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Family’s desperate plea to find autistic son’s dog  SYLVIA POWNALL

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A MUM has issued a heartfelt plea for the safe return of her autistic son’s dog.

Chihuahua puppy Mojo ran off almost two weeks ago, leaving ten-year-old Sean, left, distraught at the

loss of his best friend.

Mum Tara Matthews from Tallaght said they are refusing to give up hope and are still searching “high and low” for the eight-monthold family pet.

She said: “Mojo is Sean’s best friend, his little com-

panion. Sometimes he’s the only one who can calm my boy down.

“Sean is still distraught and crying his eyes out, all the time. He got Mojo for his tenth birthday and they’ve been inseparable ever since.

“He’s sobbing his little heart out at night looking out the window when it’s dark out because it’s so cold and wet and he’s thinking about his little pal out there all alone.”

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2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 17 November 2016

NEWSBriefs Enterprising South Dublin students host market day SCHOOLS in South Dublin have united to host a market day where the public can buy products that have been developed by local students ahead of next year’s Student Enterprise Awards.

SEA 2016-2017, which launched in September, sees approximately 18 South Dublin schools involved and more than 1,000 students participating, incorporating approximately 283 individual business ideas.

The selection of participating South Dublin schools will host the market day on December 1st at St Jude’s GAA Club from 10.30am – 2.30pm.

The schools have come together to create an opportunity for their students to sell the products they’ve been working hard to develop since September.

The Local Enterprise Office is calling on locals to come on down and show their support to the students of South Dublin for what promises to be an inspirational morning and afternoon.

The Student Enterprise Programme is an awards programme run

by Local Enterprise Offices in each region of the country where secondary students compete to be awarded first place at the National Awards Final in Croke Park in April. The challenge is to come up with an innovative business idea and develop it to a stage where they generate sales.

To find out more see studententerprise.ie or contact the South Dublin Student Enterprise Awards coordinator Amanda Moore on 0874533465.

COUNCIL | SITUATION ‘SPIRALLING OUT OF CONTROL’

60 percent rise in homelessness in South Dublin

FASTNews

Give up a guilty pleasure to save a starving child’s life

 SYLVIA POWNALL

THERE has been a 60% increase in homelessness in south Dublin since January, shock new figures show.

South Dublin County Council has confirmed that the number of people in the SDCC area registered as homeless has jumped from 274 in January to 439 in October.

Deputy Eoin O Broin described the statistics as “shocking but not surprising” and warned that the crisis was being allowed to “spiral out of control”.

The Sinn Fein housing spokesman added: “These figures do not include those sofa surfing, overholding on their private rental accommodation or turned away from the homeless desk in Tallaght.

“The real homeless figure for the county is considerably higher. There are a number of factors pushing more and more people and families into homelessness.

High rents, home repossessions, relationship breakdown are all contributing factors.”

He called for the immediate introduction of rent certainty regulation and a moratorium on house repossessions until a new arrears regime was in place to reduce the number of evictions.

But, he warned: “The number one cause of homelessness is the lack of housing.”

Shock figures just released show that the number of homeless people in South Dublin has gone up by sixty percent since January

Meanwhile SDCC has passed a motion calling for an equitable spread of social housing across the county.

Clondalkin is already earmarked for several infill developments at sites in St Mark’s Green, Lett’s Field, St Cuthbert’s and Oldcastle.

Welcoming this Cllr Jonathan Graham (SF) said: “Myself and my party colleagues not only voted for but extensively lobbied the local community for their support for each project.

“Notwithstanding the fact that there is more housing needed in Clondalkin, something which we will continue to argue for and support the delivery of more units in Clondalkin, there is an obvious need for social and emergency

accommodation in other parts of the county.”

The plan before councillors for emergency and social housing was reliant in the majority on delivery in north Clondalkin and west Tallaght.

Cllr Graham said: “Council management cannot nor should not expect these areas to carry all the housing delivery for the entire county. St Mark’s estate for example was expected to take additional development alongside the planned infill at present.

“To perpetually seek to develop in the one immediate area is not only bad planning, it places a burden on already stretched services.

The area needs to develop in tandem with planned housing.”

‘We’re not giving up hope’  CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 MOJO, who is tan in colour with a white belly, escaped from the house on Friday, November 4 at around 3pm, and was gone for around five minutes before the family noticed him missing.

A dog matching his description was later spotted at the Luas stop where he was picked up by two boys who boarded the tram with a tan Chihuahua and got off at the

Kylemore stop on the Naas Road.

Tara said: “He was probably running in and out of the traffic and the two boys picked him up to stop him from being knocked down.

“They were probably trying to save him b u t now we

would love for him to come home safe to us.

I would hope that somebody might hand him in anonymously to a local vet or a dog pound.

“They don’t have to give a name and there will be no questions asked.”

Tara is also offering a cash reward and a Facebook page, Please

Find Our Mojo Ireland, has attracted a huge following.

Mojo is microchipped and anyone with information should contact 085 2360990, the DSCPA (lost@dspca.ie) or Tallaght Garda Station (01 6666000).

Tara said: “We’re heartbroken. The house is just so dead without him. To see Sean’s sad eyes is just awful, but we’re not giving up hope of getting Mojo back home safe.”

TALLAGHT man Jonathan Power is urging people to give up a guilty pleasure for 24 hours to raise vital funds for children dying of hunger.

The 37-year-old, who is Concern Worldwide’s community fundraising manager, is co-ordinating the agency’s annual fast on November 24.

Devoted aid worker Jonathan, from Aylesbury in Tallaght, wants those who don’t feel they can manage the fast to forego other comforts such as social media, television, coffee or smoking.

Jonathan, above, said: “Traditionally Concern Fast focused on giving up food, but now it can include any activity or habit. We would urge as many as possible to take part in what is also a fun way to help our ongoing efforts to reduce the number of children suffering from hunger, illness and extreme poverty around the world.”

About three million children die each year from malnutrition – an average of 8,220 a day. A donation of just €24 is enough to feed a child for a month.

People can sign up for Concern Fast at concern. net/fast or by calling 1850 50 50 55 – and participants can also engage with Concern on Twitter @ Concern , Facebook, Snapchat and on Instagram.

Santa cycle to aid Crumlin THE Dublin Santa Cycle takes place on December 4 organised by the Laurels Charity Crew in Clondalkin.

The fundraiser sees Santa-suited cyclists follow a 7km route from the Phoenix Park to the Laurels to raise money for Crumlin Children’s Hospital.

This year the Laurels group has teamed up with Straight Ahead and is fundraising for the orthopaedic department at the hospital. You can get into the festive feeling and raise money for a good cause for as little as €30 per person or €60 for a family.

And that covers the cost of a Santa suit and one set of lights for each person cycling the 7km route.

There will also be spot prizes for the best

Call for Tidy Towns group

THERE have been renewed calls for a Tidy Towns committee to be established in the Bawnogue and Cherrywood area of Clondalkin.

Independent Cllr Francis Timmons, who lives in Cherrywood, wants to see the idea take hold.

He told The Gazette: “I have been concerned with the issue of litter in our area for some time and I think the best way to deal with it is a community initiative such as a Tidy Towns group.”

Illegal dumping, burnt out cars and rat infestations have blighted the landscape along St Cuthbert’s Road for a number of months.

Cllr Timmons added: “We can work together as a community in tackling this and come up with solutions and a plan to make our area a nicer place.”

For information contact Cllr Timmons at 087 2869315 or email ftimmons@cllrs.sdublincoco.ie

17 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3

PEOPLE | DUBLIN TEEN CARRYING NATION’S HOPES TO JUNIOR EUROVISION

From a duet with Whitney to singing out for Ireland  SYLVIA POWNALL DUBLIN teenager Zena Donnelly is hoping nerves don’t get the better of her as she prepares to take to the stage in Malta this Saturday to represent Ireland in Junior Eurovision.

The 14-year-old from Blackrock flew out to the contest at the weekend and is hoping her song, Brice Ar Bhrice, which was written in Irish, will wow the judging panel.

Zena – a student at Scoil Lorcain in Monkstown – first made headlines in 2010 when she was plucked from the audience to sing with soul legend Whitney Heuston during one of her last concerts in Dublin.

She was only seven at the time, but her homemade banner (which read, “I love you Whitney, can I sing with you?”) prompted the pop diva t o i nv i t e There aren’t many people her up on who can claim to have sung stage. with the late, great Whitney She beltHouston – but Dublin teen ed out The Zena Donnelly did, in 2010 Greatest

Love of All with her idol – and the footage went viral on YouTube.

Now, Zena is hoping her experience will stand her in good stead as she represents Ireland in Junior Eurovision, having beaten a field of 32 other acts to qualify for the finals.

She said: “My song is Brice Ar Bhrice, or ‘Brick By Brick’ in English, and I can’t wait to get up on stage and sing it live in Malta.”

Zena already has an impressive CV under her belt. She won RTE’s talent contest, Show Off or Get Off, and played the lead role in Annie The Musical at the National Concert Hall.

She also performed as a special guest at the Childline concert in the 3Arena alongside Olly Murs, Boyzone and McBusted.

More recently, she was cast in the lead role of Sarah in the TV series, Spooky Stakeout.

But her biggest breakthrough, to date, came with her casting in the movie A Christmas Star starring Liam Neeson, Pierce Brosnan and Kylie Minogue.

However, singing and songwriting is Zena’s first

love, and she’s hoping to do her country proud on Saturday night.

“It’s brilliant, a fantastic experience,” she said.

Zena, who designed her own quirky costume for the final, added that getting to represent Ireland was made all the sweeter since she narrowly lost out to Ireland’s first ever Junior Eurovision finalist, Aimee Banks, i n 2015.

Zena in full voice, singing wonderfully on TV

4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 17 November 2016

Young mum begged for her life during ex’s brutal attack  SYLVIA POWNALL

Jessica Bowes

A FORMER soldier who kicked and punched his ex in a “merciless” attack outside her Clondalkin home will be jailed, a judge ruled last week.

Coked-up Jonathan McSherry punched Jessica Bowes to the ground, kicked her repeatedly and dragged her along the ground continuing to punch her during the assault last December.

The mum who begged for her life - lost consciousness twice as McSherry, 34, inflicted multiple fractures to her eye sockets, face and skull. The imprint of a shoe was left on her face and there were boot

marks under her chin.

Judge Melanie McGreally condemned the “brutal acts of violence” committed by McSherry of Cedarbrook Walk, Cherry Orchard, Dublin. He pleaded guilty to assault causing harm at Grange View Way, Clondalkin on December 20, 2015.

Footage of the sickening attack, played in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, showed the ferocity of the savage beating. Ms Bowes said she thought she was going to die. The assault left her with permanent scarring and nerve damage and unable to close her lips fully.

