Dublin city

Page 1

Gazette dublin city

FREE

Soccer:

Kelly enjoys dream debut for Bohemians Page 32

Rugby:

Lansdowne still leading way in UBL Division 1A Page 28

Find us on

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES..................... 10 DUBLIN LIFE................... 13 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................28

March 12 - 18, 2014 Month XX, 2012

available in: dublin city centre • finglas • coolock • ballymun • Raheny • fairview • santry • whitehall • drumcondra

inchicore • ringsend • sandymount • Ballsbridge • rathmines • drimnagh • terenure • walkinstown • ballyfermot • crumlin

INSIDE: We ask top comic Jason a Byrne-ing question – how does he escape the mayhem? P15

relax: We’ve got all you need to know about Paddy’s Day celebrations P8

Council pays out €8m for injuries  laura webb

Dublin City Council paid out in the region of €8m last year on public liability and employee injury claims. The council received 1,206 injury claims from the public in 2014 with many of these settled at a cost of €7.7m. That same year the council paid out €324,170 for 23 out of 71 such claims received from employees. The types of injuries sustained by the public included broken limbs

and facial injuries. Injuries sustained by employees included limb injuries and needle-stick injuries. Since 2012, the council has paid out over €2m in settlements on 125 employee injury claims. Cllr Jim O’Callaghan (FF) has called for safer systems of work for council employees and better protection from injury for the public. The council said risk management is taken “very seriously”. Full Story on Page 3

Thumbs up: Arts festival puppet show is a delight for Jack

three-year-old Jack Rivera

from Glasnevin gives the thumbs up to The Mice and The Elephants, a puppet show by Puca Puppets in Charleville Library on North Strand. The show is part of the Five Lamps Arts Festival which started recently and

runs until March 14. This year’s programme has been particularly rich in events, spread across different venues in Dublin North, many of which commemorate the 1913 Lockout. www.fivelampsarts.ie.

Picture: Peter Houlihan


2 dublin city gazette 12 march 2015

agreement Joint forum in council to manage service issues

Fire brigade to keep driving ambulances CONFIRMATION that Dublin Fire Brigade will continue to be involved in providing ambulance services in the Dublin region as well as shaping the service’s future has been welcomed. Firefighter and SIPTU spokesman for Dublin Fire Brigade Gerry Harris welcomed the outcome of a meeting between the vice president of SIPTU, Patricia King, and the general secretary of Impact,

 laura webb lwebb@dublingazette.com

Shay Cody, with the chief executive of Dublin City Council, Owen Keegan, and assistant chief executive Brendan Kenny, on March 6. The meeting followed a report by the

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Top Floor, Clarendon House, 39 Clarendon Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) highlighting the need for greater co-operation between the National Ambulance Ser vice (NAS) and Dublin Fire Brigade to ensure a better service. In response to the recommendations, HSE and the chief executives of the four Dublin local authorities agreed, in principle, that the NAS emergency operations’ centre in Tallaght would now have responsibility for taking calls for all Dublin emergency ambulances, as well as dispatching emergency resources of both NAS and the fire brigade. This agreement was

slammed by union representatives as being in breach of the Haddington Road agreement because there was no consultation or discussion with stakeholders prior to the decision being made. This week, Dublin City Council said agreements had now been reached on a number of principles including the control centre reconfiguration project, as recommended in the HIQA report, and that integrated emergency ambulance call taking and dispatch would be pursued; Dublin Fire Brigade would continue to be fully involved in emergency ambulance service delivery as part of this

Firefighters have welcomed news that their ambulance service will continue

reconfiguration and there would be no diminution in emergency ambulance service delivery. It was also agreed that a joint forum within the council, with management and union representatives, would be established under the

independent chair of Stephen Brady, a former Dublin chief fire officer, and matters arising from the reconfiguration would be addressed there. Harris told The Gazette: “We welcome that we will continue to be fully involved in the emer-

gency ambulance service delivery and there will be no diminution in the service to the population... that we will be involved in shaping the future of the call taking and dispatch... The committee is set to meet on Thursday, March 12, to discuss it further.”


12 March 2014 dublin city gazette 3

safety ‘Risk management taken very seriously’

Council shells out €8m in injury claims  Laura Webb

Public liability and employee injury claims cost Dublin City Council in the region of €8m last year. In 2014, the council received 1,206 claims from the public with many of these settled at a cost to the council of €7.7m. For the same year, the council settled 23 out of 71 injury claims received by employees at a cost of €324,170. The figures follow a question put down by

Cllr Jim O’Callaghan (FF) seeking information on both public liability and employee injury claims. In response, the council said the type of injuries sustained by the public were broken limbs, facial injuries, shoulder and back injuries among others. The council said risk management was taken “very seriously” and that the central claims unit worked closely with each council department to help identify the risk factors and discuss what

“preventative” measures can be taken. Since 2012, the council has spent almost €3.4m on all costs associated with employee injury claims, which include legal costs, engineer’s fees and compensation paid out. Of this figure €2,174,590 was paid out in settlements to 125 of the 194 employee injury claims received over the three-year period. The types of injuries include back injuries, limb injuries and needle stick injuries among other

Cllr Jim O’Callaghan (FF): “The city must review its measures and introduce safer systems of work for its employees urgently.”

things. The council said it was “extremely proactive” in training employees in all types of safety assessments. Cllr O’Callaghan is now calling for safer systems of work for council employees and better protection from injury for the public. “What the figures show is that Dublin City Council is spending more on

compensation settlements taken by its staff and the public year-on-year. “The city must review its measures and introduce safer systems of work for its employees urgently. The rise of needle-stick injuries sustained is particularly worrying. “Without a continual programme of thorough risk analysis and

the implementation of preventative measures, people’s lives are at risk and the cost of claims will continue to rise year on year. The continuing rise in claims raises the question about whether financial cutbacks have led to compromises in safety. If that is the case, those compromises must be reversed,” he said.

doodles Lexie looking for votes An eight-year-old Dublin student has reached the voting stage of the Doodle4Google competition with her design of a day in the playground. Lexie Hanaphy from Assumption Senior Girls Primary School in Walkinstown, Dublin 12 created a doodle based on the theme, My Perfect Day. The third class student designed her doodle around the idea of a day in the playground. Her school is now hoping the public will get behind her and vote for her doodle by logging onto: www.google. ie/doodle4google, click Vote now, then choose Group 2, click on Lexie’s picture and vote. Closing date for voting is March 20.


4 dublin city gazette 12 March 2015

clampdown Gardai say changing tack has led to more family friendly occasion

Last orders for boozy St Patrick’s Day festivities  laura webb

REVELLERS taking to Dublin city this St Patrick’s Day are being warned to stop the excessive drinking as city gardai get set to clamp down on street drinking during the festivities. It is the busiest day of the year for the force and final

touches are being put to the policing plan for the day in the city. Speaking to The Gazette, Chief Superintendent Pat Leahy said St Patrick’s Day was not about “drinking” and that co-operation from offlicences and public transport services were helping to clamp down on street drinking.

“The last four years have seen a big change. Our policing approach has changed; we are much more proactive in the early hours of the morning – we start from 7am onwards. We have had great engagement from off-licences who remain closed at our request until 3pm or 4pm in the afternoon.

“Dublin Bus have been great partners and they let us know who is arriving into town with bags full of cans, and we are waiting at the busstops for them when they get off and we confiscate them. We are very proactive in confiscating alcohol on the streets during the day. “By 5pm to 6pm in the

evening we have noticed a significant change in the effects of the consumption of alcohol. “We have had four very good years in the city centre in terms of the impact on families coming in, the business community and tourists. “Prior to that we had some very challenging St Patrick’s

Days especially later in the evening. “We have solved that problem to a large extent,” he said. Describing St Patrick’s Day as “one of the best days of the year” in the city, Chief Supt Leahy said the city centre was “open for business” and was encouraging people to “come in for the parade”.

Dublin festivals give cead mile Failte to funding boost DUBLIN city festivals and events have been given a funding boost by Failte Ireland with €107,500 allocated for 28 events in the capital. An average grant of €3,000 each has been given to the festivals and events, which include Bloomsday, Hardworking Class Heroes, Dublin Dance Festival, Temple Bar Arts Week and Dublin Gay Theatre Festival. Emphasising the importance of such assistance, Minister of State for Employment, Community and Social Support

Kevin Humphreys said: “The funding announced will allow local businesses and communities to broaden their appeal to overseas visitors who will be able to experience everything from culture and sport, to food and family fun. These events are the lifeblood of tourism and give visitors compelling reasons to explore the city. I am delighted that Failte Ireland has recognised the value of these events. They will provide the backbone to the tourism calendar in local communities.”


12 March 2014 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 5

Treat yourself to a good night’s sleep this March at Des Kelly Interiors

What’s behind a good night’s sleep?? At Des Kelly Interiors, they know the one escapable truth behind a good night’s sleep, everyone is different! Des Kelly Interiors have built up a reputation over the last 45 years and continually strive to bring you, the consumer the best price, formidable selection and exceptional craftmanship. They are passionate about beds, and from their choice of mattresses, right through to their bedroom furniture , all the little things that make your bedroom you own, Des has it all. Spring into action this month, and treat yourself to a good night’s sleep. It is always the last upgrade thought of by most households but it’s the change you’ll fell most presently. So many of us are sleeping

on terrible mattresses that do nothing to support our spines. Taking the time to research mattresses, find the one that’s right for you, and investing in it can make a huge difference in your sleep quality. You will sleep soundly and wake up feeling refreshed. That alone is worth the price. Des Kelly Interior’s highly trained sleep consultants can help you find the right combination , so you can unlock the perfect night’s sleep, not just for one night but every night. At

the heart of their knowledge is all the experience they have accumulated over the past 45 years, combined with exclusive technology and a never ending commitment to offer you the very best latest innovations in sleep. So why not invest in yourself this month, afterall you spend at least 1/3 of your day at bed, sleeping. At Des Kelly Interiors, they have pocket sprung beds, memory foam beds, gel latex beds, in fact, they have every bed you can think of. So call into your nearest store, and let them, the sleep specialists help you find the bed that is designed for you to deliver the best night’s sleep possible. When you sleep well, the world is a brighter place.

