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Leisure centre alarm as database compromised Portmarnock facility contacts members with warning to check their bank accounts

 SYLVIA POWNALL GYM members’ personal information, including their bank account details, may have been accessed by hackers, it has emerged.

Portmarnock Sports and

Leisure Centre (PSLC) last week sent out a security notice to members informing them that its database had been compromised.

The PSLC also advised members to check their bank accounts for any sign

of irregularities.

Signed Management & Committee PSLC, the notice reads: “We wish to notify you that our database has been compromised despite our efforts to keep the data secure.”

It went on to warn: “We would advise you to check your bank account for any irregular or unauthorised transactions and contact your bank immediately if necessary.”

Full Story on Page 4

2 FINGAL GAZETTE 15 December 2016

DONABATE | NOTORIOUS BLACK SPOT TO BE WIDENED, REALIGNED

The end is nigh for Hearse Road bend  SYLVIA POWNALL

A NOTORIOUS accident black spot in Donabate is set to be made safer for drivers in the New Year.

The sharp bend at Hearse Road – the scene of three road accidents in the past year alone – has been earmarked for widening and realignment.

There has been a sharp increase in road smashes at the black spot this year.

In July, two drivers had miraculous escapes after a collision left one car on its side and the other with a smashed windscreen.

In September, a taxi driver escaped with minor injuries after his cab left the road and flipped over at the notorious bend.

The aftermath of a crash in July at the black spot bend. Picture: Fire service’s Twitter page

This prompted local Cllr Adrian Henchy (FF) to call on the council’s chief executive, Paul Reid, to take action. He visited the scene of the crash and

immediately appointed consultants to consider safety issues.

Cllr Henchy said: “I understand this work has now been completed and the engineers have made a number of recommendations centred around the realignment of the road in and around the bad bend.

“The final stage will involve negotiations and discussions between all relevant stakeholders and the works will require significant funding.

“But I am reassured by the priority the council is giving to this really important safety issue.”

Meanwhile, Senator

James Reilly (FG) has called for the construction of a second bridge in Donabate to be prioritised by the council when applying for funding for large infrastructural projects.

He said: “The peninsula is choked at the bridge beside the railway station.

With the building of the new hospital and the number of people now living in the area, there needs to be a second bridge.

“Two buses cannot pass each other on the existing bridge.”

He added that a second overpass would open up the land around the peninsula to allow for more housing – with a provision that 40% of it be affordable.

Senator Reilly said: “At the moment, Donabate is being strangled and it needs to be freed from this.”

Swords Garda Station. Picture: Google Maps

‘Tackle the parking outside the station’  SYLVIA POWNALL SWORDS gardai stand accused of causing an obstruction – and have been ordered to sort out the number of cars parked on the footpath outside the station.

Councillors raised the thorny issue at an area meeting of Fingal County Council last week – and warned it was time for the boys in blue to sort it out.

Cllr Joe New man (Lab) said he had received a complaint from a constituent whose visually impaired daughter struggles to pass the station because of cars blocking the footpath.

He added: “It’s right beside the police station, and nothing’s done about it.”

He urged that bollards be put outside the garda station on Main Street to deter motorists – but this was ruled out of order by a council engineer.

Officials have agreed, however, to write to gardai and ask them to take action.

Cllr Eugene Coppinger (AAA) said he supported the idea of formally raising their concerns.

He added: “I’m not suggesting for a minute that it’s gardai that are parking there, but that is what happens outside other garda stations – they park outside.

“There are cars there partly on the footpath, and fully on the footpath, and they are a huge obstruction to the visually impaired and parents with buggies.

“If we are not in a position to put down plastic bollards, then we should at least write a strong letter to the garda station expressing our disgust at the situation there.”

A report from local authority officials notes: “It is an offence under the Roads Act to park a vehicle on a footpath.”

FASTNews

Staffless libraries plans met with stiff opposition

Belmayne boy brushes up on his art at IMMA exhibition FREDDY McGoldrick, of Belmayne Youth Club, is pictured taking a closer look at an exhibition created by the children of Belmayne at The Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA), as part of Dublin’s Culture Connects ‘It Takes a Village...’ initiative. Members of the club took part in a series of mapping and explorer art workshops with artist Seoidon O’Sullivan and local landscape architect Roisin Byrne, creating aerial and 3D maps of Belmayne. Children from Belmayne and Coolock partnered with IMMA to build a sense of local identity through the artistic endeavour, with their works going on show to friends, family members and visitors at the popular art museum. Picture: Kevin Handy

PLANS for staffless libraries in Fingal have met with stiff opposition from staff and public representatives. IMPACT trade union has already balloted members – who are against the move – and Cllr Malachy Quinn (SF) says there are “serious concerns”. Earlier this month, Fingal County Council said it proposed to pilot the controversial scheme in Donabate and Portrane.

But Cllr Quinn warned: “There are widespread fears around health and safety protections for library users and workers, and the possible erosion of staff terms and conditions. If staffless services are deemed an option, councils will inevitably seek further savings by extending unstaffed services into core opening times. This measure will short-change communities across Fingal.”

15 December 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 3

YULE be amazed by these blinging colourful homes

WELL, it’s that time of year again – no, we don’t just mean the season of good will to all, but a time for many people all over the world to show off just how much they love Christmas.

And when we say they love Christmas, we mean they really, really, really love Christmas, judging by their blinged-up homes.

They certainly look dazzling and amazing, as well as probably being visible from space.

And, judging by just some of the homes we’ve seen all around Dublin, plenty of our readers could give these houses a run for their money when it comes to showing Santa exactly where to call. (With these many lights, he could hardly miss their houses!)

WIN!!!

C’MON, readers – we’ve seen lots of great houses all over the city which really get into the spirit of the season, and we’d love to show everyone just how great your house looks! So, send us pics of your dressed-up Christmas house by next Tuesday, December 20, and we’ll have a great spot prize for one lucky reader! Just email competitions@dublingazette.com.

4 FINGAL GAZETTE 15 December 2016

PORTMARNOCK | CLUB WARNS BANK DETAILS MAY HAVE BEEN COMPROMISED

Hack scare exercises gym members’ minds  SYLVIA POWNALL GYM members’ personal information, including their bank account details, may have been accessed by hackers, it has emerged.

Portmarnock Sports and Leisure Centre last week sent out a security notice to members informing them that its database had been compromised.

The PSLC – whose facilities include a fully-fit-

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‘We would advise you to check your bank account for any irregular or unauthorised transactions’

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Excerpt from PSLC email to members

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ted gym and a 25m swimming pool – also advised members to check their bank accounts for any sign of irregularities.

Signed Management & Committee PSLC, the

notice reads: “We wish to notify you that our database has been compromised despite our efforts to keep the data secure.

“As you are aware personal information is held

Portmarnock Sports and Leisure Centre. Picture: Google Maps

on this that includes bank account details if you pay for any of our services and facilities or membership by direct debit.

“Based on this we would advise you to check your bank account for any irregular or unauthorised transactions and contact your bank immediately if necessary to highlight any irregularities.

“Should it be necessary to contact us please call [number supplied]. We have informed the Gar-

dai, and the Data Protection Commissioner of this situation. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.”

Last year, the websites of three Dublin gyms were hacked by an Islamic group. The homepages of Clondalkinleisure.com and similar facilities in Tallaght and Lucan carried a post claiming the site was targeted “Cuz We Want To Show The Reality To Da World”.

A video was also posted

depicting scenes of conflict from the Middle East – with disturbing photos of children who had been wounded or killed.

The gyms are run by South Dublin County Council, and a technical team working on its behalf swiftly resolved the issue.

When contacted by this newspaper, a spokesperson for PSLC told us: “It’s a members’ issue. It’s nothing to do with The Gazette.”

FASTNews

Get your skates on to have a say TWO new skate parks are to be developed by Fingal County Council in Skerries and Balbriggan.

The projects at Skerries Town Park and Mill Pond Park were given planning approval recently and the funds are available to install them. To encourage local input, two design workshops have been organised for skate enthusiasts and anyone else who wants to have their say to put forward their ideas.

The first will take place at Balbriggan Town Hall on Wednesday, January 4 from 10.30am to 3pm, and the second will be held at Skerries Mills Industrial Heritage Centre on Thursday, January 5, again from 10am to 3pm.

For further details on the process, call 01 890 5629, or email fingal. developmentplan@ fingal.ie, using the subject line “Skate Park Consultation”.

Have an input on boundaries

Getting the house ready for Christmas is EZ at Airside MICHELLE Kehoe and Amy Manley, from EZ Living Airside, were delighted to welcome interior designer Sharon Johnson (inset) to the busy store recently, where she met customers and gave them some great tips and advice to spruce up their homes for the festive season. Drawing on the extensive selection of furnishings and Christmas goods on sale at EZ Living, Sharon had the perfect range to draw upon to help young and old alike sprinkle some cosy and comfortable Christmas magic about their homes. Picture: Stephen Fleming

FINGAL Mayor Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) is urging Swords residents to have their say ahead of new constituency boundaries being drawn. In 2007, a large chunk of the town was moved to Dublin West – and it was only after a relentless campaign that Rolestown, Kilsallaghan and St Margaret’s were returned to the Dublin Fingal constituency in 2012.

Now, Cllr Butler is concerned that “another crazy decision” might be on the cards and he wants submissions sent to the boundary commission warning against it.

Submissions can be sent to constituency. commission@housing. gov.ie before Tuesday, January 10, 2017.

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Fingal gets into full festive flight

Marius Orac and his daughter, Lulia

Alice Cody and Molly Powell.

Left: Jamie Mullen.

Pictures: Alilson O’Hanlon

Ava Pollard and Ava O’Connor

The Christmas lights are turned on in Rush

Jacqui Tucker, Joshua Larkin and Vanesssa Larkin

Paul Rickard enjoying the fun with his daughters Carly Aniela Strugray, Laura O’Brien and Sophie Whelan

and Erin

Farragh McElroy with her dad, Pierce

15 December 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 7

Fingal gets into full festive flight

Antoin and Eileen McDermott, Iseult Aoife, Anne, Mick and Eimear Gleeson with Ger Collins

Festive fun in Donabate

McDonnell and Se McDermott

Rita Wall, Mary Brooks, Steph Redmond, Dara Carr and Molly McDonald

Melanie Gerlach, Aine Dilleen, Barry Gorhan, Eve and Ana Bello Dilleen

Christina Fahy, Cathal and Antoinette Fitzgerald, Tara Whitebread, Neil and Hazel, Cian and Sophia Latham

Saoirse and Sean Prendergast

Darragh Fitzgerald. Pictures: STEPHEN FLEMING

Fingallians GAA Christmas family day

Sarah McGrath and Clodagh Behan Amelia and Ruby with Santa

Rhydian and Rhyan

Suzanna

Darragh O’Reilly, Emma O’Neill and Sophia

Keelin McGrath and Cara

Amelia Brain and her

Crawford

Bascow

brother Ed

Aoife Scullion with mum Michelle and dad Michael. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

Keiran Rafferty with his children Aaron, Saoirse and twins Darragh and Senan

Brogan and Tadhg McKenna

8 FINGAL GAZETTE 15 December 2016

CHARITY | SELF-PROCLAIMED ‘KINGDOM CRUSADER’ IS RUNNING TO KERRY

Michael has just two days to run 200 miles  SYLVIA POWNALL

SWORDS businessman Michael McEner y is gearing up for the most gruelling challenge of his life – to run 200 miles in two days for two charities close to his heart.

