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January nu ua y 19, 2012

INSIDE: Debating the fairness of the new COLLEGE OPTIONS: Our essential household tax P6 guide to further study choices P19-29

Support: Staff at sit-in enjoy well wishes STAFF at the La Senza lingerie

Boxing: Egan and Taylor prepare for Olympic year Page 40

outlet in Liffey Valley ended their sit-in last week, after administrators KPMG and the Mandate trade union came to an agreement over outstanding payments and other issues.

Although the workers, including Nikki Kirwan, pictured with her daughter, Abbie, were very upset with the loss of their jobs, they drew some comfort from the support they received from shoppers and retailers.

Picture: Conor O’Mearain

Full Gallery on Page 8

Soccer: Whelan signs extended deal with Stoke City Page 38

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 TRAVEL..........................16 ENTERTAINMENT ......... 18 BUSINESS ................... 30 MOTORS ....................... 32 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 34

Almost 20,000 to be hit with bin charges South Dublin bin waivers to end for many from April

Q PAUL HOSFORD

ALMOST 20,000 already hard-pressed households in South Dublin will be forced to pay bin charges from April, The Gazette can reveal.

In 2011, 18,000 households in South Dublin were in receipt of household bin waivers.

However, Labour councillor Eamon Tuffy said this week that, under the terms of transfer by the council of its bin collection system to Greyhound waste, this system will end in April.

“In the Lucan Electoral Area, almost 3,000 households have a waiver (1,926 in Lucan,

and 990 in Palmerstown) and in the Clondalkin Electoral Area, 4,500 households (4,223 in Clondalkin, and the balance of almost 300 in Rathcoole and Newcastle),” said Cllr Tuffy, who is urging the Government to introduce a national system for bin waivers.

Full Story on Page 10

2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 19 January 2012

FUNDING: BOOST FOR A MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE

€33k to help local charity Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

A LOCAL charity has received a funding boost this week, with more than €30,000 being made available to it.

The Beacon of Light counselling centre in Neilstown will receive €33,000 in new funding, made available through Government grant aid. Local TD, Minister Frances Fitzgerald, warmly welcomed the news.

She said: “I was delighted to be able to provide financial assistance to The Beacon of Light – an affordable counselling service based in Clondalkin.

“The facility was under huge financial pressure, and I made funding available in order to ensure that this fantastic service can continue to help so many families in our area,” said Minister Fitzgerald.

“Only a couple of months ago, I launched a private fundraising initiative targeting businesses

in the Citywest Business Centre, and published a report in the area of mental health, carried out by Amarach Research.

“In difficult economic times, the demand for counselling and support services will rise, just as the Government’s ability to meet this demands declines.

“It is a most unfortunate predicament, and I was delighted to be able to assist the organisation by making €33,000 available to the service,” she said.

Minister Fitzgerald has long been an advocate of mental health issues.

Before entering politics, she was a social worker, and has been involved in promoting mental health awareness since she became a public figure.

“As Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, youth mental health is an issue of particular importance to me, and I am delighted that our local services here in Clondalkin and Lucan are continuing to grow,” said Minister Fitzgerald.

Plugged into science: At an electrifying event SCIENCE needn’t be a hair-raising experience, but, for Moyle Park College First Year student, Jack Coughlan, that’s exactly what his brush with science turned out to be during his recent visit to Maynooth College.

Jack, and friends, had an electrifying time visiting Maynooth, thanks to a fascinating night spent at the college during its Science Week, during which the students were able to get some hands-on experience with a

number of scientific principles.

Whether or not the visit planted a spark of interest in the students, it’s clear that the visit left them plugged in to some of the many fun aspects that a career in science can offer.

INCREASE: DUBLIN MID-WEST HIT WITH ‘DEPRESSING’ RISE

Jobless figures up for second month in row Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

JOBLESS figures in Dublin Mid-West have risen for the second month in a row, according to the latest statistics released by the CSO. Speaking to The Gazette, local Sinn Fein representative Eoin O’Broin described the situation as “depressing” when nationwide jobless figures actually fell in December.

He said: “The news from the CSO shows

that unemployment in Clondalkin and Lucan has risen for two months in a row.

“In December, 8,925 people were on the Live Register. While the picture for the country, overall, indicated a marginal drop in unemployment for December, Clondalkin and Lucan have seen an increase.

“After two months of marginal drops, it is deeply depressing to see that unemployment in Dublin Mid-West is on the rise for the second

month in a row, particularly when other parts of the country have experienced a small drop in joblessness,” said O’Broin.

“In October, the Government said that the economic future was looking brighter, and that unemployment was decreasing [but these CSO] figures tell a very different story.

“The response by the Government has been to reduce investment in capital programmes – that will result in up to 7,500 job losses; to cut

6,000 jobs from the public service; and to reduce the spending power of low- and middle-income earners with stealth taxes, VAT increases and social welfare cuts, all of which will lead to thousands more job losses,” he said.

“The policies of this Government will only further depress our economy, increase unemployment and increase emigration, all of which will leave more families from Lucan and Clondalkin without

work, and dependent on ever-decreasing social welfare payments, or the prospect of life away from family and friends in Australia or the US. “It is time that the Government listened to the people and fundamentally changed their approach.

“It is time that the Government put job recreation and employment at the centre of its policies, as proposed by Sinn Fein in our prebudget submission,” said O’Broin.

19 January 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3

SCHOOLS Students take part in science exhibition

Atmospheric project from local pupils Q LAURA WEBB

lucan@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN students hung up their white coats for another year following the end to an exciting few days showcasing science and technology projects during the annual BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition.

Schools from all over Ireland took to the RDS to compete in the event that celebrated its 48th birthday this year.

Almost 1,200 students from 221 schools with 550 projects competed for the coveted title of the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2012.

Of the many projects entered, Dublin represented 131 of those, and, in the end, it was two Dublin students from Synge Street CBS who took home the overall prize.

Leaving Cert students Eric Doyle and Mark Kelly, both aged 17, won with their project entitled, Simulation accuracy in the gravitational many body problem.

They were presented with a cheque for €5,000, tickets to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the opportunity to represent Ireland at the 24th European Union Young Scientist competition taking place

in Bratislava in September and a Waterford crystal trophy.

But the prize-giving didn’t stop there, with Dublin students receiving 46 awards, including three of the overall top four prizes at this year’s competition.

Colm O’Neill, CEO, BT Ireland said: “The passion and enthusiasm we have seen from the students taking part this week has been outstanding.

“This year’s exhibition was bigger and better than ever before, and the reaction from the students, teachers and visitors to the RDS this week has been amazing.

“We live in a continu-

Gabriel Omezy and Robert O’Leary, from Colaiste Phadraig, Lucan, with their project, The Effects of Ocean Temperature on Atmospheric Aerosol Absorption

ally changing world and what we have seen from the students this week is that they have the foresight and innovation to come up with real problem-solving ideas that can help Ireland to grow and develop into the future.

“Huge congratulations to Eric and Mark, and all the winners. I look for-

ward to watching their progress in the coming years,” he said.

Professor Pat Guiry, head judge, Chemical, Physical and Mathematical category, said of the winning project: “The project develops a novel mathematical approach, which has a diverse range of applications,

from satellite placement to predicting network congestion in telecommunications.

“In the opinion of the judging panel, an exceptional level of mathematical proficiency was demonstrated. Of particular note, they included an inbuilt accuracy estimation in their solution,” he said.

SHOPPING Deals on used baby gear ARIS Ireland, a “face-toface” service for buying second-hand baby, toddler and maternity goods, will hold its first event of 2012 on January 21 in the Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley from 2pm-4pm.

The aim of Aris is to get parents and parentsto-be together under one roof to sell and buy second-hand baby, toddler and maternity items.

Owner Fiona Quinn says that her own reluctance to use the internet to buy goods led to her setting up the business.

“I’ve run ARIS sales events over the last year in community and school halls, and the feedback is that there is a real need for this service. Each event was fully booked out weeks beforehand with sellers who wanted to pass on an amazing range of barely-used goods,” she said.

See www.aris-ireland. com for further details.

PREVIEWING THE CLEANER MAZDA3

W

4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 19 January 2012

Not only is the new Mazda3 easier on the environment, they say it is more fun to drive than ever.

Cormac Curtis takes a sneak peak.

SEE MOTORING, PAGE 32

TELL US YOUR NEWS YOUR LOCAL PAPER, YOUR LOCAL NEWS! Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com

Staff at lingerie store LaSenza staged a sit-in at the Liffey Valley store last week in protest over back pay

RETAIL: KPMG AGREE TO HONOUR ALL BACK PAY DUE TO WORKERS

Success for La Senza staff in Liffey Valley Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

WORKERS who staged a sit in protest at the La Senza store in Liffey Valley were left celebrating after administrator KPMG said they would be paid all back money they are owed.

Staff at the shop had barricaded themselves in after they were told that they would be made redundant without pay.

Their sit-in ended last Friday, January 13, after the trade union, Mandate, received assurances from administrators, KPMG. “At a meeting after 5pm (on Friday), the contents of this letter were communicated to the La Senza workers and they were satisfied

with what KPMG had to say and then decided to end their sit-in,” Mandate divisional organiser, Michael Meegan said.

This week, tributes were paid to the workers by local politicians including Fine Gael TD, Derek Keating, who said the “determination and resilience of the staff” had paid off.

Situation “I am over the moon that the whole sorry situation, whereby the staff at La Senza were being denied what was rightfully theirs, has been brought to a close.

“I have spent numerous hours in the Liffey Valley Shopping Centre this week with the workers, offering them support in whatever way I

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‘Their sit-in ended last Friday, Jauary 13, after the trade union Mandate received assurances from administrators KPMG’

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could. Only just today, I had organised a delivery of beds to be brought to the store so that the staff could have some level of comfort during the sit-in.

I am delighted that it will now not be needed.

“What struck me most about this situation over the last week was the determination and resilience of the staff in how they conducted themselves. They showed massive amounts of integrity, which really captured the attention of the nation. They had

countless expressions of support and goodwill, literally, from every corner of the world and had even received a bouquet of flowers and messages of encouragement from as far away as Australia,” said Keating.

His comments were was echoed by Labour TD for Dublin Mid West, Joanna Tuffy, who said that, while the staff were still being made redundant, the fact that they were to be paid what they were owed, was good news.

“I would like to commend the workers for their brave stance, and applaud them for the dignified manner in which they carried out their protest.

“In addition, the efforts of their trade union, Mandate, in this matter, has been crucial.

“I would like to thank my Labour Party colleague Minister, Sean Sherlock, for the clarity that he brought to bear on this issue, when he addressed the concerns that I raised in the Dail this week.

“While nothing can compensate these workers for the fact that they are now out of work, the fact that the money that they are owed, is to be paid to them, is progress,” said Deputy Tuffy.

See gallery on Page 8

19 January 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5

6 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 19 January 2012

OPINION Debating the fairness of the new household tax

Following the introduction of the controversial new €100 household charge, we take a look at two very different opinions on the move

Ordinary people must take a stand RUTH COPPINGER Socialist Party Councillor

THE new Household Tax is the first in a series of austerity taxes which will quickly rise to €1,000 for householders.

Already the Government has fast-tracked a so-called Property Tax, with figures of €5-600 suggested on homes valued at €150 to €300,000, and €900-€1,000 on homes of €3-400,000.

A water tax is promised for 2014, which will cost hundreds.

Hardly anyone will

escape, with pensioners, the unemployed and those suffering negative equity all liable.

With falling incomes, pay and welfare cuts, ordinary people simply have to take a stand on this one.

We have the power to organise a nationwide campaign, refuse to register and withold payment.

Imagine how a million people doing this would create huge political pressure – particularly on a government that promised to stop bailing out the bond-

holders, and Labour who said it would not implement household and water charges.

It would also make the threats of fines unworkable.

Incidentally, the tax cannot be deducted from people, contrary to government propaganda.

On January 25, another €1.25 billion will be handed over to Anglo, with us paying the price in new taxes and cuts to our schools and hospitals.

This tax is more futile bailout money.

Fingal management

have already made it clear it will be of “no benefit” to council services.

The Campaign A g a i n s t Ho u s e h o l d and Water Taxes has launched a hotline 1890-98 98 00 and a series of nationwide meetings, including in Dublin West.

More meeting are planned. These include The Carpenter, January 25, at 8pm; Roselawn Inn, January 26; and Kelly’s Ongar Village on January 31.

We say to people “Don’t register, don’t pay.”

Ruth Coppinger, Socialist Party councillor for the Mulhuddart Ward

Instead join the campaign and let’s establish mass non-payment by St Patrick’s Day, which would then give people

the confidence to go all the way.

