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INSIDE: Ryan’s royal greeting for Queen Elizabeth II P6-7

May 26, 2011

A LAST GOODBYE: Tributes paid as

Dr Garret FitzGerald laid to rest P2

Runway queens: Stylish fashions at a local show LOCAL members of Enable Ireland

Geraldine’s: GAA to salute 125 years of local club Page 32

took to a runway in The Royal Marine Hotel recently to showcase some fresh fashions for the current, and upcoming seasons.

Trish Whelan, Lucy Riordan, Nicola Redmond, Valerie Whelan, Nicola Donegan and Emma Scott were among those involved with the show, which, in addition to its stylish looks, was also a great way to promote greater public awareness, understanding and respect for people living with a disability.

Picture: Peter Doyle

Full Gallery on Pages 8, 10

Sports Awards: May’s nominees for Dublin prizes are announced Page 29

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

Cash crisis halts work on complex

Developer forced to lay off staff on Blackrock facility

Q DAWN LOVE

CONSTRUCTION on a stateof-the-art new library and senior college in Blackrock has been halted after the company awarded the contract for the major restoration and extension to the former Civic Offices announced it is under-

going a cash crisis.

Galway based-company, Cordil Construction, one of the largest school building firms in the country, announced last week that it has been forced to put staff on temporary lay-offs and to temporarily suspend work in its sites.

In a statement, the com-

pany said it was owed “substantial monies from various contracts”.

Independent councillor Victor Boyhan said he was hopeful that Cordil’s financial issues could be “resolved”, and that construction on the Blackrock site could recommence.

Full Story on Page 2

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2 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 26 May 2011

DLRCC: MAJOR WORKS PLANNED FOR CENTRE

POLITICS Dr Garret FitzGerald laid to rest

Upgrade for homes for the elderly MAJOR renovations at a centre in Glasthule, which provides accommodation for the elderly, are set to get under way next month, Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council (DLRCC) confirmed this week.

At a meeting last week, the council said the proposed renovation and energy-efficiency works at the centre were scheduled to be completed by the end of October.

Beaufort is run by DLRCC, and has 58 individual residential units for elderly residents, as well as a day centre.

Independent councillor Victor Boyhan said he was delighted that the council had agreed to prioritise the refurbishment of Beaufort.

“All credit goes to the housing department, who are responsible for the project, and have secured finance to carry out the work. Support housing at Beaufort enables older persons to live independently with privacy, dignity and fulfilment, for as long as they wish and are able,” he said.

New doors and doubleglazed windows will be

installed, and the heating system will also be replaced by a new, gas district heating system.

Every bathroom will have a new towel radiator, and all water cylinders will be replaced.

The council also plans to block up the fireplace, and install cavity fill wall insulation, attic insulation, and improved ventilation to render the units in compliance with current building regulations.

Cllr Boyhan said that it is important to maintain and improve Beaufort.

“It’s a lovely facility; it’s important that it’s kept upgraded, as such.

It’s been there for many years, so it was obviously needed to be improved, and the insulation was a problem,” he said.

“We want to support people that come in.

Beaufort allows people to have independent living, with some support if they require it, in terms of going to the central building for meals and support.

“And, as long as you can keep people independently living, I think it’s a positive thing,” said Cllr Boyhan.

Dr Garret FitzGerald was given a low-key yet dignified burial, as thousands bade their farewell to a true political titan. Picture: Geraldine Woods

PEOPLE: INTERNATIONAL FIGURES PAY THEIR RESPECTS

Tributes to statesman Q PAUL HOSFORD

dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

FORMER Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald was laid to rest in Shanganagh Cemetery on Sunday, with almost 20,000 showing up to mark the life of the man that President Mary McAleese described as “the Renaissance man of our time”.

The President led the tributes to the man who led the country from June, 1981, to March, 1982, and from December, 1982, until March, 1987.

She said: “His thoughtful writing, distinctive voice and

probing intellect all combined to make him one of our national treasures.

“Above all, Garret FitzGerald was a true public servant.

Steeped in the history of the State, he constantly strove to make Ireland a better place for all its people.”

President McAleese described Dr FitzGerald as a man who “lived his life with total integrity, unrelenting purpose and an unquenchable concern for the welfare of Ireland and its citizens”.

Queen Elizabeth II sent a message of condolence. “A

true statesman, he made a lasting contribution to peace, and will be greatly missed,” said the monarch.

On Monday, US President Barack Obama paid tribute to Dr FitzGerald in his public address at College Green, saying that he had been a man of vision. “[He was] someone who believed in the power of education, someone who believed in the potential of youth, most of all, someone who believed in the potential of peace, and who lived to see that peace realised.”

The funeral was a low-key

affair, free of pomp, pretension and fanfare, much like Dr Fitzgerald himself.

While ostensibly a State funeral, the event lacked many of the hallmarks of such an occasion.

There was no 21-gun salute, no graveside oration, and no military display for the man who laid the foundations of peace in Northern Ireland.

It was a simple ceremony, with Dr FitzGerald’s remains brought to the Shanganagh cemetery in a quiet procession, to be laid next to his beloved wife, Joan, who passed away in 1999, following 52 years of marriage.

Cash-strapped developer suspends Blackrock project Q DAWN LOVE dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

CONSTRUCTION on a state-of-the-art new library and senior college in Blackrock has been halted after the company awarded the contract for the major restoration and extension to the former Civic Offices announced it is undergoing a cash crisis.

Galway-based company, Cordil Construction, one of the largest school building firms in the country, announced last week that it has been

forced to put staff on a temporary lay-off, and suspend work in its sites.

In a statement, the company said it was owed “substantial monies from various contracts”.

Safeguard “To continue work on its live sites and safeguard jobs, the company has requested an overdraft facility from its main bankers, which is currently under consideration,” said the statement.

Independent councillor Victor Boyhan said

he was disappointed to learn that contract works had been halted.

“After years of protracted arguments about the future use of these buildings, and the costs and responsibility to maintain them, I believe that the agreement reached with the VEC and the council to develop the site was the best option.

“I campaigned for years to have the Blackrock Civic Buildings restored, public access maintained and the Carnegie Library reopened; the current project being construct-

ed by Cordil for the VEC, with the consent of the council, will bring these objectives about.

“The VEC project will provide a Senior College in Blackrock for up to 1,000 people seeking education and training, and that is a very important and progressive initiative, which I welcome.

“The old Carnegie Library will be fully restored and expanded, which is something I am particularly excited about – that it will remain a public library,” he said.

26 May 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 3

IT’S YOUR STORY ‘300-year-old treasure’

Workshops to impress with a CV

Local man strikes it lucky with bell find Q JONNY TENNANT

Local Gazette reader

A RARE bronze bell dating from the 1700s was recently found on Seapoint beach.

Part-time beachcomber William Wood was navigating his way through some rock pools when he made the exciting discovery. At first glance, he mistook the bell for a ballcock from a toilet cistern.

He says: “I kicked it and stubbed my toe. I realised that it was a lot heavier than a ballcock, bent down, started to dig the sand away, and pulled out this round object with wonderful sundurst ornamentation on it.”

Wood took the object to a pool, washed all the sand away, and revealed what has turned out to be a crotal bell (as opposed to a normal bell, which has a mouth, rather than a slit).

“I was quite excited. I thought that I had found something historic, so I took it home, cleaned it up and removed the barnacles,” said Wood.

Having searched the internet for bells, he found other examples and got in touch with a bell expert in England. The initials “RW” inscribed on the bell stand for Robert Wells, a noted bellmaker.

DIGITAL Media Courses Ltd will provide free CV workshops in late June, based at Senior College Dun Laoghaire.

Organisers of the workshops say the practical initiative aims to help job seekers build and maintain excellent CVs, which are crucial when trying to get a job interview.

The CV workshops will be held on Thursday, June 30.

In the two-hour workshop, Digital Media Courses’s staff will show examples of good and bad CVs. Participants will learn how to build and tailor their CV according to the job they are applying for, and the key “dos and don’ts of writing an eye-

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‘I kicked it and stubbed my toe, bent down, dug the sand away and pulled out this round object with wonderful sundurst ornamentation’

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William Wood

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Wells, and his son, Robert Wells Junior, ran a foundry in Aldbourne, Wiltshire, from 1755 to 1798.

Unlike the bell that Wood found, most other examples have lost their clanger – the small piece of iron in the centre.

Another unusual feature is the hinge, which is also intact.

This bell is much larger than any example the bell expert had previously seen, being about six inches in diameter, and weighing a hefty threeand-a-half pounds. This makes the find all the more interesting.

About ten paces from where the bell was found, there is a plaque on the sea front wall commemorating the sinking of the HMS Prince of Wales,

SKILLS: FREE INITIATIVE TO MAXIMISE IMPACT

At Blackrock Market Cafe, William Wood shows the beautiful old bell he found in a rock pool at Seapoint beach when he stubbed his toe on it. Picture: Gabriel Noonan

and The Rochdale, in 1807.

Dublin had long been dangerous for ships, because it was accessible only at high tide.

It was the sinking of The Prince of Wales, and the 400 bodies washed up on the shore, that prompted the building of Dun Laoghaire Harbour. There might be a link between the bell and the ship.

Wood suggested: “It

could have been attached to a piece of wood, and the wood came closer to the beach and then rotted away from the bell.”

He would be very interested to find out more about the bell, and hopes that it will be possible to find a record of the ship’s inventory, and discover if the bell was from the ship or not.

Wood, and his partner, Eva Geraghty, run the nearby Blackrock

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

Market Cafe and have been contributing to the cultural life of Blackrock with art exhibitions, film nights, reggae nights and tempting food for almost a year.

For those interested, the bell is available to view in the cafe.

Wood reflected on his find. “It’s not often you find something that’s 300 years old in the middle of the bay. It’s like a boyhood dream, finding treasure.”

catching CV”.

Brendan Maguire, a HR and online marketing specialist, and the owner of Digital Media Courses, says: “Recruiters don’t read a CV, they scan it, and you only have a few moments to grab the recruiter’s attention.

Opportunity “The interview is your opportunity to meet with a recruiter face-to-face and sell yourself. However, you may never get that opportunity with a poorly-designed CV.” You can register for these free CV workshops at w w w.digitalmediacourses.ie, or telephone 01 647 1595. Alternatively, email info@digitalmediacourses.ie.

4 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 26 May 2011

DLRCC: COUNCIL OWED WASTE CHARGES

€15.9m fees are owed Q DAWN LOVE dunlaoghaire@gazettegroup.com

MILLIONS of euro are owed to Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council (DLRCC) in unpaid waste charges.

At a council meeting last week, DLRCC said that, at the end of 2010, waste charges due to it from householders amounted to a massive €15.9m, with a further €146,185 owed from commercial customers.

However, responding to Independent councillor Victor Boyhan, the council said the balance at the end of 2010 represented a 41% reduction on the 2008 outstanding arrears figure, and constituted “a significant reduction in the level of arrears”.

A spokesperson said: “The council is actively

pursuing the outstanding debt through in-house collection procedures and the use of debt collection agencies.

“The council estimates that a considerable portion of the €15.9 million outstanding from householders will be waived when householders apply for waivers.

“There is no deadline for applying for a waiver, and it is the council’s experience that householders only apply for a waiver when enforcement action, such as legal proceedings, is initiated.

“The council is willing to accept instalment payments from householders or businesses who are experiencing difficulty, and who may not be in a position to pay their outstanding charges in full by means of a single payment,” said the council.

Having a ball: Enjoying the educational fun of science and learning with a Centre’s interactive displays KILL O’The Grange NS pupils, Owen and Emma, had lots of fun in the Weather Watch section of SEE/ DO during their end-of-term trip to W5, the award-winning Science and Discovery Centre in Belfast’s Odyssey Complex this week, which welcomed the Blackrock students to

a world of science and wonder.

The pupils enjoyed a day of exploration and discovery, taking in almost 250 interactive exhibits across four dynamic areas, entitled START, GO, SEE and DO, along with the centre’s daily demonstration shows, and a brand-new exhibi-

tion, SENSE. From down-to-earth explorations in natural science to the high-tech world of simulation technology, there were plenty of educational and entertaining opportunities for everyone to explore, experiment, and discover.

€900,000 funding boost for range of local services YOUTH services in Dun Laoghaire got a major boost this week following the announcement that €900,000 has been allocated to several projects

in the area.

The funding has been welcomed by local politicians, including Fine Gael TD Mary Mitchell O’Connor, who said that,

in spite of the country’s financial difficulties, children and young people deserved to be supported.

She said: “I am delighted to announce more than €900,000 in funding for community and youth services in Dun Laoghaire. The Minister for Children confirmed to me that this funding has been allocated for Dun Laoghaire-based projects for 2011.

“T he funding will be distributed through projects run by Dun Laoghaire VEC and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,” she said.

