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Gazette DUBLIN CITY

October 20 - 26, 2016

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Hospital staff shortages putting patients at risk INMO points to ‘bad working conditions’ as hospitals struggle to find up to 350 staff

 AISLING KENNEDY PATIENT care is at risk in Dublin hospitals due to staff shortages with up to 350 staff vacancies at Beaumont, Connolly and the Mater this month alone.

A spokesperson for the

Royal College of Surgeons (RCSI) announced that there are approximately 195 vacancies at Beaumont Hospital, 61 vacancies at Connolly Hospital, and 91 vacancies at the Mater Hospital.

The Irish Nursing and

Midwives Association (INMO) believes that there are many issues behind staff shortages in nursing.

Lorraine Monaghan, INMOs Industrial Relations Officer for North Dublin told The Gazette that “bad working condi-

tions, unmanageable workloads due to staff shortages, and major competition from nursing roles in the UK who offer more favourable terms of employment” are causing problems in recruiting new nursing staff in Dublin.

Full Story on Page 2

2 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 October 2016

HEALTH | UP TO 350 STAFF VACANCIES AT DUBLIN HOSPITALS

FASTNews

Lack of staff ‘putting patient care at risk’ DCC calls on locals  AISLING KENNEDY

PATIENT care is at risk in Dublin hospitals due to staff shortages with up to 350 staff vacancies at Beaumont, Connolly, and the Mater Hospital this month alone.

In a question put forward by Cllr Noeleen Reilly (SF) at the Regional Health Forum for the Dublin and North East constituencies as to how these vacancies are broken down, a spokesperson for the Royal College of Surgeons (RCSI) stated that there are approximately 195 vacancies at Beaumont Hospital, 61 vacancies at Connolly Hospital, and 91 vacancies at the Mater Hospital.

When asked to explain what is being done about the staff shortages across Dublin hospitals,

a spokesperson for RCSI said: “The RCSI Hospitals Group recognises the need for ongoing recruitment drives due to the movement of staff across the HSE, to other healthcare services in Ireland and abroad.

Recruitment campaigns have been local, national and international with present ongoing campaigns.”

The spokesperson added: “All newly-qualified nurses in Beaumont Hospital and Connolly Hospital are being offered permanent job contracts.”

While some staff grades and areas can be difficult to recruit such as medical scientists, radiotherapists, non consultant hospital doctors in specialities (orthopaedics & anaesthetics), psychologists and nursing (thea-

tre, ICU and endoscopy staff nurses), the Irish Nursing and Midwives Association (INMO) believes that there are many other issues behind staff shortages in nursing.

Lorraine Monaghan, INMOs industrial relations officer for North Dublin told the Gazette: “The problem for nursing is in recruiting and retaining staff.

This is down to bad working conditions, unmanageable workloads due to staff shortages, and major competition from nursing roles in the UK who offer more favourable terms of employment.”

Cllr Noeleen Reilly said she believed more could be done by hospital management across the Dublin region and said: “I am really very concerned at the

level of staff shortages in Beaumont, Connolly and the Mater Hospital.

“This is putting patient care at risk and already we have seen an increase in the number of cancellations for surgery.

“These surgery cancellations are happening on a daily basis right across our broken health system and they are understandably having a devastating impact on long suffering patients and their families.”

She added: “Any effort to retain existing and recruit further nursing staff will only succeed if a believable financial commitment is made by government to expand health workforce numbers to the level needed to radically reshape the working environment in our health system.”

to report stockpiling of bonfire material

DUBLIN City Council is asking people to report any stockpiling of material for bonfires ahead of Halloween night.

All bonfires are illegal and the council will carry out dozens of stockpiling raids removing bonfire material between now and Halloween.

It’s all part of its drive to promote a safe Halloween that all the community can enjoy.

This includes family-friendly Halloween events around the city, licensed fireworks displays and Dublin Fire Brigade’s Safety Awareness Campaign.

The council will use #dubsafehalloween to promote this on social media and is encouraging the public to use this hashtag when posting their own safe Halloween content.

Simon Brock of the council’s Waste Management Services said: “Dublin City Council is again putting in place an extensive action plan for the 2016 Halloween period.

“Offering a safe environment for everyone to celebrate Halloween and stopping illegal bonfires has played a major part in reducing the damage Halloween has traditionally caused.

“We need your support in this and are asking you to report incidents of stockpiling of bonfire material to us as soon as possible so we can remove the material and avoid the risk of serious injury to our children and damage to our environment over the Halloween period.”

Dublin Fire Brigade will use #firesafety on social media to promote their safety awareness campaign.

Cops swoop on TWENTY properties in crackdown

Aldi awards €500 to Friends of the Rotunda Hospital ALDI’S Rathmines store staff have awarded Friends of the Rotunda Hospital a €500 grant in recognition of its tremendous work within the local community and to help support its services.

The €500 grant was presented to Sheila Thompson (left), Friends of the Rotunda Hospital’s marketing manager and Marie Malone (right), board member of Friends of the Rotunda Hospital, by Lucia Rovnanova, Aldi’s Rathmine’s Charity Champion.

THE Criminal Assets Bureau seized 46 cars during a series of dawn raids in Clondalkin and Saggart on Tuesday.

CAB officers also took up to 60,000 in cash and jewellery in the searches on private and commercial premises organised as part of a probe into serious and organised crime.

The bureau was backed up by armed gardai from the Organised Crime and Emergency Response Units who raided 20 locations including garages, car showrooms, solicitors’ and accountants’ offices and industrial lock-ups.

The raids are part of an ongoing investigation into the activities of a Ronanstown-based gang believed to have links to the Kinahan cartel.

The gang is involved in the drugs trade, mainly dealing in cocaine, and is also suspected of largescale money laundering. The main target is a 30-year-old from Clondalkin who is well-known to gardaí and has been caught with drugs in the past.

VAT fraud and VRT irregularities are also being investigated.

20 October 2016 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 3

GIBSON IS LOOKING FOR IRISH WOMEN TO STAR IN HIS NEW FILM

What Mel wants NO SHAVED HEADS

NO VISABLE TATOOS

 AISLING KENNEDY IN hit comedy What Women Want Mel Gibson played an advertising executive who starts a crash program to research being a woman.

This leads him to experiment with lip gloss, eye shadow, pantyhose and defoliation.

Now the Hollywood legend is looking for Irish women to come forward to join him on the set of his new movie, The Professor and the Madman, in Dublin.

NO FAKE TAN

The production company behind the movie, Icon Entertainment, is looking for ladies with specific qualities, or as they say in the movies, ‘a very particular set of skills,’ to take part as extras.

They’re looking for women who are 5’3- 5’8 in height with a waist size of 26-28’, a bust size of 34-36’ and a dress size between 8 and 10. So just about everyone then..?

Fake tan is out, as are fake nails, and hair should be natu-

NO DYED HAIR

ral in colour and of medium or long length – no shaved heads or undercuts. Plucked/shaved eyebrows are also not accepted, nor are obvious tattoos.

If you’re a woman between the ages of 20 to 60 years old that fits the above description, then log onto MovieExtras.ie for more information.

The movie will begin shooting at the start of October in the Dublin/Wicklow areas and it will run right through to the end of November. Break a leg ladies!

Requirements

4 Gender: Female 4 Height 5’3- 5’8 4 Dress size 8-10 4 Waist: 26-28

4 4 4 4

Bust 34-36’ Age: 20 - 60 Ethnicity: Caucasian

4 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 October 2016

SAFETY | NEW POLICING CAMPAIGN AS 12 ROAD DEATHS IN DUBLIN THIS YEAR

Don’t run the red light!  EMMA NOLAN

WITH the number of deaths on our roads reaching unprecedented levels this year, Gardai are running Safer Roads for Dublin – a safety initiative starting this month.

This year has seen 13 road deaths in Dublin so far – two more than in 2015.

Supported by the Road Safety Authority, the campaign aims to reduce the number and severity of road traffic collisions, focusing on the issue of red light running.

October and November are traditionally high-risk periods on Dublin roads.

There are 1,620 sets of traffic lights in the Dublin region across all four local authorities and gardai say that every day, road users put themselves at great risk by driving, cycling or crossing through red lights.

Though it may appear to be a minor traffic

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

‘When you consider there are 1,620 sets of traffic lights in Dublin ... every day equals 1,620 potential collision’ --------------------------

Chief Superintendent Aidan Reid, head of Dublin’s Traffic Corps --------------------------

infringement, the potential for harm is very great when, for example, a car encounters a cyclist where one of them has broken the red light.

The campaign is not only aimed at drivers, it is also aimed at cyclists and pedestrians and uses a mix of education and enforcement in an effort to change road user behaviour and make the roads safer.

One school taking part

is St Columba’s Primary on North Strand.

The pupils of the school are so concerned about red light running that they have created their own postcard safety messages – an initiative which An Garda Siochana and all partner stakeholders say they are proud to support.

Chief Superintendent Aidan Reid, head of Dublin’s Traffic Corps, said it is initiatives such as the one at St Columba’s that really make a difference.

He said: “It seems a simple ask – simply obeying the rules of the road when the traffic light is red – and maybe a lesser offence, but when you consider there are 1,620 sets of traffic lights in Dublin, even one breach [at each] every day equals 1,620 potential collisions.

“Heed the message we are sending out today – don’t gamble with your safety; red means ‘Stop’ for all.”

Whether running a red light – or ‘just’ cycling or walking through one – everybody in Dublin runs the risks of severe injury, or even death, if they ignore the red light

Happy snapping with some of our great reader shots

FASTNews Two GoCar vehicles are torched in suspected arson attack

TWO “GoCars” were burnt out in a suspected arson attack in Dublin 8 on Tuesday night.

Gardai say the cars, which were parked next to one another at the junction of Malpas Street and Blackpitts, were torched sometime between 9pm and midnight.

Gardai in Kevin Street are investigating the incident as an arson attack.

A spokesman said yesterday: “Two males were seen running from the scene in the direction of the South Circular Road.”

A motive for the attack is not yet known and the scene has been preserved pending a forensic examination by members of the garda technical bureau GoCar is a car sharing company where subscribers access vehicles with their own swipe card and then start the car using a PIN number.

The majority of their cars are low-emission.

OAP hit by car dies in hospital

THE Gazette is always delighted to show and share your shots – and just take a look at these great pics! Although the shy snappers forgot to tell us who they were, we’re happy to be able to show how you see our great city.

First up, one eagle-eyed reader spotted the Christmas lights going up in Grafton Street on Tuesday night (although we have yet to get through Halloween), while our second reader had a nice, contrasting night study of a certain nearby college.

Don’t forget – we’re always on the look-out for any cool, quirky or pretty shots of Dublin city, your neighbourhood or what you are up to, so send in your shots with as much information as you can (along with your name too, of course)! Just email picturedesk@dublingazette.com – and happy snapping!

AN elderly pedestrian seriously injured in a collision with a car in Donaghmede last week has died.

The incident happened on the Grange Road just after 10am on Thursday last.

The 69-year-old woman was rushed to the Beaumont Hospital where her condition had been described as serious.

The male driver and female passenger, both in their 60s, were uninjured.

Gardai are appealing for witnesses.

20 October 2016 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 5

TRAVEL WOES | ‘CHEAP AIRLINE’ CONDITIONS

Passengers air their grievances over ‘filthy’ flight  EMMA NOLAN PASSENGERS were left disgusted by the “filthy” conditions on their Ryanair flight from Tenerife to Dublin on Friday night.

