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INSIDE: An Taoiseach is happy to meet local social innovators P10

June 9, 2011

REVERSING: Local delight as Dublin Bus changes plan on 68, 69 routes P2

It’s Moyle good: Enjoying school’s graduation day THERE was a welcoming smile

Round Towers: New era set to start at Monastery Road Page 32

from Gregg, Carla, Geraldine, Jake and Aaron Doyle when The Gazette called to Moyle Park recently, where there was a graduation ceremony for Sixth Year students. The school marked the important step by inviting family members along for the event, which highlighted some of the achievements of the students in a number of academic, sporting and personal fields during the year.

Picture: Peter Doyle

Full Gallery on Page 8

Boxing: Katie Taylor claims another European title Page 28

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Local jobless soars to eight-month high Govt is accused of not doing enough in crisis

Q PAUL HOSFORD

THE number of people unemployed in Clondalkin and Lucan has soared to an eightmonth high of more than 10,000, according to the latest figures released by the Central Statistics Office.

The figure, the highest since

September, 2010, was described this week by Sinn Fein’s Eoin O’Brion as deeply worrying, who said the “Government was not doing enough to tackle rising unemployment” in Dublin Mid West.

“Unemployment in Dublin Mid West has hit an eightmonth high of 10,181. Of

these, 2,000 are under the age of 25. The last time the Live Register in Clondalkin and Lucan passed the 10,000 mark was last September.

“Across the country, 14.8% of the labour force – a staggering 443,400 people – are now out of work,” he said.

Full Story on Page 3

2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9 June 2011

COURTS: EIGHT-YEAR SENTENCE FOR CANNABIS RESIN TRANSPORTER

TRANSPORT Decision on 68 and 69

Man was caught with nearly €2m drug haul A MAN has been given an eight-year jail sentence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for possession of nearly €2m worth of cannabis resin.

Stephen Grant (37), of Neilstown Avenue, Clondalkin, pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply at Celtic Truck Wash, Greenogue, Rathcoole, on September 1, 2009.

Judge Martin Nolan handed down an eightyear custodial sentence to Grant, who, he said, was involved in the transportation of the drugs.

He said he was taking Grant “as a man with no previous convictions”, as his other previous offences were minor.

“I must come to the conclusion he must have entered this with his eyes open,” said the judge, adding that it was a huge amount of drugs.

He said he would take into account Grant’s early plea, but noted that he was “a man well into his thirties, involved in a huge operation”, and the court still did not know why he did it.

Detective Garda John Dunning told Mr Tom O’ Connell SC, prosecuting, that a surveillance operation was carried out at Rathcoole, where a white van was seen going into Greenogue Industrial Estate.

He said gardai moved in on this van, which was being driven in front of another vehicle.

Det Gda Dunning said Grant and another man were at the rear of the van, and both men tried to run away.

He said a large quantity of cannabis, worth €1,976,244, was seized in the operation.

Grant was arrested

and, when questioned, he remained silent. He was asked if he owed money, but he replied: “Can’t say.”

Det Gda Dunning agreed that Grant’s role was probably not as the boss of the operation, saying: “He was probably under pressure.”

He agreed with Mr Padraig Dw yer SC, defending, that Grant has not come to garda attention since, and said he would be surprised if he got into further trouble.

Mr Dwyer said what happened was “totally out of character”, and that Grant did not realise there was going to be that amount of drugs in the operation.

He said Grant had problems with dr ug addiction, and had made “serious efforts to rehabilitate himself”.

Labour’s Robert Dowds was among those praising the retention of the 68 and 69 routes serving the city centre

LINKS: CITY CENTRE ROUTES TO STAY – DUBLIN BUS

Councillors welcome reversal of bus cuts Q PAUL HOSFORD clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL politicians have welcomed the news that Dublin Bus routes 68 and 69 will continue to provide Newcastle, Saggart and Rathcoole with public transport all the way into the centre of Dublin.

Labour TD Robert Dowds said that the decision would ensure services for those who needed it.

“These routes are critical for people who live at the western edge of Dublin, and, in many cases, are their only reasonable means of getting to work or college in the morning.

“They are also very important to people in Clondalkin as they allow people to get into the village to do their shopping, and to get into central Dublin quickly, along the Quality Bus Corridors.

“I would like to thank Dublin Bus for being responsive to local resi-

dents’ concerns about the proposals to terminate the routes at the Red Cow Luas stop.

“I congratulate the local people on the success of their campaign to keep the bus routes running all the way into town,” said Deputy Dowds.

People Before Profit councillor Gino Kenny said that the entire bus system was being set back, but this decision represented a victory.

“When Dublin Bus announced changes to the 68 and 69 bus in December, people in Rathcoole, Newcastle and Clondalkin were outraged about the changes, leaving them without a direct service to the city centre.

“More than 200 people attended meetings organised by myself and Rathcoole Community Council.

“Following the meetings, petitions were taken up, and thousands of signatures collected

opposing the cuts. There was also a protest held at Clondalkin Library, where Dublin Bus’s consultation was taking place,” he said. “[This week] I received an e-mail from Dublin Bus stating that: ‘Routes 68 and 69 will continue to link both Rathcoole and Newcastle to the city centre’.

“There will be changes to the routing of the 68 ‘as follows: Newcastle, Cherrywood, Ninth Lock, Clondalkin village, Monastery Road, Naas Road, Emmet Road, South Circular Road, Leonard’s Corner, Camden Street, South Great George’s Street and terminating at Hawkins Street’,” he said.

“The 69 will continue as is, though there will be ‘a revised timetable that will be more reliable’.

“This is a great victory for the people of Rathcoole, Newcastle and Clondalkin, who put pressure on Dublin

Bus through petitions, protests and individual objections.

“The good news also comes at the same time as a co-ordinated city-wide campaign is launched in an attempt to save bus services across the city.”

Cllr Kenny said: “This is a victory for peoplepower. It is great news for those in Rathcoole, Newcastle and Clondalkin who depend on the 68 and 69 services.

“The decision by Dublin Bus to keep the routes proves that, by getting organised and fighting back, we can win, and keep our services.

“We are not finished yet – the 210 is still being removed, and changes to the 51B/C will affect many people in the Clondalkin area.

“We will be protesting at 2pm outside the Civic Centre in Clondalkin on Saturday, June 11, in conjunction with protests in other areas,” said Cllr Kenny.

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9 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3

POLITICS 10,000 jobless in Dublin Mid-West

Jobs plan ‘not good enough’ Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

THE number of peopl e unemp l o yed i n Clondalkin and Lucan has soared to an eightmonth high of more than 10,000 people, according to the latest figures released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

The figure – the highest since September, 2010 – was described this week by Sinn Fein’s Eoin O’Brion as deeply worrying.

O’Brion said it was clear the “Government was not doing enough to tackle rising unemployment” in Dublin Mid West.

“Unemployment in Dublin Mid West has hit an eight-month high of 10,181. Of these, 2,000 are under the age of 25.

“The last time the Live Register in Clondalkin and Lucan passed the 10,000 mark was last September.

“Across the country, 14.8% of the labour force – a staggering 443,400 people – are now out of work. And, of course, this figure does not include those who were selfemployed and those who have emigrated,” he said.

O’Brion went on to say that the recent jobs plan from the Government simply didn’t go far enough.

FastNews

Gaelscoil holding a fun annual arts week GAELSCOIL Na Camoige primary school in Clondalkin village, are holding their third annual arts week from Monday, June 20 to Friday, June 25, finishing with a family day on Saturday, June 26.

This year, the school will have people from all backgrounds, including a Traveller with a traditional caravan, a tinsmith, an intercultural choir, an intergenerational day and a sign language teacher.

During the week, the school will have various activities, including visits to historical sites, parks and canals for photography and art, media studies, DJ workshops, model making, gardening and lots more.

Eoin O’Brion, Sinn Fein, criticised the Government’s jobs plan as not going far enough

“The Government’s anaemic jobs initiative launched last month will do little to address the growing problem of unemployment and longterm unemployment. It will only create a small number of short-term, part-time jobs.

“This is simply not good enough when set against the pre-election promises of both Government parties.

“Fine Gael promised an

investment of €7 billion to create 100,000 jobs.

“Labour promised a jobs fund of €500 million, and a Strategic Investment Bank with funds of €2 billion. “ Ye t , o n l y we e k s after taking office, they announced a jobs initiative that promised a meagre €29 million of expenditure on capital projects, and €11 million on additional training places,” he said.

O’Brion said that there was a pressing need for investment in job creation in the country.

“There is an urgent need for serious investment in job creation. The Government has access to monies in the National Pension Reserve Fund.

“The only way to get the economy back on track is to invest in a major job creation stimulus package using a portion of this fund,” he said.

Enough invite workers to an info meeting THE Enough Campaign group will host an information meeting in The Coldcut bar, beside Liffey Valley Fitness Centre, on Tuesday, June 14 at 8pm.

The main point of the meetings lies in the

question: “What does this EU/IMF deal mean for workers?”

The group hopes to protest against the abolition of extra pay for working on Sunday, the removal of protection for young workers under 18, and other issues affecting workers.

Similar information meetings are being held all around Dublin.

4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9 June 2011

COURTS: CLONDALKIN MAN TO BE SENTENCED

POLITICS Labour deputy settling into job

On life in the Dail: We have a lot to do Man had €34k cocaine haul – Dowds

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court

A MAN will be sentenced later for possessing more than €34,000-worth of cocaine in his girlfriend’s car.

Shane Fitzpatrick (24), of Neilstown Drive, Clondalkin, said he had agreed to pick up the cocaine for a third party to offset an €800 drug debt.

Fitzpatrick told gardai he had “tried to make a few quid, and made a bollox out of it”.

He pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possessing 495.9g of cocaine, worth €34,713, in his girlfriend’s Ford Focus car at Neilstown Drive, Clondalkin on August 20, 2010.

Garda Gavin Curran told Mr Cormac Quinn BL, prosecuting, that he got a call about a car acting suspiciously in the Neilstown Drive area, and attended the scene with a colleague.

He said Fitzpatrick, who was a front seat pas-

senger, became nervous and made no reply to questions.

Garda Curran said he searched the car and found the drugs cache in a bag in the front passenger seat.

Fitzpatrick said in interview that he had been bringing the drugs back to his house after picking them up in Blanchardstown, before he was caught.

Garda Curran agreed with Mr Cathal McGreal BL, defending, that his client had not come to garda attention since.

Mr McGreal submitted to Judge Desmond Hogan that his client was “shocked” to find himself before the court.

The judge acknowledged Fitzpatrick’s early guilty plea, and his strong family support.

He adjourned sentence in the matter until later this year, pending a probation and welfare service report.

Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

ROBERT Dowds is still getting used to his surroundings in the Dail.

The Clondalkin basedLabour TD, elected to represent Dublin Mid West in February, was one of a host of first-time TDs elected to the Dail in the election.

Given the need for nationwide reform, economic recovery, the pressures of the first 100 days in Government, finding a successor on South Dublin County Council and preparing for two high-profile visitors to the country, it is not surprising that the learning curve has been steep, but Deputy Dowds seems to be getting the hang of it.

Aware of the challenges faced by a backbencher, he knows he has to pick and choose his battles, and he has become more vocal in recent weeks, as he has

settled in from a bumpy beginning.

“When we first started out, it was difficult because there were so many new TDs. We had no offices, but things have gradually fallen into place.

“But, I have no illusions that it’s going to be very difficult, because of the financial situation the country is in.

“It means that there are a lot of things that we would like to do, that we will not be able to do.

“Getting money for things that you want done has become more and more difficult, and that can be very frustrating,” says Deputy Dowds.

For somebody elected to the Dail in their first General Election, the lustre of the House has not worn off, though the job is not without its challenges.

“It’s easier in the sense that I was a councillor for quite a big electoral ward, and I have two good staff in Nora [Casey] and Conan [O’Broin] so that helps quite a lot.

“In that sense, it is easier for me to go to meetings and be involved in things,” he says.

Given the appetite for parliamentary reform – something Deputy Dowds shares – the work of a TD has become somewhat under-appreciated.

“In some ways, it is [harder than people give it credit for], but the good thing is that you can take action on issues and make people aware of them.

“If you have particular

Labour Deputy Robert Dowds

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

‘I had asked a senior Labour official if I could attend Islandbridge, as my wife is English, and she wanted to see the Queen.

‘I also had two great-uncles die in World War I, and I thought it would be quite nice to be there.

‘They came back the next day, and said: No, you’re not going to Islandbridge – you’re being sent to the State dinner.’

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Deputy Robert Dowds

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hobby horses, you have to plan for them on a more long-term basis.

“I’m hoping that parliamentary reform will make it easier for TDs to do their jobs.

