Laoghaire GAZET TE FREE
RECYCLE THIS COPY. KEEP DUBLIN TIDY.
YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER
INSIDE: Internet entrepreneur wins board award P3
October 6, 2011
YOUR PENSION: Our essential guide for planning your future See Pages 19-22
Fun day angels: Seraphim in Cabinteely Park HEAVENLY Helen Wallace and
Football: Crokes players get All-Star nominations Page 32
Niamh Kavanagh, from the Bui Bolg group, greeted visitors to the recent Cabinteely Carnival at Cabinteely Park, which saw a free family fun day of activities and colourful characters set up at the park, courtesy of DLR Events, that included bouncy castles and inflatable games, face painters, clowns, unicycles and street performance shows. Picture: Edna Doran
Full Gallery on Page 10
Aussie Rules: South Dublin Swans claim national title Page 30
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ................8-10 BUSINESS .................... 18 MOTORS ....................... 23 TRAVEL......................... 24 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 25 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26
Supervalu move is praised by business Retail chain to replace Tesco in shopping centre
Q MICHAEL HANNAN
DUN Laoghaire businesses have welcomed the announcement by Irish retail chain, Supervalu, that they are set to move into the Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre in the space recently vacated by Tesco. Supervalu will completely
refit the supermarket and have indicated that they expect to have the branch open by the last week of November, in preparation to take advantage of the Christmas trade. Speaking to the Gazette, Independent Councillor Victor Boyhan, said the development was “super news for Dun
Laoghaire Town Centre”. Supervalu had entered into an agreement with the Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre management team and have circulated a letter to the other retailers indicating their intent to move in at the end of November. Full Story on Page 2
2 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 October 2011
EVENT
UCD students take part in special workshop
Blindfolded to make connections with elderly UCD STUDENTS were blindfolded in the UCD student centre on September 29 during a workshop organised by Making Connections as part of their volunteer drive to help elderly people living in isolation. Making Connections is a not-forprofit befriending service based in the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown community. Their objective is to enhance the quality of an older person’s life by offering a trusting relationship with a young person. Speaking to the Gazette, Mary O’Donohue, project manager of Making Connections, explained the background to the concept.
“Volunteers visit an elderly person on their own, or who just feels isolated, on average once a week for an hour for a chat or to share an interest or hobby. We had a stand in UCD to explain what the service was about and to encourage people to volunteer for the coming year.” The concept behind the blindfolding was to encourage communication and listening skills, she explains. “We had a workshop where a facilitator came in to the group who were interested in volunteering and she was doing communication skills with them. “What happens is they get blindfolded and have certain different plas-
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
No objection to office DEAR EDITOR,
With regards to the Letter to the Editor of September 29 from Mr Breasal O’Caollai, we would like to make clear that the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Chamber of Commerce did not object to Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett opening an office in Dun Laoghaire. On the contrary, our submission clearly stated that “we support and applaud Deputy Boyd Barrett’s goal of opening a constituency office in Dun Laoghaire town”. We are disappointed that some people sought to politicise our observations for their own end. In representing the concerns and interests of our members we reserve the right to comment, and advocate on their behalf both locally and nationally. As for other deputies with offices in this area, none were in ground-floor, street-front locations in the core retail area of Lower George’s Street and none to my knowledge required planning permission. We recognise and agree that the planning process should be objective, free of discrimination and openly representative of all the community whether home owner, business person or politician. We support the County Council’s decision to approve the Constituency Office subject to conditions that limit any precedent that might weaken the retail core of the town in the long term. I would be grateful if you would please publish this letter to correct a serious error in Mr O’Caollai’s earlier correspondence.
Hal Ledford Chief Executive Officer Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Chamber
tic shapes in their hands. They had to explain to each other what they had in their hands without looking at it. It was really an exercise in listening to each other. They had to see how well they could describe them. The facilitator was trying to highlight the importance of listening skills.”
Training O’Donohue explained that there are regular training nights for those who are interested in volunteering. “All our training nights would have some aspect of visiting people on their own. One day, it could be a focus on Alzheimer’s. It’s about aspects of volunteering.”
The workshop was the last of three events organised by Making Connections in order to foster better relationships between the younger and older generations in the community “The very first one was a Starbucks-sponsored coffee morning in July in the company’s Blackrock branch in Blackrock. It was between older people and students and was very enjoyable on both sides,” she said. The second event was lunchtime stand in UCD in September to talk to students about volunteering for the coming year, at which the organisation got a lot of expressions of interest from the students.
The third event came out of that, as O’Donohue explains: “We promised the students this event, as they can be a bit apprehensive about communicating with elderly people.” The workshop lasted an hour and the blindfold exercise went on for three or four minutes, she explained “The facilitator did a lot about listening and communicating skills, we’re really pleased with how it went.” For more information about volunteering for Making Connections, please contact them on 01-2951053, by email at info@makingconnections.ie or via their website at www. makingconnections.ie.
RETAIL: NEW SHOP TO OPEN BY END OF NOVEMBER
Supervalu to replace Tesco store S U P E R VA L U h a v e announced that they will move into the site in Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre that was previously occupied by British retail giants, Tesco. The British superm a r ke t c h a i n h a d announced the closure of its branch in the shopping centre in May of this year. The intention was to merge the branch with the existing one at nearby Bloomfields Shopping Centre. Supervalu will completely refit the supermarket and have indicated that they expect to have the branch open by the last week of November, in preparation to take advantage of the Christmas trade. Speaking to the Gazette, Independent Councillor Victor Boyhan, said the development was “super news for Dun Laoghaire Town Centre”. “I met with a number of the retailers and there was generally great excitement there, there was a worry that the shopping centre was going to be without a major retailer following
Tesco’s departure. It was no secret that Supervalu had carried out some surveys in town; they had people doing questionnaires and I was stopped myself.” Supervalu had entered into an agreement with the Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre management team and have circulated a letter to the other retailers indicating their intent to move in at the end of November. The reaction to the news has been “excellent”, according to Cllr Boyhan. “It’s good news for the town, it’s good news for jobs and for the shopping centre who were missing a major tenant. “I raised the issue at the last council meeting and the general feeling was it’s going to revitalise the centre, which had experienced a major drop in sales and income since Tesco closed. Nobody goes into a shopping centre unless there’s an anchor tenant there.” He stressed that another plus is Supervalu’s level of community commitment. “They sponsored the
Supervalu will open a new store at Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre
national Tidy Town, and they’re involved in a lot of community activity wherever they are.” He said he was particularly pleased that Supervalu were coming to fill the gap in the shopping centre, as Dunnes Stores had recently shut their retail outlet in the heart of the town as well. Tesco had been paying an annual rent of €525,000 for the 1,858sq m (20,000sq ft) supermarket, located in the basement of the centre. The lease expired at the end of last year. It was not known at time of going to press how much will be paid by Supervalu.
Councillor Victor Boyhan
6 October 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 3
Students: Avail of special offers at local AIB!
COLLEGE: IADT APPOINTS NEW CHAIRPERSON
CONOR Farrell (12) was the
lucky winner of a HP laptop in a recent draw at his local AIB branch in Dun Laoghaire. All Conor had to do was open a Student Account, and he was automatically entered in the draw. Pictured with Conor is student officer, Sonya Bailey, and branch manager Sinead Murphy. For more special student discounts, offers and advice on student life, including student travel cards and Golden Ticket giveaways, just visit AIB’s dedicated student website www.stuff4students.ie where a wealth of useful stuff awaits.
AWARDS: DUN LAOGHAIRE-RATHDOWN COUNTY ENTERPRISE BOARD
Dr Annie Doona, president of IADT, and Ronan O Muirthile, chairperson, governing body, IADT
Celebrity Bainisteoir producer heads IADT Q DAWN LOVE
Web Team founder wins big Q DAWN LOVE dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com
THE founder and CEO of a Dalkey-based web company was celebrating this week after she was named as Female Entrepreneur of the Year at the Fly Higher Awards, organised by the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Enterprise Board. Mar y Cronin, the founder and CEO of Web Team International (WTI) launched her company in 2008 which provides bespoke web services to small and medium businesses to enable them to manage their own web content. WTI also holds contracts from UK clients who outsource their IT services. Cronin studied electronic engineering at Waterford Institute of
Technology prior to working in the UK as a software engineer, specialising in graphics and robotics. She later moved into the financial sector as a Technical Project Manager with major financial institutions, including Barclays Merchant Bank and Thompsons Financial Services and, by 2004, had become the Technical Director of a cutting-edge b2b online service in the fashion advertising industry. Maintain
Returning to Dublin in 2008, Cronin decided to pursue her ambitions in entrepreneurship and founded Web Team Ireland, which provides affordable web development services to SMEs. Clients were offered web site set-up and training,
Mary Cronin, nominated in the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Enterprise Board Awards
which allows them to maintain the content of their sites without the need for technicallyskilled staff. The unique offering appealed to a growing number of Irish companies. “WTI actively empowers each client by offering tools which enable them to ‘own’ their on-line assets and their ability to administer and manage these assets without the need for technical staff,” the thrilled businesswoman told the Gazette
this week. In December, 2010, WTI expanded its services when the company secured a contract to provide outsourced IT services to UK clients. It was re-launched as Web Team International and a phase of rapid expansion followed. “Clients of ‘WTI Outsourced IT’, contract all or part of their IT activities to us and as a result can reduce their IT overhead and place a greater focus on their core business activities,”
she explained. WTI also offers clients a full software development service, which includes research, prototyping, modification, reengineering and maintenance. Since its inception WTI has grown from being a sole trader to employing seven highly skilled IT specialists, and Cronin says she is hopeful that further expansion in activities and employment will continue over the coming year.
SERIES Producer of TV hits such as Celebrity Bainisteoir and Secret Millionaire, Ronan O Muirthile has been appointed as chairperson of Dun Laoghaire’s Institute of Technology, Art and Design. The five-year appointment by Minister for Education and Skills Ruairi Quinn was announced last week. Reacting to his appointment O Muirthile said he was “very excited about his new and challenging role and that he is looking forward to working with the Governing Body, the President of the Institute, the staff and, most particularly, the students of the Institute”. “This is both a challenging and exciting time for IADT as it reaches its 15th birthday. IADT is
entering into the development of a new strategy within the context of the HEA Strategy for Higher Education. IADT faces the future from a position of strength with growing student numbers and expected exciting new developments on its campus in Dun Laoghaire.” Key element
We l c o m i n g t h e appointment, Dr Annie Doona, President of IADT said: “I look forward, along with the staff and student body of the Institute, to working with Ronan in this new phase of IADT’s development. Ronan’s appointment is a key element of the governance of the Institute and ensures that the Institute remains close to the creative and cultural industries for which it provides high-quality graduates.”
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4 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 October 2011
GOT A STORY?
EVENT HSE National Breastfeeding Week
TELL US ABOUT YOUR LOCAL EVENT, CELEBRATION OR FUNCTION
Breakfast with Santa at Dundrum centre
Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com
ENTERPRISENEWS
Pamela Flood, left, with little seven-month-old James Slevin and mom Denise . Picture: Mark Stedman Michael Johnson, the CEO of DLRCEB
DLRCEB announces additional Financial Support for New Jobs DLRCEB has just received an additional special allocation form Government in respect of new job creation in Micro Enterprises. The allocation of €3.1 million nationally which must be approved and drawn down by companies by the 31st December 2011 can be used to offset the costs associated with the creation of new jobs. The qualification criteria for support are the same as normal - with priority given to Enterprises that can show potential for internationalisation and export. Michael Johnson, the CEO of DLRCEB welcomed the initiative as a much needed shot in the arm for locally based enterprises, he indicated that €200,000 had been allocated to DLR and the intention is to fund the creation of 20 new jobs. The funds are open to both start up companies and existing companies seeking to grow. Each application needs to have a business plan and financial projections showing the sustainability potential for the jobs and viability projected for the business. DLRCEB has already approved over €500,000 investment in local enterprises in 2011 and this additional allocation means that it can continue to support businesses that are having severe difficulty in sourcing the funding necessary to start or grow their activity. Full information can be found on www.dlrceb.ie or by contacting info@dlrceb.ie or calling 014948400
EVENT: HAMLEY’S PARTY
The perfect way to feed children Q DAWN LOVE
A HOST of events aimed at highlighting National Breastfeeding Week have been organised throughout Dublin South this October. The HSE National Breastfeeding Week was officially launched last Friday by TV personality and new mum, Pamela Flood. HSE National Breastfeeding Week will run until Friday, October 7. The theme this year is Breastfeeding Friendly, which aims to portray breastfeeding when out and about as a normal, natural part of daily life. Speaking about her experience of breastfeeding, Pamela Flood said: ‘Breastfeeding has been brilliant for both me and my little boy. Not
only has it been the best for him nutritionally, it is so handy and easy to do anywhere. As a firsttime mum you constantly wonder if you’re doing everything right but, with breastfeeding, there are no doubts or worries that it’s the very best you can do for your child.’ The HSE will lead the Breastfeeding Friendly initiative by supporting breastfeeding in HSE premises. HSE centres and hospitals will display Breastfeeding Friendly posters and other promotional materials demonstrating that they support breastfeeding and provide a welcoming atmosphere for breastfeeding mums. Amongst the events taking place in Dublin South will be a coffee morning on Friday, October 7 at the Foxrock Pas-
toral Centre adjacent to Foxrock Church. For further information you can contact Grainne Gallwey on 087 7596718. There will also be an evening event with Sue Jameson on making connections for new mums and mums-to-be entitled Laid back Breastfeeding. This will take place at 7.45pm on Friday, October 7 at Mount Merrion Community Care adjacent to St Theresa’s
Church in Mount Merrion. For further information contact 086 8565787. T he Breastfeeding Friendly campaign seeks to highlight that breastfeeding is the per fect way to feed children and also fits in with the demands of modern life and that women should be supported to continue to breastfeed as long as they wish.
