Dundrum Gazet te FREE
October 25, 2012 Find us on
• Stillorgan Dundrum • Churchtown • Nutgrove • Rathfarnham • Ballinteer • Sandyford • Leopardstown • Terenure Month XX, 2012
INSIDE: Happy to help celebrate the opening of new Dealz store in Dundrum Village Centre P10
Soccer:
Broadford get by Confey task in LSL Senior 1A Page 30
Football:
Kilmacud into another SFC title decider Page 31 and 32
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES.......................6 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................27
funding: Local groups to benefit from €26,440 Community Grants Scheme P2
Hogan’s council reforms decried
Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
LOCAL Government reforms announced last week by Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan have been criticised by a majority of councillors in the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown (DLR) area. The reforms include a new property tax, which councils will set to collect money for services in their
regions. Also announced was the general reduction in the number of local authorities, the abolition of town councils and an increase in councillors for the Dublin region. DLR is to get 12 additional councilors, which will bring the overall number from 28 to 40, and many councillors agree that this will be too many. Full Story on Page 3 and 4
High notes: Singing the praises of Loreto College’s new home MEMBERS of the school choir
certainly hit all the right notes as they helped to celebrate the official opening of Loreto College, Foxrock’s new building, recently. Former principal Nuala Mannion, who retired last year, was
invited back as guest of honour for the big day, as she opened the state-of-the-art new building, which features a wealth of new facilities and features – something to sing about, indeed. See Gallery on Page 6
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dublin GAZETTe newspapers i n f o r m at i o n
council Funds to help 27 organisations
Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 - 6010240 Dublin Gazette Newspapers publish eight weekly quality free titles, covering the greater Dublin area from Swords to Dun Laoghaire
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The council agreed that a diverse range of the county’s groups and organisations should benefit from the Community Grants Scheme
Community groups set for a share of €26,440 Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com
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THERE was good news for local dance, drama, sports and other community groups last week when it was announced that 27 organisations across the county are to receive funding under Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s (DLRCC) Community Grants Scheme. At a recent DLRCC meeting, the allocation of community grant funding was decided by the council’s Community Development Department. The Community Grants Scheme was set up to assist local groups
Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com
by offering financial assistance for their community-based projects. Among this year’s recipients was St John of God’s Carmona Services, based in Glenageary, which is a day and residential service that supports children and adults with intellectual disabilities. A DLRCC community grant of €1,300 was awarded to support its
arts classes. Carmona was recently the source of a heated debate in the Dail, after it was forced to close down a portion of its overnight respite services in the Angel’s Quest facility, due to HSE cutbacks. Some of the grants awarded were tailored to help set up new groups as well as the running costs of more established clubs, while others assist with the expense of special upcoming events. A total of €26,438.81 has now been earmarked for community grants by the council to help a diverse range of local groups, including the disabled, library clubs,
writing groups, bowling clubs and a men’s group. Some of the community groups which received funding were in the area of dance. Dance Theatre of Ireland was given €1,762, and Club Chualann Monthly Ceili Dance, €500. Other funding went to musical causes, such as the Frascati Singers Christmas Concert, who received €650, while the Ballinteer Male Voice Choir got €600. Environmental initiatives were also rewarded, with The Gallops Residents’ Association getting €4,300. Drama groups that benefited included Dalkey Players,
with €2,191 and Dundrum One Act Festival, who got €650. Two retirement groups – the Irish Senior Citizens Parliament and Dun Laoghaire Active Retirement Association – got €500 and €2,000 respectively, and minority group, Southside Travellers, received €500. Now in its second year, the Underground Cinema Film Festival was awarded €1,300 by the council, and some gender-specific groups, such as Seantain na Fir men’s shed, got a startup grant of €800, while Shanganagh Women’s Group got an arts grant of €400.
Inaugural awards celebrate volunteers’ work Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com
THE inaugural Valuing Volunteers Awards were held in the Stillorgan Park Hotel last week, with An Cathaoirleach, Councillor Tom Joyce (FG), presiding. The awards are run by Dun
Laoghaire-Rathdown Volunteer Centre, in recognition of charities and community groups and all the voluntary work they do in the community. The three winners on the night were the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Making Connections and the Rosemount Fam-
ily Resource Centre. Presenting the awards, Cllr Joyce said: “Volunteers are a scarce but wonderful resource in society, and they need to be looked after and valued. “I would like to congratulate Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Volunteer Centre for introducing
this new award. “Not only are they highlighting the huge contribution that volunteers make in the community, but they are also highlighting the importance of looking after, valuing and giving due recognition to volunteers,” he said.
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courts
council: concern over use of levy
Property tax plan divides opinion Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com
D I S AG R E E M E N T S arose at a Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council (DLRCC) meeting about the form and implementation of a proposed new property tax in the county due to be rolled out early next year. The new property taxes will be part of an overall reform of local government announced last week by the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan. Minister Hogan outlined that property taxes were to be set by individual councils in the future for the provision of services in that region. Councillors expressed their concerns about
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‘Councillors expressed their concerns about using taxes on property to fund services’ --------------------------
using taxes on property to fund services, and how this would give advantage to more built-up areas, while also recognising that DLR would be one of those privileged areas under such a scheme. An Leas Cathaoirleach, Councillor Stephen Fitzpatrick (Lab) said: “In Britain, €50 million is collected by local authorities. “It’s a lot more straightforward and transparent for residents to see the
money they’re paying in taxes go directly to their local authority for the provision of services.” Fellow Labour councillor Niamh Bhreathnach, agreed with the idea of funding services with property taxes. In contrast, Cllr Gerry Horkan (FF) was not in favour of a site valuation tax, saying it would penalise people for owning land, and that such a system favoured urban areas. Cllr Melissa Halpin of People Before Profit said that Ireland should not follow the British example of council taxation, as it produced unequal service provision among rich and poor areas and had “created a huge disparity in conditions in some areas”.
Armed robbery at bookies
What truly matters: Local writer makes Powers Whiskey anthology Pictured at the launch of Celebrating What Truly Matters Powers Irish Whiskey Short Story Collection, is Frank McCaughey from Monkstown, whose story was selected for the book (from over 4,000 submitted). Frank is pictured with author Sheila O’Flanagan, ambassador of the project, who launched the book in Finnegans in Dalkey last week. All proceeds from the sale of the book go to the Irish Hospice Foundation, which hope to make €30,000 from sales of the anthology. Frank’s story is entitled This and is one of 26 that are featured in the second volume of the book.
A MAN appeared in the Criminal Courts of Justice on October 19 following an armed robbery of a bookmakers in Rathfarnham. At around 2.30pm on October 18, a masked man entered a bookmakers, armed with a firearm, and demanded cash from the cashiers. He made his escape, but was apprehended a short distance from the premises. The alleged incident took place in The Track Bookmakers, Whitchurch in Rathfarnham. The firearm and €2,000 in cash were recovered and the man was taken to Rathfarnham Garda station where he was held under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act.
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Got a story? Call our news team on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com
community Initiative could become an annual event
New health fair launched at council concourse Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com
A NEW community health fair, organised by the HSE, was launched recently by journalist John Waters at the concourse of the county council
Enterprisenews
Need advice on how to get going? Are you thinking of starting a business or are you already in business and looking towards expanding? The County Enterprise Board can help you! Every week we hold Business Advice sessions where you can meet an experienced Business Advisor who will be able to give you information about all of the services the Enterprise Board can provide and will be able to point you in the right direction so that you can avail of the supports which are available to you. The Enterprise Board has four key support areas – Training, Mentoring, Networking and – in qualifying cases – Funding. These are available to all small businesses in the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown area. The Business Advice sessions are the best way to learn about how best you can be helped in your business. The Enterprise Boards are funded by the Dept. of Enterprise, Jobs & Innovation and there is no cost to anyone attending these meetings. So how to get involved? It’s easy – all you have to do is call us on (01) 494 8400 or email: info@ dlrceb.ie . You can also find out about all of our activities and current courses and network activity on our website – www.dlrceb.ie . The Enterprise Board has a number of publications which might be helpful to you – Business Start Up, Social Media for Business, Business Marketing, Managing Business Finances and Your Business & the Law. If you would like a copy of all or any of these – free of charge – please contact us on the above phone number or email address.
building on Marine Road in Dun Laoghaire. The Dun Laoghaire Health Fair was organised as part of this year’s Social Inclusion Week to raise awareness of health issues, services and the promotion of good health
standards in the community. The organisers hope the health fair will become an annual event, as it offered an opportunity for locals to engage with health professionals and access information on the wide
range of health services and community support schemes available. A selection of HSE community services’ staff and community groups and agencies were on hand to offer advice and information.
Representatives included the local Primary Health Care teams, Southside Partnership, Southside TravellerAction Group, Dun LaoghaireRathdown Sports Partnership, and other specialised organisations.
High note: Music at St Tiernan’s SHANE Alger was happy to strum along as Kanokwan Thaveetham hit some sweet notes during the recent grand final of St Tiernan’s Community School talent show. With 11 acts through to the final, the judges – Dr Martin O’Leary, composer and lecturer in NUI Maynooth; Martina Devlin, author and award-winning journalist, and Emma McNamara, RTE presenter and journalist – faced a tough challenge to select an overall winner. See Full Gallery Next Week
politics: disapproval for increase in representatives
Councillors criticise local government reforms
Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com
A MAJORIT Y of local politicians in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) have criticised Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan’s local Government reforms, which will see councils set their own property tax for services and increase the number of councillors for Dublin. The new reforms also outlined a reduction in the number of local authorities, from 114 to 31, the abolition of town councils, and an increase in DLRCC councillors,
from 28 to 40. Councillor Gerry Horkan (FF) responded to the minister’s announcement by saying: “28 [councillors] is sufficient for DLR, and to have 40 councillors would create a disproportionate imbalance in the county. “[The Government] already took the water and planning functions away from councils, so why would we need 40 councillors? “There is no evidence of reform [in the report] for the council in policing, education and business, and renaming the county manager ‘chief executive’ [instead] doesn’t achieve anything.
