Dundrum

Dundrum GAZET TE FREE

February 21, 2013 Find us on

Month XX, 2012 • STILLORGAN DUNDRUM • CHURCHTOWN • NUTGROVE • RATHFARNHAM • BALLINTEER • SANDYFORD • LEOPARDSTOWN • TERENURE

INSIDE: Make your child’s communion or confirmation day extra special See P18

Stars:

Fourth annual Gazette Sports Awards preview Page 28

Football:

MacAuley helps Leinster into Inter-pro final Page 31

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES......................6 DUBLIN LIFE...................11 OUT&ABOUT ..................17 CLASSIFIEDS ................26 SPORT ...........................27

RATES ISSUE: TDs, senators called upon to pay commercial fees on offices Page 2

Garda station to close in March  BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN

MARCH 14 has been confirmed as the day Stepaside Garda Station will close for good.

On February 18, a memo sent to the station by Superintendant John Hand stated that the station will close on that date, and that staff be duly notified.

Deputy Shane Ross (Ind) said: “We will not take this lying down, and will

do all that is possible to resist the closure. I’m meeting Minister [for Justice] Alan Shatter on Friday to hand him our petition of 3,000 signatures against the closure.”

Minister Shatter’s office said: “The closure of any particular Garda station will not affect the procedure for the Garda response to emergency calls, which will continue as it is at present in the Dublin Metropolitan Region.”

Health and happiness: Launching a book on exercise at The Gym JOE Bourke was delighted to

congratulate fitness expert Dave Hegarty on the launch of his new book, Dynamic Health, in Rathgar recently. The book launch was part of the launch of the website for The Gym, located at Orwell Road,

which saw Dave give a talk and insight into the health and fitness business, drawing upon 50 years in the business. The book launch was a great way to help highlight facilities and exercise programmes at The Gym.

2 DUNDRUM Gazette 21 February 2013

dublin GAZETTe newspapers i n f o r m at i o n

council Action sought on funding issue

Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 - 6010240 Dublin Gazette Newspapers publish eight weekly quality free titles, covering the greater Dublin area from Swords to Dun Laoghaire

c o n ta c t s Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Acting News Editor: Rob Heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile jmaile@gazettegroup.com Picture Editor: Paul Hosford picturedesk@gazettegroup.com Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Suzanne Sheehy ssheehy@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 - 6010240 sales@gazettegroup.com

Find us on

www.gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

County manager Owen Keegan told Dun Laoghaire Rathdown county councillors that the council did not have the power to change the exemption on TDs and senators in the area from paying commercial rates on their offices

TDs, senators called to pay commercial rates TDS and senators who have constituency offices in the county are exempt from paying commercial rates on the properties they occupy, it was revealed at a recent Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council meeting.

Councillor Victor Boyhan (Ind) asked the manager if there was a rates exemption for TDs’ and senators’ offices in the county, saying: “Are they all exempt? There are hard-pressed shops, such as the National Council of the Blind, who are paying rates.

“This [issue of rates exemption] came up at Ennis town council meeting, and I’d like the manager to clarify it.”

 Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

Answering Cllr Boyhan’s initial question, Helena Cunningham, financial director, said: “Constituency offices are exempt from commercial rates because there must be commercial activity [on the premises] for it to be rateable.”

County manager Owen Keegan pointed out to the chamber that the council did not have the power to change this exemption.

Councillors agreed to

look at the matter again next month and frame a motion calling for the council to write to the Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan, to remove any rate exemption for deputies, ministers and senators’ constituency offices in the county.

Cllr John Bailey (FG) said: “These elected officials have a moral obligation and a responsibility to make an equivalent [to the commercial rate] donation, because they’re paid well enough.”

In a separate motion, Cllr Tom Murphy (FF) called for a reduction in commercial rates for start-up companies. He asked members to support his call to “write to

the Minister for Finance, [Michael Noonan] asking him to consider reducing the rates for start-up companies for their first year in business”.

However, Cunningham told councillors that there was currently only one commercial rate by law, and to reduce it would also reduce the council’s income and detrimentally affect services as a result.

Cllr Murphy responded, saying: “DLR rates are the most expensive in Dublin. Fingal [rates] are 15% below them. We have to be competitive now.

“When I look at Sandyford Business Park, I feel it’s sad to see all the

empty buildings there.

We should be encouraging new business and helping them to get off the ground.”

The DLR budget for 2013 factored in a reduction of the commercial rates in the county by 2%, and now stands at 0.166 of the value of the property in question, compared to 0.162 in Dublin South and 0.144 in Fingal County.

Cllr Melisa Halpin (PBP) said a letter to the minister [Hogan] was already being framed, following a motion passed at the last council meeting calling for a differential rate of tax to be introduced in the county, with start-ups factored into it.

Dublin Bus services restored in Ballybrack area Full service has resumed to thousands of Dublin Bus commuters in the Ballybrack area following a week-long restriction to the Number 7 and 45a routes over anti-social behaviour.

On February 7, Dublin Bus

announced that they were stopping the buses on both routes from going into the Ballybrack area after 8.20pm until the area was deemed safe.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Dublin Bus, said: “Full service was restored on Friday

[February 15] following a meeting with community groups, the gardai and local representatives.

“It was agreed on Tuesday that rubble and stones which were lying around the area would have to be removed so that the

full bus service could be restored on Friday. This was one of the main issues to be resolved.

“We have a very good relationship with community groups there and always like to get things sorted out as quickly as possible.”

21 February 2013 DUNDRUM Gazette 3

council: worries over cut in services

gardai

Debate over €700,000 cost of new councillors

Call for a brief for Callinan

A heated debate took place at a meeting of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council last week when it was revealed that the addition of 12 new councillors to the elected representation in the area may cost the council in the region of €700,000 a year.

The 12 extra councillors are due to be assigned to DLRCC before the 2014 elections as part of Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan’s local government reforms.

Councillor Gerry Horkan (FF) said that each new member would cost the council about €27,751 in direct costs each plus extra support costs of €27,920 which brings the total addition-

al cost up to €668,052 for the first year. Horkan asked the manager if this expense would necessitate cuts in services in the county.

Kathleen Holohan, deputy county manager and director of corporate services and human resources said: “The Putting People First document [Government proposal on Local Government Reform] mentioned a possible reduction in members’ allowances, so that could be a possible saving to the council. We are not in a position to give a reasonable estimate of what it will all cost, [or] what services may be cut.”

She went on to say that the chamber meeting room, housed in the protected structure of County Hall, could not cope

with more councillors as it is only fit for a total of 50 members including officials: “The architect’s department is working on chamber options as at present it is not equipped for 40 councillors.”

Cllr Richard Humphreys of Labour welcomed the coming of more councillors to DLRCC: “Dublin has been discriminated against for years. In Leitrim there are eight times more councillors per head than in Dublin. The government is rebalancing things with an overall reduction [42%] of councillors in the country.”

However, Cllr Horkan said: “This increase in councillors from 130 to 183 in Dublin devalues the position of councillors.”

Sweet spot: McGrath rolls up his sleeves for Bake for Brain Injury campaign soccer legend and Acquired Brain Injury Ireland ambassador Paul McGrath is rolling up his sleeves and Baking for Brain Injury with TV3 ladies Sinead Desmond and Catherine Leyden – raising much needed funds for the charitable organisation. Pictured are Holly Taylor (6) from Cabinteely, Paul McGrath and James O’Connell (6) from Killiney. The Bake for Brain Injury campaign is an annual fundraiser developed by Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, in an effort to raise much needed funds for those living with an acquired brain injury. Bake for Brain Injury takes place from March 11-17 and encourages all those who can to bake and donate online at www.bakeforbraininjury.ie

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown county councillors have agreed to write to the Garda Commissioner, Martin Callinan, asking him to come to DLR to meet with councillors and the development section of the planning department to brief him on proposed development in the county ahead of the planned closure of two garda stations in Stepaside and Kill O’The Grange.

Councillor Lettie Mc Carthy’s (Lab) said: “I can only assume the Commissioners Office was not fully briefed with the full facts in relation to planned and future development for the area served by Stepaside which will ultimately see a population increase of thousands of residents.”

4 DUNDRUM Gazette 21 February 2013

council Calls for motion to look into why so few funds have been claimed

Only €396k claimed in flood damages out of €40m pool  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

People who experienced flood damage as a result of extreme weather in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown in 2012 have claimed only €396,000 from an overall national compensatory pool of €40 million from the Office of Public Works (OPW), it emerged at a

council meeting.

A motion to discover why so little of these available funds had been claimed was put forward by Cllr John Bailey (FG).

He said that there were at least 70 flooding hotspots in the county and, of these, only three areas had claimed for compensation.

He added that there were

still 15 claims outstanding, and asked the manager if these would be paid by the council’s own insurance and, if so, how would it affect insurance in the future.

In response, Frank Austin, director of transportation and water services, said: “The council has only been successful in one [OPW] claim so far, and is

appealing the other.

“The rules that apply to claim this compensation are very specific – that’s why so little has been claimed.

“If we are unsuccessful in our applications, we can carry out the work ourselves.

“Fifteen households have claimed compensation from the council for flooding and

our insurance will cover it.”

Cllr Barry Ward (FG) asked if those in the houses in the Trimlestown scheme which were flooded last October have applied for the OPW funding.

Austin answered that the Trimlestown Stream was in private ownership, so had nothing to do with the council.

Cllr Jim O’Dea (FG) asked if

those in areas around the Slang and Dodder Rivers could apply for OPW compensation.

Austin said: “CFRAM, the catchment flood risk assessment and management [study], is a study that covers the Slang and Dodder as well as all national rivers, so they will automatically be assessed by the OPW.”

Enterprisenews

FastNews Artists invited to apply for art grant share

Hi-Start Programme Get your Business Investor Ready How can Hi-Start progress my business in 2013?

THE Hi-Start Management Development Programme assists ambitious early stage growth focused companies to identify and build the foundations required to secure investment and scale the business in international markets.

Hi-Start has been developed and part-funded by the Dublin & Wicklow Enterprise Boards and Enterprise Ireland.

Now in its 6th year and with a new focus on investor readiness the programme will run from April to November 2013 in Dublin.

What is involved?

The six half day workshops are designed to each contribute a key component to the development of the investor ready business plan.

A related mentoring session will follow each training module to assist the participant with the specific outcomes required.

The programme will be delivered by the highly acclaimed world-class business development consultant John McMahon, Forum 21 Ltd.

Am I eligible?

Participation is limited to 10 companies. Applicants must meet the criteria below: • Have established customer need and demand for the products/service • Demonstrate the potential to scale business to the international market • Be established no more than 18 months • Based in Dublin or Wicklow region

How to apply?

Participation Fee €500 (includes all training and mentoring costs). To apply, contact angela@dlrceb. ie. Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Enterprise Board (01) 4948400.

The Dundrum Gazette is one of just two regional newspapers that, under the instruction of Minister Alan Shatter, the Justice Department now seeks news clippings about, concerning coverage of Minister Shatter

media: minister follows this paper’s coverage

Gazette added to Shatter’s clippings  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

UNDER the direction of Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence Alan Shatter, the Justice Department has issued a tender for companies to provide newspaper clippings in which he is mentioned.

Unlike the majority of his colleagues at Cabinet, the clippings will include not only national papers, but also two local papers – including The Dundrum Gazette.

The decision to include the regional publications comes on the heels of

recent coverage by The Dundrum Gazette of the protests against the closure of Stepaside Garda Station.

The Dundrum area is Minister Shatter’s own constituency, and despite fierce local reaction against the Stepaside Garda Station closure, it was announced this week that the closure would go ahead, effective from March 14.

