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April 28, 2011

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Hat’s a great look: Fun at an Easter party CATHERINE Magee certainly had

Football: Local sides face opening ties in the Dublin SFC Page 32

a memorable look when she joined in the fun at a Mad Hatter’s tea party on Easter Sunday in Deerpark, Mount Merrion.

She joined lots of other enthusiastic youngers (and more than a few adults) in dressing up in some crazy clothes, huge hats and memorable make-up for the DLR Events party. Well, whatever about Alice, Catherine was in Wonderland at the party.

Picture: Enda Doran

Full Gallery on Page 8

Sports Awards: April stars and team nominees are announced Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 23 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Shock as theatre website is hijacked Staff upset to see site redirect users to ‘adult’ website

Q DAWN LOVE

STAFF at the Mill Theatre got a rude awakening last Tuesday morning when they discovered that their website had been hijacked, with anyone logging onto Milltheatre. com seeing an adult website pop up instead.

Within four hours, computer company Digiweb had managed to create a new website: Milltheatre.ie.

Theatre manager, Karen Carleton, told the Gazette that staff had worked around the clock over the Easter weekend to ensure that phones were manned for

enquiries relating to the popular Southside theatre and its upcoming productions.

But, she said, the incident at the theatre, which will celebrate its fifth birthday on May 6, had been very “distressing and traumatic” for staff.

Full Story on Page 4

2 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 28 April 2011

FastNews

SURVEY: A VERY LONG FALL FROM THE HEIGHT OF BOOM

Farmer hunks are needed for 2012 calendar

Property prices fall by 58% Q DAWN LOVE

dundrum@gazettegroup.com

Art exhibition part of Bealtaine celebration DUN LAOGHAIRE Active Retirement Association is to host an art exhibition in Dun Laoghaire Art Gallery as part of the Bealtaine celebrations. The official opening will be performed at 6.00 pm on Thursday, May 5, by An Ceann Comhairle, Deputy Sean Barrett.

An Age and Opportunity initiative, the Bealtaine festival is Ireland’s ground-breaking celebration of creativity in older age. From May 1 to May 31 nationwide, there are opportunities for people to get involved, to try something different and to simply enjoy themselves.

Goodies for Marie: A 27-year wait for the Nutgrove Mother’s day prize CONGRATULATIONS to Marie Curran, of Ballycullen, Firhouse, the lucky winner of the Mother’s Day Competition at Nutgrove Shopping Centre.

Marie said she’s been coming to Nutgrove Shopping Centre since it opened in 1984 and it was her first time to win anything.

Marie won a personal makeover from Ebano, a Deeor Boutique gift voucher for

€100, a brand new phone from Carphone Warehouse and a fabulous bouquet of flowers from Trimbles Flowers & Gifts.

With her first win in 27 years of entering competitions, Marie was certainly delighted with her prize hamper of goodies.

She was presented with the voucher and flowers by Sean Aylward, Nutgrove Shopping centre manager.

PROPERTY prices in south Dublin have fallen by as much as 58% from the height of the boom, according to a new survey by nationwide property consultants, Real Estate Alliance (REA).

According to the survey in the south of the city, a three-bedroom, semi-detached property recently sold for €307,000. At the peak of the property boom, it was sold for €580,000, representing a 47% decrease.

Meanwhile, a threebedroom, two-storey mid-terraced house, also in the Rathfarnham area, recently sold for €210,000, compared to €500,000 at the peak, representing a 58% decrease.

Real Estate Alliance is now calling on the Government to establish a National Property Register.

This week its CEO, Eimer O’Keeffe, said: “To truly ascertain the level of the marketplace, it is important to look at actual sales at private treaty, rather than examining asking prices in various reports.

“As market activity is slow in the November / December period, many of our client vendors put off reducing asking prices until mid-January/February 2011, when activity starts back up. Dropping prices when nobody is looking only makes a property look stale and

vendors more desperate. There is no doubt that reports based on asking prices are inherently flawed, as values for similar houses within the same estate can fluctuate wildly. We now call on Government to immediately implement the long overdue National Property Register.”

According to group chairman, Pat Riney, buyers are begining to see an opportunity distressed sellers are making for opportunistic buyers.

The strongest demand, according to Real Estate Alliance, is for new residential property close to urban centres, particularly traditional semidetached and detached homes, when priced correctly.

The demand for apartments and terraced homes in secondary towns is assessed as “poor”, and there is no doubt that the higher-than-normal contract deposits being sought by lenders for this sector has effectively stopped sales – this is an area that NAMA are starting to look at with the two largest Irish financial institutions.

Limited credit availability is still seen as the main impediment to sales proceeding, and the spectre of a trend of rising interest rates is also identified as being a “significant” influencing factor amongst first-time buyers considering entering the market place, according to REA.

SUPPORT DUNDRUM BUSINESS SHOP LOCALLY

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IRISH farmers are wanted to pose for the agriculture answer to the Calendar Girls and the New York Firefighters for the Irish Farmer Calendar 2012.

Calendar coordinator and Dundrum native, Ciara Ryan is, once again, calling on Irish farmers to man up, go topless and pose for the 2012 edition.

The calendar has attracted orders from the US, Australia, Britain, Germany, Poland and France, with an international audience hungry to see the charms of Ireland’s farmers.

Calendar organisers are now calling on your county’s finest farmers to come on board for 2012.

Farmers who wish to apply should visit www. farmercalendar.com by no later than May 15.

CALL THE GAZET TE ON 60 10 240

28 April 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 3

BUSINESS: LAUNCH

A new website for CBA

Media: Students scoop awards MEDIA STUDENTS from Griffith College Dublin scooped two awards at the annual National Student Media Awards, the Smedias.

The award ceremony was held at the Mansion House in Dublin, recently.

Dylan Madden (right) from Dundrum, a third-year student of the BA in Photographic Media at the college was awarded News Photographer of the Year for his images that capture protests that took place in Dublin and Cusco, Peru, over the past year (above).

Mathias Odden, from Norway, a third-year student of the BA (HONS) in Journalism and

Visual Media, also won the Smedia TV Production of the Year for his short film entitled, The Irish Pub Industry.

Now in its 11th year, the Smedias have gone from strength to strength. This year saw fierce competition with more than 1,500 entries from 10 colleges around the country. Griffith College’s faculty of Journalism and Media Communications had 19 students shortlisted, with 12 students making it through to the final.

For more information on Griffith College courses, go to www.gcd.ie.

THE Churchtown Business Association has launched a brand new website.

According to the organisation, the new site will allow local residents in the area, and those outside the area, to log onto the CBA site and contact local business for information on shops/stores/restauranst/pubs/motors/ services/tradesmen and many other categories before making that purchasing decision.

The theme of this new formed Churchtow n Business Association is, Think Local, Think Churchtown.

The new site can be found on www.churchtown.ie This association is supported by DLR County Council, DLR Enterprise Board and DLR Chamber of Commerce.

4 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 28 April 2011

COUNCIL: REDUCTIONS IN BUDGET, REVALUATIONS RESPONSIBLE FOR RISE

ARTS: THEATRE STAFF’S SHOCK OVER INCIDENT

Rate hike for 40% of DLR business

The Mill Theatre, Dundrum Town Centre

Mill’s site is switched after hijack Q DAWN LOVE

dundrum@gazettegroup.com

STAFF at the Mill Theatre got a rude awakening when they discovered that their website had been hijacked, with anyone logging onto Milltheatre.com seeing an adult website pop up instead, last Tuesday morning.

Within four hours, computer company Digiweb had managed to create a new website, Milltheatre.ie.

Theatre manager Karen Carleton told the Gazette that staff had worked around the clock over the Easter weekend to ensure that phones were manned for all enquiries relating to the popular Southside theatre and its upcoming productions.

But, she said, the incident at the theatre, which will celebrate its fifth birthday on May 6, had been very “distressing and traumatic” for staff.

“It has been traumatic, to say the least. Staff found it very difficult to deal with.

“Thankfully, we managed to migrate most of our links, and our ticket-

Q DAWN LOVE

dundrum@gazettegroup.com

ing is separate,” she said.

Carleton said it was now business as usual for the theatre, and apart from their own birthday celebrations, which will take place in the first week of June, there are several new productions that are likely to go down a treat with theatregoers.

Local company, the Balally Players, will take centre-stage this week with their production, Unoriginal sin, which Carleton describes as a “slightly naughty and h i l a r i o u s ” c o m e d y.

Directed by Brian Molloy, the show is running until this Saturday, April 30.

Other shows M e a nw h i l e , o t h e r shows coming up will include the musical, The Pajama Game, which runs from May 3 until May 7.

“We’re busy right up to July and, of course, we will be celebrating our fifth birthday too,” said Carleton.

For details on upcoming productions, you can visit the theatre’s new website, www.milltheatre. ie, or call 01 296 9340.

A healthy offer: Educogym trial that won’t stretch your budget THIS model looked perfectly

relaxed as she stretched out under Educogym’s watchful eye, with the company – which has an outlet at Dundrum Town Centre – keen to encourage everyone interested in health to avail of its trial membership offer for €50.

While some may stretch themselves under the diverse range of Educogym exercises, the company is keen to promote the trial

membership offer, which won’t stretch health-conscious Dundrum locals’ wallets or budgets too much.

The trial offer includes a consultation on diet and nutrition, a full body analysis and three training and fitness sessions with a personal fitness trainer.

To avail of the €50 trail offer, which ends this Saturday, April 30, call 1850 737 737, or email dundrum@educogym.com.

N E W f i g u r e s h ave revealed that 40% of businesses in Dun LaoghaireRathdown (DLR) have seen an increas in their commercial rates.

The increase in rates came into effect in January, following a revaluation of all commercial properties within the county by the Commissioner for Valuation.

However, in a response to Fianna Fail councillor Tom Murphy, at a recent council meeting, Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) said that 4% of those with commercial properties had seen no change, while 56% of ratepayers had seen a decrease in their bill.

The council said the decision to carry out the “general revaluation of all commercial properties in DLR was made by the Commissioner of Valuation”, and not by the council.

DLRCC said the income provided for in the 2011 budget was now €88.9m – a reduction of €1.8m, or 2%, on the prevaluation estimate.

The council said it has also made a provision of €3.5m in this year’s budget against anticipated losses arising from further successful appeals to the Valuation Office/

Valuation Tribunal by ratepayers who are dissatisfied with the outcome of representations made.

“It is estimated, therefore, that the total cost to the council in 2011 associated with the revaluation will be in the region of €5.3 million, which is equivalent to 4.3% of total council expenditure in 2010,” said the council.

In relation to the ARV, the council said this was calculated by dividing the rates income by the total valuation of the county.

Consequence “Unfortunately, as a direct consequence of the revaluation, and the resulting decline in 2011 in the county’s valuation base relative to South Dublin and Fingal, DLR’s ARV in 2011 is 15.6% above Fingal’s, and 2.4% above South Dublin’s.

“It can be seen from the foregoing that this council did not benefit in any way from revaluation; that our rates income provided for in the 2011 budget has reduced by 2% in comparison to that provided for in the 2010 budget, and that our 2011 ARV is 2.3% lower than that which members [elected councillors] could have determined as provided for in the revaluation legislation,” said the council.

28 April 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 5

FUNDRAISER Over 700 expected to attend event in Terenure

Tag rugby blitz in aid of Niall Mellon dundrum@gazettegroup.com

FORMER Ireland and Leinster rugby star, Bernard Jackman, was on hand recently to launch the annual tag rugby tournment which is taking place on June 18 at St Mary’s Rugby Club, Terenure.

