Dun Laoghaire

Laoghaire GAZET TE FREE

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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Local book lovers rejoice at two new libraries: Page 5

April 14, 2011

BOYS’ BATHS: Primary school kids

develop a plan for local landmark: P3

Elegant attire: Students dress up for a show EMMA Foran had a lovely haute

Dublin: Double date in Cork for senior players Page 32

couture hoodie at the recent Sallynoggin College of Further Education spring/summer fashion show held at Tripod in the city centre, where she was joined by Orlaith Carr, Victoria Carney, Carol Dalton and Janine Hopkins to model some of the latest trends and glamorous styles. The elegant young ladies were also helping the college to fundraise for a charity.

Picture: Peter Doyle

Full Gallery on Pages 6-7

Football: Iosagain make history with AllIreland victory Page 31

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ..................... 2 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Conservation grant is ‘paused’ for 2011 Council confirms that new fund is to replace scheme

Q LAURA WEBB

FUNDING for the Conservation Grants Scheme for protected structures is being “paused”, with a “structure at risk” fund being introduced in its place for 2011.

A spokesperson for Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Coun-

ty Council said the council received confirmation from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government that the local authority Conservation Grants Scheme for protected structures is being paused for 2011.

The report said: “In light of this, the Department has just

introduced a new scheme, entitled the Structures at Risk Fund, which is to run for the 2011 financial year.

“Only structures in immediate danger of significant deterioration will qualify for consideration for funding by the Department.”

Full Story on Page 8

2 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 14 April 2011

ENTERPRISE: CONCERN FOR SHANKILL FACILITY

SPORT Dun Laoghaire hosting BLI presidency in ’11

Fresh appeal

by Mitchell O’Connor to maintain ATM Q NATALIE BURKE

dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

FINE Gael deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor is supporting the Shankill Traders’ Group in their campaign to save a local ATM, and is seeking an explanation for its proposed removal.

According to Deputy Mitchell O’Connor, the Bank of Ireland ATM is the only external cash machine serving the Shankill area out of business hours, and its potential removal will ensure significant damage to business in the village.

“I am appealing to Bank of Ireland in the strongest possible terms to maintain their ATM in Shankill, which, according to research conducted by the Shankill Traders’ Group, is an extremely busy and well-used cash machine,” said Deputy Mitchell O’Connor.

According to the recently conducted research, the ATM receives an average of 2,500 hits per week, distributing an estimated €80,000 to local residents and businesses, and the group is unclear of the reasons behind the bank removing it.

Deputy Mitchell O’Connor added: “I am a strong believer

in the concept of ‘shopping local’.

“I know that if the residents of Shankill have to travel further afield to a larger shopping centre in order to get cash, it will mean they may be more likely to do their shopping outside of Shankill village.

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‘Businesses and traders in Shankill are struggling.

This proposed removal of the ATM

by Bank of Ireland will significantly worsen an already difficult situation.’

Presidents of their assocations: Jim McIlroy, NIPBA; John O’Sullivan, BLI; Rose Marie Brown, DLBC; Wilbur Cockcroft, NIPGL; Keith Davey, NIBA and Chris Wallace, IBA. Pictures: Peter Doyle

Prestigious day for bowlers EMBERS could have been forgiven for feeling bowled over with delight when Dun Laoghaire Bowling Club unfurled the Bowling League of Ireland (BLI) flag at the club’s lawn bowling green in Moran Park recently, marking the club’s holding of the presidency of the BLI for 2011 – the third time in the club to do so in its 46-year history.

M

The momentous occasion was followed by a match between the President’s selection of Dun Laoghaire bowlers and a team representing the BLI, including bowlers from both the North and South of Ireland.

The members certainly had plenty to celebrate, with a busy year of events ahead for the esteemed club, which is happy to welcome new members.

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Deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor, Fine Gael

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“Businesses and traders in Shankill are already struggling. This proposed removal of the ATM by Bank of Ireland will significantly worsen an already difficult situation.

“Furthermore, Bank of Ireland’s timing couldn’t be worse, considering they are also closing their ATM in Kill o’the Grange,” she said.

Liam Sellars, Roy Brown, Fred Schmidt and George Flynn

Brian Kane, Mark Brown and Alan Drennan

Rose Marie Brown, president, Eddie Jackson and John O’Sullivan

Dun Laoghaire Bowling Club

Members and presidents alike enjoyed the day’s ceremonies

John O’Sullivan raises the BLI flag

14 April 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 3

COMMUNITY Primary school pupils develop interesting proposal POLITICS: DECISION

PBPA call for action Q NATALIE BURKE

dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

Fifth-class students from Harold Boys’ National School in Dalkey have designed this concept for what they think should be done with the derelict building

Boys’ plan could be focus for new baths project Q STEVE GILLMAN dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

THE Dun Laoghaire baths have been the source of much debate over recent years, but it could be down to some fifthclass students to finally settle the discussion.

Harold Boys’ National School in Dalkey have designed a proposal for what they think should be done to the derelict building.

The boys’ proposal is based around a low-rise building that has two high-standard swimming pools in it.

The first pool will be a 25-metre pool on one side of the building, while the other pool will open out into a sea water pool with a beach area.

The entire structure will be operated by sustainable energy that includes wind power, wave power and solar power.

Harold Boys’ proposal is a part of an engineering competition called Xperience, run

by STEPS, an engineering

group.

They run these competitions every year, and this one was aimed at primary school fifth- and sixth-classes.

Architect Simone Stephenson is the project coordinator of the boys’ proposal.

Speaking to the Gazette about the project, she said: “The aim of the competition is to design something that is sustainable; designing something for a greener, cleaner world.

“The whole aim of the project is to teach the boys about insulation, and the different types of energy out there.”

However, the primar y school’s proposal has taken an interesting turn, and may have out-grown the competition.

It all began when one of the boys asked Stephanie what were the chances of their vision for the baths getting built.

She said: “My initial

response was, ‘I wouldn’t say it’s very likely’, but then one of the boys met [PBPA Deputy] Richard Boyd Barrett, and he said he was planning to do something with the baths.

“So, then I thought that we designed this proposal, so we might as well put it forward.

“We invited the councillors and the people from Dun Laoghaire to the launch [of our project for the baths’ future],” she said.

Deputy Boyd Barrett, who has been a dedicated campaigner to save the baths in Dun Laoghaire, has now told the school that he will be in attendance for the launch of Harold Boys’ proposal for the baths.

This is a case of hard work paying off for Stephenson and all the boys involved in the project.

“A huge amount of effort has been put into it. We are ready to go; we have a scheme and we want to show it to people,” she said.

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LOCAL members of the People Before Profit Alliance (PBPA) are still waiting on a decision with regard to the recent move to disqualify Melisa Halpin from being co-opted to Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council.

A spokesperson for the PBPA said: “We are still pursuing a couple of various challenges, and we’ve written a series of [official] letters, so we’re still waiting on a response.”

Halpin was originally co-opted to replace Richard Boyd Barrett, who was elected as a TD for the Dun Laoghaire constituency, but her position was declared ineligible last week as she is employed by Dublin City Council.

The PBPA have contested the decision, on the grounds that Halpin was on leave from the council at the time of her co-option. The party is awaiting a final decision.

4 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 14 April 2011

PLANNING ‘Excessive’ fees – Mitchell

Call to reduce levy costs Q NATALLIE BURKE dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

FINE Gael TD for Dublin South, Olivia Mitchell is calling on the Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan, to reduce development levies being charged by local authorities.

According to Deputy Mitchell, the excessive levies introduced during the Celtic Tiger are now preventing pri-

vate sector business expansion and job creation.

“It is no surprise that the fall-off in construction activity accelerated further in March.

“Latest figures show that the sector was forced to cut purchasing and jobs as a result of the continuing decline.

“The previous Fianna Failled Government fuelled the property bubble by loading all infrastructure costs on to new-build projects, and local

authorities were encouraged to approve excessive developments in order to fund a growing list of infrastructure requirements.

“This model obviously won’t work for the future. A more sustainable funding system for infrastructure needs to be identified.

“Businesses need to be encouraged, not stifled, in this extremely challenging economic environment,” she said.

Members of South Dublin Services (SDS) business networking group launching an appeal for LauraLynn Sunshine Home at Fitzpatrick’s Castle, Killiney, were Niall Delaney, public relations consultant; Laurence Power, chairman, SDS and Tom O’Higgins, local estate agent. Picture:Michael O’Farrell Photography

Sunshine Home needs walkers Q NATALIE BURKE dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

“PLEASE make the sun shine for very sick children in Leopardstown” is the simple appeal from a locally established business networking group, who are calling on walkers to join them in a 10km walk on Sunday, May 15.

The group of south Dublin business people who make up South Dublin Services, are appealing for more people to join them in their fundraising event, in order to raise muchneeded funds for Ireland’s first children’s hospice, due for completion this year in Leopardstown, Co Dublin.

“We are asking people to give just two hours of their time on Sunday, May 15 to help improve the lives of seriously sick children by walking 10km to raise money for the new LauraLynn Hospice,” says

Niall Delaney, public relations officer for South Dublin Services business network.

“Every sponsored walker can make a precious contribution, a contribution towards bricks and mortar that will last a lifetime and beyond.”

The LauraLynn Children’s Hospice Foundation was set up 10 years ago, as a result of Jane and Brendan McKenna suffering the loss of both their daughters, Laura and Lynn, within two years of each other.

The hospice is due for completion this year and is counting on funds raised to help them open their doors of support for families and parents of children with life-limiting illnesses.

The charity walk will start from Fitzpatrick’s Castle in Killiney at 11 am on Sunday May 15, and Niall hopes more members of the community

and the surrounding areas will join them on the day.

“We hope that many people will join with us and in heartfelt thanks, the names of all those who help with his charity walk will be displayed at the new hospice for sick children.

Every cent raised by our walkers will go directly to the hospice fund.”

South Dublin Services was only recently established as a self-help group of business and trades people in the south Dublin and Wicklow area, who are intent on beating the recession by working hard and referring work to one another. With 25 members already, the group is open to new participants. Visit www.southdublinservices.ie for more details.

To take part in the walk, and for more information on getting sponsorship, contact Niall on 01 287 3821 or email niall@ delaneycommunications.com.

14 April 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 5

COMMUNITY New chapter in learning opens at two schools

Tammy Kavanagh and Ross Tansey, a St Columbanus pupil

Paul Howard – better known as “Ross O’Carroll-Kelly” author – is joined by An Cathaoirleach, Councillor Lettie McCarthy and enthusiastic readers, Mary Banks, Joan Valkenberg, Kaye Godfrey, Deirdre O’Reilly, Kaye Morrison, Anne Murray, Anne Wallace, Patricia O’Connor and Kaye Morrissey at the opening of a new community library at St Columbanus National School

Deirdre O’Reilly loves learning at local libraries

From Foxrock to a hardback Q STEVE GILMAN

dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

T WO n e w c o m m u n i t y libraries opened in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown within a week, thanks to the combined effort of local residents, schools, the county council and the RAPID programme – the Government initiative introduced in 2002 that aims to narrow the social gap that exists in the most disadvantaged urban areas in the country.

The first library was opened on April 7 in St Columbanus

National School by An Cathaoirleach, Councillor Lettie McCarthy, and Paul Howard, a former pupil of the school – and author of the Ross O’Carroll-Kelly series.

The second library opened on the April 12 in Holy Child Community School, beside Sallynoggin Church.

Both libraries were opened, thanks to the work of dedicated local residents, who were passionate about having a library within walking distance in their community.

