Dundrum

Dundrum GAZET TE FREE

‘Family fun and a luxury break at Sheen Falls Lodge’ TRAVEL: P20-21.

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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Lively music to help celebrate a fun Africa Day P10

June 16, 2011

‘CRISIS’: Victor Boyhan warning

as 4,175 people on housing list Page 5

Ready to tuck in: Celebrating a school birthday WITH a delicious cake to tuck

Stars of Erin: Club awarded for contribution to community Page 32

into, there was no shortage of volunteers ready to help slice up a piece of history at Good Shepherd National School, which recently celerated its 21st birthday. Principal, Sheila Fitzgerald, was joined by teachers and members of the student council for the birthday bash, with everyone delighted to help mark the school’s important anniversary.

Picture: Peter Doyle

Full Gallery on Page 8

Soccer: Broadford Rovers reflect on 10/11 season Page 30

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ..................... 2 MOTORS ........................18 TRAVEL......................... 20 BUSINESS ................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

New Cathaoirleach ‘a voice for people’ Fine Gael’s John Q HIROMI MOONEY

Bailey ‘hopes to make a difference’

FINE Gael councillor John Bailey has been elected as Cathaoirleach of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, vowing to be a “voice for the people”.

Councillor Bailey will replace Labour councillor Lettie McCarthy, who stepped

down earlier this week after her year in office.

On his new role, Cllr Bailey said: “It’s a great honour, to be First Citizen of your county, and also being a local from the area is significant, I think.

“I hope to make a difference for the people who are disadvantaged, to people who

are in need of homes, and to bring new things to fruition, and be a voice for the people.”

The new Cathaoirleach’s agenda during his term in office will include the upgrading of playgrounds and recreational facilities for children.

Full Story on Page 4

2 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 16 June 2011

EDUCATION A well-earned ceremony for college students

Derek Nolan, centre, was presented with a CFE Graduate Achievement Award by Bridget Blake, principal, College of Further Education Dundrum, and Michel Foley, deputy principal. Pictures: Peter Doyle

Praising graduates’ work HERE was understandable delight and pride on show at the recent graduation ceremony for students at College of Further Education (CEF) Dundrum, which saw students from a number of courses step forward to complete their studies, with many friends and family members in attendance.

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CEF Dundrum principal, Bridget Blake, congratulated the students on their notable academic success, and determination, commenting on the personal sacrifices and dedication demonstrated by all graduates. Despite the current challenge facing graduates everywhere, the CEF Dundrum students are off to a praiseworthy start.

Andrina Wafer, head of access and communications at FETAC Tutors Susan Keyes and Regina Lynch

There were many in attendance at the event

with Bridget Blake, principal

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01 6010269 or 085 8018737 Olivia, Clodagh and Isabelle Mullholland

Malik and Hassiba Bouslah and Kate Waldron

16 June 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 3

POLITICS 24-year-old Alan Gallagher is tipped to replace Cait Keane

FG to select councillor for Rathfarnham Ward

Q DAWN LOVE

FINE Gael grassroots in South Dublin are set to meet in early July to select a new councillor for the Rathfarnham Ward.

The convention follows the election of longtime Councillor Cait Keane to the Seanad.

Members of Fine Gael’s Knocklyon and Rathfarnham branches

will attend the convention with 24-year-old Alan Gallagher tipped to replace Keane.

From Knocklyon, Gallagher confirmed this week that he had put his name forward saying: “It is a great honour to have been nominated to contest this convention.

“We face many challenges as a country and will continue do so over the coming years; South

Dublin County Council isn’t immune from these challenges. Financially the council, like so many other local authorities, is struggling. Now, more than ever, our councillors need to take a positive and proactive approach.”

Gallagher previously worked for presidential hopeful Gay Mitchell MEP, serving as his campaign manager dur-

ing the 2009 European Elections, and becoming the youngest campaign manager for an MEP ever, having only been 21 years when appointed.

Gallagher has been a member of Fine Gael since he was 16 and is also a member of Young Fine Gael, having served as National Secretary, the third highest ranking position of an organisation of over 4,000 mem-

bers nationwide.

Having spent all his life living in Knocklyon, he attended school in St Colmcille’s NS, Knocklyon and Colaiste Éanna CBS in Ballyroan, the same school as formerTD George Lee. If successful, Gallagher will become South Dublin County Council’s youngest councillor at the age of 24.

“I look forward to the opportunity ahead, I

Reunion: Soccer legends to play Cabinteely FC CABINTEELY FC, the home of excellent coaching

and fun for your soccer-mad sons, daughters or special Olympians are bringing the Irish soccer legends from World Cup Italia ’90 and USA ’94 back together to play a Cabinteely FC selection.

The legends will include, John Aldridge (pictured), Jason McAteer, Phil Babb, Ronnie Whelan and for the first time since he too was schoolboy, Paul McGrath, will once again line up on his home patch from his schoolboy football days in the borough of Dun Laoghaire. Tickets are available from Cabinteely FC, details on http://www. cabinteelyfc.com/

want the best for the people of the Rathfarnham Ward. I know I have the experience that will help me deliver and make a

real difference for the communities of Knocklyon, Rathfarnham, Ballyroan, Edmondstown and Whitechurch.”

4 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 16 June 2011

COUNCIL

Wheely fun week DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is getting ready for National Bike Week by hosting a number of free events.

Organised in conjunction with DLR Sports Partnership, and Orwell Wheelers Bike Club, the events take place between June 18 and 26, with the week’s programme including a cycling exhibition, talks and bike maintenance classes.

The third annual event opens with the Active 8 Family Cycling Event in Shanganagh Park, Shankill on Sunday, June 19, between 1pm and 5pm, and includes cycle skills training, unicycles and bike trails.

Then, a 5km family cycle will be held in Dun Laoghaire on Saturday, June 25, leaving from the People’s Park at 2pm continuing along The Metals route to Dalkey.

A detailed list of events can be found on www. dlrcoco.ie and www.dlrsportspartnership.ie.

POLITICS FG Cllr John Bailey prepares for new role

Cathaoirleach: ‘I will be a voice for the people’ Q HIROMI MOONEY dundrum@gazettegroup.com

LONGTIME Fine Gael politician John Bailey has been elected as Cathaoirleach of Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council (DLRCC), vowing to be a “voice for the people”.

Councillor Bailey will succeed Labour councillor Lettie McCarthy, who earlier this week at a council meeting stepped down from the role after her year in office.

“It’s a great honour to be first citizen of your county, and also being a local from the area is significant, I think,” said Cllr Bailey, of his new role.

“I hope to make a difference for the people who are disadvantaged, to people who are in need of homes, and to bring new things to provision, and to be a voice for the people.”

Politics runs in the family as his daughter, Maria, is Fine Gael councillor for Ballybrack and Shankill.

Cllr Bailey lives in Killiney with his wife, Angela, and the couple have five daughters, including Maria.

A GAA enthusiast, Cllr Bailey prides himself on being an “on the ground” politician, committed to representing his constituency and working closely

with the public, as he says in his slogan: Putting People First.

“I do six-and-a-half days every week. I’m available from seven in the morning until the night, so people can contact me at any time. I’m always available, and I’m always accessible,” he said.

“I was former chairman of Dublin County Board [of the GAA]; I built Parnell Park – the home of Dublin,” said Cllr Bailey.

As a county councillor, he has worked closely with the public, community groups and residents’ associations.

As the new Cathaoirleach of DLRCC, Cllr Bailey said he has many plans for the area, including building a major new library for Dun Laoghaire, building new swimming pools in Loughlinstown

Councillor John Bailey, succeeding Cllr Lettie McCarthy as Cathaoirleach of DLRCC

and in Ballyogan in Sandyford, as well as carrying out major improvements on footpaths and roads.

He also hopes to upgrade playgrounds and recreational facilities for children, particularly for people with disadvan-

tages.

Cllr Bailey said that there are 4,700 people on the council’s housing list at the moment.

“We need to make a major initiative and try and move that on, and try and get people accommodated,” he said.

“The big problem at the moment is that NAMA and the banks are holding us up. So, we need to negotiate and instigate talks with the Minister for the Environment to see how we can move this on. That would be one of my priorities.”

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16 June 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 5

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HOUSING 4,175 are waiting for social housing

DLR lists at crisis point, says Boyhan Q DAWN LOVE dundrum@gazettegroup.com

THE need for social housing in Dun LaoghaireRathdown is now at crisis point, with 4,175 people on the housing list.

That’s according to Independent councillor Victor Boyhan, who was speaking after the latest housing figures were released by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC).

The council released the figure as part of its annual review of all social housing applicants.

Councillors debated a comprehensive housing review undertaken by the housing executive at this week’s council meeting.

Reacting to the numbers of people now waiting for housing, Cllr Boyhan told the Gazette that

Independent councillor Victor Boyhan

he was disappointed and frustrated with the lack of resources to address the crisis in social housing.

“Like my fellow councillors, I have no doubt that our housing executive is frustrated by the situation too.

“I am shocked by the latest figures. It’s so disheartening to have to respond to families wait-

ing years for suitable accommodation, and to have to go back and tell them that they will have to wait years to be housed by the council,” he said.

Cllr Boyhan requested the housing executive to write to all 4,175 social housing applicants to tell them of its revised social housing list, and their

allocation number on the new waiting list.

“Social housing output over the last few years has been very disappointing.

“We have to face up to the fact that we have a housing crisis in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown,” he said.

“The figures speak for themselves, with 4,175 applicants on the social housing list, while 2,188 applicants are on the affordable housing list, too.

“A new housing construction programme is what is needed for social housing. Let’s not get hung up on who builds [such housing], be it the council or the private sector – the fact is that social housing is needed, and, in addition, construction activity will boost jobs and the economy,” said Cllr Boyhan.

Some Hot summer sounds: Bringing superb jazzy music to Airfield fans AIRFIELD will soon be filled to the rafters with the dynamic sound

of The Hot Club of Dublin, who are bringing their jazzy, summer sounds to the south Dublin centre on Thursday, June 23.

With a number of their own compositions, as well as music from the likes of The Mills Brothers, Sinatra and Django Reinhardt, the band’s superb vocal harmony, instrumental dexterity and virtuoso skills are sure to wow local music lovers. Be sure to catch their 8pm show, with tickets costing €16/€14.

6 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 16 June 2011

AWARDS: PRAISING VOLUNTEERS

COUNCIL: NO WATER CUTS YET, BUT WARNINGS OF POTENTIAL RESTRICTIONS

Lettie’s tribute to selfless people

Public asked to save water

IN ONE of her last public engagements as An Cathoirleach of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, Labour councillor Lettie McCarthy paid tribute to local volunteers at a special awards ceremony.

Speaking at the annual Cathaoirleach’s Awards Ceremony, Cllr McCarthy described those who received recognition for their volunteer work as having given “outstanding service to the community”.

She said the awards were particularly appropriate, “given that 2011 is the designated European Year of Volunteering”.

Prestigious awards Three awards were presented in the Council Chamber of County Hall in Dun Laoghaire – to the Dublin and Wicklow Mountain Rescue Team, Dun Laoghaire Sailing Volunteer Group, and Stars of Erin GAA Club Glencullen.

Cllr McCarthy highlighted the impact of these groups on the life of local communities, saying: “Directly and indirectly, these groups provide social and economic development at a local, national and international level.”

Addressing the volunteers in the Chamber, she referred to a recent speech delivered by President Mary MacAleese, in which she said that volunteering “serves to remind us that, on our island, there is a veritable army of volunteers who embody that essential part of our culture and heritage, where we look out for and look after one another.”

Q NATALIE BURKE

dundrum@gazettegroup.com

A whirl of creativity: Ready to click superb photographs into place at students’ show SURROUNDED by whirling classmates, Kyera

Grant could only smile as Deirdre O’Keeffe, Eva Valda, Maiken Woll Elde and Zane Bernharde helped to prepare some of their shots for the recent photography exhibition at Griffith College, which saw the students exhibiting their portfolios of work.

