Dublin Gazette: Fingal Edition

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DublinGazette OCTOBER 17-23, 2019

DUBLINMAGAZINE: What has the EU ever done for us? Just one fascinating topic from our busy but brilliant Magazine section! SEE P13

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SPORT

SOCCER: Dubliner

Roberto Lopes talks to Dublin Gazette on his shock and pride in stepping up to international level with his Cape Verde debut at the weekend. SEE P28-29

Fingal Edition FREE

THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL AREA

Dail hears of call for Hartstown centre fund GARY IBBOTSON

THE plea for funding to help redevelop Huntstown Community Centre has reached all the way to the Dail, after Deputy Joan Burton (Lab) called on the Government to provide the €250,000 needed to repair the local facility.

In a recent audit of the centre, it was found that it is in breach of current fire-safety standards and

TRAVEL P19

YOU’LL FIND SOME ICE DEALS NOW ON SKIING HOLIDAYS

that the structure itself is in danger of falling into dilapidation.

The Huntstown centre is run entirely by volunteers and is estimated that 68,000 people have used the facility so far this year.

Deputy Burton has called on the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring, to provide the funds necessary to keep the centre afloat.

FULL STORY ON PAGE 2

Spreading some positivity Find us on Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

CULTURAL CELEBRATIONS: Dancing with a very colourful sari and intricately painted hands, Rasajna Marepalli looked wonderful as she helped Phibblestown Community Centre celebrate an intercultural day recently. The day was a gathering to celebrate some of the many peoples and cultures who call Dublin 15 home, with Rasajna one of many to showcase diverse traditions.

WE TALK to a Blanch woman who’s hoping to win Miss Bikini Ireland, with the finalist also hoping that her message of self-belief and confidence will help lots of people to feel better about them-

selves. The thoughtful contestant – personal trainer, Rebekah Burnett – has an uplifting message of positivity for everyone, which already makes her a real winner, in our books.

SEE PAGE 3

SPORT THERE was a great turnout for the official opening of new skate parks in Balbriggan and Skerries, which have proven a real hit in the area.

SEE PAGE 3

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 17 October 2019

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COMMUNITY: CALL FOR GOVERNMENT TO HELP ADDRESS ISSUES

Burton presses for funds to help Huntstown centre GARY IBBOTSON

AT THE sitting of the Dail last Friday, Deputy Joan Burton (Lab) asked the Government to address the severe fire safety and remedial structure issues prevalent at Huntstown Community Centre.

In her initial statement, Deputy Burton said that “Huntstown is a very large community in D15; it has a very successful community centre which, to date, has been used by 68,000 people and counting.”

The community centre, located near Mulhuddart, was opened in 2001 and is used by local Scout groups, the Order of Malta, Vincent de Paul, Huntstown Football Club and a creche.

However, a recent safety

audit of the building found that remedial structure works and an update to fire-safety infrastructure were badly needed.

In her statement, Deputy Burton said: “The report on fire safety, structural safety and structural issues of the building is really concerning and it comes with a price tag which, in the context of how the Government spends money, it’s not that big – it’s €250,000.

“It involves making the roof safe, it involves making the building safe in terms of various materials and various building practices which were not adhered to when a new addition was added on to the centre years ago.”

Deputy Burton said

Deputy Joan Burton hailed Huntstown Community Centre’s role at the heart of the area’s social life, and called for funding to help tackle key remedial works

that, like the shops and neighbouring church, the centre is “the heartbeat of the community”.

She added: “The centre staff and the centre management really work very hard and are respected by the community for the

contribution they make.”

In response to Deputy Burton, Andrew Doyle, Minister of State with special responsibility for Food, Forestry and Horticulture – standing in for the absent Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring – said that “the Minister is aware of the situation at Huntstown Community Centre [and] knows how important it is to the people there”.

However, due to Huntstown’s urban location, it does not qualify for funding through the LEADER

Programme, which supports rural towns and communities through amenity development.

Speaking to Dublin Gazette, Deputy Burton said she has spoken directly to Deputy Ring about the issue and the potential of using dormant funds to subsidise the repair works.

According to Deputy Burton, Deputy Ring said that he is “examining [the issue] as a matter of urgency”. When contacted by Dublin Gazette, Deputy Ring had not replied for comment by the time of going to print.

FASTNews New pathway is approved FINGAL County Council has announced that it has submitted a proposal for the long-awaited footpath on the northern side of Turvey Avenue, Donabate, through the Part 8 plan.

In a statement, Cllr Adrian Henchy (FF) said he is pleased with the progress, adding: “This long overdue critical piece of infrastructure, providing at long last a continuous footpath on the northern side of Turvey Avenue, will mean no more having to cross the road to stay on the footpath.”

A toast for great talkers CASTLEKNOCK Toastmasters recently held their annual Humorous Speech and Topics contest.

Held in Myos Pub in Castleknock, the group crowned Barry Lane as the Humorous Speech Champion of the Year.

Meanwhile, Cepta Burke won the Topics competition, where members are challenged to speak off-the-cuff for one minute or more on a chosen topic.

Castleknock Toastmasters meet on the first and third Thursday of every month in Myos Pub at 8pm, and everyone is welcome to join.

17 October 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

SPORT: A RED RIBBON MOMENT FOR SOUGHT AFTER BALBRIGGAN AND SKERRIES FACILITIES

Cheers as popular skate parks get their official opening

The Mayor of Fingal, Eoghan O’Brien, and interim chief executive AnnMarie Farrelly open Balbriggan Skate Park and Skerries Skate Park alongside Kevin Halpenny, Fingal Senior Parks Superintendent, with locals and public representatives

NEW parks in Balbriggan and Skerries were officially opened last week, though they are already being widely used since their opening earlier this year.

The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Eoghan O’Brien and interim council chief AnnMarie Farrelly were on hand to officially open the amenity parks, which were constructed by UK contractor Freestyle Skate Parks.

The Skerries park is designed as a bowl-style facility, while Balbriggan’s new skate park is

designed in the classic plaza style.

Both have been designed to cater to a wide age range and level of experience.

Cllr O’Brien said: “By providing accessible facilities, the council hopes to foster a culture of health and outdoor recreation amongst users that will be passed on to the generations after them.”

Farrelly said: “I would like to thank my team in the Parks and Green Infrastructure Division for their hard work on delivering

this much sought after amenity, and I look forward to seeing users young and old availing of this wonderful sporting facility.”

Community engagement was a hallmark of the project. A key aspect of the success of the project is that the design of the skate park was informed by the users’ needs and complements the character of both sites.

The parks have already proven a huge hit with their targeted users since being opened earlier this year.

FASTNews

PEOPLE: CONTEST FINALIST HAS A GREAT MESSAGE

Bikini hopeful is doing her part for self-confidence SYLVIA POWNALL

A FITNESS trainer from Blanchardstown who struggled through her teens with body image has made it through to the finals of Miss Bikini Ireland.

Rebekah Burnett told how her confidence has grown since she entered the competition – and she is now planning to compete as a bodybuilder.

The 21-year-old, who works as a personal trainer and fitness instructor at Westwood, told Dublin Gazette: “I entered to grow my self-confidence.

“I used to be very unhappy with my body, I had a problem with body image, but now I’m much more confident in myself since joining the competition.

“I wanted to have s o m e t h i n g to wo r k towards for my training in the gym. I’ve always been quite shy, so this competition has really helped me.

“I’m training five days a week on top of all the

classes I’m teaching, and we have plans to enter me into my first bodybuilding competition this November.”

She added: “Fitness and wellbeing are very important to me and I’d like to be a role model for women to have a healthy relationship with diet and exercise.

to enter.

The winner will get an all-expenses paid trip to compete in the world finals of Swimsuit USA International for nine days, with a top prize of $80,000.

Rebekah said: “Winning Miss Bikini Ireland would be a dream come true to me. I’ve always

“I would like to help as many people as possible to feel comfortable in their own skin.”

The finals of Miss Bikini Ireland will be held at the Red Cow Inn this Sunday, October 20 at 7:30pm.

The contest differs from other model searches as there are no height restrictions, and both mothers and women with tattoos are allowed

wanted to do modelling.

“I’m extremely grateful for all the support I’ve received so far, so thanks to everyone who has helped me.”

Contestants with the highest number of public votes stand a better chance of winning.

To vote for Rebekah, visit the Miss Bikini Ireland Facebook page and give her photo a like and a share.

“

Water boost for park users THE Office of Public Works (OPW) has revealed that the first water fountain in the Phoenix Park for the purpose of refilling water bottles has been installed.

In a letter addressed to Cllr Emer Currie (FG) in September, Minister of State for the OPW and Flood Relief, Deputy Kevin Moran (Ind), said that he expected the fountain to be fitted in the next few weeks.

The fountain has been installed in the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, with another filling station also being considered, adjacent to the car park in Ashtown Demense.

School pyrite costs raised

Fitness and wellbeing are very important to me and I’d like to be a role model for women to have a healthy relationship with diet and exercise

Rebekah Burnett

ALMOST €300,000 has been spent on short-term repairs for primary schools whose foundations contain pyrite, according to the Minister for Education, Joe McHugh.

Brought up in a Dail sitting last week by Green Party TDs, it was revealed that among the affected schools are St Patrick’s National School in Diswellstown and Castleknock Educate Together.

The question on how much has been spent on the works was submitted on behalf of Green Party councillor for Castleknock, Roderic O’Gorman”.

Deputy McHugh confirmed five national schools across Dublin had pyrite in their foundations, with €167,000 being spent on repairs at St Patrick’s and further funds being approved for works at Castleknock Educate Together.

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 17 October 2019

CRIME: JOHN CURRAN (FF) DRAFTS BILL TO HELP TACKLE ISSUE

New legislation drawn up to fight minors’ drugs role GARY IBBOTSON

The new legislation is aimed at both protecting minors and punishing adult criminals trying to exploit them

LEGISLATION has been drafted up to tackle the use of children in the distribution of drugs trade.

John Curran – Fianna Fail spokesperson for its National Drug Policy, and TD for Dublin Mid-West – has prepared the legislation with the aim of increasing the criminal consequences for those who use children in the preparation and sale of illegal drugs.

According to Deputy Curran, the new bill would make it a criminal offence to purchase drugs from a person under the age of 18, or to cause a child to be in the possession of drugs for the intent of sale and supply.

“

There has been an increase in under-18year-olds dealing drugs

Speaking about the legislation, Deputy Curran said: “At the beginning of the year, Blanchardstown Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force published research that many already knew to be the case – children as young as eight were working as drug ‘runners’, with tenyear olds dealing drugs.”

The same report details that there has been an increase over the past two years in the number of under-18-year-olds dealing drugs.

It also says that some young people see drug dealing as a way of making easy money, while boosting their social status. The average age of drug runners is thought to be 13.

Deputy Curran said:

“The use of minors in drug distribution networks is appealing because, due to their age, there are fewer criminal consequences if they are caught.

“This bill seeks to change that, and in doing so, make it less attractive for those higher up the distribution chain from using young people in this manner.”

The bill has been submitted to the Bills Office and Deputy Curran hopes he will be able to introduce it to the Dail in the coming weeks.

He added: “I hope that the combined effect of these two new offences will be to protect young people against getting involved in the drug economy.”

FASTNews

Blanch estate wins a top Green award WHITESTOWN Estate Management in Blanchardstown has been named overall winners in the annual Fingal Greener Communities Awards.

The focus this year was on increasing pollinators and biodiversity and on fostering sustainable communities. Communities were also encouraged to play an increasing role in our environmental response to climate change and environmental improvements.

This year saw more than 100 entrants across all categories, which ranged from Best Front Garden to the Biodiversity Award, with 40 prizes awarded.

