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NOV 24 - 30, 2016 Find us on
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Santa: Get your skates on kids - I’m on my way DUN Laoghaire is being transformed into a winter wonderland this weekend – and the man himself has been in touch to tell the kids he’s on his way. Mr Santa Claus contacted An Cathoirleach Cormac Devlin this week to say he’d be arriving on Saturday. Speaking exclusively to The Gazette
Cllr Devlin revealed: “I spoke to Santa last night via satellite link-up and he told me that he’s very much looking forward to seeing all the boys and girls who come to visit him. “He said the traffic in the North Pole was ‘brutal’ but he’ll still here be in time for the fireworks display this weekend.”
This year’s six-week long Christmas Festival on Ice begins tomorrow and will run all the way into the New Year. It will be packed with exciting family events and attractions throughout the town centre – including the fantastic 3,500 sq ft ice rink at dlr LexIcon Garden which opens tomorrow.
The following evening, Mr Claus will touch down at Harbour Plaza, and a magnificent fireworks display will illuminate the night sky to officially turn on the Christmas lights. Mr Claus will then take up residence in his magical grotto in Dun Laoghaire shopping centre.
2 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 24 November 2016
HOUSING | HIGH RENTS ADDING TO HOMELESS CRISIS
FASTNews
EMMA NOLAN
Rasam restaurant wins best waste prevention
Protesters demand new council homes A PROTEST took place in Dun Laoghaire last week by the Demand Housing Now campaign. Protesters gathered outside the Council’s offices for the arrival of the Minister for Housing Simon Coveney. The Minister was in Dun Laoghaire to address councillors on the Government’s housing strategy and to listen to the particular housing difficulties that face the area. The protest was attended by people who say they are suffering as a direct result of the housing crisis and a clear message was sent to the Minister, with chants of, “We need Council housing now!”
AAA-PBP deputy Richard Boyd Barrett was also in attendance. In the past year the demand for social housing and the rising number of homeless has reached an unprecedented level in the County. Inside the meeting, some councillors said that schemes such as RAS and HAP were “not sustainable” given that Dun Laoghaire has some of the highest rents in the country, with the price of an average three bed to rent now at €2,280 per month. The protesters demanded that the Minister and the Council take the emergency measures that they believe are needed – one of which being the social homes in Cher-
rywood that they claim should be fast tracked and supplied. T hey claimed this would free up 800 homes and help alleviate the Council waiting list that now stands at 5,742 families and individuals waiting for a home. Speaking af ter the protest, Cllr Hugh Lewis PBPA said that the Council was struggling to provide emergency accommodation to meet current needs. “People with average and low incomes cannot afford to live in the County and are now waiting up to 19 years for an offer of a Council home,” he said. “Unless the Minister and the Council take the necessary measures
AISLING KENNEDY
Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett
immediately such as fasttracking promised Council homes and provide the extra staff resources that can pro-actively help people on the brink of homelessness seek rental accommodation then the
crisis is inevitably going to deepen. The Government and the Council have all that is necessary to return to constructing traditional Council housing if the political will was there.”
GazetteGALLERY | VIVID VISIONS FROM THE PALE PROJECT
Where you live!
Lexicon Librarian Marion Keyes with Sarah Webb
Selina Guinness (centre) with contributors, Sara Hanley and Denise French.
Contributor Sheila Robinson
Project founder Selina Guinness
writer in residence 2016-17
The Pale Project which was launched recently in the Lexicon Libary looks at what it means to inhabit a place or how it might shape our daily lives, habits and our dreams. The exhibition is open to the public.
RASAM restaurant in Glasthule has won the award for best waste prevention at the 10th anniversary of the EnviroCom Awards. They were awarded the honour having increased their recycling rate by 73% in just 20 months which now stands at 100% and a zero waste to landfill. Rasam restaurant, an award winning Indian restaurant based in Dun Laoghaire, has been working in collaboration with the City Bin Company for over a decade to transform their waste management practices into a ‘zero waste landfill.’ The EnviroCom Awards took place at the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire recently and were hosted by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Chamber in association with Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council.
Dun Laoghaire Ferry Terminal now for rent
THE former Ferry Terminal in Dun Laoghaire is now available to rent. The building on St Michael’s Pier (above) is now on the letting market with Lisney at €215 per sq m (€20 per sq ft) for a 10-year lease. The decision by Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company to rent the terminal comes as permission was granted by An Bord Pleanala last week for an €18 million cruise ship berth in the harbour. Built 20 years ago, the ferry terminal building was built to provide duty free shopping and departure/arrival facilities for foot passengers, departure. It was last used by Stena in 2015 and more recently part of which recently provided space for the popular Shackleton Exhibition at the front. The property briefly comprises an extensive two storey former ferry terminal premises and offers a wide range of space options. Ross Shorten of Lisney said that the lease offer will “appeal to larger space occupiers seeking a longer term over which to reap the benefits of any conversion capital investment into rearranging the space to suit their needs”.
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SYLVIA POWNALL A DUBLIN choir will see its Christmas dream come true this year – just months after the man who set it all in motion passed away. The Park Singers, founded in 1970 by Dr Sean Creamer (right) in the Phoenix Park, will launch their first ever Christmas CD at a gala concert in Christchurch Cathedral.
But sadly Sean, who also founded both the National Children’s and the Dublin Secondary Schoolgirls’ choirs, died earlier this year. Choir spokesperson Maria Murray said: “We have wanted to do a Christmas CD for years. Christchurch is the ideal place for the launch – beautiful acoustics in a beautiful, historic setting. “Sean was very well known in educational circles, as well as in choral circles and in
many primary and secondary schools. Unfortunately, he passed away only five months ago.” The concert on Sunday, December 4 ,will be a bittersweet experience for the 35-strong choir and director Orla Gillan, since Sean won’t get to see them realise a long-held ambition. But they are determined to do him proud with a festive and uplifting evening of carols by candlelight including O Holy Night, Carol of the Bells and Silent Night – along with new Christ-
mas material. The Parks are also excited to be launching their Christmas CD ‘The Park Singers Christmas Songbook’ on the night. The Park Singers are determined to keep Sean’s legacy going and are urging anyone who shares their love of Christmas carols to get their ticket for the event early. Tickets cost €10 plus booking fee are available from christchurchtickets.com.
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CHERRYWOOD | AMENITY IS GRANTED PLANNING PERMISSION
FASTNews
EMMA NOLAN
help to raise funds for Special Olympics
Massive new park plan gets go-ahead Take the plunge and A GREEN space the size of Marlay Park in the Cherrywood development has just been granted planning permission. Ticknick Park is the biggest park to date for the new town in near Loughlinstown. The first phase of development of the park will span an area of over 19 hectares and will deliver the flagship amenity and outdoor recreation space for Cherrywood. Future additional expansion
will ultimately see Ticknick grow to a scale equivalent to Marlay Park. Developers, Hines Ireland confirmed that initially, the park will boast four multi-use pitches for field sports, a pavilion building with changing room facilities, paths and walking routes for jogging and connecting walkways to the Dublin Mountain Way hiking routes. Senior managing director for Hines Ireland, Brian Moran, said that this is an “exciting time” for Cherrywood.
This approval follows recent planning permissions for a major new road network for the town and its other new parks – Beckett Park and Tully Park. Thriving The development of Ticknick Park is part of the important first phase of development which will precede the construction of a new town centre and 4,000 new homes within Hines’ landholding at Cherrywood. “At the heart of every community is a thriving living and recreation space and with over 47 acres
of playing pitches, dedicated walking routes and cycle paths now under development, the residents of Cherrywood will benefit from Ticknick Park’s great facilities and breath-taking views of the Dublin Mountains, Ballycorus Leadmines and both Dublin and Killiney Bay,” Brian Moran said. A detailed planning application for the new Cherrywood Town Centre, including a major retail centre, cinema, other leisure uses, restaurants and apartments will be submitted in the coming months.
GazetteGALLERY | ‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE ...
A ‘Polar Plunge’ will take place at the Forty Foot, Sandycove on December 3 and people from all around Dublin are invited to join in. Last year, hundreds of people including families, sports clubs, businesses and individuals turned out to take part in this fundraising event, bravely plunging into icy cold waters. All proceeds raised will go to Special Olympics who are hoping that this year’s event will raise much-needed funds for the organisation and its athletes. The sports charity is gearing up to send 26 athletes to Austria next March, enabling them to compete in the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2017. If you would like to take part register at www.specialolympics.ie/polarplunge Registration costs E15 with plungers asked to raise an additional €35. The full €50 goes directly to supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities in sport and competitions. Plungers who raise more than €50 will also receive a complimentary Polar Plunge t-shirt.
Economist recognised for outstanding service The mighty man himself - Santa Freya Carlyle with Mackenzie and Amira Clarke
Santa arrives THE excitement was truly palpable as Santa arrived by Fire Engine to Nutgrove Shopping Centre complete with jingle bells & ho, ho, hos, much to delight of the awaiting crowd. The big man was accompanied by plenty of friends including Mrs. Claus, Elfie the Juggling Elf, Flipper the Penguin, Face painters, and much more! The magical smiles on all the little faces says it all!
Dr TK Whitaker, a renowned Irish economist, has been formally recognised by Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council (DLRCC) for his outstanding contribution to Irish public service and to society. The award was accepted by Ken Whitaker on behalf of his father. Dr Whitaker was formally acknowledged for the pivotal role he played in the economic, social, educational, political and cultural development of the Irish State as he approaches his centenary year in December. Speaking at the event, An Cathaoirleach of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Cllr Cormac Devlin, said “Dr. Whitaker has been a hero of mine for a long time and recognising him for his outstanding contribution was a key priority for me in my role as Cathaoirleach.”
