Clondalkin

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FEB 23 - MAR 1, 2017

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Emotional scenes as John meets Bonnie & Valerie for very first time

 SYLVIA POWNALL A 90-YEAR-OLD man was moved to tears last week after meeting his two half sisters for the first time.

John Clarke, from Convent View Cottages on the Boot

Road, had two very special visitors from the UK – Bonnie Stanford and Valerie Hipkiss.

John was born in 1926 and was placed in St Kevin’s orphanage and hospital as a child. He was placed in a foster home in Clondalkin in

1932 and never left the area.

He found out he had six half brothers and half sisters after a genealogist helped trace his family tree. John suffered a stroke over Christmas and his siblings resolved to fly over to meet him.

Brother-in-law Tom, who helped organise the reunion, said: “It was very emotional.

They brought photos of their mother Mary and exchanged stories and got to catch up.”

Continued on Page 4

2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 February 2017

ST CUTHBERT’S PARK | ORIGINAL PLAN CHANGED AFTER SURVEY

FASTNews

night to help Major housing boost as 63 Fundraising bring Noel Gentles home social houses are approved  SYLVIA POWNALL A DEVELOPMENT of 63 rapid build permanent social houses at an infill site at St Cuthbert’s Park, off Lealand Road in Bawnogue, has been approved by South Dublin County Council.

The local authority amended its original plan for 59 three-bed family units to include a number of units suitable for single people following the results of a community survey carried out by Sinn Fein.

Deputy Eoin O Broin (SF) welcomed news that the council was taking some of the recommendations – including improved security at St Cuthbert’s Park to tackle anti-social

behaviour – on board.

Deputy O Broin said: “Sinn Fein conducted a detailed door-to-door survey of the 181 surrounding houses in Lealand, Lindisfarne and Melrose.

“A total of 147 households completed the survey representing a response rate of 81 per cent. We also met with Deansrath Community College and sought comment from other relevant community groups.

“On the basis of the detailed comments received from residents, Sinn Fein made a submission to the Part 8 planning process outlining 30 specific changes or additions to the proposal dealing with a wide range of issues.

“A number of issues

dealt with build heights and densities and access to existing laneways and gates.

“The single biggest concern of residents was anti-social behaviour in the park and the need for addition measures to address these problems including public lighting, new boundary wall treatment and increased council and garda resources on the ground.”

An amended plan was passed at last week’s council meeting. A parallel process of developing a plan to ‘reclaim’ the park has also been put in place, along with a commitment that it will be up and running before the housing development opens.

Deputy O Broin said:

“The 63 three-bed and one-bed houses will provide much-needed homes to families in great need.

“The council must also be mindful that the

success of this housing development lies with the quality of the construction, the management of the tenanting process and the long term gain for the wider community.”

A night on the town OPERATION Transformation host Kathryn Thomas and leader Sean Daly enjoyed a Valentines night out at Dublin gay-bar The George. Sean said: “Myself and Kathryn went to the George, it was a great night. I always knew she was a bit special but when you get her on the dance floor - the two of us just let rip! It was my first ever time to go to the George as I never put myself in the scenario of being in a gay bar.”

DFB workers support strike A ROW over whether the Dublin Fire Brigade should have its call-taking and dispatch service transferred to the HSE’s new National Ambulance Service may cause strike action in the coming weeks.

Workers at Dublin Fire Brigade have voted ove r w h e l m i n g l y i n favour of strike action in a row over plans to break up the ambulance and dispatch service.

97% of SIPTU workers voted for the industrial action. If the plans go ahead it will see DFBs ambulance service dispatched to the National Ambulance Service in Tallaght.

TD John Curran (FF)

said that he fully supports the retention of emergency ser vices provided by DFB and added: “DFB have a long, excellent history of patient centred care and best practice. In fact, in a submission made to the EU Court of Justice, it was suggested that the model of emergency response which is ‘concentrated in one public body’ is an advantage in terms of health and public safety.

He said that by removing DFBs fire based EMS system, it would mean that there would be an adverse effect on the safeguarding of the community.

A NIGHT of musical theatre takes place at the Red Cow this Sunday, February 26, in aid of Noel Gentles. Noel was diagnosed with cancer in March 2016 and is now in hospital in Boston fighting an aggressive infection.

Organisers are hoping the funds raised will help to get him healthy enough to make the journey home to be with his sisters and friends.

One of those behind the Night for Noel Gentles (Bring Him Home) event, Alice Hughes, said: “Noel has been unable to work since his diagnosis and his medical insurance only covered a portion of his treatment, so he is left with a hefty bill.

“Our goal is to raise enough funds to try and pay off as much as possible of his bill and pay to get him home to be with his family.”

Sunday’s performance will be presented by Simon Delaney and the cast features the Deirdre Browne Dancers, Brenda Brooks, Jean Byford, Eoin Cannon, Tony Carty, Kevin Fagin, Tony Finnegan, Sean Gilligan and his Showgirls and many more.

Further details on the John Player Tops Facebook page. For bookings contact 087 9982205.

Council only built 15 new houses from 2014-2016 JUST 15 new houses have been built by South Dublin County Council in the three years from 2014-2016.

The stark figure came to light at an area council meeting where members asked why there was such a delay in constructing new units.

In its reply SDCC admitted there were no houses built in either 2014 or 2015, with just 15 built in 2016 – 13 of them in Tallaght and the remaining two in Lucan. The local authority said a total of 11 housing projects – with the capacity to deliver 294 new homes – are with the Department of Housing awaiting cost approval. Final approval has been granted for two Clondalkin projects – 11 units at St Mark’s Green and 18 units at Mayfield Estate, both due to get under way this month.

Woman convicted of tampering with gas meter A SAGGART woman was fined €1,500 and ordered to pay €500 in costs after she was convicted of tampering with a gas meter.

Sarah Walker, with an address at Saggart Lakes, Saggart, was found guilty of the dishonest use of gas by Judge John Brennan at the district court sitting in the Four Courts.

Gas Networks Ireland, in presenting its evidence, said the offence took place at a detached property in a gated development with neighbouring properties in close proximity.

The unauthorised meter – which had been reported missing from another Saggart property in 2012 – was discovered at the property and the whereabouts of the meter originally installed by Gas Networks Ireland remains unknown.

Judge Brennan highlighted the serious nature of the offence and its “potential catastrophic effect” for the accused and her children, and neighbours.

23 February 2017 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3

 EMMA NOLAN

Bus driver Christy Carey did Dublin – and Ireland – proud when he swapped his normal route driving the No27 bus for a sixteen-year-old banger in Nepal. Photos: RTE

DUBLIN has fallen in love with local hero Christy Carey who swapped the 27 bus for the chaos of Kathmandu for RTE’s The Toughest Place To Be. The dad of three from Ballyfermot endured nightmare conditions in the poverty-stricken Nepalese capital, where he drove a 16-year-old bus through treacherous, quake damaged roads. Despite the difficulties, Christy, 41, remained cheerful throughout and Dublin took to Twitter to heap praise on the “massive legend” after Monday night’s episode.

Christy was so moved by the people he met and the hardship he saw, that since returning to Dublin he has set up a charity to support the people of Nepal. What a legend!

4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 February 2017

SPECIAL VISITORS | GENEALOGIST HELPS TRACE FAMILY MEMBERS

John (90) reconnects with his half sisters  FROM PAGE 1 John’s mother Mary Clarke gave birth to him outside marriage and cared for her first-born son at St Kevin’s for the first 14 months of his life before moving to the UK. She went on to marry Arthur Lockley and the couple had six children – Joyce, Arthur, Brian, Judith, Bonita (Bonnie) and Valerie.

John married his late wife Betty in 1958 and the couple had nine children. He enlisted in the Army and late worked at Clondalkin Paper Mills until his retirement.

He played for Round Towers and later acted as a GAA referee for 20 years, and was a member of the local Fianna Fail Cumann.

John’s thoughts turned to his birth mother after his retirement but his birth certificate shed little

John with half sisters Bonnie and Valerie. Picture: Clondalkin Reunion Facebook page

light on his family roots.

His brother-in-law Tom set about helping him and after a few dud leads they enlisted the help of a genealogist in 2015 to sift through old records.

In June of last year it emerged that John’s mother had another family who lived in Birmingham and two months later the families connected via email.

The Lockleys were delighted to

make contact and with the help of his half brothers John has now traced cousins who are living in Dublin.

His brother-in-law Tom told the Evening Herald: “It has been a very long but incredible journey.

It was unbelievable and meant a lot to John.

“It’s fantastic that John has been able to reconnect with his sisters and find out so much about his family.”

Photographs from the happy event have been posted on the Clondalkin Reunion Facebook page, with an outpouring of support and congratulations.

Cllr Breda Bonner wrote: “Great news” while another man posted: “What a lovely gentleman. Always liked John from way back in the Mill days!! Best smile I know!”

FASTNews

Pals of murder victim Graham McKeever set up gofundme page PALS of murder victim Graham McKeever have set up a gofundme page to raise money for his family. Graham, 32, was stabbed several times in the chest at around 4.30am on Saturday after a row in the Deerpark estate in Tallaght. Tributes have been paid online with one stating: “Graham was tragically taken from his family early on Saturday morning.

Nothing will bring peace to his family but maybe as a community we can offer some support to help them through this difficult time.”

A man in his 40s was arrested and quizzed in relation to the killing. As of Tuesday afternoon a total of €645 of the target of €1,500 had been raised.

Charged with shotgun possession A WOMAN charged with possession of three shotguns and ammunition at her home in Clondalkin has been remanded for two weeks pending service of a book of evidence. Tracy Deegan, 41, with an address at Cherrywood Park, Clondalkin was before Judge David McHugh at Blanchardstown District Court.

She is charged with possession of eight 12-gauge Eley shotgun cartridges at her home address on February 17, 2016. She is also charged with possession of a Baikal 12-gauge double-barrel shotgun, a Reno 12-gauge double-barrel shotgun and a Winchester pump-action shotgun at the same address on the same date

23 February 2017 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5

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DUBLINGazetteGALLERY |

VINNY OSBORNE CELEBRATES HIS 50TH BIRTHDAY

ne Vinny and Vourneen McElwai

Birthday Boy Vinny with his wife Sharon Osborne at the Mercantile Pub. Pictures: AISHLING CONWAY

23 February 2017 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 7

IN STYLE WITH FRIENDS FROM THE MUSICAL THEATRE WORLD IN THE MERCANTILE PUB

The stage is set for a super birthday bash

G

LASNEVIN born Vinny Osborne celebrated his 50th birthday in style at the weekend surrounded by friends from the musical theatre world in The Mercantile in Dublin’s Dame St. Vinny toured for many years with Riverdance before returning home to set up his own sound company The Sound and Music Company. In 2005 he met wife Sharon whilst working on a production with Harold’s Cross Tallaght Musical Society. Now living in Maynooth, Vinny still travels the length and breath of the country making everyone sound good!

