Dublin Gazette: Fingal Edition

DublinGazette JANUARY 10-16, 2019

DUBLINMAGAZINE: As the New Year gets under way, we have plenty of great features to help get 2019 off to a flying start SEE PAGE 13

Fingal Edition FREE

THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL AREA

JANUARY 4-10, 2018 Picture: Alison O’Hanlon

SPORT

TRACTOR HERO LEADS HIS CONVOY

LADIES FOOTBALL: Noelle Healy content for Dublin to be the standard bearers following breathtaking 2018 season. SEE P31

travel

INDULGE IN A LITTLE STAYCATION LUXURY IN THE COUNTRY P18

MODEST fundraising hero Barney Greene (flanked by Fingal Mayor Anthony Lavin and Michael Hoey, Country Crest) has once again held his popular Tractor Run in aid of St Francis Hospice. A whopping 106 tractors took part this year. See Gallery on Page 6.

Sharp rise in Fingal domestic violence Instances soar in latest Garda stats SYLVIA POWNALL

Find us on Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

THERE has been a sharp rise in instances of domestic violence across Fingal, according to the latest figures released by gardai.

From January to October 2018, there was a 90% increase in breaches of domestic violence orders in the Blanchardstown district

– up to 146 from 77 for the same period in 2017.

Reports of crimes including domestic violence in the same district rose from 255 to 302, while the Balbriggan district recorded a shocking 219% increase.

There were 300 incidents of domestic violence reported in the north Fingal area in the

first nine months of 2018, up from 94 for the same period in the previous year.

Meanwhile, reports of robbery from the person rose a shocking 285% in the Malahide district, reflecting a spike in gang attacks over the Halloween period.

Gardai attribute some of the rise in domestic violence to “a more detailed recording of assault incidents with a domestic motive”.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Kids’ lessons on tolerance ONGAR students at Hansfield Educate Together Secondary School have been praised for their progressive, inclusive outlook after they organised a week-long campaign against homophobic and transphobic bullying.

SEE PAGE 3

Taxi attacks A SPATE of recent robberies and attacks has seen some taxi drivers refusing to serve west Dublin, with drivers on the look-out to help protect each other. PAGE 4

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 10 January 2019

PICK UP YOUR

DublinGazette FINGAL EDITION

EVERY THURSDAY! at the following locations:

• Applewood Community Cntr • Tesco- Rush • Topaz- Swords • SuperValu- Pavilions SC • Eurospar- Applewood Village • Tesco – Airside • SuperValu – Balbriggan • Fingal County Council offices (Swords & Blanchardtown) • Bracken Court Hotel • St Finians Community Centre • Energie Fitness – Swords • EBS – Swords • JCs Supermarket – Swords • Swords Central SC • Spar – Airside • Applewood Community Cntr • The Clarion Hotel – Airport • SuperValu- Malahide • Spar – Malahide • Centra – Malahide • Malahide RFC • Malahide United FC • Malahide Tennis Club • Esso – Malahide • Kinsealy Garden Centre • Hill Top Stores – Malahide • Malahide Library • M.U Gym (Malahide United) • Tesco -Clarehall • Londis – Malahide • Eurospar – Northern Cross • P.S.L.C – Portmarnock • Golf Links – Portmarnock • Texaco – Portmarnock • Eurospar – Dunboyne • Mulhuddart Community Cntr • Day Today- Ongar • Dunnes – Ongar • Ongar Community Centre • Eurospar – Hartstown • Hartstown Community Centre • Centra – Hartstown • XL - Stop’N’Shop – Sheepmoor • Blakestown Community College • Lidl – Blakestown • St Peregrines GAA • Mountview Community Cntr • Spar – Mulhuddart • SuperValu – Tyrrellstown • Park Plaza – Tyrrellstown • Tyrrellstown Community Cntr • I.T.B • Blanchardstown SC • Blanchardstown Library • An Draiocht • Harvey Norman – Blanch • Crowne Plaza – Blanch • Blanch Garda Station • Justin’s – Blanchardstown • SuperValu – Blanchardstown • Mace – Blanch Village • Dillon House – Coolmine • Topaz – Coolmine • Verona FC • Dunboyne Castle Hotel • Coolmine Community College • Woodview Stores – Roselawn • Westmanstown Sport Centre • Castleknock Hotel • Castleknock Golf Club • Castleknock Community Centre • Centra – Laurel Lodge • Castleknock Community College • Macari’s – Carpenterstown • Spar – Carpenterstown • Topaz – Castleknock • Myo’s – Castleknock • Londis – Castleknock • Tesco – Roselawn • Blanchardstown Hospital • Castleknock Community Centre • Spar – Hollystown • Roselawn Newsagents • Castleknock Doctor’s Surgery • Ground Coffeeshop – Westend Retail Park

For further info

www.dublingazette.com

01 60 10 240

TIME WITH TOM, 8, BEING AFFECTED BY BYELAWS

Mum pleads for dog fencing’s removal  SYLVIA POWNALL

spownall@dublingazette.com

A MOTHER has pleaded with the council to remove newly-erected fencing at a public park in Swords so she can walk her disabled son with his beloved dog.

Catherine Swords says she can no longer take her eight-year-old boy Tom out with his service dog Gerri because of strict new byelaws governing off-leash activity.

Tom was born with a heart condition and has a rare chromosomal disorder which causes intellectual and physical developmental issues. He has poor muscle tone, cannot walk, is non-verbal and is tubefed.

As his full-time carer, Catherine – who lives in Knocksedan – regularly pushes Tom in his buggy with Gerri walking alongside but she says she can no longer do so.

She told Dublin Gazette: “For me to hold the dog on a lead and push the buggy with a 22-kilo child is virtually impos-

Pooch pal Gerri waits to help take Tom (8) out for a walk – but strict new park byelaws in Swords are affecting the walks they used to take

sible. Tom loves to get out with Gerri.

“It’s good for my mental health too, but the new fencing at the Ward River Valley park means I have to pull my son through a pen full of dogs, which I feel threatened in, so they can have a bit of fun.

“The ground is uneven,

there are no benches, nowhere we can stop and sit.

“Where is the regard for people with disabilities?”

Catherine acknowledged that service dogs are exempt from the new byelaws, but said she likes to walk Gerri, a golden doodle, “as a normal dog”

without her coat sometimes.

She said: “When she’s out walking she’s not working. I’ve had her offleash for five years without an issue. Now we’re supposed to just put her in a pen and stand there?

“Sure, what’s the purpose of that for your mental health?”

Catherine pointed out that while dogs must be kept on a leash in Malahide Demesne, both they and their walkers are “in danger of being run over by the train or someone on a bike”.

She supports Fingal Dog Owners’ Group which held a protest in Malahide at the weekend to put pressure on the local authority to reverse the new byelaws.

A spokesperson for Fingal County Council said senior officials had held discussions with the group in December and a second meeting was planned for next week.

T h e s p o ke s p e rs o n added: “The new Parks and Open Spaces Byelaws have been created to reflect the need of all of Fingal’s park users. They aim to make parks and open spaces safer, cleaner and more enjoyable for everyone.”

Volunteer to help with emergencies

FINGAL County Council is seeking applications for potential emergency management volunteers.

The voluntary Emergency Management Unit (EMU) was established in 2013 to provide logistical support to Fingal County Council in relation to its responsibilities under a framework for major emergency management.

Volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, and all volunteers receive accredited training in how to support fulltime council staff in the event of an emergency.

The EMU volunteers provide immediate support in any emergency incident and are familiar with information management, council vehicles and equipment, the radio network and the principles of Major Emergency Management plans.

Additionally, the EMU provides logistical support to Fingal County Council staff in the running of its events.

Those interested can apply by emailing EMU@fingal. ie with their name, email address and a short personal statement outlining reasons for their interest.

FASTNews

Nine jobs created at airport eaterie

DUBLIN Airport’s newest food and beverage outlet Caffe Nero has opened in the Arrivals hall at Terminal 2, with the creation of nine jobs.

The new cafe is part of an overall revamp of T2 and the design of the new outlet incorporates several features which connect with different parts of Ireland.

The bar has been hand-made by Irish company, Wilson’s Yard, while the farmhouse tables in the outlet were all made by a local joinery company, DC Joinery in Lusk.

The external wall was hand-painted by local artist Colin O’Connell. The store also features a large graphic of Grattan Bridge, and pictures of Temple Bar and Crow Street in Dublin city centre.

“We’re really pleased that the new store has a distinctly Irish feel with its customised decor and design,” said airport managing director Vincent Harrison.

Pictured are Parool Rajput, senior project manager, terminals, daa; Emma McCusker, Caffe Nero; and Emmet Murphy, programme manager, daa.

‘Any probate wait affects homes crisis’ All welcome at a weight loss walk red tape. This reduces the number of family homes available and increases the vacancy rate nationally.”

DELAYS in processing Probate applications is reducing the number of homes on the market and causing financial stress for families, according to a Fingal TD. Fianna Fail housing spokesman Darragh O’Brien called for a review process first promised two years ago to get under way to clear the backlog.

Waiting times to receive probate varies from four to 20 weeks, according to information obtained by Deputy O’Brien.

He said: “In comparison to other countries, probate tends to take an inordinate amount of time to be processed in Ireland.

“Families are not only dealing with grief, but they are possibly coping with funeral costs and other expensive arrangements too.

“These waiting times have a broader impact on the housing market across the country as up to 26,000 homes per annum are caught up in legal

OPERATION Transformation leader Siobhan O’Brien will lead a walk in Porterstown Park in Dublin 15 this Saturday, January 12 at 11am.

Together with presenter Kathryn Thomas, the Clonsilla teacher will kickstart her weight loss journey and is inviting one and all to come out and join her.

As Siobhan herself said: “Everyone is more than welcome to join – dogs, babies, prams, scooters, runners, walkers, hobblers – all welcome! I will see you at the car park at 10.45am.”

Siobhan, who is assistant principal at Luttrelstown CC, joined four other leaders who shared their weight loss battle with the nation on RTE earlier this week.

The show is being broadcast from Bremore Castle in Balbriggan for the first time.

10 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

FAMILIES: SKINNY BATCH’S INITIATIVE TO HELP LOCALS SEES CEREAL DINING HABITS FORM

Cafe’s free breakfast for kids going down berry well in Rush A FINGAL cafe has been heaped with praise for an initiative which offers free breakfast to any child or teenager who needs it on their way to school.

Skinny Batch in Rush jokingly apologised for “breaking the internet” on its Facebook page on Monday after news of the gesture went viral at the weekend.

The offer of free fruit and porridge on takeaway orders for students on school days from 8 to 9am has gone down a treat locally with the cafe earning deserved kudos.

Announcing the move, it posted: “We think that every child and teenager deserves a warm healthy brekkie before school each day so here’s what we’re gonna do.

‘Fresh fruit’ “From Monday next week, we will have a pot of yummy porridge on from 8-9am (or while stocks last). McCormacks Fruit & Veg in Rush have kindly agreed to supply us with fresh fruit to take with you too (also while stocks last).

