Clondalkin

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The Mazda CX-5 has a visual edge to add to its already substantial charm

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TRAILBLAZERS: Praise for Scoil Mhuire as it raises its fifth Green Flag See Page 5

Ready to kick off: Having fun at a new soccer camp Round Tower: AFL2 final to come after big Skerries win Page 31 and 32

Football:

Dublin boss Jim Gavin speaks to The Gazette Page 29

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COACHES Maxi McCann and Joanna Kelly were happy to stand – or kneel – back and let Aaron, Joey, Cody, Jamie, Lee and Chulain take the limelight at Neilstown Community Centre recently, where the boys were taking part in a new soccer camp.

Suitable for boys and girls aged from three to six years, the Little Feet Academy also runs at two other venues: Quarryvale Community and Leisure Centre and Ballyfermot Leisure Centre.

Dismay at development approval for SIAC site Politicians express disappointment at mixed-use decision

by An Bord Pleanala

 PAUL HOSFORD

LOCAL politicians have said they are disappointed and dismayed at An Bord Pleanala’s decision to uphold permission for a mixed-use development on the SIAC

site at the top of Woodford Hill and Monastery Road.

The controversial development, which has been the subject of ongoing protests and objections, was finally approved last week, with permission for 346 residen-

tial units granted.

Labour TD Robert Dowds said that it was now up to SIAC to “become good neighbours”. Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald (FG) said that she was dismayed by the decision:

“I am extremely disappointed by An Bord Pleanala’s refusal of our appeal, and utterly dismayed by the decision of the bord to extend their planning permission grant from five years to 10.”

Full Story on Page 4

2 CLONDALKIN Gazette 22 November 2012

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Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 - 6010240 Dublin Gazette Newspapers publish eight weekly quality free titles, covering the greater Dublin area from Swords to Dun Laoghaire

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Members of Clondalkin Tidy Towns collect their runner-up prize in the Pride of Place Population Over 2,000 category awards ceremony, in Thomond Park, Limerick, from An Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, Cllr Jerome Scanlan (FG, third-right) and the Mayor of Limerick City, Cllr Gerry McLoughlin (Lab, right)

Well-deserved Pride for Clondalkin’s tidy efforts CLONDALK IN Tidy Towns marked the end of a great year by taking home a prize at this year’s Pride of Place competition held in Thomond Park, Limerick.

T he group were awarded r unners-up in the Population Over 2,000 category in the awards, capping a fantastic year for the newlyformed group.

The group was represented by Marie Kearney, Kathleen Gill and chairman Ronan Connolly, and were joined

by Maire Ní Dhomhnaill from South Dublin County Council in collecting the award and receiving a cheque for €500.

Connolly said the group were delighted with their success. “To

 Paul Hosford news@gazettegroup.com

say we were shocked is the understatement of the year. We really did not think we would be named as one of the winners on the night. Being nominated in itself was a huge success.”

The Pride of Place competition, hosted by Co-operation Ireland, is directed towards recognising improvements by local communities to create civic pride in their area.

The competition focus is on people coming together to shape, change and enjoy all

that is good about their area; something Connolly feels the group have achieved.

“This is a massive achievement for everyone in Clondalkin and is something we will be proud of for many years.

“We met one of the judges, who said that he was amazed by the amount of work done by the group in such a short space of time.

“If the results from our first year in the national Tidy Towns competition disappointed some, being awarded South Dublin County Community Group of the Year and then runnersup in the Pride of Place 2012 competition will prove to us all that what we are doing is working and is making such a

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‘This is a massive achievement for everyone in Clondalkin and is something we will be proud of for many years’ --------------------------

Ronan Connolly, chairman, Clondalkin Tidy Towns

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massive impact beyond Clondalkin,” he added.

Connolly said that the group had “put the community on the map” and that the hard work would continue.

“We have put our community on the map and people are talking about us.

“W hen I was collecting our Community Group of the Year award in Tallaght a couple of weeks ago, I said the following to those gathered in the auditorium: ‘If Clondalkin can achieve this after five or six months’ work, I want everyone to come and visit us in five years’ time, and see just what we are capable of doing and what we will do.’

“We set out on a campaign to rid the streets and green areas of Clondalkin village of the ghastly sight of litter in March.

“Through our work and hard effor t, we have united many different communities and cultures, and we have helped to give people something to be proud of once again,” he said.

22 November 2012 CLONDALKIN Gazette 3

music

policing: gardai reveal scale of operation over past three weeks

Aras to get a new trad night

Dozens arrested in drugs crackdown GARDAI from Ballyfermot and Clondalkin have arrested 40 people in the past three weeks for involvement in the sale and supply of heroin, crack cocaine and other controlled drugs, gardai have revealed.

As a result of the raids, 20 people have appeared in court this week charged in relation to this operation – 17 adults and three juveniles – and more than 150 charges have already been made against those arrested.

Operation Klaxon, a major Garda investigation into drug trafficking in the Ballyfermot and Clondalkin districts, commenced in March of this year and has been a covert operation which,

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More than 150 charges have already been made against those arrested

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

gardai say, has dismantled a number of drug distribution networks.

The drugs units based at Bally fermot and Clondalkin Garda stations, working closely with the Garda National Drug Unit, gathered evidence against significant targets, all of who are expected to face multiple charges.

During the course of searches carried out in the past three weeks further amounts of control-

led drugs have also been seized, said gardai.

A Garda statement said: “An Garda Siochana is committed to tackling the supply of drugs at all levels, in keeping with our commitment to the National Drug Strategy.

“The Garda National Drug Unit works together with local Garda drug units to ensure a coordinated and effective approach to protecting our communities, individuals and their families from the harm and pain caused by drug use.

“By working with other agencies, and utilising innovative approaches, we will continue to play our part in maintaining a safe community for everyone.”

Montessori fun: Enjoying Clondalkin Primary School’s great open day LUCY Kennedy was all smiles at the recent open day ay Clondalkin

Primary School. Based upstairs in the scouts’ den on Watery Lane, the school caters for children up to age 12. Using Montessori methods, the school teaches within the curriculum set out by the Department of Education.

Board member and parent Sinead Rafferty said: “The school is a bit of a hidden secret, but it offers small classes and caters to all children. It is an alternative to regular school and using Montessori methods helps teach the children in a concrete way.” For further information, contact the school at 087 673 1897.

A GROUP of Ballyfermot College of Further Education (BCFE) students are bringing a new trad night to Aras Chronain, with great music to delight all trad fans.

The group attend the traditional music school in BCFE and run a folk club in the Aras every Wednesday.

The group host three acts each night – two acts hailing from the college, and one guest act.

Admission An admission fee of €5, or €7 for two, is charged, with a price of €3 for students.

The gigs are held every Wednesday from 9.30 to 11.30pm, and upcoming acts include Sean Potts, who will join the group on November 28.

4 CLONDALKIN Gazette 22 November 2012

christmas Area expected to gain from staffing rise

Seasonal jobs due at Liffey Valley Boots outlet THERE was a boost for local jobseekers this week when Boots Ireland announced they will be creating 400 temporary full- and part-time positions in its Irish outlets during the Christmas

period.

Although it is not known how many jobs will be created in the Liffey Valley store, it is expected to be a sizeable number.

Carmel O’Brien, HR

director, Boots Ireland, said: “Customer service is critically important at Boots and this is even more important when our stores are at their busiest during the Christmas season.

“These additional 400 temporar y positions will help us to deliver on our ambition to be the leading pharmacyled health and beauty retailer, through the delivery of an excellent

product range, coupled with superior customer service.

“I would urge anyone looking for temporary work to visit our website, www.boots.jobs/ireland, to apply.”

Pirates: Visitors treasured TIMBERS were left well and truly shivered at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre recently when a pirate’s village washed ashore, just in time for Christmas.

On behalf of all Liffey Valley landlubbers, centre manager, Denis O’Connell (pictured with local pirate fan, Eva), praised the village’s arrival, which brings with it a treasure chest of activities for children aged from one to ten years, while parents can relax in a viewing area – something to parrot about, indeed.

planning: minister fitzgerald ‘disappointed’ at move

Dismay at bord decision to allow SIAC development  paul hosford

phosford@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL politicians have said they are disappointed and dismayed at An Bord Pleanala’s decision to uphold permission for a mixed-use development on the SIAC site at the top of Woodford Hill and Monastery Road.

T he controversial development, which has been the subject of ongoing protest and objection, was finally approved last week, with permission for 346 residential units granted.

An Bord Pleanala’s decision granted permission for a scaled-down version of SIAC’s original plans. Their decision

on planning applications is final, and no further appeals process is open to residents.

Deputy Robert Dowds (Lab) said that it was now up to SIAC to “become good neighbours”.

He said: “As someone who lodged an objection to the development, I am calling on SIAC to change their attitude and become good neighbours to the people near them.

“They need to work with local people to ensure that whatever they do on their site is done with the minimum disruption to the community and that there is some benefit for local people.”

Minister for Children

Frances Fitzgerald (FG) described the decision as “extremely disappointing”.

She said: “I am extremely disappointed

by An Bord Pleanala’s refusal of our appeal and utterly dismayed by the decision of the bord to extend their planning permission grant from five years to 10.”

Along with Cllr Tony Delaney (FG), she had submitted an appeal to the plan.

Minister Fitzgerald added: “Tony and I have worked with the community on this issue since day one. Our campaign led to a decrease of activity on this site, and a scaling-down of the proposal,

but there is still much concern locally regarding this development.

“Residents from right across Clondalkin objected to the planning application, signed petitions expressing their opposition to this development, and we appealed the grant decision to An Bord Pleanala.

“In their judgement, the bord says that this is an ‘appropriate form of development’, but I remain convinced that 380 residential units in 18 blocks, scaling to eight stories, in addition to retail units and commercial units, represents an overscaling of this site.

“I appreciate that the bord has set out 42 con-

ditions to be complied with, and have requested revised site layout plans, but I feel that the evidence given by the SIAC Action Group at the oral hearing has not been adequately reflected in their determination,” she said.

Minister Fitzgerald paid tribute to the hard work and expertise volunteered by residents in the run-up to and throughout the oral hearing.

“The SIAC Appeal Action Group, made up of local residents led by Mairead Carey, gathered important information from local schools, businesses and residents’ associations, and played a key role in preparing for the oral hearing,” she said.

22 November 2012 CLONDALKIN Gazette 5

school ‘Blazing a trail for others to follow’

Scoil Mhuire raises its fifth Green Flag A LOCAL school was celebrating last week when they picked up their fifth flag in the Green Schools initiative.

Local Fine Gael TD and the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald, joined the staff and pupils of Scoil Mhuire, whom she praised for “blazing a trail”.

The school, which has been participating in the Green Flag initiative for the past 10 years, won their fifth flag for biodiversity, making Scoil Mhuire not only the first school in west Dublin to be awarded the flag, but also the first school within the Presentation Order’s patronage who have received the honour.

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‘I am delighted that this flag will create a legacy in Scoil Mhuire of growing their own plants and vegetables’ --------------------------

Frances FItzgerald

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Minister Fitzgerald said: “Scoil Mhuire is certainly blazing a trail for other schools to follow in Clondalkin.