Other winners included Castleknock Tidy Towns (Business and Community), St Luke’s NS Tyrrelstown, Melville Meakstown, Seabury Tidy Districts Group (Adopt a Patch), Baldoyle Forum (Best Village), Rush Tidy Towns, Skerries Tidy Towns (Coastal), Balbriggan Tidy Towns (Upcycling Project), Huntstown Community Centre (Climate Action).

Pictured (centre) at the awards ceremony are Whitestown Estate Management members Robyn Ashe, Joseph Bennett and Samantha Hanna, with the council’s acting chief executive Annemarie Farrelly, and the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Eoghan O’Brien.

Additional Fosterstown Dublin Bus site may be services for a school DUBLIN Bus has announced that a number of additional services will be introduced by the end of the month.

According to the company, the No 37 bus route will see an additional departure from Laurel Lodge at 7:30am from Monday to Friday, and an additional 39A bus will run from Ongar at 5:30am during the weekdays.

Beginning on October 21, route 25, leaving Merrion Square, will have an additional departure at 6:55am. The route will also see another bus being added to the schedule at 4:50pm – heading towards Lucan (Dodsboro).

More weekend services will be introduced on the 68/A and 69 bus route, with increasing departures being implemented from Sunday, October 20.

Route 69 will also have an additional Monday to Friday departure from Hawkins Street to Rathcoole at 8:15am.

AT A recent Area Committee meeting for Balbriggan, Swords and Rush-Lusk, it was revealed that the local authority is deliberating with the Department of Education with a view to acquiring a vacant site at Fosterstown.

As part of the Fosterstown master plan, a new primary school for the area was envisaged to cater for the predicted increase in local residents.

Independents4Change councillor for Swords, Dean Mulligan, asked the council executive as to whether the earmarked site would be acquired by compulsory purchase order. However, that does not seem to be the case.

The chief executive said: “The council is liaising with the Department of Education and Skills with a view to entering into negotiations to acquire land at Fosterstown by agreement for the provision of a school site from the relevant landowner.”

17 October 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

BUDGET 2020: HELP FOR

SOME, BUT STILL NEEDS FOR MORE RESOURCES

Budget 2020 – a mixed bag in the eyes of groups and businesses There were many responses to the latest budget, with some praise – and plenty of criticism. Here are some of the reactions.

We may yet see a Brexit-driven silver lining JONATHAN HEHIR Managing director of the CFM Group, responsible for some of Ireland’s leading online insurance broking brands such as Insuremyhouse.ie, Insuremycars.ie, Insuremyholiday.ie, and others

THE Minister’s moves away from petrol and diesel cars, and towards electric and hybrid vehicles, was loud and clear .

While there’s widespread agreement that it is a good idea for people to go electric for a variety

of reasons, this needs to be facilitated and it needs to be workable for households all over the country.

The additional investment earmarked for charging points is the very least that is needed if we expect people to make the switch.

In terms of wider issues, the shadow cast

by Brexit was large and ominous.

The insurance industry will be particularly sensitive to the Oct 31 outcome, and while there are definitely challenging times ahead, there is a possibility that, in the insurance sector at least, there could be some element of a silver lining, with some UK-based insurers possibly looking to Ireland as a new home.

[Such a move would] increase competition in the market, which could only mean good news in the way of better value for consumers.

Most families aren’t likely to see much change JOANNA MURPHY Chief executive of Taxback. com – one of the most successful global grands to come out of Ireland

THERE were no real surprises – good or bad – from Budget 2020. Most families, however, are not going to see much more, if anything, in their household budget once these changes take effect.

We do very much welcome the increase in the

home carer tax credit – and I hope more and more people can benefit from this in the coming year.

Our own experience suggests that this credit is underutilised and that there are many families throughout the country who are entitled to it, but who have never applied for it because they simply don’t know about it.

The much-maligned USC is still in place at its current level, and although when it was introduced initially it was hoped it would be temporary, it doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere in the foreseeable future.

This year has seen the minister take another step to remedying the anomaly between the income tax paid by the self-employed and the PAYE worker in this country.

While the increase of the earned income tax credit for the self-

employed, to €1500, falls short of parity with PAYE workers, it is certainly a step in the right direction for the thousands of jobcreating business owners in Ireland.

Hopes for greater support to train up apprentices AARON WILLIS General manager at property developers GPD

WITH more than €11 billion committed to the Department of Education and Skills in 2020, we would hope a significant allocation will be given to apprenticeship training programmes and the promotion of our young people into trades and professions such as engineering and architecture.

On the positive side, the extension of the help to buy scheme for first-time buyers will give some much needed surety to developers, which should bode well for more houses coming on stream in 2020 and beyond.

There have been various figures thrown about,

but the scheme has contributed to anywhere from 40 – 80% of such sales since its introduction, so it was an absolute no-brainer that it should be retained.

Self-employed people got some show of support PAUL PRENDERGAST Chief executive and co-founder, Blink, a leading Irish travel insurance InsurTech

WHILE there’s not a whole lot that can be taken from Budget 2020, we do welcome, however small, the show of support for Ireland’s self-employed by way of the increase in the earned income tax credit.

This group comprises more than 11% of earners in Ireland and are responsible for a substantial amount of employment generated in cities and town throughout the country, but for some reason, there is a big difference between how they and their PAYE counterparts are treated for taxation purposes.

The impact of this is that those who want to step up and take a chance on their business and their passion are actually dissuaded from doing so.

We need to support those who are brave enough to try go it alone – we need tax parity at the very least, but we also need more supports and incentives.

Two stand outs, for me, were the R&D credit being raised to 30%, and the fact that €10m of the Department of Business’s €1bn [expenditure] is earmarked for disruptive technologies.

This way of thinking is exactly where we need to be – promoting the type

of businesses in Ireland that can grow and scale up quickly and become fast contributors to the economy.

Budget 2020 had almost nothing for older citizens SEAN MOYNIHAN Chief executive of Alone, which helps support and advocate for older citizens across the country

OLDER people across the country will be frustrated at this year’s budget, which has given very little back to older people experiencing financial, health and housing difficulties.

Budget 2020 did not adequately respond to challenges including Ireland’s ageing population and the housing crisis, as well as those day-to-day challenges experienced by older people across the country.

We believe that while other sectors have been protected against Brexit, by not increasing vital supports such as the state pension, the most vulnerable people in our society have been left unprotected.

If costs increase to necessities like food and transport, older people will be left vulnerable.

While we welcomed the long-awaited increase to the Living Alone Allowance, which will be received by thousands of people, this year many will be worse off as the pension has not even increased to match inflation.

Among the most frequent cases seen by ALONE staff include the impact of rising accommodation costs.

To find out more about ALONE’s services nationwide, call 0818 222 024 or visit www.alone. ie.

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 17 October 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

There were smiles all around from the students and their friends, with teachers also congratulating them

Results are in

S

AINT Mary’s Catholic School For Girls, Baldoyle, students are pictured receiving their Junior Certificate results last week. Although the results were just over three weeks later this year, there was still the usual feelings on show from the girls - calmness, nervousness, anxiety, enthusiasm, confidence.

All the students gathered in the Canteen and after Ms. Greene, the Principal, spoke to them, the Form Teachers from last year, Mr Bowler and Mr O’Neill distributed the sealed enveloped to all the students.

Some opened the envelopes immediately, some went outside to open them, there were plenty of screams of joy, some visited their teachers while others decided to open the envelope outside with their nervously waiting anxious parents.

17 October 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

FORMER DRUGS COUNSELLOR GUILTY

Partial suspended sentence for man with cocaine haul A FORMER drugs counsellor who was caught transporting €136,000 of cocaine has received a partially suspended sentence.

Christian Herbert (40), of Sheepmore Avenue, Blanchardstown, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of cocaine for sale or supply at Blackcourt Road, Corduff on November 16, 2018.

Herbert was caught w i t h a p p rox i m a te l y €136,000 of cocaine on behalf of another person.

The court heard that the accused was promised a reduction of €500 from a drug debt for transporting the cocaine.

Defence counsel told the court that his client had previously been addicted

to drugs, but was clean between 2003 and 2015.

He said his client began taking drugs once again following the breakdown of his marriage.

Mr Clarke said his client has been in custody since the date of his arrest and he is currently taking methadone while in custody.

Judge Elma Sheahan noted a probation report placed Herbert as a moderate risk of re-offending due to his addiction, his wish to detox and his working as a cleaner while in custody.

She said the case was aggravated by the seriousness of the offence.

Judge Sheahan said the case was mitigated by Herbert having previously

worked as a drug counsellor following his previous detoxification, and his insight into drug culture and the damage it does to society.

She said other mitigating factors were his early plea of guilty, his co-operation with gardai, his genuine remorse and desire to reform, his familial support and the fact gardai accepted he was in fear at the time of the offence.

The judge sentenced Herbert to three-and-ahalf years’ imprisonment, but suspended the final 12 months of the sentence for 24 months on strict conditions.

Judge Sheahan backdated the sentence to the date Herbert first went into custody, November 16, last.

Delight as St Peregrine’s give €2,500 to D15 suicide support THERE were smiles all round when St Peregrine’s GAA presented a cheque for €2,500 to Suicide Awareness D15 (SAD 15) recently.

Philip Jennings, SAD 15 (centre) was delighted to collect the funds from the club’s chairman and secretary, Garreth Walsh and David McEneaney respectively, thanking the men, the club and their supporters for the terrific donation.

The funds were raised from the club’s

recent Owen Gilhooley Tournament, which saw a great response from the club and all across the Dublin 15 community.

The fundraising night was just one more event on the club’s busy calendar, with the cheque presentation made on the same night that it launched its upcoming “I’m a Celeb ... Get Me out of here” night, which promises to be another great success for the club on Friday, October 25.

FASTNews

Coolmine Musical Societys’ race Lusk centre site to night set a great pace for next show be used for housing COOLMINE Musical Society got everybody in the mood at its Race Night in the Clonsilla Inn ahead of its stage performance of Made in Dagenham.

It was a case of all bets are on and some were lucky to win big on the night.

The countdown for the upcoming show, Made In Dagenham, is well and truly on too and the cast were out in force to enjoy a fun night.

Made in Dagenham will be staged from Tuesday, November 12 to Saturday, November 16 and tickets are on sale now.

Cast includes Bronwyn Andrews (Rita), Ian Rountree (Eddie), Justin Parkes (Harold Wilson), Robbie Kennedy (Monty).

A spokesperson revealed: “Our hardworking cast are making sure we all stand up and get everybody out to see us swinging into the Sixties with this fantastic show.”

Tickets (€25) for the show can be bought online now at www.draiocht.ie, or call 01 885 2622.

FINGAL County Council has purchased Leonards Garage and will earmark the site in the centre of Lusk for housing.

A feasibility study will now be carried out by council architects Department to review how many homes this site can accommodate.

Welcoming the move, Cllr Tom O’Leary (FG) said: “The location is very central, beside a bus stop, Lusk Garda Station and within walking distance of church, schools, supermarkets, pub and the proposed new Lidl supermarket at the Lusk Village Quarter Development.

“It would be an ideal location for housing for the elderly. I look forward to the proposed design when it comes forward for consideration by councillors.

“I specifically want to wish Eric and Mary Leonard a happy retirement. They ran an excellent business in Lusk for many years.”

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 17 October 2019

17 October 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 17 October 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Quray Sumra and Yasir Bashir and family Waffles the Magician and the FM104 Team. Pictures: Alwyn Bourne

Upe Razmaite

Celebrating 20 years W

ESTEND Shopping Park celebrated their 20 year anniversary last week with a day of family fun! FM104 broadcasted live from the park with a host of characters including Star Wars Storm Troopers, Transformers Bumblebee, Ironman as well as Waffles the magician, extraordinary face painters and brilliant balloon artists! Shoppers were treated to live entertainment, a chance to win lots of great prizes and amazing in-store promotions!

