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27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017

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WISHING ALL OUR READERS A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR

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Mount Merrion delight as Union Cafe plans halted An Bord Pleanala upholds council’s decision to reject controversial build

 EMMA NOLAN VICTORY has been declared for Mount Merrion locals as the widely-condemned Union Cafe development has been given the red light.

After being refused plan-

ning permission by the county, the developer – Greg Kavanagh – appealed to An Bord Pleanala, who upheld the council’s initial decision.

The Mount Merrion Residents’ Association group say that they are happy with this

“good news”.

The proposed development – a mixed retail and residential apartment scheme – was considered by the council’s planning department, who refused to grant it planning permission.

Grounds for refusal included its scale, siting, layout, bulk and height of the development, which it found would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

Continued on Page 4

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COURTS | HOTEL STAFF MENACED BY ANGRY GUEST OVER DRUG

Bag of ‘weed’ led to threat to stab man A MAN who threatened to kill hotel staff who found cannabis “weed” in his room is now in rehab and will not be jailed if he continues to make good progress, a judge has said.

Keith Byrne (32), of Ballyogan Lawn, Ballyogan, Carrickmines, who has 44 previous convictions, made threats to staff members and told them: “I have a barrister on speed dial.”

Byrne pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of cannabis herb valued at €300 and making threats to kill or cause serious harm to staff at Bewleys Hotel, Sandyford on February 15, 2014.

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‘When Byrne discovered the staff member had the bag of cannabis herb, he produced a screwdriver and threatened to stab the man’

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Judge Melanie Greally noted Byrne was now in a residential rehabilitation program at New Hope in Tallaght, where he was making good progress.

She adjourned the matter to October 3, 2017 on a number of conditions.

She said if he continued to make strides in treatment and engage in services, she would then deal with the matter in a non-custodial way.

On the last court date in October, Garda Sean Balfe told Sinead McMullen BL, prosecuting, that night staff had observed different people coming and going from a particular room in the hotel.

At about 2am, Byrne, a guest in that room, and another man came down to the lobby.

When staff said the second man had to remain in the lobby as he was not

a guest, Byrne became abusive. When asked by a staff member to calm down, Byrne responded by saying he would slit him “from ear to ear”.

“My sister is a solicitor and I have a barrister on speed dial,” he told staff.

He then told staff his girlfriend was ill in the room and a staff member went upstairs to check.

A woman answered the door and he asked her to come downstairs. The staff member saw a large bag which seemed to contain “weed” and brought the bag downstairs.

Downstairs, Byrne was overheard saying gardai were on the way and telling someone to get the “stuff from under the bed.”

Byrne then told a staff member that he would murder him.

When Byrne discovered the staff member had the

bag of cannabis herb, he produced a screwdriver and threatened to stab the man. He then fled the scene.

In garda interviews, Byrne took responsibility for the drugs and said he was trying to get rid of them in a “quick sale”.

He accepted he had been in an argument with staff members.

The court heard one staff member has since left his job and the second staff member did not wish to make a victim impact statement.

Barry Ward BL, defending, said Byrne was now free from any substance abuse. He submitted that this was a drug-fuelled event but that Byrne’s recent engagement with rehabilitation has been “exemplary”.

He said Byrne had a difficult family background.

FASTNews

Clubs urged to apply for share of €30m funding THE Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross, has announced that €30m is being made available under the Sports Capital Programme to develop sports infrastructure around the country.

Online applications will be accepted from January 24 to February 24 next.

Clubs need to have registered in advance of this date, and Minister Ross encouraged clubs to do so now.

The guide to making an application was also published on the Department’s Sports Capital Programme website, at www.sportscapitalprogramme.ie.

Minister Ross said: “I am delighted that this funding is being made available. The Sports Capital Programme aims to foster an integrated and planned approach to developing sport and recreation facilities.

“It has transformed the sporting landscape of Ireland, with improvements in the quality and quantity of sporting facilities in virtually every village, town and city in the country, as well as my own constituency of Dublin Rathdown.

“The new €30m programme provides an opportunity for further improvements and I would urge all organisations with a suitable project to consider making an application.”

Cool company has warm praise for business support

Annalise is simply the best – official RATHFARNHAM woman Annalise Murphy added yet another accolade to round off a terrific year when she was crowned the Irish Times Sport Ireland Sportswoman of the Year in a glittering ceremony at The Shelbourne Hotel.

The sailor made quite a splash in Irish sporting circles with her Silver success in Rio at the Olympic Games, with the 26-year-old showing true sportsmanship in turning fourth place at the London Olympics four years ago into a Silver medal at Rio. SEE REPORT – SPORT, PAGE 30

THE runner up in the Best Start-up category of this year’s Irish Best Young Entrepreneur awards in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown has hailed the support he received from the local enterprise office (LEO).

Caolan Cullen (right), of Arctic Stone Ice Cream, said: “The Local Enterprise Office were fantastic during the awards. I have so much respect for them – the whole setup was brilliant. They are so accommodating and helpful for new businesses.

“They will help you through the process because that’s why they are there – to support you with all the services they have. You’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain.”

Arctic Stone Ice Cream makes flash-frozen ice cream on cooking plates set to a temperature of -30C, with customers choosing a range of fillings to mix with the signature recipe ice cream.

For information on DLR LEO supports, call 01 204 7083, or see www.localenterprise.ie/DLR.

27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 3

BREAKING MUSE | THE INSPIRATION FOR STEVE EARLE’S SMASH HIT ‘GALWAY GIRL’ IS A DUB!

Her hair was black and her county is BLUE  SYLVIA POWNALL

THE woman who inspired the song, The Galway Girl, is in fact from Howth in Co Dublin, a new book reveals.

Trad musician Joyce Redmond has been identified as the muse behind the Steve Earle song, which was covered

by Mundy.

A talented singer and bodhran player, the brunette Dubliner was a regular at folk sessions around Galway city.

She was in Quay Street when US songwriter Earle approached her and asked if she could help with a phone call he was trying to make.

A few days later, she met him again by accident on Dominick Street – and he asked if

she knew where he could find some traditional Irish music.

She took him along to a few sessions and he was impressed enough to pen his top-selling hit. The revelation is just one of many in On Raglan Road: Great Irish Love Songs and The Women Who Inspired Them, written by Galwaybased poet, Gerry Hanberry.

The comprehensive book is inspired by a biography on Leonard Cohen, where Hanberry read that Marianne and Suzanne – the women in two iconic Cohen songs – were real, as opposed to muses.

He said: “It was easy enough to research the dead writers featured in the book but the contemporary people had to be honest with me. A few

Steve Earle’s classic song, The Galway Girl, was actually inspired by a Dubliner – Joyce Redmond

were reluctant to talk about past loves and situations that inspired their songs, but most were forthcoming.”

He says that the story of The Galway Girl is one of the selling points of his book, which goes as far back as the

17th century.

Steve Earle didn’t actually meet Joyce Redmond on a stroll on the Old Long Walk in Galway as the song suggests – in fact, they met in a coffee shop nearby.

“Steve had a relation-

ship with Joyce for a few months,” says Hanberry.

“They’re in contact, and whenever he comes to Ireland to perform, her name is on the guest list.”

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CARRICKMINES | CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SUSPECTED AS CAUSE OF HOUSE FIRE

Council rehouses family after home lost to blaze  AISLING KENNEDY A FAMILY living in Ballyogan Crescent in Carrickmines were rescued from their home last week after their house caught fire suddenly.

Gardai and the Dublin Fire Brigade were called to the house on Tues-

day night, staying into Wednesday morning, and tackled the fire as quickly as they could.

There were five people in the house at the time of the fire – two adults and three children.

A spokesperson for Dublin Fire Brigade said that everybody was out

of the house by the time they arrived on the scene, and added that the fire crew managed to get the blaze under control.

A man in his 50s was brought to hospital following the fire. He required treatment for minor inju-ries.

The cause of the fire is

not yet known; however, Gardai are not treating it as suspicious.

One theor y being explored is that it was caused by an electrical fault, possibly as a result of Christmas lights that were hanging on the front of the house.

A spokesperson for An Garda Siochana said: “The scene was preserved for technical examination but, at this stage, the incident does not appear to be suspicious.”

Cllr Chris Curran (SF) told The Gazette that the family are devastated by the fire in the run up to Christmas, but he com-

PLANNING

‘David has defeated Goliath’ in Mount Merrion Continued from Page 1

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‘I believe the family will be rehomed this week, which is great, and I would like to extend my thanks to the council for helping the family so quickly’ ---------------------------------------------------------

Cllr Chris Curran (SF)

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mended Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council for acting swiftly.

He said: “I believe the family will be rehomed this week, which is great, and I would like to extend my thanks to the council for helping the family so quickly.

“This is a terrible time

of year to have something like this happen.”

Cllr Curran also appealed to his constituents to always err on the side of caution and to always plug out Christmas tree lights or any kind of electrical appliances overnight throughout the Christmas period.

Book of condolences opened for Berlin lorry death victims FOLLOWING the deaths of several Christmas shoppers in Berlin in what is believed to have been a terrorist attack, Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has opened a Book of Condolences at County Hall, in Dun Laoghaire.

An Cathaoirleach, Cormac Devlin (FF) was joined by Herr Josef Reichhardt, Deputy Head of Mission, Germany Embassy in Ireland, for the formal opening of the book, with Cllr Devlin expressing his condolences to the citizens of Berlin on behalf of the people of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown.

The book may be signed between 9am to 5pm, Monday to Thursday, or on Friday from 9am to 4.30pm (with the council’s weekday Christmas closures including December 26 and 27, and January 2). A message may also be left online at the council’s website, www.dlrcoco.ie.