Michael, who is president of Fingal Rotary Club, will set off from Croke Park on December 22 and arrive in his native Tralee, Co Kerry, around midday on Christmas Eve. Because of his Kerry roots, Michael has dubbed himself ‘The Kingdom Crusader’ as he bids to raise funds and awareness for both the Irish Cancer Society and Cystic Fibrosis Ireland.

Michael has been training hard and has already completed a series of gruelling marathons this year with his wife, Tracy Virgoe, in aid of St Francis Hospice in Raheny and Blanchardstown.

He said: “It’s going to be 200 miles to freedom!

Running became my

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‘As a tribute to all the battlers who have won and lost, this one is for you. It’s 100 miles for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, and 100 miles for the Irish Cancer Society.’

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Swords businessman Michael McEnery

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sanctuary at a time when I was feeling powerless about my mother’s illness.

As a tribute to all the battlers who have won and lost, this one is for you.

“I wanted to signify my time as president of the Rotary Club in Dublin Fingal, so I would like to achieve the ultimate motto for Rotary – ‘Service Above Oneself’.

“This Christmas run will be one of gratitude and helping those who cannot help themselves.

It’s 100 miles for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, and 100 miles for the Irish Cancer Society.”

T he local community are already rallying

around him and Tadg Riordan Motors in Ashbourne has offered the team two courtesy cars for the two-day double ultramarathon.

Eurospar in Applewood, Swords have also offered to supply the team with high-energy refreshments and as much bottled water as they need for the epic journey.

Michael and his wife run Balheary-based landscaping company Virgoe McEnery and they have stuck to a tough schedule over the past few months so he could get in shape for his biggest challenge, to date.

And crossing the finish

Michael McEnery launched his appeal for support at Swords Castle earlier this month. Pictured at the launch are his wife, Tracy Virgoe – a proud Dub with the Dublin flag; Mayor Darragh Butler; Gerard Fay, fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, who has fundraised €125,000 for CF in the past seven years, and Michael himself, with the Kerry flag.

line in his home town of Tralee carrying the Kerry flag won’t be the end of the physical punishment for Michael – just days later he and Tracy will head to Donegal to complete four marathons in

four days.

Michael already has more than 30 marathons under his belt, but this latest challenge will see him and his other half run the equivalent of the length of Ireland in a

matter of days.

To follow Michael’s progress and for details on how to donate, see his Facebook page h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e book.com/groups/ 1805214366433962/.

POLICING | DATA SHOWS 84% INCREASE IN POSSESSION PROSECUTIONS

Call for more gardai as Fingal’s drug crimes soar in 12 months  SYLVIA POWNALL

DRUG-related crime is on the rise in Fingal – and gardai need more resources to tackle the scourge, it’s been claimed.

New data shows an alarming 84% increase in the number of prosecutions for drug possession in the past 12 months, along with a 29% jump in possession for sale or supply.

Worryingly, there has also been a rise in the number of possessions of offensive weapons – though the num-

ber of burglaries have fallen in the 12 months to the end of October 2016, according to provisional Garda statistics presented to the Joint Policing Committee.

Senator Lorraine CliffordLee (FF) said: “These figures prove that gardai need more support and more resources to tackle drug-related crime in our community.

“Sustained cuts to garda resources over the past four years, including the closure of Rush Garda Station, have

impacted on the Force’s ability to effectively carry out their duties.

“The increases in the number of possessions of offensive weapons are very worrying.

Violent crime is a cause of huge concern and the Government needs to support gardai in combating this locally.”

There have been two shootings with suspected gangland or drugs links in Fingal since July of this year.

Christopher Maguire was seriously injured as he sat in

his car in Dun Emer estate in Lusk in July, and in October, Tommy ‘The Zombie’ Savage escaped injury when at least six shots were fired at his car in Swords.

Senator Clifford-Lee said: “We have witnessed distressing incidents of drug and gangland-related crime in Dublin North over recent months.

“These crimes have brought fear among our community and a clear message must be sent by the Government that this brutality will not be toler-

ated,” she said.

According to the figures, yet to be ratified by the Central Statistics Office, burglary has fallen by 18% in Swords and by 26% in the Malahide area.

However, aggravated burglaries are up 200% in Malahide – with three violent incidents reported in the past 12 months compared to just one the previous year.

Another area of concern was domestic abuse, which rose by 14% in Swords and 20% in Malahide.

FASTNews

Undergrowth cut back by roundabout TREES and bushes have been cut back to make an area at the Seatown roundabout in Swords where a young woman was brutally attacked safer.

Fingal County Council made the decision to improve security following the early morning assault on Sunday, November 13.

The attack took place at around 6.45am near the Seatown Road roundabout (Woodie’s) as the woman was making her way to work.

She was assaulted by a lone man.

The victim, aged in her thirties, received minor injuries and managed to get away from her attacker with the help of a passing cyclist.

Swords gardai are investigating but no arrests have yet been made.

Following the work, some local residents complained, saying they felt scenery in the area has been ruined.

All welcome at school market SWORDS secondary school St Finian’s Community College is holding its annual Christmas Market today, Thursday, December 15.

The event is open to the public from 12.30 to 4.30pm in the sports hall where a range of hand-made products by the students will be on offer.

These include candles, photo frames, artwork, flower pots, baked goods and much more.

“Please come and support our many budding entrepreneurs,” said a school spokesperson.

15 December 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 9

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DUBLINGazetteGALLERY |

SANTA CLAUS ARRIVES BY SLEIGH FOR THE OFFICIAL

Amy Redmond and Sinead Byrne

Adela Sedliakopa

Santa is pictured with Loraine Keane and special guest Alex Dickenson and his family Saoirse, Sebastian and Andrew

Senann and Derek Malloy

15 December 2016 GAZETTE 11

SWITCH-ON OF THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AS ADULTS AND CHILDREN ALIKE CELEBRATE

Santa arrives to the joy of all gathered

Alec Dickenson with mum Saoirse Carr. Pictures: Andres Poveda

Temple Street party goes down a treat S

ANTA Claus arrived by sleigh to Temple Street last week to kick off the festivities as adults and children alike celebrated the official switch-on of the Christmas lights. Temple Street ambassador Lorraine Keane and little patient Alex Carr switched on the lights, which mark the beginning of this magical season in the hospital. The lights will help keep this special magic alive for sick children who won’t get to go home this Christmas. Temple Street was transformed

by Tesco Ireland into a wonderland of Christmas cheer, including a Kiddies’ Zone with Santa Sleigh Ride Experience and Fun Factory.

Emma and Chloe Moran

Hugh and Sean O’Dunlaing

Samantha Saulenaite

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DUBLINBUSINESS

Tobermore are in top form to spread festive cheer CHRISTMAS is a special time of year in bringing people together and staff at local paving and walling manufacturing company, Tobermore, have embraced the spirit of the season and have come together to create an exclusive ‘Merryoke’ rendition of Christmas classic, ‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree’ in a bid to spread some festive cheer.

Staff from Tobermore’s head office and the production team from Tobermore’s 50 acre manufacturing

facility in Tobermore village teamed up with Tobermore’s sales force from across NI, ROI, Scotland, England and Wales to film the funfilled festive video at Tobermore HQ, and the result is simply fantastic!

Managing director David Henderson, believes that staff are the backbone to Tobermore and he has implemented a strong culture of team work at the company.

David commented: “Our people are at the heart of the business and whilst it is essential that

we work hard as a team, we believe it’s important to have fun as a team too.

“The video was fantastic in bringing our nationwide staff together and I am very proud to have such a talented, hardworking and highspirited group of people here at Tobermore.”

You can check out Tobermore’s Merryoke video on the Tobermore website (www.tobermore.co.uk/merryoke) and on the company’s social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin.

Give your career a kick start Eve Clowry from Leapordstown is currently Jameson Brand ambassador in Dubai

GRADUATE PROGRAMME | OVER 20 ROLES ON OFFER IRISH Distillers is calling on applicants from Dublin to join the Jameson International Graduate Programme.

Irish Distillers is looking for graduates from Dublin to follow in the footsteps of Conor Timmons and Eve Clowry, who are currently Jameson Brand Ambassadors in Toronto and Dubai respectively.

This year Jameson is looking to recruit over 20 graduates for roles in markets such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, China, Japan and Russia where they will have a unique opportunity to develop fundamental business leadership skills supported

by Irish Distillers’ and Pernod Ricard’s international network.

At present, there are 75 graduates working in 42 global markets as part of the three-year Jameson International Brand Ambassador programme.

Eve Clowry, from Leopardstown, who is currently Jameson Brand ambassador in Dubai, said: “My experience on the Programme has been amazing.

“I would never have thought that I would be living and working in Dubai for an internationally known brand, like Jameson, straight out of college.

“It is incredible to think that as a new graduate, I am playing a role in driving the success of an Irish brand globally and supporting the global Irish

whiskey success story.

Already I have encountered numerous challenges and in dealing with them, honed skills which will stand to me whatever my next career move may be.

Sinead D’Arcy, Jameson International Graduate programme manager said: “Our programme, established 25 years ago, has played a central role in this phenomenal growth story. We’re proud to offer Ireland’s best young graduates an experience like no other. With graduates in over 40 countries all around the world, the sun never sets on the Jameson International Graduate Programme “What starts in Dublin can take you anywhere

from Berlin to Brussels or Bueno Aries to Boston.

Whether you want experience with an emerging market, or in a developed market, our programme is for you.

“The majority of our graduates have a business, marketing or languages background but we are open to graduates from all disciplines.

“Our graduates come from backgrounds as diverse as law, physiotherapy and psychology.

“What we look for are candidates with a wellrounded college and life experience.”

Online applications are now open at www.jamesongraduateprogramme. com and close at 1pm Monday, January 16 2017.

Dalata completes takeover of The DoubleTree IRELAND’S largest hotel Group, Dalata will now manage operations of the iconic Double Tree Hilton Hotel on Burlington Road in Ballsbridge.

The hotel will operate under their Clayton Hotel Brand and will be known as Clayton Hotel Burlington Road. This landmark hotel is still remembered by many as ‘The Burlington’ (or The Burlo).

Speaking about the announcement Pat McCann, CEO of Dalata Hotel Group, said: “We are excited that Clayton Hotel Burlington Road becomes part of our portfolio from today and look forward to fully integrating this fine property to the Dalata family. This hotel will be integral to our efforts to grow and strengthen our Clayton brand” he said.

The hotel comprises 502 recently renovated guestrooms, state of the art meeting and events facilities including a ballroom with a capacity for 1,400 delegates, an executive lounge, 24-hour fitness suite and an exciting ground floor experience.

The hotel’s unique selling point is its size and many will have availed and enjoyed its products and services over the years.

15 December 2016 GAZETTE 13

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

Volunteering approval for a new website

CODY’S LOVE AND ENERGY WILL REALLY MOVE YOU

IT TALLAGHT has joined forces with nine other third level colleges to develop studentvolunteer.ie – an online resource matching students’ interests with volunteering opportunities.

The portal is the first of its kind globally and aims to enhance students’ awareness of their role and responsibility in solving challenges such as homelessness, social exclusion and an ageing population.

IT Tallaght student Suzanne Brennan took time out on Christmas Day last year to help out at Tallaght Adventure World. She revealed: “It was an experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I met so many people who not only shared their life stories with me but also their Christmas Day.” In all, more than 100,000 students and 8,000 registered charities will have access to the new website.

