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September 17 - 23, 2015
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INSIDE: Bram Stoker weekend will give Dracula fans plenty of events to sink their teeth into See Page 17
Hurling:
Double delight for Ballyboden junior sides Page 31
Rugby:
Wesley start life in UBL 1B in perfect style Page 30
Property tax cut retained for 2016 aisling kennedy
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ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES....................... 8 DUBLIN LIFE................... 13 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................28
style: We round up some of the latest on-trend looks for autumn/winter P18
A VOTE to retain the current 15% cut in the local property tax (LPT) for 2016 in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown was passed this week at a Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council meeting. At the meeting, councillors voted unanimously in support of the 15% cut to the LPT. Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown pays one of the highest rates of the tax in Ireland, with an estimated €43m
paid from the area in 2015. Cllr Shane O’Brien (SF), who proposed the motion to maintain the LPT cut at the meeting, said: “Anything other than decreasing it this year would be an increase for people in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown. “We cannot be increasing taxes and charges for people now who are still struggling following seven years of austerity.” Full Story on Page 2
A bright idea: €3.95 candle to help fundraise for children’s hospice MELANIE Finn hoisted Liam aloft
as Dil Wickremasinghe with baby Phoenix looked on at the recent launch of Mothercare Ireland’s fundraising partnership with LauraLynn children’s hospice. A special candle is on sale now priced €3.95, with all proceeds going directly to
help support the Leopardstown Road-based hospice’s work, including providing palliative and supportive care to children and their families, as well as the educational and training required to support the development of a children’s palliative care team. Picture: Maxwells
2 dundrum Gazette 17 September 2015
property tax Unanimous move by councillors on charge
Vote to retain 15% cut passes aisling kennedy
DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown councillors voted in favour to maintain the reduction of the local property tax (LPT) by 15% in 2016 at this week’s Dun LaoghaireRathdow n County Council meeting. At the meeting, councillors voted unanimously in support of the 15% cut to the LPT, particularly because Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown pays one of the highest rates of the charge in Ireland. In 2015, a 15% reduction in the LP T was
implemented, but Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown still paid an estimated €43m in the charge. The knock-on effect of reducing the LPT tax, however, may mean that funding for social housing may be jeopardised, and local councillors were conflicted on how they viewed a solution for the current lack of social housing in the area. Cllr Pat Hand (FG) said: “I support the 15% cut for the property tax, as we in Dun Laoghaire are one of the highest [hit local authorities] in the country.” He added: “As regards
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‘We in Dun Laoghaire are one of the highest [hit local authorities] in the country’
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Cllr Pat Hand (FG)
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the social housing, we will have to wait and see what the local government fund is.” Cllr Shane O’Brien (SF), who proposed the motion to maintain the
LPT cut, said: “Anything other than decreasing it this year would be an increase for people in Dun LaoghaireRathdown. We cannot be increasing taxes and charges for people now who are still struggling following seven years of austerity.” He added: “Enough zoned and serviced land for housing exists within Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown – we just need the political will to recommit to the ideals and principles of social housing and start an extensive building programme to deliver the homes which are desperately needed for thousands of families across the region.” Cllr John Bailey (FG), who is also the chair of the housing committee at the council, said that he too supported the 15% reduction, and added: “We have been given €60m over three years for housing in Dun Laoghaire and we’re aggressively working on Part 8s [planningrelated procedures] and various other things to fast-forward this. We’re working as hard as we can to fast-for ward housing and to address the issues.” Councillor Barry Saul (FG) said he supported the reduction of the LPT by 15%, said: “However, it still remains that this is an unjust tax which effects Dun LaoghaireRathdown residents disproportionately. “Out of every €500 paid in the property tax,
In voting to retain the 15% cut to Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown’s local property tax, several councillors highlighted the amount that citizens are paying compared to those in other local authorities across the country
Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is left with just €25 extra to spend on discretionary local services.” Supportive
Cllr Lettie McCarthy (Lab) said: “I am fully supportive of the 15% LPT reduction and don’t for one minute believe people living in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown area should be asked to pay more than our country cousins. Your house is your home.” Cllr Melisa Halpin (PBP) told The Gazette that she also voted in favour of reducing the tax by 15%, but said: “The LPT is an unfair tax that takes no account of the income of the household. We voted in favour of reducing the tax, but that does not make the tax more fair.”
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17 September 2015 dundrum Gazette 3
exhibition
politics: labour’s successor to richard humphreys is chosen
Showcase of model skills
Carron McKinney co-opted to council aisling kennedy
NEW Labour councillor Carron McKinney was appointed this month to replace outgoing Cllr Richard Humphreys, who resigned in May this year to take up a new post as a High Court judge. Cllr McKinney was coopted onto the council to represent the vacant Stillorgan area council seat on Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. Cllr McKinney, who is from Cabinteely, said that she intends to work hard for the local community to ensure the locality receives the attention and resources it needs from the council. She told The Gazette: “I believe I will be a strong
voice for Cabinteely and a proactive representative for all the people in Mount Merrion, Foxrock and the wider Stillorgan area.” Cllr McKinney has been involved with the Cabinteely Park walk way and was also a previous member of The Parks’ Residents Association. She is also active in St Bridget’s Parish Church. She added: “Education is my passion. I want to see a strong government commitment to investment in education continued both locally and nationally.” Commenting on Cllr McKinney’s appointment, Cllr Carrie Smyth (Lab) said: “I am thrilled that the members of the party have selected Carron
to join our team at Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, and I look forward to working with her in the coming months.” Minister for Energy and Natural Resources Alex White also welcomed Cllr McKinney and said: “I believe the party has made a great choice in co-opting Carron to the council, where I know she will make a significant contribution and be a strong advocate for the people of Cabinteely and the wider Stillorgan electoral area. “Yet again it demonstrates our historical commitment as a party to further advance the involvement of women in politics.”
Stars line up: Leading actors at The Callback Queen’s Dundrum screening LEAD actors Sean T O Meallaigh and Amy-Joyce Hastings were in attendance for the recent Moves@Dundrum screening of director Graham Cantwell’s new film, The Callback Queen. Following on from Cantwell’s other films, including Anton, A Dublin Story, The Callback Queen follows an actress trying to get her big break in London, but her friends, and an oddball cast of characters, mean that the path to fame is anything but smooth. Picture: Leanne Fay
THE Dublin Society of Model and Experimental Engineers (DSMEE), formed in 1901, are holding a Model Engineering Exhibition in Marlay Park this weekend. The exhibition will take place in the Orangerie, which is located within the walled garden in Marlay Park. DSMEE aim to preserve the skills of model engineers, and the models produced by them, for future generations. The engineering exhibition will take place on Sunday, September 20 from 11am to 5pm, and admission is free. All are welcome to attend. For more information, see www.dsmee.ie, or call the society secretary Terry Gough at 087 271 3657.
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politics Candidates gear up for Dublin Rathdown seats
Fine Gael race is on to contest seat aisling kennedy
THE race is on to establish who Fine Gael will put forward as its nomination to contest the next General Election in the Dublin Rathdown constituency following the news this week that Cllr Neale Richmond will be seeking their party’s nomination at the upcoming selection convention. Also seeking nomination for the area at the convention, which takes place on October 2, is Deputy Alan Shatter and party colleague, Cllr Josepha Madigan. Deputy Shatter, a
serving Dail deputy in the Dublin South constituency, recently said he intended to run in the newly formed Dublin Rathdown constituency. The formation of this new constituency, however, has led to speculation as to whether or not Fine Gael can retain the current two seats it holds as part of the Dublin South constituency. Dublin South is a fiveseater constituency, but Dublin Rathdown will only be a three-seater constituency. Deputy Shatter is not deterred by this, howev-
er, and told The Gazette he fully intended to seek a nomination to run as a candidate in the upcoming General Election. This is despite his resignation from his position as Justice Minister last year, following his disagreement with the manner in which the Guerin Report into allegations of Garda malpractice was conducted. At the time, An Taoiseach Enda Kenny said the report pointed out the inadequate response of Deputy Shatter “under his statutory function for independent investigation”. Deputy Shatter told
the Ga zette: “I a m pleased at the encouragement I am receiving from people right across the constituency who are anxious to ensure that I will be a member of and continue to represent them in the next Dail.” He said that despite the “terrible difficulties” the party inherited from the previous government, he believed that the last few years had been a time of “unprecedented social and legal reform”. Cllr Josepha Madigan, recently appointed as Leas Chathaoirleach, and a solicitor specialising in family law, reiterated Deputy Shatter’s sentiments about the calibre of politicians running in the selection convention.
Confident She said: “It’s great that Fine Gael has such a strong field of candidates to choose from; this can only be a good thing for our constituents. Alan [Shatter] and Neale [Richmond] have much to offer but I’m confident that my own qualities will be recognised by the convention. “I believe I offer the people in my constituency a fresh voice and perspective that many politicians do not.” She added: “I’ve heard a few people refer to Dublin Rathdown as the ‘constituency of death’ because it only has three seats, but I think Fine Gael is perfectly capable of winning two of them. It’s certainly something we are striving to achieve.” Cllr Neale Richmond is also hoping to secure the nomination to run in the next General
Deputy Alan Shatter and Cllr Josepha Madigan: two of the Fine Gael hopefuls looking to claim a seat in Dublin Rathdown in the next General Election
Election and has been tipped as the man to beat, as he was both a parliamentary assistant and a campaign manager for Deputy Olivia Mitchell since 2011. Cllr Richmond said: “I believe I can provide
a fresh energy to the party’s fortunes locally. After six years serving on the council, I want to play my part for our area at the next level.” He added: “To win two seats here, Fine Gael will need a balanced and
enthusiastic ticket that can harness the positive national recovery and put the party in the strongest possible position. I want to be part of that team and I know I can deliver for our party and our area.”