Mairead Owens, County

Librarian said: “I am confident that many people from the community will avail of the new services offered by these community libraries.

“We in DLR Libraries are looking forward to supporting the volunteers however we can.”

Sallynoggin Community Library is open six hours a week; from 4-6pm on Tuesdays and Fridays, and from 6-8pm on Thursdays.

Loughlinstown Community Library is open every Wednesday and Thursday from 3-4pm.

There’s almost too much choice for Howard to take in at the new library as Cllr McCarthy and St Columbanus pupils, Kim Versey and Sabria Khan, choose some reading matter for him

6 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 14 April 2011

EVENT

Sallynoggin College of Further Education students

A show of fine fashion

HE latest fashion trends were shown off when students of Fashion Industry Practice of Sallynoggin College of Futher Education presented their Spring/Summer Fashion event at Tripod on Harcourt Street on March 31. The show featured clothing from Dundrum Town Centre, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre, including The Loft, and from a selection of Irish designers and fashion businesses.

A donation was made to the charity Dress for Success, which supports underprivileged women to access employment.

T

Orlaith Carr, Victoria Carney, Emma Foran, Carol Dalton and Janine Hopkins. Picture: Peter Doyle

Hair and make-up artists Leila Callan, Maria Murphy Eoin Johnson, Conall Murray and Dolapo Lawal

and Karen Hurley, styling tutor

Hannah Dowling and Michelle Connolly

Danielle O’Brien, Jillian Fagan, Lindsay Savage and Karen Fagan

Danielle McGrath, Niamh Crawford, Jennifer Dowling, Sheenagh Walker and Ciara Menton

14 April 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 7

show off the very best of fashion trends at Tripod

Fred Meaney, principal, and Sinead Connolly

Angela Osondu, Alan Fisher and Ashleigh Moynan

Ciara Lee, Deborah Murray, Sinead Ellis and Amy Lee

Leanne Doyle and Laura Poutch

8 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 14 April 2011

GARDAI: RESULTS

‘Nothing suspect about death of woman’ Q NATALIE BURKE dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

GARDAI have confirmed that the circumstances surrounding the discovery of the body of a 52-year-old woman in Rathfarnham on Sunday, April 10, is not being treated as suspicious.

A post-mortem examination on the body of Peggy Maloney, who was found dead in her home in Loreto Park in Rathfarnham on Sunday morning, showed nothing suspicious about her death, according to a spokesperson for the Garda Press Office.

Gardai alerted Gardai were called to the house shortly before 10am, after being alerted by the Dublin Fire Brigade that the body of a woman had been found.

Forensics experts arrived at the house after an ambulance was called, and the body was then removed.

The post-mortem examination took place in Tallaght Hospital.

COUNCIL Change in approach to DLR conservation is criticised

Structure funding is ‘paused’ Q LAURA WEBB

dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

FUNDING for the conservation grants scheme for protected structures is being “paused” this year, with a “structure at risk” fund being introduced in its place for 2011.

In a report to councillors this week, a spokesperson for Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) said the council received confirmation from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government that the local authority conservation grants scheme for protected structures is being paused for 2011.

The report said: “In light of this, the Department has just introduced a new scheme, entitled the Structures at Risk fund, which is to run for the 2011 financial year.

“Details of the scheme, including application forms and full details of eligibility for

the fund, are available now on the Conservation Section of the council’s website at www. dlrcoco.ie/conservation/.

“Only structures in immediate danger of significant deterioration will qualify for consideration for funding by the department.

“The works proposed in any application should be -----------------------------------------------

‘I have always believed that we need to assist the custodians of these buildings’ -----------------------------------------------

Cllr Victor Boyhan, Ind

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

fully described and illustrated in accordance with best practice, as outlined in the Department’s architectural heritage protection guidelines for planning authorities (2004),” said the report.

It continued: “Furthermore,

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council headquarters

any works proposed must be specified and overseen by appropriately-qualified conservation professionals.

“Due to the limited resources available for the operation of this fund, no more than two applications per local authority will be considered by the Department by the deadline of 4pm, April 29.

“The closing date of receipt of valid applications by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is Wednesday, April 20,” said the report.

The council was responding to a motion put down by Independent councillor, Victor Boyhan, who called on

the Minister of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Phil Hogan, to confirm what funding allocation would be made to the council in relation to conservation grants for 2011.

Disappointed that the grant funding was cut without prior notice, Cllr Boyhan said: “Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown is fortunate to have a wide and varied collection of heritage properties that are listed as protected structures.

“I have always believed that we need to assist the custodians of these architectural buildings.

“I accept that public funds

are extremely tight. I am particularly disappointed that the grant funding has been cut this year, without any prior notice.

“The council has already advertised the grant scheme, and applicants have held off commencing essential works, depending on this year’s grant allocations,” he said.

Cllr Boyhan is now calling on the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government to consider a 0% VAT rate for building materials for approved conservation works, as a possible way to address funding for protected structures.

14 April 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9

10 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 14 April 2011

FastNews Stena set for increase in passengers AFTER the recent announcement that the Stena Line will be recommencing the service of the HSS Stena Explorer on its Dun Laoghaire to Holyhead route this month, larger numbers of foot passengers will be provided for during the busy summer period.

The reintroduction of the boat will provide Stena Line with the ability to handle a higher volume of foot passengers, and fares will be starting from as little as €134 single for a car plus driver, with additional adults being able to travel for just €28. Children will be able to travel for as little as €16, while infants under the age of three years old can travel free.

For more information, visit www.stenaline.ie or call Stena Line on 01 204 7777.

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party returns thanks to DLR A WHITE rabbit, a Mad Hatter and a little girl called Alice will be hosting the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party in Deerpark in Mount Merrion on Easter Sunday from 1–5pm, in a fun day out hosted by DLR Events.

With tea cup rides, a giant chess and croquet game, as well as balloons, a hat walk and an organised Easter trail, the most famous scene from the much-loved Alice in Wonderland fable will be brought to life and everybody is invited to take part in the free family day out.

The event is an initiative by Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council and will feature creative workshops for the younger children, while all guests will be encouraged to dress up as one of the Alice in Wonderland characters, and wear the “maddest hat” possible as well as meeting characters straight from the story, at their Mad Hatterthemed picnic tables.

Portrait of the author: Toibin visits local exhibition LOCAL artist Barbara Graham of Blackrock, is pictured with artist Aidan Hickey (centre) and recent Irish Pen Award winner, Irish writer Colm Toibin.

Barbara, president of the Dublin Painting & Sketching Club, joined artist Aiden in giving Colm a preview of his portrait as created by Aiden.

The portrait is just one of the works being shown at the Dublin Painting & Sketching Club’s 133rd exhibition, currently open to the public at the Concourse Gallery, Dun Laoghaire County Hall, until Sunday, April 17.

The exhibition, a major national art show sponsored by Whyte’s and support-

ed by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council Arts Office, features more than 290 paintings, pastels and drawings by 77 well-known Irish contemporary artists, and carries a special literary theme this year to celebrate Dublin’s award as the City of Literature (UNESCO Award 2010).

FESTIVITIES: WHOLE COMMUNITY IS INVITED TO A DAY OF FAMILY FUN

School fete returns to Holy Child in Sallynoggin NATALIE BURKE dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

AFTER the success of their first school fete in 2009, the Holy Child Community School in Sallynoggin are already preparing for this year’s festivities, which will take place on Sunday, May 15.

The family day out will begin at 2pm and students, their families and their friends throughout the whole community are invited to take part in the many fun events organised for the day.

“The last fete we had was in 2009 and was our very first one and it went really well. We were hoping to

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‘A huge number of the community came to our fete the first year, and there was a great buzz around for the whole day. It was a big succes and people talked about it for weeks afterwards, so we’re hoping it will be even better this year’ ------------------------------------------------------------------

have it as an annual event but we were unable to have one last year. We’re hoping we can continue it from this year onwards,” school secretary Susan O’Neill told the Gazette.

The fete will take place from 2–5pm, and the school has organised many fun events for the day, including

a BBQ, a face-painting stand, books, CD and DVD stalls, as well as a plant stall with their own in-house “plant doctor”.

Sporting events, games and tournaments will also be taking place on the day, along with other events, such as a raffle, a wheel of fortune and a fun “auction” where toys and other donations, which

are almost new and in good condition, can be auctioned off to the highest bidder.

“A huge number of the community came to our fete the first year, and there was a great buzz around for the whole day. It was a big success and people talked about it for weeks afterwards, so we’re hoping it will be even better this year,” Susan said.

The school will welcome any unwanted gifts and donations the school can use as raffle prizes, or add to their stalls, and the money raised will go towards buying new equipment for the school.

“Times are different now, and people don’t have the money to buy a lot of things,

so coming along to the fete can be an inexpensive experience as well as a fun family day out,” says Aoife Scott, one of the organisers of the event.

“We’ve already sent invitations out to all our incoming first years and we are currently getting posters done up so we can spread the word throughout the whole community.

“We’re also planning on sending flyers to Loughlinstown, Bray and Shankill and further afield, so we welcome anyone who wants to come along on the day. Getting our profile out there with the local community is the most important thing,” Aoife said.

14 April 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

GazetteePets Gazett

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: DIFFERENT TYPES OF BARKING JUST A DOG’S WAY OF COMMUNICATING

Woof, why do dogs bark?

T never ceases to amaze me, the number of queries I receive concerning nuisance barking.

People often ask me: “Why does my dog bark?” The answer is straightforward and not difficult to understand – dogs bark because barking is their way of communicating.

They don’t bark to annoy you or to spite you, or just because they can – although it may appear that way if it’s driving your neighbours mad!

However, there are different types of barking, and you, as the pet parent, must familiarise yourself with them. For example:

I

The Alert

Dogs bark because barking is their way of communicating and they don’t bark to annoy you or to spite you or just because they can

This is the normal, expected barking to alert you there’s an intruder in the house. It’s perfectly natural for your dog to bark if he senses there’s a threat to his family or his territory. This is usually a loud, sharp bark and, if you hone in on this natural canine instinct with proper training, you can help your dog protect your home and your family.

Barking at other dogs

A dog down the road barks and before you know it your own pet, along with every other dog within earshot is involved in a dawn chorus.

Very annoying.

Playful, excited barking

More common in puppies who bark when playing. My own dogs bark excitedly when they know a car trip and a walk

is imminent. This type of bark normally sounds upbeat.

Nuisance barking

Then there’s the biggie – the behavioural problem or nuisance barking. This usually signals boredom, loneliness or miscommunication between owner and pet. If this type of barking is a problem, you need to recognise the triggers!

• When does it occur?

• Is the dog left alone for long periods of time?

• Is he getting enough exercise?

• Is he anxious about something he hears or sees? (neighbour has a new lawn mower and the noise is scaring him, neighbour’s child is tormenting him, etc.)

In order to address this, you will require plenty of patience and training with a specialist dog trainer for both you and your dog. This will help you understand “doggy” language, and then you can correctly express what it is you wish to communicate to your pet.

Many training techniques are based upon the dog receiving a reward for the desired action. In this case, for example, the desired action would be “stop barking”.

When your dog barks and you wish to make him stop, hold his muzzle gently or squirt him, again gently, with a child’s toy water gun filled only with clean water – this will momentarily startle him and make him stop barking.

When he stops, use the word “quiet”.

Immediately after saying “quiet” if the dog remains quiet, reward him. When he starts barking again, repeat the process. Eventually he will learn to associate “quiet” with a reward. Eventually, your dog will stop barking without the need for the water gun and only the use of the word “quiet” will be sufficient.

