Clondalkin

Clondalkin GAZET TE FREE

SEPTEMBER 20, 2012

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BBRIDE&GROOM: Our guide for planning your y perfect day P19

OPINION: Moneylenders must be regulated, says Eoin O Broin (SF) P7

On a fundraising drive: Walkers help Pieta House KING of the culchies, Pat Short,

Football: Round Tower pin down home AFL2 playoff Page 31

Soccer: Peamount pick up two wins over Shelbourne Page 30

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was delighted to join Munster and Ireland rugby player Alan Quinlan to lead a group of walkers recently, with everyone there to help support a “Tomathon”.

The stars and walkers were supporting hotelier Tom Moran, owner of the Moran and Bewley’s Hotel Group, on his 250km charity walk from Limerick to Dublin in aid of local charity and suicide awareness organisation, Pieta House.

Tom’s fundraising Tomathon is expected to conclude this Friday evening at the Red Cow Inn.

A big hand for Tidy Towns volunteers We know what I HIROMI MOONEY

to do to win next year – Cllr Gilligan

CLONDALKIN’S Tidy Towns committee were praised last week after the results of the judging in the 2012 SuperValu National Tidy Towns Awards were announced.

Saluting the efforts of the Clondalkin committee, Coun-

cillor Trevor Gilligan (FF) said: “A lot of time and energy has gone in over the past few weeks into Clondalkin Tidy Towns.

“I would like to thank volunteers, the committee, business owners and everyone who got involved.

“I believe that this is only the start for Clondalkin Tidy

Towns, and the only way we can go is up.

“We have the results and responses from the Tidy Towns, so we know what to do for next year. Clondalkin is the best place to live. The competition for next year has started,” said Cllr Gilligan.

Full Story on Page 3

2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 20 September 2012

SPORT Everyone has a ball at Clondalkin RFC Open Day

Enjoying the day with Leo the

Sandra Flood, Michael Heaney and baby

Lion and the Heineken Cup

Darragh with the Heineken Cup

David, Kaleum, Philip and Elena Gibson with Leo the Lion and the Heineken Cup. Pictures: Sharon Flanagan

Cup overfloweth with rugby fun Under 13s team with the Heineken Cup

LONDALKIN RFC recently held its Family Open Day where members of the public and their families were invited to attend. Hundreds gathered for the day that saw members and players show off the great facilities available there. The team also encouraged residents to become new members and/ or supporters of the growing rugby family.

Activities on the day included bouncy cas-

C

tles and face painting for the younger visitors, as well as competitions such as darts, pool and drop goal competitions. Visitors also had a chance to taste Clondalkin’s famous BBQ and a DJ played into the night.

The Clondalkin Rugby Family Open Day was held in conjunction with Leinster Rugby as part of their open days. For further information, visit www.clondalkinrugby.com.

20 September 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3

COMMUNITY Volunteers thanked for contest efforts

Clondalkin’s Tidy Towns score is out

I HIROMI MOONEY

CLONDALKIN achieved a total of 202 out of 400 points in the SuperValu National Tidy Towns Awards for 2012.

Praising the efforts of the Clondalkin committee, Councillor Trevor Gilligan (FF) said: “A lot of time and energy has gone in over the past few weeks into Clondalkin Tidy Towns.

“I would like to thank volunteers, the committee, business owners and everyone who got involved.

“I believe that this is only the start for Clondalkin Tidy Towns and the only way we can

go is up.

“We have the results and responses from the Tidy Towns, so we know what to do for next year.

Clondalkin is the best place to live. The competition for next year has started,” he said.

Lucan achieved 283 out of 400 points in the adjudication. Mairead McGowan, member of the Lucan Tidy Towns committee, said: “We’re delighted with this achievement.

“Around three or four new areas have entered [the competition] this year and they’ve done quite well. It’s obviously going to put pressure on us [in future], but it’s

good.”

Both Clondalkin and Lucan were congratulated for their achievements by local representatives.

Echoing Cllr Gilligan’s praise for Clondalkin, Fine Gael TD Derek Keating congratulated the Lucan Tidy Towns committee members for their hard work, and on being successful for another year.

He said: “It is always a pleasure, as a resident, a local TD, and a former member of Lucan Tidy Towns, to walk around my village and enjoy the wonderful environs as a result of my friends in our Tidy Towns Committee.”

Local Labour Party TD

COUNCIL

€36,000 spent on drainage I HIROMI MOONEY

Clondalkin’s Tidy Towns Committee were praised for their hard work in the area, with FG Deputy Derek Keating’s comments for adjoining Lucan echoing the appreciation local representatives have for citizens’ efforts to keep their communities looking their best

Robert Dowds also congratulated the towns for their performance in the competition.

In a statement, he said: “It really is heartwarming to see so many people getting involved in improving their own communities through hard work.

“On behalf of the community, I want to thank everyone who has been involved in the Tidy Towns effort this year, and wish everyone the best of luck in next year’s competition.”

Clondalkin Tidy Towns meet ever y Tuesday evening at 6.30pm and

every Saturday morning at 10am in the Tuthills car park in the village.

Lucan Tidy Towns meet every Saturday at 10am in the layby below St Mary’s Church on the Lucan Road.

Both tidy towns committees welcome new members at any time.

SOUTH Dublin County Council has spent €36,000 to undertake three major drainage works in the local area recently.

Fianna Fail councillor Trevor Gilligan said the council spent €27,000 on drainage in Lealand Drive to divert surface water to a new outfall; €5,000 on the installation of two gullies and a surface water drain in Lealand Road, and €4,000 on the installation of four double gullies and a connection to the new road surface water division, diverting away from the collapsed water pipe at Woodford Downs.

Cllr Gilligan said he was delighted that these works have taken place.

“Flooding is a serious issue for households, especially when it has an effect on the price of their insurance or, indeed, if they will even be given insurance.”

4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 20 September 2012

POLITICS Labour, Fianna Fail in war of words HSE TALKS:

AGREEMENT ON ROSTERS

Keating praises progress in health

Labour deputy Robert Dowds’ attack on Fianna Fail’s opposition to the household tax was refuted by Fianna Fail Councillor Trevor Gilligan, who pointed out the Labour Party leader’s previous opposition to a property tax

Bitter exchange over property tax Why advertise with the Gazette?

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B E C A U S E L O C A L M AT T E R S

I HIROMI MOONEY

LOCAL Labour Party TD Robert Dowds has hit out at Fianna Fail for their new-found opposition to a property tax, labelling it as “brazen populism”.

He said that the stance the par ty has taken comes in spite of the fact that it was the “disastrous Fianna Fail government” that signed off on the EU-IMF bailout “which committed the State to introducing a property tax in the first place”.

Deputy Dowds added: “Micheal Martin and the rest of Fianna Fail have some neck to come out against the property tax, which they themselves signed the country up for as part of the bailout.

“What makes it even worse is that this tax has the potential to completely overhaul how local government works

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

‘Micheal Martin and the rest of Fianna Fail have some neck to come out against the property tax, which they themselves signed the country up for as part of the bailout’

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

Robert Dowds, Lab

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in Ireland, and to help put an end to the ‘cowboy culture’ of dodgy land rezoning which was so closely associated with Fianna Fail.

“The new property tax will provide a stable

source of income for local authorities which they have been crying out for since Fianna Fail abolished rates in 1978.

“Property taxes are also ver y fair taxes, a s t h e y a r e g e n e rally skewed so that the wealthiest people pay the most and the poorest pay the least,” said Deputy Dowds.

In response to the deputy’s comments, local Fianna Fail councillor Trevor Gilligan said that as each week passes, “the language used by Labour backbenchers to criticise those with different views on how we should address the economic crisis becomes shriller and more hysterical”.

Cllr Gilligan said: “With 40% of all households unable to pay the €100 household charge, record numbers of families in arrears or in negotiation with the banks,

and an entire section of society on middle incomes at the pin of their collars, we simply do not believe that introducing a property tax at this time is appropriate or sustainable.

“If Deputy Dowds doesn’t want to listen to homeowners, he might take a moment to look back on the comments of his leader, Eamon Gilmore, who, as recently as October, 2010, promised the Evening Herald that the Labour Party would not introduce a property tax.

“Similarly, in July, 2010, he said: ‘It would be perverse to ask people to pay a property tax on a property on which they are paying a mortgage, and the size of the mortgage, in many cases, is more than what the value of the property is worth’,” said Cllr Gilligan.

LOCAL Fine Gael TD Derek Keating has congratulated the Minister for Health, Dr James Reilly, for the progress made in negotiations with hospital consultants regarding the areas of rostering and work practices.

Deputy Keating congratulated Minister Reilly following a breakthrough which was reached between hospital consultants and the Health Service Executive at the Labour Relations Commission (LRC) earlier this week.

He said: “While some matters remain outstanding, major progress has been made. By moving to a seven-day rostering system, the Minister estimates we can save up to €200 million a year, while better meeting the needs of patients.

Effective “The move to cut the pay of new entrants to the profession also means that we will reduce our pay bill as we move forward, which is crucial for the effective functioning of the health service.

“This Government has been tasked with completely overhauling how we deliver our health services. Consultants are often referred to as the ‘lynchpins’ of reform; I believe the progress reached at the LRC will pave the way for a change in how our senior medics work.

