Gazette DUN LAOGHAIRE
vox pops: Members of the public go to town when
expressing their anger over the Luas strikes Page 24
Motoring: Impressed by the Opel Performance Centre’s remodelled style and raw power Page 23
Don’t forget! Sunday, April 24 is Census day; so fill out the form you recently received
sport Soccer:
Cabinteely push for top in U-14 Majors Page 30
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April 21-27, 2016
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Councillor enjoys going back to his roots Dun Laoghaire Cathaoirleach Councillor Barry Saul (FG) (Class of 1995) visited Blackrock College to plant a tree in the college grounds as part of National Tree Week. In his address, he spoke fondly of his time at Blackrock and in particular recalled the early years of Mr Campbell’s Greenwatch magazine which encouraged an interest in, and concern for, the well being of the planet. Tree Week, organised by the Tree Council of Ireland since 1985, is a week-long programme of events to celebrate trees.
Call for tenancy action team to be established
Emergency motion passed by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council
Emma Nolan
AN EMERGENCY motion has been passed by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council calling on the management of the council to establish a dedicated Housing Assistance Pay-
ments (HAP) tenancy action team. There are almost 6,000 separate housing applications with the council. Speaking on the motion, People Before Profit Cllr Hugh Lewis told The Gazette that he is contacted every day by people at risk
of homelessness “for no other reason than the scale of rent allowance limits and the complete lack of housing and a solution from government”. A council spokesperson said that under this scheme the onus is on the tenant
to source their own private rented accommodation. “This service includes a placefinders service which helps to support households who are homeless to find a tenancy using the dedicated HAP.” Full Story on Page 2
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Cllr Boyhan outlines his election promises for Agricultural Panel Independent Councillor Victor Boyhan has announced that he plans to run for the Seanad on the Agricultural Panel. Cllr Boyhan outlined his election promises in which he says he will advocate for “a fairer deal for councillors in terms of pay, PRSI and pension”. His manifesto also outlines that he will campaign for government funding for the provision of social and affordable housing. New infrastructure and village, town and city rejuvenation plans are also on his agenda as well as keeping local garda stations, post offices and credit
unions open. Speaking to The Gazette on his campaign and support of forestry company Coillte, Cllr Boyhan said: “The state forestry company owns over 445,000 hectares of land, of which 390,000 hectares is under forest including 90,000 hectares dedicated to biodiversity. “If elected to the Seanad, I will oppose any attempt by government to privatise or sell off any of this national asset, and natural resource, actively pursue the vision of Coillte to promote walking trails, forest parks and tourism opportunities in partnership with local communities.”
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council are calling on the management of the council to establish a dedicated Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) tenancy action team
housing crisis | new resources needed
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Emergency motion passed by DLRCC emma nolan
news@gazettegroup.com
An emergency motion has been passed by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council calling on the management of the council to establish a dedicated Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) tenancy action team. The proposed new section would specifically contact landlords with the aim of securing HAP contracts. The motion was passed following the increasing difficulty for lower income and homeless families to secure housing tenancies with landlords in the Dun Laoghaire area, which is resulting in the increasing number of people being made homeless. There are almost 6,000 separate housing applications with the council. This news comes following the unanimous
motion passed by the council in January calling on central government to declare a housing emergency. Speaking on the motion, People Before Profit Councillor Hugh Lewis told The Gazette that he is contacted every day by people at risk of homelessness “for no other reason than the scale of rent allowance limits and the complete lack of housing and a solution from government”. He said: “We need new resources for housing in the council to actively prevent homelessness or the situation will continue to deteriorate even further. “We need to establish a real solution that gets people into tenancies now and in the long term construct direct build Council houses, if these things happen the situation for
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
people can improve fast.” Cllr Melisa Halpin (PBP), who is a member of the Social Housing Strategic Policy Committee said that the HAP scheme is “part of the government’s agenda to privatise council housing”. “Considering there are 5,724 families and individuals on the housing list and there will only be 54 houses built in the County this year, it is clear that we need to use this scheme as an alternative to emergency accommodation,” Cllr Halpin said. Cllr Deirdre Kingston (Lab) said she has “reservations about the real impact of this motion” but said that she “supported the motion as I think we need to try and do everything we possibly can to secure housing for people on the housing list”. Another member of the SPC, Cllr Michael Merrigan (Ind) said that it’s “unclear as to whether the Chief Executive will abide by this Motion”. Speaking to The Gazette, he explained that while there are just under 6,000 applicants on the housing waiting
list, this figure represents families and the actual number may be closer to 12,000 men, women and children in the context of the “spiralling” housing crisis in the county. A spokesperson from Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council said that under this scheme the onus is on the tenant to source their own private rented accommodation. “The Homeless HAP pilot is targeted specifically at homeless households who are registered with any one of the four Dublin local authorities. “However the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive operates a shared service on behalf of the four Dublin Local Authorities. This service includes a Placefinders Service which helps to support households who are homeless to find a tenancy using the dedicated Housing Assistance Payment (HAP). “Since March 2015, 208 families have availed of the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) pilot and have been assisted through the Dublin Place Finders Service.”
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dun laoghaire
rescue | Bin man suffered cardiac arrest outside Victoria’s home
Drama, poetry and song
Heroic schoolgirl saves a life with CPR
emma nolan
A local schoolgirl has been hailed a hero since saving the life of a bin man by administering lifesaving CPR as he suffered a heart attack. Victoria Williams Gaines, aged 16, who a t t e n d s S t J o s e p h ’s of Cluny Secondar y School in Killiney came to Romanian national, Florin Popa’s rescue when he collapsed outside her home in Shankill while he was on duty on March 23. Having just learned how to do CPR in her school weeks before the incident, Victoria sprung to action when the Panda Waste worker, aged 39 collapsed.
Speaking to the media, Victoria said: “ My m u m a c t u a l l y called me out of bed to say that a bin man had collapsed outside and I just ran out. “Nobody really understood what was going on. My mum rang the ambulance and they said he was in cardiac arrest and to start CPR. “I didn’t really think about it at the time, I just wanted to help him so I started compressions and within about two or three minutes the ambulance got there.” She said Popa was “in a bad way” and gasping every 30 seconds or so. She continued doing compressions, pushing down on his chest, until
the ambulance arrived with a defibrillator. Her technique was so effective however that the paramedics told her to continue when they arrived, allowing them to set up their equipment. “The ambulance men realised that she knew what she was doing and it allowed them to set up,” Victoria’s mum Viv Gaine said. The teenager has since been hailed a “superstar” by Popa who presented Victoria with a bouquet and thanked her for saving his life at her school last week. Popa has spent some time in hospital and has not yet returned to work.
spring clean at nature reserve is for the birds As part of An Taisce Spring Clean initiative, twenty volunteers (plus two children) took part in the clean-up of Booterstown Nature Reserve and Beach on Sunday 17th April. With the aid of pickers and gloves, the volunteers removed thirty bags of rubbish from the reserve, the beach and environs. The event is part of International OCEAN 2016 to raise awareness of the problems of waterway and marine litter. The volunteers tucked into tea and scones after their Trojan efforts. The Reserve attracts many visitors each year to view thediverse bird life.
A night of drama poetr y and song is being organised by the DLR 1916 Committee and the Dun Laoghaire Club to mark the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Rising. The event is taking place on Saturday April 23 from 8.00pm in the Dun Laoghaire Club at Eblana Ave with performances from T he Raging Hormones, Evelyn Campbell, the Dun Laoghaire Ukelers, Dave Lordon and Andrew Basqule The DLR 1916 Committee organised a series of lectures on 1916 and published a book on Dun Laoghaire and the 1916 Rising. This is their last event of the year. Admission is free but places are limited.
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courts | the accused also has a history of repeatedly breaching bail
Man faces charges of violence and threats Isabel Hayes
A Dublin man with a “history of very serious violence” who stamped on a man and threatened to kill a garda will be sentenced next week. Leroy Dumbrell, also known as Leroy Roche, (29) of Carriglea Gardens, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, pleaded guilty to one count of violent disorder
on November 27, 2013. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard this week that Dumbrell was one of a group of men who took part in the assault of another man on a street in Ballymun, Dublin in the middle of the afternoon. A number of children witnessed the assault, during which Dumbrell stamped on the victim’s leg as he lay prone
on the ground, the court heard. The assault was captured on CCTV footage and the men were identified by gardaí. Dumbrell’s co-accused received sentences of threeand-a-half years and two-anda-half years respectively. The court heard Dumbrell was repeatedly jailed for breaching his bail conditions, which included a curfew of
between 7pm and 7am. On the night of May 5, 2015, gardaí called to Dumbrell’s home and found he was not there, in breach of his bail conditions. Detective Garda Ronan McMorrow then telephoned Dumbrell to inform him he was in danger of having his bail revoked. Gerardine Small BL prose-
cuting said that Dumbrell told Det Gda McMorrow: “You bring me back to court and you’ll regret it. Mark my words you c***” and “I’ll come after you one way or another”. Dumbrell went on to identify the colour and model of Det Gda McMorrow’s personal car and said, “I’ll f***ing find out about you”. “Bring plenty of men and fire
power if you’re coming for me, as you’ll need it,” Dumbrell told the officer, the court heard. When two other gardaí later called at Dumbrell’s door, he told them Det Gda McMorrow would “need a body bag”. “There’s a history of very serious violence,” Judge Karen O’Connor noted before she adjourned the case until April 28, next.
success | recognition for Fionn
Student makes the finals in ‘A Poem for Ireland’ emma nolan news@gazettegroup.com
A fifth year student from Newpark Comp r e h e n s i ve S c h o o l , Blackrock has been recognised for his entry in the A Poem for Ireland Poetry Competition for post-primary schools. The Department of Education and Skills, the public library service and Libraries Development, Local Government Management Agency are holding the competition as part of the commemoration events for Ireland 2016. Pictured is the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County prizewinner, Fionn O’Sullivan, being presented with his prize by An Cathaoirleach Councillor Barry Saul (FG) and DLR Writer in Residence, Selina Guinness. Round one involved a school’s competition and round two involved a county competition. The DLR County Library service received over 30 entries before choosing Fionn for his poem ‘Pride in Brod - A poem for Ireland’.
