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July 6 - 12, 2017

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Councillors vote down social housing motion PBP’s push for Shankill build is rejected in favour of a ‘social mix’

 EMMA NOLAN COUNCILLORS have voted down a motion in support of building social and affordable housing on council-owned land at Woodbrook-Shanganagh in Shankill.

The motion put forward

by Cllr Hugh Lewis (PBP) was voted down by 40 votes to 7, with the majority of councillors voting against the motion in support of a Labour Party one that allowed a portion of private

development on the site.

Many councillors agreed that housing developments should consist of a mix of private, social and affordable housing, creating a “social mix”, and they therefore voted against the PBP motion.

Speaking after the result of the vote, Cllr Lewis said: “Just how traumatic and deep does the housing crisis need to become before we support those in need of social and affordable housing?”

Full Story on Page 7

2 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 July 2017

HOUSING | SENATOR CRITICISES SLOW DLR RESPONSE TO CRISIS

Council defends lack of rapid-build homes  EMMA NOLAN

NO NEW rapid-build houses for homeless families have been built in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown despite government targets.

Under the Rebuilding Ireland action plan for housing and homelessness set out by the Government last year, a total of 1,500 rapid-build units were to be delivered by 2018 – some 200 by the end of 2016, 800 in 2017 and the remainder in 2018.

The objective of the plan was to “significantly increase and expedite the delivery of social housing units, boost private housing construction, improve the rental

A modular housing unit

market and deliver on the commitment to see housing supply, in overall terms, increase to some 25,000 new homes every year by 2020”.

However, none have been built in the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdow n

constituency.

A tender plan has been completed by the council for a rapid-build s c h e m e a t G e o r g e ’s Place in Dun Laoghaire which will deliver 12 new houses in approximately 12 month’s time.

Commenting on the fact that not one rapid-build home unit has been built by the council, Dun Laoghaire Senator Victor Boyhan (Ind), a member of the Oireachtas Committee on Housing, said: “The slow pace of delivering emergency social housing and the failure to deliver key social housing targets in line with the Government’s housing policy, Rebuilding Ireland, needs to be addressed by Minister [for Housing] Eoghan Murphy and his department officials.

“No modular/rapid[build] social housing has been completed by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,

d e s p i t e g ove r n m e n t targets. The Minister needs to explain the why these targets have been missed?

“To be fair, Dublin City Council built 22 housing units in Poppintree Ballymun. The feedback from the tenants who took possession of these homes by all accounts has been very positive.”

A spokesperson for Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said that as well as the George’s Place plans, there is also another rapid delivery scheme which is “due to be completed and handed over shortly which will deliver 28 much needed homes in 2017”.

FASTNews

Dublin home prices shoot up €5k a month – report DUBLIN house prices are rising by €5k a month – with asking prices for newly listed properties in the capital soaring €32K in the past six months.

According to the latest property report from MyHome.ie and Davy, the asking price for newlylisted properties in Dublin rose by 2.8% and are up 10.3%, year on year.

The mix-adjusted asking price for new sales is now €360,000 – an increase of €32,000.

The median asking price for a 3-bed semi in Dublin now stands at €295k, while the median price of a 4-bed semi increased by 3.5% in Q2 to €440k. The price of a detached 4-bed house has risen to €650k – the first time it has reached this level since 2010.

Garda thanks as missing boy is found safe and well GARDAI have confirmed that missing boy Richard Roche has been found safe and well. Gardai in Dun Laoghaire had issued a public appeal seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of the five-year old earlier this week.

Richard was last seen playing on the swings in The People’s Park in Dun Laoghaire at around 3pm on the day, and an urgent public appeal was launched to locate his whereabouts.

In a statement, a Garda spokeswoman said: “Gardai wish to advise that Richard Roche has been located safe and well. We wish to thank all members of the public and media for their assistance.”

Des Kelly Interiors winner collects her €500 voucher

Council wins a top architecture title

DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s Architects Department has scooped a prestigious award for Best Sustainable Project at the recent 2017 Irish Architecture Awards held at the Mansion House in the city centre.

The department’s work on Rochestown House, Phase 2, Sallynoggin saw the conversion and remodelling of an existing two-storey building, mainly in bedsits, to provide for 34 one-bed units suitable for the elderly, along with a range of communal facilities including areas for socialising. In addition, the project utilises the highest energy standards for contemporary norms, earning praise from the judges.

WE WERE floored by the terrific reader response to our €500 Des Kelly Interiors voucher competition.

The voucher winner Phil Torsney, is pictured collecting her prize from Des Kelly’s Long Mile Road store manager, Jonathan Donovan.

Congratulations on winning, Phil – and keep entering our great giveaways, folks!

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

6 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 3

PEOPLE: GOATSTOWN MAN TO BRAVE THE HIGH SEAS USING TRADITIONAL NAVIGATION TOOLS

Gregor’s hoping to make waves with his round-the-world race  SYLVIA POWNALL DUBLIN sailor Gregor McGuckin plans to turn back the hands of time next year to compete in a round-the-world race using only traditional navigation skills.

The 30-year-old from Goatstown will spend nine months at sea on the Biscay 36 (right) taking direction from the sun, moon and stars and armed with just paper charts, a compass, sextant and a radio.

Gregor nabbed the last spot in the 2018 Golden Globe Race and is the first ever Irish contender aiming to retrace the record-setting trip of Sr Robin Knox-Johnston in 1968.

More people have been in space than have successfully completed the feat which Gregor has dubbed a “voyage for mad men”.

He told The Gazette: “I’ve always liked the idea of adventure but this might be taking it to the extreme. I’m an ocean yacht master, so as part of my training I’ve used

traditional navigation skills – but never without GPS. “I will have a GPS system on the boat but in a sealed box, and if the seal is broken then I am out of the race.”

The challenge will set off from Plymouth on June 30 next, covering 30,000 miles via Cape Horn, and sailors will keep in touch with family and the outside world using high-frequency radios.

Gregor said: “The biggest challenge will be to keep myself mentally fit. I will be nine months at sea on my own. I enjoy my own company, but I like to socialise as well.

“My girlfriend is very supportive – it’s a big thing to ask, but she knows it’s a dream of mine.”

Gregor is looking for sponsorship to get him to the start line in his bid to become the first Irish person to sail solo non-stop around the world.

For details, see www.gregormcguckin.com, or visit his Facebook page.

Goatstown man Gregor McGuckin and the Biscay 36 – the two-mast 11m ketch he hopes to sail around the world in a race next year using only traditional navigational tools

4 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 July 2017

COURTS | MAN WARNED OVER FAILING TO ENGAGE WITH PROBATION SERVICE

‘High risk’ sex offender is given one last chance A JUDGE has agreed to give one last chance to a convicted sex offender who poses a risk to public safety.

Munir Ghariani (26), formerly of Granitefield, Dun Laoghaire, received a suspended jail term last May after he admitted attacking a woman on a street “for the thrill”.

At the time, Judge Melanie Greally warned Ghariani that she would have “no hesitation” in reactivating the three-year sentence if he broke any of the conditions for his release.

The Probation Service brought the case back before Judge Greally because of his failure to meet with probation officers.

His probation officer, Michelle Richardson, said she had not seen him in person since his sentencing. She said that a man posing such a risk to public safety as Ghariani needs to present himself regularly to the Probation Service.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard Ghariani is also charged with breaches of the Sex Offenders Act because

of alleged failures to notify authorities of his address.

Michael Bowman SC, defending, said that his client had a background of difficulties but had been taking his anti-psychotic medication.

Judge Greally agreed to put the matter back for two weeks. She said if Ghariani did not turn up for two weekly meetings in that time, he would be jailed.

Ghariani had pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbery of the woman, a Chinese national, on Granville Road, Cabinteely on March 21, 2016.

Phone The victim was on her way home from a lecture in UCD when she noticed Ghariani following close behind her. He repeatedly asked to use her phone as he walked behind her.

The woman refused and he asked why. Ghariani then pushed her to the ground and tried to grab the phone.

During the struggle he bit her finger in an attempt to get her to release the phone.

The woman screamed for help as Ghariani attempted to flee, but a passer-by tackled and held him until gardai arrived.

Ghariani has 34 previous convictions, including one for sexual assault after he groped a woman from behind

as she was taking money out of an ATM. He was registered as a sex offender for that offence.

His other convictions include indecency, burglary and theft. The court heard he was on bail for a similar offence at the time of this robbery.

The court previously heard that Ghariani became an involuntary patient at St John of God’s Hospital on April 3 of this year.

Ms Richardson previously told the court she and her colleagues considered him “high-risk” and said it was essential he continue to take his anti-psychotic medications.

She said Ghariani had been “non-compliant” with his medication in the past, and said: “We feel we have to adopt a high-risk approach,” adding that the probation service would continue to meet with him for two years.

She said Ghariani had recently become homeless, and so she had liaised with local authorities who had agreed to provide him with accommodation.

Judge Greally imposed a four-year sentence and, taking into account the time Ghariani has spent in custody on this matter, backdated the sentence to May 19, 2016.

She suspended the balance of the sentence.

She referred to the “disturbing nature” of the robbery, and said she was “mindful of the high risk he presents to the community”.

Margaret offers 500 ways to help support irish emigrants in London TIRELESS community figure Margaret Brown (left) – also known as Dun Laoghaire Rotary Club’s Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Person of the Year – was as good as her word when she presented part of

her Rotary award to the London Irish Day Centre recently.

Margaret, a passionate advocate for The Forgotten Irish in London, which works with elderly Irish emigrants,

presented a cheque for €500 to the Irish ambassador to London, His Excellency Dan Mulhall, and Mary Allen, Life Member of the Irish Centre, London in a special ceremony last week.

Council issues swimming ban over E. Coli A SWIMMING ban has been issued by the council for Blackrock due to high levels of E. Coli in the water.

Following receipt of the results from the samples taken on June 27, the council took the precautionary steps of placing a temporary prohibition notice, advising against swimming.

The results showed a high level of Enterococci and E. Coli.

The cause of these high levels are not known and an investigation is ongoing.

The ban follows regular water quality tests conducted by the council which discovered the high levels of contamination at Killiney Beach, Blackrock and Seapoint bathing areas.

A ban on bathing areas at Seapoint and Killiney was in place but was lifted on Wednesday.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Following, the results which have come back, the prohibition notices are in the process of being taken down at Killiney and Seapoint, however, the temporary prohibition notice will remain at Blackrock.”

Cllr Cormac Devlin (FF) said: “Daily and regular swimming is common along our coast and I have asked the officials of the council to try investigate the root cause of this re-occurring problem so it can be dealt with once and for all. The last prohibition notice was issued in January of this year.”

