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INSIDE: Students show off works at The Drawing Project P8

December 8, 2011

FESTIVE FESTIVAL: Christmas bash set to start at weekend Page 6

Having a ball: At a bowling tournament Hurling: Kilmacud Crokes claim the AHL 1 title with win Page 32

THE LEISUREPLEX Stillorgan was the venue for a bowling tournament for the Special Olympics recently. This was the second year running that it was held and featured teams from Dublin, Wicklow and Kildare bowling.

The occasion was a great opportunity to meet up with friends and raise much-needed funds for Special Olympics Ireland. Enjoying the event are Garda John O’Shea, John Nash and Darerca Delaney.

Picture: Paul McGovern

Full Gallery on Page 9

Football: Cuala miss out on promotion final place Page 31

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

70 jobs created as new SuperValu opens Tanaiste on hand to officially launch a €1.6m premises

Q DAWN LOVE

THE local economy in Dun Laoghaire got a much-needed shot in the arm last week when 70 jobs were created with the opening of a new Supervalu store.

The new €1.6m premises is situated in the Dun

Laoghaire Shopping Centre and was officially opened by local TD and Tanaiste, Eamon Gilmore.

The supermarket is owned by the Centre owners, with initial set-up and operational support being provided by SuperValu and Eddie Kane of the Kane McCarthy group

of SuperValu stores.

Speaking at the official opening, the Tanaiste said: “It is a good news story, not only for the 70 new employees and their families, particularly with Christmas around the corner, but also for the local community.”

Full Story on Page 3

2 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 8 December 2011

JUSTICE: POLICING

EVENT Lidl comes to Stillorgan in style

Councillor disappointed with move LOCAL Dun Laoghaire Councillor Victor Boyhan has called the recent budget allocations for the Justice Sector as “an attack on community policing” and has revealed his disappointment at the Government’s decision to reduce the expenditure allocated to the policing sector.

With 31 garda stations set to close around the country, and a further 10 to reduce its public opening hours, Cllr Boyhan admitted he was extremely disappointed at the Government’s decision to curtail the local Garda services at Kill O’ The Grange and to close the Dalkey Garda Station.

The announcement was made earlier this week by Justice Minister Alan Shatter, who announced the plans prepared by the Commissioner under the Draft Policing Plan for 2012. The plan includes the closure of 31 garda stations nationwide and a reduction in the public

opening hours of 10 garda stations in the Dublin Metropolitan Region.

The plan also recognises the closure of eight other garda stations which, while still listed as garda stations, are already nonoperational and will not re-open.

“I am strongly opposed to the closure and curtailment of local Garda services. Now is the time to support An Garda Siochana, not cut its services,” said Cllr Boyhan.

“It is now incumbent on local politicians to lobby the Government to reverse these cuts,” he added.

During the Budget announcement, Minister Shatter commented that he wished to assure people living in the areas close to, and served by the stations in question, that the Garda Siochana is committed to continuing to provide the most professional and effective policing service possible to them.

James Ryan, Store Manager, John Gamble, Sales Operation Manager and Cathaoirleach Cllr John Bailey. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

Official opening of new store IDL, one of Ireland’s Number 1 discount retailers and “Ireland’s Cheapest Supermarket” according to the National Consumer Agency, opened its latest store in Stillorgan, beside the cinema recently.

Cathaoirleach Cllr John Bailey, along with John Gamble, sales operation manager and James Ryan, store manager, officially cut the ribbon and opened the new store. James Ryan said: “I am really looking forward to

L

welcoming all of the Stillorgan locals to our new store. Lidl are delighted to be opening another store in Dublin just before Christmas. We have a great location in Stillorgan that we hope will be a great asset to the locality. We have so many exciting activities planned for the opening, there really is something for everyone and it promises to be a great local event for all the families and anyone who wants to come and join the fun”.

Claudia Marsh and Anna Dobrikow

Irene Duncan from Stillorgan

Micheal Von Lueder

Ed Nuestro

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BUSINESS SuperValu outlet opens in Dun Laoghaire

Store brings 70 new jobs to local area Q DAWN LOVE

THE local economy in Dun Laoghaire got a much-needed shot in the arm last week when 70 jobs were created with the opening of a new SuperValu store.

The new €1.6m store is situated in the Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre and was officially opened by local TD and Tanaiste, Eamon Gilmore, last Friday.

The supermarket is owned by the centre owners, with initial setup and operational support being provided by SuperValu and Eddie Kane, of the Kane McCarthy group of SuperValu stores.

Speaking at the official opening, the Tanaiste said: “I am delighted to open this new SuperValu store for a number of reasons. It is a good news story, not only for the 70 new employees and their families, particularly with Christmas around the corner, but also for the local community. They

will now have greater choice in where they shop and greater access to Irish produce.

“Dun Laoghaire, like towns throughout the country, has been hit hard by the recession.

However, I believe the opening of this store is a very positive sign that the local business community is fighting back and I warmly welcome that.”

The new store is part of a €25 million expansion programme undertaken by SuperValu and its retail partners this year, which has seen 400 new employees added to its 15,000-strong nationwide workforce in 2011.

Commenting on the announcement, Martin Kelleher, managing director SuperValu, said: “The new store in Dun Laoghaire is a great opportunity for SuperValu to bring our unique offering to this highprofile location. Recent market research in the area showed that 80% of people surveyed will use

SuperValu for their main weekly shop. We are really looking forward to becoming part of the weekly routine here in Dun Laoghaire community and getting to know shoppers in the run-up to Christmas.”

Meanwhile, Geoff Barry, manager SuperValu Dun Laoghaire, said: “Our customers will be able to take advantage of the great fresh food, value for money and excellent customer service that is synonymous with SuperValu. We place a strong emphasis on supporting Irish suppliers and stocking Irishmade produce, with 75% of all goods available in the store either produced or sourced in Ireland.

Additionally, the store will sell only 100% Irish meat and poultry, which has been born, bred and reared in Ireland.”

In 2010, the total purchases of Irish goods and services made by SuperValu, was worth over €1.6billion to the Irish economy.

W

Helpful hints: Keeping your pets safe during the holidays Local TD and Tanaiste, Eamon Gilmore and Martin Kelleher, managing director SuperValu cut the ribbon

SEE PETS PAGES 14-15

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EVENT Brand new facilities are set to be launched

Big changes at The DLR Leisure Services THE DLR Leisure Services at Loughlinstown has been undergoing big changes and is set to launch some of its brand new facilities.

T he g y m and leisure centre, located on Loughlinstown Drive, has recently built a new spinning studio and has

expanded its gym class timetable.

With over 50 weekly classes for the local community to choose from, classes include Bootcamp, TRX, Spinning and Pilates among others.

In the next step of the upgraded leisure centre,

more than 20 pieces of new equipment will be arriving in early January.

These will include a new power cage, cable cross-over and top-ofthe-range resistance machines and are suitable for all ages and levels.

Construction

The construction of the much-anticipated new swimming pool is also underway, with the expected opening date to be November, 2012.

As a pay-as-you-go centre, the Leisure Service is open to anyone

who wants to go along and try the new facilities or one of the many gym classes taught by highly trained instructors.

For help, advice or a push to get started, book in for a fitness assessment on 01 2823344 or visit www.dlrleisureservices.ie.

BLACKROCK: CREATING A SENSE OF CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

ENTERPRISENEWS

50+ Start Your Own Business programme ARE you over 50? Ever thought of starting your own business? This may be the right time and Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Enterprise Board is promoting a training course focussed particularly on specific issues and challenges relating to budding entrepreneurs in this target group.

The training will be held over 10 evenings (1 x per week) in the Enterprise Board’s offices in Nutgrove Enterprise Park, starting on Thursday, January 19th 2011, at 7pm. Topics covered will include The Challenges of Starting a Business, Marketing for 21st century businesses, Finance, Sales and Recession Proofing.

Networking and Mentoring opportunities will form an intrinsic part of the programme and guest speakers will talk about their own experiences of starting a business in the local area. The cost for the 10-week course is €150, which includes all course material.

An information morning giving more detail about this exciting new course, is taking place in Nutgrove Enterprise Park on Thursday, December 8th at 11am. If you are interested coming along, please email georgina@dlrceb.ie Even if you can’t make it on the morning, and have a business idea and are interested in joining the programme, and would like to receive more detail, please contact the Enterprise Board – (01) 494 8400 or georgina@dlrceb.ie.

Fair City actor Tony Tormey and The Frascati Singers were in attendance

Christmas lights make a return after five years Q NATALIE BURKE

FOR the first time in five years, Blackrock Main Street has been lit up with festive lights, thanks to the efforts of the Blackrock Business Network.

Late last month, the Blackrock Business Network, along with members of the local community, turned out to help switch on the lights, and light the 30ft Christmas tree in the centre of the main street.

“It was a great cele-

bration and it was great to see such a big crowd and lots of children there to take part,” said local Fine Gael Councillor, Marie Baker.

“Fair City actor Tony Tormey, came along, h e ’s a r e s i d e n t i n Blackrock, and he gave a lovely speech about trying to get people to be proud of their town and to come out and support the local businesses over the Christmas season.”

The Blackrock Business Network worked with the local business-

es to provide the lighting for the town for the first time in five years, in an effort to create a sense of Christmas spirit among the community and to encourage people to shop local. “ We h ave n ’t h a d Christmas lights on the main street in at least five years because of the cost of buying and operating the lights. But it can be a dark street in the winter and even the smallest amount of lights can help brighten it up, so it’s a huge improvement,” said Cllr.

Baker.

“We have a lovely Christmas tree with l i g h t s a s we l l a n d , thanks to Bank of Ireland and a number of other businesses, they will be covering the costs of the lighting bills.

“We used new LED lights, which don’t use up a lot of power so we’re being sustainable as well.”

The Frascati Singers, who rehearse locally at St Andrew’s Church, were there on the night to help lead the celebra-

tions and sing a number of Christmas songs on the street, while local businesses handed out goodie bags and sweets to the children.