Niamh O’Donoghue and her partner Jake McCabe (both 23) from Nor th Dublin were returning from their holiday when they were forced to sit in what they described as squalid conditions on their flight home.

“I know it’s a cheap airline, but they could at least treat their passengers with some respect,” Niamh told The Gazette.

“We chose Ryanair because we figured it would cut the cost somewhat. We’ve since learned that there are some things - like flying, for example - that just can’t be done cheaply.”

Niamh said that they noticed the unclean condition of the plane as soon as they got on board.

“Sure they don’t give any time to clean the plane when it lands from the previous flight. It’s literally like a sky taxi service,” she said.

Apart from the visible mess left over from the

Discarded food was found all over the floor and seats

previous flight, which consisted of discarded food all over the floor and seats, Niamh said there was a bad smell too.

She said: “There was what looked like crushed muffins all over the carpet, along with lots of stains.

Crisps “There was melted chocolate and crisps on the seats and along the aisles too.

“As well as that, my window was out of its socket which made me a bit nervous and the toilet hadn’t

been emptied before we boarded so there was a bit of a smell from that too.”

The staff on the flight appeared stressed so Niamh didn’t complain at the time.

“It’s not their job to clean up. Their jobs are hard enough already!”

Niamh says that she and Jake have been extremely put off by this experience and will be avoiding the airline as best they can.

“I know we won’t be flying with Ryanair again in a hurry,” she added.

Ryanair said there isn’t sufficient evidence to prove these photos were taken on a Ryanair flight.

The Gazette provided them with a video taken

by Niamh on the flight and a spokesperson responded, saying: “There is no evidence this video was recorded on the flight mentioned or at what stage.

“All Ryanair aircraft are cleaned by professionals at the end of each day and the crew carry out a cabin tidy at the end of every flight.”

Airport protests loom as runway opposition rises PROTESTS are expected to be staged at Dublin Airport as the groundswell of support for groups opposed to the new runway gains momentum.

Residents affected by the proposed €310 million Runway North want assurances that the Dublin Airport Authority (daa) will have to abide by planning conditions restricting night flights.

The daa wants the restrictions lifted – but residents living beside the runway and along the flight path fear the noise disruption will severely impact their already diminished quality of life.

Night flying restrictions – imposed by An Bord

Pleanala – can now be potentially overturned by the Irish Aviation Authority after Transport Minister Shane Ross gave it new powers to manage noise control.

Now, umbrella group FORUM (Fingal Organised Residents United Movement) is warning of protests after a public meeting attracted more than 400 people.

The daa argues that the restrictions would hamper operations and would have disastrous effects for growth and job creation. Another public meeting of FORUM is expected before Christmas.

6 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 October 2016

DUBLINGazetteGALLERY |

STARS LINE OUT FOR THE COMMITMENTS MUSICAL

Brendan Courtney, Jenny Neville and Adam Marynaik. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Emma Nicholson and Kate Denston

Model Kerri Nicole Blanc Linda Byrne and Anne Byrne

Karole Sadier and Paul Harrington

Author Roddy Doyle

20 October 2016 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 7

PREMIERE WHICH TOOK PLACE IN THE BORD GAIS ENERGY THEATRE

A fantastic feel good celebration of soul T

HERE were plenty of well-known faces who stepped out on the red carpet for the Irish Premiere of the musical The Commitments at The Bord Gais Energy Theatre, Dublin.

The Roddy Doyle classic might be three decades old but none of its charm, popularity or roof-raising

energy have disappeared. Guests included Vogue Williams, Gay Byrne and Samantha Mumba. The Commitments musical received critical acclaim following its London World Premiere and was quickly hailed as a smash hit. Now it comes home to Dublin, where it all began.

Michele McGrath and Orla Hogan

Saoirse Smith and Claire Whelanat

Ciara Murray

Vogue Williams

Kathlen Watkins and Gay Byrne

8 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 October 2016

Work starts on first affordable  EMMA NOLAN

WORK has just started on the only affordable housing development currently underway in the country.

The construction of 49 new homes in Poppintree in Ballymun by O Cuallann Cohousing Alliance is a social enterprise scheme, designed to provide homes at affordable prices.

The development is comprised of 49 units, including, two, threeand four-bedroom houses. The houses are aimed at those whose incomes range from €36,000€80,000 and who are currently members of local co-ops or are living in the North West area of Dublin.

The A2 rated, blockbuilt homes should be

ready for the new homeowners to move into in from February 2017 to August 2018.

The houses are priced between €140,000, for a two-bedroom terraced house and €219,000 for a four-bedroom detached house.

Local councillor Noeleen Reilly said that the development is “vitally important”.

She said: “I am absolutely delighted that the Sod Turning is taking place today in Poppintree. I live down the road and it is great to see the construction of new homes taking place in the neighbourhood.

“O Cualann could certainly give the Government a lesson or two in what is actually affordable housing. The housing action plan quotes

€240k which we know is out of the reach of many families in need of housing.”

All of the homes have been allocated to current members of O Cualann, most of whom live or work in the Dublin North West area. There is also a significant waiting list for similar homes.

CEO of O Cualann, Hugh Brennan said he believes his company are providing part of the solution to the housing crisis.

“There is clearly a need for social housing – but we also need to make homes available to families and couples who earn a decent living, but cannot afford to pay the sort of prices currently being asked for homes in Dublin,” he said.

In the mood to promote a worthy cause MAXOL have teamed up with charity partner AWARE to raise funds for the charity with Mood Walks. The aim of Mood Walks is to raise vital funds while

encouraging members of the community to come together for a good cause. AWARE’s focus is to promote positive mental health in communities nationwide.

Pictured at the first of nationwide Mood Walks at Maxol Ringsend are Karl Hickey, Mary O’Toole, Jennifer Betts, Sue Cross and Drew Flood.

20 October 2016 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 9

FASTNews

Woman has to be rushed to hospital after Santry blaze A WOMAN was rushed to hospital after a fire broke out on the top floor of a block of flats in Santry on Tusday.

Four fire engines, one emergency attender and two ambulances rushed to the scene, just off Santry Avenue in Domville Woods.

Fire fighters from Finglas, Blanchardstown and North Strand attended the blaze around 9pm.

They were forced to evacuate several apartments.

A spokesman for Dublin Fire Brigade said: “The fire began in the hallway of the topfloor of Domville Woods apartment block.

“One woman was taken to hospital after she received injuries attempting to selfevacuate.”

The cause of the fire is not known but the blaze has been controlled.

COURTS | MAN’S JAW WAS BROKEN IN TWO PLACES AFTER ATTACK BY BUSKER

‘Musician’ to be sentenced next year over brutal assault A “talented musician” and “caring father” handed himself into gardai after his assault on a Croatian man was featured on RTE’s CrimeCall.

Bernard McDonagh (30) punched the man who was knocked unconscious and fell to the ground landing face first. He broke his jaw in two places and suffered damage to several teeth.

McDonagh, of Barn Lodge, Cappogue in Finglas, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing harm at Dame Lane in the city centre on June 17, 2015.

He has 19 previous convictions, mainly for public order offences. He will be sentenced early next year.

The court heard that at the time of the attack, the victim was walking down Dame Lane and stopped to talk to a group of people which included McDonagh.

As he was talking, McDonagh came from his left side and hit him with his

fist in a swinging punch.

The man was knocked unconscious and was unable to save himself from falling to the ground.

McDonagh ran from the scene and a passer-by administered first aid and called an ambulance.

The victim had no recollection of the assault and thought he may have been knocked down. He later reported the matter to gardai and said he had a vague memory of being on Dame Lane.

The victim had to have his jaw wired shut for several weeks and now requires dental surgery on his teeth.

He had only been in Ireland a number of weeks before the assault and has since returned to Croatia.

Judge Melanie Greally said, after reading a psychologist’s repor t, that McDonagh had to start making meaningful efforts to address his issues with alcohol.

She said the courts had been lenient with McDonagh in the past and it had little effect on his behaviour.

She adjourned the case until March 27 next year to give time for a probation report be completed and to allow McDonagh gather further compensation for his victim who requires costly dental surgery.

Gardai recovered CCTV which showed the assault taking place and it was shown on RTE’s CrimeCall with a view to identifying the perpetrator.

Garda Noleen Byrne said she received a call from a solicitor the following day to say McDonagh wished to hand himself him.

He went to Pearse Street garda station and made full admissions.

Gda By rne agreed with Kenneth Kerins BL , defending, that McDonagh had been apologetic.

The district court judge refused jurisdiction and he came forward to

Man who tried to sneak 22,000 cigarettes into the

Ancient bones discovered in Hellfire dig ARCHAEOLOGISTS are excavating what they believe is an ancient passage tomb at the back of the ruins of the Hellfire Club in the Dublin Mountains.

The dig which is expected to last until the end of the month has uncovered the remains of the stone cairn that once formed the main mound of the tomb.

The team has also found flint from people making stone tools over 5,000 years ago, along with charcoal and some tiny fragments of burnt bone.

the Circuit Court on a signed plea of guilty.

Mr Kerins handed in psychologist’s report and number of testimonials on his client’s behalf.

He said McDonagh was a talented musician and a caring father who brought his children to school each day.

One of his children had a hearing impairment and as a result McDonagh and his wife had learned sign language. He said his client had €500 in court as a gesture of remorse.

Counsel said there was no rational explanation for what had happened, describing it as a “Jekyll and Hyde incident”.

He said McDonagh engaged in his community and public life in a real and meaningful way and it was hard to reconcile what had happened to the man described in the testimonials.

Graham Norton’s new book launch is a right page-turner TV star Graham Norton was at Dublin’s Mansion House this week to speak about his new book, Holding, a brilliantly crafted Irish story of love, secrets and loss. The evening featured a Q&A session and each attendee received a signed copy of the book. Pictured at the event are LJ and Amy Hyland.

Picture: Andres Poveda

A LITHUANIAN man has been barred from Ireland for three years after he was caught trying to smuggle 22,000 cigarettes into the country.

Algirdas Dapkunas (47) has also been given a suspended six-month sentence for attempting to bring the cigarettes, with a value of over €11,700 through Dublin Airport without paying duty.

Dapkunas, with an address in Kaunas, Lithuania, hid his return boarding pass in his sock when questioned by customs officials about his suitcase full of Marlboro Gold cigarettes, Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard.

The court heard that Dapkunas flew into Dublin from his native Lithuania via Sweden on August 18 this year and was stopped at the green channel in Dublin Airport. It was his first time to visit Dublin and he has been in custody since his arrest two months ago.

An X-ray search of his luggage revealed he was carrying the 22,000 cigarettes. The amount

owed to customs on such a haul is just over €7,000.

Dapkunas, who is a divorced father with no previous convictions, told customs officials he brought in the cigarettes “because they are a little more expensive in Ireland”, the court heard. When asked if he planned to sell them, he said “of course, some”, Mr Heller said.

When he was searched, a boarding pass for a return flight to Lithuania that evening was discovered in Dapkunas’ sock.

Defence barrister Donal Parsons BL said that Dapkunas supported his son and his mother, who recently underwent surgery.

He was paid €200 – one-third of his monthly salary – to deliver the cigarettes.

Judge Melanie Greally noted Dapkunas had given a “full and frank account” of his actions.

She handed down a six-month sentence and suspended it on a number of conditions including that Dapkunas depart from Dublin within seven days and not return to Ireland for three years.

