Clondalkin

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October 27, 2011

SPOOKTASTIC FUN: Your guide

to Dublin’s creepiest ‘haunts’ See P4

Heartfelt tribute to local hero Flood victim, Jonesy, died helping others

Q PAUL HOSFORD clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

THE hero Garda swept away in this week’s flooding was a talented member of Clondalkin Rugby Club.

Garda Ciaran Jones was also a talented GAA player who also pulled on the Clondalkin jersey over the last three years.

The 25-year-old Garda tragically lost his life after he was swept into the Liffey near his

home as he attempted to warn fellow motorists not to cross a bridge.

Despite his star quality on the field, club chairman Alan Bracken said the 25-year-old’s humility was his outstanding trait.

“First of all, I know everyone at the club would like to pass on our sincere condolences to Ciaran’s family and friends,” said Bracken.

“It really was a tragic accident and it is not a surprise

to hear the accident happened with Jonesy going out of his way to help someone.

He wasn’t with our club for many years, but anyone who had any dealings with him couldn’t speak highly enough about him.

“Despite his talent and great personality he was an extremely humble man. He was just a genuine lad and we are very proud to have him as a part of our club,” said Bracken.

Garda Ciaran Jones played rugby for Clondalkin. Picture: Sharon Flanagan

2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27 October 2011

COUNCIL Risk of fines and dangers to public health part of seasonal campaign

Call not to dispose of waste in Halloween fires WITH just days to go before the Halloween celebrations get under way, local residents and businesses in South Dublin county have been urged not to use bonfires to dispose of household or hazardous waste.

With many people

now collecting materials for use in bonfires, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said that only someone with a waste collection permit is allowed to stockpile waste.

The agency said that breaches of waste regulations can lead to fines

of up to €3,000.

Gerard O’Leary of the EPA said: “Halloween is a fun time of year for everyone but should not be used as an excuse to burn waste.

“The EPA wants everyone to enjoy a safe and happy Halloween, so it is unfor tunate

when some people use this festive time to dispose of waste illegally.

Not an excuse “We want to remind people that Halloween should not be used as an excuse to burn waste.

Burning waste in this way contributes to over

half of all dioxin emissions in the country.

“It is important that people in South Dublin County know the dangers of burning materials such as tyres.

“Burning these and other waste materials causes the release of dioxins.

This creates a real hazard for people’s health.

“In addition, it’s illegal, and can result in prosecution by your local authority.

“People need to remember that burning household waste in your back garden, fireplace

or a waste burner can lead to a fine of up to €3,000,” he said.

Backyard burning, and unauthorised bonfires, can be reported to the local authority, as well as to the national lo-call “Dump the Dumpers” phone line at 1850 365 121.

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Chris Hanlon, Doug Lyon, Andrew Patterson, Nora Grace, Paul Tier and Gareth McSweeney with Niamh Farrell and Iwa Mikeleunaite

Opel help drive forward dreams S TAFF at Liffey Valley Opel were delighted to present a cheque for €5,000 to the Make A Wish Foundation recently, with the car dealership’s funds set to go a long way to help make dreams come true for children with a life-threatening illness, and their families.

The funds were raised in an innovative fashion, with the dealership committing to presenting €1 for every

‘Like’ it received for the cause on its Cause Campaign section on its Facebook page. In addition, Liffey Valley Opel also presented two iPad 2s to two of the campaign’s supporters, with Gillian Brown and Peter McGrath selected for the great prize. The dealership said that it was delighted to help support the worthy cause, as well as thanking the community for its support.

Gillian Brown, Paul Tier, Peter McGrath and Sharon Dagg. Pictures: Paddy Barrett

Wilbur, the Make A Wish mascot teddy bear, was happy to collect the cheque

27 October 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3

HEALTH ‘Don’t cut our payments and services’

New dry cleaner opening

Carers’ appeal to maintain support

THE Carers Association in Clondalkin has launched its pre-Budget submission for 2012, calling on the Government not to introduce further cuts to vital social welfare payments and services for Clondalkin’s family carers.

Despite being the only group who work for their social welfare payments, Clondalkin’’s family carers have experienced serious cuts to payments and services since Budget 2009.

The Association is calling on the Government to consider the cumulative effects of these cuts.

Family carers also have to survive with these cuts in a climate of increased costs in health-related services, combined with the “hidden costs of caring”, including increased

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heating costs, medical and hospital bills, transport, dietary and incontinence costs.

Cathy White, centre manager, the Carers Association, Clondalkin, said: “Family carers are being forced to make huge sacrifices, to cut back on essentials and, in some cases, to skip meals in order to make ends meet.

“Finding ways to support family carers – not to take essential payments and services away from them – is a win-win approach for the care recipient, the family carer and the public purse.

“If we stopped providing care in the morning, the cost to the State to replace this work would be almost €4 billion per annum, yet it pays about €540 million through Carers Allowances.

RETAIL: EXPANSION

Local Minister, Frances Fitzgerald (centre) joined Catherine Cox (right), The Carer’s Association, in visiting Clondalkin locals Margaret Whyte and her son, Ronan, to see first-hand the pressures carers face every day

“At the moment, this difference represents a notional benefit to the State, but, if family caring becomes economically unsustainable, it will become a real cost,” she said.

In its pre-Budget submission for 2012, entitled, If you don’t care, how can we?, The Carers Association is asking the Government for two priorities.

Firstly, to safeguard family carers from further cuts to social welfare payments and services and, secondly, to publish the National Carers Strategy, as promised in the Programme for Government.

The Carers Association is calling on the Government to fulfil this commitment before the end of 2012, and to set out realistic steps to improve the lot of family carers in relation to income supports, healthcare, training, the labour market, transport, housing and information services.

White added: “Local family carers implement the Government’s own policy of supporting care in the home. They are Ireland’s ‘invisible’workforce – many continuing to provide full-time care, in spite of their own health problems, both physical

and mental, and the lack of State support.

“Family carers work long hours, and save the State billions. We have family carers calling our centres, terrified about what this Budget will bring, and we are appealing to the Government not to implement further cuts to carer’s payments and services,” she said.

The Association’s submission is available to download at www.carersireland.com, under the Library of Documents section. The Carers Association, Clondalkin, can be contacted at Unit 3, Dolcan Mall, Tower Road, Clondalkin; telephone 01 467 0795, or email carersclondalkin@carersireland.com.

GUIDED by her star sign, Rathcoole woman Lily O’Grady chose the name Capricorn for the launderette and dr y cleaning empire she set up with her husband, John, many years ago.

Lily and John grew their business into six shops around Dublin, before deciding to sell their businesses a number of years ago.

The couple started again, with the opening of a new dry cleaners in Celbridge in January, and are opening their second store in The Mill Shopping Centre this week.

Capricorn Launderette and Dry Cleaners is looking to offer a firstclass professional washing and dry-cleaning service from a family who has been in business for many years, and are looking forward to serving the people of Clondalkin.

4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27 October 2011

SEARCH €3,000 stuffed in boxer shorts

Volunteers are caught with €45k in crack

TWO community volunteers who were caught mixing over €45,000 worth of crack cocaine have been sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison.

During a search, gardai also found almost €3,000 stuffed down one of the men’s boxer shorts.

Andrew Goonery (22) of Collinstown Grove, Clondalkin, and Darren Boylan (20) of St Mark’s Grove, Clondalkin, both pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of drugs for sale and supply at Juliet Square, St Edmunds, Palmerstown on November 20, 2009.

Garda Michelle Nolan told Ms Lisa Dempsey BL, prosecuting, that she was involved in a planned search on the flat in

Palmerstown at around 9.30pm on that date.

As gardai forced their way into the building, Gda Nolan said they witnessed Goonery throwing items off the balcony.

These objects were picked up by the gardai down below and they turned out to be a quantity of crack cocaine, two mobiles and digital weighing scales.

Flush

When they entered the third-floor flat, gardai found Darren Boyle in the kitchen where he was trying to flush more crack cocaine down the sink.

Gardai also found a toilet roll which was been used to dry the crack cocaine.

A bottle of ammonia, which is used in the preparation of the drug,

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Circuit Criminal Court

was found in a Volvo car belonging to Boylan.

Goonery was searched and €2,751 was found stuffed into his boxer shorts.

Gardai seized a little over 450 grammes of cocaine, which was given a street value of around €45,000. A list of names and numbers was also found during the raid.

Susan Doyle, from the North Clondalkin Community Development Programme, told Mr Luan O’Braonain SC, that Boylan helped out with a programme that targeted young people who were in danger of getting involved in drug use.

She said: “He would sit in with me on one-to-one meetings with young people and he spoke to them when they wouldn’t listen to me.

“He’d say to them, this is where I am, is this where you want to be?

He was very valuable.”

She added that he also helped to organise preelection community meetings, which were hosted

by Eamon Dunphy.

The chairman of Collinstown Football Club, Martin McDonagh, told Caroline Biggs SC, defending Gooner y, that he has known the father-of-three for over ten years through his

volunteer work with the local club.

Mr McDonagh said Goonery coached football to under-11s at least two nights a week and also helped run a football academy for over fives.

Ms Biggs said that Goonery had run his own car valeting business for two years and had won a Young Citizens certificates in 2005.

Judge Martin Nolan said that the men had a mid-level involvement in the drug operation and were not the owners of the drugs. He said while they had pleaded guilty they had not co-operated fully with gardai.

COURTS: HIJACKER GETS 18-MONTH SENTENCE FOR SEIZING CONTROL OF CAR

Threatened occupant with a lump hammer A MAN who hijacked a car after threatening the occupant with a lump hammer has been sentenced to 18 months.

Warren Boyle (20) of K ilcronan View, Clondalkin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to unlawfully seizing control of a car using threat or force at Cherrywood Villas, Clondalkin on May 20, 2009.

Garda Morgan Ash told Ms Cathleen Noctor BL, prosecuting, that Graham Gibbons had put his Daihatsu car up for sale and, on the night of the incident, he and a friend were sitting in the car in Clondalkin waiting to meet a potential buyer.

Gda Ash said Boyle and

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

‘Gda Ash told the court that Mr Muldoon was “afraid of his life” and both occupants got out of the car’ --------------------------

another man came up to the car and the first man asked Mr Gibbons how much he wanted for the car.

The first man then tried to pull the car door open and when Mr Gibbons made a grab for the car keys, the first man pulled a knife from his sleeve.

Boyle was holding a lump hammer at the other side of the car and told the passenger, Declan Muldoon, to “get out of the car or I’ll smash your head in”.

Gda Ash told the court that Mr Muldoon was “afraid of his life” and both occupants got out of the car. Boyle and the other man jumped into the car and drove off.

The court heard that Boyle has 15 previous convictions, which include public order offences, possession of knives, theft, and criminal damage.