She had a metal plate put into her face. Her memory was impaired and she relied on her 10-year-old daughter to remind her of the younger children’s birthdays.

Ms Bowes said she was now overprotective of her children and in a constant state of anxiety. She had nightmares about McSherry and became paralysed with fear and “trapped in a nightmare”.

Judge Greally remanded McSherry on continuing bail until December 21 so he can continue his treatment for drug addiction.

She said a jail term was inevitable given the severity of the assault and of the injuries.

Garda Stephen Kelly told the court there was a barring order placed against McSherry the previous January. On the night of the attack, the victim and two pals were getting a lift to her home from a nightclub.

McSherry was waiting at the house and jumped on the car, smashing its front window with his fists. He then began his attack, punching the victim up to eight times. Counsel said McSherry, who has two young children with the victim, had no words to express his remorse for his actions.

Clondalkin school’s clouded in mystery

WE were on cloud nine when talented Gazette reader Noel Graham sent us in this fantastic photo of a UFO-like cloud which was hovering over Colaiste Bhrid in Clondalkin. If you have a great photo you’d like to share with your fellow Gazette readers, please email it into us at picturedesk@ dublingazette.com. Happy snapping folks!

17 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5

6 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 17 November 2016

GazetteGALLERY

| ENJOYING THE LIFFEY VALLEY LIGHT UP THE NIGHT SALE

On the hunt for the best bargains Hazel Donelan, Stacey Farrell and Saoirse Fogarty

Above: Roisin and Keelin Galvin.

Left: Emma O’Connell.

Pictures: Andres Poveda

Faye Walsh, Natalie Carey and Emilly Roach

T

HE evenings may be darker, but the Light Up The Night Sale at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre was doing its best to brighten them up. Bargain hunters flocked to commercial centre for a night of exclusive in-store deals and much more! There was also fashion workshops, music by 98FM DJ Stephen Cooper, food tasting, entertainment, spot prizes for some lucky customers and a cosy chill out zone where you could sit back, relax and take it easy.

Joanne Northy, Rosie Connolly and Carla Jackson

Cora O’Toole, Caitlin McGuire, Aisling Kenna and Aoife Whelan

Dayna Benson and Rachel Redmond

Molly and Sinead Brior

17 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 7

8 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 17 November 2016

FASTNews Man stole nearly €8,000 from his own bank account

A MAN who stole almost €8,000 from his own bank account after it held funds that didn’t belong to him will be sentenced next February.

Conor McKee, 26, withdrew cash in three different locations because he was worried he would be caught. He said he hadn’t used his account in six months and then noticed that a large amount of cash had been lodged into it.

He acknowledged in interview that he knew the money wasn’t his and wondered where it had come from.

“I had no money and it appeared in my account,” McKee told gardai. He said he didn’t know anyone else had access to his account. He said he had spent the money on food, drink and trips away with his partner.

McKee of Meile An Ri View, Balgaddy, Clondalkin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to stealing a total €7, 939.35 from Bank of Ireland in three different locations on April 24, 2014. He has 22 previous convictions including 21 for road traffic offences. The court heard the funds were lodged by means of a forged cheque made payable to McKee, but gardai were satisfied he had nothing to do with the lodgement.

He was remanded on continuing bail to February 23, 2017 for a probation report.

Delays to the extension of Kingswood school a worry CONCERNS have been raised over delays in building an extension to Kingswood Community College.

The second level school is due to take in 1,000 pupils next September but there is no sign of the promised new build.

Residents of Kingswood Heights have raised the issue and now Cllr Charlie O’Connor (FF) has taken up their case.

He said the school was already under pressure to cater for student numbers in temporary accommodation and the lack of clarity around the scheme was unacceptable.

Education Minister Richard Bruton informed him that the project had been cleared to go to tender – and construction should start in early 2017.

Minister Bruton added: “Once on site it will take approximately 24 months for the building to be completed.”

But Cllr O’Connor said: “We now need to know what the real position is regarding the building programme for Kingswood Community College.”

Eagerly-awaited Christmas event comes to The Orchard IT’S all Christmas all day at The Orchard today (November 17) with the store holding its famous customer appreciation event. This is one of the most eagerly-awaited events for shoppers in Celbridge with The Orchard offering 20% off all Christmas items throughout the store from 9am-9pm.

The Orchard will have a large selection of prizes to be won and visitors will also be first for news of The Orchard’s annual Christmas giveaway on social media. Visitors can also look forward to the return of the famous Orchard donkeys Nelly and Rosie.

UNITED SURVIVORS GROUP | PRESSURE GROUP SAYS CHURCH AND  SYLVIA POWNALL ABUSE, betrayal, malnutrition, forced slavery, illegal adoptions, neglect – just some of the words survivors of mother and baby institutions associate with their lost childhood.

Others include separation, suffering, human trafficking, living bereavement and identity theft.

The chilling list was read aloud by Cllr Francis Timmons at the official launch of a new organisation – United Survivors Group – launched in Clondalkin earlier this month.

Francis, 45, who spent his early years at Sisters of Mercyrun Madonna House in Blackrock, was joined by David Kinsella, Terri Harrison and Tony Kelly, who registered the new group in his Kilnamanagh, Tallaght home.

He said: “Those words are etched in the memory of many survivors’ minds as they live dayto-day. We ask for our Minister for Children Katherine Zappone

and the commission to listen to the survivors.

“The women who did nothing wrong. My mother Mary Timmons did nothing wrong, neither did thousands of other women.

“The Church and State must do right by the thousands of people they let down, the commission must include all the people currently excluded so that we create a proper record of the awful abuse, cruelty and neglect suffered by thousands of children.

“The Church and State must listen to survivors – these are the people who lived it.”

The pressure group want to be included in a State apology and redress scheme, and calls for an end to offensive labelling and the use of the word “home” to describe the Catholic-run institutions.

Group secretary Terri Harrison said: “I cringe when someone labels me a birth mother because I never was one.

“Another one is to call them a mother and baby ‘home’. They

didn’t exist. They were slave camps, prison camps.”

Parkwest resident Terri added: “I was a target carrying a very expensive commodity. Our pressure group will challenge the wrongs of the past.

“We did nothing wrong. In our living bereavement some of us are still hoping to hold our adult child again.”

Guss O’Connell, Mayor of South Dublin County Council, is honorary patron of the group and he joined the founding members at the launch in Aras Chronain.

Tony Kelly said: “What angers me is it didn’t have to be this way.

And I am not the only one who has been robbed of a chance to meet my mother.”

Full details of the group’s aims are outlined on its website – www.unitedsurvivorsgroup. com.

Francis said: “We can reach out across the world and discover other survivors, we can unite worldwide – we have now found a global platform.”

‘My mother did Councillor Francis Timmons, Terri Harrison, Tony Kelly and David Kinsella are all survivors of mother and baby institutions which include (inset)

David’s story DAVID Kinsella was born ‘child number 1629’ at St Patrick’s facility on the Navan Road.

He says his medical records from the church-run institution prove that he was used for medical trials – given repeat doses of vaccines he did not need, hospitalised for lengthy periods six times, and suffering malnutrition and blood disorders.

David joined his new family in Clondalkin at the age of four, but did not learn that he was adopted until he was 11.

Years of searching unsuccessfully for his mother drove him to drink and he spiralled into alcoholism and prescription drug abuse, but managed to turn his life around after a stint in rehab in his mid 20s.

The 58-year-old suffered horrific abuse throughout his childhood, and his mother died of bowel cancer before he got the information he needed to meet her.

But he discovered he had a sister, Emma, living in the UK. She flew to Dublin to meet him, shared stories of his mother Elizabeth, and they cried over what might have been.

However a few months later David suffered another heardbreaking rejection when Emma emailed him saying his other siblings didn’t want to meet him because their lives had ‘evolved’.

That was 11 years ago but David, still clinging to hope, sent one last email a few weeks ago in a bid to reach out.

“My door is always open,” said the dad-of-six. “I will always be grateful to her for coming to meet me and telling me a little about our mum.”

Tony’s story TONY Kelly from Kilnmanagh in Tallaght was born in 1946 as the love child of a married man and a pretty young housemaid. He was placed in the care of nuns at St Teresa’s mother and baby facility in Blackrock. After suffering a litany of abuse at nine foster homes across Ireland he left for the UK age 16 and stayed there for 20 years carving out a career as a champion wrestler. After decades of denying his roots he came home and set about a 31-year search to find his biological mother. But Tony was lied to by the authorities, and the wrong woman was identified as his mother – this resulted in him attending his birth mother’s funeral without realising it was her. His search only ended in 2013 when an 84-year-old woman sent him a letter outlining the facts he had spent most of his life searching for.

Tony, now 70, said: “I was devastated that my mother was dead but delighted that I finally knew the truth. Everything the lady said was true. She even realised I had a sister who was born a year before me. My mother was Bridget Mary Kelly from Meath who used to do some housework for my father Patrick Quinn.

17 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9

STATE MUST DO RIGHT BY THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE THEY LET DOWN

FASTNews

Dublin is named the most giving county in Ireland

nothing wrong’ St Patrick’s facility on the Navan Road and the notorious Bessborough House in Cork . Picture: Aishling Conway

Terri’s story AS soon as 18-year-old Terri Harrison realised she was pregnant in February 1973 she knew she had to leave Catholic Ireland.

Within a week the Drimnagh teenager found herself in London and got a job in a shop on Oxford Street.

Her plan was to move in with a gay friend and tell people the baby was theirs – and never to return to Ireland.

But within days a priest and two nuns arrived at the London house she was staying in, bundled her into a car and put her on a plane to Cork. She was taken to the notorious Bessborough House where the first thing the nuns did was check her over for STDs – and assign her a new name, Tracey. At five months pregnant strong-willed Terri ran away but she was tracked to her sister’s house in Dublin and brought to St Patrick’s facility on the Navan Road. Her recollection of giving birth to her son Niall is harrowing.

“I was in labour for three days. They shut me in a room with no doctors, no nurses, and no pain relief. I was shaking that much in pain they had to tie my hands to the bed.”

But worse was to come. Her newborn was wrenched from her arms by nuns who called her a “filthy, selfish whore”.

When her son was 18 she tried to make contact with him, but he rejected her advances. She hopes some day he will change his mind.

Francis’ story WHEN Francis Timmons held his dying mother’s hand, he felt privileged – not many who survived the horrors of Catholic-run institutions were fortunate enough to trace their birth mothers.

He said: “To be beside her when she was dying and to hold her hand…I was very lucky I was there. I speak to so many people who never had and never will meet their parents.”

Mary Timmons – bowed down by years of guilt over being an ‘unfit mother’ instilled in her by the church and State - passed away in January 2014, two months before her son was elected to South Dublin County Council.

Francis, 45, said: “Losing us (her children) had a huge and devastating effect on her life. She ended up in the Simon Community for 40 years. When she was dying I said ‘you done nothing wrong’. And she didn’t. It was her family, the State, the church.”