“I tried to make sure that we had as good a replacement on the council as possible [Breda Bonner] when I left, and that has helped a lot, locally,” he says.

Despite its challenges,

the job does come with perks – a State dinner with a certain British monarch being one. “ How t h a t w h o l e thing came about was quite funny. I had asked a senior Labour official if I could attend Islandbridge, as my wife is English, and she wanted to see the Queen.

“I also had two greatuncles die in World War I, and I thought it would

be quite nice to be there.

“They came back the next day, and said: ‘No, you’re not going to Islandbridge – you’re being sent to the State dinner’,” says Deputy Dowds.

As for his own personal hobby horses, he is planning to tackle two key issues in the Dail.

“The first is the whole issue of drugs and alcohol, and the other is local Government reform.

“It’s obvious why I picked the first one. The more you look at the problem, the more you have to look at alcohol, and the role it plays [in modern societal problems].

“I’d like to see a ban on advertising of alcohol, or a minimum pricing on alcohol.

“I believe in drink in its right place, but the problem is getting out of hand.

“I don’t believe that these will be delivered next week. We have a lot of work to do,” he says.

9 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5

6 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9 June 2011

SCHOOLS Some of the latest local education developments

Scholarship for local student Q NIAMH ELLIS

AISLING Doyle, a fifth-year student from Colaiste Bride, has been awarded a scholarship to study with United World Colleges (UWC).

This is a fantastic opportunity to study abroad in a highlyacclaimed college.

UWC is an education movement that aims to unite pupils, cultures and countries for peace and a maintainable future, and joins more than 130 countries in 13 colleges worldwide.

Aisling discovered UWC last May whilst staying with a Danish family on a

school exchange during Transition Year.

She applied for the opportunity in October by filling out an application form she got from the UWC website.

This included an essay, details of her education and two references.

Aisling then got shortlisted and went for two interviews, and also had to participate in group discussions and debates.

From the 13 students shortlisted, Aisling was chosen for the opportunity to study abroad.

She will join a college in Maastricht, in Holland, on September 1 for a two-year scholarship,

where she will complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma, which is a diploma recognised worldwide.

Subjects Aisling will be studying include English, French, environmental systems, science, biology, history and geography.

After her time in Holland, Aisling says she is interested in studying fashion or English.

“It’s an amazing opportunity to receive, and I’m so excited and honoured to be chosen,” she says.

All the students and staff of Colaiste Bride are delighted for her and wish her all the best in her new experiences.

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‘Colaiste Bride’s Glee club show was just one of a number of triumphs during the school year’

The Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald, is joined by artist, Cormac Cullinan; art teacher, Petrina Shortt, and students of Moyle Park College to officially open the school’s new Graffiti Wall mural

A brush with art GRAFFITI art took centre stage last week as the Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald, formally unveiled the Graffiti Wall mural in the junior yard at Moyle Park College.

The project, which took four months to complete with the help and advice of art teacher, Petrina Shortt, and artist, Cormac Cullinan, was completed by Transition Year students, together with second and third year

students.

Shortt outlined how the idea for the project began last August, with Transition Year students wanting to express the interests of their age group – music and sport – with the local Round Tower and Church in the background.

Cullinan said it was an inclusive project, as not only artists, but also students who could do technical drawing and stencils, were needed, with 40

people involved in total.

Minister Fitzgerald joked that it was her first time to formally unveil graffiti art as, usually, her office would receive complaints about it.

She commended the students for their work, and thanked Clondalkin Credit Union for its support, especially in these difficult times, with Credit Union representatives Adrian Mangan, Mick O’Conaill and Tony Foster on hand.

In welcoming the Minister, Moyle Park College principal, Aiden Clarke, spoke of the “previously negative image of graffiti art, but this mural captures the vitality of lunchtime activity in this, the students’ own space”.

He also praised the collaborative aspect of the project, with funding made available through NAPD Creative Engagement Project, and sponsored by the Credit Union.

‘Springboard’ initiative Excitement for the unveiled for jobseekers -----------------------

end-of-year awards

Q PAUL HOSFORD

Q TRANSITION YEARS

LOCAL Fine Gael TD Derek Keating has welcomed the announcement of new places on higher education programmes, while assuring locals who do obtain places that they will not lose benefits.

“As part of our Programme for Government, we have launched a new initiative, entitled Springboard, which will provide 6,000 new places on higher education programmes for unemployed people,” said Deputy Keating.

EVERY year, Colaiste Bride holds award ceremonies for every year group, with students awarded for their attitudes towards their subjects, schoolwork and their general behaviour in school.

The Transition Year awards were held on Wednesday last.

Awards were presented to students for their academic dedication and improvement, and awards were also given in subject areas such as home economics, art and PE. Heather McLoughlin was awarded Student of the Year for her

outstanding dedication and achievements throughout Transition Year.

On Friday, May 27, awards were held for all junior students, and fifth and sixth years.

Students were nominated for awards in academic achievement, dedication and improvement.

There was excitement at the fifth-year awards, as the head girl, and assistant head girls, were announced.

Head girl was named as Sadia Islam, while assistant head girls went to Lorna McGeever and Eimear Kavanagh.

It was the last awards’ ceremony for the sixth

years, while they were spending their last few weeks in Colaiste Bride.

Awards, such as the Principal’s Award, and the Presentation Award, were handed out to students who, throughout their five or six years in Colaiste Bride, showed initiative, respect and loyalty, and went to Niamh Gough and Shauna Fitzpatrick, respectively.

This year’s Sports Personality of the Year award went to Emma Donohue, who, for the past six years, has shown great leadership in her role on the school football and Gaelic team.

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

Initiative The initiative is targeted at those who were previously working but lost their jobs, or were made redundant, and who, with some up-skilling, could fill current or future job shortages.

“I congratulate Ministers Ruairi Quinn and Ciaran Cannon for leading this and I am delighted

that every effort is being made.

“You will recall, as part of our election commitment, that jobs would be our number one project,” he said.

Deputy Keating went on to say that the changing face of the Irish labour market means that new skills are needed.

Workforce “Ireland has a very talented workforce, but the loss of employment in traditional sectors, such as construction, manufacturing and retail, has meant that many of these qualified and experienced people are now out of work.

“At the same time, we know that there are skills shortages in certain areas. By providing retraining programmes, such as those offered through Springboard, we can match those vacancies with a newly re-skilled workforce,” he said.

The initiative is being backed with the establishment of a “one-

stop-shop” style website.

Deputy Keating said: “To make it easier to apply for these places, a single web application for all Springboard-related activities is being used – www.BlueBrick.ie.

“This website will operate as a kind of mini-CAO for the courses, but without the pressure of the points system.

“Springboard, which is managed by the Higher Education Authority, will allow those who undertake the courses to retain their benefits and, if they find a job, they will still be permitted and encouraged to finish their course,” he said.

A total of 34 institutions in both the public and private sector will offer programmes, ranging from Certificates in Digital Marketing and in Supply Chain Management, to Masters in Energy Management.

Further information on programmes is available at www.

BlueBrick.ie.

9 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 7

8 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9 June 2011

SCHOOLS Celebrating Sixth-Year graduation at Moyle Park

Liz, Gavin and Rob O’Brien

Gregg, Carla, Geraldine, Jake and Aaron Doyle. Pictures: Peter Doyle

Praising students’ drive and successes IXTH Year graduation was a special event for the Moyle Park school to celebrate, with students moving on from an important year.

To celebrate and commemorate the step, the school held its most important day of the school year recently,

S

where the graduating students were joined by their parents, family members and friends for enjoyable event, with live music provided by some of the school’s talented young musicians, as well as light snacks and refreshments to enjoy, keeping the celebratory mood going.

In addition to marking the graduations, an awards ceremony was also held, highlighting some of the many impressive steps undertaken and achieved by the students in a number of academic, sporting and personal fields, underscoring the school’s continuing commitment to excellence.

Naeem Malik

Adam McGrath, Luke Redmond, Eric Murphy, John Kearns and Dylan McCarthy provided great music on the day

Jean and Chris Haas

Father Kevin Doherty and Maurice Hartigan, deputy principal

Bernadeth Keyes takes a centre-seat with Evan, Holly, Emer and Tony Cahill

9 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9

POLICING Attacker’s description

Appeal follows park assault Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

GARDAI in Clondalkin are appealing to the public for information following an assault which occurred at Ballymount Park last week.

A t a p p r ox i m a t e l y 11:45am on Monday, May 30, a woman in her 20s was approached and assaulted by a lone man while out walking in the park. Following a struggle, the man escaped on foot in the direction of the M50.

The woman was taken by ambulance to Tallaght Hospital, where she was treated for her injuries.

She has since been discharged.

The scene was technically examined, and a number of statements have been taken by inves-

tigating Gardai.

The man is described as being approximately 30 years of age, of average height and build, with short, dark hair, and he was wearing a black leather jacket.

Gardai are appealing in particular to motorists travelling on the M50 between Junction 10, Ballymount, and Junction 9, Red Cow, between 10:30am and 12:30pm, and who may have noticed a male fitting the above description to contact them.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Clondalkin Garda Station at 01 666 7600, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any garda station.

At this point, Gardai say that they have no reports of any other

similar incidents in the Clondalkin area.

A Garda spokesperson said: “We are aware of rumours of other assaults on women in the Tallaght area that are currently circulating on social media platforms.

“We have no information to indicate that any of these assaults took place, or that any woman suffered the injuries reported. We are concerned that these rumours are causing unnecessary fear in the local community.

“Gardai continue to investigate and appeal for information on the serious incident which did take place in Ballymount Park. Advice and information on personal safety is also available on the Crime Prevention section of the Garda website,” said the spokesperson.

Raising the cup that cheers: Boys’ delight at clinching a recent hard-fought victory THEIR delight was perfectly understandable

when these young members of Knockmitten United gleefully raised their trophy after a hard fought win against local rivals, Esker Celtic in a recent match.

Ryan O’Leary, Darragh Fitzpatrick and

Aaron Kennedy took the chance to grab the trophy and cheer on their 2-1 victory, which they helped secure in the SDFL U-13 cup final, showing some of the sporting – and highly-competitive – spirit which keep their club going from strength to strength.

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

What water means to a community Q SEAN HAWKSHAW CEO Kleinwort Benson Investors

WATER is certainly in the news. The dry spring means that Dublin’s reservoirs are at dangerously low levels, and water charges are on the way.

These charges are a condition of the EU/IMF rescue deal, and the new government seems to accept that it has to be done.

The decision is wildly unpopular, but, apart from the money it will raise, it should reduce waste, averting Dublin’s predict-

ed water crisis.

As things stand today, plans are well advanced to pipe water to Dublin all the way from the Shannon, and the only alternative (apart from charges) may be to build a desalination plant somewhere on the coast that will convert salt sea water to fresh drinking water. Do Clondalkin residents really want a large chemical plant (for that’s what a desalination facility is) on their doorstep?

If you think about it at all, we tend to take water for granted, yet we certainly should not. All life depends on it. Without water, we could not live; agriculture would be impossible; industry couldn’t function.

And yet, while population growth, industrialisation, urbanisation and dietary change all place an ever-increasing demand on this one crucial, irreplaceable resource, the supply remains finite.

There is no more water available to us now than there was 10,000 years ago, and there may soon be less. In places, fresh water is threatened by pollution and global warming, in others it is becoming more inaccessible as underground aquifers are depleted and ground water levels fall. Less than 1% of the world’s total water content is considered available for human use on a regular basis.

Water is fast becoming

Water is a resource that is fast becoming more and more inaccessible

the most critical resource issue for humanity. And, with such stark consequences for a failure to address the issue, it is easy to see why governments around the world are introducing policies intended to secure adequate water supplies for their populations.

To provide enough water for all uses through 2030, industry analysts estimate that the world will need to invest as much as €1 trillion per year. The task is huge. But it has begun.

Leading companies around the world are developing and imple-

menting technologies to ensure water security.

Among them are firms working to increase supply through desalination and waste-water reclamation, and firms working to protect and ensure quality of that supply through filtration and the refurbishment of existing pipelines.

It is for this reason that Kleinwort Benson Investors launched its Water Strategy in October 2000.

It invests only in companies that derive a significant proportion of their revenue from water distribution, infrastructure

and technology. Since its launch in 2000, the Kleinwort Benson Investors Water Strategy has delivered nine out of 10 years added value above the MSCI World (a stock market index of over 6,000 world stocks).

This city is getting thirstier, and so is the world. An already severe imbalance between the supply and demand for fresh water can only become more acute.

Like the Dublin authorities, governments and local authorities around the world are seeking solutions, some urgently.

Recognising the potential crises that will develop if they don’t act now, many have committed to spending vast amounts of money to ensure water security in the decades to come. It is a global problem with implications for the whole of humanity. Smart companies will provide the answers and long-term investors, who are able to focus on those that are best placed to do so, will surely reap the rewards.