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works Council working on master document for site
Fernhill Gardens plan due in 2016 aisling kennedy
THE development of a master plan for the future upgrade of Fernhill Gardens in Stepaside will begin in 2016, according to Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. Cllr Lettie McCarthy (Lab) queried the time-
frame on the master plan of Fernhill Gardens at the recent Dundrum area committee meeting. Fernhill Gardens was bought by the council in March for €5m, with the promise that the gardens would be reopened to the public. A spokesperson for
the council said: “We are currently addressing immediate management and health and safety issues of Fernhill Gardens. “We will shortly be engaging consultants to begin preparatory work for a master plan to assist us in addressing general issues such
as access, circulation of vehicular traffic, building upgrades, woodland surveys, sports areas and security prior to the commencement of a master plan process. “It is envisaged that work on the master plan will begin in 2016.” Meanwhile, in answer to a question posed by
Cllr Lynsey McGovern (Ind) as to whether or not the council may be considering to dispose of Fernhill House, a spokesperson for the council said: “There are no plans to dispose of any assets on the property. Any such disposal would require council approval.”
don’sdublin Corsican battle exposed fortitude of Martello towers ALTHOUGH it is the most famous of them all, the Martello Tower in Sandycove that houses the James Joyce Museum, is one of about 50 which were built to repulse a possible invasion by Napoleon’s navy. After the passage of the National Defence Act 1804, towers were erected along the east coast from Bray to Balbriggan, with others on the south coast and Cork harbour. When war broke out between Britain and France in 1793 two British ships, the Fortitude and Juno, attacked a round tower at Cape Mortella in Corsica in February 1794. After hours of heavy bombardment by the two ships the tower was finally taken with little damage to the structure. However, the Fortitude had been set on fire and lost 62 men in the fight. Impressed by the strong defensive nature of the tower, engineers used the design when building the line of towers in 1804. Around Dublin 28 towers were erected, with 16 stretching southwards from Sandymount to Bray, and 12 northwards from Red Rock, Sutton to Balbriggan. Seven of those to the south have been demolished while all to the north are standing. Many are in private ownership with Howth tower, now the Ye Olde Hurdy Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio, the only one open to the public on the northside. Apart from Sandycove, Seapoint tower is the only other open to the public (during the summer) on the southside. There you can see the equipment used for loading the 18-pounder gun (there is a replica on the roof), and feel what it was like to have lived there. The towers were usually 40ft high with walls up to 8ft thick and housed an officer and 10-15 soldiers. Although built in time of war they, thankfully, never saw any action as the French invasion never materialised. It is somewhat ironic that towers designed in Corsica, where Napoleon was born, were the blueprint for a defence against him!
Don Cameron
www.donsdublin.wordpress.com
Martello towers were erected along the east coast from Bray to Balbriggan, with others on the south coast and Cork harbour
17 September 2015 dundrum Gazette 7
row Continuing claims that gigs are damaging park
Anti-concert group reject Marlay report aisling kennedy
A N E C OL O GICA L report commissioned by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council to assess the impact of the Marlay Park concerts on the park was heavily criticised by South Dublin Protect Our Parks (SDPOP) this week. Following last week’s Dundrum area committee meeting, the group’s conclusion on the ecological report, conducted by Scott Cawley Ltd, was that it was limited, cov-
ering this year only, and that it could not ascertain whether or not wildlife had been affected over 15 years of large-scale concerts. A spokesperson for SDPOP said: “The council continuously plays the card that it is pumping concert-generated monies back into Marlay Park. “In fact, 100% of concert revenue goes into ‘recreational facilities’ across the whole Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown spectrum.
“Simply put, Marlay Park takes 100% of the hit, but only a proportion of the gains. “All other parks [across the region] are funded and operated accordingly without any need for large-scale concerts. It’s time to share the load.” The spokesperson continued: “Weirs are broken and the waterways are in bad condition, but instead of fixing and cleaning them, we have seen monies squandered on needless fencing, the widening of woodland
The latest criticism from South Dublin Protect Our Parks on concerts at Marlay Park has seen the group criticise a report on their long-term impact
footpaths, and ugly concrete bridges.” T he spokesperson added that they believed the works were “intrinsically and infrastructurally linked to turning Marlay Park into a ... concert venue”. The group would like to see “a full transparent third-party environmental impact statement carried out, as is required by
law”, and in addition they want “a full investigation as to why no such study has been carried out since the concerts began in 2001”. In response, a council spokesperson said: “The council has already dealt with queries raised by Protect Our Parks and other interested parties in relation to the Marlay Park concert programme,
and has nothing further to add at this time.” Cllr Neale Richmond (FG) previously stated that “In Marlay Park alone this year, works have taken place to improve footpaths, upgrade Tamplin’s Cottage, construct a new golf pavilion and carry out tree works. “All these works have been paid for by concert revenues.”
transport Meeting to focus on Luas CLLR Neale Richmond (FG) will be hosting a public meeting on the future of the Luas line next week in Taney Parish Centre in Dundrum. The meeting will take place at 7.30pm on Tuesday, September 22. Cllr Richmond has called the meeting in an attempt to tackle the issue of how the future of the Luas will effect Dundrum and its surrounding areas. On the night there will be guest speakers from the Railway Procurement Agency, An Garda Siochana and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, who will answer any questions and detail all expected impacts on the locality. All are welcome to attend.
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gazetteGALLERIES
Yasmina Heuston
Ave Leskuter
AJ Quinlan and his father, Alan
A helpful “mermaid” having some fun with Jessica Murphy, Ali and Mia Walsh and Harriet Lerner (back). Pictures: Geraldine Woods
families: MERMAID SWIM AT DARTRY HEALTH CLUB
Kids splash out for a great cause A
MERMAID made quite a splash with children at Dartry Health Club in Palmerston Gardens recently, as she joined them in the pool to launch The Dartry Kids’ Swimming Programme. Former Irish Rugby international Alan Quinlan came along to swim with his son, with the programme’s launch in aid of Temple Street Children’s Hospital. A cake and other fun activities helped to keep the children entertained, with everyone happy to help support a great cause at the same time as enjoying some healthy exercise, too.
Michael Swift, Ciara LeFroy, Simon Keogh and former Irish Rugby Ariyana Heuston
international Alan Quinlan with autographed jerseys
17 September 2015 DUNDRUM Gazette 9
council Fianna Fail’s claim of outdated statistics are contested Awareness Chips are down for Fido et al
Row over social housing figure aisling kennedy and
Keith bellew
FIGURES released by Fianna Fail that state there is currently a 64% increase in the social housing waiting list in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown have been heavily disputed by the Department of Environment this week. Cllr Mary Hanafin (FF) stated last week that Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown currently has the greatest increase in social housing waiting lists out of all the local authority areas in Dublin over the past two years. However, the Department of Environment has disputed this, and said that the statistic is “only a snapshot and does not take account of a full assessment of needs”.
Cllr Hanafin said that until now, the Government had been using outdated figures on social housing waiting lists that were gathered in 2013. She said: “Figures released to Fianna Fail show there are currently 5,600 families and individuals on the social housing waiting list at Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. That’s up from 3,406 people in 2013 – a jump of 64% in less than two years. “T he Government needs to step up its response to the escalating housing emergency. The fact that the numbers in need of a home in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown were drastically underestimated at a national level is extremely worrying.” She added: “I’m deeply concerned by the fact that
the Department of Environment is not working off the most up to date figures.” In response, a spokesperson for the Department of Environment said that the comments made by Cllr Hanafin were inaccurate. The spokesperson said: “The housing agency summary was carried out in a robust analytical way that engaged all local authorities who had to contact directly everybody on their housing list – [then] carried out a housing assessment and updated their status and reported on a particular date. This is the only way to capture accurate data and statistics.” The spokesperson said that the social housing strategy was based on the 2013 assessment car-
Social housing figures for Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown are being strongly disputed
ried out by the Housing Agency, an independent authority with expertise on housing. Currently, under statute, the assessment is only conducted every three years; however, from next year, it will take place annually. T he spokesperson said that the Fianna Fail method “includes erroneous data” as it does not take into consideration
“duplications [people who applied to more than one local authority], no needs assessment, changed circumstances of applicants, applicants who have received allocated housing, applicants who have refused offers of housing, or applicants who for one reason or another no longer require a house.” Cllr Hanafin said this response was “extremely
disingenuous”. “[The Minister] has been using figures two years out of date. There is absolutely no doubt that our up-todate figures are far more accurate. “[We received them] directly from local authorities so they represent the numbers in need of social housing right now - not the numbers who needed housing two years ago in 2013.”
MAXI Zoo store at Leopardstown Retail Park is hosting a range of free information and awareness events in store until the end of September to help dog owners learn more about how to microchip their pets. On September 1, new legislation came into effect whereby it is now compulsory for all dogs to be microchipped and registered on an approved database by March 31 2016. Dog owners are welcome to drop into Maxi Zoo store any time until the end of September to find out more. A free Vet and Microchipping Day will take place in store on Saturday September 26 2015. For more information log onto www.fido.ie
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17 September 2015 DUNDRUM Gazette 11
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gazetteGALLERIES
Cathy Belton, Paul Mercier and Eleanor Methven
Meghan Moynihan and Eimear Walsh
premiere: LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
In pursuit of fun I
Ireland’s leading actors gathered in Dublin for the premiere of new Irish action film, Pursuit, which is directed by Paul Mercier and sees Brendan Gleeson, Ruth Bradley and Liam Cunningham take centre-screen. Pictured on the red carpet ahead of the Dublin premiere were the stars of the film, including Bradley, Cunningham, Barry Ward, Dara Devaney, Owen Roe, Don Wycherley, David Pearse, Ciaran O’Brien, Emmet Kirwan and Donall O Healai. Set between Connemara and the Spanish Costa del Sol, Pursuit is a modern take on the legend of Diarmuid and Grainne; a tale of love, betrayal, revenge and the pursuit of a life beyond crime, which features car chases galore, placing the Skoda Octavia RS firmly in the limelight.
Actor Liam Cunningham, Sabina Higgins, President Michael D Higgins, actress Ruth Bradley and director Anne Gately at the Skoda Dublin premiere of Pursuit at the IMC Cinema in Tallaght. Pictures Brian McEvoy
Sinead and Nell Mercier
Actor Dara Devaney
17 September 2015 Gazette 13
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Gazette
dublinlife A celebration of cultural diversity EVERYONE in Dublin is being encouraged to come out and celebrate the city’s cultural diversity at the free BlueFire Street Fest on September 19 in Smithfield Square. Last year’s BlueFire Street Fest drew 10,000 attendees and the organisers are anticipating a 12,000 crowd this year.
Smithfield Square is being decked out on the day with art installations, which include visual artist Ashleigh Downey’s Blooming Bunting project and artistic demonstrations by the Temple Bar art gallery, The Icon Factory. This is the festival’s third birthday and the
highlights this year include live sets by eight Dublin-based bands, including members of Kila, Manden Express, Ajo Arkestra, Kiruu, Rhythm Africana, Ayodele, SuperTonic Orchestra and The Bionic Rats. Street fest attendees have the opportunity to avail of up to 50 free
diary
expert-led workshops across a wide range of activities including yoga, capoeira and DJ-ing. The all-day festival runs from noon until 10pm and admission is free. Visit www.bluefiredublin.ie for more information.
