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A Little Chaos: Alan Rickman talks to us about his latest movie role Page 14

State set to buy Moore St landmark  Keith Bellew

Find us on

April 16 - 22, 2015

Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Heather Humphreys recently announced that the Government would acquire the national monument at 14-17 Moore Street.

A Department spokesperson said the monument would now come into public ownership, thus securing the landmark’s long-term future. A centre will be developed on-site and will be run as a public facility with visitor access. It will

aim to enhance and complement the 1916 facility being developed in the GPO. Minister Humphreys is set to bring further proposals for an onsite 1916 commemorative centre to Government shortly.

“This puts an end to the uncertainty surrounding the future of these buildings and ensures they will be accessible to all who are interested in the history of the 1916 Rising,” she said.

Full Story on Page 6

Duvet or duvet not: Goal urges firms to give a day for charity helping Irish charity Goal had

model Lynn Kelly all worn out as she took to her bed on South King Street Dublin at the launch of Goal Duvet Day. The charity is urging companies to give their hard-working employees a lie-in and day of relaxation, while contributing to a worthy

cause. Companies who sign up to the fundraiser – Goal Duvet Day – will see them raffling tickets to employees, with the winning staff member receiving an extra day’s annual leave from work. For more information go to www.goalglobal.org Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland

2 dublin city gazette 16 April 2015

council O’Devaney Gardens plan ‘won’t fix housing crisis’

Flats complex ruled out for homeless C OU N C I L L OR S i n Dublin City voted to scrap plans to use rundown flats in O’Devaney Gardens, due to be demolished, to house up to 400 homeless families over several years.

The O’Devaney Gardens project was proposed as a temporary option for homeless families by Environment Minister Alan Kelly at a summit on homelessness last December,

 Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@dublingazette.com

following the death of homeless man Jonathan Corrie on a Dublin street.

However, 43 Dublin City councillors voted in favour of a

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

motion by Lord Mayor Christy Burke (Ind) not to proceed with the refurbishment plan for O’Devaney Gardens.

Minister Kelly proposed initially revamping 64 flats at a cost of €4.72m for use by homeless families over a five-year period, after which the flats would be demolished to make way for a full regeneration of the complex.

The temporary scheme included a total of 128 units in O’Devaney Gardens that would be refurbished over time.

The Lord Mayor said the project was a waste of taxpayers’ money as it was short-term and

not sustainable – a view shared by most councillors at a meeting this week.

However, Cllr Mannix Flynn was opposed to scrapping the project, calling it a “squandered opportunity” for families currently living in hotels.

He said the plan was scrapped in favour of “grandiose politics”. Cllr Flynn said he would now liaise with the homeless families concerned and encourage them to lobby their politicians to reinstate the proposal.

Cllr Flynn said the council debate on O’Devaney Gardens was “deeply f lawed

Dublin City councillors voted to scrap plans to use run-down flats in O’Devaney Gardens to house up to 400 homeless families. Picture: Eoin O’Mahony

because it was totally politicised”. He said the welfare of these families and children was at stake and many children experienced psychological problems because of their living situation.

Dick Brady, council

head of housing, said a refurbished O’Devaney Gardens would provide homeless families with more appropriate accommodation to hotels.

Former O’Devaney Gardens resident Cllr Janice Boylan (SF) said:

“A refurbishment would only allow for the units to be brought back up to an acceptable standard. It would not fix the social problems there at the moment and it would certainly not fix the housing and homeless crisis.”

16 April 2015 dublin city gazette 3

transport

development: changes in invoicing result in reduction of debts

Peak time Darts to increase

Levies owed to council drop 56%  Ian Begley

DEVELOPMENT levies owed to Dublin City Council have dropped by 56% since 2012.

Last year the council was owed €17.8m in development levies which was a significant drop from when figures stood at €43.6m in 2012 – a difference of 56%.

According to the council, the main reason for the reduction was that in the past invoices were raised for the full development.

However this practice ceased in 2014 and now invoices are only raised on the portion for which a commencement notice is received.

The actual amount collected for the council in

2014 stood at €11m compared to €8.9m in 2012.

A council spokesperson said: “Dublin City Council have their own system [managing development levies] and other local authorities have theirs.

“When the council becomes aware that a development has commenced primarily though not exclusively through the submission of a commencement notice an invoice is issued for the quantum of development specified in the commencement notice.

“The collection of development levies is a very fluid process and we constantly monitor accounts.

If an account slips into arrears we engage with the person/company involved

to come to some arrangement to ensure that there is a payment plan put in place.

“Levies were raised for the full development so if they were not paid but were still due to reflect the ‘as built’ situation they would accumulate each year remaining outstanding. The figure for 2015 reflects the current situation for outstanding levies: €18,933,226.66 [still due to end February],” said the spokesperson.

In response Cllr Tina McVeigh (PBP) said that while there were more planning applications and a bit more development, “if you look at the numbers who need housing you will see that we are in a housing crisis”.

Shop ’til you drop: Helping Bestseller help sick children on Give-A-Day pictured on the recent Give-A-Day fundraising initiative are Karen Brophy, of Vila; Nicole Reed, Only; Tiago OVc, Jack & Jones; Ewa Matyja, Only; and Louise Hart, Vera Moda. Bestseller, the international company, arranged the worldwide charity campaign on April 10. CMRF Crumlin, which raises funds for Our Lady’s Children Hospital Crumlin and the National Children’s Research Centre, was chosen as the recipient for the Irish campaign. In total 50% of the net turnover generated in Ireland that day will go towards improvements in the radiology department at Crumlin. The rest will be donated to a global charity of Bestseller’s choice. Picture: Stephen Fleming

GOOD news for Irish Rail customers as the company announces greater frequency of Dart trains during the rush hour.

Currently, trains run every 15 minutes during busy periods. Soon passengers will not have to wait longer than 10 minutes for a train during peak times.

Deputy Terence Flanagan (Renua) was delighted by the announcement as constituents had expressed their frustration at having to wait a long time for a train to arrive, particularly during the evening commute.

He also said it was good news that passenger numbers on the Dart service have increased this year, in spite of ticket price increases.

4 dublin city gazette 16 April 2015

don’sdublin

talks Call for all sides to return to table Business: ‘wants to help’

The story of Hugh and his unique art gallery The Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane, usually referred to as the Hugh Lane, is unique in that it is the first known public gallery for modern art anywhere in the world. This is due to the work of Hugh Lane who was a successful London art dealer and collector. He had a particular passion for works of the Impressionists, and there are a number of fine paintings by such artists as Renoir, Pissarro and Manet on show.

Lane was born in Cork in 1875 and spent most of his early life in Cornwall. After school, he began an apprenticeship as a painting restorer, but soon started dealing in paintings. Although he lived in London, he often returned to Ireland and stayed with his aunt, Lady Augusta Gregory (a founder of the Abbey Theatre), and was familiar with Irish art which he praised and promoted. As such, he decided that Ireland needed a gallery to show these works and he opened the Municipal Gallery of Modern Art in January 1908.

It was set up in temporary premises on Harcourt Street, and Lane hoped Dublin Corporation would take over the running of the gallery.

This, however, did not happen, as the corporation was uncertain about the financial viability of such an enterprise.

Sadly, Lane was among almost 1,200 who died when the RMS Lusitania was torpedoed on May 7, 1915 off his native Cork, and never lived to see “his” gallery.

Following his untimely death, many years were spent arguing about the 39 paintings in the Lane Bequest. It was not until 1959, more than 40 years after Lane’s death, that a deal was struck between the Irish and British governments for the custodianship of the paintings. Half of the paintings would be shown in Dublin every five years, but this arrangement was altered in 1993 whereby 31 of the paintings would stay in Dublin.

Charlemont House (the former townhouse of James Caulfield, owner of the Casino at Marino) was opened as the permanent location for the Municipal Gallery of Modern Art, and it is now one of the city’s favourite galleries.

Don Cameron

www.donsdublin.wordpress.com

Jobless figures are still falling  bairbre ni bhraonain

NTA is disappointed by the union action as commuters will be inconvenienced. Picture: Mark Stedman/Photocall Ireland

Business unfazed by May Day bus strike  bairbre ni bhraonain

DUBLIN Chamber of Commerce has urged all parties involved in the dispute over the tendering of 10% of Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann routes to return to talks.

Chief executive Gina Quin said the effect on retailers of the National Bus and Rail-workers’ Union’s (NBRU) May 1 strike would be “negligible” but added: “A functioning public transport system is essential to the smoothrunning of the city.”

NBRU Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann drivers plan to strike on May 1 following a recent ballot of mem-

bers over the tendering of 10% of routes to private contractors.

This week 93% of SIPTU bus drivers also voted for industrial action. The NBRU says 92% of their members did likewise.

On April 10, SIPTU balloted its members after the breakdown of talks between it, the NBRU, bus companies and the National Transport Authority at the Labour Relations Commission (LRC).

No date has been decided for a SIPTU strike but the NBRU is calling on its sister trade union to join forces in its protest, which includes a two-hour march

to the Dail and other marches nationwide.

According to Dermot O’Leary, NBRU general secretary, up to 1,700 of the union’s bus drivers will march in Dublin on the day.

In February, the NTA opted to put 23 Dublin Bus routes out to private tender, including Nos 17 and 18, which affect the city centre.

NBRU president John Moloney wrote to SIPTU utilities and construction division organiser Owen Reidy, asking the union to join the NBRU in strike action on International Workers’ Day, to highlight the concerns of bus work-

ers.

Reidy told The Gazette, he was unsure of NBRU plans for May 1 and did not believe the two-hour stoppage mentioned would be sufficient.

SIPTU has given the Department of Transport, Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann until April 24 to commit to enter talks with them, otherwise strike action could go ahead.

The NTA said it was disappointed unions had chosen this action as commuters would be inconvenienced.

Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe said he was committed to implementing the tendering plan.

THE latest unemployment figures released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) show that the number of people on the Live Register in Dublin has fallen by 11,226.

Dublin Chamber of Commerce is now working with the Department of Social Protection on a pilot project to increase the number of companies hiring off the Live Register. This initiative follows the chamber’s work in the Ballymun Youth Guarantee Project.

Youth unemployment in Ballymun has fallen by 29% compared to 18% in other North Dublin areas.

The CSO figures show that 30% of the decrease in Dublin’s Live Register came was among the under 25 age group.

Gina Quin, chief executive of Dublin Chamber, said: “There is significant goodwill among business to help those unemployed to join or rejoin the workforce. The Ballymun pilot demonstrates this, but also highlights the difficulty many have in understanding the different Government programmes in operation.”