Past performance may not be a reliable guide to future performance and the value of investments may fall as well as rise. The views expressed in this document are expressions of opinion only and should not be construed as investment advice. Kleinwort Benson Investors Dublin Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

10 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9 June 2011

SOCIETY Social Innovators are honoured at Citywest

Notre Dame students Sarah Morris and Aoife Geraghty

Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton, enjoyed talking with Sister Stanislaus

An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, arriving at Citywest, where he was greeted by social innovator and charity worker, Sister Stanislaus Kennedy

Highlighting young citizens’ work for all AOISEACH Enda Kenny was the guest of honour at the tenth annual Young Social Innovators Showcase and Awards ceremony held at Citywest recently, where a number of local schools were among the 50 schools and Youthreach centres vying for the title of Young Social Innovators 2011.

He joined local Fine Gael deputy, and the Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald, for the ceremony, which saw

T

Ryan MacManus

Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald

a number of other politicians joining leading education, aid, inclusion and support agencies figures in attendance, all there to highlight the contribution to society and communities, both here and overseas, that our students and young people make.

Colaiste Bhride, Collinstown Park Community College and Moyle Park College were among those taking part, with each responsible for a number of impressive local initiatives.

Collinstown Park students Danielle Farrelly, Dylan O’Mara, Aimee Leeson and

Aaron Cahill and Alan

An Taoiseach was delighted to attend, and was keen to

Carly Ward. Pictures: Peter Doyle

Thomas

meet the social innovators

9 June 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 9 June 2011

SUPPORT: FUNDRAISER TO AID OPERATIONS

FASHION Hot summer collection for less

This is your chance to give a child a big smile THE FIRST ever Bumps, Babies and Buggies national fundraiser for Operation Smile will take place this June 17 and 18.

Would you like to catch up with friends, family and neighbours while giving a facially deformed child a smile which will change their world forever?

Bumps, Babies and Buggies, June 17 and 18, 2011 is a coffee morning with an important difference. It is an opportunity to meet friends, relax over a cup of coffee and talk the baby talk, and at the same time raising funds to support Operation Smile’s efforts to provide surgery for children with facial deformity in the developing world.

More than 200,000 children are born globally with a cleft lip and/ or palate facial deformity each year — often unable to eat, speak, socialise or smile. In Ireland, corrective surgery is easily available, but in many countries these vulnerable children are shunned and rejected. Without outside help, thousands of children with facial deformities worldwide will never have the medical care they need to live a normal life. It can take as little as 45 minutes and €240 to change a child’s life forever.

Operation Smile changes lives one smile at a time. Operation Smile Ireland is part of a global alliance of Operation Smile organisations working to serve children with facial deformity such as cleft lip and palate.

Free surgery Since 1982, Operation Smile has provided free surgery to more than 160,000 children around the world with the help of dedicated medical volunteers. With the help of mums and dads around Ireland, how many more

lives can be changed?

Paediatric dental surgeon, and mother of two young children, Dr Eleanor McGovern, is behind Bumps, Babies and Buggies and has worked with Operation Smile in countries such as Ecuador, Ethiopia, India, Kenya, Philippines and Russia.

J’aime La Vie Inserobe

Understand

According to Dr McGovern: ‘‘As parents, or expectant parents, we understand the importance of feeding our babies.

We appreciate the joy when our baby gives that first smile! How would we feel if our baby struggled with feeding because we could not access the care they needed? How would we feel if we knew our beautiful baby could have the surgery to make their face even more beautiful, but we could not afford it? Every infant born with a cleft lip or palate should have access to all the care they need, regardless of where they are born.”

Author Marisa Mackle, who helped launch the event commented: “Bumps Babies and Buggies is a great idea. It is easy to organise and a fantastic excuse for people to gather friends and neighbours together while raising money for a really worthwhile cause. Operation Smile’s volunteers change children’s lives and also save children’s lives.”

To get your Bumps, Babies and Buggies coffee morning hosting pack, please email Eleanor at eleanor@operationsmile. ie or call 01 667 6659.

All the funds raised will go to fund cleft lip/palate surgery for children in developing countries.

Monies can be sent by cheque, bank deposit or online payment. For further information on Operation Smile, you can visit www.operationsmile.ie

J’aime La Vie Penny Dress

J’aime La Vie Notti Dress

J’aime La Vie Oceana Dress

J’aime La Vie Rebecca Dress

Dun Laoghaire’s newest hotspot is Carraig Donn WHAT has a bright citrus dress, this season’s maxi, novel gift ideas and rocking jewellery got in common? The answer is the collection available in the new Carraig Donn branch in Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre.

The new store opened in recent weeks and is the talk of the town with the innovate, on- trend collections, just in time for summer.

Carraig Donn is Ireland’s leading lifestyle retailer, with 23 stores

nationwide showcasing irresistible fashion, jewellery and gifts collection all under one roof!

Carraig Donn champions a number of brands – their own label J’aime la Vie is seen alongside Vila, Vero Moda, Amari, Darling and Peruzzi, to usher in every trend and silhouette of the season. All brands have one thing in commonfantastic prices!

The Star Buy of the collection has to be the J’aime la Vie Notti dress,

retailing at only €69.

The Notti features one of this season’s hottest looks in crushed fabric.

The J’aime la Vie Penny dress is a close second as the season’s star buy, retailing at only €69.

Dresses Of course you will agree that the summer 2011 collection is a dream for dress lovers.

Carraig Donn caters for every need at a range of budgets, making you look fantastic for every

occasion. Knight and Day and Soul jewellery completes the look with both contemporary and funky pieces.

This winning formula extends to the gift and home departments where customers are met with clever, vibrant gift and home concepts again to suit any budget for every taste and occasion.

Summer 2011 promises to be a busy for Carraig Donn, with the company celebrating 40 years in retail, new stores

opening across the country and online shopping launching by the end of this month!

Register You can register your own details online at www.carraigdonn.com to get all the latest news, promos and huge discounts.

Carraig Donn is located in the Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre. For more information phone 01 2846121 Email info@ carraigdonn.com

9 June 2011 GAZETTE 13

now available in Carraig Donn branch in Dun Laoghaire

J’aime La Vie San Francisco Dress

J’aime La Vie Oceanna Maxi

J’aime La Vie Dress

14 GAZETTE 9 June 2011

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: WRITE “LIVE ANIMAL” ON BOTH SIDES OF THE CRATE

Your pet will benefit from the holiday experience if you carefully plan your trip

Prepare for a happy holiday with your pet chool is out, hailing the start of the summer holidays, and I want to remind pet parents to make every effort to ensure their pets – as well as their family - have a safe and happy experience when travelling to and from that holiday destination; whether it’s by road, sea, rail or air.

Remember, travelling can be very stressful for both you and your pet; I know, I’m one of those people who bring their dogs everywhere, and ,take it from me, poor holiday planning can literally be listed as grounds for divorce in our house!

However, with thoughtful preparation, you can ensure a safe, happy and comfortable experience for everyone.

S

Here’s a few top tips from a weary traveller.

•When you and hubby are excitedly discussing your travel plans and destinations, make sure you remember to get your pets involved. And no, I don’t mean sit down and ask them where they’d like to go!

•Take your pets to the vet to ensure they are upto-date on all vaccinations and that you have a supply of any medication they are currently taking.

•If you own dogs that will be in contact with other dogs, make sure they are vaccinated against kennel cough.

•Make sure your dog has basic training so that he will behave well during the trip.

•Obtain a clean certificate of health from your vet and make sure this is dated at least 14 days before your departure if travelling by air or sea.

•Ask your vet about any parasites, health risks, etc., to your animal that may be associated with your planned destination.

•Make sure your pet wears a collar and ID tag and is micro-chipped.

Make sure his details are up-to-date and clearly displayed.

For air/ferry travel:

The first time I took my dogs on a ferry and somebody callously described them as “cargo,” I nearly had a fit. However, this is how they are considered, and even if your dog is the most relaxed canine in the world, (a la our middle one, Belle), the cargo hold does not make for a pleasant travel experience.

If required, purchase an approved shipping crate – it should be large enough for your pet to comfortably stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. Write the words “live animal” clearly on at least two sides of the crate and use arrows to prominently indicate the upright position of the crate.

Always check ahead with your airline’s/ferry’s pet policies.

For car travel:

Plan the journey taking into account any rest stops and/or restaurants where you can safely eat with your pet.

In order to make the journey safe and secure,

a well-ventilated pet carrier/crate, large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around.

Alternatively a pet harness/safety belt should be attached. So, it’s up to you; you know your own pet, so you’ll know the best way to secure them.

Never, ever, leave your animal alone in a parked car. On a hot day, even with the windows open, a parked car can turn into a furnace and very quickly, in a matter of minutes, heatstroke can develop, causing death. In cold weather a car can turn into a fridge, holding in the cold, causing the animal to freeze to death.

Take along plenty of bottled drinking water from your own tap.

Drinking water they are not used to could cause the animal’s tummy to become upset.

Bring along a travel bag for your pet and include things like: •First aid kit •Clean towel •Fresh supply of water •Paper towels •Poo bags •Favourite blanket/ toys.

Remember to tr y and enjoy your holiday because one bad experience for both you and your pet can prompt you to say what I’ve said so many times: “Never again!’’

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

9 June 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

Find your holiday beauty essentials at Littlewoods

ANCY having top beauty brands at the touch of your fingertips? Littlewoods Ireland has just launched an extensive new online beauty store.

It stocks leading skincare brands such as Elizabeth Arden, Burts Bees, St Tropez and Fake Bake.

With products to suit all budgets, and a free four-day delivery service, updating your beauty regime is as simple as logging onto www.little woodsireland.ie Offers to check out include the Elizabeth Arden Intervene Holiday Set (€59), which contains 50ml Radi-

F

ance Boosting Moisture Cream SPF 15, 50ml 3 in 1 Cleanser Exfoliator Primer, 4.5ml Timefighting Radiance Serum and 7ml Peel & Reveal Revitalising Treatment with sponge, perfect face care staples for any trip abroad.

And perfect for all your travels this summer, we love this Mister Mascara Large Travel Bag, €10, with its handy decanting kit, there’s no chance of forgetting your bathroom essentials when travelling.

The containers comply with EU liquids in hand luggage regulations.

Moisturiser SPF 30 50ml, €17

Body Shop launches SPF 30 THE Body Shop has just launched its first SPF 30 product. This lightweight, easilyabsorbed daily moisturiser offers UVA/ UVB protection. Containing camu camu berry and moisturising Community Trade brazil nut oil, the Daily Moisturiser helps to revitalise the skin, leaving it soft, smooth and radiant.

Elizabeth Arden Intervene Holiday Set and the Mister Mascara large travel bag (inset)

Give your lips some TLC this summer with Voya IF YOUR lips are in need of some extra TLC during the summer months, then why not check out VOYA’s new Balmelicious Lip Balms, which contain a unique blend of organic seaweed extracts, vitamin E, as well as Soil Association certified oils of sweet almond, beeswax, wheat germ, candelilla and sunflower, all chosen for their repairing, hydrating and healing properties.

VOYA’s Balmelicious Lip Balms’ cell regenerating algae base formulations are packed with B vitamins and polysaccharides and work on contact to soften roughness, relieve dryness, stop flaking and prevent any further damage, leaving lips intensely moisturised and softened.

VOYA’s Balmelicious Lip Balms are available in two delicious flavours, zingy and zesty Lemon & Lime, and tingling, lip plumping Vanilla & Pep-

Vitamin C Daily

permint.

VOYA’s Balmelicious Lip Balms’ packaging is totally bio-degradable, too. Their outer casing is made with corn-starch and, when disposed of in the compost heap, will break down within just a few weeks, making these lip balms earth and lip friendly, too.

VOYA’s Balmelicious is set to become a firm handbag favourite this summer, to lips that are gorgeously soft and smooth. Your lips will adore VOYA’s Balmelicious!

VOYA p r o d u c t s can also be purchased online at www.voya.ie.

For stockists, call 071 9168956.

Vanilla Peppermint

Lemon Lime

16 GAZETTE 9 June 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day GAZETTE COMMENT

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Calling out for the people of 2011 DEAR EDITOR,

IT’S that time of year again when we once more make a special appeal to readers of the Gazette to think about who are the inspiring people in your community.

We here at the People of the Year Awards, which are organised by Rehab and sponsored by QUINN-healthcare, are searching for stories of achievement, success, bravery and heroism.

Who cannot have been moved by the courage of 2009 winner Steve Collins in his fight for justice following the murder of his son by gangland criminals in Limerick? Or have been stunned by 2010 winner Rio Hogarty’s selflessness in fostering 140 children over the past four decades?