THE magic of Christmas will be in the air from mid-November at Dundrum Town Centre as Hamley’s will be hosting their Breakfast with Santa event. From November 12 until Christmas Eve, the store will be hosting a delicious breakfast for children from 7.30 to 9.00. They will be waited on hand and foot by a troupe of Santa’s elves who will greet guests and make them feel welcome, entertaining them throughout the morning. The children’s parents will be invited to watch as af ter wards each of the little guests will have the chance to have an individual chat with Santa. They will be regaled with stories about Lapland and Christmas, where Santa will draw upon his long experience of travelling the world by reindeer sleigh on Christmas Eve. When he’s finished entertaining the children and has to go back to Mrs. Claus, his special guests will still be able to get into the Christmas spirit further. They will each get an exclusive Hamley’s goody bag to take home. The venue is in Hamley’s Party Room. Any child, big or small, aged above three is welcome to come for what promises to be a magical Christmas event.
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Pamela Flood with Coveney and Hourigan families
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6 October 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 5
SOCIAL Social Inclusion week kicks off this week, from October 8-15
Over 70 events on offer in this celebration Q STAFF REPORTER
BROADCASTER Olivia O’Leary got Social Inclusion Week off to an official start when she launched the week’s action packed programme at the New Civic Square “The Metals”, Dun Laoghaire. The programme, which features more than 70 events, will showcase best practice social inclusion initiatives across the
county and hopes to encourage residents to more actively participate and engage with others in their local community. Speaking at the launch Olivia said: “This is a celebration of equality, inclusion, participation; a celebration of community and of togetherness. Above all, it is a celebration of people.” Meanwhile Cathaoirleach of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown,
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‘This is a celebration of equality, inclusion, participation; a celebration of community and of togetherness’ ------------------------------------------------------------------
Fine Gael Cllr John Bailey will kick-start Social Inclusion Week’s celebrations next week at the DLR Community 5k in Kilbogget Park, Ballybrack, and everyone is encouraged to
join him there at 2pm on October 8. The full programme runs from Saturday, October 8 until Saturday, October 15. “The full programme this year includes a huge range of
public events that have been developed with the support of many local bodies, and I am heartened to see yet another example of the co-operative approach that exists between local statutory and voluntary groups to support inclusion in the County,” said Cllr Bailey. Programme highlights include the Shorts Film Festival, Victor and Gord, Latin American Dance Classes, dis-
ability and business events, “Suitcase Stories” , soccer tournaments, an international tennis day, theatre and drama. There will also be music from the Muslim National School Choir and The Raging Hormones, Rehabcare and Carmona Services, Phaze 3 and many more. Go to www.dlrcoco.ie/ socialinclusion for full programme details.
DRIVING: NEALE RICHMOND
Welcome for new licences PLANS to introduce wide-ranging road safety laws, including a brand new plastic driving licence, have been welcomed this week by local Fine Gael Cllr Neale Richmond. “This new plastic card driving licence will bring Ireland into line with EU requirements,” he said.
“This will be of huge benefit to Irish tourists who at present have difficulty using their Irish driving licences abroad. I also welcome the other proposals that Minister Varadkar is bringing forward, as lower alcohol limits and higher penalty points,” he said.
GOT A STORY? WE WANT TO KNOW! Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com Children at Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council Social Inclusion Week. Picture: Jason Clarke
EVENT: ‘60 YEARS - STORIES OF SURVIVAL AND SAFE HAVEN’
Fascinating stories Q DAWN LOVE
FASCINATING sto ries of sur vival and safe haven take centre stage at an exhibition being brought to Dun Laoghaire this October by the UN Refugee Office in Ireland. The exhibition will take place as part of Social Inclusion Week, from October 10 until October 14, marks the 60th Anniversary of the UN Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, established in 1951. The photos tell the stor y of 11 refugees
who came to Ireland from many parts of the world over the past 60 years and were taken by award- winning photojournalists from The Irish Lightstalkers. Speaking to the Gazette, Sophie Magennis, Head of Office, UNHCR Ireland said: “We are delighted to bring the UNHCR Ireland ‘60 Years - Stories of Survival and Safe Haven’ photo exhibition to Dun Laoghaire for Social Inclusion Week following its very successful run during World Refugee Day 2011 in June and
its appearance as part of the PhotoIreland festival in July.
Protection “The exhibition shows Ireland’s long history of solidarity with people in need of international protection from persecution, terror, fear and conflict. Ireland has offered a safe haven to refugees even in the most difficult economic circumstances of the 1950s and 1980s. We think the exhibition might surprise people with how deep this bond has always been. “ S o c i a l I n cl u s i o n
Week shows that when we come together in a spirit of friendship, we can create a fairer and more equal society that supports and involves everyone, including the most vulnerable. This exhibition also shows the great contribution refugees have made to the communities in which they now live, as doctors, pharmacists, school children and parents. “I believe that people in Ireland have long held a shared humanity with those who are suffering in the world. While we wish that UNHCR did
not have to exist today, there are currently over 43 million people displaced by conflict and persecution who still need our help. Even one refugee without hope is one too many,” she said. The exhibition will open Monday, October 10, 2011 in the Pop Up Shop in Park House, Upper George’s St, Dun Laoghaire (beside the People’s Park). It will run from 10am- 4pm daily until Friday, October14. UNHCR will officially launch the exhibition at 12 noon Friday, October 14.
6 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 October 2011
AS GAEILGE Local win for public speaking A B O O T E R S T OW N student is celebrating following his win at the Ri Cheile public speaking forum for Scottish and Irish students held in Clondalkin recently. Transition Year student Colm O’Neill attended the for um, along with team-mates Cillian O Seanain, and Aindriu O hEachtairn and teacher Ciaran O Duinneacha. O’Neill is a member of Colaiste Eoin’s junior debating team who won the 2011 Junior All-Ireland Title of Gael Linn’s debating competition Comortas Ui Chadhain. R i Cheile means “together ” in Scots’ Gaelic or “le cheile” in Irish, and the purpose of this annual event is to foster ties between young people from both countries and to give them an opportunity to explore similarities between their two languages.
ART Ireland’s largest Water Colour Society’s
Wonderful art event Q STAFF REPORTER
news@gazettegroup.com
ORGANISERS of the Water Colour Society of Ireland exhibition promise that this year’s event is set to be one of the best yet. The event sees many new members exhibiting, and boasts a wide range of traditional and contemporary style art on offer. An even greater number of well-known Irish artists are involved, and the paintings are on sale at prices reflecting the current economic downturn. The 157th exhibition of watercolours –Ireland’slargest– is to go on show to the public in Dublin for two weeks in October. It opens at the Concourse Arts Gallery at the Dun
Laoghaire County Hall on Monday, October 10 and runs until Saturday, October 22. There will be more than 110 watercolourists exhibiting this year, among them nine new members, which will add fresh, new depth to the exhibition. Finest
Among the many leading Irish contemporary artists from various parts of the country and overseas showing are Royal Hibernian Academy and Royal Ulster Academy members, who are also members of the Water Colour Society of Ireland, an illustrious body founded as far back as 1870 that includes some of Ireland’s finest watercolourists.
A wide range of traditional and contemporary art will be on offer with as many as 290 paintings in watercolour, gouache and pastels, as well as drawings and prints, on sale to the public this year at affordable prices for topquality art. One of the country’s biggest annual group art shows, the WCSI exhibition presents a real diversity of work with an immense variety of styles and subjects in watercolours, the most difficult of artistic media, with each artist showing one or more works selected from individual submissions. It is the only large exhibition in Ireland consisting entirely of works on paper. Subjects
Subjects featured will include landscapes, seascapes, still life, portraits, animal and floral studies, as well as botanical and architectural works, in representational, contemporary and abstract treatments. Prices range from about €250 for a small etching upwards, with most priced at around €350 - €850. A landscape painting by well-known watercolourist George Oakley has been chosen for the catalogue cover and exhibition posters this year. Member artist Patrick Cahill has very kindly donated a streetscape in watercolour for the raffle (tickets available during the exhibition at €5), which will be drawn on the closing day, Saturday, October 22. Well-known artists showing include: Desmond Carrick RHA, William Carron ARHA, Brid Clarke, Ivor Coburn A RUA , J o h n C o y l e RHA, Chris Dearden RUA, Joe Dunne RHA, Edward Freeney, James Hanley RHA, Olivia Hayes, Les Jones ARUA, John Keating, Vincent Lambe, Grania Langrishe, Nancy Larchet,
O. Roche - The Czech Girl
J. Short - Fortyfoot Diving Sandycove Co Dublin
A n t h o ny L o u g h r a n , Fergal MacCabe, Brett McEntagart RHA, James Nolan RHA, Terence O’Connell, Marc Raynaud, Tom Roche, Tom Ryan PPRHA, Susan Sex, Neil Shawcross RUA and the Society’s new president, Pauline Doyle ANCA. Awards
Eight sponsored awards, including the Water Colour Society President’s Prize, will be
presented to exhibitors in recognition of distinctive work again this year. These will be chosen by the various sponsors and awarded at the opening on Sunday, October 9. An Art Activity Day open to the public free of charge will be held on Saturday, October 15, with watercolour demonstrations by exhibiting artists Kate Bedell and Vincent Lambe in the morning (11am to 1pm), followed by a Draw In,
a drawing session in which the public can join, in the afternoon, 2pm to 4pm. T he Water Colour Society of Ireland’s 157th Exhibition is admission free to the public Monday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm (October 10 – 22). The exhibition closes on Saturday, October 22 at 1pm. Details of all the events during the exhibition can be found at www.watercoloursocietyofireland.ie
6 October 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 7
exhibition at the Concourse Arts Gallery Hall
to draw in the public B. McEntagart RHA - Dun Laoghaire Sunset
J. Dunne RHA - October Near the City
J. Dunne RHA - Portrait Study of Elena
HARBOUR Funds for diaspora centre A PLANNED diaspora centre at Dun Laoghaire harbour will cost up to €50 million and will need donations of up to €15 million, according to the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company (DLHC). The centre has been touted as a rival to the Guggenheim and Sydney Opera House by the company, who are aiming to complete the project in time for Ireland’s EU council presidency in 2013. Sean Costello, chairman of DLHC, and Gerry Dunne, its chief executive, have held meetings with the American Ireland fund, the New Yorkbased Irish Voice newspaper, and Susan O’Neill & Associates, a firm that specialises in fundraising, with a view to raising the €15 million. The company are also hoping to raise €30 million from the EU and request the remaining €5 million from the State.
8 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 October 2011
COMMUNITY Beechfield Manor Nursing Home, Shankill, hosts
Builders Willie Nugent, John Hore and Graham Purcell were happy to try their hand as waiters
Sociable seniors get together for a cause ESIDENTS of Beechfield Manor Nursing Home, Shankill were joined by friends, family, staff members and locals for a recent fundraising coffee morning in aid of Age Action Ireland, to help celebrate ESB Electric Ireland Positive Ageing Week. With a tempting range of fresh cream scones, teas and coffees to savour, everyone was delighted to help play a delicious part in supporting the initiative, sitting in the comfortable surroundings of Beechfield’s newly-refur-
R
bished dining room. With an extensive renovation and extension programme under way, it was no surprise that the builders were also keen to join Mary Clear, director of nursing, and everyone else in supporting the event. The morning was a great way of highlighting the initiative, and the positive contribution that elder members of the local community make every day.
Rose Rowsome
Margaret Jenkins
Margaret Ryan
Karen Kelly, activities co-ordinator, with Doris Timbs.
Joan Turner
Des Tierney
Mary Clear, Director of Nursing
6 October 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9
a coffee morning to help support a positive ageing initiative
Maureen O’Hanlon
Pictures: Geraldine
Elizabeth Waston
Woods
James Mooney and Ross Duffy
John Hore steams ahead with the task of tea-pouring
Alma Aughney
Patricia Freeman, activities co-ordinator
10 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 October 2011
COMMUNITY A colourful carnival sets up in Cabinteely Park
The Barren Carousel delighted onlookers with their wacky acrobatics and feats of agility
Angelic Helen Wallace and Niamh Kavanagh, from Bui Bolg Group, greeted passersbys with a heavenly “Hello”. Pictures: Enda Doran
Easing families into the autumn
ANY Dun Laoghaire faces were spotted in the crowds enjoying the the Cabinteely Carnival at Cabinteely Park recently, hosted by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. The free family fun day saw a host of activities and colourful characters set up at the park, courtesy of DLR Events, as lots of families and other locals took in the sights and sounds at
M
the bustling location. The carnival featured free bouncy castles and inflatable games, face painters, clowns, unicycles and street performance shows by the McGilligan Brothers, Johnny the Juggler and The Barren Carousel, with everyone helping to create a late burst of summer fun to go with the Indian summer weather. It was a great way to ease everyone into the cooling autumn days.
