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INSIDE: As the election nears, politicians talk to The
Gazette about the housing and homelessness crisis P6
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Appeal for help as remains identified ian begley Gardai have identified the man whose dismembered remains we r e f o u n d i n t h e Grand Canal, Celbridge and have issued a further appeal for anyone with information to come forward. Kenneth O’Brien, aged 33, is said to have left his home on Lealand Road, Clondalkin in the early hours of Friday, January 15. It is understood he told his family that he was
Canal victim has been named as Kenneth O’Brien, father of one working down the country for the day. At a briefing at Leixlip Garda Station on Tuesday, Superintendent Gerald Ward described O’Brien as a father of one who had worked as
a JCB driver and recently returned from Australia. His dismembered remains were discovered on the afternoon of Saturday, January 16 in a suitcase that had been dumped in the canal,
The remains of the late Kenneth O’Brien were found in the Grand Canal, Celbridge
close to the village of Ardclough, Celbridge. Investigating gardai are asking anyone who was near the canal last Friday or Saturday to come forward with information. Superintendent Wall
also issued an appeal for people who returned to their property or work premises after the weekend break to check for anything unusual. This could include small changes to a room, or
equipment that might have been moved. A ny o n e w i t h a ny information is asked to contact the incident room in Leixlip Garda S t a t i o n o n 01- 6 6 6 7800.
2 CLONDALKIN Gazette 21 January 2016
traffic | permanently-signed diversions planned don’s dublin A church blessed with the nickname The Pepper Canister
Emergency plan for M50 is underway
Ian Begley
Nicknames are something that Dubliners are good at handing out, usually to friends and acquaintances, but it is rare that buildings
Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has commenced the preparation of an emergency plan for the M50, which comes as welcome news for those living in Dublin Mid-West who use the motorway frequently. The announcement was made at the January monthly meeting of the council where a motion on emergency response management on the M50 was proposed by Fine Gael councillors. The planned measures of the emergency plan include the establishment of an interagency incident coordination group and the provision of permanently-signed diversions in the event of a closure of the M50. Regular commuters, familiar with the frequent delays at peak times on the M50 as a result of major incidents, will be expected to see the motorway running more smoothly during rush hour as well as during emergencies.
are so honoured. So, I was really looking forward to visiting St Stephen’s Church, a place that I had passed many times but never entered and, like most people, called The Pepper Canister. By the early 1800s, with the city spreading out into new suburbs, there was a need for a church to serve the growing community beyond Merrion Square. The Earl of Pembroke, a significant local landowner, gave the site for the church for free and an additional £700. It was one of the last Georgian churches built in Dublin and was designed by John Bowden who also responsible for the church of St Philip and St James, Booterstown. Sadly, he died during construction and the work was completed by Joseph Welland. It was consecrated by the Archbishop of Dublin, William Magee on December 5, 1824, and the final cost was £5,169. The original building was rectangular and the colourful apse (east end) was added in 1852. But it is the front (west end) that is the most attractive and giving an unbroken view across Merrion Square southside, to Leinster House. It is a beautifully realised feature, unchanged in almost two centuries. The cupola at the top of the church is a model of the Choregos of Lysicrates in Athens and where we get the familiar nickname. Inside, there are wonderful stained glass
“TII have commenced the preparation of an emergency plan for the M50.”
Speaking about the motion, Cllr William Lavelle (FG) expressed condolences to the families and loved ones of people
who died in incidents on the M50. “It is accepted that every serious incident on the M50 will continue to require a sensitive response, in particular where emergency medical treatment is needed or the incident scene requires forensic examination. “However, we must try to mitigate the current situation where a single incident on the M50 can lead to region-wide gridlock. “I hope these measures will lead to better emergency response management on the M50,” he said. In response to the motion, council managers reported that: “TII have commenced the preparation of an emergency plan for the M50. “The council’s traffic
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‘I hope these measures will lead to better emergency response management on the M50’
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Cllr William Lavelle (FG)
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windows which were not original features but added in Victorian times. A piece by the renowned Beatrice Elvery and another in honour of Dr Joliffe Tufnell, a former president of the College of Surgeons, look great in the sunlight. The organ dates from the 1750s and the carved rosewood pulpit is particularly attractive. Upstairs I noted a plaque in honour of Captain Charles King, a man who survived the Battle of Balaclava. I definitely hadn’t been expecting that. Wonderful.
department have recently been contacted by TII regarding the establishment of an interagency incident coordination group to manage road traffic incidents and accidents on the M50 network. “The purpose of this group is to ensure a coordinated approach to the management of major incidents that occur on the M50 by the various agencies involved. “A representative from the council’s traffic section will participate in this group.
“TII are also in the process of finalising arrangements for permanently-signed diversions in the event of a closure of the M50, and it is expected this group will hold a desktop exercise in January.” TII’s mission is to deliver transport infrastructure and services, which contribute to the quality of life for the people of Ireland and support the country’s economic growth. For more information about their current projects, visit www.tii.ie.
Don Cameron
www.donsdublin.wordpress.com
St Stephen’s Church, otherwise known as The Pepper Canister, was designed by John Bowden and consecrated on December 5, 1824
21 January 2016 CLONDALKIN Gazette 3
appeal | Knockmitten United request astro-turf pitch
Sport pitch proposed for derelict site Ian Begley
Knockmitten United FC are appealing for the council to secure funding for an astro-turf pitch on a derelict basketball court beside Knockmitten Community Centre. Their request has been met with support from local residents and all eight Clondalkin councillors have agreed to table a motion in favour of this project at the next Clondalkin area committee meeting. Tony Kennedy, member of Knockmitten Unit-
ed, told The Gazette: “We urge senior management in both environment and community services to do everything in their power to ensure that the land ownership issue is resolved and planning permission is in place in advance of the next round of sports capital funding. “The estimated cost for this project is in the region of €200,000 €220,000. This would be a joint venture with the council, with the club taking control of the running and upkeep of the
facility. The bulk of the funding would hopefully come from the sports capital grant. “The one big stumbling block is that the council does not own the land as it is with the Office of Public Works. We have requested a Part 8 or a compulsory purchase order to be placed on this derelict land so it can be put to good use and not an attraction for antisocial behaviour,” said Kennedy. Cllr Eoin O Broin (SF), one of the councillors supporting this project,
The unused former basketball court is “badly maintained, unsafe and an eyesore”.
said: “The club provides a huge resource to the local community involving hundreds of young people in boys and girls teams every week. “The land in question is an unused former basketball court. It is badly maintained and is both unsafe and an eyesore.
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“However, with the spor ts capital grant application process due to open soon, the land in question remains unresolved. If this matter is not addressed, Knockmitten will miss the opportunity for funding for another year.” A council spokesper-
son said that the council is currently working with the chief state solicitors office who are actively proceeding to acquire the open space lands at Knockmitten by deed of waiver, subject to the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.
parade
Appeal for public support The Clondalkin St Patrick’s Day parade committee is appealing for more people in the community to take part in this year’s event. The theme for the festival is 1916 and festival organisers are hoping that many people will participate and come out on the day to make it a memorable event. Parade organiser Cllr Francis Timmons (Ind) says the parade has the potential to be a great family day out, but will need the support of volunteers and community groups. He said: “We need more floats and people to take part, dress up and add colour to the parade.” For information about the parade and how to get involved, visit www. clondalkinstpatricksfestival.ie/participate.
4 CLONDALKIN Gazette 21 January 2016
meeting
Motorcross bikes ‘causing a nuisance’ Ian Begley A public meeting was held last week at the Bawnogue Community Centre in relation to the ongoing issue of scramblers and motocross bikes in both Clondalkin and Ballyfermot. The issue was brought into perspective around the community following the death of a 16-year-old boy from Ballyfermot who died on Christmas morning after his scrambler collided with another motorbike. Cllr Gino Kenny (PBP) who organised the meeting said: “Many young people have these bikes which are causing a nuisance in housing estates. They are not only putting their own safety at risk but others too. Hopefully this can be the start of something more positive and prevent tragedies such as the one on Christmas Day.” In attendance at the meeting were: Brian Harte from the Dublin City Motocross Club, Karl Brady from Derryakin Motocross, Ballyfermot councillor Brid Smith (PBP) and a number of community workers from the locality. Cllr Kenny added: “The meeting was very informative. Cllr Brid Smith from Ballyfermot explained that the council have set up a sub group of the parks department to explore the idea of a designated safe space for motocross bikes. “After the terrible tragedy in Ballyfermot on Christmas Day and the ongoing issue of scramblers in built up areas we need lateral thinking on the issue of scramblers. I’ve been to countless meetings over the past seven years and the issue of scramblers/motocross bikes simply isn’t going away,” he said.
anniversary | ‘we’re grabbing the world’s attention’
Celebration mass for Pieta House supporters Ian Begley Pieta House recently celebrated its 10th anniversary by hosting a special celebration mass for the people who have supported the charity throughout the past decade. The self-harm and suicide prevention centre first opened its doors in Lucan in 2006, and has since established centres in Tallaght, Ballyfermot, Finglas and five fur ther centres around the country. In 2003, founder and former CEO, Joan Freeman, a practising psychologist, closed down her own counselling business and dedicated her time to finding out how she could help people who were suicidal. After three years of research, she opened up Pieta House in Lucan, which quickly became
a respected and recognised service for those who were suicidal. From humble beginnings, Pieta House has grown to almost 180 therapists and administration staff, and the demand for the service hasn’t faltered. In 2015 alone, in excess of 5,000 people came through its doors suffering from suicidal ideation or engaging in self-harm. Speaking to The Gazette this week, Freeman said: “Ten years ago suicide wasn’t really acknowledged under any shape or form and it was such a taboo subject. “We started off with just a pool of volunteers from the community who have helped us enormously. The donations we also received throughout the years has also been really extraordinary.