Jeanie Johnston revamp moving along  keith bellew

kbellew@dublingazette.com

The project to restore the Famine ship Jeanie Johnston as part of a redevelopment of the Dublin Docklands is progressing well with ownership to transfer shortly from the Dublin Docklands Authority to Dublin City Council.

It is expected that the ship’s

revamp will be part of a huge tourist drive to regenerate the Dublin City and Liffey area.

Regenerate

Deputy Joe Costello (Lab), head of the Finance and Emergency Special policy committee tasked with regenerating the docklands, said this should help to regenerate much of the areas in the vicinity which

have seen little growth in terms of commerce and job creation despite some development in recent years.

Cllr Noeleen Reilly (SF) agreed that the project could be a boon for underprivileged areas nearby like Sheriff Street.

“Some of those areas have been very much neglected over the last few decades. The finan-

cial services [centre] was built in the middle of their community but I don’t really see how the community benefitted much from that through employment,“ she said.

She added that she believed the ship could become a huge asset and tourist attraction for the State’s capital city and bring jobs into the local communities.

16 April 2015 dublin city gazette 5

service Residents unhappy with move as An Post puts contract out for tender

Sandymount post office closes without notice  ian begley

THE post office at Sandymount has been temporarily closed with no prior notice given to local residents.

According to An Post, the sudden closure on March 31 was due to “circumstances beyond our control”.

A contract to run a post office in the seaside suburb has

now been put out to tender.

Many elderly residents on pensions and people who claim social protection payments will be particularly hard hit by the closure. They will have to travel to the post office in Ballsbridge to get their payments.

A spokesperson from An Post told The Gazette: “We had a situation where we had to close the post office in Sand-

croke park: helping feed a million kids

Sing-along for school dinners  Keith bellew kbellew@dublingazette.com

CROKE Park is trading sport for song on Friday, April 24, for the Mary’s Meals Make it a Million charity concert and raffle.

The event is a bid to grow support for Mary’s Meals and help the charity provide meals to more children in school. The charity provides meals to some of the world’s poorest children every day that they attend school, and is on the verge of reaching out to 1,000,000 children.

The event, which has been organised by volunteers Damien Richardson from Blanchardstown, and Aoife Martin and her mother, Mary Martin, from Swords, will see Croke Park transformed for an evening of music and entertainment, thanks to a group of dedicated volunteers from Swords and Blanchardstown.

Aoife Martin said: “We’ve enjoyed incredible support from volunteer groups over the last decade and word about our work is quickly spreading across the country. News that we are

now reaching more than 989,000 children with a nutritious meal in school has spurred on individuals and groups across the Mary’s Meals family to keep the momentum going as we journey evercloser to the milestone of serving one million children each school day.”

The concert will feature performances from internet sensation Father Ray Kelly and classical singer Father Marino Nguekam.

The ticket price of €15 is enough to feed a child with Mary’s Meals for a school year.

Raffle prizes include pilgrimage trips abroad, weekend stays in several locations around Ireland, and premier tickets to this year’s All Ireland Semi Football final. Tickets can be bought at www.idonate.ie/makeitamillion.

Doors open to the Hogan Suite at 6.30pm and the concert starts at 7.30pm.

For more information about the event, call Damien Richardson on 086 064 4662, Aoife Martin on 085 179 7278 or Mary Martin 086 381 4737. For more information about Mary’s Meals, visit www. marysmeals.ie

ymount and terminate the contractor who ran the post office for us. That was [due to] circumstances beyond our control, but we’re doing our best to get a new post office provided for the Sandymount area as quickly as we can.

“We have put the provision of post office services in Sandymount out to tender and the closing date is April 15.”

Asked if any notice had been given prior to the closure, the spokesperson said: “Because of the nature of the steps we had to take it was impossible to give advance notice.

“We were able to put a notice up at the former premises in Sandymount to inform customers of what happened and steps we have been able to put in place for them.”

A concerned resident from Sandymount told The Gazette that people there felt let down by the sudden closure of the post office.

“We were given no notice or anything. The whole of Sandymount didn’t know a thing until it was closed down on March 31. I couldn’t even pay my bills and I feel terribly bad for the elderly people who

now have to go to Ballsbridge to collect their pensions.”

Cllr Mannix Flynn (Ind) said: “Post offices are a very important part of the community and the effects of these closures are detrimental.

“The post office in Ringsend was closed recently and caused a lot of inconvenience for elderly people and those on social welfare.”

6 dublin city gazette 16 April 2015

scheme Planning sought for major project

Proposal to turn houses into student accommodation  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

Six houses on Thomas Street and one on Hanbury Lane could be transformed into a major student housing scheme comprising 296 bed spaces, if planning is approved on May 18.

Applicants Hattington Student Housing Ltd have lodged a planning application with the council to remodel numbers 30 and 32 to 36 Thomas Street and 10 Hanbury Lane, Dublin 8 into student

accommodation.

The site of the prop o s e d d e ve l o p m e n t includes a 247 unit (296 student bed spaces) student accommodation facility with retail uses at the ground floor of the existing Thomas Street properties.

The overall proposal includes the conservation and refurbishment of Numbers 30 and from 32 to 36 Thomas Street along with a change of use of these buildings to accommodate the development proposed.

Proposed new buildings to be constructed range in height from three to six storeys to be set back behind the existing Thomas Street buildings via a newlyformed private pedestrian street.

The overall development will be around 8,625sqm in floor area (existing and new buildings combined).

The main entrance to the student accommodation complex is proposed to be via number 32 Thomas Street, pro-

viding a ground floor reception area and leisure/recreation space.

Student accommodation will be on the first to third floors above numbers 30, 33 to 36 Thomas Street.

T he proposal also includes one threestorey townhouse on Hanbury Lane which will accommodate eight student accommodation bed spaces, landscaping, demolition of structures, roof terraces and the construction of courtyards.

Pictured at the launch of the Moore Street redevelopment bill was Fianna Fail spokesperson Senator Darragh O’Brienn (centre). Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

Moore Street: national monument will come into public ownership

Government to buy historic Rising site  Keith Bellew

MINISTER for Ar ts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Heather Humphreys recently announced that the Government is to acquire the national monument at 14 -17 Moore Street.

A Department spokesperson said the Moore Street national monument would now come into public ownership, thus securing the long-term future of the landmark. A centre is to be developed on the site and will be run as a public facility with access for visitors and will enhance and complement the 1916 visitor facility being developed in the GPO. Minister Humphreys will bring further proposals to Government

shortly outlining plans to safeguard and fully restore the buildings, and to create a 1916 commemorative centre on the site.

She said: “I am delighted that the Government is demonstrating its commitment to saving the national monument at 14 -17 Moore Street, which has such special significance as we move towards the 2016 commemorations.

“This puts an end to the uncer tainty surrounding the future of these buildings and ensures that they will be accessible to all who are interested in the history of the 1916 Rising.

I hope this project will be completed during the centenary year as a fitting tribute to the leaders of the Easter

Rising.”

Meanwhile Fianna Fail has also published a Bill to redevelop the Moore Street monument and designate the surrounding area as a historical quarter, along the same lines as the Temple Bar Cultural Quarter.

Senator Darragh O’Brien (FF) said: “We are looking to designate Moore Street as the historical centre of Dublin.

Our focus is on redeveloping the national monument and opening it up to the public,” he said.

The surrounding environs of the monument are the responsibility of Dublin City Council which said it had no comment to make on the possibility of a historical quarter at present.

16 April 2015 dublin city gazette 7

community Facilities win more time to sharpen funding pitch

Centres get lifeline as money dries up  laura webb news@gazettegroup.com

THE future of two sports and community centres at further education colleges in south Dublin have been thrown a lifeline with more time given to secure three more years of funding for the facilities.

Annual funding of €216,000 to staff the centres at Crumlin and Inchicore colleges of further education ceased at the end of 2014 after three years. The funding is provided by the Department of Social Protection under the Community Services Programme to ensure the facilities operated by the City of Dublin Educa-

tion and Training Board (CDETB) are made available to the community at a reasonable cost.

When funding expired a review was initiated as part of recontracting. Proposals made by CDETB were refused because they were not considered “sufficiently robust” by the Department to warrant another three years of funding.

The board has now sought re-examination and must improve the proposals put to the Department to enable further funding.

In correspondence with Deputy Aengus O’Snodaigh (SF), Junion Minister for Social

Protection Kevin Humphreys, said he had received “a number of enquiries” concerning the funding for the community facilities.

According to Minister Humphreys, the Department and Pobal (which manages contracts and finances for the programme) are working with CDETB to address the “weaknesses” identified in the proposals.

He said the Department was “committed” to securing the community use of these facilities, and the contract with the board was extended to June 2015 to enable CDETB address concerns to the Department.

“Our aim is to allow for the longer term operation of the contract and to ensure visibility of services to the community.”

Deputy O’Snodaigh said there was some positive news in what Minister Humphreys had said and he was hopeful the situation would be sorted in time.

He said part of the remit for the funding was to work with the community and community groups. If the hall closed it would be a “huge loss”.

“This has to be sorted by the end of June – it’s a tight timeframe. It seems there wasn’t enough promotion within the application of the com-

Deputy Aengus O’Snodaigh (SF)

munity gain. They are working to change the documentation they originally provided to highlight more of the community groups, who they are and what benefits they get. The halls were set up [about 10

years ago] to ensure there were proper sports halls available in the area.

“The funding is there but they have to satisfy Pobal it is for community benefit…

“The Department seems confident the

money will be drawn down. If the hall closed [these groups] would have to move out of the area… it would be a huge loss... it would run solely for the college, and it wouldn’t have the money to open to the public.”

8 dublin city gazette 16 April 2015

gazetteGALLERY

The whole crew lines up for a group photo. Pictures: Stephen Fleming Photography

TAEKWONDO: JUNIOR MINISTER VISITS

Funds help local sports club flourish T

HERE was an exciting display of martial arts recently at Sean McDermott Street Taekwondo Club as Junior Sport Minister Michael Ring visited the thriving premises.

The club is one of the oldest of its kind in Dublin and was allocated €25,000 two years ago to help with renovation and rebirth

Christopher Fagan gives little Ryan Kinsella advice ahead of meeting Minister Michael Ring

Christy O’Brien

through the Sports Capital Programme Grant.

Former World Champion from the club Christy Fagan said the allocated funding had gone a long way towards helping the club improve it’s facilities.

The money helped with badly needed renovations following damage to the hall.

