Dublin Gazette: Fingal Edition

DublinGazette JAN 31 - FEB 6, 2019

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RACHEL D’ARCY

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0 that touches loved walking Ireland in the way in months!”

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She said she the most during dementia-relate delighted to do son. friends and “I’m ily She said: ng that away. to do somethi four years this! I wanted of money. a good amount get would

Unsettling

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food, chat with a Clondalkin man heading to Sundance and more in our Magazine SEE PAGE 13

Fingal Edition FREE

THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL AREA

Young scientists

settle in

THREE teams of students from Hansfield Educate Together Secondary School are through to the second round of a competition run by the European Space Agency.

SEE PAGE 3

SPORT

COOLMINE: Irish

rugby star Tom Farrell and Special Olympian Stephen Lee’s incredible intertwined sporting careers SEE P32

travel

VALENTINES IDEAS FOR YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONE... P20

DELIGHT FOR DIANA

T

HE Malahide Musical and Dramatic Society was proud to showcase an amazing array of talent at this year’s Malahide’s Got Talent finals held at The Grand Hotel Malahide last week and sponsored by the Malahide Credit Union. With a phenomenal voice, young opera singer Diana Salop won the judges hearts and took first place. Picture: Alison O’Hanlon

Tenants fearful of mass evictions SYLVIA POWNALL

Find us on Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

FEARS of a mass eviction are mounting in west Dublin after residents of nine apartments in a Castleknock development were given notice to quit.

The shocked tenants in Riverwood Hall, who were paying €1,100 rent a month, now face homelessness as they have little chance of finding an afford-

able alternative.

Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) told Dublin Gazette: “I have been contacted by several other residents who are desperately fearful of what is going to happen to them now.”

Social Democrats local election candidate Aengus O’Maolain warned: “I’d be very concerned that the number nine is the maximum allowed thanks to

the Tyrrelstown legislation - is calculated in order to gradually evict everyone living in Riverwood Hall.”

One resident who asked to remain anonymous said the cheapest alternative they found was almost double the rent, adding: “This feels like home to us now.”

CONTINUES ON PAGE 8

‘They filmed crash rather than help us’

A TEACHER who was on board a bus which crashed into a bridge, injuring several schoolchildren, has hit out at drivers who took photos and videos instead of helping.

Ten of the 36 students from Blakestown Community School in Mulhuddart who were on a school tour were taken to hospital after the accident on Tuesday morning.

They were on their way to visit a local mosque as part of an educational tour when the driver misjudged the height of the overhead bridge at Blakestown Road.

SEE PAGE 4

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 31 January 2019

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HEALTH AND SAFTETY FEARS FOR ST FINIAN’S CC

Wait for school ‘just not good enough’  SYLVIA POWNALL

Mayor of Fingal Anthony Lavin, the council and a wide range of groups are backing Seachtain na Gaeilge

spownall@dublingazette.com

STUDENTS at a secondary school in Swords are being put at risk because of health and safety issues in a dilapidated building which is “no longer fit for purpose”.

Staff and parents have highlighted the conditions at St Finian’s Community College where an extension first promised in 2010 has now been delayed again.

Last week, Senator James Reilly (FG) highlighted the issue in the Seanad and called on Education Minister Joe McHugh to prioritise the project for the sake of the pupils.

He said the school’s board of management had first outlined concerns in 2010 complaining of leaking ceilings, lack of heating and other potential health risks.

FASTNews

Join Seachtain na Gaeilge festivities

The school is so dilapidated that tendrils of ivy are growing inside the building

An extension was sanctioned and the scheme moved through design and planning without a hitch – but as building was due to start it was shelved without explanation.

Senator Reilly, who visited the school earlier this month, said: “I saw

for myself rooms with no natural light, an economics room with cookers in it with only one entrance and exit. That is a fire risk as far as I’m concerned.

“There has been a disgraceful dilapidation of the building in terms of ceilings coming in. There

is a roof collapsing with vegetation growing into the room and down into the corner – and students in 2019 are supposed to learn and study in these conditions?

“It’s just not good enough.”

A post on the school’s Facebook page states: “Our school has been in Swords for more than 60 years and we have been there with our community through the good times and the bad.

“Our building is no longer fit for purpose and it is not acceptable that our extension has been delayed once again. Our students deserve better.”

The Department of Education is now drawing up a design for a new, zeroenergy building. But Senator Reilly said this involves starting the design and planning process again which means St Finian’s goes to the back of the queue.

He said: “That is not fair. They have suffered.

Please don’t ask the staff, students and parents who have supported them to continue to have to exist in these conditions.”

ANYONE interested in having their events for Seachtain na Gaeilge included in Fingal County Council’s programme of events is asked to contact them.

The local authority has a range of events organised by its library services (details in its spring brochure at www.fingal.ie), but would like to hear from any groups who are organising events to celebrate the week.

If you want your event included in the programme, contact Coiste na Gaeilge, Fine Gall at eolas@fingal.ie, or ring Bernie Kelly, Irish Officer, at 01 890 5369 before February 15.

For further information, email eolas@fingal.ie.

Help show your area’s olden days HANSOM cabs and petticoats – and mullets and beatboxes – have all gone the way of the dodo, but we’d love to show and share with readers your photos of your area and community in the rare aul’ times (whether that’s from 1981, 1956, 1923, or whenever).

Dublin has changed an awful lot in just a few decades, and with major changes in our capital’s demographics there are an awful lot of people (not just our beloved culchies) who don’t know what the city and her suburbs used to look like.

That’s why we’re calling on you to help show what your area used to look like, with everyone from readers to historical groups invited to share their shots.

For full details, head over to www.dublingazette.com.

New Blanch school plan ‘advancing’ PLANS for a new community college in Blanchardstown to open in 2020 are advancing according to the Dublin Dun Laoghaire Education Training Board.

The Government announced more than 40 new schools to open by 2022 and a patronage process for Blanchardstown is due to begin shortly.

The 800-student secondary school will cater for a region designated as Blanchardstown village/Blanchardstown west with enrolment due to begin this October.

No site has yet been identified but a spokesperson for DDLETB said they were “taken aback” at the level of support for a publicly-owned and managed facility shown on its ‘expressions of interest’ web page.

“Parents and guardians who wish to support our campaign can do so through this link, http://www.ddletb. ie/post-primary-patronage/,” they added.

31 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

HANSFIELD: THREE TEAMS OF EDUCATE TOGETHER SS PUPILS THROUGH TO ESA COMPETITION

Young scientists hoping for an out of this world victory THREE teams of students from Hansfield Educate Together Secondary School are through to the second round of a competition run by the European Space Agency.

The teams will now represent Ireland in Mission Space Lab, phase two of the Astro Pi competition which tests their science and coding skills and knowledge.

The Hansfied students – three teams consisting of nine junior cycle pupils – will now compete against 281 projects by writing computer programs to be used in space.

Team Dacoria (Eoin Hearns, Izaan Mateen and Alex Oliveri) are designing an experiment to measure the effect of ocean pollution on plankton life.

Project Melaidar (Vimanyu Taneja, Vivek Allampally and Madhu Racherla) are taking images of space, mapping air pollution and using this data to help map holes in the ozone layer.

The Dry Radiators (Daniel Khoruzhyy, Ross Kane and Yash Balasubramanium) are trying to determine if space radiation interferes with data sent to space.

A school spokesperson explained:

“Once they have finished coding their experiments, the experiments will be sent to the International Space Station where they will run for two earth orbits, or three hours.

“The data collected in space will then be sent back to the students on earth where they will analyse it and write a report on their findings. The ten teams that write the best reports will be selected as the Astro Pi Mission Space Lab winners.

“I think Hansfield ETSS can be confident in that they have some budding scientists on their hands.”

Vimanyu Taneja, Yash Balasubramanium and Daniel Khoruzhyy, second year students from Hansfield ETSS who are participating in the Astro Pi competition

Malahide’s own Big Shot on aiming for a Broadway hit

SYLVIA POWNALL

BROADWAY could beckon a rising star of musical theatre whose show will be performed in front of a top American producer in Dublin next month.

Lauryn Gaffney from Malahide returns to The Helix with the awardwinning, Big Shot The Musical, on February 22 – a show she wrote when she was just 21 years old.

Now 26, Lauryn (from Seabury) has invited Tony award-winning Broadway producer Ken Davenport to the performance, and he’s agreed to fly over and check it out.

She told Dublin Gazette: “I don’t know how we managed to get him to come over but he’s coming. Now I’m both nervous and excited all at the same time.

“I’ve put a lot of work into it and hopefully he will see the potential. This is the dream. If it ends up on Broadway that is literally a dream come true.”

Despite her young age, Lauryn has already taken the musical she wrote while based in Boston on a J1 visa on a successful tour of the UK, US and Mexico.

Big Shot tells the story of savvy New York defence lawyer Jeremy Crocker who, despite his ambitions, falls in love

“

Talented Malahide woman Lauryn Gaffney hopes her passion for musicals will soon pay off with a Tony award-winning Broadway producer checking out her awardwinning Big Shot The Musical, at The Helix

I’ve put a lot of work into it. This is the dream. If it ends up on Broadway that is literally a dream come true.”

with struggling Irish artist Carrie who works in his favourite cafe in downtown Manhattan.

The musical features a blend of upbeat tunes and poignant ballads and has won rave reviews from critics, representing Ireland in the San Diego

International Fringe Festival.

Lauryn says music is in her blood and getting the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded creative souls every day does not in any way feel like work to her.

She said: “I always

loved musicals. My dad used to have me watching musicals every weekend – Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Grease, Oliver. Then I progressed onto Les Miserables, but Hamilton is probably my all-time favourite.

“Nowadays there’s so

many genres including Rap, Pop and Rock. And the dancing has progressed, with Hip Hop and gymnastics thrown into the mix.”

Lauryn has also dabbled in the Pop industry, writing an album for a band called GGMK featuring her younger sister, Georgia, and Ronan Keating’s daughter, Missy.

But Friday, February 22, could be the day she gets her big break with a top

US producer watching in the wings as she directs her own stage musical.

Tickets (€20/€22, www. thehelix.ie) are selling fast and Lauryn is determined to showcase her work and make the most of her moment in the spotlight.

She said: “This is so magical, I’m enjoying every second of it. It’s always been my dream and there was no point putting it on the back burner any longer.”

FASTNews All welcome at Toastmasters’ next meeting ADULTS interested in improving their confidence, public speaking and listening skills are invited to Dublin 15 Toastmasters First Birthday meeting in St Mochta’s Parish Pastoral Centre, Porterstown on Wednesday, February 6 from 7.30pm.

There will be a first speech by a new member, a humorous speech and a speech on Alzheimer’s Disease. There will also be jokes, poetry and table topics where everyone can join in.

All are welcome to come along on the night. For further information, contact Tony at 086 822 1274.

Rotary club raffle to be a 2019 highlight THE Rotary Club of Fingal is holding a raffle for a framed and signed Leinster rugby jersey with all proceeds going towards the charities it works with.

The Fingal club celebrates its 40th anniversary this year and a black-tie dinner will take place to mark the occasion on June 14 in the Grand Hotel, Malahide.

Weekly lunches are organised as well as an active social programme, including an annual weekend away, trips to the theatre, ten-pin bowling and much more.

For more information about the raffle, upcoming events or how to join, see the Rotary Club of Dublin Fingal page on Facebook.

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 31 January 2019

FASTNews

SCHOOLS: UNHELPFUL DRIVERS BLASTED BY TEACHERS IN BUS CRASH

‘They filmed crash rather than help us’ SYLVIA POWNALL

FF attacks ‘shocking’ HSE dentistry wait MORE than 9,000 children in the HSE area which serves Fingal are without dental services, it has emerged.