“Anyone up to age 18 who wants or needs a warm breakfast just needs to bring in a wee container and we’ll fill it up for them at Skinny Batch Rush on the way to school.

“No questions, no judgement, just love.

With thanks to Fran Butler at Pallas Foods and McCormacks Fruit & Veg, Rush.”

Dublin Gazette tried contacting the cafe on Tuesday to see how the new regime was being received by students – but not surprisingly staff at the popular eatery were too busy with customers to get to the phone!

FASTNews 150+ drivers caught up in Garda check

Happy to help launch two PLC D15’s courses

THE lack of PLC provision in Dublin 15 has finally come to an end, thanks to PLC D15 – a joint venture between Blakestown Community School and Riverdale Community College.

With support and guidance from DDLETB, Riversdale will launch two courses – one in Business Adminis-

tration, with Accounting and Marketing, and the other in Early Child Care and Education – while Blakestown will launch a certificate course in Retail eBusiness and Customer Service.

Riversdale and Blakestown jointly welcomed the move, saying: “We are

Ongar kids are the Pride of Dublin

SYLVIA POWNALL

STUDENTS in Ongar are the Pride of Dublin after they won praise for a campaign aimed at tackling homophobic and transphobic bullying.

The teens at Hansfield Educate Together Secondary School organised a week-long awareness week as part of an initiative run by the national LGBT youth organisation.

A PRISM committee made up of students from the school decided to get on board hoisting the rainbow flag, decorating the corridors with bunting, and organising a series of talks.

Teacher Laura Moher told Dublin Gazette: “The premise of the group is to recognise that many students in Hansfield are LGBT+ and many students want to support and be a part of the committee as allies.

“The wider message of the group is to encourage all students in Hansfield to celebrate diversity and to encourage inclusion.”

Rainbow bracelets bearing the words ‘Let me be me’ were donated by Fingal Comhairle na nOg and rainbow stickers were given to students for their journals.

Teachers also gave anti-

bullying lessons in sport and physical education, and ethics.

Green Party Cllr Roderic O’Gorman and Dublin Trans Pride organiser Thomas White were invited to address students and both commended their efforts.

Thomas told Dublin Gazette: “The students themselves drove this event because they wanted to raise awareness among the school community.

“We talked about what the colours of the Pride flag mean and discussed issues around bullying, mental health and suicide. They

are very confident, articulate young people and it’s great to see them working towards creating change.

“Because it’s an Educate Together school, they are more liberal than some in what they can do.

“Most secondary schools are still under Catholic influence with a priest or nun on the board so there is a block on discussing LGBT+ issues.

“Thankfully, attitudes are changing and there has been a shift in attitude.

This generation are not growing up with the same homophobia, sexism and racism that was acceptable in the 1980s.”

excited about this new venture and see this as a valuable asset to education in D15.”

Acting Mayor of Fingal Cllr Kieran Dennison was on hand for the recent launch of PLC D15, where he joined in the praise for the educational initiative for Dublin 15.

MORE than 150 drivers were tested for drink or drug driving at a major garda checkpoint in west Dublin on New Year’s Day. In all, 161 motorists were stopped on the Blanchardstown Road south, with 153 tested for alcohol and eight tested for drugs.

Gardai later thanked people for their co-operation and revealed on Twitter that no driver came in over the limit on either, and no other offences were recorded.

A garda spokesperson said: “At [the] Garda checkpoint on Blanchardstown Road South, 153 drivers were tested for alcohol and eight drivers were tested for drugs.

“No offences were committed. Thanks to all motorists who complied. Never, ever drink or drug drive.

A new chapter for library use

Hansfield Educate Together Secondary School students with a symbolic rainbow flag that they flew at the school

FINES for overdue books have been removed at Fingal libraries, offering readers an amnesty to return items and an incentive to rejoin their local lender.

Fingal County Council announced last week that from January 1, members do not have to pay penalties for overdue books and no existing fines will be collected.

The move is part of a national strategy to increase use of the library as a community hub.

Fingal’s County Librarian Betty Boardman said: “Libraries are an invaluable resource and we want to remove any barriers that might prevent people making full use of them.”

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 10 January 2019

POLICING

Sharp rise in variety of crimes in Fingal reported CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Memory lane look at the first FCC meeting THE inaugural meeting of Fingal County Council took place 25 years ago this week in 1994 in Newbridge House, Donabate after Dublin County Council was abolished.

This meeting saw Councillor Sean Ryan elected as the first Cathaoirleach of Fingal.

He was presented with a chain of office

designed by renowned goldsmith Patrick Flood. The first County Manager of Fingal was Davy Byrne.

Since that first meeting, the population has almost doubled from 150,000 to almost 300,000 people.

The 24 councillors who took their seats

for Fingal County Council in 1994 were as follows ...

Balbriggan – Ken Farrell, Trevor Sargent, Cathal Boland, Sean Gilbride, Jack Larkin.

Swords – Sean Ryan, Tom Kelleher, Cyril Gallagher, Anne Devitt.

Mulhuddart – Joe Higgins, Marian

McGennis, Michael O’Donovan.

Malahide – V Wright, Nora Owen, Michael Kennedy, Bernie Malone.

Howth – Michael J Cosgrave, Joan Maher, Liam Creavan, David Healy.

Castleknock – Sean Lyons, Tom Morrissey, Sheila Terry, Ned Ryan.

Taxi attacks sees drivers refusing to serve west Dublin SYLVIA POWNALL

SOME taxi drivers are refusing to operate in west Dublin after a spate of robberies including one in which a cabbie was held at knifepoint by three teenage thugs.

Two incidents in Tyrrelstown and Clonee on December 30 in which drivers were targeted have led some operators to fear for their safety.

One taxi driver told how he picked up two young men from Parnell Street in the city centre and drove to Tyrrelstown where they robbed his dash cam and cash.

In a second more sin-

ister incident on the same night, a passenger held a knife to a taxi man’s throat and stole his night’s takings.

The incident occurred at 12.50am on New Year’s Eve. T h e Ty r re l s tow n thieves took the dash cam in the belief that they would not be traceable – but the footage recorded was uploaded to cloud storage and later posted on social media.

A garda spokesperson confirmed they were investigating the robberies but no arrests had been made as yet.

Drivers now believe thugs out to rob them or

flee without paying their fare are now using taxi apps to screen potential victims based on their age and fitness level.

The driver targeted in Tyrrelstown on December 30 said the thugs who booked him had used a popular app which shows a photo of the driver.

He revealed: “I’ve been told since that they had requested and declined several taxis before they eventually chose me, probably on that basis that I’m a bit older and less likely to go after them.”

He added: “It would make me think twice about working Tyrrel-

stown again, and there are other taxi drivers who have said the same thing.

It leaves you shaken.”

There was a similar spate of armed robberies and assaults on taxi drivers operating in Tyrrelstown, Ongar, Clonee and Blanchardstown around the same time last year.

On New Year’s Eve 2017, a driver was threatened with an imitation firearm and robbed in the Hazelbury Park area of Clonee.

Cabbies set up a mess a g i n g g ro u p w h i c h allows them to share their location with others any time they feel under threat – and alerts gardai.

The report also notes that a publicity campaign highlighting the issue of domestic violence has led to an increase in the numbers reporting.

Figures released to members of the Fingal Joint Policing Committee also show a sharp rise in theft in the Blanchardstown district.

Theft from shops was up 29% from 455 to 586.

Gardai note that there is “continued liaison with the retail sector in offering crime prevention advice”.

In the same district, robbery from establishments rose by 44%, from 18 incidents to 26.

Gardai reported: “This increase is of concern and extra armed patrols are being carried out to tackle this issue.”

Theft from the person – with smartphones, cash, wallets and handbags listed as the main target items – rose 25% in the Blanchardstown district compared to an almost three-fold increase in Malahide.

Increase Robberies from the person also rose by 90% in the Swords district, with gardai reporting that there was a “significant increase associated with incidents around the Halloween period”.

In Malahide, the theft of vehicles rose sharply, by 240%. The number of detectives stationed at Malahide Garda Station was doubled in November from three to six, and another sergeant was also deployed.

Public order incidents rose by 37% in Balbriggan and north Fingal, but decreased by 22% in the Swords district.

Instances of public order were up 28% in Blanchardstown.

10 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 10 January 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Mike and Finn Noonan with David Murtagh

It’s all go at the Barney Greene Tractor Run

Cllr Darragh Butler, Cllr Cathal Boland, Dara McGovern, Fingal Mayor Cllr Anthony Lavin, Eliot Fisher, Adam Butler, Barney Greene. Michael Hoey Country Crest, Gene Murphy St Francis Hospice, Aoife McGovern and Lucy Fisher. Picture:Alison O’Hanlon

Fundraising hero gets back on his tractor for charity

T

Ciaran, Fionn, Olwen and Shay O’Callaghan

HE 12th Annual Barney Greene Tractor run took place with 106 tractors taking off from Country Crest in Lusk and finishing up two hours later at The Man O War pub. The pub was the headquarters for an afternoon of raffles, auctions and fun. A total of €9,000 in much-needed funds was raised in aid of St Francis Hospice. The annual tractor run brings great fun to those who take part or those who prefer to just watch the tractors go by.

Helen Farrell, Maria Greene, Aidan Daly and Barney Greene

Levi Smith, Grace Rogan, Eoin, and Nyah Smith, Cian and James Rogan

Richard Farnan and Ann McLoughlin

Barney Greene

10 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 10 January 2019

CASTLEKNOCK: CAMPAIGNERS STEP UP PUSH BACK AGAINST PHONE TOWER

EDUCATION

Have your say on two schools’ patronage

An Bord Pleanala granted permission for the mast at the entrance to Laurel Lodge Shopping Centre - just 50 metres from Scoil Thomais NS and close to community hubs

Locals vow to fight 15m mast SYLVIA POWNALL

CASTLEKNOCK residents opposed to plans for a 15-metre phone mast close to a school, creche

and church are stepping up their protest campaign.

A public meeting was held on Tuesday in Kavanagh’s pub at Laurel Lodge shopping centre to discuss

the controversial decision to permit the telecommunications tower.

An Bord Pleanala granted permission for the mast at the entrance to the

shopping centre, which is just 50 metres from Scoil Thomais NS and close to the community centre, creche and church.

The board ruled in favour of an appeal by Shared Access despite the fact that it had rejected an application for a mast of a lower height (12m) at the same location just months earlier.

No To Mast action group spokesperson Derek Lambert told Dublin Gazette: “This mast could represent a potential health risk to all the children in the school and Montessori/ creche and people living in the surrounding area.

“The structure would have an unduly negative impact on the visual and residential amenities of the Laurel Lodge area, and consequently for people

who live there.”

Local Labour representative John Walsh, who has also been a vocal objector, called on developer Shared Access Ltd to drop its plans for a mast in the shops car park which he said is a “totally appropriate location”.

He told Dublin Gazette: “The developer, Shared Access Ltd, should withdraw this flawed proposal at this stage and work with the council to find an alternative site.

“The decision to grant permission in this location beggars belief. There is no agreement between the local businesses and the developer for this mast, and it has caused a great deal of concern and anxiety among local residents.”

