Dundrum 4 2 16

Gazette DUNDRUM

INSIDE: We ask the people what will sway their

vote at the upcoming general election Pages 6-7

Craft beer festival:

Project Arts Centre abuzz with RTE stars Page 12-13

Picture: Alan Moore

Page 19

Comedy central:

sport Football:

Ballyboden’s McDaid fresh for Clonmel Page 32

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

February 4-10, 2016

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looking to grab some creative new talents LITTLE visitors at Imaginosity, the popular children’s museum in Sandyford, enjoyed the chance to get up close to RTE’s Blathnaid Ni Chofaigh, playwright and author Maeve Ingoldsby and publisher’s agent Conor Hackett recently. The trio kept children entertained as they helped to launch Imaginosity’s annual search for young story tellers, with the fourth annual What’s the Story – A Big Competition for Little Story Makers seeking entries. Running until March 4, children between three and nine are invited to create an original story, with winners to be announced in May. For further information about the creative competition, see www.imaginosity.ie.

Annual event brews up a storm at the convention centre

Pink accents help to give St Valentine’s Day bags of appeal

Redevelopment works at Holy Cross Church Religious hub to close for upgrades from end of April, and reopen in September

 emma nolan

HOLY Cross Church on Dundrum’s Main Street is currently being redeveloped, with staff at the church saying that they are hoping the works will be completed by Septem-

ber.

Holy Cross applied for planning permission to redevelop parts of the existing building last year and were granted permission by the council, and began works in November last year.

T he church will be closed to facilitate the major renovations from the end of April, and is aiming for a reopening in September.

Parish Priest Fr John Brack told The Gazette that he and the parish are

delighted that the works have begun.

He said: “The parish has been waiting a long time for this to start; it’s been eight years in the pipeline.”

Full Story on Page 5

2 DUNDRUM Gazette 4 February 2016

justice | deputy alan shatter initiates latest bid to free jailed youth

Dail Motion to seek Halawa’s release DEPUTY Alan Shatter (FG) has tabled a Dail motion calling for the release of Dundrum man Ibrahim Halawa from an Egyptian prison.

Halawa, who is the son of the Imam of Clonskeagh Mosque, was arrested for taking part in a banned protest against the ousting of Egyptian president Mohamed Morsi in July, 2013, when he was 17 years old.

Now aged 20, Halawa’s case came before the European Parliament in December but has since been adjourned for a twelfth time, with the next trial date set for March 6.

D e p u t y S h a t t e r ’s motion calls on the

 emma nolan enolan@dublingazette.com

Egyptian authorities to immediately and unconditionally release him to the Irish authorities, but it may not be put before the house as the current government was about to be dissolved at the time of going to press.

The deputy and the Halawa family have asked that the motion be treated with urgency and adopted by current TDs before the election.

Deputy Shatter said: “If the Dail is dissolved and this does not prove possible, it is my hope that the next Dail will adopt the motion if Ibrahim’s trial has not occurred, and if he remains imprisoned.”

The motion also calls on the Egyptian authorities to ensure that the health and wellbeing of Halawa is maintained while he remains in prison, and demands that all allegations of torture and maltreatment be thoroughly and independently investigated.

Deputy Shatter has said that he has been in regular contact with the Halawa family since the then

teen’s arrest, and has met with and discussed his circumstances with the Egyptian ambassador.

He said: “There is no certainty that the trial will take place on its next scheduled date of March 6, and together with his family and others, I have very major concerns as to how a trial can properly proceed with such a large number of defendants before the court.”

Halawa’s case is part of a mass trial involving more than 400 people being tried by Egyptian authorities.

Speaking on the Dail motion to be tabled, he said: “In consultation with Ibrahim’s family,

Dundrum man Ibrahim Halawa’s mass trial in Egypt, where he has been imprisoned since 2013 for taking part in a protest march when he was 17 years old, has now been adjourned for a twelfth time, prompting further concern in Ireland

I initiated steps for the tabling of a Dail motion to enable members of Dail Eireann record our concern about his circumstances and seek his release.

“A cross section of TDs from all sides in the Dail chamber have been in contact with me in support of the motion, and

agreeing that their names be associated with it. I have lodged the motion in the Parliamentary Office.”

The former Minister for Justice also extended his gratitude towards all members of the Dail who have shown support for the initiative.

The campaign to

release Halawa has been supported by a number of politicians across all parties, including MEPs Lynn Boylan (SF) and Sean Kelly (FG) in the European Parliament, and Deputy Pat Breen (FG), who visited Halawa in the Wadi AlNatrun prison in Cairo last August.

4 February 2016 DUNDRUM Gazette 3

Leopardstown | investment in public nursing home facilities

musician

Eoghan to compete for gold

€11.97m funding boost for hospital  emma nolan

The news that public nursing homes are to receive €385m in funding announced by Minister for Social Care Kathleen Lynch last week will greatly benefit the Leopardstown Park Hospital.

The plan, which is the most extensive investment in public nursing home facilities in the history of the State, benefits 90 centres nationally which will either be refurbished or replaced and Leopardstown Park Hospital has been awarded €11.97m to fund replacement of services at the hospital with works to be completed by 2021.

Leopardstown Park Hospital was established in 1917 as a hospital and

home, for the care and treatment of soldiers who were disabled or injured in the British Armed Forces. Currently, it caters for approximately 260 clients per week both residential and day care.

Cllr Carrie Smy th (Lab) said: “I am pleased to confirm that the Leopardstown Park Hospital has been included in this unprecedented investment package for public nursing homes.

“The future of these nursing homes is now secure as a result of this announcement, something which is very reassuring for those living in these homes and indeed their families throughout the county.”

Minister Alex White said: “This is very wel-

come news for Leopardstown Park hospital and all who depend on it. We have created a sustained economic recovery and capital funding is now available to secure the long-term future of this and other important community facilities. I have worked closely with the hospital’s board to achieve this outcome because local demographic trends indicate the need for such public investment. I very much welcome this commitment from my colleague Minister Kathleen Lynch.

This comes on top of new investment to purchase Mount Carmel hospital as a community hospital, with the establishment of 100 community and step-down beds.”

 emma nolan

Dundrum musician Eoghan O Ceannabhain will be one of 15 musicians taking to the stage in Cork on Friday, February 5 to compete for the Sean O Riada Gold Medal.

Eoghan is a native Irish speaker, born and raised in Dublin, but with Connemara roots.

debate win for wesley

TEACHER Geraldine McKeon was on hand to congratulate Wesley College students Claire Campbell, Beth Dover and Eric Sheeran Purcell following their recent Gael Linn regional debating final win – their first. The Wesley College students impressed judges at the historic Scoil Eanna – now the Pearse Museum – founded by one of the leaders of the 1916 Rising, Patrick Pearse in Rathfarnham, with their skilful oratory skills – something Pearse himself would surely have approved of. The students were debating against rival teams drawn from Leixlip, Lucan and Clondalkin, yet scooped first place – and their historic first regional final win – with a win that will see the team go on to the all-Ireland Gael Linn final, to be held before the Easter break.

Steeped He plays concertina, flute and is a sean-nos singer, and was steeped in music growing up.

His whole family plays and sings, including parents Una and Peadar, and sisters Saileog and Muireann.

The final will be broadcast live on RTE Raidio na Gaeltachta at 7pm.

4 DUNDRUM Gazette 4 February 2016

4 February 2016 DUNDRUM Gazette 5

vote | support sees a housing emergency declared

Housing crisis emergency motion passed  Emma Nolan

Labour councillor Peter O’Brien has shown his support for a motion to call on the central government to raise the housing crisis to a national emergency status.

The motion, which seeks to give further recognition to the 12,000 people in Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County on the social housing lists and the 100,000 families nationally in need of a permanent home, was proposed by People

Before Profit Councillor Hugh Lewis and was passed.

A similar motion was put to the Dail by Richard Boyd Barrett TD in 2015, but was defeated with Labour and Fine Gael voting against.

Speaking on the passing of the motion, Richard Boyd Barrett said: “I am delighted that the majority of councillors in Dun Laoghaire Rathdown have finally supported our motion to declare a housing emergency. However, it is bizarre to say the

least, that the Labour Party locally would support this motion when the Labour Party minister Alan Kelly is the one with the power to do this. Maybe they are seeing the writing on the wall as an election approaches.”

Speaking on his decision to suppor t the motion, Labour councillor Peter O’Brien told The Gazette: “We are in a housing crisis and it is important to recognise it as such. I fully support the Government Housing strategy 2020

100,000 families nationally are in need of a permanent home

and the largest capital investment in Housing

by Minister Alan Kelly.

The current government had to reverse the failed housing policies of the past and not rely totally on the private sector whose only goal is to turn a profit and there-

fore not in the best interest of our citizens.

“Councils have a responsibility to provide the infrastructure to provide social housing and suitable development land for housing projects.

We need some form of rent control in the private

market and for the expedited rollout of the HAP scheme in the county.”

“As councillors we have a duty to provide strong leadership to ensure that Part 8 housing planning is approved and construction of housing can commence.”

council Markets feedback sought THE council are seeking feedback from the public on the weekly council markets – People’s Park Market in Dun Laoghaire and Marlay Park Market in Rathfarnam. As part of their continued development, the council have created a survey on the DLR Citizen Space Consultation Hub, with a view to learning about customer expectations and suggestions for the future growth of the markets.

CllrVictor Boyhan (Ind) said: “I would encourage people to have their say we are very proud of the markets, the venues, ambience, quality of the food and fresh produce have greatly contributed to the success of these two local council markets.

Find the survey on dlrcoco.ie

6 DUNDRUM Gazette 4 February 2016

Holy Cross | major renovations to start from the end of April

Church set to close for works  Emma Nolan

Holy Cross Church on Dundrum’s Main Street is currently being redeveloped and staff at the church say that they are hoping the works will be completed by September.

