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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

December 15, 2011

INSIDE: A pop-up shop with designs MUSIC BOOST: Amy Winehouse’s on Christmas P10 father helps the children’s hospice P3

Sailing: Murphy makes the Olympic grade in Perth Page 32

Athletics: Sweeney fifth in European championships Page 30

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

Tried to rob shop with a ‘bomb’ A FATHER of four, who tried to rob his local shop with a pretend bomb and threatening a kidnap, has received a three-year suspended sentence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Aaron Wall (33), of St Kevin’s Close, Sallynoggin, entered the shop and, when the shop assistants refused to give him cigarettes for less than the retail price, he called them “communists”, and told them they “shouldn’t be in this

country”.

Gardai later located two boxes wrapped together with sellotape, with blue wiring and a pen sticking out of it.

The “bomb” was not real.

Wall pleaded guilty to attempted robbery at Londis supermarket on Sallynoggin Road, Dun Laoghaire, on January 21, 2011. Judge Patricia Ryan sentenced Wall to three years in prison, suspended for three years.

Full Story on Page 6

It’s a snip: Tanaiste’s cut adds SuperValu to the community WITH a simple snip of his scissors,

Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore’s cut was welcomed by the Dun Laoghaire community, as he officially opened the new SuperValu store at Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre recently.

Joined by Martin Kelleher, MD, SuperValu, the Tanaiste’s move marked the opening of the €1.6 million store at the centre, which has created 70 new jobs in the town.

Full Gallery on Pages 8-9

2 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 15 December 2011

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OLYMPICS Qualification in Perth sees local through

Plain sailing as Annalise heads to London TRIBUTES have been paid to local sailer Annalise Murphy following her qualification for London 2012 at the ongoing World Sailing Championships in Perth.

Speaking to the Gazette, Dublin South Labour TD Alex White said: “News that Annalise Murphy has already achieved Olympic qualification for London 2012, is terrific news for all our aspiring Olympians.”

Deputy White also called for a renewed focus in closing the gender gap in sports participation saying: “Annalise’s success follows on from Grainne Murphy’s qualification for the 800 metres freestyle swim in Eindhoven. And though not yet qualified, Katie Taylor’s successes, and UCD’s Joanne Cuddihy, continue to inspire a whole generation of young Irish sportswomen.”

Welcoming the work of the Irish Sports Council in this area, Deputy White called for a renewal of the Council’s efforts to close the gender gap. Recent reports have highlighted a clear gender gap in sports participation, with only 34% of women participating regularly compared to 52% of men.

“The importance of women’s participation in sport is well

recognised by the Irish Sports Council who have completed a large body of research into the subject. That research revealed that less than one-in-five Irish women came close to conducting the accumulated 30 minutes of physical activity per day, for at least five days per week, as recommended by the World Health Organisation for good health,” he said.

COMMUNITY: FEARS THAT PEOPLE WILL BE LEFT VULNERABLE

Tracey slams cuts to garda stations Q PAUL HOSFORD

THOUSANDS of people will be left vulnerable following a reduction in opening hours at Stepaside and Cabinteely Garda Stations.

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That’s according to Sinn Fein’s Shaun Tracey who this week slammed the downgrading of the two stations as a result of budget cutbacks.

Mr Tracey said the closure of the stations between 10pm and 8am means there will be no open garda station in the Glencullen/Sandyford ward during late night hours, leaving thousands of people vulnerable.

Local Independent Councillor Gearoid O’Keeffe said it was “very regrettable” that Stepaside Garda Station would be one of the stations expected to reduce their public opening hours.

“I think it’s a great pity because Stepaside is an area which has had a lot of growth in the past number of years and there’s likely to be more in the future so I think the garda station has always been a very active one,” Cllr. O’Keeffe told the Gazette. “If any of the residents had any complaints, they were responded to very quickly and it gave the local community a sense of security.”

Meanwhile, Shaun Tr a c e y s a i d i t w a s extremely disappointing that local TDs could not move to save the services, given that the majority of them are in government.

“We have four government TDs in this constituency and not one of them could save Stepa-

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‘We have four government TDs in this constituency and not one of them could save Stepaside or Cabinteely Garda Stations’

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Shaun Tracey

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side or Cabinteely Garda stations. In fact all four of them have supported the budget, including the savage cuts and increases in regressive taxes.

“The reduction in opening hours at these garda stations means thousands of people will be without this essential

service during late night hours, including at pub closing times,” said Mr Tracey.

He went on to say that certain areas which the stations covered were already suffering from anti-social behavior problems and the loss of service would only serve to

exacerbate these issues.

“There are problems in many areas with antisocial behaviour and this decision will leave many people fearing that they have no protection from these elements.

“Gardai will now have to serve the Glencullen ward from Dundrum or Dun Laoghaire during these hours, giving a green light to criminal elements to ply their trade.

“This budget has targeted families, children, women, students and people with disabilities.

It has devastated communities and, in the Glencullen/Sandyford ward, it has left thousands of people with a drastically reduced garda service.”

However, Fine Gael TD Olivia Mitchell said the reduction in the stations’ hours was based on a need to keep gardai on the ground.

“The rationale is that there is less money and it is better to close buildings and keep gardai on the streets.

“The affected stations were stretched to breaking point, with some down to one squad car.

We were better off putting those gardai on the streets and concentrating on that.

“The Minister for Justice lives in the area and I’m sure if a better way could have been found to deal with these cuts, he would have done so,” said Deputy Mitchell.

15 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 3

PEOPLE Local’s first charity project sees her help to build a home FUNDRAISER Concert in aid of museum A CHRISTMAS concert in aid of the Maritime Institute of Ireland will be held at Christ Church, Park Road, Dun Laoghaire on Friday, December 16.

In what promises to be a “light-hearted performance of Christmas music for the festive season”, the Firhouse Singers will be performing the concert in an effort to raise funds for the museum’s restoration fund.

-------------------------Cabinteely woman, Louise Bernstein (second right at back) with members of the Habitat for Humanity team, and El Salvadorean couple, Ever and Dora, centre, for whom Louise and the team built a house in San Jose Villanueva La Libertad, located near the capital, San Salvador

Making a difference for an El Salvadorean couple Q NATALIE BURKE dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

CABINTEELY native, Louise Bernstein, took on a new adventure this year when she travelled to El Salvador with six other Irish volunteers to help build a house with the Habitat for Humanity project.

After moving back to Ireland from Canada last year, the 30-year-old product development manager decided this year would be about setting goals and having new experiences, so she got involved in her first ever charity project.

“I’d heard wonderful things about Habitat for Humanity and what they do and thought El Salvador would be an interesting place, as it’s not a country people talk about much,” Louise told The Gazette, following her return at the end of November.

Louise held various fundraisers throughout the year in order to raise the required €2,750, including a table quiz, running a half marathon and undertaking a 180km cycle around the Ring of Kerry.

“Even though people

are strapped for cash, people were really generous. They were really willing to help out, which was great,” she said.

For two weeks, the Irish volunteers worked in San Jose Villanueva La Libertad, located near the capital, San Salvador, where they built a house for a local couple hoping to start a new life.

“We built the structure of a house for a couple called Dora and Ever, but it will be for their children and their children’s children, as well as their extended family. It will last for generations, and will withstand the natural disasters that often wash away poorly-made homes,” said Louise.

Despite having no experience in construction, it didn’t take her long to learn the skills.

“I’d never built anything before, but we had one qualified carpenter and a mason in the group, and a few of the other volunteers had been on Habitat for Humanity trips in the past and had some experience.

“It wasn’t complicated, but required a lot of elbow grease,” she said.

The group worked from Monday to Friday,

The rapidly-rising frame of the solid new house

Louise, labouring on

with two free days to take in the local culture.

“We really packed in as much as we could in those two days but, as it’s a small country, we managed a lot, and took up every opportunity we had.

“With 75% of the country living below the breadline, we got to see both the very poor and the ultrawealthy.

“In a matter of hours, we went from people with no electricity or plumbing to a sprawling shopping mall with Rolex shops and

the build

ice-rinks,” she said.

For Louise and the other volunteers, the closing ceremony at the end of the two weeks was the highlight.

“The whole community, and the local children, were there and we had a big pinata. It was the most incredibly fun experience.”

For more information on Habitat for Humanity Ireland, and how to get involved in their projects, see www.habitatireland. ie.

‘The concert is being held to raise funds for the Maritime Museum’s restoration fund’ --------------------------

The restoration work on the Mariner’s Church – one of the last remaining sailor’s churches in the world – has been under way since 2006, and it is hoped the museum and library will reopen in spring, 2012.

The Christmas concert will start at 7.30pm.

Admission is €10, and refreshments will be available on the night.

For further information on the night, as well as on the legacy and role of the church, see www. mariner.ie.

4 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 15 December 2011

EVENT Members help turn on the Christmas Lights

Local School of Music enjoying some festive fever WITH the festive season already in full swing, the Dun Laoghaire School of Music have been busy “making music for charity” over the past number of weeks and were amongst those who helped switch on the Christmas Lights at Dun Laoghaire last weekend.

Last Saturday, members of the school took centre stage as they performed for over 20,000 people, when

they took part in the Christmas celebrations in Dun Laoghaire at the Christmas Lights ceremony, in aid of Barnardos Children’s Charity.

Speaking ahead of the school’s performance, Catherine Madden and John McCrea, directors of the Dun Laoghaire School of Music said: “We are delighted to be helping and using our talents for the benefits

of others who are truly in need of help and support, especially in these difficult times.

“We would sincerely like to thank all the teachers, students and parents who have taken time from their hectic schedules and who helped and supported us in raising funds for these very good and worthwhile causes.”

Over the past few weeks, the school has had a hectic

schedule raising funds for a number of worthy causes, including a charity recital in aid of Focus Ireland on Saturday, December 5. The free recital was held in The Gallery of the Pavilion Theatre in Dun Laoghaire, where the choir, students and teachers performed music and Christmas songs for all who attended.

“The event went really well, some of the teach-

ers performed and we had a junior violin ensemble which went down really well. There were about 30 people involved but it was really well attended and the school raised just under €500 for Focus Ireland within an hour,” said Michelle James, of the Dun Laoghaire School of Music.

Other fundraising events hosted by the talented school included a carol sing-

Show of support: Shop local

Free car parking at Old Harbour THERE will be free weekend Christmas car parking for the month of December in Dun Laoghaire Old Harbour.

The Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company said it was hoping the f r e e p a r k i n g wo u l d help encourage the local community to shop local and take part in the festive spirit of Christmas in Dun Laoghaire.

The free car park at the Old Harbour will be open on Saturdays and Sundays throughout December, from 10am until 8pm.

T h e 10 0 - p l u s c a r parking spaces will be available on a firstcome, first-served basis and are just a short walk to Dun Laoghaire town.

For more information, visit www.dlharbour.ie.

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ing event at County Hall in aid of Senior Citizen’s Day, a carol singing concert in aid of the DSPCA at Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre and a special Christmas concert at Clery’s, O’Connell St, for the grand arrival of Santa Claus.

For more information on the school, or to find out more about any upcoming concerts or events, call 01 2844178.