Senator Victor Boyhan (Ind) said he had asked the council to work closely with Irish Water to determine the source of the problem.

The council is advising pet owners that the water quality at present at these locations can be equally harmful to animals and they are advised to keep their pets out of the water.

6 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 5

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Out and About

A feast of fashion for a good cause A

FTER months of preparation and hard work by the transition year girls of St Joseph of Cluny, they held their annual Cluny Fashion Show in aid of Pieta House. This year they showcased some amazing Junk Kouture dresses modelled by the students who created them. Mr Ireland, Darren King, and Ruth Barry from IADT Dun Laoghaire presented prizes to students for Best Design, Best Performance and Best Make-up. One lucky junior audience member Sara O’Flaherty was also presented with a certificate for Best Dressed guest by Mr Ireland.

6 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 7

Out and About Councillors vote

MEETING | PBP MOTION REJECTED 40 TO 7

down plans for social housing  EMMA NOLAN COUNCILLORS have voted at this week’s council meeting to build private housing on councilowned land.

At the meeting of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdow n County Council, a motion put forward by Cllr Hugh Lewis (PBP) in support of building social and affordable housing on council-owned land at Woodbrook-Shanganagh in Shankill was voted down by 40 votes to 7.

The motion read: “It shall be a priority of this Local Area Plan to substantially increase social and affordable housing across the area. To this end, the publicly-owned Shanganagh Castle lands shall be developed by the council for social and affordable housing.”

The majority of coun-

Hats off to a great year IT was a great year for Dun Laoghaire Musical and Dramatic Society with two major successes in choral competitions.

The choir won a competition at the North Wales International Choral Festival in Llandudno, while in May they won the Frank Cullinane Trophy for the best musical society choir in Ireland.

The group has also introduced a monthly singing session in Fitzgerald’s of Sandycove on the third Thursday of every month.

For next season they plan to resume their annual performance of a musical in the Pavilion Theatre and the committee are currently considering the options.

The society has had an active inflow of new members and we will be open to more members in September.

cillors voted against the motion and in support of a Labour party one that allowed a portion of private development on the site.

Speaking af ter the result of the vote, Cllr Lewis said: “Just how traumatic and deep does the housing crisis need to become before we support those in need of social and affordable housing?

“Our motion was a perfect opportunity to proceed ambitiously with a plan to build 600 new council homes.

“Instead of this, the council will now seek a public-private partnership and sell off a large portion of public lands to private developers in the disingenuous name of social integration.”

Speaking against the motion, many councillors

agreed that housing developments should consist of a mix of private, social and affordable housing, creating a “social mix”, and they therefore voted against the PBP motion.

The council-owned lands at Shanganagh Castle and the private lands in Shankill are both zoned for future housing and will be served by a new Dart station, located between the current stations of Shankill and Bray.

It boasts the secondlargest zoned land area for housing in Dun Laoghaire outside of Cherrywood.

Cllr Lewis added: “Is it a wonder the housing crisis is causing families such misery and havoc here in Dun Laoghaire when councillors refuse to build fully social and affordable homes on their own lands zoned for housing?”

Man jailed for threat to staff at solicitor’s office A MAN who made threats to a member of staff at a solicitor’s office has been jailed for two and a half years.

Joseph McKeon (41), of Rockford Park, Blackrock pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to making a threat a threat to kill or cause serious harm and damaging a door at Partners at Law Solicitors, Adelaide Street, Dun Laoghaire on December 12, 2015.

Gda Bell told Lorcan Staines BL, prosecuting, that McKeon attended at the offices in December 2015 with a cheque for refund for bail money which was out of date. It was suggested to him that he go to the Court Service to have it re-issued and he became angry.

He kicked a door, breaking the security lock, and threatened a female member of staff that he would break her jaw and blow off her head.

Gardai were alerted and the threats were confirmed by a number of staff who also reported McKeon had been saying “crazy stuff”.

The following January, the same

member of staff was returning to work after lunch and encountered McKeon in the street. She kept walking and did not make eye contact. McKeon began shouting at her and she went into a pharmacy to get away from him.

McKeon continued shouting about “his money” and told her that if she did not withdraw her statement about the earlier incident, she “would know whatfor”.

In February 2016, McKeon attended again at the firm’s offices shouting about money belonging to him. The woman he had threatened previously attempted to calm him while other staff pressed a panic button. He has been in custody since his arrest.

Judge Karen O’Connor imposed a three-and-a-half year sentence and suspended the final year on strict conditions. She ordered he be given credit for time he has already spent in custody.

Judge O’Connor also ordered that he stay away from the injured party and the offices of the firm.

8 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 July 2017

6 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 9

10 GAZETTE 6 July 2017

Out and About

Marguerite Savage with her daughters Chloe and Amy Savage

Angi Crispe with Nigel Duffy and Julie Farrar. Pictures: Robbie Reynolds

Food blogger and author Indy Power

Sharing the laughs – Jenny

Jeeny Maltese and Tom Coleman

Sarah Clarke and Siobhan Tiernan

Fans Will’s F

UNNYMAN Will Ferrell’s latest comedy, The House, drew plenty of fans to its premier at Cineworld recently, where they lapped up the laughs as lady luck did any-

John Healy, chef Mark McCarthy and food stylist Jette Virdi

The recipe for a great summer

F

OOD blogger and author Indy Power had plenty of culinary tips to help inspire people in their kitchens at the Musgrave MarketPlace “Summer Food Stories” event in Ballymun. Expert food stylist Jette Virdi shared top tricks for food styling and the benefits it brings to businesses while Irish Chef Mark McCarthy gave guests a taste of notable food trends.

Raymond Keogh and Simon Mur

rphy

6 July 2017 GAZETTE 11

Deborah Leonard and Marie Joseph

Dixon, Romy Carroll and Paula Grehan at the film’s preview screening. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

go Ferrell for latest comedy

thing but smile on the comic in his new film.

Also starring Amy Poehler, The House tells of a couple who lose their daughter’s college fund, so they come up with the idea of starting an illegal

casino in their basement. Their gamble doesn’t quite go to plan, however, with

Holly White and Leanne Woodfull

Catherine Cummins and Rory Dignam. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

things things soon spinning out of control even faster than a roulette wheel ...

An aromatic way to mark a launch

Louise McDermott, Karla Stein and Nas Ghaedi

Louise Ahern and Kelly Power

F Eva Griffin and Zoe Yohn

RAGRANCE lovers were out in force at The Morrison Hotel recently for the launch of Aura Mugler. Described as a woody, aromatic fragrance for women, the fragrance features rhubarb leaf, tiger liana, orange blossom, bour-

Marrita Coyne and PJ Gibbons

bon vanilla and wolfwood notes, with greenery at the launch emphasising the fresh, natural tones of the new scent. As Mugler rarely launches a new scent, the launch was well attended by followers of fashion and fragrances alike.

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12 GAZETTE 6 July 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS

ESB supports charities with €322,226 aid

ESB has donated €43,000 to three worthy organisations, Blossom Ireland, The Salvation Army and The Iveagh Trust, marking the Energy for Generations Fund spring funding round. The Fund has awarded more than €11 million and supported over 700 Irish charities since 2005.

So far in 2017, the ESB Energy for Generations Fund has awarded €322,226 to 38 charities working in the areas of

suicide, homelessness and educational access and support.

ESB’s Energy for Generations Fund is open to organisations within the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. For more information visit www.esb.ie Pictured are Stephen Potter, Salvation Army; Auveen Bell, Blossom Ireland; Pat Fenlon, finance director ESB and Paul Harrisson,The Iveagh Trust. Photo Chris Bellew /Fennell Photography

How can you prevent social media from damaging your career prospects

Social media mistakes that damage careers PROMO PADS | SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING POSITIONS

Digital menu builder to create jobs at new office PROMO Pads, a company that produces digital menus for businesses, has announced its plans to hire 60 Leinster-based employees over the next three years.

Promo Pads are actively recruiting to fill a number of software development vacancies in their offices in Newbridge.

These will be focused on technology development, primarily software and electronic engineering with additional roles in sales, marketing and customer support.

Diarmaid Murphy, CEO of Promo Pads commented: “I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Promo Pads’ launch than with a

commitment to growth. I look forward to welcoming new team members and I am so excited for the successes that are yet to come!”

He added: “We believe that our staff do their best work when they have a healthy work/life balance. By locating in Kildare we save employees living outside Dublin up to 4 hours commuting and we are only 30 minutes or less for employees travelling from the Dublin area on public transport or against the majority of traffic.

“K ildare offers us access to the highest calibre people living in every direction.”

We’re a nation of forgetful homemakers, study shows AROUND 24% of Dubliners have admitted to forgetting to turn off the immersion regularly.

The study of 1,010 Irish adults examines the attitude towards, and use of, smart home technology.

The results show we’re a nation of forgetful homemakers. Almost a third (31%) of respondents admit to accidentally leaving the lights on when leaving home, while almost half (48%) boil the kettle two or three times, after getting distracted after the first boil.

The study shows we’re a tech-savvy nation -- with 78% of Irish people understanding the term ‘Smart Home’.

However, while younger generations are usually credited with being the most technologically-advanced, 45 to 55-year-olds (83%) are more comfortable with the smart home concept than their 18 to 24-year-old counterparts (67%).

Overall, two thirds of those surveyed believe that a smart home is a more efficient home, while 58% believe smart technology would make the home a better place to live.

The Hive brand, like Bord Gais Energy, is part of global energy and services company Centrica, and offers products and services that make connecting homes easy.

For instance, Hive Active Heating allows heating and hot water to be managed from any location using a smartphone, tablet or laptop.

Hive Active Lights can be controlled from an app, and the Hive Active Plug gives peace of mind that devices have been switched off.

Currently available to purchase in Ireland through Bord Gais Energy, Hive products and subscriptionbased smart home service plans will soon be available direct through hivehome.com.

For product and pricing information, visit hivehome.com.

Over 90% of adults in Ireland have at least one social media account. However many people are not aware of how their social media personality can affect their careers.

Even if your account is set to the highest privacy settings, there is still the chance of a friend of a friend seeing your posts or even someone in your network taking a screen shot of something you thought was private.

How can you prevent social media from damaging your career prospects? Here is a list of 5 mistakes to avoid.

Complaining about your company and/or boss. Everyone has bad days and sometimes it helps to vent about what’s bothering you.

Having said that, avoid hitting that “post” button and go for a coffee with a trusted friend instead.

Using text-speak.

It may be quicker to type out “Had gr8 time 2nite”. However, considering that 66% of employers look unfavourably on poor spelling and grammar, it’s probably best to spell everything out.

