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sTYLE page 18-19 January 31, 2013
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Month XX, 2012 Dun laoghaire • Blackrock • Cornelscourt • Deansgrange • Dalkey • Glasthule • Monkstown • Glenageary
INSIDE: Thar be entertainment galore at a recent production of Snow White at the Pavilion Page 6
Hurling:
Cuala claim local bragging rights in minor league Page 31
Soccer:
Cabinteely host Special Olympics blitz Page 30
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES.......................6 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................27
local energy: DLR’s planning for a year to remember is Gathering pace Page 9
New bid to tackle suicide praised Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
A NEW campaign announced this week by Minister of State with responsibility for mental health, Kathleen Lynch, to tackle young male suicide in Ireland has been warmly welcomed by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown politicians. The announcement of the Government’s National Suicide Prevention campaign followed the publication
of a cross-Border report that revealed the suicide rate in Ireland is one of the highest in Europe. Of the campaign, Councillor Neale Richmond (FG) said: “While there are services available for people suffering from mental health problems, there is a need for greater communication, both to the general public about their ability to offer support, and between the services themselves.” Full Story on Page 2
Skiier we go: Katherine’s glory to represent Ireland at Games DALKEY woman Katherine Daly
and Barbara Cahill had the honour of holding the Ireland banner aloft at the opening ceremony of the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea earlier this week.
Katherine will put her notable skiing skills to the test as she competes in the Alpine Skiing section of the games, joining two fellow Irish skiiers to represent Ireland with their peers at the prestigious games in South Korea.
2 DUN laoghaire Gazette 31 January 2013
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Following the publication of a cross-Border report that revealed the suicide rate in Ireland is one of Europe’s highest, Deputy Richard BoydBarrett (PBP) said: “The countries with the highest suicide rate increases were those most affected by the recession [including] Ireland”
Anti-suicide campaign is welcomed by locals T WO local Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown representatives have welcomed the news of a forthcoming nationwide campaign against suicide, while expressing their concerns that the high rate of suicide in Ireland may be attributable to the effects of the recession. The announcement of the Government’s National Suicide Prevention campaign followed the publication of a cross-Border report that revealed that the suicide rate in Ireland is one of the highest in Europe. Last week, Deputy Richard Boyd Barret (PBP) said: “The coun-
Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com
tries with the highest suicide rate increases were those most affected by the recession, namely, Greece and Ireland. “Is it the case that the policies of cuts and austerity are leading directly to the sense of despair and hopelessness felt among young people which is leading to this increase in suicide rates? Councillor Neale Rich-
mond (FG) agreed with Deputy Boyd Barrett that economic factors and unemployment were adversely influencing the suicide rate in Ireland. “The downturn in the economy has impacted on suicide rates. Common problems which impact on young men in particular include income, family and peer pressure, failure in school and low self-esteem.” Cllr Richmond welcomed the announcement of the suicide prevention campaign, and urged that it be widely publicised. “While there are services available for people suffering from mental health
problems, there is a need for greater communication – both to the general public about the service’s ability to offer support, and between the services themselves. “Road deaths in Ireland have declined in recent years thanks to a visible and focused campaign. It is my hope that we can see similar results in this area, too.” Kathleen Lynch, Minister of State for mental health, said: “We need to get involved in a massive public information campaign, specifically geared toward specific groups. We have gone past the notion of not speaking
about [suicide in Ireland]. “In the coming year, plans will be in place to have specialist nurses in hospitals so that when someone presents with issues of self-harming and feel they have no option but suicide, these people are trained for interventions and follow-up care to make sure the person continues with treatment.” Ciaran Austin, director of services with Console Ireland, the national suicide charity, said: “We welcome it absolutely. Statistics are at an all time high, and we need to get the message out there.”
Fire destroys Dalkey secondhand clothes shop bairbre ni Bhraonain
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A FIRE that broke out in a secondhand clothes shop, New To You, destroyed the business and an upstairs apartment in Dalkey village last week.
The fire broke out at about 2.15pm last Thursday, January 24, and the owner of New To You, as well as all staff from Paddy Power Bookmakers next door on Convent Road, were all safely evacuated. A spokesperson for Paddy
Power said: “We had some smoke damage to our premises in Dalkey and some wiring issues because of the fire, but we were back open fully the next day at lunchtime. “Thank God nobody was injured, and everyone was safe-
ly evacuated. There were two or three employees working at the time and the rest were customers.” Three Dublin Fire Brigade pumps dealt with the blaze over the course of several hours. Nobody was injured.
31 January 2013 DUN laoghaire Gazette 3
health
politics: cllr neale richmond (fg) publishes his complete earnings
EU award for local centre
Average councillor pay for 2012: ‘€27k’
bairbre ni Bhraonain
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THE average earnings for a Dun LaoghaireRathdow n County councillor last year were €27,003, according to local councillor Neale Richmond (FG), who has decided to publish his complete earnings for 2012. Cllr Richmond issued a statement detailing his earnings and expenses during 2012 “in the interests of transparency”. Last year, Cllr Richmond earned a total of €25,729.72, whereas he calculated that the average total earnings for a DLR councillor for 2012 were €27,003.
On top of a councillor’s gross salary of €16,724.04 were additional expenses covering travel, conferences, mobile phone, training and broadband. Cllr Richmond’s travel and subsistence for attendance at conferences for 2012 came to €1,583.41, his conference fees were €615, his mobile phone expenses were €600 and his broadband from August 2010 to February 2012 amounted to €479.
Member Cllr Richmond also receives a separate a n n u a l p ay m e n t o f €851.20 from the Dublin Regional Authority, of which he is a mem-
ber. This is not factored into his overall earnings total. He said: “This payment is f or Dublin Regional Authority meetings which occur once a month in City Hall. In my opinion, it’s a waste of time. “We meet to discuss matters relating to the entire Dublin region, taking in all four local authorities. “There are five DLR board members, but when the local government reforms are implemented in 2014, there should only be a total of eight board members on this authority. “There are currently 26,” said Cllr R ichmond.
bairbre ni Bhraonain
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Clock this: Group calls for action on policy published seven years ago WITH help from fellow Mental Health Reform volunteers Hannah
Ryan, Stephen Garry, Donal Browne, Kate Purcell, Andy Haughey and Christine Hynes, Aisling Concannon (centre) took the time to help highlight the seventh anniversary of the publication of the mental health policy, A Vision for Change. Mental Health Reform are calling on the Government to prioritise its implementation, with the group’s director, Orla Barry, saying: “It is striking that, despite the Government’s stated commitment to developing community mental health services, the years since the publication of A Vision for Change in 2006 have seen the proportion of spending on mental health services decrease from 7.2% to 5.3% of the overall health budget.”
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REHABCARE in Dun Laoghaire has won a top European honour in recognition of its standard of service. The local RehabCare centre won the European Quality in Social Services (EQUASS) award. Michael O’Connor, general manager of RehabCare, said: “We are delighted to have received [this award] for our centres in Dun Laoghaire. “The award is a tribute to our committed and flexible staff who each day work to enable the people who attend our services to achieve their goals, whatever they may be – such as moving into their own home, finding a job or learning how to drive.”
4 DUN laoghaire Gazette 31 January 2013
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Councillor Victor Boyhan (Ind) requested that the Boundary Commission limit the increase in councillors for
Do you need a friend to help you start or grow your Business? THE word Mentor, originally Greek, means “trusted advisor, friend and confidant”. Everyone running a small business encounters issues – specific or general – where another view would help, especially if this is coming from someone experienced who is able to take a detached view. For this reason, the Enterprise Board has a panel of Mentors who are appointed to small businesses for a series of meetings on a one-to-one basis, to help the entrepreneur through what ever issues are of concern. The Mentor assigned to the company has a clear objective – to help the owner manager grow and develop skills to enable them to overcome barriers which are impeding the business’ development. The Mentor is able to give the business the benefit of a vast amount of experience, together with an objective view of the issues which it is facing. The Mentor’s role is to guide and advise on the course of action to be taken in a given situation. The Mentor doesn’t become actively involved in the day-to-day running of the business, nor do they take on a role of an executive of a company. Typically, an assignment is of six months duration and during this period, the business owner will meet the Mentors five times. Further details on the Mentor Programme, and an application form are available on the Board’s website: www.dlrceb.ie or please call (01) 494 8400
economy: blacktie jobs lost
Formal wear outlets to close
SHOP LOCALLY
wards Commission set to report in May
DLR to 36, rather than 40, as was proposed for the county by the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan, last year
Councillors give views on boundary changes bairbre ni Bhraonain
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DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown councillors have submitted their recommendations to the Boundary Commission ahead of its report on boundary realignment and potential changes to electoral areas this May. Councillor Victor Boyhan (Ind) has requested that the commission limit the increase in councillors for DLR to 36, rather than 40, as was proposed for the county by the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan, last year. At present there are 28 DLR councillors, representing six wards. Cllr Boyhan said it seems logical to have six councillors for each of the six electoral areas. Cllr Gerry Horkan (FF)
submitted his opposition to an additional 12 councillors for DLR. He said: “It is hard to imagine that any organisation can be more efficient or effective with a 42% increase in elected members.” Cllr Horkan submitted that the county be split into two area committees of 20 seats each, and also asked that the commission retain Stillorgan as an electoral area. “The Stillorgan Local Electoral Area (LEA) includes a very significant commercial and social centre within the county.” Cllr Richard Humphreys (Lab) also submitted a recommendation to the commission that the Stillorgan ward be retained. “It has been in existence since 1985, and although the boundaries are shifting it has its own identity. Its district centre
is a vital part of the county development plan, so it is crucial to retain the Stillorgan ward as viable, whether as a six- or sevenseat [constituency]. “I also support the alignment of boundaries with permanent transportation features, as does the county manager. “The main one is the N11 which currently acts as a separating feature between the two area committees [Dun Laoghaire and Dundrum]. “I want that to remain in position, and am not in favour of Cllr Marie Baker’s (FG) suggestion to transfer Foxrock into the Ballybrack ward, as it would breach the N11 boundary, cut off that natural relationship and render the Stillorgan ward unviable.” Cllr Jim O’Dea (FG) said: “As a local repre-
sentative, I don’t wish to lose any constituents who might vote for me in the next election. “Councillors sim ply don’t like boundary changes but, in this case, we have to accept that there will be changes. “Councillors have no say in the changes to be made; we may submit our own recommendations, but the independent commission has the authority to completely disregard the views of any or all councillors on the boundaries of electoral areas.” T he Constituency Commission recommended last June that Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown “should form two constituencies, a four-seat constituency to be called Dun Laoghaire, and a three-seat constituency to be called Dublin Rathdown”.
T WO b r a n c h e s o f the formal wear hire shop Blacktie in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown are among 11 due to close as the company goes into voluntary liquidation on Friday, February 1. Both Goatstown and Dun Laoghaire Blacktie branches employ two staff members each and these, along with 46 other jobs, are now in jeopardy. Owner and Dragon’s Den panellist, Niall O’Farrell, who founded the formal wear company in 1985, has said that the shops will continue to trade until a buyer can be found. O’Farrell said the economic downturn, along with market changes, has resulted in the group’s closure.