“We are very proud of our lights in Blackrock and we will put them up again next year. We hope to add to the lights year on year and hope to grow the display over time.

“It’s a great way of bringing people together and encouraging them to shop local and get into the festive spirit,” Cllr Baker said.

8 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 5

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ART: EXHIBITION OF WORK

Students show off artistry LAST week, a total of 15 Fine Art students had a chance to show visitors their artistic progress at The Drawing Project on Crofton Street, Dun Laoghaire.

Artists exhibiting their work included Aoife Brady, Niamh Carroll, Simone Corr, Paddy Crowley, Johnny Fitzsimons, Stephanie Golden, Johnny Gore, Sinead Harris, Marie Higgins, Eileen Hurley, Deborah Maughan, Catriona McLoughlin, Siobhan Murphy, Marc O’Connor and Cian O’Ruanaidh.

This group brought forth many creative and original pieces of art, ranging from drawing and painting to sculpture and installations, transforming the gallery into a pictorial wonderland.

Stephanie Golden’s piece, Magnetic Stream, and Marie Higgins’ Fusion, in particular, were remarkable artworks for

their depth, creativity and innovation.

Drogheda-based curator, Sinead Smith, said: “This is a wonderful exhibition and it is a real pleasure to see the students’ high level of achievement. They have created a fascinating range of work that is diverse, imaginative and inspiring.”

Exhibiting student Niamh Carroll said: “The exhibition is a valuable opportunity for students to show their work.

“The students also gain excellent practical experience from the process of designing, preparing, and installing the exhibit.”

This unique exhibition was open for one night only. The students are now back to work in their studios, developing their skills and creative ideas for their graduate exhibition next summer.

See full gallery on Page 8

R1

EVENT Dun Laoghaire’s Christmas bash

The Christmas Festival will be the perfect destination for people of all ages

Over 200,000 expected for inaugural festival Q DAWN LOVE

OVER 200,000 people are expected to descend on Dun Laoghaire for the town’s inaugural Christmas Festival, which gets

underway this weekend with a spectacular fireworks display.

Organised by the Dun Laoghaire Business Association and Dun Laoghaire Rathdown

County Council, the festival is a collaborative effort and expects to attract more than 4,500 visitors for the opening fireworks display on Harbour Plaza, which will

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take place this Saturday, December 10.

From Christmas markets, an ice rink and a live crib to a festival town train, a carousel and family entertainment, organisers are hoping the festival will be the perfect destination for families and people of all ages, offering a magical retail and leisure experience.

For the first time, wooden chalets will line the streets creating a Christmas Market weaving from the Pavilion plaza and recently refurbished Metals area, and continuing along Marine Road to George’s Street, bringing to life a continentalstyle traditional market complete with quirky Christmas gifts, handmade crafts, accessories, decorations and a range of Christmas trees. Food enthusiasts will be able to browse and be treated to a wide range of artisan food, including seasonal stews, gourmet crepes and bratwurst BBQs. Meanwhile, visitors can also take in the Live Crib outside St Michael’s Church and hop on the festive Santa train, which will run every 20 minutes, providing comfortable transport all over the town centre and enable visitors to see all areas of the festival.

The Winter Wonderland at the Metals area, a new civic space which represents a €2.5million

investment by the County Council, will offer an entertaining and energetic experience to people of all ages with a carousel, a mini-rollercoaster and Santa’s workshop, where children can interact and assist the elves who will be busy at work.

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‘Food enthusiasts will be able to browse and be treated to a wide range of artisan food’

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Next door, at New Moran’s Park Plaza facing onto the Harbour, a fullsized, covered ice-skating rink, plus a kiddies’ rink will make for a fun experience where all the family can get involved.

And, of course, a Christmas Festival is not complete without Santa, who will make his grand entrance to Dun Laoghaire on his Harley Davidson, just in time to watch the fireworks display on Harbour Plaza, at 6.15pm on Saturday, December 10.

For more information, details of parking promotions in Dun Laoghaire and admission charges (for the Ice Rinks and Santa Train only) log onto www.dunlaoghaire. ie

8 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 7

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EVENT Graduates hold exhibition at The Drawing Project

Stephanie Golden - Magnetic Stream

Students show off works

Roisin Cunningham and Orlagh Webb. Picture: Geraldine Woods

IFTEEN students from Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology [IADT] held and exhibition recently at The Drawing Project, Unit 3, Harbour SQ. The show was held after they completed their BA and featured work in various mediums.

Family and friends came to support their loved ones and to check out some of the fantastic work on display.

The students can be proud of all their hard work over the years and the exhibition really displayed some fantastic imagination and creativity.

F

Sinead Harris - My

Niamh O’Carroll - Coffee

Kitchen Table

Break No.2

Simone Corr Deborah Maughan -

Onomatopoeia - Tribute

Family Album

for a Sound

Marley and Caleb O’Connor

Maire Higgins

8 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9

EVENT Bowling tournament at the Leisureplex Stillorgan

Chris Mackey, head coach, Eastern Region, getting in some practise

Garda John O’Shea meeting John Nash and Darerca Delaney. Pictures: Paul McGovern

Having a ball at a tournament HE Leisureplex Stillorgan was the venue for a bowling tournament for the Special Olympics recently.

This was the second year running that it was held and featured teams from Dublin,

T

Wicklow and Kildare bowling.

This occasion was a great opportunity to meet up with friends and raise much-needed funds for Special Olympics Ireland.

Some of these athletes have

represented the Eastern Region at Ireland Games 2010 and may go on to represent Ireland at Europeans or World Games.

The event was enjoyed by all and local Community Garda were also in attendance.

Adcruz enjoying the day

The Tallaght Team - Gretta Moran, Tom Moore, Stephen Conway and Luke Woods

Chris Mackey (in white) and community Garda John O’Shea, Blackrock Garda Taking a break to pose for a picture

Station, with a group of volunteers

10 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 8 December 2011

FASHION Test your colouring skills to win a €100 voucher!

Don’t miss out on a special Geox event THIS weekend will see an actionpacked children’s event at Arnotts in Dublin’s city centre.

Captain Geox himself will be in attendance, ready to meet his young fans!

Captain Geox will be encouraging kids to take part in an exciting colouring competition, the winner of which will take home a €100 prize.

There will be face-painting and

watches with every purchase of children’s shoes and clothing on the day.

Printed on this page is an outline of a Geox kid for aspiring young urban artists to colour in and enter into the Geox competition.

On the day of the event, Geox helpers will have copies of the outline to hand out.

The closing date will be this Saturday, December 10, 2011 and

the winner will be notified by telephone or email.

The 1st prize will be a voucher €100 to spend in the Geox Children’s Department in Arnotts’ Department Store on shoes or clothes.

The voucher must be redeemed by the December 24, 2011 and excludes sales or promotion. There will also be 10 runner-up prizes of a Geox watch.

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INITIATIVE FreeYour Business Day clinics THE Science Gallery, on Pearse Street in the city centre, will become an enterprise hub for the day on December 9 for Your Business Day 2011.

A day-long programme of free business seminars, business mentoring clinics and exhibition displays, in addition to expert advice and information, is on offer at the Science Gallery that day, from 9am to 5pm.

The enterprise initiative, which is the brainchild of Dublin City Enterprise Board, is aimed at anyone thinking of setting up a business in Dublin, those already running their own business and anyone considering a move from unemployment into selfemployment in the city.

Enterprise Ireland, Plato, The Small Firms Association and New Communities Partnership are just a few organisations exhibiting on the day.

THEATRE Sister Act comes to the Grand Canal

Get ready to dance your socks off Q LAURA WEBB

GET ready to stand up and dance your socks of with the cast of Broadway’s Sister Act when they take centre stage this Christmas at the Grand Canal Theatre.

The hit film, which starred Whoopi Goldberg, has been transformed into a lively and funny production for theatre-goers and, after a hit run in Britain, is coming to Dublin this December.

The story of disco diva Deloris Van Cartier (played by rising new star Cynthia Erivo) turned nun in hiding has been brilliantly adapted.

The show, produced by

Whoopi Goldberg and Stage Entertainment, has played to over a million people at the London Palladium during its West End run and is currently a huge hit on Broadway.

Playing Mother Superior, who helps to keep Deloris in hiding at the nunnery after she witnesses a murder, is Denise Black. Best known for her role as siren hairdresser, Denise Osbourne, in Coronation Street, Denise is having a ball at the show.

“The film is fantastic, but I have to see we do it proud, and I think we do it even better,” she laughs.

“What people might not expect is that for the musical it has all new

songs. The music is written by Alan Menken [eight-time Oscar winner], he is Mr Broadway, he has won loads of Tony Awards, the lyrics are absolutely brilliant and the songs are a mixed bag, with ones that just get up and dancing in your seats, very funny songs and wonderful dancing – it’s just brilliant.”

The cast have been touring Britain for the past number of weeks and are well in tune with their characters at this stage: “Dublin is our fifth city, so we are well rehearsed,” says Denise.

Denise is relishing her role as Sr Clarence, saying: “The Broadway director

A scene from Sister Act

reworked the book very much to the better, better plot driven and also - for my pleasure - built up the Mother Superior part. I have brilliant songs to sing and wonderful funny one-liners. I really enjoy playing this character.

I have always enjoyed making people laugh and it’s even better now I get to sing and dance.”

A lady of many hats, Denise performs across Britain with her band, The

Loose Screw, and says she will be bringing her guitarist and co-writer with her to Dublin.

“For the first week in Dublin he will be playing in the pit. We have 12 musicians in the pit, all the horns, trombones, trumpets, saxophones, guitars, bassists – I just love that.

They make a huge noise, it adds so much to the show.

“I absolutely love Dublin you have the best audi-

ences, and I am so looking forward to spending Christmas and the New Year here. I am importing my entire family over from England for it. My husband loves the show and I know Dublin will too,” Denise said.

