Dundrum

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Dundrum GAZET TE FREE

YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Celebrating DLR area’s cultural diversity P10

RECYCLE THIS COPY. KEEP DUBLIN TIDY.

October 20, 2011

DIGGING IN: Local secondary school turns the sod on its new premises P2

David’s delight: Happy to meet local voters SARAH Hanley was happy to pose

Football: Ballyboden set for quarterfinal challenge Page 32

for a picture with Senator David Norris when he visited Dundrum Town Centre last week. Senator Norris was in fine form as he canvassed Dundrum locals and shoppers for their vote in the upcoming election, as he did his best to engage with as much of the public as he could. After all, if there’s one thing the senator is well-known for, it’s how to be an engaging personality. Picture: Geraldine Woods

Full Gallery on Pages 8-9

Cycling: Orwell Wheelers medal at World Masters event Page 30

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 MOTORS ........................19 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Warning over bogus ‘Balally collectors’ ‘Pastoral centre is not using doorto-door collectors’

Q NATALIE BURKE

BOGUS fundraisers are preying on the local Sandyford community by falsely claiming to be raising funds for the new Balally Parish Pastoral Centre. Just days after An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, officially

turned the sod on the site of a new parish centre, local parish priest, Fr Dermot Lane, alerted parishioners during morning masses that bogus collectors were operating in the community. The second phase of the fundraising campaign for the much-needed new parish cen-

tre is now under way, and the Balally Parish is appealing to the public not to donate to the fraudulent collectors. “We want to highlight that we are not using this method of door-to-door fundraising,” said Brid Fitzgerald, parish administrator. Full Story on Page 3


2 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 20 October 2011

TRANSPORT: GET AROUND DLR WITH PEDDLE POWER

EDUCATION New site for the Rosemont Secondary school

Councillor supporting bike scheme Q GAZETTE STAFF news@gazettegroup.com

IN AN effort to promote tourism, reduce dependence on cars and the county’s carbon footprint, local Fianna Fail Councillor John Lahart was one of a number of councillors to support a motion to extend the Dublin Bikes Scheme to the villages of the county. In response to the motion, which was raised at the South Dublin County Council Meeting earlier this week, the Council said that, while the National Transport Authority have undertook the feasibility for the extension of the Dublin Bike Scheme, SDCC is currently preparing a coherent cycle plan for the area.

“It’s a very innovative scheme, and one I support and would like to see continue to move in circles out of the city, perhaps as far as Rathfarnham,” said Cllr. Lahart. “I would like to see the scheme eventually becoming a Dublin City and County bike scheme. I’ve seen the bikes being cycled to Knocklyon before, and think it has huge potential.” A land-use transport integration meeting is scheduled to take place between the Planning and Roads Departments and the NTA during the coming weeks, at which an update in respect of progress on the bike scheme feasibility will be sought and reported to the council.

Official Turning of the Sod Ceremony at Rosemont School, with Sandyford’s first Girls’ Secondary School. Picture: Geraldine Woods

Local councillor breaks ground for new school Q MICHAEL HANNAN

news@gazettegroup.com

AFTER a 16-year wait for planning permission, Blackrock’s Rosemont Secondary School celebrated getting the goahead for their new multimillion Euro premises in Sandyford, last week. Fine Gael Councillor Neale Richmond was on hand to turn the sod at the new site for the school, which its expected will cost €17m to complete and is relocating to the Eniskerry Road due to a shortage of space at its existing Blackrock premises. “The school in Blackrock has successfully relocated to Sandyford as they’ve outgrown their

building in Blackrock, which only had capacity for 102 students. After 16 years of trying to get a site, they secured a site two years ago off the Eniskerry Road.” The new school was expected to be open for business in September 2012 and the number of places available in the school will expand from 102 to 300. The ceremony for the blessing of the ground and turning of the sod was invite-only and was attended by 40 people. Afterwards, there were speeches and a presentation at the local community centre, which was attended by roughly 150 people. Speaking at the cer-

emony, Margaret Kelly, Principal of Rosemont said: “The Rosemont teaching and project teams are delighted to be marking the commencement of construction, with this turning of the sod ceremony, kindly carried out by local Councillor Neale Richmond. We are excited about offering the community a girls’ secondary school which will provide a completely rounded education, focusing on pastoral care, as well as academic excellence. We are also very happy to be opening our facilities to the community, outside of school hours, to create further amenities for local groups and families.” Cllr Richmond said he

was confident that the school would be open in time for the start of the next academic year. “The building work has already started, and it’s absolutely shooting up. They think the building will be finished in 26 weeks in total, so by April or May it should be in place. Then they’ll let the ground settle before accepting students in next September, as there’s no point moving children halfway through the school year.” Rosemont Secondary School was first opened in 1977. The Sandyford project has an estimated cost of €17 million and is being managed by the developers John Sisk and Son Ltd. --------------------------

Cathaoirleach John Bailey, and Cllr Neale Richmond with principals, Maura Fennell, Margaret Kelly and Maire Malone

‘The Rosemont teaching and project teams are delighted to be marking the commencement of construction with this turning of the sod’ --------------------------


20 October 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 3

CHRISTMAS

BALALLY: BOGUS COLLECTORS CLAIM TO BE RAISING MONEY FOR CENTRE

Santa is coming

Warning of fake fundraisers Q NATALIE BURKE

news@gazettegroup.com

HEARTLESS bogus fundraisers are preying on the local Sandyford community, by falsely claiming to be raising funds for the new Balally Parish Pastoral Centre. On Sunday, Parish Priest, Fr Dermot Lane, alerted parishioners during the morning masses that bogus collectors were operating in the community, and had been spotted calling to local residents’ doors. The warning came just days after Taoiseach Enda Kenny officially turned the sod on the site of the new parish centre in Sandyford. The second phase of the fundraising campaign is now underway, and the Balally Parish is appealing to the local commu-

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‘We want to highlight that we are not using this method of door-to-door fundraising’ --------------------------

nity not to donate to the fraudulent collectors. “We want to highlight that we are not using this method of door-to-door fundraising,” said Brid Fitzgerald, parish administrator. “We believe one of the collectors was female and in her early twenties, and are encouraging anyone who has any information to contact the parish office. “They are claiming to be raising money for the Balally Parish Com-

Taoiseach Enda Kenny at the official sod turning

munity Centre, or the new community centre instead of the Parish Pastoral Centre,” Brid said. Anyone who wishes to donate money to the official fundraisers, can make direct contributions to the parish office, located at the Church of the Ascension of the Lord, on Cedar Road, Wedgewood, or by calling the office on 01 2954296.

Back to its roots: Enjoying the opening of a new book store LOCAL children Juliette Louchie (4), from Arbour Hill, and Dara Flynn (4), from Rathfarnham, attended the opening of the Hughes & Hughes pop-up store and Eureka toy corner in the Jervis Centre recently. Located on the old Waterstone’s site, it marks a welcome return for the bookseller to its roots in the Henry Street shopping area, where managing director Derek Hughes opened its first retail outlet inside Arnott’s department store in 1984.

SANTA is landing in Dundrum this Christmas, and Hamley’s Toy Shop are giving children the chance to have Breakfast with Santa each morning between Saturday, November 12, and Saturday, December 24. Children can enjoy a warm welcome each morning from Santa’s Elves, on hand to make their little visitors feel extra special as they entertain them throughout the unique experience. There will be Christmas activities for all the children, and each little guest will have a chance to have a special chat with Santa himself. Everyone can make their very own wish list. They will receive a goody bag and march out to Hamley’s Christmas Post Box to send their wish list off to the North Pole. For more information, call 01 2924901 or email dundrumparty@hamleys. co.uk or visit: www.hamleys.com/santadublin

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

émpower yourself at énergie fitness

Q CORMAC CURTIS

OVER the years, I have been a member of no less than eight fitness clubs or gyms. Like everyone else, I get to a point where I know my diet and lifestyle choices are poor at best, and I’m taking my health for granted. A fter many failed attempts at improving my overall health and fitness, I was pleasantly surprised over the summer when I tried a programme at énergie fitness in Swords called émpower. This same programme is offered in all énergie fitness clubs.

The émpower difference What I liked about the émpower programme is that it didn’t involve a trainer attempting to psyche me up to become a full-time fitness freak. Instead, it recommended a six-week plan that addresses the key elements to a healthier and fitter lifestyle. By answering some simple questions, and keeping

an accurate food diary for a week, I was encouraged to change my habits and really get the best out of a fitness plan, and, ultimately, it gave me the energy I needed to start reaching my goals. The key to the workouts here is intensity. It was explained to me that by varying the types of exercise, and concentrating on the intensity of them, I would get the best results, and in a fraction of the time I traditionally spent at the gym.

How does the émpower programme work? The six-week programme promises as much advice and support as you need while you work towards your personal fitness and weight loss goals. During that 6 weeks you will have: 6 support sessions with your own personal trainer, an émpower pack with DVD to plot your route to success, 30 minute fitness sessions tailored to you and guaranteed results or your money back. The émpower programme is

included in your membership of énergie fitness. Results are guaranteed, or your money back! All in all, the émpower programme is something that changed my approach to fitness, and it continues to provide me with the tools I need to reach my fitness goals.

Change for life Stephanie Whelan from RathfarnhamVillage joined énergie Rathfarnham and lost five stone in 14 months, from when she started doing the programme last October. When asked if she found the programme hard to follow, she said: “It was OK, it wasn’t too tough, but the trainers would keep you going. If they saw you were on a programme, they’d come over and ask you how you are and keep you on track.” Regarding staying motivated, she said that the support of the trainers and other programme participants was crucial. “There were times it was hard. We all get times when

we get down and don’t feel up to it, but then we see other people doing it and the trainers are there to motivate you.” “I’ve lost five stone in 14 months so I’d definitely recommend it.” Barbara McGrath, from Deansgrange, also a member of énergie Rathfarnham, started the émpower programme on March 7 and said the staff could not have been more helpful in guiding her to achieve her goals. “The programme was absolutely brilliant; it was very, very good. I felt very sore to begin with but you get used to it. They didn’t push me, just whatever I was able to do myself. They actually try and see what the best programme is for you. They just guide you and it depends on yourself, everybody shows you something different each week.” When asked if it was difficult to stay motivated, she said: “In the beginning, I was feeling sore and stiff, but, after a fewweeks of get-

ting used to it, I was looking forward to it. I like going back to it. When you start losing the weight, that’s the extra motivation you need. “I have a before picture that I carry around with me, as well as a picture of myself on the press in the kitchen. It’s not because I love myself, it’s a motivation to stop me if I feel like bingeing!” Barbara lost four dress sizes in six months and is still losing weight. “If you look at the photo, I’m actually slimmer than what I was. I still have a bit to go yet, but I’m on the right road.” She initially attended the classes alone, but was made to feel instantly at ease thanks to the staff. “It’s great, each and every one of the staff are so nice and made me feel welcome. I’d recommend it to everybody.” For more information, please call energie fitness Rathfarnham at 01 – 4994244 or log onto www. energiefitness.ie.

lost four McGrath Barbara months es in six iz s s s e r d Stephanie Whelan lost five stone in 14 months.


4 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 20 October 2011

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Nurse avoids jail again

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Q STAFF REPORTER

60 10 240 ENTERPRISENEWS

Learn how to Create & Evaluate Business Ideas and to Spot Emerging Market Opportunities! ‘Idea Generation & Market Identification’ Workshop Wednesday November 9th, Stillorgan Park Hotel ANYONE who is planning on starting their own business or looking to pursue new opportunities for an existing business needs to be able to generate fresh business ideas and identify profitable openings in new markets. The Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Enterprise Board is hosting a morning workshop on this topic on Wednesday November 9th from 9am to 1pm at the Stillorgan Park Hotel. The session will cover the following areas: • Create & Assess New Business Ideas • Identify & Evaluate New Market Opportunities for Your Business • Unlock Your Creativity for Commercial Gain • Practice Effective ‘Brainstorming The session will also feature a Questions & Answers session with the workshop facilitators and Entrepreneurial & Business Training Specialists, QED Training. Throughout the morning there will also be opportunity to network with fellow workshop participants. For further information and to book your place, visit www.dlrceb.ie/training. Contact (01) 494 8400 or info@dlrceb.ie

Neola Boutique: Recently opened a store in Dundrum Town Centre DUNDRUM Town Centre is delighted to announce the arrival of

Neola Fashion Boutique. With its excellent range of clothing styles and brands, this luxurious fashion retailer has opened on the Gallery level. The fashion boutique covers 20-30 top brands, with always competitive prices and you can be sure to find many of your favourite brands are 5-10% cheaper in Neola. The store stocks brands such as Ted Baker, French Connection, Ugg Australia, Odd Molly, Melissa and many more.