Ruth Coppinger is Socialist Party councillor for the Mulhuddart

Ward at Fingal County Council and is part of the Campaign Against Household and Water Taxes.

I ask that every citizen continues to play their part in the recovery effort PHIL HOGAN Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government

THE household charge is a vehicle to generate funding for the provision of local services.

Ireland is one of the last countries in Europe that does not fund local services through a local property charge.

These services are the fabric of every community in the country.

They include street lighting, library services, street cleaning, fire and emergency services, maintenance of open spaces and a range of community, amenity and social activities.

The EU/IMF Programme of Financial Support for Ireland commits us to doing this through the introduction of a property-based tax in 2012.

Aside from the EU/IMF agreement, the introduction of the household charge will be

another step on the road to a stable and sustainable funding base for the local government sector.

While new forms of tax or charges are unpopular, the introduction of the household charge must be seen in the context of local authorities continuing to deliver the full range of services essential to meeting the requirements of our communities and businesses.

It is international best practice that local services are administered by local authorities which funds local services.

Local authorities have a vital role to play in delivering essential services to our communities, enhancing quality of life through local amenities and in creating and maintaining an environment in which business can prosper and employment can be created and supported.

To ensure that local gov-

Phil Hogan TD, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government

ernment can continue to discharge its role to the citizens, it is necessary to put the funding of locally delivered services on a sound financial footing, improve accountability and better align the cost of provid-

ing services with the demand for such services.

Local authorities play a critical role in developing and maintaining a good standard and quality of life in local communities.

They are responsible for an extensive range of services which impact on our everyday lives and, sometimes, we may take them for granted.

The fact of the matter is that local services have to be paid for. We expect to be able to walk down clean and wellmaintained streets; we want parks, libraries, open spaces and leisure facilities to enjoy.

Local authorities have reduced staff numbers by almost 7,000 since 2008.

That is a reduction of almost 20% and we intend to save a further half a billion euro in revenue and efficiency gains over the short, medium and longer term.

In fact, local authorities have accounted for more than 30% of the overall reduction in public sector numbers.

The household charge is being introduced out of necessity – the necessity to ensure

that local authority services are funded in a sustainable manner; the necessity to close the gap between income and expenditure in the national finances; and, ultimately, the necessity to ensure that we meet our obligations under the EU/IMF Programme of Financial Support for Ireland.

This country is in an unprecedented situation, and a huge effort is needed over the next few years to turn the economy around.

This will require a sustained approach to reform and very strong leadership. Ireland will recover and this Government will continue to provide the leadership and direction to make sure of it.

I ask that every citizen continues to play their part in the recovery effort.

Phil Hogan TD is Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

19 January 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 7

BOOST Workers will provide additional support

Five additional social workers are appointed MINISTER Frances F i t z g e r a l d h a s we l comed the announcement of an additional four social workers and one team leader for the Clondalkin, Rathcoole, Newcastle, Saggart, Palmerstown and Lucan area.

The additional social workers will cover child protection in these areas and the creation of their posts is part of the HSE’s nationwide campaign to employ 60 additional social workers, as recommended by the Ryan Report.

Fitzgerald said that, in her role as Minister for Children, the implementation of the Ryan

Report was a key concern for her.

“Since my first day in office I have been committed to implementing the recommendations of the Ryan Report. Among the key recommendations made in the report was the recruitment of an additional 60 social workers in the area of child protection.

“I am pleased to announce that four of these social workers and one team leader will be based in my own constituency to help cover child protection throughout Lucan, Clondalkin, Palmerstown, Saggart, Newcastle and Rathcoole.

“These workers will provide additional support to our services here in Dublin Mid West and will work to ensure the protection of children throughout our communities,” said the Minister, who said that the implementation of the report was going well.

“Last year I personally took over the chair of the Ryan Report Implementation Group. The Ryan Report Implementation Plan committed to the recruitment of an additional 60 social workers in 2011.

“T he latest available information from the HSE indicates that 58 of these posts have

FastNews Action group set to march THE St Brigid’s Action Group, the group who are fighting to save the nursing home in Rathcoole, is holding a short march through the town to raise awareness of their cause. The group will meet at the Poitin Stil at 2.30pm on January 22 to start the walk.

For more information, call Michelle on 087 652 5564..

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald

been either filled or accepted. The delivery of this important commitment, despite the pressures on the HSE to pause recruitment during 2011, shows the absolute commitment and determination of the Government and I to deliver improved child protection and family support services as part of our ongoing ‘change agenda’,” said the Minister.

The social workers will

work across the area and will be given targeted objectives, she said.

“T hese additional social workers will be targeted at priority areas of the service having regard to an overall assessment of workload undertaken by the HSE’s National Director of Children and Family services, Gordon Jeyes to support the ‘change agenda’.

“I am pleased to have succeeded in ensuring

that these additional social workers were recruited thus fulfilling the Ryan report recommendation and delivering on my commitment to this issue.

“The additional supports of these five trained individuals here in my own area are a welcome resource for our communities across Lucan, Clondalkin, Palmerstown, Newcastle, Saggart and Rathcoole,” she said.

Celebrate the Chinese New Year SOUTH Dublin County Council, in association with the Institute of Technology, Tallaght, are inviting locals to an evening of Chinese and Irish Culture to celebrate the Chinese New Year 2012. The event will take place in County Library, Tallaght on January 26 from 6.30 pm.

For more information, see www.sdcc.ie

8 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 19 January 2012

RETAIL Workers united over handling of store closures

La Senza staff members, Gillian McAlinden, Sinead Flanagan and Carolyn Conway, with Gillian’s son, Ben

Some of the protestor’s signs in the window

Staff at La Senza happy with support La Senza staff member, Nikki Kirwan, put a brave face on her situation, with help from her 18-month-old daughter, Abbie

TAFF at the La Senza lingerie outlet in Liffey Valley Shopping Centre showed their team spirit in uniting to oppose the manner of their store closures when the chain went into administration last week.

Joined by staff from other La Senza outlets, the Clondalkin outlet’s staff

S

held a highly-visible week-long sitin and protest at the store, drawing national media and public attention to their plight, with the workers raising particular concerns about pay and overtime relating to their Christmas duties, and the wait for statutory redundancy entitlements.

Following negotiations with the chain’s administrators, KPMG, and Mandate trade union, the workers ended their sit-in at the outlet.

Although the workers were very upset with the loss of their jobs, they drew some comfort from the support they received from shoppers and retailers.

La Senza staff member and spokesperson, Tara Keane, with Mandate union official, Michael Meegan

La Senza staff member Vanessa La Senza Liffey Valley staff members, Kim Downey, Clare O’Hanlon, Sam Downey,

Ryan talking to Mandate official,

Lynn Higgins-Gill, Linda Mullen, Justyna Kowalska and Jenny Anders

Michael Meegan

Participating in the sit-in at the Liffey Valley outlet. Pictures: Conor O’Mearain

19 January 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9

ENTERTAINMENT Big fun at death-defying bike stars’ event

Get ready for a wheely great show DUBLIN fans of adrenaline-fuelled stunts on two wheels will be doing backflips with news that The Masters of Dirt are back in town, hitting Citywest Event Centre from March 23 to 25.

The event promises exhilarating aerial stunts, on awesome extreme machines, and all fused with stunning lighting, astounding sound, and red-hot flame cannons.

The world-class Freestyle Motocross (FMX) stunt spectacular, fuelled

by Lucan-based energy drink, Monster Energy, returns to Dublin with a new show at Citywest.

The world’s top free-

style motocross, quad, 50cc mini bike, mountain bike, bmx, and even snowmobile riders, perform death-defying whips, back flips, and jaw-dropping stunts, live and up-close, in a totally unique new show.

Featuring spectacular extreme sports, in a breath-taking, highoctane performance, Masters of Dir t will see world-famous riders from Europe, Asia and America present death-defying stunts in an action-packed twoand-a-half hour arena show.

Masters of Dirt tickets are on sale now from

Ticketmaster, priced from €39, for the three adrenaline-filled Dublin shows on the 2012 world tour.

The 2010 Dublin dates were a complete sell-out, with more than 15,000 fans; so, Masters of Dirt 2012 will feature two evening shows, as well as a Sunday matinee, for a weekend of exhilarating FMX fun for all the family.

International FMX riders, including Edgar Torronteras from Spain, and France’s Remi Bizouard, are among the fearless Masters of Dirt riders who will take to “Irish airspace” next March.

Backflips, fire cannons and much more will add to the adrenaline-fuelled excitement of the upcoming Masters of Dirt show

According to Masters of Dirt founder, Georgie Fechter: “We can’t wait to come back to Dublin with our rock-out aerial production.

“The bike shows are incredible and, combined with the astounding sound and lighting, alongside the flame cannons and the fire-breathing antics of the Fuel Girls, this ultra-intense show really goes-off.”

Catch the explosive new show at Citywest in March

10 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 19 January 2012

R1

WASTE Greyhound household bin waiver system is to end in South Dublin

20,000 households to pay bin charges from April Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

ALMOST 20,000 households in South Dublin will have to pay bin charges from April, The Gazette can reveal.

In 2011, 18,000 households in South Dublin were in receipt of household bin waivers.

Howe ve r, L a b o u r councillor Eamon Tuffy said this week that, under the terms of transfer by the council of its bin collection system to Greyhound waste, this system will end in April.

Cllr Tuffy said: “In the Lucan Electoral Area, almost 3,000 households have a waiver (1,926

in Lucan, and 990 in Palmerstown) and in the Clondalkin Electoral Area, 4,500 households (4,223 in Clondalkin itself, and the balance of almost 300 in Rathcoole and Newcastle).

“In response to my question at the December council meeting, the [county] manager

informed me that, in 2011, 18,800 households in South Dublin were in receipt of household bin waivers, and so were entitled to a certain number of free black and brown bin collections every quarter,” he said.

Cllr Tuffy is now urging the Government to introduce a national system

for bin waivers.

“Under the terms of the transfer by the council of its bin collection system to Greyhound Waste, the waiver system for all these households will end in April.

“I am calling on the Government to introduce the promised national waiver system as soon

as possible, preferably before April,” he said.

“For almost a decade, South Dublin County Council operated a waiver system for lower-income households availing of the council’s domestic refuse collection,” he said.

Meanwhile, in a parliamentar y question response to a question

raised by Dublin MidWest Labour TD, Joanna Tuffy, Minister Hogan confirmed that a national system was in the pipeline.

“I expect to be in a position to submit final proposals in relation to household waste collection to Government early this year,” he said.

Emily Holt, as Baby, and Paul-Michael Jones, as Johnny, are all set to deliver Dublin audiences all of the key iconic moments from the much-loved film when their production takes to the Dublin stage

CULTURE: DIRTY DANCING IS SET FOR A RECORD-BREAKING RUN IN THE CAPITOL

Dublin’s getting Dirty Q LAURA WEBB

news@gazettegroup.com

IT LOOKS like Dubliners will be having the “time of their lives” at the Grand Canal Theatre this month, when the hit West End show, Dirty Dancing, makes its Irish debut for a staggering six-week run.

T h e p o p u l a r 8 0 ’s film about Frances’ (or “Baby”, as she is better known in the film) rollercoaster summer at a holiday camp with her family, and her love for dance teacher, Johnny, continues to capture the

hearts of generations, young and old.

Now that the film has been transformed into a record-breaking smashhit musical, fans are standing on their seats, dancing to the unforgettable soundtrack that includes tracks such as Do You Love Me?, Hungry Eyes, and the Academy Award-winning (I’ve had) The Time Of My Life, to name but a few.

So far, more than five million people worldwide have seen the sensational production.

For its opening, Dirty Dancing – The Classic

Story On Stage, written

by Eleanor Bergstein, the script writer and creator of the film, sold out six months in advance, breaking West End records.

Here in Dublin, it is breaking records by being the longest-running booking at the Grand Canal Theatre in Dublin.

Speaking to The Gazette this week, the show’s producer, Karl Sydow, said the stage production has everything the audience can expect from the muchloved film.

“We have tried to keep

it close to the film, you just don’t mess with that kind of success.

“If we did, I think the audience would tear us apart if we didn’t deliver the entire film on stage,” he joked.

“We have everything – we have them balancing on a log, we have a lake with them practising on the lake, we have the great dance numbers which people will be expecting.

“I think the touring production is the best we have done yet for Dirty Dancing. “ I ’m p a r t i c u l a r l y

pleased with it; Dublin has a great show,” said Karl.

The show is currently touring Britain before coming to Ireland and, so far, according to Karl, it’s breaking records everywhere it goes.