10 GAZETTE 20 October 2016

GazetteGALLERY

| LEINSTER TAKE TOP

POINTS IN THE RDS

Leinster fans Zac Thomas from Castleknock and Thomas Early from Lucan

Noah O’Leary from Cabinteely. Picture: Cody Glenn/Sportsfile

Liam Reddan, James O’Dwyer, Joe Reddan, Matthew Fox and Shane O’Dea

A perfect start T

HESE young Leinster fans had plenty to cheer about as their team took maximum points in their European Rugby Champions Cup opener against Castres on Saturday.

The three-time European champions beat the French side 33-15 at the RDS. On Sunday, the Irish rugby world was in shock at the news of the tragic passing of Munster head coach

Jennifer Malone from Clane, Co Kildare

Anthony Foley. Leinster CEO Michael Dawson praised Foley as a “fierce competitor” on the pitch and a “gentleman away from the field”. He added: “The thoughts of everyone at Leinster Rugby are with Anthony Foley’s family on this very sad day. Munster and Irish Rugby have lost a great captain, leader, and one of the finest young coaches in the game.”

20 October 2016 GAZETTE 11

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 20 October 2016

DUBLINBUSINESS

Osborne marks 20 years of driving recruitment DUBLIN-BASED Osborne, one of Ireland’s leading recruitment consultancies, celebrates 20 years in business and two decades as one of the country’s foremost recruitment consultancies.

To mark the milestone, Osborne held an employer conference at The Marker Hotel.

Presented by Osborne chief executive and owner, Shona Mc Manus, guest speakers included footballing legend and former Republic of Ireland soccer manager Brian Kerr; and leading psychologist and author, Dr Maureen Gaffney.

The conference

INNOVATIONS | FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR THINKTECH

Using tech to drive a positive social impact  EMMA NOLAN

Brian Kerr, author and psychologist Dr Maureen Gaffney and Osborne chief executive, Shona Mc Manus

focused on developing talent and high-performance teams, employee engagement and wellbeing and establishing

FIVE companies located in the capital have been shortlisted for Thinktech – a €1 million project to develop ideas for a better Ireland, with social innovation and a community focus at its heart. The five finalists are ...

Change X team ChangeX - an online database for proven social innovation projects, providing projects the mechanism to scale and maximise their impact while also providing local solutions that are proven to work for communities who want them.

an effective corporate culture. Osborne has also recently launched a new website; see www. osborne.ie.

Niamh O’Reilly

Marianne Chekley AONTAS/ An Cosan Virtual College Community (VCC) - a

iScoil - an online learning community that offers

social enterprise set up to scale the work of An Cosan,

an alternative path to learning, accreditation

a community education centre that has served the

and progression for young people.

community of Tallaght West for over 30 years.

MANAGEMENT | STAFF DEVELOPMENT

Success is a cert for Windsor Motor Group AS PART of its ongoing investment in all employees, Windsor Motor Group has presented eight employees with a QQI Level 6 Management Development Certificate after completing a specifically designed programme.

Delivered by Dublin firm Optimum and supported by Skillnets, the highimpact programme was specifically tailored to the retail motor industry, and focused on developing the skills that lead to successful teams and business management.

It enabled the aftersales employees to develop their skills in fostering an environment for innovation and continuous improvement – two of the key components in driving the Windsor

Motor Group’s success, to date.

Modules in the programme included communication, self-management, organisational skills, managing teams for high performance, leadership, legislation and strategic planning.

Pictured are Mark Morrison and James Browne, Windsor Airside Nissan; Padraig Foran, Windsor Belgard Nissan; Carl Miller, Windsor Raheny Nissan; Robbie O’Neill, Windsor Motor Group; Garry Hobson, chief executive, Windsor Motor Group; Alan Buckley, Windsor Liffey Valley Opel; Daniel Davies, Windsor Deansgrange Nissan; Brenda Byrne, Windsor Clonee Nissan, and Derek Flynn, Windsor Dundrum Nissan.

Peter Mangan Kate Morris The Freebird Club – operates as a peer-to-peer Student Volunteer - an online resource that aims to

homestay club, offering a new way of travelling

become the one-stop shop for matching students with

for older adults, a new source of income and a

volunteering opportunities.

unique way to promote companionship.

The finalists will take part in a development programme devised by Social Innovation Fund Ireland, and supported

by Google.org and the

Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government.

The overall award recipients will be announced in Decem-

ber at a special awards ceremony at Google’s EMEA HQ in Dublin.

The initiative is a collaboration between Social Innovation Fund

Ireland and Google.org, the philanthropic arm of Google which invests in teams with bold ideas that create a lasting global impact.

20 October 2016 GAZETTE 13

ASDFSDAF P27 STYLE P22

FOOD & DRINK P21

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

have a fangtastic time at the Bram Stoker Festival

 IAN BEGLEY

GET ready to celebrate Dublin’s darker side this October Bank Holiday weekend as Bram Stoker Festival, October 28 to 31, returns with four days of living stories and four nights of deadly events.

By day, the Bram Stoker Festival programme presents gothic intrigue at family-friendly events, talks and interactive experiences.

At night, the city will embrace the darkness as a host of venues deliver deadly adventures for festival goers in search of macabre thrills and late-night parties.

The festival programme includes theatre, spectacle, visual arts and music in haunting locations across the city celebrating Dublin’s gothic and supernatural traditions, the city itself and gothic architecture, and links

to Samhain festival.

Thrill-seekers are invited to Glasnevin’s Botanic Gardens for Nightmare Plants (Fri 28), an immersive performance and after-dark experience like no other seen this year; master-storytellers and creators of stunning, brilliant chaos, and big, bold, visual spectacles.

Macnas – Spectacle and Street Performance Company, will summon spirits and awaken the ghosts with Sleep No More (Mon 31), a new parade like no other on Henry St and Moore St; Bleedin’ Deadly (Oct 28 – 31) in the atmospheric Pillar Room of the Rotunda Hospital is a raucous celebration of a time when the Freak Show dominated in all its shocking glory.

The culturally curious will enjoy Dracula Live (Sat 29) at National Concert Hall which sees leading Irish musicians

David Meyler, Daniel Moran, Lexie and Lily Barry behind the walls of a North Great Georges Street gothic pile to launch the programme for Bram Stoker Festival 2016. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/ Photocall Ireland

Matthew Nolan and Sean MacErlaine perform a specially created deathly new score for Todd Browning’s 1931 classic movie Dracula.

Horror Expo (Sun 30) in the stunning surroundings of Freemasons Grand

Lodge will deliver a one of a kind event which promises to please the most ardent of horror fans.

There’s lots of fun for families too. Stokerland (Oct 29 & 30) will see St Patrick’s Park transform into a pop-up gothic fun

park with the macabre talents of world class street-performers alongside rides and attractions to ensure a fangtastic time for all.

The magnificent Marsh’s Library plays host to Tales From the Shadows: Gothic Tales (Sat 29), a beautiful shadow puppet show with devious devils, vengeful vampires, gloating goblins and sorrowful spectres to name but a few.

While spooktacular events for kids at The Ark in Temple Bar include The Bram Jam (Oct 30 & 31), Dracula’s Spooky Underground Sound Lab (Sun 30)and Dracula’s Disco (Mon 31) where Dracula’s very own DJ Will Softly will be spinning the decks and scratching vinyl at an energetic set for young zombies, ghosts and musicloving monsters.

For events information and tickets sink your teeth into www.bramstokerfestival.com



GAZETTE

DIARY P14

SIMPSON IS A DELIGHT THE Gazette has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs.

Our dog of the week is Simpson, a five-year-old male Labrador crossbreed who has been at Dogs Trust for some time now, and really, really wants his new home!

He is one of the brightest dogs in the rehoming centre, and is looking for an adult-only home with patient and loving adopters who will love and cherish him for the rest of his days.

Please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000.

They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found at www.dogstrust.ie.

The new Dogs Trust campaign - See Page 20

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14 GAZETTE 20 October 2016

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

Get ready because MoRunning is back DON a tash and dash for charity – MoRunning returns to Dublin this November!

Last year saw more than 1,000 runners from across Dublin and beyond donning fancy dress and digging deep to help raise awareness and funds for Movember. And it was such as success that MoRunning has announced it is back next month.

Hosted at the Phoenix Park on Saturday, November 5, MoRunning is calling on Dublin to rock everything and anything from a flamboyant facial hair to a wacky wig and get involved with its 2016 fun run.

With both 5k and 10k races on offer, and all ages and abilities welcome, participants will kick-start the race at 10:00am complete with moustaches, fancy dress and raise funds for the Movember Foundation.

Now in its eighth year, MoRunning has also announced Mr Motivator as its 2016 Ambassador, who will help to motivate thousands of runners across Dublin ahead of the runs.

CANCER SUPPORT CENTRE TOUR MEMBERS of the public will have the opportunity to take a tour of the longest-running community-based cancer

ning from 11am on Friday, October 21.

During the event the public can take a tour of Purple House and meet the centre’s staff, volunteers, counsellors and therapists.

All are welcome to join Purple House for a tea or coffee and learn more about the cancer support services on offer.

A dedicated website – cancerweek.ie – has been set up to allow everyone to upload and promote their event to a wide audience.

GETTING OUR KIDS FIGHTING FIT

Mr Motivator will help to motivate thousands of runners across Dublin

support centre in Ireland as part of a range of events taking place across the country for Cancer Week Ireland 2016 (October 17 - 23).

Purple House Cancer Support will give the public access to their centre in Aubrey Court, Parnell Road, Bray, in an Open Morning run-

NOW in its third year, Super Troopers with Laya Healthcare, is being rolled out to 197 Dublin schools with 43,547 Dublin students taking part.

For the coming school year 1,250 primary schools and almost 200,000 children will complete the enhanced Super Troopers health homework programme which aims to encourage more physical activity and healthy eating in children, parents and teachers.

Super Troopers encourages children and their families to have a positive attitude towards physical activity, wellbeing and nutrition and aims to change practical lifestyle habits to help children and families lead healthy lifestyles.

Visit www.supertroopers.ie for lots of ideas and tips on physical activity and wellbeing activities.

FESTIVAL A MUST FOR TECH LOVERS EUROPE’S biggest Start-Up/Tech Festival UPRISE is coming to Dublin’s RDS and will give tech lovers an opportunity to network.

Taking place on Thursday, October 20 from 9am to 6.30pm, the unique festival will host 150 crazy start-ups, 15 workshops, buskers, games, music, DJ’s, entertainment, jobs and much more.

Uprise also adds Irish buskers and food stalls to a relaxed environment of CEO’s and talent, helping to make new business ideas more approachable, investable and connected.

An epic start-up Pitch Battle will see six international start-ups pit their strengths against six Irish based start-ups, after local heats were held in Europe and the USA in earlier this year.

To a frenzy of audience questions, answers and reactions, the audience will decide which company wins (no judging panel required).

Dublin City Local Enterprise Office will award a prize fund of €5,000 to the winning entrepreneur.

Visit www.uprisefestival.co to book tickets.

20 October 2016 GAZETTE 15

20 October 2016 GAZETTE 17

DUBLINLIFE

DON’S DUBLIN A pigeon that has left its mark on the city for centuries

BY THE mid-1750s, entry to and from Dublin Bay was a hazardous operation and the city governors decided something drastic needed to be done to improve the situation.

And so, a plan was drawn up to construct a wall into the bay that would stop the silting up of channels, and provide a safe place for passengers to board. This work to build the Great South Wall took over 30 years and was complete in 1795 with safer passage for travellers and an improvement in trade.

