Gazette clondalkin
PLUS:
September 17 - 23, 2015
FREE
2012 R ow l ag h • B aw n o g u e • N e i l stow n • D e a n s r at h • K i n g swo o d Month • Ta lXX, l ag h t INSIDE: Bram Stoker weekend will style: We round up some of the latest give Dracula fans plenty of events on-trend looks for autumn/winter P18 to sink their teeth into See Page 17
Football:
Gavin coolness personified for All-Ireland final Page 32
Soccer:
Collinstown get title defence under way Page 30
Find us on
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES..................... 10 DUBLIN LIFE................... 13 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................28
Funeral funds appeal goes out ian begley
A WIDESPREAD donation campaign has started for the family of a Clondalkin father-of-three killed in an attack in Temple Bar. Gareth O’Connor (27) died as a result of an incident in Cow’s Lane in Temple Bar on the night of September 10 at around 8.45pm. Two women and four men have since been arrested, and released without charge. A file is now being
prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. An online petition has been made available by friends of O’Connor, who was a member of the Arthur Griffith Park Football Club, to help cover his funeral expenses and other costs. Organisers hoping to raise €5,000 have already reached more than €4,500. To donate visit www. gofundme.com/m93zt7ye. Full Story on Page 5
Game on: Towering fun for families at GAA club event PICTUREd ARE Dylan Wall and Senan Walsh at the recent Clondalkin Round Tower Family Fun Day. There was a host of fun games and activities for all the family at the GAA club’s day out in the village. Just some of
the attractions of the day were Europe’s largest inflatable games pitch, music athletics races for kids and adults, face painting, stocks and sponge, darts games, and mouse in the hole. Picture: Jolanta Rossiter
2 clondalkin Gazette 17 September 2015
crime Spate of anti-social attacks on schools condemned
Vandals smash St Mary’s windows ST MARY’S Senior National School in Rowlagh was the subject of an anti-social attack recently, where vandals smashed a number of windows and caused significant damage to the facility’s exterior. The incident, which occurred on the night of Thursday, September 10, did not disrupt classroom time the following day, but proved to be an unwelcome surprise to staff and students returning from the summer break. It has been reported that after the vandals failed to break into the
ian begley ibegley@gazettegroup.com
school, they proceeded to smash windows, causing a significant amount of damage to the property. A Garda spokesperson confirmed reports of the incident and said gardai were investigating the case. The attempted breakin and damage to the
school follows a number of separate attacks on other schools in the surrounding area. Last month, vandals set fire to St Ultan’s in Cherry Orchard, causing thousands of euros worth of damage and putting a counselling room out of commission. In November 2014, 10 schools and community centres were thrashed during a four-day burglary spree that saw up to €50,000 worth of damage caused, and technology equipment robbed. Clondalkin Cllr Eoin O Broin (SF) expressed
concern at the apparent increase in anti-social behaviour and thefts in a number of parts of Clondalkin. He said: “We have had an ongoing issue in Harelawn with stolen cars. I have met the gardai and am in regular contact with the council’s anti-social behaviour section and there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes to resolve this problem. “However, all relevant agencies must do everything in their power to ensure that people do not have to live in fear from joyriding or other forms of anti-social behaviour.” Cllr Gino Kenny (PBP) said: “T he incident regarding the damage done to St Mary’s only hurts the community. The people who do these
Children pictured outside St Mary’s Senior National School
things are only bringing the area they live in down, and I don’t think they see the implications of their actions. “I’m sure in the last few years there’s been a spike in burglaries that can be attributed to the economic situation. It goes on in a lot in differ-
Week-long focus on positive living ian begley
A TEAM of local positive living ambassadors joined forces recently to launch the second annual Health and Wellbeing Week. T h e we e k , w h i c h kicked off on September 14 across Dublin MidWest, focuses on mental health, physical activity and nutrition. It also involves a programme of activities, and promotes awareness, engagement and participation within south County Dublin. More than 10,000 people are expected to
attend the 72 events, which include a mountain trip, physical activities for pre-school kids, music workshops, meditation classes, tai chi, reiki, juicing, flower-arranging, a stroke support group, painting, mindfulness talks, a waltzing class, and many more. The closing ceremony will take place in Corkagh Park on September 19, after the Laurel’s 10km run in aid of Console. The programme of events is available on www.sdcc.ie.
Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers
ent estates in Clondalkin with some estates being plagued by it. “In Harelawn, the gardai have flagged certain individual’s living in the estate who are causing havoc there. These people are making life very difficult for many residents and I
think they are a very bad example to their own peer group.” Gardai at Clondalkin Garda Station are a p p e a l i n g f o r a ny one with information about the damage to St Mary’s NS in Rowlagh to contact them at 01-6667600.
17 September 2015 clondalkin Gazette 3
fesival: Catherine Dunne one of 59 authors taking part
charity
Muslim youth help kids
Book lovers in for a Red Line treat ian begley
THE Red Line Book Festival returns this autumn to Dublin Mid-West from October 11 to 17 with some of the best national and international writers and speakers coming to south County Dublin. This year’s programme was recently launched at County Library Tallaght by Mayor Sarah Holland (SF) along with the award winning author Catherine Dunne. Since its inception in 2012, the festival has been growing in popularity attracting more than 2,000 people every year. At the launch, Mayor Holland highlighted how “the extremely positive response to the Red Line
Book Festival so far has been pivotal in promoting South Dublin County as an attractive place to visit and as a hub of cultural activity.” With low admission fees for theatre events and free admission for events for schools and in libraries, there is something for everyone interested in books and literature in this inclusive festival. The festival this year will feature 33 events and 59 authors. Festival highlights include guest speakers and writers Jennifer Johnston, Joe Duffy, Conor Kostick, Mary Costello, Carlo Gebler and Dutch historian Joost Augusteijn. The programme also includes quality events
for school audiences, including Young Rebels at St Enda’s Park, Rathfarnham, with author Morgan Llewlellyn, and a celebration of Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes with the highly entertaining Wayne O’Connor. The UK-based Lyngo Theatre will stage their Puss in Boots performance for young children in the Civic Theatre. “This festival deserves to go from strength to strength as it has done since its inception. I urge everyone to turn up, take part, argue, question, debate and above all, have fun,” said Dunne. For more information and for a full list of events visit www.redlinebookfestival.ie
Strictly together: Teamwork proves key to fancy fundraising footwork pictured aRe Jack Maguire and Caitriona Murphy who have been
partnered in the Strictly Dancing fundraiser competition being organised by the Commercials Hurling and Camogie Club and St Mary’s GFC. The two clubs are neighbours in Rathcoole and Saggart. As well as intermediate, senior and junior adult teams, both clubs also have large juvenile sections. Strictly Together is seen as a great opportunity for the clubs to co-operate to fundraise. The competition launch took place in St Mary’s GAA Club Saggart, and the competition takes place on October 16 in the Citywest Hotel.
THE Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association raised more than €3,700 for the National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght, during a 5km charity walk in Corkagh Park on September 5. Lajna Imaillah, the women’s auxiliary organisation of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, also took part. Participants included the Imam of Galway mosque, Ibrahim Noonan, and Dr M A Malik, president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, Ireland. More than 120 walkers from around Ireland were also joined by South County Dublin Mayor Sarah Holland (SF). Donations are still being accepted. Visit www.mycharity.ie/event/ amya-charitywalk for more information.
4 CLONDALKIN Gazette 17 September 2015
crime A number of houses cordoned off after attack
Gardai investigate violent rape ian begley
CLONDALKIN gardai are continuing to investigate the rape of a woman in Monastery Walk last week. T he attack, which took place at about 1.40am on September 4 in the Clondalkin estate, involved a woman who
was subjected to a violent attack while walking along a road. W hen gardai were notified of the incident, the woman was brought to the sexual assault treatment unit in the Rotunda for treatment to her injuries. The following day, the scene and a number of
houses were cordoned off to allow gardai forensic officers to carry out technical examinations of the area. Gardai also carried out searches of the area, including a nearby field. Local residents expressed their anger over the incident and
sympathy for the victim on social media. General Election candidate for Dublin Mid-West John Curran (FF) is appealing to residents to contact gardai with any information they have. He said: “I am appealing to local residents in Monastery and
Clondalkin village to contact the gardai with any information they might have in order to catch the perpetrator of this horrific crime.” Gardai at Clondalkin Garda Station are appealing for anyone with information to contact them at 01 6667600.
don’sdublin Corsican battle exposed fortitude of Martello towers ALTHOUGH it is the most famous of them all, the Martello Tower in Sandycove that houses the James Joyce Museum, is one of about 50 which were built to repulse a possible invasion by Napoleon’s navy. After the passage of the National Defence Act 1804, towers were erected along the east coast from Bray to Balbriggan, with others on the south coast and Cork harbour. When war broke out between Britain and France in 1793 two British ships, the Fortitude and Juno, attacked a round tower at Cape Mortella in Corsica in February 1794. After hours of heavy bombardment by the two ships the tower was finally taken with little damage to the structure. However, the Fortitude had been set on fire and lost 62 men in the fight. Impressed by the strong defensive nature of the tower, engineers used the design when building the line of towers in 1804. Around Dublin 28 towers were erected, with 16 stretching southwards from Sandymount to Bray, and 12 northwards from Red Rock, Sutton to Balbriggan. Seven of those to the south have been demolished while all to the north are standing. Many are in private ownership with Howth tower, now the Ye Olde Hurdy Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio, the only one open to the public on the northside. Apart from Sandycove, Seapoint tower is the only other open to the public (during the summer) on the southside. There you can see the equipment used for loading the 18-pounder gun (there is a replica on the roof), and feel what it was like to have lived there. The towers were usually 40ft high with walls up to 8ft thick and housed an officer and 10-15 soldiers. Although built in time of war they, thankfully, never saw any action as the French invasion never materialised. It is somewhat ironic that towers designed in Corsica, where Napoleon was born, were the blueprint for a defence against him!
Don Cameron
www.donsdublin.wordpress.com
Martello towers were erected along the east coast from Bray to Balbriggan, with others on the south coast and Cork harbour
17 September 2015 CLONDALKIN Gazette 5
donations Campaign to raise €5,000 for family
Community is ‘heartbroken over death’ ian begley news@gazettegroup.com
A WIDESPREAD donation campaign has started for the family of a Clondalkin man killed in an attack in Temple Bar. Gareth O’Connor (27) died as a result of an incident in Cow’s Lane in Temple Bar on the night of September 10 at around 8.45pm. At the time he was socialising with a group of friends, along with his brother and neph-
ew, when they became involved in a verbal altercation with another group of men. Two women, both in their early 20s, were arrested and released without charge. Earlier, four men were arrested and also released without charge. A file is being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. Investigating gardai are continuing to appeal for footage they believe witnesses may have captured of the incident on mobile phones.
More than €4,500 has been raised so far in honour of Harelawn resident Gareth O’Connor (27) , also known as Garzy, who died on September 11. An online petition has been made available by friends of the father-of-three and late Arthur Griffith Park Football Club footballer to help cover his funeral expenses and other costs. Organisers are hoping to reach €5,000 through the drive. Paula Haverty, who
Father-of-three Gareth O’Connor (27) who died after an assault in Temple Bar
is the organiser of the petition, w rote that O’Connor lost both his parents at an early age. “He had shown from an early age he was a fighter when he survived a second-f loor fall when he was young. Life for him was one great battle after anoth-
er… he conquered a lot of them. He had to grow up the hard way, which in turn gave him great skills. His second love after his family is playing football for Lucan Club Arthur Griffith Park FC. “The community of Harelawn is also heartbroken to lose Gareth
in such a tragic way. “We, as a community of Clondalkin, took the family in once before when it was needed. It is with great sadness that it’s needed again.” Donations to O’Connor’s family can be made on www.gofundme. com/m93zt7ye.