A third-year student of the BA in Photography at the college, Kyera also displayed her

work at the exhibition, which was held at the South Circular Road campus throughout the June bank holiday weekend.

The superb exhibition was the culmination of Griffith College’s Creative Fortnight; an annual showcase of student work from throughout the year, which opened with a film screening from award-winning director, Paddy Breathnach.

JUST months after residents in Dundrum suffered from severe water outages and reduced water pressure, members of the public and local businesses are once again being urged to conserve water and minimise their water usage.

While Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council (DLRCC) said there is no immediate need to impose restrictions on water supply, restrictions may be unavoidable should the dry spell continue, and should demand for water increase during the summer period.

The lower-than-average rainfall in recent months has led to a reduction in the volume of raw water available for treatment from the reservoirs at Poulaphouca, Roundwood and Bohernabreena, and DLRCC’s latest appeal is being supported

by Labour TD for South Dublin, Alex White.

“I support the council’s call to take extra care and try and reduce water usage. We all remember back around Christmas when a lot of people suffered water shortages, but it was well organised, and the council dealt with it well,” said Deputy White.

“The public informa-

tion they gave was good, and people did respond.

I think people should respond again to these appeals and, if everybody did their part, it would make a big difference.

“If each member of the public did one thing every day to reduce the amount of water they use – whether it was even to take a shorter shower in the morning – it could make a difference. We are all responsible for wasting water,” he said.

When asked if the water shortage problems could be related to the current piping system that DLR water currently runs through, Deputy White said: “There is a possibility there could be certain infrastructural problems that we will have to address eventually, and there will be discussions in relation to water charges.

“It does remind us that water is a scarce resource, and it needs to be treated, managed and piped, and this all requires a lot of money,” he said.

Advise for the public on how to help conserve water in the household and at work includes tips such as using a basin to wash fruit and vegetables, and only running the dishwasher when it is full. For more water-conserving tips, see www.taptips.ie.

16 June 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 7

PEOPLE Maternity clothing hire now available

Stepping out in style for new mums A UNIQUE and stylish maternity dress hire service, a first in Ireland, is now available in Rathfarnham.

Established six weeks ago by Gillian Ryan, business is going from strength to strength. “Within days of opening, I had numerous calls from interested women. Business is brilliant,” says the thrilled local business woman.

Gillian is associated with various renowned designers, such as Isabella Oliver, Nicole Michelle, Butter by Nadia and Picchu. “Such designers cater for sizes ten up to sixteen, so all shapes and sizes are easily accessible to the pregnant woman.

“The most popular choice is the Nicole Michelle range as it caters for all bust sizes and pro-

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vides a fitting silhouette,” Gillian says.

The main inspiration for setting up the unique business was not only Gillian’s love of fashion but also her own experiences of being pregnant.

“I was pregnant and had four family weddings in one, year and this caused a lot of frustration for me in terms of what to wear.”

Gillian works from home so a personal appointment is a must.

Women can also avail of Gillian’s personal mobile service too.

“Whether you’re a busy mum that doesn’t have time to go shopping, or whether you just prefer to try the clothes on in the comfort of your home, my mobile service brings the clothes straight to your door.

“Our aim is to make

dressing you and your bump stress free and as easy as possible,” says Gillian.

Dresses can be kept for a maximum of four days, and costs vary between €60 and €90, depending on dress choice. “Dresses are usually available two days prior to the special occasion,” she says.

Celebrities such as Myleene Klass, Holly Willoughby and Tess Daly have all been known to wear maternity dresses from the various labels that Gillian stocks.

Most notably, ex-Spice Girl Emma Bunton was recently spotted wearing maternity dresses from one of the ranges that Gillian stocks.

“To see Emma Bunton wearing dresses from my showroom has definitely been the icing on the cake,” she chuckles.

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Q NAOMI YOUNG

Smart thinking: A new petrol engine option for the Skoda Octavia

A maternity dress hire service, a first in Ireland Ireland, is now av available in Rathfarnham

MOTORING PAGE 18

8 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 16 June 2011

SCHOOLS Celebrations are held to mark milestone day

Ella and Olivia

Gina Murray, Elaine Garland, Pauline Palmer and Carmel Tracey

Principal Sheila Fitzgerald with teachers and the Student Council. Pictures: Peter Doyle

21 years of Good Shepherd NS OOD Shepherd National School recently celebrated its 21st anniversary.

A fun day was had by both present and past pupils alike, with performances from the Good Shepherd choir and Garda Band, face-painting along with tours and demonstrations of the school’s facilities.

A fully equipped concert hall,

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computer rooms, kitchens and the computerised library were all open for viewing.A Tiny Tots’ Playschool and Angels’ Care Montessori were also open on the day.

Good Shepherd National School was established in 1989 following the amalgamation of Our Lady of Loreto Girls’ School, Loreto Avenue, and De La Salle Boys’ School.

Samantha

Lee

Denise English, Irene Dunne, Ann Stafford and Helen Gallagher

Chloe, Keighley and Kacey

Garda Charles Kavanagh

16 June 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 9

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EVENT St Attracta’s students celebrating Africa Day

Memba Jabbi, from The Africa Centre, and Mrs Wilhemina Asamda, Minister Counsellor, Education Ghana High Commission, London, representing the Ghana High Commissioner

Enjoying a taste of Africa

Students enjoy some African music. Picture: Peter Doyle

HE Africa Centre in Dundrum hosted an Africa Day event for pupils and parents in St Attracta’s Senior School, Meadowbrook, recently. With African music and cuisine on offer the visitors got an intimate look at the lifestyles of another culture.

Africa Day is an initiative of the African Union, which aims to celebrate African diversity and success as well as the cultural and economic potential of the continent.

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Adedotun Adekeye, Nigerian storyBusola Shogbamimu

Scott, Rhianna and Megan

Kwame Adomako

Monica, Caitriona and Cian

Jake, Hannan and Ciara

teller

Pamela Onyango and Keziah Mabunde, from Kenya

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 11

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Exploring Dublin’s architecture A RECENTLY launched Architecture Tours Ireland initiative is offering tours of historic and contemporary Dublin architecture.

The tours, which will run every week across the year and take approximate one to one- andhalf hours to complete, will be guided by a group of passionate architects.

Tour capacity will be limited to just 25 participants and the cost per tour is €10 per adult, €5 per child and €8 concession for students, unwaged and seniors. Bookings can be made on www. architecturetours.ie.

Tours currently on offer through Architecture Tours Ireland (ATI) are: Dublin Docklands, The Living City, Georgian Dublin, Temple Bar and Children’s Activity Tours.

Visit www.architecturetours.ie for more information and bookings.

FITNESS Start planning now how to look your best

Shaping up your body for sunny summer QDERRY TEMPLE

SUMMER is here, so it’s time to dig out last year’s swimsuit in preparation for the good weather and your next holiday destination.

But does last year’s swimsuit still fit or has a winter of hibernation taken its toll on your waistline? If you want to get your body in shape for the sunny

summer months, then maybe it’s time to start planning how you are going to look your best.

One way to kick-start a new regime, is to list all the reasons you want to shape up. Writing down your goals and the reasons you want to reach them will help motivate and inspire you. Along with reviewing your reasons for training, you need to set yourself

some realistic goals.

Mark down your weight, and, as your programme develops, you will have a visible record of your progress. Record any training done, and try to consistently improve your results.

The first law of thermodynamics dictates that weight loss occurs whenever energy output exceeds energy intake, you need to increase your daily activity and combine this with good eating habits.

It was reported in the International Journal of Obesity that analysis of the past 25 years of weight loss research found that the average weight loss of a weightreduction programme was hugely increased when a proper diet was followed along with exercise. A food diary can help make you more aware of your nutritional blunders.

Write down absolutely everything you eat and drink and review it to look for common dietary mistakes.

The most common errors include not eating a breakfast, going too long without eating, eating too many processed carbohydrates

Derry Temple-a qualified pilates instructor, strengh and conditioning coach

and not enough vegetables and protein.

One of the best ways to train, is a combination of cardio and resistance training. This helps you to not only lose fat, but also gain muscle, ensuring a toned look, a stronger body and a higher metabolism.

Most important is to do something you really enjoy; working out shouldn’t have to be boring. For those who despise the gym and want to train outdoors in a fun environment, bootcamp may be a suit-

able option. Bootcamps have enjoyed a surge in popularity recently, because they involve a mix of both endurance and resistance training in an enjoyable atmosphere.

It is important to have a circle of support, so you should encourage a friend, family member or spouse to be an exercise partner and join you in your weight loss effort. This person should only be used as a support, however, and not as a crutch to lean on. This is your journey

to the ideal beach body and nobody else can get you there.

Derr y Temple is a qualified pilates instructor, strength and conditioning coach. He runs his own fitness company, DTFitness, offering pilates and bootcamp classes, along with personal training. DTFitness is located in the Artane/Donnycarney area in Dublin 5. You Contact Derry by telephone on 085 7131417.

Email: derry@dtfitness. ie or visit the website: www.dtfitness.ie

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INITIATIVE

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 13

EVENT Weekend with crowds in their thousands

Bloom’s Rudd-y success breakfast pack if they clicked “Like” on the Rudd’s page.

This proved to be a huge success, with more than 600 new fans joining the Rudd’s page at Bloom.

More recently, at Taste of Dublin, Rudd’s ran the same promotion, and saw their Facebook page gain more than 1,100 fans.

Taste of Dublin was as popular as ever, with thousands of people turning out to sample some of the finest food and drink in Dublin and, of course, Rudd’s famous sausages.

To check out photos and news from the events, see www.facebook.com/ rudds.

Talbot Hotel to sponsor Discover Ireland Horse Show THE TALBOT Hotel Group has announced its three-year sponsorship of the 2011 Discover Ireland Horse Show.

The Talbot Group are the proud sponsors of the Speed Derby International Competition.

This prestigious event takes place on Ladies’ Day, August 4, in the RDS main arena and offers a prize of €21,000.

Taking place from August 3 to 7, Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show is one of the world’s largest international show-jumping events in the world and, this year, the show hopes to be even bigger and better than ever before. Not only is the show a top international equestrian event, it is also a wonderful day out with kids’ entertainment, live music every day, champagne bars, great food, trade stands and, not to forget, the style of Blossom Hill

Ladies’ day on August 4.

Over 100 years ago the Talbot Hotel Group originated in Wexford, the sunny south-east of Ireland. Today, along with Talbot Wexford, the Talbot Trinity comprises the Stillorgan Park Hotel and Talbot Carlow. Each of the 4-star Talbot Hotels offer luxurious accommodation, contemporary bars and restaurants, health and leisure facilities, exceptional wedding venues and excellent business facilities.

Located within 10 minutes from the RDS, the Stillorgan Park Hotel is offering packages from €65 per person sharing during the Horse Show, including ticket to the show and complimentary transfers to the RDS. For reservations, contact the hotel on 01 2001800, email reservations@stillorganpark.com or book online at www.stillorganpark.com

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DUBLIN’S Bloom festival, which ran from Thursday, June 2, to Monday, June 6, was a fantastic and successful event, organised by Bord Bia. Popular breakfast meat producers, Rudd’s, participated in the Field to Fork tent in the Bord Bia Food Village.

The glorious sunshine held up for most of the weekend, which helped to bring out the crowds in their thousands.

For the duration of the bank holiday weekend, Rudd’s ran a promotion in conjunction with their newly-launched Facebook page, where customers received a complimentary Rudd’s

Kate Bush: A return to her 90s’ releases

Model Alison Canavan with Jessica Austin, Lauren Connolly and David Austin

SEE MUSIC PAGE 23

14 GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

Locks will get totally luscious with Aussie W E can all carry around a bit too much baggage at times, whether it’s in our handbags or our emotions. Now ladies, that’s quite enough to be lugging around without the thought of a heavyweight conditioner adding to the burden of follicle flatness. Aussie girls know that they should never let things get heavy, not even their hair!

And now you can have all the goodness of your favourite Aussie post-shampoo moisture boost with an extra pickme-up! The lightweight formula will ensure your hair doesn’t fall flat, leaving you with lusciously light locks that are rich and bouncy. This is thanks to a combination of lightweight conditioning ingredients specifically designed not to weigh hair down.