Clondalkin Cllr Francis grew up in the Madonna House in Blackrock run by the Sisters of Charity. He was later moved to a foster home where he suffered horrific abuse which is now the subject of a Tusla-led probe.

He said: “There were times when I just wanted to die.

I didn’t want to live. I never tried suicide, but I did think I’d be better off out of this.

“I was so delighted to get out of Madonna House, then when I went on to suffer the abuse in foster care, I just thought I’d be better out of the world altogether.”

DUBLIN has been named the most giving county in Ireland, according to the charity, Trocaire. It has revealed that Dubliners spent more than €183,645 on their charity Christmas gifts last year – nearly three times more than any other county.

The Trocaire Gifts campaign, which has been running for 17 years, raises over €1m annually for its work to eradicate poverty in more than 20 countries worldwide.

Eamonn Meehan, executive director, Trocaire, said that the donations from Dublin have meant that “the world’s poorest families are able to earn an income, refugees fleeing conflict are receiving support, and people suffering the impacts of drought have access to clean water”.

“I would like to say a huge thank-you to people across Dublin for continuing to add our ethical gifts to their Christmas shopping list,” he added.

This year’s Christmas gifts range in price from €5 to €250, with 11 gifts to choose from.

They include olive trees for Palestinian farmers (€5), chicks for families in Ethiopia (€7), school lunches for children in Somalia (€30), goats in Kenya (€50) and support for women’s small businesses around the world (€250).

The gifts can be bought online at trocaire.org/ gifts, by calling 1850 408 408, or at Trocaire Dublin Centre, 12 Cathedral Street, Dublin 1, as well as at Veritas stores and selected Easons stores.

Tune in as 8Radio.com is returning for five weeks 8RADIO.COM is returning to Dublin for five weeks this winter. The online, independentlyowned, multi-genre music radio station, has announced another run of weekend FM broadcasts in Dublin on 94.3FM from November 19 to December 18.

The station is the brainchild of Simon Maher, a lecturer in media and broadcasting at Ballyfermot College of Further Education, and one of the founders and the public face of Phantom FM from its pirate roots in 1998 until its takeover in 2011.

Simon said his aim is to “put the excitement and human engagement back into music radio”.

“It’s not based on focus groups or market research – it’s based on choosing really good songs and having passionate presenters play them! 8Radio.com has found a niche among music lovers and those who may not currently consume much, if any, traditional FM radio.”

By broadcasting on FM, 8Radio.com believes there is an opportunity to strengthen its audience and drive traffic towards its online presence.

10 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 17 November 2016

Grafton St lights up for Christmas

Russian ballet troupe get set to swan about in style ON THE back of a hugely successful premiere tour earlier this year, Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet makes its debut in Dublin this month.

The company will showcase a spectacular new version of The Nutcracker, with stunning baroque designs along with the timeless classic, Swan Lake.

The Nutcracker is a delightfully festive tale, and the perfect introduction to ballet. This enchanting ballet tells the story of Clara’s magical adventure with her Nutcracker Prince, including a visit to the delicious Land of Sweets and the delightful Sugar Plum Fairy, and is a real treat for the whole family.

Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet will perform The Nutcracker and Swan Lake at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre from Monday, November 21 to Saturday, November 26, with tickets priced from €15.

For further information, see www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie.

THE annual turning on of the Christmas lights ceremony on Grafton Street had to be cut short because of the size of the crowd.

Around 15,000 people turned up to watch the event. Organisers released a statement saying the event was ended in the interests of the safety and comfort of those present.

Swan Lake – a particular high point of the Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet’s repertoire

17 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 11

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 17 November 2016

DUBLINBUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS | 18 SYSTEMS REPLACED IN COMMS AGREEMENT

Oil firm rings up a €185k phone tech solution deal  EMMA NOLAN Malahide native James Doyle is hoisted aloft after being named as president of Ogra Fianna Fail

Doyle’s delight at top Ogra Fianna Fail position CHEERED on by more than 500 delegates and supporters, Malahide man James Doyle was elected to the position of president of Ogra Fianna Fail at the party’s National Youth Conference in Limerick.

27-year-old Doyle is a qualified financial advisor, and first got involved in politics aged 12 when he was a delegate to Comhairle na nOg, eventually becoming national chairperson in 2007.

Doyle said: “It’s a great honour to be elected

president of Ogra by my peers. I received a strong mandate, winning 63% of the vote.

“My job is to grow and develop our organisation and ensure that the voice of young people is heard within Fianna Fail and the country generally.”

Over the course of the weekend, delegates debated issues such as the needs of rural Ireland resulting from the fallout from Brexit, and the need for an increased focus on science and technology in schools.

Penneys joins Celebrations One4All list for standards PENNEYS has become the latest retail brand to sign up for the national One4All gift card system.

Michael Dawson, group chief executive at One4all, said: “We are really excited to extend our portfolio of retail partners and welcome the Irish institution that is Penneys to the One4all scheme, meaning that One4all customers are able use their cards in its stores nationwide.”

T he One4all Gif t Card is the marketleading, multi-retailer gift card, and is currently accepted in store and online at more than 8,000 stores nationwide.

SOME 12 Dublin firms are celebrating after achieving certification to key international business standards.

Aalto Bio Reagents Ltd, Balfour Beatty Rail Ireland, Central Bank of Ireland, Collen Construction, Decawave, Dublin Bus, Irish Rail, New Century Engineering, Label Tech, McNally Handy and Partners, Owens and Minor Global Services, and Syncreon were among 30 organisations recognised for their achievement.

The special ceremony was held at the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) offices on November 4.

TOP Oil has struck a €185,000 deal with ShoreTel and Phone Pulse.

ShoreTel was one of a number of solutions considered by Top Oil, and was chosen based on feedback from the company’s IT and business users.

Savings have been made largely through the removal of 18 separate phone systems that were previously in place. Each incurred separate landline charges, and offered no call visibility.

Another benefit of using ShoreTel’s unified communications solution is increased sales conversions.

ShoreTel has shown that approximately 30% of calls received are direct sales calls from customers.

The system allows these calls to be prioritised and answered by a member of the sales team while routing less time-sensitive internal calls to other staff.

The leading fuel supplier is also benefiting from the addition of callback, call recording, instant messag-

Seamus McGovern, group ICT manager, Top Oil; Barry Dillon, regional sales director, Ireland, Middle East and Nordic regions, ShoreTel; Imogen Gold, contact centre manager, Top Oil and David Lang, sales director, Phone Pulse.

ing, conference call and email capabilities, which now all run under the ShoreTel platform, ensuring ease of use.

Feeback Productivity has increased, and Top Oil has received positive feedback from customers since the

solution was introduced.

Seamus McGovern, group ICT manager, Top Oil said: “When we looked at a number of options for our needs, the clear winner was ShoreTel. It’s simply the best unified communications solution in the market.

“The €40,000 annual

cost savings have obviously been hugely beneficial for our business and ensured a very high return on investment.

“Phone Pulse has made the transition to ShoreTel seamless, implementing the solution in just a few weeks and providing onsite training to staff.

Swords firm claims technology win at eir Elevation Awards 2016 A BUSINESS located in Swords’ Airside Business Park has won the Best Technology award at the eir Elevation Awards 2016.

The company, eShopWorld, describes its role as “empowering online retailers to succeed globally by delivering a seamless and glocalised shopping experience”.

Eavann Murphy, chief commercial officer, eir Business, said: “The eir Elevation

Awards are the perfect vehicle to highlight and acknowledge innovation and give new businesses in Ireland the platform to grow and develop further.

“As a member of the judging panel, I was delighted to see such incredible vision, innovation and genuine desire to achieve success on a national and international scale.”

The award winners, which span seven categories, were announced at a lunch in the

Marker Hotel, Friday earlier this month.

With a spotlight on innovation, international scalability, differentiation and strategic investment to the Irish economy, the eir Elevation Awards celebrate the success of Ireland’s fastest growing companies.

Pictured are Shay Lunch, Future State, presentning Michael Nolan of eShopWorld with the award.

“Now, we can route calls easily across our 30 locations and 250 staff.

The feedback from customers and staff alike has been very positive. We’re a customer-focused organisation, and our reputation is very important. With ShoreTel, no customer is left behind,” he said.

17 November 2016 GAZETTE 13

14 GAZETTE 17 November 2016

GAZETTE

DIARY DUBLINLIFE Look out for artists’ talents CHILDREN across Dublin are being called on to let their imaginations run wild and create a modern masterpiece for Sightsavers’ Junior Painter Awards

by Friday, November 25.

T his year’s theme, Framing The Future, is sure to inspire some imaginative entries from primary school pupils.

Entrants have the chance to win cash prizes for their schools, sponsored by The Irish Times, and memberships and toolboxes full of arts and crafts materials from ReCreate Ireland.

Some 15 regional winners will be selected and will have the opportunity to see their work displayed at a special awards day

Judge, Laureate na nOg and children’s book illustrator PJ Lynch with Aya Parker, Rachel Murphy and Emmy award-winning costume designer, Joan Bergin. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland

next Spring. where three overall national winners will be announced.

Every child that enters will receive a certificate of

participation in recognition of their artistic efforts.

See the entry forms, at www.sightsavers.ie/juniorpainter.

CHRISTMAS FUN AT MERRION SQUARE MERRION Square will throw open its gates and doors for a series of sea-

sonal events this November and December.

The annual lighting up of the square takes place on Tuesday, November

22. The public will then be welcomed the next day for Christmas On Merrion Square – an open day with events for all ages in the buildings around the square.

December 12 sees the surrounds of St Stephen’s Church play host to Carols By Candlelight – a free traditional service and carols sung by Classicus Youth Choir.

From free horse and carriage rides to Christmas carols, creative Irishmade gifts and wonderful seasonal artisan food, the day offers something for all ages and tastes.

All events are free with some ticketed. For further information, see www. merrionsquare.ie.

GO TO TOWN FOR ALL THE SEASON’S SIGHTS A NEW website is to be launched to keep track of all the Christmas events happening in Dublin this festive season.

DublinatChristmas. ie is a one-stop-shop for information on all the festivities taking place across Dublin city centre, including information on shopping, socialising, family-friendly events, special offers and much more.

T he same message from the city, and the site, is Go To Town to see the city come alive with the festive spirit, and experience the magic and tradition of Dublin at Christmas time.

17 November 2016 GAZETTE 15

16 GAZETTE 17 November 2016

COMMENT | THE TANAISTE SAYS WE CAN ALL DO MORE TO END THE PLAGUE OF DOMESTIC AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE

CHARITY | DUBLIN BIOPHARM STAFF TAKE TIME OUT TO GIVE BACK

 FRANCES FITZGERALD

DOMESTIC violence remains a serious issue in our society. Too many people have had their futures robbed from them. Society needs to get the message that such violence is criminal and unacceptable.