Figures reveal that 37% of primary school children in Dublin north who are eligible for dental assessment are waiting at least 26 weeks.

Fianna Fail Senator Lorraine Clifford-Lee has described the failure to provide paediatric dental services as sheer neglect, adding: “The figures do not even represent the true scale of these waiting lists.

“That’s what most shocking of all. In orthodontics, more than 480 children are waiting for an assessment appointment while 1,168 are waiting for necessary treatment.”

FG calls to Potential reschedule ring road road works for Swords considered ROAD works in Donabate and Portrane should be carried out overnight to avoid any more “traffic chaos” according to Fine Gael local election candidate Bob Dowling.

Mr Dowling called on Fingal County Council to ensure interim works at the railway bridge were done at night time, as is the norm in some other European countries.

He said: “The insistence of the council to carry out these works during the day, especially during school closing hours, is not acceptable.

“This traffic chaos has gone on for long enough.”

He said the stop/go traffic management system had led to tailbacks from Donabate village all the way to Portrane.

dents as he repeated his calls for improved signage to warn drivers.

He said: “This is the same bridge that has had dozens of trucks hit it over the years. I agree that it’s incredible that the drivers of these vehicles can’t see this low bridge … However, I’d rather put another safety measure in place than be proven right that someone is going to crash into it again and possibly

lose their life or someone else’s.”

One parent reported that glass shattered over a number of shocked students, and several were left with bloodied mouths. Another eye witness said the children were screaming ”We won’t make it” just moments before impact.

Blanchardstown Gardai are investigating the crash and are appealing for witnesses or passing drivers who may have dash cam footage.

A garda spokesperson said: “A school bus collided with a bridge. A number of schoolchildren (approximately 10) on board were taken to hospital with what is described as minor injuries.”

Ladies in step to help a pal’s risque but fun new calendar

A DRAFT report outlining options for a ring road in Swords is being considered by the council – but will not be finalised until the MetroLink route has been confirmed.

Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) asked the council for an update on the Swords Western Distributor Road and whether an additional exit at Ridgewood estate could be included.

Fingal County Council stated that “decisions regarding junctions and access points along the emerging preferred route” would be considered as the scheme design progresses.

LEADING Ladies from Calendar Girls The Musical were happy to brave the chill in the air as they helped launch the musical of the same name at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre.

Karen Dunbar, Sara Crowe, Denise Welch, Anna Jane Casey, Ruth Madoc and Rebecca Storm were in step as they launched Tim Firth and Gary Barlow’s new musical, which runs until February 2, and looks certain to draw Fingal’s musical fans in to town for a show to remember.

Based on the hit film – itself based on a true story – Calendar Girls The Musical is inspired by a group of ladies, who following the untimely death of one of their husbands, come up with a unique way to raise funds to help others who are affected by cancer. Picture: Brian McEvoy

Older Skerries people’s housing needs in focus

STYLE, PAGE 22

SYLVIA POWNALL



Winter wear: Wrap up in style as you head off into the great (if chilly) hills

A TEACHER who was on board a bus which crashed into a bridge (right), injuring several schoolchildren, has hit out at drivers who took photos and videos instead of helping.

Ten of the 36 students from Blakestown Community School in Mulhuddart who were on a school tour were taken to hospital after the accident on Tuesday morning.

They were on their way to visit a local mosque as part of an educational tour when the driver misjudged the height of the overhead bridge at Blakestown Road.

As photographs circulated on social media throughout the day, one of the teachers fumed: “I’m glad people think it’s funny.

“I was one of the teachers on the

bus with 36 kids who were injured and upset, and people were more concerned about taking pictures and videos than helping.”

She continued: “We are all fine, thank God; could have been much worse – a few cuts and bumps on the head but nothing serious.”

The incident comes just days after ghouls shared graphic photographs and videos of a fatal crash on the M50 in which one of the victims suffered catastrophic head injuries.

A member of staff at the school confirmed that a number of children had been taken to hospital as a precaution but their injuries were not thought to be serious.

Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) said the low bridge was notorious for acci-

SKERRIES Supported Housing Project (SSHP) has launched what it describes as a “call to action document” to deliver supported accommodation for older people.

Together And Independent sets out its objectives to help ageing home owners who want to downsize to a property more suited to their increasing support needs.

The acting chair of SSHP, Joe O’Brien, said: “We are under no illusions that this is a very ambitious project and we are only at

the early stages.

“We are trying to turn what is a dream for many into a reality and this will take time and persistence.

“But it is clear now that government policy is moving the direction of supporting initiatives such as ours that are trying to develop supported housing for people who may not necessarily be on the social housing list.

“We aim to form a community-based company by the end of June, and we are looking for people with relevant skills and experi-

ence to come on board.”

Cllr Tom O’Leary (FG), who attended the launch, said he and other councillors had voted for three acres in Skerries to be zoned for elderly housing in 2017.

He added: “Ideally I want to see a charityapproved housing body and the Skerries Supported Housing company both developing this site so that we can build at least 50 homes for private citizens and for elderly people on the social housing list. “[This would be a] win-win for all, with a central shared area for socialising.”

31 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 31 January 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Cllr Cathal Boland

John Foley Pictured at Man O’War pub are John Foley, Barney Greene, Maria Greene and Gene Murphy (St Francis Hospice) with friends and supporters. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

Young AJ enjoying the event

Nicky, Grace and Shirley Carvan

Barney and friends raise €10,000 for St Francis Hospice S T FRANCIS Hospice are €10,000 better off this week thanks to the efforts of ace fundraiser Barney Greene and his latest charity tractor run.

This was the 12th annual charity tractor run organised by Barney and his committed band of volunteers and huge credit is due to all involved in the effort.

Catherine Foley and Muriel Farrell

Tom Kiernan and John Moore

31 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 31 January 2019

DUBLIN 15: REPRIEVE (FOR NOW) FOR LINK BY ESTATE AS CLOSURE MULLED OVER FROM P1

‘Premature’ road closure abandoned SYLVIA POWNALL

A PLANNED road closure in Dublin 15 has been temporarily abandoned by the counc il after the National Transport Authority (NTA) raised issues about a bus route.

Fingal County Council had proposed the closure of the R121 at Hollywoodrath estate, between Hollystown and Tyrrel-

stown, which is provided for in the Kilmartin Local Area Plan (LAP).

The council revealed at last week’s Mulhuddart/ Castleknock area meeting that it had received 143 submissions and observations with 87% opposed to the move.

But it said the submission which carried most weight was one from the NTA which requested the

road closure be delayed so it can review the route of the new 40E bus service.

A council official told the meeting that the long-term aim was still to close off part of the route but that the move was “premature” in light of the fact that the 40E bus route had only been introduced late last year.

He added: “The future function of the R121 road

Fears of a mass eviction

Fingal County Council had proposed the closure of the R121 at Hollywoodrath estate – but the proposal drew significant opposition

at Hollywoodrath will be a green route primarily for pedestrians, cyclists and buses with limited access for cars which will be achieved by a cul de sac.

“The LAP does state the creation of a cul de sac; however, I think that the submission from the NTA carries a significant amount of weight in terms of the bus service.

“They say that until a viable alternative is found for the route and stops, that the abandonment [of the road] is premature.

“Accordingly, I’m recommending to the members that we not proceed with the abandonment at this time.”

Residents of Hollywoodrath opposed to the closure had warned it would force heavy traffic

through the estate, putting children at risk.

But some residents, whose houses face the road, say they bought their house on the understanding that the route would be closed off.

Cllr Mary McCamley (Lab) said she was not surprised at the volume of submissions and while she had sympathy for those living along the section of road under consideration, she felt it should not be closed off.

“

She added: “I know the traffic comes very quick and it can be impossible to get out. I would ask for traffic-calming [measures] along the road as soon as possible for the people who live in those houses.

“There were only four buses a day, and now we have a much greater service with the 40E. I don’t think we can lose that either ... I think we have reached a good compromise.”

A council official told the meeting that the long-term aim was still to close off part of the route but that the move was “premature”

Land transfer could create new Tyrrelstown pitches A LONG-AWAITED land transfer has finally gone through, paving the way for the development of new sports pitches and possibly a clubhouse in Tyrrelstown.

Cllr Mary McCamley (Lab) has welcomed news that five acres of land purchased from Hollystown Golf Course has now been transferred to the Dublin County GAA Board.

Cllr McCamley said: “Councillors voted to zone the land residential in the Development Plan but only on the understanding that five acres would be made available by the County Board for a clubhouse and facilities for the local club.

“The club has waited long enough – they are a growing club in a growing population area. They well deserve it,” she said.

Meanwhile, Corduff Sports Centre has received a €150,000 sports capital grant towards the upgrade and extension of the all-weather pitch.

The centre operates under a licence agreement from Fingal County Council which applied for the funding from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport.

The works will bring the all-weather pitch up to FIFA-approved standard and enable Corduff FC to play competitive matches on their home pitch.

Tenants received a letter on behalf of the appointed receiver from Grant Thornton, the administrator of the estate of developer Liam Maye, who died in 2008, giving them between nine and 12 weeks to vacate the properties.

They were given the option of buying the twobed properties for €250,000 each, but the seven-day period granted to indicate their position expired.

Cllr Donnelly said he feared the new owner was breaking the spirit of legislation enacted after an attempted mass eviction of 150 Tyrrelstown tenants in 2016 which caps the number of notices to quit at 10.

He said: “This new owner of these apartments is currently unknown. The fear is that this is another mass eviction because the apartments that have received the notices to quit are numbers 1-10 [one property is vacant].

“We know that a number of apartments were sold several months ago by the same estate agent in the same development.

There are dozens more apartments rented in the same complex.

“I have had contact from a number of other residents who have been desperately trying to get new accommodation but without success.

“The chances of finding anything in that price range are slim to none.”

A spokesperson for administrators Grant Thornton said the notices are compliant with the Tyrrelstown legislation as only nine apartments have been issued termination notices.

Fianna Fail TD Jack Chambers said: “Notices to quit were sent to the residents of nine properties, one short of being bound by law. “ T h i s a c t i o n go e s against the spirit of the laws previously put in place to protect tenants.

31 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

CASTLELANDS: KEY SITE HAS BEEN EARMARKED FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

Masterplan for 1,000 Balbriggan housing units on the way

SYLVIA POWNALL

A MASTERPLAN for the delivery of 1,000 housing units on council-owned lands in Balbriggan is due to be published next month.

A key site in Castlelands is earmarked for residential development along with a second site in Hackettstown, Skerries under the Land Development Agency scheme.

Planning and housing officials from Fingal County Council have had a number of meetings with the LDA about the Balbriggan site,

which could become one of the first in the country to be developed under the initiative.

Director of planning and strategic infrastructure AnnMarie Farrelly said a masterplan would be produced for Castlelands in advance of any building.

She added: “We are moving towards publishing that masterplan in February and this will facilitate 800 to 1,000 units on the site.

“The LDA, I understand, are ready to move on this as one of their first projects. It is

dependent on the delivery of a new road on that land. Preparation of the masterplan is well under way and we will be consulting on that early in 2019.”

Meanwhile, Fingal County Council is overseeing the delivery of housing – a mix of private, social and affordable - on land under its ownership in Donabate, Church Fields in Dublin 15 through its newly-established Project Talamh office.

Ms Farrelly said: “We want to make sure we

deliver the right type of housing and the right facilities such as schools, playing facilities and recreational areas. These key facilities must be delivered in tandem with the housing.

“We will offer a choice of housing type and tenure.”

Fingal County Council is now looking to procure a partner in the private sector to deliver these lands and is hoping to select a preferred bidder this year.

