Clondalkin

Clondalkin GAZET TE FREE

‘Family fun and a luxury break at Sheen Falls Lodge’ TRAVEL: P20-21.

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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Pippa goes the extra mile for charity P6

June 16, 2011

PROTECTION PLAN: Council move

for conservation of heritage See Page 4

A show of skills: Proud event for graduates Round Towers: President-elect of GAA turns sod at Monastery Rd Page 32

GRADUATE Philip Muddiman, was joined by his proud parents, Lorraine and Brendan, at the recent ITT Dublin Creative Digital Media Graduate Show held at RuaRed Arts Centre, Tallaght. The event was a very special occasion for all who attended, with family and friends of the graduates witnessing some fantastic work from the students, which included photography, audio and multimedia productions.

Picture: Pearl Phelan

Full Gallery on Page 2

Boxing: Local hero Fleming hailed at awards Page 30

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ...... 2, 8 and 9 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS ................... 20 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Growing fears over bin waiver charges Councillors urge system for lowincome homes

Q DAWN LOVE

POLITICIANS from across the spectrum at South Dublin County Council have voted in favour of a proposal urging the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Phil Hogan, to put in place a national system of bin

charge waivers for low-income households.

Some 17,000 householders in South Dublin are currently in receipt of the waiver. Labour councillor Eamon Tuffy said he was concerned that, following the sale of the council’s household bin service, the waiver would “disappear” by early

next year.

“Now that the Manager has sold off the council’s household bin service to a private company, the waiver that the council operated for many years is no longer available to new applicants,” he said.

Full Story on Page 7

2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 16 June 2011

COURTS: FATALITY CASE COLLEGES ITT students highlight media-related skills

Stamped on woman’s head

A MAN will be sentenced later this month for killing a woman because he thought she was spreading rumours about his newborn baby being taken into care.

Wesley Ward (33), of Aras Na Cluaine, Clondalkin, pulled Ms Tracey O’Brien to the ground and kicked and stamped on her head outside the Rotunda Hospital.

The mother of his child was also involved in the attack. She was acquitted of manslaughter but convicted of assault causing harm last month.

The court heard Ward told gardai on his arrest: “All I did was kick her in the face, what’s wrong with that?”

Ward pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Ms O’Brien (31) on June 25, 2009. The court heard that Ms O’Brien had been accused by Ward of spreading false rumours about his newborn child.

When she called to the hospital, she was attacked

by Ward and his partner.

Following the attack, Ms O’Brien was bleeding heavily, disorientated and vomiting.

The victim was in hospital for a week after the assault before she died of her injuries, which included a skull fracture and a brain haemorrhage.

After hearing evidence of the killing, Judge Martin Nolan remanded Ward on bail to face sentence later this month.

Graduates Adam Dempsey, Michael Maguire and Donal O’Keefe. Pictures: Pearl Phelan

A creative way to graduate NUMBER of local faces were spotted at the recent ITT Dublin Creative Digital Media Graduate Show held at RuaRed Arts Centre, Tallaght, where a superb showcase highlighted the work of graduating students in a number of fields, including video, photography, audio and multimedia productions.

Adding to the gravitas and importance of the show-

A

Graduate Lisa Dunn

Graduate Niamh Doyle

case, there were screenings of the documentary, Chernobyl Children, by Colm Flynn, winner of the 2010 National Student Media Award for TV Production of the Year, and Mark Donohoe’s superb short film, One More Time, highly-commended at the Kerry Film Festival in 2009.

The show was certainly an excellent way to highlight the notable skills of the graduating students.

Graduate Philip Muddiman, with his parents, Lorraine and Brendan

Lisa Dunn, with her parents, John and Denise

16 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3

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Exceptional Dublin people: Celebrated as finalists DIRECTOR of the Clondalkin based Pieta House, Joan Freeman, (pictured here with Krystian Fikert), is among four exceptional Dublin people who have been announced as finalists of the 2011 Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Awards, each vying for a part of the €650,000 prize fund. Finalist and former Amnesty International director, Sean Love, established Fighting Words with renowned author Roddy Doyle; Polish national Krystian Fikert’s Dublin-based MyMind charity which also received a nomination as finalist; Drumcondra woman Niamh Gallagher is one half of successful finalists Women for Election.

The €650,000 prize fund, supported by DCC plc, has increased by over a third this year in response to the increasing strength of social entrepreneurship in Ireland and the growing need for the services social entrepreneurs provide.

The finalists will now embark on a threemonth “finalists programme”, where they will receive funding and support to assess and develop their ideas prior to final selection of the 2011 winners in October.

Announcing the finalists, CEO Sean Coughlan said: “It is a testament to the growth of social entrepreneurship in Ireland that we have seen such high standards of applicants to the Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Awards year on year.”

COURTS: SUSPENDED SENTENCE FOR NIGHTCLUB ATTACK

Left victim with fractured jaw A YOUNG Clondalkin man, who left his victim with a fractured jaw that had to be wired shut for four weeks, has been given a suspended sentence.

James Nolan (25), assaulted his victim because he believed the man had been making advances towards his girlfriend earlier that night.

Nolan, with an address at St Ronan’s Avenue, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assaulting the man causing him harm at Bondi Beach Nightclub, Ormonde Quay, on November 23, 2008.

Judge Martin Nolan imposed a two-year suspended sentence on condition Nolan be of good behaviour. He noted Nolan had paid €8,000 over to his victim.

Garda Adrian Cahill told Mr Cormac Quinn BL, prosecuting, that the injured party had been drinking upstairs on the premises when the next thing he could remember was lying on the ground spitting blood.

A witness described seeing Nolan strike the man a blow and then hit him again while he was on the ground. Gda Cahill said it was unclear how many subsequent blows there had been.

He said the victim was taken to hospital where he underwent a four-hour operation and had to have his jaw wired shut for four weeks as well as receiving stitches inside his mouth.

He was out of work for a time and lost two stone in weight.

Gda Cahill told Judge

Nolan that the accused said the victim had made advances towards his girlfriend earlier in the night.

Nolan told gardai he had exchanged a few words that night with the man and felt that the man had been pulling out of his girlfriend on the dance floor. He said it was a “stupid mistake”.

Gda Cahill agreed with Mr Lorcan Staines BL, defending, that there had been a large amount of alcohol taken and the victim had no recollection of the incident.

He agreed that Nolan had expressed remorse and could not have been more helpful to gardai.

Gda Cahill agreed that Nolan, a service engineer, comes from a respectable family, has a strong work

record and there has been no further garda attention.

Mr Staines submitted that the view of the probation officer in a report handed into court was that it was an isolated incident fuelled by alcohol and that Nolan had displayed shame, disgust and victim empathy.

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4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GOVERNMENT: HELPING IRELAND’S YOUNG

HERITAGE Some 79 actions comprise the core of plan

Department of Children and Youth ‘a big step’ Q PAUL HOSFORD clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL Fine Gael TD and Government Minister, Frances Fitzgerald, has announced the formal establishment of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs.

The Minister said that the establishment of the department signalled a big step forward for the country.

Delighted

“I am delighted that the Government has taken the decision to establish the Department of Children and Youths Affairs, a decision which highlights its commitment to the youngest members of Irish society.

“I am honoured to have been chosen to lead this Department,” she said.

The new department will be committed to ensuring that every child

in Ireland is afforded the opportunity to grow up in a happy and safe environment and to reach their full potential.

“I look forward to working hard to protect the needs and rights of children in Clondalkin, Lucan, and nationwide, and making sure they have access to opportunities and resources in order to lead happy and healthy childhoods,” said Minister Fitzgerald.

The Minister said the Department of Children and Youth Affairs would continue with its tradition of consulting with the children and youth of Ireland to develop policies appropriate to their needs.

“I began this journey by consulting with schools and youth services on the National Children’s Strategy and I will continue to reach out and communicate with children and families,” said the Minister.

A major new heritage plan unveiled by South Dublin County Council will help to form an agreed action plan for the county’s diverse heritage, such as Clondalkin’s iconic Round Tower (right)

Major new heritage plan is launched by the council Q PAUL HOSFORD clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

A MAJOR new heritage plan has been launched

by South Dublin County Council (SDCC).

The plan was launched

by Mayor of SDCC, Councillor Marie Corr at

the Rua Red Arts Centre in Tallaght.

The South Dublin County Heritage Plan is an agreed action plan of South Dublin County Council.

It offers a framework for the protection and conser vation of the county’s rich and varied heritage resource and offers a partnership process within which communities and individuals can engage with the council to assist in the delivery of the plan’s objectives.

The 79 actions that comprise the core of the plan are a product of a detailed process of

public consultation and engagement with a wide range of heritage experts, community groups, and individuals.

Following the extensive consultation process, the plan was prepared by the South Dublin County Heritage Forum in conjunction with the County Heritage Officer, Rosaleen Dwyer.

The plan will operate over a five-year period and implementation of its actions is supported

by SDCC and the Heritage Council.

The plan, which can be seen on www.SDCC.ie, outlines the importance

of protecting local heritage.

Practically, it contains numerous objectives, including the establishment of a County Heritage Database to collate archaeological, architectural, cultural and natural heritage records for the county.

The plan also hopes to collate information on holy wells, Mass rocks and Mass paths in the county and develop a strategy to appreciate and protect these heritage features wherever possible and, in conjunction with the Geological Survey of Ireland, to identify and

collate information on geologically important sites in the county.

There are also plans to liaise with the National Museum of Ireland, and other stakeholders, to identify and list artefacts held by these bodies that originate in South Dublin county.

It’s hoped the new initiative will help provide information to raise awareness, appreciation, and enjoyment of the county’s heritage.

For further information, contact the SDCC Heritage Officer Rosaleen Dwyer at 01-4149222 or rdwyer@sdublincoco.ie.

COURTS: MAN HAD €178,000 OF CANNABIS IN CAR

Lithuanian given sevenyear sentence for drug haul A LITHUANIAN man has been jailed for seven years at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after being convicted of possession of cannabis herb valued at more than €178,000.

Remigijus Tuma (29), of Newlands Manor Park, and formerly of Millpark, both in Clondalkin, was convicted last month of three counts of possession of the drugs and possession of the drugs for sale or supply at Killakee Road, Rathfarnham, on May 2, 2008.

Garda David Sheehan told Mr Paul Carroll BL, prosecuting, that

gardai were on routine patrol in the area when they came across a vehicle registered to Tuma.

They had earlier spotted a person from the car looking over a ditch and, when they turned on their siren, the vehicle drove away.

Gardai pulled the car over, and when they enquired about a large bag in the rear seat, the three people in the vehicle spoke to each other in a foreign language.

When gardai said they were going to search the car, the front and rear passengers absconded but Tuma, the driver, was arrested.

He later told gardai that he had agreed to drive the two people to Bray for €500. The suitcase contained 15 kilograms of cannabis herb, with a street value of €178,430, but Tuma claimed he didn’t know what was in it.

Judge Yvonne Murphy said she could not depart from the mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, but she reduced this to seven years, taking into account Tuma’s lack of prior convictions, his previous good character, and the fact that he had returned to Ireland to stand trial.

16 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5

SHOP LOCAL The benefits of spending a little closer to home

How supporting our local economy is supporting our local community T HE Gazette is never backward about coming forward when it comes to our support for the local community – in fact, it is the very essence of what we do.

By bringing together news, features, pictures and reports about local politics, sport, social events and enterprise, we do what we can to support all of these areas.

Support is the key to a thriving local community, and every member of the public can contribute to this support.

Simply put, shopping locally benefits the local area.

By shopping locally, without any of the expedition involved in travelling across the city, we can support local business, enterprise and industry, all of which play a far greater role in our quality of life than one might imagine.

On a very basic level, the commercial rates that even the smallest of such local businesses pay, goes directly to our local council.

Without these rates, the quality of public amenities, from parks and playgrounds to sports facilities and community groups, would simply not be of the standard we currently enjoy.

Taking this train of thought a little further - by keeping one local business open when we shop local, we are supporting local jobs for local people.

On top of this, every local business, and their employees, will naturally tend to support their neighbouring businesses – be it by buying a sandwich, renting a DVD, getting their dry cleaning done, or filling a prescription – the hustle and bustle that goes hand in hand with local business is mutually beneficial.

Greenogue Business Park, along with its neighbouring industrial estate, is a vibrant hub of business,

with a vast array of local, home-grown businesses running in the area.

