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proclamation and tricolour presented to monkstown park school

As part of the 1916 centenary celebrations, the students and staff of Monkstown Park Junior School dressed in period costume and played out a re-enactment of the 1916 rising, on the day the Irish army visited the school to present a copy of the proclamation and the tricolour. The flag was proudly raised on Proclamation Day and the students read out the 1916 proclamation and their own proclamation for a new generation. School involvement in the 1916 celebrations has been a wonderful success and thoroughly enjoyable.

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March 17-23, 2016

Councillors nominated to replace new TDs Three new councillors have filled vacancies brought about by newly elected TDs

 emma nolan

NOMINATIONS have taken place for new councillors to replace the newly elected TDs in the Dun Laoghaire and Dublin Rathdown constituencies and were confirmed

at a council meeting on Monday March 14. Three vacancies were to be filled following the election to the Dail of Josepha Madigan and Maria Bailey of Fine Gael, and Catherine Martin of the Green Party.

Cllr Neale Richmond (FG) told The Gazette that Deputy Madigan’s “hotly contested” seat will be taken by John Kennedy. Maria Bailey’s seat will be taken by Jim Gildea who defeated Garrett McDermott last Thursday

March 10 in the Royal Marine hotel. The Green Party replacement for Deputy Martin is Karen Furlong who was nominated at an internal Green Party vote last Thursday 10. Full Story on Page 2

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nominations | new councillors confirmed

Councillors elected to replace new TDs  emma nolan news@dublingazette.com

Neale Richmond welcomed.

BOWL

Y SOFTPLA LAZER TAG

Nominations for new councillors to replace the newly elected TDs in the Dun Laoghaire and Dublin Rathdown constituencies were confirmed at a council meeting on Monday March 14. Three vacancies were to be filled following the election to the Dail of Josepha Madigan and Maria Bailey of Fine Gael, and Catherine Martin of the Green Party. Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council confirmed that replacement councillors are nominated by the relevant party in accordance with Section 19(3) of the Local Government Act 2001 and then confirmed at a council meeting. The replacements for Josepha Madigan were agreed among councillors at a convention selection in the Goat pub last Tuesday March 8. Cllr Neale Richmond (FG) told The Gazette that Deputy Madigan’s “hotly contested” seat will be taken by John Kennedy. The other candidates were Aileen Eglington, David McManus, Deirdre Potts and Tony Walsh. Maria Bailey’s seat will be taken by Jim Gildea who defeated Garrett McDermott last Thursday March 10 in the Royal Marine hotel. Richmond said: “I am delighted to welcome my two new Fine Gael colleagues onto the Council. Jim [Gildea] was unlucky to miss out at the Local

Elections but he will be a great asset to the Council. “John [Kennedy] is a great stalwart of Fine Gael in the Stillorgan area and a long-time friend of mine from our days in UCD Young Fine Gael, he too will be completely dedicated to the work of the Council.” Councillor Victor Boyhan (Ind) congratulated Jim Gildea and John Kennedy who were both co-opted by Fine Gael to the Council. He said: “l wish Jim and John my best wishes as they take their seats in the council chamber to represent the communities of Killiney – Shankill and Stillorgan respectively.” The Green Party replacement for Deputy Martin is Karen Furlong who was nominated at an internal Green Party vote last Thursday 10. Furlong has worked in senior management and consulting roles, specialising in transformational change and strategy implementation across many sectors, including public, private and the not for profit sectors. Speaking following her selection, Cllr Furlong said: “I’m honoured to be selected from such outstanding candidates to represent the Dundrum Ward on the County Council. I have lived in Dundrum all my life and have deep roots in this community. I believe I can bring both energy and commitment to this very important role.”

FastNews

It’s smiles all around for Your Smile Direct winners Your Smile Direct, a client company of IADT Media Cube in Dun Laoghaire, fended off strong competition to win the €10,000 cash prize at the recent Docklands Innovation Enterprise Awards. Organised by the Bolton Trust and sponsored by PwC, the competition saw 20 participants and alumni of the IADT/DIT New Frontiers Programme compete for the title of ‘Best Investment Proposal’. Three companies - KillBiller, Beutifi and Your Smile Direct - made it through to the finals to pitch their proposition to a panel of industry experts and an audience of entrepreneurs and investors. Your Smile Direct have developed a disruptive online service which allows consumers to source bespoke dental aligners and retainers up to 70% more cheaply than through high street dentists. The IADT/DIT New Frontiers Programme is funded by Enterprise Ireland and offers early stage start-ups a package of supports including training, mentoring, workspace and funding. Pictured are Graham Byrne of Your Smile Direct (centre) with Feargal O’Rourke, Managing Partner of PwC, and Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD.

Two prestigious awards for Lexicon The dlr Lexicon has received two prestigious international awards at the 2016 Civic Trust Awards in London. The library received the Selwyn Goldsmith Award for International Design and the National Panel Special Award on March 4. The two awards were presented to the dlr LexIcon, designed by architects Carr, Cotter and Naessens Ltd, because it has demonstrated outstanding credentials in the area of universal design. An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Barry Saul (FG) said: “The dlr LexIcon is the most significant piece of public infrastructure in Dun Laoghaire for over 100 years. It is the single biggest investment by the Council in a civic amenity. I am delighted that it has received these prestigious awards in recognition of its design.”

Planning permissions granted Permission has been granted for a lingerie shop in Dun Laoghaire to be converted into a residential home. Honey Trap, the “not your average knicker shop” which specialised in corsets, closed its premises in late 2014. Located at 16 Cross Avenue, the new owners have been granted permission to change the use from

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a commercial to residential dwelling and carry out alterations to the shop front. Meanwhile, property developers have applied for permission to demolish the building at Harold Crescent in Glasthule to build three terraced two bedroom houses and an application to convert two commercial units on Quinn’s Road Shankill has been withdrawn.

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Festival | book festival has gone from strength to strength

book theatre

Magic Monkey business

Success once again for Mountains to Sea  emma nolan

This year’s eighth annual Mountains to Sea DLR Book Festival had another successful run and has established a reputation as one of the most popular and enjoyable literary festivals in the country in the last few years. The Gazette spoke to Primary Curator of Mountains to Sea, Bert Wright. He said: “Mountains to Sea differs from most festivals insofar as it’s really a composite of three strands: the primary strand; the poetry strand (formerly the Poetry NOW festival); and the schools and families strand, all of which appeal to their own constituencies. “And, with the addition of the magnificent new

DLR Lexicon Library, the festival now boasts perhaps the finest festival events campus in the country.” Bert said that the festival got off to a great start with a preview event on February 5 when American literary giant John Irving discussed his latest novel with John Boyne before a full house in the Pavilion Theatre. Other huge names lined up included Sir Michael Parkinson, Neil Jordan, Sophie Hannah, Pauline Bewick, Liam O’Maonlai, Paul Muldoon, Cecelia Ahern, Cathy Cassidy and Louise O’Neil. President Higgins’s wife Sabina Higgins, Miriam O’Callaghan, Olivia O’Leary and singer Lisa Lambe all took part

in an RTE Book Show entitled Women & Words on Friday March 11 and on Sunday 13 The Great Big Family Book Show included guests Ryan Tubridy, Diana Bunici, children’s laureate Eoin Colfer and David Rawle (Moone Boy). Wright said that “the festival has gone from strength to strength in recent years and we’re very lucky to have such great event venues, a 4-star hotel, great restaurants all concentrated within a square mile. “Add to that Dun Laoghaire Rathdown’s literary heritage and the splendour of the scenery and local facilities and you have something very special to offer natives, visitors and authors.”

local business owners attend conference

Pictured at the Local Enterprise Week Conference ‘A Future in the Business World’ held at the Royal Marine Hotel on March 8, where local business owners and entrepreneurs gathered for presentations and discussions, were, left to right, Eibhlinn Curley, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, ex-Dragons Den star and Insomnia Coffee owner Bobby Kerr and Dearbhla Lawson, Director of Economic, Community and Cultural Development, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council. Picture: © Photo by Peter Cavanagh

Monkeyshine Theatre’s Magic Bookshop for audiences aged 5 and over is taking to the Pavilion Theatre Dun Laoghaire this Sunday March 20. The Magic Bookshop interactive per formance is a “treasure trove of wonders where old books flock together and their stories hop from the pages”. Kareen Pennefather of Monkeyshine says: “We love books and we love bookshops. Books give us doors to other worlds and the magic that can be found there has inspired much of our work. “We wanted to create our own bookshop, an intimate space where stories could come to life.” Tickets cost €6.50/ €8.50 and are available at paviliontheatre.ie

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design | great opportunityfor artists to work, sell regularly and meet customers

Irish Design Gallery opens in Lexicon Library  Emma Nolan

The Irish Design Gallery has opened in the Dun Laoghaire Lexicon Library. Following on from the success of the gallery in Powerscourt House, Enniskerry (formerly The Design Loft) Pro-

prietor Sinéad Buckley Quinn opened a second gallery bringing a selection of work from over 40 local designers, crafters, artists and photographers under one gorgeous roof in Moran Park House. The Irish Design Gallery opened in July 2013 and is an

award winning retail gallery that gives many talented artists and photographers the opportunity to showcase their work. The public will have a chance to see the designers at work during the summer months as there will be Designer Displays in the Dun Laoghaire gallery

where the designers themselves may be working on their jewellery, knitting a garment, or painting a masterpiece . Sinead Buckley Quinn said: “From a consumer perspective there will always be something new and exciting at The Irish Design Gallery, and for the

local designers and makers, there is the opportunity to reach a new market. “Being able to showcase and sell regularly in two such great venues, and to meet customers while still having time to concentrate on design work and creativity, is a win-win situa-

tion for all involved.” The 45 designers include Orla Walsh, Jennifer Rothwell, Liz Quin, Adam King, Jim Scully, David Walsh, Colm de Ris, Tracy Gilbert, Fab Cow, Shuttleknit, Rodanthe and many more. The gallery is open seven days a week.