FASTNews

Portmarnock students find out how much fun fitness can be

Six-year Arts plan set to be adopted

AN Arts Plan outlining key objectives for the next six years has been adopted by Fingal County Council with Swords Cultural Quarter central to its implementation.

‘Making Space for Art’ aims to bring arts to the masses through the development of spaces where arts and culture can develop and thrive, such as Swords Cultural Quarter, the development of the Seamus Ennis Arts Centre in The Naul and Draiocht in D15.

The Swords quarter will boast a state-of-the-art library, an arts centre with theatre as well as rehearsal and multi-use spaces.

FITNESS can be fun. That’s according to students at St Marnock’s NS in Portmarnock.

More than 120 pupils from second and third class took part in a ‘Fit Squad’ interactive health and fitness session for children, delivered by Irish fitness expert, Tom Dalton and organised by banana importers Fyffe’s.

Topics covered included an active workout plus talks and tips on healthy eating, all designed to improve children’s general fitness through engaging and fun-filled activities.

Schools and sports clubs interested in participating in the project are asked to visit www. fyffesfitsquad.ie

Lack of interest in ‘backyard log cabins’ disappoints Quinn SYLVIA POWNALL spownall@dublingazette.com

A COUNCILLOR who suggested building log cabins in back gardens to tackle the housing crisis has expressed disappointment at the lack of support for his idea.

Sinn Fein’s Malachy Quinn said the move would have given some “breathing space” to young families so they could remain in their local community and save for a mortgage deposit.

But his motion was voted down by members of the Balbriggan/Swords ward at an area council meeting where councillors expressed concerns over planning and the quality of dwelling proposed.

Cllr Quinn asked that planning laws which currently require that any struc-

ture above 25sqm have permission be reviewed so that families could provide accommodation for relatives facing high rents or homelessness.

He said: “You can apply for planning permission for an extension or granny flat, but they must have direct access to the rest of the house. My motion wanted to include free-standing structures that don’t have to be attached to the main dwelling.

“It would have only been for family members also, which will preclude any potential for exploitation on a commercial basis. I just wanted to give more certainty to families who want to, at some stage, purchase their own home.

“I was hopeful that my follow councillors would welcome an opportunity for young families to remain within the

community where their children attend school at the same time not be at the mercy of the high rents within Fingal.”

Just last week Fingal County Council’s director of housing Margaret Geraghty admitted the local authority faced an “ongoing challenge” in dealing with the housing crisis.

L a te s t f i g u re s show almost 500 families in Fingal are either homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Ms Geraghty said there had been a “relentless focus” last year to try to support people, adding: “The reality is that

“

until there is sufficient housing supply in the system, there is going to be an ongoing challenge in relation to people vulnerable to becoming homeless.”

Fingal County Council is now working to provide a secure tenancy situation for those in the private rented sector in a bid to prevent people losing their homes in the first place.

Meanwhile Cllr Quinn said he has not given up on the log cabin idea. He said: “With many young families coming to my Balbriggan office struggling to afford rents and unable to save for a mortgage it is important that all solutions be looked at.

“I will continue to explore all options.”

I just wanted to give more certainty to families who want to, at some stage, purchase their own home

Credit union assets making housing crisis ‘worse’ THE Government’s failure to tap into the €10billion in assets held by the Credit Union sector is making the housing crisis worse, according to a Fingal TD. Fianna Fail housing spokesperson Darragh O’Brien said the offer to utilise its funds through ‘social good’ investments, first made five years ago, had fallen on deaf ears.

He added: “The Central Bank removed any regulatory obstacle to Credit Unions investing one year ago yet the Government still hasn’t delivered on its promises.

“We are in the middle of housing crisis where the State should be using every tool at its disposal to get more homes built.”

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 31 January 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Ella and Sarah

Ava

Caoimhe and Anna Lina

Evie and Erin. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

Baldoyle Musical Society serve up a treat for kids G IRL Guides from the Portmarnock Ladybirds and Brownies were treated to an afternoon of entertainment at the spectacular performance of Snow White by the Baldoyle Musical Society last week. The spectacle was enhanced by top class staging, effects and amazing performances .

Faye, Olivia and Amy

Lauren and Lainey

Emmy, Eva and Emily

Isobel, Edith and Matilda

31 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Hilda Hegarty and Amanda Kelly

Ronan, Suzanne, Luke and Aoibheann Sherlock and Deirdre Nevin. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

Men’s winner Mick Clohisey

Women’s winner Ann Marie McGlynn

Wayne Doyle and his son

Balbriggan Roadrunners

Julie Carbery, Portmarnock AC

Niamh O’Hanlon, Dave and Cliodna Gilroy

Revelling in the 35th Raheny 5 mile race T

Brenda, Laura and Pauline

Carla Sheppard, Lynn Kavanagh, Liz O’Reilly, Maria Carolan

HERE were plenty of North Dubliners in attendance at the recent 35TH AXA Raheny 5 Mile.

The run was another highly successful event with over 4,600 runners signing up for one of Ireland’s biggest club races.

The Axa Raheny 5 Mile marks the beginning of the season for most runners.

This event attracts both elite runners along with fun runners, joggers and walkers.

This is very much an event for everyone. Nobody wants to miss the Raheny 5 which has turned into a must do event at the start of the year.

The event is noted for elite running, a fantastic atmosphere and the now famous goodie bag that cannot be matched anywhere.

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 31 January 2019

LOVE YOUR DUBLIN: THE BREAKDOWN OF THE BEST WATER ACTIVITIES AROUND DUBLIN

DUBLIN MADE EASY

F

ROM its stunning coastline and beaches to its rivers and canals, Dublin is a bit of a haven for water enthusiasts.

All this water allows us to enjoy the city in many different ways.

With the demand for adventure sports growing in the last decade, the city has b e e n offering more and more places to test your paddling, sailing and surfing skills.

Don’t let the current cold winter weather put you off sampling all Dublin has to offer on water, just make sure you have the right gear!

For unforgettable all year-round fun, we’ve prepared a list of the best water activities in and around Dublin city centre.

BIGSTYLE KITESURFING, PIGEON HOUSE RD

SURFDOCK, RINGSEND SURFDOCK, located on the Grand Canal Dockyard, is one of the city’s leading watersports schools offering a unique combination of activities with a shop for all the equipment to go with it.

They teach paddleboarding, kayaking and windsurfing for beginners in the Grand Canal Dock and offer intermediate paddleboarding classes and trips in and around Dublin as well as intermediate windsurfing in the Malahide Estuary.

They also rent kayaks and paddleboards for use in the Grand Canal Dock or, if you have appropriate transport you can rent them to for a paddle in Dublin Bay.

CITY KAYAKING, CUSTOM HOUSE QUAY

CITY Kayaking Dublin operate from their base at Dublin City Moorings, where the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship is tied up.

Situated in the heart of the city, they are the only operators offering adventure activities on the River Liffey in Dublin city centre.

Explore Dublin’s biggest river, take in some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and see the city from a completely different angle.

The company operates sit-on-top kayaks which are very stable. These kayaks are double seaters which are really safe and easy to use.

KITESURFING involves attaching a board to your feet and a kite to your waist and using the power of the wind to send you out to sea and back again.

Bigstyle kitesurfing is unique because they offer a mobile, affordable and personal experience.

All their instructors are highly trained and their equipment is the most up-to-date available however they still have a personal touch.

They are located at the Pigeon Towers which is a good spot as it is open to the full range of wind direction and it’s shallow enough for students to be safe.

They can even pick you up from the nearest public transportation.

31 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

DUBLIN

THERE’S STILL TIME FOR A PERFECT VALENTINE FIND...

P20

Alcohol-free bar set to open in the city centre P17

MAGAZINE ANOTHER FINE MESS YOU’LL ENJOY P18

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

HERE COME THE GIRLS! LEADING Ladies from Calendar Girls The Musical Ruth Madoc, Rebecca Storm, Sara Crowe, Karen Dunbar, Denise Welsh and Anna Jane Casey are pictured as they touched down at Dublin’s Bord Gaids Energy Theatre ahead of the opening night of The Tim Firth and Gary Barlow’s new musical which runs until February 2.

Tickets from €21.00 are available. For more Information check out www. bordgaisenergytheatre.ie. Picture: Brian McEvoy

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 31 January 2019

FEATURES CHARITY | MUM WALKING COASTS OF IRELAND, UK

A young mum, Sarah (Seana Kerslake) finds the nearby woods casting a malign influence over the new life she’s trying to start with her son in a rural Irish town

Big-hearted Karen Penny is soon to arrive in Ireland, as part of a four-year fundraising walk around Ireland and the UK

Good Penny to roll into town – as part of a four-year walk REBECCA RYAN

A 53-YEAR-OLD mum is on route to Ireland as part of an incredible four-year non-stop coastal trek for charity.

Karen Penny, a former legal professional from Wales, set off from Swansea on January 14 and is walking the entire coast of Ireland and Great Britain, arriving here in Dublin this February, to raise money for dementia research.

She is hoping to be the first woman to complete this route’s continuous walk, covering around 20,000 miles and camping along the way in her tent.

Karen aims to raise £100,000 for Alzheimer’s Research UK, which also supports international research and has previously worked with researchers at Trinity College Dublin.

Dublin Gazette caught up with Karen during her trek and she told us she decided to do the trek for charity as her in-laws both died of dementia-related illnesses.

She said: “I’m delighted to do this! I wanted to do something that would get a good amount of money.

The 53-year-old mum will camp in her tent along the 20,000-mile route

“Both my husband’s parents died from dementia-related illnesses, and it had a massive effect on me. Alzheimer’s is something that touches nearly every family.

“I have always loved walking and have a passion for it. So, I decided to walk the entire coast of Britain and Ireland – a serious challenge, to raise as much money as I could for Alzheimer’s Research UK.” During Karen’s trek, her husband will drive out to her in a campervan to join her every six weeks.

She said she will miss her family and friends the most during the four years away.

Karen said: “When you see people every day it is easy to take them for granted. Now, 12 days into my walk I think about them constantly, especially when I am in my tent at the end of the day and I have time for reflection.”

This will be Karen’s first time in Ireland, and she is excited to arrive as she is already experiencing our warm hospitality.

“I have never been to Ireland.

Since planning this walk, I have received many offers of assistance from all over Ireland and been sent stunning pictures of coastal areas I am to visit.

“Friends are planning their holidays to join me on sections of my walk, and I am excited to be coming to Ireland in February, where I will be for the next eight months!”

Karen is due to arrive in Rosslare on Sunday, February 3.

You can follow Karen’s journey on Facebook at facebook.com/ groups/1790360527648427.

If you would like to support her mammoth fundraising task, you can donate at www.justgiving. com/fundraising/thepennyrollson.

Wholly original Irish film gets prestigious premiere at Sundance RACHEL D’ARCY

in her son (James Quinn Markey) are connected to an ominous sinkhole in

THERE’S an Irish influence at Sundance Film Festival this year, with an Irish-

the forest bordering their home.

Sundance is the largest independent

made film getting its premiere at the

festival in the US, taking place annu-

prestigious US event.

ally in Utah. It’s been the launchpad

Horror movie The Hole in The Ground

for several smash-hit indie movies,

is co-written by Stephen Shields and

including Get Out, Little Miss Sunshine

director Lee Cronin, and features

and the Blair Witch Project.

an all-star Irish cast in the form of

The Irish film movie has already

Seana Kerslake, James Quinn Markey

sparked horror fans’ interest, as well

and Simone Kirby, and is produced by

as critical interest in an Irish film that

Conor Barry and John Keville.

veers off into atypical content.

