Clondalkin GAZET TE FREE
MAY 31, 2012
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INSIDE: The class of 2012 graduates in style at Moyle Park College Pages 8-9
Hurling: Rushe set for Dubs’ opening encounter Page 32
Football: Round Towers reach Under-16 shield final Page 31
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 BUSINESS .................... 19 MOTORS ........................21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26
TENANT RIGHTS: TD Patrick Nulty (Lab) on protecting deposits Page 15
SDCC – no plan to alter waste bye-law I PAUL HOSFORD
SOUTH Dublin County Council (SDCC) has said it will not alter its household waste byelaws until after a national strategy has been published. Current bye-laws state “waste must not be presented for collection before 6am on the designated collection day” but, with collections starting at 7am, it only allows residents an hour to put out their bins. Fianna Fail councillorTrevor
Gilligan said the existing byelaws were not fit for purpose in the current privatised bin collection era: “Residents must be given at least 12 hours to present their bins prior to the collection time.” A SDCC spokesperson said: “The Minister for the Environment is due to publish a national waste strategy in June, and that may supersede our own laws. We will decide whether to act then.” Full Story on Page 2
On the ball: Bank of Ireland staff wished to help charity BANK of Ireland staff were on the ball
when they took part in a recent fundraiser for Make A Wish Ireland. Pat Purcell, Natalie Smith, Dermot Kinsella, Ian McCormack and (front) Robert Wilson, all from the Newlands
Cross, Clondalkin branch took part in the soccer tournament fundraising event at Railway Union Club, which saw €2,000 raised for the charity, which is Bank of Ireland’s charity of the year.
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COUNCIL: CALL FOR MORE TIME FOR BINS
Gilligan – SDCC must amend its waste laws
BUSINESS Bank of Ireland’s Enterprise Week seminar
Gerry Dineen of BoI Walkinstown and Michael McBennett, president of South Dublin Chamber
I PAUL HOSFORD
phosford@gazettegroup.com
SOUTH Dublin County Council (SDCC) must amend its litter collection bye-laws to better serve local residents. That’s according to Fianna Fail councillor Trevor Gilligan, who says current byelaws punish residents because they only allow bins to be on the street an hour before collection. The current SDCC bye-laws for household waste state that “waste must not be presented for collection before 6am on the designated collection day”, and that collection must be carried out within 12 hours of that time. Speaking this week, Cllr Gilligan said the existing bye-laws were “not fit for purpose in the current privatised bin-collection era”. He said: “For example, under current rules, residents must not present bins before 6am on the day of collection. Most companies instruct residents to present bins for collection before 7am, giving residents a onehour period [in which to put their bins out]. “Residents must be given at least 12 hours to present their bins prior to the collection time,” Cllr Gilligan said. He went on to say that
the bye-laws would come as news to most locals. “Many residents are completely unaware of the bye-laws. “The fine for having bins out before 6am is anything up to €75,” said the Fianna Fail councillor. Under the section of fines, SDCC’s waste bye-law states the “fixed payment shall be €75, and the said fixed payment must be paid within 21 days of the date of service of such Fixed Payment Notice for such person to avoid a prosecution”. In April, 2011, SDCC sold its waste disposal contract to private waste operator, Greyhound.
Eamonn Eaton, head of group
Pat McLoughlin, president of
learning in BoI
Tallaght ITT
Head of Dublin West BoI branches, Des Moore
Patrick Tyrrell of CRS Refrigeration and John Agar of
Contractors A number of private waste contractors now operate within the area. In response, SDCC said they had initially planned to put the Household Waste byelaws on public display, but halted plans because a ministerial review was due to take place. A SDCC spokesperson said: “The Minister for the Environment is due to publish a national waste strategy in June, and that may supersede our own laws. “When the review is published, we will look at our own bye-laws and decide if any action needs to be taken.”
Agar Estate Agents. Pictures: Ian Fleming
Many people were interested in the talks concerning SMEs
Adding up initiatives to note B ANK of Ireland staff last week held their sixth Enterprise Week seminar in the Louis Fitzgerald Hotel. The bank’s National Enterprise Week was established three years ago to provide small- and mediumenterprises (SMEs) with varying types of support that are equally important for the development of their busi-
nesses. These include networking opportunities, seminars and advice sessions, and technology developments, to name but a few. Today, these events have grown into valuable forums for both customers and non-customers of the bank and will, hopefully, help move forward their businesses in a positive way.
Con Branagan of Absolute Healing and Michelle Thornton of Hotel Solutions
Kevin McDermott, BoI Global Markets rep, and Fiona Mulhern
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EDUCATION Praise for students’ new facilities
High-tech gear is launched at Adamstown CC I PAUL HOSFORD phosford@gazettegroup.com
A R ANGE of digital education facilities and a highly-modern library were launched in Adamstown Community College by the Education and Skills Minister, Ruairi Quinn, last week. Developed and managed by County Dublin VEC, Adamstown Community College is now one of the most modern and best-equipped schools in Ireland. The 1,000-pupil school was built and opened last year with a total investment of €14 million from the Department of Education and Skills.
Information technology facilities at the school are state-of-the-ar t, including computer tablets, broadband wireless internet access throughout, an advanced design and communication graphics classroom, ePortals for course content delivery, electronic radio frequency student ID and transaction cards, and all the latest advanced educational systems to ensure the best possible learning experience for pupils. Minister Quinn said: “This technologicallyadvanced school is exemplary of the forward-looking approach to personal skills development that
I want to see for every pupil in Ireland. “I am also pleased to see how public funds have been used effectively to establish such a modern and vibrant school, which will contribute to the well-being of students, the local community and society long into the future,” he said. The new school library has been established in partnership with South Dublin County Council and all students have been enrolled with South Dublin Libraries, which have stocked the library as well as assisting in its setup and running. South Dublin Libraries have provided funding for
Neenal Mujahee, Olive Odagbu and Chloe Keane avail of some of the wide-ranging, high-tech facilities at Adamstown Community College
a major literacy enhancement initiative using specialist education technology. Technology company Hewlett Packard provided laptop computer systems to the school at very beneficial rates. The school’s technology leadership has also been supported by the information management systems provider, Ivertec, and online communica-
tions specialists, Sonas Innovation. PrincipalDes Newton, said: “Adamstown Community College is making an excellent contribution to the community, based on the commitment of our staff, students and parents, who have embraced the life of the school and made it their own. “I am delighted with the excellent facilities we are able to provide,
together with the Department of Education, South Dublin County Council and our technology partners.” Dr Marie Griffin, County Dublin VEC chief executive, said: “Adamstown Community College is delivering the highest standards of learning and is meeting the educational needs of the community in Adamstown and wider Lucan.”
SPONSOR
Fr Ruddy to cycle for India FR MICHAEL Ruddy, the parish priest of Sacred Heart, Sruleen, is planning a sponsored cycle from his home village in north Mayo to his parish in Dublin, from June 4 to 9. The cycle is being held to help his order’s mission in India, as well as to help fund a new church roof. Fr Michael spent part of this Lent in India, where he saw at first-hand the great work his Order is doing there, especially with victims of Hansen’s Disease (leprosy.) Given that it is the week before the Eucharistic Congress, Fr Michael will celebrate Mass each evening of the cycle in various locations, ending up with Vigil Mass at 6.30 pm in Sruleen on June 9. For further details of his route, and how to sponsor this cycle, see: www.frmikesbikehike. com.
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COURTS Man threatened with knife and syringe to get money
Drug addict sentenced for robbery spree A DRUG addict, who went on a two-week robbery spree with a syringe and a knife in order to get money to buy his daughter a birthday present, has been sentenced to six and a half years in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Michael Rooney Dignam was “strung out on drugs” at the time of the robberies and told gardai he couldn’t remember the details of the offences but admitted he had done them. Dignam (31) of Rowlagh Crescent and St Mark’s Gardens, Clondalkin, pleaded guilty to robber y at Xtravision at Phibsboro Shopping Centre on October 18, 2010. He also pleaded guilty to robbery at Xtravision, Sundrive Road on October 19,
2010. He further pleaded guilty to robbery at Daybreak shop in Lucan on October 23, 2010 and robbery at Xtravision, Ninth Lock Road, Clondalkin on October 23, 2010 and robbery at Centra Express in Templeogue on October 26, 2010. Garda Michael O’Brien told prosecuting counsel, Sean Guerin BL, Dignam went into Xtravision at Phibsboro Shopping Centre and argued about a Star Wars game for a Nintendo Wii and left. He returned with a syringe in his hand and grabbed the shop assistant’s wrist and shouted “This is a robbery,” before demanding that he open the till. Garda Barry O’Shea said Dignam entered
Xtravision in Clondalkin and asked could he purchase phone credit. He held a kitchen knife with a four inch blade to the shop assistant’s neck and ordered her to open the cash register. He grabbed cash and ran from the shop. Garda Gail O’Donoghue gave evidence that Dignam walked into Daybreak in Lucan with a hood over his head and brandished a syringe. Dignam jumped the counter at Xtravision on the Ninth Lock Road in Clondalkin brandishing a syringe with no cover on the needle. He demanded the shop assistant open the till and he grabbed €400 in cash. The court heard
Dignam robbed Centra Xpress in Templeogue with a syringe. He grabbed €1,078 in cash and left the shop. When arrested, Dignam, who has 27 previous convictions, initially told gardai he committed the robberies, as he wanted money to buy his 10-year-old daughter a birthday present. Defence counsel Tony McGillicuddy BL, said Dignam “never hurt anyone but just wanted money to buy drugs”. Judge Martin Nolan said Dignam “became a terrifying individual to the people he robbed threatening them with syringes and knives”. He said Dignam was a “menace to society” and sentenced him to six and a half years.
Court of Criminal Justice, Dublin
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FastNews
SOCIETY Minister’s praise for initiatives
Council satisfied with Corkagh fisheries
Fix your street with free smartphone app THE new Fix Your Street smartphone app was launched in County Hall, Tallaght, in the presence of the Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Councillor Caitriona Jones (Lab) last week. Cllr Jones said: “The website, www.fixyourstreet. ie, has been a great success, to date. “Only recently, I accepted three prestigious e-Gov awards on behalf of the council for the initiative, and I am very excited to be here today to launch the new smartphone app.” The app will allow users to report an issue anonymously, or they can provide their name and email address. Their issue gets uploaded directly into “fixyourstreet”, and automatically distributed to the relevant department, which can begin to tackle the matter straight away. The Fix Your Street app is free to download for Android devices, and will also be available shortly for iPhone users.
