Gazette OH BABY! FINGAL
April 13 - 19, 2017
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WE’RE GOO-GOO, GA-GAZETTE ABOUT BABIES! THE FINALISTS OF OUR BONNIE BABY COMPETITION ARE IN AND THEY ARE SOME OF THE CUTEST PHOTOS WE’VE EVER SEEN. IT’S NOW TIME TO GET VOTING TO SEE WHO’S THE ULTIMATE GAZETTE BONNY BABY.
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RUGBY Fingal clubs on the march 32
Hope for families as CF drug deal agreed SYLVIA POWNALL
Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you
TWO Malahide mums say they “now have hope” following a decision to make the drug Orkambi available to Cystic Fibrosis (CF) sufferers from next month.
The HSE and drug manufacturer Vertex have agreed a deal meaning Orkambi, as well as the drug Kalydeco, will be available from May 1. Teacher Elmarie Tipper, whose six-year-old son TJ has CF, told The Gazette:
“I can’t believe it – it’s just amazing. This is the first time we’ve had hope. “It will make a huge difference to TJ’s life. He’s had a very difficult time but hopefully now we can scale back on some of his treatments.”
Elaine Nolan, whose 16-year-old daughter Ruth is a CF sufferer, said: “We’ve been campaigning for this for the last two and a half years. It will benefit her hugely.” Continued on Page 4
TJ Tipper; Elaine Nolan and her daughter, Ruth
2 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 April 2017
COUNCIL | PUBLIC SUBMISSIONS DOG PLANS TO UPDATE RULES
Man’s best friend is in the firing line over changes to park laws SYLVIA POWNALL MORE than 200 submissions have been lodged on the draft byelaws for parks and open spaces in Fingal. The council plans to introduce ‘bark parks’ in some of its green areas – allowing for dogs to be walked off-leash in enclosed spaces – but not everyone is happy about it. One online submission, calling for ‘dog-free’ zones, notes: “I have been a regular walker in Ardgillan Park since it opened to the public ... I have rarely seen any dog on a leash. “They run about everywhere although their handlers are usually close by. Some months ago, a large dog jumped up on me, to my alarm. “I reminded them to
Canine capers were at the heart of many of the public submissions to update parks and open spaces laws
keep their dog under control and they seem to think that this was a joke.” A second submission also calls for Ardgillan to be segregated into “dogfree” and “free dog” zones so that owners can take their dogs off-leash without worry. But a third argues that there should be no requirement to keep dogs on a leash, arguing: “I am
Colourful costumes Seuss you very well! THESE colourfully-dressed characters created quite vibrant visuals as they gathered to highlight Baldoyle Musical Society’s upcoming Seussical – The Musical. The show promises to bring together some of the children’s author Dr Seuss’s most popular characters and settings in one unforgettable show, with audiences sure to be delighted during its fivenight run. Running from April 18 to 22 in St Mary’s Secondary School, Baldoyle, Tickets are available to buy from www.baldoylemusicalsociety.ie, or by calling 085 137 8329. See Gallery next week
unsure why it is necessary to amend the text regarding having a dog under control to must be on a lead. “If a dog is well trained and under control I believe this to be adequate. Clearly there is an act in place to control dangerous dogs. “Why must we live in a society where there is so much control? I would
prefer to see more monitoring of dog owners not cleaning up after their dog fouls the path/grass areas.” Fingal County Council held information road shows at Malahide Demesne, Ardgillan Demesne in Balbriggan, St Catherine’s Park in Lucan and Santry Demesne. Three more are planned at Millennium Park, Blanchardstown (Easter Sunday, 10am to 1pm), The Ward River Valley Swords (Saturday, April 22, 10am to 1pm) and Newbridge Demesne Donabate (Sunday, April 30, 10am to 1pm). Other proposed changes of note include banning the use of drones and providing designated areas for cycling, roller blading and roller skating. Smok-
ing will also be prohibited in or near children’s playgrounds. Fingal’s senior parks superintendant Kevin H a l p e n ny t o l d T h e Gazette: “We’ve had over 200 submissions, some online but a lot handed in at the roadshows. “There have been a lot of ideas on how to tweak the byelaws and just bring them up to date. For example, some people are fine with drones but for others they present issues around safety and privacy.” The local authority manages and maintains 2,000 hectares of public open space, with the current byelaws dating back to 2002. A copy of the proposed byelaws is available at https://consult.fingal.ie/ en/browse.