“Projects to receive funding include Loughlinstown/Ballybrack Project, Dun Laoghaire Youth Information Centre, Sallynoggin Youth Project, Prevention Through Education, Southside Travellers Youth Support, Cuala Sports, and Social Project and Arts Access.

“These Dun Laoghaire

projects are doing highly c o m m e n d a b l e wo r k for children and young people in our area and deserve our support,” said Deputy Mitchell O’Connor.

Meanwhile, a host of locals turned out for William Dockrell’s annual Alzheimer’s Tea Day at his house in Newtownpark Avenue recently.

Amongst those who attended the event, which raised almost €1,000 on the day, were Deputy Mitchell O’Connor, and several councillors.

“It was a great success.

There was a great turnout, and a big thanks to everyone who supported it,” said William, who is currently the chairperson of the Carysfort-Priory Fine Gael branch.

It’s the eighth successive year that he has run the event and, with a steady stream of donations still coming in, he is hoping that the total raised from the day will be closer to €2,000.

C O M M E R C I A L F E AT U R E

26 May 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 5

yourLocal LocalGood GoodFood Foodguide

Local Master Butcher - craft meats a cut above the rest

Master Butcher, Thomas O’Connor (above) displays just some of his fantastic range of top quality meats (below) and produce available at his local shop (left).

WHILE the local butcher has for some time been an increasingly rare species, the demand for value for money, as well as quality craftsmanship, has meant that one local business is thriving.

Thomas O’Connor, owner of T.O’Connor Meats on the Glasthule Road, says that his shop offers both of those aspects, plus many more for the discerning customer.

More than meat “We stock a lot of natural products, such as performance meals for people interested in sports nutrition and diets.

“We also have organic products, such as herbal teas, snacks and, gluten and sugar-free products, including gluten-free Indian meals from The Bombay Pantry.”

As well as the more niche items on the menu, O’Connor’s offers the more traditional items that you expect from a butch-

ers, though the craftsmanship is higher.

“Our customers can choose a regular, freerange or organic chicken, which we can bone out and mince.

“Or, we can break down the breast to cut up for stirf r y, or dice

for curry. The legs can be cut up, left whole or boned out and stuffed. All these chickens have traceability back to Irish farms and we encourage our customers to ask us if they’re not sure about anything.”

Expertise beyond most The level of expertise and quality of service is what really sets O’Connor’s apart, with their handling of their beef a case in point.

“We stock ribs of beef on the bone in our cold

room and hang them for between 21 to 28 days.

“The bones are removed and the beef is cut into succulent rib-eye steaks suitable for the barbecue or the oven. We often taken out the barrel or the

eye of the beef and stuff it with our home-made garlic butter. The beef is then rolled and cut into steaks, these steaks can be cooked in the oven for approximately 30-40 minutes in tin-foil @180 degrees.

“Other times we roll in carrot, spinach and leek, to create a delicious dish which is best cooked on a bed of root vegetables in a casserole dish with a heavy lid. This particular dish is suitable in the cold weather when cooked at 130 degrees for 3½ – 4 hours,” says Thomas.

Added value!

With specials, including 1lb of Round Beef for €6.15, 1lb of beef stir fry for €6.57, four quarter pounders for €5.00, O’Connor’s is a must-visit for all meat eaters.

For all your meat requirements, contact Tom on 01 2841125 , email oconnorthomas179@ gmail.com or drop into the shop on Glasthule Road, Sandycove, Co Dublin.

6 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 26 May 2011

THE QUEEN RTE’s Ryan Tubridy, helps to extend the hand of

RTE’s Ryan

Tubridy greets the Queen

Tubridy was happy to give a cead mile failte to Queen Elizabeth II, and to Prince Philip. Pictures: Maxwell Pictures

Tubridy pours on the charm at Guinness YAN Tubridy extended the hand of friendship to Queen Elizabeth II when she called to the Guinness complex’s Sky Bar on the second day of her State visit, where the RTE presenter was helping to extend the country’s well wishes to our neighbouring head of state.

After the Queen was given an informative overview of the history

R

and production of Ireland’s most famous product, Tubridy gave the Queen, and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, an overview of the city’s layout, thanks to the panoramic views afforded by the Sky Bar. Despite the overcast skies, Tubridy gave a glowing account of the rich diversity to be found across the ancient city of Dublin, as the Queen’s

eyes swept from the distant sundappled peak of the Sugarloaf mountain, across the rolling suburbs to the distant south, and back to the proud buildings and historic centres in the surrounding city centre.

Although she, and Prince Philip, failed to sink a pint of the black stuff – or, indeed, to sample it – it was clear they enjoyed the visit to the brewery.

The Queen had much to reflect upon during her visit

The Queen studied with great interest the original 9,999-year premises lease signed by Arthur Guinness

The Queen and Prince Philip enjoyed waiting for the stout to settle, with Prince Philip appearing especially interested in the process

26 May 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 7

friendship for the historic state visit of Queen Elizabeth II

(Above, and left) Ryan Tubridy gave the Queen and Prince Philip an overview of the city’s

historic sites and landmarks

Shankill girl Rachel Fox joined An Tanaiste, Eamon Gilmore, to present the Queen with an elegant bouquet of Irish blooms, upon Although security was, as ever, extremely tight, the Queen’s entourage enjoyed another warm Irish welcome

her arrival at Baldonnel

8 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 26 May 2011

CHARITY Enable Ireland fashion at the Royal Marine Hotel

Jackie Bates, arts tutor, Enable Ireland

Boadicea Robinson applauded this model’s fresh style for the season. Pictures: Peter Doyle

A fashionable way to help raise awareness NABLE Ireland recently held its adult services’ Spring Fashion Show, with Dun Laoghaire members taking to the runway in The Royal Marine Hotel to showcase some fresh new looks for the current, and upcoming, seasons.

Members, helpers, family members,

E

friends and locals made it a busy event, with everyone keen to promote not just some fashionable looks, but the importance of inclusivity and equality in the community.

Adding to the day’s fun, a number of spot prizes were given out, with a raffle proving a hit. The Enable

Ruth Mullally and Sarah Emerson

Ireland members and supporters were also appreciative of a sculpture at the event, with its well-chosen phrases, Talk To Me, and Treat Me As An Equal, helping to promote greater public awareness, understanding and respect for people living with a disability.

Gallery continues on Page 10

Fionnuala O’Donavan (second-left), CEO, Enable Ireland, with some of the evening’s models and friends

Collette Brown

Nadia Browne and Deirdre Long

26 May 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9

10 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 26 May 2011

TAKE TWO Another look at Enable Ireland’s fashion show

Trish Whelan, Lucy Riordan, Nicola Redmond, Valerie Whelan, Nicola Donegan and Emma Scott. Pictures: Peter Doyle

Awareness, respect – and great fashion

Some of the many fashion fans and Enable Ireland’s supporters enjoying the show

Anna Molina and Elaine Nuzum

Boadicea Robinson and Fionnuala O’Donavan, CEO

Garry Morris, Enable Ireland Dun Laoghaire co-ordinator, Trish Elaine Payne

Nicola Redmond, Trish Whelan and Veronica Cavagnini

O’Brien, Deirdre Fitzgerald and Sinead Meany

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 11

ASLAN Dublin heroes make time for Champions League

Working as hard as ever, nearly 30 years on PAUL HOSFORD

NOBODY really notices a 29th birthday. It’s a bit like having a big party for a 20th or a 15th, it’s just not the done thing.

With that in mind, it would be easy for a band like Aslan, just a year shy from celebrating their 30th year as a band, to take the foot off the gas for the 2011 calendar year.

But really, that is not, and never has been, the style of the Dublin heroes.

Their voracious appetite for live shows is legendary, with Aslan arguably covering more ground now than was covered in the Showband era.

With that much effort gone into gigging, it must surely get old. Not so, says the group’s guitarist, Billy McGuinness, who, along with Christy Dignam, Joe Jewell, Alan Downey and Rodney O’Brien, will rock the Clarion in Liffey Valley this Saturday.

“Not at all. We’re about

to enter our 30th year as a band and there is only one reason for that. We gig everywhere because we love playing live. We love the buzz that we get from playing our music live.

“We play a lot of places that other bands would ignore. When you play places, like Midleton in Cork, or Donegal towns that wouldn’t get a lot of gigs, people appreciate it.

“It means that when you’re playing a bigger gig – a Vicar St, Olympia or Point for example – people will come out for it.”

The mantra of play anywhere and everywhere is one that many bands are beginning to adopt in an Irish music scene more and more reliant on live shows for both exposure and money, but most bands will never see some of the venues that Aslan have.

“I suppose the weirdest gigs we’ve ever played were in Mountjoy and

Aslan, top, Billy McGuinness, above left, and Christy Dignam Wheatfield Prisons.

“We were asking when they wanted us, the warden told us we could play whenever, the audience weren’t going anywhere.

“We also played a gig for Irish troops in Kosovo, which was odd. We really enjoyed it, but couldn’t go anywhere because there was still fighting going on.

“But really all gigs are brilliant. Even the last

time we played the Clarion, Bernard Dunne was there, we had a drink with him and that was great.”

The ability to appeal across age lines, as well as to the Irish Diaspora, are also key reasons for Aslan’s enduring stint at the top of the Irish music pile.

“The age range that we see can be nine to 90 and we see so many young people at gigs, knowing

the lyrics to our songs.

“Anywhere there’s Irish people, we can play. We did a tour of Australia last year, we were playing in Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and that’s because anywhere you go, there’s an Irish bar that will either have Crazy World or This Is on it.

“I think we’ve done everything, including break-up!

Continues on Page 12

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12 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

COMMENT Leader of the opposition reconnects with the party

A magnificent challenge for Fianna Fail

MICHEÁL MARTIN TD

FOLLOWING a difficult General Election, Fianna Fail faces a magnificent challenge in the months ahead, particularly in Dublin.

I believe that we will meet this challenge, renewing the party and reconnecting with communities across our capital city, because Fianna Fáil stems from a great tradition. It stems from a tradition where the needs of the people and the country come first. It will be no easy task, but it will be done.

I have been the leader of Fianna Fáil for less than four months and, in that period, I have travelled the length and

breadth of Ireland. I’m currently meeting members of the party and the public all across Dublin in every constituency.

The message I am getting from the thousands of members and supporters is loud and clear.

It must now be our objective to do our outmost to rectify past errors and to secure a better future for every single person on this island.

If we return Fianna Fail to the core principles that for so many years won the support and loyalty of the Irish people, we will not only renew our party, we will renew a vital, positive force in the life of our nation.

For example, in the area of education, Fianna Fáil was founded as the party

of the ordinary working person 85 years ago and became a vehicle for educational opportunity and social advancement across Ireland. Almost every major milestone in education expansion at all levels owes its origins to visionary Ministers for Education, such as Paddy Hillery and Donogh O’Malley, to name but a few. As the new leader of Fianna Fail, educational advancement for all citizens is at the core of my political philosophy.

I want Fianna Fáil to be the great party it once was and to be in touch and responsive to the needs of people in Dublin and across Ireland.

For this reason, I am determined to open up the Fianna Fáil Party and

ASLAN

30 years of music Continued from Page 11

Micheal Martin TD talking with Cllr Cormac Devlin

I want to see more young people a nd women becoming active in our organisation.

Eamon de Valera said when Fianna Fáil was founded: “We hope in particular that the young people of the country, the young men and women, who have not yet definitely affiliated themselves to any political organisation, will join Fianna Fáil and use it as

a medium through which they will give their services to the community and to the nation.”

I am determined that, in today’s Ireland, Fianna Fail will nurture and promote the involvement of more young people in politics. In Dublin this will be particularly important in the years ahead.

For people interested in making a positive differ-

ence in their community, and for those who want to improve the quality of life in this country, my message is clear: Fianna Fáil is the party of opportunity - where you can help shape policy and where you can make a real difference. Fianna Fáil wants to hear from you. Email your ideas or get information on joining the party at renewal@fiannafail.ie

“I think people like us because we’re so real.

Ever y mistake we’ve made, we’ve been honest about. People see X-Factor, and those people aren’t real.

“People see everything we’ve gone through, we’re honest that we’ve made mistakes. Christy’s book, and the Aslan book, are both very real. And then people see us give 110% to everything we do.”

At the minute, it is all systems go for Aslan, as they prepare to mark an historic 30th year in the business, looking to “tell the story of Aslan”.

These celebrations will be marked with a film, a new studio album and, possibly, a 30th anniversary gig.

Rodney O’Brien, Joe Jewell and Alan Downey

“We want the album to be perfect so we’re taking our time over it. Years ago, we’d lock ourselves away for weeks at a time to do an album, but we can now take our time over it and do days here and there.

“It would be nice to mark the 30th anniversary.”