“If wards are going to change, and we are either going to lose or gain territory, that should be made clear to us next year in March,” said Cllr Horkan. He went on to criticise the proposed property tax collections for each area’s services budget, and said: “As to the property tax, I don’t know how places like Donegal, with an enormous road structure but very few properties, will manage.” On the other side of the political spectrum, Cllr Patricia Stewart (FG) welcomed the new reforms, and said: “I welcome the efficiencies in the reduction of duplica-
tion of representation – it will be more streamlined and efficient. I am also pleased to see that local councillors can expect greater autonomy in the raising of local taxes.” Another Fine Gael councillor, Barry Saul, objected to the increase in councillors for the county, and said that 28 were more than enough for the region, while fellow Fine Gael councillor John Bailey called the decision: “a good day for local democracy”. Of the new property tax collection system for each council, People Before Profit councillor Melisa Halpin said: “Some areas, such as Dun
Laoghaire-Rathdown, which is one of the more affluent areas in the country, could afford decent services and amenities, but an area that is more disadvantaged would find itself without any swimming pool or short of emergency services in the case of flooding, for example.” Cllr Lettie McCarthy (Lab) questioned the decision to increase the number of councillors. “Is it wise to have an extra 12 councillors? We haven’t much resources, and it could prove to be ineffective. The public, too, won’t welcome more councillors in the Dublin area,” she said.
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School principal Bernadette Prendiville
Harpist Helen TaffeRichardson
Deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor (FG)
The opening was a snip for Nuala Mannion
Members of the choir, who helped the evening to hit some high notes with guests. Pictures: Geraldine Woods
Mr and Mrs O’Brien, parents of Part of the welcoming guard of honour
Principal Prendiville
schools: LORETO COLLEGE OPENS SUPERB FACILITY
Chalking up a great opening
F
ORMER principal Nuala Mannion, who retired last year, was given a warm welcome back to Loreto College, Foxrock, when she officially opened the school’s new building. Principal Bernadette Prendiville, and deputy principal Brid Daly, joined the guest of honour to celebrate the opening ceremony, which was attended by many parents, teachers and locals, following a school Mass in Foxrock Church.
The new, light-filled and spacious building has a wealth of facilities and features, including two new art rooms, a new library with a research and resource area, and a large oratory, among others, all of which were highlypraised by everyone. Ms Mannion summed up the state-of-the-art’s building as a reflection of how the the spirit of development is essential for the girls.
25 October 2012 DUNDRUM Gazette 7
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FastNews
enterprise €450m for three-year plan
Credit scheme for small businesses is launched
New 25m pool set to make a splash in Loughlinstown
Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com
THE long-awaited new 25m pool in Loughlinstown Leisure Centre is due to open to the public this November. The six-lane swimming pool cost Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport €6.8 million, and will be managed by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Leisure Centre (DLRLS). Loughlinstown has been without a pool for 29 years. According to DLRLS, the pool will service the community in the council administrative areas, which include Dun Laoghaire, Loughlinstown and Ballybrack.
Councillor Neale Richmond (FG): “Essential we support new business”
A NEW credit guarantee scheme to make it easier for small businesses to borrow money was launched by Richard Bruton, the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation last week as part of the Government’s Action Plan for Jobs – a strategy to create an additional 100,000 jobs by 2016. The new plan, which was published last February, includes 270 measures to help clear the way for small businesses to access credit. Minister Bruton said that the Credit Guarantee Scheme is expected to provide an extra €150 million in lending for small business per year over the next three years, with a 75% State guarantee to banks for losses on loans to qualifying companies. The Minister added that for every €150 million of additional lending, the scheme is expected to benefit more than 1,800 businesses and create more than 1,300 jobs. He said: “Access to credit remains a key issue for many businesses,
and if we are to see the growth and jobs we need, the Government must act to fill gaps where specific market failures exist.” Local politician councillor Neale Richmond (FG) who was at the launch of the Credit Guarantee Scheme, said: “Our jobs market is in a transitional phase where we are moving [on] from the failed, old economy of the past [and] are moving to a more sustainable situation where the focus is on innovation, enterprise and exports. “It is essential, therefore, that we have the systems in place to support new business, especially those in sectors with whom banking institutions may not be familiar.” However, there was some dissension from the Irish Exporters Association (IEA) about the scheme, because of the set-up costs involved and limitations on the type of loans that the guarantee covers. IEA chief executive John Whelan called the scheme: “a very disappointing response to one of the most pressing issues for the export industry”.
Charity shop to help women’s aid Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com
A NEW charity shop dedicated to Women’s Aid Services opened its doors to the public in Dundrum village this week. The Dundrum Village Charity Shop, located at 14 Main Street, had its grand opening on October 23. Many of the clothes on offer are designer brands
for both women and men, and there is also a good selection of books, bags and shoes, all at low prices. All proceeds from sales in the shop will go to the Women’s Aid services, which help women experiencing domestic violence. Their National Freephone Helpline is 1800 341 900; for further information, see www. womensaid.ie.
25 October 2012 DUNDRUM Gazette 9
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Orla and Harry Coleman
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Luca and Michelle Alonzi
Model Rozanna Purcell cuts the ribbon, with help from Johnny Brennan, store manager, and Brendan Doyle, business manager, Dealz Ireland
Management and staff celebrate the opening of the store
Nimah O’Rourke with Katie Sweeney and Make a Wish Foundation fundraising officer, Dermot Hickey
Manager Johnny Brennan and assistant store manager Marcia Murphy with Kathleen Priestley – Eimear and Claire Boylan
the store’s first customer
retail: 30 JOBS CREATED AT NEW DUNDRUM STORE
New Dealz bring shoppers flocking
T
OP model Rozanna Purcell was on hand to help officially open the new Dealz store in Dundrum recently, and which is located at Dundrum Village Centre. She added a dash of glamour to an already exciting day, with the store’s opening bringing to 19 the number of stores in the chain.
The new Dealz store has created 30 jobs in the Dundrum area, with shoppers welcoming the arrival of another smartly presented and well-stocked store in the region. With almost 6,000 sq ft of retail space, Dealz has a wide range of branded products and goods, and also supports many Irish-made products.
25 October 2012 Gazette 11
schools P14
dublinlife
Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools
business P16
Gazette
diary P12
scary words: funtime at the ark, temple bar
Tall tales and spellbinding stories for kids of all ages THE children’s cultural centre, The Ark, in Temple Bar, is holding interactive book experiences every weekend in November called Telling Tall and Tiny Tales. There will be stories, activities and fun, as well as original artwork from well-known children’s books on display. Children can learn how to make up their own stories by choosing any one
of a selection of workshops on offer, and there will also be Halloweenthemed storytelling at the Ark every day throughout the mid-term break, with ghost stories to read. The workshops and special events start on Wednesday, October 31, with a Halloween special storytelling event with Niall de Burca. Children are encouraged to come dressed up
in their spookiest Halloween costumes. On the same day, at the National Gallery of Ireland, a Skulduggery Pleasant Extravanza takes place, where author of the acclaimed series, Derek Landy, its illustrator, Tom Percival, and editor Nick Lake will talk about the Skulduggery Pleasant books. Children are asked to come along as one of the
Skulduggery characters. In November, there are gigantic illustration workshops with Niamh Sharkey on November 3 at the Ark and, on November 9 and 16, there will be workshops for toddlers with Kate Wilson. On November 10 and 17, Jole Bortoli will host Plant a Book workshops, and on November 24 PJ Lynch is giving workshops for budding illustrators.
Niall de Burca will host the spookiest Halloween storytelling event
Gazette
12 Gazette 25 October 2012
dublinlife
diary
Travel fun day raises €35,000
THE inaugural Travel Trade Fun Day surpassed its fundraising target recently, when it successfully raised a massive €35,000 for Pieta House and the Irish Cancer Society. The fun day, which took place last month in the ALSAA Sports Club in Dublin Airport, was the first of its kind in Ireland and saw over 400 people attend. The Travel Trade Fun Day committee includes
Blue Insurances, Etihad Airways, Travelport, Royal Caribbean, Sunway and United Airlines, who presented the charities with a cheque on Thursday, October 11. Each charity received €17,500. Commenting on the event, the Travel Trade Fun Day committee said: “We would like to thank everyone in the travel trade who supported us in hosting this inaugural event. We are very grateful for all of the donations
Advertise with the G a z e tt e c a l l 6 0 1 0 2 4 0
received, big and small, and we hope the funds raised go a long way in helping both of these worthwhile charities.”
Sports classes kick off for little champs AWARD-winning ClapHandies, which runs play and developmental classes for babies and toddlers, has joined forces with exercise experts Fit For Life to provide an exciting sport and fitness experi-
Local
Matters
ence for children aged three to eight in venues across the city. PlayFit classes are designed to develop the crucial basic movement skills, building the key elements of physical fitness endurance, strength and flexibility. The earlier these skills are learned, the more likely children are to develop an active lifestyle and love of sport. Mark Sweeny of Fit for Life says: “If a child does not learn how to run, jump and kick a ball adequately
The two cheques of €17,500 each were presented to Pieta House and the Irish Cancer Society after a fund-raising day organised by the travel trade
at an early age, their skill levels soon fail to match those of their peers, and they increasingly participate in sports and physical activity less.”
Play-Fit classes will start in October in a number of locations across Dublin before being rolled out to 10 new venues in January
2013. For further information, see www.playfit.ie.
Dublin taxi drivers voted fifth friendliest in the world HAILING a taxi this week could put more of a smile on your face than usual after the Diary found out that Dublin taxis have been ranked fifth in the world for their friendliness. The question of our Irish taxi drivers, “Are you bus y tonight?” clearly enhances the Irish charm, with Dublin drivers receiving 5% of the overall vote, in a survey compiled by Hotels. com. London topped the poll for the fifth consecutive year as the best cabs in the world, with Dublin sitting in 13th place, while New York were named as being the most available. Hugh Cregan, director of Transport Investment and Taxi Regulation, commented: “It’s great to see that Dublin’s taxi drivers continue to make such a good impression on visitors to our country and I congratulate them on that. “The taxi industr y nationwide is a vital part of our public-transport network, and good customer service benefits everyone.”