D

R OA

AW R D

EE DB FR EA X 2 &H S ER


6 dublin city gazette 12 March 2015

theatre A Life to be staged at library PEARSE Street Library will host a rehearsed reading of A Life, a play by Victor Fieldman, with poetry by Mary Guckian. Using poetr y and drama, A Life, published by Swan Press, tells the story of a young rural woman’s plight in the big city of Dublin. This rehearsed reading of the new play was recently performed in the Irish Writers Centre and will be performed again at Pearse Library, 138-144 Pearse Street, Dublin 2 on March 18 at 6.30pm. This event is free and no booking is required. For further information on events at Pearse Street Library, call 01 674 4888 or email pearsestreetlibrary@dublincity.ie.

exhibition Students’ colourful take on statue

Giving The Lady on the Rock a fresh new look  laura webb

SHE has been seen in hundreds of windows across the city, becoming an icon for city dwellers, but this spring, The Lady on the Rock is getting a makeover. The white statue sitting on the windowsills of many homes has been turned into a new exhibition, thanks to the work of fifth year art students at St Michael’s Holy Faith School in Finglas. T he Lady on the Rock – Rocking a New

Look, is being exhibited at Axis: Ballymun until April. Here, students are showcasing their artistic talents and presenting the statues that they have transformed from a plain white to colourful, unique and unusual designs. The school’s fifth-year art teacher, Linda Keegan, was intrigued by the appeal of the white statue and thought about giving this plain yet symbolic statue a makeover with the help of her students. After some research, she located the original

supplier and soon began to transform the plain plaster into colourful pieces of art. She said: “Driving around Cabra and Finglas, I was intrigued by the appearance of these mysterious white ladies in the windows – I couldn’t understand their appeal, and never would have guessed what an interesting hidden history they had to reveal. “The class have brought this story to life and given each lady a personal story through their wonderful

Just one of the new looks that art students at St Michael’s Holy Faith School have applied to the widespread plaster model found in parts of the city

designs.” There are a few different stories about the origin of the woman on the rock. Some people believe it pays homage to the Virgin Mary, while others say she symbolises the sole survivor of a shipwreck off the coast of Ireland.

A man named Harold Gardiner made the lady as a clay model. A mould was then made with the help of Edward Loughman, of RPM Supplies. When Gardiner passed away, his wife asked Loughman to clear out his workshop. The mould then transferred from his

hands to Vincent Doran’s of Dublin Mouldings, who now sells it to the public. The exhibition is part of a season at Axis celebrating life and culture in Dublin. The Lady on the Rock – Rocking a New Look exhibition runs until April 17. Admission is free.


12 March 2015 dublin city gazette 7

Commercial Fe ature

RETAIL Gerard Ladies Fashion For the latest in tops, dresses, jackets, skirts, trousers, jewellery and accessories; sizes 10 - 22.

See www.gerardfashions.com.

River Island Star ring €8

Tierneys Buy any two pieces of the Equilibrium jewellery range of necklaces, pendants, bracelets, bangles and earrings and receive a free pair of Equilibrium CZ Crystal Bow Earrings (value €20). Equilibrium price range €20 to €25.

Jericho Prem ium Beauty Pack premium toner, active se rum, restoring day cream and eye and ne ck gel; all natura l from the Dead Sea €170 Was €310

T&Cs:Subject to limited availability. Offer valid until Sunday, March 15. One per customer purchase.

MUM’STHE WORDATIlac

IT’S Mother’s Day again and buying that perfect gift can often take more time than we budgeted for. Thankfully, the Ilac Centre is on hand with its vast variety of stores to make life easier. From jewellery to gift sets, makeup to accessories, this year’s perfect

present for your mum is out there somewhere in the Ilac, waiting patiently in one of its 80 stores for you to choose it. And, when shopping gets too much, take a well-deserved break in one of the centre’s many eateries. Why not? You deserve it! In the meantime, here are a few ideas to get you thinking. Now there’s no excuse for you to forget Mother’s Day on March 15!

Boots Champneys Citrus Blush Spring Collection €21 Was €45

r Is

Rive land

Boots Sanctuary With Love Indulgent Bathing Gift Set €30 Was €62

Bag €67 Boots Eternity Moment for Women EDP natural spray 50ml €31 Was €67


8 dublin city gazette 12 March 2015

St Patrick’s Day

dublin celebrations: four-day extravaganza

Festival promises an abundance of events

Rustle out the aul green, white and orange attire and join Dublin in its celebration of Ireland’s national day this March 17 with an abundance of events set to take place across the capital. Once again, the city has high hopes for St Patrick’s Day with festival organisers making it a four-day extravaganza from March 14 to 17. The I Love My City Cultural Programme was

unveiled this week with 18 events and happenings taking place in some of Dublin’s most beautiful, historic and often hidden venues and spaces. Events feature both established and emerging artists, from a variety of disciplines including literature, music, film, spoken-word, photography, design, visual art and more. Highlights of this year ’s programme include the Ultimate

Sunday in Belvedere House when I Love My City brings the Sunday papers to life through talks, interviews, live music, comedy, games, films and more. Bia Beatha at the Guinness Storehouse offers a unique dining experience, celebrating Irish cuisine and culture in a setting filled with old world charm. A special screening of The Snapper plus Q&A with acclaimed Irish

actor Colm Meaney will take place in the Pillar Room in Dublin’s Rotunda Hospital. Children are catered for with Mad Myths at the Royal Hibernian Academy where children are invited to join a playful, interactive session of stories and songs to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. But the highlight is of course the St Patrick’s Day parade led by Dubliner Brendan O’Carroll with its theme of Cele-

brate Now on March 17. This parade will transform the city with fantastical creations and thrilling performances that are inspired by the present. There is also a funfair, an Irish boat race, street theatre and more taking place. Events are either free ticketed or paid ticketed. For further details on the St Patrick’s Day Festival and booking details see www.stpatricksfestival.ie

In the green: Comedian Brendan O’Carroll is this year’s Grand Marshal of the St Patrick’s Festival Parade. Picture: Robbie Reynolds Photography


12 March 2015 dublin city gazette 9


10 dublin city gazette 12 March 2015

gazetteGALLERIES

John Daly (Fairtrade Ireland) and Senator David Norris (Ind)

anniversary: Parade marks 25 years of the Carmichael Centre

T

he 45 voluntary and community groups which make up the Carmichael Centre for Voluntary Groups paraded through the streets of Dublin recently to mark the centre’s 25th anniversary. The Carmichael Centre is the first and largest shared service centre in Ireland. The groups come from diverse backgrounds but are united in the work they do to help the vulnerable in our society. Many are directly affected by the issues which their groups support – parents of children with learning difficulties, such as dyspraxia, ADHD, and medical issues such as congenital heart disease.

Evanna Kiernan and Cathy Donohoe. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Cathy and Riona Keaveney Gary Lee, Centre For Independent Living Janet Takuz and Leah Kilcullen

planning Notice Dublin City Council

Pauline Mahady and Sabrina Fagan

Marie Reavey, Aisling Farrell and Denyse Gaffney, Irish Motor Neuron Disease Association

We, Jonathan & Annmarie Blennerhassett, intend to apply for planning permission for works located at No. 6 Anna Villa, Ranelagh, Dublin 6. The development will consist of the demolition of existing garden sheds and the erection of a single storey extension all to the side and front of the existing two storey semi detached house, as well as a dormer extension to the rear pitch and 2 No. velux rooflights to the front pitch of the existing roof. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Dublin City Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. 23373

Leanne Brady and Carly Killeen


12 March 2015 dublin city gazette 11

Debenhams: launching an exclusive collection

On the cutting edge of beauty B

eauty lovers gathered at the Urban Decay counter at Debenhams Henry Street recently for the exclusive Beauty with an Edge Spring Collection launch. Guests enjoyed a masterclass with Urban Decay senior makeup artist Amanda Carney as well as Urbantini mocktails and cocktails and feasted on sweet

treats. The masterclass focused on spring and celebrity trends and questions from guests determined to get the latest celebrity inspired looks with Cara Delevingne, Rita Ora and Emma Stone proving most popular celebrity inspirations. Each guest left with a complimentary make-up consultation and gift. Natasha Haven and Nadine Lyons

Ellen Sherry

Elaine Ryan

Kate Cullen

Tara McNally and Elaine McNally

planning Notice Dublin City Council

Emma Walsh and Caitriona Brennan

Anna Murphy and Teresa Murphy

Planning permission is sought by Mary Pat Aherne for the construction of a rear dormer attic conversion with additional rooflight to the front roof pitch, all with associated elevation changes at No. 13 Bramley Crescent, Carpenterstown, Dublin 15.The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during the public opening hours of 9:3016:30, Monday – Friday at Fingal County Council, Grove Road, Blanchardstown, Fingal, Dublin 15. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of ₏20, within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by Fingal County Council of the Application. 23390


12 Gazette 12 March 2014

gazetteGALLERY

Ellen Keane and Aisling Byrne

Claire Hogan, Colin Mulcahy and Aisling Cunningham at the Irish premiere screening of Will Smith’s latest film, Focus, at Cineworld. Pictures: Brian Mcevoy

dark romcom: focus on wily will Smith, THE con artist

All eyes on screen for Hollywood premiere

Emma Klyne and Lucy O’Shea

Carl Shabaan and Steph Hesnan

Jenny Dixon

Norman Pratt and Darren Kennedy

Barbara Healy and Thomas Korner


12 March 2015 Gazette 13

Gazette

diary P14

dublinlife

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools

a day in the life: Corrie villain finds skyping his son brightens his day

what’son

‘Angry man’ visits churches between shows  laura webb

BEST known for his role as Corrie villain Frank Foster, Andrew Lancel is now making his mark on stage in Twelve Angry Men. For anyone on the road, living in hotels and out of suitcases, there are few typical days. Lancel takes this in his stride as he tours t he UK a nd I rela nd alongside veteran actor Tom Conti. He star ts his day early with a Skype call from his seven-year-old son, Isaac, and his wife, Louise. “We have our breakfast together and always have a chat before he goes to school in the morning when I am on tour. “It’s a great way to catch up and after that I would take it easy,

maybe snooze a little or look at the news. I read a lot too, so I might do that,” he said. A day on tour could include interviews with the local press about the show. Then he concentrates on his work with his production company, Quarry Street, before checking out the town where the play is being performed. “I am quite churchy and one of the good things about being on tour is that it’s great to go to different places and visit amazing cathedrals, and different places. “I am a stickler for art galleries so I will try to get one in before heading to the theatre. “There is a lot of energy involved in this play; there are 12 of us, and we all get on really well so we would see each

other out and about, go to the pub and go for dinner together and things.” Getting to theatre an hour before show time, he has a shave. “I have a little routine that I do. “The character speaks in a different accent [New York] and is very physical so I would practise that – a little warm up. “Then I...walk the stage, sometimes for quite a while if it’s a new stage, look at sight lines to get used to it.” He may go to the pub with other cast members afterwards or relax in front of the TV and chat with family. Twelve Angr y Men is at Bord Gais Energy Theatre from March 16 to 21. See www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie for ticket details.

BUSINESS asdfsdaf P27 q&a P16

escape the mayhem 15

a sneak peak behind the scenes: Cool-

Andrew Lancel: “I am a stickler for art galleries so I will try to get one in before heading to the theatre.”

mine Musical Society will be performing a variety show, called That’s Entertainment on March 20 and 21 in Draiocht, Blanchardstown. The show is the society’s first big production of the year and is centred around what goes on in theatres behind the scenes before the curtain goes up. The show is described as a celebration of “the hoofers, the wannabes, the dancers and singers of the backstage musical”. According to organisers, laughter and tears, rehearsals and auditions, callbacks and casting all come together in a fun packed show. The show will feature music from the old Hollywood blockbusters right through to more recent production: “This show will pack lots of surprises and send you home with a spring in your step.” The shows begin at 8pm on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 March. For further information or to book tickets call (01) 8852622 or visit www.draiocht.ie.