During the lengthy construction, John Pidgeon was the caretaker of the storehouse for the equipment used during the building, and he began selling refreshments to travellers, who often waited for days until the weather improved to travel. As a smart businessman, he also offered trips around the long wall, which was one of the longest in the world when completed.

Business improved, and Pidgeon (the ‘d’ in his name was dropped a long time ago) built a small hotel to

THE BIG INTERVIEW

SHANE ON THE BUS STRIKES, TRAINS, RIO, ABORTION & BUDGET

Minister Ross out for a constitutional in his constituency with fellow Independents – councillors Seamas O’Neill, Deirdre Donnelly and Kevin Daly

EXCLUSIVE

MINISTER SHANE ROSS ON THE BIG TOPICS

cater for the needs of the growing number of travel-

MINISTER for Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Shane Ross has a particularly busy portfolio, which keeps him constantly moving across the city and country.

However, EMMA NOLAN was able

lers. In 1793, years after John Pidgeon had died, a new building was erected and operated for many years.

This building still stands, and lies in the shadow of the twin towers of the Poolbeg Power Station. Not long afterwards, with the whiff of revolution in the air (and the 1798 Rebellion a recent memory), a fort was

to shadow Minister Ross one day last week as he went about his official business, during which he gave her his unique insider views on a range of the main issues affecting the city and the country ...

Sharing a cuppa, an ear and a word with a constituent

constructed near the hotel. It became known as ‘the Pigeon House Fort’. Today, the canon guns outside the entrance to the ESB power station were originally facing out to sea anticipating a possible French invasion that never came.

The place also made its literary mark on a young James Joyce. In his first great work, Dubliners, he tells of two boys playing truant (no doubt he was one of them) as they went to the exotic building and the long wall that stretched, seemingly forever into the bay, in his short story, An Encounter.

“We arranged to go along the Wharf Road until we came to the ships, then to cross in the ferryboat and walk out to see the Pigeon House.”

Don Cameron

www.donsdublin.wordpress.com

Pigeon House – a legacy of the canny business that grew up around the city’s Great South Wall

GAZETTE

GAZETTE

16 GAZETTE 20 October 2016

On those Dublin Bus strikes ...

“I wasn’t involved – that was the point.”

Minister Ross defended his lack of involvement in the strikes which saw widespread disruption in the city for a number of days in September.

The Dublin-Rathdown TD said that he was “firm in [his] resolve” and would not have backed down, even if the strikes had continued until Christmas.

Minister Ross said that he wasn’t prepared to fund Dublin Bus management at the expense of the taxpayer – especially with the possibility of further potential strikes from Bus Eireann and Irish Rail.

He said that when he made it clear he wasn’t going to just sign a cheque, that this comment wasn’t intended for

the workers.

“T he people who annoyed me most were the Dublin Bus management – not the workers or the unions.

“It was important that when the management went into negotiations that they got the message that they were on

every day, criticising us. “[Deputy] Richard Boyd Barrett (PBP), who is a friend of mine, was outside my office with a huge sign that said: ‘Where is the Minister?’, but I thought that was quite funny, actually!”

However, Minister Ross said that the widespread

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

‘The Minister said that he was “firm in [his] resolve” and would not have backed down, even if the bus strikes had continued until Christmas’ --------------------------------------------------------

their own, and that the Department wasn’t just behind them waiting to sign a cheque.

“It worked – we weren’t going to sign a cheque for them, and it was difficult not to, because we could have done it and both sides were annoying us

criticism didn’t bother him, and he is satisfied that he set a precedent for future industrial action in the transport sector.

What did cause problems, though, was the bus lane issue, which Minister Ross says he wanted to keep open for use by

drivers, but he was prevented from doing so by the Road Safety Authority who ruled that it was “too dangerous”.

On Budget 2017 ...

This was the first budget that Minister Ross had much involvement in at Cabinet level – an experience which he described as “a very interesting time”.

“It was my first time involved at that level, and I think that was marked down as being a point of difficulty, but we came to an agreement and the Government worked well on the budget, actually.”

Minister Ross said that he feels his Independent Alliance “got a lot into the Budget,” and cites the old age pension bonus as a particular success that

Minister for Sport Shane Ross hoists the mighty Sam Maguire trophy aloft during a visit to Stillorgan Shopping

Metro Nor th and Dart Underground to be completed until around 2025. “They’re being planned, but the funds aren’t there yet.”

Centre as part of its 50th birthday celebrations Pictures: Peter Cavanagh

they brought to the table.

On parts of the Budget he was not happy with, Minister Ross said that he was annoyed with pension payments being delayed.

“I would have liked to have given a bit more away in other areas, but we couldn’t do it – it was very thinly spread.

We only had about €800 million, which seems like a lot – but it’s not – to spread around the different interest groups.

“So yes, I was unhappy we couldn’t do more, but I hope we can do more next year. It all depends

on Brexit now, that could knock us for six.”

On Brexit, he added: “things could really kick off”, and said: “It’ll affect our exports, and tourism could go down because of exchange rates. We’re in a precarious position.”

On repealing the Eighth Amendment ...

Minister Ross is personally in favour of repealing it, and wants there to be a free vote on the matter in the Dail.

“There should be a free vote on it,” he added, but stated that not all members of the Independent

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

‘[Enda Kenny and I] didn’t really see eye to eye, but now we have conversations. We have to talk and reach agreements, but we don’t have to go for a pint together or anything like that.’

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

Alliance are in favour of repealing it.

“I’m in favour of repeal – absolutely, as is Finian McGrath and John Halligan.” However, the two rural TDs in the IA Cabinet, Kevin “Boxer” Moran and Sean Canney, are against such a move.

“Our view has always been that it is a matter of conscience and up to the

individual – we’re going to have to sort out our differences at some stage.”

On Dublin’s key transport projects ...

Minister Ross said that the Luas Cross City line will be completed next year. “It’s on target and it’s within budget,” he said, insisting that it will be up and running by next

Autumn. “I don’t think there will be any delay on it, it’s been on target the whole time, so there’s no reason why it should be.”

He said that the Luas Cross City will be “a bit of a monument to transport in this country”, once completed.

However, he confirmed that we can’t expect other major projects such as

On the Rio Olympics and Pat Hickey ...

The minister, who also has Sport on his portfolio, says that the Olympics was “quite the event”.

“We were meant to be going over to encourage the athletes and to be there as a presence and show support from the Government, and it was overshadowed by Pat Hickey. We were meant to be there for a fortnight and we came back after three days. It was very dramatic.”

Minister Ross said that he has not spoken to Pat Hickey since Rio, adding: “We didn’t get on very well!” But he admitted that he feels sorry for the

former president of the Olympic Council of Ireland.

“He’s only available on the phone anyway. I do feel terrible for him, stuck over there – he could be there for another 18 months or more. “On a personal level, we didn’t get on at all, but he’s not a young man; he’s stuck out there without his family.

It’s tough for him.”

On his relationship with Enda Kenny ...

“Relationships between the different people in government are actually rather good at the moment,” Minister Ross revealed, after a “catastrophic” first few months.

“There’s no point in trying to pretend otherwise, they [the first few months of the new government this year] were incredible – we were working on completely different

agendas.

“We [the IA] believe that we should have a free vote [in the Dail], and Fine Gael had never heard of free votes, so it was very difficult.”

Minister Ross said that he and An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, are now beginning to understand each other.

“The relationships have improved – they were bad – Enda and I didn’t even have conversations. It was almost impossible; we didn’t really see eye to eye, but now we have conversations.

“We have to talk and reach agreements, but we don’t have to go for a pint together or anything like that, but the relationships are getting better.

“We’re getting on quite well now – as partners in government, we’re beginning to work better together.”

18 GAZETTE 20 October 2016

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN Spooktacular Gazette contest THE Gazette’s Halloween reader pix competition is up and running and we have some fire-cracking prizes to give away over the next five weeks.

This week’s winners are the Egans from Blanchardstown, who sent us this cuter than cute pic of their little girls Alisha and Ayla (left) and another of their fangtastically ghostly garden.

The adorable Disney princesses win a Swizzels Halloween Hamper choc-abloc with bewitching treats. A special

DUE to phenomenal public demand, Russia’s Ice Vision have announced extra dates for both Alice In Wonderland and the eagerly awaited Dracula On Ice, The Story Of Eternal Love at the National Show Centre in Swords next month.

And to celebrate the extra dates, The Gazette has THREE family passes to give away for BOTH spectacular productions.

To win a special day out for your family, all you have to do is visit The Gazette’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/DublinGazetteNewspapers, Like and Share our Ice Vision competition post and write which of the two shows you’d prefer to see in the Comments section.

So if you’d like to win four tickets to see Alice in Wonderland on November 24, just write “Alice” in the comments section, or if you’d prefer tickets to see Dracula on Ice the

mention also goes out to Oisin Murphy, who sent in a lovely photo (below) of his dog Coco, sitting next to the pumpkin he grew and carved himself.

Keep those spooktacular snaps coming in folks – we have great prizes for the best decorated Halloween garden, and we’ll have more for the best – and worst – dressed trick-or-treaters.

Just email competitions@dublingazette.com or upload your pix to our Facebook page. Happy snapping!

GET YOUR SKATES ON

following day, just write “Dracula”.

Featuring top professional Russian skaters, the unique productions are sure to thrill audiences of both children and adults.

The beloved tale of Alice in Wonderland is transformed in a new and amazing spectacle for all the family.

Musical numbers in union with the art of dance on ice creates an unforgettable impression and enchanting show, permeating the soul of audiences of all ages.

The performance takes place on large-scale video scenery that plunge the viewer into the picture so spectators can experience the effect of following Alice through the rabbit hole.

Dracula On Ice retells Bram Alice in Wonderland Stoker’s classic novel featuring

Jonathan Harker, his beloved Mina, young Lucy, courageous and brave Van Helsing who devoted his life to fight dark forces; hungry and ruthless vampires and, of course, ominous Count Dracula.

Dracula On Ice includes acrobatic elements, air gymnastics, fire juggling and much more. Visitors will see large scale video-installations, exquisite costumes, interactive decorations, lighting and mirror balls incorporating the entire venue.

The mystical show features fog, red steam, flying vampires, fire on ice and extremely demanding ice skating elements: high support, death spirals, triple jumps – all complemented by charming music.

Visit www.mcaevents.ie for full details on the productions.

Dracula on Ice

Seeking talented BASE tour guides BASE Entertainment Centre want to let parents know about the fun things kids can do at the centre so they are recording a series of videos (to be posted on Facebook) to showcase their themed party rooms and activity areas.

They are seeking expert help from young people who can talk on camera about the fun that can be had at Base Enter tainment and show off the different rooms.

If there is a young person in your life who is a natural in front of camera, a comedian or just an all-round show-off, they want to hear from you.

To apply, please Facebook message them a clip of your child in action or email it to marketing@baseentertainment.ie To record the guided tour video clips on-site at Base, each competition winner will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

And at the end of it all, they will invite your superstar back to Base Entertainment with nine friends for a party on them valued at €250.

Entry deadline date Friday, November 4.

Swizzels launches spooky selection of sweet treats for Halloween Swizzels, has launched a variety of fun Halloween themed sweets that are perfect for Halloween sharing occasions, from ghoulish parties with friends and family to trick or treating.

20 October 2016 GAZETTE 19

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

Let’s talk TTIP/ CETA SO what’s this TTIP/ CETA business that’s causing so such much concern to so many people across the EU? TTIP and CETA are two transatlantic trade deals. CETA is the trade deal between the EU and Canada and is fully negotiated. TTIP is a trade deal between the US and the EU and negotiations are still underway. Under the Lisbon Treaty, Ireland handed over trade negotiating rights to the EU Commission.