25 October 2012 Gazette 13
Gazette
14 Gazette 25 October 2012
dublinlife
schoolLife
Get involved with the Gazette As part of the relaunch of the Dublin Gazette Newspapers, we are reaching out to all the schools in our catchment areas to become a closer part of our community than ever before. Schools are the beating hearts of communities – one of the last places around which a community can gather. We are calling on budding writers and photographers from all of our schools to help fill the pages. In order to encourage the next generation of journalists and snappers to get involved, we are partnering with Harvey Norman to present the Dublin Gazette Newspapers Cub Reporter and Cub Photographer of the Year awards. For further details, contact me, Rob Heigh, news editor at rheigh@gazettegroup.com, or telephone me at 01 601 0240.
opinion: new junior cycle approach is to be welcomed
A refreshing change of direction mary slator
Colaiste Bride, Presentation School, Clondalkin
AS A student who has just recently completed my Junior Cycle of postprimary school, and who was also one of the thousands of students to be the last to take the Junior Cert exams, I, myself, was deeply interested in the fate of the next Junior Cycle nationwide. R ua iri Quinn, the Minister for Education, believes that if the whole
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‘This new programme offers teachers and students alike a flexible approach to learning and teaching’
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programme was changed, there would be a lessened likelihood of pressurised students dropping out of school at such a young age, because of the stress that comes with the exams.
Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn examining a project at the annual BT Young Scientist competition. There are hopes that the revised Junior Cycle at schools will see an improvement in academic results nationwide
The majority of settings that provided the JCSP are secondary schools, but it is also available in numerous other facilities,
such as special schools, children detention schools, Traveller training centres, and also Youth Encounter Projects.
I believe that Ruairi Quinn is worried, due to the fact that, countrywide, literacy levels have declined dramatically. This new programme offers teachers and students alike a flexible approach to learning and teaching, instead of a traditional, subject-based curriculum to follow. I’ve been told that the majority of the work to be done for the new programme is quite a lot of hands-on and group work. This, personally, sounds like a refreshing development in Irish education. The two major purposes of this programme statement are: to outline the nature and content of the JCSP, and to present examples of good practice changing for the JCSP. This new programme is completely different from the previous Junior Cert programme, as a certain percentage of your overall grade can be achieved through regular class tests, unlike just having exams at the end of three years in your junior cycle. As the quality of education and levels of basic literacy has faltered, there is only hope that the Minister for Education’s new techniques will turn the whole thing around and bring a brighter, more intelligent Ireland.
25 October 2012 Gazette 15
Gazette
schools talks: local issues
schoolLife
Students praise DLR Comhairle charlotte kennedy St Raphaela’s Secondary School, Stillorgan
S T R A P H A E L A’ S Secondary School in Stillorgan, along with other local schools, has taken part in Comhairle na nOg in [the] Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown [region]. The Comhairle, which can have up to two representatives per school or youth club, is a place
where discussions and solutions to problems are made for young people, by young people. This year, the focus of the Comhairle is on the Lost Years – the years between childhood and being an adult (basically, us moody teenagers). Many things are being discussed in this topic, for instance, voting at 16, and the fact that there are no student fares on public transport.
Fingal fifth years get a lot out of great Siemens talk
erica o’sullivan Fifth Year, Fingal Community College
Examining the Comhairle na nOg report
A simpler way to explain the Comhairle is by its slogan: Young Voices, Local Issues. Charlotte Kennedy, a furth year student at St Raphaela’s, said: “I had
never heard of the Comhairle before, but it was something I was immediately drawn to, as I love to argue and wanted to make my voice heard. “T he DLR Com-
hairle is a great place to make a change for young people. I have loved my experience so far, and can’t wait to see what the rest of the year brings.”
SIEMENS Diagnostics came to Fingal Community College last week and students in Fifth Year LCVP were treated to a talk by Michael Farrell, of Siemens, as part of [the] Enterprise Education [initiative]. He engaged the fifth years in a very interesting talk on the production of highquality and accurate products for the medical industry.
The students were especially impressed by a short film that brought the manufacturing process to life. All members of LCVP gained an insight into enterprise in the Swords area, learning that Siemens employs 300 people in the town.
Opportunity The fifth years were delighted with the opportunity to learn more about this local industry, and look forward to working with Siemens later in the year.
GAZETTE
16 GAZETTE 25 October 2012
DUBLINLIFE
Q&A
BUSINESS
Supported by AIB
Financial Planning – Part 3 Continued from last week
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How long have you been in business? We formed our company in early 2009
taken hold when we started our company, we never got too big for our boots and are constantly trying new angles and avenues in search of new business.
What makes your business successful? I believe the success of our company can be directly attributed to the people working within our company. They’re hard-working, innovative and hands-on dedicated staff with one common goal: a successful company with satisfied customers! What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors? Some of our competitors are part of large multinational companies, supplying products and services all over Europe. We are a much smaller homegrown company, dealing with people on the ground locally and in a manner that is much easier for them to understand. Our customers find us much more approachable because of this. How has the recession impacted your business? We, like everyone else have taken a serious blow as a result of the economic downturn. Sales are down, confidence is down but we are still here, fighting. What have you changed about your business to combat the effects of the recession? We are constantly changing and evolving as a result of the recession, but because the recession had already
What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business? There is a lot of talk at the moment about the residential property tax, which is going to be introduced at some stage in the near future. Our products and systems are aimed at making homes and businesses more energy-efficient, so I would like to see homes and businesses that are more energy-efficient paying less tax. This would provide an incentive to carry out this type of work, and would create more business and employment, benefiting all involved. How do you use social media (Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn, etc) to help your business? We have a Facebook-like page which we use to keep people up to date with our special offers, as well as changes within the industry. We also upload project photos and details to show people what can be achieved with our products. What is your ambition for the business? To survive the current economic turmoil first and foremost, but to also see our company grow into a successful, proud business with satisfied clients.
• Having an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses. • Paying off any personal loans, credit-card debt, overdrafts, store cards, hire purchase, leases or other debts. • Building up short-term savings. • Protecting your most valuable asset – your income – in case you are unable to earn money for any reason. • Protecting yourself (and, if relevant, your partner) with life cover. • Starting a pension plan. • Buying a home. • Saving for major purchases. • Planning for education fees. • Building up your personal investments. To this, I suppose we could add planning for longterm care. Bear in mind the following principles when deciding what your financial priorities should be: 1. For most people, their greatest asset is their income. Under the circumstances, you don’t want to risk it, and you don’t want to waste it. There are all sorts of inexpensive insurance policies designed to protect your income.
2. Personal debt, by which I mean everything from store cards to mortgages, will be the biggest drain on your income. If you’ve borrowed money, then you should make it a priority to repay your loans as quickly as possible. 3. It’s vital to have a safety net or emergency fund to deal with those trials and extra expenses that life often throws our way. Also, you want to make as big a return as possible from your investments. 4. If you’ve got a good, secure income, it doesn’t actually matter what other assets you possess. Emotionally, it’s nice to have the security of owning your own home. But an investment that is just as good and maybe better is a really decent pension plan. 5. Know thyself. There’s no point in setting financial objectives that you’re going to find impossible to attain. Your financial objectives may involve modest changes to your behaviour, but they shouldn’t require a complete change in your personality. 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
SEARCH: BEST MANAGED COMPANIES COMPETITION
Dublin businesses go on to top Deloitte contest
NATALIE BURKE
EIGHTEEN Dublinbased companies have been shortlisted to be among Ireland’s Best Managed Companies, according to a recent announcement by Deloitte, the business advisory firm. Now in its fifth year, the Best Managed Companies Awards recognise Irish companies across the country that are operating at the highest levels of business performance. Local companies through to the second phase of the competition include Dublin 15 companies, Blue Insurances Limited, NPP Group Limited, and Java Republic Roasting Company, the Now Factory in Sandy-
ford, and Noonan, located in Swords. For the next stage of the competition, the shortlisted companies will demonstrate to a judging panel how their organisations are meeting their strategic objectives and adding value to their business. The companies will work closely with coaches from Deloitte and Irish Life Corporate Business and will receive customised feedback, benefiting from the business advice and expertise. Kevin Sheehan, a partner at Deloitte, said it is “extremely positive” that the competition has such strong contenders this year. He said: “Feedback we have received from previous winners is that they
Judging panel members David Harney, chief executive, Irish Life Corporate Business; Siobhan McAleer, head of strategic partnerships, Irish Management Institute and Kevin Sheehan, partner, Deloitte
have found this process to be extremely beneficial and practical in relation to their company’s future strategy and it is a considerable benefit of participating in the programme.” The awards are open to companies from all 32 counties of the island of Ireland. It is the only awards programme that consid-
ers a business performance from every perspective, not just financial. The companies that have been awarded the Deloitte Best Managed Company accolade, to date, have total revenues of more than €10 billion, and employ more than 24,000 people. The winners of this year’s awards will be announced next March.