“There was a point where we needed to have an overdraft facili t y a n d we we r e n ’t allowed to have one unless we had a guarantor. Thankfully, five businesses from the community deposited €10,000 each of their own money into the bank as guarantor for Pieta House. “I didn’t even ask permission if I could open Pieta House in Lucan. Really, it was a wrong thing of me to do because we run from a house that’s part of a housing estate. You could imagine how people could have reacted, but we were really well received in the community from the start. “A r c h b i s h o p Diarmuid Martin has very kindly agreed to celebrate our anniversary mass. He also played a very important part in
Archbishop Diarmuid Martin and Joan Freeman at the mass. Picture: Jolanta Rossiter
See full gallery next week
Pieta House’s growth, along with all of the other local churches.” Freeman added that she believes Pieta House has prospered over the years due to “handing the charity over to the people of Ireland”. “I think ever yone thinks Pieta House is their
own. We have no hidden agenda and we provide training for organisations free of charge, all so we can reduce suicide in this country. “The Darkness into Light 5km event is now becoming global. 130 thousand people walked across Ireland
last year and this year it’s going to take place in San Francisco, along with New York, Chicago, Colorado springs, and Pennsylvania. “It’s just getting bigger and bigger and we’re grabbing the world’s attention one step at a time.”
Dublin Mid-West families waiting longer for crucial services
Ian Begley
Families from Lucan and Clondalkin with special needs children are left waiting years for crucial services, according to Cllr Eoin O Broin (SF). Figures released in a parliamentary questions response from the HSE to a question tabled by Mary Lou McDonald (SF) have revealed that the numbers of families affected and the waiting times are longer in Dublin Mid-West than in neighbouring Dublin South
West, Kildare West/Wicklow and Dublin South Central. At Rosse Court Resource Centre, Lucan, there are currently 51 children waiting to access the early bird programme; 203 children waiting for speech and language therapy; 231 children waiting for occupational therapy and 173 children waiting for psychological support. At the Beechpark Service, Tallaght, there are currently 50 children waiting to access the early bird programme; and 37
pre-school age children and 72 school age children waiting to access speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and psychology. According to the HSE, the length of time children can be waiting to access these programmes range from up to 18 months for the early bird programme, up to 23 months for speech and language therapy, up to 24 months for occupational therapy and up to 18 months for psychology support. Cllr O Broin described this
revelation as “shocking”. He said: “Across the country waiting times are unacceptably high. However, from information received from the HSE it appears that the problem in Dublin Mid-West is particularly acute. “The length of time these children are left waiting before they can access these crucial supports can range from up to 18 months for the early bird programme, up to 23 months for speech and language therapy, up to 24 months for occu-
pational therapy and up to 18 months for psychology support. When compared with neighbouring HSE areas the number of children on the waiting lists in Dublin Mid-West is higher and the average length of time they are waiting for these crucial services is significantly longer. “The problem is that Rosses Court Resource Centre, as with all such service providers, simply do not have the staff resources to meet the need in the local community,” he said.
21 January 2016 CLONDALKIN Gazette 5
6 CLONDALKIN Gazette 21 January 2016
R1
ask the politician | in the build up to the general election the gazette Question: How would you deal with the current housing crisis in the city if elected?
Cllr Eoin O Broin (SF)
Every child should be entitled to a home Cllr Francis Timmons (Ind)
I will continue my commitment to Clondalkin Helping Homeless, the group I set up to cater for homeless that goes out with volunteers on a nightly basis to feed those in need. It also works with those facing homelessness and the many families in need. I worked in homeless services for many years and this issue has been neglected by successive governments over many years and this has led to the national crisis we are now in. The lack of social housing being built along with the growing homeless list is not sustainable, the cost of hotels being used for homeless is not sustainable. This is one of the worst legacies of the current government. I believe that the current government’s 10% for social housing is simply not enough and would campaign for a rise to 20% in all new housing estates. I am also calling and will campaign for
Sinn Fein would reverse failed policy
1. a public and private partnership to build houses on a large scale. 2. The release of housing from Nama on a large scale. 3. An emergency hostel in Dublin MidWest. 4. A woman’s refuge in Dublin Mid-West. I don’t believe modular housing provides a proper long-term solution or good value for money and the taxpayer, the money would be better spent buying local housing stock. I also believe that it should be in our constitution that every child is entitled to a home.
Tackling the homeless crisis requires three urgent interventions. The first is to stop the flow of families into the homeless system by legislating for rent certainty, linking rents to inflation. At the same time we need to bring rent supplement and housing assistance payments into line with market rents. The second is to significantly increase the funding to councils to buy and build council housing. There are thousands of suitable vacant units available on the private market and via NAMA. Sinn Fein is committed to increasing the social housing stock by 100,000 to meet the existing need. For Sinn Fein, social housing means council or voluntary housing body homes, not private landlords subsidised by the state. To meet this target, Government must provide councils and housing associations with the funds to significantly increase the housing stock. This will also help stabilise rents in the private market for those in work or college who want to rent. The third is to increase the supply of
Crisis requires long and short-term measures John Curran (FF)
Got a story? Call our news team on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 2 email news@dublingazette.com
The housing crisis in our city requires a series of long-term and immediate shortterm measures. For the long-term, Government must urgently start a local authority house building programme to be accompanied with the construction of affordable homes. In the short-term however, the first priority is keeping people in their homes. People especially at risk are those in mortgage arrears, people in receipt of rent supplement and the tenants of landlords who’s buy to let properties are in mortgage arrears. More than 15% of mortgages for family
homes in Ireland are now in arrears. The Government did introduce a mortgage to rent scheme with a view to keeping people in their own homes. However in 2015, less than 30 people in Dublin were successful in getting on the scheme despite 660 people applying for it. The bank veto on restructuring and the bureaucracy of the scheme needs to be amended. Rent supplement in many parts of Dublin has now fallen significantly behind actual market rents and needs to be increased to ensure existing tenants keep their accommodation. When a bank places a buy to let property into receivership where an owner has fallen into arrears it is common for the receiver to clear the property of tenants before it is put on the market for sale. Some of the properties in question would contain multi units of accommodation. From the appointment of the receiver until
suitable emergency accommodation and to ensure that no family stays in emergency accommodation for more than six months. Emergency accommodation needs to be provided outside Dublin city centre and to be more family friendly. The current homeless crisis was created by Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and Labour. They have starved councils of funding while increased the subsidies to private landlords. Sinn Fein in Government would reverse this failed policy and buy and build the homes that people need. Sinn Fein has launched a detailed and fully costed policy to tackle the housing and homeless crisis. The document deals with social housing, affordable housing, homelessness and better regulations for the private to purchase sector. We have identified the source of funding required and set out annual plans to meet our targets.
a property is sold, refurbished and let again can take years. A review of these properties should be undertaken and steps put in place to ensure these properties are only vacant for the shortest possible period. I believe that while our house building programme gets under way, a temporary suspension of the recently introduced guidelines around bed sits should be allowed. This is estimated to add a few thousand units of accommodation to the Dublin housing stock almost immediately.
21 January 2016 CLONDALKIN Gazette 7
relaunches its q&a with election candidates on the topics that matter
Increase housing supply and tackle homelessness
A multifaceted approach is required
Minister Frances Fitzgerald
One of the worst legacies of the economic crisis is the shortage of social housing and high market rents. Years of underinvestment in social housing by the previous government led to an accommodation crisis, particularly in urban areas. What is required to tackle homelessness is a multifaceted approach that involves building more social housing, encouraging the building of private housing and offering more security to existing tenants. Despite the economic crisis, Labour in Government has worked hard to commit to a €3.8bn Social Housing Strategy up to 2020. This is the largest ever state investment in social housing and the first comprehensive social housing strategy for decades. Funding for emergency accommodation of homeless people was increased to €70m in 2016 – up 56% since 2014 – and will help homeless families transition to long-term sustainable housing. The 2015-2016 Cold Weather Action Plan introduced 175 additional beds in place on an emergency basis throughout the winter period. There are a number of social and voluntary housing projects planned for Dublin MidWest in Clondalkin and Lucan. In addition,
It is just over eight years since Ireland was witnessing a construction boom. Up to 90,000 new homes were being built in an unsustainable boom fuelled by reckless policies from the last Fianna Fail-led government. As we now know it all went horribly wrong. We went from boom to bust and we are still feeling the effects. Ireland’s construction sector was decimated and it is taking a long time to rebuild. The collapse in the supply of new homes has resulted in more demand for rental accommodation. Between the shortage of accommodation options and increases in rents, too many individuals and families have found themselves homeless. Homelessness is the real-life consequence of boom-and-bust economics. Homelessness is a human tragedy. As local TD and Minister, I am determined to work with my Government colleagues to increase housing supply and tackle homelessness. Half a billion euro has been allocated for 2,900 new social housing builds and acquisitions to end 2017. In addition NAMA is to fund the construction of 20,000 housing units,
Joanna Tuffy (Lab)
including 2,000 social units. In order to protect those who are renting, we have increased the rent review period from one to two years and increased notice periods for rent reviews. The Government has also protected the rent supplement scheme which plays a vital role in housing families and individuals, with the scheme supporting approximately 61,000 people. Through the housing assistance payment and the local authorities that operate it, this Government housed more than 5,500 families in 2015. There is much more to be done. The challenge isn’t easy. But this Government is committed to tackling homelessness and increasing housing supply. Our long-term economic plan will ensure the stability we need to deliver on this commitment and it will help avoid a return to the unsustainable boom-and-bust policies of the past which got us into this crisis.
the council has been given the necessary funding to repair and bring vacant council houses into use. This has been very successful and has ensured the return of boarded up local authority units to productive use as homes for families. 2,333 void units were returned to productive use during 2014. The council is giving priority to homeless families when allocating council, social and voluntary houses. For too long, prime sites in Dublin have been left as unproductive empty lots that attract dumping and anti-social behaviour. These sites should be supporting economic activity that would benefit the local community and wider economy. Instead, some owners have elected to leave these sites neglected in search of a bigger personal profit down the road, whatever the cost to the community. I will work to ensure that a vacant site levy, which has already been legislated for, is implemented as soon as possible. This will encourage the owner to develop the site or to sell it to someone who is prepared to develop it.