Seamus Kirwan, Lord Mayor Christy Burke (Ind), John Kirwan, Minister Michael Ring and Christopher Fagan

Medal winners: Tegan Brady, bronze; Orla Melia, silver; Abi Kinsela, gold; and Erin Kane, bronze

16 April 2015 dublin city gazette 9

gazetteGALLERY

Aine O’Brien

Michael and Maria Miley

Members from the London–based Irish feminist group, Speaking of IMELDA with local pro–choice activists coordinated an action in which women chained themselves to pillars outside the GPO. Pictures: James Martin

commemoration: Rewinding the clock to 1915

It’s Rising time

T

ens of thousands took to O’Connell Street on Easter Monday to help make The Road to the Rising event come alive.

As part of its Easter Rising commemorations, the public were invited to step back in time to 1915 for the RTE Rising commemoration. Actors helped to recreate a wedding

and funeral from the period, while a restored open-front tram served as a platform for readings and performances. The event takes place a year before the centenary of the Easter Rising, with the idea being to set the scene for next year’s commemorations.

See more on Page 10

Bean Holland and Will Flanagan from Realta

10 gazette 16 April 2015

gazetteGALLERY commemoration: Rewinding the clock to 1915

It’s Rising time Philip Smithers

Fionnuala Ni Chasaide and Cris Ni Choisdealbha

Simon Benson with Laoise and Francis Cahill

Layla and Noor Wright

Emma O’Driscoll

Mary Browne

John Shevlin (James Joyce lookalike)

Maria Nolan

16 April 2015 Gazette 11

business P16

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

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diary P12 feature P14

day in the life: it’s a little steak and eggs before mentalist’s busy day

what’son

No such thing as an average day for Barry

Best New Play at the draiocht:

 ian begley

Irish hypnotist, mentalist and actor Keith Barry has a career that’s certainly unconventional to say the least.

Amazing his audiences around the world with various illusions and mental feats has given him a reputation that makes him stand out among the many others who have attempted to mirror his craft.

This week, The Gazette caught up with the 38year-old Waterford native to see what his day-to-day life entails.

“There is no such thing as an average day for me.

Recently for over the past four months, I would get up every day at 6am

while working on the second season of Now You See Me in London and wouldn’t get home until midnight.

“At the moment, I get up at 8am and for breakfast I’d usually have steak and eggs because I’m currently working out a lot.

“I train a lot in town and have got a personal trainer who pushes me to the limit and knocks the shit out of me, to be honest.

“I change my training style depending on what stunts I do. Before Christmas, I was performing at the Waterford Christmas festival where I did a 100ft suspended straightjacket so I had to build up my back strength and increase my lung capac-

ity.

“In the States, I did a stunt where I got tased and had 50,000 volts going through my system.

I had a whole concept of challenging a cop where I said that I could hack into his brain while tasing me at the same time.

He thought of a word and I had to think of what it was while being shot with 50,000 volts.”

When he’s not performing life endangering stunts or hacking into people’s minds, Barry said that fishing is a huge hobby of his.

“Next week, I’ll be fishing in the River Lee in Cork and, during the summer, I’ve got a charter boat booked at Ross’ Point in Sligo, which

Keith Barry: “Next week, I’ll be fishing in the River Lee in Cork”

I’m really looking forward to.

“I’m also a huge bookworm. When I get home I love to indulge in psychology, hypnosis and magic books. Often I’d go on Amazon and buy about 30 books at a time.

“To unwind in the eve-

nings and when I want some downtime I like to sit down with the wife and watch shows on Netflix like Breaking Bad or The Shield.

“I’m not a big sleeper and wouldn’t get to bed until around 2am even when I have to be up

bright and early the next day.”

Barry’s new live show Out of Control will take place around Ireland this October with tickets starting at €30.

For more information, visit www.keithbarry. com

Rise Productions smash hit, The Games People Play, will be performed at Draiocht Blanchardstown.

Written by Gavin Kostick, directed by Bryan Burroughs and starring Aonghus Og McNally and Lorna Quinn, it was named Best New Play at the Irish Times Theatre Awards and was a sell-out success at Dublin Fringe Festival.

The story, which is a modern take on the tale of Tir na nOg sees Niamh and Oisin living the modern suburban dream with a nice house, comfortable lifestyle, and kids.

However they soon realise that everything they ever dreamed of still isn’t enough?

The Irish Theatre Magazine gave it a four star rating and described it as: “Riveting... both a timeless story about two people lost inside a marriage, and a very contemporary Irish horror story.”

For booking’s call 01-8852622 or visit draiocht.ie.

For more information on the show visit www.riseproductionsireland.com.

Gazette

12 Gazette 16 April 2015

dublinlife

DIARY

Thousands sing to prove they have X Factor Last week, Croke Park, better known for GAA matches or even the odd concert, groaned under the weight of thousands of hopefuls who turned up to audition for the X Factor.

Croke Park held two days of auditions for X Factor on April 8 and 9 and also went around to smaller towns in Ireland with their mobile audition van.

If you did not get a chance to sing your little heart out for the judges at Croker, never fear: you can audition online at www.application.xfactor.ie.

This year’s X Factor judges are once again Louis Walsh, Simon Cowell, Cheryl and Mel B. However, host Dermot O’Leary will not be returning to the show.

Cowell tweeted: “Dermot has been an amazing presenter on the X Factor… He held the craziness together. Most of the time. He is a great guy and a real talent.”

confetti ‘made out of lies’

LocalMatters S u p p o r t l o c a l b u s i n e ss

A d v e r t i s e w i t h t h e G a z e tt e c a l l 6 0 1 0 2 4 0

A Dublin stationer has come up with a festive way to tackle homophobia and support the Yes Equality campaign which advocates a Yes vote in the marriage equality referendum in May. Daintree Papers is currently selling wedding confetti made from shredded leaflets containing what they deem to be homophobic propaganda and are donating all of the proceeds to the Yes Equal-

Simon Cowell has been confirmed as a judge on this year’s X Factor

ity campaign as part of a project they are calling Shred of Decency.

They are currently collecting flyers which according to them contain “lies” along with online posts which they are printing and shredding.

They are inviting people who find any such material online to tweet it using #ShredThisTweet which they will then print and shred.

“At Daintree, paper is our favourite thing in the whole world.

“So when paper was used to spread some ugly lies in the run-up to the marriage equality referendum we weren’t one bit happy,” said the proprietors of the shop.

develop your storytelling Irish folklore enthusiasts have an opportunity to immerse themselves in 6,000 years of the storytelling tradition with a course at the National Leprechaun Museum

on Jervis Street.

The next course runs from April 21 and classes run weekly on Tuesdays from 7pm to 9pm at the museum, including a live storytelling showcase on the final night; with a chance for participants to entertain family and friends with their new skill.

The art of the seanachie and tales like Cuchulainn, the Tain Bo Cuailgne and Deirdre of the Sorrows are famous throughout the world.

I n t h i s s i x- w e e k course, par ticipants will delve into the background of some wellknown Irish legends, learn how to deliver a story with confidence and style and adapt their skills for different audiences Places are limited so those interested in taking part or seeking more information can contact 01 873 3899 or email rainbow@leprechaunmuseum.ie.

16 April 2015 Gazette 13

14 Gazette 16 April 2015

Gazette

dublinlife Another magic role for Rickman

FEATURE

film: from hans gruber to professor snape, one actor defines superb characters

 keith bellew

HOLLYWOOD heavyweight Alan Rickman graced our shores this year for the Jameson Dublin International Film Festival, where he premiered his latest film, A Little Chaos.

The event was held at Cineworld in Parnell Street on Saturday, April 25 and was attended by the BAFTA award winner, along with the film’s writer, Dublin-born Ali-

son Deegan, and Dublin actress Cathy Belton.

Set in 17th century France, the film – Rickman’s first directorial role in film since The Winter Guest in 1997 – follows a female landscapegardener played by Kate Winslet, who must construct the grand gardens at Versailles.

Her botanical responsibilities see her thrust into all the intrigues and drama of the infamous court of King Louis XIV

(Rickman). Belton plays the part of Winslet’s handmaiden.

Perfect

The script was written 17 years ago, but was only made last year. Having written the screenplay, Deegan decided that Rickman would be the perfect person to bring her story to life.

However, he had just been confirmed in the role of Professor Snape in Harry Potter. He agreed

to take the commission to direct A Little Chaos, as he didn’t think that Potter role would last long!

Although Rickman had not directed a film since 1997, he has directed on stage regularly throughout the 18-year interval.

Speaking to The Gazette, he said: “I have been directing in the theatre quite a bit so it’s the same job really, just with more support in film. It was exciting, and I was surrounded by a great crew and great actors so, like I said, when you make a movie you’ve got incredible support.”

Rickman played Eamon De Valera in the 1996 film Michael Collins, and with his role as Louis XIV in A Little Chaos, when asked what it is like playing the parts of such important historical figures, he said:

Alan Rickman: “You learn not to judge these characters [like King Louis XIV]; they’re very iconic, and you have to find out what makes them human”

“I had played Rasputin before that, and you learn not to judge these characters; they’re very iconic, and you have to find out what makes them human.

“It’s incredibly interesting to find out the isolation of somebody like that [Louis XIV], it’s a bit self-imposed in a way, but he didn’t ask to be

A journey through dance Lastweek Ballet Ireland performed a new dance piece choreographed by the renowned Ludovic Ondiviela at the Project Arts Centre in Temple Bar. The production is called A Journey Through Dance: Tutus and Beyond and the show is currently touring around Ireland but will make a return to Dublin later this month.

Ballet Ireland’s national tour of A Journey Through Dance: Tutus and Beyond, takes in three centuries of dance, from traditional classical ballet to striking contemporary work.

The new work, Tutus and Beyond, was cre-

ated for the company

by Royal Ballet dancerturned-choreographer Ondiviela.

Ondiviela trained at the Royal Ballet School in London and danced with the Royal Ballet for 11 years before retiring in 2014 to dedicate himself to choreography.

Ballet Ireland’s Tutus and Beyond comes to the Civic Theatre, Tallaght on April 24 and 25 and tickets, costing €20 or €16 for concessions, are available by calling 01 462 7477. The show comes to Draiocht in Blanchardstown on April 29 and tickets are available by booking on 01 8852622 or at www. draiocht.ie.

Louis XIV, he wakes up and finds himself as that.

‘Louis XIV’ – they’re very big words.

“They’ve had a huge impact on history, and attitudes to class, and they’re a lot of the things that Alison picks up on [in her film] – that it’s a maledominated world where women were decorative objects only.”

Also speaking to The Gazette, the film’s writer, Alison Deegan, said she was “wonderfully happy” with how the film turned out, and that Rickman had done a great job.

She said: “It’s been a fantastic process, I’ve really enjoyed it and I’m so glad – I had the best person in the world for it.”

16 April 2015 Gazette 15

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

STYLE Next Bug jeans €1

3

Next C rocodil

Nex

er €10 e jump

t Lem ress rint d

on p €38

Heatons Mon key tee

dress €16

fab offerings this week, with colourful prints and some furry friendly animals sure to delight.