“It will be a crucial step as we seek to change the way we run our hospitals,” said Deputy Keating.

20 September 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5

6 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 20 September 2012

HOUSING: SCHOOLS: COMPETITION HIGHLIGHTS 1913 EVENT SHARED OWNERSHIP

Council outlines payment options I HIROMI MOONEY

Help mark the Great Lockout

I HIROMI MOONEY

SOUTH Dublin County Council (SDCC) has outlined a number of options available to tenants in the shared-ownership scheme who are having difficulties with keeping up their payments.

The options were outlined following local Fine Gael councillor William Lavelle’s question to the county manager at the September county council meeting last week.

The council replied that they have a “policy of early intervention for shared ownership borrowers who fall into arrears”.

The council response continued: “Our staff can discuss the customer’s circumstances with a view to making an arrangement to pay that is both suitable to both the customer and the council. There is an application form for reduced instalments available.

“It is in the best interest of the borrower to work closely with the council on the matter as, where customers continually do not make payments on their account, or continually break agreed arrangements, or do not co-operate with the council, then legal proceedings will have to commence.

“Where repossession does occur, the borrowers are given the option to go on the council’s housing list, subject to the conditions under the current allocations scheme.”

A COMPETITION to commemorate the centenary of the 1913 Great Lockout in Dublin has been launched in local schools.

T h e “ 1913 G r e a t Lockout and its role in the development of the Nation” competition will be open to senior cycle students from secondary schools in Lucan, Clondalkin, Palmerstown or Rathcoole.

Entries can comprise a musical performance or a dramatic performance, essay, project, art piece, sculpture piece, computer presentation or web page.

Competitions There will be separate competitions for individual entries and group entries.

The Best Individual entry will receive a trophy for the school and a €200 cheque for the winner, and the Best Group Entry will receive a trophy for the school and a €700 cheque for the winners.

The winners will be decided by an independent panel of judges based on originality, creativity, content and performance or presentation.

Local Labour Party TD Robert Dowds, who launched the competition, said it was very important to give the

Deputy Robert Dowds, Lab

1913 Great Lockout the “recognition which it deserves”.

He said: “I have written to every school in the area to invite them to enter the competition, and I hope that students in the area will be able to use their creativity to commemorate the event,” he said.

“The criteria have been left deliberately wide so that students with many different types of skills, be they academic, dramatic or musical, can use their talents in this competition.

“I would encourage students in the area who have an interest in this to talk to their history teachers and to send an email to robert.dowds@ oir.ie to express their interest before the end of October,” said Deputy Dowds.

Competition entries must be ready to be displayed or performed to judges before the end of next March, and the winners will be announced next April.

Bachelor’s full of beans: Tom has every reason to look happy, thanks to his shortlisted title ...

LOCAL bachelor Tom Lyons looks full of beans – then again, he has every reason to be smiling, as the Clondalkin man has been shortlisted as one of Stellar Magazine’s top-20 bachelor lads. Locals are being urged to help support Tom in the contest, and see him crowned as Stellar Magazine’s third annual Bachelor of the Year ahead of the winner being chosen on October 11. To nominate Tom, text BACHELOR111 to 53307 (operator charges may apply).

Korean badminton ace flies in to open renovated sports hall I HIROMI MOONEY

AN CAISLEAN Nua Badminton Club at the Roadstone Group Sports and Social Club in Clondalkin will launch their newly-renovated sports hall this Sunday, September 23.

The hall will be launched by world-renowned Korean badminton coach Lee Jae Bok who recently worked with Badminton Ireland to prepare Ireland’s badminton

Olympians ahead of the London 2012 Games.

The club’s chairman, Neil Cody, said he was “absolutely delighted” that Lee Jae Bok is attending the launch.

“He’s a phenomenal individual. He’s just extremely knowledgeable and such a friendly person,” said Cody.

The launch day will include two coaching sessions for club members, from 11am to 1.30pm, and from 2.30pm to 5pm.

The renovation includes a full upgrade to the floor surface, new energy-efficient lighting and a fully repainted hall. The sports hall is the first in Ireland to have a matte floor, with a shiny court lining finish to help support players who suffer from visual impairment.

Cody said that the renovation has been a “great community effort”.

He added: “It’s a really exciting project. It has taken

nearly three weeks to complete, so the turnaround has been absolutely fantastic.

“It’s totally different to what it used to look like, and the walls are really fresh in colour.

“I’m really proud of it. It puts the club in a great place now in the community for what we’re trying to achieve, and it puts in a real foundation for the club to scale up into the future.

“It’s something that I’m

ultimately proud of; it’s giving something back to our members and the centre as well,” said Cody.

Local Fianna Fail Councillor Trevor Gilligan is a member of the badminton club, and said that he was delighted about the launch.

He said: “They’re a dedicated team and they’ve done really well over the past number of years. I think the club will go from strength to strength.”

The badminton club has grown in the last years from 20 members and two teams in season 2010/11 to 60 members and more than 12 teams in season 2012/13.

The club has also won awards for Badminton Ireland Website of the Year 2011 and 2012, and Badminton Ireland Club of the Year for Leinster 2011.

For information on how to join the club, see www. ancaisleannua.com.

20 September 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 7

OPINION ‘Ireland needs to follow lead of other EU states’

Runaway moneylender rates must be tackled

Dublin Mid-West Sinn Fein representative EOIN O BROIN calls for greater regulation ACROSS the country, low- and middle-income families are struggling to get by. As each month passes, the recession bites deeper.

Unemployment, wage cuts, tax increases, the household charge, cuts to rent supplement and rising mortgage distress are pushing more and more families into severe financial hardship.

Hundreds of thousands of people are turning to moneylenders to make ends meet.

On a daily basis, families are forced to make impossible decisions – do they pay their gas or electricity bill, or do they pay their mortgage or rent?

And, when faced with such impossible choices, many are getting into even greater levels of debt just to get by.

Approximately 40% of people have borrowed to pay their household bills in the past 12 months, with 10% of these borrowing from licensed moneylenders. More than 300,000 people turn to licensed moneylenders every year. Many more go to illegal loan sharks.

Incredibly, there is no cap on the rates of interest that licensed moneylenders can charge.

Some lenders charge an APR of up to 210%. What

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‘Provident is the largest [commercial moneylender] in the Irish market. Here, they charge an APR of 187% – almost 10 times what the same company charges in Poland’

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

TD or Government minister could support such high charges?

In fact, the only reason lenders can charge such excessive rates is because no Government has placed a cap on interest rates.

As a result of the inaction of the Oireachtas, some lenders are getting rich on the backs of hard-pressed families.

Last week, Sinn Fein tabled a Private Members’ Bill in the Dail to cap moneylenders’ interest rates at 40% APR. Across the EU, many EU member states operate interest rate caps on licensed moneylenders.

In Belgium, for exam-

ple, the cap ranges from 10% to 19.5% APR. In France, the range is from 5.7% to 21.6%, while in Spain, the rate is 10%.

In 2006, Poland introduced a 20% APR cap.

The largest commercial moneylender in Poland is Provident – after the cap was introduced, Provident continued to trade profitably.

Provident is also the largest lender in the Irish market. Here, they charge an APR of 187% – almost 10 times what the same company charges in Poland.

Despite the clear evidence that such caps work, Fine Gael and Labour opposed the Sinn Fein Bill last week in the Dail. They did so on the spurious grounds that a cap of 40% would drive licensed moneylenders into the black market.

There is no evidence to support this claim. In fact, all of the evidence demonstrates that caps work. Lenders can continue to make profit without borrowers paying through the nose for their loans.

Of the 13 EU member states that operate caps, the average ceiling is 20%. In these countries, politicians have decided that there is a limit to the amount of interest that licensed money lenders

Eoin O Broin: Sinn Fein’s Bill to regulate moneylender rates was rejected by Fine Gael and Labour in the Dail

can charge, particularly when lending to lowincome families struggling under the weight of household debt.

Last week in the Dail, Fine Gael and Labour had a chance to take a stand against excessive interest rates. They could have supported the Sinn Fein Bill and, in doing so, reduced the financial hardship of tens of thou-

sands of hard-pressed families.

They chose not to. All four Dublin Mid-West TDs voted against the cap. Minister Fitzgerald and Deputies Keating, Tuffy and Dowds supported the status quo.

They supported the right of licensed moneylenders to charge interest rates of up to, and beyond, 210%.

That the Fine Gael deputies took the side of the financial industry should surprise no one, but for our two Labour deputies to support such excessive interest rates is genuinely shocking.

Excessive interest rates push hard-pressed families further into financial stress and poverty.

There is no moral or economic justification

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for the absence of a cap on interest rates charged by licensed moneylenders.

T h e l aw m u s t b e changed. Unfortunately, it looks like we will have to wait for a change of Government before our laws are made in the interests of the people, rather than the interests of the banks and moneylenders.

8 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 20 September 2012

SCHOOLS Examining Junior Cert results at St Kevin’s CS

The results added up to a great tally for local lads Paul McMahon, William Carpenter and Stephen Kavanagh, Chantelle Ward, Luke Melaugh and Charlene Craig

pictured with maths teacher Fintan Sheridan. Pictures: Ian Fleming

Ready for the next challenge S

by several staff members to congratulate students and discuss their results, as the boys and girls from Clondalkin, Lucan, Palmerstown and further afield examined the results of their first major tests in the second-level system.