Over 700 sports enthusiasts are expected to participate in the event, organised by Andrew Doyle, which is in aid of the Niall Mellon Township Trust.

Speaking at the launch, Jackman said: “We are asking everyone around the country to join this tournament, not only for a great day out but for a great cause.”

The event will consist of teams of 12 players, and individuals are very

welcome to come along where teams will be organised.

Andrew Doyle is a veteran volunteer for the Niall Mellon Township Trust, and will be heading out for the fifth time on the charity’s building blitz on November 12-19.

He knows the hard work of the rugby isn’t anything compared to the hardship that many African families live in.

“This is a fantastic fun way to help raise funds for the Niall Mellon Township Trust. Each year the event is growing in size and, whether you are a rugby expert or not, everybody is guaranteed to have a great time. I first went out with the charity in 2006 and found it so rewarding I keep returning.

“The blitz is hard work, but when you see the

squalor the people live in within the townships you do it with pleasure and pride. I am very much looking forward to heading out to Witsand near Cape Town this year to help house the many families who so deserve what we take for granted in life.”

Jackman said: “Tag rugby has become very popular in Ireland, and I am delighted to help promote this event to get more people involved in a great game and, more importantly, to help raise funds for a superb cause.

“I have heard many volunteers say how gratifying it is to block lay, paint or mix cement for the week’s building blitz and see the look of delight on the beneficiary families when they receive keys to their new home.The

Tag Rugby Tournament takes place on June 18 in St Mary’s Club, Terenure from 12pm – 6pm.

For more information, contact Andrew Doyle on 086 8144041, email tagrugbyblitz@ gmail.com or visit www. nmtownshiptrust.com/ Fundraisers/tagrugbyblitz

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Q PAUL HOSFORD

A biting issue: How to keep your children safe around strange dogs

Former rugby star Bernard Jackman with model Alie Lacey launches the Tag Rugby Tournment in aid of the Niall Mellon Township Trust

PETS PAGE 17

6 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 28 April 2011

CHILDREN Launch party for a new childrens’ studio paints a

Fiach, Behibhinn and Aabha Byrne-Hanna. Pictures: Geraldine Wood

The Giddy way to have Dundrum fun OUTH Dubliners knew that if they wanted to have some Giddy children – in the best possible way – then they were well advised to attend the launch party of the new Giddy Studio at Dundrum Town Centre.

Under the care of Helena Dilleen and her team, a Giddy time is guar-

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anteed for children, with lots of fun, colourful activities to enjoy. Parents can enjoy the Giddy experience too – after all, with a €5 per hour “Drop And Shop” facility, children can be safely left at the studio to have lots of fun while their parents continue on into the centre.

The launch party was a big, colourful success, with lots of children and grown-ups keen to have a Giddy experience, and have a go with their artistic skills. Hamleys’ Bunny hopped over to take a look at the launch party, and meet some of the children, with the day proclaimed a great success.

Conor Sack-Clinton Orlaith and Caoimhe Finnegan Alison Canavan with baby James

Aisling and Aoife Sneyd

The day was a great way to make new friends for Ellla

Loubna Berro met a seasonal favourite

28 April 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 7

memorable picture of happy south Dublin families and kids

Sarah Murray and Olivia Jones

and Sophie Stokes with Ava and Christian Fitzgibbon

Grace Lyons

Everyone had lots of fun, with old hands picking up paint pots to help brush along with the youngsters

8 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 28 April 2011

DEERPARK Enjoying the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party for Easter

Tiernan Fitzgerald

Hats off to a great event

DLR Cathaoirleach Cllr Lettie McCarthy and Ciara Murnaghan, who was a winner in the Hatwalk competition. Pictures: Enda Doran

N Easter Sunday in Deerpark, Mount Merrion, all was not what it seemed as a white rabbit, a mad Hatter and a little girl called Alice hosted a most unusual tea party complete with a tea-cup ride, giant chess, croquet, a hat walk, balloons, an Easter trail and a host of surprises on picnic tables under a tree. To celebrate Easter and the full bloom of spring, DLR Events invited young and old to put on their maddest hat and come to the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Guests were encouraged to dress up as one of the Alice in Wonderland characters, and wear the maddest hat possible.

Pictured in mad hats are cousins Tiernan Fitzgerald and Indi Kiernan

Ciara Murnaghan

Pictured with their mad hats are Catherine, Laura and Matthew Magee

O

Pictured on the “Hatwalk” is Robyn Murphy who was a winner in the competition

28 April 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 9

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SHOP Customer service is at the heart of new retail business in Dundrum

New electrical store set to generate 30 jobs Q STAFF REPORTER

A NEW electrical store in Dundrum Village will create 30 jobs and hopes to buck the trend in consumer spending.

Gorey businessman, Dominic Smith, has opened a new 11,000 sq ft retail superstore in the old Dundrum Shopping Centre, that will generate employment for 30 permanent and part-time staff over the coming months.

The Cavan native first opened

Dominic Smith Electrical in Gorey, Co Wexford in 1996 and the store continues to go from strength to strength.

Dominic attributes the success of his business to the importance the company places on customer service.

“At Dominic Smith Electrical we are dedicated to delivering excellent customer service. We always put the customer’s needs first and strive to deliver an enjoyable, five-star shopping experience to all our custom-

ers.”

Dominic has over 20 year’s experience of selling appliances, and continues to work hard to bring his customers the best products to suit both their budget and needs. Free coffee is offered to customers in store, making for a friendlier, more relaxed atmosphere.

A number of key brands have signed up, with the new store not only a premium Apple reseller, but also boasting the only full Acer Experience Centre in Dublin.

Dog day afternoon: Local vet THE NEW Dundrum Veterinary Clinic opened last week, with guest of honour, panto queen June Rodgers, cutting the ribbon on the big day.

The opening was a great success, with a great turnout of locals, who were well entertained by June!

Pictured at the opening are Anton O’Connor with his grandson, Cian; panto star June Rodgers, vet Mark Heffernan and Winston the dog; Dundrum locals Linda Quigley and Zena Smith, with Jamie the dog, and vet Adrienne.

The store has a custom-designed Miele premium partner centre, where a variety of cooking demos will be held in store – the first of its kind in Ireland.

The store also boasts a soundproof media room for customers to relax and experience the effect of a range of products as if they were in their own living rooms.

Customers can access the store from both the main entrance to the Dundrum Village Shopping Centre, as well as from the Dundrum

bypass, making it convenient for customers.

To celebrate the expansion, the store is offering customers the opportunity to buy a number of appliances for low prices.

Dominic Smith is part of the Expert Group, Ireland’s largest electrical retailer with 64 stores nationwide. Their members are independent retailers, who, through Expert, are able to combine purchasing, marketing, and general market information.

28 April 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 28 April 2011

FETAC

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

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National Framework of Qualifications

Great employers know… there are over one million reasons to choose FETAC! EVERY business aims for highly skilled flexible employees who can not just do the job in hand, but who can take one new learning and challenges too.

You want to choose the best person for the job and then make sure they stay ahead.

Choose applicants who have quality assured FETAC awards that are part of the National Framework of Qualifications.

The National Framework of Qualifications is a ten level Framework that makes it easier to understand awards in education and training in Ireland. FETAC, the Further education and training Awards Council, makes awards at levels 1-6 of the National Framework of Qualifications.

The National Framework of Qualifications allows for different award types which ensure that achievement in learning can be appropriately recognised and understood, step by step.

Major awards recognise a large amount of learning, resulting in the achievement of Certificates. Certificate titles include the level of the award, for example, Level 5 Certificate Business Studies.

Minor awards recognise smaller amounts of learning and are coherent in their own right. Minor awards are the essential building block for FETAC awards.

Minor awards lead to

Component Certificates.

Special purpose awards recognise a narrow range of learning that is typically specifically focused on employment, for example Level 5 Road Winter Maintenance. Special Purpose Awards lead to Specific Purpose Certificates.

Supplemental awards, leading to Supplemental Certificates, recognise the learning that follows other awards. They update prior learning, and help employees stay ahead of the curve or to comply with new leg-

islative requirements.

For more information on the Framework, view www.nqai.ie .

Making recruitment easy When you choose a FETAC award, you can be confident that the skills are relevant to today’s employment standards.

Applicants will have a knowledge base that enables them to keep on learning and to up-skill as required to help your

business stay ahead. Key competences valued by employers such as communications, team working and interpersonal skills are built into award structures.

Awards requirements and standards are published on www.fetac.ie in the Awards Directory so you can check for yourself what lies

behind the certificate.

If you are recruiting staff, check out our Employers page on www.fetac.ie. It provides advice on how to frame advertisements so as you get the best information from potential employees.

For example, many employers now frame recruitment requirements according to the Framework: ‘Successful applicants will have a level 4 qualification or equivalent.’

You may also want to

understand how qualifications achieved outside of Ireland relate to Irish qualifications. The National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI) provides a free service to employers to assist with this. View www.nqai.ie A FETAC award is generally achieved through further education and training provision and is quality assured.

FETAC awards can be achieved following programmes offered through VECs, FÁS, Fáilte Ireland, Teagasc, a wide variety of private providers / training companies, including in the workplace or in a community setting.

Further education and training in Ireland is known for its dynamism and innovation, but also because it is genuinely accessible to learners nationwide, in over 1,500 centres.

One Million reasons…

In 2010 FETAC celebrated over one million people achieving a FETAC award. This means that roughly one in three people of working age have a FETAC award.

Most are adults, who have taken the time and

made that commitment to continuously learning, tackling gaps in experience, stretching ability, engaging with new ideas and knowledge. FETAC people with this kind of energy are just what your business needs.

President McAleese described FETAC learners as people who take ‘control, adjusting to the changing economic conditions, getting ready for the new labour market requirements, using their time well and investing in the optimism that comes from doing something positive. It is people with that cool mixture of realism and optimism and ‘can do’ attitude that will help Ireland become a stable and prosperous economy in the months and years ahead.’

A unique celebration was hosted in Dublin, among the audience were some leading employers who found that providing training on site as part of the workplace not only increased staff commitment to quality, but also increased compliance with essential health and safety requirements.

Learners themselves give the FETAC system the ‘thumbs up’; Timothy Forde completed his Level 6 Supplemental Certificate Domestic Gas Installation with FÁS so as to be fully equipped to start his own business in a niche market.

Timothy saw learning and awards as ‘stepping stones to future suc-

Over one million people have a FETAC award. Enrico Jennings, Tsvetolina Tonova, Timothy Forde and

cess…It is very important that I undertake learning in my relevant expert field.’ Yaoweii Sun achieved the Level 5 Certificate Information Technology while working as part of the management team at Dominos Pizza. ‘Education opens doors and opportunities. It gives you options and helps you think differently.

Completing my FETAC course helped me develop both career and life skills. It has given me perspective and helped me improve my ability to communicate effectively.’

FETAC - taking people further….

FETAC provides an important route into higher education for many learners, including those in the workforce. In 2010, almost one in five learners applying through CAO to Higher Education indicated that they had a FETAC award.

Institutes of Technology and Universities continue to expand entry routes for FETAC award holders. Michael Cloo-

nan from Inishbofin built on the local rich tradition of hospitality by taking a Fáilte Ireland programme in the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology first in Bar Skills at level 5.

Now Michael has progressed and is studying for his Bachelor in Business in Bar Management. Participating in ‘programmes and awards give me a great foundation not only for industry but for life’ said Michael.

Employers such as Monaghan Mushrooms use programmes leading to FETAC awards to ensure consistency across work practices and to provide structured career paths within the industry. If you think this is what your staff or organisation needs, consult the Employers Page on www.fetac.ie. FETAC is glad to work with employers to ensure Ireland is ready and skilled to shape and make opportunities for all of us.