Next’s children’s department is newly renovated and customers can shop the new collections with more choice and more space.

As regards Gap Outlet, they carry their own unique ranges for kids with all the great quality, style and fit you expect from GAP at outlet prices.

ley 0 Ash €3 ra nny Lau tty Bu He

FROM fab frocks to jewelled jeans and everything in between, Westend Shopping Park has lots to offer our little people.

Located in Blanchardstown, it’s a one-stop-shop for children with Next, Laura Ashley, Heatons and many more providing much in the way of clothing, while Argos and Chad Valley are a real boon when it comes to picking up a present for junior (or his sister).

Check out a selection of their

Heatons Lace

Nex top t Cap € €10 ; Lig 7; Mons ht je ter ans €10

€15

Gap Outlet Jacket €24.40; Tee €13.90; Trousers €17.40; Sandals €17.40 Chad Valley 1,000 piece craft trunk €17.49

Gazette

16 Gazette 16 April 2015

dublinlife

Q&A

business €1m partnership boost at DCU campus U S - BA S E D t e s t i n g company Prometric has announced a three-year partnership with Dublin City University (DCU) valued at almost €1m.

The company, which provides test development solutions for companies in terms of their

entrance examinations for employees, has invested more than €75m in Ireland over 10 years of operation.

The partnership with DCU will see the establishment of DCU’s Centre for Assessment Research in Education (CARE),

which aims to influence and improve Ireland’s education system.

The partnership will support the development of test types to better assess the preparedness of Irish students at all levels of education, in the areas of critical thinking and

skills assessment, in addition to knowledge recall.

The research conducted through CARE is expected to influence Irish education and strengthen Ireland’s workforce.

Three jobs will be created at the DCU campus with the partnership.

enterprise: continued growth at tech centre

More small Encouraging healthy firms plug steps to change a life into The Digital Hub marie healy, your way in, blackrock

MARIE Healy is owner of Your Way In – a weight-loss and healthy nutrition clinic which she opened last November in Blackrock, her home for the past 24 years, where she lives with her two daughters and partner.

Before opening her own clinic, Healy worked for Dr Eva Orsmond as her personal assistant, and subHow long have you been in business?

For just over five months, since the beginning of November 2014.

What makes your business successful?

From experience, having worked until recently in a similar field, I have put together a team of nutritionists who together with their experience, qualifications and sheer passion for health and nutrition know exactly what the client requires, and can design a plan suitable for their specific needs.

We offer professional weight-loss advice and support to those who really need to change their health for the better. To date, our results speak for themselves.

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

We have an easy-to-follow, no-gimmicks approach to healthy eating. We offer tailor-made programmes with nutritionally sound, professional weight-loss advice and support to our clients and because we believe that healthy eating and physical activity go hand in hand, comprising 80% diet and 20% exercise, we also offer weekly fitness classes, including Zumba and pilates, in our fitness studio. For those who wish to extend their healthy lifestyle, I offer organic treatments in my beauty salon, also at the clinic.

What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your

sequently managed Dr Eva’s five weight-loss Orsmond Clinics, where she gained an immense amount of experience in weight management.

Based on her experience, Healy believes her easy-to-follow approach to healthy eating involving only natural, real food is the most successful route to weight loss and health. business?

Some health insurance companies currently offer cover for clients to attend nutritional therapists, but not all. I think that all health insurance policies should include cover for nutritional consultations.

Not only would the insurance companies benefit from having healthier people on their books, but there would be fewer incidences of serious diseases, such as type II diabetes, heart disease etc, which could only have a positive effect on the already over-burdened hospitals.

How has the recession affected your business?

As we are a new business, we haven’t experienced a downturn.

From the outset it was always in our plans to make available payment plans and special offers as much as possible in an effort to support clients who really need and want to change their health for the better.

What is your ambition for the business?

I am working hard to get our name out there and I am hoping that my business will grow from strength to strength because I want my clinic to be known as the place where people who are struggling with health and weight issues can come for help and support.

I have seen first-hand how easily some of these issues can be remedied through food choices. I get great satisfaction from seeing how small changes can be life-changing.

EIGHT small but growing businesses have joined the Digital Hub at Roe Lane, Dublin 8 since the start of 2015.

These new companies will join close to 90 digital enterprises already operating at The Digital Hub, which caters for growing technology companies.

The new companies collectively employ 17 people. Those that joined include Base2Digital (a multi-disciplinary digital marketing agency); Castle Direct (an online marketing system designer); Imprez (Ireland’s only company which focuses solely on Prezi web-based presentation application training and design); and Legion (a technology company that designs and develops innovative digital solutions).

Other new businesses are My Beatz (an online music community where artists can connect and share their music); NumberGroup (a company that provides telecom services to SME businesses all across the world);

Statwolf (a new in-house data finding expert) and Tyndall National Institute (an information and communications technology research centre).

Gerry Macken, chief executive officer, The Digital HubGerry Macken, chief executive, The Digital Hub said: “We were delighted to welcome eight new companies in what has proved to be a very busy first quarter.

“There are now almost 650 people working in companies based at The Digital Hub, making us the largest cluster of digital media, technology and internet businesses in Ireland.”

Ian Nunoo, founder and director, Base2Digital, said he chose the Digital Hub for the company as it is very much a collaborative, creative and supportive environment.

He said: “We are proud to call The Digital Hub our home. As a digital company, we were impressed with the success of the initiative they have launched to promote digital [enter-

Gerry Macken, chief executive officer, The Digital Hub

prises] across Dublin and Ireland.

“Our move comes at a very interesting time for the company. We anticipate that there will be continued growth in our portfolio over the rest of the year as the ever increasing importance of digital marketing becomes more prominent in Ireland.”

Discussing the company’s recent move, Niall Dennehy, co-founder, Imprez, said: “We chose The Digital Hub for many reasons – we wanted to be surrounded by dynamic companies and individuals for inspiration and

invaluable networking opportunities, and we desired modern offices that offered us quick and easy access to state-ofthe-art training rooms.”

He went on to say that, as a growing company that aims to become recognised as a global leader in Prezi training and design, they need to be based in an environment which really fosters innovation and creativity.

“The Digital Hub certainly provides that,” he said.

For further information on The Digital Hub, see www.thedigitalhub.com.

16 April 2015 Gazette 17

bride & groom P21

asdfsdaf P27 cinema P25

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, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week



Gazette

style P18

Pets Tighe will tug on your heartstrings

Dublin Greek Film Festival organisers Kiki Konstantinidou and Aleksandra Szymbara

Film Festival: shedding light on a culture dealing with recession

A glimpse into Greek tragedy  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

A glimpse into a culture dealing with recession is what the first Dublin Greek Film Festival promises Dublin audiences this April.

The event takes place from April 23 to April 26 at Chester Beatty Library, Filmbase and The New Theatre. Screenings will be representative of Greece past, present and future, by both established and breakthrough artists of Greek cinema, recognised throughout the world film festivals.

The Gazette spoke to Aleksandra Szymbara, a founder of the festival.

“I’m originally from Poland but I organised the festival with Kiki Konstantinidou, who’s Greek.

“We both love art house movies and

cinema. She approached me with the idea to start the festival and, because my boyfriend is Greek, I’m very interested in Greek culture as well.

“So we decided to show some Greek cinema here in Dublin to introduce them to Irish audiences. I work for Age and Opportunity for the Bealtaine Festival and like festivals and events in general.

“So, that, along with my love of cinema, made it very natural for me to get involved in this festival.”

Szymbara began working on the festival last year by contacting venues to screen the movies and then looking for sponsorship was a “learning curve” that she’s hopeful will get easier for next year’s instalment.

“I’m more used to doing marketing

with just a small bit of event organisation but not that much. Looking for sponsors for funding was something new for me and it was a learning curve and a little bit challenging but it’s pretty straightforward. Once you start, you learn quickly how to do it. Next year it will be easier.”

Films set to be shown deal with everyday problems, such as Greek’s economic recession. The films offer Irish audiences an opportunity to find out more about the realities of what Greek people have had to overcome. They also have strong parallels with Ireland’s economic situation.

Szymbara said: “The population in Greece is small but many people discuss it in the context of the recession. I think Irish people are especially curious about

other cultures and we hope this curiosity will bring them to the cinema.”

A testament to this curiosity is that two events, the opening film screening of the documentary The Grocer and a Greek traditional dance workshop both at Chester Beatty Library have already sold out.

Many other screenings are still available to book, however. One such screening providing some light relief is The Eternal Return of Antonis Paraskevas on April 26 at The New Theatre.

The film is about a famous Greek TV anchorman who fakes his own kidnapping in a desperate bid to salvage his ailing career.

For more information about the programme, you can visit the festival’s website at www.greekfilmfestival.ie

The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs.

Our Dog of the Week is Tighe – a five-year-old male crossbreed. What a handsome young man Tighe is! Sadly he is really struggling living in a kennel environment, so we really hope to find a suitable home for him really soon.

He would love his adopters to be active, and to have a real interest in developing his basic training and socialisation skills. All his carers think he will make a perfect house pet for the right family!

If you think that might just be you, please contact Dogs Trust on 01-879 1000.

They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50.

Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline or on Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. You can also pop up for a visit – it’s open six days a week from 12pm to 4pm.

The centre is closed all day Tuesday.

Gazette

18 Gazette 16 April 2015

OUT&ABOUT Flower print dress €165

Mint paisley peplum top €99; trousers €99

Bodice dress €175

Maxi dress €145

Pearl and lace dress €165

Floral trousers €99

Fresh As A

 laura webb

THINGS are hotting up with Irish design brand Daisy May and its latest new trends for the summer season.

The contemporary label is known for its classic, elegant silhouettes and feminine styling and this collection is no different.

The SS15 collection consists of new season trends with fashionable touches including stunning vibrant maxis, stylish separates, floral paisley trousers and structured dresses that are sure to make you stand out at any special occasion.

The collection is flawless for women wanting that perfect outfit, and is available in sizes 8 to 18.

Established in 2010 by Gerard Burke and Karen Carthy, the brand has grown in success over the past few years with many Irish and English celebrities wearing the brand, including singer Adele and TV presenters Maura Derrane and Sybil Mulcahy.

The brand is available across Ireland via boutiques and is also being distributed internationally.

For stockist information, see www. ellaboo.ie.

16 April 2015 Gazette 19

Gazette

STYLE

Nivea’s new skin care products help you safely catch the sun

Golden advice about bronzing skin  laura webb

IT’S not quite time to get rid of the winter woollies, but when it comes to protecting your skin it shouldn’t matter what time of the year it is. As the weather has been behaving itself (well, over the past week at least), Gazette Beauty thought it was time to talk a little sun protection.