Councillor Barry Saul, Fionn O’Sullivan, Selina Guinness. Picture: Peter Cavanagh
The young poet was presented with his prizes in DLR LexIcon last week and the poem has been selected along with seven other county winners from across Ireland. The national panel of judges for the competition includes Brendan Martin, County Librarian for Wicklow County Council Panel, Gabriel Rosenstock, Poet and Member of Aosdana and Tom French, Poet and Local Studies Librarian on Meath County Council. The national final for this competition will take place on Friday
May 6 in Dublin Castle with president, Michael D. Higgins invited to present the winning prizes. Speaking on the announcement a spokesperson from DLR Libraries said: “We are delighted to add that Fionn’s poem has been selected to go forward to the next and final round of this national competition. “We wish him every success at the final round and also with his promising career as a writer, we look forward to having his future publications on the shelves of DLR Libraries.”
21 April 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 5
sandyford | different views expressed on landmark sentinel project
Council, SF at odds over unfinished site emma nolan
CONFLICTING opinions surrounding an unfinished building development in the Sandyford Business District have arisen between local councillors and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. The 13-story unfinished Sentinel building overlooks Sandyford, Stillorgan and Dundrum. Sinn Fein councillor for Glencullen/Sandyford Chris Curran has called for immediate action to revitalise the
skeleton development which, he says, “gives the impression that the area is run-down, when quite the opposite is true”. He said that the building is a “symbolic headstone for the Celtic Tiger”. “The building is no longer in the ownership of NAMA, and has planning permission for owndoor office units. However, that planning permission is due to expire in July, and it’s time to act. “In my opinion, under the Derelict Sites Acts, the Sentinel building
meets the requirements to be declared a derelict site. It looks unsightly, it looks neglected, and it’s most definitely objectionable to those living in its shadow,” he said. The site was left unfinished when Cork developer John Fleming declared bankruptcy in England due to debts of more than €1 billion in 2010. The site remained idle and was first declared derelict in late 2013, when the empty building was bought for less than €1 million by Galway developers, the Comer Brothers.
File photo of the unfinished Sentinel site, and the distinctive ‘tower’, which Cllr Chris Curran (SF) has called for the council to act over
The Gazette contacted the Comer Brothers for a comment on their future plans for the building, but a spokesperson said they were unable to comment by the time of going to print. Cllr Curran said that the council needs to take a “firmer approach” towards this development and that “it should
be declared a derelict site, if even to act as a catalyst to its completion”. However, a spokesperson for Dun LaoghaireRathdow n County Council spoke to The Gazette about the Sentinel building, and said that the council deems it to be “non-derelict”. The spokesperson said: “The Sentinel develop-
ment was inspected on February 5 this year and deemed non-derelict, and while it remains an incomplete development/structure, it does not constitute a derelict site in accordance with the Derelict Sites Act 1990.” Cllr Curran thinks it is “absurd, given the current housing situation, that
a building of this stature is lying idle in the heart of such a residential and commercially-cherished district”. He added: “Sinn Fein is urging the council to take action that could see the imposition of a fine, have it demolished, or be taken over by the council. “Enough is enough with this building.”
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Showtime for students at Enterprise Awards Enterprising young teenagers from Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown are getting ready to showcase their inventions and real-life businesses at the Student Enterprise Awards National Finals 2016. From the 22,000 secondary school students from 620 schools that took part this year, teens from 76 student enterprises have won a place at this year’s National Final in Croke Park on Wednesday April 20 and students from every county across Ireland will be demonstrating their businesses and inventions
for the judging panels on the day. There are three student enterprises representing all schools in the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown region. Firstly the Junior Category finalists include; Therese Reilly, Cliona Moore and Sophie Anderson of ‘Plug IT!’ who are students in St. Raphaela’s Secondary School. Secondly the Intermediate Category finalists include; Abdullah Ahmed of ‘Joker Clothing’ who is a student in Ballinteer Community School and lastly the Senior Cat-
egory finalists include; Jack Manning, Johnnie Bell and Eamonn Flannery of ‘JC Learn’ who are students in Clonkeen College. The Student Enterprise Awards Programme is in its 14th year and brings the world of business into the classroom, helping students develop enterprise and management skills. With the support of their schools and the Local Enterprise Offices in the Local Authorities Network, students research, set-up and run their own real-life businesses.
Mo Hudson as Bertha the mad wife and Maria Bruce as Jane Eyre. Picture: Liam Maslin
theatre | Jane eyre on speed
Dalkey Players make All Ireland Drama Festival
emma nolan news@gazettegroup.com
The Dalkey Players are the only Dublin acting group to have made it through to the All Ireland Drama Festival for their production of Jane Eyre. This year’s festival will take place in the Dean Crowe Theatre in Athlone from April 28 to May 6, with the Gala Awards Night on May 7. Dalkey Players chairperson Lua McIlraith spoke to The Gazette about the production. “We’re absolutely thrilled to bits to get to Athlone,” she says. As this is Dalkey Players 40th anniversary, Lua tells The Gazette that they decided to celebrate their 40th year by going back to the full length circuit. In order to qualify for the All Ireland Drama Festival, each compet-
ing drama group must perform at eight venues around the country and out of those eight, they have to win three in order to get through to the finals. The group chose to put on a production of Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre (courtesy of Nick Hearne Books) in honour of the 200th anniversary of the author’s birth this year. The stage adaptation is by English actress Polly Teale and directed by Emma Jane Nulty. “Because it’s quite a thick book, this is a very clever adaptation. It comprises of about 38 scenes and we have eight actors who play all the roles. “We multi role within the play so it’s quite demanding for the actors. It’s like Jane Eyre on speed,” she jokes. The last time the Dalkey Players got to the All Ire-
land Drama Festival was in 1999. “Amateur drama is Ireland is second only to the GAA in terms of the number of people involved,” Lua said. They currently have 35 members at Dalkey Players and new members are welcome and can join through the website dalkeyplayers.ie. The group who are based at the Harold School in Dalkey, consists of members of all ages and all roles from actors, directors, writers, front of house, backstage crew and they regularly perform at the Dalkey Town Hall. Prior to going to Athlone for the festival, the players are putting on two shows in Dalkey on May 2 and 3 in the town hall. Visit the group’s Facebook page for ticket information.
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| students strut their stuff on the catwalk
Laura Lynch, head of youth business Bank of Ireland with Eleanor Dwyer
Celebrations as Eleanor Dwyer, wearing a dress entitled Jewel of Nylon designed by fellow students Jennifer
Stars step out for ‘Junk’ fashion show Siak and Emma Clarke, was named the overall winner. Picture: Brian McEvoy
Emma McCarron and Maureen Lucia McCawley and Maureen O’Donnell
Vogue Williams and Louis Walsh
O’Donnell
L
ouis Walsh, Glenda Gilson and Vogue Williams were on hand to dish out the awards at the grand final of the Bank of Ireland Junk Koture at Dublin’s 3Arena recently. 80 students strutted their stuff down the catwalk in their creations fashioned by renewable materials. Louis and Vogue joined stylist Rob Condon, Lorna McGee and LSAD lecturer Tracy Fahey on the judging panel for the show. Over 1,100 designs were entered from all over Ireland, with Eleanor Dwyer, from Our Lady’s Bower emerging as the overall winner. Entertainment was from Louis’ pop band Hometown and Irish language group Seo Linn.
Christine Hamill, Gabriel Bannigan and Claire Tenwick
Ciara Doyle and Maeve Murray
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| the inaugural UCD Festival launch event
Nicole Parks and Nicola Bailey Some of UCD’S most well-known and well-respected alumni Miriam O Callaghan, Fr Peter McVerry, Gordon Snell and Aoibheann Ni Shuilleabhain at the launch of the first ever UCD Festival. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
Plenty to see and do on Campus Laura Shorten and Ashling O’Brien
T
HE first ever UCD Festival will take place across the Belfield Campus on June 18 and visitors will experience an enormous variety of talks and exhibitions, theatrical performances, live music, interactive workshops and family entertainment. The showcase event that will be an excellent opportunity for one and all to discover the state of the art facilities on campus, explore the new buildings and the wonderful parkland.
Clodagh Lannon and Aishling O’Connor
Gordon Snell and Prof Margaret Kelleher
Naomi Cassidy and Ciara Horgan
Toluse Akinladl, Molly Dillon Leetch and Brenda Mangwandi
Roisin Monks and Cillian Totterdell
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dublinlife
diary
Coming together to help break the cycle of suicide Dublin cyclists are invited to take part in the fourth annual Cycle Against Suicide event taking place over two weeks in April and May. This year’s Cycle will travel over 1,100 kilometres around the island
of Ireland over 14 days, beginning in the Phoenix Park on Sunday, April 24 and concluding back in the capital on Saturday, May 7. Jim Breen, founder of Cycle Against Suicide, said: “At Cycle Against
Suicide, we believe in solidarity; we believe that together, shoulder to shoulder, we can empower one another to create an island of Ireland where ‘It’s OK not to feel OK, and it’s absolutely OK to ask for help’.”
Colm Hayes, Cycle Against Suicide Ambassador and RTE 2FM DJ said: “Cycle Against Suicide acknowledges life’s difficulties, offers reassurance and hope, and meaningfully empowers individuals across the island of Ireland to seek help when necessary.” Approximately 7,000 cyclists are expected to participate. Register now at cycleagainstsuicide. com.
“big-hearted” volunteers being sought The Irish Heart Foundation is seeking “bighearted” volunteers in Dublin to give a few hours of their time, to sell Happy Heart pins on-street and raise much-needed funds for their Happy Hearts Appeal this May. Every day in Ireland 27 people are losing their lives to heart disease and stroke and some 300 new cases are diagnosed daily - yet 80% of these deaths are completely preventable. Irish Heart Foundation medical director and cardiologist Dr Angie Brown said: “It is well known by medical professionals that heart disease and stroke remains the number one killer in Ireland. “The good news is that 80% of this disease is preventable – and the Irish Heart Foundation is here to help.” To register your interest as a volunteer for the Happy Heart Appeal on May 5 and 6, call Anne Harrington at the Irish Heart Foundation on 01-6685001 or email happyheart@irishheart.ie.
Pictured at the launch of 2016 Cycle Against Suicide was Cycle Against Suicide founder Jim Breen with Cycle Against Suicide ambassadors rugby pundit Brent Pope, Irish actress Charlene McKenna, RTE 2FM presenter Colm Hayes and former Armagh Gaelic footballer Oisin McConville. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography
recreating a 21-year-old project The Ark (the cultural centre for children in Temple Bar) recently put a call out for children to have their portrait photograph taken. These images of the nation’s children in 2016 have been placed in the windows of the building on Eustace street. The team at The Ark were setting out to recreate one of the first ever projects that took place 21 years ago when The Ark first opened. Back in 1995 for Faces in The Window, photographs of children were displayed in the windows of the building to show the world who The Ark had been created for. Now in 2016 as part of the recent Easter programme, 264 children
had their photographic portrait taken to become part of The Ark’s Faces in the Window 2016 project which features the faces of children in Ireland today. These children were selected from applications from all over Ireland. The photos are now in the windows - have a look as you pass by on Eustace Street.