Paul and Dolores

A balloon artist

Facepainting at Westend Shopping Park

17 October 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Community Garda Rosanna Caul with Sammy and Alex Blazek

Performers from the Al-Awal Centre. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

Showcase of cultural acts in Dublin 15 F

Melissa Ferraren and Bala Jyothi Akkala

INGAL Ethnic Network presented a celebration of diversity at Phibblestown Community Centre last week. Intercultural Day showcased cultural acts from over ten different countries and multi cultural cuisine.

Susieana Komoiase and Rebecca Omede

Anita, Diana, Daniella and Diovine Eze

Adelola Akintonde, Rizwan Zahid and Lesley O’Hanlon

Rose Silver dancing the Samba

Dayakar Komirelly and Ditun Adegbesan

Bal Krishna Shrestha, Ramika and Sushant Heidi O’Hanlon

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 October 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Wheelie good brand

YOU’LL forgive us for promoting ourselves this week – but come on, don’t these just look trio-mendous? Keep an eye open for our Dublin Gazette bikes which will be zipping out and about in the city centre today (Thursday, October 17), including around St Stephen’s Green!

Eagle-eyed readers may have already seen them around the city and suburbs in recent weeks – have you seen Dublin Gazette on the go?

17 October 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

STYLE:

NEW TOYOTA IS QUIETLY CONFIDENT P20

SKIMENDOUS TRIPS P19

DUBLIN

WE’VE yet to make it past Hallowe’en, or even you-knowwhat just before New Year’s Eve, but many people are already thinking of sloping off on some ski holidays.

BE A HALLOWQUEEN: ITS THE SPOOKIEST time of the year, and a great excuse to play dress up – it doesn’t have to just be for kids, you know! PrettyLittleThing have a host of costumes for anything you have coming up this October 31 that’ll take you through a night of trick-ortreating right through to the witching hour itself.

MAGAZINE PAGE 18

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS TAKE YOU ON A TOUR OF THE NEWS AND EVENTS ACROSS THE CITY AND COUNTY

WHAT’S THE STORY? | OPENING DOORS TO ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY

Illustrating Ireland’s benefits from our European Union membership PADRAIG CONLON

WITH waves of Brexit talk lapping across the Irish Sea on a daily basis, thoughts sometimes turn to the classic Monty Python sketch in The Life of Brian.

“What have the Romans ever done for us?” John Cleese asks, trying to start an uprising. “Er, sanitation, aqueducts, roads, public health, medicine...” comes the reply.

Well, for anyone wondering what the EU has done for us

here in Ireland, a newly released publication aims to provide some answers.

“What’s The Story? – 25 Stories About Ireland and Europe”, an EU publication launched recently, features a massive social housing development overseen by Dublin City Council and a project developed by Bohemian FC that teaches numeracy through football among its stories.

Other projects featured in the new publication include the battle to save the curlew in Gal-

The EU’s new trade agreement with Canada helped The Shed Distillery break into the Canadian market

way, a clean energy initiative on Cape Clear and exporting Irish gin to global markets.

What these projects have in common is they all received EU support or funding, and the story of the EU and Ireland is told through stories that take place in communities all across the country.

European Affairs Minister Helen McEntee, who jointly wrote the publication’s introduction, spoke at its recent launch in Leinster House.

She said: “Since Ireland joined the [now] EU in 1973, we have benefitted hugely from our membership. In that time, we have moved from an isolated island on the fringes of Europe, to a modern island at the heart of the EU. “The EU is our home and it is one that we have helped to build and will continue to nourish and improve over the next number of decades. [These] stories give practical examples of how we in Ireland continue to benefit from our membership of the EU. “The EU spans across the entire continent of Europe and

Dublin students are benefitting from a unique EU-funded programme that promotes social inclusion and uses soccer to teach numeracy

allows us to have endless opportunities, to work, live, study and travel in each others’ countries.

“This is something that we must protect, so that this generation and the ones who follow

“

can continue to benefit from [EU membership].”

Gerry Kiely, head of the European Commission Representation in Ireland, said he believes one of the greatest stories to

be told today is that of Ireland’s relationship with Europe.

He said: “It’s a tale that has lasted more than four decades, and one that will continue to unfold for many future generations.

“The real story of the EU and Ireland, however, can be found in the stories that unfold quietly and without fuss in the communities, businesses, farms, schools and universities around the country.”

An interactive version of the publication can be downloaded in Irish and English from https://ec.europa.eu/ ireland. Hard copies can be requested from the European Commission Representation in Ireland, Europe House, 12-14 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2, email eu-ie-info-request@ ec.europa.eu.

The EU spans across the entire continent of Europe and allows us to have endless opportunities, to work, live, study and travel in each others’ countries

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 October 2019

GOINGOUTOUT INTERVIEW | EMMA LANGFORD DRAWS ON WHAT SHE KNOWS

PICK WEEK Finding a voice by putting OF THE

OCTOBER 17 (THURSDAY)

Cry Monster Cry @ Whelan’s, €18 LAST week we interviewed them, and this week we’re giving the talented Dublin duo another push, because we know that brothers Richie and Jamie Martin’s gig will surely entertain tonight.

OCTOBER 17 (THURSDAY)

Hot Chip @ The Olympia Theatre, SOLD OUT The return of a dance-pop outfit that thump through track after track in a show that entertains, over and over and over and over...

The Souljazz Orchestra @ The Sugar Club, €18 HappyAlone @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €13 David O’Doherty @ The Workman’s Club, SOLD OUT Dry Cleaning @ The Workman’s Club (late show), €13

OCTOBER 18 (FRIDAY)

Keywest @ The Academy, €23 Saarloos @ Whelan’s, €15 Saorise Casey @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €10

OCTOBER 19 (SATURDAY)

Hypnotic Brass Ensemble @ The Sugar Club, €20 Camile O’Sullivan @ The Olympia Theatre, €32 Dylan John Thomas @ The Academy, €12 Kawala @ The Academy Green Room, SOLD OUT Elkin @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), SOLD OUT

OCTOBER 20 (SUNDAY)

Haelos @ Whelan’s, €15 NSG @ The Academy Green Room, SOLD OUT

OCTOBER 21 (MONDAY)

Third Eye Blind @ The Academy, €30 Bobby Oroza @ The Sugar Club, €13

OCTOBER 22 (TUESDAY)

Chromatics @ Vicar Street, €29 MoStack @ The Academy, €23 Everyone You Know @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €12

OCTOBER 23 (WEDNESDAY)

Of Monsters And Men @ The Olympia Theatre, SOLD OUT WSTRN @ The Academy Green Room, €18 The Delines @ Whelan’s, €25

herself in others’ shoes Picture: Tim Reilly

 JAMES HENDICOTT

AS A rising singer-songwriter with a distinctive voice and a passion for carrying her message, Limerick’s Emma Langford has emerged into the limelight of the Irish music scene slowly but firmly over the past few years.

It’s been an odd journey for a woman who speaks eloquently and passionately, sings in a lyricallysharp brand of folk-pop, and wears her beliefs on her sleeve.

“I didn’t know if I had it in me to take myself seriously as an artist, and sometimes I still don’t,” Langford recalls of her early days, when she was still battling with the idea of taking the music to a professional level.

“I’m just fundamentally the kind of person who has a hard time taking myself seriously.

“But I’ve discovered that’s quite a nice place to be in the industry. I approach a lot of serious topics with a pinch of salt,

and I really enjoy doing it.”

Most of Langford’s songs, she explains, are fairly autobiographical.

“I challenge myself to go away from that,” she laughs. “I like to go into other people’s stories at times. People do tell you to write what you know, but I like to put myself in other people’s shoes.

“I have a few like that

on my new album, which I think will be out in January.”

Langford’s whole career “happened by accident,” she jokes. “It’s that whole thing of ‘an overnight success takes ten years to create’.

“I got asked to do a German tour, and the booker thought I was about to release an album. In the meeting, he needed the

album by September. This was in March.

“So I made the album for the tour, in six months.

“It happened by happy accident, but it put a fire under me, 100%. I started taking my career seriously because I wanted to say something about anxiety, and did through the track, Tug Of War. “It snowballed from there. This second album is the first time it’s felt like my choice, and there’s something quite empowering about that.

“It’s mostly written now,” she says, of the new record. “There are just a few guest vocals to do. It’s got some synths and some backing vocals and stuff like that.

It’s a change of direction, and I feel good about it.”

It’ll continue, no doubt, to shine a light on the things close to Langford’s heart.

“Talking about the anxiety, like in Tug Of War, doesn’t make me feel better,” she continues, “but I

think standing on a stage and telling people that you deal with it, it helps you to help other people, and you feel like you’ve done your job.

“You feel like what you’re doing isn’t narcissism, but a fundamental part of what it is to be human, and connect.

“There was a long time back there when I always wanted to be on the road, getting out of Limerick, but now I’m reverting a little, I want to get comfortable more than a day at a time.

“I’m keeping it simple now, though. I think I was trying to make things bigger than they were, because that’s the expected thing in music.

“If it’s not authentic and organic, you feel a huge amount of pressure. I like the more intimate side of things. It’s not for everyone to get bigger.

“Audiences don’t have to become huge, and I’m not sure it’s necessary what I want. I’m pretty happy making a living.”

17 October 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

WHAT’S BIG IN MUSIC, CINEMA, TV AND ONLINE

ENTERTAINMENT

Home is where the fear is for some unfortunate Carrigstown residents WHAT’S next for the residents of our favourite Dublin suburb? Our special preview will give you some of the highlights and low points that’ll hit Carrigstown this week ...

ROSE continues thinking that there is someone is the room, and goes to investigate, catching someone lurking in the house. The lurker pretends that he is Michael to try and stop Rose calling the Gardaí. Bosco doesn’t believe Rose when she tells him she saw

Michael. Rose’s talk of Michael puts Katy on edge.

Barry thinks about finding a permanent place to live, with Fiona offering him support as he ventures to find a new home in Carrigstown. He finds somewhere as the week goes on but is vague about his new arrangements to Paul and Fiona.

Cristiano asks about Damien this week, which has Will secretly seething. Cristiano is forced to lock himself in the bathroom when

Will shows his anger, with will injures himself trying to get the door opened.

Eoghan encourages Katy to go to Aberdeen as Ciaran eavesdrops on them, and she accuses Tessa of lying about Ciaran’s whereabouts.

Eoghan gets an urgent text from Tessa and leaves Rose alone in the house.

Katy lures Tessa into the attic and gives her a taste of Ciaran’s medicine.

Eoghan finds out Tessa failed to pick up Fionn from school and is horrified to discover

Clive Owen and a de-aged Will Smith (as a young clone of the film’s main character)

CINEMA | GEMINI MAN UNDERWHELMS

Once fresh prince struggles in a dull killer clone yarn SHANE DILLON

READERS of a certain age will probably recall a time when Will Smith was still considered ultra-cool and relevant, with a string of hits seeing the beloved Fresh Prince riding the zeitgeist.

Those days, alas, seem ever further away, considering a string of often dreadful films and projects he’s bizarrely plumped for in recent years.

And, although Christmas isn’t here just yet, Smith has just delivered a prime turkey, with director Ang Lee’s Gemini Man (Cert 12A, 117 mins).

Ageing assassin Henry (Smith) decides to hang up his guns after a mission goes awry, but his shady agency decides that it wants to ‘retire’ him in a rather more permanent

fashion.

It’s not long before his friend, and a mysterious woman, have also become caught up in things as Henry goes on the run, with a particularly powerful assassin hot on his trail.

As the trailers have made painfully clear, Henry’s being stalked by a younger clone of himself, who’s just as intuitive and good as he is, but with all the advantages of youth.