Posting photos with alcohol. Yes, even if you’re nearly 30 and it’s a photo of you sophisticatedly drinking a 2004 California Cabernet, Are sucDo you youdressed haveforyour cess? If you’re interested social media personalin temping or want to ity uptotosomeone scratch?about talk For more information, conyour career, contact tact R e cRecruitmentPlus ruitmentPlus at 01 2788 610, or also see www.recruitmentplus.ie. www.recruitmentplus.ie.

this is one to avoid.

Such photos can be taken out of context.

Forgetting about “zombie content”. You might be social media savvy now, but what about 10 years ago when all this technology was new?

Check search engines using a phrase like “your name facebook” or “your name myspace” and see what forgotten content is out there.

5. Posting at the wrong time. Are you guilty of blogging or facebooking during work hours?

Because most online content is time stamped, it won’t take long for your boss or a co-worker to figure out you’re wasting company time.

6 July 2017 GAZETTE 13

TRAVEL P21

CINEMA P24

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

BRAN IS A CLEVER COLLIE READY TO STAY FAITHFULLY AT YOUR SIDE OUR Dog of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* is Bran, a 9-year-old Collie.

He is a real foodie who adores his grub, so getting to know him shouldn’t take long if you have a tasty treat to hand! Although Bran does seek affection and attention, he prefers a hands-off approach and is happiest just snuggling at your side rather than being petted and fussed.

Bran is looking for an adult-only home, preferably one that is familiar with Collies and their kooky ways.

He is adorably handsome and a firm favourite with the staff in Dogs Trust, so if you’re looking for an older dog to stick to your side like glue, Bran could be the one for you.

If you can be Bran’s #SpecialSomeone*, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website, www. dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.



GAZETTE

FOOD P20

REVIEW: 90s POP-ROCK LEGENDS DON’T DISAPPOINT AT KILMAINHAM

Green party  JAMES HENDICOTT

Billie Joe knows how to play the Dublin crowd.

Pictures: Instagram/ BillieJoeArmstrong

THIRTY ONE years into a career that’s taken Green Day from gritty pop-punk scenesters to a far more accessible brand of poprock, California’s finest still play Kilmainham with the energy of an act auditioning for their first big break.

An indication of the sands of change came earlier in the day, however, as frontman Billie Joe Armstrong spent the morning searching for

the quayside venue where the three-piece first played Dublin way back in 1991, only to find it’s now a Starbucks (inset).

While time has certainly changed Green Day, too, all evidence is it hasn’t dulled them one iota.

Armstrong’s brutally energetic, interactive fronting of the band is the kind of cheese-fest that can fall the wrong side of cringe – particularly his habit of espousing his band’s ethos on stage as a list of mundane inclusivity catchphrases – yet he’s utterly absorbing.

Continued on Page 17

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14 GAZETTE 6 July 2017

DUBLINLIFE

CALLING ALL ASPIRING SONGWRITERS! BIC have launched an exciting campaign, Write and Shine, to find a young unknown songwriter aged 15-24 from across the UK and Ireland and give them a foot in the door in the music industry.

The winner will get their song professionally produced and recorded in a studio, performed in front of thousands on the main stage of The Big Feastival alongside the likes of Olly Murs and Louisa Johnson, to name just two artists as well as being released on a major YouTube channel.

All entries need to be emailed to writeandshine@lucre.co.uk by July 16 and include the entrants name, age, telephone number and original lyrics typed into the body of an email.

DESPERADOS TO REMIX ALL THE RULES PLANNING on heading to Longitude this month? Make sure you check out the Desperados Inner Tequila Studio. This custom designed industrial space at the festival will see music, art, fashion and Desperados collide!

A host of local club night heroes have been hand-

DIARY picked to take to the decks across the weekend, including Cait Fahey from DIP (Friday), Tara Stewart from 2FM (Saturday) and Louis Scully from Telephones (Sunday). Festival-goers control the DJ set list through an industrial pulley note system above the dance floor.

Visit Desperados InnerTequila Studios at Longitude, July 14-16.

es and venues within the RDS, this unique indoor festival offers a tonne of music, art installations and performances across six stages.

The iconic TLC will play their first ever Irish show at this year’s Metropolis Festival. Pioneering DJ, producer and legend of underground dance music, Richie Hawtin is also headlining alongside one of electronic music’s all time greatest acts, Leftfield.

Tickets on sale from Ticketmaster.

TLC TO HEADLINE RDS FESTIVAL METROPOLIS is back in the RDS again this October with an amazing line up!

Set in the industrial array of warehous-

CALLING ALL JUNIOR DETECTIVES GPO Witness History has misplaced some key objects of historic significance. It’s with the greatest urgency that these must be located and we need your expertise.

The search begins on July 9 and will take place weekly on Sundays throughout July and August. If you are up to the task, register your participation by contacting events@gpowitnesshistory.ie.

This fun activity is available for children aged 5 to 12, children must be accompanied by their willing parents or guardian.

Available every Sunday in July and August at 10:30am and 3:00pm. The rates for this activity are as follows: €12 per adult; €6 per child; €26 for a family of four. Spaces are limited and subject to availability.

SAY CHEESE FOR THE SMILE OF THE YEAR

Junior Detective Rian O’Donnell on the hunt for objects of historic significance. Picture: Paul Sherwood

THIS month, Clearbraces.ie launch the 2017 Smile Awards. The annual Smile Awards celebrates the Top Ten Invisalign transformations

by Clearbraces.ie dentists in Dublin.

For the first time, Clearbraces.ie is leaving the voting in the hands of the public, to choose the most deserving winner of the coveted ‘Smile of the Year’ award. People can vote for the 10 winning smiles across the Clearbraces.ie social channels – Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, by liking their favourite transformation. All voters will be in with a chance of winning a one €1,000 voucher.

For further details visit www.clearbraces.ie/ smile-awards/

Write and shine HUGE ADULT BALL POOL COMES TO TOWN

THIS summer, innocent drinks invites the adults of Ireland to dive back in time, right smack back into a giant adult ball pool, as they present The innocent Green.

The innocent Green will take place in Merrion Square from Friday, July 28 to Sunday July 30 and is set to feature, among other nostalgia filled fun, a giant ball pool, reserved for “big kids” only.

The innocent Green is a free event open to members of the public over the age of 16. People interested in joining in on the fruit-filled shenanigans, can apply for tickets via Eventbrite here: www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-innocent-green-tickets-35730559064?aff=eac2 Control the DJ set list at Desperados Inner Tequila Studios at Longitude

A giant adult ball pool is coming to Merrion Square this summer

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DUBLINLIFE

MUSIC

N O S ’ T A H W

 JAMES HENDICOTT

E D I U G S T N E EV with JAMES HENDICOTT

Laya City Spectacular

Merrion Square’s annual street performance festival lights up the weekend with jugglers, actors, sword swallowers, fire breathers and plenty of activities for the family to dive into.

There’s also a pet element this year. July 7-9, and free in.

Super Milk Wild Air Run

Lots of obstacles and an entertaining twist on the standard 5km distance will challenge runners at Lucan’s St Catherine’s Park. The main event is a 60m long waterslide, but the Wild Air Run promises obstacles galore and is open to ages 7+ on July 8.

Small Press Day

The wonderful Fumbally Stables - tucked in a laneway near St Patrick’s Cathedral - hosts some lesser known publishers for an event designed to promote comics and lesser-known magazines. One for the print connoisseurs, on July 8.

Disney Store Spider-Man Event

Dublin’s branch of the Disney franchise has long been a popular Grafton Street stop off with those of a certain age. Twenty minute events aimed at those over the age of three will highlight the comic book hero on July 8, between 10 and 12.

15th International Tango Festival in Ireland

The dancers amongst us can soak up a series of workshops and dances as the 15th edition of a popular date on the calendar returns to the city. Events take place from July 7-9.

Sea Breeze steam train trips

Take a rare steam train ride to Arklow from Dublin abroad the Sea Breeze, which will travel down one of Ireland’s most scenic lines from Connolly. Well worth the €30 per adult ticket price. July 9.

New album of the week

Haim - Something To Tell You. Having released one of the hit albums of the summer back in 2013, the Haim sisters return in the hope of making the same splash second time around.

Expect gigs to follow.

And sliding into the following week...

Get your swimsuit ready because Dublin’s 98FM is bringing back the 260ft waterslide slide with Dublin City Council and Visit Dublin!

On Saturday July 15 and Sunday July 16, the two lane inflatable slide will run down Winetavern Street, giving sliders the chance to travel through Christchurch like never before!

Wannabe sliders should tune into 98FM and following a cue to listen, be ready for action to go online and register for their wristbands. Find out more on 98fm.com or on facebook. com/98fm!

Gazette readers will get the chance to win FREE wristbands details will be in next week’s paper and on DublinGazette.com!

Musicians at a recent Sofar Sounds gig in Dublin. Pictures: Andrei Vlad Vasilescu

FREE. SIMPLE. SOCIAL. The concept of Sofar Sounds is one that very much returns music to its roots, kissing goodbye to gig promotion, ticket sales, headline tours and conventional stages.

The idea is simple: find an empty space, borrow it for the night, bring in musicians and invite strangers to enjoy them. The whole shebang is done on a donation basis, and there are other twists: the acts playing big or small - have no particular priority of billing (there’s certainly no headliner), and nobody bar the organisers knows who they are until they turn up and start playing.

From a punter’s perspective, the gigs are essentially a ‘pot luck’ night out, but one that’s become increasingly known for its high-quality curation when it comes to performers. The venues can be pretty special, too - anything from someone’s front room to a cafe, a church or a historical site. Every gig is recorded for posterity and released online a few weeks after the show takes place, meaning Sofar also has a stunning selection of atypical music videos to their name.

The concept encompasses over 300 cities worldwide, and is a growing tour de force in Dublin. Clare O’Hanlon got involved in the local version of Sofar Sounds after stumbling across a call out for musicloving people in the city a couple of years ago, and has been at the heart of the action ever since. The project has been active here for four years - it only founded globally in 2009 – and has grown in O’Hanlon’s time to bigger venues, better equipment and a monthly scramble for tickets.

“It’s got a loyal, respectful following now, but it’s also become really popular,” O’Hanlon tells the Gazette. “It can get a little difficult to keep the balance with tickets. We try to keep a balance of new people and regulars, and make sure everyone gets their chance, but it can be difficult.” Not that popularity is a bad problem to have, of course.

“In terms of venues, we work with what presents itself, and we’re often approached to offer spaces,” O’Hanlon says.