Holy Cross applied for planning permission to redevelop parts of the existing building last year and were granted permission by the council.

The proposed works are being carried out in three phases, with only interior changes taking place at the moment.

The church will be closed to facilitate the

major renovations from the end of April, and is aiming for a reopening in September.

Holy Cross School will be used for mass and church services in the meantime.

€3m costs Cedar Construction is heading the project, that will cost €3m in total. The funds were raised from the sale of the field at the rear of the premises in 2007.

Parish Priest Fr John Brack told The Gazette that he and the parish are delighted that the works have begun. He said: “The parish has been waiting a long

time for this to start; it’s been eight years in the pipeline.”

Major refurbishments are yet to take place but will consist of the removal of the front railings and an upgrade of the front entrance, the construction of a new entrance over two levels.

The works will make the ancillar y parish office accessible at ground level via Ballinteer Road and internally from the church by partially removing the parish shop wall.

This phase will also consist of the demolition of the existing boiler room, chimney,

ramp and external staircase, and refurbishment of and alterations to the parish hall and ancillary rooms at the lower ground floor level.

Repairs on the stonework and facade will be made and the sacristy room will be reconfigured to provide views of the parochial garden.

Remodelling Interior refurbishments include the relocation and provision of a new baptismal area, remodelling and extension of the choir balcony and removal and relocation of porch screens and door.

Minor adjustments to

Call to check the electoral register  emma nolan EXACTLY 2,523 young people in Dun LaoghaireRathdown have turned 18 since last year and will have a right to vote in the upcoming General Election.

The National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) is encouraging young people in the county to make sure they are registered to vote.

If the election is held at the end of February, as is widely expected, the deadline for inclusion on the supplementary register could be as early as February 8.

James Doorley, NYCI deputy director, said: “Any young person who is 18 years of age on or before the date of the election is eligible to vote.

“If they are not currently registered, they can download and fill in the RFA2 form at checktheregister.ie.”

A wide range of works at Holy Cross Church will make the church more accessible, as well as providing vital upgrades and refurbishment

the organ and provision of a reconciliation room will also be made.

Redecoration works will consist of repairing stained glass windows, the provision of a new

sculptural cross and flagpoles to the Main Street frontage.

A complete overhaul of the electrical and amplification system will also be provided.

Fr Bracken says the removal of the railings from the front of the church will make it more opening and welcoming to parishioners and visitors.

4 February 2016 DUNDRUM Gazette 7

8 DUNDRUM Gazette 4 February 2016

vox pops | the gazette newspaper asks people about their main concerns Question: What is the most important General Election issue to you?

Health service improvements

One of the main things is the water charges and pay restoration  Paula

Homelessness is a big concern to us because it’s on the rise

Geraghty,

 Ruby Lawlor

blanchardstown

and Sean Durack

One of the main things is the water charges and pay restoration in the public sector, particularly with newly qualified teachers who face a lot of barriers to getting paid when they start working.

Homelessness is a big concern to us because it’s on the rise, which is horrible – it’s getting worse and worse.

We noticed that some premises are putting up homeless barriers, which are very inhumane – they should be putting money towards shelters instead.

 ken healy, dundrum

THERE isn’t one thing in particular that is most important, but I would like to see improvements made to the health service.

They [the Government] need to completely change the local property tax, as the current system is badly implemented.

The water charges are my main concern

I’d like to see more jobs for graduates

 daniel grant, blanchardstown

MY biggest concern is the water charges. I think the Government have no right to tax us on something that’s basically a human right. The fact that they put fluoride in the water is bad enough but now that we have to pay for water, I think it’s just too much to ask.

 Lynda Espey, Rathfarnham

PRIMARILY, I would like to see more jobs available for graduates, especially for those who have moved abroad because they can’t find work here.

That would be a big concern I’d have.

The national debt is a big issue, as is the national pension fund

 peter barry, lucan

THE big issue for me would be the national debt.

They’re talking about getting rid of the universal social charge, and spending money here and there, but yet we have a huge national debt disservice. The national pension fund is being dipped into over and over again by the Government, which is putting many hard-working people into a state of uncertainty. I also have big concerns about who is going to replace the Taoiseach.

4 February 2016 DUNDRUM Gazette 9

and issues in the run up to the general election 2016

Water charges are a concern  John Cummins lucan

The water and household charges would be my major concerns as many people just can’t afford to pay them. The [general] election is coming up, and of course they’re promising us many things. But [An Taoiseach] Enda Kenny once said that he would never put a tax on someone’s home, saying that it would be immoral. He lost his morals very quick once he got elected.

Keeping the country on The cost of medication and the USC the right track

Cost of third-level education to expensive  Anne Trant, lucan

I think the cost of third-level education is getting more and more expensive and while there are grants available to students, transport causes a big problem for them. Going to the likes of DCU and Maynooth is very inaccessible if you’re from Lucan, and the day-to-day costs of transport alone is extremely expensive.

Homelessness is such a big concern

 pat sheehan

 Damien Bracken,

blanchardstown

lucan

 Marie Butler, lucan

MY MAIN concern would be to keep the country on the right track. Homelessness would be a big issue to me. I think the Government are trying to get a grip with the homeless crisis, but I still think a lot more should be done, and there is a lot more that they can do. This will take time and money so, hopefully, the next government will head in the right direction.

MY WIFE is on medication for the rest of her life, so receiving a medication card is something we’re really trying to fight for at the moment. It’s proven difficult now with all of these cuts, and it’s one of the issues that I’m raising to politicians calling at my door. The universal social charge is another big concern of mine, which I think is an absolutely ridiculous tax – I think it’s an insult to the workers of Ireland.

The fact that homelessness is on the rise is such a big concern of mine. I know someone who lost their home and she went on TV to highlight what she was going through, and eventually she was given a house.

There are people on the housing list for a very long time, and I think it’s peoplepower which gets things done. The Government just needs constant pushing.

10 DUNDRUM Gazette 4 February 2016

dundrumGazettegallery | Stepaside Garda Station protest

Sharon and Alannah Harrison

Pearl Fleming, Mona Stafford and Patricia McDonald. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

Station campaign comes to a head

Pol O’Murchy and Mary Mhic Dhomhnaill

T

he campaign to reopen Stepaside Garda Station came to a head recently as a rally attended by a number of politicians which drew a crowd of over 500 locals was held.

The protesters turned out to hear how their local councillors and TDs plan to address the issue which has seen residents of rural areas of Dundrum, Stepaside, Kilgobbin, Kiltiernan, Glenamuck and Glencullen see a rise in crime and break ins since the closure of Stepaside Garda station in April 2013. The event was supported by locals who have been affected by recent crimes in the area, young and old attended.

s

z

Retired Garda Ultan Robers Harrison

Emma Kealy and Sarah Fonson

Sherlock

Local politicians and councillors spoke on the issue

4 February 2016 DUNDRUM Gazette 11

12 DUNDRUM Gazette 4 February 2016

Gazettegallery

| RTE Radio’s first ever radio comedy festival

Comedy extravaganza comes to arts centre Deirdre O’Kane, Gearoid Farrell, Amy Huberman, Fred Cooke, Colm O’Regan and Maxine Jones. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Amy Huberman and Deirdre O’Kane

T Comedians The Nualas

he Project Arts Centre in Dublin was buzzing with laughter recently as RTE Radio 1’s Comedy Showhouse got up and running, it is due to finish on February 7.

The first of its kind, the event is a new festival of

Irish comedy, featuring Sean Hughes, Deirdre O’Kane, Andrew Maxwell, Al Porter, Colm O’Regan, Fred Cooke, Amy Huberman, John Colleary, Foil, Arms and Hog and many more. The live comedy recordings will be broadcast on RTE Radio 1 across 2016.

Good things...

ALL NEW SPORTAGE Kia Dundrum Braemor Road, Churchtown, Dublin 14, (01) 296 4020, www.kiadundrum.ie

4 February 2016 DUNDRUM Gazette 13

Gazettegallery

| launching Team Dublin Clean-Up initiative

Katie Delaney from St Brigids National School with

Megan McLoughlin from St Brigids National

broadcaster Joe Duffy and An tArdmheara Criona Ni

School Go team: launching litter initiative. Pictures: Conor McCabe

Dhalaigh

Tidying up the capital A

n tArdmheara Criona Ni Dhalaigh and broadcaster Joe Duffy launched Dublin City Council’s inaugural Team Dublin Clean-Up initiative recently outside St Catherine’s Church, Thomas Street, Dublin 8. Team Dublin Clean- Up calls on residents, community groups

and businesses in Dublin to come out and support a special clean-up effort in their local area ahead of the 1916 Centenary Commemorations.

The collaborative clean-up will take place in various locations around the city on Easter Saturday,

March 26 from 11am to 1pm. Individuals and groups can register on www.teamdublincleanup.ie. Dublin City Council’s Waste Management Division will be providing all clean up equipment to those who register and will remove litter collected for disposal on the day.

Pupils from St Brigids National School Lexie, Lee and Zoe Ecock

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Fuel consumption figures in l/100km for the Kia Optima and Sportage range are: Urban 5.2 - 10.6, Extra Urban 3.7 - 5.9, Combined 4.2 - 7.5. The official CO2 emissions are between 247 - 110 g/ km. Warranty is 7 years/150,000km full warranty. Terms and conditions available in warranty and service handbook. Model shown may not be to Irish specification. Detailed Irish specifications can be found on our website. Please check with your dealer that your chosen model has your required specification. www.kia.com

14 Gazette 4 February 2016

music | massive attack live at the olympia theatre, january

Old energies, passions to the fore in new tour  colm murray

MASSIVE Attack’s last visit to these shores was a near perfect performance on a near perfect summer’s evening, closing 2014’s Longitude festival in Marlay Park in the south of the city.

