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Blackrock • Cornelscourt • Deansgrange • Dalkey • Glasthule • Monkstown • Glenageary

INSIDE: Actress Amy Huberman is calling on students to get involved in annual drama awards See P14

what’s the craic, mack? Theatre legend Michael Ball returning to Dublin Page 16

A sweet idea: Having a cuppa to help hospices Hurling:

Kilmacud SHC title rein comes to an end Page 31

ORNA Cummins, Debbie Marsden,

Angela Boylan, Maria Chiuulesco and Pat Whittle were happy to play their part recently at Blackrock Hospice in supporting Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning, in aid of the Irish Hospice Foundation, supported by Bewleys.

The annual fundraising for the foundation saw thousands of get-togethers held across the country, while closer to home businesswoman Norah Casey was a guest speaker at the hospice, where she spoke about her husband’s time there, and the care he received.

Picture: Geraldine Woods

Soccer:

Joey’s take on elite clubs in Madrid test Page 30

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ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES..................... 10 DUBLIN LIFE................... 13 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................28

Stubbs threat sparks major business row Debt letters from BID a source of contention among councillors, firms

 aisling kennedy

A ROW has erupted in Dun Laoghaire over debt collection letters that were issued to 200 local businesses by the Business Improvement District (BID) company.

BID also threatened local businesses with a listing in Stubbs Gazette if they failed to pay a levy to the company. At a special meeting convened by Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council, Cllr Michael Merrigan (Ind)

said the debt collection letters had caused upset in the town and he highlighted apparent inconsistencies in the numbers reported as having paid the levy.

Don McManus, chair of the BID company, said:

“The local authority have a different methodology to everybody else as to how they do their calculations, but what matters here is the total amount due, and the total sum paid.”

Full Story on Page 2

2 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 1 October 2015

enterprise Anger as action initiated over uncollected levy

200 businesses hit with debt letters  aisling kennedy

SOME 200 businesses in Dun Laoghaire have been issued with a letter from a debt collection agency threatening a listing in Stubbs Gazette because they have not paid the levy to the Business Improvement District (BID).

A special meeting was convened by the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council this week in an attempt to address an ongoing feud between Dun Laoghaire town’s BID and local businesses over a levy that is due to be paid.

The threat of a listing in Stubbs Gazette has caused particular upset in the town, as this would affect a business’s credit rating.

The BID levy is calculated as a percentage of the rates payable by businesses, with the majority paying less than €200.

The BID company came about in the spring of 2014 when the Dun Laoghaire Business Association proposed that all the businesses in the town join together to form a limited company.

The proposal meant that if the BID company was to be set up, a levy

would be imposed on all the local businesses in the area, and the money raised from the levy would then be invested back into the town to help promote it which, as a result, would benefit the businesses in the town.

At the time, all businesses in the town had a chance to vote, with the majority of businesses in the town voting for the BID to be set up.

At the special meeting in Dun Laoghaire this week, councillors agreed with 25 members voting in favour and seven against, on the motion that “the council request

the executive to urgently meet with the registered directors of the BID company to ascertain the current financial and governance situations; to obtain and circulate to the elected members a copy of the audited accounts to be submitted to the Companies Registration Office”.

It was also unanimously agreed to request the BID company to withdraw its instructions to Stubbs in relation to the BID levies.

Cllr Michael Merrigan (Ind) told The Gazette that the debt collection letters have caused a lot of upset in the town, and that the issue of inconsistencies in the numbers reported as having paid the BID levy should be called into question.

He said: “There’s huge anger in the town about this issue. The BID company should convene a special general meeting of all the registered levy-payers, irrespective of their current payment status, to decide on the future direction of the BID scheme as it is up to the business community itself to resolve this matter, or wind-up the BID company.”

He added that his main concern was “the accuracy of the public information issued on the BID levy payments”.

Cllr Merrigan said that he received figures from the finance department of the council showing that for 2014 a figure of 362 businesses out of 809 paid the levy, while in 2015 a figure of 392 businesses out of 811 paid it.

The Business Improvement District company was created in 2014 when Dun Laoghaire businesses voted to set it up. Part of its purpose is to collect a levy from members to reinvest in the town.

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‘What matters here is the total amount due, and the total sum paid. There’s money due and that’s it, and unfortunately it is out of our hands.’

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

Don McManus, chair, BID company

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A council spokesperson confirmed Cllr Merrigan’s figures, and added: “The issue of debt collection letters is a matter for the BID company, and not the council.”

In response to Cllr Merrigan’s comments, Don McManus, chair of the BID company, said: “This is very complicated. The total amount of money that is due for the two years, from 2014 to 2016, is €442,000, of which, to date, we have in our bank

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

€288,000. That’s to date – it depends on how you calculate it.

“The local authority have a different methodology to everybody else as to how they do their calculations, but what matters here is the total amount due, and the total sum paid. There’s money due and that’s it, and unfortunately it is out of our hands.”

Cllr John Bailey (FG), who raised the motion to call a special council meeting on the BID company controversy, said: “I think it is now time for the BID company and the executive to sit down and listen and get all sides to the table. The council had no hand, act or part in the

sending out of these letters.”

Other councillors who attended the special council meeting spoke against the use of Stubbs Gazette, but said they supported the work of the BID company.

Cllr Patricia Stewart (FG) said: “As the councillor nominated to the board of Dun Laoghaire BID, I have never worked with such a positive, creative, committed group of people, who give up their time voluntarily to serve on the board.

“Some businesses didn’t understand that, under law, they have to pay the BID levy, and I am sure that they will get more out of it than they realise.”

Cllr Mary Hanafin (FF) said: “The BID is an example of the local business doing it for themselves and they should be supported for this.”

She added: “Issuing the Stubbs threat was heavyhanded and damaging, and should not have happened.”

1 October 2015 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 3

politics Hanafin added to ticket despite defeat at Selection Convention

Devlin secures FF vote to contest seat  aisling kennedy

CLLR Cormac Devlin won the Fianna Fail Selection Convention this week for the Dun Laoghaire constituency but in an anticipated move Cllr Mary Hanafin was added to the ticket on Wednesday.

Cllr Devlin told The Gazette he was not surprised by the development.

Cllr Devlin won his slot at the convention by 68 votes to 64 in the second count, narrowly defeating Cllr Hanafin, who was ahead after the first count by 60 votes to 52.

Cllr Devlin benefited from the transfers from

the third candidate, Cllr Kate Feeney, who received 21 first-preference votes. Only four of her transfers went to Cllr Hanafin.

Following Cllr Hanafin’s defeat, she was subsequently added to the ticket as internal polling conducted

by Fianna Fail suggests she represents the best chance of the par ty retaking a seat in the constituency given her pedigree and her experience as a government minister.

Last year, in what was dubbed The Battle of Blackrock, Cllr Hanafin and Cllr Feeney battled to take a seat in the local elections.

Both women succeeded in taking seats in the area.

Cllr Devlin, who is currently serving his third successive term on Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, was delighted to win at the Selection Convention.

Of Cllr Hanafin’s addition, he said, “This decision dramatically reduces the chances of Fianna Fail securing a seat in Dun Laoghaire.”

‘No surprise’ “It’s no surprise to me that she was going to be on the ticket, there was a rumour that she was going to be added and so the decision has been

made by the National Constituencies Commission (NCC).

“I’ve worked with Mary for many years in particular her return to politics and local government in 2014 and I’ll continue to work with her as a colleague on the ticket here in Dun Laoghaire.

“I’ve always maintained that a one-candidate strategy is the optimum strategy, in fact all candidates, myself, Kate and Mary in advance of the convention always maintained that a one candidate strategy was t h e o p t i m u m s t r a tegy and I’m still of that view.

“That being said, we’re

Hozier’s guitar up for auction HOZIER has donated a signed guitar to Purple House, a cancer support group based in Dun Laoghaire.

The signed guitar, along with a signed copy of his debut album, Take Me To Church, will be put up for auction as part of Purple House’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

The organisation, which was founded in 1990, was the first community-based cancer support centre in Ireland and today helps more than 2,000 adults, children and families affected by cancer throughout Leinster.

Bids are now being accepted for the guitar, with a reserve set at €500.

To bid, email your bid and your contact details to info@purplehouse.ie.

Tickets are also on sale for the organisation’s 25th anniversary Purple Ball.

Tickets cost €45 and they are available to buy online at www.purplehouse.ie.

Cllr Cormac Devlin inched past Cllr Mary Hanafin at 68 votes to 64 in the second count to contest the party’s Dun Laoghaire seat in the next General Election

obviously going to work together to ensure that we get a FF seat in the constituency.

“Obviously we’re all

vying for the same vote but as somebody who is new and young and has never been on the General Election ticket

before, I’m confident that I will do very well in this upcoming election.

Cllr Hanafin was unavailable for comment.

4 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 1 October 2015

heritage Committee working to commemorate area’s involvement in 1916

Dun Laoghaire events to mark the Rising legacy  aisling kennedy

THE Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown 1916 Committee has a number of events taking place over the next few months in preparation for the 100-year anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising.

Some of the upcoming events include Padraig Yeates on Social Conditions in Kingstown and Dublin 1916, in the DLR LexIcon next January 14; Anne Matthews on Countess Markievicz, in Marlay House next January 21; and Angus Mitchell on Roger Casement,

in the DLR LexIcon next February 25.

A spokesperson for the committee said the group had established a Facebook page – DLR1916 – and said: “We are publishing a book on Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown and the 1916 Rising in November and

we are organising a series of lectures on most Thursdays from 7pm to 9pm about people living in or associated with Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown in 1916.”

The group are also in discussions with Irish Rail to have Dun Laoghaire train station

named after Michael Mallin, an Irish rebel and socialist who took an active role in the Rising.

They are also campaigning to have a statue of Roger Casement erected in Dun Laoghaire to ensure a lasting legacy is given to the 100th

anniversary of the Rising.

The Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown 1916 Committee holds its monthly meetings on the third Thursday of every month at 7.30pm in the Dun Laoghaire Club, Eblana Avenue, and everybody who would like to participate is welcome to attend.

Solo exhibition to focus on an abstract painting concept DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s arts office will present a solo exhibition of work that focuses on the space in between what defines painting and sculpture.

The exhibition of newly commissioned work by Susan Connolly, curated by Rowan Sexton, is the first in a new series of exhibition programmes for 2015-16 for the Municipal Gallery, DLR LexIcon in Dun Laoghaire.

Connolly’s work involves peeling and cutting back layers of paint from canvas, walls and miscellaneous structures.

She creates hybrids of two-dimensional paintings into three-dimensional

objects, through the use of appendages and the draping of paint which has been removed from its canvas support.

The exhibition, entitled over & over + over and over, takes into consideration how the viewer will be affected when encountering an artwork, and includes gallery tours as well as an opportunity to hear Connolly speak about her work.