Dublin duo’s debut EP DUBLIN duo, Cry Monster Cry, released their debut EP, The Fallen, last week, and it has already entered the iTunes Charts at Number 2. The Fallen, was recorded over the space of two months, often in marathon night sessions in a studio in the seaside town of Malahide. The songs on this debut act as both a signal of intent and a
taste of things to come from Cry Monster Cry. Their song, This New Country, which features on the digital version of the EP, was chosen to feature in Tourism Ireland’s new online campaign, Jump Into Ireland, is sure to have everyone singing along very soon. The Fallen EP iTunes link here: http://itunes.apple. com/ie/album/ the-fallen-ep/ id524268963
UPDATE: FACILITY
I PAUL HOSFORD phosford@gazettegroup.com
Minister Frances Fitzgerald got to grips with this bike when she visited the Clondalkin Traveller’s Development Group’s Bike Shed project, which has a primary objective of advancing the health and well-being of participants
Travellers’ bikes impress Frances I PAUL HOSFORD phosford@gazettegroup.com
THE Clondalkin Traveller’s Development Group, which works with 1,100 travellers in the area of Clondalkin and Newcastle, this week unveiled a new bike shed, which is aimed at encouraging male travellers to use their
services. The service was visited by local Fine Gael TD, and Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald, who paid tribute to the work being carried out by the outreach workers in the group. She said: “I am delighted to be here on this fabulous sunny morning to visit the Clondalkin Traveller Development Group, and to meet so many of you who are providing such a fantastic service to members of the Traveller community.” Minister Fitzgerald went on to pay particular praise to the work being
done to improve the health of women in the Traveller community. She said: “It’s fantastic to hear first-hand about the work you are doing, and I am hugely impressed to learn that, because of your outreach workers encouraging women to be breast health aware, that the mammogram uptake rate has gone from well below the national average to almost 99%. “I’ve done a lot of work in this area, myself, and I know how hard it is to get women tuned in to the need to attend breast checks, and I have to say it’s inspiring to hear how
successfully you’ve managed to do it,” she said. Bike Shed is a community-based, non-commercial organisation that is open to all men where the primary activity is the provision of a safe, friendly and inclusive environment where the men are able to gather and/or work on projects at their own pace, in their own time and in the company of other men, and where the primary objective is to advance the health and well-being of the participating men. Minister Fitzgerald said: “It’s great also to see so many men using Bike Shed. This is a concept that came from Australia, and I’ve seen how well it works in towns throughout Ireland, but I’ve never seen so many people so enthusiastic about the project. “I really do hope it continues to flourish, and that some of you guys can go on to be instructors in courses that bring bikemaking skills to other communities,” said Minister Fitzgerald, who visited the Bike Shed to see the creations the young men have put together. “It’s been a pleasure to meet you all, and to see the great work you are doing in the area,” she said.
THE fisheries at Corkagh Park attract around 7,000 fishers a year and are being run in a “more than satisfactory” manner, South Dublin County Council (SDCC) has said. At the recent Clondalkin Area Committee Meeting, Labour councillor Breeda Bonner asked for an update on the fisheries. In response, SDCC management said that the facility was run by an outside management company, who engaged the local community proactively. “The Corkagh Park Fishery is currently operated under agreement by BK Management. The fishery is open throughout the year. The operating times coincide with park opening hours. During the winter months, the fishery shop beside the lakes is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (weather permitting). “On Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, the fishery is operated from the adjacent Camac Valley Caravan Park reception, and all enquiries, telephone calls and the issuing of fishing permits etc are handled from there,” said SDCC. “During the summer months, the lakes and shop are open seven days a week, from 10am until official park closing time. “The number of patrons per year over the period 2009-2011 is approximately 7,000 per annum. “Flyers are distributed to all fishing tackle shops, and distributed generally in tourism and other outlets throughout the Clondalkin/Tallaght areas. “The council is more than satisfied with the management and operation of the facility by BK Management, in what is a very competitive and challenging economic climate,” said the report.
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SCHOOLS Sixth Year students at Moyle Park College have a
Luke O’Mara is presented with the Marist Brothers’ award by Brother Nick
Earlvin Morroco and Shane Mahon
Moving on to the next step in life ... HE class of 2012 bade a fond farewell to Moyle Park College recently as they graduated in style at the Clondalkin school. It was a sombre moment, and yet there was plenty of laughter, too, as the school celebrated not just the academic and sporting life of the students, but also the social and community aspect of their time with the school, as well as
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commemorating late students whose legacy lingers. Fr Damien spoke of the challenges of the era’s austerity, but commended the students on their drive and optimism, while principal Aiden Clarke also praised the students on their achievements, as well as wishing the very best with their future academic and working lives.
Sean Long is presented with the Sportsperson of the Year award by Gary Kenny
Alan O’Connor and Roisin McGowan
Kevin Porter and Arnoldas Ulevicius
31 May 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9
great graduation ceremony, and look to a confident future
Patrick Kearns, Sodiq Jimoh, Siobhan Reddington and Muhammed Abdulla
Gareth Looney and Dara Hogan
Randy Mazingu, Andrew McDermott and Sean O’Connor
Moyle Park College principal Aidan Clarke presents Alex Aiontoati with the Student of the Year award
The students celebrate at the conclusion of their graduation ceremony. Pictures: Ian Fleming
The late Ciaran Carr’s parents joined year head, Eddie O’Byrne to present the Ciaran Carr award to Stephen Teko
David McGrath and Constant Moleka
Principal Clarke congratulated and praised all of the students
Grace McGovern and Owen Kelly
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FUNDRAISER Models strut their stuff in support of Kasey
Kelly Donegan and Aoibheann McCaul
Brian Kennedy poses with Audrey Whelan on the dance floor Pictures: Una Williams
Celebrity fashion show Kares4Kasey CELEBRITY fashion show was the latest fund raising event held for the Kare4Kasey trust fund. Hosted in the Vanilla Nightclub of Hampton Hotel on Friday of May 18, the night was attended by many well-known faces. The trust fund looks to raise money in support of Kasey Kelly, a girl born in December 2010. At 10 months Kasey was diagnosed with a malig-
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nant brain tumour known as atypical teratoid/ rhabdoid or ATRT, which is very aggressive and extremely rare. Currently living in Boston awaiting treatment for Kasey, the Kelly family has already raised €200,000 from kind donations. To donate to Kasey’s trust fund, please visit www.mycharity.ie/charity/kare4kasey or for more information, www.kare4kasey.com.
Yomyko Chen and Sarah Morrissey
Co-hosts Kirsteen O’Sullivan and Edward Smith
Niamh Kavanagh and Adam Costello Doherty and Judi Costello
Danika Skeen
31 May 2012 GAZETTE 11
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PEOPLE TV3 figure talks to The Gazette on being a busy mum
Lucia Wright, Peter McGowan and Juno Treanor joined Sybil Mulcahy at the Radisson Blu hotel to help launch CaldeSpray, a new product in the Caldesene range to help prevent nappy rash
Sybil isn’t nappy-ing on maternity leave I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN
NEW mother, and Monkstown resident, Sybil Mulcahy of TV3’s The Morning Show, may only have given birth six weeks ago, but she has bounced back into shape and looked fit, healthy and well-rested at the launch of a new treatment for nappy rash, CaldeSpray. Sybil launched the new product, of which she is ambassador, in the Radisson Blu Hotel on May 21, and she had her six-weekold son, Michael, there, too. She is enjoying her new baby son, but said three children were a lot more work than two, and added: “I think Michael has reflux. He’s up every two hours, so I’m up about three times a night, but it’s not too bad.”
Although six-week-old Michael may have reflux, at present, Sybil says “it’s not too bad”
In a frank interview with The Gazette, she said that while she wanted a third child “at some stage”, Michael was “an accident”, but they were certain they would have a third child in the future. “I’m just in the first few weeks so I’m watching a lot of late night TV and even infomercials,” she said. Sybil now plans to take part in the mini-mara-
thon this June, but will walk it instead of running it. “I’ll be walking – sure, I can barely run down the stairs! I’m not very fit, and have never been to the gym. I did it last year too, and for the same charity, called, Third Age, and it’s like a Childline for the elderly. “It’s really for elderly people living in remote areas or all alone, and
they often just ring up to say goodnight, not having spoken to a soul all day. So I’m walking it for them,” said Sybil. With three children to mind, which she describes as “chaos”, Sybil was thankful that she has a childminder to help out. “I couldn’t cope, otherwise,” she said. “Fair play to anyone doing it all on their own, though. It’s a
thankless job, but it’s a lot easier if they’re sleeping at night. When you get no sleep, every problem becomes a mountain.” She intends to enjoy her six months’ maternity leave to the fullest, and is also trying to buy a house in Monkstown or the surrounding areas. “You don’t get a chance to do these things when you’re working. We’re in the process of getting
mortgage approval, and are looking at houses now. “It takes a good chunk of time, so until I go back to work in October, I’m concentrating on finding my house. If anyone out there knows of a nice five-bedroom, let me know!” Whilst on maternity leave previously, Sybil cut it short as her colleague on Ireland AM, Sinead Desmond was unwell and Sybil filled in. However, as for her current leave, she said: “This time, I’m enjoying it.” When asked how the other two children were adjusting to the new baby, she said: “Sure, they’re killing each other. I caught my daughter trying to carry the baby down the stairs the other morning.
“She gets jealous if I give the baby attention; the other fellow is not too bad, but I suppose it’ll take a while for things to settle.” She is due back on The Morning Show in October, and is also looking forward to returning. “The ratings are up, and it’s a show that’s become a part of people’s morning routine. I’m also looking forward to working with Martin [King] again.” Speaking about the product that she is ambassador for, Sybil said: “It’s a great product, and Caldesene has been on the market for 40 years. “They had no brand ambassador before, and I’m happy to do it. The spray is an updated version [of the existing product].”
31 May 2012 GAZETTE 13
SCHOOLS National search for Teacher of the Year
Your chance to name the top educator BHRAONAIN
RORY Kavanagh, Donegal GAA footballer and teacher at Scoil Colmcille National School in Letterkenny, launched the Teacher of the Year Awards last week. Students from all across Dublin are being given the opportunity to celebrate their best teachers, and they can give top marks to their favourite teacher by entering her or him into a national awards competition to find the best teacher in the country. The Teacher of the Year awards are being organised by www.abcbooks.ie, and will allow students, colleagues and family members to nominate a teacher with vision, expertise, passion and creativity for the accolade. The competition is open to students from all schools around Ireland, both national and secondary, and each nominating student will get a free consultation for fixed braces with David McConville Orthodontists. At the launch, Mark Bundschu, of abcbooks. ie, said: “We deal with teachers daily and have
great respect for the job they do. “When we realised there wasn’t a national awards programme to honour the great work of our primary and secondary school teachers, we decided to take on the mantle.” If you would like to nominate a teacher, all you have to do is write a piece all about them in 500 words or less. --------------------------
‘The Teacher of the Year judging panel will apply tough criteria in their selection process’ --------------------------
You need to convince the judging panel of why your teacher deserves to be crowned Teacher of the Year 2012, and you can include additional primary evidence of their merit, such as photos, videos, or stories. Speaking to The Gazette, Kavanagh said that he was pleased to support any initiative that promotes the work done by teachers. “It’s a great opportunity for parents and stu-
dents to nominate their teacher. “T he nominations come at the end of term, in order to give students the chance to work closely with that teacher throughout the year. “This is a great chance to promote teaching, and all of the good work done behind closed doors,” he said. When asked about his own likelihood of nomination at Scoil Colmcille, Kavanagh said: “I wish!”, and went on to say: “As a teacher, you work with these fellows for years, and don’t realise the impact you have on them. “It’s only when they come back to you years later when they’re in secondary school and talk to you and thank you that you realise it, and it’s very rewarding.” The judging panel will apply tough criteria in their selection process, which include ability to teach and explain a difficult topic, commitment, creativity, innovation, rapport with students and involvement in extra-curricular activities. Nominations can be made online at www.abcbooks.ie.