Prior to that, it was (akin to this evening)

at the beginning of their European tour showcasing new material.

Opening the set amid a swirl of fog with new track Dead Editors, the tone was set for the evening.

The following four numbers mirrored that of their Marlay Park set – Battle Box, Unit-

ed Snakes, Rising Son – introducing “living legend” Horace Andy for his first number, the brooding Girl I love You – all portraying the claustrophobic atmospherics associated with a Massive Attack show.

Their trademark visuals still provided a backdrop of pulsating

images and dates from the current Syrian conlict.

On this night, they chose to rely on new material for the bulk of their set and left out many classics such as Safe From Harm and Unfinished Sympathy.

Perhaps they felt tracks like these wouldn’t have been in keeping with the overtly ominous overtones of the rest of the set, and the socio-political commentary being screened behind them.

Even the hits they did choose to perform – such as Teardrop – just didn’t have the impact that was expected (vocalist Martina Topley Bird does not have the strength to pull this off convincingly), but instead sounded a little weak (this may have been the fault of the mix), although the return of Horace Andy with Angel was definitely the highlight of the show.

Massive Attack can

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

‘Their trademark visuals still provided a backdrop of pulsating images, from binary to flashing logs, and images and dates from the current Syrian conlict’

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

be forgiven for areas of the set which appeared rusty, given this was the opening night of the tour.

Certainly, as the tour picks up momentum and the release of further material becomes more familiar, this will definitely be a must-see show in the year ahead – it’s always a pleasure to see these guys, warts and all.

Massive Attack started their new tour off with a spin to the Olympia Theatre

Ritual Spirit feels infused with talent MASSIVE Attack’s long awaited new material has dropped in the form of a new EP, Ritual Spirit (Virgin/EMI), with a stellar cast of guest vocalists.

The four-track EP takes you on a journey that begins with Dead Editors – an opening track nearing five minutes long, featuring acclaimed rapper Roots Manuva at the fore.

The record takes a sonic shift to a more melodic realm with Ritual Spirit, introducing East Londoner Azekel on vocals. Atmospherically, it’s the lightest of the four tunes.

New outfit (lauded by Massive Attack leader, Robert Del Naja

as “the best band in the world”) Young Fathers’ collaboration on Voodoo in My Blood feels like a climactic moment for the EP, with traits reminiscent of Heligoland pushed into fresh new territory.

Driving it home is Take It There, and Tricky kills it. Since his acrimonious split from the group after the release of the Protection album, his presence is an embellishment that feels like he never left as he wraps the track around his rasping vocals. (Tip: listen to this on a decent sound system and turn up the bass!)

Rumour has it that a full-length album is set to come later in the year, but if Ritual Spirit doesn’t

keep you sated, take comfort in knowing the group have another EP on the way.

Written and co-produced by Grant Marshall, the next release is pencilled in for spring – bring it on!

4 February 2016 Gazette 15

asdfsdaf finances P27 P18

feature P17

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

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diary P16

a day in the life: author ava mccarthy balances writing with work and family life

Maintaining the write attitude  emma nolan

INTERNATIONAL best-selling crime author Ava McCarthy has just released her latest novel: Dead Secret.

T he Dublin-based writer took time out of her hectic schedule to talk to The Gazette about a typical day in her life, which sees her as not only a prolific writer, but a full-time financial services IT project manager at Bloomberg, and a mother of two.

Speaking on her newly published work, she said: “It’s about a young woman who discovers her husband has murdered their only child, so she decides to kill him and kill herself – but it doesn’t quite go to plan, and she learns things about her husband that she didn’t really want to.”

McCar thy resisted writing Dead Secret for a while, due to the dark and uncomfortable themes that it deals with, but she couldn’t get the story out of her head so she finally built up the courage to begin it.

On juggling writing and work, she said: “I work full time as well as writing, so it’s a challenge – it’s pretty hectic.”

Having taken a few years off work to write her

first three novels, McCarthy didn’t think she’d write another book, and she returned to work, but she said she decided to “use every spare moment” and finally wrote Dead Secret.

McCarthy, who has degrees in physics and nuclear medicine, credited her writing skills with her logical approach to fiction writing, and said that she is “particularly proud” of this book.

A typical day in the writer’s life starts at “the hideous hour of 5am” when she gets up to shower, wake the dogs, have a

cup of tea and sit down at the kitchen table when everyone else is asleep, where she can write for two hours before leaving for work.

“It has to be every day, otherwise I’d lose momentum, even if it’s only for half an hour, but it adds up.”

McCarthy said that her morning writing session flies by before it’s time to hop on the Luas to work, where she continues to jot down notes.

Her 9-to-1 routine consists of a busy work day, and then McCarthy finds a quiet place at lunch to

sit with her laptop to continue writing.

She said that there’re not many quiet places to sit in her busy office.

“Sometimes, the only alternative is to go into the ladies [toilets], put the lid down, lock myself in, put my laptop on my knees and just click away on the keyboard,” she laughed.

“You learn to tune out all the flushing, although I don’t know what the ladies in the other cubicles thought I was doing!”

McCarthy’s evenings are reserved for family time with her two teen-

Author, financial services IT project manager and mother of two, Ava McCarthy

age children, her husband and two dogs. While she often does a little work then, she uses this time to unwind and prepare for

the next day.

“My family are around then and the last thing I want is for my books to affect them in any way.

Once we’re all back in the house together, I don’t want to be locking myself in a room to write,” she said.

Gazette

16 Gazette 4 February 2016

dublinlife

diary

Sample a taste of Dublin with culinary delights

Foodies mark your calendars as Dublin’s favourite food festival, Dine in Dublin, returns this February for the eighth year running.

Taking place from Monday, February 22, to Sunday, February 28, the capital will come alive with a feast of culinary delights. Brought to you by DublinTown,

Dine in Dublin sees the biggest names in the Dublin foodie scene offer a tasty dining experience over the course of seven days.

Over 50 of Dublin’s most famed restaurants will participate, offering the very best of fresh local produce. The 2016 line-up includes Dublin hot spots Pichet,

San Lorenzo’s, Saba, The Church, Fallon & Byrne, Zaragoza, Red Torch Ginger, Le Bon Crubeen and Flanagans to name but a few.

Those shopping and socialising in the city centre can soak up the f lavours of the festival at Dine in Dublin’s Dine Pavilion; an exciting outdoor kitchen sit-

uated on the city centre streets throughout the week of Dine in Dublin.

Here the city’s top chefs will host live demonstrations showcasing the very best of their most loved Dublin dishes.

For more information and the latest news, including confirmed restaurants, activities and booking information, visit www.dineindublin.ie.

developing coding skills with fun Schools all over Ireland are invited to register to take part in this year’s National Scratch Competition.

Scratch is a visual programming language that encourages children to develop coding skills through fun and interactive learning. An educational tool that fosters creativity, critical thinking and problem solving and communication skills in children, participants can create their own interactive stories, animations, games and music which can then be shared on the web.

Since the inaugural competition in 2010, Scratch has established itself among students and teachers as a leading platform and showcase for Ireland’s aspiring digital creators.

T he 2016 Scratch National Final will take place in the RDS during Tech Week 2016 (24 to 30 April). The closing date for registrations is Friday, February 12.

Top Dublin chef Temple Garner of San Lorenzo is pictured with Minister of Tourism, Transport and Sport Paschal Donohoe and Kerri Nicole Blanc announcing the dates for the 2016 Dine in Dublin festival

Irish Student Summit 2016 This year’s Irish Student Summit 2016 will take place on February 4 in Dublin Castle.

The event will host over 600 students, over 40 start-ups, 22 workshops and powerhouse business speakers from Twitter, Paddy Power, the American Embassy, the Indian Embassy, Silicon Republic, Ireland AM, Mor Gin, Cool Beans and Humans of Dublin.

One Student Start-up will walk away with a €1,500 investment from Enterprise Ireland in their business idea. A panel of judges will narrow down applications to the ten best from the online submissions and the public will be able to vote for their favourite two on Twitter and Facebook.

At the Summit, the final two applicants will go head-to-head in front of an audience and a panel of judges, who will vote for the winner.

Find out more at studentsummit.ie.

ridesharing not a popular option Four out of five passengers in Ireland feel safest

in a licensed taxi and a large majority would be against paying a stranger for a lift under a controversial ridesharing plan, according to a survey carried out for taxi company Hailo.

The survey, carried out by iReach, sampled 1,000 people nationwide.

It found that 85% of passengers do not feel they will come to harm in a taxi, with 64% saying they feel “safe” and 21% saying they feel “very safe”.

The survey found very low levels of public support for ridesharing in Dublin- a practice, illegal in Ireland but operating in some parts of the US and Europe, which allows motorists to offer lifts to the public for payment.

experience a digital career The Digital Hub in Dublin 8 is continuing its Future Creators Programme in conjunction with TV3 to give young people a chance to experience what a digital career would be like.

The programme offers young people the opportunity to hone their digital media skills in one of Ireland’s leading media

environments.

The programme aims to equip young people (aged 13 to 16) from Dublin 8 with digital skills, including coding, app development, digital photography, filmmaking, and website development.

47% have not yet made a will A national survey, published by end of life planning provider Once I’ve Gone, looked at the public’s opinions towards wills, and revealed that 47% of respondents have not yet made a will.

The survey showed that apathy is the number one reason for not making a will with two thirds (66%) of those without a will, claiming that it was down to “not getting around to it”. 8% felt that they were still “too young to make a will”, while 3% did not want to think about dying. These opinions were voiced despite the fact that 92% of those taking part in the survey were aged between 36 and 65+ years of age with loved ones to provide for once they have gone.

For more information about the service visit www.onceivegone.com.

