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Complaints about ‘nightmare neighbours’ up to one a day  SYLVIA POWNALL NIGHTMARE neighbours are prompting complaints of anti-social behaviour in Clondalkin at a rate of almost one per day.

Figures show that an average of 24 antisocial complaints per month have been reported to South Dublin County Council this year for the Clondalkin area. Statistics

show that 221 complaints were made to SDCC in the first nine months of the year – and 224 incidents were reported during the same period.

Noise disturbances were at a peak in April, M a y a n d J u n e w i t h 31 c a s e s , while vandalism repor ts were at their peak in the first quar ter, with 16 reports.

Up to 25 social housing surrenders have been obtained for the first nine months of the year, with 21 warnings issued by housing officers to tenants.

Reports of drug activity are also up – with 19 incidents involving drugs reported since April, compared with none from January to March 2016.

Violence and intimidation rose from

one report in the first quarter to 20 from April to June and 11 in the period from July to September.

Squatters and illegal occupier cases rose from one and two cases in the first half of the year, to eight cases reported during July, August and September.

Three abandonment notices have been served for the area so far this year.

2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 November 2016

HOUSING | 59 HOMES TO BE BUILT ON LAND NEAR SCHOOL

Council to plough ahead with rapid-build units Let there at St Cuthbert’s Park be lights Chloe, Rachel and Shauna enjoying the festivities

 SYLVIA POWNALL

SOUTH Dublin County Council is forging ahead with plans for 59 rapid build housing units in St Cuthbert’s Park, it emerged earlier this week.

The local authority wants to construct a mix of three-bed detached, semi-detached and terraced units on land beside Deansrath Community College and Lealand Walk in Bawnogue.

However the proposal is expected to meet with some resistance locally as residents are concerned over lack of amenities and anti-social behaviour in what is already a built-up residential area.

Cllr Mark Ward (SF) said: “We are going to carry out our own consultation with residents in Lealand and Lindisfarne.

“After this we will consider our posi-

tion based on the results. Sinn Fein plan to knock door to door on this issue in the coming days.”

The council published a notice regarding ‘Part 8’ for the infill project on Tuesday and plans can be viewed at SDCC’s civic offices in Clondalkin.

Crisis Just last month some area councillors warned against the over-development of areas which are already densely populated as a knee-jerk reaction to the housing crisis.

T hey want new homes dispersed throughout the area rather than west and north Clondalkin taking all the pressure.

Cllr Trevor Gilligan (SF) told The Gazette: “I am calling on all community groups and residents to make sure they have their say and make a submission at

the earliest possible time if they want any changes made.”

Submissions or observations can be made online at http://consult.sdublincoco.ie, by email to construction@sdublincoco.ie, or in writing to arrive no later than 4.30pm on Friday January 20, 2017.

Meanwhile, the council has applied for €86 million in Government funding to invest in infrastructure at sites in Adamstown and Clonburris.

The housing activation fund aims to provide large-scale transport, water and sewage schemes to service lands zoned for housing.

Housing Minister Simon Coveney has also announced fast-track delivery for 30,000 new urban homes including 7,400 at Adamstown, 8,000 in Clonburris and 1,000 in Corkagh.

T

HOUSANDS turned out on a cold night on Henry Street to see the Christmas lights turned on. The festive spirit was rifr with entertainment from Glenn & Ronan and the Hallelujah Gospel Choir. Dubliners will see a difference on the street this year – out go the circular wreaths that have been there for nearly nine years, and in comes a new set with a new design.

The Hallelujah Gospel Choir

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24 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3

 SYLVIA POWNALL A DUBLIN choir will see its Christmas dream come true this year – just months after the man who set it all in motion passed away.

The Park Singers, founded in 1970

by Dr Sean Creamer (right) in the Phoenix Park, will launch their first ever Christmas CD at a gala concert in Christchurch Cathedral.

But sadly Sean, who also founded both the National Children’s and the Dublin Secondary Schoolgirls’ choirs, died earlier this year.

Choir spokesperson Maria Murray said: “We have wanted to do a Christmas CD for years. Christchurch is the ideal place for the launch – beautiful acoustics in a beautiful, historic setting.

“Sean was very well known in educational circles, as well as in choral circles and in

many primary and secondary schools. Unfortunately, he passed away only five months ago.”

The concert on Sunday, December 4 ,will be a bittersweet experience for the 35-strong choir and director Orla Gillan, since Sean won’t get to see them realise a long-held ambition.

But they are determined to do him proud with a festive and uplifting evening of carols by candlelight including O Holy Night, Carol of the Bells and Silent Night – along with new Christ-

mas material.

The Parks are also excited to be launching their Christmas CD ‘The Park Singers Christmas Songbook’ on the night.

The Park Singers are determined to keep Sean’s legacy going and are urging anyone who shares their love of Christmas carols to get their ticket for the event early.

Tickets cost €10 plus booking fee are available from christchurchtickets.com.

Teenage author has her first book published on Amazon 4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 November 2016

 SYLVIA POWNALL

Hana Efendic author

A LOCAL teenager has just had her first novel published on Amazon – where it’s already receiving rave reviews.

Hana Efendic, who was born in Dublin to Bosnian parents, is delighted with the posi-

tive response her book ‘Nia’ has received.

Hana, 17, who lives in Newcastle with sister Kanita, 24, mum Harisa and dad Amir, is a first year business student at Trinity College but the book started as a fifth class assignment in primary school.

Hana told The Gazette: “The idea came from a short story that I had written when a substitute teacher gave us a writing exercise to do.

“He read what I had written, highly praised it and told me to continue writing it even though my English at the time

Nia - available on Amazon

was very basic seeing as I was only a ten-year-old.”

Hana carried on with her endeavours adding 50 pages – then returned to it two years later as a secondary student at St Mac Dara’s Community College in Templeogue.

She said: “Now, after many years what was once a simple story has progressed into what is today a 10,000-word book called Nia.” The book tells the

story of a 14-year-old girl who lives in Dublin and struggles to overcome the challenges of living with a bi-polar mother and dealing with unsympathetic teachers.

The coming-of-age tale sees Nia deal with unexpected events including meeting Kunko from Russia, learning a hidden secret about her father, and ending up in hospital.

Hana said: “‘Nia’

isn’t in any way autobiographical but there are elements of the story that I have come across before and they can range from feelings to memories or simply close experiences.

“It’s a story that some people will definitely relate to because it deals with ongoing issues that any of us can or could have easily experienced whilst growing up.”

Hana’s parents are thrilled at the fact that there is a writer in the family and are looking forward to seeing her next published offering.

Hana, a member of Virginia House Writers in Tallaght, said: “I have written many short stories, poems and opinion pieces since writing my first book but I have recently started writing a second, so we’ll see how it goes.

“My plan is to just keep on going through this journey that we call ‘life’ and write as much as I can and feel obliged to- by no one other than myself.”

Link for the book: https://www.amazon. co.uk/Nia-Hana-Efendi.

Fianna Fail deputy welcomes increase in rail services for Clondalkin/Fonthill

INCREASED rail services for Clondalkin/Fonthill have been welcomed by Fianna Fail TD John Curran.

Irish Rail on Monday introduced nine extra services linking north Kildare to Connolly and Grand Canal Dock via west Dublin and the re-opened Phoenix Park tunnel.

Deputy Curran said: “Any measures to avoid the localities’ future being seriously undermined by traffic congestion and expensive public transport are very much welcomed.

“I hope that this added train service will enhance the competitiveness and attractiveness of Dublin Mid-West as a destination for living, visiting, for locating and doing business.

“However, more must be done to increase affordability of public services.

“While this is a welcome development, more capacity is needed on the rail network throughout Dublin mid-west to keep up with the increased number of commuters who rely on the train services to get to work on time, this must include an expansion to off-peak and weekend services.”

24 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5

6 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 November 2016

GazetteGALLERY

| TIPS AND INVALUABLE KNOWLEDGE SHARED BY NEVEN

Neven cooks up a storm

Luke Halpin, John Noonan and Conor Keegan (Molloys)

C

ELEBRITY chef Neven Maguire showed off his considerable culinary skills at a cookery demonstration in the Green Isle Hotel where all proceeds went to the Sacred Heart School, Sruleen, Clondalkin. The parents are hoping to raise funds for an all-weather pitch at the school.

Neven prepared a three-course meal sharing his expertise and passion for food to the delight of the audience.

Nevin Maguire in full swing. Pictures: Paul O’Rourke

Laura O Driscoll Maureen Mcenery Tracey Mc Mullen (T&R Cupcakes)

Lynda Cruise

Marty Mitchell Liam O Donnell of RAMS In Rythmn

Aine O Leary, Sinead Walsh and Niamh Ni Laoire

Patrick Murphy and Ivy Agbenyo

Georgina McCarthy and Gillian O’ Leary

Kenny Rorie of Armelles kitchen

24 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 7

ON THE NIGHT WERE THOUGHT INSPIRING

Liam Kelly, Sacred Heart School Principal with Neven Maguire and Melissa Maguire

Ian Jackson Ryan Jamie Waters

Sarah and Paul Donegans

Anna Kelly

Ben Mc Larne of Cool Swan

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

8 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 November 2016

Local Enterprise Office

Supports for Start Businesses

THE LOCAL Enterprise Office South Dublin is the “First Stop Shop” within S outh D ublin Count y Council for anyone seeking information and support on starting or growing a business in South Dublin County. Our role is to drive the development of local enterprise, put-

ting local micro and small business at the heart of job creation. We support business start-ups and work to increase the job potential of new and existing micro and small businesses with information, advice, training, mentoring, seminars and selective financial support.