There are one million reasons to choose FETAC. Are you one?

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Mulcahy, Michael Cloonan, Carmel Boylan, Seรกn Walsh, Ann Marie BrettJoseph Barry celebrate.

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

28 April 2011 GAZETTE 13

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FastNews PROGRAMME A total of 300 placements available Don’t miss your chance ONE lucky Dublin couple could have their dream wedding as goldenpages.ie are offering a Gold Wedding worth €30,000.

Voting is about to close for couples who have entered the competition on goldenpages.ie.

The three couples with the most votes will go through to the final where one very lucky couple will be crowned the winner.

The winning couple will receive a Gold Wedding worth €30,000 on two conditions: 1, they must get married on Saturday, September 10 this year, and 2, they must accept a second “mystery condition”, which will be revealed when the winning couple is announced. Voting deadline is Friday, April 29.

Getting back to work with beginagain.ie Q STAFF REPORTER

EXPERIENCED and professional individuals in Dublin, who are eager to rejoin the workforce, have the opportunity to take up some 300 work placements provided

by Begin Again (www. beginagain.ie), a career advancement programme developed by the Irish Centre for Business Excellence (ICBE).

The programme, which was launched in 2010, has already placed over 400 unemployed people in work placements throughout Ireland.

Over 240 of these have now returned to employment, providing the

exchequer with an additional estimated €4.8m on an annualised basis.

The programme is a mix of certified training, internship and mentoring, with four central themes; employment and employability, resilience and wellbeing, innovation and enterprise and life-long learning and training.

Having recently completed the programme, Dubliner Clare Curtin said: “The Begin Again programme has not only helped me secure employment, it has also very professionally blended my expertise with the company’s requirements.

Begin Again is the only programme that has

offered me anything concrete in terms of employment opportunities.’’

Over 300 Companies have taken part in the programme to date, with established companies such as Supermacs, Boston Scientific and Bewleys all providing work placements and full-time employment opportunities.

Funded by the Labour Market Activation Fund, the Begin Again programme has enabled people who were experiencing both short-term and long-term unemployment to gain that crucial foothold back into the workforce. To date, 41% of participants

Mike Gaffney, of Begin Again, and programme supporter, Mark Fielding of ISME

have obtained employment, 19% have gained self-employment or contracts, with a further 5% re-entering the education system. A further 21% are currently in workplaces with real job prospects.

Begin Again participants retain all of their social welfare benefits during the work placement programme.

Explaining the impact of Begin Again, Pat

O’Connor, CEO of the ICBE said: “We have seen participants come from a broad range of backgrounds and educational levels, including engineers, accountants, quantity surveyors, sales and administration professionals and operational level people. Having had a successful outcome for over three-quarters of our 400 participants, 49% of whom were long-term

unemployed, we believe we are providing a valuable service for the Irish public and the Irish State.

We estimate that Begin Again is costing less than 50% of any previous government-sponsored labour market activation programme.”

For further information on the Begin Again programme go to www. beginagain.ie or call 061 371753.

28 April 2011 GAZETTE 15

FESTIVALS Foodies, rejoice – Taste of Dublin is coming up

Vogue Wilson

Sheana, Eabha and Molly Lewis can’t resist following Ross Lewis’s fruity fare

Tempting event to tickle taste buds ...

HE sixth annual Taste of Dublin is set to once again tickle taste buds, when the outdoor food and drink festival takes place from June 9 to June 12 in the serene surrounds of the Iveagh Gardens in Dublin 2.

The festival will feature al-fresco dining, wine tastings, live chef demonstrations and the chance to meet more than 100 artisan food producers, as well as a number of well-known

T

foodie faces and celebrities, including Gino D’Acampo, Derry Clarke, Conrad Gallagher, Catherine Fulvio, Ross Lewis and Neven Maguire, to name but a few.

With Superquinn once again on board as headline sponsor, tickets are now on sale from the ticket line at 0818 300 030. For further information on the delightful, delicious festival, see www.tasteofdublin.ie.

Eabha Lewis

Vogue Wilson was helping to promote the event

Top foodies, Ross Lewis and Catherine Fulvio

Molly Lewis

16 GAZETTE 28 April 2011

Gazette Contacts

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day

Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251

Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com

Every little face...

PICTURED launching the Face of Tesco – a competition to find three staff members to model in the company’s 2011 Autumn Winter Clothing Campaign, are the judges - model agency boss Rebecca Morgan, fashion editor Bairbre Power and fashion expert Darren Kennedy along with models Ellie Murphy and Carl Shaaban. Prizes for the winner include modelling in the Autumn Winter Clothing photo shoot, a Tesco wardrobe, a professional hair and make-up consultation, and more.

Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Get your hats out for a right royal Dublin do WHY NOT celebrate Prince William’s marriage to Kate Middleton, this Friday, April 29, at Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Killiney, with an afternoon to remember?

Guests can enjoy a glass of Prosecco on arrival, then sit back, relax and view the royal wedding on screen, while enjoying a delicious three-course lunch. Come along with friends and watch as history is made, when the heir to the British throne marries his college sweetheart.

Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel is located just a stone’s throw from Dalkey, and enjoys stunning views over Dublin Bay. The Royal Wedding Lunch Package costs €29.95.

To make an enquiry, or booking, please contact reservations on (01) 2305556 or email reservations@ fitzpatricks.com

Acting for beginners AN Acting for Absolute Beginners course starts on May 15 and runs for 10 weeks in Dublin city centre.

With students from Lucan and Swords already signed up for the course, tutor Ronnie McCann says he is looking for students from all over the city to take part.

DIARY The course introduces students to the basics of acting and offers a hands-on practical approach that will get the creative juices flowing and explores new and inventive ways to become the next De Niro or Winslet.

Ronnie McCann has been a professional director and actor for 20 years and, as an actor, he has been in many television dramas and is also a regular in Casualty.

He has also been in several feature films and has worked on camera and stage in Europe as well.

He trained at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama and Lee Strasberg in New York.

He also teaches acting for camera and directing at several leading drama colleges, including the Gaiety School.

“There will be lots of laughter, excitement and fun. If you think ‘I wouldn’t have the talent’, but your instincts tell you differently, this is the course for you. It is a great way to meet new people, explore new ways to communicate and develop new skills that you can use in life,” Ronnie says.

The course takes place on Sun-

days from 2pm - 4.30pm in the church just off Frances Street. It costs €140 for 10 weeks. Contact 086 7838619 / 01 6293976 to book.

Support Norris and Aware A QUIZ night will be held in aid of AWARE and Senator David Norris in the Grand Hotel in Malahide this Friday, April 29.

Sheila Byrne, who is a fundraiser for Senator Norris’s presidential campaign said: “I have met with the CEO of AWARE and he is delighted that they will be part of this fundraising night. A lot of charities are finding it difficult to get funds due to the downturn of this wonderful island of ours. Fortunately, with positive thinking and helping each other it won’t be long before we get this country up and running again.

“During the course of his election campaign, and if he is elected as the next President of Ireland, Senator Norris will focus on three key areas in our society and will shine a light on the key issues associated with these three areas: Mental Health and Wellbeing, Culture, and Enterprise,” Sheila said.

The quiz night kicks off at 8pm.

All are welcome.

28 April 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: IT’S IMPORTANT TO RESPECT A DOG’S INSTINCTS AND ITS FEARS

Keep your child safe around strange dogs E all know that man’s (and woman’s) best friend is the dog! Dogs love us unconditionally and their level of gorgeousness goes right off the, well, the gorgeousness scale. You can tell I’m a doggie kinda gal?

However, even the nicest doggie has been known to bare his gnashers and, quite often, it’s a small child who bears the brunt of his anger.

All parents know that kids go off the rails when they spot a dog. Their natural instinct is to run up and pet the animal, try to hug it, pick it up and scream and squeal with excitement, often upsetting the poor pooch, albeit unintentionally.

Now, to a small child and even an adult, this

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type of adulation is a normal reaction and appears cute – to a dog it spells something entirely different. Sudden movements and loud, ear-splitting screams often cause the poor dog to feel fear and could promote an aggressive response in the friendliest and most easygoing of canines.

So, as a parent, what can you do to protect your child from strange dogs?

Well, here are a few tips I hope will come in handy.

• Teach your child to respect a dog’s instincts and most importantly, its fears. When around a strange dog, ask your child to speak quietly and to move slowly – no running around making mad flapping movements.

• Never allow your child

to ride a bike, a flicker scooter or skate too close to a strange dog. Some dogs feel scared because they are not normally used to these things, and may even chase the moving object because such behaviour can trigger a dog’s natural prey instinct.

• If a strange dog gets too frisky or excited around your child, then teach the child to behave like a statue. Your child will need to drop any food or toy they’re holding and stand still, like a statue or a tree. Statues are boring for dogs – they will usually come over, sniff and go away. Practise this with your kids, so they know exactly what to do if a dog rushes at them.

• Teach your child to

Even friendly dogs can be aggressive when provoked

never, never, and again I stress, NEVER pat a dog without the owner’s permission. I’ve lost count of the times kids have rushed up to me in the park to try and grab hold of my dogs’ heads and attempt to rub them and, when I pull my

dogs away, the parents get stroppy. There is a reason why you must seek the owners’ permission. Some dogs, two of mine included, do not like strangers patting them and may become aggressive due to nervousness. Teach your

child to respect a dog’s personal space and his right to refuse to be patted by strangers.

• If the owner gives permission, teach your child to approach the dog slowly and quietly and allow the dog to sniff the back of the child’s hand – then gently pat the dog’s chest, sides or back. Dogs don’t generally like to be rubbed on their heads. Keep your face away from the dog and never stare into its eyes. For very small dogs, your child may need to kneel down, keeping the top half of the child’s body straight and not bend over the dog.

• Tell your child it’s a big no-no to sneak up on a dog that is eating or sleeping. If a dog is eating, your child must wait until he has moved away

from the feed area before approaching him. If the dog is sleeping, your child needs to stand back and call the dog out of his bed if they wish to give him a cuddle.

• Puppies! Never allow your child pick up a puppy. Mummy dogs are very protective of their babies, just as humans are, and may bite the child if she thinks they will hurt them.

•Make sure your child doesn’t approach or pat a dog that has his head sticking out of a car window. It’s likely the animal is protecting and defending what he perceives as his space.

For more information, log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie

18 GAZETTE 28 April 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs VW GROUP GROWS TO RIVAL TOYOTA:

V O L K S WA G E N has reported that its first quarter delivery of new cars rose by 13.7% to a record 1.97 million vehicles. VW also reported record deliveries for March, with sales of more than 767,200 cars, up 8.1% from a year ago.

VW aims to pass Toyota as the world’s best-selling car brand by 2018.

In 2010, VW group sold a record 7.14 million units, ranking it third behind General Motors with 8.39 million and Toyota with 8.42 million.

The Germanbased company has reported that car sales growth in regions such as China, India or Russia produced a strong performance.

The company’s core VW brand sold 1.23 million cars between January and March, a rise of 10.4%.

The new BMW X1 xDrive28i uses the first of the new generation four-cylinder petrol engines to give improved acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, taking just 6.1 seconds, as well as a 16% improvement in fuel economy. Inset: The BMW-designed electric motor, which will be used in BMW electric cars in the future. The motor is claimed to be over 90% efficient and produces in excess of 160bhp for fast acceleration

Impressive engines MICHAEL MORONEY visits the BMW headquarters in

Munich, where he got a glimpse of things to come MWhas set a name for itself with its Efficient Dynamics technology that has boosted diesel engine performance far ahead of where people would have believed possible 10 years ago.