It sounds easy enough. I mean once you determine the cause of your dog’s excessive barking, you can try to remove any potential reasons and you can begin to control his behaviour. Also, it helps if you give your dog better things to do to prevent and distract him from nuisance barking.

Some of the things you should never do:

Never comfort, feed or pet your dog when they bark for attention or out of anxiety; this is simply rewarding his behaviour.

Never shout – this will only cause him to bark more and louder.

Never allow your dog to bark constantly outside, regardless of the reason – this is the best way to make enemies of your neighbours.

Never use a shock collar they are inhumane, painful and unkind to your dog.

Never allow your dog to become lonely or bored, and never leave him to his own devices for long periods of time.

So, it’s up to you. Develop that “barking ear”, and find out exactly what your dog is saying when he “woofs”, “howls” and “growls”.

And yes, it requires a lot of time and patience, but it’s well worth it because if you train man’s (and woman’s) best friend properly, you’re embarking on a lifetime’s investment for you and your pet.

For information log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie.

14 April 2011 GAZETTE 13

14 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

LIBRARY

CHARITY Lindt is unleashing their Gold Bunny Team

Lectures for small businesses

Hopping

Q CECILIA FOURIE

Q CECILIA FOURIE

ARE you an owner of a small business or thinking of starting one? Then head down to the Central Library in the Ilac Shopping Centre for the 2011 spring and autumn lectures.

There will be a series of six free lectures to assist new and existing small business owners and managers.

The series of lectures was announced by Dublin Libraries in association with Dublin City Enterprise Board.

The lectures are aimed at those who are contemplating self-employment. This year’s theme is Innovation for Startups.

The spring series of cecture will kick of on April 21 and the autumn series will start on September 15.

Places must be reserved.

For more information, and a complete timetable, visit www. dublincitypubliclibraries.ie or contact the Ilac Library at 01 873 3996 or email them at businesslibrary@dublincity.ie

LINDT is hopping into action again this year in aid of Temple Street. Lindt is unleashing their Gold Bunny Team for their Make Easter Sweet for Temple Street. The Gold Bunny Team will be selling small Lindt bunnies for €1 at their nationwide road shows, with every cent made going straight to Temple Street.

They will be hitting the road and heading to Blanchardstown Shopping Centre on Thursday, April 21. The trail will continue on to the Pavilion Shopping Centre on Friday, April 22, with their last stop being Dundrum Shopping Centre on Saturday, April 23.

Adding a bit of fun and games to this year, the team are selling Gold Bunny Hunt Packs for €15. The pack includes everything you need to host your very own bunny hunt. Not only will the entire €15 be donated to a good cause, but you will also be

RTE presenter Lucy Kennedy and the Golden Bunnies are helping to Make Easter Sweet for Temple Street

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‘We are thrilled to be helping such a worthwhile cause.

The team at Temple Street do an amazing job, and the children they care for deserve the best facilities possible’ -------------------------------

Grainne Galvin, marketing manager for Lindt -------------------------------

entered into a competition to win one of two amazing family holidays to the luxurious Fota Island Resort and Fota Wildlife Park in Cork worth €1,500 each!

Thrilled

“We are thrilled to be helping such a worthwhile cause.

The team at Temple Street do an amazing job and the children they care for deserve

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14 April 2011 GAZETTE 15

for their Make Easter Sweet for Temple Street

THEATRE

into action for kids

True story of love and loss

Lucy with Temple Street patients, five-year-old Ciara Gill from Dublin and four-year-old Anthony Iannucci from Sallynoggin

the best facilities possible.

This year we hope to raise as much money as possible for such a fantastic charity,” said Grainne Galvin, marketing manager for Lindt.

This year it is Lindt’s fourth Make Easter Sweet for Temple Street, and the Lindt committee has vowed to make this year sweeter than any other!

To celebrate the campaigns birthday they are hosting their very first Gold Bunny Hunt on Sunday, April 17 at Bewleys Hotel, in the heart of Ballsbridge.

Fun day out

This family fun day out will see Gold Bunny fans hopping from one activity to the next

with Gold Bunny Hunts, facepainting, bouncy-castle and Hamleys toy demonstrations.

If you’d like to come along just simply make a donation of €5 per person at the gate and every cent will go to Temple Street. The hunt will take place from 12–6 and no reservations are necessary.

The 2011 campaign will

focus on raising funds to build a dedicated isolation inpatient room at Temple Street.

This facility will enable children and babies with very low immune systems, or those who may be extra susceptible to infection, to be safely treated in a protective environment.

“We are delighted to be

working with the Lindt team again this year. We value their support and enthusiasm, and we would like to thank the team and those who support the Lindt Make Easter Sweet Campaign, you really are making a difference,” said Angela McNulty, special events manager, The Fundraising Office, Temple Street.

A CAST of great actors, including Dave Duffy from Fair City, star in Spanish poet Lorca’s Blood Wedding, showing in the Project Arts Centre this April.

Set in1928 in the Spanish province of Almeria, a young bride abandons her husbandto-be on the morning of her wedding to elope with her childhood sweetheart. With the town up in arms, the young lovers are hunted down with terrifying consequences.

Directed by Ronnie McCann, this is a true story set to an original score with a cast of over 20 actors, including Derek Murphy, Liam Halley, Laura Brennan and Noella Brennan. McCann has been a successful actor and director for 20 years.

Running from April 18-30, Blood Wedding is a meaty story of love, betrayal, marriage, affairs, murder and plenty of action.

It is showing in the Project Arts Centre and tickets are €15.

Phone 01 8819613 for tickets.

16 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day Grape escape: Vintage win for Olive THE lucky winners of this month’s Marlay Wine Shop competition collected their prizes in the shop on the Grange Road in Rathfarnham last week.

The first prize in the competition, a case of wine worth €150, went to Sean McGovern.

Pictured here is enthusiastic Gazette reader and talented local photogrpaher, Olive Galbraith, picking up her prize, a case of wine worth €75.

Also pictured is Donal Tuomey, the owner of Marlay Wine Shop and kind sponsor of the competition. Local wine lovers should make a point of visiting Marlay Wines to see the impressive selection available.

14 April 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazetteContacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251

Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

PENSIONERS

A new book for seniors

HOME Instead Senior Care has just published its third annual Irish Pensioner’s Handbook, a resource for seniors, their families and caregivers.

The handbook provides practical information and advice on issues such as home care and allowances and entitlements. It also boasts a directory of older person’s organisations and other useful contacts.

Speaking about the publication of the new handbook, Ed Murphy, chief executive of Home Instead Senior Care said: “The Irish Pensioner’s Handbook is an essential resource for senior citizens in Ireland. It is a valuable and easy-to-read guide specifically designed for older people and those caring for ageing loved ones.”

To order a copy of the Irish Pensioner’s Handbook, call 1890 930 013 or download a copy on www.homeinstead.ie or stop in to any Home Instead Senior Care franchise office.

18 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

M50

MOTORING

RoadSigns Road Signs

BMW PRODUCES FASTEST PICK-UP:

BMW has produced the world’s first high-performance pick-up at its Munich-based development centre. The BMW M3 Pick-up will fire the imaginations of all motorists with its top performance matched by a keen practical bent.

The M3 pick-up packs 420bhp from the V8 engine under the bonnet.

That was enough to allow it to top 300km/hr in a race testing run.

The practical features of the BMW M3 Pick-up are impressive. It has a rear-axle load capacity of up to 450 kilos. The load bed of the BMW M3 Pickup is clad in high-grade str uctured aluminium sheeting and provides the biggest cargo capacity ever offered on a BMW M vehicle.

Ford’s new Focus is more stylish and modern with big economy improvements for the diesel models. Extras like Bluetooth add to the price, which starts at €21,325 before delivery charges.

New styling for Focus MICHAEL MORONEY took the entry-level diesel model of the new Ford Focus into Wicklow and found the car smooth and efficient

The BMW M3 Pick-up

HE new Ford Focus takes the Focus design along an evolutionary route that’s modern and distinctive, but not too different from the past. The car’s design is sharper and more defined, giving it a more modern look on the outside.

In the day following its recent launch, I took the entry 95bhp version fitted with a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine for a drive down the Wicklow coast. It was a pleasant day and the mix of motorway driving, with the opportunity to savour the delights of the Garden County through the minor roads, provided a good test for Ford’s new entry.

Ford has boosted the power

T

SPECS: FORD FOCUS 1.6TDCI Top speed: 170km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 12.5 sec Economy: Economy 23.8 km/litre (4.2l/100km) CO2 emissions: 109g/km Road Tax Band: A (€104) Scrappage Eligible: Yes Warranty: 2 years Entry Price: €21,325

from this compact diesel engine. The output at 95bhp is now 5bhp more than the outgoing car that it replaces.

The engine torque also gets a boost and that brings with it a marginal improvement in acceleration to give a faster feeling car.

The acceleration pace of

the new Focus compares well with the competition. While the bigger engine Volkswagen Golf can outpace it from a standing start and Toyota’s smaller engine Auris diesel is marginally faster, it can still hold its own in that respectable competition.

Ford now fits a new sixspeed gearbox to this entrylevel car, up from the five speed in the previous model.

During my morning test drive, I found the sixth gear useful on the motorway areas and it helped to keep the car economical to drive.

T he overall economy emphasis for the new Focus is noticeable – this car is marginally better in km to the

litre compared with the older model. You should get an extra kilometre for every litre of diesel with this new Focus.

That puts the new Focus as among the most economical cars in its class, with a rating of 23.8 kilometres per litre (4.2l/100km on the brochure).

That’s a better performance than BMW’s 116d with EfficientDynamics, putting the new Focus at the top of the class in terms of meeting the needs for lower running costs.

Add to that a CO2 emission level of just 109g/km and you get a low €104 annual road tax cost for a car that’s modern, sure to be reliable and hold its value. The Ford Focus deal is good. At €21,325, for

the entry-level model – this is about €300 cheaper than the car that it replaces.

There’s a lot more in the deal, including little change in price. The entry-level Focus features comes with Stability Protection (ESP) with traction assist, Ford Intelligent Protection System, body colour bumpers, mirrors and spoiler for the five-door model, electric front windows, power door mirrors, remote central locking with flip key, stereo radio/CD with USB connectivity and capless refuelling.

This new Focus will sell well and hold its value well. Ford has retained the great driving feel of the Focus with even better economy.

Windsor Motors carry out stress test on prices WINDSOR Motors claims to have carried out their own stress test on new car prices and the results are now out. Their prices have passed the test and have now hit rock bottom. Prices on new cars, 2011 scrappage prices and 2010 low-mileage models have all been reduced.

Windsor is offering over €7,000

off the price of a new Qashqai Plus 2 seven-seater and over €5,000 off the price of a 2011 Nissan Tiida with scrappage.

Scheme

The scrappage scheme will finish shortly, so Windsor advises new car buyers not to miss the chance to avail

of the great scrappage discounts now available across the range.

And as scrappage is available on models within tax band A and B, it also means you will qualify for low road tax. Windsor Motors branches have car finance packages available and have very high approval rates and deal with a number of banks.

According to Windsor CEO, Gabriel Keane: “At Windsor Motors the customer is our focus and, with this stress test, we can now offer even greater savings to our customers. Our stress test proves that our prices have passed the test and I invite customers to visit our showrooms to take a look for themselves.”

14 April 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

M50

W

PROPERTY

ST JAMES’ WALK: APARTMENTS AND HOUSES REDUCED

Herberton residences great value for buyers Sellers should be assured their houses will sell PEOPLE who are keen to put their houses on the market but who are put off by concerns about the current environment should not be afraid to press on with their intentions, according to a new report from Lisney.

