Dublin Gazette: Fingal Edition

DublinGazette JANUARY 23-29, 2020

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THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL AREA

D15 crime sees locals ‘scared going to bed’ SYLVIA POWNALL

GAELIC GAMES: Dublin’s men and women all set for league. SEE P31 & 32

Fingal Edition

AN ALARMING spike in burglaries and violent crime has left communities in west Dublin “scared going to bed at night” according to local representatives.

More than 100 people attended a public meeting in Castleknock last week, where they heard that the number of nightly break-ins left some residents living in fear.

Households are installing additional secu-

rity measures including CCTV cameras and dead locks to deter what gardai suspect is an organised crime gang targeting the area.

Neighbourhood Watch organiser Jim Jackman told Dublin Gazette: “I was stunned at the level of robberies. People don’t know what to do.”

He said while WhatsApp groups worked well, the fact that there is one garda station serving a population of 175,000 people – compared to five in Cork – was the real

problem.

Fianna Fail TD Jack Chambers said: “Gardai patrolling housing estates shows communities have seen anything but law and order.”

He added: “People are living in fear because of the increase in crime. Additional high-visibility patrols and plain clothes gardai have now been put in place in the areas affected.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Model railway reopens

IT’S full steam ahead for the Casino Model Railway Museum in Malahide, which has finally opened its doors following a €4m restoration project.

The opening means that rail enthusiasts can finally see the Fry Model Railway collection back in action, with the incredible model collection – 40 years in the making – now back on public display after almost a decade of looking for a new home.

SEE PAGE 4

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 23 January 2020

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01 60 10 240

HOUSING: COUPLE BEMOAN HOME’S PETS STANCE

‘We’re discriminated against with dog rule’  SYLVIA POWNALL

spownall@dublingazette.com

A COUPLE who rent an apartment from a housing association in West Dublin have described its ‘no pets’ policy as a form of discrimination.

Philip and Grainne McCabe are long-term tenants living at Laburnum Square in Pelletstown, Ashtown – an affordable housing scheme run by Cluid.

But they say strict rules around keeping pets are making their lives a misery as both are out of work on health

Grainne and Philip McCabe

grounds, and would love a small dog for company.

Philip told Dublin Gazette: “We do feel we’ve been discriminated against. We have spoken to the housing

officer on numerous occasions about this.

“We are nearly 13 years living here, and the annoying thing is that it’s a very strict policy, but Cluid do not enforce

it. We know of several people who keep pets.

“But we don’t want to do it against the rules.

We would hate to bring an animal in here as a pet and then have to give them up. That would not be fair on them.”

Philip said he and his wife, both 53, would like to keep a small dog, and would have no trouble looking after it or cleaning up after it.

He added: “Our doctor says it would be good for our health, and that’s why I think it’s very unfair.

“I myself suffer from stress and depression at times.

Benefits “A pet has been proven to combat this type of thing. It’s company to get you out and about.

There’s a lot of benefits, but Cluid don’t seem to see this.

“I was even willing to pay extra money for the privilege, but they will not agree to it.

“It’s a form of discrimination; a little pet is not going to cause any problem where I live.

“I’m a responsible human being, and I think it’s terrible.”

A spokesman for Cluid told Dublin Gazette that while they accept it is an “emotionally difficult” situation, the rule of no pets is common practice, and they have a duty to enforce the tenancy agreement.

He added: “We take a p p ro p r i a te a c t i o n s where complaints of unauthorised pets are received. We have a duty to treat all our residents equally.

“Some applicants have to give up their family pet in order to accept an apartment, and it is unfair to new tenants if others in the same scheme have unauthorised pets.”

FASTNews

Council urged to fix potholes at car park LABOUR party representative Corina Johnston is calling on Fingal County Council to urgently address the safety concerns of residents who use the car park (above) in the sports grounds at Ballymastone, Donabate.

Ms Johnston said: “The condition of the car park has deteriorated in recent months due to heavy rain.

The surface is very poor and completely uneven, with large potholes making conditions hazardous for cars, cyclists and pedestrians.

“A number of cars have been damaged in recent weeks, and the conditions are such that this is now a safety issue.

“There are also a lot of children accessing the car park. To date, thankfully, no-one has been injured.”

She has called for urgent remedial works along with works on the access road to the complex, which she said is “also in a deplorable condition”.

Cliff walk High Court closed for to rule on soil survey waste plan THE cliff walk between Donabate and Portrane has been closed, pending an immediate survey, in the wake of recent storms which have rendered it unsafe.

Fingal County Council sealed off the popular walking route after three pinch points of soil erosion were identified, which the local authority says are at risk of collapse.

The council carried out the inspection after Cllr Adrian Henchy (FF) passed on the concerns of residents.

Negotiations will now take place with the landowner with a view to creating a safer walking route.

Cllr Henchy said: “While I am extremely disappointed by this development, obviously health and safety has to take priority over everything else.

“I have called on FCC to enter immediate negotiations with the landowner in order to create safer access, and to allow our stunning cliff walk to reopen as soon as possible.”

RESIDENTS opposed to a €500 million wastewater treatment plant at Clonshaugh have begun their legal challenge to the Irish Water project.

The High Court application is being made in the name of Sabrina Kemper Joyce, one of the Portmarnock objectors who warn that pumping wastewater into the Irish Sea off Ireland’s Eye will pose a serious risk to the Dublin Bay biosphere.

Local residents say that in granting permission An Bord Pleanala (ABP) failed to take proper account of the EU’s Birds and Habitats Directives.

The plan involves 13km of underground orbital sewer from Blanchardstown to the Clonshaugh plant, and then a 12km outfall pipeline to bring the treated wastewater through the Baldoyle Estuary and out to sea.

Papers have been lodged to the High Court and an application for Judicial Review of ABP’s decision is listed for today (Thursday, January 23).

23 January 2020 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

LUSK LAD SINGS OUT ON HOWTH PIER

FASTNews

Diverse Fingal initiatives Approval as €9,500 set to are nominated for awards help Fingal Shed groups TEN initiatives in Fingal have been nominated across eight categories for the LAMA Community and Council Awards.

The shortlisted projects are: Donabate Portrane Community Centre CLG (best business working with the community); restoration of the Casino building Malahide (best heritage); The Quiet Space (best disability access and inclusion); Donabate Community & Leisure Centre (best community sports); Fingal Community Facilities Network (best connected council); B Tropical Butterfly House, Malahide (best ecological); Malahide Demesne, Newbridge Demesne, Tyrellstown Park (best public park); Community Car Age-Friendly Transport Service (best community-based initiative). A Croke Park ceremony on February 15 will reveal the winners.

Riaghan Boardman didn’t let the freezing cold or isolated location stop him from doing his best to help care for animals badly injured by the Australian bush fires

Big-hearted boy busker raises €500 to support injured Aussie koala bears SYLVIA POWNALL

A SCHOOLBOY from Lusk has raised €500 for a koala hospital in Australia after footage of the devastation wreaked by wildfires ‘Down Under’ moved him to tears.

Music-mad Riaghan Boardman (12) collected the cash busking on Howth pier, and transferred the money to the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital in New South Wales.

His proud mum Lisa told Dublin Gazette: “He was looking online at the fires and was nearly crying at the images of koalas caught up in it all.

“He made a sign letting people know he was raising money for them, and spent two hours out busking in the freezing cold.

“It is typical of the type of thoughtful young lad he is; we are very proud of him.

“His older sister has an

anxiety disorder and he looks after her.

“I didn’t realise how bad the Australia situation was until he showed me.

We have four dogs here, so we all love animals.

“He was just delighted to be able to do something to help.”

Riaghan (above), who lists Lewis Capaldi and Ed Sheeran among his favourite artists, is learning to play the guitar and has just bought his first amp with money he raised busking at Christmas.

His parents, Lisa and

Patrick, and his two older sisters are fully behind his dream – to make it big as a singer songwriter – and he performed a solo on the 2019 Late Late Toy Show and was a quarter finalist in Junior Eurovision.

Lisa, who lives at The Commons in Lusk, said: “All he wants to do is sing.

“He goes up to Howth busking the odd Sunday, and hopes to progress to Grafton Street and eventually make a career of it.”

Classmates at St Joseph’s Secondary School in Rush are also fully behind R i a g h a n w h o, despite his tender age, already has more than 2,000 followers on Instagram (@riaghansings).

The severe bush fires in Australia, which are the worst on record, have so far killed 29 people and ravaged tens of millions of acres of land, posing a serious threat to wildlife.

FUNDING of €9,520 has been approved for Men’s and Women’s Sheds in Fingal.

News of the grants was welcomed by Senator James Reilly (FG), who said sheds in Swords, Rush, Skerries, Balbriggan, Portmarnock, Donabate, Portrane and Ballyboughal would benefit.

The Fingal Vintage Group at Turvey also got funding.

Senator Reilly said: “I am delighted to see that Women’s Sheds have also received funding from the Government for the first time. I hope the number of Women’s Sheds continues to grow in coming years.

“Men’s and Women’s sheds have become a vital element in the fabric of our communities, and have done so much to tackle social isolation.”

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 23 January 2020

HERITAGE: €4M RESTORATION PROGRAMME RESTORES BELOVED LANDMARK

Full steam ahead as Casino Model Railway Museum has finally reopened in Malahide SYLVIA POWNALL

THE Malahide community rejoiced on Wednesday as the Casino Model Railway Museum finally opened its doors, following a €4m restoration project.

Fingal County Council oversaw works on the heritage building at the entrance to the town, which is the only thatched cottage Orne of its type in the north county.

It has been carefully conserved, restored and extended to become a modern visitor attraction that is now the permanent home of the Fry Model

Railway collection, which was previously exhibited at Malahide Castle.

The iconic collection, which includes more than 300 model trains built by engineer and railway enthusiast Cyril Fry, is back on public display after almost a decade.

Hailed as a national treasure, it was created over a 40-year period from the 1920s and includes a miniature replica of every piece of rolling stock that ever ran on a rail track in Ireland during that time.

The €4m scheme was funded through the council’s capital programme

Model maker David Lindfield checks some trackside detail. Picture: Shane O’Neill, SON Photographic

and a generous donation of €1.5m from the late Michael Gaffney, of Malahide.

As someone who grew

up in Malahide, Mayor of Fingal Cllr Eoghan O’Brien (FF) said it was a momentous moment for him to reopen the heritage attraction.

He said: “The redevelopment of the Casino has been one of the most eagerly-anticipated projects in the Malahide area, so it fills me with pride to be able to stand here today to open this wonderful heritage property.

“It goes without say-

ing that the Casino Model Railway Museum will be a spectacular amenity for local and visitors, both young and old, to enjoy for years to come.

“I would like to pay tribute to the Malahide Group, comprising GV Wright, Colette Smith, Michael Howard, Matt Ryan Jnr, Nora Owen, Matt McNulty and Alfie O’Dowd, who worked tirelessly over the years to ensure this project got to this point today.”

County architect Fionnuala May revealed that the brief was to marry the historic original cottage with a “complementary new building”.

Six people will be employed at the new museum, which is open to the public from this Thursday, January 23.

All visitor information can be found on the official website at https://www. modelrailwaymuseum. ie/.

CRIME

Public meeting highlights D15 fears CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“However, we need more long-term thinking to properly address these issues, rather than responding with these short-term emergency measures.

“What is needed is a structured approach and to see the number of gardai increased to 16,000.

“Gardai are facing major difficulties trying to police while understaffed, underresourced and under pressure.”

Earlier this month, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar wrote to residents in Castleknock informing them that he had voiced his concerns to gardai over the number of break-ins.