Irish Cancer Society seeks team members The Irish Cancer Society is calling on women of all ages in Dublin to sign up to join their team ahead of this year’s VHI Women’s Mini Marathon. Those joining Team Irish Cancer Society for the event will be supporting the society’s free nationwide services for cancer patients and their families.
The Mini Marathon, which takes place on Monday, June 6, will see over 40,000 women walk, jog and run the 10 kilometre route across Dublin City. Mark Mellett, head of Fundraising at the Irish Cancer Society said: “Over 40,000 women will take part in the Mini Marathon in June and over 40,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer in Ireland this year, a poignant reminder visually on the day of the vast numbers of people affected by cancer in this country. “The Mini Marathon offers a great goal for those looking to get fit ahead of the summer while also truly making a difference to those affected by cancer.” To join team Irish Cancer Society, visit cancer.ie/ getactive
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dublinlife Bealtaine 2016: hundreds of initiatives in festival
Help celebrate older creativity Ian Begley
Bealtaine 2016 is almost upon us, which will once again provide the opportunity to celebrate older members of the community, and their living legacy
Age & Opportunity has announced Iconic Citizens as the theme for Bealtaine 2016, Ireland’s annual festival of creativity as we age which is celebrated during the month of May.
Bealtaine is an Age & Opportunity initiative funded by the Arts Council and delivered by hundreds of organisations around the country. Last year, more than 125,000 people participated in Bealtaine, making it one of the most
important cultural events in the national arts calendar. This high level of engagement, married with the creativity and enthusiasm of all involved, makes Bealtaine the vibrant and energetic celebration of creativity that it is today. This year, Bealtaine will celebrate its 21st birthday with over 600 events in libraries, arts centres, care settings, galleries, local halls and community centres throughout the country. With a wide range of activities including poetry, writing workshops, traditional music events, art exhibitions and an important seminar about the use of creativity in planning our communities and care settings, there will definitely be something for everyone during Bealtaine 2016. Festival highlights include a visit from visual artist Deirdre O’Mahony who will present First Citizens Speak, a film that explores the lives of a community of older people in north Clare. T he Ark Cultural Centre for Children will host a reading event for grandparents and their grandchildren which will be led by Marita Conlon McKenna and her daughter Amanda Hearty. The seminar, This Is Not My Beautiful House, will examine how creativity, creatively charged communities and the arts contribute to better ways of living as we age. In particular, the seminar will seek to address how creativity should shape residential and community design in a
way that enhances human dignity and growth. Finally, Bealtaine, in partnership with glor Arts Centre, Ennis, and Clare County of Culture, announced VoltAge, a festival-within-a-festival. VoltAge will feature three days of exhibitions, discussions and events from Thursday, May 5 to Saturday, May 7. Alongside these programmes there will be a huge range of 600 local initiatives hosted by local authorities, arts centres, libraries, active retirement groups, care settings, community groups and clubs from every part of the country.
Commemorate Speaking about the festival, Karen Smyth, CEO of Age & Opportunity said: “We are delighted to unveil a very special programme for Bealtaine 2016 as we commemorate 100 years since the birth of modern Ireland with a celebration of Ireland’s iconic first citizens. “The festival combines the creative mediums of visual art, music, theatre and literature to explore the impact that Ireland’s first generation continues to have on our culture and identity today. “As Bealtaine enters its 21st year, we are thrilled that the festival continues to grow and with over 600 different arts events taking place nationwide, audiences of all ages and across Ireland will have plenty to choose from during the month of May.” For more information and for the full line up, see www.bealtaine.com.
21 April 2016 Gazette 15
campaign: call for more support for sufferers
Summer adventure
Lifting the lid on Parkinson’s disease Ian Begley To mark Parkinson’s Awareness Week recently, a national awareness campaign was organised by the Parkinson’s Association of Ireland (PAI) to lift the lid on Parkinson’s and highlight the difficulties experienced by the 12,000 people in Ireland living with the disease, and to call for more support for them and their families. The week kicked off with a Unity Walk in Dublin’s Merrion Square,
attended by almost 1,000 people from all over Ireland - including the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Criona Ni Dhalaigh. Richie Kavanagh, who has lived with Parkinson’s disease since 2008, performed his recently re-launched hit song Aon Focal Eile. He is encouraging all his supporters and those affected by Parkinson’s disease to show their support for the Parkinson’s Association of Ireland to raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease, which affects over 12,000
people in Ireland. An art auction took place on April 13 with pieces of art being provided by Harold Huberman, a former fashion designer and artist, who also lives with Parkinson’s disease. Creating awareness of the serious impact of Parkinson’s disease and the effect it has on so many people’s lives is vital, says Paula Gilmore, chief executive of the PAI. She said: “The high level of engagement with our members and their families around issues
relating to Parkinsons shows us not just the seriousness of the disease but also the importance to those who live with it of the need for proper access to services and treatments. “The PAI receives no government funding and depends on donations to provide services through our 16 branches and national office in Dublin. “We are seeing a significant increase in demand for our services, with increased calls for
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FEATURES
People from all over Ireland turned out in force to support the Parkinson’s Unity Walk 2016. Picture: Marc O’Sullivan
our nurse call-back and support line services. We are also receiving more requests for information, publications and access to education, but there are simply not enough resources to deal with the 12,000 people in Ireland who have to live with Parkinsons every day.”
The Parkinson’s Unity Walk, as part of the Parkinson’s Awareness Week took place on April 10. Over the years, the walk has gained momentum with more than 1,000 people at this year’s event including Dublin’s Lord Mayor, Criona Ni Dhalaigh.
Get your kids out of Dublin this summer and send them to the renowned Delphi Resort in Connemara – Ireland’s leading resort for adventure. Running from July 3 to August 14, Delphi Resort’s S u m m e r A d ve n t u r e Camps are all-inclusive, so your kids will be fed and watered three times a day and given all the safety equipment they need. Three, five and seven night camp options are available plus they are running an early bird offer. Call or email to book before May 27 and receive 10% off when you quote “Dublin Gazette”. For information or to make an enquiry or booking, call Delphi Resort on +353 (0) 9542208 or visit www.delphiresort.com.
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dublinlife
business
Only half have a pension plan ONLY half of Irish people are in a pension plan, according to recent research conducted by Irish Life. Irish Life held a major pensions conference attended by almost 200 delegates in Dublin last week. On the theme, Empowering Retirement, speakers discussed new initiatives to engage members of defined contribution pension schemes. Presenting an analysis of the current pension landscape, Damian Fadden, Irish Life Corporate Business, discussed whether defined contribution schemes are ready to step up to ensure Irish workers are well-prepared for retirement.
“We know from our research that only half of people working in the private sector are in a pension plan, that the average contribution rate in defined contribution schemes is just 10%, and the average starting age in a workplace pension is in the mid-30s – so there is a mountain to climb. “However, these challenges can be resolved with the help of the behavioural insights we have built into our new Empower pension package. These are not just ideas – we have already successfully transformed pension scheme membership and savings levels for a number of our corporate clients,” he said.
Did you hear about the ninth Hearing Awareness Week? THE ninth annual Hearing Awareness Week recently saw five nationwide free health screening events take place during that time in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Waterford and Athlone. The campaign highlighted the issue of
hearing loss and how it’s a key part of overall health and wellness. Pictured at the city centre launch of Hearing Awareness Week 2016, in association with Active Retirement Ireland, were Dolores Madden, marketing
director, Hidden Hearing; Stephen Leddy, managing director, Hidden Hearing; Mai Quaid, president, Active Retirement Ireland and Dr Nina Byrnes, medical advisor to Hidden Hearing.
Picture: Conor McCabe Photography
resource: initiative to support communities
KBC Bank Ireland seeks groups to share €100k
Ian Begley
KBC Bank Ireland is calling on community groups across Dublin to apply for financial support for their dream projects from its €100,000 funding initiative, Bright Ideas. KBC’s Bright Ideas community support initiative returns for a third year to support individuals and organisations which are transforming and improving the lives of others in their locality. This year’s initiative will be promoted across seven different geographic regions, including Dublin, reflecting KBC’s expanding network of retail banking hubs in Ireland. A new Green category has also been created, to recognise the importance of environmentallyfriendly projects in com-
munities nationwide. A dedicated prize of €2,500 will be given to the overall winner of this category. Over the past two years, 70 creative and innovative local community projects have received funding through Bright Ideas, breathing new life into a diverse range of schemes. These have included creating communitybased amenities for the elderly and people with special needs, sporting and educational activities for young people, community wellbeing resources, arts and culture initiatives, as well as urban renewal projects. Among last year’s winning projects in Dublin was Steps Together, a pilot programme to provide people with disabilities with greater opportunities to participate in physical activity, health awareness
Eoghan and Ferdiad O’Reilly at the Grow Dome in Rialto, Dublin 8 - one of last year’s winning projects in KBC’s Bright Ideas community fund
and sport in their local community, helping them to build meaningful, interdependent relationships with others as a result. Sarah Hewitt, of St Michael’s House in Clontarf, which developed the programme and received €2,910 in funding, said: “The pilot programme went really well. It made a huge impact on the individuals involved and as a result we are now running the programme again
with another group. “Having access to funding through Bright Ideas was really worthwhile; it really made a difference to the people who participated and made a significant contribution to developing a sense of community.” Applications for Bright Ideas funding can be submitted at www.kbcbrightideas.com. The closing date for applications is May 31.
21 April 2016 Gazette 17
travel P20
asdfsdaf cinema P27 P21
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
Gazette
style P18
Pets cosmo will be a perfect pal
Betroffenheit touches on universal themes of loss, addiction and recovery
Festival: bringing unique and eye-opening experiences of dance
World-class entertainment
Ian Begley
Extraordinary artists will present world-class dance as Dublin Dance Festival (DDF) comes to town from May 17 to 28. This is the first festival programme by new DDF director Benjamin Perchet, who promises 2016 audiences “an inspiring journey of aesthetic pleasure and intellectual stimulus”, exploring themes of migration, mobility and transformation. The programme will present work by artists who blur the lines between art forms and will offer unique and eyeopening experiences of dance, via world premieres, film screenings, exhibitions, discussions, master classes and more. DDF is the leading dance event on the Irish arts calendar, bringing together dance artists and choreographers from around the globe each May to
share vibrant, contemporary dance with audiences in Ireland. The 2016 edition will feature work from the US, Canada, Greece, the Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland, France and the UK, as well as showcasing and celebrating contemporary dance from Irish artists. One of the true ballet masters of our times, Alonzo King brings his celebrated contemporary ballet company on a first visit to Ireland. The twelve extraordinary dancers will be presenting two technically brilliant and sublimely beautiful works at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre on Sunday, May 22. Dublin Dance Festival are also thrilled to present the European premiere of Betroffenheit, an acclaimed new dance-theatre work by Olivier award-winning Canadian choreographer Crystal Pite and pioneering playwright/performer Jonathon Young.