Ken Whittaker was on hand at the presentation to Sorcha and David Kielty
Reece Roberts and Josh Tille
honour his father T K Whittaker. Picture: Peter Cavanagh
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GazetteGALLERY
| FRESH IDEAS AND YOUTHFUL CONCERNS IN PROGRESS
Pictured left to right are Molly Doyle, Ballinteer Community School, George Santos, St. Tiernan’s Community School, Ballinteer, Alannah Morton, Cabinteely Community School and Flora Mwele, St. Tiernan’s Community
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School, Ballinteer. Pictured left to right are Flora Mwele, St. Tiernan’s Community School, Ballinteer. and Alannah Morton, Cabinteely Community School
Great ideas from the youth of today C
ounty Hall was the venue for the AGM of the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Comhairle na nÓg last week. Comhairle na nÓg are child and youth councils in the 31 local authorities of the country, which give children and young people the opportunity to be involved in the development of local services and policies.
Pictured left to right are Petra ní Catháin-Rafferty, Councillor Cormac Devlin, Cathaoirleach of Dún LaoghaireRathdown County Council, Molly deBrún and Síle ní Mhurchú, all pupils of Coláiste Íosagáin
Pictured left to right are Holly Leech, Ana McKiernan and Lucy Greene, Wesley College, Dundrum
Discussing and debating local services and policies
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DUBLINGazetteGALLERY |
The moment everyone has been waiting for arrives
Let there be lights
A SPARKLY HUE DESCENDS UPON HENRY STREET
Lexi and Tadhg with their mum
T
HOUSANDS of people turned out on a cold and damp Henry Street to see the Christmas lights turned on. The festive spirit was alive and well with free family entertainment from Glenn & Ronan, the Hallelujah Gospel Choir and the Swing Cats. Dubliners will see a difference on the street this year – out go the circular wreaths that have been there for nearly nine years, and in comes a new set with a new design.
Callum Kerrigan with Santa
Sophie and her dad enjoying the festivities. Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON
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SUPERMARKET SWEEP
Win your Christmas shopping in a dash
DUBLINGazetteGALLERY |
HUAWEI SNAPYS
Anthony, Sean and Jenniellen Bowe practice their dash. Pictures: Mark Stedman/Photcall Ireland
FROM now until December 4, Lidl Ireland is offering its Dublin customers a chance to win their entire Christmas shopping with Lidl’s Christmas Trolley Dash. Winners will be challenged “Supermarket Sweep” style to dash around their local Lidl store and grab as much of their Christmas shopping as possible in just two minutes! 100% of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Lidl’s charity partner, Barretstown, and customers can simply purchase a ticket for €1 at the checkout of any Lidl store nationwide. Last year, Lidl’s Christmas Trolley Dash raised over €280,000 and tickets sales are expected to increase even more this year. Tickets can be bought at checkouts nationwide right up until Sunday, December 4. Customers can enter as many times as they like and one winner will be chosen at random from each of Lidl’s 147 stores. The Trolley Dash will take place in every Lidl store on either December 10 or 17 at 8am. Speaking about the Trolley Dash competition, Dee Ahearn, CEO of Barretstown, said: “Barretstown offers free, medically endorsed camps for chil-
dren and their families living with cancer and other serious illnesses. Each year Barretstown needs €4.8 million to run these camps. This would not be possible without the support of CSR initiatives such as the Lidl Christmas Trolley Dash, and the generosity of Lidl staff and customers. As well as that, it is a wonderful opportunity for 147 families in Ireland to win their entire Christmas shopping and some lovely goodies just in time for Christmas.” If you’re lucky enough to be one of the Lidl Christmas Trolley Dash winners, here are a few top tips to keep in mind before dashing down the aisles; • Practice, practice, practice! • Visit the store before your dash and familiarise yourself with the layout • Most Trolley Dash winners will want to stock up on food for Christmas. Make a list and keep an eye out for Lidl’s Christmas Deluxe and Favorina goodies to fill your trolley • Don’t panic! Dash through one aisle at a time so you don’t miss anything For more information about the Lidl Christmas Trolley Dash competition and terms and conditions, see http://www.lidl.ie/ en/7520.htm
Emma O’Gorman and Laura Mc Carthy
Model, television and radio personality Vogue Williams. Pictures: Kyran O’Brien
Jijay Shew and Norah Casey
24 November 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 11
RETURNS TO MANSION HOUSE FOR SECOND AWARD SHOW
FASTNews
The award-winning Powerscourt Hotel
Powerscourt crowned Ireland’s leading hotel at World Travel Awards IAN BEGLEY
Model Holly Carpenter
THE iconic Powerscourt Hotel, Resort & Spa – located only 30 minutes from the centre of Dublin – has been crowned Ireland’s Leading Hotel 2016 at the 23rd World Travel Awards. The plush Wicklow hotel came up trumps against very worthy opponents in an event which welcomed hundreds of hospitality leaders from all around the globe. Delighted in receiving the award, Ian Wynne, General Manager of Powerscourt Hotel, Resort and Spa said: “We are exceptionally pleased and indeed proud to be voted Ireland’s Leading Hotel 2016 at the prestigious World Travel Awards. “It is a great accolade and recognition for the entire team at Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa, of their unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding guests’ experiences.” Prestigious The luxurious Powerscourt Hotel, Resort & Spa also holds the title of AA Hotel of the Year in 2015/16, – the most prestigious recognition in the Irish hospitality industry. Set amidst one of the most scenic and historic estates in the country, the 200-room resort showcases Palladian-style architecture and offers guests a host of amenities. Two championship-calibre golf courses, a 30,000-square foot luxury spa by multi award-winning ESPA and a signature AA rosettes awarded Sika restaurant are among the hotel’s attractions.
Grafton St rent amongst the world’s most dearest GRAFTON Street, the capital’s premier shopping street has been named one of the most expensive places in the entire world to rent, new figures have revealed. The iconic Dublin 2 street came in 13th on the Cushman and Wakefield Main Streets Across the World index. The southside thoroughfare is pricier than the iconic Kalverstraat in Amsterdam and Barcelona’s bustling Portal de L’Angel, Dublin Live reports. It costs just over €3,300 per year to rent a square meter of land on Grafton Street. Fifth Avenue in New York topped the list, while streets in Vienna, Munich, Sydney, Milan and Tokyo all finished ahead of Ireland.
Model Thalia Heffernan and James Kavanagh
Make it Snapy T
HE Huawei Snapys returned to the Mansion House for their second award show with comedian Deirdre O’Kane acting as MC. Guests on the night included models Holly Carpenter, Thalia Heffernan and Suzie D and bloggers Grace Mongey and Timi Ogunyemi. Vogue Williams performed a DJ set and there was a special performance from 80s group Springbreak.
Stand-up comedian and actress Deirdre O’Kane
GAZETTE
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DUBLINBUSINESS NEW NETWORK | PROVIDING SUPPORTS TO FEMALE EMPLOYEES
Fujitsu launches initiative to encourage divHERsity IAN BEGLEY TV3 presenter Martin King with Noel Keeley, MD of Musgrave MarketPlace
Musgrave MarketPlace announces €2.2m upgrade of its Ballymun store MUSGRAVE MarketPlace has unveiled a €2.2m upgraded Ballymun store, located off St Margaret’s Road. The store’s renovation forms part of an ongoing commitment from the wholesaler to deliver first class customer service experience and unrivalled product offerings to its customers. At 75,000 square feet overall, the new Ballymum store has increased in size by 20% and positions itself as the ‘cash
Businesses asked to ‘help save our bees’ IRISH businesses are being called on to take action in helping to save the bees. The National Biodiversity Data Centre and Bord Bia have launched a Framework for Businesses as part of the AllIreland Pollinator Plan, which identifies actions that companies can take to help protect pollinators and the livelihoods of farmers who rely on their invaluable pollination service. Irish pollinators are in decline, with one third of Ireland’s 98 bee species threatened by extinction in Ireland.
and carry of the future’, with a range of new speciality areas and stateof-the art technology to offer retail and foodservice customers a best-inclass shopping experience. Customers will now avail of free wifi, self-scan store entry and touchscreens which have been installed throughout the cash and carry to provide access to the wider range available from the central distribution warehouse in Blanchardstown. The annual value of pollinators for human food crops is at least €53 million. Speaking at the launch, Dr Jane Stout, deputy chair of the All Ireland Pollinator Plan Steering Group, said, “Without pollinators it would be impossible for farmers or gardeners to affordably produce many of the fruits and vegetables we need for a healthy diet. Pollinators are also necessary for a healthy environment and landscape. Without them, the 78% of wild plants in Ireland that require insect pollination would disappear. The plan, makes Ireland one of the first countries in Europe with an approach to address this problem.”
FUJITSU Ireland has launched the Women’s Business Network @ Fujitsu, a new initiative aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion amongst its workforce and associated work practices. The network will provide the following supports to female Fujitsu Ireland employees. O ve r t h e n e x t 1 2 months the network will host an inspiring lineup of speakers, themed events and a number of forums to discuss the challenges and issues facing women in business and celebrating those women who have inspired both within and outside of the technology sector. The network aims to get both sexes discussing the issues of working in maledominated industries and to help understand each other better. Organisers
I.T. giant Fujitsu has moved to promote diversity and inclusion amongst its Irish workforce
hope the programme can strengthen and boost the professional relationships of Fujitsu Ireland members whilst unlocking the value that diversity presents.
Veronica Rahneberg, sales director Fujitsu Ireland said: “This is a great initiative that will benefit not only female colleagues but also Fujitsu Ireland as a whole. It is our hope that
this network will serve as a launch pad for our employees to build on their success to date and ultimately reach their full potential, influencing an affecting change at the
highest levels. “We see this initiative as not only benefiting Fujitsu Ireland but also the broader global Fujitsu network and ultimately our client partners.”