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
Dun LaoghaireGazette CALL US ON 60 10 240 One of The McGilligan Brothers in action
John and Ben O’Hanlon have fun on the carousel
6 October 2011 GAZETTE 11
GazetteNUTRITION NUTRITION FEEDING THE BODY AND MIND: LEILA JOHARI EXPLAINS HOW FOOD EFFECTS MOOD
Kick the autumn blues with some healthy eating LEILA JOHARI
F O R m a ny p e o p l e autumn can be a gloomy time. Summer has ended, holidays are over, days are getting darker and colder. There is not much to look forward to and often people feel slightly depressed and low. Autumn doesn’t have to be this way. It can be seen as a second new year. It is the perfect time to rev up your energy levels and prepare for those winter months. Poor eating habits can lead to lack of energy, anxiety and depression. By understanding balanced eating, it is easy improve your energy levels and boost your mood. To function properly, your body needs a daily intake of a full range of essential nutrients, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, pulses, whole grains, lowfat dairy products, lean meats, fish and healthy oils such as olive. The foods we eat contain two main categories
of nutrients. Macronutrients include proteins, carbohydrates and fats, and provide energy. Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients found in fruit and vegetables. They play a critical role in maintaining the body’s normal functions and processes. The key to achieving a healthy, well-balanced diet is to eat a wide variety of different foods. Raw materials
Levels of depression are higher among people eating mostly junk food. These foods are heavily processed and contain additives. People who eat lots of junk foods tend not to eat enough healthy food. In simple terms, your body and brain are made from the foods you eat – if you don’t give it the basic raw materials then nothing will work the way it should. If you put unleaded petrol in a car that runs on diesel the consequences would not be good! So, what foods are best
to avoid and what foods are best to eat in order to achieve optimum health? A high-sugar diet can affect our mood. While high levels of sugar in the blood make us feel better temporarily it is followed by a sugar crash that causes a severe dip in mood. Instead of snacking on sugary foods, such as cakes and biscuits, choose foods, such as oatcakes, which help balance blood sugar levels by releasing energy slowly. Junk foods contain saturated fats. Such fats are unhealthy and on digestion can release a lot of toxins into your body. Saturated fats are found in foods, such as red meat, cheese, butter and cakes. There are certain nutrients that are particularly beneficial for keeping the brain, and so our moods, healthy. Iron is essential for healthy brain development and is found in lean red meat, chicken, turkey, green vegetables, such as
spinach and pulses. Antioxidants help to protect the body from toxins and keep blood vessels healthy. The best sources of antioxidants are fresh fruit and vegetables. It is the perfect season for apples which help fight the effects of bad cholesterol and prevent heart disease. Next time you want dessert, why not try a stewed apple with cinnamon? Omega-3 fats are essential for healthy brain function. They can be as effective as some antidepressants in treating mild depression. Oil-rich fish such as mackerel, salmon and trout are good sources. Finally, B vitamins, especially thiamine, improve mood. The best sources are B vitamins are found in high-fibre foods, such as whole grain cereals and bread, and in fortified milk and yogurt. This autumn don’t let your mood fall like the leaves!
The Gazette’s new nutrition expert, Leila Johari
12 GAZETTE 6 October 2011
WEDDINGS
A big day at Green Isle Hotel THE Green Isle Hotel Dublin offers an innovative and elegant wedding programme with a trained, professional team to ensure that every wedding is truly memorable. A combination of excellent menus and wines, the loveliest linens and floral arrangements and a choice of banqueting suites make choosing the perfect venue easy. The team will work tirelessly to ensure the big day is a special one for all involved. The staff will help choose the best menu to suit every budget, and, with their years of experience, can advise on entertainment, wines or ideas on table decorations and photography. All-inclusive packages, such as a wedding reception for 100 guests for only €3,300, are available. Call 01 4593406 to make an appointment to meet the team and see the room set for a wedding.
EDUCATION Student spends six weeks in Singapore
An internship of a lifetime Q PAUL HOSFORD
FOR any 18-year old, spending six weeks in a foreign country is an intimidating prospect, but for Seth Smith the chance to spend the summer after completing his Leaving Cert in Singapore was one that was too good to refuse. The confident youngster, who begins studying Computer Science in Trinity this month, was part of the Digital Life Academy (DLA) an intensive six-week programme designed to inspire young people to start up their own companies. Even so, he bristles at the notion of being labelled an entrepreneur. “I think an entrepreneur is someone who takes on a risk. It’s a word that is thrown around a lot, but I would like to be a successful businessman. “To be completely honest, it was quite random becoming involved. My friend got an email from his brother about the internship and I looked at it and thought it sounded
amazing. “So I went home and made a video presentation and sent it off. “Then I got a few missed calls and checked my email at about midnight and there was one saying I’d got the internship.” Given that Singapore has spent S$1 billion setting up the Technopreneurship Investment Fund (TIF) to attract and encourage companies to undertake risks of backing promising ideas, it is the ideal place to kick off the DLA and a place Seth had no problem going to. “I’ve always been an independent type and I quite like that. I’m currently looking for an apartment myself for college.” The DLA aims to educate a new class of entrepreneurs, who thrive on the usage of social media. Interns are given training in areas like company formation, fundraising, product development, marketing and financial management. Talks feature key figures in internet
and business, including Yahoo! Inc’s David Gowdey, Google’s Julian Persaud and Ocean Group International’s Timur Sardarov. The whole experience is one that left Seth in awe. “It was mind-blowing. There was 33 people from 17 different countries and the atmosphere created was a serious buzz. “We were all running around, working on various projects and it was amazing. “I think Singapore is much more upbeat. We’d work from 9am to 8pm and you wouldn’t even notice. We’d all go for dinner and then go back to work. It was never forced on us, but we felt obliged to do it because we enjoyed it. “The DLA is an unforgettable experience that will change your whole perspective on what it takes to start a company. I feel so fortunate in being given the opportunity to work with like-minded individuals who share the same passion as myself. Hopefully,
I will work with people like this in the future. “ T h e DL A is going to be repeated between January and March and I will be very involved and, hopefully, we’ll have an Irish person involved.” For more, see here http://w w w.digitallifeacademy.com/ about
Dubliner Seth Smith took part in a six-week programme with the Digital Life Academy in Singapore
6 October 2011 GAZETTE 13
Wedding bliss: Ideal location for the big day EVERY one wants to be somewhere special for their Wedding Day. The five-star Radisson Blu St Helen’s Hotel is very special, centered on a fine 18th-century mansion set in four acres of formal gardens. Guests get all the advantages of a world-class, five-star hotel with all of the character of a Georgian stately home, with stunning photo opportunities! For that special wedding day, be it an intimate or large, traditional gathering, the Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel can cater for both in the perfect surroundings of the magnificent garden. The hotel recently hosted a Wedding Fair including a fashion show on the lawns that featured newly crowned Miss Ireland, Holly Carpenter. For further information contact Radisson Blu St Helen’s Hotel, Stillorgan, on 01 218 6000 or visit www.radissonblu. ie/sthelenshotel-dublin, or see their facebook page on www.facebook.com/ radissonblusthelensdublin.
14 GAZETTE 6 October 2011
GazettePETS PETS
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
PETS AND FAMILIES: DON’T FORGET, THERE IS MORE TO OWNING A DOG THAN WALKS
Kids, do you have what it takes to own a dog? S A small child, I grew up with dogs, and, as an awkward, geeky teenager, most of the time the only friend who totally understood me was Kimmie, my beautiful, faithful, chocolate brown Wheaten Terrier whom my dad bought for me when I came home from hospital as a one-year-old toddler. Kimmie remained my
A
Almost all kids dream of having their very own dog, but answer our questions to see if they have what it takes to take care of their new best friend
faithful best friend until his death from testicular cancer when I was 17 years old. So, it’s fair to say I love dogs; (regular readers will know this), and I always knew when I became a mom, my kids (now adults) would have dogs and would be brought up to love, care, nurture and cherish them, just as I was. And, no, we’re not the Brady Bunch; we’re more like The Simpsons. So, when parents ask me if I believe kids and dogs go together, my answer is always going to be a resounding YES! But I also ask the parents if they personally want a dog and if the answer is “NO,” then I advise them to consider asking their child who will “absolutely love and walk and care for the dog,” the following questions in order to help them plan effectively for their new best friend. So, if you’re a kid who’s trying to prove to your parents you’re capable of taking care of a dog, see how many of the following questions you can answer: • Am I kind and gentle
someone needs help and
• When you take your
do I help them?
dog for a walk you must
• During the past
pick up the poo. You
week, how many times
must carry poo bags
and ways have I been
and you must bin them
responsible?
properly. • Dogs shed hair.
And then… I know I’m responsible, but how do I let my family know I’m responsible enough to have a dog as a pet?
• Dogs can vomit.
• Tell them about a time
carpet.
when you were kind to
• Dogs can jump up
an animal. For example,
and down on your new
did you help an injured
clothes and chew your
animal? Did you feed
favourite toys.
the birds who visit your
• Dogs need to be taken
garden?
to the vet, they need to
• Decide how much time
be groomed and bathed
you’ll have to spend with
and they need their nails
your dog and tell your
clipped.
mom how you plan to
• Dogs get worms, ear
spend it. How much time
mites and fleas.
will you have to walk,
• Dogs can run away
groom and play with
from home so they must
your dog?
be microchipped.
• Find out what type of
• Dogs need to be put
food you’ll feed your dog
into boarding kennels
and how much it will cost
when you go on holiday,
each week.
or they need a pet sitter.
• Read the Dublin SPCA’s
• Dogs need lots of
special information
things, like leads,
on the importance of
collars, a kennel, a bed
spaying and neutering
for the house because
your dog.
a dog must be allowed
• Ask your family if
access to your home; he
everyone else living in
cannot be left outside all
the house is happy to
of the time.
have a dog.
• And… the saddest fact
when it comes to dealing with animals?
• During the past week, how many times and
• Puppies are cute but
ways have I shown
they grow into big dogs.
kindness to people and
Not all dogs grow big but
animals?
some do; so check with
• Am I responsible? (This
your vet and find out
means, that I can think
what type of dog is likely
for myself).
to be large and what
• Do I know when the
type is likely to remain
right thing needs to be
small.
done and do I do it?
• Dogs bark. Some bark
• Do I know when
an awful lot of the time.
to spend with a dog?
furniture; especially a teething puppy. • Dogs can pee and poo and make a mess on the
of all kids; some day,
When your child has read and understood the above, ask them to keep the following in mind:
• Have I got lots of time
• Dogs can chew
sadly, your dog will die.
So, boys and girls, you’ve answered all of the above and are happy you still want a dog as a pet. Wonderful. Get Mom to get in touch with the Dublin SPCA; at www.dspca.ie we’ve lots of cuties just waiting on their forever homes. For more information email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie
6 October 2011 GAZETTE 15
GazetteMUSIC MUSIC INTERVIEW: DUBLIN 15 BAND LEARNING THE ROPES ON THE ROAD AND ONLINE
Magic and hard graft the keys to music success Q ROB HEIGH
THE playing field for new bands keeps changing as new media avenues open up, but one thing that stays true is that hard graft and dedication will get you to the next level. This is especially true of local band, Last Second Magic, who are travelling to Canada next week to take part in Toronto Indie Week for the second consecutive year. The hardest working band in Dublin 15 have built up a dedicated following across the city and across the wider world with their melodic stylings, exciting gigs and inspired cover versions. But their ongoing success is based on more than just those strengths, as GazetteMusic found out when we spoke to lead singer, Paul Hosford. “More and more people are getting interested in the band. We’re keen to make sure we know and understand what is working for us, because there are thousands of bands out there, and you need to be smarter about that kind of thing to make sure you are seen.” The band came from the ashes of Blanchardstown band, A Careless Thief, and the collective have seen a number of personnel changes, which have led to a settled lineup who are reaping the rewards of hard work and understanding how to reach their audience. “Since we went to Toronto last year, we have had a lot of change; we have had a member leave and two new ones join us, so we are a different band in many ways, including the way we approach making music. “We were looking at
our sets, and we have only two or three songs that are still in the set from this time last year. We are still playing to our melodic and clever strengths, but there is a more crafted approach in what we do. “This will be our third Indie Week, as we did Toronto last year, Indie Week Ireland in March and now back to Toronto. We’re playing a gig in Niagara Falls, and there will be a week of gigs for us. “We learned a huge amount the last time we were there as a band. In terms of the business side of things — PR, design, how you portray yourself in the media and social media, getting things organised.” The band came back
inspired by their last trip to Canada, and recorded and released their last EP, We Miss You, Black Stalin, and the expectation is that all they have learned since then, together with another great experience in front of international audiences, will see another burst of creativity and career building. “T he last EP was recorded with Lee Boylan, drummer with Fight Like Apes, and taking time to put a bit of effort and care into what we do is really important, as we learned in Toronto last year. “When we come back, we’re planning to record a full album. We have a set of songs that we’re happy with, and our enthusiasm and energy is rising with
Last Second Magic are on their way to Toronto to take part in the Indie Week showcase
16 GAZETTE 6 October 2011
GazetteGAMING GAMING Bytesandpieces Masterpieces re-released in HD TWO “new” PlayStation 3 titles have been rereleased that are practically reason enough to buy Sony’s console. Conveniently bundled together, Ico and Shadow of the Colossus (below) are two titles that, individually and collectively, come as close to defining pure genius in gaming as anything else in the past 30-odd years or so. Both titles were released on the PlayStation 2 several years ago to universal acclaim – and universally underwhelming sales. Critics adored the titles, but gamut the general gam ing public ignored them (as the comprehensive reviews of both titles on Wikipedia may explain). However, with both titles constantly appearing near the top in critics’ Best Games of All Time lists, Ico, and Shadow of the Colossus, have been re-released in HD. There’s no highly-polished redesign; the games re-use the same assets – but, presented in crisp, widescreen glory, there’s no excuse for PS3 gamers not to grab a copy now of these two singularly memorable titles. My reason to just buy a new PlayStation 3 has hit the shelves ...
