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INSIDE: Focus Ireland calls on voters to back their
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General Election 2016: The Gazette helps you make an informed decision on your local representatives Pages 4 to 9
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light work for donal as he collects his €1k prize
BLACKROCK man Donal Dunne (left) had a little light work ahead of him when he collected a prize worth €1,000 recently. He was congratulated by Woodie’s DIY’s Gary Fitzpatrick and Mark Lester, who were on hand as Donal was presented with a €1,000 home lighting makeover through a competition held by lighting manufacturer OSRAM and Woodie’s DIY. Over the next few weeks, OSRAM electricians will visit his home to upgrade traditional lighting to indoor and outdoor LED lights, luminaires and smart lighting. Donal said: “I rarely enter competitions so this is one of the biggest prizes I’ve been given. I live with my wife and two children, who will be very happy to not be told to turn off the lights as much now!”
Locals urged not to take vigilante action Gardai assure people they are following lines of enquiry over Shankill assaults
emma nolan
IT HAS been widely reported that Gardai have identified a suspect who they think is responsible for a spate of sexual assaults on females which have occurred in the Shankill area since last
December; however, Gardai would not confirm this to The Gazette. No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing. The incidents have been described locally as attempted attacks with no one being seriously hurt.
Locals attended a public meeting to address the assaults last Thursday, February 11, where many expressed their frustration over a lack of garda visibility. Inspector at Dun Laoghaire and Shankill
Garda Stations James Murphy assured the locals that they were following lines of enquiry, but also warned them against taking vigilante action against any suspect individuals. Full Story on Page 2
2 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 18 February 2016
garda | no arrests have been made in shankill assaults
Gardai increase patrols in Dart station vicinity EMMA NOLAN news@dublingazette.com
Gardai have set up an incident room
It has been widely reported that Gardai have identified a suspect who they think is responsible for a spate of sexual assaults on females which occurred in the Shankill area since December 2015, however Gardai would not confirm this to the Gazette. No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing. The incidents occurred during the hours of darkness from 7 to 10pm. In each case a lone male approached a lone female and an alleged assault took place. An incident room to investigate these incidents has been set up in Shankill Garda Station. The first incident occurred on December 2 and took place close to Shankill Dart Station. The second occurred on January 3, near the entrance of the Holly Park housing estate. Two further assaults were reported on February 9 and 10, on Quinn’s Road and Military Road near Killiney. Meanwhile, two suspicious approaches in the area were also reported on January 20 and February 7. The incidents have been described locally as attempted attacks with no one being seriously hurt. Local councillor and general election hopeful Cormac Devlin (FF) spoke to The Gazette about the incidents. “There is a definite line of enquiry”, he said, “Gardai have increased the patrols and the council and Iarnroid Eireann have undertaken works to ensure that better lighting would be installed and shrubs
cut back in the vicinity of the Dart station in particular. “I’m very hopeful that the individual will be caught because it’s causing a lot of fear, anger and anxiety in the area particularly for women.” Devlin is hoping that the locals will remain vigilant and cooperate with Gardai while the suspect remains at large. Many locals have been discussing the situation on the Facebook community page, Shankill Open Forum where the anger of not feeling safe in their own community is palpable. One women said: “It’s a very sad situation at my age and having a 17 year old daughter to be left so afraid and nervous. As these attacks are happening day and night.” [sic] Local shop, High Tec Spec, have been giving away personal rape alarms to women who walk in these areas frequently. Locals attended a public meeting to address the assaults last Thursday February 11, where
many expressed their frustration over a lack of garda visibility. Inspector James Murphy assured the locals that they were following lines of enquiry but also warned them against taking vigilante action against any suspect individuals. Councillor and election candidate Maria Bailey (FG) told The Gazette that “a lot of children come off that Dart in the late afternoon when it is dark in the winter and parents are concerned. “The Gardai have been very proactive down here and have worked in tandem with the community to hopefully achieve a good outcome for this unprecedented event.” A number of statements have been taken and numerous lines of enquiry are currently being conducted together with CCTV and House to house enquiries. Gardaí are asking any witnesses or persons with information to contact them at Shankill station on 01-6665900 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
New plan is ‘of serious concern’ for the Frascati Centre Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council had granted planning permission for a major re-development of the Frascati Shopping Centre in Blackrock which was expected to commence in the first half of 2016. However, this plan has now been delayed pending a determination of a new planning application (D16A/0065 – Feb’16) that has been lodged with the council which will result in an overall net increase in the gross floor space of 471 sqm. The previous approved plan provided for an extensive expansion of the Frascati Centre to provide for additional new retail shop units, a café and additional car parking spaces. Speaking to The Gazette, Cllr Victor Boyhan (Ind) said that the new plan is “of serious concern”.
18 February 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 3
election | FOOTAGE SHOWS Young males ‘cleaning up the area’
SISTERS
New cafe pops-up in Centre
Candidates posters have been removed emma nolan
A number of election candidates in the Dun Laoghaire area have had their election posters cut down in the run-up to the General Election 2016. Video footage taken by supporters of candidate Cllr Carrie Smyth (Lab) shows three young male teenagers using a ladder to remove her poster from a pole. When asked what they were doing by a passer by who recorded the incident, the youth atop the ladder said: “We are cleaning up the area – it’s all dirty.” Posters belonging to Smyth, Cllr Mary Hanafin (FF), Cllr Ossian Smyth (GP) and Cllr
Maria Bailey (FG) were also reported to have been removed and left at the bottom of the poles in what Carrie Smyth thinks was an attempt to get them fined. Speaking to The Gazette about the situation, Smyth praised the politically charged message behind the youth’s actions but said she would have preferred if they directed their energy more positively. She said: “It’s great to see youngsters with strong political views and I would like to see their energy channelled into a more constructive exercise, like canvassing for the party or parties they claim to support.” Hanafin was not as impressed by the ques-
tionable political defiance of the teens and felt that the removal of the posters was “anti-democratic and sinister”. She told The Gazette: “I have no doubt there is a political motive behind this and it is not just a case of random vandalism. Posters were removed in Dun Laoghaire, and at 2.00 am on Sunday in the Booterstown area, a white rented van removed the posters of all but one candidate.” Cllr Smyth was unphased by the removal of his posters saying: “The people cutting them down are just kids having fun and I’m well capable of putting them back up the next night as I have so few.”
parents provide safety net
Making its official launch on Safer Internet Day 2016, CyberSafeIreland, a new not-for-profit, is rolling out a programme of education to children in 4th to 6th class (aged 9 to 13) providing practical advice on how to embrace the opportunities for learning and enjoyment that technology can deliver, whilst equipping them with the tools to avoid harm. Training sessions are designed to teach children and their parents how to use the internet without engaging in risky behaviour, how to protect themselves by using privacy settings, and how to report abuse. Pictured are two of CyberSafeIreland’s co-founders from Dun Laoghaire, Alex Cooney and Cliona Curley. Cliona Curley, who is a cybercrime expert said: “As a parent I find it deeply worrying that nearly one in five pre-teens have been in contact with a stranger online.”