In one aggravated burglary, a woman had a screwdriver held to her throat. Detectives believe the same gang may be behind most of the burglaries.

The public meeting in the Castlleknock Hotel heard complaints from several people who said they could not get through to Blanchardstown Garda Station by phone.

‘Firefighting’ Aontu’s Edward McManus, who organised the meeting, said: “People are genuinely afraid. There is a very real fear that gardai are just ‘firefighting’, as the point was made that the population of the area is expected to reach nearly 200,000 people within the next 10 years.

“Blanchardstown [Garda Station] is unable to cope as it is. People are complaining that they can’t get through on the phone, and if they go in person, often there are 10 to 12 members of the public waiting for ages while one garda attempts to deal with them.

“This station is simply not able to cope. There is one dedicated garda car to serve the whole area on Sundays. This can’t be allowed to continue.”

23 January 2020 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 23 January 2020

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

FASTNews All welcome at a Tidy Town fun table quiz

BLANCHARDSTOWN Tidy Towns group will be hosting a table quiz in The Greyhound Inn, 15 Main Street, Blanchardstown, on February 12 at 8pm, with all welcome to attend.

The event will raise much needed funds for the purchase of gardening equipment, flowers for the village and other necessary equipment.

Re-established in 2018, Blachardstown TT continues its important work in enriching the village as a place to live, work and thrive.

Expert Driver: Tadgh O’Brien takes it all in stride at the ‘Barney Greene Tractor Run’

Firefighters help deliver Blanch babies

Sam Ellwood receiving the winning tractor award on behalf of Jordan Flanagan with Barney Greene

Barney leading the run

Terrific tractors help drive along funding for St Francis Hospice T

Tommy Finnegan and Peter Farrell

HE community of Man O’War kept the Christmas spirit flowing into 2020 as they pulled together to raise funds for St. Francis Hospice with the 13th Annual ‘Barney Greene Tractor Run’ a

resounding success.

Young and Old gathered in large numbers for a special day, which saw support from all sectors of the community, including the Gardaí who were out in force, as a variety

of tractors navigated the country roads of North County Dublin for the event.

Barney Greene presented a cheque for €9525 to Gene Murphy of St Francis Hospice following the event. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

FIREFIGHTERS and paramedics based in Blanchardstown helped with the delivery of a baby last Friday night – their third in the space of 24 hours.

The little boy, who was born in the rear of an ambulance, was the second prehospital baby delivery for Blanchardstown crews in as many days after they assisted in the birth of twins – a boy and a girl – the previous night.

Tweeting its congratulations to the families, Dublin Fire Brigade posted: “Happy birthday to boy and girl twins born overnight prehospital with the assistance of firefighters/paramedics and advanced paramedics from Blanchardstown Fire Station and NAS.”

Oz’some idea

by Clonsilla Primary pupils

Barney Greene presenting the cheque of €9525 to St Francis Hospice representative Gene Murphy

Barney with his daughter Maria

ST. PHILIP’S SNS Sixth Class pupils Oliwia and Ava have written to the Dublin Gazette to tell us about an awesome Jumble & Cake Sale they are running in the school on Thursday January 30 at 11am, to rause funds in aid of those affected by the Australian Bushfires.

The funds will go to two charities, one of which is for the animals who have suffered and lost their homes, and the other is to help people who have suffered.

23 January 2020 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

HERITAGE: TALES FROM THE SCALDWOOD QUICKLY SELLS OUT

New history journal proves a best seller BLANCHARDSTOWN-Castleknock History Society has launched its first annual journal – Tales from the Great Scaldwood – and it’s already a best seller.

The book capturing local history features 12 stories written by nine contributors, after the society invited those who had stories and knowledge of the area to impart, and who had no previous work published, to have a go at writing.

At the launch, editor Noreen Maher encouraged anyone who might have stories to share to contact the society for its next publication, and proudly revealed that the society took delivery of their initial order of 200 books from the printers in December – but they had sold out before the launch, meaning another 150 had to be ordered.

SuperValu Blanchardstown granted

Karen Power co-opted to Greens’ Balbriggan seat

permission to introduce the book to the public in their store immediately after Christmas.

History Society volunteers manned the stand on the first Friday after Christmas, and ran out of books the next day – 200 books sold in two days.

Huge oak forest The journal gets its title from The Great Scaldwood, which was a huge native oak forest that covered an area stretching from the Phoenix Park to the Moor of Meath, south to north, and the Liffey to the Great North Rd, west to east.

For further information, email bchsjournal19@gmail.com, or phone Noreen Maher, journal editor, at 086 886 5601 during daytime hours.

Members of the Blanchardstown-Castleknock History Society present a copy of Tales from the Great Scaldwood to the SuperValu manager

‘Landmark’ victory blocks 1,000 homes SYLVIA POWNALL

THE community council in Donabate and Portrane has won a “landmark” planning appeal blocking permission for works associated with a 1,000-unit housing site.

Aledo Donabate Ltd had been granted permission

by Fingal County Council for a development at Corballis to build roads and services as part of a €400 million project.

The local authority gave the green light for road works, access roads, water services, a nature park, and the construction of open spaces ahead of the housing scheme.

But Donabate Portrane Community Council questioned the granting of permission for the works, claiming the county council acted contrary to its powers.

Its appeal to An Bord Pleanala arguing that the proposed development would cause serious damage to the Malahide and Rogerstown Special Areas of Conservation, and the

protected bird species that reside there, was upheld.

The sites are protected under European regulations.

The planning board held that it could not be satisfied that construction would not adversely impact on the integrity of the protected Special Areas of Conservation.

A spokesperson for Donabate Portrane Community Council said: “For years, the environmental despoliation of Donabate has been allowed to continue unchecked.

“This is a landmark victory both for the community and for the environment.”

An Bord Pleanala noted that there are significant numbers of wintering birds using the lands impacted.

Plans to construct a nature park on the lands could disturb and displace Light-Bellied Brent Geese and other birds, the planning board said.

In its decision, An Bord Pleanala said it “cannot be satisfied, beyond reasonable scientific doubt, that

the proposed development, either individually or in combination with other plans and projects, would not adversely affect the integrity of these European sites in view of the sites’ conservation objectives”.

The lands concerned have been zoned for 1,000 houses, which could generate sales of €400 million.

The works which formed part of the planning application are to facilitate the residential development.

The Community Council

FASTNews

has labelled as “a disgrace” the fact that the Council has allowed permission when the scheme falls short on amenities.

In its current guise, it will provide just 27% of the public open space it is required to, and 17% of the playground facilities is it supposed to deliver.

DPCC called for the cumulative impact of the entire project, which will involve housing, a creche, and retail units, to be properly assessed.

THE first full 2020 meeting of FCC began with the co-opting of Karen Power to the Green Party seat for the Balbriggan area.

Cllr Power, who lives in Barnageeragh Cove in Skerries with her husband and their two young children, officially began her work following Joe O’Brien’s historic by-election win.

The communications professional said: “I have been extensively involved in a number of projects at community level already. “[This includes] having led on the campaign that secured a much-needed €8 million upgrade to our public

Deputy Joe O’Brien and Cllr Karen Power

water infrastructure, securing road signs and dog fouling bins, and working with the council on the creation of the multi-use games area on the Balbriggan Road.

“I look forward to working on even more initiatives to ensure quality community life as a public representative.”

She listed her main areas of focus as sustainable development, the ‘Our Balbriggan’ rejuvenation plan, transport infrastructure and school spaces.

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 23 January 2020

23 January 2020 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 23 January 2020

GENERAL ELECTION 2020

CANDIDATES ADDRESS SOME OF

Before you cast your vote, consider where the candidates stand DUBLIN GAZETTE reached out to the confirmed candidates who will be campaigning in General Election 2020.

We asked them all the same set of questions, to help inform you about where they stand on just some of the main issues of the day.

Here is what the general election candidates had to say* – the following answers were from those who had responded by our print deadline.

QUESTION 1: HEALTH How would you address the chronic problems that are prevalent in the Health Service?

QUESTION 4: ENVIRONMENT What is your stance on Climate Change? How green/accessible is your campaign?

QUESTION 2: HOUSING How would you address the chronic problems in the housing sector?

QUESTION 5: TRANSPORT Do you think Public Transport in your area is sufficient? What changes might you make?

QUESTION 3: EDUCATION What ways would you address education issues in your area at a Government level?

SENATOR LORRAINE CLIFFORD LEE, FIANNA FAIL, PIC A

Q1 MANY people have told me of their concerns about the chronic situation we’re facing in the health service.

Fianna Fail, in government, will prioritise tackling overcrowding in A&Es. We will work to reduce waiting lists and waiting times. No health service can function without consultants and more nurses.

Q2 Dublin Fingal has one of the youngest and [fastest] growing populations in Ireland, and you can see the strain on peo-

B

C

D

QUESTION 6: YOUR MESSAGE Why do you think people should vote for you?

(*Some answers may have been edited to account for space, as necessary.)

DUBLIN FINGAL

A

ple, young families and the services in trying to cope with this.

Fianna Fail has pledged to give first-time buyers €1 for every €3 they save for a mortgage.

Q3 As a country, we have always taken pride in our education system. Our philosophy is ‘An Ireland for all’. That’s not a slogan – it’s a commitment.

The situation in Fingal has reached a crisis point.

We need to plan properly according to the demands of the demographics of the area to keep maintaining the standards in schools.

Q4 I think we’ve all seen the strength of the impact that a 15-year old girl has had on the campaign to protect the climate, and it empowered people.

It does come up on the

doorstep, and I hope to work with the next government.

Q5 In Dublin Fingal, the commuter line is under severe strain because Fingal is the youngest and fastest-growing population in the country.

More capacity is what is needed to cater for the growing numbers of commuters.

Q6 The hard-working people of Dublin Fingal need a TD who will go out and fight for them.

What I heard in the byelection is that they want someone who cares about them as well, and that’s me.

DEPUTY ALAN FARRELL, FINE GAEL, PIC B

Q1 I WILL support initiatives to deliver an extra

F

2,600 hospital beds, 80 additional primary care centres, three new hospitals and ensure affordability in healthcare.

We must agree a new contract with consultants to tackle waiting lists for public patients.

Q2 25,000 new homes will be constructed in 2020, and we are on track to deliver 12,000 new social homes next year and every subsequent year.

The delivery of social and affordable homes is the foremost priority.

By increasing supply, we can work to reduce rents to a sustainable level and support first-time buyers.

Q3 Capacity is a serious issue in our schools and we must continue to

G

provide additional school places in the north county, along with increased investment to provide more SNAs. At all levels, education must be made affordable.

Q4 Significant action against climate change must be taken now.

I will support measures to achieve the target of 70% of our power coming from renewable sources, encourage the use of electric vehicles, ban single-use plastics, and support cycling initiatives, including the regulation of e-scooters.

Q5 Public transport in the north county needs to improve significantly.

I will continue to support MetroLink, with drilling tests beginning recently in Swords, and a DART

H

extension, increased capacity on the northern commuter line, and a BusConnects proposal that delivers a better services for everyone.

Q6 I have a track record of working diligently for my constituents all of the time, not just some of the time, to deliver vital investment in our social infrastructure and ensure communities have the supports they require.

CLLR DEAN MULLIGAN, INDEPENDENTS 4 CHANGE, PIC C

Q1 A WELL-FUNDEDfunded one-tier national health service free for all based on need, not ability to pay.

Abolition of GP fees and prescription charges and full implementation

I

E

Vying for your precious vote ...

See corresponding responses from these candidates running for General Election 2020, who are listed in alphabetical order, below ....

of Slaintecare, which has been sidelined by Fine Gael and Fianna Fail.