• Lusciously Light 3 Minute Miracle Reconstructor: Aussie’s hero intensive conditioner

has the sweet smell of Safflower Seed Oil. It soothes and smoothes and in record time too, because we know you’ve got better things to do ...

• Lusciously Light Mega Instant Conditioner: A great one for your gym bag, overnight bag, or just in your shower for everyday conditioning action! This Aussie gem’s a tried-and-tested musthave.

• Lusciously Light Colour Mate Conditioner: Give coloured hair the daily VIP treatment it deserves. It tenderly conditions and helps protect coloured hair, leaving highlights looking hot and all over colour positively smouldering.

• Lusciously Light Luscious Long Conditioner: Keep long hair in check with this daily conditioning treat – with eucalyptus extract in the list of ingredients it’s a stimulating experience too.

• Lusciously Light Miracle Moist Conditioner: After cleansing your hair with Miracle Moist Shampoo, hit your hair with some miraculously light moisturisation.

• Lusciously Light Frizz Miracle Conditioner: You won’t be able to resist swishing your newly silky locks the first

time you use this wonder conditioner.

• Lusciously Light 3 Minute Miracle Frizz Remedy: A daily frizzfighting product to work wonders at putting you in control. Sometimes your hair needs that extra light boost - and this is it!

•Lusciously Light Aussome Volume Conditioner: This conditioner, whisked up with extracts of Australian hops, laughs in the face of lifeless locks and turns up the volume and body.

Seriously, what a charmer!

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Aussie conditioners have a combination of lightweight conditioning ingredients specifically designed not to weigh hair down

Get longer, curvier-looking lashes in the blink of an eye GIVE your lashes the appearance of up to four times more volume, with new Big & Curvy Waterproof Mascara from The Body Shop.

This mascara is waterproof, tearproof and smudge-proof. Not only is it perfect for water babes, you can wear it for any momentous and happy occasion and feel confident that you won’t be captured on-camera with mascara streaks!

Create bigger, curvier-looking lashes and boost your confidence, with Big & Curvy Waterproof Mascara from The Body Shop RRP: €16.50.

Waterproof Mascara you can look and feel fabulous, drawing attention to your eyes effortlessly in the ‘‘blink of an eye’’.

And it’s ophthalmologist tested!

Volume

The secret to lashings of volume and full-bodied waterproof curl lies in the mascara’s innovative sculpting brush and waterproof formulation.

The advanced brush loads and sculpts lashes, coating them from root to tip, for full-bodied volumising curves that last.

Developed by mascara experts, this mascara with its fibre-twist brush gives the optimum boost of volume.

Go for a swim, work out at the gym, dance in the rain, or let your emotions overflow at a wedding or other happy occasion, confident that your look won’t be spoilt! Instead with new Big & Curvy

The Body Shop’s Big & Curvy Waterproof Mascara

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: ADVICE TO HELP PREPARE FOR A FUN SUMMER WITH CHILDREN AND PETS

Mothers have it tough – with kids and pets!

S A humane educator specialising in adult education, part of my programme specifically targets parents, and, in particular, mums who are trying to juggle a career, raise children and make time for the family pet.

Now, I don’t care what the experts say, ladies – nothing prepares you for the highs and lows that are part of the job description of being a mother.

It’s a complex journey, and the answers don’t miraculously fall at your feet!

When contemplating motherhood, I’ll bet that, like me, your expectations were high. Yes? That’s because we’re fed by a culture that shows motherhood to be a time of “bliss, joy and tranquillity”. Oh, purleese!

Well, not to worry girls – you’re not alone in your disorganised state; I’m with you, and I’m going to offer you some sisterly advice that I hope will help you out when it comes to planning some fun, supervised, summer activities for the kids and the pets.

A

Before I start, I want to remind you that all children should be monitored whilst playing with pets – particularly a toddler, who will view a pet as a small, moving cuddly toy, and will not be able to understand that hitting them, or pulling on their tail, will cause pain and/ or injury.

We’ll start with toddlers.

Young children love hide-and-seek games.

Hold up a sheet or towel so that your dog is hidden, and ask your toddler to pull the sheet aside, revealing your pet.

If your dog is a gentle pet, allow your toddler to smear a tasty treat, such as soft cheese, onto their fingers, and allow your pet to lick it off. (Please try this with your own fingers first, in case your pet’s nibbling gets too rough.)

If you feed your child in a high chair, allow him to drop some pet-friendly fresh vegetables for your pet to enjoy.

Restrict this to carrot sticks, unsalted cooked pasta, broccoli or apple slices without the pips.

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‘I’m going to offer you some sisterly advice that I hope will help you when it comes to planning fun, supervised, summer activities for the kids and the pets’

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For older children, encourage your child to throw a ball or favourite pet toy for your dog to retrieve. Alternatively, your child can blow bubbles for your dog to catch.

Make sure to buy a bubble kit that’s pet-friendly; available at all good pet stores. Using ordinary, home-made bubbles may cause a stomach upset if ingested by your pet.

Run with your dog on a lead and have your child “race” your dog to a designated finish line.

Get a toy water gun, or use the garden hose, and have your child spray small amounts of water a few feet away from your dog; moving the stream of water away in a zig-zag motion along the ground – your dog will love to chase this.

Keep a close eye for

signs your dog is no longer having fun, and stop this activity if so.

Hide a few doggy treats (near to the ground so that your dog can find them), and have your child and dog try to find them together.

For young teens, your teen should be encouraged to play ball games with your dog.

Enrol yourself, your teen and your dog into dog-training classes, especially obedience and agility, where many teens will enjoy the competitiveness, and it will also boost self-esteem for both teen and dog.

Have your teen read plenty of books, or search the internet for fun, safe ways to play and interact with your dog.

Never leave or expect your teen to be in charge of your pet outside of the

For time-pressed mums, looking after children and pets, is no walk in the park – however, a walk in the park with Rover and your children in tow is just one way to help the entire family – including your loved pet - bond and have fun together

safety of your home, as situations such as interactions with strange dogs can easily occur.

Sometimes – and I stress, sometimes – teens can become angry or direct negative reactions toward their pet if that pet destroys their personal items; so watch out for signs of aggression from both teen and pet.

It’s no secret that teens can be very busy young people and you, as their parent, will be forced to

compete for their love and attention – so imagine how the family dog feels!

Encourage your teen to spend some of his/her pocket money on doggy treats, and to take on the responsibility of cleaning out the dog’s bed etc.

Observe your dog and obtain feedback from the way he licks, cuddles or growls, scratches or runs away in response to your child/teen’s interactions.

Oh yes, ladies, I’ve no

www.gazette group.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

doubt you’ll face many hours where you’ll wonder if you were cut out to be a mum at all, but, give yourself credit, grab a coffee, and write down all your good points, and forget about the negative ones, because, you know what?

You’re a great mum, and your kids are not so bad either!

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

16 GAZETTE 16 June 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day

They’re certainly feeling the out in Blackrock this week Actor Jack Walsh (Playing Leopold Bloom); Dail Ceann Comhairle, Sean Barrett TD; actress Norette Leahy (playing Mrs Breen) and TV Dragon, Bobby Kerr, were feeling the love this week as they attended an evening reception at the launch of a new website, www.iloveblackrock.ie. The site is aimed at promoting Blackrock, Co.Dublin. An initiative of the Blackrock Business Network, the website is part of a drive to highlight the town as a great place to do business as well as an exciting shopping and leisure destination. Details were also announced at the launch of a number of events that are being organised and hosted by the Blackrock Business Network, including Bloomsday celebrations, and an Animation Festival and Family Fun Day on Saturday and Sunday, August 27 and 28.

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

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

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

Put the pedal to the... static bike! With B&Q B&Q has teamed up with Youth Work Ireland, its official charity partner, and arranged a cycling fundraising event in their stores, appropriately called B&Q Bike It! Staff from B&Q Swords have accepted the challenge and will be biking it for Youth Work Ireland between the hours of 10am and 6pm in the B&Q Swords store at Airside Retail Park, Swords, Co. Dublin. Children from the Swords Youth Service will be here to participate in the cycle and also collect donations on behalf of Youth Work Ireland.

Noeleen O’Gorman, from B&Q Swords said: “We are looking forward to participating in our B&Q Bike It! event and raising funds for such an important cause.”

Meanwhile, B&Q Liffey Valley will have a Management versus Staff distance race on a static bike. Staff can also place €1 donations to guess the total distance covered by the winning team.

DIARY Never to late to start again LAST week, we told the story of Dubliner Adrian Nolan, from Churchtown, and how he turned his life around by turning his dream about working with radio into a reality.

After 28 years of working in an international road transport company, Adrian decided to get back to the books at the age of 50, and study Fetac Level 5 and 6 in Radio Broadcast in Dun Laoghaire College of Further Education (DCFE).

He has since progressed to study a BA in Communications in DCU, and has just completed his first year there.

He will return to DCFE this September to teach the Fetac Level 5 Radio Production Module as an evening course for 20

weeks.

The module will introduce students to radio and interview techniques, and will give students a chance to gain experience in recording and performing live.

The communications student encourages anyone who is tired of their current career to consider pursuing their dream job.

The college details are Dun Laoghaire College of Further Education, Cumberland Road, Dun Laoghaire. You can contact the college by calling 01-2809676 or by emailing info@dlcfe.ie

Getting kids in Stitches THE search is on for unknown teenagers to act in a comedy horror film, Stitches.

Open auditions will take place in the offices of Tailored Films, 33 Pearse St, Dublin 2, from 10am until 7pm this coming Sunday, June 19, and the following Tues-

day, June 21, 10am-6pm.

Casting director Nick McGinley says that no experience is required and those auditioning should be aged between 16 and 18.

The feature film is written and will be directed by Conor McMahon, the acclaimed Irish director of Dead Meat.

And finally...

ST ATTRACTA’S JNS in Meadowbrook is inviting people to come on down and join them on Saturday for their Father’s Day summer fair from 2-4pm.

Kick off Father’s Day by testing dad’s football skills in their penalty shoot-out, have your picture taken with Shamrock Rover’s Hooperman, or why not try your luck in their fantastic raffle, or just browse their many stalls, including books, cakes, bric-abrac, toys and games.

All funds raised from the event will go towards the school building fund.

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazetteGAMING GAMING Wii’s lookin’ at U as Zelda hits 25 years AT THE E 3 Expo in Los Angeles earlier this month, Nintendo introduced a new concept for video games and home entertainment: Wii U, a new console that includes a controller with a 6.2-inch screen.

The company claims that, by adding a second screen to the living room, the system creates a multitude of new video game experiences, while offering families a variety of options to customise their entertainment.

Previously, video games played on a home console

have been confined to the TV and offered identical viewpoints to each player in a multi player environment.

Nintendo says that the new controller removes traditional gaming boundaries, creating a more dynamic and fluid gaming and entertainment experience.

After the console is launched, gamers will see firsthand the type of gaming experiences made possible by Wii U and the new controller.

In single-player games the new controller can display information on its screen that

does not appear on the TV. Also, the information and viewpoint can change in the new controller based on the orientation of its gyroscope.

In multiplayer games, the player using the new controller can have a different experience than those looking at the TV, offering a wide variety of competitive and cooperative opportunities.

In addition to the 6.2-inch screen, the new controller also features an accelerometer and a gyroscope, a rumble feature, an inward-facing camera, a microphone and speakers.

NINTENDO kicked off its E3 Expo Presentation by announcing a number of initiatives to celebrate the 25th anniversary of The Legend of Zelda. A remastered 3D version of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, launches for Nintendo 3DS on June 19, while Wii

Wii U combines motionsensing game play with the ability to support full HD graphics. Each Wii U console will be partnered with a new controller and can also use up to four additional Wii Remote™or Wii Remote Plus controllers. The system is also backward compatible and can play all Wii games and use

all Wii accessories. The Wii console has sold more than 86 million units globally and greatly expanded the overall audience for video games. Wii U aims to expand that audience even further.