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A NURSE, who was given a non-custodial sentence for stealing thousands of euro from a dying patient, has again avoided jail for possessing forged prescriptions. Doreen Appleby (59) previously worked as a night nurse with the Irish Cancer Society. She was given a two-year sentence, suspended for five years by Judge Frank O’Donnell in March, 2010. Judge O’Donnell called it a “total breach of trust” and said Appleby “had put her hand into the pocket of a dying lady.” However, he also noted her lack of previous convictions and battle with alcohol and imposed a two-year sentence, suspended for five years. Her case was re-entered before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for reactivation of the sentence after she pleaded guilty in the District Court to presenting forged prescriptions at three different pharmacies. Judge Martin Nolan heard she had continuing alcohol and prescription drug problems and had made full admissions to the offences. He said he would not reactivate her suspended sentence and would let the District Court deal with the forgery charges. In March 2010, Appleby, of Carrickmore Gardens, Saggart, pleaded guilty to three counts of stealing cheques from Ms Bernadette Monaghan and her husband, Hugh, at their house on Mount Anville Road, Goatstown, between February 10 and 13, 2007. Detective Sergeant Sean Hogan told prosecuting counsel, Mr Garret Baker BL, that Appleby was caring for the terminally ill woman and finished her shift two hours

before she passed away. Shortly beforehand Ms Monaghan had received a cheque from ACC bank for €19,990. Her daughter, who was handling all of her affairs, put the cheque in a pink Chanelle gift box, which also contained Ms Monaghan’s funeral arraignments. When she passed away her daughter went to the box to retrieve her funeral requests and noticed the cheque was missing. After the funeral the family continued looking for the cheque and rang the bank when they could not find it. ACC bank assured them the cheque was “account payable” meaning only be paid into the late Ms Monaghan’s account. They also put a block on the cheque to further prevent it from being cashed. When the family rang the bank again several weeks later they were told there had been an error and the cheque had been paid into a post office account in Tallaght. At the same time Mr Monaghan noticed something wrong in his bank account and it was discovered another cheque for €7,050 had been forged in his name and paid into the same post office account. This account was traced back to Appleby who had opened it using an unwitting friend’s passport. Gardai arrested her. A search of the home revealed the friend’s passport and another cheque that had been stolen from the house made out to pay €5,000 in the post office account. Appleby admitted to taking another two blank cheques which she filled out later for the €7,010 and €5,000 amounts. She said she set up the postoffice account using her friend’s passport which she had after they went on holidays together.


20 October 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 5

READING

SPORT GRANTS: DUBLIN SOUTH RECEIVES OVER €100K

Meet the writers

Funding for local sports Q DAWN LOVE

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dundrum@gazettegroup.com

‘The facilities provided by the County Council are all the more important and welcome’

LOCAL sporting organisations and clubs in Dublin South were celebrating last week after they received over €100k in the latest round of Sports Capital Grants. Under the funding, Ballawley Park will receive €24,962 for Outdoor Exercise Equipment while Cabinteely Park will also see pitch and drainage works amounting to €22k take place. Fine Gael TD Olivia Mitchell was amongst those who welcomed the funding, describing it as a “good news story for Dublin South” adding that it would allow “real improvements to be made”. “Due to our current economic situation, we

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are unsure of the immediate future of grants of any description. While the amount of funding available for this round may not match the amounts available in the years of the Celtic Tiger, when taken in conjunction with the County Council, they will allow real improvements to be made to local sporting facilities,” she said. “Some grants are for entirely new amenities and others are for the repair and upgrade of existing

facilities, which will have an enormous impact and immense benefit for local communities.” Other facilities to be awarded funding through the Capital Grants include Marlay Park, where pitch drainage works amounting to €5k will take place, while a Multi-Use Games Area will also be established at The Gallops totaling €25k. “In these straitened times, when private clubs and sporting facilities are less affordable, the facilities provided by the County Council are all the more important and welcome. The recently published frightening statistics, particularly about childhood and adolescent obesity, also highlight the importance of sport and exercise opportunities,” said Deputy Mitchell.

Prize draws: Lorraine Mancey wins a prize of €500 Tesco Vouchers THE NUTGROVE Shopping Centre just keeps giving away prizes.

Locals can’t believe their luck, as every month a lucky customer gets to take home €500 worth of vouchers. Lorraine Mancey is pictured here with Seán Aylward, Centre Manager, receiving her prize of €500 Tesco Vouchers in the July prize draw giveaway. She will now go straight into the massive €10,000 giveaway draw.

WB YEATS and Maeve Binchy are just some of the writers set to be featured in an upcoming event, Meet the Writers, All Aboard the Dalkey Tram later this month. The event will take place in Dalkey Castle and Heritage Centre on October 29 - 31 at 8pm. Selections from the writers’ work will be woven together by Tim the Dalkey Tram driver who allegedly knew all these w riters as he travelled back and forth from Dalkey to Dublin and all stops in between! M e a nw h i l e , we l l known live music selections, from John Dowland to Van Morrison, will feature through the live theatre performances and a duet of dancers from Damhsa Dance Company will complete the show. A d m i s s i o n : € 15 . Booking: at Dalkey Castle; info@dalkeycastle. com or tel 01 2858366


6 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 20 October 2011

MOTORING Closure of the motor tax office in Nutgrove will hurt businesses

Council starts to rationalise motor tax offices Q LAURA WEBB news@gazettegroup.com

FEARS are mounting over the future of the motor tax office in Nutgrove, after it emerged that Dublin City Council is to begin consultation with staff and unions to rationalise the four motor tax offices in Dublin. It’s understood the consultation period will take approximately six weeks, but local politicians this

week slammed the move with Dublin South TD Shane Ross (Ind) saying it did not make economic sense. “Car owners are now victims of cuts. The Nutgrove shopping centre is a thriving business location. The decision of this state-owned outfit to pull out will damage the economic activity of the area. Closure will cause huge inconvenience to local residents. It will hurt other

businesses in the centre. Drivers from Dundrum, Churchtown, Ballinteer and the surrounding areas will now be forced to go to Ballymun, Clondalkin, Bray or the city centre for driving licences. “I have yet to be convinced that a pullout makes any economic sense but is simply a knee-jerk response to the national need for cost cutting. I shall be raising the matter in the Dail at the

earliest opportunity,” the Dublin South TD said. Meanwhile, Fianna Fail Councillor Aoife Brennan has also criticised the move saying: “Nobody wants to see it close. Everyone in Dublin South relies on it. Not everyone can access it online. People from come all over to use it, it is always busy. A spokesperson for DCC would not comment on whether the Nutgrove office will close and said

the council “is not in a position to disclose details of the consultation at this juncture, prior to the discussions reaching a conclusion.” However, in a letter sent to Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council county manager Owen Keegan, and dated October 12, Kathy Quinn of DCC’s Finance Department said: “The need to rationalise the Motor Tax offices was identified in

the Dublin City Council Public Service Agreement 2010 – 2014 Action Plan of November 2, 2010.” “Further reference was made to the need to accelerate this action by the Independent Review Group on Dublin City Council Staffing (July, 2011): ‘In the case of Motor Taxation the proposal by Dublin City Council to rationalise the number of motor tax offices in the Dublin area

under the Public Services (Croke Park) Agreement should be accelerated, with the clear objective of service cost reduction’. “This proposal outlines the first phase of this rationalisation. It is proposed to close the Nutgrove office and a meeting with the unions representing staff took place on October 10 to commence the consultation on the closure of this office,” said Quinn.

READING: BEYOND THE HAIR CUT

A barber releases his new book Q NATALIE BURKE

news@gazettegroup.com

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

DundrumGazette

LOCAL barber Peter Quinn, of Frankie’s Barber shop in Rathfarnham, has proved that what happens in the barber shop, doesn’t necessarily stay in the barber shop, with the release of his new book Short Back and Sides. The book is a collection of the quirky anecdotes recorded over the years by the popular barber and Rathfarnham local. “I’ve been w riting

down the stories I’ve heard from customers since about 1999, but the majority of the comments in the book take place from 2007 onwards, because I noticed the biggest change in the pattern of the stories once the recession hit,” Peter told the Gazette. For the majority of customers, it is “the chat rather than the hair cut” that seals the deal, but Peter likes to think it’s both. “I spend a lot of time talking to customers when I’m cutting their

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‘I would hear some incredible stories and it could be anything from a place across the world, to a good book, to something funny that happened locally’ --------------------------------------------------------

Peter Quinn, Frankie’s Barber in Rathfarnham

hair and I think that is part and parcel of getting a haircut. I would hear some incredible stories and it could be anything from a place across the world, to a good book, to something funny that happened locally, and I’d find myself repeating the story to someone else later. So I decided to start

writing them all down”. The multi-talented barber, who grew up in nearby Bohernabreena and has worked in Frankie’s for the past eight years, tested his latest project on some of his customers and said the feedback he has gotten so far has been positive. “I was delighted with the laughs it got. I

gave it to my Dad to read too, and he didn’t lift his head out of it for a day, although he didn’t laugh either! I’m hoping it will sell well, and, if it does, I might try and have an official launch of the book.” Short Back and Sides is published by Gill & Macmillan and is priced €6.99.


20 October 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 7

EVENT Official turning of the sod for new Parish centre

Enda Kenny paid tribute Q DAWN LOVE news@gazettegroup.com

TAOI S E AC H , E n d a Kenny was on hand last week to officially turn the sod on the site of a new €1.1m parish centre in Sandyford. When completed, the Balally Parish Pastoral Centre at the Church of the Ascension of the Lord will provide for a broad range of uses for all groups in the locality. Speaking at the event, the Taoiseach praised the initiative and paid tribute to those who are giving of their time, expertise, money and commitment to the project. “Communities such as yours are to be congratulated on your endeavours to date. The foundations of centres such as this are not built on bricks and

mortar - they are built on community values and sharing, caring, including and, above all, coming together. “The value of this centre is not just the magnificent building that emerges and the needs it will serve, it is the sense of commitment that is nurtured by the efforts of those who are involved. It is owned by you, built by you - but not just for you.

‘A gift’ “As your impressive brochure states, it is ‘a gift from this generation to the next’,” the Taoiseach said. During construction, some 15 full-time jobs will be created, which, Mr. Kenny said, was “something to be applauded” . He added: “Any initiative that creates jobs, be

it one, 10 or 100, is to be welcomed in today’s environment. “And yet the benefits will go beyond just jobs, because, at the end, you will have a centre that will be the focal point of your community. “As your brochure says, it will be a concrete expression of the sense of community that is in the parish.” The Taoiseach was welcomed to Balally by Msgr. Dermot Lane PP; Ciaran Callan, Chairman of the Fundraising and Building Committees; and Sean Mac Giolla Fhearga, Chairman of the Parish Pastoral Committee. Also speaking at the event, Msgr. Lane emphasised the inclusive nature of the project. The centre, he said, would be open to all and

Cllr John Bailey, Mr Dermot Lane, PP Balally, and Taoiseach, Enda Kenny.

would be used as a dropin day care resource centre for meetings, lectures, art classes, community based activities, youth activities, adult education, dance classes, the hospitality group, flower arranging, and will meet the needs of most of the 33 diverse groups already active in the Parish.

And with the second phase of the fundraising campaign is now set to get underway, Msgr Lane said: “We look forward to intensifying our fundraising campaign and I would urge all those who wish to contribute to do so through one of the methods outlined in our brochure.”

Green flag: Children on receipt of their 4th Flag CHILDREN from the Divine Word National

School in Marley Grange are pictured raising their 4th Green Flag presented to them by Mayor Catriona Jones, South Dublin County Council, and Alex White TD. This fourth flag included a Travel Flag as well as a Energy, Litter and Waste and Water Flag.


8 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 20 October 2011

EVENT Senator David Norris takes his campaign to be

A lotta love for candidate

HERE was a whole lot of love for presidential candidate David Norris at Dundrum Town Centre with hugs and kisses all round. Mr Norris received an extraordinarily warm welcome from the public, the like of which centre managers commented they had not seen before. Young and old alike queued to meet the charismactic Senator whose approach was typically polite and which was greeted with much enthusiasm. Many had their own personal little stories, like Gareth Walsh who, three years ago, had phoned Mr Norris to ask him to call his mother Bridie, a fan, to wish her a Happy Birthday, they were both overwhelmed when Mr Norris invited Bridie to lunch at his home. Slow progress around the Centre gained pace on the escalators, which David likened to speed dating.

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Sarah Hanley with Senator Norris. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

Caitriona McPartlin and Sen Norris

Sen Norris with the Neeland family

Shane Fortune and David

Beverley Cook and Maura Cook

Senator Norris shares a joke

Bridie and Gareth Walsh meet the candidate

Elice Manning with David


20 October 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 9

the next president of Ireland to Dundrum Town Centre

Eddie Ingle, Dundrum Town Centre security manager, greets David

Megan Murphy, Rochelle Cumming, Rebecca Jones and Lucy Cross

Dylan Carroll and the Senator

Dolores and Gearoidin McEvoy with David

Emily and John Murphy meet David


10 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 20 October 2011

EVENTS Challenging discrimination at Social Inclusion Week

Children attending this year’s Social Inclusion week put their hands up for diversity. Pictures: Jason Clarke Photography

Community event promoted inclusion

HIS year’s Social Inclusion event organised by Dun LaoghaireRathdown County kicked off in style with a number of events celebrating the area’s cultural diversity. Opened by RTE’s Miriam O’Callaghan in the New Civic Square, it marked a week of events

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aimed to achieve equality and challenge all types of discrimination in the community. It also highlighted the importance of supporting people to contribute to social and cultural life and to be aware of, and challenge all types of marginalisation due to race.

The theme of diversity was reflected in the range of events — there were more than 70 taking place over the week, including a 5-a-side Garda Siochana soccer tournament and diversity workshop, and a “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” fashion show.

Taking in the launch day’s events

Azhar Ahmed, Marium Syed, Zairaib Ahamd and Alla Elporgay, Aqsa Khalyt, Mariun Syed, Khadijah Diubi and Khaoula Tayahi

Khadijah Duibi

Aqsa Khalid tries on Garda Angelina Conefry’s hat


20 October 2011 GAZETTE 11

FESTIVE Tesco launches a choice selection of treats

Q STAFF REPORTER

THIS Christmas Tesco have everything on hand to take the hassle out of your family Christmas dinner or festive party celebrations, with an extensive range of food and drink in-store to suit every taste, and pocket. From festive fizz and canapes, to traditional Christmas favourites and meal accompaniments, Tesco has something to make this Christmas one to remember. Party Favourites/ Sophisticated Starters

No festive party is complete without the addition of some chic canapes to set the tone for the evening. Why not add a touch of class with some Tesco Finest canapes… the taste without the luxury price tag!