FASTNews
Food company gets a tasty result at award ceremony MINISTER for Jobs and Enterprise Mary Mitchell O’Connor was on hand to congratulate Lorraine Heskin, managing director of Gourmet Food Parlour, on winning an All-Ireland Business Award at Croke Park. The food company, which operates at various locations, including Swords, Malahide and Dun Laoghaire, and is soon to open an outlet in Santry, scooped the All Stars Food and Drink Business of the Year award despite the stiff challenge posed by a number of well-known brands. Chairperson Bobby Kerr joined Minister Mitchell O’Connor in congratulating the company, which is the official nutritional partner with the Dublin GAA county board. Gourmet Food Parlour also work with partners Food Flicker, an online nutrition and performance resource, to design and deliver nutritionally strong meals as part of their menus, while the firm’s catering division is associated with several large corporations, providing catering to industry giants such as AIG, FAI, Google, Universal, Alltech and the Special Olympics.
Removal of tax relief is an ‘attack on the elderly’ SENATOR James Reilly (FG) has slammed a proposal to end tax reliefs for people who take out private health insurance, branding it an attack on the elderly. Senator Reilly said signals that the Oireachtas Committee on the Future of Healthcare will recommend scrapping the tax relief measures are an unconscionable move by the Left. The former Minister for Health said: “This proposal is a further attack by the Left on older people who worked hard all their lives building this country. “Many who may never have used their insurance and now have come to a time in their lives when they might need it are to be further undermined at a time when they’re feeling most vulnerable. “Given the current capacity of the public health service, there is no possibility it could cope with the number of people who would find insurance unaffordable. “It is untenable, unworkable and unconscionable that we would undermine further those who are in most need of their health insurance, having paid for it all their lives,” he said.
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13 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 3
FASTNews 150 new jobs announced for the city 150 new jobs for Dublin this year as tech company Citrix plans to expand its office in East Point Business Park. The new jobs will primarily be in sales and technical support. Citrix currently employs 225 people in Ireland. Citrix is also establishing a Sales Academy at its Dublin offices to develop junior sales talent with the aim of preparing them for more senior roles with the company in the future. Speaking at the announcement Jobs Minister Mary Mitchell O’Connor said: “We already have a strong footprint of ICT companies in the Dublin area and we always encourage these companies to expand and diversify.”
REAL LIFE | MEET THE DUBLIN TRADESMAN FIXING PENSIONERS ROOFS FOR FREE
The height of decency
Sean Collins has been giving up his weekends to fix elderly people’s leaky roofs. Picture: The Irish Daily Mirror
SYLVIA POWNALL BIG-heared roofer Sean Collins is giving up his Saturday mornings to repair pensioners’ leaky roofs free of charge. The generous tradesman says he’s happy to help – and he doesn’t mind missing the footie to do something more worthwhile with his time. The 32-year-old dad of two from Crumlin started the voluntary service when an elderly neighbour asked him to inspect his roof and give him a quote. Sean revealed: “I walked by this man’s house every day just saying hello to him. Then one day he asked us to have a look at his roof and give him a price, but he couldn’t afford it. “I couldn’t believe that this man had to live with a leak coming into his bedroom, so I fixed it for free. He had a bucket at the end of the stairs he had to keep emptying out. The rain was coming down on his bed. I asked why he didn’t just move the bed but he said he couldn’t because it was too heavy. I got to thinking how many more OAPs are in this situation? So I decided that once a week I’m going out to fix minor repairs for free.” Sean has worked as a roofer for 15 years and branched out on his own four years ago. He added: “I’m happy to help out as many people as I can. I have four lads working for me and one of them comes out with me each Saturday to give me a hand. “If they’re small jobs it’s simple enough to do them at no charge.” Sean is now urging any OAPs in need of his services to check out Collins Roofing on Facebook or contact him directly at 086 1274202.