Follow The Gazette online on Facebook DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers have now made it easier for our readers to interact with their favourite regional newspaper group by launching our Facebook page. Facebook is becoming a huge part of people’s everyday lives, so The Gazette has made it easier than ever to stay in touch with what’s going on, and by you letting us know what’s going on, we can tell the whole city. Connecting with us on Facebook is a quick and easy way to stay in touch with your favourite regional newspa-
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M
I BAIRBRE NI
Pole position: ‘Making the most of your UEFA trip to Poznan’
Emma Bundschu and Filip Blazejczak help their teacher (and Donegal GAA footballer) Rory Kavanagh launch the Teacher of the Year 2012 awards search
TRAVEL PAGE 22
14 GAZETTE 31 May 2012
MUSIC Ireland’s newest festival celebrates all things folk
Spirit of Folk 2012 will see musicians and storytellers from all over Ireland and the UK come together for a weekend of music, arts and craft
Getting into the spirit of things in Dunderry GazetteContacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251 Managing Director: Michael McGovern email:mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Acting News Editor: Mimi Murray email: mmurray@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Picture Editor: Paul Hosford email: picturedesk@gazettegroup.com Ad Manager: Louise Fitzgerald email: lfitzgerald@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com
Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com www.gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.
SPIRIT of Folk, Ireland’s newest festival “celebrating all things folk”, has announced a stellar lineup and the addition of an extra night for this year’s festival, once again taking place in the idyllic surroundings of Dunderry Park, Co Meath. Returning this year from September 21 to 23, Spirit of Folk 2012 will see musicians and storytellers from all over Ireland and the UK come together for a weekend of music, arts, craft, spirituality, philosophy and folklore. This year’s family-friendly festival line up boasts an impressive mix of traditional Irish music, folk, bluegrass and country; from established Irish singer songwriters to emerging acts, the beautiful and bespoke three-day event will truly embody the spirit of all things folk. This year’s Spirit of Folk festival line up features: Irish singer/songwriter and twice winner of the Meteor award for Best Folk/Trad, John Spillane; The Lost Brothers, an Irish duo hailing from Omagh and Navan, as seen on RTE’s Other Voices; Lisa O’Neill, rapidly emerging as one of the
truest contemporary Irish folk voices and recently returned from touring with Welsh singer David Gray; I Draw Slow, a fivepiece outfit comprising alt-country, folk, roots, old-time Americana; Spook of the Thirteenth Lock, Irish folk rock band delving into the realms of psych, prog and post rock and Cry Monster Cry, who have just launched their new EP. F e s t i v a l d i r e c t o r, Natasha Duffy, commented: “We are delighted and proud to announce the fantastic line up we have planned for this year’s Spirit of Folk festival. In our sophomore year, we aim to truly celebrate Irish folk in a relaxed family-friendly setting with great music and events for everyone to enjoy – a magical way to bid farewell to summer and finish the festival season in style!” Other acts featuring at this year’s festival include: Tucan; The Hot Sprockets; Mossy Nolan; The Henry Girls; The Young Folk; Tir na nOg; Aoife Scott; Jig away the Donkey; Pete Cummins; The Bonny Men; Traz; The Man Whom, Gypsy Rebble Rabble; Bunoscionn;
Trad side of the moon; Wookalilly; Alpaca Jamboree; Miriam Donohue; Joy Booth; TAC; Twin Headed Wolf; The Eskies; Hidden Highways and JP Trio and Niamh. To accompany this feast of musical acts, there will be an abundance of alternative events for all to enjoy, including storytelling and poetry reading by Pat Speight, Eddie Lenihan, Tim Evans, Jack Sheehan and Stephen James Smith; as well as talks and workshops on ancient druidism and shamanism; Tibetan Mandala making and singing bowls; Native American pipe ceremonies; dreams analysis; and ancient astronomy and permaculture. A limited supply of Early Bird weekend tickets for €65 and day tickets for €35 will be available until May 31 only. From June onwards, weekend tickets will cost €85 and day tickets will cost €45. To purchase your Spirit of Folk 2012 tickets go to www.tickets.ie. For more information, check out www.spiritoffolk.com or follow us on Twitter (@ Spirit_of_Folk) or like us on Facebook.com/spiritoffolkfestival.
31 May 2012 GAZETTE 15
RENT Landlords can keep deposits in ways inconsistent with law
Tilting balance of fairness back in favour of tenants P N TD on a bill to reduce the number ATRICK
ULTY
of times tenants unfairly lose their deposits BEFORE I was elected a TD, I was employed as a policy analyst with Focus Ireland, who work on housing issues affecting those on the front line of our housing crisis. That is those who have lost their homes, or are at risk of becoming homeless. Almost one in seven of those currently accessing Focus Ireland homeless services are children. But no statistic can describe the pain of those experiencing life without a home. And yet, the facts and figures of our housing crisis need to be understood. • 300,000 homes in Ireland are currently unoccupied. • 100,000 households are currently on the housing list. • One in 10 mortgages are now in arrears. Our housing system is dysfunctional and in crisis. Individuals and families want security, whether they are renting their homes or paying mortgages. In particular, issues of security frequently arise in the private rented sector with regard to deposits. Tenants are required to come up with at least one month’s rent as a deposit. For many, the deposit is a form of saving. They rely on the deposit to use for their next home; if and when they move out of their current accommodation. There are approximately one quarter of a million tenancies registered in the country with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB). Illegal deposit retention is one of the most common problems experienced by tenants in the private rented sector. The Residential Tenancies Act 2004, sets how a
deposit can be retained by the landlord in very specific instances such as rent arrears, damage beyond normal wear and tear or outstanding utility bills. The Threshold Annual Report for 2011 shows that some landlords are withholding deposits in a way which is totally inconsistent with the law. Tenants are at risk of becoming homeless when a landlord unfairly withholds their deposit. In 2010, Threshold dealt with 3,224 deposit queries. In 79% of these cases, they were successful in ensuring a full or partial refund of the deposit for the tenant. Many of these cases have to be referred back to the PRTB and some reach the courts. This has been a time consuming process, and a burden for those who need the deposit for a new home. Last week, I sought leave to introduce a bill which, if passed by the Dail and Seanad, will bring in a deposit retention scheme for those renting in the private rented sector. The bill, if passed, will allow for rental deposits to be held by an independent third party. This bill will now be debated in Dail private members’ time within the next few months. I hope the Government will accept the bill as a review of potential deposit retention schemes is already underway within the Department of the Environment. This bill (if passed) would ensure that deposits are returned promptly, unless a landlord has valid claims for damage, withheld rent or unpaid bills. There are examples of such models in Britain and Australia. According to Threshold,
these schemes have greatly reduced the number of times tenants unfairly lose their deposits. The deposits can be managed by the National Treasury Management Agency. Any surplus or interest generated could be used to regulate and improve standards in the private rented sector. A recent PrimeTime programme (May 10) estimated that in 2010 local authorities only inspected 7% of private rented dwellings.
This is unacceptable. There is widespread recognition that a deposit retention scheme makes sense. In November of last year, the then Minister for Housing Willie Penrose said: “I have asked the PRTB to research potential schemes and to provide me with a sound evidential base on which I can make a decision in this regard and I intend to make recommendations to Government on this topic in 2012. A deposit retention
scheme was also included in the Labour Party manifesto for the 2011 General Election. I am very hopeful that the Dail and Seanad will accept the proposal and a deposit retention scheme will be established. It would be a first step in tilting the balance of fairness back in favour of tenants.
Patrick Nulty TD Labour Party TD for Dublin West and Swords
Patrick Nulty TD (Lab): “No statistic can describe the pain of those experiencing life without a home.”
16 GAZETTE 31 May 2012
GazetteSTYLE STYLE Facts about treating angina ALMOST 1-in-25 Irish adults have had an angina or heart attack, according to a recent report. Angina is a message from your heart telling you that it is suffering from a lack of blood-carrying oxygen. There is an important balance between the amount of blood your heart muscle demands and the ability of the coronary arteries to supply that blood. The heart demands are increased by infections, and high blood pressure. The blood supply is reduced by narrowed arteries, or a low blood count. Correcting this balanced is achieved through lifestyle changes and use of anti-anginal drugs. The other important aspect of treating angina is to prevent the disease in the arteries getting worse through modifying risk factors, such as cholesterol, blood pressure, smoking, weight and inactivity. Speak to your GP or pharmacist for information about angina and its risk factors. With thanks to the staff at Lucan Village Pharmacy
Edited by Laura Webb
Getting fit is a ‘Sure’ thing at Zumba class T claims to be “unapologetically strong” offering women “maximum protection”, so when Gazette Style got the chance to trial out Sure’s new deodorant, we were ready to put it to the test. What better way to spend a Saturday afternoon than getting in a little gentle exercise, or so we thought. The Zumba class, organised by Sure for Women, turned out to be an energetic hour that definitely tests endurance and sweat glands. The instructor putting us through our paces was Zumba guru, Larissa Atkinson. Before starting, the group of about 20 women (and a few men) lathered the cream-like deodorant under arms before testing it during the class. Starting off, it seemed like a walk in the park, a bit of Latin dancing moves here and there. Then, as if someone had changed the record to fast forward, the moves
I
got faster and a bit more intense and it was then we knew we were in for a good workout. After each song, we were given a short water break, but that didn’t last long and we were back into the swing of it before we could say agua. Zumba offers a really good cardio workout, but at the same time, it is a lot of fun. After a good hour of jumping, salsa, bellydancing and squatting it was time to check how Sure’s Maximum Protection deodorant worked out. Lifting arms it was clear to see that this deodorant does exactly what it says on the bottle – it keeps you dry in any situation. Even talking to the instructor, Larissa, she was pleasantly surprised by it and said she would be recommending it to her class participants. Aches and pains throughout the body days after the session showed us that Zumba works well as a workout.
A good hour of jumping, salsa and bellydancing at a Zumba class was no match for Sure Maximum Protection
So, here comes the science, how does the deodorant work? According to Sure, this product is two times stronger than the leading antiperspirant and is designed to keep you protected whatever the situation. Sure Maximum Protection has a TRIsolid formula made
up of three components. Firstly, it has extra strength dryness protection. While you sleep it forms a level of protection, giving you unbeatable wetness protection for the day ahead. The second component is its patented fragrance technology containing
odour-protecting microcapsules. The microcapsules dissolve when you sweat, so you keep smelling fresh throughout the day and, thirdly, it has skin conditioning ingredients that help to protect the skin from irritation. Use Sure Maximum
Protection in Confidence for an extra boost in a stressful situation. For delicate skin, try Sensitive to keep dry without compromising the skin and for an everyday clean feeling use the classic Clean Fresh Scent. The RRP for Sure Maximum Protection is €6.87
‘Unleash your upper East Side girl’ this summer at Forever 21
Beige skirt, ¤19.90
Light pink dress, ¤28.90
Turquoise jeans, ¤21.90
THIS summer, why not become a lady what lunches and use stylish restaurants and bistros as your very own catwalk with a little help from clothing giant Forever 21. This season Forever 21 is urging Dubliners to “unleash your upper East Side girl” with a fabulous collection of muted pastels and gorgeous neutrals – a must have this spring/summer and great for when out lunching. Key pieces from the collection can transform a wardrobe and create numerous different styles that suit every day of the week, or even help transition from day to night wear.
This collection has delicate lace and textured knits that pair with fitted skirts or fab block colour skinnies – great for those dull days that see bursts of sun come through making you unsure about what to wear. Don’t be too quick to put the cardi at the back of the wardrobe, as they are good to keep at arm’s length, just in case the weather takes a turn for the worst. What’s even better about this collection, is that not only is it right on trend in terms of colour and style, it has very affordable price tags that won’t see you dipping in to your holiday savings. Looking through
some of the items, there is a chic cami for just €12.90 and a stunning dress that would make even Sienna Miller green with envy, as it is priced at a very affordable €28.90. The collection also has a number of different delicate blouses with a Peter Pan collar, which sits well on most necklines. Block colours, another must have, can be brought to life with some great skinnies at €21.90. Cozy cardigans and jumpers are also available at prices that make it hard to leave them sitting on the rails. Forever 21 is located in Jervis Street shopping centre.