S p o ke s p e r s o n f o r the group, Tom Fahey, thanked his neighbours for their support.

Nearly 340 residents objected to the plans because they were “wrong for Mount Merrion and for most residents”.

Fahey said: “We believe that most residents would support an appropriate redevelopment of that site; [one] which takes account the concerns and aspirations of local residents.”

Locals say that they are not against developments in the area as long as they are “suitable for the area and fit in with the community”.

Local TD and Minister for Transport Shane Ross welcomed the decision, along with Cllr Deirdre Donnelly (Ind).

Recognition Minister Ross said: “I am heartened the An Bord Pleanala decision recognised that the proposal would detract from the area.”

Cllr Donnelly added: “The size of the proposed retail outlet was too big for the area.”

Local TD and resident Josepha Madigan (FG) said the Bord’s decision is a “victory” for locals, and also added that the development was “simply not in keeping with the local community”.

She said: “The proposed development, of 15,800sq m, would have dominated the landscape in Mount Merrion and significantly altered the character of a mature neighbourhood of family homes.

“It is fantastic to see that a strong campaign, where an active residents’ association has worked closely with public representatives, has borne fruit – David has defeated Goliath.”

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Out and About

Above: Student organiser Sam Hogan and Kate Russia. Left: Principal Kevin Harrington mixing up the punch.

Pictures: STEPHEN FLEMING

Past teachers Mary Hannon and Liz

Teacher James Kelleher, Principal Ber O’Sullivan and Deputy

O’Coleman

Principal Fergal Harrington from Oatlands Primary School

Fundraising event is a piece of cake T

HERE was an amazing array of tasty treats on offer when Stillorgan College held a bake sale in aid of Pieta House. Cakes, cookies,

buns, muffins, pies and biscuits were snapped up by a hungry public who came out in large numbers to show their support for this worthy cause.

Jonas Kristian, Albert Makara and Nick Somers

Joseph, Anthony and John Quinn

Katie Byrne, Maria Byrne from Pieta House and Lorna Gibbons

Principal Kevin Harrington with 2FM DJ Keith Walsh

Pat Loughnane and Aimee Kenny

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Out and About

Festive fun at a Christmas lunch T

HE Talbot Hotel in Stillorgan played host to the senior citizens of Blackrock, Stillorgan and Dundrum Christmas lunch which was organised by community policing members. Refreshments, prizes and a chat and dance were on offer and great craic was had by all. The Garda Band attended and provided entertainment on the day.

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Stay bright for all of the winter days still ahead, advises council

FASTNews

Local TaxAssist work adds up to a top award

AN CATHAOIRLEACH Cormac Devlin was delighted to join pupils from Dominican Convent School in Dun Laoghaire, as well as members of An Garda Siochana, to help spread an important message from the council, reminding all road users to stay bright this winter.

Cllr Devlin and his new friends distributed lots of high-visibility vests and lighting aids around Dun Laoghaire, talking to lots of locals and reminding them about the importance of being visible to other road users while out running, walking or cycling in the county. His young helpers, and the gardai, were certainly very visible in their jackets, helping to reinforce their call to be highly visible this winter. Pictures: Peter Cavanagh

TAXASSIST in Dundrum has scooped a national award.

The Main Street TaxAssist branch was recognised as the nationwide chain’s top performer at an awards ceremony, with manager Garry O’Rourke (above) saying he and his team are delighted.

“We’ve worked really hard this year and it’s great to see that paying off. I’m looking forward to working with existing and new clients in 2017,” he said.

The award was presented at TaxAssist’s annual conference in Kilashee House hotel last week.

Wins for DLR architecture

An Cathaoirleach Cllr Cormac Devlin with pupils and staff from The Dominican Primary School, Dun Laoghaire, and members of An Garda Siochana. Pictures: Peter Cavanagh

GRANTS | 74% OF APPLICANTS FOR COUNCIL SUPPORTS HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFUL

Boost for DLR region as €520k funding approved

 AISLING KENNEDY

A TOTAL of 74% of the applicants that applied for grants under the 2017 Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown (DLR) Grant Scheme were approved for funding recently.

Over €520,000 will be invested back into the area

by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.

Under Round 1 of the 2017 DLR Grant Scheme, 399 applications were received and reviewed by the council.

Cllr Peter O’Brien (Lab) told The Gazette: “This a great news story for the whole area.

“Over €520,000 will now be invested in making our area an even better place to live and work.

“74% of applications were successful across a number of categories, including the AgeFriendly support grant, arts grants, community grants, sports grants, environment grants, event grants, business grants and heritage grants.

“T he majority of these funds are going to local community groups that are run by volunteers.

“I hope that these extra funds will go in a small way to benefit and support their already great work,” he said.

SAMUEL Beckett Civil Campus, designed

by Bucholz McEvoy Architects, has won the overall winner award at the 2016 Wood Awards.

The judges described the building as “a project that combines and integrates many facets of the art and science of wood design”.

The campus also shared joint first place in the Large Scale Buildings category, while dlr LexIcon was also a winner on the night, as it was commended in the same category.

An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Cormac Devlin, said: “The Wood Awards showcase the best use of wood in architecture and design and to receive an award ... is great recognition of how innovative the council is in its use of sustainable products.”

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GazetteGALLERY

| MEAGHERS PHARMACY AND TV3 STARS PARTY IN STYLE

Here come the girls ... Xpose’s Karen Koster, Glenda Melanie Morris

Gilson and Cassie Stokes

Ellen Leonard

Sharon Griffin

Oonagh O’Hagan, Debbie O’Donnell and Bairbre Power. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

An excellent Xpose bash at the Dylan

A

NUMBER of familiar glittering stars came along to the Xpose and Meaghers Pharmacy festive beauty banquet at the Dylan Hotel, where the TV3 stars were happy to bring some Xpose-sure to a number of Irish businesses and products. Fashionistas came from near and far for the event, with treats from Meaghers Pharmacy, The Intercontinental, Lily O’Briens and the Amy Huberman collection from Newbridge Silverwear adding to the festive feeling at the stylish hotel.

27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017 GAZETTE 13

DON’SDUBLIN

Trio had all the write stuff to make Dublin a literary landmark

DUBLIN is famous for many things, and over its thousand-year history its most famous contribution has been to the written word, with its three native-born Nobel Laureates for Literature giving it a unique place in history.

William Butler Yeats (1865-1939) was born in Sandymount and is considered one of the foremost writers of the 20th century.

He studied in London and spent summer holidays with his maternal grandparents in Sligo – a place that he often wrote about.

With Lady Augusta Gregory, he established the Abbey Theatre, and he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1923 that cited his “inspired poetry, which in a highly artistic form gives expression to the spirit of a whole nation”.

George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950) was born in No 33, Synge Street, and went to London where he worked as a theatre critic.

He is best known as a playwright, with Pygmalion being his most famous piece. In 1938 a film version of Pygmalion was produced in Hollywood, where it won an Oscar for Best Screenplay.

He was the first person to have won both a Nobel Prize for Literature (1925) and an Oscar.

Samuel Beckett (1913-1989) was born in Foxrock and studied in Trinity College.

A keen sportsman, he is the only Nobel Laureate to have played first class cricket, having featured in two matches against Northamptonshire.

During World War Two, he fought with the French Resistance and was awarded the Croix de Guerre and described his efforts, rather humbly, as “boy scout stuff”.

He met James Joyce in Paris in the 1930s and had begun writing before the war began.

In 1949, his bleak absurdist play, Waiting for Godot, was well-received in Paris. When the play was first performed in London in 1955, it was voted “the most significant English language play of the 20th century”.

He was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1969 “for his writing, which – in new forms for the novel and drama – in the destitution of modern man acquires its elevation”.

Don Cameron

www.donsdublin.wordpress.com

William Butler Yeats, George Bernard Shaw and Samuel Beckett – Ireland’s literary giants

Your next GAZETTE

YOUR favourite local paper is taking a Christmas break – but don’t worry, we’ll be back soon! In the meantime, enjoy this special double edition, and your next great Gazette will be out on Thursday, January 5. We’ll see you then, and we wish a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all!

GAZETTE

14 GAZETTE 27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS

Three new partners for McEvoy are announced  EMMA NOLAN

Little Learners - Best Service Business 2016

Best Wholesale Manufacturing Business 2016 Creation Station

Coaching and mentoring wins for Dublin businesses TWO Dublin business owners have won awards at the ActionCOACH Business Excellence Awards 2016 last week.

Rathcoole based Business man, Eamonn Elders of Creation Station, picked up an award for Best Wholesale/Manufacturing Business and Nessa McNamara from Little Learners Pre-School and After-School in Drumcondra Best Service Business 2016 for the 2nd year in a row.

Pictured with Eamonn and Nessa is Paul Fagan, MD ActionCOACH Business Coaching and local Business Coach Rory Smyth from ActionCOACH Business Coaching.

Both Nessa and Eamonn picked up these award in recognition of the strong performance and growth of their businesses in 2016 in each of their respective industries.

ActionCOACH Business Coaching is the largest business coaching, mentoring and training organisation in the country.

MCEVOY Partners has announced the appointment of three new partners to its corporate and property divisions.

Susan Noone and Edel Conway have been appointed to the corporate group and John Burke has been announced new partner within the property division.

T he three newly appointed partners have combined experience of over 50 years.

Susan has over 13 years’ experience as a qualified solicitor, specialising in corporate law. Susan’s focus is primarily on corporate reorganisations, mergers and acquisitions, general commercial contracts and corporate governance. She also advises in employment matters covering an extensive range of areas.

Edel has over 15 years’ experience as a qualified solicitor, specialising in corporate finance, with particular experience in public takeovers and mergers, flotations and secondary share issues, demergers and joint ventures. Edel is a graduate of Harvard Law School.