Memorials committee to honour Irish patriot Sir Roger Casement Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council memorials committee are to honour Irish patriot Sir Roger Casement by erecting a statue and naming the linear marine parkland and walkway connecting the parkland areas at Newtownsmith with the beach area at Queen’s Road and onward to the East Pier in his honour. Councillors voted to honour Casement at the council meeting last Monday March 14 in commemoration of his role as a human rights activist and champion of the rights of indigenous people. Casement, who was born at Sandy-

cove on September 1 1864 and was executed for treason in London on August 3rd 1916. Angus Mitchell, historian and author of 16 Lives: Roger Casement and other works gave a presentation at the council on the history and significance of Roger Casement. Speaking in support of the proposal Councillor Victor Boyhan said; “Like so many Ulster Protestants the Casement family came, settled and contributed to the life of Kingstown now Dun Laoghaire. It is befitting that the town should honour this great Irishman.”

Pupils of Coliaste Iosagain & Woodbrook College during the Plantathon.

volunteers | planting of new trees

Alder Buckthorns planted by pupils  Emma Nolan

Five South Dublin schools were involved in the Tidy Towns Plantathon last week as part of ESB Tree Week. Vo l u n t e e r s f r o m Colaiste Iosagain, Stillorgan, Our Lady of Good Counsel B.N.S, Johnstow n, Scoil Mhuire, Rathsallagh, Shankill, St. Augustine’s Special School, Blackrock and Woodbrook College, Woodbrook in Bray planted 380 Alder Buckthorns, the host plant for the Brimstone Butterfly in several loca-

tions within the Shankill and Ballybrack areas. In addition a further 220 Alder Buckthorns and over 600 native trees were planted on school grounds throughout the county inside the last week. Co-ordinated with this was The Brimstone Butterfly Project which was launched by Marley Grange Residents Association in partnership Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and is one of four Biodiversity in Action Projects which aim to enhance our natural

environment. The Brimstone Butterfly Extension Project is supported by DLR Parks and Environment Awareness sections with the aim of encouraging the Brimstone Butterfly back to Dublin. Speaking of the impact of ESB Tree Week, An Cathaoirleach Cllr Barry Saul (FG) said: “It is fantastic to see the level of enthusiasm of pupils of local schools and Shankill Tidy Towns committee in their efforts to increase the number of trees in our local area,

all of which greatly helps to enhance the biodiversity of our environment in Dun Laoghaire Rathdown.” Currently in its 32nd year, ESB Tree Week which ran from March 6 – 13, aims to encourage Irish people to get outside, to learn about, grow and, most importantly, enjoy trees. ESB Tree Week is organised by the Tree Council of Ireland with the support of Coillte Ireland, County Councils across the country and is sponsored by ESB.

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RNLI RESCUE

Walkers rescued from rising tide T wo walkers were rescued by the RNLI inshore lifeboat from Dun Laoghaire last Sunday March 13 when the rising tide surrounded them half a mile from shore off Sandymount. The pair raised the alarm by mobile phone to the Irish Coast Guard Dublin rescue co-ordination centre (MRCC Dublin) giving details of their difficulty. They then attempted to walk towards shore but with the water-level waist deep and rising they returned to the sandbank to await rescue. Their phone became water-logged in the fastrising tide and with two hours to high-water, the sea-level was rising faster than walking in waterlogged clothing would allow. MRCC Dublin contacted the RNLI Inshore lifeboat (ILB) from Dun Laoghaire that was on exercise with four volunteer crew on board and requested that they proceed immediately to the scene. The Irish Coast Guard helicopter at Dublin Airport was also tasked and both arrived on scene at 12.15pm The ILB crew walked the remaining 50-metres with life-jackets for the two walkers who were then brought by lifeboat to Dun Laoghaire. Neither was harmed. Robert Fowler, Deputy Launching Authority with Dun Laoghaire RNLI said: “Walking on our local beaches is very popular but care is needed as the tide is constantly changing. “From low-tide to high, water-level can become several metres deep in the course of a long-walk at the waters’ edge.” The ILB is one of two lifeboats stationed by the RNLI at Dun Laoghaire and is ideal for operating in shallow water and close to rocks.

Photographed (L-R) are Dearbhla Lawson (Director of Economic, Community and Cultural Development, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council); Paul Merriman (Founder, ClearChoice.ie); Cllr. Barry Saul (An Cathaoirleach, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council) and Eibhlin Curley (Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office DLR).

awards | National enterprise awards select Clearchoice.ie

Financial software company proves to be a clear winner  EMMA NOLAN

A Sandyford based financial software company has won a place at the National Enterprise Awards representing all of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown. ClearChoice.ie is a financial software company that will represent Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County at the National Enterprise Awards this coming June. The local company, which employs four staff, was set up by Paul Merriman in 2015 with the objective of raising the knowledge, standards and quality of advice within the financial planning industry. Merriman became a

financial broker in 2010, having previously worked directly for Irish Life. The company also employs Sales Director Paul Kelly, Senior Product Analyst Conor Byrne and Product Analyst Joseph O’Shaughnessy. They designed a system and product training service specifically for financial brokers to address the daily challenge all financial brokers face in analysing the most suitable protection product for a client. ClearChoice.ie now goes head to head with thirty other high achieving businesses, to win a share of the €20,000 national prize fund. Run every year by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices

in the Local Authorities Network, the National Enterprise Awards were set-up to celebrate the achievements of Ireland’s micro-enterprise sector. The announcement of the winner and presentation of prizes was made by An Cathaoirleach of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Cllr Barry Saul (FG), at a ceremony in the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire. The other winners were Timothy and James McElroy of HouseMyDog.ie who picked up the Technology Award, Peter Roberts of Roberts of Dalkey won the Retail Award while Siobhan Berry of MummyCooks. ie won the Health and Lifestyle Award and the

Merits Awards went to Julie Swan of ForgottenChina.ie and Vincent Keogh of Xeraphic.com. The six county finalists shared a €10,000 cash prize fund and each business received a free short

for enterprises in the county. From start-ups to small businesses looking to expand, the Local Enterprise Office mentors entrepreneurs every step of the way. “The National Enter-

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‘From start-ups to small businesses looking to expand, the Local Enterprise Office mentors entreprenuers every step of the way’

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promotional video profiling their venture. Speaking at the Awards, Cllr Barry Saul said: “Our Local Enterprise Office supports hundreds of small businesses and start-ups every year, as the first stop shop

prise Awards are a way of shining the international spotlight on their success stories and giving local businesses the recognition they deserve. The County has a vibrant start up and small business community and this

awards competition is an important way of telling their success stories.” The local winner will meet the judging panel in April, for a chance to win one of twelve awards and the top prize of €10,000 for their business at the National Enter prise Awards ceremony on June 9 in the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. Awards entrants are judged on areas such as company competitiveness, use of technology, responsiveness to market trends alongside their own leadership qualities. Further details about the supports available to local start-ups and small businesses are available through www.localenterprise.ie.

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dundrum Gazettegallery | Irish premier of TRADERS

Ray D’Arcy and actor Peter O’Meara

Fighting for the number 1 spot

Peter Murphy, Rachael Moriarty and actor Killian Scott . Pictures: Patrick O’Leary

Hannah Malone and James Eastlake

Kate Hennessy and Conor Farrell Jennifer Grace and Laura Murphy

Laura McNicholas and Susan Boyle

Allison Dempsey

raders tells the story of Harry Fox (Killian Scott) who seems to have it all, the luxury apartment, the fancy car but when the company he works for goes bust it looks like he will lose everything. A solution is offered by Vernon Stynes (John Bradley) who has masterminded a diabolical, all-or-nothing scheme based on the Deep Web, called Trading. Two strangers empty their banks accounts, sell their assets and put their entire worth in cash into a green sports bag. They travel to a remote location and fight to the death. Winner buries the loser and walks away twice as rich. Vernon believes Trading is a no-brainer for anyone who wants to get rich quick. Can Harry resist the lure of such a high risk gamble? It’s dangerous and it’s illegal but it could solve all his problems.

Stuart Switzer, Rachael Moriarty and Peter Murphy

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Gazettegallery

| special Women’s event at Royal Hospital Kilmainham

Able seaman Leia Wall and Pte Chole Carroll chatting to Vice Admiral Mark Mellett DSM chief of staff from The

Women’s role in Rising recognised

Irish Defence Forces

Marge Almqvist shows the President a patchwork quilt with a panel dedicated to each notable woman from the 1916 rising

Members of the women’s performance group, Flames not Flowers

President Higgins, his wife Sabina, Tanaiste Joan Burton, Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Heather Humphreys and Dublin Lord Mayor Criona Ni Dhalaigh and the creators of the patchwork quilt (behind) with a panel dedicated to each notable women from the 1916 rising

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Gazette

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dublinlife

diary

Sports stars, doctors and nurses are careers of choice for children Research has revealed that Dublin kids want to be sports stars, doctors and nurses when they grow up. A new nationwide research study among Irish children reveals what Dublin boys and girls want to be when they grow up and also what the best and worst things about being a child in Ireland are in 2016. The research undertaken by Calpol for their Let Kids Be Kids campaign, shows that among Dublin children aged 6 to 12, 31% want to be a sports star, 19% percent want to be a doctor and 17% hope to become a nurse. The study also found that only 9% of Dublin children want to be a teacher compared with 31% of children from the wider Leinster region. 17% want to be a singer and 14% percent want to reach for the stars and become an astronaut. Nationally there were also some interesting findings with kids revealing that playing with friends is the very best thing about being a child, closely followed by getting presents at birthday and Christmas time (60%) and going on holidays with family (30%).