31 May 2012 GAZETTE 17
GazetteMUSIC MUSIC
Edited by Rob Heigh
FastTunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods REMEMBER when you were in the awkward adolescent phase of hating everyone who was good to you (i.e. your parents) while spending your days vying for the attention of people who didn’t like you at all (i.e. the cool gang in school)? A rite of passage for many an agsty-teenager I thought, so since when did rock cleanse away the embarrassing-dad sydrome experienced by most of us during our younger days? Steven Tyler has spent the past season of American Idol making eyes and inappropriate comments at many female auditionees; Tom Jones has been deemed “down with the kids” enough to be given a judge’s seat on The Voice UK, while Rod Stewart will no doubt have to be introduced to Gary Barlow and Tulisa Contostavlos when he sits in as temporary judge for the next season of The X Factor. I’m in two minds whether to shout “over the hill!” or “still got it” at my TV screen.
The Walls and, inset, Jape, two of the acts who will be taking to the stage at Leopardstown Live this summer
FESTIVAL: A DAY AT THE RACES WITH ADDED ROCK
Leaping live at Leopardstown I ELLEN COONEY
M U S IC l ove r s w i l l have the chance to be up close and personal with Dublin talent this summer when Live At Leopardstown launches for a series of concerts that run from June 8 to August 16. There will be nine gigs spaced out over nine evenings, and Live at Leopardstown has managed to pack ten of Dublin’s brightest bands into their programme to play alongside other Irish greats. As if this ratio wasn’t impressive enough, eight out of the nine nights have a Dublin-based headliner. T he only night missing a Metropolitan monster of rock is the last night when a true national treasure, the Saw Doctors will take to the stage. Not only is the line-
up completely homegrown, but it’s prestigious to boot. Bipolar Empire will headline first on June 8, followed over the proceeding weeks with sets from The Original Rudeboys, The Walls, Kila, Jape, Royseven, The Minutes and Ryan Sheridan. These Dublin acts have shared the stage with some of the world’s greatest legends of rock, including U2, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Faithless and The Flaming Lips, and have performed at festivals such as Oxegen, Glastonbury and Electric Picnic. This is a lineup which is as eclectic as it is impressive, and will surely cater for the tastes of anyone wishing to attend. From Jape’s electronic rock to Ryan Sheridan’s acoustic sounds, there’s definitely something for
everyone. The support acts are also sure to draw in a crowd, with Cavan’s The Would Be’s stirring up some nostalgia and Cork’s Dead School throwing some post punk into the mix.
Horsing around Leopardstown will also be hosting its horse races alongside these music events, making sure that everyone is in for a fun-filled evening, combining the atmosphere of a boutique music festival with the thrill of a night at the races. In what is a somewhat precipitous move, the racecourse has decided to hold each of the live gigs in a weatherproofed Big Top, ensuring that the attendees can be certain of a warm and more importantly dry evening of entertain-
ment with the possibility of a true Irish summer always on the horizon. Ciaran Conroy, commercial manager of Leopardstow n said: “Now in its fourth year, we’re proud that Live at Leopardstown has enabled many people to experience racing for the first time. “We are delighted to enhance the customer experience by hosting all our concerts under canvas in the Leopardstown Big Top. “ F o r 2 01 2 , we ’ ve added top-class support acts to further enhance the music element of the festival.” Racing will go to post between 5.30pm and 6.00pm and finishes up in time for the live music to commence between 8.30pm and 9.00pm. To find out more, go online to www.liveatleopardstown.com.
18 GAZETTE 31 May 2012
GazettePETS PETS
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
THE FACTS: A NUMBER OF GARDEN HAZARDS COULD PUT YOUR ANIMAL AT RISK
Keep your pet safe for summer UMMER has arrived at last and, as usual, our thoughts turn to the garden. However, this is also a time when the pet parent in me switches to “cautious” mode as I make a quick inventory of all the possible summer garden hazards that could place my doggies at risk. And no, I don’t mean weeds, I mean the following: And do bear in mind, these are only guidelines, I don’t have the full list, nor am I able to give information regarding the lethal dosage so if you are concerned, contact your vet.
S
Fertilizer T he fer tilizer that feeds your plants could
be the very thing that upsets your dog, especially if it contains ammonium nitrate which is toxic to animals.
Common plants Rhododendron and azalea, daffodil, hyacinth, tulip, hydrangea and foxglove to name but a few. Insecticides Insecticide baits, sprays, granules and herbicides are great for your garden but are not friendly to your dog, especially if they include ingredients like snail bait with metaldehyde and fly bait with methomyl. A tip! Don’t wear gardening shoes in the house; (those who
From garden tools to fertilizers, your garden could feature a number of threats for doggies
live chez moi already know the dangers of wearing muddy shoes in the house), they bring extra pesticides and dirt indoors, further exposing my pets when they lick their paws.
Coco mulch Ver y popular with the landscape gardener, but, as it’s a by-product
of chocolate it attracts dogs with its sweet aroma. Depending on the amount ingested, this can cause a variety of symptoms ranging from vomiting, diarrhoea, hyperactivity and even seizures. Consider using shredded pine or cedar instead?
Compost As an eco friendly kinda gal I understand the whole Mother Earth thing and composting is definitely the right way to go, but as an animal lover, I have to say, you’re posing a huge risk to your pets if you don’t do it properly and responsibly. We see a lot of incidents where dogs are being poisoned due to what is often referred to as “garbage gut”. Yo u s e e , t h e f e rmentation of certain items such as meat and dairy products means they produce clostridial toxins; these toxins languish in compost heaps, get raided by nosy canines who may then experience severe
symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea, resulting in you having to rush them to the family vet for urgent attention.
Tools of the Trade Keep an eye on rakes, hoes and trowels etc, they can prove dangerous to your pet’s nose, paws and other parts of his body, especially if they puncture his skin. If the tools are rusty or mucky, there is a danger of your dog getting tetanus. Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date and lock your gardening tools in the shed. Allergies Yep, pets have allergies just like you and
me and, if the reaction is severe it can cause anaphylactic shock. If you’re concerned or suspect your pet suffers from an allergy, have your vet give him the once over and he/she will best advise regarding medications and course of action to take. P l e a s e r e m e m b e r, the above information is only a guideline and is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are concerned about your pet, contact your family vet. For more information, log onto w w w. dspca.ie or contact your vet or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie
31 May 2012 GAZETTE 19
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS Taking account of real concerns
Supported by AIB
Interview: Kevin Kelly from TaxAssist Accountants in Dun Laoghaire
A NEW walk-in tax and accountancy advice service, TaxAssist Accountants, servicing small businesses and the self employed in the Dun Laoghaire area opened last year. The new business was launched by Kevin Kelly, an accountant with over 10 years’ experience. Having worked in various accounting roles throughout his career, Kevin decided to fulfil his ambition of opening his own business. The new practice aims to simplify the accounts and tax process and offer real value to clients. Clients can avail of a range of services such as tax returns, payroll, endof-year accounts and book-keeping all on a fixed fee basis. TaxAssist Accountants operates from a bright, open shop front on Patrick Street. The idea of the shop front is that clients can simply call in off the street to discuss their accountancy and tax matters without an appointment. Kevin said: “Traditionally, the accountants office is hidden away upstairs. I wanted to take away any of the formalities and make a trip to the accountants a more comfortable experience.” “Clients want a good, proactive service from their accountant without the expensive hourly rates that usually brings. We offer a free one hour consultation, and we always work on a fixed fee basis so there are no hidden fees and no shocks,” he concluded.
SAFETY OF DEPOSIT TAKER Q – I have €90,000 to invest and see that KBC Bank are doing an awful lot of advertising lately. How safe are they? Mark – Mount Merrion
Kevin Kelly of TaxAssist Accountants: “I want to make a trip to the accountants a more comfortable experience”
Q: What sport do you follow? A: I follow hurling, football
Q: What was your last Tweet/status update? A: Few comments on a re-
Q: What was your worst holiday experience? A: Ring of Kerry when we
Q: What was your first job? A: Helping out in my fa-
and basketball.
cent networking event.
Q: What is your guilty music/TV or movie pleasure? A: Bad action movies.
Q: Describe your dream meal? A: Starter: Smoked Salmon.
were young – it rained and we all got food poisoning. Been back a few times since and it was very enjoyable.
Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward? A: Jedward – double person-
Main (depends): Chicken rogan josh or steak and chips or penne arrabiata. Dessert: Chocolate and coffee.
Q: Describe your dream holiday? A: Family holiday by the sea
Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna? A: Enda Kenny.
Q: What would be your dream job? A: As the bass player in a
York for a summer during college.
Q: When did you start your present job? A: In January 2011. Q: What is the best thing about your job? A: I enjoy helping and advising a mix of businesses and individuals.
Q: What part of your working day do you “delegate”? A: Filing.
A – The easy answer to this is simply write to AIB and ask them to cancel the PPI element of your monthly payment. PPI gave some people peace of mind should they fall sick, have an accident or be made redundant. Your payments were paid up to 12 months until you recovered on any of the three fronts. Unfortunately, you will not be able to claim a refund, as you enjoyed the protection insurance during this period (a little like asking for refunds on life cover while you were covered all along). However, it was also massively missold because certain categories were unable to claim and should have been told at the outset by the sellers. Those NOT covered included:
If you are in any of these categories, email me for further details.
Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be? A: A Limerick hurler.
Q: And your first pay cheque? A: As a doorman in New
Q – I have had PPI on my AIB Visa card for years. How do I get rid of it and am I entitled to any refund of premiums ? Carmel – Blanchardstown
• Aged under 18, or over 65 years of age • Working less than 16 hours a week • Self-employed or unemployed • Have existing medical conditions • On contract or temporary work
Q&A
ther’s accountancy practice.
PAYMENT PROTECTION INSURANCE
ality with a short attention span and annoyingly entertaining.
Q: What music/pictures/ movies do you have on your iPod/iPad? A: Alternative and electronic music, wedding photos, comedy films.
Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook? A: Local businesses, music, sport and current affairs.
Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously? A: On holidays. Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own? A: Five pairs of shoes and five pairs of trainers.
and close to a town, with lots of good food.
well-respected and not too famous band.
Q: What do you plan to do when you retire? A: More family time, gigs, sporting events and travel.
A – As it happens, KBC Bank currently have the best interest rates both in the demand (fully accessible day to day – 3.25%) and 12-month fixed (4.15%) categories. They also bask in the comfort of the Deposit Protection Scheme guaranteeing up to €100,000 per person (underwritten ultimately by the Irish taxpayer) like all the Irish deposit takers in Ireland. The bigger picture is also reassuring, in that they have been in Ireland over 35 years with centres in Dublin, Cork, Belfast, Limerick, Cork and Galway, employing over 450 people. They are part of the Belgian KBC Group – KBC Bank NV based in Brussels and enjoy an A rating. So, with €90,000, you are safe as houses as the saying goes to deposit with them. You could go to any of their formally appointed agents and transact through them at no cost to you. Email me for details. Contact John with your money questions at
jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor
LOCALMATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS
ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZETTE CALL 60 10 240
20 GAZETTE 31 May 2012
GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY New design is a Knott classic IRELAND’S best known interior designer, Neville Knott, travelled to Rathfarnham for next week’s edition of Neville’s Doorstep Challenge on TV3, and the show sees him pay a visit to homeowner Mary in her apartment in Rathfarnham as she’s desperate to stop her home looking like a characterless rental. Talking about his design, Neville said: “Mary wanted a space she would be proud to have photos taken in on the day of her wedding. I created a strong focal point in the room by painting thick stripes in mink and soft grey which gave the room great width and a definite personality which it lacked before.” As well as being a famous face on TV, Neville is also colour consultant to Crown Paints and head of interior design at the Dublin Institute of Technology. Neville’s Door Step Challenge, in association with Crown Paints and Woodies DIY is on TV3 on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. To find out how Neville achieved the look, see www.facebook.com/crownpaints.