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Post Dinner treats

‘From festive fizz and canapes, to traditional Christmas favourites’

For those who still have room left after such an amazing feast, their is also an array of post-dinner delights to enjoy. Why not finish Christmas dinner with a choice of exquisite Irish farmhouse cheeses from suppliers across the country, including Cashel Irish Cheese Selection, the Old Irish Creamery, Carrigaline Farmhouse Cheese Gift Box selection, Ardsallagh Cranberry Roulade, Horgan’s Value Selection or Horgan’s Executive Selection. Tesco’s Finest* Irish Farmhouse Cheese Selection, will also impress family and friends.

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joint with honey and wholegrain mustard. For those looking for a different choice for the dinner table this Christmas, try Tesco’s Finest* Rib Roast Beef with Mixed Peppercorn Crumb or the Tesco Finest* Leg of Lamb. Every accompaniment to finish off Christmas dinner from Finest* Potatoes and Brussel Sprouts to Tesco’s Carrot and Parsnip Selection and Carrots all of which are Irish grown, are available this year.

Christmas Dinner

The main event of the day is sure to be a hassle-free show-stopper with the selection of traditional meats and alternatives on sale this year. Traditionalists will love the selection of fresh Irish turkeys and turkey crowns, which will be in stores from December. Look out for some real dinner table treats, such as the Tesco Finest Bronze Turkey and the Tesco Fresh Turkey Joint with Orange and Cranberry Stuffing Wrapped in Parma Ham from Grove Farm in Monaghan. Accompany the turkey with a choice of ham joints from Hilton Foods, Drogheda, such as smoked ham on the bone, dry cured loin ham joint with brown sugar, pear and bay leaf or dry cured premium ham

Delicious Desserts

There is also an extensive range of range of puddings, cakes and desserts, perfect for families and friends. For the traditional ending to Christmas dinner, try Tesco’s Finest* Christmas Pudding with Courvosier VS Cognac (908g) or Tesco Finest*’s Christmas Pudding (454g). For a dessert with a light European flavour, finish with Tesco Finest* Pannetone Pudding (227g). T h e e ve r- p o p u l a r mince pies are another family favourite, treat everyone with Tesco Finest* Deep Filled Mince Pies with Courvosier VS Cognac or Tesco Finest* 12 Mini Mince Pies with Courvosier VS Cognac, for a little bit of what you fancy!

Tesco launched their Christmas range of foods and fashion last week, Heather is pictured at the event, wearing a dress from the autumn/winter fashion range Festive Tipples

No Christmas would be complete without a touch of fizz, and, this year, no matter what your budget, there is something to suit all pockets. Tesco Finest* Premier Cru Champagne NV 75cl is the perfect addition to any party. For those looking for a

nice wine to accompany Christmas dinner, the Tesco Finest* Duorois, a medium-bodied red would go well with meat main dishes such as turkey and beef. There is also Tesco Finest* Picpoul de Pinet, a crisp French white from the Languedoc which partners fish start-

ers perfectly. So, whether you are looking for a stress free Christmas dinner with all the trimmings or a Christmas Party with all the festive accompaniments get down to your local Tesco store for an exciting range of treats, mains, desserts and nibbles for all the family.

Giving the X3 the M Factor: This is a powerful, 3.0 litre M Sport performance version of the machine, with all the style, safety and luxury features thrown in

W

Make your Christmas a tasty and stylish one

MOTORING PAGE 19


12 GAZETTE 20 October 2011

SPORT: STAR PLAYER, ONLINE GAME

GASTRONOMY Food experiences in Ireland

Time to give us predictions MIMI MURRAY news@gazettegroup.com

This is the eighth consecutive year that Heineken, the world’s most international beer brand, has sponsored the prestigious UCL. Walter Drenth, marketing director at Heineken Ireland, said: “Star Player will really change the way in which Irish football fans interact with the UEFA Champions League; it has created a more social, ‘play and watch’ experience during matches. The appetite for UCL in Ireland continues to be huge and, with the introduction of Star Player, Heineken brings fans another truly premium, innovative experience.” The Heineken Star Player is available to play on Heineken.ie.

Celebrity Maitre‘D, John Healy at Ivan’s Oyster Bar and Grill in Howth

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HEINEKEN Star Player is back for another round of matches. Star Player is a world-first innovation online game that lets fans interact with realtime football matches on Heineken.ie while they watch UEFA Champions League matches on television. Star Player is transforming how fans watch the UEFA Champions League by allowing them to anticipate events unfolding on the pitch. By making second-bysecond predictions in realtime, UEFA Champions League fans build points by predicting goals, corner kicks and

free kicks. Using unique timedependent technology, with every correct forecast, fans gain points. Through the Interactive Champions League, fans can also compete and share Star player results with their friends via Facebook and with other players around the world. Irish fans will have a weekly chance to win a VIP trip to a UEFA Champions League match by topping the Star Player Irish league table. Soccer fans can log on to Heineken.ie and register for their chance to win. Each week the runnerup in the Star Player Irish league table will win a Heineken Fusball table.

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CELEBRITY Maitre‘D, John Healy was at Ivan’s Oyster Bar and Grill in Howth last week to demonstrate that there is no need to “make a meal” out of sourcing the best quality food experiences in Ireland, simply log onto www.discoverireland.ie/food. The website is a virtual haven for foodies and is a one-stop-shop for information on food festivals, food trails, cookery schools, farmer’s markets, food attractions, eating out and even Foodie TV. John is very familiar with demanding critics, having worked front of house in the food industry for the last 20 years, and is happy to give the website its own five-star rating! Commenting about what Ireland has to offer foodies throughout the country, John said:

--------------------------

‘It’s a virtual haven for foodies and is a one-stop-shop for information’ --------------------------

“The Irish Food industry is currently thriving and it appears that the country’s palette has collectively woken up to the amazing range of foodie experiences available to both connoisseurs and novices alike. Ireland can compare very favourably with our European neighbours and anyone can try their hand at an afternoon in a cookery schools, uncover some hidden gems on a tasty food trail or meet the makers of some of the top artisan food. I want to encourage people to get out there and discover exactly what Ireland has to offer!” An example of some of the gastronomic high-

lights that are coming up this autumn include Savour Kilkenny Food Festival, which takes place over the October Bank Holiday Weekend and features a bustling open-air market against the spectacular backdrop of Kilkenny Castle; Slow Foods Ireland’s Wild & Slow Festival will take place in a winter fest style market at Macreddin Village, Co. Wicklow on November 19-20, and the Listowel Food Fair, which runs from the November 3-6 and showcases everything from cheese making to baking and beer tasting to beekeeping. If you would like to get some inspirational ideas on eating out, or find out where to go for the best markets to stock up on some home-made artisan goodies, or if you are simply interested in experiencing some of Ireland’s fantastic food festivals and events, check out www.discoverireland.ie/ food


20 October 2011 GAZETTE 13

GazetteNUTRITION NUTRITION Foods that will help you win! LEILA JOHARI

ON MONDAY, October 31, the Dublin City Marathon will take place. For those of you taking part this is the day that you have been working towards for weeks, even months, so the last thing you want to do is to miss out on that gold medal due to poor nutrition! In addition to physical training you need a nutritional plan to ensure you are meeting your body’s increased nutrient requirements to optimise your performance in competition. Needs of runners

Carbohydrates are the most important nutrient. Some marathon runners practise “carbohydrate loading”, an approach that maximises stores of glycogen, which is the first fuel to be used during intense exercise. To achieve this, you limit your intake of carbohydrates for a couple of weeks before the event. The initial reduction in carbohydrates makes the body extremely sensitive to them when they enter the body, allowing glycogen stores to be replenished. When competing for over 90 minutes normal glycogen stores will not be enough to maintain exercise so the goal of carbohydrate loading is to superload muscles with glycogen to delay fatigue and enable you to exercise for longer. It is best to eat a variety of food from each of the four major food groups each day so that you get a

good supply of the nutrients a marathon runner needs. These nutrients include carbohydrate, protein, fat, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin E, iron, calcium and zinc.

drinks have similar benefits. Marathon runners should choose isotonic sports drinks as these quickly replace fluids lost by sweating and supply carbohydrates. Examples include Lucozade Sport.

Before the event

After the event

Exercising on a full stomach is not ideal. Food takes about 1-4 hours to fully digest, depending on how much you have eaten. On the day of the event it is best to eat a light breakfast, such as a cereal or toast and fruit juice. Drink water in small amounts after breakfast at regular intervals so that you start the race fully hydrated. You may also consider a liquid meal if you find it hard to eat solid meals before a competition as they are quickly emptied from the stomach. Fibre should be avoided precompetition as they can result in stomach upsets. Choose lower-fibre foods such as cornflakes, white bread and soft fruits with no skin.

Following the event, it is vital to ensure fast recovery. It is essential to replace lost fluids and replace sodium losses to ensure maximum fluid retention. You need to drink 1.5 times the amount of body weight you have lost from sweat and urination. Even if you are celebrating try to avoid drinks containing caffeine and alcohol after competing! A large, carbohydrate meal should be eaten within two hours of the finish. It should consist of high GI foods. Bananas and dried fruit are good immediately following a marathon. A main meal might consist of bread, pasta, potatoes and rice. It is also an opportunity for you to enjoy foods that you would usually avoid such cakes and sweets. Don’t go too crazy though! Combining protein and carbohydrate will enhance your recovery. Athletes who refuel with carbohydrate and protein have 100% greater muscle glycogen stores than those who ate only carbohydrates so try to include a good source of protein such as chicken or eggs. Remember that your nutritional plan is part of your first-place formula and will help ensure you bring home the gold!

Sheena Crotty, from Lucan, celebrates completing the Lifestyle Sports - adidas Dublin Marathon 2010

During the event

During the marathon you must prevent dehydration, prevent depletion of glycogen/energy stores, maintain blood glucose levels and electrolyte balance. Examples of suitable foods that can be consumed during the event include bananas and sports bars. Sports bars boost carbohydrate levels, help improve endurance levels, help maintain blood sugar levels and provide a sustained release of energy. Sports


14 GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: WHETHER CATS, BATS OR RATS, SOME PEOPLE COLLECT TOO MANY ANIMALS

Horror animal hoarding signs to look out for Although it’s commonplace for many animal lovers to care for two or more pets, some people can accumulate far too many animals to properly tend to their needs, unintentionally creating a menagerie of ill, diseased and distressed creatures

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THE other night, whilst trawling through T V channels, I came across a programme dealing with compulsive hoarding. Now, it’s my understanding that “hoarding” is the acquisition of possessions – which a person fails to use or discard – and which are in excess of what would be deemed “normal” amounts. It‘s a serious, debilitating disorder for the sufferer. However, when the hoarding compulsion involves animals, then it‘s a very real concern – the effects of which are a mental health, animal health and public safety issue. At the DSPCA, we investigate and deal with incidents of animal hoarding. Here are just some of the markers that would give us cause for concern – more than the usual number of companion pets; an inability to provide even the minimum standards of nutrition, shelter, veterinary care and sanitary conditions for the animals, and a denial of this inability, and the impact that it has on the animals and the home environment for both them and the human occupants of the home. So, why hoard animals? From what I’ve studied, some research points toward a number of obsessive-compulsive disorders. Newer studies lead toward attachment disorders, in conjunction with personality disor-

ders, paranoia, delusional thinking, depression and other mental illnesses. For example, some animal hoarders began collecting following a traumatic loss or event; then again, others see themselves as “rescuers” Very often, hoarders appear to be intelligent people, believing they’re helping animals. Many even possess the ability to garner sympathy, and can even deceive others into thinking their situation is under control. They become ignorant to the fact they’re not helping the animals, but are inflicting extreme suffering upon them. How do you spot a hoarder? Animal hoarders range in age and gender. The elderly tend to be more at risk, and this is possibly due to their own deteriorating health, and isolation either from family, community or social groups. One common denominator between them is the lack of understanding of the pain and suffering they are inflicting upon the animals. They have many animals, and may not even know the total number in their care. Their homes are in a state of deterioration, (broken furniture, in need of repair, lots of clutter). A strong smell of ammonia is present, and floors may be covered in animal poo, urine, vomit, etc. Animals in their care are emaciated, poorly

groomed, and not properly socialised. Vermin are present. The person is isolated and has neglected themselves. Despite the signs of distress, the individual insists all is well, and the animals are well cared for. Do hoarders ever pass themselves off as rescue shelters? Unfortunately, sometimes they can set themselves up as “rescue” facilities, and may appear to be sensible individuals. They convey their love for those animals that have special needs. Lately, the internet has become a tool for such solicitation. How do you know if it’s a hoarder or a rescue shelter? The hoarder is unwilling to allow visitors to see the location where animals are kept. (The rescue shelter will have no such problem.) The hoarder will not disclose the number of animals in its care. (The rescue shelter will be able to provide facts and sta-

tistics.) Little or no effort is made by the hoarder to adopt animals out. (Rescue shelters actively seek to re-home animals in their care.) Legitimate rescue shelters are viewed as “the enemy” by hoarders. Animals may be picked up or handed over at a remote location, such as at a car park, field or street corner, rather than at the hoarder’s facilities. The legitimate rescue shelter will have a headquarters. Please bear in mind that not everyone who has multiple animals is a hoarder. An individual may have many animals, have them spayed/neutered, and provide them with regular veterinary care, a correct diet, proper living conditions and a sanitary environment. Such a person would not be considered a hoarder. For more info log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie

All these cats – and many more – were found swarming one small apartment in an extreme hoarding case


20 October 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

Transform your life, transform you hair JOHN Frieda is giving 15 Irish women the chance to commemorate a transformation in their life. On November 8, top stylist and Dublin native, Jake Davis, will travel to Dublin to host the John Frieda Transformation Day. From the 15 finalists, there will be one overall winner, who will travel to the John Frieda Salon in London for the ultimate hair transformation. Friends and family of the finalists will have a chance to vote on their makeovers, as the campaign will roll out on John Frieda Ireland facebook page from December until February 2012. Facebook votes will go towards the overall winner’s selection by a panel of judges from John Frieda and selected beauty media. John Frieda Transformation is a campaign to celebrate the achievements of women’s lives – how they have transformed the way they live, work or love. To enter women have to send the story of their life trans-

formation to John Frieda. From these stories, 15 finalists will be selected to attend the Dublin Transformation Day. The closing date for sending transformation stories to transformation@johnfrieda.ie is Wednesday, October 26, 2011. Stories must be based on one of the following three categories: 1) Business and Work Transformations Stories showing examples of entrepreneurial business ideas or opportunities seized to overcome financial difficulty or job loss, retraining or returning to study to transform your career. 2) Health Transformations Stories based on triumphs over personal ill health or caring for someone with ill health. 3) Life Transformations Stories based on a life event – from matters of the heart, helping a charity, lifestyle changes, inspirational encounters with groups or individuals – that have turned your life around for the better .