There are also free creative workshops for children based on some of the materials that she uses in her exhibition.

The exhibition programme begins on Friday, October 2 and continues until Wednesday, November 11.

Cllr Victor Boyhan (Ind) asked the council a number of questions relating to the future of Abbey View House

monkstown: council asked to clarify status

Abbeyview House’s future questioned  aisling kennedy

A QUESTION about whether or not Abbey View House in Monkstown would be developed as a site for social housing was raised at this week’s Dun Laoghaire area committee meeting

by Cllr Victor Boyhan (Ind).

Cllr Boyhan asked if the chief executive of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council intended to release an “overall report on Abbey View House, Monkstown, within its ownership”, and asked the council to confirm if it is still the

position of the Department of Environment and Local Government not to directly fund the council to develop this site for social housing.

Cllr Boyhan also asked the chief executive to confirm “if Cluid, or any other housing association, has expressed an interest in developing the site and share their proposals with this committee”.

In response, a spokesperson for the council said: “Abbeyview House was transferred into the ownership of the council in June 2012. It was previously owned and

managed by a voluntary housing body, Stepping Stone.

“A significant deterioration in the fabric of this mid-19th century building had rendered it unfit for purpose, and it remains vacant.”

Funding T he spokesperson added: “The Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government (DOECLG) indicated that they would not be providing any further funding under the Capital Assistance Scheme for this house.

“The refurbishment of

Abbeyview House was the subject of an application for funding under a leasing and capital advance leasing facility proposal, which was submitted by Cluid Housing Association through the council.

“The proposal was approved by the DOECLG, but the housing association has since reviewed its refurbishment proposal and is now considering an alternative redevelopment proposal.

“Cluid are in discussion with the planning department about redevelopment options.”

1 October 2015 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 5

don’sdublin By endurance, a man called Shackleton conquered the world If ever a man lived up to his family motto then Ernest Shackleton is most definitely that man. The words

By Endurance We Conquer were borne out to the maximum as he led all his men to safety during the Antarctic expedition of 1914-17. It is a tale of unbelievable skill, bravery and determination that is considered one of the greatest achievements in exploration and well presented in the Endurance Exhibition in Dun Laoghaire.

Shackleton was born on February 15, 1874 in Kilkea, near Athy in County Kildare. His father, Henry, decided to study medicine in Trinity College and moved his family into 35 Marlborough Road, Ranelagh for four years from 1880-84. After graduation the family moved to Sydenham, south London where he practised medicine for more than 30 years.

Ernest went to school in Dulwich College, and joined the merchant navy when he was 16. He progressed quickly and in 1901 was invited by Captain Scott to travel aboard the Discovery to the Antarctic.

They failed to reach the South Pole, as did his own 1907-09 Nimrod expedition that got to within 97 miles of its goal.

On his return he received much public adulation and was knighted by Edward VII. He returned to Dublin and gave lectures in Earlsfort Terrace (now the National Concert Hall) and the Gresham Hotel.

For the 1914 expedition to cross the Antarctic, the team sailed in the Endurance on the day Germany declared war. As the ship approached the Antarctic it became frozen in the ice and was eventually crushed and lost. The team headed in three small boats to Elephant Island, and from there Shackleton and five others made the 800-mile journey in horrendous weather to South Georgia. The 17-day journey in an open 20-foot boat, the James Caird, and the safe return of the crew, was heroic and bordering on the miraculous. Endurance, indeed.

Don Cameron

www.donsdublin.wordpress.com

Ernest Shackleton: His Antarctic expedition of 1914-17 is a thrilling tale of unbelievable skill, bravery and determination

politics Journalist hopes to take seat in Dun Laoghaire

Carol Hunt to run as Independent  aisling kennedy

WELL -know n journalist Carol Hunt has announced her intention to run as an Independent candidate in Dun Laoghaire at the upcoming general election.

Hunt is running as part of the Independent Alliance group led by

Deputy Shane Ross.

She spoke to T he Gazette and said that the decision to go from writing about politics to standing as a candidate in the next election came as a result of a lack of women in government.

Hunt said: “I think this is going to be one of the

most important things that I do. I’m hoping there will be a tipping point in the next government for women, now that the gender quota system is being introduced, and that we will be better represented.”

She also explained her reasons for aligning herself with the Independ-

ent Alliance group.

“I’m very interested in what the Independent Alliance is doing. This has never been done before in Irish politics that we have a group which works together, but we have no whip.

“We debate and discuss things instead of just whipping people

into voting for legislation whether they agree with it or not. So, that is very exciting.

“If we can make an impact on Leinster House and the way politics is being carried out in Ireland, then that would certainly be something worth achieving,” she said.

6 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 1 October 2015

culture: top studios, animators featured in 2015 showcase

ecotherapy

Mental health awareness DLR Nature for Health Group is holding a twohour ecotherapy walk in the beautiful surroundings of Killiney Hill to celebrate World Mental Health Day on Saturday October 10.

The walk aims to promote awareness of the mental health benefits of contact with nature.

It will be a gentle guided walk, encouraging participants to connect with nature through their senses.

Recovery poetry and stories will also be read with tea and coffee served afterwards at Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel.

The walk is free of charge and everyone is welcome.

For booking and further details contact Shirley_ gleeson@hotmail.com

Animation festival set to draw you in  aisling kennedy

Grand opening: At the €9.5m Blackrock Further Education Institute campus THE official opening of the new €9.5m Blackrock Further Education Institute (BFEI) campus attracted many dignitaries to help mark the occasion. Cllr Pat Hand (FG), chairperson, Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board with colleague Paddy Lavelle, chief executive officer; Education and Skills Minister Jan O’Sullivan; Breda Lillis, deputy principal; Dr Justin Sinnott, chairperson, board of management; Lucy Tierney, deputy principal, and Deirdre Hanamy, principal were on hand for the official opening. The award-winning campus, funded by the Department of Education and Skills, will cater for more than 1,000 full-time and part-time students.

THE Dublin Animation Film Festival (DAFF) will take place this October 16 and 17 at the Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT).

The DAFF is an annual event that is designed to celebrate both national and international animators and is five years old this year.

The festival recently announced its programme of guest speakers, which include Michele Chiappa from Karrot Animation UK, Damien O’Connor from Brown Bag Films, Ian Mackinnon from Mackinnon and Saunders UK, Nelson Lowry from Laika Studios, Oregon,

and Tomm Moore from Cartoon Saloon, Kilkenny.

The first day of the festival will focus on both guest lectures and screenings at IADT, with the last day culminating in the DAFF 2015 awards ceremony, taking place at The Pavilion Theatre on October 17.

The festival is the brainchild of festival director Fionnghuala Ni Neill, who graduated with an MA in Film Studies from UCD in 2001.

With the support of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, the Local Enterprise Board, and armed with her passion for film, she started the first animation film festival in Blackrock

in 2011.

The festival received 45 entries, and was held in Blackrock until 2013.

The festival grew in size and popularity over the following years, which led Ni Neill to rebrand the festival as the Dublin Animation Film Festival in 2014.

The opening film of the new festival in 2014 was the Irish premiere of Cheatin by Academy Award nominee Bill Plympton at the Pavilion Theatre.

This year, the Dublin Animation Film Festival will show the screening of Tomm Moore’s Oscarnominated feature, Song of the Sea. For further information, see www. pavilliontheatre.ie.

1 October 2015 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 7

schools Monkstown transition year class collects goods

Students work hard for Calais refugees  aisling kennedy

A GROUP of transition year (TY) students from CBC Monkstown Park secondary school recently held a charity drive to collect clothes, medicines and toiletries for refugees in Calais.

The group of students held the charity drive in conjunction with the Dublin Calais Refugee Solidarity group, and collected a total of 150 bags of goods for refugees.

Neil Ferguson, transition year coordinator at CBC Monkstown, told The Gazette that he was delighted with the amount collected and

congratulated the students involved for doing great work.

He said: “We set up a drive for the CBC community, which included current pupils, past pupils, the parent council and businesses in the area. We sent out notifications on the CBC transition year Twitter account and the school website and got some of the boys to go around to local businesses as well to let them know about it.

“We gave people two weeks to organise themselves, and also gave people a list of things to bring us. We mainly needed men’s clothing

for people aged between 15 and up, and also clothes for adult men because there’s a lot of women’s things already over there. “ S o , [ we s o u g h t ] things like trousers, shirts, shoes, things like that. There’s also a need for some basic medicines and basic toiletries.”

Ferguson said that the two transition year classes got involved in the drive and up to 51 students in total came together to help.

In particular, six young students were the organisers and driving force behind the collection, and Ferguson praised them for their hard

work.

The six– Jordan Brophy, Calam Jones, C i a n B u t l e r, M a r k Nolan, James Ievers, and Stephen Browne – worked all through the day and late into the night on the last day to ensure that all 150 bags were packed and ready to be collected by Eoin Murphy, from Dublin Calais Refugee Solidarity.

Ferguson said that Murphy came in on the final day of the drive to speak to the students.

He said: “Eoin came in to see the boys and gave us a talk. He’s a former teacher himself and he gave an insight into how

Transition year students from CBC Monkstown Park secondary school have organised a charity drive to help refugees at Calais

he came up with the idea to organise drives over to Calais to help refugees.

“He wants to make a difference and I know he’s heading off in the next few days with all the bags and goods the school has collected.”

Ferguson said that the six transition year students who organised the drive want to become more involved and they will join Murphy in the city centre office where the Dublin Calais Refugee Solidarity group is

based over the next few months.

He added: “We’d like to organise another drive again soon, especially towards Christmas time, so we’ll probably look at doing something like that again then.”

8 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 1 October 2015

opinion Changing people’s behaviour and attitude

Industry steps up battle against gum By now you will have likely seen the blanket of advertising on the sides of buses, on billboards nationwide, at the train station or on the TV asking you to Bin Your Gum When You’re Done. You may well be asking who is behind it.

The answer is it is part of a wider campaign by the Gum Litter Taskforce (GLT); a body funded by the chewing gum industry and established within Ibec whose objective is changing people’s behaviour and attitude towards how they bin their gum.

Earlier this year the GLT e s t a b l i s h e d a

renewed agreement with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government which will see industry fund a national gum litter awareness programme from 2015 to 2017.

It represents a multimillion euro commitment by industry to tackle the issue. Bin Your Gum When You’re Done was then launched this month in a bid to encourage people to dispose of their gum in a responsible way in towns and cities throughout the country.

It is the latest in a series of campaigns which have been running since 2007.

It is proven to work as well. The campaigns have

seen significant results over a period of time with a drop in gum as a percentage of national litter from 26.37% in 2007 to 15.3% in 2014, according to the national litter pollution monitoring system.