Fingal County Council,

which refused permission for both mast applications, is powerless to prevent the development because an objective prohibiting the erection of mobile phone masts within 200 metres of a school was not included in the current County Development Plan, on foot of Government guidance.

Meanwhile, the director of Laurel Lodge Shopping Centre Management Ltd, said the shops collectively have had no discussions with Shared Access and there is no agreement in place.

In a letter to the action group, Dominic Kenna added: “We can definitely say that we will not be going ahead with the building of that mast now or at any stage in the

PA R E N T S a re b e i n g invited to have an input into the patronage selection process for two new national schools due to open their doors in Swords in September.

The first, described as Swords North, will be on the Rathbeale Road while the second (Swords South) is being proposed at a temporary location at the National Show Centre, with a permanent site to be developed on the Forest Road.

Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) is supporting the campaign for Community National Schools/ DDLETB, who currently provide post-primary education through Swords Community College, St Finian’s CC and Fingal CC. Cllr Butler said area representatives have been working towards a permanent location for the Swords South school, ideally on the Forest Road, “in order to help alleviate the massive demand on Holy Family NS which will be over-subscribed once again this year”.

You can have your say on patronage at https:// patronage.education. gov.ie/ on or before January 15.

Happy to help demystify autism ASIAM.IE founder Adam of their experience with Harris visited Riversdale autism.

Community College last Carol is mother to two month to heighten awarechildren on the ASD specness and understanding of trum and, along with her autism. husband, she set up the D15 He gave a talk as part of Autism Parents Support an initiative involving four Group which meets on the schools – Ladyswell NS, St first Wednesday of every Patrick’s NS and SNS, Cormonth at 8pm in HuntHSCL co-ordinators Aidan Fleming, Suzanne Burns and stown Community Centre. duff and Riversdale CC. Adam spoke about his Cathal McDaniel with Adam Harris, AsIAm, and Emily Tracy is the owner and experience of growing up Boyle, deputy principal, Riversdale founder of Spectrum Kids with autism and the difFitness (Mondays and ferent opportunities and challenges students with autism and to intro- Wednesdays from 6-8pm in Sacred that it brought to his life. He also gave duce steps to help students overcome Heart of Jesus NS in Huntstown), practical tips on supporting young these challenges. Adam believes which provides fitness classes’ spepeople with autism throughout their that this will result in more schools cific to children with ASD. school life and beyond. becoming autism-friendly.

The school is delighted to have He encouraged all schools to start The talk included two former hosted this informative talk and taking steps to become more aware pupils of Riversdale CC – Carol Mur- wish to thank all who came along to of the day-to-day challenges facing phy and Tracey McEvoy, who spoke the event.

10 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

CRIME: BURGLARIES SEE A RISE IN EXTERNAL BANKING

Homeowners banking on safe deposit storage SYLVIA POWNALL

A SHARP increase in burglaries across Fingal has seen the demand for safe deposit boxes rise, according to industry experts.

More and more householders in the north county are opting to move their valuables out of the family home and bank them elsewhere for safe keeping.

The growing trend comes on foot of a spate of burglaries right across Fingal over the past month – from Malahide and Swords to Blanchardstown and Castleknock.

One fed-up resident posted on Twitter just days

ago: “Multiple break-ins and attempted break-ins again last night in Malahide with three gangs out at different times from 3am. Happening every 3/4 days now with cars and possessions robbed.”

Warnings were issued to residents in west Dublin urging vigilance after reports of thieves following shoppers laden with bags of goods bought in the sales home.

Merrion Vaults, the first independent safe deposit box vault in Ireland, has reported a significant increase in new clients from Fingal in the past number of weeks.

Founder Seamus Fahy said more and more people were opting to store valuables off-site in preference to relying on a home safe for cash or valuables.

He said: “Once the valuables are in the home, the risk remains. Burglars will get them. The way to eliminate risk is to keep valuables off site in a safe deposit box.

“Since Christmas we have seen a steady flow of homeowners from the north Dublin area putting their valuables in our vaults.

“This provides them with peace of mind and can also contribute to reducing

their annual home insurance bill.”

Seamus also advised all homeowners to check the terms of the cover for valuable jewellery items as some polices have strict conditions linked to the cover.

He warned: “If you put your expensive watch or engagement ring on the bedside locker when you go to sleep and it is stolen, you may not be covered, as some policies require that you either wear the item or store in a safe.”

Merrion Vaults provides clients with a secure safe deposit box for as little as €4 a week.

ITB joy for 22 awards THERE were big smiles all round at ITB recently as annual Sports Scholarships were presented to 22 students who have demonstrated outstanding sporting ability.

Ronan Keaskin, ITB Sports Development Officer, congratulated one such student – Emmanuel Okesola Esuku, from Mulhuddart, Dublin 15, who is studying Mechatronic Engineering – on obtaining a scholarship for his superb performance in Basketball.

Wrights to redeploy staff after closure THE Wright Hospitality Group has assured it will redeploy staff at its Wright Venue nightclub to other pubs and restaurants in its portfolio, where possible.

The company’s chief executive, Michael Wright, announced last week that the well-known club at Airside in Swords would close its doors before the end of the month.

The massive venue, which played host to a number of high-profile celebrities over the past decade, including Rihanna, will be taken over by event firm Bodytonic.

Bodytonic operates the trendy Bernard Shaw pub on Camden

Street in the city centre as well as a number of festivals and is set to open a new venture at Airside called Jam Park.

The Michael JF Wright Hospitality Group also operates Wrights Cafe Bar in Swords and the Marqette Food Hall in Dublin Airport.

Michael Wright said the business was expanding its food products including a €5 million investment in a food hall at St Andrew’s church on Dublin’s Suffolk St. He said: “The Wright Venue has been an incredible journey. Since taking a chance and building a venue in north Dublin in the worst of

the recession, we’ve spent a decade welcoming customers in their thousands from all over the country.

“We thrived thanks to the talented and passionate team that helped create the unique Wright Venue atmosphere and reputation and by offering quality entertainment and major stars.”

The most recently filed accounts for the Wright Group show the company had accumulated losses of €2.5 million to the end of March 2017.

Those figures include a contribution from a second entity within Wrights Cafe Bar Airside, a pub called Hogs and Heifers.

FASTNews Where to recycle Christmas trees CHRISTMAS trees can be dropped off at the following collection points up until next Tuesday, January 15: Estuary Road Recycling Centre in Swords; The Square, Donabate; The Brook, Portrane; Santry Demesne car park; Charlestown park open space (opposite shopping centre).

Fingal County Council will also accept trees at Bath Road car park in Balbriggan, Red Island car park in Skerries, Hayestown open space in Rush and Orlynn Park entrance in Lusk.

Trees can be left at the public car park at the back road of Malahide Demesne, the public car park at Strand Road in Portmarnock, Kinsealy Court, The Banks car park in Malahide, Seagrange Park in Baldoyle, Sutton Park or Harbour car park in Howth.

In Dublin 15, trees can be dropped at Millennium car park (Snugborough Road extension), in Coolmine during park opening hours only.

The local authority stresses that Christmas trees will be accepted at the above locations – other green waste (Christmas tree stands etc) will not be accepted.

For further information, see http://www.fingal.ie/ environment/waste-and-recycling/

Shock at a machete raid in D15 GARDAI are investigating after a shocking machete raid on a grocery store near Blanchardstown on Wednesday, January 2.

Terrified shoppers ran for cover when two masked men armed with a machete and a crowbar burst into the Lidl store in Blakestown at around 4.30pm.

The raiders came in via the exit door and waved the weapons, issuing threats to staff and customers and demanding money, according to one eyewitness.

The pair took money from the shop’s tills and left the premises, fleeing on foot. No one suffered any injuries during the incident.

A garda spokesperson said: “Gardai are investigating a robbery of a shop at Blakestown Road which occurred shortly before 5pm on January 2.

“Two armed males stole a sum of cash. There were no injuries. No arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing.”

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 10 January 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Maria, Sean, Conor and Liam Gallagher

Emily Hasle and Ella Barry

Family fun at Millbank Theatre as Snow White brings holiday joy

T Ciara and Graham Kirk with Emily, Alannah and Jamie. Picture: Alison O’Hanlon

HE Millbank Theatre Rush has outdone themselves with this year’s Panto, Snow White, which was directed by Brian Hosford. The holiday production of Snow White captured the imagination of young and old, alike. The panto filled the audience with fun and festive cheer and made sure everyone left the theatre with big smiles.

Martin Brennan and Dell Thorne

10 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 10 January 2019

LOVE YOUR DUBLIN: DELVE INTO THE BEST THAT UNUSUAL DUBLIN HAS TO OFFER

ST MICHAN’S CHURCH CONTAINS FIVE LONG BURIAL VAULTS CONTAINING THE MUMMIFIED REMAINS OF MANY OF DUBLIN’S MOST INFLUENTIAL FAMILIES FROM 1600 TO 1800.

DUBLIN MADE EASY F

Some of the more off beat things to do the next time you have a few hours to kill

OLLOWING the festivities of the past few weeks you probably want to do something that doesn’t involve excessive eating or drinking!

If you’re looking for things to do in the city then why not delve into unusual Dublin.

As you would expect from somewhere over a thousand years old, the capital has plenty of quirky and wonderful places to excite your imagination.

Here, we’ve collected some of the more offbeat things to do the next time you have a few hours to kill.

It’s not just visitors to our amazing city who’ll want to explore some of these unusual places, even we Dubliners forget what’s on our doorstep every now and again.

ST MICHAN’S CHURCH

MARSH’S LIBRARY

JEWISH MUSEUM

ST Michan’s Church, which was originally founded in 1095 on the site of a Norse chapel, is noted for what lies beneath it.

While the interior boasts fine woodwork, and an organ from 1724 on which Handel is said to have composed his Messiah, the vaults uniquely contain mummified remains of many of Dublin’s most influential families from 1600 to 1800.

Among them are the 400-year-old body of a nun, a six-and-a-half foot man believed to have been a crusader, and a body with its feet and right hand severed.

Open to tours on Saturdays, and seasonally on some weekdays, St Michan’s Church is well worth a visit.

FOUNDED in 1707, Marsh’s Library holds some 25,000 books and 300 manuscripts, and is the oldest public library in Ireland.

Narcissus Marsh, Archbishop of Dublin, donated many of the books in the library from his personal collection, and is buried nearby on the Cathedral grounds.

The library has seen much of Dublin’s history, some of the bookcases are riddled with bullet holes from the Easter Rising, when the hotel next door was occupied.

Marsh’s Library is located on St Patrick’s Close, beside St Patrick’s Cathedral, and open to the public everyday apart from Tuesday and Sundays.

THE Irish Jewish Museum is located in the once highly Jewish populated area of Portobello on the site of the former Walworth Road Synagogue, which could accommodate around 150 people, consisting of two adjoining terraced houses.

Due to the movement of the Jewish people from the area to the suburbs of Dublin and with the overall decline in their numbers, the Synagogue fell into disuse and ceased to function in the early 70s.

