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Viewmount House in Longford is just the ticket for weary visitors

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INSIDE: TV presenter Lucy Kennedy on how the sea, and family life, help her to escape the mayhem P15

budget 2016: Minister Leo Varadkar sets out plans for better health Page 10

Camogie:

Boden edge out Crokes in Senior 3 decider Page 30

President Higgins’s aide de camp, Col Michael Tiernan, and

Rugby:

McKinley seeks support to play in Ireland again Page 29

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ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES..................... 10 DUBLIN LIFE................... 13 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................28

Sinn Fein party leader Gerry Adams were among the many The town fell silent and people lined the streets as the funeral cortege quietly passed by. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

dignitaries paying their respects

Tears as coffins pass Bray community gathers in solemn silence to pay their respects to five Carrickmines blaze victims

 aisling kennedy

HEARTBREAKING scenes unfolded at the funerals of Willy Lynch, his wife Tara Gilbert, their daughters Jodie and Kelsey, and Willy’s brother, J i m my L y n c h , a t t h e Church of the Most Holy

Redeemer in Bray this week. A community, united in grief, gathered to bury the victims of the Carrickmines tragedy at a mass presided over by Fr Derek Farrell, parish priest of the Parish of the Travelling People. Hundreds of mourners

attended the funeral and watched as the three silver coffins and two small white coffins were poignantly laid out in a row at the top of the church, showing the unity of the close-knit family. Family members of the Lynch and Gilbert families broke down through-

out the mass as Fr Farrell read touching tributes to the family who were “very happy and very loving”. Of the tragedy, he said: “There are no words, no words to take away the pain.” Full Story on Pages 6-7

4 DUNDRUM Gazette 22 October 2015

brussels: delegation

Halawa to get public hearing  aisling kennedy

A public hearing on the case of Ibrahim Halawa will be held in the European Parliament in Brussels this week by Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan. Halawa, who is the son of the Imam of Clonskeagh mosque, has been held in an Egyptian jail for over two years as part of the notorious mass trials against 420 people who have been accused of a number of crimes including murder, attempted murder, and taking part in a banned protest against the ouster of President Mohamed Morsi in July 2013. Halawa was arrested for taking part in the banned protest. Boylan said: “He has no hope of getting a fair trial. His case has been postponed nine times and his family are becoming increasingly concerned for both his mental and

physical health. “I am bringing this issue to Europe because not only is he an Irish citizen, he is also the only European political prisoner in Egypt. The EU is a trading partnerwith Egypt and the current Egyptian government have breached their human rights obligations under this trade agreement by placing a juvenile in arbitrary detention.” Boylan said that she would host a delegation of activists fighting for the release of Halawa in Brussels this week where Halawa’s sister Somaia, his lawyer Darragh Mackin, and Ciaran Sutter from Reprieve will speak on behalf of Halawa. Boylan said: “This delegation is particularly poignant as it takes place just days after Ibrahim’s trial was postponed for the ninth time. His new trial date is December 15, two days after his 20th birthday.”

heritage Free entry until October 26

Minister of State Simon Harris officially reopened Rathfarnham Castle, which has undergone substantial works. Picture: Failte Ireland

Rathfarnham Castle treasures revealed

 aisling kennedy

RATHFARNHAM Castle was officially re-opened last week following extensive restoration and conservation works. The closure of the castle last year and the ongoing works resulted in a remarkable find of a large amount of priceless artefacts dating back to the

17th century. More than 18,000 different items were discovered in the castle, including lead-crystal drinking glasses; glass figurines; monogrammed wine bottles; coins; porcelain from China; cutlery; seeds and pips from exotic fruits; fish and bird bones; items for costume; bobbins for lacemaking; jars which

may contain cosmetics, and a folding toothbrush. The hoard was discovered by construction workers installing a lift shaft at the castle when a sealed lair between two stone floors at the bottom of one of the castle towers became apparent. At the time, Alva MacGowan, find supervisor with Archaeology Plan, the organisation commissioned by the Office of Public Works (OPW) to deal with the hoard, said the “absolutely superb” preservation of the artefacts was every “archaeologist’s dream”. Simon Harris, Minister of State with special responsibility for the OPW, re-opened the castle last week and said: “These works carried out by my office, the OPW, now makes this wonderful castle accessible to all. “They also led to the remarkable discovery last year of artefacts in the flanker of the castle which has shed light on the lives led in this castle over the centuries. Any of the four

flankers could have been chosen by my office for these works, so it was a lucky find indeed.” The original castle at Rathfarnham dates back to the Elizabethan period (1583) and was built for Archbishop Adam Loftus, who came to Ireland as chaplain to the Lord Deputy, and quickly rose to become Archbishop of Armagh and Dublin, Lord Chancellor of Ireland, First Provost and founder of Trinity College Dublin, and Queen Elizabeth’s chief envoy to Ireland. The artefacts that were discovered are currently being conserved in the National Museum of Ireland. It is hoped that the OPW, in conjunction with the National Museum, will eventually showcase an exhibition at the castle of some of the archaeological finds. The restoration works carried out at the castle include the provision of a new lift and staircase, new rest facilities and upgrading of doors and floors for fire resistance, as well as the provision of

external ramps and steps to allow level access to a new entrance point. People can now visit the renovated castle to see the historic ground floor which once housed the original 16th century kitchens, and also see the original structural features that were uncovered during the excavations. In conjunction with the re-opening of the castle, a solo retrospective exhibition by renowned artist Brian Ballard is currently on display along with modern ceramics that will be displayed throughout the building. This first exhibition is inspired by historic references to the presence of fine ceramics in Rathfarnham Castle. Speaking at the reopening of the castle, Minister Harris said: “I am delighted to re-open Rathfarnham, and to mark this occasion, entry into the castle will be free of charge for the next 10 days [until October 26]. This will give visitors the opportunity to come and rediscover the castle in its restored glory.”

22 October 2015 DUNDRUM Gazette 5

sandyford

music: ballinteer Group invited by Sistine chapel choir

A new base for Sage

Choir set to sing at pontifical mass  aisling kennedy

St John’s Gospel Choir from Ballinteer will this Sunday sing at the pontifical mass in St Peter’s Basilica, Rome. The gospel choir from St John the Evangelist Church, Ballinteer was invited by the Sistine Chapel Choir to sing this weekend as part of the closing of the Synod on the Family. The mass will be celebrated by Pope Francis together with bishops of the world including the Archbishop of Dublin, Diarmuid Martin. A spokesperson for St John’s Gospel Choir told the Gazette: “We are honoured and privileged to participate in this special moment of grace

during the pontificate of Pope Francis, especially after the Holy Father’s announcement in Philadelphia that the next Catholic World Meeting of Families will take place in Dublin in 2018.” The choir, which currently has more than 70 members, was established in Ballinteer six years ago. The spokesperson said that the choir “hopes to sing up to four hymns before mass – A Mhuire Mhathair, Amazing Grace, Thou oh Lord and Jerusalem”. It is believed that the choir may be the first group to sing a hymn in Irish in St Peter’s Basilica and the spokesperson said that it seemed appropriate this should happen in

2015 as this year marks the 1400th anniversary of the death of St Columbanus in Bobbio, near Genoa in Italy. T he spokesperson said: “St Columbanus is remembered as one of the greatest of all the Irish missionaries as he dedicated his life to preaching the Gospel and establishing monasteries in Europe.” St John’s Gospel Choir will sing at the pontifical mass on Sunday, October 25 at 10.30am. The choir sing at 12.30 pm Mass in St John the Evangelist in Ballinteer on two Sundays every month and at Christmas and Easter. Rehearsals are held in the Church every Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9pm.

An armful of enthusiasm: Welcoming club’s continued sponsorship deal RORY Kearns liked the fun atmosphere at Ballyboden, St Enda’s GAA club “this much” when he helped to celebrate the club’s renewed sponsorship by Ballymount building and DIY suppliers TJ O’Mahony recently. The official launch of the new sponsorship took place at the club grounds last weekend, with the local firm happy to take the opportunity to also help to build even stronger ties and GAA teams within the community. Adding to the fun, there was a surprise visit by the famous Dulux Dog, which attracted lots of admiration from the young up and coming players at the club. Picture: Geraldine Woods

Sandyford is set to see a boost in jobs with the news that Sage, the second largest business in its field in Europe, will set up its new base in the area. Sage will create new roles in sales, marketing and services to provide support for its products for small business accounting, payments and payroll solutions. The company already has a Dublin operation with 250 employees and it has 1.8 million customers in Europe. Deputy Alan Shatter (FG) said: “This will further boost employment opportunities for those who live in Dublin Rathdown; and further add to the vibrancy and prestige of Sandyford Business Park as a technology centre of excellence.”

6 DUNDRUM Gazette 22 October 2015

tragedy Community turns out en masse to pay their final

Heartbreak as family  aisling kennedy

A COMMUNITY was united in grief this week at the funerals of Willy Lynch, his wife Tara Gilbert, their daughters Jodie and Kelsey, and Willy’s brother, Jimmy Lynch. The family who died as a result of a fire in their halting site in Carrickmines almost a fortnight ago were laid to rest in a ceremony presided over by Fr Derek Farrell, parish priest of the Parish of the Travelling People at the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer in Bray. The sadness surrounding the tragedy was palpable throughout Bray on the morning of the funeral, with mourners from all across Ireland

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A message from Pope Francis was also read out at the mass, in tribute to the family. It read: “Pope Francis, having learned of the horrific fire in Carrickmines, expresses his deep sadness over this terrible time.”