Lidl staff smash fundraising goal Lidl staff in Dublin South are celebrating as they have raised €97,829 for their chosen charity, Barretstown. This has helped the retailer smash their national fundraising target by raising €1.2m for Barretstown, €200,000 more than their initial tar-

get of €1m in three years. The funds will go towards providing programmes that are medically endorsed and designed to give children back their confidence and self-esteem. Over the past three years, Lidl’s 3,500 strong workforce have held fundraising events across the country, donating in excess of 7,200 volunteer hours of their time in over 170 events. To find out more visit www.barretstown.org, like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @ Barretstown.

Riverdance to run at the gaiety Riverdance is returning home this summer for a limited run in the Gaiety Theatre. As part of the show, which will run from June 14 to August 28, audiences will have the chance to purchase the VIP package which will be available each Tuesday, Friday and Saturday evening from Friday, June 17 to Saturday, August 27. Costing a total of €91, the VIP package includes a premium seat in the parterre, early access to the theatre to watch onstage rehearsal and warm up, a Q&A with members of the Riverdance cast before the show, and a meet and greet with the principal dancers afterwards. Go to ticketmaster.ie to book.

When Does a Temperature become a Fever? Alt h o u g h f e v e r accompanies most mild

childhood illnesses, new research by Nurofen for Children has revealed almost half of new mums in Dublin (49%), do not know what temperature a fever begins (37.8°C), with Dublin mums ranking as the least likely, to recognise a fever. Commissioned by the pain relief brand, this research was carried out among 400 first time mothers as part of the #FeverFighters campaign. The survey also asked what the biggest challenge was when becoming a parent for the first time and although expectant mothers are often warned about the lack of sleep once the baby arrives, 42% of Dublin mums said the lack of sleep was the most challenging thing about becoming a parent. To support the launch, Nurofen for Children is also launching a new app which aims to help mums and dads manage the day to day aspects of being a new parent.

new Leap Family Card launched A new, promotional Leap Family Card has been launched by the N a t i o n a l Tr a n s p o r t Authority on March 2, in a bid to encourage families to use public transport during the 1916 centenary celebrations. Costing only €10, the Leap Family Card gives a family of two adults and up to four children (aged 18 or under) 24-hours unlimited travel in and around the Greater Dublin Area on Dublin Bus, Luas, Bus Eireann, DART and commuter rail.

The €10 Leap Family Card (2 x adult + 4 x children) costs the same as one adult’s daily travel cap, and is valid across all travel modes in the Greater Dublin Area. The card is also €4 cheaper than the Dublin Bus one-day family rambler (€14) and €10 cheaper than the Irish Rail equivalent (€20), saving parents using public transport money. A total of 50,000 limited edition Leap Family Cards have been made available, and two family cards are available per order. The money-saving card is available from www. leapcard.ie

Dublin set to celebrate rich melodic heritage MusicTOWN will return to Dublin next month to celebrate the rich melodic heritage and modern-day musical maestros of the city. Organised by Dublin City Council, the festival showcases the vast musical talent and vibrant musical culture that permeates throughout Dublin. MusicTown’s eclectic programme has something for all ages and interests, celebrating all types of music created and enjoyed throughout the city today; from classical to pop, trad to rock, psychedelic to opera, electronic and everything in between. Expect performances from Neneh Cherry, Mary Coughlan, David Kitt, Ye Vagabonds and fun events like a Diva Singalong Party in MVP,

Mu Mu Cheng and Cora Zhang from Falun Dafa, pictured at last year’s Mind, Body, Spirit and Yoga Festival which runs in the RDS, Dublin, from Friday, March 18 to Sunday 20. Picture: Conor McCabe

a Ukulele Tuesday in The Stags Head and blues night in JJ Smyths. Some events are free and some have a nominal charge. For further information and tickets visit musictown.ie

strengthening Irish and French connections An event to strengthen the links between Ireland and France and enhance the long-standing friendship that exists between Ireland, France and other French-speaking countries of the world will take place in Dublin Castle next month. The seventeenth edition of the Franco-Irish Literary Festival will continue the tradition that led to Dublin’s nomination as a UNESCO City of Literature with the theme Food For Thought running throughout the event. The festival showcases different artists and also offers an Irish audience the opportunity to discover French writers. The event will take place in the Alliance Francaise from April 8 till 10, all events are free and open to the public.

submissions sought for Mine Anthology An anthology of stories and art representing the struggle for women’s full reproductive rights in Ire-

land is calling for submissions. “Mine” will feature art, comics and illustrations with stories on the theme of repealing the 8th Amendment to the Constitution, reproductive rights and bodily autonomy. The creative project, led by Karen Harte and Jessica Maybury, has been developed to support the current campaign to repeal the 8th Amendment. The requirements for submissions are 1 to 2 pages of A5 artwork, 300dpi, colour TIFF or PDF and the deadline for submissions is April 13 2016. Karen Harte, graphic designer, illustrator and co-creator of “Mine’”said: “The current campaign to repeal the 8th Amendment is gaining momentum. In order to raise awareness of this critical issue for women and men in Ireland, we want to support the Abortion Rights Campaign “We would urge anyone who has a story to tell to get in touch with us - even if you don’t think you can draw, collaborate with a friend and work on something together. “We want to build up a collection of voices that show the impact that this barrier to fundamental rights is having on people in Ireland and all over the world.”

HOLISTIC AND WELLBEING FESTIVAL How our 21st century screen addictions are making us fatter and the psychology behind losing weight will be revealed at Ireland’s biggest wellbeing event the Mind, Body, Spirit and Yoga Festival in the RDS from March 18 to 20. The festival offers the chance to discover the latest techniques in self-development and life-enhancing positive psychology with 75 talks by top Irish and international experts plus exhibits by over 150 complementary and healing practitioners. Health scientist Dr Ailis Brosnan, who specialises in diet psychology, will be exploring what motivates, and crucially doesn’t motivate, people into making healthy eating and lifestyle choices, and a former industrial psychologist, now nutritional therapist, Karen Ward, will show how diet helped her recover from her virulent Crohn’s disease which, at one stage, necessitated life-saving surgery. With over 150 stands, visitors can explore everything from angels and aromatherapy to Reiki and reflexology. Tickets €12, three-day pass €30, children free.

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Gazette

dublinlife OPINION We cannot ignore Syrian conflict IT’S often hard to get our heads around figures past a certain threshold: 30 billion WhatsApp messages sent ever y day; £90m for a Premier League footballer; 60 million people displaced by conflict globally. These numbers are so large they mean almost nothing – and why should they? They are vague and distant, and have little relation to daily life. One figure that isn’t hard to get our heads

around is five. War in Syria has been ongoing now for five years. That’s longer than World War 1, and gaining fast on World War 2. In those years, a host of vast and ambiguous figures have come pouring out of the now ravaged country – 470,000 people reported dead; 12 million people displaced; and 4.7 million Syrian refugees. These numbers are vast, but they can’t be dismissed. What’s more, it’s not

just the numbers that sound foreign and confusing. We have heard new words, places and names repeated on reports and news bulletins. Barrel bombs, ISIS, Daesh, Assad, Kurds, Caliphate, Homs and Aleppo have become part of standard conversation on Syria. Words that can carry as much horror for those who truly know their meaning as the figures they are a part of. Like so many countries

that violently command our attention, western knowledge of Syria was sparse before the conflict. Often described as a beating heart of Arabian culture and character, the Mediterranean state has been all but wiped of its rich and distinct identity. In its place, a new Syrian identity has emerged among a myriad contradictory and perplexing myths, misinformation and truths. It took Europe and the West too long to sit up and pay attention but, as with many humanitarian crises, time and escalation has forced a response. When the number of Syrians arriving on European shores exploded last year, Syrian identity evoked empathy, welcoming hearts and open minds. As numbers continued to swell, this became shrouded in negative stereotypes and fearmongering. What started as another chapter in the Arab Spring has descended into a devastating civil war. Like Yemen, Libya and Egypt before it, the revolt which once brought such hope to millions has left already fragile institutions and societies smouldering. Syrians have seen their homes destroyed, families tortured and killed, and their once proud identity go up in smoke. Syrians fleeing war now find themselves accused of terrorist attacks and of carrying out the atrocities they flee. The response of European states has been mostly characterised by hostility and force. Fences, tear gas, riot police and NATO warships have met refugees seeking sanctuary. One exception is the German chancellor, Angela Merkel. It can fairly be said that she failed to assemble a sufficient coalition of domestic and

Barry Andrews, chief executive, GOAL – The numbers and statistics relating to the conflict in Syria are staggering, but we must not ignore their impact on Syrians

international allies before deciding upon her openborders policy. Without support, she has proven a beacon of hope for refugees fleeing their homeland. European leaders can learn a lot. European leaders must follow through, and expand upon, commitments to take in more refugees under relocation and resettlement programmes. This would a positive response but by no means a definitive one. First and foremost, humanitarian supply routes have to be protected. One reality of the Syrian war is that humanitarian organisations working on the ground are no longer just a legitimate target, but a preferred one. While organisations like GOAL act as a barrier to depopulation and control, the bullseye is planted firmly on our supply routes, kitchens and employees. Secondly, reading the

papers and listening to news coverage of the conflict, we would be forgiven for thinking there are no routes to peace. This is simply untrue. Intervention must come from the UN Security Council; otherwise, people will keep dying. With imprecise rockets, unguided bombs and mass killings the norm, there is no safety or reality of security in Syria. More than one in 10 Syrians has been wounded or killed since the conflict began. More than 330 attacks on medical facilities. Life expectancy has dropped from 71 in 2010 to 55 in 2015. These numbers are horrific, yet here at GOAL, we like to focus on different figures. With more than 400 staff in-country, GOAL has several large-scale programmes targeting the most vulnerable people within Syria with food assistance and safe water initiatives. Our current projects have benefitted

more than two million people in total. That makes this is the largest programme in our history. Two million is also a very large figure, but for everyone at GOAL, it is familiar and clear. It is a critical part of what we work on every day and we are very proud of it. Figures like this won’t end the conflict. That outcome has to come from European leaders, alongside the United Nations Security Council. The ultimate question remains: what number will ultimately define this conflict? The number of deaths? The number of refugees taken in by European countries? The number of years fighting eventually lasts for? Five years is long enough. Any longer, and we might not be able to get our heads around it.  barry andrews Chief executive, GOAL www.goalglobal.org