25 October 2012 Gazette 17
MOTORS P22
asdfsdaf P27 TRAVEl P24
OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week
Gazette
MUSIC P19
Pets dog’s trust dog of the week
Witching hour can be a lot of fun for all ages
halloween: enjoy ghoulish action with spooky tours, parades and crafts
City fun will be a scream LAURA WEBB
GETTING spooky this Halloween? Are you attending one of the attractions around the city this All Hollow’s Eve? Out & About has trawled through the pumpkins and cobwebs to find out what’s on this Halloween mid-term. From ghostly tours to spooky arts and craft classes, from a horror farm to parades of ghouls, Dublin and its surroundings have every scare covered. Samhain 2012 is taking place at Marlay Park on Sunday, October 28. Each year, families flock to the park where, for one night only, it comes alive with freaky fog, ghastly spiders, skeletons, creepy pumpkins, chilling witches and demons. Residents are invited to walk in the Haunted Forest in their scariest cos-
tumes. This is a free event for those with wristbands which will be distributed on Saturday, October 27, at CoCo Market in Marlay Park from 10am to 4pm and on Sunday, October 28, from 10am until 3pm behind Marlay House. The Samhain 2012 sessions will take place that Sunday, October 28, at 3.30pm, 4.30pm, 5.30pm, 6.30pm and 7.30pm. Check out www.dlrevents.ie. Hidden Dublin Walks presents the Halloween Northside Ghost Walk every Friday and Saturday until November 1 from 8pm to 10pm. According to the organisers, Dublin is one of the most haunted cities in the world and these walks take visitors through one of the oldest parts of Dublin once know as Oxmanstown. Participants will have the chance to see
sites such as Saint Mary’s Abbey, one of the most powerful monastic settlements in Ireland in medieval times, now just a small ruin down an alleyway, and hear the story of Lord Norbury, the infamous and sadistic hanging judge who presided over the trial of Robert Emmet. Hated in life, in death he returns to continue his reign of terror, so the story goes. You will also hear tell of the mummies of Saint Michan’s Church, surely the most macabre tourist attraction in Ireland, and a major inspiration to the young Bram Stoker, native of Clontarf and author of Dracula. Tickets cost €13. Check out www.hiddenwalks.com. Threshold, the national housing charity, is hosting a Wacky Witches and Wizards Walk on Sunday, October 28, in Tibradden, South County Dublin. Start-
ing at 5pm, this three-hour walk is suitable for adults and children. Everyone is being asked to dress up and there will be prizes for the most whimsical wizard and wackiest witch among others. Registration is €50 for one adult and up to three children. Check out www.threshold.ie South Dublin County Council is celebrating Halloween on Wednesday, October 31 with a fun-filled spectacle for families in a safe environment. Over 200 young people from Tallaght and Clondalkin will create artistic pieces in arts and performance workshops to display on Halloween night from 5pm to 7pm. There will be a parade in Tallaght and a pageant in north Clondalkin with music, dance and games at both events. Continued on Page 23
Dublin Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dog’s Trust, Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity, to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. This week’s dog is Herbie, a 12-year-old crossbreed. This distinguished older gentleman adores his creature comforts and at this ripe age would love a home with a nice big soft bed to put his paws up and relax in. This independent little man is quite happy to potter around doing his own thing or in the company of other doggies and big kids. If you think you can give Herbie a loving home for his twilight years then contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. More information about their work can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie All dogs that are adopted from Dogs Trust are vet-checked, vaccinated, neutered and micro-chipped before being rehomed.
Gazette
18 Gazette 25 October 2012
OUT&ABOUT
MUSIC
FASTtunes
New night in Tallaght proves hotbed of fresh local talent Two new acts, Lora & Amy and Cash Is King, will be appearing at Brady’s Pub in Terenure next Friday, October 26 as the first showcase of new acts managed by Keith McLoughlin. Lora & Amy are a songwriting duo from Balbriggan and veterans of the Ballyfermot Rocks festival, while Cash Is King are a four-piece with members from Dublin, Wicklow and Kilkenny. McLoughlin is involved with community radio and promoting unsigned artists, and this event is an official launch night at the home of The Brady’s Sessions, which is a monthly singer/ songwriter night.
Allo Darlin’ - guitarist Paul Rains, drummer Michael Collins, bassist Bill Botting and singer Elizabeth Morris
MUSIC REVIEW: pop perfection from london-based four-piece
Allo, allo, allo... AN INVESTIGATION of the current state of the musical firmament would tend to point t ow a r d a c o m p l e t e dearth of new ideas and fresh talent. Some would say we’ve heard it all before. Anyone who has listened to the Jake Bugg album would certainly agree. T i m e s l i ke t h e s e require ear bleach and a sense of perspective... and then, you hear a band who take all the elements that you love from all the bands you adore, and you really don’t mind a bit of nostalgia-tinged tunesmithery. Allo Darlin’, a fourpiece based in London, released their second
ROB HEIGH rheigh@gazettegroup.com
album proper, Europe, earlier this year and, damn, if I’m not annoyed I didn’t know about it before, because it would have been the soundtrack to the summer. Led by former Tender Trap member, Elizabeth Morris, the band have released a number of top-notch EPs - including the brilliantly titled Henry Rollins Don’t Dance - and their eponomously titled debut
album in 2010, which was singled out as a record of the year by several cognoscenti of the scene. Written around Morris’ ukelele and guitar, the record holds your attention utterly from start to finish, the combination of the classic tropes of jangle pop with lashings of ginger-beer flavoured slide guitar lines and string sections on the side create something that simultaneously transports you back to a more innocent and shinier time while being completely contemporary and excellent. Taking the shimmering girl guitar pop of the likes of BMX Bandits, the album contains 10
perfectly crafted songs that are infused with a lyrical wit and mastery of harmony and melody. Imagine if you will the best moments of the likes of The Magnetic Fields, Sufjan Stephens, The Vaselines, The Pipettes and Teenage Fanclub and you are someway close to what Allo Darlin’ are capable of, but even those comparisons are faint praise. The songs, from bubbly and wry opener Neil Armstrong to bittersweet closer My Sweet Friend, are uniformly straightfor ward and emotionally genuine, while underpinned by the band’s clearly innate understanding of how to craft a pop classic.
You’re held enraptured listening to where Morris is going to take you next with her words, which are never anything less than beguiling. Going all Louis Walsh for a moment, she reminds me of a young Billy Bragg, when he wrote songs like New England, full of charm and hope and love and disappointment and everything else that great pop music needs to understand as essential. There’s nothing revolutionary here, except four individuals creating a record that everyone with a pulse and a love of good music ought to hear. Which, in this pop day and age, is pretty revolutionary.
25 October 2012 Gazette 19
GAZETTE
20 GAZETTE 25 October 2012
R1
OUT&ABOUT
STYLE
Marks & Spencer from €15
Accessorize €5.50
BEAUTY news
Spooky Halloween Makeup Tutorial
! s e m u t s o C C r e e py
e for n is a fun tim ee w lo al H s, d to little ki from Tesco From big kids witch’s outf it y k o o sp is th like €10 dressing up star ting from
LAURA WEBB
Marks & Spencer from €13
Seeing that it’s the season of dressing up, Gazette Style is dedicating this week’s section to all things spooky. Make-up Forever is sharing one of their best looks - The Ventriloquist Doll, which is easy to re-create and is suitable for adults and children.
Marks & Spencer from €15
HERE IS A STEP BY STEP GUIDE: Step One: Complexion Use pale foundation in Mat Velvet No.15 to whiten the face creating the base for the Zombie look. Seal your foundation with a white powder in Velvet Finish No.21.
Accessorize €6 Tesco from €10 Accessorize €5.50
Step Two: Eyes Use eyeliner in Aqua Black Liner to create shape and widen the eyes for a doll-like effect. Build up your eyeshadow colour into solid blocks to create the false doll look using colours in White Matte in No.00, Pink Matte in No.75, Purple Matte in No.92 and Black Matte in No.40. Recreate the lower lash line using your eyeliner about 1-2 cm lower than your natural bottom lash line and then fill in with white eyeshadow in No.00. Finally add faux lashes to the upper and lower lashes along the false eyeliner line, the more exaggerated the lashes the better the doll effect. Faux Top Lashes: No.110 Bottom Faux Lashes: No.150. Step 3: Eyebrows Draw in the eyebrows with the same product and extend out the end of the eyebrow using Aqua Black for a very false look.
Accessorize €15 Accessorize €12.50
Marks & Spencer from €13 Accessorize €5.50
Accessorize €6
Step 4: Cheeks Use a pink or red blush in circular motions to apply the colour in Pink Matte in No.75. Add Strass Diamonds to create a speckled diamante finish in Pink Diamonds No.18, Red Diamonds No.19, Black Diamonds No.23 using Due Glue. Step 5: Chin Using your eyeliner, lightly mark the corner of your mouth down to your chin then once it is straight, take the eyeliner and draw a line down. This creates the effect of the doll’s mouth enabling it to move up and down. Add depth to the false chin look using Sculpting Kit in No.3. Step 6: Lips Apply lipstick as normal using N31 Bright Pink Lipstick, use a darker lipliner to outline the lips in 12C Aqua Lip liner and finish with Diamond Powder No.09 on top for added effect and sparkle.
Marks & Spencer €3.25
All make up is available at Make-Up Forever, 38 Clarendon St, Dublin, 01 6799043.
25 October 2012 Gazette 21
Gazette
GAMING BYTES&PIECES
A dashing design
XBox 360 interface gets a subtle revamp
In the rapidly deteriorating battle for earth, this team of pumped-up super-soldiers are potentially just a few moves away from mission failure – and being turned into a pile of ashes – in the challenging multi-platform title, XCOM: Enemy Unknown
XCOM Enemy Unknown: strategy classic’s excellent update
Challenging, but a blast shane dillon
GAMERS and techheads have a busy couple of months ahead, as the predictable deluge of end-of-year goodies has begun. Indeed, there are some terrific gaming titles due out in the very near future, as the crucial Christmas wars start between all manner of steely-eyed games developers, with a Darwinian battle of survival ahead between several triple-A titles. It’s hard to think of a harsher battle for survival than the one found in the wonderful multi-platform title, XCOM: Enemy Unknown, which was released very recently.
shane dillon sdillon@gazettegroup.com
It’s a reboot of a fondlyremembered (and deeply challenging) old strategy game from 1994. Here, aliens have started invading, with Earth belatedly waking up to the everincreasing threat of distinctly hostile foes. So, it’s time for a secret organisation to organise a crack team of elite soldiers with state-of-the-art secret weapons at a revolutionary base ... Only to watch them
BYTES&PIECES a starkly stylish work of beauty flies onto psn
die swiftly, and messily, at a variety of locations around the world, as this is a strategy title that demands brains a lot more than brawn. One wrong move; one step too far; one foolish oversight of a seemingly harmless alien out on the battlefield – which ranges from train stations to garage forecourts – can instantly turn the tide of battle, seeing not just one soldier, but your entire squad swiftly wiped out. Horribly. Assuming they survive the mission to hand, your soldiers can level up, gaining new abilities and increasing importance – all of which will make you curse your bad luck, and
miss their specialist skills, if they come a cropper a few missions later ... Wonderfully detailed presentation, and lots of gameplay flourishes (ranging from base expansion to research), add to the wide-ranging depth and fun of the title. The main gameplay is also pretty interesting, as you and the aliens take turns to position and attack with troops. Repeat such moves, until someone – or something – has won the mission, with great rewards to be claimed by the humans, or bitter regret if things don’t go so well. And if you mess up, entire countries begin to
SONY have a very creative title available now via PSN, in the stylish form of The Unfinished Swan. Developed by Giant Sparrow, this visually striking title is something of a melancholy treat. Starting with a blank canvas, the world is revealed by liberally splashing black paint around, with the paint’s splatters and tracks giving form and depth. More colours, and gameplay mechanics, eventually come into play through its brief life. As its name suggests, although it’s stark and not very long, this is a beautiful title indeed.
go dark ... As someone who’s routinely saved the world before breakfast, I have to say that XCOM isn’t remotely an easy prospect, which is great, as this is a strategy game, after all – immersive, engaging and explosive in equal amounts, but still something where planning, and thinking five steps ahead, is key. While there are certainly bigger titles coming out in the next couple of weeks, and months, XCOM deserves to be a hit. It’s definitely challenging and unforgiving, but that only adds to its appeal, making the outof-this-world title a true star on the retail shelves.