Celebrating the website launch are Suzanne Connolly with Jenessa Scott and Suzanne Brennan, IT Tallaght students and Breffni Gorman, Special Olympics Ireland. Picture: Jason Clarke

COMMUNITY: TERRIFIC THREE-DAY FESTIVAL EVENTS TO USHER IN THE NEW YEAR

Count down to 2017 in town  IAN BEGLEY

DUBLINERS and visitors alike are being encouraged to come in to Dublin city centre over the New Year to embark on a three-day adventure and enjoy the many arts and cultural events taking place as part New Year’s Festival Dublin.

Now in its third year, NYF Dublin will be bigger and better than ever with an amazing programme spanning three days, from December 30 to January 1.

Bringing together some of the country’s best talents, NYF Dublin offers a

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host of arts activities and cultural events guaranteed to engage, entertain and excite for all ages.

They include Re with Tunes in the church on December 30 at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Lingo NYF Poetry Slam and Tongue Fu on the same day at Magistorium on South Anne Street, and free family-friendly events taking place over three days across the city.

Other highlights include unusual walking tours, free Sean Nos dancing workshops, a daytime Seisiun in partnership with TRADFEST, a Dub-

lin screening of In Between Silence in Christchurch Cathedral, a life drawing class turned cabaret extravaganza, as well as many other events.

The festival is an initiative by Failte Ireland, in partnership with Dublin City Council.

Speaking at the official announcement of the festival programme, the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Brendan Carr said: “I am encouraging everyone to come into the city over the New Year and experience some of the amazing events that are taking place over the three-day

festival, including the spectacular Sky Dance at the Custom House, the New Year’s Day concert at St Stephen’s Green, and the many free arts, cultural and pop-up events taking place all over Dublin.”

Tickets priced €20 including booking fee are on sale now from Ticketmaster outlets nationwide and www.ticketmaster.ie, with tickets priced €12 for children and OAPs. For further information on all other NYF Dublin events, see www.NYFDublin.com.

OUR Dog of the Week looking for her #SpecialSomeone* is Cody, a male 18-monthold Belgian Shepherd Malinois, who is looking for an adult-only home where he will be the only pet.

He is specifically looking for an adopter who will bring him to force-free, positive reinforcement training classes.

With the right approach, Cody will be an incredible dog and a wonderful friend and companion.

If you’re looking for a hard-working Brainiac, and you have experience of Malinois or high-drive dogs, then Cody could be the dog for you!

If you can be his #SpecialSomeone*, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website, www. dogstrust.ie.

You can also find them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE.

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DUBLINLIFE

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Get ready for a magical carpet ride to panto land THE wonderful Aladdin is set for a magical box office record run at Dublin’s The Helix Theatre until Sunday, January 22.

The Helix, who extended the show by popular demand last year, are set to have their best panto year yet with some shows already sold out and demand for tickets at an alltime high.

Starring singing sensation Tom Moran and packed full of stunning special effects including a real flying carpet, the panto, set in the magical city of Agrabah, is destined to amaze, amuse, and truly enchant audiences.

The hugely popular and wickedly funny Eoin Cannon plays panto villain Jafaah, with the lovely Danielle Williamson, winner of Irish musical societies best female vocalist award, brightening the stage as Princess Jasmine.

All that talent is combined in Aladdin at The Helix to create a truly magical piece of heartwarming, laugh out loud family entertainment.

Tickets are from €19.50 Bookings: www.thehelix.ie or call 01 700 7000.

A RIP-ROARING CAPER COMES TO THE PAVILION GET ready to spread Christmas cheer by singing loud for all to hear as the modern classic, Elf, comes to the Pavilion Theatre on December 17.

Revel in the childish charm of Will Ferrell as Buddy the elf, a regular-sized man who was raised by elves, after climbing into Santa Claus’s sack from his orphanage cot while just a baby. When Buddy discovers that he’s not quite the authentic elf he believed himself to be; he goes in search of his biological father in the place of his birth - New York City.

A rip-roaring caper with a stellar cast of James Caan, Mary Steenburgen, Ed Asner,

Celine Byrne will perform loved operatic arias along with some seasonal favourites at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre. Picture: Iain White/Fennell Photography

Zooey Deschanel, and Bob Newhart, this is one festive flick that never fails to raise a smile, whether you’re a big kid or a little one.

Tickets for this event are priced from €5 - €7.50. Family admission €20 For more information visit paviliontheatre.ie.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE WITH THE PRICE OF A PINT PIETA House has partnered with Pint Aid for a fundraising campaign this December.

Pint Aid is a crowdfunding movement for charities and causes. Every month they raise funds for a different charity by encouraging the public to drink responsibly. Potential donors are asked to have one less pint per week and donate the value of that pint (€5) to their charity partners, so people will donate €20 for the month.

For the December campaign, Pieta House and Pint Aid are working with some of Ireland’s most recognised corporate brands to support their fundraising target of €12,000.

Every €1,000 raised for Pieta House can provide support

and life-saving therapy for someone experiencing suicidal ideation. The proposed target would equate to 12 lives saved this Christmas.

Pint Aid director; Tony Fernandez commented “Please think of the difference you can make with the price of a pint and help us save 12 lives this Christmas.”

ENJOY A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS WITH BOSCO LAMBERT Puppet Theatre will be bringing Bosco’s Magical Christmas to life at the Pavilion Theatre this festive season on Sunday, December 18.

If you’re a parent, guardian,

auntie, uncle or friend who wants to cash in your nostalgia credit, introduce the little people in your life to the red haired clownish boy, Bosco, who lives in a box, spending his time singing, crafting, and making excursions to places like Dublin Zoo. Popular on Irish TV in the 70s and 80s, he’s now back to send you into a time warp as you revisit a time when jumpers were woolly and colourful, and people wallpapered every available surface in their homes. Expect some of Bosco’s classic songs and stories, as he takes to the stage along with his friends, Hansel and Gretel.

Tickets for this event are €8/ Family €30. For information visit www.paviliontheatre.ie.

SOPRANO CELINE IS HOME FOR CHRISTMAS I N T E R N A T I O N A L LYacclaimed soprano Celine Byrne will perform her Christmas gala concert Celine Byrne

NATIONWIDE SEARCH ON FOR TALENTED STUDENTS BANK of Ireland and Athletics Ireland have joined forces to launch a nationwide search amongst secondary schools to identify talented students.

The programme, which aims to encourage greater participation amongst secondary school students in athletics, will culminate in an athletics Mater Class with 200 top students with advice and tips from Ireland’s top sports psychologists, nutritionists and athletes including former European Indoor Championship gold medallist David Gillick.

To nominate your school to participate in the Athletics Programme see www.boi.com/ athletics.

Aladdin stars singing sensation Tom Moran at The Helix Theatre.

Picture: Jass Foley

Home for Christmas at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre.

Taking place on December 18, Celine will perform popular songs from the world of opera and operetta such as O Mio Babbino Caro, Un bel Di from Madame Butterfly and Villia from The Merry Widow along with festive favourites such as the haunting In The Bleak Mid-Winter, O Holy Night and White Christmas.

She will be joined on stage by her festive orchestra conducted by David Brophy.

Tickets are from €28 - €75 on sale now from www.ticketmaster.ie 0818 719 377 (ROI).

GET SOME HELP HANGING THOSE DECORATIONS TO help celebrate Christmas Age Action has announced that its care and repair volunteers…sorr y…elves in Dublin will help decorate the homes of older people who find it a little difficult to get the house ready for Christmas.

Jennifer Connolly, Age Action Dublin’s head elf, said: “We’re delighted to be able to give a hand to older people who needs just a little bit of help getting themselves ready. Our garda-vetted elves will drop out to your home, at no charge, help you decorate the house and then they’ll even come around again in January to help you tidy everything away.”

Age Action’s Care and Repair volunteers carried out more than 30,000 small DIY jobs or home visits in 2016 to support older people no longer able to do small tasks around the house.

The service is entirely free of charge. If you would like assistance putting up your Christmas decorations or with any other tasks around the home, simply call Age Action’s Care & Repair team on 01-475 6989.

15 December 2016 GAZETTE 15

Off to the races The Leopardstown Christmas Festival offers an exhilarating day out  IAN BEGLEY

IF you’ve got a passion for horse racing, you’re in luck, because at Leopardstown, the winter is host to National Hunt race days that are not to be missed.

National Hunt racing comprises steeplechase, hurdles and point-topoints, which are races held on farmland where young jumping horses start to learn the ropes and prepare for racing.

The day after Christmas, join the horserace-loving public and assemble at Leopardstown to blow the cobwebs away with a week of sports that promises to thrill.

There will be seven Grade 1 races occurring, allowing you to see

some of the world’s finest jockeys and horses do what they do best engage in fierce competition.

Get your pencils and racecards ready for four days of splendid equestrian fun.

Ireland’s most popular St Stephen’s Day outing attracts a huge range of personalities, celebrities and stars, as well as friends, families and of course horse racing fans.

Arrive early and head over to the expert panel, who might just help guide you to a winner.

The Winning Line will take place from 11 a m i n t h e Marquee.

View the

contending horses in the Parade Ring from the premium enclosure area.

Pop into the Christmas Festival Marquee where you can enjoy festive food and drink and soak up the atmosphere.

Witness titanic encounters on the race track and see who will join the Hall of Fame, which features amongst others, Lord Windermere, Bobs Worth, Hurricane Fly, Tidal Bay, Istabraq and Sizing Europe.

A not-to-be-missed traditional highlight of the Irish horse racing calendar (not to mention the social calendar!), the annual Leopardstow n Christmas Festival offers National Hunt racing at its best over four spectacular days.

Running since 1888, the Festival attracts people from all over the world who love an exciting day at the races combined with the magic of Christmas.

There’s plenty to do in addition to watching the races. With its famously seasonal, fun atmosphere, the Festival always attracts celebrities and stars from across the music, sporting, corporate and political worlds, as well as racing fans from near and far.

If you’re still hungry after Christmas dinner, you can head down to the premium enclo sure area to study the horses, complete with the Christmas Festival Marquee. Peruse your race card to see who you fancy, or pick up some hot tips from our Expert panel.

Tickets are from €20 €60. For more information, visit www.leopardstown.com.

GAZETTE

FEATURE

Save on your energy costs this festive season AS the festive season sets in – bringing with it colder days, longer nights and lots of entertaining – it can be extremely easy to let energy costs rise. Bord Gais Energy has some helpful tips for householders to save on energy costs.

1. Lower your thermostat by 1°C and save up to 10% on your heating bill.

2. Use automatic timers to turn off luminous Santas and Christmas lights during the night 3. Consider using LED lights to decorate your home. They last 30-50 times longer than incandescent bulbs and a 50,0000 hour running life.

4. Keep curtains closed at night, even in empty rooms to avoid heat loss through windows.

5. Turn off appliances when not in use and save up to 20%[1] on energy use.

6. Don’t leave Christmas gifts such as tablets or mobile devices on charge for longer than necessary.

7. Don’t be tempted to peek into the oven when cooking the festive roast. Opening the door will allow the heat to escape and it will cost more to reheat the oven.

8. Make sure the Christmas tree and any other decorations aren’t blocking any radiators.

They will absorb a lot of the heat and prevent the radiators from warming up the rest of the house.

