Dun Laoghaire

Laoghaire GAZET TE FREE

RECYCLE THIS COPY. KEEP DUBLIN TIDY.

February 9, 2012

YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Little voices help to make a big fuss at a protest march P2

WORLD-WIDE WIN: Local tech firm

claims global IBM contest title Page 3

They’re on the ball: 2011 Dublin Sports Awards SPORTS stars, players and teams

Football: Dublin’s Nolan looks ahead to 2012 campaign Page 28

were out in force for the Dublin Gazette Newspapers 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, in conjunction with The Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley and Setanta Sports Ireland, which saw individual and team successes celebrated in style. Pictured are Garrett Marrinan, manager, the Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley; Ellen Pierce, coach of April team of the month winners, Colaiste Iosagain, and Rob Heigh, sports editor, Dublin Gazette Newspapers.

Picture: Geraldine Woods

Full Story on Page 29

Sports Awards: Gala celebration of Dublin sport at Clarion Hotel Page 29

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

Hundreds gather to discuss drill project 300 at meeting over Dublin Bay foreshore scheme

I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN

APPROXIMATELY 300 people attended a meeting last week at the Royal Marine Hotel to discuss the application for a foreshore licence by the Tony O’Reilly-owned company, Providence Resources, to drill in Dublin Bay.

The meeting was hosted by People Before Profit’s Councillor Melisa Halpin and Deputy Richard Boyd-Barrett, and gave those in attendance an opportunity to voice their concerns over the proposed drilling.

At the meeting, Cllr Halpin said she will be urging Dun

Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, on February 13, to meet with the Minister of the Environment, Phil Hogan, to ensure a public inquiry be carried out before any work takes place.

See Story on Pages 4-5 and Gallery on Pages 8-9

2 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9 February 2012

FastNews

PROTEST Marching in February

to make their point

International author, Jodi Picault, will delight DLR fans when she reads at The Pavilion

Lone Wolf author set for personal reading AUTHOR Jodi Picault will give a reading of her latest book at the Pavilion Theatre, Dun Laoghaire, on Friday, March 30, at 7.30pm.

A late addition to the Library Voices series, Picoult will read an excerpt from Lone Wolf, her 19th novel, which deals with medical and moral prerogatives.

Other novels by Picoult have become films, including My Sister’s Keeper, which starred Cameron Diaz.

Her popular appeal is world-wide, and has continued to develop since she published her first novel in 1992. Picoult lives in New Hampshire with her family.

Tickets are available from the Pavilion Theatre Box office, priced €5. See www.paviliontheatre.ie, or call 01 231 2929.

‘Offensive’ graffiti to be removed from bandstand MEMBERS of the public who have been subjected to offensive graffiti in the Blackrock area are hoping to have the “foul language” removed, according to local Independent councillor, Victor Boyhan.

Following a question raised by Cllr Boyhan at a recent council meeting, it was confirmed that arrangements are currently being made to remove the graffiti from the bandstand in Blackrock Park, where graffiti has been bother-

Joined by some young supporters, a group of protestors prepare to make their point. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

In defence of agreement I NATALIE BURKE

dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

LMOST 400 local county council workers came out in force in Dun Laoghaire last week, when a march was held in protest against recent attacks on the Croke Park Agreement.

The march began at the People’s Park in Dun Laoghaire on Friday afternoon, February 3, and continued to the town hall, where SIPTU members in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council supported the workers who provide public services

A

on a regular basis.

Commenting on the organised protest, SIPTU organiser, Conor O’Gorman, said: “It was a very successful march, and there was a great turnout with almost 400 people coming out to show their support.”

According to O’Gorman, the decision to hold the march was made by the SIPTU shop stewards representing workers in the council.

“The council workers wanted to remind people that the quality of public services, and those working to provide them, are under attack.

“Those working in the public serv-

ice are mainly low-paid, hard-working people. They are the people who grit the roads in winter, who keep the streets clean, and who keep the water flowing. It’s some of the most basic roles that people take for granted, but they provide a very important service to the community, and they want to be able to continue to do so.

“They have repeatedly shown that they are prepared to change to make these services more efficient and cost-effective. Yet, despite this, they are constantly accused of inflexibility,” said O’Gorman.

See Full Gallery Next Week

ing local residents in recent months.

“When graffiti is scribbled it’s one thing, but when graffiti has a religious, sexual or discriminatory theme to it, or uses foul language, it’s when people find it offensive,” Cllr Boyhan said to The Gazette.

“Members of the public have approached me about having it removed from the bandstand as it is offensive, and it is something they should not have to be subjected to.

“If we fail to do anything about it, we send a message that we condone it, and that’s not okay. It is anti-social behaviour, and we need to keep on top of it,” said Cllr Boyhan.

Supporters listening intently (right) to speeches at the march, which saw a considerable turn-out of concerned workers

9 February 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 3

ENTERPRISE Profitero claims prestigious IBM title

Global victory for local tech entrepreneurs THE Dun Laoghairebased pricing intelligence company, Profitero, has been named the IBM Global Entrepreneur of the Year 2012.

The highly-prestigious award was announced at the IBM Smart Camp Global Finals’ ceremony in San Francisco.

Volodymyr Pigrukh, chief executive officer and co-founder, Profitero, said: “We are honoured to be named the IBM Global Entrepreneur of the Year.

“Our solution is a natural complement to IBM’s smarter-commerce strategy. We are looking forward to working with IBM and its network of

technical experts, business partners, venture capitalists, academics and clients to capture our share of the smartercommerce opportunity.”

Profitero’s winning software crawls retail websites, culling current prices in order to educate their customers and ensure they stay on top of competition.

Competitive data By influencing highquality online competitive data at scale, Profitero capitalises profits for its customers by increasing sales.

The company is currently tracking 27.5 million products across

2,500 European retail websites.

Predictions for 2012 are for the business to grow and hit the 100-million product mark.

Winning the IBM Global Entrepreneur of the Year award will certainly increase the company’s profile enough to achieve this target.

The company now hopes to partner with IBM to expand their operations in Britain and throughout Europe.

IBM SmartCamps are specifically designed to mentor and encourage entrepreneurs to creatively innovate in their markets. Venture capitalists have been drawn

Profitero’s founders, at IBM Smart Camp, London, prior to heading off to San Francisco for the global final – and superb victory

to past participants of the scheme, to the tune of close to €50 million in investment.

The opportunities for winners of the award are truly global. Profitero has already raised €750,000 in 2011, from Delta Partners and Enterprise Ireland here at home.

Jim Corgel, general manager, entrepreneur

programs, IBM, said: “Profitero is a great example of the kind of start-up company that IBM is partnering with around the world to build a smarter planet.

“We look forward to working with Profitero to combine big data expertise with retail insights and entrepreneurial innovation to create new

smarter commerce solutions for retailers.”

The company is based at Mediacube Digital Media Incubation Centre, Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology.

It currently has 13 employees, and that looks set to increase with their burgeoning success.

COUNCIL

Proposal for a new litter plan DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has proposed to replace its Litter Management Plan 2009-2011 with a new draft plan, which has been prepared for the prevention and control of litter in the county area, setting out appropriate objectives and targets for the threeyear period, ranging from 2012 to 2014.

The council has invited members of the public, and of voluntary and representative bodies, to put forward their written submissions in relation to the newly proposed plan.

The draft plan may be reviewed on the Council’s website www.dlrcoco.ie, and copies are also available from the Environment, Culture and Community Department, County Hall, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire.

The latest date for receipt of submissions is 12pm on Tuesday, February 21.

4 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9 February 2012

GOT A STORY? EVENT Concern over Providence Resources’ TELL US ABOUT YOUR LOCAL EVENT, CELEBRATION OR FUNCTION

Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com

ENTERPRISENEWS

Groups meet to discuss drilling I BAIRBRE NI

BHRAONAIN

Showcase – Ireland’s Creative Expo!

DUN Laoghaire Rathdown was very well represented at Showcase 2012, which took place at the end of January in the RDS. In all 15 businesses from the county, representing a number of varied design disciplines, took part. Showcase – which is not open to the public – is visited by buyers from all over the world who are looking for the best of Irish design to retail in their own countries.

The County & City Enterprise Boards have always been very involved in Showcase and the balcony in the Main Hall was entirely devoted to Enterprise Board clients, and was supported with a special brochure and publicity. Four Dun Laoghaire Rathdown businesses had stands in this section – Tara Hammond of Slated, Simon Hoe of Killiney Arts, Marianne Flood – Milliner and Melanie Hand of Melanie Hand Design Jewellery.

Every year at the show, there is a section reserved for selected designers who have been chosen for the quality of their new and innovative products that are imagined, designed and made in Ireland.

Dun Laoghaire-based, Susannagh Grogan was featured in this area. Susannagh introduced her latest luxurious collection of printed handfinished silk scarves, and was delighted to receive an award further to being chosen as one of the Top 50 New Products at the show. These products were chosen by an independent panel of retailers and featured in a special display area. The photo above shows Susannagh receiving her award from Laura Magahy, Chairman of the Crafts Council of Ireland.

Well done Susannagh!

AROUND 300 peo ple attended a meeting last week at the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire, to discuss the application for a foreshore (22km) licence by the Tony O’Reilly-owned company, Providence Resources to drill in Dublin Bay. Politicians, as well as drilling interests also attended the meeting which was set up and co-hosted by People Before Profit’s councillor Melisa Halpin and Richard Boyd-Barrett, TD. Organisations such as Save Our Seafront and Protect Our Coast were also present.

Approximately 300 people were in attendance, and had a chance

to voice their concerns over the proposed drilling. Many different groups were represented, from fishermen to shop owners to private citizens, and all were in agreement that the proposed drilling so close to shore (6km) was not a good idea, and wouldn’t be tolerated in any other country and arguing that no other country has ever allowed drilling at such tight proximity.

L o c a l f i s h e r m e n ’s main concern was the negative impact a seismic survey could have on their livelihood, specifically in relation to the effect the drilling would have on shellfish.

A range of different issues were discussed, from economic benefits that may accrue from the discovery of oil, to

environmental harm from such close foreshore drilling.

A unanimous agreement was reached that a public inquiry must be held to educate the public about the implications of such licensing or tax arrangements involved.

Cllr Halpin said she will be urging Dun Laoghaire County Council on February 13, to meet with the Minister of the Environment, Phil Hogan, to ensure a public inquiry be carried out before any work takes place.

What form this inquiry takes is at the discretion of the Minister.

Cllr Halpin said that a thorough investigation of all of the risks involved, as well as the potential profit, would go a long way to allaying the anxiety of residents in Dalkey

Cllr Melisa Halpin and Cllr Huey Lewis

and the surrounding communities.

There was an anxious atmosphere at the meeting, and little by way of support of the scheme voiced on the night.

The company that lodged the licence application, Providence Resources Plc, declined the invitation to attend

the meeting, and sent a letter instead.

Last week, People Before Profit Alliance Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett urged locals to lobby the Minister for an enquiry. This was done by many locals, as well as others who said they cherished the heritage town of Dalkey and are

‘Rigorous environmental and health AN official statement from Providence Resources on their application for a licence to explore for resources in Dublin Bay

PROVIDENCE Resources has applied for a foreshore licence to explore the potential of an oil or gas prospect circa 6km off the coast of Dublin. The licence would allow for a seismic survey, a site survey and subsequent drilling of a single exploration well to investigate whether oil and/or gas is present.

This foreshore licence is being sought because

it is within 12 nautical miles of the shoreline and legislation requires that any activity (be it exploration activities, wind farms, piers, etc.), within this area requires such a licence.