MANY people may have already noticed that their 360’s dashboard looks a little different – that’s because an update is rolling out to millions of consoles around the world as I type, with all consoles expected to be upgraded to the new format within a two-week period or so. The new dash has a number of interesting features, such as its Internet Explorer functionality, the new XBox Music service (with a monthly fee), a merging and reorganisation of tabs, and so on – all within the nowfamiliar Metro tiled format. Perhaps most interestingly, you can now pin favourite content to the dash, to allow quicker access to favourite games, sites, and so on. There are plenty of changes that you can all Google to your heart’s content – or simply wait for your console to update itself, if it hasn’t already – with the move a welcome one for the console and entertainment hub.
digging the new stuff
Game-changing update finally hits Minecraft STICKING with the 360, and presenting about my 1,278th nod at Minecraft, if you’re one of the literally millions of people who’ve been burning up the internet with impatient questions about when the long-awaited Update 1.8.2 (AKA the Adventure update, mate) would arrive – relax. It’s here, and deserves the hype. Apart from offering lots of new content, its most keenly-awaited feature is the new Creative mode, placing flight – and infinite blocks – at your blocky fingertips. There’s never been a better time to start building a giant gold statue of yourself, methinks ...
22 GAZETTE 25 October 2012
GAZETTE
& OUT ABOUT road
MOTORS
NOISE
Rob Kearney with the Audi A6 Avant S Line
Try out the 2013 Audi collection AUDI brand ambassador and rugby star Rob Kearney launched the Audi Future Now Sales event recently. Rob was on hand to launch the event as he received the keys to his stylish new Audi A6 Avant S Line. The Audi Future Now Sales event is effective until December 31st, and offers both existing and prospective customers the opportunity to enjoy the very latest award-winning 2013 Audi collection with significant savings of up to €8,344. Customers can now choose from a range of unique offers available on selected models across the range. From the Audi A1 right up to the exclusive A8, features such as xenon lights, automatic transmission and quattro four-wheel drive will now be available at unbeatable prices to those who place their order before the end of December. The Audi North Dublin event took place on October 20 and 21 where existing and potential Audi customers got the opportunity to experience the Future Now Audi range while families, adults and kids alike, were treated to a few hours of fun. A cooking demonstration was provided by Bon Appétit Dublin, where guests sampled the very best from Oliver Dunne’s award-winning Michelin Star Kitchen. Other events are being hosted around the country in Kilkenny, Galway and Offaly. Anyone that takes part in the Future Now test drive at these events will be in with a chance to win an Audi Sportscar Experience where customers will have the opportunity to experience the thrills of one of the world’s most exciting cars, the Audi R8 V10 Coupe, World Performance Car of the Year 2010. Customers wishing to experience Future Now and test drive the 2013 Audi collection can do so at their local Audi dealer. For information on a Future Now event in your area, visit www. audi.ie/futurenow
The Volkswagen Cross Polo in a shade of Magma Orange which makes it hard to ignore
VOLKSWAGEN: NEW BEEFED-UP CROSS POLO IS A REVELATION
Turning a ‘nice’ car into a mean machine
CORMAC CURTIS
I DON’T know who came up with the idea of bringing out a beefed-up version of the Volkswagen Cross Polo - but whoever it was, they should be given a corner office and made vice-president in charge of coolness. Seriously. W h o wo u l d h ave guessed that VW could take a car as downright ordinary as the Polo and make it so cool? To be fair, I’m pretty sure that the target audience probably don’t even use the word cool , and if they do they most likely spell it k-e-w-l or some such nonsense. B u t t h a t d o e s n ’t change the fact that the car has been given a huge new lease of life with
its latest incarnation. I spent a week with the Cross Polo recently and really had a blast. To be honest, an eyegrabbing motor like this always gives me a kick, but sometimes the highprofile can work against you a bit. L a t e o n e S u n d ay evening, I needed to get home quickly from the office, which involved some pretty erratic driving from yours truly. There may have been a few red lights broken, there is a chance I lost my patience with some other drivers, and it is quite possible that I may have even disregarded a speed limit or two. Despite my questionable driving that particular evening, I remain convinced that the gardai
who pulled me over only noticed me because I was driving the most orange car of all time. Yes, orange. VW refers to it as Magma Orange, and it’s so bright it doesn’t even need the metallic treatment. Did Xzibit bring this car to his paint shop for a little pimpin’? It wouldn’t surprise me if he did.
Styling Colour is one thing, but the styling of this car is absolutely spot one. Take a Polo, stretch it, pull it, and pump it up until it starts to bulge. Next, grab some very nifty alloys and give the body a few hunks of matt-finished dark grey plastic panels for a proper urban look and,
finally, give the interior some nice touches so the outside look is also carried inside. Not forgetting the silver anodised roof rails – there’s nothing I like more than when form and function are brought together with such a stylish approach. It all sounds so simple, but it’s amazing how many car manufacturers make a right pig’s ear of a model upgrade. The Cross Polo is also very well powered by a nicely tuned 70hp 1.2l diesel engine that’s matched to a solid 5-speed transmission. For the size of the car, 70hp might sound a little on the light side, but I found it to be a nice little mover, albeit not laden down with any extra
weight like the family or luggage. Like any car that stands out from the crowd, you do pay extra for the privilege. In this case, it’s a little over €17,000 but for the money, you do get plenty of kit, including: 17” Budapest alloys, climatic manual air conditioning, electric windows front and rear, ABS with brake assistant, ASR, EDL and EDTC, front fog lights sports front seats, silver anodised roof rails, bumpers in unique ‘cross’ design, silverpainted external mirrors, the ground clearance is increased by 15mm and it has hill-hold control. Volkswagen should be proud of this latest entry to the Polo family, and I hope we see plenty of them on the road.
25 October 2012 DUNDRUM gazette 23
Gazette
activities halloween: devilish plans are afoot for spine-tingling entertainment for all
Share the scares with lots of ghoulish and ghostly fun THERE is no excuse for anyone to be at home this Halloween thanks to the many events that are on offer. If your kids enjoy art, why not make some spooky arts and crafts with Imelda at Clondalkin Library on Tuesday, October 30, at 3pm? This is suitable for children aged eight to 12 and booking is essential. Contact Clondalkin Library at 01 459 3315. Most libraries have events happening throughout the Halloween mid-term to keep the kids happy, or to show them that making a costume themselves can be 10 times more fun than buying a readymade one in stores. So why not go into your nearest library to find out what’s on this Halloween? Elsewhere, the GAA Museum is being transformed into a spooky den,
with witches, ghouls and wizards there to welcome visitors. Activities include the Trick or Treat Trail, Terrifying Treats, Halloween Crafts, a Halloween Costume Competition and more. Visit www. crokepark.ie for further information. Even the animals at Dublin Zoo are getting involved this Halloween, but let’s hope all the visitors’ costumes don’t scare them too much. As part of the celebrations, the team at the zoo have organised the annual Boo at the Zoo which takes place this year on Sunday, October 28, and Wednesday, October 31, from 12 noon to 3pm on both days. Visitors will enjoy festive face painting, scary arts and crafts as well as spooky Halloween keeper talks. A monster disco will also take place on the lawn for young visitors to
Don’t look now: Drive In Movies at Halloween Horror Nights at Tattersalls Country House, in
Youngsters having fun at last year’s
Co Meath, may leave you feeling a wee bit uneasy in your car
Samhain event in Marlay Park, Dublin
enjoy. Meanwhile, the Haunted Spooktacular Horror Farm located deep in the Meath countryside is said to be Ireland’s biggest scare attraction and definitely worth the trek. This is the seventh year of an event that leaves people screaming with fright. With a devilish
plan to create 10 acres of fear, the scream team plan to push the boundaries this year even more with scenarios to produce new frights and claustrophobia. State-of-the-art special effects will also help to create an extreme scream experience. It combines live actors, special effects sounds
that help to create a fourdimensional attack on the senses. This will take place from Friday, October 26, to Wednesday, October 31, starting at 6.30pm and finishing at 10pm. Prebooking is essential and it’s priced at €25. Check out www.hiddendublinwalks.com. Finally, park your fear
at the door as Tattersalls Ireland presents Drive In Movies at Halloween Horror Nights featuring a haunted village with live actors, Halloween props, graveyards, spooky characters, and a spine-chilling selection of classic horror movies at Tattersalls Country House, Ratoath, Co Meath.
Enjoy a selection of Hollywood’s iconic horror movies while sitting in the comfort of your own car. Park in the best seats of the house for €20 per car, with two screenings per night to choose from. Tickets are available from the Tattersalls House on 01 886 4300, or visit www. tattersalls.ie/house.