I was in Munich last week to hear and discuss with BMW engineers where the next move will be.

There were three areas where BWM focused on during what they call their annual Innovation Day. These were new engine designs, the development of the electric car and new lightweight car components.

The target remains the same – giving enhanced driving pleasure in quality cars consistent with reduced fuel consumption. That’s the basis of the Efficient Dynamics concept and development director at BMW, Dr Klaus Draeger, said that this remains true as

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the core principle of the company.

The big news was the announcement of a complete new line-up of engines that will be fitted to BMW cars in three to four years time. BMW has invested €300 million in this new enginedesign concept that will give them huge savings through new economies of scale.

BMW expects that, while the move to electric cars will accelerate, the sales of electric or even hybrid cars will not be more than 20% of the total market.

That’s why the company continues to put a lot of effort into to increasing the lead that the Efficient Dynamics approach to conventional car engine design has given them. That has been confirmed by the fact that, in 2010, and for the sixth time in a row, the BMW Group was named the most sustain-

able automobile manufacturer in the world by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index.

There will be a new family of three, four and six-cylinder engines in diesel and petrol format, all using the same basic design. This will mean common parts, such as engine structures and fittings, even pistons and camshafts, making engine assembly easier, and bringing big savings in terms of economies of scale.

But the changes are not big enough to expect a drop in prices, according to the company; it will be more of a situation where they will give better economy and performance without increasing the prices into the future.

These new engines will feature a new BMW TwinPower turbo-charging system that ensures more power and lower fuel consumption in both

petrol- and diesel-fuelled cars. We had an opportunity to take a short test drive in the first of these new engines, a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that was fitted to the new X1. In the new BMW X1 xDrive28i, this engine has improved the acceleration of the vehicle from zero to 100 km/h, taking just 6.1 seconds. The new engine delivers 245bhp.

This is over 70bhp more powerful than BMW’s previously most powerful four-cylinder engine.

The engine produced a huge level of torque for a petrol engine and even more impressive is the fact that it does so at a low 1250rpm engine speed.

BMW claims that the new TwinPower Turbo engine even surpasses a BMW six-cylinder engine in terms of response and pulling power.

On the electric car front BMW has created

what it calls a new subbrand, called the Megacity vehicle. The company will have two models on offer in 2013, a full electric car, the i3, and a plug-in hybrid petrol car, the i8x.

BMW told us that they are developing their own electric motors, voltage invertors and high voltage storage systems. The aim is to develop a system that achieves flexibility for future hybrid and electric vehicles.

Each battery storage unit of the future BMW hybrid or electric vehicle comprises a different number of modules, which in turn, each consists of a specific number of battery cells.

These are interconnected in series in order to match the power and energy capacity needs of each vehicle.

The new lightweight technology being planned for future BMW cars aims to cut the over-

all weight of the cars.

That, too, will improve fuel economy. Plastics are going to be used to a greater extent, along with carbon fibres, some developed from agricultural crops, to produce vehicle body panels and insulation materials that incorporate new types of resins that make them strong, yet light.

BMW is researching every aspect of the cars for the future to make them more sustainable in terms of economy and easier to build in a process that causes less lasting damage to the environment.

T hat means using products in their manufacture that can be grown within Europe.

These of their own accord can mean new opportunities for farm crops and some of the materials show during the Innovation Day provided real evidence of this.

28 April 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 28 April 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs Skoda sponsors Tipperary GAA SKODA is the new GAA sponsor of Tipperary GAA. The three-year sponsorship agreement, which begins following the 2011 National Leagues, will see Skoda Ireland invest approximately €200,000 into the Premier County per annum. As part of this sponsorship agreement, Skoda and Tipperary GAA officially unveiled the new 2011 Jersey at Croke Park on April 19. AllIreland Hurling Champions Eoin Kelly, Brendan Cummins, Padraic Maher and Conor O’Mahony were on hand to showcase the new strip and discuss Tipperary hurler’s prospects of defending theirAll Ireland crowns as the 2011 championship season approaches. The full sponsorship of Tipperary GAA covers both the hurling and football codes and includes all grades from minor to senior inter-county teams over the next three years. As part of the sponsorship agreement, the new-lookTipperary jersey was unveiled displaying the Skoda brand name.

Pictured at the announcement is Ray Leddy, marketing manager of Skoda Ireland, centre, with Tipperary hurling manager Declan Ryan, left, and Tipperary football manager John Evans

MERCEDES BENZ IN TALKS ON FUEL CELLS: MERCEDES BENZ is involved in a partnership with Renault and Nissan to develop new fuel cell technology for cars for the future. This comes a year after both companies formed a global alliance in which both companies swapped stakes in each other to co-operate on the development of small cars, commercial vehicles and future engine systems.

FIAT WANTS A CROSS-OVER NOT A GOLF: FIAT hopes that reshaping the Bravo hatchback

into a crossover will lead to a surge in European sales.

Fiat has decided to replace its slowselling Bravo compact hatchback with an all-new high-roof cross-over inspired by the popular Nissan Qashqai.

Fiat had originally planned to relaunch the Bravo as a rival the Volkswagen Golf, which is Europe’s bestselling car. The current Bravo and Qashqai were both launched in Europe in 2007. Their sales results were close at first but last year the Qashqai outsold the Bravo by a 5-to-1 margin (216,091 to 44,850).

The new Volkswagen Beetle is built to be one of the safest cars on the road, thanks to features such as standard ESP and six airbags

New VW Beetle goes back to its roots VOL K S WAGE N unveiled the latest generation Beetle at the Shanghai Motor Show in a style that moves away from design of the New Beetle of 1998.

This latest generation Beetle draws on cues from the original.

This new Beetle, due here later this summer, is longer, wider and lower, giving a more masculine and dynamic appearance.

The Beetle now measures 4,278 mm in length (+152 mm), 1,808 mm in width (+84 mm) and 1,486 in height (-12 mm).

The track width front and rear, as well as the wheelbase at 2,537 mm, is also increased.

The car’s new proportions mean the roof extends back further, the windscreen is shifted back and the rear section is now more akin to that of the origi-

nal Beetle.

The boot capacity is a practical 310 litres, up from 209 litres in the 1998 model. The Beetle has four seats, with a split-fold rear seat for added versatility.

Inside the cabin, the Beetle’s designers created a modern, practical and distinctive appearance with easy to identify and ergonomic controls.

Certain features, such

as the glove box and colour accent panels, hark back to the original.

Three trim levels will be available – Beetle, Design and Sport – and each will have its own individual character and features. There will be a wide range of optional equipment available.

It is expected that, in Ireland, there will be a choice of four engines: three petrol – a 1.2-litre TSI 105bhp,

a 1.4-litre TSI 160bhp and a 2.0-litre TSI 200bhp; and one diesel – a 1.6-litre 105bhp with BlueMotion Technology. Thanks to the addition of Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems, the Beetle 1.6-litre 105bhp is estimated to have a combined fuel consumption of 23.8 km/litre (4.2l/100km) and a low CO2 emissions rating of 112 g/km.

Porsche returns to southside of the city PORSCHE has long been one of the most prestigious brands in the world and Porsche Centre Dublin is delighted to announce its return to South County Dublin, introducing some exceptional cars that are exclusive to this centre in Ireland.

Whether window-shopping or otherwise, you don’t even necessarily need to be a Porsche obsessive to appreciate the Porsche Boxster Spyder

PDK. This is the first and only car of its kind in the country, and now on display at Porsche Centre Dublin, Rochestown Avenue.

This new Porsche Service Centre retails the full range of Porsche Approved used cars and provides customers in the Republic of Ireland with the only authorised facility that caters for all Porsche aftersales requirements.

All Porsche-approved used

cars are inspected using a 111-point checklist and come with a 24-month, manufacturer-backed Porsche Approved Warranty, with no mileage limit, and a 24-month Porsche Assistance policy, offering Europe-wide breakdown assistance.

Experience Brand manager Ryan O’Connell, has a wealth of experience with the Porsche brand and

is one of the most experienced Porsche experts in Ireland having overseen an impressive 350 deliveries to Porsche customers across the country.

Porsche Ser vice Centre Dublin is located at Joe Duffy Ltd, just off exit 16 of the M50 at Rochestown Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.

Customers can contact the Porsche Centre Dublin on 01 2353375 or by email at info@ porschedublin.ie.

28 April 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Graham Costigan, general manager, Room To Room

Furnishing what customers want DUCA Furniture, trading as Room To Room, started business more than 10 years ago as a furniture wholesaler.

Given the tough economic conditions prevailing in the country, the company decided to take their furniture directly to the public, with a benefit for the customer being the excellent value the company says it offers all year long.

Talking to the Gazette this week, general manager Graham Costigan told us about his career and the company.

“I was born what seems like an eternity ago in Dublin, I spent seven years living in Germany, and came back to Ireland 12 years ago.

“Since leaving school (Joey’s in Fairview) I’ve run pubs, an accounts department and a freight company before joining Duca Furniture about a year ago.

“I enjoy work, golf, travel, a couple of drinks now and then and relaxing with [partner] Karen, but not necessarily in that order!” Graham says.

“Duca Furniture started business over 10 years ago as a furniture wholesaler.

Based on the outskirts of Dundalk, we have a state-of-the-art 75,000 sq ft warehouse facility. Our showrooms in Santry, Fonthill and Leopardstown are decked out in the best of furniture.

“We sell quality and pride ourselves on this. There are plenty of furniture retailers, but we feel we have some of the

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS DECIDING ON PAYING PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS Q – My new employer will pay 5% into my defined contribution pension if I match it. I am only 26 – do I have to agree to this, or can I put it off until I am at least in my thirties? Mary – Stillorgan A - THERE are currently more than 420,000 Irish citizens over the age of 65 and, by the year 2050, there will be 1.8 million citizens over this age.

By 2026, a total of 767,300 such citizens are expected, meaning that 16 years from now, more than 16% of the population will be in retirement.

Another fact is that half of the current earning population of Ireland does not have a pension. They are obviously hoping that the State Pension (which is currently €230.30 per week) will be enough to tide them over at that stage, AND that the Government will still have

Graham Costigan, general manager at Room To Room

the funds to be able to pay it when they reach retirement age.

best furniture out there. And, as we’re a wholesaler by trade, the price is fair as there is no middle man.

“We stock most of the floor items and have a wide range of customised furniture. Why not slip by if you’re in the market?”

According to Graham, Room To Room don’t mark up prices to enable them to mark down in a fake sale.

The company is keen to promote its core belief of providing the customer

with an excellent level of service and quality at a fair price.

Room To Room carries stocks of leather, bedroom, dining and occasional furniture, with most of these items available for immediate delivery.

Added to the its extensive range of custom-made fabric suites, the company believes it has something to suit every taste and every pocket.

Customers can find all of the company’s details at www.roomtoroom.ie

With the pension funds being decimated over the last few years, and the ageing population ambivalent about saving for their retirement, something had to give.

The Government, through the recent National Pension Framework plan, has addressed this issue and, by 2014, all employees and employers will eventually have to contribute to a pension fund of some sort, plus the retirement age will be raised gradually to age 68 in 2026, with one uniform standard rate of tax relief applied to all contributions – 20%, by 2014.

So, if you are currently on the higher rate of tax, it will certainly be worth your while making that 5% contribution, as your employer is also making a 5% contribution.

This is a win-win situation for you, while you are never

Q&A

too young to start a pension!

Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be?

A: I wanted to be a foot-

Q: What part of your job do you dislike the most?

A: Doing the accounts –

baller.

boring.

Q: What was your first job?

A: I worked in Dunnes in the northside, stacking shelves and sweeping floors.