That is why, this week I launched the National Awareness Raising Campaign on Domestic and Sexual Violence.

My Department and NGOs working in the sector have developed an advertising campaign to increase the awareness of domestic and sexual violence, to bring about a change in behaviours and attitudes and to activate bystanders with the aim of decreasing and preventing this violence.

The campaign will recognise that women and men are victims of such crimes. It will encourage family members, friends and bystanders to take action to combat domestic and sexual violence.

We want women and men to feel that they can reach out and ask for help. We want the message to reach into households across this country – domestic and sexual violence must stop.

Through this campaign, we are taking on a very significant challenge but if we unite to bring this violence out in the open, to make this an issue people talk about and to help people understand and recognise the violence, we can achieve so much.

There is a lot at stake – people’s safety, their lives, that of their family, their children. It is incumbent on us to do our all to effect change, to strive to change the behaviours in our society that perpetuate the violence that happens in homes throughout Ireland. Our homes should be our sanctuary but sadly for a lot of women, men and children their home is a dangerous and fearful environment.

Therefore we must speak out against domestic and sexual violence and leave perpetrators in no doubt that this violence will not be tolerated in our country.

Of course, in order to ensure that those who do step forward are supported, we need to strengthen the legislation on domestic violence. I will publish the Domestic Violence Bill soon. It contains key improvements. It will be easier to get barring, safety and protection orders. It will provide for securing an emergency barring order and it will be possible for a victim to give evidence by video-link.

The intention for this campaign is to send a clear and unequivocal message to perpetrators that this violence is totally unacceptable and that it must stop. As relatives, friends, neighbours, bystanders and witnesses, we have an important role in helping to prevent domestic and sexual violence. Our intervention, if it is safe and legal to do so, will significantly impact those affected by this intolerable violence by offering hope and support.

The most difficult aspect of tackling domestic and sexual violence is its hidden nature. It happens in sitting rooms, kitchens, bedrooms; clubs, pubs and nights out. It hides in the private moments of relationships, things that outsiders cannot see. This campaign is aimed at getting into those hidden spaces through ads on TV, local radio, in posters on our streets, ensuring our national message is delivered at a local level: domestic and sexual violence is not acceptable.

Todd Manning (centre) with his AbbVie colleagues for the biopharmaceutical giant’s annual community support programme, Week of Possibilities

When big businesses shows bigger heart  EMMA NOLAN

BIG-hearted employees from a pharmaceutical company in West Dublin have rolled up their sleeves to help build a creche for homeless children.

Some 60 volunteers from AbbVie in Citywest took time out from their busy schedules recently to help Sophia Housing, a non-profit organisation that provides emergency, transitional and long-term accommodation to homeless people.

The accommodation centre is based in Donabate in north Dublin, where Sophia operates a ‘Nurture Centre’ providing creche and after school facilities for children

living within the complex. The AbbVie volunteers put in a massive effort to upgrade the centre, an outdoor play area and an adjacent garden allotment.

Mary Gilton of Sophia House in Donabate told The Gazette: “The children, adults and staff will have a wonderful, enhanced, exciting and out-of-this-world nurturing centre and surrounding garden areas to happily work and play in thanks to all at AbbVie. “The company’s Week of Possibilities initiative has been a fantastic experience for all involved.”

AbbVie, a global biopharmaceutical company which employs around 600 people

in Ireland, joined forces with Volunteer Ireland in 2015 to launch ‘Week of Possibilities’, an initiative that strives to make a positive impact on the lives of marginalised people through a commitment to building strong communities, sustainable health care systems and effective educational programmes.

This year, 400 of AbbVie’s Irish employees – two thirds of its workforce – volunteered more than 1,700 hours during Week of Possibilities.

Across the company, a remarkable 313 colleagues from commercial and manufacturing sites contributed to the initiative.

“Week of Possibilities is a great example of how non-profit organisations and the private sector can work together to make a positive difference.” said Todd Manning, general manager AbbVie, who is based in the company’s commercial office in Dublin’s Citywest.

“This wonderful initiative helps to give children from underserved populations a better chance at achieving their dreams and ultimately improving their own communities. We believe our volunteer work during Week of Possibilities can make a real difference – on the children of today and on the communities of tomorrow.”

Todd (above), Basil (above right) and some of the AbbVie gang muck in to help upgrade the childcare facilities at Sophia House in Donabate

17 November 2016 GAZETTE 17

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18 GAZETTE 17 November 2016

DUBLINLIFE

STYLE er Riv o Rud nd Isla lph

Next Faux fur gilet €28

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Dublin training Academy wins prestigious beauty award  EMMA NOLAN

TEMPERATURES have dropped and a new Winter coat and cosy essentials are top of the shopping list for boys and girls.

Whether it’s for the school run or special occasions, we’ve complied some cosy kids favourites from the high street. From fur gilets

us

Style Editor

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to double-breasted pea coats, the outerwear offering for kids right now are giving the grown-up styles a run for their money, and best of all, they’re also stylish and practical.

 EMMA NOLAN

on Fox

Monso top €20

Trends “In recent years, treatments and techniques in salons have advanced so much and customers expect the latest trend in their local salon.

“We at Waverley are constantly responding to these demands so that all our students graduate with the highest standards and techniques possible.”

There are 25 tutors at the academy, specialising in hair, beauty and make-up.

The academy is now taking admissions for courses. For further information, see www. academy.ie or call 01 408 9769.

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A DUBLIN beauty school has just won the Training Academy of the Year award at this year’s Irish Hair and Beauty Awards.

The Waverly Academy in Inchicore has been in business for 22 years and has recently added new courses to its programme.

Director Veronica O’Kelly said: “There’s never been a more exciting time to have a career in the hair, beauty and make-up industry.

Monsoon Jeans €34

17 November 2016 GAZETTE 19

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20 GAZETTE 17 November 2016

DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

Dealer Principal Tom Staunton and Anne Staunton with Steve Tormey, chief executive at Toyota Ireland at the signing of the new dealer agreement

State-of-the-art Toyota dealership opens at Liffey Valley TOYOTA Liffey Valley, Dublin’s newest Toyota dealership opened last week under the management of Tom Staunton adding another important car brand to the line-up of dealerships at the extensive shopping centre off the N4. Tom has over 30 years experience both within the motor industry and with Toyota.

Toyota Liffey Valley will create 40 new jobs within sales, after-sales and administrative roles. It has an 11-car showroom and heralds a new concept by integrating the sales and service business by wrapping the service workshop around the showroom.

The dealership covers 3,000 sq m over two floors.

The new showroom features Toyota’s new Retail Concept offering customers an immersive experience, encompassing a combination of physical, human and digital touch points which will guide the customer through the showroom. The service workshop area comprises a 14-bay workshop featuring pre-NCT and inspection bays along with dedicated express servicing bays.

Ford launches new Kuga with a 7 year warranty FORD claims that the new 2017 Kuga SUV is a more technologically

V40 model adds a new measure to Volvo safety appeal

Volvo has added even more safety value to its entry level V40 model to add to the appeal of a car that’s compact in nature and edges closer to the prestige end of the market. MICHAEL MORONEY took it for a test drive and explains its appeal.

VOLVO’S latest version of the V40 was launched during the summer months with modest styling changes and some extra specification options to make the Swedish brand’s entry model even more desirable. The car continues to look attractive, with a sporty hint so that as it drives by, you would almost think that it’s going faster than it actually is.

On the inside the car is stylish and modern, with an understated layout that gives hints to the Swedish IKEA-like minimalist approach that’s obvious across the entire Volvo range. That’s part

of the attraction of the car and that is a comfortable fit with the Volvo brand which for generations has stood for safe driving and comfort.

The V40 is a blend between a hatchback and an estate car. The result is a compact and modern looking car from the outside that’s comfortable on the inside while not being too big. This is a car that’s relaxed on city and rural roads with its compact nature and freeflowing design lines.

The test car that I drove recently was the D2 Momentum Edition, powered by a thrifty 2.0litre, turbo-diesel engine.

The engine is smooth and

powerful enough with a high level of torque at 280Nm, to give a reasonably impressive acceleration figure of 10.5 seconds in a 0 to 100km/ hr race. It’s no rocket but more importantly, the relatively high engine torque means a smooth acceleration that’s effortless even if it’s not Formula 1 fast.

There’s a lot of competition in this segment of the market, and for Volvo the brand image is as important as the car’s performance. The economy figures that I achieved were disappointingly below the quoted figure of 31km/ litre (3.2l/100km or

advanced, refined and affordable sports utility vehicle (SUV) than ever.

The new Kuga, with a fresh front grille design, arrives in Ireland this month with prices starting at €33,345, a price increase of over €1,200.

The entry model comes with a new 120bhp Ford 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine that’s claimed to deliver a fuel economy figure of 22.7km/litre (64.2 mpg) and with a low 115g/km CO2 rating. This engine is claimed to be 5% more fuel efficient than the previous 2.0litre turbo-diesel engine that was the entry model in the range.

There will be three diesel engine options in terms of power 120bhp, 150bhp and 180bhp with the latter two powered by a 2.0 -litre turbo-diesel engine. A new petrol engine option is restricted to a 1.5-litre 150bhp EcoBoost engine which is turbo-charged and more efficient than petrol engines of the past.

The dash on the Volvo V40 is modern and understated with clear lines in an IKEA sort of way, that’s functional and practical

Volvo V40

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine 2.0 litre Engine power 120hp 0 – 100km/hr 10.5 seconds Top speed 190km/hr Economy 31km/litre (3.2l/100km or 73mpg)

Fuel Tank Capacity 62 litres CO2 emissions 89g/km Road Tax Band €180 Main Service 20,000km/12 mon Euro NCAP Rating 5 star 2012 Boot Space 335 litres Warranty 3 years (100,000km) Entry Price €28,045

Volvo fit a capless fuel filler unit to the Volvo V40 with a narrow throat to ensure that filling mishaps are prevented

73mpg) and that was with a significant amount of city driving.

The engine start-stop system, a very useful fuel saving device appeared a bit harsh relative to some others, so I ended up using less often than I should. Start-stop systems are not everyone’s favour feature, but they do need to be very seamless for drivers to get comfortable with them.

The 62-litre capacity fuel tank, with its capless opening device, gave me a range of over 700km, which is a shade low for cars in this segment of the market. That’s because most cars of this size are fitted with smaller and marginally more fuel

efficient 1.6-litre turbodiesel engines that also make these other cars marginally lighter.

Weight is important when it comes to fuel economy in modern cars.

That’s part of the reason some car companies such as Volvo don’t provide a spare wheel in the boot as standard. But the lack of the spare wheel, which costs €80 extra on the options list, has not been enough to keep the Volvo V40 fuel economy in trim.

