Dun Laoghaire

Laoghaire GAZET TE FREE

November 15, 2012 Find us on

Month XX, 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE • BLACKROCK • CORNELSCOURT • DEANSGRANGE • DALKEY • GLASTHULE • MONKSTOWN • GLENAGEARY

INSIDE: Take part in our reader survey and win a weekend in Birr and Des Bishop tickets P25

SPELLING IT OUT: School’s students need €350k for a new pitch Page 2

A brush with art: Showing wares at a winter fair ACCLAIMED artist and illustrator

Football:

Goldrick wins ‘surprise’ 2012 All-Star award Page 32

Camogie:

Cuala rack up series of titles over weekend Page 31

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES......................6 DUBLIN LIFE...................11 OUT&ABOUT ..................17 CLASSIFIEDS ................26 SPORT ...........................27

Shirley Copperwhite was joined by her daughter, Annabelle, at last weekend’s Winter Fair, held at Fitzpatrick’s Castle Hotel in Killiney. The Dun-Laoghaire Rathdown County Enterprise Board event attracted an estimated 5,000 visitors, all keen to see, and support, the work of 40 local designers and craftworkers, with Shirley’s work on show alongside Susannagh Grogan, Rebekah Kahn and Tara Hammond, to name but a few.

Amgen, NRH land deal set to aid expansion

Rehabilitation Hospital’s sale to be of mutual benefit to both parties

 BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN

PHARMACEUTICAL company Amgen and the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) in Dun Laoghaire are both set to expand through a proposed land purchase

agreement.

A change to the County Development Plan was passed by Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council in order to facilitate the proposed land buy.

Amgen is seeking to buy

some of the NRH’s surplus land, in order to expand its operations in the future, and the NRH will use the money from the land sale to effect the first phase of an overall extension to the hospital.

In a statement to The

Gazette, a hospital spokeswoman said: “There is a plan to construct a 120-bed replacement ward facility with some integrated therapy services to replace the current ward facility.”

Full Story on Page 5

2 DUN laoghaire Gazette 15 November 2012

dublin GAZETTe newspapers i n f o r m at i o n

sion hill Hopes for all-weather facility

Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 - 6010240 Dublin Gazette Newspapers publish eight weekly quality free titles, covering the greater Dublin area from Swords to Dun Laoghaire

c o n ta c t s Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Acting News Editor: Rob Heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile jmaile@gazettegroup.com Picture Editor: Paul Hosford picturedesk@gazettegroup.com Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sport@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward ads@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 - 6010240 sales@gazettegroup.com

Find us on

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

Dominican College Sion Hill students help spell out the school’s wish to develop an all-weather multisport facility, given the declining state of the school’s 43-year-old grit pitch on the school grounds

Call to help school with €350k pitch campaign D O M I N ICA N C o l lege Sion Hill this week launched their Pitch In For Sion Hill fundraising campaign, one that aims to raise €350,000 to develop an all-weather multisport facility, benefiting both the school and the local community.

In recent times, the Blackrock school has enjoyed rejuvenated fortunes on the sports fields, winning a junior hockey cup title last year, while transition year student Paloma Pineda represented the school on an Irish international crosscountry team.

It has heightened the

 stephen findlater sport@gazettegroup.com

need to replace their 43-year-old grit pitch on the school grounds; one on which they hope to host a wide range of sports, such as hockey, soccer, football, athletics, tag rugby and tennis, for both current and future students.

Speaking about the move, Sion Hill viceprincipal Gerry Killion

said it is of vital importance that the school improve its facilities.

He said: “This push started two years ago when we decided we needed to upgrade our pitch.

“It’s been there for 43 years, and has gone into disrepair and has become very difficult to play sports on it; very difficult to train [using it].

“One of the difficulties is, for the hockey players, that they had to go to UCD once a week after school, and to hire buses to get them there.

It is expensive, as we are a non-fee paying school

– it would be about 40 or 50 students a week.”

To pursue this goal, the board of management has already laid out €20,000 in order to get planning permission – something that has now been secured, paving the way for the school to build the new pitch once funds are in place.

At the fundraising launch, Ireland’s most capped hockey player, Nikki Symmons, and current Irish captain, Alex Speers, spoke of the importance of developing such a facility.

Killion is urging people to support this ven-

ture. He added: “We are trying to raise €350,000, and are looking for donations from anyone who is willing to [donate].

“We have a website where you can do this, where you can make donations online on a virtual pitch. It’s brown at the moment but, as you make donations, it will turn green. Hopefully, it will be fully green in the not too distant future.”

For further information on Pitch in for Sion Hill see www.sionhillcollege. ie. Donations can be sent to Dominican College Sion Hill, Blackrock.

Anti-drilling group meet to discuss lobbying  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

MEMBERS of environmental group, Dublin Bay Concern, met in Killiney Castle Hotel last week to discuss lobbying the Government to rescind the granting of a foreshore drilling

licence near Dalkey Island.

The licence, granted to Providence Resources for oil exploration of the Kish Bank Basin by the Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan, allows for the setting up of a rig 6km off the coast, and for a seismic survey to be conducted in a

conservation area off Dalkey Island.

According to a spokesperson for Dublin Bay Concern: “The aim now is to persuade the Government decision-makers to reassess their position on oil and gas exploration, not least to ensure that, if such develop-

ment occurs, it does so to the full and transparent benefit of the Irish people and economy, and that it doesn’t happen in areas of natural heritage until appropriate and full assessments of the environmental impact have been undertaken, and the public consulted.”

15 November 2012 DUN laoghaire Gazette 3

charity

referendum: labour councillor critical of poor voter turn-out

Wing it to a fun day out

Locals ‘not engaged in their civic duty’  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

A LOCAL politician has told the Gazette that although Dun LaoghaireRathdown returned the third-highest Yes vote regionally in the Children’s Referendum, confusion over its content, and the low turnout of voters, exposed a lack of civic understanding and duty among Government members and the populace.

Councillor Niamh Bhreathnach (Lab) said: “I welcome that Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown had a strong Yes vote.

“Yet, I think it’s time for the Minister [for Children, Frances Fitzgerald] to go back to the drawing

We have 135,000* readers each week *based on standard industry measurements

advertise your business to our readers call 60 10 240

board in terms of civic education. A referendum and constitutional change is not the way to make a political point about the Government.

“There is no understanding of the role of the Constitution there.”

The referendum was passed by 57.4% to 42.6%, but the national turnout was just 33.5% of the eligible electorate.

The constitutional amendment contained in the referendum proposal covered a host of children’s rights issues to do with the State’s role in loco parentis, adoption qualification, and the protection of children.

Cllr Bhreathnach went on to criticise a system which, she says, leaves the

electorate uninformed before voting.

She said: “Though everyone got a booklet on the referendum, people still said they didn’t know what it was about.

“When I was Minister [for Education] and I was asked what kind of civics I wanted, I said I wanted an informed electorate with the skills to dissect information.

“It was terrible to see young, intelligent people saying they didn’t know enough about this referendum. We’re proud to live here in Dun LaoghaireRathdown, but there is an undercurrent of disappointment beneath the figures that tells of a population not engaged in their civic duty,” she said.

 Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

Olympian feet: Gary’s training hard for skiing success at Korean Games The tenth Special Olympics World Summer Games will take place

in PyeongChang, South Korea from January 26 to February 6 next year, with Dun Laoghaire’s very own Gary Burton one of the six athletes set to represent Ireland in Alpine Skiing.

Gary has been a member of both Bray Lakers and Kilternan Karvers Special Olympics Clubs for the past five years, and has achieved a number of accolades through his involvement with Special Olympics Ireland. These include winning a silver medal in football at the 2010 Special Olympics Ireland Games in Limerick, but Gary also won two gold medals at the 2012 Special Olympics Ireland Winter Games.

THE Hen House restaurant in Dun Laoghaire is set to launch its own children’s book, The Fun Book, this month, with at least €1 from every book sold being donated to The Jack and Jill Foundation.

To celebrate the launch, the restaurant is hosting a family fun afternoon, with plenty of games promised for children at the launch, as well as a colouring competition. Meanwhile, for the grown-ups, there will be sample treats and nibbles from the Hen House menu.

The book launch and family fun event will take place on Friday, November 23 in the Hen House Restaurant, at The Pavilions complex.

4 DUN laoghaire Gazette 15 November 2012

vote Motion sends message to Government on marriage equality

Council agrees to support gay union  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

A MOTION to support same-sex marriage was passed by Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council by 17 votes to four at a council meeting on November 12.

Fine Gael councillor Barry Ward’s motion stated: “That the council supports equal access to marriage for all people, irrespective of sexuality,” and was passed by a majority of councillors present.

A letter will now be sent

to the Minister for Justice and Equality expressing the council’s view.

Councillor Ward spoke to The Gazette on foot of the result, saying the motion: “... was passed 17 to four and, realistically, now it’s not for us to do any more [with the issue].

It’s a matter of national legislation. “[The council motion] sends a message to Government. There is nothing in the Constitution that says gay people cannot marry. What is there is the inclusion of the basic family unit as part of mar-

riage, but there is no reason this couldn’t be a gay family unit.

“Now it’s a legislative matter; if we legislate [to support same-sex marriage], then it can be challenged if that’s what some people want.”

One of those councillors who voted against the motion was Cllr Donal Marren (FG).

He told The Gazette: “I do not stand in judgement on gay couples, and they should be allowed to live together if they want, but it’s not marriage, as that implies inherent

FastNews

Sell unwanted baby clothes

Leas Cathaoirleach, Councillor Stephen Fitzpatrick (Lab), welcomed the passing of the motion, saying: “Now Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown is one of a number of local authorities that have passed such a motion for marriage equality for all”

child rearing.

“Same sex couples can also rear children in a loving and caring way but it cannot be called marriage.”

Leas Cathaoirleach,

Councillor Stephen Fitzpatrick (Lab) welcomed the motion’s success.

He said: “It’s great news.

Now Dun LaoghaireRathdown is one of a number of local authori-

ties that have passed such a motion for marriage equality for all.

“Ireland now has a seat on the UN Human Rights Council, so this is a good step forward.”

BABYBABY.IE are holding a Baby Bay Market in the Stillorgan Park Hotel this weekend.

On November 18, from 11am to 2pm, parents can come along, take up a stall and sell off their unwanted baby clothes and other items.

Stalls cost €20 and are available to book online at BabyBayMarket.ie.

Alternatively, if you are looking to buy some barely used baby clothes, equipment and toys, then you can avail of the array of items on offer at the market.

Admission costs €3, and children get in for free. BabyBay.ie is giving €1 of each admission price to Barnardos Children’s Charity.

support: argos plan to help enable ireland Christmas

Appeal to recycle toys  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL Argos stores are giving people the opportunity to recycle their unwanted toys and help out a worthy cause this Christmas.

The Argos Toy Exchchange has been up and running since October and the retail store will pass on unwanted toys to help Enable Ireland.

The charity will resell or recycle the toys and all money raised will be used to support Enable programmes. Each bag of donated toys is worth around €10 to the charity.

Suitable items to donate include toys, textiles, household items, books and video games.

Argos will give anyone who donates a goodquality unwanted toy a €5 voucher to redeem against their Argos purchases over €40, which must be redeemed by Christmas Eve.

Ann Kelly, retail operations manager at Enable Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Argos on the Toy Exchange campaign. Our 21 shops now help to support physical, educational and social services for more than 4,200 children and adults with disabilities in Ireland.

“In the current economic climate, it can be difficult to generate stock donations, but we’re sure the public will really get behind this exciting campaign and donate lots of toys and games to support Enable Ireland.”

Argos in Dundrum is located at Unit 25, Level 1, Dundrum Town Centre, and the Dun Laoghaire store is located at Unit 20, Bloomfield Shopping Centre, George’s St Lower.

To participate in the Argos Toy Exchange, simply go to your local Argos store and make your donation before Tuesday, November 27.

Cabaret fun THE Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire is holding a Christmas Cabaret in early December to get the festive season under way early.

On the bill are wellknown favourites such as Sonny Knowles, Paddy Cole, Noel V Ginnity, George Hunter and Galaxy.

The cabaret will take place on Tuesday, December 4 in the hotel.