“The pupils, the Green School committee, as well as the principal, Ms Burke-Henehan, supervising teachers Ms Gelens and Ms McMahon and caretaker Paul have

done fantastic work in making the school more eco-friendly.

“It just goes to show what we can achieve when we all pull together, and the presentation of this flag is a reward for all that cooperation and hard work.”

To gain the fifth flag, pupils learnt how about the local environment and habitats, even creating a bug hotel for insects.

They also planted oak trees in the grounds and sewed garlic, herbs and vegetables in an allotment in Corkagh Park.

Their care and attention to the allotment impressed the board of management so much that the Presentation

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business

Seminar to help directors  hiromi mooney

Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald joined Scoil Mhuire staff, pupils and its Green School committee members for the awarding of the school’s fifth Green Flag

Order, through board chairperson Sr Margaret Mary, donated a patch of land for students to continue to develop their

green fingers.

Minister Fitzgerald said: “I am delighted that this flag will create a legacy in Scoil Mhuire of

growing their own plants and vegetables, and I look forward to seeing the fruits of their labours in the years ahead.”

AN INFORMATION seminar, entitled Liability For Community Directors, will take place in Bewley’s Hotel at Newlands Cross on Monday, November 26, from 2 to 4pm.

T he seminar, with barrister Brian Walker, from the Irish Law Library, is organised by the CPLN Area Partnership.

It is aimed at community company directors and company directors from both the voluntary and statutory sectors.

6 CLONDALKIN Gazette 22 November 2012

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Karen and Eabha Neburagho

Amber and Callum O’Reilly were the first to greet Santa

A large crowd of wellwishers gathered to give Santa and his elves a great welcome to the shopping centre

Claus for a cheer

T

HERE was lots of excitement at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre recently for the arrival of Santa Claus and some of his elves, who were bringing a dash of extra Christmas cheer to the thronged centre.

Santa, and his helpers, were there for the opening of the centre’s grotto, with lots of children eagerly waiting for the chance to meet

him, and to tell them about what they might like for Christmas presents from him.

With centuries of experience to draw upon, Mr Claus was only too happy to meet the local boys and girls, who he already knew were being very good before Christmas, and he assured everyone at the centre that a peaceful, joyous period lies ahead for all.

Mia Keegan and Sophie Cullen

Santa was in fine form

Santa’s elves were happy to help the day run smoothly

Emir, Safed, Emira, Semira and Sabina Kulovac

Talking about the day’s fun

22 November 2012 CLONDALKIN Gazette 7

8 CLONDALKIN Gazette 22 November 2012

tribute: local bands invited to add to late musician’s legacy

retail Clearance sale at Lidl unit LIDL in Liffey Valley will hold their popular warehouse clearance sale next weekend, with many bargains ahead of Christmas.

The sale will take place in Unit 9, Liffey Valley Retail Park from Friday, November 30, from 10am to 7pm, and on Saturday, December 1 and Sunday, December 2, from 9am to 6pm.

Customers who are familiar with Lidl’s warehouse clearance sales will know that there are plenty of bargains to be had over the three-day sale, all at rock-bottom prices, say the company.

Special offers will feature each day of the sale, and Lidl are advising customers to come early to avoid disappointment.

Festival to honour Mic Christopher

Expressing concerns: Advocacy group forms to voice older people’s issues THE Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley, recently played host to the launch of a local advocacy group, Older Voices For Change. Comprising members from Clondalkin, Lucan, Palmerstown and Newcastle, the group aims to identify issues affecting the lives of older people in the community, and to advocate for change by bringing these issues to the attention of policy makers and service providers in society. Older Voices for Change is supported by CPLN Area Partnership, and funded by Age & Opportunity under its Get Vocal programme.

THE Mic Christopher Festival, formerly the Hey Day Festival, will take place this Friday and Saturday, November 23 and 24 in Aras Chronain.

The festival will see young Clondalkin bands playing, with prizes awarded to the top acts, including recording time, with a number of Mic’s friends coming in for Saturday night.

The festival was organised by Maureen Christopher, Mic’s sister, who says it “was created to give young songwriters and musicians from Clondalkin an opportunity to showcase their talent” and is “something that Mic really would have approved of”.

Mic’s album, Sky-

larkin’, has entered the annals of Irish musical history as one of the finest Irish albums, and garnered a Meteor Award in 2003.

Sadly, this year marks the 11th anniversary of his death, following a fall in Holland in 2001.

That the music he left behind resonates so loudly around the world is something that Maureen takes a lot from.

“Heyday is one of those songs that everyone really loves. I got a text from a guy who was supporting The Coronas in Glasgow last week and, at the end, the whole venue was singing it.”

Friday will see a number of Clondalkin songwriters and bands

perform their own songs, with two acts being chosen on the night to perform again on Saturday 24, and a chance to win the Mic Christopher Perpetual Trophy, along with other great prizes.

Then, Saturday 24 will be a celebration in memory of Mic, with performances by the winners from Friday night along with friends of Mic’s.

Tickets, priced at €10 for Saturday night, are on sale and available from Loza Wool in the Monastery Shopping Centre, and from Aras Chronain.

Getting tickets early is advisable. For further details, see the Mic Christopher Festival Facebook page, or email heydayfestival@gmail.com.

22 November 2012 CLONDALKIN Gazette 9

planning: more than 200 at meeting

Hundreds object to quarry landfill  paul hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

MORE than 200 people turned out to voice their concerns over a proposed landfill at Behan’s Quarry in Rathcoole last week..

The plan was recently approved by South Dublin County Council and would see an asphalt production facility installed at the site.

The planning application says the facility would carry “no more than 10,000 tonnes per year of imported inert materials”, but the plan has drawn the ire of locals.

A previous plan for a dump at the site was rejected by the council last year because of concerns over traffic congestion on the N7, and the danger the facility would pose to road users.

The plan has been objected to in a number of third-party submissions, with locals voicing concerns over noise, pollution and the impact the plan would have on the health of locals.

Groups such as the Finnstown Input Group have raised objections, and the Rathcoole Community Council said they were worried that “few controls will be imposed on the dump”, adding “Rathcoole is not a place for landfill”.

In 2008, an ill-fated plan was put in place to build an incinerator at the same site. That was rejected a year later by An Bord Pleanala, which also found the costs of the lengthy oral hearing process should be paid by the US company which was to have built the incinerator.

An Taisce, the nation-

al trust, have appealed the decision, citing the proximity to the ruin on Windmill Hill, which is a protected structure.

Speaking at the meeting, Fine Gael Deputy Derek Keating said: “It is no surprise to me that this massive crowd have turned up here tonight to object to this planning permission granted

by South Dublin County Council for the establishment of a dump in the old quarry of Rathcoole.

“This dump will affect not only Rathcoole, but the surrounding areas of Brittas, Athgoe, Saggart and Newcastle and is located in an area where the main water supply for Dublin goes through.”

He added: “I will be submitting a personal objection on behalf of my constituents to An Bord Pleanala before the deadline of November 27.”

FastNews

Enjoy some Christmas A reminder that you cheer at The Laurels can borrow ebooks THE Laurels pub will host a Christmas Craft Fair on Sunday, December 2, from 2pm to 7pm.

There will be a range of jewellery, craft beers and wines, home-made jams and chutney, and many other Christmas gifts for sale on the day.

Children can also visit Santa and his elves at his grotto, and they can also enjoy some carnival rides and carol singing, and admission is free.

For further information, see www.louisfitzgerald.com/laurels.

SOUTH Dublin County Libraries are reminding local readers that they are lending ebooks and audiobooks through their website.

They can be borrowed on smartphones or tablets if you have a South Dublin County Libraries’ borrower card and PIN. The facility allows members to borrow books from the virtual library all day, every day. Readers can choose how long they would like to keep the books, and do not have to worry about being late returning the books.

10 CLONDALKIN Gazette 22 November 2012

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Oliver McCarthy and Olympic medallist John Joe Nevin

Michelle Lynch

Royston Newbridge Club recently attended the IABA 2012 Awards Night at the Green Isle Hotel in Dublin. Pictures: Cathy Weatherston

Fighting spirit

T

HE Irish Amateur Boxing Association (IABA) recently held their Annual Awards Night at the Green Isle Hotel in Dublin.

Sports pundit Jimmy Magee was Master of Ceremonies for the evening.

The awards honoured the Irish London 2012 Olympic team, and Olympic, World and European champion Katie Taylor scooped the

Boxer of the Year Award.

Belfast light flyweight Paddy Barnes received the Outstanding Achievement Award and Joe Ward took home the Best Elite Boxer Award.

The night was thoroughly enjoyed by all, as the boxers all look forward to another successful year ahead.

Danielle McCarthy, Amy Brien and Jamie Rose Ennis

22 November 2012 Gazette 11

Schools P15

dublinlife

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools

asdfsdaf Business P27 P16

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diary P12

ikea: fundraising drive launched by star

Soft toy campaign set to help children’s education UNICEF Ireland ambassador and Irish rugby star Donncha O’Callaghan has officially launched the Ikea Soft Toy fundraising campaign at the Ikea store in Ballymun.

For every Ikea soft toy, children’s book or kid’s meal purchased from now until December 23, Ikea will donate €1 to education programmes worldwide supported by UNICEF Ireland.

This year’s campaign aims to provide quality education to children living in poverty in developing countries.

Since the campaign started in 2003, donations from the annual Ikea Soft Toy Campaign have totalled €47.5m, helping eight million children in more than 40 countries enjoy their right to a quality education.

New to the Ikea soft toy family this year are forest friends including a hedgehog, a bear and an owl hand puppet that encourage curiosity and caring about nature and the environment. They appear on different Vandring textiles, designed

by Ann-Cathrine Sigrid Stahlberg.

Peter Power, executive director of UNICEF Ireland, said the initia-

tive raised vital funds for needy children.

“Last month world leaders rallied together in a final push to meet the global commitment to ensure access to primary education for all children.

“IKEA, the co-workers and customers who have supported the soft toys campaign are helping to make this important goal a reality.”

UNICEF Ireland Ambassador and rugby star Donncha O’Callaghan officially launched the soft toy fundraising campaign with Aoife Quigley (3) from Raheny

Gazette

12 Gazette 22 November 2012

dublinlife

Ethan Manby from Dun Laoghaire, Rossa McSwiney from Sandymount and Lily Dunne Fleming from Dalkey brushed up on their artistic skills for the launch of the 2012 Sightsavers Junior Painter Awards

diary

Sightsavers urge young artists to unleash talents T WO-time Academy Award nominee, and co-founder of Brown Bag Films, Darragh O’Connell, is calling on students to embrace their artistic side and enter the 2012 Sightsavers Junior Painter Awards.

The annual painting competition invites primary school students from Dublin to unleash their talents.

The Sightsavers Junior Painter awards also gives youngsters the opportunity to engage with the value of their sight, and to learn about those children who live without it in the developing world.

The winning student will win a host of prizes from the Art & Hobby

store. In addition, for the first time, the winning student’s school will also win a cash prize.

The closing date for entry is Friday, November 30. Parents and children can get involved by speaking to their school teacher, or by visiting www.sightsavers.ie/juniorpainter, or seeing the Facebook page at www. facebook.com/SightsaversIreland.

xmas jumpers sought for a world record IT MAY be the cheesiest world record attempt ever – but Geansai Nollaig 2012 might also be the most fun.