John has over 25 years’ experience as a qualified solicitor, dealing with the full range of commercial property matters, including large scale acquisitions, acting for both landlords and tenants on commercial leases, property aspects of mergers, acquisitions and business re-structuring and all types of property investment.

John has significant experience in acquiring assets from bank-appointed receivers and from vendors and landlords whose borrowings have transferred to NAMA, as well as acting for receivers in disposals of assets.

Speaking about the recent appointments, June Hynes, Partner of McEvoy Partners commented:“We are pleased to appoint Susan, Edel and John as Partners in our corporate and property groups respectively.

Each of these individuals has a wealth of experience and expertise in their areas and will bring a fresh energy as well as the highest standard of service to all clients, big and small.

We look forward to making more announcements in the near future as our firm continues to expand.”

Newly appointed partners Susan Noone, John Burke and Edel Conway and back (L-R ) founding partner Orlaith O’Brien and June Hynes

Listoke Gin set to conquer New York THE team at Listoke Distillery have spent six months developing and refining Listoke 1777 gin. It’s taste comes from a unique combination of inspiring botanicals growing in the Edwardian walled gardens at Listoke estate. They’ve settled upon a recipe that we hope both gin aficionados and newcomers to the wonderful world of gin will enjoy.

There have always been beguiling barn owls in the stable building at Listoke, which is now the distillery and it is in homage to these owls that we have wrapped one around our bottle of Listoke 1777 gin. Our recommended serve - is a glass full of ice, a fresh twist of orange, and premium tonic and a toast to life.

We have a long history of distilling and brewing within our family going back to 1777 with the Steins in Scotland when the first “white whiskey” was sent to London to make gin.

Already available in many bars and restaurants around the north East and Dublin, Listoke 1777 is destined for the shores of New York early next year.

Listoke distillery boasts the only gin school in Ireland. They have 12 “stations” each with their individual copper pot still for theirparticipants to design, develop and distil their own bottle of gin – in one afternoon ready to bring home!

Commonly-made interview mistakes and top tips to combat them INTERVIEWS are a stressful environment and can cause even the most prepared of candidates to stumble.

Whether it’s an unpredicted question popping up or suffering a mind blank, interviews can catch the best of us out!

Osborne CEO and owner, Shona McManus, explains ‘The majority of candidates find interviews very daunting and as a result I see a number of easily prevented mistakes reoccurring’.

Here’s Osborne’s five commonly made interview mistakes to avoid

1. Being unprepared!

Preparation is key. Confidently knowing the company, the role and your CV inside out is essential. The lack of preparation can plant a seed of doubt in the mind of the interviewer, as the candidate may come across as uninterested in the position.

2. Not anticipating the biggest weakness question! ‘What is your biggest weakness?’

This is a mainstay of the modern job interview. Be ready for it! When interviewees are asked about their weaknesses, they often make the mistake of focusing on the negative as

opposed to talking about something that can be turned into a positive.

The interviewee should identify one aspect of the job spec that they need to improve on and offer a solution on how this can be developed, as well as giving examples of previous similar situations and the new skills they learned as a result.

3. Not knowing the job spec.

It is vital to read the job spec in detail, specifically looking at the professional competencies. Interviewees should take time to research the interviewer and their role within

the company. This can often offer an insight into the direction the interview will take.

4. Not having examples to refer to In preparing for an interview, it is worthwhile devising suitable responses to example-led questions that might be asked to demonstrate suitability and the experience required, as outlined in the job spec. Use the STAR technique (situation, task, action and result) when answering “tell me about a time when you…”. The interviewer will be looking to gauge a number of

attributes, including communication ability, attitude and ability to build relationships.

5. Asking about salary If a candidate asks about what they will be paid at an interview, the interviewer’s thought process will be that they are only interested in money and not the job or the company. It’s a black mark straight away.

If the interviewer does bring up the subject of pay, be realistic. Interviewees should understand their worth in the market and not outprice themselves.

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MOTORING P20

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

FOOD P22

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GAZETTE

GIFTS P18

AMAZING ANNIE WILL CHARM YOU

OUR Dog of the Week is Annie, a two-yearold Belgian Shepherd Malinois who has brains as well as beauty and is very clever.

Annie particularly loves clicker training and scent games. She is looking for a home with adopters who can manage her superhigh energy levels and dedicate plenty of time to keeping her busy and entertained.

She would prefer to be the only pet in an adult only-home. If you are into agility, tracking or even doggie dancing, this super smart dog could be your dream pet!

If you can be Annie’s #SpecialSomeone*, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website, www.dogstrust. ie. You can also find them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE. Dogs Trust are asking members of the public to support their Christmas Campaign, #StopKeepingMum; for full info see www. stopkeepingmum.com.

The production has played to sold-out houses all over the world , from London to Paris and Berlin, from Sydney to Tokyo.

BORD GAIS ENERGY THEATRE: JOEY MCKNEELY’S AWARD-WINNING SHOW

American classic comes to town  IAN BEGLEY

PROVOCATIVE finger snapping of street gangs, Puerto Rican girls’ whirling skirts on New York City’s flat roofs, derelict West Side back yards – just a few notes of Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story.

Joey McKneely’s award-winning show, comes to Bord Gais Energy Theatre from January 18 to 21 as part of a global tour.

The production has played to soldout houses all over the world, from London to Paris and Berlin, from Sydney to Tokyo. It was nominated for London’s renowned theatre prize, the Laurence Olivier Award, and awarded two Theatregoers’ Choice Awards in 2009.

With ground breaking choreography by the legendary Jerome Robbins, book

by Arthur Laurents, an unforgettable score by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics

by Stephen Sondheim, West Side Story changed the face of musical theatre for ever.

The show is packed with unforgettable songs including Maria, Tonight, Somewhere, America and I Feel Pretty, this production of West Side Story has been described as “one of the towering achievements of musical theatre of the last century”.

Now Joey McKneely’s vibrant stage production of the classic dance musical returns to Ireland after international sellout success.

The idea of creating a modernization of the tragic conflicts in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet was first conceived by the enterprising dancer, choreographer

and up-and-coming director Jerome Robbins, when he was asked by his friend the actor Montgomery Clift for help in interpreting the role of “Romeo” in a fresh way.

The concept thus engendered, in which he had transformed the original family feud into a teenage gang war in a slum district of New York, took a firm hold upon Robbins. His dream was to collaborate in a team made up of some of the greatest talents in the music and theatre world, to create a new and individual work for the stage which would be as vanguard as it was commercial.

In December, 1958, the curtain was raised on the first European premiere of West Side Story at Her Majesty’s Theatre in the West End of London. The audience raved, the critics were carried away.

The work was performed 10,39 times. In London, the masterpiece was given the tribute it deserved, and here it was immediately realized that “the musical” would never again be the same as it had been before.

In the legendary film version of West Side Story, too, Jerome Robbins found the perfect setting for his matchless choreography. Awarded ten Oscars in 1961, this movie is among those that have received the most awards in the entire history of Hollywood. Since then, this unique musical has been interpreted and staged innumerable times – and no production has ever been able to equal the original Broadway classic.

Tickets are priced from €20 - €65. For more information, visit www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie.

27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017 GAZETTE 17

BUS Eireann has announced its timetables for Christmas and New Year, confirming enhanced services nationwide over the festive season.

Bus Eireann will operate extra Nightrider late night services from Dublin to Balbriggan, Drogheda, Ratoath, Dunshaughlin, Navan, Naas, Newbridge, Sallins and Clane over the Christmas period.

The company will also be operating a 24hr service on our Route 109A: Kells – Navan – Ratoath – Ashbourne – Dublin Airport – City Centre route.

In the Cork area, Bus Eireann will provide late night services at weekends in the run-up to Christmas from Cork city to Carrigaline, Ballincollig, Midleton and Bandon.

The services will operate from Cork city centre on Friday 16 and Saturday 17, Thursday 22 and Friday, December 23.

City services in Cork, Galway and Limerick will operate a Sunday timetable on December 26 and a limited service will operate in Waterford city.

All details can be found at www.buseireann.ie.

BORD GAIS SEEK THEATRE TALENT WITH Christmas just around the corner and school show season in full swing, Bord Gais Energy is encouraging schools and students in Dublin, who have put on a play, concert or musical during the festive season, to enter the Bord Gais Energy Student Theatre Awards.

This is the fourth year of the highly successful Awards which are open to primary and secondary school students around Ireland.

Shortlisted schools will be invited to a special awards ceremony at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre on May 17, 2017. Some schools will even get the chance to perform on Ireland’s largest theatre stage, making it a memorable experience they won’t forget. Winning schools will share a prize fund, and receive a commemorative trophy, picture and plaque for their school.

The deadline for entries in all production catego-

DIARY

GAZETTE

DUBLINLIFE Getting around for the holidays just got SO much easier ries is January 27 and the deadline for entries in the written categories is February 10. Visit bgesta.ie for more information.

GREEN UP YOUR CHRISTMASSEASON THE Eastern-Midlands Regional Waste Office has put together a handy guide to greening your Christmas to help reduce or reuse your waste at Christmas time.

Between food and wrapping paper, household waste increases by about one-third over the festive period.

“Cutting down on waste at Christmas doesn’t have to mean cutting down on enjoyment but a Greener Christmas probably will reduce your costs and possibly make for a less stressful holiday,” said Hugh Coughlan, the Regional Waste Office coordinator, “Having a Green Christmas means you can be both naughty and nice!”

Some tips include: Ensure waste is put in the correct bins – green bin for wrapping paper, paper plates etc; brown bin for any unavoidable

Robyn (2) and Jude (5) pictured with their mum, Sarah McGovern, at the launch of Bus Eireann’s Christmas and New Year timetables. Picture: MAXWELLPHOTOGRAPHY.IE

food waste (including those unwanted Brussels sprouts!)