4 February 2016 Gazette 17

FEATURE charity: annual fundraising harbour2harbour event to support depression

Walking to help beat the blues

THOUSANDS are expected to turn out for the eleventh annual Aware Harbour2Harbour Walk from Dun Laoghaire to Howth, or Howth to Dun Laoghaire, on St Patrick’s Day. The aim of the event is to raise vital funds for Aware’s support, information and education services about depression and bipolar disorder, which are available throughout Dublin.

The Harbour2Harbour Walk is a fundraising event that raises approximately €40,000 for the organisation’s services each year. Participants can start at

Howth Harbour and walk to Dun Laoghaire Harbour, or start at Dun Laoghaire and walk to Howth.

The 16.2-mile route showcases the beauty of Dublin Bay and offers a great alternative to mark our national holiday. It’s a great way to spend time with friends or family, and is also ideal as a solo challenge.

The route starts in Dun Laoghaire at the Harbour Plaza behind Dun Laoghaire Dart Station, and at the Bloody Stream Pub in Howth.

The Dun Laoghaire BID company is organ-

ising a family fun day in the Harbour Plaza to coincide with the walk, with food stalls, music, children’s entertainment and fairground rides.

Dublin Port Company sponsors the event for the second time this year, and will provide a fun-filled halfway stop at Ber th 18, Dublin Port, close to the East Link toll bridge.

Aw a r e r e l i e s o n events like this as well as public and corporate donations for 85% of its annual funding. Participants are encouraged to raise sponsorship through online platforms such as just-

giving.com, and some supporters have walked this route many times for Aware over the past decade.

Aw a r e s e r v i c e s include support groups, support line, support mail, Beat the Blues programmes (28,000 students each year) , and free life skills programmes based on cognitive behavioural therapy for 3,000 people each year.

More information on all of Aware’s services and this fundraising event is at aware.ie. The Aware Harbour2Harbour Walk 2016 is supported by Dublin Port Company and 98FM.

Jane Clancy and Ingrid Trant taking part in last year’s Harbour2Harbour walk, in aid of Aware

Choccy treats at Nutgrove

NUTGROVE Shopping Centre in Rathfarnham is celebrating Valentine’s Day this year with special musical entertainment and delicious chocolate truffles for visitors.

From 12-3pm on Saturday, February 13, customers can enjoy the musical stylings of David Mooney, who will be bringing his jazz renditions of classic love songs to the food court to serenade shoppers and celebrate the season of love.

The Nutgrove promo guys and girls will also be on hand to share a Valentine’s classic – chocolates – with visitors as a thankyou for all the love shown to Nutgrove Shopping Centre over the past year.

Gazette

18 Gazette 4 February 2016

dublinlife

FEATURES

the money doctor: making a financial plan - part 1

Save this advice – it could make a huge difference  john lowe

A PRIEST once told his congregation he had good news and bad news.

“The good news,” he said, “is we have finally enough money to build our much needed community centre this year.

The bad news it’s still out there in your pockets !”

Completing a financial plan for any project is essential, let alone your own personal plan, and the first part of that task is to actually start it.

Here’s how to do it in just 15 minutes – in my humble view this is a must read ...

I used to be a dreadful worrier. (Stick with me on this, because it is rel-

evant.) I would lie awake at two in the morning asking myself where I had gone wrong, and a voice would answer back: “This is going to take more than one night.”

Then I had the good fortune to work with a successful entrepreneur who, for the purposes of this article, I shall call Peter, because that hap-

pens to be his name.

The thing I noticed straight away about Peter was that he had elevated list-making to an art form.

Before he wanted to achieve something important – start a business, raise millions of euro a year for charity, launch a takeover – he would prepare a list of all the different steps involved.

Anyway, as someone who has elevated plagiarism to an art form, I copied him and, although I cheat (I often write down things I have already done for the satisfaction of being able to cross them off), I have found that the simple process of listing has dealt a deathblow to my nocturnal fretting.

What does this have to do with the subject on the card? If more people realised that financial planning was nothing more than a bit of glorified list-making, they might be keener to take it on.

est possible return.

• Give you enough money to retire early.

• Protect you and your dependants against financial hardship.

• Offer you financial freedom.

• Make you wealthy enough to never have to worry about the future, whatever it may bring.

T hink I am overpromising or exaggerating? If anything, I am erring on the side of caution.

A good financial plan can make you invincible.

What a financial plan will do for you I’ll cut to the chase.

Financial plans are powerful amulets. This is what a good, well-executed financial plan could do for you: • Wipe out all your personal debts.

• Help you pay off your mortgage early.

• Make sure you never have to borrow again.

• Help you build up plenty of savings.

• Ensure that your money achieves the high-

Financial planning in a nutshell W hat exactly is a financial plan? Perhaps the easiest way to explain how they work is to use an analogy ...

If you were driving from Copenhagen to Zagreb – heaven knows why, but you are – and you don’t have one of those wizard satellite navigation systems, you would not choose a road at random and hope for the best, would you? No, you wouldn’t.

Making a financial plan probably seems daunting.

However, the Money Doctor – John Lowe (inset) – has lots of sound advice to help you along the way.

You would plan your journey. If you encountered diversions, you would get out the map and decide on a new route. Throughout the journey, you would check on your progress.

Your financial plan should have the same qualities. That is to say, it should help you reach your destination, make your journey as fast as possible and stop you from wasting time, energy and, of course, money.

Getting started: think holistically Most financial products are bought on a one-off basis. Suddenly, you need a mortgage or you fall into the clutches of a life insurance salesman and – bang – you are making major financial decisions before you have time to think.

The result is that you may not get the best product for your needs ... or the best value. Every major financial decision you make should be part of an overall plan.

Thus, a particular product – such as a mortgage, loan, insurance policy or investment – should be judged not just on its individual merits but also in terms of how it moves you closer to where you want to be.

Dream, dream, dream, dream, dream, dream The Everly Brothers had a point. Dreaming has a huge role to play in financial planning. Consider what you’d like to be doing in, say, five years, ten years and 20 years.

Consider what work (if any) you’ll be doing, where you’ll be living and how you’ll be spending your leisure time. What will your family situation be? What – and this is key – will your financial situation be?

Once you have a clear picture of the future life you’d like to have, you can start expressing it in financial terms and working out how to get there.

See Part 2 next week

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

Pets spencer is a playful pet who loves his toys and time with his carer The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week this week is Spencer – a male three-year-old playful pitbull cross who simply adores spending time with his carers.

He isn’t too keen on other dogs at the moment, so needs to be the only pet in the home, so he can have all of the attention for himself.

Spencer loves to play with his toys and will keep himself busy with them all day long.

Snuggle He’s a real creature of comforts and likes to snuggle into his soft, squishy bed.

If you’re looking for an active dog who excels in agility and other training, please contact Dogs Trust on 01-879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie.

You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.



Gazette

4 February 2016 Gazette 19

cuisine: annual three-day fair to once again highlight popular niche

Brewing up a lot of interest in craft drinks  ian begley

THE annual Alltech Craft Brews and Food Fair – Ireland’s largest craft beer festival – is back once again and is taking place in The National Convention Centre.

The three-day event will host the best of Irish and International craft breweries and distilleries, from Friday, February 5 to Sunday, February 7.

The 2016 fair will host more than 50 Irish and international breweries, cider producers, distilleries and craft brew distributors who will be sampling in excess of 300 craft brews from all across the world, including many seasonal and once-off brews created just for the event.

Last year, more than 10,000 people attended the event, which will also offer a selection of the best of Irish foods including cheeses, baked goods and hot food options, such as pies and crepes.

Conor Farrell, of Alltech’s Lexington Brewing & Distilling Company, said: “We are incredibly excited about this year’s event, which will show-

case the best of Irish and International craft brewers and distillers, allowing consumers to sample the range of brews being produced both in Ireland and overseas.

“The event also provides an opportunity for craft distributors and producers to network and share insights and innovations within this ever growing sector.”

Six Nations rugby will be aired on three of the biggest screens in Dublin throughout the weekend, and live musical acts will include the Camembert Quartet, DJ Aidan Kavanagh, Pump up the Jam, We Banjo 3 and Booka Brass Band.

Broadcaster and craft beer aficionado Rick O’Shea will entertain crowds attending Sunday’s fair with live interviews with exhibitors.

The day will also see the annual Craft Beer Grand Slam, which will warm up the crowd before the Ireland v Wales rugby clash, testing the taste buds of a team of Irish and Welsh fans.

The winners of the Dublin Craft Beer Cup competition will be

announced on the first day of the event by Dr Gearoid Cahill, European director of brewing science at Alltech.

This international competition was launched by Alltech in 2013 and allows craft brewers to showcase their beers and have them rated, tasted and analysed by an expert independent panel of beer judges.

Award-winning brewers receive prestigious gold, silver and bronze medals in eight different categories of beer and cider, establishing the best examples of each style.

At 2pm on Saturday, February 6, Alltech will attempt to break the current Guinness World Record for the Largest Beer Tasting at the event.

The current record of 714 people was set in Mexico in November, 2014. To set a new record, a gathering larger than this need to taste a minimum of three beers in the same room.

Tickets are available from www.tickets.ie and can be purchased from €15. For further information, see eu.alltechbrewsandfood. com.

Broadcaster Rick O’Shea and Conor Farrell, European sales manager, Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co, announcing the upcoming Alltech Craft Brews and Food Fair

Gazette

20 Gazette 4 February 2016

OUT&ABOUT New Look Dress €29.99

Pandora Interlocking heart bracelet €179

The Nuxuriance Ultra range, from Nuxe

 emma nolan

€120

ANTI-AGING skin care brand Nuxe has introduced its innovative new botanical formulation, Nuxuriance Ultra, to Arnotts this month and will roll the range out nationwide from February 20.