PICTURED at the opening weekend of the Dun Laoghaire Christmas Festival recently are students from Holy Child Killiney, who raised €3,000 to purchase gifts for 16 local families as part of the St Vincent de Paul toy appeal. Rather than shopping for gifts in different locations, the students decided that all funds raised should be spent locally in the Dun Laoghaire area to support local business and community.

Pictured (L to R back row) Pia Hutchinson, Sarah Keane, Emilie Keegan, Katie Cahill, Danielle Kelly. (Front - reaching forward) Anna Sheehan, Anna Egan from Holy Child Killiney.

DEATH: TRIBUTES PAID TO ‘A CHAMPION OF THE LESS WELL-OFF IN SOCIETY’

Community mourns passing of Judge Hubert C Wine Q DAWN LOVE

TRIBUTES have been paid in the council chamber to the life of Judge Hubert C Wine, who passed away last month.

Paying tribute to the life and work of Judge Wine, Cllr Victor Boyhan told a meeting of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council this week that Judge Wine was a champion of the less well-off in society.

“Judge Hubert Wine was passionate in

upholding and championing the rights of the disadvantaged and the marginalised.

“Judge Wine was notorious for refusing to incarcerate children in what he called unfit places of detention,” said Cllr Victor Boyhan.

Born in 1922, Judge Wine studied Law at Trinity College and, in 1976, was appointed a District Judge and served in Dun Laoghaire District Court for most of his tenure as a District Judge.

His early years on the bench were marked by

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‘Judge Wine was notorious for refusing to incarcerate children in what he called unfit places of detention’

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complaints about the leniency of his sentencing.

Judge Wine also served as a Judge in the Family Courts before he retired from the bench in 1992.

“Hubert was a prominent member of the Irish -Jewish community and served as the chairman

of the Jewish Representative Council of Ireland for many years.

“He played a pivotal role in shaping institutional childcare reform i n I r e l a n d wo r k i n g closely with Minister Mervyn Taylor, Labour Party TD, in drawing up legislative propos-

als to address, childcare reform, homelessness, special educational needs, and youth training for employment,” said Cllr Boyhan.

Cllr Boyhan went on to praise the contribution to the local community made by Mr Wine.

“Judge Wine made an enormous contribution to the community life of Dun Laoghaire, his sense of fairness and care for so many local people’s welfare helped many in the rehabilitation of their own lives.

“Justice is too impor-

tant to be left to the lawyers and politicians, I am here to administer justice as well as the law-these are just two of his many memorable quotes, in court, worth recounting here today,” councillor Boyhan told a packed council chamber this week.

After proposing a vote of sympathy to the family, councillors stood for a moment of silence in respect.

Judge Wine is survived by his sons Gary and Richard and his daughter Beverlie.

15 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 5

CHILDREN Record’s donations for LauraLynn House

W

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Philomena Dunne, CEO, the Children’s Sunshine Home, takes Mitch Winehouse on a tour of the facility, where (right) he announced details of donations for the hospice to be made from his late daughter, Amy’s posthumously-released album, Lioness: Hidden Treasures

Amy’s music to help hospice Q STAFF REPORTER

THE father of the late Amy Winehouse was in South Dublin for a special visit to the LauraLynn House in Leopardstown last week.

The Amy Winehouse Foundation had originally decided to donate the euro equivalent of £1 for every copy of Amy’s new album that is sold in Ireland between now and the end of the year.

However, after visiting the children’s hospice last week, Mitch Winehouse decided to extend the donation time period indefinitely.

He said he was genuinely moved by the work and people that are part of LauraLynn House.

The late singer’s posthumous album is entitled, Lioness: Hidden Treasures.

He said: “Having recently visited and supported several children’s hospices in Britain, we greatly admire the incredible work that these organisations carry out.

“LauraLynn House was officially opened in September this year, and is the first children’s hospice in Ireland.”

Speaking ahead of his

visit, he said: “We are delighted to be supporting them, and we are really looking forward to our visit this week, so we can see first-hand the work that is being done and also, hopefully, meet some of the families that are being helped there.”

Philomena Dunne, CEO of the Children’s Sunshine Home, said: “Like many of the families we support, Mitch Winehouse and his family sadly know the pain of losing a child.

Quality time “With the help of organisations like ours, we can help sick children and their families to enjoy quality time together in a home-fromhome like LauraLynn House, whilst ensuring they receive the best available medical care. “ [ We ’r e t h e r e f o r families’ needs,] be it something as simple as a night’s sleep, respite or end-of-life care – as every family’s needs are different.

“We are very grateful for the wonderful support the Amy Winehouse Foundation and Universal Music are giving to LauraLynn House this Christmas,” said Dunne.

BEAUTY PAGE 14

6 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 15 December 2011

OPINION Appeal on behalf of the younger generation

All teenagers aren’t bad news - give us a chance Q NICHOLAS FLANNERY

Fourteen-year-old Blackrock resident

THE youth of today is often associated with drugs, alcohol and plain rudeness. The “older” generation seem to think that us teenagers are the worst yet, but I don’t believe this is true. When you were young, did your parents not tell you that teenagers are getting worse? I believe that is a frame

of mind.

When people have one bad experience with a teen, or even just hear of an incident, they seem to make a misjudgment - all teenagers are bad news.

Yes, there are a few exceptions but there are also exceptions for older people. For example, if you saw an elderly person intoxicated in your local park you would not think the same of all elderly people throughout Dublin.

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‘I feel and see people even moving out of their way to get by as if I have a bomb strapped around my waist’

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Today, as I walk through Blackrock Shopping Centre in a tracksuit, which is common to nearly all teenagers of Ireland, I feel and see people even moving out of their way to get by as if I have a bomb

strapped around my waist. If people could only realise that I am not a killer, maybe I could help in some way, possibly help carry grocery bags.

We are often seen as lazy and have no “get up and go”

enthusiasm but, being in third year and currently preparing for my junior certificate, I know this is not true.

Every day I see over half of my year do after-school study in which we stay back and study for an extra-twoand-a-half hours; this shows how determined we can be in achieving our goals.

Over the summer I got myself a job in one of the world’s biggest banks, HSBC,

and worked for two weeks completely free of charge, just for the experience.

This should be a sign for employers that we really can work and we can do it free of charge, so do not be so quick to turn us down.

All in all, I believe ageism should be completely abolished from our community and us, as teenagers, should be treated the same as everyone else.

COUNCILS: COURTS: MAN TRIED TO ROB HIS LOCAL STORE WITH PRETEND EXPLOSIVE U-TURN ON NEVITT SITE

Landfill project dumped THE four Dublin local authorities made a U-turn decision this week not to press ahead with plans for a controversial landfill at Nevitt in north Dublin.

In a statement, Fingal County Council said that the Fingal Landfill Project had overcome a “final legal challenge to its development last month, following the granting of the necessary planning consent and waste licence, having begun the process of developing a new landfill for Dublin in 1997”.

However, the council added that, in consultation with the three other Dublin local authorities, it had decided not to proceed with plans to develop the site, due to the large costs that would be involved, and the “changed circumstances which have rendered the project no longer viable”.

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Three-year sentence for fake bomb robber A FATHER-OF-FOUR who tried to rob his local shop with a pretend bomb after threatening a kidnap, has received a three-year suspended sentence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

A a r o n Wa l l ( 33 ) , entered the shop and when the Polish shop assistants refused to give him the cigarettes for less than the retail price, he called them “communists” and told them they “shouldn’t be in this country”.

Wall, of St Kevin’s Close, Sallynoggin, Co Dublin, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery at Londis supermarket on Sallynoggin Road, Dun Laoghaire, on January 21, 2011.

Garda Lorraine White told prosecuting counsel Ms Roisin Lacey BL, that Wall, who was a regular customer of the shop, entered the premises at around 7.40am leaving his son’s bicycle outside.

He asked for a packet of cigarettes and when he realised he was €1 short he left the shop only to return with a bag.

He approached the counter and shouted: “This is a kidnap, nobody move – I have a bomb in my bag. Give me the money.”

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‘He didn’t even say what he wanted to say properly. He said ‘This is a kidnap...’ so it was not the most sophisticated crime’

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Dublin’s Central Criminal Court

He placed the bag, which contained cubed boxes with blue wiring wrapped together with sellotape, and tried to open the drawer of the Lotto machine.

One of the shop assistants told Wall: “I can’t open the till. Get the f**k out of here. I’m calling the gardai.”

Wall ran out of the shop

and when gardai viewed CCTV footage they identified Wall as the scarf he was wearing did not cover his face.

Wall, who has 27 previous convictions, was arrested in Dun Laoghaire a short time later and, while being interviewed, he told gardai he left the bag containing the bomb in a laneway and that the

‘bomb’ wasn’t real.

Gardai located two boxes wrapped together with sellotape with blue wiring and a pen sticking out of it.

He admitted to gardai that he went into the shop for cigarettes and when he was €1 short he asked the assistants could he have the cigarettes anyway, which

they refused to give him.

He told gardai he was “in a bad way” as he had taken tablets and was “upset with a lot of troubles” in his life.

The unemployed father was going through a break-up from his long-term girlfriend at the time, defence counsel Mr Patrick Reynolds

BL, said.

“He didn’t even say what he wanted to say properly. He said ‘This is a kidnap...’ so it was not the most sophisticated crime,” said Mr Reynolds.

“If it wasn’t a serious offence, it would be amusing,” he added.

Gda White agreed with Mr Reynolds that it was “not a terribly realistic bomb.”

“There was no way he could have ever gotten away with this as it was his local shop and he left his son’s bicycle outside. He was off his head on tablets at the time,” Mr Reynolds said.

Judge Patricia Ryan sentenced Wall to three years in prison, suspended for three years.

15 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 7

HEALTH Prestigious win for Dun Laoghaire’s IADT

Professor Donal O’Shea, Chair of the Irish Heart Foundation (IHF) nutrition council; Erika Barenscher, Aramark Ireland, Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology and Maureen Mulvihill, IHF Head of Health Promotion, attending the charity’s annual Happy Heart Workplace Healthy Eating Awards 2011

Healthy heart award presented to local institute Q NATALIE BURKE dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

THE Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT) was one of nine Dublin workplaces awarded for their efforts in promoting heart-healthy eating at a recent awards ceremony held by the Irish Heart Foundation.

The winning companies were applauded for their efforts to promote hear t-healthy eating in the workplace, and reduce the risk of obesity for workers at the Irish Heart Foundation’s Happy Heart Healthy Eating Awards 2011.

Along with the IADT, the other Dublin-based workplaces to pick up

awards included Dublin Bus, The Mater Hospital, The Coombe Women’s Hospital, Dublin Civic Offices, Kraft/Cadbury, Peamount Hospital, Symantec and Kylemore.

Six years since the National Task Force on Obesity (NTFO) launched a report on obesity, the problems of being overweight, and obesity, continue to rise in Ireland.

As the national charity fighting heart disease and stroke, the Irish Heart Foundation stresses the importance of the workplace as a key setting to tackle the rising problem.

Michael O’Shea, chief executive, the Irish Heart Foundation, said: “Healthy eating must play a vital role if we are

to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in our population.

“About two million people are employed in Ireland, and the workplace is a key setting in which we can work together to help tackle the problem.

“All those receiving our Healthy Eating Awards, representing all sectors, are contributing greatly to that effort,” he said.