In the repor t, they state that a family house, priced correctly, will generally sell.

They report that activity in the second-hand homes market increased i n t h e l a s t we e k s o f 2010 and in the opening months of 2011 as a direct result of the sweeping changes to stamp duty rates in December’s budget, citing numerous transactions being completed and more at contract stage as a result.

“Indeed, since Christmas,” said a Lisney rep-

Sherry Fitzgerald seek new staff SHERRY FitzGerald are currently recruiting two positions in their Terenure and Dalkey branches.

They are looking for customer service/ administrative assistants to work in their busy offices.

resentative, “we have experienced an increase in the number of parties viewing proper ty and making offers.

“In some cases, we are witnessing competition amongst buyers to secure the purchase.

“This is particularly the case for realistically priced, good family homes for which there is strong demand.”

However, they also state that agreeing a sale on a property and getting contracts signed has become increasingly difficult: “Whilst we are seeing more purchasers who are in the market to purchase, lending practises by banks have not improved and, in some cases, securing credit has become even more difficult.”

The role in Terenure is for a part-time adminstrative assistant to work from 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday, while the role in the Dalkey branch is a job-sharing branch administrator, five days on, five days off, working from 9am to 6pm.

For more information, contact them directly on 01 237 6316.

A NEW phase of houses and apartments has just been released for sale at Herberton at St. James’s Walk, just off South Circular Road and close to St James’s Hospital.

T he development has been meticulously planned and designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers seeking stylish, contemporary homes.

A new phase of four houses and 11 apartments has been launched onto the market at substantially reduced prices, with reductions of up to 60% per unit from peak prices.

The one bedroom apartments (485-580sq ft) are priced from €105,000 and the two-bedroom apar tments (690-800sq ft) are from €149,950. The threebedroom apartments (1,000-1,150sq ft) are from €210,000, while the threebedroom houses (1,050sq ft) are €199,950.

Herberton comprises a rich mix of uses, including residential, shopping and leisure facilities. It offers discerning homebuyers something innovative in

There are a range of properties at reduced prices on offer at Herberton

Dublin city, having all the best that a self-contained village has to offer.

Apartments have been designed and orientated to take advantage of the views across the city in many instances and generous balconies are included to maximise these superb vistas.

Many of the apartments also incorporate large glazed areas to living spaces

in order to give a sense of light and spaciousness not commonly found in similar developments.

Attention to detail has been given throughout all of the apartments where only the most modern fittings and appliances are used in the kitchen and bathroom suites. There are high standards of finish throughout with handcrafted wardrobes

and other fittings.

The joint selling agents, Hooke & MacDonald and C o l d we l l B a n ke r, h ave released for sale 15 apartments from the new show units on site.

T hey are on view by appointment with either of the joint selling agents (Coldwell Banker tel. 01-411 0012 or Hooke & MacDonald tel. 01-631 8402).

BALLYBRACK: THREE-BED LIVING FOR €258,000

Ideal choice for Park life

GU N N E R e s i d e n t i a l i s bringind to the market No 28 Davitt Park, a three-bedroom end-of-terrace home extending to 820 sq ft, presented in pristine decorative order with a bright interior.

The property boasts a large secluded wraparound garden with obvious potential to extend subject to planning permission.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with solid oak floor, living room to the front of the house with open fireplace, and double doors to the kitchen, which features a range of floor and

wall units, tiled floor and which has double doors opening onto the large, secluded rear garden.

The bedrooms feature built-in wardrobes and television points, and the bathroom has tiled walls and floor, a Mira Elite electric shower over bath with telephone shower and a heated towel rail.

Outside the proper ty, a side access leads to the large wraparound, secluded rear garden which is mainly lawned and bordered by attractive, well-stocked flower beds.

Number 28, Davitt Park, Ballybrack

There is also a block-built, plumbed utility shed with fitted shelves that provides extra storage and a shed.

For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Gunne Residential on 01 280 1719.

14 April 2011 GAZETTE 21

M50

BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Sandra Dunne, general manager, energie fitness, Rathfarnham

A healthy outlook on helping clients SANDRA Dunne is the general manager of energie fitness club in Rathfarnham.

The outlet is part of Ireland’s leading fitness club group, with nine clubs in Leinster offering swimming and gym facilities and a unique “six week’s results guaranteed” programme.

The fitness chain launched in Ireland in October, 2010, bringing a wide range of health and fitness expertise gained from their experience in more than 100 clubs in Britain, Latvia, Qatar and Egypt.

Unfortunately, says Sandra, obesity is on the rise in Ireland, with recent statistics indicating that one-in-four adults are obese, and one-in-four Irish children are overweight, with obesity rates increasing by 40% in Ireland in the past 10 years.

There is no quick or easy solution.

However, she says the chain’s step-bystep six-week programme can help people to set achievable goals, and support them with in-house expertise in fitness and positive nutrition.

At energie, Sandra says staff want to empower people to transform their lives, be active, tone up, lose weight, and to try new activities, from swimming to a wide range of classes, and above all, to have fun.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS A MUM’S HOME GIFTED OR SWAPPED Q - My widowed mother lives in a four-bed detached house valued at c.€400,000 and I live with my husband and two young daughters in a two-bed townhouse. I am an only child, and my mother has suggested we swap houses, as her home is too big for her. What are the tax and inheritance implications ? Laura - Milltown A - This depends on whether your mother wants to permanently gift you her home, or if it is just a straight swap and no legal contract is required. As regards inheritance, as a daughter, you are eligible to receive tax-free from your mother €332,084, over which you pay 25% tax – called Capital Acquisition Tax (CAT). This means, if your mum gifts you her home, either before or after she dies, you would have to pay €16,979 CAT. You would also have to pay stamp duty if the property were to be put in your name – 1% which would be another €4,000, plus legal costs. One option that could save you money would be to move into your mother’s home, letting her remain, and keeping the home in her name. When she passes on, as long as you have been living in the home with her for at least three years, and you have no other property at the time of your mum’s passing – you would have to sell the townhouse

Sandra Dunne

– your mother’s home would not be included in her estate for tax purposes. You would also have to continue living in your

She says that energie Rathfarnham teach swimming competence and water safety for both children and adults, with large swimming pools that are the perfect place to train or relax after a busy day.

She adds: “At energie fitness, we like to have fun. We foster clubs within our club

with coffee mornings, charity initiatives, members’ social evenings and, with the good weather, we’ll be bringing our club outdoors more with running and walking clubs.”

To find out more about energie fitness, whether to arrange a tour or find out about classes, see www.energiefitness.ie.

mother’s home for another six years after she passes on; otherwise, there would be a clawback. Stamp duty would still be payable at that point. Make sure you air all these issues before deciding to do anything, and take professional advice.

REDUNDANCY LUMP SUM Q – I was made redundant and have €42,000 to put on deposit. I have nothing planned at this moment, but may use the money in about six months to start my own busi-

Q&A Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be?

A: I always thought I would be a teacher but, by the time I left secondary school, I knew I would work with sport somehow.

Q: What was your first job?

A: I did lots of caddying and babysitting as a teenager, but my first full-time job was a leisure attendant in a local swimming pool.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: I can’t remember, but I recall being chuffed to bits!

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: I started with energie on January 4, 2011.

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: The members; they’re great, and they make the club.

Q: What part of your work-

ness. Where is the safest place for it, and best rates at the moment? Peter – Churchtown

ing day do you ‘delegate’?

A: I am lucky enough to have some great managers working with me and, if it’s their area, I generally delegate responsibility for it.

Q: What music/pictures/ movies do you have on your iPod/iPad? A: Cold Play, Take That, Travis, Snow Patrol and a bit of Chicago.

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: I love watching tennis and

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Des Bishop.

golf – I was rooting for Rory (McIlroy) in the Masters.

Q: What was your last Tweet/status update?

A: That I am delighted to be

Q: What sport can you play?

A: I loved sport as a teenager and I played golf, tennis, hockey and badminton, so all of those, though I’m a bit rusty at the moment.

Q: What is your guilty music/TV or movie pleasure?

A: “Chicago” for music, “Come dine with me” for TV, and “Officer and a Gentleman” for a movie.

Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward?

A: Neither!

doing the next Niall Mellon Township Trust Build this November.

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Great food served in a lovely restaurant, in great company and accompanied by a lovely red wine.

Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna?

A: Dame Edna; she’s hilari-

spending money frivolously?

A: Kildare Shopping Village;

A - The National Treasury Management Agency manage all the

I also love the coffee shop in Wicklow town for its fab berry scones!

are guaranteed to June of this year for any amount by the

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: At least 30, but I probably

per customer [while British and other such “deposit takers”

only wear five. I have a fetish for expensive running shoes.

ALL at least 1% better than the best bank or building society

range of State savings products, and all Irish deposit takers Eligible Liabilities Guarantee Scheme; underpinning this is the Deposit Protection Scheme, which guarantees up to €100,000 financial institutions are – generally – similarly guaranteed].

As for the best rates , all the State saving products are nearly deposit offerings. If you are prepared to wait the FULL 10 years on the National Solidarity Bond, this has the best return of all

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Camping in Cornwall; I nearly set fire to the campsite trying to cook sausages!

– a gross 5.41% would have to be offered by a DIRT-deducting deposit taker (DIRT was recently increased to 27%, so for every €1 earned in interest, the Government takes 27c).

Outside of our State savings products, Bank of Ireland’s online 15-month fixed deposit account, at 3.58%, is the best; you still

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: New Zealand.

pay 27% DIRT on this, leaving a net 2.6134%. However, as you

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: To own and manage my

can only make six withdrawals a year to maintain this rate).

own gym.

can be facilitated on a same-day basis with both. Best of luck!

ous.

Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: Play lots of golf and

Q: Where do you enjoy

bridge, and have some fabulous holidays.

may wish to start your own business, the best demand deposit account over €20,000 is Nationwide UK’s at 3.15% (but you Anglo Irish Bank offer 3.1% on demand – both can be accessed online, and fund transfer requests back to your bank account

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@ moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

22 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

GazetteTravel Travel FastTravel Six Nations weekend a triumph at Ice House Second year in a row as London tops poll as the city break of choice for Irish

LONDON has topped the list as the most popular overseas destination for Irish holidaymakers for the second year in a row, according to the latest Hotels.com Hotel Price Index (HPI®). The latest report shows that London was the most visited city by Irish holidaymakers in 2010, beating off stiff competition from popular cities such as New York and Barcelona.

With fares starting from as little as €28 one-way, including taxes and a free 20kg baggage allowance, bmi, British Midland International, fly up to four times daily direct from Dublin to London Heathrow so there are no excuses not to hop across the water and see what this actionpacked city has on offer for you.

The Hotels.com Hotel Price Index (HPI®) is a survey of hotel prices in major city destinations across the world.

For more information on bmi, visit www.flybmi.com or contact your local travel agent.

CORMAC CURTIS

Crystal Summer offering big discounts for the early-bird holiday bookers PLAN ahead and make sure everything is perfect for your 2011 summer holiday. Receive €50 off per person for all holidays to Austria, Germany, Italy and Slovenia when you book with Crystal Summer.

Crystal Summer offer the perfect locations to unwind and soak up some awe-inspiring scenery at picturesque lakeside locations. Whether it’s cycling through the Austrian Alps or spending long days relaxing by Lake Garda, Crystal Summer has the perfect holiday option for you.

Offer is valid for all new bookings to all resorts in Austria, Germany and Italy and selected resorts in Slovenia.

Slovenian resorts include Kranjska Gora, Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj when travelling via Salzburg.