Ashling Caffrey, religion Principal Pat Lowry

teacher

Daniel Kearney, Peadar Cassidy, Dylan Sullivan and Patrick Moran and Annmarie Ward, Irish teacher

Suzanne Graham

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TUDENTS were delighted with their Junior Cert results at St Kevin’s Community College, Clondalkin when the brown envelopes finally arrived at the school recently.

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is correct. The Lucan, Clondalkin, Castleknock and

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20 September 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9

10 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 20 September 2012

LAUNCH Domino’s roll out a new range of gourmet food

Siobhan O’Connor and Leanne Moore

Chef Andrew Rudd gets some help from the Wine Friendly crew at the evening’s launch

He’s Rudd-y to serve delicious new pizzas UESTS from across the city tucked into a delicious night out in the city centre recently, as chef Adam Rudd’s new studio in Drury Street hosted a Domino’s Pizza launch.

With Adam overseeing the flavourful fun, a range of pizzas, sides and

G

Tracey and Michelle Dolan

desserts were enjoyed by all, with wine from Wine Friendly proving a perfect complement to the fare.

Television personality Leanne Moore joined “Gossip Girl” Siobhan O’Connor to have a go at pizza making, but their game attempts were surpassed by the new Domino’s range.

Jennifer Maguire

Sinead O’Connor and Rebecca O’Neill

The new gourmet range has been designed to provide a “lighter” pizza with distinctive flavour, with tempting ingredients in the range including roast chicken breast, baby spinach, Greek feta cheese, Peruvian roquito peppers and more, providing something for everyone to tuck into.

Lynsey Murtagh and Gill Verrecchia

Allanna Hennessy

Charlotte and John McLoughlin

20 September 2012 GAZETTE 11

THEATRE Ballymun stages festival for eighth year

Axis premieres Beckett in Irish bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

THE world premieres of four Samuel Beckett plays which have been translated into Irish by Gabriel Rosenstock will take place in the Axis Theatre in Ballymun this October.

As part of the Borradh Buan Irish Language Festival, which runs from October 15 to 27, the Mouth on Fire Theatre Company will stage Blogh, which is the Irish translation of Beckett’s Rough for Theatre 1 and Rocabai, the Irish version of Rokaby.

The newly translated works will be performed by an ensemble under the title Ag Taibhreamh ar … nGra (Dreaming of … Love). There will

also be a performance of a selection of Beckett’s poems which have been translated.

Mother, father and son acting team Geraldine Plunkett, Peadar Lamb and Marcus Lamb will share the stage with actors Melissa Nolan and Jennifer Laverty. The Beckett poems will be read by Gabriel Rosenstock and Nick Devlin.

Festival

These productions, which have received backing from Dublin City Council and Foras na Gaeilge, are part of Borradh Buan 2012, which is Ireland’s only festival of its kind and is in its eighth year.

Announcing details of the production, Cathal Quinn, artistic director

of Mouth on Fire, said the theatre company was extremely honoured to be staging new interpretations of Beckett’s work and has even received touring requests from Britain, Japan and Canada.

“The Beckett estate is known for the scrupulous care it takes to safeguard the integrity of Beckett’s writing – and rightly so,” said Quinn. “So we were thrilled to be granted the rights to translate some of his short plays into Irish, and to stage these in Irish for the very first time.”

The world premiere of Blogh and Rocabai are on Friday, October 26, in the Axis in Ballymun, tickets cost from €8 to €12, and are available by calling 01 883 2100.

M

I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN

Top Wedding Tips: Our complete guide for planning your perfect day The world premieres of four Samuel Beckett plays which have been translated into Irish will take place in the Axis Theatre in Ballymun this October

BRIDE&GROOM PAGES 19-27

12 GAZETTE 20 September 2012

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SNAPSHOT The local stories of the day

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Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Westlife singer Nicky Byrne with fifth class students from St Peter and Paul’s National Boys’ School, Baldoyle, to launch the 2012 Cheerios Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Childline Breakfast Together Week3

Byrne helps to raise funds for Childline WESTLIFE singer Nicky Byrne dropped in to see the fifth class students from St Peter and Paul’s National Boys’ School, Baldoyle, to launch the 2012 Cheerios Childline Breakfast Together Week.

Byrne, a former pupil of the school, was there in his capacity as an ambassador for the ISPCC. The children’s charity are asking as many people as possible – schools, creches, companies,

DIARY coffee shops, friends and families – to come together, hold a breakfast event and raise much-needed funds for Childline.

Childline is entirely funded by the Irish public, so their support is vital.

Funds raised will help Childline volunteers to answer more calls from vulnerable children and

young people in Ireland who have nowhere else to turn.

The Cheerios Childline Breakfast Together Week will take place from October 8 to 14. To register, log on to www. childlinebreakfast.ie, or call 1850 50 40 50.

Meeting Packie Bonner STAFF from the Beacon

Hospital in Sandyford, and former Irish goalkeeping legend Packie Bonner are heading to the National Ploughing Championships on September 26 to play an outdoor exhibition match in the Health and Wellness section of the trade show, from 12 noon to 2pm.

People who come to visit the UPMC Beacon stand will get the chance to meet the sporting hero afterwards.

Chartered physiotherapists will be on hand at the stand over the three days of the ploughing championships, advising on injury prevention and management.

Free analysis

They will also offer simple fitness tests for the more than 189,000 expected visitors to the three-day exhibition, and will offer free gait analysis for visitors.

A hotel stay worth €500 will also be won by one lucky visitor to the Beacon stand.

The Ploughing Championships will take place between Tuesday and Thursday, September 25 to 27 in New Ross, Co Wexford.

20 September 2012 GAZETTE 13

COMPETITION €10,000 worth of vouchers to be won

Search for the country’s most musical school THE Waltons Music for Schools Competition is looking for the country’s most musical school.

The competition will award a total of €10,000 worth of vouchers for

musical instruments, accessories, books, music technology or PA equipment from Waltons Music.

Awards will be divided among six winning primary and post-primary

schools, including two first prizes of €3,000 vouchers, and music groups from 12 finalist schools will have the fantastic opportunity to perform in the National Concert Hall.

Entry forms are available to download from www.waltons.ie, www. newschool.ie, www.rte. ie/lyricfm and w w w. nch.ie, and you can email your entry form, along with all addi-

tional information and materials, to musicforschools@waltonsmusic.ie Entries must arrive by 5 pm on Friday, February 1, 2013. Late entries will not be accepted.

EVENT: CHANCE TO MEET POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS

Jobs Expo returns to Croke Park I HIROMI MOONEY

Road dogs: A charity cruise across the USA RADIO PRESENTER Baz Ashwamy, actor George McMahon, former boxing champion Bernard Dunne, singer Ryan Sheridan, will hit the open road on Harley Davidson motorcycles as part of the Delta Horizon Tour across the US in aid of Irish Dogs for the Disabled in September/October 2013.

Irish Dogs for the Disabled train assistance dogs to assist physically disabled children and adults. These dogs carry out a range of practical tasks in order to allow disabled people greater independence.

Every dog is trained to help with simple everyday tasks such as opening and closing doors, picking up dropped items, emptying the washing machine, sending for help or even helping a child with severe walk-

ing difficulties to walk with greater ease and balance.

Each dog is trained to cater for the needs of the specific client to enable them to live life with greater independence. This all costs money, of course, and in order to raise funds for this very worthy charity, the charity is undertaking the motorcyle trip of a lifetime from Chicago to New Orleans next year.

Irish Guide Dogs for the Disabled is now offering volunteers the chance to literally sample history on a two week, 3,000km guided motorcycle tour that will go from Chicago, Illinois, to the magical streets of New Orleans.

For further info check out www.deltahorizontour.com

JOBS Expo 2012 will return to Croke Park next Friday and Saturday, September 28 and 29, following its successful event held earlier this year.

The employment and recruitment fair promises to offer plenty of information and opportunities both at home and abroad.

The free event will offer advice and career opportunities from various companies. One such company is the British Columbia Construction Association, whose members are looking to fill positions in the Canadian province for carpenters, welders, iron workers, plumbers, pipe layers, mechanics, crane operators and sheet metal workers.

The Jobs Expo event coordinator, Vicky Kelly, said that following the success of the last expo event, which had around 9,000 attendees, they are expecting to exceed that figure this time.

“I think it’s very important [to host an expo like this] because it’s an ideal opportunity for employ-

ers to showcase the positions that they have, and also for the public so that they feel more involved in the recruitment process as well.

“They can actually come along and present themselves in person rather than being a piece of paper with a CV being emailed in to an organisation,” she said.

“It’s a great chance to actually come and speak to employers directly and to apply face-to-face for a role that you may be suitable for.”

The exhibition will be divided into five different areas, which are Irish Job Opportunities, Working Abroad, Education Village, Career Clinic and Starting Your Own Business.

The event is run by Learning Ireland, the publisher of leading websites Nightcourses.com, Gotocollege.ie, Postgrad. ie, Corporatetraining.ie and Learning.ie.