High rates He said the liquidation had come as a result of a “decline in the formal wear rental market, increased lower-cost retailers from the high street, higher utility and branch operating costs, and unaffordable high levels of rates”. As well as Blacktie, the local business community has also suffered the loss of A1 Computers, a computer shop and service company in Dalkey which also closed after 22 years in business. Statement In a statement, owners Melanie and Jukka Kovero said: “Over the past few years our overheads and taxes increased while our customers have less to spend, and business customers are closing.”
31 January 2013 DUN laoghaire Gazette 5
6 dun laoghaire Gazette 31 January 2013
gazetteGALLERIES
Thea de Geus with Hannah Coleman as Snow White. Pictures: Geraldine Woods
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biting the apple: snow white at the pavilion
Happily ever after
A
RCLIGHT Theatre as recently staged their production of Snow White, as their 10th annual panto at the Pavilion theatre. The local group’s twist on this classic fairytale sees the beautiful Snow White
Sarto Kiernan and Sam Brett
Some of the other cast members
escape from the wicked queen of Foxrock, the hairy huntsman of Glenageary and the seven dastardly pirates of Dalkey. The audience enjoyed being entertained by the humorous performance, that had a local touch.
Karl O’Sullivan
Niamh Prior and Julie Lyons
Orla Byrne
31 January 2013 dun laoghaire Gazette 7
8 DUN laoghaire Gazette 31 January 2013
honour: high level of patient care with dr vard
Dr David Vard and his special award with Orla Sheehy, representing Sensodyne
Award for Killiney dentist Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
Killiney dentist Dr David Vard has received a special award in recognition of his patient care. Dr Vard received the honour at the Sensodyne Sensitive Dentist awards. Each year, patients from all over Ireland can nominate their dentist if they feel he or she has shown special care during their treatment. Dr Vard was nominated by his patient, youth worker Melissa O’Halloran, who has attended him for years. Melissa met Dr Vard 23 years ago after she suffered an accident on her bike. David was a dental student at the time and, over many visits to the Dental Hospital, Melissa
regained her confidence. Of the nomination, Dr Vard said: “I was flattered by Melissa’s correspondence in nominating me. I try my best to make a trip to the dentist less daunting, and my ethos has always been to treat all of my patients with the same high level of care. Thankful
“I am thankful for all my patients’ trust, which is steadily built up through clear, simple communication, in a relaxed manner. “I encourage parents to bring their kids at an early age, so as to make their first visit a pleasant experience. It is important to build confidence in the dental profession from childhood.”
Coding around: FG deputy launches a computer club for local children DEPUTY Mary Mitchell O’Connor (FG) and Sandra
McGuire put their coding skills to the test at the launch of a local CoderDojo at Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology recently. The local deputy was happy to join organiser Sandra
McGuire for the launch of the local CoderDojo club, which as a free, non-profit computer club for children set up in Cork in 2011 sees Dun Laoghaire join the ranks of dojos in 24 countries around the world, where more than 10,000 children attend weekly dojo classes.
Imagine winning a story competition IMAGINOSIT Y, the children’s museum based in Sandyford, is launching its first children’s story-making competition. W hat’s T he Stor y aims to encourage children between three and nine to use their wildest imaginations to create a magical story. The children can use any medium they choose to tell their tale, from a traditional story format to poetry or even painting. The competition is a
way to celebrate children’s imaginations as well as the importance of family time, the Imaginosity team have said. The competition will be open to all children, anywhere in Ireland, to enter individually and there will also be a school’s category open to every school throughout the country. T here are themed categories in the competition which will have their own age ranges. Parents are also being
encouraged to get involved in the competition and help their children to create their masterpieces. Judges
The panel of judges who will pick the ultimate winner includes such luminaries as playwright and author Peter Sheridan, children’s author Chris Judge, TV presenter Blathnaid Ni Chofaigh and more. What’s The Story will run from February 5 to
March 8, and the winners will be announced on April 15. Winners and r unners-up will receive a selection of prizes sponsored by Walker Books, Hu g h e s & Hu g h e s Bookstores, Halfords and Barton’s Coaches, along with prizes from Imaginosity themselves. If you want your child to get involved you can find out more information from Imaginosity on 01 217 6138 or log on to www.imaginosity.ie.
Top employee award scooped by local resident BLACKROCK resident Ludmila Yakimova has been awarded the Sodexo UK and Ireland Employee of the Year award. Of her win, Ludmila, who is hospitality floor manager in Davy Stockbrokers in the city centre, said: “I was surprised and amazed to be given such an honour, as I was not aware that my line manager had nominated me.”
Social entrepreneurs urged to seek share of €500k fund bairbre ni Bhraonain
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LOCAL social entrepreneurs have been encouraged to apply for access to half a million euro of new funding. The Social Entrepreneurs Ireland programme is now open for applications for this year’s awards, with a total cash fund of €500,000 available to support individuals with new solutions for social challenges in Ireland.
Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Fine Gael TD Mary Mitchell O’Connor is encouraging entrepreneurs in the county to avail of the financial support by applying for the grant. She said: “A substantial sum of €500,000 is up for grabs. This awards programme will see eight social entrepreneurs selected to partake in one of two support programmes – the Impact programme and the Elevator programme.”
The Gazette spoke to Eamonn Fitzgerald, programme co-ordinator with Social Entrepreneurs Ireland, who discussed the funding application process. “Impact and Elevator are two funding streams for social entrepreneurs. We expect to receive around 200 applications, and that will be reduced down to a final eight candidates. “These top eight social entrepreneurs will receive funding at different
levels. The Impact fund is the higher grant, and three of the eight finalists will get this grant, which offers direct funding of €130,000 and non-monetary support amounting to €70,000. “The remaining five finalists will receive the Elevator grant of €20,000 in direct funding, and a further €10,000 non-monetary assistance.” As far as the selection process is concerned, Fitzgerald said that the procedure is rigorous and takes vari-
ous criteria into consideration. “Which grant stream [the entrepreneurs] get depends on many things, but it comes down to how developed an organisation is. The final eight have to pass through a three-month programme after they are selected, which assesses their needs and weighs up all the information at hand.” For further information, see www. socialentrepreneurs.ie. The deadline for applications is February 18.
31 January 2013 DUN laoghaire Gazette 9
community New funding puts new energy into events
Schedule for The Gathering keeps growing bairbre ni Bhraonain
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Director of Environment for Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council Richard Shakespeare is busy organising the logistics of large and small Gathering events set to take place in the county this year. He spoke to T he Gazette about how plans for the diaspora events in DLR were progressing so far. “The council had 40 applications [for Gather-
ing funding] and six didn’t meet the criteria. “For the remaining 34, we wanted to add an extra €30,000 [from the council’s business grant fund] to top the funding up ourselves, as we wanted to help make the events as good as they could be. “If we hadn’t, each event would only get the minimum grant allowance of €500. So, we went to the council to get the additional funding as a matching [financial] exercise for the events. “As well as all of these
personal Gatherings, the council will also be putting on public Gatherings. The first is Bratacha, on May 9. It’s a flag and emblem event being run by the Genealogy Society, who will also be helping people to search their lineages on the day,” he said. Bratacha 2013 will be an international symposium on the history, heritage, culture and identities associated with flags and emblems. It will be held on May 9, Europe Day, and goes on
support Dogs for ‘blind’ evening bairbre ni Bhraonain
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Donal Connell, chief executive, An Post, Leo Varadkar TD, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and Jim Miley, project director, The Gathering 2013 at the unveiling of An Post’s new postage stamp celebrating The Gathering Ireland 2013 at the GPO
until May 11. The threeday symposium is being jointly organised by the Genealogical Society of Ireland and the National Maritime Museum of Ireland, along with Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company and the council. Shakespeare added: “Bratacha will also celebrate Ireland’s EU Presidency. and we will plant
herbaceous arrangements in all seven or eight colours of the European flags. We’ll also ask embassies to contribute herbaceous pieces in their own language.” Shakespeare spoke about the voluntar y nature of all Gathering events. “It’s really a large-scale community activation
programme. I suggested to those putting on events to get their relatives home, that they link it up with a public event and that could be the hook to get people over to Ireland. “We are also trying to get the small Gatherings and the public ones to fundraise for the Forgotten Irish [charity], in England.”
AN INFORMATION information evening for Guide Dogs for the Blind is being held on Tuesday, February 5, at St Patrick’s Parish Centre in Monkstown village. The evening is for those who wish to apply for guide dog support for a family member, and there will be a presentation on the night outlining the work guide dogs do. If you are interested in attending, the evening runs from 8 to 9pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the local guide dog team, sign up to volunteer for fundraising activities, or simply to learn more about the service.
10 DUN laoghaire Gazette 31 January 2013
gazetteGALLERY
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Olympic boxing gold medallist Katie Taylor with her parents Peter and Brigid
Shane Byrne and his wife Caroline
Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field and director Steven Spielberg
Lights, camera, action! Watch out for Spielberg H
UNDREDS of people gathered outside the Savoy Cinema in Dublin recently to get a glimpse of the starstudded red carpet at the European premiere of Lincoln. World famous director Steven Spielberg and the film’s lead actor, Daniel Day-Lewis, were joined at the screening
President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina
with guests including U2’s Bono and the Edge, Chris de Burgh, Rosanna Davison and Olympic gold medallist Katie Taylor. Some of the guests later went to the Burlington Hotel where props from the film were auctioned off in aid of the Wicklow Hospice Foundation.
Rosanna Davison with her parents, Diane and Chris de Burgh
Oliver Callan with his sister, Aine
Shane MacGowan and Victoria Clarke
31 January 2013 Gazette 11
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dublinlife
Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools
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centenary: events should be marked in ‘appropriate fashion’
Descendants of 1916 heroes call for creation of museum paul hosford
The direct descendants of two of the leaders of the 1916 Rising have called on Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, the Minister for Arts and Culture, Jimmy Deenihan, and the Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan, to back their proposal for the the creation of a 1916 Museum at 16 Moore Street. The group is also calling for the site’s National Monument sta-
tus to be protected. The group want the premises to be ready so that the museum can be delivered in time for the 1916 centenary. The members of the descendants group include Nuala O’RahillyPrice, the granddaughter of The O’Rahilly, the only leader of the Rising to be killed in action. He died on what is now O’Rahilly Parade, just off Moore Street.