9. Be careful when discarding of Christmas wrapping paper in open fires, as paper can get stuck up the chimney and cause a build up of carbon monoxide in the air. Make sure you have a carbon monoxide alarm fitted.

For a longer term energy management solution, consider installing smart energy controls, such as hive active heating, which allows total control of home heating and hot water from a smartphone, laptop or tablet. Users can control their energy whether they are at home, work or on the go and can help customers save you up to €120 per year on their energy bills.

Householders should also ensure their boiler is serviced annually. As well as improved safety, well maintained boilers can save up to €150 a year.

Gary Griffin, service delivery manager at Bord Gais Energy said: “The Christmas holiday season can be an expensive time, with budgets being stretched on all fronts. The last thing consumers need is an unnecessarily high energy bill, and there are lots of things that Irish householders can do to help keep costs down.

“Switching off lights and appliances when not in use, lowering thermostats by 1°C or simply keeping the oven closed while cooking can save a considerable amount on energy bills.”

Bord Gais Energy’s HomeCare team offers a range of oil and gas boiler servicing packages and its service engineers can install carbon monoxide alarms while in your home.

For more information, visit bordgaisenergy. ie/homecare or call 1850 427 434.

15 December 2016 GAZETTE 17

DUBLINLIFE

86% would approve of Ireland as their destination to study SOME 30% of international students say they have experienced some form of racial discrimination in Ireland.

According to a new sur vey conducted by SEDA College, 86% would still recommend Ireland as a study destination despite some experiencing some racism here.

The survey was carried out to obtain insights into why international students choose Ireland as a destination to learn and what they really think about studying and living in Ireland.

T his year the college welcomed pupils from over 40 different

nationalities, including Brazil, Spain, Italy, Panama, Mexico, Argentina, South Korea, Malawi, Japan, Taiwan and South Africa.

When asked what was the most important factor in choosing Ireland as a destination to learn English, the main reason is because they’ve had friends here in the past.

The second most popular reason was due to Ireland’s close proximity to the UK and other European countries.

Asked if they would stay in Ireland if the Irish Government introduced an incentive to students to remain here after their studies, 66% said they

would stay, 24% said they would consider it while 9% said they wouldn’t stay.

36% said they would like to return to live in Ireland at some stage in the future, while 22% have no ambition in returning to Ireland once their studies are complete.

Many of the results portray Ireland in an extremely positive light, with 76% saying they found Irish people to be pleasant, welcoming and friendly.

However 15% say they had encountered some negativity from Irish people while only 8% said they did not feel welcomed at all.

FEATURE

Irish get the lick of love  EMMA NOLAN

SOME 72% of Irish people have said that having a dog completes the family.

We’re a nation truly in love with man’s best friend it seems with 60% of us admitting that we use a silly voice when talking to our dog.

A survey by iReach for PURINA as part of their support for DSPCA’s on-going Pet Adoption Drive has revealed the extent that Irish life is centred on our furry friends.

A massive 84% of all participants consider “having a dog” as a great way to teach children responsibility.

82% also strongly agree or agree that dogs contribute greatly to children’s development and growth while 72% of survey respondents stated that “having a dog completes the family”.

An impressive and surprising amount of people, 97% of all dogowners, admit they talk to their dogs.

Having a hound is a great way to increase a person’s pulling power when it comes to dat-

ing, with the majority of all participants (68%) thinking “that a person with a dog can often be more attractive as a potential date or partner”.

When it comes to selecting a name for a dog, 51% of people chose a human name for their furry friend with 49% preferred using a traditional dog name for their pet.

25% of respondents named their dog after its character (Sparky, Spot etc).

An equal percentage of dog-owners (25%) let their children pick a name. Dog TV and Movie appearances have been an inspiration in selecting a dog’s name for 13% of all survey participants.

A whopping 74% of all dog-owners admit they have images of their dog that they carry around with them and 15% admit that their dog is more welcome in the bed than their partner – interestingly slightly more females (17%) than males (14%) prefer to have their dog sleep in bed with them rather than their partner.

Pictured launching Purina’s support for the DSPCA’s Pet Adoption Drive is Holly Brady with Marlo and Lacey.

PIC: MAXWELLPHOTOGRAPHY.IE

FEATURE

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16 GAZETTE 15 December 2016

Dublin families offered a chance to make history DUBLIN families have been offered the chance to make history through a unique new service called Histories In The Making.

Did any of your ancestors live through or take part when the Four Courts was occupied and then attacked during the Civil War? Maybe one of your relatives fired the artillery guns which turned much of the building to rubble.

Or perhaps you have family who recall the terrible night of May 1941 when Nazi bombs rained down on Dublin, devastating the North Strand, killing 28 people and injuring a further 90.

Histories In The Making aims to make the past a present for future generations with a revolutionary new way of compiling family histories.

It presents people’s family research in a readable and informative way, putting that information into a wider historical context and delivering it in a way that is readable for all the family.

They also deliver that research in more techfriendly way by offering their clients updatable, interactive web pages that can be sent to family members all around the globe.

Most families have an amateur historian – the one person who provides information on the family tree if a milestone celebration or gathering is planned.

However, with the oral tradition dying, and many families now connected digitally around the world, there is a fear that this information will become stagnant or lost.

David Lawlor, of Histories In The Making said: “We want to package the past for families. Very often, people will either have scraps of information about an ancestor or they might have a vast tome of genealogical research that is difficult to read.

“We knit their stories together and package what people have discovered, putting it into a broader historical context. We produce printed posters and brochures, and also offer clients a secure digital file, which is easily updated to the entire family network in real time, allowing the family history to grow organically as time moves on.

“Once you have sent the file to family members, any subsequent additions to it will automatically update on the original file received by relatives.

“I want families’ ancestral stories to be personal and not dry pieces of information that people struggle to relate to,” said David.

Email historiesinthemaking@gmail.com with your own stories.

Maybe somebody in your family recalls when the Nazis bombed Dublin in 1941?

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18 GAZETTE 15 December 2016

DUBLINLIFE

For wearing at your desk where nobody will notice Accessorise Supersoft slippers €15.90

For all your favourite biz-speak, going forward River Island Speech bubble light box €33 For intensive team-building exercises Accessorise Christmas crackers €7.90

For when you’re studying rival products Lidl Dart set €3.99

For when it’s time to take your new corporate shots River Island Insta photo booth €10 For subtle petty cash reminders about staff dietary requirements Accessorise Chocoholic purse €12.90

For networking and brainstorming at the back door Accessorise Rosalie insulated floral cup €9.90

Office-ly good Christmas gifts  EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

For taking your new corporate shots/office Christmas Party blackmail Fujifilm Instax Mini8 camera €85

KRIS Kringles at the office are a fun part of the Christmas ritual, but they can be awkward if you select someone you’ve only ever com-

municated with via email.

So, here are a selection of gifts to give you some inspiration for your Secret Santa, whether they turn out to be your best work buddy or someone you’ve never even had a coffee with!

While you usually can’t go wrong with a bottle of booze, they can come in over budget, so here are a few ideas for your Kris Kindle whether you work in a pub, shop or office (or even in a local newspaper)!

Best of all, most of these are very pocket- and budget-friendly – so, no need to slip IOU notes in the petty cash box – while a couple of pricier products could go down a treat if you’re trying to impress!

15 December 2016 GAZETTE 19

For a clean cup to be able to hand to any office visitors Dealz Teacup €1.50

GAZETTE

GIFT GUIDE For escaping from reality/the office grind Easons Waterford Whispers €16.99

For leaving beside the canteen microwave Easons Lean in 15 – Joe Wicks €20.99

For whoever’s stuck sitting near the office door Aldi Faux-fur stole €9.99

For holding your paper on the way to work Lidl Leather gloves €14.99

For the unsung hero who tidies the canteen Accessorise Superman mug €9.90 For listening to stock market updates or Kanye AppliancesDelivered.ie Akai AM/FM retro radio €29.95

For the office’s Me-Too Hipster Topman Paisley tie €14

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20 GAZETTE 15 December 2016

DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

Volvo gives hints to

There are some impressive big cars on the market loaded up with technology features that we could only have dreamt about a few years ago. Auto driving features are just around the corner and the new Volvo S90 which MICHAEL MORONEY has been driving is just a stage in a process that leading to autonomous driving, but in style.

Land Rover will build the new Discovery model in Slovakia when its new modern factory opens there in 2018

New Discovery for Slovakia build in 201 JAGUAR Land Rover recently announced that it will build its next-generation Land Rover Discovery in Slovakia. This is the first Land Rover model to be chosen for the new modern car factory which is due to open in 2018.

Last year Tata Motors, the owners of Jaguar Land Rover picked Slovakia as the location for the new factory that will have an annual output of up to 300,000 vehicles. The huge factory will be one of Slovakia’s biggest foreign direct investment programmes.

Jaguar Land Rover currently builds the Discovery at its factory in Solihull in central England. The company said that production of the Discovery will continue in the UK after the Slovakia plant comes on line. Jaguar Land Rover has boosted its model range and the company plans to produce 1 million cars per year by 2020 as it has opened new factories in China and Brazil.

Tyre industry takes to Dublin to protest high recycling costs AS TYRE companies took to Dublin streets in protest at the cost of recycling used car and truck tyres, the organisation established to operate a national tyre recycling scheme, Repak ELT has responded to claims of high recycling costs.

Repak ELT CEO Seamus Clancy said: “Repak ELT, in progressing the establishment of this critically important scheme, has consulted with the tyre industry in an effort to ensure all interested parties have the opportunity to put forward their positions and we welcome the fact that some 839 members of the tyre industry, representing 1,045 outlets, have already registered with the scheme.”

“Inevitably there will be differences of opinion as to how this major environmental issue should be managed. To that end Repak ELT is finalising a full submission to Denis Naughten TD, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment and his Department for approval. It will be an effective, cost efficient and equitable scheme which will benefit the entire population of this country. It is expected that the scheme will launch in Quarter 1, 2017. Ultimately, the final shape and charges for the scheme will rest with the Minister and his Department.”

VOLVO has a big statement to make with the new S90 as it’s a car that carries forward a fresh brand design style with a host of new safety features. The S90 looks and feels a big car, with big car comfort and the latest in new technology features.

Drive the S90 around the streets of Dublin and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the number of second looks that you get from Audi, BMW and Mercedes Benz drivers.

The glances ranged from envy to arrogance, but they all took note of Volvo’s new offering because you simply can’t hide that modern Volvo style.

The key feature of the new S90 is the level of driving automation included. Pilot Assist is what Volvo calls its semiautonomous driving feature which is a standard feature on every S90. The system automatically keeps you at a set speed or distance from the vehicle in front, braking and accelerating with the flow of traffic, and gives gentle

steering inputs to keep the car within lane markings at motorway speeds up to 130km/hr.

Volvo claims that Pilot Assist is another step towards fully autonomous driving. You quickly feel confident with the system especially on a longer motorway drive and it makes the drive more relaxing once you get your head around its function.

A series of cameras detect the road markings or any objects including one neatly incorporated into the Volvo logo on the front grille. Unlike previous versions of the system, the system no longer needs to follow another car, and that’s the autonomous part.

Volvo safety heritage is highlighted in the S90 where the latest version of City Safety comes as standard in every S90.

This includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and the worldfirst application of largeanimal detection. This feature helps to avoid or

Volvo S90 D4 SPECIFICATIONS Engine Engine power Engine torque 0 – 100km/hr Braking Distance (100km to 0) Economy

Fuel Tank Capacity CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Main Service Euro NCAP Rating Warranty Entry Price

2.0 litre 190hp 400Nm 8.2 seconds 35 metres

22.7km/litre (4.4/100km or 64mpg) 55 litres 116g/km A4 €200 20,000km/12 months 5 Star 2016 2 years €48,400

The internal layout is understated with Swedish styling, where all of the functions are easy to use and logical in their control, along with big comfort seats

limit the severity of collisions with large animals such as Phoenix Park deer and horses both at night and during the day.

There are two engine versions of the S90 model on the market and I drove the entry level engine version that’s powered

by a 2.0 litre turbo-diesel engine. The engine has more Volvo input than in the past and that means smoother performance coupled with a quiet and comfortable drive.

The engine power is rated at 200bhp with an impressive level of torque that’s a match for the competition. This is a big car and it’s a heavy one so the acceleration performance is marginally behind some of the impressive competition.

At 8.2 seconds for a 0 to 100km/hr acceleration race, the S90 is no slouch, while still only very marginally slower relative to the BMW or Mercedes Benz equivalent.

Despite that Volvo has worked some magic because the car comes with an impressive official economy rating of 22.7km/litre (4.4/100km or 64mpg) that can almost be reached with strategic driving. To get a big car like the S90 to come in with such an impressive economy figure is amazing; just don’t

Fiat adds saloon version to Tipo offering FIAT in Ireland will launch a saloon version of the recently introduced Tipo mid-range car for the early New Year market. The new saloon model completes the expanded Fiat Tipo range with saloon version car prices starting from just €16,745.

Fiat will be offering a full range, hatchback, saloon and estate version of the Tipo in their effort to get back lost market share in this important segment of the car market. Fiat claims to offer exceptional roominess, high specification, robust quality and outstanding efficiency, not to mention an affordable price across all models in the updated range.

Fiat claims that the Tipo saloon can accommodate three six-feet-plus adult passengers in the rear due to its 4.53m length, 1.79m width and 1.49m tall dimensions. Its boot capacity is one of the best in this class

The new Fiat Tipo saloon

with a volume of 520 litres. Loads of up to 1.8m in length can be carried courtesy of its flipand-fold 60/40 split rear seats that provide a completely flat load floor.

Like the hatchback versions, the saloon model will be offered in three trim levels, Pop, Easy and Lounge. The entry Pop trim level is equipped with air conditioning, remote central

locking, front and rear electric windows, bodycoloured door mirrors with electric adjustment, six airbags, chrome door handles, split rear seats, a front seat centre arm rest, full size spare wheel, USB and Bluetooth connectivity with steering wheel remote controls.

There are four engine options, two petrol engines, a 1.4-litre 16v producing 95bhp and 127Nm and the 1.6-litre e-TorQ engine producing 110bhp and 152Nm and two turbo diesel engines – a 1.3-litre MultiJet II producing 95bhp and 200Nm and a 1.6-litre MultiJet II with an output of 120bhp and 320Nm. Fiat claims that the entry-level 1.4-litre 95bhp version is capable of accelerating from a standstill to 100km/h in 11.5 seconds. Fiat is quoting an official combined cycle fuel economy figure is 17.5km/litre (5.7 l/100km) and CO2 emissions are 133g/km.

15 December 2016 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

autonomy in new S90

MOTORING

Great deals on offer at SEAT SEAT dealer Brady’s Dublin has announced a host of sensational offers as part of SEAT’s outstanding 171 campaign, just in time for Christmas.

Until December 31st, motorists are invited to visit the dealership located at Old Navan Road, Castleknock to view the latest range from SEAT and make fantastic savings.

Customers can avail of 0% finance on selected Ibiza and Leon models, 1.9%

The new Volvo S90 is a very impressive luxury end saloon car that combines comfort with traditional Volvo safety features now supported by safety technology that brings the car closer to autonomous driving. Prices start from €48,400 before delivery charges.

finance available on the SEAT Ibiza Sport and SEAT Leon SE Select AND a staggering 2.9% finance

expect to repeat it in preChristmas Dublin City stop start driving.

The new S90 comes with a low CO2 rating of just 116g/km and that means low running costs in terms of road tax, just €200 annually. This figure also gives an indication about the car’s economy performance and it lives up to some of its economy

claims. While the 55 litre capacity fuel tank is probably smaller than most of the competition, meaning more stops.

Volvo’s most logical gearbox option is the 8 speed automatic version and it was a good match for the high torque diesel engine. There are three driving modes available EC0, Comfort and

Dynamic where you will quickly notice the difference in driving performance. For city driving the ECO option is compulsory while for longer motor way r uns, the Comfort setting gives a more relaxing drive.

The car’s start stop system is smooth and comforting; you won’t need to think much about it

as you are enveloped in a bright leather comfort zone. The layout of the dash and controls are typically understated, while being very functional. I liked the starting switch which is more tactile than the start button used by other car brands; it’s just that you feel that you are engaging with the car’s system more.

Within minutes I was comfortable in the Volvo S90; seat adjustment was logical and so too was setting up the mobile phone Bluetooth connection. The heating adjustment is logical and easy to use with a large centre mounted nineinch touch screen.

Cars like the S90 can take that extra length in

their stride; it adds to the big car image. The wheelbase is stretched slightly longer than most of the competition to give the S90 a new comfort zone.

Entr y prices start at €48,400, but adding the extra comfort and style features will quickly bring you over the €60,000 limit and then it becomes a more expensive option.

available on the all new SEAT Ateca, SEAT’s first ever SUV model.

In addition to the attractive finance offers available at Brady’s Dublin, SEAT have introduced a scrappage offer of up to €4,000 on the Leon range and up to €2,500 on the Ibiza range.

A Busy Mercedes Benz year ahead

The launch of SEAT’s 171 finance offers comes at a particularly exciting time for SEAT as the brand has welcomed new, high

MERCEDES-BENZ in Ireland is planning a busy 171 with a

profile dealers to the

host of new cars on the way for Dublin drivers. The new

network, all featur-

S-Class Cabriolet is scheduled to arrive in the January-

ing the marques new

March period. This new ‘dream car’ will bring the joys of

look showrooms and

open-top motoring to the premier S-Class range.

forecourt signage.

Mercedes Benz will be adding an E-Class Coupé early

In addition, SEAT

in 2017, followed in mid-year by an E-Class Cabriolet. Also

has just launched the

arriving in that period will be a new E-Class All-Terrain

all new SEAT Ateca

model and a revamped GLA entry-level SUV.

in the Irish market which is already

As 2017 progresses, it is expected that MercedesBenz will advance developments already in the pipeline,

performing well and

one being their entry into electric-powered motoring

generating strong

discussed at the recent Paris Motor Show. It is expected also that autumn will see the arrival of some top end models with two especially exotic AMG models due, the GTR and GTC.

The Mercedes-Benz AMG GTR is one of the exotic introductions planned for 2017

interest.

For more information see www.bradys dublin.ie/

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DUBLINLIFE 1

TECH IN REVIEW

Apple’s chief executive, Tim Cook, joined the Government in rejecting criticisms of the tech giant’s tax arrangements with the Republic of Ireland

Stories worth taking a bite at next year, too  SHANE DILLON

AS ALWAYS, the year brought plenty of tech changes and some fascinating news stories, both good and bad. Here are just a few of the tech trends, stories and developments from 2016. In no particular order ...

W hile there were lots of IT sector gains in Ireland, particularly with research and pharma firms, the likes of Dell and Intel each announced job cuts.

The giants’ job losses here echo the wider malaise in the global computing market – on the whole, consumer sales have slowed right down, with high-end tablets also underperforming, although phablets are doing okay.

While some tech may be faltering, this year saw several impressive virtual reality headsets hit the market, typically for use with consumer games and media browsing content, but also offering some burgeoning business, training and development applications.

Several VR headsets wowed consumers in 2016, and look set to refine their tech in coming years. Their success is virtually certain ...

It’s fair to say that one person dominated the Tweetosphere this year: The Donald.

America’s incoming president, Donald Trump, commanded headlines around the world all year round, seemingly running much of his election campaign through random Tweets.

Whatever else can be said about the man, his musings as America’s president in the coming years should be ... memorable.

The continuing trend for consumers to swap bricksand-mortar for clicks-and-order

saw HMV finally close its remaining stores in the Republic – again – with the retailer retreating to an online-only presence in the Republic.

The severing of the chain’s physical presence in Dublin marks a blow for the city’s gaming and media consumers.

However, the biggest Irish tech story of the year was, of course, Apple’s tax arrangements with Ireland, with the Government garnering a lot of uncomfortable headlines all around the world.

Apple has been completely and fully compliant with all of our laws, in every way, as both they and the Government have pointed out to all and sundry.

However, this didn’t impress the European Commission’s mandarins, who concluded in late summer that Ireland granted undue tax benefits to Apple of up to €13bn – a charge which both the Government and Apple reject.

2017 will almost certainly see similar stories and complex issues pushed back into the spotlight once again.

Donald Trump’s often bizarre Tweets were a mainstay of 2016 on the global stage

1

Uncharted 4 A spectacular gaming highlight, and a technical wonder

2

Firewatch Presented the most thoughtful narrative of 2016

YEAR IN REVIEW: A TOP-TEN LIST OF THIS YEAR’S MOST

2016’s best WHILE every year presents plenty of great (and terrible) games, 2016 stood out as a bumper year for gamers.

While mobile gaming continued to quietly make an awful, awful lot of money from people who’d never call themselves a gamer (and yet who still play the likes of Candy Crush Saga on the Luas), console gaming – the most readily identifiable form of gaming for many people – enjoyed a stellar year.

As such, here’s my list of 2016’s best games. Some were critically acclaimed, others were runaway financial successes, and others were quietly fantastic – but they’re all worthy of the list. In order...

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com

1) Unchar ted 4: A Thief’s End (PS4, Cert 16).

Even in a year with some superb titles, Uncharted 4 stood head and shoulders above pretty much everything else, setting one benchmark after another in everything from character development and scripting through to level design and environmental detail, and all kinds of technical bells and whistles, too.

Developer Naughty Dog pulled out all the

stops – and then some – to deliver a true tour de force in gaming, setting storytelling and gameplay high points that haven’t been surpassed since.

2) Firewatch (PS4/ XBO, Cert 16). Another high ranker on many critics’ lists, Firewatch was a narrative-heavy game that greatly impressed..

The tale of a 1980s everyman working for a summer in a national park doesn’t sound like much on paper, but it had a witty, engaging and very human tale to spin, wrapped up with mellow graphics.

3) Pokemon GO (IOS, Android, Cert 9+). Even those of you living under rocks know about Pokemon GO, so I don’t need to say much about Nin-

tendo’s foray into mobile gaming. The global craze provided yet another smash hit for the gaming giant, as millions took to the world’s streets in search of rare Pokemon.

4) Virginia (PS4/XBO/ PC, Cert 12). Without a single word of dialogue or narrative to its brief length, this quirky game still wowed, providing a masterclass in storytelling.

Like a curious mashup of Twin Peaks and The X-Files, its basic characters and simplistic art style, still managed to present a complex tale with a range of human emotion – with its classy soundtrack also impressing.