Future’s at home in dublin village Dublin2020 will create an exciting mini village on O’Connell Street for Culture Night on September 18. From 5.30pm to 8.30pm, visitors to Dublin Village will meet an ideagenerating robot, who will literally eat people’s ideas about the future of their city. Next, visitors will meet positive protesters, who will be shouting about the thoughtprovoking ideas that have been collected by Dublin2020 during their meetings and workshops with more than 3,000 citizens of Dublin. At the Tea and Chats Tent, busybodies Ethel and Lillie will be entertaining visitors and asking what makes them tick. The comedic pair will also treat guests to tea and a very special Dublin2020 cake, all set to the sounds of old time music. Guests with energy to burn can step into the Jungle of Games and play a special Dublin version of Snakes and Ladders, and huge versions of old school games such as Giant Jenga. All ages are welcome to pitch in and paint a collective community street mural led by artist Jane Groves entitled, I’m Mad about Dublin.
Yoga with Marta is one of the workshops on offer during the BlueFire Street Festival
sleeptember loves bed-head selfies MONEY worries still cause 22% of people in Ireland to lose sleep occasionally, according to Ireland’s first National Sleep Survey, commissioned by bed and mattress provider King Koil to mark the month of Sleeptember. The month of September has been dedicated Sleeptember, with a campaign backed by popular GP Nina Byrnes designed to provide advice on good sleep and its health benefits. A charitable dimension to Sleeptember sees Temple Street Children’s Hospital benefit from a campaign asking people to share their not-alwaysflattering “bed-head selfies”. The charity appeal,
supported by Irish rugby International Cian Healy, is asking people to be brave by tweeting their own “bed head selfie”, or to nominate a friend, and donate €4. Tweet your “bed head selfie”, with hashtags #Sleeptember, #BedHeadSelfie or nominate a friend, and text HOSPITAL to 50300 to donate €4 to Temple Street Children’s Hospital. For further information visit www. Sleeptember.ie.
highlighting sexual assault WELL-known Dublin columnist Fiona Looney recently opened up about an incident in her 20s when she was sexually assaulted. Talking on an episode of Midday on TV3, she discussed the incident during a panel discus-
sion about controversial remarks made by Chrissie Hynde (The Pretenders), who said she was at fault for a sexual assault at the age of 21. On the programme, Looney said: “At the time, it was the worst thing that ever happened to me. But afterwards, the amount of people, and I hate to say this, mainly women, who said: ‘Yeah, but your skirt was really short and you were quite drunk’. “I’m sorry – how is that my fault that a man forced me down and pulled my legs apart? How is that my fault because of what I was wearing?” she said. During the show, Ellen O’ Malley Dunlop from the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre urged anyone who is a victim of an assault or rape to ring their helpline at 1800 77 8888.
17 September 2015 Gazette 15
FEATURE escape the mayhem: moments of calm are precious
Cheesy music in the car helps – no joke! aisling kennedy
AS a stand-up comedian, an actress who makes appearances on Irish shows such as Republic of Telly, and a mother to three young children, Emma Doran from Rathfarnham is a woman who has a hectic schedule. She spoke to the G a z e t t e t h i s we e k , explaining how she manages to escape the mayhem of her busy lifestyle. “I find that I just have to take the moment of calm when it appears,
I don’t really set time aside,” she says. “If I have a bit of time to myself, which can be something as simple as being in the car before a gig, I love to write or just listen to some music. There’s no distractions or noises or anything like that. I just take that moment because I never know when it’s going to appear again. Quietness is a big luxury for me and I do enjoy it when I get the chance!” Doran explains that she enjoys writing jokes
and sketches for her comedy show when she gets the chance and particularly loves listening to “bad music” during her quiet times. She says: “I listen to awful, awful music! I love the pure cheese factor stuff like when you’re in the car on your own and you’re belting it out. I always have to remember to quickly change the radio station off the cheesy stations when other people get into my car so I don’t look bad.” Doran is currently
writing her comedy show about being a mother to her three children, Ella (12), Joe (two) and Tammy (seven months), and the challenges and laughs that ensue. “It’s my first solo show and I just thought I’d give it a go because I couldn’t go to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this year as my baby is still so young. I just thought I need to get all of this off my chest so this show is how I’m doing it.” When asked if she has any advice for any
Actress and stand-up comedian Emma Doran
young mothers on how to escape the mayhem she laughs: “Yes, if your child or particularly your baby is sleeping and you’re thinking to yourself that they have been asleep for
a while, don’t worry. Just leave them asleep. Don’t question it, just take that time. Any little windows of time that you get, just take them.” Doran will appear in
her solo show, Mammy Wants a Drink, at the Mill Theatre in Dundrum on September 18 and 19, 2015. Tickets are available at www.milltheatre.ie
Gazette
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dublinlife
feature
When choice makes it impossible to choose CONSUMERS have never had so much choice. When described like that, this sounds like a good thing. Consumers have also never had to make so many difficult decisions. Put this way, the same idea is a bit less enticing. This increase in choice, and decisions has partly come about because of changes in technology, but also because of the opening up of many markets to greater competition. These include the markets for gas, electricity, telecommunications, health insurance and various financial services, like banking, credit cards and pensions. When buying these products, the available choices and the number of features of the product we must consider can feel overwhelming. Some experts in decision-making believe that making good decisions in these markets has become almost impossible. It can be very difficult to decide which product is most suitable for us. Decisions are difficult also when we must predict the future, as when buying a house. As well as weighing up the many different features of each property, we have to consider what might happen to prices, the direction of interest rates and how confident we are that we can earn enough in future to meet mortgage repayments. The ESRI (Economic and Social Research Institute), the State-run think tank, is now con-
ducting a research programme in behavioural economics. Behavioural economists study the psychological factors behind our economic decisions – why we choose what we do, how we go about it, whether we make accurate and consistent decisions, and so on. Behavioural economics has developed rapidly in recent years. It uses experiments to study our decisions scientifically. The results are changing the way economists around the world think about how markets work. In Ireland, the ESRI now has a behavioural economics laboratory, PRICE Lab. It is funded by four of the main economic regulators: the Central Bank, the Communications Regulator (ComReg), the Commission for Energy Regulation and the recently formed Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. Consumers in the Dublin area can come to PRICE Lab to take part in these experiments. The ESRI pays them a small fee and the experiments take around one hour of people’s time. They involve sitting in front of a computer screen and making lots of choices between different products at different prices. The participants who perform the best at the tasks win vouchers. The findings are already proving interesting. It turns out that most of us find it difficult to weigh up more than two or three features of a product at
Dr Peter Lunn, Senior Research Officer at the ESRI which now has a behavioural economics laboratory, PRICE Lab
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When choosing between houses, mortgages or health insurance, which can differ in dozens of ways, consumers are likely to struggle -------------------------------------------------------
Dr Peter Lunn
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the same time. That’s not a problem in markets where there are only a few things that need careful consideration, but when choosing between houses, mortgages or health insurance plans, which can differ from each other in
dozens of different ways, it suggests that consumers are likely to struggle. Many may fail to choose the best option or end up paying more than they should. Companies can also exploit this limit in the amount of information
that consumers can handle. They can promote the one or two product features that make the product look good and successfully hide the features on which it is inferior to competitors. They can also list prices as discounts from a “standard” price. This looks attractive, but PRICE Lab’s findings show that it makes life harder for consumers, who must process two pieces of information instead of one. Another result to emerge from PRICE Lab is that we find it easier
to choose when product features are straightforwardly good or bad. Examples are the speed of broadband or the price per unit of gas, where more of the good thing or less of the bad thing is always better. We str uggle more when a feature can be both too little or too great, so that we need to find the level that is just right, like with the number of minutes of talk-time or the duration of a mortgage. PRICE Lab’s aim is to discover what kinds of products and prod-
uct descriptions make it easier or harder for us to make good decisions. In some cases it may be possible for regulators to promote marketing practices that help consumers, or to prevent companies from using pricing methods likely to cause them to make errors. If you would like to contribute to this research by participating in the experiments, you can sign up at www. esri.ie/be.
Dr Peter Lunn Senior Research Officer at the ESRI
17 September 2015 Gazette 17
travel P20
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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style P18
Pets A husky full of love and beans
Vampires Camille Ross and Robert McDermott were not happy to be caught veggie shopping on Moore Street ahead of the Bram Stoker Festival. Picture: Andres Poveda
Bram Stoker: weekend invites you to get in touch with your dark side
A ‘bloody great craic’ fest
keith bellew kbellew@dublingazette.com
THE Bram Stoker Festival returns in 2015, with a programme full of gloriously Gothic events for the October Bank Holiday Weekend. Each year the festival is organised by a different team with an entirely different programme of events. This week The Gazette spoke to this year’s festival organiser, Tom Lawlor, about the festival highlights. He says the goal of this year’s team is to give Dublin four days of stories and deadly adventures. This year’s programme aims to open out the festival to Dubliners and international visitors. “Largely, we’re looking at the city centre as somewhere that has a very
Gothic history and we’re opening that history up to people in the city across four days of the October bank holiday weekend. “We’ve programmed the entire festival so you can experience it by day and by night; so there are day events and night events. The daytime events are what we’re calling Living Stories, so it’s a chance to delve a little bit deeper into Dublin’s dark past.” He added that a number of the daytime events are geared towards families and children. One of these is Stokerland, a Victorian-themed pop-up park, which will be located at Wolfe Tone Square on October 25. Stokerland will provide a range of activities including tents where fami-
lies can have a tin plate Victorian portrait taken, receive Gothic makeovers, and Victorian goodies. Fancy dress is encouraged. One of the biggest highlights of this year’s festival will be the return to Dublin of world-renowned street artist Maser, who will create an interactive installation in Smithfield Square. “He’s going to be building an interactive installation, which will look like a utopian city that people can wander through and that’s going to be on display throughout the festival. “Also,we have a Twilight procession by the Galway company, Macnas, who were here last year. They’re coming back with their citywide parade from 5pm on bank holiday Monday. “They will parade along three dif-
ferent routes that people can join, and which will culminate in Wolfe Tone Square with some pyrotechnics.” The main theme of the procession will be Angels and Demons. Working with the Lighthouse cinemas in Smithfield, the festival will host a night of 1990s-era vampire flicks, including Blade I and II, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Francis Ford Coppola’s Dracula and Quentin Tarantino’s From Dusk til Dawn. The festival’s flagship late-night gala party, New Blood, will be held at the Project Arts Theatre on October 25 and 26, with bespoke cocktails, local and international live acts and DJs and loads of bloody craic. For a full list of programme events visit www.bramstkerfestival.com
The Dublin Gazette Newspaper Group have teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week this week is Beans, a two-yearold female husky cross. If you’re looking for a super smart, cheeky monkey to share your life with then Beans could be the girl for you. Beans by name and beans by nature! Beans needs to live in a calm, adult environment just to prevent her getting too giddy, as she is currently recovering from an old hip injury. Beans is very selective about the dogs she likes, so would do best as an only dog in the home. If you think you could offer Beans her forever home, please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook. com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. Don’t forget that you can also support Dogs Trust by checking out their online shop www.dogstrustshop.ie
action using the new brush for a long-lasting, chip-free colour. Suzanne’s top tips for great application are to follow a few simple steps: “Make sure the nails are shaped, filed and buffed before applying any polish. “T hen, apply one thin layer of SOSU base coat, two thin layers of a SOSU colour of your choice, followed by a thin layer of SOSU top coat, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.” The new autumn/ winter collection colours range is available from pharmacies nationwide, Penneys stores, and selected nail salons. All polishes are priced with a RRP of €7.99.