A beautiful extension might increase the value of your property, but understanding the costs of renovation is important, too
EXTENSIONS: TAKING INTO ACCOUNT ALL OF THE POSSIBLE COSTS
Understanding the costs of renovation When you are planning on extending your home, one question will occupy you more than any other: How much will the extension cost? There are a variety of answers, depending on the set of variables that makes up your building project. Each project is unique and each will have its own set of costs. When planning your project it’s very helpful to have an understanding of the items and factors that can affect costings. In this article we’ll cover the more common items, so when you look at a set of plans, you will be more knowledgeable about how costings are drawn up.
Your Site Access No matter what type of build you are planning, there will be some digging involved. The
access to the site can have a cost impact in a very simple way. If the build is happening at the rear of your house, can a digger gain access? Foundations can be excavated very quickly and efficiently with a digger. If there is no vehicular rear access, there may be no choice but for the foundations to be dug the old fashioned way, by hand, which will be more expensive in terms of time and money. Soil conditions: If there a massive depth of soil beneath your house, your builder may need to double to ensure solid foundations.
Drainage and pipes If there is a large manhole in your garden this is more than likely an access point to the community sewerage scheme which your local authority need to
have access to on a permanent basis. Perhaps the shape of the foundations will have to be altered or adjusted to take the manhole into account. Design changes above standard layouts will be more costly.
The new structure A standard, off the shelf design is more cost effective to build then a complex, once off, unique, project. All that aside, this is your home you are dealing with so as long as you are aware that complexity equals additional expense, you are going into the project with your eyes open. Materials, finishes You would be amazed at the impact seemingly insignificant decisions can have on the bottom line cost of a building project. Bear items on
this list in mind when you are putting your budget together. Insulation - standard or future proof? It may be cheaper up front to just go for a standard insulation, but more high quality products may have a future saving in terms of running costs of the finished property. Inside finishes – kitchen/tiles/layout/electrical points/plumbing/ electrical points. More than likely you will be buying a new kitchen as part of your build. The quality and costs of kitchen units can vary widely, so shop around before you buy. If you put your new kitchen in the same position as your old kitchen there will be a lower building cost as pipes/electrics may not
have to be moved. If you swap your kitchen and your dining room around, there will be a big cost in new pipework. Do you really need those marble tiles in the hall? And what about those brushed chrome light switches, gorgeous to look at, but standard white plastic one do the exact same job at a much lower cost. Hopefully after reading this article, you will have a better idea of the costs involved in building your dream home and when you go to put your project out to tender, you will be able to digest the different quotes with a bit more understanding. To get in touch with HSLC, find them online at www.hslc.ie or call Gerhard on 087 774 9470 or info@hslc.ie
31 May 2012 GAZETTE 21
GazetteMOTORS MOTORS
Edited by Cormac Curtis
RoadSigns Road Signs NEW FOCUS LIMITED EDITION:
All in all, the new Mercedes B-Class is a seriously attractive car
Taking it to a new level CORMAC CURTIS
MERCEDES Benz have not been sitting on their laurels in recent times. Even a cursory glance at the striking and imaginative marketing and advertising campaigns they have been rolling out will tell you that the German brand have their sights firmly on younger drivers. This is new territory for the marque, who have more traditionally appealed to an older, more executive level of driver. But this new direction shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. It was as far back as 2005 when the company first broke ranks by introducing the family-friendly B-Class. What is both encouraging and reassuring is that, despite all the attention and resources being devoted to some new models in the line-up, cars such as the B-Class are being revamped and improved to a staggering extent. For 2012, not only has
SPECS: MERCEDES BENZ B-CLASS Top speed: 0 – 100km/hr: 10.9 secs Economy: 4.4 – 4.6 l/100km Combined CO2 emissions: 114 – 121 g/km Entry Price: €29,330
the B-Class been given an incredibly sexy new look, it brings the compact class to an entirely new level as it is the first model change in the company’s history to have so many new features introduced at one time. It also comes on the market with an entry-level price that Mercedes-Benz says is 11% lower than the model it replaces. Putting the new features and sticker price to one side, when it comes to a car like the B-Class, to put it through its paces requires a few passengers, as well as some distance to travel. So, the timing of the B-Class road test couldn’t have been better – the May Bank Holiday week-
end was coming up, so, I made preparations to take the family south to West Cork for a few days. En route, we had to stop for a night in Kinsale, the Kinsale Rugby Sevens event was on, so we had to swing by to soak up some of the atmosphere. Kinsale may have a reputation for excellent seafood, but what they don’t tell you in the tourist brochure is that the town is like a maze, with some exceptionally narrow little alleys to navigate. After taking one wrong turn on the way to our rented holiday home, I was seriously impressed with the tight turning circle of the B-Class – one hard lock of the steering wheel and we pulled off a perfect U-turn. That’s skipping ahead a little – let’s get back to the start. Mercedes have managed to fit an enormous amount of space in to the B-Class. They tell us that the seats are more upright and set lower to the road, resulting in improved headroom. Rear-seat passengers
have bundles of space, and there is serious load capacity in the boot, 486-1,545 litres in fact. There is even an optional feature that allows the rear seats to be adjusted forwards/ backwards to facilitate bulkier items. All this passenger and storage space has not translated into a bulky, gas-guzzling machine – far from it. Outstanding aerodynamics help to deliver low fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions, while a standard item on all B-Class models is an ECO start/stop function. I have to admit, I wasn’t a huge fan of this particular start/stop system, but it’s one of those features that you do get used to, and it does make life easier on the wallet! The car comes with a number of engine options, in Ireland, the model likely to account for the bulk of sales is the 109bhp entry level B180 CDI, which comes on the market at €29,330, with annual road tax of €160. A second diesel is
a 2.0-litre/136bhp unit, the price of which will be announced later. In petrol form, the first version to go on sale is the 122bhp B180BlueEFFICIENCY selling at €29,890 with annual road tax of €225. A 2.0-litre/156bhp BlueEFFICIENCY version will be added to the range at a later date. There is a completely new six-speed manual transmission, boasting easy gear change and low shift forces, although my biggest gripe with this car is the reverse gear – I just couldn’t get used to the unusual position, the upper left, as well as the push/pull mechanism to get the gear lever through the gate. Most of the time, the only occasion for a reviewer to see emergency stopping features in effect is at demonstrations laid on by the manufacturer, but in this case I got a taste of just how good the Mercedes safety kit is. While driving through North Strand in heavy traffic, my attention was not what it should have
been, and I was driving a little quickly towards a stopped car. The new radar-based collision prevention warning system kicked in and an alarm sounded. Thankfully, I braked in time and avoided any kind of contact – much to the relief of Mercedes I’m sure. Other safety features on board the new B-Class include items imported from larger MercedesBenz such as adaptive headlamp, blind spot, lane keeping and speed limit assist systems along with parking assist, hill hold brake function, reversing camera and distance control. All in all, this is a seriously attractive car. The interior is pure Mercedes, with some nice, subtle nods to a more modern look and feel. The quality is everything you would expect, and the performance, safety, and economy have all taken large steps forward, and all for a seriously competitive price. This is a car that will fit the bill for any family on the move.
THE Ford Focus, has seen its range extended with the announcement of a new Focus Limited Edition Series. The new models are badged as Focus Zetec S and Titanium X. The Zetec S combines a strong visual appeal with a sporty image and relies on Ford’s fuel efficient 1.6-TDCi diesel engine with the option of 95PS or 115PS outputs (5-door only). The Titanium X is available in 4- and 5-door models and is powered by the same 1.6-TDCi diesel engine. The spec includes the following features: 17” titanium alloys; deflation detection system; active park assist; visibility pack; Bluetooth Voice Control and USB connectivity; and full size spare wheel. Prices start at €24,927 ex–works.
22 GAZETTE 31 May 2012
GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Joe Walsh tours is offering escorted tours to explore Italy and Portugal in style THE days of the sun lounger may be numbered as Irish tourists search for alternative ways to see Europe. Ireland’s longest running tour operator, Joe Walsh Tours, currently has four fabulous escorted tours on offer for those wanting a different kind of holiday this summer. These group tours will allow you to explore the culture and history of Italy or the beauty and heritage of Portugal. Whether you want to soak up the sun while relaxing on the Lisbon Coast, exploring the winding streets of Venice, taking an evening stroll to the Trevi fountain or simply discovering the beauty of Rome, Joe Walsh tours will let you do it in comfort. You will travel on a luxury coach to each of your destinations, and spend each night in a four-star hotel. Each tour differs from the others, and covers a vast amount of sightseeing, relaxation and fun, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Each tour is accompanied by an experienced Joe Walsh Tours representative, so you can be certain you will see the most wonderful regions of each country, and the gems of each city. All four tours are seven nights in length and range in price from €774 to €975. Each tour is an all-inclusive package and includes your return flights (including taxes and charges), airport transfers, hotel accommodation, tours and excursions on a luxury coach and the assistance of a Joe Walsh representative. As the longest established tour operator in Ireland, with over 50 years’ experience, Joe Walsh Tours will make sure that your holiday is definitely one to remember. For further information on these tours or to book, visit www.joewalshtours.ie, call 012410800 or email info@joewalshtours.ies
Edited by Mimi Murray
PORT OF CALL: LET AMERICAN HOLIDAYS SHOW YOU THE SITES
Getting the best from the US SUMMER can be a busy time for some people, making it difficult to avail of standard package holidays. American Holidays are now offering beautiful autumn cruises throughout the months of October and November. There are three different cruises to choose from, covering six of the United State’s most popular and influential cities, and also providing a number of nights to sail the seas in luxury. The cruises range in price from €1,695pp to €1,829pp. The first of these trips begins in Orlando, Florida, where you will stay for five nights in The Rosen Inn, just a stone’s throw away from all of Orlando’s attractions.
Enjoy some southern hospitality in Nashville, Tennessee
Next on the agenda is four nights aboard Royal Caribbean’s Monarch of the Seas. On your fifth day aboard, you will dock in Nashville, Tennessee to enjoy some southern hospitality and comfort food at the Doubletree Hotel.
If you’re looking for a taste of politics, culture art and music, why not choose a trip which starts with a luxury hotel stay in Washington DC and includes a cruise covering New England and Canada.
Your trip will be rounded off with eight nights aboard Royal Caribbean’s Enchantment of the Seas, where you will have the chance to visit five different ports of call including Portland, Maine and Halifax, Nova Scotia.
For a little glamour with your sun, why not try the Eastern Caribbean cruise. Starting at the Miami Beach Resort and Spa Hotel, you will relax in the tropical surroundings complete with a semi-private beach. After resting up, you will spend seven nights aboard the Norwegian Cruise line ship, Norwegian Epic, before arriving in Las Vegas for four nights. Here you can take in the sights, avail of the attractions on the Las Vegas Strip. For more information or to make a booking, call American Holidays on 01 6733800, or call into 18-19 Duke Street, Dublin 2 to speak with their expert staff.