The French company’s first line of global anti-aging replenishing skincare is formulated on the basis of millions o f n e w- g e n e r a t i o n botanical cells from the saffron and bougainvillea bi-floral cell, which contain active molecules to create an extra-effective, targeted and continuous anti-aging action.

Studies carried out on more than 300 women revealed global anti-aging efficacy on all signs of skin aging, including a reduction in the number of wrinkles (even deep wrinkles), denser skin, enhanced radiance, along with seeing the oval of the face reshaped and lifted facial features.

The Nuxuriance Ultra range consists, firstly, of a replenishing serum containing crocus extract, which evens out the complexion.

There are two daytime moisturiser options for different skin types. For normal to combination skin, the fluid cream –

which contains sebum trapping ingredients – promises to mattify oily patches and makes pores appear smaller.

T he rich texture cream contains meadowfoam oil and organic poppy petal extract to nourish dry patches and aid cell nutrition.

The Night Magic moisturiser contains prickly pear extract, which stimulates the skin’s desquamation enzymes to create a rested appearance.

The collection also contains an eye and lip contour serum which targets wrinkles, slackening skin, dark spots, puffiness and dark circles.

Some 80% of women who tested this product found that the skin around their eyes appeared energised after use.

The final product is a re-plumping roll-on mask which resulted in firmer facial skin on 81% of women tested.

Thanks to maca root extract and the novel ultra-cool metal massaging applicator (which helps to create a stimulating and draining effect), this strengthens the formula’s action on skin radiance.

Nuxe’s products contain a selection of natural active, paraben-free ingredients, without mineral oils or animal origin ingredients.

New Look Skirt €14.99

t on Skir Monso

Nuxe ready to introduce its botanically-formulated Nuxuriance Ultra range

LOVE PINK WITH St Valentine’s Day just around the corner, now’s the time to get the colours just right in your latest look, and to drop some subtle (or not so subtle) visual hints that love is in the air ... and you might like some extra, well-deserved attention from your other half!

However, even if you’re not dressing up to get in the mood for February

14, pink is a wonderful, fresh colour to banish the freezing February winds, and to help brighten up and lighten up your spring wardrobe.

With pink jumping into many big name labels (see box, right), here are some simmilar high street designs that won’t break your (credit card’s) heart.

Next Coat €82

Accessorize Wallet €6

Littlewoods Ireland Bag €56

4 February 2016 Gazette 21

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Yours for a pretty pink penny AS ALWAYS, one turns to Brown Thomas for some of the top designer threads and on-trend label launches.

While the high street mir-

rors and mimics some of the latest looks from international designers, there’s just nothing like the original – and, while these items from a number

of high-end labels will set you back more than a pretty penny or two, we think you’ll agree that they’re more than worth it!

Littlewoods Ireland Skirt €48

Roksanda Rylett Short Sleeve Dress €1,295

Victoria Beckham Twisted shoulder drape midi dress €1,995

Roland Mouret Ivy wool crepe dress €1,535

Lanvin Single shoulder beaded tassel dress €995

Gazette

STYLE

Gazette

22 Gazette 4 February 2016

R1

OUT&ABOUT

TRAVEL

See for yourself why Hayfield Manor attracts couples to Cork from all across the country, with a great Valentine’s package

With luxurious rooms like the Bartra suite at the Ice Hotel, Ballina, Valentine’s Day couples won’t want to leave their home from home

february 14: lots of great getaways across the country

You’ll both love these St Valentine’s Day breaks  ian begley

WITH the festive season behind us, Valentine’s Day is on the horizon and this year there are a bounty of romantic getaways for lovers who need a well-deserved break.

Rathmullan Hotel in Co Donegal is offering a Valentine’s escape for €230pp from February 13 – 16.

Enjoy morning strolls on the beach, an afternoon seat by a roaring open fire, a classic love story from the comfort of your bed in late afternoon and a long bubble bath soak after dinner.

This package includes two nights bed and breakfast with a romantic evening meal in the Cook & Gardener restaurant, with a movie each evening, and staying in a standard room.

Before dinner each evening, find popcorn and a sweet romantic treat in your bedroom, and spend two hours in the company of Ingrid Bergman, Humphrey Bogart and other stars of the big screen.

At the other end of the country, Ballymaloe House in Cork is also offering a romantic two night getaway from February 12 – 15, for €260pp.

You will be welcomed with a glass of pink bubbly, and during your stay take a romantic stroll through the extensive 300-acre farm and gardens.

Relax by the fire in the drawing room or enjoy afternoon tea in the house’s conservatory.

Enjoy an intimate dinner for two in the Ballymaloe restaurant, romantically decorated with red

tulips.

Over in Wexford, love is a long, lazy lie-in at Dunbrody House, who are offering their very own “Love Is” package.

From €290pps, you will

with pre-dinner canapes and cocktails.

Spoil the one you love this Valentine’s Day with a one-night stay in luxurious Castle Leslie Estate, Co Monaghan.

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

‘Treat your sweetheart this lover’s weekend by taking a stroll through Longueville House’s walled gardens, cosy up by the roaring open fire, enjoy a drink or two and a three-course meal in the award-winning restaurant --------------------------------------------------------

get midweek accommodation throughout February in one of Dunbrody’s luxury rooms or suites.

Guests will also avail of the dinner-for-two menu from the Harvest Room, which includes a fivecourse seasonal menu

For €320pps, you can enjoy one night’s accommodation with a romantic candlelit dinner, along with a glass of bubbly in Snaffles restaurant.

Chocolates and a single red rose will await you in your bedroom, followed

by a fabulous full Irish breakfast the following morning. This offer is valid until February 25.

Steal away with your loved one for a romantic one-night stay in Longueville House, Co Cork this Valentine’s Day, from €169pps.

Treat your sweetheart this lover’s weekend by taking a stroll through Longueville’s walled gardens, cosy up by the roaring open fire, enjoy a drink or two and a three-course meal in the house’s award-winning restaurant, and enjoy a lazy lie-in the next morning.

This offer is valid from February 12 – 14, and includes a bottle of bubbly and chocolates in your room on arrival, dinner for two, and complementary late check out the next morning.

Welcoming Wexford invites you to Dunbrody House, where its ‘Love Is’ package offers plenty to give lovers a well-deserved break from city stresses

Castle Leslie Estate in Co Monaghan successfully marries old-world touches with modern luxuries, making a stay at its historic setting certain to delight

At Hayfield Manor, Cork, you can treat your better-half to one night of luxurious accommodation in a manor room, where you can enjoy a gourmet dinner in the romantic ambiance of either Orchids Gourmet restaurant, or Perrotts Garden Bistro.

On the morning of your departure, enjoy Hayfield Manor’s famous full Irish breakfast. This offer is valid from February 11 – 17, and is priced from €258pps.

Couples can also avail of a heart-to-heart one night break at the Ice House, Ballina, Co Mayo,

from €240 per night.

From February 11 – 14, enjoy a one-night stay in a luxurious river view room, and bubbles on ice in your room on arrival, along with a chocolate treat.

Your stay is complete with a themed table d’hote dinner in the Ice House’s restaurant.

Enjoy unlimited access to the Chill Spa thermal area throughout your stay and you can have a lazy breakfast the following morning.

For further information on all of these offers, see www.irelandsbluebook. com.

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4 February 2016 Gazette 23

SALE EXTENDED TO NEXT SUNDAY 7TH FEB

Gazette

24 Gazette 4 February 2016

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

ReelReviews

room

Well worth venturing into CRITICS around the world have been falling over themselves to praise The Room (Cert 15A, 118 mins), and it’s not hard to see why, thanks to the mesmerising performances at the heart of the film. A woman lives with her young son in a single room where they’re both being held captive by a man. She hatches a daring escape plan, so that her son can see the outside world for the first time ...

the 5th wave

Makes a bit of a splash ANOTHER film in the burgeoning ‘young adult’ genre, The 5th Wave (Cert 12A, 112 mins) sees likeable lead Chloe Grace Moretz star in the latest apocalyptic tale where only a plucky teenager can win the day. When aliens invade, unleashing waves of attack designed to exterminate us pesky humans, a young woman gets caught up in the fight back. Deftly told, and daftly entertaining.

dirty grandpa

Simply a mess to avoid HERE’S another truly terrible film for Robert de Niro to besmirch his legacy with. Here, he teams up with cinema albatross Zac Effron for Dirty Grandpa (Cert 18, 102 mins), which delivers exactly what the title suggests: a young man is confronted with his grandfater’s grubby, sleazy side on a long road trip together. Can they bond on the trip? Can you last to the end of the film?

Michael Keaton and Mark Ruffalo are among the leads fleshing out Spotlight, which largely follows a newspaper team’s efforts to report on corruption and child abuse

spotlight: A church sex abuse scandal is meticulously unravelled

Reveals disturbing darkness BASED on the Boston Globe’s early 2000s uncovering of Catholic Church sex abuse scandals, Spotlight (Cert 15A, 129 mins) is a sobering, enlightening, and fundamentally important film.

Given the difficult subject matter, Spotlight seems oddly out of place when placed next to The Martian, and Mad Max: Fury Road, on the Oscar nomination lists but, if anything, it goes to highlight some of the diversity that is creeping into the awards ceremony (though, as director Spike Lee pointed out last week, the academy is not quite there yet).

Named after the “Spotlight” investigative team at the newspaper, the film follows the behind-the-scenes work-

 Dave phillips

ings that led to a series of reports that exposed massive corruption in the Boston archdiocese, and beyond.

It is a harrowing story that we are all unfortunately familiar with from similar exposes in Ireland and around the world – a story that tells of that recognisable pattern of victims cowed into silence, priests moved on to new parishes, and the church as an organisation trying to save face at all costs.

And, while the focus remains for the most

par t on the church, Spotlight is really a film about the darker side of institutions – religious or secular – and how it takes someone from the inside to break the circle of silence which allows such corruption to occur systemically.