The 2016 festival will open with the Irish premiere of Planites from Greek choreographer Patricia Apergi. This intensely physical, urban fusion piece for five dancers focuses on the foreigner, the immigrant - the person who travels, whether by choice or by force. Co-commissioned by Dublin Dance Festival and Siamsa Tire, The National Folk Theatre of Ireland, Anam, (meaning soul) will bring together the skills of world-class step dancers from the US, Canada and Ireland in an exhilarating fusion of styles. Authentic and raw, the world premiere of this percussive dance piece will be performed with live music and song by acclaimed musician Fergal O’Murchu. At the O’Reilly Theatre, The Akram Khan Company will present the heart-
warming Chotto Desh, a captivating experience for all the family from this multi-award-winning choreographer. Chotto Desh is thrilling and poignant tale of a young man’s dreams and memories from Britain to Bangladesh, told using a magical mix of dance, text, visuals and sound. Dublin Dance Festival box office at Festival House will be home to DRAFF: another exhibition, investigating the process of making dance work with a series of behind-the-scenes fragments from some of the shows in the 2016 programme. The festival will also offer an extensive schedule of seven master classes and workshops by festival artists for professional dancers, dance and performance students and children. For a full line-up of events taking place, visit www.dublindancefestival.ie.
The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week this week is Cosmo. He came to us as a puppy and has been in a home before, but struggled hugely with being left alone and, sadly, his previous family just didn’t have the time to meet his needs. If you live in an adult-only home with someone there the vast majority of the time, then Cosmo could be the perfect companion for you. He will need a little help to learn to settle in to a home again, but when he does, you will see just how loving and wonderful he truly is. If you think you could offer Cosmo a loving 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. Dogs Trust are asking all ladies taking part in the VHi Women’s Mini Marathon 2016 to do so on behalf of #TeamDogsTrust – see www.dogstrust.ie for more information.
Gazette
18 Gazette 21 April 2016
OUT&ABOUT
Asos Public Desire Kat Grey Heeled Sock Boots €49.28
Topshop Hex Sock Fit Aankle Boots €98
Zara €65.95
Shade Adjusting Drops €17.00
A handy way to adjust the colour of your foundation The Body Shop have devised a handy way to adjust the colour of your foundation. The shade adjusting drops come in lightening and darkening shades so that foundation can be adjusted to suit your skin tone perfectly. This product will be particularly handy for those who tan in the summer and need a darker foundation while the tan lasts. They’re also a useful addition to any make-up bag for times when you forget your own foundation and need to borrow a friend’s, or if you just have bad luck selecting the right colour. Often, foundation can have that dreaded orange tinge on paler skin tones, the lightening drops use a con-
centration of white and pink pigments helps to lighten, while neutralising the yellowness of light-to-medium foundation shades. On darker skin tones, foundation can sometimes look too light or ashy. The darkening drops use a concentration of black and red pigments help to darken while keeping the natural depth of dark-to-deep foundation shades. One drop of the product will make a face worth of foundation either half a shade lighter or darker and it’s a great way to make an expensive bottle of foundation go a lot further and not go to waste if it isn’t exactly the right shade. At €17 each, the drops are available at the Body Shop.
Asos Public Desire Alexa Red Patent Sock Boots €46.46
River Island nude patent sock boot €95
There’s a new boot in town emma nolan
River Island brown leopard print velvet heeled ankle boots €60
Since ankle boots rose to prominence a number of years ago, they have stayed as the most worn female boot style. From Chelsea, to cut out, to bucked, chunky, pointed, Western you name it – ankle height is where it’s at and while it’s here to stay, the sock boot is the style that enchanted on the autumn winter runways and is now translating to the high street somewhat. The skintight style were spotted on the Givenchy runway and also featured in recent Dior and Dries Van Norten collections and have been seen on the street style elite since then. Topshop have begun to emulate the look with their sock fit and suede styles and River Island’s offering comes in nude, leopard print and black leather. It’s time to cover up those ankles and embrace the newest It Boot.
21 April 2016 Gazette 19
Gazette
STYLE
River Island Bursary winner William with Roz Purcell modelling his winning outfit
Templeogue’s William Shannon Doyle takes top fashion design bursary emma nolan
Asos Daisy Street Iridescent Sock Ankle Boots €49.28 Topshop Suede Sock Boots €110
River Island Black tie back heeled ankle boots €65 Topshop Magnificent Suede Sock Boots in tan €110
A 22-year-old Dublin fashion designer from Templeogue has the River Island 2016 Fashion design bursary. William Shannon Doyle was chosen to receive a €3,500 bursary and a paid threemonth internship in River Island’s design studio in London. This is the thirteenth year of the River Island Bursary which offers final year fashion design students at the National College of Art and Design the chance to win a paid, threemonth internship at the company’s design studio in London. T his year R iver Island asked the NCAD students to create a capsule collection for River Island Spring Summer 2016. The students then submitted portfolios of designs which were judged by River Island
Design Controller Lucy Moller, who was the 2006 winner of the Bursary. Speaking on the announcement, Lucy said: “The River Island Bursary launched my fashion career 10 years ago. “It is always so exciting to see new and exciting talent emerging. Our industry thrives on fresh ideas and it is so important to inject new energy and life into our design studio and creative teams. “We are delighted to be amongst the first to witness and embrace the emergence of some of Ireland’s brightest new stars in the fashion industry.” William’s winning design consisted of a red skirt with black detailing, black top and bomber jacket with a silk clutch bag that were inspired by 1950’s vintage where “functionality meets luxury”.
Gazette
20 Gazette 21 April 2016
OUT&ABOUT
fast
TRAVEL NEWS
TRAVEL
bargains: balmy breaks to leave you beaming
Yoga practitioners can take to sunnier climes without needing to strain their resources
Yoga getaways won’t stretch your budget ian begley
IF YOU struggle to find tranquillity and peace of mind in Ireland, you will be happy to know that Travel Department are holding a range of yoga retreats in Europe.
Lake Garda Yoga Holiday Recharge in Lake Garda, Italy. Nestled in the tranquillity of Garda Trentino’s olive groves and vineyards, Torbole is the perfect place for a yoga retreat. Your hotel is located in the midst of nature and enjoys the healthy climate of Lake Garda, while being a short stroll from the centre of Torbole and near the beautiful Riva del Garda. Yoga on this holiday will be led by Emma Burke Kennedy, one of Yoga Dublin Studios’ regular Vinyasa Flow yoga teachers. Twice-daily yoga sessions will be held in the mornings and evenings, which will be suited to all levels of yoga practitioners. Afternoons are free to spend at your leisure. Prices star t from € 72 9 p p , i n cl u d i n g return flights from Dublin, transfers, five nights’ B&B accommodation, eight yoga sessions with
an expert instructor, and a half-day Lake Garda boat excursion, with the flight departing on September 14.
The Algarve Yoga Holiday Soak up the Portuguese sun and indulge in a relaxing yoga retreat in the fabulous surroundings of the Algarve. Your base for five nights will be the Memmo Baleeira – set inside a nature park and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this contemporary hotel is a two-minute walk from the closest beach and a 13-minute walk from Sagres Point. Yoga on this holiday will also be led by Burke Kennedy. Twice-daily yoga sessions will be held in the mornings and evenings, which will be suited to all levels of yoga practitioners. Afternoons are free to spend at your leisure. Prices star t from € 79 9 p p , i n cl u d i n g return flights from Dublin, transfers, five nights’ half-board accommodation and eight yoga sessions with an expert instructor, with the flight departing on October 19. To find out more about these offers, and to book, see www.tdactive.ie.
A range of affordable holidays invite you to set off to a range of sun-kissed shores, with great deals currently available to stay in Torremolinos (main), Fuerteventura and Malta (right)
The sun is closer – and cheaper – than you think ian begley
Travel Editor
THE beaches of Europe have always been extremely popular with Irish holidaymakers, with the Algarve, Fuerteventura and Majorca remaining firm favourites for 2016. If you’re dreaming of a sunshine getaway, it’s closer and cheaper than you think. From only €189, you could spend a week lounging on a golden beach, soaking up the sunshine and letting life’s worries melt away. GoHop.ie have put together a list of sun holiday packages to some of the most popular destinations to help you escape reality and catch some rays this May.
Malta Spend seven nights
in Malta from €274pp. With return flights from Dublin airport on May 14, spend seven nights in a four-star accommodation on a self-catering basis. Located in the South of Europe in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is a haven for those in search of tranquillity and relaxation. This beautiful island is relatively small in size; however, it undoubtedly delivers quality on all fronts. From buzzing nightlife, colourful festivals, delicious cuisines and spectacular, natural scenery, Malta is a compelling and exciting country. It comprises three separate islands, with the main one being Malta itself, followed closely by its counterparts, Gozo and Comino, which are
famous for their peaceful atmosphere and watersports facilities. As well as its yearround temperate climate, it is a country abundant with history and fascinating culture, with monuments such as Fort Rinella and the Church of St Mary being tourists’ favourites. However, no one can forget the iconic sanded beaches that cluster the area, and the all-around natural beauty that can be found in all areas of Malta.
Torremolinos Spend five nights in Torremolinos from €189pp. On May 16, fly to the Costa del Sol popular holiday resort and stay for five nights in three-star accommodation, on a self-catering basis.
Torremolinos is one of the most popular holiday resorts in the Costa del Sol. It is the perfect blend of a traditional fishing village and modern city. This holiday destination is home to several gorgeous beaches, leisure facilities, delicious food and much more. Summer is the most popular time to visit Torremolinos, so expect crowds. There is hardly any rainfall during the summer season, but temperatures can drop significantly in the evening; however, this is seen as a relief by most tourists.
Fuerteventura Spend seven nights in Fuerteventura from €293pp. On May 24, fly from Dublin to spend seven nights in three-star accommodation on a self-catering basis.