Judge Yvonne Murphy sentenced him to 18 months imprisonment but suspended the final nine months.

27 October 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5

6 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27 October 2011

SCARY STUFF A Gazette guide to Halloween fun around Dublin

GHOULISHFUN Join in Airfield’s annual Halloween celebration IN Dundrum there will be a Halloween Family Fun Day on Saturday, October, between 12-4pm at Airfield. Join in Airfield’s annual Halloween celebration for all the family, an unmissable day of fun and seasonal activities to celebrate the festival of ghosts and ghoulies. There’s lots to enjoy, including a special Halloween trail, the chance to make a miniature ghost and a live ceili.

For the past two years, Airfield has asked people to come along and help build scarecrows at Hallowe’en. Now Airfield wants you to take their place!

They would like you to come along dressed as a scarecrow, with families of scarecrows particularly welcome. You can come along as any type – the more weird and wonderful the better! There will be spot prizes for the most imaginative costume in different age categories.

Price included in entry fee to the walk.

Season ticket holders come free.

It’s set to be a spooktacular time in The Haunted Forest this Halloween at Marlay Park ON Sunday, October 30, Marlay Park will be a FREE fright-fest of spooky thrills and chills for Samhain hosted by DLR Events. Families flock to Marlay Park in their Halloween costumes every year for a spooky walk through the haunted forest with ghosts and ghouls and frightful sights! The forest at Marlay Park comes alive in the night for one evening only with freaky fog, ghastly spiders and skeletons, creepy eyeballs and pumpkins, the spine chilling boat house preachers and menacing witches and demons.

Festoon lighting, sound effects and smoke make the adventure all the more exciting but this year, there will be no fireworks so the haunted forest can stay open until 9pm.

But the haunted woods are not for the faint-hearted and, in 2011, are longer and bigger with spooky characters, scary noises and eerie fog! The Haunted Woods will be open between 4pm and 9pm. Entry is FREE. The walk is approx 1.5km long and is on a path suitable for buggies/wheelchairs.

Halloween costumes are recommended, but this is an outdoor event so warm clothing is recommended.

A Spooky Walk at Corkagh Park in Clondalkin MEANWHILE, there will be another Spooky Walk at Corkagh Park, in Clondalkin, on Saturday, October 29, between 5 and 7pm. Beware of scary creatures in the woods. Prize for the best-dressed family.

For more information please contact Sports and Recreation Office, Community Services Department, South Dublin County Council 01 4149000

A Guided Trip to The Hellfire Club GUIDED Trip to The Hellfire Club Monday, October 31.

Bus Leaves from the Square Luas Stop at 5pm SHARP. Age 12+ Advance Booking Essential and is €3 per person.

Contact Alison 0868516669 / Paula 0868292443

Two walks at Halloween Horrors Walk in Turvey Park THE scream-tastic Halloween Horrors Walk in Turvey Park, in Donabate is back and scarier than ever! The spooky event takes place on Saturday, October 29 , and this year there are two walks to cater for the ever-increasing numbers for this hugely popular event.

Lurking around on the night are zombies, witches, demons, and other creepy creatures. Visitors brave enough to experience the blood-curdling walk will learn the sorrowful tale of the “Lady in White” and try catch a glimpse of her ghost which haunts the park – but we must beware her evil father, the zombie Baron, who hunts for new victims.

The OWLS Horrors Walk is suitable for young children accompanied by parents/guardians. It is a fun family occasion that finishes off around a bonfire with campfire songs and toasted marshmallows. This cost is €4 per person and fancy dress is welcomed. The first walk starts at 5.45pm, and is intended for families with younger children, and the second at 6.30pm.

Booking is essential. Contact Andrew on 087 32 999 36, or email us at info@owls.ie. Please book early or be disappointed.

Local legend believes the Devil’s Mill, known at Shackleton’s Mill today, is where Luttrell wagered the devil that he couldn’t build the mill in a day

A look at the area’s most haunted sites

Q LAURA WEBB

AS the nights get longer ghosts and ghouls from around the world get ready for another frightful night this Halloween, so the Gazette has gathered together some local scary stories to get readers ready for October 31.

The holiday that celebrates the dead has a number of different traditions associated with it, including trick or treating, bonfires and costume parties, but one thing that everyone loves about it is ghostly stories of haunted houses or places near and far. Here are some frightfully good stories from places more close to home across Dublin.

In Dublin West, the Strawberry Beds has many a story of ghosts but there is only one true villain and that is Henry Luttrell. He is said to have sold his soul to the devil, and was a member of Dublin’s most known paranormal club – The Hellfire Club.

Luttrell was a supporter of King James I of England. Once hailed a hero after fighting in the Battle of the Boyne, his life soon spiralled downwards following a wave of deceit and treachery. After his death, there were many street ballads about his string of mistresses and

build the mill in a day. To his anger, the devil placed the last stone on one of the tallest mills in Liffey Valley.

Years later, the Devil collected his debt at The Hellfire’s Club, but Luttrell – devious in his ways – tricked the Devil by pretending his shadow, cast

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‘Wearing a white, flowing dress, legend has it that she would leave the painting to wander the castle on quiet nights’ ---------------------------------------------------------

his out-of-wedlock offspring.

Doubts over his allegiance to Ireland were confirmed after he was court marshalled for treachery after given vital information about a ford on the Shannon during the Siege of Limerick.

But, connections with Patrick Sarsfield saved him.

Local legend believes the Devil’s Mill, known at Shackleton’s Mill today, is where Luttrell wagered the devil that he couldn’t

from candlelight, was the real Henry Luttrell. As the Devil grasped the shadow, Luttrell escaped. In 1717, he was shot dead. Noone was ever convicted, as there were too many people with a motive to assassinate him.

Nearer to the coast, Malahide Castle has its fair share of mysterious sightings. One such story is of the White Lady. For years, the portrait of a beautiful, unidentified lady hung in the Great Hall of the Castle. The

artist is also unknown.

Wearing a white, flowing dress, legend has it that she would leave the painting to wander the castle on quiet nights. She has been spotted by a number of people over the years and is now known as the White Lady.

Meanwhile, Cabinteely House in South Dublin was built in 1769, by Robert Nugent, Earl Clare.

The 18th-century house has been associated with some strange happenings.

It has been said that staff in the house have, over the years, encountered some ghostly experiences, with footsteps coming up a long corridor toward a room where staff were working. The footsteps stop outside the door, and when the door was opened, no one was to be seen.

No one is sure who it might be, but it’s thought it may be the gardener [of Robert Nugent], Postule who was arrested in 1798 and tortured and hanged.

27 October 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 7

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EVENT GAA stars bring famous trophy to Adamstown CC

A visit from Sam Seyona Pinto and Shariefa Hussain

HE staff and students at Adamstown Community College had plenty of reasons to be proud of Dublin’s recent winning of the All-Ireland Football Championship as teacher Kevin Nolan was part of that winning team.

He also won Man-of-the-Match. And as a special treat, Kevin, along with his teammate Paul Casey, paid the school a visit with the famous Sam Maguire trophy in hand. The hall was packed with students and staff, some wearing their Dublin jerseys, who wanted to congratulate the pair on their great victory over Kerry in the final of the All-Ireland and bringing the Sam Maguire trophy back to the capital

T

Paul Casey and Kevin Nolan with Sean, James, Anna, Tadgh and Foley

Paul with Hannah Mitchell

The Sam Maguire trophy attracted great interest from students

Paul Casey and Kevin Nolan with Sean and James Foley

27 October 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9

10 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27 October 2011

EVENT

The Laurels Pub raises €54,419 for hospital

BoDamien Long, Matt Ennis, Graham Brown, John Quinn, Derek Daly, Gerry Davis, Alan Kennedy, Matt Lysaght, Paulie Hanlon, Tony Boland and Tony Brady. Pictures: Rob Love

Pub plays their part HE Laurels Pub in Clondalkin has collected €54,419 for Our Lady’s Hospital which it has been raising money for, for the last three years in a row.

Staff and customers of the popular pub, situated in the heart of Clondalkin, all pulled together and organised various fundraising events, ranging from a charity calendar, an organised Galway-Dublin cycle, a fun 10k walk and “fighting for charity” event nights to raise vitally-needed funds for the hospital. All proceeds raised will now be used to purchase an Arthroscopic Drill and Shavers machine. This piece of equipment will allow vital keyhole surgery to be performed on children.

The Laurels has received an itemised list of priority equipment from surgeons at Our Lady’s Hospital, who say that the equipment purchased from fundraising will make a real difference.

T

Damien Long, manager of the Laurels; Frances McDevitt, Deirdre O’Mahony, staff nurse at the Childrens Hospital; Lorraine Devereux, committee member; Dennis Carty; Dave Moore, Children’s Hospital Laura McGuigan and Jennifer O’Neill

consultant and Gerry Cully, Children’s Medical Research Foundation

27 October 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 27 October 2011

GazetteNUTRITION NUTRITION A healthy Halloween LEILA JOHARI

TRICK or treat, what to eat? There is something scarier than witches and ghouls this Halloween. It is the amount of sweets and chocolate that we eat.

It’s not only children who aren’t afraid to overindulge in candies and chocolate, ninety percent of parents admit to occasionally dipping into their kiddies’ stash. Maybe this fact should scare us more than the ghosts.

Do not fear. There are ways to banish those sugar demons and have

a healthy Halloween.

Pumpkin, nuts and kale are all traditional Halloween foods that are nutritious and provide a healthy alternative at this time of feasting.

Pumpkin contains no saturated fats or cholesterol; but is a rich source of dietary fibre, monounsaturated fatty acids and anti-oxidant vitamins such as vitamins A, C and E. Vitamin A is a powerful natural anti-oxidant and is required by the body for maintaining the integrity of the skin and mucus membranes. It is also an essential vitamin

for vision not to mention an excellent source of poly-phenolic flavonoid compounds like alpha and beta carotenes. The B-complex group of vitamin-folates, niacin, pyridoxine, thiamine and pantothenic acid are also in this Halloween staple.

Pumpkin is a rich source of minerals like copper, calcium, potassium and phosphorous.

Pumpkin seeds are a healthy snack rich in zinc, which nourishes the brain. They also contain magnesium, which helps muscle, nerve, heart and bone function and help

As well as making a great Halloween decoration, pumpkin is a very healthy food

the body generate protein and absorb energy from food.

Peanuts are rich in energy and contain many health-benefiting nutrients, minerals, anti-oxidants and vitamins that are essential to optimum health. They are especially rich in mono-unsaturated fatty acids that help to lower LDL or bad choles-

terol and increase HDL or good cholesterol.

These nuts are a good source of dietary proteins with amino acids that are vital for growth and repair of body cells. They contain high quantities of minerals, such as copper, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium.

