Gazette DUNDRUM
INSIDE: Stylist Roxanne Parker’s work with The Voice of Ireland means her average day is all sewn up P11
Feature: CoderDojo children compute a great way to show their skills for awards Page 15
The Rising: Guests give a stamp of approval to GPO centre Page 8
sport Rugby:
Old Wesley playoff hopes dealt big blow Page 30
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April 7-13, 2016
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Garda station could reopen emma nolan
REOPENING Stepaside Garda Station may be a possibility, sources have revealed to The Gazette. With ongoing talks taking place in the process of forming a government, Independent TD for Dublin Rathdown, Shane Ross told The Gazette that re-opening Stepaside Garda Station has been “put on the table”. The station closed in March, 2013, despite strong opposition from local residents and politicians who maintain that crime has risen in the area since the closure. Deputy Ross said: “I raised this issue in the talks in the context of reopening garda stations nationwide,
Stepaside “on the table” as part of Deputy Shane Ross’s negotiations and I specifically raised the issue of Stepaside Garda Station. “Independent Alliance are fully behind nationwide re-openings of stations that meet certain criteria, and we are awaiting a positive response. I’m hopeful we will be able to push further as talks proceed.” Full story next week
bee-zy promoting the launch of tech week 2016 BUMBLEBEE the transforming robot was joined by a number of children from across south Dublin to help launch Tech Week 2016 recently. Kacey Philippe from Foxrock joined Sarah Guillemet, Nathan Kennedy and Kiran Byrne from Blackrock to help the friendly robot launch the popular
initiative. The national festival of technology, that is aimed at students, parents and the public, takes place this year from April 24-30, and will see more than 100,000 primary and postprimary pupils all over Ireland taking part in a range of fun tech-related activities. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography
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politics | fg deputy defends appointment
Bailey rejects nepotism claim over father’s role emma nolan
Cllr John Bailey (FG) congratulates his daughter, Deputy Maria Bailey, following her success in Election 2016. Picture: Geraldine Woods
NEWLY elected Fine Gael TD for Dun Laoghaire Maria Bailey has appointed her father, Cllr John Bailey (FG), as her parliamentary assistant. A spokesperson for Fine Gael confirmed that the role is being shared between Cllr Bailey and Cllr Marie Baker (FG). The role has a salary of €49,000 per annum, which will be split between the pair. Speaking to The Gazette, Deputy Bailey said: “Both councillors are 12 years on Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, have vast experience, and knowledge of the constituency. “I think the word ‘nepotism’ is used too freely,” she said. Deputy Bailey did not hold interviews for the position. The role of parliamentary assistant consists of dealing with media queries, public relations and constituency functions, which include attending meetings and events. Deputy Bailey said that she hired both councillors for the role because neither “want to do it fulltime because they’re both councillors as well”. Cllr Karl Gill (PBP) criticised Deputy Bailey’s decision to hire Cllrs Bailey and Baker to the role, deeming it “necessary nepotism for the Baileys”. When asked how she thinks the public will perceive this move, in light of the ongoing debate about cronyism and nepotism
in Irish politics, Deputy Bailey said: “The exception to that is that my father has been a councillor for 12 years, and is well-known as being a very hard worker on the ground.” She said that based on the responses she’s received, “people just presumed that he would be working with me in Leinster House”. “Numerous people have said it to me, and they’re delighted – we’ve been by each other’s side for 12 years, and I’m very proud to have him working with me.” Cllr Gill said: “Maria Bailey picked John Bailey and Marie Baker as her PAs because she can’t trust anyone else in Dun Laoghaire Fine Gael. “There is no sense of party camaraderie in Fine Gael – it’s all backbiting and internal squabbles, so in this sense Maria Bailey has safely insulated herself from competition within her own party.” However, Deputy Bailey said: “Who is best placed to represent me if I can’t attend something? “This is not about nepotism – this is about being effective, and having the right experience.” When asked if people may still perceive this as nepotism, despite her intentions, she said: “People are always going to say that, but it’s not. “My father is just over a hip replacement three weeks ago, and for the last 10 days he’s been out dropping [post-Election 2016] thank-you letters on crutches ... I can stand over this decision.”
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FastNews Two great plays taking to the stage at the Mill Theatre, Dundrum Love in the Title and The Signalman’s Son are two plays taking to the Mill Theatre Stage in Dundrum this month. Written by Hugh Leonard and performed by Rathfarnham Theatre Group, Love in the Title tells the story of three generations of women merging three distinct time periods. In 1999, Kate – a 37-year-old, single PhD student – is joined by her 30-year-old mother Triona, a 1964 suburban housewife. The trio is completed by Kate’s grandmother, Cat, a spirited 20-year-old in 1932.
Conversations Their conversations reveal family history and its intricate relation to the wider story of Irish culture. The Signalman’s Son is a new play, written and directed by Gerard Dalton, which is set in an Irish midland town after the collapse of The Celtic Tiger. The fall-out from the property crash, rural decline, health cutbacks and dissatisfaction among young adults is the background to this contemporary drama about the family of the local railway signalman. Both plays are currently running until this Saturday, April 9 at 8pm. Tickets are €12 or €15, and are available at milltheatre.ie.
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7 April 2016 DUNDRUM Gazette 3
new skills | ‘real world’ work experience is promised for attendees
sport
Meet your racing heroes
Media courses for teenagers in UCD
emma nolan
The Irish Academy of Public Relations is offering media courses for teenagers on campus at University College Dublin (UCD) for the first time this summer. The five-day course gives students aged from 13 to 17 a flavour of what it is like to work in different areas of the media, focusing on journalism, public relations, event management, radio presenting and television presenting. The courses, which will be held at UCD, will encourage students to be involved in writing for media, crisis management of a PR situation, organising an event, presenting on radio and
being video recorded for TV. Each day presents a different challenge. The course is taught by professionals working in the industry, so the teenagers are getting “real world” experience over the week of their course. Ellen Gunning, director of the Irish Academy of Public Relations, said: “These are no ordinary courses. This is not about sitting in a classroom, absorbing and regurgitating information – this is about learning from people who work at the coalface every day. “This is about getting the inside story on what really happens in these careers. “It will involve checking out your writing
styles, or your organisational skills, to see if you have what it takes to work in these industries. “We all forget that young people have no experience of the working world, so they can only gauge their interest in careers from the people around them, such as family and friends, and from the television and social media. “For the first time, this year we are offering a specific media course which allows teenagers to really find out what the media industry is like,” she said. The course begins on July 4 and further details of the course are available from info@irishacademy.com.
a woolly nice greeting
CLLR Lettie Mc Carthy (Lab) visited the Williams farm, Glencullen to meet some new spring arrivals recently. Speaking to The Gazette, she said: “Spring is such an exciting season, with all its new growth and activity, and I especially love spring on the farm with the arrival of baby lambs. I feel privileged to come from a farming background, and the memories of being out with my dad during the lambing season come flooding back. I always wanted pet lambs that needed to be bottle-fed, but of course this wasn’t what my dad wanted. I loved when he called me in the middle of the night to give him a hand delivering lambs – that wonderful experience of bringing new life into the world in the stillness of the night. I feel privileged that I have the opportunity to represent the rural community as part of my brief as an elected representative in the Glencullen/Sandyford ward,”she said.
L E O PA R D S T OW N Race Course will host a Meet the Heroes of the Turf – Up Close and Personal Racing Experience this Sunday, April 10. The racing experience will take place on Ballysax Stakes Day and racegoers will be guided through the race card with RTE broadcaster Robbie Irwin. Pat Keogh, chief executive of Leopardstown, said: “We’re hoping that new race goers will see it as a way to learn a little about horse racing from leaders in the industry, as well as a chance for seasoned horse racing fans to meet their heroes up close and personal.” Tickets for this event are €30 and are available to buy online at Leopardstown.com.
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people | dundrum man had a prestigious seat at the rising parade
Honouring his uncles at the GPO emma nolan
DUNDRUM resident Donal Donnelly was invited to view the 1916 Commemoration ceremony at O’Connell Street on Easter Sunday alongside a number of politicians and heads of state, including former Presidents Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese. Donnelly, originally from Omagh, Co Tyrone, has lived in Dundrum for the past 50 years following his escape from jail in Belfast in 1960. At the age of 17, he had been sentenced to 10 years in a high-security wing of Crumlin Road Prison for membership
of the IRA. The now 76-year-old author fled across the Border after escaping the prison on St Stephen’s Day and has written a book, entitled Prisoner 1082: Escape from Crumlin Road, Europe’s Alcatraz, about those events and his life afterwards in Cork and then in Dundrum, where he lives today with his wife, Catriona. Talking to The Gazette, he said: “I’ve been living in Dundrum for 50 years now, in Meadowbrook Estate – we’ve won Tidy Towns four times.” Donnelly is pictured wearing three medals that belonged to his uncles
who fought in the Irish War of Independence, and who were involved in preparations for The Rising in 1916. “My two uncles’ names are Michael Donnelly and Patrick Donnelly, and they were both, like myself, born and reared in Omagh. “Michael was given his medal because he was a courier for John Devoy and was involved in the preparation for The Rising, and Patrick was given medals for his participation and being a member of the IRA for the War of Independence from 1818 to 1921. “Michael died tragically in Philadelphia in 1923,
aged 30. As a regular visitor to Dublin he used to gather at the home of Constance Markievicz on Sunday mornings, and actually appeared in a silent film called Matt the Thrasher. Patrick died in Tyrone in 1941.” Donnelly and his wife, Catriona, who is the grand-niece of Michael Mallin – who was second in command after James Connolly in the Irish Citizen Army, and who commanded the garrison at St Stephen’s Green with Constance Markievicz – attended the commemorations on O’Connell Street and were seated at the GPO. “Catriona got a ticket
Dundrum resident Donal Donnelly was invited to view the 1916 Commemoration ceremony at O’Connell Street, where he paid tribute to two of his uncles who were involved in The Rising by wearing their medals
as well because of her connection to Michael Mallin, and we both attended the GPO and then the Relatives Gathering in Dublin Castle, and on Monday morning we attended a wreathlaying ceremony at the
Royal College of Surgeons. “I was invited to the commemorations based on my uncle Michael’s connection, and I also got tickets to the Comhaltas Ceoltoiri concert on in the RDS, which was
amazing,” he said. Donnelly said that the 1916 commemorations at the GPO were the first time the medals had been out of their boxes. “I wanted to remember Michael and Patrick,” he said.