8 CLONDALKIN Gazette 21 January 2016
21 January 2016 CLONDALKIN Gazette 9
10 CLONDALKIN Gazette 21 January 2016
clondalkinGazettegallery | locals turn out in large numbers
Treacy O’Halloran
Registration day attracted a great number of local people as Lucan Sarsfields started their Operation Transformation group recently. The programme will run alongside the TV show. Pictures: Jolanta Rossiter
Jenny Mahony and Teresa Mullen
Rosemary Lafferty and Mary Flannery
Gerry O’Brien, Donal Crowley and Ger Power
21 January 2016 CLONDALKIN Gazette 11
to register as Lucan Sarsfields started Operation Transformation group
Taking up the healthy lifestyle plan for 2016
Mark Lacey and Louise Ormsby
Rosemary Lafferty and Jenny Mahony
Marie Beegan and Paula Fay
Jean Kavanagh, Caroline Rice and Teresa Mullen
John Egan and Rosemary Lafferty
Lorna Hurl, Neasa O’ Rourke and John Egan
12 Gazette 21 January 2016
commonGazettegallery | movie fans enjoy creed Premiere
Niamh Ryan and Catriona O’Connor
Laura O’Neill
Olympian Kenneth Egan and Kyle Kearney. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
Hits above the belt
Becky Godfrey and Sophie Gorman
Andrew McCabe and Romy Carroll
Joanna Richards
21 January 2016 Gazette 13
asdfsdaf diary P27 P16
Trad Festival 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
cinema: The Revenant – a vengeful ‘inspired by true events’ epic
Haunting tale of survival How far would you go in the pursuit of justice? That is the question that lies at the bloody heart of The Revenant – a visceral and vengeful “inspired by true events” epic that sees Leonardo DiCaprio as a frontiersman abandoned in the bleak American wilderness with revenge as his sole fuel for survival. In a performance that sees its star crawling naked through the snow and consuming raw buffalo liver, it could be argued that the real question being asked here is – how far will DiCaprio have to go to in order to bring home that elusive Oscar? And with The Revenant securing 12 nominations for the awards next month, including a Best Actor nomination for DiCaprio, this looks like it could be the year that finally does it. It is a fitting follow on from last year’s ceremony which saw director Alejandro G Inarritu take home an armful of awards for the effervescent and psychedelic tour-de-force that was Birdman. A plethora of award nominations is one of the only discernible links between both of Inarritu’s recent films.
Dave phillips
While on the surface Birdman was whimsical and surreal, The Revenant is gritty, gruesome, and at times, overwhelmingly raw. Based on a novel of the same name, which in turn was based on early 20th Centur y retelling of Wild West tales, this is a story that has had several layers of aggrandisement heaped upon it on its way to screen. Hugh Glass (DiCaprio) is a tracker who embarks on an expedition to gather furs in the frigid depths of South Dakota under the command of Captain Andrew Henry (Domhnall Gleeson). An intense opening scene depicts the absolute carnage that follows when the trappers are waylaid by a Native American war party, whose land they are pillaging. The muddy, bloody battle becomes stupendous in its scope, and the few remaining fur trappers left in its wake
The Revenant is dominated by DiCaprio’s terrifying and primal performance
are forced to forge a path through the wilderness in an attempt to reach home. Much like Inarritu brought the cityscape to life in Birdman, here the tall pine forests and snow-laden slopes become vitalized. T he Revenant is thronging with stunning shots that at once capture both the inherent beauty and peril of the natural world. Hugh Glass is scouting alone when he is attacked and utterly mauled by a Grizzly bear. Barely alive, the
crew are loathe to leave him, but do not have the resources to get him back to safety. One of the frontiersmen, John Fitzgerald (Tom Hardy) is paid to stay behind until Glass dies and give him a proper burial, but chooses to abandon him, crippled and defenceless some days later, setting in motion Glass’ astounding journey to seek revenge. Played out over almost two-and-a-half hours, The Revenant may be a gruelling tale, but it makes for an easy
watch. Dominated by DiCaprio’s terrifying and primal performance, and bolstered by Hardy and Gleeson’s also excellent turns, The Revenant is a film that strips things down their base components. T he natural world becomes both exquisite and treacherous. Human beings become both angelic and monstrous. And brutality becomes both heinous and routine. An overreliance on CGI at times mars what otherwise feels like a
deeply grounded and at times horrifically real film. But that should not discourage viewers too much. Inarritu has managed to craft something special in The Revenant – by focusing on this small but extraordinary piece of history, he manages to obliquely tell a much larger story of the birth of the American frontiers. It is a story dominated by men, exploitation, greed, and blood; and a story that you won’t regret watching. Verdict: 9/10
Gazette
charity challenge P14
Pets
can you give avocado a loving home? The Dublin Gazette has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Avocado is a threeyear-old female German Shepherd cross. She had a beautiful litter of puppies who have all found their forever homes and now it’s Avocado’s turn! She will need an adult-only home and it’s really important that someone is home for most of the day. Avocado forms very strong bonds with people and really panics when left alone. If you think there is a place in your home for this bright, beautiful and loving girl, please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 o n the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook. com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE
Gazette
14 Gazette 21 January 2016
dublinlife
Revup4dsi: flatley set for motorcycle challenge
The Lord of the Dance takes to the open road
ian begley
ibegley@dublingazette.com
The lord of Irish dance Michael Flatley took time out of his busy schedule to help launch Down Sy ndrome Ireland’s (DSI) annual charity motorcycle challenge Revup4DSI. Motorcyclists across the country are preparing to take to the open road for the DSI event which takes place over the May bank holiday weekend, April 30 to May 2. The successful event was co-founded in 2005 by a pair of keen motorcyclists, Michael McCor-
mick and the late Aidan Lynam, both of whom have daughters, Megan and Robyn, with Down syndrome. Michael (CEO of DSI at the time) was looking to run a motorcycle event for DSI and Aidan (managing a bar at the time) was thinking along similar lines. So after a fairly brief but enthusiastic meeting Rev-up was born. The round Ireland road trip has grown to become one the biggest and most popular fundraising events and has raised over €1.5m in much-needed funds for Down Syndrome Ireland over the last 10 years.
Down Syndrome Ireland are currently planning a number of special events for next year’s RevUp to honour the passing of their esteemed colleague Aidan Lynam. Aidan was the instrumental part of a strong team behind the very first RevUp4DSI and was tragically killed during last year’s event. In memory of Aidan, DSI intend to have their most successful motorcycle challenge yet come May 2016. Secret checkpoints
The event is a point-topoint navigation ride that takes in over 1,000km of
stunning Irish views within a three-day period. On the Saturday, motorcyclists will gather at Joe Duffy’s BMW dealership in Finglas for their first in a series of route cards that will lead them through a number of secret checkpoints and to their base for the night. The following day’s ride will take on a poker run format where a playing card is collected at each checkpoint and the best hand will win. All of which will add to the excitement and camaraderie on the road over this fantastic fundraising weekend. Entry to the three-day
The lord of Irish dance Michael Flatley with Mark Reilly and David Clarke from Drogheda pictured at the launch of Down Syndrome Ireland’s annual charity motorcycle challenge. Picture: Gerard McCarthy
event is by donation, with a minimum requirement of €500 sponsorship per rider and €500 per passenger. Accommodation
and meals are all booked in advance to make it a very relaxing and rewarding weekend of twowheeled fun.
For further information, visit www.revup4dsi. ie, email revup@downsyndrome.ie or call 01 4266500.
21 January 2016 Gazette 15
features
Warm up winter with a banjo and Bovril emma nolan enolan@dublingazette.com
Wave goodbye to the January blues and start the new year with music, dancing and… Bovril! The Banjo and Bovril Trad Festival is making a welcome return to The Harbour Bar in Bray this January 27 to 31. The festival celebrates the old tradition of the Banjo and Bovril nights that took place back in the day and is completely free to attend. When the winter days were coming to a close, the fishermen would arrive in from the sea and head for The Harbour Bar to warm up with steaming mugs of Bovril, before they settled in for a night
of singing and playing music. With some of Bray’s favourites and a few of Ireland’s very best, the line-up includes Moxie, The Bonny Men, Mundy, Ye Vagabonds, John Spillane, Lisa O’Neill, Ronan O Snodaigh and Pete Pamf, Pine Marten, Sheila Garry and Elaine Hogan, Pete Cummins, Hank Wedel, Darren Eedens, Bunoscionn and Old Hannah. Moxie are five young Irish musicians making waves on the Irish music scene with their fresh blend of jazz, rock, bluegrass and world music and The Bonny Men, will bring their set of trad tunes bursting with energy.
Mundy is sure to get the crowd going and brothers Brian and Diarmuid Mac Gloinn of Ye Vagabonds are just back from a tour with Glen Hansard. A c cl a i m e d s i n g e r songwriter John Spillane will also take to the stage. Also performing, with her natural flair for storytelling and combined with a unique sound, Lisa O’Neill’s show promises to be something special. K ila’s Ronan O Snodaigh joins forces with Pete “Pamf” Ruotolo on guitar and Dublin based trio Pine Marten will be bringing their Scandinavian, bluegrass influenced folk to the bill.
Singer songwriter John Spillane will take to the stage
Hailing from Clare, the admired talents of musicians Sheila Garry and Elaine Hogan will be performing and
Grammy Award winner Pete Cummins will be in the house. New York-born and C o r k- r a i s e d s i n g e r
songwriter Hank Wedel will be warming up with some Bovril and guitar slingin’, banjo pickin’ Canadian Dar-
ren Eedens, who has been known to stand on tables while belting out tunes will also be paying the Harbour Bar a visit. To round off one hell of a festival line up, some Harbour Bar favourites will take to the stage with the amazing tradsters Bunoscionn and from Sligo with their own brand of roots, it’s the brilliant Old Hannah. The Banjo and Bovril Trad fest is the perfect way to spend a long, cold Januar y night, dancing away to worldclass Irish acts in a cosy pub with a steaming mug of warming Bovril bringing the traditional banjo and Bovril nights back to life.