For further details on the event, contact the hotel at 01 230 0030 or see www.royalmarine.ie.

Great craft fair at Marlay Park THE Marlay Craft Fair takes place this month in Marlay Park.

Hand-crafted designs featured at this year’s fair include Elaine Tracey’s jewellery, Valerie McGurdy silkware, pottery from Colm de Ris, and many more.

The fair runs from 6pm to 9pm in Marlay Park on November 23 and then continues until Sunday, November 25, from 10am until 5pm.

15 November 2012 DUN laoghaire Gazette 5

rights Public invited to avail of free, impartial advice ahead of Budget 2013

Get informed at Citizens Information Centres  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

CITIZENS Information Centres in Dundrum, Dun Laoghaire and Stillorgan are calling on people to inform themselves about their entitlements ahead of the upcoming Budget 2013.

Some areas covered by the information centres include reducing tax bills, getting tax refunds and applying for a medical/GP visit card, as well as social welfare entitlements.

The Citizen Information Centre will be hosting a pro-

motion at the Bloomfield Centre on Thursday, December 6, from 11am until 3pm, where advisors will be on hand to deal with people’s queries ahead of the budget.

Citizens Information Centres provides free, impartial information and assistance

on social and civic rights and entitlements. The centres provide comprehensive information on all social services, with a view to tailoring the best options available to each person.

The service is free of charge, and confidentiality is guaran-

teed.

Dun Laoghaire Citizens Information Centre is located at Marina House, Clarence Street; telephone 076 107 7400, or email dunlaoghaire@ citinfo.ie.

Dundrum Citizens Information Centre is located at Unit 2,

Level 5, Dundrum Town Centre; telephone 076 107 7430, or email dundrum@citinfo.ie.

Stillorgan Citizens Information Centre is located at St Laurence’s Parish Centre, Lower Kilmacud Road; telephone 076 107 7440, or email email:stillorgan@citinfo.ie.

Humphreys takes issue with constituency name change  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

COUNCILLOR Richard Humphreys (Lab) has expressed his objection in writing to the change of the name of the constituency of Dublin South to Dublin-Rathdown in the upcoming Electoral Bill, expressing his view to the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan.

He said: “I believe that this is not a suitable name, The National Rehabilitation Hospital

sale: facilitates mutual expansion

Amgen is set to buy hospital land  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

PHARMCEUTICAL company Amgen and the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) are planning to expand their facilities after a proposal to alter the County Development Plan was passed

by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) this week.

The alteration will allow Amgen to purchase land from the neighbouring hospital site to facilitate its future expansion, while funds derived from the sale of the land will allow the NRH to expand.

In a statement to The Gazette, a hospital spokeswoman said:

“There is a plan to construct a 120-bed replacement ward facility with some integrated therapy services to replace the current ward facility.

“The first phase will be funded by the NRH foundation; the second will be done using the proceeds of the sale of land to Amgen, and the HSE will fund the third phase of the hospital.”

A spokesperson for Amgen said: “At the moment, our 25-acre site on Pottery Road is nearly fully-developed, so additional land gives us the potential for further expansion as we are very constrained, at present.

“The NRH was happy to negotiate with us on

the sale of their surplus land. They can then build a better hospital, which will benefit the local community.”

Councillor John Bailey (FG) said: “I’ve been briefed on the plans by both Amgen and the NRH, and the variation is being sought by them jointly with the support of the HSE and the IDA. “The hospital seeks to extend its current capacity with a 120-bed facility.

“Amgen is already investing €200 million in Dun Laoghaire, and its value in job creation cannot be understated,” he said.

The plans will now go out to public consultation.

for a number of reasons.

“As a name, ‘Dublin Rathdown’ has no traction or resonance in the public mind, and is particularly likely to cause confusion, given that the Dublin South constituency has suffered from quite a number of boundary changes.”

The proposed name change comes from the Boundary Commission’s move to alter constituency lines between Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown

and Dublin South. The constituency formerly known as Dublin South will be called Dublin Rathdown, as its number of seats is reduced from five to three and it loses 13,000 voters to Dun Laoghaire.

The Boundary Commission’s recommended changes will not come into effect until the Electoral Bill is passed.

Cllr Humphreys added: “I think it would be a pity if we lost not merely the

heritage and history associated with the name, but also the public sense of identification with and knowledge of the constituency that the existing name involves.

“Fundamentally, a change to the name of the Dail constituency is simply not necessary.”

When contacted by The Gazette, Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council had no comment to make on the proposed name change.

6 Dun laoghaire Gazette 15 November 2012

gazetteGALLERIES

Discount retailer Dealz recently opened its new branch in the Bloomfield Shopping Centre in Dun Laoghaire

new dealz: Retailer brings jobs and bags of bargains to Bloomfield

D

ISCOUNT retailer Dealz has recently opened its new store in the Bloomfield Shopping Centre in Dun Laoghaire, and has created 30 jobs.

Dealz is part of the Poundland retail group.

To celebrate the opening, there was a free family fun day in the store on the day, where there was a range of activities such as face painting, children’s entertainment and competitions.

With Christmas fast approaching, Dealz has a range of festive goods such as food and confectionery, household decorations, Christmas cards and wrapping paper.

Ryan Kennedy and Mathew Redmond

Lynn Murphy and Jane Dowling. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

elf factor: WANNABE HELPERS TRY TO IMPRESS

Mikayla and Kelsey Byrne

Caitlin Timmons

Better be good – Santa’s looking out H

AMLEYS Toy Shop was packed to the rafters with would-be elves recently, as an open audition saw lots of people come along, ready to impress in the store’s Elf Factor. Held to find seasonal workers to help Santa Claus with his duties at the store, Santa was joined by his Head Elf, Greg; Siobhan

Hearne, marketing manager, Hamleys, and Sandra McKay, store manager, Hamleys. The judges were impressed by the passion, enthusiasm and elfless energy on show, as people, sang, danced, made silly faces and told jokes – all the better to help make Christmas shopping at Hamleys great.

Siobhan and Isabelle Graham. Pictures: Andres Poveda Aoife Tyrell

Some of Santa’s elves also took to the stage

15 November 2012 dun laoghaire Gazette 7

Have you seen yourself in the Gazette? Buy photos online from only â‚Ź6.99 at www.gazettephotos.com

Ian Harris

Ellen Doyle

Robin Maguire

Scott, Lucy and Jessica Plower

Santa poses with his Head Elf Greg

Hannah Brennan

Hamleys store manager and judge, Sandra McKay

8 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 15 November 2012

SUPPORT DUN LAOGHAIRE BUSINESS

CALL THE GAZETTE ON 60 10 240

ENTERPRISENEWS Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council offices and (inset) An Cathaoirleach, Councillor Tom Joyce (FG) and Minister of State, Department of Environment, Community and Local Government, Jan O’Sullivan

Re-focus your Business for the coming year...

November 27th 2012, Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire The Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Enterprise Board is running this inspirational seminar aimed at assisting the small business to re-focus their energy and achieve business success in 2013.

The high profile panel of speakers include: Sean McNulty, Innovator ‘Innovate your business model to engage customers and create more sales’ Sean has 30 years’ experience in innovation management and implementation of creativity tools & techniques, strategic business planning and R&D implementation.

Barbara Moynihan, On Your Feet ‘Communicate to Stimulate - Create the right impression for your business’ Barbara is a leading learning and development facilitator with a speciality in the whole area of face to face communication, in particular the 60 Second Pitch and Presentation Skills.

Pearce Flannery ‘Attitude Defines Altitude – How to develop a winning business outlook’ An award winning entrepreneur and best-selling author Pearce Flannery is renowned as one of the world’s leading motivational speakers and training facilitators.

The seminar will be facilitated by Orlaith Carmody, broadcaster, professional speaker, media commentator and Managing Director of Mediatraining.ie who has run training and management programmes for many years for the top names in Irish Business. Join us for this for this half day event which is taking place from 12.30pm – 5.30pm on Tuesday 27th November 2012 in the Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire. The cost is only €25 per person and to find out more about this event or to book your place, please visit www.dlrceb.ie.

FASTNews

Come play with local musicians



SHOP LOCALLY

COMMUNITY Local Authority of the Year win

Top Chambers Ireland awards given to DLRCC  BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) has been named Local Authority of the Year 2012 at the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government awards.

The awards took place in Dublin last week, and saw DLRCC shortlisted in 10 award categories.

As well as the overall title of Local Authority of the Year, the council also had a winning project (Higher Education Grants – A Portal to a Brighter Future) in the Innovation in Technology category.

This initiative resulted in more efficient processing of higher education grants across 13 different local authorities.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, An Cathaoirleach, Councillor Tom Joyce (FG) said: “I am honoured to collect this award on behalf of DLRCC, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the staff for their continued hard work during what has been a very tough time for the public service.

“This award is all the more merited, in view of the severe reduction in

staff numbers and also because of the difficult financial constraints that currently prevail in this county council.

“I would also like to acknowledge the tireless efforts of the council’s management team, and my fellow councillors, as well as the residents of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, who take such an active interest in the running of their county.”

Former Cathaoirleach Cllr John Bailey (FG) said: “This is fantastic news. We were nominated last year, and have won the award now.

“It’s great recognition for the staff of the council and all others involved; it shows that everyone in the county is pulling together.

“I was very involved in all the projects, including the higher education grants. Other councils followed suit and took up the same initiative.

“We have to help each other and support each other, and each council has to go after what it wants. Under my chairmanship, we did very well in Dun Laoghaire, I think.

“Dun LaoghaireRathdown is certainly on the pick-up,” said Cllr Bailey.

A LOCAL group, Dublin South Music Makers, are calling on local musicians to join them at DCI Social Club on George’s Street in Dun Laoghaire for regular sessions.

There are no tutors, instructors or coaches at the meetings – only members who want to play music and sing songs with other musicians.

All levels of experience and musical tastes are also catered for.

The group is calling out for new members to come along, especially anyone who would like to reignite their passion for music and meet likeminded enthusiasts.

A great time is promised for all, with the meetings proving a perfect way to hone your musical skills, and meet other talented musicians.

The sessions take place at the DCI Social Club every Wednesday at 7.45pm, and admission is €2.

Christmas fair features crafts A CHRISTMAS craft festival will take place in the Royal Marine Hotel on Sunday, November 18, from 10am to 5pm.

The festival will showcase local creativity, with more than 60 stands selling crafts which are all hand-made by the sellers.

The items on sale include candles, ceramics, glass, jewellery, clothing and soap, and admission is free.

The festival is also hosting the Winter Hands competition, in which entrants had to design and make something that can keep hands warm. Although submissions are now closed, the submitted entries can be viewed at the festival.

For further information, see www.IrishCraftFestival.com.

15 November 2012 DUN laoghaire Gazette 9

campaign Events aimed at protecting cyclists, pedestrians around the county

Road safety campaign aims to cut DLR deaths  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) recently ran their latest road safety campaign, Beware of Truck Blind Spots, as part of the Garda Siochana’s Casualty Reduction Strategy, which started on October 1.

Cyclists were encouraged to

sit into a HGV to understand what drivers could and could not see from behind the wheel of a truck – an interaction that proved enlightening for cyclists and pedestrians who attended the event.

Beware of Truck Blind Spots was one of many events planned during the eight-week duration of the strategy.

Recently, various high-vis-

ibility merchandise, including free LED bicycle lights provided by the National Transport Authority (NTA), were given to pedestrians and cyclists to raise awareness of the campaigns being carried out during the initiative.

Gardai are running the Casualty Reduction Strategy to combat the high number of fatalities on the roads around

Calling on locals of all ages to join in the Reindeer Run in aid of the RNLI, chef Rachel Allen said it will be a “great way for a family to have fun ... and help save lives at sea”

charity: fundraising for the rnli

Join in the fun of a Reindeer Run  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

CELEBRITY chef and author Rachel Allen recently launched the Dublin Charity Reindeer Run, in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI), which will take place in Marlay Park this December.

Allen got on board with lifeboat volunteers to call on local people of all ages to join up for the Reindeer Run, which will take place at the Rathfarnham park on Sunday, December 2.