8 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 February 2017

APPEAL | HEARTBROKEN SISTER ISSUES A FRESH PLEA FOR INFORMATION Father

‘Please help to find our Esra before mam dies’  SYLVIA POWNALL THE heartbroken sister of a woman who vanished from her Clondalkin home six years ago has issued a fresh plea for information as their mother battles cancer.

Mum-of-one Esra Uryun, 38, was last seen leaving her home in Clondalkin on February 23, 2011.

Her older sister Berna Fidan, 51, has since led a tireless campaign in a desperate bid to find clues about her disappearance.

Berna returned to Dublin from her London home earlier this week to mark the sixth anniversary of Esra’s disappearance.

She said she is more desperate than ever to find answers so that her 73-year-old mother Neriman Fidan can “have closure before she dies”.

Mum-of-two Berna, who is of Turkish descent, said: “My mother is in a bad way at the moment and she’s just been diagnosed with breast cancer.

“She already had quite a lot of health issues before the diagnosis, including a stroke, diabetes, regular blood transfusions and problems with her liver.

“What this means is that

chemo is out of the question for her. We don’t know how much time she has left. But she’s trying to keep going so she can hear about Esra and find out what happened to her.

“She’s so upset about it and cries constantly, and is literally holding on to find out what happened to her baby. So it’s more urgent than ever we get some answers for my mum.”

Esra’s family believe she was abducted at some point between setting off from her family home and the discovery of her Renault Twango car in Bray later that morning. The keys of the car mysteriously turned up in a chipper in Neilstown a year later.

Although the vehicle was captured on CCTV in the Wicklow seaside town, the grainy footage has not shed light on the identity of the driver – who Esra’s family believe to be the abductor.

However, determined Berna said she refuses to give up hope and will keep putting up posters in a bid to get a breakthrough.

She said: “It’s been a very frustrating year. Effor ts to enhance the CCT V footage haven’t worked, but I have to keep going.”

Enterprising bunch launch a week of help for businesses

THE MINISTER for Jobs, Mary MitchellO’Connor, was on hand to help launch this year’s plans for Local Enterprise Week, which runs from March 5 10 11.

During the week, the country’s 31 local enterprise offices – including South Dublin LEO, and its experienced staff – will feature and promote a wide range of events for start-ups, aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses in their area, helping to drive economic and job growth in their communities.

Pictured with the minister are Mark Christal of Enterprise Ireland; Greg Swift, of the LEOs, and Paul Reid, member of the County and City Management Association’s economic, enterprise, community and culture committee. Picture: Leon Farrell

Esra with son Emin

threatened to break wife’s teeth with knuckleduster’ A FATHER threatened to break his wife’s teeth with knuckle-dusters when he held her at gunpoint during a siege at her south Dublin home last week, a court heard.

William Harton, 40, with an address at Killinarden Estate, Tallaght was arrested following a four-hour stand-off with armed gardai and negotiators at the home of his wife, Amy Harton.

He was charged with falsely imprisoning her at Ballyogan Green, Sandyford, on February 16 under Section 15 of the NonFatal Offences Against the Person Act. He is further charged with contravening a barring order on the same date, and breaching the same order three days earlier on February 13.

He appeared before Judge John Lindsay at Dublin District Court last Friday.

Gardai objected to bail on the grounds of the seriousness of the incident, fears that Mr Harton would interfere with witnesses and fears for their safety.

Gardai arrived at about 11.30am and heard a woman scream after a neighbour reported seeing the accused kick in Mrs Harton’s front door.

Garda Michael Murphy alleged the accused produced a handgun to the window.

Mrs Harton was released after about one and a half hours and the defendant left the house at around 3.20pm.

Mr Harton has not yet entered a plea. Granting legal aid, Judge Lindsay refused bail and remanded him in custody to appear at Cloverhill District Court tomorrow (Fri).

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23 February 2017 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9

INQUEST | NOEL KIRWAN HELD PARTNER’S DAUGHTER’S HAND AS HE DIED

Court hears slain feud victim’s dying moments

 SYLVIA POWNALL THE daughter of Noel Kirwan’s partner held his hand and spoke to him in his dying moments, an inquest has heard.

The 62-year-old suffered multiple gunshot wounds as he sat in the driver’s seat of his car three days before Christmas last year.

T h e f a t h e r- o f - t wo died from the injuries he suffered when he was shot outside his house on St Ronan’s Drive, Clondalkin.

An inquest into his death, which opened at Dublin Coroner’s Court last week, heard heartbreaking details of his dying moments.

The coroner was also told that there was no post-mortem result available.

Mr Kirwan’s two children, Donna and Kristopher, were present in court along with his partner Bernadette Roe’s daughter Carolyn Murray. Ms Roe, who was present at the scene of the shooting, was not in court.

It was around 5pm when Mr Kirwan was shot several times as he sat in his Ford Mondeo at St Ronan’s Drive, where he lived with his partner.

Gardai believe his killing is linked to the ongoing Hutch-Kinahan feud – and that he may

have been targeted by the Kinahan gang in a bid to lure Gerry “The Monk” Hutch back to Ireland.

Mr Kirwan was an old friend of Gerry Hutch and attended the funeral of his taxi driver brother Eddie Hutch last February.

Carolyn Murray spoke to Garda Mark Grant, of Ronanstown Garda Station, in the aftermath of Mr Kirwan’s shooting.

In her statement, read to the court, she said: “I said I was holding Noel’s hand, talking to him. I identified him and told him he lived at St Ronan’s Drive in Clondalkin.”

Garda Grant, who was on duty in a patrol car in Ronanstown on Decem-

Noel Kirwan with Gerry “The Monk” Hutch

ber 22, confirmed that Mr Kirwan was identified to him by Ms Murray.

Inspector Colm Healy sought an adjournment of the inquest as he said gardai were continuing their investigation into Mr Kirwan’s death.

“There is an ongoing investigation and inquiries continue into Mr Kirwan’s untimely death,” Inspector Healy told the court.

Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane adjourned the inquest until August 22.

Burglar fell to his death from roof , inquest hears GARDAI believe a man found dead in the back garden of a vacant property fell from a Velux window on the roof while involved in a robbery, an inquest has heard.

The body of Michael Geraghty, 47, from Michael Collins Park, Clondalkin, was discovered behind a terrace of vacant houses at Station Grove, off Station Road in Clondalkin on August 31, 2015.

His body was surrounded by tools, Garda Kieran O’Dwyer told Dublin Coroner’s Court. The discovery followed a spate of robberies and vandalism in the partially finished estate.

“It’s believed he climbed out through the skylight of number seven,” Garda Dwyer said. “I can only surmise he was in the property for the reason of taking items, he heard some noise that lead him to believe he’d been detected in the property.”

A boiler had been removed from a cupboard in the kitchen and was left on the counter top “ready to go”, the court heard.

Mr Geraghty died due to head, chest and limb trauma consistent with a fall from a height while intoxicated on a mix of anti-depressant and antianxiety medications and methadone, the inquest heard.

Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane returned a misadventure verdict.

10 GAZETTE 23 February 2017

DUBLINGazetteGALLERY |

THE AUDI DUBLIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Laura Keown, Sorcha Fitzgerald and Tra My

Mary Murphy McCrink and David Cox

Molly Walsh, Deirdre Spratt, Lulu Walsh, Ella Walsh and Will Walsh. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Antonia Campbell-Hughes

Mary Young Leckie and Heather Haldane

Festival launch is a right blockbuster T

HE Audi Dublin International Film Festival kicked off with a premiere screening of internationally acclaimed new film Maudie. The 10 day event brings an array of top talent to Dublin to present a first look at the best films from around the world and the key Irish films from the year ahead. The festival runs until February 26. Check out the full programme and ticket information at diff.ie.dasdasdasdsd

Actors Moe Dunford and Kerry Fox

Alan Moloney, Mary Young Leckie, Susan Mullen, Aisling Walsh and Heather Haldane

23 February 2017 GAZETTE 11

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Jordan Kenna and Leslie Walsh

Amy Joyce Hastings and Graham Cantwell

Alanna Finnerty and Orlaith Finn

Niamh Burke Kennedy and Sabina Higgins

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12 GAZETTE 23 February 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS

UCD spinout OncoMark raises €2.1m in funding

Pictured at NexusUCD are Cronan McNamara,

 EMMA NOLAN

CEO, Creme Global and Philip Sharpe, CEO, Sonalake

CeADAR strenghtens its board with three new appointees

THREE new board members have been appointed to the UCD-led Centre for Applied Data Analytics Research (CeADAR).

CeADAR is a technology centre which conducts programmes of applied research, of commercial interest to specific sectors.

Now, three new board members have been added.

They are: Cronan McNamara, Professor Stefanie Lindstaedt, and Philip Sharpe.

Cronan McNamara is the CEO of Crème Global, a data analytics company.Professor Stefanie Lindstaedt is the CEO of Know-Center, Austria’s research centre for data-driven business and big data analytics and Philip Sharpe is the CEO of Sonalake, a product development software company.

All three have said they are delighted to join the board.

Small Irish company wins contract to supply English teachers IN a major win for a small Irish company, Premier TEFL has just won an international contract to supply 70 native English teachers to Thai schools.

Following the announcement applications opened immediately for the posts where successful candidates will teach English to Thai children of primary and secondary school age.

The short contract commitment and high-pay has sparked a lot of interest from Ireland already.

Ian O’Sullivan, co-founder of Premier TEFL, who specialise in English teacher training and short term teaching abroad says: “This new contract is fantastic news for anyone who would like to work abroad but doesn’t know where to start.

“Since no teaching experience is needed, any English speakers who meet the requirements of the four month job contract can apply.”

Applications will close March 31st,or sooner if all positions have been filled.

To find out more about this paid job abroad visit www.premiertefl.com.

ONCOMARK, a UCD spin-out company, has secured €2.1 million in funding from Kernal Capital.

OncoMark is focused on the development of novel panels of cancer biomarkers, to aid treatment decisions and allow more tailored patient management, ultimately improving the quality of life for cancer patients.

This investment round will fund the commercialisation of OncoMark’s lead product, Onco MasTR, which it plans to launch in 2018.

OncoMasTR is a novel prognostic test for earlystage breast cancer that will reduce the number of breast cancer patients receiving unnecessary

Pictured at NovaUCD are Dawn Walsh, Kernel Capital; Des O’Leary, CEO, OncoMark; Professor William Gallagher, Director, UCD Conway Institute and co-founder, OncoMark; Deirdre Glenn, Manager, Lifesciences Sector, Enterprise Ireland and Kevin Healy, Senior Manager, Corporate Banking Ireland, Bank of Ireland.

Picture: Nick Bradshaw, Fotonic

chemotherapy.

CEO Des O’Lear y explained that most early stage breast cancer

patients are treated with chemotherapy despite many not benefiting from the treatment, thus expos-

ing them to severe side effects.