Just a handful of peanuts a day provides the recommended levels of phenolic anti-oxidants, minerals, vitamins and protein. A word of warning though – honeyroasted and sugar-coated should be avoided, choose whole and raw instead.

Finally, Kale is a dark

green leafy vegetable that is a traditional part of the Irish Halloween feast. It is used in a potato dish known as colcannon. Kale is an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K and a good source of calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and vitamin C while being low in sodium. If you really can’t fly away on your broomstick and crave something sweet, the traditional Irish Halloween fruit cake, known as Bairin Breac, is a nutritious and delicious alternative. For a healthy, happy Halloween why not try this spicy pumpkin dip? Served with warm pitta.

Spicy Pumpkin Dip 1½ cups canned pumpkin puree 1½ cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed 3 tablespoons tahini, sesame paste 1 clove garlic 1 teaspoon cayenne 1 teaspoon cumin 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons lemon juice Salt and pepper In a food processor, blend pumpkin and chickpeas until fairly smooth.

Add remaining ingredients and process until smooth, season to taste.

27 October 2011 GAZETTE 13

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GazettePETS PETS Dealing with those pesky parasites Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: WORMS ARE ONE OF THE MOST COMMON HEALTH PROBLEMS FOR DOGS

S an animal welfare education officer, I’m asked a variety of questions regarding all sorts of health queries concerning dogs, but the most popular one seems to be: “Do I need to de-worm my puppy/dog and how do I do it?”

So, with that in mind, I thought I’d focus this week’s column on worms - one of the most common health problems affecting dogs and why it’s important to try to eliminate the risk of your pet being infected by them.

Before we start, please bear in mind that parasites or worms are very common in pets; especially those who live closely with other animals or who roam freely, ie. hunting dogs, as this makes them more susceptible.

Remember many internal parasites have intermediate hosts; animals or insects that ingest or harbour the early stages of development and then pass the parasite onto your own family pet.

For example, tapeworms are carried by fleas and heartworms are carried by mosquitoes.

So, below, are your FAQs and my attempts to answer them. I hope they prove helpful.

A

It’s very important to try to eliminate the risk of your pet dog becoming infected with worms

Is it important to de-worm?

Absolutely.

What about puppies?

No matter how healthy mom is, her puppies are highly likely

to have worms.

This is normal and treatment – under veterinary advice – should be carried out from as early as two to three weeks, depending on the health status of the animal and the product being used.

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‘The most important thing to remember is to do the followup treatments’ --------------------------

Always, always, check with your vet and follow his/her advice and instructions to the letter.

When the puppy has reached three months, he should be wormed every four weeks until he reaches six months and then he can be treated as an adult.

Again, it depends on the product and health status of the animal and I recommend you seek the advice of your vet and don’t purchase so-called over-the-counter medications as they are never strong enough to eliminate all parasites.

How often do I deworm an adult dog?

Again this depends on the risk factor and status of the dog.

If, for example, you have a nice little house dog who hardly ever goes outside to play or dig and is only ever walked on a lead and never mixes with other dogs; then the risk is low and my advice would be to de-worm this animal

every three months, but, again, check with your vet.

If, however, you’ve right little rascals like mine who are forever foraging, digging, running through the woods and getting up to all sorts of activities, then prevention is better than cure and, depending on the time of year and their activities, I usually de-worm my babies once a month but never allow it go any longer than three months.

You see, every dog is different, but the most impor tant thing to remember is to do the follow-up treatments because the first dose kills the worms that are living, the second kills the ones that have developed since the previous treatment.

How do I know if my dog has worms?

Well, in order to be certain of an infestation and type, a fecal examination needs to be performed. If you feel unable to do this yourself, then visit your vet with a fresh sample of your dog’s poo. However, here are some guidelines.

• Bloated stomach – often visible in puppies that’ve been infected from their mother.

• Weakness, increased appetite, constant hunger, weight loss – all signs the parasites are stealing your pet’s vital nutrition.

• Diarrhoea – containing blood • Worms visible in vomit • Worms visible in dog’s poo • Worms visible in dog’s

fur or around his ear area – tapeworms can appear as moving segments which can dry out and resemble grains of rice.

What types of worms are likely to affect my dog?

Round Worms: The most common type of parasite. They can be life-threatening but are usually not considered as dangerous as hook worms, which can cause bloody diarrhoea and dehydration.

Very common in warm, moist weather.

Both round and hook are transmitted through poo, so it’s important to keep kennels and gardens clean.

Tape Worms: Can be transmitted through the infestation of a flea. Effective treatment is available from your vet.

Heartworms: Carried by mosquitoes. These are an insidious insult to the circulatory system, heart, lungs and kidneys of the poor infected animal.

If your dog has an active case of heartworm, I recommend an immediate visit to your vet for treatment and he/she will most likely prescribe annual blood tests.

Remember, my advice is only a guideline and is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. If you have a concern about an animal in your care, contact your vet.

For more information, log on to our website at www.dspca.ie or email me at Miriam.kerins@ dspca.ie

27 October 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC

REVIEW: NO REINVENTION BUT NO PROBLEM

Coldplay shine in the light of reflection Q ROB HEIGH

THERE are some bands that everyone loves. There are some bands everyone hates. And then there’s Coldplay.

Having divided music fans since 2000, Chris Martin’s band of brothers tend to fall into the Marmite hinterland for bands.

But anyone paying attention at this year’s Glastonbury festival on the Friday and Saturday would have seen something quite remarkable and that should give an indication of how far Coldplay have come, 50 million record sales not-

withstanding.

On the Friday, the palapable sense of expectation around U2s’ set, delayed a year after Bono’s back problems forced them to pull out, fizzled out pretty quickly when the first half-hour of their set turned into a blatant advert for the 20th anniversary of Achtung Baby (coming to a record shop near you in all formats, music lovers!) As Bono ad-libbed lyrics straight from his teleprompter, the deflation felt immense. A career-defining moment to bookend the period from their appearance at Live Aid went AWOL. Saturday saw the other

“biggest act in the world” take to the stage and, frankly, Coldplay smashed it. Ninety glorious minutes saw a confident band play their biggest hit second in the setlist, and included an unfamiliar selection of songs from an album that would not see the racks until four months later among their singalong classics. U2 should consider their time with the torch over.

And at last, those four months have rolled around, and Xylo Myloto arrives with as much fanfare as vitriol poured upon it’s graffiti-adorned sleeve.

Five albums in and they

are still doing what they do better than almost anyone else, reaching the parts few other acts can in this day and age.

The first six complete songs (the record features interludes and motifs that introduce and preface tracks) are those that anyone who saw Coldplay over the summer at one of the many festivals that they appeared at across the world will recognise.

The euphoric Hurts Like Heaven and Every Teardrop, the songs that opened and closed those performances are pop classics, while Charlie Brown and Major Minus are stand-outs in their

Coldplay have produced another collection of engaging pop classics

own right, alongside the new single, Paradise. As for the newer songs, the one that will get the most attention will undoubtedly be the collaboration with Rihanna, which is a huge grower.

To the haters, get over yourselves. No one else does Big Music this well.

Yes, there’s not much substance in the lyrics; yes, it’s unashamedly poppy; yes, it is populist and connects with huge numbers of people. So what? People enjoy what they do and while the record is a step forward, it’s not a massive one - but when it’s not broke, why fix it?

If I had one criticism, it’s the fact that the huge sound the band create live, and especially the piledriver drumming of Will Champion, is a little diminished in the mix.

They are a revelation in a live setting, and here’s hoping they make a return to the O2 soon.

16 GAZETTE 27 October 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY A special edition of the popular YSL Touche Eclat IT’S THE multitalented highlighter that hides a multitude of sins and, for this season only, the legendary Touche Eclat is to don a velvet strip in a special edition that celebrates the history and beauty of the YSL tuxedo look.

With its unique formula, Touche Eclat sculpts the features and banishes shadows in a stroke.

With just a few sweeps of the brush, the face lights up with radiance.

Launched in 1992, Touche Eclat has never fallen from its pedestal, with one sold worldwide 20 seconds.

And if you fancy discovering new ways to apply this magical pen, why not check out the Touche Eclat website, www.touche-eclat.com/en Available at YSL counters nationwide whilst stocks last. Recommended Retail Price: €35.

Give dry, irritated skin the heave-ho and go organic I’VE always been conscious of ingredients in cosmetics and skincare ranges, probably ever since I read beauty journalist Josephine Fairley’s book, Organic Beauty.

Since I’ve become a mum, I’ve become even more conscious of what I put on my skin and my family’s.

Now, one of my favourite ranges, Burt’s Bees has launched a new Sensitive Skin Care Line.

It’s an ideal range for people who tend to react to various ingredients or products, or whose skin feels tight and sensitive or, indeed, can be dry and irritated.

Burt’s Bees has launched a new Sensitive Skin Care Line

Packed full of gentle, skin-friendly and distinctly formulated with cotton extract, rice extract and aloe, the new range includes a Soap Free Facial Cleanser (€12.95) that has been clinically

proven to moisturise sensitive skin, while gently cleansing away dirt, oil and make-up without drying or causing redness or irritation.

Meanwhile, the Daily Moisturiser (€17.95) has

also been designed to leave your complexion nourished and protected.

Other products include a lightweight Eye Cream (€17.95) and Night Cream (€17.95).

All products from the sensitive range are soapfree and fragrance-free.

Burt’s Bees new Sensitive Skin Care Line is available from pharmacies and health stores nationwide.

27 October 2011 GAZETTE 17

Edited by Dawn Love

Let your complexion glow this winter with Karora THE days of slathering yourself in primitive fake tanning creams are long gone and, thankfully, many of the products now on the market leave you with a healthy, glowing complexion rather than the tangerine shade of old.

Natural

One of the latest creams to come on the market is Irish brand Karora’s organic Gradual Bronzing Moisturiser with Barrier Cream.

Combining leading-edge skincare with advanced tanning ingredients, this delicious new cream will leave you with a natural golden radiance, while protecting your face

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against the cold and windy Irish winter.

Formulated for all skin types, Karora’s Gradual Bronzing Moisturiser has an array of special ingredients, including jojoba oil to guard and protect the skin against environmental stress and it is rich in natural nutrients.

Meanwhile, Karora’s signature ingredient, argan oil, has a naturally high concentration of Vitamin E and essential fatty acids, which alleviate dry skin and rough patches.

Argan is rapidly absorbed by the skin and provides a high-level of balanced moisturisation to help keep your skin

protected, energised and glowing. With advanced organic tanning ingredients, it develops over one to two applications per week.

Verdict

My verdict? Well, as a mum of a 17-monthold toddler who had a bad dose of teething last week, I looked like I had a month’s sleep after just one application. Definitely one for the Christmas stocking this year!