17 March 2016 Gazette 15

a day in the life: Maia Dunphy

The mother of all jobs  Emma Nolan

Motherhood suits Maia Dunphy. Following the birth of her son Tom last July, with husband Johnny Vegas, Dunphy has been settling into her new role as a mum and balancing everything that comes with it and continuing to work. She sat down with The Gazette last week to discuss a day in her life as a working mum. “I don’t like routine which is just as well because we don’t have one – it’s absolutely chaotic,” she said. Dunphy is currently working with Neurofen on their Fever Fighters campaign which she said really resonated with her as a first time mum as it as educated her on dealing with what to do when a baby has a fever and other problems. “As part of the Neurofen campaign, I’ve met sleep experts and doctors who talk about the importance of routine and my

Maia Dunphy with baby, Tom

face kind of fell and they said if you don’t have one, that’s also fine. Thank god because we’re really quite chaotic people. “I hate early mornings, but they’re inevitable with Tom,” she said. “So I’m normally up anytime between half six and eight and with a baby there is a certain amount of routine. There is a danger if you’re not working that you can sit in your pyjamas for too long, I try not to do that.” Dunphy said that wherever she is in the world, the first thing she does is check Twitter and emails; “I’m unhealthily obsessed with Twitter,” she jokes. “The trouble is, sometimes I end up on Twitter for an hour.” Even though she’s not working full time at the moment, she said there is “always a tonne of emails”. “The day is peppered with baby naps and feeding times and I’m doing a lot of development work at the moment, coming up with ideas for pitches and things like that.”

She said that her walk with Tom is an essential part of her day. As for living in London, Dunphy says that there are “lonely aspects” to it. “It’s tough when you’re a mum and everyone’s on the nine to five and they want to go out on Friday and Saturday night and I can’t because I’m wrecked. If you’re not careful about it, I think having a baby can be isolating so you have to make the effort to get out and do things. “In London I was quite bad at getting involved in any mother and toddler groups but Tom and I now do swimming lessons once a week,” she said. “Monday mornings I always get up and say ‘Ok this week is going to be structured’ and suddenly it’s Wednesday I’m knackered and Tom might have a temperature and I realise that nothing I had planned to do has been done but I’ve learned to kind of go, you know what, that’s ok as well.”

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18 Gazette 17 March 2016

OUT&ABOUT

Parfois; Pink bag - €29

Thomas Sabo; Skull rose and black love bridge bracelet - €259

Gionni; Bow tote bag - €58 (At River Island; pink cold shoulder swing

Debenhams, Shaws and Pamela

dress - €55

Scotts)

Introduce your wardrobe to pink’s many versatile charms  emma nolan

GRACING the spring/summer runways of fashion week from Milan to New York was a resurgence of romanticism and pretty pinks, just in time for the brighter days ahead. After many muted seasons of minimalistic and subdued trends, the pink hues have added a sense of buoyancy to some collections. Stella McCartney and Roberto Cavalli flirted with dusty rose quartz, while Emporio Armani and Mara Hoffman delivered an extensive array of pale blush and cherry blossom. While some may be apprehensive about introducing pink to a muted palette, adding accessories gradually is a great way to take part in the trend without diving head first into it. Available in Debenhams and Pamela Scott, Gionni’s spring/sum-

mer handbag offers a taste of the coveted trend to everyone. The dainty pale pink bow cross body bag for €48 and the classic bow tote €58 are the perfect entry point into updating a winter wardrobe to spring, particularly as it is too cold in Dublin to even think about shedding layers. The classic tote also comes in a peachy hue with gold zip detail, and the striped crossover bag delivers its pink through an accent of snakeskin. River Island’s cold shoulder swing dress and frill blouse are two simple ways to nod to the trend, and the bloom cross bag from Parfois and Thomas Sabo’s skull rose and black lovebridge bracelet are all unique ways to take on the trend. So, bring on the pink and enjoy a welcome, trendy reprieve from the rigid minimalism of seasons past.

Spreading colour, print and happiness  emma nolan

The spring summer 2016 collection from Oasis is all about spreading colour, print and happiness. This is a something for everyone collection with a vibrant maximalist offering. Pretty is a priority for most garments

but is juxtaposed by top to toe tailoring, softened by paper bag waists and belted bows. Ruffled shirts add texture and drama, while the suits pair perfectly well with a classic tee for a more casual approach. Stripes feature prominently in this collection in the form of a chic

Breton off the shoulder number, while darkened vertical candy stripes in cornflower blue and mustard yellow get a look in as well as a navy pin stripe co-ordinate, in that ever modern long vest silhouette. Classic feminine shapes, the spaghetti strap and bardot neck-

line feature in the form of little black dresses and clashing floral prints alongside jackets of soft summer suede. Find Oasis stores at St Stephen’s Green, Dundrum Town Centre, Blackrock, Nasau Street, Liffey Valley and Blanchardstown Shopping Centres.

17 March 2016 Gazette 19

Our fab fashion

Gazette

STYLE

WE HAVE picked five of our favourite beauty products this week – from lipsticks to shower gels, these are five beauty items that are sure to bring you from spring through to summer!

1 Fleur - Osmanthus shower gel, €9.90; 2 Nuxebody - Fragrance water, €30; 3 The Body Shop - Drops of Light pure clarifying face wash, €23.95; 4 NYX - Jumbo eye pencil, Rocky Mountain Green, €4.99; 5 YSL - Rouge Volupte Shine N46, €33

Gazette

20 Gazette 17 March 2016

OUT&ABOUT

FOOD&DRINK

BITESIZEDNEWS

The Dylan Hotel’s Easter chocolate afternoon tea is sure to delight chocaholics

A deliciously tempting deal at the Dylan Hotel

The Old Spot

European gastropub

Sandymount

 emma nolan

When in Sandymount,

FOODIES and chocoholics take note – the Dylan Hotel (just off Baggot Street) is offering an indulgent Easter Chocolate Afternoon Tea this Easter, which includes an assortment of decadent chocolate creations. Head chef Mark Bodie has created a selection of specially-crafted chocolate treats with chocolate lovers in mind to enjoy with classic high tea bites and a glass of prosecco. Guests will be served a taste of the sticky caramel and milk chocolate tartlet served with cherry gel, a melt-in-your-mouth chocolate brownie with chewy chocolate marshmallow, and a peanut butter and dark chocolate truffle. Also on offer are chocolate financiers, served with caramelised pears, and chocolate mousse and white chocolate mousse, served with chocolate shortbread. Along with the chocolate treats is the traditional bill of fare, including finger sandwiches with various filling of classic egg mayonnaise and cucumber, a goat’s cheese mousse with beetroot, and duck liver parfait served on chocolate brioche. Dylan’s Easter afternoon tea is priced at €40 per person and is available from March 20 until April 3 from 12pm until 5pm every day. The hotel is also offering an Easter package, which includes an overnight stay and a complimentary full Irish breakfast for €259 per room for two sharing. Pre-booking is required at www.dylan.ie.

Delicately crafted chocolates add to the high tea esperience at the hotel throughout Easter

food, drinks and even

BATH Avenue in Sandymount is a right little mecca for foodies, with numerous stylish eateries having popped up there in the last few years. On a recent night out, we ate in The Old Spot, which is a gastropub of sorts but they are delivering big on quality, presentation and most importantly, flavours. Very bad diners that we are, we were running quite late but had called ahead to let the restaurant know. The staff were neither flustered or annoyed by this. We were shown to our seats and two Basil Sours later, we had settled in for a gregarious night. The tartness of the lime, mixed with the sweetness of the basil, p a c ke d t h e p e r f e c t punch in this cocktail and my husband had to practically be restrained from licking the glass. For starter, I went for a tuna carpaccio, served

aim for The Old Spot and a dining experience that won’t disappoint, based on Picky’s experience. The staff service all hit the spot with ease, making it well worth dropping in to.

The Picky Eater with pickles and some guacamole, while my other half went for an old favourite – seared scallops. The tuna was light and refreshing, seared just the right amount, and the accompanying pickles married the dish together so well, every mouthful was a taste explosion, and actually was set off very well by the Basil Sour. For mains, we went for something quite spectacular: the 28 Day Dry Aged Cote de Bouef Surf and Turf, with a stunning rocket, parmesan and pear salad side, as well as some sprouting broccoli. We asked for the beef to be cooked medium, and the cut was certainly that. A beautiful shade of pink sprang from the serving board and we actually did not know where to begin on this exquisite dish. My husband was right when he said: “That’s too good to spoil with

sauces.” The flavours were intense and the beef was melt-in-themouth. I did sample some of the bernaise and horseradish, both of which accompanied the meat beautifully, but this dish was a triumph on its own. My hubby was hankering after an apple crumble for dessert, but sadly they’d run out so he sampled three flavours of homemade ice cream – gingerbread, roasted banana and Ferrero Rocher. They had a mascarpone, which had also been scoffed earlier in the night, but the three he chose were superb. Our lovely waiter recommended a Spanish rioja, which wasn’t too full bodied but accompanied the flavours in the meat with ease. Staff on the whole are friendly and very attentive, and made our evening out a really fun experience.