“It broke the house record in Glasgow, and we just learned that we have the fastest-selling show ever in Aberdeen.

The tour, overall, has been the fastest-selling everywhere we go.

“It seems as though Dirty Dancing has maintained its magic for Dublin, too, because lots of

people want to see it, which we are extremely pleased about,” he said.

When asked what it is about the film and show that makes it so successful, he said it’s the story.

“I think the story of Dirty Dancing makes it so strong. The movie came out in 1987, 25 years ago.

“When it came out, it was made for $5 million, and it took $187 million in the first year, making it the most successful independent film of all time.

“It was the first VHS cassette to sell a million units – the same for

DVD – and every year it seems to find a brandnew audience – it’s got a great story.

“I compare it to Cinderella. She goes to the ball and gets the prince, but not with glass slippers but with her dancing ability. It is a really strong fairytale,” he said.

Dirty Dancing takes place at the Grand Canal Theatre, Docklands, Dublin 2 until Saturday, February 25.

For further details, see www.grandcanaltheatre. ie. Tickets are also available through Ticketmaster.

19 January 2012 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 19 January 2012

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

Pamper your skin with these ranges from Dr Hauschka T’S adored by celebrities worldwide and this February will see the luxurious natural skincare brand, Dr Hauschka, launch three new additions to its body moisturiser range.

The sumptuous moisturisers include Lemon Lemongrass Body Moisturiser (€24), Lavender Sandalwood Body Moisturiser (€23.95) and Almond Body Moisturiser (€24).

The Body Care range will also include a new a n d i m p r ove d f o rmula for the famed Dr Hauschka Rose Body

I

Moisturiser (€24.95),and Quince Body Moisturiser (€23.95).

Skin is left feeling soft and supple, with the new formulas absorbing quicker than before.

T he invigorating Lemon Lemongrass Body Moisturiser contains lemon oil and lemongrass, which helps to energise, tone and brighten dull, tired skin.

The zesty, fresh fragrance is a great way to start the day and keep your skin feeling healthy and youthful-looking.

Meanwhile, Lavender Sandalwood Body

Moisturiser helps soothe the senses with a calming, light, fragrant body moisturiser.

Lavender gently hydrates dry skin, calms inflammation and alleviates stress, leaving the skin feeling smooth, soft, and comforted.

Give thirsty skin a boost of hydration with the Almond Body Moisturiser. As the enchanting, one-of-a-kind fragrance unfolds, it evokes the floral rose-like scent of almond blossoms, followed by a warm, sensual note of almond fruit.

This intensive body

Drawing on natural ingredients, the new body moisturisers are available from mid-February at selected stockists

moisturiser helps your skin prevent moisture loss throughout the day.

The new and improved formulas for the rose and quince body moisturisers will help to pamper and soothe dry, upset skin

with ingredients such as quince, rose and rose hip.

The quickly-absorbing intensive body moisturisers stimulates the skin’s own moisture production, thus preventing

skin from drying out.

To avail of these naturally nourishing body moisturisers, which are available from mid-February, Dr Hauschka Skin Care is stocked in selected health stores, phar-

macies, Avoca, Harvey Nichols, all Life pharmacies and McCabes@ Clerys.

For details of your nearest stockist, see w w w.drhauschkaireland.ie.

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19 January 2012 GAZETTE 13

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: RESPONSIBILITY DOES NOT END AFTER YOUR PET’S FIRST VACCINATION

A realistic cost of owning a dog WE’RE well into 2012 and I’m sorry to say the first signs of what I call “New Year pet abandonment syndrome”, or “throwaway pets”, are, sadly, already showing.

We’ve rescued dogs who have been thrown over 10-foot high walls, resulting in appalling injuries; dogs who’ve been hog-tied to concrete pillars and left for dead, puppies dumped on the doorstep with excruciatingly painful mange, horses left impaled on barbed wire fences in fields, forcing animal welfare officers to humanely euthanise, cats dumped in a bird cage in a city park, dangerously ill geriatric pets abandoned on the side of the road…to name but a few.

And it’s only January!

I can tell you the Dublin SPCA is bracing itself for the remainder of the year.

With that in mind, I’ve decided to put together a little budget list – which, by the way, does not include for emergency veterinary care – so that if you’re considering adding a canine to your family, then you’ll at least have a ball park figure of what it’s going to cost… approximately!

First of all let me stress again – keeping a dog as a pet is a huge responsibility that does not end after the dog’s first vaccination.

It must be remembered that a dog can live, on average, for as long as 12-15 years; in some cases longer, (in my case my eldest dog is now 17) and the

tion fee at six months old.

Will be microchipped.

Will have had flea and worming treatments Puppy with pedigree

This adorable Jack Russell is Jill and she’s currently looking for a new home

cost of keeping it throughout its lifetime does not stop at what it eats.

Here’s a few facts but, do remember, the figures are an approximation only.

Puppy from shelter

Cost of a puppy from

the Dublin SPCA Animal Shelter: €135 Puppy has first vaccination if eight weeks old.

Will have had two vaccinations if 12 weeks or older.

Will be neutered/ spayed as part of adop-

Cost of a pedigree puppy from a breeder averages from €250€ 1, 2 0 0 , d e p e n d i n g on breed. And, please only go to a registered, licensed breeder.

Neutering/spaying averages from €150€250 Primary vaccinations (two to three required) approximately €50 each.

Microchip €50 (average).

Additional costs

In addition to the

above, the annual cost for all dogs, whether adopted from a shelter or purchased from a breeder, will be: Annual booster average €50 (essential for maintaining health of dog) Kennel cough vaccination – essential if dog is being boarded (effective only for six months) Annual f lea and worming treatment €80 (average) Vet consultation (without medication) €45 (average) Boarding kennels (summer holidays etc.) €13+ a day – depends on size of animal.

Food – (depends on the appetite of the dog) €20 plus per week. (based on a medium-

sized dog on dry food, with additional tinned dog food.)

Pet Insurance €180 to €285 approximately annually - covers accident, illness etc.

Dog collars, beds, toys, treats all extra.

So, taking into account all of the above, an animal who is properly taken care of, makes regular trips to the vet, leading to a healthy life for approximately 15 years, could cost you as much as €30,000.

Further information on keeping a dog, or for those thinking of getting a pet, can be obtained from the Dublin SPCA or from our website at www.dspca.ie or email miriam.kerins@dspca.ie

14 GAZETTE 19 January 2012

GazetteFITNESS FITNESS

Brought to you by Derry Temple personal trainer and pilates instructor

FACTS: YOU NEED TO SET REASONABLE GOALS

Making New Year resolutions last for the whole year S we enter 2012, power ful New Year resolutions are made and, for a lot of people, their resolution may have involved a promise to improve their health.

In Januar y, people flock to the gym in their droves.

They sign up for the year and resign themselves to get fit, healthy and to lose weight.

Un f o r t u n a t e l y, i n March, the gym numbers always drop off.

Why is it that all of these determined individuals quickly lose their enthusiasm and their resolutions cease to be?

How do you ensure you are one of the few successful people that actually does get fit and manages to sustain their motivation?

Firstly, you need to set reasonable goals. Most people would readily admit that expecting to lose 10 pounds of fat or gain 10 pounds of muscle in two weeks is unrealistic. Yet, subcon-

A

sciously, many people not only want to believe that these results are possible, but that they are actually likely.

When you are waiting for change to happen, progress can seem slow, but, over the long haul, your achievement when looked back on, will be dramatic. Remember, that to scale a mountain you must take one step

will look and feel like a different person.

Secondly, you must progress to see results.

The most impor tant rule in the gym is the overload principle.

You must challenge the body with physical exertion it is not accustomed to, the body then gets stronger and fitter in response.

Therefore, you must

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‘Do whatever it takes to ensure your resolutions are not lost in the winter blues’

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at a time.

If you are currently at 30% body fat and you’re losing 1% fat every month, by the end of a year you will be just 18%.

You will have gone from obese to athletic in one year.

So, that 1% a month might not sound like a lot at the time if you are busting your gut in the gym and watching everything you eat, but by the end of the year you

consistently challenge the body by making the exercise regime harder in order to make it respond more.

When the body has adapted to the form of exercise you are currently doing, you must change your programme and give it a new challenge.

In the words of Albert Einstein: “Insanity is defined as doing the same things over and

over again and expecting the same results.”

We also need to be mentally stimulated in order to keep boredom at bay.

If you find your resolve starting to fade, then try a new challenge such as joining a fitness class or a bootcamp, hire a personal trainer or have a nutritionist work with you.

Do whatever it takes to ensure your resolutions are not lost in the winter blues. If it’s tougher than you had initially expected, don’t give up. Just realise that it makes success taste that much sweeter when you get there.

DTFitness is a health and fitness business that specialises in helping people lose weight and get the body they want.

As a Gazette reader, you can avail of a FREE trial class in either Pilates or Bootcamp.

For further details, simply log onto www.dtfitness.ie or call Derry @085 713 1417.

When you are waiting for change to happen, remember that to scale a mountain you must take one step at a time

19 January 2012 GAZETTE 15

GazetteNUTRITION NUTRITION Time to get your body back to its best

An effective detox diet will aim to help by providing dietary items that will encourage the processing and elimination of toxins

‘The aim of detoxing is to rid the body of toxins that have harmful effects on the body, making us feel tired and drained’

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A healthy gall bladder and urinary system are important to speed up the removal of waste from the body.

Waste products are excreted through the bowels, so healthy bowels will also help. Antioxidant phytochemicals will de-oxidise the body.

A healthy exercise and eating plan is needed for a successful detox.

An effective detox diet will aim to help by providing dietary items that will encourage the processing and elimination of toxins and avoiding all food and drink that might be toxic.

Detoxing doesn’t have to be extreme. A detox plan can include a wide variety of foods.

Here are some suggestions of foods to include, and foods to avoid, when starting your body spring clean.

Foods to include in the plan • Fruit and fruit juice: Make sure ready-made juices are labelled as being ‘pure’ or ‘unsweetened’.

• Vegetables • Beans and lentils, tofu and Quorn, oats and potatoes • Brown rice and rice noodles, rye crackers, rice cakes and oatcakes.

• Fresh fish • Unsalted nuts and unsalted seeds • Plain popcorn • Live natural yoghurt • Extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar • Garlic, ginger and fresh herbs • Ground black pepper • Honey • Water – at least two litres a day. Tap or mineral water is fine.

• Herbal or fruit teas Foods to avoid during your detox • Red meat, chicken, turkey and any meat products like sausages, burgers, and pate • Milk, cheese, eggs, cream • Butter and margarine • Any food that contains wheat, including bread, croissants, cereals, cakes, biscuits, pies, pastry, quiche, battered or breadcrumbed foods, etc • Crisps and savoury

snacks, including salted nuts • Chocolate, sweets, jam and sugar • Processed foods, ready meals, ready-made sauces and takeaways • Alcohol • Coffee and tea • Sauces, pickles, shop-bought salad dressing, mayonnaise • Salt

• Fizzy drinks and squashes, including diet versions

Detox Plan Breakfast • Banana porridge Porridge made with water and topped with natural yoghurt, banana, raisins and sweetened with honey.

Detox Plan Lunch • Vegetable soup and oatcakes • Large bowl of vegetable or lentil soup (either homemade or supermarket ‘fresh’) with oatcakes.

Detox Plan Dinner • Baked salmon with jacket potato Bake a salmon fillet

and serve with a jacket potato and steamed vegetables.

Detox Snack Plan • Tzatziki with crudites Ho m e m a d e t z a t z iki made from natural yoghurt, garlic, cucumber and lemon juice served with vegetable crudites and oatcakes.

gazette

photos

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All our galleries are now online for you to buy

.com

IT’S January, the days are still dark, cold and summer seems like a distant dream.

The excessive food and drink consumption that tasted so good over the holidays has finally caught up with you.

Add everyday stress and pollution to the equation and you’re probably feeling exhausted, and your body is screaming out for a thorough spring clean.

Time to clear out, refresh and re-energise – time for a “detox”.

T he concept of a d e t ox i n g h a s b e e n debated. Does it really work and exactly what does it involve?

The aim of detoxing is to rid the body of toxins that have harmful effects on the body, making us feel tired and drained.

The most important detoxing jobs are carried out by the liver.

The liver converts the body’s own waste materials – such as ammonia (a poison produced when the body proteins are broken down) and outside toxins such as alcohol (which many people may have overindulged in over Christmas) into less harmful components for excretion.

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LEILA JOHARI

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16 GAZETTE 19 January 2012

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Destination Seville for a holy, lovely trip to relish BLISS YOURSELF: STEP OUT ON A PILGRIM’S HOLIDAY

Brides and grooms invited to the Bridge House Wedding Fair

a few precious moments of privacy.