Q2 Well-planned communities with facilities and infrastructure in place in advance of construction.

Rent caps to protect tenants, and the establishment of a national home building agency to immediately construct 20,000 homes per year.

Q3 Increase funding for primary and post primary education schools, more non-denominational schools and places for children.

Reduce class sizes from the highest in the EU to the average, and emphasis on early intervention services and funding for children with intellectual disabilities and special

23 January 2020 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

THE COUNTRY’S MAIN TALKING POINTS school provisions (including more SNAs).

Q4 Real policies which will make the real polluters pay for our climate crisis.

Ringfence funding for clean technology industries.

[Ensure] a ‘just transition’ for workers in exposed industries and, finally, a national retro-fitting campaign which will make all households more energy-efficient while providing decent jobs for young workers.

Q5 Public transport and infrastructure for such should form an integral part of pre planning stage of community development.

Roads, rail, cycleways, paths and greenways should be established along with amenities prior to housing construction.

Public transport should be affordable and [offer] the optimum choice of transport – at present, it couldn’t be further from this.

Q6 I am different – the parties which created the problems we face today are not fit to solve them.

Embrace change, hold your candidates accountable, get informed, and support candidates based on their record of accountability, honesty, integrity and a desire to do their best for everyone they represent.

CLLR PAUL MULVILLE, SOCIAL DEMOCRATS, PIC D

Q1 I WANT to see an Irish NHS – a publicly funded, universally accessible healthcare system like they have in the UK. We can do this, and we have a plan.

Q2 The housing crisis is a national scandal. We have a generation with lives on pause, living with parents in their 20s and 30s because they’ve been priced out of the market.

I will tackle land hoarding, dereliction and speculation by cuckoo and vulture funds, which drives

up the cost of housing for us all.

Q3 I have been working with my colleague, Deputy Roisin Shortall, demanding that the Government implement the Education for Persons with Special Needs Act in full, so that school childrens’ rights to their educational needs can be strengthened.

Q4 I will fight to implement a National Coastal Plan to protect our vulnerable towns and communities such as Portrane.

Nationally, I will fight to end offshore drilling, to maintain global temperatures at less than 1.5°C above pre-Industrial levels, and to avoid the most severe impacts of a changing climate; 80% of the known fossil fuels must stay in the ground.

Q5 The transport in our area is woefully illequipped for the growing population of Fingal.

For example, only 1.5% of the National 2020 Road Infrastructure Improvement Grants will be spent in Dublin.

These resources could be used to upgrade our local road infrastructure, provide segregated and safe cycling routes, and to increase capacity in our public transport system.

Q6 It’s time for a change, and I am asking for people’s vote so that I can work to deliver long-term and intelligent solutions.

Don’t accept politics as usual – vote for better.

CLLR TONY MURPHY, INDEPENDENT, PIC E

Q1 ESTABLISH a focused Winter campaign on vaccination. Better local care, reducing the spike in Winter admissions.

Ensure all primary care centres are fully equipped to offer primary care and alleviate pressure in A&E. Empowering management to make decisions, get staff buy-in, and deliver.

Q2 I’d adequately fund local authorities, allowing them take ownership and empower them to build

without undue red tape on lands in public ownership in areas that can support an increase in population.

Expand the caps on local authority home loans to create an opportunity for more homeowneroccupier.

Q3 Second Level also experiences a lack of places. A new calculation of demand must be developed.

Industry is the primary beneficiary of an educated workforce, and should be part of the funding solution.

I support the aims of AsIAm, and believe that all schools must include autism units.

SNAs are a must in ensuring a good learning environment.

TDs must prioritise educational facilities, both physical and staffing, to ensure our next generations have the best possible start on which to build a successful life.

Q4 We need to wake up and smell the coffee. We must make substantial changes to how we live.

We must get community buy-in to the changes, which must be appropriate and achievable.

Q5 Definitely not. There are key things to consider: deliver now the DART extension to Balbriggan; deliver the Metro; free local transport, providing appropriate connectivity to commuter services; and give buses priority at traffic lights while in bus lanes.

Q6 I’m an experienced politician with commitment, energy, ideas and empathy, with a focused determination to succeed and deliver for those I represent.

DEPUTY JOE O’BRIEN, GREEN PARTY, PIC F

Q1 IT IS unacceptable that the trolley crisis is worse than ever!

All parties agree the way forward is a plan called Slaintecare.

However, it is not being adequately resourced. It

GENERAL ELECTION 2020

needs to be resourced.

Q2 The current market-/ developer-led approach is failing. We [should] commit to building more public housing on public land.

This will provide much needed homes, but also relieve pressure on the rental sector.

Q3 Adequate school places is a big issue across Dublin Fingal. This is due to a lack of forward planning.

Greens are future planners, and our approach will help prevent further school shortages.

Q4 If you want Green, you need to vote Green.

Many parties talk the talk, but if the environment and climate change are important to voters, we ask them to put this concern into a numberone vote [for the Greens].

Q5 As a regular user of bus and rail services in Dublin Fingal, I am very aware of their shortcomings.

Rail capacity needs to be expanded, Metro to Swords [links] need to be accelerated, and we need to develop more and better bus routes.

Fingal needs a safe cycling network, with segregated cycle lanes.

Q6 Every constituency needs a Green voice, and a champion for the protection of human rights.

DUBLIN WEST DEPUTY JACK CHAMBERS, FIANNA FAIL, PIC G

Q1 THE problems in the health service, like the overcrowded emergency departments and the longest ever waiting lists, are down to insufficient capacity within the system.

Fianna Fail would prioritise recruitment, particularly in primary and community care.

Q2 I believe tackling the housing crisis is an economic, social and moral imperative, and I am con-

fident my party has the policies to deliver the largescale public and private housing projects to turn around policy in this area.

We will open up clear pathways to social and affordable home ownership.

Q3 There has been a population boom in Dublin West, but public services have not kept pace, particularly in education, where parents can find it impossible to secure primary and secondary school places.

I am prioritising the many long-promised but never delivered school building projects across the constituency.

Q4 I am focused on modernising our public transport system by introducing more electric vehicles and delivering improved, cost-effective bus and rail services.

I will also prioritise the development of our cycling infrastructure so that people are given a safe, reliable alternative to their car.

Q5 I am working to fasttrack the electrification of the Dublin-Maynooth rail line which has been deprioritised by the outgoing government.

I would also like to see much greater investment in cycling infrastructure, and take cycle tracks out of bus lanes, which are dangerous and a deterrent to people cycling.

Q6 I am hard working, passionate and energetic about representing people, and am the only candidate that can provide the change people in Dublin West want to see in areas such as housing, health, education and public transport reform.

CLLR EMER CURRIE, FINE GAEL, PIC H

Q1 [I BELIEVE that our health focus should be on] Slaintecare; invest in community healthcare to alleviate the pressure on acute services; increase homecare, beds and frontline staff; and complete

SEE MORE CANDIDATES’ ANSWERS NEXT WEEK...

government negotiations and reviews with consultants and GPs to address resources.

Q2 More social, private and affordable housing options in sustainable communities.

Pace of delivery is only going to increase from here. Some 60,000 social houses will be delivered over the next five years, and the total number of houses will rise from 25,000 to at least 35,000 per year.

Continue investment in ‘Housing First’ to help homelessness and our most vulnerable.

Q3 I help parents and schools daily with school capacity, building projects, access to school meals, school traffic, mental health, special education, and more.

Q4 I will drive the national Climate Action Plan locally, expanding Green Flag schools to Green Flag Communities, so wider communities can come together to reduce landfill and single-car use and increase mass retrofits and biodiversity projects.

I campaign for suburban co-working spaces, which, as well as increasing people’s quality of life, reduces transport emissions.

Q5 No. We need an integrated transport system for D15, and delivery of long-awaited projects.

Money is now ringfenced to electrify the rail line, upgrade the bus network, segregate more cycle lanes, for the Royal Canal Greenway and Blanchardstown-Phoenix Park cycle route.

We need a D15 outer ring road to reduce congestion in our villages.

Q6 As a young mum, I know how stretched and squeezed people are, so I have the practical ideas

and experience to make their lives better – from childcare to elder care, the cost of living to living more sustainably.

CLLR RODERIC O’GORMAN, GREEN PARTY, PIC I

Q1 DELIVER on the Slainte Care Report, which is the agreed road map to repairing our broken health system.

Put a focus on primary care, mental health services and much better oversight of new building projects, to avoid another Children’s Hospital fiasco.

Q2 The Government must financially support county councils to deliver more affordable and social housing on land it owns, and create a new model of renting – cost rental – which would be affordable to those priced out of the current rental market.

Q3 The Green Party proposes that each Junior, Senior and First Class should have an automatic SNA, to support any children in those classes who are awaiting a diagnosis.

The Department of Education must improve on the delivery of new school buildings.

Q4 From Australia to the Amazon, we see the cost of failing to act on climate change.

We need to elect TDs who have a track record of fighting for a better environment.

Q5 We need to see extra buses and more priority for buses on the way in and out of the city.

The Maynooth line must be upgraded to DART standard.

Q6 Over the past 15 years as a campaigner and a councillor, I have always put the needs of our community in Dublin 15 first.

I’m asking voters to trust me with their number-one vote.

WHAT are your thoughts on General Election 2020?

What are the most important topics for you? What would you like the next government and Taoiseach to focus on? We’d love to know!

Email news@dublingazette.com with your views (using the subject line ‘General Election 2020 thoughts’), and we’ll reprint the best of our reader responses before the election itself.

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23 January 2020

STYLE P14

DUBLIN

COSY ON UP TO OUR LOOK INSIDE AT SOME OF THE COMFIEST SLEEPWEAR OUT THERE

MUSIC: SINGER JOHN CRAIGIE BRINGS A DASH OF HUMOUR TO HIS WORK: P20

MOTORING: FORD MONDEO HYBRID P19

MAGAZINE

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

CELEBRATION TIME | CHINESE NEW YEAR

Plenty of Highlights as Chinese New Year 2020 celebrations commence PADRAIG CONLON

DUBLIN CHINESE New Year Festival returns this week welcoming the Year of the Rat. The very popular annual Festival in the city marks the lunar new year with an exciting two-week programme of events set to run until February 10th.

Established in 2008, the Dublin Chinese New Year Festival celebrates, promotes and deepens the understanding of the Sino/Irish relationship.

With Chinese New Year’s Day falling on Saturday (25th) the festival plans to deliver a high profile cultural and celebratory programme to mark this significant date in the Chinese Calendar.

Here is a selection of some of the great events coming up this week: SPRING FESTIVAL FAIR - Saturday Dublin’s historic Fruit and Vegetable Market will reopen for two days on Sat 25 and Sun 26 to host the flagship event of the 2020 Dublin Chinese New Year Festival – the Spring Festival Fair.

EPIC THE IRISH EMIGRATION MUSEUM TOURS - Saturday Discover stories of the pioneering Irish emigrants who have shaped the world with this specially curated Chinese New Year tour of EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.

DUMPLINGS: WRAPPING UP A LONG HISTORY - Saturday Find out all about Chinese dumplings, the different types, what they symbolise, where they

originated from and how they are made. If you love dumplings, you wont want to miss this!

HILL STREET FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION -Saturday Hill Street will transform into a Chinese Wonderland, hosting a wide range of entertainment, as well as traditional Chinese workshops and performances. This action-packed celebration will feature live music, dance, drama, tai chi, origami, and shadow puppetry workshops.

ASIA MARKET FOOD TOURS - Sunday Enjoy an exclusive tour of Dublin’s destination for Asian food and ingredients, Asia Market at the heart of the city’s creative quarter on Drury Street.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE DRESS BANQUET Tuesday A unique experience to attend a traditional Chinese banquet inspired by the Song Dynasty, part of China’s golden age. At the banquet, you’re invited to savour dishes from this expansive era, with a contemporary twist.