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dublinlife
diary
Witnessing a C-Section birth a big eye-opener for students
The live Caesarean Section was broadcast to students via video link from an operating theatre in the Rotunda Hospital. Picture: Maxwell Photography
Last Tuesday January 12, more than 180 students from 90 secondary schools across Ireland witnessed a baby being born via a live caesarean section as part of the RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland) transition year (TY) programme. The week-long interactive RCSI TY MiniMed training programme was held between RCSI on St Stephen’s Green and Beaumont Hospital, Dublin. The live caesarean section was broadcast to students via video link from an operating theatre in the Rotunda Hospital and was performed by a team led by Professor Fergal Malone, the new Master of the Rotunda Hospital. During the procedure, students asked questions to Professor Malone and his surgical team, who answered them while guiding the students through the C-section procedure. Now in its ninth year, the RCSI TY MiniMed programme, gives Transition Year students the opportunity to step out of their usual classroom setting and experience what it is like to train and work as a doctor in the setting of a real hospital.
DSPCA start off 2016 with special Tom cat tenner The DSPCA are delighted to start 2016 with a special Tom Cat Tenner Event which will see the neutering of male cats for just €10 Euro per animal. DSPCA head of Education Gillian Bird said: “Cat populations in Dublin and surrounding
counties has gotten out of control and the DSPCA are urging pet owners and people who are feeding feral cats to act now before the breeding season begins.” Each year the DSPCA take in over 1,500 cats and kittens most of which are born to wild or semi-feral parents. By starting the neutering early in the year, the DSPCA hope to see a reduction in the numbers of feral and unwanted cats. “A healthy and fertile male cat can father thousands of kittens each year, by being active every night of the breeding season. “By neutering the male cats in a territory, the rival males will be kept away and the females will not become pregnant thus cutting down on the numbers of kittens born,” Bird said. Male cats as young as 12 weeks of age can be neutered by the DSPCA Veterinary team. Visit dspca.ie to book your tom cat in for this discounted neutering.
in research carried out by Coyne Research on behalf of Irish Life. The research found that 77% of the Irish workforce believe they deserve more money for the job they do, while 61% of the Irish working population have made friends for life through work and 46% socialise with their colleagues after work. The research was published to mark the launch of Irish Life Empower, an improved workplace pension plan.
domestic water revenue to date hits over €110m Irish Water has confirmed that 61% of customers are now paying water charges at the end of the third billing cycle compared to 55% at the end of the second cycle and 44% at the end of the first billing cycle.
Some 928,000 customers have now paid part or all of their bills, an increase of 98,000 customers who began paying charges for the first time in the past three months. Total revenue from charges paid to date by domestic customers is €110.8m. Revenue received during the third billing cycle was €42.3m, an increase from €38m in the second billing cycle and €30.5m in the first billing cycle. Irish Water plans to spend €522m in starting to address the major deficits in Ireland’s drinking water and wastewater quality and capacity and repairing the most critical infrastructure in need of urgent investment in 2016. Irish Water Customers can find out more on www.water.ie or by calling LoCall 1890 448 448.
Survey reveals the habits of the irish workforce A survey has revealed that nearly half of the Irish workforce regularly ‘dine al desko’ and can’t start work without a coffee or tea, while four in 10 people believe they could do a better job than their boss and over a third of employees admit to having had an office crush and an office romance at some point in their career. The habits and opinions of Ireland’s workforce have been revealed
The DSPCA is offering a special Tom Cat Tenner event which will see the neutering of male cats for just 10 Euro per animal
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Learningcurve
courses: expanding your educational horizons in another country
Are you dreaming of studying abroad?
ian begley
If you dream of studying in Australia or New Zealand then you’re in luck as it has become increasingly popular and accessible in recent years due to the exodus of Irish young people to these countries in search of work. Even though Australia’s environment is vastly different from that of Ireland, its geography and culture present opportunities to study subjects that might be difficult to access in Ireland. This is one of the most interesting aspects of choosing to study abroad and there are a range of unique courses to choose from in the Study in Aus-
tralia section of Studyoptions.com. New Zealand’s geographicalenvironmentalso provides unique opportunities for Irish students, particularly in the medium of science. Irish students can study physical geography among volcanoes, geothermal areas, geysers, glaciers and fiords; orlearn about the unique challenges to civil engineering in an active tectonic zone. For more information see the Study in NewZealand section of Studyoptions.com. For those who are interested in studying abroad, but do not want to stray so far from home, many of the top European universities are actively seeking Irish
students. Places are available on degrees, in a wide range of subjects including: arts and humanities, engineering, life sciences, social sciences, business, IT and health sciences. Students can study degree programmes in a full range of subjects in English, with lectures, books and projects in English. In addition to the educational advantages there are cultural and adventurous aspects of studying abroad also and the young people of Europe are fluent in English in many cities. Entry requirements in Europe are lower than those in Irish universities, as are the entrance fees
Going abroad to study has many advantages such as experiencing new cultures, lower entrance fees and requirements an can look impressive on a CV
in many cases. There are no fees for Irish students studying in Scandanavia, while in Austria, Germa-
ny and Switzerland, fees are below €1,500 per annum in state funded institutions. Fees are also
reasonably low in Italy and the Netherlands, and some countries also offer Tuition Fee Loans
or grants to contribute to living expenses. Irish students who qualified for Maintenance Grants can take them with them, to public programmes on the continent. Along with all of the other advantages, the standard of education is also very high. Programmes are offered by some of Europe’s leading research universities, as well as some top universities of applied sciences and career-oriented university colleges. Additionally, a qualification from a European institution looks very impressive on a CV. For more information on studying abroad visit: www.eunicas.ie/
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Learningcurve
IT Tallaght hold Open Day What differentiates an institute of technology from a university? Traditionally there have been three main factors; the additional entry options for students in the form of the Level 6 and Level 7 courses which can be used as a ladder to progress on to the Level 8 Honours Degree, the increased focus on exposing students to more practical skills through industry-style projects and assignments and, finally, the supportive learning environment which is achieved through smaller class sizes which facilitates more individual support. IT Tallaght’s Open Day is taking place on Saturday,January 23from 10am – 1pm. According to IT Tal-
laght, the 2015 computing graduates had an employment rate of 90% within three months in the ICT sector, with an additional 5% going on to further study. This is an exceptional progression rate of 95% after less than three months, with typical salaries in the region of €35,000. The college itself has three schools; Business and Humanities, Science and Computing and Engineering with a total of 41 courses across all levels. In 2015, the Culinary Arts department launched their own Masters Programme, the first of its’ kind globally. For more information on the courses on offer, as well as the new initiatives in the college, visit www. ittdublin.ie.
money: the importance of budgets and paying bills on time
Learning how to manage finances ian begley
Many people going to college this year will be living alone for the first time and will have no experience of budgeting and paying bills. Managing your finances is just as important as managing your timetable and study plan. According to Dublin City University, recent figures show that the total cost for a student living away from home in self-catering shared accommodation for the eight-and-a-half month academic year is almost €7,000. For those who
stay at home the total cost is €3,433. A further nontuition fee, in the region of €400, must be added for non-grant holders attending certain institutions. According to director of student affairs at DCU Barry Kehoe: “The total cost-of-living figures are approximate. Some students will spend more on travel or food, while others may splurge on books or pay a higher rent.” While the total spend seems like a lot of money, Kehoe says these are minimum amounts for survival with a small portion allocated to social life. The following is a list of tips for first time students to survive their first academic year. Always pay bills on time to avoid late fees. You don’t want to find yourself in a position where you have several bills to pay at once which cannot be put off any longer. If you have a credit card, make a personal note of every purchase you make as you don’t want to be taken by surprise with a huge bill. When this dreaded bill does arrive, try to pay it off as quickly as possible, as bad credit follows you everywhere. Never go food shopping when you are hungry, as you will invariably buy too much, some of which is bound to go to waste. Don’t make impulse purchases, always make a shopping list and buy in bulk. Just because food is cheaper in discount supermarkets doesn’t necessarily mean its unhealthier so shop there whenever possible. Also, these are great places to save money on things like toiletries and household supplies. Always bring lunch from home and try to avoid eating out often.
Limit the number of times you allow yourself to eat out over the period of a month. Create a budget, contact your student union to see if it runs second hand book schemes, take full advantage of student discount’s and always enquire if one is on offer. Look for special offers everywhere and check out second-hand shops for clothes, books and furniture. Investing in a Leap card is a great way to save money. Many students will have to get four buses or more a day, and those few cents saved on each journey add up.
Creating a budget is just one way of managing your finances
21 January 2016 Gazette 19
series: Literature and revolutions
Spring evening lectures at Trinity ian begley
T h e Tr i n i t y C o l lege School of English is hosting a range of spring evening lectures throughout the next several months, titled Literature and Revolutions. The series is inspired by the centenary of the Easter Rising. Some of the talks will focus on this historic occasion and its impact on Ireland’s literature and culture while the rest will explore other revolutions along with their literary dimensions. On Tuesday, January 19, Professor Patten will discuss the representation of the 1916 Easter Rising in fiction, looking at a range of novels from 1917 to the present day, and from Eimar O’Duffy to Roddy Doyle, to assess the role of the novel in depicting the revolutionary generation of Ireland’s early 20th century. On Tuesday, January 26, Brendan O’Connell will present a lecture entitled The Beastly Rebels of 1381, which will examine works by writers such as Gower, Langland and Chaucer, exploring the various ways each uses animal imagery to convey the motives and
All lectures take place in the Jonathan Swift Lecture Theatre, Arts Building, Trinity College Dublin
actions of the rebels, and to articulate a wider political vision. Professor Dawe will talk about his latest book Of War and War’s Alarms on Tuesday, February 16. His volume presents a multifaceted study of war and revolution and their impact on the writing lives of Irish poets and novelists from WWI and the Easter Rising through the War of Independence to the Spanish Civil War, WWII and the Northern Troubles. DrEmaVyroubalova will host a lecture on the literary and cinematic afterlives of the Prague Spring on Tuesday, March 8. She
will look at how the events of one of the revolutions taking place across Europe in the 1960s – the Czechoslovak Prague Spring of 1968 – and its suppression by the Soviet army the following summerwas re-presented, re-worked, and re-imagined by writers, playwrights and film directors. On Tuesday, March 22, Chris Morash will also discuss an interesting topic on how time effected the 1916 rising. “At 12.20 noon onApril 24, 1916, the first group of volunteers stormed the General Post OfficeinDublin;inLondon, the clocks read 11:54am. From 1880 until Octoberof
1916, Ireland had its own time zone - a situation that was changed at least partly in response to the Rising.” This lecture will look at the ways in which Irish literature of the time, particularly theworks ofWBYeats signaled the sudden slipperiness of time itself. The cost to attend the entire series of lectures is €50, with individual lectures priced at €6 each. Concessionary rates for the full series will be €35 with individual lectures €5 each. A full programme and booking form is available on the OscarWilde Centre website at www.tcd.ie/ owc.