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pouring into the church to pay their respects. Among some of the delegates who attended the funeral were Tanaiste Joan Burton and Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams, while the President was represented by his aide de camp, Col Michael Tiernan. Many of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown’s

county councillors also attended the funeral. The funeral spilled out of the church and many local people lined the main street in Bray as a mark of respect for the five family members. As the coffins of Willy (25), Tara (27), who was six months pregnant with the couple’s third child, Jodie aged nine, four-year-

old Kelsey and Jimmy (39) arrived in their hearses, people bowed their heads and blessed themselves as they drove by. It was only when the little white coffins of Jodie and Kelsey arrived at the church that people all along the road and inside the church broke down in tears at the sight. As the five coffins were laid out at the top of the church side by side, Father Farrell stepped up to the altar and offered the prayers and support of the congregation to the members of the Gilbert and Lynch families. He said: “Saturday, October 10 2015 will forever be remembered as a horrific and tragic day in the history of our country.

Jimmy Lynch’s remains on their final jouney. Picture: Geraldine Woods

There are no words ... no words to take away the pain. No words to restore what has been lost.” Fr Farrell spoke highly of the family and said they were very happy and very loving. “Willy cherished

what he called his three girls – Tara, Kelsey and Jodie. He brought the girls everywhere with him. Kelsey stuck like a magnet to Willy, always wanting to be close to her daddy. Jodie meant the world to

Sympathisers

Willy as well. “Tara was the boss, in the best possible way. When it came to the care of her family and taking care of others, she took charge. Beautiful inside and out.

Stand-off by locals at Rockfield Drive persists  aisling kennedy

THE stand-off between r e s i d e n t s o f R o c kfield Drive off Glenamuck Road and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is continuing this week with neither side agreeing to reach a resolution. On Tuesday last week, residents of Rockfield Drive blocked access to a site at the top of the estate that was due to undergo works to set up temporary accommodation for the three s u r v i v i n g Tr ave l l e r families caught up in the Carrickmines fire recently. Residents were upset with the lack of the consultation from the council after they received a letter through their door at 9am on Tuesday

informing them that the council would be arriving in an hour to set up the temporary accommodation. Since the blockade at the estate, residents and members of the council have been involved in a number of meetings over the course of the week to plan how the two sides will move forward. As of yet, no resolution has been reached.

Discussions A spokesperson for the council told the Gazette, however, that “progress has been made during lengthy discussions with the residents of Rockville Drive over the last number of days”. T he spokesperson continued: “There

remain a number of outstanding issues which require further clarification and discussion, and work will continue on these issues. “Ever yone is conscious of the need to provide an emergency site for the families of last week’s tragedy as soon as possible.” One local resident, who did not want to be named, told the Gazette that this past week has been upsetting for everyone involved. T he resident said: “We have been vilified by the national media and people from all around Ireland. It has been very distressing for all the residents. “People have told us to our faces that if they were in the same situation they would

react the same way, but nobody will say that out loud.” The resident explained that they are not “anti-Traveller”, but that they were upset with the lack of communication initially from the council. Other local residents have identified a site next to Stepaside Golf Course as a potential alternative, and also a further two within the existing halting site at Ballyogan Grove. Geraldine Dunne, director of the Southside Traveller Action Group, said: “I would hope this situation can be resolved in the best interest of the families in this crisis situation so that they can start to piece their lives back together.”

22 October 2015 DUNDRUM Gazette 7

respects to Carrickmines victims

laid to rest and teachers from Jodie’s school lined the bridge, clutching white roses. Picture: Aisling Kennedy

“Jimmy, brother of Willy, was very popular and loved by family and friends. He had a heart of gold, and being very good with his hands he liked to fix things, especially fix things for other people.” A message from Pope Francis was also read out at the mass, in tribute to the family. It read: “Pope Francis, having learned of the horrific fire in Carrickmines, expresses his deep sadness over this terrible time.

Sympathy “The Holy Father prays especially for all the members of the Gilbert, Lynch and Connors families, and he wishes to ensure all their family members and their friends, and the whole Traveller community, of his spiritual closeness and sympathy at this very, very difficult time.” Throughout the ceremony, songs and hymns were sung, including Amazing Grace and Hallelujah, while the Lynch and Gilbert families held hands, comforted each other, and held their children that bit tighter. Members of the Lynch and Gilbert families both spoke at the end of the mass to thank people for being so kind during their ordeal. As the crowds exited the church, I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston resounded throughout the walls and

the streets as mourners once again lined the thoroughfares. At a bridge towards the end of the town, a row of teachers from Jodie’s school stood clutching white roses as they each cried, thinking

of the little girl and the horrific circumstances in which she died. As the hearses of the three adults and two children passed through the town, everybody stopped and people came out of

their houses and offices, all watching the poignant sight of the two small white coffins driving away into the distance to be laid to rest with their parents and uncle in Springfield Cemetery.

8 DUNDRUM Gazette 22 October 2015

gazetteGALLERIES

Ellen Pluck and Sean Murray receive flag and proclamation from Lieutenant Deirdre Fahy and Sergeant Wayne Eastwood

Lt Deirdre Fahy and Sgt Wayne Eastwood raise the flag with a little help from school principal Kathleen Byrne

Parents Emma-Jane Mulvey and Aisling Cannon

Ben O’Regan and Isabelle Rapple with the flag before it was raised

John Swan and James Campbell - were amongst the parents who attended the event

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Lt Fahy an d Sgt Wayne Eastwood enjoy bein g back in school for a day

22 October 2015 DUNDRUM Gazette 9

heritage: COMMEMORATING THE PAST

Flying the flag for 1916’s events P

UPILS at St Patrick’s National School gave their full attention to the arrival of members of the Defence Forces to raise the Tricolour as part of the preparations for the 1916 commemoration ceremonies next year. Once the formalities were out of the way, everyone was at ease and in full voice for a rousing rendition of the National Anthem. Members of the Defence Forces will deliver an Irish flag to every primary school in the country over the coming months. For more information see www.military.ie/info-centre/defence-forces-2016/flags-for-schoolsinitiative/#sthash.WLVXfMZI.dpuf

Nicola Coughlan nursed War of Independence veterans in and pupil Ben O’Regan. Pictures: Rose Comiskey

Leopardstown Park Hospital

Martin and Therese Murphy with Valerie Snow and Brady Treacy

10 DUNDRUM Gazette 22 October 2015

budget 2016 Pros and cons of health and pension elements ‘Changes to the State pension do very little to alleviate the difficulties many people face’

‘Our health plans are making a difference’  leo varadkar

Minister for Health  Sean Moynihan

Chief executive, Alone

WHAT problems is this budget trying to solve? If the Government wanted to target and effectively aid older people in need, as opposed to pleasing everyone – they would have acted very differently. Whilst Alone welcome increases to the pension, and the Christmas bonus, they do very little to alleviate the very difficult situations that some of Ireland’s most vulnerable older people find themselves in. Some 160,000 people have turned 65 since the recessionary 2009 budget. Yet, since then, the telephone allowance has been abolished, the fuel allowance season cut by six weeks, and the household benefits package reduced to a single rate. In addition to these cuts, many older people are being crippled by the prescription charge – a direct tax on our sick – which the Government has made no move to eradicate. A person living on the State pension is now down €700 since 2008 in allowance and benefits. This is without taking the rising costs of living and increases in charges and taxes into account. Our work centres on aiding people to age at home with the right supports. This budget has nothing outlined in terms of housing for older people and rent supports, which is concerning as 50% of all calls to Alone are about housing, and older people are the group most at risk from raised rents. The latest Daft.ie rental report revealed that the average cost for one-bed accommodation in Dublin City is over €500 a month, which is completely unaffordable for an older person surviving on the Government pension.

Alone has been campaigning for many years to highlight the fact that older people are the next big housing crisis. Older people can’t compete in the private rental market as they are not seen as attractive tenants by landlords in the private rented sector. The Government needs to provide alternative housing options for these people. This Government continues to push older people into nursing homes ahead of their time, when in reality independent living with supports is a cheaper option for the taxpayer, and it is the preferred option for many older people. At Alone, we believe every older person has the right to age safely, healthily and happily in their communities, and this budget does not ensure these basic rights. Alone can be contacted at 01 679 1032 for those who have concerns about their own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of a vulnerable older person in the community. Alternatively, see www.alone.ie.