Dublinatchristmas.

ie is calling on people to gather on O’Connell Street at 4pm on November 25 to try to set a new world record for the highest number of Christmas jumpers in one place. Last year’s attempt secured a record number of 583 wonderful Christmas geansais, and, this year, organisers hope to smash that record.

This year’s record attempt will be in aid of Foroige, the youth organisation in Ireland, which works with approximately 64,000 young people aged 10 to 18 every year through volunteer-led clubs and staff-led youth projects, dealing with issues such

as poverty, achievement at school, school leaving, youth crime, substance abuse and family difficulties.

If you’ve got a (possibly not-so) rare Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer jumper, pull it on, head for O’Connell Street and join in the festive fun.

transform lives with an oxfam gift OXFAM Ireland has launched its Christmas Gifts campaign, which helps to transform lives.

Oxfam Unwrapped 2012 promises that every gift that is bought will go to help those in need.

The campaign supports a range of Oxfam’s work – from emergency responses to advocacy projects. Every year they work out what people need the most, and it is then featured in the gift catalogue.

Gifts include a clutch of chicks or a pair of baby ducks (€27), drought-resistant seeds (€7), piglets (€35), a goat (€38) and a donkey (€47).

Since Oxfam launched the range 10 years ago, Irish people have given more than 140,000 lifechanging gifts and, at the same time, helped to improve the lives of more than 500,000 people in need in countries such as Tanzania and Malawi.

Unwrapped gifts can be purchased online, or in your local Oxfam shop.

For further information, see www.oxfamireland. org/unwrapped.

22 November 2012 Gazette 13

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feature travel

Get on board for a cruise

Gareth Carberry, head chef at Hilton Dublin, won gold at this year’s Hilton Worldwide European Culinary Challenge

Cooking up a storm  Laura Webb

At the tender age of 16, a young man walked into a part-time job at a hotel unaware that cooking would end up being his dream job, and which would see him cook award-winning dishes and travel the world with his skills.

Some 17 years later, Malahide resident Gareth Carberry has won gold at this year’s H i l t o n Wo r l d w i d e European Culinary Challenge, showcasing his culinary skills, while helping boost Dublin’s international reputation for fine food.

Currently working as head chef at Hilton Dublin in Charlemont Place, he was there just six months before he

won gold at the contest in Britain last month.

After being away from Ireland for five years, Gareth thought it was time to come home.

“I was in Dubai for three years and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia for two years. The Middle East was great, Dubai was amazing and Riyadh taught me a lot, but I felt five years was long enough to be away so I decided I would come home.

“I knew the recession had hit here, just like in the Middle East. Some people told me don’t come home, there is nothing at home, but again my family are here so their life is here.

When you live in the Middle East the life is great, but I don’t know if it is a life to raise chil-

dren in so I made a decision to come home,” he told the Gazette.

Luckily for Gareth, it didn’t take him long to land on his feet. He arrived back in Dublin on a Friday, went on to a job-seekers website and found an advert for an executive sous, had an interview the following Wednesday and secured the job by the Saturday.

“I was only a week back. It just proved it was time for me to come home,” he said.

On his recent win at the Hilton Worldwide European Culinary Challenge, he said it is a “great start” to his new role.

“I am absolutely thrilled. The competition was in partnership

with Nestle, who have brought out a new product called Chef Lamb Flakes. The Hilton was asked to put it out to chefs with some guidelines like using lamb shoulder and what way we can use the lamb flakes.

“I entered and I was very lucky to get into the final and we went to England to the Nestle headquarters and I won gold – which was wonderful,” he said.

The winning dish was a braised lamb shoulder fillet with a stuffed savoy cabbage, romanesco puree and some heirloom baby vegetables.

“I hope to have it on the menu at Hilton Dublin’s restaurant, Uisce. The romanesco is

a very seasonal product so I have to try and get something that is more sustainable all year round, but also complements the lamb, so I am just working on that.

“I have just changed the Uisce menu concept so basically it is to focus on Irish produce and use them in innovative ways.

“It has broke away from the normal starter, main and dessert so instead it will be in sections like – nibbles, seafood, meats, poultry – so it gives you the choice to have two or three courses, four courses, because we made portions that little bit smaller to give people a chance to eat more on the menu.”

According to Gareth it is very important to

him to use local Irish produce.

“We have wonderful produce in this country and we should be using more of them,” he said.

Gareth also worked in Bang Cafe and Shanahans on the Green before his move to Dubai where he worked at Grand Hyatt and later joined Rosewoods Hotel and Resort in Riyadh.

He now overlooks all food aspects of the Hilton Dublin Hotel in the city centre, overlooking the Grand Canal.

Here he looks after four outlets from the Irish-themed restaurant Uisce, Still Bar, room service and banquet which can old up to 280 people.

With the really cold weather reputed to be just around the corner, the prospect of chilling out on a cruise is a fairly appealing one.

To help you to “sale” into 2013 and brighter waters, Thomas Cook Cr uise are offering cruise packages for under €1,000, including flights until November 26.

Until that date, there is a special sale on cruises to a variety of destinations in 2013, including a five-night Western Mediterranean fly/ cruise from €979 per person in April 2 013 , w i t h $ 5 0 onboard spend.

A l t e r n a t i ve l y, there is an eightnight Norway Fly/ Cruise from €1,479 per person in May 2013, or a sevennight Dubai f ly/ cruise from €1,262 in February 2013.

Both include $100 onboard spend per room, as does the offer of a seven-night France and Spain fly/cruise onboard from €1,309 per person in May 2013.

All offers include an upgrade from an oceanview room to a balcony stateroom.

For more information, call the Thomas Cook Cruise team in Dublin on 01 514 0336, visit your local travel agent or log on to www.thomascookcruise.ie.

Gazette

14 Gazette 22 November 2012

dublinlife

The juniors from Plunket College who played at DCU Sports Ground put on a spirited display of sportsmanship in a tag rugby competition

sport: school’s juniors battle it out in a rugby contest

Trying to tag a victory  curtis Delaney Plunket College, Whitehall

ON FRIDAY, November 9, a select few of our juniors in Plunket College went to DCU Sports Ground to participate in a tag rugby competition.

The team set off in the early morning, accompanied by two of their teachers, Mr Lynch and Mr McHugh.

Despite heavy rain, the team got on with the task at hand. There were teams from schools all around the city, with both male and female

players.

Plunket were drawn in a group of four teams, and managed to come out on top. We had outstanding performances from some of our key players.

The whole team performed at their peak; however, Daniel Lynch managed to stand out from the crowd – the leader of the pack.

At full-time, the teams were invited into the club for some food, and the banter between the lads continued over a nutritious lunch.

The organisers made

Facing into some spirited competition

an announcement, giving prizes to the school that made the best effort. Unfortunately, we didn’t win this prize; however, our players

were invited to have pictures taken with the Heineken Cup. It was a well-organised event, with extra incentives thrown in for

the participants. Each student left the games with a gift pack but, more importantly, with a renewed love of the game.

open night: warm welcome for prospective students

School opens up for questions  jason nesbitt

Riversdale Community College

LAST month, Riversdale Community College hosted an open evening to give prospective students and their parents an opportunity to experience the school’s facilities.

On the night, 150 parents took a tour of the school to ensure that it was the right one for their children.

Upon arrival, parents were greeted by members of the Student Council, and were given a welcome pack.

After enjoying a per-

formance from the school’s band and choir in the assembly hall, parents were directed to the school’s library, where they met the school principal, Tony Barry, and had an opportunity to ask any questions.

Parents and incoming students enjoyed the

various exhibitions of students’ work, which included live science experiments in the labs, as well as art, metalwork and woodwork projects undertaken by the students.

Other exhibitors on the night included NUI Maynooth, Bank of Ireland,

Blanchardstown Youth Service, Junior Achievement Awards and Gaisce, the President’s Award.

Prospective students have until the end of next January to enrol.

Further information is available on the school website, at www.riversdalecc.com.

22 November 2012 Gazette 15

class acts: plenty of events

schoolLife

Pink Day success in a happening place  Behshta Bakhshi

Blakestown Community School

STUDENTS at Blakestown had a busy week in the run-up to mid-term.

Every year, the school runs various events to reward the students, and provides an opportunity to express their talents.

Throughout October, we had three big events take place.

Firstly, the sixth-year L CA B r o s n a n cl a s s organised Blakestown’s Got Talent, as part of an assignment they were working on with Ms Kinsella.

The audience of firstand second-year students were treated to fantastic performances from a wide variety of acts, including rappers, singers and dancers.

Secondly, Blakestown were delighted to have [the initiative] Show Racism The Red Card, and FAI representatives in attendance, to film their new education pack.

As All-Ireland winners from 2011, Blakestown

SCHOOl

Matters p ro m ote your e v ents

CONTACT US WITH YOUR NEWS

6010240

Of course, staff, too, including principal Eileen O’Connor joined in the school’s events in the run-up to mid-term, such as the Show Racism the Red Card initiative

was selected to feature in the new DVD being filmed by the production team, Maxfilms.

During the filming, a group of second-year students were treated to some coaching in the gym with class teacher Ms Byrne and FAI coaches Paul Keogh, Michael Ryan and Des Tomlinson.

The final scenes were filmed in the boardroom, where the school’s commitee of students and Ms Quinn discussed scenarios and examples of racism and how it impacts children’s lives.

Thirdly, the final event that took place was Pink Day, which was organised by Ms McCullagh and Fiona Dunne to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer.

This was the second year running that the school had got involved; l a s t y e a r, i t r a i s e d €1,238.

The event was a huge success, where students were allowed to have a non-uniform day and wear something pink to raise funds.

Students and teachers were very creative in their pink choices, with fluttering pink eyelashes to superhero pink masks being worn to mark the event.

Ever ybody seemed to get a great buzz out of wearing the bright colour, and it certainly brightened up the last day of term in style.

Gazette

schools Get involved with our new schools pages

These Blakestown students joined in the fun of Pink Day at the school, which was held to fundraise for breast cancer, and which saw students dressing or accessorising in pink to help support the great cause

We are reaching out to all the schools in our catchment areas to become a closer part of our community than ever before.

Schools are the beating hearts of communities, one of the last places around which a community can gather. We are calling on budding writers and photographers from all of our schools to help fill the pages and, in order to encourage the next generation of journalists and snappers to get involved, we are partnering with Harvey Norman to present the Dublin Gazette Newspapers Cub Reporter and Cub Photographer of the Year awards.

For further details, contact me at rheigh@gazettegroup.com, or telephone 01 601 0240.

GAZETTE

16 GAZETTE 22 November 2012

DUBLINLIFE

Q&A

IAN DOWNES, FRANGOS WORLD CUISINE

Serving up a great way to keep Dundrum happy IAN Downes is a catering industry expert, with more than 20 years’ experience.

Having started at the age of 15 as a waiter, Ian has worked his way up and is now the general manager of Frangos World Cuisine in Dundrum Town Centre.

Frangos is Ireland’s largest family restaurant, serving thousands of cus-

tomers every week.

Occupying most of the third level in Dundrum Town Centre, Frangos is renowned for providing fresh food, produced on-site, and is great value for money, says Ian. He has also taken the position of general manager at The Jack Nicklaus Room in Killeen Castle Golf Club, Dunsany, Co Meath

How long have you been in business?