A new pop-up café is opening in Blackrock at the Dominican Adult Education Centre on Merrion Avenue, to develop greater awareness of the role of Irish Sisters. The Sister’s Café, which will be run by Vocations Ireland, will open its doors on February 25 to help develop awareness amongst women of the role that Irish Sisters play in society and to open up conversations between Sisters from all congregations and Irish women from the ages of 20 to 35 who may be interested in learning more about spirituality. Congregations from eight female religious groups including Medical Missionaries of Mary and Dominicans will be there to meet, greet and share conversation
4 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 18 February 2016
election 2016 | who’s hoping to claim a seat
dublin west 4 sEATS 11 CANDIDATES
dublin rATHDOWN duN LAOGHAIRE 3 sEATS 9 CANDIDATES 4 sEATS 11 CANDIDATES LOST A SEAT
OUTGOING
OUTGOING
Clockwise from top left: Joan Burton (Lab) TD / Tanaiste, Ruth Coppinger (AAA - PBP) TD, Leo Varadkar (FG)TD / Minister, Joe Higgins (SP) TD [Not Running]
Peter Mathews (Ind), Shane Ross (Ind), Alan Shatter (FG), Alex White (Lab)
Richard Boyd Barrett (PBP), Mary Mitchell O’Connor (FG) Sean Barrett (FG), Eamon Gilmore (Lab)
CANDIDATES
CANDIDATES
CANDIDATES
Joan Burton (Lab) TD / Tanaiste Ruth Coppinger (AAA - PBP) TD Leo Varadkar (FG) TD / Minister Jack Chambers (FF) Councillor Paul Donnelly (SF) Councillor David McGuinness (Ind) Councillor Roderic O’Gorman (GP) Councillor TJ Clare (Ind) Dermot Casey (Ind) Jo O’Brien (Renua) Catherine Noone (FG) Senator
Peter Mathews (Ind) TD Shane Ross (Ind) TD Alan Shatter (FG) TD Alex White (Lab) TD Joespha Madigan (FG) Councillor Sorcha Nic Cormaic (SF) Councillor Catherine Martin (GP) Councillor Mary White (FF) Senator Alan Daveron (Renua)
OUTGOING
Maria Bailey (FG) Cllr Richard Boyd Barrett (PBP) TD Mary Mitchell O’Connor (FG) TD Frank Cronin (Renua) Cormac Devlin (FF) Councillor Mary Hanafin (FF) Councillor Carol Hunt (Ind) Shane O’Brien (SF) Carrie Smyth (Lab) Councillor Ossian Smyth (GP) Councillor Raymond Whitehead (DDI) **Ceann Comhairle Sean Barrett (FG) is automatically re-elected
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| election 2016
duBLIN MID-WEST 4 sEATS 16 CANDIDATES OUTGOING
Frances Fitzgerald (FG) TD / Minister, Derek Keating (FG) TD, Joanna Tuffy (Lab) TD, Robert Dowds (Lab) [not running] TD
CANDIDATES Frances Fitzgerald (FG) TD / Minister Derek Keating (FG) TD Joanna Tuffy (Lab) TD Eoin O Broin (SF) Councillor Gino Kenny (PBP) Councillor Lorraine Hennessy (WP) Councillor Clare Leonard (Ind) Councillor Francis Timmons (Ind) Councillor Paul Gogarty (Ind) Councillor Patrick Akpoveta (Ind) Anne-Marie McNally (SD) John Curran (FF) Christopher Healy (DDI) Haroon Khan (Ind) Tom Kivlehan (GP) Ronan Fafferty (GP)
duBLIN fingal 5 sEATS 14 CANDIDATES OUTGOING
GAINED A SEAT
Clare Daly (Ind), James Reilly (FG), Alan Farrell (FG), Brendan Ryan (Labour)
CANDIDATES Clare Daly (Ind) TD Barry Martin (PBP) Councillor Joe O’Brien (GP) Alan Farrell (FG) TD Louise O’Reilly (SF) Lorraine Clifford Lee (FF) Terry Kelleher (AAA-PBP) Darragh O’Brien (FF) Seantor Roslyn Fuller (Ind) James Reilly (FG) TD Brendan Ryan (Lab) TD Enda Ryan (United Left) Gerry Molly (Renua) Councillor Tony Murphy (Ind) Councillor Marcus De Brun (Ind) Feargal O’Connell (Ind)
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6 dun laoghaire Gazette 18 February 2016
election 2016 | your guide to who’s hoping to claim a hotly contested
Hopefuls focusing on key personal, community issues
Many of Dun Laoghaire’s General Election candidates have a keen interest in the area’s natural treasures and open spaces (such as The People’s Park, above), with candidates sharing an interest in developing the county for the future, while also fostering an appreciation of Dun Laoghaire’s diverse natural assets
frank cronin (Ren) FRANK Cronin, a chartered accountant from Cork, is contesting as a Renua candidate for the Dun Laoghaire constituency for the first time. The ex-Newstalk and Sunday Tribune chief is currently head of IPC Digital Media and a member of the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland board. RICHARD BOYD BARRETT (PBP) RICHARD Boyd Barrett is the People Before Profit Alliance TD for Dun Laoghaire, since being elected in 2011. A member of the Oireachtas Finance committee and the Oireachtas Public Oversight and Petitions committee, the Dun Laoghaire native has a long record of campaigning for improved local services, social housing, youth and community amenities, workers’ rights and jobs. Deputy Barrett is a member of the Right2Water Campaign and has organised national protests and demonstrations against war, NAMA and
bank bail-outs and for jobs and public services. He is chair of the Save Our Seafront committee and the Irish Anti-War Movement. He has also campaigned against wars in Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan and the use of Shannon Airport by the US military. CARRIE SMYTH (Lab) CARRIE Smy th has lived her whole life in the Dalkey/Killiney/Shankill areas and is contesting in this General Election, having been a Labour councillor for the last 12 years for Ballybrack, Johnstown, Killiney, Loughlinstown, Shankill and parts of Bray, Cabinteely and Glenageary. She was elected An Cathaoirleach of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown in 2013 and served on many committees, including the Dun Laoghaire and Dublin Education Training Board, Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Social Development and Inclusion committee and the Loughlinstown, Shankill and Ballybrack Local Policing Forum.
Her late father, Frank Smyth, was also a councillor in the constituency. She has stated that she has sought to ensure more and better local amenities throughout the county, such as playgrounds and play facilities for sports groups and improved transport arrangements for all users. mary hanafin (FF) MARY Hanafin was first elected as a Fianna Fail TD for Dun Laoghaire in the 1997 general election and was promoted to Minister of State at the Departments of Health and Children, Justice, Equality and Law Reform, and Education and Science, with special responsibility for Children in 2000. The Thurles-born teacher taught Irish and History at Dominican College, Sion Hill in Blackrock and was reelected in May 2002. She was then promoted to Government Chief Whip and Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach (with responsibility for the Information Society) and as Minister
of State at the Department of Defence. In September 2004, she was appointed Minister for Education and Science and was re-elected again in the 2007 general election before serving as Minister for Social and Family Affairs in 2008. In 2010 she was appointed as Minister for Tourism and Sport and Culture. In 2011, she was appointed deputy leader of Fianna Fail and served as Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, but subsequently lost her Dail seat to Richard Boyd Barrett (PBP) in the 2011 general election. Cllr Hanafin contested in the May 2014 local elections against the wishes of Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and has been a councillor for the Blackrock area since then. Maria bailey (FG) MARIA Bailey has represented the Killiney/ Ballybrack ward since being elected in 2004. The Fine Gael councillor was selected to run with Deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor in the upcom-
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18 February 2016 dun laoghaire Gazette 7
seat in the dun laoghaire constituency, where it’s all to play for ing General Election. Her father, John Bailey, is also a councillor in the area and she is the former chair of the Transportation Strategic Policy committee and County Development Board on Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. She is also a former member of Sallynoggin Senior College board. Having bought her home at the height of the property bubble, Cllr Bailey advocates awareness surrounding the difficulties faced by families in similar situations. The mother of two from Killiney went to school in Our Lady of Good Counsel NS Johnstown and then attended Sion Hill and St Joseph’s of Cluny. cormac devlin (FF) CORMAC Devlin was first elected to Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council in 2004 and re-elected in 2009 and 2014. He is currently chair-
man of the Dun Laoghaire Area Committee and chairman of the Environment, Climate Change and Energy Strategic Policy committee. Cllr Devlin is is also Fianna Fail’s group deputy leader and whip on for the council, as well as vice-chairman of the Southside Partnership. He has been a member of the corporate policy group since 2014. He is a member of Sallynoggin College of Further Education, the Social Housing Strategic Policy committee, and the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Joint Policing committee. Cllr Devlin lives with his wife and three young children in Dun Laoghaire. He attended Presentation Brothers College in Glasthule and the Institute of Public Administration at UCD. carol hunt (Ind) CAROL Hunt is a journalist who is contesting
for the general election for the first time as an Independent candidate. She has been a regular columnist for The Sunday Independent for the last ten years on topics ranging from debt and mental health to equality and social justice. She also writes for The Irish Independent and Herald and is a regular panellist on radio and TV. Hunt grew up on Newtown Park Avenue in Blackrock and attended St Mary’s, Haddington Road and Newpark Comprehensive schools. She attended Trinity College as a mature student in 2003 with the Wray prize for political philosophy, and won a TCD studentship to study an integrated masters/PhD in political philosophy. The mother of two’s major concerns include repealing the 8th Amendment, minimising social inequalities and protecting lone parents, the eld-
erly, disabled and those in need of health services. mary mitchell o’connor (FG) DEPUTY Mary Mitchell O’Connor is a Fine Gael TD for Dun Laoghaire, elected in 2011. She had previously served on Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, having been elected in 2004 and again in 2009 as part of the Progressive Democrats. Deputy Mitchell O’Connor serves on the committee on Health and Children, and on Children and Youth Affairs. She is also a member of the internal Fine Gael Education committee and Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation committee. In office, she has worked on the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill 2015, advocated for healthy eating and decreasing obesity, and helped raise the age for breast checks to 69.
The General Election candidates have also expressed strong views on nurturing Dun Laoghaire’s transport links, with key systems – such as Dart services, above – another local concern to the fore in some of their campaigns
She is a qualified teacher and before her election was principal of the Harold School Glasthule. ossian smyth (GP) OSSIAN Smyth was elected as a Green Party councillor for Dun Laoghaire in 2014. He is a software developer by trade, having previously worked for Microsoft.
He currently works as a technical project manager in Saint Vincent’s Hospital and is volunteer mentor at a local CoderDojo, teaching young people computer programming and other computer skills. His endeavours as a councillor include working to change the local building insulation and ventila-tion rules to Pas-
sive House standard for the 25,000 homes planned to be built in Dun Laoghaire in the next six years. He is also an unpaid adviser to the European Parliament Green Energy Experts group, Green Party spokesperson for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, and a member of the Dublin Cycling campaign.