Picky wouldn’t normally highlight a drink alone, but the Basil Sours were truly cocktails to savour

Conclusion IT’S been quite a while since Picky found a spot with such perfect fare, but The Old Spot (at 14 Bath Avenue, Sandymount, Dublin 4; tel 01 660 5599) really hit the mark. The dishes were delicious, and the staff also made it a pleasure to dine there, too.

17 March 2016 Gazette 21

Gazette

GAMING WEEBYTES

No Man’s Sky will be just too vast to fully explore

An early nod at the biggest ever game ... IF YOU thought that exploring one game world takes too much time, how about trying to explore 18 quintillion of them? That’s the total number of worlds – planets, actually – that PS4 exclusive No Man’s Sky promises to deliver later this year, following its June release. The game’s 18,446,744,073,709,551,616 (yes, that many) planets all feature in a vast, procedurally generated universe, whereby some clever coding and algorithms creates everything from the smallest blade of grass to the biggest solar systems, all on the fly. Players are tasked with making their way from their starting planet out on the edge, all the way in to the heart of the galaxy, upgrading as they go, as they explore and mine planets, find resources, upgrade their suits and ships – and much, much more ... With such a gigantic game – both literally, and in scope – many critics and gamers have been very interested in this unique title, yet also apprehensive. Just what do you do, exactly? Luckily, a round of fresh media previews have started to reveal that – pun intended – the sky’s the limit in this game. Look out for another preview soon ...

The developers have done an excellent job of capturing the look and feel of Manhattan’s urban canyons and streets

The Division adds up to a compelling title

THERE’S no doubt that the vision of a largely abandoned and postChristmas New York that’s been ravaged by a very, very deadly bioweapon plague in The Division (PC, XBO, PS4; Cert 18) is a very good looking game, whatever platform you play on. It’s one of the biggest releases of the year, and has been creating quite a stir for some time now ahead of its release. As a Division agent, y o u ’r e t a s ke d w i t h helping to restore order in the city – to gather together survivors, find food and medicine, rescue hostages, that sort of thing. However, plenty of gangs, looters and bad guys are also fighting to take over the city, as Division agents and what remains of the authorities struggle to reclaim the city. As you traverse much of the lower third of Manhattan completing missions, you get points in a variety of fields with which to upgrade your character, your home base, and a

 shane dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com

number of abilities in a pretty comprehensive skill set tree. Considering that, depending on your play style, you can shape your character to have some pretty unique abilities, it’s not hard to see the appeal for gamers looking to play with characters who don’t fit the usual archetypes for such open-world games, such as The Tank, The Sniper, The Medic, and so on. As you play, rewards and finds reveal all kinds of stats to enhance, with the constant drip-feed of loot (often common and worthless, occasionally rare and very useful) providing plenty of incentive to continue exploring, levelling up your character, and fighting to help save the city. Given the extensive mission-led content –

although the multiplayer aspect (see below) is much less organised – and the way that gamers truly shape and choose their character’s development, it’s hard to see The Division as anything other than a roleplaying game, rather than a straightforward shooter. Still, regardless of whether you’re looking for an engaging story with decent shooter elements – or vice versa – The Division should satisfy, with its densely recreated version of Manhattan being a particularly attractive setting. Indeed, the dystopian setting is a singularly attractive one, with the richly detailed streets and multitude of buildings and landmarks presented in style, thanks to some terrific lighting and weather effects, as well as its day/night cycle. A s o n e o f 2 016 ’s major games releases, The Division doesn’t disappoint, and should unite gamers and critics alike with solid praise.

Whether exploring Manhattan’s streets and seeing well-known buildings and landmarks, or wandering into looted stores and abandoned buildings, there’s an awful lot to see and find. Screengrabs: Shane Dillon

Gazette

22 Gazette 17 March 2016

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

ReelReviews

eddie the eagle

Wings it with the facts BRITAIN’S worst (but highly popular) athlete, “Eddie the Eagle” (Cert 12A, 106 mins) gets an affectionate big-screen treatment that plays a little hard and fast with the facts, but nonetheless delivers a warm-hearted underdog tale. Forever famous as a rather hopeless but very, very determined ski jumper at the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics, Eddie Edward’s story is pleasantly told.

Kung Fu Panda 3

Makes impressive moves PO IS back with his latest outing, as Kung Fu Panda 3 (Cert PG, 95 mins) once again sees the very unlikely martial arts expert team up to stop a very bad guy. This time round, Po has a very unlikely group of would-be martial experts to train up – an entire tribe of pandas. It’s largely more of the same for the franchise, but when it looks this good and has such spirited performances, that’s okay.

london has fallen Bangs for your bucks

AS THE sequel to Olympus Has Fallen, London (Cert 15A, 99 mins) offers more of the same – where the first film saw the US president in mortal danger, this time several world leaders are spectacularly bumped off in London. But did the bad guys think that the American president would be so easy to kill? It’s silly stuff that won’t trouble your braincells much, but is passable enough.

This laidback Icelandic film about two farming brothers living side by side and maintaining a decades long grudge presents plenty for the eyes, and the mind, too

rams: whether set in iceland or ireland, this farming tale rings true

An unexpected gem of a film

WITH all the simplicity and wryness of a folktale, Rams is a lowbudget film from Iceland that may offer one of the most unexpected cinema experiences of the year. Currently on limited release in Dublin, much of the surprise of Rams comes from its set-up, where director and writer Grimur Hakonarson has crafted what is arguably the most indie movie plot of all time. In a tiny rural community ensconced deep in an Icelandic valley, sheep-farming brothers Gummi and Kiddi carve out their bachelor existence under a blanket of contrived ignorance. The brothers have not spoken in 40 years, despite living practically next door to one another

 Dave phillips

on the family farm. A simple wire fence runs the length of the property, dividing one set of stock from the other, and also serves as a boundary for the brothers. Intermittent and essential communication over the decades is achieved by proxy. Hand-scrawled notes occasionally pass back and forth between the brothers by way of Kiddi’s sheep dog, who seems to remain cheerfully unaware of any commotion.

More delicate matters are handled by way of other farmers in the valley, who seem to have grown and accepted the feud, working around it with all the caution that a force of nature deserves. There is a captivating familiarity in Hakonarson’s story as it unfolds, and that is due in part because, in Ireland, we are never too far removed from stories of rural eccentricity, farming feuds, and estranged brothers. However, Rams offers all the components of the kind of stories we are told as children – the apocryphal tales and urban legends that are meant to instil a lesson or truth about human experience. The brothers may not

give voice to their feelings toward one another; they are expressed in other ways. When Gummi is narrowly beaten by Kiddi in the community’s annual ram pageant, he suspects that his brother’s animal is infected by Scrapie – the ovine equivalent of BSE. While Kiddi initially puts the accusation down to his brother’s jealousy, the threat of the disease – which would require the culling of all the stock in the valley – is too much for the community to brush off. Shot in the remote northern valley of Budardalur, the natural environment plays a huge part in Rams, where the lives of the protagonists are marked

out upon a vast white backdrop that always seems poised to engulf them. Using a mix of Icelandic stage actors, films actors, and non-actors the film manages to maintain an odd style of authenticity. Much of Hakonarson’s previous work is on Icelandic documentaries, and that experience follows along in this feature. While winter is always looming on our visual peripheries, silence is always present and respected. The story slowly and steadily unfolds over an hour and a half, and for much of that time we are simply watching Gummi, or Kiddi, or the sheep (who all receive acting credits) further the plot through their

own often blundering actions, rather than conversations. T his awareness of observation is part of what makes Rams such a joy to sit through. Hakonarson expertly lulls us along in a state of pleasant bemusement, until in like all good fables, we uncover the kernel of truth. Quirky, stylish, and incredibly power ful, the most tragic element about this film is that it will inevitably slip by many people unnoticed this year. Rams is a little gem of a film, that ostensibly is about feuding sheep farmers, but at its heart, is a poignant reminder of the human necessity for connection. Seek it out while you still can. Verdict: 9/10

17 March 2016 Gazette 23

Gazette

HEALTH Supporting cellular health

“Small boutique style operations have filled the void left by big box gym closures.”

Q&A: Heath & Fitness Together, Ranelagh

Resisting the hardships of the recent recession  Carl Cautley

Owner, Health and Fitness Together

Q: I believe your 10th anniversary is coming up soon? Carl: Yes, I can’t believe it is 10 years since we opened our first studio on Leinster Road, Rathmines. We operated out of a small Mews and we had two rooms. At the time, the concept of private 1-to-1 training was unique and business thrived over the first two years. Q: So you opened in 2006, what happened at the end of 2008 when the bank crisis began? Carl: It was a strange time. The media, clients, friends and family all believed it was a short term glitch. Business fell briefly but then rebounded in April/May 2009. At the time we thought the glitch was over, little did we realise. Q: How do you mean? Carl: When we headed into the summer of 2009 we realised this was a much bigger problem than most thought. Con-

fidence in the economy started to decline rapidly and thus we started to feel the consequences. Business dropped off dramatically as people started to feel the crunch. Q: So what did you do? Carl: We basically went from a profitable start-up to a loss making business overnight. The stress levels were high but we were determined to see it through. We had to change the business model completely. I came from an advertising/marketing back ground where sales and the top line were paramount. Now, for the first time, I had to look at costs. Everything was forensically analysed; staff reduced, rent and franchise fees re-negotiated, loans re-engineered, cost of supplies and utilities reduced. When we were finished the monthly saving was down by about 30%. This, of course, didn’t increase profit as all of the savings were passed on to the client. Q: How did this affect

your business? Carl: The number of clients using our facility dropped by about 40% but there were still enough loyal clients to keep the business going and a reasonable trickle of new clients for us to remain optimistic. Q: I assume this status quo remained for quite a while? Carl: I would say that after a seven-year struggle, it is only in the last four months we have seen consistent growth. Q: Do you believe the recession is over? Carl: Since the bank guarantee of September 2008 we have seen a number of false dawns where we thought things were picking up but as soon as they did they crashed again. However, 2015/2016 is the first time we have seen four months of growth year-on-year. We are definitely more optimistic but cautious, as any negative world event could impact our economy and the first to take the brunt will be small businesses again.