To get into the Christmas spirit, all participants are given a pair of

novelty antlers to wear, and an RNLI Reindeer Run T-shirt. Rookie the Reindeer Run mascot will also be on hand throughout the day to join in the fun.

Allen is a long-standing supporter of the RNLI, and is familiar with the life-saving work of the charity as she lives so close to the Ballycotton Lifeboat Station.

Speaking at the launch, she said: “My family and I watch as the volunteers launch their all-weather lifeboat on exercises every Wednesday evening. When we see it launch at any other time, we know the call-

out is for real.

“We are so lucky to have a service like the RNLI, which relies completely on the generosity of the public and voluntary contributions. The Reindeer Runs are a great way for the whole family to have fun while helping the charity to save lives at sea.”

Entrants for the Dublin Reindeer Runs are asked to register online at www. rnli.org/reindeer, with the closing date for registration set for November 30. The cost of registration is €9 for the Santa Saunter, €20 for the 5km element, or €22 for the 10km element.

Dublin. The overall aim of the scheme is to reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured in the DLR region and elsewhere.

Other local events lined up as part of the strategy include an AXA/DLR Road Safety Road Show, supported by An Garda Siochana, in the Royal Marine Hotel from 10am to 12pm and 1.30 to 3pm on

November 26 and 27, and a Garda/NTA cycle survey, which includes the distribution of free lights and vests, at Fosters Avenue on November 28.

There will also be two award ceremonies for local children in the Concourse Area of County Hall on December 7.

The first will be a presen-

tation for the children who took part in a Christmas decoration competition, and the other will be a presentation to the children involved in a Smarter Travel art competition.

After this event, children from St Joseph’s National School in Dun Laoghaire will then distribute free bicycle lights around County Hall.

10 dun laoghaire Gazette 15 November 2012

gazetteGALLERY

Have you seen yourself in the Gazette? Buy photos online from only €6.99 at www.gazettephotos.com

RTE presenter Miriam O’Callaghan, Fr Peter McVerry and comedian Barry Murphy recently hosted the Peter McVerry Trust’s Annual Gala

Sarah Gannon and Alex Crean

Ball in Clontarf Castle

McVerry trust raises €15,000 for homeless

T

HE Peter McVerry Trust’s Annual Gala Ball recently took place in Clontarf Castle, and raised over €15,000 for the charity.

The Peter McVerry Trust provides a wide range of services to homeless individuals.

The money raised will go directly

Patrick and Janice Peake

towards providing housing and support services to help young homeless people.

The charity expects to work with 1,500 individuals in 2012.

More than 300 guests turned out for the annual ball, which is now in its sixth year, and there was a lot of glam-

orous fashion on the night.

The charity ball was hosted by RTE Presenter, Miriam O’Callaghan, and comedian Barry Murphy was the auctioneer.

For more information about The Peter McVerry Trust, log on to their website www.pmvtrust.ie.

Geraldine O’Sullivan, Pat Doyle and Valerie Ronan

Alec and Aveen Colvin

Alicia and Celine McGivern

15 November 2012 Gazette 11

Schools P14

asdfsdaf Business P27 P16

dublinlife

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools



Gazette

diary P12

charity: lUCY KENNEDY lends a helping hand

Calendar to raise funds for Friends of the Coombe CELEBRITY mum of two, Lucy Kennedy, recently launched a heart-warming 2013 calendar on behalf of Friends of the Coombe, the charitable organisation which raises funds to assist in the development of the Coombe Women and Infants University Hospital.

The calendar features 19 children born at the hospital who spent a sig-

nificant period of time being cared for in the Coombe’s neo-natal unit, which looks after more than 1,000 babies each year. Each month of the year shows a before and after image of the children illustrating their size when they were born and a current image of them, exploring their dreams of what they want to be when they grow up.

Speaking at the launch,

Kennedy said she was delighted to launch the initiative.

“I am always struck by how small and fragile new-born babies are but seeing how tiny some of the children in this calendar were at birth was a real eye opener.

It is truly wonderful to see them now – thriving and running around. I am delighted to be able to support this initiative

to help raise money to allow children who are born prematurely or ill to blossom and be allowed to dream of the future.”

The calendar, which features photographs taken by award-winning Giggles and Smiles Photography in Malahide can be purchased from both www.friendsofthecoombe.ie, and www. gigglesandsmiles.com for €10 including postage.

Lucy Kennedy with Tanya Crosbie from the Giggles and Smiles Studio and twins Alexandra and Taylor Hanley (4) from Celbridge, Co. Kildare.

Gazette

12 Gazette 15 November 2012

dublinlife

diary

Sew much help to mark 1913 Lockout A NEW tapestry commission, commemorating the 1913 Lockout, was launched by President Michael D Higgins in Liberty Hall on November 6.

The tapestry is a largescale collaborative visual arts project to commemorate the Dublin Lockout, and painters Cathy Henderson and Robert Ballagh were commissioned by

SIPTU, and the National College of Art and Design, to create a visual narrative of more than 30 panels.

The panels will be laid out in storyboard-style, and will be multimedia

textile pieces measuring two feet by two-and-ahalf feet.

The panels are being made by a wide range of volunteers, bodies, schools and societies across the

city and country.

share the joy of diwali DIWALI, the Indian Festival of Lights, is being celebrated at CityWest Convention Centre this month.

The multicultural event, which has been organised

by Unitas ISAC – a voluntary organisation set up and run by the Indian community in Ireland – will feature live music, performances celebrating Indian cinema, authentic Indian cuisine, and plenty of stalls and children’s entertainment, before a closing fireworks display.

Standing for the reaffirmation of hope, a celebration of the joys of life, and a renewed commitment

President Michael D Higgins is caught in the spotlight, as he helps to launch a specially commissioned tapestry series to commemorate the 1913 Lockout

to friendship and goodwill, the Irish Diwali celebrations will be held on Saturday, November 17 from 12pm. Tickets cost

€13 for adults, with free entry for under-12s.

For further information on all the activities, see www.festivaloflights.ie.

15 November 2012 Gazette 13

promote your school

tell us about your s c h o o l’ s e v e n t s

c o n tac t t h e G a z e t t e call 60 10 240

Gazette

14 Gazette 15 November 2012

dublinlife

trip: bellringing at christ church

An appealing visit  Kathryn Mullen Castleknock Community College

ON THE cold morning of October 25, some 20 students – including myself – from Castleknock Community College made a trip to Christ Church Cathedral.

Although the day required a much earlier start than usual, the excitement outweighed our tiredness.

After arriving at the cathedral on time, we were met by our tour guide, Lesley.

She shared with us a lot of knowledge about the history and architectural structure of Christ Church.

She showed us around the cathedral, and she also brought us down to the tombs, which hold a collection of costumes used in the popular television series, The Tudors.

O u r t e a c h e r, M r Stanley, then met us back at the entrance and we were introduced to a man, also named Lesley, who is the head bell ringer at the cathedral.

He brought us all the way up to the top bell tower, which was a very interesting experience.

We climbed the 86

Former Rose of Tralee winner, and noted Irish traditional musician, Aoibhinn Ni Shuilleabhain, puts her musical skills to good use to help Castleknock Community College students ring the bells at Christ Church Cathedral, as Colum McGovern, Conrad JonesBrangan, Georgina Duffy, Una King, Cian Hegarty, Liam O’Driscoll and Kathryn Mullen look on

steps – to be precise – and we banged a few heads along the way, but we eventually got to the top.

He then explained to us the method of scientific change ringing.

All of this information was very new to us, and it made us realise how exact the science of bell ringing really is.

Lesley then allowed us to ring the bells by ourselves. All of the stu-

dents suddenly became children again.

The prospect of ringing an enormous bell appealed to everyone, and it was a race to the ropes.

Everyone got a turn but, regardless of Lesley’s attempts, we could not ring in time with one another.

It was a fantastic day out, and we highly recommend it for any and every school.

schoolLife Get involved with our new schools pages As part of the recent relaunch of the Dublin Gazette Newspapers, we are reaching out to all the schools in our catchment areas to become a closer part of our community than ever before.

Schools are the beating hearts of communities, one of the last places around which a community can gather.

We are calling on budding writers and photographers from all of our

schools to help fill the pages and, in order to encourage the next generation of journalists and snappers to get involved, we are partnering with Harvey Norman to present the Dublin Gazette Newspapers Cub Reporter and Cub Photographer of the Year awards.

For further details, contact me at rheigh@gazettegroup.com, or telephone 01 601 0240.

15 November 2012 Gazette 15

Gazette

schools dail na nog: more than 2,150 pupils take part in survey

Body image matters  emma storey, rosa barrell and fiona stinson Mount Sackville

A SURVEY was undertaken recently by Dail na nOg and aided by researchers from the School of Applied Social Studies in UCC on the subject of body image.

T h e r e s u l t s we r e based on the answers of 2,156 young people, aged between 10 to 21.

Mo r e t h a n t h r e e quarters of the participants said body image was important to them.

The main findings were that those under 12 were most content

with their body image, and 15-year-olds were the least.

It also showed that girls’ view their body image by comparison with others, whereas it’s bullying that most influences boys.

Activities More than half said their body image interferes with them taking part in certain activities, such as swimming.

There was a higher percentage of girls than boys that exercised for their appearance rather than enjoyment.

It’s clear that teenagers today have a poor body image. Drastic

action needs to be taken to alter the statistics of the survey’s results.

A recommendation is to introduce a body image module into SPHE class in schools – this would promote self-esteem and a positive body image.

Having noticed that bullying influences the way boys see themselves, it seems that it would be beneficial if schools were stricter on their anti-bullying policies.

Suggestion Another suggestion is to have a body image week, once a year, where everybody wears a stick-

er, on which they write a few positive things about themselves.

This way, people will think about their body

image and pick out the good aspects.

It should also raise confidence among the youth of today.

A survey on body image was undertaken by Dail na nOg and aided by researchers from the School of Applied Social Studies in UCC

GAZETTE

16 GAZETTE 15 November 2012

DUBLINLIFE

Q&A

JAMES KENNEDY, SAPORI ITALIANI

Bringing authentic Italian fare to Ireland GROWTH in the economy is slow to take off, but one local entrepreneur’s business is booming. Sapori Italiani, a new Dundrum company, imports high-end, authentic, fresh Italian foods to the Irish market.

James Kennedy started the company 18 months ago after returning from a trip to Italy. Having spotted a niche in the market for high-quality Italian fare, Kennedy started import-

ing and selling at markets stalls around Dublin city.

The company’s fare comes from the Liguria region of northern Italy, where pesto originated. The range is the only authentic non-pasteurised pesto imported to Ireland, and is certified by the Italian food board to call the long-shelf life products “fresh”.

For further information, see www. saporiitaliani.ie.

How long have you been in business?

customers informed of our products and where they are available from.

We regularly post recipes to show customers how versatile our products are.

My current business has been running since the beginning of 2011.

What makes your business successful?

Simple: good products.

What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?

We import the only fresh authentic Italian pesto range available in Ireland; all our competitors’ products are pasteurised, but pasteurisation kills the authentic taste of pesto.

How has the recession impacted your business?

Not a great deal, to be honest; it’s my belief that a good product at a good price will always sell.

How has the recession impacted your business?

The recession has made us very careful of what products we import, and in what quantities. Our product range has been reduced and our stock level also.

What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business?

Nothing that I can think of.

How do you use social media (Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn, etc) to help your business?

We use Facebook to keep our

What is your ambition for the business?

My aim is to offer a range of highquality Italian food products, and maybe, one day, start selling Irish foods into Italy.

What is the best piece of business advice you ever received?

“It’s not the price you sell your products for that’s important – it’s the price you buy them for.”

What is your favourite thing about doing business in your local area?

Getting to see my products on my local shop’s shelf every time I do my shopping.

What living person do you most admire?

Valentino Rossi – a motorcycling legend!

What is your favourite Dublin restaurant?

JD’s steakhouse, Terenure.

Who would your three dream dinner guests be, and why?

Valentino Rossi, just because he’s my idol; John Bishop, as he would provide the laughs and Jennifer Maguire, funny and good-looking.