Developers worldwide are already working on new games and experiences for the console.

owners will see the arrival of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, in the 2011 holiday season. Additionally, Nintendo announced a tour of orchestral concerts featuring music from the beloved franchise. Additional commemorative activities will be announced at a later date.

18 GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs Skoda shows new Fabia sport SKODA is showcasing the Fabia vRS 2000 design concept this summer in Germany at the GTI Treffen. The Fabia vRS 2000 concept car has been developed and built specifically for the GTITreffen. Drawing on the Fabia Super 2000 rally car, Skoda’s designers have created an original roadster pursuing a single goal - dynamism and the joy of sporty driving. Based on the Skoda Motorsport’s broad rally car, the Fabia vRS 2000 offers plenty of room for four occupants to climb in and sit in the car with ease. Besides the great view, the sharply sloping windscreen provides a constant supply of fresh air and a sense of being at one with nature.

The new concept Skoda Fabia vRS2000

FORD DEVELOPING NEW SMALLER ENGINES : BRIDGESTONE Ford is developing its smallest engine ever - a 1.0litre three-cylinder engine with EcoBoost technology. Ford says the engine will offer output comparable to a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine.

Horsepower and torque ratings were not immediately available.

The engine is expected to make its way into smaller Ford vehicles in the coming years.

Engineers in Britain developed the engine and it is likely to be marketed heavily in Europe. The engine uses turbo-charging, direct injection and twin-independent variable camshaft timing.

PRESTIGE, SPORTS AND CLASSIC CARS: THE inaugural Prestige, Sports and

Classic Car Sale and S h owc a s e , a m i x of the world’s most luxurious cars, combined with favourite classic cars, is set to take place on Saturday and Sunday, June 25 and 26 at the National Show Centre, Swords, near Dublin Airport.

The event promises to be a car enthusiast’s dream, with a broad range of vehicles onshow, from supercars and luxury vehicles to SUVs and classics.

Not only will visitors get to see these incredible cars up close, but many of the cars will also be on sale, with car dealers on hand to talk through the various models with visitors.

The National Show Centre, Swords, is located just minutes from Dublin Airport, the M1 and M50.

Tickets for the event can be purchased at the door.

Skoda is offering a thrifty petrol engine for the Octavia that’s almost comparable to diesel efficiency for an entry price that’s much more competitive at €19,710 before delivery charges

Skoda downsizes engine for the better Skoda has a new petrol engine option for the Octavia. MICHAEL MORONEY takes a test drive KODA has opted for some smart thinking by fitting the new 1.2-turbo petrol engine to the Octavia, giving it petrol-engine smoothness coupled with power and fuel economy. And, as the car is very affordable, I thought that it was well worth a test drive.

The 1.2-litre engine might appear underwhelming in terms of its size, but it’s far from that in terms of performance.

For smoothness of driving, Skoda had matched the engine with its smooth DSG automatic -type gearbox making the car an absolute pleasure to drive.

T h e 1. 2 - l i t r e T S I

S

SPECS: Skoda Octavia 1.2 TSI Top speed: 192 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 10.8 secs Economy: 16.9 km/ litre (5.9 l/100km) CO2 emissions: 134g/km Road Tax Band: B (€156) Entry Price: €19,710

engine develops a healthy 105bhp, so there’s plenty of power on demand.

That’s the same level of power that you get from the Skoda 1.6-TDI diesel version. And, while the torque figure for the petrol car is marginally lower than the diesel model, it can still better the diesel power in terms of accel-

eration.

This 1.2-litre TSI model is marginally faster from stop, with a 0 to 100km/ hr acceleration figure of just 10.8 seconds.

While it’s not at diesel CO2 levels just yet, with a figure of 134g CO2, it’s not far off many diesel cars, and that’s with the DSG gearbox fitted.

It matches the CO2 output of the 1.6-TDI versions, with the DSG system. So, when it comes to this new Skoda Octavia option, you can have your cake and eat it.

This engine can achieve this higher efficiency because the petrol is injected directly into the engine. This

gives a higher compression ratio, which increases the heat efficiency and fuel efficiency of the engine. The fuel economy figure at 16.9 km/litre (5.9 l/100km) is slightly lower than 1.6-litre diesel cars.

The 1.6-litre Skoda Octavia diesel is rated to be about 20% more fuelefficient but the buying price difference is almost €3,500. And that’s a lot of petrol over the lifetime of the car.

For short distance drivers, this new Skoda has strong appeal. The big bonus, I think, is the DSG gearbox; don’t buy an Octavia without at least test driving it; you’ll

be quickly convinced about its merits.

The new Skoda Octavia 1.2-TSI has all of the features of the standard model, including remote central locking, front electric windows and the ESP stability programme for added safety.

The Octavia is well equipped in terms of safety features, with driver and passenger airbags, side airbags and driver seat-belt warning lights.

It’s been a while since it was tested in the Euro NCAP crash test programme, 2004 in fact, so it needs an upgrade from its 4-star rating back then. Maybe we’ll get that soon.

Two weeks to go to the end of scrappage scheme THERE’S just two weeks to go to the end of the Government Car Scrappage Scheme and many motorists are expected to try and avail of last-minute deals.

So far to the end of May this year, some 9,630 cars were sold under the scheme. On top of the 17,272 cars in 2010, this gives an idea of how many have

responded to the offer, which, in most cases, was topped up by a manufacturer deal.

New car value has never been better and there are only days left to avail of the offers. Commenting on the figures, the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) director general, Alan Nolan said: “We predicted that

10,000 scrappage cars would be sold this year. We’re not far off that mark and should exceed the figure by the time the scheme ends on June 30. It’s important to recognise what scrappage has achieved. Even after the Government discounts, over €86 million has been generated in VAT and VRT for the Govern-

ment, so the scheme has made significant revenue for the Government.

“Of course, the main benefit is for the motorist who has got a fantastic deal under the scheme and, with an environmental focus, they are also benefiting from cheaper running costs too.”

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Mixing up some luxury with real family fun The Imperial Hotel packages for a truly Corkonian experience

THE Queen’s visit to Cork proved to be a huge success and, following in her Majesty’s footsteps, the Imperial Hotel in the heart of Cork City has introduced a great new package to give visitors a truly Corkonian experience.

Enjoy three night’s city centre accommodation in the charming opulence of the four-star hotel, with a full Irish breakfast each morning. Dine like a king or queen, with dinner on one evening in the Imperial’s own newly-refurbished Pembroke Seafood Bar and Grill, plus a lunch filled with local produce at the Farmgate Restaurant inside the place that really captured HRH’s heart, the Old English Market.

Next, sit back and enjoy a drive around all the main sights of the area from the Cork Open Top City Bus Tour, before being pampered with a wash and blow dry in the hotel’s Aveda hair salon, as well as access to the Escape Spa. As well as a box of chocolates in your room on arrival, you will also receive a royal invitation to return to the Imperial for a complimentary night on a later occasion.

This package is only valid for July and August, from €189 per person sharing, subject to availability.

For more information, contact the Imperial Hotel, Cork on 021 4274040 or visit www.flyn nhotels.com

A stay in Europe’s first hotel to offer a women-only floor PLANNING a girl’s only weekend? Then make Copenhagen the city of choice and book a room at the newly-opened Hotel Bella Sky Comwell, Europe’s first hotel to offer a women-only floor.

Women-only areas in hotels are increasingly popular around the world, but this is a first for Denmark, and also Europe.

Hotel Bella Sky Comwell in Copenhagen, the largest hotel in Scandinavia with 814 rooms, had no doubts when it came to reserving an entire floor for women only. The hotel management asked a number of influential and well-travelled Danish women whether they felt there was a requirement for their own floor, and over half of the women surveyed would prefer to stay on a women-only floor. As a result, the bedrooms and bathrooms have been designed specifically with women in mind.

Guests of the special Bella Donna floor at the Bella Comwell in Copenhagen join other guests for meals, so rest assured, even if you’re on a girls’ only break, you still might bump into a handsome stranger over breakfast.

CORMAC CURTIS

OK. This week I’m wearing my dad hat again – and why not? After all, Father’s Day is just around the corner, so I can be as opinionated as I want to be, for a change!

This time last year, I was due to spend a weekend at a well-known family hotel in the south-east with my family, during which, in honour of the aforementioned Father’s Day, I was to enjoy a little dad time – some golf, a massage, even an hour or two with the weekend newspapers and a quiet pint - heaven.

On the morning we were due to head down there, my wife, Susan, who was in the middle of starting up her own business (in the throes of a recession, go figure) was called away at the last minute. So, I found myself heading down the N11 to spend Father’s Day with my two young daughters, just the three of us.

Needless to say, any chance of a little dad time disappeared quicker than you can say ‘golf clubs.’

To cut a long story s h o r t , my we e ke n d turned out to be a surprisingly relaxed affair, as the hotel, famed for its familyfriendly hospitality, managed to arrange our time in a way that afforded me plenty of opportunities

to unwind while the kids were engaged in other activities.

The point is – with the right service, anything is possible.

So, fast forward a year(ish), and this time with both parents accounted for, we are heading towards the wonderful town of Kenmare for a few days of family fun at the Sheen Falls Lodge.

accolades, including multiple honours from AA, Conde Nast, Relais & Chateaux, Zagat, Georgina Campbell’s Jameson Guide and the Bridgestown guide.

So, I was more than willing to give it a try.

The first time my wife and I visited here happened to be the very same weekend in 2009 – the weekend of the Heineken Cup Final. And, just like

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‘I had visited the Sheen Falls before, and I can say that it is simply one of the finest luxury hotels in the country’

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To be honest, when the offer of a family weekend at the Sheen Falls was first mooted – I wasn’t entirely convinced it would work all that well; we had, in the past, spent a few days in the same neck of the woods at another luxury hotel, but they simply didn’t have the experience with kids and a family’s requirements to make it work.

Don’t get me wrong, I had visited the Sheen Falls before, and I can say without fear of contradiction, that it is simply one of the finest luxury hotels in the country.

It boasts an extraordinary list of awards and

in 2009, the boys in blue, Leinster, were set for a dramatic climax to the season.

Was I a little disappointed to be missing another huge moment for Leinster? I was gutted.

When it comes to my allegiance to Leinster, well, let’s just say I’m no stranger to blue and gold face paint!

But, that said, if you’re going to miss a cup final, there really is nowhere else I would rather be than this hotel, nestled away in a quiet and most beautiful corner of Kerry.

The real test of a quality hotel, however, is how

well the staff can handle a crisis.

After about an hour on the road from Dublin, my four-year-old, Cici, began to feel unwell.

From there, most of drive was taken up with the little one either sleeping or getting sick.

Needless to say, we had a fair amount of dirty laundry when we reached the hotel.

It was a genuine relief to be welcomed by such understanding people.

T he dir ty clothes were whisked away to be cleaned for us, and, because Cici had to go straight to bed, the restaurant menu was delivered to the room for me to peruse at my leisure as my wife and eldest daughter, Becky, went downstairs for a relaxed dinner.

What can I say? I would love to describe my meal as room service unlike anything I had ever experienced, but what I enjoyed was fine dining served to my room without even the slightest compromise.

You can’t describe a starter of lobster prepared three ways – smoked, grilled and tempura fried with a lime chilli sorbet - followed by a main course of caramelised scallops with a salad of haricot vert beans and a plum tomato tartare and chive olive oil, as room

The luxurious Sheen Falls Lodge, above, and, opposite, fun for all the family with mud surfing at the Eclipse Adventure Centre in nearby Kenmare

service. This was so much more than that.

After the long and eventful drive earlier in the day, to see my youngest comfortably tucked in to her bed as I tucked into this stunning meal, and knowing that Susan was enjoying a grown-up dining experience with her very-grown-up five-yearold downstairs, really did leave me in a state of incredibly content satisfaction.

After a perfect night’s sleep, we got tucked in to breakfast downstairs.

One very hungry daughter, who was feeling much better, put away more than one bowl of rice crispies, while the other discovered, much to her delight, the wonders of pancakes and maple syrup.