Can Henry and Dani (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) stay ahead of ‘Junior’ (also Smith) long enough to shut down the killer clone unit and ‘retire’ his doublecrossing boss (Clive Owen)?

Yikes. It doesn’t take too long to work out why the script was trapped in development hell for about 20 years.

Indeed, I vaguely recall reading about it some 15 or so years ago.

All kinds of stars, directors and studios had been attached to it down the years, until Ang Lee and Smith teamed up for this overcooked mess.

The CG effects to create a young-looking Smith as Junior works well – most, but not all of the time – but it’s something of a novelty distraction.

The core problem is the underwhelming plot and script, which really underscore why this film was kicking around the studios for absolute yonks.

Having gone from the highs of last week’s killer clown (Joker) to the lows of this killer clone tale, I’m afraid the stars just haven’t aligned for this particular Gemini.

Verdict: 4/10

what Katy has done to Tessa.

Eoghan assures Katy that Ciaran will never hurt her again.

Hughie’s dependency on alcohol escalates, leading to Dolores enlisting Jackie to talk to Hughie. Hughie’s phone call from Jackie pushes him over the edge and he reaches for the bottle again. Jane is frustrated as Hughie’s behaviour starts affecting the business.

Watch Fair City on RTE One on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 October 2019

17 October 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS I N F O R M AT I O N Heritage House, Dundrum, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240 Dublin Gazette Newspapers publishes four weekly quality free titles, covering the latest news, sport, entertainment and lifestyle from the four local authority areas of Dublin

SOME OF THE THINGS THAT CAUGHT OUR EYE THIS WEEK...

Why do dogs sleep so much?

Does your dog spend a good deal of the day with his head on a pillow? Dogs tend to spend 50 percent of the day snoozing, 30 percent awake but lying around, and 20 percent being active.

Dog’s Age and Size On average, dogs spend about 12-to-14 hours of the 24-hour cycle sleeping. Older dogs need significant amounts of sleep simply because, as they age, living becomes more difficult.

Puppies, like babies, spend a lot of time exhausting energy while playing and exploring their new surroundings. Because of this, they might need as much as 18-to-20 hours of sleep but it tends to be the bigger breeds that are known for constant dozing.

C O N TA C T S Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@dublingazette.com Commercial Director: Liz Ferris lferris@dublingazette.com Group Editor: Patrick Finnegan pfinnegan@dublingazette.com Deputy Group Editor & Travel Editor: Shane Dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile jmaile@dublingazette.com Picture Editor: Alison O’Hanlon picturedesk@dublingazette.com Online & Style Editor: Rachel D’Arcy rdarcy@dublingazette.com Advertising Sales:

01 - 6010240 sales@dublingazette.com

FIND US ON

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

Breed Activity Level The amount of sleep dogs need also depends on what they are bred to do. For instance, it’s necessary for working dogs to stay awake because of the physical and mental demands they face each day. Dogs that lead more sedentary lifestyles, however, will spend most of the day doing whatever they want (i.e. sleeping).

Life Changes in Your Dog As is the case for humans, if dogs experience any sudden life changes, they are likely to react. Because dogs adapt so well to their original environments, any shift in their usual experiences may affect them.

For example, if they experience the death of a companion or a big move. Understandably, dogs may need extra sleep to get their mood and energy level back to normal.

Health However, if you find that there is a dramatic change in your dog’s sleeping habits or something seems a little off, you might want to consult your veterinarian. Excessive sleep has been linked to conditions such as canine depression, diabetes, and hypothyroidism.

What are Dogs’ Sleeping Patterns? Dogs’ sleeping patterns are pretty similar to our own. They start out in the slow wave of sleep, during which breathing slows, blood pressure drops, and heart rate decreases.

After about 10 minutes, they enter the rapid eye movement (REM) phase and their body might react to dreams.

The main difference between our sleep and theirs is the amount of time spent in this stage.

Humans spend up to 25 percent of sleep in REM. Dogs, on the other hand, are only in REM for about 10 percent of their sleep time because of inconsistent sleep schedules.

Brought to you by Carl & Patricia Cautley Affordable Super Premium Pet Food Tel. 089 602 6096

www.hussed15.ie carl@hussed15.ie patricia@hussed15.ie

Giant hair ball removed from teen’s stomach

Care to join?

LORD Mayor Paul Mc Auliffe launched his new “Join Up, Join In” initiative in Ballymun Library with 4th Class pupils from North Dublin National School Project.

Aimed at 9 and 10 year olds, the initiative kicks off with the launch of a competition for 4th class pupils to design a new library card for children. A design template is available from all branches of Dublin City Council Libraries and participating Schools and the competition will run until 22nd November 2019.

A 19-YEAR-OLD girl was admitted to hospital in the city of UlanUde in southern Russia with severe stomach pains.

According to reports the teen was getting sick after meals and was feeling weak.

After medical examinations, doctors found a solid mass in her stomach (pictured) and decided on surgery.

Doctors were shocked to discover a human hairball in her stomach, measuring 50x10x10 centimetres and weighing 4.4lbs Head of the surgical team, Bator Dondokov, said: “Things like that can begin with an apparently innocent habit of chewing on your own hair.

“The group of people most at risk are young girls and the swallowed hair remains in the stomach.”

Picture: Iain White/Fennell Photography

DOG OF THE WEEK DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs.

This week’s dog of the week is Dusty, a lovely and sweet four-yearold Collie cross that gave birth to a litter of puppies at the Rehoming Centre.

She was a wonderful mum to her pups, who have all found loving homes, so now it’s her time to find someone to spoil her.

Dusty can be shy and nervous around people at first and does take time to build a friendship, but once that friendship is built, she will work her way into your heart. She will need you to give her the time she needs to settle in; a doggie pal is a must to help her with this.

Dusty is not very familiar with being handled and will need time to feel comfortable with cuddles. Do you have the time to commit to help her become the confident dog she has the potential to be?

dusty If you have room in your heart and home for Dusty 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 www.facebook.com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. (Remember: Always have your dog on a lead when in public.)

BITS & BOBS

Woman shot after Labrador triggers loaded weapon A WOMAN had to paws after a ruff incident in Oklahoma last week, after a Labrador stood on a loaded gun and shot her in the leg.

The woman was shot while she and the owner of the dog, who is named Molly, were in a truck waiting for a train to pass.

Police officers were dispatched after they received a 911 call stating that the lab has stepped on the weapon, which caused the gun to discharge a bullet into the passenger’s left thigh, according to a police report.

It is believed Molly jumped from the backseat onto the centre console, which caused the gun to fire.

The woman, who is

in her 40s, was bleeding heavily when the man called 911. A burn mark under the console on the passenger side was consistent with the man’s account, police said, with foul play not suspected.

Sgt. Robert Norton told local news station KOCO that the incident is the first time he’s “ever heard of a dog shooting a person.”

Toddler accidentally buys $430 couch YOU might want to think twice before handing your phone over to your child after reading this.

A mum from California was looking for a new couch and was scrolling on the Amazon app.

Isabella McNeil told NBC 7 as she was browsing when her toddler Rayna said, “Mama, phone.

Mama, phone.”

McNeil caved in and gave her phone to her daughter and the toddler pressed the “Buy Now With 1-Click” button unbeknownst to McNeil, and just like that, she bought the $430 couch.

A few days later when she was at work she got an alert on the phone that read ‘Your couch has been shipped.’

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 October 2019

HOME & STYLE

FRESH IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME AND WARDROBE

Martha is a Personal Stylist and Image Consultant. To find out more visit www.marthaslookingglass.com or follow Martha on Facebook/Instagram @Martha’sLookingGlass

STYLE SOS WITH

Martha

Time for your wardrobe to move into a new phase

OCTOBER IS definitely the trickiest time of year when it comes to dressing. A few weeks ago I wore a maxi with no jacket until 9pm and was perfectly snug, days later I was in a wooly jumper and boots.

It’s an impossible time to plan outfits.

First thing I do when I wake up is check the weather app, then try to dress accordingly. I appreciate that it is hard but I hate seeing winter eager people totally abandoning their lighter layers and jumping straight back into their winter wardrobes regardless of the temperature.

When it comes to tights especially, I think it is important to stagger the density of your deniers. I recommend moving from bare legs to skin coloured tights in September.

Early October is the perfect time for barely blacks and by Halloween it is full on thick, black and cosy.

This tights plan is not just for the sake of your style, but your sanity. By April you’ll be itching to get your pasty pins back out into the fresh air again, so why not stall it on this end for as long as you can.

On the other hand, I would urge anyone who hasn’t packed away their extra bright, light summer clothes to do so now.

When I was a child, my Mum encouraged us to put a selection of toys into storage for a few months and later switch them out. The reason being that we get tired of looking at the same items every day.

When I would return to these toys months later, they flooded me with renewed joy. Packing away, then rediscovering your summer (and winter) wardrobes has almost same effect as being reunited with your cabbage patch kids, so I highly recommend it!

Besides who has the wardrobe space for both? If you do, I am immensely jealous.

I tend to hold onto blouses and a selection of t-shirts, as well as jeans all year round, but dresses, skirts and trousers that are particularly summery have already been sent to my attic.

Being faced with them in the morning would only make getting dressed more complicated. This, along with the weather app, the right tights and layering should see you through until November.

Still, until then, I wish you luck!

Martha is a Personal Stylist and Image Consultant. To find out more visit www.marthaslookingglass.com or follow Martha on Facebook/Instagram @Martha’sLookingGlass

BE A HALLOWQUEEN  Rachel D’Arcy,

Style Editor ITS THE SPOOKIEST time of the year, and a great excuse to play dress up it doesn’t have to just be for kids, you know!

PrettyLittleThing have a host of costumes for anything you have coming up this October 31st, that’ll take you through a night of trick-or-treating right through to the witching hour itself.

They have outfits that pay homage to some of pop culture’s biggest hits - Ghostbusters, Kill Bill and Edward Scissorhands, to name but

Beauty Review Put some vibrant glam in your daily look COMPANY: BPerfect Cosmetics PRODUCT: Clientele eyeshadow palette TEXTURE:     PERFORMANCE:  PRICE: €39.95

 Rachel D’Arcy, Style Editor WITH SO MANY neutral palettes on the market, it can be difficult to make a choice.

Something a little more unique always catches my eye, with the Clientele palette from Belfast based BPerfect Cosmetics definitely ticking the right boxes.

The palette is released in collaboration with Australian make up artist JAH, so you know that there is a high level of expertise behind it, too.

The 30-shadow palette packs a punch, with an

array of shimmer and pearl finishes and mattes to boot.

The price point is modest for such a large palette - at €39.95, it works out at just over €1.30 a shadow - a bargain if you ask me, given the high quality of the luxe shadows.

Each shadow, even the mattes, feels buttery to the touch, packing a pile of pigment when applied to the skin.

The shimmers are the highlight of this palette, adding a glistening je ne sais quoi to each look.

There’s the bolder, darker coloured shimmers for a night on the town, and lighter neutrals that add just the right amount of pop

a few.

They also few more traditional looks, like their zombie bride costume and a mermaid look, too, if you want something a little less frightening on the night!

To complete the look, PrettyLittleThing have an array of make up and fancy dress bits and bobs - masks, hats, horns and beyond - to make sure you look like a true Halloween Queen.

They even have make up bundles for different looks, to make sure you aren’t missing anything to make you look ghoulgeous!

to a look.

It’s a versatile palette, that truly has lasting power. A look with this palette - composed of both matte and shimmer shadows - lasted me a solid 14 hour day, without a primer.

It’s not bad going for an eyeshadow look, especially considering the price point.

BPerfect are steadily gaining a name for their vibrant palettes and cult products, with this one absolutely no exception to the rule.

The Clientele Palette is available now from BPerfectCosmetics.com, and certain pharmacies nationwide.