Q: Even though there has been a recession, the health and fitness industry seems to be booming? Carl: Yes, but the industry has changed. The recession put a stop to the big box gyms. Total Fitness, Jackie Skelly and a few other big names went out of business. In their place small boutique style operations like our own have filled the void. Q: Tell us a little bit about your business? Carl: We started off providing one-to-one personal training in private rooms. This is still the mainstay of our business but we also now offer 2-to-1 personal training, small group training, physical therapy and nutrition. Basically a private training facility providing tailor-made services to suit anyone’s budget. Carl Cautley, Owner, Health & Fitness Together, 8 Appian Way, Ranelagh, Dublin 6. Tel. 496 5829 www.healthandfitnesstogether.ie carl@ fitnesstogether.ie

An Irish company is bringing the world’s most complete organic mineral supplement direct to consumers in Dublin for the first time. Cellnutrition is providing Quinton Hypertonic and Isotonic to the Irish market on its website www.cellnutrition.ie after the company secured the Ireland and UK distribution rights to the popular supplements. Quinton has a 100-year history of supporting cellular health in the body. It is mineral-rich seawater harvested under strict conditions from a plankton bloom which occurs naturally in a pristine, internationally-protected part of the Atlantic Ocean. Cellnutrition Quinton nourishes your cells with 78 minerals and trace elements that have proven benefits for the health of your skin, hair and nails. These nutrients support the function of your main detoxification organs – your liver, kidneys, lungs and skin – and counter the chemicals and toxins we absorb from beauty products every day.

Cellnutrition chief executive John Kelleher said: “Cellular health is vitally important – after all, cells are the fundamental building blocks of life. “Every muscle movement, every heartbeat, every breath, all the functions of your organs, everything your body does depends on you having healthy, functioning cells. “Without them you would not be able to bat an eyelid or form a thought. “That’s why we’ve brought Cellnutrition Quinton direct to families in Ireland, so that they can enjoy the incredible nutritional benefits that it can provide for your health and vitality.”

24 DUn laoghaire Gazette 17 March 2016

DUN LAOGHAIREGazettegallery | Liz O’Donnell and Noel Kelly

Honouring years of heroic work F

ire Restaurant in The Mansion House was the venue for the Lunch with Liz and Noel fundraiser in aid of Chernobyl Children International hosted by Liz O’Donnell and Noel Kelly. The annual event raises vital funds for children born with congenital heart defects as a result of

Chernobyl. The Irish glitterati were out in force to show their support for the event. CCI board director Liz O’Donnell said: “We are here to honour thirty years of heroic work by Adi and thousands of Irish volunteers supporting the poorest and most deserving people in Chernobyl affected regions.”

Marie Chawke ,Liz Rae, Alison Rae and Teresa Thornhill. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Norah Casey, Liz O’Donnell and Adi Roche

Louise Cosgrave and Marita Cosgrave

Colette Browne and Laura Gilthorpe

Claire Byrne, Elaine O’Neill and Geraldine O’Farrell

Cheyanne Elkhouly, Rionna Moulds and Emily Dunne

17 March 2016 dun laoghaire Gazette 25

host annual fundraiser for Adi Roche’s Chernobyl Children International

Fiona Creggan and Edel Fitzgerald

Joanna Butler and Catriona Kelly

Martin Wells and Deirdre Carton

Charlotte Somers and Oda O’Carroll

Julie Shynkarenkaand Adi Roche, Noel Kelly and Liz O’Donnell

Bill McCabe

26 dun laoghaire Gazette 17 March 2016

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planning Notice DĂ&#x161;N LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

Permission is sought for a 6 M2 front porch extension and new larger roof light for fire escape purposes, to the front of our house also two roof lights to the side guest bedroom en suite. Retention permission is sought for the change of use of the attic space to a 31.5 M2 bedroom en suite with roof light to the front at 53 Ballinclea Heights, K ill i n e y, C o . D u b l i n , for Fintan Butler and Bairbre Sheridan. 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, DĂşn Laoghaire during its public opening hours. A submission/observation may be made on payment of â&#x201A;Ź20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the p l a n n i n g a u t h o r i t y. 26433

planning Notice DĂ&#x161;N LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Celine Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Arcy wish to apply for Full Planning Permission for development at this site No. 9 Springhill Avenue, Blackrock, Co. Dublin. The development will consist of: Demolition of existing adjoining domestic garage/store, The addition of a single storey side extension, the addition of a canopy over porch to side, a two storey extension to the rear, enlarging the existing front dormer. Demolition & re-organisation of first floor and ground floor to facilitate the new layout, addition of roof lights on the proposed new roof and existing main roof Changing of fenestration on all elevations to allow for new layout, widening the existing vehicle entrance to allow for pedestrian and vehicle entrance with new footpath dishing, and all ancillary site works. The planning application may be inspected or purchased for a fee not exceeding a reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, DĂşn Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, during its public opening. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made on payment of â&#x201A;Ź20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the planning Authority. 26455

17 March 2016 DUn laoghaire Gazette 27

dun laoghaireCLASSIFIEDS planning Notice

planning Notice

DÚN LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

Retention planning permission is sought by Mr. M. Dolan for the conversion of the front garden to hardstanding and the construction of a single storey ground floor utility room to the rear of 8 Hillview Drive, Pottery Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. Full planning permission is also sought for the construction of a new first floor extension comprising of a new bedroom to the side the existing dwelling, alterations to the front, side and rear elevations of the existing dwelling and all associated site works. 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 and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Permission is sought for a) change of use 45 sqm of rear part of existing commercial use to residential use b) new dormer type window in the existing flat roof of no. 12 Georges Street Lower and demolishing 26 sqm of the rear single storey commercial unit to create external patio for new residential studio apartment at no 12 & 13 Georges Street Lower , Dun Laoghaire, co. Dublin, by Robert Furlong The planning application may be inspected or purchased for a fee not exceeding a reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, during its public opening hours of Monday to Friday from 10: 00am to 4: 00pm. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority, on payment of a fee of €20 within 5 weeks of receipt of the application by the Planning Authority. 26447

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Gazette

28 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 17 March 2016

SPORT Duff takes time over next move

FastSport

Soccer: irish legend adjusting to life after professional game

De la salle team up with mount anville:

DE LA Salle Churchtown’s A team, alongside Mount Anville, won the annual Badminton southside mixed doubles tournament on their home court last week. Eight sides took part in the competition alongside St Benildus College and four girls’ schools: St. Raphaela’s, Loreto Bray, Mount Anville and Saint Joesph’s, Cluny. In the competition, each boys team was paired with a girls team to form mixed doubles partnerships. The De La Salle and Mount Anville side emerged victorious in the final, beating the De La Salle B team paired with Saint Raphaela’s who they had already defeated earlier in the tournament. The winners were unbeaten throughout the competition winning against a combined St Benildus/St Joseph’s side and also the De La Salle C team who were playing with Loreto Bray.

 james hendicott sport@dublingazette.com

FORMER Leicester Celtic, Lourdes Celtic and St Kevin’s Boys youth player Damien Duff - who can also claim just the odd one hundred caps for Ireland - has spoken about the moment that finally forced his retire-

ment from professional soccer last year. “It was Bohs away in the Leinster Senior Cup,” Duff said last week, talking of the moment he decided to leave Shamrock Rovers. “I had a few niggles and what have you but I couldn’t kick a ball 30 yards. “I think we got

through to the final that night but I went home depressed. The missus was, like, ‘what’s wrong with you?’ I didn’t even tell her but I just knew in my heart of hearts.” Duff also admitted he’s turned out for TEK United alongside his brother Jamie since retiring from the Rovers midfield over the summer, though he only managed a single friendly game for the Leinster Senior League team, away in Enniskerry, before seeing a few of the tackles put him off. “I’d like to be able to walk, so I haven’t been back,” he quipped at Life Style Sports, while promoting their new Green Ticket competition to attend Euro 2016. Duff also spoke about

Damian Duff, above, in Ireland action and, below, signing for Shamrock Rovers

his options for work, admitting that he’s finding retirement’s “wearing a bit thin,” and mentioning the possibility of punditry for Euro 2016, despite his outspoken dislike of pundits. “I did enjoy it in a weird, sort of perverse sort of way,” Duff said of his recent experience with RTE. “That’s probably just me being out of my comfort zone; you’ve done okay then you come home and you’re ... oomph, a bit relieved, happy it went well.” The former star of the Irish midfield has also

been competing in fivea-side tournaments over recent months, including a trip to a competition in Russia, where he played in a team with other big-name former internationals including Gaizka Mendieta and Gianluca Zambrotta. “Being hard-working and honest, I’d like to feel as if I’ve earned a holiday or a trip. “I don’t want to turn into Kim Kardashian,” Duff said of the trip, whilst admitting that he’s not really sure what the future might hold. As for the Euros, Duff

hopes that Ireland will take their inspiration from the grit and togetherness of Leicester City, highlighting the fight against Bosnia in the play offs. “ We s t e a m - r o l l e d them with hunger, desire and hard work and it goes a long way as you can see with Leicester City,” he said. “You have to be positive.” Life Style Spor ts’ Green Ticket competition for Euro 2016 tickets can be found at w w w.lifestylespor ts. com/greenticket.