Even at a time when money is scarce, there is a plethora of local businesses for residents to get behind.

Thyes Kavanagh, chairman of the Clondalkin Chamber of Commerce,

says that the Chamber hopes that jobs can be preserved and business can grow if people can be convinced to Shop Local.

“In these difficult times, Clondalkin Chamber of Commerce is calling on people to Shop Local.

“Please support local

business, not only do they offer great value for money but also a personal service. These businesses employ a large number of local people, both full and part-time, and need your support.

“Clondalkin Chamber of Commerce is at present working on their

own campaign to promote local business and are also updating their website.

“We would like to thank the Gazette for their Shop Local feature and hope that shoppers will support the advertisers within the supplement,” Mr Kavanagh said.

6 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 16 June 2011

COUNCIL:

Assisting schools SOUTH Dublin County Council, says it is continuing to assist schools that are ‘‘proactive’’ in solving problems such as parking illegally outside grounds.

At a recent meeting, Labour councillor, Breeda Bonner asked the council to produce a report on the efforts the council makes to address the problem of “dangerous and illegal parking” outside and near schools.

Assistance The council said that along with a network of school wardens and signalised crossings through the county, they also give assistance to schools that are “proactive in solving the problems in their school area” such as opening additional pedestrian entrances and encouraging walk-toschool programmes.

ROW ‘Selling out the people’

Accusations anger TDs Q NAOMI YOUNG

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

news@gazettegroup.com

Deputy Robert Dowds said he was ‘shocked’ by the statement

A WAR of words has broken out this week after Clondalkin Sinn Féin Councillor Matthew McDonagh accused Labour Party TDs Joanna Tuffy and Robert Dowds of selling out the people of Clondalkin by voting for a continuation of the Universal Social Charge.

Campaign Councillor McDonagh was speaking in Clondalkin while out campaigning against the charge in the nationwide petition to abolish it.

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“Both Rober t and Joanna have gone back on their word and preelection promises and voted for the continuation of this charge. They have sold out the people of not only Clondalkin, but Dublin mid-west, who voted for them,” he claimed.

Charge Howe ve r, D e p u t y Tuffy said that she never voted for a continuation of the charge.

“I voted to review this charge, not to continue it. There is nothing that can be done until the next General Election

anyway.

“The Government can then decide what is best, whether to continue or abolish the charge.

“At the end of the day, people must pay their fair share and the Universal Social Charge is in place to protect lower paid workers,” she said.

Meanwhile, Deputy Dowds said he was ‘’shocked’’ by the statement. ‘‘If it were not for the disastrous bank guarantee, which Labour opposed and Sinn Fein infamously supported, then the final bill for the banking crisis would not be nearly as high as it has turned out to be.’’

A source close to Deputy Dowds told the Gazette: “Cllr McDonagh has assured Robert that he had no intention of accusing him personally of betrayal and will seek to have that accusation withdrawn.”

Top model Pippa O’Connor will raise the funds for the Irish Cancer Society

RATHCOOLE: THIRD ANNUAL EVENT

District Charity Walk launched by model Q NAOMI YOUNG

news@gazettegroup.com

T OP m o d e l , P i p p a O’Connor, launched the 2011 4 Districts Charity Walk, which will take place in Rathcoole on Saturday, June 25.

Pippa will be joining the four parishes of Rathcoole, Saggart, Newcastle and Brittas to raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society.

The third annual event, taking place in Rathcoole Park, opposite Avoca, will run from 10am to 6pm.

To date, the Charity Walk has not only raised €30,000 for the Irish Cancer Society, but also set a new Guinness Book of Records, World

Record, for being The World’s Largest Charity Walk.

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‘Adults pay €10 per ticket to walk a mile and children under 12 walk for free’ --------------------------

Saturday, June 25 , will see attempts to regain the World Record, after the original number of 1,903 was recently broken in San Antonio, Texas, by 5,441 walkers.

Charity “We need your help.

Six thousand people are needed to come out and walk a mile for charity

anytime between 10am and 6pm,” said a spokesperson for the Irish Cancer Society.

“Our aim is to regain the orld record and raise €60,000 for the Irish Cancer Society.”

The Artane Boy’s Senior band will be providing live music alongside the usual attractions, such as the FM104 RoadHog, water zorbs, kayaking, go karting, archery and shooting.

Adults pay €10 per ticket to walk a mile and all children under 12 walk for free on the day.

Tickets can be purchased on the day or either in advance from Paddy Byrne’s Newsagent, the Mall, Main St. Rathcoole.

16 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 7

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SDCC Politicians fear changes after sale of service

Concerns over bin waivers Q DAWN LOVE

POLITICIANS from across the spectrum at South Dublin County Council have voted in favour of a proposal urging the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to put in place a national system of bin charge waivers for lowincome households.

Some 17,000 householders in South Dublin are currently in receipt of the waiver. However, Labour Councillor Eamon Tuffy said he was concerned that, following the sale of the council’s household bin service, the waiver would almost “certainly disappear by early next year”.

South Dublin county councillors voted

unanimously in favour of the motion put down

by Councillor Tuffy, to write to Minister Phil Hogan seeking to have a national bin charge waiver system for low income households put in place.

Disappear

“Now that the Manager has sold off the council’s household bin service to a private company, the waiver that the council itself operated for many years, is no longer available to new applicants, and will almost certainly disappear by early next year, unless the Government implements the commitment made in its Programme for Government,” said Cllr Tuffy “Recently I was sur-

prised to have got information from the Manager that over 17,000 householders in South Dublin, including over 3,000 in the Lucan Electoral Area, were in receipt of the waiver. So almost 20% of householders, including a large number of pensioners, have incomes so low that they have been deemed to need a waiver.

“South Dublin is one of the few councils to have continued a waiver scheme over the years as many other local authorities privatised their household waste collection services,” he said.

“As a Labour counc i l l o r, I a m d e t e rmined to ensure that in implementing the

SDCC: RESIDENTS CONCERN FOR STATE OF LANEWAY

Call for action on dumping SINN Fein representative in Dublin’s Mid West, Eoin O’Broin, has called on South Dublin County Council to tackle illegal dumping on the Boot Road.

Labour Councillor Eamon Tuffy

Programme the Governmentlity does everything possible to protect the ability of lower

income households to maintain their essential household requirements,” said Cllr Tuffy.

Concerns This comes after concerns from local residents were raised over the state of the laneway between Commons R o a d a n d C o nve n t View.

“The laneway is the site of significant illegal dumping and overgrowth of trees and bushes, according to a source in the area,” said O’Brion.

“I have been contacted by residents of Commons Road who are very concerned with the state of the laneway.

“It has become overg r ow n w i t h u n ke p t

trees, bushes and grass.

As a result it has also become a site for substantial illegal dumping,” he said.

“I have contacted South Dublin County Council, asking them to clear the laneway of the trees and bushes.

“I have also asked them to clear away any illegal dumping.

“I have also asked the council to discuss with the residents the future of the laneway and to consider extinguishing the right of way.

“Such a move could only take place with the support of the local community.

“However, considering the current state of the laneway, urgent action is required to ensure that it does not continue to blight the local area,’’ he said.

8 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 16 June 2011

CHARITY Over â‚Ź2,500 raised for Multiple Sclerosis Ireland

Carma Dublin

Annette and Karen McGlynn

Fundraising

A great night for good cause

Alan , Imelda, Noeleen, John, Angela, Sabrina and Fran presenting the Waterside with a thank you plaque

HE Dublin West branch of MS Ireland raised â‚Ź2,550 at a fundraising on Friday, June 10 in The Waterside pub, Clondalkin, for people living with Multiple Sclerosis.

A bumper draw was held for prizes and entertainment for the evening was provided by local bands, Rock of Ages and Carma Dublin.

MS Ireland thanks all involved and welcomes all support.

T

John and Nickki Timmons

Keith Mahon, Fran Timmons, John Timmons and Ray Carma Dublin

John, manager of the Waterside and Fran Timmons, chairman of Dublin West MS

Kavanagh

16 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9

at fund-raising event in The Waterside pub, Clondalkin

Francis and John Timmons

Eileen and Ken Keogan

Imelda Connolly Rock of Ages

Antoinette Burtenshaw and Gerard Connolly

10 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 16 June 2011

COURT: ACCUSED CLAIMS CASH WAS FROM LOTTERY

SPECIAL DAY Russian Irish Adoption Group host event

¤95,000 seized from robber THE State has seized €95,000 from a convicted bank robber who claimed the money originated in a lottery win.

Mark Fitzgerald (43) was found with the cash wrapped in clingfilm in his luggage as he was getting a flight to Malaga.

Judge Martin Nolan, at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, said he was satisfied the cash was either the proceeds of crime or was going to be used in crime.

In such cases the State only has to prove “on the balance of probability” that the money was associated with crime. This differs from criminal trials, which have to prove a case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Fitzgerald, of Dunmore Park, Kingswood, Dublin 24, said he was using the money to buy an apartment in Spain but that he could not remember the name of his estate agents.

He claimed he was bringing the money over in cash because he does not trust banks and thought he would get a better deal if he paid cash.

Fitzgerald, who runs a car dealership, admitted his tax affairs are “a bit of a mess” and said he didn’t know if he had ever sent a cheque to Revenue.

The court heard the last VAT returns he filed date to 2006 and show no car sales for that year.

Fitzgerald admitted during cross examination

by Mr John Byrne BL, acting for the State, that he had sold cars during 2006 but that he hadn’t returned VAT for them.

Fitzgerald was stopped at Dublin Airport on November 5, 2008 as he was going to board a flight to Malaga. A customs officer took him to

an interview room where his luggage was searched.

The cash was found in separate bundles wrapped in clingfilm.

Fitzgerald said he was going to buy a property in Spain but that he was not sure of the name of the letting agent.

He said he was dealing with somebody called Tracy but that he did not know her second name or any of her contact details.

He admitted he had previous convictions, that he had started off robbing cars, moved on to robbing banks and had served time in prison where he “got educated”.

Fitzgerald gave evidence that the money came from his car dealing business which was set up with the proceeds of a £500,000 family lottery win in 1997.

He agreed there are no documents to prove where the €95,000 had come from. He also agreed there was no affidavit from “Tracy” to back up his story. He said he had not got one from her because he “didn’t recognise the significance” of the court hearing.

Mr James Dwyer BL, acting for Fitzgerald, said he had given a full account for the purpose of the money and that the State had never contested that he won the lottery.

Counsel added that Fitzgerald had recently sent money to the Revenue to address his tax affairs.

Judge Nolan said that there was no proof that the money was legitimate aside from the claim of a lottery win. He said the State had met the burden of proof “with some to spare” and that Fitzgerald’s explanations were not believable.

Katia Thomas (6) and Katya Bailey (6) master a sack race and (right) Vitaly Dergachev and Daniela Rose, both 11, captivate the audience with their dancing

Children’s party is held to celebrate all things Russian Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

THE Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald, was on hand in her home constituency to help mark Russian Children’s Day in Lucan at an event organised by the Russian Irish Adoption Group last week.

The children’s party, which was held at Finnstown House Hotel, was a true celebration of all things Russian.

It included demonstrations from Russian dancers and singers and Russian party games for the many children in attendance. The barbecue also had a distinctly Russian theme, influenced by chefs from Dublin’s Russian Admiral Restaurant.

The event was organ-

ised by the Russian Irish Adoption Group (RIAG) and Inspiration, the Russian Cultural Centre in Ranelagh, which arranged the cultural element of the day.

Speaking at the event, Minister Fitzgerald said: “The Russian Irish Adoption Group provides an important network for those adopting, or who have already adopted, from Russia and ensures that the adopted children are given exposure to their Russian heritage.

“Adoption is a very difficult, emotional and lengthy journey and it is nice to see so many people here today who have successfully come through that process.”

Tributes were paid at the event to the former Russian Ambassador to Ireland, Mr Mikhail

Timoshkin, who passed away suddenly earlier last week.

Debbie Deegan, founding and managing director of the charity To Russia with Love said: “Mr

isn’t with us today, as he had planned to be, but it is a fitting tribute to him to have so many Russian children and their parents here today celebrating their Russian culture

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‘Adoption is a very difficult, emotional and lengthy journey and it is nice to see so many people here today who have successfully come through that process’

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Minister Frances Fitzgerald

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Timoshkin was passionate about encouraging Irish people who have adopted Russian children, and the children themselves, to embrace Russian culture.