The tender for the press coverage of Minister Shatter includes eight national newspapers, six Sunday publications, and two regionals.

The Department of Jus-

tice said the tender referenced only two regional papers “to save money”.

A statement from the Department of Justice said: “In the interest of economy, the department decided not to include all regional publications in the tender, but instead included a provision that, aside from the specified regional publications, certain regional publications might be required from time to time.”

A spokesperson for the Minister’s office said that Minister Shatter is very interested in the opinion of those in his own constituency, and that the

inclusion of two regional papers specifically covering the area was very important to him.

The Dundrum Gazette currently has a circulation of 8,500 in the greater Dundrum area.

In a statement, The Department of Justice and Equality confirmed that a request for a tender for a press cutting service has been placed on the etenders.gov.ie website.

“The criteria utilised for determining the scope of this service broadly replicated the criteria utilised in the last tender request issued by the Department in 2010.”

DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council arts grants are still available for any artist based in the county, and the council is calling on local artists to make their applications before the closing date at the end of this month.

As well as individual practitioners, groups and ensembles can also apply for the funding.

The closing date for applications is Wednesday, February 27 at 12pm. For further information, see www. dlrcoco.ie/arts/Arts_ Grant_Guidelines_2013. pdf.

Social housing letters on way DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is writing to approximately 3,600 households with a Housing Needs Assessment application form.

All those in the county who have applied for social housing will have to fill in a new form, which must be returned to the council by Friday, March 8.

Anyone who is currently on the DLR housing list will receive a form in the post and must send it back to the council’s Housing and Community Department, or complete it online at www.dlrcoco. ie/hna.

21 February 2013 DUNDRUM Gazette 5

6 DUNDRUM Gazette 21 February 2013

gazetteGALLERIES

Lara Gallagher, Nicki Lee, Emma Pearson and Loughlin Kiss

Happy to be heading back to warm, dry clothes

schools: foul weather didn’t dampen spirits

Lashing it to get to the end of a walk T

HE words “soaked to the bone” weren’t far from most people’s minds during a recent wind- and rain-lashed fundraising walk and run at Shanganagh Park, where Transition Year students from St Andrew’s College were doing their best to support a project in Uganda.

Proving more waterproof and reslient to the

rain than The Gazette’s camera (and photographer), the students kept up their good mood all the way to the finish line, where they were able to head off to warm clothes and hot drinks, happy with the knowledge that they were helping to make a very real difference to the lives of citizens of Rubiriizi village, in Uganda.

Andrew and Diago were typical of the students’ determination to complete a walk and run at Shanganagh Park, despite the dreadful weather. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

21 February 2013 DUNDRUM Gazette 7

Have you seen yourself in the Gazette? Buy photos online from only â‚Ź6.99 at www.gazettephotos.com

Ross Nichols, Andrew McNamara, Julian Power Foley, Cian Guilfoyle, Rowan Eagan and Mark Fitzgerald

Wendy Eadie, Oliver Eagleton, Tom Byrne, Serena Brooks and Jamie Kate Mc Donald

Thomas

Victoria Byrne and Holly Ryan

Ella Woolfson

8 DUNDRUM Gazette 21 February 2013

support 150 people from National Rehabilitation Hospital avail of service

Spinal Injuries Ireland need volunteer drivers  bairbre ni Bhraonain

Spinal Injuries Ireland (SII) is in need of volunteer drivers to help with the organisation’s social activities programme in the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown area.

Last year, SII took 150 peo-

ple with spinal cord injuries from the National Rehabilitation Hospital on a variety of trips, including visits to Dundrum shopping centre, to the cinema, on boat trips around Dalkey Island and up the Liffey, kayaking in Blessington and out to the Aviva Stadium

and Croke Park for soccer and rugby matches.

Most outings take place in the evening or at weekends and a rota system is in place.

JenniferWright, SII activities facilitator, said: “The patients gain so much from our social and activities programme. They

get a break from the hospital setting and, at the same time, an opportunity to discover life with their injury outside of the hospital, with plenty of support to draw on if they need it.

“The outings are therapeutic on so many levels – not least because of the craic that is had

with patients and volunteers.

There is a real difference in the mood of the patients when they return.”

Volunteer drivers must hold a D1-licence, and all other relevant training, such as clamping down wheelchairs and gaining an understanding of

10 queue: Ready for night run

FastNews

A Nutgrove treat NUTGROVE Shopping Centre recently had a special guest to entertain shoppers when Mickey Harte stopped by to play a few tunes on stage at the centre’s food court.

Mickey was promoting a charity – Variety for Children – which aids sick and disabled children in the community.

Supporters bought golden hearts for €3 in support of the cause on the day. The next charity event will be on Saturday, February 23, in Nutgrove with the Victory Gospel Group performing from 12 noon to 1pm.

Open Days at Rosemont ROSEMONT School is holding two open days for potential students on Sunday, February 24 and Thursday, March 7.

The school will show parents and students their range of educational resources at its newly-built modern campus.

The main aim of the open day is to allow parents and teachers to focus on the students’ secondary education, and get a glimpse of how Rosemont’s goalsetting programme and emphasis on personal ownership can ensure academic success.

Interested parents and students can register to attend an open day at www.rosemont. ie/open-days.php.

spinal cord injury, will be provided.

If you are interested in volunteering as a bus driver, or as a general volunteer to accompany these patients, contact Jennifer Wright at 01 235 5317 or email her at Jennifer@spinalinjuries.ie.

PREPARING for a little night running at the launch of an upcoming event were Irish sprinter Ailis McSweeney, Dublin GAA captain Bryan Cullen and the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Naoise U Muiri, who were all happy to put their best foot forward to promote the upcoming Samsung Run Dublin at Night 10K Event.

An estimated 10,000 runners are expected to take to the capital’s streets at 9pm on Sunday, April 28, for a great run through the city.

transport: plan could promote cycling for residents and visitors

Feasibility tests may see DLR get its own bike rental scheme  bairbre ni Bhraonain

A SIMILAR project to the Dublin Bike rental scheme could be a possibility for Dun LaoghaireRathdown (DLR) after Minister of State at the Department of Transport Alan Kelly announced the allocation of National Transport Authority (NTA) funds to run feasibility tests in the region for such a scheme.

The inclusion of DLR in the bike scheme comes under the NTA’s new programme for sustainable energy measures to encourage greener trans-

port alternatives, entitled the Smarter Travel Project.

The NTA has already allocated €2.6 million for the expansion of the Dublin Bike Scheme, to include areas from Heuston Station to the Docklands.

The initial stage of the process in establishing the scheme in DLR is a feasibility study to examine and gauge the response and needs of local people.

Minister Kelly has allocated €30,000 for feasibility studies into the provision of the bike hire

scheme for DLR, and the process will be carried out in collaboration with Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC).

T he original bike scheme has been operating in Dublin since 2009, and is regarded as among the most successful bike-sharing schemes in the world. The capital is cited in case studies where other cities consider establishing their own schemes.

This extension of bike hire schemes for the Greater Dublin Area is being administered by

the NTA in conjunction with local authorities, and the entire sustainable measures programme will involve a €43 million investment by the Government into sustainable transport infrastructures, such as cycleways for the participant council areas.

Reacting to the announcement, Cllr Niamh Bhreathnach (Lab) said: “I was delighted when Minister Kelly announced the funding and mentioned Dun Laoghaire. This money will have to be spent in the next year, or in phases

over the three years.

“We need to have the bikes at Dart stations so that when visitors come to the area, they can just pick one up and off they go.

“The Booterstown station to UCD cycle lane, which is planned by the council, will certainly go ahead now and also be of great benefit to the bike scheme, but we need even more cycle lanes in the county.”

Commenting on the bike scheme and its extension, Minister of State for Primary Care Alex White said: “As an avid cyclist

myself, I believe its success is a further demonstration of how cycling has really taken off in recent times, and it illustrates people’s growing awareness of their own health and wellbeing.”

However, DLRCC said the plans are only at the feasibility stage.

A spokesperson said: “As part of the Sustainable Transport Measures programme 2013, funding has been allocated by the NTA to carry out a feasibility study into the provision of a public bike hire scheme for Dun Laoghaire town.”

21 February 2013 DUNDRUM Gazette 9

music River to Sea inspired to continue

Folk singer’s EP for charity  bairbre ni Bhraonain

A LOCAL Montessori teacher, Caroline Hosey from Dundr um, has recorded an EP that will benefit DEBRA Ireland.

Caroline is part of a musical collective, entitled River to Sea, and their eponymous EP was produced by renowned traditional musician, Francie Conway.

It features four folk and traditional Irish songs, one written by Francie, one by a Listowel man, and the other two are classic Irish songs.

The charity is dedicated to funding treatment for Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) – a painful, genetic skin condition that causes the skin layers and internal body linings to separate and blister at the slightest touch.

Caroline spoke to The Gazette about how she got involved in the charity.

“I’d known Jimmy Fearon for a long time

– he’s the chief executive of DEBRA Ireland. I got talking to him about doing an EP, and asked him would he like to get involved and all the proceeds would go to the charity.

“So, he agreed and in July I got the ball rolling and went into the studio.”

Caroline was uncertain if the group would continue at one point when tragedy struck last year.

“The group was set up around a year ago. Unfortunately, the founder, Louis O’Carroll, who was a psychiatrist from Listowel, died tragically in March, and it was thought that the group would die too.

“Then the rest of us who were in the group went down to Listowel to perform in a concert to commemorate him, and we decided to continue on with River To Sea after that.”

Caroline runs a suc-

c e s s f u l Mo n t e s s o r i school in Marlay Grange in Dundrum but, before that, had a very different profession.

“I worked in KBC Bank for 10 years and when I had my own children I did my Montessori training in the evenings.

Then I set up my own Montessori school when I qualified in 2002.”

She is also passionate about music, and would like nothing better than to do some promotional gigs for the EP if the interest is strong enough.

“I don’t know what will happen after this E,P because the other members include The Merry Ploughboys and Francie Conway and they all have a number of projects they are involved in.

“Francie recently did [The Gathering] Song For Ireland, which he gave to An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, and this too was done under the banner of River to Sea.” The River to Sea EP

FastNews Beaufield Mews restaurant opens its Loft Brasserie THERE was a new addition to the Beaufield Mews restaurant in Stillorgan last week with the opening of its Loft Brasserie.

The new eaterie is located upstairs in Beaufield Mews, and is a cosy retreat with wooden beams, original stonework and an open fire.

The Loft Brasserie is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 6pm until late. For further information, see www.beaufieldmews.com.

Festival celebrates flags

Caroline Hosey, from Dundrum, is part of a collective, River to Sea, whose EP supports DEBRA Ireland – a charity that funds treatment for Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) – a painful, genetic skin condition

is currently available in Claddagh Record shops in Temple Bar and Abbey Street, and Celtic Note on Nassau Street.

It can also be downloaded from iTunes and other online retailers.

The EP will also be available to buy online soon, priced €5.

BRATACHA 2013, the Festival of Flags and Emblems, is coming to Dun Laoghaire in May, providing a fascinating insight into the heritage and role of flags and emblems in societies.

The festival, which is an international symposium on the history, heritage, culture and identities associated with flags and emblems, will feature public lectures and seminars, exhibitions, heritage-related stands and booths, and a community parade.

There will be an official festival flag, which has been crafted in cloth by Dublin flag-makers, O’Regan’s of Pearse Street, which will be raised at the opening ceremony for Bratacha 2013 at the unveiling of an herbaceous display entitled Europe In Bloom in Cabinteely Park on Thursday, May 9.