“We have to make sure people understand the concept: this is not private entertainment for the person who’s venue we’re using, for example, so they can’t takeover the tickets. It’s a public thing, and not every venue is suitable to host, but we get some great spaces.”

“Once we have a venue, we work with finding acts who want to play.

They have to keep quiet until the night, though we do make the occasional exception, for example where we’ve had acts base a tour around Sofar nights in the past. Robert J Hunter, who’s based in London, is a recent example. We’d let them to announce their appearance. The bands get a video or two out of it, but it’s really about playing music because you want to play

Sofar so good

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Siomha Brock performs at a recent Sofar Sounds gig in Dublin. Picture: Chris Basford

Green Day’s Mike Dirnt, Billie Joe Armstrong and Tres Cool. Picture: GreenDay.com

Continued from Page 13 The balance here is strong, too.

After opening with three new-ish songs, there’s a comforting depth of the back catalogue to be trawling for the older fans. The likes of ‘Longview’, ‘She’, ‘When I Come Around’ and ludicrously glorious cross-dressing anthem ‘King For A Day’ are delivered at near album quality, and with just enough snarl around the edges.

The continued presence of lots of essential albums ‘Nimrod’ and ‘Dookie’ served up together with the best of ‘American Idiot’ and even a dabble in the uninspiring ‘Warning’ on the setlist is the act of a band aiming to please.

The highlights are acoustic closer ‘Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)’, huge fireballs across the back of the stage during peaky choruses, a lengthy pre-gig audience sing-

along to Queen (plus a pink rabbit ‘giving birth’ to giveaway soft toys), and an entire track played on guitar by a young audience member who was then handed the instrument to take home. For all the oohs, ahs and hand waving, it’s utterly engaging.

Harsher critics will say modern Green Day is pop-punk by numbers, and there’s an element of truth there: Armstrong, Dirnt and Cool are very much fire-shooting, stadium-loving rays of sunshine these days, doing little more controversial than singing about masturbation and venting against Trump. That the show lacks edge, truthfully, only matters if you’re holding Green Day true to their 90s roots.

What they do offer is one of the music scene’s better doses of nostalgic familiarity, packaged in one of the liveliest, most memorable stage shows going; more ‘Having A Blast’ than ‘Burnout’.

JAMES HENDICOTT EXPLORES THE GROWING UNDERGROUND MOVEMENT OF SECRET INTIMATE GIGS WITH NO HEADLINE ACTS music.”

“The audience get tickets for free, though we do take optional donations on the night. That’s mainly just to keep things going. It’s allowed us to buy better camera equipment recently, which you can see if you watch the videos from the nights in order. Everything gets reinvested into it.

Sofar’s a big, registered business in some places. We’re all volunteers in Dublin. It’s a massive time commitment but really great to do.”

Internationally, Sofar gigs have featured huge names. Bastille played early in his

career, while Hozier, Karen O (of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs), James Bay, Emeli Sande and Wolf Alice have all made appearances.

Dublin shows - which have taken place in locations such as the Tara Building, All Out Designs and The Darkroom - have featured local stars including Ham Sandwich, Rosa Nutty, Sorcha Richardson, BARQ and Farah Elle.

Having met some of the other groups carrying out Sofar gigs globally through her work, O’Hanlon tells us she’s been told “Ireland is very relaxed” compared to some locations. “We’ve heard about

MCing between bands, other stuff that’s a bit more energised,” she explains. “Dublin is just a few cans and the bands. It’s very calm, I thinkwe kind of like it that way, you have to respect the venues.”

While the regular gigs will continue as normal, Sofar also have a big charity gig on the horizon, with September’s events aiming to raise over a million Euros. The international collective come together to promote Amnesty International on the 20th, under the title ‘A Global Day Of Secret Gigs’.

“Because Sofar’s so international, I’ve

started to feel a more personal connection with some of the things going on in the world, like the Manchester attack recently, and the refugee crisis,” O’Hanlon tells us.

“You start to know people in these places.

One of our videographers is in Reykjavik, and another Sofar person is back and forwards from Japan. It’s great to be doing something to help. For September, there are some really, really big artists involved, especially in some of the UKvenues.”

“The Amnesty Project just feels right,” she concludes. “We put on gigs in homes.

Some people don’t have them. This should

help that.” This is just the latest project, though. More generally, Sofar have their own significance: slowly taking back the idea of gigs, simply for their own sake.

 Tickets to Sofar’s Dublin gigs cannot be bought. They’re made available monthly via their mailing list, with entry to a ticket ballot typically closed around a day after each show is announced. Visit sofarsounds.com for information.

The next show will be in the Leeson Street area on July 20th.

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DUBLINLIFE

Guinot’s Crème Fluide Hydrazone delivers

Skin creams that ensure only the sun is left shining

 EMMA NOLAN

ONE of the most annoying things about wearing make up and looking after your skin in summer is the relentless shiny face.

A temperature increase of just 1°C can see an increase in sebum production by 10%.

T he latest Guinot product – Crème Fluide Hydrazone (€62.50) – is a light serum that contains mattifying powders to reduce shine. Available in pharmacies nationwide, it applies like a cream and absorbs well without leaving a greasy residue.

Another product which has been a lifesaver for me this summer is Vichy’s Idéal Soleil Anti-Blemishes SPF 30 (€19.99).

This facial sun cream (left) promises “mattifying corrective care” and it delivers.

I have long done damage to my (naturally oily) skin in summer by using regular sun creams which are full of oil, but this is specifically created for oily skin and contains salicylic acid to help unclog pores whilst providing protecting from the sun. Ideal.

Back to the future River Island revisit the 80s for inspiration

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 EMMA NOLAN STYLE EDITOR RIVER Island’s autumn winter collection is an indulgent foray into the best of the 80s.

Unapologetic and verging on tacky in the best possible way, this collection just goes for it in every way possible. Colour, shape, texture, pattern – it breaks all the rules but it works so well.

Name Title €XX; Name Title €XX; Name Title €XX

This maximalist feast for the eyes is bringing back print clashing in a big way and looks are not limited to one statement piece either. Rather ruffles, bows and baroque take over to serve 80s eleganza extravaganza.

And yes… shoulder pads are back…

This collection will be hitting stores in September.

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STYLE

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DUBLINLIFE

FOOD&DRINK

The Picky Eater WOW! IT’S not very often you get truly excited about a new restaurant venue but the team who brought you The Dean, Per uke and Periwig, Sophies and Bison Bar have done it again with Robertas , Dublin’s coolest new eatery.

Standing outside the unassuming entrance of Robertas at 1 East Essex St, Temple Bar, I was unsure of what to expect, but to say I was wowed would be an understatement!

The breathtaking glass atrium at the heart of Robertas welcomes you with its beautifully designed bar and terrace.

With an exquisite glass ceiling bathing the place in natural light it will have you more than ready to pull up a stool to enjoy a glass of wine or one of the many exotic, thirstquenching cocktails on

Robertas

Contemporary Italian

1 East Essex St, Temple Bar offer like the Pear Sidecar.

The decor in this 220 seater restaurant is amazing … The New York style plush leather booths, bulbed lined windows and striking attention to detail offers of a feel of luxury and sophistication in a relaxed environment.

Whether you’re overlooking the cobbled streets and incredible architecture of Temple Bar or gazing out over the Liffey and Grattan Bridge, you cannot deny Robertas is a special place.

Head chef Troy Watson, originally from Melbourne and previously at Fade St Social, and Rustic Stone has developed

a contemporary Italian based menu with a solid touch of Irish influence and plenty of focus on locally sourced ingredients.

From seriously delicious starters including wood-fired duck hearts for the more adventurous and Stracciatella - an Italian soft cheese with lemon confit and slow braised fennel served with sourdough still warm from the oven.

A perfect selection of mains is available to satisfy any palette, of which I find it hard to go past the delicious Iberico Secreto Pork done on the Robata grill and served with fen-

nel two ways; just thinking about it makes my mouth water.

Also on offer is the ever popular Linguini with clams, Organic Chicken marinated with chermoula and fresh wood fired pizzas.

Desserts are equally as tempting with the Lemon Brule at the top of my list.

From 11pm Thursday to Saturdays as the plates are cleared away, Robertas transforms itself into a late night hot spot where the DJ will be turning up the tunes and you can be ready to dance the night away under the stars.

So sink yourself into a comfy couch to catch up with friends for drinks, a weekend brunch or a fabulous dinner and enjoy the excellent hospitality that is Robertas.

I know I can’t wait to get back!

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TRAVEL Smuggler’s Cove

Discover glorious Greece Second-to-none sandy beaches, bougainvillea-splashed villages, round-the-clock nightlife – Greece offers holidaymakers almost endless options, writes Sylvia Pownall CRETE Crete isn’t just Greece’s largest island – it’s also one of the biggest islands in the Mediterranean.

What to expect: Beaches, beaches, beaches – the bigger the better, it seems. Plus, historywise, it’s got great credentials, with a timeline that stretches back more than 4,000 years.

Where to go: The north coast. As well as the long beaches, you’ve got cosmopolitan towns in Lassithi, the historic region of Heraklion, family-friendly Rethymnon, and the waterfront tavernas of Chania.

What to do: Root around Chania Town’s Venetian-Turkish streets. Visit the Palace of

Lindos Beach in Rhodes

Knossos. Hike the dramatic Samaria Gorge.

Then spread out on the 12-kilometre-long beach at Rethymnon.

Anything else? Crete claims to have the longest summer in the Mediterranean – it’s usually beach weather from April to October.

They’re all about family-run tavernas and laid-back beaches. For first-rate nightlife, put Kavos at the top of your to-stay list.

What to do: Relax on one of Sidari’s 3 beaches. Raid the jewellery shops and seafood restaurants in Corfu Town. Shoot down the slides at Aqualand waterpark.

Anything else? It’s well worth straying from civilisation – olive groves and wild flowers blanket Corfu’s green countryside.

KOS A good-sized island that brushes the Turkish border.

What to expect: Every type of beach you can imagine. Long swathes of sand and cosy coves necklace a hilly interior peppered with villages and castles.

Where to go: Kos has 2 very different sides.

Traditionalists favour Kefalos, with its cottages, ruins and windmills. On the other hand, party animals aim for the lively double act of Kardamena and Kos Town.

What to do: Soak in the hot springs of Thermes. Get a bird’s-eye view from Mount Dikeos. Step back in time at the ruins of Asklepieion. Snack on calamari in Kos Town.

Anything else? Greeks, Romans, Ottomans

Zante This middle-sized Ionian Island also goes by the name of Zakynthos.