Karora is available at Unicare, McCabes, Sam McCauleys and Independent Pharmacies nationwide, or you can shop online at karoracosmetics.com

One of the latest creams to come on the market is Irish brand Karora’s organic Gradual Bronzing Moisturiser with Barrier Cream

18 GAZETTE 27 October 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS

RoadSigns Road Signs IN RECESSION, SUPER RICH BUY A ROLLS: SUPER rich people across the world are investing in Rolls-Royce cars as a means of beating a possible global recession caused by currency fluctuations.

The BMW-owned luxury British car brand has reported full order books. The company is operating three production shifts to meet demand, according to the company CEO Torsten MuellerOetvoes, in an interview with Automotive News Europe.

“The Rolls-Royce brand holds its value.

We represent a valuable long-term asset, particularly in times of uncertain investment opportunities,” Mueller-Oetvoes said.

Peugeot’s 508 brings

MICHAEL MORONEY

gives his view on the new, spacious Peugeot 508 SW EUGEOT’S new 508 is a spacious and solid looking car. The car has been designed as a purpose-built estate, and that gives it a presence and standing on the road that’s volumes ahead of the previous 407 model.

The comfort levels are good and there’s plenty of space on board, from the large boot to the rear seats. The car has a solid, functional feel to it that was made special by the

P The new estate version of the Peugeot 508 called the SW has great looks, good economy and reasonable pulling towing power, with an entry price of €30,600

extra features included in the test car.

The inside is made feel more airy with the panoramic sunroof that runs the length of the car, well almost. This is a standard feature as the car is available with the Active specification as the entry level.

This has an electrically operated curtain on the inside if the high light gets too much for you.

That’s not likely to happen between now and

27 October 2011 GAZETTE 19

style in SW format

next May, so I opted to keep it open for much of the test drive.

Sometimes it’s the little things that attract me to a car. The bits that you take for granted include good comfort, economy and road-holding where you never feel nervous and they are a feature of this Peugeot 508 SW. Then there are the extras and, for me, a coffee cup holder is a must, as I do a lot of driving each week. And there are two on the dash of the Peugeot 508, which fold out of the way when not in use. And they are mounted high enough that you are not bending down to find that cup.

Peugeot offers two engine choices for the car. I had the bigger 2.0litre turbo-diesel version

SPECS: PEUGEOT 508 SW 2.0 TDI

Top speed: 210 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 10.1 sec Economy: 20 km/litre (5.0 l/100km) CO2 emissions: 125g/km Road Tax Band: B (€156) Euro NCAP Rating: 5 Stars (2011) Warranty: 2 years Entry Price: €30,600

on the road for a recent test drive.

There is a difference in power and pace from the bigger engine version, which adds about a little less than €2,000 extra to the price. Opting for the bigger engine gives significantly more power and torque without much loss in fuel economy.

Both cars are within

Band B for annual road tax purposes, so equally competitive to run. That’s why the 2.0-litre version had to be my choice.

This is a big car, weighing in at 1.6 tonnes before the load, so the extra engine power allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100km/hr in just 10.3 seconds. That’s over 10% faster than the small 1.6litre engine version.

It’s also heavier than the 2.0-litre Ford Mondeo estate and the Toyota Avensis estate and it’s faster and more economical than both. The economy figure for this big car is 20 km/litre (5.0 l/100km).

The Peugeot 508 SW has a 72-litre capacity fuel tank and should give well over 1,200km on a full tank. That’s what we have now come to expect as

fuel economy barriers are shattered with each new model in a range.

I didn’t get the rated economy figures – I came in somewhere closer to 15% more, but the car still had the capacity to cover 1,200km before a re-fill.

Volkswagen’s Passat presents a different challenge and it’s the one that Peugeot was aiming at. With its BlueMotion technology the Passat 2.0 TDi is heavier, more economical and faster than the equivalent engine Peugeot 508 estate.

There will be a difference in price, even if the entry-level Passat looks attractive. The Peugeot deal is better with the entry-level 508 packed with features for an entry price of €30,600, before delivery charges.

The kit on the car is impressive. It includes rear parking aid, automatic wipers and headlamps and new-style electric child locks. The Bluetooth connection was easy and very effective.

The car comes with decent size, 17-inch alloy wheels and there’s even a full-size spare, which in the case of the 508 seems to have no detrimental impact on the car’s weight and CO2 rating. The hillassist system is easy to use and effective, without being too obvious or a challenge.

The car has achieved a five-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating this year and that’s due to the driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags fitted. It also comes with stability control, traction control,

emergency brake assist and an electronic brake force distribution system for good road handling in difficult situations.

In the estate form, this car is particularly impressive and different. My personal preference is that the rear-end design of the estate is better matched to the front end, giving an overall better looking car than in saloon format.

The Peugeot 508 is not on the road long enough to judge its reliability performance. The 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine has lots of road experience to be as reliable as it is economical.

The 508 SW is a solid and good-looking car, where the small things are as important as the impressive overall package.

20 GAZETTE 27 October 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY ATHBOY: FOUR-BEDROOM ACCOMMODATION IN MEATH FOR €180,000

Good-priced living at Castlelawns

Number 36, Wilson Road, Mount Merrion is on the market for €540,000

MOUNT MERRION: FOURBEDROOM BUNGALOW

A Merrion mansion in Wilson Road HASSETT & Fitzsimons are bringing number 36, Wilson Road, Mount Merrion, Dublin 4, a spacious four-bedroom bungalow, to the market for the asking price of €540,000.

Set in a sought-after residential area close to Belfield University, the property comprises three reception rooms, sitting and living rooms, kitchen, four bedrooms and a garage.

The accommodation comprises a porch with coloured leaded lights, which leads to an inner and outer hell with modern white wood panelling.

The sitting room features a white marble gas fireplace, and has sliding doors which lead to an open-plan dining room and kitchen.

The kitchen is well-appointed and contains an electric oven and gas hob, an extractor fan, dishwasher and fridge. The utility room contains a washing machine, dryer and freezer.

The living room contains double doors to raised decking in the rear garden.

The buildings contain built-in units, and two are contained in the attic conversion in the property which is accessed by a staircase.

Number 36, Wilson Road has a mature landscaped front garden with parking for up to five cars. The property also has a garage, and has a side entrance to the rear garden.

The rear garden features a garden shed, a raised decking area, a sizable area of rear decking and an equally large lawned area.

Viewing is strictly by appointment with Hassett & Fitzsimons. For more information, see www.hassettandfitzsimons.ie or e-mail info@hassettandfitzsimons.ie.

CARTY Estate Agents in Trip are bringing 4B Castlelawns in Athboy, County Meath, a modern red-brick-fronted detached dormer bungalow with detached garage to the market for the attractive price of €180,000.

Situated in a small residential development, which is within walking distance of the town of Athboy, number 4B, Castlelawns, was constructed to a very high standard and has been maintained in e xc e l l e n t c o n d i t i o n throughout and would make an ideal family home.

The accommodation comprises entrance

hall, a lounge with open-plan dining area, a kitchen with dining area, four bedrooms, of which the master is en suite, and two bathrooms, situated on each level of the property.

T he proper ty also benefits from a detached garage with utility area.

Particular features of 4B Castlelawns include PVC double-glazed windows, oil-fired radiator central heating, as well as not being overlooked to the rear. The property is approached by a tarmac driveway with lawns to the front and rear.

There is also a patio area to the rear. The property also features a large, detached garage

Number 4B, Castlelawns, is on the market for €180,000

plumbed for washing machine.

Athboy has an excellent range of amenities and services. For the commuter there is easy access to the new M3 motorway and a regu-

lar daily bus service to Dublin City Centre.

Number 4B, Castlelawns, would provide a perfect family home which is ready for immediate occupation and viewing is strictly

by appointment only.

To arrange a viewing, contact Carty Estate Agents on 046-9486860, or email cartyproperty@eircom.net.

For more information, see www.carty.ie

MALAHIDE: FOUR BEDROOM SEMI-DETATCHED HOME FOR €495,000

Home on the range high on Texas Lane PROPERTY Team Noel Kelly Auctioneers are bringing number 2, Texas Lane, Chalfont in Malahide, a four-bedroom semi-detached family home offering bright generously proportioned and a flexible layout, to the market for €495,000.

The property, which extends to c 1,650 sq ft, has been extended throughout and is situated in a much soughtafter location.

The accommodation comprises an entrance hall, a guest WC with ceramic tiled floor, mirror, understairs storage, accessories, WC and WHB. The property features a garden conversion wth timber f looring.

There are two reception rooms which are conjoined by double doors, and the larger

is an extended dining room or tv room, featuring sliding doors to rear garden, and recessed lights.

There is an extended kitchen and breakfast area, which contain fitted wall and floor units, and all electrical appliances are included. The utility room also has all electrical appliances included.

The landing at the top of the stairwell allows access to the attic and has a hot press.

The four bedrooms in the proper ty are upstairs, all of which feature timber floors, and the main bedrooms have built-in wardrobes.

The master bathroom has a ceramic tiled floor, tiled walls, w.c, w.h.b, Triton T90i shower, accessories.

The front of the prop-

erty has a cobblelock drive for three cars, and a side entrance to the rear garden.

The garden features a deck area, a timber garden shed, and is fully walled.

The property is within walking distance of all amenities, including Malahide village and DART station, and is located byside Malahide estuary.

Viewing is by appointment, which can be arranged with Property Team Noel Kelly Auctioneers’ representative, Darren Kelly on 01 8462752.

Number 2, Texas lane, Chalfont, Malahide is on the market for €495,000

27 October 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Sonja Ewen, Organiser of Marlay Craft Fair

Crafting very high standards for fair

THIS year, the Marlay Craft Fair is celebrating its 10th birthday. Originally the brainchild of Valerie McGurdy, one of the Marlay Craft Courtyard’s chief go-doers, organiser Sonja Ewen tells the Gazette a little about the history of the event.

“To start out with, it was a very small affair, where the Craft Courtyard studios invited their regular customers to view their works before Christmas. They would have served up mulled wine and mince pies to add to the festive cheer. This kind of snowballed when it was decided to bring in a range of other craftspeople that were not based in the courtyard.

“When I moved to the Courtyard as a full-time jeweller in about 2003, I was keen to help out with the fair, actually I think it was a given, I just had to help out. It was all hands on deck,” she says.

“Times have changed; there are fewer of us still surviving on craft alone; Marlay Ceramics and I have both had to find other sources of income with this new economic climate in Ireland.

“But, true to my heart is to keep Marlay Craft Fair running as a makers’ craft fair.

“What is fantastic about the fair is that it now has a reputation of being a ‘high-standard craft-makers’ fair.