The expo will take place from 11am to 5pm both days in The Hogan Suite in Croke Park.

For more information, visit http://www.jobsexpo.ie/.

14 GAZETTE 20 September 2012

BUSINESS: CUTTING COSTS

STYLE Advice from Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen

EPA’s initiative to help firms go green THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched a one-stop shop for businesses in Dublin to help them save money while preventing waste, conserving water and reducing their energy costs.

The EPA developed the resources for businesses facing increasing energy costs and waste and water charges which are looking to reduce their overheads by adopting greener ways of doing business.

BeGreen provides access to a range of business programmes including Green-

Business and GreenHospitality.

GreenBusiness is a free business advisory service that represents an innovative approach to waste prevention and resource efficiency in Ireland. BeGreen’s expert environmental advisors will visit organisations and generate a tailored environmental efficiency action plan free of charge.

GreenHospitality has been a hugely successful BeGreen programme for the hospitality industry. For more information, visit BeGreen www.begreen.ie

Interior design guru, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, pictured in Dublin launching his exclusive online collection of furniture and furnishings for Littlewoods Ireland

‘Be subversive, be posh – ditch beige’ I LAURA WEBB

FORGET about living in a beige box – instead, be playful with colours and designs throughout the house.

That’s just a little of the advice that interior designer, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, bestknown for his appearances on TV’s Changing Rooms, brought to town on a recent visit to launch his exclusive collection for online department store, Littlewoods Ireland.

The Gazette caught up with the designer at a hotel suite that had been transformed into a shrine to his new collection.

Sitting on a couch he had designed himself, Laurence looked ever the suave gentleman, and was only too delighted to talk about his new collection.

“It’s the first time ever, that I feel I have created an entire, almost couture attitude collection – something that encompasses furniture as well as bed linen, soft furniture, bedding, lighting and things – it has been tremendously liberating,” he said.

“I have been designing for years and years. I launched wallpaper 14 years ago – a really long time – but when you design an element like a roll of wallpaper or china or table-linen, or whatever, you have got to use that one small thing to tell a big story.

“But, when you are creating an entire collection, you can be so much more emphatic, so much more punky and subversive – you don’t need to be so bloody tasteful!

“The look I wanted to

sell, because it is my look, is all about indulgence, voluptuousness and every-day luxury and theatricality, opera – but it also has to be funny.

“There has to be something about it that is witty and grown-up, and so much interior design isn’t.

So much is so appallingly straight, and unbelievably serious! Sod that – we are fabulously diverse.

“I want to make people’s lives sexier, more playful, more indulgent – to me, those are the things that make you feel as if you are worth it,” said Laurence.

Asked about the use of colour on walls, Laurence believes the bolder, the better.

“If we all woke up in a beige box, we would all be very dull people!

We want to make these

places, places that we can escape to.

“It is all about being able to be ourselves and not conform to this rigid, pre-prescribed sense of what is ‘good taste’ and what is ‘bad taste’.”

According to Laurence, his collection offers luxury furnishings at affordable prices.

“People look at it and say, ‘That’s posh’. But ‘posh’ doesn’t mean anything, posh doesn’t mean class, it doesn’t mean money, it doesn’t mean status – it is just posh – and that is what I want it to be.

“Posh for as little money is absolutely perfect, because it is totally subversive,” he said.

The Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen collection is available now on www. littlewoodsireland.ie.

20 September 2012 GAZETTE 15

LIBRARY

ENTERPRISE: CALL FOR ENTRIES FOR ANNUAL ENTREPRENEURIAL CONTEST

Camera club set to exhibit

Start-up business will win €25,000 THE Learning and Innovation Centre (LINC) last week launched its annual entrepreneurial competition, which offers the winner an impressive prize worth €25,000 for a start-up business.

This is the third year of the LINC’s Jump-Start competition at the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown (ITB) The competition is open to entrepreneurs who would like to base their business in an innovative and supportive environment.

The value of the award is €25,000, and includes €5,000 in cash for the winning company, plus the cost of the incubation space for 12 months, with varied mentoring support available to the company from industry experts, and a range of useful business start-up packages, including design, media,

technology equipment, print, call-answering and much more.

Last week saw the official launch of the competition, which took place at the Dylan Hotel.

One of Ireland’s bestknown entrepreneurs, and Dragon’s Den star, Bobby Kerr, was on hand to officially launch the competition.

Delighted He said: “I am delighted to be involved with the Jump-Start competition again.

“I see the competition as a great way for entrepreneurs to present to their peers and have the opportunity of winning an amazing prize that any start-up would love to receive, especially in the current climate.”

Shortlisted entrants will get a unique opportunity to present their

ideas to a very experienced panel, including Kerr; Judith Troy, AIB regional manager; Oisin Geoghegan, chief executive of Fingal County Enterprise Board, and George Kiely, regional director of Enterprise Ireland.

The judging panel will be chaired by Assumpta Harvey, manager of the LINC at ITB. Application forms can be downloaded from www.thelinc.ie/jumpstart, with the closing date for applications set for 4pm on Friday, October 19, with the shortlist to be announced on November 2.

All applicants must submit a fully completed application form.

The winner of the award will be announced on the evening of the final judging, on November 15.

I NATALIE BURKE

Gimme Moore: Street’s traders help to celebrate orchestra’s concerts SWAPPING her fruit and veg for cymbals, Moore Street trader Marie Cullen showed Sinead Farrell what a dab hand she is when it comes to making music.

The pair were having some fun on the famous street, as mem-

bers from the RTE National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) were visiting the street to help publicise the upcoming NSO 2012-2013 season, which is now under way at the National Concert Hall.

BALDOYLE Library will play host to the “Expressive Black and White” exhibition later this month – a photography event featuring the best work of Sutton Camera Club.

The photography exhibition will be held from Monday, September 24 until Friday, September 28, with the official launch taking place on Tuesday, September 25 at 6.30pm.

With members of the photography club hailing from Baldoyle, Swords, Howth, Clongriffin, Portmarnock and Donaghmede, the free exhibition features work from a number of different communities.

Sutton Camera Club currently meet every second Tuesday night in the Baldoyle Forum Centre.

For further information, see www.suttoncameraclub.com.

16 GAZETTE 20 September 2012

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT Boys and ghouls may like this film I SHANE DILLON

IT’S been a while since I was last at the cinema, so I don’t have any particular expectations of what most films for kids should be like, today.

I mean – and this is probably showing my age here – the last time I went to see a kid’s film, I think a young Jodie Foster was running around in it, looking for some place called Witch Mountain

(circa 1873)?

There was definitely an intermission in the middle of the film when the red curtains closed, I remember that much.

3D? It was all barely 2D, back then, mate!

All of this makes me sound less like a grownup, and more like a dinosaur. Could an old fogey like me truly get to grips with something that’s, y’know, for kids?

Well, ParaNorman

(deservedly a Cert PG; 92 mins; starring, oh, John Goodman is just about the biggest name there) is a stop-motion animated film about Norman; an average kid in his sleepy home town.

Average, that is, except for the fact that he sees dead people everywhere, and wearily blathers away with amiable ghosts that only he can see, including Uncle Prenderghast (Goodman).

Personally, I’d be using my invisible buddies to ace every test in school, but, alas, Norman’s a nicer kid than me – err, so to speak – as he doesn’t treat his deadly pals with any disrespect.

Norman’s pretty normal, otherwise, given his slightly annoying family; the fact that he’s getting bullied a bit at school, and the fact that his town keeps celebrating a witch that it, um, dealt with, 300 years earlier.

Now, you don’t suppose that a 300-year-dead witch and a boy who chats away to spirits from

Spot the odd one out ... Yes, that’s right – it’s Norman, who alone can see dead people everywhere. A handy gift, it turns out, given a town curse that’s about to unfold ...

the afterlife could possibly cross paths, thus fulfilling an ancient curse set upon the town, do you?

(Or, in my best ghost-ese: dooooo youuuuu?)

It’s not long before dead ol’ witchipoo is back – back, and deader than ever – ready to make up for 300 years of other people partying and celebrating her unfortunate

end, with a load of creepy minions and zombies.

(From this point onwards, the film ramps up its intensity a bit, as it gallops headlessly over heels towards that PG rating, making it worth pointing out that you better be sure your little boys and ghouls can handle the film’s grave humour.)

It’s down to Norman, his misfit friends, some clueless grown-ups and, of course, his spectral sidekicks – some of whom are dead willing to help – to save the day.

Not that it’s going to be that easy, of course ...

Actually, the film was fairly entertaining enough, with nothing too awful, so long as you’re clear that your little dar-

lings are going to see a PG film with ghosts, zombies and stuff.

(I had to grow up with endless cartoons starring sickly goodie-goodie, Casper The Friendly Ghost, so today’s kids have better luck than me with their entertainment choices.)

While stop-motion is something of a dying art, it’s beautifully done, here, crafting a lovely film to look at that, sure, is very much like a Tim Burton story in some parts, yet also has some heart and brains (or, in my zombieese, braiiiinnnnnssss).

So, for something a little spooky, and ahead of Halloween’s overkill, I’d say it’s worth an “okay” three stars out of five ...