With the exciting Oasis Park, world-famous surfing, sun-soaked beaches, and a truly laid back atmosphere, Fuerteventura holidays are ideal for families, couples and groups. The best time to visit Fuerteventura would probably be from April to June, when the weather is gorgeous and the summer rush has yet to hit the island. Unwinding on a gorgeous beach, and with soft sands and warm, sparkling seas, and a dazzling backdrop of volcanic rock, you’ll soon discover why Fuerteventura beaches are renowned as being some of the finest in Europe. For the full holiday list of holiday offers from GoHop, see www.gohop.ie or call 01 241 2389.
21 April 2016 Gazette 21
eddie the eagle: britain’s plucky ski jumper gets an inspirational biopic
ReelReviews
Affectionately told underdog tale of a cool, if unlikely hero, wings it a bit
THERE must have been something in the air at the 1988 Winter Olympics. The event in Canada saw the world debut of Jamaica’s bobsleigh team – which of course became the basis for the plucky underdog classic, Cool Runnings. But a bigger star that year was Great Britain’s Michael “Eddie” Edwards – a ski-jumper who ecstatically took last place in the three jumps that he participated in. Retold with dollops of nostalgia and liberal helpings of Hollywood treatment, Eddie The Eagle (12A, 105mins) follows Eddie’s Olympic obsession from his early years. Growing up in Gloucestershire in the 70s, the young Eddie fawns over a treasured glossy almanac of the Games and becomes determined to become an Olympian. Undeterred by constrictive leg braces, a general lack of athletic prowess, and a tendency to injure himself, Eddie spends his childhood
Dave phillips
recreating the Olympic Games in the alleyways and fields of his neighbourhood. Fast forward several years and many pairs of broken glasses later, and the patience of Mum (Jo Hartley) and Dad (Keith Allen) is thinning as the now almost-adult Eddie (Kingsman’s Taron Egerton) refuses to settle down and get a job, and persists with his dream – or at least, a more nuanced version of it. Realising that despite his best efforts he may never qualify for any of the Olympic events, Eddie changes tack. A little research shows that Great Britain has had far fewer athletes compete in the Winter Olympics, and nobody has ever represented the country in Ski Jumping. So, with cogs set in
motion, Eddie sets out to fulfil his dream. There is no denying the fact that Eddie the Eagle is a straightforward and predictable underdog story, and it takes a little while to settle into the sappy, mawkish tone set by director Dexter Fletcher. Things are stepped up a notch when Eddie heads to train in Norway, and meets washed-up former jumper Bronson Peary (Hugh Jackman). Peary’s character – a hard-drinking former athlete who is bitter about his missed opportunities in life – adds a level of complexity to the story. And, while the story and roles remain pleasantly straightforward, the introduction of Jackman to the mix alongside Egerton brings a level of depth that is noticeably lacking in the film’s first act. Throw in some bullies to bypass, some officious snobbery from the committee, and a cameo from Christopher Walken, and you have more than
Gazette
CINEMA
the jungle book Go ape for this one
AN ALL-star cast add their weight to a wonderful retelling of The Jungle Book (Cert PG, 106 mins). Disney’s classic animation gets a modern reboot, with perfect animation bringing the jungle’s creatures to glorious life. While the likes of Bill Murray, Idris Elba and Scarlett Johansson add their voices, the luscious cinematography and action provide the centre of this enticing, bewitching film.
zootropolis
Disney’s roaring success Eddie, meet ‘Eddie’ ... The one and only Eddie “the Eagle” Edwards meeting Taron Egerton, portraying him in this warm-hearted film
FAMILIES have given their roar of approcal to Disney’s Zootropolis (Cert PG, 108 mins). The latest fully CG film for the studio takes a familiar cop trope – a fresh rookie trying to make their mark and solve a tough case, while teaming up with an unlikely ally – but creates something new and fresh. Warm-hearted, likeable performances add to the great design, making it a treat for audiences.
Trainer (Jackman) and jumper (Egerton) mentally prepare for the challenge
enough elements to help the story along through its almost two-hour running length. Eddie The Eagle, much like its subject matter, is a film that is clunky and ineffectual at times, but possesses something greater that causes its flaws to fade. D e x t e r F l e t c h e r ’s vision – which starts out so sickly sweet and overwrought with halcyon day sentimentality
– eventually transforms into a much more significant commentary on human potential. While the film never stops being light and whimsical, there is something in the story of a boy from Gloucestershire pursuing his dream at all costs that is endearing and undeniably heart-warming to watch. Just as films like Cool Runnings and The
Mighty Ducks captured an underdog spirit for a generation growing up in the 90s, Eddie The Eagle deserves to become an underdog classic for a new generation. The film is a guaranteed dose of feel-good vibes, and a reminder of that Olympian motto: the important thing in life is not to triumph but to compete.
Verdict: 7/10
the huntsman Snow thank you ...
THE Huntsman – Winter’s War (Cert 12A, 117mins) is the prequel to 2012’s lovely looking (but super dull) Snow White and The Huntsman. Charlize Theron is once again as cool as ice, while Emily Blunt and Chris Hemsworth gamely give their best. However, it’s once again all style, no substance, with a dreary heart that is likely to leave you even colder than Thereon’s Queen.
Gazette
22 Gazette 21 April 2016
OUT&ABOUT
GAMING
WEEBYTES RACHET & CLANK: THIS colourful REBOOT PROVIDES some PAWS FOR THOUGHT
The Samsung Gear VR
Praising the virtues of new tech Shane dillon
I’LL be taking quite a detailed look at virtual reality (VR) later this year, but for now, many readers will have already noticed the extensive advertising currently surrounding one of the first VR sets – the Samsung Gear VR headset, which has a price point aimed at a mass market (currently circa €249). It provides a pleasing, modestly-priced introduction to VR and, more importantly, it proves to the masses that VR works, and could wow as a new entertainment (or infotainment) format. You simply slot one of a number of Samsung phones (you can easily check for compatibility) into the front of the large but light headset, which is easily secured to the head, and can be adjusted. Then, by tilting or turning your head, the ‘screen’ (viewed a little as if through binoculars) changes the view to match, providing a great connection to the screen’s content – simply, it’s as though you’re really in that place you’re viewing, but you’re able to look all around you. While looking slightly pixelated, the tech is very impressive, and immersive, with Samsung likely to stay the forerunner in this exciting new tech sector for a while to come.
Cat-like Rachet and his pal, Clank, deliver an almost purrr-fect title
I REMEMBER Rachet & Clank (Cert 7, c. €35) when it first came out – in 2002 for the PlayStation 2. While the PS2 had no shortage of wannabe console icons (for a while, Crash Bandicoot was the face of the PS2), Rachet & Clank still stood out at the time. They were the stars of a lively platformer which saw the mismatched duo – an energetic catlike creature with aspirations to be a Space Ranger, and a diminutive but plucky no-nonsense robot pal that he found – team up to run around on several creatively rendered planets, with a host of wacky characters and even wackier weapons added to the mix. Simply, R&C, created by Insomniac Games, was a winning formula, and provided lots of fun in that first entry, and in many of the franchise’s additions afterwards. Flash forward to today, and Rachet & Clank are getting a full franchise
shane dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com
reboot, which has worked very well for a number of other games of old (sit down, Lara Croft – gamers know that the recent Tomb Raider reboot was particularly successful). To use the new game’s marketing tagline, it’s “the game based on the film based on the game”, seeing as the determined duo are also getting the big-screen treatment, with a film on the way very soon – making it perhaps perfect timing to get the hype machine going with this lively reboot and relaunch. At its basic level, Rachet & Clank goes back to its roots, to largely reimagine the very first game in the long-running franchise. (In fact, you’d need a third hand to count all
the entries in the longrunning series across the years.) However, it’s not a straightforward, beatfor-beat retelling of the original game and story, as it mixes things up a bit, adding in characters not seen until later entries in the franchise, and follows a slightly wayward story, thanks in part to its particularly unreliable narrator. Still, in essence, it’s classic Rachet & Clank – the pair once again travel around several planets, while a number of minigames, or changes to the game’s style, break up the action. Everything is presented with plenty of goofy jokes, sight gags, and an enthusiasm to provide plenty of fun always close to hand. Visually, the game’s a real winner, with terrific cinematics that indicate the quality of the upcoming film, but they’re just the icing on the cake – the game’s worlds and design are packed with detail.
Everything from the bustling cityscapes in part of the game to delicate light effects and material reflections all add up to help craft a very pretty title, making each world a joy to roam around, just taking in the sights. Not that gamers will be stopping for the views very much, as there’re a lot of bad guys to dispose of in each world, with plenty of weapons to do so. They deserve a special mention. When facing endless bad guys, Rachet and Clank have several weapons to use to even the playing field – with plenty of upgrades to make them ever more powerful. With weapons that, for example, turn enemies into placid sheep, or force them to start disco dancing, or even turn them into 2D ‘pixel’ versions of themselves, the game’s sense of silliness and lighthearted fun is always close to hand, even during some of the game’s
busier moments. However, while it perhaps stays a little too close to its overly familiar roots, that’s not a bad thing, as Rachet & Clank have delivered a great platformer for the PS4. Indeed, while the PS4 has tons of excellent games for older players, it’s a little less well served by games for younger players, or families – at least, based on what I’ve seen on the shelves around many Dublin shops at the moment, with more fam-
ily-friendly titles barely getting a look in. However, Rachet & Clank is likely to do very well, as despite its brevity – it’s not the longest, or biggest game in the world – it’s wonderful to look at, and is also lots of fun to play;. With its welcome delivery of a blast of family-friendly fun for the PS4 (or for any gamer who appreciates a wellcrafted title), Rachet & Clank is available this Friday, April 22.
Feline-feeling Rachet and his robot pal Clank (top) explore several colourful worlds, with plenty of silly Drawing on shared assets from the upcoming film about the duo, the game often looks fantastic
moments thanks to their creatively daft weapons
21 April 2016 Gazette 23
Gazette
MOTORING
Already an impressive lineage, the Corsa’s Opel Performance Centre edition is a winner on all fronts
opel corsa opc: power and a dash of perfection create this memorable motor
A high-performance model that’s certain to turn heads
dave phillips
THE new Corsa turned out to be one of our favourite cars to test last year, with the fifth-generation model – a solid drive that is full of pep – striking the right balance between fun and functionality. And, right on the heels of the regular release of Opel’s hot hatch was a very special OPC (Opel Performance Centre) edition that we had the pleasure of taking out this year. OPC editions are top of the line renditions of Opel models, pushing the cars to the maximum in terms of performance, engine technology, and design. With a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, and Opel
claiming a top speed of 270kmph, there is no escaping the happy fact that the OPC Corsa is an out-and-out sports car. That said, it is a sports car that – if you were so inclined – you could also get away with nipping down to the shops in. Heads may turn if you do, as the test car we took out looked stunning. Decked out in Flash Blue (a colour unique to this OPC model), and sitting on 18-inch black alloys, the OPC Corsa builds on the model’s athletic look, and adds some extra flair with side sills, a rear roof spoiler, and a twin-pipe exhaust. The overall effect looks a breed apart from the traditional Corsa, boasting more of a mature and refined race-track look.