The museum contains a collection that includes photographs, paintings, certificates, books and artefacts covering all aspects of Jewish life.

10 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

DUBLIN

REMEMBERING SOME CINEMA LEGENDS AND ACTRESS EVA’S HAPPY TO HELP INDULGE YOURSELF WITH A LAP OF NAMES WE LOST SCOLIOSIS SUFFERERS ... P16 LUXURY STAYCATION HOLIDAY ... P18 IN 2018 ... P20

MAGAZINE

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

HAPPY TO HELP PROMOTE A FUN DUBLIN MENTAL HEALTH FESTIVAL THERE were plenty of smiles at the launch of the First Fortnight European mental health art and culture festival 2019 recently.

Pictured are (foreground) Tony Mohan and Seve Feathers, Clowns Without Borders; David Keegan, co-founder and chief executive of First Fortnight; State Lights’ Shobsy; artist Emma Sheridan; The Academic’s frontman Craig Gallagher and Cathy Coughlan For further information on the festival and its aims, see overleaf, Page 15. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 10 January 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

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

Kathryn Kennedy and Maureen McKittrick

Suzanne Murray and Gill Cooper

C O N TA C T S

Edwina Casey and Richard Bolger

Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@dublingazette.com Group Editor: Patrick Finnegan pfinnegan@dublingazette.com Deputy Group Editor: Shane Dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile jmaile@dublingazette.com Picture Editor: Aisling Conway aconway@dublingazette.com

Pat Shortt and daughter Faye Shortt. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Travel Editor: Sylvia Pownall spownall@dublingazette.com Advertising Sales:

01 - 6010240 sales@dublingazette.com

FIND US ON

Ernie and Cian Gallagher

Kathy and Cian Gallagher

Preview screening of The Belly of the Whale P AT Shortt joined fellow cast members on the red carpet at a special screening of The Belly of the Whale at the Omniplex Rathmines recently.

The Belly of the Whale tells the story of two down on their

luck souls who attempt to rob an amusement arcade to solve their problems. The other cast members in attendance on the night included Love/Hate actor Peter Coonan and Lewis MacDougall.

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 Blanchardstown Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Fiona Bonnie

David Heffernan and Orla McHugh

Simone McConnell and Clare Beegan

10 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

FEATURES

Challenging mental health prejudice through the arts PADRAIG CONLON

THE first festival of the year is already underway after First Fortnight began on New Year’s Day. The annual arts and mental health festival, first founded in 2009, returns with a very impressive series of events in Dublin and nationwide over the coming weeks.

First Fortnight is an artsbased mental health charity aiming to challenge

mental health stigma and discrimination.

The festival sees over 150 events in January with family and child friendly events, music, sports, comedy, theatre, film, panel discussions, workshops and much more.

Co-founder and chief executive of First Fortnight, David Keegan, said his motivation for starting the festival was to raise awareness of mental health in Ireland.

He said: “In 2009, it

seemed mental health didn’t feature too highly on anyone’s list of priorities despite the suicide epidemic Ireland was experiencing at the time, particularly among my demographic.

“My best mate, and First Fortnight co-founder JP and I had personal experience of the devastating impact of mental health stigma.

“It was at that age I began to self-harm and JP lost a brother to suicide.

“When we sat down, our intention was to design a model to start a national mental health conversation.

“We’d a shared interest in art and culture. It reflects us societally.

“It was my background.

JP worked in the mental health services at the time.

“Artists have always championed issues of great social importance.

“Great art can affect great change.

“Ultimately the festi-

First Fortnight helps create a space where people can talk about mental health issues

val is a medium through which we start meaningful conversations, challenge stigma and raise mental health awareness at a challenging time of year for a lot of people.”

Highlights this month include shows by Irish actor Emmet Kirwan, British musician Professor

Green, Irish screenwriter and playwright Stefanie Preissner, musicians The Academic and Saint Sister and former athlete David Gillick which aim to challenge mental health stigma in Dublin and throughout Ireland.

Events will be held across Dublin in venues

including The Sugar Club, A4 Sounds on St Joseph’s Parade, Smock Alley, The Ark on Eustace Street and The Science Gallery, Trinity College Dublin.

The festival partners include St Patrick’s Mental Health Services, Mental Health Ireland, See Change and SpunOut.

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 10 January 2019

FEATURES

Rush native Eva Butterly (main) suffered through years of pain and discomfort as a teen, with scoliosis giving her a lot to overcome. However, she worked long and hard – and worked out a lot to strengthen her back muscles – to overcome the condition, going on to appear in Game of Thrones (inset right, Season 6). Today, as ‘The Scoliosis Warrior’, Eva wants to help inspire other scoliosis sufferers to feel better.

HEALTH | ACTRESS WORKED HARD TO HELP PUT YEARS OF BACK PAIN BEHIND HER

Eva’s inspirational Scoliosis Warrior message set to help fellow sufferers REBECCA RYAN

DUBLIN actress Eva Butterly, who was diagnosed with scoliosis as a teen, is now helping others with the condition through fitness.

The 27-year-old Rush native – who also had a part in TV hit Game of Thrones, as an actress in a travelling troupe who portrayed canny Margaery Tyrell – was diagnosed with an extreme curvature of the spine at the age of 12, but in recent years she has found that lifting weights has dramatically improved her condition.

Eva told Dublin Gazette she discovered she had the condition after her primary school teacher noticed that her shoulder was “slumped to one side”.

“

I want people to know that they don’t have to be a slave to their scoliosis and there are lots of things they can do to help themselves manage the condition “She informed my mam, who then brought me to see a chiropractor, where I was diagnosed with scoliosis.

“I received chiropractic treatment for six months, but my back got progressively worse to the point where a large hump started to form.

“I was sent to see an o r t h o p e d i c su rge o n , who diagnosed me with severe scoliosis and required immediate surgery because my curva-

ture was so aggressive.”

Eva then had two spinal fusion operations.

The first was to insert metal rods into either side of her spine to prevent the curvature getting worse, but after complications the second operation was to remove the rods as they became infected.

“I wore a body cast for a year after that to secure my spine in place, and thankfully there have been no further compli-

cations since.”

Growing up with scoliosis was hard for Eva. She remembers: “My body felt very alien to me and I had trouble finding clothes that fit.

“The backs of chairs in schools always caused a lot of discomfort, and I felt very different to other girls my age.”

Eva started going to the gym at 18 and over the years she has found that weightlifting has helped her manage the scoliosis. She is hoping to inspire others with the condition.

“Strengthening the muscles that surround my spine has helped tremendously with pain and also the overall aesthetic appearance of my back.

“Through weight lifting, I developed a newfound confidence in

myself, which was very empowering to a previously self-consc ious teenage girl.

“I continued to train 4-5 days a week and over the course of a few months my body started to change. I became a lot more symmetrical, and my pain pretty much disappeared.

“There are many studies that show lifting weights not only relieves back pain and improves the functionality of the spine, but it also increases your bone density.

“Strong muscles have a much easier time holding the spine in place; strong bones help prevent degeneration of the spine as we get older.”

She added: “My miss i o n i s to e m p owe r people to take control of their health through

resistance training. I also advocate for the importance of well-balanced nutrition and mental health.

“I want people to know that they don’t have to be a slave to their scoliosis and there are lots of things they can do to help themselves manage the condition.”

Eva’s message to people with scoliosis is to get support: “Go online and get yourself some support. Don’t be afraid to reach out; be curious about your condition, ask questions about the best treatment options available.

“Scoliosis is not only physically difficult, but it is also a struggle mentally, and it is easy to feel very alone on the journey. Reaching out to other people can help

lessen the load. “ T h e re a re p e o p l e out there who relate to your struggles and can empathise with you. You might even make a new friend in the process!

“I am always open and willing to chat if anyone ever needs a listening ear.”

2019 is set to be a big year for the inspirational woman. She will be working with people all over the world with the launch of her online coaching service, Scoliosis Warrior, and no doubt she will continue to go from strength to strength in whatever she sets her hand to.

To follow Eva Butterly, see The Scoliosis Warrior @evabutterly on Instagram, or on Facebook see www.facebook.com/ evabutterlyfitness/

10 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

FOOD & DRINK

Nonna knows best for celeb chef Gennaro REBECCA RYAN

CELEBRITY chef Gennaro Contaldo was in Dublin just before Christmas for an exclusive festive masterclass.

The warm, friendly and insanely talented Italian chef and restauranteur is most known for his association with his protégé, Jamie Oliver, teaching him everything he knows about Italian cooking.

He is also well known for his partnership with fellow Italian chef, the late Antonio Carluccio and their BBC Two television series Two Greedy Italians.

Dublin Gazette caught up with the much-loved chef in Jamie’s Italian in Dundrum for the exclusive masterclass. He was full of praise for the popular Dublin restaurant.

“It’s beautiful. The way Gerry looks after this place. All the chefs are so passionate.

They’re all on it. Everything is tasty. I went back to show them how to make a fish dish, my God they were better than me!

“This is what you want, you want them to do better, because if they do exactly what I do, it is a photocopy. They have to do better. You feel happy.”

Gennaro was brought up in Minori, a small fishing village on the Amalfi Coast in Italy.

“

Their latest project was touring around Italy for two years for the new Jamie Cooks Italy Book.

The famous duo were passionate to learn authentic Italian recipes from nonnas [grandmothers] so that the recipes would never be lost.

Gennaro said the nonnas are the “real cooks” and meeting them changed the way he cooks today. “[Jamie and I] planned this trip a few years ago. We’d been very busy with the restaurant and filming, we had to find the time to go. We travelled all over Italy from right in the north to the mountains to the last island in Italy.

“With the nonna, filming is quite slow.

You have to go with the pace of a nonna. Some of the nonna needed a little rest. Some of the nonna can be very cheeky!

“When we found the nonna, we said hi, we stayed with them, we talk with them. You fell in love as soon as you see them.

“They treat you like a little child because under their eyes we are little children. After a few days with them they become your real nonna.

“The most difficult thing was when we had to say goodbye. Because of their age, they are quite old, in the back of your mind you think are you going to see them [again], perhaps it would be the last time.”

Gennaro added that the nonnas taught Jamie and himself so much about cooking.

“We had to learn how to ‘un-chef’. I think we do everything wrong! You have to be with a nonna to see how to cook!

“We learned so much. At my age that’s a privilege. It’s changed the way I cook.”

We couldn’t leave without asking Mr Italy himself what his favourite Italian dish is, but it was a very hard choice for him as he likes them all!

“Ah! It’s very difficult because I like everything! What I like for myself to have on New Year’s Eve is simplicity. Stock fish, salt bacalao, just boil it, twist of olive oil, a little bit of garlic, parsley and a squeeze of lemon. But I like everything else as well!”

Gennaro’s latest book ‘Gennaro’s Fast Cook Italian’ is full of enticing, authentic and quick to prepare recipes which is now available.

We learned so much. At my age that’s a privilege. It’s changed the way I cook

The value of mealtimes He learned from an early childhood the importance of fresh, seasonal ingredients, the potential of taste and texture and, in true Italian style, the family man knows and values the sheer pleasure of mealtimes.