Aslan play the Clarion Liffey Valley on Saturday, May 28, taking to the stage after the Champions League final. Tickets are €15 and available from the hotel on 01 628 5000.

On July 2, they take to the stage in Vicar St, with tickets available from Ticketmaster, priced at €33.60.

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 13

14 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY Ultimate Girl’s night out in May AN Ultimate Girl’s Night Out will be held in Embody Wellness Centre on May 27.

Free mini-massages, tarot and angel cards, five-minute make-up transformations, winetasting and cool cupcakes will all be available on the night.

Admission is free and all are welcome from 7pm.

For information, phone Grainne on 01 8076795 or find out more on www. embody.ie

LOCAL MATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZETTE CALL 60 10 240

Edited by Dawn Love

Keeping skin healthy and radiant the natural way

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O you want to be a natural beauty? With a reported 60% of what we put onto our skin absorbed into the bloodstream, it’s easy to see why Hollywood stars, such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Anniston, are big fans of natural skincare brands.

Amongst the most popular is leading German range, Dr Hauschka.

For more than 40 years Hauschka, which is free from synthetic chemical fragrances, colours and preservatives, has established itself as one of the leading natural skincare brands.

Already famed for its Rose Day Cream, Hauschka recently launched its Melissa Day Cream (€23.85) which

is designed to help combat combination skin prone to shine. Its daily moisturiser is perfect for those with oily and sensitive skin, helping it regain a healthy balance by stimulating the skin’s natural activity.

The fast-absorbing, oil-free moisturiser with lemon balm provides lasting hydration and oil control, leaving you with a balanced matte complexion. It features other ingredients, including kidney vetch and carrot designed to help smooth the skin’s surface to minimise pores, while witch hazel and revitalising daisy helps refine the skin and leave your complexion soft and even.

In addition to its Melissa Day Cream, Hauschka has also released

three new additions to its Regenerating range this summer, including Regenerating Eye Cream (€65), Regenerating Neck and Decollete Cream (€60) and Regenerating Body Moisturiser (€40).

According to Hauschka, the Regenerating Eye Cream formulation keeps the delicate skin around the eyes, which is thinner than the rest of the face, smooth and supple and minimises the onset of early wrinkles.

The company, which also includes Madonna and Julia Roberts as its devotees, says its Regenerating range helps slow down the skin’s ageing process and restores your natural radiance. Other products include its oilfree Regenerating Serum and Regenerating Day Cream.

Some 60% of what we put onto our skin is absorbed into the bloodstream, so natural products are an option for giving skin a natural glow

Tantastic

And with your skin in tip-top natural shape, it’s time to make sure its Tantastic.

Founded by Dragons’ Den success, Noelle O’Connor, TanOrganic, has is a 100% natural moisturising fake tan.

Noelle originally set about creating her range of products when she couldn’t find a 100% natural moisturising tan on the market.

“Being a pale, fairskinned, freckled Irish woman, and having worn fake tan for over 20 years, I noticed my skin was drying out prematurely.

I did not notice it on my face, as I had only ever applied fake tans to my body.

“Being a beauty therapist, I have always looked after my skin. On my quest for a sunless, tanning product that was nourishing, moisturising and healing on the skin,

Dr Hauschka Regenerating Range

I noticed there were little or none. There were very few organic tans and, on closer research, there were no 100% natural tans. Hence TanOrganic was born. I spent 17 months and a lot of cash researching and testing formulas until the final formula w a s c r a c ke d and that is now TanOrganic.”

On the increasing number of people turning to organic fake tans, Noelle says: “Consumers are becoming increasingly ingredient-conscious

these days. We are now in the same place with organic cosmetics as we were with organic food in the 1990s, and the trend is growing year on year.

“Like food, people want pure ingredients and the knowledge that what they are using is natural and organic. Many clients have allergies to mainstream tanning products and they can cause irritation, where natural and organic tans can be worn with nearly always no reactions.

100% natural TanOrganic

“Because TanOrganic is genuinely 100% natural and organic there are no synthetic ingredients in the tan. There are also no perfumes, which are the number one cause of allergies in skin care.

“I am constantly working on improving my formulae and love to get feedback from my consumers as to what they like and don’t like,” she said.

And, on people who may be dubious about trying organic tanning treatments, Noelle says: “Unfortunately, we have to educate them about the negatives of not using natural and organic, and that many ingredients in mainstream tan can be bad for the skin and cause undue irritations and allergies.”

TanOrganic is priced €34.99 per 240ml bottle.

For more information on TanOrganic visit www. tanorganic.com For details on your nearest stockist of Dr Hauschka log onto www. drhauschkaireland.ie.

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: WHEN, AND WHEN NOT, TO INTERFERE WITH FLEDGLING BIRDS AND NESTS

Time for baby birds to leave their nest H I S we e k I ’ ve received many calls regarding f ledgling birds. This morning alone, I received at least five and all from inexperienced members of the public who’ve discovered that, hey, it’s summer and it’s the time of year when birds tend to breed, with fledglings appearing in some of the most peculiar places.

Of course, all of these caring callers wanted to know how to help these cute, fluffy little “abandoned” creatures!

First of all readers, thank you so much for your calls and for your concerns regarding fledgling birds, we really do appreciate them. As a humane society, and the country’s oldest and largest animal rescue shelter, we strive to promote the compassionate treatment of all animals – baby birds included.

T

However, the fact is, the baby birds don’t need your interference.

They are not as helpless and clumsy as they look and for you, a human, to intervene is not necessarily the best course of action to take.

So, if you’re a concerned citizen who happens to come across a baby bird, here’s what you should do!

Difficult though it is…

LEAVE IT ALONE! It is not abandoned. If you discover a nest, under no circumstances should you touch or move it. This will cause the parents to abandon their babies and such an action by you could be deemed to be illegal.

A Few Facts

Young birds usually leave the nest about two weeks after hatching, just before they’re able to fly.

And round about now,

we’re nearing the end of the first batch, with the second clutch about to be laid.

The fledgling birds will have all, or at least most, of their feathers and will be mobile enough to walk, run and hop from branch to branch. They are being fed by the parent bird, who will not be far away collecting food and will not return to the babies until you, the human intruder, has gone away.

Please bear in mind that the parent bird, (and usually in the bird world it’s both mum and dad who take care of the babies) will encourage the fledglings to disperse into different areas or hideaways, but they still carry on feeding and taking care of them.

They move the babies around because they know predators, such as other birds, cats and foxes will attack them, so

Please bear in mind that the parent bird will encourage fledglings, like this baby thrush, to disperse into different areas but will still take care of them

they try to limit the risk and hide them in various locations around your home and garden. This is a natural system and it has worked successfully for thousands of years.

Do not touch them, move them, or try to “rescue” them.

If you’ve got a cat or a dog who is a danger to the baby birds, then keep your pet indoors or on a lead – this is a temporary measure, the birds will be gone in a couple of days.

And another thing …

If you come across an owl or a hawk that’s on the ground, is alert, is

standing and has feathers, even a few, do not approach. Mum and dad are nearby and teaching him to hunt for ground insects. However, if he’s still there the following day, something may be wrong, so speak to your local vet or animal rescue shelter before you intervene.

If there’s grounded waterfowl in your area – geese, ducks, etc., this is normal. They’ll head off within a few hours of hatching, so don’t worry if you spot little downy babies running around – it’s normal, but you must leave them alone.

I know members of the public have good intentions but, think about it, would you want your new-born babies taken away from you? No! Neither do the birds’ parents.

So, when should you interfere?

• If the bird is clearly in harm’s way, is on a road and there’s a danger of being knocked down, then gently move him to safety to the nearest hedge/bush/garden, but no further and then walk away.

• The bird is clearly injured/incapacitated – call your local vet or res-

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

cue shelter or the Dublin SPCA – 01-4994700 for help and advice.

• You know for a fact that both parents have been killed or are incapacitated. Again, call your nearest vet/rescue shelter for advice and help.

• If a wing appears substantially droopier than the other wing, if the bird is unable to grip with one foot or if there’s blood, then seek professional help from your vet or animal shelter.

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

16 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

OPINION An historic day in an extraordinary week for Dublin

Yes, he most certainly can!

MIMI MURRAY

IS FEIDIR Linn. Yes we can. Those were the words that sent the most rousing of cheers through an already captive audience listening to the words of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama.

He took to the stage with his wife, the First Lady, Michelle Obama, around 5.45pm on Monday and the crowd went wild for the man whose great, great, great grandfather first set off from Moneygall in County Offaly over 150 years ago in order

to seek his fortune.

The crowd had queued from around 12pm, while some hardy souls spent the night on College Green, eagerly awaiting the man who made history by becoming the first black president of the United States of America.

A cheery crowd were kept upbeat by an array of Irish artists, actors and sports people, all introduced by RTE’s Ryan Tubridy.

Whilst waiting for the main man, several musicians, including Ryan Sheridan, Imelda May, Westlife and the unstop-

pable Jedward warmed up the crowd, which was good as there was a wind blowing on the day that made the First Lady’s hair resemble the blond duo’s wacky quiffs.

The crowd waited with bated breath, wondering if they were going to have an opportunity to shake the hand of someone who has made history.

Tubridy, who spoke excitedly about Obama’s visit, kept giving the crowd regular updates on his impending arrival.

In the meantine Daniel Day Lewis, Stephen Rea and Brendan Gleeson

said a few words or recited poetry. Saoirse Ronan also drew huge cheers from the crowd.

The President’s seal, seen so often on television and in the movies, was placed on the speaking platform and the audience knew it was almost time.

Then, quite suddenly Taoiseach Enda Kenny and his wife Fionnuala walked on to the stage, and the weather-beaten masses knew the wait was almost over.

Kenny gave a rousing speech and looked as proud as punch as he

introduced the most powerful man in the world to the waiting Irish audience.

Barack and Michelle walked on stage, holding hands and looking happy and relaxed. Perhaps it was the drop of the black stuff that he had sampled earlier in Moneygall but Obama couldn’t stop grinning and protectively rubbed Michelle’s shoulder as Kenny finished his speech.

The chant “Obama, Obama, Obama” rippled through the crowd and finally everyone got their first words from one of the world’s great orators.

“Hello, Dublin, hello, Ireland. My name is Barack Obama – of the Moneygall Obamas. And I've come home to find the apostrophe that we lost somewhere along the way.” Yes, the man certainly knows how to charm an audience.

From there he went on to say that both our nations have faced great trials in recent years, “including recessions so severe that many of our people are still trying to fight their way out”.

However, he left the audience with this parting shot: “Ireland… if anybody ever tells you that your problems are too big, or your challenges are too great, that we can't

President Barack Obama charms the Dublin crowd

do something, that we shouldn't even try, think about all that we've done together. Remember that, whatever hardships the winter may bring, springtime is always just around the corner. And if they keep on arguing with you,

just respond with a simple creed: Is féidir linn.

Yes, we can. Yes, we can.

Is féidir linn.”

With that note the crowd started to disperse, looking weather-beaten but with a lighter spring to their step.

GazetteContacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251 Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com

General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com

Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com

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

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

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

Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com

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

Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazetteGAMING GAMING WIN a Kinect sensor T for Xbox

HE Gazette is continuing its incredible Xbox Kinect sensor competition this week, as we give away the second of four prizes.

Kinect for Xbox 360 brings games and entertainment to life in extraordinary new ways, without using a controller With Kinect, technology evaporates, letting the natural magic in all of us shine. Controller-free gaming means full-body play.

Kinect responds to how you move. So, if you have to kick, then kick. If you have to jump, then jump. You already know how to play.

All you have to do is get off the couch, “plug in” to your Xbox 360 console, and jump in to experience game play.

Kinect Sports allows you to say goodbye to the buttons and controllers, and play six full sports games just as you always

have, using your entire body.

Become the heavyweight champ of the living room with boxing, or take to the sand with some high-flying beach volleyball action.

Everyone With soccer, field and track events, and even bowling, Kinect Sports has something for everyone.

Meanwhile, Kinect Adven-

tures will have you jumping, dodging, and kicking your way through 20 pulse-pounding adventures, set in exotic locations around the world.

Kinect Adventures gets you to work with your friends and navigate through roaring rapids, challenge obstacle courses, and even save a leaky underwater laboratory.

The spirit of adventure awaits!

WIN A KINECT SENSOR AND TWO KINECT GAMES

LAST WEEK’S WINNER:

To be in with a chance to win a Kinect Sensor and two Kinect games, to use with your XBox 360 console, just answer the following question.

How many adventures are contained in Kinect Adventures?

Post your answer to Kinect Competition, Gazette Group Newspapers, Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan, Co Dublin.

Alternatively, you can email competition@gazettegroup.com. All entries must be received before Wednesday, June 1.