However, we wouldn’t hear about these stories if it was not for the people of Ireland telling us about them.

That’s why we need to know of those citizens in your community who have done extraordinary things and who ought be considered for a People of the Year Award.

Amongst the categories this year are the Young Person of the Year Award (under 25 years), the International Person of the Year Award, the Best Friend of the Year Award, as well as

a number of other People of the Year Awards for achievements in the areas of community service, arts and culture, sports and public sector achievement, among others.

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

‘We need to know of those citizens who have done extraordinary things’

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To receive a nomination form, just phone 01 205 7260 or write to People of the Year Awards, Rehab, Roslyn Park, Sandymount, Dublin 4. You can also nominate online at www.peopleoftheyear.com or by email at poy@ quinn-healthcare.com. The closing date is Monday, June 20, 2011.

Then all that’s left to do is sit back and tune in to RTE One on Saturday September 10 and, who knows, the next winner of a People of the Year Award could be from Dublin.

Yours sincerely,

Don Delaney Head of Communications and Marketing Rehab Group Dublin 4

GazetteContacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251 Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com

General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com

Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com

Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com

News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com

Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com

Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com

Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com

Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Woodie’s Supergarden winner, Ken, picks up a bronze medal at this year’s Bloom festival Woodie’s DIY have continued their sponsorship of The RTE gardening series, Supergarden, and this year’s winner, Ken Byrne, brought his winning Supergarden to Bloom, picking up a bronze medal. Ray Colman, CEO of Woodie’s DIY, is pictured with his wife Dolores and Ken Byrne, winner of Supergarden.

It’s time to get a Taste of Dublin TASTE of Dublin, Ireland’s Premier Outdoor Food and Drink Festival, has 10 exciting new restaurants taking part in this year’s event.

A d d i t i o n s i n cl u d e P e a r l Brasserie, Mulberry Garden, Locks Brasserie, Bang, Cliff Town House, The Exchange Restaurant and many more.

At the Philadelphia Chef’s Theatre, the Ireland AM Taste Factor winner will showcase their winning culinary talent live on stage alongside Edward Hayden, while Kitchen Hero, Donal Skehan, will be demonstrating delicious good food recipes from his latest cookbook.

Also showcasing their culinary skills will be Conrad Gallagher, Gino D’Acampo, Rachel Allen, Neven Maguire, Atul Kochhar, Clodagh McKenna, Catherine Fulvio and Derry Clarke, to name but a few.

Brand new this year is the Taste Chef’s Table, in association with O’Briens Wines, hosted by restaurant reviewer Katy McGuinness.

Here, visitors will have a chance to put burning questions to the Taste chefs, ask the culinary experts everything from how to grow your own, how to host the perfect dinner party, and also discuss new business ideas in the foodie world.

DIARY All taking place in the stunning Iveagh Gardens, it promises to be an action-packed, fun-filled weekend.

Tickets for Taste of Dublin, which runs from June 9 to 12, are on sale, starting from €15, excluding booking fee, at www.tasteofdublin.ie or via the ticket line, 0818 30 00 30.

Bloom’s record 90,000 visitors A RECORD 90,000 visitors descended on the Phoenix Park for Bloom, Ireland’s answer to the Chelsea Flower Show, over the Bank Holiday Weekend.

Amongst those who attended the gardening, food and family festival, were the President of Ireland and Patron of Bloom, Mary Mc Aleese, and her husband, Senator Martin McAleese.

The President spent one hour at the event visiting the showgardens, meeting the designers and members of the public and later addressed a large crowd at the Chefs Summer Kitchen, part of the new Bord Bia Food Village. Celebrity Chef Neven

Maguire presented the President with a hamper of artisan produce from the Food Market.

The international judging panel commented that this year’s gardens were some of the best they had seen in the history of the event.

The overall large garden category award went to To The Waters Edge, a visually striking garden featuring a sunken seating area, designed by Oliver and Liat Schurmann, Mount Venus Nurseries, Dublin. Visitors to the show were encouraged to vote for their favourite garden with the People’s Choice award going to An Adventure with Thumbelina, designed by first-time Bloom designer Jack Harte, New Ross, Co.Wexford.

Thank you...

BEAUMONT Hospital would like to thank everybody who took part in the Flora Women’s Mini Marathon on Monday.

A spokesperson for the team said: “You have made a big difference to patient care at the hospital, especially to the Care of the Elderly programme.

“The impact that you made is warmly appreciated, look out for the details, which will be up on our website www.bhf.ie soon.”

9 June 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazetteGAMING GAMING Only one more Kinect sensor left to be won!

HE incredible Gazette Xbox Kinect sensor competition is drawing to a close as, this week, we give away the fourth and final of our terrific prizes.

K inect for Xbox 360 brings games and entertainment to life in extraordinary new ways, without using a controller

T

With Kinect, technology evaporates, letting the natural magic in all of us shine. Controllerfree gaming means fullbody play.

Kinect responds to how you move. So, if you have to kick, then kick. If you have to jump, then jump. You already know how to play.

All you have to do is get off the couch, “plug in� to

your Xbox 360 console, and jump in to experience game play.

Games Kinect Sports allows you to say goodbye to the buttons and controllers, and play six full sports games just as you always have, using your entire body.

Become the heavyweight champ of the liv-

ing room with boxing, or take to the sand with some high-flying beach volleyball action.

With soccer, field and track events, and even bowling, Kinect Sports has something for everyone.

Meanwhile, Kinect Adventures will have you jumping, dodging, and kicking your way

through 20 pulse-pounding adventures, set in exotic locations around the world.

K inect Adventures gets you to work with your friends and navigate through roaring rapids, challenge obstacle courses, and even save a leaky underwater laboratory.

The spirit of adventure awaits!

WIN A KINECT SENSOR AND TWO KINECT GAMES To be in with a chance to win a Kinect Sensor and two Kinect games, to use with your XBox 360 console, just answer the following question.

What kind of laboratory must be saved in Kinect Adventures?

Post your answer to Kinect Competition, Gazette Group Newspapers, Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan, Co Dublin.

Alternatively, you can email competition@gazettegroup.com.

All entries must be received before Wednesday, June 15.

18 GAZETTE 9 June 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS Hyundai is aiming RoadSigns Road Signs higher with new i40 A new, and more stylish Hyundai, is on the way for Ireland. MICHAEL MORONEY caught up with the car at Dealers, Cavanagh’s Women’s Mini-Marathon runners can win an Apple iPad, thanks to Fiat THE Flora Women’s Mini Marathon which took place over the weekend is a major fund raising event for many charities. Fiat Ireland as the official vehicle sponsor thinks that the rewards shouldn’t necessarily stop there.

That is why, in addition to giving a brand new Fiat 500 car away to one lucky participant on the day of the event, Fiat is also offering all minimarathon runners the chance to win an Apple iPad. In fact, Fiat is giving away a total of six iPads between June and December 2011 and, to enter, the only thing mini-marathon participants have to do is stick an I DID IT sticker on the back of their car and check the Fiat Ireland Facebook page once a month to see if they’ve won!

Best of all, the sticker also ensures that everyone is aware of the athletic prowess and kindheartedness of the person behind the wheel, so there are really no losers in this competition.

Are we getting too fat to fit into compact cars?

A RECENT published report noted that physically bigger Americans are not comfortable driving compact cars designed for the European market.

With our growing obesity problem in Ireland, I just wonder are we moving in the same direction?

I reckon that the growing weight problem in countries like Ireland is creating similar problems to those facing car designers in the US as weight problems create all sorts of headaches for the engineers who design small car interiors.

Hand- in- hand with this US President Obama wants to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign oil. He’s promised a one-third slash in oil imports by 2025. That means smaller cars and alternative fuels are going to be necessary.

And his wife, Michelle, is waging a war on childhood obesity. We need to do the same here because, when all of our kids grow up, they are going to have to fit into smaller cars, likely run on alternative fuels, and that’s whether they like it or not.

yundai have been keeping the arrival of the new i40 a bit of a secret from us motoring journalists and I don’t know why. The car is a reasonably big car replacement for the aging Sonata. It has much more style, even though it might feel a little tighter on the inside.

T he Hy undai did impress with great styling and solid feel, coupled with a thrifty 1.7-litre turbo-diesel engine under the bonnet. The car has a completely different driving feel to the Sonata.

The dash and front area comes in around the driver to give a solid look to the car. That would be my preference, but not everybody agrees.

Hyundai will be offering two engine options when the car hits Irish shores later this summer.

The entry model, like the one that I briefly drove, will come with a 1.7 -litre turbo-diesel engine.

And they don’t tell us what the acceleration pace is either, but I searched it out and found that it’s reasonable, but not the fastest in the

H

league.

What they do tell us is that the economy figures are good. They give us a figure of 23.2 km/litre (4.3l/100km), which is impressive for a car in this size category. These figures will be achieved with a sixth gear in the gearbox, allowing the car to cruise at low engine revs. That’s a sensible approach because it works in terms of the economy measures that make the car thrifty to own and to drive.

Economy

T his entr y model comes with a low 113g/ km of CO2, which is incredibly low for a diesel powered car in this size. That converts to very good economy and a low €104 annual road tax cost.

The new Hyundai i40 is loaded with features that would be extras in other mainline cars of a similar size. These include Stop/Start economy, airconditioning, nine airbags, reversing camera on the rear, plus modern looking LED headlights.

In fact there’s little on

The new Hyundai i40 is a cross between a saloon and not quite an estate

SPECS: HYUNDAI I40 1.7D Top speed: 180 km/hr

Road Tax Band: A (€104)

0 – 100km/hr: 10.3 seconds

Scrappage Eligible: Yes

Economy: 23.2 km/litre (4.3l/100km)

Warranty: 5 years

CO2 emissions: 113g/km

Entry Price: €25,750

the option list apart from colour.

But what impressed most when the car was unveiled at Cavanagh’s of Charleville, was the fact that it comes with a full-, size spare wheel.

From here the conversations moved to whispers of how owners of more prestigious brands had horror stories to tell regarding run-flat tyres and those annoying

tyre inflation kits. The message was good for Hyundai to offer something tangible; a real spare wheel that comes in handy around Charleville and many other areas of the country.

The car looks so well and has similarities to the Toyota Avensis Estate, but, fortunately, it’s more compact and tidy, and that’s proving to be needed as some of these

estate cars get beyond car parking spaces meagre dimensions.

The entry price for the Hyundai i40 will be in the region of €25,750 and that’s reasonable value given its economy, performance and high specifications level. This car will widen the net even further for Hyundai where the smaller cars, and Santa Fe, have been the trail blazers.

Mazda Skyactiv engines wins award MAZDA continues to win awards for developing fuel-saving, environmentally-friendly technologies for its cars. Two Mazda engineers were presented with the Outstanding Technical Paper award at the 61st annual Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan (JSAE) presentation.

Mazda took home three awards for research that will be used in Mazda’s next-generation Skyactiv vehicles, Mazda’s unique start-stop system, i-stop, and its single-nano technology catalyst, and for ground-breaking research into the properties of sound insulation material.

The Mazda designers analysed

the effects of different fuel components on ignition performance of an engine using homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI). This allowed them to predict auto-ignition timing for various grades of petrol from markets around the world. It also allowed them to demonstrate how engine knock can be

avoided when using a standard spark ignition system as well.

The award- winning work was used by Mazda to develop the new SKYACTIV-G engine which will employ the highest compression ratio (14.0:1) ever achieved in a petrol engine, while drastically lowering fuel consumption and emissions.

9 June 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 9 June 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY ATHBOY: ASKING PRICE OF ONLY €165,000

Now we’re cooking: B&Q’s range of barbecue equipment and furniture IT’S TIME to get grilling and take the kitchen outdoors. Yes, its barbeque time as the summer finally kicks into gear, and whatever your style, B&Q has a barbeque and accessories to fit your taste. With both varieties of barbecue on offer - charcoal, for a traditional barbeque with that authentic char-grill taste, with the Adelaide slimline family barbeque for €108 and the Samba trolley charcoal barbeque for €47.60, or gas, which is great for quick and easy outdoor cooking, with the Dakota two-burner gas barbeque for €59.75, and the Darwin three-burner gas flatbed barbeque for €175 - and a range of outdoor furniture - including the St Lucia rectangular table, parasol and six chairs for €182 - whatever your taste, B&Q has a barbeque and accesories to suit you.

Number 15, Priory Gate in Athboy is on the market with an asking price of €165,000

Priority in Priory Gate NUMBER 15, PRIORY Gate in Athboy, is being brought to the market

by Carty Estate Agents in Trim. This five-bedroom detached property is coming on sale for €165,000, and is perfectly positioned to the front of this modern and much-sought-after residential estate.