Sister Act is at the Grand Canal Theatre from December 20 until January 7. Tickets from €20 are on sale now, for more see www.grandcanaltheatre.ie

8 December 2011 GAZETTE 13

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GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: HOLIDAY FOOD AND DECORATIONS CAN BE DANGEROUS TO ALL ANIMALS

Keeping your pets during Christmas

Keep your pet safe and happy during the holiday period

THE CHRISTMAS countdown commenced last weekend when poor hubby was sent to the attic crawl space to retrieve tangled giant sparkly, glittery fairy lights.

And yep, I’m listening to Christmas FM as I write and I wish I had a mug of marshmallow laden, hot chocolate sitting on my desk also.

You got it, I love Christmas. So, if, like me you’re busy decking the halls for the run-up to festivities-and let’s face it we need all the glad tidings we can get nowadays-

Then read on, because I’m going to give you a few helpful tips for making sure your pets also benefit from Santa’s visit by staying safe and happy during the holiday period.

Warning Signs

Keep an eye on the Christmas tree; dogs don’t differentiate, so a tree in your living room looks the same as a tree in the park. Familiarise him first.

If you have a real tree, sweep up fallen needles as these can get stuck in your pet’s paws or throat.

If possible, fence off the

tree from your pet.

Presents

Dogs love colourful boxes, so don’t put gifts of food or treats under the tree until it’s time to open them. Pets can’t read gift tags but they can smell a box of chocolates, (highly toxic to them), at 20 paces and may decide to open that interesting, treat and have their own, private, but potentially, deadly party.

Decorations

Christmas decorations: We all enjoy looking at beautiful lights and

adorning trees, fire places, and so do our pets; Only they see them as chew toys. Stray cables and wires may be tempting for your pet to nibble on also.

To remove the risk of electrocution, ensure all cables are out of reach of pets.

Cats love knocking baubles from the tree so try to use unbreakable decorations. Tinsel, ribbon, cling film and tinfoil should be avoided, or at least confined to the higher branches.

Toxic treats

It can be tough and

8 December 2011 GAZETTE 15

safe time you’ll need eyes in the back of your head when it comes to guarding the leftovers. Don’t leave the turkey or ham on top of the worktops; instead put them into the fridge.

Many a pet parent has spent a fortune on a vet’s out-of -hours emergency visits to their home following the dog’s midnight feast of turkey bones.

Pets can choke and/ or experience internal damage from snacking on bones, even cooked ones can prove fatal.

Pets and guests

When you have guests, secure your pet in a safe place. The more people you add to the equation, the more you place your pet in danger.

Small breeds like Yorkies are often accidentally stood on; especially if you get distracted by company and lose track of your pet’s whereabouts.

When it comes to visiting my home, I make sure my guests know my house rules.

My pets are not to be treated as novelty toys and are kept out of harm’s way-no exceptions!

Never leave cups/glasses where pets can drink from them, especially if they contain alcohol.

Toys Don’t forget about the little toys you get in Christmas crackers!

They’re choking hazards, mistletoe causes vomiting, laboured breathing, shock, and even death from cardiovascular collapse if ingested. Seek immediate veterinary treatment if you think your pet may have ingested parts of any of these plants.

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

www.gazette group.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

16 GAZETTE 8 December 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC INTERVIEW: DUBLIN’S RADIO REVOLUTION

Dee sees key to the super Nova success Q ROB HEIGH

Portmarnock’s Dee Woods is thrilled at the reception Radio Nova has received

PORTMARNOCK native Dee Woods has found out in the last year that everywhere Radio Nova reaches, the people want to rock. The station has been on air for over 12 months now, and their listenership is increasing every week, exceeding their own expectations and bringing a new and under-represented niche to Irish radio.

Dee covers the evening slot and Radio Nova has become her permanent home after having cut her teeth in stations around the city.

“I did journalism at DIT, and always had loved music. It was always around the house; my parents were into Sinatra and classical music, and my sisters were into everything from U2 to Michael Jackson. But I never really thought it could pay the bills. In my last year, we had a radio course, and I caught the bug — radio was where I wanted to be.”

From East Coast Radio in Bray to 98FM, Dee has had quite a progression through the ranks, eventually ending up on a Friday night talk and music show, Friday Night Live,

which was where she found her voice.

“I had great experience in the newsrooms, but I found that I was most comfortable when I was in music presentation.”

After returning from a year in Australia, Dee heard about Radio Nova, and it was an opportunity she jumped at.

“It was great to be somewhere from the beginning and watch it grow — and still growing! — and it’s special to be a part of because we’re playing music people want to hear, that noone else is playing. People are delighted to hear

their kind of music on the radio.

“We’re not tied down to playlists, and there is more room for personality. Music is the key at the end of the day, and we’re playing what people want to hear.”

One of the highlights for Dee was the recent oneyear anniversary party that saw fans and presenters mingle and share their enthusiasm for the station, as well as celebrating the great listenership figures the station has attained since its launch.

“People are really loving what we are doing at the moment, and it was great to talk to people and get their feedback in person. People are sick of bad news, and we are proving a kind of switch-off from their problems, reminding them of better times.

“The music we play has so much more meaning for people, it goes beyond the music and the lyrics.”

Dee is finding that being a part of Nova is also developing her tastes and knowledge of music, especially being in the enviable position of playing a classic album from start to finish every weeknight on Radio Nova.

“Having the opportunity to be able to play a full album, it’s something you don’t get a chance to do anywhere else. It’s a chance to go a bit deeper, Listeners contact us to say they will be going out to buy that record the next day, and appreciating how good it sounds.

“Nova can do that, and, hopefully, we will be growing more and more every year - people keep asking if we are going to go national, but it’s baby steps and keep on going in the direction we’re going.

We have a lot of people listening around the country and the world, and it can only increase.”

8 December 2011 GAZETTE 17

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GazetteMOTORS MOTORS Ford opens in Rathfarnham THIS week marks the opening of Rathfarnham Ford on Whitechurch Road, which sees the return of the blue oval to the Rathfarnham area, and brings with it employment for 20 people. The outlet is being headed up by Aidan Kane, a well-known figure to Ford customers in the locality, with almost 20 years of car retailing under his belt.

Rathfarnham Ford is located on the site of the previous South Dublin Ford Centre on Whitechurch Road. With a modern showroom and dedicated service area, the full-service dealership will cater for new

and used car and commercial vehicle sales, as well as providing a complete service offering and a full range of parts for Ford and other makes.

Rathfarnham Ford is part of the Fort Motor Group, which celebrated 50 years in business in 2009.

“The greater Rathfarnham area has long been a strong one for Ford and I’m sure the local customers will welcome the return of a dealership in their area,” said Paul Molloy, of the Fort Motor Group. “With more than half a century of experience behind us in the Group, these customers can be assured of the

very best of service from the team on Whitechurch Road.”

Alan Nolan, chief executive of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry, said: “It goes without saying that news of a new dealership opening is especially welcome in the current climate, not least for the jobs it promises. I want to wish the team at Rathfarnham Ford every success in the New Year market and beyond.”

The opening coincides with Ford’s Open Event promotion, which offers a range of special packages for customers who order their 2012 Ford within a limited period.

Aidan Kane of Rathfarnham Ford

These include free extended warranty, servicing and roadside assistance for up to 4-years in the case of the Mondeo, C-MAX, S-MAX and Galaxy, or an ultra-low

2.9 per cent APR loan rate for prospective Fiesta and Focus customers.

The 2.9 per cent rate is currently the lowest APR rate of the top four car brands on the Irish

market and is provided

by Ford’s own finance house, FordCredit.

The sale and service teams at Rathfarnham Ford can be contacted at (01) 495 4445.

8 December 2011 GAZETTE 19

Ten new mercs on the way OVER the next four years, Mercedes-Benz is to undertake an ambitious new model development programme, the aim being to broaden its appeal and extend its reach into segments of the market in which it is not currently represented.

A total of 10 completely new models are being introduced, none of which will have any direct predecessor. Mercedes-Benz groups them under five broad headings – compact, mid-sized, full-sized, large-sized and large SUV. In the compact segment, the most significant development will see the introduction of a completely newA-Class - a completely new model which, other than name, will bear no resemblance whatsoever to the outgoing model.

The Mercedes-Benz Concept A-Class Coupe

Described as a “the pulse of a new generation”, it will be built on an entirely new platform with front-wheeldrive and a new range of engines.

The new A-Class is aggressively sporty in its design and interior appointments with features that echo some of

its senior stable-mates in the Mercedes-Benz range. It will go into production in the latter half of 2012 with first models scheduled to arrive here in early 2013.

Derived from the new A-Class will be two additional new models, both constructed on the same

platform. Carrying the model designation BLS, the first of these will be a four-door coupe with body styling inspired by the larger CLS version. The third new model based on the A-Class platform will be a 4-wheel drive premium compact SUV version expected in 2014.

In the mid-size category, two new models are planned, while, in the full-size segment, one new model will be introduced alongside the popular E-Class range.

Three additional models will take their place alongside the S-Class within the large-size segment while one additional model will join the M-Class in the large SUV segment.

Taken as a whole, this new model offensive is seen by Mercedes-Benz as underlining their plan to grow market share and broaden their appeal beyond their traditional customer base. As one insider commented, Mercedes-Benz is “taking the stiffeners out of their collar” by designing cars that will attract a more youthful clientele.

RoadSigns Road Signs

SEAT AND SHAMROCK ROVERS ARE GOING PLACES WITH NEW DEAL: SEAT Ireland and Shamrock Rovers FC have announce that SEAT will be the title sponsor of the club for the 2012 season.

The deal reflects the brand’s global soccer platform and SEAT, who already work with Shamrock Rovers’ midfielder Stephen Rice as a brand ambassador, are delighted to extend its support to the full squad. Woodies DIY will continue its support of the club and will work together with Shamrock Rovers and SEAT to ensure the club’s continued success.