4 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 April 2017
POLITICS | ALAN FARRELL (FG) CRITICISED BY FF – AND OWN PARTY – OVER POST HEALTH
Time travel jibe lands TD in hot water SYLVIA POWNALL FINGAL TD Alan Farrell came under fire from his own party at the weekend for a Facebook jibe at the family of Fianna Fail’s environment spokesman Barry Cowen. The Fine Gael deputy posted comments about Mr Cowen’s brother and former Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, and his father, Ber,
who was also a Fianna Fail TD. The post included a poster for the classic 1980s movie, Back to the Future, with Barry Cowen mocked up as Michael J Fox’s character Marty McFly, and FF leader Micheal Martin as Doc Emmett Brown. The post was criticised by Fianna Fail Cork NW which described it as “gutter stuff” and added: “Dep-
uty Alan Farrell has hit a new low for FG. Please learn to spell deputy!” That link to the poster was later removed from Facebook, as was Deputy Farrell’s original post. On Saturday, FG chief whip Regina Doherty criticised Mr Farrell for posting personal comments about the Cowen family and said she would speak to him directly about it.
Delight as drug deal will help local CF sufferers Continued from Page 1
Fianna Fail justice spokesman Jim O’Callaghan also criticised the Fine Gael TD for “making personal attacks at some- Deputy Farrell’s (FG) edited poster on social media, since removed, which drew flak from his own party as well as Fianna Fail one’s family”. On Facebook, He added: “As Taoise- favour of installing meters Deputy Farrell said Ber Cowen was elected when ach, he signed up to water in new builds and levying Fianna Fail won a “land- charges in an attempt households for “excessive slide victory on a populist to help correct his own use” of water over 133 litres economic programme” mess.” per person per day. On Barry Cowen, Depwhich was “largely based Deputy Farrell was preon the abolition of house- uty Farrell said: “He has viously investigated by hold rates which included led Fianna Fail’s policy on the Dail Public Accounts payment for water” which water and has flip-flopped Committee for comments from one position to he made in the chamber led to recession. He said Brian Cowen another – always for popu- about the Austin Stack “continued to pursue pop- list political reasons.” case. He was cleared of Fianna Fail rowed back any wrongdoing or abuse ulist policies” as Finance Minister and accused him on its position in a crunch of Dail privilege. of “stoking the housing Dail vote on Tuesday and The Gazette contacted bubble which crashed our sided with Fine Gael in Deputy Farrell’s office, but supporting a report in he declined to comment. economy”.
Monet vandal coughs up €200 for stealing 17 electric toothbrushes A MAN who damaged a €10 million Claude Monet painting five years ago has paid €200 compensation for stealing 17 electric toothbrushes from a Swords store. Andrew Shannon (52), of Willan’s Way, Ongar admitted the theft in court and blamed an addiction to painkillers and “harder substances” following a quadruple heart bypass. The district court heard Shannon took the toothbrushes from a shelf at Dunnes Stores in the Pavilions Shopping Centre on December 8 last year. The defendant, who has more than 30 previous convictions, put the items in his bag and left without paying for them.
Defence barrister Patrick Jackson said Shannon had major heart surgery in 2014 and heart problems run in his family. Shannon was given a six-year prison sentence in 2014 for the damage he caused to Monet’s 1874 painting, Argenteuil Basin with a Single Sail Boat, at the National Gallery of Ireland on Clare Street on June 29, 2012. During his eight-day trial for that offence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court in December 2014, Shannon said he had felt dizzy and had fallen. The Monet painting is now back on display in the National Gallery following a period of restoration.
Mum-of-four Elaine paid tribute to Ruth’s pals in transition year at Santa Sabina secondary school in Sutton which mounted a campaign and collected thousands of signatures to support her. She told The Gazette: “I’m still in shock at the news. Ruth is an ideal candidate for the drug – it will stop her CF from progressing. It’s not a cure, but it will treat the underlying problems.” T he Government u-turn – announced in the Dail late on Tuesday evening – followed a lengthy campaign by parents after Health Minister Simon Harris said the funding for the drug could not be found.