Activity Over 55s given tips on living THE 55+ Daily Activity booklet has been launched by South Dublin County to help people over 55 find information on what’s going on every day in their local area. The 55+ Daily Activity is a snapshot of just some of the many activities and community groups in the Clondalkin, Lucan, Palmerstown and Newcastle areas. The booklet provides information about places to go for a coffee or tea and a chat, or for lunch or dinner. There is also information about activities such as dancing, swimming, bowling, card games and fitness. To download a copy of the booklet, visit www. sdcc.ie.
6 CLONDALKIN Gazette 17 September 2015
Killed: in spain and cambodia
unemployment Reverse centre cuts, says O Broin
Shock deaths of local men ian begley
TRIBUTES have been paid to two Firhouse residents, who died in two separate incidents this month while abroad. Former St Anne’s GAA member Kieran O’Brien (46) was killed in a hitand-run incident in the Kandal province in Cambodia on September 6. He was riding his motorcycle when he was hit from behind by a car. A statement in the St Anne’s GAA club notes read: “With great sadness we say goodbye to a dear friend and larger-than-life character Kieran (Greener) O’Brien… “All at St Anne’s GAA Club would like to express our sincere condolences to the O’Brien family at this time. May he rest in
peace.” In another incident, Sean McShea (34), also from Firhouse, died on the south coast of Spain on September 7 when the car he was driving crashed at the entrance to the port of Esepona at about 5am. His wife, Lia Mullins McShea, wrote on Facebook: “I lost my husband, my best friend, my soulmate and the best father to our babies. “We were friends since we were five years old, we were together 10 eventful years, life was never boring with Sean. “I just wish this wasn’t true, I wish he would just walk through the front door now. “You are with your mam now. RIP my beautiful angel. I will always love you.”
The Clondalkin Centre for the Unemployed has called on local representatives to support the continuation of the training programme for local unemployed people
Closing jobless training service ‘makes no sense’ ian begley
THE Clondalkin Centre for the Unemployed has been forced to close because funding has been withdrawn by the Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board. The centre has been operating since 1999 from Aras Rualach on the Neilstown Road and provided training to young people from Clondalkin and its surrounding areas. The Education and Training Board (ETB) informed management that funding for the centre was being withdrawn for its local training initiative (LTI) because it wasn’t viable. It said the 17 trainees due to start the training this year would have to travel to Tallaght if they wanted to access their course. Clondalkin Cllr Eoin O Broin (SF) has called on Education Minister Jan O’Sullivan and the training board to “immediately” reverse the cuts to the centre’s training initiative. He said: “The local
training initiative has a long track record of providing an invaluable service to the community in north Clondalkin. “The decision to cut this service makes no sense. North Clondalkin has high levels of unemployment, youth unemployment and social disadvantage. We need more services to get people back to work not less. “Seventeen young people were due to start this course on Septem-
enormous.” The Clondalkin Centre for the Unemployed (CCU) issued a statement, saying it refused to believe the local training initiative programme was not viable. “The rationale given for pulling the plug on this successful pro gramme was ‘due to low demand for places on the programme over a two-year period and the number of learners dropping off’. “We do not accept
-------------------------------------------------------
‘Seventeen young people were due to start this course on September 7. Many will now drop out of training.’
--------------------------------------------------------
Cllr Eoin O Broin (SF)
-------------------------------------------------------
ber 7. Many of them will now drop out of training. The funding cut will also result in the loss of two full-time jobs. “Given that this sixmonth course costs only €50,000 to run and is run twice a year, clearly the savings being made by the ETB are minimal. However, the loss to the local community are
that our LTI programme is not viable. “We would like to see actual figures from all other LTI programmes that are viewed viable and will receive continued support. These figures should be made public. We are urging our local representatives to support the continuation of the programme.
“North Clondalkin continues to be an area of high unemployment a n d l ow e d u c a t i o n achievement. The continuation of this programme is important to this area. “It is also important that the Department of Social Protection and Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board work with organisations like CCU to ensure unemployed people are referred to fill all available training places.” A spokesperson for the Department of Education said: “Education training boards are expected to manage their resources to provide the best service for all areas under their remit and this will lead to changes in provision in particular areas from time to time. “The day-to-day operation of education and training programmes is a matter for ETBs, in this instance Dublin and Dun Laoghaire ETB, and is not a matter for the Department of Education and Skills.”
17 September 2015 CLONDALKIN Gazette 7
transport Cherry Orchard link to city centre would cost €1bn
Dart underground likely to be shelved ian begley ibegley@dublingazette.com
SOME residents believe the mothballing of the Dart underground project will have a negative impact on Dublin Mid-West, while others believe the ongoing sister project to open Phoenix Park railway tunnel is a high priority for the area. It has been reported, but not yet confirmed, that the Government will sacrifice the €1bn Dart project as it prepares for its capital plan, which is to be announced next month.
The underground Dart would see a link from Cherry Orchard to Dublin city centre, and the Docklands area. The line would be about 7.6km in length and would connect the northern and Kildare rail lines. The potential abandonment of the project has been met with a mixed reaction from local residents on social media. One person wrote: “To abandon the underground Dart project is bad for Lucan, particularly for residents and commuters living in Adamstown, estates in south Lucan near Adamstown, Fon-
thill [Clondalkin] and the unopened Kishogue station on the Kildare route line. “It was very convincingly demonstrated that if Adamstown grew to its capacity, and if and when the lands in Clonburris are developed, and if people switched to rail, Heuston Station would not have the capacity, nor would the Luas Red Line be able to handle extra passengers coming in from Kildare, Lucan and Clondalkin.” However, Cllr William Lavelle (FG) told The Gazette that even if the Government decided to abandon the under-
ground project commuters in Lucan and Clondalkin would enjoy better services to the city centre once the €13.7m Phoenix Park tunnel reopens later this year. “The Phoenix Park railway is going to be open within a couple of months, which is a priority. “The tunnel will be very beneficial to commuters around south County Dublin and for the first time we will have direct trains from Lucan and Adamstown to the city centre. “That is a really positive development, and even if the money was
Underground Dart would link Mid-West Dublin to city centre. Picture: William Murphy
provided for the Dart underground it would take several years before it was completed, but we’re getting the Phoenix Park rail tunnel within the next few months, which is great. “My understanding is
that the plans for the Dart underground project is going to be re-specified and included in a future project.” Cllr Paul Gogar ty (Ind) told The Gazette he would like to see direct links from areas in
Dublin Mid-West to the airport. “At the moment residents have to get a train to Heuston Station...and then a bus to the airport. I would like to see direct links to Dublin Airport in one changeover.”
8 CLONDALKIN Gazette 17 September 2015
opinion Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan on an international fight
A huge victory for water campaigns across the EU ON SEPTEMBER 8, the R i g h t 2 Wa t e r campaign in Ireland and Europe scored a huge victory. The Boylan Right2Water report was passed by the European Parliament. This report was a follow-up to the first successful European Citizens Initiative, which
called for water to be enshrined as a human right. In 2013, almost two million people across the EU signed a citizens’ petition calling on the EU Commission to enshrine water as a human right, and to ensure universal access to all. The petition also stressed that water was
not a commodity, and should be excluded from market rules. The repor t passed in parliament with the support of the United Left, Greens and Social Democrat groups, went far further, and has been warmly welcomed by water campaign groups from Ireland and across Europe.
Water is a very emotive issue, not just in Ireland but across the EU. Citizens in many EU countries have mobilised to protect their right to water. In Italy and Greece, they voted overwhelmingly in referendums to block the privatisation of water – a referendum the Fine Gael/Labour Government refuses to give the Irish people. In Berlin, public pressure forced the authorities to buy back their water services after privatisation saw charges skyrocket and services deteriorate. In Spain, citizens are mobilising against water cut-offs. Up to 80,000 families have lost their water supply there due to austerity. I have spent my first year as an MEP meeting with the various water stakeholders, including campaign groups, unions, NGOs and both public and private water companies. It became clear very quickly that the EU Commission has actively promoted privatisation and water charges in member-states, despite EU law stating that they have no right to do so. The Boylan Right2Water report clearly instructs the Commission to respect its legal neutrality and to cease interference. It stresses the contradictions between the actions of the Troika and the EU law on member-states’ right to choose how best
Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan: “Comparing water to other utilities such as electricity is nonsense – you cannot survive without water. This is why enshrining water as a human right in a legal framework is so important.”
to deliver water services. It also states ver y clearly that privatisation should not be promoted. Thankfully, a Fine Gaelsupported amendment to the report that tried to delete these paragraphs was defeated. The repor t rejects austerity and seeks to address the growing affordability issue of water across the EU. Ireland’s method of funding water services through general taxation is the most progressive way of paying for water. It is based on the individual’s ability to pay. Unfortunately, this is not the case in many EU countries. The report calls for a study on water poverty to be carried out. I believe this would show that Ireland’s general taxation model is in fact best practice for dealing with the affordability of water. This report calls for all revenues to be reinvested into water infrastructure rather than
profiting from water. It declares that water is a public good, and not a commodity. It also rejects the use of water cut-offs. Water is essential for life, and cutting off someone’s supply because they cannot afford it is a violation of human rights. Comparing water to other utilities such as electricity is nonsense – you cannot survive without water. This is why enshrining water as a human right in a legal framework is so important. Other important points included in this report is an exclusion of water services from the internal market, and from trade deals such as the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP). It calls for greater public involvement in decision making, and greater transparency. It also calls on the EU to do more to help bring universal access of water and sanitation to the developing world.
Despite the attempts by Fine Gael’s group to block this report at the Environment Committee in June, and to delete all the really progressive points from it when it came before the Parliament, the Right2Water report passed without the support of Fine Gael and their group. This report delivers a serious blow to the privatisation agenda of the right-wing groups in the EU. It sends out a clear message to the Commission to stay out of member-states’ organisation of water services, and to respect the wishes of the people. It is a massive victory for the Right2Water Campaign, and the 1.8m people who signed the citizens’ initiative calling for water to be a human right. Tuesday, September 8 was a David and Goliath day for water campaigners everywhere!
Lynn Boylan Sinn Fein MEP
17 September 2015 CLONDALKIN Gazette 9
10 CLONDALKIN Gazette 17 September 2015
gazetteGALLERIES
Sharon McGarry and Ellen Curtis. Pictures: Jolanta Rossiter
home from home: open day has lots to offer diy enthusiasts
H
OME improvers and DIY fans were treated to an open day at the HHI Home Improvements Centre in Ballymount recently. Window, and actual, shoppers were invited to spend some time perusing the kitchen and bathroom styles on offer at the store. There was something for the up-and-coming DIY enthusiast too in the form of a colourful slide, which meant everyone was busy and happy. For those who didn’t manage to make it to the open day there’s lots of time to make it to Unit 3, Robinhood Road, Robinhood Industrial Estate, to check out what’s on offer.
Nicola Dowling and Mairead Byrne from Newcastle wish Maria Barrett from Mayo good luck. Pictures: Cathy Weatherston
true blues: CROKE PARK A PLACE OF JOY FOR DUBS
Clondalkin fans join winners’ celebration C
LONDALKIN GAA supporters were delighted to celebrate the victory of the Dubs over Mayo in the recent replay at Croke Park. The game was eagerly anticipated after the highpowered semi-final match the previous week, which ended in a draw. Nobody was taking anything for granted in the replay after the bruising first encounter during which Mayo showed they had every intention of trying to make to the final. But the Boys in Blue showed its winning style in the end and Clondalkin-based Dublin supporters arrived home relieved and happy, with a great final set up with Kerry on Sunday, September 20. Helen Cairns and Jeffrey Owie
Lea Hearst with son Ethan
Greig Wightman, Andrew Bennett and Robert Sargent
Eddie and his son Conner Furey, Dublin supporter Tony Broughan and Gar Pringle Furey
Linda, Holly and Gerry Garrigan
17 September 2015 clondalkin Gazette 11
Shona, Keeva and Leah Walsh
John O’Leary and James Boylan
Eoghan, Sarah and Alan O’Neill
Mary and Linda Brennan with Bernie Gane
12 Gazette 17 September 2015
gazetteGALLERIES
Cathy Belton, Paul Mercier and Eleanor Methven
Meghan Moynihan and Eimear Walsh
premiere: LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
In pursuit of fun I
Ireland’s leading actors gathered in Dublin for the premiere of new Irish action film, Pursuit, which is directed by Paul Mercier and sees Brendan Gleeson, Ruth Bradley and Liam Cunningham take centre-screen. Pictured on the red carpet ahead of the Dublin premiere were the stars of the film, including Bradley, Cunningham, Barry Ward, Dara Devaney, Owen Roe, Don Wycherley, David Pearse, Ciaran O’Brien, Emmet Kirwan and Donall O Healai. Set between Connemara and the Spanish Costa del Sol, Pursuit is a modern take on the legend of Diarmuid and Grainne; a tale of love, betrayal, revenge and the pursuit of a life beyond crime, which features car chases galore, placing the Skoda Octavia RS firmly in the limelight.