8 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 18 February 2016
election 2016 | who’s hoping to claim a seat in the city
dublin nortH WEST dublin CENTRAL dublin bay north 3 sEATS 11 CANDIDATES 3 sEATS 15 CANDIDATES 5 sEATS 21 CANDIDATES OUTGOING
LOST A SEAT
OUTGOING
OUTGOING
GAINED A SEAT
From top left: Finian McGrath (Ind), Aodhan O’Riordan (Lab), Tommy Broughan (Ind), Richard Bruton (FG)
From top left: Dessie Ellis (SF), John Lyons (Lab), Roisin Shorthall (SD)
CANDIDATES
Joe Costello (Lab), Paschal Donohoe (FG), Mary Lou McDonald (SF), Maureen O’Sullivan (Ind)
CANDIDATES
Cathleen Carney Boud (SF) Dessie Ellis (SF) Andrew Keegan (AAA -PBPA) John Lyons (Lab) Paul McAuliffe (FF) Noel Rock (FG) Roisin Shortall (SD) Caroline Conroy (GP) Jimmy Dignam (Ind) Cormac McKay (Direct Democracy Ireland) Bernie Hughes (Ind)
Christy Burke (Ind) Joe Costello (Lab) Paschal Donohoe (FG) Mary Fitzpatrick (FF) Gary Gannon (SD) Mary Lou McDonald (SF) Maureen O’Sullivan (Ind) Cieran Perry (Ind) Eilis Ryan (Ind) Diana O’Dwyer (AAA - PBPA) Ian Noel Smyth (GP) Cormac McKay (Direct Democracy Ireland) William DJ Gorman (Ind) Kerry Guinan (Ind) Jacqui Gilbourne (Renua)
www.
CANDIDATES
Jimmy Guerin (Ind) Sean Haughey (FF) Deirdre Heney (FF) John Lyons (AAA - PBPA) Michael McDonncha (SF) Finian McGrath (Ind) Denise Mitchell (SF) Naoise O Muiri (FG) Aodhain O’Riordan (Lab) Averil Power (Ind) Tommy Broughan (Ind) Richard Bruton (FG) Stephanie Regan (FG0 Cian O’Callaghan (Social Democrats) Michael O’Brien (AAA - PBPA) Donna Cooney (GP) Paul Clarke (Ind) Tom D’Arcy (Direct Democracy Ireland) Damien O’Neill (Ind) Proinsias O Conarain (Ind) Terence Flanagan (Renua)
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18 February 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 9
we look at who will get your vote | election 2016
dublin SOUTHCENTRAL 4 sEATS 13 CANDIDATES
dublin BAY SOUTH
OUTGOING
OUTGOING
4 sEATS 14 CANDIDATES
GAINED A SEAT
Lucinda Creighton (Renua), Kevin Humphreys (Lab), Eoghan Murphy (FG) Catherine Byrne (FG), Eric Byrne (Lab), Joan Collins (Ind), Aenghus O’Snodaigh (SF)
CANDIDATES Catherine Ardagh (FF) Catherine Byrne (FG) Eric Byrne (Lab) Joan Collins (Ind) Maire Devine (SF) Paul Hand (Ind) Aenghus O’Snodaigh (SF) Brid Smith (AAA - PBPA) Liam Coyne (Social Democrats) Oisin O hAlmhain (GP) Richard Murray (Ind) Neville Brady (Ind) Michael Gargan (Renua)
CANDIDATES Chris Andrews (SF) Lucinda Creighton (Renua) Kevin Humphreys (Lab) Eoghan Murphy (FG) Jim O’Callaghan (FF) Kate O’Connell (FG) Eamon Ryan (GP) Mannix Flynn (Ind) Glenna Lynch (Social Democrats) Annette Mooney (AAA PBPA) William DJ Gorman (Ind) Alan MacStiofain (Ind) John Keigher (Ind) Eoin Tierney (Ind)
10 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 18 February 2016
Gazettegallery
| canvassing across Dublin in run up to election
Darragh O’Brien (FF) braves the rain Off and running: Senator Eamonn Coghlan and Senator Catherine Noone
Cormac Devlin (FF) shares a joke with a constituent
Cllr Josepha Madigan (FG) with YMCA
Leo Varadkar (FG) goes under
Members of Independent Socialists Clare Daly and
Hockey Club players at Wesley College
cover
Barry Martin’s team were tickled pink to help out
Enda Kenny (FG) gets a lesson
Liam Coyne of the Social Democrats with his team
Purple rain: Anne-Marie McNally (Social Democrat)
Labour’s Cllr Carrie Smyth is stopped in her tracks
Labour’s Alex White shows his sweet
at Dun Laoghaire DART station
side
Alan Shatter (FG) talks to a young constituent
18 February 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 11
12 dun laoghaire Gazette 18 February 2016
Gazettegallery
| special preview screening of Zoolander 2 at
Leia Holmes and Charlene Reilly
Lyn Johnson and Catherine White
Norman Pratt and Jess Corcoran
They’re so hot right now
Joshua Edwards, Taylor Fisher, Brianna Creighton and Jenny Byrne. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
18 February 2016 dun laoghaire Gazette 13
the Savoy Cinema attracts a very fashionable audience
Timmi and Graham O’Hare
Tatianna Fortune Woods and Emily Jade Elliott
Lisa McLoughlin and Alexandra Ryan
Lauren Lapwood and Stephanie O’Riordan
Louise Byrne and Suzy Blunden
Gazette
14 Gazette 18 February 2016
dublinlife
FEATURE
A day in the life: Sophie Jo Wasson just finished touring the Poor Little Boy With No Arm
‘We wanted to do something dynamic’
Ian Begley
Sophie Jo Wasson is a young Irish actress who recently finished up with the touring production of The Poor Little Boy With No Arms, which she devised and co-wrote. T his week, T he Gazette caught up with Sophie to see what a day in her life was like while preparing for this unique and bizarre dark comedy.
“We did four weeks of rehearsals, which would be pretty much standard for every show. While touring we basically arrived at each venue a couple of hours before the play began to do checks until the show started at 8pm. “It all depends what time I get up at in the morning. Many actors have meetings, auditions and are maybe prepping for another show so their day-to-day
schedule would change a lot. “I work part-time in a bakery and if I have a show on the night I would probably get up around nine. “Every actor seems to have different ways of making things work for them. “The way in which this play was thought up was through us wanting to make something really entertaining and also something a little
spooky. “We thought that a lot of the theatre shows that we’ve seen were a little diluted and safe. We wanted to do something a little dynamic and challenging for an audience. “The Poor Little Boy With No Arms is a play on the common Irish empathy that many people have towards those who have something wrong with them. “He’s the name of one of the characters, but he certainly doesn’t sum it up the play – there’s a lot more to it. The play constantly changes between two and six characters. I play a woman and a couple of other characters, including a donkey.” Asking if it is hard to constantly change characters, Sophie said: “No, it’s the best craic ever and it’s so much fun. As an actor it’s such a gift to be able to just get on stage and play multiple roles and have a bit of craic creating them and making them different. “It’s fun for the audience as well because of the whole nature of the play. “ We e ve n c h a n g e characters in front of them, but eventually they just accept it and accept that there are more than six characters on stage.” Asked how she unwinds after a night of giving it socks on stage, Sophie said “Pints”. “It’s such a stereotype for actors to enjoy having a few drinks after a show, but when you come off stage you’re just filled with adrenaline. “It’s also just nice to sit down with your fellow actors and debrief and have a bit of a laugh.”
Sophie Jo Wasson is a young Irish actress
18 February 2016 Gazette 15
A little lolly goes a long way to help raise funds for charity an Annual Lollipop Day in aid of the Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF), is taking place on February 26 and 27 to help raise vital funds for oesophageal cancer. Lollipop Day involves thousands of people selling lollipops (€2) nationwide. Without the generosity and support from volunteers, the OCF would not be able to provide the vital role it does in terms of awareness, research and better outcomes for patients and their families in Ireland. Businesses, companies and schools can support the OCF by holding Lollipop Day events and/or by selling lollipops on their premises. Noelle Ryan, OCF chairperson said: “We are very fortunate to have an ever increasing number of dedicated volunteers, all of whom make Lollipop Day possible and a success every
year, but we still need more volunteers.” Visit lollipopday.ie for more information.
stamps issued to mark centenary of the Easter Rising A set of 16 stamps marking the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising has been issued by An Post. Huge national and international demand is expected for the “19162016 Eighth Definitive Stamp Series” commemorating the key founding event of the modern Irish state. The stamps are grouped into four categories: Leaders and Icons; Participants; Easter Week and The Aftermath. Although each image represents an individual subject, the themes also reflect a chronological progression from the lead-up to the Rising through to its aftermath. The stamps have been
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designed as a narrative rather than as 16 individual images. An Post’s Anna McHugh said: “These will be the ‘everyday’ stamps, available for the rest of this year at all post offices and in special souvenir packs and booklets too at www.irishstamps. ie.”
promoting sustainable modes of transport The Green Schools Big Travel Challenge 2016 has begun and schools across the country are already switching their travel modes. An Taisce has been working on the national Green-Schools Travel programme, which focuses on promoting sustainable travel on the school run, since September 2008. The ultimate aim of the Green Schools Travel programme is to encourage students, parents and teachers to walk, cycle, scoot, Park ‘n’ Stride, use public transport or car pool. During February, the Green Schools pro gramme is calling on over 1,500 eligible schools to challenge students, teachers and parents to try walking, cycling, scooting, carpooling, or taking public transport to school. “What change can you achieve in two weeks?” is the question posed. Schools are asked to concentrate on one sustainable transport mode for two weeks this month to see if they can achieve real, lasting change in the travel behaviour of their staff and students.