Feel ultimate comfort with latest Clarins eye palette THE new eye make-up palette from Clarins has 10 gorgeous, on-trend eye colours with a variety of matte and satin finishes. Plant and mineral extracts such as musk rose oil and white meadowfoam guarantee a feeling of ultimate comfort on the lid. The palette has a RRP of €43.
Fake brows with the best thanks to Urban Decay mimi murray
I MAY not have been born with brows like Cara Delevingne, but with Urban Decay’s Brow Beater Microfine Brow Pencil and Brush (above), I can now fake it. And, really, this product (with a RRP of €18.50) does the business. I have been using this product for a couple of weeks and have had numerous comments on my amazing arches. It’s simple to use, with a variety of colours on offer, and will become a constant in my make-up bag.
Tuck stitch jumper €15.97 Contrast stripe dress €25
Cardigan with zip €12.99; Grey jodhpurs €5.99; (Both available late November.)
mimi murray
A NEW season can mean lots of new trends, and for those of us who like to remain fashionconscious, it can be a right pain for the cashstrapped! So, Gazette Style has had a look at some ways you can stay bang on trend without breaking the bank. The 70s are a massive theme throughout autumn-winter that has carried forward from the summer, so pull out a pair of flares from Heatons, and team with a simple roll-neck from Littlewoods. Easy peasy. Have a look at some other key items to keep you snug and sartorially sound this winter.
Tube skirt €20
LIDL
AFTER great success launching her 25-colour gel nail polish collection, Suzanne Jackson has added eight new colours to her SOSU by Suzanne Jackson range for the autumn/winter season. Warming greys, bold reds and glistening golds are some new colours you can expect to see in stores by the end of August. As well as adding eight new colours to the range, all polishes will include a new brush for a simple and quick application. SOSU Nail Polish is an innovative gel nail polish that requires no UV lamp and results in long-lasting, salon quality nails. The polish can easily be applied in one
Khaki parka €15.99
Faux leather leggings €6.99
L ITT L E W O O D S
Brighten up autumn nails with new SOSU
H EAT O N S
OUT&ABOUT
SO70SSTYLE
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18 Gazette 17 September 2015
Roll neck top €22
Embellished jeans €47
Patchwork poncho €53
17 September 2015 Gazette 19
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STYLE
Stars inspire Juvi’s glittering bracelets
Black and white tea dress €20; Snake back boots €25; Bag €15
Knit roll neck €20 True denim flare €25
True denim skinny €22.50
Tan biker jacket €19.99 Khaki waterfall top €12.99
Grey jumper dress €9.99
Lidl items mostly available from midto late-November
AWARD-winning Irish beauty. jewellery company, Juvi “Out walking one Designs, has unveiled moonless night, I was its Shooting Star collec- overwhelmed looking tion for autumn-winter, up; I can only describe introducing delicate it as magical beauty. stars in sparkling gold, “There were more rose gold and shining stars than I had ever silver, paired with beau- seen, along with gortiful precious gems. geous star clusters and From the cute Lucky the beautiful band of Star stud earrings to the Milky Way.” the elegant You Are My Juvi’s carefully crafted Shining Star bracelet Shooting Star collection and Star Clusis made by Julie and Vinter necklace, cent at their studio these lightin Dublin. weight J u l i e pieces said: “Stars are percan mean fect for a lot to Gold vermeil €59, l ay e rpeople, Silver €55 ing and symwill add bolisa sparkly ing anytwinkle to thing any look. f r o m Husband a new and wife duo beginning to a Julie Danz and Vincent turning point in Tynan began casting a person’s life. They tiny stars in sterling remind us of distant lovsilver, and plating with ers, adventures, friends, layers of 24-carat gold family, past dreams and and rose gold, follow- future hopes. I think ing a trip to a famous stars are magical, and stargazing spot in Ball- that’s what this collecinskelligs, County Kerry tion represents.” earlier this year. With prices starting J u l i e s ay s : “ T h e from €45, Juvi’s Shootr e s e r ve i s n e s t l e d ing Star collection is beneath the moun- available at House of tains and overlooks Fraser, Arnotts, Kilkenthe Atlantic Ocean. ny, independent retailIf you’ve ever visited ers throughout Ireland, Kerry, you will know of or at www.juvidesigns. its outstanding natural com.
Luxury Body Shop oils mimi murray
Loop knit jumper €74 Rochelle Humes high waist jeans €39
Rip and repair skinny jeans €43
South Mongolian coat €240; Definitions orange suede shirt €35; TFNC black polo €25; Carvella black boots €240
THE Oils of Life range is a new daily life-infusing skincare range from the Body Shop that revitalises, replenishes and revives skin, as well as visibly reducing the signs of ageing. What makes this range so special is the three precious and potent natural seed oils that are used to make this range – black cumin seed oil, camellia seed oil and rosehip seed oil. I loved these products – such as the facial oil (right), €48 – as they feel beautifully decadent and the packaging will look great in any bathroom.
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20 Gazette 17 September 2015
OUT&ABOUT
fast
TRAVEL NEWS
TRAVEL
tranquil: Keeping rural luxury real with woodland forage
Sunny alternative to those winter blues WE all look forward to a break at Christmas time, but it seems the stress of the holiday season can make us even more tired when we come back to work in January. What’s the solution? Take a sun holiday! Abbey Travel has come up with its top three Christmas sun destinations for those looking to escape from the winter cold. First on the list is Puerto Rico in Gran Canaria. Puerto Rico is perfectly positioned on the southern side of the island, which means it is warm and sunny all year round. Puerto Del Carmen in Lanzarote takes second place on the list of Abbey Travel’s top destinations to spend the Christmas period in. Finally, Corralejo in Fuerteventura comes in third, and is ideal for those interested in a much more peaceful time than many of the other resorts on the Canary Islands. To book your Christmas holiday visit www. abbeytravel.ie.
Abbey Travel kicks off season packages
THE Premier League is back for the 2015-16 season. With Abbey Travel you can be there in the flash to support your favourite team without the hassle of haggling for match tickets or trying to find a nearby hotel. Abbey Travel is offering hotel-and-matchticket packages for Liverpool matches from €239, for Man United matches from €129, for Arsenal from €279 and Chelsea from €329. Prices are per person and based on two sharing. Included is one night in a three-star city centre hotel, breakfast and guaranteed match ticket. For more information on available packages, contact Abbey Travel on 01 8047102 or visit www.abbeytravel.ie.
Dainty old-world design and calm, neutral creams and greens are the hallmark of the Step House Hotel bedroom
A step above the rest for charm and fine food
Aishling Phelan
THE drive into the picturesque village of Borris, County Carlow, as the sun sliced through the clouds and beamed on glorious Mount Leinster, was a treat in itself. Sitting in the fertile valley of the river Barrow, the Step House Hotel faces the main gate to this Tudor-style ancestral home of the former Irish Kings of Leinster. Ruby red roses and delicate baby’s breath were dotted around the boutique hotel, while inside the spacious bedroom was the prettiest hotel room I have ever stayed in, with its dainty oldworld design. Its neutral cream decor with gold accents in every piece of furniture and sweeping powdery
green curtains made for the perfect atmosphere of tranquillity. But the best was yet to come. As I stepped onto the large private balcony, the magnificent view, with small clouds floating across the expanse of Mount Leinster, took my breath away. The luxury and character of the hotel made for an extra special weekend trip away. First, it was time for a hands-on bread making workshop in the ballroom with head chef Alan Foley and his team. We got to work on a brown bread recipe and the chefs also showed us how to make the range of white bread baked in the Step House kitchen. Curry bread? No, I hadn’t heard of it either but I would later experi-
ence that culinary sensation at dinner. After an afternoon of kicking back in our cosy room, it was off to the opulent surroundings of the private cocktail lounge for some bubbly treats. The restaurant is a small, cosy and intimate space. After scanning the menu, which relies on an array of local produce, I began with a starter of tasty organic herb risotto. For the main event, I chose succulent roast plaice with artichoke, ravioli and mushroom juices. I passed on the luscious dessert offerings opting for the more humble sounding ice cream selection. Sound boring? Not at the Step House Hotel. I was presented with a divine combination of
coconut, caramel and passion fruit flavours. The following morning, we delved into the woodlands on the outskirts of the Georgian village – after a delicious breakfast, of course. We visited the 16-acre Blackstairs Ecotrails facility to take part in a Find It, Pick It, Cook It, Eat It workshop. The foraging walks are run by former Green Party TD and minister Mary White and husband Robert. They have been keeping records of the area’s diverse ecosystem since 1975. Channelling my inner child, I abandoned my smartphone and took just a small notepad and pen as we set off to explore the rich land. We ducked under swinging branches, crossed wooden planks
guiding us across the streams and tip-toed over mossy carpets. The couple spoke passionately about the land’s ecological community and I couldn’t help but envy their peaceful lifestyle. We discussed the Celtic history of the towering trees and picked wild garlic, enjoying its tangy aroma. Later, we returned to the workshop to make mouth-watering wild garlic pesto and sweet sloe gin. Then it was time to go home but not before enjoying a wholesome serving of pumpkin soup, sandwiches and their signature bread selection. I collected my brown bread made the previous day and left feeling like a master chef after my culinary weekend at Step House Hotel.