T he Healthy Eating Awards, which are supported by the HSE, accredit workplaces that provide and promote healthy eating options in their staff restaurants, as recommended by the Irish Heart Foundation and the Department of Health and Children.

To date, more than 300

companies nationwide have been certified.

According to the Foundation, Irish businesses are more and more aware of the benefits of a healthier workforce, in terms of reduced absenteeism, increased productivity and improved employee morale.

By taking a proactive approach to healthy eating, companies can play a vital role in the fight against obesity and the health welfare of their staff.

Any company interested in achieving the Happy Heart Healthy Eating Award can contact the Irish Heart Foundation Health’s promotion department at 01 668 5001.

LUNCHEON

Sharing Xmas joy for 25 years THE annual Dun Laoghaire Christmas Day Lunch for people living alone, and for those in hard financial difficulties, is set to celebrate its 25th anniversary this year.

To celebrate the milestone anniversary, there will be a special celebratory cake, decorated with 25 big candles. Santa will also be calling in to give presents to everyone, and toys to children.

The lunch takes place from 10.30am until 2.30pm. Free transport is being supplied by Ed Kenny Coaches, and will leave from Tesco’s Ballybrack branch at 10.50am, Rochestown House at 11am, Noggin Inn at 11.10am, Glasthule at 11.20am, St Michael’s Church at 11.30am, and the last stop will be at York Road, Dun Laoghaire.

For further information, phone 01 280 4776.

8 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 15 December 2011

EVENT Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore officially opens the new

Super boost for area

ANAISTE Eamon Gilmore officially opened the new SuperValu store in Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre recently. The new store brings total investment in SuperValu stores to €25 million in 2011, which has created 400 jobs at locations nationwide.

The new €1.6 million store in Dun Laoghaire has created 70 new jobs. Opening the new store, Tanaiste Gilmore 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.”

T

Eamon GIlmore and Martin Kelleher, MD Supervalu. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

Carmel Forsythe and Debbie O’Connor

Vera Delaney, Sheila O’Mahoney and Imelda Plaides

Gerard Boyle

Yvonne McPartland

Sisters, Debbie Byrne and Lorraine Fox

15 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9

SuperValu store in Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre

SuperValu Bakers, Barry Reily, who returned to work in Ireland from Japan, to take up employment in SuperValu Dun Laoghaire’s bakery department (left) and Eileen Deegan, pictured with Martin Kelleher, managing director of SuperValu and Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore TD

Simone Charlton

James Thompson with his daughter, Joan

The Tanaiste and Martin Kelleher take a Margaret Brown

tour

Vera Delaney, from Monkstown, with the Tanaiste

Rachael McLoughlin was one of the first customers

10 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 15 December 2011

ENTERPRISE The Gazette pops over to The Design Corner

A stylish window, displaying some of their wares

No matter what angle they checked from, the designers were delighted with their handiwork. Pictures: Margaret Brown

Browsing bargains brings locals bliss

S PREVIOUSLY reported in The Gazette, a pop-up shop featuring the wares of several local artisans and designers was a smash hit when it opened its doors recently at Park House.

Featuring the work of 22 craftspeople and designers from across the Dun

A

Laoghaire-Rathdown region, The Design Corner is open until Christmas Eve, with its location opposite the entrance to The People’s Park proving an irresistible draw for the community, keen to support the enterprising endeavour and find great Christmas gifts, too.

Traditional Christmas goods were also on offer

Organised by the Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Enterprise Board, The Design Corner has already seen throngs of locals browse the diverse range of wares. Although the clock is ticking down to the temporary pop-up shop’s closure, it’s certainly proving a hit with local crafts lovers.

From jewellery to slate goods, knitted toys to cards, the designers had created lots of wonderful artisan goods for Christmas shoppers

An armful of strikingly designed dolls

15 December 2011 GAZETTE 11

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The only problem with resistance training is that, unlike the treadmill, which can be operated by even the most inexperienced gym goer, learning to lift weights safely and effectively

requires some professional training.

To get the best results from your g y m pro gramme, you need to target large muscle groups with compound exercises. T hese are exercises that use multiple muscle groups for effective fat burning.

Squats, deadlifts, pushups, bench press, dips, lunges, chin-ups, rows

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or pull downs are all examples of compound exercises.

D o n ’t w a s t e t i m e trying to spot reduce and lose abdominal fat by performing sit-ups because it can take you up to 30,000 sit-ups to burn a pound of fat!

There are less timec o n s u m i n g w ay s t o burn fat, you can do all the sit-ups you want and have strong abdominal muscles, but if they are covered in fat, nobody will ever see them.

Imperative

The muscles of the lower body; the quadriceps, hamstrings and gluteals are some of the biggest, so to burn fat it’s important to keep them in your workout.

It is imperative in any weight-training pro gramme that you train legs regularly. Working these muscles effectively will deliver noticeable results quickly.

Regular running or cycling will not produce the same results. The fact is that many professional runners and cyclists use resistance training to build these key muscles.

Aerobic training and resistance training use

For the most noticeable results in the shortest period of time, resistance training is the most beneficial form of exercise

very different energy systems giving completely different results.

The key to improving muscle tone is overload – this means the neuromuscular system must be challenged in each workout with a load it is not accustomed to. If you fail to increase the weight week by week, then your body has no reason to adapt and you will not see the results you deserve.

Once you have reached your peak

on your current programme, it is time to change. The body adapts to any stimulus when it is applied r e p e a t e d l y, s o y o u r gym programme must be changed frequently enough to elicit a physiological response.

If you do the same thing over and over, you cannot expect to see different results. If you stay on a single training plan for too long, then you are simply maintaining

your current level of fitness not advancing it.

Time to change if you want to see change!

DT Fitness is offering an amazing Christmas gift card offer to all readers of the Gazette: Buy a €100 gift card for only €80, and DT will give you another gift card for yourself worth €20 for free. So, this Christmas, treat a friend and treat yourself. That’s €40 discount for only €80 spend.

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

15 December 2011 GAZETTE 13

14 GAZETTE 15 December 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY LOCAL Being a goddess during this very festive season Edited by Dawn Love

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ARTER Beauty in Blackrock is going for all-out goddess gorgeous for the festive season with an array of treatments designed to make sure you are at your most glamorous this December.

Their ultimate luxefor-less Prepare to Party 5-in-1treatment includes pedicure and manicure, spray tan, eye-lash extension and brow shape, which would normally cost €120, but is now a recessionista-approving €65.

The Prepare to Party treat fest begins with a foot-fixing pedi and an OPI polish of your choice to get your feet red-carpet ready. On to your mani next, and they promise to have your nails polished to perfection and pictureperfect. The Prepare to Party treatment continues with a spray tan that will take you from pale, to flesh-flashing bronzed,

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using their signature spray tan or if preferred a Karora or Rock Star Tan. To complete your pamper perfection, they will then apply utterly fluttery, lash extensions, available in three lengths (short, medium or long) and then finally they will do an eyebrow shape to shape and upgrade your entire look.

Prepare to Party is €65. Carter Beauty is based at 40, Main Street, Blackrock, Co Dublin. wwwcarterbeauty.ie Tel: 01-2103624.

Resolution

It might seem a bit soon to be talking about New Year Resolutions with the festive season and parties well underway, but there’s nothing like a bit of forward planning.

Every year on January 1, millions of us begin the annual ritual of making a New Year’s Resolution.

Sales of chocolate and alcohol plummet, as we promise ourselves a new strict diet programme or an energetic gym schedule. However, most of us are ready to get back to our old ways by March.

Despite our best intentions, only one-in-10 of us will succeed in our resolutions.

So, why not make 2012 the year that you stick to your promises?

The Prepare to Party 5-in-1 treatment includes pedicure and manicure, spray tan, eye-lash extension and brow shape

Nelsons’ sell a range of natural products that are an ideal complement to a New Year Regime and we’ve checked out some of the best on offer.

Fitness fanatic

Setting yourself a new energetic gym regime after a few months, or even years, away from the gym will be an immediate shock to your body. Keep Nelsons Arnicare Arnica Cream in your gym bag, it is ideal post-workout.

Simply massage it in to help soothe those tender, aching muscles.

Increased endurance exercise can lead to

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reduced iron levels. If your athletic work-outs leave you with muscle fatigue and tiredness, it could be down to a lack of dietary iron. Top up your iron levels with Spatone, it is a 100% natural liquid iron supplement that is gentle on the stomach and easily absorbed. The easy storage sachets are perfect to pop into your gear bag while on the go.

Don’t give up giving up

Giving up smoking is one of the most popular resolutions that people make. However, it is an extremely hard one to stick to. Setting a realistic New Year’s Resolution will help you stay on the straight and narrow. New research has observed that chewing gum can help relieve anxiety, improve alertness and reduce stress.

Taking time out to chew a piece of gum, could help make a calmer, more relaxed you, helping you to stay on track to keeping your

Reduce stress with Rescue Chewing Gum

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15 December 2011 GAZETTE 15

16 GAZETTE 15 December 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods WITH Christmas fast approaching December can be the month where Yuletide cheese takes over the airwaves and shop speakers while decent music gets pushed aside (although not on Nova!).

Don’t get me wrong, one of my many guilty pleasures is Christmas music, and I’m not ashamed to say it! Although I only mean the good stuff none of your Shakin’ Stevens. And if you think Christmas music is cheesier than a bucket of fondue, ask yourself why even the most credible of rockers have released Christmas tunes.

Ok, probably for the cash, but we can still appreciate it. If you haven’t already this season, dig out The Greedies: A Merry Jingle, Twisted Sister’s White Christmas and the oh-so kid-friendly Alice Cooper with Santa Claus Is Coming To Town.

Another gem I discovered recently is a fantastic cover of a classic from Monaghan singer/songwriter, Ryan Sheridan, whose version of Walking In The Air is definitely worth a listen, with proceeds are going to the Make A Wish Ireland Charity.

She might sing in key but she needs to be locked up while it’s thrown away...Leona Lewis is to cover Nine Inch Nails’ spine-tingler, Hurt. I’m not one to ever turn up my nose at covers: the Johnny Cash version is hauntingly good. But after committing tune-icide on Snow Patrol’s Run and Oasis’ Stop Crying Your Heart Out, the X Factor winner obviously hasn’t heard of the phrase: if it ain’t broke – don’t break it.

Great to hear The Beastie Boys, The Small Faces, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Guns ‘n’ Roses are to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The ceremony happens in Cleveland next April. I wonder will Axl Rose show up on time?

Listen to Dee Woods from Radio Nova every weeknight from 7pm to 12am on 100.3FM

New Hall of Fame-rs, the Beastie Boys

Competition: Win a festive bundle of musical magnificence THE lovely people at Warners Music have provided us with a great Christmas present for the winners of our festive competition. Copies of this week’s brilliant album, El Camino, alongside REM’s hits collection, Michael Buble’s excellent Christmas, and Katherine Jenkins’ Daydream, are the prizes for those who can answer this question: Who was in The A Team in 2011?

Send your answer to competition@gazettegroup. com, with the subject line “Christmas Music Comp”, before Friday, December 22, or log on to our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/gazettenewspapers, post your answer, like and share the Christmas post on your wall.