Congratulations to Clive Stone of Dublin 15, who was the Week One winner of the Xbox Kinect Sensor and games

18 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs MERCEDES BENZ HAS NEW VAN FINANCE DEAL:

MERCEDES-BENZ in Ireland has launched a new van purchase finance scheme, which opens up a line of funding that would assist small businesses planning to upgrade their transport fleet.

The finance scheme has been designed to unblock the lending logjam that has prevented many owners from acquiring or replacing their van fleet.

This new scheme provides finance over periods from three to five years, upon payment of a “modest” deposit. Confined to the purchase of new vehicles only, the scope of the plan can also be extended to include maintenance costs. Mercedes-Benz van dealers can facilitate buyers by agreeing a residual value that would be placed on each vehicle after the finance term has expired.

NEW SAAB DEAL WITH CHINA’S PANGDA AUTOMOBILE: IT’S been a difficult few weeks for Saab and for its owners the Dutch Spyker Cars NV. Last week, they had a deal with one Chinese investor, which fell through at the last minute.

The latest news is that China’s Pangda Automobile Trade Co Ltd has entered into a deal, which it said would secure Saab’s medium-term funding needs and with EU approval.

The deal involves an agreement to buy Saab vehicles for as much as €45 million and to take a 24% equity stake in Spyker for a total of €65 million.

The new Lexus CT200h is a premium smaller car that has a quality-build feeling to it in terms of smoothness. With an entry price of €28,980 it’s still competitive in price and running costs with some of the other turbo-diesels on the market.

Lexus hatches CT200h MICHAEL MORONEY has been out in the new Lexus CT200h, which is a compact, hybrid petrol hatchback and here he gives his verdict EXUS and quality have been synonymous, but that emphasis has been at the more expensive and bigger car end of the market. Enter the CT200h, a car with more compact dimensions that’s still comfortable on the quality street.

This new car is a hatchback that retains the Lexus premium badge. Lexus see the car as a solid competitor to smaller diesel cars, where running-cost efficiency is so important.

I had seen photographs of the car long before I took it for a lengthy test drive. The photographs didn’t give the feeling for its size and style – it was a little smaller than

L

SPECS: LEXUS CT200H HYBRID Top speed: 180 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 10.3 sec Economy: 26.3 km/litre (3.8l/100km) CO2 emissions: 87g/km Road Tax Band: A (€104) Scrappage Eligible: Yes Warranty: 3 years Entry Price: €28,450

I had expected, a little less SUV or crossover in appearance.

This is a neat, five-door hatchback that has all of the features you expect, topped off with Lexus smooth and very quiet driving style. To me, it’s a real competitor with some of the current diesel-powered small hatchback cars.

Like all Lexus models, there’s loads of technology in the CT200h. I would prefer if they could think of a better name – there’s no ring to the CT200h, it just doesn’t roll easily off the tongue.

The CT200h is a petrol hybrid car designed to compete against the likes of the diesel-powered Audi A3, BMW 1 Series and even the Volkswagen Golf. Lexus has set new and impressive petrolefficiency standards with this car.

The 1.8-litre petrol engine is incredibly smooth to drive. The hybrid system engages without effort to give a power boost that’s lively but not trend-setting.

But you will notice

when you want the engine and hybrid drive to work together; the car sort of roars at you, but not in a strong way, more as a way of telling you that it’s doing some work. That’s the only time that you realise that there’s an engine under the bonnet.

The car scores well in terms of economy.

With an achievable figure of 26.3 km/litre (3.8l/100km) this is the envy of diesel power.

In terms of running costs, the CT200h is a match for modern diesel engines.

Add to that the low annual tax rate of €104, plus a once-a-year service or 10,000km, and you have a car that can com-

pete in cost terms with the diesel competition.

And all that is achieved with a 0 to 100km/hr rating of 10.3 seconds – that’s fast enough for most of us. That’s a shade slower than the BMW 118d, Audi A3 2.0-litre TD Sportback and the VW Golf 2.0-litre TD, but there’s only a mere second in the difference.

I took the CT200h for some lengthy drives covering almost 600km through a range of roads.

The outstanding feature is its smoothness. The comfort is good, if not a shade soft, on some of the smaller rural roads – that’s not really a complaint.

The car drives through an automatic gearbox

that’s controlled by a short stubby lever on the centre console. I found that it was very sensitive and took a little getting used to, and then it was a pleasure.

The car is smaller than I had expected from the photographs. I found that the headroom front and rear was a bit tight.

Rear legroom is not over-generous either, but that’s the same for the BMW 118d, with which it competes.

This car can truly compete in purchase price, and running costs, with the diesel competition.

The car is competitively priced at €28,450 or £23,485 in Nothern Ireland, but it just doesn’t seem to look expensive.

Audi Ireland turns the sod for new Audi dealership in Sligo AUDI Ireland turned the sod for a new Audi dealership in Sligo scheduled to open at the end of the year. Audi Sligo will be owned and operated by Kevin and Neil Connolly, who have invested €5 million in the dealership, which hopes to create 20 new jobs in the

Sligo region.

The future Sligo dealership is major part of a five-year investment plan by Audi in Ireland to become the number one prestige car brand in Ireland by 2015. Audi is undertaking a restructuring of the franchise retail network with

a collective investment of €80 million over the next three years. This will result in a nationwide network of 10 dedicated Audi dealerships servicing the whole country.

Andrew Doyle, managing director, Audi Ireland said: “Together with our

franchise partners, we will continue to make significant long-term investments in people, facilities and systems, here in Ireland. Today’s announcement is an important part of our drive to become the number one prestige car brand in Ireland by 2015.”

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY STRAFFAN: FIVE-BEDROOM HOME FOR ASKING PRICE OF €560,000

A Gate to comfort and security

Number 2, Texas Lane, Malahide

MALAHIDE: ASKING PRICE OF €545,000

Round up a property coup on Texas Lane PROPERTY Team Noel Kelly Auctioneers are bringing 2 Texas Lane, Chalfont, Malahide, a four-bedroom semi-detached family home offering bright and generously proportioned accomodation and a flexible layout, to the market with an asking price of €545,000.

The property has been extended thoughout and is situated in a much-sought after location.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with guest wc, which has a cermaic tiled floor, garage conversion with wooden floors, two reception rooms and an extended kitchen/breakfast area which has fitted wall and floor units - all electrical appliances are included in the sale.

The landing offers access to the attic, and the upper level features the four bedrooms in the property, the larger of which have built-inn wardrobes, while all have timber flooring.

The family bathroom has a tiled floor and walls and a Triton T90i shower.

Thr garden of Texas Lane has a deck area, a timber garden shed, and is fully walled.

To the front, there is a cobblelock driveway as well as a side entrance.

Located beside Malahide estuary, the property is within walking distance of Malahide village, local schools and the Dart station.

Viewing is by appointment, which can be arranged by contacting Darren Kelly of Property Team Noel Kelly Auctioneers on 01 8462752.

COONAN Estate Agents are bringing Number 52, Straffan Gate in Straffan village to the market for an asking price of €560,000.

The property is a fivebedroom dual-aspect detached house, located in a sought-after development in the heart of Straffan village.

Finished to the highest standards and presented in pristine condition throughout, this property boasts large, bright spacious living accommodation.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall, with reception area and guest bathroom, sitting room with bay window,

Number 52, Straffan Gate has an asking proce of €560,000

feature fireplace with a granite hearth, dining room with a double bay window, and a kitchen/ dining room with solid wooden f loor, patio door to garden, recessed lights, wall and floor units, a granite work-

top, NEFF extractor fan, hob and double oven, and an integrated dishwasher.

The first f loor features a large master bedroom with built-in wardrobe and en suite with shower, four more

bedroom with builtin wardrobes, and the family bathroom.

The property also has wooden, double-glazed windows throughout, stainless-steel light fittings and sockets, a pressurised shower sys-

tem and a maintenancefree exterior.

The property features a large south-facing garden and a cobble-lock driveway with parking spaces for up to three cars.

Located only a short walk from Straffan Village and only a short drive to the University town of Maynooth, Celbridge and Clane, and only a 40-minute drive to Dublin City, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Coonan Estate Agents can be contacted to arrange a viewing of Straffan Gate on 01-6286128 or 01-6288400.

ADAMSTOWN: ATTRACTIVE PAYMENT PLAN OPTIONS AVAILABLE

Discerning buyers drawn to bargains FOR discerning property buyers looking for real value, Castlethorn’s popular development at Adamstown Square in Lucan is well worth a visit.

The price of a two-bed apartment is €135,000, and it boasts an extremely high level of specification, is located close to the main attractions of Adamstown, including local shops, schools and its train station.

For those looking for a larger home, there are new, three-bed duplex units located on the second and third floors, with over 1,000 sq ft accommodation and a spacious balcony at an asking price of €165,000.

Similarly-sized ground-floor, three-bed duplexes with private amenity areas start from €185,000. In addition, there are a small number

of three- and four-bed houses available from €235,000 and €249,950 respectively.

In total there are six fully-fitted showhomes on view at Adamstown Square, ranging from two-beds right up to fourbed townhouses, so there is plenty of choice for the price-conscious homehunter.

Adamstown Square has an excellent level of specification in all the homes. All master bedrooms are very generous in size and are fitted with en suites.

In addition, purchasers will benefit from modern, fitted kitchens, complete with oven/hob, fridgefreezer, dishwasher and washer/dryer. All homes are designed to comply with Sustainable Energy Ireland’s House of Tomorrow programme in terms

There are a number of home types at Adamstown Square

of their energy- efficient ratios and the BER rating of each home is very high.

Taking cognisance of the difficulties and concern’s that today’s house purchasers may be facing, Castlethorn is providing a wide range of options that will assist the homeowner in purchasing their new home, including a home-

deposit advance option, which lets purchasers reserve their home today with no deposits payable until closing, and Easi steps is also available, which lets purchasers move in today and pay monthly instalments for a period of up to two years.

These instalments are then taken off the purchase price of the home

when the purchaser closes the sale.

The Adamstown marketing suite and show units are open everyday, weekends from 3-5 and weekdays from 10-5.

For further information on the great value available at Adamstown Square phone Leah’ys 6011800 or log onto www. castlethorn.ie

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Sarah Carberry, Secretchic.ie

No secret to Sarah’s online dress success SARAH Carberry, of Secretchic.ie, an Irish Online Designer Dress Rental service, grew up in Malahide and now lives in Portmarnock.

She went to school in Scoil Iosa in Malahide and then to The Institute on Lesson Street. Sarah started her career in PR six years ago with McGovern Public Relations, one of the longest established marketing and PR firms in Ireland, and is an industry she is still involved with. “PR is a passion and I love what I do but, like most girls, I love fashion!”

Two years ago she was at various events and weddings and was spending a lot of money for dresses she usually only wore once. “I thought to myself, there has to be a way you can rent dresses.” But, at that time, she was not aware of any other options. It was then she came up with the idea on an online rental store – and www.secretchic.ie was born. No one seemed to be doing it in Ireland, but it is big business in the USA and UK. Secretchic.ie features casual and evening styles (sizes 6-16) from labels such as Just Cavalli, Vivienne Westwood, John Galliano, By Malene Birger, Juicy Couture, D&G and many more.

SAVING FOR YOUR CHILDREN Q – We have two girls aged seven and five.

We have not made any provision for their education, though they will both be going to a non-fee paying local secondary school. But already the extra-curricular activity costs are mounting up and we need to motivate ourselves to start saving. What do you suggest ? Colette – Lucan Co Dublin A – According to a recent UK insurance company study, it will cost over € 246,000 from the time your child is born until the time they finish their third level education. You have already spent a great deal of money on your girls – since they were born, probably, around € 130,000, but are unaware of it! €10,000 a year per child is the estimated ongoing cost. It is no wonder you cannot save.

Q&A

However, it is not going to get any better for the next few years so you MUST start saving, and now.

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

A: A singer – mind you I don’t

Q: What air carrier do you use when going on holidays?

A: I am not really loyal to any

have a note in my head.

particular air carrier. I always try to get the best deal I can

Q: What was your first job?

A: Worked in a coffee shop in

A recent bank report stated third-level costs alone, from start to finish, at € 42,000 for ONE child, and that’s without the fees.

To put this into perspective, if you save the Sarah Carberry, of Secretchic.ie

Malahide.

Q: What car do you drive?

A: Mercedes

for you. My favourite drink is a Cosmo… yum, love them.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: Blew it on clothes.

Q: Can you swim?

A: Yes – I love it and should do

Q: How many people do you have to talk with every day?

A: Up to 20 people.

it more often.

Q: How many times each week do you go to the ‘hole in the wall’?

A: Too many!

Q: What is the greatest thrill of your working week?

A: To hear someone loved the dress or hat that they rented.