Located less than 90 minutes from Dublin, Galway and Limerick, the Bridge House Hotel has more than 40 years of experience, and a long-standing reputation of being one of the midland’s most popular hotels for wedding receptions and civil ceremonies.

Anyone who books their wedding at the hotel before the end of January will be in with a chance to win a dream Mediterranean cruise honeymoon.

For further details, visit the hotel’s dedicated wedding website at http://tullamore-weddings.bridgehouse.com.

YOUR

THE Bridge House Hotel in Tullamore, Co Offaly, is inviting brides and grooms to join them at their annual wedding fair this weekend.

The Bridge House Hotel will showcase its fantastic new wedding packages at the hotel on Sunday, January 22, from 2pm until 6pm.

Couples can view the stunning wedding facilities at the hotel, which includes venues for civil ceremonies, large and smaller wedding receptions.

Bridge House’s dedicated wedding team will be on hand to help with any queries, and show the stunning Secret Garden at the hotel.

The Secret Garden is designed to be a prime spot for wedding party pictures, as well as a little area for brides and grooms to hide away for

SELL SALE ADVERTISE YOUR SEASONAL SALE WITH THE GAZETTE... ...THE BEST LOW COST ADVERTISING FOR YOUR BUSINESS

CALL US NOW ON 60 10 240

MIMI MURRAY

HE Semana Santa – also known as Holy Week, in English – is one of the biggest religious celebrations in the world.

The most notable celebration takes place in the Spanish city of Seville from April 1 to April 7.

The Semana Santa is considered to be the most important event of the year in Spain, and both Holy Thursday and Good Friday are now bank holidays in Spain.

During the Semana Santa celebrations, people flood the streets, whether they are Seville inhabitants or world travellers.

Between Palm Sunday and Easter, beautiful and solemn processions take place during the days, followed by colourful and lively parties at night.

Flamenco dancers, dressed in typical costumes with traditional music from Andalusia, bring an incomparable atmosphere, creating an unforgettable time.

As the most famous of all the Semana Santa celebrations, accommodation and flights for Seville book out months in advance.

T

However, Camino Ways, the walking and cycling holiday specialists, can ensure that travellers are part of these celebrations.

With Camino Ways, travellers will enjoy this wonderful week in the region of Andalucia. As part of an all-inclusive Holy Week offer, travellers will get the chance to walk the Camino de la Plata in Seville from April 1, Palm Sunday, until April 5, Good Friday.

This one-of-a-kind walking experience will finish in Monesterio which allows travellers to experience Good Friday celebrations in this pretty little town.

Once travellers have enjoyed all that Monesterio has to offer, they will then be transferred to Seville, where they can enjoy Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday.

This holiday with a difference with Camino Ways costs from €850pps, or from €950 for a single.

It includes return airport transfers, luggage transfer from hotel to hotel, en-suite rooms, half-board accommodation during the hike, a holiday pack (containing notes, maps, language

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Travellers will enjoy this wonderful week in Andalucia, as part of an all-inclusive Holy Week offer

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Pilgrims can avail of a celebratory Camino Ways holiday, taking in Semana Santa events en route

book, what to bring, “pilgrim passport”), and transfer from Monesterio to Seville, and two extra nights in Seville (Saturday and Easter Sunday).

The price does not include return flights.

To book, or for further information, visit www. caminoways.com, or call 01 525 2886.

19 January 2012 GAZETTE 17

Edited by Mimi Murray

IN ONE OF SPAIN’S MOST BEAUTIFUL AND HISTORIC REGIONS

FastTravel

Head Nord to Copenhagen for a cooking festival with a difference PLANNING a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day? Then, perhaps, Copenhagen is the setting for a Valentine’s with a difference.

This capital city has a host of events taking place this February, including the Copenhagen Cooking Festival.

This cooking festival is great news for those on a New Year’s diet, as research shows that those who eat the “New Nordic” diet on a daily basis lose more than those on an average diet.

One of the highlights of the month-long festival will be the lumpfish roe safari, during which, participants will cycle between four restaurants, all of which will serve their interpretation of Scandinavia’s “caviar”.

Visit www.flysas.ie to book.

Pilgrims, locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the unmistakable colour, energy, and devotion of a Semana Santa procession in Seville

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Flamenco dancers, dressed in typical costumes with traditional music from Andalusia, bring an incomparable atmosphere ------------------------

18 GAZETTE 19 January 2012

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Singing Nina

THE Gazette has been mentioning this upcoming show for some weeks now, but that’s because The Pavilion’s hosting of Singing Nina remains an early highlight for 2012. Chicago jazz queen Karen Underwood and her band are bringing the music of Nina Simone to life on Friday, January 20. Mixing Nina’s music with her life story, music and jazz fans will be delighted to hear Nina’s music celebrated in style. Catch Singing Nina at 8pm, with tickets priced €16/€18.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Frankie Gannan & De Dannan

THE Mill Theatre has lined up another top-notch show, courtesy of the fastest fiddle player in the world, Frankie Gavin. The Guinness Book of Records star will dazzle audiences with his musical talents, with De Dannan providing exemplary music, as they, and Frankie, create a show of outstanding Irish music. Catch Frankie Gannan & De Dannan on Saturday, January 21 at 8pm, with tickets priced €20/€18.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Field of Dreams

AS PART of its commitment to hosting a wide range of entertainment, Draiocht’s popular Film Club sees Field of Dreams set for broadcast at the theatre. The 1989 film, starring Kevin Costner, is a life-affirming story on some of the mysteries of life, and the afterlife – all courtesy of a baseball pitch that a driven farmer builds in his cornfield ...

See Field of Dreams on Tuesday, January 24, at 3pm, with tickets priced €5/€3 conc/€7 non-members.

Kate Beckinsale returns for another cut of the vampire genre, with the latest in the long-running Underworld franchise returning to carry on the long-running feud between vampires and lycans – and now with humans added ...

This howler sucks ...

Lycans and vampires and babes, oh my! If ever Buffy the Vampire Slayer was needed at the cinema, it’s now.

Q KATE CROWLEY

AWWWW. Dear readers, I have something awful to share with you. Are you both sitting comfortably?

Then I’ll begin.

The Tempest – you know, that horribly Luvvie-esque film, starring Helen Mirren, and also starring – and I use the term very loosely, here – Russell Brand, has finally disappeared from the Irish Film Censor’s release schedule, after never quite making it to general public release here last year.

I’ll assume that, much like international audiences, Dubliners just weren’t interested in seeing some seasoned hams prancing around an island, Luvvie-ing it up in a tribute to Shakespeare, with the Brand of low quality attached.

Losing a reliable film to mock like this is enough to make a Crowley’s cornflakes curl, I tell you!

FILM OF THE WEEK: Underworld: Awakening + (18) 88 mins Directors: Mans Marlind, Bjorn Stein Starring: Kate Beckinsale, Stephen Rea, Charles Dance, lots of slo-mo, explosions, and angst

OUR VERDICT: BEST to leave Aunty Pamela at home for this one – and to stay home with her, while you’re at it as, unless you’re a somewhat undiscerning teenager (in which case, this film probably scores 7 out of 5), there’s precious little to recommend this Goth-damn awful vampire film – apart from the welcome sight of the end credits, which come flapping into view before the meagre 90-minute mark ...

True, that doesn’t make much sense, but it makes at least as much sense as this week’s film: Underworld Awakening.

If there’s one thing that that regular readers (yes, either of you) know, it’s how much I love vampire films, and particularly films that appear to be aimed at rather undemanding teenagers.

Step forward, the latest in the Underworld series!

Similar to the long-running Resident Evil series, the Underworld series – which I’ll call UW, for short (pronounced

“Ewww”) – has been chased around cinema screens for years by angry mobs of critics wielding pitchforks, chair legs and notebooks, yet have performed reasonably well, despite their reliably savage reviews.

And, indeed, UW Awakening – which I’ll shorten to UW-AW (pronounced: “Oh-ah”) – is a savage film.

Here, long-suffering vampire babe Selene (Beckinsale) is beset by a new twist in the longrunning feud between Vampires and Lycans (yer garden variety were-

wolves, to you and me).

This time, them meddlin’ humans have only gone and learned that the supernatural races really exist, haven’t they?

Err, yes.

And so it is that, moving right along, Selene’s been nabbed and held in Ye Olde Secret Base for years, so that some of the Dr Humans/lunch types (hello, Stephen Rea) can study her, and also carry out a campaign to eradicate the Vampires and Lycans, once and for all.

What’s a gal to do?

Why, break out, slaughter the guards, and set off to reunite the races against a common enemy – Man – and all while wearing extra shiny, skin-tight leather, of course!

Umm... so far, so staggeringly similar to the previous films in the series. Ah, but wait, there’s more! Apart from fighting with each other, and a super-powered uber-beastie that’s also

on the loose, everybody’s also chasing a mysterious girl-hybrid-creature, who could hold the key to all the races’ future, and – Okay, that’s enough. An hour with UW is enough to make two hours with Nicolas Cage’s latest seem inviting, by comparison.

Dour, sour, dreary and gory – and that’s even before the lashings and lashings of gratuitous slow-mo and violence, it’s fangs, but no fangs, for this particularly silly low point in the increasingly toothless vampire genre.

On the plus side, having two foul films in a row to review cheers me up no end – almost enough to overlook Stephen Rea gamely propping up the supporting cast, here.

So, to summarise, this UW-AW is a no-no, which is a perfect time for me-me to go bye-bye. See ya later, suckers! (Just not those of the cliched vampire variety, one would hope.)

D U B L I N G A Z E T T E N E W S P A P E R S

19 January 2012 GAZETTE 19 13 January 2011 GAZETTE 19

JAN 2012

COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS Exploring THIRD-LEVEL education for all

Going to the next level:

Be it further study, re-skilling, part-time or full-time Threemendous:: mendous Sisters Therese, Valya and Maria O’Donovan take a look at plans for Rosemont school

On the ball: ball: In conversation with two students taking part in the UCD Soccer Scholarship Page 22

Jedward Re-skilling: factor: The RDS Roisin Ni Mhorain to host the on how there National arePostgraduate far worse role models than the Further twins fromFair Lucan Study in Page 29 February

20 GAZETTE 19 January 2012

COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS

Exploring third-level education

Making your business from children’s future BUCKING the recessionary trends, Kumon Educational, one of Ireland’s leading independent education providers, has continued to grow over the last few years.

Demand for Kumon’s study programmes has never been higher, which is why Kumon are looking for success-focused individuals with a passion for developing children to open maths and English study centres at numerous locations across the country.

Leigh Goodman is the instructor at the Mallow Kumon Study Centre.

“As a business, being a Kumon Instr uctor provides the opportuni-

ty to be self-employed, but within a group with a worldwide presence and a proven track record,” he said.

David Browne has been the Instructor at the Wicklow Kumon Study Centre since 2009.

He discovered Kumon on a family holiday when he saw his three-yearold niece completing worksheets and decided to investigate further.

“I decided to become a Kumon Instr uctor because I could see the difference Kumon was making in children’s lives.

“I also wanted to run my own business with the flexibility to fit my work around my life.

“I hugely enjoy my

position because I can see directly the changes in my students.

“I should have become an instructor years ago,” he says.

There are opportunities to open new Kumon maths and English study centres throughout Ireland.

Opportunity Those interested in this unique business opportunity can attend one of the Kumon franchise information sessions taking place in Dublin on January 21 and 22 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown.

Spaces are limited; to book, call 1 800 523 191.

Visit www.kumon.ie/ franchise for more information.

Their three-mendous interest: Looking at a new school’s plans SISTERS, and pupils at Rosemont Blackrock, Therese, Valya and Maria O’Donovan, from Leopardstown, are pictured taking a close look at the plans for the new Rosemont school in Sandyford, which is going up at a fast pace.

The roof is already on one section of the building – proof that the opening date of September is well on track.

Located on Enniskerry Road, past Lamb’s Cross, on a 10-acre site, Rosemont School will be an all-girl, fee-paying secondary school, and will offer students a broad curriculum. The school’s top-notch facilities will include all-weather playing pitches, a fully-equipped gym, excellent science facilities and an extensive library. The school, which will be housed in a 5,460 sq m building, plans to offer these facilities to the local community outside of school hours.

There has been tremendous interest in the school, as shown by the attendances at the recent Open Days in Sandyford Community Centre, and in the level of contact with the school which is, at present, in Blackrock, and first opened in 1977.