Eggs, sausage, bacon, pastries, cold meats, bread, fresh coffee and tea were enjoyed as we prepared for a day of family activi-

16 June 2011 GAZETTE 21

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs

Going back in time to one of Ireland’s most lavish Georgian homes, now a country house hotel

Top, Becky and Cici enjoy the kid-friendly dining room, while, above, Cici gets to grips with her trusty steed

THREE-NIGHT FAMILY FUN AT THE FALLS This package costs €999 and includes: overnight accommodation in a deluxe room, complimentary accommodation for up to two children sharing with their parents; full Irish breakfast; transfers and full-day access to the Kids Camp at The Eclipse Centre, including lunch.

This package is available Monday-Friday (weekends on request), July 4 and August 26. A five-night package is available for €1,422 in total, which includes a complimentary night.

For further information, telephone 064 6641600 or visit www. sheenfallslodge.ie or join them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ sheenfallslodge. ties at the nearby Eclipse Adventure Centre (www. eclipseireland.com).

The rest of the morning and afternoon brought together a number of families staying at the hotel together for an array of activities that even the heavy rain couldn’t put a damper on.

To start, the group was treated to a session of laughter yoga, something that was new to even the most experienced guru of the alternative therapies

in our group.

While this was going on, some of the younger ones, mine included, were treated to pony rides – delight doesn’t even begin to describe the feelings this brought to their little faces.

Before the rides, the kids were brought to each of the stables and introduced to all of the horses and ponies, and, after a talk about safety, and how to approach the animals, it was off

to fetch riding helmets and to mount their trusty steeds.

I don’t recall ever seeing a happier group of children – even if the rain didn’t let up for a second.

After a cup of hot coffee, the group headed off around the centre’s grounds for a quick orienteering session before we were treated to mud surfing! An extraordinary activity that involves riding on a modified surf-

board that is dragged through the mud by a quad bike! A must for the young, the young-at-heart and the brave-hearted.

Tired, wet, cold and weary, we all tucked in to a well-deserved lunch back at the hotel before Becky and Cici dragged me to the swimming pool, until about 10 minutes before the Heineken Cup kicked off.

I must admit, that trailing the Northampton Saints by 16 points left me wondering how I was going to find a way to enjoy the rest of the weekend – but I have a feeling the hotel manager put a quick call in to the Leinster coach at half time to provide the dads of our group with the most incredible comeback of all time, as Leinster turned the game around to win.

Now that dad was back in jovial form, even if my delighted outbursts in the

second half did scare the bejesus out of the kids, we got to tuck in to an incredible BBQ-style meal overlooking the river bank, just as the rain cleared for the evening.

The BBQ experience is something the hotel is offering throughout the summer, even to nonresidents, and I have to recommend it if you find yourself in the area.

All-in-all, this was a weekend to remember.

We spend so much time these days arranging family holidays and breaks laden-down with buckets, spades and everything else, it is nice to know that there is at least one place that, when the budget allows for it, offers a wonderful and unique mix of grown-up luxury and incredible, fun-filled family memories that won’t be soon forgotten, with the right staff and attitude to really make it work.

SITUATED at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains is Ballyfin, which has long been admired as one of the most lavish Georgian homes in Ireland.

It is a small country house hotel that looks set to make its mark in Ireland and beyond.

Recent renovations carried out at Ballyfin were undertaken with the aim of returning it as closely as possible to how it functioned when it was built.

The house’s magnificent interiors are decorated with Irish art and antiques from around the world, in the same spirit of refined elegance that the early house reflected in the 1820s. For today’s guest, though, formality is blended with an informal relaxed and easy-going approach.

With just 15 bedrooms, the new hotel really has all the flavour of a grand private house.

Step outdoors to enjoy 600 acres of private parkland, a 28-acre lake, ancient woods, follies and grottoes. The hotel also features two beauty treatment rooms, a gym and an indoor pool.

22 GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Aoife Long, La Sirena, Mexican restaurant

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS CAN I RUN AWAY TO THE STATES FROM MY €5,000 DEBT? Q – I HAVE a long-term €5,000 credit card debt, and have been unable to make any dent on it as I am earning little income. I have also just received my visa to work in the States. What happens if I don’t pay – will they come after me in the US? Tommy – Inchicore A - THERE is a certain element of irresponsibility creeping in here. You did, after all, spend the money yourself and, while I empathise with your income issues here in Ireland, to completely renege on your debt now is not only morally unfair, but may come back to haunt you in later years.

Let me explain. The Irish Credit Bureau (ICB), based in Clonskeagh, Dublin 14, has a membership of nearly 100 financial institutions that record all their credit transactions in the ICB – slow or missed payments, legal judgements etc are all recorded.

That “missed payment” stays on record for five years, while judgments are there for life!

Just remember, every time a loan is requested, the first thing the lender does is check with the ICB on the borrower’s credit history. Simple, really: if you have a bad record, you don’t get the loan.

Plus, if you apply for the same loan with numerous lenders, those lenders can see the enquiries coming in, and know that you are doing the rounds looking for funding.

Therefore, when and if you come back from the States, and if you look to borrow for whatever purpose, there may be a little surprise for you from that lender, as I am sure the credit card debt – while it will be written off – will have a judgment put against you, and placed on record.

Those of you who are unsure of your credit history can contact ICB, send a cheque for €6 and request your own credit report.

So, the best advice? Do your best to try and honour your commitments – what goes round, comes round.

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

Celebrating the best of fine Mexican fare AOIFE Long, from La Sirena, Dublin’s newest Mexican restaurant, grew up in Malahide.

She went to Loreto College, St Stephen’s Green, and then on to study advertising in DIT Aungier Street, where her intention was to become a copywriter.

Her favourite food is, of course, Mexican. This love affair started when she was a waitress and tequila girl in Judge Roy Beans in the 90s to get her through college.

Her love of food began when she spent some time travelling around, where different cultures of food inspired her to become more involved in the food industry.

Aoife decided to move back to Malahide after living abroad and in Dublin city centre for a few years.

She says that she and her partner always felt there was a gap in the market for a contemporary Mexican restaurant, combining old-world traditional Mexican flavours and authenticity with new-world technique and modern presentation.

La Sirena strives to dispel the misconceptions of over-spiced and stodgy “TexMex” cuisine by showcasing fresh, sustainable, and flavourful dishes that are rooted in authentic Mexican culture, and rich

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complex salsas and sauces, using imported Chiles, spices, and herbs directly from Mexico.

To complement the Mexican pantry, La Sirena only uses the finest locallyproduced meats, seafood, and vegetables, says Aoife.

Q&A Q: What sport can you play?

A: I run, go to the gym and

Q: What was your first job?

A: Tequila girl in Judge Roy

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

A: The television show, Snog

Beans

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: I remember being 15, very happy, and proud that I earned my own money

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: Middle-2010, although it was Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Seeing a full restaurant with lots of happy faces after eating the food

Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’?

A: I leave the cooking to the professionals

Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com

culinary history.

The restaurant showcases specialities from the northern regions of Baja to the southern states of Oaxaca and the Yucatan, and every where in-between.

The chefs prepare everything in-house, from sour cream (crema) to delicate and

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

A: My own boss

in planning for some time

TELL US YOUR NEWS

Aoife Long, La Sirena Mexican restaurant

play tennis – very badly!

Marry Avoid

Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward?

A: David Norris, of course Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: A serious mixture of music for me; lots of heavy, ambient, jazzy stuff ... you name it - I’ve got it

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Pablo Picante, Boojum, Wahaca and Meztizo London, to name but a few

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Nothing in particular, but,

Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update?

A: Starter: Alambres de Chor-

once Ireland are involved, I’ll watch it

izo, slow-cooked, black bean

and chorizo stew with adobobraised pork over golden corn chilaquiles, topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese and Pico de Gallo; Main: Tampico surf and turf platter grilled 6oz. beef fillet with jumbo prawns in mild Chipotle Glaze, corgette batons in lime and garlic butter, and Queso Dobladita – served with Salsa Guajillo

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Anything Mexican, obviously

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

A: Enda Kenny; get him drunk on margaritas and tequila and see what he is really like. He can’t really be as stiff as he looks – or can he?

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Unfortunately, due to opening a new business, I am not spending at the moment, but

when I do spend, I am a big internet shopper – clothes, shoes, bags and even cookbooks

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: About 30 Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Last year, we went to France, and I was expecting delicious food every day. Unfortunately, I did not get one good meal.

Being a big foodie, I was so disappointed! It was very unlike my other visits to France, where I have had the most delicious meals

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Sun, sea and a good book Q: What would be your dream job?

A: I have my dream job Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: Travel, chill, relax and enjoy my family

16 June 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 23

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC Alt-folk duo, The Pierces, come of age at last Q ROB HEIGH

After six years Kate Bush has returned with re-recorded classics on Director’s Cut

REVIEW: KATE BUSH RETURNS TO HER 90S’ RELEASES

Back to the future with Director’s Cut Q ROB HEIGH

THE ever-glorious Kate Bush returns to her mid90s’ canon to refresh the palette for the music yet to come...

Awaited like the return of a comet, Kate Bush has kept her legions of fans on tenterhooks in recent years.

After the initial burst of activity that saw her release four albums in four years, to four albums in 20 after 1985’s epic Hounds Of Love, anything that resembles a note on record is greeted with massive anticipation.

So, six years after Aerial, another masterpiece in her canon, and in the absence of new material, Kate has returned to her 90s’ releases, The Sensual World and The Red

Shoes, in order to address the “hard-edged sound” of the original digital recordings and re-make the songs the way her original vision saw them.

Some tracks are entirely re-recorded - This Woman’s Work, Rubberband Girl and Moments of Pleasure - but each of the 11 tracks has new vocals, and the deeper and more mature sound of that unique instrument is apparent from the first “Yes” on Flower Of The Mountain.

With re-recorded drum and bass parts, there is something unquestionably warmer about these re-recordings, and the new versions of Lily, The Red Shoes and Top Of The City are - heresy warning here - better than their original versions to these ears, at

least. Whether the world needed another version of Deeper Understanding is questionable though.

A deep love for the original recordings might hinder some from entirely embracing this approach, but, honestly, anything with Kate’s presence is to be treasured.

The box set edition features remastered editions of the original recordings of Sensual World and Red Shoes, and it’s part of the joy of listening, to return to these and comparing their original incarnations with their new, retooled versions.

The creative process has apparently inspired Kate and there are, apparently, recording sessions going on in her home studios right now. Of course, given her attention to detail and artis-

tic approach, it could be another six years before we see any new material.

But if Director’s Cut has awakened Kate’s muse once again, it has to be hailed as a wonderful thing.

The Sensual Walk

Kate fans in Dublin may be interested in attending the fourth Sensual Walk in Howth on Saturday, June 18 from 2pm.

T h i s e ve n t i s a n excuse for fans of Kate Bush, James Joyce, or otherwise, to celebrate Bloomsday with a stroll in one of Dublin’s most spectacular landscapes, which has particular relevance this year with the re-recording of The Sensual World, with the Joyce estate’s blessing to use the original text from

Ulysses on Flower Of The Mountain.

Attendees will meet up at the Howth Head car park before walking to the summit of Howth Head for some music, peaches and seed-cake, followed by a leisurely cliff-walk down into the village of Howth for refreshments. The evening part of the event will be held in Odessa in Dublin City Centre, where the music and craic continues.

Acts who will be performing in the evening will include Captain A, Mike Stevens of Groom and the Lie-ins, Richer than Astronauts, Jeroen Saegeman of Walpurgis Family and the Prairie Dawgs For more information, contact sean@katebushnews.com or see www. katebushnews.com.

BROOKLYN based duo, The Pierces, hit their breakthrough stride with their fourth album, You & I. Having built up a legacy in the alt-folk scene since early 2000, the Pierces’ lack of success was inversely proportional to their obvious talent and appeal.

Now, with their fourth album having the backing of Coldplay’s Guy Berryman as coproducer with Rik Simpson, who has previously been at the mixing desk for Jay-Z, Kasabian and PJ Harvey, the Pierces look set to achieve the breakout success their delicate, melodic tunes deserve.