Providence is currently drilling a well off the coast of Cork, but because it is outside this 12 nautical mile limit, no foreshore licence was required to be obtained.

The site and seismic surveys would likely take in the region of 15 days, followed within six months by 30 to 60 days for drilling.

Although the first exploration activities by

Providence in the area, this would be the fifth oil and gas exploration well to be drilled in Dublin Bay since the 1970s, with no commercial discovery to date.

This kind of exploration is still at a relatively early stage in the exploration process.

We require this foreshore licence and other approvals for this exploratory activity only.

Any subsequent activity would require further licensing and permitting.

The application is currently in a statutory public consultation process [This process

9 February 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 5

application for an oil and gas foreshore licence Give people a chance to discuss the issues

01/02/2012

our fears allayed that:

matter is necessitated.

Ref No MS 51/4/541

(a) The environmental impact

4. Will there be an opportunity

along the coastline will not be

later in this process for our gov-

negative.

ernment to demand more royal-

(b) That flora, fauna, fish life and

ties if the oil/gas field proves rich

I am writing to ask you to hold

dolphins will not be negatively

in hydrocarbons?

a public inquiry into the Provi-

impacted.

Finally, Minister, I am sincerely

dence Resource Application for a

(c) That if a major oil spill was to

asking that this process is

foreshore licence of Dalkey Island

take place, what organisations

transparent to the general public.

at the Kish Bank Basin under the

would be charged for clean-up?

The granting of a public enquiry

Foreshore Act 1933 Section (9).

Coast-guard? Dun Laoghaire-

will allay people’s fears and will

As an elected TD and on behalf of

Rathdown County Council?

establish facts. I do not want a

my constituents, I am seeking a

(d) My constituents and the people

repeat of what happened in Mayo

public inquiry for the following

of Ireland require clarification on

where neighbours were at war,

reasons:

the following:

businesses boycotted and where

1. People with genuine concerns

3. What revenue will the State get

the Garda Siochana, paid by the

believe that they did not have

as a return from the drilling of

tax-payer, had to be employed for

sufficient time within the 21-day

oil. The figures of 25% - 40% have

years to keep the peace.

consultation period to inform

been indicated as the Revenue Tax

themselves of the relevant facts.

Take after the company recoups

Is mise le meas,

PROVIDENCE Resources have applied for an Exploration Licence to explore the potential of an oil/gas find in an area known as the Kish Bank Basin, about 6km off the coast. The 21-day period for public submissions/ objections closed on February 2.

This application has given rise to anxiety and consternation among the people especially in the Killiney/Dalkey areas. It will naturally be a source of worry to a wide range of people in the county who are interested in marine life, tourism, fishing, health and safety issues etc.

The major cause of concern is, naturally, the proximity of the site to Dublin and the coast of Wicklow in particular in the event of an oil spillage at some future stage.

Irreparable damage could be done to a large area before any remedial action could even be initiated. While Providence would be liable to tax at a maximum rate of tax of 40% on any profits, the amount of tax they would pay is likely to be minimal for the foreseeable future, as they will be able to write off exploration costs, etc, against tax.

I have written to the Minister for the Environment asking him to initiate a public enquiry into this matter in order to give people an opportunity to have the issues discussed in an open and transparent manner.

2. I, with many constituents, need

costs but greater clarity on this

Mary Mitchell O’ Connor TD

Cllr Jim O’Dea

A letter from Cllr John Bailey, Cathaoirleach DLRC, to Minister Phil Hogan

A request for public enquiry Dear Minister,

anxious about its future integrity.

Amanda Slevin, PhD, co-author of SIPTU’s Optimising Ireland’s Oil and Gas Resources, who attended the meeting as an independent expert, said that the interest expressed by people at the meeting was very encouraging and posi-

tive.

She said it highlighted that wider issues, such as the process of resource management and potential risks, were real concerns in the community, and the meeting was an ideal platform for these issues to be discussed.

Full gallery on Pages 8&9

and safety standards form a vital part of our ethos’ ended on Thursday, February 2]. We encourage people to take part in that process. To facilitate this, we have made a range of information on the application available locally, including a non-technical summary which talks to environmental and social concerns. We have been in contact with a range of interested parties, including local residents, local businesses and local interest groups and took up an invitation to make a presentation to Dun Laoghaire Area Councillors. We have invited a number of groups and individuals to come in and meet with us to

discuss the project. We remain open to this and welcome anyone to make an appointment to do the same. We believe this approach is the best way to directly address individual concerns rather than in the format of a public meeting with many diverse and conflicting views. [This meeting was held last week] Providence is proud to be an Irish-owned and managed company that has successfully operated in the Irish offshore sector for many years. We would like to reassure all interested parties that rigorous environmental and health

and safety standards form a vital part of our ethos and detailed proposals on environmental mitigation measures and safety procedures have been submitted as part of this application.

Providence Resources also noted that, in terms of this proposed exploration, while the foreshore licence is under the remit of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in addition to that, 12 separate bodies are involved in licensing and approving the different environmental, navigational and fishing aspects of the seismic programme. Further, 23 separate

bodies are involved in licensing and approving the environmental, navigational and fishing aspects of the drilling programme. Some 16 different bodies also have to be notified throughout drilling operations. It’s a very highly regulated process. Something which has yet to be mentioned is that everything Providence does will also be within the constraints of this.

For more, see www.dcenr.gov.ie/Natural/ Petroleum+Affairs+Division/Irish+Offshore+Strategic+E nvironmental+Assessment+(IOSEA+4)/

6 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9 February 2012

VENUE A community hub and theatrical tour de force

Derby Browne enthralls diners with her spectacular performance and personal tribute to the life and music of Edith Piaf. Picture: Geraldine Woods

Cafe proves to be a tasty addition to area I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN

YVONNE and Breffni Anderson are the couple running the most exciting cafe to hit the Dun Laoghaire shorefront for many a year.

The Promenade Cafe is not just a place to grab a sandwich and a cup of coffee but a community and cultural centre for the people of Dun Laoghaire to meet and interact.

Yvonne and Breffni moved to the area six years ago and have set about revolutionising the coffee house ideal. Breffni’s family has been involved in the insurance business for over a century and his offices lead off the coffee house in a spirit of mutual interaction between the two concerns.

It’s a family company, MGA, and the cafe comes under the heading of MGA restaurants.

He is very knowledge-

Natalie performs on the accordion during a live performance at the Promenade

able about the historical connection between the insurance industry and the coffee house.

Lloyds used to conduct their business in cafe prototypes on the waterfront and deal with the merchants who came ashore and those embarking on voyages, effectively insuring their vessels and cargo. Yet neither he nor Yvonne (a former health worker and founder of an organisation caring for those with intellectual difficulties) ever ran a coffee house.

Yet this sense of the

unknown has played very nicely into their hands. They have pushed beyond traditional ideas of a cafe and integrated many diverse aspects to it. These include theatre, insurance, kids’ painting competitions, adult writing competitions and community discussion.

This Valentine’s there is a competition involving Yvonne’s brother-in-law, J Bernard O’Sullivan, who is a well-known photographer. The prize is a free Valentine Portrait Session worth €75.

Members of Dun

Laoghaire Chamber of Commerce have been incredibly helpful to the venture and Yvonne is encouraged by the general spirit of camaraderie and support the couple have enjoyed since they opened the Promenade.

“People have less money to spend in these recessionary times,” said Yvonne, “so they’re looking for something different, to feel welcomed and that people recognise them when they come in so we try offer this.”

Breffni insists the key to the coffee house’s success

is “community spirit”.

To this end, the Andersons have set up theatre shows in the evenings, and because the venue is such an interactive one for a performer, the audience is very communicative with each other too.

It’s such an unusual space for theatre that it acts as a friendship catalyst to those who experience it together.

As part of the evening’s entertainment there is, included in the ticket price, a very well received nourishing supper that patrons consume before

the show starts.

Because it’s such an intimate theatrical experience, and something most people are new to, the interaction amongst the audience is very high, as is the sense of involvement with the performer.

It all began last September and they’ve had a play or performer each month since. The first production was a local performance

by Brenda McSweeney, whom the couple asked would she like to visit the cafe with her play, Shopping in Chains.

The venue also plays host to many musical events, including, next weekend, Pat Coldrick, a classical guitarist and they quickly sold out Chanteuse Derby Browne with The Life and Music of Edith Piaf.

This last one really suits the atmosphere of the cafe as Ms Browne, in costume of the era, tells her life story as Edith Piaf and

sings while moving among the tables and interacting with the audience.

Another great mutual boon for the performers at the Promenade is that they often get more bookings from audience members and the Andersons encourage this active trade and enjoy the fact that their coffee house acts as a fulcrum for cultural exchange.

They also sell CDs by the musical performers in the cafe.

People really appreciate the value on offer at the Promenade as it offers a cultural night out with supper for €30 or €35.

“Most people like to know what they’re spending today,” said Yvonne, and this great all-in deal is a comfort to those who don’t have as much disposable cash as they had but wish to have a great night out and experience something cultural.

9 February 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 7

ARTS Prestigious Godot company coming to town

Beckett X 3 all set for its Pavilion show dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

THE prestigious Godot Company London is coming to the Pavilion Theatre in February with a three-play programme of Beckett, entitled, Beckett X 3.

The company is on a two week-long national tour of Ireland with their three-tiered show, and Dun Laoghaire’s Pavilion is set to welcome the company back to its stage.

Beckett X 3 comprises three plays: That Time (after years in Britain, an Irish labourer looks back on his earlier life and his disappointing career before he dies); Rough for Theatre II (two mysterious bureaucrats discuss the life history of a potential suicide), and Rockaby (based on the inner thoughts of a woman, sitting in her mother’s rocking chair, as death approaches).

Last week, Beckett X 3 played to a sold-out audience in The Everyman Palace Theatre, Cork, in what was described as “a moving finale to a thought-provoking show”.

There will be a postshow question and answer session after each

performance.

The Pavilion has always enjoyed a strong relationship with The Godot Company London since the group first toured Ireland in 2006.

The theatre has played host to all of the company’s Irish productions – Waiting for Godot (2006), Endgame (2009) and the present Beckett X 3.

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

‘Catch the programme of Godot’s works at 8pm at the Pavilion Theatre on February 10’ --------------------------

The Godot Company was established in 2003

by John Calder, Beckett’s publisher and friend, and actor, Peter Marinker.

Calder is an uncompromising character and was involved in many a legal dispute over the avant-garde nature of the literature he published in the Fifties and Sixties.

He has been quoted as deriding the concept of art that persists today where, he says, anything becomes art once it’s termed art, and that people accept this automatic

nonsense rather than question it.

Peter Marinker is a well-established and renowned actor. He has appeared on screen and stage for many years, and has worked as dialogue advisor on several films

by John Boorman and Wolfgang Petersen.

The founding partnership is described as ideally balanced in knowledge and technique.

As for the actors, Jim McManus’ plaudits include taking the lead in The Mousetrap, by Agatha Christie, in 2010, which enjoyed the longest run of any production in London’s West End. Colette Kelly, who hails from Dublin, performed in the first production of Hair. Oengus MacNamara was extolled as Vladimir in the Godot Company’s production of Waiting for Godot.

He has acted in many of Shakespeare’s plays, as well as appearing on TV’s Blackadder, and The Bill.

Catch the programme of Godot’s works at 8pm at the Pavilion Theatre on Friday, February 10, with tickets priced €17/€15.

Phone the Box Office at 01 231 2929, or see www. paviliontheatre.ie.