REVIEW: SEVEN’S THE LUCK NUMBER FOR OHIO ROCKERS

Black Keys hit the high road with El Camino Q ROB HEIGH

IT WAS only a few days ago that I was bemoaning the lack of a real stand-out rock and roll act in the current firmament, and then, like manna from heaven, along comes The Black Keys’ seventh album, El Camino.

The group, from Akron, Ohio, have been plying their trade since 2001, and have been slowly but surely coming into their own. Over the course of their last two albums, Attack and Release and Brothers, there has been a marked maturity andconfidence coming into their work, and El Camino sees the return of acclaimed uber-producer DangerMouse to the mixing desk to steer this record to the masses.

Without a doubt this is their most assured and strongest work to date, and some great stomping rock songs.

From the fuzz-faced Lonely Boy that opens El Camino, to the funky bass of Mind Eraser that closes it, there’s literally never a dull moment.

Dan Auerbach’s solid riffs and arrangements

The Black Keys’ Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney have produced one of the best rock albums of 2011

take what would be a fairly formulaic set-up in lesser hands into another stratosphere entirely.

T he straight-up rock approch lifts for a moment at the start of Little Black Submarines, before it kicks into a higher gear in a dramatic move reminiscent of some of the stripped back and powerful moments on Nevermind where Kurt and Dave combined to epic effect.

The record is packed with those kinds

of breath-catching moments when the stardust gets sprinkled and you realise you’re in the presence of greatness - The Black Keys have been threatening to hit this kind of stride for their last few albums, and it’s such a pleasure to report that they are there.

It’s also great to see them strut their stuff on bigger platforms, with some fairly sizable arena shows on their calendar for early next year, as well as live appear-

ances on SNL and The Colbert Report that I hear tily recommend you seek out to see what these guys can do when they’re let loose in a live setting.

With there being, strictly speaking, two members of the band, singer and guitarist Auerbach and drummer Patrick Carney, there are inevitable comparisons with The White Stripes, but there is a more defiantly rock approach to The Black Keys’ music than the country and

blues influences that appeared through the Stripes’ catalogue - and it’s interesting to think that one of DangerMouse’s recent production gigs was alongside the Italian composer Daniele Luppi and Jack White on their cinematic Rome project.

Late in the year to be appearing in the best-of lists, El Camino deserves to be a wild-card entry to anyone’s record collection and a place in their hearts for the year to come.

15 December 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: PETS’ FEET CAN TAKE A BATTERING, HERE’S HOW TO KEEP THEM PROTECTED

Keeping your pet’s paws in tip-top shape E all know feet are made for walking and dogs’ and cats’ feet are no different; but did you know your pet’s paws are also made for protecting?

Yep, Fido’s pads are there to provide extra cushioning to help protect his bones and joints from shock, provide insulation against extreme weather conditions, aid him while he’s walking on rough terrain and help protect tissue deep within his paw.

With all that hard work to do, it’s no wonder cats’ and dogs’ paws often take a bit of a battering.

So, if you love your pet and want to keep his paws in tip-top condition, take a look at my tips below.

Fido and Kitty will be ever so grateful.

W

Winter Woes Rock salt and chemical ice melters can cause sores, infections and blistering to dogs’ and cats’ paws. Toxic chemicals can also be ingested by your dog and cat when he licks those paws.

After your pet has been outside, take a minute to wash his paws in warm water to rinse away any salt and chemical residue.

Foreign Objects Items such as pebbles, small shards of broken glass, pieces of ice and other debris can become lodged in your pet’s pads.

These can usually be removed safely and gently using a sterilised tweez-

ers. However, if in doubt, call your vet.

Get out the moisturiser Your pet’s paw pads can become cracked and dry.

Ask your vet to prescribe a veterinary moisturiser – do not use a human one – and massage into your pet’s paws.

Start by rubbing and massaging the veterinary moisturiser between the pads on the bottom of the paw and then move between each toe.

For dogs only, Vaseline is also a great barrier against salt so rub it onto his paws before each walk.

Cats may lick the Vaseline so you need to ask your vet if it is ok to use on cats or ask them what they would recommend as an alternative.

Doggy Exercise Your dog loves exercise but if you’re about to begin a new regime, start off slowly.

His paws may be sensitive, especially after a hard winter, and they can become chaffed or cracked; so take this into consideration before you bring him on long hikes

or runs.

Be conscious to avoid hazards such as broken glass and other debris when walking your dog.

Do keep this simple tip in mind — if you don’t like to walk barefoot on glass or other sharp objects, then neither will your dog.

Safety First It’s not unusual for dogs and cats to suffer cuts or other wounds from accidentally stepping on glass, debris or other objects.

Wounds that are smaller than a half-inch in diameter can be cleaned with an antibacterial wash and wrapped with a light bandage. For deeper paw cuts, see the vet for immediate treatment.

Prevention To reduce the risk of injury, keep your garden clear of pointy bits and pieces.

Pamper With Pedicures Your dog’s nails should just about touch the ground when he walks.

If nails are clicking or getting snagged on the floor, it’s time for a pedicure.

Ask your vet or groomer for advice about what type of nail trimmers are best for your dog and how to use them properly.

Nail trimming takes particular skill because if you cut them too short you’ll cut into the quick or blood vessel and this is very painful for poor Fido.

If you’re not confident, (and this is one task I never undertake to do myself), have your vet/ groomer do it for you.

If you have a cat please check with your vet first before you attempt to trim any of her nails.

Cats naturally scratch their claws to keep them short so they generally do not need their claws trimmed. Your vet will give you the best advice about this, so please consult him/her.

Snip and Trim In order to avoid painful matting, trim your dog’s paw hair regularly with a specially designed trimming scissors.

This applies particularly to long-hair breeds.

Simply comb hair out, especially from between the toes, and trim even with the pads.

Follow our tips to keep your pet’s paws in great condition

18 GAZETTE 15 December 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS Skoda keeping their eye on n CORMAC CURTIS

IT SEEMS to me as though Skoda have decided on a market strategy that takes them in to battle on every front with all of the big names in the motoring industry.

Across their entire stable of models, drivers will find something new and exciting from the Volkswagen-owned marque.

From the all-round complete motoring package that is the Yeti, to the executive luxury of the Superb models, there is hardly a hole in the range that they haven’t plugged.

One segment of car sales that has been showing considerable growth in recent years, is that of the lean, environmentally

sound and fuel-efficient vehicle.

Instead of simply pushing out one flagship eco-machine like some brands, Skoda have introduced a set of advanced technological solutions designed to reduce fuel consumption and pollutant emissions across their entire range.

With a green f leet that includes the Fabia, Octavia, Superb, Superb Combi and Yeti models, buyers have an exceptional choice.

I spent a week with the Fabia Greenline, and nearly fell out of my cot when I saw the estimated range for a tank of diesel would be in the region of 870km As with all the Greenline vehicles, the Fabia is powered by a direct-

injection turbo-charged diesel engine, in this case a 1.2TDI, 75bhp version.

The Fabia Greenline model is only available in one trim but, to be realistic, if you’re buying one of these cars, economy is the attraction, and the looks come second.

That’s not to say this car is without appeal in the aesthetics department.

It sports a tasty boot spoiler, 15” alloy wheels and fog lights.

The overall look from the outside is unmistakably Skoda, non-parallel lines and low-slung, which is something I have come to be quite fond of, to say the least.

Inside is a minimalist affair; the dash wouldn’t really inspire too much, and the seats certainly

lack the vibrant punch of those in the Fabia Monte Carlo – but more on that next week.

For the Greenline model, there is a clear

and bright set of dials, ESP, cr uise control, 60:40 split folding rear seats, eight-speaker sound system and electrically adjustable and

heated mirrors.

For city drivers, a key fuel-efficiency feature is the stop-start system.

When the car comes to a halt and is put into neu-

15 December 2011 GAZETTE 19

the ball with the Fabia Greenline --------------------------

‘The Fabia Greenline is only available in one trim but, to be realistic, if you’re buying one of these cars, economy is the attraction, the looks come second’

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

tral, the engine cuts out.

As soon as the clutch is depressed the engine restarts – saving plenty of idling on the daily commute.

It’s an unusual sensation when it first happens, but you soon get used to it.

For longer runs, thankfully, this feature can be

overrun with the flick of a switch behind the handbrake.

One small niggle I had was the lack of steering wheel controls…

even volume and station change buttons would be nice considering you’re being so good to the environment.

Speaking of environ-

ment, it’s worth mentioning that the Fabia Greenline falls into tax band A, which, since the recent budget, means you pay €160 in annual road tax.

The rated fuel consumption is 3.4l/100km and the emissions are 89g/ km.

Also helping to keep your fuel consumption down, is an indicator on the dash that clearly prompts you when you’re revving too much and should shift up.

One other little trick Skoda employ to keep the green halo unblemished, is they don’t include a spare wheel! Instead, you get a tyre repair kit and a compressor, which is sure to confuse the NCT centre when they go looking for it.

They also recycle energy from braking pressure back to the alternator to keep the battery toppedup and to run on-board electrical appliances.

Anyway, let’s talk drive

for a bit.

Just because this car offers incredible fuel economy and low emissions, it does not mean it takes a fortnight to get through the gears – 0-100km/h is 14.2 seconds and the top speed is 172 km/h.

To be fair, I spent a few days on the M1 and the N7 while I had this car, and while I may not have picked up any penalty points, I didn’t have any problem getting past traffic when I switched to the passing lane.

So, in short, this car has some good looks, it drives well and it will save you a packet on road tax and fuel - let’s face it, that ain’t ever going to get cheaper.

The Fabia Greenline costs €19,090.

20 GAZETTE 15 December 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY CARRICKMINES: DETACHED FIVE-BEDROOM HOME FOR €1,250,000

Magnificent abode set loose in Dunluce

Some of the trees on offer at B&Q

DECORATIONS: ALL KINDS TO SUIT YOU

Tree-mendous value on your Yule trees

DNG Stillorgan are bringing Dunluce, Glenamuck Road in Carrickmines, a spacious, light-filled detached residence totalling C.4000 sq ft, standing on mature grounds approached via a sweeping gravelled driveway with mature trees and electric gates, to the market for an asking price of €1,250,000.

Dunluce is an exceptional property finished to exacting standards throughout.

Entered via a spacious reception hall with a gallery landing over and vaulted ceiling with atrium, there is

plenty of natural light.

The property offers excellent open-plan and interconnecting receptions, all with hardwood timber floors, and all with direct access to the gardens.

The kitchen has a fully tiled floor in the kitchen area and an attractive range of Siematic kitchen units with a large central island with granite worktops, as well as a built-in oven, hob and extractor and dishwasher, and there is space for American fridge-freezer. There is a garage which is currently used as a gym.

The dining room and family room has

B&Q are offering a wide range of top artificial trees this Christmas which provide no–mess, no-fuss options for those of us who can’t stand the constant hoovering and needle-strewn floors of a real tree.

You can buy one that’s traditional green, colourful, fibre-optic, pre-lit or pre-decorated, or even a pop-up tree that’s easy to store and bring out again next year, as good as new.

The range varies from a Fairytale 6ft predecorated, lit, pop-up Christmas Tree for €44.50 to a simple Eiger Tree, at 7ft 6ins for €56, and plenty more besides.