20 GAZETTE 8 December 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY BLACKROCK: DETACHED FOUR-BEDROOM HOME FOR €725,000

Room to extend at Lindenvale home

The features of the Belarmine apartments

STEPASIDE: VARIOUS APARTMENTS ON OFFER

Time for last release at Belarmine Castlethorn Construction is releasing the final apartments at “close-out” prices at Belarmine Hall, Stepaside. This phase comprises one-, two- and three-bed apartments that offer good value for money.

One-bedroom apartments are priced from €119,950, (approx. 452 – 502 sq ft), two-bedroom apartments from €159,000 (636 – 700 sq ft) and three-bedroom apartments from €189,000 to €199,000 (775 – 968 sq ft).

All units are completed and ready for occupation.

Over 650 homes are already occupied in Belarmine, creating a thriving community with a number of on-site facilities. Belarmine Plaza has a retail centre which includes a pharmacy, dry cleaners, a cafe and The Market convenience store with in-house bakery, butcher, fishmonger and off-licence. Giraffe Childcare runs the on-site creche. A new primary school, Gaelscoil Thaobh Na Coille, opened in September 2009. There are approx. ten acres of parkland with mature trees at the front of the development fronting Enniskerry Road.

Located at the foothills of the Dublin mountains Belarmine has easy access to all the major transport links, including the M50 and the N11.

Locally Stepaside has become a well established village with a choice of pubs, restaurants, shops, golf courses and football grounds. Leopardstown racecourse and Dundrum Shopping Centre are also close by.

For more information, contact Geraldine Ruane of Sherry Fitzgerald Ballsbridge on 01 6671888 or email: geraldine.ruane@sherryfitz. ie.

DNG in are bringing No. 5 Lindenvale, a detached family home off Proby Square in the heart of Blackrock, to the market for and asking price of €725,000.

Offering beautifully maintained accommodation of c153 sq m, this home offers a fine location coupled with an exclusive address.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with timber floors and stairs to the first floor.

There is a front-facing reception room and a large, open plan living area and dining room overlooking the front garden with French doors leading to the rear garden.

This area also benefits from solid timber floors and a marble fireplace.

The kitchen and breakfast room features tongue-and-groove timber floors and recessed

lighting, with a selection of floor- and eye-level fitted units, tiled splashback and a door leading to the utility room, which has provisions for a washing machine and dryer.

Upstairs, the property has a spacious landing with hotpress and storage cupboards. Access to the attic is via a pull-down ladder.

There are four double bedrooms, the master of which is en suite, with a power-shower and WC and WHB. Most feature fitted wardrobes. The main bathroom, which was recently upgraded, has a jacuzzi bath with shower connection over, WC and WHB, fully tiled walls and floors and a storage with a vanity unit with recessed lighting and a heated towel rail.

The garden, which surrounds this home, is larger than most others in the

Number 5, Lindenvale is on the market for €725,000

neighbourhood due to its location in the corner of this small enclave, enjoying privacy and seclusion.

The front garden has a long driveway which is bound by sculptured hedging and provides parking for three or more cars. A gated entrance on either side of the property leads to a rear garden which is mostly lawns and

has a raised deck, a paved patio area and a storage shed.

The extra benefit this home has to offer is the scope that comes from its large rear garden. Full planning permission has been granted (Ref: D07B/1020) for an extension of almost 50 sq m to comprise a large kitchen / family area extension

to the rear at ground floor level, a living room extension, along with an extension to the rear double bedroom at first floor level, extending the accommodation to c 198 sq m.

To arrange a viewing of this property, contact Brian Dempsey at DNG on 01 283 2700, or email stillorgan@dng.ie

LUCAN: FOUR-BEDROOM FAMILY HOME WITH GUIDE OF €325,000

Magnificent offer at Mt Andrew

MCDONALD Brothers in Lucan are bringing No. 3 Mount Andrew Close, Lucan, an excellent 4-bedroom family house extending to almost 1,600sq ft in an attractive cul-de-sac location, to the market with a guide price of €325,000 The property, located in a popular residential estate within St. Mary’s Parish, convenient to the N4 and M50 roads, Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, and Lucan Village, has double glazed uPVC windows throughout and an attractive open-plan layout. It benefits from a new boiler system which was recently installed and under-floor heating

Number 3, Mount Andrew Close, Lucan is on the market for €325,000

in its sun room.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with uPVC hall door, stairs and an under-stairs store as well as a tiled floor. The living room features a solid wooden f loor, bay window, a

cast-iron open fireplace, and an open arch to the dining room, which also has a wooden floor and access to the rear of the property.

The kitchen has a tile-effect laminate floor, fitted units, and

timber-panel ceiling with sunken spotlights.

There is a Velux window, a Whirlpool Americanstyle fridge/freezer, and a Belling double oven and gas hob.

The property also benefits from a family room

and a sun room, which features a tiled floor and French doors to the rear.

Up s t a i r s a r e f o u r bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, of which the master bedroom is en suite, with a tiled floor, WC, WHB and a shower cubicle.

The main bathroom has a jacuzzi bath and a Triton electric shower.

Outside, the rear garden has a large decking area, and there is a concrete shed for storage.

Viewing can be arranged by appointment with Barry McDonald of McDonald Brothers Real Estate Alliance at The Mall, Lucan, on 01 6280625.

8 December 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: David Swaine of Property Partners, O’Brien Swaine

Knowledge of the property market Gerry Murphy, CEO, National Transport Authority and Alan Kelly TD, Public Transport Minister

One step closer to integrated ticketing Paul O’Brien and David Swaine, of Property Partners, O’Brien Swaine

PAUL O’Brien and David Swaine have over 19 years experience between them at the highest level in the Dublin property market, and have both successfully managed offices for some of Dublin’s leading auctioneering firms before opening Property Partners, O’Brien Swaine, in 2008.

Talking about the firm’s approach to customers, David says: “Our proven track record, experience and knowledge of the

market will ensure that our clients receive the very highest levels of customer service and care whether buying, selling or letting your property.

“We pride ourselves on offering a professional service to vendors, purchasers, landlords and tenants alike. Our reputation as one of Dublin’s leading estate agents - IAVI (Irish Auctioneers and Valuers Institute) has been earned over many years by our

results.

“We offer an all-round property service which includes residential sales, residential lettings, property management, professional valuations and free and independent mortgage advice.

“If you are considering selling or letting your property, then call an agent who will be entirely focused on your move, allowing you a stress-free transaction.”

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

A: A businessman like my father

Q: What was your first job?

A: Working in my dads garage.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: Not very much Q: When did you start your present job?

A: I started auctioneering in 2002, but I’ve been here with Property Partners since 2008

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: The joy on your owner’s face when you’ve just sold his house and seeing buyers come in to pick up the keys

to their new homes

A: Bruce Springsteen

A: I don’t really, to be honest

Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’?

A: I like to get in early,

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Property Partners, OBrien

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Four or five

Swaine on facebook

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

around 8.30am, and get a lot of those little jobs done before the phone starts ringing

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Rugby and football Q: What sport can you play?

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

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

A: Jedward (hee hee hee) Q: What music/pictures/ movies do you have on your iPod/iPad?

Q: What was your last Tweet/status update?

A: We offered anybody who recommended a friend to us that had a property to rent €50 cash and €100 cash if they have a house to sell

Q: Describe your dream meal?

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

A: Enda Kenny Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: When we were kids we went to Wales in the middle of Hurricane Charlie

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: My honeymoon in South Africa

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Coach to the Leinster Rugby Team

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

A: Relax and spend time with my family

PUBLIC Transport Minister, Alan Kelly, has announced a major step forward to integrated transport ticketing for the people of Dublin.

The National Transport Authority has enlisted the support of over 500 customers to use the system – which will be known as Leap Card – in advance of full public launch.

The customers signed up to take part in the test on a dedicated website, www.integratedticketing. ie earlier in November.

They are currently using their Leap Card to pay for travel on Dublin Bus, Luas, DART and Commuter Rail services.

The Leap Card is going to make paying for travelling around Dublin much easier for commuters, as well as less frequent users of public transport.

Customers will top up their Leap Card with travel credit at shops, Luas stops, or online.

Then, their card can then be used to pay for travel by holding it against an electronic reader. The readers are located on board buses, on Luas platforms, and in DART

and commuter rail stations in Dublin’s short hop zone. The card will be durable and reusable so customers will be able to repeat the cycle of topping up and using as often as they like.

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

The full-scale roll-out will take place on a phased basis

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The full-scale rollout will take place on a phased basis. The first stage is scheduled to take place later this month, once the final phase of customer testing is complete.

It will allow customers to pay-as-you-go on the participating transport operators. Once the system is up and running, additional complementary services will be made available during 2012.

These include the capacity to top up the Leap Card with integrated period tickets, as well as a facility that can automatically top up a user’s card when it starts to run low on travel credit.

22 GAZETTE 8 December 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL WinterTravel Stunning seafood from the culinary capital See what Scotland has to offer for the perfect action-packed winter getaway destination

IF you’re looking for a snowy break that won’t break the bank, then look no further than Scotland. Offering great value and surprises around every corner, Scotland is the perfect destination for an action-packed winter getaway. Thanks to its close proximity to Ireland, Scotland is ideal for a weekend break. For a longer holiday there is an array of surprising winter sports available from snowshoeing in the Western Highlands to whizzing through the Cairngorms in a dog sled.

Here are some of the best things to do in Scotland this winter.

Grab a gondola at Nevis Range

Offering a mix of runs for expert and novice skiers, the breathtaking Nevis Range ski area near Fort William offers something for everyone.

Visitors can grab a gondola up to the north face of Aonach Mor, the eighth highest mountain in Britain where they can enjoy spectacular views of the Highlands.

As well as skiing there is a host of exciting and novel activities, including snowshoeing which involves wearing special snowshoes and trekking through the Scottish wilderness.

Enjoy a husky ride through the Highlands.

Many might think that dog-sledding is something that only takes place in distant winter destinations but the Cairngorm Sled dog Centre is home to 30 sled dogs from all over the world.

For those looking for an adventure in the snow, a visit here is a must.

Visitors can experience the awesome thrill of being led through a Highland landscape by a pack of world-class sled dogs currently in training for European events and mountain expeditions.