Transformation stories should be no longer than 300 words, and should include a recent portrait (head and shoulders only) emailable picture in jpeg format. Entrants must be available to attend the John Frieda Transformation Day on Tuesday, November 8, 2011, in Dublin. 80th Anniversary of Sudocrem It’s one of Ireland’s bestloved products, and this year, Sudocrem will celebrate its 80th anniversary. Developed as an antiseptic healing cream, it has been the first choice for generations of mums and healthcare professionals in its native Ireland and internationally since its formulation in 1931. Dublin pharmacist Thomas Smith’s Sudocrem fast became popular with Irish midwives and mothers for treating

nappy rash, becoming the market leader for soothing, healing and protecting the skin of babies’ sensitive bottoms. Clinically proven in this category, Sudocrem leads the market in over 30 countries all over the world. Sweetly scented with lavender, with a soft texture, the nostalgia inducing white cream has a water-repellent base which forms a protective barrier. Hypoallergenic lanolin provides its emollient effect and Peru Balsam its healing properties. And for 80 years, Thomas Smith’s original formulation has remained unchanged. Sudocrem is available from independent pharmacies, major pharmacy chains, supermarkets and selected children’s department stores nationwide.

John Frieda is giving 15 Irish women the chance to commemorate a transformation in their life

A comforted complexion THE changing seasons can play havoc with your complexion. Loved by celebrities, VOYA’s Maskerade is an intensely moisturising face mask with the hydrating power of hand harvested seaweed, Maskerade will rescue and replenish skin. Prepare your skin for winter by treating it to a hydrating and antioxidant-rich Maskerade face mask. Take 10 minutes to sit back and relax while VOYA’s Maskerade Mask sooths and repairs your skin. Price: €35.00 VOYA products can be purchased online at www.voya.ie. For stockist information, call VOYA on 071 9168956 & sales@ voya.ie.


16 GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes High-flying Noel back on unclipped wings RECORD REVIEW: THE TALENT BEHIND OASIS RETURNS

TO THE abject horror of many, news emerges that the divisive figure of Skrillex is to work with the remaining members of The Doors to produce a new track as part of RE:Generation, a new movie project that teams up unexpected artists to create fresh collaborations. Ray Manzarek, John Densmore and Robbie Kreiger were teamed with the dubstep producer on a new track that is “hot as hell”, according to Manzarek. Other collaborations include rappers Nas and DJ Premier with the Berlklee College of Music Orchestra and the Crystal Method with Martha Reeves. Rock legend and officially the nicest bloke in the universe, Dave Grohl, added to his hero status last week when he stepped in to drum for Cage The Elephant when their regular drummer, Jared Champion, fell sick during the Foo Fighters’ US tour. Grohl approached Elephant’s management when he heard Champion had been admitted for surgery after suffering a burst appendix.

A bullet dodged or opportunity missed? Noel Gallagher last week revealed that he was approached, more than once, by Simon Cowell to take a place on the UK judging panel of this season’s X Factor. Noel turned the offer down, and the place was taken by Take That’s Gary Barlow. How Noel would have fared is undertain, but the man who once called Coldplay “music for bedwetters” would surely be well able to skewer the raging egos of some of this year’s contestants. Laughing Leonard Cohen, the buddhist monk of rock and roll, is to release a new record in 2012. He is currently in the studio with son, Adam, on a new body of work, which would be his first new set of songs since 2007’s Dear Heather. Earlier this year, Leonard Cohen was awarded Spain’s esteemed Prince Of Asturias Award for literature, joining previous winners of the prestigious prize such as the playwright Arthur Miller and naturalist Sir David Attenborough.

Leonard Cohen: Make em laugh...

Q ROB HEIGH

JUST after the fruit and guitars started flying in Paris, music lovers everywhere breathed a sigh of relief when Noel Gallagher called it a day on his career in Oasis. This act of humanitarian euthanasia brought to an end what had been a horrible period for all involved, most of all the fans who had watched as the fetid corpse of a formerly legendary band lumbered around the world for a decade. They had, at last, been put all of us out of their misery. Having seen Oasis at their peak at Earl’s Cour t in London in 1995, everything that came after was a massive disappointment. Had they imploded then, that would have been a fitting end and would have cemented them as one of the best bands of a generation. Unfortunately, they kept going on a cycle of ever-diminishing returns, dialling in facsimilies of former glories, ending with a fiasco at Slane, where the effort of even being

there at all seemed too much, and then the final nail in the coffin came at Rock En Seine in 2009. Liam insisted on keeping the horror show on the road, inflicting the Sixties’ zombie of Beady Eye on a public who ought to have known better, and now, after shying away from the limelight, Noel has returned to the fray with his first outing on record as Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds. The question being... is it any good? I’m pleased to report that being out of the knuckle-dragging shadow of Oasis’ legacy has loosened Noel up somewhat, and the record features easily the best set of songs he has been responsible for in many, many years. Albeit featuring several songs written, and even two previously recorded but not released, for Oasis, the record is a stroll through the styles that have made Gallagher a folk hero throughout his career. There is the classic Britpop sensibilities of the opener, Every-

Competition time: Win tickets to see Brendan Grace Comedian Brendan Grace is bringing his comedy stylings to the Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley, and we have four pairs of tickets to give away. “The greatest family comedian of our generation” presents a show to celebrate 39 years in the business. To win one of the sets of tickets, simply answer the following question: What was the name of the drum and bass-loving priest Brendan played in Father Ted? Send your answer to competition@ gazettegroup.com, with the subject line “Grace”, before Friday, October 28.

Noel Gallgher back with familiar but welcome set of songs

body’s On The Run, the understated guitar of If I Had A Gun, and, for me the best moment on the record, the Chemical Brothers-esque What A Life, that recalls his contribution to the Chemicals’ classic album, Surrender, the perennial, Let Forever Be. Being Noel Gallagher, the record is wholly familiar, like a pair of old slippers, but so comfortably fresh that

the hints of new directions make you salivating to hear more from the young codger. Although even that will not be far off, as early next year will see the release of an album with Amorphous Androgynous, the techno-ambient pioneers formerly known as the Future Sound Of London - expect a psychf lavoured wig-out of some epic proportions.

For the moment, however, just settle back and enjoy one of the best songwriters of the past 20 years enjoying the freedom to be himself. You are getting exactly what it says on the tin - Noel and a set of songs that aim high and fly on their classic melodies and arrangements — but rather this tin than the tin-eared tedium of the other Gallagher’s gallumphers.


20 October 2011 GAZETTE 17

THEATRE A hilarious take on the top talk show host

Springer is not for the faint-hearted Q LAURA WEBB

THE TV show is known for its controversial guests and funny antics, so what better dialogue to get inspiration for a hilarious and contentious opera than the Jerry Springer show and it’s coming to Dublin with an all-Irish cast. He was one of the most talked about talk show hosts of this generation and, when it was transformed into an opera, that buzz was reignited when Jerry Springer the Opera took London’s West End by storm with over 600 performances. Not for the faint-hearted, the show has everything you would expect from the show itself, including men in diapers, tap-dancing Klu Klux Klan members, and all in

front of a wild audience. The Irish production of Jerry Springer the Opera is the first all-Irish production and cast at the Grand Canal Theatre. Dubliner Derek Collins, who plays a Klu Klux Klan member in the first act and Adam (Adam and Eve) in the second act, says the show is brilliantly funny. “One of my characters is a redneck hillbilly and I will have a big, bushy beard by then. I haven’t shaved in about six weeks,” he laughed. Shocking

“It will be great fun. He is not a very nice character, but he gets his just desserts – it has all of the shocking aspects of the show, and it really isn’t for the soft-hearted. It is recommended for mature audiences only,

there is extremely coarse language. But if we don’t offend you, we are doing something wrong. It is the funniest show I have ever been involved in,” Derek said. “When I heard about the show, I just wanted to get in there and get an audition. There are so many reasons why you would want to do it – it’s Jerry Springer,” he joked. “I worked with John Donnelly before. He is a landmark director in Ireland – this is the first 100% Irish show that is going to be in the Grand Canal Theatre, which is hard to believe. “It is very exciting, it’s my first opera and it’s on at the Grand Canal Theatre. It’s one hell of a show. We are doing the show on a big scale. We have got an epic sound,

two musical directors, Dermot O’Callaghan and Kevin Walsh. The music is incredible.” Before the Jerry Springer Show, Derek was in Michael Collins the Musical, and nd has made variious appearancess on stage over hiss acting and sing-ing career. He iss delighted to be part of the show among cast members like Simon Delaney, playing Jerr y Springer, and Eoin Canno. The cast also includes Joe Walsh Walsh, Emma Wigglesworth, Anthony Blake, Helene Hutchinson, Jean Wallace and a chorus of over 60 singers and dancers. “Apart from Simon, the

The Irish production of Jerry Springer the Opera is the Th firs first all- Irish production and cast at the Grand Canal The Theatre which includes Dubliner Derek Collins (left)

majority of the leads are split roles, we all have at least two roles to play. There is an incredibly diverse amount of material there for the audience,” he said.

The opening night of T Jerry Springer the Opera Jerr takes place Halloween tak night, October 31 and audiences can come in fancy dress. It runs from October 31 until November 5, with tickets priced €17.50, which can be

purchased through Ticketmaster. Log onto www. grandcanaltheatre.ie for further information. This show is recommended for mature audiences due to extremely coarse language and adult situations.


18 GAZETTE 20 October 2011


20 October 2011 GAZETTE 19

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs

FAMILIES CAN PARK AND CHARGE AT CLERYS:

Putting the M in X3 MICHAEL MORONEY took the powerful 3.0-litre M Sport Sport version version 3.0 litre M of the BMW X3 for a run in recent weeks – the exhilaration was palpable behind the wheel. Simply put, this is a performance machine with all of the safety and luxury features thrown in S THE extra power and money really worth it for the 3.0-litre M Sport version of the BMW X3, I asked myself after just one day behind the wheel of the powerful SUV? By the end of a few days driving the battle between my heart and my head remained unresolved. I enjoyed the drive, loved the power but would I feel that strongly to spend the extra money that this car commands? The M Sport styling from BMW is obviously distinctive. To a motorhead everything about this X3 is special, from the stronger, more powerful, look to the bigger wheels and tyres. The styling on its own might have been strong enough to convince

I

SPECS: BMW X3 M SPORT Top speed: 230 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 6.2 secs Economy: 16.6km/litre (6.0l/100km) CO2 emissions: 159g/km Road Tax Band: D (€447) Price: €61,480

me but some of my passengers were not as much in awe. I was impressed with the engine sound and performance; they looked at the creature fittings, and the road comfort, and were not as impressed. This X3 M Sport BMW is very powerful with its six cylin-

der 3.0-litre twin turbo-charged diesel engine under the bonnet. The engine has massive power at 258bhp to propel the car to 100km/hr in just six seconds. The diesel power torque is even more impressive at over 550Nm and that’s where the 6.2 seconds for a 0 to 100km/hr pace comes from. I wondered was there too much power on tap; there is limited application for such power, apart from over-taking acceleration at which I have to say, it excelled. But you’ll feel it when you get the chance to put the acceleration to the best. This is sports car performance in SUV clothing. It remains solid through the acceleration so you get the feeling of balance

in a modest size SUV that oozes with power and torque. This extra power means poorer economy, although relative to some of the bigger 4x4s the X3 3.0 M Sport figure is acceptable. The official economy figure is 16.6 km/litre (6.0l/100km or 47mpg) and that’s about 15% less economical than the entrylevel 2.0-litre version of the X3, which is rated with about 15% slower acceleration. In this sense the powerto-economy curve appears a straight line. Rising power and acceleration also means rising fuel usage. My test drive was a little less impressive in terms of economy as I returned an average figure of about 12km/ litre (8.5l/100km) on the car’s

computer. That was about 25% lower than the rated figure and I didn’t expect much more as I was driving across a range of road conditions. It was more noticeable as I refilled the 67-litre capacity tank and I soon realised that that 900km range on a full tank was going to be outside my reach. M Sport X3 was only marginally less economical than the entry-model, 2.0-litre turbodiesel version. The economy is helped by a stop/start system and brake energy regeneration. So, even with its massive power and impressive acceleration, and the €145 difference in annual road tax, it won’t cost you a whole more to run!