Find out more about Christmas at B&Q at www.diy.com/christmas

Dragon in the house: Kerr helps out at business event JILLIAN McGuirk and Sinead Beggan, of McGuirk Beggan Property, were delighted to welcome Dragons’ Den star and entrepreneur, Bobby Kerr, to their office on Whitehall Road, Terenure, to join them in hosting an evening for local businesses, promoting the importance of keeping it local in the community.

Speaking at the event, Sinead Beggan said: “The evening was a great success, we were thrilled with the response and turn-out of other business owners and feel encouraged that the community will pull together in the New Year to promote and refer business locally and create new opportunities for each other.”

Dunluce, Glenamuck Road, Dublin 18 is on the market for €1,250,000

a superb wrap-around L-shaped reception with velu x windows over, and attractive vaulted ceilings with inset lighting and twin porthole windows. It features hardwood floors and double doors from the dining area out to the garden. This reception has wall-to-wall glazing all overlooking the garden.

The bedroom accommodation is also very generous, with one dou-

ble bedroom downstairs which could also be used as an additional reception if preferred, and four further double rooms upstairs, all en suite.

The property is approached via a s we e p i n g g r ave l l e d driveway with electric gates and ample offstreet parking to the front. There are mature front, side and rear gardens with lawned areas and mature trees.

The location of Dun-

luce is also appealling, with the Luas at Carrickmines situated within a short stroll as is Carrickmines retail park.

The M11 / M50 is also on your doorstep and Kilternan, Cabinteely and Foxrock villages are also close by.

Viewing is by appointment only and can be arranged by contacting Steven Manek of DNG Stillorgan on 01 2832700.

15 December 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

RETAIL: POPULAR EATERIE MARKS A MILESTONE EVENT

Kindergarten classes take care of young skiers at Kilternan

Mark Kavanagh, founder, Captain Americas; Jim Fitzpatrick, artist; Captain America; Tom Haran and Ronnie Delany

Happy birthday ya’ll!

UBLIN’S favourite dinner-themed restaurant, Captain Americas on Grafton Street, took a night off last week when they let their hair down for a good old-fashioned 40th birthday party.

D

Captain America himself was on hand to keep the staff safe from harm, as they celebrated 40 successful years serving hungry diners their favourite American food.

The pary atmosphere was a hit with everyone

Rebecca and Ruth Lee congratulate Captain America on his birthday

Why not try skiing this Christmas?

THE ski resorts of Europe may be praying for snow, but Irish snow-sport enthusiasts don’t have to look any further than South County Dublin for the perfect skiing and snowboarding experience, with or without snow.

Facilities at Kilternan are second-to-none, and include four different slopes to suit a wide range of users.

The main slope is 180m long; the intermediate slope is 150m, and this summer the two smaller slopes were revamped with a new surface called Snowflex, and Travelator (Magic Carpet) Lifts were installed.

Snowflex, which is decribed as the nearest thing to snow, is a soft, user-friendly carpet-like material, that, combined with the Travelator Lifts, is especially suitable for beginners, but is also being very much enjoyed by freestyle skiers and boarders.

The Christmas season starts with Santa visiting the slopes on December 18 at 4.30pm.

At 3pm there will be a special

class for adults and children at a special price of €15, followed by Santa’s arrival.

Also, after Christmas, a special course of beginner and intermediate classes will run over four days (Tuesday, December 27 – Friday, December 30) at 3pm each day.

There will also be a beginner class each day for those who do not wish to do a full course. The classes are suitable for adults and children aged seven and over.

Practise sessions will also be available for competent skiers from 2.30pm - 5.30pm.

Located at Kilternan, the Ski Club of Ireland caters for all levels, from first-timers taking their first lesson to seasoned skiers and snow-boarders. All age groups are catered for and they even run a “Kindergarten” ski course for children aged four to seven.

For more information visit www.skiclub.ie, or our facebook page www.facebook. com/skiclubofireland or phone 01 295 5658.

Captain’s cake

Adrian and Ronan Lots of guests helped to celebrate the milestone

Murphy cheer the event

Part of the evening’s promotional material

The newly resurfaced slopes at Kilternan

22 GAZETTE 15 December 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Spending the holiday season with the stars Celebrate Chinese New Year in London this January

CELEBRATE Chinese New Year in London this January. The Year of the Dragon will be celebrated at various locations throughout the city on January 29.

The actual Chinese New Year day will fall on January 23, with the London celebrations taking place on January 29 in Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square, Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue.

The action kicks off when the Chinese New Year Parade winds its way around Chinatown and the West End, before heading to Trafalgar Square where the main stage will come to life with dance, acrobatics and live music.

Shaftesbury Avenue will boast another live stage that will showcase the cultural talents of local community groups and schools. Visitors can also get up close and personal with the lion dancers who will be touring the streets of Chinatown. The entire area will be decked out with special decorations and market stalls, so don’t miss out on most spectacular event of the Chinese calendar.

Get there with BMI, British Midland International, who fly up to four times daily from Dublin to London Heathrow from €29 one way, including all taxes.

For more information go to www.flybmi.com or www.visitlondon.com.

The action will kick off with the Chinese New Year Parade

Emirates Airline gets set for launch of Dublin to Dubai route EMIRATES Airline is gearing up for the launch of its Dublin to Dubai route on January 9, 2012.

The airline will operate a daily service from January 9, which will leave Dublin at 12.55pm, arriving in Dubai at 00.25am the next day. The return flight will leave Dubai at 7.00am, arriving in Dublin at 11.30am. An Airbus A330-200 will be deployed on the route, offering First Class, Business Class and Economy Class.

Meanwhile the airline has announced 25 new jobs in Ireland and the opening of its first office in Dublin on Harcourt Road, Dublin 2.

The new recruits will be based at Emirates’ new Dublin office and at Dublin Airport’s Terminal 2, where the airline will have a high-profile presence.

Meanwhile, one of Ireland’s foremost airline veterans has been appointed by Emirates to the role of Country Manager for Ireland. Margaret Shannon, the former Head of Sales for Aer Lingus and Regional Manager (Ireland) at KLM, has over 30 years’ experience in the travel industry.

WITH the festive season just around the corner, some of the world’s best-known celebrities will soon be jetting off to their favourite holiday hideaways.

For those of you who fancy living like the rich and famous this Christmas, Hotels.com has compiled a list of top festive hotspots in which you are at least guaranteed a celebrity sighting, if not a chance encounter under the mistletoe this Christmas.

In Whistler and Vancouver, Canada, you just might r un into Justin Timberlake, Tom Cruise, Mel Gibson and Michael Buble.

Every year, many of our well-known and much-loved celebrities swap their cosy Christmas slippers for ski

boots, and take to the slopes of Whistler.

Some f lock to the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, which is the perfect hideaway tucked at the foot of Blackcomb Mountain.

J u s t i n T i m b e r l a ke and ex-girlfriend Cameron Diaz have been spotted here on several occasions enjoying the Whistler slopes by day, and relaxing at one of the outdoor fire pits in the Fairmont’s Mallard Lounge by night.

Other celebrities who have been known to spend the Christmas on the Whistler slopes include Tom Cr uise, Kurt Russell and Mel Gibson.

Just 125km south of W histler is Vancouver, hometown of pop crooner Michael Buble.

Since they married

last year, Buble and his Argentinian wife, Luisana Lopilato, have spent Christmas here surrounded by friends and family, so make sure to keep an eye out for them if Vancouver is on your list this festive season.

Prices at The Fairmont Chateau Whistler star t from €229 per room on Hotels.com Look out for Harrison Ford, Nicolas Cage and Justin Bieber in St Lucia.

If you’re dreaming of a white-sand Christmas instead of a traditional white Christmas, the lush Caribbean Island of St Lucia is the perfect spot to escape to this Christmas.

A popular retreat for celebrities hoping to top up their tan, Harrison Ford and Nicolas

Cage both own luxurious holiday homes on the island.

Catch the Festival of Lights with its light sculptures and lantern contests in mid-December, the countr yside bonfires on Christmas Eve, or simply relax at The Ladera Resort Hotel with its amazing sea and rainforest views.

I f i t ’s a n a c t i o n packed holiday you’re after, why not try a spot of wakeboarding or jet skiing at the BodyHoliday leSport Resort.

Be warned, you may have to share the water with Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez, both of whom have spent Christmas here frolicking in the sea.

Prices for this Christmas hotspot, Ladera Resort Hotel, start at €507 per room per night on Hotels.com.

However, if you’re looking to visit St Lucia on a smaller budget, visit Royal by Rex Resorts where prices start from €137 on Hotels.com.

In Barbados keep your eyes peeled for Rihanna, Simon Cowell or One Direction You don’t have to foot the steep bill at Sandy Lane in order to guarantee a celeb-sighting in Barbados.

Barbadian, Rihanna, spends her time relax-

The resort of Ladera on the

ing on the island during the busy holiday season so you could well find yourself dining in one of the islands fine restaurants alongside the pop sensation.

Of course, music mogul Simon Cowell is a regular here and frequently invites fellow celebrities to join him for the Christmas break.

It has been rumoured that he has promised X Factor group, One Direction, a trip to the island this year.

If that’s not enough, you may even bump in to Sting, or a member of the Beckham family, both of whom have been spotted here over the festive season.

Stay at the 4 -star Ocean Two Resort and Residence, where prices start from €307 on Hotels.com during the Christmas season.

15 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs A de-stressing massage is just the ticket

Castleknock Hotel has everything for your perfect Girls’ night out THE Girls’ Night out package at the Castleknock Hotel has all the elements needed to make a girly night a success - pampering, food, drink and a comfy bed at the end of it all.

The award-winning hotel spares nothing when it comes to making the night a success. Two spa treatments, which are included in the package, are the icing on the cake. A de-stressing massage and a mini manicure lasts roughly an hour, with the option to spend as long as you want in the relaxation room afterwards.

The open plan reception/bar area, allows for entertainment to be heard by all, but with well sound-proofed rooms there is no worry that Christmas party goers will disturb your sleep.

Why not spend some quality time stateside this Winter

island of St Lucia offers stunning views

FOR some winter fun, Stateside, check out the many offers GoHop.ie have to some of America’s favourite cities.

Save €60 per booking on a Las Vegas Winter trip from €639pps LAS Vegas is a city that barely needs an introduction, from its top-of-the-line resorts, shopping and dining to its exciting entertainment and nightlife, Las Vegas has earned its place as one of the world’s premier tourist destinations.

This package includes return flights from Dublin to Las Vegas, five nights accommodation in the Excalibur Hotel on a room-only basis, based on two sharing and airline taxes. Prices are all subject to availability at time of confirmation. Hotel upgrades available.

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Travel to March 30, 2012 Ref No: H008-3429 Book your Stateside trip online at www.GoHop. ie or call 01-2412389 to book over the phone.