7 April 2016 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 5
SALLYNOGGIN | NECESSARY CHANGES TO ADD BAYS IN FOCUS
Concern over bus stop plan for Sallyglen Rd EMMA NOLAN
DUBLIN Bus has identified preferred locations for bus stops along the Sallyglen Road in Sallynoggin in a plan that has been described as “not perfect” by CLlr Cormac Devlin (FF). The Sallyglen Road build was completed in 1998 and was a contentious issue at the time due to numerous objections from residents. Cllr Devlin spoke to The Gazette about the plan. He said that the land where the road
stands today had been reserved for road infrastructure for 30 years, and when it was finally constructed the county planners at the time made provisions for bus routes and provided space for four bus bays. Cllr Devlin said the issue he is concerned with is that “the planners would be removing the wall and shrubs there that were so hard fought for. “I put early warning shots out in the council to remove them at their peril, because there will
be a huge uproar. “However, when they proposed those four bus stops, they are now only proposing to use two of them in this current plan, and then proposing to create four new ones.” Cllr Devlin said that the four new stops are going to block the carriageway in some cases, and cause delays. “My preference would be that the council and Dublin Bus work together to try and indent some of those bus lanes to put them into the green space where there’s room, and
THEATRE A farcical show to entertain EMMA NOLAN
Part of Sallyglen Road that could see four new Dublin Bus stops added – however, the practicalities of adding the stops are now being examined. Picture: Google Maps
won’t interrupt the wall or trees. “It would allow the bus to pull in and the cars to pass.” A spokesperson from the council said: “The green verges along Sallyglen Road are not wide enough to accommodate a 3m-wide bus layby, in
addition to providing a paved area for bus passengers to wait. “Two of the stops will utilise existing lay-bys on Sallyglen Road, and two of the stops are proposed at locations where there is a second traffic lane, which will facilitate overtaking of the bus if
necessary. “Dublin Bus carried out a survey on their Sallynoggin routes and confirmed to the council that during peak morning and evening services, the average dwell times [by waiting cars impeded by buses] at stops is 14 seconds.”
THE Stillorgan Players acting group will be putting on a comedy performance at the parish centre on St Brigid’s Road in Stillorgan this month. It Runs in the Family is a comedy by Ray Cooney. Set in a hospital, the play contains the usual assortment of farcical characters running in and out of doors mistaking everybody for someone else, as Dr Mortimore tries to fend off a paternity suit, an exwife, a punkish daughter and various other characters so that he may deliver a lecture at an international conference. The show runs from Thursday, April 14 to Saturday, April 16 at 8pm, and tickets are available at stillorganplayers.com.
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Kia Dundrum Braemor Road, Churchtown, Dublin 14, (01) 296 4020 www.kiadundrum.ie Fuel consumption figures in l/100km for the Kia Rio and cee’d 5-door range are: Urban 4.7 - 6.3, Extra Urban 3.4 - 4.2, Combined 3.9 - 5.0. The official CO2 emissions are between 94 - 115 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 †Excludes delivery & related charges. Models are shown for illustrative purposes only. *Lending criteria and terms and conditions apply. Finance is provided by way of a hire purchase agreement. Finance example is based on a fixed rate APR of 0% and is inclusive of a once off purchase instalment of €10. To qualify for this Finance Offer; a minimum deposit of 40% of the retail price applies and a maximum term of 48 months applies. Rate quoted is correct as at 1st April 2016 and is subject to change. This offer is available on all new selected Rio and cee’d range models registered until XXXX. The credit provider is Bank of Ireland Finance which is a registered trading name of Bank of Ireland.
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fundraiser arts | glencullen-shot film in prestigious film festival
Concert at Marlay House emma nolan
MARLAY House is set to host a spring concert this Sunday in aid of An Taisce South County Dublin Association. The concert promises to bring together both the music and the fashions of centuries past, all within the historical architecture of Marlay House. It will include a guitar presentation by Eamon Sweeney, and violin performed by composer Sinead Finegan. The Irish Historical Costumers group will also be showcasing period costumes, and refreshments will be provided for guests. Starting at 3pm, tickets are payable on entrance and are €15 for adults and free for children under 12.
Irish hopes go with ‘Rachel’ to Dresden emma nolan
A SHORT film commissioned by Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council has been nominated for Best International Short at the Dresden International Short Film Festival. Rachel Coming Home is directed by Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art and Design (IADT) graduate Sophia Tamburrini and was filmed in the Glencullen area of the county in 2014/2015. It is part of the current public art programme
managed by the council’s arts office. The film was funded through the council’s environment and housing capital projects under the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government Per Cent for Art scheme. The film tells the story of Rachel, who was neglected by her alcoholic mother and taken away by social services as a child and has led a troubled life since then. Having checked herself into rehab for fear of going down the same road as
her mother, at the end of her stay Rachel must return home for the first time in 15 years for her mother’s funeral. As she r ummages through her mother’s possessions in a house where time appears to have stood still, she finds the traces of a broken woman who she can learn to accept. Filmfest Dresden was founded in 1989 and attracts 20,000 visitors annually. Over the six festival days in mid-April, it brings the latest short film productions from Germany, Europe and the world
A still from Rachel Coming Home, which was shot in Glencullen in 2014/2015. The film was chosen as the sole Irish entry this year in the Filmfest Dresden festival.
to the cinema screens in the capital of Saxony. Each year, more than 2,000 short films from 100 countries are submitted for selection in the national and international competition sections. In 2016, 35 films have been chosen to compete in the international competition, out of
more than 2,000 entries. Rachel Coming Home is the only Irish film at this year’s festival and it has been invited to represent Ireland at the event. Culture Ireland is providing a travel grant so that director Sophia Tamburrini may attend the festival.
An Cathaoirleach, Barry Saul (FG) said the council “is delighted to see this film nominated for such a prestigious award”. He added: “We are particularly pleased that Sophia is a graduate of IADT; it shows the wealth of talent in the county.”
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Gazettegallery
| an taoiseach opens state-of-the-art facility
The first President of the The hands of Jimmy Deenihan,
Executive Council of the Irish Free
Minister for Diaspora Affairs,
Aidan Collins, dressed as an Irish Volunteer, and Sarah Kinlen,
State, William T Cosgrave - one of
holding commemorative stamps
dressed as a member of Cumann na MBan
the exhibition’s iconic figures
GPO’s visitor centre brings the Rising to life A
Megan and Laura Jones with An Taoiseach, with the trio reflecting on the symbolism of the individual rocks, representing the children killed in the Rising
N TAOISEACH Enda Kenny was guest of honour at the GPO in the city centre recently, where he opened the communication hub’s new Witness History visitor centre. The multimillion state-of-the-art centre commemorates the GPO’s role at the
very heart of the Rising in 1916, with its exhibits and multimedia tracing the path of revolution. The stories of the leaders of the Rising are mixed with the tales of the ordinary men, women and children who were caught up in the extraordinary events, with their
lives (and deaths) given a respectful and thorough analysis. Former Taoiseach Liam Cosgrove was also in attendence, with his father, WT Cosgrave – the first president of new Irish Free State – among those commemorated by the superb new visitor centre.
7 April 2016 DUNDRUM Gazette 9
commemorating the struggles and sacrifices for irish independence in 1916
Songwriter and vocal artist Jack Lukeman, aka Jack L
An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, with former Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave
A fish-eye view of the inner courtyard at the GPO, now transformed into a commemorative 1916 space. Pictures: Maxwell Photography
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7 April 2016 DUBLIN CITY Gazette 11
asdfsdaf feature P27 P16
skills P15
dublinlife Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
Gazette
diary P12
a day in the life: behind the scenes with the voice of ireland stylist roxanne parkeR
Kept sew busy dressing stars emma nolan
MAKING sure some of Ireland’s best-known presenters look the part is all in a day’s work for Dublin stylist, Roxanne Parker. With the live shows for The Voice of Ireland currently under way, a day in Roxanne’s life consists of a gruelling schedule styling the ladies of the show – judges Una Healey from The Saturdays, Rachel Stevens of S Club 7 fame, and presenter Kathryn Thomas. She said: “With television, you have to pump up the volume and things that might look lovely in real life can get lost on camera. There are lots of parameters that I have to deal with when deciding on outfits. “Number one, the judge’s chairs are red,
so there loads of things that will clash with that. Number two, they have to be sitting down, so I have to be careful about hemlines, because skirts can ride up. “Number three, a lot of prints can pixelate on screen and they can actually start ‘strobing’. So before I even start pulling clothes, there’s loads of things I have to take into consideration,” she said. She also has to work with the girls’ figures. “They may be celebrities, but they’re like every other woman – they have parts of themselves that they dislike as well as the parts they like, so I have to dress around that.” With Rachel Stevens, Roxanne says she’s a “real lady with a natural, ladylike elegance and sexi-
ness about her,” so her wardrobe is a “tightrope” balance of the two. “She doesn’t do short dresses at all; she loves maxi skir ts, longer lengths and showing off her shoulders,” she says of Rachel, who is also really “dainty”, and dressing her involves having many garments altered so as not to overwhelm her frame. Speaking of Una Healy, Roxanne says that “rockchick is her go-to look”. “As she’s been embarking on a solo career, we’ve really been carving out a new look for Una, which has been really exciting. “Una is a big fan of metallics, studs and leather, but is also very feminine. On last week’s show, she wore a dress from Alex Perry in a fresh, lime green and pale pink
– she looked like Ariel the Little Mermaid; it’s been really fun styling her.” As for Kathryn Thomas, Roxanne said: “She is under pressure – she’s on that stage for two hours and she needs to look good from a 360degree angle.” A day on set filming the show in The Helix involves dress rehearsals, fittings and camera tests. “The day just goes so quickly.” Roxanne stays in the wings during the show and stays on hand to ensure there are no wardrobe malfunctions. As for balancing her work schedule with her personal life, Roxanne says it’s “out the window” at the moment, but once filming ends things will mellow out. Dealing with criticism
from the public in an inevitable part of being in the public eye and there was some criticism for a dress Kathryn wore on the show a few weeks ago, which Roxanne has taken it in her stride. “People were saying that the dress was inappropriate and I’m thinking: ‘Guys, she’s not in the Dail giving a speech – she’s a TV presenter and she’s supposed to be glam and sexy’. It would be inappropriate if she showed up at church dressed like that, but she’s an entertainer on a TV show. “Part of the celebrity is the fact that they wear clothes that are amazing and different. The criticisms didn’t bother me – if you’re getting a reaction, you’re doing something right.”