XĪNNIÁN CHINESE COCKTAIL MASTERCLASSWednesday Opium will be hosting a cocktail masterclass designed to bring blessings and good fortune…in cocktail form!

This special masterclass will focus on the creation of a selection of cocktails based on Chinese ingredients, culture and mythology.

To find out more on all events and to purchase tickets: www.dublinchinesenewyear.com

Local Chinese children Dora Liu and Amia Zheng pictured at the launch of the Chinese New Year Community Celebrations, hosted by Hill Street Family Resource Centre in partnership with North East Inner City initiative taking place on Saturday 23rd January on Hill Street, Dublin 1

23 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

QUIRKY MATTERS

DUBLIN BITS & BOBS

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

STAFF and management at Centra in Blackrock cheered as a cork was popped to celebrate the store having sold the winning ticket for the recent EuroMillions Ireland Only Raffle top prize of €1 million. Lydene Kavanagh, Jim O’Connor (sales manager, National Lottery), Des Kenny, Joanne McKeever, Jim Kenny (owner, Centra store), Blaise Kenny (manager), Jenny Jones and Michael Molloy (National Lottery) cheered as champers

DIY bomb trip ends in arrest

A FLORIDA woman was arrested earlier this month after a Walmart security guard noticed she was constructing a bomb inside the Tampa store.

The security guard spotted a woman and child walking around the shop suspiciously for an hour, opening unpaid items that included denatured alcohol, nails, and a mason jar.

When the security guard approached the woman, he realised she was attempting to light a wick to her DIY bomb.

Emily Stallard (37), was

apprehended by security personnel before she detonated the device, with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office notified.

Stallard was charged with firebombing, attempted arson of a structure, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, child abuse, and battery on a law enforcement officer, with the child taken into protective custody.

Regime punishes loyal mum

A MOTHER in North Korea is under investigation for saving her two children

from their burning home instead of portraits of former leader Kim Jong IL and his late father, Kim IL Sung.

According to Latin Times, the Ministry of State Security has begun an investigation into the incident, that occurred in the Onsong County of the secluded state on December 30.

North Korean law dictates that all citizens display portraits of the two deceased rulers of the country in their homes.

Because of the investigation, it is understood that the mother is unable to properly care for her injured children, who suffered burns from the fire.

According to People

magazine, the mother has been pleading with neighbours for money so she can buy the necessary antibiotics to treat her children.

However, she has been refused, with locals fearing being charged with a political crime if they oblige.

Man calls for a duel with his ex

A KANSAS man has asked a judge to let him engage in a samurai sword duel with his ex-wife and her attorney.

David Ostrom (40), of Paola, Kansas, and his former wife, Bridgette Ostrom

(38), of Harlan, Iowa, have been locked in a bitter dispute over parental custody, visitation rights and property tax payments during their divorce settlement.

According to David Ostrom, their judge has the power to let the sides “resolve our disputes on the field of battle, legally”.

He added that trial by combat “has never been explicitly banned or restricted as a right in these United States”, and asked the judge to schedule the duel for 12 weeks’ time, so he could locate Japanese samurai swords.

The judge is understood to be deliberating the case at the time of going to print.

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

This week’s dog of the week is Chisum, a sweet ten-year-old German Shepherd that is looking for homecomforts, a nice garden and access to good walks. He is shy to start with, but once he knows you, he literally showers you with love!

Chisum enjoys playing with his toys.

He is looking for a home where he will be the only pet as he can be worried around other dogs.

He could live with children of 16 years or over, as long as they give him

space when he needs it.

Chisum will need a home with his own secure garden where he can relax and potter, just like a dog of his vintage likes to do.

If you have room in your heart and home for Chisum then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie.

You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. (Remember: Always have your dog on a lead when in public.)

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

01 - 6010240 sales@dublingazette.com

FIND US ON

www.dublingazette.com Dublin Gazette Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements

chisum

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

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23 January 2020

HOME & STYLE

FRESH IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME AND WARDROBE

BeautyBITS

Doutzen announced as new face of ONLY ONLY have announced Dutch supermodel Doutzen Kroes as the new face of their new SS20 Campaign.

ONLY is celebrating 25 years in fashion and is kicking the year off with a very special campaign, with Kroes following in the footsteps of models such as Helena Christensen and Naomi Campbell.

Finn Poulsen, Director of ONLY, said: “Doutzen Kroes is a super strong character, a true It girl and we are very proud to have landed such a top profile as our new campaign model.”

Marc Jacobs launch special spring scents MARC JACOBS will be releasing limited editions of their iconic Daisy fragrances for the Spring season, called Daisy Daze.

The limited edition fragrances are a ‘fresh and fruity’ twist on the classics.The beloved caps - covered in plastic daisy shapes - will be adorned with golden accents as well as opaque and translucent pearls.

Daisy by Marc Jacobs gets spiced up with inviting bursts of mandarin with a sweet mirabelle sparkle, giving a crisp scent.

The Daisy Eau So Fresh fragrance will be injected with luscious white peach and orchard blossoms for a sense of comforting freshness, while Daisy Dream will be infused with a delicate and warm finish courtesy of silky wisteria and juicy loganberries.

Daisy Love will be elevated with bright osmanthus wrapped in the softness of amber.

The Daisy Daze collection will be priced from €71 to €81, and will be available in Arnotts, Brown Thomas and selected pharmacies from January 29.

CALM & COSY

Penneys ‘Calm’ collection of soft, soothing sleepware is comfy, and stylish while also conscious, as it uses sustainable fabrics.

THERE IS never a wrong time for curling up in a fresh new pair of pyjamas, with Penneys the go-to for all our soft, soothing sleepware needs.

Now, the major pyjama player introduce their ‘Calm’ collection, a range of neutral coloured, deliciously soft pyjamas designed to suit everyone while keeping things comfy.

The range includes longsleeved thermal style tops, sweatshirt style hoodies, tank tops, pyjamas and more in stone, grey and cream neutral tones. Best of all, the collection is made from sustainable fabrics, meaning you can be comfy, chic and conscious. The collection is available in all Penneys stores now.

Out with the old, in with the new – interior trends for 2020 Now that 2020 is well underway, and your new year’s resolutions are slowly coming to a close, it’s time to start thinking about what’s really important – your interior!

Some of 2019’s biggest interior trends included velvet, geometric patterns, minimalism, and pastel colour blocks. But you know what they say, out with the old, in with the new! Here are EZ Living Furniture’s 2020 interior trend predictions.

1. Mixed Metals!

By the end of 2019 brass and copper became very popular. People started introducing subtle metallic features in the form of taps, shelf mirrors, and legs of tables. But now that it’s 2020, the metal trend has really started to take off.

2. More is More!

Although 2019 was all about minimalism, 2020 has already proven to want more for its occupants. Maximalism is already taking off this January with people investing in bolds, bright colours, and abstract prints.

3. Black is Back!

Black is back. Whites and woods may have been 2019 focused but now that it’s 2020, black is back and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Matte blacks will create a chic and sophisticated look to your interior this year.

4. FLOWER POWER! Block wallpaper was trending in 2019 but now that it’s 2020, it’s all about floral wallpaper adding a bit of punch. Shades of greens, botanical designs, and even geometric patterns are all in. What’s becoming

even more on trend is the placement of your wallpaper with wallpaper added to the bathroom, and ceiling becoming more popular than ever before.

5. 50 SHADES OF PINK! 2019 featured lots of greys, blues and yellows but from what we can see already, pink is giving us a wink. Subtle pink shades such a pastel pink, blush pink, and baby pink are sure to create calming moods in your homes this year!

Here’s to a new decade of interior design.

What are you predicting?

23 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

GAZETTE

LOVE MARRIAGE

INSIDE… Make your wedding extra special P17

Tips for the Best Man P18

Before you turn over…

WHETHER it’s your own wedding or civil ceremony, or if you’re a mum or dad or other part of the wedding party, there’s a lot to think about, plan and organise to help ensure that you – or they – will have a moment to treasure.

Thankfully, we have put together a

Bridal party P18

little bit of information that, we hope, will help to make the big day a little easier to arrange.

From ideas to make your wedding extra special to some of the very best wedding venues across Dublin or down the country, you’ll find it here.

Take the time to browse what we’ve put together, and you’re bound to see something, someone or somewhere in here to help make your big day perfect.

So relax, read, and above all, all the best for your (or their) big day!

See inside

GAZETTE

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23 January 2020

LOVE MARRIAGE

Annebrook enchants with ease on the day

Annebrook House Hotel effortlessly marries a historic setting with the latest in modern styling

SITUATED in the heart of Mullingar, the award-winning 4-star Annebrook House Hotel presents wedding couples with a spectacular fusion of 17th Century heritage and the ultimate in modern styling.

This makes Annebrook House Hotel perfect for being both “something old, something new” for happy couples looking for the perfect wedding venue.

Whether it’s to be a grand affair or an intimate reception, the style of couple’s wedding is entirely up to them, with the hotel catering for 30-280 guests.

As a family-owned hotel, Annebrook House Hotel prides itself in offering a very personalised service, from the initial booking stage all the way through to the dream day.

Sumptuous food, combined with topclass service, are the main ingredients of any good wedding and Annebrook House Hotel delivers both these elements seamlessly.

Its friendly and approachable service will ensure any wedding day is everything a couple could want it to be and more.

The wedding team at Annebrook House Hotel constantly strives to keep up to date with current trends to ensure every couple’s day is as memorable and as individual as they are.

For further information, see www. annebrook.ie, or email the dedicated weddings manager at events@annebrook.ie.

Feel your best on you’re wedding day

A NEW clinic dedicated to pampering the skin has launched in Dublin 2 perfect for a treat ahead of your big day!

Akrona Aesthetics, located at 18B-19B Fitzwilliam Street Upper, has a host of non-invasive treatments that fuse Irish skincare with Korean technology.

As well as skincare, the clinic also offers massages and body scrubs for an all over treatment as you get ready for your wedding day.

Treatments on offer at the new salon include mesotherapy with LED light, heated lava stone massage, Ayurvedic herbal body scrub with Marma Therapy and Megawhite Teeth Whitening. The treatments are non-invasive, but the methods on offer are cutting edge for combating wrinkles, acne and many other facial aesthetic treatments all underneath the banner of holistic remedies.

Akrona aims to provide a natural alternative to the likes of botox and fillers, to help produce a more vibrant, youthful appearance. The masterminds behind the salon have 25 years of experience in health and beauty.

Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 10am to 7pm. For information on Akrona Aesthetics, visit Akrona.ie.

23 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

GAZETTE

10 Ideas to make your wedding extra special 1. SEATING During the ceremony, why not change the seating style and have the chairs set in a circular pattern around you, it can not only make you more visible to all the guests but make everyone feel more included.

2. INVITATIONS Invites don’t have to be formal or fancy, show your personality by making them funny or relatable to your guests.

3 . BOUQUET Attaching something to your flowers as you walk down the aisle can be a lovely way to keep something close that holds sentimental value – such as a picture or piece of jewellery.

4. ANNIVERSARY On the day, get your guests to write you a note for your first anniversary and pop them into a pinata. One year later, it’ll be waiting for you to burst open and reminisce.

5. TABLES Give each table a song name or lyric and when that song plays everyone at that table has to get up and dance.

6. COASTERS Practical bespoke printed coasters are a fun way of making sure drinks are not cleared from the tables while your guests are enjoying themselves on the dance floor – they can also take them home as gifts.