In 2015 alone LEO South Dublin successfully delivered a range of supports to microenterprise clients including the following headline achievements: • Over €550k in grant approvals for 32 projects with a potential for 174 jobs; • financial supports of

€375k paid directly to clients; • Training programmes provided to 722 participants • Mentoring assistance given to 487 clients through clinics and appointments LEO South Dublin has continued this level of

client service in the current year, participating in a comprehensive range of national and local initiatives as well as placing ourselves to the forefront in engagement with the local business community and promotion of South Dublin County as a positive place to do business.

The range of services specifically targeted at Star t – up businesses includes, but is not limited to, the following: PRIMING GRANTS Priming support is to help fund the cost of starting a small business in South Dublin. It is for new businesses within the first 18 months after start up.

The overall maximum support is €80,000. In general the level of funding will also relate to the level of employment provided in the short to medium term at an indicative rate of €8000 per new job created.

To qualify for any of these funding supports, all projects must have the potential to be commercially viable within a reasonable timeframe, employ 10 or less and must be located within South Dublin County LEO jurisdiction. Priority is given to manufacturing and internationally traded service projects.

MENTORING The Mentoring Service aims to help young or growing eligible companies improve their chances of survival and growth.

Occasionally, developing or start-up businesses encounter a specific problem or want to undertake a specific project that

Magic in the air: Gavin Lawlor, Aoife Lawlor, Niamh

requires sk ills beyond the normal range of the Owner/Manager. Our panel of ‘Mentors’ are all experienced business executives and consultants who are skilled in working with the owner/manager to specify the problem, identify solutions and implement them.

TRAINING PROGRAMMES Regular business training and events are one of the pillars of our supports to micro enterprise, see online bookings for the selection available. Our training aims to help young or growing companies improve their chances of survival and growth by offering regular comprehensive courses in

• Starting a Business, • Financial management, • Technology, • Online Marketing, • Social Media, • Computerised Book keeping, • Business Planning, • Intellectual Property, • Employment Law, • Time Management, and many more.

Sec tor specific pro grammes such as Food Academy Start are offered to early stage food production companies. Management Development Programmes such as Plato, Hi Start, Accelerate are also offered to owner / managers wishing to take their business to the next level.

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

24 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9

South Dublin Businesses

Up

Business Q&A

The Irish Fairy Door Company Niamh Sherwin Barry, Co-Founder

THE Irish Fairy Door company was set up in 2013 to ensure that the housing needs of the Irish fairy population were being adequately addressed. They were specially selected by the Fairy Council to provide handcrafted fairy doors for all locations – be it your home, your garden, the office, school or care centre.

Actually made by their carpenters in the workshop of a 200 year old cottage in the heart of Ireland, each fairy door is given a portion of magic so that your new fairy can come and go between our world and Fairyland.

We spoke to Niamh Sherwin Barry, Chief Story Teller with The Irish Fairy Door Company, about the journey from idea formation to worldwide distribution.

Sherwin Barry, Oisin Barry of the Irish Fairy Door Company

TRADING ONLINE VOUCHER SCHEME The Trading Online Voucher Scheme provides grant assistance to small businesses to trade online. Eligible businesses can apply for a voucher to invest in developing their ecommerce capability, of up to €2,500 matched by own funding to develop a trading online component to their business. (Applicant businesses must be registered and trading for at least 12 months) MICRO FINANCE IRELAND LOANS Microfinance Ireland was established by the Government to provide

additional lending to startup and existing micro enterprises. Under a partnership between Microfinance Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices, Business Loans are now available through the Local Enterprise Office South Dublin at a reduced Interest Rate of 6.8% APR for LEO clients

day” for up to two years is available(subject to terms & conditions).

MICROENTERPRISE/ START-UP SUPPORT (RATES) In order to encourage new micro enterprise and where previously vacant enterprise space is made available to, and occupied by, a new microenterprise, a graduated “rates holi-

CASE STUDY – THE IRISH FAIRY DOOR COMPANY www youtube. com/ watch?v=Vp5F1gctpN0 LEO South Dublin and the Fairy Door are participating in the Rathcoole Enterprise Town business and community expo on 25th November 2016.

SIGNPOSTING SERVICE The Local Enterprise Office also provides a signposting service to the many other agencies providing supports to the business community locally, regionally and nationally.

What was your motivation to start your own business back in 2013?

“Like many people, myself and my husband, along with our business partners Aoife and Gavin, had been hard hit by the recession and found ourselves out of work. Myself and Aoife had previously bought fairy doors and were one day discussing the things we’d done to make them more magical for our children. Then it clicked. While what we had bought were just pieces of wood, we had created an entire magical experience!

We saw what we could do and what could be done, we saw it’s potential.”

“From those 4 people at the start, we now directly employ 23 full time staff.”

What was your biggest challenge early on?

“Undoubtedly, it was our lack of start-up capital. We literally didn’t have a tenner to rub together between us. We knew we had a wonderful idea, both conceptually and financially, we knew it would work but we had no spare money.

Luckily, my Mother was able to help us out. She had stopped smoking 9 years previously and gave us the €8,500 she had saved from doing so.

We’re still not sure if she believed in the idea or just wanted to keep us in the country! We were very close to emigration at this stage!”

How do you feel you are different from your competitors?

“We’re the market leader in the fairy door business right now, and for

good reason. While there were fairy doors in existence before us, our brand was a new concept within this area. Other companies were selling just little pieces of wood, there was no magic, no follow up work after the initial sale. We were first out of the blocks with the magic we created. While we do have some real competition now, people have bought into the magic we provide. Once one of our doors is bought, you can register the name of your fairy and we will provide news, stories and activities every Friday without fail.

We provide the full service.”

What is the next step for The Irish Fairy Door Company?

“Well we can now safely say that every second child in Ireland has a fairy door. We’re in a strong position nationally, now we want to replicate this in the UK and in America. We’ve hired PR companies in both areas so that we can start to really get our name out there. While Irish people are fantastic at supporting their own and recognising a great story behind a business, this isn’t something we can rely on abroad. We need to get past this and get our genuine magic out there.”

How have you been received internationally?

“We’ve been received very well. Ireland is viewed across the world as a land of mythology, magic and fairies, and we’re also liked too! The Irish are storytellers by trade, and we’re bringing that worldwide. Through our storytelling, we’ve even created a whole new world called ‘Fairy Valley’!

In the US, we knew the amount of positive goodwill there is towards Ireland, so keeping the name ‘Irish’ in our brand was a definite positive for us. We weren’t so sure about the

UK though, but we researched the matter and actually discovered that our rich mythological heritage was known and loved in the UK!” How did the South Dublin Local Enterprise Office help you when you were starting out?

“They were fantastic from the very start! Our business advisor truly understood what we were trying to do. She got it, and she believed in us.

It was a confidence we needed as a small operation. We were guided through the entire process, and we received the maximum amount of funding available at the time. I can still remember getting the phone call off of my husband, saying we’d gotten the money. We were all balling crying!

What is the main piece of advice you’d have for budding entrepreneurs?

“I’m creative and a great communicator, yet I haven’t a clue of numbers or the more technical side of the business. This I know, but I’m surrounded by people who can cover these gaps in my knowledge, while I cover for theirs. If you have a good idea that you can sell, get likeminded people around you, have a team!

Even if it’s just two people! I’m convinced no one person has every skill needed to do this all on their own.

Even if it means giving a piece of your business away, you need to surround yourself with good people.”

And finally, where can we find your magical fairy doors?

“Our website is the best place to find our products, we’ve a selection of doors and accessories that you can choose from. Our site also has a list of all our stockists internationally for those who want to but in-store.”

10 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 November 2016

Tanaiste insists that asylum seekers will not be evicted from centre

The Ciaran Carr Foundation digs deep for Clondalkin Helping Homeless

CLONDALKIN Helping Homeless received a boost to the tune of more than €10k thanks to the annual 5K run organised by the Ciaran Carr Foundation.

The foundation – set up in memory of Round Towers footballer Ciaran who passed away as a result of Sudden Adult Death Syndrome – chose the local

charity as its beneficiary of this year’s event in Corkagh Park.

Clondalkin Helping Homeless founder and local councillor Francis Timmons (Independent) said: “On behalf of all the homeless and families that will benefit I thank the foundation for their huge efforts in raising €10,649.23.”

JUSTICE Minister Frances Fitzgerald has insisted there will be no forced evictions from the Direct Provision Centre at the Towers in Clondalkin.

Up to 40 families of former asylum seekes who have now been granted residency status are among those currently living there.

Recent speculation that the Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) and Department of Justice were planning to evict them caused concern locally.

But in response to a parliamentary question, the minister said: “The RIA has never threatened to evict any persons from its accommodation centres who have been granted leave to remain, or any other form of status.”

She said RIA would continue to provide accommodation until families secured their own.

Sinn Fein Deputy Eoin O Broin welcomed the news but called for a rethink on the Direct Provision system. He said: “High rents and shortage of rental properties is making is almost impossible for these families to secure permanent accommodation.

“This is made worse by the Department of Social Protection not paying full rate social welfare while people remain in Direct Provision and to continue to pay just €19.50 per week.”

Cllr Francis Timmons (Ind) also called for an end to “inhumane” Direct Provision: “No child should have to live in fear. But kids living in the overcrowded Direct Provision system are at risk of social exclusion, poor mental health, sexual violence, and malnutrition.”

CLONDALKIN | YOUTH BAND GRIEVES GREAT LOSS

Fond farewell for Jim, a true gent and friend  SYLVIA POWNALL TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of the man who led Clondalkin Youth Band for more than 30 years.

Jim Carrigan from Palmerstown co-founded the celebrated CYB in 1985 and played an integral part in its development over the years.

He had been suffering from an illness for the past year and passed away at Tallaght Hospital on November 4.

Jim, a grandfather of three, also served on the committee of the Irish Marching Band Association (IMBA) and his death leaves a huge void.

In a statement Clondalkin Youth Band said: “Not only was Jim a great supporter to CYB but he was also a valued member of the IMBA committee, and his love for music and the marching arts was plain to see for all.