Raised on Joni Mitchell and Paul Simon, Allison and Catherine Pierce have a strong melodic sense that weaves through all of the tracks on You & I. There are echoes of Aimee Mann’s band, Til Tuesday, and The Byrds, in the arrangements and harmonies that wrap you up and hold you entranced as you listen.

It’s not often that I put an album on repeat on my generic mp3 player of choice, but I did, and, before I knew it, I’d listened to You & I straight through twice.

When things take on a slower tempo, on tracks like The Good Samaritan, the Pierces’ Alabama roots come through, their southern drawl seeps through the harmonies and give the sound a sun-bleached Americana feel.

Elsewhere, the music resembles a late 60s’ Atlantic Records sound, like the best moments of Dusty In Memphis, and a fine affinity with the smooth tones of classic 70s’ American rock like Rumours-era Fleetwood Mac. There’s clearly a powerful depth of musical heritage at work here, and the Pierces don’t hesitate to let their influences inform their direction in every song, light and shade in every twist and turn.

You & I is shot through with delicious melodies and laser-sharp harmonies that have you hooked. This is where the Pierces take off.

Brooklyn based duo, The Pierces

24 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT THE HELIX 01 700 7000 Don McLean

WORLD-famous musician and singer-songwriter Don McLean will play The Helix soon, bringing the voice of a true legend to Dublin. Although bestknown for his timeless tracks, American Pie, and Vincent (Starry Starry Night), McLean has a wide-ranging body of work, with songs that have delighted listeners around the world for decades, and all presented in style by one of America’s most charming musical artists – and legends. Don plays The Mahony Hall at 8pm on Friday, June 17, with tickets priced at €45/41.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Tarry Flynn

THE Gazette is still presenting the life of a 1930s’ Cavan farmer for your consideration, with the life of the poet and dreamer about to conclude in this celebratory fifth anniversary show at The Mill, which is marking its birthday in style with this superb production. There’s something for everyone in this production, with this tale of a simple man with a complex heart from a bygone era having much to enjoy for audiences today. This great production runs until Saturday, June 18, with admission at €18, €15.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 DLR Glasthule Opera Festival

THE Pavilion builds upon its notable cultural credentials by hosting DLR Glasthule Opera, who are presenting a number of favourite operas at the theate. Superb Irish singers will present Verdi’s La Traviata, and Mozart’s The Magic Flute, building on the success of the opera company’s previous highly-popular productions. For full details of these productions, which run until Sunday, June 19, and with admission at €42/45, see paviliontheatre.ie.

Man 1 Bank O FOR those who prefer more easygoing entertainment, The Pavilion presents Man 1 Bank O, the amusing and amazing – but true – story of how one man deposited a $95,093.35 junk-mail cheque into his bank account, as a joke, and the saga that ensued after his bank cleared it.

Described as an unbelievable David vs Goliath comedy (which happens to be true), the international smash-hit show by Patrick Combs plays on Wednesday, June 22, at 8pm, with tickets from €12.80 to €18.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Zocorro Rose of Tralee

THE classic, timeless – and some would say, dull – world of The Rose of Tralee is shaken down by this tale of a would-be Spanish Rose, Zocorro, who’s determined to talk about loving children, working in hospitals, and doing and saying whatever she needs to in order to claim the crown, and win a Volvo. However, Spanish passion and a flair with the facts may not be quite enough to see her take the prize, with some unexpected prizes along the way ... Having enjoyed great success and acclaim at a variety of festivals, this satirical alternative look at the much-loved Irish institution is sure to be a hit at Draiocht, where it runs on Friday, June 17 and Saturday, June 17, at 2pm and 8.15pm. Tickets are priced at €14/€10 conc.

The Illegals STAYING with Draiocht, The Illegals are set to shake off any weekend sleepiness with their tribute to The Eagles and Fleetwood Mac, featuring Eurovision singer Niamh Kavanagh. A busy band will join Niamh in creating an unforgettable night for fans of these American giants, showcasing the astounding skill of this memorable tribute band. The show starts at 8pm in the Main Auditorium on Saturday, June 18 at 8pm, with tickets costing €20/€16 conc.

Perhaps Hal Jordan (Ryan Reynolds) would be less inclined to take the mysterious, floating magic ring of a dying space alien if he thought of the consequences of joining an intergalactic police force of do-gooders facing an all-powerful enemy ...

Not a torching movie Kate says you won’t find any moving thoughts on the human condition in this very silly, and popcorn-light, superhero film Q KATE CROWLEY

REGULAR readers – oh, please, let there be such a thing – will be well aware that, for some weeks now, I’ve been championing the return of Mel Gibson to cinema screens, via his meisterpiece, The Beaver – the haunting tale of an emotionally traumatised man, who communicates through the world via a beaver hand puppet, and – Wait! Come back!

Tragically, although Mel’s release finally jimmies open the back door of a few cinemas this week, ready to sneak onto a few unwary screens here and there (possibly closely followed by the Four Horsemen of the Apocalpyse), quality control issues – and the fact that it’s a Mel Gibson film about a beaver hand puppet – force me to turn reluctantly instead towards The Green Lantern.

Peering through the

FILM OF THE WEEK: The Green Lantern +++ (12A) 114 mins Director: Martin Campbell Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Tim Robbins, Peter Sarsgaard, Angela Bassett, lots of alien Green Lanterns

OUR VERDICT: FOR once, Kate almost enjoys a film, as she finds The Green Lantern to be so ridiculously silly, she can’t quite dislike it as much as it possibly deserves. So, as far as superhero films about men in tights battling all-powerful, planet-conquering superaliens – who, err, can still be defeated by a puny human – this Lantern’s all right, and will probably light up box office receipts well enough, for a while ...

gloom with my stylish new glasses – which don’t remotely resemble two coke bottles tied together with rusty wire, regardless of what my daughter, dear Crowleyetta, insists – I spy a well-polished tribute to the iconic character of the same name.

(Or, so I’m told, as I’d easily get Batman and Superman’s capes mixed up in the wash, and not really know any better.)

A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away ... the Green Lanterns were created; an intergalactic police force of do-gooders, formed to keep watch

over all the intelligent planets, checking that the indicator lights of any passing spaceships were working, and generally keep an eye out for any bad guys/aliens.

Harnessing the natural forces of the universe to do good, via their magic green rings (I’m paraphrasing, folks), the Lanterns are ever-vigilant, and entirely alien – until, that is, trouble breaks out, courtesy of an intergalactic baddie, and a mortally injured Green Lantern crashlands on modern Earth.

Hal Jordan (Rey-

nolds) is chosen by the dying Green Lantern’s ring as his replacement; the plucky pilot being selected as being good and worthy enough to join the vast ranks of the Lanterns.

It’s not long before Hal’s hot-footed it across the galaxy, courtesy of his amazing new ring – and his natty new Green Lantern – to the Lanterns’ home planet, where, as the first human to be accepted into the ranks, he has to prove himself.

Under the ever-watchful guise of ... err ... um... sorry folks, I’m generally hopeless at remembering aliens’ names, so let’s just say Mark Strong and Geoffrey Rush – Hal commences his training to be a new Lantern.

However, for every force in the universe, there is an opposing one, and the Lanterns’ newest bright-eyed recuit has joined the ranks just as their greatest enemy has

arisen – Parallax, a swirling, bad-tempered mass of negativity (not entirely unlike Mr Crowley, when asked to cut the grass on Sundays).

Not only that, but a pesky scientist back on Earth (Sarsgaard) is also creating trouble, thanks to his unusual new powers granted by the crashlanded Green Lantern’s wreckage.

So, despite being an amateur, Hal has to find the power within to rise to the challenge and – well, you can figure the rest out yourselves.

Forget any thoughts of lashings and lashings of angst – oh, the angst!

– which have soaked too many films lately like cheap vinegar, as The Green Lantern is entirely, blatantly and enthusiastically silly.

I can’t take to the foolishness of an expressive beaver, but this film’s silliness is on a whole new – and acceptable – level ...

16 June 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 25

Microsoft’s smart update plans ADAM MAGUIRE

IN A world increasingly dominated by tablets and smartphones, Windows 7 – the current operating system from Microsoft – is starting to look a little old-fashioned.

As a result, it should be no surprise to learn that a successor is on the way, and initial details and features have recently been made public.

What is it?

An operating system is the software layer that lets you use a computer without knowing complex code – basically, it’s what creates the icons and graphics you see on-screen all the time.

so will work on tablets, as well as desktop computers.

Windows 8 – as it is called, for now – is the one Microsoft will launch next.

It will follow in the footsteps of the likes of Windows 98, XP, and Windows 7, and will be heavily inspired by touch-based devices that are on the rise today – designed to be used by hand gestures just as much as by keyboard and mouse, and

What does that mean?

While you might be used to those little icons and loads of menus at the moment, Windows 8 will use bigger tiles as part of its main menu.

This will mean that applications will sit like squares and rectangles on the screen, and will often show off live information, such as details of updates on Facebook, or news stories from your favourite websites.

The idea is that you, as a user, can customise the tiles so it shows information you want to see at a glance. Basically, the device will work more like a smartphone does now – specifically, Windows’

own Phone 7 platform.

So, the old desktop format is gone?

Not completely. Microsoft realises that some people like the way things are, so it will have the old interface underneath – for those who wish to can stick with that, if they want.

When is it available?

There is no set date just yet, but predictions are that the platform will not debut for another year at least, most likely appearing before Christmas, 2012. Of course, a year is a long time in technology, and there is a lot here that could change in the meantime.

Indeed, a lot of Windows 7’s most ambitious features were reigned back before it launched,

and the same could happen here. That will only become clear when Windows 8 – or whatever it eventually becomes – is put on the shelves.

Vodafone 858 Smart As one of the neatest and smallest of Android phones to hit the market, the Vodafone 858 Smart is a great entry-level and child-friendly device.

With much of the smartphone market a bit of an arms race today, with screen sizes and processor speeds going up only, the Vodafone 858 Smart bucks the trend.

The device has a miniscule 2.8-inch screen, a tiny frame, and a fairly average bit of tech powering the whole thing.

That is not to suggest that everything about this device is second-class.

It runs on Android 2.2 (one of the newest versions of the software), has a fairly decent 2MP camera, and all the connectivity yo you ou would need, eed d, including Bluetooth and WiFi. But the he truth is that a at the smalll screen will be an issue for a lot of people.

It will be hard to text or type on if your fingers are in any way big, and viewing websites and pictures is not particularly easy if you are used to bigger devices.

However, if you fit that category, this phone is

not for you – it is really designed for the low-function and young market.

This is an entry-level device for Android, or something so for teens a n d tweens on a budget to use.

To that extent, this e does the d job, jo o bringing in n smartphone style ph h to a currently underserved und d area a of the market.

The Vodafone 858 Smart is available for €39.99 on pre-pay.

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

GAZETTE

26 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 16 June 2011

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

Outline Permission is sought for 15 residential units comprising 9# 2 bed dwellings, 2 #2-bed duplex units over 2 #1 bed units and 2# 3-bed units adjacent to Full Planning Approved 2-bed replacement main dwelling approved 21-Jan-2011 ref D10A/0645 total 16 units on .72 hectare site, with ancillary services, landscaping at ‘Rockhurst’, Enniskerry Road, Kilternan, Dublin 18 by C. MacDonnell.

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

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16 June 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

ON THE ROAD AGAIN: Cian Curley on his comeback to the European Tour: Page 29

CYCLING: 98FM’S CLAIRE SOLAN PROMOTES WEEK OF BIKING AWARENESS IN CITY

Get on your bike for fitness and fun in Dublin sport@gazettegroup.com

NEXT week is National Bike Week, an intiative to try to get the country cycling, and with the Tour De France looming, the success of local cycling clubs and the very successful reception to the Dublin smart bikes initiative, Dublin seems to be the place to get on your bike, both for fitness and for competitiveness.