EpiCor Therapeutics wins start-up of the year award EpiCor Therapeutics, an earlystage biotech start-up, has won University College Dublin’s (UCD) 2016 Start-Up of the Year Award. The start-up won the award and a €20,000 prize, after being declared overall winner of the 2016 UCD VentureLaunch Accelerator Programme. EpiCor Therapeutics is developing new disease-modifying treatments that target the mechanisms underlying the development of heart failure. The initial focus of EpiCor Therapeutics is to repurpose an existing drug, 5-azacytidine, for the treatment of a devastating heart disease called hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM).
The disease currently affects around 175,000 people, with associated annual healthcare costs of over $1 billion, in the US alone. HOCM is a disease in which a portion of the heart muscle is enlarged without any obvious cause resulting in impairment of the heart. The disease, which has no approved disease-modifying therapeutics, is a significant cause of sudden cardiac death of individuals in any age group, and a leading cause of such death in young athletes. Research carried out at UCD by the start-up co-founders indicates that this drug targets the mechanisms that drive the abnormal thickening of the
heart muscle which results in the development of this disease. Dr John Baugh of EpiCor Therapeutics said: “It is an honour for us to win the 2016 UCD Start-up of the Year Award. It is
a great endorsement for us going forward as we work to develop treatments to target a variety of heart diseases, including our initial focus on hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy.”
Founders of EpiCor Therapeutics: Dr John Baugh; Dr Nadia Glezeva and Dr Chris Watson. Picture: Nick Bradshaw
24 November 2016 GAZETTE 13
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DUBLINLIFE
Paul Brady, legendary singer-songwriter
DIARY
Guinness Choir will put you into the festive spirit at St Patrick’s Cathedral THE Guinness Choir will be holding their much anticipated Christmas Concert in St Patrick’s Cathedral on December 4 at 6.30pm Following the success of last year’s event, singersongwriter Paul Brady will take to the stage as a special guest with the choir for a programme of classical choral music and carols. The concert will feature the choral suite of the Armed Man by Karl Jenkins, while the choir will also perform three separate short arrangements of the sacred work O Magnum Mysterium by Victoria, Gabrieli and Lauridsen, as well as traditional Christmas carols. Tickets are on sale now and are available from www.guinnesschoir.org, and by emailing guinnesschoirtickets@gmail.com.
FRESH NEW TALENT TO SHOWCASE WORK CHECK out the work of Ireland’s most talented young filmmakers at the Irish Film Institute on December 7. The Fresh Film Festival promotes the work of filmmakers between the ages of 13 and 18. Each year, hundreds of creative young folks armed with cameras and editing software submit their creations to Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards, with standouts entries being
selected for showcase at festivals and events all over the world. See the best of young people’s filmmaking in Ireland at the IFI, where you can also hear from the winners and get up close and personal with Q&A sessions. If you plan on entering Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year 2017, or just love watching films made by talented young filmmakers, this is the place to be.
CHECKING BACK IN TO FAWLTY TOWERS BASIL, Sybil and Manuel of Faulty Towers are coming to the Fitzpatrick’s Castle Hotel on Dec 6 and 7 to serve up an evening of fine dining, mayhem and a fest of comic delights to keep you laughing all the way to dessert. Basil is manic, Sybil domineering, and Manuel – of course – is hopelessly language-challenged. Everything that can go wrong, does in some beautifully controlled chaos. Just don’t mention the war! This multi-award winning show has been winning fans and accolades at Edinburgh, Melbourne and Adelaide Festivals for years and has played over 500 sell out shows in Ireland during the last eight years. Featuring all the best gags and a great meal, this is the loosely script-
ed, pitch-perfect ‘13th episode’ of the TV series which develops the characters made famous by John Cleese, Prunella Scales and Andrew Sachs. On the menu you’ll enjoy two hours of sidesplitting, belly-aching fun in this “eat, drink and laugh sensation”. Tickets are priced at 47.50 and can be purchased at www.paviliontheatre.ie/.
MUSICAL WORLDS COME TOGETHER FOR the very first time, the RTE National Symphony Orchestra are presenting Video Games Classics, a concert of major video game soundtracks and classical music hits. The massive orchestral scores of World of Warcraft, Resident Evil, Skyrim, Final Fantasy,
Advent Rising and Tetris all feature as do blockbuster classical numbers from The Planets, Mozart’s Requiem, The Firebird and Carmina Burana. Originally created for the World of Warcraft Expansion, Warlords of Draenor, the extended work Malach has become a fan favourite, garnering millions of YouTube views in its various incarnations. Soprano Sarah Shine joins for the video game classic, Tetris Opera and Advent Rising. Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man and classical hits by Debussy, Mussorgsky and Beethoven as featured in The Evil Within and Kingdom Hearts will make this a night to remember. This event is taking place at the National Concert Hall on Friday, December 2 at 8pm.
Faulty Towers - The Dining Experience develops the characters made famous by John Cleese, Prunella Scales and Andrew Sachs
24 November 2016 GAZETTE 15
APPEAL |
SR STAN LAUNCHES FOCUS IRELAND CAMPAIGN
GAZETTE
FEATURE
Campaign aims to end homophobic and transphobic bullying MOLLY O’CONNELL
Sister Stan pictured with Rachel Price from Focus Ireland and her two children Aaron and Meabh Compton at the launch of the Focus Ireland urgent Christmas appeal. Picture: Robbie Reynolds
‘It breaks my heart that 2,500 children could be homeless for Christmas’ IAN BEGLEY
SISTER Stan has launched Focus Ireland’s Christmas appeal with a hard-hitting campaign that highlights the record number of homeless. The new campaign makes an urgent appeal to people to donate to support Focus Ireland’s work challenging homelessness. More than 2,400 children and nearly 1,200 families are homeless in Ireland, according to latest figures. The campaign features TV, radio and outdoor ads and runs over the coming weeks leading up to Christmas. The outdoor ad features a mother and her child alongside the stark line: “Homelessness. We can’t live like this anymore.”
Focus Ireland launched the campaign outside Government Buildings in Dublin with an admobile featuring the charity’s new poster. Sr Stan spoke passionately of the terrible impact being homeless has on children – and families - as she said: “Christmas should be one of the happiest times of the year for children and their families. “However, it breaks my heart to think that up to 2,500 children will be homeless on Christmas Day this year. “I know from meeting families who are homeless that we support it’s the children who feel it the worst. “Many times a family who are homeless are often
squeezed into one hotel room – three or four people in one room, nowhere to cook or for children to play. There are also many single people and couples homeless and they all need a place to call home.” Sr Stan highlighted the vital role Focus Ireland’s lifeline services play in supporting people as Focus Ireland reported that its family team services have supported 230 families and just under 450 children in Dublin to secure a home and escape from the trauma of homelessness in the first 10 months of this year ( In partnership with the Dublin Region Homeless Executive and local authorities). The charity also supports hundreds of families who are
still homeless and living in hotels and B&Bs. One mother Gillian who was homeless but has now secured a home with support of Focus Ireland said: “When you have a home you don’t realise how lucky you are, my daughter was only two weeks old when we became homeless, I don’t think I’d even be here now if it wasn’t for Focus Ireland, I wake up every day now and think ‘I have a home’.” Focus Ireland said its new campaign aims to keep homelessness firmly on the public and political agenda in the countdown to Christmas. People can donate at www. focusireland.ie or 1850 204 205.”
ONE IN THREE young LGBT people aged 14 to 18 has attempted to take their own lives because of bullying, rejection and pressures to hide who they really are, according to a new study. The findings by LGBT youth group BeLonG To make the strong case that young people are being left behind as Ireland becomes more progressive and inclusive of the LGBT community. Last week, secondary schools across Ireland took part in BeLonG To’s Stand Up campaign. The aim of this initiative is to end homophobic and transphobic bullying in schools as well as encouraging a safe and supportive environment for young LGBT+ people. The study showed that bullying puts the mental health, wellbeing and potential of LGBT students at serious risk. It said students are still reporting high levels of LGBT bullying in Irish post primary schools. 67% of LGBT+ young people witnessed bullying of other LGBT students and over 50% of them personally experienced bullying. One in four missed or skipped school to avoid negative treatment due to being LGBT+. Minister for Education, Richard Bruton and BeLonG To are calling on even more post primary schools to participate this year to help address the issue. Moninne Griffith, Executive Director, BeLonG To said: “Despite the great progress we have made in Ireland with equality legislation and marriage equality, most LGBT students are still facing very tough situations in their schools - rejection, bullying and pressures to hide who they really are. This has devastating impacts on their levels of selfharm and suicide.” Richard Bruton TD, Minister for Education said: “I encourage every post primary school in Ireland to get involved in this excellent initiative to empower students to support their LGBT+ friends. “My Department has provided funding for this initiative since 2013 as part of the implementation of the Action Plan on Bullying. “We will be working hard over the coming year to continue to advance the Action Plan on Bullying and with Minister Zappone on the LGBT Youth Strategy.” The campaign also has a strong social media presence, and encourages young people to post pictures with friends, with the #StandUp2016, to show their support. Visit belongto.org for more information about the Stand-up Campaign.