“We have a lost a dedicated supporter and loyal friend to all,

Jim Carrigan

one in a million, he will be sadly missed.”

Jim will be remembered by countless young musicians for his patience and dedication – and for starting sentences with the word ‘however’ when gently taking them to task over their performance.

Tributes from across Ireland – and from the UK – have been posted by those who knew Jim. Leroy Grubb, Chairman of the

British Youth Band Association, said Jim was “someone you could confide in” and it was a “privilege to call him a friend”.

These sentiments were echoed by band members across the country, who praised a “true gent” and a “rock within the association”.

Jim moved from his native Sligo to settle in Palmerstown, raising a family with his wife Eileen. Two of their daughters, Nicola and Emma, were long-standing members of CYB. After his funeral service at St Matthews Church CYB posted: “Today we said our final farewell to our dear friend, loyal supporter and dedicated committee member Jim Carrigan in a fitting, dignified service which saw CYB perform alongside some members of the IMBA council.

“Jim was definitely smiling down listening to the beautiful music. To Eileen, Ann, Nicola and Emma our hearts are with you today and always.”

24 November 2016 CLONDALKKIN GAZETTE 11

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 24 November 2016

DUBLINBUSINESS NEW NETWORK | PROVIDING SUPPORTS TO FEMALE EMPLOYEES

Fujitsu launches initiative to encourage divHERsity  IAN BEGLEY TV3 presenter Martin King with Noel Keeley, MD of Musgrave MarketPlace

Musgrave MarketPlace announces €2.2m upgrade of its Ballymun store MUSGRAVE MarketPlace has unveiled a €2.2m upgraded Ballymun store, located off St Margaret’s Road.

The store’s renovation forms part of an ongoing commitment from the wholesaler to deliver first class customer service experience and unrivalled product offerings to its customers.

At 75,000 square feet overall, the new Ballymum store has increased in size by 20% and positions itself as the ‘cash

Businesses asked to ‘help save our bees’ IRISH businesses are being called on to take action in helping to save the bees.

The National Biodiversity Data Centre and Bord Bia have launched a Framework for Businesses as part of the AllIreland Pollinator Plan, which identifies actions that companies can take to help protect pollinators and the livelihoods of farmers who rely on their invaluable pollination service.

Irish pollinators are in decline, with one third of Ireland’s 98 bee species threatened by extinction in Ireland.

and carry of the future’, with a range of new speciality areas and stateof-the art technology to offer retail and foodservice customers a best-inclass shopping experience.

Customers will now avail of free wifi, self-scan store entry and touchscreens which have been installed throughout the cash and carry to provide access to the wider range available from the central distribution warehouse in Blanchardstown.

The annual value of pollinators for human food crops is at least €53 million.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Jane Stout, deputy chair of the All Ireland Pollinator Plan Steering Group, said, “Without pollinators it would be impossible for farmers or gardeners to affordably produce many of the fruits and vegetables we need for a healthy diet. Pollinators are also necessary for a healthy environment and landscape. Without them, the 78% of wild plants in Ireland that require insect pollination would disappear.

The plan, makes Ireland one of the first countries in Europe with an approach to address this problem.”

FUJITSU Ireland has launched the Women’s Business Network @ Fujitsu, a new initiative aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion amongst its workforce and associated work practices.

The network will provide the following supports to female Fujitsu Ireland employees.

O ve r t h e n e x t 1 2 months the network will host an inspiring lineup of speakers, themed events and a number of forums to discuss the challenges and issues facing women in business and celebrating those women who have inspired both within and outside of the technology sector.

The network aims to get both sexes discussing the issues of working in maledominated industries and to help understand each other better. Organisers

I.T. giant Fujitsu has moved to promote diversity and inclusion amongst its Irish workforce

hope the programme can strengthen and boost the professional relationships of Fujitsu Ireland members whilst unlocking the value that diversity presents.

Veronica Rahneberg, sales director Fujitsu Ireland said: “This is a great initiative that will benefit not only female colleagues but also Fujitsu Ireland as a whole. It is our hope that

this network will serve as a launch pad for our employees to build on their success to date and ultimately reach their full potential, influencing an affecting change at the

highest levels.

“We see this initiative as not only benefiting Fujitsu Ireland but also the broader global Fujitsu network and ultimately our client partners.”

EpiCor Therapeutics wins start-up of the year award EpiCor Therapeutics, an earlystage biotech start-up, has won University College Dublin’s (UCD) 2016 Start-Up of the Year Award.

The start-up won the award and a €20,000 prize, after being declared overall winner of the 2016 UCD VentureLaunch Accelerator Programme.

EpiCor Therapeutics is developing new disease-modifying treatments that target the mechanisms underlying the development of heart failure. The initial focus of EpiCor Therapeutics is to repurpose an existing drug, 5-azacytidine, for the treatment of a devastating heart disease called hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM).

The disease currently affects around 175,000 people, with associated annual healthcare costs of over $1 billion, in the US alone.

HOCM is a disease in which a portion of the heart muscle is enlarged without any obvious cause resulting in impairment of the heart. The disease, which has no approved disease-modifying therapeutics, is a significant cause of sudden cardiac death of individuals in any age group, and a leading cause of such death in young athletes.

Research carried out at UCD by the start-up co-founders indicates that this drug targets the mechanisms that drive the abnormal thickening of the

heart muscle which results in the development of this disease.

Dr John Baugh of EpiCor Therapeutics said: “It is an honour for us to win the 2016 UCD Start-up of the Year Award. It is

a great endorsement for us going forward as we work to develop treatments to target a variety of heart diseases, including our initial focus on hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy.”

Founders of EpiCor Therapeutics: Dr John Baugh; Dr Nadia Glezeva and Dr Chris Watson. Picture: Nick Bradshaw

24 November 2016 GAZETTE 13

GAZETTE

14 GAZETTE 24 November 2016

DUBLINLIFE

Paul Brady, legendary singer-songwriter

DIARY

Guinness Choir will put you into the festive spirit at St Patrick’s Cathedral THE Guinness Choir will be holding their much anticipated Christmas Concert in St Patrick’s Cathedral on December 4 at 6.30pm Following the success of last year’s event, singersongwriter Paul Brady will take to the stage as a special guest with the choir for a programme of classical choral music and carols.

The concert will feature the choral suite of the Armed Man by Karl Jenkins, while the choir will also perform three separate short arrangements of the sacred work O Magnum Mysterium

by Victoria, Gabrieli and Lauridsen, as well as traditional Christmas carols.

Tickets are on sale now and are available from www.guinnesschoir.org, and by emailing guinnesschoirtickets@gmail.com.

FRESH NEW TALENT TO SHOWCASE WORK CHECK out the work of Ireland’s most talented young filmmakers at the Irish Film Institute on December 7.

The Fresh Film Festival promotes the work of filmmakers between the ages of 13 and 18.

Each year, hundreds of creative young folks armed with cameras and editing software submit their creations to Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards, with standouts entries being

selected for showcase at festivals and events all over the world.

See the best of young people’s filmmaking in Ireland at the IFI, where you can also hear from the winners and get up close and personal with Q&A sessions.

If you plan on entering Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year 2017, or just love watching films made by talented young filmmakers, this is the place to be.

CHECKING BACK IN TO FAWLTY TOWERS BASIL, Sybil and Manuel of Faulty Towers are coming to the Fitzpatrick’s Castle Hotel on Dec 6 and 7 to serve up an evening of fine dining, mayhem and a fest of comic delights to keep you laughing all the way to dessert.

Basil is manic, Sybil domineering, and Manuel – of course – is hopelessly language-challenged.

Everything that can go wrong, does in some beautifully controlled chaos. Just don’t mention the war!

This multi-award winning show has been winning fans and accolades at Edinburgh, Melbourne and Adelaide Festivals for years and has played over 500 sell out shows in Ireland during the last eight years.

Featuring all the best gags and a great meal, this is the loosely script-

ed, pitch-perfect ‘13th episode’ of the TV series which develops the characters made famous by John Cleese, Prunella Scales and Andrew Sachs.

On the menu you’ll enjoy two hours of sidesplitting, belly-aching fun in this “eat, drink and laugh sensation”.

Tickets are priced at 47.50 and can be purchased at www.paviliontheatre.ie/.

MUSICAL WORLDS COME TOGETHER FOR the very first time, the RTE National Symphony Orchestra are presenting Video Games Classics, a concert of major video game soundtracks and classical music hits.

The massive orchestral scores of World of Warcraft, Resident Evil, Skyrim, Final Fantasy,

Advent Rising and Tetris all feature as do blockbuster classical numbers from The Planets, Mozart’s Requiem, The Firebird and Carmina Burana.

Originally created for the World of Warcraft Expansion, Warlords of Draenor, the extended work Malach has become a fan favourite, garnering millions of YouTube views in its various incarnations.

Soprano Sarah Shine joins for the video game classic, Tetris Opera and Advent Rising.

Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man and classical hits by Debussy, Mussorgsky and Beethoven as featured in The Evil Within and Kingdom Hearts will make this a night to remember.

This event is taking place at the National Concert Hall on Friday, December 2 at 8pm.

Faulty Towers - The Dining Experience develops the characters made famous by John Cleese, Prunella Scales and Andrew Sachs

24 November 2016 GAZETTE 15

APPEAL |

SR STAN LAUNCHES FOCUS IRELAND CAMPAIGN

GAZETTE

FEATURE

Campaign aims to end homophobic and transphobic bullying  MOLLY O’CONNELL

Sister Stan pictured with Rachel Price from Focus Ireland and her two children Aaron and Meabh Compton at the launch of the Focus Ireland urgent Christmas appeal. Picture: Robbie Reynolds

‘It breaks my heart that 2,500 children could be homeless for Christmas’  IAN BEGLEY

SISTER Stan has launched Focus Ireland’s Christmas appeal with a hard-hitting campaign that highlights the record number of homeless.