Oh, how I miss those days ...

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: It was from the same place.

Q: How many people do you have to talk with every day?

A: Loads. Sometimes too many, sometimes not enough.

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: The greatest thrill is getting things organised and not having any problems with deliveries.

Q: What air carrier do you use when going on holidays?

A: Generally Aer Lingus or Ryanair, whichever is best value.

Q: What car do you drive?

A: I drive an old Audi.

Q: Can you swim?

A: I can, and try to, as much as possible.

Q: Would you ever bungee jump?

A: Nope; I don’t like heights.

Q: Do you play any sport?

A: I play golf.

Q: What is your favourite food and drink?

A: My favourite food is stew;

my favourite drink is coffee.

Q: Who would you like to have dinner with – Brian O’Driscoll or Brian Cowen?

A: Brian Cowen. I’d love to give him a slap up the side of the head.

Q: How many times a week do you go to the ‘hole in the wall’?

A: Way too often.

Q: How many times each year do you shop for clothes?

A: As seldom as possible. I don’t like shopping.

Q: What is the name of your favourite shop?

A: Room to Room, of course! But, really, it’s Macy’s in New York.

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: About 15, I think.

Q: Where is your favourite holiday destination?

A: Portugal.

Q: Have you ever met Brian Cowen?

A: Nope.

Q: What other job in the whole world would you really like to have?

A: A professional golfer; otherwise, I’m very happy with my work.

Q: When do you wish to retire?

A: As soon as I have the means to do so, comfortably.

Q: What will you do then?

A: I haven’t got a clue. I will read books and take it easy for a while, and just spend some time smelling the flowers – I don’t get a chance now.

Even at 20% tax relief, the full 10% contribution (5% from you and 5% from the employer) is only costing you a net 4% of your income.

Ask for a report each year from the trustees to ensure the fund is on course to pay you what the original estimates hope to.

Quite simply put, a pension is a must. It is a savings plan which attracts three specific tax breaks.

Firstly, tax relief on the contribution that you make to your pension at your marginal rate –in 2014, it reduces to 20%.

Secondly, tax-free growth in the pension fund.

And, thirdly, the availability of a tax-free lump sum, currently 25% of the fund, on retirement age, with a cap of €200,000.

Independent, authorised and experienced advice is essential, and it would be preferable to pay for it, to ensure that independence. Do it!

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@ moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

22 GAZETTE 28 April 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY CLONEE: RANGE OF APARTMENTS NOW ON SALE NEAR BLANCH

Ard Cluain hits the market

Allendale Glade offers three-bed living in D15

CLONSILLA: ASKING PRICE OF €204,950

Allendale is cosy in Clonsilla WILSON Moore have made a final reduction to encourage an immediate sale on No. 4, Allendale Glade, Clonsilla, Dublin 15, a stunning three-bedroom mid-terrace home in immaculate condition throughout and very well maintained by its present owners.

The accommodation consists of entrance hallway, living room, kitchen/dining area, guest wc /utility room, three-bedrooms (of which the master is en-suite) and a family bathroom.

To the rear is a good size garden with seeded lawn and conservatory.

Special features include a feature fireplace and coving in the living room with double doors leading to the dining area, cream-fitted kitchen with tiled splash-back and doors leading to a large conservatory; Egyptian Travertine flooring in the conservatory and semi-solid wood flooring throughout the ground floor. There are fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms, and the attic is fully floored with Stira stairs.

The property features a south-facing rear garden with outdoor tap and outdoor electricity sockets and is wired for outdoor lighting; gas heating, PVC windows and new PVC guttering and fascias, an alarm system and offstreet parking.

This property is conveniently close to the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre with all its amenities – schools, shops, N3 and M50 motorway, Clonsilla Train Station and, well serviced with an excellent bus route to the city centre. Viewings are by appointment only and can be arranged via Wilson Moore on 1890 808080.

THE ARD Cluain apartment complex in Clonee is now available for viewing by appointment through Wilson Moore Estate and Letting Agents.

The apartments feature professional, landscaped open areas and courtyard; high-speed lifts serve all floors from ground floor car parks, and there is an intercom entry system.

There is a a good electric specification, including each apartment has at least two telephone and TV points and an ample number of double sockets throughout. Smoke and heat detectors are fitted in each apartment and all units are wired for security alarms and downlighters in living room and

Ard Cluain apartments are on sale now

kitchen.

The bedrooms have high-quality fitted wardrobes, and the majority of the two-bedroom apartments will have en-suites off the main bedroom.

Bathrooms feature high-quality, white sani-

tary ware, as well as floor and wall tiles to dado rail height throughout all the bathrooms and en-suites as per show apartments.

Chrome towel rail, toilet roll holder and large fitted vanity mirrors, as per the show apartments,

and thermostatically controlled high-pressure showers. All apartments are covered by a ten-year Homebond scheme.

This apartment development is situated just off the N3, within easy access of the M50 motorway, with Dublin city centre only a short distance away.

The selection of amenities within walking distance include various restaurants, pubs and a wide choice of shops. A variety of sporting facilities are available in the vicinity, including the conveniently situated Clonee Tennis club right next door.

There is a choice of local golf courses as well as horse-riding facilities

close by and numerous sport clubs.

The Blanchardstown Shopping Centre, with its own multiplex cinema and extensive range of retail outlets, is only a short drive away.

This impressive development has two attractive courtyards with designer-landscaped open spaces.

Ard Cluain is a onestop-shop and offers first-time buyers and investors an opportunity to secure both real value and top-class quality in one simple step.

Viewings are by appointment and can be arranged via Wilson Moore on 1890 808080.

RATHMORE, MEATH: FIVE-BEDROOM LUXURY HOME FOR €595,000

A designer home at a price to dream on CARTY Properties have brought Carraig Rua, Rathmore, in Co Meath, to the market once again with a significant reduction to the price, making what is already an elegant spacious home even more attractive to potential buyers.

Carraig Rua, on the market for an asking proce of €595,000, is a detached, dormer-style residence standing on approximately 0.6 acre of landscaped grounds w i t h a n i m p r e s s i ve entrance. The property itself is nestled in scenic surroundings.

This designer home extends to c 3,200 sq ft and offers generous proportions, an abundance of natural light with attention to quality and detail.

The kitchen, living and dining rooms are interconnected and all

have French doors leading onto patio areas.

The property comprises entrance hall with a double hardwood front door with leaded glass panels, recessed lighting and porcelain-tiled flooring, a lounge with a nine-foot ceiling, a raised feature fireplace with granite hearth, a large, bow-style window, and solid oak timber flooring.

T he dining/family room has a mahogany fireplace, large bowstyle window and steps down to the kitchen/ living room, which features built-in wall and floor cherry units, complete with stainless steel sink, pull-out larder, built-in double oven, electric hob, integrated dishwasher and fridge freezer, with a large centre island.

There is also a utility

Carraig Rua in Rathmore, Co Meath is on the market for €595,000

room and shower room.

There are five wellproportioned bedrooms, the main being en suite, with a mixture of carpeted and wooden floors, and built-in wardrobes. The family bathroom has a jacuzzi bath, with velux window and recessed lighting.

The location is second

to none as it is within walking distance of Rathmore church and school while Athboy, Kells and Navan towns are only minutes away with their wide choice of educational, leisure and shopping amenities. The property is less than 10 minutes to the new M3 access point. This pro-

vides an easy commute to Dublin making this an ideal home for families looking for a serene, idyllic country location while offering a wealth of amenities close at hand.

For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Carty on 046-9486860, or see www.carty.ie.

28 April 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 23

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel

The impressive cliffs of Moher are only one of the many attractions in Co Clare

HOLIDAYS AT HOME: A VAST OFFERING IN ENNIS BEYOND THE BURREN

Much Moher than just cliffs in Ennis BARRY HARTIGAN

T’S only when you get to see the Cliffs of Moher for yourself do you truly realise how breathtaking they really are.

The famous tourist attraction has featured in a number of films, including The Princess Bride, and has even made an appearance on the small screen in an episode of Father Ted, but you really should try to see them for yourself.

The cliffs are in the final 28 of the New Seven Wonders of Nature competition and, once you view them, it’s not hard to see why.

The reason for my trip to Co Clare was an invitation from the Old Ground Hotel in Ennis to visit the hotel on the 50th anniversary of its opening and to sample the delights of the town and surrounding county.

Ennis is the very definition of the term “picture postcard” and it’s not

I

hard to see why it won the Tidy Towns competition in 2005 and placing second in 2008. It’s very picturesque, with narrow winding streets and it still maintains the feel of the market town it once was.

There is still a market in operation each Saturday, albeit somewhat reduced in size, and there was quite a range of stalls on offer the weekend I visited.

Saturday morning was spent on a walking tour of Ennis, and a very pleasant spot it is to amble around. The centre, made up of medieval streets and laneways, give it a small town feel.

However, Ennis actually has a population of around 25,000 making it the largest town in Munster and the sixth largest town in Ireland.

I found several fine book stores to browse in while the women on the trip were more than happy with the number of shoe and clothing stores that Ennis has to offer.

The Old Ground Hotel

itself dates back to the early part of the 18th Century when it was built as a private dwelling and, in 1895, it was transformed into a hotel.

It has had a very chequered past and Sinn Fein used the premises as their campaign headquaters from 1917 onwards.

One of the more interesting parts of its history is the fact that, in 1936, famed pilot Charles Lindberg stayed at the hotel while scouting for locations to open a transatlantic gateway.

Today the hotel has a wonderful combination of both old and new and, while the public areas have a pleasant ‘olde world’ feel, it also boasts all mod cons.

The hotel’s Town Hall restaurant is clearly one of the most popular in Ennis as it was packed the night we dined there.

Without going into elaborate details about the food all I will say was that I enjoyed one of the finer meals there that I have eaten in recent years.

I f y o u f a n c y g e tting some exercise and fresh air this spring the hotel is offering walking weekend breaks around the Burren. The Saturday consists of a full day guided walk from Black Head to the Burren Coast taking in stunning vistas of Galway Bay, Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands and the majestic, rocky Burren itself.

Sunday is a gentle halfday walk in the Burren National Park, one of the last great uncontaminated landscapes in Ireland, and includes the ascent of one of the country’s most eccentrically shaped hills, Mullaghmore, as well as interestesting sights off a famine relief ef road, herds of feral goats,, and the seasonal Tu r l o u g h lake. The weekends also coincide de with the world-famous orld-famous wildflower season in

the Burren so there will be beautiful blooms all around.

There are three walking weekends to choose from, taking place on April 29, May 6 or May 13.

The two-night break, including two nights luxurious accommodation with full Irish breakfast both mornings, a fivecourse dinner on the evening of your choice, a packed lunch and the guided walks (including transfers) is just €195 per person sharing, subject to availability.

For further information check http://www. flynnhotels.com/Old_ Ground_Hotel_Ennis/ Welcome .

A killer of a night out in Louth at murder weekend in Darver Castle DARVER Castle, Ardee, Co Louth, is hosting A Knight of Murder by Murder Mysteries Ireland on Saturday, May 7. This entertaining medieval murder dinner show starts with budding detectives being greeted by the show’s shady cast at the welcome reception.

Keeping their eyes peeled for clues, guests will then enjoy a sumptuous four-course dinner with wine as a murder is played out in the castle’s banqueting hall.

After the killer is caught everyone can dance the evening away and enjoy the late bar.

Tickets for A Knight of Murder are €65 per person, there is a group booking discount available for bookings of 10 seats and over. Fancy dress is not essential but preferred to help you get into the spirit of things.

Sleuths can also stay in the Castle’s guesthouses for €100 for two sharing, including breakfast.