Sean Moynihan: “A person living on the State pension is now down €700 since 2008 in allowance and benefits”

EARLIER this year we took the first big step towards universal healthcare with the introduction of GP care without fees for all children under six and adults aged 70 or older, regardless of income. These age groups are the ones that need to see their doctor most often. The next big step is to extend the service to children aged six to 11. Negotiations are already under way with the Irish Medical Organisation on the new, comprehensive GP contract deal with all sorts of ways to improve GP services and health care in the community. We intend to agree a new contract by the end of March 2016, and plan to provide this extended service as one of the first phases in the new contract before the end of 2016. So far, some 300,000 senior citizens and children have benefited from GP care without fees. I know this has come as a huge relief to many young families and pensioners. These are parents and seniors who work hard and have paid their taxes. I am glad they are no longer subjected to a means test. It means real savings for pensioners and families. But it is about much more than that. The new

enhanced service which is now in place covers all children under six, including those who already had medical cards. They are benefiting from better management of asthma in general practice and have their height and weight recorded to identify issues like childhood obesity early. We have also introduced a new diabetes programme for adults of all ages, meaning they can have their condition managed by the GP who knows them, rather than in the hospital clinic. Some 30,000 people have been enrolled already. All these measures are a major step forward in improving access, quality and affordability of health care in Ireland. They also mark the most tangible step forward so far along the road to universal health care. Minister [of State for Primary Care, Mental Health and Disability] Kathleen Lynch and I believe that starting off with the youngest and the oldest groups in society is the right approach, alongside those with chronic diseases. So, I also want to see further progress on chronic disease management in general practice and want to ensure that patients have better access to scans and cardiac investigations through their family doctor.

Health Minister Leo Varadkar: “I want to ensure that patients have better access to scans and cardiac investigations through their family doctor”

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‘The Government is determined to commit more resources to health and primary care every year, keeping people well in the community’

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The Government is determined to commit more resources to health and primary care every year, keeping people well in the community.

So long as we keep the economy strong and the recovery going, we will be able to generate the resources to do exactly that.

22 October 2015 DUNDRUM Gazette 11

12 Gazette 22 October 2015

gazetteGALLERY

Paul Feeny and Noreen Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Malley

Louise Costello, Chris Douglas, Sandra Keeping and Una Clifford are pictured at the first ever Solas Project Ball which was held at the Hilton Dublin Hotel on Charlemont Place. After a champagne reception, guests enjoyed a gourmet dinner before taking to the dancefloor as the party extended late into the night. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Making their mark in the finest fashion

Jennifer Kissane

Katie Tyrrell

Fateimi Zymati and Susanna Ann Spellman and Abby Demarest

Amy Carey and Emily McVicker

Ferreira

Michal Durmowicz and Alexandra Lewandowska

22 October 2015 Gazette 13

escape the mayhem 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

a day in the life: busy comedian getting ready for upcoming panto

what’son

Al’s agenda is no laughing matter  Ian Begley

One of Ireland’s campest and most outspoken comedians, Al Porter has a round-the-clock schedule of stand-up shows and is preparing for his upcoming panto production Freezin. This week, The Gazette found out what an average day for the Tallaght comedian is like. “I’m one of these people who has to set four alarms. I set one alarm as a treat for myself at 6am, then another at 7am, then at 7.30am and finally at 8am, which is when I normally get up. “I then flick on the lights and check my emails and Google my own name to see if I’m mentioned anywhere or if any senators are suing me that morning. “My day begins with a green tea, then a lemon and ginger tea, an allergy tablet and a fruit juice. I then play a bit of Abba and dance around my dog until I have to be out the door for something around 10.30am. “At the moment I’m working on a lot of different things. I’m writing a Panto at the moment with Karl Spain called Freezin which is definitely not a rip off of that Disney film.

Teenage angst is centre stage:

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‘I flick on the lights and check my emails and Google my name to see if I’m mentioned anywhere or if any senators are suing me that morning’ ----------------------------------------

“I’m also starring in it with Dustin the Turkey, which is great since he’s the only bird I fancy. “I’m also going to loads of meetings with producers and doing open cast auditions for the show. I’m also making a new TV programme for RTE 2 in November called The Al Porter Show, which is going be filmed live in the Olympia. “The meetings that I go to sound very boring, but actually they’re very fun and full of craic. I just make loads of mad requests in the hope that one of them gets chosen.” Porter added that he does standup whenever he can and after his sold out show in Vicar Street, he says that he never tires of performing on stage.

feature P16



Gazette

diary P14

Comedian Al Porter has a round-the-clock schedule of stand-up shows

“Whenever I get the opportunity, I do a bit of stand-up in one of the many comedy venues that I started out in. “Like last weekend, I popped into the Laughter Lounge and did a few minutes and met all of the comedians who I’m friends with there. “Any free time I get, I might go down to my local and a have a few pints or even to The Workmans Club

and see where the night takes me. At home I like to just browse the web and maybe order a Dominos and watch a couple of films or shows. I just finished House of Cards and Hannibal, which were deadly. “I then usually head to bed around 2am because I literally find it impossible to sleep any earlier. I only need about six hours of sleep to just about get by anyway.”

A DRAMATIC show that follows 14 Dublin city teenagers through their adolescent and tumultuous lives will be staged in the Smock Alley Theatre from October 27–31 at 7.30pm. S h o w M e Love depicts a group of youths on what seems like just another ordinary day. Hearts will break, hormones will rage and loyalties will shift as our young heroes wrestle their conflicting emotions and each other. Today they will face choices that could alter the course of their adult lives. Some will rise, others will fall. A large ensemble, multiple-narrative play, Show Me Love will explore and celebrate the ever changing, often complicated emotional life of this small group as their paths intersect and collide over the course of 24-hours on the last day of summer. Written by Colin Thornton and directed by Deirdre Molloy, tickets cost €15/€18. The show is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over. For more information, visit www.smockalley.com

14 Gazette 22 October 2015

Gazette

dublinlife Watch out for ghouls and goblins at Tayto Park ON Saturday, October 24, Tayto Park opens its doors to a fright fest in the dark. For the first time, thanks to the launch of the Tayto Park After Dark Experience, visitors will be invited to confront the darkness and ride the Cu Chulainn Coaster in the dead of the night. Racing along at more than 100km per hour and dropping more than 32m in an instant, this stomach-churning drop zone is scary enough in daylight, never mind riding it in the pitch darkness of night. As with previous years at Tayto Park, ghouls, ghosts, goblins and all things gruesome will be out and about and making their presence felt in the Tayto Park House of Horrors. Tickets for the Tayto Park After Dark Experience are €18 per person. It is not necessary to book in advance and the latest admission is 7.30pm. The Day Time House of Horrors is recommended for children over eight-years old. Again it is not necessary to book in advance. For more informa-

tion and opening times visit www.taytopark.ie/ events/halloween.

Say I Do to syrian refugee campaign A UNIQUE event to raise money in aid of Syrian refugees will take place in House, Leeson Street, on October 28. Past brides and bridesmaids from all over the country have donated their wedding and bridesmaid dresses to the initiative. The dresses will be sold at the event in aid of The Irish Red Cross Migration Crisis Appeal. The organisers of the event are now calling on all brides-to-be to come along on the day as there will be spot prizes such as waxing vouchers, cakes, make-up trial vouchers, along with some beautiful wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses donated from bridal stores, including Myrtle Ivory. There will also be a fashion show and hair and make-up tips on the day. Tickets cost €21.65 and are available to buy on www.eventbrite.ie All money raised will go towards the Irish Red Cross Migration Crisis

diary

Appeal.

floored by store’s transgender ad A FLOORING business based in Crumlin has caused quite the stir on social media after it erected a billboard featuring a photo of Caitlyn Jenner alongside the words “Fancy a Change?” According to Hamptons Floor Store, it deems the poster to be a celebration of the transgender community. However, some people have been floored by the advertising and feel like the company is taking the mickey! One woman wrote: “If it takes transphobia and cheap jokes to sell your product then you obviously do not have a very good product or need to fire your marketing team ASAP. Take this poster down.” Another person stated: “This is lowest common denominator marketing. An absolute disgrace and completely irresponsible!” In its defence, Hamptons Floor Store said the poster was a celebration of the new Ireland we’re living in, especially since the passing of the marriage equality referen-

The Cu Chulainn Coaster is scary enough without the addition of spooky ghosts. Inset: Hamptons Floor Store considers its poster to be a celebration of the transgender community

dum, which the shop is “very supportive of”. P e r h a p s i t wo u l d be more to the point were it citing the Gender Recognition Act, passed in July of this year, which gives legal recognition and rights to transgender people, whatever their sexual orientation.

croke park can be a very scary place JOIN in the family fun at the GAA Museum in Croke Park this Halloween, where a wide range of activities will take place throughout the mid-term break. From Saturday, Octo-

ber 24 to Saturday, October 31, the museum will host a Trick or Treat Trail Tour of Croke Park for younger visitors. These tours are aimed at families and younger visitors and will involve a treasure hunt as part of the stadium tour; guess the answer to the clue to collect a pumpkin, with treats for all at the end of the tour. There will also be extra stadium tours taking place from October 27 to 30. Tickets cost €12.50 for adults and €8.50 for children. This event is suitable for children aged four to

nine years. Advance online booking is required as places are limited on these popular tours. Visit www.crokeparkmuseum.tickets.ie for more information.

secret life of secrets revealed UNCOVER the world of secrets as the Science Gallery’s new exhibition reveals just how everyone holds something untold. F r o m g ove r n m e n t surveillance to Hollywood spoilers, everyone has a secret. How do scientists, hackers, spies, journal-

ists, psychologists, criminals, companies and governments approach t h i s n e w wo r l d o f secrets? From Easter eggs to cryptocurrencies, puzzles to politics, the g a l l e r y ’s e x h i b i t i o n SECRET asks: W hat needs to be revealed? And what should remain hidden? Delve into this secretive space until November 1 at the ever-intriguing Science Gallery. Admission to the exhibition is free. Visit w w w.dublin. sciencegallery.com for more information on this event.