Limited availability. Terms and conditions apply. Offer is valid for seven-night bookings with flights and accommodation for travel May or June only and is not applicable on flight or accommodation only. Offer not applicable in conjunction with any other offer.

Call Crystal Summer on 014331080, call into Crystal’s shop on Duke Street, just off Grafton Street in the centre of Dublin or contact your local travel agent.

THE STAR rating is quickly becoming a less-than-reliable gauge for deciding on a hotel.

Let’s face it, there was a time when people said: “Let’s take a break in Donegal, where can we stay?”

These days, people are far more likely to ask: “What good hotels have you heard of lately, I’d love to get away!”

The destination has become less important than the accommodation - as busy, working couples and families try to find the perfect mix of dining, comfort, ambience, activities and, perhaps most importantly, value for money.

Unfortunately, different hotels, with wildly dissimilar levels of service, can share the same star rating.

This is why people really like to know more about where they are planning to stay.

Out west, those looking for luxurious accommodation, sensational food, and a terrific spa, need look no further than the Ice House, a hotel to which star ratings really are meaningless.

After becoming one of the fastest ever entrants in to Ireland’s Blue Book, the bible of quality hotels and restaurants in Ireland, the Ice House has become a firm favourite for those taking a break from it all.

Perched on the edge of the River Moy estuary at The Quay in Ballina, Co Mayo, the Ice House is a simple and beautiful mix of crisp, clean, modern architectural devices

melded effortlessly with the original, iconic building that has stood on the site since the mid-1800s.

The hotel takes its name from its original function as a source of ice. The ice was used to preserve not only the vast amounts of fish that were caught in and exported from the area; it also provided ice for two local breweries.

Contemporary styling and historic significance aside, it is the ease and genuinely welcoming nature of the management team of Dara Cruise and Claire O’Sullivan, ably assisted by their staff, that lifts this hotel to its deserved place in not only the Blue Book, but also in the hearts of its guests.

to enjoy a spa treatment, as my wife did, leaving plenty of time for a stroll along the river before dinner.

I must admit, the bathrooms here are luxurious enough for yours truly to skip the whole spa routine – a long soak in the really deep bath in the beautifully appointed, modern bathroom for a good half an hour or so sees me right as rain.

Having said that, after a facial and a head, neck and shoulder massage at the expert hands of a therapist at the Chill Spa, my better half came back truly transformed, with stress nothing more than a distant memory.

After a little time relax-

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

‘You will want to enjoy a meal in the stunning Pier Restaurant, but not immediately following two hours of screaming at the Irish rugby team’

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

I have been lucky enough to visit the Ice House on two occasions, most recently during the Six Nations’ rugby championship.

It’s important to plan a trip to the Ice House properly.

You will want to enjoy a meal in their stunning Pier Restaurant, but not immediately following two hours of screaming at the Irish rugby team on the big screen in one of the many charming pubs in Ballina.

So, if you can, get there the day before, and arrive early

ing with a little music in the incredibly comfortable Nugget suite and a quick stroll, and we were ready for dinner in the Pier Restaurant.

And what an experience the food here is.

I decided some Dunmore East crab, served with Granny Smith apple, coriander and organic leaf salad, vanilla mayonnaise and avocado cream was too good to pass up.

My good lady wife was of the opinion that a bowl of creamed celeriac and parmesan soup with sautéed lamb’s

The stunning view from the Chill

kidney, apple and balsamic was the way forward.

We were both right. Stunning starters with a very reasonably priced, and delicious, sauvignon blanc, and we were two for two.

Our mains were flawless, mine being a dish of seared rabbit loin served with fricassee of autumn mushrooms, ballotine of rabbit leg and black pudding with pommery mustard and tarragon.

A triumph of local produce that I could have taken home and married if the law only allowed it.

The other side of the beautifully laid table was in a fishy mood, and opted for panseared fillets of sea bass with curry spices, parsnip puree, shallots and red wine jus.

A divine creation that I hope to return for at some point, for a full helping.

After our meal, we set ourselves up by the bar to watch a little of the Wales v England match, and sampled some of the unusual vodkas on offer –

14 April 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 23

TravelBriefs

Irish Tour Operator Sunway accepts honour from Lanzarote Tourism Board

Spa at the Ice House, where guests can enjoy every kind of treatment imaginable for a thoroughly de-stressing experience

SPECIAL EASTER OFFERS This Easter, why not indulge yourself at the Ice House Hotel?

Enjoy Dinner for two in the Award Winning 2 AA Rosette Pier Restaurant from their Spring A La Carte Menu.

Slow down with three nights luxurious accommodation and de-stress with unlimited time in their thermal suite.

Relax over a glass of bubbles and chocolatedipped strawberries on arrival, a lazy breakfast in bed and soak up the view.

And not forgetting the Easter-themed amenities for all guests over the Easter period.

Packages available from April 22 until April 25 This offer is for two adults sharing a deluxe room and costs €320 per adult for three nights. ask the bartender when you’re there, you won’t be disappointed.

We retired to our suite for the night and enjoyed a sleep that I won’t soon forget.

Despite the fact that the rooms at the Ice House boast floor-to-ceiling, panoramic windows, the black-out curtains ensure a room as dark as

pitch until you decide it’s time to get up – bliss.

A short drive to Enniscrone Beach is a must. On certain weekends the local equestrian club sets up jumps and bring the horses to the beach at low tide.

It is a stunning setting where you can get close to the action as the local riders pitch them-

selves against each other.

After this, we enjoyed a quick bowl of the sensational seafood chowder at the Ice House before spending a day sampling the hospitality of the many charming pubs in Ballina.

For a really good local Chinese restaurant – might I recommend Love Lee’s, just ask

anyone in the town and they’ll tell you how to get there.

We put our feet up and enjoyed some of the impressive digital entertainment back in our room to finish off the night, before one more good night’s sleep, as thoughts started to drift back towards home, children, work… and planning a return trip to Ballina!

THE good friendship between the Sunway travel company and Lanzarote was celebrated recently when the Lanzarote Tourism Board and the Fariones Hotel Group paid special tribute to the tour operator for its loyalty to the island, and especially to the Puerto del Carmen area.

Sunway’s founder, Jim Furlong, and his daughter, Tanya Airey, the firm’s managing director, were present for the occasion.

Sunway was founded as a travel agency in 1966 and became a tour operator in 1992. Mr.Furlong emphasised the welcome the people of Lanzarote had given to the Irish, a welcome which has been repaid by the Irish Travel Agents Association’s selection of Lanzarote for nine consecutive years as the favourite sun destination for Irish holidaymakers.

He said he much preferred the Lanzarote of today to that of 15 or 16 years ago, citing the improvements to places like Puerto del Carmen, whose main avenue and streets have been renovated, though he remarked that some of the business premises needed a facelift to fit in with the new surroundings. He added that Lanzarote sells itself to the Irish, because it is so well-known.

The manager of the tourism council said the Irish market was very important for Lanzarote. He was hopeful of an improvement in the Irish economy following the intervention of the EU and the IMF, and said that Lanzarote would continue its joint marketing agreements with airlines and tour operators. Managing director, Tanya, said the company planned to continue its winter and summer packages this year

All ashore as 100,000 passengers on 84 cruise ships set to visit Dublin this year A TOTAL of 84 cruise ships will call to Dublin this year, bringing almost 100,000 passengers and 40,000 crew to the city.

The first cruise call to Dublin took place on, Saturday, April 9, when Boudicca, a Fred Olsen Cruise Liner, sailed in to Dublin Port.

Representatives from Dublin Tourism, the Regional Tourism Authority for Dublin, will board each cruise ship calling to Dublin this season, providing expert tourism information and advice to passengers. A dedicated cruise map, created in conjunction with Dublin Tourism partners will be distributed to cruise passengers.

Paul Hayden, acting chief executive of Dublin Tourism said: “The cruise market is a very important market to all of us involved in the tourism industry in Dublin. The influx of passengers and crew has a very real impact on retailers, visitor attractions and tours in the capital.”

24 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 14 April 2011

Gazette ENTERTAINMENT

1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Dance Celebration

Irish National Youth Ballet celebrates the 15th anniversary of the Company. It promises to be a true reflection on how much this young company has grown artistically.

April 15, (12:00, 20:00) and April 16 (15:00, 20:00). Prices free to €18.

SEAMUS ENNIS CULTURAL CENTRE 01 802 0898 The Wiyos American roots music sensations, The Wiyos, made a huge impact following their BBC TV debut with Seasick Steve, filmed at The Barbican’s big Folk America extravaganza.

In 2009, they went out (by personal invitation) on a 27-date run of US baseball stadiums with Bob Dylan, and last year they wowed a capacity crowd at Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow and were then invited back over the Atlantic for Shetland Folk Festival.

Saturday, April 16 at 8:30pm. Admission: €16.

THE HELIX 01 700 7000 Back to The 80s Back to the 80s is a fun-filled musical packed with classic songs of the era that make this show burst off the stage.

Wednesday to Friday, April 13 to 15 at 8pm, 3pm Matinee, Thursday 14 Tickets: €20/Conc: €15.

Look behind you ... Perhaps Amanda Seyfried (AKA Valerie, AKA Red Riding Hood) senses a middle-aged cinema reviewer on the

The Coronas Ireland has been home to some of the most influential artists ever to grace the world stage. The Coronas are no exception and they are bringing their frantic, high-energy live show to The Helix this April. Don’t miss your opportunity to catch this intimate performance as you can be sure they are destined for the top.

Wednesday, April 20 at 8.30pm. Tickets €14.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 An Inspector Calls

Sandyford Little Theatre presents this famous play written by English dramatist J B Priestley, An upper-crust English family dinner is interrupted by a police inspector who brings news that a girl known to everyone present has died in suspicious circumstances.

April 12 to 16 at 8pm. Admission: €18/€15

Boolabus Youth Theatre Boolabus Youth Theatre present an evening of one-act plays, to include new writing, devised and classical pieces.

April 19 to 21 at 8pm. Admission: €10/€5

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Spreacha 2011

Draiocht’s annual week-long international arts festival for children is guaranteed to spark all our imaginations for a full eight days in April. Spreacha shows are perfect for school groups and families with events programmed in and out of school time.

April 13 to 20. See www.draiocht.ie/spreacha/

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Noctu The subject of the soon-to-air RTE series, Dance Off, Noctu is a new departure for the Irish Dance show genre. It strives to tell the story of Irish Dance from the viewpoint of the dancer.

April 18 to 23. Check www.civictheatre.ie for times and prices.

Up and Over It As seen on the Late Late Show International Irish Dance superstars Suzanne Cleary and Peter Harding present their electro-pop inspired, alternative Irish Dance show. It’s out with the old velvet-clad, tin-whistle-blowing, diddly-idleness and in with a high-octane, multimedia leap into 2011. This is Irish Dance for the post-pop generation.

April 19 to 23. Check www.civictheatre.ie for times and prices.

The Bad Arm – Confessions of a Dodgy Irish Dancer Written and performed by Máire Clerkin, The Bad Arm – Confessions of a Dodgy Irish Dancer is an uproarious, yet poignant, one-woman play.

April 18 to 23. Check www.civictheatre.ie for times and prices.

rampage in the woods, as Kate prepares to pounce on a film that’s made her see red – and without even a full moon in sight

It’s a big howler ...

Kate thinks it’s a beastly affair, but undemanding teens will probably wolf down this Twilight-ish tale KATE CROWLEY

NORMALLY, I have a huge weakness for bad films and cliched television, finding myself glued to the television if I spy the opening credits of Murder She Wrote (where younger readers may notice my old friend, Jessica Fletcher, using a great, great, great cave-dwelling ancestor of an iPad to bash out her latest meisterwerk).