Contact info@darvercastle.ie for more details, and, to book your medieval murder mystery dinner show tickets, please call 085 2828 420 or book online at www.murdermystreriesireland.com.

US and Canadian tourism agents see Ireland’s offering first-hand OVER 30 top American and Canadian travel agents arrived in Galway last week to meet with representatives of the Irish tourism trade to discuss business opportunities for the season ahead and looking beyond into 2012.

The agents represent high-end travel groups from across North America and Canada and have delivered significant amounts of business to Ireland over recent years.

Speaking after the event, Gillian Binchy, trade marketing manager at Fáilte Ireland said: “Events like these provide wonderful opportunities for overseas agents to come and taste the culture and heritage of Ireland for themselves, and has such a key role in encouraging these agents to consider Ireland as a holiday destination and promote Ireland to their customers.”

The workshop, which took place at the Ardilaun Hotel, provided valuable business and networking opportunities for the Irish trade at a fraction of the cost of an individual sales trip.

24 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 28 April 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Little Gem

Love, sex, birth, death, dildos and salsa classes: Little Gem sees three generations of Dublin women on a wild and constantly surprising journey.

April 29 and 30 at 8pm. Tickets: €15.20/€16.80/€19/€21.

The Pride of Parnell Street In a series of intercutting monologues, Janet and Joe chart the intimacies of their love and the rupturing of their relationship, as well as their enduring love affair with Dublin city itself. This is an intimate, heroic tale of ordinary and extraordinary life on the streets of Dublin.

May 3 to 7. Tickets from €15 to €23.

SEAMUS ENNIS CULTURAL CENTRE 01 802 0898 T with the Maggies Triona, Maighread, Mairéad and Moya, T with the Maggies, all come from the same corner of County Donegal and all have illustrious career histories. Each individual brings a unique and varied interpretation of their musical heritage.

April 29. Commences at 8:30pm. Admission: €25.

Ger Wolfe In the company of a new line-up of top-class players Edel Sullivan (violin), Paul Frost (double bass) and Richard Lucey (button accordion), the man who brought us The Curra Road will take us on an unforgettable musical adventure from older gems such as The Lark of Mayfield and No Bird Sang, to exciting new songs inspired by his time as writer in residence listening to the stories of the older members of the Muscrai Gaeltacht in Cork.

April 30 at 8:30pm. Admission: €16.

THE HELIX 01 700 7000 The Not So Grimm Fairytales All your favourite Grimm characters... Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, Tom Thumb, a handful of princesses, a whirlwind of witches and one weally, weally wicked wolf... are all brought to life in this energetic, colourful, laugh-aminute show, with music, surprises, a touch of magic and lots of fun for all the family.

April 30 and May 1. Tickets: €12.50.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 The Pajama Game

The story deals with labour troubles in a pyjama factory, where worker demands for a seven-and-a-half cents raise are going unheeded. In the midst of this ordeal, love blossoms between Babe, the grievance committee head, and Sid, the new factory superintendent.

May 3 to 7. Admission: €18/€15

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Hot Mikado

This hilarious musical comedy is a 1940’s style update of Gilbert and Sullivan’s, The Mikado, and features highenergy dance routines with great vocal arrangements of blues, swing, hot gospel and scorching torch songs.

April 28 to 30 at 8pm. Tickets €21.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Vladimir and Classical Twist Vladimir’s main musical focus at the moment is his small ensemble, Classical Twist, (two violins, viola, double bass, piano and drums) and their wonderful fusion of classical music, jazz, pop & rock. From Bach to Bowie and from Mozart to the Rolling Stones via Lynard Skynyrd, Classical Twist puts a fresh, contemporary spin on some of the greatest melodies ever written. Classical Twist’s inventive and dazzling musicianship and rhythmic arrangements are delivered with verve in an accessible and approachable style.

May 5 at 8pm. Admission: €18 and €16 concession.

Fred (James Marsden) finds himself looking out for EB (Russell Brand); the runaway son of the Easter Bunny who’d rather be a drummer in LA than take over his father’s job of running Easter each year. But Easter Island needs EB to come home, quick – or a coup d’egg-tat could occur ...

A bunny awful film ...

Another week, and another sub-standard CG film leaves Kate hopping mad, thinking ‘Up’ never seemed so far away Q KATE CROWLEY

WELL folks, as the month of April prepares to dash out the door, quickly grabbing its coat and chucking a Gone Fishin’ sign in the window, it’s fair to say that the film industry has done pretty much the same thing.

Oh, sure, there are plenty of films trundling along towards Dublin’s screens, but not many of them are much cop, as April/May is traditionally the annual time for Gone Fishin’ fever to hit Hollywood’s head honchos, who start to hold back their bigger, “better” films until the summer season.

Why, just consider some of these films – “The Joy of Wicker”, “Go, Donkey, Go!”, “Escape from Luton”,“Charlie and the Lost Slinky”, “Grandma’s Got A Gramaphone”, “My Favourite Cheese” and “Too Many Bow Ties”.

I just made ’em all up, but they still sound like

FILM OF THE WEEK: Hop ++ (G) 94 mins Director: Tim Hill Starring: Kaley Cuoco, James Marsden, Russell Brand, Hugh Laurie, David “The Hoff” Hasslefhoff

OUR VERDICT: DIRECTOR Tim Hill was responsible for “Alvin And The Chipmunks” – four words designed to strike fear/rage into the soul of parents everywhere. And it shows, as Hop takes more-or-less the same formula of “adorable” cute CG animals having “zany” adventures with “goofy” adults to “hilarious” effect. The film is likely to feel like all stick, and no carrot, for viewers wishing to hop away ...

oddly plausible titles, compared to some of the Easter offerings rolling around out there.

Still, one such deliberate (and very real) Easter-related film is Hop; a family-friendly film that’s been on release for a couple of weeks now, yet which I thought would be better served by reviewing now.

After all, who isn’t filled with the joys of just-passed Easter at the moment?

Which, in Hollywood’s eyes, is nothing to do with anything vaguely religionconnected, but is all about cute ickle wabbits and

CG-enhanced romps, of course. Well, duh. And duh-at’s eggs-actly what Hop’s directors are keen for you to swallow, along with your gulps of chocolate, this Easter season.

The Easter Bunny (Hugh Laurie) has spent his life preparing his son, EB (Russell Brand) to step into his shoes, and carry on the family business of bringing the joy of Christm– err, Easter to the world, with lovely Easter baskets made at their busy Easter Island factory (where else).

However, once EB has all growed up a little

bit, the appeal of being the Easter Bunny versus, say, a rock drummer, has peeled away like the thin wrapping around an Easter egg, and he runs away from Easter Island to Los Angeles (again, where else), where a talking, drum-playing rabbit isn’t going to raise many eyebrows.

It isn’t long before EB crosses paths with Fred (James Marsden), who’s a bit of a shmuck, and yet is soon an unwilling minder of sorts for the wascally wabbit, who knows very well that dad has dispatched an elite ninja rabbit squad to find his son, and drag him back home.

Of course, if EB doesn’t come home, someone else will have to step into making sure that Easter runs smoothly, and a long-suffering Easter Chick, Carlos (Hank Azaria) may finally have the chance to take over running Easter.

Actually, by this point it all starts to get a little

convoluted, as the likes of Hugh Hefner, David “The Hoff” Hasslehoff and Brand, in a live-action cameo, start adding to the mix.

They, and the Easter Bunny, rabbit ninjas, cunning chicks and a coup d’egg-tat all combine to create what’s probably supposed to be a sweetly charming film, yet is, perhaps, more than many viewers can stomach.

Sure, the animation is pretty nice, but the story is flat, flat, flatter’n tin foil, and Marsden’s mugging, coupled with a film that’s even less convincing of being anything to do with the meaning of Easter than the sight of a certain stunning cinema reviewer wearing rabbit ears, all combine to create a colourful mess.

Hop could be a perfect punishment to pack off older children to see, with younger siblings in tow, but otherwise, it’s more or less a bunny awful film.

28 April 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 25

Household fee instead of TV licence ADAM MAGUIRE

IN THE past, anyone who wanted to watch RTE One needed a television set and some kind of signal coming into the house, either via aerial, cable or satellite.

Today, all you need is a computer – or phone – and a half-decent internet connection.

This massive shift is causing a lot of problems for a lot of people, not least programme makers, who are finding it harder to sell adverts and bring in big audiences.

The effect of the trend is also being felt by the Irish Government, which is now trying to understand how it will impact on the TV licence fee.

If a household has a device capable of receiving television signals, the

though it does not require a licence to do so.

residents are obliged to pay the annual licence fee of €160.

This is the case even if they do not use the television, or watch public service broadcaster channels such as RTE on it.

How new technology gets around this As the definition of a “television” requires the device to pick up signals via an aerial, most types of computer and phone are excluded.

They can allow a user to watch TV in other ways – generally, over an internet connection – even

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Doomsday scenario At the moment, only a tiny minority of users have completely replaced their TVs for computer screens. However, it is a growing number.

If left ignored, there is a very real possibility that the amount of money being taken in via the licence fee will eventually become dangerously low, even though the number of television watchers has not dropped at all.

The solution ... ?

No decision has been made as to how this problem is to be solved, but the Government has suggested the introduction of a household charge instead of the licence fee, which will see every

house pay an annual rate, no matter what devices they do or do not own

The argument for This system would make the process cheaper for the Government, as there will be no need to have inspectors trying to prove a person has a TV set but no licence.

The argument against Some people do not have televisions, and this will unfairly force them to pay for something they get no benefit from.

When a decision will be made A review is currently under way to try to find a workable solution, and full recommendations are expected within the next few months.

HTC Desire S As the latest in a growing range of HTC’s “Desire” phones, the Desire S takes the best of its predecessor and makes t h e m even better.

With t h e original Desire being a really great phone, t h i s follow-up has a lot to live up to, but promises much in its specifications.

With a lighter, slimmer but stronger body, the phone looks and

feels great, while its 3.7inch screen is stunningly bright to look at.

It runs on Android, and is layered in HTC’s o w n “Sense” interf a c e , which is really easy to use and gives a user loads of information in a small space.

All of the features you would expect are there, and they are done extremely well – the phone also feels great to use, and its touchscreen is responsive and quick.

If there is a downside to the device, it would have to be its battery, which can struggle to last as long as you would like.

This can be put down to that super-bright screen, for a start, not to mention all the other bells and whistles stored within.

However, the battery is not so bad as to ruin the phone, and HTC have again come up trumps, showing they are the masters of Android.

The Desire S is a powerful competitor to anything its rivals have to offer.

The HTC Desire S is available on O2 and Meteor from €39.99.

Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

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26 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 28 April 2011

PLANNING NOTICE DUN LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL Permission is sought for the demolition of an existing fire damaged dwelling and the construction of a replacement dwelling at 37 Blackthorn Court, Sandyford, Dublin 18 by Mr. John Prendergast.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning Authority, County Hall, D n Laoghaire during its public opening hours.

A submission/observation may be made on payment of 20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the planning authority.

12424

PLANNING NOTICE DUN LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL Permission is saught for change of use planning permission from a quality retail and warehouse facility formally occupied

by Penta Products LTD to a retail, grooming facility, canine training and daycare area at Unit T2 Birch Avenue, Stillorgan Industrial Park, Sandyford, Dublin 18 by Positive Dog Training Dublin. The planning application my be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the planning authority, county hall, Dun Laoghaire during its public opening hours. A submission/observation may be made on payment of €20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date of application is received by the planning authority.