South Dublin Swans represent Ireland on Euro stage  sport@dublingazette.com

The South Dublin Swans Aussie Rules team

TERENURE-based South Dublin Swans’ Australian Rules Football team will take on the club champions of Europe next Saturday March 19 in Amsterdam in the AFL Europe Champions League. This event is for the winners of Aussie Rules leagues across Europe and both men’s and women’s competitions are being played. In the men’s competition, the Swans will have 12 rivals for the title of best club team in Europe. The opposition include 2015

champions the West London Wildcats. The Swans are sending a strong team for their first venture into European competition. Amongst the squad are experienced recent Irish Warriors Kevin Brennan, Bobby Byrne, Paul O’Halloran, Peter Ross and Darren Sheils. They will also have talented last season rookies in Brian O’Kane, Rob Monks and Liam Burns on the plane and the experienced Craig Wood and Darren Snell. The rest of the squad will include some of the greatest club

men in the history of the club including Ed Warren, Patrick Cummins, Noel Tate, Shane Thomas, Omar Mamad and Sean Guerin. The Swans have a long and successful time in the Australian Rules Football League of Ireland (ARFLI) having won three of the last five Premierships and also being the winner of the most Premierships in ARFLI history. However, it is going to be a tough task to be crowned Champions League champions but they are expected to put all their energy into bringing the title home.

17 March 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 29

Gazette

Galligan heads Irish challenge at worlds Former Clondalkin community games athlete is the sole Irish runner to compete at this week’s world indoor athletics championships despite having major funding limitations ROSE-Anne Galligan, who originally made her beginnings in athletics with Clondalkin’s Community Games team, will compete in the 1,500m as Ireland’s sole representative at the IAAF World Indoor Championships in Portland, Oregon, from March 17-20. Galligan, the national outdoor 800m record holder, set a personal best of 4.11.07 for the 1,500m at the Athlone International and will be looking to put in a competitive performance. Letterkenny’s Mark English was also originally named to compete but the 800m runner has had to withdraw due to an ankle injury. This comes as a major setback to the UCD medical student, who had run a season’s best of 1:46.99, which he set at the Glasgow Inter-

national, and would have had hopes of adding to his medal collection – a European outdoor bronze medal in 2014 and a silver medal at the European Indoors last year. Speaking about Galligan’s entry into the indoors, Athletics Ireland high performance director Kevin Ankrom, said: “Rose-Anne has wintered well and it will be good for her 800m development.” She qualified for the competition in spite of a difficult 2015 in which her funding was cut just a year after breaking Sonia O’Sullivan’s long-standing record for 800m. To help fund her Olympic dream this year, she has been working as a supply teacher in England in order to bolster her income and earn enough to take in altitude training trips to South Africa.

She is hopeful of earning enough to go again in April to kick-start her outdoor season but, again, getting the cash together is the crucial issue. “It is an added strain,” she said recently. “Fair enough, the way the funding works in Ireland is that you have to run a time and then you get your funding. “It’s a bit frustrating because I know that I am capable of running these times, and I need to go to these camps to help my training to get there. If you’re not on funding though, you have to fund it yourself. “I was on funding after I ran my national record and they kept me on in 2014 but then when I had a year when I didn’t perform last year…I put in my application but it was declined.

Rose-Anne Galligan is Ireland’s sole representative in Portland this week

“It’s just another burden you have. Luckily, I get my kit and my running shoes from New Balance so that is one thing I don’t have to worry about. “I’d do anything to get to the Olympics but it would be lovely to be able to put everything into the training and have

This forms part of her training preparations with the goal of getting a qualifying standard over 10,000m at the European Championships in Amsterdam in July and also potentially in Rio. Ireland will also be represented by Lizzie Lee and Paul Pollock at the World

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

‘It’s just another burden you have but I would do anything to get to the Olympics’ Rose-Anne Galligan

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

the funding. I work for an agency but I’m not going to sacrifice my training sessions. If I’m doing a session on a Tuesday and Thursday, I’m not going to work those days. If I know I’m working on a Monday, I’ll get up early and go run before going on to school.” Elsewhere, the county will also be represented by Fionnuala McCormack in the New York Half Marathon, as well as three more Dublin club runners, Segiu Ciobanu (Clonliffe Harriers), Sean Hehir (Rathfarnham) and Thomas Frazer (Crusaders), in the World Half Marathon in Cardiff. McCormack will run in the New York Half Marathon on March 20 before running over 10,000m on the track in Stanford on April 2.

Half Marathon in Cardiff on March 26. Lee will be the sole Irish woman in Cardiff due to the racing calendar and plans of the other leading Irish women. Paul Pollock will lead a full men’s team of five and will be looking to replicate his performance at the last edition of the Championships in Copenhagen in 2014 where he ran a swift 62:10 for 30th – still his personal best for the event. Pollock will also use the event as a sharpener for the London Marathon on April 17, where he hopes to seal a place on the Olympic marathon team. Dublin-based Ciobanu, Hehir and Frazer, as well as Northern Ireland’s Kevin Seaward (St Malachy’s) will flank Pollock in Wales as they bid to put in a good performance.

FastSport

Corporate 5km dates announced for summer ATHLETICS Ireland and Grant Thornton have announced this week the dates for the Grant Thornton Corporate 5k Team Challenge series for 2016. The locations and dates are the National Sports Campus in Fingal on Thursday, June 9 and The Mall, Cork City on Wednesday, June 29, with the flagship event taking place in the Dublin Docklands on Tuesday, September 13. The Corporate Challenge is organised by the national governing body Athletics Ireland whose mission is to support and develop the athletes of Ireland of all ages, disciplines and abilities. Aimed at encouraging social running amongst the business community in Dublin and Cork, the event welcomes both seasoned runners as well as beginners. Each run will be a team event and a minimum of four participants will enter with team members’ times combined to determine the winner. Event ambassador, Olympian and former London Marathon winner Catherina McKiernan said of the event: “The growth of the event is testament to the feel-good factor that running brings. “It is a fantastic sight to see so many runners taking part each year from the regular runner to the complete beginner; this event is a great way to encourage people to take the first step towards getting fit enough to run a 5k. “The team element adds a sense of fun and camaraderie amongst work colleagues in a really well organised event. I’m looking forward to being a part of it again this year.” Now in its fifth year this event goes from strength to strength with more people participating. The Docklands run last September was a sellout with over 5,000 runners from 139 different companies. John Foley, Chief Executive of Athletics Ireland, added: “As an association one of our core strategic objectives is to promote health and fitness in the population as a whole. “This event enables us to reach beyond our core membership into the business community by encouraging them to focus on a fitness programme which targets a 5k run; a good starter point for novice runners.”

Gazette

30 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 17 March 2016

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: ucd waves star joins exclusive group of irish players

Meteors claim Under-15 amid busy late schedule METEORS Ladies Basketball Club’s busy final phase of the season saw them play out a series of important games in the past week. At the Dublin Ladies Cup Weekend in Oblates Hall, the Under-15s were up first against a strong Templeogue side in a thrilling game. The teams had met twice already this year during their league campaign with a 1-1 split. Meteors eked out a small lead by the end of the first quarter; however, Templeogue fought to level and then go 23-22 ahead in the second quarter. The second half saw Meteors open up a clear lead and go on to win by 10 and lift the title. Rachel Rice dominated the boards and contributed a massive 21 points. The women’s Premier League side, meanwhile, played out closely fought semi-final in the DCU Arena last Sunday. The first few minutes saw DCU streak into an 11-2 lead but Meteors fought back and got to the halfway point with a six-point deficit. Already missing Beth Meany through injury, Meteors then saw Eimear Mairtin leave the game with a bad blood injury. Superb defence from Meteors saw them keep within sight of a win, but DCU produced some great moves to seal a 75-65 victory in the closing stages. The Under-13 Meteors team were in action against Liffey Celtics, and despite some superb play From Fiona Quinn as playmaker, they couldn’t contain the opposition defence and went down by 10 points.

O’Reilly claims national 400m and 200m title DSDAC’S Mollie O’Reilly once again displayed her quality at the national juvenile indoor championships in Athlone last weekend in the Under-19 400m final. She produced a

power packed display of front running that saw her win by a wide margin in 57.04. The 200m on Sunday was a different story as Ara Freeman, 60m specialist, put it up to O’Reilly early on. The DSDAC runner was not found wanting in the closing stages as she surged through to a personal best of 24.66.

UCD Waves’ Julie-Ann Russell reached an important landmark this week with Irish women’s side

Russell hits half century sport@dublingazette.com

UCD Waves and Republic of Ireland star JulieAnn Russell ticked off another milestone in her blossoming career by reaching 50 senior international caps last week. Russell started Ireland’s 1-0 defeat to Hungary in the Cyprus Cup on Monday and despite disappointment in the defeat, her appearance saw her join an exclusive club of current teammates Emma Byrne, Niamh Fahey and clubmate Aine O’Gorman of players with 50 caps or

more. Speaking after the defeat, the former Peamount midfielder spoke of her pride at reaching half a century of appearances for her country. “It was unbelievable,” she said. “To be honest, when I was younger and playing underage, I never really expected to be lining out for my country at senior level so then to reach my 50th cap was such an amazing experience.” Russell has hit the 50 mark despite being just 24. She is very much an experienced member of

nure’s new pitch Ulster Bank to support Lakelands 4G surface ulster Bank will sponsor Terenure College

RFC’s new 4G all weather pitch. Pictured at the event are Mary McGovern, Ulster Bank Terenure branch manager with Patrick ‘Rala’ O’Reilly, vice president of Terenure College RFC, and, from left, Oisin Heffernan, Robert Duke, former Ireland players Alan Quinlan and Girvan Dempsey, David Lynagh, assistant coach of Terenure College RFC, and Harrison Brewer. Picture: Matt Browne/Sportsfile

Sue Ronan’s squad, and a firm favourite with the Girls in Green’s loyal support due to her mazy runs from the wing. “I’d say a lot of people probably think I’m older because I’ve been around the scene a lot but I was introduced when I was 18 into the senior squad and I’ve kind of been in ever since so at 24 to reach 50 caps I’m really happy. “ Hopefully I’ve many more to come,” she said from Ireland’s base in Cyprus. Her club-career has saw her go from Galway to Los Angeles, and

Peamount to Doncaster before settling at UCD. Looking back at her 50 international appearances, the creative midfielder was asked if there was one moment that stood out. “50 now when I go through in my head, there’s been so much but one that always stands out is, although it wasn’t a victory, the game against Germany in our World Cup qualifier in the last campaign,” she said. “We were 2-2 in the 90th minute and they scored to make it 3-2 but I thought our per-

formance as a team was absolutely magnificent. Since that, we’ve really stepped up and I think that game was a turning point for our team so that’s one that has stood out for me.” Defeat to Hungary in their final group game meant Ronan’s side finished bottom of Group A, with just one point from three games, which was picked up against pre-tournament favourites Italy. Finishing bottom of the pile set up a seventh place play-off against Group B losers Finland, a tie they won 2-0.