What to expect: A mix of peaceful fishing villages and party towns, plus some of the best beaches in the Med. Where to go: All over, although most resorts are in Zante’s eastern half. Head over to the coast, and you’ll come across turtlefriendly coves and caves. Inland, there are miles of flower-freckled countryside.

What to do: Stroll along the harbour in Zante Town. Sip a cocktail on private Cameo Island. Hit the bars and clubs in Tsilivi.

Watch the sun set from a clifftop in Smuggler’s Cove.

Anything else? Zante is the most important nesting site in the Mediterranean for loggerhead turtles.

Rhodes King-sized Rhodes tops the charts as the most-visited Greek Island.

What to expect: The stuff of legends – be it the ancient ruins, extra-long beaches, or the famous east coast nightlife. There are quieter

Corfu Town

spots, too, including both fishing and mountain villages.

Where to go: To find the best beaches, head east – the long coastline is an uninterrupted ribbon of sand. In the west, meanwhile, you’ll unearth hamlets piled high with villas, windmills and monasteries.

What to do: Discover the Old Town of Rhodes. Dive into the waterparks in Faliraki.

Snorkel at Lindos Beach. Dine in sight of the acropolis in Lindos’ town square.

Anything else? Consider yourself a night owl? Then Faliraki is your place. Its popularity with the 18 to 30s crowd has created a roaring club scene that rivals Ibiza’s top spots.

GREECE DEALS FROM THOMSON

• 26-Aug-17, Dublin to Kos, Hotel Plantanista, Psaldi, 4T, HB, 7 nights from €419pp.

• 30-Aug-17, Dublin to Rhodes, Pefki Islands Resort, Pefkos, 3T, SC, 7 nights from €469pp • 29-Aug-17, Dublin to Zakynthos, Ionian Blue Studios, Kalamaki, 3T, SC, 7 nights from €479pp

Corfu Nicknamed the Emerald Isle, Corfu is Greece’s second-largest Ionian Island.

What to expect: A bit of everything, from low-key towns to lively beach resorts.

Where to go: For a bit of peace and quiet, head north to Gouvia and San Stefanos.

and Italians have all called Kos home at one time or another.

Chania Town in Crete

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DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

Drivers lose 14 days a year commuting to city centre A NEW survey reveals that the proposed new traffic flow on Dublin’s north and south quays will add an additional 10 days to existing annual commute time.

The survey was carried out by mobility solutions specialist, easytrip, and it has revealed that Irish motorists are losing 14 days on average per year commuting into the city centre.

Respondents to the survey also believe that the proposed changes to the traffic flow on the

Toyota makes style statement with C-HR Toyota’s new C-HR is a compact SUV with style and features that give it a stand-out look that gets noticed as MICHAEL MORONEY found when he took it across a lengthy test route that brought him to West Cork and back.

north and south quays (even with the revised proposal to allow for one lane of general traffic from Bachelor’s Walk to Eden Quay and on towards Dublin Port) would see this figure increase by an additional 10 days annually equating to a total of 24 days a year in the car.

Of those surveyed 81% commuted to Dublin city centre by car with 73% stating that the proposed Dublin quays traffic flow system will affect them and also highlighted their concern for cyclists on the same route.

More than 50% also highlighting that the changes would deter them from driving into the city.

Traffic threat to retailers RETAILERS will be alarmed to find that 62% of those surveyed said that the proposed changes to the traffic on the quays would affect their decision to shop in Dublin city.

Worryingly 95% of respondents said they would not buy a high priced item if they did not have their vehicle with them to take it home.

Motorists also highlighted that they spend extra on food (49%) and refreshments (90%) whilst shopping in the city.

A new survey shows that the proposed new traffic flow on Dublin’s north and south quays to add an additional 10 days to existing annual commute time.

THE design of Toyota’s new C-HR is a break from Toyota tradition in the shape of a four door hatchback while it sits high enough to give the feeling of being in a compact SUV. And the car gets noticed. Ever y where that I drove at least one person that I met knew that it was the new Toyota C-HR, so the marketing team at Toyota have got the message across.

Out on the road, where I drove more than 1,200km while venturing to West Cork during my test drive week, I found the car to be smooth and easy to drive.

The interior is modern and clear to use and I was comfortable quickly after the Bluetooth phone set-up and ready to go.

The large 8in Toyota Touch is the most obvious interior feature that just jumps out at you.

Set-up here was easy and intuitive and I found it easy to get to grips with the features that it offered.

For me that meant a set-up without having to resort to the owner’s manual, which means it’s a system clear to follow.

Toyota offers two petrol based engine options for the new C-HR, either the choice of a 1.8 hybrid or a 1.2 litre turbo-petrol engine.

My car was the latter

Toyota’s new C-HR comes with a striking new design look

Toyota C-HR 1.2 turbo petrol

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine 1.2 litre Engine power 116hp 0 – 100km/hr 8.9 seconds Economy 16.7km/litre

(6.0l/100km or 47mpg) Fuel Tank Capacity 50 litres CO2 emissions 135g/km Road Tax Band B2 €280 Main Service 20,000km/12 months Euro NCAP Rating 5 star (2017) Warranty 3 years (100,000km) Entry Price €26,895 and it delivered smooth power to the six-speed manual gearbox.

While I drove the petrol version the obvious first comparison has to be its hybrid counterpart because that’s the choice that most C-HR buyers will have to make.

On paper at least, the hybrid version has to come out on top, with diesel engine type effi-

ciency and a cleaner burn of the fuel for a lower CO2 rating and more importantly a lower running cost.

T h e f i g u r e s s h ow that the hybrid version, which costs about €3,000 more has almost double the official economy performance giving you 28.6km/litre (80mpg) versus 17km/ litre (47mpg) in the 1.2

litre turbo-petrol version that I drove. That makes the hybrid choice in the new C-HR to obvious one.

That choice was confirmed from personal test drive where I found that the performance s e t t i n g s h ave a b i g impact on the economy level of the car.

On day one I drive in the normal driving mode before I discovered the Eco option.

And that Eco driving option made a significant difference to the otherwise thirsty C-HR adding a further 10% to the economy level.

The overall economy level that I achieved was poorer than I had expected from the modern 1.2 litre turbopetrol engine but to be fair it was only marginally off the rated figure of 16.7km/litre (6.0l/100km or 47mpg).

That limits the range that I expect from a modern car and the 50-litre capacity fuel tank meant more stops than I would have liked.

T his aspect of the C-HR made me look at other petrol engine compact SUV’s and the choice of the Nissan Juke with its 1.2 litre turbo-petrol engine came to mind as well as the Honda HR-V with a slightly bigger engine and the new Opel Mokka X. I found that the petr o l p owe r e d To y o t a C-HR option to be the least economical of the bunch and also the most expensive starting at €26,895.

It’s also the longest and has the longest wheelbase so that’s why it was comfortable and stable on the wide range of motorway, city and rural roads that I drove across.

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Improvements at every turn

THE new Opel Insignia has arrived at Dublin Opel dealerships in the last few weeks with a new styling and design that refreshes the model in a very significant way. Opel claims that the new Insignia weighs up to 175kg less than its predecessor and is more aerodynamic to ensure improved fuel economy across the range.

The wheelbase of the new Insignia has been extended by 92mm, its overhangs have been reduced and its tracks widened by 11mm.

The car has a lower sweeping roofline, coupled with a prominent grille with slim-line

headlamps and a new rear end high-tech look.

On the inside there is a lower driving position with wrap around cockpit. The dash area includes a frameless touch screen and Opel OnStar personal assistance system at the touch of a button.

The centre stack area has been designed with three functional zones of controls (from top to bottom: infotainment / climate / assistance systems) to facilitate quick and easy operations. The Insignia is available with a wide range of latest-generation turbocharged engines and transmissions,

which have been designed to provide real-life fuel efficiency and low fuel costs. For petrol, the new 1.5 litre Turbo 140bhp unit replaces the outgoing 1.4-litre Turbo unit, while the diesel choice includes Opel’s 1.6 in both 110 and 136bhp outputs as well as the higher output 2.0-litre 170bhp diesel. Both the 1.6 136bhp and 2.0-litre 170bhp units are available in both manual and automatic transmission.

The top of the range 2.0-litre Turbo petrol 260bhp unit comes with the new eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring.

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MOTORING

Do a history check before importing a used car VEHICLE History experts Cartell.ie have reported that the Association of British Insurers in the UK are no longer using Category C and Category D vehicle write-off classification in their new Voluntary Code of Practice for the industry.

The new UK system will focus on first establishing the level of damage to a vehicle from a technical perspective, before making any commercial decision relating to the Pre-Accident Cartell claims that this has huge consequences for an Irish buyer as the level of damage sustained will now be more evident.

Ireland has not yet regulated for written-off vehicles. In July 2016 it was reported in the media that Minister for Transport Shane Ross brought legislation to cabinet which would compel insurers to notify his Department of Category A and Category B write-offs.

John Byrne of Cartell.ie says: “It’s welcoming to see how seriously the Association of British Insurers are taking the issue of write-offs which are deemed repairable and can return to the roads in the UK. In May 2016, in the wake of an RTE Prime Time investigates programme, Cartell.ie released figures which showed that 10.75% of all UK imports into Ireland in a 6-month period in 2015 had been written-off in the UK prior to import and taxation of the vehicle in Ireland.

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DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA ReelReviews

DESPICABLE ME 3

Merry minion mayhem THERE’RE plenty of Grusome scenes in Despicable Me 3 (Cert G, 90mins) when the eponymous baddie-who’s-not-so-bad and his yellow pals get mixed up with his long lost twin brother. Cue mishaps, minions, and an amusing threequel in the popular franchise. There’s nothing very fresh or innovative here, but the Despicable crew do what they do well in this enjoyable film.

It’s hard to say who the real star of the film is – superpig Okja, a marvel of seamless computer animation, or Seo-Hyeon Ahn, who gives a terrific, spirited performance

OKJA: SUPERPIG FILM IS BETTER THAN A LOT OF BIG-SCREEN BLOCKBUSTERS

A Netflix masterpiece LIKE director Bong Joonho’s 2006 film, The Host, Okja (Cert 15A, 120 mins) is a creature feature that crafts its outlandish, fairy tale-like narrative around the theme of family – natural families and surrogate families; unbreakable familial bonds and crippling family rivalries.

It’s these relationships that underline each of Okja’s expertly crafted characters and lead us to fall head-over-heels in love with this wonderfully bizarre film.

Every character in this charming epic, great and small, has a degree of depth often amiss in the average monster movie.

Regardless of their malign intentions or selfless deeds, each is given a reason for doing the things they do. Joon-ho presents us with a lesson in empathy – a film that affects, thrills, delights and disturbs in equal measure,

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

all through the medium of fantasy.