10 DUNDRUM Gazette 21 February 2013

gazetteGALLERY

Have you seen yourself in the Gazette? Buy photos online from only €6.99 at www.gazettephotos.com

Cathy O’Connor

Dave O’Sullivan and Nick Munier were delighted to attend the fundraising evening at Cafe en Seine in aid of the ISPCC

Fundraising party was the place to be Seine ...

A

HOST of sparkling Irish stars and celebrities set forth for a glittering night out at Cafe en Seine in the city centre recently, where the Dawson Street venue was playing host to a fundraising evening in aid of the ISPCC.

Also staged to celebrate Calum Best’s birthday, the terrific night of entertainment saw many well-known faces in attendance, keen to help support the charity’s work with children, as well as the chance to enjoy some

Greg French and Sharon Stacy Hennessy

craic with a plethora of top talents, including comics Katherine Lynch, Joe Rooney and Dave Young, while music fans spotted the likes of Brian Kennedy, Rick Savage and boyband Level 5, to name but a few.

Lisa Murphy and Jo Jordan

Dylan McGrath and Alison Canavan, Brian Kennedy and Bernie Cafolla

Virginia Macari

Claire O’Connor and Sinead Brennan

21 February 2013 Gazette 11

schools P14

dublinlife

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools

archives: consult a professional genealogist

Research your family tree for free at the National Archives The National Archives of Ireland (NAI) is providing a free family history service to visitors to the archives in Bishop Street.

Members of the public can consult a professional genealogist about sources relating to their family history free of charge. The archives house every historical record of the modern Irish state.

The Gazette spoke to head of reader services in the NAI, Aideen Ireland, about the free service and how the pub-

lic has been responding to it.

“The free public service has been running since 2003 where people can come in and speak to a genealogist for half an hour or more about their family history.

“It’s been very popular but since the downturn in the economy there has been a drop off in numbers.

“We used to offer a full day’s service but can’t any longer. Now we offer the service from Monday to Friday from 10am to 1.30pm

and we will continue to provide it for as long as we can afford to. I urge people coming in to bring as much of their own material as they can into the experts to quicken the process.

“When people come in they first have to apply for a reader’s ticket. They then talk to one of our genealogists who may then steer them to our document room where they can order what they need for further research.

They may also be advised to

look at our microfilm or be given links to other institutions.

“People can also come back to see the same genealogist or a different one to continue their family research, and we encourage them to do this again and again.”

If you are interested in discovering more about your lineage, go to the fifth floor of the National Archives, at the back of the Reading Room.

Visitors are dealt with on a first-come, first-served basis.

The National Archives of Ireland

asdfsdaf business P27 P16



Gazette

diary P12

12 Gazette 21 February 2013

Gazette

dublinlife

competition, to search for Ireland’s best dancers

Show off your dance skills with Funtasia contest DANCE fever is sweeping across Dublin this week, as Funtasia begins the search for Ireland’s best dancers.

Taking inspiration from the hit TV show, Got2Dance is open to all ages and styles of dance and will be held at Bettystown, Co Meath on Sunday, February 24, March 3 and March 10.

“We’re looking for Ireland’s best dancers,” said Andree McCarthy of Funtasia. “We’ve arranged a superb line-up of guest judges who are renowned in the world of dance, including Aidean Byrne, a hip-hop dancer with Raw Edge Crew, and Tobi Omoteso, whose hip-hop routines have earned him international acclaim both featured on Sky TV’s Got2Dance. We are also thrilled to welcome Belinda Murphy, a chore-

ographer and dancer with Riverdance.”

For more information, visit www.funtasia.ie.

Join oxfam’s together on women’s day OXFAM is calling Dubliners to join hundreds of people all over Ireland by hosting an Oxfam Get Together for International Women’s Day on March 8, and help raise money to support women living in poverty worldwide.

An Oxfam Get Together can be anything from a coffee morning to a movie night or even a karaoke night. The heart of the idea is to get together with friends, family and colleagues and do something that you love – while fundraising for Oxfam.

Speaking about her recent trip to Tanzania, Oxfam Ireland ambassa-

dor and judge on RTE’s The Voice of Ireland Sharon Corr said that this can change lives in the poorest areas of the world.

“An Oxfam Get Together is simple. Just organise something fun with the people you love spending time with – and help raise vital funds that will transform the lives of women affected by poverty and injustice around the world,” she said.

To download your Oxfam Get Together fundraising pack or to find out more, visit www.oxfamireland.og/gettogether.

scramble to find eggs for jack and jill A GREAT Lily O’Brien sponsored Easter egg hunt is on in Dublin until Easter Saturday, March 23, in aid of the Jack and Jill Foundation.

Over 100 fibreglass eggs will be hidden around Dublin and the hunt is on to find them.

Each egg is 75cm high and has been decorated by well-known artists and celebrities.

To get involved, you have to find 20 of the eggs and collect the code on each one.

You can then enter a draw to win a grand prize of diamonds and other smaller gifts, including chocolate factory visits and a year’s supply of chocolate from Lily O’Brien’s.

At the end of the Big Egg Hunt, the decorated eggs will be auctioned for charity in aid of the Jack and Jill Foundation through an online auction, and there will also be a live auction at the Four Seasons Hotel on Saturday, March 23.

Sell

Your

Dancer Tobi Omoteso will be a guest judge for Funtasia’s Got2Dance dance

diary

Sale advertise your sale with the Gazette...

Call us now on 60 10 240

21 February 2013 Gazette 13

Seachtain na Gaeilge set to return

campaign: 5km event in aid of UNICEF Ireland

Race to cut children’s mortality rate to zero A 5km race is being held on March 2 in St Clare’s Sports Grounds in Glasnevin in aid of UNICEF Ireland, and has been organised by a group of seven students who are studying for a MSc in marketing in DCU. The students are hoping to raise €4,000 for UNICEF Ireland as part of the international organisation’s Believe In Zero campaign.

“Every day, 19,000 children die from causes we can prevent, like malaria, malnutrition and exposure. UNICEF believes that number should be

zero,” their spokesperson said.

“Over the last 50 years, UNICEF and its partners have helped reduce the worldwide child mortality rate by more than half.

Five years ago, 25,500 children died every day from preventable causes.

Much of that success is recent—the result of tried and true lifesaving interventions and programmes perfected in more than 150 countries.

“No other humanitarian organisation saves more children’s lives than UNICEF. By joining the Race To Zero on March

2, you can help UNICEF work to toward the day when zero children die from preventable causes.”

Caroline Keyes, spokesperson for the group at DCU, said: “We feel this event is a great way to get fit and have fun whilst suppor ting children around the world who need help.

“The money raised will go towards the charity’s Believe in Zero campaign.”

The race is open to everyone to run, jog or walk.

Race start time is 11am with registration (picking

up race numbers) beginning10am. Entry fee is €20 for adults and €10 for students. For more information about the event, log on to Facebook at www.facebook.com/ UnicefirelandRaceToZero, or register directly on www.unicef.ie.

If you have any queries about the Glasnevin event or would like more information, email Caroline at unicef5km@gmail. com or call on 086 158 8433.

For more information log on to www.unicef.ie/ GetInvolved/5km-Raceto-Zero--35-93.aspx

Gazette

feature

The race takes place on March 2 in Glasnevin

Early next month sees the return of Seachtain na Gaeilge which will this year be packed with Gathering events as well as Bliain na Gaeilge.

Organisers have a host of treats as gaeilge lined up with a special calendar of Irish-language events happening locally and nationally from March 4 to 17. It is hoped that the use of Irish will spread across the world throughout 2013.

Seachtain na Gaeilge 2013 will mark Bliain na Gaeilge as its biggest festival and will be celebrating 120 years of the revival of the Irish language.

All events can be accessed via the website at www.snag.ie.

dublinlife

schoolLife

Get involved with our new Gazette schools pages As part of the relaunch of the Dublin Gazette Newspapers, we are reaching out to all the schools in our catchment areas to become a closer part of our community than ever before.

Schools are the beating hearts of communities, one of the last places around which a community can gather.

We are calling on budding writers and photographers from all of our schools to help fill the pages and, in order to encourage the next generation of journalists and snappers to get involved, we are partnering with Harvey Norman to present the Dublin Gazette Newspapers’ Cub Reporter and Cub Photographer of the Year awards.

For more details, contact rheigh@gazettegroup. com, or on 01 601 0240.

schools

st benildus college: students’ success in aib challenge

Building the perfect bank  Bhadrajee Hewage

St Benildus College, Kilmacud

Students at St Benildus College created their Solid Savings Bank recently to compete in the 2012/2013 AIB Build-aBank challenge, a competition aimed at educating Transition and 5th Year students about the reality of the banking world, including marketing and business.

The school has been competing in the Builda-Bank Challenge for over seven years now and this year’s competition saw over 30 students competing for six places on the banking team.

AIB Student Officer, Frank Browne of the Sandyford Branch, selected Bhadrajee Hewage for the position of manager, Stephen McEntee for assistant manager, Michael Crowley for the position of sales and marketing executive, Kevin Treanor as auditor and Adam McCormack and James Kearney as tellers.

SSB held its grand opening in early January 2013 and were generously supplied with balloons for the occasion by Leisureplex, Stillorgan.

The grand opening was so successful that 52 accounts were opened on the day and at the time of

St Benildus Bank Builders Adam McCormack, Kevin Treanor, Michael Crowley, James Kearney, Bhadrajee Hewage and Stephen McEntee. Picture: Frank Browne

print, over 80 accounts have been opened. This is about 80% more than the amount created last year and around 125%

more than the amount created by the banking team two years ago. The bank offers savings services, issues laser and debit

cards, allows customer to sign up for 24hr internet and mobile banking, and allows customers to lodge money.

Why advertise with the Gazette?

Let our advertisers tell you why:

“

Dlr Leisure Services has been using Dublin Gazette Newspapers for a number of years to communicate with our customers on our programmes.

We find the service we received excellent and they always offer us good value for money. The personal touch of having an account manager makes our life so much easier. The Dundrum & Dún Laoghaire Gazette covers the areas in which our centres are located. Dlr Leisure Services would have no hesitation recommending the Gazette to others to promote their company.

“

Gazette

14 Gazette 21 February 2013

B e c au s e L o c a l M at t e r s

21 February 2013 Gazette 15

FEATURE Major new contemporary music festival in Dublin is announced

Anti-bullying campaign to be launched

A major new music festival has been announced for Dublin and will allow people the chance to experience and explore new contemporary music from Ireland and abroad.

The first New Music Dublin (NMD) event, which takes place between March 1 and 3, has been set up by the Arts Council, The National Concert Hall, RTE Orchestras and the Contemporary Music Centre.

The festival will be held in the National Concert Hall and will showcase a broad range of musical creativity with the work of major international and Irish artists on offer.

Included in the NMD line up will be the RTE

The ISPCC, Ireland’s oldest independent children’s charity, will be launching an anti-bullying campaign this spring.

Believing there is a need for a concerted effort nationwide to work in partnership with schools, parents and communities to reduce incidents of bullying, the ISPCC will be hosting an anti-bullying awareness week from March 4 to 10, together with a nationwide campaign to raise awareness.

A Day of Action will take place on March 8, which will see staff and volunteers of ISPCC selling the “bullying shield” (€2) nationwide to raise awareness and funds for the charity’s cause.

Concert Orchestra performing the Irish premiere of Arvo Part’s Symphony No 4, Garth Knox will bring his Italian inspired Saltarello to the stage, and the Hilliard Ensemble will be singing the haunting music of Icelandic composer Johann Johannson.