Tribute Cystic Fibrosis Ireland yesterday welcomed the news, paying tribute to all in the CF community who had campaigned so long to get the drug approved. A spokesperson said: “The development is especially welcome, coming as it does during Cystic Fibrosis National Awareness Week, with 65 Roses Day taking place countrywide this Thursday.” Elmarie now hopes Orkambi will offer little TJ a better quality of life after a long and painful road and endless rounds of IV injections, nebulisor treatments and physiotherapy. In a heartbreaking Facebook post, she recently revealed: “Bedtime isn’t easy for TJ. At six years of age he lies awake processing his day, why IVs and treatments are so unfair and as his sister lies beside him sleeping soundly, he is always thinking ahead to the next round of IVS.” But yesterday Elmarie said the future looked brighter, adding: “I’m still in shock, but it’s a good kind of shock.”
13 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 5
RESCUE 116 | FLOTILLA’S EFFORT FAILS – BUT HOPE ENDURES TO RECOVER MISSING HEROES
Searchers thanked as bid to find crew unsuccessful
SYLVIA POWNALL
GARDA divers will continue their search off the Mayo coast in a bid to recover missing Dublin coast guards Ciaran Smith and Paul Ormsby. Dad-of-three Ciaran, originally from Swords but living in Oldtown, was one of four crew on board Rescue 116 helicopter when it crashed on March 14. Winchmen Ciaran and Paul remain missing after the body of Captain Mark Duffy was recovered on Sunday, March 26, following an agonising 12-day wait. Pilot Captain Dara Fitzpatrick was laid to rest after her body was taken from the sea soon after the tragic incident.
Keen cyclist Ciaran, who was a member of Wild Geese GAA Club, received awards for his courage during his career with the Air Corps and Irish Coast Guard. These included a hazardous snatch of a swimmer from a cove below cliffs near Portstewart, Co Derry in May 2003, where he was dangled between swell and rocks. Ciaran also shared an award with the late Captain Mark Duffy – co-pilot on the ill-fated Blacksod mission – for the difficult sea rescue of a woman from a cliff near Howth last year. The extensive sea search for the two remaining Rescue 116 crew members, involving a flotilla of up to 100 fishing
The family of Ciaran Smith (right) and family members of the other missing crew look out to the search area. Main file picture: The Irish Sun
trawlers on Saturday, ended on Monday without success. The Marine Institute’s Holland 1 remotely operated sub
had been searching an area 40m below sea level for the past few weeks but stopped on Monday afternoon.
Superintendant Tony Healy confirmed the Garda water unit would persevere with diving searches around Blackrock Lighthouse, weather permitting. However, the near fourweek operation has been scaled back and all organisations involved in the search have been thanked. The coast guard’s Gerard O’Flynn expressed his thanks to all organisations for their support over the past four weeks. In a joint statement issued by An Gardai Siochana and the Department of Transport, they said: “An Garda Siochana, the Air Accident Investigation Unit and Irish Coast Guard reiterated their sym-
pathy to the families of Dara Fitzpatrick, Mark Duffy, Paul Ormsby and Ciaran Smith and expressed the hope the remains of Paul and Ciaran would be found.” Ciaran’s sister, Orla, her sister-in-law Martina and three young children and his parents Michael and Teresa have been given some words of comfort from Lost at Sea Tragedies chairperson Caitlin Ui Aodha. Her husband was one of five men who died in the 2012 sinking of the Tit Bonhomme in west Cork and whose body was found almost four weeks later. “Three weeks is still early in a search,” she said. The record for recovering a body in Irish waters is 96 days.
6 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 April 2017
Out and About
Lisa McEvoy and Fiona Martin
Hannah Hopkins, Aine Wayne, Carla Butterly
Sea Scouts get boating season off to a start A
Kate Lehane and Emma Rowan with Sea Scout Leader Helena Butterly. Pictures: Andsdd
Andrew Kelly, Andrew Osborne, Neil Osborne and Luke Canavan
Ciara Drumm Quill, Keelin McEvoy and Ruth Somers
FTER the long winter of sanding and repairs Malahide Sea Scouts kicked off their new boating season as the fleet was launched at the Malahide pier to the delight of all in attendance. A full compliment of sail, power, oars and kayaks took to the water accompanied by sun, tide and a gentle breeze – the perfect day to mark the start of the season. The nautical training award participants who are nearing the end of their course, took the opportunity to manage the pier and successfully got tons of eager Beavers and Cubs into the boats for a spin around the estuary.