Open day at Stillorgan College of Further Education ian begley
Stillorgan College of Further Education are hosting an Open Evening on Wednesday, January 27, from 5.30 to 7.30pm, with details on what the college has to offer on display during the event. The college offers courses in areas such as multimedia, animation, travel and tourism, journalism, media production, art, photography, business and computer skills and event management.
Stillorgan College recently developed a new course in multimedia production with games design. The interactive media and games sector has been identified as a priority area fortraining,as there is currently a skills shortage in this growth industry. Another recent addition to the list of courses is a Level 5 course in animation.This introductory course prepares students with little or no experience for a third level course in animation production.With a dual focus on drawing and computer skills, the
course will cover all the fundamental areas required fora successful portfolio submission. Students will learn to visually develop and communicate their ideas through life drawing, storyboarding, character design, background design and planning. Stillorgan College is also hosting a second Open Day on Wednesday, March 9, from 10.30am – 3.30pm. More details about the college and the courses on offer are available from the college website at www.stillorgancollege.ie.
Gazette
Learningcurve
Irish Student Summit 2016 to take place in February ian begley
The Irish Student Summit 2016 will take place on February 4 in Dublin Castle and will have over 600 students, 40-plus start-ups, 22 workshops and powerhouse business speakers from Silicon Valley and Ireland, with speakers from Twitter, Paddy Power, Silicon Republic, Ireland AM and Humans of Dublin. One student start-up will also walk away with a €1,500 investment in their business idea. A panel of judges will narrow down applications to the 10 best applicants from the online submissions and the public will be able to vote for their favourite two on Twitter and Facebook. The final two applicants will go head-to-head in front of an audience and a panel of judges, who will
vote for the winner. Students interested in applying for this investment are asked to upload a two minute video to YouTube with their business pitch and send the linkto Fiona. omalley@usi.ie. Applicants must put ‘Student Summit 16’ in the video title before their name and ‘application’ at the end. The judges are looking for new product ideas, new business ideas or new service ideas – either at infancy or development stage. The rules of the competition state that all applicants must be second or third level students, must be the owners or founders of the company that the application is for or they must own the intellectual rights to the product idea they have. To booktickets to the Student Summit, visit www.studentsummit2016.eventbrite.ie/
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Learningcurve
Special interest rates for education loans at St Patrick’s Credit Union St Patrick’s Credit Union offers an education loan at a special interest rate of 6.7%APRdesigned primarily for members who have a child going to third level (it can also be used for adult learning, primary and post-primary education costs). Members can apply for approval for the full amount that will be incurred over the duration of the course (typically from one to fouryears) and then draw down the loan in various stages and amounts as and when required during this period. This gives the member peace of mind knowing
they have the financial resources to put their child/children through college, and avoids the uncertainty of having to apply for a loan each year. The credit union has offices at 22 UpperErne St (Pearse) 1a UpperOriel St (StLawrenceO’Toole)and 27/28 Herbert Place St Patricks Credit Union. See their website www.stpatrickscu.ie for opening times and more details, or contact them on Free call 1800 94 00 77. Credit union membership is determined by where you live and/or work. See their website to see if you qualify to become a member.
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stem subjects: Developing new approaches to teaching
Learning with Lego at Dublin City University ian begley
Dublin City University is partnering with Lego Education to create an interactive learning hub that will help DCU student teachers and Irish schools develop innovative and creative approaches to teaching STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects in the classroom. The creation of the flagship Lego Education Innovation Studio (LEIS), will see the new Institute of Education at DCU’s St Patrick’s Campus, Drumcondra become the first centre of teacher education in Ireland to mainstream these innovative approaches across all its programmes. The Institute’s students will develop new approaches to teaching that can be replicated in
Dan Gilbert, IT Services , DCU and Nicola Broderick, Science Education, DCU at the DCU announcement of a flagship Lego Education Centre
schools throughout the country, igniting a passion for STEM subjects from early childhood education right through to third level. By adopting Lego’s playful learning tools,
teachers graduating from DCU Institute of Education will be fully skilled in helping schoolchildren develop Hands-on Mindson’ 21st century skills such as creative thinking, problem-solving, teamworking and communication. Professor Brian MacCraith, president of DCU and chair of the STEM Education Working Group said: “High quality STEM education is of pivotal importance to a knowledge-based society and economy such as Ireland. Our ultimate purpose at DCU Institute of Education is to inspire and develop students to think creatively, reason systematically and release the potential to shape their own future and the future of their students in turn. “This unique collaboration with Lego Education can play a key role in transforming the future of STEM learning in Ireland, helping future generations to develop
a sense of wonder about the subjects that allow us to understand, measure, design and advance our physical world.” The new studio will have the capacity to develop research projects through linkages with existing DCU research centres such as the Centre for the Advancement of Science and Mathematics Teaching and Learning and to explore cross-faculty research possibilities with the faculty of Engineering and Computing. Internationally the Lego Education Innovation Studio at DCU will lead a European teacher education network to develop new teaching methods across Europe and exchange ideas and best practice. The network will include existing partners from Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium and Switzerland. Speaking at the announcement of the new initiative at DCU St Patrick’s Campus, Dr Deirdre Butler said: “This
flagship innovation space is a wonderful example of a smart partnership enabling the Institute of Education to be the first to mainstream the Lego Education principles across the full spectrum of teacher education. “It brings together Lego Education’s range of expressive learning materials with the Institute’s creative, innovative leaders in teaching and learning to design exciting learning environments in which our children can develop the range of skills necessary to thrive in this globally connected digital world.” Outreach activities of the Lego Education Innovation Studio will include a range of continuing professional development for teachers; opportunities for teachers to bring their classes to use the resources in-studio; open days and evenings for schools and local community groups and hosting the first Lego and Junior Lego Leagues.
21 January 2016 Gazette 21
Gazette
counselling: being on your own can be tough for students
There is always hope and help when dealing with depression
î Ž ian begley
More than 450,000 people experience some form of depression at any one time in Ireland, according to Aware, a charity helping those suffering from depression. Students and young people in general, make up a large portion of those who go through depression as many people experience the first symptoms of depression during their college years. Factors such as living away from home for the first time, dwin-
dling career options and declining living standards can leave some students feeling lost and alone. This can lead to some students feeling like there is no hope and no help for them but this is not the case. There is help available on most college campus’ in Ireland and students embarking on a college course should be aware that these services are always accessible to them. For any students who may be struggling, here
is a list of helpful services you can access if you feel you need to talk: UCD Student Counselling Service is a free ser vice and is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. You can call (01) 7163133 or call into the Student Health Centre in the Student Centre for more information. UCD also have a programme called Please Talk which is a voluntary organisation run by students and staff and its aim is to provide information and sup-
port to students. For more information email ucd@pleasetalk.ie Trinity College provides support, guidance and treatment options for students suffering from mental health issues through their College Health Service and their Counselling Service. To contact the College Health Centre call (01) 8961591. DCU run a Counselling and Personal Development Service which is a confidential and free service and is available to all students. For more
information, call (01) 7005165 or email counselling@dcu.ie Alternatively, there is a listening support service called Niteline that is a confidential phone service run by and for the students of DCU, NCAD, RCSI, TCD, NUIM and their affiliate colleges. Niteline is open every night during term time from 9pm to 2.30am and you can call about any problem you may be experiencing. For more information, log onto www.niteline. ie or call 1800793793.
Students and young people in general, make up a large portion of those who go through depression. Picture: Annifer Photography
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Learningcurve
More options in higher education The recent formation of a Regional Cluster Strategic Partnership, with DCU, Athlone Institute of Technology, Dundalk Institute of Technology and Maynooth University, is expected to provide “exciting opportunities for the development of higher education across the Midlands-East and North Dublin Region”. The creation of this cluster is in line with the HigherEducationAuthority’s Towards a Future report which sets out a vision for the higher education landscape in Ireland. The four parties to this agreement have distinctive yet complementary visions for higher educa-
tion across the region. Each organisation will continue to function independently, but will collaborate on activities that are mutually beneficial to help them achieve national educational objectives. Professor Ciaran O Cathain, president of Athlone Institute ofTechnology said: “Each of our organisations have clearly demonstrated a leadership role in our local environments. Maynooth University and Athlone Institute of Technology already have a shared history of successful collaboration on bi-lateral projects, as have DCU and Dundalk Institute of Technology.
student digs: research is key to finding accommodation
Finding a home away from home ian begley
Searching for student accommodation in Dublin can be an arduous task with soaring rent prices and high levels of students in need of somewhere to live for the coming year. The price of accommodation is a massive factor that needs to be considered when looking for accommodation. Rent prices can range from €300 for a shared room and continue up to €700 or more for a more luxurious apartment. It is, therefore, very important to start searching for accommodation as early as possible before the start of the first semester or the closer it gets to the
beginning of the college year. It is advised to do as much research as you can online, but also to make sure to view the areas and accommodation you are considering renting in. Ask friends or family living in Dublin about what the area is like and ask them for alternative recommendations. Thoroughly check out public transport connections between the college and the accommodation Some areas can look close to the college on the map but may be difficult to reach by bus or Luas. Also, make full use of any accommodation support offered by the college or student union, as they will be able to offer practical help and advice. It is also very important to know your rights. In most cases, rent is usually payable monthly and in advance. At the beginning of a letting period, tenants are required to pay a deposit of one month’s rent which will be refunded when the lease is up or if the tenant decides to leave once the lease is up. If, however, a tenant causes any damage to the property, the landlord has the right to hold onto the deposit to fix the damage. Make sure that the landlord gives you a rent book so that tax relief on any rent paid can be reclaimed. Ask the landlord if they are registered with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB). By law, landlords must be registered with the PRTB and if they have not registered there may be problems down the road. Don’t forget there are other ways to rent in Dublin which include on-campus accommodation, longterm student hostels and accommodation with a family. Visit www.rent.ie/ student-accommodation/ for more information on what lettings are available.