Q: And what part of your job do you dislike the most?

A: There isn’t really much I dislike. There will always be likes and dislikes of running your own company, but that is what makes it interesting.

Q: Would you ever bungee jump?

A: I used to want to do one but now I don’t think I would – way too scared.

Q: Do you play any sport?

A: I run and go to Curves and Hot Yoga

Q: What is your favourite food and drink?

A: I don’t really have a favourite food. I love most food and, in particular, food that is bad

Q: How many times each year do you shop for clothes?

A: I shop for clothes on a regu-

current € 140 monthly Child Benefit for your five-

Q: Where is your favourite holiday destination?

A: Italy – amazing, love the food, scenery and the people.

Really interesting place.

Q: What other job in the whole world would you really like to have?

A: I would like to possibly be a

lar basis.

marine biologist.

Q: What is the name of your favourite shop?

A: River Island and Forever

Q: When do you wish to retire?

A: I am not sure.

21 – I can’t choose which is my favourite!

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

A: I am not sure but I will have

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Over 20, and I don’t even

to be doing something, as I get bored quite easily.

wear most of them.

and Overall Business of the Year accolades at the Wexford Business Awards in 2010.

This continued recognition is illustrated by Chevron Training being shortlisted for three prestigious awards at the 2011 Wexford Business Awards, namely the Wexford Training Provider Award, Wexford Green

Business Award and the Wexford Employer of the Year Award.

Innovation

Chevron Training is honoured to have been shortlisted for each of these awards, as they acknowledge the individuals and businesses that represent the entrepreneurialism, innovation,

diversity and the talent in Wexford businesses.

Chevron Training’s innovative approach towards the delivery of training programmes is illustrated by their significant investment in the development of Ireland’s first fleet of mobile training units.

These next-generation training venues allow

year-old, add € 110 per month to it and keep saving until your child is 18, at 3% interest rate each year, over those 13 years, the monthly saving of €250 will amount to that target of €42,000, and that’s just for ONE child.

Therefore, you have to plan and plan to save.

Just like Christmas, birthdays and anniversaries – they come around every year and you have to provide for them. You certainly do not want to be the parent that stops your daughters going on that special school trip, those two weeks in Irish College, that summer camp – even that hockey stick costs at least € 70!

I would recommend that you immediately start putting the Child Benefit into a Regular Saver account (saving between € 100 and € 1,000 per month for 12 months and attracting rates up to 4% - most deposit takers offer them) and when you have accumulated at least € 2,000, deposit this into a high-yielding, 12-month fixed rate

Chevron Training launch innovative mobile training units CHEVRON Training, Ireland’s largest private training provider, is renowned as the leading provider of renewable energy and environmental training courses.

Chevron Training’s career-focused approach to the provision of training courses was instrumental in securing the coveted Best Training Company

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

the practical renewable energy and environmental training programmes to be delivered in any location nationwide, thus facilitating increased access to further education.

For further information about Chevron Training courses, lo-call 1890 252 647 or visit www.chevrontraining.ie

account.

Look for savings on everything from careful budgeting to looking for bargains – everywhere.

Remember also the Money Doctor mantra – STOP SPENDING, AND IF YOU MUST, ENSURE BEST VALUE. Ask yourself when buying a product or service, do you really need this and, if you do, is there a better or cheaper alternative ? The best of luck with your saving.

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

22 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel The west is the best for a romantic getaway trip Travel to the stunning north of Spain on a luxury train this summer on the Gran Lujo Transcantabrian

IMAGES of Hercule Poirot, cocktail hour and afternoon tea spring to mind when luxury train travel is mentioned. This mode of transport is a stunning way to see Northern Spain this summer, with several options available to the discerning traveller.

From May to September, the luxury CrossCantabrian train will travel between San Sebastian and Santiago de Compostela, an eight-day journey, with seven nights on board.

The Gran Lujo Transcantabrian is one of the five best tourist trains in the world, and the oldest in Spain. It has been transformed into a spectacular and seductive five-star train-hotel. It has seven sleeping cars, four lounge cars and a kitchen car. There is an attractive panoramic lounge containing televisions, library and video library, a restaurant car and tea salon where the gastronomic specialities of each area through which the train passes are served. The four sleeping cars contain 14 elegant Privilege Suites, each of which boasts a large double bed, ample wardrobe space for clothing and suitcases, a small lounge, two TV sets, a video player, a games console, a music centre, a computer with free internet connection, cordless telephone, double air conditioning, minibar, and a full bathroom with hydromassage shower and steam sauna.

The La Robla Express in another train that has been improved and upgraded for 2011 and offers travellers fascinating visits to the worldrenowned Romanesque towns of Carrion de los Condes, Fromista and Villalcazar de Sirga. The trip, which takes four days and three nights operates from March to November.

The Las Robla Express carries 54 passengers in nine coaches, with comfortable lounge cars, and a bar with large projection screens. Sleeping compartments have couchette style fold-out beds, wardrobe, music and telephone connections and bathrooms with hydromassage shower.

For maximum comfort, the train remains stationary overnight in the stations its visits.

Further information from www.trenesturisti cosdelujo.com

MIMI MURRAY

IRISH weather, as we all know, is not to be relied upon. When Americans and Italians holiday here, they come well-prepared, not batting an eyelid when the downpour inevitably ensues.

However, for we Irish holidaying at home, it is another opportunity to screw up our noses, give the grey skies the evil eye, and curse the country of our birth.

The French and Germans throw on the windcheaters, and nod knowingly at each other when another torrent threatens, but we Irish despair as yet another trip falls foul of the weather.

For that reason, it is proper order to book yourself in somewhere luxurious, so that, when the inevitable happens, the plush indoor surroundings will more than make up for the goings on outside.

That’s not to say that we can’t button up and head for the open air on a grand, soft day – just like our foreign visitors – but for us Irish, who are so used to the constant grey and drizzle, we just expect the gods of sunshine and blue skies to shine on us when we decide to take a trip at home.

For this reason, my husband and I decided

to stay somewhere rather nice when we took a trip to the west, earlier this month.

The Atlantic coast can be stunning, but the ocean also likes to make its presence felt from time to time, as we were about to discover on our romantic weekend.

On our first night we stayed in Gregan’s Castle, which is situated in the heart of The Burren, and is surrounded by stunning gardens, with breathtaking views of Galway Bay. We arrived early on Friday, to be greeted by our host, Simon Haden. We

friendly host in Gregan’s said that should I find myself being lifted by a swift gust, to make sure to take the hubby with me.

He was only half-joking.

It was back to the hotel for some much-needed warming up, and a predinner drink, before taking our table at the pretty restaurant, which, again, had lovely views of Galway bay.

The menu seemed adventurous, but my husband and I were not prepared for what was about to come. Why does this place not have a Michelin Star, we mused?

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

‘We retired early, but the Atlantic made an almighty racket that night – but that made us appreciate the plush surroundings and our open fire all the more’ --------------------------------------------------------

were taken straight to our extremely spacious room, which had very pretty views of both The Burren and the ocean.

We decided not to rest on our laurels, and to make good use of the slightly blue sky on offer.

The Cliffs of Moher are stunning, but a word of warning – wear winter clothes, even if it is the height of summer.

The wind whips around the headland, and our

The chef, Mickael Viljanens, who is Finnish, has been with the hotel for six years. Simon says that Michelin are watching them at the moment, but no stars have appeared just yet. I am certain this will be resolved in time.

My husband’s starter of cheese and onion was a delicious broth and cheese combo that was warming on a chilly day, and my lobster was delicious.

The pigeon, which I ordered with some trepidation, as it was to be cooked very pink, was stunning. I am still dreaming about it. My hubby’s lamb was equally good, and all of the flavours are experimental, but work really well together.

A pre dessert of lime panna cotta with fennel was extraordinary, and the entire meal was a triumph. I would highly recommend this place to gourmands looking for somewhere fantastic in the west.

After a delicious meal, we took a seat beside the open fire to pore over the Queen’s visit, before retiring early.

On Saturday, we awoke to torrential rain and gales, and a surfing lesson which we had booked for that day was looking extremely unlikely.

My brave other half decided he was going to give it a lash anyway, but I decided the open fires and beautiful views at our next hotel, Moy House, were calling to me instead.

He went off to Lahinch beach for a lesson with Ben’s Surf Clinic, as I reviewed the Saturday papers, while sipping a peppermint tea.

We were staying in the Well Room, which features an original underground well, and a free-

A lovely break in Gregan’s

standing bath tub, as well as an open fire – all you could need for a romantic weekend in the west of Ireland.

Our well-lit conservatory offered amazing views of the ocean, and the dinner area also overlooks the sea, and we were to be treated to a sunset of sorts after the weather cleared – slightly.

Salad of crab and Dublin Bay prawns was very nice, as were his scallops. My lamb was delicious, and my husband said the turbot was a lovely light dish. The staff were really attentive and lovely as well.

We retired early, but the Atlantic had other ideas for us, and it made an almighty racket that night, but that made us appreciate the plush surroundings and our open fire all the more.

For information on both properties, see www. irelands-blue-book.ie.

R1

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Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs Mary Black performing at Bridge House Hotel in June MARY Black is back and performing in the Bridge House Hotel in Offaly this June.

The singer has just released her new album after a six-year gap and to celebrate, the hotel is offering guests the chance to dine, see the show and stay overnight. At her concert in the Bridge House Hotel, Mary will give a taste of her new material along with some classic hits including No Frontier, Woman’s Heart and many more.

Tickets are available for €25, but guests can treat themselves to an overnight stay and dinner in the Bridge House’s Michelin Guide recommended restaurant, including a ticket to the show for €109 per person sharing.

Also coming to the Bridge House Hotel on August 1 is a night with the Wolfe Tones. Tickets are available for €25 or stay overnight with dinner and a ticket to the show for €99 per person sharing. For more information, contact the Bridge House Hotel on 057 932 5600 or visit www.bridgehouse.com.

Mustard Seed Hotel offers a special Box Room offer

Castle (above, and below) was followed with an equally delightful break at Moy House (below, right)

THE Mustard Seed Hotel in Limerick has a special Box Room Offer running at the moment. One of the Blue Book’s stunning hotels, the package allows guests to stay in one of the smaller, but perfectly formed rooms at a reduced rate. Relax during the evening and avail of the hotels excellent overnight rate.

Rooms include en suite with power shower, TV, telephone and regular size double bed. Rate also include full Irish breakfast. Four course dinner costs €63, or there are special value menus available. Rooms cost €65 per person sharing. For more details contact 069 68508 or email mustard@indigo.ie.

Park Hotel offers two-night package during The Tall Ship Races THE Tall Ships are set to sail into Dungarven this June, with three extraordinary days of festival taking place, and the Park Hotel is the perfect place to stay in order to be in the thick of the action. After three exciting days from June 30 to July 3, a Parade of Sail will take place along the Waterford and Wexford estuary, as Ireland once again hosts The Tall Ships Races.

This is one of the most spectacular and colourful events in the world, and Waterford is gearing up to host over 70 majestic Tall Ships; 1,500 sail trainees and an anticipated 500,000 maritime, music and festival fans on the quays of Ireland’s oldest city. The Park Hotel has a two night package with full Irish breakfast each morning from €129pps, subject to availability. For information visit www.flynnhotels.com.

24 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT THE HELIX 01 700 7000 YOPS and friends

MUSIC returns to The Helix with a delightful performance from Young Orchestral Pops orchestra, and friends. The Young Orchestral Pops – also known as Yops – will be demonstrating the skills that has seen them performing in such notable venues as Dublin Castle, the Salt mines in Krakow and St Nicholas’ church in Prague, and will be joining with St Clare’s PS children’s choir, Harold’s Cross, and flute group, Flutistics, to perform a selection of light classical, popular and traditional favourites With tickets priced at €12, the concert starts at 3pm on Sunday, May 29.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Time Warp

TAKE2 Performing Arts School will draw upon the members’ considerable talents to present Time Warp – A Trip And Tweet through the decades.

Using song, dance and performance, the Take2 members will present a memorable trip through time, presenting some memorable events and eras with ease, giving the audience something to think – and Tweet – about. Time Warp runs at 6pm on Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29, with admission priced €12.50/€8.50.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Bealtaine 2011

“You better think how to hide the evidence of a house party before mom comes home ...” Greg (Zachary Gordon) temporarily has the

THE annual festival that commemorates older members of the community, Bealtaine is once again being commemorated at Draiocht with a range of events, before drawing to a close on Tuesday, May 31. With a wide-ranging programme of events, Draiocht has imaginatively marked and celebrated the wit, wisdom, skills and contribution of our elders, with events in everything from cinema to dance to highlight the importance of older citizens. To see the remaining events, and to help mark Bealtaine, see www.draiocht.ie.

advantage over his older brother, and chief tormentor, Rodrick (Devon Bostick), in an inoffensive new family film

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Gala Summer Concerts

WITH summer just a ray of sunshine away, the Pavilion Theatre plays host to Dun Laoghaire School of Music, who are hosting their 18th annual gala summer concerts, marking a musical treat for all.