5) Inside (PS4/XBO/ PC, Cert 18). There were a hundred different ways

15 December 2016 GAZETTE 23

2

GAZETTE

GAMING 5

3

6

4

3

Pokemon GO Caused near mass hysteria around the world

4

Virginia Had no dialogue, but was a masterclass of storytelling

ACCLAIMED OR SUCCESSFUL TITLES

7

5 Inside Gothic touches created a compelling side-scrolling platformer 6 Overwatch Fired a rocket of inclusive fun into the Boys-Own shooting genre, delivering a payload of upbeat mayhem

8

games ...

to accidentally guide this game’s little character to his doom in this, but exploring this near-monochrome sidescrolling platformer was a treat.

With humourous touches as dark as its palette, and a slowly revealed narrative, Inside impressed with its pure game design as much as its stark visuals.

6) Overwatch (PS4/ XBO/PC, Cert 12). To the surprise of many, Overwatch dominated what I’ll call ‘shooter’ games for much of the year, with a strong focus on the fun, rather than the gun.

Popular with everyone from hardcore gamers to casual players to LGBT gaymers and many more, Overwatch’s colourful graphics, zany characters, quirky powers and other atypical traits saw it reclaim territory from more traditionally grim shooter games. Speaking of which ...

7) Battlefield 1 (PS4/ XBO/PC, Cert 18). Settings don’t come much grimmer than World War One’s l a n d scapes –

Congratulations, Nathan Drake – your game, Uncharted 4, is officially The Gazette’s Game of the Year 2016! Well done!

yet Battlefield 1’s take on The Great War outgunned rival shooters.

Dumping the techheavy nonsense that has smothered rival shooters, B1’s purist back-to-basics approach, coupled with very impressive graphics and levels, saw it hit the target with gamers.

8) The Witness (PS4/ XBO/PC, Cer t 3+) .

Released at the start of the year, The Witness could be played by anyone – anyone from Mensa, perhaps, as its beautifuly realised island was full of real headscratcher puzzles to unlock as you explored.

Something of a cult hit, its laidback p a c e

9

10

7 Battlefield 1 Stripped-back gameplay subtly added depth to its chaotic World War One setting 8 The Witness Beautiful island setting and lush graphics hid head-scratcher puzzles galore 9 Dishonored 2 Late 2016 release wowed with singular and superb art style and open-ended gameplay 10 Hitman Its initially derided but soon acclaimed episodic release proved naysayers wrong

and variety of puzzles give it a timeless appeal – though I’m probably not the only person who resorted to YouTube walkthroughs to solve some of its trickier bits.

9) Dishonored 2 (PS4/ X B O / P C , C e r t 18 ) .

Although a very late

2016 release – last week’s review, you’ll recall – Dishonored 2 greatly impressed with one of the most singularly realised games of the year.

Its wonderful art direction, intricately designed levels and the ability to complete it as peacefully/

violently as you wish give it lots of replayability.

10) Hitman (PS4/XBO/ PC, Cert 18). The latest in the long-running franchise (starring everyone’s favourite bald assassin) was initially derided when its developer decided to release the game serially,

releasing a new level every month or so.

Despite this unusual approach, and a number of flaws, gamers loved its vast, elabourate levels that were packed full of silly, inventive or practical ways to eliminate a shifty group of very bad people.

24 FINGAL GAZETTE 15 December 2016

GAZETTE

DUBLINLIFE fast TRAVEL Destination moon!

The sky’s (not) the limit for an ambitious new destination  IAN BEGLEY

WITHIN 10 years, holidaymakers could be literally flying to the moon – that’s according to a private firm that wants to set up lunar travel.

Moon Express is hopeful that their ambitious endeavour will occur in the near future, thanks to a ruling by the US government that has made the company the first private business to be given the green light to land on the moon.

America’s Federal Aviation Administration gave the go-ahead late this year, and now Moon Express is planning its first trip to the moon next year, with the aim of sending human holidaymakers by 2026.

Moon Express cofounder and chairman Naveen Jain has said tickets for the trip will cost around $10,000 (£9,200).

He said: “The sky is not the limit for Moon Express – it is the launchpad. This breakthrough ruling is another giant leap for humanity.

“Space travel is our only path forward to ensure our survival and create a limitless future for our children. In the immediate future, we envision bringing precious resources, metals and moon rocks back to Earth.”

TRAVEL

CINQUE TERRE: STEP OVER TO THIS WALKING ROUTE THROUGH A STUNNING AREA

Italian adventure offers so much ‘amore’ of all you need to feel relaxed I RAN away to explore the world at the tender age of 18, and even though I’ve yet to come across a country that owns my heart like Ireland does, I always feel at home when I’m in Italy.

Italy is a country that I adore. She has it all: coast, mountains, skiing, sunbathing, great food, art, history, culture, showstopping architecture and the Italians know how to party!

So, at just a two-hour flight away from Dublin, I’m never one to refuse the opportunity to get my backside to Italy.

Lately, I’ve become a fan of the walking holiday; after my pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago earlier this year I researched other famous walking routes across Europe and came across Cinque Terre – a UNESCO world heritage site on the north-east coast of Italy, between Genoa and Pisa.

Cinque Terre literally translates to ‘five lands’ and that’s exactly what it is. The rugged coastline draws a u-shape with five darling towns dotted along the edge, looking as though one little shake and they’d topple over in to the Ligurian Sea. Arriving in Monterosso, I got my first view of the sea and took a few moments to deeply inhale the fresh sea air and absorb the views.

The streets were cobblestoned, buildings painted bright pastel colours with smiling locals, and even

 GERALDINE O’CALLAGHAN

Reality TV star

in November the sun was glorious.

Enjoying a coffee while sitting at a boardwalk out on the seaside, I felt a million miles away from the stress of work. Life moves at a different pace in Italy – and even a step slower in Cinque Terre.

Taking the local train from Monterosso – which is the most northerly of the five towns to Riomaggiore – I arrived to walk through a tunnel along the Via dell’Amore (The Way of Love).

Beautiful You have to give it to the Italians – they love an aul’ bit of romance. It’s one of the most beautiful coastal walks in the world, so they named it aptly, don’t you think?

After a long day travelling, I was a little disheartened to realise that Riomaggiore is embedded into the hills and my hotel was – yes, you’ve guessed it – up at the very top.

Anyway, soldiering on up, I got myself to the top.

The climb – awful as it was – was so worth it. The views from my hotel balcony were so perfect it was

like staring at a postcard.

Up and out early the next morning, I had plans of walking the full boardwalk from Riomaggiore through Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and finish off having lunch in Monterosso before getting the local train back to my hotel in Riomaggiore.

It didn’t quite go according to plan ... the stretch of the Via dell’Amore boardwalk between Riomaggiore and Manarola is closed off for repair work, so it was up and over the hills with me.

The hills are steep enough and the climb is physically challenging, but every time you look over your shoulder, the views get better and better and the sense of achievement gets stronger and stronger.

The climb down from the peak into Manarola is steep. Although all five towns look alike, they each have their own distinct character. Manarola has tiny winding streets – if you stretch out your arms, you can reach the houses on both sides!

Although there is a small beach in Monterosso, Cinque Terre isn’t a beach holiday. It’s purely all about the walking routes and views and wine – definitely about the wine.

All the locals grow grapes in their gardens, so every shop, restaurant and hotel sell wines produced with their very own hands.

There’s something very beautiful about that.

There’s a lot to be said for the walking holiday versus a beach or partying holiday (or maybe it’s just that I’m getting old).

The thing about a walking holiday is when you get home you feel completely fresh and revitalised.

It’s almost like being out in the fresh air all

The Cinque Terre (‘five lands) walking route in northeastern Italy offers lots of stunning sights, with charming towns cascading down the ancient hillsides to the gentle waters of the Ligurian Sea

day scrubs out the brain of clutter and stress and every step you take is a step further from your troubles. Something that gives you that result is certainly worth trying.

My holiday was a week long, booked through

OneFootABroad.com who supplied me with all maps and walking notes and advice on which walk to choose on certain days.

They also gave me an emergency helpline number. I flew in to Milan with Ryanair.

15 December 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

CINEMA ReelReviews

SULLY

Hanks for an okay biopic DIRECTOR Clint Eastwood delivers a solid biopic with Sully (Cert 12A, 95 mins). Telling of the famous incident about a plane crash landing safely on a Noo Yawk river, Tom Hanks stars as the titular captain of the troubled flight, with ‘Sully’ hailed as a hero – at least, until a number of investigators started to question his actions. Still, it’s a likeable film about the interesting incident.

Rebel fighter Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones) finds herself deep in Star Wars territory: in a desperate fight against the evil Empire, facing suicidal odds

ROGUE ONE: EXPERTLY SPUN TALE IS A FINE PREQUEL TO CLASSIC STAR WARS LORE

MOANA

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

FANTASTIC BEASTS As the title says ...

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

Makes a Force-ful impact IT’S not until those first words appear across the screen, in blue and black, that its hits you – you are, in fact, watching a second Star Wars movie in as many years.

How time has flown since 2015’s The Force Awakens. Some condemned Disney’s eagerness to release another Star Wars movie so soon (and each consecutive year, from the looks of things), anticipating a rush that would damage the franchise after the critical success of JJ Abram’s Episode VII. When word of production troubles and reshoots hit the Internet, many fans’ worst fears appeared to be confirmed. Thankfully, any worries about Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (Cert 12A, 133 mins) Rogue One: A Star Wars Story are entirely unwarranted.

Director Gareth Edwards has produced a spectacular, satisfying

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

and genuinely moving Star Wars experience – its existence justified with a style and tone that is refreshingly different, yet so completely and perfectly Star Wars.

Rogue One’s eagerness to separate itself from the main series is rigidly clear from the very beginning – for the first time, a Star Wars movie starts proceedings without the signature text ‘crawl’, or John Williams’ beloved theme music.

Furthermore, the events of the opening sequence are far darker than any the series has previously offered.

Prior to the events of A New Hope, the newly formed Galactic Empire is working on a space sta-

tion capable of destroying entire planets – even the most casual viewer should recognise the infamous Death Star.

In response, a group of unlikely heroes, led by the young Jyn Orso (Felicity Jones), work together to steal the plans to the superweapon and deliver them to the Rebel Alliance.

Almost any Star Wars fan will have a rough idea going in to Rogue One of how events are going to transpire – it is a prequel, after all. Consequently, Rogue One has an inherent, inevitable sense of tragedy.

Accordingly, the story’s power lies in its characters and how they develop, rather than the narrative itself.

When we first meet her, Jyn is a different kind of Star Wars hero: brooding, broken and apathetic, she’s a far cry from the wide-eyed optimism of Luke, Finn, Rey or – dare I say it – the young Ana-

As usual, it’s a bad day to be a Rebel against the Empire in the Star Wars galaxy

kin Skywalker.

Those central themes throughout the franchise – sacrifice and hope – take a while to manifest in this story’s hero, but her arc, when it develops, feels completely natural.

The rest of the courageous team is played with undeniably Star War-sy heartfelt enthusiasm by Diego Luna, Riz Ahmed, Donnie Yen and Jiang Wen, with Alan Tudyk as occasional comic relief, droid K-2SO. Ben Mendelsohn is delightfully nasty as Orson Krennic, the director of the Death Star programme and Rogue One’s

key villain.

The cast of characters packs a number of wonderful, fan-targeted surprises, both big and small.

Visually, Rogue One is a special effects masterpiece and throws plenty of nods to the series’ past and future. The spot-on 1970s Sci-Fi aesthetic extends from sets and vehicles to haircuts and facial hair. Watching a real x-wing dogfight, complete with cockpit conversations and call signs, is a wonderful, nostalgic thrill.