The OncoMasTR test is “designed to enable

a more personalised approach to patient care, helping clinicians to determine which patients should not receive chemotherapy, ultimately improving their quality of life”.

Mr O’Leary also said that the company will now be able to employ more staff with the funding.

Orla Rimmington, Partner, Kernel Capital said: “OncoMark aims to prevent early stage breast cancer patients’ exposure to ineffective treatment and needless toxicity.

“Kernel Capital are delighted to have led this investment in OncoMark, with its genomic assessment test, based on pioneering research led by Professor William Gallagher.”

Promoting a healthy workplace EMPLOYERS in Dublin are being urged to sign up for Ireland’s third National Workplace Wellbeing Day in March.

Last year over 300 companies of all sizes from across the public and private sectors participated in the annual event which aims to improve employee wellbeing through promoting better exercise and nutrition in the workplace.

Marcella Corcoran Kennedy, Minister for State for Health Promotion launched this

year’s campaign, which is an initiative of Food and Drink Industry Ireland (FDII), and is supported by Ibec.

Speaking at the launch, Danny McCoy, CEO, Ibec said: “As a nation, we all know that we need to get healthier. There is no better place to start than in the workplace, where we spend so much of our time.

“Research amongst employees in Ireland shows that the majority are more likely to stay longer with employers who show an interest in their

Danny McCoy CEO, Ibec; Minister for State for Health Promotion, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy and Anne Heraty, President of Ibec and CEO, CPL Limited. Picture: Naoise Culhane

health and wellbeing.”

He added: “We’re encouraging companies across the length and breadth of the country to mark Friday, 31st March with some healthy and fun workplace initiatives.

No matter how big

or small the event, a fitness class, a cookery demo, or a health check for example, the important thing is that it gets employees thinking about their health. The more adventurous can tackle the ‘Lunchtime

Mile’ where staff run, jog or cycle one mile in the vicinity of the workplace. Here in Ibec we’re hosting a healthy breakfast and walking the Lunchtime Mile, which promises to be a fun day for all involved.”

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week

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DUBLINLIFE

23 February 2017 GAZETTE 13

ST PATRICK’S DAY: MODERN FESTIVAL TO FOCUS ON OUR CONTEMPORARY, MULTICULTURAL SOCIETY

Celebrate the Ireland we are  EMMA NOLAN

WE’RE less than a month away from one of the nation’s busiest days as plans for the 2017 St Patrick’s Festival are well under way.

This year, organisers say the festival will celebrate ‘Ireland You Are’ across four days and 30 events.

It will bring together 3,000 artists, musicians, dancers, poets and performers and will celebrate who we are, as a culturally diverse and complex society.

St Patrick’s Festival chief exec Susan Kirby said that the festival will “create a snapshot of contemporary Ireland through our

programme of creative cultural events”.

The actual parade itself – one of the traditional highlights of celebrations – promises to be a manifestation of “the vision and talents of artists, designers and performers of all ages in response to the festival theme”.

Community groups and pageant companies from across Ireland will present variations of Irish heritage through a variety of performances and street theatre around such subjects as Ireland’s magical fairy stories, ancient mythical tribes, trailblazing pirates and the living landscape.

The March 17 parade will “wind through the heart of Dublin city bursting with colour, whimsical theatrics and lively musical scores from Irish and international bands alike”.

Susan added: “Being Irish today extends beyond these shores through our diaspora and through the new and emerging cultures in our country today.

Treasure Hunt “We want the 2017 programme to showcase an authentic picture of contemporary Ireland with an inspiring myriad of events that capture this moment in time.”

Other events taking place as

part of the celebration include this year’s treasure hunt in the city centre, the Dublin Bay Prawn Festival in Howth, and the Festival Big Day Out at Merrion Square.

Speaking at the launch of the festival, Dublin Lord Mayor Brendan Carr said that Dublin was “set for four really great days and nights from March 16 to 19”. He emphasised: “I invite people from Dublin and all around the country to engage with the programme – there truly is something for everyone to experience and enjoy.”

The full programme of events for St Patrick’s Festival is available at www.stpatricksfestival.ie.

Rebecca and Anabelle Johnson ignore Artastic Pageant’s Rachel Lalley and Piyanuch Chanphet) as they launched St Patrick’s Festival 2017. Picture: Robbie Reynolds

GAZETTE

14 GAZETTE 23 February 2017

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

Rare works in Ireland for the very first time GORMLEY’S Fine Art, one of Ireland’s leading art galleries, will host an exhibition of contemporar y international editions in March 2017, bringing rare works to an Irish audience for the very first time.

The exhibition will explore how contemporary art has developed from the 1950s to the present day, featuring important works by Andy Warhol, Banksy, Damien

Hirst, Keith Haring, Jeff Koons, Robert Indiana, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Bambi. It highlights works from a range of movements including Pop Art, Street Art, Neo Pop, Young British Artists and Urban Art. This exhibition opens on March 2 and runs until March 22 at Gormley’s, 27 South Frederick Street, Dublin 2. It features limited edition, original screen prints, including

nine Warhol pieces. Such works are rarely available to view in Ireland, let alone buy.

Oliver Gormley of Gormley’s Fine Art said: “We are genuinely excited to bring work by some of the world’s most highly renowned contemporary artists to Ireland. The exhibition opening will act as a launch pad for a wider program of events showcasing the work of international blue chip artists.

In particular, we plan to incorporate works by Warhol, Hirst, Banksy, Haring, Koons and Bambi into our regular gallery program.”

Entry to the exhibition is free and all work is available to purchase, with prices ranging from €2,000 to €190,000. For further information, visit www.gormleys.ie.

MAKE IT TO THE MID-TERM MOVIES ODEON Cinemas is delighted to announce that ODEON KIDS will run every day over the school holidays in all 11 ODEON cinemas nationwide. With lots of choice of films from new blockbusters to family favourite’s there is something for the whole family to enjoy.

With tickets costing only €2 each it’s the perfect excuse to take all the kids.

T h i s M i d -Te r m ODEON Cinemas has some great new films including Sing!

Also being released this February is the hotly anticipated Lego Batman movie, which will be popular with even the biggest kids in the family!

Not forgetting the most recent kids movies including the hugely popular Disney’s Moana, Trolls and Storks. With tickets for just €2 and a Family Mix food combo (2 x kids mix, 2 x medium drinks and 1 medium popcorn -€11.99). Kids screenings at ODEON are a great price and great value.

ODEON Cinemas are advising guests to book in advance to avoid disappointment and don’t forget there are no booking fee’s when you book with ODEON via the ODEON website: www.odeoncinemas.ie.

GET READY TO RUNAMUCK THE Runamuck Challenge is back this March and as always, the challenge will feature plenty of competitors, teams, mud, and obstacles, providing a messy and epic experience.

The challenge, which is taking place at Coolcarrigan Estate in Kildare on March 11, offers two different routes, a 5.5 km course and an 11km course, further allowing competitors to select their difficulty.

Organisers say the course acts as a “test of mental and physical strength”.

The event is a challenge designed to actually challenge competitors. However, the Runamuck team aims to make the event fun for all participants.

In turn, those who are unable to conquer certain obstacles will find that there are alternate and easier routes, making the entire event perfect for both first-timers and veterans. Visit runamuckchallenge.ie to register and find out more.

HUGH LANE SET TO SHOW RARE WORK A R ARE self-portrait by the Irish artist Frank O’Meara (1853 – 1888) has recently been acquired by Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane.

“Self Portrait” by Frank O’Meara is currently on view at the Gallery and forms part of the Frank O’Meara and Irish Artist Abroad exhibition.

The exhibition explores the work of artists who, influenced by innovative new developments on the continent, travelled

Madonna by Bambi

A work by Damien Hirst

abroad to develop their art practice.

“This is the only known self-portrait by this very important Irish artist and we are delighted to have acquired it for Dublin,” said Barbara Dawson, director at the Hugh Lane. The exhibition is on view at the Gallery until June 11.

PUTTING HOME GROWN BACK ON THE MENU DUBLIN community groups are invited to avail of start-up funding in order to set up and run their own Cottage Market.

The initiative is set to run across the country to the tune of €65,000 over the next two years with GIY (Grow It Yourself) aiming to put home-made, home-grown food and

craft back at the centre of Irish communities.

GIY is a not for profit social enterprise that inspires, trains and supports people to grow and cook their own food at home, school, work and in the community.

Community groups nationwide are now invited to apply online n ow a n d s u c c e s s f u l applicants will be awarded with a tailor made training programme, which will provide them with the skills they need in order to firmly place fresh homegrown and homemade food back into the hearts of rural communities.

The application form is available on thecottagemarket.ie and applications are open until March 3.

23 February 2017 GAZETTE 15

GAZETTE

FEATURE

HEALTH: SURVEY SUGGESTS MANY NEW MUMS DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO WHEN THEIR INFANT IS SICK

Babe, here’s help for fevers DR SINEAD BEIRNE’S TOP TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE FEVER MANAGEMENT

KNOW what constitutes a temperature: Your baby’s normal temperature range is between 36°c – 36.8°c. A fever is seen as a temperature over 37.8°c on more than one consecutive reading.

Cool baby down: Strip them to their vest and/ or place them in a bath of lukewarm water. This may actually help to reduce your child’s fever – make sure the water doesn’t get too cold.

Medicate at home: Ibuprofen can be given to babies over three months, or babies weighing over 5kg. Paracetamol can be used from two months.

Hydration is key: Keep the baby well hydrated with fluids. If they have been vomiting, you need to rehydrate slowly. Ice pops can be helpful too, as well as ice cream.

Sleep patterns: Try not to bundle your baby up in blankets or extra clothes at bed time. I suggest using a baby sleep bag and just one layer of light clothing, like a vest, so no need for pyjamas too.

Seeking help: If your baby is under three months and has a definite temperature, you should make arrangements to see a doctor.

If baby is over three months and their temperature stays above 38.5°c despite treatment, or rises to 39°c-40°c, and if a fever lasts longer than two days, see your doctor. However, your child should see a doctor if they have a spreading rash, headache, poor colour, limping, stiff neck or a reaction to bright light.

 EMMA NOLAN NEW mums in Dublin are unsure of what to do when their baby is sick – and almost half do not know what temperature a fever begins at.

According to a new survey undertaken by iReach for Nurofen has found that 27% of new mums lack an understanding of what to do when their baby is unwell, and often rely on friends and family for advice.

Research was carried out among 400 first-time mothers for Neurofen’s #FeverFighters campaign and some of the results are

worrying.

Almost one-third of new mums struggle to understand what their baby’s cry means – whether it’s hunger, tiredness or pain, firsttime mums find it difficult to identify what is causing the cry.

T he research also revealed that almost half of those surveyed (49%) do not know what temperature constitutes a fever (above 37.8°C) – a quarter thought it was lower, and 24% said it was above that figure.