Jamie and Gennaro go way back. When Jamie was a young man, his dream was to make the “best pasta in the world”. His friend told him about Gennaro and gave him the address of his restaurant in Covent Garden.

Jamie knocked on Gennaro’s restaurant door looking for a job. Gennaro took him under his wing and quickly realised his potential. He also wanted to have someone he could pass on his knowledge to and Jamie was the perfect candidate.

Both Jamie and Gennaro have been heavily involved with Jamie’s Italian.

Gennaro Contaldo (left) cooking up a storm in Dundrum

MORSELS OF NEWS... MORSELS OF NEWS...

VAT-driven increase leaves coffee lovers with bitter complaints

McDonald’s serves up its first vegetarian Happy Meal offerings

MCDONALD’S Ireland has introduced the first ever vegetarian Happy Meal, along with a new Spicy Veggie Wrap (above) on the main menu.

The two new additions are in response to the growing customer demand for more meat-free meal choices.

The two new vegetarian wraps catering to adults and children include: NEW Happy Meal Veggie Wrap (209kcal) made with a red pesto goujon with tomato ketchup and shredded lettuce, wrapped in a soft, toasted tortilla.

The other is a new Spicy Veggie Wrap (364kcal) made with two red pesto goujons, a dressing of spicy relish with tomato, lettuce and red onion, all wrapped in a soft, toasted tortilla. The ingredients are all also dairy-free.

Duncan Cruttenden, menu director at McDonald’s Ireland and UK, said: “We are really thrilled to be able to give our customers this new choice.”

COMPLAINTS have been heard from coffee lovers in Dublin as the New Year saw the price of a coffee going up.

Last October, a hike in VAT rates was announced by the Government in Budget 2019. Rates on the hospitality sector were increased from 9% to 13.5%, which affected cafes, restaurants, hotels and bars.

The price jump has been passed onto many customers from businesses.

Coffee lovers have been reacting online, with some complaining about the hike and asking was the price reduced when the VAT was cut to 9%?

One person asked: “Had you reduced the price when VAT was cut to 9%?” Another said: “Not sure the decrease to 9% was reflected everywhere when the rate was reduced, but companies and businesses are quick to increase.”

Others were understanding of the hike, with one person writing: “Some people just don’t seem to understand that things [have] changed since 2009.

“You can’t expect a business that’s been running with 9% VAT change to 13.5% and absorb it.”

Of the increase in prices, another person wrote: “And rightly justified! Anyone who doesn’t understand this must not be selfemployed or own a business!”

Yum, yum – world’s first lab-grown steak cooked up by start-up

A LANDMARK accomplishment has been achieved in the fake meat industry as the world’s first labgrown steak has been revealed.

Israeli start-up Aleph Farms, with a slogan of ‘Leading the slaughterfree meat revolution for a healthier world’, announced it had grown a steak in a lab using cells extracted from a living cow.

The firm’s boss, Didier Toubia, said: “The initial products are still relatively thin, but the technology we developed marks a true breakthrough and a great leap forward in producing a cell-grown steak.”

Aleph Farms had to find a nutrient combination that would encourage the extracted animal cells to grow into a tissue structure similar to that found in a cow.

Toubia said: “Making a patty or a sausage from cells cultured outside the animal is challenging enough – imagine how difficult it is to create a whole-muscle steak.”

Scientists say it will be available to buy within two years.

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 10 January 2019

TRAVEL COMMERCIAL CONTENT

Make 2019 the year to visit the Seychelles – just one trending destination to consider

GoHop to it to plan your great escape

IRISH holiday firm GoHop.ie has just launched their 2019 summer holiday sale, entitled Plan your next Escape.

The early January booking season is normally littered with holidaymakers seeking out cheap deals, but early trends for 2019 indicate a notable increase in demand for upmarket holidays right across the globe.

Trending far-away destinations that currently top the list of the early 2019 popularity ratings include Dubai, South Africa, The Seychelles, Vietnam, Florida, Cuba, Peru and The Galapagos.

Whilst value for money is still an important consideration, the recent improvement in the economy, coupled with tempting new flying options, has made many bucket listtype destinations a lot more affordable.

GoHop.ie has a wide range of tempting holiday options to satisfy early bookers so, regardless of your budget, there’s no excuse not to Plan your next Escape and book that well-earned trip of a lifetime in 2019.

GoHop.ie is now considered one of the most popular holiday websites in Ireland.

Irish-owned and managed, the brand continues to broaden its appeal to holiday consumers, offering great value holidays to suit every budget at some of the best prices on the market, operating flights from Dublin, Cork, Shannon and Knock airports.

The company boasts more than 45,000 followers on Facebook and enjoys a Feefo rating of 4.75.

Consumers can also sign up to the GoHop weekly newsletter for unbeatable worldwide holiday deals and exciting product updates.

For further infromation, see GoHop.ie, or call 01 241 2389; on Facebook see GoHop.ie; on Twitter follow @GoHop_ie.

Farnham Estate marries classic comfort with contemporary touches to create a singularly relaxing destination

IRELAND | PAMPER YOURSELF WITH A DOMESTIC BREAK

De-stress and unwind here at home with lots of great offers to start the New Year in luxury SYLVIA POWNALL

Travel Editor COME the New Year, everyone’s thoughts turn to holidays – but if your piggy bank is feeling the pinch then a trip abroad just might not be possible.

Why not banish the stress of Christmas with a refreshing break closer to home?

Whether you opt for a reboot at Inchydoney or a mindfulness massage in Cavan, the options are endless.

We’ve chosen some of the best January pamper deals closer to home to ease you into 2019 ...

Farnham Estate Golf & Spa Resort Get the new year off

to a mindful start with a luxury overnight escape to Farnham Estate Golf & Spa Resort, at Coras Point, Cavan.

Arrive and relax over a light lunch in Cafe Vista overlooking the beautiful countryside surroundings before making your way to Farnham’s world-class health spa.

Enjoy time in the infinity swimming pool and experience a journey of the senses in the thermal suite, before unwinding that busy mind with an 80-minute ESPA Mindfulness Massage, which will calm both the mind and the body.

Mindfulness Moments at Farnham Estate costs from €149.50 PPS and includes an overnight stay with a buffet

breakfast, light lunch, massage and access to spa (see www.farnhamestate.ie).

Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa Start as you mean to continue with a Wellness Break in Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa at Clonakilty, Co Cork.

Escape to the sea with a two-night bed and breakfast with beautiful Atlantic views and a treatment in the calming surroundings of The Island Spa. Your Wellness Break also includes a slimming Algo body wrap, and a full body massage in The Island Spa, using Elemis Cellutox body oil, which contains sea buckthorn, sea fennel, lemon and juniper to help cleanse the body.

After your treatment you

Set amidst some of Cork’s most

can retire to one of their relaxation areas with stunning ocean views, and enjoy a herbal tea or juice.

The two-night Wellness Break, including access to the pool, sauna, steam room and gym, is available from €299 PPS (see www.inchydoneyisland.com).

Castlemartyr Resort Weary winter bodies can be revitalised at The Spa at Castlemartyr Resort in Co Cork with the Timexpert C+ Face and body envelopment treatment.

Designed to give your skin a much-needed boost, it starts with a Vitamin C exfoliation followed by a collagen-boosting body wrap while you are treated to an advanced anti-glycation facial.

In Cork, Castlemartyr guests will to leave any weary body or spirit

Utilising the benefits of Ume extract and Vitamin C, this facial fights against the damaged elastin and collagen fibres, leaving skin feeling revitalised and radiant.

Luxurious, tranquil and gorgeous, The Spa at Castlemartyr Resort is a

10 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

A celebration of Game of Thrones

breathtaking scenery, Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa offers guests a spectacular setting – with superb services and comfort to match

enjoy not only a stunning setting, but a range of treatments feeling refreshed and reinvigorated for the rest of 2019

spectacular centre where the wrap-around glass frontage surrounding the 20-metre swimming pool and water room gives unbeatable views out over this five-star country estate.

Treat tired skin to the Timexpert C+ Face and

Body Envelopment for €115 (see www.castlemartyrresort.ie).

The K Spa Make time for yourself to unwind and relax at The K Spa in Straffan, Co Kildare.

Avoid slipping back into

Long synonymous with luxury, The K Club has mastered the art of pampering guests, with a wide range of therapies to help relax and de-stress anyone

the same old routine by checking in to the luxurious surroundings of The K Club and explore the glorious grounds before treating yourself to a choice of therapies at The K Spa. Loosen any tension with a 50-minute signature massage, combin-

ing the very best Eastern and Western massage techniques but designed just for you, or refresh your skin with a 60-minute Natura Bisse Skin Comfort Facial, followed by enjoying a delightful 25 minutes of complete serenity in the rasul mud

chamber.

Enjoy a four-course meal in The K Club’s elegant Byerley Turk restaurant, before a blissful night’s sleep in peaceful surroundings.

Nab a January spa deal from €240 per person (see www.kclub.ie).

CALL your bannermen and get mobilised – Game of Thrones, The Touring Exhibition will make its debut visit to these shores at the TEC in Belfast from April to September.

The dramatic expo was designed by GES Events in collaboration with show creators HBO and combines costumes, authentic props and majestic settings from all seven seasons.

The result is a spectacular interactive and immersive GoT experience like no other – guaranteed to impress even the most devoted of superfans.

This is the largest Game of Thrones public display ever put together and it will be located in a 5,000sq m venue, set is in the shadow of the legendary Titanic Studios where scenes for the series were filmed over a ten-year period.

The exhibition will give fans the experience of a lifetime with an up-close and personal look at the artistry and craftmanship behind the Emmy awardwinning series.

The exhibition runs from April 11 to September 1. Tickets (from £15) are available at www.gameofthronesexhibition.co.uk, or www.discovernorthernireland.com.

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 10 January 2019

OBITUARIES | SOME OF THE GREATEST NAMES ON OR OFF THE SILVER SCREEN WHO PASSED AWAY

Those Cinema lost in 2018 WHILE every year sees some notable names joining ‘the obituary club’, 2018 was a particularly harsh year for Cinema lovers.

Although many of those  SHANE DILLON who passed away last year were elderly figures, plenty were not, with some talents burning out too soon while others are, perhaps, more dimly remembered.

However, all of them made their mark in Cinema in one way or another, and deserve to be noted, mourned – and celebrated – for their legacy. And with some of these figures also finding fame on the small screen, with newer technologies also providing renewed access to some of their notable works, here’s hoping that their names and contribution to Cinema will live on long into the future.

In no particular order (starting from the top left)...

1) MARGOT KIDDER Actress Oct 17, 1948 – May 13 FOREVER known as Lois Lane, there was a time when the Superman star had the world at her feet, before she crashed to earth, hard, becoming a subject of pity and concern in Hollywood.

Margot’s feisty, gutsy turn as Superman’s love interest charmed audiences, but the massive success that those films brought her – despite some notable turns in several other cinema and TV pro-jects – were offset by her personal difficulties.

A well-publicised nervous breakdown and mental health issues in later life left her largely sidelined, with Margot appearing in smaller roles and Indie films in later years, showing some of the passion and wit that had never deserted her.