Kian Hopkins, Oisin Kelly, Ronan Allen, Rueben Allen and Andrew Desmond
Anna Ryan, Ellen Barry and Aoife McCarthy
Kate Robinson, Orna Reid, Leah McGee and Helen Howard
13 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 7
Out and About
Scoil Phadraic Cailini pupils Molly Hand, Niamh Gaffney, Emma Walsh, Sophie O’Neill and Dara Heffernan with Oisin Geoghegan, head of enterprise, LEO Fingal with Moses O’ Brien and Ryan Deane
Oisin Geoghegan, Head of Enterprise, LEO Fingal. Pictures: Joe Keogh
of Sell’n Products from Scoil Realt na Mara School, Skerries
Elaine Nic Reamoinn, teacher; Aoife Clooney, Intermediate Fingal Student Enterprise Awards Winner of Make every step count from Colaiste Ghlor na Mara
Ms Murphy, Teacher; Shannon Clarke; Deputy Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Eithne Loftus; Bobbi Taaffe; Ciara O Connor
and Deputy Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Eithne Loftus
and teacher Ms Quinn
Young entrepreneurs impress F
INGAL’S youngest entrepreneurs impressed when Fingal Local Enterprise Office held their local Student Enterprise finals last week. Fingal LEO enlisted, motivated and mentored a record 60 student enterprise finalists from 24 secondary schools and six primary schools in the locality. Co-ordinated by the Local Enterprise Offices in every Local Authority area, the competition is the most successful student enterprise programme of its kind in the country.
Are you a member of a camera club? Would you like to see your shots in print? Why not send your pictures to aconway@ dublingazette. com
Oisin Geoghegan with Senior Category and Overall Fingal Student
Louise Flemming, Local Enterprise Office Wicklow; Ben Kershaw; Deagan Kresojevic; Jakub
Enterprise Awards Winners, Sticks n’ Stones from Blakestown Community
Kwiatkowski; Antony Leontis; Teacher Keith Campbell; Bob King; Deputy Mayor of Fingal,
School, Ciara O’Connor, Shannon Clarke and Bobbi Taaffe
Cllr Eithne Loftus.
8 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 April 2017
Castle set to host Easter Market FASTNews
EU boost could help boost WiFi in rural Fingal
PUBLIC WiFi could be a step closer for Fingal residents, according to Cllr Malachy Quinn (SF). He revealed that his party colleague Liadh Ni Riada MEP’s report on WIFI4EU had been adopted by a committee vote in Strasbourg and is expected to be passed, paving the way for WiFi hubs in towns and villages across north Dublin. Cllr Quinn said: “This is an important project for Fingal and I now urge all communities without this type of infrastructure to keep an eye on the scheme and avail of it when it is rolled out.
A FREE day of family fun is promised at the Easter Monday market in Swords Castle when Fingal County Council hosts Cruinniu na Casca, where a host of local artists, craft makers and artisan producers will display their creative wares from 12 noon to 6pm. The refurbished surroundings of the historic castle will provide the perfect backdrop for the day’s activities which also include live music and entertainment, children’s arts and crafts and more. There will be an opportunity to learn more about the history of Swords and its heritage sites, including the castle, St. Columba’s Towers, St.Colmcille’s Well, Peter Wilson’s Bridge and the Carnegie Library, from the Swords Heritage Trail Free Bus Tour which will be running
on the day (book in advance via events@fingal.ie). Fingal Mayor Cllr Darragh Butler said: “The castle is a magnificent amenity in the heart of Swords and it is tremendous to see another exciting event being held there. “The Christmas Market was a huge success and I’m sure the Cruinniú na Cásca Easter Market will be just as popular.” The council will also host an open meeting on Monday April 24 from 7pm to 9pm in the Carlton Hotel, Cloghran to share details about the Creative Ireland Programme and gauge local interest. Anybody inter- ested in attending the open meeting is requested to register at Eventbrite before April 18. Email creativefingal@fingal.ie or call 01 8905097, or visit fingal.ie for more information.