In response to the survey’s findings, Nurofen for Children launches the #FeverFighters campaign

with TV presenter Lucy Kennedy as ambassador (who had her third child just before Christmas) and GP Dr Sinead Beirne.

Lucy said she understands how “stressful and worrying it is when your baby gets sick”, and added: “I think it’s hardest for first-time mums in particular.

“I remember it well, feeling very vulnerable and constantly questioning whether I was doing the right thing. The #FeverFighter campaign aims to equip mums with the information they need on how to effectively manage a fever at home.”

Don’t panic if baby seems to have a fever – stay calm, and follow our helpful advice about what to do next

16 GAZETTE 23 February 2017

23 February 2017 GAZETTE 17

FAMILY FUN | CROKE PARK LAUNCHES NEW JUNIOR EXPLORERS TOUR FROM THIS SATURDAY UNTIL THE SUMMER

For something old & something new Trim is the perfect wedding venue  SHANE DILLON COUPLES today simply do not just go for any venue.

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

The floor to ceiling windows of the ‘Great Hall’ banqueting suite and wonderful pre-function area allow a view of the castle and church lawns that is truly inspirational. The roof-top garden (above) located on the third floor provides the ultimate backdrop for your wedding photography, with spectacular views over the grounds of Trim Castle.

The Wedding Fair The Trim Castle Hotel ‘Wedding Fair’ will take place this Sunday, the 26th of February from 3-6pm and

is the perfect day to view this truly magical Wedding Venue. ‘The Great Hall’ banqueting suite will be fully set for a Wedding on the day and there will be an array of suppliers in attendance.

The Team At Trim Castle Hotel, the team aspire to make your wedding day the most memorable and enjoyable day of your life. They have a number of Wedding Packages beautifully designed to suit every couple.

The Wedding Team assures you of personal and professional attention in the planning and preparation of your special celebration.

As you step on to the red carpet, the Team at Trim Castle Hotel will ensure that your wishes are granted and your expectations excelled….

For further information, please contact the hotel’s wedding team on 046-9483000 or email info@trimcastlehotel.com.

Web: www.trimcastleweddings.com or www.trimcastlehotel.com

The wonders of Croke Park and its historic Hill 16 aren’t lost on Kyle Doyle (6) and Eabha Scully (7)

 EMMA NOLAN ATTENTION weekend early risers!

The GAA Museum at Croke Park is launching a new Junior Explorers Tour for young families every Saturday morning from this weekend until the end of April.

The tour has been created to bring to life the magic of the home of Gaelic games for younger visitors.

On arrival, your family will be greeted by the Museum’s mascot, Cluasóg the Irish hare, who will pose for photos and get everyone excited

about the adventure ahead.

Next you will go in behind-the-scenes at the famous stadium and learn fun facts about the GAA and Croke Park.

During the stadium tour, your little ones will get to live the dream – and visit the team dressing rooms and warm-up areas and run out pitchside through the players’ tunnel.

Back at the GAA Museum, children will then receive a Junior Explorer Passport so they can follow clues throughout the museum with their tour guide.

They’ll discover some of the museum’s most famous exhibits including the original Sam Maguire and Liam MacCarthy cups along the way.

If the group find all the clues... all younger visitors will receive a special Junior Explorer badge!

Another highlight for many boys and girls (and mums and dads!) is the museum’s Interactive Games Zone, where you can test your own hurling and football skills – see how fast your family can react, check your passing skills and practice a fingertip save or the art of the high catch!

Junior Explorer Tours are recommended for all family members but will be of particular interest for children of 8 years of age and under. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Tours depart from the GAA Museum on February 25th at 10.30 and will continue every Saturday morning until April 29th.

Junior Explorer tours will last around 1.5 hours (including time in the museum and a meet and greet with Cluasóg) and the route is fully accessible for buggies.

Advance online booking is recommended. Free

parking is available, as well as the museum’s Blackthorn Café.

The GAA Museum and Croke Park Stadium Tour are listed as two of the top 5 things to do in Dublin on Trip Advisor.

Croke Park has been at the heart of Irish sporting and cultural life for over 100 years, so it really is a must for every Irish family.

See www.crokepark.ie/ juniorexplorer Tour prices: Adult: €14 Children (ages 3 – 12): €9 Under 3 years: Free of charge Students & Seniors: €11 Family (2 adults & 2 children): €38 Family (2 adults & 3 kids): €40

Live the dream and run down the tunnel to the hallowed Croke Park pitch

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 23 February 2017

DUBLINLIFE

FOOD

Deliciously decadent Chocolate and Baileys Cake with Tia Maria Mousse Part 1 Baileys & Chocolate Tart l 225g Dark Chocolate l 180g Butter l 225g Castor Sugar l 6 Eggs l 100g Flour l 38g Cocoa Powder

75ml Baileys 75g Crushed Hazelnuts l 1 Vanilla Bean l l

Method Pre heat the oven to 160c.

Melt the butter and choc-

olate together over a pot of simmering water, make sure the bowl does not touch the water.

Whisk the eggs and sugar in a mixer until light and fluffy, this will take about 8 minutes. In the mean-

time, scrape the vanilla pod and add to the egg mixture.

Once the eggs are whisked, add the flour, cocoa and chocolate mixture little by little, folding in gently.

Add the baileys and crushed hazelnuts and pour onto a prepared, silicone paper tray. Bake for 20 minutes and place on a wire rack until cool.

Part 1 Tia Maria Mousse l 200g milk chocolate l 100g butter l 200ml Tia Maria reduced by half to 100ml l 6 egg yolks l 100g icing sugar l 100ml cream l 5 gelatine sheets l 550ml cream l ½ vanilla pod Method Melt the butter and

chocolate, same as for the cake mix, whisk the cream and vanilla seeds to soft peaks and leave until needed.

Whisk the egg yolks and sugar until pale and fluffy.

Warm the 100ml of cream gently and add the soaked gelatine leaf. Mix until dissolved.

Gently fold in the chocolate mix to the egg mix, add the gelatine mix and then gently fold in the cream mix. Place in a bowl and refrigerate until set. To serve portion the cake mix and spoon or pipe the mousse mix on top. Garnish with fresh berries. Recipe courtesy of Neal Kearns, Executive Head Chef at Castleknock Hotel and Country Club. For more information see www. castleknockhotel.com

JACK DANIEL’S BAR SLIDE TRAVELS TO NEW LOCATIONS

17% rise in complaints The Food Safety Authority of Ireland’s (FSAI) Advice Line received 3,202 complaints by consumers relating to food, food premises and food labelling in 2016. The figure represents a total increase of 17% on 2015 (when 2,739 complaints were received), with the number of complaints about food poisoning up considerably at 45%.

Poor hygiene standards were the second highest reported, with an increase of 34%, as compared with 2015, while complaints about incorrect information on food labelling were up 15%. The number of complaints about unfit food was up 7%, when compared with 2015.

Edel Smyth, Information Manager at FSAI said: “The statistics from our Advice Line service continue to show an upward trend with consumers expressing much more concern and being more conscious about the food they consume. They are also increasingly vigilant about food safety issues.

We continue to encourage anyone who has had a bad food safety experience to report the matter to the FSAI so that the issue can be dealt with.”

The FSAI Advice Line can be reached at info@ fsai.ie or through the ‘make a complaint’ section of the FSAI website.

Keep mussel tradition alive DID you know 75% of the 15,000 tonnes of mussels that Ireland produces are exported every year?

In good news, however, figures released by Kantar this month show that the Irish mussels market has increased by 21.4% to just over €1m, which has been largely driven by new shoppers buying into the segment and increased frequency of purchase.

Bord Bia want to build further onto this success and has launched its 2017 #FlexYourMusselsCampaign which will take run until Monday February 26.

The campaign aims to instil confidence in Irish consumers to buy and prepare mussels to eat at home.

Bord Bia have developed a suite of quick and easy-to-prepare mussels recipes including the classic Moules Marinieres, Chili and Garlic Flavoured Mussels, and Mussels with Pak Choi and Bean Sprouts.

Recipe videos and a specially created ‘how to prepare mussels’ video are available to view on the Bord Bia website and You Tube channel.

For tips, videos and recipe inspiration, check out www.bordbia.ie/fish and #FlexYourMussels

JACK Daniel’s have announced even more new Dublin dates for its Bar Slide experience this weekend with the first event happening in East Side Tavern on Thursday, February 23 between 7.30pm and 8.30pm.

Whiskey lovers can take a load off and try their luck with the bar slide while enjoying a complimentary Jack and Ginger, Jack and Cola, or sip a Jack on the rocks! The Bar Slide will also visit The George on February 23, Lafayette, Sin É, Wright’s Café Bar and Hogs and Heifers on February 24th and The Grand Social on February 25.

For more information on the Jack Daniel’s Bar Slide competition and details on locations and upcoming dates visit: https://www.facebook.com/ jackdanielsireland/

23 February 2017 GAZETTE 19

MAKE STYLE STATEMENTS WITH COS’S NEW LINES

Round Neck T-Shirt €15; Wool Trousers with Drop Crotch €89

Help is at hand to get lovely white teeth  EMMA NOLAN

THE difference white teeth make to your face is unbelievable.

Effective teeth-whitening products are hard to come by in Ireland, and for a long time I relied on friends who lived in America to bring me back Crest Whitening Strips to keep my coffee- and red winestained smile at bay.

Finally, an Irish teethwhitening product that actually works: Spotlight Teeth Whitening is an over-the-counter home whitening kit, the first of its kind in Europe, and containing small amounts of hydrogen peroxide.

This is the active ingredient in professional whitening products, making it a highly-effective treatment without the high cost of in-chair whitening systems.

The product was created by Dr Lisa and Vanessa Creaven, two Irish sisters who spotted a gap in the European teeth whitening market (thank God). The strips are easy to use and there is a noticeable difference after a few uses.

A kit costs €39.99, available in pharmacies nationwide or online at spotlightwhitening. com.

GAZETTE

STYLE

 EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

Milano Knit Vest €49; Pleated Wrap-Over Skirt €89

FOR Spring/Summer 2017, Cos has focused on Bold Details & Silhouettes – its new collection.

This focus introduces a relaxed colour palette of classic navy, crisp white and earthy brown tones in contrast with statement silhouettes.

True to Cos style, this collection exemplifies peak refinement – angular and practical, shape is the star of the show as the muted palette takes a back seat, emphasising the simplicity at its core.

Stand-out pieces include the Wrap Over Canvas Dress for €79 and the Wool Crepe Blazer for €139.

The line is stocked in Cos stores in Dublin and is also available online at cosstores.com.