Instead of Christmas cards, a growing trend is to send e-cards or post a festive greeting on social media then make use of the extra cash by donating to a charity of your choice For more tips on having a Green Christmas, see www.emwr.ie

WIN A PRIZE FOR POSTCARD ARTWORK THE Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation is calling for artists to participate in its 2017 arts initiative entitled Incognito.

Artists are being asked to create a postcard-sized piece of art, or two, by the February 1 deadline, to raise funds for the children’s charity.

The plan is that 1,500 postcard-sized works of art will be exhibited at the Solomon Gallery in Dublin in April 2016, for sale for €50 each (following a public viewing online).

The artists’ names, some very well-known, will remain incognito until the card is purchased and the artist’s signature is revealed on the back of the card.

It is hoped that this visual arts initiative will raise €75,000 for Jack & Jill, which will be used to fund home nursing-care for children with severe development delay as a result of brain damage, children who may never paint a picture themselves, but precious children who do better at home, where they are well cared for by

their parents with critical support from Jack & Jill nurses.

Details are available now on www.incognito. ie and www.jackandjill.ie.

REACHING OUT TO THE ELDERLY URGED ALONE, the charity that supports older people to age at home, is asking members of the public to reach out to the older members of their community this Christmas and offer support to those who may be lonely or isolated.

The charity say that there are a number of ways that the public can help an older person this Christmas. These include; calling by an older persons house to say hello, ensuring they have enough food, medi-

cation and heat, bringing them out for a drive or to a social event and giving them a hand with their shopping.

As part of this year’s Christmas Campaign, ALONE is also urging older people not to be afraid to ask for the care and support they deserve and are entitled to.

This Christmas Day, ALONE’s volunteers will bring hot Christmas dinners to over 100 older people living on their own.

For those who have concerns about their own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of an older person in their community, ALONE can be contacted on (01) 679 1032. To make a donation and help aid ALONE’s work this Christmastime visit www.alone.ie

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18 GAZETTE DEC 27 2016 - JAN 4 2017

ADUBLINCHRISTMAS

Giveaway winners Congratulations to the winners of our 12 Days Of Christmas giveaway. The response was amazing and don’t forgot to keep an eye out for loads more great giveaways in the New Year!

WIN

THE DUBLIN Christmas tradition that is FUNDERLAND kicked off at the RDS earlier this month and as these photos show, kids and adults alike had a blast at the Grand Opening.

If you haven’t been yet, fear not, because we have TEN pairs of FREE passes for Funderland to give away to our readers.

All you have to do is like and Share our Funderland post on our Facebook page. And hurry, folks – the competition closes on Jan 3...

from Blanchardstown.

WINNER: Jacqueline Emmett ing her prize.

Pictured is her son Sean receiv

Get to the ice rink in Dundrum

WINNER: Mary Phelan.

Pictured is her son Sean receiving her prize.

ed is WINNER: Mags O’Brien. Pictur son nd gra her daughter Leona and Paul accepting the prize.

DUNDRUM on Ice is proving a big hit with young and old and what’s not to love!

Get down to the Town Centre and with the famhave some ily, or if you’re winter fun based on the

Northside, visit Swords on Ice at the Pavilions.

27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017 GAZETTE 19

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DUBLINLIFE

Who will pay for driverless car crashes?

AS we move toward the arrival of drive r l e s s c a r, i t h a s become necessar y that cars of the future will need to collect data so that insurers can determine who or what was in control of the vehicle at the time, the driver or the car, according to a new UK report from Thatchem Research, which is the UK’s only insurer funded automotive research centre.

Thatchem claims that one of the key challenges for the future of automated driving will be determining where liability rests in the event of an accident with an automated car. A crucial part of making sure claims are settled fairly will be to understand who was in control of the vehicle at the time of the accident.

British insurers are working on efforts to have a standard set of data agreed at an international level which would be easily accessible in the event of an accident involving a highly automated vehicle.

This would include an indication of whether the vehicle was operating autonomously or not, and what technology was in use.

Thatchem believes that this data would be used to establish liability for anything that had gone wrong, inform emergency ser vices’ investigations, ensure insurance claims could be processed promptly a n d h e l p ve h i cl e manufacturers improve their products.

A Korean cracker The new Kia Niro is Kia’s first hybrid car for the Irish market.

Prices start at €29,095 for the entry model on 16in alloy wheels.

Hybrid cars have been seamlessly slipping into the national car fleet with numbers almost doubling in the last year.

Enter the new Kia Niro with a smart new look and hints of a crossover coupled with a thrifty hybrid drive system.

Michael Moroney gives the low-down on the Korean brand’s first hybrid KIA’S first hybrid, the new Niro gives a hint towards a crossover design even if it’s not intended for anything other than tarmac driving.

This compact estate type car sits proud with a little more roof height than you would expect, while still meeting Kia’s target of being aerodynamic to given good fuel efficiency.

The Niro gives Kia a new model segment in terms of its size being smaller than the new Sportage while having a larger footprint than the cee’d hatchback. These features alone give it identity of its own. Then add Kia’s first hybrid drive system and the Niro becomes a little more special.

I’ve had the Niro out and about with some lengthy country driving in addition to a city commute. The feeling is one of a spacious smaller car with a good level of economy from its petrol/hybrid engine.

Kia uses its existing Kappa 1.6-litre petrol engine as the main power source for the Niro and this is a smooth performer.

This engine uses a new exhaust heat recovery system, which speeds engine warm-up by routing coolant to a heat exchanger in the exhaust system, saving fuel. The hybrid drive system then extends the range of the car without having to pull in to tank up.

When I got into the Niro the car’s range was rated for 783km and I almost achieved that.

The Kia quoted economy figure at 26km/litre (3.8l/100km or 74mpg) is impressive in itself. It’s nearly achievable, while being about 20% off target, which is a better real world economy figure than some of the competing diesel cars.

Out on the road the Niro four driving modes.

When starting out from a stop, the hybrid system is

in the launch mode and relies entirely on power from the electric motor.

This helps reduce fuel use in stop and-go traffic.

As you begin to accelerate mildly the system also uses power exclusively from the electric motor. I found that there was adequate power for the size of the car.

When you press the pedal harder, you enter acceleration mode and here the power of the petrol engine and the electric motor are combined to get you to a more stable cruising speed.

At this steady cruising speed the system goes into power-assist mode. I found that this was close to 80-km/hr and this is where the petrol engine became the main source of power.

Like all hybrid system there is a regenerative mode where power is sent from the specially designed brakes that convert this deceleration

power into electric power to store it in the battery for the starting off mode.

From the driving seat you quickly start to develop new and possibly more environmentally conscious driving habits.

That’s no bad thing and while there is no range anxiety as you would have with a full electric car, you become more aware of how you could drive more economically.

You will notice some of the mode changes as the system is not just as refined as some of the competition, while in economy terms it is very effective. You’ll also notice the power difference when you change from the power to the eco mode on the dash button.

Eco makes sense in a Niro, good sense that is.

On the inside the control are similar to other models in the Kia range with a large centre touch screen that offers a number of functions as well

Kia Niro Hybrid

SPECIFICATIONS Engine Engine power 0 – 100km/hr Economy

Fuel Tank Capacity

CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Main Service Euro NCAP Rating Warranty

as doubles as a screen for the reversing camera. The standard leather seats are firm and long enough to give good support and good adjustment meant that I was quickly comfortable. Storage spaces are a little tight and could be bigger for what is designed to be an economical family commuter car.

The boot is adequate for a car of its size and thankfully Kia are fitting a

1.6 litre 141hp 11.1 seconds 26km/litre (3.8l/100km or 74mpg)

45 litres 88g/km A2 €180 20,000km/12 months 5 star (2009) 7 years (150,000km) Entry Price €29,095

space saver spare wheel in the floor of the boot. Seat folding is easier and gives the boot significantly more load space, while rear legroom is reasonable for a car of this size.

Kia uses a foot operated parking brake in place of handbrake. I found this a little unusual because it seems retro in a car that’s packed with lots of technology. In practice it’s effective and Kia claims

27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017 GAZETTE 21

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MOTORING

BMW boost technology in new 5 Series

The Niro boot is reasonably spacious for a hybrid car, giving a load capacity of 425 litres that extends to 1,425 litres when the rear seats are lowered

that its design means a lighter mechanism that adds to the overall low weight of the Niro, even though its battery pack on its own weighs 33kg.

Kia has loaded on the safety features in the new Niro and they claim that using new high strength steel on 53% of the Niro’s body structure gives more security at lower weight.

Kia is using aluminium for the bonnet, boot door assembly, front bumper back beam and several chassis elements, including front knuckles, front lower arms and brake callipers, all to lower the Niro’s weight.

The Niro comes with seven airbags as it has airbags for driver and front passenger, driver knee, first row side airbags, and first and second row curtain airbags. ISOFIX child-seat points are fitted as standard to the second row of seats. Kia expects that the Niro will come through the Euro NCAP crash tests with high marks.

That’s because they are fitting the Kia Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system as standard along with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and electric motor-driven power steering.

Kia is offering a selec-

tion of its DRiVE WISE Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as options for the Niro. These options include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, Smart Cruise Control (SCC), which automatically adjusts the Niro’s speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front and Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS).

Other safety options include Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) to detect the position of the car in relation to lane markings and to correct the steering line, as well as Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which warns against other cars driving behind the Niro in car parks while reversing.

The entr y price is €29,095 rising by €700 to the higher specification ADAS model with the full safety package. This Niro is both economical and going to be competitive in terms of running costs with many equivalent diesel cars. Add the Kia 7 year warranty deal with a packed specification and all of a sudden the Niro Hybrid takes on a new perspective and one that’s worth looking at.