CITY BREAK: POLISH CITY HAS BECOME A HUB OF ACTIVITY
Poznan preparing for a world of fans I ELLEN COONEY
HE city on everyone’s lips this summer is Poznan, host to UEFA EURO 2012. Previously, a relatively unknown city among the Irish, Poznan has been busy in preparation to offer our fans a spectacular welcome. Despite being one of the oldest cities in Poland, Poznan is home to some incredible and modern architecture. Its new railway station with its smooth curves, glass walls and geometric garden areas is the perfect welcome to this ever developing city. These sleek developments offer a perfect contrast to the city’s picturesque recreation areas which include four lakes, 40 parks and 100 green areas.
T
There is no shortage of entertainment in the city which thrives on the energy of the new European countries while meeting with the culture of Western civilisation. For beer lovers there are beer tasting events and free tours of the Lech brewery, and Poznan has one of the largest numbers of pubs in Poland. There is also a variety of shopping options and an all-year-round ski slope for those seeking something a little different. This bustling city has recently become a big player in the world of sporting events. The stadium which will hold this year’s UEFA EURO 2012 was finished in September 2010 and has since hosted four Europa League matches and the Red Bull X Fighters. The
Poznan is host to UEFA EURO 2012
city is also a popular destination for canoe teams and the Lake of Malta has been deemed one of the finest rowing venues in the world. Especially for UEFA EURO 2012 the city will designate a specialised FanZone, which will
hold around 30,000 and will be a hive of activity for fans during the final tournament. There will be events every day from June 8 until July 1, including live music acts. There are also two Fan Camps planned in Poznan with 10,000
places. Attendants can rent student dormitories, flats and houses. With thousands of fans destined for this stunning city in the coming months, Poznan will surely become a popular destination for global travellers in the future.
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GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT
GoingOUT THE PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Travesties
FOLLOWING the hugely successful and popular Plaza Suite, Rough Magic are back at the Pavilion Theatre with the delicious comedy Travesties by Tom Stoppard. Best-known as the author of the Oscar-winning film Shakespeare in Love and the plays Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead and Arcadia, Stoppard is at his best in this absurdly funny masterpiece featuring James Joyce, Vladimir Lenin and Dadaist Tristan Tzara. Running from June 7 to 23, tickets are priced from €18 to €25.
MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Bloomsday Celebration THE Mill Theatre and Roly Saul’s present a special Bloomsday Celebration Brunch to mark the 90th anniversary of the publication of Ulysses. Join the team in Roly Saul’s restaurant for a buffet brunch with fare inspired by Leopold Bloom’s breakfast, including a glass of burgundy! Brunch will be accompanied by theatrical readings from Ulysses and music and song from the Joyce era. The celebration takes place on Saturday, June 16 from 11.30am. Tickets are priced at €15.
CIVIC THEATRE 01 462 7477 Ardal O’Hanlon AWARD winning comedian, actor, writer - and star of Father Ted (C4), My Hero (BBC 1), Val Falvey (RTE) and Leagues Apart (RTE), Ardal O’Hanlon brings his unique brand of stand up comedy back to Ireland. A highly acclaimed stand up, Ardal has toured to sell out audiences internationally and has released two Top 10 stand up DVDs. He continues to be one of the most sought after comedians working with regular sell out solo tours in the UK, USA and Australia. Catch him on June 6 at 8pm, tickets are €20.
DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Niamh Kavanagh and her band NIAMH’S back with her brilliant blend of rock, soul, r&b, Eurovision hits, tracks from her successful albums and her own favourites with that amazing voice Commitments’ director Alan Parker ‘‘had to have’’. Described as the ‘‘Rolls Royce’’ of Irish singers, Niamh Kavanagh represented Ireland at the Eurovision twice, collecting maximum points from the Irish vote, and is the voice behind three of the biggest hits from the Commitments ever. Catch her on June 30 with tickets €20/€16.
There are fights in apartment rooms, in the corridors, through the floors, out the windows... Basically there are a lot of fights.
Films still fighting fit A Welsh man has made the newest non stop, adrenalin pumping, action classic... In Indonesia. Are you sure? I NIALL BERMINGHAM
THE BRAINCHILD of Welsh writer/director, Gareth Evans, and a completely Indonesian cast and crew, The Raid is without doubt one of the best action films to come along since the heyday of action. Garnering huge interest for itself with tremendously successful festival showings (winning both the Dublin Film Critics Circle Best Film and Audience Award at the Jameson Dublin International Film Festival), it lives up to the hype and some. The film has been made to showcase the traditional Indonesian martial art Pencak Silat, which lends itself very well to film. It is a hard hitting, high kicking, and bone crunching style of martial arts that has no qualms about integrating weapons when the need is there.
FILM OF THE WEEK: The Raid ##### (18) 101 mins Director: Gareth Evans Starring: Iko Uwais, Donny Alamsyah, Joe Taslim, Ray Sahetapy, Yayan Ruhian, Tegar Satrya
OUR VERDICT: Better than any recent action film produced in Hollywood, or anywhere for that matter, The Raid will tick all the boxes for action fans of any age. The eastern insanity works brilliantly with director Evans’ western sensibilities. It’s probably not one for an evening of romance, but for a straight up, balls-to-the-wall action experience, this is as good as it gets.
Perhaps not for the faint of heart, The Raid does not shy away from visceral action; however that is not the only thing on show. Scenes of extreme tension and genuine comedy are also offered up by Evans. T he stor y follows a SWAT team as they try to overthrow drug lord, Tama Riyadi (Ray Sahetapy) from within his base of operations in a multi-storey apartment block in the centre of the Jakarta slums. The team has everything you’d expect, new guys, tough guys, old guys, and a level headed
and well respected leader. They all have their place in the film and each one fits fabulously. The lead is played by Iko Uwais (who along with Yayan Ruhlan mapped out all the action), a new member to the SWAT team, who has personal reasons for entering the apartment block. As the team work their way up floor by floor, not everything goes to plan (if it had, it wouldn’t have been much of a film) and soon all hell breaks loose. The team are left fighting for their lives with their weapons
and soon their fists and then just about whatever they can find (the most novel being a fridge). Meanwhile we see drug lord Tama as he reacts to the police invasion and seeing as he is a paranoid mob boss his decisions are not the most rational. He calls on wave after wave of his henchmen to attack the quickly diminishing SWAT force. When he finds that there are still some police left he unleashes his two right hand men to personally take care of it. Here, we are introduced to the two most interesting characters of the film. Andi (Donny Alamsyah) and “Mad Dog” (Yayan Ruhlan) have two different roles in the movie. “Mad Dog” is the main antagonist, engaging in prolonged fight scenes with some of the remaining SWAT team, whereas Andi operates from the shadows,
scheming and brooding. With tremendous variety separating all the set pieces, you will spend all evening recounting your favourite punch, or the kick that made you grimace the most. My favourite scene involved a fire escape and a three storey fall. It all culminates for a fantastic ending leaving you wanting more and, thankfully, Evans has something up his sleeve to offer. Plans to turn this film into a trilogy began as early as script development so of course there is a wide open ending, and as this is an Asian film that has performed well internationally, there are talks of an American remake. Now af ter all the gushing I’ll just say that if you like action, you’ll love this, and if not, then there’s always the new American Pie...
31 May 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25
GazetteGAMING GAMING Bytesandpieces Arise, Sir iconic Apple designer ...
Clementine’s parents are missing now that zombies have overrun America, and possibly the world – but, luckily, she can rely on Lee to look out for her, when they cross paths in the surprisingly strong character-driven first chapter of the cross-platform title, The Walking Dead
Dead entertaining SHANE DILLON
I’M NOT quite sure why, but the zombie genre has risen again in popular media, and is shuffling forward once more, relentlessly making tracks into popular culture. While the world and his dog awaits the Brad Pittstarring World War Z at cinemas at the end of the year, the small screen has been well served with the surprise hit, The Walking Dead, based on the popular, long-running graphic novels of the same name. In a canny move, and in a pretty shrewd marrying of adventure gaming with
survival horror, developer Telltale Games rolled out its version of The Walking Dead recently which, for some – and apologies here – will be dead entertaining, while other gamers may not see it as a very lively title. Telltale has made a name for itself with its adventure titles, which range from decent hits to dreadful misses, as with any other developer out there. However, The Walking Dead – and the major intellectual property that the title represents, these days – gave the developer the chance to step
away from conventional adventure gaming scenarios and puzzles into darker territory. Set in the by now familiar setting of a post-apocalyptic America, courtesy of the long-promised zombie armageddon, in The Walking Dead: A New Day, the player takes control of Lee Everett, a man with a murky past, who starts off in the back of a patrol car, on his way to jail. One unexpected crash later, and Lee comes to – only to find that there are Walkers – zombies – everywhere, and the world’s falling to pieces.
Anotherweebyte... Questions over Facebook’s tumbling shares ... AS EXPECTED, there was enormous interest over the inevitable initial public offering (IPO) of Facebook, which went public very recently with a barely comprehensible value of $104 billion. However, market analysts almost immediately started asking questions about the subsequent tumble in the company’s share values, with negative shifts reported in a short period – three days after floating on Nasdaq, shares were trading at 18% below the $38 offer price, seeing billions (at the time of writing) written down from the company’s value – not what many expected, though, no doubt, shares will bounce back. Also at the time of writing, a number of American lawsuits querying how the company had been valued emerged, focusing on how the company had been valued, and who has acccess to such valuations. Regardless of how such developments pan out, it’s interesting to see such unexpected stories centred around the normally unassailable social media giant ...
From there on, it’s down to the player to steer Lee down a linear route in this, the first downloadable chapter of a series, as he meets other survivors, tries to stay alive, and begins to work out what’s going on. However, as it’s a Telltale game, this means lots of looking around screens/the environment for items to use, collect or activate, with occasional bursts of Quick Time Event (QTE) action breaking up events. After all, checking out the kitchen of a seemingly deserted house – only for a Walker to
suddenly jump out of the shadows – practically demands a QTE event, for Lee to frantically try and escape. Interestingly, while such action set pieces aren’t very common, there’s a lot of character interaction, as Lee meets other survivors and the things he says affect how they treat him. With this divertingly interesting first instalment, which is available on a number of gaming platforms (bar IOS), here’s hoping that Telltale can continue with the quality it’s established in this chapter.
Gaming star treks off to a movie role CONTINUING to name significant people that many readers may not know of, one of Gaming’s most prolific and well-known (yet littleknown to non-gamers) stars, Nolan North, has made another addition to his already colossal CV. While it’s very common for cinema stars to do voiceover work for games, Nolan – “the” voice of gaming, for many, given the staggering range of characters he has voiced – has reversed the trend, and has been given a role on the upcoming blockbuster, Star Trek 2, thanks to his impressive voiceover skills. No doubt the news that he’s joining Kirk and co has left him beaming with happiness ...