A highly-polished Gears SHANE DILLON
ALTHOUGH I certainly don’t want to get in the habit of returning to previously mentioned titles, or to seem like I favour one console over another (as I don’t), I’m returning tto Gears of War 3, as I said I would do so in my previous column. p By now, Gears has swept aside all opposittion in the charts, which was a sure-fire certainty w ffor Microsoft, with Gears being a key franchise for the XBox in ways that, say, the Metal Gear Solid franchise is for PlayStation. So, having blitzed through the single-player campaign, as well as stormed through the multiplayer modes, how does this conclusion to the trilogy play out?
Fortunately, the series has reached a satisfying conclusion, along with all of the manic set pieces and all-out action fans could expect, with an hour spent with Gears generally providing more action than many a film director’s entire canon. And yet, lest nongamers or mildly curious readers dismiss the game as just another frantic shooter, there’s a noticeably thoughtful undercurrent underpinning the trilogy’s conclusion, thanks to the series writer, Karen Traviss. Sensibly deciding that, even in such a hectic action game, the good guys don’t always win – and that heroes die just like everybody else – she’s given emotional and intellectual depth to the conclusion, for those
Things don’t look good for Marcus and his friends as mutated Lambent attack, in a fairly typical scene from Gears of War 3
who look behind the visuals and gameplay. And what gameplay. The single-player mode is, of course, packed full of memorable pieces, but the mutiplayer is pretty striking, In addition to the usual player-vs-player, team-vs-team modes, the most interesting, Horde,
sees a random group of people team up to fight through progressively tougher waves of enemies, requiring teamwork, skill –and a little luck. I have to make special mention of the multiplayer maps, with some, such as the Overpass level, providing superb visuals.
The artistry of Gears’ “destroyed beauty” in its environmental design has simply never looked better. In short, while gamers wait for the likes of Battlefield 3, and Skyrim, Gears of War 3 is a frantically entertaining title for adult gamers to enjoy.
6 October 2011 GAZETTE 17
OPINION A candidate’s Presidential vision
‘It’s about all of us working together’ I AM running for President of Ireland because I want to do for jobs and enterprise what President Mary McAleese did for peace. Fourteen years ago, Mary McAleese chose building bridges as her central theme and she used her background, work history and life experience to help to build and consolidate peace on our island, despite there being no political or constitutional role for President McAleese to do this. I have a background in farming and agriculture, youth and community work, public service, enterprise and entrepreneurship. I have worked hard to overcome many challenges, including unemployment and a visual impairment. Yet, I have always focused on what I can do and what I am good at. When I travel around the country, as I have done for the past few years, mentoring, advising and supporting groups of young people, those unemployed, business
Sean Gallagher
networks, entrepreneurs, community, voluntary and advocacy groups, my message is always the same: We all must put our strengths to work to achieve our goals. When I decided, to run for the Presidency, it was because, after years of challenging others to be leaders in their own communities, I felt I had to stand forward myself. After I launched my website, www.seangallagher.com in July and I embarked on a listening tour of the country. I wanted to hear from people in community groups, in businesses, in shopping
centres and at festivals what they wanted to see in their next President. It has been a wonderful journey. I have visited 22 counties, over 60 locations and travelled almost 20,000kms. Those I met have told me of their greatest concerns and that has been for their jobs and for their families. They have told me that they want a President who will believe in them and in the future of our country. I heard that people want a President who is beyond politics, who is truly independent and who will be the voice and face of Ireland – not just now, but the Ireland we want to see in the future. As President, I want to focus on what we do well. I want to highlight and celebrate the work done by enterprise groups, business networks, Chambers of Commerce, those supporting unemployed people and entrepreneurs. I want the excellent work that is being done to inspire others to create jobs in their local towns
and villages. These jobs provide the glue that holds the community together – it provides money to keep the school open, the services running and the sports team on the field. Abroad, I want to use my enterprise background to lead trade missions to help open new markets for Irish businesses, attract tourists and bring foreign investment to Ireland. All of this has the potential to increase jobs at home. I believe that, as a country, we must focus on what we do well, including food production, tourism and new innovative industries such as technology and pharmaceuticals. We need to tell the world the story of our success and stop wallowing in our failures. That is why I want to put enterprise at the heart of the next Presidency. While this focus on enterprise and job creation is important, it is even more essential for what it can do for our local communities. As our economy has suffered,
so have our communities. Yet, what I have seen on my listening tour is a fantastic reliance and a giving spirit as people have more time to offer. Just last week, I was at a World Suicide Prevention Day with Pieta House, and I was heartened by the work and energy of the volunteers who were coming together to support those in real distress. These are the real heroes in country, who need to be commended and celebrated as they can inspire such great work in others. I am not a politician and I do not have the war chest or resources of a political party behind me. That is why I value those volunteers who are coming forward to work on our campaign, to canvass and fundraise. This campaign is not about me, it is about all of us working together to secure the Presidency for the people.
Sean Gallagher Presidential Candidate
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18 GAZETTE 6 October 2011
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS
Supported by AIB
HEATING: TOP TIPS FOR KEEPING THE FAMILY WARM THIS WINTER ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS
DROPPING THE MORTGAGE GUARANTOR Q – Seven years ago, my mother, who is now 76, guaranteed my mortgage – I was a little shy of the required income level then but the bank insisted she be put on the mortgage. Even with a recent salary reduction, I am nearly at the level where my own income now is sufficient for the mortgage while I also have
The team at Topaz Local Fuels is ready for a busy winter
savings that could reduce my mortgage to even more acceptable levels. I now want to take my mother off the loan while my mortgage is also on a fixed interest rate with my bank. What’s the best way to proceed with this ? Jenny – Malahide A - Hindsight is a wonderful thing – accepting a 69-year-old mother to guarantee a daughter’s 30+ year home loan should never have been allowed in the first place. You have a number of steps to take : Make an appointment to meet your lender ( the sooner the better ) Bring your P60 from 2010, your last 3 pay slips and ideally an up-to-date status employment note from your employer First you should request that, based on your current income and job security, your mortgage be placed solely in your name and that Your mother’s name be deleted from the mortgage deed – with the repayment and loan amount to remain the same If they deem your income insufficient to warrant the request ( and parameters are changing all the time ), ask them what level of borrowing would satisfy them based on your current income that would allow your mother’s guarantee to be waived ? If you have savings, offer to either pay off the amount to the level they desire – the bank should be delighted with the lump sum - or if they are going to charge a fee for breaking the fixed rate, then place that amount in a deposit account with the bank when they can attach a lien as security for the mortgage until the fixed rate matures and it can be repaid against the mortgage at that stage. In the interim, ensure you are receiving top deposit rates with that bank. If you are allowed to repay without penalty, it will also reduce your monthly mortgage pro rata. Better for your cash flow. You will need to brief your solicitor to make the necessary legal changes.
Contact John Lowe 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
IF YOU’VE felt the chill that has crept into the autumn air over the last few days, you know that winter is well and truly on its way. There are even predictions that there will be a cold snap as early as October, this year. Last year, many people did not realise that their oil tanks were so low and the increased demand during the cold snaps put pressure on oil companies, meaning many people had to endure the harsh cold while they waited days or even weeks for their delivery. With this in mind, the message from
fuel distributors nationwide is strong and simple. Prepare and order early. With Christmas edging ever closer on the horizon, getting the expense of home heating out of the way now will ensure you are in a much better financial position come the festive season, not to mention the reassurance it brings that you and your family won’t be experiencing a truly cold wintry night. First things first, get your boiler serviced. An efficient boiler will save you considerable money over the winter months. Next,
Don’t be left out in the cold this winter make sure that draughts are eliminated. Often, we waste more heat than we enjoy. Finally, set your thermostat to a pleasant background level, somewhere between 18 – 20 degrees. Reducing temperature by 1 degree can decrease fuel usage by 10%. Also, set your timer so you can enjoy the benefits of a warm house. You should
be able to rise in the morning to a chill free bathroom and kitchen. And if you are out all day, is there anything more enjoyable than returning to a warm, welcoming home? Last winter, Keith McGouran, the Depot Manager for Topaz Local Fuels, Dublin took the decision not to let any of their customers endure
the freezing temperatures. A lot of learnings were gleaned from last year’s experience and Topaz Local Fuels have pulled out all the stops to ensure their product offering has diversified to cater for the worsening economic and weather climates. Visit www.topazlocalfuels.ie or call 1850 250 650 for more information.
New legislation affecting couples living together NOREEN MULDOON
FROM January 1, 2011, the Civil Partnership and Certain Rights and Obligations of Cohabitants Act 2010 came into effect. There are over 120,000 co-habitants in Ireland who are possibly affected by this Act. This new act allows unmarried couples apply to court for financial relief similar to that allowed under the Judicial Separation and Divorce Act. To qualify the adult individuals must have been living together as a couple for a period of: Two years or more in the case where they are the parents of one or more dependant children Five years or more in any other
case. Under the Act an “ex” may now look to court for an order of maintenance, pension and/or an interest in a property (property adjustment order). They must meet certain criteria. For example, they need to show they have been financially dependant on the other party as a result of the relationship. An application must be brought before the court within two years “save in exceptional circumstances” from the time of the breakdown of the relationship regardless of how the relationship ends. A party can also apply to court to look for a share of a deceased partner's estate, although there
is not an automatic entitlement to this. To stop rights being established a “co-habitant agreement” can be entered into, which can set out any financial arrangements between the parties. If a couple decide to opt out of the provisions of the Act and draft such an agreement, independent legal advice needs to be obtained from a solicitor by both people. Also be aware that, if such an agreement is fundamentally unfair and unjust, a court can set the agreement aside or vary it. In summary, it is important to note that previously unmarried couples had no legal rights to the assets or the estate of their partner; now, however, couples
living together can automatically obtain rights under the Act even if they have not taken steps to register their relationship. Maguire Muldoon Solicitors Clonskeagh Dublin 14 Tel (01) 296 4266 www.maguiremuldoon.ie
G A Z E T T E G R O U P N E W S P A P E R S
13 January 2011 GAZETTE 19
OCT 2011
YOUR
PENSION YOUR GUIDE TO PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE
GETTING THE RIGHT ADVICE: Are pensions still a good option? Page 20
Jedward factor: Roisin Ni Mhorain THE FAMILY on how there BUSINESS: are far worse Providing for role models than the your company’s twins from Lucan future Page Page 2229
Safety first for pensions in 2011 Q SUSAN GIBSON Head of Pensions, Irish Life Retail
FOR most people starting a pension was just something we did when we started working or when we set up our business. It just seemed sensible to start putting money by while we had it, to take account of the years ahead when we wouldn’t have it! Saving for a more secure future
Despite the challenging financial environment we all face, the critical fact remains – saving for our retirement is as important and as sensible as ever. And, for those who put plans in place, the
benefit is immediate. A recent study by Amarach Research showed that people who are saving for their retirement with a pension were twice as confident about their future compared to those who weren’t putting anything by. Know your pension options
It’s important to understand that not all pension plans are the same. There’s actually a range of options to choose from when investing into a pension plan. So you should be able to choose from safer, lower-risk options right the way though to more adventurous ones. Then, as your circumstances change over time, you should be able to switch
between funds easily, whenever you need to. At Irish Life we’ve a wide range of options so we’ve got something to suit all tastes. Put your pension in good hands
More than 1 million people choose Irish Life to help them look after their financial futures. In fact we currently manage pensions and investments of over €31 billion. As Ireland’s leading provider it may not surprise you that we look after the pensions of most of Ireland’s leading companies. However, you may not be aware that seven of the 10 biggest US companies choose Irish Life pensions for their Irish employees.
Get some advice
Getting your pension sorted is one of the most important decisions you can make. With so much at stake, choosing your pension provider, and understanding all the options available, has never been more important. For advice on planning for your retirement, talk to your independent broker, or contact your local Irish Life Financial Adviser to help you plan ahead for a more secure future.