Gazette

14 Gazette 12 March 2015

dublinlife

DIARY

Stripped bare: More than 100 animals will go on display at the BodyWorlds: Animals Inside Out exhibition at the Ambassador this month. Pictures: Animal Inside Out

Inner animal life on view MORE than100 animal specimens stripped of their outer hides or skins, will be on display at the Ambassador in the Bodyworlds: Animals Inside Out exhibition from March 12 to April 12. Exhibition organiser Dr Angelina Whalley spoke to The Gazette about the exhibition, which uses the preservative techniques of plastination invented by her husband, Gunther von Hagen. She said: “My husband is the inventor of the technology in 1977 and has devoted his entire career to developing it to its state-of-theart form today.

“It was primarily to be used to help teach anatomy at the universities…it was by chance we became aware there was great interest from the public to learn about the body interior.” She went on to say: “The animals are mostly from zoos, animal parks and a few private people. “The animal exhibit is fantastic, holding a number of really dram a t i c a n d e xc i t i n g specimens like an entire Asian elephant with all the muscles and nerves dissected, and a huge giraffe but also domestic animals like cows and sheep.” Tickets are €14 for

adults and €8 for children at www.ticketmaster.ie

stroll around the bay area and help aware MORE than a 1,000 people are expected to descend on Howth Harbour before walking to Dun Laoghaire Harbour, or vice versa, this St Patrick’s Day for the 10th annual Aware Harbour2Harbour Walk. The walk showcases the beauty of Dublin Bay and its impressive 16.2 mile route offering a great alternative to mark St Patrick’s Day. Solo walkers or groups of family or friends can join in the

walk, which aims to raise about €40,000 for the work of Aware, the national charity providing support, information and education around depression and mental health. Participants are encouraged to raise sponsorship from colleagues, friends and family. Aware relies on events like this for about 92% of its annual funding. Online registration is available now at www. aware.ie

castle hotel chef is a Gold medal success C L O N TA R F C a s t e Hotel has reason to celebrate having been

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

‘Participants can opt to walk the 16.2 mile route from Howth to Dun Laoghaire or vice versa on the 10th annual Aware Harbour2Harbour on St Patrick’s Day – experience the beauty of Dublin Bay’

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

awarded gold and silver medals at the Catex Awards 2015, Ireland’s largest foodservice event. Ca stle Hotel was among hundreds of the finest hotels and restaurants in Ireland competing in this recent ceremony, held in the RDS, Dublin.

The team was represented by Clontarf Castle’s head chef Gareth Carberry, who entered three competitions and received the highest points in each category, gaining two gold medals and one silver medal. The highly coveted awards included an Irish fish competition, the

Irish lamb competition anda m Mystery Basket Competition. Commenting on their achievement, general manager David Hennessy said: “The Catex Awards are highly regarded and respected within the culinary industry. “To be recognised in this prestigious competition is a wonderful achievement. “It provided external recognition of our culinary success, which is important to all of the hotel team and our loyal customer base. “It also gives Clontarf Castle Hotel an enhanced profile in a competitive market place.”


12 March 2015 GAZETTE 15

DUBLIN STILL GOOD – BUT NOT AS GOOD DUBLIN has dropped nine places in quality of living rankings since 2009, according to the Mercer 2015 Quality of Living survey. But on the bright side, our capital still ranks higher than London! Dublin now sits 34th in the world (down from 25th) while London trails at 40. Dublin outranks every other city in Britian and Ireland and, according to Mercer, “enjoys high standards of quality of living and remains an attractive location for business”.

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

Mercer says that some of the reasons for Dublin being ranked in the top 50 for quality of living worldwide include lower levels of air pollution, an excellent choice of consumer goods and the socio-cultural environment.

‘Doran posed for selfies with fans at the Ireland v England rugby game at the Aviva Stadium’

50 SHADES OF SELFIES AS STAR HITS CAPITAL

Jay Duffy, son of Keith, with 50 Shades star Jamie Dornan

THE Number 37 on Dawson Street was the surprising scene for an A-list visit last Monday, March 2, when 50 Shades of Grey star Jamie Dornan was spotted having a tipple. The eagle-eyed Keith Duffy, who was also at

the bar, recognised the Hollywood A-lister and tweeted a photo of the meeting on Twitter. Duffy’s son Jay, who goes to Belevedere College, was with his father and got a selfie with Dornan, who had been

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

seen around Dublin over the weekend. He was spotted at the Aviva Stadium for Ireland’s Six Nations Rugby victory against England, where he posed with numerous fans for selfies.

ESCAPE THE MAYHEM: RUNNING HELPS JASON BYRNE

Only way to switch off is get outside and leg it  KEITH BELLEW

BETWEEN his chaotic schedule of international tours and shoots for his comedy chat series the Snaptastic Show, Jason Byrne finds very little time for recreation. He says that when he does get a chance for respite he doesn’t like to kick back and relax because his mind is inevitably draw n back to his comedy and career. Because of this he finds exercise is the best method of Escaping the Mayhem. He said: “I do a lot of fitness stuff. “If I need to escape I’ll just run out the door and go for a run. “I’ll do that or I’ll go training. “I’ll do anything from weightlifting, to TRX [Total Body Resistance Exercise which incorporates ropes and

suspension into body weight exercises], Jujitsu, or boxing. As long as I’m on the move, that’s me escaping. “I don’t escape into a book, or by just sitting there. “If I’m sitting down reading a book, which I do as well, it takes me ages because my brain just thinks of standup.” The main reasons he likes running so much as a means of escape is that it can be done almost anywhere, anytime, and if “you push yourself, you really feel the benefit”. “If I’m boxing, or fighting or running it’s almost kind of like an adrenaline drug. “I have been running for ages now, so the shortest run I’d do would be 10km and I’d do that quite lightly. “I was doing vigorous training for the New York City Marathon

Jason Byrne finds very little time for recreation

in November, and that was just crazy training, but I never felt as fit and happy in all my life.” He said that worries about bills and financial difficulties melt away after a run. “If someone comes up to you and says: ‘Here’s a huge electricity bill for €500’, and you think: ‘What am I

going to do?’ What you need to do is put your runners on and go outside and leg it. “If you run and you push yourself a little bit I guarantee you’ll come back and that €500 doesn’t look like anything anymore.” You can catch Jason By r n e ’s S n a p t a s t i c Show each Thursdays at 9pm on TV3.

HELP – GREEN FELLA IS ON THE LOOSE AGAIN AS St Patrick’s Day approaches, the leprechaun at the National Wax Museum PLUS has run off again, and the museum is seeking

your help to find him! A hunt got under way on Saturday, March 7, and continues until St Patrick’s Day. All visitors are tasked with finding the little rascal by following a number of clues. The first clue has been left at reception, and from

GAZETTE

FEATURE

there guests must search for more clues, leaving no stone unturned until the leprechaun is found. Those searching are advised to enlist the help of resident Irish heroes in the museum, such as Michael Collins or St Patrick himself. Those who find him are asked to upload a photo to the wax museum Facebook page or Tweet to #LeprechaunLost. Those who do will be entered for a chance to win a wax museum T-shirt, a wax hands vo u c h e r, a n d o t h e r merchandise. For more information visit www. waxmuseumplus.ie.


Gazette

16 Gazette 12 March 2015

dublinlife

Q&A

business

Airbnb expansion is ‘very exciting’ COMMUNITY-driven hospitality company Airbnb, recently announced that it has started hiring for 200 new positions at its Dublin Dockland hub. These new positions are for roles in customer experience, human resources, finance, trust and safety, and IT. ICT Ireland, the tech-

nology sector representative body, said the move highlighted Ireland’s growing attractiveness for tech firms. T he company has also confirmed a lease for a planned 40,000 sq ft office space at an old warehouse on Hanover Quay. Over the next 14

months, the warehouse will be restored and modernised. Aisling Hassell, global head of customer experience and head of Airbnb in Ireland, said: “It’s been almost one year since we officially opened our Dublin office and we have been really pleased with our

progress so far in terms of talent and growth. “Our Dublin operation is a core part of the company and we are very excited to be in a position to build on our current success.” Airbnb is an online service allowing people to rent their homes for short periods.

awards: reward good karen Gardiner, ground espresso bars corporate behaviour

Expert knowledge helps Firms get coffee chain to be strong chance to KAREN Gardiner has a background in food science and a Master’s degree in nutrition. Along with husband and cofounder Darren Gardiner, she has recently opened a Ground Expresson Bar in Next, Westend Business Park, Blanchardstown, which employs 14 people. It is the latest addition to the chain of 14 outlets on the island of Ire-

land. Maintaining her passion to grow the coffee bars while staying true to the company’s ethical approach, she feels she is enjoying successes following years of hard work and dedication. She intends to remain a force to be reckoned with through the expansion of Ground Espresso Bars across Ireland and Northern Ireland.

How long have you been in business?

the recession, we now operate with an even more heightened sense that the climate in which we operate can change suddenly.

Ground Espresso Bars has been open for 14 years, with our first location opening in 2001 in Coleraine.

What makes your business successful?

I’m my own worst critic. I am constantly examining our business and the wider industry, remaining mindful that we work in an alwayschanging industry with evolving customer needs, and there is always room for improvement of our services and offerings.

What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?

We offer a high quality of coffee and customer service while keeping a local, family friendly level of service uniquely tailored to each customer’s needs.

How has the recession affected your business?

We used the recession as a growing experience and feel it had a positive effect on Ground Espresso Bars. It forced us to take stock and challenged us to re-evaluate our systems. We were able to prepare for any negative downturn approaching us, enabling us to protect the business and the staff that rely on us as well.

What have you changed about your business to combat the effects of the recession?

As with any business that survived

What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business?

Most laws are there for a reason. To be honest I think that although sometimes they provide a challenge, guidelines and laws are put in place to help us to stay informed, organised and ethical in the business world – something we take very seriously.

What is your ambition for the business?

We aspire to be the largest coffee bar chain in Northern Ireland and Ireland, achieving a local reputation in all areas of offering a high standard of coffee and customer service to all our fantastic customers.

What is your favourite thing about doing business in your local area?

As our business expands we are really learning that no two customers are the same, and that makes every day different. Ireland has a rich tapestry of kind souls and colourful characters!

What is the best piece of business advice you ever received?