The new campaign makes an urgent appeal to people to donate to support Focus Ireland’s work challenging homelessness. More than 2,400 children and nearly 1,200 families are homeless in Ireland, according to latest figures.

The campaign features TV, radio and outdoor ads and runs over the coming weeks leading up to Christmas. The outdoor ad features a mother and her child alongside the stark line: “Homelessness. We can’t live like this anymore.”

Focus Ireland launched the campaign outside Government Buildings in Dublin with an admobile featuring the charity’s new poster.

Sr Stan spoke passionately of the terrible impact being homeless has on children – and families - as she said: “Christmas should be one of the happiest times of the year for children and their families.

“However, it breaks my heart to think that up to 2,500 children will be homeless on Christmas Day this year.

“I know from meeting families who are homeless that we support it’s the children who feel it the worst.

“Many times a family who are homeless are often

squeezed into one hotel room – three or four people in one room, nowhere to cook or for children to play. There are also many single people and couples homeless and they all need a place to call home.”

Sr Stan highlighted the vital role Focus Ireland’s lifeline services play in supporting people as Focus Ireland reported that its family team services have supported 230 families and just under 450 children in Dublin to secure a home and escape from the trauma of homelessness in the first 10 months of this year ( In partnership with the Dublin Region Homeless Executive and local authorities).

The charity also supports hundreds of families who are

still homeless and living in hotels and B&Bs. One mother Gillian who was homeless but has now secured a home with support of Focus Ireland said: “When you have a home you don’t realise how lucky you are, my daughter was only two weeks old when we became homeless, I don’t think I’d even be here now if it wasn’t for Focus Ireland, I wake up every day now and think ‘I have a home’.”

Focus Ireland said its new campaign aims to keep homelessness firmly on the public and political agenda in the countdown to Christmas.

People can donate at www. focusireland.ie or 1850 204 205.”

ONE IN THREE young LGBT people aged 14 to 18 has attempted to take their own lives because of bullying, rejection and pressures to hide who they really are, according to a new study.

The findings by LGBT youth group BeLonG To make the strong case that young people are being left behind as Ireland becomes more progressive and inclusive of the LGBT community.

Last week, secondary schools across Ireland took part in BeLonG To’s Stand Up campaign. The aim of this initiative is to end homophobic and transphobic bullying in schools as well as encouraging a safe and supportive environment for young LGBT+ people.

The study showed that bullying puts the mental health, wellbeing and potential of LGBT students at serious risk.

It said students are still reporting high levels of LGBT bullying in Irish post primary schools.

67% of LGBT+ young people witnessed bullying of other LGBT students and over 50% of them personally experienced bullying.

One in four missed or skipped school to avoid negative treatment due to being LGBT+.

Minister for Education, Richard Bruton and BeLonG To are calling on even more post primary schools to participate this year to help address the issue.

Moninne Griffith, Executive Director, BeLonG To said: “Despite the great progress we have made in Ireland with equality legislation and marriage equality, most LGBT students are still facing very tough situations in their schools - rejection, bullying and pressures to hide who they really are.

This has devastating impacts on their levels of selfharm and suicide.”

Richard Bruton TD, Minister for Education said: “I encourage every post primary school in Ireland to get involved in this excellent initiative to empower students to support their LGBT+ friends.

“My Department has provided funding for this initiative since 2013 as part of the implementation of the Action Plan on Bullying.

“We will be working hard over the coming year to continue to advance the Action Plan on Bullying and with Minister Zappone on the LGBT Youth Strategy.”

The campaign also has a strong social media presence, and encourages young people to post pictures with friends, with the #StandUp2016, to show their support.

Visit belongto.org for more information about the Stand-up Campaign.

GOT A STORY? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 2 email news@dublingazette.com



16 GAZETTE 24 November 2016

24 November 2016 GAZETTE 17

 SYLVIA POWNALL

Let the good times roll

WIN

Q UA L I F I E D e n g i n e e r C l i n t o n Gannon has gone from designing bridges to customising skateboards as he puts his expertise to new use.

The 36-year-old decided to pursue a career change during the recession – and as a skater and one-time ice hockey player, is not too surprised at what he’s ended up doing.

Clinton, who has a skate shop in Tallaght and has just opened a second in Swords, said: “I always wanted to have my own business and I saw a gap in the market.

“First off I set up a mobile roller disco and was doing that for a while.

Some weeks were good, some not so good, but I noticed that a lot of parents were inquiring about skates.

“So I set up a website and clocked up a good few sales and decided to open a shop.”

Clinton, from Tallaght, started trading from a cold warehouse in 2014 before moving to his first shop, and opened his second outlet just over a month ago.

He told The Gazette: “In Swords we’re getting a fantastic reaction from everyone who comes into the shop.

The feedback is phenomenal.

“The kids love the idea of customisation and because I’m an engineer I have a great insight into the mechanics and I can buy components and put them together to build up scooters or skates to meet specific requirements.”

Clinton hopes the enthusiasm

shown for his GoSk8.ie outlets will encourage parents to buy their kids a set of wheels for Christmas to help keep them active.

He said: “It’s a bit worrying to hear medical studies say that Ireland is set to become the most obese country in Europe. Of course diet is a big factor but you can’t underestimate the importance of exercise.”

He prescribes exercise – but with a healthy dose of adrenaline and fun thrown in – via the largest range of Heelys in the country to inline and quad skates, skateboards, longboards, scooters and BMX bikes in either full size or mini.

Studies show that aside from learning new skills and keeping fit partaking in extreme sports can give kids a mental boost.

“Being able to face your fears and conquer them is surely something we’d all want our kids to possess,” said Clinton.

“Sports like this aren’t about being reckless, they’re about setting sights on a challenge and training to meet it.”

Clinton is passionate about what he does and GoSk8 sponsors upand-coming skateboarders and BMX riders, as well as actively promoting the fledgling sport of Roller Derby in Ireland.

And who knows, if your little shredder turns out to be a skate prodigy, they might just end up emulating skateboard legend Tony Hawk, who’s thought to be worth a cool $120million.

GazetteGALLERY

| CONNOLLY HOSPITAL NURSING GRADUATES FOR 2016

Andy and Margaret Drew with their daughter Bernadette

Ciara Cox with her granny Olive.

Left: Laura Smith Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON

Looking forward to a long and happy career

Laura Smith with her Dad Barry, mum Elizabeth and sister Louise

Sudha Thangaraj, Maria Dacalos and Sharon Leavy

an

in association with our friends at

IT’S YET ANOTHER GREAT GAZETTE READER GIVEAWAY

WE know you love Dublin Gazette giveaways, and by now you probably know we love them too!

And we’re delighted to be able to give our readers the chance to win such a fantastic prize, with thanks to our good friends at Dublin-based online trading shop, ViberSTORE. We have two recon-

ditioned iPhone SEs – worth €399 each – to give away to two lucky readers. All you have to do is answer the following question: Which Dublin-based trading store will save you the most money when you shop online this Christmas?

You can post your answer on our Facebook iPhone page, or you can email your answer to competitions@ dublingazette.com – please be sure to put “iPhone comp” in the subject line.

This year ViberSTORE has become Ireland’s No 1. Seller for iPhones and

iPads with over 10,000 happy customers and counting.

ViberSTORE.ie sell only the very best iPhones and do not compromise on quality.

You can contact ViberSTORE’s sales team on 01-427 9797 or simply order online on www.viberstore.ie

Leona Farrelly, Jennifer Fee, Laura Smith, Hannah Farrelly and Ciara Cox

Rachel McKeon with her family

Emma Brennan and Rachel McKeon

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 24 November 2016

DUBLINLIFE

O’Connell Street hairdressers colour their way to a top Peter Mark award  EMMA NOLAN

THE biggest night in Irish hairdressing – the Peter Mark ColourTrophy awards – took place last week. On the night, the audience of more than 900 people were treated to a symphony of game-

changing hairstyles in the Double Tree Hilton Hotel.

The overall winner was Peter Mark, O’ Connell Street, with hairdressers Nicole Murtagh and Megan Murphy taking home the prize for their work on their model Louise Gardiner (above).

What ‘supp’ with Roz and a possible treatment to help nourish your skin?  EMMA NOLAN

“IF IT’S good enough for Roz Purcell then it’s good enough for me” – is what I said when I found out about Imedeen supplements.

T hese tablets are skincare supplements that nourish skin from the inside out, targeting the layers of skin that creams don’t reach.

The product comes in three offerings, which cater for varying skin ages; IMEDEEN Derma One tackles the

first signs of ageing and is suitable for women from 25 to 40 years of age; IMEDEEN Time Perfection is a more advanced formula and helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles for

women over 40; IMEDEEN Prime Renewal helps support the needs of post-menopausal skin for women over 50.

Brand ambassador Roz Purcell (left) has been using Imedeen for several months now and says she has really noticed the difference.

T he products are stocked in pharmacies nationwide and one month’s supply of the classic Derma One (suitable for all skin types aged 25 to 40) cost €39.99.

Irish-made Powder n Pout brushes could help perfect make-up IT’S time to brush up on our make-up application skills with Powder n Pout.

Created by Irish make-up artist Aisling Cunningham, Powder n Pout brushes come in sets containing everything you need to create a picture-perfect look.

Powder n Pout are hand-crafted professional yet affordable make-up brushes designed by Aisling herself.

A five piece set for €50, The Flawless Five compact set is designed especially for those on-the-go, providing everything needed to create a staple look, without bulking up your beauty bag.

Powder ‘n’ Pout is available in selected pharmacies across Ireland and online via the website at www.powdernpout.com.

24 November 2016 GAZETTE 19

Penneys

LOOK PERFECT FOR PARTIES THANKS TO

 EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

CAN we take a moment to congratulate Penneys on what is probably their best party season collection yet?