24 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 15 December 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Kings of Comedy

CHRISTMAS is just around the corner, and The Pavilion is offering comedy fans a treat, as a trio of top comics – Barry Murphy, Joe Rooney and Kevin McAleer – are on hand to make you forget the season of good will, and delight in a season of top laughs and dreadful jokes (in the very best way, of course) instead. This Christmas, these three kings of Irish comedy can be enjoyed at 7.30pm on Sunday, December 18, with tickets costing €18.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340

Saveus Maveus and the Santa Claus Rescue WHEN Santa Claus goes missing just before Christmas, Dundrum children know that it’ll take quite a Dame to help save him – and there’s no Dame quite like aunty Saveus Maveus. Nasty Nickers has kidnapped Santa on Christmas Eve, so it’s Saveus Maveus to the rescue! There’s family fun to be had with this tough Dame, a villain to boo and hiss, and Santa to help save on Friday, December 16. For a range of show times and ticket prices, including for families and schools, see www.milltheatre.ie.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 New Dublin Voices

CAROL singing is a firm part of the celebration of Christmas, and Blanchardstown theatre, Draiocht, has laid on a show to delight. New Dublin Voices, winner of RTE Lyric FM’s nationwide Choirs for Christmas competition, promise a show to remember, as the award-winning singers have lined up a range of delightful carols for all, with many traditional, some new, and old favourites with a new twist. Hear the choir sing at 3pm or 8pm on Saturday, December 17 in the Main Auditorium, with tickets costing €15/€10 conc/family of four: €40.

ALVIN (front, centre) has to rely on his friends when he, and they, are “chipwrecked” on a desert island after their luxury cruise goes wrong. Left alone by themselves, the chipmunks will have a challenge to survive ... still, perhaps the island’s occupant will be able to help ...

Fur-ly entertaining This latest offering in the Alvin series treads familiar ground, making it acceptable enough family fare – just Q KATE CROWLEY

IN MY time, I’ve seen all kinds of horrors.

Nicolas Cage comedies.

Clive Owen in a beret. A Madonna film (once).

Grim stuff, I can tell you – but nothing compared to the horror of Grafton Street a few weeks before Christmas.

I had a clear mission last weekend - to grab Mr Crowley’s Christmas present; something long and thin, that you can hold in your hand, and which could be quite useful during any rain.

(Yes, dear readers, that’s right – a sturdy stick, for him to clear out the gutters if they get clogged up with any soggy leaves.)

This proved somewhat more difficult than I thought, and as I stood there, listening to a fundraising choir singing Titanic’s, My Heart Will Go On, apart from thinking to myself: “But my goodness, I hope

FILM OF THE WEEK: Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked +++ (G) 97 mins Director: Mike Mitchell Starring: Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, Jesse McCartney, Anna Faris, and several singing chipmunks

OUR VERDICT: THE latest in the Alvin series isn’t quite adrift in the ideas department, but this tale of a luxury family holiday gone wrong may not make a big splash with younger viewers. Still, as singing chipmunk films go, it’s not quite as bad as it could have been. While Alvin and friends end up lost on a desert island, the film retreads some very familiar ground ...

their song doesn’t”, my thoughts turned back to the movies, and to something that could give both of you, dear readers, a boost for Christmas.

Unfortunately, that something is another Alvin/chipmunks’ film (words which most adult readers will automatically associate with the soft ‘snick’ of cinema doors being locked behind them, trapping them inside for the next 90 minutes or so).

And so, with a heavy sigh that could compete with Vincent Browne

himself, let’s take a look at our latest chipmunkeying around with Alvin and friends. (See what I did there?)

I’m sure you all know perfectly well by now who Alvin and friends are, including their long-suffering human minder (owner?), Dave (Jason Lee), who, here, decides to head off on a luxury cruise with the chipmunks and, err, chipettes.

What could possibly go wrong? (I’ll give you a hint: it begins with “A”, and ends in “lvin”.)

Naturally, things don’t

quite go swimmingly once they’re all afloat, as, inevitably, the wascally wodents are soon in all sorts of trouble on the high seas, with Alvin threatening to sink their holiday spirits.

I see a couple of you checking your watches.

Okay, okay – yes, indeed, in a truly shocking and unexpected twist that isn’t in any way hinted at by the film’s trailers and promotional materials, Alvin and friends end up cast adrift from the cruise, winding up on a little island.

Why, they’ve been ...

CHIPwrecked, if you will! Ahem.

Alvin and friends must now rely on their wits, courage, and sparky musical abilities to survive, while Dave does his best to find them.

T he only familyfriendly problem is, the chipmunks soon find that they’re not alone on the island, where

someone who’s only had a basketball to talk to for years (no, not Tom Hanks) is very pleased to have new friends. A little too pleased...

And that’s yer lot.

Admittedly, it’s a somewhat brief summary, but this latest chimpunkery from Alvin and friends is yet another one of those films that’s all squeaky voices and musical interludes, and little substance, although small children are unlikely to notice that.

Many parents, and especially young children, will find it perfectly fine fare, as it follows the chimpunk formula to expected results.

Okay, it’s certainly not a Christmas cracker, but in the spirit of the season, I hereby pronounce Chipwrecked to be ... tolerable.

Happy Christmas, chipmunks everywhere!

And no more sequels, please!

15 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING It’s a Grand ‘new’ release to look at SHANE DILLON

IT’S certainly been an interesting year given the number of “new” games being released, that are anything but.

We’ve seen anniversary editions of games being re-released, typically with a HD brush-up, and sometimes with all subsequent add-on maps and DLC packs, creating near definitive collectors’ editions of said titles.

Indeed, at the time of going to press, the news has finally been confirmed that the expected launch of Grand Theft Auto 3 (GTA3) for portable devices is set for Thursday, December 15.

So, if city-roaming open world “sandbox” titles are your thing, I dare say that you’ll find GTA3 on your online store, if you set aside your Gazette.

It’s not the “first” handheld edition of Grand Theft Auto, of course – years ago, I whiled away many an hour roaming around Liberty City on

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

It’s interesting that the 10 Year Anniversary edition of GTA3 will be out for a wide range of IOS- and Android-driven devices

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

my trusty old PSP, as well as other GTA locales – but it’s interesting that the 10 year Anniversary edition will be out there for a wide range of IOS- and Android-driven devices.

To be honest, at this stage GTA3 is something of a curate’s egg – excellent in parts, yet unappetising in others, having long since been superseded in gaming by subsequent iterations and rivals.

Still, although at ten years old GTA3 is something of a dinosaur, people love dinosaurs, and

gamers are likely to grab GTA3 for their ubiquitous phones/gaming devices.

I predict a lot of rapidly draining batteries in the near future.

As I said at the start, it’s been an interesting year, seeing the number of re-released editions of games.

While the Publishing and Cinema worlds have been at this for years – how many “special edition” DVDs do people own, with each new version simply bunging in an extra two minutes from the cutting room floor?

– it’s not something that happens very often in gaming.

Having already sold more than 114 million copies across its diverse franchise since the series emerged in 1997, I’m sure this version will add a healthy figure of several million more sales, although at this stage, it’s hard to think of gamers who don’t know the thoroughfares and back alleys of Liberty City like the

back of their hand.

However, apart from the financial sense for Rockstar Games to release this anniversary edition, it helps to reawaken interest in the company, given that it also recently announced Grand Theft Auto V. Gamers just can’t seem to get enough of the open world settings that Rockstar specialises in –mixed up with lashings and lashings of violence and adult language and humour, of course – but it’ll be interesting to see how GTA3 performs on its release.

In a similar vein, many will have noted Skyrim’s spectacular success at retail, showing beyond doubt that gamers have a great interest in open worlds beyond Rockstar’s gritty modern-day settings.

Only on release for a few weeks, Skyrim has already almost matched the total sales of its predecessor, The Elder Scrolls: Oblivion, with its freeform gameplay across a half frozen fantasy set-

ting, slaying lots of rivals at retail.

I’ve stated before that lots of articles have been written in the mainstream press, both in culture and business sections, about the terrific sales of the rival war shooters, Battlefield and Call of Duty.

Still, while those two gaming giants continue taking pot shots at each other, the Nordic trappings of Skyrim’s dragonslaying Viking-esque hero has seen him march his way up the charts, seemingly invisible, while the press remain focused on the shooters.

It would not appear that a vaguely Viking hero and a modern-day gangster have anything in common, but at least they show that, although ten years apart, gamers still have a huge appetite for big, open worlds where they decide what to do, and when.

It’ll be interesting indeed to see how all this translates to GTA3’s sales on handhelds ...

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

The mean streets of Liberty City are beckoning Dublin gamers with the release this week of Grand Theft Auto 3 on hand-held devices

GAZETTE

26 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 15 December 2011

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Permission is sought for development consisting of: replacing the existing front door with a window, moving the front door to the side of the house, solar panels to the front, a single storey extension to the rear with pitched roofs, roof-lights and associated ancillary site work at 69 Richmond Park, Monkstown, Co. Dublin by Catherine Hayes & Hugon Simm. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin during its public opening hours.

A submission/observation regarding the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of a fee of €20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the planning authority.

Permission is sought for retention of modifications to previously granted planning permission ( Reg Ref. D10A/0664) at Glandore, Gordon Avenue, Foxrock, Co Dublin by Gerry and Barbara Nolan. The modifications include a rear loft dormer, a store on back of garage (floor area 5.2sq m) and minor alterations to layout which do not affect the accommodation numbers or use but which realise a modification to external envelope profile and minor increase over previously approved floor area by 8.3sq m. 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.

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Permission is sought to construct an attic extension and conversion by altering front roof hip and extending over patio area in line with front wall of existing dwelling to form a new gable wall profile, associated first floor windows and rooflights, new front porch canopy, rear attached single storey extension and all ancillary works at no. 46 Highfield Park, Dundrum, Dublin 14

by Paul & Sandra Walsh.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Dún Laoghaire during its public opening hours. A submission/observation may be made on payment of €20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the planning authority.

Permission is sought for single storey extension to front of house & two storey extension to side and rear of house at 8 Balally Avenue, Dundrum, Dublin 16,

by Margaret Downey.

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, Dunlaoghaire, during its public opening hours.

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

We, Lorenc and Lynne Myrto are seeking planning for the construction of a One Storey Extension (approx. 3.0m High) with all associated site works to the side of an existing structure currently used as a residential home. The development will incorporate a Garage and a Utility room with a total floor area of approx. 26m² at 33 Woodlands Park, Cabinteely, Dun Laoghaire.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Dún Laoghaire during its public opening hours.

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We, RC DESIGN SERVICES LIMITED wish to apply to Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council for planning permission for retention on behalf of our client Mr Robert McGreevy, of 27, Sandyford Hall Grove, Kilgobbin Road, Dublin 18. For the domestic detached single storey shallow mono pitched roofed family recreation room, that houses a swimming pool, exercise equipment, and w.c. to the rear garden at 27, Sandyford Hall Grove, Kilgobbin Road, Dublin 18. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority County Hall Dun-Laoghaire during its public opening hours (10.00am to 4.00pm, Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays). The offices are at: Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, County Hall, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire Co. Dublin.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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GazetteSPORT

FAST FORE-WARD: Cian Curley building on his debut season on the pro tour Page 29

SOCCER: CITY CHILDREN SUPPORT LOCAL CHARITIES WITH TOLKA PARK MATCH

Students have a heart for their charity efforts sport@gazettegroup.com

IRELAND goalkeeper Shay Given has given his support to 40 secondary school students from Dublin with their Have a Heart, Save a Life campaign.