Drivers believe in dog restraints MORE than 60% of drivers believe it should be compulsory to restrain dogs in cars when driving. That’s the result of a new British poll on an issue that supports passenger and dog safety in cars. The poll was carried out by GEM Motoring Assist to find out driver’s views on dogs wearing seat belts/harnesses in cars, after the issue became a hot topic over the summer. Ex -Eastenders actor Todd Carty appeared on TV campaign-

ing for a new law to be introduced to make dog seatbelts compulsory after he had a near tragic accident with his Labrador. While it has been proven that unnecessary accidents are caused by unrestrained animals in the car, the consequences in a crash can be severe. If a motorist is travelling at just 50km/hr (30mph), in the case of impact, an unrestrained average sized dog weighing approximately 25kg (50lbs) would be projected

forward with a force equal to a baby elephant. The potential danger to both pets and passengers from driving with an unrestrained animal should not to be ignored and the company urges drivers to be aware of the consequences. Dog harnesses are available for dogs of all sizes. It is wise to consider the safety of the dog as well as the rest of the family when it comes to car safety.

Consider getting a dog harness to keep your dog safe during transport

ESB ecars now provides electric car charge points in Q-Park Clerys multistorey car park, in the heart of Dublin city centre. This will enable motorists to charge their car while they are shopping, dining or carrying out business in the city centre. The charge points are part of the ESB charging infrastructure network,which is being rolled out in retail parks, service stations as well as on-street and off-street car parks and in the homes of electric car motorists. Drivers can pre-book a designated electric car parking space online www.q-park.ie or call 01 8788957.


20 GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY LUCAN: NEW SHOWHOUSE ADDED TO RANGE OF HOMES ON OFFER

Offers galore at Adamstown Park

The Solace dining set from Belleek Living

CLASSIC HOMEWARES: FOR THE CHRISTMAS LIST

Belleek Living add style to interior design BELLEEK Living’s range of classy homewares has something for everyone, and here we have picked some of the top items from their range that might just appear on a Christmas list or two... Belleek’s Solace tableware is a distinctive square tableware design that will add a touch of style to any dining table. The 12-piece set includes 4 bowls, 4 dinner plates and 4 side plates and retails for €140. Designed to complement the Solace tableware is a 44-piece Solace cutlery set, for €99, comprising of six table forks, table knives, soup spoons, dessert forks, dessert knives, dessert spoons, teaspoons and two serving spoons Lighting has proven a highly popular recent addition to the Belleek Living Homeware and Christmas 2011 sees the introduction of a number of new lamp designs, including the Rose lamp and shade, which features a floral relief design on the ceramic base for €70, and the Eclipse lamp and shade for €75, which features a lined design which emerges from the bottom of the base. At 49 centimetres high, this lamp will create an impact in a living room or hallway. There is also the Elegance Frame and Lines Champagne Flutes gift set, a combination of an 8 x 10 Silver Elegance photo frame and a pair of Lines Champagne flutes for €140, The perfect gift for a special couple at Christmas The Belleek Living range is available from leading giftware and tableware retailers. For futher information, visit www.belleek.ie.

CASTLETHORN Homes have revealed their latest showhouse, a four-bedroom home at the Adamstown Park development in Lucan for the bargain price of £215,000. The development is a small cul-de-sac of just 16 four-bed houses, which are generously sized at over 1,550 sq ft and extend over three floors. To the front a featured wrought-iron gate leads through a landscaped front garden to an attractive hall door. The ground floor comprises a wellappointed kitchen with all appliances included, and a family room. The first floor is dominated by a spacious sit-

ting room with featured bay window. This floor also contains the main bedroom and en suite. The upper floor contains three further bedrooms and a large family bathroom. To the rear is a private garden and parking spaces. Competitively priced, the developers have also made buying easy by permitting no deposit to be paid until purchasers actually move in; very handy if you are currently renting, saving, or have a smaller house to sell. In addition, Castlethorn has reduced the prices of its remaining homes in Adamstown

One of the attractive kitchens at Adamstown Park

Castle and Adamstown Square. You can now buy a two-bedroom apartment from €135,000, a three-bedroom duplex home from €165,000, or a three-bedroom ground level duplex from

£185,000. All homes are designed to comply with Sustainable Energy Ireland’s House of Tomorrow in terms of their energy efficiency ratios. Viewing times are

daily from 10am to 5pm, and weekends from 3 to 5pm, and viewings can be arranged by contacting Martina Dillon at mdillon@leahyproperty. ie or by telephone on 01 601 1811.

CARRICKMINES: RANGE OF PROPERTIES FOR SALE IN DEVELOPMENT

All Manor of homes for sale in Carrick

DOUGLAS Newman Good are bringing to the market a selection of two-bedroom apartments, three-bedroom duplexes and four-bedroom townhouses in Carrickmines Manor, on Glenamuck Road. T he proper ties on offer are in a highly sought after area that benefits from a multitude of amenities and facilities, sporting and leisure pursuits, numerous shopping centres and reknowned primary and secondary schools, as well as transpor t links to the city and beyond. T he proper ties on offer are at a range of price points, from €160,000 for the twobedroom apartments, from €257,500 for the three-bedroom duplexes and from €295,000 for the four-bedroom

townhouses. All of the units are built to a high standard and have a number of common features. The apartments have highgloss ivor y kitchens and there are cherrywood kitchens fitted in the duplexes, while both apartments and duplexes have black granite worktops and integrated appliances.

Fittings The townhouses feature fitted high-gloss units combined with frosted glass units, complemented by stylish brushed chrome handles and polished stone worktops. The bathrooms and en suites are all fitted with stylish white sanitary ware, with heated towel rails and extensive floor and wall tiling.

Heating in the properties range from energy-efficient electric storage heating in apartments, to natural gas-fired central heating in the houses and

duplexes. There is recessed lighting in the kitchens, bathrooms and ensuites, while the properties also come with a Premier Structural

Guarantee or Global Home Warranties. For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Gina Kennedy of Douglas Newman Good on 01 4912600.

A range of apartments, duplexes and townhouses are being brought to the market by Douglas Newman Good at Carrickmines Manor


20 October 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Aidan Mahon, Just Classes creator

Getting fit, one class at a time AIDAN Mahon is from a very old Malahide family, which had a newsagent, Maurice Mahons, in Malahide for many years. His grandmother even sold newspapers there at the turn of the century. The family closed Maurice Mahons in 2004. It was the same year that Aidan started doing personnel training in a studio in his home. Aidan recently brought a revolutionary diet system, the System 10

Plan, to his Malahide fitness studio, Just Classses. Aidan played football with St Sylvesters for 25 years, and he is currently doing a degree in strength and conditioning. He is also involved with a company that does GPS fitness testing, and has worked with Cork and Dublin hurlers, Munster and Connaught rugby and is currently monitoring Kilmacud Crokes senior footballers.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS SUB PRIME LOAN Q – I have a €240,000 loan with a sub-prime lender taken out six years ago. At that time, I had missed a couple of repayments on my car loan and my adviser said the mainstream lenders would not consider me for a loan. I did not really understand the consequences – all I wanted was a home for my family. I have maintained the repayments every month but am now beginning to feel the pinch – my interest rate is 7.5% and I am paying €1,678 per month at the moment. I could save over € 600 a month by moving to a high street lender. What are my chances ? David - Clontarf A – The Irish Credit Bureau (ICB) in Clonskeagh Dublin 14 is a lender’s first port of call to check your credit history. Missed payments stay on record for five years, but, if you have kept the nose clean these past five Aidan Mahon of Malahide’s Just Classes

years, then you may have a case to swap back to a normal lender. The whole idea of sub-prime was a kind of

Q&A Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be? A: A jockey Q: What was your first job? A: Delivering newspapers Q: And your first pay cheque? A: 2 and 6 Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed? A: no Q: When did you start your present job? A: 2004

purgatory – you did your penance but after a while, you were allowed to come back into the fold. Here is your

A: I don’t delegate

A: Beethovens 5th symphony,

A: Dame edna, no change that

checklist to see if you qualify with a high-street lender :

Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be? A: My dog

karaoke version

to enda, aussies very disingenuous when we beat them in rugby world cup

1. Check with the ICB to see if your credit record is now

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously? A: TK Maxx

valuation of your home should be in excess of €300,000

Q: Is there anything about yoursefl that you would like to set the record straight on? A: The money was resting in my account

Q: What sport do you follow? A: Gaelic football Q: What sport can you play? A: Gaelic football

Q: What is the best thing about your job? A: Seeing and helping people

Q: What habits would you like to lose? A: Being untidy

achieve their weightloss goals

Q: At the moment, what are you looking forward to? A: Dublin winning the all Ire-

Q: Have you ever achieved anything that you once thought you could not pull off? A: No Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’?

land again next year

Q: What is your guilty music, TV or movie pleasure?

Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward? A: Jedward, no one writes letters anymore

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: Don’t have either Q: Who do you follow on twitter/facebook? A: Don’t do either Q: What was your last tweet/ facebook status? A: As above Q: Describe your dream meal? A: Burger and chips in the diamond burger bar malahide

Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna?

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own? A: Five Q: What was your worst holiday experience? A: Joey the Lips’ stag

clear. 2. Ensure the loan to value is less than 80% - so the based on your € 240,000 mortgage. 3. Your joint income should be between € 53,000 to €60,000, or the same amount if the only earner in the home. 4. You will need P60, pay slips and status enquiry form along with 12 months current account bank statements AND your sub prime loan statements plus any other current loan statements.

Q: Describe your dream holiday? A: A month in Argentina

ONE-YEAR INVESTMENT

Q: What would be your dream job? A: Racehorse trainer

you suggest – An Post, bank deposit or would I be

Q: What do you plan to do when you retire? A: Get fat

A – Unless your cash flow is poor, then you can certainly

Q – Where can I get the best return on € 15,000? I don’t need this sum for at least a year. What would better off putting a lump sum off my interest-only tracker mortgage ? Mollie – Lucan better the return on a deposit account than paying off your tracker mortgage (ECB is 1.5% currently – and going down too - and with your margin say 1%, a total of 2.5%). Add the DIRT tax, and you would have to earn less

AIB getting on board with start-ups AIB has announced details of a new initiative with the Chamber Network in Ireland. This initiative provides new AIB Business Start-Up customers with a 50% discount on their first year’s annual membership of their local affiliated Chamber. The affiliated Chamber Network is the largest Irish business network with 45 affiliated Chambers around the country, and 13,000 business members.

This offer aims to provide new AIB Business Start-up customers with the support and advice they need to help them get their business up and running by giving customers access to an established local business network to build sound business connections for the future. Local Chamber membership provides excellent networking and business development opportunities for AIB Business Start-up customers.

These start-ups will have the prospect to join a unique network focused on representing the interests of member businesses and growing sales opportunities for all members.

Support This support offer provided by the Chamber Network is one element of the AIB Business Start-up Package which has been specifically tailored to meet the needs of new and early stage businesses.

Other elements of the package include:

than 3.42% for the year to justify paying off the mortgage. I would warn you though you should try and start capital repayments – interest-only payments only kick the can down the road. You will eventually have to pay the capital over a shorter period ( therefore greater repayments). Best one-year deposits in the meantime? AIB Bank and

Special two-year Current Account fee offer Online banking services -

Permanent TSB offer a 12 month fixed at 3.95%. After that at 3.75% is Investec Bank and Nationwide UK at 3,65%. Stretching it out for a further year to three-

two years free subscription

years investment would include An Post’s Savings

to iBusiness Banking or

Bond – 10% tax free, equivalent to 4.42% from a DIRT

registration to AIB Phone and

deducting deposit taker.

Internet Banking AIB Classic Visa Business Card

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at

AIB Business Overdraft

www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the

SME Loan for Start-up

Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing

Businesses

director of Money Doctor


22 GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL What’sHappening

In October, Spain celebrates the Safron Rose Fiesta

October in Spain, a good time for festivals, parties, gastronomy and traditions AUTUMN is a fantastic time in Spain for fiestas, with many on offer. Choose from the Saffron Rose Fiesta, All SaintsHallowee’n or Festival of St Martin. Consuegra, in the province of Toledo, celebrates the Saffron Rose Fiesta at the end of October. It aims to promote the cultural essence of Castile-La Mancha through its gastronomy, crafts, history and traditions. The event offers a highly varied programme, starting with the proclamation by Dulcinea and the Maids of Honour. Especially outstanding during the celebrations are the Grinding of Peace and Love, where a 16th-century windmill grinds wheat to make flour; the traditional La Mancha gastronomy event; the Saffron Rose harvesting competition, where participants have to separate the saffron from the flower in the least time possible, and a Folk Festival with groups from all over the region. Saffronproducers are the main protagonists of this fiesta, which has been held since 1963. Exhibitions, cultural activities and sporting competitions complete the programme. On All Saints day, Spanish families visit the local cemeteries in order to remember their dead relatives and friends. Floral offerings, particularly chrysanthemums, are placed on the graves. It is a ritual to remembrance and homage the ancestors.

The Catholic Church believes that the holiday stems from the decision of Pope Boniface IV to enshrine the “Pantheon” the cult of the Virgin and the martyrs. “It commemorated the saints thus anonymous and unknown to most of Christendom”. The current celebration of Halloween has little to do with its origins. It has become the festival of the dead but with a totally different character and adding elements that have distorted the party. Among the additions is the tradition of dressing up, possibly born in France between the XIV and XV to celebrate the Feast of All Saints. Every November 11, Aller celebrates one of the most popular autumn folklore festivals in Asturias. The festival is organised by the San Martin Humanitarian Association and begins with the traditional sung Mass of San Martin, accompanied by the sound of the typical Asturian bagpipes. Then, the auction, known as the Puya del Ramu begins, where people are invited to bid for the emmer bread which has previously been blessed in the religious service. The high point of the festivity is the great communal feast of San Martin, which consists of fabada, typical Asturian white bean stew casadiellas, and panchon typical sweets from Aller.