THE new BMW 5 Series is the seventh series of the range that has proved popular among Irish drivers. The new version claims to use the latest technology from within BMW to create a car that’s more refined than ever before, significantly lighter, safer, and more fuel efficient.

Prices start from €52,800 on the road.

Engines for the 5 Series come from a new generation of TwinPower Turbo engines and BMW claims that they provide performance gains while also showing advances in reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

BMW has shaved 100kg off the weight of the new 5 Series The cars will be available range for 2017 and boosted power while delivering a with new driver assistance further improvement in fuel economy technologies as the German brand also takes a notable step towards fully autonomous driving. of the 190hp four-cylinder diesel unit, which The new BMW 5 Series will launch with a helps the car to achieve a fuel consumption line-up of engines, from the benchmark 520d to of 72.4mpg, meaning joint best-in-class CO2 the all new flagship 540i. xDrive all-wheel drive emissions of 102g/km. will be offered for the first time on a 5 Series in A plug-in hybrid version of the BMW 5 Series the Irish market and is available from launch Saloon will also be launched in March in the on the 520d, 530d and 540i. form of the BMW 530e iPerformance model.

Shortly after the new 5 Series Saloon is The BMW eDrive system and a four-cylinder launched, BMW will add a further two engines petrol engine work in unison to achieve ultrato the line-up. Under the bonnet of the BMW low CO2 emissions of just 49g/km, while 520d SE EfficientDynamics model lies what generating overall output of 252hp. Fuel conBMW claims is the most efficient incarnation

sumption is claimed to be 2.1l/100km and the electric system on its own has a of up to 46 kilometres.

The new BMW 5 Series Saloon has a host of drier supports system including Dynamic Cruise Control (DCC) as standard and as options; Active Cruise Control (ACC), Speed Limit Info, Driving Assistant Plus safety package includes the Lane Keeping Assistant, Lane Departure Warning system, Lane Change Warning along with Driving Assist Plus (an evasion aid up to 155kph).

NISSAN has re-invented the Micra, one of Ireland’s favourite city cars. The new fifth generation Micra looks different than before and is claimed to have grown up in terms of size and specifications.

Nissan will be offering its Intelligent mobility system in the new small car and that brings with it intelligent emergency braking and lane departure prevention.

This new Micra has a very different design style as Nissan tried to get away from the predictable driver profile of the Micra. The design includes the distinctive V-motion grille, rear door handles hidden in the C-pillars and an extended roofline that incorporates a spoiler. Driver comfort gets more attention, with a lower driving position for what Nissan claims is a more secure driving feel. The seat adjustment has been improved and the new Micra will come with a fully adjustable steering wheel. The new Micra will feel bigger because it sits on a longer wheelbase and with

Nissan re-invents the Micra for 2017

extra internal space Nissan claims that the interior space will be among the best in class.

One exclusive feature of the Micra will be the new six-speaker Bose personal sound system, developed through close collaboration with Nissan. The novel sound system is optimised for the driver as some speakers are built into the driver seat headrest for a remarkably immersive listening experience.

The Micra will be available with a choice of a 0.9litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine or a 1.5-litre diesel, both developing 90hp.

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DUBLINLIFE

RECIPETOTRY Siucra Fondant Salted Caramel Chews

M&S 3 Bird Roast Sausage Roll

Enjoy some ‘me’ time this weekend, preparing Siucra’s Fondant Salted Caramel Chews. These soft and chewy sweets are ideal as a homemade Christmas gift for your nearest and dearest, packaged in little gift boxes or simply some brown parchment tied with Christmas string. Using Siucra’s Roll Out Icing in this recipe allows you to create delicious fondant in a matter of minutes. Makes 24.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD 1. Line a large Swiss roll tin with parchment paper so that it hangs over the sides of the tin. Coat well with cooking spray.

2. Combine the Siúcra Caster Sugar, cream of tartar and water in a saucepan over a low heat. Whisk constantly for 5-8 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns to a clear syrup. If sugar crystals appear above the surface of the syrup, wipe down the sides of the saucepan with a damp pastry brush.

3. Raise the temperature to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, whisking until bubbles form. As soon as bubbles appear, stop stirring and leave the mixture to cook for 10-15 minutes until it turns a deep caramel colour. Keep an eye on the mixture to make sure it doesn’t burn; if it looks darker in some spots than in others, give the pan a gentle swirl to redistribute the caramel.

4. When the mixture is a rich caramel colour and a candy thermometer reaches 175˚C, remove it immediately from the heat and carefully add the cream and butter. The mixture should foam slightly.

5. When the mixture settles, stir with a silicone spatula until smooth. Return the saucepan to the heat for one minute to soften slightly.

6. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and salt. Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and leave to set at room temperature for at least two hours, or overnight if possible.

7. Knead the Siucra Roll Out Icing with the Siucra Icing Sugar and vanilla until soft. Roll out on a worktop dusted with icing sugar until thin.

8. Carefully lift the parchment and caramel out of the dish and place on the worktop.

9. Use a knife to trim the rollout icing so that it is the same size as the caramel slab. Lift the roll out icing and place on top of the caramels. Using the parchment paper as a guide, carefully begin rolling one side of the caramels over the icing, as with a Swiss roll.

Wrap the log in cling film and refrigerate for at least two hours.

10. Unwrap the log and slice into swirls.

TREATYOURSELF with M&S gourmet goodies

A chilled starter is easy to serve and frees up time in the kitchen.

Try these delicate new Scottish Smoked Salmon Souffles, €7.50 for two (200g), with triangles of brown toast to scoop out every bit. Make the toast special by spreading it with herby butter made in advance - beat chopped fresh dill into softened unsalted butter, roll up in greaseproof paper and chill.

Sugar and spice at Aldi

ALDI GINGERBREAD ICE CREAM €2.49

FOR THE FONDANT FILLING: • 1 x 454g pack of Siucra Roll Out Icing • 4 tbsp Siúcra Icing Sugar, plus extra for dusting • 1 tsp vanilla paste or vanilla extract

These creamy chocolate mousses with a chocolate truffle centre are dusted with edible gold lustre and shaped into wintery pine cones. Simply serve with a jug of cream for drizzling. (€19 for 6)

ALDI MINCE PIE ICE CREAM €2.49

FOR THE CARAMEL: • 400g Siucra Caster Sugar • 1/2 tsp cream of tartar • 250ml water • 80ml double cream, at room temperature • 45g unsalted butter, at room temperature • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 tsp flaked sea salt

ALDI 12 MONTH MATURED CHRISTMAS PUDDING €4.99

27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017 GAZETTE 23

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FOOD Celebrity & Friends cookbook to raise much needed funds for RESPECT CELEBRITY & FRIENDS a charity cook book in aid of RESPECT launched today, containing a superb collection of starters, main courses and desserts. From An Taoiseach Enda Kenny’s Black Pudding Salad to Neil Jordan’s Scallops, ‘Celebrity & Friends’ has a host of varied recipes to suit all taste buds.

The cookbook will raise much needed funds for RESPECT, the organisation responsible for fundraising for capital projects and ground-breaking research within The Daughters of Charity Disability Support Services. The book was edited by well-known food writer, Myles McWeeney, Food and Wine Editor for Social and Personal Magazine, designed by Aidan O’Connor and Jenni Hedderman and printed by Paul Bolger, PB Print.

Recipes are from a cross section of familiar Irish faces, from Irish TV and sports stars to personali-

ties from the silver screen and literature – including; Liam Neeson, Cathy Kelly, Kathryn Thomas and Devin Toner, to name but a few. The charity recipe book will make the perfect stocking filler this Christmas while helping raise much needed funds for the charity.

The recipe book, is available to purchase now for just €10 via RESPECT’s website, www.respect.ie or from the RESPECT Offices by calling 01 685 6502.

All funds raised from sales of the recipe book will go directly towards RESPECT’s Building Projects and Research. All the team at RESPECT work tirelessly to meet the individual needs of all their service users. The service is ultimately about helping people improve their quality of life and reach their full potential.

For more information, log onto www.respect.ie

Sr Zoe Killeen, Director of RESPECT, with Biddy McLaughlin, Writer and Chef, Joan Burton TD, Aonghus McAnally, Broadcaster and Entertainer and Naomi Gillespie, head chef at Donnybrook Fair. Picture: Matt Browne/Sportsfile

Iceland chorizo and chicken cups

Iceland Luxury Salmon and Prawn Terrines

Time for a little get-together  EMMA NOLAN Iceland Salmon and Champagne Crown

THE Irish have a bit of a siege mentality when it comes to food shopping for Christmas.

This harks back to the days when all shops would be closed for a few days over festive period. And even though some shops are open on Christmas Day for any brussel sprout related emergencies, I’m sure most of us would prefer to avoid going near any supermarkets when we want to have our feet up watching black and white movies with a box of Roses within arm’s reach.

That being said, this time of year can see a lot of impromptu gettogethers and gatherings so it’s a good idea to have some festive treats

on standby for entertaining.

That’s where Iceland comes in – their frozen party food options are perfect for popping in the oven at a moment’s notice.

Top picks include the Kanikama Luxury Sushi Platter (€12 for 800g), the Chicken Skewers with Sesame Seeds (€3.50 for 16 pack), the Mediterranean inspired Chicken and Chorizo Cups (€3.50 for €3.50) and Chinese Duck Trees (€3.50 for 12 Pack).

Sweet treats like the Twelve Mini Melt in the Middle Puddings (12 pack for €4.50) are also great and ready after a quick bing in the microwave.

So take a trip to Iceland in locations all over Dublin to have some tasty festive bits in the freezer ready to go for those unexpected guests.