Soaring rents can leave students bewilderd but starting your search early can help
21 January 2016 Gazette 23
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Learningcurve
investment: budget increase will support important initiatives
‘We are at a critical time for education in Ireland’ We are at a critical time for education in Ireland. The economy is recovering, employment is increasing and tax receipts are ahead of targets. While we cannot afford to take this newfound recovery and stability for granted, those of us with a passionate interest in educationcanlookforward to increased investment over the coming years. Budget 2016 saw important investment in education. The current education budget increased by €144m. This additional expenditure allowed for important initiatives including a reduction of one point to average primary school class sizes, increasedguidancecounselling in second-level schools, the provision of 600 additional resource teachers, improvements to school leadership, ring-fenced funding forapprenticeships and some additional support for disadvantaged students at third level. The education sectorwill also benefit from €3.8bn in capital spending up to 2021. Budget 2016 was a good start in responding to the needs of the education system, but we will need to go much furtheroverthe coming years. There is,of course,a need for investment in charting a renewed vision for education in Ireland,but money is not the only lever required. We also need a commitment to reform. Overrecent years, despite the paucity of available funding, we have led a hugely significant programme of reform through all sectors of education, and
the commitment of each of the education partners to delivering that reform has been commendable. This reformwill lead to long term change in the education system. We have created greater choice in school patronage, literacy and numeracy scores have improved for the first time in a generation, school self-evaluation has been introduced and significant changes made to school inspection. The era of unqualified teachers working in our classrooms is over, and underperformance amongst teachers will be tackled with new fitness to practice hearings. We have reduced by 50% the amount spent on the inefficient renting of prefabs. We have published and funded a new digital strategy forschools thatwill transform our approaches to teaching, learning and assessment.
Measures This Government has taken several measures to expand and improve the provision of high quality early years education, including the establishment of a new educationfocused inspections of early years and the publication of the Aistear Siolta Practice Guide. Initial teacher education has been dramatically overhauled and improved, with the number of teacher training colleges already reduced from 19 to 12. We have created 16 local education and training boards to replace 33 VECs, and cre-
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‘In the coming months, we will be facing the conclusion of this Government’s mandate, and our collective thoughts must turn to the choices we will face in electing the next government’
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ated SOLAS to replace the discredited FAS. Four consortia are now working towards achieving Technological University status. QQI has been created to replace four different accreditation and quality assurance bodies. Regional skills fora are being established, to deepen the links between ETBs, Higher Education
institutes and local industry. Regional clusters have been put in place to improve cooperation between HEIs, while we have started to systematically analyse the performance of each University and Institute of Technology. These are not individual, disconnected reforms, but all form part of a
system-wide programme of change that is designed to meaningfully improve educational outcomes at all levels. Through these reforms, we have four simple objectives: to improve quality and accountability; to support inclusion and diversity; to encourage learning for life; and to build the right systems and infrastructure.
In the coming months, we will be facing the conclusionofthisGovernment’s mandate, and our collective thoughts must turn to the choices we will face in electing the next government. Within education, we will face furtherchoices. We have worked to deliver ambitious but achievable reform of the education sector. Some will argue for deeper, faster reform that takes less account of the views of stakeholders. And others still will argue for the retention of much of the status quo. There will be no reenergising of the Irish state, and of our social contract,
without a commitment to education and to an ongoing renewal of education. The choices we make in the coming months will make one thing clear to all: the degree to which different parties genuinely believe that the needs of those we serve in education, from the youngest pre-school child to the retired lady who decides to return to education, should dominate our thinking. I know they dominate mine.
Jan O’Sullivan (Lab) Minister for Education and Skills
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21 January 2016 Gazette 25
dublinlife
HEALTH
FlyeFit has opened their fifth franchise on George’s Street Dublin gym chain FlyeFit has opened its fifth franchise on George’s Street. The new inner city location offers the compact FlyeFit model that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Affordable and straightforward, this is a no-frills facility that gets the job done and the affordable price of €29 a month or €32 a month for roaming membership which includes access to its other locations; Ranelagh, Baggot Street, Macken Street and Swords. The new George’s Street site fea-
tures a huge high performance area with 10 squat racks, as well as a free weight area. There’s a studio in the loft fitted with TRX equipment, a cardio zone equipped with numerous treadmills, cross trainers and rowing machines, a spin studio for spin classes and an astro floored studio for classes. Classes are included in membership and are suitable for all levels of fitness. Personal training is also available with the FlyeFit trainers separate to membership.
The bones of the body become more porous and brittle from osteoporosis
Keeping your bones strong and healthy Susan Boland Nutritional Therapist DipIHS NTOI
Fitness Coach IETA
Osteoporosis is a degenerative disease of the skeletal system that is characterised by deterioration of bone tissue, along with a decrease in bone mass making them fragile and more likely to break and affects millions of people in Ireland. People receive hospital treatment for fragility fractures every year as a result of osteoporosis with wrist, hip and fractures of the vertebrae the most common type of breaks. However, they can also occur in other bones, such as in the arm, ribs or pelvis.
Warnings There are usually no warnings an individual has developed osteoporosis and it’s often only diagnosed when
a bone is fractured after even minor falls. Osteoporosis results from an imbalance between the ingestion and absorption of calcium into the body and its excretion. Loss of bone-building materials can occur as the body ages, and is particularly prevalent among post-menopausal women, the early stage is osteopenia. The architecture of bone requires many nutrients to maintain and restore its integrity but there are at least 20 essential vitamins and minerals that have to be obtained from food. Causes include: family history/sedentary lifestyle/decrease in oestrogen. Digestion: Poor uptake of minerals from the diet due to low acid levels in the stomach or other causes of malabsorption of food Stress: may cause low
acid levels in the stomach, high cortisol, tissue acidity and inflammation also inflammatory conditions may lead
Medication: which affects hormonal balance or bone strength such as cor ticosteroids/steroids, thyroid
--------------------------------------------------------
‘There are usually no warnings an individual has developed osteoporosis and it’s often only diagnosed when a bone is fractured after even minor falls’ --------------------------------------------------------
to cartilage and bone destruction Diet: An acidic diet/ high cortisol may cause calcium to be leached from the bones to restore the acid/alkaline balance. Drinks: Caffeine, sugar and carbonated (fizzy) drinks affect calcium absorption or increase calcium excretion. Social: Heavy drinking or smoking/Lack of weight bearing exercise/ Lack of sunshine
hormones, aluminum containing antacids and diuretics Drug therapies for osteoporosis include bisphosphonates, these drugs are associated with a growing list of concerns, including research that suggests a link between the use of bisphosphonates and oesophageal cancer. More inf orma tion can be obtained from my website susiebwellness.ie/.
Take the pledge and make an eye test part of your routine Research shows that sight is the sense people fear losing the most and yet most don’t consider an eye test to be a core part of their health routine. Some 21% of the population have never had a sight test at all, rising to 36% of those under the age of 35. Now, as part of Healthy Eyes Awareness Week, January 18 to 24, eye health experts are urging people to take action and commit to having regular eye exams as part of a healthy lifestyle. David Hewlett, chief executive of FODO Ireland, who represents opticians in Ireland said: “An eye exam is a vital health check which can detect a range of health conditions for which you experience no symptoms and where early detection can pre-
vent sight loss. “These conditions can only be prevented if they are detected early and the key to that are regular eye exams.” Peter Coleman, chief executive of the Assoc of Opticians in Ireland (AOI) said: “We want to remind people during the Healthy Eyes campaign that even if you think your eyesight is good, you only know for sure if you get your eyes tested regularly.” Healthy Eyes Awareness Week is a chance for people to pledge their commitment to have an eye exam and encourages a positive attitude to all aspects of eye health. As part of the campaign people are encouraged to take pictures of themselves holding the Eye Pledge leaflet and share on social media #eyepledge.
26 clondalkin gazette 21 January 2016
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Gazette
28 gazette 21 January 2016
SPORT
FastSport
basketball: woods, painter and Mcdermott on flying form
Balbirnie’s extra training ahead of PNG contest FORMER Pembroke cricketer Andrew Balbirnie recently completed a three-day batting camp ahead of Ireland’s ICC Inter-Continental Cup fixture with Papua New Guinea. Returning to Dublin for a couple of days before flying out to Australia for that match, Balbirnie took part in the camp, which was run by assistant coach Pete Johnston with the support of team manager Chris Siddell, along with six teammates. Balbirnie spoke about the importance of the camp, especially given the time of year. “It went very well, most of us haven’t hit balls since before Christmas so to get the chance to all come together before we go on tour to hit balls, either red or white balls, is key.” The batters flew out to Brisbane to join up with the rest of the squad on Sunday, with a warm up match in Brisbane on the horizon before travelling to Townsville for the Inter Continental Cup match with Papua New Guinea on January 31.