20 September 2012 GAZETTE 17

GazetteTTRAVEL A delightful tribute to Beckett in Enniskillen I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN

TRAVELLING to Fermanagh, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from the very first Happy Days International Beckett Festival, celebrating the work and legacy of Irish writer and playwright, Samuel Beckett, but I was excited at the prospect of seeing some of my favourite old Beckett plays performed in stimulating new ways – and I was certainly not disappointed.

Enniskillen was the location of the inaugural festival. Upon arriving at the gorgeous Manor House Hotel in Killadeas, I was struck by the period residence’s faultless restoration to its original glory on grounds overlooking Lough Erne, dating back to the 17th century.

Dinner was delicious, and the portions generous, with wild salmon and fresh pasta served by a staff of very attentive waiters. During dinner, our party were introduced to the Happy Days festival, where its founder, Sean Doran, told us how it all began.

The seed for the idea was planted in his head to hold the festival in Enniskillen before he was even aware of the connection between the influential writer and the town.

He said: “I didn’t know he went to Portora [Royal School] here, but I wanted the festival to be here.

When I found out, it was happy days!”

Unlike other purely literary festivals, Sean wanted Happy Days to be more eclectic, and full of the spirit of Beckett’s influence, rather than just a few days of seeing his plays performed.

With that in mind, he decided to mix in elements which resonated with Beckett’s legacy.

Sean introduced sporting events, music and comedy into the programme; debates and talks by contemporary Irish and international writers, as well as Beckett pieces performed by small theatre companies and renowned actors.

Homage The great melting pot of acts and performers at the five-day festival was a collective homage to Beckett’s work and influence in all artistic forms.

The whole town of Enniskillen got into the spirit of the festival, with barber shops offering Beckett haircuts and delicatessens selling ham and clove sandwiches.

However, the undisputed highlight of the whole festival was Robert Wilson’s premiere of, Krapp’s Last Tape.

On entering the lovely Ardhowen Theatre, I knew I was in for something mighty, judging by the calibre of punter around me.

From the moment the curtain came up, American avant-garde theatremaker Robert Wilson,

TravelBriefs The parties will be even bigger than usual this year at the world-famous resort

Writer Samuel Beckett would have approved of the Muckball Cup, commissioned in his honour

Irish poet Paul Muldoon, heavily influenced by Beckett, also appeared at

Enniskillen gets into the spirit of the

the festival

festival, with many home-made signs

Part of the striking front of the truly beautiful Manor House Hotel in Killadeas

white-faced and utterly unique, mesmerised the audience.

His portrayal introduced effective and symbolic elements, bringing the play to life with a strange bolt of electricity.

The first thing Wilson did was to sit, as the sound effect of teeming rain flooded the theatre.

He sat for so long, he pushed the boundaries of audience expectation to the outer limits.

T hen, he ate two bananas in a very stylised and ritualistic way, whilst looking at the audience with a world of conflicting

Edited by Natalie Burke

emotions on his face.

The whole performance was a joy to witness, and I felt blessed to have been there.

Everything Wilson does is his own, and heavy with meaning and symbolism; he is a born artist of the highest rate, and I know I’ll never see anything like him again.

Not only was he a consummate performer on stage, but he used his primitive nature to great effect too.

Now and then, as he listened to the tapes, a great primal noise would emanate from his distended

clown-like mouth as he reacted in horror.

Yet, the sound echoed that of the stop button on the tape recorder. This marriage of the sublime and the ridiculous was astonishingly original.

People left the show wearing blank, dazed expressions, and it was patently clear that Wilson had done the real job of a theatre maker – he had put us all through something amazing.

For further information on the Manor House Hotel, Killadeas, Enniskillen, see www.manorhousecountryhotel.com.

Celebrating 20 years of Disneyland Paris THIS year, for its 20th anniversary, there is more magic in the air than ever at Disneyland Paris, which has been transformed through an amazing explosion of lights and colours.

Abbey Travel is offering family stopover packages for two adults and two children, starting from €479 per family, based on selected dates from November to March.

The package includes accommodation and breakfast in a Disney Hotel, tickets for both Disney Parks for each day, free Fastpass to reduce queuing times at the most popular attractions, and extra Magic Hours – access to Disneyland Park up to two hours before its regular opening time.

For full details of the offer, and related terms and conditions, or to make a booking, telephone Abbey Travel at 01 804 7160, or see www. abbeytravel.ie.

18 GAZETTE 20 September 2012

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported

by AIB

Interview: Robert Prestage, owner, the Bathroom Boutique, Churchtown MY FINANCEE’S DEBTS ...

Q – MY FIANCEE and I are getting married in six months, but she is paying credit card debt and bank loans through MABS [the Money Advice and Budgeting Service].

So, when we get married, can they take my wages into account, and make me liable for her debts, too? Gerry – Clondalkin A - SHE must be a wonderful girl to marry her with all this debt. I suppose the phrase: “For richer, or poorer” comes to mind!

By going to MABS, it means that perhaps some of her debts require professional management and strategy.

This time of your life is certainly a time when all the cards should very definitely be on the table – no secrets, especially financial ones.

You would want to ensure there are no other skeletons in her cupboard.

The first thing I would do is for both of you to set out a monthly income and expenditure budget – you HAVE to know how much is coming in and, importantly, how much is going out.

You will also need to tell each other EXACTLY what liabilities and assets you have.

You may decide to escalate the debt repayment prior to marriage, so it doesn’t act like a millstone around your necks.

As regards your liability for her debts after marriage, the answer is no – her debts remain her debts, even if she cannot afford to repay them.

However, if her credit history is affected (judgments stay on your credit history for life), then that will affect your application for joint loans, such as a mortgage.

Even if she has a sound job with a healthy income, she will be precluded from being approved because of her past record.

Guard your good name, but talk openly NOW about it.

Anti-money laundering rules stipulate: “Know your customer”, but in your case, it is more like: “Know your wife”!

But may I wish you many happy years together.

All the best.

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

WE HAVE 135,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

Bathroom designs to make a splash ROBERT Prestage has more than 25 years’ experience in the plumbing and construction industry, running his own company in South Africa’s Cape Town before moving to Dublin 12 years ago.

Initially coming for a holiday, professional curiosity got the better of him and, before the holiday was finished, he found himself working for a couple in Shankill, Co Dublin and, through referrals, he has never looked back.

Establishing Prestage Plumbers and Renovators soon afterwards, the business has gone from strength to strength; culminating in his latest business venture, the Bathroom Boutique.

The showroom, based in Churchtown, specialises in retail and offers full installation service and maintenance service by its sister company, Prestage Plumbers and Renovators.

The showroom is influenced by styles and concepts from Europe’s leading brands, offering a wide range of products from contemporary to traditional and everything in between.

Customers can find a wide range of baths, wet-room showers, shower enclosures, washbasins, toilets, furniture and a large selection of tiles.

Robert says that Bathroom Boutique’s ethos is based on

delivering superior quality and outstanding service, and products are sourced through Irish companies – mindful of his belief in keeping business local.

He adds that Tony and Tracey, the showroom staff, have more

than 30 years’ experience between them in the bathroom retail industry, with experience working with all the world’s leading brands and designer ranges.

They look forward to meeting and advising customers through

the various stages of designing, choosing and installation of their dream bathroom.

For testimonials of finished projects, see www.thebathroomboutique.ie, and www.prestageplumbers.ie.

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

A: A farmer

thing that you once thought you could not pull off?

A: No

TV or movie pleasure?

A: Farming and fishing pro-

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Donedeal.ie

Q: What was your first job?

A: Worked in a hardware store

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

A: All day

Q&A

in Cape Town

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: 250 rands per month – about €25

Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed?

A: Yes – a part-time mechanic

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Robert Prestage, owner, Bathroom Boutique, Churchtown, with some of the outlet’s wares

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

A: Mail Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Rugby and horseracing

grammes

Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – Michael D or Jedward?

A: Jedward Q: What music/pictures/ movies do you have on your iPod/iPad? A: Netflix app

Q: What sport can you play?

A: Golf and archery

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Family

ever since

Q: What habits would you like to lose?

A: Smoking

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Steak, chips and mushroom

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Customer satisfaction

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

A: moving house

Q: Have you ever achieved any-

Q: What is your guilty music/

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: 1981; I’ve been a plumber

sauce, and apple pie

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

A: Neither

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Four Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Barbados Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: It would have to be sitting in the sun in a quiet place drinking a glass of rose

Q: What would be your dream job?

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

A: Maybe I will become a farmer then

20 September 2012 GAZETTE 19

ROYAL TREATMENT P21

TOP WEDDING TIPS P24

&

HONEYMOONS P26

Bride groom W

Dublin’s complete guide to yo u r w e d d i n g

ELCOME to the Gazette’s Bride and Groom supplement, your complete guide to creating the perfect wedding day.

Inside this month’s fantastic supplement, we focus on one of the most important factors in your big day — venue, venue, venue!

With a focus on elegance and quality, we feature some of the best wedding venues in the province and beyond, while we also take the time with the help of a wedding planner to go through a checklist of all the vital things to think about when making the all-important decision about where your wedding will happen.

SEPTEMBER 2012 We also highlight another crucial venue — where you are going to have your honeymoon, and look at what is on offer in Malta at the fabulous Fortina resort.