Actor Liam Cunningham, Sabina Higgins, President Michael D Higgins, actress Ruth Bradley and director Anne Gately at the Skoda Dublin premiere of Pursuit at the IMC Cinema in Tallaght. Pictures Brian McEvoy
Sinead and Nell Mercier
Actor Dara Devaney
17 September 2015 Gazette 13
14 Gazette 17 September 2015
Gazette
dublinlife A celebration of cultural diversity EVERYONE in Dublin is being encouraged to come out and celebrate the city’s cultural diversity at the free BlueFire Street Fest on September 19 in Smithfield Square. Last year’s BlueFire Street Fest drew 10,000 attendees and the organisers are anticipating a 12,000 crowd this year.
Smithfield Square is being decked out on the day with art installations, which include visual artist Ashleigh Downey’s Blooming Bunting project and artistic demonstrations by the Temple Bar art gallery, The Icon Factory. This is the festival’s third birthday and the
highlights this year include live sets by eight Dublin-based bands, including members of Kila, Manden Express, Ajo Arkestra, Kiruu, Rhythm Africana, Ayodele, SuperTonic Orchestra and The Bionic Rats. Street fest attendees have the opportunity to avail of up to 50 free
diary
expert-led workshops across a wide range of activities including yoga, capoeira and DJ-ing. The all-day festival runs from noon until 10pm and admission is free. Visit www.bluefiredublin.ie for more information.
Future’s at home in dublin village Dublin2020 will create an exciting mini village on O’Connell Street for Culture Night on September 18. From 5.30pm to 8.30pm, visitors to Dublin Village will meet an ideagenerating robot, who will literally eat people’s ideas about the future of their city. Next, visitors will meet positive protesters, who will be shouting about the thoughtprovoking ideas that have been collected by Dublin2020 during their meetings and workshops with more than 3,000 citizens of Dublin. At the Tea and Chats Tent, busybodies Ethel and Lillie will be entertaining visitors and asking what makes them tick. The comedic pair will also treat guests to tea and a very special Dublin2020 cake, all set to the sounds of old time music. Guests with energy to burn can step into the Jungle of Games and play a special Dublin version of Snakes and Ladders, and huge versions of old school games such as Giant Jenga. All ages are welcome to pitch in and paint a collective community street mural led by artist Jane Groves entitled, I’m Mad about Dublin.
Yoga with Marta is one of the workshops on offer during the BlueFire Street Festival
sleeptember loves bed-head selfies MONEY worries still cause 22% of people in Ireland to lose sleep occasionally, according to Ireland’s first National Sleep Survey, commissioned by bed and mattress provider King Koil to mark the month of Sleeptember. The month of September has been dedicated Sleeptember, with a campaign backed by popular GP Nina Byrnes designed to provide advice on good sleep and its health benefits. A charitable dimension to Sleeptember sees Temple Street Children’s Hospital benefit from a campaign asking people to share their not-alwaysflattering “bed-head selfies”. The charity appeal,
supported by Irish rugby International Cian Healy, is asking people to be brave by tweeting their own “bed head selfie”, or to nominate a friend, and donate €4. Tweet your “bed head selfie”, with hashtags #Sleeptember, #BedHeadSelfie or nominate a friend, and text HOSPITAL to 50300 to donate €4 to Temple Street Children’s Hospital. For further information visit www. Sleeptember.ie.
highlighting sexual assault WELL-known Dublin columnist Fiona Looney recently opened up about an incident in her 20s when she was sexually assaulted. Talking on an episode of Midday on TV3, she discussed the incident during a panel discus-
sion about controversial remarks made by Chrissie Hynde (The Pretenders), who said she was at fault for a sexual assault at the age of 21. On the programme, Looney said: “At the time, it was the worst thing that ever happened to me. But afterwards, the amount of people, and I hate to say this, mainly women, who said: ‘Yeah, but your skirt was really short and you were quite drunk’. “I’m sorry – how is that my fault that a man forced me down and pulled my legs apart? How is that my fault because of what I was wearing?” she said. During the show, Ellen O’ Malley Dunlop from the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre urged anyone who is a victim of an assault or rape to ring their helpline at 1800 77 8888.
17 September 2015 Gazette 15
FEATURE escape the mayhem: moments of calm are precious
Cheesy music in the car helps – no joke! aisling kennedy
AS a stand-up comedian, an actress who makes appearances on Irish shows such as Republic of Telly, and a mother to three young children, Emma Doran from Rathfarnham is a woman who has a hectic schedule. She spoke to the G a z e t t e t h i s we e k , explaining how she manages to escape the mayhem of her busy lifestyle. “I find that I just have to take the moment of calm when it appears,
I don’t really set time aside,” she says. “If I have a bit of time to myself, which can be something as simple as being in the car before a gig, I love to write or just listen to some music. There’s no distractions or noises or anything like that. I just take that moment because I never know when it’s going to appear again. Quietness is a big luxury for me and I do enjoy it when I get the chance!” Doran explains that she enjoys writing jokes
and sketches for her comedy show when she gets the chance and particularly loves listening to “bad music” during her quiet times. She says: “I listen to awful, awful music! I love the pure cheese factor stuff like when you’re in the car on your own and you’re belting it out. I always have to remember to quickly change the radio station off the cheesy stations when other people get into my car so I don’t look bad.” Doran is currently
writing her comedy show about being a mother to her three children, Ella (12), Joe (two) and Tammy (seven months), and the challenges and laughs that ensue. “It’s my first solo show and I just thought I’d give it a go because I couldn’t go to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this year as my baby is still so young. I just thought I need to get all of this off my chest so this show is how I’m doing it.” When asked if she has any advice for any
Actress and stand-up comedian Emma Doran
young mothers on how to escape the mayhem she laughs: “Yes, if your child or particularly your baby is sleeping and you’re thinking to yourself that they have been asleep for
a while, don’t worry. Just leave them asleep. Don’t question it, just take that time. Any little windows of time that you get, just take them.” Doran will appear in
her solo show, Mammy Wants a Drink, at the Mill Theatre in Dundrum on September 18 and 19, 2015. Tickets are available at www.milltheatre.ie
Gazette
16 Gazette 17 September 2015
dublinlife
feature
When choice makes it impossible to choose CONSUMERS have never had so much choice. When described like that, this sounds like a good thing. Consumers have also never had to make so many difficult decisions. Put this way, the same idea is a bit less enticing. This increase in choice, and decisions has partly come about because of changes in technology, but also because of the opening up of many markets to greater competition. These include the markets for gas, electricity, telecommunications, health insurance and various financial services, like banking, credit cards and pensions. When buying these products, the available choices and the number of features of the product we must consider can feel overwhelming. Some experts in decision-making believe that making good decisions in these markets has become almost impossible. It can be very difficult to decide which product is most suitable for us. Decisions are difficult also when we must predict the future, as when buying a house. As well as weighing up the many different features of each property, we have to consider what might happen to prices, the direction of interest rates and how confident we are that we can earn enough in future to meet mortgage repayments. The ESRI (Economic and Social Research Institute), the State-run think tank, is now con-
ducting a research programme in behavioural economics. Behavioural economists study the psychological factors behind our economic decisions – why we choose what we do, how we go about it, whether we make accurate and consistent decisions, and so on. Behavioural economics has developed rapidly in recent years. It uses experiments to study our decisions scientifically. The results are changing the way economists around the world think about how markets work. In Ireland, the ESRI now has a behavioural economics laboratory, PRICE Lab. It is funded by four of the main economic regulators: the Central Bank, the Communications Regulator (ComReg), the Commission for Energy Regulation and the recently formed Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. Consumers in the Dublin area can come to PRICE Lab to take part in these experiments. The ESRI pays them a small fee and the experiments take around one hour of people’s time. They involve sitting in front of a computer screen and making lots of choices between different products at different prices. The participants who perform the best at the tasks win vouchers. The findings are already proving interesting. It turns out that most of us find it difficult to weigh up more than two or three features of a product at
Dr Peter Lunn, Senior Research Officer at the ESRI which now has a behavioural economics laboratory, PRICE Lab
-------------------------------------------------------
When choosing between houses, mortgages or health insurance, which can differ in dozens of ways, consumers are likely to struggle -------------------------------------------------------
Dr Peter Lunn
-------------------------------------------------------
the same time. That’s not a problem in markets where there are only a few things that need careful consideration, but when choosing between houses, mortgages or health insurance plans, which can differ from each other in
dozens of different ways, it suggests that consumers are likely to struggle. Many may fail to choose the best option or end up paying more than they should. Companies can also exploit this limit in the amount of information
that consumers can handle. They can promote the one or two product features that make the product look good and successfully hide the features on which it is inferior to competitors. They can also list prices as discounts from a “standard” price. This looks attractive, but PRICE Lab’s findings show that it makes life harder for consumers, who must process two pieces of information instead of one. Another result to emerge from PRICE Lab is that we find it easier
to choose when product features are straightforwardly good or bad. Examples are the speed of broadband or the price per unit of gas, where more of the good thing or less of the bad thing is always better. We str uggle more when a feature can be both too little or too great, so that we need to find the level that is just right, like with the number of minutes of talk-time or the duration of a mortgage. PRICE Lab’s aim is to discover what kinds of products and prod-
uct descriptions make it easier or harder for us to make good decisions. In some cases it may be possible for regulators to promote marketing practices that help consumers, or to prevent companies from using pricing methods likely to cause them to make errors. If you would like to contribute to this research by participating in the experiments, you can sign up at www. esri.ie/be.