I believe that the recession has made us stronger as a business.

We have an amazing team of staff who, along with management, have understood that our success depends on turning each new customer into a regular customer, and we have many great customers who are supporting us through this recession.

I have been involved in catering for over 20 years. I was 15 when I got my first job as a waiter, working with my mam and aunty in the Hotel Kilkenny. I have been with Frangos World Cuisine for almost six years, and have been general manager for the past three years.

What makes your business successful?

We are based in the award-winning Dundrum Town Centre, which is one of Europe’s top shopping and restaurant destinations. This gives us a great platform to work from. We have established a reputation as a great place for families and shoppers to eat, and we pride ourselves on excellent customer service.

What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?

We cook our food freshly every day, using fresh local produce. We are Ireland’s largest family restaurant and provide a wide range of options, including a deli, pizzeria, steak bar, carvery, wok bar and bakery. A lot of our dishes are cooked to order, right in front of our customers, and I believe this is unique for a restaurant as big as ours. We look for the best dishes from around the world, and offer a menu that will appeal to all tastes and budgets.

How has the recession impacted your business?

What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business?

I’ll leave the laws to the lawmakers.

What is the best business advice you ever received?

Hire the right person and let them do their job.

What is your ambition for the business?

I would love to see a Frangos in every town in Ireland, but for now I’m happy to develop the brand and continue providing an excellent place for people to come and eat with family and friends. Eating out is a social occasion, and I love seeing families dining together and talking. Sometimes, we have three generations of a family sitting together and eating – that really makes my day.

What is your favourite thing about doing business in your local area?

I love working in Dundrum. The customers and staff in the centre are great. It is like working in a village, where everyone kind of knows everyone else.

BUSINESS

Supported

by AIB

Pensions made simple THERE are currently more than 420,000 Irish citizens over the age of 65 and, by the year 2050, there will be 1.8 million citizens over this age – 767,300 by 2026, meaning that 16 years from now, more than 16% of the population will be in retirement.

In 2010, for every person who retired, there were six workers. In 2051, for every retired person, there will only be two.

If you are happy to live on the current State pension of €230.30 each week, or whatever it will be when you retire, then do nothing. But, you cannot discount the notion that, by the time you retire, there may not be enough money in the kitty to pay your weekly pension.

Even if you are only on the lower rate of tax (20%), it still makes sense to invest in a pension. For example: 1. For every €100 invested, it is only costing you €80 – meaning that the fund would have to drop by 20% before you actually start losing money. On the higher rate of tax, it makes even more sense and, though there are signs of the relief being reduced over the coming years, even at the 20% rate it makes sense.

2. All growth in the fund is tax-free.

3. When you retire, 25% of this fund can be taken by way of a-tax free lump sum, up to a maximum of €200,000. You can still take the full 25% of the fund, but if that is more than €200,000, you will have to pay taxes on the excess.

All companies are now obliged to both nominate

an insurance company for pension contributions, and have a facility to make deductions for such contributions directly from your salary. There is a €15,000 potential fine if they haven’t.

Current Government thinking may see employers being forced into making a minimum 4% contribution to employee pensions, and employees forced into 2% contributions for an initial minimum period.

This is a far cry from the permitted age thresholds: 1) Up to 29 years of age – 15% of net relevant earnings; 2) 30 – 39 years – 20% of net relevant earnings; 3) 40 – 49 years – 25% of net relevant earnings; 4) 50 years-plus – 30% of net relevant earnings; 5) 55 years-plus – 35% of net relevant earnings; 6) Over 60-years – 40% of net relevant earnings.

You have the nuts and bolts of pension parameters – in Part 2, next week, I shall tell you what you should consider when choosing a pension plan.  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

PORTLAOISE: NATIONAL BID TO UTILISE SKILLS, IDEAS

Business workshop seeks over-50s entrepreneurs

DUBLIN City Enterprise Board and Senior Enterprise are looking to introduce people aged over 50 to the world of entrepreneurship, and help bring their business ideas to fruition at a national twoday residential workshop to be held on November 26 and 27 in Portlaoise.

With more than 4,000 people aged over 50 starting new businesses in Ireland last year, the organisers hope that that number can be doubled with these types of event.

The aim of the workshop is to give budding entrepreneurs the opportunity to develop a business plan to help them establish their new business.

It is suitable for those who have an idea for a business venture and who would like assistance in taking it from concept to commercial reality.

Greg Swif t, chief executive, Dublin City Enterprise Board, said: “Entrepreneurs make a substantial impact on the Irish economy in terms of job creation, innovation and productivity.

“Our brief is to encourage entrepreneurship at a local level, and we believe that there is untapped entrepreneurial potential in the over-50s population.”

Senior Enterprise is recognised in Europe for its innovative approach to nurturing a greater engagement of those aged

Launching the two-day workshop were Hugh Reilly, chief executive, Meath County Enterprise Board; John Brophy, entrepreneur and owner of Carrig Solutions; John Byrne, director, Senior Enterprise and Aine Cuddihy, entrepreneur and owner of The Minicake Company

50-plus with business.

Its director, John Byrne, said: “Many individuals now have an opportunity to realise an idea or business concept they believe in.”

The cost is €75 for the two-day workshop, which includes all training mate-

rial, food and accommodation (single occupancy) in the hotel.

To apply, contact your local County Enterprise Board; to find the board nearest to you, see http:// www.enterpriseboards. ie/find_your_enterprise_ board.aspx.

22 November 2012 Gazette 17

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asdfsdaf P27 TRAVEl P25

MOTORS P24

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 can you give alaska a home?

Greg Proops returns to Dublin for the second Smartest Man In The World podcast of the year on November 29 at Whelan’s. Picture: Sreang Hok/Oregon Daily Emerald

interview: whose line star returns to Dublin for special online show

Laughing in the Proople reign  rob heigh

It’s not very often that we get to talk to a certified genius, but this week, we got to talk to The Smartest Man In The World.

That man is Greg Proops, stand-up comedian and improviser extraordinaire, who will be back in Dublin next week to take to the stage at Whelan’s to present his podcast, The Smartest Man...

This is the second time this year Greg has been in town to host the show, which is a blend of his unique and hilarious musings on politics, culture, literature, baseball, and everything in between.

What started as a backroom enterprise has grown into a hugely popular live experience, with the crowd invited to join in and query Greg on literally any subject as part of the show.

When Out & About caught up with

Greg, he was making plans for his return to Ireland, and started by asking him what was bringing him back from Hollywood so soon.

“I love Dublin - the vibe, the kebabs and the craic,” said Greg. “The audience is so smart and with it. I can read poetry and no one thinks it is unusual. A town filled with bookstores, music stores, great cheese and seafood? Bring it on.

“And I love performing in Ireland, the crowds are so sincere.”

Greg is probably best known for his appearances on the improvisational comedy show, Whose Line Is It Anyway? on Channel 4 in the 80s and 90s. What people here probably don’t know is that his career on the show continued in the US for a further eight seasons when ABC picked up the format for American audiences.

He has also appeared on stand-up

stages across the world, and occasionally in film – although you may not have recognised him in the Star Wars prequel, The Phantom Menace, when he played one half of pod-race announcer, Fode.

With such a range of creative careers, we naturally asked him which his favourite was.

“Whose Line has been vital to my life.

It allowed me to work with all the great people I still work with, like the Comedy Store Players and Ryan Stiles in the USA. Stand-up is my armour. Acting is fun when I can get a gig, but I am bloody awful at showbiz.

“Podcasting has been a profound turn for me. I can be myself and rant and rave and sing and drink and it goes directly to the audience without any corporate filter. People love that it is from the heart.

I love that people have been so positive about it. No TV network, no meetings,

no advertisers, no nonsense. Just our own nonsense.”

Proops is one of a vanguard of comedians – including Marc Maron, Jay Mohr, and Aisha Tyler – who have created an outlet for their talents via the podcast medium. How did Greg get the podcast bug?

“The producers, Matt and Ryan, asked me. I knew I couldn’t do the interview format as it was being done so well by so many [Maron, Mohr and Tyler’s shows all take the form of extended interviews].

So, the big moment came when we did the first one live. All the podcasts are now in front of a live crowd, and all are improvised to notes. The show organically evolved into the diatribe that it is now - I love riffing [on] the podcast and seeing how far I can go.”

Continued on Page 23

DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust, Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity, to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs.

Our Dog of the Week is Alaska, a two-year-old husky. This beautiful lady was born with a congenital deformity in her leg. She was still trying to put weight on it which was really uncomfortable for her, so it had to be amputated. She received loads and loads of TLC in Dogs Trust, is like a new dog and loving life on three legs.

She is extremely sweet and affectionate and would need to go to a forever home with big kids (12+) and no other doggies. If you think you can give this gorgeous girl all the cuddles and love she so deserves, contact Dogs Trust at 01 879 1000.

Further information about their work can be found on their website at www. dogstrust.ie.

All dogs that are adopted from Dogs Trust are vet-checked, vaccinated, neutered and micro-chipped before being re-homed.

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 22 November 2012

OUT&ABOUT

STYLE

BEAUTY news Have a good hair day and be happier inside and out!

Marks & Spencer €135

Pennies €19

 LAURA WEBB

IT seems that waking up to a bad hair day can affect how we view ourselves and how others see us, with recent research by Pantene showing the state of our hair can alter our mood.

Commonly people do judge each other within seconds of meeting so having great hair can make a great first impression.

Pantene Pro-V Smooth and Sleek has launched the world’s first hair care regime entirely formulated for different hair structures to create healthy-looking locks for every hair-type, so every day is a Good Hair Day. In a recent study, women judged others based on their hair condition. Dr Bernhard Fink from the University of Goettingen revealed: “Women with smooth hair were judged to be more attractive and healthier and were considered to be calmer, more in control, and less stressed than those with frizzy hair.”

The research also revealed that hair doesn’t just affect our perception of others, but also our own mood. Women with smooth hair felt more attractive, healthier and younger than women with frizzy hair. Dr Fink explains: “Women thought they would feel calmer, more balanced, more determined, and stronger on a ‘good hair’ day, whereas they associated feelings like stress, loss of control, nervousness and irritability with a ‘bad hair’ day.”

Pa r t y G l a mH!I C S G R E AT G R A P

astic par ty e ball with fant th of le el b e u are th r €65 Make sure yo from Awear fo ne o is th e lik dress

Debenhams €85 Awear €65

Next €114

To help achieve a ‘good hair day’ Pantene Pro-V Smooth and Sleek has three simple steps to adhere to: Step 1: Pantene Pro-V Smooth and Sleek Shampoo: helps your hair behave as healthy hair should by increasing each strand’s barrier function, like a moisturiser does to the skin, calming frizz into silky smooth hair.

Fran & Jane €249

Step 2: Pantene Pro-V Smooth and Sleek Conditioner: contains a mix of ingredients similar to your hair’s natural lipid surface layer, to provide extra moisturisation and smoothness.

Dunnes €60

Next €87

Step 3: Pantene Pro-V Smooth and Sleek 2min Masques: are super concentrated to lock out humidity to help prevent frizz, moisturising hair to leave it silky smooth. Use a masque once a week for a deep smoothing care.