“He was so supportive to the Russian Irish Adoption Group (RIAG) and myself in organising today’s event.

“It is so sad that he

and heritage.”

Russia has not ratified the Hague Convention and, in order for adoptions from Russia to continue, a bilateral agreement is required.

Speaking at the event Minister Fitzgerald said: “The negotiation of a bilateral agreement is primarily the responsibility of the Adoption

Authority.

“Officials from my department have had preliminary exploratory discussions with their Russian counterparts on some legal issues in relation to bilateral agreement.

“As with any bilateral agreement on intercountr y adoption, a bilateral agreement with Russia would need to be explicit on the issues of consent and the financial costs of effecting an adoption,” said Minister Fitzgerald.

The Minister thanked the Russian Irish Adoption Group for their invitation to join them to celebrate Russian Children’s Day and is said to have thoroughly enjoyed the event, which showcased Russian culture through song, dance and culinary delights.

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 16 June 2011

Exploring Dublin’s architecture A RECENTLY launched Architecture Tours Ireland initiative is offering tours of historic and contemporary Dublin architecture.

The tours, which will run every week across the year and take approximate one to one- andhalf hours to complete, will be guided by a group of passionate architects.

Tour capacity will be limited to just 25 participants and the cost per tour is €10 per adult, €5 per child and €8 concession for students, unwaged and seniors. Bookings can be made on www. architecturetours.ie.

Tours currently on offer through Architecture Tours Ireland (ATI) are: Dublin Docklands, The Living City, Georgian Dublin, Temple Bar and Children’s Activity Tours.

Visit www.architecturetours.ie for more information and bookings.

FITNESS Start planning now how to look your best

Shaping up your body for sunny summer QDERRY TEMPLE

SUMMER is here, so it’s time to dig out last year’s swimsuit in preparation for the good weather and your next holiday destination.

But does last year’s swimsuit still fit or has a winter of hibernation taken its toll on your waistline? If you want to get your body in shape for the sunny

summer months, then maybe it’s time to start planning how you are going to look your best.

One way to kick-start a new regime, is to list all the reasons you want to shape up. Writing down your goals and the reasons you want to reach them will help motivate and inspire you. Along with reviewing your reasons for training, you need to set yourself

some realistic goals.

Mark down your weight, and, as your programme develops, you will have a visible record of your progress. Record any training done, and try to consistently improve your results.

The first law of thermodynamics dictates that weight loss occurs whenever energy output exceeds energy intake, you need to increase your daily activity and combine this with good eating habits.

It was reported in the International Journal of Obesity that analysis of the past 25 years of weight loss research found that the average weight loss of a weightreduction programme was hugely increased when a proper diet was followed along with exercise. A food diary can help make you more aware of your nutritional blunders.

Write down absolutely everything you eat and drink and review it to look for common dietary mistakes.

The most common errors include not eating a breakfast, going too long without eating, eating too many processed carbohydrates

Derry Temple-a qualified pilates instructor, strengh and conditioning coach

and not enough vegetables and protein.

One of the best ways to train, is a combination of cardio and resistance training. This helps you to not only lose fat, but also gain muscle, ensuring a toned look, a stronger body and a higher metabolism.

Most important is to do something you really enjoy; working out shouldn’t have to be boring. For those who despise the gym and want to train outdoors in a fun environment, bootcamp may be a suit-

able option. Bootcamps have enjoyed a surge in popularity recently, because they involve a mix of both endurance and resistance training in an enjoyable atmosphere.

It is important to have a circle of support, so you should encourage a friend, family member or spouse to be an exercise partner and join you in your weight loss effort. This person should only be used as a support, however, and not as a crutch to lean on. This is your journey

to the ideal beach body and nobody else can get you there.

Derr y Temple is a qualified pilates instructor, strength and conditioning coach. He runs his own fitness company, DTFitness, offering pilates and bootcamp classes, along with personal training. DTFitness is located in the Artane/Donnycarney area in Dublin 5. You Contact Derry by telephone on 085 7131417.

Email: derry@dtfitness. ie or visit the website: www.dtfitness.ie

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INITIATIVE

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 13

EVENT Weekend with crowds in their thousands

Bloom’s Rudd-y success breakfast pack if they clicked “Like” on the Rudd’s page.

This proved to be a huge success, with more than 600 new fans joining the Rudd’s page at Bloom.

More recently, at Taste of Dublin, Rudd’s ran the same promotion, and saw their Facebook page gain more than 1,100 fans.

Taste of Dublin was as popular as ever, with thousands of people turning out to sample some of the finest food and drink in Dublin and, of course, Rudd’s famous sausages.

To check out photos and news from the events, see www.facebook.com/ rudds.

Talbot Hotel to sponsor Discover Ireland Horse Show THE TALBOT Hotel Group has announced its three-year sponsorship of the 2011 Discover Ireland Horse Show.

The Talbot Group are the proud sponsors of the Speed Derby International Competition.

This prestigious event takes place on Ladies’ Day, August 4, in the RDS main arena and offers a prize of €21,000.

Taking place from August 3 to 7, Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show is one of the world’s largest international show-jumping events in the world and, this year, the show hopes to be even bigger and better than ever before. Not only is the show a top international equestrian event, it is also a wonderful day out with kids’ entertainment, live music every day, champagne bars, great food, trade stands and, not to forget, the style of Blossom Hill

Ladies’ day on August 4.

Over 100 years ago the Talbot Hotel Group originated in Wexford, the sunny south-east of Ireland. Today, along with Talbot Wexford, the Talbot Trinity comprises the Stillorgan Park Hotel and Talbot Carlow. Each of the 4-star Talbot Hotels offer luxurious accommodation, contemporary bars and restaurants, health and leisure facilities, exceptional wedding venues and excellent business facilities.

Located within 10 minutes from the RDS, the Stillorgan Park Hotel is offering packages from €65 per person sharing during the Horse Show, including ticket to the show and complimentary transfers to the RDS. For reservations, contact the hotel on 01 2001800, email reservations@stillorganpark.com or book online at www.stillorganpark.com

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DUBLIN’S Bloom festival, which ran from Thursday, June 2, to Monday, June 6, was a fantastic and successful event, organised by Bord Bia. Popular breakfast meat producers, Rudd’s, participated in the Field to Fork tent in the Bord Bia Food Village.

The glorious sunshine held up for most of the weekend, which helped to bring out the crowds in their thousands.

For the duration of the bank holiday weekend, Rudd’s ran a promotion in conjunction with their newly-launched Facebook page, where customers received a complimentary Rudd’s

Kate Bush: A return to her 90s’ releases

Model Alison Canavan with Jessica Austin, Lauren Connolly and David Austin

SEE MUSIC PAGE 23

14 GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

Locks will get totally luscious with Aussie W E can all carry around a bit too much baggage at times, whether it’s in our handbags or our emotions. Now ladies, that’s quite enough to be lugging around without the thought of a heavyweight conditioner adding to the burden of follicle flatness. Aussie girls know that they should never let things get heavy, not even their hair!

And now you can have all the goodness of your favourite Aussie post-shampoo moisture boost with an extra pickme-up! The lightweight formula will ensure your hair doesn’t fall flat, leaving you with lusciously light locks that are rich and bouncy. This is thanks to a combination of lightweight conditioning ingredients specifically designed not to weigh hair down.

• Lusciously Light 3 Minute Miracle Reconstructor: Aussie’s hero intensive conditioner

has the sweet smell of Safflower Seed Oil. It soothes and smoothes and in record time too, because we know you’ve got better things to do ...

• Lusciously Light Mega Instant Conditioner: A great one for your gym bag, overnight bag, or just in your shower for everyday conditioning action! This Aussie gem’s a tried-and-tested musthave.

• Lusciously Light Colour Mate Conditioner: Give coloured hair the daily VIP treatment it deserves. It tenderly conditions and helps protect coloured hair, leaving highlights looking hot and all over colour positively smouldering.

• Lusciously Light Luscious Long Conditioner: Keep long hair in check with this daily conditioning treat – with eucalyptus extract in the list of ingredients it’s a stimulating experience too.

• Lusciously Light Miracle Moist Conditioner: After cleansing your hair with Miracle Moist Shampoo, hit your hair with some miraculously light moisturisation.

• Lusciously Light Frizz Miracle Conditioner: You won’t be able to resist swishing your newly silky locks the first

time you use this wonder conditioner.

• Lusciously Light 3 Minute Miracle Frizz Remedy: A daily frizzfighting product to work wonders at putting you in control. Sometimes your hair needs that extra light boost - and this is it!

•Lusciously Light Aussome Volume Conditioner: This conditioner, whisked up with extracts of Australian hops, laughs in the face of lifeless locks and turns up the volume and body.

Seriously, what a charmer!

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Aussie conditioners have a combination of lightweight conditioning ingredients specifically designed not to weigh hair down

Get longer, curvier-looking lashes in the blink of an eye GIVE your lashes the appearance of up to four times more volume, with new Big & Curvy Waterproof Mascara from The Body Shop.

This mascara is waterproof, tearproof and smudge-proof. Not only is it perfect for water babes, you can wear it for any momentous and happy occasion and feel confident that you won’t be captured on-camera with mascara streaks!

Create bigger, curvier-looking lashes and boost your confidence, with Big & Curvy Waterproof Mascara from The Body Shop RRP: €16.50.

Waterproof Mascara you can look and feel fabulous, drawing attention to your eyes effortlessly in the ‘‘blink of an eye’’.

And it’s ophthalmologist tested!

Volume

The secret to lashings of volume and full-bodied waterproof curl lies in the mascara’s innovative sculpting brush and waterproof formulation.

The advanced brush loads and sculpts lashes, coating them from root to tip, for full-bodied volumising curves that last.

Developed by mascara experts, this mascara with its fibre-twist brush gives the optimum boost of volume.

Go for a swim, work out at the gym, dance in the rain, or let your emotions overflow at a wedding or other happy occasion, confident that your look won’t be spoilt! Instead with new Big & Curvy

The Body Shop’s Big & Curvy Waterproof Mascara

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: ADVICE TO HELP PREPARE FOR A FUN SUMMER WITH CHILDREN AND PETS

Mothers have it tough – with kids and pets!

S A humane educator specialising in adult education, part of my programme specifically targets parents, and, in particular, mums who are trying to juggle a career, raise children and make time for the family pet.

Now, I don’t care what the experts say, ladies – nothing prepares you for the highs and lows that are part of the job description of being a mother.

It’s a complex journey, and the answers don’t miraculously fall at your feet!

When contemplating motherhood, I’ll bet that, like me, your expectations were high. Yes? That’s because we’re fed by a culture that shows motherhood to be a time of “bliss, joy and tranquillity”. Oh, purleese!

Well, not to worry girls – you’re not alone in your disorganised state; I’m with you, and I’m going to offer you some sisterly advice that I hope will help you out when it comes to planning some fun, supervised, summer activities for the kids and the pets.

A

Before I start, I want to remind you that all children should be monitored whilst playing with pets – particularly a toddler, who will view a pet as a small, moving cuddly toy, and will not be able to understand that hitting them, or pulling on their tail, will cause pain and/ or injury.

We’ll start with toddlers.

Young children love hide-and-seek games.

Hold up a sheet or towel so that your dog is hidden, and ask your toddler to pull the sheet aside, revealing your pet.

If your dog is a gentle pet, allow your toddler to smear a tasty treat, such as soft cheese, onto their fingers, and allow your pet to lick it off. (Please try this with your own fingers first, in case your pet’s nibbling gets too rough.)

If you feed your child in a high chair, allow him to drop some pet-friendly fresh vegetables for your pet to enjoy.

Restrict this to carrot sticks, unsalted cooked pasta, broccoli or apple slices without the pips.

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‘I’m going to offer you some sisterly advice that I hope will help you when it comes to planning fun, supervised, summer activities for the kids and the pets’

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For older children, encourage your child to throw a ball or favourite pet toy for your dog to retrieve. Alternatively, your child can blow bubbles for your dog to catch.

Make sure to buy a bubble kit that’s pet-friendly; available at all good pet stores. Using ordinary, home-made bubbles may cause a stomach upset if ingested by your pet.

Run with your dog on a lead and have your child “race” your dog to a designated finish line.

Get a toy water gun, or use the garden hose, and have your child spray small amounts of water a few feet away from your dog; moving the stream of water away in a zig-zag motion along the ground – your dog will love to chase this.

Keep a close eye for

signs your dog is no longer having fun, and stop this activity if so.