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SHOP LOCALLY CALL THE GAZETTE ON

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I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN

On the ball: ‘Our guide to see UEFA Euro 2012 in Poznan’

TRAVEL PAGE 22 A three-play programme of Beckett’s work will delight at the Pavilion Theatre

8 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9 February 2012

EVENT Public meeting to address concerns over proposed

Protect Dublin Bay meeting public meeting was called recently at the Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire, to address the call for a public inquiry in respect to the serious environmental and public consultation concerns affecting the Providence Resources Application for an Oil and Gas Foreshore Licence. The Protect Dublin Bay campaign believes this application and subsequent decisions will affect all the

A

Councillor Jane Dillon-Byrne and Trish Haugh

Cllr Melisa Halpin and Cllr Huey Lewis

communities off the Dublin Bay, South Dublin and Wicklow coastline. The meeting was attended by a few hundred concerned residents. Co-hosted by Cllr Melisa Halpin, the emphasis was on local opinion.

Politicians attending included Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD, Richard Boyd Barrett TD, Cathaoirleach Cllr John Bailey, Cllr Niamh Bhreatnach, Cllr Jane Dillon-Byrne, Cllr Huey Lewis and Tom Kivlehan.

Cllr Niamh Bhreatnach and Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD . Pictures: Geraldine Woods

Amanda Slevin and Richard Boyd Barrett TD

9 February 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9

off-shore oil drilling off Dalkey Island

The meeting was well attended

Juno Moore and Jade Travers

Cllr Tom Kivlehan

Madelyn Chapman and Cara Campbell

Warren Fisher

Speaker, Veronica Heywood

10 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9 February 2012

FASHION Dare To Wear Red show at Dundrum Town Centre

Pippa O’Connor and Roz Purcell

Little Jude was having fun, hanging out with Sarah McGovern and Lisa Fitzpatrick at Dundrum Town Centre

Red-dily confident to update their look ADIES looked red-splendent when they turned out for a Kellogg’s Special K Dare To Wear Red fashion show in Dundrum Town Centre recently, featuring a wide selection of clothes available at the centre.

Held at Frangos World Cuisine, the Dare To Wear Red fashion show

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was styled by Lisa Fitzpatrick, with a number of well-known models in attendance to help highlight some key looks for spring/summer, following which guests were treated to goodie bags, bubbly and free mini manicures.

The show was staged by Kellogg’s Special K with the aim of giving local

Niamh McCarthy and Lisa Fitzpatrick

Niamh McCarthy and Kate Sugrue

women the confidence to wear red every day. This follows a recent survey carried out by the brand, indicating that 60% of 20-something Irish women associate the colour red with confidence, yet 89% wish they had more confidence, while 92% said they would love help to overhaul their wardrobe.

Donna Byrne and Lorna Cristiona Aston, Tara O’Farrell and Hannah Devane

Weightman

Ruth Hughes and Paula McCarthy

9 February 2012 GAZETTE 11

GazetteFITNESS FITNESS

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the training process and choose the right training package from the beginning.

Remember, to achieve your body transformation goal, it is when you successfully prepare, that you prepare for success.

Know how training, food and mindset will affect your goal and help you achieve it.

Temple Training begins a new lifestyle and nutri-

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

‘The importance of what you consume should not be underestimated. There are many misconceptions about what constitutes a healthy diet’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

tion workshop in February. This “Complete Lifestyle System” will empower you to “attain a lean body, healthy mind and an abundance of

energy for life”.

A lifestyle and nutrition course begins on Tuesday, February 21, at 8pm in the Le Cheile Community Centre,

Donnycarney. Gazette readers receive a discounted rate of €140 for the seven-week course (usually €165). Visit us www.templetraining.ie

12 GAZETTE 9 February 2012

Gazette Contacts

THEATRE Farrell’s play back at the Abbey

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

Managing Director: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com

Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com

Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com

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News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com

Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com

Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com

Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com

Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette.

The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Phelim Drew and Marion O’Dwyer star in Bookworms

Popular play makes a return I BAIRBRE NI

BHRAONAIN

THE Abbey T heatre sees the return of Bookworms, by Bernard Farrell, on Thursday, February 9.

It is back by popular demand and was first premiered at the Abbey in 2010.

The Abbey has a new, life-extending policy regarding plays it has commissioned for itself.

Previous revivals include The Seafarrer, by Conor McPherson; Terminus, by Mark O’Rowe, and The Playboy of the

Western World, in a new version, by Bisi Adigun and Roddy Doyle.

To that end Bookworms is back for a fiveweek run.

Bookworms is Bernard Farrell’s 21st play and is described as “a laugh-a-minute romp”.

The Abbey has a long history and very strong relationship with the playwright stretching back to 1982 when the Abbey first produced his play, I Do Not Like Thee, Dr Fell.

Subsequent to this, the national theatre has staged 11 world

premieres of this Irish playwright’s work.

T hose involved in the current production are no strangers to the Abbey.

Jim Culleton, of Fishamble, directs the cast of the New Play Company and Donna Dent.

The story of Bookworms is set on the night of a monthly book club meeting.

T he hostess, however, proceeds to set her sights on expanding the experience by inviting all of the members’ husbands. Her dreams

of perfection, classical debate and elegant canape nibbling are soon annihilated as the personal lives of the couples are exposed.

What transpires is an unravelling of decorum more shocking and revelatory than any novel up for possible discussion.

Jim Culleton does a great job by giving such a cleverly, humorous play the deft treatment it deserves. The cast includes Donna Dent, Liz Fitzgibbon, Louis Lovett, Michael Glen Murphy and Marion O’Dwyer.

9 February 2012 GAZETTE 13

CHARITY: CALL FOR ANY UNWANTED INSTRUMENTS

CHILDREN

Call for Texaco artists

Give kids a musical goal THE Musical Youth Foundation children’s charity is asking people to help it in its mission to provide every child on the island of Ireland with access to a musical education by donating any old, unused or even damaged musical instruments they have.

As part of a new project designed to raise awareness for the life-changing benefits of music education, and the work the Musical Youth Foundation is doing, the charity hopes people will dig out old, unused, or even broken, instruments that are cluttering up attics, garages and other storage spaces in order to donate them to the charity.

The charity’s founder and CEO, Chris Maher, says: “There are hundreds, if not thousands, of old, unused and unwanted instruments all over the country, and we’re ask-

ing people to help us give every child on the island of Ireland the opportunity to access music education by supporting our call for instruments.”

He said: “We promise to find new homes for all instruments donated, and everyone who donates will be invited to a special, topsecret event taking place as part of the sixth annual Dublin City Soul Festival, from May 24-27.”

Musical Youth Foundation provides instruments, weekly tuition, practise sessions and supporting workshops in live performance, including singing and songwriting as part of its “guitars for kids” programme, which is running in local community centres and schools in Dublin.

If you have an instrument that you would like to donate, email saoirse@ soul.ie.

Turn to them: People in Dublin the largest group availing of a mental support website THEIR cardboard model laptop is only of

use for publicising their service, but, luckily, the online mental health support offered by brothers Oisin and Diarmuid Scollard, and their website, Turn2Me.org, is a much sturdier affair, helping to support thousands of people across Ireland with its services.

The Scollards were promoting the significant increase in the number of users on their site over the past six months, with its latest user figures revealing that membership of Turn2me has increased by 51% over the past

six months – the site now has 3,000 unique visits per month – which includes almost 29,000 visits to the website from Dublin in 2011, comprising the greatest proportion of users visiting the site.

The Turn2me website is staffed by 30 moderators, who comprise a mix of people with professional psychology training, and others who bring the benefit of their life experience, with visitors to the website able to access support forums, group support, one-to-one counselling, and a wide range of information.

THE search is under way to find the young students who will win awards in this year’s Texaco Children’s Art Competition, in this, the 38th year of the contest.

Brochures setting out details of the competition have been sent to all primary and second-level schools throughout Co Dublin, with the closing date for entries Friday, February 24.

Copies of the brochure are also available through Texaco service stations, and online at www.texacochildrensart.com.

Judging will take place throughout March, and winners will be announced in mid-April, with prize-giving to follow in mid-May. Annually, some 30,000 students compete for the 161 top prizes awarded across seven age categories, including one exclusively devoted to special needs students.

SPRING...

...YOUR BUSINESS INTO GROWTH ADVERTISE & WATCH YOUR BUSINESS GROW WITH THE GAZETTE

CALL US NOW ON 60 10 240

14 GAZETTE 9 February 2012

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY Beauty is at the heart of it all at Karora GIVE more heart this month by being mindful of how your tanning regime can help the Irish Heart Foundation. Irish beauty brand, Karora, is donating €2 to the Irish Heart Foundation from every product sold during February. Shop online at www.karoracosmetics.com or find the product in McCabes Pharmacy Dundrum, Unicare pharmacies and select salons nationwide. For participating salons and pharmacies supporting the IHF campaign call 01-9022333

A smoky, sultry look for Valentine’s I LAURA WEBB

IT only comes around once a year, and even though many think l’amour has been overshadowed by cheesy cards and overpriced flowers, it still hasn’t stopped us from wanting to look our best on Cupid’s busy day.

Be on trend this February and get the best Valentine’s Day look, courtesy of Avon’s limited addition Smoke and Mirrors collection. The fresh tones of this collection radiate that new inlove glow that many feel

around this time of year.

Not only will this look get you through Valentine’s Day, but it’s going to big this Spring/Summer season.

“Smouldering greys and subtle apricots are big news this season.

Make a smoky eye in dusky-skied tones your secret weapon, to take your look from sunrise to sunset in just a stroke and a smudge,” commented Liz Pugh, Avon’s professional make-up artist.

To achieve the spring look this February use SuperShock gel eyeliner (€8). This super-soft for-

mula is Avon’s best selling gel eyeliner and is available in two limited edition spring-inspired shades – Blackberry and Golden Fawn. The gorgeous tones leave an intense colour finish that lasts all day.

Use Avon’s True Colour limited edition Smoke and Mirrors and Myster y Eyeshadow Quad (€11) to create a smouldering, smoky eye.

Pucker up for the Valentine’s Day kiss with help from Ultra Colour Rich Lipstick (€9). The fresh, spring look is floral-inspired with hues of apricot, nude and lilac making lips naturally pretty. This lipstick contains jojoba and vitamin

Avon’s limited addition Smoke and Mirrors collection

E leaving lips feeling fully hydrated and moisturised.

Nails should also be treated with care by using Nailwear Pro Nail Enamel (€8), available in Star and Apricot Mystery. Giving salon quality results, this nail varnish

lasts for up to 10 days, with its fortified acrylic for strength and protection, and high-gloss formula.

More information about Avon can be found at www.avon.ie. Visit Avon Ireland’s Facebook page at www.facebook.

com/Avonie. Avon product lines include Avon make-up, Avon fragrance, ANEW skincare, Skin So Soft and Advance Techniques. Avon also sells an extensive range of wellbeing products, jewellery, lingerie, accessories and gifts.

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240

R1

9 February 2012 GAZETTE 15

16 GAZETTE 9 February 2011

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: LACK OF EXERCISE CAN CAUSE STUNTED GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

Best care for your pocket-sized pets HANDBAG dogs, the once must-have accessory for many a fickle, fake tanned, gel-nailwearing celebrity are becoming so last season dahling, it now appears many of Ireland’s fashionistas, like the rest of Europe, are bucking the trend, aping the likes of Paris Hilton and ditching the pocket-sized pooches in favour of, oh, well, who cares. The point is, these dogs are being dumped.

That means animal shelters like the Dublin SPCA are being left to pick up the pieces… literally. I wonder, does Ms Hilton et al, realise they’re fuelling this phenomenon? If so, would they care?

Once seen donning dia-

mond-studded style collars and little pink sweaters, these cutsie-pie dogs are no longer the canine companion of choice for Ladies who Launch.