The “insiders” in this case are the Boston journalists who can sense the importance of uncovering the truth, while also being aware of the devastation within their community that will follow in the wake of their reports.

Set mainly in the bustling newsrooms of the Globe, Spotlight features an impressive ensemble cast including Michael Keaton, Mark Ruffalo, Rachel McAdams, and Liev Schreiber.

Schreiber plays

Marty Baron, the newly appointed editor, who is enough of an outsider to let the Spotlight team loose on the topic.

Chief among these is Walter “Robby” Robinson (Keaton) who, as a Boston local, is fully aware of the domino effect of blame – implicating everyone from school officials to lawyers – that come as part and parcel of pursuing the story.

“This is how it starts” Keaton’s characters says to a prominent local official who is pushing him to not run with it; “one guy leans on another guy, and soon everyone ends up turning a blind eye”.

There is an air of truth in the statement, which runs through the entire film. Spotlight feels

authentic in part because of the huge effort made to mirror the real journalists’ personalities with the characters presented on screen.

Nothing here seems overly scripted or filmic; instead, we get a genuine feel for the anguish of the voiceless victims, the vastness of the implications of the exposure, and the sheer ardour of the investigative work.

It is, in its tone and setting, reminiscent of the newsroom storyline of the final season of HBO’s The Wire (which, fittingly, director and writer Tom McCarthy starred in).

And, as in The Wire, the audience feels dropped into the deep end of a real, fast-paced world replete with its own jargon and rules of

engagement.

Spotlight is the kind of film that immediately forces you to sit forward and pay attention because it smacks of something that feels authentic and significant.

There is simply not enough space to do justice to Spotlight – a film that is crammed full of strong and memorable performances (Ruffalo and McAdams are nominated for Best Supporting Oscars), and which never once flags during its two hours of screen time, and which imbues such a powerful and important message.

This is how stories should be told, and this is how films should be made.

Verdict: 10/10

4 February 2016 Gazette 25

26 dundrum gazette 4 February 2016

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DĂšN LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

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We Doireann & Guillaume Dony intend to apply for planning permission for development at 48 Carrickmount Drive, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14.

The development will consist of demolishing part of existing storage shed and constructing a part single storey, part 2 storey extension to the rear of existing dwelling, removal of existing boundary hedgerow between house no. 48 & 50 and replacing it with a concrete block wall, constructing a single storey porch to the front, alterations to existing driveway & entrance to facilitate a car parking space, and all ancillary site works.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased for a fee not exceeding a reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority, Marine Road, DĂşn Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, during its public opening hours of Monday to Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority, on payment of a fee of â‚Ź20 within 5 weeks of receipt of the application by the Planning Authority and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

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planning Notice DĂšN LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

Dun Laoighre Rathdown Co.Co, I Lawrence Byrne am applying for planning retention for a two storey pitched roof extension to the front of No. 23 Woodbine Terrace, off Dundrum Road, Dublin 14.

The application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its’ public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council – Planning permission is sought by Calerotech Ltd on lands at and adjoining the Golden Ball Public House, Enniskerry Road, Kilternan, Dublin 18 for a mixed-use residential and commercial development. The proposed development will consist of: Partial demolition of the existing Golden Tavern Public House (764 sq.m. of the existing floor space to be removed and 196 sq.m. floor space to be retained along with retention of part of the front façade) an extension of 378 sq.m. to the ground and first floor level; change of use of first floor level to office use.

The reconfiguration will provide a total floor area of 596.7 sq.m. (292.7 sq.m. public house and 304 sq.m. of office use). Permission is also sought for the provision of 39 no. residential units (comprising: 2 no. 4 bedroom 3 storey detached dwellings, 18 no. 4 bedroom 3 storey semi-detached dwellings; 6 no. 1 bedroom ground floor apartments with 6 no. 2 bedroom 2 storey duplex units above with first floor terrace to their rear elevation; 7 no.3 bedroom 2 storey duplex units with balcony/terrace to their rear elevation above 7 no. ground floor level retail units (444 sq.m. total gfa); Upgrading and realignment of the existing vehicular entrance to Enniskerry Road, provision of new internal road and provision of future connection to lands to the north, 96 no. car parking spaces (28 no. spaces for public house and offices, 18 no. retail spaces and 50 no. residential spaces), and all ancillary landscaping, boundary treatment, engineering and site development works. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (â‚Ź20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application.

26067

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planning Notice

planning Notice

DĂšN LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

DĂšN LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

Retention Planning Permission is being sought

by Liam & Therese Hennessey for the demolition of former boundary wall and retention of the existing replacement boundary wall, entrance gate, pillars and associated changes to driveway all at 28 The Thicket, Hainault Road, Foxrock, Dublin 18. This Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Dun Laoghaire during its public opening hours. A submission/ observation in relation to this application may be made on payment of â‚Ź20.00 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the Planning Authority.

DĂšN LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

DĂšN LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission and Retention Permission is sought at “Lismore�, 4 Wynnsward Drive, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14 by Teresa LeGear Keane.

Retention Permission is sought for the single storey extension to the front enclosing an original porch area. Planning Permission is sought for the provision of a new vehicular entrance and new gates, a dormer window to the rear roof, the provision of a rooflight to the front roof and all ancillary site works, all at the existing two storey dwelling The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Dun Laoghaire, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation may be made on payment of â‚Ź20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the planning authority.

Dun Laoghaire - Rathdown County Council: Planning Permission sought for proposed alterations incl. provision of first floor extension with bay windows to front, over extended single storey structure at western gable, new porch to front, bay window at eastern gable, attic conversion for storage and study purposes with 4 no. vellux windows to rear and 2 no. to front along with window on each gable, all at 22 Orby Drive, The Gallops, Leopardstown, Dublin 18 for Maoiliosa & Yvonne O Dubhthaigh. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Dun Laoghaire during its public opening hours. A submission / observation may be made on payment of â‚Ź20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the Planning Authority.

DUN LAOGHAIRERATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL. Further Information. Stuart Pennefather, Elaine Pennefather has applied for permission for a single storey extension to the rear of existing dwelling for dining/sitting room of 15.7sqm gross and to the side of existing dwelling for utility room of 12.1sqm gross. 12 Sandyford Hall Park, Sandyford, Dublin 18. In this regard note that Significant Further Information has been furnished to the Planning Authority and is available for inspection or purchase at the offices of the Planning Authority at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, during its public opening hours, and that a submission or observation in relation to the Further Information may be made to the Authority in writing and on payment of the precribed fee (â‚Ź20.00) within 2 weeks of the date of receipt of the newspaper notice (within 5 weeks in the case of an application accompanied by E.I.S) by the Authority and no further fee is required where a valid submission or observation has already been made in respect of this planning application.

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28 gazette 4 February 2016

SPORT

FastSport Mercy pipped at post in U-18 National cup: DCU Mercy missed out on the Hula Hoops Under-18 women’s National Cup title to SuperValu Brunell 72-69 after over-time.

The first half was truly a shooting showcase at either end and as Alex Macheta continued to be a thorn in DCU Mercy’s side, it was the introduction of Aoife Maguire for Mercy that proved to be crucial, as she helped drive the Dublin side to a 32-31 point lead at the break.

The second half was nail-biting, as Amy Murphy and Laura Morrissey helped put Brunell back into the lead, but determined play from Anna Brennan and Elizabeth Black kept the game neck-and-neck.

The teams were level on six separate occasions to see the game tied on 61-apiece on the final buzzer.

In over-time, it was Alex Macheta who was Brunell’s inspiration to nick a dramatic victory.

basketball: southsiders prevail in thrilling endgame over Swords

Temple of glory for Keenan men’s national cup Templeogue GCD Swords Thunder  sport@dublingazette.com

78 75

TEMPLEOGUE beat GCD Swords Thunder to claim their first Hula Hoops Men’s National

Cup Trophy with a 78-75 win at the National Basketball Arena.

It was a maiden final appearance for both sides, but a classic decider. The lead swung four times before Thunder missed a three-pointer on the

MVP Michael Bonaparte takes on Dan Nelms

final buzzer to send the Templeogue faithful into rapture.

“The way we came out in the third quarter and did our best to lose it in the fourth, it’s a special night,” said Templeogue Coach Mark Keenan with a fourth Cup medal around his neck. “You see the spirit within the group. We always believe we can do it.”

It was an adrenaline fuelled opening quarter. Michael Bonaparte showed no ill effects of the injury that prompted rumours of an American recruit being parachuted into the Templeogue lineup.

Sean Flood was the early scorer though. Having shot at just 13% in the semi-final, the 19 year old

Templeogue celebrate their National Cup success. Picture: Cathal Noonan/Inpho

landed three from four triples as Templeogue led 24-16 after 10 minutes.

From Swords Thunder’s American quartet, it was Dan Nelms who got the nod to start. The Davidson alumnus set about neutralising Jason Killeen on the offensive boards, before Mike Garrow added more penetration into the mix. Then Thunder took over altogether.

The second quarter was a write off for Templeogue, managing just four points and turning the ball over six times.

Isaac Westbrooks upped his steal count and Alex Dolenko contributed a pair of three-pointers to a 10-0 run for a 39-28 lead at the break.

Ex-Ireland International Paul Cummins was

heating up in the second quarter of his first game in 11 weeks. His outside shooting topped up second chance scores from Michael Bonaparte to level the sides at 49-49 late in the third. Stephen James followed up with a couple of downtown three-pointers and it took Westbrooks to snap a 13-0 run with the last shot of the third.

Leading 57-51 with ten minutes left gave no cause for comfort. Michael Bonaparte did. A threepoint play and a massive block on Sergi Guardia gave them their first double-digit lead.