According to research carried out by Millward Brown on behalf of the campaign, we’ve seen a continuation of the incremental year-on-year increase in the percentage of people who viewed dropped chewing gum as litter. The figure is now at an all-time high of 93%.

The results show the effectiveness of the campaign in changing consumer behaviour and encouraging people to

dispose of their gum responsibly. The results also demonstrate that education and awareness are a sustainable longterm means of tackling the issue.

Beyond the advertising elements of the campaign, the GLT also promotes a civic partnership element, including sponsorship of TidyTowns competition and An Taisce – Green Schools and National Spring Clean programmes.

A “Bin it!” educational workshop (aimed at 11- to 13-year-olds) has also been running for a number of years, with the addition this year of Bin it! Buddies which

Paul Kelly: “The GLT campaign is an excellent example of how the Government and the private sector can work together in partnership”

extends the reach of the programme to 14to 16-year-old students.

This includes an actorled workshop tour which takes place in schools each autumn and is supported by learning materials for teachers so they can integrate it into the school curriculum. We have reached more than 30,000 students since we started.

This isn’t an initiative just rolled out in the bigger cities, by working in partnership with local authorities throughout Ireland; we’re seeing the message go nationwide and achieving higher levels of engagement with the public.

The GLT campaign is an excellent example of how the Government and the private sector can

work together in partnership.

It’s hoped that the campaign over the next three years will continue to change people’s attitudes for the better and result in cleaner, gum-free cities and counties around nationwide.

Paul Kelly Gum Litter Taskforce

1 October 2015 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 9

charity Dalkey woman completes her own six-month challenge council Grant scheme now open

€10k raised for Mater Hospital A DA L K E Y wo m a n will finish a six-month fundraising drive for t h e M a t e r Ho s p i t a l Foundation this October in which she challenged herself to raise €10,000.

Karrie Hogan, who was diagnosed with breast cancer 10 years ago, organised at least one event every month for six months in order to reach her target amount, and she announced this month that she has exceeded her target of €10,000.

Hogan has currently raised €10,777 af ter stating that she would like to raise €1,000 for every year since she was diagnosed with cancer.

She said: “I had breast cancer 10 years ago and was out of work for 13 months with it. I

had surger y, chemo, radiation and ongoing hormone treatment for years.”

Hogan was diagnosed at the age of 34, and it was a double shock for her family as her mother had died from the same illness four years earlier.

She said: “It was a tough time. You lose your hair, your self-image, and I became quite introverted while on the treatment. At 34, I was told I could never have children and because of the hormone treatment, I suffered for years with endometriosis and had to have a hysterectomy.”

She has since recovered well, but she decided that she wanted to give something back to the hospital that treated

her.

“My father is 89 and has been in and out of hospital for a variety of illnesses for a number of years.

“Last year, he had colon surgery and what wo u l d h ave h e l p e d greatly and aided his recovery would have been an electric bed.

“However, he was in a bed with a pullout backrest, so every time he needed to move he had to call a nurse, which he just would not do.”

Hogan said that she and her family “decided there and then to go on this fundraising journey” to raise money for electric beds, upgrade works on patient bathrooms, and paintings for the waiting area of the cancer day ward.

“We did this to say

Karrie Hogan, who challenged herself to raise €10,000 in six months for the Mater

I have made it and to show that there is life after cancer. You don’t have to be afraid and think ‘I can’t do this’ or ‘I can’t do that’. You can survive and go on and

live a normal life.”

She added: “The people we’ve met along the way, and their generosity has been amazing.

My family have supported me so much and

have made this possible.”

To donate to this fund, visit Karrie Hogan’s “mycharity” page, or email contact@ materfoundation.ie.

DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s Grant Scheme for 2016 is now open for applications.

The purpose of the scheme is to provide financial assistance to individuals, groups and organisations engaged in projects, events or developments at a local or county level.

T hese grants will encourage the development of a broad range of local community activities and services.

The 2016 scheme and the relevant application forms can be downloaded at: http://www.dlrcoco. ie/aboutus/councildepartments/environment/ findit/grantschemes/.

The closing date for applications is Monday, November 2.

10 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 1 October 2015

gazetteGALLERIES

Caoimhe Velerio and Aisling Kelly. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

festival: the beatyard mixes it up by the sea in dun laoghaire

P

OPULAR music and creativity festival The Beatyard took a trip to the seaside this year, with its relocation to Dun Laoghaire Harbour proving a hit with long-standing festival goers across its two-day run. Bringing together an eclectic range of musicians, chefs and creative people, there was food for all the senses at Beatyard 2015, which married great music with some delicious fare, courtesy of many of Dublin’s artisan producers. A number of Dun Laoghaire businesses also set out their stalls, bringing a dash of coastal cuisine to the many Beatyard visitors soaking in the sights, sounds and sea air at the pretty harbour area.

Dolores Murray, Connie McGabhann, Eileen Hogan and Imelda O’Reilly. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

Emma Brady and Simone Evans

Hannah Dowling and Orla Ryan

Rionagh McNamara and Leslie McDonogh

Marta Szajduk and Simon Kirwan

Olga Moran and Teresa Roome share a good story

1 October 2015 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 11

Eva Cleary

Michael Kinsella and Grace Mannion

Betty McDermott

stillorgan: kilmacud crokes fans

Looking back at club’s glory K

ILMACUD Crokes recently held an informal get-together at Glenalbyn House, Stillorgan, with lots of former members of the club coming along to share a cuppa and a catch-up. With some of those attending being former members from some decades ago, and others being younger people with their own links to the club’s illustrious past, there was lots to look back on. The gathering was a great way to showcase the strong community bond in the area, illustrating how pride in and support of local sport remain a shared inter-generational passion.

Michael Kinsella greeting Brian Kelly and friends

Dolores Nolan and Patrica Sweeney

An elevated view of some of those at the event

Eileen McGovern

12 Gazette 1 October 2015

gazetteGALLERY

Sinead Burke

Alex and Teodora Coptil. Pictures: Ruth Medjber

A simple message of Hope to carry around

T

HE launch of jewellery designer Margaret O’Rourke’s special fundraising pendant in aid of Pieta House was a lovely success at MoMuse in the Powerscourt Centre, Dublin 2 recently, where her design was greatly praised.

Retailing for €65, with 100% of

Ingrid Hoey

proceeds going to Pieta House, the self-harm and suicide support service, the Hope pendant is inscribed wth the same word – a key message that underpins the work of Pieta House.

The hand-finished pendants are accompanied by a keepsake card, providing an elegant reminder to its

Jenny McGinn and Rosemary McCabe

bearer or gift-giver of the importance of persevering, of reaching out, of providing or seeking support for those in need.

With such an admirable cause to support, there was a steady stream of supporters willing to help support the pendant and Pieta House.

Melanie Morris

Margaret O’Rourke and Brian Higgins, chief executive, Pieta House

Cara Doyle

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dublinlife Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week

a day in the life: xpose presenter, glendA gilson on her busy routine

what’son

A hectic but sparkling life chasing stars  aisling kennedy

XPOSE presenter Glenda Gilson rarely has two days that are the same, as she is constantly on the move covering all types of fashion, showbiz, and entertainment news.

Having just returned from a week reporting as the fashion correspondent for Xpose at London Fashion Week, she took time out to give The Gazette an insight into a day in her life with Xpose.

“Tomorrow, I will get up at 4.30am as I have to fly to London to interview Jessica Chastain, who is starring in the movie The Martian, which is out this week.

“When I get up at that time, it’s way too early to have breakfast so I’ll have a coffee. I’ll wait until I get over to London, get to the Dorchester Hotel where I have to meet Jessica, and then I’ll sit down and have something to eat while I read over my questions.”

Gilson said that as she reads over her questions, she will also put on her makeup before she heads up to a suite where she will interview the Hollywood star.

“The interview will be a standard press junket, so it’s a two-camera set up with each reporter taking turns sitting down to interview her. I’ve met Jessica before,

get ready for speks appeal HAVING played to full houses all across Ireland, the inimitable Speks will bring their unique blend of traditional music and nursery rhymes to The Mill Theatre in Dundrum on Sunday, October 4 at 2pm.

Comprising six members, the Speks are said to hail from a mysterious island off the coast of County Clare called Glasses Island, where everybody wears glasses.

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‘I don’t usually get changed for the red carpet, because all you see is my head and shoulders’

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Glenda Gilson

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and she’s a gorgeous girl; she always has a smile on her face every time you meet her.”

Gilson said that once the interview is over, she then has to make her way over to the film premiere at Leicester Square to meet the rest of the cast of The Martian, which includes stars such as Matt Damon and Kate Mara.

She is then sectioned into the media “pin”, where they place all media on lockdown as they all vie to get an interview with the stars.

“That’s about two hours of being on my tippy-toes with my arm outstretched to get questions to all the stars that walk past me. I don’t usually get changed for the red carpet, because all you see is my head and shoulders.

“I used to wear heels and a dress for

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“I usually don’t get home to my house until about 12.30am, so I try to unwind for about an hour, get some sleep, and do it all again the next day,” says Glenda

these events, but now I just throw on flats and get over there and do what I can in those couple of hours.”

Gilson then runs to catch a taxi at about 7.30pm when the red carpet event is over, and she catches the Heathrow Express from Paddington to get to her flight.

“I make sure I get there on time now, because I’ve missed so many flights!

I’ll grab a beer and a bite to eat at the airport, because I’m usually hyper after coming from the red carpet.

“I usually don’t get home to my house until about 12.30am, so I try to unwind for about an hour, get some sleep, and then get up to do it all again the next day.”

Catch Glenda Gilson on Xpose every week day on TV3.

Favourites Their 45-minute show comprises all-time favourite nursery rhymes such as Humpty Dumpty, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Incy Wincy Spider and many more family favourites, set to acoustic Irish traditional music.

Band leader Quince said: “We are so looking forward to playing in Dublin; we’ve been so close, in Kildare and Wicklow, but have never made it to the city, and what a treat for us, and for the children! We’ll have them singing and clapping to their hearts’ content.”

To purchase tickets for the event, see www.thespeks.com.

14 Gazette 1 October 2015

Gazette

dublinlife Hit the trail to help find a cure for sight loss

Fighting Blindness has launched its sixth annual Glendalough Trail, which is open to all levels of fitness with 15.5km run and 10km jog/walk options.

Taking place on Saturday, October 31, at 11am, the event last year saw over 300 people take the challenge raising €17,000

to support research into finding cures and treatments for sight loss.

Fighting Blindness is calling on walkers, runners and joggers to join in this off-road experience, and enjoy the magnificent scenery along the green forest trails of County Wicklow.

Tony Ward, head of

fundraising with Fighting Blindness, said: “The Glendalough Trail is unique, with a carefully planned route through the beautiful valley and a great variety of underfoot terrain. We welcome all supporters to come and join us this year for what promises to be a great day out.”