No more the favourite novelty accessory for almost anyone who owns a fake Dolce and Gabbana or Gucci handbag or, sorry, dog carrier, the brutal irony of it all is these poor animals look and smell like dogs but don’t act like dogs because they, er, don’t know that they actually are dogs.

Let me explain.

Tea-cup dogs come into the rescue shelter not knowing how to walk, act or behave like a dog, in short, they’re lacking in doggy skills.

Sure who could blame the poor things; they’ve

Chihuahua

spent their lives sitting in handbags or sleeping on sofas, never having been walked or trained or fed an appropriate diet, or even been given the basic veterinary care they deserve.

Did you know that lack of exercise can cause stunted growth and devel-

opment in your dog and mollycoddling them too much can result in behavioural problems?

Every week I come into contact with pet parents who’ve paid hundreds for these throwaway, novelty pets only to complain when they’ve to cough up the meagre, highly afford-

able cost for their subsidised veterinary care; or who baulk at the thought of walking, socialising or training them.

So why is this happening?

Well, it’s a question of economics you see – a supply and demand situation.

Not by reputable, registered breeders I hasten to add, they are not the cause of this problem, but by back street puppy farmers and the people who do business with them.

I am certain that if these people were aware of the facts then surely they wouldn’t touch them with a barge pole.

Then again, maybe I’m wrong, I mean one lady told me, (as I stood in my

Dublin SPCA uniform) that she got rid of her dog because she had re-decorated the house and the animal didn’t fit in with her colour scheme.

So, for those of you who’ve bought a tea-cup dog, here’s a few basic tips in order to provide them with the best possible care, specific to their breeds’ needs.

• Exercise every day.

This breed has quick bursts of energy so short walks are best.

• Provide a diet specific for her breed. Consult your vet for advice.

• Socialise early with children and other dogs.

• Use a body harness rather than a lead to protect their delicate neck. It will also help to prevent damage to the trachea

and soft palate.

• Pet her often; this breed needs lots of attention.

• When bathing take care not to get water in her ears, this can cause infections. Brush long-haired Chihuahuas daily.

• This breed may suffer from the following: Weak knees, colds, corneal dryness, secondary glaucoma • Check with your breeder to see what/ if at all any, screening has been carried out for these health problems.

A good breeder will not mind you asking this question.

For more

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

9 February 2012 GAZETTE 17

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC ROCK REPORT: FAMILIAR NAMES ARE COMING BACK

New year, old talents I DEE WOODS

HAPPY Chinese New Year! So 2012 is the Year of the Dragon, and it’s breathing new life into some classic artists.

Van Halen and Bruce Springsteen have new albums, and we can also look forward to new music from Alice In Chains, AC/DC and Meatloaf, to name but a few.

In suppor t of the wo r l d w i d e O c c u p y movement, keep an eye out for the “Occupy This” album. A host of famous voc al i sts, i ncl u d i ng David Crosby, Graham Nash and Debbie Harry, are joining together to put the movement on the map.

New music is always good, but I’m also looking forward to seeing some of the bands we thought we’d never see again (well, almost).

The Aussie Pink Floyd play the Olympia at the end of this month, and if you think cover bands

are just well-dressed karaoke singers, did you know Pink Floyd frontman Dave Gilmour asked Aussie Pink Floyd to play his wedding?

Not only that, but Nick Mason said the cover band were “probably better than we were”?

Nuff said!

And if you’re excited about The Doors’ last --------------------------

‘New music is always good, but I’m also looking forward to seeing some of the bands we thought we’d never see again’ --------------------------

album, LA Woman, being reissued for its 40th anniversary this year, then get along to The Doors Alive at The Academy in March.

The lads called into the Nova studios when

Super-news as Dublin radio goes super-Nova DUBLIN-based broadcaster Radio Nova has surged ahead in the latest JNLR radio ratings, passing out some of its major competitors in key demographics for the first time.

The latest ratings show that the station has consolidated an 11% weekly and 6% daily reach in the Greater Dublin area after only 16 months on air.

CEO, Kevin Branigan, said: “We’ve now overtaken major competitors 2FM, Today FM, 98FM and Q102 in key demographics in the city, and we now have more than half the daily audience of 98FM. This is our fifth JNLR survey since we launched and it is by far our best yet; we’ve shown strong continued growth in our 25-54 demographic.

“In addition to major gains in ABC1s and Housekeepers, we have passed out 2FM in 25-34s, Q102 in 25-34s and Today FM in 15-34s daily in Dublin – a terrific result for a radio station that has been on air less than 18 months.

“Nova offers a unique mix of some of the best guitar songs every made and well-known on-air personalities - and, judging from these figures, we are clearly striking a chord with listeners in Dublin and the commuter belt,” said Branigan.

they played the Academy last year. Lead singer, Willie, is a lovely, sof t-spoken Scottish lad who turns into a leather pants-wearing sex god (aka Jim Morrison) when on stage, and sounds uncannily like him too!

I can’t wait to check out these bands, if only to be reminded of the good old days...you know – when if you were reading about a worldwide economic disaster, a crash or a bond you were probably holding an Ian Fleming novel!

The Australian Pink Floyd are bringing their amazing show to the Olympia

18 GAZETTE 9 February 2012

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs GET MORE FUN AND VALUE WITH THE MAZDA2: EVERYBODY needs a little more fun in their lives, but we recognise the need for more value, too. The good news for drivers is that Mazda is helping their customers out with making the Mazda2 incredibly easy to afford.

During February and March, Mazda is offering the Mazda2 from only €13,495.

The Mazda2 represents some of the best value for money in the segment, in terms of low retail price and generous levels of standard equipment.

In addition, Mazda Ireland is running a promotion where one lucky customer who purchases a new Mazda during February and March will win the retail price of their car back in cash.

Mazda is also offering low-rate finance of just 5.9% with a low deposit of only 20% up to a period of four years through Mazda Finance.

From its launch, the Mazda2 has been ground-breaking. It set the benchmark for lightweight construction, helping the Mazda2 to scoop the World Car of the Year award. Less weight means more fun, with a supple chassis that will put a smile on any driver’s face.

In Ireland, the best-selling Mazda2 Sensu model now costs only €14,995.

Standard equipment includes 15” alloy wheels, air conditioning, leather steering wheel and gear knob, and side and curtain airbags.

Mercedes-Benz main dealer, Chris Germaine, from Grange Motors, Deansgrange, pictured giving thumbs up to the new Mercedes-Benz B-Class which has just arrived on the Irish market

Quantum leap for B-Class I CORMAC CURTIS

Motoring Correspondent

MERCEDES have begun their roll-out of three new models being introduced in 2012, and the new B-Class can now be seen at Irish dealer showrooms.

The new M-Class and SL follow in March/April, but the B-Class is the larger of their two compact models, fitting into the range ahead of the wellknown A-Class.

Said to represent “a quantum leap” in the compact class given its billing as the first model change in their history

to have so many new features introduced at one time, it comes on the market with a vastly improved range of standard specifications and an entry-level price that Mercedes-Benz says is 11% lower than the model it replaces.

Amongst its most striking aspects are its reduced height, lower centre of gravity, generous interior space and high standard of safety. Its redesigned electromechanical steering, new four-link rear axle and upgraded electronic stability system make it, what MercedesBenz says is, “fascinatingly agile” without cost

in comfort terms.

Arguably, its most impressive selling point and the feature most likely to appeal to potential B-Class buyers will be its high quality and spacious interior. Seats are more upright and set lower to the road with the result that headroom has been improved. Its extra interior spaciousness can be made more valuable by an optional feature that allows the rear seats to be adjusted forwards/backwards to facilitate the carriage of bulky items.

In its driving and handling characteristics, the

new B-Class outshines its predecessor. An optional lower sports suspension and direct-steer system emphasise its sporty character. Outstanding aerodynamics help to deliver low fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions, while a standard item on all B-Class models is an ECO start/ stop function.

In Ireland, the model likely to account for the bulk of B-Class sales is the 109bhp entry-level B180 CDI which comes on the market at €29,330 (ex works) with road tax of €160 per annum. A second diesel, also with four-

cylinder, common rail, direct-injection, is a 2.0litre/136bhp unit whose price will be announced later.

In petrol form, the first version to go on sale is the 122bhp B180BlueEFFICIENCY selling at €29,890 (ex works) with road tax of €225 per annum. A 2.0litre/156bhp BlueEFFICIENCY version will be added to the range at a later date, the price of which will be announced at the time.

Driving the new B-Class is a completely new six-speed manual transmission, notable for

its extremely easy gear change and low shift forces. Also available as an option is a 7G dual-clutch transmission system that combines the comfort of an automatic with the efficiency of a manual.

Described by their sales manager, Ciaran Allen, as a car that “ticks all the boxes”, its lower price, reduced running costs, interior spaciousness and exceptional range of comfort and safety features are elements he believes come together to give the B-Class a wide appeal amongst those seeking to match prestige to practicality.

Is parallel parking more stressful than going to the dentist?

It’s arguably the most frustrating part of the driving experience, parallel parking, and it has the potential to drive even the most level-headed motorist around the bend.

Enter Ford’s Active Park Assist. With more than 100,000 cars having been ordered with this feature, the appetite for this kind of technology speaks for

itself.

Ford has now tripled production levels for the technology, which calculates the optimal steering angle and quickly steers the vehicle hands-free into a parking spot.

“Ford Active Park Assist takes all the stress out of parking,” said Ford engineer Kay Müller. “At the touch of a button, it

enables you to park in the smallest of spaces, while at the same time reducing the risk of accidental damage to your vehicle and those surrounding it.”

A total of 102,460 European customers have specified Active Park Assist since it was introduced on the new C-MAX and Grand C-MAX at the end of 2010, with one-in-three buyers speci-

fying it on those cars alone. A further one-in-five have ordered it on the new Ford Focus, which went on sale last year.

A third of European drivers surveyed

by Ford last year said they struggled to parallel park. Many confessed to finding it more stressful than a trip to the dentist.

9 February 2012 GAZETTE 19

Gazetteh Valentines

20 GAZETTE 9 February 2012

RETAIL: AVOID ANY HEARTACHE OVER THE SPECIAL DAY’S COST

You could share a romantic movie treat at Brooks

Share a romantic film stay at Brooks Hotel BROOKS Hotel in the heart of Dublin has a range of Valentine offers for couples – with its romantic movie offering in the Drury Street hotel’s 26-seater private cinema just one of a number of notable features at the hotel.

This is just one feature of a number of special Valentine packages, with others including such delights as a range of overnight and two-night packages that include the chefs’ signature chocolate treats and Prosecco on arrival, a complimentary room upgrade, a rose petal bed, and dinner in Francesca’s restaurant.

However, the cinema feature stands out as a special Valentine’s treat, and is exclusive to diners on Valentine’s night, with the movie a complimentary treat for the first 26 guest bookings – and with dinner and the cinema available for €39.95 per person. For further details, and package info, see www.brookshotel.ie, or phone 01 670 4000.

Bake to your heart’s content with M&S IT’S said that the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, with Marks & Spencer taking this advice to prepare a range of offers that won’t bust the budget, and let you bake to your heart’s content.

The M&S range of Valentine’s wares are too tempting to pass up, providing some wonderful ways to help cook up a delicious treat for your loved one (or even for yourself).

12 Mini Heart Silicone

Le Creuset Heart

Cases, €7

Casserole dish, €47.50

Heart Springform Cake Pan, €10

Hearts Mixing Bowl, €27

Get a Lidl bit of help for a wonderful time LIDL has been busy preparing for St Valentine’s Day with a wide range of special offers, all designed to complement the special mood, but without any heartbreaking cost.