17 October 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

latitude&longitude Sector dodged any large change from Budget 2020 BUDGET 2020 brought good and bad news to a wide range of sectors last week, with travel journalist Neil Steedman (inset) offering his opinion on how the budget may affect Ireland’s travel.

LAST week’s budget brought little or no change for the outbound travel industry – and, for some, relief that (whisper it!) a departure tax was not mentioned.

I am reliably informed that at a budget breakfast briefing held last Wednesday morning (October 9) in Limerick by PWC, the word “travel” was never mentioned, which pretty much sums up the overall impact of Budget 2020 on the travel industry.

Changes to people’s disposable incomes will be generally small, either up or down, and will therefore have little or no effect on their decisions about planning outbound travel.

However, if a No Deal Brexit does happen, and remain, the perk of availing of Duty Free on trips to Britain will return – so perhaps the ferry companies will again offer low-priced day trips across the Irish Sea. Pre-Budget 2020, some in the industry were concerned that a departure tax or other financial imposition on air transportation and cruise lines might be included, but this proved not to be.

Airlines and cruise companies come in for growing criticism these days on environmental grounds, but in reality they are making great strides to introduce Greener aircraft and cruise ships – perhaps from environmental concerns, and definitely to reduce their horrendous fuel costs.

Finally, an extra €384 million for the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport in 2020 for “new trams, rail cars, roads and other measures” includes continuing support for regional airports.

However, there are too many airports in this country, but what Irish government is ever going to admit that?

Parish-pump politics demands that money is continually pumped into keeping all of them.

Airlines, meanwhile, are only interested in how many passengers and cargo any airport can give them on an on-going basis.

Neil Steedman fb.me/NeilsTravel News; www.ittn.ie; www.thetraveldirectory.ie

Saudis could face a bit of a hard sell for Irish tourists SHANE DILLON

SAUDI Arabia is currently rolling out an extensive online and media tourism marketing campaign in a bid to highlight the kingdom as a new tourism destination, with the Saudis seeking to modernise and diversify their

OUT AND ABOUT

TRAVEL

A SKIMENDOUS RANGE OF TRIPS Now’s the time to start planning your next snow break – and to make the most of great deals

You could enjoy seven nights at Les Menuires, France from just €745PP

SHANE DILLON

Travel Editor WE’VE yet to make it past Hallowe’en, or even youknow-what just before New Year’s Eve, but many people are already thinking of sloping off on some ski holidays.

Now’s definitely the time to start making tracks towards the season’s snows, with preand post- Christmas ski holidays beginning to get snapped up like hot cakes.

Whether you’re looking to hop over to nearby France or delve deeper into the heart of Europe, Crystal Ski have a wide

economy away from oil reliance.

With some spectacular scenery, a rich and ancient culture, and several incredible UNESCO world sites that have traditionally been restricted for many visitors (with Mecca and Medina still off limits to non-Muslims) more adventurous tourists will find plenty of fascinating sights and sites to see.

However, Saudi Arabia may be something of a hard sell to Irish tourists: continuing state executions and

range of destinations and budgets that will suit any would-be skiier’s budget and interests.

And best of all, there are even savings of €100 available on some selected accomodations, giving you no excuse to hit the snow – but not literally, we hope! (See the contact details at the end.)

The following present a number of choices to suit a Christmas or New Year getaway ...

Christmas • Depart December 21, stay in the four-star Hotel Tyroll, Soll, Austria on a half-board basis for seven

amputations, harsh repression of LGBT+ rights (including executions), still limited restrictions on women’s rights, a strict ban of alcohol, and other significant issues are likely to cast a harsh shadow over tourism – and attracting Irish tourists – for some time to come.

The Westbury nabs another top award UPMARKET city centre hotel

nights, from €1,035PP. • Depart December 21, stay in the three-star Hotel Neige Et Ciel, Les Menuires, France on a half-board basis for seven nights from €745PP. • Depart December 21, stay in the three-star Hotel La Flaine, Flaine, France on a half-board basis for seven nights from €4,136 (for two adults and two children under 11 years).

• Depart December 22, stay in the two-star Manzano Apartments, Pas De La Casa, Andorra on a selfcatering basis for seven nights from €365PP(four sharing).

The Westbury has added yet another prestigious feather to its immaculately appointed cap by being named the Best Hotel in Ireland for the second year in a row.

Despite some very impressive challengers for the title, Conde Nast Traveler announced the results of its 32nd annual Readers’ Choice awards last week, with the D2 hotel triumphing over all manner of luxurious country hotels and rural spa retreats.

The awards are the longest-running and most pres-

New Year • Depart December 29, stay in the three-star Hotel Paradiso, Passo Tonale, Italy on a half-board basis for seven nights from €3,490 (for two adults and one child under 11 years).

• Depart December 29, stay in the two-star Cesa Rotic, Val Di Fassa, Italy on a B&B basis for seven nights from €899PP. • Depart January 4, stay in the three-star, Hotel Modlinger, Soll, Austria on a B&B basis for seven nights from €749PP. • Depart January 19, stay in the three-star Hotel Xalet Besoli, Arinsal, Andorra, on a half-board

tigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry, with this year’s awards seeing a record number of responses raiting their travel experiences – more than

basis for seven nights from €535PP. •Depart January 25, stay in the three-star Garni Edelweis, Mayrhofen, Austria on a B&B basis for seven nights from €665PP. • Depart January 26, stay in the three-star Olimpiades, Pas De La Casa, Andorra on a self-catering basis for seven nights from €519PP. All deals include flights from Dublin, 20kg luggage and transfer.

For full details on these and other offers, and for the full range of T&Cs, see www.crystalski.ie or telephone 01 653 3501.

600,000 of them.

The Dublin win wasn’t the only impressive Irish name on the list – acclaimed Adare Manor, in Co Limerick, won the Best Resorts Europe title.

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 October 2019

MOTORS

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT

All-new Mazda CX-30 to be available from next January

Skoda – Superb by name ...

SKODA’s Superb was first launched back in Ireland in 2001 and has become one of the brand’s bestselling models, with more than 18,000 Superb vehicles currently on Irish roads.

The new Skoda Superb is the third and most successful version, and has been extensively revised both inside and out.

Available in a Combi (Estate) and Saloon (Lift back) versions, Skoda has slightly modified the

exterior of the Superb and has carefully refined the front section.

The redesigned front bumper means the car’s length has increased by 8mm to 4,869 mm in the Superb, and by 6mm to 4,862 mm in the Superb Combi.

The engine line-up features 1.5 TSI petrol units producing 150bhp, offered with 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG automatic transmissions.

The diesel offering

includes a heavily revised 2.0 TDI 150bhp engine with new turbo charger and intercooler configuration, combined with new crankshaft and injector arrangement.

The new Superb also offers a spacious 625 and 660 litres of luggage capacity in the Lift back and Combi respectively The Superb update includes new technologies, such as full LED Matrix headlights, available for the first time in a

Skoda production model, and featuring as standard on SportLine and L&K models.

Several new assistance systems are also making their debut, such as Pre-

dictive Cruise Control.

The Superb is on sale now with 1.5 TSI, 150bhp Ac t ive p r i c e s f r o m €30,750, and PCP finance available from 0% (up to October 31).

MAZDA has announced the price and specification of its all-new Mazda CX-30 compact SUV, which will arrive for customer orders in January.

Revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March, the Mazda CX-30 enters a new market segment for Mazda, slotting into the firm’s award-winning SUV range between the CX-3 and CX-5.

Available in four trim levels, the new Mazda CX-30 features Mazda’s generous standard equipment across the entire range, and is offered in Ireland with a choice of a 1.8 diesel engine and two petrol engines, both of which feature the 24v Mazda M Hybrid mild-hybrid system.

Raw power, combined with low CO2 emissions and flexible performance with a power output of 180ps, offers a perfect solution for drivers of all mileage requirements.

With a choice of nine exterior colours, 16-inch and 18-inch wheels are standard, depending on model variant.

Premium dark grey cloth with navy blue accents is standard, while GT and GT Sport models feature black- or stone-coloured leather with rich brown accents.

Display vehicles are now available to view in Mazda showrooms for customers to view and pre-order, priced from €29,495 to €43,115.

New Toyota Corolla Saloon Hybrid is quietly confident DECLAN GLYNN

IN A car market in love with hatchbacks, estates and SUVs, the new Toyota Corolla Saloon may seem like a brave move by the Japanese car manufacturing giant.

However, the saloon edition of the ‘World’s Best-Selling Car’ is a rational and well-resolved proposition, which is capturing the hearts of saloon car buyers across Ireland.

The new Corolla Saloon sits on the longer of the two Corolla wheelbases, so it does offer the same slightly larger rear cabin as the Touring Sports estate.

It’s sure to attract current Toyota Avensis owners (following the end of its life-cycle last year), along with conquest customers from rival brands too.

The new Corolla Saloon Hybrid (self-charging) comes with a full

complement of trim levels – Aura, Luna, Luna Sport, and Sol – with a 1.8-litre petrol-electric powertrain producing 122bhp and impressive torque for an instant rush of acceleration.

All models in the Toyota Corolla Hybrid family come with an electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), and it contributes greatly to the excellent fuel economy achievable across the range.

Toyota claim that, with a light approach to the throttle, the Corolla Hybrid could manage as much as half of its urban mileage without using any petrol at all – a very appealing factor for the vast majority of motorists these days.

My review car was a Corolla Saloon Hybrid in Luna Sport specification, and it looked terrific in Ultra Silver metallic paint.

All trim levels in the Corolla range come very well equipped with a seriously impressive list of features, with the Luna Sport also impressing with ease.

Capable of sprinting from 0-100km/h in just 11.0-seconds, the Corolla Saloon Hybrid can reach a top speed of 180km/h, and can return a fuel consumption figure as low as 3.4l/100km (up to 83mpg), while annual road tax is just €180.

Pricing for the new Toyota Corolla Saloon Hybrid starts at a very reasonable €26,820 (ex-delivery).

FACT BOX

1) Strikingly handsome 2) Terrific interior space 3) Outstanding fuel efficiency 4) Self-charging Hybrid 5) Priced from €26,820

The self-charging Hybrid offers an impressive mix of tech, power, style and comfort

17 October 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

A GUIDE TO TEMPTING FARE

Super savings to be had on your shopping PADRIAG CONLON

SUPERVALU recently made me an offer I couldn’t refuse to coincide with the launch of their biggest ever price cuts campaign.

They offered me the chance to experience first-hand how big their price cuts are, by taking part in a shopping challenge at Ballinteer Supervalu.

I was invited to complete my weekly grocery shop and while I was filling my trolley, a staff m e m b e r f ro m Balinteer Supervalu shadowed me, picking up the same product’s only in the Supervalu brand, the aim being to see the difference in price.

I began with the old reliables, bread, milk, cereal, and early on started to notice a massive difference between the prices.

I don’t usually shop in Supervalu, so I wasn’t really aware they did so many of their own brand products.

As well as various food items, I got a full range of products from c a t food t o

nappies and ground coffee to cleaning products, to test if there was much of a difference.

When I was finished shopping both trolleys were brought to the tills, and we scanned through all items at the same time.

I was genuinely surprised by what the scanners revealed!

My trolley of items came to €124.46 while the SuperValu branded trolley of equivalent items came in at €66.44!

A s av i n g o f nearly 50% was not what I was expecting to be honest.

Next came the taste test. I took all the food items back to the work canteen to get the opinion from my colleagues at Dublin Gazette who all have impeccable taste!

Over the following week the Supervalu own brand cheese, ham, yogurt, lasagne, soup, pizza were all enjoyed by my colleagues with not one dissenting voice heard regarding any difference in taste from their branded equivalents.

Own brand products used to be dismissed as the “cheap option” and undoubtedly were very different taste wise, but the recent move towards signature own brand ranges is changing shoppers’ attitudes.