The entry fee is €20, with a further €50 minimum fundraising target, with all proceeds going to Fighting Blindness.

For more information please visit www.FightingBlindness.ie.

daly does her bit for Childline Cheerios Childline Breakfast week which runs from October 5 to 11 was launched by TV3 presenter Anna Daly at a special series of children’s events in Blanchardstown Shopping Centre last weekend.

Speaking to The Gazette, Daly said: “700,000 calls per annum go into childline from children who have the courage to pick up the phone and look for help.

“When you think about that it’s just so sad. Before I had children I would have thought that was very sad, now that I have them it makes me want to ball crying,” she said.

She went on to say that the funds raised through this initiative enable more staff to staff the phones 24/7 as, if a child calls at 3am and nobody is there to take the call, childline may miss its one opportunity to help that child.

For more information on hosting a Cheerios Childline Breakfast visit www.childlinebreakfast. ie.

lectures to mark 25th anniversary As part of the Carmichael Centre’s 25th anniversary,

diary

Actress and writer Amy Huberman who was on hand to officially launch the Bord Gais Energy Student Theatre Awards

celebrations are due to take place with a series of six public lectures over the winter/spring period.

The Carmichael Centre is home to 47 charities and provides shared services and targeted supports in-house to over 30,000 people from all over Ireland every year.

The lectures will take place in Carmichael House on Brunswick Street from 7 to 9pm and will be on the theme “Irish Civic Society 100 years on from the Proclamation of the Irish Republic”.

Some of the speakers who will contribute include: Sister Stan Kennedy (founder of Focus Ireland) on October 22, John Lonergan (former governor of Mountjoy Prison) on November 19, Fintan O’Toole (Irish Times journalist) on December 3, Sean Healy (director and co-founder of Social Justice) on January 21, Alice Leahy (director and co-founder of Social Justice Ireland) on February 18, and Pat Carey (former Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs and chairperson of the Irish Red Cross) on March 10.

The lectures are free for the public to attend and

light refreshments will be served. For information, email ken@carmichaelcentre.ie.

call to take part in theatre awards Bord Gais Energy is calling on students in Dublin to take part in this year’s Bord Gais Energy Student Theatre Awards.

Irish actress Amy Huberman officially launched the annual awards that celebrate drama in schools around Ireland. The actress, and mum of two, will also be joining the judging panel for this year’s awards with additional judges due to be announced later in the year. This year marks the third year the awards have taken place.

Last year there were over 3,300 entries from schools across Ireland culminating in an awards ceremony at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre with 2,000 students representing 57 schools in attendance.

The Bord Gais Energy Student Theatre Awards, which has 12 categories, is open to primary school students from third to sixth class and all secondary school students.

The deadline for entries to the competition is 5pm,

Friday, January 29.

For more information log onto www.bgesta.ie

entries sought for music awards Dublin teens can now tune up for the €3,000 top prize as the Fr Frank Maher Classical Music Awards is seeking entries for 2015.

With a €3,000 prize for the winner and €250 for the finalists, it is Ireland’s largest classical music competition for secondary schools.

The top prize bursary will be used by the winner to attend a recognised place of tuition, a course of study in Ireland or abroad or on a purchase necessary for the development of their talent.

Welcoming the launch of the 2015 Awards, RTE NSO leader Helena Wood said: “As players, we are conscious of the enormous financial and personal investment required for young musicians. This prize money will provide some talented young person with valuable additional financial help in fulfilling their musical ambitions.”

Closing date for entries is October 15. For more information, visit www. topsecurity.ie.

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FEATURE escape the mayhem: alison comyn, utv ireland

UTV host switches off with beach life

 ian begley

KEEPING up-to-date with the news, alongside having the busy occupation as co-anchor of UTV’s Ireland Live programme, can certainly lead to a lot of stress.

According to TV presenter and mother of two Alison Comyn, working in a very pressurised and competitive environment can take its toll, but finding a healthy balance between work and play is key to keeping the stress levels at bay.

This week, The Gazette caught up with Comyn to see what she does to escape the mayhem of her

day-to-day life.

Aged 44, Comyn lives in Drogheda with her husband, Malachy, and their two children, Holly and Luke.

She said: “At times I find it very difficult to unwind and relax even though I’m aware of how important it is. I’m always running about the place, but for me, I find the best way to switch off is to head to the beach nearby my home.

“I go to the beach whenever I get the chance and my children also like to come with me, along with my two dogs, Izzy and Zach.

“It’s great seeing my

children run loose and get out and about in the fresh air, but for me I find that it’s a fantastic way to get a bit of exercise without even knowing it.

“I also used to run a lot to get fit and to clear my head. I probably should do it a lot more because I find it very beneficial.”

Comyn went onto say that another way she likes to unwind and distress herself is to travel.

“I love to escape abroad whenever I get the time and experience all the different sights and cultures.

“I recently came back from France, and I’ll be going to Prague around Christmas time. Prague is

Bid for Dublin as Capital of Culture gathers pace  Keith Bellew

Around 500 people crowded into the Mansion House recently for a showcase of Dublin’s talents and a series of talks organised by the Dublin 2020 team and centred around the bid for Dublin to be crowned the European Capital of Culture in 2020.

The Gazette spoke with Dublin 2020 director Ray Yeates about how the bid came about, its most popular initiatives and the plans for the last few weeks before judges arrive for the inter view on November 12.

He said that the idea had been tossed around

by Dublin City Council as far back as 2012, but never crystallised.

“Last September is when the serious conversations began.

“It has come together very quickly in comparison to other cities who’ve been a couple of years building their teams. But we’ve caught up very quickly. We got going late last year, so this year has been very high paced,” he said.

T h e r e h ave b e e n numerous initiatives launched throughout the campaign and Yeates says the most popular of these is the Tea and Chat series which sees prominent people, such as Cllr Christy Burke a n d S e n a t o r D av i d Norris speaking about Dublin.

He said that there were two big events planned over the next

few weeks as a final push for the bid.

It is hoped that there will be a huge street party on November 12 to coincide with the Christmas lights being turned on.

This would serve as a finale for the entire bid as November 12 is the day that judges from the Capital of Culture will interview the Dublin 2020 team.

“We’d love to get a big street event with about 5,000 people just around the time of the interview.

“Dublin Town were telling me that they’ll be switching on the Christmas lights on November 12 which is the day of the interview, so we might be able to turn it into a big bid event,” he said.

such a beautiful city, and the Christmas markets they have over there are just incredible.

“I don’t read as much as I should, but I’ve always found it to be a great way to unwind. Actually, when I was away on holidays, I read seven books on my Kindle. I’m really getting into the old classics, such as Ernest Hemingway,” she said.

Alison Comyn has been the co-anchor of UTV Ireland’s weekday news programmes Ireland Live and Ireland Live at 10 since January, and was recently asked to present an IFTA at the upcoming award ceremony.

TV presenter Alison Comyn, who heads to a nearby beach to relax with her children

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features

Michael looking forward to having a ball in Dublin  ian begley

Michael Ball : “The craic here is just amazing and you always get the best welcome”. Picture: Manuel Harlan

Theatre legend Michael Ball is coming to Ireland to showcase the classic Broadway musical Mack & Mabel and has told The Gazette that he plans to hit his favourite nightlife hotspots while in Dublin.

Ball who plays Mack Sennett, the great comedy director of the silent screen, stars alongside Rebecca LaChance who depicts the real-life story of actress Mabel Normand.

The show tells the tale of a group of pioneering filmmakers who changed

the world surrounded by the great fun of the silent screen.

Speaking to The Gazette, Ball said that he has been to Ireland many times before and always loves coming back.

“I’ll make sure to drop

by Lillies Bordello while I’m here and will do all the good things that I can’t remember from the last time I was here.

“I don’t understand how you guys do it. The craic here is just amazing and you always get the best welcome that can’t be compared to anywhere else.”

Ball went onto say that Mack & Mabel exceeded all of his expectations – he thinks it’s one of the most successful shows he’s ever been in.

“There’s a phenomenal cast and the energy of the dance numbers, choreography and slap stick humour gels together perfectly.”

Asked if he thinks he would survive in the era of silent movies, Ball joked: “Not a chance!

“Rebecca, who is playing Mabel, would be perfect because when you see the close-ups of her and compare them to the original close-ups of Mabel Normand, you can tell that she has the same ability to captivate an audience.

“To be quite frank my character Mack was a bastard.

“He was completely driven and obsessed with this new technology of film and would make people laugh at whatever cost, which is ultimately the downfall of their rela-

tionship.

“Mack is an Irish Canadian and is referred to throughout the show as that ‘Irish Bum’.

“I considered doing an Irish-Canadian accent for the show, but it didn’t go so well.

“Playing alongside Rebecca has been a joy from start to finish.

“When we were auditioning in the UK I literally took one look at Rebecca and knew that she was meant to play Mabel.

“I’ve come across many talented Irish actors and up-and-coming performers from Ireland over the years.

“I recently saw Ronan Keating in Once and really thought he was terrific. I’ve seen it three times already and it’s one of my favourite shows.

“Killian Donnelly, who was in the Commitments, is in Kinky Boots.

“I really believe he’s going to be a big West End star, but the doors

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‘Mack is an Irish Canadian and is referred to throughout the show as that Irish Bum. I considered doing an Irish-Canadian accent for the show, but it didn’t go so well’ --------------------------------------------------------

“We narrowed it down to six finalists and I think what did it for her was that she was so calm and natural.”

LaChance also spoke to The Gazette, saying she was really looking forward to performing in Ireland and had no idea that she would be offered the role of Mabel in the first place.

“I was really convinced that I didn’t get the part after I went for the audition and was so surprised when they called me the following day giving me the good news.

“It’s such an exciting experience and I’m delighted to be playing such a big role.”

Asked if there are many Irish people trying to get their big break in the West End, Ball said:

are always open to great talent no matter where they’re from.”

Ball went onto say that nothing was more important than getting experience if you are an aspiring actor.

“Nothing is more important than experience which can come from visiting shows, getting involved in amateur productions and learning and working in the field.

A major new production of the classic Broadway musical Mack & Mabel starring double Olivier award-winning Ball is coming to Bord Gais Energy Theatre from October 27 to November 7.

For more information, visit bordgaisenergytheatre.ie.

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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

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Pets a fun-loving Lurcher

Mary Murray, Cara Kelly and Catherine Cusack in Dancing at Lughnasa by Brian Friel. Picture: Ros Kavanagh

Festival: 28 productions spanning 22 different stages across Dublin

Theatrical treats aplenty  Keith Bellew

The Dublin Theatre Festival 2015 kicked off at venues around the city last week, and theatre buffs can avail of all the theatrical treats on offer until October 11.