This fine family home, which extends to c1,900 sq ft, constructed to an exceptionally high standard, provides wellproportioned accommodation.

The accomodation comprises entrance hall with solid oak floor, guest bathroom, a sizable lounge with solid oak f loor, large bay window and a feature fireplace with cast-iron insert.

There is a reception room with bay windows, and the kitchen and dining area has a tiled floor, a fully-fitted kitchen and recessed lighting, as well as doors to the utility room and access to the garden and the patio. There is also a dining room with an oak floor.

Upstairs, the master bedroom is en suite and is carpeted, with a walk-

in wardrobe and bay windows. Of the other bedrooms, one is also en suite and has a builtin wardrobe, while all are carpeted and wellproportioned.

The family bathroom is upstairs and is fully tiled, with WC, WHB and bath, and features a window to the front of the property.

Priory Gate is served by oil-fired central heatind and has PVC double-glazed windows. It has a double-gated side entrance, with parking for two cars at the front of the property. The sale includes all the kitchen appliances.

Priory Gate is ideally located on the Delvin Road out of Athboy, just minutes’ stroll from all amenities and services this town has to offer.

Navan, which boasts a large shopping centre, is just 11 miles away and, for the commuter, Dublin City Centre is just 34 miles, easily accessible via an ever-improving road network, the new M3 and regular daily bus service.

For more information, contact Carty estate agents on 0469486860.

WESTMEATH: A FIVE-BED DETACHED PROPERTY FOR €295,000

Classy country life in Clonnagapple House C L O N N AGA PPL E Ho u s e , D e l v i n , C o Westmeath, a five-bedroom old-world stone detached house, has come to the market for the attractive price of €295,000.

In a tranquil setting, the property is located on the Collinstow n Road out of Devlin, and is c300 years old.

It originally belonged to Lord Greenville and is set on a c2.5-acre site with landscaped gardens.

This property offers a wonderful opportunity to run a small business from home as soil has never been fertilised and is ideal for organic gardening, or new owners could finish converting the stables to tourist accommodation. The property is in an ideal location with its close proximity to Lough

Clonagapple House in Westmeath, on the market for €295,000

Lene and Delvin Golf Course.

Accommodation The accommodation comprises entrance hall with tiled floor, lounge with feature fireplace and doors to the family room, which has an old stone fireplace with a stove and railway-

sleeper mantelpiece.

Also downstairs are the kitchen and a large bathroom. There is a sizable utility room and boiler house.

Upstairs are the five well-proportioned bedrooms in the property, with feature a variety of built-in wardrobes, wood panels in the ceil-

ing, carpets and timber flooring.

Also upstairs is the family bathroom.

Outside, the property is approached by a sweeping driveway, and is set on c2.5 acres with landscaped gardens.

T here are detached stone sheds, which were originally stables, which

have been partially converted.

The water is from a mains connection and the heating is from oilfired central heating.

The windows are double glazed.

For more information, contact Carty estate agents on 0469486860.

9 June 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Rachel Scanlon, Christine King and Aileen Healy, Castle Homecare

A helping hand from Castle Homecare CASTLE Homecare is putting the finishing touches to their new office in Ballinteer.

The company has been set up by three local ladies, Rachel Scanlon, Christine King and Aileen Healy.

Together they have numerous years of experience in the caring profession and know well the services required in their community. They are responding directly to the demands on many families for care for their parents/grandparents/the disabled and new mothers. The company helps people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the benefit of living independently in their homes and local communities.

Aileen recently joined the company from the HSE where she worked for 38 years. She spent 18 years in Ballinteer Health Centre followed by Care Co-Ordinator and Assistant to Manager of Services for Older Persons and Disabilities at the Local Health Office in Clonskeagh.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

SERIOUS ILLNESS COVER Q – I am being hounded by my bank to take out serious illness cover. I cannot see the value and don’t know the difference between this type of cover and income protection. Is it the same thing ? Gerry - Clonsilla A - I think you are being sold a product by your bank rather than have a real need accommodated. They should, of course, first tell you the benefits of taking out such a policy and then let you decide on the merits whether the benefits outweigh the cost of the financial commitment.

Serious Illness Cover or Critical Illness insures against contracting a major illness ( e.g. stroke, cancer, heart attack, MS ) and once confirmed, a lump sum is paid out to “tide you over” during the period of, hopefully, convalescence. The higher the lump sum, the bigger the monthly premium. Irish Life, Friends First and Aviva lead the insurance companies in this product.

Income protection, on the other hand, pays out

Aileen Healy, Rachel Scanlon and Christine King

75% ( less any social welfare entitlement ) of your annual income on a monthly basis should you be

Q&A

incapacitated – not restricted to an “illness”, but simply you cannot work. This continues to be paid

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

A: Honestly, a nurse and I’ve got the photos to prove it!

Q: What was your first job?

A: Picking strawberries in Fish-

A: Delegating is a huge part

A: From Edel to Rod.

of this job, as we work very closely with our carers, the families and also the health care professionals.

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: My daughter ,who’s in

ers Farm.

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Rugby.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: Not enough for the bus fare

Q: What sport can you play?

A: Kick-boxing.

home!

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: I’ve been 38 years in the health care sector.

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: The positive difference that we can make to someone’s life.

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

Australia.

Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update?

A: Thanks for all the birthday wishes.

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

A: Rod Stewart.

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: My mother’s Sunday roast,

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

A: Jedward, because of their

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

A: Neither.

positivity!

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad?

of course.

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: On planning holidays!

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: 30.

until your incapacitation ceases or your pension

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Arriving back into the

is that it is the ONLY type of insurance outside of

airport to find I’d left my car lights on.

taxpayer, for every euro you spend on an income

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Sailing around the Greek

tax. You also have to bear in mind income is your

Islands.

income.

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: I’m doing it right now.

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

A: Move to Kerry.

kicks in, whichever is the sooner.

However, the main benefit of income protection non-assignable pension life cover that attracts tax relief at your marginal rate. So, if you are a 41% protection policy, you receive 41 cents back in number one asset,and especially if you are the only breadwinner in your family, you should insure that

Whatever you do, Gerry, don’t be sold a product.

Look for independent professional advice.

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

Employes should be protected and their rights must be observed NOREEN MAGUIRE Maguire Muldoon Solicitors

WE are all acutely aware of how difficult employers are finding things during these turbulent times.

Solicitors are often consulted when problems with staff arise.

Employers think they cannot dismiss an employee who is on certified sick leave. Lack of capability to carry out terms and conditions

of a contract of employment are grounds for dismissal.

The employer needs to gather as many facts about the employee’s condition as possible and the employee must be given fair notice that the possibility of dismissal for incapacity is on the table.

The employee should be allowed an opportunity to influence the employer’s decision by providing relevant evidence where necessary.

The employer needs independent medical advice. However, the decision to terminate is not a decision to be made by a doctor, but one to be made by management while taking that advice into consideration.

Remember, there is a very broad interpretation of the term “disability” and should the illness be considered a disability under employment equality legislation, the employee is protected and their rights must be observed

under that legislation.

In general, the employer needs to consider the length of service, type of job, working environment and what is required of the employee.

The employer must look at what facilities could be made available that would allow the employee work as normal. The Equality Acts state the cost of such special treatment or facilities should be considered.

Where the employers are able to

make alternative arrangements or, indeed, can tolerate high levels of absence, they must try to do so. It would be very difficult to defend a claim where the employer failed in their duty to reasonably accommodate an employee.

Each employer will have a different set of facts to consider, but should remember they must be able to show the dismissal was necessary and for good reasons.

22 GAZETTE 9 June 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Newcastle renewed is vibrant for visitors

NORTH-EAST ENGLAND: VISITING A 21ST-CENTURY CITY

The picturesque town of Sorrento, Italy

Relax and unwind in the romantic surroundings in two of Italy’s top destinations - Rome and Sorrento

ROME and Sorrento are two of the most romantic and stunning settings in Europe, and Joe Walsh Tours are offering tourists a chance to experience both destinations this September. Check out the famous buildings and landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Vatican and St Peter’s Basilica on an exclusive escorted tour as well as lesser spotted Rome and its secret hotspots.

For the second half of the trip, holiday-makers can unwind in the stunning surrounds of Sorrento.

There are a few options available for the final two days in Sorrento, relax and unwind in the stunning resort, or travel to the amazing Amalfi Coast or Capri.

Flights depart on September 11 and include a direct flight from Dublin to Naples with Aer Lingus, transfer on arrival from the airport to your hotel in Rome, three nights accommodation in the centrally-located three-star Hotel Milani in Rome, on a bed and breakfast basis, luxury coach transfer from Rome to the hotel in Sorrento, four nights accommodation in the four-star Hotel Conca Park in Sorrento, on a half-board basis, direct flight from Naples to Dublin and luxury air-conditioned coach for all transfers and tours.

Joe Walsh Tours offer this escorted tour of Rome and Sorrento for just €799.

For further information, call Joe Walsh Tours on 01-2410800 or visit www.joewalshtours.ie.

ROB HEIGH

IN the last 15 or so years since I was last in the north-east, Newcastle has undergone something of a dramatic regeneration.

In the interventing years, what was once a slightly grey industrial town has turned into a vibrant, culture-embracing 21st-century city with a great deal to offer the traveller looking something special from a weekend break.

Part of that resurgence has come on the back of the Newcastle Gateshead Initiative’s Culture 10 programme, which was put in place to rejuvenate and reinvent the city as an inspiring and vibrant attraction for visitors and locals alike.

The programme this year celebrated its anniversary with the announcement of an array of events that will appeal to everyone with even a passing interest in the arts, food, dance and theatre.

Newcastle is not the only story, as the city, on the northern side of the Tyne river, is paired with their southern neighbours, Gateshead.

The ties between the areas are stronger than ever, with the addition of the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, which spans the Tyne and creates a link to the Baltic Art Gallery and the Sage Gateshead Centre, a huge and hugely impressive music venue, designed by acclaimed architect, Norman Foster.

One can easily walk through the town and, as you do so, through the significant moments in British history.

From the Roman settlement of Pons Aelius to the new castle of it’s name, built by William the Conqueror’s son in 1080, through the landmarks of the industrial revolution built by Robert Stephenson, to the impressive, new-age development at the Quayside, you can

literally turn a corner in Newcastle and be transported forward or back in time by hundreds of years.

With an artisan approach and a commitment from the Newcastle Gateshead Initiative to make the area a great tourist destination, the city embraced a musical celebration weekend, with the fifth running of the Evolution Music Festival.

Drawing some of the best of new and established talent to Newcastle at the start of “festival season”, Evolution is a metaphor for the rebirth of the city. It takes the best of the old and the new and presents it in familiar surroundings with a fresh approach.

There were performances from the legendary Iggy Pop and the Stooges, and the current darling of the dance scene, Katy B, performed in front of the Baltic gallery.

In between acts, I was

The world -famous Colosseum in Rome

St Peter’s Basilica in

The stunning views in

Rome

Sorrento The impressive views from the top of the St James’s Park soccer stadium

able to succumb to a welldeveloped hunger and thirst at The Broad Chare, a new gastropub recently opened by acclaimed local chef, Terry Laybourne.

It is already getting a reputation for its quality fare and exclusively brewed real ales, and rightly so. My starter of mussels in cider and thyme was delicious, and the main of blood pudding and apple was exquisite, as was everything that I saw served up around me in the Chare’s cosy setting. Washed down with a pint of Wayland’s Gold Tankard ale, I was more than set to head back out into the crowds, and take in the atmosphere of the festival.

Newcastle is also renowned for its love of soccer, and no trip would be complete for the Sports Editor to the home of Newcastle United. A really informative and enlightening tour of St James’s Park gave another view on the city. Not

Cafe culture and arts

only was it a salute to the famous sons of the club – Jackie Milburn, Alan Shearer, and Bobby Robson, among others – but it also showed how the city is bound together by community and hard work.

A walk through the town centre brought me to another success story in the redevelopment of Newcastle, the Ouseburn area, which houses art galleries, studios, museums and pubs and restaurants that draw in the diverse strands of the new Newcastle.

I was lucky enough to spend some time in the Seven Stories museum, a fabulous archive of artwork, illustrations and manuscripts of children’s books that include works by some of the best-known and best-loved artists and writers of several generations, including Judith Kerr, Enid Blyton and Philip Pullman. There are readings and events at the Seven Stories throughout the summer and, even if there is not an event on the day of your visit, it is still a fascinating trip through a heritage of children’s literature – even if you are not accompanied

9 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs

The ESPA relaxation area at the g Hotel in Galway

Time to pamper your dad with a special spa package at the ESPA Spa in the g Hotel in Galway aplenty make up the landscape of the Quayside in Newcastle Gateshead

by a child, you can let your inner child run free!