If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always had!

show how they help in society CHAMBERS Ireland has announced that the application process for the 2015 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Awards is now open. The awards recognise the work being done by companies of all sizes to improve the lives of their employees, the local community and the environment. The competition offers the business community a chance to promote their efforts in corporate social responsibility and to gain recognition for best practice. The chair of the awards judging panel, John Cunningham, said: “Having chaired the judging panel for a number of years, I continue to be surprised by the exceptional ways that businesses are embracing CSR.

“Businesses in Ireland are unique in their unwavering commitment to running their businesses in a responsible and sustainable manner. “These awards are an opportunity to recognise this hard work and dedication and to highlight best practice so that others can follow in their footsteps.” Aw a r d c a t e g o r i e s include excellence in the environment, in the community (charity, volunteering and a community programme) , in the workplace, the marketplace, as well as international CSR, CSR communication, best SME [small to medium sized enterprises] and the overall Outstanding Achievement in CSR Award. Now in their 12th year, this year’s awards were launched in Dublin Castle.

Tina Roche, chief executive, Business in the Community Ireland, and Mike Jones, business development director, BAM Group Ireland at the launch of the 2015 Corporate Social Responsibility Awards

The awards are run in association with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government, partnered by Business in the Community Ireland and sponsored by construction company, BAM Group Ireland. Tina Roche, Business in the Community Ireland chief executive, said: “The awards continue to go from strength to strength and each year we see how companies are enhancing and improving their sustainability strategies and embedding corporate responsibility at the heart of their business. Businesses are increas-

ingly committed to the belief that customers, employees, investors and regulators place a high premium on trust, and that ethics and good governance are key in earning it. “By adopting this embedded and sustained approach to corporate responsibility, companies are yielding the noticeable advantages it can have on the bottom line. These awards champion this practice, which is integral to Ireland’s business reputation.” The closing date for nominations is April 21. For more information or to apply, visit www. csrawards.ie


12 March 2015 Gazette 17

travel P19

OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish and essential across the city

arts P25

Gazette

cinema P18

Pets help mighty max find his new home

Anton and Vladimir Jablokov will stage a unique concert at the National Concert Hall this April, drawing on and complementing each other’s skills

classical music: slovakian brothers prepare to play at the nch

Violinists should take a bow

 Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

HAVING grown up with a Russian violinist/conductor as a father, it seemed inevitable that fate had musical plans for Vladimir and Anton Jablokov. Playing since the age of five, Vladimir left the Conservatoire in Bratislava in his native Slovakia and moved to Dublin just over a decade ago. Now Vladimir has joined forces with his younger brother, Anton, who is also a classical violinist, to put on a unique concert of collaboration and duets at the National Concert Hall this April. The Gazette spoke to Vladimir about his career, to date. He said: “I came to Ireland about 11 years ago, having basically rebelled against my classical music studies for violin.

“I had got into my teenage years, and thought it [his studies] wasn’t cool enough and didn’t think it was exactly what I wanted to do with my life. I had been looking at musicians who’d studied at the conservatory of music and university and ended up just playing in an orchestra, and that wasn’t for me. “Anton, however, continued his studies and is finishing his masters this year. He took it much more seriously and did two years’ study in Switzerland, and another two in Germany. He travels from one professor to another, because he goes for the real ‘star’ professors who only use Stradivarius violins, and so on. “Anton really likes to improvise as well, and he practised a lot with me as he’s been coming here for about nine years for gigs, playing second violin.

“A really good player, though, gets bored playing second violin, and he’d try to do his little tricks and go further with it. From him trying to make it more interesting, we came up with new arrangements. From that, we came up with a new show, and it’s really exciting for me to have Anton on the stage now as an equal. He now has much more freedom and can show off,” said Vladimir. Vladimir and Anton have played together for 15 years; first as part of a family band of eight that travelled around central Europe, and then doing concerts in Ireland. His parents were full-time violinists all their lives and most of his siblings play violin, piano and cello. Like Vladimir, another younger brother rebelled and is now an athlete. Vladimir said: “I came for a visit and

to see something new. At that age, you try to prove to your parents that they are not always right.” So, off he went to Dublin, intending to stay for three months. He worked in cafes for a while but didn’t have enough money to live on. Then he noticed musicians playing on Grafton Street and decided to give it a go himself to make money. This led to his forming a band and building a reputation on the streets, and finally making it all the way to the National Concert Hall this Easter Saturday, April 4, as part of a nationwide tour. Tickets for the NCH event, priced €25, are available now from www.nch.ie. The Jablokovs have now released an album, Two Brothers, on Vladimir’s Rubyworks label, through Warner Brothers.

The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is Max, a four-year-old Labrador cross. Max is a stunning dog, who is in the prime of his life and just loves to get out and get active. He loves to play ball games, swimming, chasing birds – you name it! He can be nervous around new people, so any potential adopters would need to come and visit Max multiple times so he could get to know them. He wouldn’t like a house with children, as they are a bit too much for him, and he could potentially go to a home with another dog (Max likes the ladies!) If you think you could give lovely, energetic Max a loving home then please contact Dogs Trust on 01-8791000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50 and would love to show you around. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie


Gazette

18 Gazette 12 March 2015

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

it follows: an impressive (and creepy) horror

Trying to stay one step ahead of fate ALL good horror tales can tap into some primal fear within us. One of the earliest and most disturbing examples I can remember – enhanced, of course, by the fact that I was far too young to be watching it – comes from the movie, Child’s Play, which sees a possessed doll, Chucky, come alive to go on a murderous rampage. At one point in the film, the boy who owned the doll is trapped in a police cell, and from the

 Dave phillips

window, he can see a long stairwell leading up the side of the building where, clambering step by step, Chucky is making a slow but inevitable ascent towards the boy. This is the kind of expertly drawn out ten-

sion that lies at the heart of It Follows, writer and director David Robert Mitchell’s second film and his first foray into horror The film focuses on a small group of teenagers living in Detroit. As the eldest of the group, Jay (Maika Monroe) is a little ahead of the rest of the teens, she leaves them playing cards on the porch while she goes out on dates with her new boyfriend, Hugh. Not much seems awry

until Jay eventually spends the night with Hugh, after which he tells her he has passed something on to her. Something will follow her, he explains – he doesn’t know what it is, but it may take on different forms, mimicking people that are close to her – but it will follow ceaselessly, walking steadfastly toward her no matter where she goes. If Jay lets it get close enough to touch her, the results will be disastrous. She can pass the curse on by sleeping with someone else, but if they are killed, it passes back on down the line, pursuing whoever had it last. Not only has Mitchell conceived of the most terrifying STI imaginable, but he has also created a seemingly unique horror device that works incredibly effectively.

Seminal The effectiveness is of course connected to Mitchell’s story and style. Drawing on the seminal works of John Carpenter and Wes Craven, Mitchell’s film effectively captures that middleAmerican suburbia: all wood-panelled houses and neatly cut grass. The fact that the monster moves at a walking pace here is a genius stroke – it allows plenty of time for the characters to get away and develop. A car ride for an hour will buy several hours of respite. There’s a subtle tenderness between the group of friends, with some burgeoning romantic feelings thrown in for good measure, and granting

In It Follows, a cursed teen (Maika Monroe) attempts to stay one step ahead of a stalking doom, which is pursuing her relentlessly at a walking pace

the time to see all this emerge on screen allows the audience care about and bond with the characters – which makes it all the more terrifying at the times when “it” eventually catches up. Part full-blown horror, part horrific reflection on how our childhood must

end when we adopt the mantle of adulthood, It Follows is a stylish, very well executed – and at times, terrifying – affair that showcases ver y strong direction, coupled with an equally strong cast. It joins last year’s The Babadook as another

refreshing example that mainstream horror can offer much more than just loud shocks (though it has a couple of those) – but it can give you a story and characters that will stay with you when the nightmares eventually subside. Verdict: 8/10


12 March 2015 Gazette 19

Gazette

TRAVEL carlingford: ghan house is a grand getaway

A stately retreat with a welcome homely feel  mimi murray

GHAN House in Carlingford is the latest addition to Ireland’s Blue Book and is one of the smaller, more homely establishments on the list of great stately homes. A group of us stayed there to mark a special birthday recently. The house is an 18th century Georgian structure, built in 1727 by William Stannus – a politician from Dublin who was of Scottish descent.

In the main house, there are four rooms, and eight further bedrooms in a garden annex. Rooms are decorated in muted, traditional fabrics and colours, but are more state-of-the-art than their setting, with iPod docking stations. Carlingford reminds me of Kinsale – not only because of its picturesque streets and its focus on seafood in many eateries around the town, but also the influx of stag and hen parties to the area on

weekends. Following a brisk stroll around the town, we promptly made our way back to the warmth of the house and its open fires. It was early February, and everyone was in need of a hot toddy or something similar. Dinner is served in a small dining room, mostly decked out for couples and a group of raucous women who were determined to have fun. Starters included soft shell crab, scallops with

chorizo and lightly cured Irish salmon pastrami with wasabi creme fraiche and beetroot meringue. Mains include such fare as oven-baked fillet of cod marinated in mild Indian spices with curried yoghurt, crispy shredded duck with saffron and coconut broth, rice noodles and vegetables Julienne, sirloin of Cooley beef and 12 hourbraised beef cheek with carrot and cumin puree, chestnut mushrooms and rosemary jus.

Built in 1727, Ghan House offers an idyllic respite from the hustle and bustle of Dublin life, yet is conveniently located just an hour away from the capital

This is simple enough home cooking with nothing too theatrical going on, but everything was tasty and staff were friendly, and good with the wine recommendations. There is a lovely oldworld bar, and another drawing room with an

open fire where you can kick back after dinner. We made the decision to venture out and were lucky to catch a surprisingly good band in a packed local bar. The Guinness is good, and the company good, as they say, and we qui-

etly snuck in “home” at around 1am ... Next morning, and lots of tea and an Ulster fry sent us on our way back to Dublin, only an hour away. For further information on Ghan House, see www.ghanhouse.com.


Gazette

20 Gazette 12 March 2015

OUT&ABOUT Catriona Hanly Vintage pink short sleeve top €170, Salmon bow detail skirt with rose floral applique €265

Fiona Kerr Silver rectangle earrings €80

Yvonne Ryan Ruby stacking ring sterling silver and gold €395

Stonechat Leafdrop earrings €90

Juvi Jewellery Rose quartz and vermeil earrings €89 Jill Graham Gold leaf stud earrings €79

Stonechat Blueberry drop earrings €175

Fee G Quilted crop jacket €209.95, Quilted dress €239.95 (Outfit available in Kilkenny Shop) Fiona Kerr Silver gold-flecked bracelet €225

Stonechat Chocolate diamond Anvers ring €3,050

Irish for design Spring  laura webb

WITH St Patrick’s Day just around the corner, Gazette Style is feeling all patriotic – no, it’s not going to be a page full of green, white and orange; instead, we are focusing on Irish design. Irish designers are fast making a name for themselves at home and abroad and why shouldn’t they – with their quality and unique designing, it’s easy to see how Irish designs stand out from the rest. So, this week, we are saluting Irish designers ...