2) NICOLAS ROEG Director, auteur Aug 15, 1928 – Nov 23 IT’S just over a month and a bit since Nicolas Roeg got a nod in your Gazette, but honestly, he’s more than worth returning to – much like his films, which reward repeat viewings.

While the 60s and 70s produced many cinema auteurs, few made their mark like Roeg, who regularly turned out one effort-

lessly bizarre, memorable film after another, directing stars who were at or rising to the peak of their cinema fame, such as Mick Jagger, or David Bowie.

More than anything else, however, his masterpiece – Don’t Look Now – remains a very singular work that almost defies definition or categorisation, with its funereal Venice setting and creeping horror being something that’s once seen, never forgotten.

3) BURT REYNOLDS Actor, sex symbol Feb 11, 1936 – Sept 6 OFTEN called “the sexiest man on the planet”, Burt Reynolds was a master player in the Hollywood system, channelling natural charisma and appeal into an international AAAlist power in the 70s/80s.

If many of his later films and TV roles were poor, audiences largely forgave him, with Burt often playing on his macho-man appeal to take on less serious roles, sending himself up in roles before it became commonplace for many stars to do so.

In later years, Burt enjoyed a mini renaissance, popping up in small or cameo roles, and seemingly rarely brooding on the many roles and characters he infamously turned down, including James Bond and Han Solo.

PIC 1

PIC 2

PIC 3

PIC 4

PIC 5

PIC 6

PIC 7

PIC 8

PIC 9

4) R. LEE ERMEY Actor, benchmark Mar 24, 1944 – Apr 15 THERE are few character actors who can make an impact like R Lee Ermey did, with his 1987 portrayal of the fearsome Gunnery Sergeant Hartman in Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket still the benchmark of on-screen toughness.

As a former US Marine Corps drill sergeant himself, Ermey was born to play the terrifying sergeant with a passion that he channelled into similarly authoritarian roles.

With a wry grasp of the power of his fearsome image, Ermey popped up as a no-nonsense tough guy in all kinds of unlikely places, voicing characters in everything from the likes of Toy Story to Spongebob Squarepants.

5) PENNY MARSHALL Director, actress Oct 15, 1943 – Dec 17 EFFORTLESSLY able to make audiences laugh

both at her comic acting and her films alike, Penny Marshall made her mark on the small and big screens, delighting millions in TV’s Laverne and Shirley before she turned her hand to directing.

Not only was she the first female director to smash the $100m mark, she made Tom Hanks a star with Big – just one of a string of hits that, like her smash film of almost the same name, truly placed her in a league of her own.

6) STAN LEE Writer, publisher, legend Dec 28, 1922 – Nov 12 ALTHOUGH he’s another figure who got a recent nod in the Gazette to lament his passing, there’s still something a little sad about a world without ‘Uncle’ Stan Lee. Once ‘just’ best known as Spider-man’s creator, Stan created, fleshed out and developed a dizzying number of characters and worlds, saying that

coming up with ideas was never a problem, but finding the time to get to them all was.

The past couple of decades saw many of his works explode onto cinema screens, creating a vast range of Marvel films, TV shows and spin-off material that largely owes it all to one avuncular old gent.

7) HARLAN ELLISON Author, scriptwriter May 27, 1934 – June 28 YOU could easily fill a page or two just on Harlan alone, such was the dizzying output and reach of the legendary writer.

Often found in the midst of one falling out or controversy after another, the prolific – to put it mildly – writer busied himself in many creative media, reaching into cinema, television, radio and other outlets with some of the 20th Century’s finest Science Fiction.

His shadow loomed over all manner of pop culture

hits, from Star Trek to lesser works, with many films and entire genres picking up direct influences from his work, while it’s also impossible to disregard his influence on a vast number of TV series.

8) ISAO TAKAHATA Director, screenwriter Oct 29, 1935 – Apr 5 YOU may not know the name ‘Isao Takahata’, but you certainly know his works, as Takahata-san’s arguably most famous accomplishment was as a co-founder of the legendary Studio Ghibli.

Together with longtime collaborative partner Hayao Miyazaki, and Toshio Suzuki and Yasuyoshi Tokuma, the Japanese director was a driving force behind a number of striking anime, with Ghibli’s singular vision charming global audiences in recent decades.

Takahata-san’s last film as director was The Tale of the Princess Kaguya

(2013), nominated for an Academy award, with his typically delicate focus on human connection proving a fine swansong.

9) VERNE TROYER Actor, comedian Jan 1, 1969 – Apr 21 LAST but definitely not least, news of Verne Troyer’s death at 49 shocked people around the world, marking one of the few times they weren’t laughing when the actor and comedian came to mind.

As one of the shortest people in the world, the 2’ 8” star channelled his energy into comedy, providing a stalwart foil as Mini-Me alongside Mike Myers’ Dr Evil character – a role which brought Verne his greatest success, putting him on the global map.

He would reprise several funnyman-sidekick roles in a number of other films, teaming up with Myers in other projects, as well as proving a staple of several reality TV shows.

10 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

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

ENTERTAINMENT

QUIKFLIX FLIX Streaming the latest news

Albert Square may be set for its first ever gay bar IN A BID to reflect a more diverse London, the new executive producer of EastEnders has said that a gay bar may open on the legendary Albert Square in the next year.

New senior executive producer Kate Oates joined the much loved soap recently from Coronation Street.

Oates said that she’s ‘really interested’ in introducing more LGBT characters into EastEnders, adding that “maybe we will have a new precinct for [the LGBT characters] as well”.

In a view posted to the official EastEnders Twitter account, Oates said: “We are looking at opening a gay bar on the square which will be a super-cool precinct where gay and straight characters can just hang out and loads of stories can cross.

“It should just be something really exciting, really fun, really visual and feel really true to multicultural London. Hopefully that will be something exciting for the next year.”

RTE launch revamped online streaming service THE RTE PLAYER has received a facelift recently, with a number of original shows and favourites being added to the platform.

Taking on other streaming giants with the new-look layout, there’s a number of original programmes on offer on the player that can’t be seen elsewhere.

These include the likes of Capsule, a fashion series following six Irish fashion bloggers as they create their perfect wardrobe, and ‘One Day You’ll Understand’, a stand-up special with Des Bishop exclusive to the player.

RTE have also added cult favourite, the American series Dawson’s Creek to their online line-up, in addition to former RTE reality show Fade Street.

Stranger Summer

Three of the main cast of Bandersnatch- Asim Chaudhry (Mohan) , Will Poulter (Colin), and Fionn Whitehead (Stefan)

New Black Mirror special Bandersnatching attention RACHEL D’ARCY

IF YOU’VE seen the name Bandersnatch on social media and scrunched your nose in confusion recently, you’re not alone.

The latest Black Mirror installment has been garnering a ton of hype, namely as it’s Netflix’s first interactive movie.

That’s right - you get to choose what happens next, reflecting the ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ game created in the hour and a half long special.

Starring Fionn White-

head as game designer Stefan, it’s set in the 80’s as he attempts to recreate the book Bandersnatch in video game format.

Fans of Black Mirror will be familiar with the ‘altered reality’ concept of the show, taking a dark viewpoint on life and scenarios, and Bandersnatch is no different.

The opportunity to choose Stefan’s fate is enticing, but one was left wondering when it would take a turn for the worse for our protagonist, the mundane part of the spe-

cial seemingly dragging on, perhaps to acquaint the viewer with the concept of choice on offer.

The whole adventure is billed to only last an hour and a half, but ultimately it requires much more of your time and attention. It’s not something you can put on and half watch after work - you need to be focused on why you’re making your choices, otherwise you may be forced to ‘go back’ or ‘start again’ if you choose incorrectly, leading to an increased viewing time too.

There’s ten endings to

Cult favourite to return to screens in July RACHEL D’ARCY

ONE OF Netflix’s biggest hits, Stranger Things, will return for it’s highly anticipated third season on July 4.

Making the announcement on New Year’s Eve, the supernatural show is expected to take place during the summer

break from school for the main cast.

The third season has been teased for months, with eager fans desperate for a release date for months, since the first teaser released in July 2018 let fans know a third season was definitely on the way.

It was confirmed in

2017 that there would be a third season, leaving fans waiting over 18 months for the third installment.

Speculation is rife as to what the third season will involve, with some key guesses hinting at the involvement of technology, ‘demo-rats’ and perhaps some Russian

involvement too.

This is all based off the video confirming the release date, with fans of the show knowing that hints and clues frequently appear in trailers and posters for the show.

Season three will see the main cast returning, including Millie Bobby

Brown as Eleven, Finn Wolfhard as Mike, Caleb McLoughlin as Lucas, Joe Keery as Steve Harrington, Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin, Noah Schnapp as Will and more recurring characters. There will also be a new cast member – Robin, played by Maya Hawke.

Bandersnatch, with a number of them tragic, or slightly confusing. It’s not for the faint of heart when it comes to some aspects, and could potentially be upsetting to some viewers, though it comes with a content warning so it really is at your own risk.

Stefan also becomes seemingly self aware of the viewer’s control at one point, providing a slight sadistic form of entertainment when you realise you’re ultimately in control of his destiny.

It’s an exciting concept, the interactive element,

but it’s difficult to foresee how Netflix will implement it on something outside of Black Mirror, or indeed outside of this particular plot.

Finding myself growing a little weary at times - having to stop and start once or twice - it’s your typical Black Mirror episode once you’re willing to put the work in. Not one of Black Mirror’s finest, but it still provides that spinetingling shudder that the show is famous for.

Black Mirror: Bandersnatch is available now on Netflix.

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 10 January 2019

ENTERTAINMENT GOING OUTOUT

GET TUNED IN WITH WHAT’S ON

PUNK AND

CIRCUMSTANCE

PICK

OF THE WEEK

JANUARY 14 Christy Moore @ Vicar Street, €49 The closing shows of an extended residency at Vicar Street for the trad legend take place this week, with Christy plays the last of eight nights in the iconic Dublin 8 venue.

JANUARY 10 (THURSDAY) The 1975 + Pale Waves @ 3Arena, €41 Samarkand @ Whelan’s, €17 Fergus Daly @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €10

JANUARY 11 (FRIDAY) David Keenan @ Whelan’s, sold out

JANUARY 12 (SATURDAY) 2 Many DJs @ Tivoli Theatre (late), €25 As the Liberties venue begins its wind-down before being turned into another hotel, ‘DIstrict 8’ begins its last hurrah. The Belgian duo 2 Many DJs are certain to get the place bouncing.

Rebel Rebel - the David Bowie Experience @ The Academy, €28 David Keenan @ Whelan’s, sold out JC Stewart @ Whelan’s Upstairs, sold out

JANUARY 14 (MONDAY) Christy Moore @ Vicar Street, €49

JANUARY 15 (TUESDAY) Mastodon @ The Olympia Theatre, €37 Christy Moore @ Vicar Street, €49 Chris Leonard @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €10

JANUARY 16 (WEDNESDAY) Neil and Liam FInn @ The Olympia Theatre, €40 One To Watch Festival @ Whelan’s, €5

DUBLIN’S CURRENT penchant for vibrant, pulsating rock bands is one that’s grabbed headlines across Europe, a pattern that looks set to continue.