BUSINESS

Supported

by AIB

Investment made simple THE idea of not spending some of your money now, so that you can use it later, is called “saving”. Okay, okay, I know you know, but it had to be said.

But, to what end? So that you have cash on hand for emergencies, major purchases and irregular expenses.

You will also need savings if you want to buy property.

How big should your savings pot be? I would say enough to support yourself and your dependants for between three and six months (with such net annual income kept in a rainy day fund, or RDF).

Where should you keep your savings? Where you can get your hands on them quickly – an accessible, ondemand deposit account. Remember, with savings up to €100,000 per person, you are covered by the Deposit Protection Scheme via the Government (via the taxpayer – you and me).

The two best demand accounts currently are KBC Bank (at 3.25%), and AIB Direct (at 3.1%, with two withdrawals per annum allowed).

Investments differ from savings in that they represent money you either don’t need in a hurry or, if you are a risk-taker, you don’t mind losing. All investment involves risk, because either you are giving your money to someone else to make money for you, and there is always the chance they will turn out to be crooks or idiots (or both), or you are buying something that may be worth less when you come to sell it.

However, there are lots of investments that aren’t really risky. Normally, the more money you stand to make from the money you invest, the higher the risk.

As a general rule, if you do invest outside of deposit accounts, you should at least be aiming for double the return of the best deposit account (12-month fixed rate – Ulster Bank 3.75%) to justify this decision.

You will often hear people describe investment as being a case of “risk versus reward”. What they mean by this is how much risk they want to take for what sort of reward. The key things to remember about investment are that you should diversify. In other words, don’t keep all your eggs in one basket, but make sure you are spreading the risk by investing in different areas.

Over the long-term, the highest returns have come from the stock market.

The majority of your money, say 90% for most people, should be in relatively low-risk investments, such as the stock market, property, pensions and bonds (a posh word for Government and public company IOUs).

Start saving if you haven’t already and, once your RDF coffers are full, you can then plan an investment strategy to suit your needs.  Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

UNIQUE ENVIRONMENT: MALTHOUSE CENTRE PRAISED

Shared designer space inspired and inspiring THE best of Irish design is set to flow at the old whiskey distillery building on Dublin’s North Circular Road, after a shared space for Irish designers was created recently.

T he brainchild of Arthur Duff and Greg Tisdal, the Malthouse Design Centre is creating a name for creative thinking, attracting designers of all disciplines including architects alongside interior, furniture, lighting, industrial and product designers, as well as textile, graphic and brand designers.

One of these, Bennis Design, has been nominated for an IDI award for excellence in design for the Enterprise Ireland Annual Report &

Accounts 2011.

Bennis Design & Brand Partners were founded in 2002 by Caroline Murphy and Alan Bennis.

Together, this husband and wife team help to bring brands to life, across a full range of digital and print media.

Over the past 10 years, Bennis Design has helped companies such as Enterprise Ireland, An Post, SEI, Visual Artists Ireland, BreastCheck, Cervical Check, The National Library of Ireland and Elan.

Murphy said: “The Malthouse Design Centre has a unique environment where the lines between design disciplines are allowed to be blurred.

“We each inspire and

Alan Bennis and Caroline Murphy, of Bennis Design

support each other, which is a huge positive as business people in today’s market.”

As a way of promoting the importance and value of design for Design Week, the Malthouse Design Centre invited well-known Irish design professionals to choose gems of beautifully-designed objects that hold a personal meaning for

them, familiar as well as unexpected objects, and concepts that have revolutionised the life of designers or their way of thinking.

The Living with Design exhibition is running until December 21 at the Malthouse Design Centre.

For further information, contact Alan Bennis of Bennis Design at 086 835 5494.

15 November 2012 Gazette 17

asdfsdaf P27 TRAVEl P24

MOTORS P22

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

US election night: a tense climax to the presidential campaign in D2

Pets

Dublin’s own Democratic convention  PAUL HOSFORD

“What’s at stake? The entire future of the United States.”

Dennis Desmond, the chairman of the Irish Democrats Abroad is unequivocal. It is just after midnight in The Arlington Hotel on Dublin’s Bachelors Walk and a group of about 70 Barack Obamasupporting Americans and Irish have dedicated themselves to staying up until the early hours of Wednesday morning to see the results from the anticipated American election roll in.

As the conversation carries on, burgers and hot dogs are served and a big screen displays CNN. The air of tension is palpable. Though most polling has Obama ahead, the race has been closer than anticipated, and that has set some supporters of the 44th president on edge.

“I don’t want to say it out loud, but if Romney can take Ohio, we could

be in trouble,” says one woman at the bar. It is the first time I’ve heard a mention of a possible defeat, but the theme of the night is recurrent — Ohio, Florida, Iowa, Nevada, Wisconsin, Colorado, Virginia, Pennsylvania and North Carolina — swing states.

The two words that dominated the final week of the campaign coverage have become so used that they have almost lost meaning, but all eyes here are firmly on those states holding the balance of power.

To understand why states like Ohio matter so much, you have to take for granted that certain states vote certain ways. In fact, before polling opened fully across the States last Tuesday, 41 states, plus Washington DC, were already coloured red or blue, depending on their allegiance to the Republican or Democratic parties.

With just nine states

that are likely to change from one election to the next, those states are bound to take a disproportionate amount of the media’s, and candidates, attention.

So, as Connecticut, Vermont, Delaware, DC and Maryland go in the president’s favour, there is little more than polite applause and barely an eyebrow is raised as the Republican challenger Mitt Romney takes Montana, Georgia, Louisiana and Alabama.

When New York goes to Obama, as it always was going to, the place erupts. There is a healthy New York contingent here.

“I think it’s about going forward with the president, rather than a candidate who wants to limit women’s rights, limit social welfare and squeeze those who have the least,” says Desmond. For him, the choice tonight is clearer than it has ever been.

With the 2010 victo-



Gazette

MUSIC P19

can you give Molly a home?

Irish Democrats Abroad chairman Dennis Desmond is all smiles after the result

ries of the far-right Tea Party, Dennis bristles at the notion they are in any way similar.

“There was a perception that we weren’t so far apart some time ago. But, now, you have a Republican Party that is so far radicalised to the right, without any idea of compromise.”

Picking up on Denni’s Boston accent, I ask how Romney’s links to Massachusetts, where he was governor, colour his view of the president’s opponent.

“Back when he was elected, we knew he was full of it. We knew he was just using Massachusetts to get to the presidency.”

Overall, most here are happy with the first four years under Obama.

“I’m happy, particu-

larly given the cards he was dealt. He stopped the haemorrhaging of 800,000 jobs every month and passed the Affordable Care Act, extending health coverage to 45 million Americans.

“He has got us going in the right direction. It’s hard to undo eight years of George W Bush in four years.”

That is the ongoing theme here; satisfaction rather than outright joy at the job done by the president. But, Dennis is far more bullish about the incumbent’s chances; he wants to win and win big.

With tiredness setting in, people begin to step outside into the frigid Dublin air just in order to wake up, to stave off the fatigue.

The first swing state

goes to Romney, North Carolina goes red and, for a brief minute, there is a chance he may win. My initial thought is of what the atmosphere in this room would become in that event.

That thought is quickly erased as Pennsylvania is comfortably won by Obama, with Wisconsin and Iowa following swiftly. The closing of west coast polls gives Obama California, Oregon and Washington.

The announcement that Ohio is won causes the Arlington bar to erupt.

At 4.28am Irish time, this is a room full of joy.

Dennis Desmond embraces all around him and tells me he’s glad it’s all over:“It has been such a hard few months, but it’s over now. We won.”

DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust, Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity, to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs.

Molly is a one-year old Labrador crossbreed.

This stunning young lady is extremely affectionate and adores company.

She would love to go to a forever home that has big kids and possibly another dog as Molly finds being alone quite worrying so would cherish a canine pal to hang out and play with.

Long walks on the beach and splashing around in the water makes Molly a very happy dog indeed.

This lady is a true gem and a real favourite in Dogs Trust.

If you think you can give Molly a loving home for his twilight years, contact Dogs Trust at 01 879 1000.

Further information about their work can be found on their website at www. dogstrust.ie.

All dogs that are adopted from Dogs Trust are vet-checked, vaccinated, neutered and micro-chipped before being re-homed.

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 15 November 2012

OUT&ABOUT

STYLE

€59

Kardashia

ng

ew h t s d a e l lamour

€52

ay

€35

€39

€52 €52

€49

€45

STYLE focus Take a peek at the new Kardashian Kollection as it comes to Ireland  LAURA WEBB

THE wait is finally over, Kardashian fanatics are jumping out of their stilettos with joy and making their way to Dorothy Perkins stores across Dublin to get their fashionable hands on items from the long awaited Kardashian Kollection.

Kim, Kourtney and Khloe have brought their own style into their collection for Dorothy Perkins. Leather, leopard print, studs, oversized shirts, boho frills and figure hugging dresses are just some of the styles that can be seen throughout the collection.

The three girls, each so different in style and shape, are making it easy for

women of all shapes and sizes to find something that best suits their body within the collection.

The sisters are fast becoming style icons and their own collection started out in Sears in the US. Now they have landed in Ireland and are bringing some LA glamour and style to the streets of Dublin. The Kardashians shot to fame starring in reality TV show, Keeping Up with the Kardashians, which followed them and the rest of their unconventional family.

Speaking to Gazette Style this week, Dorothy Perkins store manager at Liffey Valley, Emer Macken said there is a great buzz about the place. “People were calling weeks in advance to the collection coming in, asking questions about when it’s going to be in, have we seen it ourselves, what’s it going to be

like? There is just a great buzz.

“The collection is going to be available here in Liffey Valley, Blanchardstown and Jervis Street in Dublin and we also have it in Killarney, Limerick and Galway.

Working in Dorothy Perkins the staff got a sneak preview of the fashion which Emer says just looks “fab”.

“It is very leopard print, black, purple – that’s a big colour. The bags are all very studded, it’s just gorgeous. It’s very them. You can pick out outfits and say that is what Kourtney would wear or Kim. There is even a Kourtney jean, a Khloe jean and a Kim jean and you just know by the look and the cut of the jean who it belongs to,” she told Gazette Style.

15 November 2012 Gazette 19

Gazette

€39 €65 €50

€70

€72

€39

€59

€45 €65

exclusively with Dorothy Perkins Asked what makes the girls so likeable, Emer said: “I think it is that they are so real. They are so normal. I watch their show, Keeping up with the Kardashians, and they are just so very true to themselves, they are very - this is who I am, I have a big bum, I have the boobs and this is the figure that is going to inspire curvier women to wear the dresses they have always wanted to wear. Why shouldn’t they? just because they have big hips – just embrace the body that you are in. I do think the cut of the dresses is fabulous, they are all just gorgeous.

“Everyone here just wants to get their hands on everything, but we [staff] are under strict instructions not to purchase on the

first day. It is just great that we have it, it is going to be a really good boost for Dorothy Perkins and for retail,” Emer said.

An online preview of the collection was available to view on the Sunday before the official launch day Thursday, November 8, with 14 of the 100 item collection for sale it sold out completely within two hours.

This week, Gazette Style has chosen some of the collection which we think is going to be a hit with shoppers and fly off the shelves to replace items in the wardrobe.

The Kardashian Kollection is now available at participating Dorothy Perkins stores or online at www.dorothyperkins.co.uk.

Gazette

20 gazette 15 November 2012

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

theatre

THE pavilioN THEATRE 01 231 2929 Murdered to Death

THIS hilarious spoof of the best of the whodunnits, complete with a well-meaning amateur sleuth in twinset and pearls, is set in a country manor house in the 1930s.

The butler, an English Colonel, a shady French art dealer and his moll, and a bumbling police inspector are among the characters whose side-splitting antics follow the mysterious death of the house’s owner. It soon becomes clear that the murderer hasn’t finished yet, but will the murderer be unmasked before everyone else has met their doom, or will the audience die laughing first?

November 14-17, tickets are priced at €18/€15.

Draiocht 01 885 2622 Paddy Cole

PADDY Cole is legendary in Irish show business, ever since he first came to prominence in the 1960s with the Capitol Showband. He still attracts many of the people who danced in those days to his shows today. Paddy and his All Stars are renowned for giving audiences a good time - whether it’s jazz, rock ‘n roll, sixties or swing – the result is always the same – a thrilled and ecstatic reaction. November 20 at 8pm, tickets are priced at €22/€18.