Also in the group is John Connolly, the son of Roddy Connolly, a former Labour TD for Louth and grandson of James Connolly, who was the de facto leader of the rising. The O’Rahilly and both Connollys were present in the GPO in Easter 1916. John Connolly said that the museum would be a lasting legacy of a pivotal moment in Irish history. “We want the centenary of 1916 to be marked with
a lasting legacy, not just another passing parade. The proposed museum will be the centrepiece of an enduring legacy for our citizens and for visitors alike.” Ms O’Rahilly-Price added; “The pivotal events of 1916 need to be marked in an appropriate and fitting fashion.” The group also launched a newwebsite www.1916rebellion museum.com
Nuala O’Rahilly Price and John Connolly, grandson of James Connolly, with members of the Save No 16 Committee and Moore Street Traders’ Association at the launch of a new website and virtual tour for a proposed museum. Photograph: Eric Luke
Gazette
12 Gazette 31 January 2013
dublinlife
diary
Healthy way to cook and eat
Students from across Dublin have been invited to take part in the Takeaway My Way contest once again this year. T he nationwide schools cookery competition, which was launched by awardwinning chef Neven Maguire, along with Safefood and St Angela’s College in Sligo, challenges post-primary students to cook a healthier version of their favourite takeaway dishes. Now in its third year, the competition is open t o a l l p o s t- p r i m a r y school students, including students in Youthreach centres. Launching the competition, Fiona Gilligan, director, marketing and
communications Safefood, said: “Learning to cook and eat healthily are skills that can last students a lifetime and we would encourage all students, whether studying home economics or not, to grab an apron, pick their favourite takeaway dish, show us their passion for food and enter the competition.” To enter, students can submit their recipe online at www.safefood. eu/takeawaymyway or complete and return by post the entry form sent to their school before February 22.
jigs and reels guaranteed to get you moving If you are looking for
Award-winning chef Neven Maguire was joined by Sophie Sherlock from Collegiate Grammar School and Tully Irvine from Portora Royal School, Enniskillen, to launch safefood’s Take Away My Way cookery competition for postprimary students
something a little different and bit more energetic this Valentine’s Day, then a Gathering event called Ceili for
Valentine’s could be just up your street. You and your beloved can dance the night away to a live ceili band and, whether you are a set dancing aficionado or just like to leap around, the craic is sure to be mighty. As well as live music from Traditional Arts Collective (TAC), there will also be sean nos dancing displays on the night. TAC’s aim is to bring ceili back with jigs and reels guaranteed to get you moving. Special guest for the night will be Amaliya Morgan-Brown from Bandon, Oregon in the USA – named after Bandon in Co Cork. The entrance fee is €10 at The Grand Social, 35 Lower Liffey Street on Valentine’s night from 8pm to 11.55pm.
Calling all volunteers for Lollipop Day With just one month to go until the 12th annual Lollipop Day, the Oesophageal Can-
cer Fund (OCF) is calling for the help of volunteers across Dublin this February. Lollipop Day sees thousands of people selling lollipops for €2 nationwide every year, in an effort to raise vital funds for oesophageal cancer research, and the OCF are seeking the help of volunteers on Friday, February 22 and Saturday 23, 2013. “We are very fortunate to have an everincreasing number of dedicated volunteers, all of whom make Lollipop Day a success every year,” said Noelle Ryan, chairperson of the OCF. “But we still need more volunteers, so if anyone or any group is interested in helping out, please contact us on www.lollipopday.ie or on Lollipop Day’s Facebook or Twitter page.” For more information on Lollipop Day, to volunteer or to make a donation, go to www. lollipopday.ie or, to volunteer in Dublin call Sara on 087-2320970.
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31 January 2013 Gazette 13
C o m m e r c i a l F e at u r e
Tifco Group Photo – Mary Buckley (Group Operations Manager, Tifco Hotels), Pius Furlong (GM, Crowne Plaza Northwood), Niamh Murphy (GM, Crowne Plaza Dundalk), Garret O’Neill (General Manager, Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown), Magda Rybka (Deputy General Manager, Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown), Enda O’Meara (Managing Director, Tifco Hotels)
blanchardstown: EUROPEAN HOTEL OF THE YEAR
Prestigious award for the Crowne Plaza THE annual Hotel Stars Awards for Crow ne Plaza Hotels in Europe were recently held in Dublin for the first time, and at this annual event, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) recognised hotels and people for their outstanding performance and contribution to the business and the local community in which they operate. The winners are the best performing IHG hotels and individuals across Europe. At the awards ceremony, Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown was awarded both the Torchbearer Award and more importantly, the Crowne Plaza Hotel of the Year award for the Europe Region.
Hotel of the Year Award This category recognises hotels that have achieved outstanding results and have gone the extra mile to exceed expectations and bring their brand to life when looking after guests, employees and the local community.
Receiving the Award – Angela Brav, CEO of IHG Europe, Garret O’Neill (General Manager, Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown), Richard Solomons (CEO IHG Worldwide) at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre.
Torchbearer Award T h e To r c h b e a r e r Award recognises hotels that have achieved the highest levels of excellence through outstanding service. The guests at these hotels have responded with extremely high guest satisfaction scores.
Garret O’Neill, General Manager, of Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown accepted the award at the IHG European Conference which was held in Dublin for the first time and said “I was very proud to accept these awards as it recognises all the hard work and team effort we’ve put in
this year. “We’re constantly striving to go the extra mile so guests can expect a consistently high standard when visiting our hotel and we’ll continue to work together to keep delivering the same experience year on year”. Angela Brav, CEO Europe said, “Our hotels are only as good as the people working in them, so we are fully committed to supporting and developing our people. “We aim to provide the right environment, support and inspiration they need to fulfil their capability and these awards are a reflection of the fantastic talent we have working in our hotels across Europe”. Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown is based at the Blanchardstown Centre with 188 guestrooms and conference facilities for up to 600 guests. For more information please contact: Jennifer McKenna, Director of Sales & Marketing, Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown, Phone (01) 897 7741; email – jmckenna@ crowneplazadublin.ie.
All of the staff at the Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown were delighted to learn that the hotel has been awarded the acclaimed European Hotel of the Year Award by the InterContinental Hotels Group
Gazette
14 Gazette 31 January 2013
dublinlife FEATURE From Pirates to Porter, Praed’s played them all theatre: high society star talks to the gazette
bairbre ni Bhraonain
bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com
WHAT a swell party this is! The stage version of Hollywood musical, High Society, is coming to the Bord Gais Energy Theatre for five nights this February with a cast that includes Michael Praed – one of the heroes of 1980s TV show, Robin of Sherwood. The show is packed with well-loved Cole Porter songs such as True Love and Did You Evah, and also stars Sophie Bould as Tracy Lord, Daniel Boys as Mike Connor, and Keiron Crook as George Kittredge. Ahead of its Dublin run, The Gazette spoke to Praed, who plays Dexter in the musical. He started by reminiscing about his love for the city. “It’s been a long time since I was in Dublin, and that was for the musical, Carousel – it must be 19 years ago now. I can’t wait, because Dublin is my all-time favourite venue and I really don’t give false praise.” He discussed the genesis of the current stage musical version of High Society. “It’s very similar to the 1956 film version, but its true origin was a play called The Philadelphia Story in the 1930s. “It was commissioned for Kathryn Hepburn on Broadway, and was then made into an awardwinning film with Jimmy Stewart. “Then, 17 years later, High Society was made and some changes were made to the original
story, such as the Bing Crosby character – that I play – had been a yacht builder in the original, but is a jazz pianist now in High Society.” For Praed, who has been in a string of musicals throughout his career, the music in High Society is the main star. “It has such a beautiful score. Now, when I say that, I mean that there are very few composers who are truly iconic, and Cole Porter is one of them.” Praed has been performing in plays and musicals since the 1980s. “I got my lucky break with the Pirates of Penzance years ago. I love musicals, because there is a certain alchemy that can happen with them – when the music is good and the production is well done – that goes to the heart of truth. Magic
“There is a magic in music that is different; it moves people in a different way, and with an evocative scenario, can have a huge impact on an audience.” Harking back to his TV days, he recalled his time as Robin of Sherwood in the mid-1980s show. “There were two seasons of it and, to be absolutely truthful with you, it was incredibly hard work. We’d to be up at dawn and doing a fight scene, and work right through till evening. Yet, it was unbelievably rewarding, too, and the talented people I worked with were extraordinary. “There was no time
When talking to The Gazette about his upcoming role in the musical, High Society at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre, Michael Praed was happy to reminisce about his roles in some of the smash-hit TV shows of the 1980s
for a private life though. It was brutal going but, having said that, it wasn’t like coal mining or fighting the Taliban or even driving a bus.” Praed then went on to play Prince Michael of Moldavia in the smashhit television show, Dynasty. “It was the numberone show in the world,
and was a very well-oiled machine. I was welcomed with open arms and the crew was delightful.” Special buzz
He does not have a preference between TV work and stage work. “I like them both, and you can’t really compare them. Yet, theatre does give you that special
buzz, thanks to the presence of an audience, and I can’t wait to feel that with a Dublin audience again.” High Society runs in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre from Tuesday, February 5 until Saturday, February 9. Tickets are available from Ticketmaster at 0818 719 377, and cost €20.
31 January 2013 Gazette 15
DublinGazetteNewspapers cub reporters and photographers: december 2012 winners
H Reporter
Photo
of the
of the H
conor white
clara kinsella
Conor White from St Conleth’s College proved neither shaken nor stirred when he told us all about the school’s Build A Bank challenge which was given a special agent sheen with a James Bond theme. The mission was achieved and the project a big success, as was Conor’s article about the event, which wins him this month’s prize.
Clara Kinsella from St Finian’s Community College in Swords snapped a very jolly Michael Carruth when the Olympic gold medallist visited the school for its annual awards evening. Michael encouraged the students in a motivational speech that included the wise words, “if you believe, you achieve”. Well, Clara must have believed in her skills as a snapper, as she has achieved glory with this month’s prize picture.
MONTH
MONTH
Gazette
schools Get involved with our Gazette Schools pages
Dublin Gazette Newspapers are continuing to reach out to all the schools in our catchment areas to become a closer part of our community than ever before. Schools are the beating hearts of communities, one of the last places around which a community can gather. We are calling on budding writers and photographers from all of our schools to help fill the schools pages and, in order to encourage the next generation of journalists and snappers to get involved, we are partnering with Harvey Norman to present the Dublin Gazette Newspapers’ Cub Reporter and Cub Photographer of the Year awards. For more details, contact rheigh@gazettegroup.com, or on 01 601 0240.
Gazette
16 Gazette 31 January 2013
dublinlife
Q&A
business
Each life stage needs a plan CONTINUING my examination of financial planning for each stage of your life, this week, I start by looking at where you may be after the “Young and free” stage (as detailed last week).
GWEN O’Donoghue, Fresh Images
The beauty of caring for your customers GWEN O’Donoghue of Fresh Images beauty salon in Churchtown is set to celebrate 20 years in business next month. She qualified in 1989 at Loriam Beauty Therapy College in Dawson Street, with ITEC, CIBTEC and CIDESCO qualifications. When she spoke to Gazette BusiHow long have you been in business?
It’s hard to believe but it’s 20 years this year. I opened my doors in 1993.
What makes your business successful?
I think it’s the personal touch. I’ve always worked in my business. There are so many salons where you are just a name. We get to know our clients, remember what treatments they like and how they like them done. We remember their birthdays and get to know all about their families. It’s a friendship as well as a business.
What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?
We offer value for money and very competitive prices. We try to keep up with all of the latest trends and give the best customer care. We really do care what our customers think about us. We want them to feel that their hard-earned money is well spent at our salon.