Dr Peter Lunn Senior Research Officer at the ESRI
17 September 2015 Gazette 17
travel P20
asdfsdaf P27 gaming P25
OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week
Gazette
style P18
Pets A husky full of love and beans
Vampires Camille Ross and Robert McDermott were not happy to be caught veggie shopping on Moore Street ahead of the Bram Stoker Festival. Picture: Andres Poveda
Bram Stoker: weekend invites you to get in touch with your dark side
A ‘bloody great craic’ fest
keith bellew kbellew@dublingazette.com
THE Bram Stoker Festival returns in 2015, with a programme full of gloriously Gothic events for the October Bank Holiday Weekend. Each year the festival is organised by a different team with an entirely different programme of events. This week The Gazette spoke to this year’s festival organiser, Tom Lawlor, about the festival highlights. He says the goal of this year’s team is to give Dublin four days of stories and deadly adventures. This year’s programme aims to open out the festival to Dubliners and international visitors. “Largely, we’re looking at the city centre as somewhere that has a very
Gothic history and we’re opening that history up to people in the city across four days of the October bank holiday weekend. “We’ve programmed the entire festival so you can experience it by day and by night; so there are day events and night events. The daytime events are what we’re calling Living Stories, so it’s a chance to delve a little bit deeper into Dublin’s dark past.” He added that a number of the daytime events are geared towards families and children. One of these is Stokerland, a Victorian-themed pop-up park, which will be located at Wolfe Tone Square on October 25. Stokerland will provide a range of activities including tents where fami-
lies can have a tin plate Victorian portrait taken, receive Gothic makeovers, and Victorian goodies. Fancy dress is encouraged. One of the biggest highlights of this year’s festival will be the return to Dublin of world-renowned street artist Maser, who will create an interactive installation in Smithfield Square. “He’s going to be building an interactive installation, which will look like a utopian city that people can wander through and that’s going to be on display throughout the festival. “Also,we have a Twilight procession by the Galway company, Macnas, who were here last year. They’re coming back with their citywide parade from 5pm on bank holiday Monday. “They will parade along three dif-
ferent routes that people can join, and which will culminate in Wolfe Tone Square with some pyrotechnics.” The main theme of the procession will be Angels and Demons. Working with the Lighthouse cinemas in Smithfield, the festival will host a night of 1990s-era vampire flicks, including Blade I and II, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Francis Ford Coppola’s Dracula and Quentin Tarantino’s From Dusk til Dawn. The festival’s flagship late-night gala party, New Blood, will be held at the Project Arts Theatre on October 25 and 26, with bespoke cocktails, local and international live acts and DJs and loads of bloody craic. For a full list of programme events visit www.bramstkerfestival.com
The Dublin Gazette Newspaper Group have teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week this week is Beans, a two-yearold female husky cross. If you’re looking for a super smart, cheeky monkey to share your life with then Beans could be the girl for you. Beans by name and beans by nature! Beans needs to live in a calm, adult environment just to prevent her getting too giddy, as she is currently recovering from an old hip injury. Beans is very selective about the dogs she likes, so would do best as an only dog in the home. If you think you could offer Beans her forever home, please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook. com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. Don’t forget that you can also support Dogs Trust by checking out their online shop www.dogstrustshop.ie
action using the new brush for a long-lasting, chip-free colour. Suzanne’s top tips for great application are to follow a few simple steps: “Make sure the nails are shaped, filed and buffed before applying any polish. “T hen, apply one thin layer of SOSU base coat, two thin layers of a SOSU colour of your choice, followed by a thin layer of SOSU top coat, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.” The new autumn/ winter collection colours range is available from pharmacies nationwide, Penneys stores, and selected nail salons. All polishes are priced with a RRP of €7.99.
Feel ultimate comfort with latest Clarins eye palette THE new eye make-up palette from Clarins has 10 gorgeous, on-trend eye colours with a variety of matte and satin finishes. Plant and mineral extracts such as musk rose oil and white meadowfoam guarantee a feeling of ultimate comfort on the lid. The palette has a RRP of €43.
Fake brows with the best thanks to Urban Decay mimi murray
I MAY not have been born with brows like Cara Delevingne, but with Urban Decay’s Brow Beater Microfine Brow Pencil and Brush (above), I can now fake it. And, really, this product (with a RRP of €18.50) does the business. I have been using this product for a couple of weeks and have had numerous comments on my amazing arches. It’s simple to use, with a variety of colours on offer, and will become a constant in my make-up bag.
Tuck stitch jumper €15.97 Contrast stripe dress €25
Cardigan with zip €12.99; Grey jodhpurs €5.99; (Both available late November.)
mimi murray
A NEW season can mean lots of new trends, and for those of us who like to remain fashionconscious, it can be a right pain for the cashstrapped! So, Gazette Style has had a look at some ways you can stay bang on trend without breaking the bank. The 70s are a massive theme throughout autumn-winter that has carried forward from the summer, so pull out a pair of flares from Heatons, and team with a simple roll-neck from Littlewoods. Easy peasy. Have a look at some other key items to keep you snug and sartorially sound this winter.
Tube skirt €20
LIDL
AFTER great success launching her 25-colour gel nail polish collection, Suzanne Jackson has added eight new colours to her SOSU by Suzanne Jackson range for the autumn/winter season. Warming greys, bold reds and glistening golds are some new colours you can expect to see in stores by the end of August. As well as adding eight new colours to the range, all polishes will include a new brush for a simple and quick application. SOSU Nail Polish is an innovative gel nail polish that requires no UV lamp and results in long-lasting, salon quality nails. The polish can easily be applied in one
Khaki parka €15.99
Faux leather leggings €6.99
L ITT L E W O O D S
Brighten up autumn nails with new SOSU
H EAT O N S
OUT&ABOUT
SO70SSTYLE
Gazette
18 Gazette 17 September 2015
Roll neck top €22
Embellished jeans €47
Patchwork poncho €53
17 September 2015 Gazette 19
Gazette
STYLE
Stars inspire Juvi’s glittering bracelets
Black and white tea dress €20; Snake back boots €25; Bag €15
Knit roll neck €20 True denim flare €25
True denim skinny €22.50
Tan biker jacket €19.99 Khaki waterfall top €12.99
Grey jumper dress €9.99
Lidl items mostly available from midto late-November
AWARD-winning Irish beauty. jewellery company, Juvi “Out walking one Designs, has unveiled moonless night, I was its Shooting Star collec- overwhelmed looking tion for autumn-winter, up; I can only describe introducing delicate it as magical beauty. stars in sparkling gold, “There were more rose gold and shining stars than I had ever silver, paired with beau- seen, along with gortiful precious gems. geous star clusters and From the cute Lucky the beautiful band of Star stud earrings to the Milky Way.” the elegant You Are My Juvi’s carefully crafted Shining Star bracelet Shooting Star collection and Star Clusis made by Julie and Vinter necklace, cent at their studio these lightin Dublin. weight J u l i e pieces said: “Stars are percan mean fect for a lot to Gold vermeil €59, l ay e rpeople, Silver €55 ing and symwill add bolisa sparkly ing anytwinkle to thing any look. f r o m Husband a new and wife duo beginning to a Julie Danz and Vincent turning point in Tynan began casting a person’s life. They tiny stars in sterling remind us of distant lovsilver, and plating with ers, adventures, friends, layers of 24-carat gold family, past dreams and and rose gold, follow- future hopes. I think ing a trip to a famous stars are magical, and stargazing spot in Ball- that’s what this collecinskelligs, County Kerry tion represents.” earlier this year. With prices starting J u l i e s ay s : “ T h e from €45, Juvi’s Shootr e s e r ve i s n e s t l e d ing Star collection is beneath the moun- available at House of tains and overlooks Fraser, Arnotts, Kilkenthe Atlantic Ocean. ny, independent retailIf you’ve ever visited ers throughout Ireland, Kerry, you will know of or at www.juvidesigns. its outstanding natural com.
Luxury Body Shop oils mimi murray
Loop knit jumper €74 Rochelle Humes high waist jeans €39
Rip and repair skinny jeans €43
South Mongolian coat €240; Definitions orange suede shirt €35; TFNC black polo €25; Carvella black boots €240
THE Oils of Life range is a new daily life-infusing skincare range from the Body Shop that revitalises, replenishes and revives skin, as well as visibly reducing the signs of ageing. What makes this range so special is the three precious and potent natural seed oils that are used to make this range – black cumin seed oil, camellia seed oil and rosehip seed oil. I loved these products – such as the facial oil (right), €48 – as they feel beautifully decadent and the packaging will look great in any bathroom.
Gazette
20 Gazette 17 September 2015
OUT&ABOUT
fast
TRAVEL NEWS
TRAVEL
tranquil: Keeping rural luxury real with woodland forage
Sunny alternative to those winter blues WE all look forward to a break at Christmas time, but it seems the stress of the holiday season can make us even more tired when we come back to work in January. What’s the solution? Take a sun holiday! Abbey Travel has come up with its top three Christmas sun destinations for those looking to escape from the winter cold. First on the list is Puerto Rico in Gran Canaria. Puerto Rico is perfectly positioned on the southern side of the island, which means it is warm and sunny all year round. Puerto Del Carmen in Lanzarote takes second place on the list of Abbey Travel’s top destinations to spend the Christmas period in. Finally, Corralejo in Fuerteventura comes in third, and is ideal for those interested in a much more peaceful time than many of the other resorts on the Canary Islands. To book your Christmas holiday visit www. abbeytravel.ie.
Abbey Travel kicks off season packages
THE Premier League is back for the 2015-16 season. With Abbey Travel you can be there in the flash to support your favourite team without the hassle of haggling for match tickets or trying to find a nearby hotel. Abbey Travel is offering hotel-and-matchticket packages for Liverpool matches from €239, for Man United matches from €129, for Arsenal from €279 and Chelsea from €329. Prices are per person and based on two sharing. Included is one night in a three-star city centre hotel, breakfast and guaranteed match ticket. For more information on available packages, contact Abbey Travel on 01 8047102 or visit www.abbeytravel.ie.
Dainty old-world design and calm, neutral creams and greens are the hallmark of the Step House Hotel bedroom
A step above the rest for charm and fine food
Aishling Phelan
THE drive into the picturesque village of Borris, County Carlow, as the sun sliced through the clouds and beamed on glorious Mount Leinster, was a treat in itself. Sitting in the fertile valley of the river Barrow, the Step House Hotel faces the main gate to this Tudor-style ancestral home of the former Irish Kings of Leinster. Ruby red roses and delicate baby’s breath were dotted around the boutique hotel, while inside the spacious bedroom was the prettiest hotel room I have ever stayed in, with its dainty oldworld design. Its neutral cream decor with gold accents in every piece of furniture and sweeping powdery
green curtains made for the perfect atmosphere of tranquillity. But the best was yet to come. As I stepped onto the large private balcony, the magnificent view, with small clouds floating across the expanse of Mount Leinster, took my breath away. The luxury and character of the hotel made for an extra special weekend trip away. First, it was time for a hands-on bread making workshop in the ballroom with head chef Alan Foley and his team. We got to work on a brown bread recipe and the chefs also showed us how to make the range of white bread baked in the Step House kitchen. Curry bread? No, I hadn’t heard of it either but I would later experi-
ence that culinary sensation at dinner. After an afternoon of kicking back in our cosy room, it was off to the opulent surroundings of the private cocktail lounge for some bubbly treats. The restaurant is a small, cosy and intimate space. After scanning the menu, which relies on an array of local produce, I began with a starter of tasty organic herb risotto. For the main event, I chose succulent roast plaice with artichoke, ravioli and mushroom juices. I passed on the luscious dessert offerings opting for the more humble sounding ice cream selection. Sound boring? Not at the Step House Hotel. I was presented with a divine combination of
coconut, caramel and passion fruit flavours. The following morning, we delved into the woodlands on the outskirts of the Georgian village – after a delicious breakfast, of course. We visited the 16-acre Blackstairs Ecotrails facility to take part in a Find It, Pick It, Cook It, Eat It workshop. The foraging walks are run by former Green Party TD and minister Mary White and husband Robert. They have been keeping records of the area’s diverse ecosystem since 1975. Channelling my inner child, I abandoned my smartphone and took just a small notepad and pen as we set off to explore the rich land. We ducked under swinging branches, crossed wooden planks
guiding us across the streams and tip-toed over mossy carpets. The couple spoke passionately about the land’s ecological community and I couldn’t help but envy their peaceful lifestyle. We discussed the Celtic history of the towering trees and picked wild garlic, enjoying its tangy aroma. Later, we returned to the workshop to make mouth-watering wild garlic pesto and sweet sloe gin. Then it was time to go home but not before enjoying a wholesome serving of pumpkin soup, sandwiches and their signature bread selection. I collected my brown bread made the previous day and left feeling like a master chef after my culinary weekend at Step House Hotel.