For many people, protecting their skin is important but many still want to achieve that bronzed skin look. Helping us to enjoy the best of both worlds is the Nivea Sun protect and bronze range.

Nivea Sun Protect and Bronze Tan Activating Protection

Shift dress €149

(€20.99) offers sun protection and a beautiful, lasting tan without compromise.

This is the first protecting-oil formula from Nivea Sun that incorporates an active ingredient – Pro Melanin – in its sunscreen formula to activate the skin’s natural tanning process, but at the same time it offers the protection needed against UVA and UVB rays.

This light, non-greasy formula is water-resistant and leaves skin feeling silky smooth to touch, making it a perfect combination for the health and beauty-conscious sun worshipper.

The second new development,

Nivea Sun Protect and Bronze Tan Prolonging After Sun Lotion (€7.99), helps to keep the summer feeling on the skin for longer, even after returning home from an exotic location if you are lucky enough to get away.

This lotion activates the skin’s natural tanning process without the need for self-tanner. The lightweight, non-sticky formula is quickly absorbed, leaving skin feeling soothed and rehydrated – while activating natural tanning at the same time.

So, don’t forget to protect the skin when enjoying the sun – your skin will thank you for it in the long run!

Poppy blooms as Monsoon singles her out for new role  amelia arkins

ONE of the most sought after fashion icons, Poppy Delevingne, has been announced as the brand-new face of the Monsoon spring summer 2015 campaign.

Delevingne, sister of top model Cara, is also an ambassador for European industry moguls such as Chanel and Louis Vuitton. As if that wasn’t enough, she is an ambassador for the British Fashion Council, so this is right up her street!

The campaign was shot in the Beldi Coun-

try Club in Marrakech by noted fashion photographer Emma Summerton, with a shoot that complements the boho chic ensembles, printed kaftans and embellished dresses, which have been set against an exotic backdrop of the beautiful scenery of Marrakech.

The shoot was styled to perfection by ex-InStyle UK fashion director Amanda Bellan, and captures Poppy’s laidback bohemian style.

Looks from the campaign are now available in Monsoon stores and online in Ireland.

Elvie Dress €265, bag €54, shoes €135

GAZETTE

20 GAZETTE 16 April 2015

OUT&ABOUT

TRAVEL

FastTravel Air we go ...

EMMA Marshall and Shane O’Sullivan helped Dublin Airport announce details of its summer schedule recently, which will see an 11% increase in capacity compared to last summer, marking the busiest summer at the airport since 2008.

21 new routes/services will be in operation, comprising 16 routes to the continent and five long-haul routes, including one to Addis Ababa, creating a direct link to subSaharan Africa.

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Knockranny House Hotel’s Spa Salveo was the perfect place to unwind after enjoying some of the fantastic cycling on offer

READY AND WAITING: ENJOYING BREATHTAKING VIEWS IN WESTPORT Greenway

What’s not to like about Knockranny?  THERESE CAHERTY

WE were looking forward to a a weekend of cycling, eating and massage.

Our large room in Knockranny House Hotel in Westport had a view, gazing out impassively on the picturesque town, Croagh Patrick and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.

The hotel sits on the Greenway track to Achill and we were up for it – as far as Mulranny at least.

And definitely tomorrow!

Meanwhile, we took in our luxurious surroundings (the bathroom included a jacuzzi bath and a hand basin each) We grabbed swimsuits and, in fluffy dressing gowns, headed for Spa Salveo. With its spa suite and cool pool, this was the

perfect place to unwind after a long week and the journey down. One hour of swimming and sweating later, we set out for the obligatory pint in Matt Molloy’s pub.

Next morning, after a sound sleep and breakfasts of poached and scrambled eggs in La Fougere, the 18-mile bike ride to Mulranny seemed just the ticket.

We collected our hotel lunch packs and in Clew Bay Bike Hire, picked up our vehicles. My companion took the electric option and I the high nelly. The Greenway, manageable for walkers and cyclists of all ages, is well-marked trail and takes in stunning views – particularly as Mulranny hoves into view. Great

weather made it even more memorable but, truth to tell, so did my legs which hadn’t turned a pedal in over two years.

Afternoon Delight (or tea) in the Brehon Bar eased the pain. Dainty open sandwiches of K nockanore cheese, Knockranny smoked salmon, baked ham, thyme poached chicken and a profusion of colourful mini cakes (lemon meringue – my favourite – passionfruit cheesecake, strawberry mousse, chocolate flan not to mention the humble scone) were washed down by china cups of tea. Making the moment golden…

A hot shower later and off again to Spa Salveo for a full body aromatherapy massage. I felt wobbly and

sore right after the cycle, but that evening and the following day, I waited for muscle pain and none emerged. The Deep Blue Rub truly lived up to its reputation.

No time for dawdling as back in the Brehon Bar we lined up for pre-prandial cocktails. The skilful Owen Hughes treated us to his prizewinning St Clement’s East mix.

Slainte, we said.

In La Fougere (no jeans allowed) head chef Seamus Commons and his staff had produced a delightful amuse bouche of pickled mackerel to open the evening.

From the menu, I chose a starter of green salad of asparagus, young broccoli and blue cheese dressing.

Far from the usual

limp lettuce this was substantial but light, the veg tender with bite and the tangy dressing enhancing the flavour of both.

In between a lime and ginger sorbet cleansed our palates. My seabass with creamed spinach, tomato salsa and assorted potatoes (croquette, garlic and roast) was melt in the mouth. I polished off the lot. Dessert was almost impossible – a spoonful of passion fruit mousse was about all I could manage.

And then it was time to return to the real world!

Opened by Adrian and Geraldine Noonan in 1997, Knockranny’s four stars have been well earned. More info at www.knockrannyhousehotel.ie and http://www. clewbaybikehire.ie/

Getaway

KNOCKRANNY House Hotel makes the perfect starting – and finishing – point for a cycling trip along the Great Western Greenway.

The hotel’s Greenway Getaway offers two adults and two children under 10 a two-night stay with breakfast each morning, bicycle and helmet hire for one day with packed lunch for that perfect picnic spot at Croagh Patrick or Clew Bay. Parents have full access to Spa Salveo’s Vitality Pool and Thermal Suite. They could even treat themselves to the special Knockranny Greenway treatment. This involves a mineral-infused foot soak and foot exfoliation, with peppermint and wild orange to invigorate tired feet.

A full body massage follows, using Doterra’s Deep Blue Rub, formulated with natural plant extracts to ease out problem areas.

The Greenway Getaway package is available from €185 per person and children under 10 stay for free!

For more information visit www.knockrannyhousehotel.ie or call 098 28 600.

GAZETTE

Bride Groom

16 April 2015 GAZETTE 21

l PL A N N I N G TH E B I G DAY l

Wedding venues to suite all tastes  BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN

WESTGROVE HOTEL

ONE of Kildare’s top wedding venues, The Westgrove Hotel, is currently offering some choice inclusive packages starting from €40 per person.

T he Westgrove is renowned for its cuisine and service and has huge experience in delivering weddings tailor-made to each couple’s taste and requirements. It has just been shortlisted for Bash Wedding magazine

Awards in the category of Best for Planning Ease.

Wedding coordinator Nicola Flynn and the rest of the wedding team will show you around and answer any questions you have about planning your wedding day.

The hotel frequently holds wedding fair days where top wedding suppliers exhibit their products and services. These include wedding decor companies, f lorists, menswear companies, wedding entertainment, beauticians and hair-

dressers. Another bonus the hotel offers is the chance to unwind and treat yourself during the preparations. The Elemis Spa is the ideal venue to slip away from worry and offers skincare advice and beauty tips.

For more information about the Westgrove Hotel, visit www.westgrovehotel.com. To contact the wedding planner about deals on offer, email nicolaf ly nn@ westgrovehotel.com or call 045 989908.

LYRATH ESTATE

Another lu xurious venue is Kilkenny’s fivestar Lyrath Estate Hotel, which prides itself as a wedding destination of elegance and comfort. It is located on the doorstep of Kilkenny city, a thriving social and cultural hotspot.

T h e 17 t h - c e n t u r y house has been ver y sensitively restored and is complemented with new additions through a series of chic modern spaces. It is set on 170 acres of lush green park

Kildare’s Westgrove Hotel and Kilkenny’s Lyrath Estate are two elegant venues for a wedding

land and historic gardens ideal for your wedding album.

Past and present combine here to create the perfect marriage. Coming up the main avenue, past the ancient Lyrath protected yew trees, the

vista opens up to reveal the original historic home. This is where you will greet your guests in old world elegance a n d g r a n d e u r. T h e park lands offer rolling hills, tranquil lakes, manicured gardens and

unspoilt views, to create the most romantic backdrop for your special day. The wedding team are available to discuss your requirements and can be contacted at 056 776 0088 or www.lyrath.com

GAZETTE

22 GAZETTE 16 April 2015

Bride Groom

l WH E R E TO WE D l

Fancy a wedding by the sea?

WHILE weddings are traditionally held in churches, synagogues and temples, many modern couples are looking for something a little different and the desire to be unique has become increasingly prevalent.

From beaches, castles, barns, sport stadiums and the zoo, there is a host of alternative wedding venues in Ireland to suit all tastes.

For those who wish to celebrate their special day in a heart-of-the-city wedding, then one of the numerous theatres may be the ideal venue.

Many theatres in the city centre are available to rent and with the innate class that most of

them boast, your wedding is bound to be an elegant affair.

For the most part, these theatres are incredibly spacious and boast ornate plasterwork ceilings, stained g l a s s w i n d ow s a n d striking architectural designs.

Weddings at Dublin Zoo are becoming ever more popular as the venue offers a unique alternative to the traditional wedding venue and provides a magical backdrop for your special day.

Weddings by the sea are another popular choice particularly at this time of year as the good weather returns.

Hotels are generally very accommodating for couples looking to tie the knot at their establishment and the

Capturing wedding memories FOR the latest in documentary wedding photography, Sebastian Felisiak offers a very personal vision of your entire wedding day. From the excitement of getting ready in the morning to throwing the bouquet, Felisiak, documents your special day.

Dublin-based Felisiak is passionate about photography, treating each wedding as a unique adventure to be catalogued with style. “My approach is not about endless group shots but rather about making something unique and beautiful. I would like for my images to tell a story of your beautiful day,� he said.

For more information, see www.artweddingphotography.eu.

Weddings by the sea are a popular choice for couples

gentle sea breeze and t h e w ave s c r a s h i n g against the rocks add a special ambience to the ceremony. Whether saying your vows during the brightness of high noon or as the sun sets romantically in the evening, a ceremony by the sea makes for a very special wedding.