This quality is evident with the number of awards that the SuperValu range has won over the years. I am informed that at the recent Great Taste Awards, 64 Supervalu products won awards, a result the supermarket chain is rightly proud of.

We could honestly not find any huge difference taste wise between the Supervalu own brand products and the branded items, however the €58.02 saving was very noticeable!

Thank you to Balinteer Supervalu for inviting Dublin Gazette to take part in the challenge.

A spot-on pint, served

in a pub that’s an attraction IT’S not often you come across a real local pub in the heart of the city, but here lies the Dame Tavern.

All walks of life claim residence to this ever popular front bar located at the busy crossroads of The Mercantile and The Stag’s Head.

Unlike its neighbours, they don’t really don’t put too much emphasis on their decor or service.

It’s a simple, old-fashioned, snug-style bar that lashes out pints, live music and bar staff that love an aul’ bit of craic back and forward – that’s it in a nut shell.

The pint was very good; it could have had more cream and held its volume for longer, but it tasted spot-on.

The picture doesn’t do it justice – my apologies! If you are having a pint in that area, it’s the clear frontrunner to jump into. @guinnessadvisor

The Dame Tavern, 18 Dame Court, Dublin 2

FOOD & DRINK Meet the Food Producer’ – Edizemi Onilenla – Aka Mama Shee A FOOD producer from Sandyford has launched a brand new product bringing the taste of Africa to Ireland.

Edizemi Onilenla (pictured), aka Mama Shee, is a Nigerian born food producer and has been living in Ireland over 17 years.

Her passion for food combined with the desire to bring a taste of Africa into the Irish Culture inspired me to start her business.

“I have lived in Ireland for over 17 years. During this period, I had developed Kilishi (beef Jerky) using tra-

ditional West African recipes blended with Irish cooking styles to introduce a taste of West African food culture that I highly cherished, to the Irish consumers.”

The product is said to be very tasty and addictive and has so far been received very well.

“At my first tasting last Saturday in Deansgrange, it was very interesting experience. We sold out all that was on the shelf,” said the mum-of-three.

For more information see www.mamashee.com

Hats off to Domino’s DOMINO’S has collaborated with respected Milliner, Margaret O’Connor to create a bespoke head piece to celebrate the opening of the new store in Leopardstown, the home of horseracing and Ladies Days.

The wide brimmed, monochrome, perforated pleather hat measures 68cm in diameter and takes inspiration from the Domino’s logo.

The unique piece will be donated to charity partner Barretstown for auction and is expected to reach in excess of its value of €1,200 at their 25th Anniversary Gala Ball.

Michele McGrath models Domino’s headpiece for Leopardstown

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 October 2019

DUBLIN SENIORS

This week, we look at payments for older people, as well as looking after your hearing and protecting against falls

How to look after your hearing HEARING can become impaired with advanced age. Here you will find information on the signs and causes of hearing loss and how you can cope with it.

Your ear is divided into three sections: the outer ear, the middle ear and the inner ear. Sounds go through the outer ear, pass through the middle ear and are processed by the inner ear, before being sent to the brain.

Signs of hearing loss • Turning up the volume on the TV or radio so loudly it disturbs others • Having to ask people to repeat what they say, or to speak more loudly • Being unable to hear conversations properly when in social situations • Not hearing the doorbell or telephone • Finding it hard to hear people when speaking on the telephone.

You should never attempt to remove wax from your ear by inserting cotton buds or fingers into your ear as this may

cause pain, infection or deafness. Hearing loss usually develops gradually and painlessly and can be due to a variety of causes, including, exposure to loud or constant noise, the ageing process and illness.

Hearing aids Following your hearing test, it may be recommended that you use a hearing aid.

This device helps make sounds clearer and is useful if you still have some hearing, as it may enhance your ability to hear sounds around you. However, it won’t replace hearing that has been lost.

If you are a Medical Card holder, you are entitled to a free hearing aid. If you do not have a medical card, your hearing aid clinic will put you in touch with suppliers of hearing aids, and you will have to pay for your hearing aid yourself.

However, you may get funding for your hearing aid under the Treatment Benefit Scheme, which is run by the Department of Social and Family Affairs.

Protect yourself against falls

HAVING a slip, trip or fall is something that happens to all of us during our lives.

As you get older, falls may occur more often, and you may be more likely to hurt yourself when it happens.

The HSE provides some very useful tips on how seniors can prevent injuries caused by falls.

Healthy eyes Poor eyesight or changes to your eyesight can put you at risk of falling: Get your eyes tested regularly, at least once every two years.

Exercise You are more likely to fall if you have weak muscles or poor balance. But you can help yourself by taking regular exercise, as this builds up your muscles and makes your bones stronger. It even improves your balance.

Healthy Feet Foot problems can contribute to increased risk of falling, so make sure your footwear is comfortable and visit a chiropodist, podiatrist or doctor if you are having problems with your feet.

Try walking, light gardening, dancing, swimming or aqua aerobics daily.

Avoid sitting down for long periods of time and keep on the move Lighting - make sure your house is well lit, especially the stairs, hallway, entrances and exits.

Handrails – use handrails on both sides of the stairs and in the bathroom to keep your balance.

Flooring – avoid loose rugs or mats. Plain, light coloured carpets are best on stairs so you can see the steps more clearly.

All falls are potentially serious, so make sure to see your doctor afterwards.

Payments for older people The State Pension (Contributory) is paid to people from the age of 66 who have enough social insurance contributions. It is not means tested.

You can have other income and get a State Pension (Contributory). If you have worked in Ireland and one or more EU states, you may qualify for a pension from both countries.

If you do not qualify for a State Pension (Contributory), you can apply for the means-tested State Pension (Non-Contributory).

It is only paid to people living in Ireland. You must be aged 66 or over and satisfy both a habitual residence test and a means test to qualify.

Some payments are paid to people with short-

term illnesses. Most illness and disability payments stop when you reach the age of 66, and you may then qualify for a State pension Extra payments Everyone aged over 70 who is resident in the State qualifies for the Household Benefits Package. Some people aged under 70 also qualify for the package.

The Household Benefits Package consists of a gas or electricity allowance and free television licence.

The Living Alone Increase is a weekly supplementary payment made to people getting certain social welfare payments who are living alone.

The National Fuel Scheme (Fuel Allowance) helps households that depend on longterm social welfare payments to pay for heating in winter.

People getting a social welfare pension automatically get an increase in their pension, when they reach the age of 80.

If you reach the age of 100, you may get the Centenarian Bounty. This is an award made by the President of Ireland to people living in Ireland (regardless of nationality).

You can also get information on all the topics covered in this guide from the network of Citizens Information Centres and from the national Citizens Information Phone Service on 0761 07 4000.

17 October 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!

CODEWORDS

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PUZZLES

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MODERATE

SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK BACK NEXT WEEK FOR THE SOLUTIONS TO THIS WEEK’S PUZZLES

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HOW TO SOLVE Codewords are like crossword puzzles - but have no clues! Instead, every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number, the same number representing the same letter throughout the puzzle.

All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number!

To start you off, we reveal the codes for two or three letters.

As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid.

Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

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CAMOGIE P32

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

HARPS STAY UP GAELIC FOOTBALL: SKERRIES Harps

powered through after extra time before accounting for St. Brigid’s at St Margarets on Sunday afternoon, as after a tight game it was Harps Footballers who maintain their Senior ‘A’ Championship status for next season.

Although starting without captain Sean Rocks and Donnacha Reilly, Skerries were full value for victory.



GAZETTE

GAELIC FOOTBALL P28

PAGE 31

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS AFL | DUBS MAKE IMPACT AT EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Irish Banshees deliver another Euro crown  CÓILÍN DUFFY

sport@dublingazette.com

DUBLIN quartet Aimee Clarke, Ali Coleman, Sinead Comerford and Lauren Manning were part of the Irish Banshees team that retained European Aussie Rules Womens silverware in wet and mucky conditions at Wimbledon Park, London on Saturday.

The Irish side coached by Mike Currane didn’t concede a score in the lead-up to the final, with wins over Great Britain (10-10 to 0-0); Germany (8-9 to 0-0), Great Britain (8-10 to 0-0) and Germany (4-10 to 0-0) in a group stages format which saw them play each team twice.

They continued their strong form in the decider, with inter-county Ladies Gaelic Footballers Kim Flood from Louth (6) and Leitrim’s Aine Tighe (3) to the fore in the goal-scoring stakes.

Mella Morey captained the side to victory for the second year in a row, thanks to a 13-27 to 0-0 win over Ger-

many in the decider as Ireland claimed their seventh Euro Cup title in nine years.

Leinster Rugby player Clarke, and Castleknock duo Comerford and Manning along with Foxrock-Cabinteely player Ali Coleman were all impressive for the Banshees throughout the tournament.

80 minutes was tough going, but the girls were working really hard,” the Kerry native told the Dublin Gazette after the game.

“We prepared really well for this competition and we got through it with a nice big win for us today.

“There was no pressure on ourselves, but we did want to get the lead in the game and let Germany know that we meant business.”

Indeed the Irish Banshees have only lost three games since 2014 – and were unbeaten in the current competition in the lead-up to the final.

“The sport has really grown in Ireland, there’s a lot of new clubs (includ-

Irish Banshees Captain Mella Morey is lifted high after Euro Aussie Rules win.

Picture: Cóilín Duffy

ing the Cill Dara Sharks) and we are building the squad all the time.”

Mella said it was brilliant to captain her country to victory.

“It’s a huge privilege and a great honour to captain Ireland, it’s just fantastic!”

The Irish Warriors mens team came third, with an 11-14 to 0-2 win over

Croatia in the third/fourth playoff.

The Irish squad featured Gene Casey, Kevin Hanlon and Gavin Murray from the South Dublin Swans.

Dublin native Liam Burns who plays with the Manchester Mosquitoes also featured and was one of four Irish players honoured in the Men’s Team of the Tournament on Saturday night.

SPORT CONTACT INFO SPORTS EDITOR: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@dublingazette.com Phone: 01 601 0240

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 17 October 2019

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

1

ST BRIGID’S ALL roads lead to Parnell Park this Sunday afternoon as our Senior Hurlers face Cuala in the Dublin Senior Hurling Final (20th October) at 4pm! Great excitement in store as we build up for the final so make sure to show your support for Johnny and lads! Tickets are available online http://dublingaa. tickets.ie or at participating Centra or SuperValu Stores. Pre-purchased stand tickets are €18 for adults and €3 for Children, with terrace €13 for adults and €3 for Children. Tickets bought on the day are €2 dearer each. Check the website for Student/Senior Citizen concessions The 1 to 1000 draw will take place in the clubhouse on Sunday evening after the County Final.

Well done to our Senior Ladies Footballers, Minor A Hurlers, AFL 5 Footballers and AFL10 all of whom recorded great wins over the weekend!

Another busy week ahead with plenty of camogie and juvenile action this week also! Fixture details and times on our website and Twitter.

Thanks to all those who attended our Transition Year Work Placement Initiative Meeting for club TY students and their parents on Monday.

There was no winner of our Club Lotto Jackpot last week. Our next Jackpot rises to €6,200 and will take place this Thursday, 17th October in Russell Park. Get your tickets from our usual sellers, in the club bar on play online via our website!

Club nursery Our Club Nursery, in association with Sherry Fitzgerald continues this Saturday morning, 19th October from 9.30am! We welcome our new GPO, Colm Schwer who is already doing great work. All boys and girls aged between 4 and 7 are welcome, especially new families! Just arrive down and speak to any of our friendly coaches or email us at; Pro. stbrigids.dublin@gaa.ie for more information.

Juvenile Handball Training, which is open to current and new juvenile players, continues every Wednesday evening at 7pm in Russell Park! We’ll have our Handball Coaches on hand to support all new players and introduce them to the game!