This year’s programme boasts 28 productions, spanning 22 different stages across Dublin. Eleven new Irish works will premiere over 18 days alongside acclaimed productions from France, Belgium, Portugal, the Netherlands, the UK and Denmark.

The festival was officially opened at the Gaiety Theatre with the Irish premiere of The Night Alive by Conor McPherson, at the Gaiety Theatre in a new co-production from Dublin Theatre Festival and the Lyric Thea-

tre, Belfast.

This week the Gazette caught up with artistic director Willie White about the highlight’s of this year’s programme.

He said the various plays in the programme are like his children and it is very hard to pick a favourite, but one he believes to be among the main highlights is The Night Alive.

“Conor McPherson is from the northside of Dublin and premiered this play in London in 2013. I thought that was a great show and I was determined that we would have it as part of the festival.

It’s important to get a mix of shows which are high quality, but also reach a wider audience.

“We have people who are fantastic actors but also well known, like Laurence Kinlan who was Elmo in Love

/Hate, Ian Loyd Anderson was Dean, and then Adrian Dunbar, who is a very well-known film, television and stage actor who has performed in the festival before,” he said.

One of the most eye-catching events in the programme is the Gate Theatre’s production of Arthur Miller’s A View from the Bridge, directed by Joe Dowling.

This new production has been put together to honour America’s most renowned playwright on the 100th anniversary of his birth.

White says Dowling has just finished up 20 years leading the Guthrie Theatre in Minneapolis Minnesota where he had an association with Miller’s work.

“He has directed world premieres of some of Miller’s plays as far as I recall,

and I have seen [a production of] All My Sons that he did at the Abbey. It has opened already and is running throughout the festival and it’s a very strong production. As you would expect it is a red-blooded play of jealousy, loyalty, community and revenge,” he said.

Another anniversary production at this year’s festival is the Lyric Theatre Belfast’s production of Brian Friel’s Dancing at Lughnasa, at the Gaiety Theatre. The award-winning Annabelle Comyn directs this 25th anniversary production which opens on October 6.

White described Dancing at Lughnasa as a masterpiece and said the festival provides a platform for a whole new generation to see it.

For more information visit www. dublintheatrefestival.com.

The Dublin Gazette Newspaper Group has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs.

Our Dog of the Week this week is Kim, a stunning six-year-old female lurcher. She arrived into Dogs Trust pregnant last year and went on to have a litter of beautiful puppies who have all since found wonderful homes. Kim is quite shy but has a goofy, fun loving and quirky personality that she shows to those who spend time with her.

If you think you could offer Kim a home, please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000.

They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie.

You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook. com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. Don’t forget that you can also support Dogs Trust by checking out their online shop www.dogstrustshop. ie

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 1 October 2015

OUT&ABOUT

STYLE

Time for a toccata at Weir & Sons WATCH aficionados, form an orderly queue – the limited edition toccata by Raymond Weil, in association with violinist Nicola Benedetti, is now available at Weir & Sons.

Swiss watchmaker Raymond Weil recently announced its partnership with internationally renowned classical violinist Nicola Benedetti (above) to present the new 34mm ladies watch, the toccata (right).

Now available at Weir & Sons, and with just 300 pieces created, this signature toccata watch features a 34mm rose gold case with chocolate-brown ionised dial, decorated with 11 diamond markers and 80 diamonds set around the bezel.

Also featuring a date window at 3 o’clock, the look is completed by a luxurious chocolate brown satin strap, with the toccata retailing for €2,150.

Benedetti joins Raymond Weil’s impressive roster of musical ambassadors, which includes Labrinth, Milos Karadaglic and 2Cellos.

The arrival of the new toccata at Weir & Sons is perfectly timed as Benedetti took to the stage at the National Concert Hall on September 30.

Artisan lace trim shift dress €87; Fur clutch €31

Denim popper dress €60; Leather trench €375; Brown ankle boot €85

Lumberjacket coat €137; Leather skirt €40; Cable knit jumper €45; Black tassle boots €85

Jacquard pants €53; Sparkle crop tank top €35; Jacquard jacket €75

Boucle scarf €25; Artisan tuft jumper €56; Check marley mini €47

Oasis style for autumn  MIMI MURRAY

CHANNEL your inner 70s goddess with these stylish pieces from Oasis.

From washed denim to Prince of Wales and Donegal check, these are looks

that will take nostalgia to another level.

Clean, lean cuts are layered for effortless effect while pattern is replaced by embellishment including detailed embroidery, full fringing

and opulent jacquard for both day and night.

Check out this beautiful Oasis shoot styled

by Dublin stylist, Judy Gilroy, and shot by Dublin photographer, Kenny Whittle.

White Victoriana dress €75; Black boots €85; Floppy hat €31

Denim popper dress €60; Brown ankle boot €85

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OUT&ABOUT

Some of the best places to stay in Carcassonne LOOKING for luxury?

Try the four-star Hotel Donjon (Best Western – this is where I stayed very happily), or the five-star Hotel De La Cite, both of which operate within the walled city.

They run shuttles to and from the airport – all you have to do is ask. Friendly staff are on hand to help with any information you need.

Accessible Breakfast includes a bit of a fry – if you must! Newspapers are easily accessible if you’re that way inclined.

The hotels have gourmet restaurants attached, so you can eat, drink, then roll home within minutes without a care in the world.

Otherwise, for those on a tighter budget, from November 1 until March 30, there’s a special offer. Bon Weekend a Carcassonne promises the canny traveller two nights for the price of one, as well as B&B at weekends.

To find out which hotels are participating, see http://www. tourism-carcassonne. co.uk/news/exceptional-offer-bon-weekendcarcassonne, and start planning your holiday.  therese caherty

The Hotel Donjon

Glimpses of philosopher Michel Foucault’s home afford a vision of timeless canalside relaxation

The 240km Canal Du Midi has as much charm today as when it was built in 1666 as a crucial waterway

Carcassonne’s wonderful, ancient walls and heritage sites are quite a sight to behold

Carcassonne: a leisurely break in france’s Languedoc-Rousillon region

A medieval treasure that’s great for a relaxing escape  therese caherty

SUMMER was leaving, and so was I. After a minor delay on the runway, the Ryanair craft rose in the early morning fog, direction: southwest France.

Carcassonne, in the Languedoc-Rousillon region, was basking in the early 20s, and shortly so was I, as I was ferried to the golden ramparts of the medieval city.

La Cite Carcassonne The history of this citadel – a UNESCO world heritage site since 1997 – is overwhelmingly broad, deep and fascinating. The long story short is this ...

Situated on a hill between the Atlantic and

the Mediterranean, the Romans instantly recognised the area’s strategic value and built a fortress.

So, around 100BC, Carcassonne found itself on the military map where it sat for a very long time.

Its interior walls, with their stonework variations, tell a story of constant transition. The fortification’s circular design comprises two outer walls, 53 towers (one still known as the Inquisition Tower), barbicans (castle defences), a drawbridge and ditch. Stepping into it is like stepping into a Game of Thrones hologram.

Over the centuries, its authority waned and the city went into terrible decline, to such an extent

that the French government wanted it razed.

Enter architect Eugene Viollet Le Duc in 1849, charged with a restoration which began in 1853. The fruits of his labour didn’t quite create a war, but he took some flak for imposing his own vision on the city – and for outsourcing materials.

However, Viollet Le Duc triumphed. We stood in awe amid the ruins he retrieved. What if the walls could speak? I touched the ramparts that have heard the shouts of Roman generals, the roars of Charlemagne, the wails of Cathars, the mutterings of Viollet Le Duc and today the oohs and ahs of tourists.

They have witnessed

so much victory, defeat, needless bloodshed and misery, and what has been learned? History just goes on repeating itself ...

Back on the winding streets, the force of tourism is a jolt. Everywhere, shops of all hues jostle for your cash – reader, keep your eyes on the architecture and pass by.

Basilica SaintNazaire My afternoon tour ended in the nearby Basilica of Saint-Nazaire, also restored by Violletle-Duc. Its cool mix of Romanesque nave and later Gothic choir held a pleasant surprise: a Russian quartet singing acapella amid the stained glass windows, each car-

How Carcassonne got its name AFTER a five-year siege, Queen Carcas realised food was running out and brains, not brawn, were needed to deliver her city. The artful Saracen took the last remaining pig, fed it the last remaining wheat, and flung it over the ramparts.

Believing the city had food enough to waste on pigs, warlord Charlemagne withdrew.

A jubilant Carcas rang the city bells, causing one of Charlemagne’s soldiers to exclaim: “Carcas sonne!” (“Carcas is ringing!”) The rest is history ... See Dame Carcas on a column near the Narbonne Gate – a modern interpretation! rying its own story.

But should you tire of flickering candles and immaculate conceptions, nip outside for a long, satisfying gaze at the gargoyles.

Whenever I’ve spent too long in a medieval church, my spirit soars at the glorious sight of them snarling at the congregation below, urging us to “feck off out of here”!

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TRAVEL

OUIBITES

Miles of vines stretch out at the Vignobles Sarrail in Cazilhac A simple but sublime dessert at L’Artichaut

Tuck in to a dizzying selection of eateries Canal Du Midi The Canal Du Midi – another UNESCO heritage site – is an experience of a different stripe. Built in 1666 during the reign of Louis XIV, this 240km waterway from Toulouse to Sete links the Med with the Atlantic, hence its other name: Canal Des Deux Mers (canal of the two seas).

An original superhighway, it is an impressive example of human ingenuity. Given the area’s scarcity of water, enterprising engineer and canal builder Pierre-Paul Riquet (Baron de Bonrepos, to you) set about taking water from the nearby Black Mountains.

He constructed a 6m cubic metre lake, the Bassin de St Ferreol, which filched water from the hills, then filled his canal.

Back in 2015, these nuggets of prime information were in danger of drifting off forever as we moved along Riquet’s creation for several hours, shaded by great plane trees.

The gates opened slowly, the locks filled with a rush of warm dank water, our barge slid on.

I heard someone say

we were passing the home of philosopher Michel Foucault and, yes, there it was, gliding away to my right ...

“You can’t hurry on the Canal Du Midi,” our capitaine intoned. “There’s just no point.” Firm Bateau le Cocagne’s tour with multilingual guide is to be recommended and is easily accessible outside the Hotel Bristol opposite the train station.

The Bastide de Saint Louis Back on terra firma, a stroll around the Bastide de Saint Louis returned me to my land legs. Built during the time of Saint Louis in 1260, it lies on the left bank of the River Aude. Basically a rectangular grid, it’s laid out around a central square, now the Place Carnot.

While its boundaries are determined these days by the boulevards laid out in the 18th and 19th centuries on the site of the old moats, the Bastide’s grid-like streetscape has survived.