22 October 2015 Gazette 15

Gazette

ESCAPE THE MAYHEM escape the mayhem: The Seven O’Clock Show’s lucy kennedy

It’s all boxsets, ponytails and comfy pyjamas  aisling kennedy

Lucy Kennedy is a busy lady as she juggles her life between presenting The Seven O’Clock Show on TV3 each day and taking care of her two little children, Jack and Holly. Finding time to relax and unwind in between her hectic schedule is something that is very important to her and she told The Gazette this week that she always makes sure to set aside some quiet, quality time each week. “I can’t ever really totally escape the madness because I have a five-year-old and a three-year-old and they are part of the mad, fun world I live in. As a family we go to the beach a lot and we also love to go to the park and the zoo “Most things we do are family orientated, but if it’s myself and my husband Richard we like to just get away for a break every so often. We like to get away

once every two months anywhere at all around the country.” Listing some of her favourite destinations to escape to she mentions Kelly’s Hotel in Rosslare and Galway city as favourites, but she also loves to fly away to the sun and explains that Lanzarote is her favourite sun holiday. “That’s one place in the world that I love escaping to. I need the sun, I’m definitely one of those people that’s nicer in the sun!”

Pier Lucy also likes to find peace of mind on her own time too and explains that she loves to walk up Dun Laoghaire pier in the m o r n i n g w h e n i t ’s quiet. “I’m lucky because I’ve grown up beside the sea so I’ve been near the sea all my life. I love putting a pair of runnners on and walking the pier in the morning after the school run. It’s a great way to start

the day and clear your mind.” Lucy also enjoys watching Netflix and box sets and says that she just finished watching The Good Wife. “I get home at about 8.20pm each night so after I’ve kissed Jack and Holly goodnight, I get into my pyjamas, cleanse my face, put Sudocreme on the spots, put my hair in a ponytail and watch my boxsets. “I love TV time, I love TV time on my own. As much as I love my family, I like to watch it on my own in peace and quiet, and sometimes I’ll paint my nails or fake tan, whatever I’m doing.” Lucy is also a big fan of yoga and credits it with de-stressing her. “Yoga is my biggest saviour, I love it. I do it once a week because I love talking and I’m paid to talk but I do that all day every day. So it’s the only time during the week where I actually have to be quiet!”

€5,000 prize added to VUE Art Fair THE annual VUE 2015 Art Fair returns to the Royal Hibernian Academy Gallery in Dublin from November 6 to 8, and a prestigious new award for contribution to the visual arts in Ireland has been introduced this year. The VUE Contemporary Art Prize, which is worth €5,000, is presented by Real Estate Agents, and fair spon-

sors Savills. It will be awarded at the fair to an artist who, in the preceding 12 months, has produced an outstanding body of work or some substantial contribution to visual arts. The annual fair will see leading contemporary Irish art galleries showcasing new art and recent work by Irish and international artists.

Lucy Kennedy juggles presenting The Seven O’Clock Show on TV3 each day with taking care of her two young children, Jack and Holly

Gazette

16 Gazette 22 October 2015

dublinlife

feature following: instagrammers are out and about

Snap happy people hit the city streets  aisling kennedy

Instagrammers Dublin is an up and coming community of photo enthusiasts

I n s tagr a m m e r s Dublin is an up and coming community of photo enthusiasts who upload photographs of beautiful shots from around Dublin on Instagram. The group supports local talent and it has become increasingly popular with a reach of 10,000 followers around Dublin city. Founder of Instagrammers Dublin is Sofia Delgado who is originally from Venezuela. When she moved to Dublin four years ago she noticed that there was no Instagram community in Dublin so she set about contacting Philip Gonzalez from the Instagrammers head office in Spain who advised her on how to set the official account up in Dublin. She said: “More than 50 countries and 250 cities throughout the world have an Instagrammers community. When I looked for the Dublin Instagrammers I saw there was none so I said ‘Okay, I want to create the Dublin account’. I spoke to Philip about setting it up and together we set up the official account for Dublin and now I run it. I set it up in 2012.” The idea behind the group is to showcase the beauty of Dublin and when users of the

account take a photo they can use the hashtag #IgersDublin to link into the Instagrammers Dublin account. Delgado then picks the standout images she sees on a daily basis and showcases them on the account which then reaches an audience of over 10,000 followers. Since Delgado set the account up it has taken off phenomenally with new followers joining everyday. “The account started off slowly but a couple of months ago it reached 5,000 followers so I decided to do something more with the account. That’s when I decided to set up Instameet.” Instameet is when a group of followers from the account meet up and take part in different activities such as

afternoon tea, walks in beauty spots, and share apps and tricks for better mobile photography, while taking photos of the day to add to the account. The two most recent events took place in Dublin Castle and also Dublin City Hall. Delgado said: “Instameets are very nice because you can meet new people, get new followers, take beautiful photos of Dublin and take part in lovely activities.” In November, a photo walk around Dublin will take place with a date for the Instameet soon to be announced. For more information on Instagrammers Dublin follow them on Instagram @Igersdublin or email igersdublin@ gmail. com

Instagrammers Dublin creator Sofia Delgado who is originally from Venezuela

22 October 2015 Gazette 17

cinema P23

asdfsdaf P27 gaming P25

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

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Gazette

MUSIC P20

Pets

Dashing dixie needs a loving home

Dance star Robin Windsor (inset) will perform in “song and dance extravaganza” Puttin’ on the Ritz

showtime: classic song and dance favourites heading for dublin

Are you puttin’ on the Ritz?

 aisling kennedy news@gazettegroup.com

DESCRIBED as a “song and dance extravaganza” by Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor, Puttin’ on the Ritz is a show that is perfect for anyone who enjoys good music and fancy footwork. The show is coming to the Gaiety Theatre this November and will include performances by professional Strictly stars Robin Windsor, Trent Whiddon, who danced with Pixie Lott last year, his professional dance partner and wife Gordana Grandosek along with X Factor star Ray Quinn. Music will be by George Gershwin, Irving Berlin and Cole Porter with renditions of their 1920s and 1930s classic

songs including Cheek to Cheek, Alexander’s Rag Time Band, Easter Parade, I Got Rhythm and Puttin’ on the Ritz Windsor told the Gazette the night is filled with glamorous costumes and intricate ballroom skills. He says: “This show will take you back to the golden era of Hollywood in the 1920s and 1930s when Fred Astaire was the pin-up of the day, and we have incredible music throughout the show. “To dance to these songs is just amazing because they’re timeless. They have been famous for almost 100 years now and they’re still going.” Windsor explains that his favourite dance to perform on the night is Over the Rainbow because it is one of his all-time favourite songs. He dances the rumba to that song

which, he explains, he also “loves to perform”. There are 10 professional dancers in the show and six professional singers. Windsor explains: “All of the dancers are phenomenal and they have some great songs to dance to such as Puttin’ on the Ritz. There is also a girl who sings an operatic version of Puttin’ on the Ritz, which is absolutely stunning, and then we move through the 1920s and into the other side of New York where they had the cotton club, and that’s where it all gets that bit more sexy. It’s a family show though so it’s for all ages from eight to 88.” Windsor explains that he brought his partner’s grandparents, who are in their 80s, to the show in the UK recently.

“It took them back to one of the happiest times in their lives. They sat there and sang along to the songs from their childhood. They thanked everyone in the show for rekindling their romance and it was the sweetest thing I’ve ever heard. So I think everyone should bring their grandparents to it because they will adore it.” He is looking forward to performing the show in Dublin: “I’ve been to Dublin a few times and it has always been the best audience we perform to on the whole tour. Everybody here knows how to go out, enjoy their night and have a great time.” Puttin’ On The Ritz is at the Gaiety Theatre from November 2-7. Tickets cost from €35 and are available on www.gaietytheatre.ie

The Dublin Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is Dixie, a handsome five-year-old male terrier cross. He is an independent little guy who loves his own space, so is looking for a home without children. Dixie loves his comforts and likes nothing better than to make himself comfortable on the sofa. If you think you can offer Dixie a loving home, please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000, or even better, pop into the centre and have a chat with their Rehoming Team. They’re open six days a week from 12pm-4pm, closed all day Tuesdays. Check out the other dogs available for rehoming on their website www.dogstrust.ie, follow them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ DogsTrustIrelandOnline

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 22 October 2015

OUT&ABOUT

Ribbed beanie €13 Smart wool blend overcoat €160

Extreme ripped Dylan slim jeans

Leather worker boots €94

Let’s hear it for the boys!  STAFF REPORTER

WITH Halloween coming up, some of us blokes like to release our inner child for one night only and go all out crazy with a Darth Vadar costume or Batman. The rest of us might like to give a nod to the festivities. A decidedly Edward Scissorhands theme is running through this collection from River Island with seriously gothic tones coming through. You will be rocking these cool threads for the rest of the autumn/winter season anyway so they are a good investment.