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SYLVIA POWNALL
Let the good times roll
WIN
Q UA L I F I E D e n g i n e e r C l i n t o n Gannon has gone from designing bridges to customising skateboards as he puts his expertise to new use. The 36-year-old decided to pursue a career change during the recession – and as a skater and one-time ice hockey player, is not too surprised at what he’s ended up doing. Clinton, who has a skate shop in Tallaght and has just opened a second in Swords, said: “I always wanted to have my own business and I saw a gap in the market. “First off I set up a mobile roller disco and was doing that for a while. Some weeks were good, some not so good, but I noticed that a lot of parents were inquiring about skates. “So I set up a website and clocked up a good few sales and decided to open a shop.” Clinton, from Tallaght, started trading from a cold warehouse in 2014 before moving to his first shop, and opened his second outlet just over a month ago. He told The Gazette: “In Swords we’re getting a fantastic reaction from everyone who comes into the shop. The feedback is phenomenal. “The kids love the idea of customisation and because I’m an engineer I have a great insight into the mechanics and I can buy components and put them together to build up scooters or skates to meet specific requirements.” Clinton hopes the enthusiasm
shown for his GoSk8.ie outlets will encourage parents to buy their kids a set of wheels for Christmas to help keep them active. He said: “It’s a bit worrying to hear medical studies say that Ireland is set to become the most obese country in Europe. Of course diet is a big factor but you can’t underestimate the importance of exercise.” He prescribes exercise – but with a healthy dose of adrenaline and fun thrown in – via the largest range of Heelys in the country to inline and quad skates, skateboards, longboards, scooters and BMX bikes in either full size or mini. Studies show that aside from learning new skills and keeping fit partaking in extreme sports can give kids a mental boost. “Being able to face your fears and conquer them is surely something we’d all want our kids to possess,” said Clinton. “Sports like this aren’t about being reckless, they’re about setting sights on a challenge and training to meet it.” Clinton is passionate about what he does and GoSk8 sponsors upand-coming skateboarders and BMX riders, as well as actively promoting the fledgling sport of Roller Derby in Ireland. And who knows, if your little shredder turns out to be a skate prodigy, they might just end up emulating skateboard legend Tony Hawk, who’s thought to be worth a cool $120million.
GazetteGALLERY
| CONNOLLY HOSPITAL NURSING GRADUATES FOR 2016
Andy and Margaret Drew with their daughter Bernadette
Ciara Cox with her granny Olive. Left: Laura Smith Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON
Looking forward to a long and happy career
Laura Smith with her Dad Barry, mum Elizabeth and sister Louise
Sudha Thangaraj, Maria Dacalos and Sharon Leavy
an
in association with our friends at
IT’S YET ANOTHER GREAT GAZETTE READER GIVEAWAY
WE know you love Dublin Gazette giveaways, and by now you probably know we love them too! And we’re delighted to be able to give our readers the chance to win such a fantastic prize, with thanks to our good friends at Dublin-based online trading shop, ViberSTORE. We have two recon-
ditioned iPhone SEs – worth €399 each – to give away to two lucky readers. All you have to do is answer the following question: Which Dublin-based trading store will save you the most money when you shop online this Christmas?
You can post your answer on our Facebook iPhone page, or you can email your answer to competitions@ dublingazette.com – please be sure to put “iPhone comp” in the subject line. This year ViberSTORE has become Ireland’s No 1. Seller for iPhones and
iPads with over 10,000 happy customers and counting. ViberSTORE.ie sell only the very best iPhones and do not compromise on quality. You can contact ViberSTORE’s sales team on 01-427 9797 or simply order online on www.viberstore.ie
Leona Farrelly, Jennifer Fee, Laura Smith, Hannah Farrelly and Ciara Cox
Rachel McKeon with her family
Emma Brennan and Rachel McKeon
GAZETTE
18 GAZETTE 24 November 2016
DUBLINLIFE
O’Connell Street hairdressers colour their way to a top Peter Mark award EMMA NOLAN
THE biggest night in Irish hairdressing – the Peter Mark ColourTrophy awards – took place last week. On the night, the audience of more than 900 people were treated to a symphony of game-
changing hairstyles in the Double Tree Hilton Hotel. The overall winner was Peter Mark, O’ Connell Street, with hairdressers Nicole Murtagh and Megan Murphy taking home the prize for their work on their model Louise Gardiner (above).
What ‘supp’ with Roz and a possible treatment to help nourish your skin? EMMA NOLAN
“IF IT’S good enough for Roz Purcell then it’s good enough for me” – is what I said when I found out about Imedeen supplements. T hese tablets are skincare supplements that nourish skin from the inside out, targeting the layers of skin that creams don’t reach. The product comes in three offerings, which cater for varying skin ages; IMEDEEN Derma One tackles the
first signs of ageing and is suitable for women from 25 to 40 years of age; IMEDEEN Time Perfection is a more advanced formula and helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles for
women over 40; IMEDEEN Prime Renewal helps support the needs of post-menopausal skin for women over 50. Brand ambassador Roz Purcell (left) has been using Imedeen for several months now and says she has really noticed the difference. T he products are stocked in pharmacies nationwide and one month’s supply of the classic Derma One (suitable for all skin types aged 25 to 40) cost €39.99.
Irish-made Powder n Pout brushes could help perfect make-up IT’S time to brush up on our make-up application skills with Powder n Pout. Created by Irish make-up artist Aisling Cunningham, Powder n Pout brushes come in sets containing everything you need to create a picture-perfect look. Powder n Pout are hand-crafted professional yet affordable make-up brushes designed by Aisling herself. A five piece set for €50, The Flawless Five compact set is designed especially for those on-the-go, providing everything needed to create a staple look, without bulking up your beauty bag. Powder ‘n’ Pout is available in selected pharmacies across Ireland and online via the website at www.powdernpout.com.
24 November 2016 GAZETTE 19
Penneys
LOOK PERFECT FOR PARTIES THANKS TO
EMMA NOLAN Style Editor
CAN we take a moment to congratulate Penneys on what is probably their best party season collection yet? Ireland’s go-to shop has really nailed it this winter, and if you’re lucky enough to find any of these pieces in store in your size I would highly rec-
ommend purchasing immediately! As the usual Penneys prices apply, everything here is affordable. So, get a few of these bits and you won’t be in a panic figuring out what to wear for all your Christmassy nights outs (no Christmas jumpers, please). You’ll be killed saying “Thanks hun, Penneys!” all night, but for that pink velour jumpsuit, it’s worth it ...
GAZETTE
STYLE
GAZETTE
20 GAZETTE 24 November 2016
DUBLINLIFE
FASTNews
Fiat’s new Tipo hatchback returns to the market with a spacious car that’s competitively priced
Fiat returns spacious Tipo to the market Fiat has brought back the Tipo hatchback and station wagon range as it re-enters the C-segment of the Irish car market with the arrival of two new cars that claim roominess and practicality. The cars will be available at Fiat dealerships from January 1 and entry prices are competitive starting at €17,995 for the Fiat Tipo hatchback and €19,245 for the Tipo Station Wagon. The Tipo models will be available with five engine options. There are three petrol engines, a 1.4-litre 16v producing 95hp, a 1.4 T-Jet turbo petrol with 120hp and the 1.6-litre e-TorQ engine producing 110hp (combined exclusively to a six-speed, torque converter automatic transmission). The two turbo-diesel engines include a 1.3-litre MultiJet II producing 95hp and a 1.6-litre MultiJet II with an output of 120hp. The entry level diesel model comes with an official combined cycle fuel economy figure OF 76.3mpg and CO2 emission are 99g/km for both hatchback and Station Wagon. Fiat claims that the cars deliver class leading legroom and boot space and comes with a high specification from the entry models including air conditioning, Bluetooth and full size spare wheel on all versions.
Nissan replaces Primastar with new NV300 van NISSAN has launched a new NV300 van that replaces the Primastar model to complete its NV van range. The new van is available as panel van, crew van, or platform cab van and also combi passenger version. Nissan claims that the van is more practical than ever as it is designed to carry up to three standard Euro pallets even in entry L1 model. The load bay is 110mm longer and a hatch in the cabin bulkhead can be specified to allow for loads up to 3.75 metres and 4.15 metres long. Depending on the weight of the likely load, it’s possible to specify different versions of the NV300. For the panel van and crew van there are two Gross Vehicle Weights (2.7 or 2.9 tonne), permitting a payload of 1,073 – 1,310Kg. Four engine options are available on the NV300 all based on the Nissan’s trusted 1.6-litre dCi diesel engine that’s already in use in the Qashqai and X-Trail. Power outputs of 95hp, 120hp, 125hp and 145hp are available. The new NV300 is built in France, is backed by Nissan’s five-year/160,000 km warranty, which also applies to Nissan genuine accessories fitted to the vehicle.
The latest Megane offers fresh design with great deals
Hatchback drivers have a wider choice of cars than ever this year helped by the recent arrival of the new Renault Megane. Renault has transformed the car with new styling and loaded on the safety and driver features to give a different driving feeling to the French brand car. RENAULT launched a new version of the Megane hatchback car during the year adding to the wider than ever range of hatchback options for car buyers in the mid-range segment of the market. Renault’s latest offering is attractive to look at and comes with some significant technical changes. The new look of the fourth generation car is attractive; it sits marginally lower on the road and comes with a longer wheelbase. Renault now claims that the front and rear track widths are the widest in the class to add to improved stability. The front of the Megane is distinctive using always-on LED lights to give good effect. The rear has similar LED type lights, which are also permanently lit when the engine is switched on. There are significant
changes to the inside and it feels more quality in terms of touch for the controls, including steering wheel. It comes with a configurable 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) colour instrument display, R-LINK 2 connectivity systems via either a 7-inch landscape or 8.7-inch portrait tablet, Multi-Sense technology to personalise the driving experience. The higher specification GT versions get the addition of 4Control fourwheel steering. The Megane comes with a new 5-Star Euro NCAP safety rating well ahead of its launch. The safety gear is impressive including adaptive cruise control, active emergency braking and lane departure warning throughout the range, while connectivity via the R-Link 2 system is fitted to all models above the entry Expres-
sion versions. Standard safety features include ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, ESC (Electronic Stability Control) with traction and understeer control, speed limiter, Hill Start Assist, six airbags, seat belts with load limiters and pre-tensioners at the front, side impact protection bars and ISOFIX child-seat mounting points on the two outer rear seats. While Renault is offering a new petrol version of the Megane, I drove the entry level 1.5-litre turbodiesel Megane in GT specification during my test drive, using the wellestablished engine. This car is marginally more fuel efficient than before and the entry model now starts at 110bhp rather 90bhp in the previous versions. That fact alone adds a more competitive
The new look Renault Mégane has impressive modern styling and good space with impressive entry prices starting at €21,490, for the diesel version
Renault Megane 1.5 dCi
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine 1.5 litre Engine power 136hp 0 – 100km/hr 9.6 seconds Economy 27km/litre (3.7/100km or 76mpg) Fuel Tank Capacity 50 litre CO2 emissions 96g/km Road Tax Band A2 €180 Main Service 30,000km/12 months Euro NCAP Rating 5 Star 2016 Warranty 5 years/200,000km Entry Price €21,490
nature of the Megane offer as Renault aim to get the car into the top four in the market. This engine is cleaner and more fuel efficient than before, helping to lower running costs. Out on the road, it was possible to appreciate the engine power of
the Megane. The higher specification GT versions have more features, while engine power and performance are almost the same as the standard entry model. The Megane comes with a smooth six speed gearbox and in the GT version there was a sporty
24 November 2016 GAZETTE 21
GAZETTE
MOTORING
Volvo moves big car manufacture to China
The most popular model in the new Renault Mégane range will be the one powered by Renault’s 1.5 litre turbo-diesel engine, which in the new model comes with an entry power level of 110bhp.