Every year we take on a new charity, we ask for a small entrance fee of €2.50 and this enables us to support the charity.”

For more information, contact Sonja on 087 675 33 58 or visit the website www.MarlayCraftFair.com Marlay Craft Fair November 25-27, 2011.

ily, so I think I always had an idea to work as a crafts person of some sort.

Q: What was your first job?

A: My first job as a student was

ounce during the last weeks. I was told over four years ago to buy the yellow metal then – what is your view in 2011 ? Pauline - Templeogue A - James Goldsmith once quipped “When you see a bandwagon, it’s too late” – but the statistics about gold are both startling and alarming. In 1980, gold reached an all-time high price of $850 per troy ounce (slightly lighter than our own avoirdupois ounce) BUT it took 27 years to return to this high of € 850 only four years ago in 2007.

Add inflation to the 1980 price, and you are looking at a more realistic value of over $2,500. At the current price - an increase of over 107% in those four years since 2007 - 2 lbs of gold will cost you just short of €40,000 ... a lot of money for a small amount of metal.

JP Morgan and Merrill Lynch, however, came out in recent weeks to predict gold WILL reach the $2,500 price before the year end. But more important than price is tradability. The reason why gold prices are surging ahead is the market volatility.

Only when governments, banking, stockmarkets and property regain confidence will we see a normalisation in gold prices.

Originally, all Bank of England notes for instance were backed by gold bullion in their mint –

tive easing i.e. printing your own money, among other things put paid to that.

Marlay Craft Fair at about the same time.

Jedward?

A: Oh jeepers, poor David

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: What’s good about organis-

hasn’t had the best time of it recently with the presidential saga, and thinking back to Jedward and the last Eurovision just makes me laugh – have you ever seen such unreleased energy just busting to get out…

ing the Marlay Craft Fair is being able to keep it as a proper craft fair.

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

A: I need to be able to delegate

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: I can’t remember, but I

in the running of the fair. This year, Des Keaney is my righthand man and there are things that he can do much better than I can, and vice versa. so I don’t have any issues just handing stuff over to him

Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed?

A: Yes, I worked as a secretary for a while and hated it.

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: I moved into the Marlay Craft Courtyard in approximately 2003, and was roped into assisting Valerie McGurdy to organise the running of

“I

promise to pay the bearer the sum of…” Quanta-

Sonja Ewen, Organiser of Marlay Craft Fair

in McCullough’s Department Store of Dun Laoghaire, the old-fashioned style shop.

saved like mad to buy a canoe.

There used to be a little sports shop in Blackrock called Venture Sports, I think it was.

I managed to scrape enough money for that boat. I loved it.

ALL THAT GLITTERS IS NOT GOLD…. OR IS IT ?

Q – Gold prices reached over $1,760 per troy

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

A: I come from a creative fam-

THE ANSWERS TO ALL OF YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

Q: What sport can you play?

A: I’m a sea kayaker, so playing in the waves is my game.

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

A: I love all sorts of music, so play lots of varied sorts. We don’t have a TV, but love to watch the odd replay on the computer.

Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: iPod/iPad “món” if I were so lucky, haven’t made it to that plateau yet, I’m working on it though!!

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: I like to keep tabs on the Whale and Dolphin society.

They get continuous listings of sightings of whales and dolphins around the coast of Ireland – fascinating stuff.

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: I do have a secret shoe fettish. I could always buy shoes, needed or not, in fact, suitable or not, it never really matters.

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Ha! That’s not fair! Maybe I

Peter Schiff is a major precious metals analyst in New York (regularly on CNBC TV) and has predicted the price will go to $5,000 per troy ounce.

should have read all the questions first!!

Not sure that I agree with him, but I do think that

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Well the dream job would

have about 10% exposure to this commodity. The

have to be the one that would have lots of time off and that would pay well enough, so that when it was time off, you’d have enough money to be able to go and do something.

(exchange traded funds – the cheapest way on

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: I like the idea of pootling

cate programme ? With this latter option, your

around in a camper van with no fixed agenda and no time restraints and there would have to be nice places to go and eat out and good scenery. I’ll send you a postcard when I find out where it is.

government (the only government to give such a

if you have a fairly sizeable portfolio, you should decision though to make is what form you buy the precious metal – mine shares, Gold funds the stock market) krugerrand – the world’s first one ounce gold bullion coin, brought to market in 1967 and costing up to $ 2,000 each currently – and similar style coins like gold sovereigns etc, or through the innovative Perth Mint Gold Certifigold bullion is stored in the Perth Mint in Australia, guaranteed by the AAA-rated Western Australian guarantee) and you receive a certificate that you can redeem at any time rather than hold the bullion, saving security problems.

Email me for details of this or any gold issues you may have.

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

A: Well, maybe that’ll be when

jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at

I’ll go off pootling in that camper van.

Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing

Contact John with your money questions at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the director of Money Doctor

22 GAZETTE 27 October 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel The Cliffs of Moher in County Clare

Take in the wonder of the Cliffs of Moher and explore the West ONE of our very own tourist hot spots is on the shortlist as one of the new Seven Wonders of Nature competition.

The Cliffs of Moher are in the final 28, which is hardly surprising given the magnificence of this landscape in County Clare. The Cliffs are 320 million years old and are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction, with almost 100 million visitors every year. The reasons for the popularity are manifold, some visitors flock to see a Special Protected Area for seabirds, as the Cliffs are home to over 30,000 nesting pairs each year, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, and kittiwakes and makes for a bird watcher’s paradise. However, for most, it is the striking scenery where nature, history and geology merge.

To vote for the Cliffs inclusion, log onto www. new7wonders.com or Text MOHER 53131 (€0.30C) to vote for their inclusion in the New 7 Wonders of Nature. For more information on inspirational places to visit and great value holidays check out www.discoverireland.ie

D4 Berkeley offers a variety of special offers for theatre, sport and concert goers

QUICK GETAWAY: A STYLISH NIGHT AT D4 BERKELEY

Enjoying the city you’re living in LAURA WEBB

IT HAD been a few months since my partner and I had taken a city break to let loose and leave the responsibilities of parenthood behind with the grandparents. When thinking about where to go, we decided we wanted to do something different and enjoy a city we both love – Dublin.

Even though we live in the suburbs and going out usually only means a taxi into town, it can often be an expensive round trip, so we thought we would stay in a city hotel, as there are some amazing deals around at the moment.

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

‘Although we weren’t far from home it was still a great mini-break and it actually made us appreciate what Dublin has on offer’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I had tickets to Mamma Mia at the Grand Canal Theatre and we thought we could stay at the D4 Berkeley.

Stylish

Our room was both spacious and stylish, and with a couple of hours to spare before dinner time, we headed out to see what the hotel’s location had to offer. Just a five minute walk from the RDS and located just minutes from the Aviva

stadium, the hotel is ideal for anyone going to watch a match, concert, exhibition or show.

We walked back just in time for dinner and were greeted by the lovely restaurant manager, Oscar, and the waiting staff in Berkeley Brasserie were just as friendly. The live piano added to the relaxed atmosphere of the contemporary restaurant.

For starters, I ordered crispy calamari with a

tomato and chilli sauce.

Johnny went for soupof-the-day and for his main, Irish grilled fillet steak, served with home cut chips, onion rings and peppercorn sauce.

I chose the chicken supreme with wilted spinach, sundried tomato and orzo pasta. Describing his meal Johnny said it ticked all the boxes for flavour, portion size and affordability, as did mine.

We headed off to the Grand Canal Theatre

to see the show and enjoy the many smashhit songs from Abba.

Even though he’s not a fan, Johnny reluctantly agreed he enjoyed it.

The next morning. we headed to the Berkeley Brasserie, which was also delicious.

Although we weren’t far from home, it was still a great a mini-break and it actually made us appreciate what Dublin has on offer.

D4 Berkeley offers a variety of special deals for theatre, sport and concert goers, which are available to see online at www.d4berkeley.ie or by phoning the reservation team at 01- 4373444.

27 October 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

HALLOWEEN: HAUNTED CASTLES AND STREETS

Travel B ri e fs Go ghost hunting in

haunting Scotland FANS of ghouls and ghosts should make their way to Scotland this Halloween. With haunted castles, churches and streets, there are few countries with a more fascinating or spookier history than Scotland.

Fans of the Da Vinci Code will be captivated

by Rosslyn Chapel, the church built for the Sinclair Family in the 15th century. Ghostly flames apparently flicker in the burial vault when one of the Sinclairs is about to die and an apparition of the apprentice who carved the famous Apprentice Pillar and was murdered by his teachers, can sometimes be seen or heard.

With a long and bloody history, Edinburgh Castle is said to be home to many spirits, including that of a headless drummer boy. Rumour has it, that the appearance of

Rosslyn Chapel

the ghostly drummer boy is a warning that the castle is about to be besieged and was first seen in 1650, before Oliver Cromwell and his English army attacked.

Believed to be the most haunted place in Edinburgh, The Royal Mile as it is known, is the street leading from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of

Holyroodhouse. Taking a stroll down this street you may be in for a few surprises as No.1 Mary Kings’s Close, which was bricked up during an outbreak of the plague, is said to be haunted by the spirit of a young girl.

Cruden Bay, located on the Aberdeenshire coast, may seem like a pleasant looking fishing village,

but you may be surprised to know that, in the 19th century, it was the holiday haunt of Bram Stoker.

The ruins of Slains Castle, which drape down from the headland inspired Stoker’s vision of Count Dracula’s Castle.

The Kilmarnock Arms Inn, where Stoker stayed in 1895, is still there for those brave enough to pay a visit.

On the west coast of Scotland, close to the town of Oban, lies Dunstaffnage Castle. The castle is said to be haunted by a lady dressed in green, who walks the ramparts when events are about to unfold for the castle owners. When she is smiling it said that good fortune awaits but if she is weeping, trouble lies ahead.

The castle is open daily, but visiting hours are restricted in the winter.

For more details www. visitscotland/surprise

Travelling Far and Away FOR anyone considering a long-haul trip, Thomas Cook Ireland’s newly launched Far and Away brochure is a must.

The range covers traditional package holidays, escorted tours to exotic destinations and far-flung cruises.

Customers can also tailor their holidays to suit their preferences and schedules.

Though January may be months away, Irish Ferries has already welcomed in the New Year with the announcement that their reservations system has been opened for 2012 bookings on their services to France.

To get bookings off to a quick start and encourage those anxious to secure preferred sailing dates and choice of cabin accommodation, the company is offering a three-tiered incentives package, beginning with an early booking discount of 10% off all fares booked before December 15.

The second offer is the chance to secure one’s booking on payment of a low €100 non-refundable deposit with the balance payable six weeks before departure – one that contrasts with others who seek payment in full or a more significant deposit at time of booking.