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24 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017

DUBLINLIFE

TRAVEL

Go wild in Alaska Whales at play in Juneau, Alaska

 IAN BEGLEY

RELAX on the stunning Norwegian Sun cruise liner as you sail by the beautiful mountains and glaciers of Alaska on a 12-night holiday, including a seven-night, full-board cruise.

With a four-night stay before the cruise in Vancouver, you can explore this cosmopolitan city with a half-day guided tour and plenty of free time to spend at your leisure.

You will also take a ferry to Victoria, which is located on Vancouver Island, and enjoy an overnight stay in the city.

Here you can explore Victoria’s architecture, nature, gastronomy and heritage.

On board your cruise,

t h e N o r we g i a n S u n offers hot tubs, a pool, casino, a spa and much, much more.

Optional excursions at ports of call are also available to book in advance (for an extra charge) or on board the ship.

Sailing past waterfalls, thick forests and glacier tongues, you will experience the beauty of nature along some of the 24,000km-long Inside Passage, see the amazing wildlife of Juneau which is accessible only by water and air, and learn about the historical gold mining town of Skagway.

Wherever you stand as you cruise through G l a c i e r B ay, y o u ’r e guaranteed a front row view as bald eagles soar past, humpback whales

emerge above the water, mountain goats scale the steep slopes and brown bears go about their business on the shore.

You can also hear the sound of breaking ice before glaciers plunge thunderously into the sea.

An extra departure date has been added for this holiday due to demand.

Prices start from €2,789pp for 12 nights including return flights from Dublin to Vancouver (return via Heathrow), seven nights’ full board cruise, transfers and taxes and charges, with flights departing September 7, 2017 and September 14, 2017.

To book, visit www. traveldepartment.ie or call 01-6371600.

AUGUST 2017 marks 40 years since the death of Elvis Presley and what better way to pay tribute to the ‘King of Rock and Roll’ than visiting his iconic home in Memphis during ‘Elvis Week’, between August 11 to 19, 2017.

Since his death, Graceland has become like a place of worship for Elvis fans and the 14-acre estate will be hosting a week of events celebrating his life and legacy, including panel discussions, tribute artists, concerts and a candlelight vigil at the gates of Graceland. American Sky offer a number of holidays which feature an opportunity to visit Graceland, including the 12-night Southern Explorer trip.

This costs from €2,329 per person based on two sharing, departing on August 11 and includes return flights from Dublin, accommodation throughout on roomonly basis, transfers and the services of a tour guide.

Graceland has become like a place of worship for Elvis fans

50th anniversary of the Summer of Love

DUST-OFF your flower headbands and tie-dye t-shirts because San Francisco is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic Summer Of Love with a year of events and festivals in 2017. In 1967, nearly 100,000 free-spirited adventurers gathered in San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury neighbourhood The Norwegian Sun offers hot tubs, a pool, casino, a spa and much, much more

Celebrating the life and legacy of The King

to join what would become one of the most significant cultural revolutions in modern history.

Throughout 2017, the city will be hosting a number of events to pay tribute to the anniversary, such as the Haight-Ashbury Street Festival, Folsom Street Fair, Tulipmania on Pier 39 and a number of crea-

tive exhibitions. American Sky can offer a three-night stay at the three star plus Triton Hotel from €819 per person, departing in 2017. This is based on two sharing on roomonly basis and includes return flights from Dublin.

For more information and to book, visit www.americansky.ie.

27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

CINEMA ReelReviews

ROGUE ONE

Stars sparkle in prequel JUST how did the Rebels get the plans to the Death Star? That’s a question that’s kept Star Wars fans wondering for decades – now, Rogue One (Cert 12A, 95 mins) reveals the daring tale. This prequel film to the classic film will be a hit with fanboys and casual fans of the franchise alike, as the interesting side mission does the series proud. A stellar cast and decent plot make it roguishly charming.

Liam Neeson provides an enigmatic figure at the heart of the film, which despite dragging a little in parts still reaffirms director Martin Scorcese’s singular talents

SILENCE: MARTIN SCORCESE’S LATEST WILL BE WHOLLY ENGAGING FOR SOME

MOANA

Surfing on great reviews DISNEY makes quite a splash with Moana (Cert PG, 113 mins), with its plucky Polynesian princess (oh, and demigod sidekick) ignoring the usual tropes for the genre. Likeable vocal work take a back seat to some stellar graphics and animation, and while Moana and friends don’t sail completely clear of some familiar themes, it’s a fresh, vibrant and welcome film for all the family.

FANTASTIC BEASTS As the title says ...

WHILE MANY are calling it ‘the new Harry Potter film’, Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them (Cert 12A, 133 mins), set earlier in the same universe as the worldconquering wizardry series, is a decent addition to the franchise. Stepping across the pond to America, its new characters and setting will reinvigorate fans, while bringing in new ones to see our ordinary world and its magical undertones.

Quietly sing its praises A PASSION project in the works for 25 years, Silence evokes much of the thematic feeling of Scorsese’s other religious epic, The Last Temptation of Christ – and not just for its ecclesiastical subject.

Silence (Cert 12A, 161 mins), based on the 1966 novel of the same name

by Shusaku Endo, is very much preoccupied with themes of conviction and temptation and clocks in at about the same run time as the director’s controversial 1988 film, at an often arduous 161 minutes.

Still, Silence is a rewarding experience – a beautifully crafted and boldly acted story that incorporates its simple title into an integrated visual and aural aesthetic.

Silence is the dominant motif here and pertains to many aspects of the film

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

– God’s silent response to the suffering of martyrs, the silent prayers of those persecuted for their faith, the silence of priests forced to denounce their beliefs. Heavy subjects indeed; Silence is not a film for everybody.

Set in 17th Century Japan, Andrew Garfield and Adam Driver play two Por tuguese Jesuit priests, Sebastiao Rodrigues and Francisco Garrpe, who have travelled to the foreign land hoping to locate their mentor, Father Ferreira (Liam Neeson).

It is rumoured that Ferreira has denounced his

faith after facing persecution and torture.

Upon arriving in Japan, the two priests discover communities of “Hidden Christians,” forced to disguise their religion to avoid severe punishment, or death.

Rodrigues and Garrpe become near-Christ like figures to the suffering Christians, but have their own piety tested in the process.

Scorsese and cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto bring an almost chiaroscuro aesthetic to Silence – the coastal environments of Japan are heavily clouded with a dense, obscuring mist that adds a distinct sense of confusion to the “high danger” of the land and gives the film a deeply sensuous and visually satisfying sensation.

Scorsese approaches the lush greens, dark

ocean blues and “black soil” of Japan with a painterly quality that evokes Akira Kurosawa.

The film is photographed with a cold, rigid symmetry and balanced, theatrical set-up; the great Japanese director’s influence is impossible to miss here.

Kim Allen Kluge’s brilliant score often gives way to enormous passages of profound silence – the sounds of insects, wind moving through grass, heavy breathing.

Accordingly, the environment commands an overwhelming, dominating presence; throughout, there is a sense of predetermined tragedy and danger.

For all of its sumptuous visuals, Silence is often punishingly slow – particularly so once Rodrigues is set on a path of trial and temptation.

However, these lengthy passages correspond brilliantly with the film’s central themes of silence and doubt and, accordingly, there is a distinct feeling of purpose throughout.

Still, Silence can occasionally be a bit of a slog.

Silence’s more grievous elements are offset with occasional moments of quiet, sombre humour – par ticularly from Yosuku Kubozuka.

Unortunately, the film’s

later acts are let down by some often-cartoonish villainy in the form of the Japanese “Inquisitor” (Issey Ogata) – a charming performance, but one that jars awkwardly at times with the film’s predominant atmosphere.

Overall, the acting here is focused and intense – although, Driver, the better performer, is regrettably underused.

Silence will not suit all audiences, it offers no simple answers to the questions it poses and requires a certain amount of discipline. Regardless, this a truly fulfilling cinematic experience – Scorsese’s best work in a decade.

Verdict: 9/10

Co-star Adam Driver adds to his quietly impressive range of work with his role here as a Jesuit priest. Driver’s natural charisma fleshes out a reticent character in a strange land.

26 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017

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28 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017

SPORT

FastSport PARALYMPIC EXPO COMES TO SPORTS CAMPUS: PARALYMPICS Ireland, in partnership with Mondelez International, will host the Irish Paralympic Sport Expo on Saturday, January 14 2017 at the new National Indoor Arena on the National Sports Campus.

This free of charge day-long event will showcase a wide range of Paralympic sports in a bid to attract new people and potential talent into the sports, with the vast majority of Ireland’s 2016 Paralympic team set to be in attendance also.

2016 Paralympians cyclist Peter Ryan, and discus thrower Niamh McCarthy who won silver in Rio, were on hand at the National Indoor Arena to mark the announcement.

Both athletes attended a similar event held

by Paralympics Ireland post London 2012 and essentially their careers in their respective Para sports began from there.

Those interested in attending are encouraged to pre-register and doors will open at 10.30am with the event running until 4.30pm.

CYCLING: GARDA CLUB MEMBER WAS FIRST TO MEDAL ON WORLD STAGE IN 100 YEARS

Caroline to retire after epic career

 sport@dublingazette.com

GARDA cycling club’s Caroline Ryan has announced her retirement from the sport following a glittering career, representing Ireland on the international stage since 2008.

Among her highlights,

she became Ireland’s first cyclist to win a world track medal in over a century in 2012 in Melbourne, taking bronze in the points race.

She also came third at the track cycling World Cup in Aguascalientes, Mexico, in 2013. The multiple-national cham-

pion won a silver medal as a pilot for Catherine Walsh at the 2009 Paracycling Track World Championships, being the first bike to win a medal for Ireland at Paracycling world level.