Following a judging process one school will be awarded the title “Ireland’s Travel School of the Year” with schools also awarded in categories related to the mode they chose to promote. Visit greenschoolsireland.org
Trocaire’s 43rd Lenten campaign gets underway Last Wednesday, February 10, marked the start of the Lenten Campaign when almost one million Trocaire boxes were delivered across the country. Last year, thanks to support from people in Ireland, Trocaire supported over 2.4 million people across Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East. This included 45,000 poor families who got access to local resources, including land and water. Trocaire protected over 700 human rights defenders who were abused and attacked in Guatemala and over 6,000 women, who survived abuse, got healthcare, counselling and legal aid to get justice. This year is Trocaire’s 43rd Lenten campaign. Tr o c a i r e b oxe s a r e available from parishes throughout Dublin, through trocaire.org or by phoning 1850 408 408. As well as donating through the Trocaire box and trocaire.org, people can download a free Trocaire box app for their mobile phones or tablets. The app is available from the Apple App Store or Google Playstore.
Lollipop Day will take place on February 26 and 27
Gazette
DIARY
16 Gazette 18 February 2016
18 February 2016 Gazette 17
OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week
Bord Gais Energy Theatre: playful mixture of madness and intrigue
A banging musical treat Emma Nolan
One of the world’s favourite musicals — Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is running at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre from this month until March 13. The film, made from Ian Fleming’s classic story, has been adapted for the stage by Jeremy Sams, based on the
MGM Motion Picture licensed script adapted by Ray Roderick which has left audiences flying high with its playful mixture of madness and intrigue. The star-studded cast consists of comedian Jason Manford (The Producers, Sweeney Todd) as Caractacus Potts, Michelle Collins (Coronation Street,
EastEnders,) as Baroness Bomburst, Phill Jupitus (The Producers, Hairspray) as Lord Scrumptious/Baron Bomburst and Martin Kemp (Spandau Ballet, EastEnders and The Krays) as The Childcatcher. The show also features Amy Griffiths (Ever y man, Stephen Wa r d , T h e P a j a m a
Game) as Truly Scrumptious and Andy Hockley (The Phantom Of The Opera) as Grandpa Potts. T he lovable but whacky inventor, Potts, along with his two children and the gorgeous Truly Scrumptious, try to outwit the bombastic Baron Bomburst who has decreed that all children should be banished from his kingdom? What happens when the children are caught and imprisoned with the other youngsters by the evil Child Catcher? Will it all end happilyever-after? Having broken all box office records in the West End, this funfilled production from the team that brought you Fiddler on the Roof and The King and I
promises laughs and magic galore – and Chitty herself! The production has music and ly rics by Richard M Sherman and Robert B Sherman, who were also responsible for Mary Poppins, The Slipper and the Rose, The Aristocats and The Jungle Book. The Sherman Brothers have won two Academy Awards with a further nine nominations, two Grammy Awards and they have received 21 gold and platinum albums. This new production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is directed by West Yorkshire Playhouse artistic director James Brining, with new choreography by Stephen Mear. There is a live orchestra with musical super-
vision by Stephen Ridley. Set and costume design is by Simon Higlett, lighting design is by Tim Mitchell, sound design is by Ben Harrison and video design is by Simon Wainwright. The sensational sets and special effects and, of course, the memorable score by the Sherman Brothers, which includes such standards as Truly Scrumptious, Toot Sweets, Hushabye Mountain and the Oscar-nominated title song Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Prices range from €20 to €60 for the show at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre at Grand Canal Square, Docklands, Dublin 2. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie
Jason Manford (centre) as Caractacus Potts and the cast of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will be in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre until March 13
Gazette
18 Gazette 18 February 2016
Pets 50 cent IS A VOCAL LITTLE HUSKY PUPPY
The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is 50 Cent, a male Husky Cross, aged six months. He came to Dogs Trust with his mom, sisters and brothers, who have all found homes — so now it’s his turn. 50 Cent is a very playful and clever little boy with loads of energy and as a typical Husky can get a little bit vocal sometimes. He will grow to be a very big boy, so would benefit from starting training classes while young. These would be a great and fun way for his new family to get to know him better. If you’re interested in this amazing boy please contact Dogs Trust on 01-879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.
18 February 2016 Gazette 19
BITESIZEDNEWS
Gazette
FOOD&DRINK
easy recipes: CHEF LIAM BOLAND MAKES SOME TASTY DISHES
Try some good food made simple AUDREY KANE
IRELAND’S fastest growing and most popular food websites BiaMaith was established in December 2014 by chef Liam Boland.
T he site has quickly become a go-to resource for families and foodies who want to make amazing food on a budget. Liam’s simple, healthy and delicious recipes are quick and easy to follow
and can turn anyone into a confident and accomplished home cook. BiaMaith was born after Liam started posting recipes on Facebook for his friends, who were amazed that he
could cook such fantastic food on such a tight budget. They quickly started being shared and in just a few months, Liam’s online following had grown to over 20k likes and hundreds of thou-
sands of views. In December 2015, he released his debut cookbook, Good Food Made Simple, which was one of the bestselling cook books in Ireland over the festive period. Check out www.biamaith.ie.
This butter chicken curry will get your tastebuds flowing Simple to make yet one of the nicest curries you will ever eat. One all the family can enjoy. Ingredients THE MARINADE Chicken Fillets - 4 Low-Fat Natural Yogurt - 7 tbsp Fresh Ginger - 1 inch piece finely chopped Garlic Cloves 4 finely chopped Garam Masala - 3 tsp Ground Clove - 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin - 2 tsp
• • •
Butter Chicken (murgh makhani)
• • •
•
THE SAUCE Green Cardamom - 4 Sugar - 2 tsp/salt - 1 tsp Vegetable Oil - 3 tbsp Coconut Milk - 1 tin Tomato Passata - 250g Ground Almownds 100g Chicken Stock Cube Fresh Coriander
• • • • • • • •
Getting Ready... You will need - 1 wok or medium pot, 1 wooden spoon, 1 medium
tupperware container or bowl, 1 sharp knife, 1 raw meat chopping board and 1 ladle. METHOD Cut the chicken into 2.5cm cubes. Mix all the marinade ingredients, including the chicken, in the tupperware container. Coat all the chicken. Cover with the lid and leave in the fridge for 4 hours . Heat the oil in the wok, pan or
• • • •
pot then add the chicken and all the marinade. Cook for about 5 minutes giving it a little stir every now and then. Add the tomato passata, coconut milk, green cardamom pods, salt and sugar then stir in, bring to the boil then turn the heat right down and let it simmer, uncovered for 20 - 25 minutes. Add the stock cube, ground almonds and half the chopped coriander, stir well.
•
•
20 Gazette 18 February 2016
18 February 2016 Gazette 21
Gazette
STYLE
Let’s get blog to fashion basics sarah foster
THERE are so many fashion blogs to follow, it’s not always easy to find one that suits your style. Here are some worth a look ...
www.retro-flame. com Erika Fox is a Kerry girl currently living in New York City. She has worked in fashion PR, with Whitney Port at NYFW, and recently with oliviapalermo.com. This blog is a compact diary of her outfits, travel, work & inspirations. www.pennyandpolaroids.com This visual journal is Nuala Gorham’s creative outlet to express her inspirations and love of Whether following some of the main trends and styles, or singular fashions – such as pieces from Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 2016 collection, above – there are lots of fresh styles to transition into away from the gloomy winter wear we’ve all been used to for too many months now
Let’s transition to fresher fashions sarah foster
FEBRUARY is a time of transition for fashionistas. We are so over winter, and ready to welcome the spring! Way back in September 2015, the spring/summer ’16 fashion trends graced the catwalks in Paris, New York, Milan and London. The weather might still be freezing, but that’s even more reason to introduce new colours, shapes and patterns to kick-start the spring with these top trends ... Strength: Mixing tailoring with sportswear for kick-ass combinations, military jackets give a strong sculpted silhouette.
Team with metallic safety buckle belts to give waist definition. Counterbalance the masculinity of blazers and bomber jackets with feminine blousons and dresses. The colour pallet for this trend is camouflage and jungle green, offset by flashes of tangerine and hot pink (as seen at Versace, Moschino, Balmain and Louis Vuitton). This trend has been spotted on Gigi Hadid, Heidi Klum and Kendal Jenner. Tropical : This trend is all about good-time-girl vibes. Acid Brights are key to this trend; a magenta pink pleated dress can be layered with warmer items – tone it down with neutral colours.
As seen at Stella McCartney, Oscar de la Renta and Christopher Kane; find neon brights at any of your High Street favourites this season. Gym to street: For women living in the real world who like to get things done, perfect the art of smart casual with sleek panelled leggings, metallic gym bags and, of course, the crop top. Match runners with a tennis skirt and a jersey sweater for an urban look. As seen at Stella McCartney, Chanel, Lacoste and Chloe, this look is worn by Gigi Hadid, Karlie Kloss and Vanessa Hudgens. Victoriana: A continuation of the hit winter trend, key features include high collars, full sleeves,
textures and floor-sweeping skirts. Lighter fabrics and delicate pastel colours will be seen in this trend for the new season. Generous pussy bows in a contrasting colour add flare to the high-collared white shirts. Designer collections include Alexander McQueen and Chloe. 70s Sensation: Designers can’t get enough of this trend and it’s here to stay for the spring. Key pieces are high waists, suede coords, light denim and floral prints. Pair with shaggy fur in pastel hues for a bohemian touch. Popular with Sienna Miller, Alexa Chung and Olivia Palermo; as seen at Versace, Burberry and Coach.
fashion. She has been part of features for many leading publications in the industry. Find style inspiration from her daily edited “shop the style list feature”, which includes the most coveted styles of the season.
www.heartsheelsandhandbags. blogspot.ie Rosie Connolly is a 24-year-old living and working in Dublin. Her first break into fashion came through winning a reality competition on TV3’s Ireland AM. Five years on, and she has worked on a range of media, magazine and TV projects. Rosie had her first baby, Harry, in 2015. Since then, she adds posts for mums and mums-to-be.
www.thunderandthreads. com Leanne Woodfull is a 22-year-old Dublinbased student, freelance writer and sometimestylist. She studies visual culture at NCAD. Her style is a pick and mix of high end, high street and independent brands which she showcases on her blog and social site. www.stylemecurvy. net Louise O’Reilly is an international plus-size model. Style Me Curvy is all about fashion diversity and positive body image. Having travelled the world, Louise has developed a fashion-forward style and shares her looks with her readers.