As well as all of these great features, we are giving readers the chance to pick up a pair of tickets for the upcoming Wedding Journal Show which takes place on September 29 and 30 at the Citywest Complex. So make sure and enter, and if you don’t win, head along regardless — there’s a fabulous €25,000 wedding to be won at the event for everyone who attends.

So read on for some fantastic advice and tips on how to throw the ultimate wedding bash.

20 GAZETTE 20 September 2012

BRIDE& GROOM Dublin’s complete

g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

l BE AUT Y IN BALLSBRIDGE l

Elegant charm at the Clyde Court THE bride-to-be isn’t the only one to change their name when it comes to wedding days.

The Clyde Court Hotel in Ballsbridge, one of the most popular and romantic weddings venues in Dublin – and which features several elegant suites to choose from, with a selection of bespoke menus – recently changed its name from the Berkeley Court Hotel.

Its unique marriage of luxury and legend lends itself to big days.

The Grosvenor Suite is a regal ballroom with high ceilings, ornate mirrors, chandeliers and its own private bar, and is the perfect choice for larger weddings.

For more intimate celebrations, the Herbert Suite, or Clyde Room, both offer stylish surroundings and bespoke packages to suit every taste and budget.

Clyde Court Hotel’s wedding packages start at just €55 per person, and they host civil ceremonies and wedding

The beautiful Grovesnor Suite ballroom

blessings, too.

For further information, contact personal wedding coordinator Leanne Regan at 01 238 2700, email weddings@ clydecourthotel.com, or find them online at www.clydecourthotel.com.

Sister hotels with first-class choice: Navan’s Newgrange and Ardboyne excel with weddings SISTER properties in Navan, the Newgrange and Ardboyne Hotels are offering prospective brides and grooms a very different but equally royal wedding experience in the heart of Meath.

Both hotels have equally high standards and reputation, with the lively Newgrange Hotel inspired by the rich, ancient history of the area, while the Ardboyne Hotel providing a relaxed and luxurious setting for weddings.

Both hotels’ long years of experience in

organising and staging weddings of all sizes means they have the ability to assist every happy couple interested in holding their special day at the venues, and using their array of suites to provide an appropriate and tailorable experience for all budgets and sizes.

For further information, contact the Newgrange Hotel at 046 907 4100 or see its website at www. newgrangehotel.ie; contact the Ardboyne Hotel at 046 902 3119, or see its website at www.ardboynehotel.com.

20 September 2012 GAZETTE 21

l HI STORI C SI GH T S FR O M A CO NT E M PO R ARY SE T T ING l

Get royal treatment at Trim Castle Hotel EVERY woman dreams of a fairytale wedding day, in a luxurious and stylish venue.

There is an element of magic to all weddings, but having an historic castle on your doorstep is a great addition to the wonder of the day.

Trim Castle Hotel, which recently won the 2012 Best Wedding Venue in Leinster Weddings Online award, are set to open the doors to couples from around the province and beyond at their Wedding Fair, which will take place on Sunday, October 7.

The fair will showcase the hotel as a wedding venue and all it has to offer to prospective brides and grooms.

The hotel offers seasonal and mid-week

wedding packages, which include complimentary consultancy and planning with their wedding coordinators, a red carpet and champagne reception for the bridal party on arrival, and a complimentary stay for the bride and groom in one of their deluxe rooms, among other offerings.

Trim Castle Hotel is offering an all-inclusive wedding guest package on dates in 2013 and 2014 for only €55 per person.

The hotel itself overlooks Trim Castle and the adjoining rolling lawns of St Patrick’s Church, and also boasts a rooftop terrace from which guests can admire the impressive castle.

At Trim Castle Hotel, the team aspire to make your wedding day the

Trim Castle Hotel’s rooftop terrace affords beautiful views of Trim Castle and lawns

most memorable and enjoyable day of your life. To achieve this, their wedding team assures personal and professional attention in the planning and preparation of each couple’s special celebration.

A spokesperson for the hotel said: “Modern

couples simply do not go for just any venue.

Trim Castle Hotel is the perfect choice for their reception, as it possesses the old-world charisma of the historical AngloNorman castle, and the contemporary standards of magnificent food and stunning decor.

“Looking onto the castle, lit in romantic colour against the evening sky, is a breathtaking scene. This place has it all, and, if you host your wedding there, know that your guests will be talking about it for a long time to come,” said the spokesperson.

For further informa-

Wedding parties are assured of comfort and attention to detail at wonderfully-presented receptions

tion, you are very welcome to attend the Wedding Fair on October 7.

Alternatively, contact the hotel’s wedding co-

ordinators at 046 948 3000, email info@trimcastlehotel.com, or see www.trimcastlehotel. com.

22 GAZETTE 20 September 2012

BRIDE& GROOM Dublin’s complete

g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

l YO U R C H A N C E F O R F R E E E N T RY TO A N U N M I S S A B L E C I T Y W E ST E V E N T l

Win tickets to 2012 Wedding Journal Show DUBLIN Gazette Bride and Groom is delighted to offer our readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to the 2012 Wedding Journal Show, which takes place next weekend, September 29 and 30 at the Citywest Complex.

The Wedding Journal Show 2012 will feature more than 350 exhibitors and provide brides and grooms alike with a one-stop-wedding shop, together with all the inspira-

tion they need to plan their big day.

From venues and flowers to dresses and cars, the show has it all, and all under one roof.

Dream gown Celebrating all that’s Irish, there will be an Irish Bridal Designers Area to help you find that dream gown, as well as Wedding Journal’s international catwalk show, with

fully choreographed dance routines, which takes place three times daily.

The exclusive event provides a rare opportunity to see a selection of designer wedding gowns, and many superb styles for bridesmaids, mothers of the bride, and groomswear, some of which have never been seen in Ireland before.

Another huge attraction will be the opportunity for all

attendees to be entered into a prize draw to win a fabulous wedding package, worth €25,000.

The package will include a wedding reception at the Ballymagarvey Village; a dream honeymoon to St Nicolas Bay, Crete (a member of the Great Hotels of the World group); a wedding dress from Patrick Casey; room dressing from Frog Prince; wedding photographs by Laura

Faherty Photography; and wedding rings from McDowell’s Jewellers.

Competition question To win a pair of tickets, answer this simple question: Which Ireland AM star will be the host of the 98FM Style Stage at The Wedding Journal Show?

Send your answers (including your full name, address, and a contact number) by

email, with the subject line: Bride & Groom, to competition@gazettegroup.com by Tuesday, September 27.

The Wedding Journal Show 2012 will run from 12 noon to 6pm on both days, with the international catwalk show times at 1pm, 3pm and 5pm.

Tickets at the door cost €13, or are priced €10 when pre-booked online, with VIP tickets available for €20 from ww.ticketmaster.ie.

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20 September 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23

24 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 20 September 2012

BRIDE& GROOM Dublin’s complete

g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

l LOTS TO C O NSIDE R FOR YOUR AL L-IMPORTANT PART Y l

Great advice to Top tips from CAROLINE MILLER, wedding coordinator at the Baskin Suite in Bewley’s Hotel, Dublin Airport FIRSTLY, you have to consider the date.

Before you make any selection on venue, it is very important to know the time of year that you want to get married.

The time of year can dictate cost, so do not restrict yourself to one date, but have a few in mind.

You also have to consider the actual venue, as these come in all shapes and sizes. There are castles, contemporary hotels, rural wedding

venues, marquee venues – the list goes on ...

I look after a contemporary, elegant wedding venue that is adaptable for every season.

Topics to consider When it comes to venues, you always have to ask about topics such as what are the minimum numbers, maximum and minimum capacity, accessibility, does it have civil ceremony or blessing facilities, guest accommodation, late bar,

bridal suite, car parking, where can you get photographs taken (if not at the venue, where is close by?)

Next, the type of venue that you pick will more than likely dictate the decor.

If you want to add special touches, or if the motto “less is more” is for you, your best bet is to go with a venue with neutral decor – the Baskin Suite uses ivory and gold tones.

This allows you to

match your colour theme or keep as is. Fairy light backdrops are also very popular.

For costing, meet with the wedding coordinator, get the full cost, and see if there is room to negotiate.

Package The Baskin Suite has recently launched an allinclusive package that includes everything that you will need on your day – flowers, car, entertainment, cake and all

20 September 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25

help pick the perfect venue other venue items.

The great thing about the all-inclusive package is that it saves on time and cost.

Also ask if there are any hidden costs!

Your wedding coordinator is very important, as he or she plays a huge role in your wedding experience, as the more experienced, professional and approachable the wedding coordinator is, the better you will feel throughout the whole experience.

When it comes to food, make sure to select something that appeals to the majority of your guests.

Also check that the venue can cater for vegetarians, children and all dietary requirements.

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

‘The Baskin Suite has recently launched an all-inclusive package that includes everything that you will need on your day’

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

Don’t forget that, for beverages, if you decide to have wine during your meal – try and taste it, first!

Have a think about your choice of toast drink; you can let each guest choose their own

drink, or do a set drink, such as champagne or sparkling wine.

For entertainment, when you are selecting a band or DJ, I always recommend going and viewing them.

Make contact with them, and get a list of their upcoming gigs, before the big day.