7. PHOTOS As it gets dark, give your guests sparklers and go outside to create a wonderful photo opportunity.

8. CRECHE If there are many young children coming to the wedding, why not hire a babysitter to keep them entertained and relaxed in an assigned room with games, blankets and pillows.

9. BOUNCY CASTLES – Bouncy castles are not just for kids. If you have the space, rent a castle – guests will love a bounce during the day and will also create a great photo opportunity.

10. TAKEAWAY If you’re guests are too full for cake or dessert, give them a slice or two to take home with them in a Styrofoam box or doggy-bag.

Perfect for the day of your dreams THE 4-star Westgrove Hotel in the picturesque village of Clane is one of Kildare’s premier wedding venues.

The Westgrove Hotel has two main wedding suites; both of which have a private bar, dance floor and are adorned with natural day light.

In addition to the suite for the main celebration, there are also many other areas in the hotel which form an integral part of the day such as the grand staircase which proves popular for photographs.

On arrival, guests enjoy exclusive use of the Roof Terrace Bar which links to the Wedding Garden while enjoying the sounds of the resident pianist as your sip champagne and mingle with family and friends.

The Wedding Garden is the perfect backdrop for photographs, outdoor ceremonies and next day BBQ’s.

They offer two fantastic wedding packages, priced at 10k or 12k respectively or they can offer a bespoke package depending on your needs. Why not visit the Wedding Fair on Sunday February 2 from 2-5pm, register your interest by emailing bmurray@westgrovehotel.com

GAZETTE

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23 January 2020

LOVE MARRIAGE

Top tips for the Best Man on the big day IF you’ve gotten the call to do the honours as Best Man your biggest duty on the day is to deliver a speech.

This can be both a terrifying and exciting experience, depending on how you prepare. Here we have the top tips to ensure your speech is memorable for all the right reasons!

Prepare: Don’t stand up and try and wing it. A bit of preparation goes a long way.

Speech goals: You want your speech is to celebrate the couple and make them look good.

Stay sober: Nobody wants to listen to a drunk falling around talking gibberish. Give the drink a rest until after your speech.

Say thanks: Thank everyone who made the day possible.

Tell an interesting story: You don’t need to deliver the Gettysberg address, just make sure everyone will not be bored to death!

Avoid controversial topics: Now isn’t the time to share your belief in the flat

earth theory and 9/11 conspiracies.

Keep it short: Yes, please, please, please don’t break this rule!

Don’t forget the toasts: The bride, the groom, her parents, his parents, bridesmaids, you know the drill!

Just be yourself: Use your natural voice and just let it flow!

Here comes the bridal party!

THE bride is obviously the most important lady on the day - her dress has to be perfect, as well as her accessories, hair... everything, really!

However, her bridal party is just as important. Monsoon have just released an affordable, stylish new line of flower girl dresses, page boy suits, bridesmaids dress-

es and the all important wedding dress too. The theme of the collection is modern romance, with wedding jumpsuits, flattering cuts and luxe fabrics all part of the mix.

For more information and to see more of the pieces on offer, as well as pricing for the new collection, please visit Monsoon.co.uk.

23 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT

DUBLIN MOTORS

New Ford Mondeo Hybrid: The image of refinement

DECLAN GLYNN

AS BEFITS a car that pioneers technology, the new Ford Mondeo is available as a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV).

By combining the benefits of both electric and petrol power, the Mondeo Hybrid provides outstanding efficiency and refinement, along with rewarding performance and driving range.

The revisions to the Mondeo include a new front bumper, a different grille for each trim level, and a metallic strip through the car’s revised tail-lights.

The new Ford Mondeo HEV is available in either 4-door Saloon, or 5-door Wagon (estate) bodystyles, with petrol power provided by a 2.0-litre engine, which is linked to an electronically-con-

trolled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Wi t h a c o m b i n e d power output of 187bhp, and 173Nm of torque, the Mondeo Hybrid is capable of sprinting from 0-100kmph in 9.2 seconds.

There are three trim levels in the Mondeo Hybrid – Titanium, ST-Line, and range-topping Vignale, while the Mondeo diesel is also available in entrylevel Zetec specification.

My review car was a Mondeo Titanium Estate Hybrid, which was finished in ever-popular Moondust Silver metallic paintwork.

Standard Titanium features include 16” alloy wheels, power-folding door mirrors, SYNC 3 with an 8” touchscreen, parking sensors front & rear, keyless entry, cruise control with speed limiting device, traffic sign recog-

nition, and lane keeping aid, along with many more comfort, convenience and safety features.

Once on the move, the Mondeo Hybrid swaps between the electric motors and petrol engine seemlessly, while the CVT (automatic) transmission is well matched to the powertrain.

When in Hybrid mode, the Mondeo is very quiet inside, proving that the

Mondeo’s engineering progress is driven by hybrid technology.

The Mondeo Hybrid is a very capable car to drive through bends, as it possesses great dynamic ability – something Ford cars have been renowned for over the past two decades now.

With the rear seat backs in place, the conventional Mondeo Estate has a 525litre boot, but the electric

technology in the Mondeo Hybrid cuts this figure to 403 litres – which is still an acceptable load area for this type of car.

However, this figure can be dramatically increased by folding the rear seats flat when the need arises.

The new Ford Mondeo Hybrid range is priced from €34,830 for the 4-door ‘saloon’, while the 5-door ‘wagon’ is priced from €35,997.

Brussels helps showcase the cars of the future DECLAN GLYNN

THE Brussels Motor Show 2020 has just come to an end, and what a terrific show it was.

The 98th edition of the Brussels Motor Show was bigger and better than ever before, with a huge display of cars, motorcycles and new mobility options on show.

Unlike other international car shows, every car make on the European market was represented at the show, which attracted more than 560,000 visitors last year.

This year, visitors were treated to a long list of new car debuts, with the show having been officially opened by Her Royal Highness Princess Astrid of Belgium on January 9.

Cars that made their world debut at the show included the Audi A5 Sportback g-tron, Nissan Juke, Mercedes-

New Nissan Juke

Benz GLA, Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG, Opel Insignia, Renault Captur E-tech, Renault Clio E-tech, and the Renault Espace.

European debuts included the Audi e-tron Sportback, BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe, BMW M2 CS, BMW M8 Gran Coupe, Mazda 2, Mazda MX-30, Mini John Cooper Works GP, and the Mitsubishi Space Star.

Car manufacturers love to show off their concept and prototype cars to the huge crowds that motor shows traditionally attract, and the Brussels Motor Show certainly had its fair share of cars of the future on display.

Citroen took the opportunity to showcase their Ami One Concept, and the C5 Aircross PHEV, while other cars included the Cupra Tavascan, DS

Mazda MX-30

Automobiles Formula e, Opel Corsa E-Rally, Opel Elektro GT, Peugeot 508 Peugeot Sport Engineered, Renault Clio HEV – E TECH, SEAT EL-Born, Volkswagen ID Buggy, and the Volkswagen ID Buzz.

With Brussels just a relatively short distance from Dublin (approximately a 90-minute flight time), and attrac-

VW ID Buggy

tive accommodation prices to be had, the Brussels Motor Show is a mustvisit event for motoring enthusiasts.

I am looking forward to the 2021 show already!

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23 January 2020

GOINGOUTOUT

JANUARY 23 (THURSDAY)

Tommy Emmanuel @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT The Felice Brothers @ Whelan’s, €23 Seth Lakeman @ The Button Factory, €25 Costello + Lethal Dialect @ The Workman’s Club, €11

JANUARY 24 (FRIDAY)

Schoolboy Q @ The Olympia Theatre, sold out Big Sleep @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €12 Waterparks @ The Academy, €25 Boxing Banjo @ The Button Factory, €20

JANUARY 25 (SATURDAY)

Xylouris White @ Whelan’s, €18 The Young Uns @ The Button Factory, €20 The Teskey Brothers @ The Academy, €18 Deno @ The Academy 2, SOLD OUT Cult Called Man @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €10+

JANUARY 26 (SUNDAY)

Afro Celt Sound @ The Olympia Theatre, €32 The High Kings @ Vicar Street, €34 Tim Baker @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €5

JANUARY 27 (MONDAY)

James Yorkston @ The Workman’s Club, €18

JANUARY 28 (TUESDAY)

Mabel @ The Olympia Theatre, SOLD OUT Robyn Hitchcock @ Whelan’s, €15 Young MA @ The Academy, €20

JANUARY 29 (WEDNESDAY)

Sam Lewis @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €13 KSI @ The Academy Green Room, SOLD OUT

“

I love listening to old vinyl and I feel like my recording approaches are similar to the styles of the days when analog was the standard

John Craigie: Storytelling through songs and tales with a pinch of quick wit JOHN Craigie’s road to the world of Folk-style, quirky solo guitarist has been an unusual one.

Starting out as more of a spoken word artist, the LA-born, Portland-based troubadour releases conventional albums, but has made his live show into a kind of blend of winding tales and audience interaction blurred with Bluegrass-style, mellow guitar pop.

His offbeat side really comes out in those winding spoken fusions, with tracks aimed at particular audience members such as, Let’s Talk This Over When We’re Sober, for the couples, or jokey spoken-word release, Pants In England, about struggling with language differences in Europe, and then finding England no easier.

On the live record, Opening For Steinbeck, Carigie jokes that his ideal audience is a room full of people who’ve just been dumped.

He says: “I was actually a storyteller before I was a songwriter. As I began performing, it did take a little bit of time to figure out how to blend the two together.

“But it was a natural path of discovery and I am still learning and enjoying it today. I’m still figuring out the answer to the touring stuff.

“I find that senses of humour are slightly different. Some of my banter makes sense to the audience, and some doesn’t.

“Other than that, it hasn’t been that different. I need to check my American accent sometimes and, if the audience doesn’t speak English,

 JAMES HENDICOTT

then I have to shift my set up a bit as well.”

Latest album, Scarecrow, is – much like Craigie live – a collection of oddities blended from his back catalogue. There’s no particular theme; more a collection of scraps left from previous records.

“It is comprised of songs that didn’t make it onto my album, No Rain, No Rose, and songs that didn’t fit the vibe of my upcoming album.

“So I guess if there is a theme, it’s sort of that [those songs] are all a bit homeless. Alone, like a scarecrow out in the field.

“I decided I wanted to record something that was all analog, using tape machines, and then cutting it straight to vinyl.

“Luckily, I live in Portland, which is full of audiophiles, and had some studios that had all the vintage gear I needed for the project.

“I love listening to old vinyl and I feel like my recording approaches are similar to the styles of the days when analog was the standard.

“At heart, I would say I am an analog-type person, but it can be very expensive and complex.”

Of Portland, he says: “It’s a great community here.

Very collaborative and inclusive.

“There’s so much talent and everyone seems very excited to share and work together. I never feel like I can’t find a good musician when I need one.”

Picture: Bradley Cox

As for the tours, it’s very much about making that local connection, and finding out what makes sense in the context of different audiences.

“My show is a mix between storytelling and songs,” Craigie explains.

“I love to connect with

the audience, and always play to the room. I’m looking forward to figuring out the stories and songs that they connect with best.

“Touring is a huge part of my life and it’s important for me to be extra conscious during that time.

“I’m trying to limit my

waste and the plastic I use, and trying to educate my audience on such things as well.”

What’s certain is that Craigie will talk as much as he’ll sing, and his humour will shine.

It’s a Folk vibe, but heavy on the comedy asides.