Ref lecting on her career, the 37-year-old – who was formerly

Caroline Ryan has retired following a glittering career on the track

an international rower before switching to cycling – said it was the right time to step away from the international scene.

“Stepping back from a sport I love that has given me so much was always going to be a tough decision to make,” she said. “Cycling, and indeed rowing before it, became such a big part of my life and I consider myself lucky to have had a successful international sporting career in both.

“It will be hard to step away from competitive cycling and that buzz and adrenaline kick it gives you, and I will miss that, but I know that now is the right time and I leave with no regrets.

“I committed fully to sport and gave it everything while I was com-

peting. I am very proud of what I achieved and I feel that I was part of a great team that has helped forge a path for Irish track cyclists who are now continuing to compete and medal on the world stage.”

She moved into cycling from rowing as part of the talent transfer programme which opened up a new realm for her.

She also credited her coach Brian Nugent, Cycling Ireland, the Irish Institute of Sport and SINI to help her achieve the highest levels.

“It is not just the racing and results themselves but the people you get the opportunity to meet and work and compete alongside on the journey, which makes the experience of being an athlete so special.

“I couldn’t have achieved all that I have without their help. My Dad has always been a major inspiration and driving force behind my career as an elite athlete and I would like to say a special thanks to him for that.”

And Ryan adds that she will continue to play a role in the sport into the future.

“I feel that my involvement with the sport of cycling has not ended and that in the future I will be able to contribute to its advancement and success in some way.

“For now, I am looking forward to spending more time with my family and friends. The next chapter in my life is just beginning and I’m excited about what that has to bring.”

VHI and parkrun Ireland link up in five-year deal  sport@dublingazette.com

parkrun Ireland hosts around 5,000 runners every week

VHI and parkr un Ireland announced details of a new fiveyear partnership this week that will see former become the presenting partner for the initiative.

Parkrun Ireland supports local communities in organising free, weekly, timed 5k runs every Saturday morning at more than 55 venues all over Ireland, with around 5,000 people of every age and ability taking part each week.

The events are organised by more than 600 volunteers every weekend across the country.

Almost 80,000 registered participants have run more than 2.5 million kilometres at parkrun Ireland events since it started here in November 2012.

Originally launched in the UK in 2004, parkrun is the single biggest participation running event globally with nearly three million registered participants and an average of 165,000 weekly participants.

The agreement will see Vhi become the first presenting partner for parkrun Ireland, with the aim of enabling the communitybased running events to further

develop and grow.

The new partnership will also support the continued growth of new parkrun events around the country and the development of junior parkrun, which are 2k runs for four to 14-year-olds.

There are currently four junior parkrun events in Ireland and it is hoped that 2017 will see junior parkrun spread to every corner of Ireland to enhance family centred physical activity and encourage participation amongst young children.

Speaking at the partnership announcement, Declan Moran,

Director Marketing and Business Development, Vhi said, “Both organisations have strong similarities that will lead to an excellent working relationship.

“We are both committed to helping our members live longer, healthier, more positive lives and this partnership will enable us to do just that. There is no other movement like parkrun in Ireland and Vhi is very proud to be supporting this wonderful initiative encouraging people of all levels and abilities to take part in a free 5k run in a fun and positive environment.”

27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

Naglis powering toward Florida’s 2017 World Cup

FASTSport

Balrothery teenager is looking to play his part in memorable trip to the US with Ireland; he tells GazetteSport about how he got into Powerchair football and the fundraising required  JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

FOR Balrothery-based Naglis Montvilas, powerchair football has been life-changing. Born in Lithuania, the 15-yearold moved to Ireland as a toddler. Powerchair football came into his life six years ago and, initially, he wasn’t enthusiastic, but was quickly won around by his experiences playing the game.

At the turn of 2016 into 2017, he is looking forward to a big New Year with a World Cup on the horizon in Florida next July.

Powerchair football is a version of soccer that sees people who use motorised wheelchairs in their day-to-day life compete on an indoor pitch.

Ireland already has an eight-team league and a full-length season underway, promoted by the FAI. In a fast, actionpacked sport the national squad currently rank third in the world.

“It’s a little bit about exercise, but also about meeting people and just a way to do something,” Montvilas, who trains in Greystones, explained to GazetteSport.

“I learnt about it through Muscular Dystrophy Ireland, who organise the events including trips to football matches.

“When I first watched the sport, I didn’t really like it but when I started to play I changed my opinion; it’s exciting. That was six years ago. It’s been great for meeting people; a lot of the people who

play have the same traits and the same problems as I do, so it’s really useful to talk about that as well as just playing the sport.”

Looking at the progression of the sport, the 15-year-old has recently upgraded his wheelchair to a “strike force chair” which is lower to the ground and doesn’t easily tip over in a collision – an all-important part of the game.

“I love the new chair, it’s everything I wanted and it has really improved my play. I plan to travel in it to Florida, as it means only one chair needs to travel, which will make things easier. I’m quite comfortable in it.”

It’s hard to predict the winner of the sport’s third world cup, with Montvilas suggesting “the USA

Naglis Montvilas is looking forward to the 2017 World Cup. Picture: john Owens Photography

or Spain” might be the favourites, but seeing it as really hard to call as the teams rarely meet. “There are a lot of other sides to the tournament as well as the football, though,” he explains. “We’ll stay for a week, and meeting all the other players is a really big part of it.”

The trip to Florida represents Montvilas’ first

World Cup will feature sides from as far afield as Argentina, Japan and Denmark travelling for the 10-team tournament.

The Irish team are fundraising through PledgeSports, a company that works to help athletes get together the funds necessary to achieve a variety of sporting goals, recently including Dublin

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

‘It’s been great for meeting people who have the same traits and the same problems as I do’ - Naglis Montvilas

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international tournament, but will mark the third Powerchair World Cup. Team USA have taken home both of the previous two titles, but Ireland are seen as serious competitors this time around.

The game is the first competitive sport ever designed specifically for sportspeople in powered wheelchairs, allowing access to sport for a lot of people who may not otherwise be able to take part.

With the big trip in the pipeline, the Irish team have begun a major fundraising campaign aimed at raising some of the money required.

With the added expenses of travel to another continent together with the equipment necessary to play the game, international fixtures are rare, and the four-a-side teams play mostly locally. The

Skeleton athlete Brendan Doyle and his campaign to make the 2018 South Korean Winter Olympics.

The Powerchair Ireland football team estimate their total necessary funds to reach the Florida contest at €50,000, which includes the costs of accommodation, transport of chairs, travel for carers and coaches as well as players, medical and insurance costs.

Their PledgeSports fundraising targets a total of €10,000, while the team would also be interested in hearing from businesses who might consider sponsorship.

The fundraising page can be found here: www. pledgesports.org/projects/powering-teamireland-to-florida, and will remain live until early January.

Learn more about the sport at www.aipf.ie.

Finn a marquee addition to new Rovers recruits SHAMROCK Rovers made a series of eyecatching signings in the run-up to Christmas with Ronan Finn following hot on the heels of the addition of a couple of goalkeepers for the 2017 season.

Finn, pictured above with the SWAI player of the month award for April, was confirmed on December 20, switching from Dundalk after a stellar spell with the club that culminated in their run to the Europa League group stages and the retention of the League of Ireland premier division crown.

The Dubliner started in 11 of their 12 games in the Champions League and Europa League this season. His campaign concluded with a man-ofthe-match display in the FAI Cup final defeat to Cork City.

Earlier in the week, Rovers announced the signing of two new goalkeepers - Tomer Chencinski and Kevin Horgan.

Chencinski was born in Israel but grew up in Canada, earning one cap for the Canadian national team in March 2013. He played in a 2-0 defeat to Belarus in a friendly game held in Qatar.

The 32-year-old goalkeeper began his senior career with MLS side Toronto FC in 2007 without making an appearance. He had spells with two American sides, Newark Ironbound and Express Harrisburg City Islanders, either side of a short stint with Moldovan outfit Nistru Otaci.

He has also played in Finland, Sweden and Israel.

Speaking about their signings, Rovers’ Head Coach Stephen Bradley said that: “We’re delighted to sign Tomer Chencinski, we’ve been working hard on this one for the past few weeks now, and he’s a player that we’ve been really keen to get.

“He has played in a lot of good leagues and he has a lot of experience which is something we’re delighted about. He’s an international goalkeeper and a very good goalkeeper all round. He’s very comfortable on the ball at his feet, which is good. He’s a really great addition and he’ll bring a calm influence to the back four.”

GAZETTE

30 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

SAILING: ANNALISE WINS PRESTIGIOUS ANNUAL SPORTS AWARD

Matthews strikes as Loreto keep on rolling LORETO moved to within a point of Cork Harlequins in third place of the women’s EY Hockey League as they made it four wins from five games with a 2-1 success against their close rivals in the table.

It is quite the performance from the Beaufort club since promotion. They initially found life tough with one win from their first four games but have duly shown they could be a playoff contender.

Early on, Quins made the running. Naomi Carroll had one taken off the Loreto line after only a couple of minutes before giving her side the lead soon after.

Her shot on the half volley flew into the roof of the net from a tight angle. A fantastic finish from the Irish International.

Rebeccas Barry nearly doubled the lead a few minutes later. After beating the last defender, she found herself up against Louisa Healy in the Loreto goal, with the goalkeeper coming out on top.

Loreto started to come more into the game in the second quarter. Hannah Matthews found herself in space and moved the ball well, picking out some fantastic passes.

The third quarter started as the second had finished and while chances were again at a premium, Loreto slowly began to look more dangerous. Good work from Niamh Small led to their second corner which they were unable to convert.