As part of National Bike Week, Wednesday,

June 22 is Dublin Bike to Work Day, and 98FM DJ Claire Solan is inviting all people working within the city to participate in a fun and free leisurely lunchtime cycle, which takes place at 1pm from Grand Canal Square.

More and more people are choosing to travel by bike into the city, with numbers increasing by one-third in the last ten years. Dublin City Council’s aim is to encourage all employers and employees

throughout the city to take part in this year’s event.

Speaking to GazetteSport last week, Claire said: “The initiative is a chance to take a bike onto the street on, hopefully, a sunny day, starting and finishing at Grand Canal Dock. For someone who might be commuting in the city, who is sat in an office and keen to do something lively, it’s a great idea. And it’s great to get back on a bike if you haven’t been on one

98FM’s Claire Solan at Grand Canal Dock at the launch of the National Bike Week

for years.”

The focus is also on the health benefits for participants, and it is reported that about 40% of commutes to work in Dublin are less than 5km, which most people could easily cycle this distance in about 20 minutes.

“Most people would be like me, driving short distances to get to work,” said Claire. “It’s not good for you, not good for your car, and it would be a saving in all manner of ways for you to cycle to work at least a few days in the week.

“There are new cycle lanes appearing all over the city, and there are moves to make the city more cycle-friendly.

“The Dublin smart bikes initiative is one of the most successful rollouts of the campaign across Europe. It is huge-

ly popular, so obviously, people are interested in cycling a bit more regularly. Cycling is good for the environment, good for fitness levels, and it doesn’t cost a thing” To register for the event, log on to www.dublincitycycling.ie.

28 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport Rugby

FastSport FastRugby

HEINEKEN CUP: DUBLIN RECEIVES ACCOLADE OF CUP FINAL

Locals aid Jackies’ cause but Cork prevail A LARGE local contingent played their part for Dublin in their impressive run to the U-14 ladies football All-Ireland final but was unable to turn the Cork tide in last weekend’s final.

Kilmacud Crokes’ Lauren Magee – daughter of Hill 16 favourite Jonny – Aoife Kane, Emma Byrne and Holly Greer, Foxrock Cabinteely’s Ciara Crotty, Naomh Olaf’s Kate Murray and Ballyboden St Enda’s Zenouska Murphy all lined out in a brave performance, but were ultimately undone.

The signs were ominous right from the throwin. Two minutes on the clock and Cork led by 1-1 to no score, and Kate Leneghen should have goaled seconds later, but Dublin’s Shauna O’Hara denied her with a brilliant double-save.

It took a little while but Amy Conroy opened Dublin’s account with a well-taken point in the tenth minute before skipper Emma Colgan went on a surging solo run and her high, lobbing ball from 30 metres ended in the net.

However, and a run of 1-3 without reply in the space of three minutes had Cork leading by 2-4 to 1-1 after 17 minutes.

Points from Emma Byrne, Fiona Terry and a free by Megan Morrissey stemmed the tide somewhat, and the score was 2-5 to 1-4 at the interval.

Dublin started the second half strongly when Conroy set up Megan Morrissey, who took her point well. The wind was knocked out of the comeback sails almost instantly once again when Megan Connolly finished off a flowing move.

A Connolly penalty dinged the post in what could have been a killer blow, and it opened up a serious lifeline when Conroy went straight up the pitch to goal to leave just one between the sides.

But Cork regrouped, kept their defence tight and ran up 2-6 without response in the closing stages to run clear, scoring 1-3 in injury time.

IRFU Chief Executive Philip Browne, Leinster’s Shane Jennings, Leo Varadkar TD, Minister for Sport and Derek McGrath, ERC Chief Executive

Home rule for Blues sport@gazettegroup.com

SHANE Jennings believes that potential home advantage in the 2013 Heineken Cup final will provide extra motivation for Leinster as they bid to stay at the top of the European rugby pile.

The Rathfarnham man was speaking at the announcement that the Aviva Stadium’s will host the decider in a couple of years and said that playing at the Lansdowne Road venue – as well as Croke Park in previous times – was a huge boon for his Leinster side.

“For a player, it seems quite a long way away but, obviously, these structures have to be put

in place well in advance, but it’s fantastic news for the city and the country.

“Hopefully, from a personal point of view, Leinster can be there and for everyone else, Munster, Ulster and Connacht will be hoping to be there, or thereabouts, so it’s exciting times.

“It does bring a bit of extra motivation. From a player’s point of view, the one thing we’ve noticed is it is much easier at home than going away to places like Toulouse or Castres or places in England for a quarter-final or semifinal. So, as often as you can stay at home for big games, it helps with a final there, it serves as a big motivation.”

The news came in a week when Leinster were drawn to play Bath, Montpellier and Glasgow in the group stages of the title defence.

Group stages On paper, it is not one of the more intimidating groups but Jennings remains wary that every challenge has its potential for slip-ups.

“Initially, when you look at the draw, ever yone says we got a favourable draw but, at Leinster, we’re very realistic and we are certainly not thinking that way. They’re good teams. We played Bath a few years ago, a very physical side and were unlucky they didn’t get top four this season.

“Then we play Glas-

gow, who we’re quite familiar with [from the Magner’s League] so we feel we’ll have a good crack at them. Results over there haven’t been good over the years, so it will be tough.

“Montpellier, people don’t give too much credit to them because they’ve only come on the scene but they’ll be ver y difficult to

play over there, a good coach, good players.

“For the moment, though, you don’t pay a huge amount of attention to it until we get back to training in a few weeks but it is nice to look at it when you are top of the hill with the trophy. Everyone will be looking to pick us off so it will be a real good challenge for us.”

16 June 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 29

in association with

Cian on the comeback trail

FastSport

Back injury put paid to his start on the European quintet named Tour, but Newlands’ man, Cian Curley, is pitching Hermes in Ireland senior squad for a strong return to golf, says STEPHEN FINDLATER

FIVE months out of the game, Cian Curley is keen to make up for lost time on the Euro Pro Tour as he looks to finally get his professional career in gear.

The Newlands’ man joined the paid ranks back in September following his victory in the East of Ireland open but lasted just one tournament before a back ligament injury placed him on the remedial list.

It stunted his momentum but a fine run in Pro Tour qualifying school – taking a second and fifth place finish – has put his ambitions of reaching the European Tour

proper very much back into focus.

And the success of his regular playing partner from his amateur days, Shane Lowry, has given Curley the confidence to push on in the coming months.

Just two short years since his Baltray success, Lowry was making his majors debut at the US Open this week, and Curley says it is a source of inspiration, a feeling reinforced by his appearance at last year’s 3 Irish Open.

He told the Gazette: “The experience itself just gives you a taste.

You want to get out onto

Sinead McCarthy in action against Australia

the Tour as quick as you can. The main thing I took from it was seeing the standard and knowing you’re not that far away from it.

“When you’re grow-

also attend qualifying school for the European Tour later this year.

It offers a glimpse of the big time, the Sky Sports cameras covering the latter stages of

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

‘You want to get out onto the Tour as quick as you can. The main thing I took from the Irish Open was seeing the standard and knowing I wasn’t that far away’ --------------------------------------------------------

ing up, you think ‘these guys are so good, how am I ever going to be that good?’ But when you’re out there you realise, you’re not that far away and that you can hit the ball as well as any of them.

“I played a lot of the same representative teams as Shane, social golf with him, too. It’s the same thing as I said about the Irish Open.

“I don’t know if intimidating is the right word but it definitely helps you think you’re doing the right things, playing at the right level. At this stage, you do need a bit of luck and play well at the right times.

Shane played well at the right time and now look where he is.”

For the moment, Curley must bide his time on the Pro Tour, a third tier of competition that offers an avenue for its top five to a Challenger Tour card, while he will

each event, and there is a sense that Curley’s career is kicking on after his injury mishap.

Curley embarks on a hectic schedule this week, taking in two tournaments in Ireland and two in England in the next month before a one-week break and then another block of four tournaments.

Strong results there and the Newlands’ man will be in fine shape to move up the rankings while opportunity may knock if he can snag an invite to a Challenger event or the Irish Open, once again.

“I’m back now and got my full card on the Euro ProTour, played a few events and form is good and it’s going well so far.

“But it’s really only kicking off next week with four events in a row, and eight in the next nine weeks – the main chunk of the season.

“Getting injured was tough. Especially, in my first event, I was just excited to be playing my first pro event.

“At the time, I was a bit devastated. I had plans and it disrupted them because I was basically just sitting around and it got pretty boring.

“It made the winter a bit longer but at least it was the winter time that it happened and not in the middle of the season.”

The decision to go professional was cemented in the wake of his “break-out” success, taking the 2010 East of Ireland Open.

It came reasonably late by modern standards but the Lucan resident was keen to be in the right frame of mind for the big leap.

“It was the first big national event I won.

I’d competed a lot and been close in a good few events but never finished them off. But when I finished that one last year, it was a great feeling to get the monkey off my back.

“I wanted to turn pro.

Some say it’s quite late to turn pro at almost 25, but it was perfect time.

“I’d reached the top of the amateur game in Ireland and got a win under the belt. It wasn’t really a conscious decision to wait until I’d got the win, but I felt it was the right time.”

FIVE Hermes players have been named in the Irish women’s senior hockey team for the FIH Champion’s Challenge in Belfield this week, a tournament that brings eight of the world’s top 20 sides to Dublin.

Goalkeeper Emma Gray, Sinead McCarthy, Aine Connery, Audrey O’Flynn and Lisa Jacob are named in the side along with Loreto pair, Nicci Daly and Nikki Symmons, and Old Alex duo, Pamela Smithwick and Shirley McCay. The tournament gets underway on Saturday and runs for eight days.

At U-18 level, meanwhile, Mount Anville’s Aisling Naughton and Lisa McCarthy are part of the Irish U-18 side for next month’s European championships. Alexandra College are represented by Emily Beatty while Holy Child’s Emma Russell also gets the nod.

Newlands’ Hogan added to GUI select NEWLANDS’ golf club’s Andrew Hogan has been named in the list of five players selected by the Golfing Union of Ireland to compete in the 116th British Amateur Championship at Hillside and Hesketh Golf Clubs from this week.

He is included alongside Paul Cutler (Portstewart), Alan Dunbar (Rathmore), Andrew Hogan (Newlands), Dermot McElroy (Ballymena) and Reeve Whitson (Mourne).

They take part in a field of 288 worldranked amateur golfers from 35 countries competing

for the coveted trophy, a place in this year’s Open Championship and an invitation to the 2012 Masters Tournament.

Roche forced to quit finale of Criterium Dundrum cyclist Nicolas Roche bowed out of the Criterium du Dauphine after he was involved in a crash on the mountain stage to Les Gets last week.

The event, seen as a precursor to the Tour de France and an indicator of form for La Grande Boucle, saw Roche in fifth on the first mountain stage and was hoping for a strong finish to the event.

30 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 16 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: ROVERS SUCCESSES, BOTH DOMESTIC AND NATIONAL

Loreto hockey ladies hit European glory Broadford Rovers’ successful year included success on the pitch for their Under-8 side who achieved league victory

LORETO stormed to European glory last Monday in Lille when they claimed gold at the EuroHockey Club Champion’s Challenge II with a 7-1 win over Switzerland’s HC Olten.

Following three convincing group stage wins, Loreto finished in some style to win the tournament, the fourth tier of continental club competition.

It was a facile win, Niamh Small providing the creative spark. She opened the scoring in the 21st minute before Nikki Keegan netted the second a minute before half-time.

And the Dubliners cut loose after the break, adding three goals in eight minutes to put the result beyond doubt. They all came from penalty corners as tournament top-scorer Nikki Symmons, Cathy McKean and Small all found the net for 5-0.

Nadja Stampfli got a consolation strike 21 minutes from time but another pair of corner goals – Sarah Barnwell and skipper Nikki Keegan on the mark – completed the rout, finally bringing Loreto’s ten-month season to a close in some style.

Zayed strike Murphy keeps keeps Derry in 2012 in sight LoI contention with bronze DUNDRUM man Eamon Zayed snatched a secondhalf equaliser for Derry City on Monday night to earn a good point at Tallaght stadium on Monday night with a 1-1 draw.