Lightweight scarf €20

Black leather funnel biker jacket €200

 XXXX ZZZZZZZZZ

Leather herringbone gloves €33

boohoo.com autumn/ winter: Top €25 Cardigan €34 Jeans €34

22 October 2015 GAZETTE 19

GAZETTE

STYLE

BEAUTYnews

Ava Aztec tape panel clutch bag €22

Get a dreamy skin with a Dermalogica skin treatment

Leather dress €40

 MIMI MURRAY

Cream fur gilet €34

Boutique Maria Mongolian faux fur collar coat €74

Bella mixed stripe roll neck jumper €20

Lilly frin ge suedett trim pointed e ankle boot €4 1

Americans YOUNG

Boohoo.com have a fab range influenced by the suburban youth style of 70s Middle America. Young Americans creates a retro vibe with excessive layering of multi textural fabrics alongside fun and fresh new silhouettes. Calm earthy tones and natural pigments come in the form of fur lined suedette coats, oversized chunky knits and flared denim jeans with colour pops of rich cranberry and burnt orange with complementing prints such as wallpaper florals, brushed checks and knitted stripes. The perfect autumn trend, fringing and patchwork continues through from spring/summer 15 to complete an easy take on modern vintage style. All available from boohoo.com

Tara fringed trim block heel ankle boot €47

Abigail colour surge clutch bag €20

I RECENTLY tried out the new treatment rooms in Harvey Nichols, Dundrum. Well almost new! The quiet little sanctuary was put into the bustling store in January 2015 and is a veritable oasis in the middle of the thriving Town Centre. I plumped for a Dermalogica Skin Treatment; designed to treat clients’ individual skin concerns with a fullycustomisable 60-minute programme and prescribed at-home skincare regime. It starts with an in-depth consultation then double cleanse to prepare the skin for analysing so that the therapist can build a full picture of your lifestyle before performing the face mapping skin analysis to ensure your treatment is entirely results-driven. The treatment itself comprises a mixture of exfoliation of varying levels, extractions and masques depending on the results of the face mapping; and also includes an extremely relaxing mini massage. I love the scent of Dermalogica products, not too strong and quite fresh. I left with my skin absolutely glowing and the rosy complexion continued for days. Other treatments available are the bio surface peel, a professional chemical peel designed to resurface the skin with minimal recovery time. The multi-phase approach works with the skin’s biology to safely slough away dull epidermal layers and accelerate cell renewal without inflammation and prolonged downtime typically associated with chemical peels. There is also a 20-minute micro zone treatment which is a quick fix for troubled skin and won’t break the bank at €25. The one-hour facial is €75 for 60 minutes. I also bought their latest miracle product, Overnight Retinol Repair which I have just started to use. More of that in a couple of weeks but it promises big things so look out for my review!

Gazette

20 Gazette 22 October 2015

OUT&ABOUT

TRAVEL

From the tree-lined drive to this early Georgian house to the airy but intimate dining room and delicately decorated bedrooms, a stay at Viewmount House will leave you feeling pampered

Foodie find: VM restaurant at Viewmount house puts Longford on the food lover’s map

A treat for that special occasion or a good excuse to break a journey west  Shane Rigney

LAST week I ran into an old friend from Longford who lives in Dublin. I haven’t been in Longford in years and my old buddy was surprised to hear I had been down just the previous Friday. “I had a beautiful dinner in Viewmount House,” she said. “We go there all the time when I’m home! It’s gorgeous,” I have to agree. Viewmount House is on the Dublin Road outside Longford town. A foodie friend and I wanted to check out the increasingly popular restaurant. Chef Gary O’Hanlon (RTE’s The Restaurant) is at the helm, and the restaurant features on

Bridgestone’s 100 best places to eat in Ireland. The house is a handsome early Georgian manor of moderate imposition, three-bays wide and three-storeys tall, and presents itself after a short drive up a quaint driveway surrounded by pretty gardens with old tall trees, herbaceous borders and a Japanese garden. We were ushered past a roaring fire framed by two well-worn Chesterfields to the newer part of the house, in converted stables, comprising the main dining room and seven bedrooms. Subtle and considered period styling creates a seamless flow from the main manor house to the conversion. No sooner were we doing

the bounce test on our luxurious mattresses – the bed and linen were divine – than Beryl, our hostess, arrived with two Hendricks gin and tonics to ease away the weary week and wet our whistles for the gastronomy ahead. The VM restaurant fuses notes of traditional Irish cooking and flavours with European classic technique. All ingredients are sourced locally. The menu changes seasonally The main dining room is an airy yet intimate space, all exposed brickwork and cast iron pillars with comfy high back chairs and crisp linen; a lovely room for a good meal. I went for an orange and anise cured confit duck leg with a beetroot

salsa starter and the beef cheek as my main. My partner had a starter of prawns in a delicate filo type pastry and a 10oz sirloin for the main. A selection of homemade bread with butter and red pepper hummus was delicious. The treacle bread was the best I’ve tasted. We were then treated to a taste of the risotto from the starters list, which was flavoured with orange, carrot and a touch of tarragon. I loved the uniqueness though the rice was a touch too al dente and the dish a little sweet for my companion. There is a considerable element of sweet from fruits running through the menu, which can be a little marginalising for some. My duck

confit was cooked wonderfully though I found the orange cure a little heavy, but that’s really a matter of taste. I stole one of the prawns from the mate’s plate and we both thought they were excellent. Mains arrived a perfect 15 minutes later. Everything was plated and presented wonderfully, signalling a kitchen with a talent for style and substance, and a clear grasp of fine dining. My beef cheek was an unctuous mound of slow cooked braised beef, with delicate wisps of shallot, a moss green quenelle of parsley mash and a dark cherry wine jus. It was topped with an egg cooked to 60C sous vide,

which melded with the beef when broken and created rich gravy that was sensational. A feast for the eyes and belly. My friend’s steak came with a blue cheese butter and side of croquettes and seasonal veg. Unfortunately, her steak was cooked a little more than the medium rare she had requested, though its flavour was delicious and it was seared to perfection. For dessert we ordered a chocolate brownie mousse concoction with a cherry sauce and a honey sponge with ice cream. The chocolate was chocolatey heaven, the sponge a little stodgy and lacked a sauce. We drank a moderately priced Argentinian

Malbec at €30 that was silk in a glass. The wine list was excellent, with plenty of choice in the €20-€30 price range. At €55 per person VM at Viewmount House delivers on service, quality and the personal touch for that feeling of quiet luxury. An overnight stay at €110-130 will leave you feeling pampered and refreshed. Viewmount House and VM restaurant are worth watching out for. Breakfast had all the choice you’d expect with full Irish, pancakes, salmon, scrambled egg, cereal and more of that stunning treacle bread. Shane is a foodie vlogger, see riggersrecipes.

22 October 2015 Gazette 21

Gazette

22 Gazette 22 October 2015

OUT&ABOUT

food

BITESIZEDNEWS

Athlete turned food writer Derval O’Rourke

Ex-athlete runs up tasty Thai turkey dish A NEW dish has been created for Camile Thai Kitchen by champion athlete turned food writer Derval O’Rourke. O’Rourke’s Turkey Chilli Stir Fry (Pad Med Mamung) contains Irish turkey breast mince with red peppers, scallions, onions, broccoli, grated carrot, edamame beans and cashew nuts in a delicious tangy sauce. It is served with brown and wild rice, and costs €9.95. Camile leapt at the chance to team up with O’Rourke for its latest chef collaboration because of her sporting background, love of food and knowledge of nutrition. O’Rourke won gold in the 60m hurdles at the Moscow Indoor Championships in 2006 and competing for Ireland at three Olympic Games. After her retirement from athletics last year, she established a popular food blog and penned the best-selling cookbook, Food For The Fast Lane. She said: “To partner with Camile for this recipe made a lot of sense. My thinking was always based around the idea that there is no reason why healthy food can’t be tasty too and that’s exactly what Camile are doing. I’m delighted with how the dish has turned out and hopefully the Camile customers enjoy it!”

New ales help smooth bitter winter months THE approaching cooler months have inspired two new winter seasonal O’Shea’s ales, which are available now in 120 Aldi stores nationwide. O’Shea’s Dry Hopped Amber Ale is a subtle blend of fruit and spices, creating a perfect seasonal balance. Bitterness is accentuated from both the hops and citrus zest, and the dry cinnamon finish is balanced with the sweetness of crystal malt. Visually, it is an amber ale with a lightly carbonated white head. The Spiced Winter Ale makes an excellent aperitif, but is subtle enough on spiciness to double as a post meal beer. It’s an ideal match for crumbling desserts such as cherry or apricot tart. Winter ales are traditionally brewed stronger, richer and more full-bodied, so you can enjoy O’Shea’s new winter ales when sitting by a roaring fire Brewed by the Carlow Brewing Company, the O’Shea’s Spiced Winter Ale and Dry Hopped Amber Ale are on sale for €1.89 per 50cl bottle.