Finally, repeated again, next year is the offer of a free trip to Britain for a car plus two passengers for all motorist return bookings to France during June, July and August.

For bookings and information, visit www.irishferries.ie or call 0818 300 400.

Scandinavian Airlines offering bargain fares to Bangkok and all this exotic city has to offer SCANDINAVIAN Airlines have some bargain fares to Bangkok at the moment.

Bangkok is fantastic for shopping, nightlife, restaurants and culture and is a great place to stop off before heading to the luxury of the tourist resorts.

SAS can offer quick connections through Copenhagen airport where you only need 45 minutes to connect. For Irish travellers travelling to Bangkok, it is normally only a 15-metre walk from gate to gate to change plane in Copenhagen Airport. Fly from Dublin to Bangkok from as little as €799 return, including all taxes and charges.

Book before November 1, 2011 to secure this special fare. Go to www. flysas.ie for more details.

Concorde Travel is offering great deals to the Portuguese capital of Lisbon for a great city break

Feature

Cuba, Mexico, Dominican Republic, India (Goa), Gambia, Jamaica and Florida all feature strongly in the new Far and Away brochure.

As Thomas Cook can avail of its own accommodation and charters from the UK to these destinations, customers can find more competitive

Irish Ferries is welcoming the New Year with great offers, so book your 2012 reservation early

A Mexican beach and (inset) Old Havana in Cuba

and comprehensive pricing. Eleven nights in the four-star Laico Atlantic in Banjul Beach in Gambia next March is available

all-inclusive from just €849, while 14 nights over Christmas and New Year in Goa in the threestar Colonia Santa Maria

at Baga Beach, also all inclusive, is on offer for €1,789, departing December 20. (Prices are from UK airports).

ARGUABLY one of the nicest European capitals, Lisbon is a city that captures the imagination of the visitor with its magnificent architecture, reminiscent of a glorious maritime past as well as the majestic Tagus River and the dominant Castelo de San Jorge. Exploring the city on foot is a delight – there is something around every corner that will surprise you. Lisbon is a lively city boasting bars, clubs and cafes, where you can simply relax and enjoy a powerful Portuguese-style coffee or party all night long in some of the trendiest clubs.

Concorde Travel is offering great deals to the Portuguese capital this winter from only €349. Stay three nights on a B&B basis at the three-star Hotel Evidência Tejo, from €349, four-star Tivoli Jardim, from €419, and five-star Tivoli Lisboa, from €499.

Visit www.concordetravel.ie to book your city break to Lisbon today.

24 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27 October 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Snow Play

CHILDREN aged from three to seven will be delighted with this show, which tells of how snow-hating Mr Green returns from his Christmas holidays only to find that Mr White has moved in, and covered everything with snow! Children will help to make a giant snowman, have a snowball fight and more in this highly-interactive production. Snow Play takes place on at 2pm and 4pm on Saturday, October 29, and at 2pm on Sunday, October 30, with tickets priced at €8 for children, and €10 for adults.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 One Act Festival

THEATRE lovers are in for a treat, thanks to the Mill Theatre’s quick-moving festival that will present eight plays across two nights. Actors, directors and drama enthusiasts from all across the country will be found at the theatre, as an eclectic range of productions whirl through their paces. Following the plays’ productions, adjudicator Tom Byrne will provide an engaging analysis. For full details of the plays, which take place from 7pm on Friday, October 27 and Saturday, October 28, see www.milltheatre.ie.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 My Way

GARVAN Gallagher’s commendable exhibition examines the “invisible” status of older citizens, with a diverse range of work examing the status and self-image of our elders.

Whether personal texts, short films, or even fashion shoots replacing younger models with more mature citizens, My Way is an excellent, diverse project underlining how valuable our “invisible” citizens are. My Way runs at Driaocht’s ground floor gallery until Saturday, November 5.

Mitch Emhoff (Matt Damon) can’t quite take in the news from a doctor that his healthy wife, Beth (Gwynneth Paltrow) has suddenly died from a mysterious new virus, with a mass outbreak killing thousands of people around the world in this week’s film, Contagion

Germinating ideas What if ... a new, deadly virus sprang up all around the world? The prognosis is poor in this interesting new film Q KATE CROWLEY

NOW is the winter of our discontent most keenly felt ... largely through red noses, hoarse throats and a thousand rasping coughs, it would seem, as the emaciated Flu crow has slowly but surely flapped its way back to Ireland’s shores for its annual winter sojourn.

Thanks to this unwanted visitor, all around the Crowley household, a hundred flu sufferers seem to be blearily making their way through the streets, while Mr Crowley has a touch of Man Flu, which, he tells me, is “a thousand times worse than ordinary flu” (yet which doesn’t seem to stop him from eating chocolate biscuits and watching football).

However, as unpleasant as the flu is for those battling it – such as yours truly, still croaking her way through a lingering two-week chest infection

FILM OF THE WEEK: Contagion +++ (12A) 106 mins Director: Steven Soderbergh Starring: Gwyneth Paltrow, Matt Damon, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Laurence Fishburne

OUR VERDICT: LOTS of stars with lots of storylines, yet one overall plot ... While the world seems to have mostly forgotten the perils and fears over Swine Flu and Bird Flu, here comes a film to play on the fears of those recent pandemics. Slow-moving, and perhaps constrained by being a film about, well, deadly germs, it’s still an interesting tale that director Soderbergh helms well enough ...

– for most, it’s not the end of the world.

No, the end of the world is, instead, the underlying theme of this week’s film, which takes the flu theme and runs with it to a much more frightening, logical outcome.

In Contagion, several plotlines converge as a business exec (Paltrow) returns from a business trip to Hong Kong with a bad dose of jet lag.

That’s “jet lag” as in “she’ll be dead within two days of a mysterious new virus, folks” jet lag, of the kind that most travellers would rather avoid.

Exit Paltrow, leaving bemused hubby (Damon) to soldier on, despite the fact that their family isn’t quite through the worst of the horror just yet ...

Of course, his wife’s death is just one of many deaths, as it’s obvious that a deadly pandemic is spreading across the world at frightning speed, with equally frightening mortality rates.

Although, as with any virus and contagion, there are plenty of people who are immune – such as Damon’s character – most people aren’t, and, without an antidote, it looks

like goodnight, Seattle, for most of humanity.

For those readers shouting at my review: “Science will save us!”, that sounds like an appropriate time to send in the clow- err, scientists, in the forms of Winslet and Fishburne.

That almost sounds like a double act, but there’s nothing amusing about their characters as, working in different ways, they’re on a race against time to trace the virus back to Patient X – the first recorded victim – and then, with a bit of luck, figure out where the infection came from, and thus possibly come up with an antidote.

However, all of this takes time, and, as every passing day exponentially increases the pandemic’s infection – and consequent sudden mortality – rates around the world, there’s a desperate race against time to get ahead of the virus’ deadly infec-

tion, and stop the global contagion.

Unfortunately, quite apart from the dangers of the virus itself, the characters are also faced with problems posed by people, whether that’s nefarious journalists (Law) or the bureaucracies of various political and medical systems.

With social order rapidly collapsing all over the world, and with governments resorting to desperate measures to quarantine people, the race is on to find a cure ...

As usual, director Soderbergh has created an unconventional tale, with lots of Hollywood stars and stalwarts fighting for screen time in an occasionally busy story.

Not a film for the germwary, it’s a thoughtful tale that shows that, maybe, just maybe, there are worse things than the flu to worry about. Now, Man Flu, that’s a thousand times worse, I hear ...

27 October 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING

More Final Fantasy XIII-2 facts emerge SHANE DILLON

THE hit Playstation (and, more latterly, also available on the XBox 360) Final Fantasy franchise is set for another stab at the previous cross-platform title in the series, Final Fantasy XIII. In a similar manner to the last major title I reviewed, last week (Dead Rising 2: Off The Record), Final Fantasy XIII-2 is a largely similar, but rejigged, version of its predecessor title, FFXIII. However, much as twins may appear to be quite similar at first sight – and I say that as a twin, myself – there are several notable differences between the two, making XIII-2 similar, but yet quite different to, its predessor, XIII. The Final Fantasy series of games have had a long and illustrious past on a number of platforms, yet, arguably, found their greatest success on Sony’s PlayStation 2 – at least here in the West – while the franchise has remained a key part of Sony’s PlayStation brand.

Here, “Final” is something of a misnomer, as the series has been spun out through many titles that far exceed the numerical titles in the series, with characters from the franchise popping up in everything from farming games to dance titles, beat-em-ups to platformers, and more.

However, at heart, the Final Fantasy series remains a fundamentally structured role-playing game, typically created with strong undercurrents of Japanese culture, gaming memes, and ideas that seem unique to the series, with regular recurring themes of personal

Bytesandpieces It’s a case of so four-za, so good IN ONE of the most predictable gaming events of the year, Forza Motorsport 4 – or Forza 4, for short – recently roared straight to the top of the charts, with racing and motoring fans driving the XBox 360-exclusive title straight to the top.

For those who like exquisitely-modelled cars, stunning landscapes, top-notch graphics, a Top Gear association (with Clarkson on voiceover duties) and an awfully big game to play around with – and that’s an awful lot of gamers – it’s hard to see any other racers appearing in the rear mirror in the near future, with Forza 4 set to hold pole position in the racing genre for quite some time.

Forza 4 certainly sets a noticeably-high benchmark in graphics on current platforms

A typically exotic and stylish branding design for Final Fantasy XIII-2, with strong artwork helping shape the series

strife, responsibility, duty and honour appealing to a global audience.

With its superb designs, always evolving gameplay and game mechanics, striking music and a generally strong direction, it’s been no surprise that, today, the “Final” franchise is a key PlayStation brand, with Microsof t also coming on board for the release of previous title in the series, Final Fantasy XIII. Curiously, despite

being a game that was specifically developed for, and aimed at engaging Western audiences, rather than, debatably, a core Japanese and cult American fanbase, FFXIII was largely greeted with a lukewarm critical reception, and not especially notable sales figures.

Still, early next year, a “remodelled” version of FFXIII – neatly called FFXIII-2 – will be released, set in the same world as its pred-

ecessor, and with many of the same characters, yet with a new storyline, new characters, and new gameplay mechanics – all with the hope for the developer, Squaresoft, to create greater respect for (and higher sales figures) for an experimental title that was, perhaps, a little overlooked once released.

Collectors’s edition packs will include all of the usual items, ranging from CDs of the game music, to t-shirts, art

books, special cases and more, creating releases to take up plenty of space on gamers’ shelves – and leave plenty of corresponding space in their wallets, too.