It’s a film that, perhaps, could never have been made, were it not for Netflix, and it’s this very fact that saw Okja kick up an extraordinary amount of fuss at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, where Joonho’s film made its way into the official selection for the prestigious Palme D’or.

Many, including jury president Pedro Almodovar, took exception to the lauding of a film that will likely be watched on more phone screens than on

cinema screens.

Indeed, if there is an overriding negative emotion that Okja instils, it’s a sense of disappointment – disappointment that most of us will never get to see a film so expertly crafted for the big screen in its natural habitat.

However, it makes you feel that’s the way the industry is shifting, and if Netflix continues to empower directors to produce work such as this, we have much to anticipate.

Okja is the story of a “superpig” called Okja raised ove r 10 perfect years by the young Mija (SeoHyeon Ahn) in the mountains

As Okja’s main baddie, Tilda Swinton turns in a typically scene-stealing turn as a CEO

of South Korea.

Mija’s world comes crashing down when the Mirando Corporation, responsible for the birth of the superpigs, come back to claim Okja and take her to New York.

There, the company’s PR-obsessed CEO (Tilda Swinton) plans to reveal Okja to the world – naturally, there are more sinister intentions afoot. The determined Mija sets out across continents to rescue her

best friend.

The outlined plot might seem like a children’s film – but make no mistake, if the first uttered expletives don’t tip you off, Okja handles some pretty heavy subject matter.

Joon-ho tackles animal rights, environmentalism, capitalism and corruption with expertise, but is never laborious or heavy-handed in his message.

Newcomer Seo-Hyeon Ahn balances the majority of the film’s drama and humour with remarkable ease, inspiring with determination and affection and providing some of Okja’s biggest belly laughs.

Paul Dano does a wonderful job as the emotionally conflicted leader of an animal rights group, and it’s great to see The Walking Dead’s Steven Yeun make a respectable leap to features.

Breaking Bad’s Giancarlo Esposito turns

in an eerie performance as shadowy company man, Frank.

Regrettably, the film’s biggest star, Jake Gyllenhaal, decides to channel Johnny Depp at his most annoyingly goofy – one of very few faults to be found in Okja.

As the eclectic cast suggests, Okja is transnational filmmaking at its most inspiringly pure, much like Joon-ho’s enjoyable, Snowpiercer (2013).

While the gracefully choreographed action and wonderful CGI may hint at Hollywood, Joonho’s deliberate, often lazy – but never boring – pace marks Okja as anything but mainstream fare.

Okja is a wonderfully different film; Netflix’s first masterpiece and comforting sign of what the future may have in hold for subscribers.

Verdict: 10/10

THE BOOK OF HENRY

Stunning in its own way FILM critics around the world have raved about this spectacular film – its spectacular awfulness, that is, as The Book of Henry (Cert 12A, 105mins) has left them reeling and gobsmacked. It’s all about a typical boy genius, Henry, who dies halfway through the film – but not before leaving how-to instructions for his mum to murder (yes, murder) their nextdoor neighbour. Yeesh!

BABY DRIVER

Fast-paced thrills galore ANSEL Elgort stars as the eponymous Baby Driver (Cert 15A, 113 mins)– a getaway driver caught in an increasingly murky job as he falls for a girl while hanging out with a big job loomiing. With plenty of decent driving, the film is also pretty entertaining to watch thanks to some great visuals and its excellent soundtrack, making it one of most fun and fast-paced films of the summer.

6 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

FEATURE INTERVIEW: EITHNE SHORTHALL ON FLIGHT OF FANCY

Author feels on cloud nine thanks to great buzz about her book  EMMA NOLAN

MATCHMAKING your friends can be a tricky territory – but matchmaking strangers is a whole other ballgame. This is exactly what Sunday Times journalist Eithne Shorthall has explored in her first book, Love in Row 27.

As chief arts writer for The Sunday Times, the Drumcondra native is more familiar with being on the other side of the coin when it comes to reviews.

However, “so far it’s all gone very well and I’m very pleased with how it’s going,” she told The Gazette.

Love in Row 27 tells the story of an Aer Lingus check-in attendant Cora, who, having just suffered a devastating break

up, distracts herself by matchmaking flight passengers.

Eithne said: “The original idea for the book was from me getting on an airplane. Whenever I get a flight, I always look around and think, who would I want to sit beside? Usually, I’m looking for an attractive man!

“But then I thought, what if you ended up beside a very attractive person and what if someone put you there on purpose? So I immediately thought of matchmaking and I love doing it in real life, and now I can do it in fiction as well.

“When I’m doing it with friends I know them but when Cora is matchmaking she doesn’t know them, so it’s different.”

The entertaining

r o m a n c e n ove l h a s enjoyed a fantastic reception since its release.

“We haven’t had a bad review so far, I shouldn’t say that out loud though because one will just arrive tomorrow!”

Eithne said she was struck by ner ves for a while before it was released.

“When you’re writing, you don’t know if it’s any good or not and just before it went out, I had real, serious anxiety when I thought I had written the worst thing ever and was about to ruin my life – that everyone would read it and laugh at me.

“So, when it first went out and they sent it to authors to see if they liked it and give us a quote for the cover, I was surprised when they came back

positively,” she laughed.

One of the good reviews came from romance novelist veteran Marian Keyes. “I was delighted. I never met her but I think she’s great. She must get sent so many books a week, but thankfully she took mine out of the pile and she read it and contacted me to say how much she liked it.

“She gave us a quote for the cover, which was really the best thing in the world.”

This was the same week that the TV rights of the book were sold and Eithne says that it “paled in comparison” to getting the good review from Marian. “It was such a vote of confidence. It means a lot.”

To write the book,

First-time author Eithne Shortall and the cover of her book, Love in Row 27

Eithne said she was lucky that she was able to take leave from her job for three months to go to London and focus solely on her writing.

And, even though she writes for a living, she said she couldn’t have written the book whilst doing the day job.

“They’re totally different styles and approaches. In one, you’re completely making stuff up, and in the other, you really shouldn’t be making anything up!”

Now working on her

second book but working at the same time, the experience of already writing one book has prepared her for the task, but doing both is definitely tough.

As a first-time author, Eithne said her advice to aspiring authors is to “just do it”.

“That’s the most facetious advice, but people make loads of excuses to not write. Before I

started I always said that I had no time to write, but then I just found a way.

“Just do it. Just write.

Get up earlier than everyone else in your house and even if you write 300 words a day, you would have a book written within a year.”

OH, LEMUR ... ZOO WELCOMES THE BIRTH OF TWO VERY SPECIAL PUPS IN CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES

THE NEWEST arrivals to Dublin Zoo are two adorable red ruffed lemur pups!

Proud parents Pierre and Fifi welcomed the brother and sister pups to Dublin Zoo’s lemur family recently. The latest arrivals join the troop of seven red ruffed lemurs already at Dublin Zoo. The birth of the pups is extremely important for the team at Dublin Zoo and the international breeding programme. The species is listed as being critically endangered after a significant

decline in population mainly due to habitat loss and hunting.

In the wild, the distribution of red ruffed lemurs is restricted to rainforest in north-east Madagascar.

Dublin Zoo is supporting research which aims to reintroduce red ruffed lemurs into various parts of Madagascar.

Commenting on the latest additions, team leader Ciaran McMahon said: “Red ruffed lemurs are one of the most endangered of all lemurs. The birth of two

youngsters at Dublin Zoo is hugely significant.

“We are delighted to report that our new arrivals are healthy and have adapted seamlessly to their surroundings. This weekend is the perfect opportunity for families and friends to learn more about these critically endangered species”.

The island of Madagascar has only 10% of its natural vegetation remaining, making lemurs the most threatened group of mammals on Earth.

26 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 July 2017

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SPORT

FastSport TIERNAN AND HUIJSDENS THE VICE CAPTAINS: COURTYARD Liffey Celtics star, Sorcha Tiernan and Rachel Huijsdens of DCU Mercy, were unveiled as vice captains of the Irish for the FIBA Under-18 women’s European Championship Division B. The news came with 30 days to go until the Irish Under-18 women’s team welcome 22 other countries to the National Basketball Arena, Tallaght and the National Indoor Arena in Abbottstown.

Coach Tommy O’Mahony named Ireland and Portlaoise Panthers star, Claire Melia, as captain of the squad with Tiernan and Huijsdens supporting her.

“I’m delighted to announce Claire as captain of the team this summer. The squad has a lot of leaders, as we saw in their games over the weekend.

“Claire is very experienced, competing in her third European Championship this year, and has also been picked for the Irish Senior Women’s team this past summer.”

SAILING: GOODBODY URGES PEOPLE OF ALL AGES TO GIVE THE SPORT A TRY

Dun Laoghaire Regatta set for record entry numbers

 NICK FITZGERALD sport@dublingazette.com

“THIS is the largest Regatta in Ireland and on the Western sea board of the British Isles,” Tim Goodbody, Chairman of the Volvo Dun Laoghaire Regatta 2017, tells GazetteSport, confirming it is all hands-on deck for this biennial event.

The event is now in its seventh edition and will feature its largest entry to date with 461 boats entered with over 2,500 competitors, competing over four days, beginning on Thursday, July 6 and running through to Sunday.

Within the Volvo Dun Laoghaire Regatta 2017 are 35 different classes of yacht or dingy. They represent 75 different yacht or sailing clubs.

Competitors come from the four provinces of Ireland, Scotland, the Isle of Man, Wales, the West Coast of England, South Coast of England and one even hailing from the Netherlands.

Some of the country’s topclass sailors will be participating in this year’s regatta, including Olympic silver med-

Over 460 boats will converge on Dun Laoghaire for the biennial regatta

allist Annalise Murphy.

For Goodbody, it represents a special year and one which will be celebrated in style.

“This year is the bicentenary of the commencement of the construction of Dun Laoghaire Harbour which became a port of refuge and to celebrate that we are hold-

ing our inaugural classic yacht regatta.

“We have an excess of 100 classic yachts. Of course, there’s a lot of discussion of what a classic yacht is but we’re looking at yachts that were designed over 75 years ago and were built of timber.”

He anticipates the event to

act as a showcase for the sport and urges people of all ages to have a go at sailing, stating that The National Yacht Club in Dun Laoghaire – his home club – is all inclusive.

“We need more people to go sailing. There are more yachts, they need crews, they need active people of both

sexes. We have guys and girls aboard this boat.

“In fact, our age span is for myself down to my grandson who is 13 and my granddaughter who is 11 who comes out. Another set of grandchildren come out when they’re over from England. They are five or seven.