Gazette
22 Gazette 18 February 2016
OUT&ABOUT
TRAVEL
iceland: direct flights now going for €79 each way
A mesmerising country waiting to be explored ian begley
There could not be a better time for Irish people travelling to Iceland as direct flights to Reykjavik are now going for as little as €79 each way. In June, 2015, Icelandic airline WOW started providing lost-cost direct flights from Dublin to Reykjavik, saving hundreds of euros for those wishing to explore the vast and beautiful country. Known as the “Land of Fire and Ice”, there are not many places in the world which have such contrasting dramatic landscapes as Iceland. This truly amazing destination is home to the fantastic city of Reykjavik, as well as numerous natural wonders and
stunning scenery. From the Blue Lagoon to spouting geysers, glaciers and fjords, it is a mesmerizing country just waiting to be explored. Iceland is one of few places in the world where it is possible to see the amazing Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights - a natural light phenomenon.
Unusual The unusual and versatile landscape of Iceland with its black volcanic beaches, waterfalls, bird cliffs, volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs and more, will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. One of the most must do activities in Iceland is to explore the inside of a real volcano. This tour will let you travel down
inside the Prihnjukagigur volcano through an opening just wide enough for the window cleaner’s pulley lift you will be on to get in and out of. The Inside the Volcano Iceland day tour from €256pp is a great mix of nature, history and adventure, featuring a hike across the moonscape of the ragged lava field, and great views across Reykjavik. From €59pp you can take a dip in the world’s favourite volcanic spa, the Blue Lagoon, and soak all your stresses away. The Blue Lagoon water contains a unique cocktail of natural mineral ingredients which help you relax and unwind while the Blue Lagoon white silica mud gently cleanses and exfoliates
your skin. For €146, you can visit a real-life glacier and experience raw nature in a winter wonderland of ice sculptures, ridges and deep crevasses. You’ll take off eastwards out of Reykjavik where you’ll see the unforgettable Eyjafjallajokull glacier after about two hours on the road. You may remember that name because of the 2010 eruption which shut down air travel in all of Europe. To make the most out of your trip to Iceland, the Northern Lights tour is without a doubt a must-do. This tour, from €49pp will take you away from the city lights so that you can observe this astonishing atmospheric effect
Some of the stunning scenery in Iceland (above top) the Blue Lagoon where you can soak all your stresses away, and the picturesque city of Reykjavik (above)
without distraction. The ghostly light shadows of high energy solar rays as they pound the upper atmosphere sound pretty scary; but from down here they look like peace, happiness, won-
der and wellbeing rolled into one. Visit wowair.ie for more information on your lowcost trip to Iceland. Irish travel companies Travel Department and Click and Go are also
providing holiday package deals to Iceland in some of the country’s top hotels. For more information, visit www.traveldepartment.ie or www.clickandgo.ie.
First luxury sleeper train to take to the tracks in August 2016 ian begley
Ireland’s first luxury sleeper train will take to the tracks in August 2016, and already there has been a lot of interest in the 2, 4 and 6 night itineraries from Dublin through the Republic and Northern Ireland. The first images of Belmond Grand Hibernian’s carriages have now been released as the transformation into 20 luxury ensuite cabins, two dining cars and an observation car gets under way in Belfast, Northern Ireland. A team of 40 multi-skilled craftsmen at specialist outfitters Mivan Marine Ltd, w i l l u n d e r t a ke 35 , 0 0 0 hours of work at the worldclass production facility in
County Antrim preparing the train for its inaugural journey from Dublin on August 9, 2016. Belmond has a legacy of operating some of the world’s most famous trains including the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and Belmond Royal Scotsman; building the company’s seventh luxury train to exacting standards requires cutting edge technology mixed with traditional skills. “We chose to work with Mivan not only for their extensive experience but they have also shared our passion and vision for Belmond Grand Hibernian from the outset - it is very important to Belmond that we work with local experts and craftsman to create a
truly authentic train that reflects the spirit of the countries through which it will travel,” said Gary Franklin, managing director of Belmond Trains and Cruises. Belmond purchased the 10 carriages and locomotive from Irish Rail earlier this year and began transformation of the mark three carriages into Ireland’s first luxury sleeper train. The work started with the mechanical engineering and painting of the exterior midnight blue and silver livery at Brodie’s in Kilmarnock, Scotland. The carriages have been carefully transported back across the Irish Sea for this next stage in development. The interior design of the
10 carriages, by James Park Associates, reflects Dublin’s Georgian Architecture with inspiration taken from the flora and fauna of Irish landscape. All interior furnishings are supplied by local businesses including hand-
crafted stone counters in the observation car from a Dublin based company and wool blended carpets from Ulster. The designs all feature Belmond Grand Hibernian’s Celtic knot weaved throughout in colours
matching the tartan of the counties after which the carriages are named including sleeper car Waterford and dining car Sligo. For more information or to make a reservation visit Belmond.com/grandhibernian.
18 February 2016 Gazette 23
Gazette
24 Gazette 18 February 2016
OUT&ABOUT
CINEMA
ReelReviews
TRIPLE 9
An impossible heist (Cert 16, 116 mins) Triple 9 is the story of a group of criminals and corrupt cops, blackmailed by the Russian mafia, who try to pull off a dangerous heist so they can escape. While half of them try to take down a rookie cop in a 999, police code for “officer down”, to keep the rest of the force busy, the other half will steal the loot. Opens this weekend February 19.
GOOSEBUMPS Fun horror romp
(Cert PG, 103 mins) A teenager teams up with the daughter of young adult horror author R L Stine after the writer’s imaginary demons are set free on the town of Madison, Delaware. Goosebumps boasts more than enough of its spooky source material’s kid-friendly charm to make up for some slightly scattershot humor and a hurried pace.
DEADPOOL
Unconventional anti-hero (Cert R, 108mins) Deadpool is a 2016 American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name. A former special forces operative turned mercenary is subjected to a rogue experiment that leaves him with accelerated healing powers, adopting the alter ego, Deadpool. Starring Ryan Reynolds.
Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell, Penelope Cruz and Kristin Wiig in the all-star line-up for Zoolander 2
ZOOLANDER 2: DEREK AND HANSEL STRUT THEIR STUFF ONCE MORE
The beautiful people are back AUDREY KANE
Ben Stiller returns both in front of and behind the camera for Zoolander 2, a comedy that finds the beloved model Derek Zoolander (Stiller) and his rival-turnedpartner Hansel (Owen Wilson) facing a threat to their continued success. Thrust back into the spotlight after living in seclusion for years, they are invited to a major fashion event in Rome. The estranged friends are surprised to see how much the business has changed. Even more shocking is their encounter with Valentina Valencia, a special agent who needs their help. Someone is killing famous pop stars, and it’s up to Derek and
Hansel to help save the world’s most beautiful people from a similar fate. Just before the celebrity dies, he takes a selfie, picks a good Instagram filter, and posts it on the internet. His face is scrunched in a familiar expression – Zoolander’s trademark, Blue Steel. Zoolander comes out of self-imposed exile. Now a widower, his son taken away from him – he resides in a cabin on a blizzardswept mountainside in Northern New Jersey. Hansel is needed too, and he dwells in the vast desert wasteland of the Uncharted Malibu Territories, a falconer in an impossibly pretzeled yoga pose atop a sand dune, his orgy of lovers
in a nearby tent home. He wears a golden mask over his cheek to hide a half-inch scar, which he considers a tragic disfigurement, because he’s a superficial twit. I really wanted to enjoy this movie as much as the first one but unfortunately Zoolander 2 has more celebrity cameos than laughs. Amidst subplots about Hansel’s paternity issues and Zoolander’s reunion with his longlost son, Derek junior (Cyrus Arnold), a chubby, smart boy holed up in a Roman orphanage who despises his father, Derek senior. In the first, and much funnier original Zoolander, we got a delightfully throwaway cameo from the late David Bowie;
now we suffer from umpteen famous faces eager to be in on the joke. Benedict Cumberbatch and Justin Bieber among them. Whilst the first film had a clear focus, Derek being brainwashed to kill the Malaysian Prime Minister, everything in the sequel is all over the place. At some points they’re looking for the assassins, sometimes they’re just trying to do fashion, sometimes they want to find Derek’s son, and all sorts of other bizarre stuff that made this a hugely messy film that fails to keep the audience engaged. So the outdated models are dispatched to Rome, where Alexanya Atoz (K risten Wiig, unrecognisable) rules the fashion world as a
Donatella Versace-like fashion empress whose pretentious diction is so comically clotted as to be unintelligible. Her latest protege, Don Atari (Kyle Mooney), is an anti-fashion hipster and sour little twerp whose idea of a fashion-show locale is a garbage dump. Another protege is a bald transgender supermodel (Benedict Cumberbatch) known as All. Alexanya’s only other tic is her bizarre taste in unwearable clothes. The movie’s humor relies heavily on the outlandish creations of the costume designer, Leesa Evans, to evoke the fashion world’s insane excesses. The tepid satire is undercut by cameo
appearances by fashion giants like Valentino, Marc Jacobs, Anna Wintour and Tommy Hilfiger. Because they are in on the joke, their very presence robs the movie of any remaining edge. While there are laughs to be had with the sequel alas not as many as the first one, maybe wait for this one to watch at home. For every laugh that Zoolander 2 elicits, there’s a pang that all this was funnier the first time around. There are some moments of brilliance, like the climactic scene featuring Will Ferrell reprising his role as Mugatu, which may be worth the ticket price alone. Verdict: 5/10
18 February 2016 Gazette 25
Gazette
FEATURE opinion: Focus Ireland wants the government to Create equality
Sister Stan focuses on the continued housing crisis As the election countdown continues the stark reality is that a record number of over 5,000 people are homeless. Shockingly one in every three people who are homeless is a child. Meanwhile, one in every 16 households is in need of a home as they are one of the over 100,000 households stuck on social housing waiting lists nationwide. Sadly the problem hits home in every county but the most people who are homeless and in need of housing are in our capital city. Focus Ireland is working hard to help families and people who are homeless and to prevent many others from becoming homeless in the first place. Our Family Team in Dublin helps one family a day to secure a home (in partnership with the Dublin Regional Housing Executive & Local Authorities) and escape the nightmare of homelessness. However, at the same time at least two more
families are still losing their homes and becoming homeless every day. More single people are also being forced into homelessness due to rising rents and poverty. --------------------------
‘Focus Ireland wants to say loud and clear that the housing crisis impacts on people across the country and in all walks of life’
--------------------------
Sister Stan
--------------------------
How can we stand by while families and their children who are homeless are forced to live in one hotel room for months at a time? There is nowhere safe for the children to play, do their homework or for the family to even cook a meal. This is causing terrible damage for these families and also the many single people
who are homeless stuck in hostels or some even sleeping on the streets. Focus Ireland is always working hard to put forward realistic policy solutions to help prevent and end homelessness. We do this work through our 70 lifeline services in Dublin and around the country. We also have a proud track record of changing many government p o l i c i e s a c r o s s ke y areas. This work may be mostly behind the scenes but it has played a vital role over the years in bringing forward many important policies in the area of supported housing and also in the provision of aftercare for young people leaving State Care at the age of 18. Our work in recent months we hope will play a part in developing the policy responses of the next Government on these impor tant issues. We have lobbied all key parties and independents and submitted a very comprehensive policy document which not only outlines
Sister Stanislaus Kennedy
our demands but even breaks this down to the specific actions required by each Minister in the next Government to end homelessness. We are now calling on voters to add their support to our work. We have drafted an Election Demands document which highlights five key commitments we are asking ever y candidate to make to help the next Government end the crisis. Our campaign is calling on voters to email 5 key demands to all their local candidates and demand to know each
politicians position on the issues. These demands include calling for the next Government to deliver 40,000 social homes over its five-year term and to set a firm target date for ending long-term homelessness and rough sleeping. We are also calling for all candidates to make a commitment to end family homelessness and take action to support holding a referendum on the ‘right to a home’. I would ask people to please add your own voice to the campaign
at www.focusireland. ie/get-involved/takeaction Focus Ireland wants to say loud and clear to every candidate standing in this General Election that the housing crisis impacts on people across the country and in all walks of life. This is a terrible crisis but it’s vital to stress that there are solutions to these problems but they will only be delivered if the next elected Government knows that this is a national priority. Focus Ireland is calling on all voters to make sure they use the election cam-
paign to mark the cards of all their local candidates on this issue. I am asking you to please take action now and after the election to let the next Government know that you want to live in a more equal Ireland. As we approach the centenary of 1916 Rising and Proclamation it would be a proud legacy for our nation to be able to stand over the promise that we really do cherish all children equally. sr stan Founder, Focus Ireland
26 dun laoghaire Gazette 18 February 2016
Dun LaoghaireCLASSIFIEDS improvements
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Further Information Ref: D15A/0738 Steve Hood has applied for the construction of a new JURXQG ¿UVW ÀRRU UHDU and front porch extension of 28.1sqm gross area, and vehicular entrance to existing dwelling at 131 St. Patrick’s Crescent, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. Further Information has been furnished to the Planning Authority, and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at WKH RI¿FHV RI WKH 3ODQQLQJ Authority, during its’ public opening hours. Submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (₏20.00) within 2 weeks of the date or receipt of the newspaper notice & site notice by the Authority.
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Permission is sought for increasing the driveway entrance to 3.5 metres and all associated site development works at No. 85 Springhill Avenue, Blackrock, Co. Dublin by Sian & Mark O’Toole. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Dún Laoghaire during its public opening hours. A submission/ observation may be made on payment of ₏20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the planning authority. 26188
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28 gazette 18 February 2016
SPORT
FastSport Soccer sisters camps launch 2016 dates: THE 2016 SportsWorld FAI Soccer Sisters Easter Camps were launched at the FAI national training centre with participation numbers set to reach new heights. The hugely popular programme will be spread into even more communities around the country this year due to 30 more venues being added to the calendar. A fantastic way for girls aged between seven to 12 years to get involved with football in a fun and friendly environment, the Soccer Sisters Easter Camps also helps to continue the excellent work of developing women’s football. Republic of Ireland women’s senior head coach Sue Ronan helped to launch this year’s programme, along with internationals Aine O’Gorman and Rianna Jarrett. Last year saw a 40% increase in participation.
hockey: belfield side make big move up to second in women’s league
UCD run up double victories stephen findlater sport@dublingazette.com
UCD made the big move in the women’s EY Hockey League as their double victory over the weekend saw them jump into second place ahead of Railway Union and Pegasus. They got the best of Railway 3-2 on Saturday afternoon thanks to goals from Emily Beatty, Deirdre Duke and Elaine Carey before running up a 3-1 win over UCC on Sunday in Cork. It comes at an important time in the race for the guaranteed EY Champions Trophy playoff places which will be handed to the top three finishers.
Miles Warren’s side had fallen behind on Saturday against Railway early on but bounced back to lead 3-1 and they duly held off a concerted late fightback from their Sandymount rivals. The win against UCC was more routine. Hermes dropped points for the first time in the campaign in a stunning 3-3 draw with Pegasus at Queen’s, their perfect run falling in game 13. Hannah Grieve’s deflected shot earned the Ulster side a share of the spoils after Hermes had led three times in a fantastically open, attacking tie. The draw does not ove r l y d a m a g e t h e B o o t e r s t ow n cl u b ’s chances of landing the
title due to results elsewhere. They now need four points from their remaining five games to land the title. Cork Harlequins produced a brilliant 16 minute spell that yielded four goals to see them get the better of Pembroke 5-1, leap-frogging their opponents in the process. Karen Bateman started the run in the 26th minute before Miriam Crowley, Yvonne O’Byrne and Cliodhna Sargent’s penalty stroke extended the gap to 4-0 and game over with 18 minutes left to set up the win. On the men’s side, T h r e e R o c k R ove r s returned to the top four thanks to a 1-0 win over
UCD’s Deidre Duke gets away from Railway Union’s Zara Delany. Picture: Adrian Boehm
Railway Union as their counter-attack game proved the difference. Harry Morris deflected home the winner in the third quarter from turnover ball for the game’s only goal. It moves them back above Tallaght side Glenanne who were beaten 3-2 by bottomplaced Cookstown in Tallaght. Indeed, the Co Tyrone side’s only points this season have come against the Glens,
winning 5-1 in the first series of fixtures before Christmas. Greg Allen and Shannon Boucher exchanged early goals while Ryan Millar and Joe Brennan did likewise before Andrew McWhirter carried the day for Cookstown. T h e r e s u l t m ove s Cookstown level with Annadale on points but they are behind on goal difference in the battle to avoid automatic rel-
egation. Monkstown, meanwhile, were comfortable winners over Pembroke for a third time this season, this time running up a 3-0 scoreline at Serpentine Avenue. Peter Caruth and Geoff Cole made it 2-0 by the 11th minute while Lee Cole closed out the tie with a corner push. It strengthens their place in the EY Champions Trophy play-off places.
Gonzaga’s Saturn racers through qualifying round sport@dublingazette.com
Entrants in last year’s Schools Technology Challenge in the RDS
SAT U R N R AC I N G f r o m Gonzaga College, Ranelagh, are thrilled to see their hard work in research and preparation for their project plan has paid off as they have successfully advanced passed the qualifying stage of the F1 in Schools Technology Challenge, powered in Ireland by Irish Computer Society. The competition has a long history in Ireland and is now in its ninth year. Team manager Callan Egan describes the hard work and dedication their team
has put in so far to get to this stage in the competition: “We all hope the large amount of work we’ve put in will pay off. This team gives 100% every week and we all work for each other, for the team.” The Qualifying Stage is composed of a five-page plan on how Saturn Racing intended to create their 25cm balsa wood Formula One car by showing their research, proposed budgets, designs and so on. In order to encourage creativity and originality amongst the entrants, extra points were given
to teams who submitted one additional item along side their mandatory five-page plan. This item could be anything from an additional page in the plan, a PowerPoint slide or a video. Marketing and communications manager of Saturn Racing, Joost Peeters, was very proud of her team and also gives key details on their team’s originality piece and explains why it sets their team apart from their competitors in the challenge. “We have the knowledge of cars and wisdom in marketing. Each member brings something
different yet when it all comes together, you get six TY students pushing the limits in this competition.” Every team that has entered this challenge are looking forward to the Regional finals and watching the event and Dublin team Saturn Racing looks forward to participating in the regional finals on February 25 and 26 in the Citywest Hotel, Saggart, Co. Dublin. The F1 in Schools National Finals will be taken place during the Tech Week showcase in the RDS on April 28.