Roving Gazette reporter, Hiromi Mooney, has just returned from a fact-finding mission to the island of Malta. In what turned out to be a most revealing visit, she experienced far more than just stunning blue sea, golden beaches and a balmy 300C. THE GREY clouds are well and truly gathering here in Ireland, but you can escape it all and enjoy some last-minute rays of sunshine in Malta. A stunning island, that’s only a three-and-a-half hour flight away, Malta has lots to offer in the way of beaches, culture and food. Malta, Gozo and Comino make up the Maltese islands in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. The islands are bursting with culture and are rooted with deep traditions – being ruled in the past by Normans, Roman Catholics and Arabs, to name but a few. Everywhere you look is another golden-beige building shimmering in the heat. Surrounded by a crystal clear, aqua-blue sea dotted with white sails of yachts, the Maltese islands are a sunshine paradise. For Irish holidaymakers, the added bonuses are that the currency is the euro and the official language is both English and Maltese. With 40% of the population working in the tourism sector, the Maltese are a friendly people and are extremely helpful and deliver excellent service to ensure that you enjoy all that the islands have to offer. The peak summer months in Malta reach 500C, so, for anyone looking for a warm but tolerable climate, anytime from late September is

Palazzo Parisio garden

ideal, as temperatures range between 20 and 300C. With more than 365 churches and chapels dotted around the islands, the Maltese islands offer a spiritual retreat away from the highpaced city life. The beaches and the sea are an obvious attraction in Malta, but the islands are also bursting with historical and cultural sites. A must-see place is Mdina. This town is set in a walled fort, and was Malta’s first capital city during the time of the Knights of Malta, and is often called The Silent City. Since only around 400 people live here, only residents are allowed to drive their cars inside the town, so you can enjoy a nice walk. Malta’s capital city, Valletta, has many tourist attractions, including St John’s Co-Cathedral. The Cathedral is known as Home of The Knights (Grand Masters) of Malta for a good reason. It was built in 1571 and there are almost 400 tombstones of the knights buried beneath its floors. The walls are gilded with 24-carat gold leaf, the ceilings are elaborately decorated and there are many carved statues. There are also two paintings here by Caravaggio – one of which is his only signed painting.

The island of Gozo is a 25-minute ferry ride from Malta. It is smaller and more rural, with most of the island’s inhabitants involved in farming or fishing

-------------------------------

Surrounded by a crystal clear, aqua blue sea dotted with white sails of yachts, the Maltese islands are a sunshine paradise. -------------------------------

Also in Valletta is the Grand Master’s Palace, where the Maltese Parliament and President sit. The corridors are lined with knight armoury and portrait paintings. The Church of St. Mary in Mosta cannot be skipped, as it is considered to be home to a miracle. In 1942, during World War II, a German bomb fell through the dome ceiling and skidded across the floor. However, it did not explode, and although the church was crowded at the time, no one was killed or injured. The

bomb has been defused and is on display for visitors to see the potential damage it could have caused. For a beautiful view of the harbour, visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Exciting A new tourist attraction in Malta is the segway tours. It’s an exciting and unique to see the city, and are commonly seen used by police men in Malta. Full instructions, a practise run and helmets will be provided, and prices start from €60 for 90 minutes. For booking information, visit www.segwaymalta.com. The slogan, Once Seen, Never Forgotten, of Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar really says it all. It is a family-owned house and gardens that have been passed down through the generations, and the present owners have opened it up for the public to enjoy. The house has a captivating beauty about it, and is full


20 October 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

The beauty and joy of Malta

TravelBriefs Super ski bundle deal for January getaway THIS offer from travel counsellor Dairine McGarrity includes return flights, seven nights accommodation, transfers, skis or snowboard, boots, lift pass and all taxes. Austria: Depart from Dublin or Cork on January 7, and spend a week skiing in the pretty village of Westendorf. Stay in the Angerer apartments on

contact the Northern Ireland Tourist Board on callsave 1850 230 230, or visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

Rail-y good breaks in Northern Ireland LEAVE the car at home this autumn and enjoy a relaxing break in Northern Ireland from only £75pps* and avail of 1st Plus rail travel on the Enter-

Special ski deals from Dairine McGarrity

Staying there: RADISSON Blu Resort at St Julians in Malta is a luxurious getaway suitable for families, couples or for business trips. The five-star hotel features rooms with balconies overlooking the Mediterranean Sea or the outdoor pool. The buffet breakfast gives you the option to sit indoors or in the sunshine at the poolside, and there are three restaurants and two bars to choose from. The hotel is just a 10-minute walk away from the nightlife in St Julians. Phoenicia Hotel Malta in Valletta is a beautiful five-star hotel for both business and pleasure. It is also a romantic spot for an unforgettable fairy-tale wedding experience.

of elaborate chandeliers and decorations. Outside is just as spectacular, with a walled garden full of hibiscus syriacus, bougainvillea and cascading geraniums. Cafe Luna delivers fine outdoor dining at its best. To try out a tranquil winetasting experience, a visit to Meridiana Wine Estate is per-

fect. Sitting on 47 acres of land with more than 90,000 vines, they produce “World Class Wines of Maltese Character”. The island of Gozo is just 25 minutes away from Cirkewwa in Malta by ferry, and the return trip costs only €4.65. The majority of the island’s inhabitants work in farming

and fishing as the island is smaller and more rural than Malta. The Ggantija Temple is a UNESCO protected world heritage site. It is made of large slabs of rock fitted together like a jigsaw, and is one of the oldest buildings in the world, dating from around 3,500BC.

A natural attraction is The Azure Window, which is a natural rock archway at the end of a cliff through which you can admire the dark blue sea. Ta Mena Wine Estate offers visitors a wine tasting experience under the Maltese sunshine. The Estate also offers accommodation, tours, local food and produce, and also caters for functions and weddings. For more information, visit www.tamena-gozo.com. In Mdina, the restaurant Ciappetti offers a peaceful atmosphere as you dine in the courtyard, under the shade of a variety of leaves and plants. In Vittoriosa, the Riviera Della Marina Restaurant allows you to dine at the waterfront overlooking countless numbers of yachts. On a hot sunny day, you can enjoy something light and refreshing, like a melon and parma ham salad. For more information about the Maltese islands, visit www. visitmalta.com

self-catering basis from €749pp based on four adults sharing. Italy: Depart on January 7 from Dublin and stay seven nights in the Livigno apartments on self-catering basis from €689pp based on three sharing Limited availability – call today to book. For other ski destinations, there is a three-day sale currently running with prices from €302, not including ski packs. Call Dairine McGarrity on 01 2915153 for more details, or visit www.travelcounsellors.ie/dairine.mcgarrity.

Enjoy an arty two-night break in Belfast AS PART of the 130th annual Royal Ulster Academy Exhibition a number of artists will arrive to the Ulster Museum to talk about their work. These free events include talks by Rosie McGurran, Mark Shields, Barbara Freeman, Hector McDonnell and Mick O’Dea. While visiting the museum why not turn your trip into a short break by taking advantage of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s (NITB) special accommodation offer at the Wellington Park Hotel, Belfast, with two nights’ accommodation, breakfast and one evening meal from £89pps. For further information

prise. Sit back and relax on the Enterprise from Dublin Connolly to Belfast Central Station, enjoy accommodation in a selection of 3, 4 and 5-star hotels across Northern Ireland, including the Ramada Encore in Belfast and Armagh City Hotel, and three days unlimited Metro, Ulsterbus and NI Railways travel. To find out more information on these great value breaks, or for further information on things to see and do in Northern Ireland, check out the free booking and advice service and callsave 1850 230 230, visit Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s (NITB) Tourist Information Centre in Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 or click on www.discovernorthernireland.com. *Subject to availability.

Spa offer in Galway THE FIVE-star g Hotel is celebrating its 6th birthday as Galway’s leading designer hotel with an irresistible offer. Book two consecutive nights to avail of their birthday rate, including full Irish breakfast and receive one pass per person to ESPA at the g’s glorious thermal suite. Cost is from €60 per person sharing per night. Offer is subject to availability on selected dates from Sunday to Thursday. Visit www.theghotel.ie


24 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Shipwrecked

IRELAND’s role as a landscape for a fugitive Spanish captain from a shipwrecked Armada galleon is explored in this innovative musical theatre event at The Pavilion theatre in Dun Laoghaire, which fuses Spanish music of the 16th century with Irish music of the same period, alongside instrumental and vocal music from Elizabethan England. An unforgettable night of music will feature more than a dash of improvised creativity, creating a shipwreck for the audience to linger around. Catch Shipwrecked on Thursday, October 20 at 8pm, with tickets costing €17/€15.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 The Magic of Take That

TAKE That fans are in for a treat when “the band” take to the stage in Dundrum, promosing to bring some of “their” best-known hits to south Dublin fans. All of their hits will be played, as the performers run through many of Take That’s repertoire – backed up tracks from a certain Mr Williams. So, for a Take That band you’ll be delighted by, you’re invited to let them entertain you on Sunday, October 23, at 8pm, with tickets costing €15.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 My Way

GARVAN Gallagher’s commendable exhibition examines the “invisible” status of older citizens, with a diverse range of work examing the status and self-image of our elders. Whether personal texts, short films, or even fashion shoots replacing younger models with more mature citizens, My Way is an excellent, diverse project underlining how valuable our “invisible” citizens are. My Way runs at Driaocht’s ground floor gallery until Saturday, November 5.

These two sleeping sisters are a picture of domestic bliss in Paranormal Activity 3 - until you learn that there’s nobody else in the room so who, or what, is casting that impossible shadow on the wall? All will be revealed, thanks to video cameras around their home ...

Not a haunting film This latest addition to the franchise doesn’t leave Kate spooked, but has a ghost of a chance at Dublin cinemas Q KATE CROWLEY

THERE are many things in life that scare me. The Eurozone-wide fiscal malaise. Mr Crowley‘s idea of a tidy kitchen. But the Paranormal Activity films? Ah, no, no. Seemingly cooked up by Hollywood execs who thought that mixing Most Haunted with Amityville would be box office gold – well, actually, the previous films in the series have done well enough, now that I think of it. Deciding that “actual found video footage” scenes would be a plausible, engaging way to make a thoroughly modern ghost story, the filmmakers certainly did their best to exorcise audiences’ minds with the previous films in the series. The plots have been similar enough, to a certain degree: Couple/ family move into a new place, only for things to go bump in the night. Cue

FILM OF THE WEEK: Paranormal Activity 3 +++ (15A) 84 mins Directors: Henry Joost, Ariel Schulman Starring: Christopher Nicholas Smith, Katie Featherston, Sprague Grayden, Lauren Bittner, one determined spook

OUR VERDICT: POSSESSED with an interesting idea for a prequel, the third addition to the popular series is an improvement over its predecessors. Paranormal Activity 3 is a diverting enough romp through a haunted house tale, proving that, as always, if you live by yourself but hear scratching on the other side of a door – whether it’s an empty room or a wardrobe – don‘t open it…

the use of video cameras to record what’s going on all around the house/ apartment. Cue footage of doors shutting by themselves in empty rooms, furniture moving around, impossible shadows in rooms, eerie noises from the attic/basement, and much more … Oh, if only they’d moved into the house where Casper The Friendly Ghost lived! (Or unlived, if The Gazette subs will let that one pass.) With this well-established template to work from, and following a

recent trend for trilogies, the filmmakers have decided that the third film should be a prequel. Linking two of the chief protagonists from the first two films, the film jumps back to the late 1980s, when they were both children, and to the start of the “fun” that would follow them into their adulthood. Dad, Dennis (Christopher Smith) is a wedding videographer living with his wife and their two little girls in a suburban house. His job gives a very plausible way for the film

to be set up, as, intrigued by the strange things that begin to happen around the house (such as the “trick” of knocking on a wardrobe door, only to hear a knock back from the inside a moment later), Dennis sets up video cameras around the home. He uses his videographer skills to film and document the ordinary family’s life – and the extraordinary things that seem to be happening. Of course, the girls’ new imaginary friend that they seem able to see, and with whom they play the knock-knock game and more, soon decides to leave the grown-ups (and, presumably, the audience) increasingly spooked. It isn’t long before it’s throwing a supernatural strop around the house, targeting them and the Inevitable Spirit Expert Guy they call in (who, presumably, had better rates than the Ghostbusters).

Seemingly possessed (geddit?) by the spirit of Shaggy and Scooby Doo, it’s not long before the freaked-out family decide that home sweet home ain’t all it’s cracked up to be – but, in a turn of events that you don’t have to be Derek Acorah to predict, things don’t end well … Actually, I have to admit a grudging admiration for the prequel’s set-up, as using a videographer in this way adds a certain level of credibility that the other films lacked, and there are plenty of interesting scenes throughout. Of course, as someone who has to face my bathroom’s weighing scales on a regular basis, I’m made of sterner stuff than most, so it‘s not a film to spook me out. However, if you’re looking for a ghost story with a difference, this one should leave you feeling chilled – in an appropriately unnerved way …


20 October 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING A dead certain hit for Capcom – again SHANE DILLON

IN WHAT has turned into a curious case of almost “Zombie of the Week” reviews — perhaps ahead of the upcoming “Shooter of the Week” battles due between a number of well-known titles — there seem to have been a whole range of zombie-related titles shuffling into sight, and around the charts, in recent times. As much as gamers like zombies, I think we’ve had just about enough of them by now, in a genre which, much like its subject matter, simply won‘t die – rest assured that this is the last zombiethemed anything to shuffle onto these pages for some time to come. Still, I couldn’t let this title pass, as there’s an interesting story behind this occasionally darkhearted, yet over-the-top and slightly comic franchise. Capcom’s multi-platform title, Dead Rising: Off the Record, is the latest in a series of openworld survival horror titles, yet defined with comic moments and, in this case, sees the return of goofball photojournalist, Frank West. Following a substantial zombie outbreak some years ago, Frank initially roamed around a giant shopping mall, snooping and scooping the news as he uncovered what was happening, while at the same time trying to rescue and save survivors, and avoid becoming lunch, himself. Frank – a slightly out of shape, not especially heroic character – ran around using everything in the mall to stay alive, with the menace of being eaten by zombies being substantially lightened

Bytesandpieces Nintendo hoping for a Wii push PERHAPS in a bid to make up for the surprisingly disappointing sales of the 3DS, Nintendo are soon to launch a redesigned Wii console, with the console expected to hit retailers next month. Still performing solidly enough, despite a relative drought in original or must-have titles, the “new” Wii will be largely similar to the existing model, save for some hardware reconfigurations that most purchasers most likely won’t notice. I certainly hope that a new Wii can help put a fair wind back behind the company’s sales sails once again – but, please, no more Zumba games...