Don’t forget to check for restrictions at the venue, such as: Is there a late bar? Are children allowed.

Lastly, consider your deposit and contract, noting that most deposits are non-refundable.

For anything that you have agreed – get it in writing!

Other than that, enjoy every minute of your wedding planning!

Caroline Miller: “When it comes to deposits and contracts, for anything that you have agreed – get it in writing!”

26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 20 September 2012

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

BRIDE& GROOM Dublin’s complete

g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

With a wealth of options to consider, Malta has a great range of venues and locations to add a dash of classic style and beauty to your big day. The Fortina Spa Resort, located in the heart of Sliema on the island’s northeast coast, is perfectly located to help make the most of your venue.

l WH Y NOT M AR RY IN A JE WEL OF THE MED ITERR ANE AN? l

Marvellous Malta will make your day EVERY wedding day should be glorious but, sadly, the Irish weather isn’t always what you’d hope it will be. Long-haul destinations usually offer guaranteed sunshine, but you have to factor in the jet lag and expense.

However, with Malta just a three-hour flight away from Dublin, you can find a sun-soaked spot rich in history, beauty and culture, that is often called “an openair museum”.

The breadth of choice is astonishing, but what may intrigue you more is the exceptional value for money that getting married in Malta can offer.

The island is generally far more reasonable than many other Mediterranean islands.

The combination of Malta’s climate, and its

selection of inspiring wedding venues, could offer the idyllic location for the best day of your life.

One such venue is the Fortina Spa Resort, located in the heart of Sliema on the north-east coast of Malta.

The resort overlooks Valletta, the island’s capital, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Luxury Whether you want to relax in the spa facilities at the hotel for a few days before the event, or have the ceremony first and holiday later, the Fortina provides the ideal base for a luxurious wedding and honeymoon.

Imagine exchanging vows on a gloriously sunny day, cooled by the scented breeze drift-

ing off the Mediterranean, then whisking your guests off in a yacht to enjoy a reception in the grounds of a castle, followed by dancing under the stars ...

Alternatively, why not think about getting married in a country chapel, art gallery or on the beach?

To make sure everything goes like clockwork, it helps to have local experts to organise and advise you on your wedding.

The staff at the Fortina Spa Resort are experienced wedding organisers, and can source photographers, make-up artists, hairdressers, florists and even send your invitations for you – in short, everything you need to ensure the day goes smoothly.

They can also accommodate you for a beautiful ceremony, to your exact specifications, in the grounds of the resort.

The resort is also acclaimed for its internationally-inspired cuisine, so, if you’re tying the knot on the pool deck against breathtaking views of Valletta harbour, you can take advantage of an extensive repertoire that includes French, Thai, Indian or Italian fare, or local flavours.

You can also take the expertise of the Fortina’s award-winning chefs with you, should you decide to hold your reception elsewhere on the island.

For further information, call 0800 917 3001, or email info@hotelfortina.com.

20 September 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27

l BRI DG E H OU S E HOT E L , T U L L A M O R E l

A wedding expo for the big day of your dreams THE Bridge House Hotel in Tullamore is getting ready to host its Wedding Expo on Sunday, September 30, which will see the four-star venue showing all that it can offer in creating a truly special day for its customers, and welcome brides- and grooms-tobe.

On the day, the hotel will be set up to demonstrate all the Bridge House can do for wedding parties.

T here will be the opportunity to meet the hotel’s wedding team, and a host of wedding suppliers, including videographers, stationery suppliers, bakers, pho-

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A lovely feature at The Bridge House Hotel is its “secret garden” – an oasis of peace for the happy couple

tographers, bands and musicians, florists, hairdressers, specialist jewellers, expert health and lifestyle consultants and, of course, bridal wear and menswear – all on hand to give all the wedding tips you could need.

The Wedding Expo at the Bridge House Hotel

will also include a bridal gown display, auction and a range of incentives for anyone who books their wedding on the day.

Now, the hotel’s dedicated wedding website – http://tullamore-weddings.bridgehouse.com – lets potential brides and

grooms preview exactly what the Bridge House Hotel has to offer, as well as view special offers and learn more about the hotel’s wedding team.

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

For further information, contact the Bridge House Hotel at 057 932 5600; or see the hotel’s website, www.bridgehouse.com, or its dedicated wedding website.

Head to the Headfort Arms: You won’t want to miss its special fair THE Headfort Arms Hotel in Kells is rolling out the red carpet to couples in October when they host their Autumn Wedding Show on Sunday, October 7.

Hotel owners, the Duff family, are celebrating 40 years in business this year, and have looked after generations of weddings with a personal family touch.

Every need in organising your

nuptials will be covered on the day, with suppliers from every domain available to discuss prospective clients’ every requirement for their perfect wedding, from entertainers to hat designers, jewellers to honeymoon experts.

For further information, call 046 924 0063, or see www.headfortarms.ie online.

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28 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 20 September 2012

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30

CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 20 September 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

O’Driscoll continues to grow cult following BLAINE O’Driscoll, pictured centre, showcased his relentless style once again on his way to victory at Battlezone six last week at the Regency Hotel, coming forward from the bell and despite getting in some trouble, the Lucan MMA man claimed a first round submission victory.

Now with a record of 4-2, last year’s Cage Contender semi-pro fighter of the year didn’t waste anytime in his bout last weekend, pouncing on his opponent from the first bell and gaining the full mount.

Gavin Kelly, his opponent, did well to recover from the position and managed to sweep the young Lucan man ending up in top position, in O’Driscoll’s full guard.

Kelly’s attempts to pass the guard of the Tony Carrick product were shut down before O’Driscoll was lifted and slammed to the ground in an effort of Kelly’s to transition.

Perhaps wasting too much energy, O’Driscoll caught Kelly in an armbar – a bridge too far for Kelly who tapped out, thus signalling the end of the fight.

The victory last weekend was O’Driscoll’s second under the Battlezone banner and the Lucan MMA man probably extended his cult following.

In victory, he has won the respect of many because of his aggressive style and his ability to fight wherever his opponent brings the contest.

The bantamweight has won himself a number of honours in his short career, including becoming the inaugural Clan Wars 135lb champion earlier this year in April.

Only training in mixed martial arts for two years now, O’Driscoll is one of the many young talents that are part of the Lucan MMA team.

With head coach Anthony Carrick’s background in traditional jiu jitsu and striking along with Jorge Santos’s cultured Brazilian jiu jitsu techniques, the relatively new club have come along way in a short time and will look for further victories throughout the year.

SOCCER: DOUBLE DDSL DELIGHT FOR GREENOGUE CLUB

The Peamount U-16 side that claimed a strong 3-1 win over Shelbourne last week as they begin their DDSL season in top form

Peas shell out two wins I sport@gazettegroup.com

TWO Peamount sides were victorious over Shelbourne last week when they met the famous Dublin club in DDSL clashes.

The U-15s Major side have found their feet in the league after two disappointing results from their opening encounters, they saw off Verona last Wednesday in a convincing 5-3 victory that gave them some momentum going into the weekend tie with high flying Shelbourne, who were unbeaten going into the clash.

The Peas set about frustrating Shels from the off, and they found their rhythm early on at the sun-drenched AUL pitch. However, it was the Greenogue club’s opposition that went in at the break with the 1-0 lead.

Manny Lawal capitalised on some poor defending to put the sides level, but Shelbourne took the lead again when they rifled home a beautiful dead ball effort.

United never gave up though, and Sean Carr re-established parity before Lawal popped up

Clondalkin Lion cubs: Youngsters light up RDS half-time show CLONDALKIN RFC’s young U-12 charges

pose with Leinster’s Richardt Strauss, left, and Sean O’Brien, right, ahead of the recent Rabo Pro12 between the province and the Newport Gwent Dragons at the RDS. Clon played Newbridge as part of the half-time show at the game in front of a packed house for what was the first home game of the season for the Leinster Lions, one which ended in a 45-25 victory for the blues.

with the winner.

It was a big ask for the reshuff led U-16 Peamount side when they met Shelbourne last Wednesday.

They had seven new players to blend in to the squad and the Shels opposition were an intimidating force having won the 2011 AllIreland title.

The new faces seemed eager to stake a place in the starting 11, as they came out with the bit between their teeth, putting Shelbourne on the back foot.

Four chances came in the first 15 minutes

before they established a lead, with Ethan O’Donoghue getting on the end of a Conor Murphy cross to make it 1-0.

Ta k i n g t h e i r l e a d into the second half, Peamount defended well as Shelbourne started the second half the stronger of the two sides, putting plenty of pressure on their back lines, with Andy Doolan and Scott Osbourne putting in some excellently timed challenges.

However, the equaliser eventually came in 55th minute, but United showed the spirit that

they are well known for and responded immediately.

Conor Owens came close first, just putting the ball wide before O’Donoghue looked a dead cert to put his side ahead before he narrowly missed the target.

Shelbourne couldn’t live with the pace of Peamount while they m ove d b a c k a h e a d when Stefan Lawlor got on the end of a Jason McClelland free-kick.

McClelland added a third in the 75th minute to round off a classy performance with an excellent dead-ball effort.