Speaking about the new school, Margaret Kelly, principal, Rosemont School, said: “We are excited about offering the community a girls’ secondary school which will provide a completely rounded education, focusing on pastoral care, as well as academic excellence. We are also very happy to be opening our facilities to the community, outside of school hours.”

Rosemont School is currently located at Temple Hill, Blackrock. For further information about the new school, call 01 283 3855 or see www.rosemont.ie.

19 January 2012 GAZETTE 21

Essential reading for Leaving Cert students

| HIGHER EDUCATION |

Aiming to reach your potential ARE you considering third-level education?

Open your mind and create your own future at IADT. The time spent in higher education is an important and defining time in a student’s life. It is a period that allows a person to reach their potential in their chosen area of study, to meet people, to gain new experiences and to make choices about their future path. It is a time when students set ambitious goals for themselves and their futures.

The Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT), also sets ambi-

tious goals of providing students with a high-quality and relevant education that allows students to take their skills and knowledge into employment, self-employment or further study.

IADT graduates are successful in the creative and cultural industries, in the sciences, arts, technology and business.

IADT specialises in creativity, entrepreneurship and innovation in the digital age. Their vision is to be at the forefront of teaching research and innovation at the convergence of the arts, technology and enterprise and

to contribute to Ireland’s development as a creative and innovative economy.

IADT offers a learning environment that caters for students as individuals. Small class groups, and a project-oriented approach, ensure a high level of learning support.

IADT students enjoy excellent library, computing, studio, sports (with a wide range of clubs and societies) facilities, and a comprehensive range of student services.

For more information on IADT, please log onto www.iadt.ie. CAO application deadline: February 1, 2012.

The IADT Campus offers a range of excellent facilities

22 GAZETTE 19 January 2012

COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS

Exploring third-level education

UCD is on the ball with its soccer scheme David O’Connor is one of those availing of the UCD Soccer Scholarship to improve his soccer, develop future opportunities and advance his education

IT WAS more than 20 years ago when the UCD Soccer Scholarship was born. With it came opportunity, and lots of it.

For many years, the benchmark of success in football in Ireland

has been the impact a player has made across the water in Britain, but UCD, and UCD AFC in particular, are looking to change this.

UCD seeks to ensure young Irish talent stays in Ireland, to develop as a player in the highest league in the country, but also to develop as a person, and as a student.

The deadline for applications for the UCD Soccer Scholarship is Friday, April 27.

Scholarship students leave UCD with a greater footballing ability, but also the skills and expertise to give them independence off the football field so they can grow and mature into more than the footballer they dream of.

Paul Corry and David O’Connor are following this dream. Both currently occupy starting berths in UCD AFC’s first team, competing in the Airtricity League Premier Division, but it is far from the bright lights of the grandest stage in Irish soccer they started.

O’Connor grew up in Trim, County Meath, and attended Boyne Community School; Corry attended school on the north side of Dublin, in Belvedere College. Both played their schoolboy football with Belvedere FC. It was at Belvedere where their paths first crossed, and they would

Paul Corry is following his dream to play football professionally through UCD’s Soccer Scholarship

make acquaintance again during the scholarship trials.

Having shone on the practise fields, they were offered scholarships, and their quest to become Premier Division footballers began.

The rewards are obvious – playing in the Airtricity League Premier Division brings its own rewards, not least the chance to play against the best in Ireland, but also the exposure that goes with it.

It is no secret that it takes a lot of hard work to reach the top but, at UCD, it takes that little bit more.

Balancing college work, training, gym work and Airtricity League matches, as well as repre-

senting the university in Intervarsity games, is no mean feat.

Corry says: “It is difficult at times. It is hard to meet deadlines for assignments and, at the same time, not lose focus on the football end of thing.

“I find it a challenge to balance it all, but it helps me focus,” is Corry’s, perhaps unique, perspective.

Either way, both are in the final throes of Commerce and Arts Degrees, respectively.

UCD can be a daunting place, Paul Corry reckons that is what makes it so appealing, He says: “The best thing about UCD is the people. You will always find someone willing to help.”

It is clear that both players appreciate what they have received, as O’Connor says.

“The brand of football we play, the support systems we have, and the young group of players at the club mean that I am a much better player because of UCD.” Corry sums it up best when he says: “The UCD Soccer Scholarship has helped me learn a lot about life, on and off the pitch, and given me great opportunities in both football and life.”

That is what UCD Soccer Club set out to do, some 20 years ago, and the goal still remains the same.

To find out more, see www.ucdsoccer.com/ scholarships.

19 January 2012 GAZETTE 23

Essential reading for Leaving Cert students

| BOARD OF SCIENCE FOUNDATION IRELAND |

New director general for SFI THE Board of Science Foundation Ireland (SFI), has appointed Professor Mark Ferguson as director general of the organisation. Professor Ferguson, a native of Northern Ireland, took up the five-year appointment on January 16.

A leading academic for 30 years, Professor Ferguson is also a co-founder of Renovo, a biotechnology company developing novel pharmaceutical therapies to prevent scarring and accelerate wound healing.

Welcoming Prof Ferguson’s appointment, Prof Pat Fottrell, chair-

person of SFI, said: “The SFI Board is delighted, following an extensive international recruitment process that commenced last year, to appoint Prof Ferguson as director general. Prof Ferguson’s track record over the past three decades has been one of continued excellence in both the academic and commercial spheres, and his arrival marks the start of a new stage in SFI’s journey.”

Commenting on his appointment, Prof Ferguson stated: “We live in exciting times for science, where endeavour and ingenuity are mak-

ing a notable impact on the world around us.

Through determination, sustained investment and the convergence of expertise across scientific, engineering and commercial disciplines, Ireland has leaped up the international rankings for its quality of research output.

“I am relishing the opportunity of working closely with SFI’s board, staff, esteemed research community, commercial and other partners, to help continue this level of progress and influence.

I am passionate about science, its commercial exploitation and its soci-

Professor Mark Ferguson, who has been appointed director general of Science Foundation Ireland

etal and economic benefits.”

Born in Northern Ireland, Prof Ferguson is a graduate of Queen’s University of Belfast with degrees in Dentistry (BDS first-class honours), Anatomy and Embryology (BSc first-class hon-

ours, PhD) and Medical Sciences (DMedSc) .

He holds Fellowships from the Royal Colleges of Surgeons in Ireland (FFD) and Edinburgh (FDS) and is a Founding Fellow of the UK Academy of Medical Sciences (FMedSci).

Prof Ferguson was appointed Professor in Life Sciences at the University of Manchester in 1984, at the age of just 28.

He is current Honorary Professor of Life Sciences at the University. His research interests include cellular and molecular

mechanisms in scarring and wound healing, developmental mechanisms in normal and cleft palate formation.

Prof Ferguson is the recipient of numerous international awards, prizes, medals and honours for his research.

24 GAZETTE 19 January 2012

COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS

Exploring third-level education

Sample what’s on offer | ADVICE ON COLLEGE LIFE | at Sallynoggin this month SALLYNOGGIN College of Further Education will hold its annual Open Day on Thursday, January 26, from 10.00am to 2.00pm.

The College has a wide range of courses on offer and all are welcome to drop in on the day.

Teachers and current students will be available to discuss life in the college, as well as the wide variety of opportunities available. There will also be an opportunity to find out about grants, funding options and childcare facilities, view student portfolios and exhibitions of work, as well as the facilities the college offers.

The college has a reputation for excellence in the area of further education, and many students have achieved interna-

tional recognition in the areas of fashion, photography and sports to mention just a few.

Students from the photography department are organising an exhibition, Don’t Think Twice, on the Open Day, which celebrates the work of well-known photographers who have passed through the college.

Fashion show Students of Fashion Industry Practice are producing a fashion show as part of their course, on March 28 in the Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire, in aid of the charity Dress for Success, and will be promoting this event on the day.

Call 01-2852997 or visit www.scfe.ie, reception@scfe.ie

Get the right course for you

NOW, more than ever, employers are looking for highly-skilled and trained graduates.

W hen selecting a course it is vital to

choose a course that is recognised, reputable and relevant to the workforce requirements.

Rathmines College offers a range of one-, two - and three-year study options in key skill areas.

The college is a longestablished centre providing certificate, advanced certificate, diploma and professional courses.

The college specialises in the areas of Business, Office Administration, Media, PR, Marketing, IT, Liberal Arts, Accounting, Finance and Legal Studies. Certificate and Advanced Certificate courses are certified by FETAC, the two-year

Rathmines College offers a range of one-, two- and three-year study options in key skill areas

Higher National Diploma courses are certified by BTEC, and the Professional courses by the relevant professional body, ACCA, IATI, PRII. It is a student-centred, dynamic provider constantly developing and adapting courses to suit leaner and employer needs and most courses include work experience.

W hile the courses can equip learners to go

straight into the work place they also provide opportunities to progress on to Institutes of Technology or Universities, in many cases with exemptions.

This means students who successfully complete relevant awards can gain access to year two or three of many degree programmes.

As a college of Further Education the courses are all State-funded and so minimum charges apply.

The College also offers Repeat Leaving Certifi-

cate with 80% of of the students progressing to Third Level (according to the Irish Times, November 2011).

Fees for repeat LC are €300 - a fraction of the cost of private providers.

Students also progress to FETAC, BTEC and Professional courses within the College.

The College is holding an Open Day on Thursday, January 26, in the Town Hall, Rathmines from 3pm to 7pm.

Contact the College at 4975334 or www.rathminescollege.ie

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19 January 2012 GAZETTE 25

Essential reading for Leaving Cert students

Students celebrate HeadsUp Movie Awards success THE Institute of Technology in Blanchardstown’s Year 3 Creative Digital Media students Stephen Allen, Ciaran Lowry, Kevin McGuiness and Luke Byrne were declared the winners at the 2011 HeadsUp Movie Awards.

Their short film, Daydream, was awarded an impressive first place in the over 18’s category.

The winners picked up a cheque for €2,500 and their entry was broadcast on RTE Two’s Two Tube.

They also get a lifetime opportunity to shadow a leading film-maker or animator for a day.

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

The winners picked up a cheque for €2,500 and their entry was broadcast on RTE Two’s Two Tube

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

Industry experts, including film-maker Kirsten Sheridan, of The Factory, animator Nicky Phelan, of Brown Bag Films, and Sheila de Courcy, RTE Commissioning Editor RTE Young People’s Programmes, selected eight entries to go forward to the public vote where over 7,000 votes were cast.

This short film competition was organised

by HeadsUp.ie, a mental health promotion project and was supported by Two Tube, RTE Two, and the National Office for Suicide Prevention’s Let Someone Know campaign.

This was part of an initiative to end the stigma concerning the issue and entries explored how young people can be encouraged to look after their mental health.

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

Stephen Allen, Ciaran Lowry, Kevin McGuiness and Luke Byrne pick up their €2,500 HeadsUp Movie Award prize

26 GAZETTE 19 January 2012

COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS Make real choices with CFE Dundrum THE College of Further Education in Dundrum is one of the leading providers of Post Leaving Certificate and Adult Retraining courses in the areas of Dundrum, Ballinteer, Rathfarnham, Churchtown, Sandyford and further afield.

The college has an open and supportive approach to education and training, and has a long-established reputation for providing first-class, well-trained graduates.

Students can chose from a wide variety of courses leading to FETAC certification in the areas of business, computing/ multimedia, health and community care, and creative studies.

Further Education offers learners an alternative pathway into Higher Education other than the Leaving Certificate route.

For mature students, it offers an opportunity to return to education and progress through the advanced entry route to third-level studies. Some of their courses, such as computing, link directly into year two on degree programmes.

The College has established many links

with Higher Education establishments over the years, including DIT, Blanchardstown IT, Dun Laoighaire College of Art and Design, Botanic Gardens and a number of UK universities.

Graduates are currently employed in a variety of companies that include Hewlett Packard, Intel, HSE, Cocoon, and local businesses. The positive links to the workforce and Higher Education allow them to maintain a first-class service to their students.

Recently, they launched a new social networking initiative on their website, www.cfedundrum.com.

The online service allows visitors and students interact with all support services within the college.

Students now access the college’s cloud applications with the support from Google, which includes email, eLearning, and calendaring.

Applications from prospective students can be made online through their site from February 1, and continue throughout the summer. All courses commence in September each year.

Exploring third-level education

| ADVICE ON COLLEGE LIFE |

Marian, Fiona and Berit of Here2help can advise on crisis pregnancy

Crisis pregnancy and how to cope HERE2HELP is a small agency that offers crisis pregnancy services through their bases in Rathfarnham and Cavan.

The counsellors, Fiona and Berit, regularly come

in contact with students who are experiencing unplanned pregnancies.