Top stylist, Roxanne Parker, pictured at the Thomas Sabo SS16 collection event
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dublinlife Step out with Richie to help everyone with Parkinson’s ON APRIL 10, those who live with Parkinson’s disease and their supporters will convene in Merrion Square to take part in the annual Parkinson’s Association of Ireland Unity Walk. Starting Parkinson’s Awareness Week 2016 in style is the one and only Richie Kavanagh, who is calling on all those in Dublin who want to learn a cupla focal about how they can support those living with Parkinson’s disease to come along on the day. Richie, who lives with Parkinson’s disease (PD), will perform his recently re-launched hit song, Aon Focal Eile, as a part of the Unity Walk celebrations. He is encouraging all his fans, supporters and those affected by Parkinson’s disease to show their support for the Parkinson’s Association of Ireland by coming out to join in the Unity Walk to raise awareness for the disease, which affects over 12,000 people in Ireland. For further information, see www.parkinsons.ie.
a moving film on suicide in ireland THE classic Irish short film, A Day For The Fire, on the tragic theme of suicide in modern Ireland will be screened on
RTE 2 Shortscreen, on Monday, April 4 at midnight. Featuring riveting performances by Jonathan Ryan (Patriot Games) and Jon Kenny (D’Unbelievables), this follows international screenings at festivals such as Palm Springs, Savannah, Boston, Cork, Fastnet, and at Los Angeles for the 2013 Oscar longlist. The film is written and directed by Maurice O’Callaghan (Broken Harvest), and has played in selected cinemas in Ireland throughout 2014 and 2015 and may also be viewed on YouTube.
testing for better sexual health GLEN, the sexual health centre, recently launched KnowNow – Ireland’s first national free rapid HIV testing programme. The testing is community-based and will be provided by a team of community volunteers in a variety of non-clinical venues in Dublin, Cork and Limerick. In Dublin, this will include Pantibar, on Capel Street. The latest HIV diagnosis figures show that HIV remains an issue of critical concern for gay and bisexual men. Tiernan Brady, director of Gay HIV strategies for GLEN, said: “KnowNow,
the new rapid HIV testing pilot, is an exciting and innovative new approach to enabling more people to know their HIV status. “If people have HIV, then the earlier they become aware of their status the better it will be for their long-term health outcomes. “In addition, most HIV is transmitted by people who are unaware that they have HIV, so early diagnosis can further reduce onward transmission rates.”
borrow a way to save home energy HOME energy saving kits are now available in all Dublin City public libraries. The kits contain six useful tools to help homeowners save energy and cut costs and are available to borrow, free of charge. The kits have been developed by Dublin’s energy agency, Codema, and contain six practical tools to help people save energy at home. They are available to borrow from 10 library branches across the city. T he items in the toolkits address three key areas of energy use in the home – space heating, hot water and electricity consumption – and can help identify common
diary
Paula Gilmore, Parkinson’s Association of Ireland, joined the one and only Richie Kavanagh to help promote the upcoming annual Parkinson’s Association of Ireland Unity Walk at Merrion Square, on April 10
problems, such as a lack of insulation, poor ventilation and the appliances in the home that might be driving up electricity bills. The kit is also accompanied by a step-by-step user manual and demonstration video which easily explain how to use each tool correctly, so it can appeal to homeowners with even the most basic knowledge of energy-saving.
knowledge for a men’s health issue THIS April, the Movember Foundation is encouraging guys and their partners to get to Know Thy Nuts. The mission of Testicular Cancer Awareness Month is to educate the country about what’s
normal and most importantly, what’s not. Though not always seen as such, testicular cancer is very much a young man’s disease and is most common in men aged 15-34. Many men either never check their testicles, or don’t know how to perform a self-examination, making it all the more critical that awareness around the issue is improved. The Movember Foundation has created a limited edition Know Thy Nuts soap-on-a-rope, to help spread awareness while raising vital funds for men’s health. Neil Rooney, Movember country manager, says: “While testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young
men, it’s largely overlooked and many men simply aren’t aware of the signs they need to look out for. “As the leading foundation for men’s health in Ireland, Movember is going all-out for Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, and asking guys and their partners to #KnowThyNuts.” Visit Movember.com to purchase limited Testicular Cancer Awareness Month products, and to find out more information.
all aboard the ark for fun FROM June to August at Ireland’s only dedicated cultural centre for children, The Ark, in Temple Bar, young people can enjoy five-day summer
camps, one-off workshops and special events, as well as a free exhibition about the making of Cartoon Saloon’s hugely successful animation, Song of the Sea. Budding animators can gain insight and practical experience of the world of animation, try out different animation techniques, or become part of an animation film production team as they work in groups to create, storyboard and film a short animated film. With events starting at age 2+ (the summer camps are for children aged from eight to 12), there is a chance for all the family to get involved. Bookings can be made now. For further information, see ark.ie.
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dublinlife
FEATURE
Run, walk or trek to support MS Ireland’s work ian begley
THREE upcoming events will give people the opportunity to get active, take a challenge and have fun helping to raise funds for people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and their families locally. MS Ireland, the national services, information and research organisation supporting people living with MS, is calling on people in Dublin city and county to choose an event and visit www.mssociety.ie to sign up and receive a Team MS Ireland pack. Get active with the girls in the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon, which takes place on June 6. The VHI Women’s MiniMarathon is now open
for sign-up. Women are three times as likely to be diagnosed with MS as men, making this a great chance for women across the country to take part and “Get Active for MS”, showing their support. Alternatively, why not Trek the Camino Portuguese Route for MS from September 17 – 24 as part of MS Ireland’s 27th Camino Trek? Camino, The Portuguese Route, promises an incredible experience. This year, Camino trekkers for MS will have the chance to walk the Portuguese Route – Tui to Santiago Compostela. The fundraising target is €2,950 per person. The last section of the
Portuguese Way starts in the border town of Tui, separated from Portugal only by the River Minho and the International Bridge. From Tui to Santiago de Compostela, the Camino trail passes wooded areas, farmlands and hamlets, as well as historic towns and cities, including the city of Pontevedra with its classic Galician old town, superb architecture and centre. Then, later this year, MS Ireland was delighted to be one of two official charities for the 2015 Dublin Marathon. The organisation is asking anyone signing up for the Dublin City Marathon on October 30 to consider running for people
Eileen Drumgoole and Ann Marie Shevlin add a dash of fun to last year’s VHI Women’s Mini-Marathon, with MS Ireland one of the many causes being supported by participants in the popular annual event every June
with MS and raise funds for vital services. MS is the most common disabling neurological condition of young adults in Ireland. The
condition is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. Debilitating symptoms include impaired mobility, severe fatigue
and cognitive difficulties. There is currently no known cause or cure for the condition. Funds raised by everyone taking part for people with MS will help to provide one-to-one and family support including newly diagnosed sessions, physiotherapy and symptom management programmes through ten regional offices across the country. The funds will also help with the operation of the MS Information Line, to provide one-toone professional support to people with MS; and to continue to deliver specialised services in the MS Care Centre – Ireland’s only respite and therapy centre for people with MS.
Ava Battles, chief executive, MS Ireland said: “Getting active has great benefits for all of us. In my work I’m constantly inspired by people – people living with MS, people taking on challenges to fundraise for an important cause. “It is always great to hear the positive feedback from those taking part in events like Women’s Mini-Marathon, Camino and Dublin City Marathon. “It’s about the combination of a great personal experience while at the same time helping people with MS and their families.” For further information on these, or to register, see www.ms-society. ie, or call 01 678 1600.
7 April 2016 Gazette 15
Gazette
FEATURE
Young blogger Lexi Schoene (above) and Harvey and Jasper Brezina Conniffe, with Lightron the robot – all helping to promote the fifth annual CoderDojo Coolest Projects awards. Pictures: Conor McCabe
children : popular annual coderdojo initiative
Young minds turn to coding awards ian begley
MORE than 800 young innovators from across Ireland and Western Europe will take part in the fifth annual CoderDojo Coolest Projects awards, which look set to be the largest technology event held in the country this year, and demonstrate the popularity of coding for many young people. This year’s awards will be held at the RDS on Saturday, June 18 and are expected to attract more than 10,000 spectators to witness demonstrations of the apps, websites, animation, games and robots among this year’s submissions. The CoderDojo Coolest Projects awards are unique in Europe, have been embraced by the EU, and were established as a competition and exhibition to create, support and inspire a generation of
innovators, creators and entrepreneurs aged from seven to 17. The Coolest Projects l a u n c h a t C HQ i n Dublin on March 29 was attended by some of Ireland’s brightest young innovators, who were flanked by a giant robot. Eight-year-old blogger Lexi Schoene has entered the blog/website category at this year’s Coolest Projects awards with her site, lexililybelle.com.
Wordpress “I used the HTML and coding skills I learned at CoderDojo Dun Laoghaire to design my website using Wordpress,” said Lexi, who blogs on her life and interests across a range of platforms. The awards create a unique platform for young people to develop a broad set of coding and digital skills by offering
them the opportunity to showcase the skills they have learned at CoderDojo and other coding clubs. “Coolest Projects provides the bridge from learning coding skills at CoderDojos to innovating and creating future employment. “We are the piece in the middle which makes the connection,” said Coolest Projects cofounder, Noel King. “These digital skills are vital if Europe is to address the coding skills shortage which has led to 500,000 open job postings across the region in 2015.” Coolest Projects has seen young people deliver projects across the latest technologies, from Cloud-based tech to virtual reality, and has the real potential to drive vital digital skills across a pan-European platform. T here are awards
across a range of age groups in the disciplines of websites, apps, animation and games, advanced languages, enterprise and hardware. This year also sees the addition of Launch’d, a unique one-day event aimed at supporting the next generation of technology entrepreneurs.
Start-ups Running in parallel with Coolest Projects, it will feature Ireland’s 100 top tech start-ups and a host of top international speakers, in what will be the biggest technology event held in Ireland this year. Muirne Laffan, RTE’s chief digital officer, said: “Equipping young people in Ireland with the skills to become the digital creators of tomorrow is vitally important.” For further information, see www.coolestprojects.org.
Gazette
16 Gazette 7 April 2016
dublinlife
FEATURE
property: spacious gallowhill homes could be a perfect escape from the city
An exclusive development awaits in Athy EXPERTS now say the residential market is stabilising with property values in the Leinster region rising by 15.8%, but with regional variations. As new homes are in short supply in the greater Dublin area, Gallowhill New Homes offers a unique opportunity to purchase a quality family home within walking distance of Athy train station. The small and exclusive development is conveniently located in the Kildare heritage town, just one hour from Dublin and 10km from the M9, Exit 3. The remaining detached homes are being
launched this Sunday by joint agents, Fingleton and Co and Brophy Farrell. Gallowhill’s spacious interiors are well suited to modern day living and offer a choice of two different house types, Type A and Type B. Both house types have four bedrooms, with the larger house having two reception rooms and two en-suites. Type B has a very large open plan kitchen with dining area and double doors leading to the rear garden. The kitchen in the larger house, Type A, offers a totally different kitchen layout along with two sets of double doors opening from the kitchen
and dining area onto the rear garden. This offers great possibilities for the addition of a sun room at a later stage, without having to touch the main structure of the house. The “B” house price has remained at €220,000, and will particularly appeal to first-time buyers to qualify for the new regulations on residential mortgage lending. This development is architect designed with maintenance-free facades, and offer generous living space with excellent standard features including a stove, extensive tiling, cream Shaker-style painted kitchens, ward-
robes in four bedrooms, and tiling to the kitchen. Gallowhill is located in a sought after area, within walking distance of Athy train station, Athy golf club and the four-star Clanard Court Hotel. Athy, an ancient heritage market town, is located on the River Barrow and Grand Canal, and is rich in architectural and natural heritage. Ardscull Moate, Mullaghmast Ring Fort, Mullachcreelin Woods, Moone Abbey and High Cross are all located in the vicinity and in the best of agricultural farmlands. The town offers a superb choice of well-es-
Gallowhill’s spacious interiors have been finished to the highest standards
tablished modern schools, excellent clubs and sports facilities and numerous festivals throughout the yearly calendar
Gallowhill estate lies between the Kildare Road and the Kilcullen road, and has been well planned with a featured
driveway into the estate. For further info, email info@reabrophyfarrell.ie or info@fingletonandco. com.