Hide a few doggy treats (near to the ground so that your dog can find them), and have your child and dog try to find them together.

For young teens, your teen should be encouraged to play ball games with your dog.

Enrol yourself, your teen and your dog into dog-training classes, especially obedience and agility, where many teens will enjoy the competitiveness, and it will also boost self-esteem for both teen and dog.

Have your teen read plenty of books, or search the internet for fun, safe ways to play and interact with your dog.

Never leave or expect your teen to be in charge of your pet outside of the

For time-pressed mums, looking after children and pets, is no walk in the park – however, a walk in the park with Rover and your children in tow is just one way to help the entire family – including your loved pet - bond and have fun together

safety of your home, as situations such as interactions with strange dogs can easily occur.

Sometimes – and I stress, sometimes – teens can become angry or direct negative reactions toward their pet if that pet destroys their personal items; so watch out for signs of aggression from both teen and pet.

It’s no secret that teens can be very busy young people and you, as their parent, will be forced to

compete for their love and attention – so imagine how the family dog feels!

Encourage your teen to spend some of his/her pocket money on doggy treats, and to take on the responsibility of cleaning out the dog’s bed etc.

Observe your dog and obtain feedback from the way he licks, cuddles or growls, scratches or runs away in response to your child/teen’s interactions.

Oh yes, ladies, I’ve no

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

doubt you’ll face many hours where you’ll wonder if you were cut out to be a mum at all, but, give yourself credit, grab a coffee, and write down all your good points, and forget about the negative ones, because, you know what?

You’re a great mum, and your kids are not so bad either!

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

16 GAZETTE 16 June 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day

They’re certainly feeling the out in Blackrock this week Actor Jack Walsh (Playing Leopold Bloom); Dail Ceann Comhairle, Sean Barrett TD; actress Norette Leahy (playing Mrs Breen) and TV Dragon, Bobby Kerr, were feeling the love this week as they attended an evening reception at the launch of a new website, www.iloveblackrock.ie. The site is aimed at promoting Blackrock, Co.Dublin. An initiative of the Blackrock Business Network, the website is part of a drive to highlight the town as a great place to do business as well as an exciting shopping and leisure destination. Details were also announced at the launch of a number of events that are being organised and hosted by the Blackrock Business Network, including Bloomsday celebrations, and an Animation Festival and Family Fun Day on Saturday and Sunday, August 27 and 28.

Gazette Contacts 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 News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@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.

Put the pedal to the... static bike! With B&Q B&Q has teamed up with Youth Work Ireland, its official charity partner, and arranged a cycling fundraising event in their stores, appropriately called B&Q Bike It! Staff from B&Q Swords have accepted the challenge and will be biking it for Youth Work Ireland between the hours of 10am and 6pm in the B&Q Swords store at Airside Retail Park, Swords, Co. Dublin. Children from the Swords Youth Service will be here to participate in the cycle and also collect donations on behalf of Youth Work Ireland.

Noeleen O’Gorman, from B&Q Swords said: “We are looking forward to participating in our B&Q Bike It! event and raising funds for such an important cause.”

Meanwhile, B&Q Liffey Valley will have a Management versus Staff distance race on a static bike. Staff can also place €1 donations to guess the total distance covered by the winning team.

DIARY Never to late to start again LAST week, we told the story of Dubliner Adrian Nolan, from Churchtown, and how he turned his life around by turning his dream about working with radio into a reality.

After 28 years of working in an international road transport company, Adrian decided to get back to the books at the age of 50, and study Fetac Level 5 and 6 in Radio Broadcast in Dun Laoghaire College of Further Education (DCFE).

He has since progressed to study a BA in Communications in DCU, and has just completed his first year there.

He will return to DCFE this September to teach the Fetac Level 5 Radio Production Module as an evening course for 20

weeks.

The module will introduce students to radio and interview techniques, and will give students a chance to gain experience in recording and performing live.

The communications student encourages anyone who is tired of their current career to consider pursuing their dream job.

The college details are Dun Laoghaire College of Further Education, Cumberland Road, Dun Laoghaire. You can contact the college by calling 01-2809676 or by emailing info@dlcfe.ie

Getting kids in Stitches THE search is on for unknown teenagers to act in a comedy horror film, Stitches.

Open auditions will take place in the offices of Tailored Films, 33 Pearse St, Dublin 2, from 10am until 7pm this coming Sunday, June 19, and the following Tues-

day, June 21, 10am-6pm.

Casting director Nick McGinley says that no experience is required and those auditioning should be aged between 16 and 18.

The feature film is written and will be directed by Conor McMahon, the acclaimed Irish director of Dead Meat.

And finally...

ST ATTRACTA’S JNS in Meadowbrook is inviting people to come on down and join them on Saturday for their Father’s Day summer fair from 2-4pm.

Kick off Father’s Day by testing dad’s football skills in their penalty shoot-out, have your picture taken with Shamrock Rover’s Hooperman, or why not try your luck in their fantastic raffle, or just browse their many stalls, including books, cakes, bric-abrac, toys and games.

All funds raised from the event will go towards the school building fund.

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazetteGAMING GAMING Wii’s lookin’ at U as Zelda hits 25 years AT THE E 3 Expo in Los Angeles earlier this month, Nintendo introduced a new concept for video games and home entertainment: Wii U, a new console that includes a controller with a 6.2-inch screen.

The company claims that, by adding a second screen to the living room, the system creates a multitude of new video game experiences, while offering families a variety of options to customise their entertainment.

Previously, video games played on a home console

have been confined to the TV and offered identical viewpoints to each player in a multi player environment.

Nintendo says that the new controller removes traditional gaming boundaries, creating a more dynamic and fluid gaming and entertainment experience.

After the console is launched, gamers will see firsthand the type of gaming experiences made possible by Wii U and the new controller.

In single-player games the new controller can display information on its screen that

does not appear on the TV. Also, the information and viewpoint can change in the new controller based on the orientation of its gyroscope.

In multiplayer games, the player using the new controller can have a different experience than those looking at the TV, offering a wide variety of competitive and cooperative opportunities.

In addition to the 6.2-inch screen, the new controller also features an accelerometer and a gyroscope, a rumble feature, an inward-facing camera, a microphone and speakers.

NINTENDO kicked off its E3 Expo Presentation by announcing a number of initiatives to celebrate the 25th anniversary of The Legend of Zelda. A remastered 3D version of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, launches for Nintendo 3DS on June 19, while Wii

Wii U combines motionsensing game play with the ability to support full HD graphics. Each Wii U console will be partnered with a new controller and can also use up to four additional Wii Remote™or Wii Remote Plus controllers. The system is also backward compatible and can play all Wii games and use

all Wii accessories. The Wii console has sold more than 86 million units globally and greatly expanded the overall audience for video games. Wii U aims to expand that audience even further.

Developers worldwide are already working on new games and experiences for the console.

owners will see the arrival of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, in the 2011 holiday season. Additionally, Nintendo announced a tour of orchestral concerts featuring music from the beloved franchise. Additional commemorative activities will be announced at a later date.

18 GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs Skoda shows new Fabia sport SKODA is showcasing the Fabia vRS 2000 design concept this summer in Germany at the GTI Treffen. The Fabia vRS 2000 concept car has been developed and built specifically for the GTITreffen. Drawing on the Fabia Super 2000 rally car, Skoda’s designers have created an original roadster pursuing a single goal - dynamism and the joy of sporty driving. Based on the Skoda Motorsport’s broad rally car, the Fabia vRS 2000 offers plenty of room for four occupants to climb in and sit in the car with ease. Besides the great view, the sharply sloping windscreen provides a constant supply of fresh air and a sense of being at one with nature.

The new concept Skoda Fabia vRS2000

FORD DEVELOPING NEW SMALLER ENGINES : BRIDGESTONE Ford is developing its smallest engine ever - a 1.0litre three-cylinder engine with EcoBoost technology. Ford says the engine will offer output comparable to a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine.

Horsepower and torque ratings were not immediately available.

The engine is expected to make its way into smaller Ford vehicles in the coming years.

Engineers in Britain developed the engine and it is likely to be marketed heavily in Europe. The engine uses turbo-charging, direct injection and twin-independent variable camshaft timing.

PRESTIGE, SPORTS AND CLASSIC CARS: THE inaugural Prestige, Sports and

Classic Car Sale and S h owc a s e , a m i x of the world’s most luxurious cars, combined with favourite classic cars, is set to take place on Saturday and Sunday, June 25 and 26 at the National Show Centre, Swords, near Dublin Airport.

The event promises to be a car enthusiast’s dream, with a broad range of vehicles onshow, from supercars and luxury vehicles to SUVs and classics.

Not only will visitors get to see these incredible cars up close, but many of the cars will also be on sale, with car dealers on hand to talk through the various models with visitors.

The National Show Centre, Swords, is located just minutes from Dublin Airport, the M1 and M50.

Tickets for the event can be purchased at the door.

Skoda is offering a thrifty petrol engine for the Octavia that’s almost comparable to diesel efficiency for an entry price that’s much more competitive at €19,710 before delivery charges

Skoda downsizes engine for the better Skoda has a new petrol engine option for the Octavia. MICHAEL MORONEY takes a test drive

KODA has opted for some smart thinking by fitting the new 1.2-turbo petrol engine to the Octavia, giving it petrol-engine smoothness coupled with power and fuel economy. And, as the car is very affordable, I thought that it was well worth a test drive.

The 1.2-litre engine might appear underwhelming in terms of its size, but it’s far from that in terms of performance.

For smoothness of driving, Skoda had matched the engine with its smooth DSG automatic -type gearbox making the car an absolute pleasure to drive.

T h e 1. 2 - l i t r e T S I

S

SPECS: Skoda Octavia 1.2 TSI Top speed: 192 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 10.8 secs Economy: 16.9 km/ litre (5.9 l/100km) CO2 emissions: 134g/km Road Tax Band: B (€156) Entry Price: €19,710

engine develops a healthy 105bhp, so there’s plenty of power on demand.

That’s the same level of power that you get from the Skoda 1.6-TDI diesel version. And, while the torque figure for the petrol car is marginally lower than the diesel model, it can still better the diesel power in terms of accel-

eration.

This 1.2-litre TSI model is marginally faster from stop, with a 0 to 100km/ hr acceleration figure of just 10.8 seconds.

While it’s not at diesel CO2 levels just yet, with a figure of 134g CO2, it’s not far off many diesel cars, and that’s with the DSG gearbox fitted.

It matches the CO2 output of the 1.6-TDI versions, with the DSG system. So, when it comes to this new Skoda Octavia option, you can have your cake and eat it.

This engine can achieve this higher efficiency because the petrol is injected directly into the engine. This

gives a higher compression ratio, which increases the heat efficiency and fuel efficiency of the engine. The fuel economy figure at 16.9 km/litre (5.9 l/100km) is slightly lower than 1.6-litre diesel cars.

The 1.6-litre Skoda Octavia diesel is rated to be about 20% more fuelefficient but the buying price difference is almost €3,500. And that’s a lot of petrol over the lifetime of the car.

For short distance drivers, this new Skoda has strong appeal. The big bonus, I think, is the DSG gearbox; don’t buy an Octavia without at least test driving it; you’ll

be quickly convinced about its merits.

The new Skoda Octavia 1.2-TSI has all of the features of the standard model, including remote central locking, front electric windows and the ESP stability programme for added safety.

The Octavia is well equipped in terms of safety features, with driver and passenger airbags, side airbags and driver seat-belt warning lights.

It’s been a while since it was tested in the Euro NCAP crash test programme, 2004 in fact, so it needs an upgrade from its 4-star rating back then. Maybe we’ll get that soon.

Two weeks to go to the end of scrappage scheme THERE’S just two weeks to go to the end of the Government Car Scrappage Scheme and many motorists are expected to try and avail of last-minute deals.

So far to the end of May this year, some 9,630 cars were sold under the scheme. On top of the 17,272 cars in 2010, this gives an idea of how many have

responded to the offer, which, in most cases, was topped up by a manufacturer deal.

New car value has never been better and there are only days left to avail of the offers. Commenting on the figures, the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) director general, Alan Nolan said: “We predicted that

10,000 scrappage cars would be sold this year. We’re not far off that mark and should exceed the figure by the time the scheme ends on June 30. It’s important to recognise what scrappage has achieved. Even after the Government discounts, over €86 million has been generated in VAT and VRT for the Govern-

ment, so the scheme has made significant revenue for the Government.