The centre allows participants to interact with the dogs before sitting in comfort on a sled-dog buggy and enjoying unrivalled views of the Cairngorms. For something really

unusual visitors can travel at night by floodlight, possibly spotting herds of red deer roaming in the wild.

Eat at Scotland’s highest restaurant

As Scotland’s most renowned ski destination, Cairngorm Mountain ski area offers surprises around every corner. With more than 30km of ski runs, a snowboard park, a sledging park and cross-country ski, it also features acres of alpine scenery that will appeal to avid walkers and families keen on outdoor pursuits.

Visitors can scale the heights of Cairngorm Mountain without too much exertion, as it features Scotland’s only funicular railway. This relaxing traverse up the mountain transports passengers to The Ptarmigan, Britain’s highest restaurant.

From here unprecedented views of the mountains can be enjoyed whilst receiving some Highland hospitality.

Take a magic carpet ride in The Lecht

Sitting high in the eastern Cairngorms some 2,000ft above sea level is the Lecht ski area. Although it is the smallest and most compact of the Scottish ski centres, surprisingly it offers some of the most consistent snow in Scotland. Here you will find five beautiful green-graded runs, including the Magic Carpet, a conveyer-belt style lift which is ideal for stepping out onto the snow for the first time.

Beginners can also try out the unusual sport of snow tubing, which involves sliding down purpose-built slopes on an inflatable tyre tube.

Travelling from Ireland to Scotland:

There are some excellent discounts to be had on ferries from Belfast and flights throughout Ireland, making Scotland even more accessible. Keep your eyes peeled for deals coming your way on www.visitscotland.com/surprise

MIMI MURRAY enjoys a

trip to the south-west

WEST Cork is constantly in the headlines, and for good reason.

It is up there as the culinary capital of Ireland, with several stunning restaurants and bars as well as some amazing scenery.

East Cork is often seen as the poor relation and one of the main towns, Youghal, is one of those places that is definitely in need of a bit of a revival.

The beach is lovely but the town is showing signs of faded grandeur and the building of a Tesco store just outside of it has affected local businesses.

Unfortunately, this is the case country-wide and it is such a shame because some of the classical old buildings and shop fronts are stunning and, with a lick of paint, an instant facelift could be given.

There is plenty to do and see close by and if you cross the border into Waterford, don’t tell the locals. We did, and went on a visit to Lismore Heritage village with its

stunning castle. We also stopped off in Dungarvan, another pretty little town with a lovely marina.

Another option would be the short trip west, further into county Cork to Middleton, and the home of Jameson.

We stayed in Aherne’s in Youghal, a lovely little

with lots of lovely little nooks and crannies. We were given a great table away from a large party celebrating a 70th birthday, which added to the atmosphere of the place, but, not in an intrusive way.

We did not realise the fish fest we were about

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

‘Again, it was one of the freshest pieces of fish and was so delicate and light that I am still dreaming about it’ --------------------------------------------------------

townhouse with a fish restaurant and bar underneath.

The owner said that on a visit to Padstow years ago and seeing what Rick Stein had done with his place, he decided he had to add bedrooms above the restaurant.

Our room had lots of old-world charm and, after a long day sightseeing, we decided to read and take a little nap.

The restaurant itself is very nice and cavernous

to embark on but, being on the coast, you would expect the seafood to be good and we were not disappointed. I started with the tastiest, freshest prawns in a delicious garlic butter whilst my husband had Galway Bay Oysters served naturally with just a squeeze of lemon and Tabasco.

Yum. For my main I went for the Black Sole which, again, was cooked the best way - simply- on the bone with lemon, oil and

Aherne’s in Youghal was

butter. Again, it was one of the freshest pieces of fish and was so delicate and light that I am still dreaming about it.

Brian had a trio of fish, prawns, scallops and monkfish cooked in a moreish sauce made from the scallop roe. Heavenly.

For dessert I had a coffee meringue, which wasn’t to my taste but my husband liked it, and finished off most of that as well as his own rhubarb parfait. The meal was a triumph and I will definitely return to east Cork for Aherne’s fish alone.

Breakfast was also a winner with more fish on the menu. Brian had panfried cod and had to ask the chef for the recipe, it was so good.

I went for scrambled eggs and smoked salmon.

Lots of juice and coffee set us up for the long drive home. See their website at www.ahernes.net

8 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs Lanzarote is proving as popular as ever with Irish holidaymakers

Banish the post-festive January blues with a selection of winter sun destinations FOR those looking to get away from the post-festive gloom in January, Direct Holidays have a selection of winter sun offers, with prices starting at €359.

Proving their enduring popularity with the Irish holidaymakers this year are the destinations of Lanzarote, Egypt and Gran Canaria, each with average temperatures reaching 20 degrees during the winter months.

With year round sunshine, the island of Lanzarote promises clear blue skies and long, wide beaches to relax on. Stay at the two-star Los Hibiscos in Puerto Del Carmen on a self-catering basis for seven nights from €409 based on two sharing, or from €359 for three sharing, departing January 15. Upgrade to the fourstar Hotel San Antonio, in Puerto Del Carmen on a half-board basis for seven nights from €589 per person

the perfect venue for a weekend trip

SUPPORT

LOCAL BUSINESS

SHOP LOCALLY

CALL THE GAZETTE ON The fish restaurant offered fresh ingredients and some of the very best seafood

60 10 240

sharing, departing January 22.

Direct Holidays are also featuring deals in Egypt, where seven nights in the four-star Joleville Maritim, in the popular resort of Naama Bay, is available from €559 per person departing January 5 on a bed and breakfast basis. The three-star St George Resort in Hadaba is available for €539 per person all inclusive, departing January 12.

A seven-night stay in Gran Canaria at the three-star IFA Interclub in the relaxed resort of San Agustin starts from €599 per person on an all inclusive basis, for January 21 departure, or for three sharing from €569.

To book, or for more details on any of the discounts on offer call (01) 514 03 41 or log on to www. directholidays.ie. Offers subject to availability, prices correct at time of issue.

24 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 8 December 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929

The Nutcracker Suite and The Snow Queen THIRTY-SEVEN of Ireland’s most talented young dancers will perform this Season in Celebration of its 15th Anniversary. They will delight and dazzle everyone from the youngest to the most seasoned theatergoers.

Snowflakes, flowers and sweets, Snow Queen, Ice Maidens and Doves all wrapped up in Tchaikovsky’s and Stravinsky’s glorious music scores. Catch the show at 8pm on December 9, and 3pm and 8pm on December 10.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 A Christmas Carol

DIRECTED by Geoffrey O’Keeffe, this is a heartwarming tale of transformation and joy. It is one of the best loved and most quoted stories of the “Man who invented Christmas” English writer Charles Dickens. A Christmas Carol debuted in 1843 and has touched millions of hearts since.

The show opens with the townspeople milling about, singing Christmas carols and enjoying each other’s company. This show runs until December 20 at 7.30pm. Admission:€18/€15 Family of 5:€55

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622

Scheherazade and 1001 Arabian Nights BETRAYED by his former wife, King Shahriyar vows to marry, love and then behead a new bride each night, never to be betrayed again. Having murdered thousands of women, he encounters the beautiful and wise Scheherazade, who pleads to tell a story before her impending execution. For 1001 nights, he postpones her execution enthralled, as he awaits her next tale of love, lust, hilarity or sorrow. Catch the show on Saturday, December 10 at 8pm. Tickets €20/€15 conc/€12 (under 16s)

Lonely Parisian orphan, Hugo (Butterfield) and his new friend, Isabelle (Moretz) are keen to uncover what his late father’s automaton may reveal, once all its parts are restored and replaced – but will it be the write mystery that he’s looking to have answered?

Hugo’ll and see it This film for children has much to offer older viewers, as it’s also almost a loving tribute to the beauty of cinema Q KATE CROWLEY

SPEAKING of horrors – well, I was, in last week’s review, which is a lazy way to link something together, but I’m sure I can rely on my dear and loyal readers (yes, both of you), not to let the cat out of the bag – even a hardened reviewer like, ahem, myself hasn’t quite the stomach for the recently released Happy Feet Two. You see, the thought of seeing even more singin’, dancin’, wisecrackin’ CG penguins is a little upsettin’ to yours truly.

I mean, of course I love penguins, but I couldn’t eat a whole one – or, rather, I just can’t quite stomach this CG sequel to the not-exactly-brilliant earlier film.

And so, splashing away from that okay-ish children’s film, I’m making a beeline straight towards, um, another children’s film instead, which doesn’t smell quite as

FILM OF THE WEEK: Hugo +++/++++ (PG) 125 mins Director: Martin Scorcese Starring: Jude Law, Christopher Lee, Asa Butterfield, Chloe Grace Moretz, Ben Kingsley, Ray Winstone, Frances de la Tour

OUR VERDICT: BASED on a best-selling book, Hugo is a visual delight from a director back on top of his game – despite this being his first children’s film. Perhaps it may be a little too thoughtful for children to fully warm to – Parisian orphan boy versus the appeal of singing chipmunks, anyone? – but it’s also a richly-detailed tribute to the power and emotion of cinema, making it also a film about film ...

fishy. (Ah ha! See what I did there?)

In an interesting career move, Martin Scorcese has made his first children’s film, Hugo, and created it with his typically masterful style.

His train of thought appears to have taken him right back to the very roots of cinema, and to many themes that have endured throughout cinema for the past century.

Hugo (Butterfield) is a lonely orphan, living in a vast Parisian railway station at the start of the 1930s, where he ekes out a living amongst its great

clocks, surrounded by the station’s oddball characters.

(As a random aside, I quietly thrill to any film starring the legendary 287-year-old Christopher Lee, who seems to be about twice the age of Mr Crowley, yet twice as awesome. But I digress.)

Hugo’s clock-winding ways are partly to do with his obsession – an old curio belonged to his late father (Law); one of those curious writing automatons that Le Rich People used to amuse themselves with, once upon a time.