7 April 2016 Gazette 17
gaming P22
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
cinema P23
Gazette
travel P20
city
MUSIC The Martin brothers
Cry Monster Cry to play in Temple Bar ian begley
These colourful characters helped to give the eleventh annual International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival a picture-perfect launch recently. With a diverse range of events on this year’s programme, the festival’s reach is accessible to all, and is not just limited to LGBT people.
arts: inclusiveness at the heart of annual international event
All welcome at gay theatre fest ian begley
THE eleventh annual International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival programme runs this year from May 5 to 17 at various locations across Dublin. This year’s festival will also feature a record number of plays by Irish playwrights and supports the growing interest in LGBT issues and the gay community at home. During the two weeks in May, the audience will have the opportunity to enjoy drama, comedy, music and cabaret at accessible prices, as well as a range of free events. This annual event will also present plays from abroad, including the USA, Canada, South Africa, Israel and Australia, as well as plays from closer to
home, from Northern Ireland and Britain. In his speech, the festival’s artistic director and chairman, Brian Merriman, highlighted the need for inclusion of all people in the festival events. Although 50% of the festival audience is heterosexual, he pointed out that the festival is “suffering from goodwill”. He explained: “So many people look at the event and go: ‘Well done’, and then self-exclude themselves from it because they are not LGBT, or they think they are not into theatre. “We do not personally profit in any way from our voluntary work supporting professional artists, but I believe we all profit from this visibility, this diversity, this inclusiveness of all, regardless of their identity, in a unique artistic cel-
ebration of new voices, new work and new horizons in Dublin in May.” This year, the festival audience will have the opportunity to experience stories about family and gender, musings on love and happiness with a poignant look at gay marriage and divorce, love and loss. There will be talks about gay rights, politics and sex in the 1980s, and a rethink of children’s tales and fairy tales. Love will blossom in the trenches of World War 1, football pitches and Northern Ireland, and in spite of and despite religion. There will be stories about privilege and assumed rights that go with it; of pure malice and perceived evil; of obsession and corruption of beauty.
1916’s heroes feature, as does the work of Wilde and Jean Genet and Stephen Sondheim, and even Margaret Thatcher will make an appearance on stage. However, without fail, the festival will show stories of and about that unpredictable and uncontrollable organ – the heart. The festival was founded in 2004 to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Oscar Wilde, in his native city. With an emphasis on new or recent international and Irish works with a broadly gay theme or relevance, the festival has grown to become the largest event of its type in the world. Booking is available online at www. gaytheatre.ie, or at the festival box office at The Arlington Hotel Temple Bar, Lord Edward Street, from April 28 at noon to 3pm daily.
JUST over a year since the release of their debut album in 2015, Rhythm of Dawn, brothers Jamie and Richie Martin (above) have had an incredible 12 months touring the UK and Ireland. The record debuted at #1 in the iTunes Singer/Songwriter charts, and their latest single, Atlas, has just smashed 165,000 streams on Spotify. Fresh from a host of successful live gigs around Ireland and the UK, the band will return to play their last Dublin headline show, before taking some time off to return to the studio to work on some new material. Their headline show takes place on April 8 in the Button Factory, from 7.30pm. Tickets are €16.50. For further information, see www. crymonstercry.com.
18 GAZETTE 7 April 2016
MANGO reversible sequin skirt €49.95, reversible seqiun top €29.95
OUT&ABOUT
Designers reign on Fashhood portal IRELAND’S top fashion designers are showcasing their work and interacting directly with a captive audience through a new online portal – fashhood.com. The new online platform (above) features an exclusive collection of Irish fashion, focused on the working woman. The site aims to promote and sell the work of Irish designers to a global audience and is also an up-and-coming online community where consumers can engage with the designers, share their thoughts, influence fashion and commission bespoke pieces. Designers featured on fashhood.com include Zoe Carol, Helen Cody, Natalie B Coleman, Shirley Copperwhite, Jill De Burca, Tina Griffin, Jen Kelly, Carol Kennelly, Elaine Madigan Cashmere, Ommactive, Rant & Rave, Emma Sheridan, Helen Steele, Niall Tyrrell, We are Islanders, and others. Designer Elizabeth McKay said that the site affords consumers a unique opportunity to learn more about the designers and engage with them. She said: “We’ve given women a voice and a platform where they can let designers know what they feel,
what they are looking for and what they like. It’s also a place where pictures of desirable or aspirational items can be posted, and a place where, at the press of a button, you can ask designers if they have similar [items] in stock or can make such an item.”
Markievicz Artist Emma Sheridan, who recently designed a 1916-inspired t-shirt, said: “My drawing of Countess Markievicz [screenshot, above] is my abstract version of a sketch I found of her by John Butler Yeats, and is aimed to represent what a colourful woman she was and life she led. “By collaborating with the other designers in Fashhood, I believe we are all putting our strengths together for the future to create a team strengthened by our own colourful histories.” Designer Helen Steele said: “I am delighted to be chosen to be a designer with Fashhood. It is a site for like-minded women who want to connect with and cultivate a new way to explore fashion online. “There are a treasure trove of Irish designers at your fingertips and the fact that we get to connect with the members of Fashhood is fantastic.”
Mango Metallics sweater €25.95, skirt €45.95
MANGO sequin dress €39.95
Metallic madness MANGO pleated top €9.95
MANGO skinny gloss jeans €39.95
EMMA NOLAN
MANGO metallic sweater €45.95
It’s time EMMA NOLAN
Style Editor
KARLIE Kloss is the face of Mango’s New Metallics campaign, which seeks to emulate the 90s Grunge era with a space-age twist. You know it’s starting to get warm again when you see the bikini display appear!
to shine
T h e combination of denims and leathers with the abundant sequin and metallic gloss textures delivers this mix of rock ’n’ roll and disco – neither of which are dead in Mango HQ this season. Glimmering and shining, the look Mango has achieved is set to be a hit with festival goers with its flashy and chic sen-
sibilities in equal measures. Glam and casual at the same time, the styling of leather and denim over shimmering fabrics gives the collection a hard edge that’s seamlessly softened by the metallic accents. Favourites include the high neck pleated top for only €9.95, and the sequin dresses (€39.95) paired with the cropped fitted leather jacket (€59.95).
7 April 2016 GAZETTE 19
River Island Paisley print frilly bardot top €37 Little Woods Ireland off the shoulder beach cover
GAZETTE
STYLE
Time for Tilbury’s magic help for your weary eyes
up dress €52 EMMA NOLAN
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HARD work and weather can take their toll
Expose those shoulders
on your hands, leaving them dry with cuts and hangnails, so a good hand cream is a worthwhile investment to prevent them from always feeling parched. Crabtree and Evelyn’s Gardeners 60 Second Fix for Hands Kit is a simple two-step system that promises
EMMA NOLAN
SHOULDERS are the new erogenous zone du jour with designers continuing to create bardot necklines and cold shoulder cut outs. And what could be more subtly seductive than a glimpse of sunkissed shoulders and collar bone? More restrained than cleavage, everyone can pull of this uncomplicated trend that suits all shapes and outfits.
From oversized cold shoulder jumpers to delicate bardot bodysuits, this trend can be worn multiple ways. Pair with high waisted pants, a midi skirt or a full off the shoulder dress or jumpsuit. All the high streets have variations and the likes of Asos and Missguided have a large number of pieces currently available. So get the bronzer out, it’s shoulders’ time to shine.
to give visible results after a single treatment. Step one is the Hand Recovery cream that cleanses, exfoliates and moisturises, followed by the hand therapy cream, which contains shea butter and nourishing macadamia nut oil. This cream wears like a glove to give protection from the elements. The kit is priced at €34 and is available at Kildare Village and pharmacies nationwide.
Gazette
20 Gazette 7 April 2016
OUT&ABOUT
fast
TRAVEL NEWS
getaways: stays in moscow, or the Cote d’Azur, will delight
This week, we have several deals from travel experts offering some great Maltese holidays
Make it marvellous Malta for a great trip ian begley
WHY not make 2016 a year to remember by visiting the Mediterranean island of Malta? With year-round sunshine, events and activities to suit all ages, Malta is certainly an ideal location for those who want to break away from Ireland. Only a short flight away, Malta has a variety of events this April and May that will definitely keep you entertained. Lowcostholidays is offering seven nights, departing on April 30, at the 4-Star Hotel Paradise Bay (B&B), from €562pp. Alternatively, you can depart on May 14 and stay at the 5-Star Excelsior Grand Hotel (B&B), from €652pp. With Budget Travel, you can depart on April 30 and stay at the 3-Star Topaz Hotel Apt, Bugibba (room only) for €523pp. You could alternatively depart on May 19 and stay at the 4-Star Canifor Hotel, Qawra (B&B), for €369pp. With Concorde Travel, you can depart on May 8 and stay for seven nights
at the 3-Star Blubay Apartments, Sliema (SC, one bedroom, three sharing) for €464pp. On May 15, Concorde is offering seven nights at the 5-Star Intercontinental Hotel, St Julians (B&B, standard room, two sharing) for €864pp. The 15th edition of the Malta International Fireworks Festival will take place on Saturday, April 1; Saturday, April 23; and Saturday, April 30. A number of Maltese and foreign fireworks factories will be participating in this competitive event, presenting spectacular firework displays that will be synchronised to music. The Valletta Green Festival, which takes place from May 6 to 9, is a weekend-long event that aims to inspire people to turn urban spaces into green oases. One of the highlights of the festival is the Infiorata, a colourful floral display composed of thousands of flowering plants placed next to each other. For further information and details of other events that will be taking place in Malta, see www. visitmalta.com.