12429

PLANNING NOTICE DUN LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL We, Dermot Strong & Julie Whiriskey, intend to apply for permission for development at 9 Woodlawn Crescent, Churchtown Dublin 14.The development will consist of the demolition of existing single storey rear extension, Existing hipped roof to be partially removed and replaced with new gable roof, relocation of existing front entrance door, with new porch over, the construction of new kitchen, dining room, utility room and toilet on ground floor level, First floor level comprising of new office and study with new flat roof dormer and roof lights, conversion of existing attic, incorporating new flat roof dormers to front and rear of existing roof, providing new bedroom and bathroom with new roof light into existing attic and associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Dun Laoghaire during its public opening hours, a submission or observation may be made on payment of €20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the planning authority.

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28 April 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

SPORT AWARDS: GazetteSport’s April nominees are announced: Page 29

HOCKEY: LOCAL PLAYER SET TO TAKE PART IN EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP

Gormley gets real as Madrid side get ready STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

CLONSKEA man Ronan Gormley will become one of a rare breed next month when the Irish men’s hockey captain will contest the semi-finals of the EuroHockey League – the sport’s equivalent to the Champion’s League.

Gormley switched from Dublin-side Pembroke Wanderers last summer to play on a semi-professional basis in Madrid

with Club de Campo.

And last weekend they won both their last 16 and quarter-finals ties in the competition at the EHL’s KO16 stages in Amsterdam.

Ironically, he ended up facing his former club last Friday and swept to an 11-0 victory against the Dubliners, who had lost several Irish internationals to European clubs in the close season, as well as enduring injuries to Scottish star Paddy Conlon

and former Irish striker Gordon Elliott.

For Gormley, it was bittersweet. “It was tough playing against my old side. I played for them for 13 or 14 years but you come out to win. We’ve got objectives in the tournament and you have to think of it as another team.

“They’ve had a very tough year with the players that have left the club, eight or nine of the starting eleven, and a coach,

Ronan Gormley will be representing Club De Campo when they take their place in last four of the EHL

so they’ve done very well to push an Irish team into the last 16, so fair play to them “We aimed to start well, we didn’t quite achieve that and I think they won the first short corner but, once we got into our game,

we played some good hockey, put good moves together and played some three-touch stuff at a high tempo and managed to stick some goals in.”

That victory set up a quarter-final tie with Spanish rivals, Atletic Ter-

rassa, on Easter Sunday. A cagey affair, normal time ended 1-1, as did extratime leading to a penalty shoot-out, which was won 2-0.

It sets up a semi-final date in June with English club, Reading, who

feature Irish player Chris Cargo and is a challenge Gormley cannot wait to meet: “Every match now is do-or-die, there’s top teams involved so it will be tight margins. We’ll fight for every ball and see where it takes us.”

28 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 28 April 2011

GazetteSport Sport Rugby

FastRugby

EUROPEAN CUP: COLLEGE PLAYERS SHINE IN INTERNATIONAL

Martin trophy match success for De La Salle THE annual match between De La Salle College, Churchtown’s senior cup team and the De La Salle Palmerston Under-19s, took place at Kirwan Park recently.

This was the sixth year that this longstanding fixture between both teams was contested, and the sides were competing for the Conor Martin trophy. Conor was a student at De La Salle College Churchtown, who died tragically of sudden adult death syndrome aged 16, he was also a member of De La Salle Palmerston.

As always the game was played in a great spirit, with the DLSP winning on the night by 24 points to 10.

The trophy will now reside in Kirwan Park for the year having spent the last two years at De La Salle College in Churchtown.

Pictured above is Josh O’Rourke, De La Salle Palmerston Under-17 player, and a current represetative on the Ireland club team and Leinster youths, receiving the Conor Martin Cup from Conor McCormick, director of rugby at DLSP, with the principal of De La Salle College, Churchtown, Tim Sheehan.

Blackrock College’s Mark Roche in action for Ireland against England. The side claimed victory over their rivals in France last week

Locals give Ireland boost FIRA AER U-18 FINAL Ireland England

17 8

sport@gazettegroup.com

BLACKROCK College’s Conor McEllin, Gavin Thornbury and Mark Roche helped Ireland’s schools team to European glory last weekend when they got the better of England.

Indeed, McEllin got the boys in green on top early on in Saturday’s final in Tarbes, when he crossed for a 26th-minute try.

Talismanic captain Luke McGrath was hugely influential again, distributing well and keeping the English defence on its toes. He kicked two early penalties, settling early nerves and the Irish were 11-3 ahead at half-time.

England’s heavier pack

had an advantage in the scrum but Ireland were sharper in most other facets of the game. Their decision-making, composure in possession and ability to take the right option time and again helped them maintain their lead in muggy conditions at Stade Maurice Trelut.

McGrath struck two more penalties to stretch the margin to 14 points and although English prop Alec Hepburn got over for a late unconverted try, nothing could take the gloss off what was an accomplished display from these young Irish players.

The victory avenged a 29-12 qualifier loss to England at Donnybrook back in December, and saw Terry McMaster’s

charges follow up on their terrific semi-final win over tournament hosts France.

It was Ireland’s fourth time to reach the final (they lost to France in 2007, 2008 and last year), but this was the first year that the Schools’ team competed in the Championships instead of the clubs fifteen.

Two well-struck penalties from McGrath had the Irish leading 6-0 after 11 minutes, his second effort a tremendous kick from just inside the English half.

From a quick turnover, McGrath scampered away and his offload was agonisingly knocked on

by McEllin with the tryline at his mercy.

But with Ireland moving the ball well, centre

Chris Farrell did well to draw a tackle and pass for McEllin to twist his way over in the right corner, despite the presence of three defenders.

McGrath’s conversion attempt shaved the post and, two minutes later, a ruck offence allowed Henry Slade left-foot England’s opening points from 40 metres out.

Coming up to half-time Ireland continued to take the game to England and tackle tigerishly, with Dan Leavy, Thornbury and the tireless Roche getting through a huge amount of work.

Down 11-3 at the break, England enjoyed a good spell of possession early in the second half but committed tackling from Gordon Frayne and company kept them out of scoring

range.

A deliberate knockon from English captain Dominic Barrow gave the Irish a penalty inside the 22, and McGrath’s 58thminute strike stretched the lead to 14-3.

McGrath coolly slotted another penalty and, with eight minutes left on the clock, Ireland were on the cusp of a famous win.

14 - m a n E n g l a n d launched a late comeback bid, but poor handling and indecision cost them at times, but they finally made the breakthrough in the 67th minute.

Replacement Will Hooley had a chance to make it a seven-point game, but his left-sided conversion attempt was never on target and Ireland deservedly held on for a title-winning finish to the season.

28 April 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 29

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CARR has been in stellar form for both Swords RFC and for the Dublin Eagles rugby league side at local level, and has represented Ireland in league colours at several levels, being picked for RLI’s Four Nations campaign in Scotland this month

SWORDS tennis star Cluskey has been on a roll this month, his outstanding performances on the ITF Futures tour netting doubles victories in Liechtenstein and Switzerland with playing partner, Frenchman, Fabrice Martin

PARALYMPIC pool legend Malone received another Olympic accolade to add to his medal haul this month when he was named as the team manager for Ireland’s swimmers for their London 2012 Paralympic Games campaign.

+ TEAMof the

The Mens’ Championship is open to men with a handicap of 18-or-under, and the Ladies’ Championship to ladies with a handicap of 28-or-under.

Entry costs just €55 to cover competition fees and green fees for the entire tournament.

The first round will be played in August through the following months to a final in April.

Entry can be made by sending the entrance fee, name, address, mobile phone number, e-mail address, club and handicap to Castle Golf Club, or via e-mail at info@ castlegc.ie. For more information, contact Castle Golf Club on 4904207

asdf asdf sa dfdsasd fdas fdasf dasdfd Softball Ireland call for new recruits

MONTH

COLAISTE IOSAGAIN

CLONDALKIN RFC

DUBLIN LIONS

COLAISTE Iosagain’s young footballers claimed the first All-Ireland title for a Dublin school at this level when they defeated Holy Rosary College of Galway to be crowned the Senior B Second Level Colleges champions in Roscommon

CLONDALKIN ladies’ rugby team made history when they defeated a tough Edenderry outfit to claim the club’s first ever womens’ trophy at the home of nearby rivals, Barnhall, in the Leinster championship

DUBLIN Lions’ basketball club made club history this month when all three of their senior mens’ teams became champions in the Men’s Top 4s competition at the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght

WELCOME to the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, as we mark our local sportsmen and women’s April sporting achievements across the capital and, indeed, across the nation.

With spring’s awakenings making way for summer sun, we’re delighted to once again

be able to celebrate the finest achievements in Dublin sport, with some huge efforts at local levels coming to our attention in a variety of wellknown, and some less prominent sports.

Ever y form of sporting achievement, at any level and in any sport, is valuable and

gives an impression of the diversity of sporting commitment there is around our fair city at all times of the year.

Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars.

Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes in the month of May, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/gazettesport.

You can also check out the latest stories from GazetteSport at our new website, www.gazettegroup.com

for the sport, and they are keen to recruit new players to this burgeoning, inclusive sport.

Softball is a unique and social sport for players of all ages, genders and abilities. It caters for every level and standard of player from those wanting a recreational knockaround to those wishing to compete at the highest level of international competition.

There are some 30 teams playing across Dublin at present, and for those who are interested in finding out more information about the sport, and about joining a club in their local areas, can do so at Softball Ireland’s website, http:// www.softball.ie

300 wds

THE softball season for 2011 commenced recently with an allday start-of-season blitz held at ALSAA Sports Grounds.

All money raised on the day was to assist the National Squad in their fundraising for attending the European Championships later this year.

For anyone interested in playing softball, teams are looking for new recruits at any time.

Please check out www.softball.ie for information.

Softball Ireland is the national governing body

30 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 28 April 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Roche hopes for incidentfree races after crashes NICOLAS Roche is hoping to get a clean run of form in the coming weeks after an incident and accident-packed Classics series.

A mid-race crash in the Fleche-Wallone left him unable to finish last week and while he recovered for the Liege-Bastogne-Liege, the Dundrum man did not complete that course either.

It leaves him looking at the Tour de Romandie as an event where he can find some form ahead of this summer’s grand tours.

“Every race I see coming up, I hope is one of my goals. Unfortunately my form has not been picking up the way I’ve wanted and crashing every weekend has not been helping either.

“I’m definitely improving every week and I hope Romandie will be one of the races where I can at least have a bit of pleasure racing again.”

Asked whether his lack of finishes at this stage in the year may leave more in the tank come the third week of the Tour de France, Roche did not see it that way.

“I’m not sure it works out that way, mathematically. I’ve been working very hard to try and come back. I’ve more than 30 days racing under my belt, it’s roughly the same amount of days I had last year. I’m not sure that because I’m going slowly now, I’ll go quicker after.”

Ballyboden centenary book on sale BALLYBODEN Wanderers’ GAA club have put together a commemorative publication to mark the club’s centenary of the first match, and it is now available to purchase from any committee member.

It is also available from The Merry

Ploughboy in Rockbrook, Cost Cutters on Taylor’s Lane and Bugler’s Pub in Ballyboden.

The publication costs €5 each and all proceeds go to the club. For more information on the club, see Wanderers on Facebook at www. facebook.com, or contact Stephen on 0879789843 or via email to ballybodenwanderers @hotmail.com

LSL SUNDAY SENIOR 1: LATE GOAL SEALS POINTS FOR ROVERS

Broadford Rovers’ Under-12s enjoyed an Easter trip to Bolton Wanderers ground, the Reebok Stadium, as past of their break

Broadford go to Bolton sport@gazettegroup.com

BROADFORD Rovers U-12s enjoyed a trip to the Easter Sports Ball at the Gordon Banks’ School of Excellence in Stoke, following a training session at the Bolton Wanderers academy.