However, the automa-

ton (which Hugo is convinced can reveal some secret of his late father’s) doesn’t work. Alas!

In fact, through Hugo’s, ahem, “liberation” of clockwork parts from around the station (to the chagrin of its shopkeepers and oddball characters), the automaton has been fully restored – all save the final part that’s needed to make it work, and to reveal whatever secret it may “know”: a heart-shaped key.

N ow, y o u d o n ’t suppose that Isabelle (Moretz), the daughter of a fed-up toy shop owner, might be able to help Hugo find this key, do you, and thus reveal what it may, or may not, be programmed to reveal from dear old dad?

Hugo isn’t the kind of routine children’s film that we’re used to, and that’s because it’s almost like two films jostling for attention, which makes me magnaminously

bestow upon it a twograde system, depending on who’s going to see it.

(And good luck to the production boys back at Gazette Towers on working out how to show what I mean.)

As a children’s film, it’s more thoughtful, and not quite as “commercial”, as most children’s films are these days, as it’s definitely more intellectually loaded than most. This can make it a little ... slow, I suspect; undoubtedly entertaining for kids, but not always rivetting.

However, many adults will probably be thrilled at this homage to cinema itself, as Hugo is jammed with all kinds of nods at cinema itself, with the film absolutely packed in visual symbolism that mirror a lot of cinema’s “greatest hits”.

An okay film for kids, Hugo is a visual delight for any cinema fan, making it a film well worth making tracks for.

8 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING When visionaries look to move on ...

SHANE DILLON

AT THE time of going to press, ripples were spreading out across the gaming press at the news surrounding a littleknown (to the greater gaming public) but greatly-respected (to the gaming press and critics) figure, and the news of his reported decision to leave Sony, where he’s been responsible for some outstanding titles.

Fumito Ueda is one of a number of Japanese games figures who has had a big impact – with critics, and devoted fans – despite only leading his team to create a meagre body of work. But what work!

The Japanese games’ developer has overseen a small canon of titles, but such was the unique vision and high quality of his previous games – the legendary PlayStation 2 titles, Ico, and Shadow of the Colossus (both available in a HD-remastered compilation for the PS3,

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‘Quieter’ titles in stores are just as important as all of the triple-A titles that get all the biggest headlines

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as I’ve written about previously) – that his latest, long-delayed project for the PlayStation 3 has kept an awful lot of people around the world maintaining a determined vigil.

However, his delayed current project, The Last Guardian, has missed one release deadline after another, and keeps slipping back in terms of when it may be released – 2012 is still a likely date, but, as fans know with an Euda-san title, that’s not guaranteed.

With his reputation as a focused visionary, and

as something of an auteur, it’s not quite a huge surprise that there would be great speculation about how long he would stay making games for Sony, or, indeed, how long Sony might want to continue that partnership.

After all, where some key titles can come out every year or 18 months, Ueda-san’s games can take three, four or five years to appear, and, while they’ve been lauded by critics, and raved about by some gamers, they’ve not exactly set the sales counters on fire.

Why should the news of a Japanese games’ designer’s purported – yet, at the time of going to press, not fully authenticated – decision to leave Sony matter to Dublin gamers, even if he is, apparently, to continue to bring this latest project to fruition in a freelance capacity?

It matters because, despite all the razzmatazz that surrounds all the major games titles and series on all the plat-

forms, “maverick” designers creating singularly unique titles are just as important, doing much to craft the art, passion and thoughtfulness that gaming can feature at its very best.

Away from all of the fast cars and big guns that dominate much, if not most, of the gaming coverage in almost every mainstream paper, titles such as those that Uedasan has been responsible for have done much to add to the critical kudos of the platform they appear on.

For all of the blockbuster titles that all gaming platforms promote – and should, perfectly understandably – the “quieter” titles that don’t sell anywhere near as many copies at retail, but which impress critics more than the triple-A titles, as well as making a lasting impression on fans, are just as important, and generally bring a memorable quality to their titles that their big-

budget brothers often lack.

For example, I’d struggle to recall and describe a single Call of Duty mission from just two years ago, but I could ramble on for hours about Ryo Hazuki’s wanderings around Yokosuka Harbour in Shenmue, which came out on Sega’s fondly-recalled Dreamcast back in 1999.

Of course, even if Uedasan does leave Sony, I’ve no doubt that his (potential) swansong title will be something really unique for the PS3, and if he remains, but moves to another division, that he’ll continue to strengthen the console’s appeal.

For now, it seems that the speculation will continue to mount as to whether or not The Last Guardian will be a last work of gaming genius from an almost obscure (but highly-influential) gaming guru, or just the next step to something even greater for Sony, and for cool titles.

Get Kinect-ed to this great competition prize HERE at The Gazette Group, we’ve teamed up with XBox to offer readers a great prize.

Following on from the recent launch of Kinect Sports 2 for Kinect for Xbox 360, five lucky readers can be in with a chance to win a copy of the games, Kinect Sports 1 and Kinect Sports 2.

Kinect Sports 2 expands on the Kinect Sports experience, using the Kinect sensor for the XBox 360, and its rare and big park games include six of the most popular and exciting sports: tennis, baseball, darts, golf, football and skiing.

To be in with a chance to win your copies, simply email The Gazette with the answer

to the following question: Which of the following sports can you play on Kinect Sports 2?

A. Darts B. Rugby C. Water Polo Email your answer to competition@gazettegroup.com, with the subject line “Kinect”, before Friday, December 16.

All correct entries will be entered into a draw, and five winners will be selected at random to win one of the prizes, which will be posted out. For more information on Kinect Sports, see www.facebook.com/xboxie.

Five readers can win a copy of Kinect Sports 2, for the XBox 360

While fans and industry figures wait to see what Fumito Ueda may move on to next – if he indeed moves on from Sony – in the meantime, the wait continues for his next PS3 title, The Last Guardian (inset)

GAZETTE

26 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 8 December 2011

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PAINTERS PLANNING NOTICE

PLANNING NOTICE

DUN LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

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Permission is sought from Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council for retention of development for an extension of 19 sq mts including disabled WC\Bathroom facilities to rear of property. 17 Headford Grove, Churchtown Dublin 14 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 in relation to the application may be made on payment of €20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the Planning Authority

I, Darby Carroll intend to apply for planning permission for alterations to previously granted planning application, register reference: D10B/0019 at 16 Westbrook Road,Dundrum, Dublin 16. Alterations including: Alterations to East and West elevations of previously granted ground floor extension (D10B/0019) and reconfiguration of previously granted ground floor extension internal layout. Relocation of previously granted garage (D10B/0019).

Conversion of garage to proposed home studio/occasional guest bedroom with W.C. Alterations to previously granted ancillary site works (D10B/0019) to side/ rear of existing dwelling. THE PLANNING APPLICATION MAY BE INSPECTED OR PURCHASED AT A FEE NOT EXCEEDING THE REASONABLE COST OF MAKING A COPY, AT THE OFFICES O! F THE PLANNING AUTHORITY DURING ITS PUBLIC OPENING HOURS. THE OFFICES ARE AT: The Planning Authority, County Hall, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire. A submission/ observation may be made on payment of a fee of €20.00 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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8 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

GOING FOR GOAL:

Eamonn Coghlan launches Christmas Mile appeal Page 29

GAELIC GAMES: TG4 DOCUMENTARY SHOWS DUBLIN CLUB MEMBERS IN ACTION

Local vocals fire the Choir for charity sessions sport@gazettegroup.com

THE vocal talents of members of several clubs from Gazette country have been gracing the screens of TG4 in recent weeks, and will shortly be available to buy just ahead of Christmas in aid of good causes.

T he Pitch Per fect choir, selected from local GAA clubs and parishes all over Ireland, were followed by the documentary crew

as they came together to realise their dream of performing at Croke Park, singing in front of a crowd of over 82,000 people on the day of the All-Ireland football final on September 3 this year.

The choiristers come from all over the country, and include the local talents of Gemma Moody from Clondalkin’s Round Towers, Oliver Plunketts/Eoghan Ruadh

clubman Terry Bushe, Kilamcud Crokes stalwart Matt Cahill, Sheila Pollock from Lucan Sarsfields, Kieran Kilbride and Eibhlís Organ from Churchtown.

Two mentors, international soprano Niamh Murray and composer and former musical director with R iverdance, Colm O’Foghlu, weeded out their selection of altos, sopranos, basses and tenors and trained the 30 voices

The members of TG4’s Pitch Perfect choir

over an eight-week period and moulded them into a choir representing clubs from all corners of Ireland.

Pitch Per fect also provides an insight into how top county teams

work and train to reach their ultimate footballing stage, Croke Park, with the GAA backdrop being offered by the voices of such notable former GA A playing stars as Coman Goggins

of Dublin.

Filming took place at locations from Maynooth College to the Gaiety Theatre to the National Concert Hall.

The recording of some of the songs from

the programme, Songs of Shelter, are being released next week, and proceeds from the sale of the record will go to the charity, Focus.

For more information, see www.tg4.ie.

28 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 8 December 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

RUGBY: SEAPOINT MISS OUT ON WIN IN DEBUT UBL ENCOUNTER

DSD quintet named in Ireland Euro CC team FIVE DSDAC runners have been named in the Irish Team for the 18th SPAR European Cross Country Championships which takes place in Velenje, Slovenia, on Sunday.

Joe Sweeney has been rewarded with a place on the team following his performance at the Woodies DIY Inter County Cross-Country National Championships, which took place on Sligo racecourse last week.

The strongly-built DSD runner stormed to victory, crossing the line 46 seconds clear of Andrew Ledwith (Fr Murphy’s), who has also been named in the team. Sweeney who finished 21st last year will be looking to emulate Mark Kenneally’s eighth-place finish in Dublin in 2009.

Aoife Culhane, nee Byrne, is in the senior women’s team while Emmett Jennings is in the men’s U-23 line-up.