How has the recession affected your business?
Yes, I don’t think that any business hasn’t been affected. The spending power of people has decreased, so we have to make sure that they feel that they are getting value for their money.
What have you changed about your business to combat the effects of the recession?
We invested in a new skincare brand called Guinot from Paris two years ago, and that has a large follow-
ness this week, she said: “I worked in a couple of salons before running a salon in Rathgar for three years, before opening my own in Churchtown. “I started with just a couple of rooms out the back of a tanning salon, and, after three years, I took it over. And here I am today, 20 years on.” ing. We felt that people were looking for more results . There was a time when they just wanted a massage – now, they want technology coupled with pampering. We all want to look and feel good, and especially in a recession, morale can be low, but if you look good, you feel good too, and it reflects on in all aspects of your life. We constantly run special offers which keep clients interested. We also have a loyalty programme that returns free treatments to our clients to thank them. This is very popular, because when you get something for free, it always feels sweeter. Old loyalty programmes meant you had to wait forever before getting your free treatment but with ours, you see results after just a few treatments. What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business?
I would like to see a set standard of training across the board. When I was at college, you had to have several top qualifications to get a job; they allowed you to work all over Europe. During the Celtic Tiger era, there were numerous beauty schools setting up and running courses, but they are only pieces of the courses instead of the full thing. It means that not every salon has the same level of qualified staff performing treatments, but they are charging the same. That is why you get such a variation in therapists – some aren’t as qualified others.
Relationship and children If you settle down with a partner, your financial priorities will almost certainly alter, especially if you have children. The financial actions you may want to be thinking about include such thrills as: • Creating an emergency fund. • Protecting both your incomes (if relevant) in case you are unable to work. • Life insurance for both you and your partner. • Buying a home with the help of a mortgage. • Whether you should be saving money, in case you want to send one or more child to private school, and/ or in case one or more goes on to further education. • Retirement planning. • Short-term saving for cars, holidays and so forth. If you have built up any debt, then becoming debtfree should be a priority. The Middle Years Financial priorities in your middle years will vary according to how much money you have earned during your 20s and 30s – and how you have spent or invested it. For some, it can be a period of relative affluence with a higher level of disposable income
becoming available; for others, it is a period of worry as retirement looms. Your priorities may include any or all of the following: • Creating an emergency fund. • Protecting both your incomes (if relevant) in case you are unable to work. • Life insurance for both you and your partner. • Paying off your mortgage and any other debts. • Retirement planning. • Short-term saving for cars, holidays and so forth. • Planning for long-term care if you are worried that your pension and/or the State may not provide for you sufficiently. Although pension planning should have been a priority as soon as you started work, the truth is it is not until many people are in their 40s or even their 50s that they begin to consider their retirement. Providing for a comfortable old age, therefore, may be the most pressing need. Next week: retirement. Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor
technology: storymap tells capital’s stories
Reasons to be ’appy when uncovering Dublin’s story laura webb
EXPLORING Dublin has taken on a whole new dimension, thanks to two film-makers who are behind a new smartphone app that sets out to tell the capital’s hidden stories. The Storymap App was launched last week and aims to rejuvenate the old tradition of storytelling, while combining the latest technology in film and mobile apps to capture a portrait of Dublin life, past and present. The app includes a library of 80 stories, presented in audio or HD video, each tied to a particular location in the city and told by a differ-
ent Dubliner. C o - f o u n d e r s To m Rowley and Andrew Flaherty first launched the project in 2011 as a website, www.storymap.ie. They discussed how they came up with the idea. “We both arrived back from working abroad and we were really frustrated with the way the city was being represented – bleak, empty and finished,” says Flaherty. “For us, the things that made Dublin truly special were still there to be celebrated – its people, its stories, its humour and its charm. “We couldn’t find work, and so we began Storymap as a way to use our skills to showcase the real cultural wealth
Tom Rowley and Andrew Flaherty are pictured at the launch of Storymap. Picture: Dominic Ledwidge O’Reilly
of Dublin, in a way noone had ever seen before. The support we got from people amazed us.” Co-founder Rowley says: “For a local person, it gives them a chance to see the city with fresh eyes. “By using the app and seeing a well-told story on the spot, you get to see it in a whole new light, and build a new
connection with it.” Stories include The Spire by Roddy Doyle, The Gap In The Map with Ciaran Wallace, and The Liberty Boys by Colm Keegan. The app was developed in DIT by Jamie Osler and Eoin Rogers, and overseen by Bryan Duggan, and is on sale in the Android and iPhone app stores for €2.59.
31 January 2013 Gazette 17
asdfsdaf P27 TRAVEl P24
MOTORS P23
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 can you give faye a new home?
A remarkable line-up: Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field and Stephen Spielberg at the premiere of Lincoln at the Savoy
red carpet: legends of cinema come to dublin for lincoln fundraiser
A Presidential premiere
rob heigh
A bitterly cold Sunday in January was brightened considerably last week when the stars and director of the acclaimed new movie, Lincoln, came to town to support a cause close to the heart of lead actor Daniel DayLewis. The European premiere of Lincoln at the Savoy Theatre on O’Connell Street, and a special post-screening dinner and charity auction, were held in aid of the Wicklow Hospice Foundation, a fundraising organisation of which Day-Lewis, Katie Taylor and Chris de Burgh are among the patrons. Wicklow-resident Daniel’s mother passed away in a palliative care cen-
tre in England and was moved to support the campaign for the creation of a similar facility in his adopted county. Speaking at the premiere, Day-Lewis said: “I’m really grateful people turned out for this. We’ve been doing benefits like this for a while, but with the economic situation at the moment, we were not sure an event like this would be possible. But we explored it a little bit and it turned out we could do it. Hospices are vital facilities that every county needs. We need these places, and we need to take care of people in the late stages of their lives.” The screening and gala event afterwards are believed to have raised over €250,000 for the foundation, bringing it ever closer to its fundraising target of €3 million.
Director Stephen Spielberg explained how he came to debut his latest film in Dublin. “Daniel really believed in the cause, and once he explained it to me, I believed in it as well. I’m very close to Ireland. I made Private Ryan here, and it’s a film close to my and Tom Hanks’ heart, and that was my introduction to the culture. It was such a wonderful experience; we have come back to Ireland time and again ourselves, myself and my wife and children. “Daniel didn’t have to convince me for long to bring the European premiere here. He threw it out as a possibility, and I said we should commit to it now, it was a great idea.” The film tells the story of the passing of the 13th Amendment to the
Constitution that abolished slavery at a time when the country was in the midst of the Civil War, which lasted for four years and claimed the lives of 750,000 citizens. Lincoln himself was committed to the reunification of the country at a time of extreme division, and his belief in democracy, the constitution and America helped to deliver peace and emancipation to the nation. Sadly, he only lived to see a few days beyond the end of the civil war before he was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth. The film has been roundly hailed as another Spielberg masterpiece, and the lead role appears to have been one that Day-Lewis was born to play. continued on Page 22
DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust, Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity, to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is Faye, a three-year-old Lurcher cross. This lovely lady was abandoned because she was pregnant and went on to break records in Dogs Trust having the largest ever litter, 15 puppies. All of her puppies have found their forever homes and we now hope its Faye’s turn to finally get a chance to relax and look after herself for a while. Faye is polite, sweetnatured, affectionate with a beautiful soul. This supermom just wants to snuggle up on a big sofa with plenty of toys to occupy her. If you think you can provide a good home for Faye, contact Dogs Trust at 01 879 1000. Further information about their work can be found at www. dogstrust.ie. All dogs that are adopted from Dogs Trust are vet-checked, vaccinated, neutered and micro-chipped before being re-homed.
GAZETTE
18 GAZETTE 31 January 2013
OUT&ABOUT Dressing right LAURA WEBB
LIFE STYLE SPORTS recently launched its first Men’s Fitness and Running Campaign – No Excuses. No Regrets. This campaign is dedicated to men’s running and fitness and is supported by the store’s top brands Nike, Adidas, Asics and Under Armour. Basically the message to everyone that as we all decide to get fit, following some overindulgence over Christmas, the one thing we need to make sure is that we train in the right clothing. With this in mind, the retail giant is also launching Fitness
Accessorize Leather Driving Gloves €34 NOW €16.90 Nike Steady €50 Miss Selfridge Zip Detail Embellished Dress €85 NOW €32 rs: wea penterNOW Accessorize Mod Egyptian Study Belt €10.90 Car€23.50 el Holl
(Life Style Sports Exclusive), Adidas Prime Zip Hoody - €46 €35 , Adidas TF Perfect ¾ Pant Adidas Clima Long Tank - €30
Under Armour Coldgear Compression Mock €55
Adidas 3 Stripe Fitness Track Top €52 NOW €35
Nike Shape Medium Support Bra Top €35 NOW €25
Adidas Kanadia €70
Nike slim shorts €28 Adidas Clima Core 3/4 tight €35
31 January 2013 GAZETTE 19
when getting fit Product Experts in store. Their job is to advise customers on the right footwear and clothing to wear for each sport. Mark Stafford, chief executive, Life Style Sports said: “More and more Irish people are looking to fitness and outdoor training to give them a release from the pressures of modern life. We know that participation levels are at a record high as people take to the streets, beaches, roads and bootcamps everywhere, determined to get active and be social. At Life Style Sports we are confident we have the best running and fitness range on the high street.” All items featured are available at Life Style Sports.
NIke Flex €65
Adidas Adiviz Jacket €65
Adidas Response 7in Shorts €32 €25
Under Armour Coldgear Compression Mock €50
Adidas Duramo 4 €50
NIke Dri Fit Cotton Sleeveless Tee €22
Acc essStyle orize Egy Life Sports ptian StuTeam d Belt Member €23.50 NOWAlvaro €10.90wears: Under Armour Storm Hoodie - €48, Under Armour Tech SS Tee - €22, Under Armour HG Mirage Short - €22 Adidas Clima 365 pants €45
GAZETTE
STYLE
Gazette
20 gazette 31 January 2013
OUT&ABOUT
CINEMA
Theatre
THE pavilioN THEATRE 01 231 2929 David Meade- Mind Reader
BBC’s fastest rising star is returning to the stage hot on the heels of his smash hit record-breaking TV series Make Believe, after three years of unprecedented success on BBC One. With a show that is as hilarious as it is jaw dropping, Meade has just returned from a US tour February 4, tickets €20.
Draiocht 01 885 2622 Beckett X 3
GODOT Theatre Company London are back with three more short Beckett plays on Wednesday, February 6 at 8.15pm in the Draiocht Studio. Tickets are priced at €10.
CIVIC THEATRE 01 462 7477 WAG
Former Fair City actress Gemma Doorly makes her directorial debut with her play WAG starring her former Fair City colleague and good friend Sorcha Furlong. Following its sell-out tour, WAG is a black comedy and modern fable. Set in the lavish surroundings of a sports star’s mansion while he is away, his wife has invited a guest around for a drink and a chat – his mistress. Running from Thursday, January 31 until Sunday, February 2, tickets are priced at €16 with €12 concessions.