17 September 2015 Gazette 21
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FOOD&DRINK BITESIZEDNEWS
Donegal rapeseed oil wins as healthy option
Hophouse/Kimchi Korean/Japanese fare
60 Parnell St Hophouse/Kimchi’s impressive menu is extensive, with the traditional Korean side dish, kimchi, a spicy mix variety of seasoning, to set your tastebuds humming
The Picky Eater SOMETIMES you don’t want the Italian. Or the French. Or the burger. It’s Friday and after a hectic week, the smartphone makes a fusion takeaway too complicated. Go out? Yes. But what to eat? Nil desperandum. Picky Eater is here to save you from this gastronomic indecision and send you downtown – to Parnell Street, and a little gem right beside the Shakespeare Pub, near the Gate Theatre, the Rotunda Hospital and the Gresham Hotel. Vintage Dublin, in other words. The modern Hophouse/Kimchi slots in well, cosying up to the hostelry and offering sanctuary to the indecisive Friday-nighter. Korean and Japanese food aplenty is on offer, with an ethnic or a domestic beverage to help you on your way. Green tea, plum wine, sake, Asahi, Kirin and Guinness to mention but a few are all on offer as accompaniments or pre-
prandial tipples to your sushi or bibimbap choice. Once inside, there’s a busy-ness that makes you feel like a tourist in your own city. You couldn’t give the interior or exterior decor ten out of ten, but the food is excellent, fairly priced and the staff are cheerful – what more could you want, really? The menu is extensive, with kimchi to set your tastebuds humming. This traditional Korean side dish is made of vegetables with a variety of seasonings. There are hundreds of varieties made from napa cabbage, radish, scallion, or cucumber as a main ingredient. So do have a dollop so you can say you tried it. Otherwise, it’s like eating “an Irish” without the spuds. The menu is massive, but Picky was undaunted: for starters, we had vegetarian mandu (dumplings) and endamame beans (boiled and salted). The dumplings were piping hot and hopping with flavour.
Sweet chilli and soy dips kept the tastes alive. The beans we gobbled down with our Korean beer. For mains, Picky’s companion had almost gone native, reminiscing about youthful trips to Korea and salivating over the upcoming bulgogi bibimbap. This signature Korean dish, which literally means “mixed rice”, was set before him and he breathed in deeply. The steaming bowl of white rice was topped with namul (sauteed and seasoned vegetables) and gochujang (chili pepper paste) had a raw egg and sliced beef on top. He stirred the hot dish together thoroughly just before eating, and disappeared into seventh heaven. Picky opted for a veg-
etarian bento box big enough for two: several chunks of silky tofu with contrasting crispy coat; two vegetable tempura – deliciously crunchy; a satisfying deep-fried slice of sweet potato rounded off with three pieces of sushi, and two little spring rolls. Wasabi, pickled ginger, soy and sweet chilli sauces set it all off nicely. The meal for two without dessert but with two beers and a green tea came to just over €50. The food had that “just cooked” air about it as it hit the table and our stomachs. Hophouse/K imchi demands a return visit. If you haven’t been, then get yourself down there ASAP. And, as Koreans say when raising a glass, Gun Bae!
Conclusion SET A stone’s throw from the city centre, Hophouse/Kimchi (at 60 Parnell St, Dublin 1; tel 01 872 8318) serves tasty, authentic Korean/Japanese staples at fair prices.
of vegetables with a
THE Donegal Rapeseed Oil Company has won awards for taste, and health benefits, for four consecutive years as it is fast becoming one of the world’s best producers of rapeseed oil. What makes the county’s oil so special is the way, and where, the rapeseed is grown. Situated in Raphoe in the fertile Laggan district of east Donegal, the rapeseed oil company only uses rapeseed grown in soil along the Wild Atlantic Way by local farmers, which creates a delicious and unique taste experience. As just some of its benefits, Donegal Cold Pressed Virgin Rapeseed Oil Donegal Cold Pressed Virgin Rapeseed Oil has 10 times more omega 3 than olive and coconut and some fish oils, and 10 times more omega 6 than coconut and olive oils. It is also very high in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for a healthy heart, is a good source of vitamin E, and contains no artificial preservatives and is GM free. The French have been using rapeseed oil for years in all areas of cuisine. Irish cold-pressed virgin rapeseed oil is available in 250ml (RRP €3.99) and 500ml (RRP €5.99) sizes.
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22 Gazette 17 September 2015
OUT&ABOUT
CINEMA
ReelReviews
no escape
A sidestep for Wilson ANOTHER week on, and Owen Wilson still hasn’t found a way to get his family to safety in the middle of a violent coup in No Escape (Cert 15A, 103 mins). Drawing criticism in some quarters for its tone, the film marks an unusual sidestep for Wilson, setting aside his usual bromance comedies and feel-good films for this actioner, with Pierce Brosnan in a supporting role.
the visit
Creepy, yet amusing, too IN M Night Shyamalan’s latest, The Visit (Cert 15A, 94 mins), two kids are sent to their estranged country grandparents for a catch-up holiday – their first, with the old couple. However, events soon turn stranger and stranger at the farmhouse ... The two young leads turn in great, naturalistic performances, but Deanna Dunagan totally steals the show as the increasingly kooky, creepy grandma.
irrational man
Makes plenty of sense WOODY Allen’s latest, Irrational Man (Cert 15A, 95 mins) proves a talkily entertaining chance to waste 90 minutes at the cinema. A college professor with a less than perfect life is a great base to build a typically Woodyesque film on, with Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone crossing paths and words in several ways. Its messed-up characters provide plenty to sympathise with.
While the film won’t change the world, Robert Redford and Nick Nolte breathe plenty of life into their roles, turning in anything but wooden performances
a walk in the woods: takes an aimless but diverting journey
Tale stumbles along amiably
SPANNING more than 3,500km, the Appalachian Trail runs along the eastern length of the United States, cutting through a dozen national forests from Georgia up to Maine, and is one of the longest waymarked walks in the world. With severe weather, bears, venomous snakes, and minimal infrastructure along the way – it is the kind of walk that madmen and fools tend to start – perfect cinematic fodder for A Walk in The Woods. Bryson (Robert Redford) is an accomplished writer, who realises that most of his social life now revolves around attending funerals. Reflecting on a life of travel and adventure, and
Dave phillips
uncomfortable with facing into old-age, he becomes captivated with the idea of walking the Appalachian Trail as his last great hurrah, much to the dismay of his wife, Catherine (Emma Thompson). Catherine’s infatuation with the multitude of risks facing Bryson on the trail lead to her insisting that he can only go on his adventure if he has company, and the only one of Bryson’s old crew willing to take the journey with him is his long-estranged
college friend, Katz (Nick Nolte). The film is based on Bill Bryson’s best-selling memoir of the same name, and while some elements of the story have significantly changed in its transition to film (the real life Bryson and Katz were in their 40s when they walked the trail), the odd-couple pairing has remained. Bryson is scholarly, stoical, and a little stiff in himself. He has a happy relationship with his wife, his kids have grown up successfully, and his grandchildren love him. His books sell well, and the walls of his study are decorated with awards and honorary positions. Katz, in contrast, maintained the wild-man
lifestyle; he never settled down, he has a history of struggling with booze, and he seems happiest when he is laying down playing harmonica to himself. Accepting the age shift from the book, this is some spot-on casting. Redford’s great at capturing that prim and proper veneer, but with a peek of something else just beneath the surface. You can tell the tale is driven by a sense of jealousy and rage, rallying against the urge to go quietly into the good night. Nolte channels his inner Bukowski; a whiskey-shone nose and a gravelly, broken voice bring decades of suffering to life in Katz, who hobbles painfully up and down the trail.
However, despite some great performances from the two leads, A Walk in the Woods does feel a little flat, possibly because it has the potential to go a lot deeper than it ever does. There is no doubt that Bryson and Katz’s misadventures are entertaining, but there is a larger, existential layer to the journey that seems frequently alluded to but never explored. Perhaps director Ken Kwapis’s long history in TV comedy keeps the focus on the lighter, superficial elements of the story, and in fairness they are what he can make work. Late night encounters with bears, altercations with local rednecks, and ditching awkward travelling companions (there’s
a fun cameo from Flight of the Conchord’s Kristen Schaal) are all handled expertly. Elements such as Bryson’s sense of righteousness, or his relationship with his wife, or Katz’s problems with alcohol are explored much more clumsily and frivolously. While the rigid Bryson and the unruly Katz eventually find a common understanding, the film’s attempt to marry its comedic and dramatic parts doesn’t end as well. It still maintains that Sunday afternoon kind of vibe where you can watch two ageing greats have fun together, but you can’t shake the feeling that somewhere along the trail we took a wrong turn. Verdict: 5/10
17 September 2015 Gazette 23
Gazette
MUSIC festival: electric picnic 2015, Stradbally
Sparks fly as the stars create electrifying gigs colm murray
THIS week Gazette Music reviews Electric Picnic 2015, which provided plenty of flavour for music fans to tuck in to at this year’s festival.
Friday The addition of a few thousand more punters – to the official capacity of 51,000 – did little to dampen the boutique vibe. The absence of rain this year in the lead up to, and right through the weekend, was the icing on the cake. Kicking off the main stage, festival favourites Ham Sandwich provided the first of many encroachments by band members to the crowd. The Coronas followed suit, and got the job done to a rapturous welcome, and a no less powerful set. With the majority of the stages not opening until the following day, a scheduling clash offered 90s shoegazers Ride their set a day early. The opening chimes of Leave Them All Behind got the crowd going as they blazed through a blistering set of distortion-drenched classics. Grace Jones and Underworld are no strangers to Stradbally. With the former still as eccentric and spellbinding as ever, she kept a hula hoop spinning in high heels for the duration of Slave To The Rhythm.
Under world, af ter the tingling Spoonman, and Dark & Long et al, finished up the evening with the obligatory Born Slippy, leaving the crowd to float off to wherever the evening took them.
Saturday The sun came out and remained for the duration of the day, adding a psychedelic hue to the by now completed site.
it was on to the main stage. Hot Chip brought a little samba to the main stage, reworking Ready for the Floor with a wash of percussion. With a back catalogue of hits, they’ve grown into bonafide party starters, with a quirky take on Dancing In The Dark as the sun started to set. It’s a shame that the sound system let them down in the volume department. Chvrches were a huge draw at The Electric Arena, thanks to their blend of electro-lite pop.
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‘A quick 360-degree look-around took in weird art installations, a distant fairground and a lot of trees, all soundtracked by genuinely unique psychedelica’
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Battles were on top form, with drummer John Stanier’s rhythmic assault at the heart of everything. The War on Drugs, over in the Electric arena, melted their epic American rock with sprinklings of Mike Scott’s Waterboys to produce a sound that stretched beyond the loyal throngs within. A quick dash to hear the last few verses of Horse Outside from the Rubberbandits over in the comedy tent, and
But we were happy to make do with Yasiin Bey, arriving just in time for a seemingly spontaneous Biggie Smalls cover. For such a genuine music icon, it was a relatively under-attended show, most likely because the average punter may only know this man by his former stage name, Mos Def. Dublin’s Meltybrains? were perfect for Body & Soul. A quick 360-degree look-around took in weird art installations, a
distant fairground and a lot of trees, all soundtracked by the band’s genuinely unique brand of beautiful, trippy rockpsychedelica. Even a moment spent watching Meltybrains? defined this festival in a nutshell. Just next door, and things were equally wild and wacky at the Jerry Fish Electric Sideshow. Fight Like Apes were dealing with stage invasions and general chaos, with more people outside the tent impatiently peering in than could actually see the band. Push It, by Salt ‘n’ Peppa, was a carcrash cover. As for Saturday’s headliners, Blur, they were arguably the biggest band to have played Electric Picnic. With all interpersonal issues put to bed and energised with a new album, Blur were clearly enjoying themselves and the pressure is off. Damon had the crowd in the palm of his hand from early on. Every song was gold, from There’s No Other Way through Badhead, Beetlebum and This is a Low. A muted greeting for the likes of For Tomorrow and even To the End suggested the average audience age was lower than we thought, however. On the other hand, timeless classics such
Nice to see you too, Damon Albarn. Blur’s blistering set didn’t disappoint, with older classics to catch alongside contemporary tracks. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography.
as Song 2 and Parklife (performed with 11 fans plucked from the crowd – apparently one for each percentage of Irishness in Damon’s DNA) provided the greatest response from the crowd.