“All ages can participate and if someone is interested they should go to one of the clubs.

“They do look a bit foreboding when you walk outside and you see this very old, historic building but knock on the door and ask about sailing or even go to the INNS, the Irish National Sailing School which is located on the West Pier.

“They run tremendous programmes and from that one gains an experience of sailing and you can then go to one of the clubs and become a regular crew member. It’s great fun, it’s safe, not discriminatory, all people are welcome.” ** For more information see www.dlregatta.org or find Volvo Dun Laoghaire Regatta on Facebook and Twitter.

Olympic riders light up the Sundrive velodrome  sport@dublingazette.com

The riders at Sundrive last weekend. Picture: David McVeigh

SUNDRIVE velodrome welcomed the stars last weekend with Olympic medalists Elinor Barker and Niklas Larsen among the competitors for the Dublin Track Cycling International 2017.

They both produced leading performances but there was plenty of home success with Irish riders landing six medals across the Scratch and Keirin events; both Felix English and Robyn Stewart came home with silver, second only to Rio

Olympians.

In the men’s Scratch race, English raced a tactical race, moving away with a group of seven riders.

A crash in the closing laps of the race led to the race being neutralised briefly – once the gun sounded again the group raced hard with Larsen taking the win ahead of Ireland’s English.

English was happy with the race, adding: “there’s a lot of depth in the field – pretty much everyone that you expect to see in the World Cup you are racing

with. It’s good in a way because you have to race them at some point – but it also makes it difficult because you want to get the points for the winter season.”

Later on Sunday, Stewart came in just behind Dutch Olympian Laurine Van Riessen in the women’s Keirin.

The relative newcomer to track racing has stormed onto the Irish scene, setting a new national record in recent weeks for the Sprint.

Determined to get the better of Van Riessen in the future, the Belfast rider was relatively

happy with her performance - “It was a good race – I think I left it a bit late to make my jump.

“I think it if went a wee bit earlier there might be a bit there – but she’s fast. I know Laurine well, so it’s always fun to get to race against each other, one day I will beat her.”

Silver also went to Fintan Ryan in the Under-23 Scratch race, when the TrackProject. ie rider lapped the field with Ethan Hayter. Bronze went to Ireland’s Sundrive Track Team rider Hugo Brennan.

6 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Loughran set for major hockey event debut  STEPHEN FINDLATER

HERMES-Monkstown’s Sinead Loughran is set for her world ranking tournament debut as she earned a place in Graham Shaw’s final plans for the Irish women’s hockey team’s tilt at 2018 World Cup qualification via the World League Semi-Final which takes starts in Johannesburg this week.

The 26-year-old former Mount Anville student is something of a late bloomer, making her first inroads into the national panel in 2016 with last minute call-up for the Hawkes Bay Cup in New Zealand.

It followed four years in the US, reaching the final four of the NCAA championship with UNC Tar Heels, including three defeats in the final.

Shaw says her “physical ability” gives the Irish side a huge asset: “She really asks questions of opponents by her physical effort around the pitch, both from a defensive point of view and also on the counter-attack.

“She had the highest of the fitness scores and her style suits the international game perfectly.

She presses aggressively and you wouldn’t want to mark her man-on-man because of the ground she covers.”

The coach adds that Loughran’s spell before Christmas in Munich playing in the Bundesliga gave her an extra impetus.

“Moving across for Germany for that three months really taught her about her game and maybe a little about herself as a person. She came home, trained really well with the group and fully deserved her spot.

“For players like Sinead, when they come in [to the Irish panel] a bit older – not at 18 or 19 – it can take a bit of time to adjust and see where your style fits in.

“It’s taken her a little bit of time; she got a taste of it [in 2016]. I think she now knows where her strengths lie within the international game and she’s trying to apply them.”

The tournament begins on Saturday with Ireland facing Japan before meeting Germany, Poland and Olympic champions England in the group stage. A top four finish there will see them reach the quarter-finals where World Cup tickets will be decided.

Transplant Games gold rush for legendary Faul Record-breaking Dalkey woman lands quartet of medals across swimming and squash,leading a brilliant Irish team performance in Malaga, Spain at the biennial World Games  STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@dublingazette.com

DA L K E Y ’ S D e i r d r e Faul – a liver transplant recipient – led the Irish team home last Sunday from Malaga following an exceptional week at the 21st World Transplant Games.

The team won 32 medals in total while at the same time demonstrating their zest for life, team spirit, sportsmanship and infectious goodwill while honouring their organ donors.

T h e I r i s h t e a m ’s impressive medals haul includes 14 gold, seven silver and 11 bronze from various sporting events.

For Faul, she managed to break two world records in the swimming pool on her way to winning four gold medals, including her sixth world title in squash.

The main objective for Team Ireland members, who range in age from

30 to 79, when taking part in the Games is to embrace life and promote organ donation. The team includes 4 liver transplant recipients and 23 kidney transplant recipients.

The 21st World Transplant Games involved 1,000 competitors from 51 countries and every athlete who competed will have received a kidney, liver, heart, lung, pancreas or bone marrow transplant.

Faul, 49, nailed down her fourth gold medal in the 400m freestyle swimming event with a record breaking time, beating swimmers from Argentina and Israel who came in second and third.

Her time of six minutes 27.89 seconds surpassed the previous world record of 6.32 achieved by British athlete J Coleman in Bangkok in 2007.

A day earlier, the mother to two sons, broke a world record in the 200m freestyle with a time of

3.01.93 and beating the previous world record of 3.05.08 set by Australian Lisa Cuthbertson at the 2009 Games in Gold Coast, Australia.

Just a few hours later, the unstoppable Faul went on to win the 100m breaststroke swim in her age category (40-49 years).

She had also retained her world champion squash title in her age category, her sixth consecutive World Games gold.

After her races, she said: “I didn’t realise I was swimming so fast. Two world records and four gold medals this week, I’m ecstatic! I smashed all of my personal bests too.

I’m thrilled with my performance.

“Thanks to Otter Swimming Club and Dublin Swimming Clun for their support, coaches Matthew MCusker and Brian Conroy and friend Claire O’Dwyer. A special thanks also to my dad and

my sons for their loving support and especially to the family of my donor for making all this possible.”

Shortly after Deirdre’s first race, kidney transplant recipient Peter Heffernan from Skerries, Dublin secured a bronze medal for Transplant Team Ireland in the backstroke event.

Reflecting on his success, he said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the race. It’s so fantastic to be able to take part and the ability to participate and do something that I love is all thanks to my donor. The competition is tough this year so I’m thrilled. A big crowd came down to support us from Transplant Team Ireland. They are a brilliant support.”

Another Dubliner, Mick Dwyer from Cabinteely, a kidney transplant recipient won two medals, the

first a gold in the golf pairs, followed by success in the ball-throw for those aged 60-69 years-old.

“It’s great to see people of my age category and older taking part and doing so well. A huge thank you to my donor and their family.

“Everyone competing here has trained extremely hard.

“No medal is easily won. I’m delighted to be here. I’m thoroughly enjoying the week. It’s excellent to see familiar faces from other countries. I hope to be at the games for many years to come.”

It capped a brilliant week for Team Ireland members, who range in age from 30 to 79, at the Games with the aim of the competition to embrace life and promote organ donation.

Record-breaker Deirdre Faul with runners up Rosaura Michael Dwyer and Garry Campbell after winning Gold in the Golf Pairs

Escudero from Argentina and Hagit Forsher from Israel

GAZETTE

30 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 6 July 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

BOXING: KINSELLA HAILS ANOTHER INCREDIBLE WEEKEND FOR MONKSTOWN

DSDAC Master-class for all ages and events THE DSDAC Masters were out in full force last weekend in Tullamore for the National Masters Track & Field Championships.

Men’s Over-55 runner Shane Sheridan, pictured, was his usual, speedy self, grabbing gold in the 100m 12.33 and 200m 25.73.

Peadar McGing, Over-60, kept himself busy all day bagging four gold medals, winning out in the 100m, 200m, 400m and the long jump with a leap of 4.50.

In the women’s section, Cathryn Brady, below, Over-50, took gold in the 1,500m and bronze in the 800m. Maxine Jones, Over-60, won three silver medal in the 800m, 1,500m and 3,000m. This augurs well for the DSD contingent heading to Aarhus, Denmark on July 28 for European Masters.

Elsewhere, Mollie O’Reilly ensured her selection for the European Junior Championships when she won the Under-20 400m on Saturday in Tullamore. In wet and windy conditions, she cruised around in the semi-final, clocking 56 seconds and produced a time of 55.40 when winning the final later in the day.

There were three DSD members in the final with Niamh Gowing finishing third in 58 seconds and Katie Magee in sixth in 59.77.

Jodie McCann looked very relaxed and smooth when winning the Under-20 1,500m, in a time of 4.42.21. Her brother Luke was second in his Under-20 1,500m in 3.55, with James Maguire third in 4.02.

Aengus Meldon set off in his U.23 800m in a relaxed manner but came storming through at the finish to grab bronze in 1.55.57.

DSD’s relay teams, meanwhile, were in sensational form in Athlone with six wins, three seconds and two thirds, and setting three national relay records.

Competitors and fans at the Monkstown Box Cup last weekend

Box Cup delights the masses sport@dublingazette.com

MONKSTOWN Boxing Club hosted its fifth annual International Box Cup in the DLR Loughlinstown Leisure Centre last weekend with over 700 boxers from 163 clubs from 11 countries taking part in the event that ran last Thursday to Sunday.

Reflecting on the competition, Monkstown’s Paul Kinsella said “the standard of the boxing was phenomenal, with many clubs calling it a mini world championships.

“Many of these boys and girls will go onto represent their individual countries

in upcoming major international boxing events.”

Due to its popularity, the organising committee decided to move from its previous venue in Sallynoggin to a bigger venue in DLR Leisure Centre, Loughlinstown.

This proved a huge hit with plenty of space for the additional rings, warm up areas, comfortable seating, athlete’s village and cafe.

“The Box Cup Committee estimate we had over 2,000 spectators per day visit the boxing event,” Kinsella added. “We were delighted to see many of our local politicians and recently announced An

ADDITIONAL NEEDS Seapoint take on blitz at Churchtown event SEAPOINT’S additional needs’ rugby team took part in De La Salle College Churchtown’s recent celebrations of 60 years of rugby, as the College recently hosted an Additional Needs Rugby Blitz at their grounds in Churchtown.

This inaugural event was primarily driven by students from the college’s Transition Year Programme, as part of their community and sports science coaching modules with Barnhall, Westmanstown and De La Salle Palmerston taking part in the competition.

Cathaoirleach Tom Murphy attend.”