Ben Affleck tries out as Jesse’s replacement. Walt is unimpressed

cinema: Ben affleck tells a weirder than fiction story of the cia

Get up and Argo  paul hosford

phosford@gazettegroup.com

REMEMBER Paycheck?

How about Bounce?

Surviving Christmas?

Gigli?

That many absolute turkeys would be enough to bury most careers, never mind them being coupled with being half of the most maligned showbiz couples ever.

How is it, then, that Ben Affleck is flying high as both an actor and a director, has received a slew of awards and nominations and is now generally loved?

T h e a n s we r, o f course, is simple; he is, and always has been, a supremely gifted man.

Affleck won an Oscar for the Good Will Hunt-

ing screenplay at the age of 25 and for his first major feature took on the adaptation of a Denis Lehane novel.

So, as well as being gifted, he is not short in the confidence stakes.

Which is why Argo makes perfect sense in a lot of ways.

The story of a CIA plot to rescue six hostages from revolutionera Iran, Argo mixes 1970s spy thriller with a bumbling farce comedy.

Based on a true story, the film takes us inside the CIA plot to remove the hostages from the grip of Ayatollah-friendly students.

To do so, it is decided to make a film.

Not a real film, but a fake, Canadian sci-fi blockbuster.

If the storyline seems too far-fetched, it is important to note that this all happened and the US government declassified the files in

Film of the Week: Argo h h h h (12A) 120mins Director: Ben Affleck Starring: Ben Affleck, Bryan Cranston, John Goodman, Alan Arkin, Kyle Chandler, Chris Messina, Tate Donovan

OUR VERDICT: OK, so Ben Affleck had that run of truly awful, awful films.

Addressing that is important because, for the last six years Affleck has stood head and shoulders above most of peers as an actor, a writer and a director. Argo, the third entry to his directorial canon, is a fine film which finds the one time Bennifer cohort establishing his style and signature as a film maker.

1997.

The film plays out very like the spy thrillers of the 1970s, arguably the heyday of American film making.

T he paranoia and clandestine dealings, not to mention the hair, give the film the perfect grounding and Affleck has clearly been watching his Parallax View and All The President’s Men. Whereas his previous directorial efforts, Gone Baby Gone and The Town, were set in Affleck’s Boston back yard (or, rather, yahd),

nailing a period drama with a comedic second act and a tricky, messy climax is a completely different challenge.

Again, we come back to the Bostonian confidence coursing through Affleck’s veins.

The film is led by Affleck’s steady hand and an understated lead performance.

A ff leck’s company man Tony Mendez is the antithesis of the Pearl Harbor Ben. He is all crumpled shirts, bad facial hair and slumped shoulders, a downtrodden

everyman thrust into an insane situation.

The star turns come from Alan Arkin as fading producer Lester Siegel, recr uited by the CIA via renowned make-up genius John Chambers, with John Goodman playing the Oscar winner, to provide a fake space opera that would provide the cover story for the agency’s Tehran-based exfiltration operation.

The Hollywood corner of the film, playing off the CIA side, means that the film becomes a balancing act of farce and drama, of comedy and suspense, For Aff leck, whose previous efforts were hardly known for their light-hearted notes, the achievement of turning in a genuinely funny film cannot be understated.

In the end, Argo is one of the year’s finest films and marks Affleck at the top of his game.

15 November 2012 gazette 21

Gazette

GAMING halo 4: the best yet in the popular series

Shoots for the very top  shane dillon

Apart from cutscenes, Halo 4 is, as ever, played from a first-person perspective (above) – all the better to face the challenging enemies in its expertly realised worlds and scenarios, which are presented with very pretty and engaging graphics – and gameplay throughout

THERE’S not much that can tear me away from shivering my timbers in the naval missions of Assassin’s Creed 3 at the moment, but Halo 4 has seen me swap Revolutionary America for (well, an almost) revolutionary shooter.

A while back, I shamelessly namedropped here my preview experience of playing Halo 4 in Madrid – oh look, I’ve done it again – and, now, the XBox 360-exclusive title has finally hit the shelves.

And it’s been worth the wait, indeed.

Developed by 343 Industries, it’s both a familiar, yet fresh, instalment in the popular franchise which, in my eyes, had become somewhat over-familiar.

Indeed, although Halo

 shane dillon sdillon@gazettegroup.com

2 and 3 had some great features, they never had the same impact as the original title did.

Luckily, Halo 4 builds upon the strengths of all of the best parts throughout the series, to date, but makes 4 very much its own game, with a sense of confidence driving the game ever forward.

For those who haven’t already snapped up the just-released title, or for those looking to buy a great Christmas gift, or for those new to the Halo universe, what’s it all about?

Well, I could sit here

filling the rest of the page with the plot alone, which is (sorry, Halo scribes), as ever, Sci-Fi tosh of the nth degree, although expertly presented.

Playing as the eponymous Master Chief, and largely accompanied by a helpful AI companion, you wander through a variety of superbly-created worlds and settings, stepping out (again) as the last, best hope for humanity (again), as an old, alien nemesis race goes to war (again), with, this time around, an ancient alien race also added to the mix (agai– err, actually, this is kind of a new element for the series).

In short, the singleplayer game sees a lot of terrific, and frequently challenging, setpieces and

challenges throughout, with a notably high level of visual polish.

Most importantly, the same cunning, antagonistic – and occasionally amusing – AI for which the series is famous is very much in place, presenting an occasionally formidable, and always entertaining challenge.

However, it’s the multiplayer side of Halo that many gamers will be gunning for and, again, Halo excels here.

With a wealth of game options that go beyond the usual multiplayer features, there’s a lot of highly-competitive fun in the war games on offer.

Interestingly, there’s a pretty detailed and diverse way in which to level up your Spartan-IV

BYTES&PIECES needs more vita-lity

Handheld’s performance still disappoints CASTING an eye over the latest quarterly sales figures for Sony’s Vita handheld, it’s hard not to wonder what Sony will do to give its sales a boost.

I’ve mentioned before that the Vita – in Dublin, at least, not to mention several other capital cities I’ve been in this year – seems rarer than hen’s teeth on the ground; a little like Bigfoot, I know that it’s out there, somewhere, but it’s proving frustratingly elusive to spot as I roam around ...

While the PlayStation 3 continues to do well enough with its strong gamer base, as well as offering its own platform-specific

triple-A titles (whether already available or upcoming in 2013), the Vita is a very different beast.

Despite having some excellent titles – some of which are variants of popular Sony/PlayStation franchises, others of which are quirky new franchises – the Vita

continues to struggle at retail.

(To be fair, I note Nintendo also dropped projected sales for its underperforming 3DS.) A diverse choice of gaming platforms is always to be welcomed, so I hope that Sony has better luck in 2013 with its handy handheld.

supersoldier to create a unique online soldier, with upgrades and loadouts that are anything but spartan on offer.

In short, while Halo purists may disagree, this feels like the quintessential Halo – the game it was always meant to be.

With an awful lot here to praise, Halo 4 definitely deserves taking a shot at on the XBox 360 this Christmas season.

Gazette

22 Gazette 15 November 2012

OUT&ABOUT

FASTtunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods

Walls of wonder with Waters set to return to Dublin for Aviva show Concerts come and go but every so often a gig comes along that has the potential to actually change you. Pink Floyd founder Roger Waters brought The Wall tour here last year, and to say it wowed crowds at The O2 would be an injustice.

I had the pleasure of playing chauffeur to my other half for the journey home as the radio station is right beside The O2. As envious as I was, I was glad I was there to pick him up though, because his reaction to what he had witnessed has always stayed with me.

Still in awe, he could barely string the words together as he tried to recount what he’d just seen on stage.

I remember shaking my head and cursing mid-week concerts, thinking that kind of show was a once-in-a-lifetime event. Happily, I was wrong.

Roger Waters and his band return to Dublin next year for an even bigger, more dramatic performance of The Wall. Run Like Hell for tickets.

MUSIC

Harmony and hope on devastating debut  ROB HEIGH rheigh@gazettegroup.com

THIS week was all set to be about the virtues of pop music and its lineage from the 50s to now, leading into a review of a new release from a returning hero of the form.

That was until I heard The Staves’ debut album.

History be damned, it’s time to embrace the future.

I wrote at the start of the year that The Staves were one of the acts to watch throughout 2012, and as we hit the home stretch of this annus mirabilis, they see fit to make everything just a little bit better and drop this astonishing record.

North Londoners Emily, Jessica and Camilla have a strong pedigree as far as their influences are concerned – among them Fleet Foxes, Simon and Garfunkel and Buffalo Springfield – but their unique harmonies and melding of bright English folk and sublime West Coast pop was something to mark them out as ones to watch.

Seemingly endless touring, on their own as well as in the company of fellow newcomer Michael Kiwanuka and esteemed luminary Bon Iver - who invited the girls to join him on stage this week at one of the gigs of the year at the O2 - has spread the good word. Justice will be served, however, when people get to hear this record in full.

The Staves - Emily, Jessica and Camilla Stavely-Taylor

Dead and Born and Grown gathers together everything that made them an act who would stop you in your tracks to listen and adds another layer to their appeal. The shuffling drums bass, as well as the mandolin and banjo fills, give depth to the sound behind the stunning vocal harmonies that the Staveley-Taylors were first acclaimed for.

There is a great variety within the tracks here, but all of them have in common the fact that these are some quite beautiful and goosebump-inducing songs.

Opening with the understated Wisely And Slow, and winding a gentle path to Mexico, the song that put them on my radar last year, this is top notch music by a trio who clearly adore and understand the form.

Coming in the wake of the recent folk resurgence, there is certainly a market there for The Staves’ deeply effecting stylings, but they plough a different furrow, less the bounce-along-aMumford, and more in the direction of stopwhat-you’re-doing-rightnow-and-listen acts like

Gillian Welch and Laura Marling.

In the wake of the growing recognition of their talents, the support slots and the television and radio appearance is paying off, with the girls set to return to Dublin on November 25 and their addition to the bill in Dingle for Other Voices.

It’s only right that they should go from being one of the bright hopes of 2012 to the brightest light at the end of the year as the dark nights draw in.

The Staves deserve your attention, their talent demands it.

15 November 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 23

Gazette

MOTORS road

NOISE

FordOptions new finance programme

The Renault Fluence, described as the best car built to suit the Irish driver

renault: raft of on-board innovations highly appealing

New Fluence steers its way to top of wish list n Cormac Curtis

At its launch in April 2010, the Renault Fluence was described as the best car built to suit the Irish driver.

Over two years later Fluence has become a best seller in its category, and there are over 6,000 Renault Fluences on Irish roads today.

The new look Fluence features Renault’s new styling identity, similar to that of the recently launched fourth generation Clio.

Its front end has the vertically-set logo at the centre of a broad black strip picked out by chrome beading which provides the car with a dynamic stance.

The LED daytime running lights and chrome/ gloss black inserts also contribute to the new-

comer’s modern appeal.

The design of the new Fluence interior is also more modern, including digital instrumentation for all versions.

The boot is still one of the biggest in its class easily fitting two sets of golf clubs. The cabin is as roomy as ever, and has been enhanced by the use of new upholsteries for segment-topping comfort.

A choice of petrol or diesel engines, with automatic transmission, is available. All diesel engines, either manual or automatic have CO2 emissions below 120g, so belong to the lowest tax band as per today.

The new Renault Fluence has a raft of on-board, connected technologies and innovations including numerous driver-aid technologies – Bluetooth

compatible radio, six airbags and hands-free card with remote central locking standard all across the range, LED lights, rear parking sensors, cruise control, dual zone climate control and a brand new multimedia system available depending on trim level.

From the basic equipment level up, all versions are “connected” thanks to the availability of new Bluetooth radios equipped with USB and jack sockets.

At the higher-end of the range, New Renault Fluence features a major innovation in the form of the Renault R-Link multimedia system which will provide connected services and is ideally suited to motoring use thanks to its touchscreen display and voice commands.