Sunday Jurassic 5 were the early afternoon crowd pleaser, with Cut Chemist and Dj Numark in tow. Concrete Schoolyard provided the biggest cheers of the afternoon, with heads bobbing in unison to a classic. With the all-Ireland hurling final shown on a big screen next to the Mindfield, there was plenty to keep punters busy. Heritage act Boomtown Rats gave it socks, with Geldof in great form, prowling the stage in his fake snakeskin suit,
Taking in the atmosphere at the Heineken Sound Atlas Tokyo area were Carmel Desmond and Karen Kenny
with killer tunes in tow. Later, Manic Street Preachers launched into Motorcycle Emptiness, and their energy spread throughout the crowd. A perfect slot to have them in, and they wasted none of the opportunity. It began here, six years ago for headliner Flor-
ence and the Machine. Now a festival headliner, her set was reminiscent of the Glastonbury headliner set back in June. As the closing echoes of a manic Dog Days are Over waved over us, it was time to see what we could salvage from the remainder of the evening.
GAZETTE
24 GAZETTE 17 September 2015
OUT&ABOUT
FastHEALTH Men, don’t delay – make Blue September the time to check up on cancer BLUE September has returned this year to raise awareness of, and start a dialogue on, male-specific cancers. This year, the campaign – which is sponsored by VHI Healthcare – aims to highlight men’s attitudes to their health and to encourage men to be more proactive about checking themselves for signs of cancer. To start this year’s campaign, the Men’s Cancer Alliance, in collaboration with Behaviour and Attitudes Research, conducted a survey of more than 900 Irish men of all ages and backgrounds and their knowledge of male-specific cancers, as well as their habits and attitudes towards their health. The findings showed a marked lack of knowledge of cancer among men. Examples of this included that almost half of men researched in the risk/age category for testicular cancer would not be confident in recognising the common symptoms of the illness. Some 80% of the men researched in the risk/age category for testicular cancer did not know that the best way to check for testicular cancer symptoms is a regular self-check. In addition, 81% of men aged 16 and over in Ireland have neither checked themselves or been checked by a doctor for a prostate or testes-related problem. Finally, 44% believed the reason for men being slower to visit their doctor compared to women is because they are afraid of finding out what the problem is, with 41% of respondents saying they would hope the symptoms would simply go away. Micheal Sheridan, of the Men’s Cancer Alliance, and chief executive of Mercy Hospital Foundation, said the group has produced a series of pocketsized fold-out leaflets, with each dedicated to specific cancers. He said: “These easy to read leaflets are available from Men’s Cancer Alliance website, at menscancer.ie. “We are asking the public to support this campaign by organising a fundraising event, or by making a donation via www.blueseptember.ie.”
Launching Blue September 2015 were Mary Moorehead, Men’s Cancer Alliance (MCA), Micheal Sheridan, MCA; Dr Bernadette Carr, medical director, VHI Healthcare; ex-Ireland Rugby International Tony Ward and Richard Flaherty, MCA
MUSIC HEALTH
ON CALL PT: EXERCISING AT HOME COULD BE PERFECT FOR YOU
The personal touch to push your training
SUZANNE SHEEHY
WITH the impending winter coming, there’re so many things to think about. Inevitably, you will get carried away with school runs, taking on a new routine for the winter months ahead. Plus, you will probably feel less energetic and getting in shape, so keeping your exercise routine going is less likely to be at the forefront of your mind as you just can’t find the time. If this sounds like you, On Call PT is the solution. This is a home training service where dedicated trainers come to you so you can train in your own living room or at home, making it easier than ever to get in shape. Once you contact On Call PT, you receive a free consultation. Your assigned trainer will come to your home. Body fat measurements, weight and blood pressure will be taken, and your trainer will also discuss your goals and your budget. What people don’t realise is that you don’t need a huge space – an average size front room is sufficient to get a great quality workout, while a big back garden will also suffice. I decided to try out On Call PT, and I found it very convenient. I was guided by my personal trainer, Dave Kenny, with a customised workout plan. All the equipment that I needed in my training session was provided, from resistant bands, kettlebells, power bag, body
Whether for one-to-one training or to work out with your friends, On Call PT could be the perfect answer. Personal trainer Dave Kenny (main) provided a comprehensive set of exercises to maximise results.
pump barbell and boxing gloves. My workout had great variety, with a mix up of mobility/flexibility and activation stretches, high-intensity exercise with short rest periods between sets. Working both the upper and lower body, I finished up with some core exercises, consisting of sit-ups, Russian twists, plank holds and plank side touches, and I certainly felt those muscles working! There was great structure and focus around my goals, and I found that there was no slacking
off during my workout, especially when things got tough. Kenny encouraged me, and challenged me to do more than I would have done on my own. You just have to dig a little deeper to push yourself. I would be keen on continuing monthly sessions to keep me focused and interested in my training.
Reasons Here are some words from On Call PT on the reasons to hire a personal trainer: 1. Motivation – training alone and motivat-
ing yourself can be hard. Pushing yourself to do that last rep when you are at the end of your session can be even harder. Our trainers are there to encourage, support and motivate you to ensure you get the best possible results from every workout. 2. Education – Our trainers take time with every client to go through the basics, ie correct form, lifting technique, stretches, etc. Knowing the basics will ensure that you execute your exercises correctly and will also help you to avoid any unnecessary injuries.
3. Support – Even when our trainers have left your home and your session is over, they are still there to support you. They offer online support for all clients. Whether it’s questions about your diet – or a pep talk to help you on the tough days – they can be contacted. Also, if you and your partner, or a group of friends, fancy getting together and training, then On Call PT can train you as a group. For further information, call 085 7704302, email oncallpt@mail.com, or see www.oncallpt.net.
17 September 2015 Gazette 25
GAMING interview: composer jessica curry
WEEBYTES
Noteworthy insights into how music can affect gaming READERS may recall my recent look at the beautiful, enigmatic PlayStation 4 title, Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture, and my focus on its haunting soundtrack by Baftanominated composer Jessica Curry. I caught up with Jessica last weekend, to learn first-hand a little more about her work and creative process. I began by asking her how she ended up composing computer game soundtracks, given that there aren’t many award-winning, critically acclaimed composers working in this field. “I was dragged into the games industry kicking and screaming! Dan Pinchbeck [creative director/studio head at games studio The Chinese Room] was writing his PhD on first-person shooters, and asked me to write some music for one of the experiments that was linked to his doctorate. “That game was Dear Esther [an award-winning, critically acclaimed and heavily narrative-driven title set on an unnamed island in the Hebrides], and the rest is history!” While every composer has their own unique voice, who would be your main inspirations – whether classic composers or any contemporary
shane dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com
bands and artists? “I have a really wide range of people who inspire me – Bach, The Cardiacs, Joni Mitchell, Thomas Newman, Durufle, Wim Mertens and the Nashville soundtrack are currently on my playlist. Told you it was eclectic!” Your most recent, and critically lauded, soundtrack for Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture is a beautiful and perhaps quintessentially Englishsounding score, mixing pastoral melodies with occasionally sombre yet uplifting choral segments. Have you ever felt pressured to create more generic scores? “The incredible part of the story is that I am also joint studio head at our company, The Chinese Room. This means that I can shape the titles that we make and there is never any pressure to conform to the norms of the games industry. “We make games that are very different to the usual fare that is presented, so that means I have free rein with the music –
it’s a joy.” When composing for a specific project such as Rapture, is there a principal hook that guides your work? What defines or guides your overall focus on a project? “As always in our games, the music goes much further than just providing the emotional core of the game, although that’s vital, too. We use music as a storytelling device – often using lyrics to give the player backstory and additional context for understanding the game or a specific character. “Rapture has been the most complicated score yet. Each of the six main characters has their own theme. The game is nonlinear and open-world, so the music had to act as a guide to the player. “Creating distinct themes for each main character was one way of helping the player to locate who they were listening to. Remember, there are no character visualisations in the game. “ The choir also form a really important part of the musical story in the game; in a way, taking on the role of a Greek chorus, commenting on the action as it unfolds. “They are also symbolic as, for me, the human voice represents so much of what this game is trying
Would-be American president, John McAfee
McAfee joins political race
Jessica Curry, an award-winning Bafta-nominated composer and joint studio head at games studio, The Chinese Room. Her most recent score accompanies Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture (below); a PlayStation 4 title set in a very pretty, deserted English village immediately after the apocalypse.
to say – we are here for such a short time, but it’s the connections that we form while we are here that matter.” Yo u ’ v e a l r e a d y notched up some very impressive credentials, with collaboration work taking in such diverse institutions as the Royal Opera House and Great Ormond Street Hospital. Do you ever find that your video game composing is seen as less worthy of your talents, or are you happy that fans and critics alike judge your work on its own merits? “I absolutely hate snobbery in any form, I just can’t abide it! Video games are as much a valid cultural form as anything else out there, and I will bare-knuckle fight anyone who says different!” Given such success, to date, can you see yourself setting aside gaming scores to focus on more ‘purist’ compositional work, or are you happy to just keep working on projects that you find engaging, regardless of their origin? “As in the past, I will continue accepting commissions that inspire and
JOHN McAfee – he of McAfee Antivirus software fame – has announced that he, too, is also running to be the next American president, as an Independent candidate. Famously described by Dean Barrow, the president of Belize, as being “extremely paranoid, even bonkers”, McAfee briefly went on the run in late 2012 in Belize after a neighbour of his was found dead of a gunshot wound, with McAfee blogging about his experiences of life on the lam and evading authorities. Turning up in Guatemala City, and eventually being deported to America, Belizean authorities went on to drop any charges against McAfee.
Jedi scrapes at Skelligs
excite me. The medium that the music plays in has always been the least interesting aspect of the work I undertake, and I can’t see that changing.” And, finally – what next for Jessica Curry? “I am about to embark on a wonderful commission that hasn’t been announced yet. It’s in
collaboration with a very famous contemporary poet, and the work will premiere at Durham Cathedral next year. I can’t wait!” The Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture soundtrack is available to buy on Amazon.com, priced £10.99/£6.99 digital download.