That polished aesthetic follows into the interior, where there is no souped-up, high-gloss sheen. Instead, things look clean, uncluttered, and sturdy. There is an elegant leather finish running across the heavy-stitched Recaro seats, the flat-bottomed racing wheel, and a short-throw gear lever. And that leather-clad lever, despite it being a small thing, is significant – the first thing you’ll notice are the specks of that vibrant OPC blue tastefully demarcating the gears. The second is the weight and robustness of it; this really feels like something that will stand the test of time and will still feel satisfyingly strong and firm 20 years
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‘The real selling point here lies under the bonnet ... the OPC Corsa is a machine that is built for highend performance. Every gear feels swift and powerful.’ --------------------------------------------------------
down the line. There is all the tech you can expect from the standard Corsa, with the simple to use IntelliLink system serving for entertainment and GPS demands. But, of course, the real selling point here lies under the bonnet. Getting to 100kmph in just 6.5 seconds (a statistic you won’t care to test, because it feels so evident), the OPC Corsa is a machine that is built for high-end performance.
Producing plenty of torque in lower revs, every gear in the OPC Corsa feels swift and powerful. The squat position (this model has dropped an extra 10mm since its last incarnation) and incredibly precise steering mean the car really hugs the road around bends and is a blast to drive in the open. The OPC Corsa starts at €29,995 (the model we tested with extras retails at €33,170) and falls into
Sturdy design elements are presented with luxurious touches, creating a cabin that feels robustly upmarket
the E tax band (€750), so this is going to be a car that will only ever appeal to a niche group of buyers – but for those in the
market, this is a stunning piece of work that feels like it still be humming smoothly a generation from now.
Gazette
24 dun laoghaire gazette 21 April 2016
OUT&ABOUT
Railing against all the Luas strikes affecting Dubliners
IN OUR vox pop, we sent our reporters out on two successive days to ask a random selection of people in the street about the ongoing Luas stoppages. Remarkably, having spoken to up to 50 people on and off the record, not one supported the union’s stance on this issue. Our reporters, Ian Begley and Emma Nolan, asked each respondent these two questions: “Do you support the Luas strikers’ action? Will you be affected by any more industrial action?” This is what they had to say ...
JIM WALSH
I DON’T support the drivers, because I think they’re reasonably well paid as it is. I think they’re looking for the same wages as train drivers, who have more responsibility. I will be disrupted by further strike action – I use it to get out to Sandyford, and it’s hard to get out there without the Luas.
much, but I do not support the drivers’ strike. Number one – I think they really did terrible damage to themselves on the Easter weekend, but I just think they should have gone into it better with their eyes open. Number two – I actually don’t blame the drivers, I blame the union. I think they should have taken more responsibility and realised that it was way beyond their scope to get that amount.
Josephine
Litchfield
I USE the Luas rarely to get into town, so it doesn’t affect me that
Elaine Moriarty
EDEL HOGAN
pat cryan
I FIND it very disruptive, and the demands being made by the drivers are insane. The prospects into the future seem pretty dire, because their seems to be no middle ground or settlement on the horizon. T he strikes won’t affect me as much, because I’m retired, but we always use the Luas – we never take the car into town – so it would affect us, in that sense.
with the whole 53% thing – I just think it’s greedy. T hey should have started off at a lower rate and built up from there, whereas, because they publicised the 53%, I think everyone is against them because of that, unless you’re related to one of the drivers. Student doctors and nurses are getting paid less, and I don’t agree with that concept.
Also, I think if the company give into the Luas drivers, I think it will have a knock-on effect. All the others will start making noises and I’m not sure the country can afford the kind of increases they’re looking for.
I’M HALF and half. I just think, especially over the Easter Weekend, they sort of held the country to ransom – they knew it would be a busy weekend for tourism, and that kind of thing. They knew what they were getting into when they signed up for their job – the difficult hours and having to work bank holidays. My own husband is a taxi driver, and he works unsocial hours as well. So, in a way, I’m 90% against what they’re doing. It’s a great service, but if they get away with it, it opens a can of worms for any other people to go on strike.
I DON’T support them, because I work in Tallaght and have to get the first Luas. They always stop at the Red Cow for about 10 minutes in the morning, nearly making us all late. A junior doctor only starts on €31K a year, and gardai are at €23K when they start – the Luas driver’s job is so simple in comparison, yet they’re making so much.
looking for a 50% hike? I’ll be disrupted by further strike action and will have to walk, so it’s a bit mad, y’know.
Kate O’Reilly
I FEEL disgusted at their behaviour. I think, given the political climate, they’re just asking for too much and are totally intolerant about what’s being offered already. As a member of the public, I feel totally discommoded with their behaviour. They’re not just going on strike, but are deliberately delaying their trams at peak times.
-------------------------------------------------------
‘I also think the amount of a raise they’re looking for is a bit over the top, because compared to some other professions, they don’t have to do much training’
Michelle Horan
I THINK the whole thing is a disgrace. It’s terrible that they’re holding the public to ransom, because so many people depend on its service. I think it’s gone on for too long, and to strike on Easter Sunday didn’t do them any favours. A lot of people with no income at all have to survive, so why can’t they get by with what they’re on?
--------------------------------------------------------
Aine O’Dwyer
Emily Graham
Jonathan
Richardson
PAUL MORAN
I DON’T support the Luas drivers. If they wanted a small increase, then fair enough, but I don’t agree
I’M FROM the US and we don’t have strikes like this. I believe everyone has the right to strike, but I just think that it’s a little outrageous to ask for about a 40% increase when they’re already earning so much
MY OPINION from what I heard is that junior doctors and nurses are working twice as long for half the money, yet the Luas drivers only do what they do – sit there and drive the Luas, and they’re
I THINK a cer tain amount of it is okay, but some of the days they’ve been striking on – like during the Easter weekend and the Centenary celebrations – were a bit ridiculous, because it was a once in a century event and they caused a lot of hassle for people trying to get in and out of town. I also think the amount of a raise they’re looking for is a bit over the top, because compared to some other profes-
21 April 2016 dun laoghaire gazette 25
sions, they don’t have to do much training. I’ll be affected by further strikes because I won’t be able to get to Heuston Station to get the train home.
Ailish Durney
THEIR demands were too high to begin with and Transdev called their bluff, so I just don’t know where they’re going to go from here. They don’t have the people on their side, and I just find the whole thing ridiculous. --------------------------
‘Everyone deserves to be heard, I guess’
--------------------------
Fiona Shannon
I SEE where they’re coming from, but what they’re asking for is a bit too much. But everyone deserves to be heard, I guess, and if they want more pay, then I guess they deserve it, but at the same time, they’re asking a bit too much. I will be inconvenienced by the strikes for getting to work and other activities.
Luas commuters who The Gazette spoke to were united with the same criticisms of the Luas drivers, their pay demands, and their union’s tactics
Gazette
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26 dun laoghaire Gazette 21 April 2016
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28 dun laoghaire gazette 21 April 2016
SPORT
FastSport Shelbourne sign former Ireland star: SHELBOURNE FC have signed former Irish international Stephen Elliott until the end of the season, subject to international clearance. The Dubliner played his early football with Belvedere FC and Stella Maris before signing for Manchester City in 2004. He later moved to Sunderland, where he worked under Mick McCarthy. The striker then followed McCarthy to Wolverhampton Wanderers before spells with Preston North End, Norwich City, Coventry City, Hearts and, most recently, Carlisle United. He ruptured his Achilles tendon while playing for Carlisle back in October 2014 and underwent surgery. The 32-year-old represented the senior Ireland team on nine occasions, scoring once: the winning goal in a 1-0 World Cup qualifying victory against Cyprus in 2005.
soccer: over 1,300 students take part in Primary school festival
Ringsend abuzz for cup finale sport@dublingazette.com
IRISHTOWN Stadium played host to the Dublin county finals of the SPAR FAI Primary School 5s Programme, the culmination of a programme that saw 1,376 students take
part. Indeed, 272 students from 34 schools played in the Dublin finals where just six schools earned progression to the provincial finals. The A Cup, open to boys and/or mixed
St Damian’s celebrate. Pictures: James Crombie/Inpho
teams, had 10 highly competitive schools with the final between the impressive St Joseph’s, East Wall and Our Lady of the Wayside, Bluebell. It proved a thrilling encounter with St Joseph’s, East Wall winning out in the end. The B Cup also proved to be a tense affair with four teams involved in this division. Mary Queen of Angels, Ballyfermot emerged on top with Taney Parish NS a close second. The C Cup was another hard fought contest between four passionate schools. St Mark’s from Springfield in Tallaght eventually came out on top ahead of St Molaga’s, Balbriggan, St
Mary Queen of Angels, Ballyfermotcelebrate their success
Benedict’s, Ongar and St Colmcille’s, Knocklyon. On the girls side, St D a m i a n ’s , Wa l k i n s town emerged victorious from eight participating schools in the A Cup, catering for small schools. They were too good for Scoil Treasa Naofa in the final. Gaelscoil Cholmcille came out on top in the B Cup ahead of St Patrick’s, Chapelizod while Our Lady of Good Counsel GNS, Johnstown sealed qualification in the girls C Cup for large schools, overtaking St Vincent de Paul Girls’ school in the final game. The girls division has continued to grow over the past number of years
with almost 500 students taking part in the Dublin competition. T he winners from each division will now progress to the Leinster finals on April 28 in Navan. The SPAR FAI Primary School 5s competition has been in existence since the mid 1990s and saw nearly 20,000 par ticipants from 1,069 schools involved last season. The competition is run across six divisions, ensuring that schools of all sizes are catered for. Depending on their size, a school can enter several teams into the competition. Boys and girls are encouraged to play together but there is
a separate competition for boys and girls dependent on school enrolment numbers. Fergus McDaid, secretary of FAI Schools stated: “T his is our second year with title sponsors SPAR and the competition is expanding year on year. The support shown by Spar ensured this grassroots initiative really supports Dublin’s local talent. “The event encourages children to become involved in soccer at an early age and emphasises the fun aspect of the sport. FAI Schools are delighted to be hosting the finals on Wednesday, May 11 in Aviva Stadium, something which the children will relish I’m sure.”