From the Seven Stories, it was a short stroll to The Cluny, another acclaimed venue for live music with a reputation for great food as well. It didn’t disappoint on that score, and their Sunday lunch of lamb with garlic, Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings was another feast on a plate, again accompanied by another locally brewed real ale, showing that the brewing tradition in the area is alive and well, in spite of the famous Scottish and Newcastle brewery relocating out of the city.

Boisterous

Sunday saw possible even more revellers present across the quays at the Evolution festival, as the arguably more established and well-known acts graced the Ballast Mill stage – Example, Tinie Tempah and Plan B brought their fresh hip-hop, dance and soul sounds to the masses, and the masses responded with an even more boisterous reception than Saturday’s acts had enjoyed.

Meanwhile, I took in the acts at the Baltic stage, with DJ and producer Sub Focus unleashing new tracks on the crowd, and Canada’s best-kept secret, Caribou, bringing their dark and complex sounds to a very appreciative audience, and putting on arguably the best performance of the weekend.

The success of the festival bodes well for the rest of the summer, and there are a wide array of events taking place thoughout the rest of the year to attract visitors.

These include the EAT food and drink festival, which runs from June 17 to 26, which includes a street-food festival, and the ¡VAMOS! festival, which runs until July 10, which features LatinAmerican music, food and film.

All in all, there are a host of events to keep the interested traveller exercised and energised throughout the summer, and Newcastle Gateshead is certainly somewhere to put on the map as a future destination – I for one will certainly be going back.

For more, see www. newcastlegateshead.com

Canada’s finest export, Caribou, light up the stage at the Baltic art gallery as part of the Evolution festival

WHEN it comes to being pampered, dad’s can sometimes be overlooked but I defy any man to not enjoy a facial or several other beauty treatments on offer to men. As Father’s Day is fast approaching, we have sought out the best pamper treatment on offer for daddy dearest.

The ESPA at the five-star g Hotel in Galway, is offering a Gentleman Unwind Trio package, which includes a thermal suite heat experience; deep-cleansing back exfoliation; muscle-relaxing back massage; tensionrelieving oriental scalp massage and a refreshing ‘Health Shot’ in its relaxation area, all costing €90.

Overnight rates are available and, for further details, visit www.thegho tel.ie, email info@theghotel.ie or call 091 865200.

Give your dad the The James Bond Feelgood Factor at No.1 Pery Square Hotel and Spa in Limerick FOR dads who like to think of themselves as a bit suave, there is the James Bond Experience at No.1 Pery Square Hotel and Spa in Limerick.

The James Bond Feelgood Factor is a bespoke male therapy with a King of Spades Spa Hot Towel Shave, using the official Geo Trumper James Bond shaving techniques and products. Then enjoy a muscle-melting Hot Oil Back Massage and the unique Solace Sound wave experience, leaving dad revitalised, but not shaken or stirred from €110 per pop.

Make it an overnight stay in a luxurious guestroom, with full a la carte breakfast and James Bond Feelgood Factor from €245 per person. For further details, call 061 402 414 or visit www.oneperysquare.com.

A weekend of modern fly-fishing and spinning techniques at the Longueville House in Cork

The Central Mall, illustrating the VIctorian influence on the landscape of Newcastle

FOR something a little more traditional, Longueville House is offering residential fly-fishing courses. This three-night/two-day course is based at Longueville House in Cork, and is designed for up to six participants under tuition. All aspects of modern fly-fishing and spinning techniques are covered, but emphasis is placed on as much practical fishing as possible.

The course is spread over two days and three nights, starting with dinner at Longueville House on the first night and finishing up after breakfast two days later. Prices start at €990 per person sharing in Junior Suite or €815 per person sharing in a standard room. For more details, go to www. longuevillehouse.ie.

24 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9 June 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT THE HELIX 01 700 7000 Fireworks

A WIDE range of dancers from the Sarah Moloney Stage School will present Fireworks; an eclectic show that promises an explosive mix of vibrant styles. Fireworks will showcase some of the many reasons that have put the school firmly on the map for dance students and fans alike, with this a show not to be missed. With tickets priced at €20/15, there are two dance shows to choose from, at 3pm or 8pm, on Saturday, June 11.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Tarry Flynn

THE life of a 1930s’ Cavan farmer, poet and dreamer is currently being brought to vibrant life in a celebratory fifth anniversary show at The Mill, which is marking its birthday in style with this superb production. There’s something for everyone in this production, with this tale of a simple man with a complex heart from a bygone era having much to enjoy for audiences today. The production runs until Saturday, June 18, with admission at €18, €15.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 The Parting Glass

WITH memories of French Striker, Thierry Henry’s handball incident during Ireland’s late 2009 qualifier for the World Cup still a painful memory for many football fans, there’s no doubt that many will relate to the feelings of Eoin, an everyman football fan who also uses that sleight of hand incident as a means to reflect on his life, the Celtic Tiger, Ireland’s recent history and more. Catch this great show at 8pm on Friday, June 10 and Saturday, June 11, with admission priced from €12 to €17. Please note that there will be an after-show reading on Friday, June 10 by author, Dermot Bolger and Ray Yeats.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 The Ballet Ruse

THE beautiful world of ballet may be sent spinning – or pirouetting – by two budding ballerinas, who go from bar to barre in a bid to fulfil their dreams. Lady GaGa rubs shoulders with Tchaikovsky in a show that’s not afraid to step up to the mark to present wonderful, imaginative dancing with a twist. The Ballet Ruse plays at 8pm on Thursday, June 9, at 8pm, with admission priced at €12/€10 conc.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 The Picture of Dorian Gray

ONE of Oscar Wilde’s greatest tales is brought to life in a memorable staging by Wonderland Productions.

Adapted by Alice Coghlan, the decadent tale of Victorian socialite Dorian Gray will captivate audiences – who may not, however, wish to see a mysterious painting, hidden away ... With a price that includes afternoon tea, the production will be staged in the Betelnut Cafe at 3pm on Sunday, June 12, with tickets priced at €30/€25 conc.

Juliet Turner OFTEN describes as having a wry charm in addition to her beautiful voice, Julet Turner (below) needs very little introduction for her loyal fans, having delighted audiences around the country for years with her wonderful songs and anecdotes, all of which make her one to watch. Hear Juliette on Saturday, June 11 at 8pm, with tickets priced at €18/€14 conc.

Once again relying on the help of his friends, the Furious Five, Po (Jack Black) must use his unlikely but impressive martial arts skills to help right wrongs in the world – in this case, standing up to a tyrant and his deadly new weapon, threatening ancient China

Far from bamboozled Eats, shoots and leaves ... this powerhouse panda takes aim at the top of the charts with an enjoyable sequel ...

Q KATE CROWLEY

OH BOY, oh boy, oh boy.

It’s almost time for Mel Gibson’s The Beaver to be released here; a film which has seen critics sharpening their tongues with gusto around the world.

This, in itself, probably means very little. After all, fellow film film critics have been united in hating The Hangover 2 – however, audiences seem to love it, as it turned in one of the highest-grossing weekend openers ever. (Beat that, Beaver.)

What’s a stunning, if slightly mature, gal gonna do?

Why, pick a fun family film to review, of course; something that can also throw a few fancy moves around at our cinemas, yet without earning the ire of reviewers or audiences alike.

(And, no, I don’t mean Honey 2, for those wishing to see beefcakes and

FILM OF THE WEEK: King Fu Panda 2 ++++ (PG) 90 mins Director: Jennifer Yuh Starring: Jack Black, Jackie Chan, Angelina Jolie, Gary Oldman, Dustin Hoffman, Michelle Yeoh, err, Jean Claude Van Damme

OUR VERDICT: PROVING, perhaps, that it’s what’s inside that counts, and that even fat pandas – or slightly fuller-of-figure film critics – can have amazing skills, this film ... err ... doesn’t sound very different with its “message” from the first film. However, there’s plenty to enjoy, but its frequent battle scenes (and a background panda genocide storyline Pandocide?) rule it out for the very young, as its PG rating shows.

babes hoofing and huffing around on a screen.)

I don’t know if pandas have hooves, but, even if they do, it’s not the most pressing of issues, perhaps for Kung Fu Panda 2; the somewhat inevitable sequel to the animated film from a few years ago, to need to consider.

Arriving slightly tardily in cinemas – which is fair enough, as pandas are generally not the fastest of creatures – it sees a return for Po (Jack Black) and the Furious Five martial arts masters, all by now living quietly in the Valley of Peace in

ancient China, under the watchful guise of Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman).

However, the film soon makes it clear that Lord Shen (Gary Oldman), ruler of the Peacock Clan, is up to all kinds of mischief, primarily thanks to his deadly new weapon.

Shen’s foes soon learn that a cannon, and gunpowder, are a match for even the finest martial arts clans in China, with the would-be preening tyrant blasting away any and all opposition.

Pudgy Po, and friends, learn of this rising threat, and, in finest road-warrior

tradition, are sent to stop Shen, and restore the balance of peace to China.

However, r unning through the film is Po’s quest for identity, seeing as he knows that he was found as a baby and raised by strangers – you don’t see many geese raising pandas, after all, even in ancient China.

Who are his real parents? Where are they?

Why has he been having flashbacks when he sees mysterious symbols on the bad guys’ armour?

And what’s for dinner?

All these, and many more questions, are to be answered on Po’s road to enlightenment, which seems to lead past one fight sequence after another ... and another ... and another ... and ...

Eventually, with an element of his inner peace restored, Po must stop Shen, rescue his friends from trouble, and save China.

Yup, that’s all, folks.

Well, if you’ve seen the first film, you won’t be disappointed with the sequel, which, once again, looks marvellous.

Western audiences are largely unfamiliar with ancient Chinese legends, history or settings, yet there’s still a recognisable “look” for what is expected from such a film, and, boy, does this Panda deliver. (No jokes about Chinese deliveries, please.)

Given Dreamworks’ tendency to milk its hits dry (as the increasingly mirth-free Shrek series demonstrates), you could be forgiven for having concerns about this sequel.

However, Kung Fu Panda 2 hits all the right marks, with some superb animation, outstanding design, and an engaging enough plot.

So, sorry Mel – when it comes to landing knockout blows at the cinema, this Panda’s got that Beaver licked ...

9 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25

Tech cashes in on money usage ADAM MAGUIRE

IN THE past few weeks, two big announcements – one from Google, and one from Orange in Britain – have seen the idea of the mobile wallet hit the headlines.

Here is a quick guide to how it will work, and what the advantages are.

A small number of mobile phones are now coming out with what’s called a “near field communications” (NFC) chip built in.

Basically, this is a tiny antenna that allows the device to be recognised by base-stations when put close to them – just like many office swipe cards, nowadays.

What that has to do with money Once you combine a

replacement for low-cost transactions that, normally, would not be done via a card.

In other words, this will aim to replace the change in your pocket.

NFC chip with all of the information stored on your phone, you can do all sorts of things.

The idea of the mobile wallet is that you can link your phone to your bank account, or credit card, and then pay for things through using it, without having to carry an actual wallet.

The benefits If you just have to tap your phone off of a shop’s till to pay for your products, it will make the process far faster and easier.

The prevailing theory is that this will become a

The risks Of course, there are issues around how secure this is – after all, if you can do too much with your phone, then others can really cause havoc if they get their hands on it.

To counter this, most mobile wallet proposals limit the transactions you can do to small amounts – of course, there is no reason why a PIN number, or other security details, would not also be required with a NFC transaction.

When to expect it The short answer is –

no time too soon. Firstly, there needs to be enough phones out there using NFC technology to make it viable; at present, there are only a handful.

Then, banks need to get on board and create applications that allow these phones to link with your financial accounts.

Finally, shops need to install NFC-capable terminals to cater for the devices.

All of this is going to take a few years, at least.

Otterbox iPad 2 Defender Case Designed as a sturdy piece of kit to help keep your iPad 2 secure, the Otterbox Defender case delivers; though the device’s design makes it hard to truly do so.

The rise of the smartphone – and, latterly, the

tablet – has created a million-euro market in accessories.

All manner of cases, bags and pouches are out there for the various products coming from Apple and, as a result, all of them struggle to offer something unique.

H o w e v e r, the Defender case does manage that.

While others focus on ease of use and comfort, the point here is to make your fragile technology more robust, even if it is at the expense of style.

The case is not particularly easy to put on – it comes in layers of plastic and rubber – but it definitely adds a decent layer

of protection, once in place.

Sadly, it is unable to boast water proofing, or the like, largely due to the iPad 2’s design, but it will stand to you in the event of a minor knock, spill or fall.

Otterbox will probably try to sell this as a meth-

od for those looking to take their iPad 2 into the wild.

Frankly, e ve n w i t h the case in place, that still seems a bit of a stretch.