“Of course, the main benefit is for the motorist who has got a fantastic deal under the scheme and, with an environmental focus, they are also benefiting from cheaper running costs too.”

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Mixing up some luxury with real family fun The Imperial Hotel packages for a truly Corkonian experience

THE Queen’s visit to Cork proved to be a huge success and, following in her Majesty’s footsteps, the Imperial Hotel in the heart of Cork City has introduced a great new package to give visitors a truly Corkonian experience.

Enjoy three night’s city centre accommodation in the charming opulence of the four-star hotel, with a full Irish breakfast each morning. Dine like a king or queen, with dinner on one evening in the Imperial’s own newly-refurbished Pembroke Seafood Bar and Grill, plus a lunch filled with local produce at the Farmgate Restaurant inside the place that really captured HRH’s heart, the Old English Market.

Next, sit back and enjoy a drive around all the main sights of the area from the Cork Open Top City Bus Tour, before being pampered with a wash and blow dry in the hotel’s Aveda hair salon, as well as access to the Escape Spa. As well as a box of chocolates in your room on arrival, you will also receive a royal invitation to return to the Imperial for a complimentary night on a later occasion.

This package is only valid for July and August, from €189 per person sharing, subject to availability.

For more information, contact the Imperial Hotel, Cork on 021 4274040 or visit www.flyn nhotels.com

A stay in Europe’s first hotel to offer a women-only floor PLANNING a girl’s only weekend? Then make Copenhagen the city of choice and book a room at the newly-opened Hotel Bella Sky Comwell, Europe’s first hotel to offer a women-only floor.

Women-only areas in hotels are increasingly popular around the world, but this is a first for Denmark, and also Europe.

Hotel Bella Sky Comwell in Copenhagen, the largest hotel in Scandinavia with 814 rooms, had no doubts when it came to reserving an entire floor for women only. The hotel management asked a number of influential and well-travelled Danish women whether they felt there was a requirement for their own floor, and over half of the women surveyed would prefer to stay on a women-only floor. As a result, the bedrooms and bathrooms have been designed specifically with women in mind.

Guests of the special Bella Donna floor at the Bella Comwell in Copenhagen join other guests for meals, so rest assured, even if you’re on a girls’ only break, you still might bump into a handsome stranger over breakfast.

CORMAC CURTIS

OK. This week I’m wearing my dad hat again – and why not? After all, Father’s Day is just around the corner, so I can be as opinionated as I want to be, for a change!

This time last year, I was due to spend a weekend at a well-known family hotel in the south-east with my family, during which, in honour of the aforementioned Father’s Day, I was to enjoy a little dad time – some golf, a massage, even an hour or two with the weekend newspapers and a quiet pint - heaven.

On the morning we were due to head down there, my wife, Susan, who was in the middle of starting up her own business (in the throes of a recession, go figure) was called away at the last minute. So, I found myself heading down the N11 to spend Father’s Day with my two young daughters, just the three of us.

Needless to say, any chance of a little dad time disappeared quicker than you can say ‘golf clubs.’

To cut a long story s h o r t , my we e ke n d turned out to be a surprisingly relaxed affair, as the hotel, famed for its familyfriendly hospitality, managed to arrange our time in a way that afforded me plenty of opportunities

to unwind while the kids were engaged in other activities.

The point is – with the right service, anything is possible.

So, fast forward a year(ish), and this time with both parents accounted for, we are heading towards the wonderful town of Kenmare for a few days of family fun at the Sheen Falls Lodge.

accolades, including multiple honours from AA, Conde Nast, Relais & Chateaux, Zagat, Georgina Campbell’s Jameson Guide and the Bridgestown guide.

So, I was more than willing to give it a try.

The first time my wife and I visited here happened to be the very same weekend in 2009 – the weekend of the Heineken Cup Final. And, just like

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‘I had visited the Sheen Falls before, and I can say that it is simply one of the finest luxury hotels in the country’

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To be honest, when the offer of a family weekend at the Sheen Falls was first mooted – I wasn’t entirely convinced it would work all that well; we had, in the past, spent a few days in the same neck of the woods at another luxury hotel, but they simply didn’t have the experience with kids and a family’s requirements to make it work.

Don’t get me wrong, I had visited the Sheen Falls before, and I can say without fear of contradiction, that it is simply one of the finest luxury hotels in the country.

It boasts an extraordinary list of awards and

in 2009, the boys in blue, Leinster, were set for a dramatic climax to the season.

Was I a little disappointed to be missing another huge moment for Leinster? I was gutted.

When it comes to my allegiance to Leinster, well, let’s just say I’m no stranger to blue and gold face paint!

But, that said, if you’re going to miss a cup final, there really is nowhere else I would rather be than this hotel, nestled away in a quiet and most beautiful corner of Kerry.

The real test of a quality hotel, however, is how

well the staff can handle a crisis.

After about an hour on the road from Dublin, my four-year-old, Cici, began to feel unwell.

From there, most of drive was taken up with the little one either sleeping or getting sick.

Needless to say, we had a fair amount of dirty laundry when we reached the hotel.

It was a genuine relief to be welcomed by such understanding people.

T he dir ty clothes were whisked away to be cleaned for us, and, because Cici had to go straight to bed, the restaurant menu was delivered to the room for me to peruse at my leisure as my wife and eldest daughter, Becky, went downstairs for a relaxed dinner.

What can I say? I would love to describe my meal as room service unlike anything I had ever experienced, but what I enjoyed was fine dining served to my room without even the slightest compromise.

You can’t describe a starter of lobster prepared three ways – smoked, grilled and tempura fried with a lime chilli sorbet - followed by a main course of caramelised scallops with a salad of haricot vert beans and a plum tomato tartare and chive olive oil, as room

The luxurious Sheen Falls Lodge, above, and, opposite, fun for all the family with mud surfing at the Eclipse Adventure Centre in nearby Kenmare

service. This was so much more than that.

After the long and eventful drive earlier in the day, to see my youngest comfortably tucked in to her bed as I tucked into this stunning meal, and knowing that Susan was enjoying a grown-up dining experience with her very-grown-up five-yearold downstairs, really did leave me in a state of incredibly content satisfaction.

After a perfect night’s sleep, we got tucked in to breakfast downstairs.

One very hungry daughter, who was feeling much better, put away more than one bowl of rice crispies, while the other discovered, much to her delight, the wonders of pancakes and maple syrup.

Eggs, sausage, bacon, pastries, cold meats, bread, fresh coffee and tea were enjoyed as we prepared for a day of family activi-

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 21

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs

Going back in time to one of Ireland’s most lavish Georgian homes, now a country house hotel

Top, Becky and Cici enjoy the kid-friendly dining room, while, above, Cici gets to grips with her trusty steed

THREE-NIGHT FAMILY FUN AT THE FALLS This package costs €999 and includes: overnight accommodation in a deluxe room, complimentary accommodation for up to two children sharing with their parents; full Irish breakfast; transfers and full-day access to the Kids Camp at The Eclipse Centre, including lunch.

This package is available Monday-Friday (weekends on request), July 4 and August 26. A five-night package is available for €1,422 in total, which includes a complimentary night.

For further information, telephone 064 6641600 or visit www. sheenfallslodge.ie or join them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ sheenfallslodge. ties at the nearby Eclipse Adventure Centre (www. eclipseireland.com).

The rest of the morning and afternoon brought together a number of families staying at the hotel together for an array of activities that even the heavy rain couldn’t put a damper on.

To start, the group was treated to a session of laughter yoga, something that was new to even the most experienced guru of the alternative therapies

in our group.

While this was going on, some of the younger ones, mine included, were treated to pony rides – delight doesn’t even begin to describe the feelings this brought to their little faces.

Before the rides, the kids were brought to each of the stables and introduced to all of the horses and ponies, and, after a talk about safety, and how to approach the animals, it was off

to fetch riding helmets and to mount their trusty steeds.

I don’t recall ever seeing a happier group of children – even if the rain didn’t let up for a second.

After a cup of hot coffee, the group headed off around the centre’s grounds for a quick orienteering session before we were treated to mud surfing! An extraordinary activity that involves riding on a modified surf-

board that is dragged through the mud by a quad bike! A must for the young, the young-at-heart and the brave-hearted.

Tired, wet, cold and weary, we all tucked in to a well-deserved lunch back at the hotel before Becky and Cici dragged me to the swimming pool, until about 10 minutes before the Heineken Cup kicked off.

I must admit, that trailing the Northampton Saints by 16 points left me wondering how I was going to find a way to enjoy the rest of the weekend – but I have a feeling the hotel manager put a quick call in to the Leinster coach at half time to provide the dads of our group with the most incredible comeback of all time, as Leinster turned the game around to win.

Now that dad was back in jovial form, even if my delighted outbursts in the

second half did scare the bejesus out of the kids, we got to tuck in to an incredible BBQ-style meal overlooking the river bank, just as the rain cleared for the evening.

The BBQ experience is something the hotel is offering throughout the summer, even to nonresidents, and I have to recommend it if you find yourself in the area.

All-in-all, this was a weekend to remember.

We spend so much time these days arranging family holidays and breaks laden-down with buckets, spades and everything else, it is nice to know that there is at least one place that, when the budget allows for it, offers a wonderful and unique mix of grown-up luxury and incredible, fun-filled family memories that won’t be soon forgotten, with the right staff and attitude to really make it work.

SITUATED at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains is Ballyfin, which has long been admired as one of the most lavish Georgian homes in Ireland.

It is a small country house hotel that looks set to make its mark in Ireland and beyond.

Recent renovations carried out at Ballyfin were undertaken with the aim of returning it as closely as possible to how it functioned when it was built.

The house’s magnificent interiors are decorated with Irish art and antiques from around the world, in the same spirit of refined elegance that the early house reflected in the 1820s. For today’s guest, though, formality is blended with an informal relaxed and easy-going approach.

With just 15 bedrooms, the new hotel really has all the flavour of a grand private house.

Step outdoors to enjoy 600 acres of private parkland, a 28-acre lake, ancient woods, follies and grottoes. The hotel also features two beauty treatment rooms, a gym and an indoor pool.

22 GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Aoife Long, La Sirena, Mexican restaurant

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS CAN I RUN AWAY TO THE STATES FROM MY €5,000 DEBT? Q – I HAVE a long-term €5,000 credit card debt, and have been unable to make any dent on it as I am earning little income. I have also just received my visa to work in the States. What happens if I don’t pay – will they come after me in the US? Tommy – Inchicore A - THERE is a certain element of irresponsibility creeping in here. You did, after all, spend the money yourself and, while I empathise with your income issues here in Ireland, to completely renege on your debt now is not only morally unfair, but may come back to haunt you in later years.

Let me explain. The Irish Credit Bureau (ICB), based in Clonskeagh, Dublin 14, has a membership of nearly 100 financial institutions that record all their credit transactions in the ICB – slow or missed payments, legal judgements etc are all recorded.

That “missed payment” stays on record for five years, while judgments are there for life!

Just remember, every time a loan is requested, the first thing the lender does is check with the ICB on the borrower’s credit history. Simple, really: if you have a bad record, you don’t get the loan.

Plus, if you apply for the same loan with numerous lenders, those lenders can see the enquiries coming in, and know that you are doing the rounds looking for funding.

Therefore, when and if you come back from the States, and if you look to borrow for whatever purpose, there may be a little surprise for you from that lender, as I am sure the credit card debt – while it will be written off – will have a judgment put against you, and placed on record.

Those of you who are unsure of your credit history can contact ICB, send a cheque for €6 and request your own credit report.

So, the best advice? Do your best to try and honour your commitments – what goes round, comes round.

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

Celebrating the best of fine Mexican fare AOIFE Long, from La Sirena, Dublin’s newest Mexican restaurant, grew up in Malahide.

She went to Loreto College, St Stephen’s Green, and then on to study advertising in DIT Aungier Street, where her intention was to become a copywriter.

Her favourite food is, of course, Mexican. This love affair started when she was a waitress and tequila girl in Judge Roy Beans in the 90s to get her through college.

Her love of food began when she spent some time travelling around, where different cultures of food inspired her to become more involved in the food industry.

Aoife decided to move back to Malahide after living abroad and in Dublin city centre for a few years.

She says that she and her partner always felt there was a gap in the market for a contemporary Mexican restaurant, combining old-world traditional Mexican flavours and authenticity with new-world technique and modern presentation.