Unfortunately, this same tolerance for guilty-pleasure trash-tv does not extend to moronic movies, where, as Einstein might have put it, a mere minute can seem like a very long time indeed, relatively speaking. Quite.

And, one thing’s for sure – there weren’t no Einsteins toiling over the script to Red Riding Hood. Do I still have to review this fairytale folly? (“Yes.” – Ed.) Sigh. Okay.

Somewhere, some high-fiving Hollywood execs decided that “Twilight” + an old fairy tale = sackfuls of dosh, which is, presumably, how this tosh made it to our screens.

Gigantic-eyed Valerie

Film of the Week: Red Riding Hood (12A) 99 mins Director: Catherine Hardwicke Starring: Amanda Seyfried, Gary Oldman, Julie Christie, Lukas Haas

OUR VERDICT: SILVER bullets! Holy water! Garlic!

What, exactly, does Kate need to finish off a string of these trite monster movies? Red Riding Hood certainly leaves her seeing red ...

(Amanda Seyfried, or “Red”, as I’m calling her from now on) lives in a typical Ye Olde Village, full of wrinkled old women (aged over 30), comely lassies, hunky suitors, oddly inappropriate traditional village dances, and strange local customs that see regular, monthly animal sacrifices to appease a nearby beast.

So far, so normal, and this wouldn’t sound so out of place in dear old Donegal, where wee Kate spent many a happy summer as a lass with Granny, sans any werewolf problems.

However, interfering with Red’s plans to go and chop some wood with Peter (Shiloh Fernandez), her parents have

bethrothed her to another.

While Red and Peter work out what they’re going to do about this, a werewolf attack sees her sister slain, and the village put on high alert, as this move by the nearby werewolf is but the prelude to other, deadlier attacks.

Jumping along a little and, after a little Rentamob action, the villagers have caught and killed a wolf. Hurrah! Their ordeal is over! Of course not.

Cue the arrival of Gary Oldm- whoops, Father Solomon (Gary Oldman, in his usual scenery-chewing mode, and never so far from his understated performance as decent Jim Gordon in the recent Batman films), who declares that The Wolf! Is! One of YOU! At this point, I admit that my attention began to drift off a little, as I started trying to weigh up Oldman’s good films versus his many, many bad ones, and (“Get on with it, Crowley.” – Ed.) Sigh.

Yes, indeedy, the big, bad werewolf is one of the villagers, but whoooo? Could it be

Grandma, out in the woods (oh, Julie Christie ...)? Peter, the woodcutter? Bobby Ewing?

There’s only one way to find out – Red better traipse off out to Grandma’s, and find out who the wolf (which she has a special connection with) is...

It’s often been argued that there are only seven basic stories to tell, whether in publishing or through cinema, yet this one seems to be derivative of only one – the aforementioned Twilight series.

Sure, there are some nice shots here and there, and even some pretty cinematography to admire – albeit in a pointlessly over-stylised way, like a 1980s French pop video.

However, a hopeless script, Oldman’s mugging and Christie’s slumming, lashings and lashings of angst, an overwrought plot and – oh, great, I’m almost finished! Yay! Folks, if you’re really interested in a time-honoured fairytale, stick with your old books.

They may be a little Grimm, but the shaggiest old tale is still worthier of your consideration than this beastly film ...

14 April 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 25

TECHNOLOGY Links to entertainingly far-fetched Tweeters

Some tweet machine favourites ADAM MAGUIRE

WHEN a potentially lethal snake went missing in New York Zoo, the cobra became known across the world almost instantly. It also got its own Twitter account.

Called @BronxZoosCobra, this account is the latest in a long line of spoofs that have appeared on Twitter.com.

This is where parody versions of people, things and even places are created t o p o ke fun and raise a few smiles.

Other examples in recent times include one that claimed to be the account of one of the trapped Chilean miners but, like the missing snake’s account, it was restricted to a short lifespan.

So, here are a few of the funniest spoof accounts that have been up and running

for some time, and that show no signs of stopping any time soon ...

@DarthVader The legendary villain from the Star Wars series is also a keen Tw i t terer, it appears.

Be it commentary on news events, information about the Empire, or even a look into Vader’s softer side, this account has plenty worth reading. @FakeAPstylebook T he Associated Press Stylebook is a well-known resource for writers looking to hone their craft.

The Fake version of it, available on Twitter amongst other places, is quite the opposite.

Some of the best writing advice includes: “Remember what happens when you assume. Frankly, you save yourself a lot of work” and “Do not be afraid to use exclamation points in your writing. They can sense fear.”

@ChuckNorris_ What would the internet be without Chuck Norris jokes?

A much more boring place, that is for sure.

So it was inevitable someone would set up a Twitter account claiming to be Chuck Norris, or at least warning you about his lethal nature.

Just in case you were in any doubt about Norris’ skills, the account assures us that he can do a wheelie on a unicycle and slam a revolving door.

Impressive.

Apple iPad 2 The long-awaited update to Apple’s game-changing tablet

is a device well worth having, though only if you do not own an iPad already.

When the iPad launched last year, it changed things.

Tablets already existed, of course, but none had the instant appeal and allure that Apple was able to offer.

Since then, a number of rival devices have come to the market, and many have been good.

However, none has been great.

The iPad 2 can be considered a baby step forward for Apple – taking that great device from last year, and making a few minor adjustments to keep it competitive.

The device now sports a slimmer, lighter body, a faster processor, and a couple of cameras.

But, beyond that, it is much the same as what came before.

However, that is far from an insult, as the original iPad really was a truly superb machine.

For anyone who has used an iPhone or an iPod Touch, this device will feel very familiar. The software is much the same, albeit on a bigger screen, and the way you interact with apps is identical.

What makes the iPad 2 so great really is its software too, which is so easy to use and logical that even a small child would feel at home with it.

The device is always-on,

so there is no need to boot it up and wait, and its intuitive design makes it easy to use for so many things, from e-mailing to watching videos or playing games.

There are plenty of apps – free and premium – that you can download, meaning you can customise the device as you like, and even replace a lot of what you currently do on a PC with it.

If you already own an iPad, you are not going to miss out on a whole lot by not getting the iPad 2, unless you really want a camera.

However, if you are thinking of getting a device like this, there is still nothing better than what Apple have to offer.

The iPad 2 is available from store. apple.com/ie, from €479 upwards.

Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

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DUN LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

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Planning permission is sought for the proposed 1st floor pitched roof extension over the existing side extension, addition of a pitched roof ground floor extension to the rear of the existing residence, alterations and extension at ground floor to the front entrance door, together with internal alterations and all associated site development works, to the existing residence at 10 Valley Avenue, Druid Valley, Cabinteely, Dublin 18, by Farhan & Majida Vazir. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Dún Laoghaire during its public opening hours.

A submission/observation may be made on payment of €20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the planning authority.

Retention permission is sought on behalf of Ciara Nolan for additional first floor space over porch for en-suite, alterations to front elevation and to change from flat over to lean-to tiled roof over front entrance porch from that approved under D09A/0498 at 1 Broadford Park, B a l l i n t e e r , D 16 .

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Dun Laoghaire. A submission of observation may be made on payment of €20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the Local Authority.

Signed: DKP Architects

PLANNING NOTICE

PLANNING NOTICE

DUN LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

DUN LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning permission is sought

by Paul and Antoinette Kelly at 25 Mount Eagle Rise, Leopardstown Heights, Dublin to demolish an existing sunroom to the rear and to construct a new single storey extension 78sqm to the rear of the existing dwelling. The works to include associated drainage landscaping and associated site works. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Dunlaoghaire Rathdown County Council, County Hall Dunlaoghaire Co Dublin during opening hours between 10am and 4pm, Monday to Friday excluding Bank Holidays. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the planning authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the planning application by the Planning Authority.

I Nuala Donovan, intend to apply for planning permission for the construction of a dormer bungalow, with a floor area of 221 sq.m. with associated site works, located on the site of Crannach, Woodside Townland, Hillcrest Road, Sandyford, Dublin 18. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Dun Laoghaire during its public opening hours. A submission/observation may be made on payment of €20.00 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the applicaton is received by the planning authority .

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PLANNING NOTICE DUN LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL Planning permission is being sought for the construction of a new first floor extension to gable end above existing single storey garage, the conversion of existing garage and the provision of 2no. new bay windows to front elevation at ground floor level, the provision of velux roof-lights at roof level to front elevation and the construction of a new single storey sun room extension to rear, all connecting into existing services, together with the widening of the existing entrance gates onto Taney Crescent, at No. 2 Taney Crescent, Goatstown, Dublin 14. Signed: Paul & Judy Dillon. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin during its public opening hours. A submission/observation may be made in writing on payment of €20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the Application is received by the Planning Authority.

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26 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 14 April 2011

GazetteSPORT Gazette SPORT

14 April 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 27

RUN FOR THE SUN: Great Ireland Run another huge success in Phoenix Park: Page 29

HOCKEY: DEFEAT IN FINAL GAME IRRELEVANT AS BOOTERSTOWN SIDE TAKE CROWN

Hermes celebrate Leinster league title WOMEN’S DIVISION 1 Hermes UCD STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

2 4

HERMES lost the battle but won the war when their exploits earlier this season were enough to see them over the line and win the Leinster women’s division one hockey league last Saturday at Belfield.

The Booterstown club fell 4-2 on Saturday to UCD, leaving them wondering if Loreto could pull off an improbable nine-goal win against Railway Union in the final game of the season.

But it did not accrue as Loreto could only move out as far as 3-0 before being reeled back in, leaving them level on points with Hermes but with an inferior goal tally.

A sleepy first half was briefly enlivened by Caitriona McGilp’s goal and Gillian Pinder’s autopass score from a five-metre free.

But the second half was rip-roaring and end-to-end.

Anna O’Flanagan banged home from close range from the second phase of a penalty corner to establish a Hermes lead.

Jenny Burke and Deirdre Duke had a gilt-edge chance

to strengthen that lead but Stella Davis did well to snuff out the two strikers closing in on her goal.

Chloe Watkins, meanwhile, clipped the outside of the post with a diving, reverse sweep after stealing the ball from Emma Gray.

The students were level f o l l ow i n g a r i g h t- w i n g attack, which McGilp swept in at the near post to register a brace against her former club.

And her side hit the front from a top move. Brenda Flannery found Emily Menzies deep on the left-wing and she did well to get a cross for the waiting Jess

Hermes’ Audrey O’Flynn, Gillian Pender and Anna O’Flanagan celebrate

McMickan on the back post to tap in.

Flannery’s straight strike made it 4 -2 while Lisa Jacob’s top reverse drew an equally high-quality save from Davis. In the end, it

proved immaterial but the second half was a joy to behold in all its carefree glory.

Loreto ended the season equal on 44 points but they will rue draws against UCD

and Old Alex late in the season, especially against the students, having led 3-0 before being pegged back when the title race was firmly in the hands of the Beaufort side.

28 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 14 April 2011

GazetteSport Sport Rugby

FastRugby

Seapoint mini-festival set for this weekend SEAPOINT’S annual mini-rugby festival will take place this Sunday, April 17 in Kilbogget Park,in conjunction with Balcombes Claims Management.

The festival caters for teams at U-10s, U-11s and U-12s age groups. All registration documents and event details are available on the club’s website but due to the popularity of the event, Seapoint cannot guarantee all clubs will be accommodated.

The event is one of the biggest of its kind in Ireland.