Catriona Hanly Blue and candy pink paisley top €295, Blue bow detail skirt with zip €260


12 March 2015 Gazette 21

Gazette

STYLE

Blush Make-up HD brow kit €24.95

Cocoa Brown 1 Hour Tan €7.99

Anneco Mineral Foundation €25.50

You’ll love this range of Irish-made natural make-up products  laura webb

CONTINUING on with our We Love Irish theme, beauty and skincare products from the great green isle are making a mark for themselves both at home and abroad. Anneco Natural Make-Up is Irish-made mineral makeup which has a great collection of long-lasting every-day makeup that is natural, ethical and kind to skin. Made from 100% pure mineral ingredients, their line includes loose powder foundation, concealers, blusher and bronzers, primer and mineral veil, which are all among the extensive high-quality Anneco makeup collection, developed in Ireland. Tan lovers everywhere are more than familiar with Cocoa Brown 1 Hour Tan by Marissa Carter, and its many other tanning products that have come down the line. Now, Cocoa Brown is going Stateside, having recently launched its brand in the US after Ricky’s NYC scooped it up for its 30 stores. For further information, see www.cocoabrown.ie. Blush Make-up and Nails was founded by award-winning make-up artist Nicola Walsh. Based in Clonmel, Co Tipperary, this range has everything needed for the perfect make-up look, from prep to finish. Products include HD Brow Compact, foundation, blusher and bronzer, mascara, lipstick and concealer. For further information, see www.blush.ie. Sligo brand VOYA is a family business built on seaweed which is harvested from the area and also supplies their own seaweed baths in the town. It grew from a very successful seaweed baths business in Strandhill, Co Sligo, on the wild Atlantic coast of Ireland, set up by Neil Walton. Products include sea-

weed soaps, essence oil, body oil and body buff. Blank Canvas Cosmetics is an online cosmetic brand founded in 2011 that is based in Ireland, bringing quality beauty products at an affordable price. Products include eyeliners, makeup brushes, airbrush blender sponges, as well as face and eye palettes. For further information, see www. blankcanvascosmetics.com. Kinvara Skincare, suitable for men and women, is based in Co Galway and uses plant-packed ingredients (93% from an edible food source) to produce really effective products that can help transform people’s skin. Products include cleansing products such as its cleansing face oil and moisturisers, and serums such as its Active Rosehip Day Cream and Rosehip Face Serum. Kinvara Skincare is available in more than 80 stockists across the country, and also online at www.kinvaraskincare. com. The Handmade Soap Company was founded in 2010 by Donagh Quigley and Gemma McGowan. This brand come a long way from being made in their cottage kitchen and is now found anywhere from Blarney Castle to Brazil. Products include bath salts, soaps, aftershave creams, body lotion and hand cream. For further information, see www. thehandmadesoapcompany.ie. So, when thinking about beauty and skincare products, why not try to think Irish and buy Irish? You might be surprised by the results!

Blush Make-up HD brow kit €24.95

Kinvara Skincare Absolute cleansing oil (100ml) €20; Rosehip face serum (30ml) €28; Rosehip day creme (60ml) €24

The Handmade Soap Company Witch hazel soap €6.95


22 Gazette 12 March 2015

C o m m e r c i a l F e at u r e

INTERIORS

HABITAT

ARGOS

FOR ARGOS

LAURA ASHLEY

NEXT

ame photo fr Enamel €33

Malmo seven-light pendant €137

5 x butterfly plaques €27

Franco wooden desk lamp €61

Polka dot cushio

n €16.79

side Blossom 5 table € 9.50 irror tray €34 Juliette heart m

paz cushion €75

to Francesca pale

shion €16

€34

Topsy elephant cu

table lamp

Butterfly garden trinket jar €27

Teal capsule

n €16.79

Geo knit th

row €48

Ashdown cushio

Nest of t

hree sid

e table

s €93.

50

Vixen knitted cush

Wing it to

Labrador tapestry

ion €16.79

Westend

SPRUCE up your house this spring by updating rooms with key trends and pieces coming through this spring/ summer season. Leave the dullness of winter behind and brighten up a room with vibrant colours, pale spring blues, geometric prints, metallics and coppers. Whether it’s a new fixture in the room, a colourful cushion or a unique

lamp, remodelling the home doesn’t have to break the bank. Here to help you update your room is Westend Shopping Park in Blanchardstown with its variety of best-loved lifestyle retailers such as Argos, Next, Laura Ashley and more. Exciting news from Westend Shopping Park is that Habitat is returning, with its collection for Argos

cushion €63

online and in-store from July. In advance of the range being launched in the Argos autumn/winter 2015 catalogue this coming July, products can be reserved online for free with instant pick-up from stores throughout the country. This week, The Gazette showcases just some of the many items available to buy from the many stores across Westend Shopping Park.


12 March 2015 GAZETTE 23

FOOD&DRINK

GAZETTE

OUT&ABOUT

RECIPECORNER Berry nice souffles THIS week, we have a delicious recipe for Raspberry Souffles with Vanilla Ice Cream (to serve four), courtesy of top chef Neven Maguire. Ingredients 400g (14oz) raspberries, plus extra to decorate 100g (4oz) caster sugar, plus extra to dust 1 vanilla pod, split in half and seeds scraped out 2 tbsp creme de cassis 1 tsp cornflour mixed with 1 tsp water 4 egg whites unsalted butter, to grease icing sugar, to dust vanilla ice cream, to serve

Le Spice

Indian restaurant

Main Street, Dundrum Set off Dundrum’s Main Street, Le Spice offers a comfortable setting to concentrate on its great range of

The Picky Eater OVER in Dundrum’s village centre, Le Spice Indian restaurant is the new kid on the block, and local fans of authentic Indian gourmet cuisine will be hoping it’s there to stay. Tucked away down the side lane beside AIB, this snug little venue provides an authentic Indian experience. Upon entering, you will be greeted by the unmistakable sounds of Ravi Shankar picking away on the sitar. This adds to the relaxing ambience of the restaurant, with its elegantly dimmed lights and curious paintings on the wall. After sitting down, we were served with a basket of flat, crispy bread and a dish with three separate chutneys to munch on while looking over the menu. This was followed by a bottle of fruity Spanish red wine from the impressive wine list. The menu offers a selection of high-class,

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

Each dish has a series of letters beside it, from ‘m’ for mild, to ‘hhh’ for very hot, so as not to catch customers unawares

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

gourmet dishes which are a far cry from the stereotypical onion bhajis and curry. The menu – which boasts duck, king prawns, and lamb, among other dishes – is very refined without being too pretentious to also offer French fries and a kiddies’ menu. Each dish has a series of letters beside it, from ‘m’ for mild, to ‘hhh’ for very hot, so as not to catch customers unawares. There are a variety of tempting starters, and The Picky Eater and companion both decided on the

spiced marinated Murgh Tikka, cooked in a clay oven (€5.45). This was served up in no time and was tastefully presented, liberal and delicious. For mains, I decided on Lamb Rogan Josh (€13.95) with egg-fried rice, while my companion chose Majadar Jhinga (€16.95), which is jumbo prawns cooked with fried onion and capsicum in a medium spicy sauce, a touch of Masalla sauce and coriander with eggfried rice (€3.20). Rice is served in a separate bowl to allow the customer to mix as they see fit. The prawns were almost big enough to rival lobsters, and my companion was very impressed with the sauce. The Rogan Josh did not fail to impress either, and not a scrap was left uneaten. If you’re looking for a quiet, comfortable evening of Indian cuisine, The Picky Eater recommends a visit to Le Spice.

Indian dishes

Two delicious dishes from Le Spice – tandoori jumbo prawns (top) and lamb ragan jush (above)

Conclusion SAY goodbye to predictable Indian fare, as Le Spice (at 9A Main Street, Dundrum, Dublin 14; tel 01 551 9000) serves up a menu with some delicious, well-thought-out dishes that cover all the basics, as well as some excellent gourmet meals, too.

Preparation • Place the raspberries in a wide heavy-based pan with the caster sugar. Mash down with a hand-held masher until they start to release their juices, then add the vanilla seeds and creme de cassis. • Allow to bubble on a high heat for about 10 minutes, stirring regularly, until you have achieved a jam-like consistency. • Pass the raspberry puree through a fine sieve into a bowl and then stir in the cornflour so that it thickens the puree slightly. Leave to cool. • When ready to cook the souffles, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F/gas mark 4). Generously grease 8 x 200ml (7fl oz) ramekins with butter and dust with caster sugar, shaking out any excess. • Whisk the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl until stiff, then fold into the thickened raspberry puree. Use to fill the prepared ramekins and level the tops with a palette knife. • Arrange the souffles on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until well risen and golden brown on top. Dust with icing sugar and arrange on plates with a separate ramekin of vanilla ice cream and a row of raspberries. Serve at once.


Gazette

24 Gazette 12 March 2015

OUT&ABOUT

HEALTH SHORTS Food safety workshop In Ireland it is estimated that about 10% of the population suffer from a food allergy or a food intolerance (including coeliac condition), the effects of which range from mild discomfort to life threatening. About Hygiene Ltd have developed a workshop Putting Diet and Food Safety on the Menu, the one-day workshop is designed to inform the public especially caterers, childcare providers, community and private care settings how easily you can determine the calorie content and put calories on menus. It gives practical guidelines for businesses serving people who may have a food allergy, food intolerance, coeliac condition or who may wish to avoid a particular food for other reasons. All staff working in a business offering food must receive basic food safety training before they start work and at regular intervals thereafter. This workshop may be used as refresher food safety training to increase staff knowledge and awareness. The workshop is on April 25. For more details contact 071 9645111. E-mail: train@ abouthygiene.ie. Website: www. abouthygiene.ie

Reader offer Studio Figura are offering a special price for Gazette readers. Three 60-minute sessions €50 or 12 60-minute sessions €180. Studio Figura concept consists of three steps: 1. Personal lymphatic massage programme using unique highest quality machines - roll shapers. 2. Personal nutrition plan based on a healthy, balanced eating approach, determined by individual body statistics and activity level. 3. Support with unique “in house” diet supplements Go Clean and Go Slim. More information from Inga Captari at 087 065 9185, 8 Cumberland Street, Dun Laoghaire

HEALTH

health: TV presenter on her exciting new business venture

Transform your diet, fitness and wellbeing  suzanne sheehy

Are you looking to lose weight, transform your fitness or kick start new habits? You can achieve this and rediscover the joy of exercising outdoors on west Cork’s tranquil Inish Beg Island through Ireland’s premiere bootcamp, Pure Results (sponsored by Ireland’s one-stop adventure shop, Great Outdoors). This is a six-night, sevenday bootcamp, which aims to transform your diet, fitness and wellbeing, all designed with your individual aspirations in mind. No stranger to exercise, and adventure it is of no surprise that this is Kathryn Thomas’s latest venture.