Among the obvious less prestigious competition are the popular Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Opel Astra and Toyota Auris. Volvo tends to pitch the V40 against the

17 November 2016 GAZETTE 21

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MOTORING

Toyota launches annual Dream Car Art Contest

The new Volvo V40 comes with a range of optional safety features that has the potential to make it one of the safest midrange cars on the road. Prices start from €28,045 before delivery charges.

The doors open wide, but rear legroom is modest, while the hatchback

The boot is reasonable in size and the optional Tempa spare

boot opens wide for easy loading

wheel costs an additional €80

Audi A3 Sportback but to me they are very different cars.

On paper at least, the V40 is no faster than any of them in terms of acceleration, and marginally better, in theory at least, in terms of fuel economy.

That’s why its CO2 rating is so good at 89g/km bringing it right down to Road Tax band A2, which costs just €180 per year in road tax.

One of the things that that impressed me about the Volvo V40 was the quick user guide in the glove box. This was a clearly laid out guide that shows you how all of the cars functions can be set and how to get the best from the car.

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

‘As it’s a Volvo, you expect there to be loads of typical Volvo safety features in the deal’ ---------------------------

It’s an example that many others should follow as it allowed me to set the car for my best comfort and performance. I like to get the Bluetooth into action straight away and following the guide was a dream. Even setting the kilometre readings to zero can be a technology challenge in some cars and without this simple guide, I could have spent

hours on the job.

The Volvo V40 is more compact in terms of space from the rear legroom to the boot. The test car boot felt small and it included the optional spare wheel. For the driver, I found there to be adequate headroom as I drive from a high seating position.

The driving position is a bit low for my style, for others it provides a sporty feel along with a very attractive to use steering wheel.

The digital dials were very clear to use and visibility from behind the wheel was good on all sides. The Volvo sat-nav system fits well into the clear dash area and was

easy to use and set up.

As it’s a Volvo, you expect there to be loads of typical Volvo safety features in the deal. For the V40 there are some new ones including City Safety system, an automatic braking system first shown on the Volvo XC60 to avoid noise-totail urban accidents. For the new V40 is has been improved and now works at speeds up to 50 km/h, instead of 30 km/h in the past.

The V40 also comes with a new Pedestrian Airbag system that inflates from under the rear edge of the bonnet when the car detects that it has hit a pedestrian. Volvo research has

shown that the raised bonnet better cushions the unfortunate pedestrian. It also protects the pedestrian’s head from the “hard points” at the base of the windscreen and the lower A-pillars.

Entry prices which start at €28,045 are marginally above those of the volume sellers such as the Focus, Golf, Auris, Astra while being keener than the Audi A3 price band. The Volvo brand and design style is different and attractive. Be prepared to be tempted to lift the specification grades and see how the pricing changes and then it’s time for the calculator for what is a very impressive and safe car to own.

TOYOTA Ireland is delighted to announce that budding Irish artists under the age of 16 can now enter their submissions for the annual Toyota Dream Car Art Contest. The contest encourages children to imagine what their dream car would be and then to share their vision by drawing or painting it.

The national competition will see nine Irish finalists awarded a range of prizes at the official awards ceremony in Dublin in March 2017, and their winning entries will then compete against other international finalists for a chance to win a once in a lifetime trip to Japan.

A panel of three judges, Oliver Whelan, lecturer in Fine Art and Painting at NCAD, RTE star Blathnaid Treacy and a representative from Toyota Ireland have the tough job of selecting three finalists in each age category (under eight years, eight to 11 years and 12 to 15 years) as the national winners.

Commenting on the announcement, Ian Corbett, Toyota Ireland marketing manager said: “Toyota is passionate about unlocking the potential of youth in Ireland and the Dream Car Art Contest provides a perfect platform for young Irish artists to showcase their talents with the opportunity to compete on a global stage.

Each year, we are delighted by the exceptional level of artistic talent from children in Ireland, and we can’t wait to start viewing the masterpieces that are produced for this year’s contest.”

How to Enter

Young artists are being asked to draw or paint their vision of a ‘Dream Car’ using standard art materials (digital submissions will not be accepted). All entries must be in colour and include a car and a background or setting on an A3 size paper.

All submissions can be entered by dropping art work into an Authorised Toyota Dealership or sending it to Toyota Ireland, Killeen Road, Dublin 12 and clearly mark it ‘Toyota Dream Car Art Contest’.

The submission must be accompanied by an entry form which can be downloaded from www.toyota. ie/Dream-car-art . The contest will be open until February 24, 2017.

The nine Irish winners’ works will go on to compete against international winners for Gold, Silver and Bronze in a global competition with a grand prize of a once-in-a lifetime trip to Japan.

Full contest details and rules for the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest can be found at www.toyota.ie/ Dream-car-art .

RTE star Blathnaid Treacy gets help from Baxter Brown to launch the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest 2017 as Ariel Haughton and Sarah McFarland look on. Picture Jason Clarke

22 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 17 November 2016

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DUBLINLIFE fast

TRAVEL

TRAVEL NEWS

A weekend break in Leitrim beckons those looking to yoga to help detox and destress

Try a weekend break to focus on wellness A WEEKEND retreat of yoga and meditation before Christmas might sound like a bother, but according to yoga teacher Niamh Heverin, taking some well-deserved ‘metime’ is both very necessary and beneficial.

She suggests some of the reasons to pursue yoga for better health and well-being, including ...

Time for self-reflection Without the distractions of everyday life, the relaxing atmosphere of a retreat allows you to quiet your mind and gain perspective for the new year.

A weekend of clean eating We often end our year feeling bloated, unfit and yearning for a fresh start.

At a wellness retreat, your meals are carefully planned and made with healthy whole foods that fuel your body and mind.

Just a few days of eating right can reset your habits, helping after you leave your retreat.

Digital detox Countless hours on social media can distract us from fully experienc-

ing what’s really around us.

Abstaining, however briefly, can help us centre and balance ourselves.

It’ll also help build connections with the people around us.

Slowing things down for a weekend gives us a chance to experience ourselves differently, with people leaving recharged and rejuvenated on Sunday afternoon.

Retreats are for everyone Retreats are a good way to start or re-start a personal practice, or to deepen an existing one.

A wellness retreat will allow you to get away and spend some time taking care of yourself.

Niamh Heverin is a Ko Phangan-based yoga, pilates and meditation teacher who runs daily classes and offers holistic therapies.

She is hosting her retreat, A Winter Weekend of Wellness, in the award-winning Eco Retreat centre, Ard Nahoo, Co Leitrim.

For further information, see NiamhHeverin. com, or the NiamhHeverinWellness page on Facebook.

Delphi Resort, in Galway, has a special pre-Christmas yoga package to help face Christmas and beyond in your best shape

GALWAY: PRE-CHRISTMAS BREAK TO READY FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

West is best to relax

 IAN BEGLEY

IF YOU want an opportunity to reflect, unwind and relax before the festivities of Christmas and New Years’ celebrations, then why not head to Galway and take advantage of Delphi Resort’s pre-Christmas yoga package?

Hosted by Kenneth R y a n , f r o m F r i d ay, December 16 – 18, the Christmas Presence yoga retreat includes daily yoga, where he will guide participants through the steps of gentle stretching, supportive meditation and relaxation tech-

niques.

This yoga retreat includes a relaxing twonight stay at the 4-star resort, with a breakfast smoothie or juice each morning (full breakfast also available), a light lunch each day, and a three-course evening meal in the 814 restaurant each night, with delicious seasonal options – ’tis the season, after all!

With a refreshed body and mind, guests are invited to join executive head chef Stefan Matz on Saturday afternoon in The Chef’s Table, where he will be hosting a Christmas cooking dem-

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

‘The yoga retreat gives you the opportunity to step out of the pre-holiday rush and ease your way into the celebration of a healthy Christmas’

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

onstration offering ideas and insight to take home with you to produce your own delicious Christmas menu.

After a rejuvenating morning with Kenneth, and invaluable tips from Stefan, retreat to the Delphi Spa and enjoy a spa treatment worth up to €50pp, or an organic

seaweed bath, followed by two hours access to the Thermal Suite – truly relax with the use of the jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and relaxation area.

The yoga retreat gives you the opportunity to step out of the pre-holiday rush and ease your way into the celebration

of a healthy Christmas.

Explore the spectacular outdoors, clearing your mind and enjoying the fresh air, or simply stay warm and cosy by the fireside with a good book on your down time.

This inclusive retreat package is available with prices from €349PPS (single supplement also available).

Book early to avoid disappointment, as retreats sell out quickly. For further information or to make a booking, email bookings@delphiresort. com , call 095 42208, or visit www.delphiresort. com.

Hotel and spa scoop prestigious national awards  IAN BEGLEY

THE Europe Hotel and Resort in Killarney (ESPA) has been named Best Overall Hotel at the 2016 National Hospitality awards.

In addition to this, the ESPA won Hotel Spa of the Year at

the awards, which took place in London last week.

Located on the shores of Lough Lein, and framed by the McGillycuddy Reeks mountain range, it is set in one of Ireland’s most spectacular locations.

Its luxurious spa are spread over two levels and cover a total

of 4,500sq m. Every aspect has been designed to provide a holistic and restorative experience, emphasising magnificent views.

Michael Brennan, general manager of Killarney Hotels, said: “We are thrilled that the hotel has been named Best Overall Hotel in Ireland.

“There are many fantastic hotels in Ireland, so we’re delighted to have won this award.

“It is a testament to the amazing team that we have working at The Europe, whose dedication to our customers is second to none.”

17 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

FOOD&DRINK BITESIZEDNEWS

The George Foreman Evolve Grilll

What’s cookin’ in grills?

Here’s a new Foreman THE latest innovation from George Foreman is the new Evolve Grill that can cook up to five portions at once. Unique to the grill is an intense 260°c Super Sear function that aims to deliver restaurant-quality steak. George Foreman Grills are available nationwide from independent Irish electrical retailers. The Evolve Grill retails for €199.99.

Whiskey provides an interesting extra flavour to these pork belly and melon-based treats

Make it Muldoon for whiskey liqueur dishes

It’s a celebration of fine fare at An Italian Feast Overview A LEADING Italian chef is coming to Dublin this month to a fivecourse ‘feasting’ menu that pays homage to Italy and the ingredients unique to the country.

Francesco Mazzei, in collaboration with The House of Peroni, will present An Italian Feast.

Taking place in Charlotte Quay on Wednesday, November 23, from 7pm, Francesco will serve a five-course menu, which will see Francesco sharing his passion for Southern Italian cuisine.

The menu includes an array of antipasti dishes, including Speck all’Anatra (home-cured duck speck with wild berries), Battuta di Tuna (a tuna dish, akin to a

tartare) and Insalata di Carciofini (artichoke and pea shoot salad).