Many of these do decide to go through with the pregnancy and keep the child; however, the shock and upheaval that the teenager experiences during this time can be overwhelming, and this is where seeking support from one of the agencies, such as Here2Help, can be valuable.

We are living in the 21st century Ireland, and the reality of these times is that many young people are engaging in sexual activity, even though the legal age of consent to have sexual intercourse in Ireland is 17 years of age.

This does not appear to stop individuals as young as early teens engaging in sexual activity.

T here has been a remarkable increase in prevention services in places like schools and youth services focusing on educating young people in prevention of crisis

pregnancy.

But, there is only one guarantee in preventing a crisis pregnancy, and that is abstinence. For those who do not fall into this category, and are engaging in sexual activity, what steps can they take to protect themselves from a crisis pregnancy or Sexually Transmitted Disease (STI’s)?

For people who do decide to engage in sexual activity, like any behaviour in life, they need to be aware of the risks involved. In this case, there can be lifelong implications; it only takes one time to have sex to get pregnant or get an STI.

Myths There are a lot of myths about sex amongst young people. One of which is that “you cannot get pregnant having sex standing up”, another is that “you cannot get pregnant during your period”, both of these are untrue.

One of the safest forms

of protection is accurate information, that is having all of the facts and ensuring that these facts are accurate from a reliable source so that when it comes to making the decision to have sex or to have sex again, this decision is an informed onebased on the real facts.

This includes knowing and valuing your own beliefs and attitudes towards sex, and knowing the difference between having sex because you want to have sex, or because you feel pressured by someone else, be it a partner or friends.

If you are having sex because this is something that you feel you are ready to do then you need to know the real facts about the risks involved and the possible lifelong implications.

T here are many resources at your fingertips, and getting accurate information on facts about sexual relationships is as easy as sourcing information about

your favourite clothes, artist, game, actor or team.

There is a resourceful and safe website developed by the HSE Crisis Pregnancy Programme called www.b4udecide. ie.

Information This website provides “the facts without a lecture”, it has information on relationships, contraception, STIs, teenage pregnancy, communication and important questions that you might want to consider before making the decision to have sex, or to have sex again You do have a choice, there is support, so make sure you get accurate information and be safe.

If you, or anyone you know, is affected by any of these issues, or want to avail of a free pregnancy test service, they can contact Here2Help’s counsellors on our Helpline 1850 67 3333 or visit www.here2help.ie

19 January 2012 GAZETTE 27

Essential reading for Leaving Cert students

| DEVELOPMENTS IN EDUCATION |

New resource pack for ADHD released A NEW resource to help parents, teachers and carers in supporting schoolage children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been launched.

The comprehensive toolkit, which offers practical advice in managing children who suffer from this condition, has been developed by Shire Ireland, in collaboration with ADHD-Europe (the European umbrella patient organisation) and an ADHD awareness taskforce, comprising some of Europe’s top experts in the field.

Designed by peers,

based on their wealth of experience, the toolkit provides the materials to enable teachers, parents and carers to work together more effectively, with the shared aim of helping each child with ADHD to achieve their full potential.

A disorder characterised by significant and impairing difficulties in levels of concentration, activity and impulsivity, ADHD accounted for 34% of cases from the total of 1,897 children and adolescents who were waiting to be seen for an initial mental health assessment at the

end of September, 2011, according to the latest figures available in the third annual child and adolescent mental health report from the HSE. Dublin GAA star, and primary school teacher, Shane Ryan, who helped launch the initiative, said: “From a teacher’s perspective, this is a helpful, practical resource to access advice on assisting children in the classroom who suffer from ADHD.” The ADHD Partnership support pack, which consists of five books, is free and downloadable from the website www. adhdandyou.ie.

Dublin GAA Star Shane Ryan, launching the ADHD resource pack

28 GAZETTE 19 January 2012

COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS

Exploring third-level education

| ADVICE ON FURTHER EDUCATION |

LOCALMATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZETTE CALL 60 10 240

Hotel Operations students at September’s Colaiste Ide graduation ceremony

Interest in night classes booming NORTH Dublin night classes enrolment began this week at Colaiste Ide, a further education institution in Finglas.

The college is enrolling for evening courses in subjects ranging from business to beauty, and the director of its Night School depar tment, Aidan Woods, said that “there has never been a better time” to return to higher education.

“For those who want to equip themselves for the difficulties of the coming years, there has never been a better time to upskill,” the Colaiste Ide representative said.

“As economic needs change, people will want to develop their range of qualifications and prepare for the upturn in years to come.”

For business-oriented students there are courses

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

‘It’s an informal setting, there’ll be lots of people trying their hand at something for the first time’ -------------------------Childcare students graduating at Colaiste Ide

in Start Your Own Business and Tax Returns.

There are also courses in childcare, haulage (Certificate in Professional Competence), design (AutoCAD), computers, embroidery, community care, beauty, languages and leisure, as well as a number of new professional courses and hobby programmes.

Woods urged anyone

who has an interest in a course, but is not sure what to do, to contact the college and discuss their queries or concerns with him or other staff.

“I would say to someone at the present time not to hesitate — as things are, it’s a good time to try something new or to increase employability, and those who haven’t been in education for a

long time have nothing to fear.

“It’s an informal setting here, and there’ll be lots of people just like you who are trying their hand at something new for the first time,” he said.

See their blog at www. colaisteidenightschool. wordpress.com The college can be contacted on Facebook, by calling (01) 8342333 or by emailing general. enquiries@cdvec.ie

19 January 2012 GAZETTE 29

Essential reading for Leaving Cert students

| THIRD-LEVEL UNDER ONE ROOF |

Your options for further study THE best way to explore your options if you are thinking about further study, re-skilling or parttime or full-time courses, is to attend the National Postgraduate Further Study Fair.

The fair takes place in the RDS on February 15 and admission is free for those who pre-register to attend on the postgradireland.com website.

This fair is hosted by the Association of Higher Education Careers Services.

Careers advisers from universities and ITs will be in attendance to answer your queries, help

with personal statements and advise which course or college would be best for you.

There will also be a funding pavilion, set up specifically to help and advise on all aspects of finance and student debt, specifically where and how you can apply for funding or loans.

A series of free specialist careers seminars will also run during the day covering conversion courses, applications, distance learning and more.

Over 100 colleges promoting 1000s of courses from Ireland, the UK and further afield will

be exhibiting. It really is an unmissable opportunity to talk to the experts and explore your further study options. So, if you are thinking about a new career direction or focusing on boosting your employability, make sure you pre-register for free entry and come along.

You will find all the information you need on one day in one place.

All attendees will receive a goody bag containing a free postgradireland directory, which lists many of the course options available and contains essential information and advice on

where to get funding and how to make an application.

Postgradireland Further Study Fair, RDS Main Hall, Dublin, 1-6pm, February 15, 2012.

Visit www.postgradireland.com for further details on the event.

Those thinking about further study, re-skilling, parttime or full-time courses should explore the National Postgraduate Further Study fair at the RDS in February

30 GAZETTE 19 January 2012

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Pat Caulfield, partner, Caulfield Dunne Accountants, Clondalkin

Career adds up to experience

Caulfield Dunne Accountants partners, Pat Caulfield and Brian Dunne

CAULFIELD Dunne Accountants is a Clondalkin firm of Certified Public Accountants and Registered Auditors, with more than 40 years’ experience in developing clients’ businesses.

The practice has experience in all areas of accountancy, from bookkeeping and payroll to all tax returns, annual accounts, tax planning, corporate services and revenue compliance.

Pat Caulfield is a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland (CPA), and is also a qualified accountant technician IATI, and has numerous software accounting qualifications.

His career spans practice, industry, finance, construction, retail and hospitality. Pat held a number of senior financial controller positions for more than ten years across a number of business sectors, before starting his own practice.

His client portfolio covers a broad range of clients in many sectors, including engineering, construction, manufacturing, leisure, service, IT, retail, and not-forprofit organisations

He has a wealth of experience across the board, from business start-up to development, promotion, wealth and tax planning and management.

Pat can be contacted directly at pcaulfield@ caulfielddunne.ie.

Brian Dunne, CPA, is a Qualified Certified Accountant with more than 18 years’ experience in accountancy, including senior roles in both industry and practice.

He has previously been employed as a financial controller of a multinational company, where he gained valuable experience of managing business.

Brian has spent the last number of years working in practice, and is a registered auditor. Contact Brian directly at bdunne@caulfielddunne.ie.

The firm says that whatever the business, it is confident it can meet clients’ needs, and provide a professional and competitive service for all requirements.

Pat took time out from his then Christmas planning to talk to The Gazette about some of his influences and personal details.

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

A: Playing centre forward for Arsenal and Ireland.

Q: What was your first job?

A: Lounge boy in the local pub.

Q: And your first paycheque?

A: About IR£12.

Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed?

A: No. Q: When did you start your present job?

A: September, 2004.

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Assisting clients in growing their business.

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

A: I ran a marathon.

Q: What part of your working day do you

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‘delegate’?

A: None.

Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be?

A: My Christmas list.

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

A: No. Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Soccer and Gaelic football.

Q: What sport can you play?

A: I’m still playing soccer (over-35s), if that counts.

Q: What habits would you like to lose?

A: Eat healthier.

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

A: The Christmas break.

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

A: Comedy movies.

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

A: Jedward.

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: The Script, David Gray and Bruce Springsteen.

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: I don’t spend much time on either.

Q: What was your last Tweet/Facebook status update?

A: I uploaded some family photos on Facebook.

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Steak and chips with Obama.

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

A: Enda Kenny.

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: On my children.

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: About eight.

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Palma in Spain; it rained for the week.

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: I really enjoyed Florida.

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Playing centreforward for Arsenal and Ireland.

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

A: As soon as possible.

19 January 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY CASTLEKNOCK: FOUR-BEDROOM LUXURY IN THE REGION OF €800,000

Stunning family home in Dublin 15 RARELY does a home of such distinction come to the market, having been fully refurbished to the highest standards just recently.

Number 139, Georgian Village, in Castleknock, is in showhouse condition throughout, having been tastefully redecorated by interior designers both internally and externally.

This home includes a variety of extras, with no expense spared, including new windows, kitchen, bathrooms, floor coverings and wardrobes all replaced to the highest specification.

Offering spacious, wellproportioned accommodation, this family home is located in a most prestigious location within walking distance of all amenities Castleknock has to offer, including shops, schools, transport links and the Phoenix Park The ground floor features an entrance porch leading to a reception hall that boasts a tiled floor, a door to the rear garden, a downstairs WC with WHB, tiled floor, part-tiled walls as well as an under-stairs cupboard.

A roomy lounge impresses with a marble fireplace and remote control gas fire.

Moving in to the dining room, there is a solid oak wood floor and double doors that lead to the large family room, also featuring a solid oak floor, a limestone fireplace, marble hearth and gas fire with remote

control, fitted wall units and a door to the rear garden.

The kitchen comes complete with a range of Bream fitted press units, a tiled floor, a cooker, hob, oven and microwave. An integrated fridge, washing machine and dishwasher is also included.

A second door to the rear garden is also a feature of the kitchen.

A study with solid oak wood floor and door to the property’s double garage also features on the ground floor.

The garage has electric sliding doors, fitted units, and it is plumbed for a dryer Upstairs, there are four spacious bedrooms, all featuring built-in wardrobes. There is also a fully tiled shower room with shower, WC and WHB. The front garden has a cobble-locked drive and is bordered by cast-iron railings and sliding electric gates.

A landscaped, southfacing rear garden is bordered by mature hedgerows and boasts a granite patio area with attractive water feature and a large garden shed with ESB This most impressive home comes with OFCH, PVC double glazing, is fully alarmed and includes an intercom system and electronic gates.

Please note that viewing is strictly by prior appointment. Contact Newcombe Estates on 01 861 4440, email info@ newcombeestates.ie, or visit www.newcombeestates.ie.

HOMES: NEW YEAR SALES

Massive savings with Woodie’s

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

‘This home includes a variety of extras, including windows, kitchen, bathrooms, floor coverings and wardrobes all replaced to the highest specification’ --------------------------

The contemporary kitchen at Number 139, Georgian Village in Castleknock

This exceptional Dublin 15 home has a wealth of impresive features both inside and out

WOODIE’S DIY have huge savings across many ranges in their January sale, with fantastic value and huge reductions on DIY, decorative, homestyle, gardening products and much more.

Those hoping to spruce up their home for spring can expect great value, with 20% off all paint, wallpaper, flooring and light fittings. Now is the perfect time to freshen up the house, and with 50% off selected flatpack furniture, a new piece is a great bargain worth adding to your DIY job list.