A nine-night trip to Russia will take in some of the country’s cultural treasures, including Red Square in Moscow, and St Basil’s Cathedral
You’ll be Russian off to see some great sights ian begley
Travel Editor
EXPERIENCE everything that the Land of the Tsars has to offer on a nine-night, solo-friendly holiday to Russia, from €1,789pp. With flights departing from Dublin on September 15, travel to the regions where some of the world’s most famous art, literature and history were created, from the beautiful St Petersburg to the hustle and bustle of the capital, Moscow. During the first half of your stay, you will visit St Petersburg, which has more of a Scandinavian feel than the capital and is home to the Winter Palace – the former residence of the Russian monarchs. St Petersburg is also
home to Catherine’s Palace, in the town of Tzarskoye, which boasts some of the most opulent architecture and interior design you are ever likely to see. For the second half of your trip, visit Moscow and see the iconic squares and palaces that make the city so renowned. Here, you will see Red Square, which is the enormous plaza that houses St Basil’s Cathedral, amongst others. Other highlights are the Kremlin, which is a huge compound of government buildings containing the seat of the president, and the Kremlin Armoury, which houses some of the most valuable jewels in the world. You will also enjoy plenty of leisure time to explore these beautiful
cities at your own pace. Alternatively, if you fancy a break a tad closer to home, then why not try a three-night city break in Cote d’Azur, better known as the French Riviera? Priced from €499pp with flights leaving on November 10, the French Riviera has been the playground of the rich and famous since the 19th century, and all of its allure remains. From the opulence of Nice to the tranquillity of St Paul-de-Vence, this three-night short city break is truly special. You will visit Antibes, a town which was founded as a 5th century Greek colony due to its naturally protected port, and has historically been an important trade centre. Today, it is home to a
Sun worshippers need no introduction to Cote d’Azur
number of noted museums, including the Picasso Museum and the Naval Museum of Napoleon. Then you will set off for Nice, one of the most popular cities to visit in France, which boasts lots of cultural attractions, including a colourful flower market and the Promenade des Anglais, named after the earliest English visitors to the area.
There will also be plenty of time to discover the many hidden gems in Cannes at your own pace. Relax with a drink by the seaside or take a stroll alonges Film Festival, or enjoy an al fresco lunch in the Old Town of Cannes, overlooking the bay. For further information about these two offers, see www.traveldepartment.ie.
7 April 2016 Gazette 21
Cruising information event is sure to make some waves ian begley
ON SUNDAY, from noon to 5pm at the Red Cow Morans Hotel, e-Travel.ie will host an exclusive cruise information afternoon event with Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Silversea Cruiseline, Norweigen Cruiseline, Uniworld River Cruising and Riveria Travel. The travel experts are offering great deals and unique show offers on the day, with free presentations from all of the cruise lines’ representatives, and Q&A sessions for all those nautical but nice cruise queries. Discover fun-filled, action-packed holidays for the whole family on board luxury ships bursting with amenities such as rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, onboard surf parks, Broadway entertainment, great night life, shopping and gourmet cuisine. Imagine the spectacular glaciers and silent fjords of Alaska, paradise on the Caribbean coasts, the cultural splendour of European cities on a Mediterranean cruise, b e a u t i f u l H aw a i i a n Islands with dramatic lava flows and tropical rainforests, or broaden your horizons even further to destinations such as Dubai, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand, with exiting itineraries departing from the Middle East and Far East. Established in 1997, e-Travel is now one of Ireland’s leading inde-
pendent travel agents, specialising in cruising as well as flights, long-haul and online bookings, and are the only 100% Irishowned and managed online agency in Ireland. They have sailed away with numerous international awards for excellence in cruising, including top honours from Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International. The e-Travel Cruise Show is free to attend for all the family and as well as great value with special booking discounts for reservations made on the day, e-Travel’s awardwinning team will be in attendance to offer expertise and advice, as well as offering early booking discounts, on-board credit, or champagne in your cabin.
TRAVEL The Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa, Galway
The west is best for a relaxing trip ian begley
HEAD west and discover why Lonely Planet have named Galway city as one of the “Top 21 things to do in Ireland”, with a trip to the Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa. The popular guide book was released on March 11, and announced the coveted list of things to do in Ireland.
Changing technology and ever-improving ship design has seen the rise of super liners, with all the comforts
Sales up This January was a good month for Irish travel bookings, with sales up as much as 46% for some agents, with many holidaymakers cruising the luxury end of the market. According to e-Travel. ie, almost 58% of cruise sales are for four-star ships, and 35% for fivestar ships, but the luxury cruise liners are fast becoming the preferred option for customers. However, as the purse strings are loosening and luxury is back on the bucket list, enduring lessons learned during the recession mean that value for money is still a priority. The world has changed, and tastes have changed. Modern luxury means
Gazette
TRAVEL the aquatic life: set sail for a great gathering at Red Cow Morans Hotel fast
and attractions of a small city, providing a great range of activities to keep passengers entertained
airy spaces with all the right, tasteful details; restaurants where the design is just as important as the cuisine; intuitive service with a keen eye for detail, and doing as much or as little as you choose.
Cities Cruise ships are often referred to as floating hotels, and in some cases they are more like floating cities. You can choose from massive ships – such as Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas, which can carry almost 8,000 passengers and crew – or smaller, intimate river cruises, which carry less than 100 passengers. Among the statistics that e-Travel accumulated, $26bn is the glo-
The restful open-air solarium of Navigator of the Seas
bal value of preliminary ship orders until 2022, with 35,000 passengers from Ireland expected to cruise this year. According to e-Travel’s latest figures, 42% of Irish cruisers are now aged under 40. This represents a 20% increase since
2014, and shows the rapidly changing profile of cruise passengers from Ireland. The average price paid in 2015 for a fly-cruise package was €1,476, versus €1,383 in 2014, and stateroom sales breakdown to approximately
65% balconies, 28% inside, and 7% ocean view. So far in 2016, the trend seems to be upwardly mobile, to the 5- and 6-star luxury liners such as Celebrity, Silversea, Cunard and Cr ystal Cruises.
Renowned Located at Lough Atalia, just a short stroll from the heart of Galway city, Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa, Galway is the perfect base to explore what the renowned travel guide publisher describes as “Ireland’s liveliest city”. The Galway Getaway package at the Radisson Blu is available from €175 per person sharing, and includes a two-night stay, breakfast on both mornings, and dinner on the evening of your choice in Marina’s Grill, or Raw – Sushi in the Sky restaurant (below). For further information, see www.radissonhotelgalway.com, or call 091 538 521.
Gazette
22 Gazette 7 April 2016
OUT&ABOUT
GAMING
break: this stylish title is WEEBYTES quantum certainly unique, and fun as well
Miitomo is a first step into apps for Nintendo
Nintendo’s “Mii too” in social apps NINTENDO have been quietly making headlines with a small, but important step the release of its first app, Miitomo (IOS, Android; free, IAP; Cert 3+). Gamers have been clamouring for Nintendo to dip its toes in the app market for a long time now, as despite being a gaming giant, its hardware and software have all but disappeared from shops (here, at least). However Mitttomo marks Nintendo’s take on a social network, which sees uses create their own Nintendostyled avatar (a Mii), and then let them loose to engage with other users (which I’ll dub Yee). While the are a number of slight mini games, Miitomo users are most likely to see their bobble-headed characters while chatting with each other, or dressing them up in outfits for photo poses, and other silly, but fun, ways of creating character ownership, and socially interacting. At the time of writing, with less than a week out of the gate Miitomo has already been grabbed by more than three million people worldwide, which suggests Nintendo still know exactly how to create fun and friendly content.
Just in time to help XBox One fight its corner
EVER since their respective releases, the PlayStation 4 (PS4) and XBone One (XBO) have been locked in battle, circling each other in the ring in a tireless right to be the top dog in the gaming arena. So far, the PS4 has been nigh-on unstoppable, beating the XBO back towards a corner with one heavy blow after another, from its global sales tally to some of the platformexclusive titles set for the console. At times, the fight hasn’t been pretty ... However, the XBO has no intention of throwing in the towel – and nor should it, as it’s an equally impressive platform that has, perhaps, been a little slow to warm up and fight back, but 2016 looks likely to be the round that puts it back on a confident, equal footing in the middle of the ring as the coaches (Sony and Microsoft) yell encouragement. Indeed, the XBO has just landed an impres-
shane dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com
sive, powerful blow with its platform-exclusive title (albeit shared with the PC), Quantum Break (Cert 16). Long in development, Quantum has been a title that aroused plenty of interest along the way to release, but the finished title has perhaps surpassed expectations, and has delivered a title that is not only a great showcase for the XBO, but also stands out as a top title for 2016. It even makes a positive impression thanks to its mixed-media stylings – see boxout below – and, if nothing else, provides a much-needed dose of creative quirkiness to the XBO’s line-up. As the title might sug-
gest, Quantum Break follows a familiar sci-fi trope: temporal anomalies, or hijinks messing about with time’s properties, following an experiment going awry at a lab. Ah, scientists – will they never learn to leave quantum physics alone? The game’s protagonist – whose brother was behind the unfortunate experiment – is caught up in the unfolding catastrophe, and becomes endowed with several impressive time-related powers, all of which become invaluable once the main plot kicks in, and the shadowy corporation at the heart of the tale starts trying to clean up the mess (largely by eliminating everyone involved). The games’s dense plot is something of a McGuffin, however, as Quantum Break can largely be summed up as being a traditional third-person shooter (where you run and gun about various
With a hero able to manipulate time (above) or even wander through spectacular setpieces where time has frozen (below), Quantum Break is a pretty unique title
levels), with some cool time-related superpowers (such as freezing enemies in place in a time bubble, or effectively teleporting across areas), and interspersed with some very, very pretty and spectacular set pieces built around the notion of fractured, damaged time. While we’ve seen timerelated powers before in a number of games – typically, involving slomo shootouts, or used to direct story-changing gameplay – there’s never been a title quite like Quantum Break. On the one hand, it’s an accomplished shooter that hits all the right marks for the genre; on the other, the time-relat-
ed powers and abilities create something that’s a little more open-ended, with emergent gameplay that’s as messy, or fun, as the player wants it to be. Add in the striking setpieces, and the slick plot interruptions detailed below, and Quantum Break manages the paradox of delivering something that will feel quite familiar to seasoned gamers, while frequently being
fresh and unique, with very strong art direction and production values. Ultimately, this great, impressive title is just the kind of thing the XBO needs to land some impressive blows against the PS4, and reminds game and industry watchers that while Microsoft hasn’t fought like a champion in the ring, there’s still plenty of fight left, and everything to play for.
Some familiar faces add some thespian cred to QUANTUM break’s plot ONE of the things that makes Quantum Break so memorable, and unique, are how it delivers its plot – while there are all the usual in-game cinematics, it also features some glossy live action footage to help advance the plot. Quantum Break’s high-quality footage not only looks the part, with great production values that make it feel like a cross between 24, and Spooks, but also has some great actors. Sprinkled with a number of familiar
Whassisname faces, the most wellknown and recognisable actors include Aiden Gillen, Lance Reddick (both inset) and Dominic Monaghan, adding more than a dash of credibility to the well-shot scenes. While gaming is littered with excrutiatingly poor acting, that’s not the case here, as these live action segments have been expertly created, making it feel like a mini-series or box set that you’re just catching up with now.