Everyone is welcome!

It is with great sadness that St Brigids learned of the passing of Oliver Cussen. Oliver has had a huge association with St Brigid’s GAA Club, particularly with our hurling section and has been involved with numerous teams over the years, most recently as mentor to our Junior Hurling Championship winning side in 2018.

The Trustees and members of St. Brigids wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the Cussen Family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

ERIN GO BRAGH TICKETS are now available (€60) for our End of Season Ball and Club Awards which take place on November 16th next from 7pm until late at the Castleknock Hotel. Welcome

drinks on arrival; a delicious 3-course meal; Live Entertainment with Marvin & The Grooves followed by a Live DJ. There will also be a raffle on the night with prizes.

SOCCER: PRIDE FOR SHAMROCK ROVERS DEFENDER AS ‘PICO’ PLAYS

Roberto has a oui breath to take in his overseas debut SOCCER  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

CRUMLIN native, Roberto Lopes expressed his immense pride on making his debut for Cape Verde over the weekend.

The Shamrock Rovers defender, whose father was born in the African country, played 90 minutes in a friendly with Togo in Marseilles as the island nation ran out 2-1 winners.

‘Pico’ has been in exceptional form for the Hoops this season, and underlined his international credentials with a series of top-class performances in Europa League qualifying.

He headed home crucial goals in games against SK Brann and Apollon Limassol – fittingly getting on the end of crosses from Ireland call-up Jack Byrne – and helped them to next

month’s FAI Cup final.

Still, he was somewhat taken aback when approached on LinkedIn by the Cape Verde coach, t h e Po r t u g u e s e Ru i Aguas, with a view to linking up with his father’s birthplace.

“It still hasn’t really sunk in that I’m an international footballer,” a beam ing Lopes told Dublin Gazette.

“It’s incredible. After the first game it really hit me how proud I was to represent my family, and it really sunk in.

“Coming home now, everyone is congratulating me, and my mam and my dad are just buzzing over it. Just to be a part of that, bringing that little bit of joy to the family, it’s great and a bit surreal for me.”

He continued: “It came out of the blue, to be honest with you. I had a message on LinkedIn from Picture: Maxwells

ST FINIAN’S WE ARE proud to support the Irish Cancer Society’s current campaign ‘Cups for Cancer’. All proceeds for this Saturday mornings coffee shop at the club will be going directly to the ICS. The annual valley walk for cancer is taking place later in the day so why not come in for a cuppa and a chat.

Dublin Senior Football manager Jim Gavin with his Signify Manager of the Month award for September

the manager – I remember connecting with him a while back there.

“I got a message and I didn’t really read it, because it was in Portuguese – I thought it was a welcome message or spam, so I took no notice of it.

“He sent me another message in English then to see if I thought about it, so I translated it then and it was saying they

were looking to get new players in the squad.

“He asked if I would be interested in declaring for Cape Verde. I said of course I would, because I’ve looked at it in the past and didn’t really get anywhere.

“Once he said that, I did what I needed to do, and it snowballed from there. Next I knew, they were onto the club and I was off to France with

them.”

The 27-year-old is full-time at Rovers but recently qualified as a personal trainer – a profession he hopes to pursue further when he eventually hangs up his boots.

Lopes, a former pupil of Drimnagh Castle CBS, admits the language barrier was a bit of an issue at first as, while many of the Cape Verde players

Gavin gets top Sports gong JIM Gavin has been honoured as the ‘Signify Manager of the Month’ for September.

It comes after Dublin’s All-Ireland Senior Football Final replay win over Kerry on September 14, as they claimed a never before achieved five-in-a-row of Sam Maguire Cup wins.

Gavin has had a distinguished football career, having won the 1995 All-Ireland SFC as a player.

“I’m just delighted for the players”

he said. “Their true character shone between and during the replay to produce a super performance against an excellent Kerry team” It’s not the first time for the Round Towers, Clondalkin club man to receive this honour, formerly known as the Philips Sports Manager of the Month award.

Gavin picked up the corresponding accolate in 2018, and was Manager of the Year in 2013.

17 October 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

IN MARSEILLES

CRICKET: GREEN ARMY FALL SHORT IN BACK-TO-BACK GAMES

Ireland lose Scottish warm-up in Dubai ICC T20 WORLD CUP QUALIFER WARM-UP sport@dublingazette.com

speak English, among themselves they speak Creole.

“All the staff speak English and there is plenty of players that speak English, but when everyone is together in a group, they speak Creole, a mixture of Portuguese

and the native language.

“It was a bit daunting because I had to get used to that and pick up bits of the language as I went, but by the first game I was well-settled in, and able to enjoy myself and speak a bit of Creole myself,” he said.

FOR the second match in a row between Ireland and Scotland the result has been a 1-run victory – this time to the Scots - after a courageous run chase saw the men in green defeated by the barest of margins in an ICC T20 World Cup Qualifier warm-up match on Tuesday in Dubai.

After losing the toss, Ireland bowled first on what seemed a battingfriendly track. The Scots top-order fired, and were 78-0 in the 7th over before the first wicket fell. The main damage was done

by George Munsey who hit 86 runs from 41 balls – an innings which included five sixes.

A quickfire 39 from 18 balls by Oli Hairs continued the momentum, but the middle-order succumbed to improved bowling, at one stage losing 5-47.

For Ireland, David Delany returned to the side after missing the Oman series with an impressive 3-35, while spinners George Dockrell (2-36) and Gareth Delany (1-33) helped pull the run rate back.

Ireland’s response did not start well, losing Kevin O’Brien first ball for a duck, but soon gathered momentum.

Led by Andy Balbirnie (70 from 48 balls), and supported by Gareth Delany (20 from 9 balls), Harry Tector (22 from 9 balls) and Gary Wilson (22 from 14 balls), the Irish batters kept pace with the run rate required into the middle-overs.

Momentum stalled just after the halfway mark of the run chase, and it took a powerful innings late on

by Mark Adair (45 from 24 balls) to get Ireland within a single hit of an unlikely victory.

Needing three runs from two balls, Adair fell from the penultimate ball, while David Delany was run out of the last ball making an attempt to get back for two and force a tie. Ireland’s 209-9 was an admirable chase, but agonisingly short, with Scotland prevailing by one run.

Ireland have a busy schedule of games in the coming weeks.

They have back to back matches at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi this weekend.

Irel and fa ce Ho ng Kong on Friday with an 11.10am start Irish time,

Under-20s deliver a Cool’ win over Newbridge rivals U20’S RUGBY Coolmine Newbridge sport@dublingazette.com

74 5

COOLMINE Under-20s rugby team opened their league campaign with a strong performance against visitors, Newbridge.

The hosts got off to a good start with the forwards dominating and providing the backs with quality run-

ning ball.

Big carries and quick ruck ball allowed good interplay by all the players, enabled a bonus point early on. All the hard pre-season work and the three previous friendly games was paying off.

A number of changes were made at half time, and after a period of settlement Coolmine were up and running again.

One of the most pleasing things of

the day was that the skill and performance levels were main-tained right to the end.

With both new and returning players on the scoresheet, Coolmine showed its strength with the panel now becoming a display of squad depth building.

The season is long, and Coolmine therefore need to continue building, attracting more players and further raise its standards.

Ireland lost out for the second match in a run to Scotland, at the start of a hectic schedule over the next fortnight in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

while on Saturday they take on UAE at the same venue with a 4.30pm start in Ireland. Both games are

live on Sky Sports Cricket.

On Monday next Ireland take on Oman in the ADC1 in Abu Dhabi

before games against Canada, Jersey and Nigeria between then and October 26 next.

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 17 October 2019

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

2

FINGALLIANS OUR Junior footballers bowed out of the championship with a 3 -10 to 0 -10 defeat v Kilmacud Crokes. Next up is our Senior Footballers league game at home to Na Fianna on Wednesday 23rd October.

Fingallians victorious Dublin Junior championship winning hurlers begin their Leinster campaign with an away trip to Clara of Offaly this Saturday in O’Connor Park, Tullamore at 3 pm.

The Annual Club AGM takes place on Thursday November 28th at 8.30pm.

Further details are to follow.

The club will run an Irish language course (Beginners grade, level 2) on Thursday evenings (20:15 - 21:00) between October and December. Cost will be €50 for 10 week course, payable on first week. Commencing Thursday 3rd October. Ar oscailt do chách, scaip an scéal. Further info from Liam-086 3814422.

This years Annual Dublin GAA Mass will take place on Tuesday 12th November at 7.30pm in the County Board Offices in Parnell Park. (light refreshments will be served after).

The Irish Conversation Group meet in the club bar each Wednesday at 9 for the cúpla focal agus an craic. Tá an grúpa ar oscailt do chách agus saor in aisce. Bíonn fáilte roimh baill nua i gcónaí. Tuilleadh eolas ó Liam-086 3814422.

Fingallians are in the process of starting a Darts team. This is a final opportunity for any additional players. You do not have to be a current member.

Ask Mark at the bar for further information.

The Academy and Club Siopa will continue every Saturday from 10am.

Registration from 9.45am. Only €3 per week per player. Coffee dock is open at the club bar from 10am.

In place of Monday Night dancing this week we have Johnny Brady and his band appearing at the Club on Friday 18th October. Doors open at 8.30pm.

Na hUimhreacha Buaiteach Lotó: 3,8,11,27 agus 29. We had five winners, Graham Caffrey, Eamon Reilly, Maura Hesse, Lily Woods and Anna Neville.

The jackpot this Tuesday is € 2012.

SKERRIES HARPS WELL done to the Senior Footballers, who defeated St Brigids on Sunday to maintain SFC “A” Championship status for 2020.

The Junior Footballers also progressed to next stage of the Championship with a home win over Lucan Sarsfields.

Congrats to the Minor ladies who defeated Man O War in Div 3 Championship on Sat to secure a Semi Final place, and to our Under 13 and Under 14 Ladies Footballers who both progressed to Championship finals following semi-final wins over St Maurs and Raheny over the weekend. The Under 16 DIvision 1 Footballers defeated St Brigids at home on Sat 12th and now progress to the A Championship Quarter Final.

Congratulations to Lyndsey Davey on winning the Croke Park/LGFA Player of the Month for September!

Well deserved !

On Saturday 5th October Skerries Harps GAA and Camogie Club was recognised as an Official Healthy Club at an event in Croke Park, along with only nine other Dublin Clubs. Well done to our Health & Wellbeing officer Jackie and all involved. We will continue to work on this initiative within Skerries harps, so for more information contact pro. skerriesharps.dublin@gaa.ie or check out the following:- www.gaa.ie/my-gaa/communityand-health/healthy-club Skerries Harps present ‘The Chaser’ on Sunday 27th October at City North Hotel 8pm sharp. The Chaser’s are in place and are preparing well for our big event - only 13

days to go and tickets are flying out.

Teams have received an allocation of tickets so if you have not contacted Joanne/ Denise please contact your team mentors for details asap.

Alternatively to purchase tickets, please contact Joanne 086 4058523 or Denise 087 2843590. Group tickets admit 4 adults for only €60 and single tickets €20.

Buses have been arranged to take you to the event and home ! €10 return, tickets can be purchased from Joanne /Denise also. Bus tickets will be on sale in the clubhouse form 21.10 at assigned times watch our social media page for info.

Zingo result 5713642. No winners of Jackpot - 2 winners shared the dividend of €600 - Congrat sto Aengus Casey & Maxie Davis.

Sunday 20th, Jackpot will be a fantastic €7200. Envelopes still €2 or 3 for a fiver. Thanks to all who support the Zingo every week. Play online at www.skerriesharps.ie/zingo,. Next draw on Sunday at 7pm.