TRANSPARENCY:

NOBODY can see the details of these negotiations. Whether you’re an MEP or a TD you can only read the details about the ongoing TTIP negotiations in special Reading Rooms in the European Parliament or Leinster House.

ISDS MECHANISMS:

The information that we do have on what is up for negotiation is deeply concerning.

PRIVATE COURTS:

UNDER both CETA and TTIP, there is a proposal for a mechanism called Investor State Dispute Settlement.

Its name has changed over the course of the negotiations to make it more palatable but effectively it is a private court system that puts multi-national corporations’ rights before citizens.

Multi-national corporations can and do sue governments for trying to pass laws that offer protection for citizens from harmful chemicals, laws that attempt to ban harmful products.

Corporations can even sue governments for passing laws that might cause these corporations to make a bit less money such as laws that raise the minimum wage.

THINK I’M JOKING? HERE ARE JUST A COUPLE OF EXAMPLES:

Following the nuclear disaster at Fukishima in Japan 2011, Germany decided that it wanted to end its use of nuclear energy, Vattenfall, the Swedish company operating two nuclear power plants in Germany decided to sue for €3.7 billion compensation.

Ah that’s an extreme example you say?

On the contrary, there are many examples of how insidious this investor dispute mechanism is.

In June 2012, French company

Veolia sued Egypt. One of Veolia’s claims was that Egypt’s decision to introduce a national minimum wage harmed Veolia’s investments.

In 2012 Ecuador was ordered to pay a petroleum company $1.77 billion in damages for terminating the oil giant’s contract when the company broke Ecuadorian law! That settlement amounted to the entire health budget for one year in Ecuador.

Theses ‘special courts’ are so bad that one of their judges is quoted as saying: “When I wake up at night and think about arbitration, it never ceases to amaze me that sovereign states have agreed to investment arbitration at all.”

Ireland is a small open economy that has traded with countries across the world including the US and Canada without the need for an Investor dispute settlement. Yet now, our Government under Fine Gael have, in fact become cheerleaders for these undemocratic courts.

In a letter to the EU Commission in 2014, then Minister for Trade and Enterprise, Richard Bruton actually endorsed their inclusion!

OTHER AREAS OF CONCERN: JOBS

THERE will be job losses or ‘job dislocation’.

The European Commission itself has said that TTIP is likely to bring “prolonged and substantial” dislocation to European workers, as companies will be encouraged to source goods and services from US states where standards are lower and trade union rights are non-existent.

HEALTH

THOSE in favour of TTIP and CETA constantly tell us to trust them that health and food regulations won’t drop, however, the evidence to date shows otherwise.

Let’s take the example of Endocrine Disrupters, chemicals that have been proven to harm health and which the World Health Organisation refer to as a global threat. The EU Commission had an explicit deadline of December 2013 to regulate these chemicals. In June 2013 the American Chamber

MEPs Matt Carthy and Lynn Boylan (above) and all four Sinn Féin MEPs, Matt Carthy, Liadh Ní Ríada, Lynn Boylan and Martin Anderson protesting about TTIP in the European Parliament (below). food. Ractopamine is banned in 160 countries including the EU 28 due to impacts on human health.

Concerned?

Thought so and I have only touched on some of the risks of these trade deals. It is not too late to act though.

Last week, the Seanad voted on a motion rejecting CETA. The message was clear – we don’t want CETA, just as we don’t want TTIP. But rejection by the Seanad is only a start. Both TTIP and CETA should be put to the people in a referendum. A referendum would put of Commerce met the EU Commis- faith before trade deal negotiations the decision on the future of our sion and requested that they wanted began with the US, giving a strong democracy in the hands of those the regulation of these chemicals indication that the EU is willing to that matter – the people. dropped. Lo and behold in July, the lower its food standards to accommoLET’S FIGHT TTIP & CETA EU Commission announced that they date these trade deals.

In the US and Canada, ractopa- Contact Minister for Trade would carry out an impact assessment of the regulation plans thereby delay- mine, a growth stimulant, is used as & Enterprise Mary Mitchell ing the process by a further two years. a veterinary drug that is injected in O’Connor and your government When it comes to food, history cattle, swine and turkeys. The stimu- TDs and insist that CETA and TTIP shows that trade agreements put food lant is injected before slaughter result- be brought before the people of safety at risk by harmonizing stand- ing in residue levels remaining in the Ireland to decide. ards and reducing regulations to the lowest common denominator. In the EU there is a strict farm to fork policy, this is not the case in the US or Canada.

Canadian and US regulations allow beef and chicken to be washed and Please feel free to processed with chlorinated water, a process that is banned in the EU. In contact me: 2013 the EU dropped its ban on beef rinsed in lactic acid as a sign of good

Got an issue for me or want to join Sinn Féin?

lynn.boylan@europarl.europa.eu

20 GAZETTE 20 October 2016

GAZETTE

DUBLINLIFE Rolling out the ‘yellow brick road’ to help rescue dogs

L AU N C H I N G t h e i r t h o u g h t p r o vo k i n g new campaign entitled There’s No Place Like Home, Dogs Trust hopes to highlight the plight of hundreds of rescue dogs currently in their care who need a new home.

As part of the init i a t i ve , t h e c h a r i t y have transformed their rehoming centre in Finglas with a “yellow brick road” and have released a short video, filmed almost entirely from a dog’s point of view.

The clip, which you can see by visiting The G a z e t t e ’s F a c e b o o k

page, shows one little pooch’s journey as she is rescued and makes her way along the “yellow brick road”, meeting the specialist carers who help her along the way.

Irish rock band Kodaline have kindly lent their support with the track “The One” which plays beautifully as we observe the beginning of a new friendship between “Dorothy” and the little dog.

Dogs Trust’s Suzie Carley said: “We believe there is the per fect home for every dog in our care, some of which have been overlooked

many times through no fault of their own since being rescued.

“One particular dog, Buddy (pictured below), has been overlooked 26,000 times since being rescued which is so hard to believe as he is such an incredible dog.

“We do our very best for each and every dog we save but really there is ‘No Place Like Home’ for these amazing dogs and it’s our mission to find their rainbow at the end of their yellow brick road, that they can call home.”

Home Tweet Home is a digital element of

FEATURE

the campaign from Dogs Trust, where the charity are asking dog lovers to go on to their website’s rehoming gallery, choose a dog and click on the Twitter icon beside the dog to share him/her with their friends to highlight them even further. It’s a ‘pay it forward’ for the dogs, so to speak.

The charity has also taken a stand at this y e a r s Id e a l Ho m e s exhibition at the RDS during the October bank holiday weekend, which they’ll transform into the Ideal Home for a dog.

Grace Toohey, from Ashbourne, dressed as Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz to help launch “There’s No Place Like Home,” a new campaign by Dogs Trust.

Picture: Fran Veale

20 October 2016 GAZETTE 21

l

GAZETTE

FOOD&DRINK

Bayin Tomato Salad

The new two-story restaurant features cream leather seating, a parquet floor, iroko wood and subtle accents of grey with bolts of red

Amazing sushi has arrived at the IFSC  EMMA NOLAN

DUBLIN sushi speciallists Michie have just opened a new restaurant at the IFSC. The Japanese eatery known for its fresh sushi opened first in Ranelagh in 2007 by proprietors Michel Piare and Anna van Exel.

It initially opened as a small takeaway but has since expanded and they now have four restaurant loca-

tions in Ranelagh, Dun Laoghaire, Sandyford and IFSC and two Sushi Bars in Avoca Rathcoole and Avoca K ilmacanougue.

The menu offers hand-rolled, quality sushi and fresh Japanese cuisine. The new menu for the IFSC has been expanded to include tempura, teppanyaki, and additional desserts.

Michie IFSC is located at Unit 3, Georges Dock, Dublin.

PEANUT oil isn’t used that often at home but it has many health benefits and a high smoke point, meaning it’s great for cooking with. It’s also good for drizzling over salads.

New Irish company Bayin has launched a range of oils including a peanut oil which is used in their recipe for tomato salad.

Ingredients l l l l l l l l

Two to three ripe tomatoes Two teaspoons Bayin Peanut oil One teaspoon fish sauce 1/2 red onion 1 garlic clove minced 1 lime (juice) Two tablespoons crushed peanuts bunch of coriander chopped

Method l Cut the tomatoes into slices and place in bowl. l In a jug mix the Bayin peanut oil, fish sauce, minced garlic and lime juice. Pour dressing over tomatoes. l Add crushed peanuts and chopped coriander and mix well.

Available in Supervalu and independent retailers nationwide. RRP €4.99

Stopping heartburn before it hits

Dr Ciara Kelly

OVER half of Irish adults suffer from heartburn – so National Heartburn Awareness week is back this month to highlight the condition.

Starting on October 24, the nation is being advised to be mindful of the condition and its lifestyle effects, and to seek more information from a pharmacist if suffering regularly with heartburn symptoms.

With one in three Irish people suffering from heartburn more

than once a week, Dr Ciara Kelly is encouraging people to consult with their local pharmacist on how best to manage the ailment, reminding us that heartburn is something easily treated.

The pharmacist should be the first choice for advice, as many heartburn cases can be solved over the counter without a visit to the GP required.

In addition to speaking with phar-

macists, Dr Kelly advises those suffering with heartburn symptoms to: Keep a food diary and listen to your body. Pay heed to what causes your heartburn to flare up, monitor and avoid these foods. l Don’t eat late at night before you’re about to go to bed, having a full stomach before you lie down will increase acid backflow and put pressure on digestion. l Avoid spicy foods that effect

your stomach balance, especially anything with lots of chilli. l Consciously add acid neutralising foods to the diet, such as almond milk, bananas, ginger, porridge. l Keep your alcohol intake within recommended limits (17 units for a man, 11 units for a woman per week, or less!) l Reduce your tea and coffee intake, again especially before you go to bed.

GAZETTE

22 GAZETTE 20 October 2016

DUBLINLIFE

Massimo Dutti Bomber €129; Finders Keepers Harvey Nichols Dress €160; House of Fraser Bagpack €40; River Island Shoes €65

(Left:) Harvey Nichols DKNY blue jumper €420; LK Bennett Dress €795; River Island Boots €100; (Right:) House of Fraser Therapy Coat €220; BT2 DVF shirt dress €467; French Connection Boots €139; Accessorize Pop pom scarf €45.90

Gray and Willow House of Fraser Faux fur coat €219; River Island Top €55; Philip Lim BT2 Skirt €760; M&S Boots €82

Three Floor Dress €395; Accessorise Clutch €65; River Island Shoes €65

Turn over a new leaf in Dundrum Town Centre’s Autumn/Winter styles delight  EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

Acne BT2 Coat €950; Sandro BT2 Jumper €245; Selected Skirt €69.95; LK Bennett Trainers €200

(Left:) Biba House of Fraser Faux fur coat €229; DVF BT2 Polo neck €308; Karen Millen Skirt €160; (Right:) Alice & Olivia Harvey Nichols Dress €402; Accessorise Stole €37.90

DUNDRUM Town Centre has unveiled its Autumn/Winter 2016 ladies wear collections, showcasing some of this season’s popular trends available in the centre, from luxury to high-end brands.

Curated by stylist Corina Gaffey, the presentation offers a look at what’s available in the 1,000 fashion brands found in the centre.