Whether preparing for an unforgettable homecooked meal, or looking for the perfect gift to show you care, Lidl stores are stocking up with just what you need.

For starters, look no further than Lidl for flowers, with its luxury deluxe grand prix roses. Sourced from Westland, in south Holland, which is famous for its greenhouses and mastery of all floral horticultural skills, the deluxe grand prix roses sport large flower heads and are, say Lidl, typically the heaviest and highestquality Dutch roses available on the market.

Howe ve r, t h e s e delightful roses are just part of Lidl’s Valentine

range, with other flowers including valentine tulips, luxury oriental lillies, luxury bouquets, the classic arrangement of a dozen red roses and, from Saturday, February 11, a single red rose, with prices starting from €2.99.

Celebrate the romance of the day with a sparkling champagne, with Lidl’s Comte de Brismand Champagne Brut, available for €12.99 (Super Saturday offer on Saturday, February 11). A special pink Caca – the Freixenet Cava Brut Rose – is available for €9.99.

With chocolate proving a delicious partner for champagne, make a perfect match with Lidl’s luxury brand, JD Gross, and Belgian Chocolate Sea Shells for €1.49 (also on Saturday, February 11).

Looking to sniff out a special offer? Lidl’s scentsational fragrance, Sud-

Roz Purcell and Kevin McLaughlin fill up with

denly Madame Glamour, with citrus and floral notes incorporating bergamot and jasmine, has topped blind tests carried out on the Tom Dunne Show, Newstalk and Ray D’Arcy Show, Today FM – with this remarkable level of quality available at just €3.49.

Other gifts include Valentine’s wrapping paper,

Lidl’s wares before February 14

for €1.49; heart- and roseshaped baking moulds, for €4.99; a satin negligee, for €5.99, and Valentine’s stay-up tights, for €2.99.

Last, but not least, bone up on your cooking skills with a delicious steak, with all the ingredients for a simple, yet delicious, deluxe Angus striploin steak recipe, with wilted spinach and a porcini

mushroom and garlic cream sauce, and with all ingredients available from your local Lidl store to provide a restaurantquality meal for under €24.

For these, and other special Lidl Valentine’s in-store offers, see www. lidl.ie, www.facebook. com/lidlireland or visit your nearest Lidl store.

PAMPERING: MAKE-UP TREATS TO LOOK YOUR BEST

Star treatment at LA Academy “ROSES are red, and violets are blue. Come to LA Make-Up Academy, and we will look after you!”

So says the well-known leading make-up academy, based on Chatham Street, Dublin 2, which is busy preparing for Cupid’s arrival with a range of lovely offers.

For this Valentine’s Day, ladies are invited to give themselves the pampering they deserve, with the academy marrying all of Cupid’s ideas of love to create unique packages that are designed to cater for all Valentines needs.

LA Academy’s “Love to Me” Valentine’s packages includes everything a girl could desire, such as rouge-red lips, sultry

eyes and luscious locks to make their Valentine’s Day perfect.

All of these pampering packages to look your best come with five-star treatment, such as sipping on a glass of bubbly and availing of delicious nibbles in the LA lounge, in preparation for an unforgettable experience.

Packages A number of packages and options are on offer, such as the Love To Me package, preparing you for your big night out with sultry eyes and lashes to flutter, coupled with devilishly red lips, for €35.

Alternatively, T he

Secret Sweetheart package, featues smouldering smoky eyes with individual or strip lashes and a luxurious pout.

And, for an unforgettable entrance, you could go for bouncy, waved Brigitte Bardot-style hair, for just €45.

These glamorous offers are for anyone who is dear to you, or would be ideal as a treat for yourself – after all, you deserve it, and you deserve the LA Make-Up Academy five-star treatment.

For further information, contact LA MakeUp Academy on 01 675 1999, or visit w w w. lamakeupacademy.com.

LA Academy has some special Valentine packages to draw you in, including sultry eyes and luscious locks

9 February 2012 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Mark McGarvey, of cheapstorage.ie

Cheap storage with priceless service

years left, that’s SAVING € 40,000 a year! While property bargains currently abound, there is enormous hassle from finding tenants, continuous repairs, rent reduction requests and slow payments. Add the fact that interest rates eventually can only go one way – UP. Do you really want this hassle? You can earn 5.04% gross each year by just placing it on deposit… hassle-free. Also, one lender would deduct € 36,000 from your annual income to fund your family needs – that leaves € 4,000 income availability which will get you a loan of precisely € 18,000. That’s an expensive doll house ! That € 40,000 will act as a handy Rainy Day Fund – my recommendation is that you should have at least three to six months annual income in a RDF for emergencies, sudden loss of income or that investment opportunity.

The Money Doctor’s Tip of the Week BUDGETING

Mark McGarvey, of cheapstorage.ie

on business development and management end of things.

yourself that you would like to set the record straight on?

A: I think one of my best traits,

Q: Have you achieved anything that you once thought you could not pull off?

A: Starting up business during

Q: What music/pictures/ movies do you have on your iPod/iPad? A: The National, Bruce Spring-

the height of the recession was difficult and there were times when I was worried, but, with hard work and dedication, we got our name out there and business is now booming.

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: A variety of Irish businesses.

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Having the opportunity to develop my own ideas and the ability to challenge myself daily.

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

A: As more work comes in, I need to delegate the operational side of the business to others so I can focus more

work next year. Peter – Churchtown D 14

– source : LV Insurance ) so, if you have 25 working

counts, so lots of paper work.

two years ago.

pre-school, but she may look for part-time

( from birth to completion of third-level education

nese takeaway

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: I set up cheapstorage.ie over

does not work financially, as the children are

you are looking at close to € 1,000,000 to rear them

in business and personally, is that I’m an honest guy, so I really would have no need to.

Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed?

A: A few, when I was teenager.

annum, am married with four children. My wife

number one asset and with those four children,

Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be?

A: Doing my month-end ac-

chicken balls.

now as an investment ? I earn € 50,000 per

kids and a … to quote Kenny Rogers. Income is your

Q: What was your first job?

A: A kitchen porter in a ChiQ: And your first pay cheque?

A: Thirty pounds and a bag of

ings of € 40,000. Should I buy another property

A – Let us look at the facts – married, four hungry

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

A: A footballer.

Q – I have paid off my mortgage and have sav-

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Soccer mainly, started

steen, Tom Petty, Arcade Fire, Johnny Cash and lots of 80’s music.

Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update?

A: A picture I put up of Blar-

watching a bit of MMA recently.

ney Castle on a trip to Cork.

Q: What sport can you play?

A: I currently play for Mount

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Anything without mayon-

do you own?

A: Six. Q: What habits would you like to lose?

A: None, I think, but my wife would like me to tidy up more!

Q: At the moment, what are you looking forward to?

A: A number of good friends of ours are getting married this year, so I am looking forward to celebrating with all of them.

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Food poisoning in Thailand, so that wasn’t nice.

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: I’d like to travel around Canada and do lots of outdoor activities.

naise, with the company of my family and friends!

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Professional footballer

band called The National.

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: In antique shops.

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

A: Relax and travel with my

Q: Is there anything about

Q: How many pairs of shoes

wife.

Merrion FC.

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

A: Music, and it has to be a

Only 45% of people in a recent survey stated they had completed an annual household budget exercise. One of the most important chores at the start of any year should be the completion of such budgets. Only when you know what your expenditure is can you plan on the surplus ( or deficit ! ), or even ask those two important questions 1. Do I need this item of expenditure ?

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Contact John with your money questions at

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

146,000* PEOPLE IN DUBLIN READ OUR PAPERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

MARK was born in Stillorgan, the youngest in a family of six, and spent most of his early years playing sports, especially football. He attended Oatlands College in Stillorgan and received his third-level qualifications in business and computers.

After college, he developed his sales skills in the telecommunications industry in Dublin and later moved to Sydney, Australia, where he headed up teams of telesales agents.This is where he really began to develop his flair for management and entrepreneurship.

Mark decided to return home to Ireland in 2010 to take over the directorship of his family warehousing business and opportunity arose when two of his units became available. Rather than pursue the route of finding new tenants during the global recession, Mark decided to use these offices and warehouses to start his own business and, from this, cheapstorage.ie was born.

The company has recently expanded into a removals service, which offers customers an extra security knowing that their goods will be handled with care and consideration and, of course, offering that personal touch throughout the entire storage process.

In 2012, Mark plans to expand the business more by offering a service to and from the UK, and also expanding into national wide storage units. In the past two years, Mark and his company have seen exceptional growth during this economic downturn, yet has not compromised his high standards of customer loyalty and service.

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22 GAZETTE 9 February 2012

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Abbey Travel launch new Over 50s’ brochures

ABBEY Travel has just launched two new brochures for the Over 50s’ market for 2012 – Portugal for Over 50s’ and Canary Islands for Over 50s.

In these brochures, you will find great value seven- and 14-night packages to popular hotels in the Algarve, Lisbon Coast, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote.

Seven night packages start from €499 per person.

Direct flights and airport transfers, seven- or 14-nights hotel accommodation, B and B basis in Portugal and half board basis in Canary Islands and local representation is all included.

Abbey Travel also offers holidays for Over 50s to popular resorts in Spain, including Costa del Sol, Catalan Coast and Majorca and a range of walking and cycling holidays in their Adventure Holidays for Over 50s’ brochure.

Call Abbey Travel on 01 804 7100 or visit www.abbeytravel.ie for more information.

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

Cheer on the boys in green when they take on Croatia at the spectacular Stadion Miejski in vibrant Poznan

Making your UEFA Euro 2012 dreams come true ARE you a diehard soccer fan dreaming of following Ireland to the UEFA Euro 2012 championship? If so, Thompson Sport can make your dreams come true.

As one of two licensed tour operators in Ireland, Thompson Sport are in a great position to guarantee a match ticket. By booking this package, this means you have been assigned a ticket by UEFA and have a guaranteed right to purchase. Once you secure your travel package with Thompson, UEFA will contact you directly to take payment for the face-value of your ticket. This means you’ll be getting your ticket sent direct to your home address from UEFA. Ireland V Croatia

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240

You will depart from Dublin for Poznan on Saturday, June 9, the day before the match. Experience the thrill of the build-up to the big match.

Then cheer on the boys in green as they take on Croatia at the spectacular Stadion Miejski in vibrant Poznan.

Stay at the three-star Polonez Hotel from €1,549pp, which is superbly located in the centre of Poznan where you can explore the sights and sounds of everything Poznan has to offer.

Price includes access to a licensed match ticket through UEFA, plus three nights accommodation, return flights from Dublin Airport and all transfers. You will also have the services of a Thomson Sport host with a local representative for the duration of your trip to make sure things run smoothly.

Travel from June 9 to June 12.

Alternatively, stay at the three-star HP Park Hotel from €1,699pp. This hotel is located along the picturesque Malta Lake shore in Poznan, with

an artificial ski slope, cycle track and luge track within walking distance and plenty of outdoor space to explore.

Ireland V Spain

There will be nothing quite like the electric atmosphere in the PGE Arena, where Ireland meet defending European and World Champions Spain. The excitement will begin on your daytime flight from Dublin to Gdansk on Tuesday, June 12. You will have an opportunity on Wednesday to explore all that Gdansk has to offer. Then, on Thursday, enjoy the build-up to the match and also the aftermatch party.

Stay at the three-star Novotel Centrum Hotel from only €1,549pp. The Novotel Centrum Hotel is located in the culturerich Granar y Island region of Gdansk, a short walk from the Old Town.

Travel June 12 to 16.