Academy continues Sat 20 Oct from 10-11:30am - Volunteers needed to help out with tea/coffee in the Clubhouse- email pro. skerriesharps.dublin@gaa.ie if you have an hour to help out on a Sat morning.

The Club extends its deepest sympathy to Irene & Stuart Bund, on the recent passing of Irene’s mother , Peggy (Mary) Roche. May she rest in peace.

We also extend our sympathy to the extended Coleman family on the passing of Patrick (Pat) Coleman RIP.

BASKETBALL : MERCY REMAIN UNBEATEN

DCU Mercy continue winning Superleague run  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

DCU Mercy remain the sole unbeaten side in the Women’s Super League as they held out for a 77-70 victory over WIT Wildcats on Saturday.

Mercy pulled away in the final quarter of a tense game to move three points clear of their Waterford counterparts at the top of the table.

Wildcats led 36-31 at the half but scores from Meredith Burkhall in the closing stages allowed them to maintain their flawless record.

Sarah Woods topscored for DCU with 24 points, while Ashley Russell and Meredith managed 15 apiece as Mercy took charge at the top of the table.

It’s back on the road for Mercy next week as they travel south to face Carlow IT looking to maintain their perfect record.

Mercy’s Senior 2 side were also victorious as they saw off the challenge of Rathmines 62-52 ahead of their Dublin

Cup opener with UCD on Thursday.

DCU Saints fell to their second defeat of the Men’s Super League season as they were comprehensively seen off 104-60

by Garvey’s Tralee Warriors.

The reigning champions led 62-25 at the halfway point and, though Saints put up a better show in the second half, extended their lead to put their second win of the season on the board.

Elsewhere in the men’s league, DBS Éanna kept up their 100% start to the season with a 94-74 win over hometown rivals Killester Pyrobel.

The newly-promoted s i d e f ro m B a l l y ro a n opened up a 24-14 lead in the final quarter despite a number of players coming into the game on the back of illness.

Their relentless tempo, and the high scoring of Marko Tomic with 17 and both Neil Lynch and Paris Ballingar bagging 14, saw them lead by 19 going in the last quarter.

Abbey Seals Dublin

HOCKEY’S HOME New Centre for Irish Hockey opens

MINISTER for Sport Shane Ross, T.D. with Irish hockey players Katie Mullan and Deirdre Duke at the opening of the Sport Ireland Hockey Training Centre at the Sport Ireland Campus. The new state of the art hockey provides a welcome boost to Ireland’s national hockey teams ahead of their upcoming Tokyo 2020 qualifiers. The Polytan Polygras Toyko GT surface is the same as that being used at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games and the 2022 World Cup. PIcture: David Fitzgerald / SPORTSFILE

Meredith Burkhall, left, and Ashely Russell of DCU Mercy. Picture: David Fitzgerald SPORTSFILE

Lions were defeated 100-82 by the only other unbeaten side, Coughlan C&S Neptune, in Cork.

UCD Marian edged a tight game with Moycullen 79-73, while Griffth College Templeogue were 108-79 winners over Killorglin.

In the women’s league, defending champions Liffey Celtics made it two wins from three as they ran out 76-70 winners over Maree in Galway.

Pyrobel Killester were also victorious beating Marble City Hawks by 69-45 in Clontarf.

17 October 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 31

GAELIC FOOTBALL: FIRST HALF GOALS A KILLER FOR CASTLEKNOCK

FOOTBALL

Harps best after extra-time SFC RELEGATION P-OFF Skerries Harps St. Brigids (After Extra-time)

Ciarán Kilkenny of Castleknock fields a ball during Sunday’s SFC 1 quarter-final against Thomas Davis at Parnell Park.

Picture: Niall O’Connell/@KnockPhotos

Castleknock’d out of Senior Championship SENIOR 1 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP QF Thomas Davis Castleknock  KEVIN MALLON sport@dublingazette.com

3-12 1-17

THE concession of three goals, two in 30 first-half seconds and a third 45 seconds after the restart, proved too much of a handicap for Castleknock to overcome in this frustrating SFC QuarterFinal against Thomas Davis in the last of the quarter-finals at Parnell Park on Sunday afternoon.

Those goals left Castleknock chasing the game and there was only one point in it at the end, Thomas Davis’s massed defence did enough to hold on in the final minutes.

At the end of the first quarter, Castleknock looked well in control leading by 0-5 0-3.

Classy points from Tommy McDaniel (3), Ciaran Kilkenny and Shane Boland suggested a productive afternoon until Thomas Davis rattled the Castleknock crossbar and Morven Connolly had to make a brilliant smothering save to prevent a goal on the follow-up.

Encouraged by those chances, Thomas Davis poured forward and twice within 30 seconds they opened up the Castleknock defence to score vital goals.

The first on 19 minutes was an excellent team goal finished by Ryan Deegan and the second scored by Ciarán Farrelly came straight from the kick-out,

to turn the game on its head, giving Thomas Davis a five-point lead 0-5 2-4.

Castleknock’s response was everything the large travelling support could have hoped for.

Within a minute, a sweeping Castleknock move found Tommy McDaniel and he fired the ball to the Thomas Davis net.

Between then and half-time Gerard McDermottroe hit three fine points to leave Castleknock well in it at the interval trailing by just two points 1-8 2-7.

However, disaster struck a mere 45 seconds after the restart when Brendan Kirby scored a third Thomas Davis goal leaving Castleknock with a huge mountain to climb.

Try as they did in that second-half,

Castleknock simply couldn’t close that five point gap.

Gerard McDermottroe brought his impressive total to seven points. Rob Shaw went forward to punch a point which was added to by further points from Shane Boland, Ciaran Kilkenny, Seamus O’Carroll (45’) and sub Tom Shields, but Castleknock found it impossible to break down the blanket Thomas Davis defence and land that all important equaliser.

A hugely frustrating end to what had so far been a very successful year. Div.2 League Champions and of 19 league and championship matches Castleknock won 17 but unfortunately that good run ends at the quarter-final stage of the Senior Football Championship.

Owens lands ambassador role with Trinity College Sport DUBLIN Ladies Footballer and Trinity Alumna Nicole Owens has been announced as a brand ambassador for Trinity Sport to recognise her achievements as part of the three times All-Ireland Senior Champions.

She joins fellow Trinity Alumni on the Trinity Sport ambassador programme including Mark Pollock (motivational speaker and adventurer), Ailish Egan (former Irish Rugby international), Ed Joyce (Head coach of Ireland’s women’s cricket team) and Hugo MacNeill (former British & Irish Lions Rugby Union international).

“I have many great memories from my time at Trinity College Dublin, especially from my Trinity playing days when we won the Giles Cup in fourth year,” Nicole said.

“I’ve always had a connection to Trinity as both my parents graduated from here as well, it is a great honour to be back as a brand ambassador for Trinity Sport.”

For more information follow Trinity Sport on Facebook @TrinityCollegeDublinSport; Twitter @tcdsports; Instagram @tcdsport or visit https://www.tcd.ie/Sport/

1-20 1-14

IT took extra time to seperate these sides at St Margarets on Sunday afternoon, but after a tight game it was Skerries Harps who maintain their A Championship status for next season.

Although starting without captain Sean Rocks and Donnacha Reilly, Skerries were full value for victory.

Killian McGinnis was on fire for Harps with three points inside five minutes and would go on to kick a total of 10 points. He was closely followed by Ciaran Murphy who scored five. Skerries led 0 -4 to 0 -2 after ten minutes but conceded a goal.

Colin Daly quickly levelled and a goal

by Kevin Gilmore had Harps 1 – 6 to 1 -3 up after 20 minutes, but Brigid’s pulled it back to cut the gap to a point at the break.

It was 15 minutes into the second half before Brigids nosed in front for the first time 1 -10 to 1 -9 and the teams then traded points with McGinnis getting the equaliser in stoppage time.

In extra time the younger and fitter Skerries side ran the legs off Brigids. Urged on by Bryan Cullen who burst upfield on numerous occasions, Harps outscored them by 0-5 to 0-2 to leave it 1 -17 to 1-14 at the break.

In the final 10 minutes Brigids could not add to their tally, and Skerries notched three more to ensure a six-point win.

This concludes a successful 2019 season for Skerries who have maintained their Division 1 status and remain in the Championship top tier.

Gazette SPORT OCTOBER 17-23, 2019

ALL OF YOUR FINGAL SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

BANSHEES RULE EUROPE AUSSIE RULES:

Castleknock duo Sinead Comerford and Lauren Manning helped the Irish Banshees retain the Womens AFL Europe title SEE P27

DCU RULES

BASKETBALL: DCU

Mercy remain the sole unbeaten side in the Women’s Super League after win on Saturday SEE P30

‘KNOCKED OUT OF SFC

GAELIC FOOTBALL: The conces-

sion of three goals, two in 30 first-half seconds proved too much of a handicap for Castleknock to overcome SEE P31

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Castleknock Camogie team deliver first title WE ARE DUBLIN

INTERMEDIATE 1 CAMOGIE CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL Castleknock 4-12 Erin’s Isle 1-2 sport@dublingazette.com

DESPITE conceding a goal after just 70 seconds ,Castleknock went on to produce a powerful team display, on their way to a convincing 19-point win over Erin’s Isle in the Camogie Intermediate Championship Final in Round Towers GAA Club in Clondalkin on Sunday afternoon last.

After an Aoife Whelan point fired Castleknock into an early lead there came the shock of an Erin’s Isle goal only 70 seconds into the game.

The upset was shortlived however, because Castleknock went straight back up the field and under pressure from Louise Mahony, an Erin’s Isle back deflected Molly O’Neill’s dropping shot into her own net to put Castleknock back in front.

Caitlin Coffey added a point and then on eight minutes another dropping ball, this time from Cara Feeney, again went all the way to the Isle’s net to give Castleknock a healthy 2-2 1-0 lead.

An imperious display by the Castleknock defence and midfield set up numerous point scoring opportunities for the forwards and between then and the interval

The Castleknock team who were crowned We are Dublin Intermediate Camogie Champions on Sunday following an impressive win over Erin’s Isle

“I had a health incident during the year and they

were a group of girls I couldn’t really let down, and they have been part of my recovery Ciara Burgess, Aoife Whelan (2), Christine Kenny and Molly O’Neill (2) took full advantage.

An Isle’s point closed the first-half scoring to leave Castleknock 2-8 1-1 ahead at the break.

It was clear by then that Castleknock had su p e r i o r h u r l e rs a l l around the field, and even though they eased off somewhat in the second-half, there was never any doubt about the eventual outcome.

A superb Louise Mahony team goal six minutes into the second-half was followed by an equally s t u n n i n g i n d iv i d u a l effort from Cara Feeney six minutes from the end.

In between Louise Mahony, revelling in her new full-forward role, Ciara Burgess and sub Bronagh Quinn added points and it was left to outstanding centre-back Molly O’Neill to complete the Castleknock scoring.

All the way from goal-

keeper Lauren Finney to left-corner forward Amy Mahony (including subs) this was a performance to be proud of and suggests exciting times ahead.

Castleknock now move up to Senior 2 and can also now look forward to representing Dublin in the Leinster Intermediate Championship beginning with a match next Saturday away to Kildare Champions Johnstownbridge at 2pm.

Castleknock manager Kevin Broderick was delighted with the manner of his sides display.

“We kept the momentum going,” he told the Dublin Gazette.

“I’d gone to see Isle’s against Pat’s in the last group game and I was happy enough that if we played to our strengths that we could get a result and the girls did very well.

“They are a fit young team with an average age

of 21 and they are a great group of girls to coach and manage.”

Broderick paid tribute to the squad and all involved, after he suffered a stroke during the Summer.

“I had a health incident during the year and they were a group of girls I couldn’t really let down, and they have been part of my recovery.

“They have been very welcoming to me and I have to thank them.”