To point out Rogue One’s later narrative missteps would be to spoil

the film entirely. However, these issues are more so inevitabilities, given the overall storyline, and they are rendered almost insignificant by the film’s s p e c t a c u l a r, a c t i o n packed climax.

While maintaining an indeterminate, yet thoroughly franchise-perfect sensation, Rogue One sets itself apart from instalments gone by.

Accordingly, in a postForce Awakens world of entertainment, Rogue One gives us a genuine reason to eagerly anticipate a new Star Wars movie every year.

Verdict: 9/10

26 FINGAL GAZETTE 15 December 2016

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GAZETTE

28 FINGAL GAZETTE 15 December 2016

SPORT

FastSport LEINSTER SET UP TITLE DECIDER: LEINSTER’S women rugby team set up an interprovincial championship decider with Munster next Saturday in Donnybrook at 2.30pm following their impressive 46-0 win over Ulster.

They did so with two tries from number eight Paul Fitzpatrick and winger Katie Fitzhenry while Alisa Hughes, Hannah Tyrrell and Niamh Byrne also crossed for tries against the northern province.

Jenny Murphy augmented the win with 11 points with the boot.

Murphy started the scoring in the 19th minute from a penalty when scrum-half Hughes was taken out at a ruck.

Leinster built the lead with accurate passing from deep for full-back Kim Flood to put Fitzhenry over on the left. Hughes’s try helped to make it 17-0 at the break.

And they duly scored a bonus point when Fitzhenry scored her second try in the 50th minute before Fitzpatrick touched down off the back of a line-out maul.

HOCKEY: UCD AND EY LEAGUE LEADERS PLAY OUT HIGH OCTANE DRAW AT BELFIELD

Students halt Hermes’ run of victories

 STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@dublingazette.com

UCD ended HermesMonkstown’s perfect record in the women’s EY Hockey League but the visitors to Belfield last Sunday remain four points clear at the head of the table at the halfway stage.

The meeting of the division’s top two sides proved a cracker, flow-

ing from end to end, with both sides having their chance to claim all three points.

Fortunes swung dramatically from end to end with both teams having their moments but a draw was probably a fair result.

The first half was helterskelter with big chances at either end right from the start.

Hermes-Monkstown’s first corner saw Clodagh

Cassin save well from Chloe Watkins while UCD fluffed a three-onone counter-attack.

Suzie Kelly then swept a Lena Tice corner shot off the line before the visitors took the lead on the first quarter hooter.

Watkins’s disguised pass was smart, picking out Rosie Carrigan who slid onto the ball for 1-0.

UCD, though, had a string of corners of their own

Railway Union’s Kate McKenna. Picture: Adrian Boehm

UCD’s Lena Tice was a star performer. Picture: Adrian Boehm

with Katie Mullan playing a key role along with the immaculate Tice.

The sweeper created the opening for the equaliser when she beat a couple of players before laying off to Gillian Pinder.

Her cracking shot was saved by Liz Murphy but only as far as Sorcha Clarke who popped home from close range.

It remained 1-1 through the third quarter in spite of a concerted HermesMonkstow n spell of attacking with Anna O’Flanagan and Nikki Evans going close.

UCD had the best of the early stages of the final quarter but were almost caught at the death when Evans won a corner. O’Flanagan worked

an opening to shoot but Mullan charged it down, meaning it was honours even.

In the chasing pack, Railway Union picked off a significant 3-1 victory over Cork Harlequins at Farmer’s Cross to move back into the top five of the division.

The visitors were the dominant force in the opening stages in terms of territory and possession, winning a corner inside a minute as Emma Smyth made her presence felt.

The Dubliners went into the lead in the 29th minute from a penalty corner with Anna May Whelan getting the final touch from a penalty corner. The lead didn’t last long however.

Yvonne O’Byrne broke through a few tackles before shooting on her reverse into the bottom left corner to make it 1-1 at the break.

But final quarter goals from Sinead Dooley and Kate McKenna saw Railway pull clear as the moved back into the top half of the table.

Loreto strengthened their position in fourth place as the McDermott sisters Freya and Hannah helped score a 2-0 win over Belfast Harlequins.

Pembroke finally got off the mark in the women’s EY Hockey League as they drew 2-2 at fellow strugglers Ulster Elks in Jordanstown, keeping it very tight at the bottom of the table.

Oldtown’s ASK racing to launch stars of the future  sport@dublingazette.com

ASKRacing have launched big plans for 2016

ASK RACING have announced big plans for 2017, joining what they call “the largest and most competitive field to date” in the newly rebranded Pirelli Supercar Championship, and hoping to use the position to promote young Irish drivers.

Based in Oldtown in the north county, ASK is one of Ireland’s most successful racing teams.

Much of the Supercar Championship takes place in the UK, at iconic circuits such as Brands

Hatch – added to the championship for the coming season – but ASK will link in with the more local Ginetta offering, which takes place in part at Kildare’s popular Mondello Park circuit.

The team have partnered with the Junior Ireland competition for the coming season, and will offer the top driver in the championship a race in the Pirelli Supercar Championship at the final round in Brands Hatch as a reward for their effort.

The top three drivers in the championship will get a test

drive for ASK following its conclusion next year, with the Ginetta winner put forward for the Brands Hatch event, a potentially decisive part of the Supercar calendar.

The team hope that the initiative will give drivers between the age of 14 and 17 the chance to step up to supercar racing, and give an opportunity for a young Irish driver to launch a career.

As well as running events and offering driving experiences, ASK also provide race support and build track-ready cars to sell on to drivers, includ-

ing cars aimed at competing in the supercar championship for other drivers.

They also train at Mondello Park, using specialised data collection to help racing drivers or potential racing drivers identify areas for improvement.

The team have asked any 14-17 year olds interested in competing in the Ginetta Junior Ireland Championship to contact the team, via their website w w w.askracing.com, where contact information for Class Principal Ann Stevens is available.

15 December 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

Capturing the mood of a Season of Sundays Sportsfile supremo Ray McManus reflects on what makes the annual pictorial book from his company on the GAA season gone by such an enduring companion to the year  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

RAY MCMANUS is celebrating 20 years of what he jokingly calls “Sportsfile’s Business Card,” A Season Of Sundays which came out last month The annual photo book looks at the world of GAA through the photographer’s lens, a pictorial view of the highs and lows of 2016 from some of the best in the game.

The book was borne from inauspicious beginnings. An anonymous journalist made a comment that appeared to undervalue McManus’s work back in the mid-90s.

“I remember a journalist – who has passed away now – calling me up and asking me if I have any photos lying around. I told him I don’t have pho-

tos ‘lying around’. I like to think I’m a bit better, a bit more professional than that!” McManus told GazetteSport. “That gave me the idea, and it’s really become a calling card for Sportsfile.”

Enda Kenny agrees, saying at the launch of the book – which is already close to selling out in what would be a first ahead of Christmas – that the team’s work “inevitably transports back to a magic and memorable sporting moment.”

The annual release has taken the same format since it first appeared: a 168-page hardback presented in chronological order, exploring the GAA’s various different sports and competitionss, but also their settings and the people involved in them.

McManus has a pen-

chant for the unusual in a sports photos. “You never quite know what you’re going to find,” he tells us.

“A few things have changed over the years – the haircuts and the clothing, but most of it hasn’t changed that much.

I like going to the more quaint grounds, places like Aughrim in Wicklow, and Ennis in Clare. This year I turned up in Aughrim and they were renovating a stand, so the little tea hut had moved around the back. Little things like that can make for the best photos.”

This year, those photos feature Dublin’s fourth consecutive national league title, and second consecutive All-Ireland, as well as Tipperary’s hurling win, action from St Patrick’s Day’s All-Ireland club finals – includ-

Not even the travelling legion of Dubs in Nowlan Park can suck Diarmuid Connolly’s penalty into the net as Laois’s Graham Brody saves. Picture: Ray McManus/Sportsfile

ing Ballyboden St Enda’s footballing glory – and a story that’s stretched well beyond the lifespan of even this long-running journal, Mayo and the now 66-year curse.

“It’s about capturing atmosphere,” McManus explains. “It’s not really designed to follow the narrative of a season – though being in date order, and

about at Sportsfile. There are some incredible photographers generally, as good as anywhere.

“I think getting the image is a mix of luck, skill and anticipation, when it comes to sport. In some, like boxing, you almost have to know a boxer is going to throw a punch before he knows he will.

“You’ve got to concen-

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

‘It’s about the most representative images, whether it’s a cup of tea in the crowd or a trophy being lifted.’

- Sportsfile’s Ray McManus --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

with the scores and key moments more heavily featured, you certainly can follow Dublin orTipperary through the year.

“But it’s not all about reporting anyone’s progress. It’s about the most representative images, whether that’s a cup of tea in the crowd or a trophy being lifted.

“You don’t really go to the game as a fan because you’re looking at it all through a viewfinder. It’s very much about focusing on the image.

“In sports photography, that can mean capturing something that exists only for a split second. If you miss if, it’s gone, and you just have to move on.”

And McManus says the sports photography scene in Ireland is up there with the best in the world.

“I’m not just talking

trate, as – no disrespect to wedding photographers or those shooting promotional images in St Stephen’s Green – this has no replays, and you can forget about whatever you miss.

You’ll never catch everything, but it’s like they say about golf, the more you practise, the luckier you get.”

A Season Of Sundays – which also features photo annotations by GAA Head of Communications Alan Milton – puts the best of those “lucky” moments in a book.

It’s available from major bookshops now, and via the books section of the Sportsfile website at www. sportsfile.com. ** McManus wishes to thank sponsor Carroll’s of Tullamore, who he says “keep the book affordable!”

FASTSport

Liam O’Riain, Cllr Darragh Butler and Paul Reid at the announcement. Picture: Kevin McFeely

Newbridge House to host Dublin half marathon NEWBRIDGE House and Farm in Donabate will host the 2017 Dublin Half Marathon which will take place on Sunday, September 24 with up to 10,000 runners taking part in the race around the peninsula.

The formal announcement was made by Dublin Marathon race director, Jim Aughney, and a special reception in County Hall, Swords, on Monday evening to mark the occasion with Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Darragh Butler, Fingal County Council Chief Executive Paul Reid, the Chairman of Dublin Marathon, Liam Ó Riain, members of the Council and representatives of local athletics clubs in attendance The event, which is the biggest half marathon run in Ireland, had previously been staged in the Phoenix Park but the number of participants had to be capped at 8,000.

The move to Fingal will allow race organisers to cater for the growing demand from athletes at home and abroad to participate in the race.

“The half marathon has huge potential to grow and, with the commitment of FingalCounty Council, we believe it will rapidly reach over 10,000 participants. Fingal offers a unique venue in Newbridge House and also some of the most scenic areas for our athletes,” Aughney said at the launch. The actual route will be announced in due course. Cllr Butler added that the event would be a major boost to the area.

“An event like this will certainly help to promote Fingal and the prospect of 10,000 runners together with their families and supporters coming to the area will certainly generate extra revenue for local businesses.

“I’ve taken part in all the Fingal10ks and I’m not sure if I’ll be up for the half marathon but I might give it a go,” he said.