IT HAS just been revealed that Luke Skywalker (AKA actor, Star Wars icon and highly-popular gaming voiceover artist Mark Hamill) almost met an ignominious end at our own Skellig Michael last year. Hamill joined a long list of people who’ve slipped climbing steep steps at the monastic rocky outcrop, and almost fell to his death. Luckily, faster than a Jedi’s reflexes, a guide grabbed him, saving everyone’s favourite farm boy from Tatooine.
26 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 17 September 2015
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28 gazette 17 September 2015
SPORT
FastSport Sandyford man makes switch to rotterdam: MITCH Darling made a stunning start to life with Rotterdam hockey club in the Netherlands after a last-ditch move to take up a professional contract last week. He scored on debut for the Dutch giants in a 4-2 win over Pinkoke in the first round of the Dutch season having only moved to the club three days earlier. The Sandyford native was part of the Irish side that finished in third place at the European Championships in London in late August and was initially due to play for Three Rock Rovers in Dublin in the upcoming season before the Dutch club came calling. Darling has previously played for SCHC and Den Bosch in the Netherlands and with KHC Leuven in Belgium. He joins a sizeable Irish contingent in European leagues with former TRR club mates Phelie Maguire (Voordaan) and Andy McConnell (Hurley) also in situ.
golf: royal dublin man renews us rivalries after six year break
Kearney teams up for PGA sport@dublingazette.com
NIALL Kearney’s last taste of team golf came in the Walker Cup on America’s east coast at Merion Golf Club,
Pennsylvania in 2009. Six years later, the Royal Dublin pro will again be representing Great Britain and Ireland on US soil but this time in the PGA Cup on
Kearney with the PGA Cup
the west coast at CordeValle, California, from September 18-20. Among his opponents in the Walker Cup was world top 10 player Rickie Fowler who helped the hosts win and America’s PGA pros will pose a similarly tough test as they bid to maintain their vice-like grip on the PGA Cup. Kearney is set to be a key part of Jon Bevan’s 10-man team which is aiming to create history by winning on US turf for the first time since the club pros’ equivalent of the Ryder Cup was first contested in 1973. Kearney, who secured his place in the team by winning the PGA Play-
Royal Dublin’s Niall Kearney
Offs last November, is relishing the challenge. “It is a trip I am really looking for ward to,” he said. “We had a get together at The Belfry where I met all the guys on the team that I didn’t know before and they’re are a great bunch. “The captain Jon Bevan is a great guy – they laid out the itinerary – it is simply unbelievable – five-star treatment – and we are so motivated to beat the US team.” The PGA Cup wasn’t on Kearney’s list of priorities when he teed up in last year’s PGA PlayOffs but it is filling his thoughts ever more as the date nears. “The PGA Cup was always in the back-
ground a bit, then gradually the paper work started to come through – getting the itinerary and then finally the gettogether at The Belfry – it is all building up now – it’s going to be something special “ T h e Wa l ke r C u p was back in 2009 – so that’s a long time ago. I enjoyed the team environment and the different formats. The Irish teams were great – really good times, we gelled really well and had some successful periods as well.” With GB&I having won just once since 1984, the pressure is on Kearney and his teammates to regain the magnificent Llandudno Trophy and Bevan has
been stoking the fires among his players. “ J o n ’s m o t i v a t i o n is that America don’t want to play it any longer simply because they don’t see it as a contest. That’s our motivation – that’s all we needed. “GB&I have been working really hard – they have a great team together, they are giving us the best chance of overturning the Americans. “The standard of the players competing on the GB&I team is really good, there are some very strong competitors. “They are golf guys – comfortable in the environment. I really think we can do well and win it.”
McCrystal and Boylan best of the Irish at Ras na mBan sport@dublingazette.com
Garda cycling club’s Eve McCrystal celebrates winning the best Irish rider category. Picture: Lorraine O’Sullivan
DUBLINER Lydia Boylan and Garda cycling club’s Eve McCrystal both finished in the top 10 on general classification following a fine performance at last week’s Ras na mBan. Boylan finished in sixth place overall, riding in the Team WNT bib, just 26 seconds off the pace set by eventual winner Stephanie Pohl from Germany. Boylan previously rode for Orwell Wheelers before moving across to Nottingham in England and, as such, was riding in
the British category. As such, despite finished 10 seconds further back, McCrystal was the top finisher in the Irish category with a ninth place finish overall after 390km of racing across six stages around Ireland at an average speed of 36.979km/h. Indeed, both riders did make a burst for glory on last weekend’s final stage when they raced clear in the closing kilometres, opening up an advantage of 15 seconds as the charged towards the line. But they were both caught
inside the final kilometre setting up the group sprint to the line taken in emphatic style by Scotland’s Eileen Roe in Ennis to deny them a huge victory. The former British Circuit Race champion powered up the finishing straight ahead of double stage winner Grace Garner (Team RST) from England and Germany’s Stephanie Pohl (South Netherlands-Energy HR). Pohl’s third place thus protected the seven-second advantage she held over Roe to secure overall honours in the tenth edition
of An Post Ras na mBan. Pohl is the second German winner of the event following Stephanie Gronow’s victory in the first event in 2006. Clare County Council Best Irish Rider was the preserve of McCrystal throughout the week and, after an early bike change, she was soon back in the pack ready to contend for stage honours. Best Irish team award went to the Richie’s Garda CC squad of McCrystal, Catherine McAteer, Orla Montague, Karen Robinson and Claire McIlwaine.
17 September 2015 gazette 29
Gazette
Iconic Fenway Park to host Dub hurlers Boston will play host to a unique contest in November when Dublin meet Galway in the new Super 11s format, the first time the city will host a game of this magnitude since 1954 nathan kelly
sport@dublingazette.com
ONE of the world’s most iconic sporting stadiums will host our own iconic sport this November after it was announced the Dublin Senior Hurlers will face Galway in Fenway Park. The home of the Boston Red Sox will host the AIG Fenway Hurling Classic on Sunday November 22. The announcement was made by AIG Insurance in Ireland, the GAA, the Gaelic Players’ Association (GPA), and Fenway Spor ts Management (FSM) on Tuesday in Croke Park. Launch events also took place in the famous Boston stadium after Boston Mayor Marty Walsh made the announce-
ment stateside. Director general of the GAA Paraic Duffy praised the importance of such an event. “It is encouraging to see the interest and impact our national game can have overseas and we’re delighted to be involved in this project for that reason,” he said. “Our overseas network is extremely important to us and bringing hurling to what is widely recognised as an Irish city outside Ireland is massively important to us. It will be an occasion to remember on November 22 as two excellent teams from Dublin and Galway demonstrate the best skills of our games.” The game will form part of an Irish Festival at Fenway Park on
the weekend where all aspects of Irish culture and music will be celebrated. It will be played the day after Boston College take on the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame at Fenway. The Dublin vs Galway clash will be a fresh experience for the intercounty stars as it will be played in the Super 11s format. Super 11s, which is the brainchild of the GPA, is an 11-a-side format of traditional hurling. It allows hurling to be played in stadiums and venues across the globe where the pitch size or playing area is smaller than that of a traditional pitch here in Ireland. Only goals can be scored in the format which may take some getting used to for the
Dublin senior hurler Dotsy O’Callaghan at the launch. Picture: Ramsey Cardy / Sportsfile
Dublin and Galway stars but specific training sessions will be organised by the GAA to ensure both sides are accustomed to the rules ahead of the match. Donal Og Cusack, chairman of the GPA, was also on hand to praise the idea at the
General manager of Dublin GA A’s sponsor AIG Ireland Declan O’Rourke, stated that the links between Boston and Ireland should make this a truly momentous occasion. “We are absolutely delighted and hugely proud to be able to bring
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‘I don’t need to explain the close ties Boston has to Ireland and why Fenway is a fitting venue’ - Declan O’Rourke
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Croke Park launch. “The AIG Fenway Hurling Classic is a truly wonderful opportunity for us to exhibit hurling at a high profile US sporting venue, and there is none more iconic than the home of the Red Sox,” he said. “We believe that hurling ranks alongside the best sports in the world and the staging of this game in Fenway is part of our commitment to convey that message to a new and influential audience.” It will be the first time since November 1954 that hurling will be played at the home of the Red Sox. It was back 61 years ago that the then All-Ireland champions Cork took on and defeated an American hurling selection.
hurling to the iconic Fenway Park in Boston. I don’t need to explain the close ties the city of Boston has to Ireland and that is why it is a fitting venue to play host to one of our national games.” Finally, Sam Kennedy, president of Fenway Sports Group, which is the parent company of the Boston Red Sox and Liverpool FC, was confident the Dublin and Galway hurlers can entertain his hometown fans. “Hurling is one of the most electrifying sports in the world and we think fans are going to enjoy watching all the fastpaced action as two of the most accomplished and talented counties compete on the pitch at Fenway Park.”
expertView
Top coach Bowes casts his eye over Rugby World Cup For the duration of the Rugby World Cup, former Edinburgh and Marlborough player Dennis Bowes, now a highly decorated coach working primarily with Barnhall, will give his thoughts on the key battlegrounds in the competition. It’s nearly here, four years in the waiting. As a teenager back in 1987 I set my alarm clock for 1.30am to wake up and watch France play Scotland in a thrilling 22 all draw in the first ever rugby world cup competing for the now famous William Webb Ellis Cup. And now we are here again for the eighth World Cup and what a fantastic spectacle it will be. This may prove to be the biggest and best so far with 20 teams playing in 13 venues in 48 games and, at 6pm on October 31, we will have our winner. Will we have a new name on the Webb Ellis? Or will the mighty All Blacks retain it This Friday, we get off to a flying start with the host nation and former winners playing the flying Fijian. Being a total romantic, I would love to see the upset of upset here and I do think this could prove to be one of the games of the tournament. This, I feel, could be a fascinating encounter with real physicality, pace and flare coming from the south sea islanders they are a real threat with ball in hand and if their set piece can hold they could do well here. One of the main areas to keep an eye on will be around the match officials and theriedecision making and the speed of the those decisions; how many times will we go to the TMO for simple decisions that could be made without the arm chair viewer losing the will to live; and how many reset scrums and penalty tries will we see? On the home front, a strong Ireland team go into battle on Saturday against a tough Canadian team. I see them coming through this in the last 20 minutes by 20+ points and building nicely into there pool, let’s hope injury free ,as their depth will count later in the group against French team that are very dangerous and unpredictable come World Cup time.