Oversized Raglan Sleeve Sweatshirt €49; Relaxed Crepe Wool Trousers €89

Oversized Parka €175; Straight-Fit Cropped Jeans €69; Soft Leather Shopper €125

Shirt With Grandad Collar €69; Leather Strap Cuff €35

Wrap-Over Canvas Dress €79; Straight Canvas Trousers €69

GAZETTE

20 GAZETTE 23 February 2017

DUBLINLIFE

PRETTY, CHARMING AND TRANQUIL, NERJA HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Above and below: Villages on the Costa del Sol don’t come much more picturesque than Frigiliana

The Balcon de Europa is the focal point of the town, affording magnificent views up and down the coast

 SYLVIA POWNALL

The magnificent Cuevas de Nerja

IF the phrase ‘no carbs before Marbs’ delivered with a TOWIE twang is what you think of when you hear Costa del Sol, then maybe you should think again.

Leave the bling and the boisterous nightlife behind and take a 30-mile drive west of Malaga airport instead to discover the charming fishing town of Nerja.

Known as the hidden gem of Andalucia, the town is a picture postcard come to life and it’s easy to see how its breathtaking scenery inspired one of Picasso’s paintings.

Despite enjoying a healthy tourist trade it manages to remain relatively untouched by the hustle and bustle typical of other resorts along Spain’s southern coastline.

Wandering through Nerja’s twisting cobbled streets it’s tempting to stop at every pretty restaurant and friendly tapas bar.

Nerja is one of the best places in Spain to go on a tapas crawl. Start off in El Nino - where two glasses of house red and a selection of tapas will set you back the princely sum of €4!

Next it’s on to La Tasquita – an impressive looking establishment in a triangular building at the junction of Calle Gloria and Calle Cristo.

Further down Calle Gloria is Redondo – named after the circular bar at which there are no less than 24 different tapas laid out.

Finish the evening off in Cerveceria El Pulguilla – which has a reputation for serving what are possibly the best seafood tapas in all of Spain.

The view from atop the Parador Hotel has only one

23 February 2017 GAZETTE 21

Discover the hidden gem of Andalucia

Beaches don’t come much more picturesque than Calahonda beach

Paella is cooked and served straight from a gigantic fire-scorched pan at beachside restaurant Ayo

Above and below: The Lost Village of El Acebuchal boasts spectacular scenery and great food

rival – the Balcon de Europe. The vantage point was so named by King Alfonso and a bronze statue of him still stares out to sea alongside cannons recalling the balcony’s earlier use as a defence during the Peninsular Wars.

The Balcon takes on a vibrancy all of its own after dark as tourists and locals linger under the palm trees and take in the street entertainment – from the couple performing the Argentine Tango to the artists creating caricature portraits in charcoal.

Burriana Beach is a mecca for sun lovers – and lovers of Spanish cuisine should check out Ayo. The beachside restaurant where paella is cooked and served straight from a gigantic fire-scorched pan is always packed to the rafters with locals and tourists alike – always a good sign.

Take a day trip to the magnificent Cuevas de Nerja, just five miles up the coast. The massive caverns of stalagmites and stalactites is believed to be the largest cave

GAZETTE

TRAVEL

system in Europe, and reaches all the way up to Granada.

It’s a sun worshipper’s paradise, but if you’re after something a bit more active there are plenty of hiking trails through the mountainside to nearby villages such as Frigiliana, Torrox and Acebuchal (known as the Lost Village).

Antequera, charming in its miniature scale but as rich in monuments and churches as a city, is best seen from the ‘hop-on, hop-off’ trolley bus. Choose from restaurants including Santiago (casual) and La Fuerza (gourmet).

Aer Lingus and Ryanair both fly direct to Malaga. Nerja is approximately a one-hour drive along the coastal motorway in the opposite direction to Marbella and Torremolinos.

GAZETTE

22 GAZETTE 23 February 2017

DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

Sales of hybrid cars are on the increase as Toyota celebrates producing more than 10 million of the eco-friendly vehicles over the past 2 two decades

Toyota hybrid sales pass the 10 million mark TOYOTA claims to have sold 10.5 million hybrid cars since production started 20 years ago. The Japanese car maker believes that this is more than a numerical milestone, as it demonstrates the staying power of a technology that it believes is now emerging as a mainstream solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants.

As of January 31, Toyota estimates that the use of Toyota’s HVs2 in lieu of conventional gasolinepowered vehicles of similar size and driving performance has resulted in approximately 77 million fewer tons3 of CO2 emissions and has saved approximately 29 million kilolitres of petrol.

Toyota now sells 33 different hybrid models in more than 90 countries and regions across the globe. Toyota in Ireland sold 296 Prius hybrid models in Ireland in 2016, along with 229 of the new C-HR model, and a smaller number of Auris and Yaris hybrid models, according to the latest Society of Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) data.

Incentives needed to drive move to electric cars LAST week the managing director for BMW Group Ireland, Paulo Alves, spoke at the Transport

Outlander does the business for Mitsubishi Small business owners look for value and flexibility in a commercial van, coupled with style and performance. That’s why many are making the choice of a commercial SUV as their transport mode, and Michael Moroney found that Mitsubishi’s Outlander Business ticks lots of business and comfort boxes.

SOME business decisions take time while others are obvious and almost spontaneous. The decision to buy a commercial SUV can take time from the point of view of tax saving advantages and business sense.

Once that decision is made, the choice of brand and model may seem obvious. Weighing up the costs and savings advantages of a commercial vehicle choice can often be a matter that demands a visit to your accountant.

That decision is sometimes it down to a delicate financial balance, while at other times it makes solid

business sense to go the commercial route with low road tax of €333 and low benefit-in-kind payments.

Either way you get the choices with the Mitsubishi Outlander range. Over recent months I’ve driven Mitsubishi’s impressive hybrid version of the Outlander which is the passenger choice. More recently, I’ve taken to the roads in the Outlander Business, this time powered by an impressive 2.2litre turbo-diesel engine.

There is a strong and solid feel to the Outlander Business. Its long wheelbase gives good on

road comfort making the vehicle pleasant to drive as I cruised across routes from Dublin to Waterford.

The 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine is responsive through the six-speed manual gearbox. With acceleration performance of 10.2 seconds for a 0 to 1200km/hr pace, this commercial SUV has pace enough for most situations from the torquey engine that delivers 380Nm of pulling power.

Out on the motorway it cruises comfortably at 120km/hr with the rev counter needle just sitting on the 2000rpm mark.

This ensures reasonable

and Climate Summit in Dublin and said that: “We are at a point where the technology is here for Irish drivers to switch to electric with cars such as the BMW i3 (94ah) that has a range on pure

Paulo Alves, Managing

electric mode of 200km

Director BMW Group

in everyday conditions.

Ireland

“Ireland has an impressive charging

tives to free city centre

network but other coun-

designated parking,

tries are more success-

free use of toll roads or

ful in bringing electric

Benefit in Kind (BIK) tax

vehicles to the streets,”

breaks for businesses, is

he said. “Our interna-

most effective to switch

tional experience shows

fleets to electric and

that a suitable mix of

could provide the critical

incentive policies, rang-

mass needed for Irish

ing from financial incen-

motorists to switch.”

The dash area on the Mitsubishi Outlander Business is the same as that on the passenger models with clear and easy to use controls

economy, especially on longer drives. I found that over a week of lengthy driving I notched up an economy figure that was about 20% off the rated figure of 19km/litre (5.3l/100km or 53mpg).

That’s a reasonable result for a mid-sized SUV with all of the four-wheel-drive features included and its helped by the smooth performing start/stop system for city driving.

4x4 suite

Mitsubishi offers its full suite of 4x4 systems in the Outlander Business version. These include 4WD lock, 4WD lock eco and 4WD auto. The choice is available at the touch of a button with clear indicators on the dash to tell you what choice you’ve made.

I used the eco mode most of the time to generate the best economy figures and stretch out the capacity of the Outlanders 60-litre fuel tank capacity.

This 4x4 system has some safety advantages, especially on the wet and muddy roads of a south Kilkenny winter. The Outlander also comes with an active stability control (ASC) system that gives traction control for better handling in poor road or off-road conditions. There

are seven airbags included along with an ABS braking system that includes electronic brake force distribution to give safer braking with a full load behind the solid mesh bulkhead. These combine to give the Outlander an impressive five-star rating in the EuroNCAP crash test system.

The load area to the rear is well protected and spacious. The use of the side doors and the hatchback boot opening gives good access for smaller items and tools. The floor is level and solid to give a load capacity of 2,068 litres, which converts to impressive van carrying space.

The Outlander Business comes with a two-tonne towing capacity, which is equivalent to others in the mid-SUV market.

The towing kit adds a little more to the €32,250 including VAT price list.

The Outlander comes with cloth covered seats that are easily adjustable and comfortable. The dash layout is modern and easy to use. The Out-

23 February 2017 GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

MOTORING

Renault Ireland has provided a brand-new 171 Renault Trafic 9-seater minibus to Inchicore’s Core Youth Service

The new generation Mitsubishi Outlander Business combines big load space with impressive driving performance and comfort.

Entry prices start at €32,250 including VAT.

Mitsubishi Outlander Business 2.2 DI-D

Fuel Tank Capacity CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Main Service Euro NCAP Rating Towing rating Warranty Entry Price

2.2 litre 150hp 10.2 seconds 19km/litre (5.3l/100km or 53mpg) 60 litres 139g/km Commercial €333 20,000km/12 mon 5 star (2012) 2000kgs 5 years (100,000km) €32,250

RENAULT Ireland, in partnership with

as ongoing broader recreational and

the Irish Youth Foundation, has handed

developmental activities for the wider

over the keys to a brand-new 171

youth population.

Renault Trafic nine-seater minibus to

The brand new Renault Trafic mini-

Inchicore’s Core Youth Service, to help

bus is a welcome addition to the organ-

get their new outdoor programmes on

isation’s services, as it will contribute

the road.

significantly to a new programme

Previously known as St Michael’s,

SPECIFICATIONS Engine Engine power 0 – 100km/hr Economy

Core Youth Service goes on the road with Renault Ireland with new minibus

travel outside of the area and will

lished in 1986 in response to poverty,

provide them with diversionary activi-

a lack of recreational opportunities

ties which are not centre-based, and

and substance misuse in the youth

are high in energy and adrenaline. This

population of St Michael’s estate and

project also enables staff at the Core

the larger Inchicore area in Dublin. The

Youth Service to develop relationships

project’s aim was to provide youth

with young people away from distrac-

interventions, activities, develop-

tions in the community, and promotes

mental groups and supports, as well

alternative lifestyles and fitness.

The boot for the Mitsubishi Outlander Business opens

General Motors and PSA Citroen/ Peugeot in Opel sale serious talks

high and there is a low lip to keep items from falling out

IN THE weeks leading

made a profit in Europe

up to the Geneva Motor

since 1999. GM has

Show, the speculation

already pulled out from

General Motors and PSA

that General Motors

the Russian and Austral-

Group regularly examine

(GM) was about to sell

ian markets, while it has

additional expansion and

its European business

owned the Opel brand

cooperation possibilities,

to the French-based

since 1929. The French

as well.