Clohisey leads Raheny to national road relays success sport@dublingazette.com
Raheny’s Mick Clohisey, Kieran Kelly, Mark Kirwan and Daire Bermingham. Picture: Tomas Greally /Sportsfile
RAHENY Shamrocks won their first senior men’s title in five years at the GloHealth National Road Relays on home soil last weekend in perfect running conditions in the north Dublin suburb. They greeted 33 clubs and over 80 teams on an excellent day of racing. The masters’ women (O-35 and O-50) got racing underway at 2pm and it was Sli Cualann were first to strike gold in the four-mile relay (1-2-1 mile legs)
in the O-35 section with 23.19. The F50 Raheny Shamrock women took top honours in 27.30. There was a great finish to the masters’ men’s O-35 race with Donore Harriers just holding off Rathfarnham WSAF in the final one-mile leg of the four-mile relay in 19.34 to 19.36. Mick Traynor led Raheny Shamrock’s M50 team to a comfortable win in 20.25. Leevale AC retained their women’s title in convincing style. Carol Finn got Leevale’s ladies off to a good start with a
5.11 opening mile leg, handing over to Lizzie Lee, who extended their advantage with a 10.38 two-mile leg. Next up was Michelle Finn, who took Leevale to victory with a 5.01 leg, giving them a 31-second winning margin over Crusaders, who edged Sli Cualann for second. In the men’s race, a recordbreaking three-mile leg from Raheny’s Mick Clohisey of 14.04 proved pivotal in helping them to gold for the first time in five years, with Mark Kirwan, Kieran Kelly and Daire Ber-
mingham also playing their part. Raheny came home 18 seconds clear of Ennis Track, who held off Kilkenny City Harriers for second. John Travers of Donore Harriers equalled Clohisey’s record on the three-mile leg, helping his team to fifth. Meanwhile in Santry at the Irish Universities Championships, DCU again took victory in both men’s and women’s team events, their tallies of 178 points in the men’s and 156.5 in the women’s more than double that of their closest challengers.
21 April 2016 dub laoghaire gazette 29
Gazette
Bullish Bastick keen on more league glory
FastSport
Templeogue Synge Street midfielder talks about the fun of being part of a Dublin side in the midst of an incredible winning run in the national league ahead of Kerry final date Top line-up confirmed james hendicott
sport@dublingazette.com
HAVING already sold a substantial 50,000 tickets, with the promise of a 3,500-participant Easter Rising centenary event and the small matter of two league finals to play out, the finale of this year’s early-season GAA action is arguably the best prospect it has been in years. With Dublin and Kerry – the two main contenders for All-Ireland glory come September – facing off for the first time in a league final since 1987, however, the good natured ribbing between Dublin’s Denis Bastick and Kerry’s Bryan Sheehan can’t hide the edge to a final that has none
of the league’s usual early-season indifference. As Bastick and Sheehan sit next to each other in Croke Park a few days ahead of kick off, they both admit to an added “bite” to this particular fixture, with Dublin keen to maintain their astonishing run of 21 games undefeated in league and championship, and Kerry out for post-All Ireland revenge. “There’s a lot to be said for momentum,” B a s t i c k t h r ow s o u t cheekily when asked about the Dubs’ winning streak. “We still go by the same old cliche, though. It really is one game at a time. “Winning becomes a habit, and that’s the place we’re in now. But
we’re always trying to get better.” Dublin’s attempts to get better have been fairly evident throughout their undefeated league season, in fact, not least in the capital side’s use of 35 different players over the course of the eight games that have taken them to the final. With young star Jack McCaffrey out injured, Ror y O’Carroll New Zealand-bound and Alan Brogan having hung up his boots before it all got underway, the experimentation has been substantial. While Bastick jokes that the side have “not at all” missed them so far, he is keen to talk up the parade of youngsters battering down Jim
Denis Bastick will be hoping that the league can be a launchpad to another push for the All-Ireland senior championship title. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/ Sportsfile
Gavin’s door in search of a regular first team shirt. “T hey’re tough to catch in training,” the Te m p l e o g u e S y n g e Street midfielder says of the newcomers. “It’s really unfair to single any of them out. I think it’s important for the younger guys to continue on. They’re a real
explained. “We upped it a bit. But we were expecting things to be tough. “We each try to step up to the plate,” he adds. “We have a great panel, and we’re going to need every one of them to step up at some point this season. “We know they will be big challenges to come.”
--------------------------------------------------------
‘We’ll have fun now because that is what the GAA is all about but on Sunday it will be all business’ - Denis Bastick
--------------------------------------------------------
bonus.” Both Dublin and Kerry made light work of their semi-final opponents on the way to the league’s big night. Kerry brushed aside Roscommon, while the Dublin rematch with Donegal – a game given extra edge by the gritty nature of the league contest just two weeks before – proved far from an even contest. “The league game was tough, so it did surprise us a bit to win by the score we did,” Bastick said of the semi, which saw a Dubs side that made 11 changes and took to the field without the influential Cian O’Sullivan batter the Ulster side 1-20 to 0-13. “We did our homework, tweaked things around and improved a few things,” Bastick
Kerry are clearly up for things, too. Bastick declined to comment on the idea that Kerry might be more motivated, laughing as he did so, while Sheehan admitted his side were “still very hurt by losing the [2015] All Ireland final. It would be very nice to beat Dublin, especially when there’s silverware up for grabs.” As for the good-natured approach to the game? “It’s always been fair between us,” Bastick says of Sheehan. “It’s generally good natured, shoulder to shoulder. We’ll have fun now, because that’s what the GAA is all about, but once we cross the line on Sunday it’s all business. That’ll be a different story.”
for Dublin 7s tournament IRELAND’S premier rugby 7s competition, the Dublin 7s Festival, has announced further details of its impressive line-up with seven teams travelling from foreign shores to take part in the event. It will feature the national sides of Italy, Germany, Jamaica and Norway as well as the Samurai international team and European heavyweight clubs; Ulster, Biarritz and London Wasps. Tough opposition can be expected from the Samurai International team who have become known for their eye catching kit and display sublime skills as well as the Italian national side who are ranked in the top 15 in the world. Two-time European Cup winners, London Wasps, and Rio 2016 hopefuls, Jamaica and Germany, add plenty of fire power to the line-up and the power and skill of Ulster, Biarritz and team Norway are sure to entertain and thrill in equal measures. The festival will also boast a domestic competition with current AIL Champions, Lansdowne FC among the favourites. Old Belvedere, UCD, Trinity College, St Mary’s, Bective Rangers, Blackrock College and Old Wesley will have other ideas as they look to display their class in the fast paced 7s format. Alongside the on field spectacle, spectators of all ages can enjoy live music, festival favourite DJ sets, a family fun zone, artisan food stalls and for the adults, a craft beer zone featuring some of Ireland’s top brewers. Speaking about the team announcements, organiser Brian McDermott commented: “Some of the most talented and exciting teams in the world have confirmed for the Dublin 7s Festival and the addition of Samurai International and the Jamaican national team only adds to the excitement. “It’s more than just rugby, we’ve gathered the best in music, food, family entertainment and craft beer. Whether you’re a rugby fanatic or just learning about the game we have you covered.” Tickets start at €15 for general admission and are available at www.dublin7sfestival.ie. VIP and corporate hospitality packages are available on request.
Gazette
30 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 21 April 2016
SPORT
FastSport
soccer: kilbogget club move nine clear at top of major table
Wesley just two points shy of playoff position OLD Wesley finished their Ulster Bank Division 1B campaign, coming up just two points short of a victory that would have put us into a promotion play off, falling 24-23 to UL Bohemians. To be fair the better team won, certainly based on their first half performance when UL Bohs looked more controlled, won some key turnovers and enjoyed a lower error count. Nevertheless, Wesley can be proud of a fifth place finish in their first season in Division 1B. Bohs spent most of the early stages in the Old Wesley half and out half Rick McKenna opened the scoring with a penalty after five minutes before Barry McLoughlin evened matters after 20 minutes. Soon after, Rory White crossed for the first try of the match for UL which was converted by McKenna to make it 10-3 to the visitors. McLoughlin was wide with another penalty attempt before McKenna struck again just before half time to make it 13-3 to the Limerick side at the break, an imposing lead. Wesley started the second half with more gusto as the kickers exchanged penalty goals before Bohs prop Philip Poillet crossed for a second try for the Munster men after Old Wesley were guilty of conceding a turnover. It all seemed to be going pear-shaped for Old Wesley. However, Ian Cassidy eventually got over for a try under the posts to give Wesley a glimmer of hope. A minute later, a knock on by Bohs was picked up winger Paul Harte who sprinted from the half way to cross for a second try. The glimmer was now a real chance with just one point separating the sides. The kickers again exchanged penalty goals and, with five minutes to go, the score was 24-23 to UL Bohemians. With Wesley anxious to get play into the opposition half and with the wind in their favour, a massive kick by Adam Kennedy from inside his own 22 went a metre too far. The ball went dead and play was brought back. With the clock now in red Wesley’s last hope was a penalty from a scrum on the opposition 10-metre line. The penalty came ok but the referee decided to award it to Bohs, denying Wesley their chance.