23 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

BIG HONOUR FOR FORMER DUBLIN MANAGER

DUBLIN FREEDOM

FREEDOM OF THE CITY | 500 GATHER AT MANSION HOUSE

Top City honour for modest Jim Gavin CÓILÍN DUFFY GROUP EDITOR

Lord Mayor Paul McAuliffe; Jim Gavin and his wife Jenifer and their children, Jude (11) and Yasmin (13)

Life of politics not for Freeman Jim CÓILÍN DUFFY

JIM GAVIN says he doesn’t envisage a career in politics – for now at least!

The newly crowned Freeman of Dublin was speaking to Dublin Gazette at the Mansion House – the venue where almost 101 years to the day the first Dáil sat in 1919.

“I don’t see that (I would be interested in a career in politics) at the moment,” Gavin told Dublin Gazette Group Editor Cóilín Duffy.

“I’ve pure admiration for politicians - in football you are busy with it, but for political people there’s more responsibility. I was manager of a football team, whereas they are managing people’s lives and I just have pure admiration for the commitment that politicians give.

Putting their hand up to represent their communities is a big commitment, and ye I’m happy back managing the Under 12’s!”

Gavin was honoured with the prestigious accolade at an event attend by Dublin Senior Football team members that included Brian Fenton, Ciaran Kilkenny and Paddy Andrews; and other luminaries from across the sporting world including former Irish Rugby team Head Coach Joe Schmidt, and ex Irish Underage soccer boss Brian Kerr.

As always Jim was keen to deflect the plaudits away from himself, again singling out the Dublin players involved in what subsequently placed them as the most successful mens Gaelic Football team ever, winning five-All-Ireland titles in-a-row, for special mention.

“It’s just a super honour to get it, and to be nominated first and foremost by the Lord Mayor, and then for it to be endorsed by Dublin City Council. As a Dub, and a proud Dub I’m just so humbled. When you look at the list of names that have gone before me, one can’t see themselves in that league. The way I see it, I am here to represent the team that I had the good fortune to manage, and the great players that played for Dublin during my tenure and that’s why I’m here. It’s not because of what I have done, but because of what they have done on the field of play. To represent them tonight, and indeed to represent Óglaigh na hÉireann that I served with for 20 years, and the Aviation Authority that I am heavily involved in, it’s just a proud moment for myself, for Dublin GAA, and for my family.

JIM GAVIN became the first receipient of the Freedom of the City of Dublin in four years, as many of his family, friends, GAA and work colleagues, and key figures from across the sporting spectrum were among the 500 gathered in the Mansion House on Saturday night .

The Clondalkin native followed a long line of luminarees to become the latest Freeman or Freewoman of the City including Isaac Butt, Bill Clinton, Mother Teresa, John F Kennedy, A. Chester Beatty, U2, Gay Byrne, Kevin Heffernan, Fr. Peter McVerry and Brian O’Driscoll.

Gavin became the first recipient of the honour since the February 28 2014, when John Giles and Brother Kevin Crowley were feted.

Lord Mayor of Dublin Paul McAuliffe presented the award to Jim, as the Council bestowed the honour on him for his contribution to public life and

(Main) Master Bowyer Jack Pinson with Dublin Lord Mayor Paul McAuliffe and former Dublin SF Manager Jim Gavin. (Inset) Dublin Gazette Group Editor Cóilín Duffy interviews Jim.

service to his county and country both on and off the field.

Gavin is best known as the outgoing Dublin Senior Football Manager, bringing a historic never before achieved ‘five-in-a-row’ of All-Ireland Senior Mens

Football titles, culminating in last September’s AllIreland Final replay win over Kerry.

However, he has also served his country for over 20 years as a military pilot for Óglaigh na hÉireann, holding the Senior rank of

Commandant.

He was also a former Chief Flying Instructor, a Captain and chief pilot in the Ministerial Air Transport Squadron and served as Chief of Military Aviation with the United Nations in the Central Afri-

can Republic and Chad.

Among the privileges/ duties of a Freeman/ woman is the right to pasture sheep on common ground within the city boundaries, which U2 exercised in 2000 on St. Stephen’s Green.

WHAT THEY SAID ABOUT JIM

Jim Gavin poses for a photo with his Dad Jim Snr.

He’s often not given enough credit for how good a footballer he was. By his size he couldn’t contest a high ball out the field, but he was so strong on the ground; he had great fitness, and he used it in a way that worked.

Charlie Redmond (Ex Dublin Footballer)

Much of the skills that we see of Jim on a daily basis - his fondness of analysis; his commitment to continuous improvement and continuous learning; are skills that Jim has translated successfully onto the football pitch.

There’s not many people who can translate that managerial and skill into the sports arena.

Peter Kearney C.E.O. Irish Aviation Authority Jim always had the knack of knowing when to put the arm around you and

when to give you the little kick and try and spur you on. It’s a credit to him that he was able to manage the group, and manage all the personalities. He was always calm, controlled, factual, objective, but off the pitch also Jim is such a lovely man.

Brian Fenton (Dublin Footballer) I first met Jim at the Ryder Cup with his Dad. I could see he was doing a really good job, and I wanted to know a couple of secrets!

Joe Schmidt (Ex Irish Rugby Coach)

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23 January 2020

DUBLIN BUSINESS WOMEN Our new, monthly insight into Dublin’s most successful women

DBW DUBLIN BUSINESS

WOMEN

No ‘stunt’ just a well executed piece of technology Creating digital infrastructures for towns and cities around Ireland WENDY STUNT is hyper about technology, and with justification, as the Director of Booniverse - a company which is creating digital infrastructures for towns and cities around Ireland in the form of apps, including one for our beloved capital city, the “Dublin App”, which was just launched in November.

The App is far from a ‘stunt’ but rather a well executed piece of technology by the Dublin Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, that allows effectively for locals and tourists alike to discover what is happening in Dublin.

Local attractions, great spots to eat and stay and a log of events and activities; are just some of the areas covered by the free to download app, which is available for both Android and Apple phones.

This App is described as a hyper-local app - one allowing people to ‘plugin’ to all that is happening in the city. Interactive mapping is a key feature of the app, as well as useful information and

a onetouch system to contact every business on the app.

Stunt, who won the ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ at the Irish Women’s Awards last year; is mindful of all that our island has to offer in terms of outdoor activities, and with 26% of all visitors to

DBW DUBLIN BUSINESS

WOMEN

our green shores coming to walk and hike, a key component of the app is the numerous interactive hikes and trails, and selfguided tours, which are available alongside business listings.

The App is also a transactional platform, where businesses can sell tickets, promote special offers and sell their goods and services.

The App is also av a i l a b l e fo r other towns and cities, including Galway, Cork, Tralee, Killarney, Midleton, Youghal, Cobh, Fermoy and Carrigaline.

2020 looks set to be an exciting one ahead for Stunt and Booniverse, with a number of other Irish towns and cities; along with some in the UK and Spain set to come on board.

Go DigiCard Managing Director and Dublin App creator Wendy Stunt

The App is also a transactional platform, where businesses can sell tickets, promote special offers and sell their goods and services.

ARE YOU A SUCCESSFUL DUBLIN BUSINESS WOMAN? EACH month, DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS are focusing on the promotion of Dublin Business Women.

We will be highlighting the vast talent that is Dublin Business Women. We will be talking to YOU about YOUR journey, where you are

in your business and about your plans. We’ll focus on what have been your obstacles, how you overcame them, and why you went into business and where you see yourself going.

Employees who are working for companies will also be promoted.

We want to hear YOUR story.

If you or any advertiser would like to be involved with this new DBW concept, and to be part of a sponsorship option, please contact Liz Ferris at her email below.

Commercial Director: Liz Ferris • lferris@dublingazette.com • 01 601 0240

23 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!

CODEWORDS

You could advertise here

DUBLIN PUZZLES SUDOKU EASY

MODERATE

SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

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

WORD SEARCH

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

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

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

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

Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

FIND THE HIDDEN WORDS AEROPLANES AMBLE AUNTY BOLD DERELICT FORGOT HERB HOBO HOLLOW IDEAS INCIDENTAL INCITE JUDGING

KURT LECTURED MUMP NOBEL PILL ROTE SICILY SNELL SOLICITOR UNANSWERED VENTURA WEAKLY

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

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 23 January 2020

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23 January 2020 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 25

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26 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 23 January 2020

23 January 2020 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

BASKETBALL P30

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

SEASONS GREETINGS: GAELIC GAMES: THE new league sea-

son gets under way this weekend for the Dublin men’s and women’s footballers.

Paul Mannion looks forward to Saturday night’s opening night at Croke Park against Kerry and Dessie Farrell’s first league game in charge. Mick Bohan, meanwhile, has made a string of changes to his squad for the spring campaign ahead.



GAZETTE

BOXING P29

PAGE 31-32

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS CRICKET | MORE STILL TO COME FROM SANDYMOUNT VETERAN

O’Brien tops the order in West Indies  sport@dublingazette.com

SANDYMOUNT’S Kevin O’Brien relished his role at the top of the order as he helped Ireland take down T20 world champions the West Indies in Basseterre in the first meeting of the series this week.

O’Brien was elevated to open the innings with Paul Stirling in T20s last year and the partnership seemed to click immediately.

Their partnership yielded a record 93 runs in the first six overs, a record high team score during the first powerplay in T20I cricket.

They went on to strike a 154-run partnership in 12.3 overs. This was a record T20I partnership for Ireland for any wicket, and put the visitors in a commanding position, eventually winning by four runs.

Reflecting on the partnership, O’Brien said: “We are both aggressive batsmen, so it comes quite naturally to us to play that way.

“I think when you play the best in the world, our approach is that you won’t beat them if you don’t stand face-to-face with them and throw some punches.

“So, the best way for us to beat teams is to play that way and take the game to the opposition.”

“It also helps to get you up for the challenge when there is such a passionate crowd, like in the Caribbean.

“The atmosphere the local fans create – they have a love of cricket and they like to watch cricket played the right way!

“They want to see players entertain them on the field, they want fours, sixes, wickets, catches. The party atmosphere in the stadiums is something that is not experienced anywhere else in the world.”

O’Brien’s score of 48 from 32 balls was his highest score on tour and he duly added a quickfire 36 off 18 balls in game three which ended in a loss and, ultimately, a shared series.

Railway Union’s Kevin O’Brien was in free-scoring form for Ireland in the T20 series in the West Indies. Picture: Oliver McVeigh

The most-capped Irish cricketer in history, with over 370 appearances for the national side, said it was another nice moment in a marquee career but he still has plans for more.

“I still enjoy my cricket and have ambitions for myself and for the team.

It’s a big year for us with the T20 World Cup in Australia being a big carrot to

work towards. “ I know I need to continue to improve my cricket and consistently put in match-winning contributions with the bat. While cricket is my job, I know it won’t last forever, so I want to continue to play as long as I’m fit, and as long as I’m adding to the national side.”

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

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

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 23 January 2020

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

1

SOCCER: GANNON PARK SIDE THROUGH TO FAI CUP LAST EIGHT

FINGALLIANS OUR Academy is back: We had great numbers on Saturday morning. New players aged 4 – 6 are most welcome. Please call to the club @ 9.45am to register. Our club shop is open during our academy, each Saturday from 10 – 11pm.

Club Shop: Fingallians Club Shop has now reopened with an amazing full range of new stock in association with O’Neills Store.

Membership 2020: Membership can now be paid on line. www.fingallians.com for all further details.

GAA Draw: Teams must start returning all tickets to the club bar. Any tickets not sold must be returned by 27th January.

Adult Training Times for New Players: AFL2 & AFL6 – Tuesday & Thursday 8pm. Hurlers @ 8.30pm in the club on Monday & Wednesday.

Hurling Workshop: A big thank you to Paudie Butler and his coaching on Friday evening in the club.