17 March 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 31

Gazette

Cuala representing

Local duo help Dublin get back on camogie track

Club Noticeboard Cuala

cuala’s Hannah O’Dea and Sinead Murphy were part of the Dublin minor camogie team who beat Offaly 1-11 to 1-9 last weekend. It saw them bounce back from an opening day defeat in the competition and gives them a chance of advancing should they pick up results against Clare on March 26 and then against Kilkenny on April 3.

THE adult football section would like

Sheanon on the birth of their daughter

to offer their condolences to Enda

Amy at the weekend. Grandparents

McGowan and family on the passing of

Mikie and Brid are overjoyed. Well done to the seven Cuala play-

their father Aidan McGowan on Saturday. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.

football: cuala struggle against na fianna

ers – Cian O’Callaghan, Oisin Gough,

On Friday night, our second foot-

Darragh O’ Connell, Colm Cronin,

ballers beat Naomh Mhearnog 1-10

David Treacy, Mark Schutte and Sean

to 0-9 in AFL5. On Sunday, our senior

Treacy – on the Dublin senior hurling

footballers were beaten by Na Fianna;

panel that defeated Waterford by 0-19

our third footballers beat Ranelagh

to 0-14 in Walsh Park on Sunday.

Gaels 3-13 to 2-7 in AFL8 and, in AFL10,

The minor B hurlers are now two

our fourths drew with Ballyfermot De

for two having defeated Lucan by 4-9

La Salle 3-6 to 1-12.

to 3-5 with all 26 players getting game

Congratulations to Eoin and Sinead

time.

Shankill OUR juvenile academy, sponsored by

It was a great weekend of club activi-

O’Donnell’s Pharmacy, Shankill, is back

ties. The men’s adult football team lost

in action every Saturday morning.

to Fergal Og, the U-8 boys drew with

Because of the inclement weather,

Ballyfermot De La Salle; the U-9 boys

we are using several venues in order

had a point to spare over St James

to accommodate all of our various age

Gaels. The U-12 girls edged out St Anne’s in

groups so contact your team manager for training details.

a thriller; the U-10 girls lost to Temple-

If you would like your child to join

ogue Synge St and pride of place must

the academy, just come along to any

go to our U-8 girls, who in the beautiful

Saturday or contact us on secretary.

surroundings of Shanganagh Castle,

shankill.dublin@gaa.ie or 086 4010438.

played their first competitive games in

There are no trials, no selection proc-

a blitz with Round Tower, Clondalkin. All the hard work of the last three

esses and no annual subscription. All juvenile and academy team’s fixtures will be available during the week. The Kilmacud Crokes senior footballers have begun the AFL1 season in great shape

Crokes cruise to two wins from two in AFL1

afl division one St Brigid’s 0-8 Kilmacud Crokes 0-14  sport@dublingazette.com

K ILMACUD Crokes made it two wins from two in AFL Division 1 with a fine 0-14 to 0-8 win over St Brigid’s at Russell Park last Sunday and continue their upbeat start to the campaign. They got up and running with Cavan’s Eugene Keating opening the scoring before St Brigid’s responded through a Lorcan McCarthy point and the half continued to be quite

evenly matched as both teams had their purple patches. Crokes, though, went in at the break two points up, 0-6 to 0-4. And they kicked on in the second half and reeled off a number of points, again through the influential Keating. The loss of midfielder Cian Mullins at half time through injury visibly affected St Brigid’s as Crokes dominated the midfield battles in the second half. Brigid’s did have three goal chances, which would have brought them right back into the game but Crokes

were good value for their win and, with the influx of their championship winning Under-21s coming in to strengthen the squad, they look like they will be a team that will be competing at business end of the season. Cuala, however, fell in their second game of the campaign on a 0-22 to 0-11 scoreline to an impressive Na Fianna performance. The Dalkey side did register the first score of the game from Luke Keating but Na Fianna gained control early on, with Conor McHugh proving too hot to handle.

He scored six points from play in the first half en route to 0-10 in total and he also drew numerous scoreable frees which were converted by Jack Caffrey who notched up five points from dead balls. While Cuala’s Conor Mullally was doing his best to orchestrate his side’s play, Na Fianna were getting the upperhand in most of the individual match ups and went into half time leading 0-13 to 0-5. The second half was more of a contest, but Na Fianna maintained their grip and ease to victory.

years is beginning to pay dividends; well done to all concerned.

Foxrock Cabinteely THE Under-10s played their first

colleges’ football and was last won by

scheduled county board match this

UCD in 2006.

Saturday against Cuala in Thomastown Park.

It was a hard fought victory for UCD as they beat a highly fancied

Twenty five girls came out to rep-

UCC team (who had seven Cork ladies

resent FoxCab, making up two teams

senior players on the team) in the

who played two matches each against

semi-final and they beat University

a determined Cuala. As our mentor,

of Limerick (who were going for their

Emma McSweeney put it: “the girls

third title in a row) in the final. Both

couldn’t have played any better and

Niamhs are members of the Dublin

they should be very proud of them-

ladies senior panel (as are club play-

selves”.

ers Sinead Goldrick, Amy Connolly and

It was fantastic to see the girls

Amy Ring) and we hope this will be the

working hard to gain possession

first of many titles that the ladies pick

and then following this up with some

up this year.

great passing sequences and combin-

Well done to club players Sarah

ing together to convert some great

O’Leary and Aisling O’Kelly who played

scores.

for the Dublin U1-4 team in their victo-

Thanks to all the parents for full

ry over Wexford in the Leinster Cham-

attendance and support before, dur-

pionship on Saturday. Aisling turned

ing and after the game. Your assist-

in a terrific performance in the backs

ance adds to the skills development

and Sarah scored a very impressive

of the team and management during

2-1. Dublin play Kildare next week in

training and matches.

the next round of the Leinster cham-

Congratulations to senior team

pionship.

players Niamh Collins and Niamh Ryan

Commiserations to Tarah O’Sullivan,

who both played significant roles in

Afric Whelan and their Colaiste Iosa-

UCD’s victory in the O’Connor Cup

gain team-mates on their defeat in the

over the weekend. The O’Connor Cup

All-Ireland Post Primary Schools Final

is the premier competition in ladies

last Monday.

GazetteSPORT all of your dun laoghaire sports coverage from page 28-31

march 17-23, 2016

Two from two: Kilmacud Crokes continue top start Life after football: Damian Duff searching for to AFL1 campaign, seeing off St Brigid’s challenge P31 new role since retiring P29

Blackrock on a roll The Blackrock College J1 team

Stradbrook club edge out Naas to land the J1 Leinster Metro Division 2 crown, continuing the famous club’s revival in fortunes in recent times

 tadhg peavoy

sport@dublingazette.com

BLACKROCK RFC claimed their second piece of silverware of the season with the second team winning the J1 Leinster Metro Division 2 League final. The title, won last Sunday against Naas on an 18-16 scoreline in front of one of the biggest crowds of the season, ends a drought at that level of competiton dating back to 1984, and also confirms promotion to Division 1 for the 2016-17 season. It marks a massive achievement for a team that, despite commitment from a core group of players and management only a season ago,

struggled to put a team on the park in many fixtures. Despite some late season injuries to senior players - obviously disappointing for those affected - the team, with their intensely loyal sideline support of family, friends and many of the wider senior squad, sealed last weekend’s great win. Their Kiwi manager Clinton Arblaster told GazetteSport of how the team was turned around this season. “This team, about a year ago, was struggling. Once or twice, the coaches had to chuck the gear on and go out onto the field. But the club in general has come a long way. “The senior team have gone up into the 1B

Division; we’ve got some great coaching staff, Emmett Farrell from Leinster rugby is the head coach of the squad; Trevor Hogan, who is an ex-Leinster and Ireland international is the forwards coach. “The facilities have been upgraded with new lights on the pitch and a brand new gym.” The foundations were laid in the pre-season cup, beating Old Belvedere and Barnhall and it set a good base for the season. “We concentrated on trying to create an environment where guys enjoy playing rugby and playing for their mates. “The last game we played to get into the final we played down at Blackrock College against Lansdowne, which was great.

“The team has grown as a bunch of lads enjoying each other’s company and that has translated onto the pitch. “At the end of last season we were barely pulling guys together and we built it up and guys came back in. And now we have a mixture in the squad from 30 to 21-year-olds. “It’s been a massive turnaround from the year before and a sign of the club growing. There’s a lot of positive movement within the club.” To add icing to the cake, Rock’s ladies had already won the Leinster Senior Cup by defeating old rivals Railway Union 10-5 the previous Sunday, making it a cause for double celebrations in Stradbrook.