PSA Group was rampant

government holds a

in the motor industry.

stake of over 13% stake

that, together with Gen-

It was being reported

in the PSA Group.

eral Motors, it is explor-

that General Motors This shows the clarity of the reversing camera

lander’s reversing camera is clear with the images displayed on a large central screen that stayed relatively clean, despite the poor weather.

I found the Outlander

to be one of the most comfortable 4x4 commercials that I’ve driven so I was very impressed and relaxed after lengthy drives. The entry price of €32,250 includes a

which encourages young people to

the Core Youth Service was estab-

The PSA Group

for the two groups.

Within this framework,

PSA Group confirms

ing numerous strategic

The Mitsubishi Outlander Business is powered by a 2.2-

was in talks with PSA

responded in a state-

initiatives aiming at

litre turbo-diesel engine that generates 150bhp

which owns Citroen and

ment saying that since

improving its profit-

Peugeot that could lead

2012, General Motors

ability and operational

to a sale of Opel.

and PSA Group have

efficiency, including a

been implementing an

potential acquisition of

emerged after GM

Alliance covering, to

Opel.

recently warned of more

date, three projects in

losses in Europe in 2017.

Europe and generating

ance that an agreement

The company has not

substantial synergies

will be reached.

high level of specification while the price gap between the commercial and equivalent passenger versions is in the region of €6,950.

The Outlander can

make good business sense with the benefit of great driving comfort. Its load area is big with good access and the five-year warranty deal will keep you on the road.

The deal talks re-

There can be no assur-

GAZETTE

24 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 February 2017

DUBLINLIFE

ReelReviews

FENCES

CINEMA

THE GREAT WALL: MONSTER FLICK IS STUNNINGLY DAFT AND SURPRISINGLY ENJOYABLE

Denzel Washington directs and stars in this adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, which centers on a black garbage collector named Troy Maxson in 1950s Pittsburgh.

Bitter that baseball’s color barrier was only broken after his own heyday in the Negro Leagues, he tries to be a good husband and father, but his lost dream of glory eats at him, and causes him to make a decision that threatens to tear his family apart.

HIDDEN FIGURES Hidden Figures is the incredible untold story of Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monae)—brilliant AfricanAmerican women working at NASA, who served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit, a stunning achievement.

50 SHADES DARKER Grey Steele strike back

STEAMIER than drying socks on the radiator, and about as erotic as a weekend away with your in-laws, here comes 50 Shades Darker (Cert 18, 118 mins). Continuing the contrived misadventures of Grey and Steele, it’s got less romance than an old Mills and Boon book, and is even less grounded in reality than a Christmas episode of Eastenders – but fantasists may enjoy some of it.

Beautifully silly Jing Tian, Matt Damon and Pedro Pascal star in The Great Wall

WHILE, at its core, it may be a big, dumb mess of a medieval-monsteraction-epic, The Great Wall (Cer t 12A, 103 mins) is a thing of regimented bombast and beauty: a first step into the realm of the senseless blockbuster for a master of Chinese filmmaking.

Zhang Yimou’s first English language film may seem a far cry from the artful “wuxia” films for which the director is most famous – blockbusters in their own right.

However, thematically, The Great Wall has a lot in common with 2002’s Hero, harbouring a rather blatant nationalist subtext beneath its daft

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

monster-movie premise.

Matt Damon plays William, an Irish mercenary who shares a “common goal” with Spanish adventurer Tovar (Pedro Pascal) – “black powder”.

Making their way to China to steal the explosive secret, the pair find themselves caught up in a war between the Chinese military and a horrible alien army with big scary claws and row upon row of pointy teeth.

The Great Wall, it’s revealed, was built to keep these mysterious creatures away from the nation’s capital.

Up o n d i s c ove r i n g their formidable fighting skills, commander Lin Mae (Tian Jing) and chief strategist Wang (Andy Lau) seek the foreigners’ help in defending the garrison.

Y i m o u ’s p a i n t e r l y command of colour is obvious from The Great Wall’s opening segments – vast red-green expanses of Manchurian wild land delight the eye and the director’s militarised use of colour, as sumptuous here as in Hero, evokes Akira Kurosawa’s Ran. Each army regiment

is clad in different coloured armour and, accordingly, the battle sequences yield vibrant displays of purple, yellows blue and red.

The action is wonderfully choreographed and packed with graceful acrobatics and brutal violence alike.

The honour here is in fighting for one’s nation – not for individual glory or greed. Every soldier is ready and willing for glorious sacrifice under a common flag.

A t i t s h e a r t , The Great Wall is an ode to Chinese military might – consequently, there’s a souring sense of nationalism running throughout.

While the action is

wildly entertaining, it seems that rigorous training and fight choreography took precedent over Damon’s voice coaching – this will go down as one of the most feeble attempts at an Irish accent in the history of modern cinema.

Indeed, the acting here is stiff and rarely believable. There’s very little going on character-wise other than a tenuous subplot about redemption.

William begins proceedings as a “thief and a liar” and, with little or no prodding, performs a complete moral 180.

While he fails to ring believable performances from his key cast members, Yimou again proves

himself a master of action and visual composition.

The Great Wall is packed with sumptuous visuals, as much a parade of beauty and bombast in its quieter moments as in its huge, heaving battle sequences.

The film’s strictly regimented approach to colour explodes into wonderful chaos for the final showdown in a stainedglass tower.

While the story may be fraught with nonsenselogic and is lacking in any sort of compelling characterisation, The Great Wall ultimately entertains as a sumptuous-but-silly visual treat.

Verdict: 6/10

23 February 2017 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

TECH NEW MEDIA & AI: FACEBOOK FOUNDER’S LENGTHY PIECE GIVES FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Much to consider in Mark’s manifesto EYEBROWS were raised a little by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg’s unexpected (and extremely lengthy) personal manifesto which he released last week.

As one of the most influential men on the planet, tech watchers, business leaders and social innovators pored over his words with great interest – with a number of editorials subsequently expressing a little unease with his words.

In short, “Who watches the watchers?” was a common reaction, with some raising the oft-mooted point that it’s all very well for Zuckerberg/Facebook to talk about building a better world but, well, who said it’s a social media company’s place to do so?

And who, ultimately, controls what Facebook deigns to be acceptable, right or suitable?

Take, as just one example of several interesting points Zuckerberg raises, the following paragraph: “Right now, we’re starting to explore ways to use AI to tell the difference between news stories about terrorism and actual terrorist propaganda so

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com

we can quickly remove anyone trying to use our services to recruit for a terrorist organisation.”

Nobody’s going to shed a tear that there’s, say, one less ISIS-influenced page or comment thread in the world, or if a wide range of anti-(insert your poison) pages are shut down or blocked by Facebook.

Support However, digging deeper, the issue of what constitutes a terrorist group or terrorism becomes murkier – several conflicts currently rage around the world where different groups label ‘the other side’ as terrorists, yet said groups brand themselves as, say, freedom fighters, and may enjoy local or even international political support to a degree.

In which case, how is Facebook, whether via AI algorithms or human judgement, making a call

on the more complex issues of either facilitating, moderating or blocking such polarised views?

From China to Turkey to Syria, and to other authoritarian countries, a disparate range of groups exist which have been branded by the local authorities as terrorists, yet which aren’t necessarily recognised as such by other countries.

Should a global corporation whose raison d’etre is to make money have the power, or mission goal, to control contentious information about such groups, notwithstanding that it’s providing the platform to do so?

These are just a few of the questions raised by part of the general thrust of Zuckerberg’s words, with several others in a similar bent – generally questioning Facebook’s increasing role as a global platform – arising from his undoubtedly well-intentioned words.

Nobody is saying that Facebook is connected to facilitating terrorist views or repressive actions – of course not.

For the vast majority of its user base, Facebook is

Swede & sour times CONTINUING the social media tech focus this week (see main piece, right), it’s hard to fire up the ol’ Tweet machine without stumbling into The Donald, or a reaction to him.

Take, for example, his latest public war of words with ... Sweden.

Swedes were busy across the weekend reacting to President Trump’s muddled, inaccurate claim at the end of last week that their country was dealing with the negative consequences of immigration and related terrorism – a claim which baffled the country.

A lengthy personal manifesto written by Facebook’s founder Mark Zuckerberg gives plenty to think about and a fascinating insight into his thoughts and plans

just a social media platform, and any ‘higher questions’ regarding content and control are irrelevant when you’re just checking pics from last night out in Copper’s, checking how sis is in Sydney, or seeing some funny memes.

Power However, in a world where social media is as ordinary and commonplace for billions of people as sliced bread, clean water, or heat and light at the flick of a switch, Facebook’s ubiquitous presence gives it an increasing power which can drive or direct a great deal of politi-

cal and societal change, both directly and indirectly.

As Zuckerberg points out repeatedly and fairly throughout his writing, Facebook can be a positive force for change, and has indeed been instrumental in a great many positive actions.

From coordinating charity work to providing insights into the works of NGOs, and from helping to provide life-changing information to life-saving fundraising (as many Irish citizens can attest), Facebook has provided a key platform for change, for which many are thankful.

But when a single cor-

poration ends up with access to almost one in three people on the planet, and its boss starts writing extensively about the company’s purpose, it’s fair that a wide variety of people pay closer attention to its overall plans and direction – and as the saying goes, with great power comes great responsibility.

Whether or not you agree with the Facebook founder’s every word and point, it’s well worth looking up his lengthy piece for an insight straight from the boss about where the company may be going, and what its user base – you – means to the man at the top.

Eurovision Swedes reacted by Tweeting the (sorry, Sweden) not very exciting news of what is actually happening across the country at the moment, with Swedish preparations for their Eurovision entry being about the most exciting thing.

Immigration-influenced chaos and terrorism, however ... not so much, leading the Swedish embassy in America to dryly Tweet: “We look forward to informing the US administration about Swedish immigration and integration policies.”

In response, President Trump’s latest reaction (at the time of going to press): “The FAKE NEWS media is trying to say that large scale immigration in Sweden is working out just beautifully. NOT!” This Swede and sour story looks set to run and run...

26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 February 2017

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28 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 February 2017

SPORT

FastSport BOYLAN BURNS UP CALI TRACK: DUBLIN-born Lydia Boylan also flew the flag proudly for Irish cycling last weekend at a World Cup event in Cali, Colombia, competing in the newly structured Women’s Omnium, which consists of four events raced in one day.

At the halfway mark, the former Orwell Wheelers rider was lying second ahead of top riders like Sarah Hammer, Olympic silver medallist.

An upbeat Boylan was happy with her progress, with her current sixth position in the World Cup rankings being enough to qualify her for the World Championships in this event:“It was all about getting experience in the Omnium, and guaranteeing World’s qualification.

David [Muntaner – coach] and I worked well together to figure out the best tactics.

“It worked really well for the first two events; I wasn’t expecting to win the scratch race. A well-timed attack saw me take a lap on the field. This definitely gives me a lot of confidence.”