With more than 20 winemakers and over 100 wines to try, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get around

Autumnal tasting with a no-nonsense slainte  mimi murray

ONE of the most anticipated and enjoyable events of the year for James Nicholson Wine Merchants is its annual tasting, an informal, walkaround affair with no knowledge required and no lectures to attend. You don’t need to be a wine expert to enjoy it – it’s all about sharing and enjoying wine with like-minded people. This year, the tasting takes place in the banquet hall in Smock Alley Theatre at 5pm-8pm on Friday,

November 6. This is the perfect, relaxed and friendly opportunity to broaden your wine drinking horizons as well as your wine knowledge, while becoming familiar with the JN Wine range. The wine merchants are the current holders of the International Wine Challenge Regional Wine Merchant of the Year award – an award they have won 20 times. Each member of the team is a professionally trained, educated, passionate wine drinker.

All are happy to share their enthusiasm along with their independent and personal selection of excellent wines. The annual tasting is the ideal opportunity to meet some of the JN wine partners and to try the wines for yourself. With more than 20 winemakers and over 100 wines to try, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get around. Producers confirmed to date include: from France – Billecart-Salmon Champagne; Domaine G ay d a , L a n g u e d o c ;

Roc des Anges, Roussillon; Agnes Paquet and Domaine Jean Fournier, both from Burgundy. From Italy – Sartarelli from the Marche region, and Morisfarms Estate from Tuscany. From New Zealand – Pask Winery, Hawke’s Bay. From Spain – Pesquera Group, Ribera del Duero; Paco Garcia, Rioja; and Familia Martinez Bujanda. Massaya from Lebanon is also in the line-up as is Quinta da Falorca, Dao from Portugal; and Boekenhoutskloof from South Africa; Vina Casablanca

from Chile; and Shortcross Gin from Downpatrick, County Down. The impressive backdrop of the banquet hall rich in character, will provide an ideal setting for an event to showcase wines full of character and their producers – many of whom are characters in their own right! Tickets are €15 per person and must be bought in advance from James Nicholson Wine Merchant on www.jnwine. com or by calling Lo-Call 1890 667799. Places are limited.

22 October 2015 Gazette 23

Gazette

CINEMA

Gerry (Ben Mendelsohn, right) and Curtis (Ryan Rynolds) decide to head down along the Mississippi, taking in the sights and sounds of the South from one casino to another

mississippi grind: the jackpot prize of redemption is a dice throw away

Take a gamble – it’s worth it Do you believe in lucky charms? Gambling addict Gerry (Ben Mendelsohn) does and when a well-dressed stranger squeezes in amongst the haggard regulars at his local poker night, he is sure that he has found his. On the bad end of luck and growing desperate for a win, Gerry becomes quickly intoxicated by Curtis’s (Ryan Reynolds) fast-paced banter, topshelf liquor and seemingly unbreakable streak of good fortune. It is a solid, albeit staid set up from Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, the writing and directing team who first came to our attention with the incredible Half Nelson back in 2006. Featuring a burgeoning Ryan Gos-

 Dave phillips

ling , Half Nelson still stands out as a superb piece of film that managed to treat the complex topic of drug addiction with equal parts gravitas, humour, and charm. While this time out the tale revolves around gambling, there are some definite thematic parallels with Boden and Fleck’s earlier work. Mississippi Grind plays out as a solid twohander for Mendelsohn and Reynolds. As Gerry and Curtis become fast friends, they decide to

head down along the Mississippi, taking in the sights and sounds of the South from one casino to the next. While the pair set off on what seems like an amiable adventure, it soon becomes evident that they have embarked on a kind of gambling pilgrimage where the jackpot prize of redemption is always a dice throw away. Part road-trip, part bromance, and par t downbeat drama Mississippi Grind is a constantly shifting film. But is a story that, like the river it follows, moves along very slowly and steadily – and this is by no means a bad thing. The unhurried feel of the film leaves plenty of space for the actors to work on screen. Despite a long career in Austral-

ian film, Ben Mendelsohn remained largely unknown on this side of the world until 2010’s Animal Kingdom propelled

lives with each day have become so ingrained that you feel he actually believes the rationalisations and excuses that

some of his brand of charm. Curtis is the kind of guy who is au fait with just about everything you can imagine.

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‘While Mendelsohn undoubtedly outshines everybody on screen, there is ample space for Ryan Reynolds to exude some of his brand of charm. Curtis is the kind of guy who is au fait with just about everything you can imagine’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

him into the spotlight. With some incredible recent work (including Netflix’s Bloodline) under his belt, Mendelsohn is really showing his capabilities and in Mississippi Grind he gives a very nuanced and captivating performance. The shame, denial and deceit that Gerry

he spontaneously spouts. Knowing what is best for him but never knowing when to quit, he has dug himself into a hole so deep that the only way out is to keep digging. While Mendelsohn undoubtedly outshines everybody on screen, there is ample space for Ryan Reynolds to exude

Never short of cash, he knows all the places you need to go, and the people you need to talk to. Harnessing a level of slickness that will make you wonder if he has made some kind of Faustian pact, Curtis is the perfect counterpart to the world-weary Gerry. Yet Reynolds is keen enough

to at times, let us see the mask of confidence slip, even if only slightly. This slow-burner is accentuated by a very sturdy supporting cast, including Sienna Miller and Analeigh Tipton. And things are topped off with an incredible soundtrack, full of moody, deep south blues. Mississippi Grind’s simple story and deliberate pacing may be its downfall for a lot of potential viewers, but those who feel like taking a gamble are likely to enjoy the rewards – the 108 quietly captivating minutes of top class performances will linger with you long after Ben and Curtis have headed South.

Verdict: 8/10

Gazette

24 Gazette 22 October 2015

OUT&ABOUT

MUSIC

Johnny Marr: 17 track double album

Documenting a long and eclectic career Adrenalin Baby has the right balance of killer and filler  colm murray

From The Smiths to THE THE, The Cribs a n d e ve r y t h i n g i n between, chameleonic guitarist-turned-frontman Johnny Marr has had a long and eclectic career, but until now, has never been front and centre. Adrenalin Baby is his first live album, and loud and live it certainly is. The Messenger (2013) and last year’s Playland form the bulk of the record, and are flanked by some long-awaited Smiths gems. Recorded at shows in Glasgow, Brixton and his hometown of Manchester over the last couple of years, the album is a bonus addition to the late-career renaissance the sharpwitted Mancunian is deservedly having. Opening with arcade game effects and a buzzing crowd hum, the album kicks off with Playland – the punchy title track of his most recent rollicking rock effort. Marr’s lengthy melodic riff and fan screams hint at his stage arrival before his echoey vocals cut in. His sultr y screams

“she does the real buzz, he does the real buzz” take flight. After that, it is time for dance rock feel tune Easy Money followed by 25 Hours another track off Playland and New Tow n Velocity taken from his debut The Messenger.

incredible talent and all the passion of his guitar in four last songs There is a Light that Never Goes Out, another album standout, the shimmering Dynamo taken from Playland, T he Clash’s cover I Fought the Law to finally close the 17-track live

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‘I wanted to capture the atmosphere and feeling of the last couple of tours’

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Song 6 is the first Smiths’ classic to feature on the album The Headmaster Ritual followed by anthemic Back in the Box also taken from Playland. In spite of the strength of his solo material, inevitably The Smiths’ tracks stand out. Classic anthemic tracks such as Bigmouth Strikes Again, How Soon is Now and There is a Light that Never Goes Out are clearly some of the best tunes off the album. Also Getting Away With It from Electronic is another standout. The highlights of the live album are reserved for the last tracks where Marr sums up his

record with hymn How Soon is Now. “I wanted to capture the atmosphere and feeling of the last couple of tours,” says Johnny. “It’s been a special time and the album is a document for fans who were there, and for people who haven’t seen me and might want to check out what the shows are about. “I like live records when they’re a good listen, It’s turned out really well.” It’s certainly a great document of his live shows over the last 18 months or so, with a 17-track double album it’s certainly value for money with the right balance of killer and filler!