La Sirena strives to dispel the misconceptions of over-spiced and stodgy “TexMex” cuisine by showcasing fresh, sustainable, and flavourful dishes that are rooted in authentic Mexican culture, and rich

YOUR LOCAL PAPER, YOUR LOCAL NEWS!

complex salsas and sauces, using imported Chiles, spices, and herbs directly from Mexico.

To complement the Mexican pantry, La Sirena only uses the finest locallyproduced meats, seafood, and vegetables, says Aoife.

Q&A Q: What sport can you play?

A: I run, go to the gym and

Q: What was your first job?

A: Tequila girl in Judge Roy

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

A: The television show, Snog

Beans

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: I remember being 15, very happy, and proud that I earned my own money

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: Middle-2010, although it was Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Seeing a full restaurant with lots of happy faces after eating the food

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

A: I leave the cooking to the professionals

Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com

culinary history.

The restaurant showcases specialities from the northern regions of Baja to the southern states of Oaxaca and the Yucatan, and every where in-between.

The chefs prepare everything in-house, from sour cream (crema) to delicate and

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

A: My own boss

in planning for some time

TELL US YOUR NEWS

Aoife Long, La Sirena Mexican restaurant

play tennis – very badly!

Marry Avoid

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

A: David Norris, of course Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: A serious mixture of music for me; lots of heavy, ambient, jazzy stuff ... you name it - I’ve got it

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Pablo Picante, Boojum, Wahaca and Meztizo London, to name but a few

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Nothing in particular, but,

Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update?

A: Starter: Alambres de Chor-

once Ireland are involved, I’ll watch it

izo, slow-cooked, black bean

and chorizo stew with adobobraised pork over golden corn chilaquiles, topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese and Pico de Gallo; Main: Tampico surf and turf platter grilled 6oz. beef fillet with jumbo prawns in mild Chipotle Glaze, corgette batons in lime and garlic butter, and Queso Dobladita – served with Salsa Guajillo

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Anything Mexican, obviously

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

A: Enda Kenny; get him drunk on margaritas and tequila and see what he is really like. He can’t really be as stiff as he looks – or can he?

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Unfortunately, due to opening a new business, I am not spending at the moment, but

when I do spend, I am a big internet shopper – clothes, shoes, bags and even cookbooks

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: About 30 Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Last year, we went to France, and I was expecting delicious food every day. Unfortunately, I did not get one good meal.

Being a big foodie, I was so disappointed! It was very unlike my other visits to France, where I have had the most delicious meals

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Sun, sea and a good book Q: What would be your dream job?

A: I have my dream job Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: Travel, chill, relax and enjoy my family

16 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC Alt-folk duo, The Pierces, come of age at last Q ROB HEIGH

After six years Kate Bush has returned with re-recorded classics on Director’s Cut

REVIEW: KATE BUSH RETURNS TO HER 90S’ RELEASES

Back to the future with Director’s Cut Q ROB HEIGH

THE ever-glorious Kate Bush returns to her mid90s’ canon to refresh the palette for the music yet to come...

Awaited like the return of a comet, Kate Bush has kept her legions of fans on tenterhooks in recent years.

After the initial burst of activity that saw her release four albums in four years, to four albums in 20 after 1985’s epic Hounds Of Love, anything that resembles a note on record is greeted with massive anticipation.

So, six years after Aerial, another masterpiece in her canon, and in the absence of new material, Kate has returned to her 90s’ releases, The Sensual World and The Red

Shoes, in order to address the “hard-edged sound” of the original digital recordings and re-make the songs the way her original vision saw them.

Some tracks are entirely re-recorded - This Woman’s Work, Rubberband Girl and Moments of Pleasure - but each of the 11 tracks has new vocals, and the deeper and more mature sound of that unique instrument is apparent from the first “Yes” on Flower Of The Mountain.

With re-recorded drum and bass parts, there is something unquestionably warmer about these re-recordings, and the new versions of Lily, The Red Shoes and Top Of The City are - heresy warning here - better than their original versions to these ears, at

least. Whether the world needed another version of Deeper Understanding is questionable though.

A deep love for the original recordings might hinder some from entirely embracing this approach, but, honestly, anything with Kate’s presence is to be treasured.

The box set edition features remastered editions of the original recordings of Sensual World and Red Shoes, and it’s part of the joy of listening, to return to these and comparing their original incarnations with their new, retooled versions.

The creative process has apparently inspired Kate and there are, apparently, recording sessions going on in her home studios right now. Of course, given her attention to detail and artis-

tic approach, it could be another six years before we see any new material.

But if Director’s Cut has awakened Kate’s muse once again, it has to be hailed as a wonderful thing.

The Sensual Walk

Kate fans in Dublin may be interested in attending the fourth Sensual Walk in Howth on Saturday, June 18 from 2pm.

T h i s e ve n t i s a n excuse for fans of Kate Bush, James Joyce, or otherwise, to celebrate Bloomsday with a stroll in one of Dublin’s most spectacular landscapes, which has particular relevance this year with the re-recording of The Sensual World, with the Joyce estate’s blessing to use the original text from

Ulysses on Flower Of The Mountain.

Attendees will meet up at the Howth Head car park before walking to the summit of Howth Head for some music, peaches and seed-cake, followed by a leisurely cliff-walk down into the village of Howth for refreshments. The evening part of the event will be held in Odessa in Dublin City Centre, where the music and craic continues.

Acts who will be performing in the evening will include Captain A, Mike Stevens of Groom and the Lie-ins, Richer than Astronauts, Jeroen Saegeman of Walpurgis Family and the Prairie Dawgs For more information, contact sean@katebushnews.com or see www. katebushnews.com.

BROOKLYN based duo, The Pierces, hit their breakthrough stride with their fourth album, You & I. Having built up a legacy in the alt-folk scene since early 2000, the Pierces’ lack of success was inversely proportional to their obvious talent and appeal.

Now, with their fourth album having the backing of Coldplay’s Guy Berryman as coproducer with Rik Simpson, who has previously been at the mixing desk for Jay-Z, Kasabian and PJ Harvey, the Pierces look set to achieve the breakout success their delicate, melodic tunes deserve.

Raised on Joni Mitchell and Paul Simon, Allison and Catherine Pierce have a strong melodic sense that weaves through all of the tracks on You & I. There are echoes of Aimee Mann’s band, Til Tuesday, and The Byrds, in the arrangements and harmonies that wrap you up and hold you entranced as you listen.

It’s not often that I put an album on repeat on my generic mp3 player of choice, but I did, and, before I knew it, I’d listened to You & I straight through twice.

When things take on a slower tempo, on tracks like The Good Samaritan, the Pierces’ Alabama roots come through, their southern drawl seeps through the harmonies and give the sound a sun-bleached Americana feel.

Elsewhere, the music resembles a late 60s’ Atlantic Records sound, like the best moments of Dusty In Memphis, and a fine affinity with the smooth tones of classic 70s’ American rock like Rumours-era Fleetwood Mac. There’s clearly a powerful depth of musical heritage at work here, and the Pierces don’t hesitate to let their influences inform their direction in every song, light and shade in every twist and turn.

You & I is shot through with delicious melodies and laser-sharp harmonies that have you hooked. This is where the Pierces take off.

Brooklyn based duo, The Pierces

24 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT THE HELIX 01 700 7000 Don McLean

WORLD-famous musician and singer-songwriter Don McLean will play The Helix soon, bringing the voice of a true legend to Dublin. Although bestknown for his timeless tracks, American Pie, and Vincent (Starry Starry Night), McLean has a wide-ranging body of work, with songs that have delighted listeners around the world for decades, and all presented in style by one of America’s most charming musical artists – and legends. Don plays The Mahony Hall at 8pm on Friday, June 17, with tickets priced at €45/41.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Tarry Flynn

THE Gazette is still presenting the life of a 1930s’ Cavan farmer for your consideration, with the life of the poet and dreamer about to conclude in this 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. This great production runs until Saturday, June 18, with admission at €18, €15.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 DLR Glasthule Opera Festival

THE Pavilion builds upon its notable cultural credentials by hosting DLR Glasthule Opera, who are presenting a number of favourite operas at the theate. Superb Irish singers will present Verdi’s La Traviata, and Mozart’s The Magic Flute, building on the success of the opera company’s previous highly-popular productions. For full details of these productions, which run until Sunday, June 19, and with admission at €42/45, see paviliontheatre.ie.

Man 1 Bank O FOR those who prefer more easygoing entertainment, The Pavilion presents Man 1 Bank O, the amusing and amazing – but true – story of how one man deposited a $95,093.35 junk-mail cheque into his bank account, as a joke, and the saga that ensued after his bank cleared it.

Described as an unbelievable David vs Goliath comedy (which happens to be true), the international smash-hit show by Patrick Combs plays on Wednesday, June 22, at 8pm, with tickets from €12.80 to €18.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Zocorro Rose of Tralee

THE classic, timeless – and some would say, dull – world of The Rose of Tralee is shaken down by this tale of a would-be Spanish Rose, Zocorro, who’s determined to talk about loving children, working in hospitals, and doing and saying whatever she needs to in order to claim the crown, and win a Volvo. However, Spanish passion and a flair with the facts may not be quite enough to see her take the prize, with some unexpected prizes along the way ... Having enjoyed great success and acclaim at a variety of festivals, this satirical alternative look at the much-loved Irish institution is sure to be a hit at Draiocht, where it runs on Friday, June 17 and Saturday, June 17, at 2pm and 8.15pm. Tickets are priced at €14/€10 conc.

The Illegals STAYING with Draiocht, The Illegals are set to shake off any weekend sleepiness with their tribute to The Eagles and Fleetwood Mac, featuring Eurovision singer Niamh Kavanagh. A busy band will join Niamh in creating an unforgettable night for fans of these American giants, showcasing the astounding skill of this memorable tribute band. The show starts at 8pm in the Main Auditorium on Saturday, June 18 at 8pm, with tickets costing €20/€16 conc.

Perhaps Hal Jordan (Ryan Reynolds) would be less inclined to take the mysterious, floating magic ring of a dying space alien if he thought of the consequences of joining an intergalactic police force of do-gooders facing an all-powerful enemy ...

Not a torching movie Kate says you won’t find any moving thoughts on the human condition in this very silly, and popcorn-light, superhero film Q KATE CROWLEY

REGULAR readers – oh, please, let there be such a thing – will be well aware that, for some weeks now, I’ve been championing the return of Mel Gibson to cinema screens, via his meisterpiece, The Beaver – the haunting tale of an emotionally traumatised man, who communicates through the world via a beaver hand puppet, and – Wait! Come back!

Tragically, although Mel’s release finally jimmies open the back door of a few cinemas this week, ready to sneak onto a few unwary screens here and there (possibly closely followed by the Four Horsemen of the Apocalpyse), quality control issues – and the fact that it’s a Mel Gibson film about a beaver hand puppet – force me to turn reluctantly instead towards The Green Lantern.

Peering through the

FILM OF THE WEEK: The Green Lantern +++ (12A) 114 mins Director: Martin Campbell Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Tim Robbins, Peter Sarsgaard, Angela Bassett, lots of alien Green Lanterns

OUR VERDICT: FOR once, Kate almost enjoys a film, as she finds The Green Lantern to be so ridiculously silly, she can’t quite dislike it as much as it possibly deserves. So, as far as superhero films about men in tights battling all-powerful, planet-conquering superaliens – who, err, can still be defeated by a puny human – this Lantern’s all right, and will probably light up box office receipts well enough, for a while ...

gloom with my stylish new glasses – which don’t remotely resemble two coke bottles tied together with rusty wire, regardless of what my daughter, dear Crowleyetta, insists – I spy a well-polished tribute to the iconic character of the same name.

(Or, so I’m told, as I’d easily get Batman and Superman’s capes mixed up in the wash, and not really know any better.)

A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away ... the Green Lanterns were created; an intergalactic police force of do-gooders, formed to keep watch

over all the intelligent planets, checking that the indicator lights of any passing spaceships were working, and generally keep an eye out for any bad guys/aliens.

Harnessing the natural forces of the universe to do good, via their magic green rings (I’m paraphrasing, folks), the Lanterns are ever-vigilant, and entirely alien – until, that is, trouble breaks out, courtesy of an intergalactic baddie, and a mortally injured Green Lantern crashlands on modern Earth.