In addition to the principal concerts, NMD has a schedule of workshops, masterclasses and other events to appeal to Dublin music lovers.

As well as the National Concert Hall, the Contemporary Music Centre (CMC) will play an important role in New Music Dublin by also hosting a number of events specifically to promote and support Irish composition.

Here,TCD Music Composition Centre will perform new music and show a documentary about composer Raymond Deane which was commissioned

by CMC for Deane’s 60th birthday.

Evonne Ferguson, director of CMC says: “I can’t wait for an entire weekend of immersion in such unique sound worlds from Ireland and abroad that puts Irish composition in a wider European and international context.

My only problem for the weekend is how not to miss anything.”

Tickets costing €5, are available from the box office of the National Concert Hall on 417 0000 or online at info@nch.ie

Cheque it out: Helping to grant magical wishes of sick children john Tuohy, chief executive, Nightline, presenting a cheque for

€5,000 to Susan O’Dywer, Make-A-Wish Ireland. Nightline Parcel Motel raised €1 from every parcel delivered over the Christmas period and is presenting all proceeds raised to charity partner Make-A-Wish Ireland. The Make-A-Wish foundation grants magical wishes to children between the ages of 3-17 years with lifethreatening medical conditions. All proceeds raised will be donated and used to grant the wishes of children nationwide creating wonderful lasting memories that will stay with their families forever regardless of what the future may hold.

GAZETTE

16 GAZETTE 21 February 2013

DUBLINLIFE

BUSINESS

Q&A: BRENDAN CUMISKEY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, TC MATTHEWS

Value to leave you floored DESPITE the impact of the recession, Brendan Cumiskey, managing director, TC Matthews, says that the firm – the biggest seller of wool carpets in the country – has noted that the demand for quality wool carpets has never diminished, even in recession.

“People are happy to look at wool carpets as an investment, rather than as a once-off discretionary purchase,” he says.

He added: “Carpets still account for a big slice of home furnishing spend, and we owe it to our customers to personally advise on what is the best investment for them – as a result, they trust us.

“Because we buy big volumes of wool carpets, we get them at very keen prices, and can then pass these savings on. It means more people who thought they couldn’t afford wool, now can.”

How long have you been in business?

Personally, I’ve been involved in the carpet trade all my life. TCM have been in business for a little longer – 100+ years.

What makes your business successful?

The team: we have the most dedicated staff I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with, and we have great customers – it’s that simple.

What do you offer your clients that differs

from your competitors?

We buy directly from the manufacturers.

Because of our buying power and size, we negotiate prices that others can only try to match by supplying inferior underlays and accessories, and employing less experienced fitters.

Plus, buying the carpet is only part of the process – the installation and service offered is just (if not more) important.

We have the knowledge, dedication, quality, choice and service that is the envy of our competitors.

How has the recession impacted your business?

The collapse of the new housing and commercial building markets really had a

www.

gazette .com

group All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

huge effect on us.

The subsequent lack in consumer confidence made business extremely challenging.

What have you changed about your business to combat the effects of the recession?

Like every business, we’ve had to “Cut our cloth to suit...”.

Now, more than ever, we focus on only buying products that represent real value – special offers that are more likely to sell quickly; exclusive products that are exactly the right shades, quality and price points for our customers.

We know that we have actually increased our market share and, in fact, we opened our Stillorgan branch just three years ago - right bang in the middle of this recession.

And we very recently opened a superb new showroom in Drogheda’s M1 Retail Park.

What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business?

If it were just to benefit my own business, that would be biased and irrelevant. Better to say that I believe that no one should have to pay tax on a much wider range of day-to-day necessities.

How do you use social media (Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn, etc) to help your business?

We are relative latecomers to social media – carpets are still very much a touchy-feely thing.

We are now investing in this type of media, but we do want to get it “just right” before we dive in.

Brendan Cumiskey: “We have the most dedicated staff I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with”

Don’t take rejection personally if your job application fails ...

“THANK you for your application/your CV/for meeting with us, but unfortunately, on this occasion ...”

You spent three hours on your CV, you met with the company twice, you did a fantastic PowerPoint presentation to their board of directors – and all you got was this lousy stock letter. Not even a phone call.

Not a week goes by but a superb person I know receives a job rejection letter and, let’s face it, even if you weren’t too excited about that job in the first place, a tiny bit of your career confidence dies each time.

Of course, feedback – if you can get it – is always best.

A few years ago, it was simply good etiquette for recruiters and employers to provide feedback.

Many organisations will still give it, but it’s becoming less frequent.

If you can’t fathom any reason whatsoever for your “rejection”, try not to take it personally and move on.

There are a plethora of possible reasons that you will never be a party to.

It could be something as simple as another candidate could start a week earlier and the employer needed to make a decision and didn’t have time to start negotiating with you over start dates.

It could be that head office has put a surprise freeze on recruitment.

A company I know hired one candidate over the other, simply because the decision-maker knew that the Line Manager didn’t like the candidate in question ... and the decision-maker didn’t like the Line Manager.

Petty? Perhaps. Does it happen? Oh, yes. What you have to remember is, it’s not personal, it’s just a process – their process.

If you are continually unsuccessful with your job applications, it may be time to review your approach

However – inclement economic conditions notwithstanding – can you put your hand on your heart and say that, after that CV, that interview, you can’t think of any reason they don’t want you?

If you are racking up a stack of “Thank you, but ...” letters, it may be time to review and amend your approach.

Look at your CV and interview technique in the harsh, cold light of day and be honest with yourself about the effort and time you devote to your applications.

Be clear that job rejection is absolutely no reflection of your personal worth, but don’t continue to do the same things time and time again and expect different results.  Contact Rachael at hello@thecareerhub.ie or visit www.

thecareerhub.ie. Rachael Kilgallon is a FETAC qualified career coach and founder of The Career Hub.

21 February 2013 Gazette 17

asdfsdaf P27 TRAVEl P24

MOTORS P24

OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week



Gazette

homes P20

We have 135,000* readers each week *based on standard industry measurements

advertise your business to our readers

call 60 10 240

Level 5: Jason Cafolla, Chris Leonard, Dean Gibbons, Shane Thornton and Darren Regazzoli

interview: five teens are taking country by storm

Hottest new boy band taking it to a new level  natalie burke

IRELAND has always been known for its successful boybands, and when it comes to the newest kids on this particular block, it seems we have our own direction.

Gone are the days w h e n We s t l i f e a n d Boyzone graced our walkmans, and in their place have stepped a new, young, hip (can we still use that word?) and passionate fivesome, eager to fill the gaping hole in the market left by their predecessors.

The five boys in question, aged between 16 and 19 years old and hailing from Dublin and Meath, make up Level 5, the country’s hottest new pop act.

Despite being together less than six months, Chris, Dean, Jason, Darren and Shane have already performed to thousands in the 02, performed at the 19th birthday bash of One Direction’s Niall Horan, and have developed a loyal following of Irish teenage girls.

In fact, their fans have

even dubbed themselves the ‘Levelers’, provided the band with a few unusual gifts and have helped the Level 5 Twitter page reach a massive 11,000 followers – and quickly counting.

And all this before they are due to release their first EP. But that is exactly what they have been working on ever since they released a successful Christmas single with X Factor finalist Mary Byrne in December and according to the boys, 2013 is looking to be an

important year for the future of Level 5.

“We’re doing a lot of different things at the moment; we’re writing some of our own stuff and just trying to get the balance right.

“Our EP is the first step and so far we’re having great craic with it, we’re in and out of the studios and doing what we love.

You can’t ask for better than that really,” said 16-year-old Chris, the youngest member of the group.

Continued on Page 21

Gazette

18 Gazette 21 February 2013

COMMUNIONS&CONFIRMATIONS what it means: communion and confirmation explained

Have your special family day at the K Although better known as the venue for some amazing sporting events of recent years, The K Club is also somewhere to consider for special family celebrations, including communions and confirmations.

Located in the village of Straffan, Co Kildare and on the banks of the River Liffey, the hotel is surrounded by 550 acres of mature woods, parkland and magnificent formal gardens – perfect for photographs.

The K Club understand the importance of helping families celebrate these momentous family occasions.

For further details on family celebrations at The K Club call (01) 601 7200 or email sales@ kclub.ie. Full details are also on The K Club website www.kclub.ie.

Everything you need to know about sacraments SILK white gowns, fake tan, stretch limousines and a huge bill. No, I am not talking about a wedding. I am listing some things that are commonly seen at communions and confirmations in 21st century Ireland.

We are fast approaching the months where the two religious sacraments take place, and there is no doubt that many families are preparing their budgets for the big day. It is a reality that nowadays people spend a lot more money on these occasions than

they did in the past, but some of the “traditions” which took place during the Celtic Tiger years aren’t as prevalent today. Of course there are ways of making the day memorable, but there are many ways that parents can ensure that their children do not lose sight of the real meaning behind these milestone events.

But to help your child understand and prepare for these sacraments, it’s important that you fully understand them yourself. So what are they all about?

Firstly, everyone must be baptised before they make their First Holy Communion. Then in the run-up to the communion, children will attend Confession to tell their wrong-doings or sins to a priest, who will give them penance in exchange.

Helping your child understand the meaning of their communion and confirmation will make the day extra special

Communion takes place in May for second class pupils in primary school, when they are aged seven or eight because this is the age when they are “sinfree”. Catholics believe

this sacrament is a remembrance of Jesus’s sacrifice and being united with Him in a special way, by receiving Him at the altar through the Holy Eucharist or holy bread, which symbolises His body.

Confirmation takes place in sixth class, when pupils are usually aged 11 to 13. This is when a child strengthens their commitment to Christ and accepting responsibility as an adult, and is conferred with the Holy Spirit and the laying on of hands by a bishop.

The child will choose a Christian name as their confirmation name, and they will also choose a sponsor to be a witness and to be their support, and the sponsor will stand with the child at the altar.

The bishop will trace the sign of the cross on the child’s forehead

with ‘Chrism oil’ and say: “Be sealed with the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.”

So to help prepare your child for these sacraments, it’s a good idea to talk to them about how much they know and understand.

You can also encourage them attending mass or children’s mass with them regularly.

Schools tend to have preparation meetings, so talking to the teachers about how they teach the children about these sacraments can also be a good source of information.

Most impor tantly, remember that communion and confirmation are special celebrations for your child. It’s not about all about how much pocket money they get that day, or whether they have a bouncy castle or not, its all about them.

21 February 2013 GAZETTE 19

GAZETTE

FEATURE TK Maxx €39.99 and €26.99

LOCALMATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZETTE CALL 60 10 240

t o n th e ir to lo o k g re a id k ir e th ts n h ave to m e a n Eve r y o n e w a ’t n s e o d t a b u t th s p e c ia l d a y, r tu n e . s p e n d in g a fo e many s t a fe w of th ju n e s o h c s as ha ta il e r s s u c h re G a ze tt e S ty le m o fr le b a e a r. e re ava il a n d D a rl in g w o u tf it s o u t th d n la e Ir s d o tl e w o o rge o u s T K M a x x , L it d by th e s e g e ir p s in t ll e g or h a p py, a s we s y o Ta ke a lo o k , b d n a ls w il l ke e p g ir ke ts . o u tf it s th a t p a re n ts’ p o c ir e th g n ri a as sp Littlewoods Freespirit €50

Darlingwear Dress €220

Darlingwear Hairband €20 Debenhams €93 Littlewoods’ Taylor & Reece Boys Fully-Lined Jacket €39 Taylor & Reece Boys Waistcoat and Cravat, from €17 and Single Pleat Trousers, from €20

TK MAXX 14 Criss Cross pearl dress €26.99 and lace front tutu dress €39.99

Gazette

20 Gazette 21 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

HOMES

newlands manor park: three-bedroom style

To the Manor born, a fresh new home Broe Auctioneers are presenting 40 Newlands Manor Park in Clondalkin, a deceptively spacious three-bedroom house boasting generous room propor tions throughout, to the market with an asking price of €225,000.