DIY enthusiasts can also expect great value, with all power tools, hand tools and toolboxes reduced by 20%. Selected hand tools have also been reduced by a massive 50%, so there has never been a better time to make some improvements around the house!

Reward your hard work with a delicious homecooked meal – with 20% off all frying pans, bakeware, dinnerware, kitchen utensils and much more; now is the perfect time for budding home chefs to stock up on quality cookware.

Woodie’s DIY are offering fantastic value to garden enthusiasts, with 20% off all garden hand tools and outdoor lighting. For those people who haven’t ventured out gardening yet, there’s 20% off all fireside accessories and superb value on Woodie’s range of log-effect and portable gas fires.

There are reductions on exercise equipment, with the F.I.T Elliptical Trainer reduced from €219.99 to €189.99, and the F.I.T. Magnetic Exercise Bike reduced from €179.99 to €149.99.

32 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 19 January 2012

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs Car Medic set for Dublin MISS Ireland, Holly Carpenter, and top model, Tiffany Stanley, joined Car Medic MD Paul Callan to scrub up and give entrepreneurs in south Dublin a fuel injection for the NewYear.

Car Medic repair cosmetic damage, scuffs and scratches to vehicles at customers’ homes or places of work. Car Medic have a range of new business start-up opportunities in Dublin for 2012 from €12,995. This business idea has taken the franchise world by storm, scooping top honours at the Irish Franchise Awards and regional Business awards.

Paul Callan, Master Franchisor of Car Medic, Ireland, says: “Car Medic franchisees work for themselves but not by themselves, we are geared to keep overheads low and profits high. We pride ourselves in providing the very best training and support. ” Call 1850 300999 or visit www. carmedic.ie for more details.

The entire Mazda3 range now

has a cleaner 1.6-litre common-rail diesel engine

New Mazda 3 moves up in class for 2012 CORMAC CURTIS Motoring correspondent

MAZDA Ireland has launched an upgraded

Mazda3 for 2012, which not only looks more striking, it’s cleaner and they claim it’s more fun to drive.

Visually, the new model has a sportier, more aerodynamic, front-end design combined with new alloy wheels.

On the inside, drivers and passengers will enjoy a higher quality feel than before with new materials and colours, along with improved ergonomics in the cockpit and dashboard.

Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) is also improved ensuring lower cabin noise for a more refined ride, even

on rough roads.

The Mazda3 is being sold as the driver’s car of the class. Mazda’s engineers have optimised handling for more agility. Improving ride comfort was equally important with updates to suspension and steering, together with more rigidity in the body shell.

The 2012 Mazda3 is aimed particularly at those who desire the combination of sports styling and lots of standard kit with the introduction of the new Mazda3 Sport SE grade.

The entire Mazda3 range now has a cleaner 1.6-litre common-rail diesel engine. CO emis-

sions fall to 115g/km (road tax band A), while improved fuel economy delivers 4.3L/100kms (65mpg).

Safety is paramount in any family car; the Mazda3 carries the maximum 5-star Euro NCAP rating.

One of the primary reasons of the Mazda3’s success in Ireland is based on the generous levels of standard specification.

Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, air conditioning and alloy wheels all come as standard in the most popular Executive Grade.

Reliability is another key factor to its success.

In the 2011 German

JD Power Survey, the Mazda3 won the important compact segment, scoring more points than any other of the 117 models surveyed, ahead of the Mercedes A-Class and the Honda Civic.

Priced from €19,795, the new Mazda3 is available as a 4-door saloon or 5-door hatchback in four specification grades: Comfort, Executive, Sport and the new Sport SE grade.

The newly launched Mazda Finance should help increase volume of the Mazda3 in 2012.

Typical rates include a low 5.9% APR, with flexible lending terms spread up to 48 months.

New partners announced for TomTom TOMTOM Business Solutions has extended its localised reseller service into Leinster through a partnership with Carrickmines-based technology experts, McTelecom.

The extension of TomTom Business Solutions across Ireland will see the development of local businesses becoming experts in a series of products and services, which will improve cost savings for firms that run fleet vehicles.

Since launching into Ireland, TomTom Business Solutions has added to its network of vehicle management experts, all of whom are locally based companies like Derek McDonald’s, McTelecom.

Philip Bailie, account manager, TomTom Ireland said: “Its a significant step forward for TomTom Business Solutions to have a local reseller, McTelecom, in the Leinster area who can help specifically tailor our technology solutions to

the needs of local businesses, enabling them to reduce their costs, become more efficient and keep their staff safe on the roads.”

Derek McDonald, founder of McTelecom is based in Carrickmines, County Dublin.

“We are looking forward to working with TomTom Business Solutions and offering our existing and potential business clients world leading fleet management technology,” he said.

19 January 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 33

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GazetteSPORT

BRADY’S BUNCH:

Former League of Ireland star leading new age at Merrion Page 36

COMMUNITY GAMES: LAUNCH NIGHT FOR NEW YEAR SET TO TAKE PLACE NEXT WEEK

2012 set to be a great year for Community sport@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN Community Games are following a wonderfully successful 2011 with the launch of their 2012 programme of events and activities at Carmichael House next week.

The launch of the programme on Tuesday, January 24 at 7pm at the Dublin 7 venue sees almost 40 different sports and cultural activities on offer over

the coming months.

This year, competitions range from athletics to art, soccer to swimming, judo to gymnastics, and volleyball to variety.

The launch coincides with an information night where representatives from areas around the county can find out how events are organised, get suggestions about best practice and ask questions.

There will also be a computer session where

representatives will be shown how to use computers to assist in organising local events.

Looking to the year ahead, Dublin Community Games’ chairperson, Brian MacManus, said: “We are looking forward to another busy year with some new activities being introduced, and being able to extend the reach of Community Games into every community around the county.”

Action from last summer’s Community Games finals

Dublin Community Games operates in local communities, providing opportunities for young people to experience a wide range of sporting and cultural activities in a healthy and safe envi-

ronment.

The Games programme caters for young people aged six to 16 years, with a strong emphasis firmly placed on fun, participation and creating community

spirit.

Adult volunteers are invaluable to the Games, as they are actively involved in organising activities locally.

The launch and information night is open to

new and existing volunteers, but if you require more information, contact Dublin secretary, Maureen Quinlan on 872 8203, or check out www.dublincommunitygames.ie.

36 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 19 January 2012

in association with

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

O’Brien handed elevated role with Irish cricket team KEVIN O’Brien has been named as Irish cricket’s vice-captain for the 2012 season as deputy to William Porterfield.

The Dubliner takes over from Trent Johnston who has served Ireland as either captain or vice-captain for nearly seven years.

Speaking about the extra responsibility, O’Brien was delighted by his appointment: “It’s a huge honour for me to have been appointed vice-captain, and it’s a part of the game I really enjoy.

“I’ve deputised for Trent and William over the past two seasons, and I suppose I’ve done reasonably well. We beat Canada and Namibia quite convincingly in the Intercontinental Cup, and I developed a real feel for it.

“I enjoy the extra responsibility and it takes your involvement to a new dimension as you’re always thinking of the next move as a captain.

“It’s been a golden age for Irish cricket with some memorable wins in that period. I’m close friends with William and I’m confident we’ll forge an excellent partnership.”

Softball Ireland to run pair of open days SOFTBALL Ireland are holding open days in Lucan and Tallaght on January 21, inviting both women and men above the age of 16, of all fitness levels to come along.

The Lucan event takes place in the leisure centre in Griffeen Valley Park from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. In Tallaght, meanwhile, the event runs from 1.30pm to 4.30pm in the Tallaght Sports Complex in Balrothery.

Softball is a co-ed

game similar to rounders and baseball.

The main difference between baseball and softball is that in softball the ball is “soft” tossed underarm as opposed to the “hard” overarm ball pitch in baseball.

The main softball season starts in April and Softball Ireland are holding open days early in the New Year to give new players an opportunity to come along and try it out and get familiar with the game before the season starts.

For more info, email info@softballleinster. ie or go to www.softballleinster.ie

Brady’s new bunch learn from the best After a stellar career in the League of Ireland, KEVIN BRADY is now using his experience to help shape the stars of the future at Mount Merrion

AFTER a glittering career in the League of Ireland, Kevin Brady is looking to impart the lessons learnt from a life in football to the next generation at Mount Merrion.

His playing days yielded 13 titles in domestic competitions, including Shamrock Rovers remarkable four in-a-row from 1983 to 1987; Derry City’s first ever league title – winning the a maiden treble for any club – while he was also part of Shelbourne’s first league win in 30 years.

Coaching was not immediately on the agenda in those days but, managed by some League of Ireland greats like Jim McLaughlin, Noel King and Dermot Keeley, plenty of knowledge seeped in by the time he retired at the age of 38 after 19 seasons.,

But the past decade since retirement has seen him progress through the coaching badges to UEFA ‘A’ level, a qualification that was scarcely on the agenda when he came into the game.

“At youth level, in terms of coaching, I didn’t think there was a hell of a

very much results-based. “ I wo u l d n ’t h ave thought much about coaching and what was happening. But, as I got older, there would have been an emphasis – not so much on coaching – but really honest team talks after games.

“I played on teams with

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

‘At youth level, I didn’t think there was much coaching.

Training was often 20-a-side; it was survival of the fittest.’

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

lot. Training was often 20-a-side and it was survival of the fittest. You were picked in terms of your ability,” he told GazetteSport.

“If you kept producing and winning things, you kept gravitating toward the better teams. It was

pressure to win things. If you didn’t, you’d have very forthright meetings and you’d start to think about why things are happening on the pitch and why they are not.”

Working with the likes of McLaughlin, King and Keeley added to his form-

League of Ireland legend, Kevin Brady, settling into his new surroundings

ative coaching ideas, especially as one of the leaders in the dressing room.

“When I finished up, I was a senior player for the last few years. You see fellas coming into the game at 17or 18, and you think, instead of just playing your game, you’re going to have to look out for them.

“That gives you an idea of what you can do to help younger players, lending your experience to them. Can I make a contribution to them in a coaching sense?”

Using that as a jumpoff, Brady undertook his badges while working with teams in Shelbourne and St Paul’s Artane as a coaching co-ordinator.

Brady is now charged with the development of the Deer Park players, working as the coaching academy director, overseeing the progress of the U-11 down to the club’s very youngest member.

It is a far cry from his earliest experiences but is a task he is relishing.

“Now, the idea is to have a ball to a player and your session put together in advance. It’s certainly nothing like the way it is at present and, in fairness to the FAI, they have grown the coaching scene in Ireland.”

He came to the club last May and has helped them progress their Under-8 section to great effect, with the introduction of a new development squad.

Keeping such players together is a move that has helped player reten-

tion, one which has Brady brimming with enthusiasm.

“Previously, you might have lost players if they weren’t in a team at the start of the season. Keeping them together as a squad gives us a chance to have a look at them.

What’s happened this year, one or two from those squads have jumped onto the league teams. It keeps them involved in the club and has worked very well.”

He does, however, say that a change in mindset in many areas will be needed if the Republic is to produce players of the technical excellence coming on stream in Spain and the Netherlands.

“It’s definitely improving here but there is a long way to go. There’s still too much of an emphasis on winning and the physicality of football.

“At U-8, supposedly we don’t have league tables or keep results, just play for the enjoyment. But I know from experience with some of the clubs where parents ring around for results and would even say ‘we’re winning our league’.

“It’s hard to get that mentality away. You try and say it’s about development but that is a big problem for the Irish.

It’s very much who wins what?”

Changing that mindset may be a key factor but, for Brady, the commitment to coaching has come a long way in a very short period of time.

19 January 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 37

38 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 19 January 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: CLON MAN SECURES IMPROVED DEAL WITH POTTERS

New boss Kelly ambitious for Bears’ second season CLONDALKIN native Conor Kelly was named as head coach for the Ballyfermot Bears this week as they take their first step towards success in the new rugby league season.

Kelly takes the reins for the 2012 season, with the Bears looking to cap their second ever season with a step up in the rankings.

Last season, the Bears finished bottom of the Leinster league, but Kelly is certain that this season will be more fruitful.

“We have to get this season off to a better start than last year,” he said. “It is important that we learn from mistakes that were made last year so we can start moving up the ladder in the league.”

Kelly is no stranger to the team having played regularly for the Bears last season and was a founding member of the club. He confessed to being “delighted” at his appointment and said that he is looking forward to coaching a growing team.

“Most players will be going into their second season so we are still a young squad,” Kelly said, “but the players are aware of the work that is needed to get to the required level.

“Our squad has improved vastly in the last twelve months and I hope to continue that progression. I am really looking forward to what I believe will be a big year for the Bears.”