feel to the driving experience. That was more of an engine sound and a solid handling experience rather than performance as the car is not the fastest in acceleration terms relative to the more usual diesel competition. Renault also has a 1.6litre diesel engine offering for a more true competitive analysis and that engine produces almost 20% more and torque. For most drivers the 1.5litre engine will be more than adequate and cost
effective. I took it across a range of different roads during my test drive afternoon. The official economy rate of 27km/litre (3.7/100km or 76mpg) is impressive against the competition and makes the new Megane one of the most economical cars in the midsize hatchback segment. In practice the car is truly economical and I found that I could achieve a range of over 900km on what is a modest size 40-litre capacity diesel
tank. This makes running costs very competitive at €0.26/km and they would be marginally better if the Megane can get market share to help lower the depreciation levels. The hatchback segment of the car market is now very competitive and the Renault Megane has ground to make up to win back market share. The entry pricing is competitive to start with coupled with competitive running costs. The car drives and
looks very well helped by the fact that it has a long wheelbase. There is comfortable space up front, while the foot-well area for the pedals is a little tight. The seats on the GT version are a shade too sporty giving a harsher driving experience on smaller roads. Rear legroom is tight and while there are two rear Iso-Fix mountings for child seats, the space is tight. The Megane also has a decent size boot, the big-
The Renault Mégane boot is among the most spacious in the segment giving 470 litres storage with the standard boot rising to over 1300 litres with all seats down, but unfortunately there is no spare wheel offered.
gest among the five top sellers that I’ve compared it with. Unfortunately the spare wheel is on the options list for entry models. This is a car that looks modern, has made good use of in-car technology and is rated very safe.
Add to that low running costs and Megane has to be on many 171 registration shopping lists. For car buyers the Megane offer will be price attractive starting at €21,490 for the diesel version, but that’s not alone the reason for considering it.
Volkswagen Golf gets a major update
Volkswagen’s new Golf for 2017 comes with some subtle design changes and a host of engine and technology updates
VOLKSWAGEN has given the Golf a major update for 2017 with subtle exterior design changes and significant extra features that give the popular car an enhanced technology status. This new Golf is the first compact car to feature gesture control. Golf will be available with a new and more efficient 1.5 TSI Evo petrol engine with active cylinder management to enhance fuel economy. This new Golf will be available with Volkswagen’s newly developed 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) will gradually replace all 6-speed DSGs for the Golf.
Gesture control can be used in various different menus. All it takes is a swipe gesture to move the horizontally arranged menu items left or right. This allows the driver to scroll through the main menu, change radio stations, flip through the playlist or browse through the picture viewer and albums in the media library. A “light flare” indicates which options can be operated by gesture control and operation is supported by visual interactive feedback. Successful swipes are also confirmed by a sound effect, which can be deactivated. Volkswagen claims that the new Golf
comes with a high-end infotainment system with the largest touch-screen display in its class. Volkswagen has expanded the range of online services with the new Golf including a new “Guide & Inform” system as well as “Security & Service” for models with a navigation system. The range of assistance systems in the new Golf will include city emergency braking with new pedestrian monitoring function, traffic jam assist and emergency assist for the first time. Externally there are new front and rear bumper sections. New full LED rear lights are fitted and new LED headlights replace all Xenon headlights.
VOLVO Cars has announced that it will manufacture its top-of-the-range S90 series cars at its plant in Daqing, Heilongjiang province, in northern China. It also announced that production of the new S90 premium saloon will in future be moved from Europe to China. Volvo currently operates two plants in Europe, in Sweden and Belgium. The Sweden plant in Gothenburg will continue to make 90 series and 60 series cars, while its plant in Ghent, Belgium, will in future be making new 40 series cars. Volvo is also building a new plant in South Carolina in the US market and for export. The Swedish Volvo brand is now owned by the Chinese based Geely Corporation who bought it from the Ford Motor Company in 2010.
Honda returns with Simple Logic deal HONDA’S 162 Simple Logic is back and this time it is available across Honda Jazz, Honda HR-V a n d Ho n d a C R-V models until the end of the year. The Honda offer includes a €4,000 guaranteed minimum trade–in offer on all CR-V and a €3,000 guaranteed minimum trade-in offer on all HR-V and Jazz models. This is coupled with low rate Personal Contract Plan (PCP) finance offers.
GAZETTE
22 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 24 November 2016
DUBLINLIFE
A night at the Oscars
O
scar’s night in Balbriggan last weekend saw the great and the good of the Moriarty Group lauded for their exceptional service and professionalism. At a dazzling ceremony in the Bracken Court Hotel no less than 55 employees of the popular local supermarket and hotels group won awards. Very much like Hollywood’s Oscars night, the Moriarty Group award-winners and their colleagues and guests partied long into the night proving the adage that those who work hard equally like to play hard too!
The Moriarty gang all glammed up and eagerly anticipating the Oscars. Pictures: STEPHEN FLEMING
Ciara Phelan and Holly Monks
Colm Jolley, Sean Boyd, Mike Fitzgerald, Mihaela Rus and Pat Gheman
Lynn Kavanagh, Patricia Doherty and Emily Ryan
24 November 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 23
GAZETTE
FOOD&DRINK
Hufi hits the shelves in bottle form
Festive favourites to get you in the spirit EMMA NOLAN
FEELING Christmassy yet? Get yourself in the spirit with a Festive Afternoon Tea in The Westin Hotel on Westmoreland Street. The Festive Afternoon Tea is served in front of a roaring fire in the Atrium Lounge. Get into the Christmas spirit by enjoying traditional
afternoon tea with a seasonal twist; think festive favourites such as roast turkey, spiced Irish beef, oak smoked salmon and almond topped mini mince pie. Then choose from an array of delicate, mouthwatering sandwiches, followed by a selection of enticing sweet treats - homemade cranberry and pecan scones
served with clotted cream and preserves, eggnog panna cotta, salted caramel mousse with brandy butter popcorn and raspberry macaroons. As always, guests can choose from the Westin’s selection of fine leaf teas or gourmet coffees, or enjoy a glass of prosecco or champagne for an extra special treat (€8/€16 supple-
ment respectively). Festive Afternoon Tea at the Westin Dublin’s is priced at €36 per person and can be enjoyed from December 1 until January 6. Pre-booking is required. For reser vations, please call the Atrium Lounge on 01 6451324 or email atrium@ thewestindublin.com
Nourish your skin from the inside out
HUFI, the new low calorie and gluten-free beer has just landed in bottle form in Ireland. The pilsner style lager has a distinctive crisp taste and is only 93 calories per bottle. With 43,000 people in Ireland reportedly intolerant of gluten, and many more leading a gluten-free lifestyle by choice, the demand for gluten-free foods is growing considerably, with many supermarkets offering an entire section dedicated to gluten-free products and restaurants offering tailor-made Coeliac friendly menus for Christmas. Hufi is also available in a 50cl can retailing at just €1.90. It’s available to buy in all good off-licences including Dunnes Stores with a special offer of six for €10, Supervalu, Tesco, Spar, Centra, Molloys, and Fine Wines.
EMMA NOLAN
“If it’s good enough for Roz Purcell then it’s good enough for me.” – is what I said when I found out about Imedeen supplements. These tablets are skincare supplements that nourish skin from the inside out, targeting the layers of skin that creams don’t reach. We’re well accustomed to taking supplements for a variety of reasons, so why not look after our skin with supplements too? The product comes in three offerings which cater for varying skin ages; IME-
DEEN Derma One tackles the first signs of ageing and is suitable for women from 25 to 40 years of age; Imedeen Time Perfection is a more advanced formula and helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles for women over 40-years-old; Imedeen Prime Renewal helps support the needs of post-menopausal skin for women over 50 years of age. Brand ambassador Roz Purcell has been using Imedeen for several months now and says she has really noticed the difference. The products are stocked in pharmacies nationwide and one month’s supply of the classic Derma One (suitable for all skin types aged 25 to 40) cost €39.99.
GAZETTE
24 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 24 November 2016
DUBLINLIFE
CINEMA ReelReviews
DOCTOR STRANGE Curiously interesting
WHILE Harry Potter fans lay siege to cinemas, Marvel’s Doctor Strange (Cert 12A, 115 mins) is still providing plenty of visual razzle-dazzle (and a touch of magic, too). Benedict Cumberbatch don a cape, gains strange and mystical powers, and helps Doctor Strange regain some much-needed humility as he and Tilda Swinton create a visually striking and memorable addition to the Marvel cineverse.