The venue is not the only important factor when trying to make your wedding unique. By moving away from the

traditional ceremony, you can tailor the whole wedding experience to make it uniquely you.

If a traditional church ceremony is too religious for you and a civil ceremony is not spiritual enough, then a humanist ceremony might be the way to go. Humanist ceremonies can be Buddhist or pagan in their roots or simply embrace everything that is important to the couple. While it is still necessary to sign

a marriage register in order to make the union legally binding, humanist ceremonies allow the couple to have a wedding that expresses who they are from the music played to original personal vows. It also allows scope to make the ceremony more romantic, an option often missing from a civil ceremony.

Buddhist wedding ser vices are another way to go. There is no set wedding service or format in the Buddhist faith, and it is considered a social rather than religious occasion.

The Buddha stated only that marriage should be based on deep mutual respect between partners and the ceremony is usually a harmonious blend of the differing tastes and personalities of both partners.

16 April 2015 Gazette 23

| finding your bridal style |

What to wear Nostalgic glamour, lace and simplicity – these are wedding dress trends currently gracing catwalks this year. From Old World lace gowns with highly intricate detail reminiscent of the 1920s to high-waisted, full skirts that evoke all the elegance and effortless style of Grace Kelly, wedding dresses have never looked so beautiful. Also featuring as a huge theme in wedding gowns is pristine simplicity, ideal to show off the bride and not upstage her. Regal pearls, which add vintage charm to any wedding dress are also a great favourite this year. Decorative headpieces offer a more relaxed alternative to veils and conjure romantic tales of yore.

Vintage inspired headband €120 at www.theparisianbride.ie Paris clutch bag at www. theparisian bride.ie €245

Flora bridal dress from Sharon Hoey. Price available upon request.

Ciara Bridal Lulu Dress €2,000

Bespoke Hat by Deb Fanning – The Loft Market €95

GAZETTE

24 GAZETTE 16 April 2015

OUT&ABOUT

FOOD&DRINK

BITESIZEDNEWS

Taking 30 minutes to prepare, this crispy hake dish with yogurt tartar sauce serves four

We’ve fished around for this delicious dish THIS week we have a delicious fish recipe – crispy baked hake with yogurt tartar sauce – courtesy of Bord Bia Irish Food Board. This hake dish takes just 30 minutes to make, and serves four.

Note that Panko breadcrumbs, if available, make the coating extra crispy, but they are not essential, while tender stem broccoli and sauteed potatoes complete the dish.

Ingredients 4 hake fillets, approx. 175g each, skinned and boned 25g butter, melted 75g of stale breadcrumbs or Panko breadcrumbs 15g finely grated cheese 1 tablespoon chopped parsley leaves 40g plain flour 1 egg, lightly beaten Salt and freshly ground black pepper Yogurt Tartar Sauce 150g Greek style yogurt 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard 1 tablespoon capers, drained and finely chopped 1 small gherkin, finely chopped 1 tablespoon chopped parsley leaves

Preparation • Preheat oven to gas mark 6, 200C (400F).

• Line a large baking tray with parchment paper; brush a little of the melted butter over the parchment paper.

• Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish with the grated cheese and parsley. Place the flour and egg in separate shallow dishes.

• Season the hake with a little salt and black pepper.

Dip the hake, one piece at a time, into the flour, shake off the excess, then dip into the egg and finally into the breadcrumb mixture.

• Place on the baking tray, and brush the remaining melted butter over the top and sides of the fish.

• Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until cooked through.

• For the yogurt tartar sauce, place the yogurt, mustard, capers, gherkin, parsley, salt and pepper in a small bowl, and mix well to combine.

• Serve the sauce with the crispy hake, broccoli and potatoes.

King Sitric

Fish restaurant

East Pier, Howth King Sitric has been a

stalwart in Howth for the last 40 years and has an extensive range of fish available

The Picky Eater SO often when I go for dinner, I despair at the lack of fish options on the menu and every time I say the same thing: “We are an island, for God’s sake. And a small one at that. Why, oh why do we not have more fish on our menus?”

My husband is fed up listening to me, but it still surprises me, every time. The situation is getting better but still needs much improvement.

So when I get to go to an actual fish restaurant, known for its seafood, it’s a joy.

Hence we went on an excursion to King Sitric in Howth recently. It’s worth the trip.

Owned by Joan and Aidan McManus, this place has been a stalwart in Howth for the last 40 years and they are both still very actively involved, making this place a great family restaurant that people keep returning to.

They now have East

Cafe Bar just below the main restaurant which is a less formal dining experience but with some cracking fish dishes on offer.

There is a lovely bar area in the restaurant where you can enjoy a pre-dinner drink and we decided to partake of that while mulling over the menu.

T he range of fish available is extensive but they always manage to have some nice specials on there too.

I started with Dublin Bay Prawns in tempura; f luff y and succulent prawns with batter made super light with mineral water.

These came with noodles and dipping sauce.

My husband decided on the scallops with pancetta, chesnut puree and fried pumpkin.

Both starters were a massive success story and only whet the appetite for the main event: lobster lawyer and the king of fish, turbot.

Lobster Lawyer was cooked in a whiskey, cream and mustard sauce and served in a half shell.

The turbot came on a bed of mash with a creamy bisque like sauce and this fish lived up to its credentials.

King Sitric’s famous sticky meringue with chocolate sauce and ice cream appealed to my inner child and won me over while my husband plumped for a more serious panna cotta which was light enough after the lawyer.

The Hugel Pinot Blanc is specially bottled for King Sitric and is a really excellent house wine and was a fine accompaniment to the fish. And at €24 a bottle, it won’t break the bank.

Three courses in King Sitric costs €37 with some supplements applying.

If you don’t wish to make the long journey home after a really relaxing meal with

Scallops with pancetta, chesnut puree and fried pumpkin

superb views, book a room in the accommodation attached to the restaurant.

They have great sea views and you get to

Conclusion

sample more of the McManus’s fine food for breakfast too.

What’s not to love?

For more go to www. kingsitric.ie.

WITH dishes like lobster lawyer for your inner fine diner and desserts like sticky meringue with chocolate sauce and ice cream for your inner child, King Sitric (at East Pier, Howth; tel 01 832 5253) is a delightful family restaurant that is a terrific treat for the tummy and the eyes with its panoramic sea views.

16 April 2015 GAZETTE 25

THE SALVATION: HISTORICALLY AUTHENTIC

ReelReviews

Throwback to good and bad guy westerns THE heyday of the Western seems to be well and truly gone, and on the occasions when those old saloon doors do creak open we tend to have a very different take on the classic Western. Films like Unforgiven, The Proposition and The Homesman have reimagined the genre with a focus on the grit and moral ambiguity of the frontiers, while Django Unchained took the genre to its cartoonish extreme in plumes of blood and storms of bullets.

The Salvation, a Danish production filmed in South Africa, starts out in the former camp.

Mads Mikkelsen plays Jon, a Danish soldier who headed across the Atlantic with his brother (Mikael Persbrandt) in the wake of the Schleswig War to start a new

 DAVE PHILLIPS

life. We join the story seven years on, in 1870, when the foundations have been set and Jon’s wife and child have just arrived in America.

Lingering doubts around the legitimacy of the Danish western are quashed in the opening minutes.

Director and writer Kristian Levring captures a sense of historical accuracy and authenticity in his story of Scandinavian immigrants in America.

“You don’t just look like them, you sound like them too,” Jon’s wife observes in Danish once

GAZETTE

ENTERTAINMENT

SPONGEBOB MOVIE A sponge out of water

she hears him speak English – there’s a strong sense of ostracisation, the language barrier making the family immediate outsiders in the melting pot of cultures that make up the Wild West.

The unsavoury and lawless nature of the frontier is drilled home in a rough scene that sees Jon’s wife and child murdered on their way from the train station.

Jon delivers some quick and merciless retribution, an act that sets the plot in motion as we discover that one of the men Jon dispatched is the much loved brother of the exceptionally wicked local bad-guy Delarue (Jeffrey Dean Morgan).

The introduction of Delarue marks a tonal shift in the film, which moves very quickly away from a sense of dreary and

ANOTHER week, and Spongebob is still floating about at the cinema in his latest film. He’s rounded up all his pals for Spongebob: Sponge out of Water (Cert G, 92 mins) which is just as entertaining/ stupid as ever, depending on whether you’re a fan of the perennially popular poriferan. A barely recognisable Antonio Banderas (above) adds some pure ham to the mix.

The Salvation starts out as a western of grit and moral ambiguity but in the end there are no surprises, apart from a bit part by Eric Cantona

dour realism and into the cartoonish dichotomy of good and bad associated with westerns of yore.

Delarue is the classical antagonist, the bully that lauds over a little town by rule of fear.

He is so utterly wicked that when he hears the news of his brother’s death he shoots a sickly old woman in the head to punish the town for not catching the killer.

Eva Green enters as the mute widow of Delarue’s brother, and things do not bode well for the little town that is set to become the scene

of an inevitable bloody showdown.

Mikkelsen has a great face for cold-blooded revenge, and Dean Morgan enjoys hamming it up at the ultimate bad guy. Green doesn’t say a word, but still remains a formidable presence throughout the film.

Buckets of blood and sideways looks aside, there’s a stylistic similarity between the two films – in some scenes The Salvation seems to feature heavy post-production effects, inducing a hypedup visual style.

Aesthetically it works,

though the fact that film switches back and forth between this extra-stylised look doesn’t.

There are no surprises (aside from a bit part for Eric Cantona), but predictability is not necessarily a bad thing. The end result is a solid and entertaining film with good performances and some nice set pieces.

Not aiming to redefine the genre, The Salvation is a throwback to the good old days of horses and guns, crime and retribution, good guys and bad guys.

Verdict: 6/10

GET HARD

Last and least ...

KEVIN Hart and Will Ferrell team up for a generally slated comedy that has annoyed lots of people with some of its content.

In Get Hard (Cert 16, 100 mins), a spoilt, pampered investment manager has to “get hard” to cope with prison life as his upcoming incarceration approaches – and a streetwise car washer becomes his unlikely coach. Its cheap shots and dated comedy make it hard to like.

MUSIC: SINGER-SONGWRITER JAMES BAY RELEASES HIS DEBUT ALBUM

A storm of interest over Chaos and The Calm  COLM MURRAY

SINGER-songwriter James Bay has enjoyed a steady trajectory since releasing his first of three EPs back in the summer of 2013, becoming a YouYube star along the way.

Now, with the release of his debut album – Chaos and The Calm – dovetailing nicely with a Critics’ Choice award at The Brits last month, the real work begins.

Bay, though, had put the spade work in long before receiving these once coveted nods.