At the reception a special presentation of cheques for €3,000 was made by the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon Race Series to representatives of Metro St Brigid’s, Clonliffe Harriers and Fingallians Athletic Club in appreciation of each club providing stewards and volunteers for the events. Entries for the Dublin Half Marathon and the Fingal 10K, which takes place on Sunday, July 23, in Swords, are now being taken at www. sseairtricitydublinmarathon.ie

GAZETTE

30 FINGAL GAZETTE 15 December 2016

SPORT

FASTSport

BASKETBALL: SWORDS BEAT REIGNING NATIONAL CUP CHAMPIONS

Corballis to receive big boost from Carr Golf CORBALLIS golf club – along with Elmgreen GC – is set to receive a big boost with the announcement that Carr Golf will invest €1 million investment into dramatically improving both facilities.

Carr Golf are Ireland’s fastest growing golf club management and maintenance specialists and their ambitious plans will help to reinvigorate two of Dublin’s most well-known golf clubs.

The initial phase will focus on improving the presentation of both courses and this is already underway with the recent purchase of state-ofthe-art machinery worth over €500,000.

The new machinery will assist a 25-strong team of expert greenkeepers who will be working tirelessly over the coming weeks and months to elevate the standards of both courses.

Initial reaction has been extremely positive from members and guests, with many commenting that they have already noticed improvements to the quality of the courses, which has greatly enhanced their playing experience.

Plans are also in place to renovate the off course facilities at Corballis and Elmgreen with a further investment of more than €500,000 being committed to improving the clubhouses, pro shops, locker rooms, driving range and restaurant, with work commencing in early 2017.

Carr Golf will manage all aspects of each club’s operations and, during the tender process, they engaged Goodform to carry out extensive research of members and visitors at the clubs.

The feedback has helped shape their investment plans and prioritise those areas needing immediate improvement.

Corballis Links Golf Club, located in Donabate is a hidden jewel in Irish links courses and was recently added to the Irish Gems section of www.top100golfcourses.co.uk.

The land on which it is situated was first used to play golf in 1906 and over the years has attracted golfers from all over the world, including Bernhard Langer, who used to play there prior to the Irish Open.

Speaking about the plans for the golf courses, Marty Carr, CEO at Carr Golf said: “We see this as a really exciting time for Elmgreen and Corballis Golf Clubs and hope that members and guests enjoy this new journey with us as we strive to dramatically improve their experience and present a far superior golf course, facility and service.”

Swords Thunder coach Dave Baker and Isaac Westbrooks have seen their side go on a superb run of form

Thunder strike down Temple MEN’S BASKETBALL  KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

GRIFFITH Swords Thunder capped off an excellent week for the team with an 88-79 point win away to UCD Marian in the men’s super league last weekend.

It was their third win in just six days after victory over Tralee the weekend before and knocking an unbeaten Templeogue out of the Hula Hoops cup inbetween.

Thunder could have been forgiven had they put in an under par performance having come out on top of an energy-

sapping thriller with Templeogue just two days earlier. But they somehow managed to pull out another great performance to remain second and stretch their lead over their third place opponents to three points.

The game was a tight affair throughout with Thunder holding just a one point lead going into the half-time break.

Either side looked capable of winning it as the score was tied going into the fourth quarter; however, a dominant final 10 minutes saw the visitors record their ninth victory from 10 league games.

It capped an excellent

DUNNE DEAL Skerries’ Maria takes on major Indian event SKERRIES Maria Dunne has travelled to take part in the 100th Usha All India Ladies Amateur Golf Championship which runs until next Sunday.

The tournament will be played over 36 holes stroke play, 18 holes qualifying each day, and the top 32 players will qualify for the open match play event.

Players have travelled from a far, with competitors from Ireland, Scotland, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Chinese Taipei, South Africa, Malaysia, Thailand, Bangladesh and India all taking part.

week and the Swords manager Dave Baker particularly pleased with the win over Templeogue who beat them in the final a year ago.

“Absolutely delighted to get redemption for last year,” said Baker. “A couple of us have watched last year’s final a bunch of times so we knew what to expect from Templeogue.

“In league form, they are the best team in the country so we knew we were there or thereabouts and just had to keep at it.

The first quarter was some of the best basketball I’ve seen all season. Both teams went tit for tat and it was fantastic to watch.

“Mark [Keenan] is a great coach and I knew he would have them drilled well. I think the moment probably got to us at stages of the game until the fourth quarter where we showed we actually do play. I think our defence in the fourth was the difference in the end.”

Thunder seem to be hitting top form going into what could be an important Christmas period for them and victory in their next few games could set them up for a successful season. However, Baker, who recently won November coach of the month, isn’t counting his chickens just yet.

“I’m so proud of the club and the players, especially for the guys who were here last year because we had to go through watching Templeogue lift it last year.

But look, nothing is won right now because we still have at least two more teams to go through in the cup.”

Thunder will meet Moycullen in the semifinals come January but their attentions will be focused squarely on their next league fixture this weekend which sees them travel to Inchicore to take on Templeogue once again in their fight for top spot.

15 December 2016 FINGAL GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

CLUB NOTICEBOARD

DUB STARS

Fins and Maur’s fly the Fingal flag for showcase

FINGALLIANS

FINGALLIANS’ Emer Ni Eafa, pictured, and Niamh Ward along with St Maur’s Eadaoin McGuinness and Olivia Leonard were all named in the DubStars starting side for their annual battle with the Dublin ladies football senior team.

It follows their superb performances during the club championships. They will in the annual showcase game on January 8 in DCU, St Clare’s with a 1.30pm throw-in.

AFL3: Hard luck to our footballers who

fancy calendars. They are available in

narrowly missed out on promotion after

the club shop and bar at €10 each.

Tuesday’s replay.

Christmas party will take place in the

we have vacancies for minor football and

club bar from 8pm on Saturday, Decem-

hurling managers and, also, a position as

ber 17.

the third football manager.

FOOTBALL: MALAHIDE CLUB HOLD OFF LUCAN CHALLENGE

full paid playing members. The winter

ing to club secretary – john.mcgee@osg.

hours are Monday to Friday, 6-9pm and

ie.

Saturday and Sunday 2-6pm.

Fitzgibbon Cup: Congratulations to

Blood Bank: The mobile service will

Donagh Williams on him been named on

visit the club on Wednesday, December

the Trinity College Fitzgibbon Cup panel

21 and Thursday, December 22.

for 2017. closed until the end of January.

Christmas Draw: Tickets for the draw

Fingallians extends deepest sympa-

mentors night party on December 17.

beale road on the death of Sean. Ar dheis

S T S Y LV E S T E R ’ S claimed the minor football league Division 2 title to cap a superb season, closing out the campaign with a an excellent four-point win over Lucan Sarsfields at O’Toole Park on Sunday morning.

The majority of the damage was done in the first half with Alex Wright and Luke Troy making the key inroads to build an imposing 2-5 to 0-5 lead at the break.

Lucan fought back with a series of scores in the second half to get back within a couple of points of the Broomfield outfit with two goals in succession.

In a hard-hitting game, a late solo goal from substitute Sean Daly gave the Malahide side a fivepoint cushion which ultimately got them over the line.

There were a couple of early moments as an even later point blank save from goalkeeper Sean O’Connor meant that Lucan were never able to get back into range.

He impressed through-

out the tie while his fullback Philip Ryan also made a number of telling interventions in a hardhitting game.

The half-backs of Jack Whelan, Aaron Lynch and Eamon McLoughlin kept things moving while Troy and Daniel Brennan put the wheels in motion further up the pitch.

Wright, meanwhile, laid on the killer pass for Daly’s clinching goal at the death to hand Syl’s a memorable way to sign off on a productive 2016.

Syl’s topped section B of their regular season with 11 wins out of 14, leading St Vincent’s with

a vastly superior points difference.

Lucan did likewise in Section A with 12 wins from 13 games and they made it through to the final of the competition when Vincent’s afforded them a walkover.

Syl’s had a far tougher semi-final encounter, battling their way through to the final with a 2-16 to 1-15 win over Castleknock.

The Malahide men had also produced some fine performances in the A championship, just missing out on the semi-final places on points difference in the group stages.

De go raibh a hAnam dilis.

THE club bingo takes place this and

ner took place in the clubhouse on Sat-

every Friday upstairs in Peacocks at

urday.

8.30pm. Imagine what you could with

We are lucky in St Finian’s that we

this week’s jackpot of €1,500 to pay for

live beside the airport as Santa landed

your Christmas bills.

on time at the nursery and academy Christmas party.

€1,500 and the numbers drawn were 4,

Thanks also to Robert Kennedy,

8, 11 and 15. There was no winner. Lucky

our U-12 boys coach, who was DJ and

dip winners of €25 were Aisling McAr-

supplied the sound equipment for the

dle, Paddy and Des, David Collins, Karen

party.

O’Mahony. Next week’s jackpot will be

3-9 2-8

week is €2,548. thy to the Kelly family from the Rath-

Club lotto - the club lotto jackpot was

St Sylvester’s Lucan Sarsfields  sport@dublingazette.com

Callan, who won €3,773. The jackpot this

€5 each. The draw will take place at the

ST FINIAN’S

MFL DIVISION 2 FINAL

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 6, 7, 17, 19 and 33. There was one winner, Carol

are now on sale at the club bar. Entry

Club Calendar 2017: Check out our new

Syl’s seal MFL2 deal with late Daly show

Gym Hours: The gym is available to all

All applications should be sent in writ-

Pitch Closed: Our main pitch is now

St Sylvester’s celebrate their MFL Division 2 success

Mentors Night: Our annual mentors

New managerial positions: Currently,

€1,600.

Please contact Grace Murray 087

Robert and his band, The Brief, are playing in Peacocks next Saturday so all support welcome.

2659400 if you can spare an hour to

The Sky Handling nursery and acade-

cover the monthly lotto envelopes

my will resume on Saturday, January 14

stand which will be in SuperValu Boro-

at 10am and 11.30am respectively after

imhe this Saturday, December 17 from

the Christmas break.

11am to 6pm.

Congratulations to John Walsh and

The annual club bag packing will be

James Quigley who won the second

taking place in SuperValu Boroimhe on

hurling team player of the year awards.

Saturday, December 17 from 11am to 6pm and Sunday from 2pm to 6pm.

Congratulations to Ciara Buchanan on being selected for the Dublin Junior

All support for this vital fundraising

All Star LGFA team for 2016 and also

event will be welcome and appreciated.

for making the Dublin Premier camogie

The club has been notified by the

team.

DAA that Nevinstown pitch is not avail-

There is a limited number of Christ-

able for training or matches during the

mas jumpers available in the club shop.

month of December. Please adhere to

Selling for €25 each - special offer.

this request.

Congratulations to club footballer

The club is pleased to announce that

and hurler Shane Murphy who mar-

the nursery and academy has a new

ried Catriona Lyng last weekend and

sponsor Sky Handling Partner.

best wishes to club hurler Jason Mer-

A presentation of equipment with Lorraine Daly from Sky Handling Part-

riman who will be marrying Bernadette McGuinness Thursday, December 15.

FINGAL RAVENS IT WAS a great honour for our Fingal

Ward.

Ravens player Darren Daly to captain

We are selling Christmas draw tickets.

his province in the Railway Cup. Speedy

Great prizes including a prize of a year’s

recovery to Mattie Lamb after surgery

membership to Fingal Ravens.

for his injury.

We send condolences to the extended family on the recent passing of Olga

Contact Audrey Daly (087 9753782), Bernadette Kavanagh (087 9397642) or any committee member.

32 FINGAL GAZETTE 15 December 2016