With students ranging from the very young to mature musicians, the School will showcase some of the varied activities and musical styles studied and practised, all presented in a delightful programme that will cover a wide range of music, ushering in the summer in style. The concerts will be held at 5pm and 7.30pm, on Friday, May 27, with admission priced at €16, €12 and €9.50.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Grumpy Old Women

THESE ladies are not to be messed with, as they are treading the (creaking) boards to bring some middleaged mayhem to life and settle some scores they have with aging, men, the way things work and much more, in bad-tempered, contrary and hilarious ways.

They don’t come much grumpier than Adele King, Flo McSweeney and Una Crawford O’Brien, who are presenting their version of the hit West End show with a distinctly Irish version. Grumpy Old Women is running until Saturday, May 28, with tickets priced from €25 to €30.

Not awesome/awful Kate’s heavyweight opinion squares up to A Wimpy Kid – but, she says, the kid’s not brilliant, but he’s all right ...

Q KATE CROWLEY

WHILE older Gazette viewers may rejoice at the release of The Hangover: Part 2 – Sorry folks, that’s not what I’m reviewing.

Instead, as tempting as it is to wander along with shmucks with bucks and drinks, I’m going to wimp out, and talk about Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules, instead.

After all, it’s been a while since we’ve had a kid movie, so, let’s tag along with an Americanstyle “wimpy” kid ...

To use its full title, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules is the sequel to an earlier children’s film which, being 103, I haven’t seen, which means I’m approaching this with fresh, if somewhat lined, eyes.

In a somewhat busy film, a young kid Greg (Zachary Gordon) is having a typically awful time with his older brother,

FILM OF THE WEEK: Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2 +++ (G) 98 mins Director: David Bowers Starring: Zachary Gordon, Devon Bostick, Rachael Harris, lots and lots of ordinary children, US movie-style

OUR VERDICT: ALTHOUGH, perhaps, a little baffling to older viewers who may have forgetten the trials and tribulations of trying to fit in at school, and deal with older/younger siblings, as well as being steeped in Americana, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules is okay. Neither brilliant nor awful, it’s a middling film that should entertain well enough, until something better comes along ...

the much-hated Rodrick (Devon Bostick), whose sole purpose in life seems to be to torment him. So far, so older brother.

Greg’s life is hard enough, seeing as he’s firmly locked into his school’s nerd squad; a gang comprising the usual suspects of Fat Kid, Indian Transfer Student, Bizarre Geek, and so on.

Compared to this bunch of carefree “losers”, Greg is positively normal, but he just can’t get along with Rodrick.

When their parents disappear for a weekend, leaving the boys behind

to bond (social workers can step back from the rescue wagon, as I should point out that Rodrick’s old enough to be Greg’s responsible guardian for a few days – in theory, at least), an inevitable house party sees the house filled with unruly teens, while the geeks also use Greg as their Trojan horse to get inside, and chaos ensues.

The next day, with their parents’ inevitable call to say they’re coming home early, the boys have to frantically cover up the evidence of the party, and just about get away with it, too, earning Greg

some respect from his big brother.

For a while. But, Ferris Bueller-types they are not; lacking that character’s guile, the party is soon uncovered, and the boys are immediately back to their battling selves, with Greg trying to become cool at school, and Rodrick trying to impress with his band.

Events roll along, all leading up towards a climactic talent show that both brothers want to win. Now, how can Greg impress with a magic act that might make Paul Daniels hesitate, and is Rodrick really someone that his band still want playing along in their chance for a big break?

Perhaps it’s time for “a wimpy kid” to show that other people don’t know the things he can really do, and that he can even impress his older brother.

Now, that really would be magic ...

Despite my great age

and immediately obvious wisdom, I confess that I’m still permanently baffled by the American grade system, or how their schools work, or how or why the kids in these films are always obssessed with breaking out of their school’s caste/social strata system, so, in my worst nu-speak, I can’t find many of these situations “relatable”.

It’s all harmless enough family fare; predictable and inoffensive, but I imagine that plenty of children will find it amusing enough – though not, I’m sure, to be really great.

On the plus side, even though it feels like a glorified TV movie, rather than a must-see children’s film, at least it’s not A) another lame computer animated film; B) presented in clumsily implemented 3D; and C) is unlikely to give any older viewers a headache.

Or a hangover.

26 May 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 25

Talking about Mona make Microsoft’s a brisk debut Skype deal MUSIC: ONES TO WATCH

ROB HEIGH news@gazettegroup.com

ADAM MAGUIRE

IN WHAT is one of the biggest ever tech deals, Microsoft has bought video and voice chatting service, Skype, for €8 billion.

The deal raised plenty of eyebrows, and is sure to have left Google and Facebook, both of whom were rumoured to be interested, too, scratching their heads.

So, what does Microsoft want with Skype?

There are plenty of ways to chat with people online, but Skype is one of the best.

Over the years, it has developed a robust system to let people talk via voice and video calls, and it even rivals standard landline phones when it comes to quality.

Microsoft will use this as a feature to add to its own products. It will likely become a built-in feature of Windows. and even the Xbox 360 console in the future.

Skype will integrate well with the webcams Microsoft sells, and it will probably tie in with Microsoft’s mobile phone platform eventually too.

Millions of users Skype has more than 660 million registered users of the service and, while Skype has a free option, a handful of them pay to gain extra features, such as calls to landlines.

Microsoft will likely try to encourage those users to try out other things it makes in the future.

Talk is social Microsoft has not done too well in social media so far – Facebook, and Twitter, have stolen the

show, there.

While Skype is not a social network in itself, it is certainly full of potential as a part of a wider social network in the future.

If Microsoft can integrate Skype into a website of its own, it could gain an edge over others on the market

Playing defence Reports were swirling around in recent weeks that Facebook and Google wanted to strike deals with Skype to integrate the product into services they already had.

Microsoft, which sees both these companies as its main online rivals, swooped to snatch up Skype before anyone else could. In the long run, it might prove to be the smartest move they have made in a long time.

HP Photosmart Premium c310a The HP Photosmart Premium c310a (above) packs in a whole host of features that will make you wonder if you have a computer, as opposed to a printer, as it is a “web connected” printer.

This device’s unique

selling point is its direct access to smartphone-like apps, which offer unique and printable content that can be downloaded and installed straight onto the printer, meaning you do not need a computer to be connected, and offers some novel features and handy resources.

For example, one app will let you print off pictures of cartoon characters for children to colour in; another will let you print off maps, and so on.

The printer is also AirPrint-ready, meaning it will print documents and files directly from an iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad, without any setting up required.

Of course, you can still print something the “oldfashioned way” – it is easy to connect to a computer, or even across a network, while the device also accepts USB keys and SD cards at the front.

The device is quick and quiet and, as the name suggests, it does a good job of photos, too. It is a bit pricey, though, and may not appeal to everyone. The HP Photosmart Premium is available online for €200 at www. store.apple.com/ie.

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

MANAGED by the guru behind the rise of Suede, and with a safe pair of hands on the mixing desk in the form of Muse and Foo Fighters producer, Rich Costey, the self-recorded and self-produced, self-titled debut album from Nashville’s Mona finally hits the streets this week.

Having been tipped as ones to watch since last autumn, the Tennessee tyros first platter arrives with 11 tracks that drip with attitude.

The immense weight that comes from the NME, MTV and BBC

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voting you as ones to watch in 2011 hangs in the background, but you sense that there is something in the mix that might just see Mona rise above the hype.

The album does not hang about in making its point – clocking in at a brisk 35 minutes – that this is a band packed with an infectious energy and the tunes to drive it home.

Lead tracks, like Listen To Your Love, and Trouble On The Way, show their straightforward rock leanings, but Lines In The Sand demonstrate that Mona already know their way around an anthem.

Mona are releasing their debut album

As with all good debuts, the question is, where do they go from here?

They have a formula that does not need tinkering with; their power pop/alt rock shapes will have an immediate audience, and their support slot at Slane next weekend will give them a shot at a wider base than their recent gig at Whelan’s allowed.

Comparisons will endure with Kings of Leon – the Followills also being from Mona’s

home state of Tennessee.

There is a certain similarity, but they have more in common with Rocket From The Crypt – propulsive rock delivered with a snarl, and hearts-on-sleeves, and looking like they are the coolest gang in town.

Given the space and time to develop their obvious strengths, there’s every chance that they will achieve their intention of being the purveyors of romantic rock‘n’roll for city folk for years to come.

GAZETTE

26 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 26 May 2011

DUN LAOGHAIREclassifieds

To advertise, call us now on 01 60 10 240 Email us at sales@gazettegroup.com

RECYCLING

BOUNCY CASTLES

NOTICE DUBLIN METROPOLITAN DISTRICT AN CHUIRT DUICHE AUCTIONEERS AND HOUSE AGENTS ACTS, 1947-1973. PART 111 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF QUALIFICATION APPLICANT: Conall Forbes trading as Forbes Hamilton TAKE NOTICE that Conall Forbes, trading as Forbes Hamilton, of The Tram Yard, Castle Street, Dalkey, County Dublin. Pursuant to the provisions of the Auctioneers and House Agents Acts 1947 to 1973 intend to apply to the Judge of the Dublin Metropolitan District Court sitting at Court No. 23, Old Public Records Building, Four Courts, Dublin 7 on Thursday the 23rd day of June 2011 at 10.30 a.m. for (the renewal of) a Certificate of Qualification to hold and Auctioneers/House Agents Licence to carry on business under the name of Forbes Hamilton…and having the principal place of business at The Tram Yard, Castle Street Dalkey, County Dublin in the City of Dublin in the aforesaid District. Dated this day of May 2011Conall Forbes ; Applicant Signed: Messrs. Hugh J. Campbell & Co., Solicitor for the Applicant, Shannon House, Custom Place, Athlone, County Westmeath. To:The District Court Clerk Dublin Metropolitan District Licensing Office, 1st Floor, Áras Uí Dhálaigh, Inns Quay, Dublin 7 To: The Superintendent of An Garda Síochána, Garda Station, Dalkey, County Dublin.

DENTAL

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DVD TRANSFERS Cinefilms,Photos and Slides transferred to DVD with Music and Titles added.

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Highly trained security dogs for sale. References available, watch our dogs in action and read our many references at www.TopdogTraining.com or phone 087 0514467.

ELECTRICIANS ELECTRICIAN Available for Domestic Work Including New Fuseboards, Showers, Sockets and Light Switches, Downlighters etc..

Security and Garden Lighting, Extra TV points Energy saving lighting upgrades Domestic CCTV. Call Steven on 0874170481

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CLASSES/LEARNING SEWING CLASSES/ CURTAIN MAKING Curtain and Roman Blind making service at competitive prices. We reline and re-pleat all curtains, full selection of poles and rails available.

Beginners and Improvers 6 week Sewing Classes on Dress Making and Home Furnishings resuming in September. Half Day workshops also resuming in September. Contact us at www.sewgreat.ie or www.pressxpress.ie, call 01 8227650 or email info@ sewgreat.ie GRINDS AVAILABLE Irish & Chemistry Experienced Teacher 087 9425497 GUITAR LESSONS IN DUN LAOGHAIRE: Experienced, qualified teacher. Based on York Road. Beginner to Advanced. Styles include

rock, pop and jazz. www.danieljacobson.ie Contact Daniel: 087 1715771

CLEANING SPARKLES - Nothing but the best - 100% Irish registered company with experienced and friendly staff. Sparkles Cleaning is now in its 4th year of operation and is dedicated to providing a professional service to clients at competitive rates covering all of the South Dublin area.

We specialise in: Weekly, Fortnightly or Monthly cleaning. House and Apartment once off clean ups - whether you are moving in or out. Our schedule is suited around the clients needs. References available on requestContact Caroline on:01 297 4051 or 087 4139335 E:sparklescleaning4U@ gmail.com

POLISH PROFESSIONAL PAINTING AND DECORATING Best quality.

Free Quotations. No job too small. Very reasonable prices. References available on WWW.MARKCOMPANY. IE find us on FACEBOOK Please phone Mark on 0879442445 TOP CLASS PROFESSIONAL PAINTING 20 Years Experience. All Aspects Of Interior And Exterior Painting. Damaged Ceilings Repaired. Fully Insured.

CONTACT COLM PH: 01-4570829 or 087-9700259

PLUMBING JT PLUMBING BEST PRICES IN DUBLIN!!