However, the case would be very useful for far more practical reasons; making your shiny new toy as close to baby-proof as you can get.

The Otterbox iPad 2 Defender Case is available on iBazaar.ie for €70, plus P&P. Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

GAZETTE

26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9 June 2011

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9 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

LONDON CALLING: Sinead McCarthy on Ireland’s Olympic hockey destiny: Page 29

SOCCER: UNHCR AND SARI HOSTING ANNUAL REFUGEE FAIR PLAY CUP IN DUBLIN 7

Do 1 Thing this month and support soccer sport@gazettegroup.com

THE UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Office in Ireland and Sport Against Racism Ireland (SARI) are encouraging Dubliners to Do 1 Thing to support refugees this World Refugee Day, Saturday, June 18, by coming to the second annual Fair Play Football Cup in the Law Society gardens at Blackhall Place.

The Fair Play Cup coin-

cides with the 60th anniversary of the UN Convention Relating to Refugees, and is a competitive soccer tournament featuring teams drawn from refugee and community groups, Government agencies and members of the media to celebrate the contribution of refugees in sport throughout Irish communities.

Players from a host of different countries, including Angola, South Africa, the Democratic

Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe and Ireland will compete in the seven-aside men’s and women’s tournament.

Other entertainment at the free event includes football skills training provided by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) , face-painting, music and much more for the whole family.

Hot Press, winners of the 2010 inaugural tournament, will again face tough opposition against

Hailuu Netsiyanwa of Insaka FC in action against KarenGroup, members of the Myanmar resettled refugees

last year’s beaten finalists SARI/INSAKA, the Department of Justice teams and Newstalk’s Off the Ball team led by presenter Eoin McDevitt, the show’s anchor man who will also MC the event.

Sophie Magennis,

Head of Office, UNHCR Ireland said: “Despite refugees’ often dire circumstances in very challenging environments, UNHCR has seen how sport can play a key role in helping to build tolerance, understanding and

respect among different communities, setting aside cultural differences and giving young people a sense of self worth.”

Perry Ogden chair of SARI said: “The sporting world, in particular football, has played a signifi-

cant role in the promotion of human rights and integration.”

The Fair Play Football Cup takes place on June 18 at the Law Society Pitch, Blackhall Place, Dublin 7, from 10.30am until 2.30pm.

28 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport Boxing

FastSPORT FastRugby

BOXING: KATIE STILL ON TRACK FOR OLYMPIC QUALIFICATION

All-Ireland title for Lucan Boxing Club LUCAN boxing club were celebrating just their second All-Ireland title since the 1980s when Charmaine Reilly proved her worth as the U-11 57kg champion recently.

After claiming the Dublin title in early May, with no opponent coming forward to take her on at national level, she was deemed to be Irish champion. But she subsequently took on Brosna’s Rachel Daly, a fellow national champion in an adjacent weight division, at the Lucan-hosted multi-counties event, held in the Ringside club in the National Stadium.

Reilly came through that test with flying colours in the biggest tournament outside the nationals to show herself more than worthy.

She becomes the club’s first female national champion following Lucan’s re-birth a couple of years ago since they began opening their doors to women.

And she could yet become their first international in the coming years as Ireland has international teams at the higher age groups.

It follows Carl Maher’s recent success on the national stage as the club continues to rise following a wait going back to the 1980s for their previous title at this level.

Reilly, along with two clubmates, were also recipients of equipment from Dublin City Council following their recent achievements and were invited to participate in a showcase of female boxing on Tuesday night in the Westside club in Tallaght.

It caps a bumper year for the club, which saw them notch up ten Dublin titles, while Claudiu Munteanu and Aaron McGrane were called into a Dublin panel to face London in a challenge series. Lucan are the only club to have two representatives on that team.

Katie Taylor with Pat Hickey, President Olympic Council of Ireland and Roisin Donnelly, Marketing Director, P&G UK and Ireland, after the announcement that Katie would be P&G’s Ambassador for Ireland

Taylor’s Euro triumph sport@gazettegroup.com

KATIE Taylor claimed a fourth successive European Union title last Saturday in Katowice when she completely outclassed Poland’s Karolina Graczyk.

The 25-9 victory helped the Peamount United club member r un up yet another boxer- of-the-tournament award on a fruitful weekend for the Irish as Lauragh O’Neill and Laoise Traynor took bronze medals.

It was an 11th major honour in the past six years for Taylor who sped into a 5-1 lead, extended the advantage

to 10-3 after round two and was all but home and hosed on 17-6 at the end of the third to underpin a fine success.

Speaking about the event, she said her performance hit all the right notes.

“I was very pleased with my performance in the final. It got easier as it went along and I would like to thank my coaches who got the tactics spot-on,” she said.

“Friday’s semi-final and Saturday’s final were two different fights and I was very pleased with my performances in both, particularly the final. I thought I boxed

the perfect fight in the final.”

With just over 400 days to go to the Olympic Games, it is another statement of intent from Taylor as she ran up 80 points in her four bouts in the competition.

She will hope to keep her run going in October where she will travel to Rotterdam where a fifth European championship title is in the offing.

And the big one comes next April with the 2012 World Championships in China providing the qualifying route into the London Games.

It was an impressive run in Poland as Taylor

notched up a massive 28 points in her victory over English champion Chantelle Cameron in the semi-final, a performance which ringside AIBA director of boxing Dominic O’Rourke described as “different class”.

She had earlier defeated Poland’s Marzia Davide in the quarters on a 16-5 verdict to assure herself of a medal.

And speaking earlier this week about her upcoming year, she was keen not to look too far into the future.

“The European Championships is definitely the big one for me in 2011. The Europeans

have been my target all along for this year and, hopefully, I will do well in Rotterdam,” she said.

“The focus will then s w i t c h t ow a r d s t h e World Championships and Olympic qualifier next year.

“Qualifying for the Olympics is my ultimate goal and there’s no doubt that the next World Championships will be the biggest tournament of my life.

“I won gold at the World Championships in China a few years ago. The judging was very fair at that tournament and I’m confident that it will be the same next time.”

9 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 29

in association with

Aiming for the five-ring circus STEPHEN FINDLATER talks to Sinead McCarthy, Ireland’s star hockey player, as the team get set for their first challenge ahead of Olympics 2012 GIVEN Giovanni Trappatoni’s recent travails, what would he give for a recruit like Sinead McCarthy?

While commitment to the cause is questioned on the soccer front, since making the decision to pursue her Irish international hockey dream 24 months ago, the Manchester-born player has endured two big upheavals.

The second of those saw her end up with Booterstown-based club Hermes, after a year in Cork, in order to try and break into the Ireland set-up before a change in approach saw her move to Dublin.

Upping sticks from

England was an ambitious move, one which she initially felt may have been in vain, but the 28year-old is now preparing to play in her first worldlevel event later this month at the Champion’s Challenge in UCD. At the tournament, Ireland will compete against seven sides ranked between 8th and 15th in the world and, speaking to GazetteSport, it’s an arena McCarthy is thrilled in which to wear a green, rather than white, shirt. ”Funnily enough, my debut was for England against Ireland in 2000 in Milton Keynes, an U-18 Home Nations’ match.

Sinead McCarthy in action against Australia

We drew and shared the gold medal. It was very odd, because I’d always been an Ireland supporter in soccer and rugby growing up. To play against them was odd.”

world leaders, Australia, offered a chance in July of last year and she has not relinquished her place yet, playing 12 times in the Irish jersey since.

“I was thrown in at the

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‘We’ve trained hard over the winter - everything we have been building for is just around the corner, and everyone is excited to see how far we’ve come’ --------------------------------------------------------

That feeling comes with two Irish parents. She retained an Irish passport as a result and, when opportunities to progress in the English set-up seemed limited, McCarthy used family contacts in Cork to see if Ireland could offer an avenue to international hockey She suffered an initial setback, though.

“I spent the season with Harlequins and came up for trials and wasn’t selected for the World Cup qualifiers in Chile in 2010, and I thought I might not get another chance in many ways.

“I’m older than a lot of the other girls coming into the system and I thought I had missed the boat.”

With national coach, Gene Muller, looking to freshen up his panel in the aftermath of a disappointing qualification campaign, however, McCarthy was the beneficiary of a revamped selection.

A friendly series against

deep end against Australia. It was an incredible experience, a day I’ll never forget.”

But after just a couple of weeks with that panel, Ireland’s women revolutionised their training structures, with a Central Participation Programme (CPP) which saw players encouraged to move to Dublin for a more intensive training regimen of up to 25 hours a week.

“I’d always thought Cork would be the place I would have lived in Ireland. I never considered living in Dublin. It’s a great city and it’s worked out brilliantly.”

To that end, she joined a third club in three years with Hermes’ coach Mary Logue – “just the kind of person you want to work with and, as a former international, someone I felt I could learn from” – snapping up the combative McCarthy to bolster either their midfield or defensive set-up.

Commitment to the CPP made it tough to assimilate fully with the Booterstown team, but an Irish Senior Cup and Irish Hockey League final appearance, combined with a Leinster league title, helped form an emotional bond.

“Winning the Leinster league showed the strength of the squad we had. I think every player who wasn’t playing was in the stand that night and celebrated just as hard as those who won it on the pitch and showed the spirit we had in the squad.”

Summer brings the international season, her first of an intensive programme that builds to the Europeans in August, a first potential entry point to the Olympics.

Having negotiated the Celtic Cup, the Champion’s Challenge provides the next major competition to assess where Ireland are at this point in their development.

“The Champion’s Challenge is just so exciting and the fact it’s in Dublin, hopefully we can get a lot of people down to watch.

“To be playing against the calibre of teams coming over, it’s been a long time coming. We’ve trained hard over the winter with no matches, and now everything we have been building for is just around the corner, and everyone is excited to see how far we’ve come.”

FastSport

Flynn named in Ireland panel for Turkey test COOLMINE athlete David Flynn has been selected to take part in the 3,000m steeplechase for the Ireland team at the European Team Championships, set to be held on June 18 and 19 in Izmir, Turkey.

The team also includes former Irish Olympians, such as Paul Hession, David Gillick and Derval O’Rourke.

After David’s successful college season in America, he has achieved the fastest steeplechase time in Irish history since 2002.

This is David’s first senior Irish representation and said: “I am really excited about this opportunity to run in a senior vest. I know if everything goes well, I can compete with the best in world steeplechasing.

“Also, I will get great expierence from this event, with the likes of Gillick and Hession there to mentor me.” David won the Rocky Mountain Athletics Conference for his college, Western State, earning his first conference title.

David has also qualified to run in the European under 23 championship in Ostrava, Czech Republic this July where he is ranked 7th in europe at under 23 level.

Special stars come from all over the city WITH the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games set to take place between June 25 and July 4, it has been announced that there will be a total of 17 athletes from Dublin representing Ireland in Athens.

This is the biggest sporting event to take place in the world this year with 7,000 athletes from 185 nations competing.

The athletes taking part come from across the city, and include Gary O’Brien from Portmarnock (track and field), Lorraine O’Halloran from Palmerstown (swimming), Sarah Byrne from Palmerstown and Amanda McCallister from Dun Laoghaire (basketball), Laura Rumball from Dun Laoghaire (gymnastics), and Robert Deegan from Ballinteer (table tennis), among others. There is also an array of coaches from Dublin assisting the teams.

30 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

FAI CUP: LATE FIGHTBACK SEES ORCHARD COME CLOSE TO PARITY

Local student shines at Irish schools’ event IN ONE of the highlights of the AVIVA Irish Schools track and field championships at Tullamore Harriers stadium last Saturday, Joseph Ojewumi claimed a pair of sprint medals.

In a thrilling 100-metre junior boys final, the Deansrath student got his chest just in front of Sligo GS’s Zac Irwin, taking victory by just a single hundredth of a second, finishing in 11.64 seconds.

The roles were reversed in the 200 metres, Irwin winning in a time of 23.45 with Ojewumi in second place, a quarter of a second back.

Weather conditions were near to perfect for the championships as a string of records were broken over the course of the event, the pinnacle of the school’s calendar.

Elsewhere, Kate Veale (St. Augustine’s) easily won the senior 3,000m walk in a time of 12:40.09, a time that demolished Anne Loughnane’s 2003 record of 13:51.

Anyone who thinks that Veale’s records will last a long time could well be in for a re-think because Sinead Burke (Maynooth PPS) won the junior 1,200m walk in a time of 5:27.33, just outside Veale’s 5:27.27 record.

Marco Pons (Wexford CBS) broke Frank O’Brien’s 1983 record of 53.60m in the senior discus. He had a throw of 54.17m in the third round and followed up with 54.08m in the fifth round. Another record was broken

by Cara Kennedy (Waterford CFF) whose 55.31m effort in the first round of the senior hammer broke Rachel Akers’ 2004 record of 52.91m.