In the tournament, itself, they began Good Friday in style against Fenton FC, winning out 3-0, swarming all over their opponents straight from the kick-off.

With the matches 20 minutes long, it was important to get off to a quick start, and they did just that when Ian Leavey latched on to a good pass through the middle and

finished in great style.

The second soon followed from the same player, whose pace was causing the opposition a big problem.

With changes quickly made, as it was going to be a long day, and with temperatures in the mid-20s, the game settled down Rovers had it all to do as they threw everything at their opponents, but, despite their best efforts, they couldn’t find a way through and were caught with a sucker-punch when they conceded a second, leaving gaps at the back while they searched for the equaliser.

They found the going tougher in their second

It’s coming home: Platini hands over cup ahead of final THE handover of the UEFA Europa

league trophy took place in Dublin recently, when the prestigious cup was passed on from soccer legend and UEFA president, Michel Platini, to Lord Mayor of Dublin, Gerry Breen and FAI president Paddy McCaul at the Royal Hospital, Kilmainham.

The Europa Cup final takes place at the Aviva Stadium on May 18.

Picture: Ben Ryan

game against Dublin rivals, Lourdes Celtic, and were on the back foot early on.

Bradshaw was commanding the defence and it looked like they were going to hold out for a scoreless draw but, five minutes from the end, Rovers conceded a penalty. It was blasted over but Lourdes kept their focus and scored straight from the kick-off for a 1-0 victory.

Game three was played in sweltering conditions against another Dublin side, Shamrock Rovers.

Broadford star ted brightly but could not find a way through as the game swung from end to

end, both teams knowing the first goal was going to be crucial.

Unfor tunately for Broadford, it went against them when Shamrock converted a penalty. As the Ballinteer side piled forward in search of an equaliser, gaps were left at the back and Shamrock Rovers snatched a second for a 2-0 win.

Broadford bounced back, though, with a fine performance against South Moorlands, showing their determination to battle to the end. They had their opponents pinned back straight from the off and were rewarded when Conor Empey finished to the net following a fine

move down the right hand side. The Dubliners continued to press and Gavin Worthington scored with a fine left-foot strike to the bottom corner.

Six points from four games wasn’t enough to make the semi-finals, but Rovers still had a play-off game to look forward to with Lourdes.

One goal was always going to decide this as, after a long hot day, both teams struggled to find their earlier form in the hot conditions.

Unfortunately for Rovers, it went to Lourdes in the last few minutes, and Rovers couldn’t find the energy to fashion an equaliser.

28 April 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 31

in association with

HURLING: BALLYBODEN CLAIM BYRNE CUP AT KEVIN’S

CLUB NOTICEBOARD BALLINTEER ST JOHN’S LOT TO results: Numbers drawn

P l e a s e l e t yo u r n e i g h b o u r s ,

were 8, 9, 12 and 22. There was no

friends, relatives know and encour-

winner.

age them to join in an enjoyable

Draw winners were Anne, Paddy Kiernan, €100, Alan McKeown and Jane

Andrew, Ma g s , € 50. This

week’s draw will be for a whopping €14,200.

Tickets are available online at www.ballinteerstjohns.com.

Intermediate ladies’ team continued their winning start to the

social evening.

Sing-along in the bar every Tuesday night with Na Firbolg’s 10 pm.

Win €1,000. The club is running the Championship Forecast competition again this year.

Forecast sheets are available from the club website, team mentors and in the bar.

league with a fine away win over St

Entry fee is €20, and all entries

Sylvester’s. This week they take on

must be returned by Friday, May

Skerries in Marlay Park. All support

13.

welcome.

Bingo every Monday night from 8.30pm.

As this is one of our main fund raising events in the club this year, your support is most welcome.

BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S Ballyboden St Enda’s celebrate their victory in the Dermot Byrne Cup

Enda’s take cup in Good Friday final sport@gazettegroup.com

B A L LY B O D E N S t Enda’s minor B hurlers enjoyed a Good Friday to remember when they claimed the annual Dermot Byrne Cup, hosted

by Kevin’s hurling club in Dolphin’s Barn, giving Conor McHugh the honour of raising the silverware.

Played in an 11-a-side, ten-minute halves format with two points for placed-ball scores, Boden impressed as they made it out of their group with St Jude’s and Lucan Sarsfields.

Two Chris Lambert goals, as well as a further three-pointer from Ben McEntee, gave Boden a 3-4 to 0-4 lead at the break against Lucan.

T h e We s t D u b l i n team had a better second half, but with Jonathon O’Driscoll slotting over three fees, Boden eventually winning out on a scoreline of 3-10 to 0-9.

Lucan edged their tie with Jude’s, leaving

Boden in pole-position and, once again, a quick start from their Tymon North neighbours proved vital, with Evan Flanagan netting from corner forward.

Boden led 1-5 to 0-2, a feature of the half being excellent tidying up by half-back McHugh.

The Jude’s fightback was swift and they led going into the closing minutes, having netted twice to edge in front.

But great defending

by Conor Bolger led to a clearance upfield.

Conor Maher got his hand to the ball and rounded his marker to finish with style to the net and grab a 2-6 to 2-5 win.

The benefit of topping the group was that Boden had a break while the quarter-finals were played out, Kevin’s also topped their group and both awaited the quarter-finals between St Jude’s and Round Towers and St Peregrine’s and Lucan.

Boden faced Jude’s

once more and again the start was key, goals from Maher and Lambert helping them to 3-6 to 0-5 lead. Jude’s stormed back but Fionn Maguire grabbed the lead once more to take a final 3-10 to 2-10 victory.

Lucan made it through to the final, and, in another repeat of the group-stage battles, the 12th Lock side started brightly, firing over three unanswered points from play.

But Boden were steadied by a brace of O’Driscoll frees and when the same player goaled, it set the match

up nicely as the teams went in at the interval square at 1-7 to 0-10.

Again, Lucan nudged in front by four points in the second half but, as the match headed for the final whistle, a point

by McKenna and an O’Driscoll free left the minimum in it.

A Lucan free put three in it but O’Driscoll again found the net to force extra-time and Boden stormed forward, O’Driscoll’s sideline cut building a fourpoint lead while Ben McEntee and a final O’Driscoll free meant Boden were the victors, 2-17 to 0-19.

TEAM of the week is the Minor B

and on Thursday night, the Inter-

hurlers who won the Easter tour-

mediate team plays St Finian’s in

nament organised by Kevin’s. It

Balgriffin. See website.

was a great victory and, given the

Many thanks to Rathfarnham

close nature of all the matches, a

Credit Union and H&K International

very enjoyable day all round. Well

for sponsorship of U-14 hurling and

done to Ray, John and Eugene for

U-14B football Féile teams.

preparing team and to the parents who travelled in support.

Thanks to Kevin’s for organising a great tournament, and for the Byrne family in whose honour the cup is named.

The club extends its deepest sympathy to Rita Archbold and family on the death of her mother.

Senior football championship on Friday night against Thomas Davis

Well done to Ronan Sharkey who was voted DIT Fresher Hurler of the Year. Ronan plays in goals with the Junior A hurlers.

Best of luck to the lads on the Dublin Senior hurling squad on Sunday in the Allianz League Final.

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 3, 18, 12 and 21. Jackpot of €5,000 won by Gavin Duff. Five Match First 3 winners.

NAOMH OLAF CONGRATULATIONS to Keith Noonan

Olaf and Testicular Cancer. Admission

on being selected for the Dublin South

is €20 per person or €30 per couple.

U-15 football panel.

The first fight starts at 9pm sharp.

He made his debut last Saturday

Entertainment will be provided after-

morning in a trial match versus Kil-

wards by Sal Vitro, winners of Hard

dare at Thomas Davis GAA Club. Pho-

Rock Café Band of Bands.

tos have been uploaded to the website.

As most club members are aware Brendan McGlynn is compiling a thir-

The Gaelic4Mothers(G4M) pro-

ty-year history of the club, with the

gramme continues on Wednesday

intention of having it published later

nights at 7.30pm. No previous expe-

this year.

rience is required and our coaching

He now invites any club member who

staff will show you what to do. Con-

wishes to write an article, about any

tact Harry O’Crowley or Mags Kyne

aspect of club life, over the past thir-

Delaney for further info.

ty years, to contact him before April

Our G4Ms have been invited by Croke

30. If anyone has club photographs of

Park to play a mini game against G4Ms

interest, please contact him without

from a Meath club at half time in the

delay.

Dublin-Meath NFL Ladies Div 2 final

Congratulations to Gavin and Clau-

at Parnell Park on Saturday, May 7

dine Brown, on the birth of twins,

(throw-in 3.30pm).

Amber and Alexander. Congratula-

A Charity Boxing Night will be held in

tions also to Darragh and Eimear

the sports hall on Saturday, May 21.

Maxwell, on the birth of a daughter,

The proceeds will be shared by Naomh

Aoife, a sister for Shane.

ALL OF YOUR DUNDRUM SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

BODEN CELEBRATE: St Enda’s take title in Dermot Byrne Cup last weekend: P31

APRIL 28, 2011

SPORTS AWARDS: April nominees are announced: P29

GazetteSPORT

Ballyboden St Enda’s Conal Keaney will be looking to replicate his championship form of recent seasons in the opening match this weekend

Locals aiming for the summit in SFC Ballyboden St Enda’s and Kilmacud Crokes begin their 2011 odyssey this weekend as senior campaign begins STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

FRIDAY night lights will decide the early fate of Ballyboden St Enda’s and Kilmacud Crokes when the local winners of the last three editions of the Dublin Senior Football Championship begin their 2011 campaigns this weekend.

Boden are the first to hit the turf when they play Thomas Davis in O’Toole Park (Friday, 7pm) in a repeat of the 2009 third-round game, which played out as an impressive 1-13 to 0-10 victory for the Firhouse Road club.

It was one of the first signs they were a force to be reckoned with for the Dublin title, with Conal Keaney providing a masterclass with a run of 1-7.

His switch to concentrate on hurling, playing a central role in propelling the Dubs to their first National Hurling League final since the 1940s, means his participation could well

be restricted, with a battle against Kilkenny on the mind.

Michael Darragh MacAuley will be back in the harness, however, after the Dublin footballers’ league campaign came to a crushing end last Sunday in Croke Park.

Shane McGrath was the Thomas Davis star man in 2010 as they reached the third round of last year’s competition before becoming unstuck by St Jude’s, but local bragging rights in south-west Dublin are making this a tie to watch out for.

Crokes’ mission Kilmacud will be aiming for a third title in four years and will be wary of Blaine Kelly’s St Mary’s, the Saggart side showing a happy knack of reaching the last eight in recent times.

Last year, they endured a blow-out against St Vincent’s but the 2009 run, beating Vinnies that time round, is still very fresh in the mind

that they can produce a surprise.

Facing a Crokes’ side, which has their usual difficulties with getting a full panel together to train due to their glut of intercounty players at senior and U-21 level, makes them slightly vulnerable.

Paul Griffin has been on the comeback trail, though, while Kevin Nolan has been in good form in the National League.

How the ravages of a potentially long summer with Dublin affects their plans could have an impact, but they are once more among the sides to beat this year once more.

They begin their campaign in Parnell Park on Friday night at 8.30pm.

Ballinteer St John’s, meanwhile, have a tough tie against St Mark’s, fellow strugglers at the foot of AFL Division Two, as they look to get their season on track after a couple of tough weeks.

Their opening match in the competition is in O’Toole Park on Saturday at 3.30pm.