Indeed, those familiar with Quantum Break’s developer, Helsinki-based Remedy Entertainment, won’t be surprised at the vision and direction on display here. Its precious titles have also had a singular impact, with its best-known title, Alan Wake, weighed down by a dour, dense narrative with cinematic overtones – yet sprinkled with moments of levity and silliness, too. While Quantum Break could have
been a curate’s egg, the live-action segments complete the package, making it a great game that XBO owners should definitely find the time for.
7 April 2016 Gazette 23
midnight special: this attractive film evokes a welcome familiarity
ReelReviews
A road movie that harkens back to some sci-fi classics there is a cer tain strain of sci-fi films that took over cinema screens in the late 70s and early 80s – films such as Stephen Spielberg’s ET, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind, or John Carpenter’s Starman – that tend to be emblazoned into the minds of the generation that was growing up at the time They are a far cry from the kind of grim and doom-laden sci-fi films that became popular in later decades; instead, these earlier films offered grand adventure entwined with a narrative of hope of redemption – a strange mix of what is most otherworldly, and what is most human. It is in this same vein that Jeff Nichols’ Midnight Special must be watched. Brooding and mysterious, Midnight Special is a film that likes to keep its audience ensconced snugly in the dark. Roy (Michael Shannon) is the concerned father who goes on the run with his supernaturally gifted son, Alton (Jaeden Lieberher). Alton’s got a myriad of inexplicable powers – but it’s his ability to tune
Dave phillips
into messages being relayed by satellites that has him in trouble. Murky government agencies want to run tests and find out exactly how Alton is accessing their information, while the remote evangelical community that claim Alton as a prophetic figurehead want to utilise him for their own devices. Midnight Special plays out as a kind of peculiar road trip, as it falls on Roy and an old friend, Lucas (Joel Edgerton), to get the boy across the country to safety before the government or the church find them. Things get more complex when Alton’s hypersensitivity to daylight comes into play – forcing him to spend much of the trip decked out in swimming goggles, and reading comics by torchlight in blackedout rooms. Much of the action is driven (quite literally, as
we travel across several states) by Edgerton and Shannon. Nichols keeps the screenplay fairly spartan, so much of the relationship between the two men is played out through their silences – and their performances are all the better for it, with Shannon exuding a kind of desperate determinism, while Edgerton continues on the trip with a kind of weary loyalty. Kirsten Dunst comes on board in the second half as Alton’s mother, as does Girls’ Adam Driver, who plays the government researcher that develops a special connection to Alton. There is an undeniable yearning to evoke a sense of nostalgia throughout Midnight Special. Despite being set in the present day, the clothing, the sets, and the shots all feel from the heyday of feelgood sci-fi. Adam Stone, who worked as cinematographer on Nichols’ previous features (Mud, and Take Shelter) captures and evokes that “ET feeling” in scenes set in windswept cornfields and lush forests.
Gazette
CINEMA
dawn of justice A batty but okay tale
TO USE its full title, Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice (Cert 12A, 151 mins) has been roundly slated by critics and fanboys, but has been a financial hit at least, with impressive box office sales around the world. Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill give decent turns as Batman and Superman respectively, but Jesse Eisenberg’s woeful miscasting as Lex Luthor almost derails the film.
CloverfielD lane
Monstrously entertaining
Although set in modern times, there’s an almost timeless feeling to Midnight Special, which takes a familiar tale (people on the run) but creates something fresh
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‘There is an undeniable yearning to evoke a sense of nostalgia throughout Midnight Special. Despite being set in the present day, the clothing, the sets, and the shots all feel from the heyday of feel-good sci-fi’
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However, the film remains concerned with light and dark, and Midnight Special introduces a darkness, both literal and figurative, that was not present in the earlier films that it aspires to emulate. Alongside the light of
hope and human connection lies a darker strand of religious fervour, desperation, and violence. Midnight Special keeps its cards close to its chest, teasing the audience along in the dark but never quite
enlightening them. As a result, it will be accused of having more style than substance, and it is hard to argue against that. It is a simple story that is told well, but there is something more going on. We enjoy some films because they make us feel clever, others because they make us feel tension, but Midnight Special succeeds in trying to evoke those sci-fi films of the 80s, because watching it feels wholesome. This is good, clean, cinematic fare for a new generation. Verdict: 7/10
AT TIMES avuncular, at times intimidating, John Goodman is in great form in 10 Cloverfield Lane (Cert 15A, 103 mins), the surprise out-of-nowhere sequel of sorts to the cult 2008 film, Cloverfield. A young woman wakes up in a bunker after a car crash, where her captor/ protector is determined not to let her leave – but what’s happening outside? It’s a taut, generally great film.
greek wedding 2 An unappetising sequel
LAST and definitely least, My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 (Cert 12A, 94 mins) has been met with a Greek chorus of universal derision since its recent release. While the original was a stereotypical but fun and breezy film, this 14-yearslate film serves up a very stale sequel that reheats key parts of the original. Veering between charmless and predictable, Greek Wedding 2 is one to avoid.
24 DUNDRUM Gazette 7 April 2016
census 2016 Sunday, April 24 is the day to fill out your form
It’s time to count everyone in the country – and you, too ON SUNDAY, April 24, every person in Dublin will make their mark by completing or being included on a census form. By participating in the census, we are helping to shape our understanding about life in Ireland in 2016, and show how Ireland has changed since the last census was taken in 2011. The census is a fundamental part of our national heritage and collective knowledge. The 2016 census will take place exactly 100 years to the day since the Easter Rising began, and the results will be of great interest to the historians of the future as they look back and reflect on life in Ireland in 2016. Between now and April 24, census enumerators will hand-deliver census forms to every dwelling in Dublin. Each household will be asked to fill out their census form on Sunday, April 24. This is known as census night, and everyone
who is in Ireland on that night must be included on a census form. Between April 25 and May 20, your enumerator will call back to collect your forms. The forms are then sent to the Central Statistics Office (CSO) warehouse, where the information on them is captured and analysed. The census provides vital information on a wide range of topics and issues and is used by every government department and local authority in the country, along with a wide range of both public and private service providers. Census data feeds into the planning stages of most aspects of Irish life – for example, new primary schools or nursing homes, trains and tram lines, childcare facilities or shopping centres. The greatest strength of the census is the provision of detailed population figures at a local level, and for minority groups. This data is used to identify, for example, the North, south, east or west – no matter where you are in Dublin or across the country on Sunday, April 24, you must be included in the latest national census. The information gleaned from Census 2016 will help to shape Dublin, and the country, for years to come. Picture: Shane Dillon
most appropriate locations for new local roads and bus routes, new primary schools and hospitals, areas of relatively high unemployment and the best locations for new factories. The census is also the only means of accurately measuring the exact extent of migration. By comparing the results of successive censuses, and taking account of the number of births and deaths that have occurred over the same period, we can get an accurate measure of net migration (the difference between inward and outward
migration). The last census was taken five years ago, in 2011. It showed that the population of Dublin was 1,273,069 people (619,902 males and 653,167 females) – an increase of 7.2% over the 2006 population. Swords had the highest density population within Dublin, with 36,924 people living in the town. The fastest growing town at the time was Saggart, which experienced 147% population growth between 2006 and 2011, making it the fastest growing town in the country.
There were 42,854 more females than males in the state in April, 2011, resulting in an overall sex ratio of 98.1 males for every 100 females. This trend is very evident in Dublin, where there were 94.9 males per 100 females. Some 22.8% of the private dwellings in Dublin comprised apartments or flats, compared with the State figure of 10.7%. In addition, 8.3% of dwellings were vacant in Dublin, compared with an average of 14.5% across the country. That 2006 census also revealed that 74.8% of
private households had a broadband connection in 2006. The number of persons whose religion was recorded as Catholic increased by 1.7% between 2006 and 2011, compared to 4.95% nationally. Finally, 17.2% of commuters travelled to work in 15 minutes or less, compared to the national figure of 27.2%. This level of information is very important in helping service providers to plan appropriately to meet the needs of the people of Dublin, and it shows why it matters that everyone completes their
census form. The first results from Census 2016 will be published this July. It will take a further nine months to scan and capture the full set of data off the two million census forms. The detailed results will be published in March, 2017. Further information about Census 2016 can be found at www.census.ie. Your census enumerator can also answer any questions you may have. Deirdre Cullen
Senior statistician, Central Statistics Office
7 April 2016 DUNDRUM Gazette 25
motoring An enjoyable ride whether on or off the beaten path mokka: an impressive crossover from opel
A spacious-feeling and powerful vehicle dave phillips
THE past five years have seen a surge in the sales of crossovers – an influx of more affordable, and more emission-friendly cars across the board has meant that many people – particularly young families – are being attracted by the extra space and versatility that these vehicles can offer. Opel’s Mokka may be one of the award-winning brand’s lesser spotted models, but on paper it seems to have plenty of
potential, so we took it on a test drive. Sitting up on 18” alloys, the Mokka looks like the pumped-up older brother of Opel’s more popular Corsa. Designed more for practicality than style, the Mokka’s broad frame serves to bolster a sense of security and sturdiness. Large bi-xenon headlights set off a chirpy front grille at the front, and while the more chunky looking rear may be simple on the outside, it hides one of the Mokka’s better features.
Up to 1,372 litres of boot space (that’s including dropping the rear seats) means that the Mokka offers plenty of room for a compact crossover. Roominess is something that this model does well, with a decent amount of head and leg space in the back row. The dash will feel familiar to anyone who has driven Opel’s Astra. The Intellilink entertainment system that is standard in many of Opel’s range was fitted in the model we took out.
While it’s perfectly functional, its plethora of buttons looks a little complex next to the newer and cleaner touchscreen systems that Opel has introduced in its latest range, but expect that to be overhauled in the next generation of Mokka. With the current generation, there is the choice of 1.4- or 1.6-litre diesel engines, and four different trims starting from €20,995 for the most basic. The SE model we took out was fitted with the 1.6-
Storage is one of the better features of Opel’s solid-looking Mokka, with its boot space – up to 1.372 litres – adding to its general feeling of spaciousness
litre engine and proved to be plenty of power for getting around town. While the Mokka has 4-wheel drive options, realistically, this is not the kind of car that is going to go off-road. The current generation of Mokka utilises Opel’s “whisper diesel” engine that significantly reduces the amount of in-cabin
engine noise. Emission-friendly, it also drops the Mokka into the much more attractive A4 tax band, which works out at €200 per year. With the potential of plenty of driver luxuries, including a descent control system (if you do decide to venture off the beaten path), hill start assist, and adaptive light-
ing, the Mokka turns out to be a pretty enjoyable ride. For those seeking the more diminutive crossovers, the market may ultimately turn into a niche one – with the Mokka poised to be a big fish in a small pond. (Base model from €20,995; test model, €30,561.)