Siofra Cleirigh Buttner has been named in the Junior Women’s team. The European Youth Olympic medallist won the national cross-country in fine style at the weekend. This will be her first year to compete as a Junior and these championships will serve as an excellent experience building opportunity for the talented athlete.

Her club-mate, Claire McCarty, has also been rewarded with a place on the team after her second place finishing at the national championships.

Old Wesley took the hours when they visited Kilbogget Park for their first UBL match against Seapoint

Wesley win derby tie ULSTER BANK DIVISION 2A Seapoint Old Wesley

17 23

sport@gazettegroup.com

OLD Wesley produced yet another big secondhalf comeback when they score 20 unanswered points at Kilbogget Park to get the better of Seapoint in their first-ever Ulster Bank League encounter.

The newcomers to the division had risen into promotion contention and looked well set to continue that charge when they led 17-3 at the break.

But Wesley, inspired b y s k i p p e r Tr i s t a n Goodbody, stormed back into the game to run up a win which keeps them third in the division and two points

off leaders DLSP. The visitors kicked off into the stiff breeze but did take the lead 10 minutes in when Barry McLaughlin opened the scoring with a well str uck penalty kick, keeping it low and hard into the wind.

Chris O’Brien, taking over kicking duties from Brian Keegan, responded with a similar threepointer to level matters.

Wesley seemed to be forging the initiative up front and were held up from one particular drive from the pack.

But Seapoint hit back five minutes before the break with two tries in as many minutes as Mark O’Connor and Stephen Boucher both crossed the whitewash.

They found the right gear when some inde-

cision in the Wesley defence allowed them cross for the first try.

Just three minutes later the hosts struck again when they struck out wide with O’Connor breaking from his own half.

It left an imposing margin between the sides at the break but within two minutes of the change of ends, Wesley brought play into the opposition 22, allowing the pack to drive over the line for a try by Wesley’s Goodbody.

The visiting pack grew in stature and were causing major problems for Seapoint and in turn keeping play in the opposition half. Stephen Harvey looked to be over for a second try but play was

called back for a forward pass.

A McLaughlin penalty brought the score to 17-13 with 20 minutes remaining. Then ten minutes later, a high kick put the Seapoint defence under pressure bringing play deep into their 22.

David O’Connor showed good hands with a pick up and pass to substitute John Carroll for Wesley’s second

try. McLaughlin again nailed the conversion giving Wesley a 20-17 lead. With 5 minutes to go, McLaughlin struck again with an excellent penalty kick from the half way line achieving a highly skilful five out of five with the boot.

Seapoint did make a late rally bringing play into the Wesley 22 however the defence stood firm before the referee blew for full time.

8 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 29

in association with

SWIMMING: LOCAL CLUB HEADING FOR TEST ABROAD

FastSport Sailing duo start at disadvantage in Perth

Phoenix members Barry Dunne, Isabel Collins, Adam Lynch, Anne McAdam, Bernard O’Sullivan and John Fortune

Phoenix chilling ahead of Riga trip sport@gazettegroup.com

MEMBERS of the Phoenix Swim Club in Clondalkin will be travelling to Riga, Latvia, to swim in the World Winter Swimming Championships in January.

The nine members of the team are in for quite a challenge as they will be swimming in a 25-metre outdoor pool cut into the ice on a frozen lake, and they will take part in the 25m breaststroke and front crawl, 50m breaststroke and front crawl, and a 450-metre endurance swim.

In preparation for this, they are swimming at the

40ft in Sandycove every Sunday morning.

The club, formed in 1999, has over 50 members and they normally train in the Clondalkin Leisure Centre. It boasts several members who hold and have held national record holders in Masters competitions, travelling to Casablanca Morocco, Belgium, Austria, Czech Republic, as well as in national competitions.

Phoenix Swimming Club compete each year in the Leinster Open Sea Races along the coast of Dublin. The two most prestigious races in the summer are the Dublin

City Liffey Swim and the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Swim. Valerie Spollen won the Liffey Swim, while John Fortune, Anne McAdam and Anne Marie Kendrick have won the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Race.

Phoenix has a tradition of going to the sea at least once a week, summer or winter. Hardy swimmers are known to walk across snow or ice to take their weekly plunge, and in January 2012, nine of these swimmers are planning to go to Riga, Latvia and participate in the World Winter Championships.

The competition will take place where the river

and the Baltic Sea meet, where the air temperature can be below -20 degrees.

The pool is cut out of thick ice with a chainsaw.

A motor keeps the water moving in order to stop it from freezing over. The first race involves swimming 25m breaststroke with head up, diving is not permitted nor is tumble turning. The swimmer is permitted to wear a swim cap or, if they wish, a woolly hat and a normal swimsuit. No wetsuits are allowed. After that, swimmers can compete in a 450m swim.

For more information, contact AnneMarie Kendrick on 087 282 1175.

Leaping for to see UCD in friendlies Win tickets charity: Eamon launches Mile

Villarreal finished UCD AFC have announced recently that fourth in last seasons La they will host two friend- Liga and so are qualifiers next season’s Chamly METRO matches St at the Belfield Brigi’d legendfor Eamonn pions Bowl against Scotland’s Coghlan prepares to hurdle a League. As well as this, they have a wide Stfence Johnstone FC on July raceat Leopardstown range 10,course, and Spain’s Villarreal the new venue for this of talented footballers CF on July 16. year’s flagship GOAL Mile. Theat their disposal with Barcelona target St Johnstone finished Mile will be held at Leopardstown and former eighth in the SLP last on Christmas morning from 10am Manchester United player, Giuseppe season, and have a long to 12 noon. More than 100 GOAL Rossi, on tradition in Scottish miles will be held throughout Ire-the top of the list. Visit football.

Former playersperiod. land over the festive GazetteSpor t and include Sir Alex Ferguson www.goal.ie for more details.

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

MALAHIDE’S Scott Flanigan and Booterstown’s Ger Owens’ beginning to their Olympic 470 sailing qualifying campaign got off to a tough start as the pair’s rigging, ropes and spares were lost en route to Perth.

They are currently in Australia aiming to secure a place inside the top 20 nations at the world championships to hand Ireland a berth at the London Olympics.

Flanigan, the youngest member of the Irish team at the competition carried the flag at last Friday’s opening ceremony while Owens is aiming to create a bit of unique history by becoming the first Irish 470 sailor to compete in the three Games.

Rathfarnham’s Annalise Murphy claimed victory in her second race of the laser radial regatta to get off to a superb start. Competition continues for the next week.

Ireland trio make the team of World Cup ’11 LEINSTER ‘S Brian O’Driscoll, Ronan O’Gara and Paul O’Connell were the Ireland players who made the official Rugby World Cup dream team, voted for by international fans of the New Zealand celebration of the sport’s Facebook page.

Ireland captain O’Driscoll took nearly 50% of the votes to make the Dream Team. A

consistent performer for Ireland, O’Driscoll added to his impressive tally of international tries with a well-taken try in the pool match against Italy.

Based on suggestions from the online community, a shortlist of names per position was created each day and put to the vote, with over 160,000 votes being cast along the way.

The other players in the XV were made up of players from the semi-finalists, Wales, New Zealand and France.

30 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 8 December 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Monks top the league after successive wins MONKSTOWN hockey club went top of the Leinster’s men’s division one for the first time since 1983 when they produced back-to-back wins last weekend to ease past Fingal and Monkstown.

It hands the Rathdown club a four-point margin over the chasing pack as none of their title rivals managed a point over the weekend.

On Saturday, they ran up a comprehensive 6-1 defeat of Fingal. Gareth Watkins netted a hat-trick as Fingal struggled to get going. Richard Sykes picked out the top right-corner from an early corner to make it eight goals for the season. David Cole and Kyle Good combined to set up Watkins for his first with a back-post tip-in and he made it 3-0 at half-time after Robbie McFarlane had tangled with Nigel Grothier.

Watkins’ penalty stroke made it four before Eamon Bane’s corner goal got one back for Fingal. But Kyle Good netted a second stroke after Nick Dee was fouled as cards began to be dished out as the game took on a loose hue.

Good added another late on to complete the Rathdown rout.

And the Town moved further clear at the top of division one as they produced a workmanlike, if not overly fluid, performance on Sunday to inflict a seventh defeat of the campaign on Clontarf.

Once again, Gareth Watkins was the man to cut loose after as the Bulls matched the Sky-Blues in a scoreless first half. His deft chip over Stephen Cairns was en route to goal when Lee Cole nudged home the first before the Irish international applied a block-busting finish. Cain Cooney finished off a well-worked move to get Clontarf back into the mix from their best move since a Kevin Mullins’ run in the first half. But Watkins got his fifth goal of the weekend, finishing off Cole and Gavin O’Halloran’s fine build-up work. Watkins returned the favour for O’Halloran to finish off a productive double weekend for the Town and see them in a strong position with one game left in the first half of the season.

SOCCER: UNITED RUE MISSED CHANCES AND DECISIONS IN TIE

TEK United were thwarted at the last by a late header from Kevin Dempsey to claim the tie in Dublin Bus’ favour

TEK thwarted in extra time LSL SUNDAY SENIOR 1 TEK United Dublin Bus

1 2

sport@gazettegroup.com

KEVIN Dempsey’s header four minutes into extra time handed Dublin Bus a last-gasp win to compound a controversial afternoon for ten-man TEK United at Stradbrook last Sunday.

The hosts looked reasonably set at half-time but were left to rue a disallowed David O’Brien goal and his subsequent red card in the 66th minute.

Indeed, they might have been even further inconvenienced when Dean McLaughlin was shown

a second yellow card only for the referee to rescind the card, on advice from his assistant; a case of mistaken identity, with Wayne Mahon picking up the yellow instead.

Played at helter-skelter pace, it was all action, and the win was enough to keep Dublin Bus third and within three points of leaders Malahide United.

The Coldcut side were rocked early on, however, when Stephen McBride’s left-wing throw-in was allowed bounce in the box and Conor Foley calmly stroked the ball home with Sutton stranded.