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Water Tanks, Drippings Taps, Radiators, Burst pipes, Cylinders, Pumps, Outside Taps, Showers, Immersions, Bathroom Suites. For your free estimate call now on 085 7555412 mjrules44@ gmail.com

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MEDICAL SERVICES MEDICAL SERVICES: Counselling for Professionals Solving the problems of extreme stress.

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TILING KC TILING & DECORATING Professional Tiler of 20 years experience. Reliable and Trustworthy Specialising in all aspects of tiling, incluing, Ceramics, Porcelains, Marble, Wall tiles and Floor tiles. Finished to the Highest standard. Also available for Painting and Decorating, Interior and Exterior.

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PLANNING NOTICE

PLANNING NOTICE

PLANNING NOTICE

DUN LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

DUN LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

DUN LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

Retention permission is sought for amendments to the previously approved planning application for the construction of a two storey detached dwelling and all ancillary works at site adjoining No. 43 College Park Way, Ballinteer, Dublin 16 now known as No. 45 College Park Way Reg. Ref. D02A/0989

by Owen and Susan O’leary.

The amendments comprise of the addition of 9 sq.m. of floor area to the front of the first floor and resulting front elevation modifications along with the addition of a front canopy over the entrance door.

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

Permission is sought for a two story extension to the side and refurbishment of an existing house at No.76 Roebuck Castle, Roebuck Road, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14 by Gabrielle Mahon.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of the Planning Authority during public opening hours 10am to 4pm Monday-Friday excluding public holidays.

The offices are at: The Planning Authority, County Hall, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire. The submission / observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of a fee of €20. Submission must be made within 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the Planning Authority.

I, Tom Day am applying for planning permission for development consisting of the conversion of existing attic into non habitable attic space including the installation of new roof lights to front (east) and rear (west) facing roof slope of existing two storey semi detached dwelling including change of shape of roof from hipped to gable end as previously approved under Reg. Ref. D05A/1608.

This proposal will also include the provision of a new porch roof over door and window to front elevation of existing dwelling at No. 7, Meadow Villas, Dundrum, Dublin 14.

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

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26 May 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

MAY WE SUGGEST? This month’s Sports Awards nominees are announced: Page 29

ATHLETICS: LOCAL COMPETITORS TAKE TITLES AT THE LEINSTER SCHOOLS’ EVENT

Buttner claims track and field double at Morton sport@gazettegroup.com

COLAISTE Iosagain’s Siofra Cleirigh-Buttner produced yet another starring performance at last Saturday’s AVIVA Leinster Schools’ Track and Field Championships in Morton Stadium when she bagged both the 800m and 1,500m titles.

The intermediate runner has been one of the stand-out performers at underage level over the past few years and the

Irish international added this double to a series of cross-country titles won in the winter season.

The longer distance was slightly closer than the first, coming home with 11 seconds to spare on Pres Kilkenny’s Megan Morrissey in a time of 5.02.48 with Mount Sackville’s Aoibhin Dowdall taking bronze.

In the 800m, she kept the challenge of Dublin underage ladies’ footballer Sarah Hawkshaw

– a Mount Sackville representative on the day – with a time of 2.08.27.

It means the CleirighButtner will compete for All-Ireland glory in early June in Tullamore.

Elsewhere, the second day of competition was an impressive one for the Rathdown school in Glenageary who claimed three gold medals, excelling in the pole-vault.

Leinster school’s hockey representative, Orla Macken, won the senior

Siofra Clerigh-Buttner, who claimed both the 800 and 1,500m titles in the schools’ track event

title while Eve Blake led a one-two at intermediate level.

Ailbhe Kelleher – in the intermediate triple jump – made it a hat-trick with a best final distance of 10.19 metres.

Her clearance of 2.30m saw her home by one level from schoolmate Rachel Swan who recorded a jump of 2.20m. Malahide CS’ schoolgirl Lizzie McDowell was third.

Blackrock College’s

Oliver Jager continued his glittering school’s sporting year as he added a couple of medals to the JCT title he helped annex for his school in March over St Michael’s.

The back row showed

his strength once more in the throwing disciplines.

His shot distance of 14.09 metres was well clear of Rathangan’s James Mulligan, while Jager added bronze with a 35.32m length in the discus.

28 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteSport Sport Feature

O’Hanlon in red heaven as Liverpool FC swoop Kenny Dalglish made his first signing as permanent coach at Anfield last week, and it was Blanchardstown native, Alex O’Hanlon. ROB HEIGH looks at the meteoric rise of the sought-after young player Amid the hoopla of State visits, rugby miracles and Jedward, a story that might have slipped your attention was Kenny Dlaglish’s first signing as permanent manager at Liverpool FC.

The subject of the signing is Alex O’Hanlon, a 15-yearold star from St Kevin’s Boys, whose list of former players includes Liam Brady, Damien Duff, Stephen Carr and Ian Harte.

Alex has been drawing attention from a number of sides in recent years, but that attention has become more intense in recent years as he has developed as a player. Alex has grown in stature,

playing as a part of the Manchester City. But He played for St Kevin’s DDSL which won the he got a good feeling at where he has been playKennedy Cup last year, Liverpool, and they said ing since he was 12, and recently captained that no matter what it playing for their Underthe Republic’s Under-15 took, they wanted to 13s. He played for the side against Belgium. have him as a part of DDSL side who won Speaking exclusively the Anfield set-up. the Kennedy Cup,” said to GazetteSport last “ K e n n y D a l g l i s h Dominic. week, Alex’s father, called me yesterday, and “St Kevin’s have won Dominic, was under- said in passing that we the league for the fourth standably thrilled about have created a little bit year running, U-11, 12, the most recent devel-------------------------------------------------------opment in Alex’s soccer career.

“The last 12 months has been frantic, with some 23 clubs looking to get his signature. The list was then whittled down to the top seven.

He spent a week at Real -------------------------------------------------------Madrid, and was the first boy from Ireland or of history, as Alex is the 13 and 14 in the DDSL England to go on trial at first player that I have Premier division, which Real, which is amazing. signed since becoming is a great achievement.

“He spent time at the permanent manager “He has also played Chelsea, he was there at Liverpool, which he for Ireland, and he capthree times, and played will have for the rest of tained the Irish Undertime for their youth his career.”

15 s i d e w h o p l ay e d team. He also had Liam Alex has been on against Belgium a few Brady take him under a meteoric rise since weeks ago.” his wing [as head of the start of his soccer Brendan BermingYouth Development at career. ham, secretar y of St Arsenal], and there was “He started out play- Kevin’s Boys, said: “Alex an offer on the table ing for Home Farm’s is very highly thought f r o m A r s e n a l , f r o m Under-7s and Under-9s. of. He’s an excellent Manchester United, From there, he started full-back and hopefully Everton, Aston Villa, playing for Shelbourne. he might turn out like

‘The Liverpool set-up is very structured. He has signed for the right club at the right time, and he will get a chance to make his mark there’

Alex O’Hanlon captained the Ireland Under-15s against Belgium recently

Gareth Bale.

“He’s got a really good attitude, quiet and unassuming. He’s just football, football, football.”

Dominic continues: “Alex is a very downto-earth kid, and this attention won’t turn his head at all.

“He will move over to Liverpool in July, and, before that, he will travel with the club to the Amsterdam Cup, where Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United’s Under-17 sides will be playing.

“He as 15 three weeks ago, but he will go straight to the Under18s at Liverpool. He will be travelling with the reserves next season.

“There are a lot of high hopes for him. The Liverpool set-up is very structured, and it was always about where he was going to thrive and develop as a player. He has signed for the right club at the right time, and he will get a chance there.”

26 May 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 29

in association with

ASDFASDF: SASDF ASDFASD FDSAF SDA

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - MAY NOMINEES

FastSport

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

+ STARof the

Locals lift Leinster to Heineken Cup glory

MONTH

LOCAL stars, captain Leo Cullen, Luke Fitzgerald, Brian O’Driscoll, Shane Jennings Xxx yyll xxyyl zxyxzz zz x xxylyx. Xxx yyll xxyyl zxyxzz Devon Toner were among the Leinster zzand x xxylyx.

Picture: Xxxxx Zzzzzz

RYAN O’DWYER

SIOFRA BUTTNER

NUALA MURPHY

KILMACUD Crokes’ star Ryan O’Dwyer produced a truly outstanding performance to help Dublin annex their first National Hurling League division one title since the 1930s. He was named manof-the-match in the Dubs’ comprehensive 0-22 to 1-7 success over Kilkenny.

THE COLAISTE Iosagain student continues to set the pace in Leinster schools’ middle-distance running, adding the 800m and 1,500m titles at the recent Track and Field championships to her collection. She goes in search of national glory in early June.

RECENTLY returned from a year out injured, Trojan swimmer Murphy shone at the National Long-Course swimming championships at the NAC. She romped to the 1,500m freestyle gold as well as medalling in the 400m event in the face of top class opposition.

+ TEAMof the MONTH

SWORDS CELTIC

BLANCH FC

LUCAN CAMOGIE

SWORDS Celtic enjoyed a memorable month, claiming nine league and cup titles across the various NDSL and DDSL competitions in a bumper three-week period.

The titles ranged from U-8 up to U-17 level, with several Premier gongs.

FC BLANCH secured their second league title in a row, adding to a famous year for the club in their first year in the AUL, the newcomers celebrating their 10th anniversary in style, reaching the last 32 of the FAI Junior Cup.

LUCAN’S dominance in Community Games camogie continued to an unprecedented fifth year as the village produced yet another emphatic display. In their semi-final and finals, they notched and astonishing 11-7 to no-score.

WELCOME to the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, as we mark our local sportsmen and women’s May spor ting achievements across the capital and, indeed, across the nation.

With spring’s awakenings making way for summer sun, we’re delighted to once again

be able to celebrate the finest achievements in Dublin sport, with some huge efforts at local levels coming to our attention in a variety of wellknown, and some less prominent sports.

Ever y form of sporting achievement, at any level and in any sport, is valuable and

gives an impression of the diversity of sporting commitment there is around our fair city at all times of the year.

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

Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes in the month of May, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/gazettesport.

You can also check out the latest stories from GazetteSport at our new website, www.gazettegroup.com

stars who claimed the Heineken Cup in Cardiff last weekend, coming from behind with a mammoth second-half performance to outstrip Northampton.

The side were given a hero’s welcome on their return to Dublin on Sunday at the RDS and were presented to the faithful supporters unable to make the trip to Cardiff.

asdf asdf sa dfdsasd fdas fdasf Special coursedasdfd for budding Triathletes

IF YOU’RE female, over 18, and would love to do your first triathlon, the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Sports Partnership and Triathlon Ireland are hosting a beginners’ workshop to provide you with all you need to know to take part in your first event, on the weekend of June 11 at Meadowbrook Leisure Centre in Ballinteer.

Triathlons have grown from 30 events in 2007, involving 600 members, to 131 events and over 5,500 members in less than five years according to Triathlon Ireland.

Both newbies and members contributed to a target of 20,000 participants in 2010.

Events take place across the country from early spring to late summer and, last year, Athlone hosted

the first Irish ITU championship which drew an international crowd. There are high hopes for our own fine athletes to be among the top competitors in London 2012.

Patricia Murphy, a local sports and health and fitness consultant to the houses of the Oireachtas, is calling on people interested in taking part in a triathlon to come along to this special event, at which she will give guidance on equipment, training and nutrition advice, biking, running and swimming techniques, and race preparation.

You’re then ready to take part in your first local race and put your new skills into action - the Focus Ireland Triathlon - on July 31 in Dun Laoghaire Harbour.

To register for this one day workshop or for more information, contact DLRSP at 01 271 9502 or sportspartnership@ dlrcoco.ie

300 wds

30 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

LYNCH CUP FINAL: DERBY TIE SEES LAKELANDS HOLD NERVE

Locals claim honours at Irish Hockey awards FORMER Loreto, Dalkey, pupils, Kate Dillon and Emma Smyth, picked up two of the main gongs at the ESB Electric Ireland Irish Hockey Association Awards held in the Burlington Hotel last Saturday night.

Dillon claimed the women’s club Player of the Year title after a stellar year, guiding her club, Railway Union, to the European C division indoor club title, as well as bronze in the B division of the outdoor equivalent.

Smyth was nominated by her peers in the Irish international team as the Player’s Player of the Year.

Monkstown, meanwhile, were honoured as the Youth Club of the Year.

Cabinteely set tocomwww.cabinteelyfc. or telephone 01 235 4343. to play host to Legends XI Local pair A CABINTEELY FC scuppered in selection will take on a team of Republic Howth races of Ireland legends from the 1990 and 1994 World Cup in Kilbogget Park on Saturday, June 25.

Amongst the big names expected to turn out are John Aldridge, Paul McGrath, Ronnie Whelan, Jason McAteer and Phil Babb.

Kick off is at 3pm with pre-match entertainment getting underway at 1pm.