You always knowwhere you are and no matter where you wander, you’ll find something to tickle your fancy.

The Canal Du Midi is an inviting 240km Part of Basilica of Saint-Nazaire

stretch of waterway

Gargoyles adorn much of the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire, glaring out at the world today with the same distinctive fashion as they have done for centuries

For my part, I stumbled on the Musee des Beauxarts’ Raoul Dufy exhibition, the French Fauvist painter who claimed “my eyes exist to erase ugliness”.

Several rooms filled to bursting with his vivid work, including their transposition to ceramic and textile design, were stunning.

Vignobles Sarrail And so, on to the obligatory wine-tasting in

the Vignobles Sarrail in nearby Cazilhac. If you’re curious to know how your wine gets into the bottle, look no further.

As we gazed over miles of vines, Pauline Greefhorst, of Domaine Sarrail, reassured me that machines do the harvesting, not humans. In the production area we saw great vats where grapes are offloaded, the oak tanks where wine ages to perfection, and thence to the public outlet, where

customers – or visitors like me – sample their wares.

Technically, you’re supposed to gargle and spit into the spittoons which stood as high as my shoulder. But I’ve spent a lifetime refraining so instead I swallowed! It seemed wasteful to do otherwise.

Abrupt as ever, the short break ended and I was scudding home. If you’re an ABB (anything but the beach) person, then Carcassonne awaits.

A bientot!

INSIDE (and outside) Carcassonne’s ramparts you’ll find the restaurant choice dizzying – so let me help!

For lunch, t h e r e g i o n ’s traditional cassoulet is a must.

This rich, slowcooked casserole includes pork sausages, goose, duck, sometimes mutton, pork skin (couennes) and haricots blancs – white beans, to you and me.

Reliable sources led me to Le Saint Jean restaurant, Place St Jean.

Our food arrived in cassoles: deep, round, earthenware pots with slanting sides.

Complete with a glass of fine local red, the dish (above, right) was a winner. I’m now officially a fan of cassoulet!

If you’re vegetarian and in the Bastide, L’Artichaut, on the main square – Place Carnot – is the place to go. It delivers a tasty aubergine lasagne, a baked camembert salad and plenty else besides.

The cafe dessert was to drool for –rich chocolate cake, a helping of panna cotta, and a dollop of icecream, all topped off with an espresso. My sinuses

were screaming but what the heck, it was worth it.

For a more gastronomic experience, treat yourself to dinner at the Comte Roger, Rue St Louis, again within the ramparts.

Here I met the chef, Pierre Mesa, who, noting my wheat-free status, delivered one of the best meals of my life. Roast cannette (duckling) arrived and was melt in the mouth. The daintily arranged veg were deliciously al dente.

Dessert, with its lavender theme, was a work of art. And the local wines, recommended by staff, were very more-ish.

The Hotel De La Cite with its one-star Michelin restaurant, La Barbacane, offers a similar gourmet experience.

So, go for it, and bon appetit!  therese caherty

Gazette

22 Gazette 1 October 2015

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

ReelReviews

the scorch trials Running for the top

THE sequel to last year’s The Maze Runners – Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials (Cert 12A, 131 mins) – sees a group of young people running for their lives (again). Having escaped from a deadly, ever-shifting giant maze and its horrors in the first film, the young leads discover that the outside, ruined world is even worse. Some decent set-pieces help to elevate it into a solidly diverting tale.

walk in the woods Wandering and wondering TWO elderly pals rekindle an old friendship by setting off to hike the 2,200 miles of the Appalachian Trail in A Walk in The Woods (Cert 15A, 104 mins).

Robert Redford and Nick Nolte make an amiable pair, with their grumbling as they go providing light entertainment, despite some contrived sequences.

Still, it has all the bare essentials for a road trip – via the impressive woods.

inside out

Another pretty Pixar FOR the few people who haven’t seen it yet, Inside Out (Cert G, 102 mins) remains one of Pixar’s best films for years, and has a surprising amount of emotional depths for adults, too. Following the emotions of a small family – with each personified by a different character – and their daughter, it’s a bright, breezy and super colourful family films that takes bold steps into the psyche, too.

In their pairing as an unlikely mentor and student, bored retiree Ben (Robert De Niro) delivers some great life lessons to his new boss, Jules (Anne Hathaway)

the intern: an unusual friendship creates the heart of de niro’s latest

Some fresh lessons on life THE Intern popped up on a lot of people’s radars last week when its co-star, Robert De Niro, took umbrage with the tone of questions being levelled at him during a promotional interview and stormed out.

While the subsequent palaver seems to be more significant than the actual exchange, this skimpy hint of De Niro’s ire stands out as a lone mark on an otherwise spotless (and sometimes infamously mundane) track record of dealing with the press.

After decades of playing tough guys on screen, it is oddly fitting that De Niro should begin to crack during this promotional tour, as his character in The Intern is quite possibly the sweetest character you’ll see in film this year.

Displaying the kind of protestant work ethic

 Dave phillips

that would put the founding fathers to shame, Ben Whittaker is a 70-year-old widower who is quickly realising that there is no substitute for a day at the office.

When a locally-based online fashion company opens its doors to senior interns, he makes sure he is first in line, and he is reluctantly accepted into the fold by the boss, Jules Ostin (Anne Hathaway).

Confident and precocious, Jules’s intimacy with every level of her business has her so stretched for time she has taken to cycling around the office, with her coffee

in a handlebar holder and a small army of notaries in tow scheduling in every spare moment.

While it’s a role reversal for Hathaway, you should not expect a reiteration of The Devil Wears Prada – as a character, Jules is more gently moronic than wilfully demonic.

I n s t e a d , we h ave another fine example of what writer and director Nancy Meyers does best.

Meyers has a slew of feelgood romantic comedy successes under her belt, including 2003’s Something’s Gotta Give, and 2009’s It’s Complicated, and her latest film almost fits neatly beside them.

The Intern feels like a romantic comedy – just without the romance.

Like in a traditional love story, the characters gravitate to one another because they need one

another.

Jules is capable but overwhelmed in her position, her inability to trust anyone else to do the job is leading to an insurmountable volume of work that is affecting her family and social life.

Meanwhile, Ben requires an order and structure that is lacking in retirement – it is not just the regimen of getting up and going to the office: Ben needs meaning in his life, and that comes through solving other people’s problems.

It is a trial by fire that provides much of the merriment, but the platonic relationship that develops between the two leads is beauti-

ful to watch.

Hathaway in particular is on top form here, bringing great complexity to what could have been an otherwise straightforward role.

De Niro’s character is a little more linear, but he plays it well and provides the fodder for some very well-written fish-out-ofwater comedy.

It is the classic oddcouple pairing, but while things may look light and airy from the outside, there is a hidd e n l e ve l of depth a t p l ay throughout the film.

Despite the simplicity of the set-up, The Intern still manages to go beyond its comedy roots and unfold in some unexpected ways.

Meyers has seemingly mastered the art of tickling you with one hand and tugging on your heartstrings with the other, while every now and then kneeing you hard in the gut just for good measure.

Here we have two hours of great comedy, wonderful dialogue, engaging story, lovable characters and captivating performances – there’s no good reason not to see this.

Verdict: 8/10

Writer and director Nancy Meyers has delivered another feel-good film that may not reach the heights of Something’s Gotta Give, but is still worthy of a look

1 October 2015 Gazette 23

Gazette

MUSIC music video: Cry Monster Cry

Rethinking the bond between music and film

Dublin folk duo Cry Monster Cry have recorded a music video for their track Starling which will feature on Around the World in 80 Music Videos, a global series on music videos, which seeks to rethink the relationship between music and filmmaking, throughout the world.

Created by Brazilian filmmakers Diana Boccara and Leo Longo, all music videos are shot in one take and are presented along with an episode of Behind

the Trip, the web series of the couple, with the making of the videos.

Starling, from the band’s debut album, Rhythm of Dawn, is the 25th in the series and premiered recently on YouTube.

Inspire

Because of the references to certain birds in the lyrics (mocking bird and starling, animals that have the ability to mimic sounds) the music video aims to tell the story of the relationship and exchange

that mankind and nature have, and how they inspire each other, in this case, through music.

The concept of the video also plays with the idea of birdwatchers being watched by the birds, as one inspires the other.

The music video was shot in the Dublin Mountains, in Massey’s Woods, with the presence of friends and family of the band together with friends of Boccara and Longo.

Throughout the

video they don different masks and appear as the creatures of the forest.

The Delorentos also recorded a music video and The Coronas will record a video for their song Get Loose on October 5 as the final Irish contribution to the series.

Boccara and Longo are then moving on to Africa, to shoot music videos there.

Cr y Monster Cr y’s Starling: can be viewed at https://youtu.be/ii5PCo-w3sE?list=PLDB-

Cry Monster Cry’s video was shot high in the Dublin Mountains and was done in one single shot

gLJKGCz4HeSuIjV87rFOdbC20JSBl For more information on Around the World in

80 Music Videos visit: w w w.facebook.com/ atw80musicvideos, https://www.youtube.

com/aroundtheworldin80musicvideos or instagram.com/ atw80musicvideos/

24 Gazette 1 October 2015

Gazette

1 October 2015 Gazette 25

OUT&ABOUT

GAMING

technology: dedicated handheld hardware could soon be a thing of the past

Ready for portable gaming’s evolution?

 shane dillon

WITH the inexorable rise of mobile gaming into mass culture, you might expect to see dedicated handheld consoles enjoying a resurgent popularity, following in the notable footsteps left by the likes of Nintendo’s 3DS, or Sony’s PlayStation Vita.

However, the opposite now seems to be true – the ever-increasing rise in mobile gaming makes

it increasingly less likely that new gaming handhelds will appear. Why, you may ask?

Speaking in Birmingham at the just concluded EGX 2015 – the UK’s biggest gaming event – Shuhei Yoshida, president of Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios, was asked about developing a sequel platform to the Vita.

He said: “People have mobile phones and it’s

so easy to play games on smartphones. And many games on smartphones are free, or free to start.

“I myself am a huge fan of PlayStation Vita and we worked really hard on designing every aspect.

Touch-based games are fun – there are many games with really good design. But having sticks and buttons make things totally different.

“So I hope, like many of you, that this culture

of playing portable games continues, but the climate [for dedicated handheld platforms] is not healthy for now because of the huge dominance of mobile gaming.”

In other words: “Sure, mobile gaming is going through the roof, but the problem is that everyone’s playing games on their phones or tablets, rather than on a dedicated console. As such, the era of walking into a

Shuhei Yoshida, president of Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios

games shop to pick up a game for a handheld console – or the consoles – is as dead as a dodo.”

The only thing that seems likely is that, from 2016 onwards, a dedicated handheld that’s specifically controlled and curated by a single corporation simply won’t happen.