26 dundrum Gazette 7 April 2016
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SPORT Arthur’s aim to be king of Rio
FastSport
pentathlon: donnybrook man’s multi-faceted approach to Olympics
creagh says shels will bounce back:
REBECCA Creagh believes Shelbourne Ladies can pick themselves up from the Continental Tyres Women’s National League Shield final defeat last week and land trophies. “I don’t feel great to be honest,” admitted Creagh having seen her side lose out to Wexford Youths AFC by Edel Kennedy’s solitary goal. “It’s unfortunate and you never like to lose, but we’ll suck it up and we’ll go for the big one [the League].” Shels lie in fourth place in the Continental Tyres Women’s National League table five points behind UCD Waves, though they have a game in hand. They also have a WNL Cup semi-final to look forward to on April 27. “We know we’re still in with a shot,” explained Creagh. “Galway were on top of the League two weeks ago and look at what happened. The League is wide open and I know for sure we’ll bounce back.”
james hendicott sport@dublingazette.com
ARTHUR Lanigan O’Keeffe is the reigning European champion at the five-sport event of pentathlon and the 24-year-old Dub has every intention of grabbing Olympic glory this summer, too. His training schedule currently hits six training sessions a day, five and a half days a week, and involves spending half of every day inside a purpose-built altitude simulation tent set at 2,150 metres, in order to turbo-charge his level of red blood cells. Lanigan O’Keeffe, who is prepping for his second Olympics, is leaving no stone unturned.
His recent trip to Rio for a rare competition has all been factored into preparation, with the former UCD student examining every aspect of the city’s facilities. “I’ve already adapted my training,” he told GazetteSport. “I’m taking into account the light conditions at the shooting range, the height of the starting blocks at the swimming pool and the type of horses we’ll have access to.” Of the five sports – running, swimming, shooting, show jumping and fencing – the Donnybrook man is particularly focused on the fencing, preparation which is a fine art. “It’s the one area where you can directly take points off your
opponents,” he explains. “Every area is important, but if you can do well in the fencing, you’re going to be up there. “I’m being very careful where I fight, because ahead of the Olympics people are getting very clever with preparation. “Coaches are filming each other fighting and taking it back so their athletes can go home and learn how to fight you,” he explains. “I won’t be fighting much in public ahead of the Olympics. I think it’ll help me if people don’t know what I’m doing.” Inevitably, Lanigan O’Keeffe is an impressive all-around athlete. He was part of a Munster rugby development squad and, earlier, a national swim-
Irish pentathlete Arthur Lanigan-O’Keeffe
ming development squad before he relocated to the UK and focus on modern pentathlon during his late teenage years. He describes his current condition as “doing everything I can to peak in a few months time”. “I think gold is more than realistic,” he said. “Everyone’s at a high standard, but the Olympics is something different. “It’s important I had the experience in 2012 [when Lanigan O’Keeffe was
drafted in at late notice for London, after a Polish athlete received a drug ban]. The Olympics is different; there are cameras all over your face. There’s spectators times 10, more rules, more pressure.” Lanigan O’Keeffe’s support comes in part from Nissan, who have included him in their Next Generation program as an ambassador. In exchange, O’Keeffe drives a new Qashqai and joined a prestigious team of young people Lanigan
O’Keeffe says has helped with his belief. The program is now open for new applicants, both athletes and other young high achievers, until May 10 at www.nissangenerationnext.ie. Lanigan O’Keeffe, meanwhile, has been on the podium at every major event over the last couple of years, and seems to be flying under the radar as a potentially huge Irish gold in Rio. What’s beyond doubt is that he’s got an eye on every fraction.
Rock keep alive survival hopes with Shannon victory sport@dublingazette.com
Blackrock College ensured that their battle to avoid relegation will go down to the wire
BLACKROCK College consigned Shannon to their fifth defeat in a row in the Ulster Bank league Division 1B as the hosts triumphed 21-19 in another match that went right down to the wire. Both of these sides are yet to confirm their place in Division 1B for next season, so it was no surprise that the first half was a tight and edgy affair. Rock led 9-8 at half-time thanks to three penalties from goal-kicking scrum half Jack
O’Carroll, who struck the ball really well in the heavy conditions. Shannon’s left winger Greg O’Shea tore clear to score an excellent individual try, and he completed his brace out wide early in the second half. However, despite a combination nine-point tally from penalties converted by Ronan McKenna and replacement Tadhg Bennett (2), missed kicks came back to haunt Shannon in the end. M c K e n n a a n d o u t- h a l f Shane Airey both misfired on
a couple of occasions and that allowed Blackrock to build pressure once again. Their well-organised maul forced a penalty try which was converted for 16-13. Bennett squared things up for Marcus Horan’s men and added another penalty in the closing stages but, in between, Blackrock flanker Sam Cooke burst free on the left wing to run in the game’s decisive try. Just two points in arrears, Shannon missed another shot at the posts in the dying minutes and Rock held on for a
gritty victory. A similar result will be needed away to Dublin University on April 16, as Emmet Farrell’s charges actually slipped to ninth place following UL Bohs’ bonus point success against Belfast Harlequins. It makes for a thrilling final round of fixtures with four clubs covered by just two points between sixth place and ninth. Dolphin and Shannon both sit on 34 points with UL Bohs and Blackrock looking to overhaul them, two points worse off on 32 points.
7 April 2016 dundrum gazette 29
Gazette
Higgins races into whole new Galaxie Famous drummer claims laurels at the recent Vartry 100 mile event as the ultra-marathon bug bites hard. He tells GAZETTESPORT about the origins of his gruelling pastime james hendicott sport@dublingazette.com
ALASTAIR Higgins is well known around Dublin as the drummer in boisterous dance-club band Le Galaxie. As his day job, the longtime Dublin resident tours clubs and adds beats to festival stages in Ireland and abroad, with his band’s second album Le Club peaking at number eight in the Irish album charts. Beside his musical ambitions, though, Higgins has been crafting notable ability as a distance runner, culminating in winning the Varty 100 mile (161km) race in Roundwood, County Wicklow in late March. He finished the looped course in a time of 17
hours and 17 minutes. It’s been a long journey, but Higgins start wasn’t quite so ambitious. “I fell off my bike, and I was having a little trouble with my knee. “After a year, it still wasn’t right, and I went to a physio who pointed out that I was doing a lot of exercise, but not really putting any weight on the knee. He suggested running,” he tells GazetteSport. From his first 5km race in 2011, Higgins progressed to marathons in 2012 and ultra-marathons a year later. The 100 miles in Wicklow was his longest race to date, one that he felt he’d prepared for “to a certain extent” through a series of 50 mile races. “I knew to expect
despair and about when to expect it,” he explained. “It came at about half way which, fortunately, was also when I found out I was leading, which offset that a bit. “I had thought I was in second or third but, over this kind of distance, people drop out. Keith White, who is the Irish 100 mile world record holder, had had to drop out injured. “I hadn’t really been thinking about winning,” he admits. “I was just concentrating on finishing in a good time. You get through the night with coffee and energy drinks. In some races like this, you would stop for a half hour nap but only if you have to.” In term of training, Higgins typically covers around 100 miles a week
Alastair Higgins with his winners trophy at the Vartry Lakes 100 miles race.
ahead of races like this before tapering his training in preparation for the race. The tapering process starting three to four weeks before a race. He describes 90 kilometres as a “light week”, and says he’s always the first up, even on tour, to fit in a
While many races call themselves the “world’s toughest”, Badwater is difficult to the point of dangerous, and has a genuine claim. Less than 10 people have ever finished in under 24 hours, and by far the majority of starters don’t
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‘You get through the night with coffee and energy drinks. You only stop for a nap if you have to’ - Alastair Higgins
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couple of hours training. “It means a lot of early mornings,” he says. “I remember being mid-song during a Whelan’s residency – where it’s a real sweatbox – and my heart just racing,” Higgins says, thinking back to his pre-running days. His fitness ambitions are astonishingly lofty now, though, with famed ultra-distance race Badwater on the agenda. “That’s long term,” Higgins admits, eyeing more ‘modest’ (eye-wateringly difficult) challenges in the meantime. Badwater, Death Valley’s killer event, is notorious in ultra-marathon circles: 135 miles, 45 degree plus heat in the limited shade and thousands of feet of elevation gain, all starting at below sea level and finishing atop a peak.
finish at all. Targets, then, are extreme: there’s also the 100 mile world championship - taking place in Ireland in 2017 - to look forward to. As Higgins polished off his win in Wicklow, his MP3 player spun towards the end of a 10-hour playlist he’d put together for the event. Having spent the early parts of the race chatting to other runners, he couldn’t have planned the track that would accompany his final strides: the only one he’d included from his own band. Four days after his win, Higgins says he can “feel it. You always think you’re going to go home and have a burger and a beer. I think I had a bit of hypothermia, though, and I didn’t even want to eat properly until the next day.” Naturally, he’s already back running.
FastSport
UCD close in on sailing’s clean sweep over Trinity UCD Sailing Team won the 2016 Colours Sailing Championships in Dun Laoghaire, seeing off Trinity College last Saturday in a close-run contest. The Belfield outfit also won the ladies competition, the alumni competition and the Gold Fleet. Indeed, UCD have won every national university sailing event so far this year Robbie Hynes, from UCD Sailing Club, said his club are looking to complete the clean sweep in the coming days: “UCD have won every national university sailing event so far this year, with the final event – the Student Yachting Nationals – this coming Friday so here’s hoping.” Elsewhere, Howth Yacht Club hosted the ISA Youth Pathway National Championship and Optimist Trials over the four days in varied conditions, attracting 192 entries across five classes. When Thursday’s racing got going after a wind delay, in the 420 class, local favourites Elmes/O’Sullivan had it their own way with two bullets, setting up their victory. The laser radial top spot was shared by O’Beirne (Royal St George YC), Durcan and Nicole Hemeryck (National YC). Over on the topper course, the RStGYC was again dominating, with Jack Fahy burning up the course. Day two fell victim to the elements with strong and increasing winds keeping the fleet ashore. With a window of opportunity in the weather, the fleets headed afloat on Saturday, hoping to catch up on the schedule with a few additional races. On the 420/Laser Radial course, four races were crammed in, suiting Malahide 420 duo Gemma and Cara McDowell. The sisters closed the gap to the leaders and ended the day only a point adrift of Elmes/ O’Sullivan and went on to claim the girls title. Radial and 4.7 gurus O’Beirne and Higgins never fell outside the top three for the day and won their respective crowns. On the topper course, Carroll was fighting off a strong challenge from another Hemeryck, this time Ella who was only a couple of points behind in the final reckoning on Sunday.