18 February 2016 gazette 29
Gazette
Igiehon pursuing the American hoops dream Former Moyle Park College student has made the switch to the US with a very clear goal of landing a place in the NBA, using his time at Lawrence Woodmere College as a crucial stepping stone adam doherty sport@dublingazette.com
CLONDALK IN has bred a lot of sporting talent over the years. The local gyms and school halls have produced boxers who have performed at Olympic and World Championship level. The pitches and streets have developed a number of international footballers, some of whom are around the current Republic of Ireland setup. There’s been dozens more success stories in different sporting fields but a genuine basketball star is something Dublin 22 can yet associate it’s name too. That may change in the near future, however, as
former Moyle Park student Aidan Harris Igiehon progresses through the development ranks stateside in search of his dream of reaching the NBA. Now 17, Igiehon is a scholar of the Lawrence Woodmere Academy, a “premier college preparatory school for students, families and educators who embrace quality education with shared priorities, passions and commitment in an environment that values wisdom and nurtures personal, community and global responsibility.” GazetteSport caught up with Igiehon, firstly asking what he misses about home, unsurprisingly there are a couple of things he prefers in New
York. “The main things I miss about Ireland are my friends and my mother,” he said. “I do not miss the weather at all though! But it was extremely tough to leave my friends and community. “The thing that I liked about Moyle Park is that it was close to home. My school here in New York is two hours away from home. “But I feel that leaving Ireland when I was young was the best choice for me. I left Ireland in pursuit of my dream of becoming a professional. “When I moved to America, the one major lifestyle change was the amount of work I was forced to put in. “As the competition got
Aidan Harris Igiehon has been signed up by the Lawrence Woodmere Academy
tougher it made me realise I have to change physically and mentally. “It was easy to adapt to the climate change, but America is much bigger than Ireland and the lifestyle is faster, that was tough to get used to.” In his time at Moyle Park, the talented power forward, standing at an
Sporting talent runs strong in the Igiehon genes it would seem as Aidan’s older brother Brandon is also stateside, although playing soccer. Having initially crossed the Atlantic to play at Brooklyn Italian’s soccer club, Brandon Igiehon is now at Manhattan soccer club.
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‘Because I am 6’9’’, I don’t get treated like a freshman at all; people look up to me’ Aidan Harris Igiehon
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imposing 6’9’’, was part of a team that reached an All-Ireland final and was a popular figure around the school. But what is it like being a freshman from another country in New York? “To be an athlete in Lawrence Woodmere Academy is fun,” he says. “But I don’t get treated like a freshman at all. Because I am 6’ 9’’, people look up to me and see me as a leader. “I settled in pretty quickly as the school has very much a family orientated atmosphere. I made friends really quickly.” On the court, Igiehon has impressed too, with Jeff Weiss, Head Basketball Coach at LWA recently praising the youngster by saying “he has things to learn but is blessed with height and talent”.
The MSC is seen as a strong feeder club for players looking to take the step into MLS. While the MLS may be the goal for Brandon, the NBA is the endzone in Aidan’s eyes. “My main goal is to become one of the greats that played this game; I see myself in the NBA in five years,” he told us confidently. On a final note on his old school, this Igiehon spoke of a possible return one day. “I know if I visited they would welcome me back with open arms, I am very proud to be Irish.” Should his hardwork keep-up and he continues to impress on the courts stateside, we may not have to wait too long until Clondalkin can claim an LA Laker, Miami Heat or probably more fitting, a Boston Celtic.
FastSport
St Vincent’s U-16s fulfil favourite’s tag ST VINCENT’S girls’ water polo team from Glasnevin took gold as they won the Irish Under-16 cup final in Lisburn while their boys’ team took bronze. Going into the girls’ final, St Vincent’s were clear favourites and had not been beaten in any match during the season. They came into this competition as Leinster cup winners and were also winning the Leinster and national leagues this season as well as national league Division 2. On finals weekend, they duly emerged from group A with wins over North Dublin as well as Tribes A and Tribes B with a cumulative total of 34 goals scored to five conceded. In the semi-final, they beat Clontarf 6-0, setting up a final against Tribes A. It proved an exciting match in the first quarter as St Vincent’s scored first from Sadbh Kindlon. Tribes A replied with two goals from Maedhbh Hannon and went ahead 2-1. The response was quick from St Vincent’s in the second quarter, scoring a goal by Aoife Hennessy and a third from Niamh O’ Meara. Tribes A replied with a goal from Sophie Moran but St Vincent’s scored again by Kindlon and another goal by Molly Reilly eked out a 5-3 lead at half time. In the second half, Kindlon put further daylight between the teams only for Moran to reel in the gap once more. Tribes replied with another goal from Ciara Pagden but St Vincent’s closed off the game with goal from Ciara Kindlon to win by 7-5. On the boys’ side, St Vincent’s won their group winning against North Dublin and Lisburn and beat Cathal Brugha from Belfast in the quarter-final. They subsequently fell to Corrib in the semi-final, leaving to play Grads from Belfast for bronze, a result they duly landed on an 11-6 scoreline. St Vincent’s Water Polo team train in the National Aquatic Centre on Mondays, and Wednesdays from 8.15 pm to 10.15pm for senior men and women.
Gazette
30 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 18 February 2016
SPORT
FastSport
soccer: students teach mochta’s late lesson at belfield
Blackrock clubmates set pace at Santry race THEY may have been donning their school colours, but Blackrock AC no doubt looked on proudly as several as their members performed brilliantly in the Leinster Schools cross-country in Santry last week. On a Wednesday afternoon when the going was particularly soft, Blackrock athletes didn’t let conditions halt their running with a number of impressive results. Club-mates Sarah Healy of Holy Child Killiney, and Amy Rose Farrell of Mount Anville absolutely stole the show in an enthralling race over 3,500m in the intermediate girls. It’s becoming a regular occurrence that these two aspiring runners become features in the highlight of events and it was no different here. Healy, winner of two Leinster titles in the past two years, did what she’s done in the past, pulling away by maintaining a frightening pace and coming home first to claim three provincial wins in as many years. Farrell will no doubt be delighted with her second place finish having made the initial move to pull-away and only Healy being able to surpass here. Farrell’s schoolmate Julie Ringrose, another Blackrock AC member, also ran this race and ran well, coming home in 23rd place which secured a bronze medal for her team and crucially, a place at the AllIreland schools in Sligo. All three girls, in great form of late, will still qualify for this race next year and no doubt be looking to be among the medals once more. Earlier in the day, fellow Mount Anville students Ellen Chung and Helena Paran competed in the junior race. Chung ran a decent race and had a particularly strong finish but no doubt will have been seeking more than the 20th place she achieved. Paran, meanwhile, showed awesome character and grit to come home in 14th place, despite having suffered with shin splints in recent weeks. On the boys’ side of things, Pappy Tucker showed his natural ability and talent with a strong fifth place finish in the Junior race, despite very little action in recent weeks. His position means the St Michael’s student will also now compete in the All-Ireland Schools in Sligo.
UCD manager Diarmuid McNally
Molloy shoots down Saints
lsl sunday senior UCD St Mochta’s sport@dublingazette.com
3 2
A LAST-minute concession saw Mochta’s fail the latest assignment of their Senior Sunday title charge last Sunday in Belfield against UCD. A late strike by Timmy Molloy saw the students take all three points and claim a crucial win after a thrilling encounter at the southside campus. The game started in lively fashion on a cold day and the hosts took the lead after 23 minutes when Marc Whelan struck an effort low
and hard beyond Mark Osbourne. It wasn’t long until the Saints, fresh off the back of a 3-1 win over Greystones, levelled the match once more. It was a lovely move with Gareth Cooney and Karl Somers combining before Keith Dunne found space and slotted calmly past the students’ stopper. Somers looked to send the Blanch side in front on 39 minutes with a cheeky lob that clipped the crossbar although the opposing keeper looked to have it covered. It was a tight opening
cross country Hehir wins laurels at inter-counties in Tuam sean Hehir, pictured, took the senior
individual honours at the GloHealth Inter County Cross Country Championships at the Palace Grounds in Tuam last weekend. Hehir, from Rathfarnham WSAF, won the men’s 10,000m in 34.32 ahead of local favourite Gary Thornton (Galway City Harriers) was second in 34.50. Brian McMahon (Clonliffe Harriers) was third for Cork in 36.18. Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile
half and, at the break, the pair remained level. T he game became more open after halftime with both sides committing more to attack right from the off. UCD star ted on the front-foot, forcing Osbourne into a couple of fine saves. Mochta’s soon settled themselves with a Somers’ def lected effort forcing the college keeper into a brilliant save to push the ball over the bar. UCD re-took the lead when the dangerous Joe Keohane buried an effort past Osbourne
after Somers lost possession on the edge of his own box. Cooney soon equalised with a fine finish into the roof of the net after a terrific run and pull-back by Lee Dixon. The goal looked to have rescued a point but Molloy had other ideas deep into injury time when he found the net and gave his side all three points. The win pushed UCD further away from the relegation battle that’s getting tighter as the weeks go by in the division. Now six points clear
of third-from-bottom Tolka Rovers, Diarmuid McNally’s side have also crucially played a game less than their rivals around them. Mochta’s meanwhile will have to attempt to get back to winning ways as soon as possible if they’re to maintain their unsuspected title-charge. In a season where there seems to be a new league leader every Monday morning. Firhouse Clover now sit at the summit, five points clear of Brian McCarthy’s side, who now lie in fifth place in the standings.