22 October 2015 Gazette 25

Gazette

GAMING STEPS

A number of consoles are facing likely extinction in 2016, ready to join the dodo. Illustration: Shane Dillon

It could be time to take an evolutionary step forward

Victorian world is a timekiller  shane dillon

WITH Christmas just around the corner, all kinds of gaming goodies are lining up, with 2015 marking a bumper year for gamers as the nextgen consoles get into their stride after their first, unsteady year. One of the first is released this Friday, October 23, when Assassin’s Creed Syndicate (XBO, PS4; Cert 18; c. €75) runs, leaps and climbs into view. There’s plenty of spying, sneaking and, frankly, assassinating missions to undertake here as a motley group of corrupt Vic-

torian rotters, bullies and scallywags are eliminated, with the cobbled streets, muddy paths, Dickensian poorhouses and grimy factories of 1868 London providing a compelling and familiar world to explore. Speaking of Dickens, he’s just one of a cast of several colourful characters that the player can meet, with everyone from Florence Nightingale to the original Queen Vic herself to run into, and missions to carry out for them. While history doesn’t quite record that Charles Darwin needed the help of shadowy assassins to

silence dangerous detractors, well, there’s plenty of fun to be found in chatting to such figures, before, say, setting off to climb to the top of “Big Ben” for a look across the wonderfully realised city, as barges criss-cross the crowded Thames below and vast clouds of black smoke billow and belch into the sky from rows of industrial revolution chimneys. Certainly not a game for kids, Syndicate delivers a vast, compelling world that should be fun to explore – not least until the post-nuclearwar Boston ruins of Fallout 4 come into sight on November 10 ...

 shane dillon

Whether meeting famous people of the era such as Charles Dickens (top left), or exploring and pilfering around much of Victorian London, Assassin’s Creed Syndicate is a welcome addition to the franchise

curry steps aside, citing illness and industry sexism  shane dillon

READERS will recall a recent Gazette interview in September with acclaimed composer Jessica Curry (right) about her superb work on the esoteric PlayStation 4 exclusive, Everybody’s Gone to The Rapture. Curry and the game alike created a lot of positive press around the world.

However, since that page was published, Curry made headlines around the world again – for less positive reasons. She announced via a highly personal, pragmatic blog that she is stepping down as co-director of the studio, The Chinese Room (Rapture’s developer). Curry cited her battles with an unnamed degenerative illness, and industry sexism and

difficulties alike. With many polls and studies noting the rise of women gamers (close to 50%), and yet with women developers and studio figures not matched by these statistics, any such reports of sexism are regrettable indeed. Here’s hoping that Curry can recoup enough energy to cope with her illness, and resume her place in the industry.

WHILE Santa Claus may have access to all the toys known to man (and woman), gamers and people buying their own consoles and games have noticed how 2015 has largely marked the evolutionary dead end of the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Wii U consoles, which are soon set to go the way of the dodo. While these consoles have huge established bases, and while of course there are plenty of great games still coming to all three in 2016 and beyond – realistically, their time is almost up. Several key titles and franchises (see main review, left) are now abandoning these reliable but effectively retired platforms to focus on the new current-gen consoles. Anecdotal evidence shows how the PlayStation 3, Wii U and XBox 360 games and consoles have been elbowed aside at games shops and relegated to evershrinking shelf space, where a scarcity of new titles compete against a sea of second-hand games. So, the time has finally come to upgrade

platforms before obsolescence wins that evolutionary battle in 2016. Watch this space in the run-up to Christmas, as I’ll take a look at some of the bundled consoles, games, price and platform comparisons for those looking to get a new console, but who can’t rely on Mr Claus to drop one down the chimney.

Nintendo NX Speaking of evolution, rumours and reports are widely circulating at present in the gaming press about Nintendo, and “Nintendo NX” – a software development system that’s potentially more powerful than both the Xbox One and PlayStation 4. This would mark a massive departure for Nintendo, which has traditionally focused on crafting gaming experiences rather than getting involved in the hardware and coding wars fought by Sony and Microsoft. Indeed, the Wii U console still lays claim to many of the best family-friendly titles of recent years. However, we’ll have to wait until at least NX-t year to see what happens ...

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SPORT

FastSport basketball: portlaoise and DCU both seen off by home outfit boylan beats own personal best time: DUBLINER Lydia Boylan broke her own National 500m Time Trial Record in the omnium as five Irish riders completed a successful week of racing at the European Track Championships in Grenchen. Boylan began day two of the women’s omnium in 16th place with three of the six races remaining and she moved up a place with a new national record in the 500m time trial, eclipsing the mark she set at the revolution event in Derby last month. Her 36.628s effort shaved 0.147s off her previous best on her way to ninth and she topped that with eighth in the race five flying lap, her 14.589s helping her rise to 14th in the event ahead of the final points race. In the sixth and final Omnium event Boylan was on the attack early on, taking points for third in the first two sprints of 10. She paid for her efforts, though, and fell back after that.

Killester firing on all fronts  sport@dublingazette.com

PYROBEL K illester claimed back-to-back victories last Saturday in the women’s and men’s Premier Leagues to make it two wins from three outings each thus far in the early stages of the new season.

On the women’s side, Killester responded to calls from head coach Karl Kilbride for improved offence with a 29-point opening quarter and an 88-78 win over Portlaoise Panthers. “We wanted to get off to a hot start,” said Kilbride, “but Portlaoise brought in

Claire Melia who had one of the best games I’ve ever seen from a 16-year-old. She did everything she wanted to do inside.” The young Ireland international was making her Premier League debut and finished with 21 points. Despite her run of form,

Killester’s Ciaran Roe on the attack

Pyrobel Killester’s Rebecca Nagle. Picture: Deryck Vincent

however, Killester had the greater spread of scorers with Raeshel Contreras landing 19 points, Mimi Clarke hitting 16 and Aisling Sullivan weighing in with 14 points at the National Wheelchair Association headquarters. Elsewhere, Meteors were impressive 77-58 winners over the UL Huskies with Meghan McGuinness scoring 22 points while Jade Daly, Emily Leer and Karen Meeny also showed up well. DCU Mercy landed a 68-61 win over SuperValu Brunell with Sarah Woods the key player, coming away with a weekend high of 26 points. Brunell had led 39-33 at the half-time break before DCU limited

their opponents to just 22 points in the second half of the contest. In the men’s Premier League, Templeogue survived a late comeback from GCD Swords Thunder to keep their unbeaten run intact. With two minutes left, the league leaders were seven points clear but GCD Swords Thunder missed a shot to win it at the buzzer for an 81-80 win “It’s great to be put under that kind of pressure,” said Templeogue’s Conor Grace. “We knew Thunder would never be out of it.” Swords’ boss Dave Baker, meanwhile, said it was “a difficult night”. “We fixed a lot of mistakes during the week but there were still signs of

it and we gave away 51 points in the first half. “We went smaller and quicker and pushed them hard in the second half and had a couple of chances to win it, but if you can’t execute at this level you’re going to get hurt.” Killester had plenty to spare in their north Dublin derby date with the DCU Saints as they rolled out an 83-59 result. Patrick Sullivan scored 20 points while Jermaine Turner drained 15 with healthy contributions also coming from Conor Gordon and Juan Martinez. Martins Provizors topscored for the Saints with 225 but he struggled to get enough support from those around him.

Hopkins hopeful of raising required funds for Rio bid  sport@dublingazette.com

Olympic hopeful Aoife Hopkins

DUBLIN teenager Aoife Hopkins has been put forward as an Irish Sailing Association candidate for the Irish Olympic sailing team, and is hoping to fund her qualification for Rio next summer through PledgeSports.org. Sixteen-year-old Hopkins is a member of Howth Yacht Club and competes in the laser radial category. In order to qualify for Rio, she must be the top performing candidate at three major events, beginning with Copa Brasil de Vela in Rio

this December. This will be followed with races in Miami and Mexico, in January and March respectively. Last year, Hopkins won the Irish Youth Sailor of the Year Award for ladies. She is currently ranked 81st in the world in her category, and finished 20th in the World Championships in Kingston Ontario, Canada earlier this year, as well as scoring a top 10 finish at the Youth European Championships. She was also the youngest sailor to be invited to compete in the Sailing World Cup in the

UK back in June, having qualified to compete amongst the world-class 40-sailor field based on impressive domestic results. The fundraising project is a requirement for qualification due to the expenses involved in competing in the preceding races. Costs that Hopkins will have to cover include entry fees, flights, boat charter and equipment. The funding event will take place over a period of a little mor than a month, with a finish date of Monday, November 16. On her fundraising, Hopkins

said: “I have achieved my goals for this year, which were top 10 at the Europeans and top 20 at the worlds and my ultimate goal is to win a medal for Ireland at the 2020 Olympics, but Ireland has qualified for a place at the 2016 Olympics in Rio in Laser Radial and I have been put forward as a candidate for that place. “The approximate cost of the Olympic campaign is €20,000 and I hope to raise €5,000 through Pledge Sports. Your help, no matter how small, will make my Race to Rio possible,” she said.