Eddie Redmayne (centre) heads up an all-star cast
Rowling’s new franchise is off to a fantastic start IF there were any concerns over whether JK Rowling would succeed in expanding the “wizarding” world outside of her much-beloved (and commercially bulletproof) Harry Potter series, this year’s Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, will comfortably lay those fears to rest. Despite an overlong run-time for what is ostensibly a kid’s movie, this prequel, directed by Potter franchise regular David Yates, kicks the door wide open for a brand new franchise and has a wonderful, riotously good time doing it. Set 70 years before the original series, Fantastic Beasts migrates the action to prohibition-era
MARTIN MACNAMARA
New York City with a surprisingly current thematic commentary, despite its fantastical subject. E d d i e R e d m ay n e , whose awkward charm has rarely been this endearing, plays Newt Scamander. As a “magizoologist,” Newt spends his time travelling the world saving magical creatures from extinction. After arriving in New York, one of his “fantastic beasts” incites a rather chaotic incident involv-
ing a human, Jacob (Dan Fogler). Consequently, Newt finds himself in the custody of former “Magical Congress of the United States” agent, Tina Goldstein (Katherine Waterston). Fortunately for us, further magical chaos ensues when Newt’s suitcase full of beasts is misplaced, its contents escaping and reeking havoc on the city. Meanwhile, darker forces trouble both the wizarding and ‘No-Maj’ worlds Newt, Tina and Jacob get caught up in the middle. The story, written by Rowling, maintains all the whimsical fantasy of her original series, but underlines everything with some fairly heavy subtext;
the differences between the British and American wizarding worlds go beyond common lexicon (Muggle/No-Maj). In the States, the divide between these worlds is far more volatile, allowing Rowling to craft a narrative around themes of intolerance, bigotry and social divides, with witchhunting fanatics standing in for lobbying religious groups – contemporary subjects indeed, given the current political state of the US. Rowling and Yates don’t probe too far into these issues – understandably so, for a familyfriendly adventure – and devote most of the twoand-a-quarter hour runtime to madcap chases
through the urban jungle of New York City. These theme-park style experiments in 3D break absorption, but are a delight to behold. Fantastic Beasts’ huge cast packs a couple surprise and it’s great to see Fogler make the leap out the realm of the character actor and into the commercial mainstream. Sure, there’s the odd fatjoke, but Fogler is given plenty to do and heaps of narrative weight to carry. Hopefully this will secure a few more high-profile roles for the actor. While Colin Farrell spends most of the plot brooding as Director of Magical Security Percival Graves, Samantha Morton menaces as the sinis-
ter leader of wizard-hating cultists, the “Second Salemers”. The real stars here, perhaps, are those behind the wonderful creature design, although the more humanoid characters could have benefited from some experimentation in the recent resurgence of practical effects. While it occasionally suffers from its lengthy run-time, an overabundance of admittedly necessary exposition and a somewhat incoherent narrative threat, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is enormous fun: a smart, fast-paced fantasy adventure and a wonderful beginning to Rowling’s new franchise. Verdict: 8/10
EDGE OF SEVENTEEN Teen spirit impresses
WE’RE still praising The Edge of Seventeen (Cert 15A, 105 mins), as its teen cast and dilemmas are, for once, pretty entertaining for even adults to sit through. A great cast have fun with their material, and while there’s some depth to some of the situations, for the most part its a witty, breezy and likeable film – and how rare is all that to find in a film for teens? Its one to watch, for sure.
PATERSON
Pure poetry in motion A FILM about a poetic bus driver may not sound like much – and in truth, there’s not a lot going on in Paterson (Cert 15A, 118 mins). However, sometimes less is definitely more, and director Jim Jarmusch has turned in a dreamy, contemplative and almost hypnotic tale about the ordinary being extraordinary, if you just consider it with fresh, thoughtful eyes.
24 November 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 25
GAZETTE
TECH
Uncharted 4 boasts more color variations and crisper details
CONSOLES: SONY HAS OPTED TO UPGRADE THE PS4 TO PUSH 4K GAMING FORWARD
PS4 Pro takes gaming to the next level
IAN BEGLEY
THE PS4 Pro is here at last and Playstation 4 games have never looked so good. The console offers a significant improvement over the existing PS4 title and features 4K output alongside HDR playback capabilities and upgraded internals components that will help games run smoother with even more details. Developers are now able to start creating games with two modes – PS4 base mode, and “Pro Mode” – that is more taxing and power-consuming than the original system can handle. After experiencing what the new console is capable of – highly
detailed 4K/HDR gameplay, Ultra-HD media streaming from apps like Netflix and the new Pro Mode – I compared it to the now out of date PS4 system I have at home The most obvious difference between the original PS4 and the PS4 Pro is the addition of an extra layer onto the console. While the original PS4 had two layers separated by a gap for the disc drive and two USB ports, the PS4 Pro has three layers. This is the big one – the main reason it’s worth making the jump from the original hardware to the PS4 Pro. The PS4 Pro supports 4K output, as opposed to the standard
With enhanced features on PS4 Pro, Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare takes the signature gameplay of the series into a bold new entry
Tanks will look more realistic and vibrant in World of Tanks
PS4’s Full HD 1080p resolution. When it comes to streaming services such as Netflix this means that the console will be able to play movies and TV shows in their maximum resolution, but unfortunately the lack of an Ultra HD Blu-ray drive means that the console will not be able to play physical 4K media. Games are slightly more complicated because it will be up to developers to decide how they want to use the PS4 Pro’s extra muscle. The PS4 Pro is undoubtedly a substantial step up from the PS4, but ‘true’ 4K gaming is difficult for it to achieve without compromise.
26 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 24 November 2016
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28 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 24 November 2016
SPORT
FastSport CHRISTMAS TOP SPOT FOR BELVO: OLD Belvedere will go into the New Year as women’s All-Ireland league leaders after their eight-point victory over Galwegians at Anglesea Road, 18-10. The hosts worked their way into a 10-0 lead in the first half with tries from hooker Jenny Finlay, deploying the afterburners of a winger, and Franziska Klappoth with a mazy run. Ciara O’Connor pulled a try back for Galwegians before half-time. Laura Feely levelled the game with a try midway through the second half, but Finlay, who had a magnificent game, popped up with her second try. Jenny Murphy, who normally plays at centre, was in the number 10 role today and landed the clinching penalty that gave Old Belvedere an 18-10 verdict. “It was a strange game with plenty of turnovers,” said Ruth McElroy of Old Belvedere. “Jenny Murphy’s tactical kicking was excellent and when we did manage to keep the ball and go through phases, we played well.”
CROSS COUNTRY: CLONLIFFE HARRIER LOOKING TO BREAK INTO IRISH TEAM
Flynn’s bid for Euro squad spot
JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com
CLONLIFFE Harrier David Flynn has his eyes on one-upping last year’s role as an alternate on the Irish team for the European Cross Country Championship as he aims for a top six position in Abbot-
stown this weekend at the Irish championships. Flynn – who recovered from injury to finish just outside a place that would have qualified him for a European starting spot last time around – feels he’s better prepared in 2016, having relocated to Letterkenny for training
purposes. “ I t r i e d a d i f f e rent approach this time around,” Fly nn told GazetteSport. “My coach is Andrew Kastor [husband and coach of Olympic marathon star Deena Kastor], and I’ve been following his program from here in Ireland.
Flynn winning the Liberties 6k during the summer
David Flynn impressing during a race in Burgos, Spain recently
“I’ve relocated to Letterkenny for my base season [which focuses on building distance endurance], and found living in a different environment has helped me focus on what I’m doing for training. “In 2013, I was part of a University of Arkansas team that had an unbelievable set up and won the national championship,” Flynn recalled. “We were flown to the White House on a private jet to have dinner with Obama. It’s a bit different coming back to Ireland, especially as everyone knows everyone. “There’s an element of trying to keep what you’re doing in training secret that stops people working together. The States is so big that it doesn’t really work that way. I
need to rebuild my reputation, which can be difficult after being out of the country.” Flynn also missed out on the elite performance program that came into effect with Athletics Ireland this year. “I thought I had a good argument,” he says, adding that he believes qualifying on Sunday might help his case for next year. He accepts that training in part in California – which he does as part of an elite training squad year on year – is a difficulty for the program, but hopes to gain access to facilities like blood and VO2max testing that are vital at an elite level. “I’m a full time, professional athlete,” he said. “I get a lot of support and sponsorship from Skecher’s and I think I’ve learnt
from last year. It’s a tough competition in Abbotstown [over the weekend]. I’ll be running the course on the Wednesday ahead of the race to trial it. But I pretty much know what I’m up against on the start line. “I’ve learnt a lot this year,” he concluded. “It’s the Irish way to be charging out at the front in training; to always be giving 110%. I’ve learned to give 80 or 90% in training and run with the pack, and to save that for the races. “I’m in really good shape and this course is designed to more closely match the European courses. It’s in great condition and a bit different to [regular venue] Santry. Qualifying will make a big difference to my winter.”
Leinster call-ups for Dublin’s Football for All stars sport@dublingazette.com
Cabinteely Cougars have been at the forefront of the Football For All club programme. Picture: cabinteelyfc.ie
PLAYERS from Malahide United, Lourdes Celtic, Cabinteely and Sacred Heart have all been named in the first ever Interprovincial match between Leinster and Munster Football For All teams The event will take place in Evergreen FC, Kilkenny on Saturday, December 3 with the two squads selected from trials in each region where over 25 players took part to seal one of 18 places in each squad. The Leinster squad, who have Kyle Mates, Brian Walsh and
Chris McElligott, have brought players together from around Dublin as well as from Kildare Town. This match represents a big step forward for the FAI’s Football For All Club programme, which was set up in 2010, and provides opportunities to people with disabilities from communities around the country. “We are really excited to host the first ever Interprovincial Football For All club inter-regional match and to use the excellent facilities at Evergreen FC in Kilkenny. It is going to be landmark
day for the programme and for the players and coaches involved,” said Oisin Jordan, Football For All National Coordinator. “The Football For All programme now boasts 33 clubs around the country and we have plans to expand again in 2017. “We want to continue to provide the best opportunities to players of all levels and the work being done at the respective clubs is terrific. “Even though these young players have a disability, we still want them to train and compete at a high standard.