The students aim is to fundraise enough money for life-saving e q u i p m e n t f o r t wo charities, Heart Children Ireland and Chain of Hope, Jamaica.

Last week saw the

students organise a celebrity charity football match at Shelbourne FC’s Tolka Park Stadium.

The students were joined by Air tricity League players, members of the Fair City cast, and FAI CEO John Delaney presented medals at the end of the match.

The students, through their Localise community programme, have been planning and

organizing this event for ten weeks. The FAI gave the students an Ireland jersey, signed by Irish team players, along with match tickets for an Ireland game of choice in 2012, including passes to meet players afterwards for auction prizes, and if people wish to donate or support the campaign in any way they can by visiting www.localise.ie/save-alife-campaign.aspx.

“We all like playing

The teams line up for the charity match at Tolka Park for the Have a Heart – Save a Life campaign

football and we wanted to help teenagers like ourselves, but who have problems with their hear ts. T he charity, Heart Children Ireland, is only across the road from our school,” said

one of the students.

Supporters The students are been suppor ted and mentored by the American Embassy in Dublin, the FAI and Dublin City

University.

“The idea is to encourage students to use their interest in spor ts to help other young people who are fighting heart disease and to make the point

that individuals from all walks of life can play a key role in helping others,” said John Hennessy-Niland, Deputy Chief of Mission at the American Embassy in Dublin.

28 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 15 December 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

RUGBY: A DEPLETED WES LOSE OUT TO TERENURE IN DIV 2A

Monkstown close in on senior league title MONKSTOWN hockey club took another significant step toward a first Leinster senior league title since 1982 when second-half goals from Lee Cole and Richard Sykes handed them an eighth win from nine outings as they got the better of Glenanne 4-2 in Tallaght.

They will hold a four-point advantage over the chasing pack until the league resumes fully in the last weekend in January.

Runar O’Moore and Gary Shaw – with his 13th of the season – exchanged goals inside the first ten minutes before Town hit the front for a second time when Cole nabbed the ball off Joe Brennan and found Gareth Watkins to make it 2-1, his sixth in three games.

He was subsequently sin-binned and Glenanne were level at the break when Richie Shaw scored from a corner.

Gary Shaw could have put the hosts in front for the first time from the flick spot after a quick counter attack but Dave Fitzgerald saved to keep the tie in the balance and the Town prospered. Cole finished off at the back post for 3-2 before Graham Shaw made his way to the sin-bin, also for dissent. And the win was capped in the final minute as Richard Sykes roofed a drag-flick to copper-fasten the win.

For the Glens, they sit eight points off the pace but have a game to rearrange against YMCA to earn back some of the lost ground, a tie most likely to be played in early January.

Regular contenders Pembroke are the Town’s nearest rivals and are four points off the pace having bounced back from two poor results to smash YMCA 4-0 last weekend and reassert themselves in the title race.

Old Wesley were short of players in the Ulster Bank tie against Terenure, and were unable to match their opponents’ drive

Wesley’s league woes ULSTER BANK DIV 2A Old Wesley Terenure

12 32

sport@gazettegroup.com

OLD WESLEY, short a number or regulars, suffered a heavy defeat to Terenure at Donnybrook and saw their title challenge take a pre-Christmas blow. The result sees them falling back to fourth in the division, five points behind leaders, Dublin University.

The students got the better of DLSP 6-3 to swap places at the top, making it a rough day for local clubs.

A try count of five to two usually tells its own story, and this was no exception. The Ballinteer old boys were forced to play second fiddle throughout to a highly motivated, physical and

efficient opposition.

Feeding off a steady supply of good quality ball, the visiting backline had too much pace and guile for their counterparts, who lost fly half Dan van Zyl to injury early on.

Through David McAllister, Terenure were able to control the pace of the game, playing territory to great effect, and frequently exposing the home defence out wide. In comparison, Old Wesley were somewhat predictable in their approach, spreading the ball regularly but lacking the penetration to trouble the visitor’s defence.

They built a 32-0 lead inside 50 minutes as McAllister registered a try, drop goal and two successful conversions while Conor Kelly

crossed twice with Craig Kolarik and Cathal Morley also scoring fivepointers.

They opened their account on 12 minutes following a backline break on the 22-metre line.

This appeared to spark Old Wesley into action, with captain Tristan Goodbody and lock Philip Hosie leading some good forward drives, and centre Nigel Kinlan making ground.

But handling errors, combined with predictability, meant that the Old Wesley attacks were easily repelled.

A loose kick ahead on the half-hour mark was returned with interest for a converted try and a 15-0 lead while McAllister’s drop extended the visitors lead to 18 at

the break.

A last-ditch tackle by wing Barry McLaughlin saved more pain for Wesley at the start of the second half while his long-range penalty hit a post before the home side conceded again.

It came from turnover ball on halfway, which saw Ternure sprint home, and another loose pass was punished to make it 32-0.

Old Wesley set about regaining some pride,

which they did to their credit in the closing half hour.

As the game approached the final quarter, winger Ross Johnson finished off a good move. Barry McLaughlin converted.

Despite further pressure the Terenure defence stood firm until the final move of the game that ended with Goodbody burrowing over to leave the final score 12 - 32 in Terenure’s favour.

15 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 29

in association with

Curley back in swing of things

FastSport

Making his way in golf’s highly competitive pro ranks, Cian Curley tells STEPHEN FINDLATER he has the roadmap to a bright future in his second year

Dublin players line out for the GAA GPA All-Stars

CIAN Curley is lining up a more consistent approach to 2012 as he embarks on his second year in the professional golfing ranks, seeking to climb the ladder from the Euro Pro-Tour and upwards to the European Tour.

A contemporary of Shane Lowry in numerous Irish and Leinster amateur sides, the Lucan man knows it is certainly attainable but his debut season in the paid ranks quickly taught him the margins for error are wafer-thin, a voyage of personal discovery.

“A little bit more reality sets in. I wouldn’t say I underestimated the standard but… I basically wasn’t good enough,” he told the Gazette.

“I was [good enough] when I was playing close to my best but, when you’re not, you still have to be good enough to compete. That was the thing for me. I was way

the years to come.

A fine sportsman, he previously represented Scoil Aine Naofa in the Cuman na mBunscol finals in Croke Park – in the same side as now-

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

‘It costs you €1,000 a week on tour. As a pro, you are your own business. If things aren’t working, you need to change them.

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

too inconsistent.”

It is a frank and honest assessment for the Newlands’ man who reckons the accumulation of learning experiences have given him the steel to challenge, not just at this level, but beyond in

Longford intercounty footballer Enda Williams – while also winning numerous soccer titles with Hillcrest.

He also lined out in Weston hockey club colours but golf soon took centre-stage, saying it

Driving on: Cian Curley has amended his swing for his second professional year

was “probably the sport I was best at, even though I would have like to have thought I was better at football.”

Admitting he has never had any interest in college courses, since 2004, it has been a cycle of working jobs throughout the winter to help optimise his game when the season swings into gear.

It saw him rise to the top of the amateur game in Ireland, before taking the next step and turning to the paid ranks and the Pro-Tour.

On his day in his first season, Curley recorded a series of 65 and 66s but the bad days saw 74 and 75-shot rounds.

With a large portion of the safety net that comes with the amateur life now gone, such results made Curley quickly realise his career was very much akin to being a sole trader.

“As a professional, you are your own business. If things aren’t working, you need to change them.

“The biggest thing was to change my coach. I came to the stage where it wasn’t working for me and you can see the inconsistency from the results. I didn’t know my swing. Towards the end of the season, I sat down and tried to figure out why. I came up with a number of things, and that’s what I’ve been working on.”

Now, he is using his

time out to focus on his career and rebuilding his backswing, changing some motor patterns he has been playing with for a number of years.

By comparison with his lead-in to the 2011 campaign, one mostly spent injured, he is also spending more time in the gym with a view to hitting the ground running. “ I ’m m a k i n g t h e improvements so I can go up a level. If you’re good enough, you’ll make the money and move on but it is incredibly tough. It costs us €1,000 a week to compete and because the money is so top heavy on the tour we play on.

“You’ve got to finish in the top five to break even every week. Between 150 and 160 play each week, so it’s tough to get up to the next level.

“But, with the work I’m doing now, I can definitely see myself being a multiple winner on the Euro Pro-Tour and then go to qualifying-school and move up. That’s the long-term goal at the end of next season, and it’s very attainable. I’m just trying to do the right things. I’ve got a clear picture of where I’m going and what I’m trying to do.

“I’m definitely good enough to compete. I haven’t thought too far ahead but that is what I’m focused on until February.”

BALLYBODEN St Enda’s Gary Maguire, Lucan Sarsfields’ Peter Kelly and Kilmacud Crokes’ Ryan O’Dwyer were among the 2011 GAA GPA All-Stars hurling tour team sponsored by Opel, that recently travelled to San Francisco to play a series of matched in the Golden Gate city.

The touring party consisted of players from the 2010 and 2011 All-Star hurling teams who played in the tour’s exhibition game under the guidance of team managers Liam Sheedy and Davy Fitzgerald.

The tour game took place at Treasure Island, the headquarters of San Francisco GAA, and was preceded by a special breakfast event, held in conjunction with Ireland Reaching Out, which aims to connect the Irish diaspora with the GAA’s growing international club network.

Waterford’s Shane Walsh led the scoring ranks for the 2011 hurling All-Stars as they edged out their 2011 counterparts by a single point. Walsh scored 1-5 for the 2010 squad as they beat the 2011 team, for whom Tipperary forward Lar Corbett scored three goals.

The final score was 2010 All Stars 3-24, 2011 All Stars 7-11.

Miles all over the city for GOAL charity THERE will be no less than 14 GOAL Miles taking place across Dublin over the festive period.

The GOAL Mile is held in villages, towns and cities all over Ireland every Christmas and is one of the country’s biggest and longestrunning annual fundraising events.

Among the venues for the Christmas Day GOAL Miles are Kilbogget Park, Killiney, from 11am to 12 noon; at Irishtown

Stadium from 10am to 12 noon; at Lucan Harriers from 10am to 12 noon; at Malahide Castle from 11am to 12 noon; at Eamonn Ceannt Park, Sundrive Park, Dublin 12, from 10.30am to 12 noon; and at The Pope’s Cross, Phoenix Park, from 10am to 12 noon.

The Mile will take place on St Stephen’s Day at Corkagh Pairc, Clondalkin, at 11am; at Wildgeese GAA pitch, Oldtown, at 12 noon; and at Porterstown Park from 11am to 1pm.

For more information, contact GOAL at 01 280 9 779, or on fundraising@ goal.ie.

30 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 15 December 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Cabinteely youth sides lead charge in SFAI cups CABINTEELY’S Under-12s will lead the club’s charge in the national SFAI cups as they reached the last 32 of the All-Ireland cup where they will face Lourdes Celtic, following the open draw made in Killarney this week.

To get this far, they have emerged through four rounds of competition, including victories over St Francis (2-1), St John Bosco (3-0) and a thrilling fourth-round tie against Esker Celtic (4-3).

The remainder of the club’s entrants were unlucky not to emulate their achievements as the U-16, U-15 and U-13 sides all reached the fourth round in the DDSL section – the last phase prior to the national section of the competition.