22 October 2015 gazette 29

Gazette

Bernard still all go on trail with Sam

Winning a third All-Ireland in five years brings myriad new responsibilities for Bernard Brogan; he tells JAMES HENDICOTT what happens after the title has been won BE R N A R D B r o g a n could be forgiven for taking some down time: he recently starred in a team that took home their third All-Ireland title in five years, finding himself among the nominees for Player of the Year 2015 based on his astounding 6-21 in the championship. But Brogan certainly isn’t using Gaelic football’s offseason as a time to unwind. Alongside his day job with Legacy Consulting, the Dublin forward is heavily involved with mental health charity Aware, and will be taking part in the Petermarkathon from October 23 to 26. The Beat the Blues programme specifically targets resilience and awareness among young people. Alongside cake

sales and a Dolly Parton Day, Brogan will be involved in jersey days and a cycle-athon. “I do a lot of work with Aware,” he tells us. “We get asked to do a lot of charity work as footballers, and I try and do as much as I can. “I took a conscious decision a couple of years ago to pick a charity that resonated with me and try to give real value, rather than just jumping into a picture and that. To try and get in there and help them on a real level.” Off season, it seems, is the time for another kind of busy. “We’ve also been going around a lot of schools with Sam” he tells GazetteSport. “Sam brings an aura travelling around, so it’s been a special few weeks. It’s been a challenge alongside run-

ning my own business. “It’s more or less a full time job over three or four months. I still remember when Sam was brought in to me in 1995 in primary school. Those memories stay with you forever, and we’re very conscious of that. “I never thought I’d be the next one bringing it around, as I was only a nipper back then. It was a long time waiting for Dubs, but that makes it so much more special.” We asked Brogan to reflect on the county football’s issues of the day, and found him pragmatic. “We don’t feel sorry for Mayo, and I don’t think they’d want us to,” he argues of Dublin’s perennial nearly-men rivals. “T he way they’ve changed their manager shows they feel they can

Bernard Brogan gets pampered by Peter Mark’s staff Louise Keaveney, Sharon O’Rourke and Aine Curley at the Petermarkathon launch. Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall

add more. A minute longer and they might have pipped us in that semi.” As for the talk of moving Dublin out of Croke Park, Brogan’s open to the concept, emphasising control being outside of the team’s hands: “I’ve never actually

individual awards again, but he’s quick and charitable in passing credit to his teammates. “Personal awards are always nice,” he admits. “I won back in 2010, and we didn’t win the All-Ireland that year, so it was a slightly lonely experience.

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

‘Sam [Maguire] brings an aura travelling around. I still remember Sam being brought to my school in 1995’ - Bernard Brogan --------------------------------------------------------

played a game outside Croke Park in the championship. We play league away games and with our clubs. The fans love a trip. I was on the bench last time Dublin played outside Croke Park in the championship in Longford and the atmosphere was electric. We’re players, though, and we’ll play wherever we’re put. It’s a commercial thing I presume.” Any potential split for Dublin is given shorter shrift, with Brogan arguing “a bit of success in Dublin is always talked up a bit. If we win 10 in a row, we’ll listen to the argument.” Brogan is on record as having surprised even himself with the quality of his Dublin performances this year. Vital points and a glut of goals have seen him up for

You’d definitely take Sam over it, but it’s a great honour. “It’s great to have Jack McCaffrey and Philly McMahon alongside me. Jack’s phenomenal; he’s really bought a new energy and power to our game. Philly as well. They do all the work, I just have to be on the end of it, you know?” As for next year? “In early January we’ll get the boys back in together and work out how we go again and build on this year. “There are a lot of young lads. Dublin under age has been quite successful the last few years, so we’re expecting a few new faces, as well as Eric Lowndes and Cormac Costello pushing on. “We need the competition. We still have great motivation as a team. And great expectations.”

FastSport

McKinley starts campaign for Irish clearance to play FORMER Leinster out half Ian McKinley is at the heart of a new campaign to allow rugby players to compete while wearing goggles in Ireland. McKinley signed for Italian club Zebre this September, having transferred from Viadana in the Italian league. Zebre play in the Pro 12 alongside the Irish provincial sides, and when it came time for the Italian club to line out against Connacht in Galway last Saturday, October 16, McKinley was told he would not be able to wear his protective goggles by the Irish Rugby Football Union. Twenty-four rugby unions have been participating in a trial of on-field goggles since January 2014, with every top 10 nation taking part with the exception of England, France and Ireland. The IRFU has told McKinley he can’t compete in his goggles on Irish soil, though he will be able to take to the field against Connacht in the return leg in Zebre’s hometown of Parma. McKinley, who spent his formative years at St Columba’s College in Rathfarnham, was playing for Leinster in 2010 when a teammate accidentally placed a stud in his left eye during a ruck, causing him to lose all sight in that eye. He continued to play professional rugby, but suffered what he believes was deliberate gouging in the other eye in two All Ireland league matches, leading him to fear for his wellbeing. As a result, McKinley played a central role in pioneering the sports goggles he now wears, alongside a team at the National College of Art and Design. They are now worn by several professional players in trial nations. “In the longer term, I am hoping that this campaign will demonstrate that it is possible to resume a sports career at the highest levels, despite having suffered a serious injury,” McKinley said of his new petition, which targets both the IRFU, and World Rugby. He hopes that the IRFU will voluntarily join the trial, and that World Rugby might require blanket acceptance. “I’m also hoping that this will show those who are concerned about safety standards in rugby that there are workable solutions to ensure players at all levels can safely enjoy the game.”

Gazette

30 DUNDRUM gazette 22 October 2015

SPORT

FastSport

camogie: ballyboden do the early damage against kilmacud

Old Wesley’s winning start comes to an end OLD Wesley’s UBL Division 1B bubble eventually burst against Dublin University last Saturday when the students taught the more experienced players how to control a match, winning out 13-10. Wesley were guilty of a high error count, a high turnover count and some poor decisions in a match full of opportunities to win as Trinity showed their liking for the all-weather pitch in Donnybrook. Playing open rugby, they were off the mark after just three minutes. From a line-out, the ball was swung out to full back Conor Kearns who wrong-footed Billy Ngawini and sprinted in from the half way for a try. Barry McLaughlin hauled back three points with a penalty from 47m that just about had the length. Trinity were nearly on the scoreboard again when their potent winger Jack McFarland made a fine break but was stopped just short of the line. Wesley started to come back into the tie thereafter but a knock-on denied one good spell while a series of scrums was also well defended. Trinity countered in kind and stretched their lead after some good recycling with winger McFarland eventually crossing in the corner to make it 3-10. Wesley’s cause was not helped by a yellow card for Iain McGann for foul play and there were no further scores before half time. Playing with more purpose, Wesley won an early penalty in the second half but McLaughlin was wide with the attempt at goal. He was then nearly in for a try but was bundled into touch, albeit by a high tackle resulting in a yellow card for the Trinity substitute prop. Trinity were dealt three more yellow cards and, at one stage, were down to 11 players. Wesley were unable to capitalise, not least because of handling errors and crooked. Against the odds, Trinity earned three points with a penalty kick to make it 3-13. The numbers advantage did eventually tell for Old Wesley when Billy Henshaw crossed for a try in the corner. McLaughlin struck the conversion perfectly to make it a three-point game. However with just five minutes on the clock the visitors controlled the final minutes running down the clock before the referee blew the final whistle.

The Ballyboden St Enda’s Senior 3 camogie side that won the championship last weekend

Kirwan goals inspire Boden senior 3 final Ballyboden St Enda’s 4-5 Kilmacud Crokes 1-10  sport@dublingazette.com

B A L LY B O D E N S t Enda’s were held scoreless for the entire second half, not even recording a wide, but still managed to hold off Kilmacud Crokes to claim the Dublin Senior 3 camogie championship title. Boden had done the damage in the opening 10 minutes when they struck 3-1 and in the closing seven minutes of the first half when they played superbly to score four points without reply.

Kilmacud Crokes were hoping to add the Senior 3 title to the Senior 4 crown won last year but weaknesses close to goal proved costly in that opening spell. In the third minute, Claire Kirwan goaled only for Lynn Lambe to cancel out that effort with a goal of her own for Crokes 30 second later. An Aisling O’Leary point restored Boden’s lead before K ir wan capitalised on defensive uncertainty to net for the second time in the fifth minute. Crokes, despite conceding the green flags, were playing well and the likes of

cross country Hargreaves leads home field in Phoenix Park dsdac’S Brandon Hargreaves led home

the field to win the senior men’s 8km race at the autumn open cross country in Phoenix Park last weekend. Hargreaves was first across the line in 25.36 and was happy with his performance as he builds towards the U-23 race at the European Cross Country Championships in Hyeres, France on December 13

Picture: Tomas Greally/Sportsfile

Rachel Noctor, Sorcha Meagher, Siofra Walsh and Michelle O’Hurley looked dangerous. But, in the ninth minute, Orla Tevlin got through for yet another Ballyboden goal and the tally reached four in the 16th minute when a great sideline by Aisling O’Leary was tapped home from close range by midfielder Aoife Tobin. Crokes enjoyed a good spell between the 13th and 20th minutes when points by O’Hurley, Walsh and Meagher gave indications of their ability but the closing five minutes of the half were Boden’s.

A Danielle White 45 started the spell and this was followed by points by Tobin, Tevlin following a mighty 40m run and pass by full back Grace Walsh and then another superb point by White to leave Ballyboden 4-5 to 1-5 in front at the break. Boden had read the Crokes threat and for the second half employed Tobin as a sweeper and very effective seventh defender. While Crokes capitalised in the middle of the field with Walsh and Aisling Whitely more prominent, they could not break through for goals. Emer O’Leary was

very alert between the posts and in front of her Walsh was immense with three spectacular catches among the reasons she was named player of the match. Crokes kept pressing and were rewarded with points from Anneka Kilroy, Meagher, the hard working Aine Gilheany and O’Hurley. But that four points sally before half-time by Boden proved to be the final winning margin. Ballyboden St Enda’s will now represent Dublin in the AIB Leinster Intermediate Club semi final against Tullaroan of Kilkenny in Tullaroan.