DCU Mercy’s Sarah Woods combined for 75 points with Chelisa Painter and Aoife McDermott
DCU close in on league title sport@dublingazette.com
DCU Mercy took a step closer to a regular season title with a 12-point win at defending champions Team Montenotte Hotel in the women’s basketball National League last weekend. Chelisa Painter, Aoife McDermott and Sarah Woods combined for 75 points in the 82-70 win. “They’re a very motivated
team right now now and moving the ball a bit better which always makes it easier,” said coach Mark Ingle. “Our sights are set on trying to win the regular season but it is all about one game at a time. We’ve found a new way to win. We’re not as fluent on offence but we’ve picked up our defence,” he continued. Mercy recovered from a 19-6 first quarter
deficit to lead by eight points at half time. Meteors kept control of a playoff spot with a gritty 58-40 win at Courtyard Liffey Celtics. In a game which failed to ignite after a low scoring opening quarter, Meagan McGuinness and Beth Meany helped push out Meteors’ lead down the stretch. Pyrobel Killester toughed out a 64-59 win over UL Huskies in Limerick. 31 points from Sarah Benedetti put Huskies on course but with Rae Contreras on form for Killester, the Dublin side overturned the 36-33 half-time score. Twenty points from Cathy Kavanagh helped understrength Maxol WIT Wildcats to a 71-56 at home to Portlaoise Panthers, but it wasn’t enough to break the Waterford side into the playoff spots. Claire Melia top scored for Panthers. On the men’s side, GCD Swords Thunder inflicted Templeogue’s first defeat of the season
in what served as a Hula Hoops Men’s National Cup final dress-rehearsal. Thunder upped their inside game in the second quarter with a 16-6 run and pushed Jason Killeen into foul trouble. Templeogue’s efforts to regain parity were further hampered by the loss of Conor Grace to a hand injury while Thunder continued to apply tough defence. Thunder Coach Dave Baker said: “When a team is unbeaten, everyone steps up to try and knock them down. Neither side played well tonight but they only beat us by a point last time out so we felt we owed them a little. We’re just concentrating on making top four at this stage.” SSE Airtricity Moycullen are up to eighth place in the table after a 76-68 win at home to Rathfarnham’s Eanna BC. American Raheem Lemons made his debut for the Galway side but it was Ronan O’Sullivan who topped out with 20 points. Eanna had the
better start and were also closing in on Moycullen in the fourth quarter before the final buzzer sounded. The visitors had Conor Gallagher, Connor Poston and Sean Gordon in double-digits. In the last game of the weekend, C&S UCC Demons beat UCD Marian 80-68 at the Mardyke Arena. With just a basket between the sides at halftime, Lehmon Colbert’s 28 points helped Demons pull clear. The win moves Demons level on points with Templeogue, albeit with an additional game played. Pyrobel Killester shook off their cup defeat in impressive style with an 84-61 win over DCU Saints. N i n e t e e n - y e a r- o l d Eoghain Kiernan was top scorer with 19 points for Brian O’Malley’s side as they built on a 48-35 lead at half time. Martins Provizors and Duane Johnson combined for 38 points on their second appearance together for DCU Saints.
21 January 2016 gazette 29
Gazette
annual awards: rcsi set to host celebration of a stellar year
Shorlist hails Dub sailors sport@dublingazette.com
A STRONG Dublin contingent are in the running for the annual Irish Sailing Awards which will take place at the historic Royal College of Surgeons on
Thursday, February 4. The annual awards celebrate Irish achievement and success on the water, both domestically and internationally in 2015 with Rathfarnham’s Olympian Annalise Murphy among the
star attractions. Four awards will be presented on the day – The Afloat Sailor of the Year award; the Mitsubishi Motors Club of the Year award; the ISA Youth Sailor of the Year award; and the ISA
Nominees and winners from last year’s annual Irish Sailing Awards
FastSport Peas and Shels in a pod with WNL stalemate:
Howth duo Colin O’Sullivan and Douglas Elmes have been nominated for youth sailor of the year
Training Centre of the Year award. The highlight of the day is the presentation of the Afloat Sailor of the Year.
Nominees Nominees this year include John Twomey, who qualified for his 11th Paralympics in December - an Irish record; Frenchman Sidney Gavignet, who beat the round Ireland sailing speed record on his MOD 70 MusandamOman trimaran in May; and Justin Slattery, a key crew member on board the winning boat, Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing in the Volvo Ocean race, viewed by many as the pinnacle of international ocean sailing.
The nominees for the Youth Sailor of the Year award were selected on the basis of medal results from world or European championships, including those with top 10 results from the year gone by. This award is dominated by Howth YC with Aoife Hopkins, Colin O’Sullivan, Ewan McMahon and Douglas Elmes with Lough Derg’s Aisling Keller and Waterford’s Geoff Power also on the list. The nominees for the ISA Training Centre of the Year award were selected on a regional basis and will receive a regional award on the day. T h e ove r a l l w i n ner will be announced
from the following list of nominees: The Royal Irish Yacht Club (Dublin – Eastern Region); F o y n e s Ya c h t C l u b (Limerick - Southern Region); and Mullingar Sailing Club (Westmeath – Western Region). The Mitsubishi Motors Club of the Year award is given to a club with sailing success at local, national and international level; and takes into account satisfaction of club members; the club’s impact in sailing development and training; the relationship with the local community, and relevant governmental and sporting bodies, both at local and national level.
PEAMOUNT United and Shelbourne Ladies LFC played out a highly entertaining 2-2 draw in the Dublin derby at Greenogue. Noelle Murray opened the scoring for Shels - rifling into the top right corner of the Peamount net on 32 minutes. The hosts were level three minutes after the restart. Amber Barrett’s shot rattled the Shelbourne crossbar and the rebound fell for Sarah McEvitt to drive into the bottom corner of Niamh Reid-Burke’s goal. The game sprung to life and Shelbourne retained their lead on 51 minutes as Siobhan Killeen unlocked the Peas defence for Sarah Rowe to find the net. High drama was left until the final minute as Barrett’s shot again rattled the woodwork and Roma McLaughlin saved a point for Peas with the equaliser meaning both sides are unbeaten in this year’s League Cup.
Brilliant Barton strike lands Premier title for Alex sport@dublingazette.com
The Alexandra College side that won the Senior Premier League last week. Picture: Adrian Boehm
ALEISHA Barton’s extra time goal saw Alexandra College win back the Leinster schoolgirls Senior Premier League title on Tuesday afternoon at Grange Road, edging out Loreto Foxrock 1-0 in a tense final. She swept home following a superb attack via Katherine Egan and Jan Cleary on the baseline. Cleary waited superbly before picking out Barton arriving late to finish off the move with four minutes
to go in silver goal extra time. It was the only breakthrough as both goalkeepers, Caroline Nugent for Alex, Jane ConwayKenny for Foxrock, produced fine performances between the posts. Earlier on, Foxrock had slightly the better of the first half exchanges with Christina Hamill – the Leinster Under16 captain – forging the clearest of chances when she cut through one-on-one. Nugent, though, did superbly to spot the danger and slide out and make the save low
down. She subsequently was lobbed by another effort but somehow got her glove up high enough to clear the danger over the endline. Alex were somewhat subdued in the opening period, a far cry from their semi-final when their business was all but done and dusted in a 7-0 win over Loreto Beaufort. Foxrock had gritted their way through a 2-1 battle with Mount Anville and relished the contest with Ellen Curran in midfield and Hannah McLoughlin at the back dig-
ging in. Alex, though, came out strong in the second half and dominated the play, pinning Foxrock in the 23m area for long periods. McLoughlin managed to block a number of attacks down the middle before the Milltown school started moving the ball more dramatically to the left to Ava Beatty and Sophie Roopnarinesingh. They won corners but could not convert until Barton’s precious moment in silver goal extra time.
Gazette
30 clondalkin gazette 21 January 2016
SPORT
FastSport
rugby: three second half tries help lift side off the bottom
Bluebell post massive 3-0 win over Crumlin IN WHAT has been the closest LSL Sunday Senior division in many a season, a rare Saturday fixture saw Pearse Park host the biggest game of the campaign so far in Crumlin United vs Bluebell United. It saw the 2013/14 champions host their successors and it was the visitors from the Red Cow who left with all three points after an impressive 3-0 win. A high tempo was set early on which disrupted the hosts and it was maintained throughout much of the 90 minutes. The opening goal came after Crumlin wasted a chance to go in front and the Bell broke with Tony Griffith eventually teeing up Aji Sule. The in-form attacker’s first cross was blocked, as was his second, but he pounced on the third ball to bury past Shane Supple on 16 minutes. Crumlin awoke after going behind and saw more of the ball but the attacking midfield trio of James Lee, Alan McGreal and Conor Murphy failed to create too much given their quality. Bluebell chose to sit a little deeper but still looked dangerous through the likes of Shane Stritch, Tony Keeler and Sule when they did attack. Crumlin began to dominate in the second half after a few switches with Lee to the fore and it was youngster Dean Hurley who was now operating on the right who gave them their best chance of equalising. Having danced through a number of challenges with ease, the Crumlin man was hacked down inside the box and the referee pointed to the spot. Up-stepped Kevin Dempsey with the kick but Andy McNulty pulled off not one, but two, top-class saves in a matter of seconds to keep Martin Loughran’s men at bay. With 20 minutes to go, McNulty’s heroics really paid off when the champions doubled their advantage. Hyland sold Supple short with a back pass and Stritch swooped in to make it 2-0. With the hosts pressing for something late on, the cherry was added. Sule pounced on a loose Crumlin pass before bursting down the left, lifting his head and finding Stritch who grabbed his second and Andy Noonan’s side’s third. The win sends Bluebell a point clear of Crumlin at the top of the table with two games to spare.
Clondalkin’s Gael Stowe breaks through the New Ross defensive line. Picture: Sharon Flanagan
Clonettes January bonus
ail qualifier div 1
Clondalkin New Ross sport@dublingazette.com
27 12
C L O N DA L K I N ’ S women rose off the foot of the Leinster AIL qualifier league Division 1 with an important 27-12 over New Ross at Gordon Park on an ideal day for rugby. They got off to a great start as early pressure yielded a penalty for handling in the ruck and out-half Gael Stowe successfully converted with the aid of the right upright and the crossbar.