It’s an interesting development, seeing game companies take a “Take Two” attitude towards titles that didn’t quite hit expectations on release, but which were perfectly decent. If this sequel, of sorts, does well, perhaps it won’t be the final case of such rejigged releases.

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

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26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27 October 2011

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27 October 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

OCTOBER STARS:

Nominations for Dublin Sports Stars are announced Page 29

TENNIS: SWORDS STAR HITTING THE HEIGHTS ON THE ITF FUTURES TOUR IN EUROPE

Cluskey makes fifth final out of six competitions sport@gazettegroup.com

JAMES Cluskey continued his superb recent run of form last week on the ITF Futures tour as he reached the final of the doubles at the Le RocheSur-Yon F19 event in France.

It was his fifth final in his last six outings since mid-September – the other seeing him make the semi-final – marking one of the his best runs on the circuit.

On Sunday, playing with South African Jean Anderson, he was denied the title in a super-set by home-town pair Jeremy Blandin and Gleb Sakharov.

It was a tight game, losing the first set on a tiebreak before bouncing back to claim the second 6-3. But the super-set was lost ten points to seven, leaving the Swords’ man to have to be content with a third runners-up medal in October.

In the other competition played this month, though, Cluskey and Andersen claimed the F16 Futures title in Forbach, beating Germany’s Sebastian Fitz and Russia’s Vitaliy Kachanovskiy.

Again, the final was decided on a super-set as the Irishman was part of a superb comeback having fallen a set down, 7-5.

He and Andersen snagged the second in comprehensive fashion with a 6-1 success before

Tennis ace James Cluskey maintained his fine run of form, reaching another final last week in France

closing out the deciding game 10-3.

It continues a brilliant run of form on the hard court and carpets of France, taking in an F18 Futures final in St Dizier, Mulhouse and Nevers as

well as that semi-final in Brusoporto, Italy.

It is a superb return to form following a summer in which Cluskey was part of the Irish Davis Cup side, and also reached the final of the Irish Open.

In the wake of that competition, the Swords LTC man has been quiet in August and September, but this sustained period abroad has been a very fruitful one.

Elsewhere, former St

Andrew’s student Amy Bowtell earned a place in the women’s singles main draw at the AEGON GB Pro Series Glasgow after defeating number three seeded Michaela Honcova (SVK) in Scotland.

28 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27 October 2011

GazetteSport Sport

Football All-Stars Bernard Brogan, Paul Flynn, Michael Darragh MacAuley, Kevin Nolan, Stephen Cluxton and Alan Brogan, front right, with Hurlers of the Year, Gary Maguire and Liam Rushe

Kilmacud’s Michael Darragh MacAuley

Paul Flynn and Bernard Brogan on the red carpet

All-Stars 2011 Super Stars saluted at gala night HE immense achievements of the Dublin senior football and hurling teams in 2011 was recognised at the National Convention Centre when a total of eight players collected their GAA GPA All-Star awards last weekend.

Footballers Bernard Brogan, Paul Flynn, Michael Darragh MacAuley, Kevin Nolan, Stephen Cluxton and Alan Brogan, and hurlers Liam Rushe and Gary Maguire received their plaudits in front of a packed audience, with Alan Brogan being named Player of the Year.

Fingallians’ Paul Flynn makes his way to the National Convention Centre stage to collect his All-Star football award. Pictures: SPORTSFILE

T

Bernard Brogan Snr, Lydia Brogan, Footballer of the Year Alan Dublin hurlers Liam Rushe and Gary Maguire

Brogan, Bernard Brogan and Marie Brogan

27 October 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 29

in association with

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - OCTOBER NOMINEES

FastSport

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

+ STARof the MONTH

Masters meet at NAC a massive swim success JAKE CARROLL

PAUL RYAN

ALAN BROGAN

A YOUNG man who has graduated through the ranks of local soccer to attain the heights of a place in the League of Ireland firmament, Carroll was instrumental in helping St Parts to the Leinster Senior Cup title.

BALLYBODEN St Enda’s Paul Ryan has been at the forefront of his club’s drive for five, thumping 2-6 against Lucan Sarsfields in the Dublin SHC semi-final including 1-4 of his side’s opening 1-5.

THE “other” Brogan brother’s immense contribution to Dublin’s AllIreland campaign in this and every other championship run he has been a part of was rewarded with a hugely deserved Player of the Year award.

+ TEAMof the

THE first Celtic Open Masters Short Course swim meet was held at the National Aquatic Centre, Blanchardstown last week.

The meet, jointly organised by Aer Lingus Masters and NAC Masters swimming clubs, attracted 285 entries from the length and breadth of Ireland, ranging in ages from 20 to 80.

The competitors represented no fewer than 43 Masters clubs, including six overseas clubs from Britain and Spain, all competing in a packed gala programme.

It is envisaged that the Celtic Open Masters could go on to become a regular event, adding to the existing Masters Swim Meet calendar in Ireland.

Fingal futsal competition a local success

MONTH

SOUTH DUBLIN SWANS

LUCAN GOLF

EGAN AND FLEMING

THE South Dublin Swans, featuring a number of the players who annexed the International Cup title in Melbourne earlier in the year won the Irish Aussie Rules Premiership title this month, defeating Leeside Lions in Laois

LUCAN Golf CLub’s ladies players claimed the Miele All-Ireland Fourball title this month in a nail-biting finale to the national competition at Kilkenny GC, defeating Faithlegg on the fifth play-off hole.

SALMON Leap Canoe CLub members Peter Egan and Neil Fleming took the Liffey Descent title to add to their huge achievements in claiming the Irish and British canoeing championships in 2011.

WELCOME to the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, as we mark our local sportsmen and women’s October sporting achievements across the capital and, indeed, across the nation.

We’re delighted to once again be able to celebrate the finest achievements in Dub-

lin sport, with some huge efforts at local levels coming to our attention in a variety of well-known, and some, less prominent, sports.

Ever y form of sporting achievement, at any level and in any sport, is valuable and gives an indication of the diversity of sporting commit-

ment there is around our fair city at all times of the year.

Let us know!

Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars.

Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ gazettesport.

You can also check out the latest stories from GazetteSport at our new website, www.gazettegroup.com

ST FINIAN’S Community College, Swords, played host to the FAI co-ordinated AllIreland Secondary School Futsal competition for first year boys.

The tournament was a great success with three schools from Swords — St Finian’s, Fingal Community College and Colaiste Choilm — and Donabate Community College competing for the title and the opportunity to represent their area at the Dublin finals.

The title went to Donabate Community College with a 3-1 win over

Fingal Community College in a competitive final.

Next up is the girls’ competition in St. Finian’s on October 26, with teams representing Balbriggan, Donabate, Rush and Swords all taking part.

The winners of these North Dublin Sections will progress to the Dublin Finals, which take place in Corduff, Blanchardstown, on November 16.

For further information on the FAI/Fingal Secondary Schools Futsal Competition contact Paul Keogh, Football in the Community Development Officer at 086-0444435 or email paul.keogh@ fai.ie

30 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27 October 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: UEFA EXPERIENCE WILL STAND TO PEAS IN NEW TEST

Lucan Racing snooker classic back this week DEFENDING champion Fergal O’Brien will start this year’s Lucan Racing Snooker Classic tournament against new professional David Hogan this Saturday in Celbridge snooker club.

Former winners Ken Doherty, Joe Swail and David Morris will be joined by Patrick Wallace, Rodney Goggins and Joe Delaney.

O’Brien said: “Thanks to Lucan Racing and Celbridge snooker club again for providing the players with this great opportunity, which they appreciate and enjoy. Hopefully, I can continue my good record in the event but it will be tough with such a good field of players “ For more information on the classic, contact Celbridge Snooker Club on 01 627 2224.

Summerfest set for next weekend THE 2011 Tesco mobile SARI Summerfest, the largest intercultural soccer tournament in Ireland, is set to take part this year at the Garda and Camogie Sports Grounds, in Phoenix Park on September 10 and 11 from 11am to 5pm each day.

The Summerfest will also coinciude with the CONCERN kitefest, where kite flyers from around the world will display their kites and give kite workshops for children.

The two-day festival also includes a wide array of entertainment for all the family.

For more information, see www. facebook.com/sarireland.

Castleknock Celtic seeking ladies talent CASTLEKNOCK Celtic FC’s ladies and girls section are recruiting new talent to the cllub for the soccer season starting later this month.

If you were born in 1996 or earlier, visit the club’s website at www.castleknockceltic.com, and pass on your name and contact details in the How To Join section provided on the site.

The club are also looking to recruit girls born in 2001/2002 to play soccer in the DubliGirls Soccer League.

Peamount United’s ladies are one of the six teams involved in the inaugural Women’s National League competition

Peamount go National sport@gazettegroup.com

PEAMOUNT United will play in the inaugural Bus Eireann Women’s National League in Aviva Stadium which was launched last Thursday at the Aviva stadium.

The competition will commence on Sunday, November 13, with the Peas invited to compete in the league following their heroics in this season’s UEFA Women’s Champions League.

They will fight it out for supremacy with Castlebar Celtic, Cork Women’s FC, Raheny United, Shamrock Rovers and Wexford Youths Women’s AFC.

The winner of the league qualifies for the 2012/13 UEFA Women’s Champions League.

The Republic of Ireland has become the latest country in Europe to launch a national women’s football league, with UEFA’s support.

The Football Association of Ireland was one of the four member associations to benefit from the UEFA women’s football development pilot phase in 2010/11, the other three being Italy, Portugal and Slovakia.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Michael Ring said of the new venture: “Irish women’s sport has

never been stronger. In recent years the achievements of our female sports stars have contributed enormously to the overall success of Irish sport.

“Their example provides encouragement and inspiration to thousands of girls and young sportswomen throughout the country. The launch of the Bus Éireann National Women’s League is hugely significant for the future of women’s football in Ireland.”

Steffi Jones, UEFA’s Women’s Football Development Programme Ambassador said: “Starting a national league is an essential step for women’s

football development in the Republic of Ireland.

Playing in club competitions is the gateway to A-team football and ensures a stable future for women’s football, as well as an incentive for girls around the country.”

FAI League Director, Fran Gavin added: “The launch marks a new era for women’s football in Ireland. For the first time, the Bus Eireann Women’s National League will bring together our best players, coaches and officials to a national stage as we build a platform for women’s football to thrive at home. This league will be given the same focus

and priority as the Airtricity League and we will apply the same principles of competition, integrity and fairness across the board to every club involved.”

Bus Éireann CEO Martin Nolan said: “The Bus Eireann Women’s National League will be a really important and longawaited development for everyone involved in Irish football and, through our support, we look forward to helping the FAI provide a crucial piece of the development pathway that will ultimately help our international teams source a rich new vein of talent.”