WHILE I couldn’t throw an iPad out the window without probably hitting someone who immediately piped up with “Steve Jobs” if I asked him or her who had created it, that’s not strictly true. In fact, British designer Jonathan Ives is the man behind many of Apple’s iconic products’ designs over the past two decades, with the 45-year-old responsible for the 1993 iMac G3’s design, and, from there, other such iconic Apple products as the iPod, iPhone and iPad. While you’d have to search long and hard up and down streets all around the world to find people who’d be able to pull Ives out of a line-up, such general anonymity doesn’t bother the designer, with, perhaps, such design achievements under his belt to comfort him – not to mention a significant amassed fortune from his work, innumerable awards, and such titles as Commander of the British Empire, which he was awarded in 2005. Last week, the latest honour for Ives was being knighted by Princess Anne. (Now) Sir Ives continues to prove that visionary designers are still very much a core component of Apple’s success ...
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26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31 May 2012
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31 May 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27
GazetteSPORT
MAY YOU BE CHAMPS: This month’s Sports Awards winners are announced: Page 29
GAELIC GAMES: OPEL ANNOUNCE 2012 INITIATIVE TO HELP LOCAL CLUBS KIT UP
Rushe on points for clubs seeking new equipment sport@gazettegroup.com
ST PAT’S Palmerstown and Dublin senior hurling star Liam Rushe was on hand last week when the Opel Ireland 2012 Kit For Clubs initiative was launched at Croke Park, with all sports fans across the city called upon to support their local GAA clubs. Dublin GAA fans can collect points to earn free sports kit and equipment for their local GAA club
through the initiative. For every car service (10 points), test drive (10 points), or Opel purchase (200 points) made through the Opel Dealer Network, the club you support is awarded points which can be built up and redeemed against highquality kit. GAA clubs can choose from an extensive range of kit which includes everything from sliotars (5 points) to footballs (10 points) and from
goal posts (100 points) to tackle bags (100 points). New to the programme this year is the addition of juvenile club jerseys (800 points) and senior club jerseys (1,000 points), provided by Masita, official supplier of the GAA. The Kit for Clubs initiative is about supporting local Dublin GAA clubs across the county. Liam Ware from Mallow GAA Club, outlines how his club has benefited from the initiative: “Since
Liam Rushe, Colm Cooper and Jackie Tyrrell with Derry and Christian Finlay at the launch of Kit For Clubs
this scheme started, Mallow GAA club have been able to obtain both playing kit and training equipment, otherwise, we probably would not have been able to get this gear due to limited resources.”
Paraic Duffy, the GAA’s director general said: “The advantages of being involved in a scheme such as this are obvious and the provision of training and playing gear is a welcome payback to our members
and clubs who look to Opel for their motoring needs. It is also encouraging to see some of our top players supporting this scheme and lending their profile to help raise awareness about what is
an excellent initiative.” Log onto www.opelkitforclubs.com, on Facebook or visit your local Opel dealer to register your club and start building your GAA club’s points.
28 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31 May 2012
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
CYCLING: SERIES OF LADIES RACES BEGIN THIS WEEK IN CLON
Fahey bows out of Euro 2012 with groin strain FORMER Bluebell United man Keith Fahey was dealt a rough hand when he was forced to rule himself out of the Republic of Ireland’s Euro 2012 campaign at the very last moment. During the warm-ups in last weekend’s Republic of Ireland friendly win against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Fahey felt something not quite right and went for a scan following the match. The results the FAI medical team received from the scan showed, unfortunately, that his groin strain was persisting. The results were discussed with the player and he agreed that would not recover fully in time for Euro 2012. As a result, he departed from the squad just prior to the side travelling to Italy for their training camp, with Paul Green taking his place in the panel. Giovanni Trapattoni spoke to Fahey, who is very disappointed to miss out on Euro 2012, and told him that he remains part of his plans for the future. Fahey initially appeared to be on the mend after he participated in squad training in Malahide in the build-up to the Bosnia game, coming back into the fold with John O’Shea and Kevin Foley. The trio had all missed training earlier in the week due to knocks but those appeared to be easing as they took part in the workout. It precipitated the call-up of Paul McShane from the standby list for Saturday’s game while Clondalkin man Glenn Whelan also sat out training. The Stoke City midfielder was suffering with a sore throat but recovered to be available for Saturday’s friendly. Indeed, he started and felt he should have been awarded a 13th-minute penalty when he burst past central defender Sanel Jahic and appeared to be felled as he rounded Asmir Begovic.
Corkagh Park Ladies Racing series will take place every Tuesday evening from this week
Cycle at Corkagh Park I sport@gazettegroup.com
THE WOMEN’S Cycling Commission have announced that there will be ten more weeks of women’s cycle racing in the Corkagh Park Ladies Racing Series, keeping the momentum going from the successful Wheelworx Orwell Ladies Crit League. The races will be held at the new purposebuilt track at Corkagh Park, near Clondalkin, every Tuesday evening, with sign-on at the track commencing from 6.30pm. Depending on numbers, the races will follow the same format as the Crit League rounds, with handicapped A and B races starting at 7pm and 7.30pm respectively. Handicaps will
be updated on a nightly basis. A number of Leinster-based clubs have kindly volunteered to host these races. Bray Wheelers will kick off this series beginning this week and so far, Garda, Henry J Lyons, Lakeside, Orwell, Usher, Sundrive and Swords have volunteered to host other evenings in the series. The races are open to female riders of all fitness and ability levels including beginners, youths and juniors. With exper t advice on hand, this series is aimed at those interested in getting into racing for the first time and will be great for improving fitness, cornering and bunch skills. With its handicapped format, the races will also offer
good hard racing for more experienced riders. A properly serviced racing bike and correctly fitted helmet are essential. Those riding to and from the races should remember to bring lights and reflective gear as it will be getting dark after the races. Entry is €3 per night for seniors and €1 for
underage riders. Either a Cycling Ireland Full Competition or Club Competition Licence is required, but unlicensed riders can purchase a one-day Cycling Ireland licence on the night for €10. Organisers will also be accepting IVCA licences. For directions, results and photos, find the race series on Facebook at CorkaghParkLadies-
Racing. For further information, e-mail Siobhan O’Connor on cpladiesracing@gmail.com. T h e C PL R wo u l d also like to commend Cuchulainn CC on organising a Women’s Road League starting from Tuesday, June 5. For more information, see http://www.cuchulainncc.com/?page_ id=233.
31 May 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 29
ATHLETICS: GREAT DAY OUT ON SANDYMOUNT
2012 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS MAY WINNERS
STARof theMONTH LEO CULLEN BLACKROCK College man Leo Cullen further enshrined his name in Heineken Cup folklore this month when he led Leinster to a third success in four years in the competition against Ulster. It confirmed the current Blues’ crop as the greatest team in the competition’s history, becoming the first side to go through a season unbeaten.
TEAMof theMONTH ST BRIGID’S U-14S
ST BRIGID’S Under-14 hurlers and footballers celebrated a unique success this month when they claimed their respective Division 1 Feile titles at Parnell Park. Two weeks after the footballers captured their Feile title with a superb win over St Sylvester’s, the hurling side completed the double thanks to a memorable victory over Na Fianna. SUMMERTIME has officially arrived and while that unfamiliar orb hangs in the sky, let’s celebrate the achievements of the stars of Dublin sport for the month of May. Leo Cullen once again proved that he is the epitome of captainhood after he helped steer Leinster through the vagaries of the Heineken Cup unbeaten and unbowed, to claim their third title in the course of four years.
Dublin’s Lord Mayor Andrew Montague starts the race horn at Camara’s Sandymount 10K
Camara race nets €6k sport@gazettegroup.com
LAST Saturday morning saw the sun come out for the many dedicated runners who lined out for Camara’s 10K along the scenic backdrop of Sandymount strand. Dublin’s Lord Mayor, Andrew Montague, sounded the starter’s horn to a high-spirited crowd as everyone soaked up the atmosphere to help raise vital funds for eLearning opportunities in Irish schools.
Camara Education, a charity and social enterprise, works to deliver eLearning opportunities to schools in disadvantaged communities in Ireland, Africa and Jamaica through the reuse of technology. The annual 10K run, now in its third year, was a huge success as over €6,000 was raised on the day for Camara’s I r i s h S c h o o l ’s P r o gramme. T he proceeds will go to supply 55 Irish schools in need of
affordable IT with 1,100 computers and to train 300 school teachers in ICT in 2012. Commencing on the Promenade, Strand Road, the course stretched around Sean Moore Park and the Irishtown Nature Reser ve providing beautiful scenic views o f D u b l i n B ay f o r entrants. Lord Mayor Montague said: “I have been a long-time supporter of Camara. Having worked with them as a volunteer
Captains in Canada: All-Star ladies in Toronto St Brigid’s, in turn, showed the experience of youth in registering a unique double success in claiming the Dublin hurling and footballing Feile titles at Parnell Park, an achievement last recorded in the city by Ballyboden St Enda’s. Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin. Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes.
MEETING on an unfamiliar field last weekend were team captains Juliet Murphy, left, of Cork and the 2011 All Stars, and Denise Masterson, of Dublin and the 2010 All Stars, in the company of referee Keith Delahunty. The picture was taken before the game between the 2010 All Stars and 2011 All Stars in Centennial Park, Toronto, Canada, an exhibition game which took place as part of the 2012 TG4/O’Neills Ladies All-Star Tour.
www.gazettegroup.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away
in Uganda, Zambia and Tanzania, I am aware of the excellent work they do with children in Africa, Jamaica and Ireland to develop computer skills.” The first place prize on the morning went to Hugh Hunt who came in at 36:17. Accepting his first place trophy and medal, he said: “Today has been a fantastic day, great atmosphere and a beautiful course along the Strand on a sunny morning and all for a great cause.”
30 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31 May 2012
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
Sign up for CRY fivea-side tournament DUBLIN brothers Jonathan and Ken Treacy are organising their second annual charity fivea-side tournament and family fun day in aid of CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young), to help support the Screening Centre based in Tallaght hospital. A former League of Ireland player, Jonathan played for UCD in the 1990s. He was himself affected by this condition: during the 1996 season, he began to feel unwell during tougher games and decided to undergo tests. These tests showed that he had probable hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This condition can be a factor in Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS), which has received a lot of publicity due to the recent case of Fabrice Muamba, and the tragic deaths of Cormac McAnallen and other young sports people. Jonathan said: “I was lucky enough that the thickness of the muscle in my heart is very small and is in an area that doesn’t directly affect anything, so I was free to continue my life without any need for intervention. “My brother, Ken, plays top level hockey and the same thing developed at the same age with him but again, he is monitored every so often. “Because of the help and support that we have received from CRY, and Dr Deirdre Ward, in particular, my brother and I decided to organise a five-a-side tournament to raise funds. “Through the generous sponsorship of Astropark, Musgraves and others, we will hold the tournament in Astropark in Tallaght on Saturday, June 16, between 11am and 2.30pm. There will be a BBQ, bouncy castles, face painting and music there on the day so we are encouraging a fun, family atmosphere.” The brothers raised almost €4,000 last year with 100 players taking part in the tournament and friends and families coming along to support. This year they are hoping to double the numbers as there was such a positive reaction. Entry to the tournament costs €125 per team of five to seven players. This includes food and soft drinks at the barbeque. Players must be over 16 years old. Further details and information can be found on www.cry5asidechallenge. com or contact Jonathan Treacy at 085 2718851 or Lucia Ebbs at CRY on 01 4525482.