“This interprovincial match, between two very talented squads, is something that we are all looking forward to. “The game will not only have a huge impact on these 36 players’ development but all future players who will get the opportunity to represent their regions.” Along with regular training at club level, regional blitzes and leagues have allowed children with varying abilities to enjoy football and excel in a competitive environment, while this 11-a-side match stokes up the rivalry of Leinster versus Munster.
24 November 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 29
GAZETTE
Fantastic Foxes earn All-Ireland final spot
FASTSport
Captain Brophy hails marking effort to nullify twin threats of Cora Staunton and Fiona McHale as FoxCab make key break despite suffering a second half sin-binning, to beat Mayo side ALL-IRELAND SFC SEMI Focrock Cabinteely 4-9 Carnacon (Mayo) 2-11 JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com
FOXROCK Cabinteely captain Sarah Brophy says her team’s personalised approach to the abundant Mayo stars in All-Ireland semi-finalists Carnacon’s side saw them through to a first ladies football final. Her side prevailed on a 4-9 to 2-11 scoreline in Bray and were in control for much of the tie. But a rough period early in the second half saw the legendary Cora Staunton – assisted by four other regular Mayo starters – push on. The full forward eventually notched 1-7 but the
Dublin side were composed and smart enough to accelerate away in a frantic encounter in spite of a sin-binning. “We went out to play as a team knowing she’d be their biggest threat,” Brophy said of Staunton, the ten-time All Star. “Niamh Collins did a great job on her and, in the middle of the field, Laura Nurney took out Fiona McHale. “We felt if we had those two players under control, the rest of our team would step up around that.” “The pressure’s quite high,” Brophy admitted of the game. “But you learn from the games before to get your mind in the right place. Once your mind is
in the right place, we’re physically fit enough and have the talent. It’s just about getting the mind right. In the first half, Amy Ring’s consistent free t a k i n g w a s ke e p i n g things balanced as both sides threatened. Amy Connolly scored the goal to give Cabo a half time lead at 1-5 to 1-2, with goalkeeper Laurie Ahern having made a stunning point blank save just before the break to keep the lead. The second half was a compelling affair, with Cabo stretching their lead through a neatly slotted goal from Laura Nerney, before Carnacon enjoyed a period of dominance, topped off as an Amy Dowling pot-
Foxrock/Cabinteely are one game away from winning their first ever All-Ireland title, adding to Dublin and Leinster crowns. Picture: Peter Hickey/GAApics.com
shot was fumbled into her own net in a misjudgement by Ahern. When Lorna Fusciardi was sin-binned for the Dubs, they looked in trouble, but not so, as two fantastic forward moves saw them took control a girl down, after the Dubs had dragged themselves level. First Connolly played in Sine-
you in the game,” the captain reflected. “I think when we got a yellow card, that really lifted us, and I think we ended up getting two goals when we down a player. “It was the same when their second goal went in. I think we responded quite well today when adverse things happened
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‘We fell at this hurdle last year and were kicking ourselves. It means everything after last year’ - Sarah Brophy -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ad Goldrick, who blasted under Mayo keeper Michelle Higgins. A couple of minutes later, Fiona Claffey was the provider, as she looped a ball across the face of Higgins’ goal for Anne-Marie Murphy to fist powerfully in. There were to be flashes of hope for Carnacon, who briefly closed the gap back to three points, but Cabo stretched the lead to beyond a score and then played out time. They held possession as the clock ran out for Staunton’s side in an exceptional contest, with Cabo taking a 4-9 to 2-11 win. “Amy Connolly was unreal,” Brophy added afterwards. “Every time there’s a ball to go for she gets on the end of it, and normally gets a score out of it. “It’s unusual what lifts
to us. “It’s very high intensity and if we create opportunities, we have excellent forwards who can finish them. “The girls really made a difference to us today. “They’re all such good finishers that you can give the ball to whoever’s in the best position, and it doesn’t matter who’s on the end of it, it doesn’t matter who’s there once someone gets it.” Foxrock Cabinteely go on to face Monaghan side and reigning All Ireland champions Donaghmoyne in the All Ireland final on December 4. “It means everything after last year,” she concluded. “We fell at this hurdle and we were kicking ourselves because we thought we had what it takes. Fortunately this time we did.”
Andrews and O’Neill launch annual Primary 5s blitzes REPUBLIC of Ireland Manager, Martin O’Neill and former international Keith Andrews were on hand to launch the SPAR FAI Primary School 5s Programme in Aviva Stadium. The five-a-side school blitzes are open to boys and girls from fourth, fifth and sixth class, and puts emphasis on fun and inclusivity. SPAR and the FAI are looking to trump last year’s participation figures, which saw 1,267 schools and 23,736 children lace up their boots to take to pitches around the country. Registration opens in December and closes on February 17, and county blitzes will kick off at the end of February. Winning schools progress from county level to regional then provincial finals with the lucky few making it all the way to the national finals, which will be held in the home of Irish football, Aviva Stadium, on May 31. The programme is an initiative organised by the Football Association of Ireland Schools (FAI Schools). SPAR’s support of the competition has been in place since 2015, and has seen participation figures grow to become the largest primary school’s competition in the country. Speaking about the programme Colin Donnelly, SPAR Sales Director commented: “SPAR are very proud to be involved with this programme which gives almost 24,000 boys and girls nationwide the opportunity to represent their school in a national level competition. “The level of enthusiasm shown by students and teachers taking part in the programme has been fantastic and is helping to drive the programme to new levels. Sean Carr, FAI Schools chairman added: “The competition has gone from strength to strength in recent years thanks to the assistance of our sponsors, SPAR. “The nationwide spread of schools who are choosing to take part, and the increase in female participation, which now stands at 9,320 students is particularly pleasing. I would encourage all primary schools to sign up, and experience the positive benefits of the programme first hand.”
GAZETTE
30 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 24 November 2016
SPORT
FASTSport
MMA: COWLEY STILL GUIDING RISING STARS WHILE PURSUING OWN DREAMS
O’Flanagan treble puts Hermes in pole position A SEVENTH successive win for HermesMonkstown in the women’s EY Hockey League saw the Merrion Fleet Arena side dig out the first piece of major daylight between them and the chasing pack. Their comfortable 5-0 win over Ulster Elks means they now have a four-point lead at the top of the table and well set for a return – even at this early stage – to the EY Champions Trophy. They were always in control but took a long time to break down the Elks defence. Anna O’Flanagan put the hosts ahead in the 14th minute when set up nicely by captain Nikki Evans to give Rebecca Davidson no chance. The first half was all about the Elks defence and, in particular, Davidson who was having a blinder. Elks did force two corners in the half but any danger was cleared, leaving the gap at the minimum, Early in the third quarter, O’Flanagan extended the lead in the 40th minute with a top class finish and, five minutes later, she had her hat trick after lovely work by Ellen Curran to set her up. Evans made it 4-0 thanks to a lovely team goal a minute later and Chloe Watkins converted a corner in the 46th minute to make it a quarter to forget for Elks. It proved the end of the scoring as Hermes-Monkstown eased to another strong victory. Elsewhere, chasers Cork Harlequins and UCD both ended up losing ground due to a a high octane 1-1 draw. UCD forced the first major chance after five minutes with a switch left seemingly destined for the roof of the net only for Emma Russell’s shot to come back off the underside of the crossbar. Both of the goals came in the second half with Rebecca Barry breaking the deadlock for Quins in the 38th minute when she got on the end of a right-wing cross from Yvonne O’Byrne But, for UCD, a cross from the right wing led to a goalmouth scramble which saw Sarah O’Loughlin sweep in at the back post and the leveller.
Cian Cowley on home turf at the Warriors Gym
Dun Laoghaire’s Thai fighter KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com
ANY mixed martial arts fighter who shows a glimmer of promise in Dublin these days is going to be compared to Conor McGregor, but Dun Laoghaire native Cian Cowley has more in common with the UFC star than simply sharing the same gym. Like McGregor, Cowley comes from a standing combat background with a supposed weakness on the ground. Cowley is still just 24 years of age but he is decorated beyond his years in Thai boxing – boasting
three national national titles and a four nation’s title among his accolades. He also runs his own successful gym, Warriors Thai Boxing Dublin, after his former coach showed huge faith in him by handing over the keys when he was just 19. Having already won so much in Thai boxing, he turned his attention to MMA last year in order to progress his career and provide for his family. “I was winning everything and going unbeaten for a while so I made the decision to move over to MMA as well,” he told GazetteSport. “I am still competing in Thai box-
DIVING LEGEND Eddie Heron inducted into Hall of Fame HILARY Finlay (nee Heron) became the custodian of a Swim Ireland Hall of Fame Award in honour of the late Eddie Heron for his legendary achievements in the diving world. Eddie won the British Diving Championship in 1932 and represented Ireland at the 1948 Olympic Games among many accolades. Finlay was presented the trophy by Sandycove Swimming Club’s Joe MacAvin and Bill Morrison. She said: “it is a great honour and it shall be greatly cherished.”
ing but focusing on MMA at the moment because there are bigger places I want to reach with that.” Making the switch has not been easy as many people have accused him of turning his back on his history to chase fame. “I have had a lot of people turn their backs on me since I made the decision to move to MMA but I didn’t just pack up and leave. I still run the gym and I’m at all the shows because I still coach 20 plus fighters in pure Thai boxing. “Some of them understand that I did it for my own career because I have a family now. That is the
reason I did it, I didn’t turn my back on it,” said Cowley. He made his MMA debut earlier this year – joining up with John Kavanagh at Straight Blast Gym – and lost but he has won his four fights since and continues to see his name listed among the new generation of fighters to look out for. “I had my debut in February after only three or four months training. I wasn’t rushed into it or anything because I was the one that was pushing it to my coach John. “It wasn’t like I got hammered or anything; it took me by surprise and
I was taken down. That was a big learning curve for me because since that I have gone 4-1-0 with back to back wins and I was comfortable when I got put to the ground.” Cowley received one of the biggest compliments of his career when he was drafted into McGregor’s camp for his rematch with Nate Diaz and it was plain to see that McGregor had adopted a kick-heavy tactic during that fight – a particular strength of Cowley. He is currently injured but counting the days until he can get back in the ring and continue his march towards the UFC.