Lions get back into swing for season sport@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN Lions Basketball Club were back in business at all levels recently as three of their sides registered impressive performances in their respective leagues.

Their newly-minted Division 1 side that has been impressive in pre-season took to the court in their 2011-12 league opener against Killester in what looked sure to be an eventful and entertaining encounter between two league contenders.

New to Division One, but not

without genuine claims for a toptwo spot, Lions took the initiative in the first quarter, seemingly superior in all positions. Playing fluent, patient offence at one end, and hard ruthless defence at the other, Lions went into the huddle at the break seven points up.

Killester hauled Lions back and smothered them defensively in the second and third quarters – Lions managing just 6 and 3 points in each quarter respectively. Coach Pat Morahan could not seem to find an offensive threat, or five players who could

penetrate the Killester defence.

Mano Haastrup had a strong impact on the game and was the most effective player at both ends for the home side while Ian Wilson notched up an impressive 16 points. It would not be enough though, and Lions fell to a 46-37 defeat.

They can take a number of positives from their first run-out, and believe that, with all guns firing, the sky is the limit for the newly-promoted side.

The Lions also missed out on victory by a matter of inches in their Division 3 game against

Inchicore at the Oblates Hall.

A six-point deficit at the first break would be an accurate reflection of both Lions performance and a prediction for the remainder of the game.

Time and again turnovers hurt the travelling side. Poor decision-making and lapses in concentration marred some clever and inspired play but teams will require more consistency than Lions showed if they are to compete with the better sides in Division 3 this season, and the final score read 74-66 against the Lions.

27 October 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31

in association with

FOOTBALL: GOOD WIN AHEAD OF PLAY-OFFS

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ROUND TOWERS The senior footballers face Raheny

games, with game six being a rollo-

on Saturday at 4pm in St Anne’s

ver.

Park in a crucial league promotion match - all support welcome.

The minor footballers beat Kilmacud Crokes in the championship.

U-16 FOOTBALL DIV 3 Round Towers Clontarf BARRY GAVIN

2-12 2-10

sport@gazettegroup.com

ROUND Towers caused a major upset last Saturday when they defeated league leaders Clontarf in the U-16 football league at Clondalkin Community Centre.

The northside outfit had dropped just one point in 13 prior league games but Towers, playing into the wind, got off to a decent start as Shane Boland’s welltaken point cancelled out an early Tarf free.

Towers added another three points before Clontarf registered another score in spite of a strong breeze as the midfield pairing Joey Murphy and Chris Berry laid the foundations for the first half performance.

Murphy won a lot of primary possession and was well supported

by half backs Aaron Soady, Michael Cleary and Daniel Jesse while Berry played as an extra defender supporting the full backs.

Their cause was helped by their forwards who converted a large percentage of possession. Aaron Wynne and Craig Carroll were a constant thorn in the opposition side and full forward Cian Clarke was a very effective target man.

Boland was to the fore with three points from play and Alan Gavin kept the score ticking over converting three placed balls.

Towers managed to limit the away side to a single point from play and were it not for a penalty late in the half, could have gone into the half time break with a lead. Instead it was Clontarf who ended the half two points ahead at 1-6 to 0-7.

But the Clondalkin

side started the second half in superb fashion, getting a pair of scores and seemed to take a grip on the game.

The Towers’ backs, marshalled by goalkeeper Justin O’Hanlon and captain Eoin Barrett, insured that Clontarf had to work hard for possession and corner backs Sean Flynn and Ciaran Brennan kept a tight rein on their men.

Mur phy combined well with Aaron Whelan to get a long range point from play, and Alan Gavin chipped in with two more points from placed balls.

The teams exchanged points and when Gary Quinlivan crashed the ball to the back of the net, it looked like a major upset was on the cards.

As the game entered the final quarter, the home support was kept on tenter hooks as both teams fought to gain the upper hand.

In spite of the Towers’ efforts, Clontarf seemed to find another gear with the finish line in sight.

But Towers led by the narrowest of margins but the game was thrown on its head with three minutes to go as Clontarf scored a breakaway goal.

The hosts, however, responded in kind and piled on the pressure and, after a number of missed opportunities, centre back Michael Clear y put the Towers back in the lead with a spectacular goal from 25 meters. Shane Boland added another point to put the Towers into a two point lead.

Clontar f did their best to get back into the game but Towers held firm to finish out twopoint winners and can take great confidence from this performance as they go into the league play-offs and the cup final.

€4,500.

Congratulations to Tom Brady

ing to the dogs once again. This

(Brock), Elizabeth Hanly and Debbie

year’s A Night at the Dogs will take

Fallon, who were the three €100 win-

place on Friday, October 28, and is

ners. Next week’s jackpot is €4,600.

once again being staged at Harold’s

White Collar Boxing 2012 will take

Cross. Tickets are available for €10

place in the Red Cow on March 2,

and will provide you with admission

2012, anyone interested in taking

to the races, a bus to and from the

part should contact Mark, Niall,

club, and entry to a €1,000 limited

Damian or Matt who organised this

buster draw. Paddy Delaney, Jimmy

years event.

selling the tickets for the event.

Under-16s shock Clontarf in league

no winner of last week’s jackpot of

Round Towers GAA Club is head-

Lee, Dick Keane and Graham Hall are

Round Towers came away with a deserved win against Clontarf, featuring contributions from Gary Quinlan

This week’s lotto numbers were 1, 22, 27 and 29; Bonus Ball 8. There was

Those with a sweet tooth are invited down to the club on the morning of

Bingo continues this Tuesda y.

Sunday, October 23. Club members

Doors open at 8pm with first call

are getting together to organise a

at 8.30pm. Cash prizes. A line is €10,

cake sale that will begin at 10.30am

Full house €20; books €10 for eleven

and run to around 1.30pm.

LUCAN SARSFIELDS A WEEKEND to remember. History in

gala ball. Contact Paul Stapleton or

the making for club as the juvenile

Martina McGilloway to be included

camogie section won all four Divi-

on a reserve list.

sion 1 county championship titles from U-13 to U-16.

The Lucan Sarsfields GAA Club 25 Card Drive takes place every Fri-

Great quarter-final win by seniort

day in the clubhouse bar at 9pm.

footballers in championship, and

Set dancing is on every Wednesday

they now play Oliver Plunkett’s ER

from 8.30 to 10pm.

in semi-final. Time and date will be on website. All support welcome.

Great win also for Inter footballers over Vincent’s to ensure AFL3 football next season.

Johnny McCaffrey has organised two coaching courses for mentors in November. If you are interested, contact Johnny.

Saturday, November 5: Music by Mulligan. Thursday, November 17: AGM. All tables have been sold for the

Fr John to say Mass in the club on Wednesday, November 2 at 8pm for our deceased members.

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 4, 8, 13 and 20. There was no winner.

Next week’s jackpot is €5,000.

Josephine Donohue’s team will be in charge next weekend.

Do not forget you can alwa ys enter our lotto online by clicking on www.lucansarsfields.ie.

Thanks to Newcastle Golf centre who are this week’s sponsor.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN CONGRATULATIONS from all at St

pionship final this Saturday when

Pat’s to Liam Rushe who last Friday

they take on Raheny at 10.30am in St

received a hurling All-Star award

Peregrine’s ground.

and was crowned young hurler

Our sincere thanks to Moriarty’s

of the year, an honour he richly

Supervalu, Palmerstown, and to the

deserves.

juvenile mentors and players who

Juvenile hurling: U-8s, 9s and 10s played Beann Eadair, O’Dwyer’s

helped with our fundraising bagpack last weekend.

and Parnell’s, while U-11s beat Wild

There are only four weeks to our

Geese and U-12s lost to Castleknock.

Jubilee Gala Ball which takes place

In football, U-13s lost to Kevin’s/Kil-

in the Red Cow Moran’s Hotel. If

lian’s, and U-16s had a a good win

you have’nt secured your tickets

over Raheny.

yet please ring or text 086 7255

Senior hurlers are in Parnell Park

586and leave your order. Tickets

this Saturday at 2pm to play Naomh

only €45 with champagne reception

Fionnbarra in the B championship

at 7.30pm and four-course meal

final, and we hope you will find the

served at 8pm.

time to be there and cheer on the lads. U-16s hurlers also play a cham-

The annual mass of remembrance takes place on November 12 at 8pm.

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

NEW HORIZONS: GANG IN ’TOWN: Peamount Westmanstown set for debut

season host Leinster of women’s schools’ FAI league rugby blitz P30 P28

MAY 26, OCTOBER 27, 2011

OCTOBER SUPER STARS: HEROES Sports May award Awards nominees nominations revealed announced inside P29

GazetteSPORT

Taylor gets golden Russian revenge Q clondalkinsport@gazettegroup.com

KATIE Taylor’s list of accolades continues to grow after coming home from the European Boxing Championships for the fifth time in succession as the champion.

She beat Russian Sofya Ochigava 10-5 in the 60kg final last weekend to show she is in fine form ahead of next year’s world championships, which will double as a qualifier for the Olympic Games in London next summer.

For the Peamount United club member, its brings her major competition tally to 12 golds, her fifth European gold to go with three world and four EU titles.

And it is getting those Olympic Games she is now firmly focusing on, via the worlds: “The main goal of mine is to qualify for the Olympics first but I’m going to enjoy my break,” she said “But, when I go back training, all my focus will be on the World Championships next year.

“All these tournaments over the last few years have just been a stepping stone

towards these Olympic qualifiers really and next year is the big one. That is what everyone has been training for.”

She produced yet another stunning tournament with five wins in six days, gaining some modicum of revenge for a defeat to Ochigava at the Usti na Labem Grand Prix in the Czech Republic in March 2010.

Father and trainer, Peter, felt she had comfortably won that day but Katie was able to turn the tables in some style against a very tricky opponent.

“Sofya is one of the best opponents I have ever met and I’m absolutely thrilled with the win. I can’t believe it really. I would like to thank my dad and coaches, and the entire Irish squad, for all their fantastic support all week,” said Taylor.

Irish team manager Anne Moore was quick to add her tribute to the star fighter: “Katie is boxing at another level than what she was at last year and she was absolutely exceptional. The entire squad are on a high after this win and we’re absolutely thrilled.”

Taylor began with a tight first round in

Katie Taylor added a fifth European title to her three world championship golds and a quartet of EU first place finishes

the final, ending 1-0 ahead, courtesy of a quick right, and she built on that early initiative to stretch the lead to 4-1 at the end of the second.

The third round was keenly contested but Taylor showed her poise to pick off her shots when she could and continue to pull further clear and add to her

already unprecedented medal total for an Irish athlete in European competition.

In so doing, it means the country has three current Euro champs for 2011, joining Joe Ward and Ray Moylette in the winner’s enclosure after their successes in Turkey in the summer.