Gazette
30 DUNDRUM gazette 17 September 2015
SPORT
FastSport
rugby: ballinteer old boys carry momentum into new season
Swords Broad-side ends Rovers’ fine LSL start BROADFORD Rovers fell to their first defeat of the fledgling LSL Sunday Senior 1 season last weekend as they were undone 1-0 by Swords Celtic at Balheary. The result leaves the side in third place in the division after five rounds of matches with two wins and two draws to their name thus far. The Saturday Senior 1 side, however, were victors by the same scoreline when Sean Flood grabbed the winning goal against Portmarnock. The win came in spite of being reduced to 10 players following a sending off early in the second half. The win adds to their opening day 2-1 win at Killester United to get their season up and running in fine fashion. In the embryonic league table on goal difference, they only trail local rivals Dundrum at this stage, the Meadowbrook club having run up wins over St Francis and Portmarnock though they did lose their other game against Killester. At underage level, Broadford’s youngsters recorded three wins. The Under-11s won 7-0 in Knocklyon while the Under-10s went one better in an 8-0 result against Firhouse Carmel. In Marlay Park, the club’s Under-15 team were 3-2 winners over Phoenix.
Glenmore and Wayside set for big rematch GLENMORE Dundrum will join together for a special match this weekend in Jackson Park when they take on Wayside Celtic at 4pm in order to raise funds for the Harold’s Cross Hospice. The once great Glenmore closed the door on adult football in the past year
after a decorated existence. Former players are coming together for the event which is specifically to raise funds for two boys close to the club who need operations in the United States to walk again. The event is open for people to support and potentially meet up with some old friends. For more information, contact Willie Simpson on willsim16@hotmail. com.
Old Wesley’s Josh Hinde was among the tries
Wesley start 1B in style
UBL Division 1b
UL Bohemians Old Wesley sport@dublingazette.com
5 33
THE newly promoted Old Wesley opened their Ulster Bank League 1B campaign with an impressive bonus point victory over UL Bohemian by 33-5 in Thomond Park on Saturday. Both sides began briskly, on a largely fine day, played on a excellent sod with the home side unfortunately losing their out-half Robbie Burke with a facial injury in the first play of the game. As Wesley were coming to terms with the
increased pace at this level, they were overturned close to half way in the sixth minute and Bohs countered quickly with an astute kick to the right corner, which was pounced on over the line by speedy centre Darren Moroney and replacement number 10 Rick McKenna struck an upright with the difficult conversion. This was an early wake up call for Wesley and, ironically, seemed to accelerate their settling in process with their pack getting on top in the tight. It did not take long for Barry McLaughlin
crest of a wave UCD ease past Cork in WNL shield contest UCD Waves picked up their first victory
of the new WNL shield season over Cork City, despite playing just over half of the game with 10 players. Last season’s WNL top scorer Aine O’Gorman gave UCD the lead after 10 minutes over Cork City WFC in Jackson Park before Karen Duggan added a second. Susan Hackett received her marching orders but O’Gorman and Julie Ann Russell added further goals to make it 4-0 for the side managed by Eileen Gleeson.
to land two out of three penalty attempts by the 17th minute to take a lead they would never lose. Ten minutes later, Craig Telford was credited with the visitors first try following an excellent lineout drive and, just before half time, McLaughlin tagged on another penalty to leave the score 14-5 at the interval. With Bohs desperately trying to get back into the game, Wesley scrum half and captain Ian Cassidy intercepted a pass on half way and sped in under the posts with McLaughlin converting in the 45th minute. This was a fatal blow
for the home side and a confidence booster for Wesley with their backs increasingly making good use of a steady stream of ball from a pack which was now firmly in control. Try number three came from a sweeping back move down the right wing finished off and converted by McLaughlin after 55 minutes. B o h s n e ve r g ave up, missed a few kickable penalties and were twarted on a number of occasions inside the visitors 22 by some excellent defending. However Wesley lifted the siege and, with five
minutes to go, a further period of forward dominance led to the bonus point fourth try scored close in by big number four Josh Hinde who, as always, has a good eye for the try line. Overall an excellent debut in 1B by Wesley which should stand them in good stead for the expected tougher challenges ahead beginning with the visit of Buccaneers to Donnybrook next Saturday. The Connacht side also got off to a winning start with a 21-11 win over Shannon on home turf in Dubarry Park last weekend.
17 September 2015 DUNDRUM gazette 31
Gazette
hurling: two championships titles in quick succession
Club Noticeboard Ballyboden St enda’s CONGRATULATIONS to Ballyboden St
new 2016 Ballyboden St Enda’s cal-
Enda’s junior C and E hurlers on the
endar? If you have any pictures from
hurlers on their championship wins
throughout the year of good quality
over Whitehall Colmcilles and Ballint-
send them on to sineadryanmedia@
eer St John’s.
gmail.com.
Congratulations to the senior B hurlers on their win to reach the championship final against Naomh
There was no winner of this week’s
Fionnbarra with a scoreline of 3-14
lotto. The numbers drawn were 6, 2,
to 2-15.
5 and 17.
Congratulations to our U-15C foot-
Match three winners were Shane
ballers on their superb win over Na
Herary, Knocklyon; Fred Johnson,
Fianna with a scoreline of 7-12 to 4-11
Dublin 15; Fiona Larkin, Annacarthy
Would you like to be part of our
Ballyboden St Enda’s junior C hurlers celebrate their championship success
Perfect weekend for Boden’s hurling crew
jChc final Ballyboden St Enda’s 3-12 Whitehall Colmcilles 0-11 sport@dublingazette.com
BALLYBODEN’S junior hurlers claimed not one but two county championship titles in what was a weekend to remember for the Firhouse Road side. On Sunday morning, Ballyboden’s junior C championship side, led by the Doyle duo of David and Gerry, Mick Keville and Seamus Vaughan faced up against Whitehall Colmcilles in O’Toole Park. Boden started quickly and opened with a goal and a point from Cian Hiney and David Garry. Cathal Ryan then responded with a free for Whitehall before Gavin Duff seized on a blocked effort to fire over Boden’s second point. Garry and Ryan then exchanged points to leave the score at 1-3 to 0-2 before Morgan Ryan fire in Boden’s second goal after a well worked move. Garry then bagged his third point after Hiney
was fouled but Whitehall then hit back with three of their own to creep back into contention. Back came Boden though as Brian Cummins introduced himself on the scoreboard with a well-taken point and it was the boys in blue who finished the half on top, with Ronan Dooley and Garry adding points to leave the half-time score at 2-7 to 0-7. Hiney didn’t take long to score his second goal once play resumed. David Keville was beginning to take the game by the scruff of the neck. Garry was key too as he kept the points flowing and as the game crept
into the final 10 minutes all Boden had to do was contain the Northsiders. They did exactly that too and went on to claim a 3-12 to 1-11 win. Later on in the afternoon, it was the turn of Boden’s E championship side to make it a doubly sweet day as they took on Ballinteer St John’s in their county final in O’Toole Park. Boden again got off to a flyer with early points from Stephen Cullen, David Sweeney and Johnny Kenny. Ballinteer initially fought back with a couple of points of their own before Sweeney stuck the opening goal on 15 minutes.
One of the biggest moments of the first half came at the other end however when Boden’s keeper Brian Kelleher produced a magnificent save to keep the game at 1-7 to 0-06 at the break. Ballinteer hit the first point of the second half but Boden responded brilliantly moments later when they were awarded a free 30m out. The majority of the crowd expected Scully to strike over the bar but he spotted a gap and rifled it into the net. Further points sent Boden nine clear and despite a late surge from Ballinteer, including a goal, it was to be prove to be Boden’s day.
and Charlie Dowling, Rathfarnham.
naomh olaf MIXED fortunes this weekend for
back. It’s still not too late to try out the
our minor footballers. In the minor B
academy.
championship, Naomh Olaf defeated St
Boys born in 2008, 2009 and 2010;
Anne’s 1-13 to 0-7. In the D champion-
come along on Saturdays from 10am
ship, Group 2, Naomh Olaf lost out to
to 11.30am. Girls born in 2008, 2009
O’Dwyers 3-9 to 2-15 .
and 2010 are welcome on Sunday from
The U-13 girls were back in champi-
11.15am to 12.15pm. For boys and girls
onship action after the summer break.
born in 2011 and 2012, we are starting
The panel had two championship wins
a pre-academy group which will run
in the last week. The camogie team had
side by side with the academy on a
a good win away at Good Counsel last
trial basis. If your child is interested,
Sunday on a score of 3-7 to 0-3.
please bring them along at 10am on
On Saturday the football team put in a great second half performance, coming from behind to beat Skerries by 12 points.
Saturdays for boys or at 11.15 am on Sundays for girls. For this new group, you as a parent must be a part of this initiative and will
Date for your diary: Saturday, Octo-
need to partake with your child. This
ber 3 - Barn Dance organised by the
is a fun introduction to Gaelic games
senior ladies football team. It starts
and the emphasis is on the kids having
at 8pm in the clubhouse. Tickets are
a fun time. If you need more informa-
€15 and available from the bar or any
tion on the academy, please contact
of the team.
our games promotion officer Darren
The Johnny Cash tribute band, Walk
at 087 7085913.
the Line, will be playing and the night
Dublin Ladies Gaelic Football held
will be finishing off with a DJ till late.
their juvenile presentations for their
Food available. Prizes on the night for
U-14 and U-16 teams in Naomh Olaf GAA
the best dressed country and western
Club on Friday night last.
couple!
Over 60 girls received their medals
Naomh Olaf’s academy is back in full
including Naomh Olaf’s Nia Kennedy
swing and a big welcome to all our new
and Dublin U-16 captain Clara
members. Great to see all our players
O’Sullivan.
wanderers THERE was no lotto winner. Numbers
Mondays at 7.30pm in Frank Kelly Park.
drawn were 10, 20 and 35; €25 to Lor-
All newbies welcome. Contact Louise
can, Emer, Conall Molloy, David Kelly,
O’Loughlin on 086 8333587.
Mark Molloy and Aaron Gracey. The jackpot next week is €600.
Juvenile football and hurling continues for boys and girls aged seven to
See the club website and Facebook
12 with midweek training and matches
for details of our major fundraiser in
on Saturday morning and nursery
November.
training for boys and girls aged four
Training continues on Tuesdays and
to seven on Saturdays at 11am.
Thursdays at 7.30pm. All new play-
Girls’ football training for ages nine
ers welcome. Contact Stephen on 086
to 13 will take place each Saturday
0489379. Check the website and Face-
at Rockbrook Park School on the all
book/Twitter for fixture updates.
weather pitch at 12 noon.
Ladies footballers are training on The Ballyboden St Enda’s junior E hurlers
Deadline for the photos is Friday, October 16.
All levels welcome.
32 dundrum gazette 17 September 2015