Having cut his teeth at Brighton Institute of Modern Music and playing open mic nights and anywhere that would allow him his 15 minutes, the new “cat in the hat” had a foundation for a long player.

The 24-year-old is oft-times lumped with the current crop of young British male singer-songwriters – Tom Odell and Ben Howard – while being linked to previously emerging soloists such as Paolo Nutini and James Blunt.

Here, on Chaos and Calm, Bay opens with the upbeat Craving, depicting the town he was gagging to

get out of.

The tempo is maintained for the current radio hit, Hold back the river, with both tunes setting the soft rock and slick production tone (co-written by one-time Snow Patrol collaborator and producer, Iain Archer).

With second single, Let It Go, Bay displays his vocal range from falsetto to balladeer crooner with subtle guitar picking to support.

From here, his wispy, delicate ballads augment titles such as If You Ever Want To Be In Love, Best Fake Smile, and When We Were On Fire,

tipping a nod to the like of James Taylor and Bryan Adams along the way (the latter in terms of AOR sincerity).

The album ebbs and flows without ever doing much in between, and while there is at times intent here, it appears smothered by both the sterile production values.

The album was part recorded in Nashville, but there is very little to suggest this apart from the sleeve

notes.

Totalling 15 songs (including three bonus tracks), it could be considered a double album in years gone by.

The last couple of numbers are tender yet inoffensive, and by the end you are not clamouring to hit repeat.

As debuts go, it sits comfortably between safe and grand, and no doubt will go on to go platinum (whatever that may be these days) ...

26 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 16 April 2015

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28 Gazette 16 April 2015

SPORT Egan set to swap fists for wheels

FastSport

cycling: olympic boxing legend takes on annual laurels crew ride

Brookfield win two titles at DLTC finals:

IT PROVED a grand slam day of tennis for Brookfield ladies last week as they won both the DLTC Class 4 and Class 7 Winter League’s in Templeogue Tennis Club.

In the Class 4 final, Brookfield defeated Naas 2-0, with Mairead Wales and Aoife Monaghan beating Patrice Clancy and Caroline Phelan 6-2 and 7-5, and Louise O’Reilly and Patricia Orr overcoming Margaret Hughes and Maire Morrin by the same scoreline.

In the Class 7 showdown, Brookfield won 2-0, this time against Newtown Park. Mary Carty and Elizabeth Murray beat Niamh Forde and Ali Guy 1-6, 7-6, 6-4, while Sandra Maguire and Melanie O’Hanlon defeated Marie Anne McCusker and Nuala Collins 6-1, 6-2.

At Class 6 level, Glasnevin beat Wicklow with wins for the pairings of Wendy O’Hara and Aisling Patterson and Miriam Salmon and Maureen Curley.

 nathan kelly sport@dublingazette.com

FOR most of his life, Kenneth Egan’s obstacles came in the form of two fists. But for the past eight weeks, his challenge has been in the form of two

wheels.

The silver medal winning Olympic boxer has spent the past two months training for this year’s Laurels Charity Crew annual cycle from Galway to Dublin and the final journey takes

Egan shows his battle scars from a collision

place this Saturday.

Is he ready for the 160km trip when he sees the crew of about 300 people arrive back at the Laurel’s pub on Sunday afternoon?

“I can’t wait,” he said.

“All the work is done now. I know I’ll be able to do the cycle.

“We did 130km last week; I still get my bit of running and weights in so my fitness is good.

“I’m not as fit as I used to be obviously but I’m sure I’ll be fit enough for the cycle.”

Having hung up his gloves, and reiterating during our interview there is no chance of a “Kenny comeback”, why get involved in such a gruelling event of a cycle from Galway to Dublin?

Kenneth Egan with the Laurels Charity Crew during their training

Training for the event takes up around five or six hours every Saturday, so what prompted the Fine Gael councillor for South County Dublin, now training to be an addiction counsellor, to get involved?

“First of all, I was here last year, when the crew came home,” he said.

“I remember it was a beautiful sunny Sunday.

I had just been elected as a councillor and I wanted to be there for the homecoming of the cycle.

“All the local councillors were there. There was a great atmosphere in the village when they all came in together, a couple of hundred people, and I said to myself that I’d love to give it a go next year and that was it.”

Egan has had the full experience of a cyclist in his short time on the bike.

He’s had a fall which left an eight-inch graze on his arm, a bruised hip, and a puncture which caused him to borrow a tube mid-cycle.

He also told the story of not wearing padded shorts for the first few weeks of training, only to be looked at like he “had 10 heads”, by a fellow rider when he found out.

But has the experience given him a different view of the sport?

He replied: “I’m not going to lie, before, when I was driving the car, I used to be cursing cyclists.

“Just the usual stuff like they’re holding up the show, pulling out, and

they’ve no respect and all that. But now, being a cyclist, well not a cyclist, but someone who cycles, I’ve a new found respect for it.

“It’s not just the physical aspect, it’s so mentally demanding.

“The amount of time you spend on the bike, it’s almost half your day, and the negative thoughts that come into your head on a regular basis when you hit a hard spot and the legs are getting tired and you’ve nothing in the engine craving food.

“It’s tough, there were times were I felt like throwing the bike into a bush and getting one of the lads to collect me, but I’m glad I stuck it out and can’t wait for the weekend.”

Great Ireland Run draws record entry list once again  sport@dublingazette.com

Irish athletes Mark English and Fionnuala Britton were among the stars to promote the Great Ireland Run

INTERNATIONAL athletes joined famous faces and thousands of runners last Saturday for a superb race at the Phoenix Park in Dublin, the 13th staging of the SPAR Great Ireland Run. The 10k event is the only run in Ireland to be awarded silver label status from the International Association of Athletics Federations in recognition of its high standard of organisation, elite participation and media profile.

The 10km once again featured a superb field of international

distance runners. Kenyan Japhet Korir retained his title by winning in 28 minutes and 15 seconds.

The women’s champion was Britain’s Gemma Steel in 33 minutes and three seconds followed closely by a fantastic performance from double European cross country champion Fionnuala Britton, who came second in 33 minutes and seven seconds.

The SPAR Great Ireland Mile, meanwhile, was a hotly contested race in tough weather conditions with Britain’s Jonny Hay coming in at four minutes and 12 seconds followed very closely by Wouter

Ploegar in second place.

Famous faces taking part included Tony Audenshaw who plays Bob Hope in Emmerdale, Ryan Andrews who plays Sean Cassidy in Fair City and Irish model Roz Purcell, as well as representatives from the race’s official charity partner, The National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght.

The race also included the Athletics Association of Ireland 10km road championships which saw record entrants from club runners across the country as well as in the junior and mini events with over 1,200 children

taking part.

The 2015 SPAR Great Ireland Run also gave runners the chance to represent their county in the All Ireland County Challenge competition for the Ronnie Delany Trophy and this year’s fastest county was Sligo with an average time of 50 minutes and 50 seconds.

To qualify, each county must have had at least five registered runners and the winner was determined by the fastest average time of each county’s competitors, using chip finishing time technology.

16 April 2015 Gazette 29

Gazette

Dunphy living the freestyle dream

FastSport

Tom Dunphy tells STEPHEN FINDLATER how a simple foam and palette raft journey as an 11-year-old became a lifelong obsession as he prepares for his sixth world championships “JUST some palettes and a bit of foam!” The humble introduction of Tom Dunphy to a life on the river.

The Castleknock man has recently moved to Canada for a five-month preparation phase for his sixth world freestyle kayak championships following selection for the Irish team after trials in Limerick.

It’s a far cry from his first trip down the Liffey in 1997.

“It was just a homemade raft, lads floating down the river in the summer time. We were about 11, just bored with nothing to do and looking for adventure.

“We got as far as the weir at the Wild Water kayak club at Strawberry beds and decided our craft probably wasn’t the

right one!

“The gentleman cutting the grass there told us if we wanted to get into real paddling, here’s the phone number. And that was that; I went on a course and was hooked and put my life into it ever since.”

His arrival at Wild Water coincided with the birth of freestyle kayaking, a trick-based discipline where participants – similar to surfing – pull out from an eddy into a wave for a 45-second ride in which they perform as many twists, turns and trick variations as possible before getting scored.

Quickly evolving, aerial tricks and streamlined boats have become the basis of the sport and Dunphy has evolved with it. He made his interna-

Castleknock man Tom Dunphy in freestyle kayak action

tional debut at 15-yearsold with his good friend Maurice Kelleher, travelling to Spain for the world championships There, they kayaked against the professionals they watched in videos who travelled with coaches, masseurs and physios.

The Irish team lacked that support. “We did okay but never reached our potential. From there, we felt we could perform well as a team if we wanted to and so we tried to get more backing.

“It can sometimes be that it was so much effort to get there that some would treat it almost like a vacation.”

While he says that Ireland is a great base to get up and running in kayaking, the need to travel to compete at the highest

level is paramount.

“In Ireland, if it snowed here, everyone would snowboard or ski.

But it doesn’t, it rains. It’s unfortunate, therefore, that no one knows the great rivers we have.

“If it rains, within an hour, I can train whitewater with waterfalls in

ing.ie but sponsorship deals come primarily in the form of products rather than cash for flights.

But, having put his head down to get the money together, he has set up an ambitious plan to be in the best possible shape for this August’s

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

‘Living in the jungle with all the monkeys in the trees; it’s the only place you can train without worrying about money.’ - Tom Dunphy --------------------------------------------------------

the Wicklow mountains where there is a massive selection of class five rivers. For freestyle, there’s a great spot in Lucan by the Spa hotel.

“If you want to get to world class level, though, you do need to leave the country. I spent six summers in Canada, training on the best rivers over there.”

This has led to some fascinating journeys.

Indeed, for four months, he lived in the Ugandan jungle at the source of the River Nile with monkey in the trees.

He describes it as the “only place you can afford to train, not having to worry about money”, the only pressure that he sees in the sport.

Funding those trips is done via kayak instruction and shifts with raft-

world championships. “ I ’ ve n e ve r f u l l y reached my potential before but, now, I am putting everything aside.

I have a coach and am basing myself in Canada.”

He will arrive in Ottawa just in time for the ice to start breaking and the snow to melt.

“It’s a time we call ‘stake-out’ where the kayaking world migrates to a mecca of the sport.

We’ll get a place close to the river and get focused on training.”

From there, the north American season will start in earnest with the Level 6 Cup with regular competition building up to August where Dunphy aims to peak, a world away from his simple foam and palette construction.

European Youth Festival comes to Terenure RFC TERENURE RFC will host the hugely popular Under-13 European Youth Rugby Festival from Friday, May 1 to Sunday, May 3.

This is the fourth year of the competition and will involve teams from Wales, England, France, Belgium and Ireland.