Dublin U14 Panel: Congratulations to Ellen Joyce on making the county panel for 2020.

Gym Opening Hours: This week the gym facility will open as normal. For further information or team bookings, please contact noel.cowman40@ gmail.com Senior Ladies Fundraiser Comp: Last Man Standing competition for the National Football League.

It’s €10 to enter and the prize will be €300.

Pick one team each week to win from the games in Division 1 & 2.

If you win you progress to the next round. Follow the link, join the club & enter to have a chance of winning! Closes on Friday.

SKERRIES HARPS ZINGO RESULT Sun 19 Jan 2020: 5 1 6 4 3 7 2. No jackpot or Dividend winner Next week’s jackpot a cool €8600. Envelopes still €2 or 3 for a fiver! Play on line at skerriesharps.ie and follow the links. Thanks to all who support the Zingo every week. Draw every Sunday evening at 6.30pm. Always good fun!

Academy Term 2 continues Sat mornings 10-11am.

Dont worry if you didnt make it for week 1, still time to register. Please contact Louise 085 1465673 for more details.

Skerries Harps GAA & Camogie club is currently seeking new volunteers for the year ahead across all aspects of the club - if you feel you would like to get involved - maybe on a Sat morning during Academy, on our Fundraising Committee, as a team mentor etc please contact secretary. skerriesharps.dublin@gaa. ie or pro.skerriesharps.dublin@gaa.ie for more details.

There are many ways that individuals can contribute to our growing club! We

welcome all volunteers. #clubiscommunity Skerries Harps would like to say well done to all our players who represented the club over the last number of years in the selection process for the 2020 Dublin Minor Football Panel. Our members and mentors are extremely proud of each and everyone of you and the fantastic representatives you are for Skerries Harps.

Congratulations to Eoin Wilde,Ben Jones , Eoghan O’Connor Flanagan & Greg McEneaney who have been selected on the Dublin Minor Panel for this years Championship. Best of luck lads!

Irish Blood Transfusion Service, next Blood Donation Clinic Thurs 23 Jan @ Skerries Community Centre #giveblood Skerries Harps Car Air Fresheners & key rings available from 2020 Feile Committee: Key rings €3 (2 for €5); Fresheners €1.50 ( 4 for €5).

Contact sinead on +353 87 236 9526 to get yours! #feile2020

Malahide United moved a step closer in the FAI Inter Cup as they bid to add to more silverware to their cabinet

Malahide Craven a hectic run-in with lots on the line FAI INTERMEDIATE CUP Home Farm Malahide United  DAVE DONNELLY sport@dublingazette.com

0 1

DARREN Craven led by example as Malahide United reached the quarter-finals of the FAI Intermediate Cup thanks to the captain’s secondhalf strike away to Home Farm.

The midfielder got on the end of a move involving substitutes Jordi Ebanda and Rob Duggan, who had only been on the field a matter of seconds, to seal a 1-0 win.

It brought to an end a frantic 30 seconds after Home Farm midfielder

Eoin Murray had missed a penalty, denied by the hand of keeper Dylan McNulty.

Malahide manager Ger Coughlan took the gamble of introducing Ebanda, Duggan and Gareth Craven before the penalty was taken and his decision paid off immediately.

After McNulty had palmed away Murray’s s p o t- k i c k , M a l a h i d e broke immediately up the other end through the former Dundalk striker Ebanda.

He picked out Murray in the centre, and he teed up his captain for a well-taken side-footed finish into the net, which

proved to be the only goal.

“It was a bit of a mad one,” Craven admitted to Dublin Gazette.

“Dylan saved a peno and then it was up the other end and nice to nick it. To be fair to them, they’re a good side. You’re wo r r y i n g a n d t h i n k you’re under pressure, but it swung on a big moment.

“They’re a good side and I think they’ll probably come up this year.

They’re f lying in the league below us. It was a good battle.”

The introduction of the three substitutes proved key, and Craven revealed that the dramatic inter-

vention is a favoured tactic of manager Coughlan.

“He likes that, the triple sub. He does that every game. He’s brave and happy enough to throw them on.”

The team’s success on the field means that, in all likelihood, the remainder of the season will be hectic for Malahide with two games a week a regular occurrence.

Having already booked their spot in the FAI Senior Cup first round, Malahide are hoping for a tie with a League of Ireland side.

Their immediate focus remains on the league (they’re a point behind

2 0 1 3 / 1 4 w i n n e rs S t Mochta’s after 13 games) and the next round of the cup.

C r ave n a d m i t s h e doesn’t care who they draw in the next round as the north Dublin club are confident they can beat anyone on their day.

“No, not at all. We’ll take anyone. We’ll just keep the winning going.

We have 20 players so we’re happy enough.

“We don’t mind playing two games a week.

It’s probably gone a little bit better [than we expected]. We’re ten or 11 games unbeaten now so we’re doing really well.”

Verona winning streak rolls on

Verona’s LSL Sunday Division 3 side

VERONA’S LSL Sunday Division 3 continued their unbeaten run – which dates back to September with a 4-2 success over Dingle United.

The Dublin 15 club started brightest and went ahead after some good work in midfield from John Ferns and Jim Kelly who put Dave McDonagh through to slot home.

Dingle equalised within 10 minutes but Verona edged back in front when a long ball from Blaine Brogan found Sean Smith on the left wing. His pin-point ball was met by the oncoming Jason Synnott who thumped a

header into the roof of the net.

The hosts remained on the front foot in the second half in mucky conditions and they increased their lead when Peadar Carton crossed a high ball back across the Dingle goal only for the visiting keeper to fumble and drop into his own net.

Dingle did get another one back and it created a nervous last 20 minutes for Verona until they sealed the deal when Smith latched onto a Synnott pass and smashed it in for all three points.

23 January 2020 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

BOXING: SPANISH BASE GIVING DUBLIN 15 FIGHTER A NEW OUTLOOK ON HIS CAREER

New team and new mindset for Blanch’s Francy Luzoho CELTIC CLASH 10  sport@dublingazette.com

ALMOST A YEAR on from his controversial last fight, Francy Luzoho will return to the ring with a new team and a new mindset.

Last March, the Blanchardstown light welter lost on points to Crumlin’s Martin Quinn at the National Stadium on a big TG4 show – a result which split opinion and is still debated today.

A verdict which hurt Luzoho, the 24-year-old made big changes in the aftermath, relocating his training from Inchicore to Lanzarote, and he returns with a vengeance next month.

Luzoho will next fight on Saturday, February 1 at the Devenish Venue in Belfast on the Celtic Clash 10 bill where he will jump straight back in at the deep end and take on local favourite Stephen Webb in the card’s co-headline bout.

It was never going to be any other way for Luzoho, who saw a similarly tough comeback fight last month fall through at the last minute.

‘The Butcher Boy’ hit the headlines in 2018 following a debut knockout win over tough English-

man Sam Jones and he explains how “there’s no such thing as a routine for me”.

“When I was meant to fight in Lanzarote, my opponent was an unbeaten fighter with three wins.

He pulled out after seeing my record and the people I faced.

“One thing I’ve learned after my last fight is there no such thing as pressure. All you can do is prepare like never before and go out and have fun.

“I’d been feeling like I needed a move for a long time but, after my last fight, I came to terms that I need a change. I needed a new team which resulted in me changing trainers. It’s a new chapter. Let’s call it Chapter 2. I call it a fresh start, but while it’s a new life, new trainer, and new team, it’s the same dream.”

Now training with Dublin former pro Jonathan ‘Thunderbolt’ O’Brien in the Canaries, Luzoho notes how “the relationship between me and Jon has been extremely positive.

“I have a strong feeling that me and him are going a lot further in this game. I just feel like he’s going to bring a lot more out of me, motivate me a lot more and, for the short period we have been together, he’s

gone out above and beyond for me.

That means a lot to me.”

Luzoho says “the move is going to do wonders for me. After living and Tenerife [previously] for over a year, I felt it did wonders for me.

“Just look at my debut it speaks volumes. Then, leading to my second camp in Ireland for my second fight, I didn’t have my greatest camp or performance.

“I still felt I won but I should have been in better form. Look, that’s boxing, it just showed me training in Ireland hasn’t really benefited me much.

“Living here [in Ireland] my whole life, I needed the change and, sure look, at least that way I can get the weight off me faster!”

Celtic Clash 10 is headlined by Irish featherweight champion Eric Donovan and also features appearances from Sam Carroll, Katelynn Phelan, John Joyce, Dominic Donegan, Aaron Gethins, Senan Kelly, Owen O’Neill, debutant Rhys Moran, and Tony McGlynn.

Tickets cost €40 (unreserved) or €55 (ringside) and can be bought from all the boxers on the bill or by ringing 07923 239114 or on Universe.com.

St Mochta’s FAI Inter Cup side prior to their tie with Collinstown

Super Saints into final eight FAI INTERMEDIATE CUP  sport@dublingazette.com

ST MOCHTA’S advanced to the quarter-finals of the FAI Intermediate Cup with a strong 3-1 win over Collinstown last Friday evening.

Goals from Kenny Carr, an own goal and Gareth McCaffrey sent the Saints through. Carr opened the scoring with a superb finish into the corner of the

net on nine minutes.

Chances continued to flow before a Karl Somers strike took a deflection on 40 minutes to double the advantage going into half-time. Gareth McCaffrey fired home his 15th goal of the season following a beautiful ball by Glen Shannon on 65 minutes.

Collinstown reduced the deficit with a superb chip by Paul McMahon on 78 minutes but it was

too late to cause a major impact on the final result.

In the Under-15 SFAI Cup, meanwhile, Mochta’s also shone as they beat Villa 4-1.

Alex McGee opened scoring on sevent minutes with a superb strike into the corner of the net.

Cian Greaves doubled the advantage on 49 minutes with a superb low drive into the bottom corner.

Villa reduced the deficit

with a magnificent strike from Ramsey Miller.

But the Saints put breathing space between the sides when Ryan Brereton’s powerful free kick on 66 minutes beat the impressive Joe Hogan in the Villa goal.

The win was sealed on 75 minutes when Jamie Whelan’s header found the back of the net. The Clonsilla club are through to the last 16 now

Francy Luzoho will make his comeback at Celtic Clash 10. Picture: Ricardo Guglieminotti

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 23 January 2020

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

2

ST BRIGID’S OUR CLUB Dinner Dance takes place in the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown on 14th February, 2020 and tickets are now on sale from Yvonne McCormack (0868548282), Paula Jackson (0872858574) and Elaine Curtin (0872025129). It promises to be a great club night with Aidan Tierney from ‘Tierney Talks’ performing LIVE also!

Our St Brigids *Community of Practice* Coaching Workshops are now open for booking!

Check out our club website for all the details!

Thanks to all those involved in this great initiative.

Our Club Shop is open every Saturday morning from 9.30am to 1pm and is located in our Club Coffee Shop. There will be samples of our new gear to try on as well as Gift Vouchers for sale! Our new Clothing range is also available to view on our Online Shop which is now LIVE on our website! Check it out by visiting our club website! If you have a query on your order please email; stbrigidsgaaclubshop@gmail. com It’s that time of year again! Club Membership for 2020 is now due and must be paid before 31st March, 2020. Please click on the membership link on our website. Thanks to all our members for your continued support.

There was no winner of our Club Lotto Jackpot last week. Our next Jackpot rises to €8,200 and will take place on Thursday week, January 23rd in the Greyhound. Get your tickets from our usual sellers, in the club bar on play online via our club website!

Our Club Nursery, in association with Sherry Fitzgerald continues this Saturday (January 25th) from 9.30am to 11am in Russell Park.