Hugh Jackman takes Anne Hathaway’s Fantine to safety
review: les miserables hits the screen, led by hathaway
Not revolutionary IT IS one of the most famous stage musicals in the world. It has continued to thrill audiences across the globe and has been the subject of countless school plays. It is odd then, that Les Miserables would still, to this day, be without a definitive screen version. It has been seen as unfilmable and a 1998 adaptation of the Victor Hugo novel, sans musical numbers, limped to a paltry $14 million at the US box office. The difficulty comes from a number of different factors. Firstly, it is a story that jumps forward in time of ten and suddenly. Secondly, it is a story that is not about any one thing. It is ostensibly the story of Jean Valjean ( Hu g h J a c k m a n ) , a convict attempting to
Film of the Week: Les Miserables h h h (12) 158 mins Director: Tom Hooper Starring: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Helena Bonham Carter, Sacha Baron Cohen
Paul Hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com
make a better life while evading the clutches of police inspector Javert (Russell Crowe). But the story of Valjean is weak as a central strand for a film that clocks in at two and a half hours. Jackman does an admirable job, particularly vocally, in infusing his Valjean with whatever humanity he can, but the film is so scattergun, the exposition so wanting that he just doesn’t have the room to be a character on which to hitch such a large film. It is a shame, ultimately, because Jackman does
OUR VERDICT: AMBITION is not a problem here, as Hooper takes on a massive task. He tries to capture a definitive screen version of one of the most famous musicals ever. Unfortunately, he comes up short, with excellent performances and some nice visual flourishes not enough to compensate for a weak script, muddled scenes and rushed characterisation making for a film that feels more like a missed opportunity.
his best and takes the film on Valjean’s famously broad shoulders. He is aided by a star turn by Anne Hathaway, all blotched skin and short hair. As her Fantine becomes more and more desperate, selling her hair, teeth and body, Hathaway excels and her version of I Dreamed a Dream, shot in one extended close-up, is spine tingling. In one take, she claims the song as her own, demanding that hers be the definitive touchstone for the performance going forward.
It is incredible to see, particularly given that there were some who thought that Catwoman could not play the heroine of Les Mis. There are less good performances, though. Russell Crowe’s Javert is purposely rigid and inflexible, but Crowe’s complete lack of humanity makes any late character changes completely pointless. Amanda Seyfried is another who, while obviously talented, is hobbled by the script’s inability to nail down a central narrative.
Her Cosette, essentially the most important character in the film, is lost in the maelstrom of songs, revolution and characters. Another criminally underused is Samantha Barks, the British actress making her film debut. Her Eponine is excellent, but underutilised. With the popularity of Glee, there is a weariness of musical film and television and much of that comes down to autotune and the lack of authenticity it brings. Luckily, Hooper kept a dedication to live performance throughout the shoot and the results are mixed, but at least they are authentic. Jackman str uggles occassionally and Crowe slips into rock power balladeer, but Hathaway, Barks and the surprisingly good Cohen and Carter lift the film as close to definitive as possible.
31 January 2013 GAZETTE 21
GAZETTE
GAMING BYTES&PIECES
NIKE+ KINECT FITNESS: STEP UP TO EXERCISE
Plenty of help to fight the flab FOLLOWING Christmas over-indulgences, I’m probably not the only person wishing to ditch a few, um, unexpected kilos that have mysteriously jumped onto my weight. How did that happen? Why do I suddenly resemble Homer Simpson? Well, step forward an interesting and well-developed Kinect title that should get that unwanted flab moving. Nike+ Kinect Fitness for the XBox 360 is something that seems tailor-made not just for the New Year (and all those resolutions to get fit and healthy that we all tend to make, and then ditch by the time February rolls around), but for the whole year round. Certainly, given our generally miserable weather,
A COLLAPSE OF NOTE
HMV vouchers anger many AT THE time of writing, HMV’s recent collapse in Ireland has stung a lot of consumers, angered at the now worthless HMV vouchers they have. As was seen with the GAME chain’s collapse last year, the Irish wing of the international chain has been shut and shuttered, although the British stores have remained open and trading, as the Irish stores were placed into receivership, while the British stores entered administration – both procedures are disastrous for any company to face, yet have very different operations. Of course, the most regrettable collapse of HMV in Ireland is the loss of hundreds of jobs across its 16 stores here (and the knock-on impact on local economies and sub-contractors). However, as extensive media coverage has shown, consumers have felt stung by its collapse, with the decision not to honour any gift vouchers sold in Ireland up to the point the chain closed its stores angering many. This decision was not helped by the announcement that the still trading British HMV stores are honouring vouchers sold up to its administration, there. With the news that restructuring firm Hilco has bought HMV’s debts, thus stabilising the firm – in Britain, at least, thus giving some breathing room to attempt to rescue the chain – HMV’s 90-year history isn’t fully concluded. Unfortunately, for now, it seems likely that HMV Ireland’s legacy has struck a sour note with many ... Although I’m not normally a fan of such home exercise titles, there’s no denying that Nike+ Kinect Fitness is a very well put together title – with ubiquitous Nike branding here and there, of course – and will reward those who want to get fit and will make an effort. As always with such titles, a decent amount of exercise space
SHANE DILLON
sdillon@gazettegroup.com
and the continuing budgetary pinch of the recession, anything to help you exercise at a more than affordable price all year round at home is to be welcomed. Enough wittering – what, exactly, is Nike+ Kinect Fitness about? Well, as the name suggests, it’s all about getting fit, courtesy of a wide variety of programmes devised with Nike. By picking a virtual fitness instructor, an initial fitness assessment then determines your general
BYTES&PIECES THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME
is advised to help get the best results from Nike+ Kinect Fitness.
fitness etc, right now. From that starting point, the title – you couldn’t call it a “game”, – then puts you through your paces over the following weeks, with a wide variety of exercises to put you through your paces. And, believe me, there’s plenty there to face up to, as you’d be surprised how much you can do at home, and how challenging it can be. While we’ve seen plenty of similar titles before – the entertaining Wii Fit on the Nintendo Wii
springs to mind – there’s no doubting that Nike+ Kinect Fitness is a step beyond (no pun intended), as the range of exercises, challenging goals, genuine sense of achievement should be enough to motivate you towards becoming healthier. Obviously enough, for such an all-round fitness title, you’ll need a decent amount of space for some of the more challenging exercises (just as you would at a gym, or exercise spot), and also for the required Kinect sensor
WITHOUT more solid details, I’m not delving too much into this just yet, but given all the smoke signals, wild speculation and pure gossip here and there, it looks very likely indeed that 2013 will see the successors to the PlayStation 3 and XBox 360 released, following on the heels of the recently released Wii U. All of the current-gen consoles (well, really, that just leaves the PS3 and the 360, now) have enjoyed
attachment to properly track exactly what you’re doing. And, of course, the biggest “flaw” with Nike+ Kinect Fitness is you, the user – it’s a great title that’s very polished and pretty comprehensive, but, not unlike learning Latin, it’s either something you want to do, or you don’t. However, as a welldesigned title with a consistently good use of the Kinect sensor, and a genuinely motivating feeling of progress, it’s to be recommended.
the longest lifecycle of any console, to date, and both consoles continue to see remarkable games and franchises being rolled out – 2013 has some outstanding titles on the way for both consoles. However, it’s no secret that both Sony and Microsoft are keen to release their next consoles, and given the evidence to date, 2013 looks set to be a lucky year for gamers (with deep pockets, of course). Watch this space ...
Gazette
22 Gazette 31 January 2013
OUT&ABOUT
Interview
stephen spielberg from p17 In the movie, Day-Lewis utterly inhabits the title role as the iconic leader Abraham Lincoln, which has led to him being tipped for more Oscar glory come February 24. Spielberg was fulsome in his praise of the actor. “I’m so grateful Daniel agreed to play Abraham Lincoln. I never imagined anyone could play Lincoln other than Daniel. I approached him three times over a five-year period, and, eventually, he said yes. “We had to get the research right. Lincoln is the most compelling figure on the American national landscape. He saved the American experiment in democracy, and pretty much saved the constitution. He didn’t do it alone, a lot of people helped him do what he did. “We’re only telling a small part of the gigantic Lincoln story, on the last four months of his life, but it’s enough of an intimate focus to give you a real idea who he was as a human being,” said Spielberg. Although the movie documents a very specific and significant moment in American history, Spielberg said that he felt there was a message in the movie for an international audience. “The film is really about the power and responsibility of personal, intimate leadership. It’s about a leader who was one of the people. There was no firewall between him and the people who elected him, and no firewall between him and the compassion he had for the people of the United States of America, and the tremendous anguish and mourning [he felt] for the war that took more lives than all of the American wars combined. “I think it’s a great story, he’s one of the most amazing characters in global history. Every country has a Lincolnian figure who was inspirational and did great things in its formation or during a crisis, and everyone can relate to Lincoln, based on figures from their own nation.”
Stephen Spielberg at the European premiere
MUSIC
MUSIC REVIEW: sophomore release from welsh power trio
Utterly Formidable and Joyous effort ROB heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com
THERE are some things about music that are indesputable. That Prince will always test your patience as a fan. That you will never completely get Captain Beefheart. That there are some people whose lives you’ll change when you introduce them to Tom Waits. Another indisputable truth is the enduring appeal of the power trio. Jimi Hendrix Experience, Cream, The Jam, Husker Du, Nirvana, Muse, the original PJ Harvey lineup — legends all. Get set to reserve a place on that list for The Joy Formidable, who have just released their second album, Wolf’s Law, and who last weekend demolished The Academy with an astonishing live set. The Welsh trio began to stake their claim for a place on rock’s pedestal with a couple of EPs and their debut release, The Big Roar, which collected some of the stand-out tracks from their initial releases. Their studio incarnation, though, is only a small part of the story — live, The Joy Formidable truly soar with an energy and ferocity few current acts in any genre can muster, and they have thrilled and awed crowds
The Joy Formidable: Matt Thomas, Ritzy Bryan and Rhydian Dafydd
at festivals internationally over the last two years since the release of The Big Roar. You don’t get an opening slot for Foo Fighters without being a little bit special, and TJF are way more than just a little special. Some of that lightnng has been caught in the bottle of Wolf’s Law. From the dramatic, operatic strings that open the record and lead into their explosive lead single,
This Ladder Is Ours, this is a stadium-sized statement of intent. From Cholla onward, there is a progression through the record as TJF seem to be intent to document their growing maturity and confidence as a band. Drawing on what they have learned on stages across the globe and in the studio, the dynamic and drama that fill this record are unparalleled. Recording
in Maine in winter obviously agreed with the band, and the fruits of those sessions have made for something that could well be high on the lists of the albums of 2013. Even the beautiful acoustic Silent Treatment is filled with wisdom and power. When Matt, Ritzy and Rhydian play together, their unity of purpose comes out in the glorious rock noise they create. Wolf’s Law is a pretty
amazing achievement for a second album. The kinds of heights achieved here are usually reserved for bands much further down their career paths. Hopefully, this will lead to an absolutely legendary third record, which will have the added ingredients that the experience of loftier slots on festival bills will bring. They are truly Formidable indeed.