Positioned in a quiet cul de sac in this sought-after gated development with private access to 700 acres of parkland at Corkagh Park Demesne just off the N7, 40 Newlands Manor Park is presented in very good condition throughout and has been freshly painted offering a blank canvas for its new owner to put their stamp on it.

The property comprises

entrance hall with semi-solid flooring, a guest bathroom with WC, whb and tiled floor. There is a spacious lounge with semisolid flooring, a bay window and feature fireplace with a coal-effect gas fire.

The property boasts a sunroom which also features semi-solid flooring, velux windows, patio doors to the rear of the property and a pine-paneled ceiling.

The kitchen/dining room has fully-fitted beech shaker-style units, as well as cooker, fridge freezer and dishwasher included, and a tiled floor.

The utility room also has a tiled floor and is plumbed for washing machine.

Upstairs, all of the bedrooms feature fitted wardrobes, with the main bedroom leading to an en suite, which contains a WC, whb and shower, and the family bathroom contains the same features, with the addition of a bath.

Outside, the rear garden has a decked area and is surrounded by mature shrubs. There is also ample communal parking to front.

This complex is maintained to a very high standard and benefits from ample communal parking, electric gates and manicured green areas.

The property also comprises gas-fired central heating, an alarm system, and double glazing throughout, and as previously mentioned, direct access to Corkagh Park with private gateway from complex.

Viewing essential to appreciate all this superb family home has to offer, and to arrange a viewing, contact Lisa O’ Donoghue at Broe Auctioneers on 01 459 4433 or email lisa@broe.ie.

For more information, and to view other properties on offer, log on to www.broe.ie

40 Newlands Manor Park is on the market for €225,000

21 February 2013 Gazette 21

interview: all about level 5

Hottest new boy band taking it to a new level

Continued from Page 17

“We’re trying to get something fresh together.

There’s no point bringing out something people already know so we’re working with different ideas,” said band-mate Shane.

Following the boys’ Christmas collaboration with Mary Byrne, they said they would love to work with her again.

“We didn’t know what to expect but she was just so down to earth when we met her and it was such a relief. She was really nice and really looked after us as it was all so new,” said Darren.

Per forming at the Childline concert in the 02 has been the highlight of the band’s career so far, with the boys saying it was a ‘dream come true’.

“There are no words to describe what it is like walking out on to the stage in front of that many people. We were expecting nobody to know us and we could hear them screaming ‘Level 5’ even before we went out on stage. It was breathtaking”, Darren continued.

While the band may be the only all-Irish boyband on the music scene at the moment, Level 5 say they admire solo artists such

as Michael Buble and Justin Bieber, as well as bands they will ultimately be competing against for attention.

“We all admire different people but in terms of success, One Direction have hit the nail on the head. They really have made it and they deserve everything they have because they’ve worked so hard for it,” said Chris.

Traditional

With shows such as The Voice and the X Factor, new pop acts are entering the music scene every year. For the boys of Level 5 however, they are glad to have taken the more traditional route.

“When you go into the X Factor or any of those competitions, it’s very intense, you’re in the limelight from the word go. We feel like we’re going to build up our knowledge and will have done all the small gigs – the good ones and the bad ones – and when we get onto a stage, we will be a lot more polished. We feel like it’s the right way to do it,” Dean explained.

2013 is set to be a big year for the new boyband, who will be featuring in their own reality fly-onthe-wall documentary

series, The Rise of Level 5, which is due to go on air in just a few weeks time. The boys also plan to release a single to coincide with the TV show.

“It’s not going to be a documentary that will make us look fabulous; it shows everything bad and good,” said Jason. “It shows our ups and downs, when we’re just at cracking point and then when then when we’ve tears of happiness as well.”

“People think that being in a band means you just have to turn up, smile and pose – but it’s nothing like that. Every chance we get its practice, practice, practice.

We can’t wait for everyone to see that we actually do work hard. There’s a completely different side to it,” he added.

Unusual

With such a large following, the boys have already experienced being recognised in the city centre and have received some unusual gifts from their fans, including a pet hamster.

“Our fans are great and come everywhere with us. Most days they are [outside our rehearsal studio] and we have to try and convince them to go to school and that educa-

Level 5: Jason Cafolla, Chris Leonard, Dean Gibbons, Shane Thornton and Darren Regazzoli have a busy few months ahead of them

tion is important!”

O ve r t h e c o m i n g weeks, the band are set to take on a nationwide tour across 110 schools fronting the Pieta House Youth Suicide Prevention and Mind Your Buddy campaign. “We’re going to be giving talks as well as performing and trying to help people so it is a great cause”.

With a busy few months ahead, the future is certainly looking bright for the lads of Level 5.

“There is a lot on our wishlist! We would love to release an album and someday we would love to sell out a stadium.

That’s a goal. Next year we hope to do our own gig and even sell that out.

Obviously, it won’t be in the Aviva, but you never know!”

For more information, visit www.level5official. com or become fans/levelers of their Facebook page at www.facebook. com/level5official.

Gazette

MUSIC

Gazette

22 gazette 21 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

Theatre THE pavilioN THEATRE 01 231 2929 A Skull In Connemara

FOR one week each autumn, Mick Dowd is hired to disinter the bones in certain sections of his local cemetery, but is he hiding a secret? February 28March 2, tickets are priced at €18/€16.

Draiocht 01 885 2622 My Brother Joe

JOE Dolan’s brother Ben shared the stage with his younger brother for 47 fun-filled years. Who better than Ben to tell the stories behind Joe’s songs and highlight Joe’s successful singing career? February 28, tickets €22/€18.

Mill THEATRE 01 296 9340 The Importance of Being Earnest

OSCAR Wilde’s theatrical masterpiece is widely acknowledged as one of the greatest comedies in the English language. Wonderful characters, sparkling dialogue, gloriously improbable plot twists and a sprinkling of romance – The Importance of Being Earnest has it all. London Classical Theatre promise to bring this 19th Century classic to vivid, extravagant life with our customary flair, attention to detail, highquality casting and impeccable production values.

Catch the show on February 26 and 27, tickets are priced at €20/€16.

Judd Apatow’s children Iris and Maude and wife Leslie Mann play three quarters of This Is 40’s lead family

review: Judd apatow’s “sort of sequel” is sort of terrible

40 and unfunny

IF JUDD Apatow’s new film, This Is 40 was any realistic indication of middle age, the mortality rate among 39 year olds would be extremely high.

The film is called a stand alone sequel to Apatow’s 2007 hit, Knocked Up and focuses on the supporting characters of Pete played by Paul Rudd and Debbie played by Leslie Mann.

The couple are now turning 40 and their children are growing up and the plot (for want of a better word) revolves around their narcissistic refusal to accept the fact that they are ageing and that their relationship is an empty and unfulfilling disappointment.

Neither character is in any way likeable, they argue constantly and try to find meaning and genuine affection from each other where none exists or is deserved.

This was very hard

Film of the Week: This Is 40 h (15) 133 mins Director: Judd Apatow Starring: Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Jason Segel, Megan Fox

OUR VERDICT:  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

work to watch, not least because half of the audience laughed at every vacuous line or cheap sexual innuendo.

The film begins with a sex scene in the shower, in the middle of which Pete, the Paul Rudd character, admits he has taken a Viagra.

This immediately causes the Debbie character to stop the action and launch into one of her many, many whining diatribes about how life and Pete are not as she would wish either to be.

Pete, in true stereotypical Hollywood style as the innocent, nonplussed male, cannot work out

WHERE Knocked Up was earnest, funny and refreshing, this is the exact opposite. Overshot, meandering and unfunny; this film is self-indulgence of the worst kind by Apatow, an otherwise talented director who reckons his own life is so interesting we should all be forced to watch it.

why his wife is angered by such an admission while Debbie moans about not being attractive enough for her husband to perform naturally.

As a character, Debbie is even more annoying than her husband as she seeks constant validation through her physical appearance and the striving for perfection, while all the while having the body of a pre-pubescent girl.

Other characters are as vapid, if not as annoying as the two leads. Pete’s father, Larry, played by Albert Brooks, is a deadbeat who has triplet boys with his new wife thanks

to IVF treatment and constantly bums money off Pete.

This character is thoroughly unfunny, reprehensible and unapologetic but depicted as a charming cad.

Megan Fox makes an appearance as Debbie’s employee Desi who is also a high-class hooker.

She fulfills her role as sex symbol admirably with all of the men justifiably drooling as she disrobes in every other frame.

There is a scene where Debbie is looking at Desi’s body and starts to feel her breasts with fascination as though she has

never seen such things before.

Her co-worker, Jodi, played by Charlene Yi is truly disturbing as the Oxocontin addict with a penchant for imitating the Exorcist’s Regan McNeill.

The whole thing is a bizarre mess of halfformed ideas and flat jokes. The cast of actors which includes John Lithgow, though stellar, can never pull this written off vehicle out of its inertia.

In another weird twist, Chris O’Dowd appears with a full moustache and is literally in competition with Jason Segal, an actor who would be his natural competitor for Hollywood roles.

The only mildly redeeming and amusing bit of the film is a turn by Melissa McCarthy who plays the mother of a boy who has been cyber-bullying Debbie and Pete’s daughter.

21 February 2013 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

GAMING HMV: IMPACT OF CLOSURE FOR GAMERS, SHOPPERS

BYTES&PIECES XBOX FOUNDER ATTACKS MICROSOFT

Death of a giant retailer SO THAT’S it – the curtain has finally come down on HMV in Ireland, with the loss of 300 jobs at the chain’s 16 stores, as yet another retail domino topples over in the merciless chill winds of the recession.

It goes without saying that each one of those jobs is a terrible blow for the individual involved, while the knock-on impact such job losses, and store closures, have on local economies and communities is also to be noted, and regretted.

Stores across Britain have also been affected, with many jobs to be lost there, and shops shuttered, as HMV’s British wing attempts to restructure itself and survive.

Here, the Irish wing’s administrator, Deloitte, had been seeking a buyer for the stores but was unsuccessful, with a statement for the receiver to HMV Ireland, David Carson, announcing: “The marketplace is very difficult, given competition from web-based retailers and digital downloads, compounded by a number of other factors, ... It was not possible to attract a purchaser.”

What does HMV’s closure mean for Irish gamers? The chain’s closure here further reduces gamer choice, with the loss of such physical bricks-and-mortar outlets

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@gazettegroup.com

Key engineer raises eyebrows with “Stupid” blog

HMV’s Grafton Street outlet is now closed for good, as the company joins GAME on the list of collapsed games retailers in Ireland

almost certainly likely to shunt consumers more towards online distributors instead.

Yes, it’s true that a quick glance around Dublin, and elsewhere, reveals a number of games retailers, albeit few that are fully dedicated games retailers, as GameStop are.

Instead, there are several chains that also sell games, such as Smyths Toys, Xtravision, Tesco

– and that’s yer lot.

At the same time, many of the remaining retailers have succumbed to “secondhanditis” – using valuable shelf space to flog traded-in games, rather than set aside space for a wider (and more creative) selection of new or recently released titles.