Information is correct August 2011. Pensions are long-term savings plans that can only be taken at retirement. Irish Life Assurance plc is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
Susan Gibson, head of pensions, Irish Life Retail
20 GAZETTE 6 October 2011
YOUR
PENSION
YOUR GUIDE TO PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE
l G ET TI NG T H E R I GH T A DV I CE l
A pension? I’d be better off in the Post Office DAMIAN EVANS
Fingal Financial
OVER the last few months, I have heard a number of discussions relating to the continued use of private pension plans. This is usually related to the falls in fund values, negative sentiment regarding global economies and taxation changes. My advice is that, for most people
funding long-term for retirement, pensions are still the best game in town. Some of the key points to remember are: 1. Security
IT IS important to remember that insurance companies are not banks. The liquidity requirements for insurance companies are much, much more onerous than for the banking sector. An insurance com-
pany must at least match assets and liabilities and, indeed, most insurers exceed this. If you have a Self Administered Fund with a Pensioneer trustee, your assets are held in a ring-fenced trust, so should the Trustee company face difficulties or indeed become insolvent, your assets are protected. 2. Investment Performance
YES, it has been a pretty torrid time for global equity and bond markets. The credit crunch that started in the US has now turned into a European Sovereign Debt Crisis and we have had our own property and banking problems along the way. Advisers can’t pretend to be able to predict the future; however, we can plan a portfolio and guide our clients through the various behaviours of assets so that there are fewer surprises. Investment markets will rise and fall. It is their nature. You can, however, have a lot of influence over how your overall investment portfolio rises and falls comapred with global market benchmarks.
3. Investment strategy
MATCHING your invest-
For most people, pensions are still one of the best options for saving for your retirement
ment portfolio to your investment term, and taking into account your attitude to risk, should lead to fewer surprises when receiving your fund valuations. There have never been more investment options out there, ranging from 100% capital protected to riskier leveraged investments, and everything in between. 4. Tax Benefits
TAX relief at up to 41% is still available. Ignoring charges and investment performance, to accumulate a fund of €500,000 outside of a pension, it would cost you nearly €850,000. Compare that to saving into a pension
plan where the equivalent cost would be €500,000 and you can access 25% of that tax-free upon maturity. 5. Review – Regularly
INVESTMENT markets change. Attitude to risk changes. In my experience, during the boom years, investors became overly aggressive about their own capacity for risk and many have subsequently come to realise this, to their cost. Experieneced independent professional advice can offer diversification solutions and offer an impartial view to ensure that both the investment growth potential and risk
profile are within specific agreed criteria. Damian Evans is Account Director with Fingal Financial. He can be contacted at 018404012 or damian@fingalfinancial. ie Not all recommendations are necessarily suitable for all investors and Fingal Financial recommend that specific independent advice should always be sought prior to entering any financial contract, based on the particular circumstances of the individual. Past performance is not necessarily a guide to future returns. The value of investments and the income from them can fall as well as rise. Any person acting on the information contained in this article does so entirely at his or her own risk. All estimates, views and opinions included in this article constitute Fingal Financial’s judgment as of the date of the article but may be subject to change without notice.
What, exactly, is QROPS? ON moving abroad, many British expatriates will have left their UK pension rights retained in their existing arrangements. These private pensions remain subject to UK pensions law with the effective requirement to purchase an annuity at a later stage (and in any case no later than attaining 75 years of age without the later prospect of huge tax charges otherwise). Additionally, UK taxation may be suffered on pension payments. Under UK legislation introduced in 2004, effective from April 2006, expatriates or UK residents who have a demonstrable intention to reside outside of the UK may transfer the value of their UK pension rights to a non-UK pension scheme and thus avoid all the normal restrictions imposed on the pension fund if it remained in
the UK. The transfer must be made to a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS for short) that is approved by HMRC. Do I qualify for this scheme?
Cases should be examined on an individual basis but the basic rules are: The pension holder must become non-resident of the UK and remain so for at least five complete UK tax years. The existing UK pension scheme can be in drawdown (i.e. benefit is being paid from the fund directly – an approach now referred to as “unsecured income”) before transferring to a QROPS. However, there are restrictions and, if the permitted lump sum has been taken, no further lump sums are allowed.
Characteristics of QROPS
QROPS are established so that the underlying investments are not subject to tax and, with careful planning, the pension fund can be continued until retirement date on a tax-free basis. The other principal benefit in transferring a UK Pension to QROPS is that the member can use the pension fund for his lifetime and any remaining balance can be passed on to their heirs upon the member’s death. What do I do next?
If you have worked in the UK and left your pension behind, please contact Imperius Asset Management by telephone: 01 437 088 or by email: office@ImperiusAM. com, to find out how to take advantage of the benefits that may be available to you.
6 October 2011 GAZETTE 21
l F I NA N C I AL S E R V I CE S l
Hardiman’s offer real choice and security THE Hardiman name is a tried and trusted one in financial services, where Pat Hardiman has been providing financial advice since 1976. Pat says: “The most important point that we want to make customers aware of is: Reviewing where your pension is invested could make a substantial difference to the value of your retirement fund. “Do you know where your pension is invested? “We will review your attitude to risk and invest
your pension accordingly. Daniel Hardiman, Chartered Accountant and Qualified Financial Advisor, who has recently joined the team has observed various types of investment strategies used by the leading fund managers in his career to date and will ensure the investment funds selected will be suitable to the individual’s age and risk profile. Example
“For example, it is important that when an individual is approaching
retirement, their pension is invested in a low-risk secure fund. “We now have a platform to invest individuals’ pensions in a range of 100% Capital Guaranteed investments. For example, our customers can now invest their pension in the best deposit interest rates on offer in the market and get a guaranteed return of 4.5% AER and not expose themselves to any investment risk. For lowrisk individuals, we have access to invest pensions in banks who have made
the top 50 safest banks in the world. “There are some good reasons why Hardiman’s free reviews should be considered: “The process for our review is quite simple and we do not charge our customers an initial consultation fee. If we can’t improve your existing arrangements, or reduce the charges on your pension, we will make you
aware of this from the start. We will provide our clients with a concise report tailored to your personal circumstances, which will outline our recommendations. “We can arrange house appointments at a time convenient to you. Call 0877662657, e-mail us at info@hardimans.ie or visit our website www. hardimans.ie for further details.”
Finding someone you can trust to help you with your pension needs is extremely important
22 GAZETTE 6 October 2011
YOUR
PENSION
YOUR GUIDE TO PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE
l PL A N N I N G FO R T H E F U T U R E l
Taking care of family firms DO YOU own a family firm and worry about providing for the future? Is your pension fund significantly depleted and/ or property portfolio now floored? “It’s time to act to ensure you get the business disposal tax relief, which may be reduced in next Budget.” Business owners who are over 55 years of age, and over 10 years in business, can currently avail of substantial tax reliefs when selling their business or passing it on to family members. How-
ever, these are under attack. Currently, if a business owner sells his or her business (within guidelines) for up to €750,000, there is no Capital Gains Tax (CGT) payable – but it is likely that the tax benefits will be reduced in the next Budget – possibly down to €500,000. Businesses held by husband and wife could avail of €1.5m. Over the last three years in particular, many people have seen their pension funds significantly eroded and many own-
ers of small family firms despair of ever being able to afford to retire. “But there is a very viable way to enable business owners to retire even if their pensions are substantially diminished,” says Gerry O’Reilly, of Newmarket Partnership. One of Gerry’s clients, who he helped with this problem, is Moneywise. ie – a boutique wealthmanagement family firm. Moneywise was established by Owen Morton in 1986 and, in more recent times, he and his two sons shared owner-
ship with each owning a one-third share. Owen was approaching retirement but, like many people over the past three years, his pension fund has suffered badly. Although the business is sound and profitable, neither of his two sons – Alan and Richard – had the money to buy out his shares from him. “Richard and I were really stressing about this as we wanted to enable Dad to retire when he chose to do so – safe in the knowledge that he would have adequate resources with which to enjoy his retirement. The company had some reserves, but, having a young family, we had no spare cash personally to buy him out. So we spoke to Gerry O’Reilly at Newmarket, who has been advising Moneywise for a number of years now. We had known about the relief – as, in a twin strategy with pension funding, we had advised clients on it ourselves but Gerry really approaches the problem in an innovative way,” says Alan. Future
“Gerry advised us how we could use the company’s current reserves and future cashflow to fund Owen’s retirement. “He said there were several ways to structure this, but bottom line is that Owen ended up with a good fund over time and Richard and I ended up in control of the business. We agreed a value on the shares and are paying him this in regular monthly installments – tax-efficiently, thanks to CGT Retirement Relief. Gerry calls this WIN, WIN, WIN and we agree. “My Dad’s retirement
Owen Morton, of Moneywise.ie, client of Gerry O’Reilly of Newmarket Partnership
issue is significantly eased –WIN. We get to take over the business with little outlay –WIN. The outcome is tax friendly – WIN. Collectively, Richard and I and the Company save the tax my Dad would have paid on PAYE – WIN. In summary, Newmarket saved our family €750,000, which certainly makes for a better quality retirement for Dad. This was not something we ever envisaged a relatively small company could achieve.” Complex
However, Alan warned that it is not as simple a transaction as it sounds. “It’s actually pretty complex,” he says, “and this is why we needed Newmarket’s thorough knowledge of the Taxation Code, as well as good legal advice to guide us through share-
holders’ agreements, and what would happen in the case of default for whatever reason.” Gerry O’Reilly comments: “We used the Capital Gains Tax Retirement Relief for this transaction. This means that people can sell their business without incurring tax up to a maximum value of €750,000 once they are over 55 years of age, have worked for 10 years or more and are a shareholder/director in the business. “This is ideal for small family-owned businesses in particular. In certain circumstances, people have found they have not actually retired but just passed on their shares to the next generation and realised some or all of the value.” However, Gerry warns that this €750k figure
could be reduced to €500k in the next Budget as the Government has to claw back money from wherever it can. This measure will particularly affect business owners who have seen their pension fund substantially reduced in value, or who were relying on a property portfolio, which is now in negative equity.” So the advice to owners of family businesses who want to retire, or want to plan their retirement, is to act now. “Don’t leave it until near the end of the year and Budget time, as you need to allow time for the complexities to be worked through,” Gerry concludes. Gerry O’Reilly can be contacted on 01 429 3600 or by email: gerry.oreilly@ newmarket.ie or log on to www.newmarket.ie for further information.
6 October 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 23
GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs
VOLKSWAGEN ANNOUNCES NEW TIGUAN MODELS:
The new Renault Grand Scenic is a competitive people carrier with an entry price of €26,790
Renault’s space machine The market for family cars that have more than five seats remains as strong as ever. MICHAEL MORONEY reports on the Renault Grand Scenic HEN it comes to our children’s safety takes priority. And, for many families, that means that when you sit down to look at what’s on offer in the MPV market you need to start by considering cars with three rows of seats. No matter what options you examine the Renault Grand Scenic will almost always come into the final running. And that’s why I took the Grand Scenic for a test drive. The Grand Scenic is a family oriented car. It is a big car as it’s longer and wider than most of the
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SPECS: RENAULT GRAND SCENIC 1.5 Top speed: 180 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 14.3 secs Economy: 20 km/litre (5.0l/100km) CO2 emissions: 124g/km Road Tax Band: B (€156) Entry Price: €26,790
competition. I took it with the slightly higher power 110bhp 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine for a recent test drive. It was the TomTom version so it had all of the best features, especially the TomTom satellite navi-
gation system. And the car was fitted with Renault’s six-speed automatic gearbox that delivers extra driving comfort. The test car was the ultimate in the Grand Scenic range, called the top-of-the-range TomTom model. This car comes with a TomTom satellite navigation system as standard, along with an impressive host of extra goodies. The seating is very flexible and easy to use. The second row of seats consists of individual seats, all of which can slide and fold individually to suit the needs. They can be
folded forward for extra boot space. And, while the third-row seats are not really for adults they are very suitable for children or short runs. You can be sure that with a Euro NCAP five-star rating for the car they will all travel in safety, with proper seat belts and IsoFix fittings for baby seats in the middle row. The third row of seats is easily folded to give a flat boot area. That makes it more spacious than the Opel Zafira or Toyota Verso. Renault is using an easy-to-read digital type layout for the dash infor-
mation, with speed and other features clearly visible for the driver and passengers. Radio controls are on the steering wheel stalk for added safety and there is an iPod connection for those who want their own music. I’m glad to see that Renault still fits a space saver space wheel in all Grand Scenic models, which is the only option in our road conditions. Renault uses a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine in the Grand Scenic where there is an option of either 95bhp or 110bhp without much compromise in performance or economy.
The car has reasonable acceleration at 14.3 seconds in a 0 to 100km/hr dash. It’s not the fastest midrange MPV around but you can hold a steady 120km/hr on the motorway at just over the 2,500rpm figure on the engine. The Renault Grand Scenic has impressive safety features and the seating is comfortable and supported by a good suspension ride. The car is reasonably thrifty, and very spacious while being good to drive with the benefit of the automatic gearbox.