Among the teams were three female champions from the highly acclaimed and very successful Mongolian Boxing Federation.

All three female boxers won their semi finals bouts on Saturday and final bouts on Sunday, and were declared champions.

Also among the teams were four from America who travelled from California, Oklahoma, Las Vegas and Texas; all their boxers were ranked number one in the USA for their age and weigh class.

The American clubs and Mongolian delega-

tion arrived in Ireland on Monday, June 26, training and sparring with Monkstown BC locals in Mounttown Community Facility, Fitzgerald Park in preparation for the Box Cup. “It was amazing to see Dun Laoghaire and the surrounding areas packed out with all these boys and girls in their boxing club tracksuits,” Kinsella continued.

“Every hotel, B&B and guesthouse were booked out for the weekend; all the local restaurants/bars had a real upsurge in customers.

“A special mention must go to Scottish boxer Lee

Welsh (Jones BC, Sterling, Scotland) who only last year was cleared of cancer and allowed back in the ring to compete. He had three very good bouts over the weekend and won all three to become Monkstown Box Cup champion.

“The organising committee, all local volunteers, worked tirelessly preparing and planning the event and they want to sincerely thank everyone who helped out at the event and in particular the referee, the judge supervisors and officials; the staff at DLR Loughstown Leisure Centre; our sponsors and supporters.”

6 July 2017 DUN LAOGHAIRE GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

MINI-LEAGUE FINALE

CLUB NOTICEBOARD

Huge crowd takes in Cuala end of year event

CUALA

THOUSANDS turned out in Dalkey for the culmination of the Cuala GAA Academy mini-league season last week.

They watched nearly 500 players aged between five and 10 years old march along Dalkey’s Main Street with their families and supporters to Hyde Park before they ran off the final series of hurling and football matches of the week-long event.

EACH of our four adult football teams

The 2007 boys enjoyed their trip to

gained two league points over the

Belfast to compete in a hurling tourna-

weekend.

ment in Naomh Eanna and gave a good

On Saturday, our seniors had an

A date for your diary – Cuala All-Ire-

inters beat Castleknock in AFL4. On

land hurling champions 2017 golf clas-

Sunday, both our AFL7 and AFL10 teams

sic, will take place on Friday, August

were awarded walkovers.

25 – Powerscourt Golf Club. Further

Well done to David Treacy, Sean

Picture: John Coveney

HURLING: SEVEN GOALS IN STORMING PERFORMANCE

The U-15 hurlers moved into the top 4

lin senior hurlers who defeated Laois in

of Division 1 after a 7-17 to 0-4 win over

the All-Ireland qualifiers and face Tipp

Raheny.

in the next round on Saturday. Venue TBC. Hard luck to Cuala’s Diarmuid

Good luck to our transition year stu-

Park on Sunday.

homes in Zambia with Habitat Ireland.

taking a break for the summer holidays

New players are always welcome as we wait for our juvenile players to come

The club mini All-Irelands took place

up through the ranks; contact Kevin on

drama.

Indeed, it was amazing how many drawn matches there was in the competition.

CUALA’S set of seven goals saw them cruise to a third win of the Under15 Division 1 hurling season at a sun-baked St Anne’s park as the Dalkey side raided with confidence.

Eoin Quinn and Conall O’Toole stamped their authority on the game early on in a tie where the Raheny hosts had to show tremendous courage and never dropped their heads despite being down a number of play-

tidy hurler and swept up any threat behind. His touch and striking was economical all through the game. David O’Dowd and James Tobin around the middle were linking up nicely with the forwards with Killian O’Shea winning everything at the back.

O’Toole was moved to centre-forward late in the game and capped a wonderful performance with two cracking goals at the death and a point that fizzed over the blackspot.

Cuala ease their way into the top four for the first time.

The adult football team lost to Naomh Olaf on Sunday.

August 19 at 10am in Shanganagh Castle.

Castle which saw great fun and much

on him. Eventually, just before the break, the dam burst. Conall O’Drisceoil, Malone, and Sean Mooney would find the back of the net in a devastating eight minute spell that blew the game wide open.

Cuala went in 4-8 to 0-3 up at the interval.

Dunne added his second goal on the re-start as Cuala continued where they left off.

O’Toole was raiding from the centre-back position and finding gaps through the middle which he exploited to devastating effect. He would end up with 2-5.

Quinn, on his left, is a

087 6414123.

and will be back in action on Saturday,

on Saturday morning in Shanganagh

ers.

Within two minutes, Cillian Dunne had rattled the net following a scramble in the Raheny goal-mouth. The keeper had already made two good saves and knew he was in for a very warm evening.

O’Toole, Ryan Malone, Shane Hayes and Tiarnan O’Braonain added points before Raheny had their best spell of the game on 15 minutes when they rattled off three unanswered scores.

But their defence remained busy as wave after wave of attacks from Cuala rained down

Clancy and Liam Madden. dents and mentors heading off to build

sponsored by O’ Donnell’s Pharmacy, is

Raheny 0-4 Cuala 7-17  sport@dublingazette.com

dip winners last week were Lucinda

ers in the Leinster MHC final in Croke

AFTER a year of hard work, our academy,

UNDER-15 DIVISION 1

This week’s Cuala development fund lotto jackpot will be €11,600. Our lucky

to Kilkenny with the Dublin minor hurl-

SHANKILL

Cuala cruise into top four of Division One

details to follow.

Moran, Cian O’Callaghan and the Dub-

O’Flionn and Liam Murphy who lost out

Cuala’s Under-15 hurlers on the attack against Raheny

account of themselves.

away win over Clontarf in AFL1 and our

086 8449902.

Our golf classic was held last Friday in Woodbrook Golf Club and was a brilliant success again this year.

Winners were: first place - Shankill Financial Services, second place - John

However, there were medals for eve-

Brady Group and third place - AIB Pri-

ryone and also a treat of free ice cream

vate Banking. Many thanks to the teams

from Teddy’s of Dun Laoghaire who sent

who took part in the event, also to our

a van up to the Castle. Everyone enjoy

sponsors, all of our “Friends of Shankill”

the summer holidays, stay safe and

who bought tickets for the raffle and

come back in August having grown a

the organising committee for their hard

foot taller.

work. Well done everyone.

Special thanks to the coaches, par-

Our Golf contact is Jimmy Nolan 087

ents and our young club players who

2633203 who already has the time sheet

make the academy possible every week.

open for next year.

Our summer camp, sponsored by

For more information on the club con-

O’Donnell’s Pharmacy, is in full swing and

tact, secretary.shankill.dublingaa.ie or

is fully booked.

call 086 4010438. Follow us on Facebook

Fun and games are ongoing. Parents, remember the camp is a nut-free zone.

No nuts in lunches please.

Contact camp director Steve Davis on

KILMACUD CROKES

and Twitter.

Join Shankill GAA Club, your community, your GAA club where everybody knows your name.

WELL done to the Dublin senior hurlers

In club football, congratulations to the

who beat Laois on Saturday 2-28 to 1-15.

AFL1 team who beat St Sylvester’s 1-16 to

Well done to Ryan O’Dwyer and Fergal

0-11, the AFL8 team that beat Na Fianna

Whitely who were the Crokes players in

1-16 to 2-9 and the AFL9 team that beat

the squad.

Beann Eadair 2-13 to 2-6.

Hard luck to the Dublin minor hurlers

Hard luck to the AFL3 who were well

and Crokes representative Mark Grogan

beaten by St Mark’s and the AFL4 team

who lost to Kilkenny, 1-17 to 3-15.

who narrowly lost to St Finian’s, Swords

Well done to the Dublin U-16A camogie who beat Galway, 3-13 to 2-13, with Anna Geragthy involved.

0-11 to 1-9.

In hurling, hard luck to the MHL1 team who lost to St Vincent’s 2-17 to 3-16.

Well done also to the U-16B who beat

Date for your diary – Kilmacud Crokes

Cork, 2-14 to 1-10, with Helen Barr and

Club AGM on Thursday, July 27 at 8.30pm

Sarah Fenlon involved.

in the club.

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR DUN LAOGHAIRE SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

JULY 6 - 12, 2017

GOLD RUSH IN MALAGA: BOX CUP: Monkstown toast biggest and best edition FAUL’S Transplant Games prove huge yet of their annual international boxing festival P30 success for Dublin athletes P29

Cian O’Callaghan was in Parnell Park on Monday to help AIG Insurance launch details of their latest travel insurance offering. Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

Cian plots Tipp takedown Cuala man upbeat about Dublin’s shot to nothing against reigning AllIreland championsTipperary next Saturday in senior hurling qualifiers

 KARL GRAHAM

sport@dublingazette.com

CUALA hurler Cian O’Callaghan is looking forward to testing themselves against the might of Tipperary after it was confirmed the Dubs would play the All-Ireland champions in the second round of the All-Ireland SHC qualifiers next Saturday.

Dublin reached the second round after a 16 point hammering of Laois, in which Cuala teammate David Treacy hit nine points.

“I suppose we knew going into the draw it was going to be one of three All-Ireland semi-finalists from last year so it didn’t really matter who we got,” O’Callaghan said while speaking at the

launch of sponsor AIG’s new travel insurance offer on Monday.

“Obviously, the All-Ireland champions are going to be a huge challenge so I suppose we are looking forward to it as well.

“It was good to get the win over Laois at the weekend to give us a bit of momentum but, at the end of the day, you want to challenge yourself against the best teams and Tipp are the best team going on last year’s form.”

Dublin have experienced some tough games lately but it should come as no surprise with the standard of hurling so high in the country at the moment.

“All you have to do was look at Cork and Wexford who, last year, were actually quite close to

them. They are going well at the moment so I think hurling is a game where things can change quite quickly.

“From Dublin’s perspective, we are fully confident that we can go and give a good display against Tipperary and hopefully come out with a win,” said O’Callaghan.

Dublin suffered a 16-point league loss to Tipp as recently as February, but having been without their Cuala stars for that game, O’Callaghan is hoping they can give them a better game of it this time round.

“A lot of young lads were blooded that day and it is a big ask when you are going out against the All-Ireland champions. I think three or four lads made their debut so it was a bit of a baptism

of fire but, look, I think the league means nothing at this stage of the year.

“It is all about current form and how you are going so we are confident we are going well at the moment and that league match won’t impact Saturday’s result.

“There is no bigger challenge than playing Tipp. When you are a young lad the dream is to play All-Ireland champions and play big matches.

“I think there are a lot of lads in the Dublin camp who are of the mindset, that we want to go out and see one-on-one are you better than the man you’re marking, then as a unit can you come together and beat the best team in the country.”