Ireland’s go-to shop has really nailed it this winter, and if you’re lucky enough to find any of these pieces in store in your size I would highly rec-

ommend purchasing immediately! As the usual Penneys prices apply, everything here is affordable.

So, get a few of these bits and you won’t be in a panic figuring out what to wear for all your Christmassy nights outs (no Christmas jumpers, please).

You’ll be killed saying “Thanks hun, Penneys!” all night, but for that pink velour jumpsuit, it’s worth it ...

GAZETTE

STYLE

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DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

Fiat’s new Tipo hatchback returns to the market with a spacious car that’s competitively priced

Fiat returns spacious Tipo to the market Fiat has brought back the Tipo hatchback and station wagon range as it re-enters the C-segment of the Irish car market with the arrival of two new cars that claim roominess and practicality. The cars will be available at Fiat dealerships from January 1 and entry prices are competitive starting at €17,995 for the Fiat Tipo hatchback and €19,245 for the Tipo Station Wagon. The Tipo models will be available with five engine options. There are three petrol engines, a 1.4-litre 16v producing 95hp, a 1.4 T-Jet turbo petrol with 120hp and the 1.6-litre e-TorQ engine producing 110hp (combined exclusively to a six-speed, torque converter automatic transmission).

The two turbo-diesel engines include a 1.3-litre MultiJet II producing 95hp and a 1.6-litre MultiJet II with an output of 120hp. The entry level diesel model comes with an official combined cycle fuel economy figure OF 76.3mpg and CO2 emission are 99g/km for both hatchback and Station Wagon. Fiat claims that the cars deliver class leading legroom and boot space and comes with a high specification from the entry models including air conditioning, Bluetooth and full size spare wheel on all versions.

Nissan replaces Primastar with new NV300 van NISSAN has launched a new NV300 van that replaces the Primastar model to complete its NV van range.

The new van is available as panel van, crew van, or platform cab van and also combi passenger version.

Nissan claims that the van is more practical than ever as it is designed to carry up to three standard Euro pallets even in entry L1 model. The load bay is 110mm longer and a hatch in the cabin bulkhead can be specified to allow for loads up to 3.75 metres and 4.15 metres long.

Depending on the weight of the likely load, it’s possible to specify different versions of the NV300.

For the panel van and crew van there are two Gross Vehicle Weights (2.7 or 2.9 tonne), permitting a payload of 1,073 – 1,310Kg. Four engine options are available on the NV300 all based on the Nissan’s trusted 1.6-litre dCi diesel engine that’s already in use in the Qashqai and X-Trail. Power outputs of 95hp, 120hp, 125hp and 145hp are available. The new NV300 is built in France, is backed by Nissan’s five-year/160,000 km warranty, which also applies to Nissan genuine accessories fitted to the vehicle.

The latest Megane offers fresh design with great deals

Hatchback drivers have a wider choice of cars than ever this year helped by the recent arrival of the new Renault Megane. Renault has transformed the car with new styling and loaded on the safety and driver features to give a different driving feeling to the French brand car.

RENAULT launched a new version of the Megane hatchback car during the year adding to the wider than ever range of hatchback options for car buyers in the mid-range segment of the market.

Renault’s latest offering is attractive to look at and comes with some significant technical changes.

The new look of the fourth generation car is attractive; it sits marginally lower on the road and comes with a longer wheelbase. Renault now claims that the front and rear track widths are the widest in the class to add to improved stability.

The front of the Megane is distinctive using always-on LED lights to give good effect. The rear has similar LED type lights, which are also permanently lit when the engine is switched on.

There are significant

changes to the inside and it feels more quality in terms of touch for the controls, including steering wheel. It comes with a configurable 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) colour instrument display, R-LINK 2 connectivity systems via either a 7-inch landscape or 8.7-inch portrait tablet, Multi-Sense technology to personalise the driving experience.

The higher specification GT versions get the addition of 4Control fourwheel steering.

The Megane comes with a new 5-Star Euro NCAP safety rating well ahead of its launch. The safety gear is impressive including adaptive cruise control, active emergency braking and lane departure warning throughout the range, while connectivity via the R-Link 2 system is fitted to all models above the entry Expres-

sion versions.

Standard safety features include ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, ESC (Electronic Stability Control) with traction and understeer control, speed limiter, Hill Start Assist, six airbags, seat belts with load limiters and pre-tensioners at the front, side impact protection bars and ISOFIX child-seat mounting points on the two outer rear seats.

While Renault is offering a new petrol version of the Megane, I drove the entry level 1.5-litre turbodiesel Megane in GT specification during my test drive, using the wellestablished engine. This car is marginally more fuel efficient than before and the entry model now starts at 110bhp rather 90bhp in the previous versions. That fact alone adds a more competitive

The new look Renault Mégane has impressive modern styling and good space with impressive entry prices starting at €21,490, for the diesel version

Renault Megane 1.5 dCi

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine 1.5 litre Engine power 136hp 0 – 100km/hr 9.6 seconds Economy 27km/litre (3.7/100km or 76mpg)

Fuel Tank Capacity 50 litre

CO2 emissions 96g/km Road Tax Band A2 €180 Main Service 30,000km/12 months Euro NCAP Rating 5 Star 2016 Warranty 5 years/200,000km

Entry Price €21,490

nature of the Megane offer as Renault aim to get the car into the top four in the market.

This engine is cleaner and more fuel efficient than before, helping to lower running costs.

Out on the road, it was possible to appreciate the engine power of

the Megane. The higher specification GT versions have more features, while engine power and performance are almost the same as the standard entry model.

The Megane comes with a smooth six speed gearbox and in the GT version there was a sporty

24 November 2016 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

MOTORING

Volvo moves big car manufacture to China

The most popular model in the new Renault Mégane range will be the one powered by Renault’s 1.5 litre turbo-diesel engine, which in the new model comes with an entry power level of 110bhp.

feel to the driving experience. That was more of an engine sound and a solid handling experience rather than performance as the car is not the fastest in acceleration terms relative to the more usual diesel competition.

Renault also has a 1.6litre diesel engine offering for a more true competitive analysis and that engine produces almost 20% more and torque.

For most drivers the 1.5litre engine will be more than adequate and cost

effective.

I took it across a range of different roads during my test drive afternoon.

The official economy rate of 27km/litre (3.7/100km or 76mpg) is impressive against the competition and makes the new Megane one of the most economical cars in the midsize hatchback segment.

In practice the car is truly economical and I found that I could achieve a range of over 900km on what is a modest size 40-litre capacity diesel

tank. This makes running costs very competitive at €0.26/km and they would be marginally better if the Megane can get market share to help lower the depreciation levels.

The hatchback segment of the car market is now very competitive and the Renault Megane has ground to make up to win back market share. The entry pricing is competitive to start with coupled with competitive running costs.

The car drives and

looks very well helped by the fact that it has a long wheelbase. There is comfortable space up front, while the foot-well area for the pedals is a little tight.

The seats on the GT version are a shade too sporty giving a harsher driving experience on smaller roads. Rear legroom is tight and while there are two rear Iso-Fix mountings for child seats, the space is tight.

The Megane also has a decent size boot, the big-

The Renault Mégane boot is among the most spacious in the segment giving 470 litres storage with the standard boot rising to over 1300 litres with all seats down, but unfortunately there is no spare wheel offered.

gest among the five top sellers that I’ve compared it with. Unfortunately the spare wheel is on the options list for entry models.

This is a car that looks modern, has made good use of in-car technology and is rated very safe.

Add to that low running costs and Megane has to be on many 171 registration shopping lists. For car buyers the Megane offer will be price attractive starting at €21,490 for the diesel version, but that’s not alone the reason for considering it.

Volkswagen Golf gets a major update

Volkswagen’s new Golf for 2017 comes with some subtle design changes and a host of engine and technology updates

VOLKSWAGEN has given the Golf a major update for 2017 with subtle exterior design changes and significant extra features that give the popular car an enhanced technology status. This new Golf is the first compact car to feature gesture control.

Golf will be available with a new and more efficient 1.5 TSI Evo petrol engine with active cylinder management to enhance fuel economy. This new Golf will be available with Volkswagen’s newly developed 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) will gradually replace all 6-speed DSGs for the Golf.

Gesture control can be used in various different menus. All it takes is a swipe gesture to move the horizontally arranged menu items left or right. This allows the driver to scroll through the main menu, change radio stations, flip through the playlist or browse through the picture viewer and albums in the media library.

A “light flare” indicates which options can be operated by gesture control and operation is supported by visual interactive feedback. Successful swipes are also confirmed by a sound effect, which can be deactivated.

Volkswagen claims that the new Golf

comes with a high-end infotainment system with the largest touch-screen display in its class. Volkswagen has expanded the range of online services with the new Golf including a new “Guide & Inform” system as well as “Security & Service” for models with a navigation system. The range of assistance systems in the new Golf will include city emergency braking with new pedestrian monitoring function, traffic jam assist and emergency assist for the first time. Externally there are new front and rear bumper sections. New full LED rear lights are fitted and new LED headlights replace all Xenon headlights.

VOLVO Cars has announced that it will manufacture its top-of-the-range S90 series cars at its plant in Daqing, Heilongjiang province, in northern China. It also announced that production of the new S90 premium saloon will in future be moved from Europe to China. Volvo currently operates two plants in Europe, in Sweden and Belgium.

The Sweden plant in Gothenburg will continue to make 90 series and 60 series cars, while its plant in Ghent, Belgium, will in future be making new 40 series cars. Volvo is also building a new plant in South Carolina in the US market and for export.

The Swedish Volvo brand is now owned by the Chinese based Geely Corporation who bought it from the Ford Motor Company in 2010.

Honda returns with Simple Logic deal HONDA’S 162 Simple Logic is back and this time it is available across Honda Jazz, Honda HR-V a n d Ho n d a C R-V models until the end of the year.