Honda boosts the Accord range with a new Type S HONDA in Ireland has introduced a new 180bhp Type S diesel version of the Accord for 2012. The car aims to be an alternative to the BMW and Audi options with a more powerful engine and improved driving feel and plenty of extras as standard for a list price of €39,465, plus delivery charges. The exterior of the Type S 180PS, with its 18-inch alloy wheels and aero bumpers and side sills, has a sporty look that reflects the power under the bonnet. The car is equipped with a high beam sup-
port system with Bi Xenon headlights and active cornering lights. Standard features include leather seating and electrically adjustable heated front seats. The car has an advanced dual-zone climate control linked to the satellite navigation system to detect the position of the sun and set the temperature accordingly. Cabin noise has also been reduced through a new floating sub-frame structure with insulated carpets, all adding to an enriched driving experience. Type S 180bhp is combined with a six-
speed manual gearbox. Honda claims that the aim of the engine and transmission development was to maintain the high-performance driving experience whilst improving the overall efficiency of the engine and resulting in lower running costs. Power output is at 180bhp at 4,000 rpm while peak torque is 380Nm at between 2,000 and 2,750rpm. That delivers an improved acceleration performance of 8.8 seconds in a 0-100km/ hr race and a top speed of 220km/h. Despite the extra power the CO2 emis-
sions are below Euro 5 levels at 147g/km putting the car into Road Tax Band C with an annual road tax cost of €302.
VOLKSWAGEN’S latest version of the company SUV, the four-door and five-seat Tiguan is now available in the Irish market, with prices starting from €27,995. The Volkswagen Tiguan features a new look dominated by horizontal lines on the front grille, bringing the model into line with other new Volkswagen models. The Tiguan once again bears a strong resemblance to the bigger Touareg. At the rear, new two-part light clusters give the Tiguan a distinctive appearance. Again, similar to those of the Touareg, they form an ‘L’ shape, while the lower border of the lights also follows a horizontal geometry. Volkswagen offers three trim levels, Trend and Fun, Track and Field and Sport and Style. All will be available with Blue Motion technology diesel engines ranging from 2.0-litre 110hp, 2.0-litre 140hp and 2.0 litre 140hp BMT 4Motion. They all feature Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems to enhance fuel economy and reduce emissions.
WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements
The new Type S boasts lots of features
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240
24 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 October 2011
GazetteTTRAVEL What’sOn
Tourism Ireland’s Brian Harte and Mark Henry celebrate reaching a half-million Facebook fans
Land of a thousand welcomes reaches 500,000 Facebook fans TOURISM Ireland has reached a half-million fans on Facebook, making it the third most popular tourism board in the world on the popular social networking site, after Australia and the UK. Social media played an important role in increasing the impact of high-profile TV programmes featuring Ireland this year, including BBC’s Terry Wogan’s Ireland and Monty Halls’ Great Irish Escape; as viewers were tweeting while they watched, Tourism Ireland communicated with them, highlighting some of the great places to visit that featured in the programmes. Mark Henry, Tourism Ireland’s Central Marketing Director, said: “For Tourism Ireland, effective use of social media is about building online communities and starting conversations that allow word of mouth about Ireland as a holiday destination to reach a truly global audience. “When you consider that each of our fans has in turn an average of 130 friends, this fan base for Ireland means that we can potentially engage with 65 million people world-wide each day,” he said. Tourism Ireland took the top eMarketing award at the Marketing Institute of Ireland’s All-Ireland Marketing (AIM) awards in May, primarily for their social media successes.
Organic beauty brand VOYA arrives at The Ice House THE Chill Spa at The Ice House in Co. Mayo drew a host of familiar local faces to the official launch of VOYA last week. Almost 100 people attended the event, with general manager Claire O’Sullivan welcoming guests and treating all to a sophisticated soiree. Spa specialists, including Chill Spa’s award-winning thera-
pist Elaine Armstrong, showcased the new VOYA products and treatments and treated guests to complimentary mini treatments, including mini-manicures, hand, arm and head massages. VOYA expert Michelle Roche was on hand to demonstrate the amazing VOYA Seaweed wraps. For full details on all treatments and offers please see www.theicehouse.ie or phone Chill Spa at 096-23500.
Edited by Mimi Murray
BREAKAWAY: TAKE A SHORT TRAIN RIDE THIS AUTUMN
Rail-ax in style - head north EAVE t h e c a r at home this autumn and enjoy a relaxing break in Northern Ireland from only £75pps* and avail of 1st Plus rail travel on the Enterprise. That is the message from the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) following the launch of a selection of short breaks that include breakfast and NIR Travel. People can sit back and relax on the Enterprise from Dublin Connolly to Belfast Central Station, enjoy accommodation in a selection of 3, 4 and 5-star hotels across Northern Ireland and three days unlimited Metro, Ulsterbus and NI Railways travel. “The launch of the
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rail breaks from only £75pps* not only represent an affordable way for visitors to enjoy a short break in Northern Ireland, but also provide a relaxing way to get there given that rail travel is included. “Travelling 1st Plus on the Enterprise is a fantastic way to start a short break as you can really relax in style and even enjoy a nice meal and a glass of wine,” said NITB’s market manager (ROI) Fiona Cunningham. “There’s a great selection of hotels available across Northern Ireland with something to suit everyone, for example visit Belfast for a cosmopolitan city break with a spot of shopping, Portrush and Bushmills if you
Fiona Cunningham, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s market manager, is encouraging people to leave the car at home this autumn
would like to explore the breathtaking Co Antrim coast; Derry to find out more about the historic City Walls or Newcastle to enjoy a short break by the seaside. “With breakfast and three days unlimited NIR travel included in the price, visitors will
be spoilt for choice on where to go and what to do, and they can really take the time to explore more of Northern Ireland at their leisure,” Fiona said. To find out more information on these great value breaks, or for further information on
things to see and do in Northern Ireland, check out the free booking and advice service and callsave 1850 230 230, visit NITB’s Tourist Information Centre in Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 or click on www.discovernorthernireland.com. * Subject to availability
Frightening fun at Westport House HAVE A howl of a Halloween this year at Westport House’s annual Halloween Fest, which runs for the duration of the mid-term break from October 29 to November 6. A total of 5% of all proceeds from the freaky festival will be donated to Childline. Families with monsters will have a hauntingly good time as they experience the thrills ‘n’ chills of the Pirate Adventure Park – they will board the eerie Westport House Express train ride, get into high ‘spirits’ on the swinging ship and swan boats on the lake, have a devilish time on the cannonball run slide, and take an exciting trip on the log flume water ride.
To really bite the Halloween apple, guests will step into the stunning 18th-century Westport House, which will be transformed into a (not too) scary haunted house for the week. The little devils will be mesmerised by the captivating White Witch’s story time, while Scrooge and his friends will paint their faces to ensure they’re looking frighteningly good for the family workshops that are taking place all day. Not only that, but for guests who are there over the October Bank holiday weekend, there will definitely be a treat in store (no tricks, promise) with an explosive Fireworks
Extravaganza and haunting Halloween dance on the front lawn of Westport House. Make sure to dress to impress and look scarily good if you plan on joining in the fun, as you could be in with a chance to win some fantastic prizes in the costume competition – adults too! All of these additional activities are included in the regular Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park ticket prices, other than the fireworks extravaganza, making Halloween Fest and the Fireworks Extravaganza fantastic value for the family. For further information see www.westporthouse.ie
6 October 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 25
GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1
GoingOUT GoingOUT MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 We’ve Only Just Begun
THE enduring beauty of the songs left behind by The Carpenters will be expertly brought to lilfe by talented singer, Kim Dickinson, and her band, in a show set to delight Carpenter fans, with everything from Yesterday Once More, We’ve Only Just Begun, (They Long To Be) Close To You and many, many more for fans to listen out for. The show is at 8pm on Friday, October 7, with tickets priced at €18/€15.
DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 My Way
Johnny English (Rowan Atkinson), MI-7’s greatest spy, has a licence to – well, ineptly stumble through one crisis after another, as he attempts to save the Chinese premier’s life in the face of a deadly conspiracy, with English’s “skills” just one of many obstacles to beat
Just hasn’t a Clouseau This isn’t the sequel that Atkinson fans have Bean waiting for, as the bumbling spy genre has been better done in other films Q KATE CROWLEY
READERS may recall that, a few weeks ago, I reviewed Tinker, tailor, Soldier, Spy - the masterful tale of the spy game played out in the 1970s by icily-cold spymasters. Well, the 1970s – just like a few weeks back – was aaaaages ago, and the spy game’s moved on a lot since then. Right along to Johnny English, it would seem – or so the filmmakers would have you believe. A curious sequel to the 2003 film that started this series (not that I’m entirely convinced that a two-film series is really a series, any more than someone riding a bicycle expects to see any further developments or wheels appearing at the back), this sees Rowan Atkinson returning to the role of a deadly, if incompetent, British spy. After all, it’s not like we haven’t seen spy spoof tales before, right, dear readers? (Let’s ignore everyone who starts shouting out that spy spoofs have been a lazy cinematic cliche since the likes of television’s Get Smart show – from 1965 – or even
FILM OF THE WEEK: Johnny English Reborn ++ (PG) 101 mins Director: Oliver Parker Starring: Rowan Atkinson, Rosamund Pike, Dominic West, Gillian Anderson
OUR VERDICT: PERHAPS best described as a sequel that nobody was looking for, Johnny English returns with a mildly amusing – yet highly derivative – spy spoof tale. Deadly villains? Check. Ingenious gadgets? Check. Explosions? Check. Audience interest? Err ... It’s difficult to see how English can return after this adventure, which, much like English, stumbles along, but isn’t quite as entertaining as similar spoofs.
Morecambe and Wise’s The Intelligence Men, from the same year. Hush, Mr Crowley, hush.) Reprising his role as the brilliant but bungling British superagent, Atkinson returns as English – the only man who could take on J***s B**d and win – albeit not without
lots of chaotic messing about. Perhaps in a nod to the slightly long gap between the films, the film sees MI-7’s (see what they did there, folks?) top agent living life away from the agency, having retired to Ye Olde Monastery in deepest, orangest Asia.
There, English can meditate, learn more about who he is – and train in pretty predictable ways, messing up ancient oriental skills as he goes. Oh, English! However, with this new-found affinity with Asian ways, English seems to be MI-7’s best hope of getting to the bottom of an impending catastrophe, as a plot against the Chinese premier’s life is uncovered, with deadly assassins on the loose for nefarious reasons. Semi-retirement can wait, as the agency’s best spy is needed back on the beat, with – shock, horror –a sinister conspiracy at
work within a number of intelligence agencies. With the clock working against him almost as much as his lack of skills, English has to uncover the truth before an allimportant heads-of-state conference, at which the premier’s life is at risk. Now, pay attention, English! It’s very much more of the same for this sequel, with Atkinson mugging, glaring, staring and stumbling his way as the frosty agent who, despite everything – including his own ineptness – manages to get the job done, thanks to his super gadgets, super sidekicks, and a super amount of luck.
GARVAN Gallagher’s commendable exhibition examines the “invisible” status of older citizens, with a diverse range of work examing the status and self-image of our elders. Whether personal texts, short films, or even fashion shoots replacing younger models with more mature citizens, My Way is an excellent, diverse project underlining how valuable our “invisible” citizens are. My Way runs at Driaocht’s ground floor gallery until Saturday, November 5.
PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 When Jolie Met Christie
THIS imaginative production marries the music of the late, great Christie Hennessy with the legendary Al Jolson. As a boy, Hennessy was fascinated with Jolson, and this toe-tapping production reunites the two in Heaven, where a meditation of their lives – and music – can play out in what’s described as “a quirky, funny and sometimes dark meditation on the price of fame”. Catch the show on Friday, October 7, or Saturday, October 8, at 8pm, with tickets priced at €19/€17.