The international festival is quite unique and aims to be the biggest and best European youth rugby festival, featuring teams from across the continent being pitted against one another.

This takes place in both a league and knock-out format on full sized pitches with fully qualified IRFU referees and maximum game time.

The festival gives Under-13s the chance to develop lasting friendships with teams from Ireland and all over Europe.

There will also be an international match played on the Saturday between an Ireland XV and Rest of Europe XV. The games will take place between 10am to 4pm on Saturday and on Sunday, the matches begin at 9.45 am with the cup final kicking off at 2.45pm.

Apart from the feast of rugby on the pitch, the festival offers plenty of family entertainment off the pitch too with food, drink and entertainment available at the venue and celebrity guests popping in throughout the weekend.

Friday evening kicks off the festivities in the marquee with a top magician and the now infamous Irish Dance Experience; this event is free of charge, open to all ages and there is no advance booking required.

On Saturday night, an over 18s ticket only event will include the fabulous Abbaesque and BeeGees live tribute bands playing in the marquee followed by a disco.

More details about these events are available on the festival website and Facebook page.

Gazette

30 dublin city gazette 16 April 2015

SPORT

FastSport

rugby: young munster break up dublin ubl dominance

Railway complete IHL line-up for 2015-16 RAILWAY Union completed the line-up for the 2015-16 men’s Irish Hockey League as they beat Instonians and UCC at Grange Road over the course of the weekend.

The Sandymount club opened up with a 1-0 win on Friday night against Inst with Rob Abbott getting the only goal of the game with a smart deflection in the first half – his 104th and potentially last goal for the team as he steps away from senior hockey to pursue an umpiring career.

While Railway bossed most of the game, they were unable to take more of their chances leaving the game in the mix until the final stages when Inst won a pair of corners. Both were blocked, though, to secure the result.

The Ulster side’s chances were formally ended on Saturday when they, without the services of Paul Gleghorne, were beaten 3-0 by UCC. Wes Brownlow’s drag-flick opened the scoring in the second half before Fionn O’Leary fired home with a backhand strike. Stuart Miller completed the win with a rebound from O’Leary’s initial shot.

It left Railway needing a win while UCC could afford a draw in the final meeting on Sunday. The Dubliners, though, were all but home and hosed by half-time after a first half blitz.

James Dick scored inside a minute before the students equalised via Adam O’Callaghan. But four more first half goals from Railway – two from Jeff Spillane, a Kenny Carroll corner and one from Mark English – built a 5-1 lead.

UCC got one back early in the second half but Spillane completed his hat trick with his second penalty stroke and Eddie Dore closed out their tally at seven, the final score ending 7-3.

Railway complete the line-up for the new, expanded competition and become one of just three clubs to have a women’s and men’s team at the highest level in the country.

Near neighbours Pembroke and Cork Harlequins are the other two teams.

Pembroke’s women are currently preparing to represent Ireland in European club competition in May while their men’s season ended in the IHL semi-final last Saturday, losing 2-1 to Banbridge.

Lansdowne and Clontarf are set for the Ulster Bank League playoffs. Picture: Deryck Vincent

Cookies crumble Lansdowne  sport@dublingazette.com

YOU N G Mu n s t e r pipped Old Belvedere and UCD to the final Ulster Bank League Division 1A playoffs, denying an all-Dublin line-up with Lansdowne, Clontarf and Terenure already qualified.

The Cookies will meet Lansdowne in the final four, playing the side they beat last weekend to ensure their place in the playoffs as their 15-5 victory gave them the result they needed.

Their latest clash was rather listless until late on in the first half when Lansdowne prop Adam

Boland was sin-binned.

Boland was scarcely off the pitch when Young Munster’s powerful pack capitalised.

With a combined effort, they drove over the Lansdowne line and prop Paul Allen touched down. Gearoid Lyons, the place-kicking centre, added the conversion for a 7-0 half-time lead.

The Young Munster faithful were delighted to see their side tag on another try early in the second half. Promising winger Diarmaid McCarthy raced clear from near halfway for a fine opportunistic score to

fai senior cup draw Killester face Dunboyne while Crumlin meet Cork killester United, pictured, will face

Dunboyne FC while Crumlin United travel to Cork to play College Corinthians in the first round of the FAI Senior Cup following this week’s draw.

Tolka Rovers, Liffey Wanderers and Sheriff YC are the three Dublin based clubs to secure a bye into the second round of the famous competition.

The first round ties will be played over the weekend ending Sunday April 26, with replays being played a week later.

give his side a 12-point advantage.

The return of Boland steadied Lansdowne and with 21 minutes left on the clock, they got back within striking distance thanks to an unconverted try in the corner from scrum half Paddy O’Driscoll.

However, with results elsewhere going their way, Munsters made sure of their fourth place finish with a well-struck 77th minute penalty from Lyons.

Clontarf plundered a 33-18 bonus point win at Ballynahinch to scupper the Ulster side’s chances of reaching the playoffs.

Tarf, who also beat Hinch 12 months ago to claim the league title, made the early running with tries from number 8 Anthony Ryan and recent Ireland Under-19 cap Conor O’Brien who joined the experienced Evan Ryan in the centre.

Outside centre Steve Macauley cancelled out a David Joyce effort to give Ballynahinch some hope at the break, trailing 17-8, and they reduced the arrears to 20-18 thanks to scores from inf luential duo Michael Graham and Rodger McBurney.

Howe ve r, A n d y

Wood’s charges replied with an Adrian D’Arcy try which full-back Rob Keogh converted.

The latter went on to play a crucial role in seeing out the win, slotting two final penalties to give his side a 15-point winning margin.

UCD held onto their Division 1A status with a well-earned 10-3 triumph away to Cork Constitution.

T he students may have finished two points away from a semi-final berth, but maintaining their presence in the top flight was all that mattered in a nervy encounter with the Leesiders.

16 April 2015 DUBLIN CITY gazette 31

Gazette

Dublin ladies through to league semis  sport@dublingazette.com

LAST year’s beaten finalists Dublin hammered Cork 5-14 to 2-7 to make it through to the semi-finals of the Tesco Homegrown ladies football national league last weekend.

Gregory McGonigle’s charges defeated the holders at CIT to book their spot in the last four,

in what was a repeat of last year’s league and AllIreland deciders.

With Monaghan losing to Kerry in the final round of group fixtures, Dublin’s fourth win of the campaign saw them leapfrog the Ulster outfit to keep their league hopes alive.

Dublin will now play Galway in the semi-fi-

nals, with Munster rivals Cork and Kerry renewing acquaintances in the other game.

Nicole Owens netted twice for Dublin against Cork, with Noelle Healy, Hannah Noonan – who ended with 1-1 – and Kim Flood the other goal scorers.

Carla Rowe weighed in with five points while

captain Lyndsey Davey added three more and A my C o n n o l l y a n d Niamh McEvoy landed two apiece in a breathtaking display from the capital team.

Valerie Mulcahy and Doireann O’Sullivan scored consolation goals in the second half for Cork, who were 0-2 to 3-9 behind at half-time.

FastGAA

Camogie: st enda’s cling on to narrow final win

Brogan and O’Carroll aim for national league return

The victorious Ballyboden St Enda’s Feile side that won the club’s tenth title at this level

Boden pip Sarsfields to Division 1 Feile title division 1 feile final Ballyboden St Enda’s Lucan Sarsfields  sport@dublingazette.com

3-2 2-3

THIRTY-FOUR seconds into the Division 1 final, Lucan Sarsfields snatched a tonic start with a goal from Carla Delmar at O’Toole Park last Sunday.

But they never got the chance to build a platform from that score as, within a minute, Ballyboden had levelled.

A piece of individual brilliance by Hollyn Kennedy who controlled a long delivery in the air with the stick, took pos-

session and made some ground before firing to the net off her left side.

Lucan never gave up and with Heather Kenny playing soundly at fullback they regained the lead in the eighth minute with a point from a free by captain Aoife Mahon.

Throughout the field, Boden were showing well Saoirse Hassett pulled a mighty ball out of the clouds and Faye O’Reilly did superbly to deny Kennedy another goal.

But she would not be stopped and when Saoirse Fitzgerald sent a long effort goalwards, the Boden sharpshooter was

on hand to first time to the net.

Aisling Byrne subsequently provided a clever pass to Kennedy for an excellently worked point.

When Katie McDonald drove over a free on the 20th minute, Boden had amassed a 2-2 to 1-1 lead at the break.

It required a big comeback and Chloe O’Connor and Laura Quinn were leading the Lucan charge and, in the 25th minute, a free from Aoife Mahon cut the gap to just a goal.

Boden maintained their composure, though, and earned a close range free which Katie McDonald

shot low shot to the net for a crucial goal.

Lucan continued their assault and when the hardworking Laura Quinn was fouled in the box, they were awarded a penalty with two minutes of normal time remaining.

Aoife Mahon’s wellstruck shot was brilliantly saved by Katie McDonald as was the rebound by Ally Ramsden. Lucan staged one more rally and a brilliant effort from Laura Quinn just cleared the line but it was just too late as Boden held to claim the club’s 10th Dublin Feile Division 1 crown.

BERNARD Brogan and Rory O’Carroll are expected to be fit for the NFL Division 1 final against Cork on April 26 in Croke Park.

Both missed out on Sunday’s semi-final victory over Monaghan at GAA headquarters but are on the comeback trail and could potentially play some role as Dublin face Galway in a senior football challenge in Skerries on Sunday at 2pm.

Manager Jim Gavin is keen for his side to make a series of improvements, though, and he highlighted several areas for improvement for his side from the Monaghan game.

“Our core skills which we apply ourselves to in our practice sessions; our hand-passing, our tackling were a bit sloppy,” said Gavin in the wake of Sunday’s narrow victory over Monaghan.

“They’re the basics of our game and they let us down. Once that didn’t go right for us, we turned the ball over a lot and gave Monaghan a chance to penetrate against us.

“We’re trying to give players more game-time and build towards that end. Certainly when you look at our first couple of games in the league we have tried a lot of players, and tried to give them game time.

“We tried a few new things, some have worked, some haven’t and that’s part of the growth side that any team wants.

“We understand that if we remain static, if we don’t grow, teams will pass us. There’s a challenge in that itself. Some of our performances haven’t been up to what we’d like, as in today’s performance wasn’t what it should have been.

“Somehow we got the result and I won’t say we’re happy for it, but we’re glad for an extra game.”

Admittance for the challenge match on Sunday is by ticket only; adult tickets are €10 and U-16s tickets are free. Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult when receiving their ticket.

Tickets are currently on general sale on from the Skerries Harps clubhouse from 8pm each night.

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32 dublin city gazette 16 April 2015