While an entirely new Wii console is on the way, a slightly redesigned version is also set for release

Frank West (above, and right) returns to the Dead Rising series for his latest adventure, which sees the wrestler-cum-photojournalist attempt to y uncover the truth behind some zombie-related activities across Fortune City

by, say, slapping them in the face with frying pans, dropping traffic cones over their heads, making them fall over on scattered marbles – pure Tom And Jerry stuff.

Enclosed setting The inevitable sequel, Dead Rising 2, saw a new protagonist with a different back story running around an enclosed Las Vegas-style setting, with “Fortune City” providing a much larger, yet similar, world in which to

rescue survivors, uncover a major plot, and stay alive. However, fans had been clamouring for the cult figure of Frank to return, and now, following a couple of spin-off digital download episodes (and even guest roles in a number of other Capcom games) he returns as the star in a cheekily rejigged version of the preceding title, which, now, takes place at the same time, yet in a different, standalone

fashion. Still with me? And so, although the title is still very much an adult game (as facing down thousands of zombies is, inevitably, going to be a messy task), fans and gamers will welcome the paunchy character’s return. The wisecracking hack’s gameplay style sees him photographing key points of interest to earn him major PP, or experience, points to help level up – an entertainingly fun activity.

Off the Record is of greatest interest as something that’s almost a carbon copy of its predecessor title. While standing on its own merits, it’s curious that we’re seeing such a rejigged title being released like this, almost as a twin of the earlier title. Still, given gamers’ interest in Frank, and in the particular style of this franchise, it’s likely to be a dead-certain hit for Capcom, again.


GAZETTE

26 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 20 October 2011

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20 October 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

BACK ON TRACK: We catch up with former World Champ Bernard Dunne Page 29

MOTOR RACING: SWORDS DRIVER OPENS NEW CIRCUIT IN TAIWAN IN NEW F1 CAR

Thompson has the Formula for making history sport@gazettegroup.com

SWORDS man Gar y Thompson helped to officially open Taiwan’s all-new Penbay International Circuit in spectacular style last weekend when he got behind the wheel of a two-seater Formula 1 car. The 19-year-old driver, who has spent the 2011 season contesting the Japanese Formula 3 championship, became the youngest Irishman

in history to drive a modern grand prix car, as well as the first from any nation to pilot one in Taiwan, after accepting an invitation to offer distinguished guests passenger rides at the 3.5km circuit’s opening. It was also an opportunity for Thompson to catch up with team personnel from KCMG who, having overseen his 2011 single-seater campaign, were now

sampling their first taste of running Formula 1 machinery. It was also a new experience for the thousands of fans in attendance, many of whom had never witnessed a grand prix car in the flesh before. This was just another day at the office for T hompson who, despite the wet conditions, enjoyed his time behind the wheel of the Minardi F1x2, which

Local driver, Gary Thompson, was the youngest ever Irish driver to race an F1 car in Taiwan

produces in excess of 700bhp thanks to its r a c e - d e r i ve d 3 - l i t r e Cosworth V10 engine. “The car has a lot of power which can be difficult to exploit in the wet, but I know the cir-

cuit and KCMG CEOs enjoyed the wheelspin regardless. I’ve been racing in Asia for the past three seasons, so to be the first person to drive a Formula 1 car in Taiwan is personally

extremely rewarding,” said Thompson. “Penbay International Circuit is a great venue with a lot of potential in a part of the world that is really beginning to embrace motor sport.

Everyone at the track did a fantastic job to get it up to standard in time for the event. You never know, I might be back here one day putting my local knowledge to good use!”


28 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

RUGBY: WESLEY MOVE UP TO FIFTH PLACE IN AIL DIVISION 2A

Naomh Olaf’s G4M team. Picture GAA pics.com

Gaelic 4Mothers have a fantastic blitz day Old Wesley shone in the ideal conditions as they put Midleton to the sword with their bonus point performance at home

OVER 900 women took part in the Gaelic4Mothers and Others national blitz day in Portmarnock last Saturday. Gaelic4Mothers & Others is a national development initiative of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) which has taken Ireland by storm in the last few years. The central aim of the initiative is to provide all Irish women with a pathway to play ladies’ Gaelic regardless of their age or ability. It is a recreational and non-competitive form of ladies’ football which is open to any woman over 18 who is not currently playing adult competitive football with a club. Despite the name, women do not have to be a mother to participate. One of the key elements of Gaelic4Mothers & Others is the community support network that it creates for women and the positive physical and mental impact that it has on the day-to-day lives of participants. The National Blitz Day is the biggest day on the Gaelic4Mothers & Others calendar. This year, 74 teams participated which resulted in approximately 900 women getting their football boots on for the day. Teams came from every province in Ireland. Participants had a fantastic day of football and also enjoyed strolling around the exhibitor marquees. For more information in Gaelic4Mothers & Others visit www.ladiesgaelic.ie. The event coincided with the first day of National Mental Health week, which the Ladies Gaelic Football Association celebrated with the announcement of a new partnership with Mental Health Ireland. For more information, visit www. mentalhealth.ie.

Wes’ pip a Midleton ULSTER BANK DIV 2A Old Wesley Midleton

45 10

sport@gazettegroup.com

A RECORD haul of 30 points for winger Barry McLaughlin helped Old Wesley record a bonuspoint win over Midleton at Donnybrook last weekend, a result which lifts the side to fifth place in the division, and five points behind leaders DLSP after three rounds of matches. In ideal conditions, Midleton kicked off into a slight breeze and the home side immediately showed their intent by flashing the ball along their back line and setting McLaughlin free, only to be stopped short by the covering defence. The opening quarter hour produced some good expansive back play

from both sides, entertaining the small crowd. Old Wesley edged ahead on 17 minutes when winger Ross Johnson breached the visitor’s defence to touch down for an unconverted try. With the Wesley pack producing good, quick ball from both the set piece and loose exchanges, the three-quarter line flourished, ably orchestrated by veteran fly-half Dan van Zyl, who had an excellent game throughout. With full-back Rory Stynes and centre Steven Harvey running inspired lines, the home side frequently breached the Midleton defence. The sides went on to exchange penalty goals. On the half hour, however, Stynes finished off a slick move started by van Zyl and involving a line

break by Harvey, before McLaughlin converted to put Wesley further ahead. Despite several further forays deep into the visitors’ territory, the Midleton defence held firm, leaving the score at the interval 15–3 in Wesley’s favour. Three early penalties from McLaughlin’s boot stretched the lead out to 24–3 within ten minutes of the restart. With a steady scrum built on the solid front row platform of Tristan Goodbody, Matt Crockett and Simon Goldsmith, and a gradually improving line-out, in which second row Iain McGann and No 8 Richard Murphy were prominent, Old Wesley increased the pressure on the visitors in search of the bonus point.

Somewhat against the run of play, and facilitated by a lapse of concentration in the home defence, Midleton fought their way back into the match with a converted try entering the final quarter. However, any doubts in the home support were soon dissipated as McLaughlin twice outpaced the Midleton defence for converted tries, and van Zyl darted over close to the posts. McLaughlin again con-

verted with the final act of an entertaining game. DLSP, meanwhile, picked up a second bonus-point win of the campaign to head up the table after three rounds of games. Adam Philpott, Conor Power, Phil de Barra and Karl Moran all crossed for tries in an imposing 38-21 win over Clonakilty at Kirwan Park, as they passed the 100-point mark for the campaign at this early stage.


20 October 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 29

in association with

Forza Bernard! Back on track Former world champion Bernard Dunne is relishing using his new celebrity status to impart his knowledge to a new generation STEPPING away from the sport that has defined you for the majority of your life is never a simple thing, especially when you have reached the pinnacle of that sport and been the champion of the world. But for former superbantamweight world champion, Bernard Dunne, the new lease of life away from the ring is very much agreeing with him, and opening up a whole new career path for the Neilstown man. GazetteSport caught up with the champ as he prepared to get behind the wheel at Mondello Park when he took part in the launch of the new XBox 360 game, Forza

Motorsport 4. “One of the privileges of being retired now means that I get to enjoy the things I want to do. Kieran Donaghy and I are heading down there

assimilate the defeat by top contender Poonsawat Kratingdaenggym, was the right one for him. “I’m adapting to life away from the fight game. Life is good and it has

--------------------------------------------------------

‘I want to get involved and do something that will influence kids for the better, give them some sort of belief in themselves’ --------------------------------------------------------

to play some games and maybe do some driving, so it’s another chance for a Dub to beat him today!” Dunne was also sure that his decision to retire, having taken time to

Formula 1 enthusiasts Kieran Donaghy, Kerry footballer, and Bernard Dunne, unveiled the latest installment of Forza Motorsport 4 at Mondello Park

changed, it was the right decision at the right time. And things are going well for me, I can’t complain. “I’ve not got back involved in boxing myself. My dad does a lot of coaching a couple of nights a week with the kids at Palmerstown, but I’m not rushing back into the sport. I’ll cover it for TV, but getting involved myself, other than getting training again soon, isn’t something that’ll happen overnight. I’m out of the ring long enough to know there’s no chance of a comeback!” Dunne is very much defined by the city he comes from, and his allegiance to the Neilstown area and Dublin as a whole is undeniable. He is also very much involved in using his celebrity for good, setting up bernarddunnecharities.com and adding his presence to raising monies for causes close to his heart in the city.

“I worked with Jimmy McGee last year, and this year we ran a soccer event and a gala dinner up at Citywest for Pieta House. That’s a charity close to ourselves in Lucan and close to myself. The basis of the event is to give them as much support as we can and give them as much awareness among the public as we can. “We had Packy Bonner, Paul McGrath, Ray Houghton and many more - Celtic’s Anthony Stokes took some time out to take part, and it was a brilliant day.” Always funny and ebullient, Dunne’s easy charm combined with his desire to give something back makes him an ideal person to appear in the media to promote causes and support young people, something that has led to an exciting upcoming project for the boxing hero. “I’ve been busy promoting things, public speaking and media work with radio and television. I’ve been working with RTE on a young people’s programme, on how to focus and push themselves, in order to achieve what they want to achieve, called Ultimate Street Challenge. “We took 10 teenagers from all over the country, set them up in Dublin, and I set them challenges they had to accomplish, whether they were physical, mental, working as a

team or working as individuals. It was about seeing how they adapted and how they applied themselves. There was a kid from Tallaght who takes place in the show - but you’ll need to wait until it’s on the air before you find out how they get on! “In the boxing club, my dad trains the kids, and he enjoys that a lot. For my dad, its’ about keeping the kids occupied, busy and off the street, as well as giving them something to work towards. “He’s teaching them as well how to behave, boxing instills that in kids. It gives them a discipline and a focus, as well as a belief that they can do something for themselves, that they can achieve, and that’s a part of what I brought to the TV show. “I’ve said for a long time now, that I do the media stuff, but there is a part of me that wants to get involved and do something that will influence kids for the better, give them some sort of belief in themselves. I’m just a kid from Neilstown made good, and if I can do it, then anyone can do it. “If you apply yourself and work hard, and never mind what anyone says about you or where you come from, if you believe in it and work had, things can really happen for you, and you can make what you want to achieve into a reality.”

FastSport

Egan to decide Olympic and World Series future NEILSTOWN hero Kenneth Egan may be fighting out of Germany in the next season of the World Series of Boxing, as he looks set to sign with the Leipzig Leopards after the collapse of the Miami Gallos franchise. With the next season of the WSB due to begin on November 11, Egan is expected to drop back down from heavyweight to the WSB light-heavy limit of 85kg for the new season. Egan’s decision is also contingent on his approach to qualification for the Olympic Games next year, following Joe Ward’s failure to qualify for London 2012 at the recent world championships. The light heavyweight berth is still vacant, and Egan has an opportunity to claim his place by claiming the senior title in the Irish National championships in April next year.

Celtic seeking new keeper Esker Celtic Over-35s are looking for a new goalkeeper. If you fancy having a laugh, and the occasional Saturday afternoon game of football, contact Ron on 087 974 8263, and for more information, see eskerceltic.ie.

Roche ends season on high NICOLAS Roche produced another excellent performance to add to his fine run of late season results in Gran Piemonte as he took fifth place, just

six days after winning stage three of the Tour of Beijing. The Dundrum man finished in the breakaway group of the 199km race, coming home in fifth in 14-rider sprint. Katusha’s Dani Moreno took the win from a high-quality group which included Paris-Tours winner Gerg van Avermaet and long-time Tour de France yellow jersey holder, Thomas Voeckler. Roche was the sole rider in the top places to have contested the Tour of Beijing, and provided another boost for Irish cycling ahead of the Tour of Lombardy.


30 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Local stars help Ireland to UEFA U-17 Elite place

Local students assist Leinster to title sport@gazettegroup.com

CLONKEEN College students Ryan Matthews and Paul Moffat were both on hand to help Leinster secure their 11th title in 13 years when they landed the FAI Schools Under-18 Boys’ Interprovincial title after a pulsating conclusion to the competition in Athlone on Sunday. The three-day event saw tabletoppers Connacht face off against with second-place Leinster in the competition’s final game, with the westerners only needing a point to claim the title.