Hal Jordan (Rey-

nolds) is chosen by the dying Green Lantern’s ring as his replacement; the plucky pilot being selected as being good and worthy enough to join the vast ranks of the Lanterns.

It’s not long before Hal’s hot-footed it across the galaxy, courtesy of his amazing new ring – and his natty new Green Lantern – to the Lanterns’ home planet, where, as the first human to be accepted into the ranks, he has to prove himself.

Under the ever-watchful guise of ... err ... um... sorry folks, I’m generally hopeless at remembering aliens’ names, so let’s just say Mark Strong and Geoffrey Rush – Hal commences his training to be a new Lantern.

However, for every force in the universe, there is an opposing one, and the Lanterns’ newest bright-eyed recuit has joined the ranks just as their greatest enemy has

arisen – Parallax, a swirling, bad-tempered mass of negativity (not entirely unlike Mr Crowley, when asked to cut the grass on Sundays).

Not only that, but a pesky scientist back on Earth (Sarsgaard) is also creating trouble, thanks to his unusual new powers granted by the crashlanded Green Lantern’s wreckage.

So, despite being an amateur, Hal has to find the power within to rise to the challenge and – well, you can figure the rest out yourselves.

Forget any thoughts of lashings and lashings of angst – oh, the angst!

– which have soaked too many films lately like cheap vinegar, as The Green Lantern is entirely, blatantly and enthusiastically silly.

I can’t take to the foolishness of an expressive beaver, but this film’s silliness is on a whole new – and acceptable – level ...

16 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25

Microsoft’s smart update plans ADAM MAGUIRE

IN A world increasingly dominated by tablets and smartphones, Windows 7 – the current operating system from Microsoft – is starting to look a little old-fashioned.

As a result, it should be no surprise to learn that a successor is on the way, and initial details and features have recently been made public.

What is it?

An operating system is the software layer that lets you use a computer without knowing complex code – basically, it’s what creates the icons and graphics you see on-screen all the time.

so will work on tablets, as well as desktop computers.

Windows 8 – as it is called, for now – is the one Microsoft will launch next.

It will follow in the footsteps of the likes of Windows 98, XP, and Windows 7, and will be heavily inspired by touch-based devices that are on the rise today – designed to be used by hand gestures just as much as by keyboard and mouse, and

What does that mean?

While you might be used to those little icons and loads of menus at the moment, Windows 8 will use bigger tiles as part of its main menu.

This will mean that applications will sit like squares and rectangles on the screen, and will often show off live information, such as details of updates on Facebook, or news stories from your favourite websites.

The idea is that you, as a user, can customise the tiles so it shows information you want to see at a glance. Basically, the device will work more like a smartphone does now – specifically, Windows’

own Phone 7 platform.

So, the old desktop format is gone?

Not completely. Microsoft realises that some people like the way things are, so it will have the old interface underneath – for those who wish to can stick with that, if they want.

When is it available?

There is no set date just yet, but predictions are that the platform will not debut for another year at least, most likely appearing before Christmas, 2012. Of course, a year is a long time in technology, and there is a lot here that could change in the meantime.

Indeed, a lot of Windows 7’s most ambitious features were reigned back before it launched,

and the same could happen here. That will only become clear when Windows 8 – or whatever it eventually becomes – is put on the shelves.

Vodafone 858 Smart As one of the neatest and smallest of Android phones to hit the market, the Vodafone 858 Smart is a great entry-level and child-friendly device.

With much of the smartphone market a bit of an arms race today, with screen sizes and processor speeds going up only, the Vodafone 858 Smart bucks the trend.

The device has a miniscule 2.8-inch screen, a tiny frame, and a fairly average bit of tech powering the whole thing.

That is not to suggest that everything about this device is second-class.

It runs on Android 2.2 (one of the newest versions of the software), has a fairly decent 2MP camera, and all the connectivity yo you ou would need, eed d, including Bluetooth and WiFi. But the he truth is that a at the smalll screen will be an issue for a lot of people.

It will be hard to text or type on if your fingers are in any way big, and viewing websites and pictures is not particularly easy if you are used to bigger devices.

However, if you fit that category, this phone is

not for you – it is really designed for the low-function and young market.

This is an entry-level device for Android, or something so for teens a n d tweens on a budget to use.

To that extent, this e does the d job, jo o bringing in n smartphone style ph h to a currently underserved und d area a of the market.

The Vodafone 858 Smart is available for €39.99 on pre-pay.

Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

GAZETTE

26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 16 June 2011

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16 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

ON THE ROAD AGAIN: Cian Curley on his comeback to the European Tour: Page 29

CYCLING: 98FM’S CLAIRE SOLAN PROMOTES WEEK OF BIKING AWARENESS IN CITY

Get on your bike for fitness and fun in Dublin sport@gazettegroup.com

NEXT week is National Bike Week, an intiative to try to get the country cycling, and with the Tour De France looming, the success of local cycling clubs and the very successful reception to the Dublin smart bikes initiative, Dublin seems to be the place to get on your bike, both for fitness and for competitiveness.

As part of National Bike Week, Wednesday,

June 22 is Dublin Bike to Work Day, and 98FM DJ Claire Solan is inviting all people working within the city to participate in a fun and free leisurely lunchtime cycle, which takes place at 1pm from Grand Canal Square.

More and more people are choosing to travel by bike into the city, with numbers increasing by one-third in the last ten years. Dublin City Council’s aim is to encourage all employers and employees

throughout the city to take part in this year’s event.

Speaking to GazetteSport last week, Claire said: “The initiative is a chance to take a bike onto the street on, hopefully, a sunny day, starting and finishing at Grand Canal Dock. For someone who might be commuting in the city, who is sat in an office and keen to do something lively, it’s a great idea. And it’s great to get back on a bike if you haven’t been on one

98FM’s Claire Solan at Grand Canal Dock at the launch of the National Bike Week

for years.”

The focus is also on the health benefits for participants, and it is reported that about 40% of commutes to work in Dublin are less than 5km, which most people could easily cycle this distance in about 20 minutes.

“Most people would be like me, driving short distances to get to work,” said Claire. “It’s not good for you, not good for your car, and it would be a saving in all manner of ways for you to cycle to work at least a few days in the week.

“There are new cycle lanes appearing all over the city, and there are moves to make the city more cycle-friendly.

“The Dublin smart bikes initiative is one of the most successful rollouts of the campaign across Europe. It is huge-

ly popular, so obviously, people are interested in cycling a bit more regularly. Cycling is good for the environment, good for fitness levels, and it doesn’t cost a thing” To register for the event, log on to www.dublincitycycling.ie.

28 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport GAA

Liam O’Neill turns the sod at Monastery Road. Pictures: Tommy Keogh GAA President-Elect Liam O’Neill arrives at Monastery Road with club chairman, Tony Delaney

Turning the sod

A new beginning for Towers EFYING the weather, Round Towers’ GAA Club have begun the process of establishing their new state-of-the-art and historic €750,000 Monastery Road development.

It was a momentous day in the club’s 127 year history, and marks the beginning of a new era for the delivery of sporting facilities for the community of Clondalkin.

Liam O’Neill, President-elect of the GAA, turned the sod to signal the commencement of work for the pitch development project.

This will see work begin on the construction of an all-weather playing surface, a hurling skills wall and remedial work undertaken on the playing surface of the existing main pitch.

Also in attendance were members of the Dublin senior football and hurling panels.

West Dublin hurler Dotsy O’Callaghan with Towers’ fans

Liam O’Neill signs Oisin Douglas’ jersey

D

Deputy Robert Dowds, Tony Delaney, Liam O’Neill and John Costello

Dostsy gets set to sign

16 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 29

in association with

Cian on the comeback trail

FastSport

Back injury put paid to his start on the European quintet named Tour, but Newlands’ man, Cian Curley, is pitching Hermes in Ireland senior squad for a strong return to golf, says STEPHEN FINDLATER

FIVE months out of the game, Cian Curley is keen to make up for lost time on the Euro Pro Tour as he looks to finally get his professional career in gear.

The Newlands’ man joined the paid ranks back in September following his victory in the East of Ireland open but lasted just one tournament before a back ligament injury placed him on the remedial list.

It stunted his momentum but a fine run in Pro Tour qualifying school – taking a second and fifth place finish – has put his ambitions of reaching the European Tour

proper very much back into focus.

And the success of his regular playing partner from his amateur days, Shane Lowry, has given Curley the confidence to push on in the coming months.

Just two short years since his Baltray success, Lowry was making his majors debut at the US Open this week, and Curley says it is a source of inspiration, a feeling reinforced by his appearance at last year’s 3 Irish Open.

He told the Gazette: “The experience itself just gives you a taste.

You want to get out onto

Sinead McCarthy in action against Australia

the Tour as quick as you can. The main thing I took from it was seeing the standard and knowing you’re not that far away from it.

“When you’re grow-

also attend qualifying school for the European Tour later this year.

It offers a glimpse of the big time, the Sky Sports cameras covering the latter stages of

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

‘You want to get out onto the Tour as quick as you can. The main thing I took from the Irish Open was seeing the standard and knowing I wasn’t that far away’ --------------------------------------------------------

ing up, you think ‘these guys are so good, how am I ever going to be that good?’ But when you’re out there you realise, you’re not that far away and that you can hit the ball as well as any of them.

“I played a lot of the same representative teams as Shane, social golf with him, too. It’s the same thing as I said about the Irish Open.

“I don’t know if intimidating is the right word but it definitely helps you think you’re doing the right things, playing at the right level. At this stage, you do need a bit of luck and play well at the right times.

Shane played well at the right time and now look where he is.”

For the moment, Curley must bide his time on the Pro Tour, a third tier of competition that offers an avenue for its top five to a Challenger Tour card, while he will

each event, and there is a sense that Curley’s career is kicking on after his injury mishap.

Curley embarks on a hectic schedule this week, taking in two tournaments in Ireland and two in England in the next month before a one-week break and then another block of four tournaments.

Strong results there and the Newlands’ man will be in fine shape to move up the rankings while opportunity may knock if he can snag an invite to a Challenger event or the Irish Open, once again.

“I’m back now and got my full card on the Euro ProTour, played a few events and form is good and it’s going well so far.

“But it’s really only kicking off next week with four events in a row, and eight in the next nine weeks – the main chunk of the season.

“Getting injured was tough. Especially, in my first event, I was just excited to be playing my first pro event.

“At the time, I was a bit devastated. I had plans and it disrupted them because I was basically just sitting around and it got pretty boring.

“It made the winter a bit longer but at least it was the winter time that it happened and not in the middle of the season.”

The decision to go professional was cemented in the wake of his “break-out” success, taking the 2010 East of Ireland Open.

It came reasonably late by modern standards but the Lucan resident was keen to be in the right frame of mind for the big leap.

“It was the first big national event I won.

I’d competed a lot and been close in a good few events but never finished them off. But when I finished that one last year, it was a great feeling to get the monkey off my back.

“I wanted to turn pro.

Some say it’s quite late to turn pro at almost 25, but it was perfect time.

“I’d reached the top of the amateur game in Ireland and got a win under the belt. It wasn’t really a conscious decision to wait until I’d got the win, but I felt it was the right time.”

FIVE Hermes players have been named in the Irish women’s senior hockey team for the FIH Champion’s Challenge in Belfield this week, a tournament that brings eight of the world’s top 20 sides to Dublin.

Goalkeeper Emma Gray, Sinead McCarthy, Aine Connery, Audrey O’Flynn and Lisa Jacob are named in the side along with Loreto pair, Nicci Daly and Nikki Symmons, and Old Alex duo, Pamela Smithwick and Shirley McCay. The tournament gets underway on Saturday and runs for eight days.

At U-18 level, meanwhile, Mount Anville’s Aisling Naughton and Lisa McCarthy are part of the Irish U-18 side for next month’s European championships. Alexandra College are represented by Emily Beatty while Holy Child’s Emma Russell also gets the nod.

Newlands’ Hogan added to GUI select NEWLANDS’ golf club’s Andrew Hogan has been named in the list of five players selected by the Golfing Union of Ireland to compete in the 116th British Amateur Championship at Hillside and Hesketh Golf Clubs from this week.

He is included alongside Paul Cutler (Portstewart), Alan Dunbar (Rathmore), Andrew Hogan (Newlands), Dermot McElroy (Ballymena) and Reeve Whitson (Mourne).

They take part in a field of 288 worldranked amateur golfers from 35 countries competing

for the coveted trophy, a place in this year’s Open Championship and an invitation to the 2012 Masters Tournament.