RUGBY: COOKE SNEAK VICTORY AT TEMPLEVILLE ROAD

Blackrock College’s ladies were denied an elevation in the league table after a last-gasp win by Cooke in Division 1

’Rock pipped at post ALL-IRELAND LEAGUE DIV 1 Blackrock Cooke

25 27

dunlaoghairesport@gazettegroup.com

Ulster Bank semi-finals on TV THIS Saturday and Sunday will see the the conclusion of the Ulster Bank League, and as the playoff finals between Old Belvedere and Clontarf and Cork Constitution and Young Munster loom large, the good news for sports fans is that the matches will both be shown live on RTE 2, with a 2.35pm kick-off time in both of the semifinals.

The first semi-final will see Old Belvedere

play at home in Anglesea Road on Saturday, April 16 where they will host Clontarf. The winning team will become the unofficial Dublin and Leinster Champions and set up what will be another Munster v Leinster encounter in the Ulster Bank League Final.

The all-Munster semifinal is between 2011 Ulster Bank League tabletoppers and defending champions, Cork Constitution, who will renew cross-city rivalries when they take on Limerick’s Young Munster on Sunday, April 17.

BLACKROCK College’s ladies remain in sixth place in AIL Division One, going into their final round of games following a 25-27 loss to Cooke, before bouncing back to beat St Mary’s at Templeville Road last weekend.

The loss against Cooke was a narrow one, though perhaps the absence of Irish stars Sinead Ryan and Louise Austin through injury cost them the win and the vital points.

But it did not show in the early stages as they were first on the scoreboard as standoff Michelle Claffey produced an outstanding break to score under the posts with the try converted by fullback

Aoife Tyrell.

Rock’s lineout was once a g a i n f u n c t i o n i n g ve r y well and, from the ensuing mauls, they gained muchneeded yards against a defiant Cooke defence. It was off that base that Corrina Halpin managed to dot the ball down to give Rock a 12-0 advantage.

Cooke, though, upped game when they finally got their hands on the ball and managed to score two tries before half time through Caroline Kelly and Stacey Lee Kennedy.

The second try was scored when Rock were down to 14 after Carrie Hanley was a little over-zealous in the tackle and went high on the Cooke centre. Neither was converted and Rock went into half time with a two-point lead, 12-10.

T he Stradbrook hosts

knew it was game and went into the second half with real aggression, Nini McCarthy superb in her tackling to curtail a number of attacking plays.

They extended their lead when Dee O’Brien, known for her power on attack, picked a ball off the back of a scrum inside the Cooke 22 and her hard running and momentum took her over the line.

Rock spent the next quarter in the Cooke half and were rewarded when Lili Quirke dived over from a pick-and-go close to the line.

It put them 22-10 up and seemingly out of sight but Cooke never gave up and, from the restart, put pressure on, and were awarded a penalty, which former Rock player Grace Davitt kicked, to bring her side within nine

points.

And her side were not finished there, piling on more pressure from their strong running backs and powerful forwards put them on the front foot.

This pressure eventually told and the Cooke scrum half, Porter, spotted a gap in defence to go over for their third try, Davitt landed the conversion and Rock were now only 22-20 with minutes remaining.

The match was very much up for grabs and Rock seemed to have won it when Claffey knocked over a penalty from 20 metres out but, from the restart, Cooke were awarded a scrum and worked hard to score in the last play of the game.

T he conversion was awarded and Cooke managed to sneak the win at the death.

14 April 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 29

in association with

Great runners

FastSport

Over 11,000 runners shone in the sunshine at the 2011 SPAR Great Ireland Run last weekend with local interest at a premium in all events

OVER 11,000 people took to the tarmac for the SPAR Great Ireland Run and SPAR Junior Great Ireland Run in beautiful sunshine in the Phoenix Park last weekend.

In a carnival atmosphere, 1,000 children raced in the Junior Run over 2.5 km, which was started by Eddie

Hobbs, patron of the Jack & Jill Foundation, and Sonia O’Sullivan.

Dundrum South Dublin star Cassie Murphy won the girls’ race in a time of 10.45.

The children were followed by their adult counterparts, some 10,000 runners, joggers and walkers, who included Sean Gal-

lagher from Dragons’ Den, Evanne Ni Chuilinn from RTE Sport, former Ireland and Leinster hooker Shane Byrne (whose twin daughters ran the Junior Run) Maclean Burke from Fair City, Gillian Quinn, Lisa Fitzpatrick and many, many others.

British teenager, Charlotte Purdue, again showed her vast potential for the future when she was the runaway winner of the women’s race against much more experienced opponents.

The men’s title went to former European 5,000 metres gold-medallist, Jesus Espana of Spain, who broke clear with 1,200 metres to go. Defending champion, Martin Fagan of Ireland, was third.

The race doubles as the Athletics Ireland Irish 10k

Championships, and in that respect, there was plenty of local interest, with Joe Sweeney of DSD coming second in the Irish challenge, in a time of 30:42, and Sean Hehir of Rathfarnham AC was fifth in 31:19. Meanwhile, in the women’s race, Ava Hutchinson was third in the women’s race in a time of 34:43.

The Run is the only event in Ireland recognised by the International Association of Athletic Federations (IAAF) at Bronze Label level. As a result of the quality of this year’s event, the organisers will be submitting an application to the IAAF for Silver Label status for the 2012 SPAR Great Ireland Run, as they believe that all the required criteria may have been achieved to upgrade from bronze.

Cassie Murphy on her way to winning the Junior Girls’ race

Jannett Keane does the hard work as Chloe enjoys the park

Catriona Lindsay Russell, from Blanchardstown

Niamh Sheridan and Lorraine Morgan celebrate their 10k

Trap and Marco help to launch penalty contest AS PART of their fundraising efforts in aid of the Irish Homeless World Cup team, the national penalty shoot-out competition, sponsored by Continental Tyres, is set to take place in AUL, Clonshaugh, and Astro Park, Greenhills Road, Tallaght on Good Friday, April 22 at 10am, and there is still time for teams to enter the Dublin leg of the competition.

At the event’s recent launch, Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni and coach Marco Tardelli urged soccer fans to get behind the venture, in which the regional winners will receive €1,000 of Umbro kit, while the overall winners will receive six tickets for the Europa Cup Final and two nights accommodation in a Dublin 4 hotel.

Details and entry forms can be obtained from wwwirishstreetleague.com, or by calling Mick Pender on 087 127 3258 or Sean Kavanagh on 087 223 8108.

Francis holding local events

NAC to be venue for Fingal Sprint

ST FRANCIS football club will holding a fundraiser in the Dean Swift, Dublin 8, on Friday, May 27 in aid of one of their former players, Terry Hillard, who died recently, at an early age.

Club members are asked to please try and support this worthy cause for one of the legends of the club.

Meanwhile, the club will host their Easter Soccer Camp from April 25 to 29 in John Hyland Park.

The camp will run from 10.30am to 2pm every day for all kids aged five to 12, and it promises to be a great week of fun with qualified coaches in a safe environment.

The cost is €50 per child.

THE National Aquatic Centre will be the venue for the sixth annual Fingal Sprint triathlon on May 15, and organiser 3D Triathlon are calling on newcomers to triathlon and local youths to participate in the event.

3D Triathlon have also been invited by Triathlon Ireland to host the 2011 Inaugural National Youth Triathlon Championships, which will take the form of three races – the Fingal Sprint (age 18 and over), 2011 National Youth Championship (age 16-19) and Fingal Junior Aquathlon (ages 8-15).

If you are interested in taking part, registration details are available at www.fingalsprint.3dtri. com

30 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 14 April 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Kelly captains Dublin in boxing centenary bouts MONKSTOWN Boxing Club’s 16-year-old rising star, Karl Kelly, recently represented and captained a Dublin team that gloved off against a London select at the Citywest Hotel.

The show was set up to celebrate the Irish/Dublin Amateur Boxing association’s centenary year.

Kelly lost on a split decision, but fought well against a very good opponent. He is pictured above with the team and team manager, Philip Rooney.

Cabinteely set to host Easter camp CABINTEELY FC will host a four-day summer camp from April 26 to 29 in Kilbogget Park. Camp Cabo will cost just €79 for registered club members and €89 for non-members with registration taking place on April 26 at 9.45am in Kilbogget Park.

The camp will run each day from 10.30am to 2.30pm and is open to all boys and girls aged seven to 13.

Discounts available to families and each participant will receive a football survival pack. For more information, go to www. cabinteelyfc.com.

St Joseph’s make presentation on ladies’ soccer ST JOSEPH’S Boys had the privilege to be asked by the FAI to make a presentation to a visiting UEFA Study Group in

Abbottstown last week regarding the development of girls’ football in Dublin from a club’s perspective.

The study group comprised coaches from the Belarus FA, the Estonian FA and the Icelandic FA, as well representatives from UEFA. The coaches were in Dublin for three days to study the vast improvements made in the overall standard of girls’ football in Ireland over the past five years.

Speaking after the presentation, Joey’s Director of Football Performance, Will Clarke, said: “We were extremely honoured to be asked by the FAI to present to the UEFA Study Group about the vast improvements made in girls’ soccer in Ireland and, in particular, how we develop our female players in Joeys.

“So far this season, we have had 14 girls involved at international level and it is something that we are extremely proud of,” said Clarke.

SOCCER: UNDER-16 STARS TARGET CUP SUCCESS FOR 2011

Dundrum FC have targeted the cup double to add to their league title this season

Treble run still on SDFL U-16 LEAGUE CUP Dundrum FC Terenure STEPHEN FINDLATER

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dunlaoghairesport@gazettegroup.com

DUNDRUM got their U-16 SDFL treble bid up and running in convincing fashion when they stormed back from a goal deficit to beat Terenure for the third time this season.

Having annexed the Premier league title with 13 points to spare, and a cup final to come in late May in the Tallaght Stadium, Dave Lewins’ side remain on track following a comprehensive success over near-neighbours Terenure.

But they were under pressure in the early stages last Sunday afternoon, in glorious sunshine, as the visitors

to Meadowbrook started with real intention.

Dundrum’s Cal Tobin had dinged the outside of the post in just the third minute but Terenure fought back.

Two decent headers forced a smart save from Gavin Lynch while the latter skimmed past the far post.

But the third dangerous cross from the left-wing found its way to Eanna Clynes who smashed in from close range in the 18th minute.

It sprung the favourites into action and they were level in jig-time.

Goalkeeper Michael Cotter did well to punch away the initial corner but the ball was returned into the area with interest and centre-half Dean Clarke was still up for the

set-piece and calmly stroked home as the visitor’s defence prematurely pushed out.

Again good follow-up play yielded the second nine minutes later when livewire centre-forward Graham Lewins’ tenacity won the ball in the right corner.

He pummelled a shot in at the near post which Cotter got finger-tips to deflect onto the post but the ball skidded out to the left-wing where it was returned to the danger zone

by Cathal Flaherty.

The waiting Tobin turned the ball in with little difficulty amid a string of spread-eagled defenders.

With Dundrum now pouring forward, Cotter denied a three-on-one chance as Neil Jordan was denied before

they made it 3-1 with half-time approached.

It was Clarke on the mark again, profiting as no defender could reach an out-swinging corner. He jumped to head but it came off his knee but the outcome was the same in any case, 3-1 at half-time.

The second period produced more of the same and only for profligate finishing it could have been a hatful.

Tobin hit the post again while Lewins knocked one wide when well-placed and had another chip tipped over the bar.

Their fourth did come when Tobin was set through one-onone by a long ball. He took his time to pick his spot and found the net off the inside of the right-hand post.