Or stay at the four-star Mercure Hotel, from only €1,699pp.

The Mercure Hotel is set in the picturesque surroundings of the historic Gdansk Shipyard and other historic monuments.

Ireland V Italy

Trappatoni’s squad are back in the Stadion Miejski to take on the Azzuri. Both teams have a lot to prove after Italy’s 2-0 defeat in the friendly against Ireland last summer. Travel on June 16 and return on June 19.

Stay at the three-star HP Park Hotel, from only €1,699pp or the Polonez Hotel from €1,549pp.

For a 10-night trip and access to all three matches, stay at the three-star Novotel Malta Hotel from only €2,899pp.

Price includes access to a licensed match ticket through UEFA for the matches against Croatia, Spain and Italy, 10 nights

accommodation, return f lights from Dublin Airport and all transfers, including a coach transfer from Poznan to Gdansk for the match against Spain.

You will also have the services of a Thomson Sport host with a local representative for the duration of your trip to make sure things run smoothly, plus some nice little extras. Travel on June 9 and return on June 19.

For more information on the Euro 2012 packages, visit www.thompsonsports.ie or call 01 4331013.

Day trips

Joe Walsh Tours are also giving diehard soccer fans a chance to watch Ireland battle against some of Europe’s top teams.

Joe Walsh Tours have launched their Euro 2012 packages with day trips to each of the group stages

matches in Poland.

So, be there in the flesh to see the boys in green take on Croatia, Spain and Italy in what promises to be a nail-biting experience.

Ireland v Croatia on the June 10, 2012 from only €494 (including tax).

Ireland v Spain on the June 14, 2012 from only €524 (including tax).

Ireland v Italy on the June 18, 2012 from only €494 (including tax).

Offer includes direct return flights from Dublin to Poznan or Gdansk, return airport-stadium transfers in Poland, one small piece of hand luggage per person, the assistance of a Joe Walsh Tours representative throughout the duration of the trip and all airport taxes and charges. Match tickets are not included.

For further information, or to book your Euro 2012 package, visit www. joewalshtours.ie

9 February 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs

The Giant’s Causeway

Escape to the coast and stay in the charming Ballygally Castle ESCAPE to the coast with a castle retreat and overnight stay for two at the Ballygally Castle, with an evening main course from only £80 per couple.

This enchanting hotel is regarded as one of the most luxurious hotels in Antrim and is full of character and charm, boasting 44 beautiful bedrooms and many of the castle’s original features and antique furnishings, which give the hotel a unique, welcoming atmosphere.

The famous Glens of Antrim and the Giant’s Causeway are located close to the hotel and the superb scenery can be enjoyed from many coastal and glen walks.

To book or for further information, go to www.hastingshotels.com/ballygally-castle or call 048 2858 1066 and quote CASTLE RETREAT.

WEDDINGS Trim Castle is a place of legendary beauty

The perfect venue for the perfect day TRIM Castle Hotel, located in the Boyne Valley Region, is steeped in legendary beauty and is the perfect venue for the perfect wedding day.

Every woman dreams of a fairytale experience for their big day, and Trim Castle Hotel is one of the most beautiful and historic locations in Ireland in which to get married.

It sits with quiet authority overlooking the mystical Trim Castle and the adjoining rolling lawns of St Patrick’s Church.

Looking onto the Castle, alight in romantic colour amongst the evening sky, is a breathtaking scene. It brings elegance and charm to an already very special day.

Trim Castle Hotel is a registered venue for civil ceremonies.

The hotel’s Wedding Fair will take place on Sunday, February 19, 2012 from 2-5pm and, is the perfect day to view the venue.

The Great Hall banqueting suite will be fully set for a wedding on the

day and there will be an array of suppliers in attendance.

Modern couples don’t settle for just any venue, and Trim Castle Hotel possesses the old-world charisma of the historical Anglo-Norman castle, and the contemporary standards of magnificent food and stunning decor.

The floor-to-ceiling windows of the Great Hall banqueting suite and wonderful pre-function area allow a view of the castle and church lawns that is unique.

The roof-top garden, located on the third floor, provides the ultimate backdrop for wedding photography, with spectacular views over the grounds of the castle and the surrounding area.

The team aspire to achieving the highest standards of personal and professional attention in the planning and preparation of your special celebration.

All wedding packages offer a number of complimentary features, such

Trim Castle Hotel is located in the breathtaking Boyne Valley Region

as consultancy and planning with one of their experienced wedding coordinators, red carpet and champagne reception for the bridal party and complimentary stay

for the bride and groom in one of the deluxe rooms with champagne breakfast the following morning, For further information, please contact the

hotel’s wedding co-ordinators on 046-9483000 or email info@trimcastlehotel.com. Web: www. trimcastleweddings.com or www.trimcastlehotel. com

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24 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9 February 2012

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 How Do Actors Play

THIS workshop for children and accompanying adults will see Louis Lovett and Muireann Ahern take you through the actor’s journey on stage, with topics looking at how to take hold of the moment you’re in, how to look forward to the moment coming next and, most importantly, how to look back, presented in the mischievous but educational spirit of play. The workshop is at 10.30am on Saturday, February 11, with tickets priced €8 for children, and €10 for accompanying adults.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 David O’Doherty

LISTING David’s many comedy awards and nominations would fill half this page and so, instead, David is happy to simply list some of his modest achievements, including being the founder member of Destiny’s Child, inventing the iPad, and, most impressively, being the 1990 East Leinster under-14 triple jump bronze medallist. The Irish triple jump legend (and occasional comedy festival-winning comedian) returns to The Mill on Friday, February 10, with tickets for his 8pm show priced at €16.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Alternative Self Portraits

DRAIOCHT has a number of fascinating courses running at the moment, including Genevieve Harden’s alternative selfportraits eight-week course, running on Thursday mornings from 11am to 1pm until Thursday, March 29. Genevieve will guide and encourage students in experimenting and creating alternative self-portraits, drawing on the inner artist’s eye. Priced €80/€65 conc/OAP €40, contact Draiocht at 01 885 2622, or email emer@draiocht.ie

Human Muppet fan, Gary (Jason Segel) teams up with his Muppet brother, Walter (far right) to help make The Muppets famous again, as they join the Swedish Chef, Gonzo, Beaker and Doctor Bunsen Honeydew, Sam, Sweetums, Fozzie and Rizzo for a new, lively, big screen adventure

A fur-ly good film

The Muppets return, infused with the spirit of classic Muppet madness, but with a dash of modern humour I KATE CROWLEY

LET history judge me on my solemn decree – The Muppets delivered the definitive version of Dicken’s A Christmas Carol, and that’s a fact, Jack.

No, not you, Jack Black – although I’ll get to you, later – but I’m merely tipping my hand at being somewhat kindly predisposed towards The Muppets, in general.

Why, many a night I spent in front of our magnificent, wooden television in the living room, back in 197(cough, cough, no need to start pondering my age, dear readers), watching The Muppets on the small screen, while I also watched their bigscreen excursions in subsequent years.

Despite the premature death of their creator, Jim Henson, the characters have endured – and this is an endear-

FILM OF THE WEEK: The Muppets #### (G) 109 mins Director: James Bobin Starring: Jason Segel, Amy Adams, Peter Linz, Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzy, Gonzo, and a cast of thousands

OUR VERDICT: NOT quite up there with the very best of earlier Muppet films, and the long-running classic television show, The Muppets still makes a pleasant return, as behind the occasional schmaltz (and outright mayhem) it’s got something rarely seen these days in family films – heart. So, while it’s not the very best of Muppet madness, it’s still fun to hang out with this raggle-taggle group of characters ...

ing return to form for our furry friends.

But first – the humans.

Gary (Segel) and his girlfriend, Mary (Adams) live in Smalltown, and, as huge Muppet fans, it seems like a great idea for them to head off to LA, to see the legendary Muppet Theatre – with Gary’s Muppet brother, Walter (Linz) in tow.

Unfortunately, the Smalltown trio soon find that the big Muppet stars they grew up with are, effectively, washed-up

nobodies, forgotten by, well, pretty much everybody, while the theatre itself is a wreck.

Not only that, but the theatre’s up for grabs, with a greedy oilman all set to buy and demolish it.

(Ten guesses why, folks.)

Goodness! Is this the ignominious end for T he Muppets?

E r r, no, of

course not.

Gary, Mary and Walter are soon on the case, as a standard round-up-theold-gang plot plays out, with them seeking out all the big Muppet stars of old, determined to stage one helluva show to raise the necessary $10,000,000 needed to buy and save the Muppet theatre (and also, basically, put the Muppets back in the public eye again).

Also of course, things don’t go according to plan, with a certain stunning, headstrong, porcine princess getting her nose out of joint, and refusing to team up with Kermee and co.

But the show must go on, and it’s not long before The Muppets are back in action, with everything going well until – Well, t h a t ’s

enough. Either you’re a fan of those furball goofballs and bug-eyed antics, or you’re not, in which case this is definitely either a one- or a four-star film for you to consider.

It’s not quite up there with classic, vintage Muppet madness of old – but then, without Jim Henson at the helm, those dizzy heights of comic wackiness are unlikely to ever be scaled by The Muppets again.

Still, this film has plenty of heart, and daftness, while the human cast – including Jack Black, Whoopi Goldberg, and a few other well-known faces as Themselves – provide able support for the inevitable pratfalls, mugging, insults and calamity that come to pass.

To paraphrase The Muppets’ Statler and Waldorf – my critic spirit guides for umpteen years – it’s great for The Muppets to be here. (It’s great for them to be anywhere.)

9 February 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING Bytesandpieces Tiny titles spark copyright debate

With flagship launch titles such as Uncharted: Golden Abyss offering this level of graphic fidelity, Sony’s PlayStation Vita handheld device (inset) is likely to have lots of gamers reaching for it once it hits the market here

Should be plenty of Vita-lity in this one SHANE DILLON

REMEMBER the PlayStation Portable? The PSP was pretty popular for a while, but never quite set gaming markets alight for a variety of reasons.

I had one, but although I amassed a sizable collection of games, I never had the feeling that it reached its potential, with increasingly lacklustre

support from the gaming industry, and, certainly, the PSP never had anywhere near the kind of “legs” that Nintendo’s DS had.

Step forward Sony’s spiritual successor to the PSP, the VITA, which has been performing reasonably well overseas, with our Japanese friends having the advantage of early access.

As hand-held consoles

go, the Vita is taking an interesting approach, being what one gaming pundit described as “a PSP with bells on”, as in many ways it’s a straightforward evolution of Sony’s earlier piece of kit.

Of course, it’s a handheld console with greatly souped-up power and abilities, compared to its predecessor and, in a nod to modern gaming inter-

Anotherweebyte...

Some X-cellent titles on the way MICROSOFT are about to push out some interesting XBox 360 downloadable titles, with XBox LIVE Arcade House Party! seeing a number of titles hitting the XBox Live Arcade every Wednesday from February 15 until March 7.

And, as an incen-

tive for those who buy all four downloadable titles, Microsoft will give gamers 800 Microsoft Points (MP) in return.

Two titles in particular stand out – Alan Wake’s American Nightmare (February 22, 1200MP), which sees a return to the surprisingly involving survival horror game’s setting, involving a Stephen King-ish writer and the horrors

he finds in Bright Falls’ dense woods. This time, Alan finds trouble in Arizona, and should prove pretty entertaining again.

Later, I Am Alive (March 7, 1200MP) sees a long-delayed game of survival in a destroyed city finally arrive, boasting a strong narrative and an interesting setting – both adding to the XBox party experience.

ests, its “touch-enabled” functions lend it an interesting adaptability to add an extra dimension to games, including its curious rear touch pad.