Speaking to Dublin Gazette ahead of

Shields added: “It’s a bit surreal to

jetting off to the festival in Utah, Clon-

be at Sundance, I’m still not fully sure if

dalkin native Shields said: “Lee [Cronin]

I believe it!

sent me over a script he was working

“The movie got picked up to be

on, and it just gave me so many ideas.

distributed by A24 Entertainment

“I bounced them back off him, and eventually we started collaborating on a project that turned into what is now Hole In The Ground.”

The movie, which began production in 2016 before wrapping up in 2017, revolves around a young woman,

[also a distributor for Lady Bird] in the States, which is huge for us as well.

“They were behind another horror, Hereditary, and that’s done so, so well after premiering at Sundance last year, so I can’t wait for that either.

“We’ve got Wild Card distribution

Sarah O’Neill (Kerslake) who is trying

behind us back in Ireland, and their

to start a new life with her son in a

films always do great, so we’re really

rural town.

excited about the future of the film.”

A terrifying encounter shatters

The Hole in The Ground will be

the security Sarah feels in her home,

released in Irish cinemas on March

spiralling into a nightmare of paranoia

1 and is sure to be a must-see for all

as she tries to uncover if the changes

horror fans and film buffs alike.

Unsettling characters cast a pall over Sarah’s efforts to settle in

31 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 31 January 2019

DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS I N F O R M AT I O N

THINGS TO NOTE IN DUBLIN

Harvey helps!

Heritage House, Dundrum, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240

LINDA Keating (centre), director of fundraising, Marie Keating Foundation is pictured accepting a cheque for €39,663 from senior Harvey Norman staff Aoife O’Daly and Robbie Auckram.

The funds were raised through Harvey Norman’s Sleep Pink campaign, which ran in-store and online, and saw a percentage of Harvey Norman sales of the‘Marie’ mattress donated to the Foundation.

Charitable customers could sleep easy, knowing that those who chose to add a euro to their purchase at the checkout could also help the cause, with Harvey Norman staff also delighted to help fundraise for the Marie Keating Foundation with sponsored walks, runs, bake sales and more.

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

C O N TA C T S Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@dublingazette.com Group Editor: Patrick Finnegan pfinnegan@dublingazette.com Deputy Group Editor: Shane Dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile jmaile@dublingazette.com Picture Editor: Aisling Conway aconway@dublingazette.com Travel Editor: Sylvia Pownall spownall@dublingazette.com Advertising Sales:

01 - 6010240 sales@dublingazette.com

FIND US ON

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

DIARY

A GREAT ‘IDIOT’ FOR THE GAIETY

CALLING both Green Day and musical fans – American Idiot The Musical is set for a limited run soon at the Gaiety Theatre.

Running from March 19- 23, American Idiot tells the story of youthful disillusion and a mistrust of society and government, which has never been more current, particularly with modern parallels in the USA. The musical’s hit songs,

written by Green Day, include Boulevard of Broken Dreams, 21 Guns, Holiday and the blockbuster title track, American Idiot, from Green Day’s 2004 Grammy Award-winning album.

Also included are several songs from Green Day’s 2009 release 21st Century Breakdown. Tickets for the musical are on sale now, priced from €21, available on Ticketmaster.

Step up for the Gaelforce race

JIGSAW and Killary Gaelforce have announced an exclusive charity partnership for the Gaelforce Dublin adventure race, which will take place on Saturday, March 23.

Every person who registers for Gaelforce Dublin 2019 can help support the mental health of young people across Ireland by choosing to donate or fundraise for Jigsaw.

Justin McDermott from the Jigsaw team said: “We are so delighted to be entering into this fantastic partnership with Killary Gaelforce for Gaelforce Dublin 2019.

“We know the positive impact that exercise has on mental wellbeing, and partnering with Killary Gaelforce is a wonderful way to not only raise funds, but also raise awareness of Jigsaw and our work supporting young people’s mental health.”

The race incorporates running, cycling and kayaking. There are two distances to choose from – 49km and 29km. Register to take part at gaelforceevents.com.

A rare chance to catch a Ennio Morricone show LEGENDARY composer Ennio Morricone will bring his live show to the 3Arena on February 15.

Highlights include his scores for Once Upon a Time in the West, One Upon a Time in America, A Fistful of Dollars, The Untouchables and The Mission, to name but a few.

The 3Arena concert is part of his 60 Years of Music world tour and will include Portuguese fado legend Dulce Pontes as a special

guest singer.

This will be Morricone’s last show outside of Italy, after announcing that he is retiring from touring following this run of shows.

The production has been playing to sold-out arenas across the continent, and has received standing ovations and overwhelming critical acclaim in the media.

Tickets are priced from €107, and are available now from Ticketmaster.ie.

LEGO TO THE ARK FOR A FILM COURSE FOR KIDS

Who doesn’t want to be a Lego filmmaker?

MAKE your own Lego movie in this practical workshop with Brick Flicks, which is part of Fantastic Flix at The Ark. Running at the Temple Bar venue from Tuesday, February 19 to Friday, February 22, the workshop gives you all you need to bring your favourite Lego character to life as the star of your film.

With plenty of hands-on learning and

simple demonstrations, you will work in small groups to create a set, storyboard and plan for your movie, which you will then film, edit, and record using iPads.

Tickets are priced €14 -€16, with workshops taking place at 10:30am and 2:30pm. The event is open for kids aged from 8 to 12, with the workshop lasting two and a half hours.

For further information, check out The Ark on Twitter at @thearkdublin.

31 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

TUCK IN TO OUR FOODIE TITBITS

FOOD&DRINK

NIBBLESOFNEWS Don’t use off-the-shelf personal breathalysers, body warns DRINKAWARE have urged members of the public against relying on off-the-shelf personal breathalysers to detect alcohol.

It comes after a sharp rise in queries to the organisation looking to find out more information on such products.

Speaking on the need to address common concerns, Drinkaware’s chief executive, Sheena Horgan, said: “The reality is that these off-the-shelf

breathalysers are not developed using the same medical and safety technology standards as those used by officials such as An Garda Siochana.

“Our advice echoes that of the Road Safety Authority – that we would have serious concerns about the validity of the results.

“While a personal breathalyser can be useful for information purposes, the results should not be taken as a clear

indication that you are under the limit.

“There is still a potential chance that you will be over the limit if stopped at an official garda checkpoint.”

As of last October, ordinary fully licenced drivers detected by An Garda Siochana with a blood alcohol concentration level of between 50mg and 80mg will receive an automatic three-month driving ban and a €200 fine.

Alcohol-free bar set to open in the city centre IRELAND’S first alcohol-free bar is coming to Dublin next month.

The Virgin Mary Bar will open its doors at 54 Capel Street in February. The drinks menu will have a selection of alcohol-free beers, wines and spirits.

Vaughan Yates (founder and creative director of global spirit expert and consultant company 1751) and Oisin Davis (founder of Great Irish Beverage) are behind the new venue.

Speaking to international trade magazine The Spirits Business, Yates said he is excited about The Virgin Mary Bar opening in Dublin.

He said: “Dublin is an incredibly diverse city with an increasingly discerning population, so people are looking for a place where they can sit down with friends and really connect in a lively yet mindful drinking environment.”

According to World Health Organisation figures, alcohol consumption in Ireland has fallen by 25% since 2005.

REBECCA RYAN

A tasty – and alcohol-free – cocktail for the new bar

Oisin said: “If a fellow Dubliner wants to catch up with mates after 4pm in the city but doesn’t want to hang out in a pub, the only options available to them are multinational cafes. We’re really looking forward to changing that and finally giving people an alternative.”

The Virgin Mary Bar will open from 4-11pm. seven days a week from midFebruary.

Do you know how much sugar is in your own daily breakfast?

A NEW survey has revealed that two in three adults does not know how much sugar is in their breakfast.

The Alpro study into breakfast habits of the Irish found that more than 75% of people think that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, with only 4% admitting to not eating breakfast.

Monkstown’s prayers for authentic Italian fare are answered by Attico

The top breakfast choices of the Irish include cereal, tea and toast, fruit and yogurt, eggs and a fully cooked breakfast.

Speaking on the f i n d i n g s, T V co o k , food columnist and mum Yvonne Connolly, campaign ambassador for Alpro, said: “I agree with the 75% of those surveyed

– breakfast really is the most important meal of the day.

As cliched as it sounds, it really does set us up for the day.

“With our busy lives, it’s hard to scan food labels while rushing through the supermarket and keeping track of the sugar content in breakfast products can be tricky.”

IF YOU are looking for authentic Italian modern cuisine, Monkstown has a brand-new restaurant to tickle your taste buds .

Attico opened its doors this year and is perfectly located right in the heart of the quaint seaside town.

When you walk in, you are struck by the décor, which is warm and rustic. The welcome is very warm and friendly, with a relaxed atmosphere.

The menu is well thought out and executed with authentic Italian fare at its heart. Their a la carte menu includes an impressive selection of pasta, risotto and gnocchi dishes as well as a wide range of ‘Secondi’, including lamb, pork and beef.

There are so many interesting fish options that it is hard to pick, and the plates comes out full of creative flair. The offering is upmarket yet welcoming and accessible.

Dublin Gazette caught up with owner Leonard Bujari (41), who comes from a family of Italian and Albanian heritage.

He moved from Italy to

Ireland around 21 years ago, and lives here now with his wife, Donika, and their eight-year-old son ,Lenny.

Leonard always wanted to own his business and he is already the proud owner of a very successful Italian restaurant in Drogheda, called Antica Toscana.

He said: “I grew up with the belief that at some stage of my life I will, and I must, open my own business.

“My move to Ireland coincided with the period when the Irish economy was doing very well and that was a big incentive for me, because I saw Ireland as a country that offered me a great opportunity to grow myself not only academically but professionally as well.”

Speaking on his successful Drogheda restau-

rant, Leonard said: “The pizzeria restaurant in Drogheda has been doing very well, year by year. A vital feature of the restaurant’s successes has been the good food.

“Behind great food there is a great team, and the restaurant is in the hands of great staff who are dedicated and passionate workers about their job.”

Leonard has a huge passion for authentic Italian food. Coming from a traditional Mediterranean family, food has always been central to his family life.

He said: “With simple, fresh and seasonal ingredients, the meals during my childhood arrived on the table directly from the farm.

“I have always had a great passion for authentic Italian food in particular.

“What I appreciate the

most about Italian cuisine is the simplicity of most Italian dishes. For me the key to a delicious dish is the winning combination of simple ingredients, passion and creativity.”

Leonard is excited about his new restaurant in Monkstown, Attico, and is looking forward to treating locals to authentic Italian food.

He said: “While Irish diners have a love affair with Italian food, to understand the real quality of Italian cuisine they need to experience authentic Italian dishes.

“In this way, the customers can understand the connection between authenticity and tradition. This experience in itself gives the customers in return a deeper appreciation for authentic food, tradition and culture.

“Hence, my message to the Irish dinners is you must be willing to go beyond your comfort zone and open up to real, traditional authentic food.”

For a taste of real authentic Italian, Attico is one to try.

For further information, see www.attico.ie.

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 31 January 2019

Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly shine in this Laurel & Hardy biopic

Another fine mess you’ll enjoy IT SEEMS that 2019 isn’t off to a great start, so far, with bitter winds and snow to the south, and all that Brexit madness to the east, as just some examples of looming doom and gloom.

It’s enough to make you yearn for something more upbeat and warm-hearted - so what better time to roll out a review of the recently released Stan & Ollie (cert PG, 98 mins)?

There was something

 SHANE DILLON

of a feeling of art imitating life for this one, as the film - following the legendary duo long past their prime as they embarked on an underwhelming UK and Ireland tour - wasn’t exactly playing to a packed cinema when

QUIKFLIX Streaming highlights on the way

I saw it.