The Honda offer includes a €4,000 guaranteed minimum trade–in offer on all CR-V and a €3,000 guaranteed minimum trade-in offer on all HR-V and Jazz models.

This is coupled with low rate Personal Contract Plan (PCP) finance offers.

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22 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 November 2016

DUBLINLIFE

A night at the Oscars

O

scar’s night in Balbriggan last weekend saw the great and the good of the Moriarty Group lauded for their exceptional service and professionalism. At a dazzling ceremony in the Bracken Court Hotel no less than 55 employees of the popular local supermarket and hotels group won awards. Very much like Hollywood’s Oscars night, the Moriarty Group award-winners and their colleagues and guests partied long into the night proving the adage that those who work hard equally like to play hard too!

The Moriarty gang all glammed up and eagerly anticipating the Oscars. Pictures: STEPHEN FLEMING

Ciara Phelan and Holly Monks

Colm Jolley, Sean Boyd, Mike Fitzgerald, Mihaela Rus and Pat Gheman

Lynn Kavanagh, Patricia Doherty and Emily Ryan

24 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23

 EMMA NOLAN

FEELING Christmassy yet? Get yourself in the spirit with a Festive Afternoon Tea in The Westin Hotel on Westmoreland Street. The Festive Afternoon Tea is served in front of a roaring fire in the Atrium Lounge.

Get into the Christmas spirit by enjoying traditional afternoon

tea with a seasonal t w i s t ; t h i n k f e s t i ve favourites such as roast turkey, spiced Irish beef, oak smoked salmon and almond topped mini mince pie. Then choose from an array of delicate, mouth-watering sandwiches, followed by a selection of enticing sweet treats - homemade cranberr y and pecan scones ser ved

with clotted cream and preserves, eggnog panna cotta, salted caramel mousse with brandy butter popcorn and raspberry macaroons.

Selection

As always, guests can choose from the Westin’s selection of fine leaf teas or gourmet coffees, or enjoy a glass of prosecco or champagne for an extra

special treat (€8/€16 supplement respectively).

Festive Afternoon Tea at the Westin Dublin’s is priced at €36 per person and can be enjoyed from December 1 until January 6. Pre-booking is required.

For reservations, please call the Atrium Lounge on 01 6451324 or email atrium@thewestindublin.com

GAZETTE

Festive favourites to get you into the spirit of Christmas

FOOD&DRINK

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24 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 November 2016

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA ReelReviews

DOCTOR STRANGE Curiously interesting

WHILE Harry Potter fans lay siege to cinemas, Marvel’s Doctor Strange (Cert 12A, 115 mins) is still providing plenty of visual razzle-dazzle (and a touch of magic, too).

Benedict Cumberbatch don a cape, gains strange and mystical powers, and helps Doctor Strange regain some much-needed humility as he and Tilda Swinton create a visually striking and memorable addition to the Marvel cineverse.

Eddie Redmayne (centre) heads up an all-star cast

Rowling’s new franchise is off to a fantastic start IF there were any concerns over whether JK Rowling would succeed in expanding the “wizarding” world outside of her much-beloved (and commercially bulletproof) Harry Potter series, this year’s Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, will comfortably lay those fears to rest.

Despite an overlong run-time for what is ostensibly a kid’s movie, this prequel, directed by Potter franchise regular David Yates, kicks the door wide open for a brand new franchise and has a wonderful, riotously good time doing it.

Set 70 years before the original series, Fantastic Beasts migrates the action to prohibition-era

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

New York City with a surprisingly current thematic commentary, despite its fantastical subject.

E d d i e R e d m ay n e , whose awkward charm has rarely been this endearing, plays Newt Scamander.

As a “magizoologist,” Newt spends his time travelling the world saving magical creatures from extinction.

After arriving in New York, one of his “fantastic beasts” incites a rather chaotic incident involv-

ing a human, Jacob (Dan Fogler).

Consequently, Newt finds himself in the custody of former “Magical Congress of the United States” agent, Tina Goldstein (Katherine Waterston).

Fortunately for us, further magical chaos ensues when Newt’s suitcase full of beasts is misplaced, its contents escaping and reeking havoc on the city.

Meanwhile, darker forces trouble both the wizarding and ‘No-Maj’ worlds Newt, Tina and Jacob get caught up in the middle.

The story, written by Rowling, maintains all the whimsical fantasy of her original series, but underlines everything with some fairly heavy subtext;

the differences between the British and American wizarding worlds go beyond common lexicon (Muggle/No-Maj).

In the States, the divide between these worlds is far more volatile, allowing Rowling to craft a narrative around themes of intolerance, bigotry and social divides, with witchhunting fanatics standing in for lobbying religious groups – contemporary subjects indeed, given the current political state of the US. Rowling and Yates don’t probe too far into these issues – understandably so, for a familyfriendly adventure – and devote most of the twoand-a-quarter hour runtime to madcap chases

through the urban jungle of New York City.

These theme-park style experiments in 3D break absorption, but are a delight to behold.

Fantastic Beasts’ huge cast packs a couple surprise and it’s great to see Fogler make the leap out the realm of the character actor and into the commercial mainstream.

Sure, there’s the odd fatjoke, but Fogler is given plenty to do and heaps of narrative weight to carry.

Hopefully this will secure a few more high-profile roles for the actor.

While Colin Farrell spends most of the plot brooding as Director of Magical Security Percival Graves, Samantha Morton menaces as the sinis-

ter leader of wizard-hating cultists, the “Second Salemers”.

The real stars here, perhaps, are those behind the wonderful creature design, although the more humanoid characters could have benefited from some experimentation in the recent resurgence of practical effects.

While it occasionally suffers from its lengthy run-time, an overabundance of admittedly necessary exposition and a somewhat incoherent narrative threat, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is enormous fun: a smart, fast-paced fantasy adventure and a wonderful beginning to Rowling’s new franchise.

Verdict: 8/10

EDGE OF SEVENTEEN Teen spirit impresses

WE’RE still praising The Edge of Seventeen (Cert 15A, 105 mins), as its teen cast and dilemmas are, for once, pretty entertaining for even adults to sit through. A great cast have fun with their material, and while there’s some depth to some of the situations, for the most part its a witty, breezy and likeable film – and how rare is all that to find in a film for teens? Its one to watch, for sure.

PATERSON

Pure poetry in motion A FILM about a poetic bus driver may not sound like much – and in truth, there’s not a lot going on in Paterson (Cert 15A, 118 mins). However, sometimes less is definitely more, and director Jim Jarmusch has turned in a dreamy, contemplative and almost hypnotic tale about the ordinary being extraordinary, if you just consider it with fresh, thoughtful eyes.

24 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

TECH

Uncharted 4 boasts more color variations and crisper details

CONSOLES: SONY HAS OPTED TO UPGRADE THE PS4 TO PUSH 4K GAMING FORWARD

PS4 Pro takes gaming to the next level

 IAN BEGLEY

THE PS4 Pro is here at last and Playstation 4 games have never looked so good.

The console offers a significant improvement over the existing PS4 title and features 4K output alongside HDR playback capabilities and upgraded internals components that will help games run smoother with even more details.

Developers are now able to start creating games with two modes – PS4 base mode, and “Pro Mode” – that is more taxing and power-consuming than the original system can handle.

After experiencing what the new console is capable of – highly

detailed 4K/HDR gameplay, Ultra-HD media streaming from apps like Netflix and the new Pro Mode – I compared it to the now out of date PS4 system I have at home The most obvious difference between the original PS4 and the PS4 Pro is the addition of an extra layer onto the console.

While the original PS4 had two layers separated by a gap for the disc drive and two USB ports, the PS4 Pro has three layers.

This is the big one – the main reason it’s worth making the jump from the original hardware to the PS4 Pro. The PS4 Pro supports 4K output, as opposed to the standard

With enhanced features on PS4 Pro, Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare takes the signature gameplay of the series into a bold new entry

Tanks will look more realistic and vibrant in World of Tanks

PS4’s Full HD 1080p resolution.

When it comes to streaming services such as Netflix this means that the console will be able to play movies and TV shows in their maximum resolution, but unfortunately the lack of an Ultra HD Blu-ray drive means that the console will not be able to play physical 4K media.

Games are slightly more complicated because it will be up to developers to decide how they want to use the PS4 Pro’s extra muscle.

The PS4 Pro is undoubtedly a substantial step up from the PS4, but ‘true’ 4K gaming is difficult for it to achieve without compromise.

26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 November 2016

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28 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 November 2016

SPORT

FastSport CHRISTMAS TOP SPOT FOR BELVO: OLD Belvedere will go into the New Year as women’s All-Ireland league leaders after their eight-point victory over Galwegians at Anglesea Road, 18-10.

The hosts worked their way into a 10-0 lead in the first half with tries from hooker Jenny Finlay, deploying the afterburners of a winger, and Franziska Klappoth with a mazy run. Ciara O’Connor pulled a try back for Galwegians before half-time.

Laura Feely levelled the game with a try midway through the second half, but Finlay, who had a magnificent game, popped up with her second try. Jenny Murphy, who normally plays at centre, was in the number 10 role today and landed the clinching penalty that gave Old Belvedere an 18-10 verdict.

“It was a strange game with plenty of turnovers,” said Ruth McElroy of Old Belvedere. “Jenny Murphy’s tactical kicking was excellent and when we did manage to keep the ball and go through phases, we played well.”

CROSS COUNTRY: CLONLIFFE HARRIER LOOKING TO BREAK INTO IRISH TEAM

Flynn’s bid for Euro squad spot

 JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

CLONLIFFE Harrier David Flynn has his eyes on one-upping last year’s role as an alternate on the Irish team for the European Cross Country Championship as he aims for a top six position in Abbot-

stown this weekend at the Irish championships.