Gazette
24 DUNDRUM gazette 25 October 2012
OUT&ABOUT
fast
TRAVEL
A bold and interesting menu at the Courtyard paul hosford
GETTING away from the hustle of Dublin can seem a lengthy enterprise. Planning, driving and organising for a night away isn’t exactly the most appealing to those with busy lifestyles. Luckily for me, the surrounds of Co Kildare are just on my doorstep and, 10 minutes drive from Clonsilla is the Courtyard Hotel in Leixlip. Conveniently located in the heart of Leixlip, the Courtyard is a beautifully laid-out hotel which features, unsurprisingly, a large courtyard which is used as an outdoor bar and, as was the case when we visited, is absolutely perfect for a warm day with friends. Sitting on the River Liffey, the area around the hotel is a great place to take a short walk. Hotel restaurants can often seem to go one of two ways. Either they play it safe, accept their lot as a convenient eatery for the weary traveller, or they try to be bolder and do something new and genuinely attempt to do excellent food. Luckily for me, the RiverBank restaurant in the Courtyard falls firmly into the latter category. My rabbit and ham hock terrine starter set the tone for a beautiful meal, while my girlfriend’s duck spring rolls left me wishing I could have had more than one starter. For mains, I opted for a herb-crusted cod with bacon and tomato salsa which was fresh and full of flavour, while the girlfriend went for a chickpea masala that was a revelation for a carnivore such as myself. Dessert consisted of a pavlova for the lady and sticky toffee pudding for myself, both of which perfectly rounded off an excellent meal and an ever better short break.
kinnitty castle: offaly hotel and restaurant is taste of excellence
Step back in time to luxurious grandeur Hiromi mooney news@gazettegroup.com
IF you’re thinking about organising a weekend staycation, why not travel to the midlands and enjoy some of the countryside the Emerald Isle has to offer? One such place to stay is Kinnitty Castle in the quaint town of Kinnitty, just outside Birr in Co Offaly. The castle has a deep history which dates back to 1209, so not only do you have a chance to relax here, but it is a chance to
get away from the busy real world and feel as if you’re travelling back in time. Plus, it’s nestled at the foothills of the picturesque Slieve Bloom Mountains, so you can enjoy some breathtaking scenery along the way. Kinnitty Castle is a completely different experience from the modern hotels that we are more used to these days. From the moment my partner and I drove up the long driveway through the forest to
A beautiful seated area in Kinnitty Castle
the hotel entrance, we felt like we had travelled through to a different era. This feeling continued as we stepped inside the front door and were welcomed by stone steps which were lined with candles and two knights in shining armour. The walls were decorated with stuffed deer heads, large paintings and mirrors. The hotel houses 37 distinctively styled bedrooms, so your stay will be a unique experience each time. My partner
One of the distinctive bedrooms at Kinnitty Castle
and I stayed in the lavish Hutchinson Suite, which was an extremely large room that overlooked the entire front lawn. We were told that Kinnitty Castle is a popular wedding destination, and it is rightly so. There was a wedding planned for the next night, so we had a quick peek at the banquet hall which was set up beautifully. It was quite a romantic setting for the bride and groom’s special day. It also seemed like a perfect venue to celebrate any other impor tant occasion like a birthday or communion. We enjoyed a nice m e a l i n t h e d r awing room, and as the evening progressed and it grew darker outside, the candles glowed more brightly and gave the room a completely different atmosphere.
We later went to the bar in the old dungeons where there was some traditional Irish music playing. Countryside
After a good night’s rest, we were up bright and early to avail of two of the activities available on site. We first went pony trekking around the grounds, which gave us a chance to explore the area and enjoy the fresh countryside air. We later tried clay pigeon shooting, which I discovered is not for the faint-hearted like myself. But my other half literally had a blast, shooting most of the clay pigeons that were fired out. If you’re the adventurous type, you should definitely take a shot, quite literally, and experience it for yourself. But if you are prone to
25 October 2012 DUNDRUM gazette 25
Gazette
Travel fast
TRAVEL
Five-star city style at a friendly price
THE Dylan hotel, one of Dublin’s leading five-star boutique hotels, is offering guests the perfect opportunity to spoil themselves as the winter temperatures begin to set in. The sophisticated urban retreat just 15 minutes’ walk from the heart of Dublin’s shopping street, Grafton St, is located on Eastmoreland Place off Upper Baggot Street and is set in an original Victorian building housing 44 bedrooms. A new package from the stylish hotel includes overnight accommodation, complimentary full Irish breakfast, complimentary valet parking and free wi-fi, with rooms available from €179 per night. With two Experience Suites, three Experience rooms and one Signature suite, guests are offered a unique experience, with each room individually designed in warm, autumnal colours. Bedroom accessories include Belleek pottery, REN products and a Bose sound dock with an iPod. For more information or to book an overnight city break, visit www.dylan.ie.
be easily startled like me, you are better off just watching from a safe distance – it’s just as enjoyable! There is plenty to do nearby as well, like walking or cycling through the nearby mountains. But if you’re looking to learn about some of the local heritage, Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre should be your next stop to visit. It’s only a 20 minute drive from the hotel and it’s easy enough to find. The centre was recently refurbished, and the displays were very impressive. Our tour began with a video in the auditorium which explained the history of Tullamore Dew whiskey and the story of Daniel E Williams. From here, we were given a guided walk through the process of making whiskey – from
harvesting the crops to the distilling process to when it’s finally made and bottled. In short, a weekend break in the midlands is a chance to unwind and enjoy the fresh air and countryside activities. For more information about Kinnitty Castle and nearby activities, v i s i t w w w. k i n n i t t y castlehotel.com. T he Cosy Castle Comforts package at Kinnitty Castle Hotel offers two nights’ accommodation with a full Irish breakfast each morning, dinner at Sli Dala Restaurant on the evening of your choice, followed by a complimentary night cap at the traditional library bar as well as a Cosy Comforts Hamper on arrival. The special offer is available from just €149 per person sharing.
The majestic Kinnitty Castle at dusk
A magnificent bedroom with a four-poster bed
26 dundrum gazette 25 October 2012
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25 October 2012 dundrum Gazette 27
monthly awards P28
asdfsdaf gaelic games P27 P31
dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community
Gazette
MOTORSPORT P29
FastSport taylor named boxer of year:
Members of the Lucan Boxing Club that met the Irish ambassador to Denmark following their exploits at the HSK Cup last week
boxing: local club claims six medals from international tournament
Brabazon hails epic showing from Lucan boxing’s octet EIGHT Lucan boxing club members last week took on one of the biggest competitions in Europe, competing against 330 boxers from 11 nations at the HSK Box Cup in Denmark. In the process, they claimed three gold and three silver medals, making for an historic couple of days for the west Dublin club with club coach Karl Brabazon proclaiming: “Sometimes the higher the standards are set, the higher we reach to achieve them.” Team captain Mick Clarke led the way pulling off a sensational knock-out in the first round of his heavyweight
final, a right hook that left his opponent face first on the canvas. It will provide a memorable part of his highlight reel as he intends to hang up the gloves this year. Luke Byrne produced the fight of the competition by hammering his opponents with his tight skills, regularly using guts, bravery and will to slip big heavy right crosses, brilliantly slipping six inches either way before landing power shots Conor Burke brought controlled work rate to his wins and a gold medal to boot. Brian Haskins and Petru Ursu
brought home silver in close fights that could have gone their way. Robbie Coyle and John Joyce showed heart, courage and toughness and came into touching distance of that silver medal. Then Adam Cross stepped up to finish off the tournament with the very last fight with a hometown favourite in opposition. As the shouts came in for the home lad from his supporters, the 10-strong Lucan team around the ring responded “ole, ole, ole, ole” to a thunderous noise that echoed and deafened any other sound in the sports hall. Cross
lost by split decision and one point. The Lucan team were subsequently hosted by the Irish ambassador to Denmark at the Irish embassy before returning home. Speaking about his club’s involvement in the competition, Brabazon added: “A quick rundown of these fights doesn’t do these lads justice, the skill, effort and determination put in warmed the hearts of each of us trainers. “Each of the lads put in all that hard work and dedication; this was a big moment for Lucan sport that they pulled off.”
THE AIBA confirmed that Katie Taylor will receive the 2012 AIBA World Elite Female Boxer of the Year Award for a historic third time. The 2012 AIBA Award Ceremony will take place in Armenia on December 7. Taylor scooped the prestigious award in 2008 and 2010. This year, the 26-year-old claimed the Olympic, world, European and European Union lightweight titles, picking up the best boxer award in China and London. “Katie has won the award three times now and that has never been done before. It’s a great honour and we’re absolutely delighted,” said Taylor’s coach and dad, Peter Taylor.
c o n ta c t s Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@gazettegroup.com
For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6205
Gazette
28 DUNDRUM gazette 25 October 2012
SPORT
DublinGazetteNewspapers 2012 dublin sports awards october nominees
A WET and wild October proved a happy hunting ground for local GAA clubs as near neighbours Kilmacud Crokes and Cuala claimed two of the biggest prizes in the county game, finally ending their respective hoodoos in the senior hurling and inter football championships, respectively, and have Leinster campaigns to look forward to. On the individual front, the local stars have very much been looking to Europe as jiu jitsu star Darragh O’Conaill claimed a European title while Kenneth Egan showed class is permanent with a fourth gold medal from four trips to Finland. John Brophy, meanwhile, is hoping that he can play his way into the Republic of Ireland amateur squad on a more regular basis as they build toward a European championship in San Marino. November has the promise of plenty of other Leinster campaigns with Castlkenock also flying the GazetteSport flag.