Dessert is a fragrant Crema al Bergamotto (bergamot cream) served with bitter chocolate sorbet and a selection of handmade Pasticcini (fine Italian pastries).

Speaking on the menu, he said: “The plethora of ingredients unique to Italy are my source of inspiration to create menus drawn from Southern Italian feasts. I am really looking forward to sharing a Southern Italian culinary journey with our guests.”

The meal costs €65 per person and tickets are available from thehouseofperoni.com.

MULDOON Irish Whiskey Liqueur is a toffee and hazelnut-flavoured whiskey. Here are a selection of recipes by award-winning chef Jenny Flynn, of the Faithlegg House and Country Club Hotel in Waterford. Muldoon Irish Whiskey Liqueur can be bought at the Celtic Whiskey Shop, Dawson Street, for €30.

Muldoon Pork Belly Makes 6 portions.

Ingredients l 1.3kg centre piece of pork belly (so it will cook evenly) l 15g fennel seeds l 5g sea salt l 100ml olive oil l Carrots l Celery l Onions l Garlic cloves with skin on l Fresh thyme l 150ml Muldoon whiskey

Preparation l Turn oven to its highest temperature. Using a knife, score the skin down to the meat (try not to cut the meat), make the cuts very close together (go across the skin). l Put the fennel seeds and the sea salt in a pestle and mortar and grind till the seeds are smashed and mixed well with the salt. l Rub the pork belly with Muldoon whiskey and half the seasoning mix.

Cover and allow to marinate overnight. l The next day, pat the

skin side dry – this will help with the crackling. l Sprinkle over half of the fennel and salt mixture and rub in, pour over the oil and then the seed and salt mixture. l Now really rub this into the skin so that everything gets in between the skin and down onto the meat. l Wash the carrots and celery well, cut them into large 2-inch pieces, wash the thyme, and put these into the base of your roasting dish with the whole garlic bulbs; peel and cut the onions into large wedges. l Put the seasoned pork belly on top of the vegetables and then put into your very hot oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the skin of the belly starts to bubble and is golden brown. l Turn the oven tem-

perature dow n to 170°C/325°F/gas 3, then roast for 1.5 hours. l Carefully open the oven door and add into the tray the Muldoon whiskey, then continue cooking for one hour. l Remove the meat carefully from the oven and test to see if it pulls apart easily. If not, put back in the oven until the meat is ready, then remove from the oven. l Take the meat from the tray and place onto a wooden board and allow to rest. l Remove the crackling from the top of the belly and break up into pieces; set aside then pull the pork belly apart and enjoy with more vegetables and your choice of potatoes.

Muldoon Melon Makes approximately 6

portions; make sure you choose ripe melons.

Ingredients l Quarter watermelon l Quarter Galia melon l Quarter Honeydew melon l 2 shots of Muldoon whiskey l 6 limequats (a cross between a lime and a kumquat) Preparation l Peel melons and deseed them cut them to size required. l Cut up some limequats, pour over the Muldoon, and cook until fruit has softened. Allow to cool. l Bring the melons up to room temperature.

Put the limequats in the middle and put melon on top. l Add an extra splash of Muldoon to excite the taste buds.

GAZETTE

24 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 17 November 2016

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA ReelReviews

DOCTOR STRANGE Curiously interesting

MARVEL turns out another superhero film, though this one has a lesser-known character at its heart.

Doctor Strange (Cert 12A, 115 mins) sees Benedict Cumberbatch don a cape and strange, mystical powers as he, and Tilda Swinton, create an odball yet visually striking film. The high-calibre cast compete with some stunning visuals to create a memorable, if eyeball-searing film.

Adam Driver and Golshifteh Farahani create likeable characters, taking the everyday core of life to craft something that rises above the film’s simple premise

PATERSON: JARMUSCH JAMS WITH THE MUNDANE, YET CREATES A WONDROUS FILM

Much ado about nothing HAVING released just two films in the past decade, Jim Jarmusch is by no means the world’s most prolific director.

What a welcome surprise it is then to be treated to two Jarmusch projects in 2016. The indie favourite’s “Iggy Pop and the Stooges” documentary, Gimme Danger, proved to be an unfortunately flat affair, telling the legendary punk band’s story with about as much raw power as a tribute album.

The Adam Driver-led Paterson, however, is a poetic, unique and quietly moving experience – the most wonderfully ‘Jarmusch’ film the director has made in years.

Driver plays Paterson – a bus driver living in the town of Paterson,

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

New Jersey; just one of the mundane, idle coincidences on which the film’s pensive narrative thrives.

Every day, Paterson wakes up before his artist girlfriend, Laura (Golshifteh Farahani), walks to work, drives his bus around the city, and then walks home.

Throughout, Paterson listens, observes and breathes in the world around him, composing wonderfully minimalist poetry in a notebook he takes everywhere.

Every evening after

work, Paterson eats dinner with Laura, walks their dog Marvin, and then chats with the regulars over a few drinks at a local bar.

Perhaps more so than anything Jarmusch has ever produced, Paterson is a film where nothing really happens.

The low-key narrative takes place over the course of a week, with each day driven by a cycle of familiarity, interrupted only by randomly observed coincidences.

Quietly, Paterson relishes in the repetitive everyday experience. The most prosaic instances are granted romantic weight when in the presence of the bus-driving poet, such as an innocuous box of matches, a conversation on the bus, the recurrent

appearance of sets of twins.

As the repetition becomes more rigid and obvious, patterns begin to emerge elsewhere – most conspicuously, in the offbeat black and white art Laura gradually covers the inside of their entire house with.

Jarmusch successfully communicates the wonder of the incidental everyday to the audience – just as filmmaker and protagonist alike relish in repetition and mundane coincidence, we too gradually begin to delight in the poetics of the everyday.

When the narrative starts to sporadically break with that repetition, then, the results are often affecting and quietly devastating.

There’s little room for improvisation here, Paterson is prepared and performed to Jarmusch’s rigorous, formulated, pensive style.

The film’s more poetic segments are built around a gorgeous combination of word, image and music.

T houghtfully composed shots of small-town America are overlain with the scrawled words of Paterson’s poetry as he writes it aloud.

Underneath it all is the harmonious, droning soundtrack from Squrl – Jarmusch’s musical side project. The cumulative effect is often wondrously hypnotic.

Despite telling a story essentially about nothing, Paterson’s dreamy structure and lackadaisical narrative never drags or

slows to a crawl.

Driver yet again proves how incredibly likeable he can be as the film’s privately romantic protagonist – sober and softly spoken, he’s a friend to all, and is often looked to for sage wisdom from a supporting cast packed with welcome, familiar faces.

Iranian actress Farahani is wonderful as Paterson’s hyperactively passionate girlfriend, who urges him to share his poems with the world.

Paterson is a wonderful film, and its protagonist a unique, quietly inspirational individual.

While you shouldn’t expect a conventionally emotional payoff, the experience of viewing Paterson is a reward in itself.

Verdict: 10/10

EDGE OF SEVENTEEN Teen spirit impresses

AT LAST – a film about teens that isn’t utterly, utterly excrutiating for nonteens to sit through, as The Edge of Seventeen (Cert 15A, 105 mins) delivers a funny, sassy yet thoughtful tale that will resonate with teens and grown-ups alike.

While not exactly based around earth-shattering complexities, its high school tales, and winning performances, make it a guilty pleasure to take in.

INFERNO

Last and least ...

WHATEVER sparks of interest audiences may have once had in Dan Brown’s overblown books may well finally go out after this turgid thriller. Inferno (Cert 12A, 121 mins) sees Tom Hanks return as the globe-trotting professor who’s the key to saving the world – literally, this time, thanks to a deadly plague.

Hanks does his best, but it’s a thankless task for this rather terrible three-quel.

17 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

TECH

WEEBYTES

The second Dub Web Fest promises an interesting programme line-up

Marrying tech and the arts  SHANE DILLON

EA Dice’s Frostbite game engine has never looked better, creating horrible warzones that you’d never want to see in real life. From glistening mud to desert dust clouds and showers of sparks, the game’s a real looker on all formats.

BATTLEFIELD 1: 1914-16 CONFLICT IS A GAMING BLAST

The Great War as a fun multiplayer WHILE all wars are hellish, World War One was a particularly savage conflict, and with the recent respectful ref lections across Europe on The Somme’s legacy, and other such theatres of war, some might see the release of WW1-set Battlefield 1 (c. €60; PC, PS, XBO; Cert 18) about a month ago as either a case of perfect or unfortunate timing, depending on outlook.

EA Dice’s latest installment in the long-running

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com

Battlefield series delves into the brutal global conflict that claimed so many lives in the war – including almost 50,000 Irishmen.

In doing so, it has created a very compelling war game by going back

to basics, stripping away much of the bloat that had crept into the series.

Shipping with an easily mopped up offline (and slightly unengaging) brief single player campaign that hops around various key WW1 hotspots, the real meat of B1 is its online multiplayer gaming.

Drawing inspiration from several real battles at a number of global locales, B1 sees players joining either side in lengthy toand-fro multi-part battles

across large, open maps, in a variety of terrain.

Alongside lots of player classes and weapon unlocks to earn and use in battle, the game’s terrific sound and great visuals provide more than enough to keep even diehard Battlefield veterans happy.

There’s plenty more you could say about B1 – but ultimately, this is not only one of the best such war games out there, but an interesting journey into a terrible period of history.

With multiplayer battles spanning the war’s reach, players could be fighting in the air, on foot, in armoured vehicles – or even on horseback. Screengrabs: Shane Dillon

I RECENTLY wrote about Web Fest 2016, which is gearing up for an eclectic schedule of web series and workshops at its second outing.

Well, it’s upon us this weekend, and is taking place from Friday, November 18 to Sunday 20 at the Filmbase centre in Temple Bar.

Diverse The festival promises an interesting range of events, with everything from acting workshops (including Eddie Jackson, of Game of Thrones, and Vikings fame, and Fair City actress Aoibheann McCaul) to previews of new films and web series, and more.

From music to internet-specific media, it promises to be an interesting exploration of many intersections between media and technology, offering much more than ‘just’ web-related content, making it, as the organisers say, a must for any film, TV or digital fans.

Tickets are now on sale for all events at Dub Web Fest 2016 and can be purchased at the website.

For further information on all of the festival’s events and workshops, see dublinwebfest.com.

26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 17 November 2016

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28 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 17 November 2016

SPORT McGonigle steps down from Dubs

FastSport

LADIES FOOTBALL: SECOND ALL-IRELAND PROVED TANTALISINGLY OUT OF REACH

SHELS BACK ON TOP OF WNL:

SHELBOURNE Ladies moved two points clear at the top of Continental Tyres Women’s National as the season entered the final strait.