17 September 2015 Gazette 21
Gazette
FOOD&DRINK BITESIZEDNEWS
Donegal rapeseed oil wins as healthy option
Hophouse/Kimchi Korean/Japanese fare
60 Parnell St Hophouse/Kimchi’s impressive menu is extensive, with the traditional Korean side dish, kimchi, a spicy mix variety of seasoning, to set your tastebuds humming
The Picky Eater SOMETIMES you don’t want the Italian. Or the French. Or the burger. It’s Friday and after a hectic week, the smartphone makes a fusion takeaway too complicated. Go out? Yes. But what to eat? Nil desperandum. Picky Eater is here to save you from this gastronomic indecision and send you downtown – to Parnell Street, and a little gem right beside the Shakespeare Pub, near the Gate Theatre, the Rotunda Hospital and the Gresham Hotel. Vintage Dublin, in other words. The modern Hophouse/Kimchi slots in well, cosying up to the hostelry and offering sanctuary to the indecisive Friday-nighter. Korean and Japanese food aplenty is on offer, with an ethnic or a domestic beverage to help you on your way. Green tea, plum wine, sake, Asahi, Kirin and Guinness to mention but a few are all on offer as accompaniments or pre-
prandial tipples to your sushi or bibimbap choice. Once inside, there’s a busy-ness that makes you feel like a tourist in your own city. You couldn’t give the interior or exterior decor ten out of ten, but the food is excellent, fairly priced and the staff are cheerful – what more could you want, really? The menu is extensive, with kimchi to set your tastebuds humming. This traditional Korean side dish is made of vegetables with a variety of seasonings. There are hundreds of varieties made from napa cabbage, radish, scallion, or cucumber as a main ingredient. So do have a dollop so you can say you tried it. Otherwise, it’s like eating “an Irish” without the spuds. The menu is massive, but Picky was undaunted: for starters, we had vegetarian mandu (dumplings) and endamame beans (boiled and salted). The dumplings were piping hot and hopping with flavour.
Sweet chilli and soy dips kept the tastes alive. The beans we gobbled down with our Korean beer. For mains, Picky’s companion had almost gone native, reminiscing about youthful trips to Korea and salivating over the upcoming bulgogi bibimbap. This signature Korean dish, which literally means “mixed rice”, was set before him and he breathed in deeply. The steaming bowl of white rice was topped with namul (sauteed and seasoned vegetables) and gochujang (chili pepper paste) had a raw egg and sliced beef on top. He stirred the hot dish together thoroughly just before eating, and disappeared into seventh heaven. Picky opted for a veg-
etarian bento box big enough for two: several chunks of silky tofu with contrasting crispy coat; two vegetable tempura – deliciously crunchy; a satisfying deep-fried slice of sweet potato rounded off with three pieces of sushi, and two little spring rolls. Wasabi, pickled ginger, soy and sweet chilli sauces set it all off nicely. The meal for two without dessert but with two beers and a green tea came to just over €50. The food had that “just cooked” air about it as it hit the table and our stomachs. Hophouse/K imchi demands a return visit. If you haven’t been, then get yourself down there ASAP. And, as Koreans say when raising a glass, Gun Bae!
Conclusion SET A stone’s throw from the city centre, Hophouse/Kimchi (at 60 Parnell St, Dublin 1; tel 01 872 8318) serves tasty, authentic Korean/Japanese staples at fair prices.
of vegetables with a
THE Donegal Rapeseed Oil Company has won awards for taste, and health benefits, for four consecutive years as it is fast becoming one of the world’s best producers of rapeseed oil. What makes the county’s oil so special is the way, and where, the rapeseed is grown. Situated in Raphoe in the fertile Laggan district of east Donegal, the rapeseed oil company only uses rapeseed grown in soil along the Wild Atlantic Way by local farmers, which creates a delicious and unique taste experience. As just some of its benefits, Donegal Cold Pressed Virgin Rapeseed Oil Donegal Cold Pressed Virgin Rapeseed Oil has 10 times more omega 3 than olive and coconut and some fish oils, and 10 times more omega 6 than coconut and olive oils. It is also very high in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for a healthy heart, is a good source of vitamin E, and contains no artificial preservatives and is GM free. The French have been using rapeseed oil for years in all areas of cuisine. Irish cold-pressed virgin rapeseed oil is available in 250ml (RRP €3.99) and 500ml (RRP €5.99) sizes.
Gazette
22 Gazette 17 September 2015
OUT&ABOUT
CINEMA
ReelReviews
no escape
A sidestep for Wilson ANOTHER week on, and Owen Wilson still hasn’t found a way to get his family to safety in the middle of a violent coup in No Escape (Cert 15A, 103 mins). Drawing criticism in some quarters for its tone, the film marks an unusual sidestep for Wilson, setting aside his usual bromance comedies and feel-good films for this actioner, with Pierce Brosnan in a supporting role.
the visit
Creepy, yet amusing, too IN M Night Shyamalan’s latest, The Visit (Cert 15A, 94 mins), two kids are sent to their estranged country grandparents for a catch-up holiday – their first, with the old couple. However, events soon turn stranger and stranger at the farmhouse ... The two young leads turn in great, naturalistic performances, but Deanna Dunagan totally steals the show as the increasingly kooky, creepy grandma.
irrational man
Makes plenty of sense WOODY Allen’s latest, Irrational Man (Cert 15A, 95 mins) proves a talkily entertaining chance to waste 90 minutes at the cinema. A college professor with a less than perfect life is a great base to build a typically Woodyesque film on, with Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone crossing paths and words in several ways. Its messed-up characters provide plenty to sympathise with.
While the film won’t change the world, Robert Redford and Nick Nolte breathe plenty of life into their roles, turning in anything but wooden performances
a walk in the woods: takes an aimless but diverting journey
Tale stumbles along amiably
SPANNING more than 3,500km, the Appalachian Trail runs along the eastern length of the United States, cutting through a dozen national forests from Georgia up to Maine, and is one of the longest waymarked walks in the world. With severe weather, bears, venomous snakes, and minimal infrastructure along the way – it is the kind of walk that madmen and fools tend to start – perfect cinematic fodder for A Walk in The Woods. Bryson (Robert Redford) is an accomplished writer, who realises that most of his social life now revolves around attending funerals. Reflecting on a life of travel and adventure, and
Dave phillips
uncomfortable with facing into old-age, he becomes captivated with the idea of walking the Appalachian Trail as his last great hurrah, much to the dismay of his wife, Catherine (Emma Thompson). Catherine’s infatuation with the multitude of risks facing Bryson on the trail lead to her insisting that he can only go on his adventure if he has company, and the only one of Bryson’s old crew willing to take the journey with him is his long-estranged
college friend, Katz (Nick Nolte). The film is based on Bill Bryson’s best-selling memoir of the same name, and while some elements of the story have significantly changed in its transition to film (the real life Bryson and Katz were in their 40s when they walked the trail), the odd-couple pairing has remained. Bryson is scholarly, stoical, and a little stiff in himself. He has a happy relationship with his wife, his kids have grown up successfully, and his grandchildren love him. His books sell well, and the walls of his study are decorated with awards and honorary positions. Katz, in contrast, maintained the wild-man
lifestyle; he never settled down, he has a history of struggling with booze, and he seems happiest when he is laying down playing harmonica to himself. Accepting the age shift from the book, this is some spot-on casting. Redford’s great at capturing that prim and proper veneer, but with a peek of something else just beneath the surface. You can tell the tale is driven by a sense of jealousy and rage, rallying against the urge to go quietly into the good night. Nolte channels his inner Bukowski; a whiskey-shone nose and a gravelly, broken voice bring decades of suffering to life in Katz, who hobbles painfully up and down the trail.
However, despite some great performances from the two leads, A Walk in the Woods does feel a little flat, possibly because it has the potential to go a lot deeper than it ever does. There is no doubt that Bryson and Katz’s misadventures are entertaining, but there is a larger, existential layer to the journey that seems frequently alluded to but never explored. Perhaps director Ken Kwapis’s long history in TV comedy keeps the focus on the lighter, superficial elements of the story, and in fairness they are what he can make work. Late night encounters with bears, altercations with local rednecks, and ditching awkward travelling companions (there’s
a fun cameo from Flight of the Conchord’s Kristen Schaal) are all handled expertly. Elements such as Bryson’s sense of righteousness, or his relationship with his wife, or Katz’s problems with alcohol are explored much more clumsily and frivolously. While the rigid Bryson and the unruly Katz eventually find a common understanding, the film’s attempt to marry its comedic and dramatic parts doesn’t end as well. It still maintains that Sunday afternoon kind of vibe where you can watch two ageing greats have fun together, but you can’t shake the feeling that somewhere along the trail we took a wrong turn. Verdict: 5/10
17 September 2015 Gazette 23
Gazette
MUSIC festival: electric picnic 2015, Stradbally
Sparks fly as the stars create electrifying gigs colm murray
THIS week Gazette Music reviews Electric Picnic 2015, which provided plenty of flavour for music fans to tuck in to at this year’s festival.
Friday The addition of a few thousand more punters – to the official capacity of 51,000 – did little to dampen the boutique vibe. The absence of rain this year in the lead up to, and right through the weekend, was the icing on the cake. Kicking off the main stage, festival favourites Ham Sandwich provided the first of many encroachments by band members to the crowd. The Coronas followed suit, and got the job done to a rapturous welcome, and a no less powerful set. With the majority of the stages not opening until the following day, a scheduling clash offered 90s shoegazers Ride their set a day early. The opening chimes of Leave Them All Behind got the crowd going as they blazed through a blistering set of distortion-drenched classics. Grace Jones and Underworld are no strangers to Stradbally. With the former still as eccentric and spellbinding as ever, she kept a hula hoop spinning in high heels for the duration of Slave To The Rhythm.
Under world, af ter the tingling Spoonman, and Dark & Long et al, finished up the evening with the obligatory Born Slippy, leaving the crowd to float off to wherever the evening took them.
Saturday The sun came out and remained for the duration of the day, adding a psychedelic hue to the by now completed site.
it was on to the main stage. Hot Chip brought a little samba to the main stage, reworking Ready for the Floor with a wash of percussion. With a back catalogue of hits, they’ve grown into bonafide party starters, with a quirky take on Dancing In The Dark as the sun started to set. It’s a shame that the sound system let them down in the volume department. Chvrches were a huge draw at The Electric Arena, thanks to their blend of electro-lite pop.
-------------------------------------------------------
‘A quick 360-degree look-around took in weird art installations, a distant fairground and a lot of trees, all soundtracked by genuinely unique psychedelica’
--------------------------------------------------------
Battles were on top form, with drummer John Stanier’s rhythmic assault at the heart of everything. The War on Drugs, over in the Electric arena, melted their epic American rock with sprinklings of Mike Scott’s Waterboys to produce a sound that stretched beyond the loyal throngs within. A quick dash to hear the last few verses of Horse Outside from the Rubberbandits over in the comedy tent, and
But we were happy to make do with Yasiin Bey, arriving just in time for a seemingly spontaneous Biggie Smalls cover. For such a genuine music icon, it was a relatively under-attended show, most likely because the average punter may only know this man by his former stage name, Mos Def. Dublin’s Meltybrains? were perfect for Body & Soul. A quick 360-degree look-around took in weird art installations, a
distant fairground and a lot of trees, all soundtracked by the band’s genuinely unique brand of beautiful, trippy rockpsychedelica. Even a moment spent watching Meltybrains? defined this festival in a nutshell. Just next door, and things were equally wild and wacky at the Jerry Fish Electric Sideshow. Fight Like Apes were dealing with stage invasions and general chaos, with more people outside the tent impatiently peering in than could actually see the band. Push It, by Salt ‘n’ Peppa, was a carcrash cover. As for Saturday’s headliners, Blur, they were arguably the biggest band to have played Electric Picnic. With all interpersonal issues put to bed and energised with a new album, Blur were clearly enjoying themselves and the pressure is off. Damon had the crowd in the palm of his hand from early on. Every song was gold, from There’s No Other Way through Badhead, Beetlebum and This is a Low. A muted greeting for the likes of For Tomorrow and even To the End suggested the average audience age was lower than we thought, however. On the other hand, timeless classics such
Nice to see you too, Damon Albarn. Blur’s blistering set didn’t disappoint, with older classics to catch alongside contemporary tracks. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography.
as Song 2 and Parklife (performed with 11 fans plucked from the crowd – apparently one for each percentage of Irishness in Damon’s DNA) provided the greatest response from the crowd.