So take care of your hair and be a happier, more relaxed!

22 November 2012 Gazette 19

 CHRISTMAS GUIDE

party locations

Season’s greetings from Dublin Gazette Newspapers! Let us make your Yule cool with our guide to festive event venues and party planning across the city

You’ll be spoiled for choice at The Courtyard Hotel where parties can enjoy entertainment and a delicious dinner, from just €48 per person.

Entertainment in the RiverBank includes local bands The Harley’s and Hush, and returning once again this year will be renowned magician, Rodrigo Furtado.

With festive buffet menus from just €38, and options to upgrade to sit-down meals, those who are planning parties will be spoiled for choice.

Included in each pack-

age is also the Court Yard House Band followed by a live DJ. The RiverBank Restaurant at the hotel offers a great value three-course festive Early Bird menu for just €22.50, from Monday to Thursday, as well as a new “Wine & Dine” package for €59, treating couples to a fourcourse meal, to include a bottle of wine. This package is available until 7pm on Friday and Saturday.

For casual diners, the hotel is pleased to

announce the Sunday lunch menu will continue as usual throughout the Christmas period, while a new family-style dining option has also been added.

Arthur’s Live, the newly-refurbished venue, is also taking bookings for finger food and canapes for more informal occasions. For a full list of the live entertainment lineup, see www.courtyard.ie For more information, call 01 629 5100, or e-mail sales@courtyard.ie.

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party attire

partytime ENJOY the magic and sparkle of Christmas at the Court Yard Hotel, Leixlip, where it will be brimming with party fun and Christmas cheer.

With something for everyone, the Court Yard Hotel is the perfect place to celebrate with family, friends and corporate parties, and caters for parties of all sizes, from two to 100 people.

The RiverBank Restaurant, Grill and Wine Bar has re-introduced their Christmas Party Nights,

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The facilities at the Court Yard Hotel are second to none

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party planning

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20 Gazette 22 November 2012

OUT&ABOUT

Get on track for a Christmas hamper As one of Dublin’s most popular public transport systems, Luas will be making sure commuters get home safe this Christmas.

And to celebrate the festive season, Luas will be offering its customers a chance to win a Christmas dinner every day until December 9.

The ready-to-cook Christmas dinner hamper is ideal for a family of six to eight people, taking the hard work out of the Christmas preparations and giving you more time to meet up with friends, get your shopping done and really get into the festive spirit. This competition proved highly successful last year with a very significant uptake.

A total of 28 lucky winners will receive a hamper, which will be delivered on December 22 complete with full instructions on how to cook the perfect Christmas dinner for you and your guests.

The hamper includes Burren Smokehouse Salmon, a 16lb free range turkey, a fillet of pale ham, vegetables as well as all the Christmas trimmings.

Amongst the other goodies are a Christmas pudding and a selection of artisan Tipperary Cheese. In order to enter, grab your Luas ticket, leapcard or travel pass and click on the Luas Facebook page at www. facebook.com/luas and follow the instructions.

Get everything right With the festive season looming closely on the horizon, talk of the company Christmas party has no doubt begun and, for those presented with the role of organising it, the task can be a daunting prospect.

With many hotels and venues offering special Christmas party packages, often the hassle is taken out of your hands, but we have a range of recommendations available to help you organise a memorable celebration for you and your colleagues.

Choosing the location for your Christmas party can be crucial

Set the Date With Christmas being a busy period, diaries get pencilled in fast.

Send potential dates around the office and make sure you find a preferred date as early as possible. Not every date chosen

will suit everybody so remember, majority rules. Choose a date and finalise numbers to help you begin your planning.

Set the Budget The size of your company’s Christmas party will ultimately depend on the size of the budget you are allocated.

Discuss with the powers that be the budget you are allowed to spend and decide how best to dispense that budget between your venue and the food and drink it will provide.

The Christmas party is ultimately a way of saying “thank you” to the company staff, so it will need to be organised with their best interests in mind.

Type of Christmas Party Choosing the type of Christmas party your company will

22 November 2012 Gazette 21

 CHRISTMAS GUIDE

for your party night have will depend on both your budget and the amount of people attending.

Decide whether you will be hosting a day event, an evening event or both.

Do you have a budget that will accommodate husbands, wives and partners or will it be a celebration for employees only?

While more always means merrier, if a budget doesn’t allow for extras, ensure you don’t compromise the quality of your party.

Location, Location, Location With Christmas parties often taking place at the end of a work day, choosing the location can be a crucial element to the success of the party.

See what is available in your

area, choose a local pub, restaurant or venue, or look for something a little different, such as team building classes or group activities.

Some venues will also host a pre-packaged Christmas party, where a coordinator will provide a function room, entertainment and a menu, taking

the most difficult part of the planning out of your hands.

The earlier you book the venue, the better, as good venues can get snapped up quickly.

Post-Party The Christmas Party will no doubt be a success, but finding

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out what your guests enjoyed about the event and what they didn’t can help you put on an even better show next year.

During the post-Christmas party recuperations, send out an email requesting feedback from the party goers and any recommendations they may have for next year’s festivities.

Right Royal rumpus Unique cabaret night at Marine

Some venues host pre-packaged Christmas parties with decorated function rooms

the royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire is holding a Christmas Cabaret in early December to get the festive season under way early.

On the bill are old favourites like Sonny Knowles, Paddy Cole, Noel V Ginnity, George Hunter and Galaxy. The cabaret will take place on Tuesday, December 4 in the Royal Marine Hotel. For more details on the event, contact the hotel on 01 230 0030 or log on to www.royalmarine.ie.

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22 Gazette 22 November 2012

OUT&ABOUT 

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Funk up your Christmas

The Fair Isle Jumper and cardigan range

With the vogue for pop-up shops adding extra fun to Christmas party events in inventive ways, Funky Christmas Jumpers have brought those two ideas together and have opened a Funky Christmas Jumpers pop-up boutique at 60 South William Street in Dublin’s city centre.

The Irish-owned company, providers of fun, high quality Christmas jumpers, are extending their collection this year, with a range of 13 adult jumpers, three jumper designs for children and even Funky Christmas socks, so that festive enthusiasts can stand out and make

a statement this Christmas and light up and add extra cheer to their Christmas events.

Funky Christmas Jumpers has become the go-to fun Christmas jumper destination for Irish and international celebrities in recent years, and their designs have been spotted on everyone from Jedward to rugby legends Brian O’Driscoll and Cian Healy, as well as former Miss World, Rosanna Davison, TV presenting duo Ant and Dec and T V presenter and DJ Vernon Kay. For the last two years, Ryan Tubridy has also worn Funky Christmas Jumpers when presenting the Late Late Toy Show, with his jumper s e l e c t i o n p r ov i d i n g much intrigue in the

days and weeks leading up to the perennially popular show.

Funkychristmasjumpers.com was

McSharry.

The business has gone from strength to strength and the enthusiasm and networking

Ryan Tubridy has worn this Rudolph The Ryandeer jumper on the Late Late Toy Show

started five years ago and is now run by duo Fabio Molle and Donal

ability of these Dubliners will ensure the continued success of Funky Christmas Jumpers in

the future.

“We are so excited to be opening our funky pop-up boutique in such a fantastic location.

“The website is thriving with orders coming in from all over the world, so we are really looking forward to welcoming customers to our Funky Christmas Jumpers boutique to see and try on the full collection,” said McSharry and Molle.

You can find out more about Funky Christmas Jumpers on Facebook (Facebook. com/FunkyChristmasJumpers), on Twitter at @XmasJumpers, and online at FunkyChristmasJumpers.com.

The company have also created an iPhone app which can be downloaded from the Apple App Store.

Festive Arch Christmas fare at popular venue CHRISTMAS is coming soon to the Arch

Bistro and the Glenside Pub in Churchtown, and they are pulling out all the stops to help organise Chrismas parties down to a tee. As well as the lunch and dinners on offer, The Arch will reserve a special area in the pub for your party to enjoy the live music, and special taxi rates can be organised. Menus are available at www.thearchbistro.com, or call 01 296 6340.

Gazette

22 November 2012 CLONDALKIN gazette 23

OUT&ABOUT

Interview

CINEMA

Greg Proops from p17

The Sapphires get to grips with the big stage

cinema: Ireland’s own chris o’dowd makes waves down under

A sparkling gem  paul hosford

phosford@gazettegroup.com

IT must be pretty good to be Chris O’Dowd right about now.

He starred in one of last year’s most popular comedies (Bridesmaids), had a hit on Sky TV (Moone Boy) and recently married an impossibly good looking woman (Dawn Porter).

For his next trick, O’Dowd will elevate an Australian period comedy to the point of genuinely endearing.

Of course, O’Dowd isn’t the only good thing about The Sapphires, but he is definitely the best thing.

Based on the 2004 play of the same name, The Sapphires tells the

semi-true story of an Aboriginal all-girl group who travel to Vietnam in 1968.

Vietnam in 1968 is of course, a war zone and the girls are committed to perform for the US troops.

No mention is made of the Australian military, which allows the girls to be used as a parallel with the Civil Rights movement back in the States.

Of course, the 60’s was a time of civil rights movements across the world and by 1968, the Aboriginal people in Australia had endured over a decade of near slavery and displacement.

Normally, films that tackle the civil rights era either dip their toes in the subject or have white people as the heroes (Mississippi Burning, The Help etc.)

In T he Sapphires, O’Dowd’s Dave Love-

Film of the Week: The Sapphires h h h h (12A) 103mins Director: Wayne Blair Starring: Chris O’Dowd, Deborah Mailman, Jessica Mauboy, Shari Sebbens, Miranda Tapsell

OUR VERDICT: A VERY sweet, uplifting and warm comedy that has the bravery to take on a weightier subject, The Sapphires is a film that, much like its protagonists, refuses to be defined by any perceived boundaries. The star of the show is undoubtedly O’Dowd, who makes every scene he’s in sparkle, but huge credit must go to Deborah Mailman, who anchors the story beautifully.

lace is clueless to the plight of Australia’s indigenous people as well as being just plain clueless.

W h e n h i s d o p e y, soul-obsessed manager meets three singing sisters, all of their worlds are changed, as they head to Vietnam.

The introduction of the girl’s cousin Kay, whose r unning conflict with eldest sister Gail sets the context for much of the racial discussion, is a clever touch.

The girls roles are clearly defined, which

helps the film settle into a comfortable rhythm.

Gail, played by Deborah Mailman, is the rock of the family and her narky running battle with Dave gives the film some of its best interactions.

M i r a n d a Ta p s e l l ’s Cy nthia is man and fame hungry, Shari Sebbens Kay is the goodlooking one and Jessica Mauboy’s Julie is the lead singer.

The youngest of the girls, Julie has a child back home and is desperate to become famous to provide a

better life for her son.

All told, the characters conform to handy archety pes, but are played with a depth and warmth that really papers over that, which is a recurring theme throughout the film.

O’Dowd’s trademark charm is utilised time and again to rescue the film from some particularly clunky dialogue and the musical interludes are leaned on to get the film to its 103 minute running time.

That is not to say, however that the film is reliable just on those two things.

The acting throughout is strong and Mailman puts in a stellar performance and the bravery and likeability is enough to cover the film’s flaws.

With O’Dowd on top form playing almost against type, this is a film that for the most part sparkles.