So, how has the Vita been doing since its recent release, and how do they bode for its upcoming release within our own regional territory?

Well, since hitting the market in Japan in December, the Vita has performed ... okay. Sales figures haven’t been fully disclosed just yet – in fairness, it’s a little too soon to start racking up the figures, ahead of Sony’s quarterly accounts – but all accounts are that its performing solidly, if not spectacularly.

Here, there has been much focus on the impressive power of the console, which Sony have been showcasing to great effect with the Vita spinoff from one of its flagship titles, Uncharted: Golden Abyss.

With sales of 350,000

units in Japan during its first week, followed by a tailing-off but solid sales, Sony CFO Masaru Kato has said that the company had “a good start” for hitting 500,000 units within three weeks.

Will Dublin gamers take to the Vita with as much early-adopter enthusiasm as we’ve seen overseas, and which we can expect to see from the Vita’s (expected) release here in late February?

Perhaps, as, despite the recession, gamers and tech-heads still seem to find the money for the latest gadget, and Sony’s Vita certainly lays down quite a challenge for the iPhone generation, many of whom will undoubtedly be looking for something more than just an Angry Birds machine.

Despite the challenging times we live in, it’s good to see progression in the portable gaming market, and the Vita could have plenty of life once it hits its stride.

THERE’S an interesting row simmering away regarding content and intellectual property (IP), and what constitutes a publisher’s title adding to an already established genre, or being, perhaps, more similar than one may expect.

Given the stakes involved with publishing on Apple’s formats, the issues of how strongly IP is defined, and subsequently protected, are beginning to become ever more prominent.

Nimblebit, publisher of Tiny Tower, has been busy exchanging broadsides with Zynga, publisher of Dream Heights, in a continuing case that’s fascinating the gaming industry.

Launched last year, Tiny Tower’s core gameplay mechanics – building a tower block floor by floor, choosing what types of use each floor would be put to, and then filling staff positions, ordering stock, and so on – are now also on show in Dream Heights, which looks ... similar, and shares many of the same core gameplay mechanics, such as the number of employees per floor, stocking systems, express elevators, and so on.

Zynga has rejected any claims of plagiarism, and stuck to its guns that the titles merely resemble each other, and some core details coincidentally match. Still, it’ll be interesting if the renewed industry interest focuses attention on identifying greater ways to define, and then control, IP rights.

GAZETTE

26 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9 February 2012

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GazetteSPORT

JANUARY JOY:

Last month’s 2012 Sports Awards winners are announced: Page 29

SWIMMING: UNIQUE CLUB TAKES MORE HONOURS IN MASTERS’ CHAMPIONSHIP EVENT

Atlantis rises to the top as Bardi claims records sport@gazettegroup.com

ATLANTIS swimming club celebrated another milestone in their short existence last week when club member Rodrigo Bardi set a new Irish record in the 50m and 100m breastroke in the Masters’ category at the Masters’ Championships in Derry.

It provided another medal in the fledgling club’s history since they formed with just seven

members last autumn, basing themselves in the Markievicz pool on Townsend Street.

Since then, numbers have swelled to 19 but treble those numbers could be accommodated as they are in a unique position as one of the only competitive clubs based in a Dublin City Council pool.

As such, the club is grateful to the Markievicz staff who have allowed them to open the centre at 5am for morning swims

without members having to become leisure club members.

The club was formed in the wake of the change in structure at a leisure centre in Clontarf, which saw club coach Nicky Barker moving on from his management role.

A number of the children he coached there wanted to continue training under the Cabinteely resident, leading to the formation of Atlantis.

And the switch has

Members of the Atlantic Swim Club, with club coach Nicky Barker far right

given him a new lease of life, he told GazetteSport.

“When you are responsible for running a centre and a lot of staff, you can get distracted easily.

While I was there, we had plenty of national champions. Now we can just concentrate on the task at hand.

“Back in January 2011,

we looked for a new facility to train in. We looked at 22 or 23 places around Dublin, but couldn’t find space. The management at the Markieviz were incredibly amenable.”

For him, the philosophy of the club is simple: “If I was to say ‘swim fast and have fun’, it would be plagiarising too many people but, basically, it’s that sim-

ple. The committee have put an awful lot into getting the club organised.”

He brings with him a wealth of experience, working for five years at the Kilternan Sports Hotel. He has also coached a series of national champions like Leo Delaney, William Ensor and Maria Schaler.

The parents are delight-

ed he will be continuing to work with their children: “The consistency is the coach. You can swim in any pool, but it was the coach who was important to us and our children.”

The club currently is looking for new recruits of all ages. For more information, contact Irene Clonan on ireneclonan@ gmail.com.

28 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9 February 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastGAA

SPORTS AWARDS: LOCAL STAR ON DUBS’ TOUGH YEAR AHEAD with Setanta’s Senan Connell

Learning curve in place for Gilroy’s Dublin DUBLIN manager Pat Gilroy kept his players in the dressing room for quite some time on Saturday night and, having seen the way he went about the game against Kerry, there may well be a part of him that is happy with the way they performed and ultimately lost.

Little indicators, like leaving Diarmuid Connolly on frees and having Alan and Bernard Brogan on the bench for the whole game, would indicate to me that the Kerry game was a great opportunity to try things out, and Pat was happy to do just that.

If this was a league final, or indeed a championship game, Stephen Cluxton would have been on the frees and the two lads above would have played some part.

What will have disappointed him was the manner of the defeat and that is why a few home truths were no doubt spelled out in the dressing room. They have nowhere near the amount of work done that they had at this time in 2010, or 2011, and there are cobwebs. The physicality just was not there.

Dublin are on a pedestal. All-Ireland champions, every team will raise their game to beat them and when Kerry raise their game, you know you’ll be in trouble.

Dublin will find it very difficult on the road to Mayo. I do expect a backlash from the team but going back West to get a result is not easy and I even remember being on the end of one hammering myself as a player. They will need to step it up a gear or two.

Senan Connell is a pundit with Setanta Sports, broadcasting 14 exclusively live Allianz League matches this season.

Setanta Sports Satellite customers can subscribe for just €8.49 per month to get this great GAA plus 33 Premier League games, FA Cup, European soccer and World Class Rugby. Subscribe at Setanta.com/gaaoffer or call 0818 20 30 40.

Kilmacud Crokes’ and Dublin footballer, Kevin Nolan, receives the Dublin Sports Award on behalf of the All-Ireland winning team

Nolan’s all-star 2011 sport@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN’S Sam Maguire-winning senior football team were honoured with the September Team of the Month award at the Dublin Sports Awards, and Kilmacud Crokes’ Kevin Nolan was on hand to represent the side, who were set to line out at Croke Park the following evening, at the gala ceremony at the Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley.

T he Crokes’ halfback, who came on in the 51st minute, was delighted to receive the honour in front of the cameras of Setanta Sports Ireland, and he spoke to GazetteSport after the ceremony.

“It’s an honour to get this award on behalf of the team. We had a great 2011 and it was

something that we will hope to build on in 2012.”

Ahead of the tie at Croke Park the following evening, Nolan spoke about the expectations that Dublin have ahead of what is certain to be a challenging year.

“There has been a lot of talk about revenge, but I don’t think that Kerry are out for revenge. I think they just want to get a good start to the season, like ourselves.

“We have set ourselves a few goals, and we want to add to what we achieved last year. If we do what we did last year, we won’t go anywhere.

“We need to improve and exceed the intensity in matches and training sessions this year. We

are at the top, the champions, and people want to beat us, and that will be a motivation for us to remain at the top,” said Nolan.

New challenge With seven new faces in the starting line-up for the Dubs, Nolan was happy to see a fresh approach from Pat Gilroy and his backroom team.

“It’s a new challenge for all of us, and it’s good to have all the young lads on the panel as well - we believe we can do well.

“The new lads are fitting in well, and the management know as well as we do that we need new things, new blood in the side with new skills, that will give the management some headaches in terms of

picking the right people for all the positions right across in the side.

“Like in the O’Byrne Cup, and for a lot of teams, I think that the first league matches are being used as an experimental platform where we can see different tactics and different players.

“It’s good, especially for the young players, to get a run out at Croke Park in our home league games. It can be a bit daunting playing there, and I know from playing my first championship game that it can really affect your play in front of the big crowd,” said Nolan.

“If we can blood as many young players as possible at this stage, it can only help come championship time.”

Nolan was also posi-

tive about the future from his club’s perspective, with Kilmacud in a state of flux themselves at the moment.

“Kilmacud don’t have a senior football manager at the moment, but that should be announced in the coming weeks, as the league begins again soon enough.

“Talking to the lads, we are all motivated having seen what St Brigid’s achieved in Leinster at the end of 2011.

“A lot of clubs in Dublin believe that once they get out of the county championship, they can do well on the bigger, national stage.

“We cer tainly feel that we can achieve that given the opportunity, and we’re looking forward to a great 2012.”

9 February 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 29

in association with

DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS 2011: A CELEBRATION

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS NOVEMBER WINNERS IN ASSOCIATION WITH

STARof theMONTH

AVA HUTCHINSON THE DSDAC athlete was in sparkling form in Montreal in January to claim the Olympic qualifying standard in the marathon, joining teammate Linda Byrne as one more Dundrum South Dublin athlete competing for a place at London 2012. Her showing in the prestigious event was further proof of the talent pool at the club.

TEAMof theMONTH

SWORDS JUDO CLUB

THE Swords club claimed an incredible nine AllIreland titles at the National schools dojo in Finglas in January, with another victory in the shape of the Nikita Levchenko in the 41kg minor men’s section and Eddie McLoughlin in the junior mens’ 55kg section at NUI Galway last week to underline the quality of the fighters and the coaches at the North Dublin club.

ANOTHER sports awards year over, and a new one just begun!

Time flies when you’re having fun and it was a huge delight to present the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards at the Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley last week in the presence of the cameras of Setanta Ireland.

But sport goes on as we know, and we’re delighted to present the first winners of the 2012 awards.

Ava Hutchinson added herself to the roster of impressive athletes from Dundrun South Dublin likely to appear at London 2012 with a qualifying performance in Montreal last month.

Castleknock GAA’s Niall Nulty receiving the team award on behalf of the club with Clarion Hotel’s Garrett Marrinan and GazetteSport editor, Rob Heigh

Dublin’s finest at Gazette celebration sport@gazettegroup.com

THE 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, in conjunction with Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley and Setanta Sports Ireland proved to be the best-ever celebration of the finest in Dublin sports, when the 24 monthly stars and teams named throughout the year were honoured last weekend.

In front of a packed house, compere Paul Dempsey, the esteemed sports journalist and presenter on Setanta, exper tly steered the evening that saw the main awards being presented to Dundr um

South Dublin high-jump expert Deirdre Ryan and the fastest-growing club in Dublin GAA, Castleknock.

Speaking after the event, GazetteSpor t editor, Rob Heigh, said: “Every year, it is a privilege to report on Dublin sport, and to have the opportunity to give something back to the people who make sport in the city so vibrant and diverse is an honour in itself.

“The variety and scope of the awards, that mean we have the chance to honour individuals, clubs, schools and teams across the myriad of

sports in the city, allows us the chance to thank not only the people who recieved the awards, but all of those whose great achievements appear in the sports pages of the eight Gazette newspapers every week of the year.”

The diversity of the event saw representatives of 14 different sports, from underage soccer to senior golf, receiving awards on the stage from the affable Dempsey.

This was the first year that the event was covered by Setanta Sports Ireland, and a pro gramme based on the events of the evening

will go out on the cable channel in the next few weeks.