John McShane’s side were feeling the pressure, having to win the game to make sure of the silverware, but they raced out of the blocks and were ahead after just 11 minutes. Matthews was the creator when he found a pass to Luke Fitzgibbon, who slotted home from close range for the perfect possible start. Connacht bounced back shortly after the interval as they found their equaliser. An excellent goal from Kiltimagh’s Conor Byrne brought Leinster one step closer to silverware.

But, with only 15 minutes remaining, Leinster sealed the deal, with Moffat scoring the winner, after Sean Maguire’s crafty skills landed the Blackrock man with the perfect opportunity to fire past the stranded Connacht keeper. Manager John McShane paid tribute to the efforts of his player’s in grinding out a match-winning performance against a talented Connacht side to claim their fifth consecutive title. McShane was highly impressed with the standard of play in all three games, and stated that it

was the closest tournament in recent years. Following the tournament, Irish head coach Ollie Horgan and his colleagues will have a difficult task to whittle down a provisional squad to attend trials at the end of the month. Horgan is also conscious of the fact that a number of key players were unavailable at the weekend due to injury, club commitments and trials abroad. Over 35 players will be called in for trials over the school mid-term break at the end of the month.

CYCLING: LOCAL RIDERS CLAIM HONOURS IN MANCHESTER

MOUNT Merrion’s Caroline Healy along with St Joseph’s girls Nicole Cranny, Chloe Mustaki and Jenny Ferrari were all involved in the Republic of Ireland U-17 women’s squad who secured a place in the UEFA Elite championships this week. They picked up a 1-1 draw with Italy to close out their group on seven points, eliminating the Italians who needed to win, and now all roads lead to the elite stage in 2012. Manager, Harry Kenny was clearly overjoyed with the players and their efforts. “It’s a fantastic achievement to get out of such a difficult group. Everyone in the squad played their part in achieving this. I’m looking forward seeing who we get in the draw in Nyon in November.”

Summerfest set for next weekend THE 2011 Tesco mobile SARI Summerfest, the largest intercultural soccer tournament in Ireland, is set to take part this year at the Garda and Camogie Sports Grounds, in Phoenix Park on September 10 and 11 from 11am to 5pm each day. The Summerfest will also coinciude with the CONCERN kitefest, where kite flyers from around the world will display their kites and give kite workshops for children. The two-day festival also includes a wide array of entertainment for all the family.

For more information, see www. facebook.com/sarireland.

Castleknock Celtic seeking ladies talent CASTLEKNOCK Celtic FC’s ladies and girls section are recruiting new talent to the cllub for the soccer season starting later this month. If you were born in 1996 or earlier, visit the club’s website at www.castleknockceltic.com, and pass on your name and contact details in the How To Join section provided on the site. The club are also looking to recruit girls born in 2001/2002 to play soccer in the DubliGirls Soccer League.

Orwell rider Orla Hendron was one of the Wheelers’ riders who took a medal at the World Masters event in Manchester last week

Wheelers roll to medals sport@gazettegroup.com

ORWELL W heelers’ riders Orla Hendron and Stephen McNally enjoyed a superb week at the World Masters track cycling championships when they both medalled in Manchester. Hendron sprinted home third in the 45+ Scratch Race last Thursday to add another bronze to her tally, after she had claimed silver in the points race on the first day of the meet earlier in the week. It was a hard-fought bronze, following a typically energetic per formance in the

20-lap, five-kilometre race, during which she attacked repeatedly but still retained enough strength to hang on for a medal. Hendron’s second medal adds to the 45-49 pursuit silver won by her Orwell clubmate, Stephen McNally, and a bronze annexed by Terry Mackin (Banbridge) in the 35-39 kilometre. McNally’s World Masters ended prematurely with a nasty crash in the 45-49 Points Race qualifier on Wednesday when he hit the boards hard, breaking three ribs, partially puncturing a lung and damaging shoulder

ligaments. Earlier in the week, McNally was first of the Irish in action, and the European Masters Champion produced a great ride in the qualification for his specialist event, the 45-49 3km P ursuit with second fastest time, just 18 hundredths of a second slower than Daniel Casper from Minnesota. McNally set off like a steam train in the evening final, establishing a gap of over two seconds in the opening kilometre, before throttling back in the middle of the race as Casper

raced into a two-second lead. Reacting to Casper’s surge, McNally powered through the final kilometre but fell short by just under half a second in a thrilling climax. Earlier in the evening session, Terry Mackin (Banbridge CC) stopped the clocks at 1m06.956s in the 35-39 Kilometre Time Trial to claim the medal. Mackin’s time in his first international track competition was eight-tenths of a second off the time set by gold medallist, Ben Elliott of Great Britain. Hendron had to wait until almost 11pm to

defend her world points crown in the 45-49 age group, which she won in Portugal last year. Hendron put up a very spirited performance starting with an attack from the gun and several other forays off the front, while also annexing points at every sprint. It all translated into a fine second-place finish behind Janet Birkmyre of Great Britain, and another trip to the podium at a world championships for the Orwell Wheelers rider in just her second world level season since taking up the sport.


20 October 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 31

in association with

FOOTBALL: SAINTS DEMOLISHED BY BALLYBODEN

a

CLUB NOTICEBOARD BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S Congratulations to the senior cam-

come along next Friday at 9pm to

ogie team on reaching the Leinster

the lounge. It’s great fun and a good

final, and to the senior football

social night out; newcomers espe-

team on reaching the last eight of

cially welcome.

the championship. The club made a

Free Art Classes for club mem-

piece of football history by reach-

bers: Register your interest now

ing the Junior B and C championship

on 087

finals. Congratulations to John and Irene Kirwan on New York camogie success. Anyone in ter e s ted in pla ying cards on Frida y nigh t s should

243 5948 with Neil. Classes starting soon (club members and friends only). Lotto: Numbers drawn were 5, 7, 24 and 4. Jackpot of €4,500 was not won.

NAOMH OLAF

St Peregrine’s were no match for well-drilled Ballyboden St Enda’s at Parnell Park last week

Peregrine’s grounded by impressive Enda’s DUBLIN SFC ROUND 4 Ballyboden St Enda’s St Peregrine’s

2-19 0-4

sport@gazettegroup.com

READING too much into omens can be a risky business, but Ballyboden St Enda’s county success in the 2009 championship was kick-started by stunning thumping of St Peregrine’s in Parnell Park in the fourth round of the competition. They repeated the trick last Sunday, running up a huge 2-11 to no score lead by the break to announce themselves as serious contenders in 2011. First-half goals from Andrew Kerin and Declan O’Mahony set them on their way before emptying their bench in the second half, in which Peregrine’s eventually got on the board three quarters of the way in, to ironic applause from the main stand. They just could not match O’Mahony and Michael Darragh Macau-

ley in midfield, while Andy Kerin and the creative spark of Daniel Davey made it tough to get any momentum. For the Blakestown club, space and time were at a premium, with Robbie McCarthy’s usually accurate left boot hassled into three first-half wides from the few chances that came their way. The first goal came as early as the seventh minute from the penalty spot, and there was no turning back thereafter, Kerin slotting past Kieran Walsh’s best effort. Points were shared out before O’Mahony marauded forward to take in Bob Dwane’s long pass, and he found the net. Ciaran Murtagh finally broke his side’s duck, while Ciaran McGuinness also nabbed a pair, but they were scant consolation as their run came to a low-key end after picking up the big scalp of Lucan Sarsfields back

in the spring. Boden must now face St Brigid’s in the quarter finals after they won the tie of the round with an 0-8 to 0-7 win over reigning champions Kilmacud Crokes in a repeat of the 2010 final. Tight throughout, Crokes led 0-4 to 0-2 at the break but Brigid’s pushed on in the second half and took the vital scores through Paddy Andrews, Ken Darcy and Mark Cahill. Dublin senior Sean Murray played a blinder in defence to nullify one

of the most potent attacking forces in the county, with Brian Kavanagh limited to just a free. Mark Vaughan did weigh in with five points but a key moment came when Shane Supple managed to block his goal-bound effort with a top reaction save while Barry O’Rorke was also denied by the former Ipswich Town man to keep Brigid’s in the game. John O’Loughlin got a key point just before the break and they bossed the second half to exact a sweet revenge.

HARD luck to our senior hurlers who

Impor tant f ix tures this week

were defeated by BBSE, 3-12 to 0-12,

include the minor hurlers in home

in the quarter-final of the senior

action in the MHC D on Sunday, Octo-

hurling championship B last Sun-

ber 16 against Alfie Byrne Gaels, with

day.

an 11am throw-in.

Our minor footballers unfortu-

Our U-14 girl footballers also play

nately were also defeated on Sunday

at home on Sunday, where they are

morning by St Anne’s in the MFC.

up against Fox Cab in the Div 1 shield

Elsewhere, our U-15 football-

semi-final with a 12pm throw-in. All

ers reached the semi-final of the B

support is welcome and appreci-

championship by comprehensively

ated.

defeating St Anne’s, 4-12 to 0-01, in

Congratulations to Shane

their refixed quarter-final match.

O’Connor, Clonard, and El ai ne

Our U-13 footballers beat Lucan

McGrath, Raheny, on their marriage,

Sarsfields in League Div 2, while our

and to Eoin Leavy, Wedgewood, and

U-12 girl footballers reached the

Claire Rodgers, Beaumont, also on

final of the Div 3 shield following a

their marriage. Congratulations are

hard-fought victory away to Bal-

also due to Eric and Aedín Horgan on

lyfermot De La Salle.

the birth of a daughter, Elin.

STARS OF ERIN THE U-8 footballers played a great

in the league. Joe Mulhall scored

game against Geraldine Moran’s in

three goals with Conor Kinsella and

Glencullen on Saturday morning. It

Sean Doyle running the game from

was a well-contested game, good

midfield. The Stars of Erin nursery

skills from both sets of players, with

continues to grow and is on in St

Geraldine’s winning out in the end.

Patrick’s National School in Glen-

Special mention for Ciara Doyle and

cullen from 11.30am every Saturday

Liam Tomkinson who were outstand-

morning. All parents and children

ing.

are very welcome. Please contact

The U-9 footballers put in another great display in a tough match

Peter Keane 087 223 4783 for further information.

against Liffey Gaels. A very tough

The adult footballers played a chal-

first half finished even, but with

lenge game in Glencullen on Saturday

some great play, the Stars came out

against Emo from Co Laois in honour

well on top in the second half. Some

of the late Patsy Mulhall. After a slow

great play from Morgan Collins, Alex

start by the Stars lads, Emo built up

McEvoy and Ellis Keane enabled us to

a good lead before the break. Stars

win well. Well done all and keep up the

upped the work rate and turned the

good work.

game around pulling Emo back. A late

The U-11 footballers also had a fan-

rally by Emo got them over the line to

tastic win over Liffey Gaels away

see out the game. Congratulations to

from home. Beating Liffey Gaels

Emo and we look forward to seeing

pushes the U-11s into second place

them again next year.

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ALL OF YOUR DUNDRUM SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

WHEEL-Y GOOD: Medals haul at World Masters for Orwell cycling stars P30

OCTOBER 20, 2011

FORZA, BERNARD! Dunne on life after being the champ P29

O’Dwyer brushes off pressure on ’Boden

GazetteSPORT

Ballyboden St Enda’s were ruthless in their demolition of St Peregrine’s in their Round 4 encounter last week

Manager sees no expectation on his side as they face St Brigid’s in quarter-final of Dublin SFC STEPHEN FINDLATER dundrumsport@gazettegroup.com

BALLYBODEN St Enda’s boss Liam O’Dwyer believes his side has a shot when they face St Brigid’s in the quarter-final of the Dublin senior football championship this Saturday. Boden unceremoniously accounted for St Peregrine’s last Sunday, just a couple of days after beating Fingal Ravens in a replay in the third round. And while O’Dwyer’s side won the title in 2009, serious injuries to star men like Conal Keaney and Darragh Nelson have left him believing his side are in bonus territory. “We’re very much the underdogs against Brigid’s, and it’s nice to go into the game that way,” he told GazetteSport. “I watched Brigid’s at the weekend. They played really well. John O’Loughlin has been a huge addition to them and given them a new dimension in the middle of the field.

“He’s a physically large player, strong and athletic. We’re going to have to look after him and Barry Cahill; Sean Murray did very well on Brian Kavanagh, I was very impressed with him. “Then you have Paddy Andrews and Ken Darcy up front, so they have an all-round team, which is what I liked about them against Crokes.” Injuries have played a massive part in the makeup of O’Dwyer’s panel, while St Mary’s protests earlier in the campaign left Boden waiting a long time to finally play their second-round tie. It has left the side playing catch-up in the competition and the subsequent replay against Ravens delayed matters further. It has left the campaign showing some of the hallmarks of the 2009 campaign – especially with Peregrine’s being fourth-round victims once more – but reading too much into such omens is not on O’Dwyer’s mind. “I’d like to think that but I’d say it probably isn’t an omen. That was a totally different side; we’ve

got seven lads new to this year’s team and it’s a big learning curve for some of the younger players. They have stepped up to the mark in the last number of games. “Sometimes the proximity of matches works in your favour. When we drew three times with Crokes back in 2009 and then played Jude’s four days later in the county final, people were saying was that good for you. In hindsight, I suppose, there’s nothing like momentum. “After all the problems that we had, we could have easily sat back and felt sorry ourselves. We played Davis’s, Fingal Ravens and St Mary’s, all very strong teams. Once we came through them, there’s nothing really expected of us. “There is a great feeling around the club, and we are really looking forward to it. We’re going to give it one hell of a go this weekend and, hopefully, we can come out on the right side. We’re fully confident we have it in us to win, and that’s the way we’ll be looking at it.”


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