The Under-16s fell to Shamrock Rovers while the 15s were undone by St Kevin’s Boys. St Joseph’s Boys were the victors at U-13 level.

Tickets and fun aplenty for Leinster tie HEINEKEN is matching the on-field thrills with excitement off-field this weekend when the Heineken Cup comes to Dublin for Leinster’s Pool 3 game against Bath.

They are celebrating the weekend’s rugby entertainment with an equally impressive display around the Aviva Stadium on matchday.

Ticket giveaways, a live-match tracker

and a carnival atmosphere will be on offer, and, from 2pm on Saturday, the search will be on at D4 Hotels, Ballsbridge Inn for the Heineken Fan of the Match, culminating in some lucky fans winning some last-minute match tickets.

Taking the Heineken Cup celebrations across Dublin, rugby fans can win on-the-spot official Heineken Cup prizes with Heineken Pass in over 20 pubs across the city.

For more information visit www. heineken.ie/ heinekencup

ATHLETICS: LOCAL RUNNERS SHINE AT EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

DSDAC runner Joe Sweeney was head and shoulders above his fellow competitors in Slovenia at the European Cross-County Championship

DSD learn Slovenia lessons sport@gazettegroup.com

DSDAC’S Joe Sweeney says the lessons learned from his fifth-place finish at the European cross-country championships in Slovenia will see him in good stead to medal at next year’s event.

He spent much of the race in second place behind runaway Belgian leader and eventual winner Atelaw Bekele as he approached the bell.

But, with little help from his fellow chasers, he endeavoured to go for the win and ultimately saw the medals slip from his grasp on a punishing

final lap while the Irish men’s team ended in sixth place overall.

Speaking about the run, Sweeney said he was frustrated that no one was willing to try and reel in Bekele with him.

“The way it was being run, the Spanish and the Portuguese were up the front and letting Bekele go. They didn’t want to put any front-running in with two laps to go,” he said.

“So I decided, what the hell, I’m going to try and win this today. But I still held something back for the end in case I had to sprint and I

Lions assist local club: Boxing clever AS PART of their commitment

to the local community, the Killiney Lions’ President Jim Bradfield recently presented an exercise bicycle to Ballybrack Boxing Club to help them with their training as the club continues to develop and grow in the area, with more members being added to their ranks all the time. For more information about the club, contact Paul MacNamara on 01 282 1952.

realised with a lap to go, I wouldn’t have enough left to do it on my own.

“So I let them come by me and try again when they did. I was a bit disappointed because I didn’t think I had as much left in the tank as I did and they were coming back to me in the home straight so I wished I had pushed on a bit harder from further out. It’s easy to say that in hindsight because I’m pretty tired now.”

Nonetheless, he was proud of his efforts in what was a high-quality field.

“The way I look at races, I don’t mind

where I finish so long as I’ve given it everything. I could have maybe run it tactically better but this is a learning process.

“The key thing is to be stronger for next year and I will be and going for medals,” said Sweeney In the U-23 Women’s

race, Sarah Louise Treacy was the best finished 18th overall, her best ever placing yet at these championships.

In the Junior girls, the best performance in this young team was Colaiste Iosagain’s Siofra Clerigh Buttner who finished in 49th place.

15 December 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 31

in association with

LADIES’ GAA: FOOTBALL AND CAMOGIE ON SHOW a

CLUB NOTICEBOARD CUALA THE club AGM took place last Thurs-

season. Interested applicants are

day. Congratulations to all those

requested to submit their names

members of the new coiste elected

in writing by email only, before 6

on the night. The decision was taken

pm on Friday, December 16, to Liam

to maintain club membership fees

Breathnach, Cathaoirleach, Adult

at the same level as the past two

Games Section liam.breathnach@

years and there has also been a cap

hotmail.com.

introduced on the amount payable

Cuala’s Concern for Somalia is a charity fundraising initiative in

by any single family.

Credit was paid on the night to the

the form of a Sponsored Family

huge effort of all those members

Hike in Glendalough on January 8

of the club who have made a huge

2012. Sponsorship forms and more

effort through the year to allow us

det ailed arr angemen t s will be

continue to be the club we are.

available shortly.

As a gesture of thanks for all

Our games may be drawing to a

mentors, managers, fundraisers,

close for the year but Cuala mem-

helpers and members the club is

bers are active across a host of dif-

putting on a free concert in the hall

ferent sports.

this coming Saturday, December 17.

Congratulations to Sarah Healy of the U-10 girls group who won the

All welcome.

Applications are invited for the position of team manager for two

U-11 All-Ireland Cross-Country title over the weekend.

adult Teams, the second football

Good luck also to her team mate

and the third hurling teams. These

Rachel Hartnett who will be playing

Aisling King and Sorcha Furlong from St Brigid’s and Naomh Mearnog’s Denise Masterson and Catriona Power at

positions are for a minimum of a

in the last 16 of the All-Ireland U-12

the launch of this year’s ladies Dubs Stars event. Pictures: GAApics.com

two-year period 2012-2013, follow-

Tennis Matchplay tournament in

ing a review at the end of the 2012

Belfast next weekend.

Ladies all set for Dubs Starring roles sport@gazettegroup.com

THE Dublin ladies’ football and camogie county boards this week launched this year’s Dubs Stars event at a crisp and frosty Naomh Brid.

The event sees the very best performers from the Dublin county championships take on the county’s senior counterparts in a pair of highquality fixtures in Russell Park on the Navan Road on December 27.

Maureen King, ladies’ football chairperson, was keen to invite as many people from the county’s GAA community to take in this showcase of the top Sky-blue talent.

“The annual Dubs Stars is a great occasion where you can come along and see the best players in the county for camogie and ladies football.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to demonstrate what is the wonderful talent of our Dubs Stars.

Come along, it’s Christ-

mas time and a great day’s fun and entertainment. We look forward to seeing you there.”

“Both associations have been working closely together to provide players of both codes with a suitable stage to play against the best in the county.

“The players can display their undoubted skills and also get rid of the Christmas cobwebs!”

T he Stars will be named in the coming days, with plenty of highquality players in line for a call up.

On the football side, a number of the Na Fianna side that reached the All-Ireland senior club final will be hoping for a selection after a brilliant campaign that saw them progress through Dublin and Leinster.

At intermediate level, Round Towers produced one of their best seasons when they got to the Leinster semi-final, overcoming both the Long-

ford and Carlow champions before falling at the hands of Louth’s Stabannon Parnell’s.

Junior champions St Sylvester’s, meanwhile, made it to the All-Ireland semi-finals, in a display that shows the strength in depth in the county at the moment.

On the camogie side, Ballyboden St Enda’s stepped back into the winner’s enclosure when they got the better of Raheny back in October before coming unstuck against old Leinster rivals, Wexford’s perennial challengers Oulart the Ballagh.

Along with Naomh Jude, Erin’s Isle and Raheny, they are likely to provide a series of stars to the mix while Lucan, Senior B finalists, will also have a number of contenders.

The camogie game starts at 11am followed by the ladies’ football game at 12.30pm.

Local clubs will take part in juvenile miniexhibition games at halftime in both matches.

The mini-games will be followed by lunch and a presentation. Admission is free to Russell Park for the day.

BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S The club extends its deepest sym-

Pr esen t ations were made on

pathy to the families of Eoin Turner

behalf of the members at the gen-

and Niall McNamara.

eral meeting. Officers 2012: Chair

Many thanks to all who organised

Gerry White; Vice-chair Robbie

the visit of Santa and to the many

Lambert, Secretary Orla Mullaney,

people who turned up.

Treasurer Catherine Nagle.

Well done to the organisers of the Christmas Senior Citizens’ party.

General Meetings: Hurling Thursday, December 15 at 8.30. More

mas draw.

Dublin Yearbook 2012 will be on sale this week - put in your order

details on website.

Congratulations

Many thanks to those who supported the ladies’ football Christ-

to

Mona

now for the 300-page edition.

O’Sullivan on her retirement as

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 7, 11,

Camogie Section Secretary after

29 and 26. Jackpot of €8,500 not

10 years in the position.

won.

STARS OF ERIN THERE was a very special nursery

22. The three no jackpot winner

on Saturda y in Glencullen when

prizes are 1st: Georgina Davy 2nd:

Santa arrived to present all the

Sophie Cross 3rd: John McEvoy.

children with a small pre-Christ-

Next week’s lotto jackpot is €600.

mas present.

The €10 Christmas draw will take

The Under-8s and Under-9s had

place on December 17 in the Step

their Christmas party in Fitzone in

Inn. There are still a limited number

Leopardstown.

of tickets available.

Congratulations to all the juve-

Please contact any committee

niles who have had a wonder ful

members if interested in purchas-

year.

ing one.

There was no winner of the weekly lotto. Numbers drawn were 2, 6 and

Please visit www.starsoferin.com for news, reviews and updates.

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

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

CROSS-FIRE: Sweeney caught between two stools but claims European fifth P30

DECEMBER 15, 2011

CURLEY’S CRUSADE Lucan golfer on life with a new swing P29

GazetteSPORT

Annalise Murphy blitzed her way to earning Ireland an Olympic place in jig-time from the World Championships in Perth this week

Murphy all set for five-ring circus

National YC sailor lands Olympic place with breathtaking show but insists there is plenty more to come STEPHEN FINDLATER dunlaoghairesport@gazettegroup.com

ANNALISE Murphy became front-page news this week as the Rathfarnham sailor continued her amazing run of form this year to claim an Olympic berth for Ireland in the laser radial class.

Her name will now be submitted to the Olympic Council Ireland for nomination to the Irish team for the Olympics.

She secured the place, one which she is a runaway favourite to fulfill at next summer’s London Games – her discipline will take place in Weymouth – with five days to spare as produced some inspired early performances.

Last Wednesday, she was confirmed in the gold medal fleet having won the second race of the World Championships regatta in Perth as well as notching up a couple of other top-ten finishes.

It left her second overall after five races, comfort-

ably inside the top 50 cut-off for the gold medal fleet.

In this group, there were fewer than 29 nations represented, the number of Olympic qualifying places on offer from the event, meaning she was assured of a place at the Games, taking the pressure off the remainder of her campaign.

She subsequently recorded a couple of wins on day six of the championships amid classic sea breeze conditions of 15-18 knots, earning her a place in the medal race with a bronze medal still a possibility.

But a medal was not to be, as light difficult conditions made racing tough. Murphy’s lead leg was overtaken by the Dutch boat and she ended up sailing in a wind hole before finishing eighth in the race.

After the event, Murphy said there is still more to come from her and she believes there is a real possibility of pushing for a medal next year.

“After the medal race on the last day I was pretty disappointed, just because I felt I had been so close to being a bronze medallist at the worlds, then for it to slip away in the last few minutes of the race,” she said.

“Of course now, looking back, I am delighted with finishing sixth, but my expectations of myself have been raised and I know I had the potential to be a medallist at these worlds, which has given me a huge confidence boost for what is to come next year.”

Speaking about her performance, ISA Performance Director, James O’Callaghan was quick to praise the rising star.

“Finishing sixth at the World Championships is a personal best for Annalise,” he said. ”She paid a big price for a small mistake but this event carries the same pressure as the Olympics and Annalise handled the pressure incredibly well.”