Renault R-Link incor-

porates the navigation system and telephony function and can be connected to portable music players.

The new Fluence comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Renault Finance will offer finance packages on the new Fluence from €199 per month with Renault ReFlex, a personal contract plan which provides Irish consumers with reassurance and flexibility when financing a new Renault.

Julien Lelorrain, marketing director, Renault Ireland: “The fuel efficient diesel engine with lowest tax at €160, fiveyear unlimited mileage warranty and the ReFlex finance solution from €199 per month make New Fluence a very attractive 2013 purchase.”

For customers looking to buy a new car for 2013, Ford Ireland has announced a range of offers on key models that includes an extended five-year warranty. Under the banner of Ford’s Big Four, customers are invited to visit their local Ford dealer to avail of the offers over four weekends leading up to December 2.

The offers on Ford’s top-selling models, Fiesta, Focus and Mondeo, are as follows: Free road tax on the newly redesigned Fiesta. Free 16” alloys, front fogs, premium mats and upgraded console on Ireland’s top selling car, the Ford Focus. Single price bodystyle on Mondeo: wagon, hatchback or saloon just one price starting at €26,995.

And each model comes with an extended five years full warranty.

As part of the promotion, Ford is also introducing FordOptions, a new finance package that helps customers purchase their car with the security of a guaranteed minimum future value.

24 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 15 November 2012

Gazette

Travel

Gazette

&ABOUT OUT fast TRAVEL

See the Big Apple in style from this hotel

THE Big Apple is still definitely one of the most popular destinations for anyone planning a trip to the United States, whether it is for shopping, sightseeing, or just a chance to see the city itself.

Ideally located for anyone keen to explore the streets of SoHo, Greenwich and downtown Manhattan, nyma – the New York Manhattan Hotel – could be the place to be in 2013.

With its close proximity to the city’s famous Madison Square Garden, a trip to NYC could coincide with the reopening of the Statue of Liberty’s Crown to the public, following renovations.

Rooms at nyma start from $114.99 per night (€44 per person) in February. As part of the Apple Core Hotel group, nyma boasts free wi-fi, complimentary continental breakfast, and free US calls. See www.thenewyorkmanhattanhotel.co.uk, or call 0044 808 178 6363.

Capital treasure Clontarf Castle Hotel benefits from being so close to everything, yet offers a comfortable break from city life

dublin: Big fires, warm welcome and an alluring presence

King of the castles  natalie burke

The nyma hotel is an ideal base to explore NYC

Get in shape with a boot camp retreat WITH the festive party season on the horizon, the beautiful Lisloughrey Lodge in County Mayo is running a pre-Christmas boot camp with TV fitness expert Karl Henry, to include luxurious accommodation, energetic fitness classes and specially-designed menus to promote health and well-being inside and out.

The boot camp will take place from Friday, November 23, until Monday, November 26, and includes three nights’ accommodation with breakfast, lunch and dinner, and two and a half days of boot camp, as well as a welcome dinner on the evening of arrival.

With menus carefully planned by Henry, alongside head chef Jonathan Keane, who was recently nominated for Best Chef in Connacht, the latest package is ideal for an end-of-year break for those hoping to get in shape for Christmas.

The pre-Christmas package is available for €395pps. Places are limited so, to book your place, call 094 954 5400, or see www. lisloughreylodge.com.

THERE’S been a recent upsurge of the popular “weekend away”, but that doesn’t necessarily involve taking a short flight, as people, instead, reap the benefits of holidaying in our own fair isle.

But, before you start preparing your playlist for the inevitable crosscountry road-trip, perhaps taking a glance at what sits on your own doorstep could be the break that surprises you the most.

Clontar f Castle is already a popular choice for tourists making Dublin a must-see destination.

It has character, a certain historic allure, and wideopen fires as well as real Irish charm.

The fact that it’s just two miles from the city centre is really the icing on the cake, with the castle located in a calm spot, and within walking distance of historic sites.

For the rest of us, living blissfully oblivious to the world surrounding us, this traditional castle could be the perfect passage to times gone by.

Beneath the 12th century turreted roof, and beyond the stained-glass windows, lies a castle still clinging to its traditional past.

The castle’s self-description illustrates it is “no longer the past, not quite the future”, and, despite a recent redesign, boasts more old than new in its blend of modern meets yesteryear.

For one evening, I travelled back in time when Clontarf Castle hosted a modern-day “grand feast”.

A banquet table stretched the length of the hotel’s main restaurant, the Fahrenheit Grill, where flags draped the walls and high-backed chairs sat around the table’s distinct centrepiece: a roasted pig.

The dining room was

packed with character, where the order of the day was much more than the lively conversation and atmospheric surroundings, but focused on the culinary talents of the Fahrenheit Grill chef.

The appetisers boasted crisp pancetta ham, terrine of duck, and herbcured salmon, while the chef ensured there was something to tempt everyone’s taste with an impressive selection of main courses; a citruscrusted roast Atlantic cod; a char-grilled rack of Wicklow lamb; a serrano-wrapped Irish pork fillet, and a roast orange tea supreme of Irish chicken.

Following a tasting of the chef’s choice dessert plate, the guests of honour were summoned for after-dinner drinks at the hotel’s Indigo bar, where an open-fire welcomed us to relax and chat following the meal.

While the hotel still

Clontarf Castle Hotel has the wow factor, successfully marrying modern touches with its rich heritage

holds firm its own traditions, its warm welcome, attentive service and innovative menus are a gentle reminder that the four-star hotel has no

hesitation when it comes to keeping up with the times.

For further information on the hotel, see www. clontarfcastle.ie.

15 November 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 25

GazetteReaderSurvey

T ell us what yo u think ...

1 2 3 4

Age: Sex : Marital Status: How many children do you have?

under18 Male Single None

5

Do you regularly read newspapers?

Yes

If so, how often do you read the newspapers during the week?

Once

If not, why don’t you read newspapers? Because of....

Radio

6

Do any other members of your household also read a paper?

Yes

No

7

Do you pick up your local Gazette every week?

Yes

No

8

How long do you keep the Gazette for each week?

1 day

2 days

9

What edition of the Gazette do you pick up every week?

Blanch Castleknock Swords

10

Where do you usually pick up your copy of the Gazette?

Local Shop Local Supermarket Local Sports Club

11 Please rate the following sections of the paper?

News Like Dont Know Dislike Sport Like Dont Know Dislike Features Like Dont Know Dislike Beauty Like Dont Know Dislike Travel Like Dont Know Dislike Music Like Dont Know Dislike

18-25 Female Married 1 2

26-35

36-45

Separated 3 More

Divorced

3-4

4-5

Internet

55+

Co-habiting

W in !

No

2-3

Malahide

TV

More

Dundrum

Dun Laoghaire

Other:__________________________

Dont Know Dont Know Dont Know Dont Know Dont Know

Dislike Dislike Dislike Dislike Dislike

12

What element of the front page makes you pick up the paper each week?

Lead story Lead Photo Sports stories Features

13

14

Do you know that photos from the paper are available to buy from the www.gazettephotos.com?

Did not know Would you consider purchasing: Yes Did know

No

15

What other local newspapers do you read?

The Echo Northside People Southside People

Fingal Independent

16

Do you find the Gazette a good source of local advertising?

Yes

17

How much does the advertising in the paper make you want to contact the advertiser or purchase their products?

Not at all I might do It would remind me to I would definitely

18

Do you holiday in Ireland or abroad? How often each year?

Ireland: Never Once Twice Abroad: Never Once Twice

19

How often do you eat out a month? Never

20

What car do you drive? _______________________________________________________________

What new sections or features would you like to see included in the paper?

Health Recipes Gardening Readers Letters

6-7

Mobile Internet

3 days

Clondakin

Local School

Like Like Like Like Like

5-6

Sometimes

Lucan

Property Motoring Cinema Technology Competitions

46-55

. . A nd

Competitions

Agony Aunt

Habit

Puzzles/Games

Other:______________________

Liffey Champion

Other:______________________

No

More More

Once

Twice

More

Name:_____________________________________________________ ____________________Contact Number:_________________________________________ Email:___________________________________________________________Address:______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

to: Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Block 3A Millbank Business Pk, Lower Road, Lucan, Co Dublin Send

W I N : 2 Nights B &B for 2 Adults & 2 T ickets to see D es B ishop Live at the County Arms Hotel & L eisure Club Simply fill in our questonaiire & post back to the address above & you will be entred into a draw the win this fantastic price. Birr is your entertainment hub this November with great gigs from international stars. The 4* County Arms Hotel plays host to folk legends The High Kings on November 22nd and on November 30th, it’s the turn of Ireland’s favourite comic, Des Bishop. For further information on the County Arms Hotel visit www.countyarmshotel.com

26 Dun laoghaire gazette 15 November 2012

dun LaoghaireCLASSIFIEDS

Accountants

Dental

Windows

DVD services

DVD TRANSFERS Cinefilms,Photos and Slides transferred to DVD with Music and Titles added. Camcorder and Videotapes edited and transferred to DVD. Phone 01-2807838 Mobile 087-9132265 Email: alleventsvideo@eircom.net

House services

Bathrooms

Health & Well being

HANDYMAN SERVICES Gutters cleaned inside and out €30. Power washing services available for Driveways, Roofs, Walls and Houses. Small Gutter and roof repairs carried out. Painting and decorating also.

Call Jim 085 8202238

We have 135,000* readers each week *based on standard industry measurements

FOR ALL YOUR FENCING REQUIREMENTS SUPPLIED AND FITTED IN TIMBER AND PVC CON CONTACT DALY FENCING ON [087] 7651272 C2 REG.

GOOD RELIABLE BUILDER AVAILABLE House Services

Religious talks

INVITATION TO BIBLE TALKS Every Sunday 7pm - 8pm in Faughs GAA Club Wellington Lane, Templeogue, Dublin 6W ALL ARE WELCOME AL (Talks are free and non-demoninational) Tel: 087 752 5214

BRICK,BLOCK AND STONEWORK 20 years experience, living locally.

Garden walls, sheds, brick piers, patio & paving. Decorative internal brick work, Plastering, Concrete Drives and paths.

New Builds.

Insurance quotes.

Call Dave anytime 0872917647

ELECTRICIAN RECI Paul Mc Mahon Electrical House Re- Wiring to the higest standard. Immersions Heaters, Timers, Security Lighting installed, Showers supplied.

ESTIM FREE ESTIMATES New fuse boards to replace old and upgrades All work Guaranteed.

FULLY INSURED Est 1972 Southside 087-2663750 or 2806592

for house extensions, renovations, plastering, insulation and drylining, blocklaying, paving.

Call 087 7541613 JT PLUMBING

BEST PRICES IN DUBLIN!!

All areas covered. 15 years experience. Free estimates.

OUTSIDE TAP SUPPLIED & FITTED €70 Water Tanks, Drippings Taps, Radiators, Burst pipes, Cylinders, Pumps, Outside Taps, Showers, Immersions, Bathroom Suites.

For your free estimate call now on 085 7555412 or email: mjrules44@gmail.com

TOP CLASS PROFESSIONAL PAINTING Interior & Exterior, Damaged Ceilings, Walls Repaired

FREE ESTIMATES Fully Insured

Call Colm 01 457 0829 087 970 0259

advertise your business to our readers call 60 10 240

15 November 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 27

gaelic games P31

asdfsdafP29 P27 motorsport

dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community



Gazette

boxing P28

FastSport Taggers open to new members:

Members from local sports around the Lucan area and members of the Liffey Sound team pose for a photo at their Talking Sport launch night

community radio: quality programming delivers listeners, says mark sheridan

Liffey Sound launch sports schedule for local listeners LIFFEY Sound 96.4FM launched their sports schedule last week at their base in Ballyowen with a well-received meet and greet session with many local clubs on hand.

It served make those clubs aware of the community station that now provides six hours of sports broadcasting each week, feeding into the weekly Talking Sport that runs from 4-6pm every Saturday.

For the show’s Mark Sheridan, it offered a great opportunity to bring together the clubs around west Dublin a

chance, he told GazetteSport.