Gazette
30 DUNDRUM gazette 7 April 2016
SPORT
FastSport
rugby: buccaneers hold the aces in race for promotion spot
Firhouse Clover LSL title bid suffers big setback FIRHOUSE Clover’s poor run of form continued as the title-challengers were swatted aside by strugglers Home Farm at IT Tallaght. The visitors – second bottom of the LSL Sunday Senior at kick off – had only beaten one side outside of the division’s bottom three all season in mid-table Drumcondra before arriving in Tallaght but stubborn defence and clinical finishing saw them run out 3-0 winners. The game got off to a scrappy start in soggy conditions, with Clover grabbing much of the early possession but showing little cutting edge in a scrappy midfield battle. Clover – who still sit within touching distance of the top of the LSL Sunday Senior division – have now taken a single point from three games since the March break, with this latest defeat the most damning. Gerry Bambrick – a key figure up front throughout – put Home Farm ahead in a gritty first half, slotting past Paddy Reilly in the Clover goal with a neat low finish from the north side club’s first attack of note. Clover’s early positivity, if anything, was proving their downfall. Playing an open game which centred around their bright wingers, the home side committed players forward but couldn’t find a way past the visitor’s packed defence. In contrast, Home Farm used their limited possession to huge effect. Mark Behan added a second just before half time, his finish crossing the line ahead of two lunging Clover defenders after it trickled past Reilly during a break somewhat typical of the game. Eamon Moynihan’s third for Home Farm also came against the run of play as Clover started the second half with a series of corners. It was the pick of the bunch. With the ball falling to the midfield man 25 yard from goal, he swung his boot at a dropping ball and slammed a dipping volley past Reilly in the Clover goal whose touch on the ball wasn’t enough to keep it out of the top corner. Long periods of Clover dominance offered little result as the game petered out to a comfortable Home Farm win.
Old Wesley in action against Buccaneers last Saturday. Picture: Ken Richardson
Wesley playoff hopes hit ubl division 1b Buccaneers Old Wesley sport@dublingazette.com
25 9
OLD Wesley fell 25-9 to Buccaneers to seriously harm their chances of making a play-off position in Ulster Bank League Division 1B. It came in their final trip out of the capital last weekend for the season when they made the journey to Dubarry Park in Athlone. The loss moves Buccaneers above the Donnybrook club in fourth spot, Old Wesley now lying in fifth position on 43 points in Division 1B
with hopes of a play-off finish damaged hugely by an opposition that was stronger, more skilled and displayed greater hunger. Played in damp conditions on a nevertheless firm pitch, the hosts looked to have been given a dream start when a Rory Stynes clearance was blocked down but Wesley escaped with a 22 drop-out. Despite this, it was Wesley that were first on the scoreboard with an Ian Cassidy penalty kick after Iain McCann brought play into opposition territory. Buccaneers levelled on nine minutes with a penalty before Cassidy
aussie rules South Dublin Swans take on Europe’s finest the south Dublin Swans reached the semi-final of the Australian Rules European Champions League in Amsterdam thanks to wins over Russia’s Koalas (62-7), the Zagreb Dockers (24-14) and Sweden’s Sodermalm (28-26). That saw them top their group but their winning run came to an end against the West London Wildcats, the reigning champions, in the semi-final. And, with legs tiring, they missed out on a medal at the hands of the Hamburg Dockers in the bronze match.
struck again to make it 6-3 approaching the end of the first quarter. The conditions were starting to cause problems for Wesley, leading to a number of handling errors and the Athlone men were only denied a try only for a forward pass. A miskicked clearance, however, fell nicely into the hands of winger Eoghan O’Reilly who beat his opposite man to sprint nearly 50 metres for the first try of the game. It gave Buccs an 8-6 halftime lead. Playing into the wind in the second half proved to be a major challenge for Wes. The host kicked
an early penalty goal to extend their lead to 11-6 and it was becoming harder and harder to foresee a win for Wesley. In a rare run into opposition territory, a scoring opportunity looked peripherally on the horizon. The try did not materialise however, but when awarded a penalty under the posts Cassidy wisely went for the points, narrowing the gap to 9-11. That score signalled the end of Wesley’s purple patch as the opposition began to turn the screw. Buccs took three line-outs in a row against the head, the last of which led to a try by Cian Romaine. The
conversion made it 18-9. Old Wesley continued to absorb enormous pressure and although the opposition conceded a number of late penalties, Conor Finn ran unopposed for the last score of the match with Wesley now clinging on to an outside chance of an allelusive play-off place. With nine points between them and Shannon, Wesley will finish no lower than fifth position, with fourth spot still possible by means of a win in their last match against UL Bohemians. They also require other results to go their way, however.
7 April 2016 DUNDRUM gazette 31
Gazette
website launch
Crokes integrate all sections to new site
Club Noticeboard Ballinteer st john’s
april 1 marked a significant day in the life
of Kilmacud Crokes’ online presence as the club launched their redesigned website, integrating all the sections under one umbrella site rather than the four sites that existed previously. The project was part of the club’s strategic plan and provides an enhanced platform to record and communicate, in digital form, all of the events in the club.
GREAT wins for our seniors and
night. Tickets are available online at
junior A footballers at the weekend
www.ballinteerstjohns.com or from
against St Pat’s of Donabate and St
the usual outlets.
Sylvester’s.
ladies football: ringsend side prevail in div 4
clubhouse starts at 8pm and all are
31 lotto draw for €4,200. The jackpot
welcome for a great night’s enter-
will be €4,400 next week.
tainment.
Our Joker Wild draw continues this
Download the Clubify app now to
Thursday; it is open to lotto play-
get all your BSJ news, info, fixtures
ers present in the clubhouse on the
and results directly to your phone.
naomh olaf OUR Feile ladies footballers were
goal and two points. Hard luck to
unbeaten on Saturday in the Division 4
our two Dublin camogie stars Roisin
Feile in Man O War in atrocious condi-
MacLoughlin and Chloe Kelly Mc Don-
tions.
ald. The girls played Kilkenny in a must
They played Clanna Gael Fontenoy in the final on Sunday morning and lost
feile division 4 final Clanna Gael Fontenoy 1-3 Naomh Olaf 1-0 stephen findlater sport@dublingazette.com
NAOMH Olaf were denied the Division 4 Feile title as Clanna Gael Fontenoy produced a superb final performance, using their pace and ingenuity to undo Naomh Olaf at Russell Park last Sunday. The quick feet of the diminutive Lauren and Ella Darcy – daughters of Dublin selector Declan – proved tricky to handle and their combination played a huge part
in their success. For Olaf’s, captain Molly Daly, Lucy Byrne and Louise Bennett battled hard but they could not find a regular path through the Ringsend side’s defences. Julie Grimes, for the Sandyford side, struck the post in the third minute as they pushed on in the early phases. At the far end, Grace Shanahan made a great stop from a low-slung shot as the play went from end to end. Clanna Gael took the lead in the eighth minute with Lauren Darcy’s searing pace creating the inroads before she
worked the ball to Aoibhe Walsh who cleared the bar. Ella Darcy, Holly Lewis and Megan Dunne combined with another lovely interchange but, once again, Shanahan kept Clanna Gael at bay. But she could not stop Ella Darcy from finishing off the game’s first goal in the 14th minute from the penalty line. Ali Griffin’s interception created it, nicking in ahead of her marker before getting the ball in to Ella Bruton whose shot was foiled illegally. It allowed Darcy to step up and record a 1-1
to no score half-time lead. Lauren Darcy handpassed over the bar to extend the lead before Olaf’s launched a comeback. Laoise O’Shea made two huge blocks but, from the third barrage of attacks, a penalty was awarded for a footblock and Bennett picked out the bottom corner. It put the tie right back in the mix with chances at either end but Megan Dunne eventually got that extra bit of insurance when she pointed following Ella Darcy’s assist in the 26th minute and they held on from there on in.
two points. In their third league match, the
hearts out and Naomh Olaf are very
minor hurlers gave a really good per-
proud of each one of them. Thanks to
formance on Sunday morning against
all the supporters over the two days.
Round Tower in Naomh Olaf’s. Round
Naomh Olaf junior footballers
Tower were four points up after 10
played St Brendan’s in their league
minutes but, with resolute defending
game on Sunday and won comfortably
and good team work, the Olaf’s lads
5-15 to 0-5. The senior footballers lost
moved ahead and won convincingly,
out to Na Fianna on Saturday evening
4-12 to 1-10.
0-8.
Olaf’s undone in Feile finale by Clanna Gael
win game on Sunday but lost by just
by just three points. They played their
in Mobhi Road in bad conditions, 1-2 to
Naomh Olaf’s Alannah Cullen moves to block Clanna Gael Fontenoy’s Zara Lynch. Picture: Peter Hickey/GAAPics.com
Bingo every Monday night in the
There was no winner of the March
In a game of two halves, the U-15 hurlers led by 12 points at half time in
Our young stars were out again
their league match against Crumlin on
for Dublin this weekend with mixed
Sunday morning. Crumlin came back
results. David Byrne put in another
strongly to draw level but the Olaf’s
fine performance for the Dublin sen-
lads worked hard, tackled well and
ior football team in their win over Ros-
came through in the end with a last
common. Dublin will now play Donegal
minute goal; final score Olaf’s 3-15 (24)
in the Allianz League Semi final in Croke
Crumlin 6-3 (21).
Park on April 10.
Best of luck to two members of this
The Dublin minor ladies football-
panel, Ciaran Foley and Donal Leavy,
ers are through to the Leinster final
who are part of the Dublin South juve-
after a tough match in Clane on Sat-
nile hurling panel who will play Good
urday against Kildare. Naomh Olaf’s
Counsel, Wexford on Friday in the
Clara O’Sullivan put in another great
Leinster league semi-final (venue to
performance, scoring Dublin’s only
be confirmed).
ballyboden st enda’s CONGRATULATIONS to Shane Clayton
tition and to the Ballyboden St Enda’s C
and Colm Basquel and all of the Dublin
team who lost out in the semi finals by
U-21 panel on their Leinster final vic-
a last minute goal.
tory over Kildare by 2-14 to 0-17.
The Boden Theatre Group are pre-
Congratulations to our senior
paring for their next production: A
hurlers on their win in the Leinster
Terrible Beauty Is Born. We look for-
club hurling league quarter final
ward to seeing you on April 14, 15 and
with a scoreline of 0-21 to 1-17 over St
16. For ticket reservations and enquir-
Patrick’s GAA from Kilkenny.
ies, contact Ger on 086 8516387 or Carol
The football section received more
on 086 4070015.
good news. Six of our players were
The 46th Annual General meeting
named on the club team of the year
of Ballyboden St Enda’s Gaa, Camogie
.Congratulations to Paul Durcan, Shane
and Ladies Football Club will take place
Clayton, Darragh Nelson, Michael-
on Monday, April 18 at 8.30pm in the
Darragh Macauley, Colm Basquel and
club hall.
Andrew Kerin who grabbed the title of club player of the year. Well done and thank you to all involved in this weekend’s Feile compe-
For more information on Ballyboden St Enda’s, log on to www.bodengaa. ie or follow us on Facebook and Twitter by searching Bodengaa.
32 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 7 April 2016
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