GazetteHealth spoke to the TV presenter about her exciting new business venture which she speaks so passionately about. “It has been an ambition of mine for the last few years. I have been a fan of wellness holidays firstly through No Frontiers when I did the travel show. “When that finished it was the kind of holiday I continued to do myself. A week when you’re on your own meeting a group of like-minded people and it is a really nice way to spend a holiday. “Pure Results bootcamp is all about the personal touch as it caters for all fitness levels – whether you’re a bride to be preparing for your big day, new mums looking to lose the baby

weight, to fitness fanatics searching for a new challenge. Age doesn’t mean a thing. Whether you’re 20 or 60 all are welcome.” A typical day involves a 6am start enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Inish Beg with stretches and light jogging. The weekly diet is wheat free, sugar-free and dairy free with no caffeine or alcohol. There is a mixture of high-intensity circuits with some low impact exercise. But fun is also a part of the week with informal team building such as battle stations, spider’s web, giant slalom. The aim is to “have you moving but you won’t even notice the calories burning”, says Thomas. Thomas has also learned a great deal from previous bootcamp holidays she has attended. And noted that one of the most important things missing was aftercare, which is necessary for continued success. Pure Results bootcamp (limited to 15-20 participants) has a specialised team of personal trainers, life coach, group leader and nutritional therapist guiding and supporting you through both your pre and post-camp care,

Specialised trainers will keep you on your toes and working hard at Pure Results Bootcamp

Kathryn Thomas: “Pure Results Bootcamp are all about the personal touch.”

preparing and motivating you all the way. You will receive a realistic two-week nutrition and exercise programme so you will continue to reach your lifestyle goals. “I don’t want people to just come, pay their money and never hear from us again. At the end of each week, a member of the Pure Results team will check in with you on your progress. So there will be weigh-ins, meal plans, exercise plans the whole lot for two weeks after you leave,” continues Thomas. This is also a great opportunity to experience one of the most picturesque parts of Ireland, according to Thomas, somewhere you can go hill walking, trail

running and have beach workouts. Thomas’s last word is: “There’s no such thing as I can’t, just put a challenge in front of yourself and you will achieve it. “It’s having the right support and believing in yourself that can help you accomplish any challenge you set.” The Pure Results Bootcamps will be r unning April 17 to June 2015. Costs are €1,199 pp (sharing), or €1,399 for single occupancy. Early bird offer of €999 for April 17 – for one week only. For more information you can email: info@pureresultsbootcamp.com or phone: +353 (0) 87 441 7090.


12 March 2015 gazette 25

Gazette

ARTS theatre: reimagining a Midsummer Night’s Dream at the abbey

Hit and miss at times – but ultimately it’s on target  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

IRISH theatre company Pan Pan, famous for its bold exploration of dramatic form which challenges traditional theatre, has not disappointed in its latest production – A Midsummer Night’s Dream – that is currently running in The Abbey Theatre. A Midsummer Night’s Dream is Shakespeare’s fanciful romp about the fairy world’s interference in the love lives of mortals. It is traditionally a play to celebrate spring, love, Queen Elizabeth 1 and – above all – youth. This tradition is utterly turned on its head in this new production, with all the main characters being elderly and their village, a retirement home. Hermia (played by Aine Ni Mhuiri) is the object of the affections of both Lysander (John Kavanagh) and Demetrius (Barry McGovern). Hermia loves Lysander, though her son, Egeus/Peter Quince (David Pearse), takes the parental role by insisting his mother marry Demetrius instead. Demetrius is beloved

Kane’s Grinding Water

Wonderful wooden art  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

THE launch of A Journey, a beautiful new show based on the career of Irish woodturner and artist Emmet Kane, was launched at the National Museum of Ireland in Collins Barracks recently. Curated by Jennifer Goff, the exhibition traces 27 years of the artist’s work in the medium of wood. Kane transforms his medium in most unusual, though always beautiful ways, to question our perceptions of wood and its place in the arts. Such a master is Kane that he can render wood into many magical forms, until some of his pieces take on the apparent qualities of glass and even metal.

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

‘This is a largely successful reinterpretation of Shakespeare and shows that Irish actors and audiences have a huge affinity with The Bard’ --------------------------------------------------------

by Helena (Gina Moxley), though her love is savagely unrequited. They all live together in the nursing home, which is run by Theseus/Oberon (Declan Conlon) and Hippolyta/ Titania (Fiona Bell). This pair double as the king and queen of the fairies, Oberon and Titania, who through the agency of a love potion, become inadvertently responsible for making both Demetrius and Lysander fall in love with Helena instead.

Enjoyable This Abbey production is largely enjoyable and the acting, in the main, is first-rate, which is an absolute prerequisite for making Shakespeare accessible and easily understood in a modern setting. The role of Lysander in particular is very well executed by Kavanagh,

and Moxley does a fine job playing the nonplussed and abused Helena. The fairy world scenes are not nearly as effective as the real-world scenes in the nursing home, which are often hilarious. Great comic use is made of the elderly scenario, with walking sticks doubling for swords and the like. The funniest part of the play is delivered by Peter Quince and his band of merry actors, who attempt to put on a diverting playlet for the fairy king and queen. Pearse (Quince) has strong comedic talent and each time he stepped on the stage, the audience seemed immediately poised for a good belly-laugh. Another of his comedy troupe, Andrew Bennet – who plays Nick Bottom, the unfortunate recipient

With their excellent turns, Lysander (John Kavanagh) and Hermia (Aine Ni Mhuiri) add to what is already a highly accomplished cast

of an ass’s head – is very engaging and full of fun in the part. Pan Pan always throws in something unexpected in its productions and is very tuned into the zeitgeist of modern life. A wonderful example of this was a physical fight between Hermia and Helena. The two repeated the same aggressive movements over and over, creating the image of a very funny “living gif” animation.

Successful All told, though a bit hit and miss at times, this is a successful reinterpretation of Shakespeare

Hermia and Lysander with Demetrius (Barry McGovern) and Helena (Gina Moxley)

and shows, above all, that Irish actors and audiences have a huge affinity with The Bard. Famous for the line: The course of true love never did run smooth, the play, though largely a fantastic romp, really does explore how arbitrary and often fickle love can be. A Midsummer Night’s

Dream runs at The Abbey until March 28 and tickets, available from the Abbey box office at www. abbeytheatre.ie, range from €13 to €40. T he play lasts for around two and a half hours, and begins at 7.30pm, from Monday to Saturday, with matinees at 2pm on Wednesday and Saturday.

Remarkable The exhibition explores Kane’s remarkable journey of development as a self-taught artist and woodturner from 1988 through to the present day, and features a huge array of his work, from functional vessels and bowls, wall hangings, artistic pieces (both large and small) and recent small-scale works. A Journey runs at the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks until June 14.


26 dublin city gazette 12 March 2015

dublin cityCLASSIFIEDS ARCHITECTURE

LANDSCAPING

PUPPIES

planning Notice Dublin City Council

Thomas and Mary Glover are applying for permission for retention of the existing timber fence panels on the Eastern garden boundary to the front of the dwelling and of the existing timber panel fencing on the Eastern boundary to the side and rear of dwelling at 384 Collinswood, Collins Avenue, Beaumont, Dublin 9. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Dublin City Council, Planning Department, Block 4, Ground Floor, Civic Offices, Wood Quay, Dublin 8 during its public opening hours (9.00a.m.- 4.30p.m.). A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee (â‚Ź20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

'VMMZ JOTVSFE 'VMMZ SFHJTUFSFE

FOR A FREE ESTIMATE CALL MICHAEL NOW ON 087 703 1121

DRIVEWAYS, PATIOS AND FOR ALL YOUR PAVING NEEDS

DENTAL

$07&3*/( %6#-*/ 463306/%*/( "3&"4 & NBJM JOGP!BDBEFNZQBWJOH JF 8FC XXX BDBEFNZQBWJOH JF

5IF $PUUBHF -PXFS (SFFOIJMMT 3PBE %VCMJO

5 .

23330

planning Notice Dublin City Council

DVD TRANSFERS ďƒźVideo & Camera Tapes ďƒźCineFilms ďƒźPhotos & Slides converted to DVD ďƒźMusic & Titles added Tel: 01-2807838 / 087 9132265 alleventsvideo@eircom.net

IMPROVEMENTS

planning Notice

WINDOWS

413*/(

4"-& GET UP TO

35% OFF

WINDOWS AND DOORS FITTED IN MARCH UPVC ENERGY ‘A-RATED’ WINDOWS AND DOORS C ONTACT L ORRAINE ON 086 838 5014

Dublin City Council

Permission is sought to construct a two storey detached two bedroom house with front driveway, to side of existing house, at 4 Coolrua Drive, Beaumont , Dublin 9 for Suzanne Burke The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Dublin City Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. 23313

FOLLOW US TODAY ON OUR SOCIAL NETWORK

planning Notice Dublin City Council

We, Sandra & John Ginnelly, seek planning permission for construction of first floor dormer extension at rear to provide new Study and Bedroom to include roof alterations, raising existing ridge height and repositioning ex. chimney stack plus provision of 2 No. conservation rooflights on front roof slope. Work includes all associated site works at No.7, Hope Street, Dublin 4. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Dublin City Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the

prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. 23384

Planning Permission is sought by Mr. & Mrs Beirne for the demolition of their existing rear ground floor extension and the construction of a New Rear, Ground, First and Attic extension, Internal alterations and New Entrance Door, with ancillary site works all to number 5 Dartmouth Terrace, Ranelagh, Dublin 6. This application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, during the public opening hours of 9.00a.m. – 4:30p.m. Monday to Friday at the offices of Dublin City Council, Planning Department, Block 4, Ground Floor, Civic Offices, Wood Quay, Dublin 8. Alternatively it may be viewed at the planning section of the council website w w w.dublincity.ie A submission or observation in relation to this application may be made in writing to Dublin City Council on payment of a fee, presently ₏20.00 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt of this application by Dublin City Council. All submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or, may refuse to grant permission. 23383


12 March 2015 dublin city gazette 27

dublin cityCLASSIFIEDS recruitment

IMPROVEMENTS

ROOFING

Registered & Insured Roofing Contractor Flat Roofing Specialists Industrial, Residential & Commercial SHOWROOMS MASONRY

BRICK BLOCK AND STONE ▪ Garden Walls ▪ Brick piers ▪ Arches ▪ sheds ▪ Patios & paving ▪ Driveways & paths ▪ Concrete ▪ Repair to damaged masonry ▪ Stone walling & paving Call Dave 0872917647

HERBALIFE WELLNESS COACHES WANTED FULL OR PART TIME WORK FROM HOME FLEXIBLE HOURS ALL TRAINING PROVIDED ONGOING SUPPORT Contact Darren 0861263949

PART-TIME CARETAKER for North Bay Educate Together National School from May 2015

DUTIES: Maintenance & Repair of all aspects of the building and grounds. Applications to The Chairperson, North Bay ETNS, Greendale Avenue by March 27th 2015.