“We are looking forward to another year of incredible achievement on the sporting calendar,” said Rob Heigh.

“With London 2012 and Euro 2012 on the horizon, as well as the Six Nations just started, it certainly looks like 2012 will be as packed with excitement, drama and Irish success on a local, national, and international stage to look forward to.

“These awards are about the best of our sporting communities, and the best of Dublin.”

Swords Judo Club showed the small-club ethos of grass-roots development with nine titles at the All-Ireland Schools Judo event last month.

Let us know!

Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance to be one of our monthly stars.

Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ gazettesportII. PJ, proud father of Deirdre Ryan

Host Paul Dempsey, of Setanta, with Insaka FC

30 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9 February 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: FORMER DERRY CITY MAN MAKES WAVES IN IRAN

Pinder sisters power Hermes to big victory HERMES kept hold of their fourth place in Leinster women’s hockey division one with a comfortable 4-0 success at a drenched Whitechurch Park, finding early goals to overcome a Corinthian side who had frustrated them in the return fixture before Christmas.

Gillian Pinder got the first from the second corner of the day and Eimear Horan had her side 2-0 ahead in the 15th minute, the assist coming from Jenny Kinch. Caitriona McGilp completed the first half scoring on the reverse with scarcely 20 minutes gone to all but secure victory.

Siobhan Burke pulled off a string of saves as the reds shored up their defence in the second period but, pushing on, they were caught by a late counter as Gillian Pinder and McGilp broke and laid up for Laura Pinder , pictured, to net her third goal in two games.

Mets downed by city rivals 11890 Killester had 11 points to spare over Meteors (55-44) as they kept up their hopes of finishing in the play-off positions.

Meteors have been showing good form in recent weeks but came unstuck against their capital rivals, who continue to be without the massively influential Ashling Sullivan.

“It was a big win for us as I was curious how we would react to the loss of Ashling Sullivan,” said Killester head coach Mark Grennell.

Point move in right direction SEAPOINT pulled

off a hard-fought win over Queen’s University to close the gap on the leaders in the Ulster Bank League Division 2A as they nabbed a 13-12 victory at Kilbogget Park last Saturday.

Former Junior Player of the Year, Johnny Walsh, crossed for his side’s only try while Brian Keegan kicked two penalties and a conversion to drag his side over the line.

The result lifts Seapoint to fifth in the division in their maiden year at this elevated level of competition.

They now lie four points off third place Queen’s with five rounds of games to go in the competition with southside rivals De La Salle Palmerston also coming into view, losing to midtable City of Derry.

Eamon Zayed, seen here in action for Sporting FIngal, took the World Player of the Week title after his impressive hat-trick for Persepolis

Zayed takes the World title I sport@gazettegroup.com

FORMER St Joseph’s Boys man Eamon Zayed picked up the goal.com World Player of the Week title last Monday following his incredible hat-trick for new club, Persepolis, when they picked off one of the unlikeliest of victories in the Tehran derby.

Zayed moved to Iran from Derry City on a short-term deal which runs until June, following a 2011 season in Ireland in which he won the PFAI Player of the Year gong and was the league’s top scorer.

He played a starring role in his second game

for Persepolis in the Persian Gulf Cup derby against rivals, Esteghlal, last week.

Many members of the crowd of 90,000 were leaving the ground early as Esteghal looked set for victory, leading 2-0 with less than ten minutes to go and Persepolis reduced to ten men.

But Zayed emerged from the bench, halving the deficit in the 86th minute with a neat rightfoot finish after being set through down the left.

He nodded in an equaliser two minutes later and grabbed the winner with the clock ticking past the 90-minute mark, spinning

Ladies love Leinster: Rugby night set to benefit ABC charity LEINSTER players Brian O’Driscoll, Domin-

ic Ryan and Ian Madigan were on hand for Aoife Cogan launch Leinster Rugby’s sixth annual ladies’ night in aid of Action Breast Cancer.

The event takes place on Friday, February 17, when the boys in blue tackle Scarlets at the RDS. The evening will be packed with activities to treat Leinster’s female supporters. For further information on Ladies Love Leinster, or to purchase tickets, visit leinsterrugby.ie.

on a ball into the box and picking out the corner, to complete an incredible fightback.

Speaking about the fairytale performance, he said afterwards: “To score my first goals for the club and in the manner in which I did, was absolutely amazing! It was a derby here, the two biggest teams in Iran, played in front of 90,000 fans in the national stadium and 20 million people watched it live on TV. It was Roy of the Rovers stuff!”

The Libyan international is hopeful a strong run in Iran could pave the way for a big move in the summer when he will

next be looking for a new contract. Currently, he is acclimatising to life in the Middle East, a totally new experience.

“I’ve been here almost a month now and I think I’ve finally adapted to the place now. Scoring the hat-trick on such an important game will, hopefully, allow me kick on now and do well here.

“Life over here is ok.

It’s obviously different than back home in so far as they have certain rules, like drink is forbidden, so there are no bars or nightclubs. Traffic and pollution is terrible here too! But it’s a safe country, people are very friendly and there are

plenty of things to do. I’m kept busy training six days a week though.

“Football here is class.

It’s very professionally run here, with training facilities being top-notch.

The standard is very good.

The captain of my team is a legend here in Iran; Ali Karimi. He played for Bayern Munich for a few years. He’s a top player and he’s an example of the standard here. ”People love, love, love football here in the country. You have men coming up to you, shaking your hand and taking pictures all the time. You get noticed every were you go.”

9 February 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 31

in association with

DUBLIN GAA: SENIOR SIDES RETURN TO LEAGUE

a

CLUB NOTICEBOARD CUALA CLUB Strategy meeting takes place

from Nemo Rangers. The U-14As got

this coming Friday in Fitzpatrick’s

off to a bright start, drawing with

Castle Hotel, Killiney between 7 and

a Kerrins O’Rahilly’s team that had

9pm. As a Cuala member or parent,

won every game they have played in

each of you has an important role

the past two and half years.

to play in how your club develops

Leading at half-time against Clon-

over the next three years. Every-

mel Commercials, they were head-

body’s opinion counts; whether

ing for the A final, but an injury in

you have a view on our pitches, our

defence and a f ive-minute goal

buildings, our marketing, the gear

burst from the Tipp champs sent

in the shop, the way the Academy is

Cuala into Sunday’s consolation

run, or the way you do or don’t feel

final instead against Austin Stacks

involved in your own club. We want

from Tralee.

to talk, listen and imagine what the

The lads showed great charac-

club will be like in 2015 and build a

ter to get the job done by putting

plan to make it happen.

up a 5-13 score against the Kerry

The first trophy of the new year

side and stayed on to watch Nemo

returned to the club on Sunday,

Rangers win their own trophy for

though it was a shield rather than

the first time in six years with a fine

the Mick O’Brien Cup returning

performance.

FOXROCK CABINTEELY Dublin ladies were in ruthless form against Kildare in their first outing of 2012. Pictures: GAAPics.com

Jackies jubilant on return to Division 1 LADIES’ NFL DIVISION 1 Kildare Dublin

0-6 5-18

I sport@gazettegroup.com

GEMMA Fay’s reign as Dublin ladies captain got off to the perfect start when the Dublin ladies’ footballers got their year off to the perfect start, announcing their return to NFL Division One in serious style.

The Ballyboden St Enda’s woman was one of four club members in the starting line-up as the Jackies ran up an emphatic 27-point victory over a hapless Kildare, to get new manager Peter Clarke’s tenure in the hot-seat off to the perfect start.

From the throw-in, Dublin looked like they meant business, with the Kildare goalkeeper making a fine save after just 40 seconds.

This was a sign of things to come, with Niamh McEvoy and Sinead Aherne netting for the Jackies with two goals in

the first eight minutes, along with points from Olivia Leonard and Natalia Hyland to build a lead of 2-4 to no score after 15 minutes.

Kildare, to their credit, fought hard and began to win more possession, but with Siobhan McGrath marshalling a wellorganised defence, the Lilywhites only managed a point from their possession before Dublin midfielder Goldrick netted the third goal for the Jackies in the 20th minute.

Followed by points from Aherne, Ciara Murphy and Siobhan Woods, it left the score 3-8 to 0-1 in favour of Dublin when referee Pat Kehoe blew for half-time.

Kildare started the second half brightly, kicking the first score of the half and began to settle into the game.

Dublin, however, driven from midfield by the elusive Goldrick, rallied again, with points from McEvoy, Hyland and

Woods.

Kildare never gave up and kicked four points, but goals from Leonard and Aherne polished off a fine performance from Dublin which gets their campaign of to a great start.

Next up, they travel to play in Meath next Sunday.

Meanwhile, on the men’s side, Kilmacud Crokes’ Craig Dias made his senior competitive debut but there was to be no repeat of the Dubs victory of last September as they fell 1-14 to 0-11 to Kerry in Croke Park.

The kingdom dominated the second half of the first round of the Allianz NFL Division 1 clash on Saturday night to give them the spoils over a lacklustre Dublin.

Darran O’Sullivan netted the killer goal 15 minutes from time after top class build-up play to extend his side’s lead to five points.

It was a rusty start for

the Dubs who might have been further down in the final tally had Kerry converted some of their 17 wides.

Early on, Kevin McManamon’s point made it five points each in the 20th minute and the lead was grasped when Stephen Cluxton’s ’45 and another effort from Mossie Quinn made it 0-7 to 0-5 at half-time.

But Kerry bossed the second half and Dublin’s cause was also not helped by the sending off of Eamon Fennell in the 67th minutes as the home side’s challenge petered out before the finish.

DUBLIN ladies’ senior team got off to

who commence their O’Connor Cup

a winning start in the Bord Gais Divi-

campaign on February 14 when they

sion 1 League with an emphatic vic-

take on UUJ. A number of our girls

tory over Kildare. The club is repre-

are part of the UCD squad, namely

sented by Sinead Goldrick, Amy Ring

Sinead Delahunty, Amy Connolly and

and Ciara Murphy. Club chairman,

the only fresher on the team, Niamh

Pat Ring is also a selector with the

Collins.

Dublin squad.

Pat is also coach of the UCD team

Congratulations to Niamh Ryan who has made the Dublin U-16 panel.

STARS OF ERIN THE Under-8s had a wonderful win

Marley Park on the all-weather

against Ballyboden Wanderers on

pitch. Stars were unlucky not to

Saturday morning with a fantastic

come away from the game with

team display. Special mention for

something after a strong battling

Jack Keane and Ciara Doyle who

performance.

registered wonderful scores. Con-

The Under-12s had a fantastic vic-

gratulations to Hugh on making his

tory over local rivals, St Anne’s, in

Under-8s debut. Thanks to Bally-

Bohernabreena on Saturday morn-

boden Wanderers for the challenge

ing. This was an excellent game from

game.

a spectator’s perspective with some

The Under-10s played a very strong

outstanding play from Sean Roe,

Ballinteer St John’s team down in

Shane McDonnell and Conor Kinsella.

WANDERERS MEMBERSHIP now due and must be paid in full before February 27.

Tickets for the Dublin Spring Series matches now available at discount-

Playing members €100, non-play-

ed price of €30 for the three home

ing members €50. No player will be

matches. Please contact Gary for

eligible to play unless fully paid up

details on 086 833 0433.

prior to competitive matches com-

Junior A and B players training

mencing on February 11. Non-playing

continues at Scoil Mhuire each Tues-

members are entitled to apply for

day at 7.30pm, Firhouse Gym each

Dublin tickets if fully paid up only.

Thursday at 7.45pm, and St Colum-

Contact Damian on 086 863 2565.

ba’s College each Sunday 10.45am.

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

32 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9 February 2012