GAZETTE
26 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 October 2011
DUN LAOGHAIREclassifieds BUILDING
DIVORCE SERVICES
PET SERVICES
BRICK, BLOCK AND STONEWORK 20 years experience ,living locally. Garden walls, sheds, brick piers, patio and paving. Decorative internal brick work, Plastering Insurance quotes. Call Dave anytime 0872917647
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DOG TRAINING AND KENNELING Residential training in obedience and behaviour problems for all breeds ie pulling on lead, housetraining, aggression, recall, chewing, jumping up etc., also personal protection training. Over 20 years experience having trained in the UK, USA & Germany. Qualified master dog trainer, veterinarian & dog shelter recommended. Highly trained security dogs for sale. References available, watch our dogs in action and read our many references at www.topdogtraining.com or phone 087 051 4467
HOUSES, PATIO’S, Garden Sheds,Garages, Garden Walls, all brick laying and block laying undertaken FREE quotation call John on 0872332723 AUSTIN & ALLEN LTD. Building and Renovations Roofing, Roof repairs, Velux Windows, Standard Windows. All aspects of building or home renovation. Painting and Decorating service available. Bathrooms Fitted, Walls and Chimneys built and repaired. Carpentry Service and guttering service.Reasonable rates, References and testimonials. Free Estimates. Contact Michael on 086 2561436 austinandallen@ gmail.com
CLASSES/LEARNING SEWING CLASSES/ CURTAIN MAKING Beginners and Improvers Sewing Classes on Curtain and Roman Blind Making and ‘Crafts & Gifts’ starting in November. Half Day Workshops on ‘Getting to Know Your Machine’ and Curtain and Roman Blind Making. We also reline and re-pleat all curtains and offer a Curtain and Roman Blind making service at competitive prices, full selection of Poles and Rails available. Contact us at www.sewgreat.ie or www. pressxpress.ie. Call 01 8227650 or email us info@ pressxpress.ie EDUCATION Graduate of The National College of Art and Design available to teach art to children and adults and portfolio prep for art college contact sheilammelvin@gmail.com
CLEANING LETS TALK CLEANING LTD. YOUR LOCAL FAMILY OWNED IRISH COMPANY BASED IN SHANKILL House & Office Cleaning Specialists. Ironing Services WHOLE HOUSE CLEANING FROM 65 Euro Weekly, fortnightly or once off cleans for Christenings, Communions, Party’s, House moves or any occasion. Key Holders to 95% of all property portfolios. Very competitive rates, free quotation & no obligation. All staff are fully trained and insured References available - VAT compliant. Call Gerry 0868829824 or 012827255 Email: rcautley@eircom. net or gercautley@gmail. com Visit our website: www. letstalkcleaning.com
DVD SERVICES DVD TRANSFERS Cinefilms,Photos and Slides transferred to DVD with Music and Titles added. Camcorder and Videotapes edited and transferred to DVD. Phone 01-2807838 Mobile 087-9132265 Email: alleventsvideo@eircom.net
ELECTRICAN CRYSTAL ELECTRIC For All Electrical Work incl. House Wiring, Immersion Heaters,Time Clocks, Showers, Sockets and Switches, Replacement Fuseboards, Security and Garden Lighting. All work Guaranteed. Fully Insured Member of RECI. Member of National Guild of Master Craftsmen. Free Estimates Grant work undertaken Ph: 01-2981573 Dave: 087-9911016 Russell: 087-6309354
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MORNING EXERCISE CLASS for men 60yrs + Improve your physical wellbeing and State of mind. Maintain your Independence, a social workout. Contact Andrew for more information on 0876500815
HYPNOTHERAPY STOP SMOKING IN ONE SESSION 150 Euro! Abbeycare Hypnotherapy & Counselling 4945439 email: abbeycare@ counsellor.com
GARDENING HALF PRICE SALE Closing down / Re Location sale. Thousands of tree’s / shrubs / roses now 1/2 marked prices while stocks last at Paul Sexton Garden Centre Cornelstown 012896396
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ROOFING FLAT ROOFING SPECIALISTS www.longliferoofing.net life expectancy of 50+ years and it won’t leak registered, insured and approved. Phone Tom Smyth now 0872575525 all areas covered
RECRUITMENT CLEANING STAFF WANTED. 7-9am. Must be able to communicate in English. Dun Laoghaire area. Experience preferred. Please send your CV to HR Allpro Services 11F Ballybane Industrial Estate Tuam Road Co Galway or Email to recruitment@allpro.ie
GARDEN SERVICES
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PLANNING NOTICE
PLANNING NOTICE DUN LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL Permission is sought for i) Amalgamation of cottages 3, 4, 5 & 6 into a single restaurant unit. ii) Insertion of two glass doors into the rear extension of no. 6. iii) Erection of new canopy with retractable fabric pitched roof over the rear garden of no.3, apex height 4.3m above ground floor level, plan coverage 41m2 iv) Paving of the rear gardens of nos. 3 and 4 (60.2m2). v) Erection of screens with stainless steel frames and opaque glass inserts to the rear North West boundary wall of no. 3 and the rear garden party wall between nos. 3 & 4. vi) Erection of movable / removable steel and glass windbreak modules to the front of the cottages on the Pembroke District Pedestrian Walkway to delineate the open air seating areas. vii) Erection of two movable / removable parasols, one to the front of no. 6, one to the front of no. 3. Both apex height 3m above ground level, both plan coverage 8.9m2
viii) Discreet logos and decals on the windbreak modules to the front of the cottages. Retention permission is sought for a) Demolition of modern extension to the rear of no. 4. b) Partial demolition of the modern extension to the rear of no. 6 c) All ducting, coolers, compressors and services located on the roof of the rear extension to no. 5. d) Increase in height of the rear garden party wall between nos. 5 & 6 to 3m. e) Erection of screens and door with stainless steel frames and opaque glass inserts to the rear Southeast boundary wall of no. 6. f) Erection of new canopy with retractable fabric pitched roof over the rear garden of no. 6, apex height 4.3m above ground floor level, plan coverage 60m2 g) Erection of movable / removable parasol, to the front of nos. 4 & 5, apex height 3m above ground level, plan coverage 17.7m2. h) Discreet logos and decals on the opaque glazing in the front windows of all four cottages
i) Discreet logos and decals on the opaque glazing screens and door to the rear Southeast boundary wall of no. 6. j) Dormer style weathering to duct penetrations thru’ rear roof of no. 5. k) Erection of new ground floor flat roofed extension to the rear of no. 4, with new access into the rear extension of no. 6, floor area 19.9m2, height 2.75m above ground floor level. all at 3 to 6 Pembroke Cottages, Ballinteer Road, Dundrum, Dublin 16 for Pintxo Pincho Ltd 3 to 6 Pembroke Cottages are in an Architectural Conservation Area. 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. 13708
DUN LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Permission is sought for the demolition of existing rear extension and outhouses, construction of new single storey extension to rear and side behind garage, conversion of garage to habitable use and construction of new pitched roof over, amendment of windows to side elevation, new rooflights to rear of main roof, amendment of main roof profile to form new gable wall at side, and all ancillary works, at 38 Landscape Park, Churchtown, Dublin 14, by Lorraine Smith and Peter Murphy. 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 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the planning authority.
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6 October 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 27
GazetteSPORT
SEPTEMBER STARS: This month’s Dublin Sport Awards winners announced Page 29
GAA CHARITY: AFRICA AID ORGANISATION TRAVELLING TO ASSIST IN ETHIOPIA
Playing for Life gets backing as official charity sport@gazettegroup.com
GA A stars past and present lined out at Croke Park recently to declare their support for the GAA’s official charity for 2011, the Playing For Life organisation, when it announced the launch of its next project in Ethiopia. Dublin’s Eamonn Fennell, Niall Corcoran and Barney Rock attended the launch along with Limerick’s Gavin O’Mahony
and Kilkenny hurler, Tommy Walsh. Playing for Life has worked in Tanzania, Kenya and Malawi since 2005. The charity’s work focuses on self-development by providing education facilities, skills training and HIV/Aids awareness through sport. Tracy Piggott, founder of Playing for Life, said: “As a team, we are extremely honoured, proud and pleased to have been named as an official GAA
charity. Over the years, we have had tremendous support from the GAA community throughout the country. “On both a national and international level, Playing for Life’s success is a tribute to the support and sponsorship it receives; we are so thankful to the GAA for providing us with a platform this year to ensure that this success continues.” Having been selected as an official GAA Charity
Dublin footballer Eamon Fennell with nine-year-old Behailu O’Chonaill, of Ballyboden St Enda’s, at Croke Park
for 2011, Playing for Life’s Ethiopia Trip will take the opportunity to bring Irish and Ethiopian communities together. While the two countries may seem worlds apart, there is an uncanny similarity – a passion for hurling! In Ethiopia, a similar
game is played with a wooden hurl-like stick and a ball, called Karsa. The Irish GAA players and the Ethiopian Karsa team will challenge each other to what is bound to be a thrilling hurling match on Ethiopian soil. Criostoir O’Cuana
lauded the work undertaken by the Association’s newest official charity and wished it every success in its on-going endeavours. “It’s worth noting the plans that Playing for Life has for the remainder of 2011 are most worthwhile and I hope we can sup-
port them in a tangible way with this excellent work. If you are interested in joining in the charity’s efforts on this charity trip of a life time, log onto www.playingforlife.ie or email info@playingforlife.ie.
28 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 October 2011
GazetteSport Sport
Super sumo stars at Loreto
The foreheads say it all...
Getting ready for the fun day
35th birthday Genesis celebrate anniversary ENESIS hockey club began their 35th anniversary celebrations last Sunday with a family fun day in Loreto Foxrock as players past, present and potentially from the future celebrated in style. The day featured a friendly match featuring players from the club’s early years while a youth mini-tournament took place throughout the afternoon. Off the pitch, there were a series of activities to entertain with face-painting, sumowrestling and volleyball games among them. The event was also attended by Irish Hockey Association marketing manager, Katie O’Neill, with the weather staying dry for the event despite the deluges a day earlier. The Galloping Green, based club was formed in the 1970s from graduates of UCD and Trinity and this week launched their new website at www.genesishockeyclub.ie.
G
Genesis’ ladies team made up of players from through the ages of the club
Training took all manner of forms
Reminiscing and ready to play
6 October 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 29
in association with
ATHLETICS : PLACES STILL AVAILABLE FOR SCHOOLS
2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS SEPTEMBER WINNERS IN ASSOCIATION WITH
STARof theMONTH
DEIRDRE RYAN DUNDRUM South Dublin athlete Ryan secured her berth at the 2012 London Olympics, reaching the A standard in Daegu where she claimed sixth place in the high jump world championships this month, against the best athletes in the sport, and the people she will face when chasing the gold medal in London next year.
TEAMof theMONTH
DUBLIN FOOTBALLERS
THE sons of Dublin football finally achieved their potential on the national stage when they put 16 years of hurt behind them to lift the Sam Maguire trophy at Croke Park in front of a jubilant home support. Stephen Cluxton’s icecold last-minute free to claim the title in front of a jubilant Hill 16 will be one of the most memorable moments of the year in sport.
THE INDIAN summer has been and gone, but the sun is still shining for our star and team of the month for September. In a year such as this, they have achieved two of the highest possible achievements in sport - a place in the London Olympics next year, and the highest honour in the land in Gaelic games. Deirdre Ryan’s success at Daegu was impressive, not only for the fact that she will be going to London next year, but also that she achieved sixth place in the world against the best competitors in the high jump.
Dublin have been on the cusp of Sam Maguire success for several years, and they finally took the honour at Croke Park last month with an epic performance.
Let us know! Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars. Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes, and follow us on Facebook at facebook. com/gazettesportII.
Schoolchildren taking part in the Fingal Athletics League will take part in the finals at Morton Stadium next year
Fingal league ready to run this month sport@gazettegroup.com
The Fingal Athletics League, organised by Fingal County Council’s Sports Office in partnership with Athletics Ireland, is set to start this year on Tuesday, October 11, in Porterstown Park for schools in the Dublin 15 area, and on Tuesday, October 18, in Balheary Park for schools in the north Fingal area. The league has been running for five years, with the number of schools participating increasing every year. Last year, 26 schools took part in the league,
w i t h a p p r ox i m a t e l y 1,000 students participating. Already this year, 30 schools have registered to take part in what will be the biggest league to date. Schools will have four race meets in their respective venue before a Fingal Athletics League Finals Day next May 2012 in Morton Stadium, Santry, which sees both leagues coming together to race at Ireland’s premier athletics facility.
Fun phys-ed Niall McGuirk, Senior Spor ts Development Officer for Fingal
County Council, said: “This programme was aimed at creating a fun environment for children to become physically active. “It is important that at this stage of a child’s sporting development that the emphasis should be on participation and learning fundamental skills, rather than competition and elitism. “I have to give special thanks to Bart Rodgers from Athletics Ireland, who works tirelessly on the project and I’d also like to thank the teachers for getting involved, promoting athletics
and who are all developing a strong sporting ethos in their respective schools.” Schools can enter a maximum of 50 pupils, both boys and girls from third to sixth class, with race distances ranging from 300 to 600 metres, depending on the age group. Race days star t at 11.30am sharp and finish at 1pm. Places are still available for schools to take part in the league, and to register or, for more information, contact Niall McGuirk at niall. mcguirk@fingalcoco.ie or 01-890 6232.
Barking for to see UCD in friendlies Win tickets charity: Dublin ladies walk on
Villarreal finished UCD AFC have announced recently that fourth in last seasons La they will host two friend- Liga and so are qualifiers for next season’s Chamly matches the Belfield DUBLIN at Ladies’ Gaelic Football, in associapions League. As Bowl against Scotland’s tion with our official charity, Irish Guide well as this, theyclubs, have a wide St Dogs, Johnstone FC on all JulyDublin is inviting ladies range of talented 10,teams, and Spain’s Villarreal players and mentors to join in the footballers disposal CFGuide on JulyDogs’ 16. Family Dog Walkatontheir Saturwith Barcelona target St Johnstone finished day, October 8. and former Manchester eighth in the SLP last Dublin LGFA are encouraging clubs to United player, Giuseppe season, and have aguide long dogs sell the official high-viz wrist Rossi, on the top of the tradition in Scottish bands to players and members in order to list. football. Former players raise funds for the charity. For more inforGazetteSpor t and include Sir Alex Ferguson mation, see www.guidedogs.ie UCD are giving lucky and Ally McCoist.
readers the chance to win pairs of tickets to these matches. Simply answer the following question: Where was Villarreal striker Guiseppe Rossi born? Send your answer, together with your name, address and mobile phone number, to sport@ gazettegroup.com, with “UCD Friendlies” in the subject line of the mail.