31 January 2013 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 23
GAZETTE
MOTORS road
NOISE Fiesta, a stylish mobile workshop
The Audi A3 has a top speed of 216 km/h and goes from 0-100kmh in 8.6 seconds
AUDI: ENTRY-LEVEL MODEL WITH THE FEEL OF AN EXECUTIVE MODEL
Awe-inspiring A3 is a cut above the rest CORMAC CURTIS
AS a rule, I don’t like to know too much about a vehicle I am testing until I’ve been behind the wheel for a few days. I have even gone so far as to avoid walking behind the car entirely in case I see what size engine is under the hood. So, a few weeks back, while I was waiting for the keys of the Audi A3 that the dealer was trusting me with for a week, I happened to glance at the spec sheet of the model in question. The car was packing a 4-cylinder, 2-litre diesel engine pumping out 150bhp (almost as much pulling power as my first 6-cylinder, 2.5-litre petrol saloon), it was going
to go from 0 to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds, top out at 216km/h and produce a paltry 106g of carbon per km (combined). But that’s not all. On top of all that, this little beauty was going to sip an average of just 4.1 litres of diesel per 100km driven (combined). If you’re anything like me, the first time you sit in this car, the build quality alone will give you pause for thought. Combine that with an exceptional driver’s cockpit, and you begin to feel that you are about to drive something very special indeed. Frankly, I get the distinct feeling that the tens of thousands of euros more spent on each of Audi’s executive models
somehow trickles down to each of the A3s. I was told that the air vents alone contain 42 moving parts, just so the driver can adjust the “shape” of the airflow – to me, that sounds like the kind of R&D reserved for the A8 fleet, but somehow makes it to this incredible entry-level model. Even in the base-level trim, the driver is treated to a clean, uncluttered and incredibly intuitive set of controls. T h e n ow- f a m i l i a r “i-drive” style wheel just rear of the gear stick takes care of much of the adjustments and settings of the sat nav, stereo and phone – there is even an option that gives the surface of the controller a touchsensitive feature that ena-
bles the driver to write letters and numbers in order to prompt and control sat nav, telephone and stereo functions without taking their eyes off the road. I will fess-up that it took me at least a day to figure out how to make the LCD screen disappear back into its housing in the dash, but when I did, it was a delight. I’m not a fan of the new big screens that seem to be in every car, the ones that stick straight up out of the console I find particularly annoying as most drivers only use them occasionally. Going to the trouble of making this feature available in the A3 speaks volumes of the attention to detail that Audi have committed here.
T he test model I enjoyed was in Glacial White Metallic and is just so well-proportioned it almost seems a shame to offer it in a four-door version. The front grille is almost disproportionately large… almost. In reality it, along with the gorgeous, slightly jaunty headlights, gives the front end of this car a perfect look and expression. The body looks strong without resorting to an overly “muscular” look, so it really offers something different and attractive. I’m not sure what I was expecting from the A3, but what I drove was something special, and I would gladly sit in it every morning for many years and never get bored.
THE new Ford Fiesta Van, which has just arrived in Ireland, delivers class-leading fuel efficiency and segment-first technologies for both large and small businesses. All diesel engines in the new van achieve sub-100 g/km CO2 emissions and 3.7 l/100 km (76.4 mpg) or better. “The new Fiesta Van is a stylish mobile workshop for light duty tools and equipment that makes great business sense,” said Eddie Murphy, chairman and managing director of Ford Ireland. “Both local tradesmen and urban delivery fleets will appreciate its sharp, professional looks, while relying on its versatility, dependability and exceptionally low running costs.” Fiesta Van powertrain choice now includes the new 75 PS 1.5-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel, alongside the 95 PS 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel and 82 PS 1.25-litre Duratec petrol units. The van’s package of leading Ford driver assistance and safety features includes a number of important segment-first technologies. In Ireland, the vehicle is available in three series: Fiesta Van, Trend Van and the really stylish Sport Van. Prices start at €14,620 excluding delivery and related costs.
CUTTING OUT THE NONSENSE ABOUT INSURANCE: LOW-COST car insurance company, No Nonsense, has announced the launch of SmartDriver – an innovative technology aimed at cutting out the nonsense in the car insurance market by offering cash back based on individual driver behaviour. This state-of-the-art telematics technology aims to
cut out the nonsense in the car insurance market by rewarding safe drivers for their behaviour on the roads. The news comes as the EU gender directive has banned insurance discounts based on gender and will be seen by many younger women as an ideal way to avoid the significant increase in premiums and instead get cash back of up to 30% with No Nonsense.
Kate Cepeola and Darragh Griffin (both four) and Jackie McMahon, general manager of No Nonsense, pictured at the launch of SmartDriver
24 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 31 January 2013
Gazette
&ABOUT OUT fast TRAVEL NEWS Set your heart on a romantic getaway for two Valentine’s Day: perfect escape for two
Hotels.com have it all for a city break
If you plan on spending this year’s Valentine’s Day enjoying a romantic city break, choosing the right place to stay isn’t as complicated as you may think. Since love is in the air, Hotels. com are offering some great offers on some of their top hotels in some of Europe’s most romantic city destinations. If it’s passion in Paris you’re looking for, the Platine Hotel is situated in the heart of this romantic city. The Art Deco hotel is in easy reach of the Eiffel Tower and plays homage to the life of Marilyn Monroe with pictures adorning every bedroom. Prices start from €252 per room, per night. Love can also be found in Rome and staying at the Eurostar’s International Palace means you’re within easy walking distance of some of Rome’s most popular tourist hotspots. Prices start from €84 per room per night. For more information, visit www.hotels.com.
Make haste north with great offers Heading up north this Valentines? If so, Hastings Hotels have some great offers to help ensure your romantic getaway is one to remember. With Valentine offers available from Thursday, February 14 until Saturday, February 16, why not enjoy a luxurious overnight stay, a romantic dinner for two, a glass of bubbly, as well as a full Irish breakfast (and an exclusive Valentine’s duck) from just £65pps. Choose to stay at the Everglades Hotel in Derry from £65pps, Ballygally Castle in Antrim from £70pps, Europa Hotel in Belfast from £80pps or the Slieve Donard Resort and Spa in Newcastle from £85pps. Culloden Estate and Spa in Belfast is also available to book from £110pps. Luxury extras are available at each hotel including champagne and chocolates in your room on arrival, or why not surprise your other half with a luxury spa treatment at the Culloden or Slieve Donard. See www.hastingshotels.com or call 048 9047 1066.
Loved-up couples everywhere have plenty of choice when it comes to planning a romantic getaway this Valentine’s. W hether you’re tempted to fly abroad for a romantic city break, or fancy making the most of the Emerald Isle, there are plenty of special offers and idyllic escapes to choose from.
Romantic Escapes Whisking your one and only off to west Cork will mean you find the perfect spot to enjoy long romantic walks at The Celtic Ross Hotel in Rosscarbery. From February 15-17, visitors will enjoy two nights’ accommodation with a full Irish breakfast and a romantic dinner in
Druid’s Restaurant. The Valentine’s and Romance package includes some extra treats such as wine, chocolates, a love-heart balloon as well as a late check out. One night stays are available at €179. For more information, visit www.selecthotels. ie For those interested in spreading the love while still keeping it within the budget, the Clarion Hotel in Sligo is offering the perfect escape for two. The hotel is offering one night’s B&B on either February 15 or 16, with the addition of some subtle romantic touches. Offering Valentine
dates a free upgrade to a suite – the package also includes a mini-spa treatment per person, a four-course dinner with a glass of bubbly and chocolates, as well as a complimentary drink. Plus, the check-out time is extended to 2pm. Available at just €99 per person. Details: 071 9119000; www.clarionhotelsligo. com If it’s that something extra you’re looking for, The Twelve Hotel in Bearna leaves no stone unturned with its special Lovebomb package. In keeping with its name, the hotel is offering 12 special Valentine specialities. First, you check into a suite. Next, petals are
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The Twelve Hotel in Bearna is offering 12 special Valentine specialities
strewn across the bed and you enjoy some bubbly, two red-iced muffins from the hotel bakers, a packed picnic for a romantic stroll and a candlelit dinner. Then comes the pampering in-room treatments, Love Potion cocktails, fun framed caricatures of you and your other half, as well as a discount gift voucher for Hartman’s Jewellers (just in case the need to drop to one knee suddenly presents itself!) and a wrapped rose on checkout… And as for the twelfth? “The wonderful 12th itself!”. At €450 per couple, the package is available from February 13-15. Details: 091 597000; www.thetwelvehotel.ie
There is plenty of choice
Loved-up chic While the infamous Irish countryside pulls at most heartstrings, city chic can also spell romance. A getaway to the fourstar Pembroke Hotel, located in the heart of Kilkenny City, promises a two-night escape with chocolates and champagne on arrival. Couples can enjoy dinner in Statham’s Restaurant on the evening of their choice, as well as breakfast each morning. And since it’s just a twominute walk from Kilkenny Castle, the stunning canal walk and the city’s renowned nightlife can ensure you see some of the local sights on the second day. Priced at €149pp. Details: 056 7783500; www.pembrokekilkenny.com Whites of Wexford has the ideal package to help couples unwind
31 January 2013 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 25
Gazette
Travel
fast
TRAVEL NEWS The Celtic Ross Hotel in Rosscarbery in west Cork
Cayo Coco in northern Cuba
Cliff House Hote in Ardmore, west Waterford
in romantic getaways this Valentine’s Day. Picture: Karolina Laser
this Valentine’s. The four-star luxury hotel is located in the heart of Wexford Town and its Valentine’s offer includes an overnight break with dinner and a glass of bubbly on arrival for just €69 per person. Relish the time out with a treatment in the Tranquillity Spa followed by afternoon tea or candle-lit dinner in the Terrace Restaurant. For more information, visit www.selecthotels. ie.
Sultry Spa Break If you really want to spoil your loved one, adding a special spa treatment to the romantic night away will win y o u m a j o r b r ow n i e points. Just minutes from Dublin, Dunboyne Castle Hotel and Spa is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway.