Loreto won another corner just on the whistle at the end of the quarter. This time they took their chance with a shot from Lizzie Colvin, after a fine quarter from her, flying into the bottom left corner to make it 1-1.

The last quarter was a more even affair with both sides flooding forward at every opportunity looking for the win. It was Loreto who had the first chance of the period when they were awarded their fourth penalty corner.

After the initial shot was well saved by Emma Buckley in the Quins goal, the rebound fell to Matthews, pictured, who made no mistake in flicking the ball over the goalkeeper and into the roof of the net to make it 2-1 to the visitors.

Barry immediately had a chance at the other end to level but her reverse stick shot just firing past the angle of post and crossbar.

Annalise Murphy, centre, along with monthly winners Kellie Harrington and Jenny Egan. Picture: Nick Bradshaw

Rathfarnham’s star of 2016 sport@dublingazette.com

ANNALISE Mur phy has capped off an excellent year for the sailor after she was crowned the Irish Times Sport Ireland Sportswoman of the Year.

The 26-year-old from Rathfarnham won Olympic silver in Rio in the women’s Laser Radial last August, the first sailing medals Ireland has won since Moscow in 1980.

“It’s just so wonderful to have your achievements recognised in this way. When you hear about all the achievements of all the monthly

award winners you realise what a great place we’re in,” she said of her success.

“It’s an incredible day out to get to chat with the other women that have won awards. I really love it, it’s a pretty special day.”

She was devastated when she finished fourth in London four years ago but, while speaking to RTE after the race, she described how she used that disappointment as motivation to push on.

“It’s amazing, this time four years ago I had just finished fourth and it was the hardest day of

THE DAILY MILE Sports Partnership’s simple health concept PRIMARY schools across Dun Laoghaire Rathdown are set to participate in a new health initiative “The Daily Mile” which will improve the physical, emotional and social health and wellbeing of all children.

Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Sports Partnership, HSE Health Promotion and the Blackrock Education Centre have invited schools to participate in the simple but effective concept.

Twenty-two schools have come on board and expressions of interest can also be lodged at 01 2719502 or sportspartnership@dlrcoco.ie.

my life, but I said I was going to come back and try to get a medal. So to actually go and do it, it’s incredible.”

She performed well o v e r t h e 10 r a c e s , including winning the first, to book her place in the medal race.

She went into that final in third position but her fifth place finish pushed her up to the silver spot.

Murphy is no stranger to setting records in Ireland, having already won gold at the European sailing championships in 2013 and become the first woman to win the Irish national

championships in 2010.

The 26-year-old is no doubt a worthy winner of both the medal and her award after listening to people tell her that, due to her height, she could only realistically do well if a strong breeze was present.

“I was told the conditions in Rio didn’t really suit me and that I shouldn’t even go. I feel like I have spent the last four years talking about Rio. “T here were a lot of times when people told me to give up or I thought about giving up.

“T here were times when I came home and

said I just don’t know if I can keep on doing it.

Then I’d get up the next morning and go training.”

Murphy showed great resolve to pick herself up from previous disappointments and ignore what her ill-informed critics were saying to her.

With the amazing commitment to sailing that she possesses and the great support she now receives, there is every chance that the country could be celebrating their first ever Olympic gold in sailing when Japan 2020 comes around.

27 DEC 2016 - 4 JAN 2017 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

FOOTBALL: 30-YEAR-OLD FORMER DUB ANSWERS CALL

FASTGAA

McEntee signs off with Division 1 league title New Ballyboden St Enda’s manager John O’Brien in action for Dublin in 2009.

Boden name O’Brien as new senior boss  KARL GRAHAM

sport@dublingazette.com

B A L LY B O D E N S t E n d a ’s h ave n a m e d former Dublin footballer John O’Brien as their new manager after a thorough search for Andy McAntee’s replacement, who stepped down to take charge of the Meath county football team.

O’Brien represented Dublin at all levels up to senior, shining in the O’Byrne Cup in 2008 in 2009.

He had a delicious lef t boot seeing him score heavily for Round Tower, Clondalkin, too, with a metronomic ability to land frees.

He soon took up coaching and, despite being just 30 now, he has enjoyed roles at DIT and Meath club Curraha.

He led the latter to Meath and Leinster junior football titles last year but taking over the All-Ireland club champions who have just won the Dublin AFL1 title represents a big step up.

A step up that O’Brien is more than prepared for.

“It is fantastic to get such a big job especially with how the last couple of years have gone for the lads, winning an AllIreland and league,” he told GazetteSport.

Rollercoaster “It’s been a rollercoaster ride for the club over the last two years so to be able to come in and try to improve that is a great challenge and something I am definitely looking forward to.”

O’Brien is also fully aware of the expectations that come with one of Dublin’s biggest

clubs.

“Regardless of whether they had won something or not, I think the expectations within Ballyboden St Enda’s are always going to be big and I think you just have to take that on board and not worry about it too much because I’ll have enough to worry about in terms of selection and players.”

In appointing a young man to such an important role, the club are also demonstrating a great show of confidence in O’Brien’s ability especially considering the job would not have been short of takers.

Confidence “I’m 30 years of age and to get a job of this calibre [so young] is fantastic.

“It’s a vote of confidence in terms of my

ability where the lads can see something in what I have done previously in such a short space of time.”

O’Brien is not short of confidence in his own ability, justifiably considering what he has achieved already in his short managerial career, and he hopes that he can build on what is already a very talented bunch of lads.

“I would hope I would be able to improve the lads in terms of their ability. At this level it is about the small percentages that you can adjust to make the difference.

“These lads are AllIreland champions and league champions, so what you are trying to do is make small adjustments to what’s there and get huge benefits out of it,” O’Brien concluded.

BALLYBODEN St Enda’s gave their manager Andy McEntee the perfect send-off as Boden defeated St Jude’s 2-18 to 3-14 in a full-blooded Dublin AFL 1 final after extra-time in Parnell Park.

Jude’s looked to be heading for the winner’s enclosure in normal time after putting in a great second half but late points from Aran Waters and Conal Keaney brought the sides level, 1-15 to 2-12, and forced extra-time.

Diarmuid McLaughlin, Shane Durkin, Tom Lahiff and Ronan Cleary all exchanged points in the opening half of extra-time and there was still plenty of drama to unfold in the second period of this titanic battle.

Cleary pointed on the restart to edge Boden ahead before Sam Molony’s goal effort was eventually deemed to have crossed the line after ref James King consulted with both his umpires at the scoreboard end.

There was more to come as Jude’s were awarded a penalty in injury-time which Ross O’Brien drove to the net but the full-time whistle sounded on the kick-out as Boden finished their long season off with top-flight league honours.

In normal time Boden led 1-9 to 1-5 at half-time with Keaney kicking six points, including four frees, one superb side-line and a sublime point with the outside of his left boot from the left wing.

Their goal arrived in the sixth minute when Molony found the net in emphatic fashion following an inch-perfect long delivery from Alan Flood.

Jude’s goal came eight minutes later when the influential Kevin McManamon’s attempted fist point was deflected to the net off a Boden defender.

The Tymon North men restarted with serious intent and inside the opening 90 seconds Niall Coakley had kicked a point and midfielder Seamus Ryan rifled to the net to bring the sides level.

There was nothing between the sides throughout the second half but as the half wore on sub Colm Basquel began to have more of an influence as bodies tired and those late scores from midfielder, Aran Waters, who kicked 0-3 from play and Keaney brought the game into extra-time.

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GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR DUNDRUM SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

BODEN’S NEW BOSS: St Enda’s sign up 30-year-old John O’Brien to take over from Andy McEntee P31

DEC 27, 2016 - JAN 4, 2017

HISTORY-MAKER RYAN RETIRES: Caroline ended a century’s wait for Irish track medal P29

Crokes Under-21s’ Christmas cheer  sport@dublingazette.com

KILMACUD Crokes enjoyed some extra festive cheer as their Under-21 footballers became the last champions of 2016, winning out in the A championship final on the Tuesday before Christmas.

It meant they retained the title, defeating Ballymun Kickhams 0-12 to 0-6 in a wet and windy St Finian’s, Newcastle.

Crokes led 0-5 to 0-4 at the break having playing into the wind and extended their advantage to 0-7 to 0-4 inside six minutes of the restart following points from the impressive duo

of Callum Pearson and Cian O’Connor.

However, Ballymun rallied back with scores from Paddy Small and Colm Hulton to cut the gap to the minimum, 0-7 to 0-6, with eight minutes of normal time remaining.

The Mun had enjoyed a period of dominance in the middle sector at this stage with Aaron Elliott holding sway at centre-field but Crokes showed good mettle to respond over the conclusion of this well-contested battle to run out six-point victors.

However, full-back Sam Daly protected the danger zone to telling effect while, behind, him

Conor Creasey dealt with any loose ball.

Good play by Cillian O’Shea, one of Crokes most influential players on the night, set up an opportunity which O’Connor converted to break Kickhams’ momentum.

Tom Fox’s excellent point, after Conor Kelly did well to retrieve a ball that looked like it might run out of play, saw Crokes go 0-9 to 0-6 clear.

The last three points of the game all came from the trusty left boot of Pearson, two coming from play, to see his side to victory.

In the opening half, the lively

Ryan Swan gave Ballymun an early lead before Cian O’Connor brought the sides level in the sixth minute.

Further points from Conor Kelly and a Pearson free edged Crokes 0-3 to 0-1 clear in the difficult conditions.

Colm Hulton led by example up front by dragging Paddy Christie’s side back into the game with three points in succession (including three frees) to push his side a point in front, 0-4 to 0-3, by the 20th minute.

But crucially Crokes finished the half on the up with scores from Conor Kelly and O’Connor.

Kilmacud Crokes Under-21 footballers celebrate their A championships success