Key trends of the colourful season include Shades of Pale: soft pinks, camels, creams; Renais-

sance: Victorian influences, frills and embroidery; Winter boho: maxi dresses, faux fur and chunky boots, and Tinsel: Sequins, metallics and velvet.

Speaking at the shoot, Corina said: “Dundrum Town Centre is a stylist’s dream, and after pulling this collection together, I’m even more excited for the winter months ahead.”

20 October 2016 GAZETTE 23

Pinko Harvey Nichols Military Jacket €678 and Dress €621

GAZETTE

STYLE

Nail the right make-up for winter with these nourishing products  EMMA NOLAN

AS THE winter chill creeps into the air, choosing products with nourishing properties becomes all the more important.

This season, make sure your skin, lips and nails are ready to brace the winter months with cold weather essentials. Available in Penneys stores and pharmacies nationwide, Catrice has a range of inexpensive winter products to keep chapped lips and dry skin at bay ...

(Left:) Sandro BT2 Coat €650; Therapy House of Fraser Polo neck €65; Acne BT2 Skirt €350; M&S Boots €82; (Right:) Pinko Harvey Nichols Coat €815 and Dress €413; Dune Stole €45; Therapy House of Fraser Bag €55; Office Shoes €77

Catrice Prime & Fine Beautifying Primer €4.95 KEEP make-up in place without drying out the skin with a nurturing primer. The product contains nourishing Vitamin E and light-reflecting pearl pigments that create a natural glow and soft shimmer on your skin while delivering long-lasting staying power for your make-up.

Catrice Iron Strength Nail Hardener €3.50 A NEW arrival for Autumn/Winter, the Iron Strength Nail Hardener forms a protective barrier on the surface of the nails to make them more resistant. For best results, apply twice weekly to clean nails.

Pinko Harvey Nichols Military Coat €815 and Dress €413

Catrice Vitamin Lip Treatment €3.95 GIVE lips a vitamin boost with the Vitamin Lip Treatment from Catrice. Available in three shades, this lipgloss is enriched with Vitamin E and Q10, designed to pamper lips with their regenerative properties. The lipgloss also offers a fruity fragrance and beautifully shiny finish.

Catrice Volumizing Lip Booster €3.95 FORMULATED with jojoba and almond oil, the Catrice Volumizing Lip Booster is a great all-round product.

While helping to hide fine lines, the ingredients – including menthol – naturally plump up the lip, adding lusciousness with a rose finish while the oils soothe and nourish lips.

(Left:) Pinko Harvey Nichols Coat €413; River Island Dress €60; French Connection Boots €139; (Right:) River Island Jumper €45; Linea House of Fraser Skirt €89; River Island Boots €100

Catrice Wellnails Regenerating Care Pen €3.95 FOR fast and effective nail and cuticle care, look no further than the newWellnails Regenerating Care Pen. Enriched with caring ingredients such as olive and jojoba oil, shea butter, aloe vera, Vitamin E and bamboo extract, this pen provides targeted nourishment for dry and stressed nails and cuticles.

GAZETTE

24 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 October 2016

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA ReelReviews

INFERNO

It’s flaming awful TOM Hanks takes the money and runs, thanks to the hellishly bad Inferno (Cert 12A, 121 mins), the latest film based on Dan Brown’s clever-clever books. This time round, the globe-trotting academic is in a race against time to stop a plague wiping out half the world before you can shout: “Dante do it!”

Any ‘Da Vinci Code’ and Tom Hanks fans may enjoy this, but everybody else ...

While the first film was a little different for the action genre, ‘Jack Reacher 2’ is a more conventional affair, and subsequently a much less interesting sequel

JACK REACHER - NEVER GO BACK: THIS MEDIOCRE SEQUEL IS A BIT OF A REACH

Passes by on Cruise control TOM Cruise returns to break limbs and bust heads as the world’s best-looking vagrant in Jack Reacher: Never Go Back (Cert 12A, 118 mins).

Thanks to Christopher McQuarrie’s lean direction and Cruise’s undeniable magnetism, 2012’s original Reacher film was a surprisingly witty, straight-shooting action thriller with few pretensions.

Never Go Back carries over much of the hardboiled, gritty action of the original, with each punch delivered with a signature Cruise wink and smile.

Unfortunately, not even the superstar’s charm can save this sequel from the realms of mediocrity.

Attempting to layer a little emotional depth

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

into the mix, Never Go Back overcomplicates and omits that which allowed Jack Reacher to lift its head above other average, contemporary action movies.

Based on the bestselling books by Lee Child, the film starts four years after the first film.

An ex-army investigator, Reacher has been awarded every military honour there is; in fact, he’s so good, “they ran out of medals to give him”.

Our introduction to Reacher in the first film was a shameless delight:

he’s the kind of guy you don’t go looking for – “he finds you”.

Stripped of this initial charm, Never Go Back fails to deliver on the introductory excitement of the original and lacks an instigating narrative punch. We’re not so much dropped into the action here, as slowly, laboriously eased into it.

Having continued his vagrant lifestyle, moving from state to state, Reacher decides to meet up with Major Susan Turner (Cobie Smulders) – an army officer at his old military unit who’s helped him to solve cases across the country.

When he discovers that she’s been accused of treason, he sets out to prove her innocence, naturally unearthing the odd government conspiracy along the way.

The original’s most glaring fault was its alpha-male oriented narrative. This time around, that’s balanced out by the inclusion of Major Turner; a female co-lead just as fiercely capable in combat as Reacher.

This is certainly a step up from the damsel in distress dynamic of the original.

As a sequel, then, Never Go Back attempts to compensate for the originals’ o v e r whelmi n g machismo with a

few depthless dialogues on gender roles, particularly within the military.

While this is a commendable effort, the theme is underdeveloped and ultimately proves a shallow attempt at progression. Further attempts to develop Reacher as a character are made with a subplot centring on his possible daughter, Samantha (Danika Yarosh).

While watching Reacher struggle with responsibility and manners has a certain charm, this attempt at injecting some human emotion is a relatively drab affair, and slows the narrative down to a torpid pace around the halfway

mark.

Of course, the action here is again expertly choreographed, maintaining a grounded realism; every punch is well and truly felt. The poorly developed plot, however, only really serves to tenuously link these action segments together.

The only real compelling mystery here is how Cruise manages to disguise himself snugly in the uniform of a man twice his size.

U l t i m a t e l y, J a c k Reacher: Never Go Back is a lifeless, mediocre retread of the original. Even the biggest action fans will find this one distinctly lacking in thrills.

There’s strong support from Cobie Smulders as Major Turner. However, the strong female lead doesn’t change the fact that this film is still very much an adventure for the boys.

DON’T BREATHE

House about a twist?

FOR most of this film you’re never quite sure who to root for, as Don’t Breathe (Cert 16, 88 mins) ratchets up the tension when three teens decide to rob a blind man in his decrepit house.

The wrong blind man, it turns out, as he’s anything but helpless, in this tensionfilled film that soon turns the tables on the young hoods. Shot and edited with skill, it’s a daft but deftly delivered tale.

GIRL WITH THE GIFTS Presents a decent film

TO USE its full title, The Girl With All The Gifts (Cert 15A, 111 mins) staggers into the zombie genre with something a little different.

Glenn Close leads an evershrinking group of survivors in a near future world that’s been devastated by, in effect, a zombie plague – with one young infected girl the potential key to a cure. It’s an interesting film, bringing a little brains to the zombie genre.

20 October 2016 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

TECH WeeBytes

Would-be Cockney geezer types can have a go at criminal capers, with VR successfully planting you in the seat of a getaway van

SONY PLAYSTATION VR HITS THE STREETS

Major move to get in on totally new consumer sector

Whether climbing through dusty desert tombs or gunning through abandoned Soviet strongholds, Lara Croft’s latest game delivers a worthy addition to the Tomb Raider series. Screengrabs: Shane Dillon

TOMB RAIDER | FROZEN SETTING HELPS TO CREATE A COOL GAME

LARA-KING ABOUT IN SIBERIA YOU know what they say about the best laid plans of mice and men and tech/games editors …

I had a piece on virtual reality (VR) in the bag, but a last minute change of plans involving an upcoming extensive look at Sony’s new PlayStation VR headset (see preview, right) meant substituting another player onto the pitch – this review of Rise of the Tomb Raider

(PlayStation 4, Cert 18, c. €60).

Eagle-eyed and sharpwitted Gazette readers will recall that this isn’t Lara Croft’s first outing with this game in the Gazette, as she and it previously graced our pages just over a year ago.

However, following her year-long sojourn on Microsoft’s impressive XBox One console, that timed exclusivity has now expired, setting Ms Croft (right) free on the PS4.

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com

Not only that, but she’s packed all kinds of extra goodies into her satchel, bringing with her all of the extra downloadable content, additional features and bonus items released on the XBO platform over the past year, creating an ultimate package.

As before, the very successful reboot of what had become a tired, stale franchise sees a young Lara choosing to set off on her first proper adventure, with snowbound Siberia playing host to much of her adventure as she chases a McGuffin extraneous plot device, pitting her against Trinity – a group of religious fanatics try-

ing to complete a mission started centuries earlier.

Lara runs, climbs, jumps and swims her way through one icy locale after another, constantly on the look-out for loot and items to gradually upgrade her abilities and weapons alike, such that it isn’t too long before she’s more like Rambo Croft, laying waste to the local wildlife and not-so-local bad guys with aplomb.

It’s a very pretty game; not quite up there with Uncharted 4 – then again, what is – but it’s quite a looker in its own right, packed once again with the same gradual unlocking of skills and character/weapon upgrading which made her precious adventure so enjoyable.

However, it’s the extra content that really puts the icing on this particular frosted cake, with a more than generous amount of features and extra story

beats bolted on to create a subtly different game than before.

While these extra features don’t change the core essence of the game, having them all in one neat package elevates it substantially above the XBO original release, helping to validate a return to the game.

In extra content, completionists will enjoy nosing around t h e somew h a t dilapidated Croft manor, while a de rigeur zombie mode, of sorts, further ups the ante for Lara’s action credentials as she zips about the family home-

stead, gunning down hordes of the undead.

Not terribly ladylike behaviour, perhaps, but worthy of the Croft adventurer name.

With its great mix of frantic action and quieter moments, a nicely scripted and believable Lara Croft (courtesy of Rihanna Pratchett’s, daughter of Terry, input as lead writer), great graphics and its comprehensive set of extra material, Lara’s latest has raised the bar yet again for the reinvigorated series.

I POPPED over to a pop-up unit (below) at Dame Lane last week, where Sony were giving punters a hands-on (or should I say, heads-on) look at the PlayStation VR (virtual reality) headset as it hit the retail market.

The newly launched PS VR marks Sony’s entry into the burgeoning consumer VR market, which has finally become a tangible, physical reality after decades of delayed promise.

I trialled a number of games and visual demos, and while the results were varying, the VR experience just worked, and worked well.

Whether riding shotgun in a Cockney crime caper (top), looking all around as I flew a fighter through a debris-littered asteroid field, or ignoring my instinctive desire to grip the bars in a dive cage being attacked by a hungry shark, the PS VR, and unit, worked as well as I’d hoped.

With the headset adjusting the image in time with my head movements as I looked about in 360 degrees, I didn’t notice any lag, or delay, in display or input reactions, and the tech was fine to wear and use.

As with all early tech, it ain’t cheap – it’s still something of a rich man’s toy, running from €400 to €800, depending on whether you need the base PS4 as well.