• Felt work • Slating & Tiling Organic Seedom • Guttering Fascia & Sofits • STUART MASTERSON P:01 4439398 M: M:087 - 7712463, 086 - 2006217 E:mastersonroofing@gmail.com stuartjmasterson@hotmail.com W:www.mastersonroofing.ie


Gazette

28 Gazette 12 March 2015

SPORT

FastSport National’s Finn Lynch wins isa young sailor: NATIONAL Yacht Club’s Finn Lynch landed the 2014 ISA Young Sailor of the Year at their annual awards ceremony last Friday at the Royal College of Surgeons. During the year, Lynch brought the Under-19 Laser Standard world title back to his home club of National Yacht Club in Dun Laoghaire. Speaking about the award, Lynch offered the following advice to other aspiring young sailors: “If you want to be competitive my advice would be to work harder than everyone else. “Otherwise to just enjoy sailing is very important I think.” Anthony O’Leary won the Sailor of the Year title for his exploits in winning the 2014 Commodore’s Cup along with his consistent pursuit of sailing excellence, claiming the title by a massive margin of 174 points last June.

hockey: south dublin clubs win big in leinster’s division one race

Glory for Hermes and Town  sport@dublingazette.com

BOROUGH clubs Hermes and Monkstown both won their respective Leinster Division One leagues last week and are already on the search for more silverware.

On the women’s side Booterstown’s Hermes, a slow start meant that they were scarcely in the pre-competition thoughts for the title but they managed to win a thrilling five-horse race on the final day of the

season with a 2-0 win over Loreto. Aisling Na ughton scored one in each half, the clincher coming two minutes from time, to secure the title and coach Rudi Wortmann said an early season

Monkstown won the men’s Leinster league in comfortable fashion

Hermes star striker Aisling Naughton. Picture: Adrian Boehm

“wake-up call” provided the impetus for their first title since 2011. He admits “preseason wasn’t that good” while their 1-0 loss Pembroke served as a powerful warning of the close-knit battle ahead for a new look panel. Wortmann took on the side for a second spell having won most of the tophies in the game during his first stint almost a decade ago. The Dutchman took on a side that had lost Irish internationals Lisa Jacob to the Irish rugby sevens game with Audrey O’Flynn following that route early in the campaign. With four other squad members moving on, they needed additions

and they came in the form of Naughton – who ended as the league’s top scorer – and Sinead Loughran were late additions who have proven an irresistable force. “Our key players are basically the whole team. I’m not sure if we could have done without any of the players. I know it sounds trite but that is my genuine feeling,” he said of his panel. Now, his side is looking to add more trophies to the league title with, incredibly, another three potentially in the offing. First up is the Jacqui Potter Cup final on St Patrick’s Day against Railway Union – the fourth meeting of the sides this term. The Irish Senior Cup

final follows on March 29 while an Irish Hockey League semi-final against Loreto is also on the horizon for the Booterstown club. For Monkstown’s men, their route was much simpler as they ended the campaign with an eight-point advantage over their nearest rivals. They clinched the title ahead of their second last league game – an 8-0 win over Rathgar – as Pembroke, the only side to beat them over the course of the Leinster league, fell to Corinthian 3-2 to gift-wrap the trophy. Town will now be focusing on the Irish Hockey League and trying to retain the title for a third successive year.

Griggs strikes late as Lansdowne down Constitution  sport@dublingazette.com

Lansdowne are eight points clear at the top of rugby’s Ulster Bank Division 1A

LEINSTER A scrum half Adam Griggs was sprung from the bench to be Lansdowne’s hero as his 79th minute try earned a 27-20 bonus point win at the expense of Cork Constitution in the Ulster Bank League Division 1A. The disappointment of the defeat lifted slightly for Cork Con when they learned that UCD and Ballynahinch had both lost, meaning that the Leesiders’ losing bonus point was enough to move them back into the top

four. The afternoon had begun brightly for Cork Con as Munster prospect Darren Sweetnam touched down for the second week running. Lansdowne’s patience was tested until Conor McKeon’s neat offload played in hooker Tyrone Moran for an unconverted try in the right corner. An opportunist try by Cork Con out-half Tomas Quinlan restored his side’s five-point advantage, but a late surge from Lansdowne made it 12-10 at the break as Tom Daly’s purpose-

ful break was finished off by his centre partner Tom Farrell and McKeon converted. McKeon and Quinlan swapped penalties early on the resumption before Lansdowne, playing with increased confidence, swept through for their third try - a memorable run on the right wing saw Farrell break free to complete his brace in the 53rd minute. McKeon missed the conversion, though, and with 13 minutes remaining a Lansdowne handling error allowed the speedy Sweetnam to latch on to

the loose ball and race in under the posts. Quinlan’s levelling conversion set up a grandstand finish. However, Lansdowne produced the goods when it mattered most as Griggs ghosted through a minute from the end to score the game’s decisive try and give the headquarters club their 13th win in 16 games. Elsewhere, centre Stephen O’Neill had a day to remember, scoring three of Terenure College’s six tries as they won their Dublin 6W derby with St Mary’s College on a 41-24 scoreline.


12 March 2015 Gazette 29

Gazette

Flying Flynn looking to leap to Olympics Coolmine athlete aiming to break a 27-year wait for an Irish steeplechase Olympian as he plots an ambitious course to Rio following successful spell at the University of Arkansas  stephen findlater

DAVID Flynn is plotting a course to become Ireland’s 3,000m steeplechase Olympian in 27 years. It is now 30 years since Brendan Quinn set the national record, one of the longest standing of all Irish athletics records. Quinn was also the last Irish man to qualify for the Games, coming 11th in his semi-final in Seoul in 1988. Despite Ireland having a decorated record in distance running, it is a race that has not really featured to any great degree but Coolmine’s Flynn is ambitious to see this change. “Irish athletes are very tough and can grit out their events,” he told GazetteSport this week. “The steeplechase is an event you need to be tough in.” An accomplished runner at schools, he

impressed enough amid competitive fields with John Coghlan, Michael Mulhare and Craig Murphy to earn a scholarship to university in Colorado before switching to division one college University of Arkansas. While there, he won the Irish Olympic trials in steeplechase in 2012 but missed out on the qualifying standard. Three years on, he is now looking to make another bid with a wealth of knowledge from the American system under his belt. He returned to Ireland in November after an impressive college career, finishing in the top five three times at the hugely competitive Mount Sac races. And he told GazetteSport that the experience will help him immeasurably. “I learned so much there that you wouldn’t realise. You learn a lot

about the little things and so I think I have come back a better, maybe more cautious, athlete. “It’s something unique to America. I coach a few athletes at Clonliffe now in the steeplechase; there’s basic things that some of them don’t know and it’s why the Irish record has stood for years. “The usual thing is to train you like a 5km person but the technique is kind of old school. Something needs to change and there are some – under Chris Jones, who coaches Fionnuala Britton – who are trying to get things to change.” Getting top level experience in the event is tough for Irish-based athletes with high quality fields and fast conditions tough to come by. Indeed, Flynn has recently been in Portugal for a month to lay his base level for the year ahead while all his fastest times have come at high

Coolmine man David Flynn, centre, last week with his Clonliffe club mates following their national inter-club cross country team title

altitude in warm conditions in the US. In Ireland, he has been running 90 miles a week while he helped his club Clonliffe Harriers to the national inter-club team title last week and will run in the Antrim international race next week. All this is to prepare for

think people realise the training that has to go into it. It’s easy to say to someone you run 90 miles a week and they think it takes no time to drive that in their car and you laugh about it. “It’s so different in America. After college, I was potentially going to

ken’sDiary

Cycling bug kicking in for Egan and the Laurels crew Olympic silver medallist and Irish boxing legend Ken Egan is to take part in this year’s Laurels Charity Crew Cycle from Galway to Dublin on April 19. In the run-up to the event, Egan has partnered with Gazette Sport to document his preparation for the big day, and here is his latest report from the road.

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

Irish athletes are very tough and can grit out events. You need to be tough for the steeplechase - David Flynn

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

the track season’s inception in April with the target to run at least three top level steeplechases – along with good 5km and 1,500m times – in the summer to put him in the frame for the Olympics in 2015. Flynn says, though, that while these are the best laid plans, an Olympic campaign is a difficult programme to balance. “It is expensive; if you want to run a fast steeplechase, especially an Olympic qualifying time, you need to have the perfect conditions, running in a nice climate at 7pm. “I ran all my personal bests in California so you can see you need a similar environment. You need a pace-maker and all the splits to be even. So, to get all those things in place, it can be expensive. “In addition, I don’t

turn semi-professional and move to Austin, Texas with a group called Rogue Running but that fell through. That’s when I got into coaching. “Here, there aren’t really groups that would fund things so you are looking to other avenues to help support your travel fees. To go for the Olympics, you need to be training full-time, paying for your gym – I go to yoga twice a week – and you go through shoes pretty much each month.” Given he has only recently returned to Ireland, he has missed some of the funding rounds through the regular channels but Flynn says he is confident, that if he can get a leg up from local sponsors, he can really start making waves in his Olympic pursuit.

THIS week, I decided to leave the 8am start to the professionals and landed down at the Laurels for 9.45am, feeling well rested and ready for what was in store. The word on the street was we were doing 90km and it was a flat journey, music to my ears. The numbers were good again with about 30 bodies in action. I started close to the front and decided to stay there for as long as possible which was my own little mental test. They say you should get to know your bike; I have borrowed mine for this Laurels Charity Cycle but I really have the cycling bug and will definitely invest in a good bike after the event in April. We took off again from Clondalkin to the Pheonix Park which was taken over by some charity run so we had to play second fiddle to the runners which is fair enough. As such, we soldiered on out toward Blanchardstown on up through Maynooth and onto Enfield before doing a full 180 degree at that roundabout before coming back towards Kilcock. There we stopped for a well-earned scone and coffee. From there, we had the back of the journey broken and proceeded back towards home, running down through Celbridge and onto Newcastle. Every time I climb onto my bike, I know it ain’t easy but it is for such a worthy cause and think how lucky I am to be able to jump on a bike and cycle 90km. Your health is your wealth and all I can do is try as best as I can to raise awareness and money for this wonderful charity which the Laurels are such an important part of.