Thunder hadn’t clapped out just yet. Alex Dolenko finished defiantly off his own steal and Dan Nelms’ dunk edged them

closer and a Westbrooks jump-shot brought it back to 67-70 with 90 seconds left.

Jason Killeen completed a double-double with his most precious rebound of the evening to prevent Thunder from an equalising opportunity.

Fouled in the process, they also iced the freethrows at the other end.

There were just 22 seconds and it was the first time the crowd felt they were looking at champions.

It was of no consolation to GCD Swords Thunder Head Coach Dave Baker that he was part of a thriller. It was a spectacle, but obviously we’re disappointed. We’re proud to have come so far and we can enjoy that much.”

Killester burned by Team Montenotte in women’s final  sport@dublingazette.com

Claire Rockall scores a basket despite the efforts of Killester’s Ali Maguire. Picture: Cathal Noonan/Inpho

PYROBEL Killester found Team Montenotte Hotel too hot to handle in the women’s Hula Hoops National Cup final last Sunday at the National Basketball Arena, falling 96-64 in a one-sided affair.

Killester had lost none of the grace or steel that has seen them fight for silverware on two fronts this season. They were simply overpowered by a side peaking when it mattered most.

Aine McKenna was the big

gun and revelled in her captain’s role. The MVP had 10 points in four minutes and the Glanmire club still had time for a 12-0 run, becoming just the second side of the national cup weekend to hit a 30-point quarter.

Killester coach Karl Kilbride gave his bench the opportunity to get to grips and put three Under-20 women’s cup champions on the floor from earlier in the weekend.

Aoibheann Byrne and Aisling McCann rewarded his faith with baskets as Killester managed a considerable 20-point quarter.

The only problem was that Glanmire repeated their first quarter trick and put up another 31 points.

One by one they stepped up to hit their shots. Marie Breen hit a pair and Chantell Alford refused to miss.

They’d hit the half-century in 17 minutes of basketball, shooting at 67% on both sides of the three-point line.

When the sides met in the 2015 decider, Team Montenotte Hotel won 62-36 on the back of a one-point lead at half time.

This time around, they were

already 62-34 clear at the break.

In 32 years of national cup basketball, only two women’s clubs have scored 80 points or more in 40 minutes.

I n 19 91, B l a r n e y b e a t Snowcream Wildcats 86-56 and were back at the Arena as part of their 25 year jubilee celebrations.

Glanmire’s first National Cup win was courtesy of an 89-75 win over UL Aughinish. Marie Breen scored 29 points that day in 2007 and had a double-double in 2016.

4 February 2016 gazette 29

Gazette

Humble Brandon’s family inspiration Former Moyle Park College and Lucan United man Brandon Payne says family roots are keeping him grounded as he looks to make the leap forward with Glasgow Celtic in 2016  adam doherty

sport@dublingazette.com

MOST young talents, when asked, would point to the greats like Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo as their main source of inspiration.

For former Moyle Park College and Lucan United man Brandon Payne, his inspiration comes from much closer to home. He cites his uncle Philip Sheppard – a former St Pat’s, Shamrock Rovers and Cherry Orchard striker – as the key motivator in his footballing career.

It is indicative of his humble approach – saying he is just a “normal lad from Bawnogue” – and the importance of family to Payne who is making waves since his move to Glasgow Celtic.

The 18-year-old says he is living the profes-

sional footballers dream at the moment, saying it is something he was: “just brought into as soon as I could basically play!

“Growing up, my idol was my uncle [Sheppard], he played and brought me into football so he was someone who I looked up to as a kid.”

Indeed, family is especially important to him, saying the struggles of being away from his family and, especially, his younger brother Jordan being the hardest part.

“It is tough being away from the family, I only get to come home every so often.

“I have grown up with Jordan; he is a good person and a great footballer so hopefully he can push on and do well for himself, but I do keep in touch with him daily through Facetime”.

Payne’s career started with Ashwood before moving on to Lucan where he linked up with an incredibly productive side, one which has seen Irish underage international team mates Conor Masterson signed up

by Liverpool and Sean Whelan moving to Preston.

At Lucan, he rapidly rose to earn an Under15 call-up for Ireland but suffered a careerthreatening injury when he broke his leg against Dundalk.

“The injury was horrible, I was out for about a year so it took me ages to get back fit and I thought I wouldn’t be able to play again.”

Nonetheless, he worked his way through many doctor and physio sessions and came back to his best to get his first deal in January 2014 with

Brandon Payne in Lucan United action. Picture: Stephen Findlater

Glasgow Celtic.

It saw him follow in the footsteps of Roy Keane, a player very much in his mould as a combative midfielder with a keen relish for the tackle allied to an eye for a pass.

When part of the Irish underage set-up, the FAI

its after my injury; he did not have to meet and speak to me but he did so I was really grateful he did.”

When asked about the lifestyle and adapting to the life as a full-time footballer, Payne says he is certainly in his element.

“The lifestyle is unbeliev-

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

“Many people said [Roy Keane] would be scary but he told me straight out what I need to do” - Brandon Payne --------------------------------------------------------

arranged for Payne to meet Keane in Malahide.

Keane spoke to him about his experience of being rejected so many times as a youth and this provided much motivation for the youth.

This talk rung true for Payne in the wake of his injury issues that set him back. The motivational effect was immediate and he scored in a match later that evening.

When speaking about this experience of meeting Keane, Payne said: “He was unbelievable; many people said he would be scary, but he was real down to earth and he was straight out by telling me what I needed to do to make it.

“He won’t tell you lies, he really is an idol to so many people and he is also a great person to talk to. It lifted my spir-

able, but you cannot get too carried away with it.

“Adapting to it is obviously tough but, at the end of the day, you are getting paid so you cannot complain or give out too much.”

Speaking of his time at Celtic, Payne has endured a couple of injuries but has been a regular for their development side in the 2015-16 season to date and is back with the Republic of Ireland Under-19 side, lining out against Hungary and Croatia.

Speaking of his goals for the future, Payne adds: “I aim to push on and make a good living, so hopefully I don’t have to come back to Ireland and work!

“In five to ten years, I feel I will still be playing football or will definitely still be involved with it.”

FastSport

Smith steps away after stellar Irish amateur stint GERRY Smith has announced his decision to step down from his role as Republic of Ireland amateur international team manager.

Smith has opted to stand down after 20 years in the role following the fantastic high of leading the Eastern Region to the UEFA Regions Cup title last summer.

The Dubliner previously led the Irish representatives to the UEFA Regions Cup Final in 2011 when they were beaten by hosts Braga from Portugal.

Smith, 60, also managed the Republic of Ireland at the World Under-20 championships finals in the UAE in 2003. He also worked with Brian Kerr in a scouting and analysis role at the successful 1998 Under-18 UEFA championships finals in Cyprus.

His time with the junior international side included winning the Quadrangular tournament four times and securing runners-up places six times. Smith and his squad also won the Davie Pocock Cup twice against the Netherlands.

Smith’s 35 games as manager in the UEFA Regions Cup saw his Irish representatives qualify for final tournaments five times. His Irish side’s last 10 competitive games were all victories.

“I feel the time is right for me to step down from the role having reached the pinnacle by winning the UEFA Regions Cup in 2015,” said Smith.

“I have enjoyed the job immensely and wish to extend my sincere appreciation and gratitude to the secretary Denis Cruise, the committee, council members and all past Presidents for the help and cooperation in making my job that much easier over the years.

“I would also like to place on record my thanks to all my own backroom staff and all the players who have played under me as a manager over the years. I have made great friends and will be eternally grateful to the FAI for the opportunity to manage such a great group of people.

“It is my intention to stay involved in football in the future but for now I’ll be recharging the batteries. So for the next weeks and months I’ll be at games and trying to enjoy them in a different way.

We got out on a high and that’s all you can ask for.”

Gazette

30 DUNDRUM gazette 4 February 2016

SPORT

FastSport Dundrum club’s medal haul: DSDAC picked up medals of all hues in top class competitions over the weekend with Grace O’Rourke setting the ball rolling with a magnificent second place with a 1.70m high jump at the Scottish indoor championships.

At the national Under-20 and Under23 indoor championships in Athlone, the club had a brace of silver medals from Mollie O’Reilly in the 400m (57.01) – an indoor personal best – while Rick Nally took silver in the Under-23 1,500m.

rugby: derby victory lifts ballinteer old boys up to fourth place in table

Wesley end run with Rock win ubl division 1b

Blackrock College Old Wesley  sport@dublingazette.com

10 28

OLD WESLEY got back to winning ways in UBL Division 1B with a 28 -10 bonus point win over Blackrock in a local derby at Stradbrook Road.

A f ter Dave ScottLennon’s early penalty for the hosts, it was Old Wesley who were first to cross the whitewash.

From a lineout just inside the opposition 22,

Iain McGann barged his way to the line, shrugging off two tacklers in the process. James Nolan missed the tricky conversion into the wind but made up for it shortly after with a penalty goal from 30 metres out.

Scott-Lennon had two fur ther penalty goal attempts but was wide with the relatively straightforward kicks to limit Blackrock’s chances of closing the gap.

The Old Wesley scrum, meanwhile, was starting to show its dominance

with hooker Dave Rowley taking two against the head.

Rock were next on the scoreboard with a try by Mikey Russell following a mix up in the Wesley defence. Scott-Lennon converted to give Blackrock a 10-8 lead.

T he response was swift, however. Pressure eventually paid off when the ball was swung out wide to Rory Stynes who took a good pass from Billy Ngwini to score in the corner.

Then, just before half

Wesley try scorer Iain McGann being chased by Owen Cullen. Picture: Ken Richardson

time Blackrock were reduced to 14 players when scrum half Dave Moore was shown yellow for an off the ball incident.

Now, playing with the wind, Wesley started the second half where they left off and after just five minutes, Stynes was over again, this time following some good passes from Daren Horan and

Ger Finucane.