Far from it - perhaps the antics of the fat one and the thin one who were at their best in the 1930s just doesn’t resonate with modern audiences.

If so, that’s a real shame, as the film was a charming nod at once great comics whose public persona saw them portrayed as bumbling oafs, but who had a complex relationship behind all their masterfully crafted slapstick and pratfalls.

Here, in tandem with the main story - Stan and Ollie embarking on an ill-

A ‘Queer Eye’ on Japan CALLING all Fab Five fans – Queer Eye is heading to Japan for a four-episode special, coming to Netflix in 2019.

The cast, which includes Jonathan Van Ness, Tan France, Antoi Porowski, Booby Berk and Karamo Brown, will head to the far east to experience the best that Japan has to offer.

They’ll work with local tastemakers to make-better a new ‘group of heroes’, Netflix says, while also learn and experiencing Japanese cuisine, fashion, design, grooming and culture in the new special.

Fans have reacted excitedly, saying they can’t wait to see the special and

have called for the team to visit other countries across the globe – including Ireland!

It is believed that the special is a standalone from the third season of the cult makeover show, which is also scheduled to hit the streaming service at some point in the year.

fated tour long past their prime - we learn a little about the classic Hollywood studios’ machinations and star treatment, soon learning that the dim-witted duo (on stage, at least) were hamstrung in their efforts to develop new material.

This feeling of two equal halves of a unique comedy partnership having two different sets of restrictions has created a tension that underpins their relationship, even years later, as they embark on the tour.

They soon find that, due

to ineffectual management, their long-awaited big tour is something of a shambles, playing to barely half-full fleapit venues, with the vaudeville icons somewhat relegated as relics.

The tour staggers on, with further tensions arising from their wives, and Ollie’s failing health hanging over matters, as the stresses of trying to complete the tour, get a long-cherished project off the ground, and their interpersonal difficulties all making it anything but fun for them ...

Don’t be me wrong that sounds like a dour, stressful film, but the end, overall result is anything but, as Stan and Ollie presents a charming and, dare I say it, heartwarming tale.

As Ollie, John C Reilly (smothered in prosthetics) is a revelation - even hidden under blubbering amounts of special effects make-up, he creates a startlingly relatable Oliver Hardy.

And as Stan, Ollie’s long-time foil, Steve Coogan effortlessly keeps pace with him, creating

Going Wilde in 2019 A NEW documentary about famed Irish writer Oscar Wilde will tell the story of the ‘Importance of Being Earnest’ author alongside recreations of excerpts from his most famous works.

The documentary, titled ‘The Importance of Being Oscar’, will air on BBC Two and features an all-star cast including Claire Skinner and Freddie Fox. Over 80 minutes, audiences will see works including ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ recreated, while Stephen Fry, Wilde’s

grandson Merlin Holland, and the latest biographer of the Dubliner, Matthew Sturgis, delve into the writer’s glistening career and life in the 1800’s.

Mark Bell, commissioner for BBC Arts, said: “Following Wilde’s brilliant rise and using the work itself, the film gives viewers a new perspective and shines a light on both the man and his inspiration”.

There’s no exact date for release of the documentary just yet, but expect to see it on BBC Two at some point in 2019.

a complex, nuanced Stan Laurel who’s anything but the simpleton he’d played on screen for decades.

Together, it’s a dynamite pairing of actors and characters, breathing fresh life into undeservedly half-forgotten comedy geniuses, with the pair’s tragicomic tale creating one of the most human, affectionate tales you’ll see all this year.

And, as an extra treat, there are plenty of Laurel & Hardy shorts on YouTube, with plenty of funny moments to savour, so check them out too...

31 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

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

ENTERTAINMENT GOINGOUTOUT OF THE

PICK WEEK

JANUARY 31 (THURSDAY)

Going for another bout with their new flow Distance makes the heart grow fonder for grunge-pop Dubliners Bouts WHEN half of your moderately successful, edgy rock band relocates to another country, that would more often than not mean the end of things. But not for Bouts.

The Dublin Grunge-Pop act has made distance a virtue, meeting sporadically for fierce bursts of musical activity, and building new song concepts via a busy WhatsApp group and a sheer drive to continue.

Five years after finding themselves split across borders, the four-piece return with their best work yet – second album, Flow.

Drummer Daniel Flynn recalls: “Barry [Bracken, vocalist] had moved to London in 2014, and then Niall followed over there not long after.

“That kind of meant we weren’t in a position to do any gigs. We recorded some songs before they left.

“It’s been about five years since we last toured. We released an EP [entitled Unlearn] on cas-

 JAMES HENDICOTT

sette in 2016, but didn’t play any shows.

“Barry lives in Amsterdam now. Niall is still in London, but was in Laos for a while. There was a pretty major break on at that stage.”

Guitarist Colin Boylan adds. “We officially decided to do another record a couple of years ago.

“There were four really quite intense sessions to make Flow. The first was in London.

“Then we got a cottage for a few days in Connemara, and wrote about 15 demos, some electronic, some not.

“The last two sessions were done in Dublin over quick weekends.”

Flynn adds: “We had the stuff from the London sessions that myself and Barry and Niall had done, rough sketches of ideas.

“We sent them around, and they floated around in our brain for a while.

“Barry had worked out a few other songs in Amsterdam, and he sent them up. When we all got back together, we had the starting points.”

“There were times when we played the same chorus for an hour, just for Barry to get a melody,” Boylan laughs.

“One we played for a solid hour, Love’s Lost Landing, and we knew it was a single. We were really proud of our last album, but it’s really overwritten, and we can’t really listen to it now.

This worked for us.”

The result is subtle yet accessible. Bouts have always been open about abundant pop-rock influences – Weezer, in particular, but also the likes of Ash and Pavement – but Flow sees them add subtle electronic undertones for the first time.

The band had long insisted that electronic tinges were completely off limits, but time has

changed their approach.

While the synth-melodies still sit around the fringes of their tracks, they add a depth the band previously lacked.

Of the new record, Flynn says: “A lot of it’s about remembering why we wanted to be in a band, what we liked about it.

“It was ‘Let’s enjoy spending time together and see what comes out of it’. It’s called Flow in part because it’s about letting things take their natural course.

“We’ve generally done things all ourselves, so it came naturally.

“It would be nice to have some support sometimes, but we had some delays and product damage and stuff in the past working with a label, and decided to go for our own record label.

“It’s a bit more work, but we’re happy to do it this way. It’s definitely going to be a big month ahead.”

Circling back to the record, Flynn says: “We kind of know what we want now, with regards to tones.

“It’s a good time to come back. There are some people we know from years ago still doing what we’re doing, and loads of really great bands around we haven’t had time to see.

“It’s been a bit of a revival in Dublin. We’re still flying that flag.”

Tears for Fears @ 3Arena, €60+ From ruling the world to setting Live Aid on fire, Tears for Fears were one of the big acts of the 80s. Their current reunion is meant to be going swimmingly...

JANUARY 31 (THURSDAY) Public Service Broadcasting @ Olympia Theatre, €32 Moon Looks On @ Whelan’s, €10 Black Midi @ The Workman’s Club, €12 Charlie Winston @ The Grand Social, €13

FEBRUARY 1 (FRIDAY) Larry Dean @ Whelan’s, €15 Malcolm Middleton @ The Grand Social, €16

FEBRUARY 2 (SATURDAY) The Pale @ Whelan’s, €20 Nicki Bluhm @ Grand Social, €15 Daniel John Paxton @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €5

FEBRUARY 3 (SUNDAY) The Unelectables @ Whelan’s, €14 The Messthetics @ The Grand Social, €17 Featuring members of iconic noise-oiks Fugazi, seeing an act like The Messthetics (below) in a venue the size of the Grand Social has massive appeal to a certain boisterous niche.

FEBRUARY 4 (MONDAY) Bouts’ sophomore album, Flow is out now.

Their album launch takes place at The Underground, Dame Street with Silverbacks and Shrug Life on Saturday, February 2.

Mike Yung @ Whelan’s, €18

FEBRUARY 5 (TUESDAY) Steel Panther @ Vicar Street, €38 Aidan Greene @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €14

FEBRUARY 6 (WEDNESDAY) Steel Panther @ Vicar Street, €38 Jigjam @ Whelan’s, €15

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 31 January 2019

TRAVEL COMMERCIAL CONTENT

DEALS | YOU CAN FIND A LOVELY BREAK AT A GREAT PRICE

Knock €100 off a dream holiday with GoHop.ie great 2019 deals IRISH holiday firm GoHop.ie has just launched a January Pay Day Promo Code, offering consumers €100 off bookings made up to midnight on February 9.

January can be a rather long month for many people financially, so the GoHop.ie promo code will be a welcome incentive for holiday consumers who hold off booking their annual getaway until pay day finally arrives.

The promo code, entitled ESCAPE19, is aimed at incentivising both family and worldwide destinations departing in high season that can often prove more expensive.

A selection of holidays that qualify for the ESCAPE19 promo code include: Lanzarote: August 16, seven nights at the threestar Blue Sea Los Fiscos, Puerto del Carmen, from €2,080 all-inclusive (total price based on two adults and two children).

Algarve: August 6, seven nights at the four-star Club Praia da Oura, Albufeira, from €2,604 all-inclusive (total price based on two adults and two children).

Vietnam: September, nine nights in Hanoi, Hue, Ho Chi Minh from €1,499pp.

Las Vegas & Cancun: September, ten nights featuring three nights in Las Vegas, seven in Cancun, from €2,300pp.

Orlando: June 25, 12 nights at the five-star Grande Villas Resort, Lake Bueno Vista, from €1,105pp.

San Francisco: April 11, five-nights at the four-star Bijou Hotel, from €1,330pp.

All the above prices include return flights from Dublin, all taxes and accommodation as specified. Baggage and transfers are an optional extra; terms and conditions apply.

GoHop.ie is now considered one of the most popular holiday websites in Ireland. Irish-owned and managed, the brand continues to broaden its appeal to holiday consumers, offering great value holidays to suit every budget at some of the best prices on the market, operating flights from Dublin, Cork, Shannon and Knock airports.

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

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

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

There’s still time for a perfect Valentine find

SYLVIA POWNALL

Travel Editor WHETHER you’re doing Valentine’s Day on a shoestring or a luxury no-expense-spared basis, we’ve got all bases covered.

Wellness escapes are all the rage for 2019 and experts Health and Fitness Travel can help whisk the most healthconscious couple to alluring worldwide destinations.

NO EXPENSE SPARED Blow the budget with a holistic retreat for two – from tranquil spas in Italy to unforgettable therapeutic experiences in heavenly Sri Lanka.

Lefay Fusion Fitness is nestled in the countryside in Italy – the land where the word romance was born – and exudes chic Italian charm.

Enjoy an expansive range of fitness activities, from personal training to aqua gym, Tai Chi and yoga.

Wo r k u p a s we a t together then relax in the spa; where she can have a tension-relieving message, and he can enjoy a rejuvenating facial, specifically tailored for men.

You’ll be sure to return home stronger and more revived in yourselves and your relationship.

For the ultimate in luxury romance, treat yourselves to an unforgettable spa experience along the pristine verdant highlands of Sri Lanka.

The Santani Resort & Spa Re-balancing Bliss package allows guests to indulge with a range of soul-lifting treatments for a reboot which boosts fitness levels.

Reconnect with each other and reach a new

Get off the beaten track – literally, with an exciting trip to Karkloof Safari Spa

level of consciousness for a truly bespoke wellness experience.

Recalibrate from headto-toe with group yoga, guided hikes and a calming dip in the saltwater pools for the ultimate Valentine’s experience.

They say the couple that travels together, stays together. This year, up your Valentine’s game with a long-haul spa and

yoga break to Karkloof Safari Spa in South Africa.