Both sides duly settled into an excellent, tough contest, trying to break through each other’s defence. The first success fell to New Ross who scored just to the left of the Clondalkin posts with the conversion also being successful. This goaded the Clonettes into extra effort and, following a well-worked move, scrumhalf Brid Holohan touched down near the left corner flag on 35 minutes which put her side back into the lead. Once again, the
late drama Under-15 side denied by late DLSP breakaway the Clondalkin RFC Under-15s played out a lively battle with DLSP last Sunday, with plenty of pride and passion on display from both sides. The game came down to the last play with Clon’s young charges making one final push for the line, only to have the ball turned over and the visitors broke out to take the win. Although the win was snatched from their grip, Clon held their heads high from their performance.
response was swift and it did not take long for New Ross to work their way back dow n the pitch. After a series of penalties, a quick tap allowed them to touch down to the right of the posts, helping them into a 12-8 lead at the break. It proved the Wexford side’s last score, though, as Clondalkin stepped up a gear. Making their way into the opponents half through the hard work of the forwards, the ball was worked out to the left wing, Jenny Hunt. From the 10-metre line,
she had a lot to do but purposefully made her way to touch down in the left corner for her first try for the club. Further reward came 20 minutes into the second half when second centre Aine Heffernan collected the ball just on the half way line. Straightening her run, she sped towards the New Ross line only to be tackled just short but she had the presence of mind to turn on the ground and reach over the line to touch down for a try – also her first for Clondalkin. Stowe was successful with the
conversion. Stowe subsequently killed off the game when she cut through the New Ross defense from all of 40 metres and, despite some close attention, touched down for a well-deserved try which she successfully converted. It ensured a bonus point into the bargain and sets the side up well for their remaining league fixtures. Their next game is away to Old Belvedere on Sunday, January 24 followed the next Sunday by the final league home game against
21 January 2016 CLONDALKIN gazette 31
Gazette
photo auction
President Keogh’s canvas Canada-bound
Round tower, clondalkin
round Tower club president Tommy
Keogh’s photo of the Round Tower and St John’s Church has found a home in Alberta, Canada. Keogh donated the canvas to the club for auction prior to Christmas and the winning bid came from Robert Errity who is living in Canada. His brother Greg, presently on holiday in Ireland, is pictured receiving the canvas from Keogh.
Longford bring Dubs trophy run to an end
Longford 1-12 Dublin 0-9 sport@dublingazette.com
DU BL I N we r e we l l below their emphatic best on Sunday, January 17 in Pearse Park, Longford as the home side outfought the All-Ireland champions, claiming a place in the final with a 1-12 to 0-9 win. Nonetheless, Dublin manager Jim Gavin says that the Bord na Mona O’Byrne Cup proved a good start to the season for his panel, getting four games under their belt. “It was a typical pre-
It’s followed by hurling presentation
appointment of Tipperary native
night in the club.
Aidan Lonergan as our senior hurl-
Our junior hurling league cham-
ing manager. The Rosegreen club man
pions will be presented with their
was part of the management set-up
medals and hurlers of the year will be
that took St Francis College, Cork, to
announced. All welcome.
last.
Paul Schutte, Sinead Goldrick, Johnny Cooper and Ali Twomey launching Dublin’s 2016 season. Picture: Ramsey Cardy
season game,” he said after the tie. “I thought Longford looked very fit and mobile for January and they fully deserved their victory, playing some very good football. “But it has been a great workout for the Dublin football team as well. We tried our very best and I couldn’t but commend the efforts of the Dublin players. It wasn’t good enough against a very good Longford team. “We had a few chances when there was a point in it; we hit the post and a few shots went wide but that is not to take
WE ARE delighted to announce the
the Dr Harty Cup final in February
football: gavin’s side struggle in semi-final
O’Byrne cup semi
Club Noticeboard
away from Longford who bounced back and finished the game off quite comprehensively so all credit to them. “We got four good games, tried a lot of players and gave them an opportunity to stake a claim for the National Football League panel.” On the day, Longford always looked slightly on top, a few days after their boss Denis Connerton described the current Dublin crop as “some of the best players of all time”. T he third-division side led 0-7 to 0-4 after a turgid first half, with
the capital side outscrapped in front of a noisy home crowd, with Dean Rock and Johnny Cooper falling short of their usual standards, and Con O’Callaghan failing to build on an impressive showing last time out. Longford were not to be denied, however, with Liam Connerton’s only score of the game – a well-taken goal – rallying the home side. Longford outscored the Dubs in the closing minutes to pull away, and earn a shot at a first O’Byrne Cup title since 2000.
We’re delighted and excited to announce Round Tower GAA Club
We are now seeking personnel to
proudly presents The Kube. Taking
assist Aidan and the management
place Wednesday, March 16 in the Red
team with logistics. If you can help,
Cow Moran Hotel, it promises to be a
please contact Podge Byrne at 086
brilliant club night.
6048546. Thank you to the outgoing
And now we’re putting the call out
management team of Emmet Carroll,
to all our teams – juvenile and senior –
John Hoolan and Pat Lawless for their
footballers, hurlers and camogs. Who
excellent commitment and dedication
will be representing your team at The
to our senior hurlers.
Kube? Participation is exclusive to
Membership for 2016 is now due.
Round Tower members and excellent
Adult, family, minor, student, OAP
prize money will be made available
and juvenile membership options are
for winning participants to support
available. Register in the club or by
their preferred team/teams. Inter-
visiting the front page of our website
ested in signing up? Contact Matt on
and clicking the membership option.
087 6836737.
Clondalkin follows Operation
Club President Tommy Keogh’s
Transformation continues Monday
auctioned Clondalkin Canvas fetched
and Wednesday nights with 3km and
€135, with the winning bid coming from
5km walks from Monastery Road at
Robert Errity, living in Canada. Thanks
7.30pm sharp. Weigh in is on Mondays
to Tommy, Robert and all who bid.
from 6.30pm. We’re into the first full
January 11 lotto: the jackpot was
week of the walks so plenty of time to
€10,000; numbers drawn were 8,19, 23
register and participate. Register to
and 28, the bonus ball was 1. There was
participate online.
no overall winner and no bonus ball
The Tommy Curran Memorial Cup
winner; three €100 winners: Brock,
will be played this Saturday at the All-
Peter Nyhan and Janet Hazell. Thanks
Weather playing pitch at Monastery
to all who participated. Remember,
Road. Two club sides will compete in a
you can play our lotto online for as
10-a-side game. All welcome to attend.
little as €2 per week.
ST pat’s palmerstown THE lotto numbers for this week were
Mullins and Pauline Leonard. €20 each
10, 18, 24 and 28; there was no winner
should be a great night, all welcome.
so next week’s jackpot will be €7,800.
If you would like to place an add in
The draw takes place in the Palm-
the programme or make a donation
erstown House every Sunday night at
please contact any of us and we can
10pm and tickets cost €2.
arrange. Big thanks to Moriarty’s
Thank you to all our sellers and to all that support our lotto every week.
SuperValu for their sponsorship on this event.
Tickets available from all the usual
Well done to all the St Pat’s camogie
sellers including SuperValu, Palmers-
girls who took part in the U-15 Dublin
town House, Manor Hair Studios and
development squad trials in Parnell’s
in the clubhouse from 7-8pm on Tues-
GAA Club on Sunday.
day and Thursday.
Member ship is now due and
There are a only few places left to
remains unchanged from last year.
take part in The Kube. This is a joint
Membership forms will be posted to
fundraiser with St Pat’s and Our
all members in the coming weeks.
Lady’s Hospital Crumlin Cardiac
Membership can be paid on Tuesday
Unit.
and Thursday 7-8pm in the club-
The fundraising event is taking
house.
place in Westmanstown sports and
Ticket orders are now being taken
conference centre on February 12.
for the spring series. Please place
If you would like to take part, please
your order by Thursday, January 21
contact any of the ticket sellers below
at 12 noon by emailing the secretary
to sign up.
address or by texting the hotline on
Tickets are available now from Aidan Glennon, Robert Carson, Ronan
086 725 5586. All orders will be acknowledged.
GazetteSPORT all of your clondalkin sports coverage from page 28-31
january 21-27, 2016
on the charge: Clonettes produce superb showing shooting the lights out: Dublin clubs make big moves to see off New Ross and rise off bottom of table P30 in basketball leagues P28
Twomey hails Ryan role Lucan Sarsfields’ Ali Twomey at the AIG launch of the Dublin GAA season. Picture: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
Lucan Sarsfields’ camogie star says rise of 12th Lock club owes much to work of key mentor as the code continues to rise on Dublin scene nathan kelly
sport@dublingazette.com
THE year of 2015 was a strong one for Lucan Sarsfields. A first ever appearance in a Senior 1 county final; success in the Senior 1 Summer Cup and whole host of underage titles along the way. The year ended with 10 Sarsfields’ players involved in the annual Dubstars versus Dublin seniors with the club’s star Ali Twomey scoring 0-12 and being named player of the match in Dublin’s 3-17 to 3-5 win at Parnell’s. Speaking on the progression of the camogie section in Lucan, Twomey told GazetteSport at the AIG launch of the Dublin season that much of the credit belongs to senior manager
Liam Ryan. “I think the amount of Lucan players involved in the Dub Stars game was a really good reflection of the quality of camogie at the club,” she said. “A lot of it is down to Liam who has put in so much work over the years. He deserves so much of the credit; it’s down to him that everyone stays interested in playing for the club and keeps up the training and so on.” A regular on the Dublin senior panel for the past few seasons, Twomey played little part as Ryan’s side won the Summer Cup but insists it was an important bit of success for the panel. “We had a good summer. The Summer Cup would allow any girls who aren’t playing at intercounty level to continue playing over
the summer and it was really good for us,” she said. “It really helped the team develop because there were girls playing who wouldn’t normally probably get full games. So they were getting to play full matches and were standing out and being allowed express themselves and gain crucial experience. “That brought the team on as a whole when it did come down to it in the championship as we were able to bring on girls who were well able for it. It built a lot of the girls’ confidence and that’s important in a team that is still so young,” added Twomey. It may be a young Lucan side and the St Joseph’s College graduate is still in her developing years too but she spoke with a sense of
leadership when reflecting on their Dublin championship final replay loss to Vincent’s last October. “It was our first ever county final at senior level and the added experience gained for some of the girls I just mentioned really helped us,” she said. “I know it’s tough to lose but I think in the long run looking back, if we had of won it straight away in our first final, we might not have gained as much experience as we will from drawing the first game and having to prepare for the replay just days later. “Being such a young team, I know it sounds awful, but I think we’ll benefit more from losing than we would have from winning in this case.”