20 September 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31

FOOTBALL: BARROGS UNDONE IN CLONDALKIN

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ROUND TOWER THE intermediate hurlers face St Syl-

This week’s lotto numbers were 1, 5,

the championship final - all support

17 and 25. The bonus ball was 7. There

welcome.

was no winner of this week’s jackpot of

The senior footballers defeated

Tower’s pin down home comforts AFL DIVISION TWO Round Tower Naomh Barrog

1-16 0-14

I sport@gazettegroup.com

ROUND Tower’s senior footballers pinned down a home play-off date in their promotion bid as they got the better of Naomh Barrog last Saturday at the Community Centre.

Manager Caimin Keane has done the hard work now and has checked his focus on the championship tie with St Anne’s in three week’s time where he will look to keep their momentum going.

“The main thing was getting the home playoff draw; it was something that we wanted from the start of the season,” said Keane.

“We set second place as our target because we were fairly certain that Kilmacud would be top of the pile at the end of the campaign.

“We’ve achieved the

home draw, and that’s huge, we’ve only lost one game at home all season and we’re very confident that we can do a job against any team once we get the big crowd and even bigger atmosphere that we’ve enjoyed over the whole campaign.

“Don’t get me wrong, they’re all fantastic teams that are trying to get into that playoff place, but the home advantage is absolutely huge for these ties.

“For now though, we won’t even be thinking about that fixture. It’s all about the St Anne’s [championship] game.

We’ve got to take this one game at a time, there’s absolutely no point looking past any game.

“We haven’t won anything yet and we still have the championship to focus on,” said Keane.

One thing that Keane focused on at the start of the year, in an effort to bolster their chances in the league, was bringing

through U-21s that have gone on to staple down a place for themselves.

Not only have the men brought an aspect of pace to the training sessions, but the Tower’s manager believes they have brought genuine competition to the side and are in the running for jerseys one to 15 for every game.

“We decided very early on that we wanted to go with a younger set up, and they’ve brought a new lease of life to the team.

“They’ve improved the training sessions and they’ve brought a competitive edge to the team.

They’re in contention for the starting jerseys and if they continue to perform they way they have been, the future is very bright at the club.

“Tom Lyons, Eoin Young, Eoghan Moore, Conor L’Estrange, Paddy Stynes and Manus Smith have all come in and they’ve been exemplary in the way they’ve come into the fold,” said Keane.

Tom Lyons scored three frees from three attempts last Saturday to help the side to the big win, while Cathal Carty was the team’s leading scorer with 1-6.

€8,900.

Naomh Barrog to secure a home play-

Congratulations to Rachael and

off draw in the league, while the junior

Laura, Anthony O’Mahoney and Rob

A team were beaten by Raheny in the

Hanlon who were the three €100 win-

championship semi-final by a point

ners, match three and the bonus ball.

after extra time.

Next week’s jackpot is €9,000.

Well done to the Gaelic for Father’s

The clubrooms are available for rental

team who contested a four-team

for parties, anniversaries, etc. Please

blitz on Monastery Road on Saturday

contact Jimmy behind the bar or on 01

evening.

4592960.

The club is holding a family fun day

The lotto committee are looking for

and barbecue on Saturday, September

your assistance to sell Tower’s lotto

22 in Monastery Road 2-6pm. There is

tickets on a Friday evening or Saturday

no admission charge on the day. We are

morning for one hour once a month.

asking members and friends to help in

If you are able to help, please contact

planning this event and also to offer

Matt McCormack on 087 6836737 or

their time on the day to make this a

email info@roundtower.ie.

successful event for the club.

Round Tower continued their excellent recent form to beat Naomh Barrog last weekend in the Community Centre

contribution.

vester’s at 5.45pm in Parnell Park in

The club shop is open in the club

We are asking all team mentors to

every Monday night from 7.30-8.30pm.

spread the word to your players and

You can call Betty Ward or Catherine

parents whether they can work on the

Moran direct if you have any particular

day and/or support in any other way.

inquiries on 087 6752238 or 086 8303207

Most importantly, we will need dona-

respectively.

tions whether it is baking cakes or

Bingo takes place this Tuesday; a

donating a bottle, books, old toys etc.

line is €10; a full house is €20. First Call

We are asking every family to make a

8.30pm.

ST PAT’S PALMERSTOWN AN outstanding display by the sen-

and the senior throwing in at 3.30pm.

ior footballers beating St Mary’s on

Strictly one single ticket application

Saturday places them in the last 16

per fully paid member.

of the senior championship. A noble

Applications accepted only via text

performance by the junior footballers

to our ticket hotline 086 7255586. To

saw them taking on top of the table St

avoid confusion, please provide the

Johns who played 15 men against our

name of member in the text. Clos-

juniors who could only field 14.

ing date for application is 12 noon on

Congratulations to senior hurler

Monday, September 24. The draw will

Ciaran O’Toole who tied the knot on

be made on Wednesday, September

Friday.

26 and successful applicants will be

The club sends its condolences to

notified by text. Tickets must be paid

the family of Sammy Smyth who has

for on collection. Prices have been

recently passed away. Reposing at the

reduced; €50 stand and €25 hill.

Brian McElroy Funeral Home, Monastery Road, Clondalkin Village.

Lotto number and results: first draw winning numbers – 1, 7, 10 and 15; there

Applications are now being invited

was no winner; second draw winning

for inclusion in a draw to purchase

numbers – 7, 12, 15 and 23; there was

tickets for the All-Ireland hurling final

no winner. Any three numbers: Donal

replays on Sunday, September 30

O’Dempsey, Sean Carter and Graham

with the minors throwing in at 1.15pm

Kelly.

LUCAN SARSFIELDS THANK you to everyone who helped

Saturday on our all-weather pitch

make our fun day such a huge success

at our clubhouse grounds at the 12th

last Saturday.

Lock.

Special thanks to the Dublin hurlers

Football and hurling for boys born

for playing against our U-8s and to Paul

in 2006, 2007 and 2008 is from 1.30pm

Casey for presenting the medals for

to 3pm. Football for girls born in 2005,

our schools football blitz.

2006, 2007 and 2008 runs from 1.30pm

Our senior hurlers play championship

to 2.30pm and camogie for girls aged six

quarter-final against O’Tooles next Sat-

and over is from 2.30pm to 3.30pm. No

urday at 4.15pm in O’Toole Park. Thanks

need to pre-register.

to the Moriarty Group which are are

All our juvenile teams have resumed

now sponsoring our senior hurlers as

training after the summer break.

well as our juvenile camogie section.

For information on any team contact

Our nurseries now take place every

lucansarsfieldspro@gmail.com.

ALL OF YOUR CLONDALKIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 30-31

EASY PEASY: Greenogue club claims backto-back DDSL wins over Shelbourne P30

SEPTEMBER 20, 2012

GAA MATTERS: All the best local Gaelic Games coverage P31

GazetteSPORT

Round Tower overcame Whitehall Colmcilles in some style in the semi-final of the intermediate hurling championship a fortnight ago

Developing Tower’s target IHC success Clondalkin hurlers face St Sylvester’s with a return to senior status already assured for 2013 thanks to top management PETER CARROLL

clondalkinsport@gazettegroup.com

ROUND Tower’s inter hurling coach John Hoolan claims his side has “no fear” of his men playing senior championship hurling next season, but insists his side are completely focused on the intermediate final with St Sylvester’s that will take place this Saturday in Parnell Park.

Despite the Clondalkin men putting in a dominant performance against Syl’s in an AHL3 clash just two months ago, 0-21 to 1-8, John Hoolan is adamant that the performance will have no bearing on the result this Saturday.

“I wouldn’t look too much into the result we got in July,” said Hoolan. “Sylvester’s were missing a lot of players and there is a huge difference between league games and championship clashes.

“Everyone plays with far more intent, it’s a completely different game. The other result

shouldn’t be taken as a realistic barometer.”

A young side, Tower’s have shown how they don’t need to draft new players into the mix to stay competitive in the incredibly tight AFL3.

They have used much the same panel as last year with young men coming in and staking places for themselves amongst the starting 15.

Although the side may not be looking at promotion to the senior leagues this year, Hoolan is confident the men will perform in their senior championship clashes next year, with the whole panel reaping the benefits that were put in place by head coach Emmet Carroll and Dublin hurling star David Sweeney, who spent some time as a trainer at the Monastery Road club before he left for Australia.

“We are using the same panel as we did last year with the exception of some lads that have moved from the football side to play hurling.

The only difference is some of the lads have made their way into the starting line up.

“As far as the league is concerned, we’re relying on other teams slipping up before we can

think about promotion. We have two games left which we plan on winning, but it’s really in the hands of the other two sides.

“We’ve done very well with our young team this year, and I think a lot of that is down to the lads buying into the training routine that Emmet and David brought into the set-up.

“They’ve got a lot of maturity for their years, and I have no fear of them playing senior championship next year. It will only help them develop even more, and hopefully we can push them into the second division on the back of that experience.”

As for a game-plan going into the final, Hoolan believes Tower’s focusing on their game is the most important aspect of the game.

“We have a way of playing, a system, and once we stick to that we should play very well.

We know they have great hurlers and we know who those players are.

“The lads just need to stick to what they do best and if we have a good crowd behind us, we have every chance of winning it,” he finished.