The major studios and publishers alike are being forced to evolve, facing an evolutionary battle that has already seen a number of gaming giants toppled in 2015, unable to keep pace with smaller and more agile developers nipping about their heels.

To echo Yoshida: “It’s

so easy to play games on smartphones.” This pragmatic statement is almost certain to see itself implemented by the gaming gods porting their biggest names and franchises into the new all-digital frontier, rather than clinging to traditional mobile gaming hardware models.

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28 gazette 1 October 2015

SPORT

FastSport hockey: dublin clubs endure mixed fortunes on opening day irish soccer international Dunne dies: FORMER Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper Pat Dunne passed away this week after a short illness, aged 72.

A former Stella Maris schoolboy player, Dunne signed for Everton before returning to Ireland and playing for Shamrock Rovers from 1962 to 1964. He was part of the Shamrock Rovers team which won the League of Ireland, FAI Cup, Shield, Leinster Senior Cup and Dublin City Cup in the 1963-64 season.

Dunne then joined Manchester United and won the English League First Division title in his first season and won Player of the Year at Plymouth Argyle in 1968.

He made 45 appearances for Manchester United and 152 for Plymouth Argyle before returning to Shamrock Rovers in 1970.

Dunne also won five caps for Ireland and played in the World Cup play-off against Spain in Paris in 1965.

National league’s new era  sport@dublingazette.com

G A R E T H Wa t k i n s ’ late double saw reigning national champions Monkstown snatch a 2-1 win over Railway Union to raise a dramatic curtain on the men’s EY Hockey

League, the first full season national league for the sport.

His side looked to be in a perilous position after Mateusz Nowakowski’s second quarter deflection had given Railway an early lead.

But Watkins held his nerve from a penalty stroke with eight minutes to go before touching home Jonny Bruton’s pass for the victory.

It was one of a series of high octane opening ties.

Lisnagarvey picked up an

Pembroke’s Alan Sothern lines up a shot

Railway Union’s Niamh Carey, right, on the attack. Picture: Adrian Boehm

important 3-2 win over Ballsbridge side Pembroke in a match laden with international talent.

Timmy Cockram, James Lorimer and debutant Neal Glassey built a 3-1 lead for the Hillsborough side, rendering Alan Sothern’s double ultimately fruitless, his second coming with mere seconds remaining.

Rathfarnham’s Three Rock Rovers, meanwhile, had a similarly comprehensive victory over Tallaght’s Glenanne as Peter Blakeney’s first half brace was augmented by goals from Ross Canning and Daragh Walsh.

On the women’s side, Anna O’Flanagan’s hat trick earned Hermes a 3-2 win against her former club UCD, coming from a

goal behind on two occasions to nick the result in the last play of the game.

Sara Twomey and Elaine Carey’s close range efforts put the students in front at 1-0 and 2-1 but O’Flanagan struck back twice for the Booterstown club before she eventually won the tie following a series of last-ditch penalty corners.

Ulster Elks came from a goal down to beat Pembroke 3-1. Sarah Clarke’s corner strike had the Dubliners 1-0 up at halftime but Shirley McCay turned the tide with a pair of goals before Jessica McMaster completed the victory.

Sandymount’s Railway Union were comfortable 2-0 winners against Cork Harlequins as Emer Lucey

and Niamh Carey scored in the first half to put new coach Colm Blennerhassett and his troops on course for victory.

UCC were the big winners on day one, coming away from Galway with a 4-0 success against Greenfields with Alex O’Grady, Antonia McGrath, Niamh O’Leary and Nicola Kerr among the goals.

Two final quarter goals from Sara Alexander saw Ards produce a famous comeback against Ulster rivals Pegasus.

Their 3-3 draw was one of the highlights of the first day. Pegasus had led 3-0 but Ards captain Caroline Adams gave them a lifeline from a corner before Alexander netted twice in the closing phases to grab a point.

Clontarf maintain winning run in UBL Division 1A  sport@dublingazette.com

Clontarf’s Matt D’Arcy

A SECOND half hat-trick from Mick McGrath saw Clontarf come from behind to beat Ballynahinch 38-17 and maintain their winning start to the Ulster Bank League Division 1A campaign.

Adding to his brace from the opening night against UCD, Mick McGrath turned this game on its head as Ballynahinch’s 10-0 interval lead was erased by the Leinster winger’s trio of scores, with the middle one set up by a Matt D’Arcy

interception.

McGrath’s brother Rob and Ulster prospect Conor Joyce swapped further tries before Michael Brown’s late effort - converted by Joey Carbery completed the table toppers’ third victory on the trot.

Leinster recruit Mick Kearney made a welcome return from injury in the Clontarf second row.

After losing to leaders Clontarf last time out, Old Belvedere got back to winning ways with a 24-12 defeat of a resilient Galwegians side at Anglesea Road.

Ed O’Keeffe’s second league try had ’Wegians just 11-7 behind at half-time and turning with the wind behind them, Matt Brown’s men went on to dominate the third quarter.

However, they could not convert pressure into points and ultimately paid the price.

A Gavin Tynan try had them back in front at 12-11, but Belvo were clinical in the final quarter with their Leinster-capped centre Steve Crosbie scoring a penalty and a converted try.

Yellow cards for ’Wegians locks Aly Muldowney and

Marty Cummins proved costly, and a closing penalty from Shane McDonald wrapped up the home win.

Fourth-placed UCD remain just three points off top spot following a superb nine-try 56-22 dismissal of Young Munster at a sun-splashed Belfield Bowl.

Ireland Under-20 international Billy Dardis helped himself to a hat-trick and Brian Cawley, Mark McGroarty, Adam Byrne, James Tracy, Jeremy Loughman and Jamie Glynn also touched down for the Noel McNamaracoached students.

1 October 2015 gazette 29

Gazette

Olympic marathon hopes move closer Dublin-based Sergiu Ciobanu and Mick Clohisey moved right into contention for a place at the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil thanks to their efforts in Berlin last weekend, writes NATHAN KELLY TWO LOCAL runners were among the top three Irish finishers at the Berlin Marathon last weekend as five home-grown athletes ran Olympic qualifying times.

Sergiu Ciobanu of Clonliffe Harriers and Mick Clohisey from Raheny Shamrock finished second and third in a 10-man and onewoman Irish contingent.

Olympic qualification time is 2.17.00 for men and 2.42.00 for women and Kevin Seaward from St Malachy’s in Belfast was the first across the line for the Irish with a time of 2.14.52. Lizzie Lee of Leevale AC in Cork was the leading

Irish woman with a time of 2.32.51 Ciobanu wasn’t too long after Seaward as he crossed the line after 2.15.14 while Clohisey soon followed in 2.15.35.

Speaking straight after the marathon, Ciobanu was naturally delighted with his performance.

“I’m delighted to finish as second Irishman,” he said.

The Harriers man, who finished 24th overall in Berlin, spoke with relief of what this result does for him over the next few months.

“Now I don’t have to worry too much about running another marathon in the spring. I can hopefully prove my form

with a half marathon at the world half marathon in March,” he said.

“My plan was to come and improve my personal best,” he added. “ Yo u c a n ’t k n ow exactly how the marathon is going to be. I just thought about starting it and see how I got on. We had a group over here and we worked together.

“I started to struggle a bit on the last 10km to 12km but in my mind I said I must not go slower than 3.20 per km. Up to that my pace was about 3.10 per km so I knew if I finished strong I could do well.”

Clohisey, meanwhile, finished just 21 seconds

Mick Clohisey, Kevin Seaward and Sergiu Ciobanu who all beat the Olympic marathon qualifying standard last weekend

after Ciobanu after initially leading the Irish charge from the start, and the Raheny Shamrocks man admitted to underestimating the distance in Berlin.

“The first half there was a good group of us and I was at the front of it all the way,” he said.

“I thought I’d r un around 2.15,” said the St Malachy’s man. “I didn’t think I could go inside it so it’s a pleasant surprise. I’m absolutely delighted. The first 5km felt really fast but as the race went on it settled and everything felt good from there.”

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

‘You can’t know exactly how the marathon is going to be.

I just thought about starting it and seeing how I got on’ Sergiu Ciobanu

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

“I had a 67.30 half-way pace, well it was either 67 or 67.30 I was looking at, there was a group of us. I thought that was perfect and I was feeling fine up until then.

“Just then in the second half you start to feel it, I actually thought I might be able to pick it up in the second half but in the last few miles I slowed a bit; I underestimated the distance.

“But I hung in there and I have to be a happy with 2.15.32, it’s a twominute personal best, I have to be happy,” added Clohisey who finished 29th overall.

The leading Irishman on the day, Kevin Seaward, also spoke after his 2.14.52 finish and revealed a bit of surprise at his time.

The leading Irish woman, Lizzie Lee, spoke emotionally after her 2.32.51 finish smashed the Olympic standard and her own personal best (2.38.09) from Berlin two years ago.

“I’m absolutely blown out of the park,” she said.

“The last two miles were the hardest thing I’ve ever done; my goal was 2.33.00. Fingers crossed now for selection for Rio.” The other Dublin runners among the leading Irish results were Sean Hehir (Rathfarnham WSAF) in 2.17.48, Mark Kirwan (Raheny Shamrock) in 2.19.30, Gary Murray (Clonliffe Harriers) in 2.21.09 and Tomas Fitzpatrick (Tallaght) in 2.22.18.

FastSport

Four-day turnarounds and injury issues abound FOR the duration of the Rugby World Cup, ex-Edinburgh and Marlboro player and IRANZ Level 5 rugby coach Dennis Bowes will give his thoughts on the key battles in the RWC15.

THE battle is over; the war is only starting. This week, the big talking points were the lack of recovery time for the tier two nations like Japan and Fiji with four-day turnarounds between big games.

Last week, we had Japan upsetting South Africa, we could not see the same thing happening again.

The smaller nations just can’t cope with the intensity and it proved so with both teams going down in the last 20 minutes of their second games and it proved a rough comedown after their immaculate opening.

The next big issue is injuries. How many worldclass players are missing from the biggest tournament in rugby already?

Most teams are already calling for the re-enforcements and need to add to their squads after only two games played Nowhere was this more evident than the big game on Saturday night between the host nation England against a Welsh side who were already reeling from the loss of their two star players in the warm up games, Rees Webb and Leigh Halfpenny.

It looked certain to be a tough game but one that England could not lose. A full strength England took a decisive lead before half time and looked like coming out second half to finish off a Welsh team hanging on 16-9 at half time and England in control.

The next 40 minutes of rugby were pure drama nails bitten to the bone. This was unreal stuff. At one stage, there were bodies left lying all over the pitch like a scene from Saving Private Ryan Wales lost three more players to the World Cup and it looked all over for them.