RUGBY: LEGENDARY IRISH CENTRE HAILS 22-YEAR-OLD AFTER SIX NATIONS SHOWING

Ringrose has skill-set to follow in O’Driscoll’s path

 SEBASTIAN CLAYTON sport@dublingazette.com

HIS performances in the opening weeks of the Six Nations have seen Garry Ringrose hog the headlines for Ireland, while his try against Italy last week saw comparisons drawn with legendary centre Brian O’Driscoll.

Comparisons will inevitably always be made between O’Driscoll and Ringrose during the Championships. After all, Ringrose wears the number 13 jersey, played for Blackrock, UCD, and Leinster, while he also did not start his rugby career as a centre.

O’Driscoll, who made 133 international appearances for Ireland and a further eight for the British & Irish Lions, has been impressed with what he has seen from Ringrose to-date but has called for calm.

Ringrose is just 22-years-old, has made less than ten international appearances for Ireland, only 30 for Leinster and is only playing in his first Six Nations Championships.

He is already being talked about as a possible Lions tourist to New Zealand this summer, something O’Driscoll did

Brian O’Driscoll, third from left, believes Garry Ringrose can follow in his ifootsteps. Picture: David Rogers/Getty Images

little to dispel but he insists there’s still plenty to do before Ringrose can be called the real deal.

“I have seen a lot of his Six Nations to-date and I have also watched a lot of his performances over the last couple of years for Leinster,” said O’Driscoll, who was speaking on behalf of Land Rover, a principal partner of the British & Irish Lions.

“I trained with him when he

came straight out of school and we could see that he had something special back then.

“I think any comparisons are always unfair on any new player coming in, I’m sure I’ll be saying in time the comparisons were unfair on the old player because this guy has got huge potential.

“I think he can be the best version of himself and not try to live up to anyone’s expectations but you should never put limitations on how good someone

can be and I get excited watching this guy play in the centre as he has got a terrific skill set and I think he is only going to get better if he can avoid injury.

“He sees things a little quicker than most players; I think he has a nice skillset, runs good angles, defensively packs a bigger punch than maybe his physique would suggest.

“I think he puts it all together and makes some good decisions, goof offloading game but

doesn’t throw the 50/50s, just a smart rugby player.”

As for whether he can make the Lions squad, O’Driscoll says why not?

“I think anyone can go on the Lions tour; there are still three rounds to go of the Six Nations.

“I think anyone that is playing internationally has a chance of shining and putting their hand up, so I wouldn’t mark him as not having as much of a chance as anyone else.

“Ireland’s next three test matches are going to be very difficult, an incredibly physical French team, a Welsh team that look rejuvenated and then an English team that will likely have silverware on the line.

“There will be a lot of questions asked of every player in the Irish setup and whether they can step up to the plate and put their best foot forward. I think if they can amd have a great shot of going on the tour.” ** Land Rover is on the hunt for grassroots Lions to join them on the British & Irish Lions Tour to New Zealand 2017. For your chance to win a place on tour, go to @LandRoverRugby #WeDealInReal

Busy Ingle praises KUBS for strong win over Killester  sport@dublingazette.com

Swords Thunder kept their winning streak going. Picture: Inpho

IT WAS a big weekend for Mark Ingle’s charges in both the men’s and women’s basketball Super Leagues as KUBS secured a big win over Pyrobel Killester on Thursday evening and ran league leaders Templeogue very close.

The latter side lost out 71-76 at the end of a nail-biter on Sunday, while DCU Mercy had 28 points to spare over NUIG Mystics in their Women’s Super League clash on Saturday.

Speaking about the win over Killester, Ingle said: “It was a

great win and good for the lads.

“They’ve been working hard all year and staying in with the better teams – we’re hanging in and getting better every week.”

E l s e w h e r e , U C D M a rian maintained their impressive form winning 64-76 against Killester on Saturday, while DCU Saints had to settle for second best against a dominant Griffith Swords Thunder.

The 85-69 win in the north Dublin derby means Thunder are still piling the pressure on Templeogue. They are level on points with Templeogue on 48 points,

albeit with an extra game played, with Dave Baker anticipating some twists and turns down the final stretch of the season.

Gar vey’s Tralee Warriors secured another good win on the road, overcoming Commercial.ie Eanna by 21 points, while SSE Airtricity Moycllen had 15 to spare over Belfast Star, and UCC Demons romped home to victory against Radisson Blu UL Eagles.

Ambassador UCC Glanmire remain top of the table in the women’s Super League meanwhile after they overcame neigh-

bours Singleton SuperValu Brunell on Sunday afternoon.

Courtyard Liffey Celtics are still holding firm on to their second place position following a hard-fought win over Pyrobel Killester in Clontarf on Sunday evening, Thanks to that 63-56 win, Celtics remain seven points off the pace set by Glanmire and needing a couple of favours if they are to top the charts.

Portlaoise Panthers added another win to their tally, overcoming Meteors on Saturday evening.

23 February 2017 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Swim sensation Rachael an Outsider of the Year Malahide woman breaks her fiance’s record for the fastest Irish person to cross the English channel; she tells GazetteSport about battling jellyfish, storms and more to achieve her target  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

Muay Thai’s Hand looking to make big statement REIGNING Junior Mayhem promotions champions Liam Hand, pictured, will defend his title against Dean Gallagher in April as he looks to continue his rise.

The 15-year-old won the belt following his three-round war against Derry’s Sean McGettigan in November and the Crumlin fighter, who trains at Hori’s Gym Muay Thai under Gabor Hortobagyi, is looking build on that win in 2017.

Hand exploded on the K1 scene in 2016 with an impressive run of victories which saw him up against the best in the land.

The Dublin club have some the best junior fighters in Ireland and will be out the cause an upset on the It’s Showtime 5 card.

Hortobagyi is confident in Hand’s ability and work ethic, saying that the teenager dedicates his life to the sport and trains like a professional and is coming to Derry to defend that title at all costs.

He takes on Derry’s Gallagher who has only been training 18 months and has already made a name as one of the fighters to watch with five wins and one loss, one which he says he took strength from to make some key changes to his training regime.

He now trains twice daily, five days a week, incorporating pad/bag work, sparring, strength and conditioning and inclined sprints to increase his V02 max.

Gallagher’s head coach at Rath Mor Warriors, Sean McGill, told us: “Dean is a pleasure to work with; he trains so hard and often I’m constantly at him to slow down his regime. He is on fire more than ever, and I have no doubt that Mayhem belt will be wrapped around Deans waist come April 1.”

Both he and Hand are on a mission to make a big statement in 2017 and see this prestigious Mayhem Promotions title as a stepping stone to bigger things.

The bout takes place at the White Horse Hotel in Derry and is a ticket only event, sponsored by the Pickled Duck café.

DISTANCE swimmer Rachael Lee has won the Outsider Magazine Wo m a n o f t h e Ye a r Award, after she broke her ow n boy friend’s Irish record for the fastest English channel swim last year, crossing from Dover to Calais in a time of nine hours and 40 minutes.

The Malahide woman’s achievement is all the more impressive given she trained for the swim around caring for young twin boys, often waking in the early hours for strenuous training sessions, alongside jobs as a firefighter and a nurse.

“The award meant a lot, particularly as there’s not a lot of recognition in marathon swimming,” Lee told GazetteSport.

“Obviously, you don’t do things like this to win awards; you do it or yourself, but it’s a huge honour. Swimming just takes over your life for that time.

“I was going for the Irish record [previously held by Lee’s fiancé Tom Healy] but to get such a high-profile award for it is overwhelming.”

Describing her training, Lee modesty summarised her balancing efforts as “having a lot of balls in the air”.

The actual extent of her time-management is hard to imagine. “I’d be

in the water for 5am,” she recalled. “The kids would go to bed at 7 and some days I’d have to go back to training then and I could be out training until 10pm.

“You have to train specifically for swimming in the sea, which is a different thing to the consistent water of a pool.

“I did a lot of swimming in lakes and rivers and travelled to experience some different water, swimming in Barcelona, for example. You have to get used to the cold, and typically you put on weight for the crossing itself, too.

“I gained about 4kg ahead of the swim, in preparation, but you don’t

Award Winner Rachel Lee pictured at the Outsider Awards 2016. Picture: Sean Cahill

really notice the temperature because you’re working so hard.

“Swimming in the sea is a very different thing; you have to worry about weather, sea creatures, stuff like that.”

She adds she was stung on numerous occasions by jellyfish during her crossing. During the swim, Lee faced a number

difficult. I don’t think I have much luck with conditions, every time I go out there seems to be difficulties.”

Lee had to abandon an attempt at the channel in 2015 after a storm emerged from clear conditions five hours into her swim. She abandoned the swim after seven hours.

The major issues

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

‘Swimming in the sea is a very different thing; you have to worry about sea creatures!’

- Rachael Lee

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

of challenges, and identified the closing stages of the 12-mile distance as the greatest challenge.

“A lot of people don’t make it through the final stages,” she said. “I knew that would be the greatest challenge. The tide turns in the channel every six hours, and that has a big impact. Sometimes you feel like you’re taking two strokes forward and one back. I stopped for a feeding break every half an hour, for 20 seconds, just to get some energy into me.”

“I felt very strong when I saw the land,” she continued. “That can be psychologically difficult for people because there’s still a lot of swimming to be done when you reach that point. I was specifically going out for the Irish record, which I got by 11-minutes.

“The conditions were

around such sports are sponsorship: essentially, there isn’t much.

“I’m still paying off the costs of the channel swim,” Lee explains. “It is so costly to do, with the support boats, the cost of travel for training, the cost of training itself, stuff like that. There’s not much money in these sports.

We’d love a sponsor, if one wanted to come forward. We’ve got a bit of money from a couple of organisations before.

But you make do, it’s not about the money.”

Lee’s next event will be slightly different – her wedding in August – but she still has major swimming ambitions on the horizon. “I’m looking at something big in 2018,” she told us. “I don’t want to give away the details just yet as I’m not sure of them myself, but there’s more to come.”

GAZETTE

30 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 February 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: RED COW CLUB’S CUP LAURELS AGAINST MAJOR LSL RIVALS

Clon on the attack. Picture: Sharon Flanagan

Ryan’s late salvo eases Clon’s Town Cup nerves

CLONDALKIN overcame a determined Longford side to book their place in the quarter finals of the Leinster Towns Cup with a 34-23 win in Kingswood on Sunday.

The 11-point winning margin does not tell the tale of the nervous finish from Clon, leading by just four points with two minutes to go.

Longford were held up over the Clon try line only for the home side to break out and score a try through centre Paddy Ryan with the last play of the game to break the tension.

Longford began the first half in the ascendancy, utting width on the ball at every opportunity. The Division 2A leaders had to wait just 10 minutes for the cracks to appear in Clon’s defense, touching down under the posts for a converted try.