Shels put five goals past Kilkenny United on their final home game of the season with Gloria Douglas and Sarah Rowe opening the scoring for Shels. Noelle Murray made it 3-0 just after the 20 minute mark with Leanne Kiernan landing her 12th league goal of the season to give Shels a 4-0 half time lead.

Kate Mooney landed Shels fifth on 67 minutes just six minutes after being introduced for Gloria Douglas. Shels now top the WNL with 23 points.

Elsewhere, the Dublin derby between Peamount United and UCD Waves ended in a scoreless draw in Greenogue, leaving the latter second. The game was the first scoreless draw of the season and, in fact, just the seventh scoreless draw in the seven year history of the Women’s National League.

 JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

BOSS Greg McGonigle and the Dublin Ladies’ football team have parted ways following Dublin’s All-Ireland final defeat to Cork in September.

McGonigle had been a loud voice for the side after their controversial defeat two months ago, hitting out at the ladies’ football association over

their failure to utilize Hawkeye for the game.

A seemingly legitimate point from Carla Rowe during the game was waved wide, and Dublin went on to lose by a single point.

In three years in charge, McGonigle led Dublin to three consecutive AllIreland finals with Dublin losing out to Cork on each occasion. The Rebelettes have now won 10 of the

last 11 at national level, but McGonigle maintained his primary aim was to repeat the county’s single win to date, which came in 2010.

McGonigle said of his decision: “I have really enjoyed my three years with Dublin but now feel the time is right for a new voice to help this group of players achieve their ultimate goal of winning an All-Ireland title.

Greg McGonigle has stepped down as Dublin ladies football boss. Picture: GAApics.com

“The time is also right for me personally to take a much needed break from management having been involved at senior level for the past six years [including time at Monaghan] and to reflect, recharge and refocus.”

He continued: “to the group of players, I struggle to find the words to sum up the desire, appreciation and love you have for your county. Genuinely it has been a huge honour to have coached you all and to have gotten to know you as people, most definitely class acts on and off the field.

“We shared many great days together and have

loads of memories from great journeys starting in 2014. I am disappointed that we could not win the much coveted senior AllIreland but you are closer than ever before and always remember a grain of rice can tip the scale.

“I strongly believe the amount of big games that this team have played over the past three years will stand to them while developing and strengthening them both mentally and physically in order to finally deliver an All-Ireland title, which I expect them to do in 2017.”

The Dublin Ladies Association hailed the manager for his impact

on the side: “Gregory brought a level of professionalism, enthusiasm and structure to Dublin that will prove quite difficult to surpass. “Gregory’s dedication to the players was insurmountable and he was instrumental in ensuring players had quality training facilities, medical care and top level coaching personnel available to them throughout his term in charge.

“Dublin LGFA would like to thank Gregory for all he has achieved with Dublin to acknowledge his dedication to the county and to wish him all the very best for the future.”

Evans fires Hermes-Monkstown to sixth victory  sport@dublingazette.com

Hermes-Monkstown’s Anna O’Flanagan and Nikki Evans celebrate their last minute winner. Picture: Adrian Boehm

NIKKI Evans’s last minute winner saw Hermes-Monkstown maintain their perfect start to the women’s EY Hockey League campaign following a huge tussle with Cork Harlequins whose 100% run came to an end as a result.

Liz McInerney gave the hosts an early lead from the first of many corners on the day, scrambling home from close range to get the vital touch. Rebecca Barry equalised before the end of the first quarter, though, when she

got on the end of a brilliant cross.

Quins then moved ahead following a great run by Yvonne O’Byrne, creating space in the circle and hammering home.

Their momentum was slowed, however, when Barry was shown a yellow card for dissent as temperatures rose with both sides contesting many decisions.

Hermes-Monkstown got back on terms in the second half from their fifth corner with Chloe Watkins slapping home from the top of the circle. Quins, though, bossed the period either side of the three-quarter break and

forced a couple of top saves from Liz Murphy.

Amber Barnwell had to scoop another chance off the line while O’Byrne deflected one corner inches wide. Two corner shots were blocked from a clever defensive running pattern – foregoing a number one runner to hang back and eliminate switch options – with Anna O’Flanagan and Sarah Greene cleaning up the chances.

Hermes-Monkstown withstood that spell and duly forged the crucial chance in the closing seconds, working the ball to Evans at the top with her back to

goal from where she unleashed a low reverse that the impressive Emma Buckley could not get enough of a boot on with the ball pinging in off her toe and off the post and in.

Elsewhere, Loreto grabbed their third win of the campaign with a 3-1 win over Pembroke to move into sixth place as Pembroke remain in search of their opening points of the campaign.

Niamh Small finished well for 1-0 before Freya McDermott then swept home a corner to double the half-time advantage with Sarah Evans completing the win.

17 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

Crumlin prodigy Hand follows McGregor’s lead Fourteen-year-old Liam keeping up the Old County Glen tradition as he lands Irish national Muay Thai title just five months since taking up the sport with Ryoshu Fight-Team  KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

HAILING from the same estate as Conor McGregor, Crumlin’s Liam Hand showed that he could be one to watch for the future as he returned from Derry as the new Muay Thai junior champion.

There, he recorded a hard fought victory over local and defending champion Sean McGettigan to continue his rapid rise in the combat sport that combines striking and various clinching techniques.

Turning 15 at the end of the month and from Old County Glen, Hand has been making a name for himself in the Muay Thai world of late and took his reputation a step further with another impressive victory.

He competes for the Ryoshin Fight-Team in Cherr y Orchard and only took up the sport five months ago but has already made remarkable progress.

His coach Gabor Hortobagyi spoke after the fight about how confident he was Hand could do in the Sport.

“I started the warm-up with Liam and I felt his punches and kicks were solid and confident,” he said. “I had no doubt that we would be bringing the belt home to Dublin.

“It was a spectacular fight and all credit to Liam’s very strong opponent Sean who put up a very strong battle.”

If Hand’s win in Derry wasn’t impressive enough already, add in the fact that he also fought and won in

Santry the next day.

One of his biggest supporters is his mother Molly and she spoke to GazetteSport about how her son first became involved in Muay Thai and what the future may hold for him.

“He is so sports orientated. He was, up until recently, playing GAA but left that and took up Muay Thai off his own back.

He’s only five months into it, which is unreal considering what he has achieved so far.

“His coach Gabor is so dedicated and saw potential in him straight away so took him out on his own.

Seemingly, they’ve never seen it in a young fella that’s so new to it.”

Any successful MMA fighter knows hard work and dedication are vital if you want to succeed,

Liam Hand and coach Gabor Hortobagyi celebrate their success in Derry

something that Molly sees in Liam on a daily basis. Indeed, Liam’s daily schedule is something that belies his age and would have most adults running for cover.

“He gets home about 3.40pm and does his homework straight away before Gabor picks him up at around five. He is on a

study then straight to bed.

On top of all that, he could be up again at six o’clock to go for a run.

“We only got home from Derry at four o’clock in the morning and he was up in Santry at 9am a few hours later.”

Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand but its popularity has started to

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

‘Seemingly, they’ve never seen potential like it in a young fella that’s so new to it’ - Molly Hand

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

strict diet so I have to go by what he [Gabor] tells me he has to eat; everything is discipline.

“He doesn’t get home until about 9pm so he does about half an hour

spread far and wide across the planet.

It is known as “the art of eight limbs” because of its combined use of fists, elbows, knees and shins.

Liam is ambidextrous, a fact that may explain why he has taken to the sport with such ease and why big things could lie ahead for him. With the UFC now likely to be the dream destination for any young MMA fighters, mothers across the country could be concerned about their sons getting involved in combat sports due to the physical nature of it.

But Molly is backing her son in his chosen pursuit: “I’ve always said I would rather him be in music or ballet but no matter what Liam wants to do I will support him 110% all the way,” she added.

Liam will next compete in the Cage Legacy event in Drogheda on November 26.

FASTSport

Nure stung by Cookies comeback in UBL 1A TERENURE College narrowly missed out on a result against high-flying Young Munster on a 31-23 scoreline at Lakelands Park in the Ulster Bank League Division 1A. Terenure gave a strong account of themselves, belying their current position of tenth in the table.

Flanker Niall Lalor’s first-minute try set them on their way to a 13-7 interval lead.

Munsters recovered well, though, showing the poise of table toppers as winger David Gleeson was freed up for a 19th minute run to the line.

However, two well-struck penalties from Nure full-back Jake Swaine after 22 and 38 minutes had the hosts in front at the break.

The Cookies’ powerful pack was to the fore as the Limerick men responded with two tries in the space of six minutes, centre Jack Harrington and hooker and captain Ger Slattery both crossing the whitewash for a 21-13 turnaround.

Winger Marc Hiney’s 65th-minute converted effort made it a one-point game and although Swaine took his impressive place-kicking tally to 13 points, ‘Nure agonisingly fell short of even a losing bonus point.

Either side of Swaine’s 74th-minute penalty, Munsters scrum half Rob Guerin seized the initiative to run in his fourth try of the campaign, converted by Swaine’s opposite number David O’Mahony who also added a late penalty to complete his crucial 11-point haul.

Elsewhere, Lansdowne continued their winning run with a storming 45-10 triumph over UCD on the Aviva Stadium’s back pitch on Friday night.

Mike Ruddock’s men tightened their grip on second spot, running in six converted tries through backs Alan Bennie (2) and Foster Horan and forwards Paul Boyle, Max Deegan and Philip Donnellan.

Scrum half Bennie sniped over in their very first attack and after a UCD yellow card and scrum pressure from the hosts before half-time, number 8 Boyle touched down off the back of an advancing set piece, five metres out, for a 17-3 interval lead.

Lansdowne’s powerful pack remained on top in the second half, with tactically astute 13-point out-half Scott Deasy keeping them stationed in the right areas of the pitch.

GAZETTE

30 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 17 November 2016

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: BALLYFERMOT CLUB HELD TO 1-1 DRAW BY FIRHOUSE

Ormond already lining up next bout after Bazo win STEPHEN Ormond is set to compete in his third fight in nine weeks after been announced as part of the MGM Scotland show at the Lagoon Leisure Centre in Paisley on December 3.

Fresh from his win over Daniel Bazo in Belfast last week, Ormond is looking forward to his third fight since signing for Marbella based gym MGM. The Rock’s first fight under their management was against Hungarian unknown Zoltan Szabo in Glasgow. It resulted in an unexpected loss for the Clondalkin man after Szabo stopped him in the fifth round.

He learned a lot from that loss and after Czech Bazo retired during the third round claiming a shoulder injury, he is now itching to set the record straight if he is granted a rematch with Szabo.

He spoke to GazetteSport about his victory over Bazo and where he hopes to go from here.

“It was good to get the win after the last fight; that was the main thing. He pulled out with a sore arm but I know his arm wasn’t really sore and I would have liked to get a better finish on him, but a win is a win.