Cabinteely and St Kevin’s battle for possession. Picture: Paul Lundy/cabinteelyfc.ie
Cabo U-14s build big lead
ddsl u-14 major
Cabinteely St Kevin’s Boys sport@dublingazette.com
4 1
CABINTEELY Under14 DDSL Major side played some of their best football of the season against St. Kevin’s last Saturday to continue their push for the league title. Their recent success in the Eindhoven Euro Easter Cup, where they narrowly missed out on a final place and eventually finished fifth out of 48 teams overall, is now beginning to show. Cabo played with the wind in the first half
and scored two fine goals. Adam Moore opened the scoring from a well worked corner delivered by James Dunne, finishing neatly from 10 yards at the back post. This was soon followed by a fine finish for the second goal by David Baker, set up by a neat Glenn Wall flick after good build up play from James Dunne and Jack Lundy. 2-0 up at half-time and Cabo playing with confidence and drive. Playing against the wind in the second half, St Kevin’s had a few chances but found
horses for courses Mullins launches Blu deal with Killiney GC david Mullins, the 2016 English Grand National winner, was on hand to launch Radisson Blu St Helen’s Hotel’s Dublin golf partnerships. Mullins stepped out to mark the recently agreed sponsorship for the 40th annual invitation mixed foursomes week at the South Dublin-Killiney Golf Club to take place from May 15 to 20. Radisson Blu St Helen’s Hotel is also the headquarter hotel for the upcoming Curtis Cup in June later this year.
it difficult to get past stand in goalkeeper Adam Corcoran and some great defensive performances from Daniel Murphy, Sam O’ Cathain, Aidan Joyce and Adam Moore, who kept them at bay. A third goal came from great pressing by Ben Houghton, Darragh Lynch and George Downer who forced a Kevin’s defensive error which was calmly finished by David Baker, slightly against the run of play, to make it 3-0. A missed Cabo penalty did not effect the r e s u l t e ve n t h o u g h near the end of the
game Kevin’s eventually breached the stubborn Cabo defence and scored. In the final three minutes, Darragh Lynch made it 4-1 after excellent play from Nicolas Flynn, George Downer and David Baker. The victory came in spite of missing five of their regular panel due to injury, sickness and other commitments. Their bid for the title took another boost on Monday evening when they were 4-3 winners at Leixlip United, a result that pushes them nine points clear of the chasing pack.
They have the benefit of points in the bank but their opponents have a large number of games in hand. P e a m o u n t Un i t e d are second with three games extra to play while Shamrock Rovers have a massive six games in hand and 11 points to make up. It will prove difficult for Rovers, though, with 12 games still to play this season after a large number of cancelations throughout the campaign. Next on the agenda is a battle between Rovers and Cabo at the Roadstone club on Saturday.
21 April 2016 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 31
Gazette
25-card drive
Donegan emerges the winner at Kilmacud
Club Noticeboard Cuala
kilmacud Crokes annual 25 card drive for
2016 was won by Dymphna Donegan who is pictured being presented with the trophy by Yvonne Burke. She claimed the trophy in first place ahead of Joan McCabe who was second overall while Ann Hughes came in third. John Sheridan was one of the key players in the organising committee of the popular competition.
football: kilmacud too good for thomas davis
OUR senior footballers lost to St Jude’s
Memorial Golf Classic 2016 is on Fri-
on Saturday evening while, on Sun-
day, June 3 in the Glen of the Downs
day, our seconds, thirds and fourths
Golf Club. Contact Harry Roberts on
recorded wins over St Peregrine’s, Na
harry@officeshop.ie or Tadhg Murphy
Fianna and Trinity Gaels respectively.
on murphyt@ie.ibm.com.
Well done to our Feile B team who
Hard luck to Cuala’s Con, Martin and
overcame Naomh Barrog to win the
Darragh with the Dublin U-21s who lost
Division 7 hurling Feile last Sunday in
the All-Ireland semi final to Mayo by an
Parnell Park. Hard luck to our Feile As
injury time point.
who lost out to Naomh Olaf by the nar-
This week’s Cuala lotto jackpot is
rowest of margins at the semi-final
a massive €5,400. Our lucky dip win-
stage.
ners last week were Bob Allen and Pat
Good luck to our senior hurlers against Crokes in the championship
Harrington. Buy your tickets online at http://www.cualagaa.ie/lotto. Thanks to all those who came down
next Saturday evening in Parnell Park. All support welcome. Date for your diary: The Mick Holden
to the launch of The Cuala Cube in the clubhouse last Saturday night.
Shankill THE club is organising a golf classic,
dublin@gaa.ie or 086 4010438.
sponsored by Brady’s of Shankill, in
There are no trials, no selection
Powerscourt Golf Club on Friday, June
processes and no annual subscrip-
24. A teams of four is €300. Great priz-
tion. The U-12 girls lost to St James Gaels
es to be won. Contact John Doherty on 086 3215087. This is a major club fund raiser and we are asking everyone to get behind
Crokes’ perfect run in league continues
afl division one Thomas Davis 2-5 Kilmacud Crokes 1-13 sport@dublingazette.com
K ILMACUD Crokes continued their perfect start to the AFL 1 season with a 1-13 to 2-5 win over Thomas Davis, the form guide remaining largely intact at Kiltipper Road. It leaves Crokes sitting pretty at the top with four wins from four while Thomas Davis are yet to register a point in three outings. They were leading comfortably at half time with fine displays from goalkeeper David Nestor and cornerback
James Murphy. In the second half, Thomas Davis showed some real fight and added two goals but Crokes kept them at arm’s length and the game ended with Crokes five to the good. Stephen Williams was again a standout performer in Crokes forward line as they ran up 1-13. Thomas Davis have Division 2 side Skerries Harps in the senior Championship on Thursday week in Parnell Park at 8.15pm and will look to get their season going with a win. Crokes also have a Division 2 opposition in the form of
Naomh Mearnog on Friday next week in Cloghran at 7pm. Cuala’s tricky start to the campaign, meanwhile, continued as they fell 1-17 to 0-10 to St Jude’s in their tie on Saturday evening in Tymon North. The first half was a slow burner which ended 0-6 a piece with no real markers put down in which Cuala’s John Sheanon and Jude’s Diarmuid McLoughlin were the best performers. But, in the second half, Jude’s sparked into life and Cuala did quite the opposite and drifted out
of the game. The hosts were relentless with Brendan McManamon’s 1-3 and McLoughlin’s string of frees and scores from play causing the bulk of the damage. Chris Guckian and Mark McSweeney were also very impressive at centre back and centre forward respectively. They won out by double scores in the end and will take all the momentum into the sides next clash in senior championship on Thursday week in O’Toole Park at 7pm, the two sides locking horns once more in quick succession.
Anne’s. Fixtures for all teams will be available during the week.
the venture. Our juvenile academy,
There was a great turnout for the
sponsored by O’Donnell’s Pharmacy,
child protection course last Friday
Shankill, is in action every Saturday
night when we also had members of
morning at 10am in our home ground
the Stars of Erin club present. Well
at Shanganagh Castle.
done to our GPO Steve Davis and Willie
If you would like your child to join the Kilmacud Crokes have won four out of four in AFL1 so far this season
and the adult football team lost to St
Braine for organising the course.
academy, just come along any Satur-
New players for all of our teams are
day morning or contact us by tele-
always welcome. The adult football
phone or e-mail to secretary.shankill.
team contact is Kevin on 086 8449902.
Foxrock Cabinteely ORDERS will be taken for club gear will
erence should any group wish to con-
this Saturday morning in the club-
sider arranging a friendly/re arranged
house between 10am. and 11.15am.
game etc. Members should note that
Please note that all orders must be
this is only an indication on pitch book-
paid for on the day.
ings/availability and an e-mail must be
Congratulations to U-12 team man-
sent to Gordon Bell and Linda Carroll
ager David O’Connor on managing his
requesting the facility required, iden-
Johnstown school team to winning the
tifying dates/times.
Dublin schools soccer championship last week. The team went unbeaten in eight games, scoring 28 goals in all games
Only after confirmation that the facility is available should arrangements be made with the opposition and referees.
that they played. The team now move
The annual Seapoint mini rugby blitz
on to represent Dublin in the Leinster
takes place this year on Sunday, April
finals in Meath.
24. Seapoint will be using our club-
As well as David O’Connor, four Foxrock Cabinteely players – Mia
house and pitches from 8am until 2pm that afternoon.
Chambers, Sarah Foley, Nia Hayden
A reminder to those who have yet
and Maedbh Hanney – were on the all-
to pay their membership, that this
conquering team.
needs to be paid before April 30. For
With all teams now back training
members who may be experiencing
in Kilbogget, the pitch diary has been
financial difficulties, please contact
updated with the allocated training
our club registrar Niall O’Kelly at nial-
slots for the relevant teams and is
lok59@gmail.com and your registra-
available on our website.
tion will be processed mindful of your
This should be used as a point of ref-
circumstances.
GazetteSPORT all of your dun laoghaire sports coverage from page 28-31
cabo kings: Kilbogget club gets points in the bank in their pursuit of the DDSL Under-14 Major title P30
april 21-27, 2016
primary super stars: Ringsend abuzz for Dublin schools finals day P28
Cuala are looking to start their title SHC title defence on the front foot. Picture: Colin Behan
Cuala line up Crokes Reigning champions start title defence with huge test of their mettle as group one promises to be one of the tightest of this year’s SHC
aaron gallagher
sport@dublingazette.com
CUALA begin their defence as Dublin senior hurling champions with a potentially decisive opening fixture versus Kilmacud Crokes, a local rival and one of their key challengers for the title. The pair have shared continued success in recent years, Cuala winning their fourth championship last year and Kilmacud succeeding the year previous in 2014, the club’s sixth. The Hyde Road side were drawn in Group 1 as alongside Crokes, St Vincent’s and Ballinteer St Johns and will face Kilmacud this Saturday evening at Parnell Park.
Cuala will welcome back a number of Dublin senior hurlers to the side following county commitments, including Con O’Callaghan Paul Schutte, Oisin Gough, Colm Cronin, David Treacy and Mark Schutte. It is something which selector JP Byrne feels will no doubt help his side but adds that Dublin hurlers receive no preferential treatment at the club. “When the lads come back into the side they are team players just like everyone else”, he said speaking to GazetteSport. “They’re all great players in their own right but they are all very mature and when they come in they don’t expect any sort of special treatment. “We’re not dealing with egos; they are just
good, solid club men at the end of the day, so they just roll back in with the other lads and pick it up from there.” Kilmacud, too, possess a number of quality hurlers in their ranks such as Oisin O’Rorke, Niall Corcoran and Ryan O’Dwyer and will be vying to take the title back from Cuala, starting this weekend. “Both teams are probably looking to set down markers”, said Byrne on the early nature of the massive fixture. “We’ll expect a massive challenge from them and they will be expecting nothing less from us.” After three high-scoring wins in AHL1, Cuala stepped up their preparations with a challenge game against St Jude’s, who they beat in last year’s championship final, seeing
off the Terenure side 1-12 to 1-11 on a wet and windy morning at Bray Emmets. Byrne describes the game as an “academic affair”, with a number of younger players given the opportunity to play in the senior team given the absence of the senior Dublin hurlers in the side. “It gave younger members who have come in the team from the minor panel the opportunity to play as a level that they might not have been used to before”, he explained. “It gives them the opportunity to develop and process.” No major injuries have been sustained by Cuala with all players in the panel likely available for Saturday’s game at Parnell Park at 5.30pm.