Tickets are €10 while family tickets (two adults, two children) are €25 and are available from the Cabinteely clubhouse while, for more information, go

ROYAL St George YC’s Conor Totterdell and Stephen Craig’s hopes of claiming the RS Feva Leinster Championship in Howth were blown away when just two races were completed with strong winds preventing the completion of the six race series.

With gusts of over 45 knots, the race officer took the decision to cancel the remaining races.

It is the intention of the organising committee to reschedule the event later this summer.

Lakelands were able to hold their nerve after extra time and penalties to claim the Lynch Cup title

Farm foiled in shoot-out LYNCH CUP FINAL

Lakelands 1 Farm United 1 Lakelands won on penalties STEVE GILLMAN sport@gazettegroup.com

LAKELANDS lif ted the Lynch Cup after a tense penalty shoot-out against Farm United.

The match ended 1-1 and looked destined for penalties for a long time after both goals came within the first ten minutes of the match.

The cup final had been built up to be a great game, with neither team standing out as favourites prior to kickoff.

Lakelands and Farm

were well aware of the threat that either side possessed, since both teams had beaten each other in the Leinster Senior League Sunday Division 3.

However, it was Lakelands who took a quick lead with the first goal of the game coming within the second minute.

A wide ball was played to the Lakelands’ striker who took it down the wing where he crossed the ball into the box and over the Farm defence, where Shaun Murphy was able to tap it in from close range.

B u t F a r m Un i t e d r e s p o n d e d q u i c k l y, and five minutes later,

they were level. Some smart, one-two passing along their left flank allowed their full-back to find space to cross a ball into the Lakelands box, where it was easily headed in by Farm.

The rest of the first half was dominated by Farm but they were unable to break down the Lakelands’ defence and they could not create any clear-cut chances.

Lakelands looked nervous throughout but they were able to hold on until half-time.

After Lakelands’ poor performance in the first 45 minutes they pushed on and took hold of the second half. The best

chance to win the game came when a Lakelands’ forward was through on goal for a one on one but was not able to get his shot on target.

Lakelands got a penalty for a handball in the Farm box but the referee consulted his linesman and concluded that it was the Lakelands forward that had handballed and a free out was awarded.

Lakelands continue to push but could not find the net. The referee blew his whistle for the end of normal time and the beginning of extra time.

Tired legs began to show in the first half

of extra time but an electric second half followed where both teams had a go at each other in a last-ditch attempt to clinch the cup.

Yet neither team could find a goal and it ended in penalties.

The decisive moment came when Farm missed their third penalty after a poor shot was saved by the Lakelands’ keeper.

It was the same keeper who then stood up and won the match for Lakelands after he powered a shot past his counterpart.

A Lakelands’ pitch invasion followed quickly as the team celebrated their first-ever trophy.

Mount Merrion appoint new academy chief STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

MOUNT Merrion Youths’ FC have announced the appointment of Kevin Brady to the position of Coaching Academy Director.

Brady joins Mount Merrion with 10 years’ experience of schoolboy football. He also brings with him a wealth of experience built up during his long career in the League of Ireland.

Speaking on behalf of Mount Merrion Youths FC, chairman Barry Saul said: “I am delighted

with the appointment of Kevin as Coaching Academy Director.

Kevin’s experience in the schoolboy game, coupled with his playing experience, makes him a great asset to the club.”

He added: “The role of Coaching Academy Director will involve the re organisation of our Academy and small sided games in order to improve playing and coaching standards within the club” In a distinguished career, Brady won a quartet of League of Ireland titles and a trio of FAI Senior Cups during the Milltown

days of Shamrock Rovers along with a league and cup title a piece with Shelbourne and Derry City, all between the 1980s and 90s.

Indeed, his career even saw him play in Champion’s League qualifiers with Derry in 1997.

Speaking about his new appointment, he said: “I am delighted to take up the position of Coaching Academy Director at Mount Merrion. It’s a progressive club, keen to improve standards and compete at the highest level, but also mindful of our social role in the community to provide a safe environment where children

can enjoy a positive soccer experience.”

His first challenge will be to help with the preparation for this year’s Mini World Cup in Deerpark in June.

New director, Kevin Brady

26 May 2011 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 31

in association with

LADIES FOOTBALL: FOXES REACH FIRST SEMI-FINAL

a

CLUB NOTICEBOARD BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S CONGRATULATIONS to the U-16 foot-

with his achilles tendon operation this

ball team (Noel Madden, Paddy Brady,

week.

Mark Fee) on bringing the championship to the club for the first time since 2004.

Minor B hurlers beat St David’s,

Summer Camp 2011 application form on www.bodengaa.ie.

Many thanks to all those who have paid their membership for 2011.

2-11 to 1-10, to move into contention in

For those who haven’t yet paid,

Hurling League Division 2. Speedy get

please note the option to pay over

well to Chris Lambert.

four months through our online facil-

The senior footballers had a welldeserved draw away to league leaders, St Sylvester’s, with a very depleted side.

Best of luck to Kenny Naughton

ity will end on May 31. See website for more details.

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 5, 12, 10 and 23. Jackpot of €4,000 was not won.

BALLINTEER ST JOHN’S LOTTO: Numbers drawn were 9, 18, 20 and 23. There was no winner.

The demolition of Clan Na Gael Fontenoy was enough to put Foxrock Cabinteely into semi-final

Fox/Cab attain new level in ladies’ game LADIES SENIOR FOOTBALL Foxrock Cabinteely 6-18 Clan Na Gael Fontenoy 0-7 STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

FOXROCK Cabinteely reached another milestone in their emergence on the Dublin ladies’ football scene as they reached their first ever senior championship semi-final this week.

They did so in emphatic fashion, storming past the challenge of Clan na Gael Fontenoy at Kilbogget Park last week with 29 points to spare.

Combined with an earlier 3-7 to 0-10 win over Naomh Mearnog a week earlier, the Foxes 6-18 to 0-7 victory guaranteed them top spot in Group 1 with a semi-final opponent to be confirmed later this week.

It was an incredible performance, hailed by club chairman Pat Ring as one of the best he has witnessed in the club’s history, certainly at senior level.

“Rather than men-

tion individual players, I’d rather say that it was probably one of the most complete performances from the team in a number of years. All positions, everyone, made a huge contribution for the team.

“Our most outstanding player for a number of weeks has been Amy Connolly and she was probably our best player again. She’s one of our Dublin senior players, and Leinster young player in 2006, and has been our key player over the last month in getting us to this semi-final. But overall, though, it was a massive team performance.”

It was a measure of how far the club has come. They beat Clannagael in the 2008 intermediate final, earning the right to step up to senior level.

The Ringsend club followed them up at the end of last summer but Fox/Cab have gone from strength to strength and there is a belief they can

step on further this year with the elements working in their favour.

“We’re quite lucky this year in that the majority of our players are not travelling this summer.

It’s a massive difference from previous years.

“Most of them are in college, with the average age between 18 and 23 so, you can imagine, when they get their holidays, they head off. This year, we’re quite lucky that most of our key players are available. [Dublin senior] Ciara Murphy unfortunately did play her last match but there are one or two who are

studying abroad who are coming back. Ciara will be a big loss, though.”

As for semi-final opponents, there is plenty of pedigree in Group 2 with any one of three clubs in the offing.

“It could be anyone from Boden, Brigid’s or Na Fianna. To be honest, anyone of them, or all three, are going to be very difficult for us. They’re very established clubs and have been in senior football for a number of years. We have the height of respect for them and they’re doing great jobs for ladies’ football in Dublin.”

Draw winners were Sean McMahon €100, Gerry O’Donnell €50 and Tom Piggot €50.

Nex t week’s dr aw will be for €15,000.

Tickets are available online at www.ballinteerstjohns.com.

social evening. Win €1,000.

Sing-along in the bar every Tuesday night with Na Firbolg’s from 10 pm.

Under-16 ladies’ team had a terrific win over St Brigid’s at the weekend. Under-12 girls had a fine win over Clontarf.

The Lane family wish to acknowl-

Bingo every Monday night from

edge the tr emendous suppor t

8.30pm. Please let your neighbours,

they received from club members

friends, relatives know and encour-

and friends during their recent

age them to join in an enjoyable

bereavement.

NAOMH OLAF THE charity boxing night was a fan-

Marto Farrelly whose brainchild it

tastic success with a large crowd in

was. Thank you, one and all.

attendance. It must surely rank as

The annual golf classic takes place

one of the greatest nights ever in the

in Edmonstown Golf Club next Friday,

club. Well done to the main organiser

May 27. This is an important fund-

and tuxedoed MC on the night, Antho-

raiser and support is essential in the

ny Delaney, who is a natural and has

current economic climate. The format

a calling if ever he decides to give up

is Singles Stapleford competition and

the day job.

cost of entry is €100, which includes

As we all know behind every great

a steak dinner. Sponsorship of a hole

man there is a great woman and, as

costs €75. For more information, con-

usual, Mags played a blinder behind

tact Tom Culligan 086 852 3529, Mick

the scenes.

Brown 087 258 7243, Fran O’Dwyer 087

The event could never have hap-

275 0665 or John Mullhall 087 257 1691.

pened without the “Likely Lads”, our

Former Tipperary hurler, Eamon

brave boxers who put their bod-

Corcoran, has kindly agreed to run a

ies (and reputations) on the line for

training session with the U-13/14 boys

the club. Special mention must go to

on May 30 at 7pm.

WANDERERS CONGRATULATIONS to the mens’ junior

10-point win over St Olaf’s in the league

Bs who had a good win against neigh-

last Thursday night at Frank Kelly

bours St Enda’s on Sunday last. Final

Park, with Liam Lyng, David Costigan

score: 3-12 to 1-3. A great defensive

and Karl Ennis all starring in the for-

display, coupled with good perfo-

wards, while Darren Delaney and Gary

mances from Declan Brophy and Bill

O’Sullivan controlled midfield. Karl

Desmond secured the points.

Boland made three excellent saves in

Mens junior As had an execellent

goal also to ensure the points.

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

FLEET FOXES: Foxrock Cabinteely

break new ground in senior football: P31

MAY 26, 2011

SUPER STARS: May award nominees revealed inside P29

Gers to toast 125 years of history Resurgent local club set to celebrate rich tapestry in Cornelscourt in presence of GAA President Cooney STEPHEN FINDLATER dunlaoghairesport@gazettegroup.com

GAA President Christy Cooney and the Artane Band will lead the 125th anniversary celebrations of one of Dublin’s oldest GAA clubs, Foxrock Geraldines Patrick Morans, on Saturday afternoon.

Cooney will unveil a plaque commemorating the club’s founder Patrick Cunniam – who was present in the Hayes Hotel in Tipperary in 1884 at the formation of the GAA – at the club’s grounds in Cornelscourt.

As part of the celebrations, the Artane Band will lead a parade of all the club’s players through Foxrock and Cabinteely, prior to a football ‘blitz’ involving primary school children from the area.

The anniversary comes at a resurgent point in the club’s history with the development of a vibrant underage structure.

The fruits of those labours were reaped just last month when the Geraldines’ U-14 footballers won

the club’s first ever Dublin Feile na nGael title with the victorious players drawn from Clonkeen College, Blackrock College, Willow Park, CBC Monkstown, Gonzaga, Oatlands, St Brigid’s and Holly Park.

And club PRO Shay Keane says that it is part of major growth in the club.

“We’ve had an adult game focus all of the time but, in the last few years, there has been a real push to get a juvenile section developed.

“Year on year, we’ve grown by a team, or possibly two teams, over the past five years and it’s likely that, in the next couple of years, we’ll have at least 300 playing children.”

The club now fields players at all levels, from U-8 up to adult level, raising the numbers of active club members to its highest since the 1950s.

The growth of this section has come about through links forged with local schools, most notably with St Brigid’s BNS, with whom principal Pat O’Connell has been a driving force, with Dublin dual-star John Sheanon providing a high-

GazetteSPORT

Geraldine Moran’s youth section has been one of the cornerstones in the resurgent recent history of the Cornelscourt club

quality coaching link.

Keane, himself, is part of the colour of the club’s history, holding the probably unique record of having played hurling, Gaelic football, Australian rules and compromise rules football in Croke Park as well as playing the tenor saxophone on HQ’s turf.

Among other famous connections, three grandchildren of GAA President from 1928-32 Sean Ryan, still reside in the area with one granddaughter playing an instrumental role in the Cabinteely village clean up for the Tidy Towns competition.

With Michael Lyster taking on the MC duties, the club are hopeful the event can show and enhance links within their community as they seek to build their membership further to fulfill an ambitious new five-year plan.

The club, the oldest community feature in the area, is looking forward to the weekend as a celebration of their past but as a very lively starting point for a prosperous future.