Sunday Jurassic 5 were the early afternoon crowd pleaser, with Cut Chemist and Dj Numark in tow. Concrete Schoolyard provided the biggest cheers of the afternoon, with heads bobbing in unison to a classic. With the all-Ireland hurling final shown on a big screen next to the Mindfield, there was plenty to keep punters busy. Heritage act Boomtown Rats gave it socks, with Geldof in great form, prowling the stage in his fake snakeskin suit,
Taking in the atmosphere at the Heineken Sound Atlas Tokyo area were Carmel Desmond and Karen Kenny
with killer tunes in tow. Later, Manic Street Preachers launched into Motorcycle Emptiness, and their energy spread throughout the crowd. A perfect slot to have them in, and they wasted none of the opportunity. It began here, six years ago for headliner Flor-
ence and the Machine. Now a festival headliner, her set was reminiscent of the Glastonbury headliner set back in June. As the closing echoes of a manic Dog Days are Over waved over us, it was time to see what we could salvage from the remainder of the evening.
GAZETTE
24 GAZETTE 17 September 2015
OUT&ABOUT
FastHEALTH Men, don’t delay – make Blue September the time to check up on cancer BLUE September has returned this year to raise awareness of, and start a dialogue on, male-specific cancers. This year, the campaign – which is sponsored by VHI Healthcare – aims to highlight men’s attitudes to their health and to encourage men to be more proactive about checking themselves for signs of cancer. To start this year’s campaign, the Men’s Cancer Alliance, in collaboration with Behaviour and Attitudes Research, conducted a survey of more than 900 Irish men of all ages and backgrounds and their knowledge of male-specific cancers, as well as their habits and attitudes towards their health. The findings showed a marked lack of knowledge of cancer among men. Examples of this included that almost half of men researched in the risk/age category for testicular cancer would not be confident in recognising the common symptoms of the illness. Some 80% of the men researched in the risk/age category for testicular cancer did not know that the best way to check for testicular cancer symptoms is a regular self-check. In addition, 81% of men aged 16 and over in Ireland have neither checked themselves or been checked by a doctor for a prostate or testes-related problem. Finally, 44% believed the reason for men being slower to visit their doctor compared to women is because they are afraid of finding out what the problem is, with 41% of respondents saying they would hope the symptoms would simply go away. Micheal Sheridan, of the Men’s Cancer Alliance, and chief executive of Mercy Hospital Foundation, said the group has produced a series of pocketsized fold-out leaflets, with each dedicated to specific cancers. He said: “These easy to read leaflets are available from Men’s Cancer Alliance website, at menscancer.ie. “We are asking the public to support this campaign by organising a fundraising event, or by making a donation via www.blueseptember.ie.”
Launching Blue September 2015 were Mary Moorehead, Men’s Cancer Alliance (MCA), Micheal Sheridan, MCA; Dr Bernadette Carr, medical director, VHI Healthcare; ex-Ireland Rugby International Tony Ward and Richard Flaherty, MCA
MUSIC HEALTH
ON CALL PT: EXERCISING AT HOME COULD BE PERFECT FOR YOU
The personal touch to push your training
SUZANNE SHEEHY
WITH the impending winter coming, there’re so many things to think about. Inevitably, you will get carried away with school runs, taking on a new routine for the winter months ahead. Plus, you will probably feel less energetic and getting in shape, so keeping your exercise routine going is less likely to be at the forefront of your mind as you just can’t find the time. If this sounds like you, On Call PT is the solution. This is a home training service where dedicated trainers come to you so you can train in your own living room or at home, making it easier than ever to get in shape. Once you contact On Call PT, you receive a free consultation. Your assigned trainer will come to your home. Body fat measurements, weight and blood pressure will be taken, and your trainer will also discuss your goals and your budget. What people don’t realise is that you don’t need a huge space – an average size front room is sufficient to get a great quality workout, while a big back garden will also suffice. I decided to try out On Call PT, and I found it very convenient. I was guided by my personal trainer, Dave Kenny, with a customised workout plan. All the equipment that I needed in my training session was provided, from resistant bands, kettlebells, power bag, body
Whether for one-to-one training or to work out with your friends, On Call PT could be the perfect answer. Personal trainer Dave Kenny (main) provided a comprehensive set of exercises to maximise results.
pump barbell and boxing gloves. My workout had great variety, with a mix up of mobility/flexibility and activation stretches, high-intensity exercise with short rest periods between sets. Working both the upper and lower body, I finished up with some core exercises, consisting of sit-ups, Russian twists, plank holds and plank side touches, and I certainly felt those muscles working! There was great structure and focus around my goals, and I found that there was no slacking
off during my workout, especially when things got tough. Kenny encouraged me, and challenged me to do more than I would have done on my own. You just have to dig a little deeper to push yourself. I would be keen on continuing monthly sessions to keep me focused and interested in my training.
Reasons Here are some words from On Call PT on the reasons to hire a personal trainer: 1. Motivation – training alone and motivat-
ing yourself can be hard. Pushing yourself to do that last rep when you are at the end of your session can be even harder. Our trainers are there to encourage, support and motivate you to ensure you get the best possible results from every workout. 2. Education – Our trainers take time with every client to go through the basics, ie correct form, lifting technique, stretches, etc. Knowing the basics will ensure that you execute your exercises correctly and will also help you to avoid any unnecessary injuries.
3. Support – Even when our trainers have left your home and your session is over, they are still there to support you. They offer online support for all clients. Whether it’s questions about your diet – or a pep talk to help you on the tough days – they can be contacted. Also, if you and your partner, or a group of friends, fancy getting together and training, then On Call PT can train you as a group. For further information, call 085 7704302, email oncallpt@mail.com, or see www.oncallpt.net.
17 September 2015 Gazette 25
GAMING interview: composer jessica curry
WEEBYTES
Noteworthy insights into how music can affect gaming READERS may recall my recent look at the beautiful, enigmatic PlayStation 4 title, Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture, and my focus on its haunting soundtrack by Baftanominated composer Jessica Curry. I caught up with Jessica last weekend, to learn first-hand a little more about her work and creative process. I began by asking her how she ended up composing computer game soundtracks, given that there aren’t many award-winning, critically acclaimed composers working in this field. “I was dragged into the games industry kicking and screaming! Dan Pinchbeck [creative director/studio head at games studio The Chinese Room] was writing his PhD on first-person shooters, and asked me to write some music for one of the experiments that was linked to his doctorate. “That game was Dear Esther [an award-winning, critically acclaimed and heavily narrative-driven title set on an unnamed island in the Hebrides], and the rest is history!” While every composer has their own unique voice, who would be your main inspirations – whether classic composers or any contemporary
shane dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com
bands and artists? “I have a really wide range of people who inspire me – Bach, The Cardiacs, Joni Mitchell, Thomas Newman, Durufle, Wim Mertens and the Nashville soundtrack are currently on my playlist. Told you it was eclectic!” Your most recent, and critically lauded, soundtrack for Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture is a beautiful and perhaps quintessentially Englishsounding score, mixing pastoral melodies with occasionally sombre yet uplifting choral segments. Have you ever felt pressured to create more generic scores? “The incredible part of the story is that I am also joint studio head at our company, The Chinese Room. This means that I can shape the titles that we make and there is never any pressure to conform to the norms of the games industry. “We make games that are very different to the usual fare that is presented, so that means I have free rein with the music –
it’s a joy.” When composing for a specific project such as Rapture, is there a principal hook that guides your work? What defines or guides your overall focus on a project? “As always in our games, the music goes much further than just providing the emotional core of the game, although that’s vital, too. We use music as a storytelling device – often using lyrics to give the player backstory and additional context for understanding the game or a specific character. “Rapture has been the most complicated score yet. Each of the six main characters has their own theme. The game is nonlinear and open-world, so the music had to act as a guide to the player. “Creating distinct themes for each main character was one way of helping the player to locate who they were listening to. Remember, there are no character visualisations in the game. “ The choir also form a really important part of the musical story in the game; in a way, taking on the role of a Greek chorus, commenting on the action as it unfolds. “They are also symbolic as, for me, the human voice represents so much of what this game is trying
Would-be American president, John McAfee
McAfee joins political race
Jessica Curry, an award-winning Bafta-nominated composer and joint studio head at games studio, The Chinese Room. Her most recent score accompanies Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture (below); a PlayStation 4 title set in a very pretty, deserted English village immediately after the apocalypse.
to say – we are here for such a short time, but it’s the connections that we form while we are here that matter.” Yo u ’ v e a l r e a d y notched up some very impressive credentials, with collaboration work taking in such diverse institutions as the Royal Opera House and Great Ormond Street Hospital. Do you ever find that your video game composing is seen as less worthy of your talents, or are you happy that fans and critics alike judge your work on its own merits? “I absolutely hate snobbery in any form, I just can’t abide it! Video games are as much a valid cultural form as anything else out there, and I will bare-knuckle fight anyone who says different!” Given such success, to date, can you see yourself setting aside gaming scores to focus on more ‘purist’ compositional work, or are you happy to just keep working on projects that you find engaging, regardless of their origin? “As in the past, I will continue accepting commissions that inspire and
JOHN McAfee – he of McAfee Antivirus software fame – has announced that he, too, is also running to be the next American president, as an Independent candidate. Famously described by Dean Barrow, the president of Belize, as being “extremely paranoid, even bonkers”, McAfee briefly went on the run in late 2012 in Belize after a neighbour of his was found dead of a gunshot wound, with McAfee blogging about his experiences of life on the lam and evading authorities. Turning up in Guatemala City, and eventually being deported to America, Belizean authorities went on to drop any charges against McAfee.
Jedi scrapes at Skelligs
excite me. The medium that the music plays in has always been the least interesting aspect of the work I undertake, and I can’t see that changing.” And, finally – what next for Jessica Curry? “I am about to embark on a wonderful commission that hasn’t been announced yet. It’s in
collaboration with a very famous contemporary poet, and the work will premiere at Durham Cathedral next year. I can’t wait!” The Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture soundtrack is available to buy on Amazon.com, priced £10.99/£6.99 digital download.
IT HAS just been revealed that Luke Skywalker (AKA actor, Star Wars icon and highly-popular gaming voiceover artist Mark Hamill) almost met an ignominious end at our own Skellig Michael last year. Hamill joined a long list of people who’ve slipped climbing steep steps at the monastic rocky outcrop, and almost fell to his death. Luckily, faster than a Jedi’s reflexes, a guide grabbed him, saving everyone’s favourite farm boy from Tatooine.
26 clondalkin gazette 17 September 2015
clondalkinCLASSIFIEDS IMPROVEMENTS
storage
TOP CLASS PAINTING Interior & Exterior painting. Damaged ceilings, walls repaired - like new 25 YRS
Call Colm EXPERIENCE 087 9700259 01-4570829
LEGAL & PLANNING APPLICATION
PLATINUM PAVING
ANNOUNCEMENT
Granite, Stone and Natural Stone Specialists.
DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS FROM â‚Ź975
0VS QSJDFT XJMM OPU CF CFBUFO $BMM GPS B RVPUF
.PCJMF 5FM &NBJM QMBUJOVNQBWJOHJF!HNBJM DPN XXX QMBUJOVNQBWJOH DPN ,$3 *OE &TUBUF ,JNNBHF %
We can now officially accept planning & legal notices from all four County Councils in greater Dublin region ¡ Standard rate from ₏75 + VAT ¡ Payment in advance
6Q UP
0''
Ph.01 601 0255
DVD TRANSFERS ďƒźVideo & Camera Tapes ďƒźCineFilms ďƒźPhotos & Slides converted to DVD ďƒźMusic & Titles added
DUBLIN Gazette newspaper HAVE OVER 200,000* READERS EACH WEEK *Publishers Statement
advertise your business to our readers call 01 60 10 240
17 September 2015 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27
CLONDALKINCLASSIFIEDS LANDSCAPING
REPAIRS
ALL BUDGET DRIVEWAYS
WINDOWS
• Driveways • Patios • Concrete Imprint • Decoration Walling • Fencing Natural & Coloured Stone PH: 0873900300 / 01 6971796 www.allbudgetdriveways.com allbudgetdriveways@yahoo.com Malahide Rd & Kimmage Rd
UP TO 50% OFF
46..&3
8*/%08 %003 4"-&
GET UP TO
35% OFF
VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS IN LUCAN VILLAGE
(O PPOSITE U LSTER B ANK
ON THE BRIDGE )
W EIR R ETAIL C ENTRE , 40 H ILLS M ILL I NDUSTRIAL E STATE , L UCAN V ILLAGE , C O . D UBLIN . T EL : 6217639
ABC CERTIFIED 51,340 COPIES EACH WEEK ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OVER 200,000* READERS EACH WEEK
CALL 01 60 10 240 *Publishers Statement
(ABC: Group MFD, July-Dec. 2014)
GOT A PHOTO? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 2 or email news@dublingazette.com
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS LOCAL
ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZET TE CALL 60 10 240
MATTERS
Gazette
28 gazette 17 September 2015
SPORT
FastSport Sandyford man makes switch to rotterdam: MITCH Darling made a stunning start to life with Rotterdam hockey club in the Netherlands after a last-ditch move to take up a professional contract last week. He scored on debut for the Dutch giants in a 4-2 win over Pinkoke in the first round of the Dutch season having only moved to the club three days earlier. The Sandyford native was part of the Irish side that finished in third place at the European Championships in London in late August and was initially due to play for Three Rock Rovers in Dublin in the upcoming season before the Dutch club came calling. Darling has previously played for SCHC and Den Bosch in the Netherlands and with KHC Leuven in Belgium. He joins a sizeable Irish contingent in European leagues with former TRR club mates Phelie Maguire (Voordaan) and Andy McConnell (Hurley) also in situ.
golf: royal dublin man renews us rivalries after six year break
Kearney teams up for PGA sport@dublingazette.com
NIALL Kearney’s last taste of team golf came in the Walker Cup on America’s east coast at Merion Golf Club,
Pennsylvania in 2009. Six years later, the Royal Dublin pro will again be representing Great Britain and Ireland on US soil but this time in the PGA Cup on
Kearney with the PGA Cup
the west coast at CordeValle, California, from September 18-20. Among his opponents in the Walker Cup was world top 10 player Rickie Fowler who helped the hosts win and America’s PGA pros will pose a similarly tough test as they bid to maintain their vice-like grip on the PGA Cup. Kearney is set to be a key part of Jon Bevan’s 10-man team which is aiming to create history by winning on US turf for the first time since the club pros’ equivalent of the Ryder Cup was first contested in 1973. Kearney, who secured his place in the team by winning the PGA Play-
Royal Dublin’s Niall Kearney
Offs last November, is relishing the challenge. “It is a trip I am really looking for ward to,” he said. “We had a get together at The Belfry where I met all the guys on the team that I didn’t know before and they’re are a great bunch. “The captain Jon Bevan is a great guy – they laid out the itinerary – it is simply unbelievable – five-star treatment – and we are so motivated to beat the US team.” The PGA Cup wasn’t on Kearney’s list of priorities when he teed up in last year’s PGA PlayOffs but it is filling his thoughts ever more as the date nears. “The PGA Cup was always in the back-
ground a bit, then gradually the paper work started to come through – getting the itinerary and then finally the gettogether at The Belfry – it is all building up now – it’s going to be something special “ T h e Wa l ke r C u p was back in 2009 – so that’s a long time ago. I enjoyed the team environment and the different formats. The Irish teams were great – really good times, we gelled really well and had some successful periods as well.” With GB&I having won just once since 1984, the pressure is on Kearney and his teammates to regain the magnificent Llandudno Trophy and Bevan has
been stoking the fires among his players. “ J o n ’s m o t i v a t i o n is that America don’t want to play it any longer simply because they don’t see it as a contest. That’s our motivation – that’s all we needed. “GB&I have been working really hard – they have a great team together, they are giving us the best chance of overturning the Americans. “The standard of the players competing on the GB&I team is really good, there are some very strong competitors. “They are golf guys – comfortable in the environment. I really think we can do well and win it.”
McCrystal and Boylan best of the Irish at Ras na mBan sport@dublingazette.com
Garda cycling club’s Eve McCrystal celebrates winning the best Irish rider category. Picture: Lorraine O’Sullivan
DUBLINER Lydia Boylan and Garda cycling club’s Eve McCrystal both finished in the top 10 on general classification following a fine performance at last week’s Ras na mBan. Boylan finished in sixth place overall, riding in the Team WNT bib, just 26 seconds off the pace set by eventual winner Stephanie Pohl from Germany. Boylan previously rode for Orwell Wheelers before moving across to Nottingham in England and, as such, was riding in
the British category. As such, despite finished 10 seconds further back, McCrystal was the top finisher in the Irish category with a ninth place finish overall after 390km of racing across six stages around Ireland at an average speed of 36.979km/h. Indeed, both riders did make a burst for glory on last weekend’s final stage when they raced clear in the closing kilometres, opening up an advantage of 15 seconds as the charged towards the line. But they were both caught
inside the final kilometre setting up the group sprint to the line taken in emphatic style by Scotland’s Eileen Roe in Ennis to deny them a huge victory. The former British Circuit Race champion powered up the finishing straight ahead of double stage winner Grace Garner (Team RST) from England and Germany’s Stephanie Pohl (South Netherlands-Energy HR). Pohl’s third place thus protected the seven-second advantage she held over Roe to secure overall honours in the tenth edition
of An Post Ras na mBan. Pohl is the second German winner of the event following Stephanie Gronow’s victory in the first event in 2006. Clare County Council Best Irish Rider was the preserve of McCrystal throughout the week and, after an early bike change, she was soon back in the pack ready to contend for stage honours. Best Irish team award went to the Richie’s Garda CC squad of McCrystal, Catherine McAteer, Orla Montague, Karen Robinson and Claire McIlwaine.
17 September 2015 gazette 29
Gazette
Iconic Fenway Park to host Dub hurlers Boston will play host to a unique contest in November when Dublin meet Galway in the new Super 11s format, the first time the city will host a game of this magnitude since 1954 nathan kelly
sport@dublingazette.com
ONE of the world’s most iconic sporting stadiums will host our own iconic sport this November after it was announced the Dublin Senior Hurlers will face Galway in Fenway Park. The home of the Boston Red Sox will host the AIG Fenway Hurling Classic on Sunday November 22. The announcement was made by AIG Insurance in Ireland, the GAA, the Gaelic Players’ Association (GPA), and Fenway Spor ts Management (FSM) on Tuesday in Croke Park. Launch events also took place in the famous Boston stadium after Boston Mayor Marty Walsh made the announce-
ment stateside. Director general of the GAA Paraic Duffy praised the importance of such an event. “It is encouraging to see the interest and impact our national game can have overseas and we’re delighted to be involved in this project for that reason,” he said. “Our overseas network is extremely important to us and bringing hurling to what is widely recognised as an Irish city outside Ireland is massively important to us. It will be an occasion to remember on November 22 as two excellent teams from Dublin and Galway demonstrate the best skills of our games.” The game will form part of an Irish Festival at Fenway Park on
the weekend where all aspects of Irish culture and music will be celebrated. It will be played the day after Boston College take on the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame at Fenway. The Dublin vs Galway clash will be a fresh experience for the intercounty stars as it will be played in the Super 11s format. Super 11s, which is the brainchild of the GPA, is an 11-a-side format of traditional hurling. It allows hurling to be played in stadiums and venues across the globe where the pitch size or playing area is smaller than that of a traditional pitch here in Ireland. Only goals can be scored in the format which may take some getting used to for the
Dublin senior hurler Dotsy O’Callaghan at the launch. Picture: Ramsey Cardy / Sportsfile
Dublin and Galway stars but specific training sessions will be organised by the GAA to ensure both sides are accustomed to the rules ahead of the match. Donal Og Cusack, chairman of the GPA, was also on hand to praise the idea at the
General manager of Dublin GA A’s sponsor AIG Ireland Declan O’Rourke, stated that the links between Boston and Ireland should make this a truly momentous occasion. “We are absolutely delighted and hugely proud to be able to bring
--------------------------------------------------------
‘I don’t need to explain the close ties Boston has to Ireland and why Fenway is a fitting venue’ - Declan O’Rourke
--------------------------------------------------------
Croke Park launch. “The AIG Fenway Hurling Classic is a truly wonderful opportunity for us to exhibit hurling at a high profile US sporting venue, and there is none more iconic than the home of the Red Sox,” he said. “We believe that hurling ranks alongside the best sports in the world and the staging of this game in Fenway is part of our commitment to convey that message to a new and influential audience.” It will be the first time since November 1954 that hurling will be played at the home of the Red Sox. It was back 61 years ago that the then All-Ireland champions Cork took on and defeated an American hurling selection.
hurling to the iconic Fenway Park in Boston. I don’t need to explain the close ties the city of Boston has to Ireland and that is why it is a fitting venue to play host to one of our national games.” Finally, Sam Kennedy, president of Fenway Sports Group, which is the parent company of the Boston Red Sox and Liverpool FC, was confident the Dublin and Galway hurlers can entertain his hometown fans. “Hurling is one of the most electrifying sports in the world and we think fans are going to enjoy watching all the fastpaced action as two of the most accomplished and talented counties compete on the pitch at Fenway Park.”
expertView
Top coach Bowes casts his eye over Rugby World Cup For the duration of the Rugby World Cup, former Edinburgh and Marlborough player Dennis Bowes, now a highly decorated coach working primarily with Barnhall, will give his thoughts on the key battlegrounds in the competition. It’s nearly here, four years in the waiting. As a teenager back in 1987 I set my alarm clock for 1.30am to wake up and watch France play Scotland in a thrilling 22 all draw in the first ever rugby world cup competing for the now famous William Webb Ellis Cup. And now we are here again for the eighth World Cup and what a fantastic spectacle it will be. This may prove to be the biggest and best so far with 20 teams playing in 13 venues in 48 games and, at 6pm on October 31, we will have our winner. Will we have a new name on the Webb Ellis? Or will the mighty All Blacks retain it This Friday, we get off to a flying start with the host nation and former winners playing the flying Fijian. Being a total romantic, I would love to see the upset of upset here and I do think this could prove to be one of the games of the tournament. This, I feel, could be a fascinating encounter with real physicality, pace and flare coming from the south sea islanders they are a real threat with ball in hand and if their set piece can hold they could do well here. One of the main areas to keep an eye on will be around the match officials and theriedecision making and the speed of the those decisions; how many times will we go to the TMO for simple decisions that could be made without the arm chair viewer losing the will to live; and how many reset scrums and penalty tries will we see? On the home front, a strong Ireland team go into battle on Saturday against a tough Canadian team. I see them coming through this in the last 20 minutes by 20+ points and building nicely into there pool, let’s hope injury free ,as their depth will count later in the group against French team that are very dangerous and unpredictable come World Cup time.