Greg has podcasted from all around the world, away from the show’s home in West Hollywood, from places as far afield as a cruise ship in the Caribbean, the Edinburgh Festival and our very own Whelan’s. Given the very political and cultural nature of the show, and the fact that it always seems that he is ridiculously well versed in local matters, how much research does he do before a show?

“I read the papers and go out drinking! I’ve discovered that people overseas are even more involved in the subjects they find important - music, art, politics, literature. I learn so much from the people I play with, everywhere I go.”

The blend of intelligent analysis of current and cultural affairs and comedy is reminiscent of stand-up legends Bill Hicks and George Carlin. How much of an influence were comics like these on Greg’s career?

“Huge. Carlin is my favorite comedian and I listen to Hicks for inspiration. They were warrior poets in the classic mode.”

Finally, what lessons has Greg learned from podcasting? “The future is a pretty open field. Jump right in, is what I’ve learned.”

Greg Proops performs upstairs at Whelan’s on November 29, tickets are €14 and are available at www. wavtickets.ie. You can find Greg’s podcast at www. gregproops.com or on iTunes.

Gazette

24 CLONDALKIN gazette 22 November 2012

OUT&ABOUT

MOTORS

New showroom is Audi’s biggest in Ireland If they haven’t been there already, Audi fans in Dublin should make their way to the newly-opened state-of-the-art showroom at Audi North Dublin.

Just off Exit 5 M50 in North Park, North Road, Dublin 11, the dealership is now the largest Audi showroom, sales and service centre in Ireland. The €10m investment will see the creation of up to 30 jobs over the next two years and forms part of an overall strategic plan which sees Audi Ireland invest

€80m over the next 18 months, creating in the region of 260 jobs. Group chief executive at Audi North Dublin, Gavin Hydes, commented: “The opening of our new Audi North Dublin terminal is a significant statement of intent. The new showroom will superbly showcase the exciting 2013 Audi model range and provide an unparalleled customer experience together with premium parts and aftersales services.”

The CX-5 offers class-leading space in the boot, with space for four full-sized suitcases

An exceptionally complete Mazda

 cormac curtis

There’s a joke among motoring journalists that if a company launches a car in an exotic location with dancing girls, it’s not because they’re proud of the new arrival, it’s because they’re hoping to distract you.

Earlier this year Mazda released their new compact SUV, the CX-5, in Vienna, and as beautiful as Vienna is, the city couldn’t compete with the stunning new offering.

It’s always nice to be one of the first to test drive a new car, but it’s always more reassuring to get behind the wheel on your own turf, as I did with the CX-5 last month.

Starting with the allimportant looks, we are talking about something that is unmistakably Mazda, but with an allnew excitement and edge to it.

We’re told that the inspiration for the front end of the car is the cheetah, and, even if you never see the resemblance, the look does evoke a slight sense of menace.

You can follow the

chrome line that surrounds the grille right through into the headlights, an absolutely gorgeous design touch in my books.

The headlight clusters themselves sit at a very nice angle that follows the contours of the body, while at the same time bulging out to sit proud of the bodywork.

The power comes from a choice of engines, and those available in the Irish market are a 2-litre petrol with 165bhp, a 2.2litre diesel with 150bhp and a 2.3-litre diesel with 170bhp.

It may not be something you will need to use all that often, but the sat nav system in the car is of the TomTom variety – one of my personal favourites.

The interior of the car offers some very useful cargo space, with a threeway split for the seats, all folding down with ease to cater for a variety of load options.

With the seats up, the CX-5 actually offers classleading space in the boot, with space for four fullsized suitcases, beating both the VW Tiguan (2-3 cases) and the Ford Kuga

(3 cases).

For those moments of musical indulgence, there is a terrific Bose sound system with nine high-performance speakers and background noise compensation technology.

On the safety front, Mazda’s smart City Brake support feature is also included – offering automatic emergency braking at a 6-metre distance when travelling between 4 and 30 km/h.

Other safety features are a rear vehicle monitoring system, that lights up an LED in your rearview mirror when another vehicle is passing, as well as a lane departure warning system, where the steering wheel vibrates if you stray too far from the centre of your lane.

There are some visibility issues as the body work around the C pillar is somewhat intrusive, and the more powerful of the diesel engines might be considered a touch on the noisy side.

But, with prices starting at €25,195 for the petrol version, this is a car that will appeal to an awful lot of people.

22 November 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25

CORK: CONTEMPORARY COMFORTS AT A 200-YEAR-OLD HOTEL

Enjoy an Imperial, relaxing getaway  NATALIE BURKE nburke@gazettegroup.com

WHILE Cork is famed for its traditional villages and historical landmarks, and celebrated for its scenic countryside, its city has never been one to be deprived of recognition.

Playing host to Queen Elizabeth in recent years, and ranked as one of Lonely Planet’s top-10 cities, Cork city has a host of acclamations to be proud of.

Situated on the picturesque River Lee, the city has a clear dedication to the arts, entertaining numerous festivals throughout the year.

It celebrates the Cork Jazz festival in October and is set to see A Cork Christmas arrive this December.

The city is also a clear mecca for foodies, which seemed fitting when we arrived at our hotel destination, the Cork Imperial hotel.

The four-star accommodation is located on the doorstep to the city’s finest fish and meat markets, a stone’s throw from the popular English Market, and just a brief stroll to some of the city’s best dining destinations.

The aptly-named relaxation suite at the Cork Imperial Hotel presents a wonderfully calming environment

Taking my mum on a girly break to the fourstar Cork Imperial saw us arrive at one of the city’s most central havens.

The hotel prides itself on possessing a “contemporary luxury” – a detail immediately evident upon arrival.

The high ceilings, lowhanging chandeliers and meandering hallways were a gentle reminder of the building’s 1812 origins.

After settling into our third-f loor bedroom, and admiring the folded bath robe and chocolates presented on each bed, we made our way to the hotel’s main dining room,

the Pembroke Grill.

As one of the city’s top restaurants, the chefs at the Pembroke Grill make the most of their surroundings, using fresh local produce to complement the varied menu.

Dinner brought with it a warm goat’s cheese and fennel tartlet, West Cork smoked salmon and an indulgent dessert of Malteser cheesecake with fruit coulis, before we enjoyed some after-dinner drinks in the cosy alcoves of South’s Bar – a haven, it seemed, for both guests and Cork locals alike.

Since a girly break away wouldn’t be complete without some self-indul-

gence, we treated ourselves to some down-time the following morning, at the aptly-named Escape Spa, located on the lower floor of the hotel.

The boutique-style spa embraces the use of the popular Aveda brand in their treatments, as well as a vitality suite, an aroma salt grotto, an Evian hydrotherapy pool, a relaxation suite and friendly staff members.

My treatment was a personalised elemental nature facial – a 60-minute facial that used a customised masque, personallychosen aroma oils and some extremely relaxing facial techniques.

With Michael Collins and Charles Dickens named proudly as former guests of the historic hotel, you can see why the Cork Imperial still manages to attract such a huge influx of guests.

The lobby is busy with visitors coming and going, but the restaurant and bar have a steady stream of peaceful company, with the city streets failing to impact on the tranquil interiors of what must be one of Cork City’s most cherished retreats.

For further details on the packages available at the Cork Imperial, see www.flynnhotels.com, or telephone 021 427 4040.

GAZETTE

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jim gavin interview P29

asdfsdaf P27 soccer P28

dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community

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gaelic games P31

FastSport METS unable to end DCU Run:

Setanta hurling club members Liam O’Brien, Breandain O’Geargain, Martin O’Shea and Theresa O’Brien at the launch of There is an ‘F’ in Hurling

publication: ‘nitty gritty’ history of fledgling wild geese released

Lenihan launches There Is An ‘F’ in Hurling in Croke Park CHARTING the highs and lows of the fledgling Wild Geese hurling section, Aidan Lenihan says his new book – There Is An ‘F’ in Hurling – is one of the only GAA books to cover the “nitty-gritty of the grass roots of the vast majority of players” of the games.

Lenihan was central to introducing the small ball to the Oldtown club in 2008, a football stronghold which dates back all the way to 1888.

He and a few other like-minded individuals brought together football players from St Margaret’s, Fingal Ravens, Garristown, Starlights, Clann Mhuire, Bal-

lyboughal, Man O War and Colmcilles.

And the past four seasons have seen the team from north-west Fingal, playing primarily in the junior E championship, enjoy the highs of winning AHL9 but also endure their share of tough times to keep the show on the road.

All is documented in the book which was launched last week at GAA headquarters, an event which Lenihan was delighted with 250 people turned out with Liam O’Neill launching the book “There’s not too many junior hurling teams who get into Croke Park on merit,” he told GazetteSport.

The event acted as a reunion of sorts for the 86 players who have donned the Geese jersey in the past four years but Lenihan added that the economic situation of the country has impacted on the side.

“The reality is most of the time, we are still struggling. We’ve played about 160 matches and have never given a walkover but there’s been many games where we’ve just had the games required.

“We won the league in 2009. Ed Sweetman, one of the guys involved from the start, said this could be a poisoned chalice. It was wonderful to win it

but it did potentially make it harder as a lot of lads decided that it wasn’t going to get any better than that and stopped.

Such struggles make for a unique book in the sport’s literature “Other than club histories, there is a serious lack of literature about junior clubs. It charts Ireland, too. When we started, Ireland was sitting on top of the world and now a lot of our lads are struggling for work and to make ends meet.”

Proceeds from the book go to the club’s juvenile hurling section and it is available in Eason’s and on kennys.ie.

METEORS fell to DCU Mercy 66-58 in the women’s SuperLeague as the north Dublin club maintained their perfect start to the season despite 15 points from Beth Meany and 15 from Rebecca Nagle.

Despite the win, head coach Mark Ingle found plenty for his squad to improve upon as they prepare for an away match-up with Singleton SuperValu Brunell next weekend.

“We had a big height advantage but never used it fully. We were a bit undisciplined in that aspect because whenever we did get the ball inside we really hurt them. That said, it was a good win, it was in their home gym and they hit some incredible shots to keep it close.”

c o n ta c t s Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@gazettegroup.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6205

Gazette

28 CLONDALKIN gazette 22 November 2012

SPORT

FastSport O’Brien makes fourth round of PTC: FERGAL O’Brien proved an indirect beneficiary of Ronnie O’Sullivan’s sabbatical from the world snooker tour as the Lucan man received a walkover last week in the Player’s Tour Championship round four event in Gloucester.

The pair were due to meet in the third round of the competition but O’Sullivan’s decision to withdraw from the tour left the way open for O’Brien to advance.

He subsequently played out a cracking tie with Gerard Greene but ultimately fell 4-3 in round four.

It followed O’Brien’s recent run to the last 32 of the International Championship in which he overcame a qualifier against Mark King and then progressed through the wildcard round, beating Chen Feilong 6-3 before becoming undone by the red-hot form of Judd Trump.

soccer: lucan student nets injury-time penalty to snatch title

Leinster win back Interpros  sport@gazettegroup.com

LEINSTER snatched the FAI schoolgirl’s U-15 interprovincial title last week from Connacht in dramatic fashion in Athlone Town with St Finian’s CC’s Jamie Finn, St Joseph’s College, Lucan’s Eleanor Ryan Boyle and Niamh Farrelly, Lucan CC’s Danie Murray and Balbriggan CC’s Erica Byrne all playing their part.