“I took my time instead of the previous fight where I rushed out. I said I would take my time, do my thing, then after a couple of rounds step on the pedal.”

Having previously had his coach Paschal Collins also act as his manager, Ormond chose to sign with MGM in the hope of fighting on a more regular basis.

“One thing about them is they look after their fighters. This is my third fight in nine weeks, which is something I haven’t experienced since I was an amateur.

“They want to get me out there straight away.

Obviously, the first fight wasn’t good and I hope to get him back but either way I will get there.”

Ormond has come close to gaining a shot at a world title in the past but something has always gone wrong for him. At 33-years-old, he knows chances won’t keep coming his way so getting there has become something of an obsession for him.

“I have gotten obsessed with getting there.

Even at home in the house when I’m with my kid and my girlfriend, I have to try and forget about boxing because I get too serious into it. I can’t change now; it’s too late to go back so I’d rather keep going because it’s my destiny.”

Cherry Orchard have been in flying form since promotion to the LSL Sunday Senior

Cherries picked off by Clover LSL SUNDAY SENIOR

Firhouse Clover Cherry Orchard  sport@dublingazette.com

1 1

TITLE CHASING Sunday Senior League newcomers Cherry Orchard were held to 1-1 away at Firhouse Clover in the Leinster Senior League clash at Tallaght IT on Sunday.

Ballyfermot side Orchard have been a revelation on their return to the top tier of Leinster football this season, fully living up to the pre-season prediction made by Andy Noonan, boss of champions Bluebell United, who anticipated a title chal-

lenge from the promoted club.

Classy Orchard were comfortably in charge in the early stages, taking the lead on 15 minutes with Ryan Coombes lashing home from a fine cross by Sean Dixon.

Orchard’s wing play has been a feature of their season – their stunning win from two goals down at home to Malahide United early in the year came almost entirely from balls swung dangerously into the box – and continued to threaten from out wide throughout the game.

Both Coombes and Aaron Sheehan went close for the Ballyfermot

IRELAND’S CALL St Francis duo make debut for Irish U-15s ST FRANCIS duo Conor Carty and Cormac Moore were both part of the Republic of Ireland Under-15s who drew 0-0 away to Poland in their first game as an international side.

The Irish looked bright early throughout wit Troy Parrott having a shot saved in the opening minutes while Festy Ebosele also went close.

Carty had the ball in the Polish net in the 60th minute but was flagged offside.

side as Firhouse struggled to get into the game.

The Tallaght club have been inconsistent so far this season, and rarely threatened the Ballyfermot side’s backline until just before half time, when Dylan McGrath couldn’t get enough power on a cross from Carl Wynne to nudge home.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Coombes and Sheehan again threatening. The former spurned a number of chances to put the game to bed early on, including a one-on-one with the Firhouse ‘keeper that he overplayed and couldn’t quite put away.

With 20 minutes remaining, Clover went up the other end and won a vital free-kick. With the initial shot forcing a good save, Dean McLaughlin reacted quickest and tap the ball into the Orchard net from a few yards out.

Clover then enjoyed a brief period of control following the goal, the only time during the evening that they looked truly in control of proceedings.

But with time running out, they seemed happy to take a point off the Sunday Senior pacesetters.

Clover’s own title challenge last year – which still looked a decent long shot with a few games to go –

relied on picking up points against a number of tops sides, and they might have one eye on a repeat as they sit poised in fourth.

Orchard, though, largely outclassed their hosts and will feel that the outcome of a game in which they were rarely threatened is a case of two points dropped.

The draw – both sides first of the season – leaves Orchard top of the league on goal difference ahead of holders Bluebell, as well as having two games in hand on the Red Cow side.

Alongside Bluebell, fellow fast-risers St Mochta’s look like the other earlyseason title challengers.

17 November 2016 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

Double delight for Under-16 footballers

 sport@dublingazette.com

ROUND Tower’s Under16s footballers finished the season in style by completing the double with an incredible 12-6 to 2-4 league win over the Fingal Ravens at Rolestown.

It was a dominant performance from the midfield that was complimented with clinical fin-

ishing from their forward line.

While it was an excellent team performance the standout men were undoubtedly Adam Eustace who stamped his authority on the game from the centre of the pitch, and Andy Rigney who finished the game with no less than six goals to his name.

Manager Mark Casey

was delighted with his team’s performance to round off a remarkable season for the team.

“It was a great win for the lads today, superb. It was clinical play from the midfield and forwards, and very hard work put in by the defence to hold Fingal Ravens to a 2-4 score line,” said Casey.

The league trophy will now sit in the trophy cabi-

net beside the championship title they won back in May after another impressive 5-11 to 1-7 win over Trinity Gaels at Parnell Park.

Elsewhere, the club’s AHL Division 3 side saw their hope of promotion to the senior league ranks come to an end as Naomh Olaf got the better of the Clondalkin club in their playoff semi-final.

HURLING: KEOGH BOOKENDS PLAYOFF SEMI-FINAL WIN

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ROUND TOWER, CLONDALKIN THANKS to the huge numbers who turned

27, commencing at 4pm. Motions, rec-

out at Monastery Road and at the club as

ommendations and nominations can

we honoured Jim and Frank for the mag-

be submitted to the club secretary in a

nificent achievements with the Dublin

secure box behind the bar or by email –

footballers in 2016.

secretary.roundtowersclondalkin.dub-

Disappointingly, our senior hurl-

lin@gaa.ie.

ers league campaign came to an end

Only paid up members are entitled to

at semi-final play-off stage over the

attend and only A members are eligible

weekend with defeat to Naomh Olaf.

to vote. A listing of club membership is

But better news for our junior hurlers

now posted within the club hallway.

who defeated Realt Dearg by two points

The bingo jackpot this Tuesday is

to set up a league final play-off final

€1,000 for a full house if checked within

against Wild Geese. Details of the final

45 numbers.

will be published when available.

Congratulations our U-16 footballers who completed a league and champion-

Game is usually €90-€150. Otherwise €20 for a full house. First call is 8.30pm and all are welcome to join in the fun.

ship double over the weekend. They com-

The Round Tower Lotto (November 7)

prehensively defeated Fingal Ravens in

jackpot was €10,000. Numbers drawn

Rolestown to claim Division 5 glory.

were 1, 5, 16 and 22; the bonus ball was

Commiserations to our U-13 hurlers who were narrowly defeated by Liffey Gaels in their league play-off.

The Round Tower AGM will be hosted in the clubhouse on Sunday, November

21. No overall winner and no bonus ball winner.

Three €100 winners: Eamon O’Shea, Ray Dunne, Billy O’Connor. Thank you to all who support the lotto.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN THE lotto numbers for this week were 4,

continues on Friday and will be on from

7, 11 and 18.

6-7pm next week. Everyone welcome.

There was two winners so next week the jackpot will be €1,000. Congrats to our two winners.

Draw takes place in the Palmerstown House every Sunday night at 10pm and Realt Dearg and Round Tower battle for possession

Tower’s shoot down Realt Dearg ascent AHL DIVISION 8 PLAYOFF

Round Tower Realt Dearg  sport@dublingazette.com

1-9 1-7

ROUND Tower’s junior hurlers are now just one victory away from league glory after a hard fought 1-9 to 1-7 win over Realt Dearg in the AHL Division 8 at Monastery Road.

The team were confident going into the top four playoff clash having lost only once during a table-topping season for the Clondalkin men.

Ruarai Keogh opened the scoring with a free for Tower’s before backing that up with two points

from play.

Half-back Niall Corless then stretched their lead before centre-forward Martin Doyle put over the bar to leave Tower’s up by 0-5 to 0-1 after 15 minutes.

Realt were not to be put away that easy, however, scoring three unanswered points to drag themselves back into the game.

Tower’s responded in perfect fashion, scoring their first goal of the game from the hurl of Philip Carroll after an excellent take from Doyle.

Realt took advantage of a mix up from a short puck-out to score another point before narrowly

denying Carroll another goal through a block from a diving defender. It proved to be the last point of the half with the score at 1-6 to 0-5 going into the break.

The second half was a lot less eventful as both defences came out on top in a low-scoring half.

Tower’s struck first after two minutes when Niall Corless pointed with an excellent long range free.

The next score didn’t come until the 42nd minute but it was a massive one for the visitors as a free-in evaded the Tower’s defence who had camped out on the line.

Donnacha Rafferty pointed another long range free for Tower’s to give them a bit of breathing space but, having been buoyed by their goal, Realt started to throw everything at their opponents.

They tried to profit once more by punting frees into the Tower’s box but, this time, the defence stood firm. Realt eventually reduced the deficit heading into the final 12 minutes and Tower’s looked nervy as they racked up four wides.

Eve n t u a l l y K e o g h struck a free to book Tower’s a place in final where Wild Geese await.

It’s a great chance for the kids to learn from experienced coaches.

Our juvenile bag pack will take place on November 19 and 20 in Moriartys and we appreciate everyone’s support.

tickets cost €2. Thank you to all our sell-

Our annual Mass will take place in the

ers and to all that support our lotto

clubhouse on Saturday, November 26 at

every week.

8pm and all are welcome.

Tickets available from all the usual

New members welcome at all ages, full

sellers including Moriarty’s SuperValu,

training will be given and check out our

Palmerstown House and Manor Hair

website for training times.

Studios.

Our Friday hurling and camogie skills

LUCAN SARSFIELDS

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

SENIOR football update: Cuala lost their

nights while the Bingo continues every

latest league game on Sunday which

Wednesday evening at 8.30pm with free

means that Lucan Sarsfields are guar-

tea/coffee.

anteed to retain their division one status for next season.

Minor B camogie were due to be in championship action away to Naomh

The club shop is newly stocked and back in action and is open on Thursday 7-9pm and on Saturday from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

Mearnog but that has been put off for

The Lucan District Credit Union Acad-

a week while the minor Cs had a home

emy is on Saturday mornings; 9.30am

encounter that they lost against Ball-

is the start for girls and 10am for the

inteer.

boys. New members (5+) always wel-

The club’s Annual General Meeting is to be held on Thursday, November 24 while Mass will be celebrated at the

come. €15,000 was the prize on offer for this week’s lotto.

clubhouse on Thursday, November 17 at

This week, there was no winner

8pm for the repose of the souls of club

where the numbers were 7, 10, 18 and 19.

members, relatives and friends who

This week’s sponsor was Colaiste Lai-

have passed away during the past year.

chtin and next week’s €15,500 draw will

The 25 card drive is on Friday night

be managed by Team Josephine Dono-

9pm.

The Cupla Focal club is back in action on Monday nights 8pm.

Set dancing is back on Wednesday

ghue.

Tickets can be purchased online, at the club, in Carey’s Newsagents or in Vesey Arms or Kenny’s Bar.

32 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 17 November 2016