A one-of-a-kind romantic oasis awaits you, with an added adventurous element of astonishing wildlife surrounding the 2,000-hectare reserve.

Relax together at the award-winning spa and indulge in a wide range of exotic spa treatments, from uplifting grapefruit

facials to black pepper scrubs.

After a fruitful cleanse, discover the jewels of the African jungle with a fascinating safari game drive and thundering waterfall for memories that will last a lifetime.

Delve into the restaurant’s nutritious and organic cuisine with a backdrop of splendid African sunsets.

31 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

Lefay Fusion Fitness offers the best of Italy’s sweeping views and balmy sunshine, as well as a range of wellness treatments to pamper you and your other half

Clontarf Castle Hotel has an undeniable wow factor for guests, with interiors to match

The grand old Shelbourne needs no introduction, with its superb attention to detail sure to impress

• For prices, advice, guidance and booking, visit www.healthandfitnesstravel.com.

CLOSER TO HOME If you don’t want to blow the budget, you can stay closer to home and still manage to cast a spell on your Valentine at Clontarf Castle Hotel.

Whisk your other half to the Twelfth Century castle and let the fairytale begin as you wander up the leafy avenue to catch your first glimpse of the impressive building.

Chilled champagne and decadent chocolates await you in your room on arrival.

Afterwards, follow the impressive art trail and discuss your favourite pieces over a glass of wine, or perhaps try the wonderful Fusion Afternoon Tea experience, before a relaxed evening dinner.

Whatever the weather, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel’s dramatic setting is softened by its luxurious, cosy interior

The Spellbound Valentine’s package is available from €260PPS (minimum two-night stay required) and includes one dinner, chilled champagne on arrival and chocolates (www.clontarfcastle.ie).

Sticking with the castle theme, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel is the perfect venue for a romantic escape that gets you out of the city.

Spend two nights in a riverside room with fourposter bed, with champagne and chocolates on arrival, and breakfast in bed both mornings.

Dinner for two will be served on one night in the handsome and atmos-

pheric Owenmore Restaurant, the elegant series of rooms overlooking the river, with a remarkable Connemara marble fireplace where the log fire burns brightly.

Relax over lunch in the characterful Fisherman’s Pub, spend time in the great outdoors and fresh Connemara air and explore the many trails and walks at your own pace.

A two-night When You Love Someone break with dinner on one night, and champagne & chocolates on arrival, costs from €295PP (see www.ballynahinch-castle.com, telephone 095 31006).

Dublin’s favourite fivestar hotel is offering an irresistible Valentine’s overnight – Couples Concierge at The Shelbourne.

Your concierge will happily arrange any extra treats and surprises – from oysters and champagne to breakfast in bed or chocolate dipped-strawberries, one of the in-house florists’ gorgeous hand-tied bouquets or a dozen red roses, or your choice of romantic movie to watch in your elegant room.

You might choose to arrange for your significant other to have a deliciously relaxing massage or pampering spa treatment, or one of The

Salon at The Shelbourne’s renowned Hollywood Legends treatments, signature treatments inspired by legendary style icons.

The hotel concierge himself will share his expertise to arrange show tickets, restaurant bookings, carriage rides or anything else that might be on your list. The only limit to the romantic gestures is your imagination ...

Available from February 14 to 17, it costs from €350 B&B per deluxe room, including rose petal turndown, with additional extras at a variety of prices, designed specifically for each couple (see www. theshelbourne.ie).

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 31 January 2019

HOME & STYLE

BeautyBITS Start the New Year on the right foot

TIRED tootsies from all the work outs and hikes you promised yourself you would do in the new year? Or are you getting your dry winter feet ready to hit some tropical destination far, far away from the chilly Irish winter?

Keep your feet in top condition with SVR XERIAL 50 Extreme Foot Cream (Creme Pieds) with 50% Urea which is great for hard-skin, corns and callouses.

This is a foot care that overcomes corns and calluses in seven days and remove the horn without evidence of rebound. This cream utilises 50% urea which enables it to reduce normal and stubborn calluses whilst also working on areas of hands and elbows that have thickened skin. This cream has a non-greasy and non-sticky formula that is specifically formulated for the feet.

It spreads easily and rapidly, and is fragrance free. Apply the Xerial 50 Extreme Foot Cream daily to the affected areas XERIAL 50 Extrême Foot Cream (Crème

FRESH IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME AND WARDROBE

GETTING FIT WITH

KAZ GLOBAL online retailer boohoo.com is delighted to announce its KAZ x FIT althleisure collection with reality television and digital influencer Kaz Crossley, their FIT queen boohoo ambassador.

Encompassing all sizes from 6-16, Kaz’s 24-piece debut collection is active wear mixed with glamour and sass. The collection features crop tops, bralets, tees, shorts, cycling shorts and high waisted leggings. The colour palette oozes earthy tones in khaki, black, blush pinks and skin tone nudes designed to be worn together or to mix and match.

Details include curved paneled high waisted and patchwork leggings along with layered crop tops and racer back latticed vests with transparent paneling. Accompanied with tracksuit hoodyies and relaxed pants, the collection is perfect for everything from yoga to lounging.

The collection will be available to shop from Tuesday 1st January on boohoo.com starting from €12 - €30.

Pieds) is €13 and available in pharmacies nationwide .

Zero to baby-soft skin in just 10 minutes THE Repulp Mask instantly restores comfort giving baby soft skin in 10 minutes and can be used to complement the Repulp Cream.

Repulp Mask re-plumps rehydrates and regenerates deeply to soothe, restore, repair and repulp your skin. Novexpert Hyaluronic Acid Repulp Mask is a moisturizing and nourishing, enhancing elasticity and smoothing mask of the face and neck.

The mask is especially suitable for thin, gaunt and tired skin. An ultra-high concentration of two pure hyaluronic acids give an instant replump effect with immediate “lipo-filling” action.

This is the essential protection for stressed skin: subject to cold, sun, pollution and dryness.

Novexpert’s The Repulp Mask RRP (€33) is available in pharmacies nationwide.

Get those pearly whites SPOTLIGHT WHITENING has launched the latest innovation in its range of quality oral care products. Spotlight White Teeth Wash is an oral care mouthwash with natural antibacterial and whitening properties.

Created by Irish dentists, sisters Lisa and Vanessa Creav-

whitens teeth without causing

en, the mouthwash contains

sensitivity and is alcohol-free.

Irish seaweed which delivers a

Spotlight Whitening White

powerful antibacterial affect

Teeth Wash ( €12.99 ) is avail-

while the active ingredient

able from February 4 from

hydrogen peroxide effectively

pharmacies nationwide.

Looking stylish while hiking? Easy peasy!

Jessica Maile, Style Editor IRELAND is one of the most beautiful places on the planet - well, I think so anyway! This winter, make sure you get out and enjoy the wild countryside. It’s a great way to get exercise and rosy cheeks, not to mention some quality family time or a little one-on-one with Mother Nature!

One of the most important parts of heading outdoors is having the right gear to keep warm and safe. No need to search and scramble for the right jacket or boots because Regatta Great Outdoors have got you covered. With a modern and sophisticated look, Regatta Great Outdoors hiking gear offers warmth and protection for everyone in the family.

Regatta Great Outdoors delivers affordable hiking gear that carries a selection of outerwear, base layers (for extra warmth) walking boots and accessories. Key pieces include the Azuma II jacket , the Kids Trailspace II walking boots and The Beru Overhead base layer top.

Regatta Great Outdoors has 21 stores nationwide or you can shop online at www.regatta.ie

Kids Trailspace II walking boots, €32 Beru in Rock Grey and Seal Grey, €56 Azuma II in Black, €60

31 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!

CODEWORDS

You could advertise here

PUZZLES

SUDOKU EASY

MODERATE

SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

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

WORD SEARCH

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

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

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

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

Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

FIND THE HIDDEN WORDS ALPS AQUARIA ATLAS BAGGED BETRAY FLORENCE GRIT GRUNTS HIJACK INSULAR JOHNNY KIWI LIME

PARAMOUNT PICK PLATFORM PRODDED RESERVE RORY RUBEN SALOMON SEAWALL SETTLE UPAND WANTAGE

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

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 31 January 2019

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31 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

SOCCER P28

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

OLYMPIC SPIRIT:

RUGBY: IT’S been a proud few weeks for Coolmine RFC as they Ashbrook club have seen their first Olympian followed up by their first player called up to the senior Ireland rugby team.the Six Nations.

Perhaps the most distinguished sporting feat by a club member won’t come on a rugby field but on the basketball courts of Abu Dhabi.



GAZETTE

BASKETBALL P29

PAGE 28

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS SOCCER | CUMISKEY WELCOMES GROWING INTEREST IN FORMAT

Walking football’s Festival fever  sport@dublingazette.com

WALKING football remains a minority pursuit in Ireland but a growing number of people are finding the modified form of the game the perfect way to stay fit and happy and to forge friendships.

Paul Cumiskey arranges games for teams made up mainly of people between 50 and 80 around Dublin, and he estimates around a hundred people play the game regularly.

He’s seen a notable increase since the turn of the year, having had to cancel a number of games before Christmas due to lack of interest.

Whether it’s new year’s resolutions or the enthusiasm of entering into a new year with a fresh slate, it’s an encouraging development for Cumiskey ahead of February’s Walking Football Festival.

The authorities have been enthusiastic in their support, with both Dublin City Council and the FAI backing initiatives to get people back into sport in their retirement years.

Next Wednesday sees the National Training Centre in Abbotstown host the Walking Football Festival (kick-

off 11am), bringing together teams from Dublin and beyond in one place.

“We’re trying to get a few of the lads who are playing in different places to come up on the same day and we’ll have a tournament between us,” Cumiskey tells the Dublin Gazette.

“We have less than a hundred [players in Dublin] at the moment, but it’s down to people not knowing about it. When I say the phrase walking football to people, it’s the first they’ve heard of it.

“I say to men who come up to me – it’s open to women as well – that you can go home and tell people you played a football match today.

“And they did, because it’s a football match for their age with no sprightly youngfella flying around the pitch. It’s a level playing field.

Somebody in their 70s can play against me, who’s 54.

The social element of walking football is equally as important as the health benefits, especially for people living on their own.

“This is probably between someone getting out of bed in the morning and not. There’s guys coming down at half 11 on a Wednesday and

Paul Cumiskey with Kevin Kilbane and John Giles

they’re sprightly.

“Whereas you can go down to them on a Thursday and they probably don’t even move out of the house.

In most of the places we try to get the lads to sit down and have tea and biscuits after it.

“Lads open up and, because the common denominator is already there, they’ll talk about the football

that was on at the weekend, or the Ireland team.

“This could be two people who’d passed each other in the street the day before because they didn’t know they had that common denominator.”

To get involved in walking football, call or text Paul Cumiskey on 0863371799.

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 31 January 2019

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

1

SOCCER: BALBRIGGAN SIDE BATTLE TO VICTORY OVER TEK Glebe North’s LSL Sunday Senior 1 side

FINGALLIANS OUR annual awards took place in the club on Saturday. It was a super night with a big crowd filling the main hall among the winners on the night were: Conor Grimes (Senior Football Player of the Year),Paddy Brady (Junior 1 Player of the Year),Ciaran Fitzgerald (Junior 2 Player of the Year),Conor Kelly (Minor Football Player of the Year ),Kieran Cawley (Social Football Player of The Year),Niamh Rickard (Senior Ladies Footballer of The Year ),Sarah Howard ( Junior Ladies Footballer of the Year),Oral Keeling (Minor Ladies Footballer of The Year ),Natasha Guilshenan (Minor B Ladies Footballer of The Year),Orlagh Leonard (Gaelic 4 Mothers Player of the Year ),Alex Smith (Inter Hurler of the Year),Stuart Mc Neill (Junior Hurler of The Year ),Jamie Connell (Minor Hurler of The Year ),Colm Crowley (Hall Of Fame ) and Joe Murphy (Club Person of the Year).