From €112 per person sharing, guests can enjoy an overnight stay with a chocolate and rose-petal turn down, dinner in the hotel’s Ivy Brasserie restaurant with a complimentary glass of bubbly and access to the award-winning Seoid Spa, offering a range of Valentine’s treatments, including couples massages. See www.dunboynecastlehotel.com or call 01 8013500. Nothing else says I love you quite like a fivestar escape and where better than luxury on our own doorstep at The Shelbourne Hotel. Enjoy an Elemis facial for her and an indulgent hot-towel shave for him, plus full use of the hotel’s fitness and thermal suites. To round off your pampering treat, cosy up in the Saddle Room
Restaurant for a gourmet dinner by candlelight before ending the evening with a night cap at the popular Shelbourne Bar. This overnight break is priced from €370 per room per night, and the package is available until February 17, 2013. Details: 01 663 4500; www.theshelbourne.ie
Food Lovers Food is the language of love this Valentine’s Day, according to the Cliff House Hotel, a five-star hotel overlooking the historic village of Ardmore, west Waterford. And what other way to spend a romantic V-day evening then a feast at Martijn Kaiuiter’s award-winning, Michelin-starred cuisine. The House Restaurant showcases the best produce to be found on Irish land and sea and
The luxurious spa at The Shelbourne Hotel
guests can savour the applauded delights of the prestigious chef. To complete the gourmet experience, wake in the morning to a full Irish breakfast before depart-
Whites of Wexford
ing for home. The Valentine’s Gourmet package is priced from €360 per room. Details: 024 87 800; www.thecliffhousehotel.com
Pack your bags and enjoy an exotic Valentine destination Telling your loved one on the evening of Valentine’s Day to pack their bags for a flight the next day can only prove one thing – that your partner is clearly on to a winner. For those looking to really spoil their partner this year, Thomas Cook Far and Away has two exotic Valentine destinations to offer. Whisk your special someone off to the West Coast of Africa and stay in the threestar Hotel Seaview Gardens in gorgeous Gambia, just a short stroll from Kololi beach. A 14-night stay is priced at €1,249 per person sharing, departing on February 15 from Gatwick. Or how about celebrating Valentine’s Day itself on a romantic beach on the sundrenched island of Cayo Coco in northern Cuba? A hideout by buccaneers in the early colonial period, Cayo Coco is part of a chain of beautiful islands called King’s Gardens. Thomas Cook is offering 14 nights on an all-inclusive basis at the three-star-plus Tryp Hotel, with all meals and drinks included from just €989 per person sharing, including transfers from Gatwick, departing 15 February. Connecting flights from Irish airports can be arranged. Call the Thomas Cook Far and Away team in Dublin on (01) 514 0316, log onto www. thomascook.ie or visit your travel agent.
26 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 31 January 2013
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athletics P28
asdfsdaf gaelic games P27 P31
dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community
Gazette
awards P28
FastSport lucan make dream debut:
Michael Darragh MacAuley was on hand to launch Setanta Sports’ coverage of the Allianz National Leagues in Dublin city centre last week
football: ballyboden man admits 2012 league form did not reach full intensity
MacAuley hoping for fresh Dubs’ outlook for new year BALLYBODEN St Enda’s man Michael Darragh MacAuley believes there is a much stronger resolve around the Dublin senior football panel going into 2013 after a tepid reign as All-Ireland senior football champions. Speaking at the launch of Setanta Ireland’s live coverage of the Allianz league last week, he admitted that the sky-blues “didn’t reach the intensity levels required last year in the league and consequently didn’t get results. “In 2011 we reached the league final on the back of our high intensity levels
and this gave us a great platform for our successful championship campaign.” But 2012 was a lower key affair in the league and it permeated into the championship campaign. “I think we didn’t realise it at the time, but lads’ heads just weren’t as clued in as much as the year before, simple as that. “I knew we’d struggle with that early in the year, but thought we’d get our heads together. But in talking to people, all the panel, everyone’s heads weren’t in the right place at the right time. Eve-
rything has to be 100%. “If one player is off, and we had a few players not hitting full whack last year, that’s all it takes. It’s only a matter of inches in winning in All-Ireland, it really is,” he added. But the Boden man says that, with the fresh impetus of Jim Gavin at the helm, the mood is confident. “With Jim in place there is a blank canvas for all the players, consequently new players will want to show the new management team just what they can do and Cork will offer a great test first
day out.” He is speaking of the opening day clash against the Rebel county on February 2 at 7pm in Croke Park. The clash of the Dubs and Cork is not the only action from headquarters and at 5pm Kildare and Donegal throw in for what should be a great curtain raiser between the newly promoted Lilywhites and of course the reigning All-Ireland champions. The third and final televised game of the opening weekend is the all-Ulster clash between Down and Tyrone.
CHESS teams from St Jude’s, Skerries, Lucan and Malahide all took part in the first community games event of the year in Jobstown last Friday night. At U-12 level, Lucan were competing for the very first time and claimed the gold with former national champions taking silver with the former, featuring Muhtarim Ul Haiq, Jordan Maldianu, Andrei Buda, Mustakim Ul Haiq and Brandon Amerai, making it through to the Leinster finals. Malahide took gold at U-16 level with a team featuring David Deneher, Killan Burke, Aaron Cummins, Alessio Roselli, Jacob Flynn, David Kearney. The Leinster finals will take place in Longford on Sunday, April 7.
c o n ta c t s Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@gazettegroup.com
For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6205
Gazette
28 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 31 January 2013
SPORT
DublinGazetteNewspapers 2013 dublin sports awards january nominees
AMID the winter weather and a glut of cancelled fixtures, local stars from around the city braved the elements to produce some truly stunning sporting feats, starting off the New Year in breathtaking fashion. Conor McGregor saw in the year with one of the earliest victories, further announcing himself on the world stage. A number of Dublin’s young stars made strong impacts in the O’Byrne Cup with Eric Lowndes, stepping straight up from minor into the senior ranks, chief among them while Swords man James Cluskey is in the form of his life on the tennis circuit. On the team front, January means basketball’s cup finals with Palmerstown CS shading out a number of other Dublin schools for this month’s nomination. Malahide United claimed All-Ireland glory to add to their 26-county title of last summer while St Joseph’s, Lucan made a significant camogie breakthrough.
H STARof the MONTH
james cluskey
eric Lowndes
conor mcgregor
THE Swords LTC club member had an amazing January, winning an ITF Futures doubles title in Germany before finishing as runner-up at another event in Germany and also in France, making for the perfect warmup for the Davis Cup
THE Naomh Peregrine tyro enjoyed a hugely impressive month as he made a smooth transition from minor level to Jim Gavin’s senior set-up, lining out to great effect in Dublin’s run to the O’Byrne cup final despite his tender years
LUCAN resident Conor McGregor became just the second double weight world champion in the history of mixed martial arts with a first round knock-out against Ivan Buchinger at Cage Warriors fighting championship on New Year’s Eve
st joseph’s college, Lucan
malahide united
palmerstown CS
IN QUICK succession, St Joseph’s College in Lucan landed the school’s first and second A camogie titles with their juniors starting the run with victory over St MacDara’s. Their senior side followed up with a win over Maryfield to match the feat.
MALAHIDE United’s U-16 side added an All-Ireland title to the SFAI crown they won last summer when they defeated St Oliver Plunkett’s from Belfast at the inaugural DB Sports Tour national cup finals in Dundalk’s Oriel Park
A BREATHTAKING display in the middle stages of their All-Ireland U-19B final at the National Basketball Arena saw Palmerstown claim the national honours with Cyril Kwan scooping the most valuable player title into the bargain
TEAMof the MONTH H
Sweeney and Cullen the Raheny star attractions sport@gazettegroup.com
DSDAC’S Joseph Sweeney in the lead Picture: Peter Mooney /flickr.com/photos/peterm7/sets
DSDAC’S Joe Sweeney stormed to another decisive win in last weekend’s AXA 29th annual Raheny 5 road race but the star of the show was undoubtedly North Sligo AC’s Mary Cullen who lives in nearby Santry. Her career has been blighted by injury and illness in the last two years but, in her first serious competitive race in over 15 months, she smashed the women’s course record finishing a remarkable 12th overall in the race in 25:55.
The magnitude of her achievement is underlined by the fact that she is the first Irish female athlete to dip under 26 minutes for five miles on Irish soil. The defending title holder and Olympic marathoner Linda Byrne, another DSD club member, stayed with Cullen in the early stages of the race but eventually had to give way. She finished second in the women’s race in 26:35. The standard at the top of the field is underlined by the fact that 119 athletes finished under 30 minutes. At the head
of affairs Sweeney and his Tallaght AC rival Tom Fitzpatrick had broken away from the rest of the field by the one-mile marker while Kilkenny’s Brian Maher was alone in third spot. In the end Sweeney prevailed in 23:53; Fitzpatrick was second in 24:02 while Maher took third place in 25:00. Simon Ryan was the host club’s top finisher taking fifth place in 25:11 just ahead of Cillian O’Leary while Ian Conroy was eighth. Notable too was the performance of 47-year-old Mick Traynor who finished a remark-
able 17th overall and won the O-45 category in 26:10; his clubmate Damien Martin was second in O-45 in 26:46. Of the other local clubs involved, 17 athletes from Lucan Harriers took on the race. In the men’s field, First home for Lucan was Derek Taylor, in 29:40 ahead of Patrick Holden in 32:13. On the women’s side, Lucan’s first home was Bernie Stapleton in 37:01, she was quickly followed by Lisa Convey in 37:26 and Deirdre Counihan was seconds behind them in 37:50.
31 January 2013 DUN LAOGHAIRE Gazette 29
Gazette
30 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 31 January 2013
SPORT
FastSport
soccer: fai come to kilbogget for grading tournament
Cabinteely relaunch top class website CABINTEELY football club have relaunched their always impressive website, now allowing increased interactive elements for players and fans of the club alike. Now located at cabinteelyfc.ie, the site features one of the best photo galleries in junior football, all the latest news and fixture times as well as allowing for comments, feedback and email news alerts to keep you right up to date.
The Cabinteely Cougars last Sunday in Kilbogget Park where they took part in a joint FAI/Special Olympics grading tournament
Cabo host Special blitz sport@gazettegroup.com
Park celebrate 25 years in style PARK Celtic’s 25th year anniversary gala dinner will take place on June 8 in Cabinteely House. The venue will act as an idyllic backdrop with a luxury marquee to house the festivities. Ouzos, Dalkey will provide a banquet for the occasion while the lively Johnnie Be Goode band will entertain long into the night. The gala dinner takes place during the club’s two week annual mini World Cup tournament which, for the first time, will include all of the club’s age groups (academy up to Under-19s). Tickets are now on sale at €40 each and can be purchased by post/hand from Mark Dowling at 34 Holmwood, Cabinteely 087 6387293 or Robbie Maher at 26 Park Drive, The
Park, Cabinteely 087 2707340.
Tucker follows illustrious path COLAISTE Eoin student Lorcan Tucker is among a group of nine Leinster cricket players who are currently residing in South Africa and taking advantage of their transition year to spend time in schools abroad and playing cricket at a very high standard. The Leinster Union has over the past 10 years assisted young cricketers to find appropriate schooling arrangements at various venues around the country. Tucker lined out for Muir College second 11 last week, following in the footsteps of capped players at senior level such as Andrew Balbirnie and George Dockrell who both have spent time at Muir College.