Gazette

30 dublin city gazette 12 March 2015

SPORT

FastSport

Basketball: four titles from four finals for mercy

Kavanagh up for FAI player of the year gong FINGLAS’S Cian Kavanagh has been included on the shortlist for the FAI Schools player of the year award at the Three FAI international football awards which will take place on March 22. The Patrician College man is up against Ryan Manning and Jamie McGrath for the award as his hard work and determination earned him a place on the starting 11 in all four competitive Shield fixtures for the Republic of Ireland representative side. He is currently a midfielder at Shamrock Rovers FC. Meanwhile, two Sheriff YC players were named in a three-man shortlist for the junior international player of the year award. Last year’s runner-up Darren Dunne is joined by his teammate on the inner-city AUL giants, Kevin Lynch. Dunne has been an ever present in Gerry Smith’s international squads over the past number of years and his form for club and country have led to many labelling him as the finest midfielder in the country at junior level. Lynch on the other hand, only joined the international set-up back in August, but his excellent performances in friendly games ensured his place on Smith’s squad for the Regions Cup qualifying tournament in Hungary. The Dublin duo will face off against Jimmy Carr, from Tipperary’s St Michaels AFC.

Kevin’s through to SFAI Under15 semi-finals ST KEVIN’S Boys Under-15s booked their place in the last four of the country last weekend with a comprehensive 5-0 victory over Lucan United in the SFAI Cup quarter-finals. Kevin’s welcomed their league rivals to Shanowen Road on Saturday afternoon and went about their

business in abrupt manner, with Jack Ryan opening the scoring after 20 minutes. Gavin Kilkenny was the star man on the day, bagging himself a hat-trick, while Lido Lodeta scored the game’s other goal. Kevin’s will now face either Limerick FC, or St Joseph’s Boys in the semi-final, with themselves and the latter already involved in a close title race for the DDSL Under-15 Premier Division.

The DCU Mercy Under-18 winning side last weekend

DCU sweep the boards  sport@dublingazette.com

DCU Mercy had little of it for their opponents last weekend as they took home four titles from four finals at the Dublin Cup in Oblate Hall, Inchicore. Mercy went into the weekend with finals to play at Under-15, 16, 18 and senior level, and were ruthless in their quest for dominance, coming out on top on each occasion. Early Saturday afternoon marked the beginning of the trophy hunt, with Mercy’s Under-16 side facing the Liffey

Celtics. In an extremely tight final, DCU trailed for long periods but a late flurry for points as well as some tactical expertise from ex-Irish international Damien Sealy caused his side to just get in front at the end and finish victorious with a score of 40-37. Up next was Joan Black’s Under-18 side who took on Templeogue. Mercy star ted brilliantly and went in with a comfortable lead at half-time. A late surge from Templeogue in the final two quarters looked a cause

business houses Keogh and Melia win out at ALSAA race neil O’Rourke, pictured, ended up in fifth place at last Saturday’s Business Houses Athletics Association race in ALSAA, near Dublin airport, at a well-run event. Eric Keogh was the ultimate winner of the men’s race with Michael MacMahon second on the five-mile course. On the women’s side, Adrianna Melia led home the field with Sharon Grant coming second and Paula Grant third in a race over two miles.

for concern but DCU held on to win their second cup of the day with a score of 45-37. The club’s third game o n S a t u r d ay w a s a chance for their Under15 side to do the business and, like their club mates before them, stepped right up the plate. S e a n I n g l e ’s s i d e faced Liffey Celtics in the second meeting between the clubs and the young coach’s side blitzed away from the off which Celtic struggled to deal with. Notable performances from Maeve O’Shea

and Bronagh Power Cassidy proved key in the 51-24 win that Mercy never looked like losing. A side note of the weekend was that it was Pink weekend, raising funds for the Marie Keating Foundation. It saw all participants from Under-12 to senior ladies wear pink in some form or other to show their support for the cause. Their women’s seniors Sunday afternoon game against Tridents was the curtain closer of the event and ultimately wrapped up a weekend

to remember for the Glasnevin outfit. This DCU side, who are actually the club’s Under-20 team, faced a Tridents outfit which contained a number of ex-Superleague players, and initially struggled. But a combination of hard work going into second quar ter and some excellent coaching from the team of Caroline Stewart and Frank Tracey drew them back into contention. Mercy clawed back a 14-point deficit to go onto win by five and go home with four Dublin titles.


12 March 2015 DUBLIN CITY gazette 31

Gazette

St Dominic’s annex senior C All-Ireland  sport@dublingazette.com

ST DOMINIC’S College claimed the senior C AllIreland schools camogie title last Saturday when they got the better of Sacred Heart Secondary School Clonakilty by 2-6 to 1-6 in Nenagh. Tw o s e c o n d - h a l f goals from Ciara Glynn secured the honours for

the Cabra team, with the second coming in the closing minutes to deny the West Cork crew, who had hit the front thanks to Claire Sexton’s 50th minute goal. It caps an excellent season for the school who won the Dublin senior crown with a dramatic final win in January in Ringsend against a strong

Lucan outfit. There was no such luck for the other Dublin schools, however, as Colaiste na Phiarsaigh Glanmire annexed the D title after another close final, coming out on the right side of a 1-9 to 1-7 scoreline against Rathfarnham’s Loreto Beaufort in the opening game of a Nenagh double-

header. Our Lady of Mercy, Waterford accounted for St MacDara’s Community College Dublin by 2-8 to 1-3 in Ballykelly at junior D level. Colaiste Iosagain represent Dublin in the junior C decider this weekend when they meet Doon’s Colaiste na Trinoide on Saturday.

clubGAA

camogie: dublin make it two wins from two

Brigid’s off the mark as Cuala claim first AFL1 win

Siobhan Kehoe played a key role in Dublin’s second win in succession

O’Brien revolution continues apace national league

Clare 1-11 Dublin 1-13  sport@dublingazette.com

DUBLIN continued the Shane O’Brien era with a magnificent win over last year’s league finalists Clare in Clonlara by 1-13 to 1-11, making it two wins out of two thus far in group two of the national league. T he Dubs opened their campaign with a home win over Derry but this was a significant step up on that, thanks to the excellence of Ali Twomey, Louise O’Hara, Alison Maguire

and goalkeeper, Sile Nic Coitir. The teams went in at the break on 0-6 apiece, with the only score from play coming from Clare’s Fiona Lafferty. Chloe Morey completed the home team’s tally from frees, while Twomey registered all Dublin’s scores from placed balls. The defining moment came right at the start of the second half. Dublin won a free at the throw in and O’Hara doubled on Twomey’s delivery spectacularly to send the sliotar to the corner of the Clare net. Dublin defended res-

olutely thereafter and were five points ahead when Morey goaled from a 25m free on the right in the 59th minute. But that was the closest that they got as Dublin were always at least two points clear with O’Hara running up 1-2 while Twomey clipped another couple of frees Siobhan Kehoe scored 0-2 from play when moved from mid-field to full forward. She was first to every ball while Aisling Maher scored other point. A l i M a g u i r e ve r y strong centre back and Rose Collins in full back.

But both wing backs and corner backs played so well with Catriona Power a strong force on her return. Aine Fanning was brilliant at centre forward. She is great at winning ball, causing confusion and laying the ball off to other forwards. Nic Coitir was solid in goals making some great saves to copper-fasten what was a second uplifting result for the side. Dublin will next face Cork on Sunday in Parnell Park in upbeat mood in the battle of the two teams with two wins under their belt.

ST BRIGID’S senior footballers claimed their opening AFL1 league points of the season following a 2-10 to 2-6 victory over St Maur’s in Rush on Sunday morning. Played in blustery conditions throughout, the visitors started the game with wind advantage and scored 1-3 without reply inside the opening five minutes. Brigid’s goal came courtesy of corner forward Lorcan McCarthy who finished to the net following fine approach play from Dublin seniors Philly Ryan and Paddy Andrews. Leading 1-6 to 0-3 just before half time, Brigid’s extended their advantage further from the penalty spot. Andrews was hauled down when through on goal and goalkeeper Shane Supple gleefully dispatched from 11m to give Brigid’s a nine-point half time cushion. Maur’s responded positively in the second half and opened with an early goal following a mix up in the Brigids back line. But Brigid’s response was clinical with three good scores all from play. Collie Carr, Cathal Doyle and Dublin Under-21 star Jack Mullins all kicked over fine scores with Mullins point the pick of the bunch from play. They duly held on despite a late 1-3 salvo from their Rush opponents. Elsewhere, Cuala beat Parnell’s 0-13 to 1-7 with Luke Keating doing the majority of the scoring while Conor Mullally played a key role at centre half-back. There was two points in the tie going down the final stretch and pushed for a goal but the Dalkey side held out to record their first ever win in AFL1. Next on the list for them is a tie against Ballymun Kickhams who have won two games from two, one of just two sides to do so along with St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh. Ballymun were big 1-19 to 0-7 winners over Templeogue Synge Street. Plunkett’s saw off Thomas Davis 2-12 to 2-5 with Alan Brogan lining out in the number 11 jersey.

Got a story? we want to know!

Call our sport team on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 3

or email sport@dublingazette.com


GazetteSPORT all of your DUBLIN CITY sports coverage from page 28-31

march 12, 2015

lands ahoy: Dublin 4 club continuing to set the pace flynn’s Olympic hurdle: Dubliner aiming to end Irish in Ulster Bank Division 1A with victory in Cork P28 wait for steeplechase star P29

Kelly makes early Bohs impression  nathan kelly

sport@dublingazette.com

NEW signing Dean Kelly took just 15 minutes to endear himself to the Bohemians’ faithful as he broke his Bohs’ duck on debut last Saturday on the opening day of the SSE Airtricity Premier Division season. At that stage the Phibsboro side were a goal up thanks to Adam Evans’ first minute goal and eventually ran out 3-0 winners with Lorcan Fitzgerald scoring the third. Bohs followed up that win with another 3-0 victory on Tuesday, this time in the EA Sports Cup, at home to new manager Keith Long’s former employers Athlone Town.

Kelly was rested for the cup game but watched his new team from the stands, and afterwards spoke to GazetteSport about their start to the season and his time at the northside club so far. “The lads played very well to be fair; a few of our young lads were playing with a couple of senior players rested and they did really well,” he said. “To get into the next round and keep us in the cup, it was a good night’s work and it’s been a great couple of days.” Scoring on debut is always great for a striker, but comes almost second nature to the 29-year-old: “I seem to do well on my debut with

every team I play with to be honest. I’ve scored on most of my debuts but it did mean that little bit more on Saturday being from the Cabra area.” The former Crumlin United and Oldham striker has now played for the four major Dublin sides in League of Ireland, having donned the shirts of Pat’s, Rovers, Shels and now the red and black of Bohemians. “It’s been great. The trainings been great, Keith [Long] has been great. The preseason went really well in my opinion and now the season’s started well. “On a personal note I’ve enjoyed how he’s worked with me, like

in training he makes sure you’re doing everything right and on the ball. He keeps an eye on everyone individually as well as the group so his man-management in particular has really impressed me.” With a sixth placed finish and League Cup semi-final spot claimed last season, Kelly was asked before our conversation finished about targets for the club this season, he replied: “The management haven’t said too much about final league places or anything like that yet but I would say our aim is to definitely finish higher than last year.” Up next for Bohs is the visit of Galway United this Friday in the Premier Division.

Bohemians’ Dean Kelly made a great start with his new club


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.