H STARof the MONTH
darragh o’conaill
john brophy
kenneth egan
IRELAND’S youngest Brazillian jiu jitsu brown belt continued his fantastic form by claiming two gold medals in the middleweight division – one at the London Open and the other at the Nogi European Championships, which was also held in the English capital
THE Phoenix striker’s recent form with his club and with the Leinster senior league panel was good enough to earn him a first-ever Republic of Ireland amateur call-up, a just reward for his excellent start to the season with the Scribblestown club
BEIJING silver medallist Kenneth Egan showed there is plenty of life left in his career as he swept to a gold medal at the Tammer tournament in Finland. In a superb Irish showing, Egan was one of four gold medallists at the multi-nation event
kilmacud crokes
cuala
Round tower
THE Glenalbyn club bridged a 27-year gap to claim the Dublin senior hurling championship in excellent style. It could be the first half of a rare double as the club’s senior footballers are a step away from their third Dublin title in five years
AFTER two painful final defeats, the Dalkey club finally claimed the Dublin intermediate football championship title with a fine victory over Fingallians in Chanel College, winning out by four points off the back of a great first half showing
THE Clondalkin club made incredible strides this year at junior football level with both their AFL5 and AFL9 teams earning promotion this month. The latter did so despite being in danger of folding the team at the turn of the 2012 season
TEAMof the MONTH H
5k event draws huge crowds to Kilbogget Park sport@gazettegroup.com
Over 800 people took to the startline of the annual DLR Community 5k last week
THIS year’s DLR Community 5K in Kilbogget Park saw over 800 participants of all ages and fitness levels taking part. The event, once again kicked off Social Inclusion Week in the county. A great family atmosphere was brewing before the start with a mass warm-up run by an instructor from the DLR Leisure Services that had everyone set to go when An Cathaoirleach, CllrTom Joyce (Fine Gael) sounded the starter hooter. A constant stream of people,
from seasoned athletes to babies in prams, from 80-year-olds to teenagers, past the start line to do the 5km route at their own pace. Everyone who made it around the picturesque Kilbogget Park to the finish line was a winner with some groups using the event to fundraise for their chosen charity. With an entry fee of just €5 for adults (children were free) all participants received a t-shirt, medal and goodie bag as well as refreshments to keep energy levels up. Shane McArdle, co-ordinator with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown
sports partnership, commented: “Our key aim was to have an event that was open to everyone, from wheelchair users to joggers, to complete the course and have fun. “We are delighted to have had such a huge turnout and most importantly wide range of abilities take part and enjoy the family atmosphere.” The DLR Community 5K is organised by Dún LaoghaireRathdown sports partnership in conjunction with a number of partner agencies to provide a fun, inclusive event for everyone.
McArdle also added “a huge thank you has to go to Cabinteely FC for the use of their facilities, the Parks Department in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council for their assistance, the Community Gardai and Dublin Civil Defence for their help on the day and of course the large number of volunteers who ensured that everyone was safe and had fun. “With their help, and for the fourth year in a row the appearance of the sun, the DLR Community 5k continues to become bigger every year.”
25 October 2012 DUNDRUM gazette 29
Gazette
Cruel twist of fate for D15’s Kennedy Jack Kennedy endured a traumatic end to his second season in the British Supersport championship when his bike gave way and he was denied the title seven laps from the finish CLONSILLA man Jack Kennedy is learning not to beat himself up after round 12 of the British Supersport championships, where a technical glitch forced him to retire, when he only needed a finish to claim the series title. As soon as championship leader Glen Richards went off the track on that fateful day, a seventh place finish was all Kennedy needed to seal the championship but, on lap eight the Blanchardstow n resident’s bike gave way and the despair of the pilot was seen as he was forced to roll the Martrain Yamaha into the pits.
peter carroll sport@gazettegroup.com
“I remember seeing my clipboard and knowing that Glen had gone off around the third lap,” said Kennedy. “I wasn’t trying to go hell for leather, I took it easy and I was thinking about challenging for a podium, but I definitely didn’t want to get involved in any scraps at the top of the field. “Then I just noticed the bike getting slower, the back brake seemed
to be interfering with the speed and I just knew it was finished then. “It’s been a tough time since it happened, but I’ve to learn not to beat myself up. “I had the championship won and it was the first mechanical failure of the year for the team. It was just very unlucky,” said the Supersport ace. Martrain had invested faith in the young Irishman after seeing him recover from a big injury the year before, with the rider’s comeback being a win at Brand’s Hatch. Kennedy admits that in signing him,
Jack Kennedy produced an excellent campaign only to fall short at the final hurdle
Martrain knew he was capable of some wins, but the Northern Irish team probably didn’t think that he would be in contention for the title. “They knew I had won races, they were probably expecting a
even though it didn’t work out in my favour. “We were the only team that challenged for a large part of the season on a bike that wasn’t running on a Triumph engine and that shows the skill and determination that was
--------------------------------------------------------
‘I’m hungrier, more determined and faster than ever. I’ll be up there looking for podiums. I certainly won’t be making up the numbers’ - Jack Kennedy
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fifth place finish in the championship, so it was great to be involved in a championship run,
present throughout the whole team. “To perform the way they did is a big deal for a small team for Northern Ireland, and the fact that the first mechanical fault came in the last race of the year shows how good the team are,” said Kennedy. Without the finances to re-enter the Supersport stakes for next year, Kennedy is now eyeing a ride in the main event, the British Superbikes championship, as Martrain are in talks to represent Yamaha on their R1. “I’m hungrier, more determined and faster than ever. If it’s superbikes I’ll be up there looking for podiums, I certainly won’t be there to make up the numbers,” said the confident 24-year-old.
FastSport
French side in driving seat in Leinster group FORMER Ireland and Lions manager Donal Lenihan believes Clermont Auvergne are looking an ominous force ahead of their double showdown with Leinster. The blues got over the challenge of Scarlets in Wales last Saturday but have still yet to hit top form in the Heineken Cup despite winning twice in succession. Churchtown resident Isa Nacewa got the blues’ only try of the game while Johnny Sexton kicked the rest of the points in the 20-13 result. Also included in the side were former Blackrock College men Ian Madigan, Brian O’Driscoll and Leo Cullen, Rathfarnham native Shane Jennings while Castleknock College alumni Devin Toner came off the bench. But Lenihan says Clermont will be a level above the offering of Scarlets and Exeter Chiefs in the past fortnight: “Clermont look in a league of their own at the moment. Their performance is on a different level. Clermont versus Leinster is the place to be for round three. “It’s not going to be easy for Leinster to click into gear as they will be handicapped by the autumn internationals. They will probably only have one more match together before Clermont. It’s a big ask. After two rounds you would have to say they [Clermont] are the team in the driving seat.” He was speaking about Leinster’s hopes in connection with the Heineken Star Predictor, a competition in which members of the public compete against high profile pundits to see who can predict the outcomes from this season’s Heineken Cup matches. Among the prizes are Heineken Cup match tickets while the ultimate prize of an exclusive VIP package to the Heineken Cup final at Aviva Stadium. Among those playing the game are Irish cricket star Niall O’Brien, Newstalk’s Ger Gilroy, rugby pundit Brent Pope, former Dublinstar Jason Sherlock and broadcaster Tom Dunne. To be in with a chance of winning Heineken Cup match tickets, and an opportunity of beating George Hook, play Heineken Star Predictor; log on to www.heineken.ie/heinekencup and register for round three by 5pm on Friday, December 7.
Gazette
30 DUNDRUM gazette 25 October 2012
SPORT
FastSport
soccer: broadford sweep to strong win over Confey
Malahide make pressure pay in second half show MOUNT Merrion Youths Football Club held their 2012 Juvenile Presentations last Saturday in Oatlands School, Stillorgan with over 80 children presented with medals and over 100 parents in attendance. On hand to present the medals was chairman Barry Saul and many more volunteers involved in the club. The presentation of medals were to the U-11, U-10s and U-9s, many of whom won or came second in their division with two cups to show for their achievement. The chairman thanked the players, parents and managers of the teams for their dedication during the year.
Wesley women make tag rugby debut A PIECE of history was created at Old Wesley last week when they played their first ever women’s rugby match. The ladies braved the inclement weather to play a tag rugby match against Terenure at Donnybrook. Old Wesley came away with a 7-6 win but the emphasis was on fun and participation. Women’s rugby directorAvril Poff and coach AndrewAdams have been central in achieving this milestone. Women’s rugby training takes place every Monday evening in Donnybrook at 7pm with a second night planned for the future
with new players welcome. The club are also in the process of setting up U-16 and U-18 girls’ teams with training every Sunday at 12pm in Ballycorus grounds. For more info, contact Avril Poff on 083 1423851 or email avril.poff@ oldwesley.ie.
Meteors fall at the hands of Brunell METEORS were undone 58-55 by Singleton SuperValu Brunell in the women’s basketball SuperLeague last weekend despite 12 points from Rebecca Nagle and 10 from Beth Meany. It leaves the southside club sixth in the standings after three rounds of matches to date.
Broadford Rovers Sunday Senior side picked up their fourth win of the campaign thanks to a Mark Duncan hat trick
Duncan steals the show lsl sunday senior 1a Confey Broadford Rovers peter carroll
2 3
sport@gazettegroup.com
AF TER a storming start to Sunday’s clash with Confey, Broadford Rovers were put on the back foot late on when it took a miracle save from Kevin O’Reilly to keep his side’s grasp on the three points intact. Rovers started off the game well and it was striker Mark Duncan who did the damage on the day scoring a fine hat trick to cap off a top class performance.
T he first came 20 minutes into the game after Rovers seemed to have most of the possession, Duncan finished off a well put together move. With Confey committing bodies forward in an effort to get back on terms, the ball broke for Paul Oates’ side who finished via Duncan to double their lead. The second half brought with it a different look to the Confey side and they had their chance to get back into the game when they won a penalty shortly after the intermission.
padel launch New form of tennis comes to Rockbrook padel tennis, one of the world’s fastest grow-
ing sports, was launched in Ireland last week when Minister of State for Sport Michael Ring, centre, opened the first purpose-built court at Rockbrook Park School in Rathfarnham. A sport for all the family, Padel is similar to tennis or squash and is played in an enclosed court. More popular than football in Argentina, it is played throughout Spain, and is becoming increasingly popular in Britain.