Chris Jebb was on target with a penalty to get Clon on the scoreboard on the quarter hour mark but the pressure was all on the home team during these stages.

Clon did themselves no favours with a series of poor clearance kicks and they went into the break seven points down at 13-6.

With the wind at their backs, however, Clon started the second period stronger and from the kick off, momentum from a Jebb break was continued by Neil Finlay who registered the home team’s first try Jebb converted and Finlay doubled his tally just four minutes later, as he exploited some slack Longford covering, racing in unopposed down the left wing for an 18-13 lead.

Longford retorted with a penalty in the 50th minute but a pair of Jebb three-pointers eked out an eight-point advantage.

Longford kept fighting and a turnover on the Clon 22, allied to quick hands, saw them cross the whitewash and touchline conversion made it 24-23.

That’s how it stayed until the 72nd minute when Clon pressure defense forced a penalty at the breakdown for Jebb to convert a penalty.

A four point game it remained until the final minutes of drama which saw Clon push out to a winning margin of 11 points and a place in the quarter finals for the third year in a row.

Professional golfer Peter Lawrie, pictured centre with St Mochta’s Noel Crawford and Brian McCarthy, was a special guest as St Mochta’s Charlie Cahill Cup tie against Bluebell United as part of Luttrellstown Golf Club’s sponsorship of the game

Bell toll for St Mochta’s CHARLIE CAHILL CUP

St Mochta’s Bluebell United  JAMES HENDICOTT

0 3

sport@dublingazette.com

THE LEINSTER Senior League’s top two got to suss each other out ahead of the Sunday Senior’s critical stages on Friday night, as Bluebell United travelled to title rivals St Mochta’s in the Charlie Cahill Cup. On the one hand, the pair might consider themselves unlucky to have drawn each other in the first round of the competition but, with the sides level on points, the cup might also come as a wel-

come stress relief.

Bluebell’s recent tradition in the league is far stronger than that of Mochta’s and the defending champions looked the part in Porterstown, though the scoreline flattered them, as Mochta’s showed their class but couldn’t put the ball in the Red Cow side’s net.

It only took Mochta’s a few seconds to threaten the Bluebell goal, in fact, as veteran goalkeeper Andy McNulty was forced into a sharp stop from David Lacey, only to see Bluebell take early control as they took advantage of a set piece.

Dean Laurence headed

CRYSTAL STAR O’Loughlin honoured for 2016 athletic heroics CLONDALKIN man Louis O’Loughlin, who

runs for Donore Athletic Club, was among the track and field stars of the future who were hailed at the Athletics Ireland Emerald Crystal Star Awards for 2016.

The cross-country and long distance runner received his award from Georgina Drumm, President Athletics Ireland and Kerry O’Flaherty, Irish Olympian, at the Tullamore Court Hotel, following his superb performances last year.

Picture: Dan McGrath/Editorial Images.

into the Mochta’s net after the away side won a corner, emphatically finishing high, with Karl Russell threatening to add a second only a minute later.

It was Jordan Keegan who handed Bluebell real control, though. Keegan took advantage of some too-casual defence from the hosts, smashing in front distance past ‘keeper Morgan Cranley, who – despite having a decent first half – was promptly substituted off at the break.

The goal came against the run of play and will leave Mochta’s feeling slightly hard done by, and the hosts did continue

a period of dominance going into the second half, but couldn’t find the cutting edge.

Philly Hughes broke through and hit the post for the Porterstown side, after coming on as a halftime replacement, while Mark Osbourne – Cranley’s replacement in the Mochta’s goal – took his chance to stake a claim with a series of outstanding stops as the half wore on.

It was another corner that eventually put the tie conclusively to bed as a period of Mochta’s dominance nevertheless ended in a Bluebell corner, with Gary Seery putting in a

scrappy set play to give Bluebell a flattering 3-0 win.

With the Red Cow side still going strong in the FAI Intermediate Cup and the league looming large, though, perhaps neither side will be too concerned about the Charlie Cahill contest at this stage, with bigger fish still to fry.

Perhaps more worryingly for Mochta’s, Bluebell added a real element of class to their already clinically effective frontline this week, with Andy Noonan adding former Carlisle United, Bray and Bohemians man David Scully to an already potent attacking squad.

23 February 2017 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

THREE IN A ROW

CLUB NOTICEBOARD

Tower’s Under-16s top after win over Maur’s

ROUND TOWER, CLONDALKIN RETURNING to competitive action, our

On Thursday, March 9, we will host

ROUND Tower’s Under-16 footballers made

senior footballers drew with St Mary’s

a coaching workshop: Transition from

in the AIB Cup; our junior As beat Tem-

Defence to Attack. Former Dublin foot-

pleogue Synge Street in the Conlon

baller and Na Fianna manager Mick Gal-

Cup and our junior Bs were beaten by

vin will deliver it from 7.30-9pm .

it three wins from three in Division 3 following a fine win over St Maur’s.

They ran out 4-9 to 2-5 winners at the Community Centre last Saturday, adding to successes against Cuala and Ballinteer St John’s that have lifted them to the top of the table. They are the only side with a perfect record at this stage.

Ranelagh Gaels in the Murphy Cup.

Picture: Niall Connaughton

if checked within 45 numbers; €20 for

welcome club favourite Laurie Hartz to

full house. All in €2 to buy in with a game

the club. No cover charge and all wel-

usually being €90-€150. Raffle €2 or

come. Laurie’s performance will start

three for €5.

at 10pm.

HURLING: MINOR SIDE BATTLE HARD AGAINST BRIGID’S

The bingo jackpot this week is €10,000

This coming Friday, February 24, we

If the Round Tower lotto jackpot of

New players are being sought for

€10,000 is not won on or before the draw

our senior ladies football team. Please

on Monday, March 6, a special draw will

spread the word. If interested, contact

be made for 10 prizes of €1,000.

Barry at 085 1493958.

All tickets purchased between Feb-

Also, our U-11 girls footballers would

ruary 6 and March 6 draws will be

welcome new players. Contact Ken at

entered. Play lotto online via our web-

087 9983484.

site - www.roundtower.ie.

A listing of club membership, as of

The Round Tower Lotto (February 13)

February 12, has been posted in the

jackpot was €10,000. Numbers drawn

club.

were 1, 18, 25 and 26; the bonus ball was

Members are advised to check to ensure their membership is featured.

20. No overall winner and no bonus ball winner.

Queries can be directed to info@round-

Three €100 winners: Trish Lee, Betty

tower.ie or secretary.roundtower-

Farrell, Dinny the Cat. Thank you to all

sclondalkin.dublin@gaa.ie.

for your continued support of the lotto.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN

Round Tower were undone by a strong St Brigid’s side. Picture: Martin Doherty

Youthful Tower’s on minor learning curve MHL DIVISION 3 St Brigid’s 2-13 Round Tower, Clondalkin 1-6  KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

IT was a tough start to the season for the Round Tower’s minor C side after they lost to St Brigid’s by 2-13 to 1-6 in the MHL division 3 south at Russell Park last weekend.

St Brigid’s struck the first point of the game but Tower’s hit back to take the lead through two scores from midfielder Liam O’Connor.

The Blanch side then took over the game from

that point built a strong lead through a soft goal and a couple of points.

P o i n t s we r e t h e n exchanged before Tower’s scored a goal of their own to leave the score at 1-6 to 1-3 going into the break.

A substitute for St Brigid’s then changed the game as it helped lead to a goal and string of points for the home side, putting them firmly in control.

Alex O’Neill scored a great point that was followed up by another from Sean Dignam to give Tower’s a glimmer of hope, but St Brigid’s

responded to stretch their lead beyond catch.

“They were stronger than us and they had good players down the middle of the pitch,” Tower’s mentor Billy O’Connor told GazetteSport. “We had a young team out, with only one actual minor and the rest from the Under-16s and Under-17s.”

This season sees the division split into north and south because so many teams were looking to compete in it. The move was probably a good one for Tower’s as they finished bottom of their division last season

so otherwise might be playing in Division 4 this year.

With Tower’s having such a young team, this year is likely to be about experience with the aim of building for next year.

“We were missing a few at the weekend such as a midfielder and centre-back that would have made a big difference.

They are too big strong lads that have age on their side and will help us going forward.

“It is all about experience because we are really building for next year,” O’Connor concluded.

THE lotto numbers for this week were

had a great win over Raheny with a

11, 18, 27 and 29. There was no winner so

score of 9-9 to 0-1, well done all.

next week, the jackpot will be €3,600.

Great win for our U-11s at the week-

The draw takes place in the Palmers-

end over Peregrines. It was a great

town House every Sunday night at 10pm

overall performance with the whole

and tickets cost €2.

team working hard for each other.

Thank you to all our sellers and to all

Well done to Oisin Beegan, Jamie Yeo-

that support our lotto every week. Tick-

mans and Michael Donahue. Well done

ets available from all the usual sellers

also to our U-16 footballers who had a

including Moriarty’s SuperValu, Palm-

great win over Na Fianna with a score

erstown House and Manor Hair Studios.

of 8-8 to 4- 4. Some great performances

Congrats to our U-13 footballers who

LUCAN SARSFIELDS

over the weekend, well done all.

THE senior football season is underway

pated in Comortas Peile Paidi O Se at the

with Lucan losing out to St Jude’s in the

weekend. In the end, Clounmacon got the

season opening St Vincent De Paul Cup

better of them in the final.

competition.

The intermediate footballers also lost to Kilmacud in the Joy Cup; the jun-

On the juvenile side, it was a football weekend with strong wins for the U-13AB, U-14AB, U-15B and U-16A.

ior As did get the better of St Brendan’s

LastManStanding is up and running,

in the Stacy Cup as did the junior Bs in

so be sure to get your entry in by 5pm

the O’Broin Cup with a win over Erin Go

on Friday.

Bragh.

April 1 is the date for a club dinner dance. Tickets will be available later this week.

The minor B hurlers opened their league with a win over St Patrick’s.

In camogie, Lucan were well represented in the senior Dublin team with Emma Flanagan, Mairi Moynihan and Ali Twomey included in the team that lost

25 Card Drive is on Friday and the Cupla Focal club continues on Monday.

Date for your Diary: Lucan Sarsfields Golf Society 2017 AGM will be held in the clubhouse on Tuesday, March 7 at 9pm.

All are very welcome.

The set dancing is also on Wednesday next at 8.30pm in the function room.

Bingo is also back on Wednesday evenings at 8.30pm in the club bar.

out to Cork. In Dublin’s premier junior

The club shop is back open. Times are

2-10 to 1-5 win over Roscommon, Emer

Saturday at 10.30am to -12.30pm, Thurs-

Keenan and Michelle Kelly played their

days from 7-8.30pm. A number of items

part.

are on sale at a reduced price including

Lucan’s ladies football team partici-

pink ladies jackets and tee-shirts,

32 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 February 2017