24 November 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 31
GAZETTE
BOWING OUT
CLUB NOTICEBOARD
Crokes undone by first half Maggies’ triple
KILMACUD CROKES
KILMACUD Crokes Under-21 B footballers bowed out of the D championship at the hands of St Margaret’s at Silverpark, falling 2-6 to 4-18. Crokes were up against a physically strong Margaret’s side who finished the first half strongly, courtesy of three well-taken goals. The home side did come into it in the second half but Maggies stayed well clear.
WELL done to the minor camogie team
by our club sponsor BOI. Details are on
who have qualified for the champion-
the club website.
ship semi-final after topping their group by beating Cuala 2-8 to 0-8. Hard luck to the U-21 football B team
Please support our club Movemeber
who lost their championship match to
challenge. Details sent in e-mail and
St Margaret’s and the AFL4 team who
also on the web.
lost to St Finian’s 1-5 to 0-12.
Picture: Diarmuid O’Gallchobhair
HURLING: O’CALLAGHAN GOAL UNDERPINS BIG WIN
another Kick Start Crokes exercise and
tion and recognition night is on Satur-
wellness program which will begin in
day, November 26 at 8.30pm, supported
January.
SHANKILL LAST week’s lotto draw, which is spon-
crest and initials – are available now for
sored by Slimming World Shankill, saw 1,
delivery for Christmas. Order now at
6, 7 and 25 drawn; the jackpot was not
the Academy or via shankillclubgear@
won.
gmail.com.
Lucky dip winners were Kenny Flynn,
The U-8 and 9 boys had to great
Emma Smyth, and B Campbell. Next
games against St Killian’s in the Castle
week’s jackpot is a whopping €1,050
while the U-8 girls travelled to Bally-
and the draw is on Thursday in Brady’s
boden St Enda’s for a blitz.
The juvenile academy, sponsored by O’ Donnell’s Pharmacy, is on Saturday
LEINSTER SHC SEMI Cuala 1-19 St Mullin’s 1-7 sport@dublingazette.com
CUALA advanced to the Leinster club senior hurling championship final for the second year in-a-row following their 12-point, 1-19 to 1-7 victory over Carlow champions St Mullin’s in Netwatch Cullen Park on Sunday. The Dublin champions will be hoping to go one better than last year when the face Kilkenny’s O’Loughlin’s Gaels on December 4 after being edged out by Wexford’s Oulart-The Ballagh 12
months ago. “ O b v i o u s l y , O’Loughlins are going to bring a huge challenge. They’re Kilkenny champions,” Cuala boss Mattie Kenny said in the wake of the tie. “They’ve form in the All-Ireland series before. They’re going to be a serious challenge and we’re not underestimating what’s coming.” St Mullin’s got a great start when 11 minutes in John Murphy fired to the Cuala net to give them a 1-1 to 0-2 advantage. However, Cuala showed their class to outscore the Carlow men 0-7 to 0-2
before the break to lead 0-9 to 1-3 at the half-time interval. Eight minutes into the second half Con O’Callaghan followed up on his goal-scoring heroics of the previous round by adding another goal and Cuala were on their way with Seán Treacy playing a leading role for the Dalkey men. Mark Schutte set up the chance for O’Callaghan who rifled to the net as Cuala drove onto the final dreaming of becoming the first Dublin club since Crumlin in 1979 to taste provincial hurling senior honours.
And Kenny was quick to pay tribute to the hard yards put in by his team to get to this stage. “It’s what you expect in the modern game. Whether it was the rugby between Ireland and New Zealand or Gaelic football, all teams are bringing that massive work rate to it. “To survive you’ve got to be able to compete at that level. The day for fancy little hurlers I think is well gone. Everyone has to be able to hook, block, tackle, to try to win their own ball. That’s the way the modern game has gone. It’s more a of warrior sport than it has been in the past.”
Our U-14 boys and men’s adult football teams are looking for extra players for next season.
at 10am and remember we have moved
U-14 players, contact Gabriel on 085
for indoor winter training to the bril-
7254897 and adults contact Kevin on 086
liant gym in St Laurence’s College.
8449902.
The academy caters for children
For more information on the club,
from four to eight years of age at only
contact secretary.shankill.dublingaa.
€2 per week; there is no annual sub-
ie or call 086 4010438.
scription.
Cuala cruise to final date with O’Loughlin’s
Watch out for details in December for
Remember, the volunteer apprecia-
where tickets are also available.
Cuala proved too strong for Carlow champions St Mullin’s
The ladies football AGM is on Tuesday, November 29.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Club gear for kids and adults which
Join Shankill GAA Club, your community,
includes hoodies, fleece tops, rain
your GAA club where everybody knows
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FOXROCK CABINTEELY CONGRATULATIONS to our senior team
The All-Ireland final will be played on
who turned in an outstanding perfor-
Sunday, December 4 in Parnell Park at
mance on Sunday to beat hot-favour-
2.45pm against current champions,
ites, and five-time All-Ireland winners,
Donaghmoyne, from Monaghan. Don-
Carnacon of Mayo, in the All-Ireland
aghmoyne made their first appear-
semi-final and secure a first ever
ance in an All-Ireland ladies senior
appearance for the club in an All-Ire-
football back in 2005 – the year that
land ladies senior football final.
our club was founded.
Each player gave her all on Sunday
They lost on that occasion but, since
and the 4-9 to 2-11 victory was a just
then, have won four titles (2006, 2009,
reward for the effort. Team captain,
2012 and 2015) and lost another in 2013.
Sarah Brophy, has asked me to thank
Congratulations to Lisa Davies who
the large number of supporters who
was named as the Dublin U-16 player
were at the game and who made them-
of the year at the Dublin U-14 and U-16
selves heard during the game. This
medal presentation ceremony on Fri-
level of support no-doubt helped the
day night.
team.
The winner of this award is selected
The club would like to thank Denise
by the Dublin U-16 management team.
Connor, Bernie Hedderman, Linda Car-
Congrats also to Jodi Egan, Sarah
roll, Lucilita Bell and all from the Gaelic
O’Leary and Aisling O’Kelly who col-
4 Mothers team who looked after the
lected their medals on Friday night.
catering on Sunday. Thanks also to
The club has been informed by Dun
Ciara Fallon and Aoife Bell for all their
Laoghaire Rathdown County Council
hard work and help with the catering.
that the weekend of December 3 and 4
The club would like to sincerely
will be the final weekend this year for
thank Bray Emmett’s for making their
matches to be played on Kilbogget. Kil-
incredible facilities available to us on
bogget will re-open again on the week-
Sunday.
end of January 14 and 15.
GAZETTESPORT
ALL OF YOUR DUN LAOGHAIRE SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31
THAI WARRIOR: Cian Cowley going strong following MMA switch while still coaching local club’s youth P30
NOVEMBER 24-30, 2016
FOXROCK’S FINAL FANTASY: Brophy hails southside club’s run to All-Ireland decider P29
Cuala’s senior hurlers before their Leinster senior club hurling championship semi-final date with St Mullin’s
Cuala’s higher learning Mark Schutte says Dalkey club in better position to challenge in Leinster senior final against O’Loughlin Gaels thanks to their 2015 experiences
sport@dublingazette.com
MARK Schutte says the lessons learned from Cuala’s run to the Leinster final a year ago will serve them well as the Dalkey club bid to finally end the wait for a Dublin winner in the Leinster club senior hurling championship. Cuala proved too strong for Carlow’s St Mullin’s at Netwatch Dr Cullen Park last weekend as they ran out 1-19 to 1-7 winners to earn their place in the provincial final. After the concession of an early goal, Cuala went into a 0-9 to 1-3 advantage at half-time and Con O’Callaghan’s goal eight minutes into the second half saw them home and hosed.
In 2015, Schutte’s team fell 2-13 to 0-13 to Wexford’s Oulart-the-Ballagh in what was a Dublin club’s first appearance in the Leinster decider since Ballyboden St Enda’s contentious 2007 defeat to Birr. But Schutte said that his side now have increased know-how for the big stage that they can bring into this final. “We were probably a bit more experienced this year coming into it, we prepared better this year than we did last year,” he said this week. “We know experience is invaluable at this time of year. “The squad is a lot stronger, we have coped with injuries – Nicky Kenny was one of our
best players in the Dublin championship and lads like Con [O’Callaghan] have come in. The squad probably has strengthened in the last 12 months. “Last year we got caught with the conditions but we probably handled it (there), it was freezing. Stuff like that we have learned.” Their Kilkenny opponents, though, have plenty of experience of this kind of stage, too, winning a Leinster crown in 2010. Indeed, their club championship is usually regarded as one of the standard-bearers across the sport. “Kilkenny hurling is going to be the standard bearer in Leinster championships but we are not going to pay too much attention to
who is favourites,” said Schutte. “We’ll just focus on ourselves, review this game and then over the next few weeks prepare for O’Loughlin Gaels. “O’Loughlin Gaels are a quality team; it’s a Leinster final so you are not going to play an easy team there. We have looked at ourselves more than anyone else to this point and it was the same in the [Dublin] championship final. “People were saying it was a big local rivalry against Kilmacud but we just focused on ourselves and getting the best from ourselves. “O’Loughlin Gaels are a huge challenge and we’ll have to prepare adequately for that.”