As such, for gamers looking for real choice for their gaming interests, or to support their platforms,

and Argos, to name but a few, as well as a number of smaller, independent retailers and games exchanges dotted here and there.

However, almost without exception, the range of games available at such well-known outlets is usually small – to say the least – with consumers often lucky to find the top 10 or 15 titles on the main platforms, and often with nothing at all from smaller games platforms

this is a negative development, as gamers often tend to look out for older games that have dropped in price, or “smaller” games that aren’t piled high on shelves as blockbuster titles.

Despite HMV’s flaws, and despite facing the same limitations outlined above, at least it also had an okay range of stock, accounting for an acceptable range of platforms.

But where now for the lowly PC gamer to graze,

for example?

It’s also worth pointing out that HMV were also notably, and often significantly, cheaper than rival retailers – I couldn’t tell you how many times I saw titles on sale in HMV, only to see the same game with eye-raising price differences in rival chains and shops very close by.

As such, with the loss of such a well-known chain and its physical outlets, gamers across the country could be feeling the financial pinch even more acutely than before – that’s if they can find the title they wanted in the first place.

Inevitably, other games distributors and chains should see a bounce in their footfall and sales, with the loss of one of the last remaining giants.

These survivors face their own challenges, with the inexorable rise of online retailers – usually with cheaper prices, and certainly with a wider choice of titles – presenting a very real threat to their sustainability, too.

W here HMV have gone, others may yet follow. Watch this space ...

ONE of the key founders of Microsoft’s original XBox console, Nat Brown, sent ripples through the games media (and other media, such as The Huffington Post) just before St Valentine’s Day with a pretty withering blog attack (to put it mildly) on the company and its management of the XBox 360 (below), bluntly entitled: “Stupid, Stupid xBox!!”

The engineer – who also named the original console – didn’t hold back with his opinions, with such choice jibes as: “Microsoft has jumped its own shark and is out stomping through the weeds planning and talking about far-flung future strategies ... when their core product, their home town is on fire, their soldiers, their developers, are tired and deserting, and their supply-lines are broken.”

Ouch. Brown wasn’t feeling a lot of love for Microsoft for St Valentine’s Day, that’s for sure.

While such opinions are Brown’s own, and while many would rebutt them, some of his irate words raised some interesting (and valid) points about the threat that small-scale apps present to Microsoft, and its console rivals.

With Apple yet to reveal the oftmooted Apple TV, and the plethora of attention-grabbing apps such a move would undoubtely entail, there’s still time for Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo to attempt to prepare for such a threat ...

24 DUNDRUM gazette 21 February 2013

Gazette

& OUT ABOUT road

rapid: serious practicality at a seriously competitive price

NOISE

Ford invites you to check out their high-tech gadgets

As the first car brand to achieve a total of seven different Euro NCAP Advanced safety rewards in recognition of its wide range of technologies during February, Ford’s network of Dublin dealers is inviting customers to come in and try out the vast array of hightech gadgets that now come as standard or optional on its cars.

From MyKey on the new Fiesta; which allows parents to influence their children’s use of the car just by programming the key, to the new Ford SYNC with Emergency Assistance, which automatically alerts the emergency services if a car is in a crash, Ford’s technology is geared towards making the driving experience a much safer one.

Active city stop prevents a car from colliding with a vehicle or other obstacle in front at speeds under 30km/h, while the Lane Keeping Aid warns against veering off line due to fatigue.

The technologies are also geared to

The Ford Kuga

TRAVEL MOTORS

making life more convenient for the driver.

Active park assist, for example, takes away the hassles of parallel parking by automatically steering the car into a space.

For laden-down shoppers, meanwhile, the automatic tailgate on the brand-new Kuga is a real blessing.

Opening the tailgate is activated just by the driver moving his or her foot under the rear bumper - no more fiddling with keys!

Eddie Murphy, chairman and managing director of Ford Ireland comments: “Ford is first to market with a lot of these technologies, while in other cases they have been the preserve of more luxury models up to now.

“Affordable technology is what Ford stands for, meaning even Ireland’s most popular car – the Ford Focus – can be purchased with practically every hi-tech feature out there.”

For further details, please see www.dublinford.ie.

It’s simple, sturdy and safe – but special it isn’t n Cormac Curtis

Skoda have been busy making use of their momentum in the motoring world by adding new models to fill as many segments of the market as they can.

Short of a sports coupe and a top-end executive SUV, they have been carefully releasing new and, as they would say, clever models to a public that have been eager to get on board.

The latest addition to the Skoda family is the Rapid.

Here we have a midsize saloon aimed very much at a family looking to carry more stuff without spending too much money to get it.

Have they achieved what they have set out to do?

Definitely.

Unless you have been living under a rock for the past six months, you will have seen just how serious Skoda are about getting these cars on the road. The TV, radio and press have been positively heaving with Rapid advertising – and why not? They have a quality car delivered at a good price ready for a market that is growing everconscious of how much it can spend on the new family car.

I spent a week with the 1.2-litre TSI 86bhp petrol version of the Rapid.

First impressions?

Solid. Everything I have come to expect from this brand.

It won’t get too many jealous looks from younger drivers, but that’s hardly the point.

Rapid drivers won’t

The Skoda Rapid affords the occupants a bucket load of safety features and space

be all that bothered with image, but they will be happy with a car that looks solid and well proportioned.

This is a practical motor designed to offer serious practicality at a seriously competitive price.

So, while it won’t set the world alight in the looks department, it does have a comfortable interior and affords the occupants a bucket load of safety features and space.

Ah yes, space. What is it about Skoda engineers and squeezing every last millimetre of room out of every car?

The Superb range leads the pack in rear leg room, which gets better with every new model.

The CitiGo is Tardis-like in how many fully-grown adults in can accommodate in a very small car.

And the Octavia boasts a boot that would give an

airplane hangar a run for its money.

As with all Skoda models, the build quality of the interior is top-class.

I never feel as though a Skoda interior is likely to age badly or deteriorate like some of its competitors will.

The materials are tough and the parts never flimsy.

The chrome accents that highlight parts of the cockpit in the Elegance spec model I drove looked as though they will always add a little class to its appearance without fading or cracking.

The leather on the steering wheel felt luxurious and the radio and telephone controls were just where they should be and behaved just as expected.

So, the other bits and pieces in the Elegance spec include upgraded 16” DIONE alloys, the ‘vintage’ interior, Onyx-

Onyx dashboard (or no cost optional OnyxBeige), a chrome pack that includes upgraded gear stick knob, frame of shift lever, control elements of interior air supply and locking button of hand brake.

For safety and comfort, it includes rear parking sensors, cruise control, climatronic air conditioning, front and rear electric windows, a rear centre armrest, two additional rear loudspeakers and height adjustable driver and passenger seats.

So, there is a lot there to add to the car’s appeal.

And there’s the rub.

For me, for all its practicality, functionality, build quality, safety and comfort, the car just wasn’t at all special. It was just a bit dull.

From a driver’s point of view, I felt the clutch took far too long to get used to and didn’t provide the

feedback I would like, and the suspension is not forgiving enough for a car that is clearly geared at families.

At the price point where it enters the market, and because there are so many attractive finance packages available, even from Skoda themselves, I would personally go rummaging around the back of the sofa for the extra few quid required to buy an Octavia.

Put it this way, the Rapid range starts off at €16,515 and the Octavia comes in at €18,590.

Not a huge difference in price, and, for my money, the Octavia is a better car AND it’s just been given a very pretty upgrade lifting it out of the ordinary and making it a real eyeturner.

Watch this space for a review of the new Octavia in the coming months.

21 February 2013 DUNDRUM gazette 25

Gazette

HOMES TRAVEL tullamore: luxurious touches help make your midlands visit a treat

The Bridge House links body and soul superbly  natalie burke

UNTIL recently, travelling to the midlands was something I had a tendency to overlook when it came to arranging a weekend away.

Such drives featured a host of quaint drivethrough towns where I occasionally stopped, but hadn’t really considered as making my final destination.

In fact, one of the only times I had travelled to Tullamore, Co Offaly, was to do my driving test, yonks ago; I think the waiting list in Dublin was extremely long, so I thought a country town was my best bet.

It turns out I was wrong, but I passed second time round anyway. But who would have thought that the town is fast emerging as the ideal destination for a much needed break away?

A recent invitation found me driving down the N4 from Dublin once again – with a full licence this time – and heading directly for The Bridge House Hotel and Spa. Just a hop, skip and an hour from Dublin’s fair city, Tullamore is perhaps best known for its famous

export, Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey, and hosts a heritage centre in its honour.

But the town also has much more to offer: local heritage trips, shopping and dining, and a range of outdoor activities, with one of its biggest draws being, perhaps, its most popular hotel.

The welcome at The Bridge House Hotel was a warm one, which was a thankful break from the winter weather outside.

The lobby greets its guests with a sweeping staircase and a cosy blend of dark woods, and the hotel’s interior is subtle and luxurious.

We were lucky enough to stay in a suite, which had its own private balcony to admire the local view.

We arrived just in time to take some time out in the Sanctuary Spa and my masseuse managed to massage away a stressful week with a full body massage.

An hour-long treatment, it was complete with warm towels and soothing music and, thanks to the spa’s late opening hours, we still managed to fit in some time to relax in the outdoor hydrotherapy pool afterwards.

Post-spa, it was time for dinner at Balcone Italiano, the in-house Italian restaurant. Located on the top floor of the hotel, the restaurant overlooks the main lobby.

Vintage Designed in true vintage Italian kitchen style, the furniture and decor is reminiscent of a real Italian country home – or, at least, what I imagine one to be – and the menu really has something for everyone.

Our table enjoyed a charcuterie board to start, with a selection of Italian cheeses, salami and parma ham, which was followed by golden-fried button mushrooms with garlic and chive mayon-

From the spa to the restaurant and, of course, the bedrooms, the Bridge House Hotel has many luxurious touches

naise.

For our main course, we enjoyed a tender filet of steak, which – after seeing the size of my fellow guest’s T-bone steak – was too good to suffer any food envy.

The restaurant was buzzing with a mixture of guests and locals and the good food, wine and company was certainly one that will be tough to top.

The restaurant even played host to Rosanna Davison on the night, with whispers that she was making her own pizza in the kitchen. It’s clearly a popular place.

Indulging in one last dr y-Januar y sin, we enjoyed an apres-dinner drink in The Palace nightclub, which adjoins the

the bridge house hotel deTAils  The Bridge House Hotel’s spa-

course dinner on one night, and

cious family accommodation can

Kids Camp from just €349.

sleep up to five comfortably. From

For further details, see www.

Sunday, March 24 to Friday, April 5,

bridgehousehoteltullamore.ie or

enjoy three nights’ B&B, a four-

call 057 932 5600.

hotel at a nice and soundless distance, before calling it a night.

I’m a huge fan of breakfast, but particularly when it’s brought to the table – a rare treat. Following some pick-me-up coffee and, of course, a full Irish, we reluctantly checked out of the hotel to begin the short journey home.

The second-night stay will have to wait until next time!