All boys and girls aged between 4 and 6 are welcome, especially new families! Just arrive down and speak to any of our friendly coaches or email us at; Pro.stbrigids.dublin@gaa.ie for more information.

Tickets for the GAA’s National Club Draw are now on sale for €10!

Some brilliant prizes on offer including a brand new Renault Clio! Speak to Jerry Nolan on 0872272518 or Paddy on 0868229312 for tickets and further info! Tickets must be returned

by February 9th.

Juvenile Handball Training, which is open to current and new juvenile players, continues every Wednesday evening at 7pm in Russell Park! We’ll have our Handball Coaches on hand to support all new players and introduce them to the game! Everyone is welcome! Contact Enda on 086 8288308.

All of our Grass Pitches in Russell Park and Collegefort are OFF until further notice. This applies to all team training and to any individual training also.

Please respect our facilities.

Adult Championship Football and Hurling Regrading Form are now available for 2020 Club Championships.

Email: secretary.stbrigids.dublin@gaa.ie for a form which should be left fully completed for Mary O’Connor by Friday, 27/01/2020 in the Club Bar. Keep up with all our news on our website www.stbrigidsgaa.com, our free to download Club App and our Facebook and Twitter pages.

BASKETBALL: ALL-IRELAND CUP FINAL VICTORY IN TALLAGHT

Magical Malahide storm to glorious national win U-16A ALL-IRELAND FINAL Malahide CS 43 St Patrick’s, Cavan 30  sport@dublingazette.com

MALAHIDE Community School put in a stunning second half performance to be crowned Under16A boys All-Ireland Schools Cup champions at the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght on Monday.

Stand out displays from MVP Christian McDonnell, Sean Fitzpatrick and Matthew Poole of Malahide saw them combine for a big 37 points and a strong win.

An extremely close first half saw nothing separating the sides early on. McDonnell and Poole dominated for Malahide, bagging all of their scoring for the quarter.

But good work from St Patrick’s saw Daniel Oyeleye and Ciaran O’Brien net some good scores early, while a big three from Cillian Moran helped keep Malahide in check, leading by just one at the end of the first quarter, 8-7.

The second quarter continued in the same vein as every time Malahide managed to get some breathing room on

Malahide CS celebrate their Under-16A All-Ireland Cup title. Picture: Harry Murphy/Sportsifle

the scoreboard – through scores from McDonnell, Oran Flannery and a great three pointer from Fitzpatrick – St Pat’s stepped up with a reply every time.

Leading 20-18 at halftime, Malahide began to take the reins in the third quarter, though, and put in a huge defensive dis-

COURSE RECORD Portmarnock in world best list PORTMARNOCK Hotel & Golf Links was named 91st in the world’s top 100 golf courses by golfscape this week.

The course was designed by Bernhard Langer and opened in 1995 and was hailed as “a combination of furrowed Irish history and luxury; this classic links course includes all the trademarks of a perfect links course – unpredictable coastal winds, challenging roughs and deep pot bunkers”.

play, keeping St Patrick’s to just three points in the quarter.

At t h e o t h e r e n d , McDonnell bagged the opening six points of the quarter while another big three from Fitzpatrick followed to stretch their lead out.

Two well-taken scores from Poole were followed

by another big three from Fitzpatrick and, despite a well taken score from Oyeleye, Malahide had built up a 36-21 point cushion, outscoring St Patrick’s 16-3 in the period.

St Patrick’s weren’t going down without a fight and a superb final quarter from Arnoldas

Juska kept the game tense and nervy throughout, as he opened the period with four quick points.

Good scoring from Fitzpatrick, McDonnell and Eoin Timmons at the other end managed to keep Malahide out in front and they won out by 13 points.

23 January 2020 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 31

FOOTBALL: KILMACUD MAN WAS ALWAYS SURE CLUXTON WOULD CONTINUE

Paul Mannion at the launch of EirSport’s coverage of the 2020 Allianz Leagues. Picture: Brendan Moran

Mannion excited by Dessie era ALLIANZ FOOTBALL LEAGUE  sport@dublingazette.com

PAUL Mannion is confident Dessie Farrell will make a significant impact coaching an accomplished collection of Dublin footballers.

The group returned to training in earnest last week and while the Kilmacud Crokes man has only had a few direct sessions with the new Dublin manager, he has been impressed by the early phases.

“We met him before heading off on holiday to set goals for the year and expectations - what he expected from us and what we can expect from them,” Mannion said at the launch of Eir Sports Allianz Leagues coverage.

“It was a little introduction to his management philosophy and so forth.

It wasn’t new to all of us given the amount of players that have worked with him before.

“I think he is quite similar to Jim [Gavin] in many ways, he is not coming in to try to tear up the playbook or anything like that.

“He has no notions about himself, he is looking forward to working with us, observing how things have been done, and from there to add things to improve us.

“Every manager is different.I think Dessie even managing from his days with the GPA he is very focused on ensuring that players as people are very well rounded and settled in their lives and happy in their lives outside of the thing.

“I think that has always been important to every team I’ve played on, but

Dessie is particularly passionate about that.

The Dubs get going on Saturday evening at 7.15pm in Croke Park before travelling to Mayo a week later for game two.

And Mannion is raring to go and see how things will work out after five barnstorming years of All-Ireland success.

“It will be new in ways, but, as I said, he knows so many players, he was a brilliant player himself, he has had success and knows what it takes to win an All-Ireland as a player and a manager and I’m sure he’ll learn a lot as the year goes on.

“We’re going to be completely open with him about how we’ve done things, welcome him into the environment and culture and all the things we’ve devel-

oped. I’m looking forward to seeing what he adds of his own. It’s going to be an interesting year.”

Stephen Cluxton will miss most of the league but will return when back from injury and Mannion says that while the goalkeeper’s potential retirement was discussed in the media, he always felt the Parnell’s man would continue on.

“He never said he wasn’t so I just assumed that he was,” Mannion laughs.

“There were no signs that he was ever going to drop off.

“As a man, he is completely driven, hungry for winning more and above all people he cared the least about this five craic.”

“He just wants to go on to play as long as he can and be with us for as long as he can.”

ONE GOOD CLUB: Rowe an ambassador

DUBLIN football star Carla Rowe was on hand to launch Lidl Ireland’s One Good Club initiative, a five-step youth mental health awareness programme for local clubs, developed in partnership with the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) and Jigsaw – the National Centre for Youth Mental Health.

Each step provides participating clubs with a suite of suggested activities, simple enough to complete without a significant time or resource commitment. Activities include connecting with the community by hosting a coffee morning, organising fun ‘get active’ sessions aimed at younger members of the community not involved in sport or introducing meditation and mindfulness as part of the ‘cool down’ after training.

Rowe (pictured, centre, with young fans), a three-time All-Ireland winner, is one of four One Good Club ambassadors along with Galway’s Nicola Ward, Waterford’s Caoimhe McGrath and Donegal’s Emer Gallagher. The programme forms part of Lidl’s €2.1 million investment in the fifth year of partnership with the LGFA. Picture: james crombie/inpho

FOOTBALL

Archer shoots perfect arrow for win in Laois DUBLIN’S Under-20 footballers concluded their John Kerins football development league on a winning note when defeating Laois 2-10 to 1-10 in the Laois Centre of Excellence, Portlaoise on Saturday afternoon.

A late Ciarán Archer goal gave the Dubs victory following a loss to Meath and draw with Kildare in the earlier rounds of the competition.

The blues can now focus fully on their upcoming Leinster U20FC first round clash against Wicklow on Saturday, February 8.

Dublin trailed for long passages of Saturday’s game but goals from the Maurs sharp-shooter Archer at the close of both halves saw them to a dramatic victory.

A Jack Lacey goal had the hosts 1-3 to 0-1 to the good inside ten minutes and Laois kept in front until added time in the opening half when Archer converted from the penalty spot to edge Dublin ahead for the first time since the second minute before the O’Moore County equalised before the interval to make it 1-5 each.

Laois regained the lead on the restart and maintained it throughout the second half, despite being reduced to 14 players following a sending off, until the final minute when Archer struck for his second goal to seal victory for Tom Gray’s side.

Gazette SPORT JANUARY 23-29, 2020

ALL OF YOUR FINGAL SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

JIM’S FREEDOM OF THE CITY FOOTBALL:

Former Dublin boss gets the city’s top honour for his incredible services to the county with five titles in a row SEE P21

NEW OUTLOOK BOXING:

Blanch’s Francy Luzoho facing into Celtic Clash with sunny disposition following his move to Spain. SEE P29

’HIDE’S HOOP DREAMS BASKETBALL:

Malahide Community School storm to All-Ireland Under16A schoolboys title with stunning win at the NBA. SEE P30

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Dub Ladies call-up for Maur’s McGuinness  CÓILÍN DUFFY

cduffy@dublingazette.com

SAINT MAUR’S player Shauna McGuinness has been handed a call-up to the Dublin senior ladies football squad ahead of their Lidl Division 1 League opener against All-Ireland Intermediate champions Tipperary at Ballyboden St Enda’s at 2pm on Sunday.

McGuinness, along with Ballinteer St John’s Niamh Sweeney have been added to the squad following good performances with their clubs, and are getting a taste of inter-county life for the very first time, having not been involved in Dublin squads at any level in the past.

“Ne ither Niamh or S h a u n a h ave b e e n involved in Development squads, but it just shows you the football they have been playing with their clubs,” manager Mick Bohan told Dublin Gazette at the launch of the competition at Lidl Ireland’s HQ in Tallaght this week. “ T h e y h av e b e e n pointed out to us, and they are in with us at the moment and they have been doing very well.

That’s obviously a really healthy situation - that even the message to a 24 or 25-year-old is that you don’t have to have come through the system. That if you perform for the club an opportunity awaits.

“We are hugely appreciative of the work the clubs do, because without them we wouldn’t have

Tipperary’s Aishling Moloney and Dublin’s Carla Rowe at the Lidl Ladies Football League launch this week. Picture: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

“We are hugely appreciative of the work the

clubs do, because without them we wouldn’t have the numbers of players available to us“ the numbers of players available to us, and while the development squads do a really decent job. At the end of the day, clubs are the bedrock of this whole thing, and that will never change.”

The addition of McGuinness and Sweeney to the squad, are two of over 12 changes from the one which won the All-Ireland Senior title for a third year in-arow last September.

St Sylvester’s Nicole Owens continues to be absent through injury, while her club colleague Niamh McEvoy is ruled out for the league due to AFL commitments in Australia along with Foxrock-Cabinteely’s Sinead Goldrick.

Clontarf’s Siobhan Killeen also continues to be on the injured list, while Thomas Davis’s Olwen Carey is taking leave due to study commitments.

However there is more good news than bad, with the return of no fewer than five players to the squad.

Na Fianna’s Leah Caffrey, Sarah McCaffrey of Clontarf, Naomh Barróg’s Laura McGinley, Rebecca McDonnell of Clanna Gael Fontenoy, Ringsend and Dee Murphy of St Brigid’s are all back involved.

Me a nw h i l e, C l a n n Mhuire’s Carla Rowe is looking forward to Sun-

day’s clash with Tipperary.

She says it’s not going to be easy against the Premier County.

“Absolutely, that’s why I wouldn’t be focussing too far ahead of the first game,” she told Dublin Gazette.

“Tipperary are a great side. I suppose you aren’t going to win any Championship, no less an AllIreland Intermediate one without great players, so

they have individual outstanding players, but they also have an excellent allround team, so it should be a great first game and it’s brilliant to see that it’s streamed live.”

Sunday’s match will be broadcast live on the LGFA Facebook Page, with LIDL and the LGFA committed to broadcasting at least one live game per round, while TG4 as usual will show the finals live.