Palmerstown run ended by St Conleth’s PALMERSTOWN CS suffered defeat in the U-19B All-Ireland Boys’ schools cup semi-final this week, denying them back-to-back titles.

They were undone 58-55 by St Conleth’s, Ballsbridge, despite the best efforts of Lorcan Glennon and Seth

Ceniza who led the Palmerstown side with 19 and 12 points respectively. However, St.Conleth’s Mark Ryan led his side to victory with a personal tally of 29 points, to claim a thrilling tie.

The West Dublin school won the 2011 U-19C and U-16C titles last time around, the latter with a breath-taking victory over Avondale from Wicklow.

Glenn Whelan crowned a brilliant 12 months with a new contract with Stoke. Picture: Fergus McNally

Whelan in for three more years sport@gazettegroup.com

REPUBLIC of Ireland international Glenn Whelan signed a lengthy new contract this week with Stoke City, marking an incredible 12-month period with the club.

Whelan looked like he might be on the way out of the Britannia Stadium last January, spending time out of the first team, but the Clondalkin man responded in brilliant style to become one of the club’s first team fixtures.

Whelan, 28 this week, signed new terms which will see him contracted to the club for the next three and a half years, with the

option of another year at the Premier League club.

He signed from Sheffield Wednesday four winters ago and has gone on to play over 115 times for the Potters.

And he told the Stoke website this week that he is delighted to have his future confirmed with the club.

“I am loving life at the moment and things are going really well, so I’m absolutely delighted to commit my long-term future to the club,” said the Dubliner.

“All of the hard work I have done over the past 12 months has paid off. To play at Wembley

A wizard weekend: Local Blues travel to Cardiff for tie LEINSTER supporters Mick Wheeler,

from Lucan, and Miriam Byrne, from Clondalkin, were two of the travelling supporters at the Cardiff Blues and Leinster Celtic League match that took place in Cardiff recently.

The match saw Leinster take a valuable away win after tries from Sean O’Brien and Rob Kearney put the visitors in command, before the home side clawed their way back to put the Blues under pressure over a very tense last ten minutes.

twice, reach the FA Cup final, play in Europe and be doing well at international level has certainly made it a memorable time for me.”

His managerTony Pulis added: “Glenn has played a big part in our achievements since he came to the club and it is important to look after players who have been the bedrock of that success.

“He has had a fantastic time these past 12 months, and he’s shown that he’s a player who thrives on being challenged to step up to the next level.

“That’s probably the Celtic blood in him and a steely determination

to prove people wrong, which has included even myself on occasions.”

Whelan first made his move to England over a decade ago when he was signed up by Manchester City having grown up with Maryland Boys and Cherry Orchard.

At City, he was included in the match-day squad several times but never made an appearance. He subsequently switched to Wednesday where he established himself as a midfielder with an eye for goal, netting some great free-kicks in his 142-game career with the Owls.

It brought him to the attention of Tony Pulis

and he played in Stoke’s promotion season. All the while, he earned international caps and underage level - including 14 for the U-21s - as well as being included in a ‘B’ international side.

Giovanni Trappatoni’s arrival as Ireland boss was a huge boost for Whelan, too, making his senior debut in May 2008 and he scored his first international goal soon after in September of that year against Georgia.

And he played his part ever since, being an everpresent in the Republic’s qualifying phase to this summer’s European championships.

19 January 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 39

in association with

DUBLIN GAA: COLLEGES, SENIORS REGISTER WINS

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ROUND TOWERS MEMBERSHIP is now due. Renewal forms available on the club website or in reception in the clubrooms.

a rollover.

Round Tower Sports Predictor 2012 are on sale in the clubrooms. For full

This week’s lotto numbers 4 - 6 - 9

information please contact Cathal

– 12 Bonus Ball 2. There was no win-

Wall on 0872618390 or Ed O’Malley on

ner of this week’s Jackpot of €5,500.

0878073391.

Congratulations to Barry Gavin,

We are now accepting ticket orders

Paddy Whelan and June Ryan who

in the bar for the Dublin Spring Series

were the three €100 winners. Match

games.

3 + Bonus Ball N/A. Next Week’s Jackpot €5,600.

Bingo resumes in the clubrooms this Tuesday. Doors open at 8pm with

White Collar Boxing 2012 will take place in the Red Cow on March 2,and training will begin January 17 in Drimnagh Boxing club at 8.30pm.

first call at 8.30pm. Cash prizes. A

For more information please con-

line is €10, Full house €20, books €10

tact Mark, Niall, Damian or Matt who

for eleven games with game six being

organised this year’s event.

LUCAN SARSFIELDS CONGRATULATIONS to Lucan Sars-

Thanks to Jack O’Neill and Cavan

fields club man Eoghan Williams on

Developments for the use of their

winning first prize in the Sport-

machinery.

spersons’ Dream draw.

Fingal Ravens’ Darren Daly who was on form for Dublin in the O’Byrne Cup tie against UCD at Parnell Park last week

North beats South while Dubs Byrne on LEINSTER COLLEGES Dublin North Dublin South

1-19 3-11

Q sport@gazettegroup.com

ST BRIGID’S rising star Paul Winters produced a superb showing from placed balls to help Dublin North to a thrilling two-point victory over their southside counterparts to book a place in the last eight of the Leinster Colleges senior hurling championship, where they will take on St Kieran’s in the quarter-final round of ties.

The free-taking of the Dublin minor star of last year was one of the Northsiders’ principal weapons, with Winters netting nine points, but it was the display of Castleknock’s Ciaran Kilkenny that was arguably the most influential aspect of the victory for Dublin North.

Dublin South started brightly through Ballyboden St Enda’s James

Roche and Naoise Greene, but North burst into life when Cormac Costello f licked K ilkenny’s pass into the net for the first goal on 12 minutes.

The South kept in touch, with only four p o i n t s b e t we e n t h e sides at half-time – 1-10 to 0-9 – but Dublin North increased their lead to eight in the second half.

South bagged a goal from Greene on 41 minutes, but further scores put the North seven up with 10 minutes left.

Greene did nab a couple of goals, while Roche finished with 1-2, as South made big inroads into the North’s lead, but came up just short by a couple of scores in the final reckoning.

The fixture featured an array of players who lined out for Dublin’s minor side last summer, including Lucan’s Sean McClelland and St

Oliver Plunkett’s Cian Boland in the North selection.

O’BYRNE CUP Dublin UCD

4-14 0-12

MEANWHILE, Dublin’s senior footballers swept past UCD 4-14 to 0-12 in Parnell Park on Saturday evening in the second round of Bord na Mona O’Byrne Cup. Once again, St Sylvester’s Micheal McCarthy was among those to push his claims the most when he kicked four points from play as well as a free and generally was a strong target in the forward lines.

It helped the Dubs to establish a 1-11 to 0-5 lead, with the returning Kevin McManamon’s goal a high point, managing to get by Kilmacud Crokes’ man Rory O’Carroll before arrowing into the top of the UCD net.

Br yan Cullen and Diarmuid Connolly both netted to extend the margin before St Brigid’s Sean Murray emerged from the bench to put a further gloss on the scoring with a cracking effort.

Murray was among a number of Brigid’s men lining out with former Ipswich Town keeper, Shane Supple, donning the number one jersey, while Paddy Andrews was back in the starting line-up. Gavin McIntyre also came on from the bench along with Ror y Corcoran, the Castleknock man making his second successive appearance.

K ilmacud’s Cian O’Sullivan had a more comfortable day than clubmates O’Carroll and Craig Dias – both wearing UCD colours – as part of a full-back line featuring Cuala’s Mick Fitzsimons and Fingal Ravens’ Darren Daly.

Our nurseries for boys and girls

Well done to all who picked up

born in 2005,2006 and 2007 are

awards for 2011 last Saturday at

every Saturday at 1.30pm on our

our awards night.

all-weather pitch at 12th Lock.

Paul Stapleton was presented

Deepest sympathy to the Scanlon

with the Club Person of theYear

family on the death of Eoin’s moth-

award. Management team of the

er, Joan, and to the Hughes family

ye ar award went to our inter

on the death of Frank’s brother.

ladies’ footballers, while Seaghan

Opening times for our club shop

O’Lanagain was inducted into our

are Tuesday and Thursday from

Hall of Fame.

7.30 to 8.30pm, and Saturdays from

Our annual volunteers night takes place this Saturday at 9pm in the clubhouse bar, while the adult camogie section will have their medal presentations on the same night in the function room.

The golf society AGM takes place next Monday, January 23.

10.30 to 11.30am.

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 1, 4, 7 and 9. There was no winner.

Nex t weeks jackpot will be €11,000.

Liam Mulhall’s team will be in char ge nex t Sunda y when our sponsor will be Jim Doyle Sports.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN CLUB person of the week has to

€10 for juveniles (stand only). Single

be Roisheen Brady for her recita-

game tickets will cost €13 for adults

tion in the Leinster final of Scor na

(stand and hill) and €5 for juveniles

nOg in Ballymore on Sunday last.

(stand only).

Roisheen will now reresent the club

Juvenile committee meeting takes

on the February 18 in Castlebar in

place this Thursday, January 19 in

the All-Ireland final. Well done to

the clubhouse at 8.30pm.

our novelty group - while they were not in the winner’s enclosure, they did us proud.

To view our website, log on to www.stpatricksgaa.ie Lotto: Numbers drawn were 1, 8, 18

The Dublin football and hurling

and 23. There was no winner of the

double-headers Spring series will

€7,400 jackpot. Match any three

take part on February 4 (Kerry),

numbers winner was Paddy Flood,

February 11 (Armagh and Cork) and

who receives €200.

March 24 (Donegal and Tipperary) in Croke Park. Tickets for the three dates will cost only €30 (in total) for the stand and Hill 16 for adults, and

N e x t w e e k ’s j a c k p o t w i l l b e €7,600.

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

Follow GazetteSport on Facebook and Twitter, and at www.gazettegroup.com

ALL OF YOUR CLONDALKIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 35-39

THREE MORE YEARS: Whelan commits to long-term contract at Stoke P38

BRADY’S BUNCH LoI legend helping make stars of the future P36

GazetteSPORT

Katie Taylor was presented with the IABA Boxer of the Year award last week at the organisation’s awards ceremony

JANUARY 19, 2012

Taylor’s elite rank confirmed again Katie claims IABA Boxer of the Year as London looms, while Kenneth Egan gets Olympic dream on track clondalkinsport@gazettegroup.com

KATIE Taylor scooped the Boxer of the Year award at the Irish Amateur Boxing Association Annual Awards at the Green Isle Hotel in Dublin last Friday night.

The Peamount star, the current AIBA World lightweight champion, claimed her fifth European title in a row and her fourth European Union gold medal on the trot in 2011, the IABA’s Centenary year.

Taylor was also one of six boxers to receive Elite International Achievers Awards, along with Joe Ward, Ray Moylette, John Joe Nevin, Darren O’Neill and Michael Conlan.

Katie Taylor’s father and coach, Peter Taylor, said of the award: “Katie is absolutely delighted with the award. The previous 12 months were a big year for Irish boxing and 2012 will be crucial with the Olympic qualifiers for men and women and the Olympic Games just around the corner.”

Currently, Taylor is in preparations for the single Olympic qualifier which takes place in Qinhuangdao, China, in May as part of the AIBA World Women’s Championships.

Eight places at the Games will be on offer in the 60kg weight class for London, making it a tough competition to negotiate.

Just three women’s weight divisions will be contested in London, meaning fighters from divisions above and below Taylor’s preferred class will be vying for spots from the same competition.

But the experience of victories in three consecutive world championships – as well as her European and EU dominance – makes her among one of the clear favourites to progress.

Kenny Egan, meanwhile, will begin his bid this weekend to get to a second Olympics when he seeks to win back the light-heavyweight National Senior title he relinquished last year after eight years with the belt and a decade as a national champion.

Teenager Joe Ward took the title off the Neil-

stown man last February but Egan is determined to get back on track this year with the national senior competition of vital importance.

The winner of the competition goes forward to represent Ireland at the final Olympic qualifier for European boxers in Istanbul, Turkey, in April 2012.

Weigh-in of the competition is on Friday morning with the entry list being finalised in the coming days in what looks set to be an ultra-competitive division, which runs for the next three weekends with the finals on February 4 and 5.

Egan had briefly attempted to move up to heavyweight before Christmas but has returned to the 81kg weight where he is more comfortable and believes he has the focus now to get back to the stage where he famously annexed the silvermedal.

Currently, Ireland have three fighter qualified for the Olympic Games but confidence is high that Istanbul will yield more to join John Joe Nevin, Michael Conlan and Darren O’Neill.