Roche forced to quit finale of Criterium Dundrum cyclist Nicolas Roche bowed out of the Criterium du Dauphine after he was involved in a crash on the mountain stage to Les Gets last week.

The event, seen as a precursor to the Tour de France and an indicator of form for La Grande Boucle, saw Roche in fifth on the first mountain stage and was hoping for a strong finish to the event.

30 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

BOXING: COACH OF 31 YEARS HAILED AS LYNCHPIN OF COMMUNITY

Neilstown Boxing Club’s Gerry Fleming, seen here with Kenneth Egan at the Aviva stadium, was rewarded for his volunteer efforts

Conroy shines for Dublin in Cork defeat ROUND Tower’s Amy Conroy produced one of the stand-out performances for Dublin as she played her part for the county in their impressive run to the U-14 ladies’ football All-Ireland final but was unable to turn the Cork tide.

The Jackies fell 5-12 to 3-5 to an impressive rebelette force at Birr last weekend who were hot favourites going into the tie but only pulled truly clear in the closing quarter.

The signs were ominous right from the throw-in as Cork came marauding in packs.

Two minutes on the clock and Cork led by 1-1 to no score.

It took a little while but Amy Conroy opened Dublin’s account with a well-taken point in the tenth minute before skipper Emma Colgan went on a surging solo run and her high, lobbing ball from 30 metres ended in the net.

But the warning signs were still there, however, and a run of 1-3 without reply in the space of three minutes had Cork leading by 2-4 to 1-1 after 17 minutes. Points from Emma Byrne, Fiona Terry and a free by Megan Morrissey stemmed the tide somewhat, 2-5 to 1-4 at the interval.

And they started the second half strongly when Conroy set up Megan Morrissey who took her point well. The wind was knocked out of the comeback sails almost instantly once again when Megan Connolly finished off a flowing move to goal.

A Connolly penalty dinged the post in what could have been a killer blow and it opened up a serious lifeline when Conroy went straight up the pitch to net with a driven effort to leave just one between the sides.

There were chances to level but Cork regrouped, kept their defence tight and ran up 2-6 without response in the closing stages to run clear, scoring 1-3 in injury time.

Neilstown’s real hero Q sport@gazettegroup.com

NEILSTOWN Boxing Club stalwart, and the man indirectly responsible for the silver medal success of Clondalkin’s Kenneth Egan at the Beijing Olympics in 2008, Gerry Fleming, was recently one of 11 dedicated volunteers who were honoured at a ceremony which took place at the Aviva Stadium.

The volunteers, who have made outstanding contributions to sport in Ireland, were honoured by the Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring, TD. Gerry has been involved with Neilstown

Boxing Club for 31 years, principally as a coach but, in addition, over the last 10 years as an administrator and a driving force behind the newly opened purpose built club premises.

Always full to capacity, Neilstown Boxing Club is the focal point in the community and is credited with making a difference in hundreds of young people’s lives.

Young people are never turned away from Neilstown Boxing Club, where Gerry along with the other coaches spend time teaching the young people not just boxing skills but also the life skills of discipline, confidence,

Racing to award: Local volunteer receives plaudit DUBLIN Marathon and Race Series Director, Jim Aughney, from Clondalkin, was one of the recipients of an award for his voluntary contributions to Irish sport at the Aviva stadium recently.

He is seen here receiving his award from Dr Ronnie Delaney, chairman of the Selection Committee, and Minister of State with responsibility for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring TD.

positive lifestyle choices and self-worth.

Gerry has coached many National Champions over the years, the most successful being Olympic silver medallist, Kenneth Egan.

Speaking about Gerry’s impact on him, Egan said: “Gerry is not only my coach but a great friend.

He has pushed so hard in getting Neilstown its own boxing club.

“It has been over 20 years coming and is finally here, thanks to the hard work of Gerry and his coaching staff.

“He has travelled the world supporting me, which I am very grateful for, and has helped me

out anyway he can.

“I hope one day, when I’m at the end of my career, to take my place in the coaching staff back at the club,” said Egan.

While Gerry is proud of the club’s success, he has always operated on the basis that not every young person can be a champion, and what is really important is that they come through the door no matter their ability, participate and feel like they belong to something.

Speaking at the presentation of the awards Minister Ring said: “The contribution of volunteers in supporting Irish sports people at every

level, from when they first engage in sporting activity right through to developing elite athletes, should not be underestimated.

Indeed, the army of volunteers who dedicate their time and commitment to each sport in Ireland assist in building strong and healthy communities, while giving everybody the opportunity to be the athletes they are.”

Local TD Robert Dowds also congratulated Gerry, saying: “Gerry really deserves this award for all the hard work he has put into making the club the success story that it is. People like Gerry are the heroes of our community.”

16 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31

in association with

IHC: STRIKE FROM WHELAN SEALS POINTS AT HOME

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ROUND TOWERS THE official sod turning ceremony

the championship matches last

for our new pitch development took

week.

La na gClub which was scheduled

place on Sunday.

It was attended by GAA President

for Sunday last was postponed due

elect, Liam O’Neill, along with David

to the inclement weather.

O’Callaghan and Ryan O’Dwyer from

It will be rescheduled in the coming weeks - for more information, con-

the Dublin hurling panel.

Many thanks to all involved for

tact Niall Connaughton 0876290870 or see the website www.roundtow-

their assistance.

Work will now commence, so keep an eye on the website for regular and detailed progress updates.

The senior ladies’ footballers host a table quiz fundraiser in the club-

er.ie online.

Gaelic 4 Fathers light training session continues on Wednesdays at 7.15pm in the Community Centre.

Spread the word, all welcome.

This week’s lotto numbers were 2,

rooms on Thursday next.

Cost is €40 per table of four and all funds go towards ladies’ football registration and insurance.

The intermediate hurlers beat Trinity Gaels and Commercials in

8, 11 and 21; Bonus Ball 23.

There was one winner of this week’s jackpot of €4,500.

Congratulations to Peter Caffrey.

Next week’s jackpot is €2,600.

Round Towers are looking ahead to their encounter with Commercials in the Intermediate championship

Late free seals win for Towers in IHC

LUCAN SARSFIELDS LUCAN Sarsfields’ 125 Celebration

Spare an hour as many hands make

Open Day is on Sunday, June 19 at

light work. Start 9am.

The 12th Lock from 2pm to 6pm.

Congrats to Ali Twomey who made

Fantastic displays from the emer-

her senior debut for Dublin camogie

gency services, bands, food mar-

team at weekend against Tipperary

ket, stalls, barbecue, workshops

joining Mairi Moynihan at senior

etc. Free entry and fun for all the

level.

Good luck this week to our Junior

family.

ICH GROUP Round Towers Trinity Gaels PETER CARROLL

0-15 2-8

sport@gazettegroup.com

ROUND Tower’s met Trinity Gaels in the Intermediate Championship group stages last Wednesday at the Clondalkin Community Centre, looking to keep their championship hopes alive, having lost their first game to K ilmacud Crokes before getting the better of Fingallians in a highscoring encounter.

The opening ten minutes was all Gaels, however, and they were soon leading 2-2 to Towers’ 0-1.

The first goal was a low, bouncing shot from 20 yards out, an awkward one that most keepers find hard to deal with.

The Donaghmede s i d e p u t aw ay t wo frees then, with Dublin minor, Jack W helan, replying with one of his own.

The second goal came when the Towers’ full back allowed the ball to bounce in the square, which allowed Gaels to capitalise on their hesitancy.

Playing into the wind in the first half, the Clondalkin side showed excellent resilience to get back into the tie.

Points from Whelan, Eric Free, and Fergal McDonagh put Towers up by one going into half time with the score at 0-9 to 2-2.

The pick of the bunch came when Alan Keogh, who took a massive bang to the head just prior to the point, put a lovely shot over the bar from 40 yards.

Confidence Towers would have been confident going into the second half, playing with the wind, but anything was possible in this messy, stopstart encounter.

Gaels opened the scoring with three unanswered points. Mid-

fielder Whelan then hit back, reducing the deficit to one point, before Gaels pushed further distance between the sides with another two converted frees.

The fight back gathered momentum thereafter, with Towers hitting three unanswered points, including a fine strike by Eric Finn to bring the sides level at 0-13 to 2-7.

Ye t a g a i n , G a e l s grabbed a score to put them out in front by a slender margin.

Eoin Ryan was the man who equalised for the Clondalkin side this time in what was turning into a nip-and-tuck encounter with precious championship points at stake.

Whelan went on to win the game for Towers, with a smack from a placed ball in midfield securing the two points for his side.

“We didn’t hurl particularly well, but we showed great resilience to come back in the first

half and the second half.

“It’s always good to win when you’re not hurling at your best.

“We dug out the win and I think we were worth it - a great team p e r f o r m a n c e ,” s a i d Round Towers’ manager, Martin McKenna.

The Towers’ coach also shared his thoughts on the next outing against the competitive Commercials team.

“We’ll take it one game at a time. We have two important players back in Ian McManus and Barry Keogh.

“The lads we have there are really getting stuck in.

“Niall Byrne, playing midfield beside Jack Whelan, has been terrific, showing great graft and allowing Jack to grab the scores.

“It’s going to be a tough game against Commercials, but we have the players to give them a run for their money,” said McKenna.

Street leagues for boys/girls born

C footballers who play in championship.

2002 to 2004.

Registration is on Saturday, June

Condolences to Jim McCarthy and

18 between 1.30 and 3pm at hut

family on the death of his sister,

beside AWP in 12th Lock.

Sheila.

Matches take place

between

Tuesday, June 21 and Friday, June 24. Children must register.

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

Register online via website. Discount if done before June 30.

12th Lock clean-up this Saturday.

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 2, 14, 21 and 27. There was no winner.

Next week’s jackpot is €1,500.

Gerry McAndrew’s team will be in charge next weekend.

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

Thanks to Lucan Village Pharmacy who are this week’s sponsor.

ALL OF YOUR CLONDALKIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

HERO HAILED: Neilstown Boxing Club’s Gerry Fleming receives honour P30

JUNE 16, 2011

MCCARTHY MAGIC: New arrival pursues Olympic dream P29

GazetteSPORT

Club members, Dublin hurlers and Dublin County Board members look on as GAA President-elect Liam O’Neill turns the sod at Round Towers. Picture: Tommy Keogh

Towers turn the sod at Monastery La na gClub celebration postponed but the start of new age for the club begins at their Clondalkin HQ PETER CARROLL sport@gazettegroup.com

LIAM O’Neill, president-elect of the GAA, was present to turn the first sod on Round Towers’ site at Monastery Road last Saturday to symbolise the commencement of work on their new state-of-the-art facilities.

It was a historic day for the club, and they were delighted to have the future president in attendance, as well as Dublin County Board chairman, Andy Kettle, and Dublin CEO, John Costello, who also were present to show their support for the Clondalkin club’s latest plan.

Round Towers’ chairman, Tony Delaney, spoke of how the excellent facilities will not only benefit the club, but the broader Clondalkin area as well.

“This is a historic and momentous day for the club”, said Delaney when he spoke to GazetteSport last week. “We will soon have

facilities that will be second to none across the country.

“It is a great honour to have the presidentelect Liam O’Neill here, as well as Andy Kettle and John Costello, from the Dublin County Board, who have all been very supportive. I would also like to thank senior Dublin hurlers Dotsy O’Callaghan and Ryan O’Dwyer for coming out and showing their support.”

He also urged the community to get behind the plans as it would be for the betterment of all in the area.

“These state-of-the-art facilities will be amazing for Clondalkin, and we hope that the members of the broader community will get behind us financially, as this will be very beneficial to everyone in the area.”

However significant the day was, the muchanticipated La na gClub event scheduled for the weekend had to be cancelled due to the bad weather.

The “day for the club” boasted plenty of fantastic outdoor activities for the wider community to get involved in, but former chairman, Padraig McCarthy, stressed how holding the events on such a wet day would have been unfair to the families and young children who would have attended.

“We were very disappointed we couldn’t go the whole hog, but the fact that the day is based mostly on outdoor activities; it would have been unfair to bring the young children and families out due to the conditions,” he said.

McCarthy stressed that the club will be looking to set a new date and, weather permitting, there should be notice of it in the near future.

“We’re currently looking to set a new date for the La na gClub, there are no guarantees at the moment due to the unpredictable weather, but if we should find a suitable date, we will make the community aware of it.”