H o w e v e r, k e e p e r O’Reilly was equal to the effort and Confey remained goalless. With 60 minutes on the clock, Rovers managed to take another goal via an in form Duncan, and it seemed like the game was over until 80 minutes were on the clock, and Confey decided to make something of the encounter. O’Reilly made an error between the sticks for the first Confey goal, but it was a header back to the Dundrum stopper that went short, allowing the Confey striker to convert that really got
their attention. In the dying moments of the tie, the Confey centre forward was one on one with O’Reilly but a fantastically timed decision kept his team’s three-point victory intact. Manager Paul Oates cl a i m e d t h a t t h r e e points gained will have a big impact if the team are going to fight for promotion. “It was an absolutely huge three points,” Oates told GazetteSport. “We lost the week before to St Francis so we needed three points to break even on four
wins and four losses. “ We ’ ve m a d e t h e league our priority and Glen Fitzpatrick has come in to give us a hand – his experience at the top level in Ireland is huge and the lads are reacting really well to his involvement. “We have some weakness at the back, but it’s nothing we can’t work on. “If we win our games in hand we are right back in the mix and with all of tthe teams in the league taking points off each other, we still have a great chance,” finished Oates.
25 October 2012 DUNDRUM gazette 31
sport@gazettegroup.com
B A L LY B O D E N S t E n da ’s cl ai med the ladies’ football minor shield last Friday when they got the better of Clontarf 4-11 to 3-7 in an exciting final. The first 10 minutes were tight until Boden found a groove and burst into a 1-4 to
0-2 points lead when Simone O’Reilly hit the net. A Clontarf penalty saw them storm back into contention, narrowing the gap to two points by the break. The second was nip and tuck with Danielle Aylmer in goal making two great saves. But the gamebreaking spell came midway through
the half when Maria McGrath and Maeve Scully scored two goals and Katie Murphy and McGrath tagged on points. C l o n t a r f g o t t wo goals back before Aisling O’Brien had a goal controversially disallowed for being in the square, before O’Reilly scored another super
goal to extend the lead again amid a flurry of action. Clontarf came back scoring three unanswered points to leave the game at 4-8 to 3-7 before McGrath scored two frees and a point from play to finish the game with seven points to spare in the final reckoning.
Football: Kilmacud end st brigid’s reign
Gazette
ASDFASDSAF Boden claim ladies’ minor shield Club Noticeboard ballinteer st john’s THERE was no winner of the Thurs-
enjoy a night of music and craic.
da y, Oc tob er 18 lot to dr aw of
Spread the word to your friends,
€3,800. Next week’s draw will be for
family and neighbours.
€4,000. Tickets are available online at w w w. b a llin te e r s t john s .com or from the usual outlets.
Congratulations to the girls’ U-14 and U-12 teams on winning their respective championship finals. Congratulations to Orlagh Nolan
Wednesday night is a great night of
on her call-up to the Irish U-19
traditional music, no cover charge.
squad for the Euro qualifying cam-
Why not come up and join in or
paign.
naomh olaf CONGRATULATIONS to our U-15 ladies footballers who secured their first ever championship title with a fantastic win over Round Tower by a margin of 11 points on Saturday, October 20. The following day our U-14 ladies
Our intermediate footballers are in contention for promotion from AFL3. Our U-15 camogie team reached their championship final. A Mass for deceased members takes place on November 17 at 7pm.
footballers had a decisive win over St
Treasured memories of the 30-year
Pat’s (Donabate) in the final of the U-14
history of Naomh Olaf is now to be
football division three championship
found in the homes of almost 700
to win 4–4 to nil.
members and former club members,
The clubhouse was alive last Sunday night when Dublin minor All-Ireland winning team with the Tom Markham Cup came along to honour team captain Naomh Olaf’s David Byrne and medal winner Steven Mulranny.
including some in New York and Melbourne. Copies may be obtained from Eileen Hickey on 01 2953969. Bingo, lotto draw, music and dance every Sunday night at the clubhouse.
stars of erin SATURDAY saw a large number of children taking part in our weekly Kilmacud Crokes’ Darren Magee gets away from Mark Brennan during his side’s SFC quarter-final victory
Crokes march into senior football final stephen findlater sport@gazettegroup.com
K ILMACUD Crokes produced an immense second half performance on Sunday to end St Brigid’s reign as Dublin senior football champions, claiming a 2-18 to 2-12 in the semi-final. It followed hot on the heels of a messy 1-6 to 0-6 win over St Sylvester’s four days earlier, played out in atrocious conditions in Parnell Park. That night, Paul Mannion was key, scoring 1-2 including the an allimportant second half goal to see off the Mala-
hide side after half-time when the sides were locked at three points each. Sunday’s battle with Brigid’s at the same venue was a much more freeflowing affair, something which initially did not suit Crokes as they fell behind 2-9 to 0-7 at the break. Craig Kilmurray and Paddy Andrews both netted in quick succession to build a commanding lead while John O’Loughlin furthered his claims to be the championship’s player of the competition with two brilliant scores. But half-time saw a sea-change in fortunes as
Mark Coughlan curtailed Cahill’s influence and it took barely five minutes to reduce the gap as Pat Burke and Cian O’Sullivan combined to bring the sides level. Brigid’s lost possession going forward for Burke’s goal but the powerful Crokes’ forward still had a lot to do when he won the ball 20-metres out, however, he manoeuvred himself into space before striking to the corner of the net off his left foot. A m i n u t e l a t e r, O’Sullivan drove at the heart of the Brigid’s defence and got a bit of luck as an attempted
handpass rebounded back to him before beating Shane Supple from 10 metres. A fine Craig Dias point brought the sides level before the highly influential Paul Mannion nosed his side ahead with a free. Crucially Crokes continued to apply the pressure as Adrian Morrissey kicked three points in quick succession. Brigid’s temporarily arrested their slide with Cian Mullins and Ken Darcy points but subs Stephen Williams and Barry O’Rorke kicked the insurance scores.
nursery. The nursery alternates between hurling and football every Satur-
is very welcome. There was a clean sweep recorded on the football front at juvenile level with U-8s, U-10s and U-12s all winning their games.
day morning from 10am in Glen-
Really wonderful skills on display
cullen and continues to grow and
in this game from both sides in the
the club would like to thank all the
U-8s win against St Pat’s.
club coaches who make the special effort to attend. The nursery is open to all children from three to seven and everyone
Special mentions to Liam, Ciara, Noah and Joe who played superbly. Joe scored a wonderful 45 to start the fightback.
wanderers THERE was no winner of the lotto jack-
11am-12 noon for all ages, and each
pot. Numbers drawn were 1, 25 and 28;
Wednesday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm for
€25 to A Mills, Nuala Walsh and Derek
age six and up at Frank Kelly Park. All
Bradshaw. The jackpot next week is
welcome. Contact Niall for details on
€5,400.
086 8857303.
New 400 member quarterly draw
Ladies training each Monday and
tickets with great prizes now on sale.
Wednesday at 7.20pm in Frank Kelly
Each draw is limited to 400 entrants,
Park. Contact Gerry on 086 8176361.
with large cash prizes. Each draw is €5 per ticket, or €20 for the year. The next draw is on December 23. Contact Tony on 087 1259722 or any committee member for more details.
Kids’ Halloween fancy dress and disco party will take place on Saturday, October 27 at Frank Kelly Park, 3pm to 5pm, €2 per child, all welcome. The annual adult Halloween fancy
Congratulations to our Under-12s
dress party will take place on Bank
who beat Kimacud on Saturday last to
Holiday Sunday, October 28 at the
reach the league playoff final against
Merry Ploughboy, 8pm until late, €10
St Enda’s on November 10. Well done to
entry which includes a drink.
all. Juvenile training each Saturday from
Contact Gabby on 087 2444444 for more details.
GazetteSPORT all of your dundrum sports coverage from page 27-31
rocking rovers: Broadford see off Confey to lift their hopes in the LSL Sunday Senior 1A P30
october 25, 2012
kennedy’s devastation: Clonsilla man within seven laps of glory P29
Kilmacud Crokes will hope to repeat scenes like this at Parnell Park on Monday night as they face Ballymun Kickhams in their third Dublin SFC final in five seasons
Crokes overcome doubts Kilmacud’s Hugh Kenny says his side always believed they could overturn an eight point half-time deficit as they ousted St Brigid’s
peter carroll
sport@gazettegroup.com
KILMACUD Crokes’ manager Hugh Kenny admitted there were some seriously anxious moments when his team headed in at half-time last Sunday when they faced defending champions St Brigid’s, who took a lead of 2-9 to 0-7 at Parnell Park in the Dublin senior football championship semi-final. “There were doubts of course,” said the former Wicklow manager. “But, having been with the lads since February and knowing they had been together for such a long time before that, I knew the talent was there for a turnaround. “Playing the champions, St Brigid’s, there’s
always going to be doubts, but we had a few choice words at half-time and the players themselves gave each other some constructive criticism. “What’s said in the dressing room stays there but we all knew we had to do something. And we knew if we got an early goal we’d have time to get the game back on our terms,” said Kenny. Sure enough, Crokes came out with the bit between their teeth in the second half and two goals were put away in five minutes which rallied the team on to victory. Kenny claims that he expected a reaction, but didn’t anticipate it coming so soon. “They went out very aggressive and wiped the
eight-point lead out in four minutes. That gave us so much time to work towards the win – it was quite a contrast to how we were feeling at half-time. “We knew we had to go gung-ho at Brigid’s and the timing of it worked out well for us. We didn’t think about St Brigid’s as champions, but rather focused on our own game and I think that put us in the driving seat. Our game is always the most important,” insisted the Crokes’ chief. Now readying themselves for a clash with Ballymun Kickhams on bank holiday Monday, Kenny believes both sides will go in with a belief in their credentials which could lead to a very competitive game. “We know that Kickhams are top of AFL1;
they’re unbeaten and they’ve had some top class challenge matches with the likes of Crossmaglen. We know them alright, and they’re certainly a coming team. “It’s going to be a battle with both sides going in on a level playing field. They believe they can win and we certainly believe we can go on to victory so it makes for a great game,” said the Wicklow man. Kenny also highlighted what it would mean for him to bring the championship home to his new club. “The stature of Kilmacud Crokes has been built up amazingly well over the last decade and they want the championship, it would be great for the club.”