“The population around Lucan is such, now, that there are so many sports organisations. For example, there was someone from the Westmansown bowling club which I didn’t know existed until this week. It’s fantastic.

“We love our sport in Liffey Sound.

We cover all sorts of things because of the amount of sporting organisations in Lucan and the amount of people who love sport.”

Like many of the other panellists and presenters on the show, Sheridan

brings with him a wealth of sporting background. Previously, he lined out for Beech Park for a number of years while he has returned to the GAA with Lucan Sarsfields’ O-35s team, competed in a couple of marathons and also taken on a white collar boxing challenge.

“I love getting behind that mic [to talk about sport] and expressing my view and having people responding and texting in.

It’s a great avenue and once it gets into your blood, it sticks with you.”

Talking Sport has recently linked up with Boyle Sports to provide expert

betting advice while also offering charity bets for the show each week to add to their portfolio, a significant step for Sheridan and his team.

He has been with the station, which was founded in 2006, for three years and is proud of what has developed on a fully voluntary basis across the board.

“We have the second biggest listenership and the biggest English-speaking station in Dublin. “Maybe it’s our diaspora or the demographics in the area but I like to think it’s down to the quality of the programming.”

WESTMANSTOWN Taggers Special Olympics tag rugby team are welcoming new members to get involved with the club.

They meet up every Sunday at 11.30am until 1pm in the Westmanstown sports centre with training taking place indoors for the winter.

Leinster scrum-half Isaac Boss is among the regular coaches along with Jorge Zulkouski who can be contacted on 087 284 2584 for more information. The sport is open for those aged seven and upwards.

Currently, the side is building toward a showcase during the half-time show of Leinster’s Heineken Cup tie against Clermont Auvergne in the Aviva Stadium in December.

c o n ta c t s Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@gazettegroup.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6205

Gazette

28 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 15 November 2012

SPORT

FastSport LUCAN leisure centre gets top award: FINNSTOWN Country House Hotel Leisure Club, Lucan was recently rewarded the 2012 White Flag Excellence Award at the prestigious White Flag Gala Awards Dinner held in the Heritage Golf and Spa Resort, Killenard, Co Laois achieving the bronze standard.

The White Flag award is an indication of excellence in the operation of leisure clubs; the award was presented

by Barry Walsh president of ILAM at a special awards ceremony. ILAM is the professional body representing the Irish leisure industry.

Ninety-one facilities entered this gruelling auditing process this year but only 86 received the White Flag Excellence 2012 award.

This mark of excellence ensures that the facility management have been independently assessed in the three key areas of safety, hygiene and customer service.

boxing: dundrum writer says taylor to retain amateur status

Myler launches new book  sport@gazettegroup.com

THOMAS Myler says he would be “astonished” if Katie Taylor were ever to turn professional due to the currently limited options for professional female boxers.

Speaking to GazetteSport about his new book, Ringside with the Celtic Warriors, the Dundrum resident said that with the current supports in place for Ireland’s golden girl, the background is there for her to stay in amateur boxing and take a shot at defending her Olympic title.

“Katie gets €40,000 a year and then endorses a lot of products – cars, sportswear and lucozade and other things like this,” he said.

“I’d be astonished if she turns pro. Women’s [professional] boxing is not very prominent in the world and there aren’t that many opportunities in the pros. As a man, yes, but there would be very limited opportunities for her to make progress, unfortunately.”

Indeed, the ability for amateur boxers to financially support themselves is a theme that spreads to the men’s game, too, with the development of the World Series of Boxing.

The competition allows boxers to retain amateur status but compete for financial incentives while not wearing headguards as required in the past.

“There was talk of Katie Taylor turning pro and then there was John Joe

Nevin, bouncing one way and another and joining up with Amir Khan.

“With the world series, they can have the best of both worlds and this could affect the pro game because people can get confused.

“Is he an amateur or professional? I don’t like the trend really. I’m a bit of a traditionalist and prefer amateurs as amateurs and pros as pros.

“These guys are going to be semi-pro in the Olympics which is basically meant to be an amateur set-up.”

Nonetheless, these boxers are well up there in the pantheon of greats that Myler chronicles in his latest book, one which traverses 200 years. It goes right back to the 1800s

Katie Taylor with Amy Farrell, age 13, from Swords, Dublin last Saturday

and Dublin boxer Dan Donnelly whose arm is still preserved in Kildare.

He started writing formally for the Evening Herald way back in 1967and has not stopped since.

From that vantage point, he got to witness many Irish greats who became the focus of this book from Jack Doyle through to Steve Collins and Barry McGuigan and subsequently Bernard Dunne.

Being so close to the action, Myler admits this book was his “favourite”

of the four he has written to date.

“I’ve written a few books on boxing, one on Sugar Ray Robinson, one on the great boxing upsets and another on the scandals, boxing’s hall of shame on general themes. But this is the first I’ve done on Irish boxing which would be my favourite because all the guys would be ones I knew and saw.”

When pushed for a favourite of all-time, he said he was fascinated by Jack Doyle, the Cork heavyweight of the 1930s.

But Steve Collins stood out as probably the island’s best ever.

“Collins was a good, gritty tough guy who could give it and take it.

He was one of the best.

It’s a pretty difficult thing to answer because the old-timers of the 1930s and 1940s were of a different era.

“There are more facilities for boxers to train, they have nutritionists and everything else so it’s different scene. But Collins might have been the best.”

DLR side make Waves with historic first win  sport@gazettegroup.com

The DLR Waves had a memorable weekend in the Women’s National League

HISTORY was made at Jackson Park as a rapidly improving DLR Waves claimed their first ever triumph in the Bus Eireann Women’s National League.

Inspired by Carla Moran DLR Waves, who had suffered five losses so far in the season, were eager to deliver a polished performance. That is exactly what they did against a Cork Women’s outfit, who actually took the lead in the 36th minute courtesy of a

Claire Shine goal.

Sylvia Gee equalised with her third in six matches and then Moran took centre stage after the restart as DLR Waves dominated.

In the 55th minute Moran edged DLR Waves in front and then she netted the insurance goal with eight minutes remaining.

Peamount United, meanwhile, maintained their blistering form with an emphatic 9-2 success over Shamrock Rovers at Greenogue.

The free scoring table top-

pers summoned a remarkable attacking display in the second period to blitz Rovers.

Stephanie Roche grabbed a brace in the first half as Peamount left at the interval protecting a two goal cushion.

That was halved within 90 seconds of the restart when the excellent Rachel Jenkins gave Rovers some hope, but Peamount were quickly back in the ascendancy.

Sara Lawlor amazingly scored a hat-trick inside six glorious minutes as Peamount

contributed to a splendid encounter.

Julie Anne Russell, sister of St Patrick’s Athletic star John, got in on the act with a 63rd minute goal and Lawlor took her afternoon’s tally to four on 74.

A minute later Russell was on target again and five minutes from time Jennifer Ferrari decorated the win with a neat goal.

Jenkins poked a late consolation for Rovers, who were soundly beaten by the current standard bearers, Peamount.

15 November 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 29

Gazette

Butler hoping to set English scene alight Churchtown biker Dave Butler hopes to keep the good times rolling by stepping up to the British Thundersport championship after a stellar performance in Ireland AFTER a life already devoted to motorsports, Churchtown man Dave Butler is hoping to make the biggest step of his career in 2013 by pursuing a move to compete in the British Thundersport series, a competition scaling 10 rounds of some of the best circuits in the world.

It comes following a stellar 2012 in which he won no less than four separate Irish championship titles as well as a second and two third place finishes.

In total, he recorded 19 wins from 43 races, setting a number of lap records on courses throughout Ireland

 stephen findlater sport@gazettegroup.com

along the way.

Despite making his debut on the Irish motorcycling scene in 2003, the past year has been the first in which wo r k c o m m i t m e n t s have allowed him to fully focus on the sport with immaculate results both on the track and on the road.

Riding a 650cc Stocktwin, he claimed the Irish/Ulster and Southern Ireland title with a

massive 15 wins while adding third in the Irish Supertwin championship.

Switching to the road for the first time last July, he secured victory at the first time of asking before making a maiden voyage to England to Mallory Park in late October.

Competing in the m i n i t w i n cl a s s , h e claimed three of the four races he entered – all televised on Motors TV – something that has whetted his appetite to try and raise his level further and contest a full season across the water.

Speaking to GazetteSport, he said pursuing

this elevated challenge is something that has been in the genes since his earliest memories.

“I’ve been around the sport all my life. My uncle still races and this year he sponsored me the bike.

“I’ve been mechanic

raced cars when I was a baby but I’ve kind of surpassed what they have done.

“Next year, I’m going to try and race in England and am trying to raise the money to do that.

“It will cost a for-

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

‘This year has been a dream, bascially achieving everything I can on a bike in Ireland. I’d like to continue that in England’ - Dave Butler

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

for him, following him all over the country, getting to know the ins and outs. My father

Champion rider Dave Butler celebrates success on the road during the summer Picture: Ryan Fegan

tune to do that as it’s something of a full-time hobby. Basically, I probably need to raise about €10,000.”

But he says that pushing these new horizons could lead to even further honours: “This year was a dream.

“It was always my dream to win an Irish championship but basically I’ve achieved everything I can on my current bike over here.

“I’d like to continue it on in England where many have gone on to be future world champions.

“The two who finished ahead of me in the supertwin championship [in Ireland] will go on to be British champions at some stage and they will probably race in the world championship in the future.”

FastSport

Celtic Clovers launch the new ice hockey season THE Celtic Clovers will be hosting a launch event for their ice hockey club in Castleknock On Ice on Thursday, November 22 with festivities getting under way at 7pm.

At the event, the club will showcase their junior section, the Dublin Ducks, as well as their senior team who will display their skills and drills.

Around the rink, a raffle will be run while there will also be chuck-a-puck games, making for a great family evening out. All are welcome to come along on the evening. For more information, contact club PRO Jamie Hickey on jamiehickey@gmail.com

Blues and Nix lead LSL bid BLUEBELL United and Phoenix will be hoping to hold up the local LSL Sunday Senior involvement in the FAI intermediate cup but they face tricky ties in round three of the competition, due to be played on December 2.

Harry Kenny’s Nix will be pleased, though, to have avoided the trip to Swilly Rovers, the draw handing them home advantage at Scribblestown for the game. Bluebell, however, make the long trip south to Douglas Hall in round three.

The early phases of the competition had obliterated clubs from the top level of intermediate football

in Leinster but there still remains plenty of local interest.

Glenville, currently topping Sunday 1A, bring Leeside up to Palmerstown as they bid to recreate the buzz that brought them all the way to a senior cup date with Bohemians a couple of years ago.

TEK United have a big ask ahead of them if they are to surprise Tolka Rovers as do Pegasus St James’s Athletic.

The recently amalgamated third tier side have lost just once this term but a trip to College Corinthians in Cork looks a daunting one.

The finalists for the last two years, Cherry Orchard and Avondale United, have been drawn against each other in the tie of the round.

Gazette

30 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 15 November 2012

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: oatfield made to pay penalty in LFA junior cup

Monkstown on right track after Railway Union win MONKSTOWN hockey club will be hoping to end their 99-year wait for success in the men’s Irish Senior Cup competition when they came from 2-1 down to see off Railway Union to make it through to their fourth semi-finals in six years when they ended up 4-2 winners at Rathdown last Saturday.

Stephen Cole got them off to a decent start from the penalty spot when Frank Ryan was felled when past Stephen O’Keeffe. But Fiachra Maher and Simon Pearson turned the tie around in jig-time during a four minute spell.

Runar O’Moore, however, applied a deft finish to level the game up at 2-2 at the half-time interval.

But the Town closed out the tie stronger with Gareth Watkins applying a backhand flick to Lee Cole’s cross to put the Town in front. And Andrew Ward extended the margin between the sides with 18 minutes to go off the back of Watkins’ initial shot.

The draw for the next round of the competition will take place in early 2013, with the semifinals set for the weekend of March 23 and 24 at the National Hockey Stadium in Belfield.

Also through are south Dublin rivals Three Rock Rovers and Pembroke as well as Ulster’s sole remaining representative, Co Down’s Banbridge.