26 dundrum gazette 21 February 2013

DundrumCLASSIFIEDS

alterations

event

ALTER ME

Tailoring and Alteration Services

Monday to Saturday 8.30am to 5pm 9 Braemor road, Churchtown

@I@J? HL@Q FI>8E@J8K@FE @eXl^liXc ;lYc`e Hl`q Fg\e @e[`m`[lXc K\Xd Hl`q <m\ekj 8 Z_XeZ\ kf dXb\ k_\ @i`j_ k\Xd ]fi k_\ <lifg\Xe Hl`q :_Xdg`fej_`gj

GRAFFITI

GRAFFITI REMOVAL

services

Plastering

+, 1-"45&3*/( 4&37*$&4 &YUFOTJPOT 3FOPWBUJPOT /FX #VJMET $PSOFST BOE $PWJOH mUUFE (BSEFOXBMMT 4IFET FUD "MM XPSLT HVBSBOUFFE

Phone: 0868736841

For free quotation call Jim on 086 8178886 RECRUITMENT

Animals

WANTED

flooring

Childcare Worker / Montessori Teacher PT

The childcare worker & Montessori teacher will assist the manager in the coordination of the daily running of the rooms in line with pre-school childcare regulations and the crèche policies and procedures.

.POEBZ UP 'SJEBZ BN QN 4BUVSEBZ BN o QN

CV to be forwarded by email to: info@flowerscreche.com Tel: 2613977 Flower Childcare Clonskeagh is an equal opportunities employer

builders BRICK,BLOCK AND STONEWORK 20 years experience, living locally.

Garden walls, sheds, brick piers, patio & paving. Decorative internal brick work, Plastering, Concrete Drives and paths.

New Builds.

Insurance quotes.

Call Dave anytime 0872917647

dvd services

ROOFING

STUART MASTERSON Registered & Insured RooďŹ ng Contractor Flat RooďŹ ng Specialists Industrial, Residential & Commercial

Cinefilms,Photos and Slides transferred to DVD with Music and Titles added. Camcorder and Videotapes edited and transferred to DVD.

â&#x20AC;˘ Felt work â&#x20AC;˘ Slating & Tiling â&#x20AC;˘ Organic Seedom â&#x20AC;˘ Guttering Fascia & SoďŹ ts P: 01 4439398 M: 087 - 7712463, 086 - 2006217 E: mastersonrooďŹ ng@gmail.com stuartjmasterson@hotmail.com W: www.mastersonrooďŹ ng.ie

Phone 01-2807838 Mobile 087-9132265 Email: alleventsvideo@eircom.net

TaeKwon-Do

dentistry

$36.-*/ $-0/%"-,*/

%&/563& 4&37*$& /&8 -08&3 13*$&4 "-- /&8 %&/563&4 ."%&

3FQBJST t 3FMJOFT t .JTTJOH 5FFUI "EEFE $ISPNF $PCBMU %FOUBM 1MBUFT 1BMBUF 'SFF %FTJHOT

3&%6$5*0/ '03 .&%*$"- $"3% )0-%&34 /&8 '30. ".&3*$" 6/#3&","#-& %&/563&4 t5IJO t -JHIUXFJHIU t5JHIU ĂśUUJOH t 'MFYJCMF t (VBSFOUFFE OPU UP CSFBL

*EFBM GPS QBSUJBM EFOUVSFT

"-40 5&&5) 8)*5&/*/( /FBS 4U "OHFT $IVSDI $SVNMJO %VCMJO

1I

'BDJOH -BVSFMT 1VC $MPOEBMLJO 7JMMBHF %VCMJO

1I

Home services

plumbers JT PLUMBING

Doors, floors, stairs, fitted units, kitchens, decking.

Painting, papering, tiling, Insulation, Soundproofing Works To Walls, Floors, Ceiling. Roof repairs, property maintenance & renovations. Est: 1990.

Member of N.G.O.M.C www.comiskeydecorating andcarpentry.com Andrew Comiskey 086 2742869/ 01 8251315

BEST PRICES IN DUBLIN!!

All areas covered. 15 years experience. Free estimates.

OUTSIDE TAP SUPPLIED & FITTED â&#x201A;Ź70 Water Tanks, Drippings Taps, Radiators, Burst pipes, Cylinders, Pumps, Outside Taps, Showers, Immersions, Bathroom Suites.

For your free estimate call now on 085 7555412 or email: mjrules44@gmail.com

Religious talks

INVITATION TO BIBLE TALKS

5BF,XPO %P

,PSFBO "SU PG 4FMG %FGFODF

Master Douglas Taekwon-Do School Adult and children Classes from 8 yrs Beginners / Advanced Friday /Tuesday 7.00-8.00pm

Little Dragon Class For Boys & Girls 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7 years Every Friday 6.00 -6.45 pm

ALL ARE WELCOME AL (Talks are free and non-demoninational) Tel: 087 752 5214

PHONE 085 755 2075

EMAIL: stevenfarrell27 @gmail.com FREE QUOTES GIVEN

Fully insured

I Mr. A. Davies intend to apply for planning permission for a single storey extension to rear of 1A Balally Park, Dundrum, Dublin 16.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, Dun Laoghaire during its public opening hours.

A submission/observation may be made on payment of â&#x201A;Ź20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the Planning Authority 17600

This is a specially designed class for Boys & Girls 5-7 years of age to introduce them to the basic movements of TaeKwon-Do in a safe and fun way while helping them with their hand-eye co-ordination, balance, speed, agility and team work Venue: Kilternan C.O.I National School Eniskerry Road Master Douglas 8th Degree Black belt Tel: 086.3200782 Mr Declan Mc Donnell 2nd Degree Black belt Tel: 086.0739390

More information: www.masterdouglastkd.com

Every Sunday 7pm - 8pm in Faughs GAA Club Wellington Lane, Templeogue, Dublin 6W

STEVEN FARRELL PAINTING SERVICES

planning Notice dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council

home services

DVD TRANSFERS

services

Recruitment

planning Notice dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council David Gregory Design (Tel.: 0876791541) seeks permission for: Construction of front porch and 16 sq.m. single storey extension to rear of existing 47 sq.m. house. 2. Construction of a new 56 sq.m. single storey dwelling to the side of the existing house. 3. Associated site development works, at 34 Drummartin Terrace, Goatstown, Dublin 16, on behalf of Lee Brothers Construction Ltd. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, County Hall, DĂşn Laoghaire during its public opening hours.

A submission/observation may be made on payment of â&#x201A;Ź20 within a period of 5 weeks from the date the application is received by the planning authority.

17622

21 February 2013 DUNDRUM Gazette 27

asdfsdaf gaelic games P27 P31

dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community



Gazette

dublin gazette awards P28

FastSport O’Brien enjoys mixed Welsh fortunes:

Cricket Ireland enjoyed a great week, announcing their extended list of central contracts as well as a new link up with Toyota

cricket: ireland extend professional ranks with new funding level added

Malahide’s Chase one of the newcomers on contract list MALAHIDE’S Peter Chase was one of the major beneficiaries of the 17 contracts announced by Cricket Ireland for the 2013 season as one of three youngsters who are new to the list.

Max Sorensen, 27, meanwhile has been rewarded with an A contract after impressing with his consistency, speed and accuracy during an outstanding 2012 season. The Hills opening bowler joins established Dublin-based stars Trent Johnston, John Mooney, Alex Cusack and Kevin O’Brien in the top bracket of deals.

There are now four categories of contracts, with the C band dedicated to players who are in full-time education, headed by Stuart Thompson, who is already a full international.

Promising pace bowler Chase and the Cricket Ireland Young Player of the Year Tyrone Kane both earn contracts for the first time as Ireland look to the future following the recent retirements of Boyd Rankin, Nigel Jones and Albert van der Merwe.

Cricket Ireland performance director Richard Holdsworth said: “We are

pleased to retain players on A and B category contracts from last year, and all of them still have a great deal to achieve on the international stage.

Future

“It is important Cricket Ireland has plans for the future, and whilst 2013 will be a huge year for the team, we must also look ahead to major ICC events – the World Twenty20 in 2014 and the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand the following year.

“We have therefore awarded a full

A contract to Max Sorensen who impressed everyone in 2012, taking 31 wickets at just 17 runs each in the 21 games he played.

“We have also awarded C category contracts to four younger players who we see as a key part of our future.

Nine of the 17 contracted players are also contracted to English counties, and our close relationships with those counties will hopefully allow them to play for Ireland as much as possible in addition to the ICC mandatory matches in season.

LUCAN man Fergal O’Brien qualified for the main draw of a world ranking snooker event for the first time in 2013 last week when he overcame Nigel Bond 4-3 in the qualifiers for the Welsh Open.

He was undone, though, by former world champion Graham Dott in the first round of that competition. O’Brien started well with a break of 89 to win the first frame and he was still very much in the mix at 2-2 when he rattled in a clearance of 57.

But Dott ground out the next two frames to set up a date with world billiards champion Pankaj Advani in the second round of the competition.

c o n ta c t s Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@gazettegroup.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6205

Gazette

28 DUNDRUM Gazette 21 February 2013

SPORT

Stars of 2012 T HE upcoming Gazette Sports Awards are set to celebrate a string of stunning acheivements for clubs and schools around Dublin, running the gamut from county to provin-

Kilmacud Crokes senior hurlers

cial to All-Ireland to European honours. Among the list of clubs that will be in attendance at the event on March 8 in the Red Cow Moran hotel, there are some that have waited 99 years

Sports Teams

to reach the pinnacle of their game while others have risen to incredible heights despite only forming within the past15 years, confounding expectations in the most impressive way.

Colaiste Phadraig

Father and Son All-Ireland winners Gerry and Robert Moran

Malahide RFC

Foxrock Cabinteelyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ladies footballers

Swords judo club

Malahide CS golf team

Three Rock Rovers

St Brigidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Feile double

Castle Golf Club - Irish Senior Cup winners

Castleknock Dublin and Leinster JFC champions

21 February 2013 DUNDRUM Gazette 29

Gazette

30 DUNDRUM gazette 21 February 2013

SPORT

FastSport

Soccer: PSJ take impressive point against francis

Huddersfield know that Kane is able BLACKROCK teenager Danny Kane has been signed by the Huddersfield Town Academy after gathering attention for his performances at Cherry Orchard and in the Irish international ranks where he most recently impressed against Estonia.

Such is the demand for the talented teen that Huddersfield Town Academy have admitted they had to fight off a number of high profile English clubs to bring in the Republic of Ireland Under-16 captain.

The centre back, who played for Stillorgan side Lakelands before moving to Cherry Orchard, will join the Terriers in the summer and work with Academy manager Mark Lillis (pictured with Danny above) and professional development coaches Frankie Bunn and Tony Carss.

The Irish skipper spent a short time on trial at the club towards the end of 2012 and will also spend the holiday periods training at ‘The Yorkshire Club’, just as he has done during the last week.

Huddersfield Town’s head of football operations Ross Wilson commented on Kane’s arrival and praised the work of the Irish setup and Cherry Orchard, for their role in the player’s development.

“We have been tracking Danny extensively in recent months,” said Wilson. “His performances for Cherry Orchard and for the Republic of Ireland suggest that he is a young player with considerable potential, but of course he has a long way to go in his journey to reach his personal goals.

“He will be supported excellently in that development by all of our technical and support staff, led by Mark Lillis, whilst he can also rely on the backing of an extremely supportive family back in Ireland.”

Cherry Orchard club secretary Penny Delmar also weighed in on Kane’s decision to move and spoke of the defender’s performances for club and country.

“I am delighted for Danny to have signed with Huddersfield Town, a club with genuine ambition. He has developed very well at Cherry Orchard Football Club in recent times and has been a credit to himself also in representing the Republic of Ireland youth international side.”

The Pegasus/St James team which was frustrated as they could have taken all three points against league leaders St Francis

Pegasus are grounded  Carl Duffy sport@gazettegroup.com

LSL Senior 1a Pegasus/St James St Francis

0 0

UCD Sports Campus played host to a thrilling top 4 encounter between Pegasus/St James Athletic and St Francis FC on Sunday morning.