Silverbacks, a five-piece punk outfit centred around brothers Daniel and Kilian O’Kelly, are a band inspired by grit, a DIY ethos and a fraught social conscience, and the latest to look all set for breakout.

Having already formed a label, PK Miami (though it’s solely for their own music), and settled on a distinctive style of swirling, deeply layered guitar, there are big plans in place for Silverbacks in 2019, including releasing a debut album, and touring as much as humanly possible.

Their roots have stood to them.

“Doing it DIY was initially a necessity and eventually became a natural progression that made sense for the band,” frontman Daniel O’Kelly explains of the act’s

 JAMES HENDICOTT

progression.

“We’ve never really known anything else and it’s been fun, but it’s not necessarily and ethos we’re married to.

“A good few of our favourite bands started out this way, such as Yo La Tengo and Sonic Youth. I think it often stands to a band if they’ve been doing things for themselves and writing songs for a number of years before they get picked up by a wider audience.

“Moving to a full band and a proper studio has allowed us to be more adventurous and have much more freedom with what we can write and record.

“The likes of [singles] ‘Dunkirk’ and ‘Just In The Band’ would have never worked if we had tried to

record them in our bedroom.”

“We got compared to The Wire last week,” O’Kelly says of the recent attention the band have gained in the media.

“I enjoyed that one. I take the ‘Pavement’ and ‘Television’ comparisons as a compliment, we definitely ‘borrow’ a few of their tricks.

Both bands had their own unique sound and I’d like to think that we do too.”

The band’s recording link

most recent single, ‘Just In The Band’.

The result is a glorious parade of distortion, headspinning and titillating, and not afraid to take a swipe in the lyrics, including, somewhat comically, at the idea that they might succeed in early melody ‘Not Ones To Watch’.

The tracks kind of tighten in an intense coil of jarring guitar, before unleashing into explosive, frantic chorus

in naturally with one of the scene’s biggest success stories, Girl Band, and even feature Daniel Fox from that act on production duties for

lines.

In ‘Just In The Band’, things reach peak intensity, in a setcentring track that seems to flow at breakneck speed from

“

Moving to a full band and a proper studio has allowed us to be more adventurous and have much more freedom with what we can write and record

start to fiery finish. Despite the punk-ethos, the band jokingly insist their key aim for the coming year is to get a track on a popular TV show, or write a hit Christmas song.

“Kilian and I have found that the best way we write songs is for one of us to start with an idea and the other to finish it,” Daniel O’Kelly says.

“Thinking of guitar hooks is something that comes naturally enough to us so what often happens is that a demo will eventually have too many guitar layers.

“We’ll then restructure the demo and strip it back so that there are three or four layers.

We then take the song to the band and between Peadar, Kilian and myself we work out the best way to play the guitar parts.

“Peadar and Kilian have their own distinct guitar styles and the two of them work together like a dynamic football partnership, Henry and Bergkamp. I’m more of a Mathieu Flamini.”

10 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!

CODEWORDS

You could advertise here

PUZZLES

SUDOKU EASY

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

WORD SEARCH

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

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

FIND THE HIDDEN WORDS AIMED ANSWER APPLICANT CARDINAL CHRISTMAS DILUTING DYNAMO EXPEND FRIEND GERMAN

GRITTED JAIL NAPPING PARKER PARTIALLY SKILL STRATAGEM UNUSUALLY VENTURING ZERO

To advertise here please contact sales@dublingazette.com or call 01 6010240

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 10 January 2019

DUBLINGAZETTECLASSIFIEDS  FINGAL DVD TRANSFERS

ROOFING

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

INSURANCE CLAIMS

WINDOWS

LOCALMATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZET TE CALL 60 10 240

10 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 25

FINGAL  DUBLINGAZETTECLASSIFIEDS RECRUITMENT

LOCALMATTERS

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

ADVERTISE WITH THE DUBLIN GAZETTE CALL 60 10 240

GazetteAdvertising The best low cost advertising for your business

tes are Our ad ra at

e always gr value!

call us on 60 10 240

26 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 10 January 2019

10 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

BASKETBALL P29

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

BLUE TARGET: LADIES FOOTBALL: DUBLIN footballer Noelle Healy says she’s glad to have a target on her back after a remarkable 2018 campaign that saw the Girls in Blue lift a championship and league double.

And the Beaumont Hospital anaesthetist says the pressure both from within the Dublin panel and from other counties looking to knock them off their perch is just what she wants.



GAZETTE

RUGBY P28

PAGE 31

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS BASKETBALL | SUPER LEAGUE

Templeogue riding high in Star showing  sport@dublingazette.com

TEMPLEOGUE lead the way at the top of the men’s Super League after a thrilling 83-81 point victory over Belfast Star.

It was Star’s second game of the weekend having overcome Pyrobel Killester in nail-biting (92-88) fashion on Saturday evening as part of an action-packed two days of top of the table action.

Sunday’s game saw them stage a late comeback against the Dubliners to see the game in the melting pot right up until the final buzzer.

Neil Randolph and Stephen James got some crucial scores at the death for Templeogue to send them home to victory.

Templeogue’s American, Dee Proby, was also one of the standouts on the day, finishing the clash with 21 points.

Speaking afterwards, Templeogue head coach Mark Keenan said: “It

was such an intense battle. It went right to the wire when it looked like, with five minutes to go, that we got a 10-point lead and would go home happy.

“But you can never count Star out and they fought until the end and I’m just relieved that we came out on the right side because it could very easily have gone the other way.

“At different parts, people made different big plays. Neil Randolph’s three was massive after they had hit a number of threes. Stephen [James] making that free throw gave us that little extra buffer.”

Elsewhere, DBS Éanna are now the only unbeaten team remaining in the Men’s Division One after they defeated Limerick Celtics 58-90. Neil Lynch scored 27 points for the Dubliners in a huge winning effort.

Indeed, it was wins all round for the Dublin teams in this opening weekend of cross conference games with Abbey Seals Dublin Lions recording

Neil Randolph (33) landed a crucial three-pointer for Templeogue to send them top of the table. Picture: Martin Doherty

a big 66-91 point victory over LIT on Saturday with Igor Markiewicz dropping 25 points on the night.

Bad Bobs Tolka Rovers were also victorious, running out 72-89 point winners over UL Sport Eagles in Limerick. Despite a whopping 39-point display from Tarchee Brown, it was not enough to get them to victory.

In the Women’s Super League, DCU Mercy also continued their impressive winning streak, defeating IT Carlow Basketball 39-65 on the road on Saturday to keep the pressure on Liffey Celtics at the top of the table.

Sarah Woods top-scored for the Dubliners with 19 points as they controlled the game from start to finish.

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 10 January 2019

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

1

FINGALLIANS THE academy returns on Saturday, January 12 after the Christmas break on the All Weather pitch from 10am til 11.30am. New members always welcome.

Annual membership is now due , the club have introduced Two new methods of payment one is an App for Smart Phones called Myclubfinance and can be found on Android and Apple App stores, when you open the App look for Fingallians in the Club search. Also, its a great way to play the club Lotto on line as you can play the same numbers for given amount of weeks. The other method is in the Desktop log on to https://clubforce.com and follow the same process as the App. We are trying to get members to pay online more so than the bar it is a quicker and easier way to pay your membership.

Ladies U-16 football: Super night in the club on Friday night last .Well done to all who organised the Graduation night for our U16 ladies who now move in to the Adult section of the club. Great undertaking by Mentors Parents Sponsors and Supporters to host the night for the girls all go on to a super next stage in their football career.

Hurling : The club are running a new initiative to re-use any hurling helmets and hurls that are lying around your home. Anybody wishing to donate hurls or helmets, drop them in to the bar.

Dancing : The Monday Night Dancing has returned on Monday nights in the club hall. Open to all, no partner required, just show up. Fee is €10 from 8pm tip 11pm, all types of dancing catered for; contact Patricia on 085 730 7173. Bring out your inner Strictly come dancing!

Camogie Level 1 Course : A level 1 Camogie course will be held in O’Dwyers GAA Club in Balbriggan on January 25/26 and February 1/2; anybody interested, contact Anne Marie Brett, please note you must have completed a Foundation course to attend this course.

The Ladies annual Dub Stars Games take place in DCU Sports Grounds, starting at 11.30am with the junior game and 1.30pm for the senior game.

Admission is FOC with an option to donate to the chosen charity “Daniel’s Voyage’. Best of luck to Emer Ni Eafa in the senior game and Lauryn Campbell in the junior game; there will be serious talent on display so get out and support the Ladies.

Social Football is back on the All Weather pitch on Friday nights from 8pm; great way of running off the Christmas excess. New players always welcome; just contact Mark Butler.

NAOMH MEARNOG IT’S THE beginning of a new year and we wish all our teams and mentors the very best of luck in 2019. In the case of our younger teams in particular, let us always remember to keep the “FUN” in all of our activities.

We thank thank you to Dave Storey who steps down after three years in charge of our senior footballers. Our new manager will be Damian Doyle and we wish him all the best.

Congratulations to Aoibhe Dillon and Laura Twomey who have been

selected on the Dublin senior camogie squad for 2019.

All teams are reminded that before organising challenge games you must get county board approval in advance.

The club is offering an Early Bird Incentive of 5% back on your club Loyalty card to all members who pay their 2019 membership fees in full before the end of January.

The club lotto jackpot is now €6,850. Please ensure you always have a ticket!

RUGBY: ULSTER SWEPT ASIDE BY DOMINANT LEINSTER

Frawley and Conor O’Brien kick the blues into top gear PRO14  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

LEINSTER head coach Leo Cullen has backed Conor O’Brien to make the step up to Champions Cup rugby if required for the pivotal Pool 1 clash on Saturday afternoon.

The Clontarf centre scored a scintillating try and was rewarded with the man of the match honour as the blue province eviscerated Ulster at the RDS last weekend.

Sean Cronin touched down twice, while Andrew Porter and Jamison Gibson-Park also crossed the whitewash as Cullen’s side cruised to a 40-7 bonus point win.

Skerries man Ciaran Frawley nailed four conversions as he started at out-half. However, it was the performance of O’Brien that really caught the eye.

Ringrose’s regular partner Robbie Henshaw has returned to training ‘under

medical supervision’ this week after injuring his hamstring during the November internationals.

Rory O’Loughlin and Noel Reid deputised for Henshaw in home and away wins over Bath respectively, but O’Brien offers a more off-the-cuff threat with ball in hand.

“We have been talking quite a bit about it – Conor is definitely a live option for us,” Cullen said in the aftermath of the Ulster win.

“He’s a very strong ball carrier and he’s got a big left foot as well. He’s getting better all the time and learning and understanding what is required of him.

“We’re trying to test him out again and in the training environment [and] we hope it pays off when they get their opportunity.

“It’s something we will consider for sure ahead of the Tuesday deadline.

I saw a lot of Conor when he was with the Ireland under-20s and thought he

Skerries man Ciaran Frawley lands a conversion for Leinster against Ulster.