That lead in the 26th minute came off the back

Sinead is the Player’s Player: Fox honoured DUBLIN Ladies’ Football’s senior Player’s Player of the Year, Sinead Goldrick, from Foxrock Cabinteely was presented with her award by Tommy Brown outgoing Manager of Dublin at the O’Neills Dublin Ladies’ annual awards evening at Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley recently. Sinead was also nominated for an All-Star this year. Picture: GAApics.com

of a lively opening phase with a number of halfchances at each end, with Ciaran Bissett’s scissorkick the best of them.

Former Sunderland man Gary Smith flashed another just wide while Bissett was set free by the innovative Geoff Doyle soon after the goal. He drew the first of two fine saves from Wayne Kelly, coming off his line to smother well.

O’Brien thought he had made it 2-0 when he finished, but was pulled back for offside, the scorer protesting the last touch through to him came from the Bus defender.

But it was as good as

it got for TEK as the tide turned with the change of ends. Geoff Doyle rounded Kelly only to be denied by the covering Mahon who cleared at the very last in the 56th minute.

The leveller came soon after as Graham Doyle slipped a pass down the right channel for Patrick Mahon to thrash into the net at the near post.

The hosts again were aggrieved, believing Bus had taken the initial throw-in from an advanced position but they fell on deaf ears.

With three minutes, O’Brien was shown the line for afters following a free given against him.

It left the aces in Dublin Bus hands and it might have been easier had McLaughlin’s red stood.

But he stayed on and TEK defended heroically for most of the remainder.

The visitors held the vast majority of possession but the best chance fell to the hosts as Foley’s shot was heroically blocked by Geoff Doyle.

But, just when it looked like a draw was on the cards, a series of corners eventually saw the ball bobble around the box with left fullback Dempsey nodding goalwards, making it through a thicket of defenders to spark wild celebrations.

8 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 31

in association with

FOOTBALL: DALKEY’S FINEST MISS OUT ON FINAL a

CLUB NOTICEBOARD CUALA Phones were buzzing all over the

Calendar. Each month of the calen-

weekend as the TV advertisement

dar includes photos of children rep-

featuring 15 of our fine young Acad-

resenting the 2003, 2004, 2005 and

emy boys and girls aired in a variety

2006 years in the club. It also includes

of programmes. From the draw for

photos of the Cuala players who have

the European Championships to the

represented Dublin and has been

Late Late Toy Show, Cuala’s finest

kindly signed by them. At €7, it is an

were showing off to the world in the

ideal Christmas present that will be

ad made for Galway company Hurlog,

treasured in years to come.

and supported by AIB.

you may have spotted something

way in which the club was featured,

new hanging in the bar. It’s a framed

you can view the ad on the Cuala

flag from the 18th hole of the British

website www.cualagaa.ie

Open signed by none other than Dar-

The bar was hopping on Saturday

ren Clarke. The academy are auc-

night for the 70th birthday celebra-

tioning the flag to the highest bidder.

tions of club stalwart, Peter Dunne.

Details on how to make a bid are on

Hard luck to the senior footballers

Cuala were unable to make the move up to AFL 1 with defeat to Fingallians at Lawless Park last weekend

AFL 2 PLAY-OFF S/FINAL Fingallians Cuala

0-11 0-6

sport@gazettegroup.com

CUALA’S dreams of ascending the ladder into AFL1 came to an end in disappointing fashion when they were undone by a highly motivated Fingallians.

Fins were coming off the back of a crushing senior championship loss to St Mark’s, which saw them relegated after more than 30 successive years in the top tier.

And the Dalkey men struggled to match the Swords’ hosts’ intensity at Lawless Park as Sunday morning’s play-off semi-final was played out in perfect conditions for winter football with dry, crisp conditions and only the large local support feeling the five degrees in their bones.

Fins’ captain Donal Farrell won the toss and played up the hill into

a slight breeze in the first half. The decision was a correct one as the Fins’ management got the tactics spot-on, deploying experienced corner forward David Markey in a deep role, stifling the Cuala attack and still being effective on the score sheet from long range.

Dave Killeen was allaction in the first 15 minutes, kicking two points and putting his body on the line with some heavy challenges before going over the top and earning a yellow card.

Meanwhile, Cuala with three Dublin senior hurlers – Paul Schutte very much to the fore – kept the scoreboard ticking with three quick points.

The big difference early on was the Fingallians midfield where Danny Campion was winning ball in the air but also kicking an important score.

Fingallians, playing in white, had a half-back line combination of Ray McMenamin, Gary Donnelly and Donal Keane, all of whom continually turned defence into attack. The half-time score was five points to three in favour of the home team as, after both teams kicking wides, Fins won nearly all the breaking ball from kick outs at both ends.

The half-time team talk gave a kick start to Ciaran McLoughlin as he kicked a point after 30 seconds and contributed with a free and an assist for Louth-

m a n B a r r y C l a r ke .

The Swords’ men were slowly killing off Cuala and, when Cuala did get into scoring positions, Brian Gilsenan at fullback was blocking their every kick.

Donal Clarke put in another great 60 mins before Cuala subbed a battered corner-forward.

Keane, and an unusually quiet Mar tin Hanley, put the nails in the Cuala coffin as Fingallians finished winners 11 – 6. Fingallians will now play O’Tooles in the promotion final this Sunday, December 11 in Swords.

the website.

who fell to Fingallians in the semi-

Parents of the 1998 group will have

final of the play-off for promotion to

now received Garda Vetting Forms

Division One.

for next year’s National Feile na

Also to the minor ladies who found

Gael which will be held in Dublin and

Ballyboden just too strong in the

in which Cuala will be very involved.

Division One league final. Both sides

All parents who will be involved with

can be proud of fine seasons.

teams or who will host teams up

Orders are being taken throughout the club for the Cuala Academy 2012

Cuala denied place in AFL 1 with semi loss

The eagle-eyed golf nuts amongst

For those yet to catch the great

from the country need to complete the forms and send them back.

FOXROCK/CABINTEELY MANY thanks to all who attended

school, St Brigid’s Girls, Cabinteely,

the quiz night in the Grange pub,

who are taking part in the Cumann

Deansgrange.

na mBunscoil Division 1 shield final

Well done to the U-8 boys’ mentors who took second prize.

Thank you to John Gallagher and

in Croke Park this week. It is a big occasion for all the girls and their families.

Ka y Donnelly who supplied the

A big thank you to all those who

majority of the prizes for the raffle

turned out for our annual bag-pack

on the night.

on Saturday in Dunnes Stores, Cor-

Good luck to all the girls who are taking part in trials for the Dublin minors, U-16s and U-14s.

Well done to our feeder primary

nelscourt.

Linda Galla gher and Diarmuid Byrne put in a huge effort to organise this fundraising event.

STARS OF ERIN THE Under-8s pla yed their last

There was no winner of the weekly

game before Christmas against

lotto. Numbers drawn were 1, 8 and

Ger a ldine Mor a n’s in Cor ne ls-

24. The three no jackpot winner

court on Saturday. It was a great

prize draw were 1st: Orla Mahon

game of football with both teams

2nd: Noeleen Kennedy 3rd: Katie

playing very good football. Special

O’Donoghue.

thanks to Moran’s for the challenge

The club are holding the annual

game. The Under-8s and Under-9s

Christmas draw on December 17 in

Christmas party will be on Satur-

the Step Inn.

day, December 10.That date will be

Raffle tickets are now on sale

the last week of nursery before

priced at €10. This is a limited draw

Christmas, and there will be a very

so please purchase your ticket

special guest in attendence, so,

early to avoid disappointment .

hopefully, all children have been

Please see any club official or juve-

very good this year!

nile mentor for tickets.

Follow GazetteSport on Facebook and Twitter and at www.gazettegroup.com

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

SEAPOINT SUNK: Old Wesley second half raid ends good ’Point streak P28

DECEMBER 8, 2011

GOAL XMAS MILE Coghlan leads way for festive race P29

Q dunlaoghairesport@gazettegroup.com

KEVIN O’Loughlin’s 10-point haul brought the AHL1 title to Glenalbyn as Kilmacud Crokes withstood Crumlin’s late charge to add to their recent run of hurling titles with a 0-16 to 2-8 victory.

The intermediate side claimed a league and championship double while the Minor A side took home their championship, all within the past week to make it a famous fortnight for the club.

At O’Toole Park last Sunday, they were well clear for much of the tie but were forced to endure a nervy end when Sean Stafford nabbed a late goal to put the game back in the balance.

But a couple of heroic blocks from the likes of Ross O’Carroll and Adrian Grogan ensured they ended the tie deservedly on top, capping a campaign that saw the side top the regular season.

O’Loughlin’s free-taking was something to behold as he accrued seven frees as well as a ’65 and a sideline cut

in his tally.

He opened his account in putting his side three points clear inside the opening ten minutes after former Dublin U-21 star Conor Clinton and James Burke had already weighed in before Crumlin could get on the board.

Naomhan O’R iordan, though, responded in kind and helped build the lead to four before O’Loughlin and Adam McGreal began a direct battle of wills from frees.

Accuracy It was one the Crokes’ man won by four points to three, with his superb sideline cut the pick of them to make it a five-point game at interval.

O’Loughlin tacked on another just after the break but Crumlin were not about to lie down and McGreal – en route to 0-5 – cleared the bar once more and the big move came when Shane Martin latched onto the sliotar with a deft piece of skill and comprehensively finished.

Kilmacud, though, kept their nerve and momentum to keep the points

Kilmacud Crokes continued their recent run of success with the AHL1 title

rolling along. Clinton and O’Riordan added their second score each.

O’Riordan was forced to take an early shower, along with Crumlin’s Shane Ryan, in the closing ten minutes.

But O’Loughlin continued serenely on his way, clearing the bar at each

turn to move the lead out to five points before Stafford netted Crumlin’s second goal with time virtually up.

It proved to give the endgame a little extra bite but Kilmacud stayed ahead to take home the silverware and continue the gold rush for the Stillorgan flyers.

GazetteSPORT

O’Loughlin ten topples Crumlin