Great to see the Senior Football Team turning out to pay tribute to Wayne Knight and Leon Knight who stepped down as senior managers.

Well done to all involved in the night.

U-16 team: Great team building with the U-16 team on Saturday last ,the lads learned the hard way what life in the Army is like in the Curragh Camp , great idea for getting a team to work together and get wet and dirty at the same time.

The annual membership is now due , the club have introduced two new methods of payment: one is an App for Smart Phones called Myclubfinance and can be found on Android and Apple App stores; when you open the App look for Fingallians in the Club search also its a great way to play the club Lotto on line as you can play the same numbers for given amount of weeks.The other method is in the Desktop log on to https://clubforce.com and follow the same process as the App. We are trying to get members to pay online more so than the Bar. The Lotto numbers for last week were 5, 17, 18, 31, 32. There was one winner: Brendan Delaney .

Next week’s jackpot is €2,298. Try playing online through the club force website you can play multiple weeks from the comfort of your armchair.

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

GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN NEW season just three weeks away for Inters and Juniors and training continues under Jack Sheedy and his team with slots in Westmanstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm and on Saturday mornings in the Garda Ground at 10am.

Cead Mile Failte to all those who have joined us for the new season and we are open to all from nursery to adult at Westmanstown.

Club membership is now due and all players from juvenile to adult must be fully paid up members before playing in order to comply with insurance requirements.

Payment can be made

online at https://payments. gardawestmanstowngaels. com./registration or Garda members can sign the weekly deduction form available from team mentors.

On other money matters, please return all tickets and cash for National Club Draw to Paul Curtis immediately.

Details re New York trip for Tom Langan Cup in October will be circulated shortly and all fully paid up club members will be eligible to participate.

Any club member interested in doing basic referees course contact Kevin Doherty at 087 2754075.

Glebe’s Gary’s 90-minute challenge for his charges LSL SUNDAY SENIOR 1 Glebe North TEK United  DAVE DONNELLY sport@dublingazette.com

4 2

GLEBE North manager Gary McCormack challenged his team to perform for 90 minutes as they face into a hectic fixture schedule beginning with their FAI Intemediate Cup tie in Midleton on Saturday.

The Balbriggan side were twice ahead when the sides met at Market Green two weeks ago and twice the Cork side managed to peg them back to set up a replay for which Midleton will be favourites.

And McCormack must have felt a sense of déja vu when a similar pattern looked to be developing at the same venue on Monday night.

Glebe led 1-0 at the break thanks to Chris Pollis, but they sat back and were punished when Josh Adams equalised shortly after the break.

A brace from Adam Foley and one from Ian Devine got them over the line in the end, but only after Brian Horgan had reduced the deficit back to a goal in the final quarter.

“When we play a team below, sometimes we take the lead and then let them back into the

game,” McCormack told the Dublin Gazette.

“We think it’s too easy. The better opposition, the better we play, because we know we have to be on it.

“I’d say it has a bit to do with tiredness and fatigue as well. They’re playing three games a week, which is hard enough for Premiership players. You can’t play at a high-intensity every game. “ I d o n’t t h i n k we played well, but if you score four goals and you’re winning, and not playing well, you’re doing something right.”

The hosts took the lead midway through the first

half when Pollis was picked out from a corner on the edge of the box, and he found the bottom corner with a half-volley.

The visitors dominated from there and got their equaliser inside ten minutes as Adams’ deflected shot crept into the net.

Foley put the finishing touch on a flowing passing move and Devine, a new signing from Newfoundwell, tapped into an empty net after Andy Haran had hit the post.

A sliced clearance from goalkeeper Alan O’Connor allowed Horgan to finish into an empty net to reduce the deficit to one, but Foley settled the nerves with

the goal of the game late on.

McCormack, who debuted Reece Weldon after signing from Skerries Town while Rory O’Connor has left for Drumcondra, knows an improved performance is needed in Cork.

“We only have ourselves to blame we’re actually going to Cork.

That’s exactly what I’m talking about. We went 1-0 up and just sat back.

“They raised the ir game as well – they’re a good side.

“The top few teams in that league would be as good as what’s in the top of the Leinster Senior League.”

Frawley continues his rise

SKERRIES man Ciaran Frawley continued to add to his out-half game time with Leinster first team as he kicked seven points in their 22-17 win over Scarlets at the RDS. He was charged to be the controller on Friday evening with most of the current frontliners with the Irish senior setup in anticipation of the Six Nations which gets underway next weekend.

Frawley landed a penalty on the half hour before centre Rory O’Loughlin’s try just before Ciaran Frawley lands one of his kicks against the Scarlets. Picture: PauL Lundy the break was supplemented by another kick

from the Skerries graduate.

Kieran Hardy’s converted score closed the gap to three points and then Dan Jones booted Scarlets level on the hour mark.

But well-taken tries from wingers Lowe (68 minutes) and Barry Daly (71) put Leinster back in control until Hardy completed his brace, setting up a nervy but scoreless final seven minutes. Indeed, the Welsh club almost burst through in the final play but a loose pass in the final play fell to nobody and Leinster survived to extend their lead at the top of Conference B.

31 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

BASKETBALL: TYRELLSTOWN SCHOOL WIN ALL-IRELAND TITLE WITH STUNNING LATE THREE

Valenzuela and Miah set up stunning Le Cheile victory SUBWAY UNDER-16C BOYS SCHOOLS FINAL Le Cheile, Tyrrelstown Mount Saint Michael  sport@dublingazette.com

50 47

LE CHEILE, Tyrrelstown won an Under-16 C Boys Subway Schools Cup final thriller at the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght as Mount St Michael battled right down to the wire.

In the end, Nabil Miah’s huge three-pointer took the laurels for the Dubliners in dramatic style.

The Cork side got the better of the early exchanges, edging an early 12-18 lead by the end of the first quarter thanks to solid shooting from Peader O’Rourke and Conor Twomey.

Good work at the other end from Le Cheile’s MVP Bryan Valenzuela and Renso Guilalas kept their scoring ticking over as they took a bit longer to settle into the game.

A fast paced second quarter followed with brilliant shooting at both ends of the floor. Again, it was Valenzuela and Guilalas who dominated for Le Cheile and, as the quarter ticked down, Reece-Okic chipped in with some big scores for the Dubliners.

Twomey, O’Rourke and Michael Maguire were on song for Mount St Michael, though, at the other end to see them head into the half time break with a 25-32 point cushion.

The longer the game went on though, the more Tyrrelstown settled, and a thrilling third quarter followed with Miah, Richard Osuagwu, Valenzuela and Guilalas upping the intensity for Le Cheile.

It soon paid off as, with just over two minutes to play, it was back to a two-point game with the Dubliners trailing 36-38.

The closing minute and a half of the quarter was frantic, with Mount St Michael pulling out all the stops to widen the gap once more and vital scores from Maguire, Twomey and O’Rourke.

It saw them into the fourth quarter with the lead stretched out once more, 38-45.

Again, it was the never say die attitude of Le Cheile that had them straight back into the mix by the midway point as, trailing by seven, Miah had other ideas.

He stepped up with a huge three-pointer to close the gap back to four, while MVP Valenzuela pulled off a number of defensive stops and caused turnovers to send Miah to the basket once more for Le Cheile.

The cool head of Valenzuela tied the game up as he slotted home his two free throws in style with just over two minutes to play and despite a massive push from St Michael’s, it was Miah who had the last say.

A big stop by Valenzuela sent Le Cheile on the offensive again, and he linked up with Miah who slotted home a gigantic three-pointer and they held on to win by that margin, 50-47.

Paschal Henchy, Portrane chairman, Lou and Pat McCann with the new “McCann Cup” and Adrian Henchy

Portrane welcome McCann Cup INDOOR HOCKEY

 sport@dublingazette.com

PORTRANE Hockey Club played host to the Tommy O’Sullivan Perpetual Cup and the newly inaugurated McCann Cup over the last month.

The four weekends of competition at Donabate Leisure Centre represents some of the key events for Portrane in what is their centenary season.

The two competitions, run concurrently and bring

together the best underage indoor hockey talent from around the province with Three Rock Rovers winning the boys O’Sullivan Cup while Monkstown took the girls McCann Cup. For club development officer Adrian Henchy, it was another proud moment in the club’s illustrious history.

“As a club, we are immensely proud of our standing within Leinster hockey in our centenary year and the previous

cups we have established notably The Neville Cup, Eugene Mulligan Cup and the Tommy O Sullivan Cup,” he said after the event.

“It was a very special day for the McCann family and the Neville family, both of whom are wonderful examples of what are the very best qualities and characteristics of Portrane, Leinster and Irish hockey.”

The McCann family have a 50-year association with the club and Henchy

said it was fitting to see them lend their name to the new cup.

“Mark and Matthew McCann represented both Leinster and Ireland at underage level. It is wonderful today to see both Matthew and Mark continue their love for Portrane Hockey Club where Mark through his company Oliver Marketing has been our main sponsor over many years and Matthew is a top class coach within our underage structure.”

Le Cheile celebrate their success; below, MVP Brandon Valenzuela. Picture: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  FINGAL 31 January 2019

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

2

NAOMH PEREGRINE THERE was a huge buzz around the Clubhouse on Saturday as we launched “The CNP Penguins”. This is the new name for our nursery and academy kids!

For anyone who hasn’t checked out their official logo, it is a must see.

The CNP Penguins are the foundation of our Club and despite being the youngest members they make up the age difference with their sheer quantity every week attending training sessions in football, camogie and hurling.

The CNP Penguins were joined by some of our well-known Dublin panel players for training and skills in the Main Hall.

Huge thanks to 65 Hurls who attended the event with a vast display of equipment including the finest Handcrafted Ash Hurls available on the market. Check out their full range on 65hurls.com We also had the wonderful people of Get Fresh located in Laurel Lodge, who supplied healthy fruit and snacks on the day!

After a tough training session, the CNP Penguins made light work of the refreshments. As always thank you to all our volunteers who made the day special for the mighty CNP Penguins! If you have a Penguin in the making bring them down to join in the fun, make new friends and learn new skills. There was no winner of this weeks 10k lotto jackpot! Numbers drawn: 12, 16, 22 & 25. The jackpot will roll over and fingers crossed next week, it could be you!!!

SKERRIES HARPS

SKERRIES Harps annual membership fees are now due and are available for renewal online at www.skerriesharps.ie/club-membership.

All Players (Adult & Juvenile) must have membership and injury fund fees paid up to date before commencement of the 2019 season.

Club Registrar Peter Farmer will host another Membership open afternoon next Sunday 3rd Feb 2.30-4.30pm in the Clubhouse , pop down and get your membership sorted in no time.

Upcoming Events /Diary Dates.

FRI 22 FEB : Junior disco 8pm -11pm in aid of our Feile Fundraiser 2019. Contact team mentors for details SAT 2ND MARCH : Annual Cheltenham Preview Night in the Clubhouse. 8PM TILL

LATE! Great line up of experts on our panel , contact Fergal 086 8984657 for more info.

FRI 8TH MARCH: Annual Skerries Harps Fashion Show 8pm. Contact Denise on 087 2843590 to order tickets for this highly anticipated night on the Club calendar!

FRI 15TH MARCH: Race Night fundraiser in aid of Feile 2019. Always a great night , more details to follow!

SAT 1ST June : Elvis Spectacular at the Harps ! Save the date in your diary a night not to be missed !