Ngwini was involved again soon after when he beat a defender and passed to Paul Harte.

Har te showed great pace sprinting 30 metres dow n the touchline before passing to Alan Large who crossed untouched for the bonus point try.

Substitute Barry McLaughlin converted

and at 25-10 and even with 20 minutes to go it was clear there was no way back for the Stradbrook men.

McLaughlin struck again with a penalty kick and the opposition had run out of ideas.

Even a late yellow card for Josh Hinde for a ruck infringement could not be capitalised on by Blackrock.

4 February 2016 DUNDRUM gazette 31

Gazette

going the distance Fox fires St Benildus into first ever Leinster final

Club Noticeboard Ballyboden St enda’s THERE was no winner of this week’s

andrew Fox’s late goal saw St Benildus

eventually overcome Scoil Mhuire, Clane, to reach the Leinster Colleges A final for the first time thanks to a 1-12 to 0-13 extratime win at St Clonleth’s Park.

It came in the second period of extra time. The sides had drawn their first meeting in Darver. Benildus College will face Marist College in the final.

they compete against Clonmel Com-

3, 14, 17.

mercials in O’Moore Park on Saturday,

The match first three winners were

Picture: Steven Dagg

challenge matches: glenalbyn hosts annual ties

port for our senior football team when

jackpot, The numbers drawn were 2,

February 13.

Owen Keating C/O BBSE, Eugene Quinn,

The coaches will leave the club at

Templeroan Drive, St Mary’s Boys

2.30pm. It will be €10 per adult and

School, Grange Road.

€5 for juveniles (16 years of age and

Please support our own Boden

under). As we expect a large number

session musicians who are staging a

of our club members to make this trip,

fundraising concert in the clubhouse

could you please book your place now

hall on Friday at 8pm. All proceeds go

by texting 087 133 2308.

to the Alzheimer’s Unit in Bloomfield,

For more information on Ballyboden

Stocking Lane. Tickets at the door are

St Enda’s, log onto www.bodengaa.ie ,

€10 each.

follow us on twitter or Facebook by

We are anticipating massive sup-

searching Bodengaa.

naomh olaf

The Dub Stars hurlers with young Kilmacud Crokes fans last Sunday. Picture: Diarmuid O’Gallchobhair

Stars finally come out for Crokes test

 james hendicott sport@dublingazette.com

KILMACUD CROKES hurling captain Sean McGrath’s nine points proved the difference at his home ground of Glenalbyn, with the boys in blue overcoming the Stars team in the annual Dub Stars match up, despite conceding a glut of goals.

He was one of the top men on display in front of a big crowd in Stillorgan with plenty of youngsters enjoying the occasion despite the cold conditions.

The tie came less than

a day after the Dublin senior hurlers won the Walsh Cup and the footballers opened their league campaign with a win over Kerry.

As such, there were a large number of changes from the initial squads named for the challenge match that pits the Stars of the 2015 Dublin senior football and hurling championships against the Dublin senior panel.

Nonetheless, they played out a high-scoring affair. Dublin’s hurlers went in with a convincing looking lead of 2-10 to 0-9, with Sean Reilly and Round Tower

man Eric Finn notching the goals.

The Stars all but gave up on points in the second half, however, getting their reward with no fewer than five goals.

T he boys in blue, meanwhile, stuck to keeping the scoreboard ticking over with points.

Lucan Sarsfields Kevin O’Reilly was particularly effective, knocking in two, including a quality waistheight free that beat half the Dublin team on the line.

The ambitious attacking play couldn’t quite reel in McGrath’s con-

sistent free taking, however, with the county side running out 2-24 to 5-12 winners in a frantically entertaining encounter.

On the football side, the Stars, following a late goal from St Patrick’s Donabate man Niall Collins, were in pole position.

But a late leveller from an equally changed county side saw the tie finish Dublin 2-14, Dub Stars 1-17 with Stars middle man Craig Dias the outstanding player in running a smooth, fluid midfield from the challengers.

WELL done to David Byrne on a solid

Naomh Olaf’s U-16 football team

performance at left corner back for

got their season off the flying start

the Dublin senior team against Kerry

with a 5-10 to 2-9 win away to St Mar-

in Croke Park on Saturday night in the

garet’s, Kilreesk on a cold Saturday

Allianz Football League.

afternoon.

The adult awards ceremony took

The foundation for this win was

place in the club on Friday night with

earned in the first half where the

a huge crowd attending. Chairman

U-16 lads went in 4-9 to 1-2, courtesy

Anthony Delaney presented winning

of all round good play and Andrew

medals to the Under-21 footballers,

Blackwood’s particular contribution

senior camogie and senior ladies foot-

of three goals.

ball teams and minor camogie teams.

In the second half, St Margaret’s

The following players received

came back into it but another goal

the prestigious player of the year

from Adam Byrne adding to his tally

awards: senior football – Mar Doyle;

of 2-3 from midfield finished the con-

senior ladies football – Eleanor Lucey;

test.

senior hurling – Paul Lynch; senior

In what was a good team perform-

camogie – Eilis Murphy; junior hurling

ance in all positions, Gavin Sora-

– Hugh Ruane; junior football – Ronan

ghan, Ciaran Foley, Dylan Brown in

Burke; U-21 football – David Byrne;

attack and Cormac Tobin and Fiachra

minor camogie – Ellen Brien; minor

McLoughlin in defence stood out par-

hurling – Tom McGuirk; minor football

ticularly.

– Aaron Walsh and Cian Power Kelly;

The U-16s have their next home

U-16 football – Luke Doran and Ronan

game against Erin’s Isle at home next

Waters. Congratulations to all our

Saturday at 2pm where they hope to

winners.

build on this performance.

kilmacud crokes GREAT day in the club on Sunday,

cise programs including – pilates,

January 31 when the rescheduled

couch to 5km, circuit training, yoga,

Dub Stars games took place. A good

and cycling.

crowd attended even though the

Concussion awareness for young

Dublin hurlers and footballers had

players workshop with Dr Pat Dug-

played the night before in Croke Park,

gan and Rory O’Carroll is on Thurs-

and they were not disappointed.

day, February 4 at 8pm. All mentors

Well done to all involved in the organisation. For the record, results

and managers from all codes are invited.

were - Dub Stars 5-11 Dublin 2-24

2016 Mizen to Malin event is hap-

(hurling) and Dubs Stars 1-17 to Dub-

pening at the beginning of June this

lin 2-14 (football).

year. It is anticipated that 60 cyclists

Our Under-15 and Under-16 footballers got their league campaigns off with wins for both the A and B squads in both age groups.

will take part and the target for fundraising is €100,000.

The event is raising funds for Breast Cancer Ireland and our club

Our kick-start Kilmacud Crokes

development plan. Launch night for

program is going strong with mem-

the cycle will be Friday, February 5 in

bers taking part in a number of exer-

the club. All are welcome to attend.

GazetteSPORT all of your dundrum sports coverage from page 28-31

Wesley rocking: Bonus point win brings end to losing streak with brilliant soutside derby result P30

febuary 4-10, 2016

pursuing the celtic dream: Brandon Payne on his rising career with Glasgow club P29

Ballyboden St Enda’s celebrating their maiden Leinster senior football championship success.

McDaid fresh for battle Ballyboden St Enda’s man says balanced Christmas break has side in flying form for All-Ireland semi-final date with Clonmel Commercials

 stephen findlater

sport@dublingazette.com

ROBBIE McDaid reckons he played a key role in attracting Paul Durcan to Ballyboden St Enda’s, bringing in a crucial figure to the club for their run to a maiden Leinster senior football championship title.

“I wasn’t letting him move anywhere else!”

McDaid told GazetteSport about his cousin, the Donegal All-Star goalkeeper, who linked up with Boden last April ahead of their epic 2015.

With Durcan married and based in Dublin at the time before taking up a contract in Qatar, McDaid said it was the “obvious choice” of club and he is delighted to have such a key asset on board.

“He has family ties here and it was a lot for

him to be travelling up and back to Donegal the whole time. It’s great he was able to join and it helped us big time. It’s great to have another family member in the team!”

It was confirmed Durcan will fly back for Boden’s All-Ireland semi-final date on February 13 against Clonmel Commercials in Portlaoise.

Despite the tie coming so early in the new GAA year, McDaid says he is particularly refreshed for this tie.

After a number of years of hectic Christmases, the defender says that having six weeks from the Leinster final win to the All-Ireland semi has given him some rare downtime.

“We had a good Christmas, having a good break after the Leinster final. It was a tough 12 months so the rest was needed.

“As soon as the year turned, we have been

back on it with a few heavy sessions and now we are focussing on the football side of things.

“I have been there and understand how busy Christmas can be, trying to train in between.

This was actually one of the first that I was able to kick back and put my feet up for a while. We got a nice balance.”

Indeed, having previously been part of Dublin minor and Under-21 sides that trained through the winter period, McDaid knows exactly how physically draining the period can be.

This had an effect on him stepping away from Gaelic football a couple of years ago to play soccer with UCD Freshers team – winning an All-Ireland title into the bargain – as a way of getting a little bit of downtime.

He says that he returned to his number one passion refreshed.

“I needed a break; a lot of my Christmases, I was with the Dublin minors of Under-21s and I was going for three or four years flat out with not much of a break.

“I came back to the Gaelic more refreshed. It was great for my head and also for my footwork.

I noticed I was lighter on my feet.”

And now he is looking to take that fleet-footed nature into battle with Clonmel. His anticipation has seen him rewatch the Leinster final regularly but he hopes he can add a new video to his collection.

“I’ll be honest; I have watched it two or three times at home on the television.

“Anytime we come up to the club, it seems to be on the tv. It’s great memories to look back on it but we have something bigger that we want and that all happens on February 13.”