Flynn – who recovered from injury to finish just outside a place that would have qualified him for a European starting spot last time around – feels he’s better prepared in 2016, having relocated to Letterkenny for training

purposes. “ I t r i e d a d i f f e rent approach this time around,” Fly nn told GazetteSport. “My coach is Andrew Kastor [husband and coach of Olympic marathon star Deena Kastor], and I’ve been following his program from here in Ireland.

Flynn winning the Liberties 6k during the summer

David Flynn impressing during a race in Burgos, Spain recently

“I’ve relocated to Letterkenny for my base season [which focuses on building distance endurance], and found living in a different environment has helped me focus on what I’m doing for training.

“In 2013, I was part of a University of Arkansas team that had an unbelievable set up and won the national championship,” Flynn recalled.

“We were flown to the White House on a private jet to have dinner with Obama. It’s a bit different coming back to Ireland, especially as everyone knows everyone.

“There’s an element of trying to keep what you’re doing in training secret that stops people working together. The States is so big that it doesn’t really work that way. I

need to rebuild my reputation, which can be difficult after being out of the country.”

Flynn also missed out on the elite performance program that came into effect with Athletics Ireland this year.

“I thought I had a good argument,” he says, adding that he believes qualifying on Sunday might help his case for next year.

He accepts that training in part in California – which he does as part of an elite training squad year on year – is a difficulty for the program, but hopes to gain access to facilities like blood and VO2max testing that are vital at an elite level.

“I’m a full time, professional athlete,” he said. “I get a lot of support and sponsorship from Skecher’s and I think I’ve learnt

from last year. It’s a tough competition in Abbotstown [over the weekend].

I’ll be running the course on the Wednesday ahead of the race to trial it. But I pretty much know what I’m up against on the start line.

“I’ve learnt a lot this year,” he concluded. “It’s the Irish way to be charging out at the front in training; to always be giving 110%. I’ve learned to give 80 or 90% in training and run with the pack, and to save that for the races.

“I’m in really good shape and this course is designed to more closely match the European courses. It’s in great condition and a bit different to [regular venue] Santry.

Qualifying will make a big difference to my winter.”

Leinster call-ups for Dublin’s Football for All stars  sport@dublingazette.com

Cabinteely Cougars have been at the forefront of the Football For All club programme. Picture: cabinteelyfc.ie

PLAYERS from Malahide United, Lourdes Celtic, Cabinteely and Sacred Heart have all been named in the first ever Interprovincial match between Leinster and Munster Football For All teams The event will take place in Evergreen FC, Kilkenny on Saturday, December 3 with the two squads selected from trials in each region where over 25 players took part to seal one of 18 places in each squad.

The Leinster squad, who have Kyle Mates, Brian Walsh and

Chris McElligott, have brought players together from around Dublin as well as from Kildare Town.

This match represents a big step forward for the FAI’s Football For All Club programme, which was set up in 2010, and provides opportunities to people with disabilities from communities around the country.

“We are really excited to host the first ever Interprovincial Football For All club inter-regional match and to use the excellent facilities at Evergreen FC in Kilkenny. It is going to be landmark

day for the programme and for the players and coaches involved,” said Oisin Jordan, Football For All National Coordinator.

“The Football For All programme now boasts 33 clubs around the country and we have plans to expand again in 2017.

“We want to continue to provide the best opportunities to players of all levels and the work being done at the respective clubs is terrific.

“Even though these young players have a disability, we still want them to train and compete at a high standard.

“This interprovincial match, between two very talented squads, is something that we are all looking forward to.

“The game will not only have a huge impact on these 36 players’ development but all future players who will get the opportunity to represent their regions.”

Along with regular training at club level, regional blitzes and leagues have allowed children with varying abilities to enjoy football and excel in a competitive environment, while this 11-a-side match stokes up the rivalry of Leinster versus Munster.

24 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

Fantastic Foxes earn All-Ireland final spot

FASTSport

Captain Brophy hails marking effort to nullify twin threats of Cora Staunton and Fiona McHale as FoxCab make key break despite suffering a second half sin-binning, to beat Mayo side ALL-IRELAND SFC SEMI Focrock Cabinteely 4-9 Carnacon (Mayo) 2-11  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

FOXROCK Cabinteely captain Sarah Brophy says her team’s personalised approach to the abundant Mayo stars in All-Ireland semi-finalists Carnacon’s side saw them through to a first ladies football final.

Her side prevailed on a 4-9 to 2-11 scoreline in Bray and were in control for much of the tie.

But a rough period early in the second half saw the legendary Cora Staunton – assisted by four other regular Mayo starters – push on.

The full forward eventually notched 1-7 but the

Dublin side were composed and smart enough to accelerate away in a frantic encounter in spite of a sin-binning.

“We went out to play as a team knowing she’d be their biggest threat,” Brophy said of Staunton, the ten-time All Star.

“Niamh Collins did a great job on her and, in the middle of the field, Laura Nurney took out Fiona McHale.

“We felt if we had those two players under control, the rest of our team would step up around that.”

“The pressure’s quite high,” Brophy admitted of the game.

“But you learn from the games before to get your mind in the right place. Once your mind is

in the right place, we’re physically fit enough and have the talent. It’s just about getting the mind right.

In the first half, Amy Ring’s consistent free t a k i n g w a s ke e p i n g things balanced as both sides threatened.

Amy Connolly scored the goal to give Cabo a half time lead at 1-5 to 1-2, with goalkeeper Laurie Ahern having made a stunning point blank save just before the break to keep the lead.

The second half was a compelling affair, with Cabo stretching their lead through a neatly slotted goal from Laura Nerney, before Carnacon enjoyed a period of dominance, topped off as an Amy Dowling pot-

Foxrock/Cabinteely are one game away from winning their first ever All-Ireland title, adding to Dublin and Leinster crowns. Picture: Peter Hickey/GAApics.com

shot was fumbled into her own net in a misjudgement by Ahern.

When Lorna Fusciardi was sin-binned for the Dubs, they looked in trouble, but not so, as two fantastic forward moves saw them took control a girl down, after the Dubs had dragged themselves level. First Connolly played in Sine-

you in the game,” the captain reflected.

“I think when we got a yellow card, that really lifted us, and I think we ended up getting two goals when we down a player.

“It was the same when their second goal went in. I think we responded quite well today when adverse things happened

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

‘We fell at this hurdle last year and were kicking ourselves. It means everything after last year’ - Sarah Brophy -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ad Goldrick, who blasted under Mayo keeper Michelle Higgins.

A couple of minutes later, Fiona Claffey was the provider, as she looped a ball across the face of Higgins’ goal for Anne-Marie Murphy to fist powerfully in.

There were to be flashes of hope for Carnacon, who briefly closed the gap back to three points, but Cabo stretched the lead to beyond a score and then played out time. They held possession as the clock ran out for Staunton’s side in an exceptional contest, with Cabo taking a 4-9 to 2-11 win.

“Amy Connolly was unreal,” Brophy added afterwards. “Every time there’s a ball to go for she gets on the end of it, and normally gets a score out of it.

“It’s unusual what lifts

to us.

“It’s very high intensity and if we create opportunities, we have excellent forwards who can finish them.

“The girls really made a difference to us today.

“They’re all such good finishers that you can give the ball to whoever’s in the best position, and it doesn’t matter who’s on the end of it, it doesn’t matter who’s there once someone gets it.”

Foxrock Cabinteely go on to face Monaghan side and reigning All Ireland champions Donaghmoyne in the All Ireland final on December 4.

“It means everything after last year,” she concluded. “We fell at this hurdle and we were kicking ourselves because we thought we had what it takes. Fortunately this time we did.”

Andrews and O’Neill launch annual Primary 5s blitzes REPUBLIC of Ireland Manager, Martin O’Neill and former international Keith Andrews were on hand to launch the SPAR FAI Primary School 5s Programme in Aviva Stadium.

The five-a-side school blitzes are open to boys and girls from fourth, fifth and sixth class, and puts emphasis on fun and inclusivity. SPAR and the FAI are looking to trump last year’s participation figures, which saw 1,267 schools and 23,736 children lace up their boots to take to pitches around the country.

Registration opens in December and closes on February 17, and county blitzes will kick off at the end of February.

Winning schools progress from county level to regional then provincial finals with the lucky few making it all the way to the national finals, which will be held in the home of Irish football, Aviva Stadium, on May 31.

The programme is an initiative organised by the Football Association of Ireland Schools (FAI Schools). SPAR’s support of the competition has been in place since 2015, and has seen participation figures grow to become the largest primary school’s competition in the country.

Speaking about the programme Colin Donnelly, SPAR Sales Director commented: “SPAR are very proud to be involved with this programme which gives almost 24,000 boys and girls nationwide the opportunity to represent their school in a national level competition.

“The level of enthusiasm shown by students and teachers taking part in the programme has been fantastic and is helping to drive the programme to new levels.

Sean Carr, FAI Schools chairman added: “The competition has gone from strength to strength in recent years thanks to the assistance of our sponsors, SPAR. “The nationwide spread of schools who are choosing to take part, and the increase in female participation, which now stands at 9,320 students is particularly pleasing. I would encourage all primary schools to sign up, and experience the positive benefits of the programme first hand.”

GAZETTE

30 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 November 2016

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: SHERIDAN RELISHING HIS RETURN TO CLUB MANAGEMENT

Bluebell cruise into Metro second round BLUEBELL United cruised into the second round of the Metropolitan Cup with a huge 8-1 win over Verona in Blanch as they made their Sunday Senior quality tell against their lowerranked rivals.

Peter Rogers began the rout, en route to a personal hat trick, to continue his fine form since returning from injury.

James O’Brien also landed a double while Sean Byrne, Shane Stritch and Steven Larkin also weighed in with goals in the comprehensive victory.

They join fellow local sides Dublin Bus, 4-2 winners over Confey, and Glenville, who received a bye, in the last 32 of the LSL’s biggest cup competition.