Skerries Harps Golf Society (SHAGS) 2019 Outings as follows: FRI 10th MAY - Balbriggan Golf Club; FRI 14th JUNE - Swords Open GC; FRI 16th AUG - Lisburn Golf Club; FRI 13th SEP - Captain’s Day Skerries GC.

ST FINIAN’S CLUB Membership for 2019 is now due. You can pay your membership online through our website or in the Club Office. If you are paying online, you have an option to spread the payments over 3 months. All 2019 membership must be paid by the end of February.

To facilitate everyone, we will be holding an Open Day on Saturday 2nd February in the Clubhouse Coffee Shop and membership registrations can be taken on the day.

YOUR CLUB, YOUR VOICE!. St. Finians is developing a three-year Strategic Plan and are hosting a Planning Workshop at Roganstown Hotel on February 7, 2019 at 7.15pm. We are hoping that all members, parents, coaches, ex-members, local community partners will attend. This workshop is to give everyone in the Club and Community their say in our future. Topics on the night to include coaching & games developments, communications, facilities development etc. This meeting is open to everyone and we look forward to seeing you all there.

Our Adult hurling and football teams are back in full swing in their preparations for the 2019 playing season. Any new players are welcome to join.

Please contact the Club for details of the Team Managers.

GAA NATIONAL CLUB DRAW 2019 is now an annual event following its success over the past 5 years, in which over €6million has been raised by Clubs.

The sole purpose of the draw is to assist Clubs to raise much needed funds to aid in the development and promotion of our games. This is an excellent opportunity for our club to raise up to €20,000.

This year, all monies raised by the juvenile teams will be staying with that particular team and used for equipment for that individual team! All prizes provided by Ard Chomhairle. Tickets available from the Club house or all Team Managers / Coaches.

ATHLETICS: SHAMROCK MAN WINS HOME RACE

Clohisey a popular Raheny 5 winner  sport@dublingazette.com

MICK Clohisey proved a popular home winner of the AXA Raheny 5 mile as he landed the 2019 edition with a dramatic turn of pace over the final 500 metres.

Clohisey led home 5,000 competitors as they race continues its status as the greatest road race in the country, the Raheny Shamrock man claiming his second AXA Raheny 5 crown.

Clohisey was pushed all the way by DSD’s Matthew Bergin and Carrick’s Yared Derese before making a burst for home with 500 metres remaining.

Clohisey winning out in 23:26, nine seconds clear of Bergin.

There was comfort for Bergin, though, as his Dundrum South Dublin team ended up winning the men’s team title as part of a double with their female counterparts.

In addition to Bergin’s second place, five DSD men were in the top after the first mile. Hiko Tonosa faded to sixth place as his recent ‘flu took its toll.

Robert Corbally played a captain’s part finishing

Raheny Shamrock’s Mick Clohisey crossing the line. Picture: Deryck Vincent

in 10th place with Mark Molloy (18th) completing the D.S.D. winning team. Raheny finished second with Clonliffe third.

Letterkenny’s Ann Marie McGlynn retained the women’s title, winning out in 25:59 with Emma Mitchell taking silver in 26:38. Breege Connolly took third place in 26:55.

THROWING WEIGHTS Fins’ Torsney finishes second in Athlone FINGALLIANS’ Anne-Marie Torsney finished second at last weekend’s Irish Life Health National Indoor Junior and Under23 championships in Athlone in the weight for distance competition.

She threw the 28lb weigh 4.69 metres in the first round of a consistent series of throws. Swinford’s Michaela Walsh took first place with her second round throw of 5.46 metres.

It was the first edition of the new throwing event on the Irish calendar with competitors tossing a ball attached to a metal handle.

Picture: sam barnes / SPORTSFILE

For DSD, Linda Byrne was first home in fifth place with Meghan Ryan seventh and Amy Moran 13th.

Five juvenile races took place before the main races with over 500 competitors taking part in distances from 400 metres to a mile.

There were plenty of local winners. In the 1 mile for boys, Rahe-

ny Shamrock’s James Hyland and Adam Condon finished first and second with Donore Harriers’ Sean Kinsella third.

Donore’s Honor Lynch was first home in the girls mile. Clonliffe Harriers’ Sorcha O’Connor took victory in the 800m for girls while Brothers Pearse’ Aoibheann Nic Mathuna was the victor in the 400m.

31 January 2019 FINGAL  DUBLIN GAZETTE 31

CAMOGIE: BROWNE’S CHARGES UNABLE TO BUILD ON SUPER FIRST HALF Naomh Mearnog’s Aoibhe Dillon. Picture: ilivephotos.com

Fresh-faced Dublin caught cold by Cats NATIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 1 GROUP 1 Kilkenny Dublin  sport@dublingazette.com

1-15 0-6

DUBLIN’S new look side could not convert an excellent first half performance into an opening victory as Frank Browne’s managerial reign came unstuck in Callan in the second half.

He introduced 12 new players to the squad with many stepping up from last year’s minors and Junior Premier side.

Skerries Harps’ Alix Buckley and Naomh Mearnog’s Aoibhe Dillon were among the newcomers as the side looks to develop for the year ahead.

Dillon joined fellow Portmarnockbased player Laura Twomey in the panel.

And the fresh-faced side had a great first half, hooking, blocking, tracking back, no blade of grass was left uncovered.

Ali Maguire, the free taker, had two wides before the nerves were settled in the first six minutes and after that she slotted two frees over the bar.

Her St Vincent’s club mate Aisling Maher scored two points from play.

All Star nominee Siobhan Kehoe also scored a lovely point from play in the

ninth minute and popped over a free just before the half time whistle blew.

During this time, they won most of the rucks and 50/50 balls. Emma O’Byrne, Eve O’Brien and debutante Orla Gray - on debut - were hunting in packs and clearing the line.

In the half back line, Dee Johnstone – who won an All Ireland medal with the Premier Juniors last year – showed class alongside the gifted vice captain Aisling Carolan and long striker Grainne Quinn who delivered some great ball into the forwards.

Midfield was the duo of captain Roisin Baker and Alex Griffin who had a great game.

The half forward line was the hard working Emma Flanagan, the experienced Ali Maguire and Sinead Wylde another debutante for the Seniors.

The forward line featured the third starting debutante Evelyn Twomey alongside All Star Maher and the fearless Siobhan Kehoe.

It all filtered into a 0-6 to 0-5 lead at the break.

The momentum, though, stalled in the second half and Kilkenny soon took over when Denise Gaule was moved from the forwards and left to roam.

Within the first seven minutes, Kilk-

enny had scored three points.

Dublin’s forwards were starved of ball and moved out to try get some action but Kilkenny waited patiently and drove the ball back down the field.

They edged 0-8 to 0-6 in front with the game very much live through a scoreless 12 minute spell.

The next score was crucial in the momentum of the tie and Danielle Morrissey got it for Kilkenny from a free.

And a sloppy goal from Katie Nolan in the 29th minute took away any dreams Dublin had of pulling back into the game.

St Vincent’s Ali Maguire eyes a pass into the forwards. Picture: ilivephotos.com

HURLING

Burke and Dillon lead way for Dubs NA FIANNA’S Donal Burke and Naomh Fionnbarra’s Eamon Dillon both struck second half goals to see Dublin overcome the challenge of Carlow 3-15 to 0-18 in difficult conditions at Parnell Park last Saturday evening in National Hurling League Division 1B. The Dubs trailed by two points at the break, 1-6 to 0-11, but restarted with intent with points from Fiontan McGibb and sub Donal Burke.

Donal Burke’s impact on the second-half was telling as he tallied 1-4 from play while fellow sub Danny Sutcliffe also played a leading role in several key scores during the second period.

Dillon’s goal in the fourth minute of the second-half added to Dublin’s momentum and when he pointed in the 43rd minute, after brilliantly controlling the sliotar, Mattie Kenny’s side were 2-9 to 0-11 clear.

The Dubs were the stronger team after the change of ends and would have won more comfortably but for the goalkeeping heroics of Carlow’s Brian Treacy who produced impressive saves to deny Eamon Dillon and McGibb at different stages of the half.

Donal Burke did get Dublin’s third goal seven minutes from the end of normal time.

“Everyone is aware now that for a lot of the guys out there, it was their third game in six days.

“But in fairness to the guys, they stepped it up in the second half,” Kenny said aftewards.

GazetteSPORT JAN 31 - FEB 6, 2019

ALL OF YOUR FINGAL SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

LE CHEILE’S ALL IRELAND BASKETBALL:

Tyrrelstown school win schools title with MVP Valenzuela producing a star performance SEE P29

FRESH SQUAD CAMOGIE: Naomh Mearnog and Skerries players link up with new-look Dublin county panel for Kilkenny tie SEE P31

GLEBE’S 90 CHALLENGE SOCCER: Balbrig-

gan club take the points despite manager’s call for fuller performance as big games start to come thick and fast.

SEE P28

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Coolmine roots crucial for stars Lee and Farrell  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

IT’S been a proud few weeks for Coolmine RFC as the Ashbrook club have seen their first Olympian followed up by their first player called up to the senior Ireland rugby team.

The club’s progress on the field has seen clubman David Hawkshaw named Ireland under-20s captain, while Connacht centre Tom Farrell was named in Joe Schmidt’s panel for the Six Nations.

Perhaps the most distinguished sporting feat by a club member won’t come on a rugby field, however, but on the basketball courts of Abu Dhabi.

Stephen Lee, from Ashington, just off the Navan Road, has been selected to represent Ireland in basketball at the Special Olympics in the emirates in March.

Lee, who turns 26 on Sunday, was part of the Eastern Region (Dublin and surrounding areas) side that won gold at the national games at the National Sports Campus in June.

He’s a passionate supporter of Coolmine and Leinster Rugby, and is able to don the colours of his club as part of the Coolmine Pumas inclusive tag rugby team, coached by his sister Jennifer.

Stephen wasn’t immediately guaranteed a spot with Team Ireland, as the panel was selected by a draw between the gold

Irish rugby star Tom Farrell was back at Coolmine RFC to meet his old team mate Stephen Lee, right, and to pay a special visit to the minis and coaches at the club

“Tom would always look out for Stephen, pass

him the ball and make sure he was protected in the ruck“ medallists.

As time went on, his family prepared themselves for disappointment of missing out on a place but, eventually, he found out the good news.

“His mother is obviously his guardian, so the letter went to the house to her, but she was on holiday at the time,” Jennifer tells the Dublin Gazette.

“No one would have thought to open her mail, so when she came back

two weeks later, she was going through the mounds of mail that she got. It wasn’t identified as Special Olympics.

“So there were screams and shouts and phone calls being made. We had to call him because he was out with my dad and his friends. We called him and had him on speakerphone and everything.

“We assumed it had passed and had done the ‘oh, don’t worry, you got to play in the Ire-

land game.’ We’d played it down, basically, and then he ended up being selected.”

Lee and Farrell were in the same age grade growing up and played rugby for Coolmine together as kids. Remarkably, their stories have once more converged in circumstances unimaginable then. “ S te p h e n wa s n’t always able to play the game due to the opposition deciding maybe he’d

get injured.

“Our club always asked were they OK with Stephen playing and sometimes they would say no because they were worried one of their players would hurt him.

“So in games he was allowed play, Tom would look out for him, pass him the ball and make sure he was protected in the ruck.

“It got to the stage where Stephen’s disability really prevented him playing at all, but when

they were seven or eight, they played together at that age.

“As he got older his disability got more obvious and my mother looked at the Special Olympics club in the area, and that’s where she came across Cabra Lions and he got playing with them.”

Stephen will link up with the 90 other Irish Olympians ahead of the Special Olympics in Abu Dhabi between March 14 and 21.