Connacht had the slight advantage heading into the final game as the two sides were level on points with the western province just edging it on goal difference meaning Connacht needed just a draw to annex the title for the first time in their history.

And they looked on course for this until injury time when Leinster were awarded a penalty which Ryan Boyle confidently converted to see her team bask in the glory.

It improved the province’s record to seven wins in 14 years, their last victory coming in 2009 when they put a stop to Munster’s four in a row ambitions.

Connacht deserved something more from the game as they came close on a number of occasions. The team impressed throughout.

Their intensity and hunger for the game was evident through the 60 minutes of football with the standard of play from all four provinces

immense over the six game test Earlier in the competition, Leinster had beaten Ulster 2010 2-0 in their tournament opener as two well-worked second half goals proved the difference with Farrelly impressing.

They followed up with a 2-1 win over Munster in which Ryan Boyle went close early on as Jenny Nagle cleared the ball off the line in dramatic fashion to keep the stalemate.

Lauren O’Callaghan hit the crossbar moments later as Howard’s squad advanced.

But Leinster were not to be denied too much longer as Ryan Boyle smashed the ball to the roof of the net for a splendid goal.

St Finian’s CC’s Jamie Finn captained the Leinster side at the interpros

Munster went on to equalise following the restart but the blues responded, Murray going close with goalkeeper Christine Coffey but the net minder pulled off an exceptional save to deny the young Lucan student.

With only 15 minutes remaining the Leinster dynamo and captain Jamie Finn struck a fabulous ball from over 20 yards out to leave the keeper stranded. A wonderful finish for a promising star leaving

Leinster with the upper hand.

It sent the tournament to the wire with that penalty conversion from last year’s schools internationals Ryan Boyle insuring the riches to Leinster this year with a high end finale to the game.

Following the tournament, newly appointed schools international manager Richelle O’Neill will be charged with putting together a provisional squad ahead of the Bob Docherty Cup

which will take place on April 1 to 4, 2013 in Northern Ireland.

O’Neill will be accompanied by Lorraine Counihan (Colaiste Mhuire, Buttevant) who has been drafted in as assistant manager this season. Jason Carey (St. Mac Dara’s Community College, Templeogue) has been appointed coach for the upcoming campaign.

Carey was part of the management set up for the last two years alongside O’Neill.

Balbriggan’s Nulty receives top LCU honour  sport@gazettegroup.com

Cian Nulty, left, receives advice from Max Sorenson

BALBRIGGAN’S Cian Nulty was selected by Ireland international fast bowler Max Sorensen as this year’s winner of Leinster cricket’s Find A Fast Bowler competition.

Sorenson, who recently returned from the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, selected Nulty after attending several under-age provincial sessions paying particular attention to the most promising quick bowlers.

Speaking about the award,

he said: “Cian is a worthy winner of the Leinster Cricket Union’s ‘Find a Fast Bowler’ talent identification pro gramme for this season.

“He possesses a fine bowling action and generates good pace for a 12-year-old. We worked on a few small technical areas including his grip and release position that should see him improve even further in the coming year.

“What particularly impressed me was the late swing he gets and his ability to bowl a very useful yorker. I

look forward to following his progress at Balbriggan over the coming years”.

Nulty started playing with the Fingal club at the age of six and comes from a strong cricketing family with his grandfather playing the game for nearly 60 years.

He has gone on to play for North Leinster U-11s for the past three years and also represented Leinster on tour in Wales against Eryi District.

His best bowling came against YMCA with a spell of 5-12 from four overs while he

also likes to play hurling and Gaelic football with O’Dwyer’s and rugby with Balbriggan.

Nulty cites hard-hitting Kevin O’Brien as his favourite current Irish player while Australian one-day master Shane Watson is among his idols from around the world, both shot-making all-rounders.

He follows in the footsteps of the likes of North County’s Andrew Sheridan, Clontarf’s David Delany, Phoenix’s Rory Anders and Pembroke’s Josh Little as recipients of this award.

22 November 2012 CLONDALKIN gazette 29

Gazette

Gavin outlines secret ingredients to success New manager believes the ethos he witnessed over a lengthy association with An Garda can be a key tenet in his role with the Dublin senior footballers in 2013 THE watchwords of “respect, self-sacrifice, commitment, perseverance and hard work” abounded from Jim Gavin, the newly installed Dublin senior football manager, ethics he witnessed during his time with the Garda GAA club will be pivotal to his new role.

He was speaking at the launch of the most ambitious fundraiser the Westmanstown Gaels and Garda GAA clubs have run in tandem. They are endeavouring to sell upwards of 800 tickets to their Who Wants To Be A Thousandaire? event that will take place on Saturday, December 8, aiming to pack out the Acorn Suite at Westmanstown.

 stephen findlater sport@gazettegroup.com

Gavin, a former manager and coach with Garda’s intermediate side for three years, was on hand at the launch and espoused the virtues of the club that has been a second home after his native Round Tower, a place which helped him cut his teeth with adult players.

It remains his sole club management job in tandem with a glittering career with the Dublin U-21s, winning the All-

Ireland in 2003 as well as 2010 and 2012 off the back of which he became the standout candidate for the county’s top job.

Fond memories of his links to the Westmanstown outfit remain: “I worked in the Garda air support unit a number of years back so I would have known quite a number of the guards, especially playing against them with the Defence Forces.

“Jim Murphy asked me would I coach and manage their team and it was a privilege to do it. We did well with intermediate sides and I learned an awful lot working with those guys,” he told GazetteSport.

“For me, the attraction

Jim Gavin speaking in Westmanstown last week. Picture: confettismiles.ie

was the values and the culture of the club, something that Westmanstown Gaels are now associated with. It’s something I’ve always believed in, something I’ve preached to the players at U-21 level – selfsacrifice, commitment, respect, perseverance and

a lot of talent outside it.

Over the next couple of months, we’ll be patrolling the county looking for players and hopefully in the New Year, in the O’Byrne Cup, National League and championship, we’ll get consistent performances and then

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

‘Self-sacrifice, commitment, respect, perseverance and hard work. These are things I’ve always believed in’ - Jim Gavin

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

hard work.”

Since then, he has been a key observer of the development of the club, attending the opening of their all-weather facility in 2008 and noting the maiden girl’s Feile football success in 2011.

And he believes that if the club’s young charges can focus on the basics, placing an emphasis on becoming “balanced” players, there is little in the way of forging their way into more honours in the future.

The ethos is one he is very keen to imbue in the county’s senior footballers when collective training gets under way in the second week of December, “Taking on the Dublin task is an onerous one but one I look forward to and I relish.

“There is lots of talent in the current squad and

the results will follow.

“Most of the time is spent scouting at the moment. We’ve been out at the senior and intermediate club championships and also the U-21s and minors. We’ve a network of scouts profiling players, trying to identify talent and it is out there in abundance and then we try and distil the numbers down.”

To this end, he has also sought advice from predecessor Pat Gilroy, who led the sky-blues to the 2011 All-Ireland: “Pat was there for four years so I’ve spoken to him on his views about the players.

“But it is a clean slate and any new management team that comes in has fresh ideas. There’s been a hell of a lot of good work done over the past few years and, for me, it’s building on that.”

FastSport

Irish cycling show set for Citywest in March THE second Irish cycling show will take place on March 9 and 10, 2013 at the Citywest Exhibition venue, Dublin.

The inaugural show in May 2012 attracted 4,000 visitors in a very successful two days with over 90 companies exhibiting at the event.

New for 2013 will be free car parking, lower entrance prices and Sprocket Rocket for kids with a host of new exhibitors showcasing their cycling products.

Animal Bike Tour will be the star Stunt Show attraction for 2013 while freestyle BMX rider Keelan Philips will again demonstrate his skills.

The cycle test track will be featuring again for 2013. Other special guests will be announced over the coming months.

Speaking about the event, Hugh Bonner of organisers Mara Media said: “We are so happy to be involved in running the cycling exhibition again in Dublin at a time when cycling of all sorts is booming and we look forward to working with the cycling industry and public as we build on the success of the first show.”

Lucan and DSD enjoy fine runs THREE Lucan Harriers athletes took part in the BHAA/Bank of Ireland 5.5km race on Dollymount Beach last week.

Representing the women was Bernie Stapleton, who was home in an excellent time of 28.47.

For the men we had Gerry Martin coming in first in 26.31 followed by Jim Dwyer in 32.11 For the juveniles, Ciaran Cooney ran in the U-13 Dublin crosscountry 2.5km in

Marlay Park finishing in a brilliant fifth position and also qualified to run on the Dublin team as a result.

At U-19 level, Dundrum South Dublin claimed the team event with Killian Mooney finishing first with Rick Nally third and Andrew Cullen in fifth place.

On the girls’ side, Siofra Cleirigh-Buttner led home DSD in the U-19 competition with club members finishing in each of the first four positions as well as sixth place on their home turf to claim the team title in style.

Gazette

30 CLONDALKIN gazette 22 November 2012

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: lucan united storm to big verona victory

Egan honoured with fourth Garda Sport Star award LUCAN canoeist Peter Egan won his fourth Garda Sport Star award, sponsored by Coiste Siamsa, for his performances during the 2012 season.

The awards were presented by the Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan, pictured above with Egan, at the Garda Awards ceremone which took place at Westmanstown Sports and Conference Centre last Friday.

Egan had an outstanding year both nationally and internationally. In June, he finished 10th at the International World Cup marathon race in Copenhagen in the K2 doubles class together with Neil Fleming of Celbridge Paddlers Canoe Club.

The national marathon championships, which were once again held at Salmon Leap Canoe Club, Leixlip in July saw him team up again with Fleming to win the K2 doubles championship. In the K1 singles class he finished second.

The world marathon championships were held in Rome on September 21 to 23.

With over 40 countries competing at the championships and the best marathon racers in the world participating, it was going to be a really tough race.

Egan was entered in the Senior K1 event over a 31km, seven lap course. There were 42 competitors at the start-line which included no fewer than four previous world medal winners.

Egan was in the top 20 for the first six laps and put in a strong final lap to eventually finished 17th - 54 seconds off a top 10 finish.

One week later, Egan teamed up with Jon Simmons to compete in the senior K2 class in the international Liffey Descent.

However, they had a pretty eventful race as they had a collision with a British crew just below Straffan Weir and capsized losing almost six minutes on the leaders.

After a tremendous effort, they failed to make up the time to catch the winners falling by a mere 55 seconds to finish third.

“I was pretty happy with my overall season and I want to thank Neil Fleming, Jon Simmons and Maciej Majchrzak for their part in helping me to win the Garda Sport Star award for 2012,” Egan said.

Lucan United up to defend a rare moment of danger from Verona last Saturday in LSL Saturday Major 1B

United’s super seven LSL Saturday major 1b Lucan United Verona  carl duffy

7 0

sport@gazettegroup.com

KEITH Doherty’s clinical finishing proved vital as Lucan United put seven past Verona at Airlie Heights last Saturday afternoon.

The home side dominated the first half with winger David Clarke causing immediate concern for the visitors as they failed to contain his pace and stamina.