Gazette
30 clondalkin gazette 17 September 2015
SPORT
FastSport
soccer: neilstown club ready for the challenge of coill dubh
Newlands’ Bradshaw qualifies for Turkey final NEWLANDS Golf Club’s Dermot Bradshaw admitted his extra golf lessons paid off in style as he reached the Golfplan Insurance PGA Pro-Captain Challenge final in Turkey. Bradshaw teamed up with the Dublin club’s PGA professional Karl O’Donnell to win the Irish qualifying event at Luttrellstown Castle Golf and Country Club in Castleknock. The pair recorded an eight-under-par round of 64 to win by just one shot ahead of Seamus Clinton and Gerard Duffy of Letterkenny Golf Club. Bradshaw (pictured right) and O’Connell will now play in the £25,000 showpiece final to be held over the PGA Sultan Course at Antalya Golf Club in Turkey between November 25-26. But 57-year-old Bradshaw, who plays off a handicap of nine, was rewarded for his hours of practice. “I was just fed up of playing badly,” said Bradshaw, an IT manager who has been a member of Newlands for 40 years since joining the club as a junior member. “Once I realised the greenkeeper was driving the ball further than me, I realised it was time to get some lessons. “I’d been working with Karl and it looks like it’s worked out. “I knew I’d be playing more golf this year, but it wasn’t just that, I just wanted to play better. “And we had a great day, I’d never played golf like that before to be honest. “I was a bad nine handicapper and now I’m a better nine handicapper!” The pair never looked back after starting their round with three birdies in a row. They were six-under-par after the front nine and only suffered one blip with a bogey at the 13th hole. It will be O’Donnell’s first appearance in the final. “I’ve been trying for 26 years and now I’ve finally got there,” he said. “Dermot’s been having lessons and it would seem they’re working out for him. But he’s a work in progress!” smiled the Newlands head professional. “Dermot has been playing well recently so I thought we’d be in with a chance.”
Collinstown FC got back to winning ways ahead of the start of the Leinster Junior Cup
Collins’ Cup defence begins nathan kelly sport@dublingazette.com
COLLINSTOWN FC returned to winning ways last weekend and Kevin Carroll will be relieved his side did so ahead of their first ever game as reigning Leinster Junior champions this Sunday. A f ter an explosive start to their Premier A season, in which they won four games from four, scoring 17 goals and conceding just two, Collinstown were hammered by Kilbarrack United 5-1 on August 30. Kilbarrack looked red
hot on what was their opening game of the season and the result seemed to have shaken Collinstown, at least temporarily as they then crashed out of the Liddy Cup on penalties against Finglas United who they had already beaten 3-0 on the second day of the season. But the Collinstown College side returned to winning ways with a 2-1 win over an East Wall Bessborough who were joint top of the AUL top tier going into the game last Friday night in Clontarf. I t w a s E a s t Wa l l who started the better
marathon fourth Egan produces another world best in Hungary Salmon Leap’s Jenny Egan produced
her best result to date when she finished in fourth place in the women’s senior K1 race, over a 26.1km course, in Gyor, Hungary last Saturday at the world marathon championships. A year earlier, the Olympic hopeful had finished seventh at the same event, showing her steady rise on the world circuit. In late August, she also finished sixth at the world sprint championships.
Picture: David McDonald
but despite a number of chances from Tony Murray, Sean Martin and Gareth Arkins, they failed to get an early goal. Collinstow n’s first real attempt on goal came just after the half hour when pacey winger Mark O’Neill drifted inside his man and unleashed a shot but it was easily dealt with by Andrew Jones. It looked like it was to remain scoreless at the break but the league’s leading scorer Shane Murphy thought differently. His free kick from 25 yards was joy to behold
and curled way beyond the reach of East Wall’s substitute keeper Philip White. Ten minutes into the second half and the score was level. Arkins initially played the role as provider when he slipped through Sean Young but when the striker’s shot was saved, Arkins raced in to fire in the rebound. Collinstown responded well though and got the winner with about 15 left to play when Gareth Kenna floated a free-kick from the edge of the area straight into the top corner. Up next for Collins-
town is a trip to Kildare side Coill Dubh this Sunday in the first round of the LFA Leinster Junior Cup. The ’Town won the competition last season, famously beating Sheriff YC with a heroic performance in Tallaght Stadium in May. It is the biggest honour in the club’s still reasonably short history so far, and despite everyone knowing the FAI Junior Cup is the one they so crave on the Neilstown Road, Kevin Carroll will be doing his all to keep hold of the Leinster Junior for as long as possible.
17 September 2015 CLONDALKIN gazette 31
Gazette
golf classic
Rushe among stars at St Pat’s fundraiser
Club Noticeboard Round tower, clondalkin THANK you to all who helped make
dublin senior hurler Liam Rushe, pictured
Round Tower Family Fun Day 2015
left, was among the many people to take part in the St Pat’s, Palmerstown memorial golf classic at Slade Valley last weekend, including many well known faces from around the county. It was part of a day of events for the west Dublin club with many of the golfers repairing to Palmerstown House for a Decades Disco in the evening.
such an excellent success. We had a great turn-out and thank you to all who supported the event. Thanks in particular to Sean and Liam who pulled the strings to bring it together.
hurling: plunkett’s too strong in late sprint
county in the past season.
miserations lads. The minor footballers were beat-
in Croke Park on Sunday.
We need volunteers to assist. Can you spare an hour during the day on Saturday or Sunday morning? Email info@roundtower.ie or text 087 9082970 if you can do so. Best wishes to all competing in the club’s mini leagues this week on
Dubs.
Monastery Road - kids U-7 to U-12
week develops. News of club activit y during the week will also be posted to the website and our social media accounts. Win two premium stand tickets to the All-Ireland football final in the
ROUND Tower’s senior hurlers championship campaign finished at the penultimate stage in what proved, in the end, a resounding win for St Oliver Plunkett’s. The men from Navan Road highlighted the class of a side that has consistently competed at senior hurling level with an impressive performance that saw them record at 13-point victory at Parnell Park. It looked ominous within the opening six
weekend.
All-Ireland football final week:
posted to the club website as the
the middle and the ball broke to Ryan who pulled first time to finish low beyond the keeper. Finn’s next run saw him hauled down and Stapleton pointed to reduce the margin to three points. Sadly for Tower’s they could not kick on and were reduced to 14 players when Moran received a second yellow card. Plunkett’s struck some excellent scores as Tower’s struggled to create openings. With 12 minutes remaining nine points separated the sides and a further 1-4 saw the Ashtown club run up a lopsided scoreline in spite of prior events.
Next Saturday and Sunday, we host our annual bucket collection
Best of luck to Jim, Frank and the News regarding tickets will be
created a chance which Brian McLaughlin broke on to to finish low to the keeper’s right. Tower’s fans had only taken their seats when McLaughlin was again in behind the rearguard and again struck low to give the keeper no chance, making it 2-5 each. But Plunkett’s got back in the ascendancy in jigtime with a third goal to build a 3-12 to 2-8 halftime lead. Eoin Ryan was sprung from the bench to move in full forward for the second period and the benefits were instantly reaped. Eric Finn drew defenders with a run at pace through
Well done to Emma O’Malley and Riona McTavish who were presentship medals after representing the
Ireland intermediate camogie final
minutes forTower’s. Plunkett’s raced into a sevenpoint lead – 2-2 v 0-1. A flick pass by Eoin Walsh enabled Paidi Stapleton strike the opening score within the minute. But the goals were serious setbacks; the first was a long-range strike that deceived Tower’s keeper Fergal McDonagh and the second saw Plunkett’s Stuart Mullen break behind Tower’s rearguard and strike low across McDonagh’s left. The Clondalkin side responded brilliantly, though, as Brian Gregg and Stapleton reduced the gap to six points. Gary Quinlivan then
Tickets priced at €5 or three for €10.
final to St Oliver Plunkett’s. Com-
Jenny Byrne who refereed the All-
St Oliver Plunkett’s/ER 4-22 Round Tower 3-12 sport@dublingazette.com
now!).
ed with their Leinster champion-
Congratulations to our very own
senior b semi-final
tower.ie (click the link to purchase
The senior hurlers were defeated
pionship clash.
Round Tower’s run comes to a close
Buy your tickets in the club or simply play online at www.round-
in the senior B championship semi
en by Thomas Davis in the B Cham-
The Round Tower senior B hurlers saw their best championship season ended last weekend
Round Tower draw.
will participate. Round Tower lotto, September 7: jackpot €9,200 and the numbers drawn were 12, 18, 28 and 30; the bonus ball was 7. There was no jackpot or bonus ball winner; three € 100 winners were Quinn Banks, John McDaid, Yvonne Dixon c/o Eugene Ryan.
ST pat’s palmerstown A MASSIVE thank you goes out to all
nately, our U-15 camogie team lost
involved in our golf classic and Dec-
away to Naomh Mearnog.
ades Disco on Saturday. The weather was great and the
Great morning on Saturday for our U-8s in a hurling blitz with
golfers enjoyed the day in Slade
Ranelagh Gaels and Lucan Sars-
Valley, the disco was a great suc-
fields; thanks to all the parents for
cess with some dodgy singing but a
the help.
great night was had by all.
Hard luck to the U-14s against
Thanks to everyone that organ-
Kilmacud on Saturday. Hard luck
ised the events and that partici-
to the U-15 football team who were
pated in the events. Thanks to all
beaten by Cuala the in champion-
our supporters who all helped make
ship.
the day the great success that it was.
Brilliant game of football from the minor team in the championship,
Hurling and camogie skills ses-
they managed to salvage a draw.
sions are starting back this Friday
Super win on Saturday for our U-16
at 6pm in Glenaulin.
footballers against Castleknock.
Football/hurling/camogie creche
The senior hurlers were unlucky
is on in the Pobail School Hall every
to lose out to Lucan on Frida y
Monday evening 6-7pm and on Sat-
night.
urday morning from 10-11am in the
The senior footballers had a fan-
clubhouse. New pla yers alwa ys
tastic win against St Sylvester’s
welcome.
in the championship on Monday
Weather permitting, we hope to
night.
go ahead with our Fun Day on Satur-
The lotto numbers for this week
day, September 19. Keep an eye on
were 7, 8, 24 and 25; there was no
Facebook and emails for updates.
winner so next week’s jackpot will
Well done to Sadhbh Duffy who
be €4,200. The draw takes place in
played and scored a great point
the Palmerstown House every Sun-
on Saturday in Antrim for the U-15
day night at 10pm and tickets cost
camogie Dublin team. Unfor tu-
€2.
GazetteSPORT all of your clondalkin sports coverage from page 28-31
title defence: Collinstown begin their bid for a second successive Leinster Junior Cup crown P30
september 17-23, 2015
shipping out to boston: Dublin hurlers set for fixture in iconic Fenway Park P29
Gavin calm about All-Ireland prospects nathan kelly
sport@dublingazette.com
JUST days away from his second All-Ireland Senior Football Championship final as Dublin manager, Jim Gavin still manages to exude the sense of calmness that seems ever-present in his interviews. He is hoping to repeat the victory he steered Dublin to against Kerry in the 2013 final which was his first year in charge as senior manager. In the lead-up to Sunday’s game against the Kingdom, Gavin spoke highly of the opposition. “Certainly from a Dublin perspective we’d have the ultimate respect for Kerry and what they’ve achieved,” he said.
“They have an outstanding team of players and a lot of youth coming in there and pushing hard for places. “I think there have only been five or six players who have started in all their championship games which is a testament to the squad and how they’ve rotated. It really will be the finishing team that will challenge for honours on Sunday.” Dublin booked their place in the final after an epic two games against Mayo. After the original semi-final finished in a draw, Gavin’s charges eventually saw off the Westerners 3-15 to 2-14 in the replay. Dublin had earlier in the season cruised to another Leinster final success
but Gavin insisted even the lowerprofile games played their part. “I think the Leinster campaign was still a tough challenge for us,” said the 1995 All-Ireland winning half-forward. “We did a lot of work going into those games, we played with a high level of respect for the teams we were playing and prepared accordingly for them. “So those results didn’t just happen; players had to prepare and bring performances to the plate, the Leinster Championship means a lot to this Dublin team and we were very proud to win it this year. “But in the championship series, certainly the Fermanagh game was another level,” he con-
tinued. “They certainly put us under pressure in the last quarter of the game. You want to be careful about what you wish for but in hindsight, the two games [vs Mayo] have served us well, they were two cracking games against a cracking Mayo team.” Many in the capital are wondering how the Dubs will deal with Kerry’s specific threats but Gavin insisted the focus has been more on his own team’s strength’s. “From the Dublin perspective,” he said. “We’ve done most of our work in the last two weeks on our game and trying to get our game right. And if we can do that we’ll hopefully put ourselves in a position to get a result.”
Dublin manager Jim Gavin