Still, dedicated gamers and media users are likely to lap it up, with a good year of development ahead sure to grow up some great titles and experiences as developers, and content creators, get to grips with its capabilities. Look out for my more in-depth exploration of the PS VR, and VR in general, soon – it’s virtually assured to go ahead ...

HACK YOUR WAY TO A €5,000 CASH PRIZE

ESB event looking to create energy-efficient solutions CALLING all hackers – ESB is on the hunt for the best and brightest minds in the country to take part in Ireland’s first ever “hackathon”.

The Big Eneregy Hack is bringing great minds together for over 48 hours to disrupt, invent and innovate, with the aim of developing solutions for a low-carbon future. Taking place from October 21 to 23 in Dogpatch Labs at Customs House Quay, organisers are on the look out for 150 of the best and brightest minds in Ireland.

They are looking for hackers from a diverse range of fields, including IT, innovation, marketing, design, finance and entrepreneurship, to help unearth Smart ideas that could help lower carbon emissions and combat climate change through such initiatives as Smarter energy efficiency in the home, enhancing the eCar experience, and optimising the electricity network.

Participants will be tasked with three energy-focused challenges, with cash prizes of €5,000, €3,000 and €2,000 for the most innovative ideas.

Hackers with the top ground-breaking creations and concepts will also have the opportunity to bring their ideas to the next level at ESB’s innovation hub, X_Site.

Spaces are limited, so would-be hackers and winners should register today at bigenergyhack.ie.

26 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 October 2016

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GAZETTE

28 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 October 2016

SPORT

FastSport WESLEY TO HOST CONCUSSION SEMINAR: LEINSTER Rugby, in conjunction with the IRFU, will be hosting a series of concussion awareness workshops throughout the coming weeks.

All club and school coaches, players, parents and officials are encouraged to attend the workshops which are free of charge.

Shane Mooney, the IRFU’s First Aid and Injury Prevention coordinator, hosts all of the workshops which include modules relating to concussion recognition, initial management and return to play protocols followed by a question and answer session.

The content has been designed to educate coaches, parents, players and referees on the dangers of concussion and how to recognise it.

Old Wesley will host one of the nights on November 30 at 7pm while Ashbourne RFC hosts another one on November 16 at 7.30pm.

BOXING: WEST DUBLIN CLUB HOST BIGGEST WOMEN’S EVENT IN EUROPE

Esker BC hail best ever Cup  KARL GRAHAM

sport@dublingazette.com

ESKER Celtic Boxing Club enjoyed yet another hugely successful All Female Box Cup last week with 340 boxers from Ireland, Poland, Canada, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom registered to take part at Lucan CBS Sports Hall.

It makes the tournament the biggest femaleonly event in Europe and club secretary Ed Griffin told GazetteSport it was another triumph for the club.

“It was brilliant,” he said. “The best one we’ve ever had because there were two international rings in operation. Every county in Ireland was represented and we have

The crowds flocked to Lucan CBS

already had inquiries from a team in South America and a team in Los Angeles about coming next year.

“We had girls that have boxed twice at the World Championships for the seniors, European medallists and Irish medallists as well as three Canadian champions and a Swedish champion.”

The tournament started four years ago and the rise in stature it has received in such a short space of time has been remarkable.

“It is the biggest event in Europe but a guy who was over from Canada asked if it was the biggest in the world because he had never been at an event before where there

Winners in various categories, above, and a Dutch boxer, below, receives advice

were just all females boxing at it.

“We started it up four years ago because there was no outlet for female boxing in Dublin whatsoever. You have to rely on Leinster and then go further afield. We set it up just for our own girls initially but then said we might as well grow it because it is a great for the profile of the club,” said Griffin.

On a personal note for the club, there was success for both of their

fighters competing.

Rebecca Toohey defeated her English opponent to win gold with Shannon Kelly also taking home a gold medal for Esker.

Over 1,000 spectators turned up to produce a fantastic atmosphere and Griffin believes that the vast amount of support they have obtained has been invaluable.

“We couldn’t have done it without South Dublin County Council, IPB Insurance, and Failte Ireland, as well as all our

other sponsors. I would also like to thank Mick Kelly, Eileen Toohey and Paschal Joyce, and everybody else who helps us out.”

Despite this success for the club, they still have no permanent facilities to box out of but they are working closely with the council to remedy the situation as soon as possible so they can concentrate on taking their tournament – and their other training groups – to even loftier heights.

Railway men fluff their lines in EY Hockey League  sport@dublingazette.com

Railway Union’s Mark English tackles Cork C of I’s Alex Burns. Picture: Adrian Boehm

RAILWAY Union’s men’s and women’s hockey teams had wildly contrasting fortunes as the former fell 6-2 to Cork C of I in the EY Hockey League while the women advance with a massive 7-0 Irish Senior Cup win over reigning champions Ulster Elks.

For the men, the Sandymount side had opened brightly forcing two short corners without success as they welcomed back Mark English, Kenny Carroll and Fergal Keaveney.

But the in-form Cork outfit

soon got on top with Stephen Sweetnam banging home a corner shot.

One became two in the second quarter from turnover ball with Stephen Parker slapping into the roof of the net. C of I were beginning to dominate in midfield and their pressure led to a penalty stroke, given for a deliberate back-stick in the circle, which Olympian John Jermyn put away.

Railway did get one back with their first meaningful attack of the second quarter with English scoring a low drag-flick into the

corner for 3-1 at the break. They got further into the tie in the third quarter with Richard Forrest’s left post shot going across the face of goal before English scored again from a corner.

But a second goal each from Jermyn and Sweetnam stretched out a 5-2 lead. Jermyn was subsequently given his marching orders for a second yellow card.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, C of I continued to aggressively pounce on Railway loose ball, Julian Dale scoring on 66 minutes to complete the rout.

On the women’s side, big

scores were the order of the day.

For the Ulster Elks, their twoyear reign came to an end in ignominious fashion, falling 7-0 on home turf to Railway Union.

Niamh Carey and Emma Smyth both scored doubles while Cecelia Joyce, Zara Delany and Sinead Dooley all on the mark.

Hermes-Monkstown were 5-0 winners over Corinthian in a Dublin derby with Chloe Watkins scoring a brace.

Loreto won 4-1 at Dungannon while Evie McCullough scored the only goal for Trinity as they saw off Lisnagarvey.

20 October 2016 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

Gavin’s 5,300-strong Ark brings hope to east Africa Dublin manager travels to Rwanda for a very special Bothar project just days after guiding Dublin to a third All-Ireland senior football championship title under his stewardship  JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

FRESH from leading Dublin to their second consecutive All-Ireland title, manager Jim Gavin curtailed celebrations in order to accompany 5,300 farm animals to Rwanda on behalf of charity Bothar.

It is part of the charity’s work in the country, particularly in helping the victims of the 1994 Rwandan genocide which still hovers over many aspects of life.

Gavin left just 11 days after securing his third All-Ireland title in charge of the boys in blue, flying out of Shannon to the poverty-stricken, land-locked east African country after collecting the livestock in Tipperary and Clare.

T h e t r i p b r o ke a record as the largest delivery of multi-species cargo ever to take place.

Gavin - who works in the aviation sector when he’s not working with the county side – said: “I’ve been fortunate to have flown around the world but this is a unique experience.”

Bothar has long specialised in sending dairy cows, goats and other livestock out to some of the poorest parts of Africa in order to create sustainable farming conditions and help families out of poverty. “ Tr a n s p o r t i n g 41 tonnes of quality Irish livestock through the night from Ireland to deepest Africa, including a fuelling stop in Cairo, was unprecedented for me,” Gavin said of the

Jim Gavin with some of the pigs he transported to Rwanda

trip.

“Most important was knowing at the end of it we were bringing this precious cargo, donated

by Irish farmers and other Bothar supporters, to change the lives of almost 800 of the world’s poorest people.”

Gavin told the charity’s blog of his experiences, explaining some of the mechanisms and going into details about the delivery.

“The Bothar Ark carrying the animals is a very special 25th anniversary airlift of 37 incalf heifers, three bulls for the Rwandan government’s National Bovine Breeding Scheme, 260 pigs, 100 goats and 5,000 chicks,” he added.

“Also on board were 5,000 doses of bovine semen for the Rwandan

Breeding Programme run by Bothar’s sister agency Heifer International.”

Gavin went on to talk about his personal connections to the mission, including some of the farmers who have donated, before outlining the financial scale of the offering.

“All in all, the cargo

explained.

Rwanda suffered the worst genocide since the holocaust 22 years ago, when Gavin was still turning out for the boys in blue. The country’s population of 12 million was decimated, with the genocide having aimed to wipe out the Tutsis from the population.

Many of the animals

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

‘There were many widows... one who only got her husband’s torso to bury’ Jim Gavin

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

is worth just short of €350,000,” he explained.

“It’s essentially a donation by the people of Ireland to what are among the poorest people in the world, and most of them have been affected by genocide.”

As well as delivering the thousands of animals to Rwanda, Gavin has also met with widows of the genocide during his trip.

The Dublin boss had written to Bothar to offer his support earlier this year, and after being invited to join the 25th anniversary trip, said that the end of his journey was particularly important to him.

“Local volunteers could be heard chopping up elephant grass for the animals when we arrived. I’m assured they’ll be treated like a family member,” he

delivered on the trip went directly to families impacted on by the events of 1994.

“There were many genoicide victims, and one story was as tragic as the next,” Gavin said of the trip. “There were many widows, like a mother whose five children and her husband was butchered in the bloodlust. She only got her husband’s torso to bury, but none of her children’s remains were returned.”

“We also heard stories of hope,” he continued, “thanks in no small part to NGOs like Bothar who have given these genocide widows hope and enabled them to put their lives back together as best they can in these tragic circumstances.”

You can follow Gavin’s Rwandan experience online at Bothar.ie.

FASTSport

Parkrun going strong for runners of all ages FREE, volunteer-led and tailored to all comers, Marlay Park’s parkrun – and the broader parkrun concept – is going from strength to strength as it draws on its community and invites everyone to get involved.

The weekly Saturday-morning jaunt is a timed run across five kilometres and typically attracts 450 to 500 runners, ranging from competitive club runners to joggers in their 80s and parents pushing buggys.

“We’ll stay until the very last person crosses the line,” organiser Liam McCambridge explains of the concept.

“It’s important that parkrun is a timed run, rather than a race. It’s about running against yourself. Of the people who turn up every Sunday, probably about one third are first timers.

“Another third are occasional runners, and we have a final third who will be there at very nearly every run, and have made it a part of their weekend.”

Originally from County Antrim, McCambridge helped set up the Marlay Park edition of parkrun – Ireland’s largest – after seeing the success of the concept in Malahide. Having originated in Bushy Park, London, the event has grown rapidly in Ireland, with 56 separate parkruns now taking place regularly in the Republic.

In the early days, though, running the event on a weekly basis required plenty of persuasion.

Runners are encouraged to volunteer at one of every 10 events, rather than actually run, though McCambridge says that some enjoy the volunteering aspect so much that they never actually run the route themselves.

“It was a little difficult to set up,” McCambridge admits. “You need permission of the landlord and the set up costs are around €7,000; parkrun contributes half of that.

“Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, who own Marlay Park, were a little apprehensive at first, and after a few discussions, gave us permission for a few months. They also gave us the half of the funds we had to raise. It proved popular, and the feedback was excellent, so it wasn’t difficult to extend the time after that.”

If you’d like to take part in parkrun, you can find further information or sign up at parkrun.ie/ marlay.