Peamount United, however, bowed out of the competition at the first round stage with a 4-0 defeat to Firhouse Clover. Lucan United fell 2-1 to Greenhills/Greenpark.

St Francis man scores for Irish Under-15 side ST FRANCIS’S Conor Carty was on the mark in the second of the Republic of Ireland Under15’s games againsty Poland last week, a 2-1 defeat in Lomza.

Jason Donohue’s

side led 1-0 at the break when Carty found the net with a looping header from a Ronan McKinley corner in the 10th minute.

But a 45th minute penalty from Filip Szymczak and a header seven minutes later from the same player swapped the lead early in the second half.

Dublin Bus’s Sunday Senior 1 side have moved up to third place in their league

Bus strike down Glenville LSL SUNDAY SENIOR 1

Dublin Bus 2 Glenville 0  KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

DUBLIN Bus have kept their promotion push going by recording their third win in a row, a 2-0 defeat of neighbours Glenville in the LSL Senior Sunday 1.

The impressive win over a side that competed in the top division last season pushed them into third position and comes on the back of recent victories over Glebe North and Swords Celtic.

They now sit behind Newbridge Town on goal

difference and one point off Portmarnock at the top but with a game in hand over their rivals.

Alan Flood gave the home side the lead with a great header after good work from Gareth Kenna down the wing.

The game remained a tight affair until substitute Alex O’Callaghan finally secured the three points for his team late on through a powerful run and clinical finish.

Dublin Bus manager Darren Sheridan is enjoying his first season in charge of the team and spoke to GazetteSport about his delight at his side’s form.

“It was a fantastic win, very important that we got a result against Glenville because it kept us up near the top of the league.

It keeps everyone focused on what we want to do, which is win the league.”

Many supporters of the team would have taken great delight at beating a local rival but Sheridan was just happy with the three points.

“It is my first season managing Dublin Bus after been out of football for the last seven years so I didn’t really know anything about rivalries other than it was a local derby.

“But I’d imagine that the lads themselves

would have wanted to have a scalp over their local rivals.

“For me, it was another match where we wanted to get another three points and keep us focused on what we want to achieve.”

Dublin Bus has now won seven of their opening 12 games, which included strong draws away to Portmarnock and at home to Home Farm, something Sheridan puts down to the spirit within the camp.

“We’ve been excellent, I have to say. The spirit in the team is one that I haven’t been around in a long time. We’ve come

from behind in a lot of matches this season, epitomised by our game in Dunboyne we went down to 10 men and were losing 3-2 in the 92nd minute but came back and won the game 4-3.”

Next up for Dublin Bus in the league is an away tie to Leixlip United tomorrow evening, where Sheridan is expecting another tough challenge.

“It will be a very tough game down there because they’ve just gotten a great result beating Home Farm 2-0 so I’m looking forward to it.

“You want to be playing these games that test you.”

24 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

FOOTBALL: CLENDENNING PLAYS KEY ROLE IN PLAYOFF WIN

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ROUND TOWER, CLONDALKIN OUR senior footballers are into the AFL2

ballers who head to Scotland next week-

play-off final following a very good vic-

end. Best wishes to the U-15 footballers

tory away to Naomh Mearnog over the

who are playing Coatbridge Gaels in a

weekend. Well done to the lads and we

challenge match. This is the return visit

wish you the best for the final.

to Coatbridge following their visit to

The final will be played this coming

Round Tower and Clondalkin in the sum-

Sunday at 2pm with the venue and oppo-

mer of 2015. Wishing everybody an enjoy-

sition (Clontarf or St Anne’s) to be con-

able and safe trip.

firmed. We will be encouraging a strong

The Round Tower disco will take place

turn-out of support to help the lads in

this coming Friday from 7.30pm to 9pm.

their push for premier league status in

As ever, it is open to fourth to sixth class

Dublin football.

pupils. Admission is €5 with full shop

Our junior hurlers are also in league

Round Tower’s held off the challenge of Naomh Mearnog despite two red cards.

Tower’s 13-men ride luck to brink of AFL1 AFL DIV 2 PLAYOFF

Naomh Mearnog 1-12 Round Tower, Clondalkin 1-14  MICK MCGLYNN sport@dublingazette.com

ROUND Tower are one game away from promotion back to the top tier of league football in Dublin following as their steely determination and disciplined tackling, with a clinical edge, saw them beat Naomh Mearnog by two points in Portmarnock.

The considerable number of travelling supporters were aware of Towers intent from the off.

Trevor Clendenning kicked the first of his five points within two minutes, followed up by a James Kelly curler while Jason Joyce was also on the mark.

The dominant start was augmented when Micheal Walsh netted on the 12 minute mark. Dan Gregg and fellow corner back Niall Byrne set the

move in motion with Derek Murray carrying play forward.

He popped to Walsh and, one-on one, he calmly slotted his low strike across the keeper into the left corner. Mearnogs, though, responded instantly and their own green flag was raised, beating keeper Gar y Cleary with a low strike to reduce the gap to two points.

But the Clondalkin side rebuilt their strong advantage as the half pushed on with Clendenning slotting over from the right before Thomas Galvin who poked over on the stretch.

Another couple of Clendenning scores and another from Galvin were counter-acted by a couple of Naomh Mearnog points, ending the first half 1-10 to 1-5.

It was a strong position to build from and Tower’s started the second period, once again,

on the front foot. They almost netted after Joyce won a diagonal Ward pass and Clendenning was released on goal.

The pull-back on him resulted in Joyce tapping the free over. Walsh then struck a sublime point from the right sideline, curling inside the post.

It was three in succession within the opening five minutes when Joyce fielded high and had the strength to kick a point instantly on the turn.

However, a serious setback arrived on the seventh minute when Jason Murphy was shown a red card.

And the Portmarnock hosts sensed an opening.

Mearnogs got a greater foothold on the game but only managed to kick two points because of Tower’s discipline in defending.

Tower’s needed another score and it arrived on 22 minutes courtesy of Niall Lanigan with a terrific long-range kick

that curled over from the right. Mearnogs threw everything at Tower’s and tagged on five points in the final 10 minutes to give a real scare.

And Tower’s had to see out the final minutes with 13 following Niall Byrne’s dismissal for a second yellow card.

Two glimpses of goal did arrive but sufficient pressure was applied to force Mearnogs forwards to strike over.

And Tower’s composure in the final minutes saw them keep possession with substitutes Mark Taylor, Liam Connolly and Stephen Bracken playing a lead role.

The composure enabled Towers to leave Portmarnock with a terrific win that tees them up for an AFL2 final showdown.

The final will be played next Sunday at 2pm, with the opposition being the winners of Clontarf and St Anne’s in the second semi-final.

available.

final action this weekend. They line up

Bingo continues in the club every

against Wild Geese at 2pm on Sunday in

Tuesday with a jackpot of €1,000 being

the AHL8 final.

available. Game is usually €90 - €150,

The fixture is at home at Monastery

otherwise €20 for a full house. First call

Road and again we urge strong support

is 8.30pm and all are welcome to join in

for the lads competing in this final game.

the fun.

Given the senior footballers and jun-

Round Tower Lotto (November 14)

ior hurlers finals this coming Sunday,

jackpot: €10,000. Numbers drawn were

we have to reschedule the AGM that was

2, 19, 21 and 24; the bonus ball was 26. No

to be hosted that day. Instead, our AGM

overall winner and no bonus ball winner;

will be taking place Sunday, December 4

three €100 winners: Declan Fennelly,

in the clubhouse at 4pm.

Richard Keane and Vera Cooke. Thanks

Best of luck to our U-13 and U-15 foot-

to all who participated.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN Thanks to Patricia McCrea who organTHE lotto numbers for this week were 13, 17 25 and 26. There was no winner so next

ised all the teams and the collections at

week the jackpot will be €1,200.

the end of each shift.

The draw takes place in the Palmers-

Our annual Mass will take place in the

town House every Sunday night at 10pm

Clubhouse on Saturday, November 26 at

and tickets cost €2. Thank you to all our

8pm and all are welcome.

sellers and to all that support our lotto

Big congrats to the U-13s footballers on their shield win in Tower’s tourna-

every week.

Tickets are available from all the usual

ment. Thanks to Tower’s for organising.

sellers including Moriarty’s Supervalu,

Our U-9 hurlers made the journey to

Palmerstown House and Manor Hair

a fresh Bohernabreena on Saturday to

Studios.

play a great game against St Anne’s, well

Our Friday hurling and camogie skills continues on Friday and will be on from

A great win on Saturday for our minor camogie team with a score of 5-5 to 2-8.

6-7pm next week.

Everyone welcome.

done to all the lads.

It’s a great

chance for the kids to learn from experienced coaches.

A big thanks to Moriarty’s SuperValu and to all our juvenile teams who took part in the bag pack at the weekend.

Excellent performance all round.

New members welcome at all ages, full training will be given and check out our website for training times.

Best of luck to all our teams in action this week.

LUCAN SARSFIELDS THE club’s AGM will take place on Thurs-

The intermediate football relegation

day, November 24 at 9pm in the function

playoff against Craobh Chiarain has

room.

been refixed for Saturday, November 26

Last Thursday saw a good attend-

at 2pm. At the same time in Silver Park,

ance at the annual Mass for deceased

the U-21 hurlers kick off their champi-

members and family. Fr John celebrated

onship with a game against Kilmacud

and in his homily, managed to link Lucan

Crokes.

Sarsfields, Leonard Cohen and WB Yeats.

Fair play.

The U-21 footballers kicked off their brief season with a challenge game

The minor B camogie lost a champion-

against Thomas Davis on Saturday

ship encounter away to Naomh Mear-

evening while, at the same time, the U-12

nog, while the minor C camogie side had

ladies footballers were entertaining a

a more comprehensive win at home

visit and challenge game from Clara, Co

against Ballyboden.

Galway.

32 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 24 November 2016