Picture: Martin Doherty

was one of the standouts then.

“He needs to understand that we have confidence, so when we put him in there, we think he is ready.

“He just needs to back himself now because he has lots of ability and we have got a lot of confidence in him.”

The 23-year-old, who represented Westmeath up to minor level in Gaelic football, has had to be patient while Ireland under-20 teammates James Ryan and Porter have kicked on.

And he revealed that he took matters into his own hands at the beginning of the season to ensure management were paying him his due attention.

“I went into Leo at the start of the year and was like, ‘What do I have to do here to get some opportunities?’

“There was one day when I was training with all the first-year players.

I was in the academy so maybe it was a bit big of me to do.

“I was kind of like, ‘I deserve to be training with

the big guys here’. I went up after and went, ‘Something needs to change here’.

“I can either lie down and accept that’s going to be the way — or if you don’t like the situation, you have to change what you are doing.

“Leo told me, ‘Stay involved in the games and take your opportunities when they come and build on a good Celtic Cup’.

“Leo’s given me the opportunities and has full confidence in me. I appreciate that an awful lot.”

Garda RFC in full flow

The Garda Westmanstown RFC club members that enjoyed their festive showdown.

G A R D A W E S T M A N S T OW N scarcely took a break from rugby over the festive period as they hosted their annual Christmas fun match on December 29.

The event had members and their families from all sections of the club take part in a fun match which included an Old Bulls against Young Bulls section as well as kids versus adults.

Rugby training is now back and

in full swing for all teams at the club.

Training for minis is 11am on Sunday mornings, youths train midweek evenings, senior men and women train on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and the Wasps, the club’s special needs team, train on Sundays at 12pm.

For information, contact Karen on gardarfcpro@gmail.com or 086 397 3668.

10 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

BASKETBALL TOUGH FESTIVE PERIOD FOR ALSAA-BASED CLUB ON NATIONAL STAGE

Swords Thunder struck down

by Meteors and Killester DIVISION ONE NORTH CONFERENCE  sport@dublingazette.com

SWORDS Thunder’s tricky time in the women’s Division One Northern Conference continued as they succumbed to high-flying Trinity Meteors 71-54.

The result sees Trinity keep the pressure on Ulster University Elks at the top of the Northern Conference as they recorded their second league victory against Thunder this season.

Despite playing without Rebecca Raberio. Thunder’s intensity meant that they led for the first nineteen minutes through top scorers, Peggy Black and Tia Kelly Stephens.

They were right in the mix at half-time with Trinity ekeing out a 32-31 lead at the break as Anna

Brennan also showed up well.

Black would end with 17 points with Stephens weighing in with 10.

But Meteors were shooting their way to victory with a dominant second half showing. Sarah Kenny’s performance lifted her into the top scorers as Meteors depth on the bench easily subdued a Thunder team who were exhausted in the final quarter.

After losing their Cup game to Elks back in December, Trinity Meteors’ head coach, Vinny O’Keeffe was pleased with his side’s first victory after the Christmas break.

“I always hate games after Christmas because you never know what kind of performance you’re going to get. Swords came out firing and we gave ourselves a

hole that we had to dig ourselves out of. But they kept with it and kept with it, and by the end of the game we were running strong.”

It concluded a difficult festive period for the Swords club with their men’s team losing just before the turn of the year to north Dublin rivals Pyrobel Killester 79-63.

Solid displays from Royce Williams, Paddy Sullivan and Alex Herreros saw the hosts into a 51-33 point lead at half-time and they didn’t look back from there.

Bobby Ahern, Antonio Adunga, Oisin Kerlin and Isaac Westbrooks all scored well but they could not get back into range. The result leaves Swords in eighth place in the division with nine rounds to play, needing to make up nine points to have a shot at the playoffs.

St Mochta’s celebrate a goal against Drumcondra

Swords’ Isaac Westbrooks attempts to stall Killester’s Ciaran Roe. Picture: Martin Doherty

Mochta’s Drum up cup win CHARLIE CAHILL CUP  JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

ST MOCHTA’S got the better of Drumcondra/ Stella Maris 5-1 in the Charlie Cahill Cup under lights on Friday night, as a bitty first half gave way to a second half goal-glut.

The game saw Luke Kelly return from injury after an extended period on the sideline to feature for Leinster Senior League top tier Saints against their struggling secondtier opposition/ Fo r m e r M o c h t a ’s

schoolboy Alan Byrne made his club senior debut in a game originally scheduled to be played in Drumcondra but reversed to Porterstown Road at late notice.

Mochta’s had slightly the better of a scrappy first half, forcing Drumcondra’s goalkeeper into a couple of sharp saves, but found their post-Christmas rhythm straight after half time, effectively ending the tie in ten powerful minutes straight after the break.

C a t h a l O ’Co n n o r ’s opening goal came almost

straight from kick off, as he slid home a pull back into the heart of the area into the corner of the net.

Kenny Carr flicked past a wrong-footed goalkeeper from a few yards out shortly afterwards, and Dean Kelly thrashed home a penalty on 51 minutes to give Mochta’s a comfortable lead early in the second period.

Kelly’s penalty came when he was brought down clean through on goal for what would have been a third, and his scrambled fourth and a fifth that found its way

in via a parry from the Drumcondra goalkeeper had Mochta’s 5-0 up and cruising, and Kelly completing a hat trick.

Drumcondra pulled a goal back with ten minutes remaining amid a belated period of dominance for the paper-only home team but it was too little, too late.

Mochta’s, who’ve been charging their batteries in the absence of competitive action since the end of November, have still lost just a single game since the start of the season.

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 10 January 2019

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

2

ST BRIGID’S OUR CLUB nursery will resume this Saturday, January 12 at 9.30am. All 4-7 year old boys and girls are welcome to come down and join in the fun!

2019 Club Memberships are now due and can be paid online via our Club Website. As always, the deadline is March 31 after which players will not be permitted to play or train.

A huge thank you to everyone who supports St Brigid’s Club Lotto and thanks to our hard-working Lotto Committee. Our next Lotto draw is in The Greyhound when the Jackpot will be €9,400 on January 17.

All our grass pitches in Russell Park and Collegefort are now out of use to allow for maintenance and recovery.

The club are delighted to be part of the GAA’s National Club Draw again this year with a top prize of a new Renault Car up for grabs.

Tickets are €10 and are available from the bar or from team mentors.

Closing date for return of tickets is January 23.

Managers, mentors and coaches are needed for adult football for 2019 and for our Senior Ladies Footballers - if you are willing to come forward or have somebody to recommend please contact pro.stbrigids. dublin@gaa.ie or phone 0868229312.

Deepest sympathies to the Mannion and Horan / McCarrick families on their recent losses.

Keep up with all our news on our website www.stbrigidsgaa.com our Club App and our Facebook and Twitter pages.

The Junior Dub Stars will take place at 11.30am on Sunday in DCU. Picture: GAAPics.com

SKERRIES HARPS HAPPY New Year to all our members, players, supporters and friends. We look forward to your continued support of Skerries Harps during 2019.

Congratulations to Alix Buckley on her selection to the Dublin Senior Camogie Team for 2019. Best of luck with the year ahead Alix!

Zingo Result: 6-7-4-1-5-2-3. We had no winners of Jackpot or Dividend.

Next week’s Jackpot €3200, Dividend €150.

Next draw will take place on Sunday, January 13 at 6.30pm in the clubhouse.

How do you win? You buy. a ticket! You can also play on line at skerriesharps. ie and follow the links. Entries only €2 each or 3 for €5.

Reminder Skerries Harps Annual Membership fees are now due and are available for renewal online at www. skerriesharps.ie/club-membership.

All players (Adult & Juvenile) must have membership and injury fund fees paid up to date before commencement

of the 2019 season.

Many thanks to all who supported the annual Christmas Tree Collection Fundraiser.

Academy recommences Saturday, January 19 at 10am - registration Saturday, January 12 from 10-11am.

Gormanston indoor hurling/camogie tournament commences Sunday, January 20. Team mentors will be sharing details with all relevant groups from U-8 to U-11.

Clubhouse available for Functions/ Parties - Contact Pat on 087-2505479 for details, or email bookings.skerriesharps@gmail.com.

The club extends it’s Deepest Sympathy to Kathleen McPoland and family on the passing of their mother Phyllis, to Peter Farmer and family on the passing of his brother Rob Farmer and to Lorraine O’Byrne (Richardson) and family on the recent passing of Declan O’Byrne.

May they rest in peace.

HURLING: DUBLIN THROUGH TO GALWAY IN SEMIS

Kenny content as Walsh Cup run keeps on rolling WALSH CUP Laois 1-16 Dublin 1-18  sport@dublingazette.com

DUBLIN battled to victory in Sunday’s Walsh Cup clash at O’Moore Park, Portlaoise to progress to the semi-finals, scoring six of the last eight points to land the victory to set up a semi-final date with Galway.

Laois led 1-14 to 1-12 after 13 minutes of the second-half before Dublin came alive again with John Hetherton and subs Fergal Whitely and Oisin O’Rorke on target to seal victory.

The sides were level 1-8 each at the break after both sides had enjoyed sustained periods of dominance.

“The Walsh Cup is a preseason tournament. So we’re taking it as that and we’re working it towards the league and January 26 (NHL opener versus Carlow),” said Dublin manager Mattie Kenny who fielded St Brigid’s goalkeeper Alan Nolan and Setanta’s Fintan McGibb

in the line-up.

“We want to use the Walsh Cup games to look at as many players as possible and get a bit of hurling into everyone.

“This week is our first week back in the new year.

We had a heavy training week and today’s game was part of that training week.

“I know it was a preseason game but there’s still a bit of competitive edge to it. You still want to get your nose ahead at the finish,” he added.

Early on, Dublin created several goal opportunities as John Hetherton opened Dublin’s account in the second minute with a 65-metre free and the goal came soon after when Eamon Dillon fired to the net following a clever bat down by Hetherton.

Points from Cian Boland and Dillon extended Dublin’s lead to 1-3 to 0-1.

The Dubs continued to hold the upperhand and led 1-6 to 0-3 by the 15th minute following scores by Hetherton and one from play from Cian Boland.

CRICKET Peter Chasing Sri Lankan glory MALAHIDE’S Peter Chase has been called into the Ireland Wolves cricket team for their ongoing tour to Sri Lanka following an injury to Barry McCarthy.

The 25-year-old paceman comes in with the potential to play a part first off against Sri Lanka on January 13 for a fourday match.

The tour will encompass five one day international matches after that.

Picture: seb daly / sportsfile

St Brigid’s man Alan Nolan lined out in goal for Dublin’s hurlers in the Walsh Cup tie against Laois.

However, the home side then turned the game around and hit 1-5 without reply to move 1-8 to 1-6 clear with half-time approaching courtesy of an Aaron Dunphy goal.

Chief freetaker PJ Scully also converted three points from placed balls

while keeper Rowland struck over a monster free.

Dublin responded well before the interval with Hetherton hitting two points in quick succession to bring the sides level.

And they duly kicked on in the closing quarter to land the victory.