Clarke was involved in the opening goal as he did well in a series

of one-two passes with midfield dynamo Conor Walsh, which allowed Alan Kavanagh to link up with his strike partner Doherty who, in turn, did brilliantly to pass his marker and drill in a powerful shot past Verona keeper Ryan Deegan.

The Blanch side defended strongly in the opening 20 minutes but they struggled to keep possession in a high tempo first half.

This was ultimately their downfall as they conceded three more before half-time.

Two fine individual

Top class tower’s Minor hurlers progress to championship semis round Tower’s minor hurlers made it

through to the semi-finals of the C championship as they put in a storming performance at the community centre last Sunday morning to beat Castleknock.

They built a 2-10 to 0-1 lead at half-time and while the vistors improved in the second period, they had no way to counter the Clondalkin club who won out in the end by 3-11 to 1-4.

strikes from Doherty to complete his hat trick and an own goal from Alan Jordan following a cross from Kavanagh to compound the misery for the visitors.

Following a rousing half time team talk from their manager, the Blanchardstown side started the second half the stronger and were unlucky not have pulled one back shortly after the restart.

Winger Mark Curtis did well to find Jamie Turner whose curling shot f lew past goalkeeper Jamie Behan but struck the wrong side of

the post.

Verona, playing much higher up the pitch in an attempt to claw their way back into the game, were playing some great football with Turner and Alan Jordan leading the charge but were unable to convert any chances into goals for their side.

As a result, though, their attacking formation left them exposed at the back and the game was put beyond them as United scored three more with Doherty grabbing his fourth.

A rare goal for Stephen Hannon two minutes later sparked

wild celebrations with his Lucan United teammates.

Walsh scored the final goal of the match 10 minutes from time to cap a fine performance all round from him and his team.

Lucan United manager Gerard Barry will no doubt be delighted with how his team played as they dominated the game particularly in the first half and were ruthless in front of goal.

United will be looking to use this result as a springboard for their season and move up the table.

22 November 2012 CLONDALKIN gazette 31

Gazette

Twelfth Lock toasts dual U-16 titles Club Noticeboard  sport@gazettegroup.com

LUCAN Sarsfields’ U-16 boys second football team ended an eight-year wait for silverware last week as they got the better of Clontarf, taking the laurels in a newly created league just for second teams.

Indeed, it was the first time in the club’s history that both their U-16 teams

had won their respective leagues, a testament to the work done by manager John Condon and coaches and mentors Kieran Kilbane, Gavin Carabini, Colette Condon, Glen Maguire and Dara Keher.

They initially negotiated a league phase against Kilmacud Crokes, Ballyboden St Enda’s, Scoil Ui Chonaill, Na Fianna and

Ballinteer St John’s, ending the regular season in top spot, setting up final date with Clontarf.

It was the third meeting of the sides, the first two going the Lucan lads’ way, and they battled to a crucial third win.

Danny Rahilly settled some early nerves with the first goal and his side remained ahead courtesy

of some terrific saves from William Swaine while Karl Duncan and Conor Donaghy were among the other scorers.

And, after a nervy second half, Lucan finally pulled clear in the closing 10 minutes as two goals from Darragh Twomey and Donaghy put Lucan seven points up and secured the title.

football: clondalkin club into afl2 final

round tower, clondalkin MANY thanks to everyone, especially

This week’s lotto numbers were 3, 10,

our dancers and the Elaine Kavanagh

13 and 29. The bonus ball was 9. There

School of Irish Dancing, for a great

was no winner of this week’s jackpot

night at Jigs and Reels last Friday.

of €9,800.

The senior footballers defeat-

Congratulations to Christina Smith,

ed Skerries Harps last Sunday to

Robert Roche and Tony and Sarahann

advance to the playoff finals against

who were the three €100 winners.

Raheny next Sunday at 11am in the

Next week’s jackpot is €9,900.

Community Centre.

rental for parties, anniversaries, etc.

emphatic win over Castleknock to

Please contact Jimmy behind the bar

advance to the championship semi

or on 01 4592960.

final in two week’s time.

The U-21 footballers face Thomas Davis in Kiltipper Road on Thursday

One hour once every seven weeks is all it takes. If you are able to help

Sunday morning. All support wel-

please contact Matt McCormack on

Our very own Shauna Curran has

the evening of Saturday, December

set up a new online Irish gift store –

1 at 5pm.

www.totallyirishgifts.com http://

tled to attend this meeting and only

Round Tower Skerries Harps  sport@gazettegroup.com

1-9 1-6

ROUND Tower moved within a game of a return to the top tier of Dublin league football as they showed great character in the face of a monster Skerries Harps second half comeback last Sunday at the community centre.

A blistering second quarter appeared to set them up nicely at halftime as Jason Joyce’s thumping goal pushed them 1-5 to 0-1 up.

But the later arriving

Harry Dawson inspired a stunning comeback that levelled matters within 12 minutes of the break and all the momentum was going their way.

But Cathal Carty found his range and Niall Lanigan also chipped in down the closing stretch to pick off the win.

Both sides struggled in the early phases with Skerries enjoying plenty of ball but could only grab one point for their efforts as Eoghan Young and Jamie McCarthy put in big blocks.

When the pendulum swung Tower’s way, they

were more aggressive with Lanigan, on debut, laying up Carty and the Mayo man slipped his man to point from 21m.

Two points followed before Simon McGuinness, who was bossing midfield during this period and, off good clean ball, played a pivotal role in Joyce’s goal in the 23rd minute.

To m L y o n s a n d Derek Murray were also involved as McGuinness stormed forward and popped it to Joyce who blasted home.

It looked a formidable lead in mucky conditions but Dawson along

with Graham Cullen’s introduction saw Skerries bounce back.

Colin Daly’s low drive was saved brilliantly by Dean Alford but was horribly deflected to the back of the net off Conor McGrath and Dawson levelled moments later.

Tower’s regrouped and it was Carty who provided the inspiration, feeding Ian Ward who pointed from longrange.

Lyons kicked a 40m free, sandwiched by two more Carty frees, negating the impact of Dawson’s fourth point and sending the Clondalkin

0876836737 or email info@roundtower.ie mailto:info@roundtower.ie.

will take place in the clubrooms on

Only paid up members are enti-

AFL2 playoff

Night seller.

face St Anne’s in Bohernabreena on

The AGM of Round Tower GAA club

Carty inspires Round Tower playoff victory

Pick your Lotto Team Leader and help them become the Top Friday

evening while the Minor footballers

come.

Round Tower’s Cathal Carty was one of the key men for the Clondalkin club in their win over Skerries Harps

The clubrooms are available for

The minor hurlers recorded an

www.totallyirishgifts.com - selling only products made in Ireland.

A members are eligible to vote. Any

Shauna is now offering Round Tower

membership status related queries

GAA club members 15% discount off

should be directed to the secretary

all crafted candles via the website.

at the earliest opportunity.

Check out the range of crafted can-

Nominations for executive posi-

dles - http://www.totallyirishgifts.

tions or motions for discussion on the

com/irish-crafted-candles-s/1991.

evening should be with the secretary

htm

and addressed solely to the secre-

The gifts include a fabulous Round

tary seven days before the meeting.

Tower candle which could make an

They can also be left at the box pro-

excellent Christmas present for Tow-

vided at the club bar.

ers members and supporter.

st pat’s palmerstown GOOD luck to St Lorcan’s in Croke

25 and 5; there was no winner. Second

Park on Monday, November 26 when

draw numbers were 13, 24, 26 and 2;

they take on Scoil Mobhi of Glasnevin,

there was no winner.

throw-in is at 10.30am.

Congratulations to Paul and AnnMarie Heffernan following their marriage last week.

Lotto: first draw numbers were 9, 21,

Any 3 numbers: Niamh Burns and Lucy O’Brien.

The next draw is on Sunday, November 25: first draw jackpot is €10,000, the second draw jackpot is €4,200.

lucan sarsfields WE WELCOME our new executive

mentors and are available from the

committee as ratified at our AGM

bar. Tickets cost €5. Top prize is

last Thursday. Chairperson - Pat

€2,000.

O’Keefe, vice chairperson - Frank

Well done to our U-16A camogie

Fleming, secretary - Alice Whyte,

team on winning their division one

treasurer- Eamonm Cuggy, PRO -

final against Ballyboden.

Liam Mulhall, assistant secretary

The club is currently undertaking a

- Fintan Clandillon, assistant treas-

review of the clubhouse bar in light

urer - Julie Balfe, registrar - Brian

of significant reduced turnover in

Mahon, children’s officer - Lisa Tuite,

recent years.

players representative - Brendan

We invite all adult members (over 18)

Gallagher, Oifigeach Gaeilge - TBA,

to input to this review and give your

floor members – Cro Dooley, Ciaran

views by taking part in a survey. The

Dunne and John Condon.

survey can be completed by going to

Tickets for our Christmas draw have now been distributed to all

our website www.lucansarsfields.ie. or by filling out the form at the bar.

GazetteSPORT all of your CLONDALKIN sports coverage from page 27-31

gentleman jim: New Dublin manager speaks to GazetteSport about his Garda GAA connections P29

NOVEMBER 22, 2012

there is an ‘f’ in hurling: Packed house for the launch of new Wild Geese book P29

Tower’s through to AFL2 final playoff  peter carroll

sport@gazettegroup.com

ROUND Tower’s boss Caimin Keane has taken a wealth of positives from last Sunday’s playoff semi-final against Skerries Harps, with Tower’s winning 1-9 to 1-6, saying the tie was the perfect preparation for the intensity of an AFL2 playoff final.

They meet Ciaran Whelan’s Raheny on Sunday at 11am on home turf hoping to repeat a league earlier in 2012.

Having built up a big lead at half time 1-5 to 0-1, Skerries rallied after the break and got level but the Clondalkin side showed great

heart to push on and get the result in the final 10 minutes.

“It was a fantastic preparation,” said Keane. “There was championship intensity from the first minute and we really needed that type of game after having a bit of a break.

“We were disappointed to let Harps back in after the interval, but all credit to Skerries, they played fantastically well. On a positive note for our side, the lads’ fitness seemed to be fantastic, finding that extra push in the last 10 minutes.

“The push in the final minutes of the game is something we’ve spent a lot of time on and I think it could be a big factor in the league final

against Raheny,” said Keane.

Keane went on to stress how the two sides were so evenly matched.

“We aren’t spending a lot of time thinking about how Raheny will play; we like to focus on our own game, but I certainly don’t think we’ll have a big lead at any stage in the early goings – it will be nip and tuck from the start.

“I really believe the game will be tight throughout and the last 10 minutes will decide it. We have already beaten Raheny in the summer but they have taken a victory over us in the AIB cup this year. It’s going to be a cracking game,” said the Clondalkin coach.

Keane also pointed out that get-

ting into the county’s top flight would be an excellent advancement for the club, to continue on from the fantastic Monastery Road development this year.

“It’s a huge game for the club.

If we’re in top flight it provides a great platform for our lads to thrive.

Monastery Road was a huge boost and if we get up and start having the more glamorous sides coming up here it would be fantastic for the club and the wider community.

“We already get fantastic crowds out to watch our games and if the younger kids saw us playing senior football it would spur them on in their training and their development too.”

Round Tower’ s Jamie McCarthy put in a huge performance against Skerries