In the opening minutes, St Francis looked the more promising of the two sides, their wingers Jordan Gardner and Gary Shaw spearheading the league leaders’ attack.

Gardner was instrumental in creating a

chance for striker Anthony Shortt, who in turn did well to make room for a shot which Pegasus goalkeeper Mark Bambury did well to get down low.

With 10 minutes played, the away side looked to have scored when they countered from a corner kick, Shortt superbly controlling Eoin Rogers clearance and spreading a pass out to Gardner, who in turn picked out Shortt towards the back post where he duly slotted the ball into the back of the net only for the goal to be ruled offside.

Following this early scare, the home side

senior championships Wood you believe it!

Shauna scoops medal Brothers Pearse 400 metre runner

Shauna Cannon bagged the gold medal at the Woodie’s DIY AAI Senior Indoor Championships last weekend.

Here she is pictured centre with Ray Colman, chief executive of Woodie’s DIY, left, and Ciaran O Catháin, President of Athletics Ireland, right, second place Jenna Bromell, Emerald A.C., left, and third place Mandy Gault, Lagan Valley A.C., right.

regrouped thanks in part to the leadership of their captain Barry Fagan, who looked to keep control of the ball and dictate the pace of his sides play which stifled the visitors and forced them to sit deeper in midfield.

Both sides finished out the half with several chances on goal, but Pegasus winger Ruairi Scolland and Francis’s Gardner would both be denied.

In the second half, Pegasus began to play more direct, a change in tactic which resulted in a 25 minute spell of dominance for the south Dub-

lin side which saw strikers Paul Cummins and Daniel Coxban on the end of several chances on goal, the latter chipping Rogers on one occasion only for the ball to strike the crossbar and be cleared from danger.

The visitors continued to quickly counter on the break with Gavin Doyle,only to find a well-organised Pegasus defence led by Brian Duffy stopping them in their tracks, showing everyone why they have only conceded nine league goals this season.

The chance of the

game fell to Scolland on the 70th minute following link up play with Cummins and Coxban, which culminated in Scolland finding space inside the box but Rogers once again producing a vital save.

The Baldonnel side held on for the draw and duly showed why they are league leaders, thanks to their captain Craig Gardner who lead an organised defence and leave Pegasus/St James frustrated as they felt they could have won the game, if they just showed more ruthlessness in front of goal.

21 February 2013 DUNDRUM gazette 31

Gazette

Boden contingent lose out in hurling  sport@gazettegroup.com

B A L LY B O D E N S t Enda’s Gary Maguire, Shane Durkin and Conal Keaney were part of the Leinster panel last weekend that were put out of the running to retain their 2012 Inter Provincial Hurling Championship after being beaten by Connacht, 3-13 to 1-16 in

Tullamore.

Connacht boss Anthony Cunningham showed off his great tactical mind by bringing Damien Hayes and Davy Glennon off the bench during the semi-final tie, with both going on to score a goal each that would prove to be the difference between the two sides.

Leinster will be disap-

pointed with the result having led by a five point margin at two stages during the game, but the difference between the two sides was quite significant in the dying embers with Connacht leading by 3-13 to 0-16 before Eoin Larkin grabbed a goal which came too late to be anything but a consolation.

Kilkenny hurler Brian Hogan, who was captain of the Leinster outfit, claimed that the turning point of the game came when a Shane Dooley shot stopped on the line after getting stuck in the mud, allowing Connacht to clear.

“I suppose Connacht pushed on from there rather than us,” he said.

Club Noticeboard Ballyboden St Enda’s THERE was no winner of the lotto this week which means next week’s jackpot is €2,000.

All support welcome - It will be a great night.

Match first three winners were Eoin

Sportsprophet 2013 is back so if you

Reid, Mount Alton, Knocklyon , Cliodh-

think you are sports expert and you

na Reid, Mount Alton, Knocklyon , Sean

would like to win a few bob log onto

MacMathuna, Clarinda Park West,

www.bodengaa.ie for more infor-

Dun Laoghaire and Miriam Barry,

mation and if you are a dab hand at

Woodlawn Park Grove, Firhouse.

cards - why not come to the club on a

The club extends its deepest sympathy to Kevin Maguire and family on the

football: Gilroy happy with narrow win

from 8pm to 9pm in the clubhouse.

death of his mother Sarah.

Friday Night at 9pm for a game of 25.

New members always welcome.

Congratulations to Ballymun Kick-

In football news, the Minor foot-

ams on their recent win over Cross-

ballers overcame Cuala in the Gaelic

maglen Rangers in the All Ireland Club

Football League while the Senior foot-

Semi Finals.

ballers defeated neighbours St Judes in the Vincent de Paul Cup. With days to go until Battle of the Boden commences in the National Basketball Arena the boxers are in the final stages of preparation.

Tickets are on sale this Thursday

Best of luck to them in the All Ireland Club Finals on St Patrick’s Day. For any Ballyboden news or information check out www.bodengaa.ie Follow us on twitter @bodengaa or on Facebook by searching BodenGAA.

Cuala CONGRATULATIONS to Lorraine Hayes,

payment of memberships have been

crowned Cuala Club Person of the Year

slow.

at the Annual Awards night in the Killiney Castle Hotel on Saturday.

Ballyboden midfielder Michael Dara MacAuley helped Pat Gilroy’s Leinster past Connacht

MacAuley helps Leinster into final Interprovincial s/f Leinster 1-21 Connacht 1-20  sport@gazettegroup.com

ENERGETIC Ballyboden St Enda’s midfielder, Michael Darragh MacAuley was in action for the Leinster panel last weekend in Longford as they booked their place in the final of the Inter Provincial Football Championship with a narrow win over Connacht 1-21 to 1-20.

Connacht, despite their depleted side, held a two point lead in the final passages of the game before the 2010

Footballer of the Year, Bernard Brogan, fed Adrian Flynn a ball that was put over. Brogan then equalised himself with a free before he punched the winning point over the bar.

The game was played at a fairly low intensity in the first half and Leinster, coached by All Ireland winning coach Pat Gilroy, led for much of the half by 1-2 to 0-2 before the western outfit fought back with four unanswered points of their own.

Connacht’s scoring blitz added some spice to the affair and the two

sides began to score at ease, as the half-time score line suggested, 0-14 to 1-8 in favour of the John Tobin panel, with the only goal coming from Leinster’s Joe Sheridan.

Tipperary’s Paul Conroy really put the wind in the Connacht sails when his shot rippled the net with 10 minutes to go to give his side a five point lead, but it was then that Brogan really ignited and made his scoring presence known.

“He was exceptional,” said Gilroy of the Dublin forward after the game.

“He was keen to get into

the final – as he said, he has played in it four or five times and he had never won a match.

“A lot of lads were in the same boat so it was nice to come out the right side of it,” said the former Dublin boss.

The final of the competition is due to take place next Sunday in Croke Park and with the GA A aiming to make €100,000 for charity by giving all the gate receipts to Crumlin Children’s Hospital, they’ll be hoping for a better turnout than the couple of hundred that turned out in Longford.

Payments may be made though Paypal, see club website for details, to a

Well done also to every other recipi-

team manager or mentor, to the Club

ent on the night. We’ll have a review in

Office, or directly to the Adult Regis-

the Cuala Weekly newsletter on Thurs-

trar (contact Fiona on 087 6334450 or

day and no doubt plenty of pictures on

fiona_treacy@hotmail.com. To facili-

the website at www.cualagaa.ie

tate players training, a final night for

Good luck to David Treacy with DIT

registration, Thursday February 21,

and Oisin Gough with UCD as they take

has been organised from 8pm to 9pm

to the field in the quarter finals of the

in Bray Emmets. Remember that

Fitzgibbon Cup on Tuesday.

unless you are a fully paid up member

Hard luck to the Minor A Footballers who were edged out in a high scoring game at Sancta Maria against Ballyboden at the weekend.

by deadline you will not be allowed to play for your team.

Any queries on this please contact Fiona. Well done to Dublin Champions

Congratulations to Ciara McKeown

Ballymun Kickhams on making it to

who has been selected for the Dublin

Croke Park for the final of the AIB Club

U16 panel. Ladies Minor training con-

Championships next month.

tinues every Wednesday night from

The Cuala Take me out fundraiser

7.50-9pm in Holy Child, Killiney. All are

takes place on Saturday. 300 tickets

welcome.

have been sold already and the last

Calling all adult members (player/ official/non-player) - the deadline for payment (February 28) is fast approaching and so far take up and

few tickets can be snapped up through the Adult football section.

There’s plenty more about this on Facebook.com/cualaclg.

Wanderers ADULT Men’s Football training con-

nity College Gym, Tuesday 7.15pm

tinues throughout the week.

Frank Kelly Park,Thursda y 9pm

All new players are welcome to attend.

Three Rock Rovers, Sunday 10.30am Knocklyon Community School.

For our first team please contact

League commences this Sunday

John for details on 0868118372 and

February 24, Junior A’s are at home

for the second Team please contact

to Naomh Barrog at 11am, Junior B’s

Mark on 0876732628 or Damian on

away to St Kevins Killians at King-

0868632565.

swood 3pm, all support welcome,

Training occurs weekly as follows.

Monday 7.45pm Firhouse Commu-

check club Facebook and website for more detail.

GazetteSPORT all of your dundrum sports coverage from page 27-31

Wings clipped: Pegasus boss league leaders St Francis but are held in LSL Senior 1/A P30

february 21, 2013

sport star celebrations: Fourth annual Dublin Sports Awards to rock the Red Cow P28

Thirty years of serving Ballinteer  peter carroll

sport@gazettegroup.com

BALLINTEER St Johns GAA Club celebrated its 30th Anniversary in 2012.

A year-long series of celebrations came to a close in the clubhouse on the 20th of December where almost 200 members, mentors and friends turned out to close the year.

Special guests were the club’s five All Ireland winners from the 2012 season.

Donal Gormley and

Robbie Gaughan won All Ireland Minor Football medals with Dublin in September while Maria Kenny, Shauna Garvin and Laura O’Curr y won All Ireland Ladies Minor Football medals in August, also with Dublin.

If that was not enough, the club’s own Fintan O’Curry was the victorious manager of the ladies panel.

Peadar O’Shea, the club chairman reflected on this wonderful achievement for the players and commented on

the pride which all club members could feel on reaching this milestone.

“It further underlines the massive progress which the club has made since its founding 30 years ago,” said O’Shea.

“This has seen the development of a wonderful clubhouse facility on the Grange Road and an all-weather pitch in partnership with Ballinteer Community School.

“Our clubhouse is a hive of local activity throughout the year whether this is christenings, 18ths, 21sts and

many other events.

“It is also used by many schools and local organisations for meetings and celebrations which make Ballinteer St Johns GAA club a cornerstone of the Ballinteer Dundrum Churchtown area in all sorts of ways.

“Bingo on Monday night reaches out to a broad cross section across our community, while music on Tuesday and Wednesdays, and music and Lotto on Thursday nights are firm favourites with members and visitors

Donal Gormley, Shauna Garvin, Maria Kenny, Robbie Gaughan and Laura O’Curry show off the silverware they collected last year

alike.

“Of course the centrepiece of the club is our games – football, camogie and hurling. Our games

attract players as young as five and there are still people playing well into their senior years.

“Our games nurs-

ery caters for children from the ages of five to eight years old and runs every Saturday morning at Broadford.”