Peamount tee off for annual golf classic PEAMOUNT United’s golf classic takes place on June 17, in Grange Castle Golf Club, with a meal afterwards in the Tree Top restaurant in Clondalkin village.

A team of 4 costs

€220, including the meal. Sponsorship is available for the Tee boxes and greens at €100 each.

If you would like to take part or sponsor a tee box, contact 0872469561, 0876763880 or 0879768754 or email peamount@ peamount.com. For further information, go to www. peamount.com.

Cherry Orchard will have to reflect on a good performance against UCD in the FAI Cup last week

Cherry pipped in cup FAI CUP THIRD ROUND UCD Cherry Orchard JONNY STAPLETON

2 1

sport@gazettegroup.com

CHERRY Orchard exited the FAI Cup despite a gallant effort against professional side UCD last Friday evening.

It was a case of too little, too late, for the LSL Senior side as fortune for once failed to favour the brave. Their last-ditch rally failed to produce a leveller, and the Students ended the Ballyfermot side’s season.

UCD fittingly looked leagues apart in the early stages and an over-awed Orchard were cut open in

the opening exchanges.

Sean Russell and Samir Belhout were chief Orchard tormentors, but a fine Gallagher save and some wayward Student finishing prevented UCD from translating their pressure onto the scoreboard.

The Ballyfermot amateur outfit, who are managed by Clondalkin native and former Dublin Bus manager Paul Doyle, eventually got to grips with the professionals and began to create some chances of their own before the turn.

Adam Crowther went close but, unfortunately, fired the wrong side of the post.

More often than not, misses at this higher level are punished, and that proved to the case.

UCD struck within minutes as Paul Corry’s shot was parried into the path of the lively Russell, who finished from five yards.

Former Monaghan Town and Bus frontman Philip Sheppard did come close to levelling before the turn as the visitors continued to match their divisionally superior rivals in the closing stages of the first period.

The regular LSL scorer pounced on a Ciaran Nangle error but couldn’t place the ball past Ger Barron in the home goal,

and UCD deservedly took a goal advantage into the turn.

After looking ripe for the taking in the early stages of the first period, Orchard looked shaky again after the turn.

The Students set about teaching the LSL Senior side a footballing lesson and finally doubled their advantage when Stephen Doyle started and finished a fine move with just 30 minutes remaining.

At 2-0 down against a pro side, Cherry Orchard could have folded, but they showed resilience and character.

Sub Philly O’Connor came close twice as

Cherry Orchard tried to get back into the tie.

The industrious Sheppard looked to have bagged the goal his allround effort deserved, however the Riversdale native’s chip found its way past the keeper but not the crossbar.

The goal finally arrived via the head of Alan McNevin, and an inspired Orchard went in search of a dramatic last-gasp equaliser.

Despite having three chances to score in a matter of seconds - Adam Crowther hit the crossbar, O’Connor saw his header saved before Crowther skied a rebound - Orchard exited the tournament.

Ormond going back to his roots on undercard JONNY STAPLETON sport@gazettegroup.com

STEPHEN Ormond returns home to the venue were he made his name when he fights on the undercard of Pajo Hyland’s National Stadiumhosted WBF world title fight on June 25.

The much-travelled boxer lit up the only purpose-built boxing venue in the world as an amateur, winning three senior titles and earning a reputation that saw him tipped as the natural successor to fel-

low Clondalkin star, Bernard Dunne’s throne.

The Frank Warren-promoted 28-year-old now enters the famous ring without his head guard and vest for the first time in what is only his third pro fight in Ireland after he replaced stablemate Ian Tims on the card.

And Ormond can’t wait for what he predicts will be a victorious and boisterous welcome home: “I am going back to my roots. I am really looking forward to this fight. The Stadium has the best atmosphere in the

world for boxing. I have travelled as a pro and amateur and the Stadium is still my favourite venue. I haven’t fought there in over five years and I can’t wait to get back. When Paddy Hyland asked me to fight on the show I didn’t hesitate. It is a chance to fight in front of my home fans.”

The Clondalkin native, who was tipped by big-time American promoter, Lou Debella, to become a world champ, last seven fights have been shared between the UK and America and he is delighted to be able

to showcase his talents to the Dublin faithful once again.

However, Ormond is adamant there is no pressure to put on a show and he will just ensure he notches up win number 10 ahead of his return to bumper Warren cards.

“It is a great chance to let the people of Dublin see me in action again, but I don’t think there is pressure on me. I am only back in the gym this week and I will just box to win the fight. I will use this as a warm for my fight in the UK next month.”

9 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31

in association with

AFL 2: DELANEY PLEASED WITH AWAY VICTORY

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ROUND TOWERS THE senior ladies’ footballers were

sion continues on Wednesdays at

beaten by Clontarf in the champi-

7.15pm on Monastery Road. Spread

onship, and the senior mens’ foot-

the word, all welcome.

ballers beat St Pat’s in the league.

This week’s lotto numbers were

The junior hurlers and junior A

5, 10, 21 and 26. Bonus Ball was 20.

footballer s were beaten in the

There was no winner of this week’s

league.

jackpot of €4,400.

This year’s La na gClub will take

Congratulations to Eammon

place on Sunday next — the official

O’Malley, Teresa Davis and Adam

sod turning ceremony for our new

Dunlop, who were the three €100

pitch development will take place at

winners.

4pm by GAA President-elect, Liam

Round Towers’ GAA Club’s annual

O’Neill, along with members of the

club Mass for deceased members, will

Dublin football and hurling panels.

be held in the clubrooms on Wednes-

The day starts at 1.30pm, so come

day July 6 at 8pm. All club members

along and enjoy the event.

encouraged to attend, which will be

Gaelic 4 Fathers light training ses-

celebrated by Fr John Wall.

ST PAT’S PALMERSTOWN Round Towers took the points in their encounter with near neighbours, St Pat’s, at Glenauline Park

Towers prevail in tough derby match AFL DIVISION 2 St Pat’s Palmerstown Round Towers PETER CARROLL

0-8 0-9

sport@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL rivals met last Wednesday when Round Towers of Clondalkin took on St Patrick’s of Palmerstown in a high tempo AFL 2 game at Glenauline Park.

Towers went into the clash missing a number of key players, and, on a Glenauline ground which they admit they struggle to get comfortable on due to its tight dimensions.

In a game where both teams had dominant phases of play, it was a typical derby game, with only one score separating the sides at full time.

In the first half, the traded scores with Towers on several occasions finding themselves in front, only for St Pat’s to come back and level.

Pat’s frequently threatened the Towers’ goal, and were unlucky not to

leave the first half with one major at least.

One goal looked a certainty when the referee gave the Palmerstown side a penalty in the first half, before Keith Graham made a tremendous save, marking a key point in a game that was won by such a small margin.

The teams left the field at half time with Towers leading Pat’s 0-6 to 0-4.

There is no doubt that St. Patrick’s would have been disappointed with their failur to convert chances into points during some dominant spells of play.

The second half didn’t provide the same number of scores as the first, but was played at an equally high tempo.

Both teams again enjoyed long spells of dominance, with St Pat’s really coming into their own in the last ten minutes, piling on the pressure in search of some much-needed scores to elevate their current

league status.

Towe r s ’ m a n I a n Ward made a gamewinning challenge during St Pat’s last attack on Keith Graham’s goal which led to his team claiming the victory by one point, finishing 0-9 to Pat’s 0-8.

Towers’ manager Tony Delaney praised some of the individual performances from the day.

“Brian Costello had an outstanding performance at wing half back, getting up and down throughout game. James Whelan was another stand-out performer,

and Paidi Swinburne had a great game, scoring three points from open play.”

Delaney also noted his side may have been leaning somewhat on the side of luck of late, with such a narrow win and nail-biting finish in such a closely-contested game.

“I’m delighted we got away with the win.

We never get anything handy out there. I’m very happy to be where we are in the league.”

Round Towers lie two points off the top of AFL 2 with a game in hand.

Juvenile football: Under-8s, 9s

Cross.

and 10s played Kilmacud Crokes,

Our sincere thanks also to the

St Jude’s and Good Counsel, while

Palmerstown House who sponsored

the Under- 11s beat St Mary’s and

the busses on the night.

Under-12s drew with Ballinteer St John’s.

Senior footballers lost their mid week league game by the narrowest on margins to Round Towers (C) while juniors had a good away win against Clanna Gael.

To visit our website, simply log on to www.stpatricksgaa.ie.

Lotto no’s drawn were 4, 9, 12 and 28.

There was no winner of the €7,600 jackpot.

No match any three numbers.

Junior hurlers at home in champi-

Four x €50 lucky dips winners were

onship to Crumlin and away to Tho-

Sean White, Helen Callaghan, Kay

mas Davis on Sunday at 3pm.

Ryan and Elaine & Sean.

Our sincere thanks to our members,friends and advertisers who supported our fundraiser on Friday last at the dogs in Harold

Next week’s lotto jackpot will be €7,800.

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

LUCAN SARSFIELDS GOOD luck this week to our junior

Street league for boys/girls born

A and B hurlers in championship

2002 to 2004: Registration takes

matches this week, and to the sen-

place on Saturdays, June 11 and

ior footballers who play in the Vin-

June 18 between 1.30pm and 3pm at

cent de Paul Cup.

the hut beside AWP in 12th Lock.

The County Colours barbecue is

Matches take place on Tuesday,

this Friday, June 10, with special

June 21, and Friday, June 24 . Chil-

guest. Tickets available from the

dren must register.

bar, chairman and Ra y Barnes.

Price €20.

Golf Society: Next outing to Hollystown is on Saturda y, June 11

Summer camps have been fixed for the July 4 to 8 , and July 11 to 15; and from August 8 to 12t, and August 15 to 19.

(tee-off times from 12noon to 2pm)

Register online via website. There

Please contact Michael O’Grady

is a discount if registration is done

(087 2331983) to get on timesheet.

Visitors welcome.

before June 30.

B/H Lotto Numbers on website

Lucan Sarsfields’ 125 Celebration

after draw. Seamus Clandillon’s

Open Day: Sunday, June 19 at The

team will be in charge next week-

12th Lock, from 2pm to 6pm.

end.

There will be fantastic displays

Do not forget you can alwa ys

fr om the Emer gency Ser vice s ,

enter our Lotto online by clicking

bands, food market, stalls, barbe-

on www.lucansarsfields.ie.

cue, as well asworkshops, etc. Free entry and fun for all the family.

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

ALL OF YOUR CLONDALKIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

CHERRIES BOMB: Orchard denied place in next round of FAI Cup by UCD P30

JUNE 9, 2011

MCCARTHY MAGIC: New arrival pursues Olympic dream P29

GazetteSPORT

Round Towers will break ground at the La na gClub event this weekend, and hope to raise the remaining funds with the community’s help

Towers celebrate their future goal La na gClub celebration will mark commencement of pitch development project for local GAA club PETER CARROLL sport@gazettegroup.com

ROUND Towers GAA Club have announced the need for the community to get involved in helping them to secure the funds required for their state-of-the-art facility, planned for Monastery Road, which will cost €750,000.

The facility, which will make the club amongst the most highly-developed in the country, will boast an all-weather playing surface, a hurling skills wall, and will also cover remedial work undertaken on the playing surface of the existing main pitch.

The members of the club have raised €500,000 so far, and they are now looking for the support of the local community to get them over the final hurdle.

Having been green-lit by the banks and the GAA, the club will celebrate the beginning of the site’s construction with La na gClub on

June 12, which will also be a celebration of 127 years of Round Towers’ GAA. President elect of the GAA, Liam O’Neill, will turn the first sod on the Monastery Road site to signal the commencement of the pitch development project. Joining him will be members of the Dublin football and hurling panels in what promises to be a memorable day in the club’s history.

Historic day Niall Connaughton, Round Towers’ GAA Club Secretary took time to express his feelings on the upcoming day.

“This will be a historic and momentous day for the club and the start of an enduring legacy that will be with the people of Clondalkin for generations to come.

“La na gClub is a celebration for the community and has particular appeal for children and families.

We want to extend an invitation to our members and the wider Clondalkin community to join us for a day of fun activities and entertainment.

“This is a unique event that brings people together on an annual basis and we expect this year’s La na gClub to build on the success of those that have been running since 2007.”

Senior football manager, Tony Delaney, also highlighted how the proposed facilities will help, not only Round Towers’ GAA Club, but the greater Clondalkin area.

“Hopefully, the community will help us out here because it stands to be beneficial to all the children in the area, with schools being able to use our facilities, as well as our own teams.”

To make a donation to the Redevelopment Fund, you can contact Barry Gavin, on 087 908 1661, or members of the Round Tower Development Committee.