GAZETTE

30 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 October 2016

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: ELMDALE SET TO HOST SPECIAL FRIENDLY ON FRIDAY

Eanna break their duck in men’s Super League COMMERCIAL.IE Éanna stormed to their first win of the men’s Super League at the weekend as they overcame DCU Saints 77-73 in a nailbiter as part of the Men’s Super Series weekend at the National Basketball Arena.

A delighted Head Coach, Mick Thompson, was thrilled with the result: “We put a lot of work in during the week so we were more disciplined - that was the difference. We did what we had practised, and we’re delighted.

“You can see how hard the lads are willing to work: it’s just a matter of doing what we know we can do and hopefully get more results.”

It was the Dublin club’s first win of the competition and lifts them above newcomers KUBS. Elsewhere, Pyrobel Killester overcame Belfast Star on a 77-60 scoreline with Jermaine Turner netting 19 points in the process with good support from Peder Madsen and Cian Nihill/ Griffith Swords Thunder claimed victory against Radisson Blu UL Eagles thanks to 16 points from Justin Goldsborough and 12 each from Charlie Coombes and Alex Calvexe.

That win keeps the Thunder in a share of second place with UCD after four rounds of matches thanks to their comfortable 88-53 success. UCC Demons had the edge on KUBS BC in a late thriller . The Demons were 77-74 wins in the final reckoning.

Meanwhile, Courtyard Liffey Celtics were victorious over NUIG Mystics in a closely contested women’s Super League clash in Leixlip. An in-form Emma O’Connor netted 21 for Celtics who just had the edge at the final buzzer, 68-63.

“That was a great game,” said Head Coach, Mark Byrne. “I’m delighted with our own girls: they stuck to their task. It’s great to win a close game like that, it’s great experience. We’re away to Glanmire now next and we’re looking forward to that. Every time you play them it’s an opportunity to test yourself against the best.”

Ambassador UCC Glanmire retained their lead at the top of the table with a 62-59 point win over Meteors, Maxol WIT Wildcats just edged Pyrobel Killester (65-60) in a thriller.

DCU Mercy had too much for Singleton SuperValu Brunell, running out 80-48 point winners.

Cherry Orchard are looking to set up an ongoing link with Norway’s Tromso IL.

Cherries Norwegian connection  KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

CHERRY Orchard will welcome former AC Milan defender Steinar Nilsen and his fellow Tromso IL legends, as they prepare to take on the Norwegians in honour of the late Desi Egan on Friday night.

The club’s over 35s team will compete for the Desi Egan Memorial Trophy against Tromso IL’s famous Norwegian Cup winning side of 1996.

As well as playing in honour of Desi who was a long-time coach at Cherry Orchard, the match will act as a launch for

the club’s new 3G astro pitch and the 20th anniversary of the Norwegian club’s last trophy.

Former Cherry Orchard schoolboy and League of Ireland star Mark O’Neill is now a coach at the club and spoke to GazetteSport about the excitement surrounding the event.

“I think it is a very unique thing for the community and exciting for the club. Steinar Nielsen, ex-AC Milan, is playing for them as well as other well-known stars.

“We’ve launched our brand new 3G facility which is fantastic so it was just a case of getting

LEINSTER MASCOT Canniffe meets blue heroes for Euro tie BALLSBRIDGE boy Mark Canniffe enjoyed his day as Leinster rugby’s mascot, getting to meet the province’s players Tom Daly and Jonny Sexton ahead of the European Rugby Champions Cup Pool 4 Round 1 match between Leinster and Castres at the RDS Arena in Dublin.

The province got up and running in this year’s competition with a comfortable 33-15 victory.

Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

some local press around it. It’s a really exciting thing for the whole community because the rivalry with the likes of Kevin’s and Joeys is still there and now we can put them on this beautiful brand new 3G beside our new facilities in Elmdale.”

The match came about after Tromso IL approached Bohemians Football Club about playing the Masters team – a project that was set-up by O’Neill.

“They made the approach through Bohemians to play the masters but I decided it was a great opportunity to

bring them to Cherry Orchard and play the over 35s team,” said O’Neill.

The Cherries youngsters will also get the chance to show off their skills during the breaks of the match that will be played in three 30 minute instalments. In O’Neill’s mind, the match with Tromso IL will hopefully be just the beginning of a long-standing connection.

“Wouldn’t it be lovely if a kid from Ballyfermot ended up playing for Tromso IL of Norway?

“Ultimately for me, it is about making this friendship with them. Cherry

Orchard are one of the biggest schoolboy clubs in the country, if not the biggest, and making a friendship connection with Tromso IL’s academy, it’s a lovely story for football development in this country.”

Tromso’s lineup will contain their Director of Football as well as League of Ireland legends such as Derek Treacy, while Cherry Orchard will be represented by their chairman Tom Kennedy and Desi’s son Sean.

The match takes kicks off in Elmdale at 7.30pm this Friday and is free to attend for all.

20 October 2016 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

MR MOTIVATOR

FASTGAA

Erin’s Isle pepped up at Gaelic 4 Mothers blitz ERIN’S ISLE got their picture taken with

Ireland’s Mr Motivator Richie Clifford at the Gaelic4Mothers and Others national blitz 2016 held jointly in Malahide and Portmarnock last Saturday as part of the day’s entertainment.

The event saw over 1,000 players taking parts from teams all around the country in their annual blitz.

Picture: Peter Hickey/GAAPics.com

HURLING: AYRFIELD SIDE BOW OUT IN SEMI-FINALS

Whitehall and St Pat’s camogie champions

Kilmacud Crokes’ Niall Corcoran gets in a tangle against O’Toole’s. Picture: Diarmuid O’Gallchobhair

O’Toole’s succumb to O’Rorke’s accuracy

SHC SEMI-FINAL Kilmacud Crokes 2-19 O’Toole’s 0-13  sport@dublingazette.com

OISIN O’Rorke’s accuracy was once again a key factor as he struck 1-11 Kilmacud Crokes defeated O’Toole’s in Sunday’s opening Dublin SHC semi-final at Parnell Park.

After an initially shaky start, Crokes got on top with O’Rorke’s goal and they pulled away as time pushed on according to Niall Corcoran.

“We started off nervously and O’Toole’s got a few points up,” he said

afterwards. “But our lads got their act together up front and got the two goals [before half-time] which were ultimately the difference and we’re just happy to be in the final.

“We definitely had more chances in the first half but didn’t take them.

We had to tighten up on our discipline but we kept calm, kept our structure and worked to the game plan and the second half loosened up a bit more and we took a few more scores to finish off the game.”

T he Larriers had started well with three

Niall Arthur points edging them in front before O’Rorke booted home the opening goal. Oisín and his brother Barry continued to keep the scoreboard ticking for Crokes before the concluding the half on the up.

Ross O’Carroll followed up scoring a point from play by firing home his side’s second goal from a great Fergal Whitely crossfield delivery in the second minute of first half added time.

Arthur replied with a free but Whitely finished the first half scoring with a point to give

Ollie Baker’s men a 2-10 to 0-7 interval advantage.

Crokes continued to hold O’Toole’s at arm’s length in the second half.

Arthur, Oisin O’Rorke, s u b A n d r e w M o rris and O’Rorke again exchanged scores on the restart before Ger Arthur and his brother Niall got three in succession to cut the deficit to six points, 2-12 to 0-12 after 40 minutes.

However, Kilmacud bounced back with points from Ryan O’Dwyer and Ross O’Carroll and only conceded once more down a comfortable closing stretch.

FIVE-STAR Whitehall Colmcilles won the Senior 5 camogie championship crown thanks to a 5-6 to 1-7 win over Cumann Baire Chaoimhin last weekend.

With a strong breeze at their back, the north Dubline side made the early running, putting the CBC defence under huge pressure.

Despite their dominance, after 10 minutes, they had only 1-1 to show for their efforts – the result of brave defending from CBC – with a goal from full forward Kate Murphy and a pointed free from Meggan O’Reilly the difference.

CBC’s first real attack brought them a point from play from Louise Brennan. The play ebbed and flowed over the next 10 minutes with only a single point separating the teams after 22 minutes, 1-3 to 1-4.

But a late Kate Mulvey goal and a fabulous long range pointed free by O’Reilly gave Whitehall a four-point lead at the break, leading 2-5 to 1-4.

Nonetheless, CBC went into the second half with some confidence with the benefit of conditions in their favour.

Whitehall, however, were having none of it. O’Reilly, the player of the match, set the pace with a well taken goal after five minutes. CBC played valiantly but the Whitehall defenders kept them to a solitary point from a 45 in the first 10 minutes.

Two goals in the space of three minutes by full forward and captain Kate Mulvey established an unassailable lead.

CBC mounted attack after attack but the Whitehall defence prevented them for getting the goals they so desperately needed. They did add a couple of points but Whitehall ran out 11-point winners.

Elsewhere, St Pat’s, Palmerstown won the Senior 4 title with Sadhbh Duffy scoring 2-2 and Kate O’Brien 1-3 in their 3-9 to 1-9 win over Cuala.

The win was built around an epic spell for the Palmerstown club in which they scored 1-6 without reply in the first half.

Cuala rallied to trail by just four points at half-time but they were never able to fully close the gap as Duffy and O’Brien struck goals in the second half to pull the game out of reach.

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Cllanna Gael Fontenoy celebrating their Dublin intermediate championship final success. Picture: Peter Hickey/GAAPics.com

Clanna Gael’s inter mission Ringsend club await Leinster championship final opponent but thoughts already in the long-term as club hope to make their mark at senior level

 JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

DESPITE the anticipation, Clanna Gael Fontenoy are thinking in terms of wider benefits for the club ahead of the Leinster Intermediate Football Final, recently rescheduled to October 30.

The Ringsend club have had a dramatic run to the provincial final, winning the Dublin county intermediate final in the dying seconds before scoring a late goal to take the quarter final and needing extra time to win the semi.

Club secretary Pat Kane is thinking of the longer game, however. “It’s been interesting to say the least,” Kane said of the run.

“Obviously it’s captured the imagination of the club. We’ve shown our strength in coming from behind several times along the way. It went to the wire in the county final and we were behind for most of the second half in the Leinster quarter final before a late goal. We dominated extra time in the semi, but obviously it could have gone either way before that.

“Thinking longer term, though, the move to the seniors next year is probably more important. We’re developing as a club, and we probably didn’t expect to be where we are now, so we’ll take each game as it comes.

“Playing regularly in the seniors is essential, which means the league is also very important to us. Playing against sides like Foxrock Cabinteely,

Ballyboden St Enda’s and St Brigid’s – who are full of county level players – week in, week out is going to hugely improve us as a team.”

At the time of writing, Clanna Gael are waiting on the decision of an appeal in the other semi-final to learn exactly who their opponents come October 30 and are slightly wary of the opportunity this gives both of their prospective opponents.

“We play Clontarf – the same team we beat in the intermediate final - this week,” Kane explained. “We’ve been careful not to advertise that one too much, but anyone who’s got their head screwed on and wants to learn about us will obviously know we’re playing and they have the chance to check us out.

“One difficulty with championship football is the sides from other counties can be unknown quantities.

“We’ve been able to pick up a little bit through word of mouth so far, but we didn’t get a look at [semi-final opponents] Killoe before we actually played them. We did have that chance before the quarter final.

“But we’ve made ourselves very difficult to beat, and this is all a bonus. In the long term, we really need to be in division one. If we don’t achieve that this year, it’ll certainly be top of the list of next year’s priorities.

“We’re probably not at senior one level yet, if we’re honest with ourselves. But we’re getting there.”