His 13th strike of the season, continuing a run of his sixth goal in his last four game keeps the Foylesiders in touch of the top of the table, five points off Rovers after 16 games this term.

ANNALISE Murphy gave a significant boost to her London 2012 Olympic campaign when she took bronze at the Sail for Gold Regatta in Weymouth last Saturday.

The Laser Radial sailor from Rathfarnham won five races from the 11-race series and protected third in the medal race from the event which initially included 91 sailors, reduced to ten for the medal race.

Broadford celebrate year sport@gazettegroup.com

BROADFORD Rovers recently celebrated their 33rd year in existence with their Player of the Year presentation ceremony, which took place in Scoil Naithi.

It proved to be another successful event, with 20 teams representing the club’s schoolboy and schoolgirl sections, along with the two mens’ senior teams and the club’s academy kids all in attendance on the day.

The club continues to have its teams spread across the leagues, with their small-sided schoolboy and 11-a-side teams competing in the

DDSL and SDFL, the schoolgirl teams competing in the DWSL, and the senior mens’ teams competing in the Saturday Major and Sunday Intermediate sections of the LSL. The club continued to have a good level of success in 2010/11, with both of their DDSL Under-8 sides securing winner and runner-up spots in their respective leagues.

This was followed by the SDFL Under-13 side reaching the runners-up spot, following a great run of results in the latter end of their season.

Not to be outdone by the schoolboys, the

Eyes on the prize: Special Olympians gather for training ROBERT Deegan, from Ballinteer, pre-

pares to serve at the final residential training camp for Team Ireland ahead of the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games.

The team gathered at ALSAA on the Swords Road as they put the finishing touches to their preparation for the prestigious international event.

The 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games will take place in Athens from June 25 to July 4.

Under-15 schoolgirls took home the Wicklow Tournament trophy in April, and just missed out on a second League Cup trophy in May. In addition to this, their season was further enhanced by the selection of two of their players (Avril Brierley and Amy Corcoran) for the Irish International Under-15 squad.

This great achievement for the girls was capped off by Avril captaining the side on her debut against England in an invitational tournament and scoring the winning goal in a 2-1 victory.

The club’s Under-16

squad hit something of a club record by winning their third league title in a row – a great achievement for a squad of exciting players who the club hopes will one day progress into the senior squad.

Another milestone for one of the club players was Ben Mitchell, from the Under-17 squad, scoring his 100th goal for the club, and continuing to add to his record as the season came to an end.

The club’s Under-18 side reached the Christopher Cup Final but lost out by a single goal in a very tight game.

Broadford’s senior

men’s teams had mixed fortunes over the season, with the Saturday Major side losing out on their Major Division status after a hardfought campaign, and the Sunday Intermediate side cementing their place in the Senior Division 1 League for next season following a great run of form in the latter stages.

On a sad note for the club, their ex-chairman, Dermot Nealon, passed away suddenly in April.

Dermot had made a huge contribution to the club over his years with them and had only stepped down as chairman in May, 2010.

16 June 2011 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 31

in association with

SFC: KILMACUD TAKE THE SPOILS AT O’TOOLE PARK

a

CLUB NOTICEBOARD NAOMH OLAF THE Junior hurlers had an impres-

the club to feature in an All-Ireland

sive victory at home to Faugh’s in the

final.

championship on Sunday, winning

A night of celebration will be held in

by 1-10 to 0-6, despite the inclement

the club Thursday, June 23, to mark the

weather conditions. Well done, lads.

occasion of St Olaf’s NS boys’ teams

Best wishes to our Gaelic4Mothers

winning the double in both hurling and

in the Leinster blitz at Kinnegad next

football. Videos of both games will be

Saturday, June 18. Congratulations to

shown to the boys, their parents and

Kate Murray who came on as a sub in

teachers and all who wish to celebrate

the U-14 All-Ireland football final ver-

with them. A wall plaque marking the

sus Cork at Birr last Sunday. Although

occasion is being commissioned by the

the Dubs were well beaten by Cork, it

club and will be presented to Principal

is a great honour for Kate and, indeed,

Ger Murphy.

BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S

Kilmacud Crokes were without some significant players, but still had the measure of Thomas Davis

Crokes put delays and injuries aside SFC ROUND 2 Kilmacud Crokes 0-14 Thomas Davis 0-11 STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

R AY C o s g r ove w a s unleashed from the bench to make a vital impact as K ilmacud Crokes safely nego tiated their delayed second round of the Dublin Senior Football Championship last week, making it into the knock-out stages of the competition.

In a tight, and often times testy, affair, the Stillorgan club had the finishing power down the closing stretch to edge clear of Thomas Davis on a miserable night in O’Toole Park, in the process producing some lively football despite the wet conditions.

A string of frees had threatened to undo the reigning champions as four scores in succession put Davis 0-9 to 0-8 up with just under 20 minutes left on the

clock, as Paul Hudson and Ciaran Farrelly hit their straps and landed their efforts.

But Longford star Brian Kavanagh weighed in with a couple of frees to re-assert a Crokes’ lead, and, when former Dublin star Cosgrove was introduced, Kilmacud were finally able to pull clear of their opponents, aided by Kevin Nolan’s marauding score.

It was nip-and-tuck throughout the first period, Crokes missing a number of their talismanic players, including Ross O’Carroll, Wexford-tied Adrian Morrissey as well as the horribly unfortunate Paul Griffin who suffered a recent relapse of his long-standing cruciate injury.

Darren Magee and Mark Davoren also remained on the sidelines, but there was a welcome return for Rory O’Carroll following a couple of months in France, where he was

on university placement.

T h e e xc h a n g e o f scores star ted early, Farrelly’s first free cancelled out by Kavanagh’s first of his halfdozen, and he promptly put his side ahead after Pat Burke drew a foul.

Shane McGrath tied it up for a second time with a cracker and it was also level at 0-3 each – Liam Og O’hEineachain’s registering a double for Crokes – before Burke and Kavangh created the first little wedge between the teams just before half-time.

Crokes were pegged back for a 0-6 to 0-5 half-time lead, but they stretched their legs to move three clear early in the second half, before Davis stormed back with those four aforementioned frees in succession.

Kavanagh levelled the game for a fifth time in 43rd minute and it was anyone’s game until Cosgrove

switched to his left foot and cleared the bar with one of the scores of the night, helping Crokes to establish a three-point lead, which was not to be reeled in again before the final buzzer.

The 2009 champions Ballyboden St Enda’s, though, will wait to see if their bid for the title remains intact as they had a successful appeal to postpone their tie with St Mary’s. ’ B o d e n a s ke d f o r the postponement as Dublin hurlers Conal Keaney, Simon Lambert and Shane Durkan were not going to be released for the tie, with the Leinster SHC semifinal against Galway on the horizon for the county representatives.

Under the 13-day r ule, counties have call on players and the Dublin County Board would not be expected to make the fixture in that period.

The Disputes Rewsolution Authority upheld their complaint.

GOOD wins for Junior A and C hurlers

at the club and can organise taxis at

to keep championship campaign on

5.50pm. Walkers, please text Conor to

course.

organise numbers - 086 254 8986.

The club is now accepting applica-

A club top was left behind in Naas

tions for the Summer Camps. There is

by one of the Boden Juvenile hurling

a special Summer Camp website this

teams. Contact info@bodengaa.ie for

year- www.ballybodensummercamp.

details.

com.

Please join ’Boden Walkers for the Charity Pledge this week. Fun and a challenge assured in aid of Our Lady`s Hospice, Harold’s Cross. Also for June

Lotto week 50: Numbers drawn were 15, 3, 7 and 8. Jackpot of €7,000 was not won.

Six Match First Three Numbers winners.

16 (Bloomsday) Conor Sheehan will be

WANDERERS THE juvenile section open day last

members. Cotact Niall on 0868857303

Saturday was a great success with

or juveniles@wanderersgaa.ie for

everyone enjoying a day of fun and

more detail.

games at Frank Kelly Park. Thanks to

No winner of the lotto Jackpot. Num-

the Juvenile Committee for organising

bers drawn were 5, 19 and 30; €25 goes

another great day.

to Juen Keegan, Anto Kavanagh, Holly

Boys and girls’ training takes place every Saturday at 11am at Frank Kelly

Timmons and Peg Farrell. Next week’s jackpot is €1,200.

Park. All welcome. For more informa-

Congratulations to the junior A foot-

tion, parents should contact Eddie on

ballers who reached the Conlon Cup

0862536759 or Niall on 0868857303, or

Final this week. Dates and details of

email juveniles@wanderersgaa.ie.

final to follow.

Juvenile Summer Camp July 4 to 8.

Only €60 for members and €65 for non-

Junior As have a league game v Good Counsel at home on Friday night.

STARS OF ERIN The Under 8’s recorded a win over

Sinclair and Ciara Doyle who never

Trinity Gaels in hurling on Saturday

gave up battling. Well done again,

morning in Glencullen. After a shaky

Under-8s. The Under-9 hurlers

start, the young Stars rallied and

played St Patrick’s, Palmerstown,

came back into the game with steely

on Saturday in Glenaulin Park. The

determination and eventually ran

game turned into a mid-field battle

out comfor table winners. What

with both teams fighting to get the

made the victory more impressive

upper hand. After and end-to-end

was the fact the team were missing

game the sides ended in a draw. The

five key players. Special mention

Under-11 hurlers had a wonderful

for Alex Cross, Chris Collins, Noah

win against Crumlin on Saturday.

ALL OF YOUR DUNDRUM SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

BROAD HORIZONS: Rovers enjoy local football season to remember P30

JUNE 16, 2011

PRO EVO: Curley speaks of his golfing evolution P29

GazetteSPORT

An Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Cllr Lettie McCarthy, presents a Commemorative Plaque to the Stars of Erin GAA club

Stars the stars in DLRCOCO awards Glencullen club honoured for their high standards of community volunteerism by Cllr Lettie McCarthy STEPHEN FINDLATER dundrumsport@gazettegroup.com

STARS of Erin received one of the biggest honours in their history when they were one of three organisations honoured this week by the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown county council for their spirit of volunteerism.

At the annual Cathaoirleach’s awards, the Glencullen club was presented with the honour

by Cllr Lettie McCarthy before 50 assembled guests, for those who have given “outstanding service” to their community.

As a local resident, McCarthy has been able to see first-hand the great work being done at the club, one which caters for members from age 2 to 97.

Club chairman, Paudge McHugh, was on hand to accept the award. He explained to GazetteSport the level of volunteerism required for his club.

“We operate out of just a field; we’ve no clubhouse or anything like that so we work hard in the area. We run six kids’ teams as well – U-11, 9 and 8. hurling and football – as well as an adult side.

“It’s hard work in the area when you have the likes of Olaf’s, Ballinteer St John’s and Kilmacud.

“They all have big facilities but we are in the process of developing facilities. We have planning permission for the clubhouse but getting funding at the moment is not great.

“But we have had some success, managing to win the Junior B championship in Dublin and then came second in our league last year.”

Speaking at the awards night,Cllr McCarthy said that these awards were of particular significance “given that 2011 is the designated European Year of Volunteering.”

Cllr McCarthy highlighted the impact of these groups on the life of local communities. “Directly and indirectly these groups provide social and

economic development at a local, national and international level,” she said.

Addressing the volunteers in the Council Chamber, Cllr McCarthy referred to a recent speech delivered by President Mary MacAleese, in which she said that volunteering “serves to remind us that, on our island, there is a veritable army of volunteers who embody that essential part of our culture and heritage, where we look out for, and look after, one another.

“Never underestimate the relevance and value of what you do, and please keep on doing it.”

The award follows a week after club member Paddy Walsh won the National Award to Volunteers in Irish Sport (Life Time Award) at a recent gathering in the Aviva Stadium.

Walsh, currently 97, has been involved with Stars of Erin GAA for over 60 years and has been the club’s representative on the Dublin Junior Board, club referee and as co-manager and selector for the adult teams.