Murphy aids Carlisle cause dunlaoghairesport@gazettegroup.com

FORMER St Joseph’s Boys player Peter Murphy had a weekend to remember last week when he was the hero for Carlisle United in the Football League Trophy final at Wembley.

Murphy scored the only goal in a 1-0 win for Carlisle against Brentford and was also awarded Man of the Match for his efforts.

There was double joy for Murphy as he became a

father for the first time in the lead-up to the game.

Speaking about the momentous week, he admitted: “It doesn’t get much better than this. The baby coming along and scoring the goal to win, especially after last year when we didn’t give as good an account of ourselves as we would have liked.”

Carlisle had fallen at the final hurdle last year 4-1 to Southampton but there was no repeat heartache this time round.

“Everyone was asking me what I was going to do if she went into labour around the match-time. I was just saying, I’ll play it by ear. You can’t really plan for these things and, luckily, it worked out brilliantly, timing was excellent. I got to get down to the hotel after the labour to get a good night’s sleep and training the next day, so it worked out brilliant. You can’t write stuff like that.

“Compared to last year, all I wanted to do was concen-

trate on the game. There were a lot of injuries and distractions leading up to the game.

We had something to prove this year and we’ve done it, and getting the goal is nice.”

Murphy began his career with Joey’s before moving to Blackburn Rovers where he stayed for three seasons when Carlisle took him on.

He earned an international call-up in 2007, playing for the Republic against Bolivia in a two-game American tour.

14 April 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 31

in association with

ALL IRELAND: STILLORGAN SCHOOL CLAIM NATIONAL TITLE

Iosagain bring home Dublin’s first cup

SENIOR B COLLEGES A/I Colaiste Iosagain Holy Rosary College

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dunlaoghairesport@gazettegroup.com

STILLORGAN’S Colaiste Iosagain claimed the Tesco Senior B Second Level College’s All Ireland title last week, defeating Holy Rosary COllege of Mountbellew, Galway, in a close encounter in Roscommon.

It was a battle for the ball from the get go, and both Iosagain and Holy Rosary registered wides in the first minute.

The ball was worked up and down the pitch continuously throughout the half, and Martha Ni Bhroinn put the first score on the board for Iosagain. This was swiftly answered by HRM’s Tessa Mullins, who pointed a free from about 25m out.

HRM scored their goal halfway through the half, a high ball that was looking like bisecting the posts dropping short and into the net, putting the Mountbellew girls ahead by a point.

But far from being disheartened, Iosagain’s Eabha

Ruitleis registered the first Iosagain goal with 24 minutes on the clock, and in spite of their efforts to pull clear, the score at the break was 1-05 to each side.

The second half started like the first, a wide at each end in the opening passage of play, before Niamh Ni Chilean settled the Stillorgan nerves with a well-executed goal after only three minutes.

The Galway side were not yet defeated, and hit four points in the next ten minutes to level the match again, while the Bellew defenders

had got to grips with the Iosagain attack, but Alannah Ni Chuinn eventually unlocked the gate and pointed to put Iosagain ahead again, with Clar deSiun popped another over.

With one point between the teams and the minutes ticking away, a long ball was lobbed across the park was caught by Maire Ni Sheanain, who offloaded to deSiun, who put the Stillorgan girls two ahead on the stroke of full time, and Iosagain collected the first-ever Senior B Cup in the capital.

Action from the final, and Carragh Ruitleis, captain of Colaiste Íosagáin, accepts the cup from Ita Hannon of Cumann Peil Gael na mBan

Benildus claim Dublin title DUBLIN SCHOOLS SFC A FINAL St Benildus’ College Maynooth PP dunlaoghairesport@gazettegroup.com

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BARRY Horan was the St Benildus College hero when his goal two minutes from the end of extra-time proved the decisive factor, when the Kilmacud Road school claimed the Dublin Schools SFC A final at O’Toole Park last Thursday.

Benildus opened up in fine fashion when Glenn Whelan kicked a pair of points, and Shane Cunningham was also on the mark inside the first ten

minutes, but Maynooth fought back to trail by just a single score at the interval, 0-4 to 0-3.

Mark Donnellan’s free and one point each from Simon Mackey and James Durcan reeled in that gap, Donnellan kicking the first of what would a personal tally of 0-6.

Comeback And another three of his points and a second from Durcan put the Maynooth school up by two points with seven minutes of normal time to play.

But Horan and Cunningham both cleared the bar to make it level and

bring the game into extra-time.

Niall Carr’s score edged Benildus back in front before Donnellan added yet another two points to swap the lead once more in the final ten minutes of the game.

But Horan proved the gamebreaker when he notched up a final salvo of 1-1, to swing the tie back his side’s way in the final reckoning.

It was not the first time Benildus needed extra-time to win the title, as they got the better of St Declan’s back in 2009, 1-13 to 0-15, needing the additional period to finally grab the laurels.

Club Noticeboard BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S

BALLINTEER ST JOHN’S

Many thanks to Timbertrove for sponsorship of senior A hurlers. Well done to minor A and B hurling teams on league wins.

Sincere sympathy to the family of the late Mick Dillon an active suppor ter/ ticket seller of the club’s lotto.

The Coláiste Éanna Parents’ Association will be holding a table quiz in the clubhouse on T hu r sday, April 14 at 8pm. Entry is €10 per person or €40 per table of four.

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 8, 9, 13 and 1. Jackpot of €3,000 not won.

Next Saturday’s walk is from Kilcoole to Blackditch - meet at club at 9pm.

LOT TO: Numbers drawn were 3, 4, 9 and 17. There was no winner. Draw winners were Eamon Naughton €100, Sean McConnell €50 and Sean T Hanley €50. Next week’s draw will be for €13,800. Tickets are available online at w w w. ballinteerstjohns.com.

This Thursday at 6.45pm in Marley Park, our senior hurlers take on Kilmacud Crokes in the League.

Please come out and support the lads.

Gr e at r e s u lt s for ou r t wo adu lt lad ie s t e a m s last Wednesday with two fine wins over K ilmacud Crokes.

Congratulations to Nicky Deveraux on his selection for t he D ubl i n footba l l team.

Congratulations also to St Benildus’ College on winning the Dublin Senior A football title beating Maynooth in the final. There were eig ht players f rom St John’s on the team that included captain Stephen Fitzsimons.

Bingo every Monday night from 8.30pm. All welcome, please let your neighbours, friends, relatives know and encourage them to join in an enjoyable social evening.

Si ng a long i n t he ba r every Tuesday night with Na Firbolg’s from 10pm.

STARS OF ERIN MASSIVE congratulations to the Under-8s footballers who had a very successful day on Saturday. The team played in a blitz hosted by St James’ Gaels in the Iveagh Grounds. The team won two out of three games and all the team really enjoyed the day. There were excellent performances all over the field and the Under-8s point scoring has come on. Special thanks to Ross from St James’ Gaels on organising a brilliant day. The Under-11 hurlers had a great victory over St Patrick’s, Palmerstown.

The adult men’s footballers had a smashing win over St Brigid’s in Glencullen on Sunday morning. The whole team played very well. Some fantastic point-scoring on display with all forwards registering a score. Also excellent double save from Gavin Mulvey first to block a penalty and then smother and clear the rebound.

Training for the adult men continues from 7pm on Tuesdays in Glencullen.

The Stars of Erin Easter Camp will run from April 18 to April 21. Please visit the club website for contact details and further information: www.starsoferin.com The nursery is still being run every Saturday morni ng i n Glencu l len f rom 11.15am and is attracting a good crowd of children.

Basic introduction to Gaelic Games in a safe, fun and friendly environment alternating between Football and Hurling on a week to week basis. All children and parents are very welcome. €10 Juvenile draw tickets are now on sale, tickets limited to 850 please see any committee members for tickets.

The weekly draw is held every Sunday in the Step Inn, Thanks to everyone who is selling tickets. This week’s winners were 1st: Pauric Lodge 2nd: Davy Rogers 3rd: J. P. Lewis

WANDERERS THERE was no winner this week of the Lotto jackpot.

Numbers drawn were 11, 17 and 30; €25 goes to Darragh Healy, Maureen McMillan, Joe Condon, P Weldon.

Jackpot next week is €700.

Best wishes for a speedy recovery to injured Junior A players Mark Thompson and Gerry Whelan.

Junior A and B teams are in cup action this week. As away to Garda at 11am and Bs away to St Francis Gaels at 3pm. All support welcome.

Adult mens’ training continues in Frank Kelly Park on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.15pm sharp. Contact Eddie on 0876383433, or Conor on 0868192566 for more information.

Adult ladies’ training on Mondays at 7.30pm. All skill and fitness levels very welcome. Contact Darren on 087 664 7205.

Juvenile boys and girls training takes place every Saturday at 11am at Frank Kelly Park.

All welcome. For more information, parents should contact Eddie on 086 253 6759 or Niall on 086 885 7303.

Membership now due and all players are reminded that the deadline of March 1 has passed. You are not insured and ineligible to play if not fully paid up.

Our annual players quiz night will take place on Holy Thursday, April 21 at the Merry Ploughboy, 8pm start.

ALL OF YOUR DUN LAOGHAIRE SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

IOSAGAIN IDOLS: Colaiste Iosagain break

new ground on way to All-Ireland glory: Page 31

APRIL 14, 2011

INSIDE: Local stars shine in the Great Ireland Run: P29

GazetteSPORT

Kilmacud Crokes’ Ryan O’Dwyer is one of a string of locally-based GAA stars with designs on National League glory in the coming fortnight

Dub stars’ double bid LOCAL Dublin stars have two dates in Cork in the next two weeks to end a long drought for national league glory after two largely encouraging campaigns to date.

The footballers rounded off their campaign with just one setback of the campaign, drawing 0-15 to 2-9 with Galway and enduring Alan Brogan’s red card.

But Kilmacud Crokes’ Pat Burke took his 28thminute goal in some style after Galway’s otherwise excellent Joe Bergin had been dispossessed in midfield.

With the Crokes’ contingent missing the early stages of the competition, due to their presence in the All-Ireland club championships, it was Burke’s first start of the year and came with his first goal.

Similarly, Kevin Nolan has only been involved for the last three games of the league but has started the last two and could well featured in the wing-backs

against Cork in the decider, to be played on Easter weekend in Croke Park.

Cuala’s Mick Fitzsimons is another battling for a final place after coming off the bench in place of Ballinteer St John’s man, Nicky Devereux.

A regular started in 2010, he has been in and out of the panel during this campaign as part of a rotating full-back line.

And former Dublin talisman, Ciaran Whelan, believes the football final can have huge relevance going into the summer months as the metropolitans seek their first national title since the 90s.

“Dublin have closed the gap incredibly over a short period of time, and, if they could turn Cork over in a national final, it would give them great confidence going into the championship.

“They have great confidence and momentum at the moment and you don’t want it to be a setback. You

look at Mayo last year - they lost the league final to Cork and never recovered.”

Hoping to join them in that final are the hurlers — perhaps an even bigger achievement just to be in the running at this stage in the game.

A huge factor that has got them in with a shout of making their NHL division one final has been the scoring of new boy Ryan O’Dwyer, who has weighed in with 2-11 from his four starts to date since switching from Tipperary to Kilmacud.

Clubmate Niall Corcoran has been involved in five of the Sky-Blues six games from the outset while Cuala’s Oisin Gough won back his place in the number four jersey after three games on the sidelines after he returned from injury.

They play Cork this weekend needing to better the performance of Galway, who travel to Waterford to have any chance of a cherished final visit.