18 February 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 31
Gazette
ucd move on to semis
Local quartet lead way for Belfield outfit
Club Noticeboard Cuala
cuala’s Conor Mullally and Michael Fit-
zsimons, Naomh Olaf’s David Byrne and Kilmacud Crokes’ Paul Mannion were all part of the UCD side that beat UCC 3-11 to 1-9 to reach the semi-final of the Sigerson Cup. Mannion kicked a pair of points while Fitzsimons started in the full-back line with Byrne taking up the number six shirt. Mullally was introduced in the 33rd minute.
ladies football: goldrick returns to dublin fold
THE annual Mick Holden golf classic
Colm Cronin and Darragh O’Connell
will be held this year on June 3. It was a
who all featured for the Dublin senior
sell-out last year on a beautiful sum-
hurling team that lost out to Tipper-
mer’s day and we hope the weather
ary in the opening AHL1A match on
will be equally kind this year.
Saturday.
This is an important fundraiser for
Well done to Martha Byrne who
adult hurling and key to driving on to
was part of the Dublin ladies Gaelic
more success in 2016. Look forward
football team that defeated Mona-
to seeing you all again this year. Reg-
ghan 5-18 to 0-6 on Sunday.
ister your interest early by emailing
Well done also to Cuala’s Connor
Eddie Gough on gough.eddie@gmail.
Mullally, Michael Fitzsimons and the
com.
rest of the UCD Footballers who beat
Hard luck to Mark Schutte, David Treacy, Oisin Gough Cian O’Callaghan,
UCC last Wednesday to march on to the Sigerson Cup semi-final.
Shankill A BIG thank you to everyone who sold
€2 for each child. There were no matches played over
national club draw tickets; the club did very well.
last weekend because of the weather.
Our juvenile academy, sponsored
The next match for the boys’ U-13 foot-
by O’Donnell’s Pharmacy, Shankill, is
ball team is at home to Parnell’s in the
back in action every Saturday morn-
Cliffs this Saturday.
ing. Contact your team manager for
All other boys and girls team fix-
training details as we are using sev-
tures will be available during the
eral venues in order to accommodate
week. Men’s adult football team training
all of our various age groups. If you would like your child to join
has resumed. New players always wel-
the academy, just come along any
come; contact Kevin on 086 8449902.
Saturday or contact us at secretary.
For more information, contact sec-
shankill.dublin@gaa.ie. There are no
retary.shankill.dublin@gaa.ie or 086
trials, no selection processes and no
3215087. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
annual subscription. The cost is only Noelle Healy in action against Monaghan’s Cora Courtney. Picture: Oliver McVeigh/Sportsfile
Jackies sweep aside Monaghan challenge
NFL division one Monaghan 0-6 Dublin 5-18 james hendicott sport@dublingazette.com
FOXROCK Cabinteely defender Sinead Goldrick - a Dublin lynchpin made her return from injury against Monaghan last weekend, forming a solid part of a comfortable Dublin defense, while teammate Amy Ring grabbed a goal in a thunderous top division victory. The Valentine’s Day victory could easily have been more substantial, with Dublin’s eventual
5-18 to 0-6 victory reflective of a side very much going for points rather than goals in the second half, after their early flurry had utterly blown away the Ulster side. Carla Rowe - scoring two goals having been switched to half forward from the wing for the game - Ring, Niamh McEvoy and Nicole Owens did the goal damage in the first period, with the girls in blue fast out of the blocks, netting their first three goals inside ten minutes. Owens set things underway, but the Dubs attacking play was little
short of a parade in a fiery first half display, with fluid moves against a rabbit in the headlights Monaghan defence seeing 4-6 on the board for the visiting AllIreland finalists before Monaghan notched their first point of the game. Things were to be marginally more even from then on, with Rowe’s second on 21 minutes rounding off the goals in a clinical display, one that perhaps benefitted from Dublin manager Gregory McGonigle’s previous experience with the Monaghan side. Come the second half, McGonigle took
the chance to blood his bench in preparation for the visit of Cork to Parnell Park on the 28th of this month, with the All-Ireland champions despite having yet to pick up a victory in the early days of their title defense - sure to provide a sterner test. The 27-point victory marks an important return to form in NFL Division 1, with the ladies having been turned over by Mayo against the odds in their previous outing. It showcases the girls in blue’s power in a league in which nobody seems in real control.
Foxrock Cabinteely THE Dublin Ladies Gaelic football asso-
supported the cake sale that was run
ciation published the U-13 to minor
by the Feile team. As usual, it was a
leagues last week. The club will be field-
huge success.
ing teams in the following age groups
Commiserations to last year’s U-16
and divisions: U13 – Division 1 and Divi-
team who lost out to a very strong
sion 3; U14 – Division 2; U16 – Division 1;
St Anne’s team in the 2015 Division
Minor – Division 1 and Division 4.
4 league final which was played last
We will also be fielding teams from
weekend.
U-8 to U-12 in GoGames and we look
Well done to the Dublin ladies senior
forward to reporting on all teams
team who resumed their winning ways
progress throughout the year – hint
with a fantastic win over Monaghan in
hint mentors!
round three of the National League.
The first round of games is sched-
Unfortunately, the weather scup-
uled for the weekend of February 27
pered the resumption of the Acad-
and all fixtures will appear on the
emy on Saturday. All going well, it will
home page of our web site. Best of luck
resume this Saturday. Keep an eye on
to all teams!
the Academy Facebook page during
Many thanks to everybody who
the week for updates.
Kilmacud Crokes BOTH our U-16 teams had good wins
due to pitch availability.
on Saturday over St Pat’s and Fingal
Our Kick Start Crokes programme
Ravens. The U-15A team beat Syl-
continues across a number of activi-
vester’s and the U-15B team drew
ties, working towards a club/com-
with St Peter’s.
munity 5km run on Sunday, March
The U-14As lost to Loreto. The U-14Bs beat O’Toole’s with U-14C losing to Peregrine’s. The U-14D game was not played
13. The club has also been successful in its application to be included in the GAA Healthy Club programme.
GazetteSPORT all of your dun laoghaire sports coverage from page 28-31
leading the way: Blackrock AC runners in superb form on Leinster schools cross-country scene P30
february 18-24, 2016
Aidan’s hoop dreams:
Dubliner makes a big step toward NBA target P29
Philip Harrison, centre, is continuing his rise through the referee’s ranks with another important appointment
Harrison off to Dallas
Kilmacud man gets the call for a second successive trip to officiate at the Dallas Cup in Texas, one of the most prestigious youth tournaments
sport@dublingazette.com
KILMACUD’S Philip Harrison, pictured centre, has been invited to officiate for a second time at soccer’s prestigious Dallas Cup as his star continues to rise. Harrison initially took up refereeing at the age of 16 whilst in transition year in St Benildus College, beginning with smallsided games. In August 2008, he took on his first beginner’s course and quickly stepped up to the Dublin and District Schoolboys Leagues. Via this route, he went on to take charge of some of the big schoolboy finals including the Ferrari Cup, PFAI Cup and SFAI Evans
Cup as well as taking part in many underage international appointments. In 2012, he was accepted onto the FAI School of excellence and, in 2015, the 25-year-old was an assistant referee in the Airticity League First Division. In the past year, he also received a call to blow the whistle at the Dr Pepper Dallas cup, a high profile youth competition in the US with teams like Derby County, FC Dallas, Dallas Texans, Colorado Rapids and Portsmouth FC taking part. In 2016, the competition will host Japan’s Kyoto Sanga (Japan), Southampton, Liverpool, Birmingham City and many more to be announced from across the world in the
Under-19 super group. Indeed, the competition – now in its 37th year – offers some of the most competitive international youth soccer in North America, all played out in some of the biggest stadia in Texas. The Cotton Bowl has a capacity for 92,000 fans while Toyota Stadium, which is the home of FC Dallas from the MLS, can hold up to 20,500 and is a host venue for the event. Entry is by invitation only and teams are selected based on their competitive performance in the year leading up to the tournament. Indeed, the event has seen the likes of Raul, Andrea Pirlo, David Beckham and Michael
Owen take part, to name a few, while the list of clubs features the best from each continent including Real Madrid, Arsenal Manchester United and Boca Juniors among those who have battled for the title. Harrison will fly out to Dallas on Friday, March 18 where he will join what is known as the “referee family” at an event considered by many to be the world’s best for a youth tournament. World class referees from around the globe, many of whom are FIFA referees with past World Cup appointments, take part in the tournament each year. In 2015 Howard Webb featured as the tournaments special guest.