But with steely resolve and pure bloody guts and no little skill they clawed their way back from the edge With five minutes left on the clock they took the lead and never let it go. England defeated at home: an unreal moment as the chariot’s wheels came off.

Lastly, a mention for Ireland; they are building nicely and I think they can keep going all the way to the final; lets see what we get next weekend!

Gazette

30 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 1 October 2015

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: sallynoggin stars line out against elite clubs

Cowley gets big boost ahead of MMA debut KICKBOXER Cian Cowley received a big boost this week with Fitzpatrick’s Casino Dun Laoghaire announcing their sponsorship of the local professional athlete.

The Warriors gym head coach currently holds four belts; 70kg Irish Muay Thai Champion, 67kg Irish K1 Champion, 70kg Irish CMT Champion and is the holder of the 71kg 4 nations Thai Boxing belt.

One of the most extensively decorated Thai boxers in the country, Cowley is also one of the first professional athletes to make the move from Thai boxing at this level, changing the direction of his career to concentrate on Mixed Martial Arts.

He recently signed with Conor McGregor’s stable SBG Ireland, with his first fight planned for 2016.

David Moynihan, general manager of Fitzpatrick’s Casino Dun Laoghaire says, “We are proud to support a local professional athlete with massive potential.

“We believe Cian has all the tools to succeed at the very top of his profession and therefore in terms of investment we felt it was an easy decision to make.”

Claffey kicks Rock to last ditch victory BLACKROCK College RFC claimed a narrow 6-5 win over Old Belvedere on day two of the women’s All-Ireland last Sunday with a superb defensive effort.

The reigning queens of Irish rugby, Old Belvedere were besieged by their Dublin rivals in the opening 40 minutes as the first half was played mainly in Belvo territory.

Despite their territorial dominance, it took Blackrock until the stroke of halftime to get off the mark.

Michelle Claffey landed a penalty to put send her side into a 3-0 lead. Belvo countered in the second half and grabbed the only try when Ireland international Ailis Egan crossed with an hour played.

But the Stradbrook hosts won another penalty with two minutes remaining which Claffey duly put over to snatch the victory.

The St Joseph’s Boys Under-14 side during their recent trip to Madrid

Joey’s take on Madrid giants  nathan kelly sport@dublingazette.com

ST JOSEPH’S Boys Under-14s travelled over to the prestigious Madrid Football Cup last weekend and competed against some of the biggest clubs in world football.

The Sallynoggin outfit were placed in Group B for the annual tournament, which is the biggest in Europe for Under14s. Joining them in the group were the native Atletico Madrid, Werder Bremen of Germany, Dutch side FC Midtylland and JED United from Japan.

Speaking to GazetteSport after the tournament, Joey’s Under-14s coach Bernard Byrne revealed just how good the level of football was at the tournament.

“The standard was incredible,” he said. “We were playing against some of the biggest clubs in Europe and it was brilliant to be able to show our lads just how strong the level can be at their age.”

The south Dublin side were unlucky to finish the group without a win, but they did manage a draw against their Dutch opponents Midtylland and all of their defeats

special visit Monkstown welcome Repton for fight night monkstown Boxing Club will welcome one

of the world’s most famous and successful boxing clubs, Repton London BC, on Saturday, October 17 in St Joseph’s Boys Football Club, Sallynoggin.

Repton BC is in existence since the 1800s and has been home to many famous boxers including the Kray Bothers, Andy Lee (Irish and world Champion) and Anthony Joshua (Olympic gold medallist). They boast a new English record with 13 National Schoolboy champions in 2015.

were by a single goal.

One of those was a 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid in which they pushed the Spaniards right to the death and only conceded with three minutes to go.

“Our performances against really top sides were very encouraging,” said Byrne.

“You’ve got to remember nearly all of the teams in the competition were professional academies.

“I’m almost certain we were the only side that you would call a schoolboy team.

“Even though everyone at Joey’s does everything as professionally

as possible, the likes of Atletico and Bremen in our group, and Real Madrid, PSG and Juventus, who were also there, those sides are funded and backed on a different level altogether.”

Byrne and his team brought 17 young players over to Madrid, in what was Joey’s second year at the tournament in a row.

A couple of the Under13 travelled over to bolster the squad and those players should experience the competition again next year as Byrne believes the club’s foot is firmly in the Madrid door now.

“When we went over last year, I think we did the organisers a bit of a favour as a team dropped out late on and we were asked and obliged them, and then we were invited straight away this time round,” said the coach.

“It’s something for the players on the younger sides at Joey’s to look forward too because it really is a brilliant festival of football.

“Also, it will provide good tournament experience for our Under-14 players ahead of our own Hibernia Trophy every year, so it’s a fantastic opportunity for the club.”

1 October 2015 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 31

Gazette

Final frontier

Dublin hearts broken by narrow Cork margins

Club Noticeboard Cuala

Foxrock Cabinteely’s Sinead Goldrick

was at full stretch last Sunday in Croke Park to try and escape the clutches of Cork’s Annie Walsh in the ladies football All-Ireland final defeat on a narrow 0-12 to 0-10 scoreline.

Goldrick was joined in the Dublin team by club mates Hannah Noonan and Amy Connolly along with Kilmacud’s Molly Lamb. Picture: Paul Mohan/Sportsfile

AFTER a draw against Faughs on Sat-

football final on Sunday. It wasn’t to be

urday, our senior hurlers topped their

for the Girls in Blue but the 31,083 peo-

group and will face Craobh Chiaran

ple there broke the European record

in the Dublin SHC quarter-final on

for attendance at a women’s sporting

Wednesday, October 7 in Parnell Park

event.

Mind Your Head talk about concus-

at 8.15 pm.

hurling: extra time required in final repeat

Our second hurlers defeated Naomh

sion on October 5 from 7.30 to 8.30 in

Fionnbarra by 1-17 to 0-6 in AHL 5 and

Cuala hall. Especially aimed at every

the thirds also had a good 1-18 to 0-6

minor and adult player and coach,

win away to Castleknock in AHL8.

both codes and both genders.

Two championship wins from two

Good win in the championship for

for the adult camogie team with a

the minor footballers over Round

seven-point win away over Skerries.

Tower’s last Sunday.

Next up is a home game v Kevin’s/CBC

This week’s jackpot will be €2,500.

Our lucky dip winners last week were

next Sunday.

Hard luck to the U-15As who gave Kil-

Joe Mason and Michael Walsh. Buy

macud a great challenge in the football

your tickets online at http://www.

championship on Sunday but came up

cualagaa.ie/lotto.

Gaelic 4 Mothers are looking for new

short in the end.

Congrats to the U-16B footballers

members. Interested in keeping fit and

who secured a comprehensive league

playing football in a fun, non-competi-

win over Ballinteer St John’s.

tive social environment? If so, contact

With one league game left, they are currently in third position.

Cuala filled two double-decker buses with supporters at the ladies

- cualagaelic4mothers@gmail.com.

Tremendous performance from the adult ladies in a tough group at the ladies sevens.

Shankill

Kilmacud Crokes’ Ryan O’Dwyer surrounded. Picture: Diarmuid O’Gallchobhair

Jude’s halt Kilmacud Crokes title defence

shc quarter final Kilmacud Crokes 0-20 St Jude’s 0-22  sport@dublingazette.com

KILMACUD Crokes’ hopes of retaining the Dublin Senior Hurling Championship are over after an extra-time 0-22 to 0-20 defeat against St Jude’s on Saturday.

The result is a reverse of how Crokes won the 2014 county final, when they beat Jude’s in extratime. This time it was the Wellington Lane side who made the most of the extra 20 minutes and booked their place in the championship semi-final.

Crokes started the game rather well, scoring three points before Jude’s registered their first. At the end of the first half, the Glenalbyn men were ahead by 0-10 to 0-7. Five of Jude’s seven scores came from placed balls while six of Crokes came via Oisin O’Rorke, who finished the match with a personal tally of 0-13 (0-11f). Crokes’ other first half scores came courtesy of Barry O’Rorke, Ryan O’Dwyer and Sean McGrath.

Jude’s flew out of the blocks in the second half, with Ciaran Mangan and Ger McManus to the

fore. Danny Sutcliffe and Tom Devlin were cutting away at Crokes’ lead and the game was finally levelled 0-15 apiece through Fionn O’Riain Broin free in injury time.

Extra-time began as the sun was beginning to set on O’Toole Park but it looked as if there was plenty of light left in Crokes’ championship hopes as they scored five in the opening half to Jude’s three to leave the score at 0-20 to 0-18.

O’Rorke was key here again collecting three from frees.

The Stillorgan side failed to score once in

the second half of extratime, however, and Jude’s levelled through O’Riain Broin. The game was on a knife-edge, darkness was creeping in, vision was impaired, but it didn’t bother Jude’s Waterford native Wayne Hutchinson who scored two injury-time frees to knock the champions out of the championship.

Crokes will have to wait until next year to challenge for their seventh senior county crown but, in the shorter term, they will look to pick themselves up in their league clash with Cuala next Thursday.

THE juvenile academy, sponsored by

Our U-8 hurling team had a blitz

O’Donnell’s Pharmacy Shankill, is in

in the Castle with our guests Kevin’s

action every Saturday morning in

Hurling Club and once again did very

Shanganagh Castle at 10am catering

well. Training for the boys U-12 and

for four- to eight-years-old boys and

girls’ U-9 and 11 years is in the Castle

girls.

on Wednesday evening at 6.30pm and

Learn the skills of Gaelic Football, hurling and camogie in a safe and fun

on Saturday morning at 10am when there is no match.

environment. If you would like your

Hard luck to Molly Lamb and the

child to join the academy or any of our

Dubs Ladies; their day must soon

teams, just come along on the day and

come.

have fun with your friends. There are

The men’s adult football team’s

no trials, no selection processes and

next match is against Na Gael Oga on

no annual subscription. The cost is

this Sunday, October 4 at 3pm in the

only €2 for each child.

Cliffs. Note training day is changed to

Four teams from our academy, together with teams from Geraldine P Moran’s, travelled to the host club Bray Emmet’s for a blitz.

7.30pm on Wednesday evenings in the Cliffs.

New players always welcome, contact Kevin 086 8449902. For more

They all had a great day and the

club information, contact secretary.

after match hot dogs went down a

shankill.dublin@gaa.ie or 086 3215087.

treat. Many thanks to all concerned.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Also, a big thank you to Gerry Doran

Join Shankill GAA Club. Your commu-

and Brendan Ellis for repairing our

nity, your GAA Club where you’re not

academy goal posts which suffered

just a number and everybody knows

some damage recently.

your name.

Got a story? we want to know!



Call our sport team on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 3

or email sport@dublingazette.com

32 DUN Laoghaire Gazette 1 October 2015