SOCCER: UNITED TAKE EXTRA-TIME TO CLAIM CUP VICTORY
Palmerstown United’s Under-13s were over the moon after their win in teh Celtic Horizons Cup last weekend
Palmerstown over Horizon SDFL CELTIC HORIZON Palmerstown United Confey
3 1
I sport@gazettegroup.com
PA L M E R S T OW N United continued their meteoric rise in their third season as a team together after they claimed the SDFL Under-13 Celtic Horizons Cup title last Sunday in Frank Cox Park, with a 3-1 extra-time win over Confey. Ben McShane netted twice in the second half of extra-time to eventually see off the challenge of their near neighbours on a scorching day in Rathcoole. Palmerstow n have
won back-to-back promotions since coming together as a group, and are looking for ward to the opening of their new clubhouse as the club goes from strength to strength. Confey, though, had started in the ascendancy, showing well and creating the best of the chances in the opening ten minutes of the cup final encounter. M c S h a n e ’s h e i g h t at the far end, though, was causing a number of problems in and around the box while, on 20 minutes, Palmerstown turned the tide and took the lead. Ky l e G o m e z w a s
Fabulous Francis: Saints claim the Gilligan Cup title ST FRANCIS defeated Dunboyne 3-1 in
the Gilligan Cup final last weekend. After back-to-back promotions, and a return to intermediate football, the win continues their recent rise having finished this year’s Senior 1B campaign in a consolidatory fifth place. Gavin Doyle’s penalty was cancelled out by Ross O’Toole but Anthony Shortt and Craig Gardner netted efforts from the Baldonnel club to take home the silverware from Balheary last Sunday.
the scorer with a truly exquisite effort which bounced out to him 30 yards from goal, and he struck the ball sweet and true to open the scoring in this tight tie. Confey’s response was swift, Ciaran Daniels testing Connor Masterson’s reflexes in the Palmerstown goal, while they had the box seat in territorial and possessional terms for the most part for the remainder of the first half. They were rewarded for their effor ts just past the 50 minute mark when Ben Coffey muscled in Daire Newcombe’s cross.
Confey carried that momentum into the first period of extratime, but Palmerstown always had a few tricks up their sleeve. It proved to be McShane’s power which won the day, sparking wild celebrations as Palmerstown continued their excellent run of success by lifting this trophy. Elsewhere, livewire T homas Oluna pro duced a whirlwind performance to inspire Beech Park to a superb Marie O’Reilly Cup final win last Sunday at Frank Cox Park ahead of near neighbours Esker Celtic, on a score-
ling of 6-1. The diminutive striker was to the fore throughout while Michael Pop and Andrew Conlon weighed in with a double apiece for a fine win. It left the scoreline between the two local rivals looking onesided, but Esker were game opposition and had their moments. But they were always chasing the game from the moment Oluna netted a virtuoso opener in the ninth minute, bursting past the last defender before showing delightful feet to round Cian McCraith and slot home calmly.
31 May 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31
FOOTBALL: LATE RALLY SEES YOUTHS THROUGH
CLUB NOTICEBOARD ROUND TOWERS MANY thanks to all our members
There will be four teams, and each
who helped with the Scrap Satur-
team will be rostered once a month
day collection at the weekend and
and no more than one hour will be
to those that helped with leaflets,
needed.
equipment, etc. The intermediate hurlers were beaten by Setanta in the championship, but advance to the quarterfinals.
If you are able to help please contact Matt McCormack on 087 683 6737 or email info@roundtower.ie Cooley Healthcare, specialists in the delivery of products that
This week’s Lotto numbers drawn
enhance quality of life are the lat-
were 7, 13, 14 and 27; Bonus Ball 25.
est company to team up with Round
There was no winner of this week’s
Towers. Cooley Healthcare offer a
Jackpot of €7,300.
broad range of healthcare aids and
Congratulations to David Kelly,
products, including stairlifts and
Bob Russell and Therese King, who
disabled-friendly bathrooms. Now
were the three €100 winners. Next
they have teamed up with Round
week’s jackpot is €7,400.
Tower GA A Club as par t of the
The Lotto committee are looking
Friends of Round Towers initiative
for your assistance to sell Towers
and would like to offer club mem-
Lotto tickets on a Friday evening
bers a 10% discount on services
for one hour once a month.
and products.
LUCAN SARSFIELDS Round Towers impressively closed out their tie against Scoil Ui Chonnaill to earn the right to contest the final
Towers reach the U-16 shield final UNDER-16 SHIELD S/F Round Towers Scoil Ui Chonnaill
6-9 2-11
I sport@gazettegroup.com
THREE goals in the space of two minutes turned Round Towers’ Under-16D shield semifinal at Monastery Road against Scoil Ui Chonnaill in favour of the home side, and means they will now compete for silverware in the Shield decider. With Towers trailing by a goal with eight minutes remaining, their half-for ward R ichie McGeever won a David Delaney free inside the box and, after being fouled, it was Delaney who stepped forward to bury the penalty into the roof of the net to bring the sides level. From the resulting kick-out, Cian Ryan won possession and his high ball into the box deceived the keeper to edge the home side ahead by three points.
The momentum was now decidedly with the home side, and it was another long range effort from Luke Byrne that put the icing on the cake when his strike also found the roof of the net. This was the final score of the game, and saw Towers win out 6-9 to 2-11. It was Towers midfielder Conor Fleming who opened the scoring for both sides when he turned sharply to point from 30 metres, and McGeever cancelled out a Scoil equaliser to move Towers two points to one ahead. Padraic Fitzpatrick then made two important blocks to prevent the visitors from finding the back of the net. An excellent point from half-back Cian Ryan was one of the scores of the half, and it preceded the first goal of the game from Thomas Galvin, when a ball
across the box found its way to him and he finished, soccer-style, by stroking the ball into the back of the net. Towers next score was another goal and, this time, Galvin was the provider, when his high back into the box found its way to Adam Clarke, who finished into the roof of the net from the edge of the square. This left Towers four points to the good and McGeever and Ryan again left their mark on this semi-final when they both pointed before half-time. Scoil reduced the deficit before half-time when they found the back of the net, and then scored two quick points to leave just a point in it at the break, 2-4 v 1-6. Within five minutes of the restart, the visitors were three points ahead, following an early point and a goal when Towers full-back
Jordan Walsh did well but could not prevent the breaking ball being finished to the back of the net. Aaron Whelan scored a superb point from out near the sideline, after excellent work by Stephen Bracken and David Delaney scored the first of his goals when a free he won and took from the halfforward line was only palmed to the roof of the net by the visiting keeper. Byrne and Delaney pointed again before Towers went on their late goal-scoring spree to secure a comprehensive victory. Round Tower: Dara Delaney, Darren Hanlon, Jordan Walsh, Ciaran Ryan, Adam C l a r ke , To m a s A n ke rs , Richard McGeever, Padraic Fitzpatrick, Conor Fleming, David Delaney, Aaron Whelan, Thomas Galvin, Luke Byrne, Stephen Gray, Stephen Bracken
WELL done and hard luck to our Feile camogie teams. The As reached the Division 1 final while the Bs played in Division 3.
Our next golf outing is in Castleknock on Saturday, June 9. Our nurseries for boys and girls born in 2005, 2006 and 2007 con-
Great championship win for our
tinue every Saturday at 1.30pm on
senior hurlers over Vincent’s last
our all-weather pitch at the 12th
Wednesday to ensure their place
Lock. Camogie nursery at 2.30pm
in the quarter-finals, which will
for girls aged six and over. This is
be played after Dublin’s run in this
your child’s chance to be coached
year’s All-Ireland championship.
by Dublin senior hurling captain,
Our junior A footballers are now through to championship semifinal. Great wins also for our U-8 footballer s a g ains t Thoma s Davis , Round Towers and Naomh Olaf. The sportsmanship of the Tow-
Johnny McCaffrey. Opening times for our club shop are Tuesday and Thursday from 7.30 to 8.30pm and Saturday from 10.30 to 11.30am. Please check our website for this week’s lotto numbers.
ers and Olafs players and mentors
Colette Condon’s team will be in
made them an absolute pleasure to
charge next Monday night when
host.
our sponsor will be Newcastle Golf
You can now register for our sum-
Centre.
mer camps on our website www.
A full list of next weekend’s fix-
lucansarsfields.ie. The cost this
tures are on our website www.
year is €55.
lucansarsfields.ie
ST PAT’S PALMERSTOWN CONGRATULATIONS to the U-14 cam-
between 7.30 and 8.30pm. All stands
ogie team, showing a fantastic display
€25, Hill €15, Juveniles €5
in reaching the Feile final. The U-14 footballers had a great win over Brigid’s.
Congratulations to our players from Gaelscoil Naomh Padraig who received first holy communion on Saturday.
Another great victory for the U-11
There are still a small number of
camogie team with a win against Liffey
tickets remaining for the race night,
Gaels to put them top of the league.
so contact mentors ASAP.
The senior hurlers were unlucky against Craobh Chiarain. The junior hurlers were unlucky against Whitehall. The U-13 footballers were unlucky against Ballinteer.
Finishing touches are being put in place for our new website that will be coming soon. Lotto numbers and results: First draw: Numbers drawn were 18, 19, 23 and 5. There was no winner. Second
Ticket for next Sunday’s Dublin
draw: Numbers drawn were 7, 11, 22
football v Louth can be collected this
and 5. There was no winner. Any three
Thursday, May 31 at the clubhouse
numbers: Five winners.
ALL OF YOUR CLONDALKIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31
FINAL FOR TOWERS: Under-16s reach last round of championship P31
MAY 31, 2012
KINGS OF DUBLIN: Leo and St Brigid’s teams are Dublin Stars P29
sport@gazettegroup.com
LIAM Rushe says Dublin will “certainly not underestimate” Laois when the capital’s hurlers seek to bounce back f r o m a d i s a p p o i n ting National Hurling League campaign. Laois certainly would have looked a soft touch when the pair were initially drawn together in the light of the Dubs 2011 NHL win and run to the All-Ireland SHC semi-final. But relegation in the league at the hands of Galway has made it look slightly less of a sure thing, even though Laois also were propping up Division 1B. The St Pat’s, Palmerstown All-Star said at the launch of the Opel’s Kit
for Clubs scheme last week that the Dubs will need to be wary of this tie. “ We certainly wouldn’t underestimate Laois. Two years ago, we ran out eight point winners or something like that but at half-time, we were up by a point or two and with ten minutes to go, we were only up by two as well. “We know the challenge they’ll put out. They’re doing the same underage work that we were and that we still are, so we cer tainly won’t underestimate them.”
Absentees Dublin will be without key man Ryan O’Dwyer for the tie on Sunday in Tullamore but Rushe
says that his side must keep showing a forceful side to their play if they are to prosper once more. “We play a full-blooded game, it’s a physical game. Silly, off the ball incidents and stuff like that, we need to cut out but we’re not going to hold back going into challenges. “You wouldn’t see Tomas O Se holding back, and he gets a few cards. I certainly wouldn’t encourage lads not to go in full-blooded into challenges. “If you lose a few — maybe somebody got hit in the chest or this or that — sure that’s life. That’s championship. You can always win the game with 14 men.” He is also hoping that
the continuing cruciate injury crisis which has regularly struck down the Dubs will come to an end soon, after Martin Quilty picked up a lengthy spell on the sidelines after Conal Keaney and Stephen Hiney were also laid low. “They are all so varied. T he three lads were different – I mean Keaney got knocked off his bike. “With Martin, both lads hit each other in mid-air. T hey came down, the other lad landed on his back and Martin landed on his feet and did his cruciate. “He was going to be pushing for a spot, it’s disappointing for the panel, and especially for him.”
Liam Rushe at the launch of Opel’s Kit for Clubs scheme
GazetteSPORT
Rushe eager for lash at Laois