UCD’s Robbie Benson
30 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 October 2011
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
AUSSIE RULES: SOUTH DUBLIN CLAIM PREMIERSHIP TITLE
Blackrock open with loss in Ulster Bank Division 1A BLACKROCK College’s Ulster Bank Division 1A campaign got off to a nightmare start after city rivals Clontarf came away from Stradbrook with a 30-6 victory, picking off a string of late scores. New Zealander Andy Wood, who previously coached Rock, was back on his old stomping ground in his current guise as Clontarf’s head coach and he saw his side bound to the top of the division. It was a tight first half, with former Cork Con winger Richie Lane kicking the visitors into a 9-3 lead. New Zealander Jamie Chipman made his presence felt in the ‘Tarf second row. Blackrock could only muster a single penalty from out-half Darragh Fitzpatrick, who also kicked their only points of a ‘Tarf-dominated second half.
Summerfest set for next weekend THE 2011 Tesco mobile SARI Summerfest, the largest intercultural soccer tournament in Ireland, is set to take part this year at the Garda and Camogie Sports Grounds, in Phoenix Park on September 10 and 11 from 11am to 5pm each day. The Summerfest will also coinciude with the CONCERN kitefest, where kite flyers from around the world will display their kites and give kite workshops for children. The two-day festival also includes a wide array of entertainment for all the family.
For more information, see www. facebook.com/sarireland.
Castleknock Celtic seeking ladies talent CASTLEKNOCK Celtic FC’s ladies and girls section are recruiting new talent to the cllub for the soccer season starting later this month. If you were born in 1996 or earlier, visit the club’s website at www.castleknockceltic.com, and pass on your name and contact details in the How To Join section provided on the site. The club are also looking to recruit girls born in 2001/2002 to play soccer in the DubliGirls Soccer League.
The victorious South Dublin Swans after victory over Leeside Lions in Laois last weekend
Lions tamed in Laois IRISH AR PREMIERSHIP South Dublin Swans 6-9 (45) Leeside Lions 5-7 (37) sport@gazettegroup.com
THE South Dublin Swans won the Jeep Irish Aussie Rules Premiership following a hard- fought victory against the Corkbased Leeside Lions in Durrow, Co Laois last week. The Terenure-based Swans were the reigning champions, and got to this stage after a close semi-final victory over the Mid-West Magpies. Their grand final opponents, Leeside Lions, had a much-smoother path to the decider, with an easy semi-final win over the
Dublin Demons, and may have been slight favorites on the strength of that performance. The Swans had lost a few players from last year’s team, including ruckman Paul O’Halloran. However, Tom Russell made the position his own in 2011. The Swans also fielded three players who had played in the victorious Ireland 2011 International Cup team that won the title in the Melbourne Cricket Ground in August — full forward, Manus Breathnach, half back James O’Byrne and midfielder, Darren Sheils. The Leeside Lions
Laura makes trip to Aras: Special Olympics star honoured SPECIAL Olympics athlete Laura Rumbell, from Dun Laoghaire, and family members Arthur Rumball, left, and Amanda Mollard, recently attended a reception for the Special Olympics World Summer Games squad in Aras an Uachtarain, with President Mary McAleese and her husband Senator Martin McAleese.
were aiming for their first Premiership title since 2007, and opened the game the better, playing with a moderate wind on their backs, taking the lead, which they held at quarter-time by 15 points to 8. The Swans overturned this deficit in the second quarter, keeping the Lions scoreless and adding three goals to their tally to lead 4.5 (29) to 2.3 (15) at half-time. Much to the fore in the second quarter was Swans’ full forward, Breathnach, who was causing the Lions’ defence a lot of problems. On the resumption
of the third quarter, the Lions came back strongly, with some composed play from Irish captain Cian Quigley and fellow international, Eoin O’Suilleabhain, in the Lions half-back line. At the end of the penultimate quarter, the Lions were right back in the game, being just two points behind. It was now make-orbreak time in the game and some committed performances all over the park helped the Swans to an eight-point victory. On the final siren, it was elation for the Swans’ players and supporters who have now won backto-back premiership
titles. Best on ground in the final was Swans’ ruckman Tom Russell, who outplayed his opponent, former Irish international Brian O’Connell. Speaking after the game, Swans’ Melbourneborn player-manager, David Scott, said it was a keenly contested match throughout, but he felt the Swans deserved their victory and could have won by more if they had their shooting boots on. Tom Russell expressed his delight at winning his first Premiership in his first year playing Aussie Rules, and hoped for many more in the coming years.
6 October 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 31
in association with
FOOTBALL: LOCAL SIDES PROGRESS IN CUP TIES a
CLUB NOTICEBOARD CUALA GOOD luck to our junior hurlers who
Check the club website closer to
play Ballinteer St John’s in the final
the time for details of the times for
of the Dublin B championship next
each group.
Sunday.
Cuala’s young footballersshowed their skills to progress in championship ties. Picture: Colin Behan
Cuala’s young teams show depth of talent DUBLIN MFC ROUND 1 Cuala Skerries Harps
2-6 0-8
sport@gazettegroup.com
GREG Egan’s late fisted goal meant that Cuala’s minors got off to a winning start in their Minor A football championship campaign when they ran out 2-6 to 0-8 winners against Skerries Harps last week. Having decided to play the first half with the aid of a very strong wind in the hope of building up a good lead, they were kept at bay as the teams played out an even period, ending it level at half time with three points each. But the Dalkey side managed to keep their intensity intact and keep the tie very close throughout the game, with scarcely more than one point separating the teams at any given time. With the sides level with five minutes
r e m a i n i n g , C u a l a ’s forward Dan O’Keefe scored a great goal, but Skerries responded instantly with two quick points. With the result still on a knife edge going into the final minute, the visitors to the seaside village were awarded a free on the Skerries 45. The ball was kicked high into the box before being punched into the net by Egan, to the rapturous cheers of the Cuala support. Their next game is against Castleknock in Shankill on Sunday, October 9, with the winners set to be the table-toppers, after Castleknock got the better of Templeogue Synge Street on a 4-11 to 4-5 scoreline in their encounter. Elsewhere, Cuala’s minor Bs lost to a very strong Na Piarsaigh in their championship opener. The club’s U-16 foot-
ballers had a four-point victor y over Castleknock in Shankill to leave them top of the pile with two games to go in the campaign. It means victory in either of their remaining two games will see them prevail and take the title over their rivals at the head of the table. At the same time, on the adjoining pitch, the U-16B footballers played out an enthralling draw against St Vincent’s. The Bs needed a win to give them a realistic chance of winning the league, and the result means that they will now have to await other results to see where they finally finish up in the league. The Under-14As gave a magnificent performance against the AllIreland Feile winners, Ballymun, last Saturday in Thomastown. They ended up on the losing side, but the
scoreline of 6-9 to 1-12 does scant justice to the efforts of a hardworking group of players who did themselves proud in the tie.
Fun day Meanwhile, the club will host its annual family fun day on Sunday, October 9, in Hyde Road, from 1pm to 6pm. The event, supported by Topaz, will see a series of events take place at the club’s home grounds, including fun and games for all ages. There will be a Soak the Coach stand, slides and a carousel, brica-brac stalls, facepainting, golf games, a barbecue, a wheel of fortune, a book stall, as well as a bouncing castle and many other attractions to keep the family entertained. For more details, see the links on the club’s website at www.cualagaa.ie.
If you want to arrive early and
We hope that a big crowd will head
see the future of the club in action
to O’Toole Park for the 4pm throw
the minor footballers’ A team plays
in, after enjoying the Cuala Family
Castleknock in the Dublin A cham-
Fun Day.
pionship at Hyde Road at 11am. The
That Family Fun Day gets under
lads are looking to maintain a 100%
way on Sunday at 1pm and runs
record af ter their win a gainst
until 6pm at Cuala HQ on Hyde Road.
Skerries Harps last weekend. The B
There will be stalls, refreshments,
team are playing against Kilmacud
rides, the ever popular Soak the
Crokes at Silver Park at the same
Coach, and more entertainment
time.
than is probably good for you on a
Congratulations to the junior foot-
quiet Sunday afternoon. We hope
ballers who recorded an impres-
everybody will manage to get along
sive 2-14 to 1-09 victory over Fingal
at least for a short spell on the
Ravens in their opening champion-
day.
ship fixture at Rolestown on Sunday.
This year there will also be our
Well done also to the U-16 hurlers.
very own Puc Fada competition
The A team won their A champion-
for all different age groups taking
ship quarter-final against Kilmacud
place on and around the main pitch.
Crokes by 0-14 to 2-06.
NAOMH OLAF OUR senior footballers had a com-
to 0-1) while our U-11 girls football-
prehensive win over Fingallians (3-17
ers top their group in the cup fol-
t0 0-03) in the IFC relegation play-
lowing a great victory away to St
off in Balgriffin on Saturday.
Brigid’s (1-5 to 3-4).
The club would like to thank the
Impor tant f ix tures this week
mentors and players for their com-
include the senior hurlers in action
mitment and dedication throughout
in the quarter-final of the senior
the year and indeed to all the sup-
hurling championship B on Sunday,
porters who have followed them
October 9 against Ballyboden St
all over the county for league and
Enda’s in O’Toole Park at 1pm.
championship games.
Our minor footballers also play on
Our minor hurlers unfortunately
Sunday where they are up against
were defeated on Sunday morning
St Anne’s in the MFC with an 11am
by Skerries Harps (2-17 to 2-9) in the
throw-in. All support is welcome
MHC.
and appreciated.
El s ew h e r e , o u r U-15 h u r l e r s
A clothes recycling fundraiser will
reached the final of the D Shield
be held in the club over the com-
defeating St Mark’s in the semi-final
ing week. Please leave in the first
(3-10 to 0-08), our U-13 camógs had
dressing room on the left up to and
a fine win over neighbours Kilmacud
including next Sunday only. Bags will
Crokes in the B championship (6-01
be collected on Monday at 8am.
STARS OF ERIN CONGRATULATIONS to the Under-
mid-field into the forwards where
8s who braved the bad weather on
Roisin was on hand to finish to the
Saturday morning to record a fan-
back of the net. Special mention for
tastic win against Round Towers
Ronan Walsh who had a fantastic
in the grounds of Colaiste Brid in
game at full back.
Clondalkin. Great football skills on
The Under-9s game was called off
display. The team’s hand-passing
by St Mark’s. The Under-11s had no
has really improved. Roisin Maguire
fixture.
scored a wonderful team goal, build-
The nursery takes place every
up play started from Cillian Doyle in
Saturday morning in Glencullen from
goal with the ball worked through
11.30am.
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ALL OF YOUR DUN LAOGHAIRE SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31
SWANS RULE: South Dublin side claim national Aussie Rules title in Laois final P30
OCTOBER 6, 2011
SEPTEMBER STARS Sports Awards winners are announced P29
GazetteSPORT
Kilmacud Crokes’ Kevin Nolan was one of the Silverpark players who was nominated in the football All-Star list announced this week
Crokes players get All-Star nods
Kilmacud’s influence on Dublin’s 2011 success reflected in football and hurling nominations released this week dunlaughairesport@gazettegroup.com
KILMACUD Crokes were honoured with five AllStar nominees when Dublin’s fine year for hurling and football was reflected in a bumper 22 names on the two shortlists for the Sky-Blues. Niall Corcoran and Ryan O’Dwyer were named in the first round of nominees last week when they got full-back and half-forward line nominations in the hurling shortlist as part of a group of ten skyblues to get the nod in the small ball awards list. And that was followed by Tuesday’s announcement that Rory O’Carroll, Cian O’Sullivan and Kevin Nolan were all included in the list for the footballers, in which a massive 12 Dublin players were part of the final 45 nominees on the GAA GPA All-Stars shortlist. All have a big claims to be included in the final team but for Nolan – player-of-the-match in the All-Ireland final – it would add an amazing cap to
a rollercoaster couple of years since turning down offers to go into professional sport. In 2008, he was offered an AFL contract at the Adelaide Crows while both Blackburn Rovers and Leicester City had come calling with possible soccer contracts on the table. But he has since won three of the biggest titles in the game that have eased thoughts of what might have been, “There were regrets, I won’t lie. There were regrets that I didn’t go over (to England) and actually try it and there were thoughts a few years ago of actually going back and playing soccer in Ireland,” the 23-year-old said on Monday. “But with everything that’s happened - I won the Sigerson (with DCU), the club, the county all in a few years, so it’s been nice. I’d much rather that than to be playing soccer at the minute. I have no regrets any more.” Just four members of Dublin’s All-Ireland start-
ing football team did not make the nominations list – with Cuala man Mick Fitzsimons and James McCarthy in defence particularly unlucky not to get the nod, along with captain Bryan Cullen and Barry Cahill in the forward division. Super-sub Kevin McManamon has been rewarded for the influence he had in the All-Ireland decider and semi-final, as well as his league displays, with a nomination in the half-forward sector. After the Dubs, beaten All-Ireland finalists, Kerry, come next in terms of representation with nine, followed by Donegal with seven nominees, ahead of Mayo and Kildare with five apiece, league champions Cork with three, Tyrone with two and Wexford and Derry with one each. On the hurling side, it was a remarkable year in which a lengthy wait for the National League and a Walsh cup title were added to by a run to the All-Ireland semi-final and that performance was reflected in the nominations.