WITH the number of team coaches occupying the Kilbogget car park from early on, it was clear that the joint FAI/ Special Olympics grading tournament, being hosted on Sunday by Cabinteely Cougars, was going to be a great success. Despite the cold wind sweeping across Kilbogget, it was mostly dry and a quick glance over at the riot of colour and crowds congregating in the all-weather pitch area confirmed that there was certainly something
afoot. There, under the watchful eye of the FAI’s Oisin Jordan and Special Olympics’ Bernie McCormack, the best players from 22 clubs, including Cabinteely, were playing a sequence of games so that the teams of coaches and assessors could grade them for participation in future international competition. Many of the players will go on to represent Ireland in forthcoming international tournaments. As a community club, Cabinteely is keen to
special olympics Local man Gary Burton set for South Korea special Olympics Team Ireland athletes Gary Burton, left, from Sallynoggin, and Stuart Brierton, from Bray, Co Wicklow, are pictured at Dublin Airport ahead of their departure to South Korea where they will compete at the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games from January 29 to February 5. To follow Team Ireland’s progress at these Games visit www.specialolympics. ie/wintergames. Picture: Ray McManus
ensure that football is open to all local children and adults and playing a full part in the FAI’s Football For All Club Programme, working with both Special Olympics Ireland and Enable Ireland to ensure that it’s open to the broadest possible audience. Its Special Needs programme has been operating since 2006 and has 20 players turning out every Saturday. Cougars men and ladies squads compete in regular blitzes and in a Special Needs section in the club’s annual summer Mini World Cup extrava-
ganza, held in June every year. The Pumas programme began in 2011 and caters for children of a wide range of ability from mild to moderate in various disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy. This group now has 12 members, a number which continues to grow and which promises to absorb all the coaching and assistance the club can provide. Cabo’s Cougars and P umas sessions r un between 12pm and 1pm every Saturday on Kilbogget’s all-weather pitch and follow the
regular fun skills, drills, shooting sessions and mini-match approach that all club players do. Players and teams are organised by ability, rather than age, using a process called divisioning. This could mean having a 12-year-old playing on the same side as a 15-year-old or 18-yearold of the same ability. If you’re interested in getting involved in these programmes, whether as a player or as a volunteer coach/helper, contact Cabinteely’s Tommy Flynn (087 271 7475) or Declan Service (087 770 5506).
31 January 2013 DUN LAOGHAIRE gazette 31
Gazette
Mannion’s quartet not enough for Dubs sport@gazettegroup.com
K ILMACUD Crokes Paul Mannion’s four points were unable to turn the tide as Dublin fell to Kildare 1-16 to 0-17 after extra-time last Saturday night in the Bord na Mona O’Byrne Cup final at Parnell Park. The tie was ultimately decided by Tomas
O’Connor’s 1-2 in the second half of extra-time as the Lilywhites came back from three points in arrears. Kildare struck for the decisive goal in the first minute of the second half of extra-time when a scramble in the square concluded with the powerful Clane man firing past Shane Supple from
close range. The Dubs had put themselves in a winning position by half-time in extra-time when points from Paul Hudson (two, one free) and Crokes’ Pat Burke had carved out a three-point advantage for the home side. Kildare had also closed out the concluding moments of normal
time on the up when points from John Doyle (free) and Padraig O’Neill forced extra-time. In normal time Dublin threatened early on but squandered several simple point-scoring opportunites. Dublin made most of the early running but Kildare fought back to tie the match up in the second half.
football: kilmacud undone by dalkey rivals
Club Noticeboard cuala CONGRATULATIONS to our minor hurl-
and repairs on the radar.
ers who won the league division one
The academy is starting off a small
title on Sunday morning with a close
recycling initiative. If you have foot-
fought but thoroughly deserved vic-
ball boots, hurleys, helmets or Cuala
tory over Kilmacud Crokes. That this
gear that is too small we’ll take it and
final should have been a reflection of
pass it on to someone who needs it.
the senior championship from 2012
If you see something you need that
suggests the rivalry will be well con-
we have in our recycling bag you are
tested for many years to come.
welcome to take it.
Our thoughts are with the family and
Should you wish to make a €2 dona-
very many friends of Kevin Heffernan.
tion that, also, will be very welcome.
Few have made such an impact on our
The Cuala recycling centre – other-
games and arguably none within the
wise known as Ionad Athchursala
capital. Ar dheis de go raibh a anam.
Cuala – will be at IADT from 10.15–
Our Cuala activation fitness classes
10.45am every Saturday.
take place this Wednesday and Friday.
The Cuala awards night is on Satur-
There was a great turn out last week
day, February 16 and details of tick-
and still room for a few late comers
ets and all that stuff will be filtering
who need to get in (better) shape for
through teams and on the website
2013.
and social media over the coming
Good luck to all the older juvenile teams who are back in football action
days. With all that happened last year it promises to be a great night.
this coming weekend. Well prepared
The 1999 girls had a great night last
and ready to represent the club to
week in the club. They were presented
the very best of their ability.
with their camogie league and cham-
Tickets for the Dublin spring series are available from the club, by email
pionship medals and enjoyed pizzas, coke and other fizzy stuff. They are now working hard with
only through our new address of matchtickets@cualagaa.ie.
Feile 2013 in mind, both on and off the
The final work on the hall and club
pitch. Training has recommenced and
buildings, for now at least, will be
the fundraising kicks off this week-
completed over the next 10 days.
end. Watch out for them at the Cuala
Access to certain areas at certain times will be restricted. Kilmacud Crokes and Cuala observe a minute’s silence in honour of Kevin Heffernan prior to their league final
Top class Cuala win local bragging rights Mfl division one final Cuala 0-10 Kilmacud Crokes 0-7 sport@gazettegroup.com
CUALA claimed the minor hurling division one league last Sunday when they faced off against Kilmacud Crokes in Shankill, coping better with the strong wind to take the victory by three points, 0-10 to 0-7, claiming the local bragging rights. K ilmacud shot in to the lead early on a n d C u a l a s h owe d great spirit to get back involved despite the heavy ground with Jack
Phelan and Colm Cronin putting the Dalkey men back on terms after Mark O’Loughlin and Sean Keating initially gave Crokes the edge. Cronin, who has recently been training with the Dublin senior panel, was in particularly good form for Cuala and his movement and distribution separated him from the rest of the field and a further point from him, another from Sean Treacy and one more from Cillian Sheanon gave the Dalkey side a one point lead at the interval, 0-6 to 0-5.
It was four quick fire points from Dalkey men that really set them apart from the opposition in the second half, and Kilmacud were always chasing the game when the barrage finished with Treacy taking another two points from frees, Sheanon scoring from distance and Andrew Murphy banking the other. Crokes battled hard and although they didn’t come away with the win, they showed the quality of champions in their heart, resolve and determina-
tion which have made their juvenile hurling section one of the best in the country. O’Loughlin grabbed another two points to leave his side a goal away from parity, but some spectacular last gasp defending, with Kevin Killion and Ross Tierney throwing their bodies on the line for the result, lead the Dalkey side to the league championship in the end. It was obvious what the title meant to the side as they celebrated with great passion on the final whistle.
Please keep up to date with the latest by visiting www.cualagaa.ie or
academy; give them a cheery hello and support their fundraising initiatives. Speaking of fundraising, our intrep-
keeping in touch through Twitter and Facebook. We are also looking for a volunteer to take on a role of building mainte-
id dance troupe are fiddling with their foxtrots, souping up their salsas and jumping to the jive. Strictly Come Dancing – Coming to
nance officer, reporting to an Coiste and keeping any small improvements
Cuala in March… keep dancing!
foxrock cabinteely KILBOGGET was the place to be last
treasurer’s position.
Saturday morning. A new juve-
Diarmuid Byrne has retired from
nile pitch is being prepared for this
his position as registrar and was
coming season and members were
presented on the night with an award
required to come along with their
in recognition of the fact that he has
forks to improve the irrigation.
been on the executive since the incep-
We had our new expert grounds
tion of the club back in 2005. Former
keeper advisor Dave there to over-
treasurer. Trish Bollard takes over as
see the work. There was some great
registrar.
styles in wellie boots, Linda Gallagher
Last Sunday, the annual medal pres-
won the prize for best-looking wellie
entation ceremony took place. Many
boots. Thanks to all for such a strong
thanks to Johnstown Girls’ school for
turn out.
offering its premises for the day.
Last Wednesday, the club AGM took
There was a record number of
place. Paul Ryan was voted in as the
medals to be presented at the end of
new chairman of the club. Paul has
a great year, which saw the club win
two daughters playing with the club:
the Dublin senior championship and
Grainne is with the U-16s while inter-
Feile.
county player, Niamh, plays with the
Many thanks to senior players
minors. Also new to the committee
Sinead and Ciara Murphy for assist-
is Colm Whooley who took over the
ing with the presentations.
GazetteSPORT all of your dun laoghaire sports coverage from page 27-31
final face-off: Cuala and Kilmacud contest tightly fought minor division one hurling league final at Shankill P31
january 31, 2013
sports stars nominees: January’s shining lights up for monthly awards P28
Former Blackrock College student Gavin Thornbury is set to make his Ireland U-20 6 Nations debut Picture: Barry Cregg/Sportsfile
Thornbury set for debut Opportunity knocks for the next generation as just three of last year’s Ireland’s U-20s return for this term’s 6 Nations championship bid peter carroll
sport@gazettegroup.com
FORMER Blackrock College student Gavin Thornbury has been named in the 23-man squad by Ireland coach Mike Ruddock ahead of Friday RBS Under-20 6 Nations Championship opener away to Wales. Capped at international level for the U-19s and for the Leinster U-20s, the towering second row will be looking to impress in the new look Irish U-20 squad as one of the many newcomers to this level of competition. Only three players that have previously lined out for the boys in green at that level - scrum half Luke McGrath, out-half Stuart
Olding and back rower Josh van der Flier, a former Wesley College student. Speaking ahead of the clash, Ruddock was confident of the ability of the group for the elevated level of competition. “They’re really looking forward to it, they’re a very competitive group,” said the former Welsh senior coach. “It will be a very difficult challenge against Wales, I think they have 10 players left over from last year. They have a good fly half in Rhys Patchell who is already playing for the Cardiff Blues in the professional game. “We’ll have our work cut out for us in Colwyn Bay; it won’t be a holiday for us for once over there like it usually is and we’re expect-
ing a very tough game. But, my panel have prepared well, we’ve had some good warm up matches and we’re very focused on trying to get a result.” Ruddock also claimed he will be looking to McGrath, Olding and van der Flier to lead the squad with their experience. “Luke [McGrath] captained us against UCD last Wednesday, he’ll definitely provide some good leadership from the number nine position where it’s fundamentally important that we get some good communication. “Josh is returning from injury so we’ll see how his form is. Obviously he’s had a few problems with his hips, but he’s a quality player and I’m sure we’ll get to see him in
good form at some stage during the competition. “Stuart Olding is a good player too who can play in a few positions, he passes accurately and he has a good left foot as well. We’ll try to get the best out of those guys and hopefully the rest will follow,” said Ruddock. Now with a lot of younger players making their way to the provincial and national senior ranks a lot quicker, Ruddock commended the work of the academies for having their players in such remarkable shape. “These guys are working ever so hard. They’re strong, they’re very well conditioned and it’s a testament to their academies and the hard work that they are doing.”