In the women’s game, Laura Pinder’s hattrick helped Hermes strengthen their place in the top five of Leinster’s division one as they beat Corinthian 3-0.

It places a six point gap between separating the IHL places from those hoping to avoid the relegation battle with Hermes in the former camp.

The young striker got her first barely 50 seconds into the game from a fine move and duly added two more goals from a pair of carboncopy penalty corners in the second half at the right post.

Corinthian’s hopes were hampered by Sinead Connery’s hamstring injury that limited her involvement, though Aine Connery was a lively threat for much of the game.

At the far end, Siobhan Burke pulled off a number of big saves to keep the reds in contention before Pinder’s double after the break killed off the game.

Broadford Rovers’ manager Harry Fox conducts the half-time team talk with his side last Saturday evening

Broadford power home lfa junior cup Broadford Rovers Oatfield  carl duffy

3 2

sport@gazettegroup.com

PAUL Connolly and Jay Gaffney’s second half strikes proved to be decisive as they handed Broadford Rovers a hard fought victory over Oatfield in the LFA Junior cup last Saturday evening.

The home side started the game brightly and took a deserved lead five minutes in when Rovers captain Alan Ward played a one two pass with Connolly, whose precise pass, cut through the Oatfield

defence and allowed midfielder Greg Brophy to score the game’s opening goal.

Rovers thought they doubled their lead shortly after when Gaffney controlled the ball superbly around Oatfield keeper Ross Costigan only for the goal to be disallowed for offside.

However the visitors fought back with right winger Brian Ellis playing an instrumental part. His pace and pinpoint accurate crosses providing several goal scoring chances for Derek McDonald who was cruelly denied a goal by the crossbar on one

south africa visit Springboks enjoy stay at Fitzpatrick Hotel South Africa’s rugby team posed for a photo with members of staff at the Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel in Killiney last Sunday morning.

The Springboks stayed at the hotel throughout their week in Ireland surrounding their international test match against Ireland last Saturday evening, in which they ran up a 16-12 victory at the Aviva Stadium.

occasion.

A pair of injuries to defenders Paul Oates and Dave Ryan coupled with relentless pressure from Oatfield led to the game’s equalising goal.

With Broadford manager Henry Fox being forced to make a defensive shuffle twice within the space of five minutes, Ellis reacted the quickest to a loose ball inside the opposition box and was subsequently brought down for a penalty.

McDonald did not let his early missed chances faze him as he stepped up to the spot kick which he struck confidently down

the middle, sending keeper Craig Deegan the wrong way and making it level at half time.

The Clondalkin outfit looked most likely to score their second goal following the restart but were unable to capitalise on their good spell of play with Shane Duren and Derek Clarke being particular stand outs.

However Rovers were awarded the game’s second penalty kick after Connolly was brought down by Costigan following a quick counter attack.

Connolly had the opportunity to put his team in front and did not let the

pressure show as he slotted home expertly to put his side in front.

Gaffney got the game’s winning goal when he followed up Connolly’s shot from the edge of the box which struck the post and came out only as far as the six yard which he did brilliantly to plant into the roof of the net to much home delight.

Clarke scored a late consolation goal for his side but Broadford held on to progress to the second round which manager Harry Fox feels is “good opportunity for his young side” to gain valuable match experience.

15 November 2012 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 31

Gazette

Kilmacud and Cuala boss Stars wars Club Noticeboard  sport@gazettegroup.com

FOLLOWING their runs to the Dublin senior hurling championship final, Kilmacud Crokes and Cuala have been rewarded with a wealth of nominees in the nominations for the annual Blue Stars.

The list celebrates the top performers in the county championship

and champions Crokes are suitably well represented with 12 players named.

Matt Collins is in the running for the number one jersey after an immaculate season with his form carrying through to the Leinster championship in which he made two cracking saves against Oulart-the-Ballagh.

Niall Corcoran, Jack Doughan and Ronan Walsh are all in the fullback nominees while dual-star Rory O’Carroll, Bill O’Carroll and Rob O’Loughlin are up for the half-back line nod.

They are in good company there with Cuala trio Oisin Gough, Conor Gough and Sean Moran.

In midfield, Kilma-

cud’s Conor Clinton and Dillon Mulligan aare named while the halfforwards include Kevin O’Loughlin and skipper Ross O’Carroll with Cuala’s Barry Connolly.

Up top, Sean McGrath, and Cuala trio David Treacy, Mark Schutte and Cian Waldron are among the hopefuls for the annual team.

camogie: dalkey club enjoys famous weekend

CUALA WHAT a weekend it was for our cam-

Spillane, Jack Lahert, Gavin Hart-

ogie teams with not one, not two, but

nett, James Baily and Dara Collopy

three titles secured over Saturday

who have all represented Dublin in

and Sunday.

recent weeks at U-13, U-14 and U-15

First up was the U-14s who landed the division two championship final against a strong Oliver Plunkett’s side on Saturday.

football in wins over Waterford, Louth, Meath and Kildare.

Thanks to all those fine professional and amateur builders and

That was quickly followed by the

their supporters who made last

U-16s conf irming their division

week’s work parties in and around

three league title.

the hall such a resounding success.

Then, on Sunday morning, the U-13s

Well done to our nine senior hurl-

completed a magical hat trick by

ers nominated for Blue Star awards.

beating Ballyboden to secure their

The ceremony takes place at the Red

league title. Brilliant stuff from a

Cow Hotel this Friday, November 16.

very dedicated group of teams.

Well done Cathy Brock from our

The focus this week returns to our

minor footballers who was named

senior footballer’s odyssey through

as player of the month in the Evening

Leinster. Wins over the champions of

Herald last week.

Longford and Wicklow have brought us to a semi-final against Monaster-

Great recognition for a fine player in a fine group.

evin of Kildare next weekend. All the

AGM season is in full swing. The

details will be on the club website

juvenile boys will be on November,

www.cualagaa.ie or you can follow

Thursday 15, minors on Monday,

the build up and even the game itself

November 19 and adults provision-

through Facebook and Twitter.

ally on Wednesday, November 21.

Co n g r atul ati o n s t o D i a r mui d

There will be two more CPR cours-

O’Fl o in n , Co r m a c Q u i n n , Ma r k

es at the club on November 18 and 25.

Tr a c ey, Ro r y McMa h o n , Fi o n n

Please contact Zita on 087 2235677 if

O’Drisceoil, Jack Hartnett, Dara

you would like to attend.

NAOMH OLAF Cuala’s U-14 side claimed the division two championship in the Phoenix Park last weekend

Magical three titles for Cuala camogie  sport@gazettegroup.com

CUALA’S camogie starlets produced a weekend to remember as Super Saturday yielded a pair of titles in quick succession before Sunday saw the U-13 side complete a hat -trick of silverware when they beat Ballyboden St Enda’s to the league crown.

First on the golden path were the U-14s who landed the division two championship against a strong St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh side in the Phoenix Park, quickly followed by the U-16s confirming their

Division 3 league title in Meadowvale.

The wins are two more important milestones for the resurgence of camogie in Cuala with the U-16 win the first title for the side after many years’ hard work, a win dedicated to Fintan Quill who has been the spiritual leader for this team since their academy days.

For the U-14s, they got the better of Plunkett’s 3-4 to 1-4 having played out a ding-dong battle on a sticky surface on the Army Grounds.

The teams exchanged early points with a Sinead Murphy free for Cuala

before Plunketts fired home the first goal and a point for a four-point lead.

Clodagh Sheehan in goal then pulled off a superb reflex save to deny Plunkett’s a further goal and it proved a spur for the Dalkey club’s response.

Driven from the back by strong and determined defending and crisp long striking from Catherine Garner and Blaithin Lane, they launched a wave of attacks one of which ended up with a finely taken Murphy goal.

Another big ball forward also found its way in as Amy Donnelly or Keela

Sexton applied pressure to make it 2-2 to 1-2 at the break. Another Murphy score and a superb solo effort from Hannah O’Dea, who carried and struck on the move from a distance extended the margin only for Plunkett’s to reel in the gap to three points.

Sorcha Barron, though, struck home a ferocious third goal to confirm the victory with five minutes to go.

It kick-started a fine weekend with the U-16s and U-13s following suit to secure three pieces of silverware for the Hyde Road club.

NAOMH Olaf had three very impressive

and almost won, going a point in front

wins this weekend in U-21, minor foot-

in the final minute.

ball and U-13 hurling.

Olaf’s were not going to be denied

The U-21 footballers had a convinc-

and scored an equaliser on the stroke

ing win over De La Salle/Ballyfermot

of full-time. In extra-time, Olaf’s took

and won decisively on a final score of

some great points and outscored Fin-

2-27 to 0-3.

gallians by 0-5 to 0-2 in the extra 20

Our minor footballers did not have it

minutes leaving the final score Olaf’s

easy against a very strong Parnell’s

0-15 Fingallians 2-6. Well done to all our

Sunday. Olaf’s led by six points midway

underage footballers and hurlers and

through the second half but Parnell’s

their mentors.

scored two goals to even it up.

The AGM took place on November

However, Olaf’s scored a decisive

7. Details of the new committee are

match winning goal to secure a place

under club news on naomholaf .ie. The

in the semi-final with a final score 2-7

hurling wall is progressing well and

to 2-4.

will be completed within the next few

Olaf’s faced Fingallians at Pairc Ui

weeks.

Bhriain in second place play on Sat-

Don’t forget the poker classic takes

urday and picked off scores without

place on November 17. Details also on

reply to lead by six points at half-time.

naomholaf.ie. Lotto: no winner, num-

But Fingallians clawed their way back

bers drawn were 6, 12 and 20.

BALLINTEER ST JOHN’S THERE was no winner of the Thursda y, November 8 lotto draw of €4,400.

Nex t week’s dr aw will be for €4,600.

Well done to the U-21 footballers on a great win over Naomh Barrog in the championship.

The next round is in two weeks

against St Brigid’s.

Well done to the minor ladies footballers and management on a fantastic team performance in winning their championship final on Saturday against Foxrock/Cabinteely.

Thanks to all who travelled to support the girls on the day, and to their families.

GazetteSPORT all of your DUN LAOGHAIRE sports coverage from page 27-31

treble triumph: Cuala camogie youngsters claim trio of titles on memorable weekend for the club P31

november 15, 2012

Butler’s flying 2012 form: Dubliner looking to challenge best in England next year P29

Goldrick’s ‘surprise’ All-Star award  peter carroll

sport@gazettegroup.com

IN A season punctuated by club and individual honours, Dublin’s lone All-Star in the Ladies XV, Sinead Goldrick confessed she was “quite shocked” to be announced among the nominees for the prestigious award and even more so to make the shortlist for the ladies football senior player of the year.

“I was quite shocked when my name was announced,” said the Dubs starlet.

“I couldn’t believe I had been announced alongside seven-time All-Star winners like Briege Cork-

ery and Geraldine O’Flynn.

“W hen my name was announced for the All-Star it was a huge surprise. I honestly didn’t expect it, it was a great honour,” said Goldrick.

For the modest midfielder, the biggest honour of the year was the Dublin club championship with Foxrock Cabinteely, insisting that it is always the team, whether it’s for club or county, that matters when it comes to success.

“Winning the Dublin championship with girls I have grown up playing with was probably the proudest moment of my life.

“It was just one of those days that everything went right and

every player played brilliantly; it all just came together on the day.

“Making it to the Leinster final was another great moment, but that loss is one that we’re all still feeling at the club.

“It was very disappointing but we’ve all learned from it and we won’t be so naïve the next time,” said the All-Star.

With Foxrock Cabinteely being one of the younger teams on the club scene, the achievement of claiming the Dublin championship was a massive one, and Goldrick believes that they can go onto many more.

However, the grounded talent refuses to believe that she is a

role model for the younger ranks at the club, insisting the senior side is a hot bed of talent where any player can stand out on any given day.

“When I started at the club there was no senior team here, so I think it will help the younger girls to have a goal to get onto the senior side and push for more championships.

“I really don’t think of myself as a role model, it’s great that the younger girls come down to watch our games, but I’m sure they would agree that in every single match there are a number of players that stand out,” she said.

Foxrock Cabinteely’s Sinead Goldrick