“It is a very simple but effective idea. It requires a relatively small investment of some €120 million Europe-wide that, if used wisely, will have huge returns for the communities it benefits. “The basic premise is that we equip as many towns and villages as possible with free wireless internet access, centred on the main centres of public life in that area, by 2020.” A sum of €20 million will be made available for the scheme before the end of the year and local authorities are invited to apply online.
Fingal Rising hero to be honoured in town SYLVIA POWNALL
A FINGAL hero of the 1916 Rising will be honoured at a ceremony opposite Heuston Station in Dublin on Easter Monday. Peter Wilson (right) – the only volunteer killed at the Battle of Heuston’s Fort – will be remembered at a wreath-laying ceremony to mark the role played by 24 valiant men of the so-called Mendicity Garrison. Fingal’s Mayor, Cllr Darragh Butler (FF), has been invited to say a few words at the graveside before a wreath is laid at the Roll of Honour plaque on Monday. Robin Bollard, chairman of the Mendicity
Garrison Relatives group said: “We hope to see as many people as possible at this 101st commemoration ceremony.” Peter, who lived on Swords’ North Street, was 40 years old at the time of the Rising. A road worker by trade, he joined the Irish Volunteers when they were first established in 1913 and became a mem-
ber of the Fingal Brigade. He was mobilised on Easter Monday and sent from the GPO to the Mendicity Institution on Usher’s Island, or the Mendo as it is known to many. The homelessness charity, based at the time in a house facing the Liffey at Usher’s Island, was held as a rebel garrison during Easter week and the scene of fierce fighting. When the men surrendered, Peter was shot dead by troops overlooking the yard to the rear of the building where the garrison had lined up with the white flag. He died on April 26, 1916, and is buried in the grounds of Dr Steeven’s
Hospital opposite Heuston Station. Meanwhile, the Fingal Old IRA Commemorative Society will mark the Easter Rising at a ceremony in Ballyboughal on Sunday. The event will start with a parade of ‘The Colours’ followed by 10am mass at the parish church. Event co -ordinator Cathal Boland said: “Following mass we invite you to read the Proclamation before ‘The Colours’ lead our parade to the local graveyard. “Ann McDonald will lay a w reath on our behalf and this will be followed by The Last Post and the national anthem.”
Fastest-growing area is Fingal FINGAL has become the fastest-growing area in the country and also boasts the youngest population, according to Census 2016. The average age in Fingal county now stands at 34.3 years – in contrast to the national average of 37.4. Fingal grew by 8% in the five years since the last census – more than twice that of the state overall. Meath in the commuter belt came closest at 5.9%, while Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown grew at 5.7%, with Dublin city and South Dublin both expanding by 5.1%. Only Cork city, at 5.4%, came anywhere close to the growth rate of the capital. Nine other counties grew at a rate of less than 2%, with Donegal and Mayo showing a fall in population. There were 62,552 more people living in Dublin in 2016 than five years previously – up from 1,110,627 people in 2011 to 1,173,179 in 2016.
Aldi agree to restore footpath ALDI have agreed to oversee reinstating the footpath on Seatown Road following construction of the new Swords store. The issue was raised at an area council meeting by Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) who was assured by officials that the matter was in hand. A council spokesman said: “As the work was undertaken to facilitate the Aldi development, they have agreed to reinstate the footpath and a compliance has been submitted for approval, which includes this work. Aldi have given a commitment that work will commence as soon as the compliance submission is approved.”
13 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 9
It’s Hi-Glo Silver for bright sparks at Marnock’s
PUPILS at St Marnock’s NS are on the road to success after coming second in the national ‘Seatbelt Sheriff’ and ‘Hi-Glo Silver’ awards. The children impressed judges of the Road Safety Authority competition for their poster design ‘Day or Night, Stay Bright’. Hundreds of entries were received but the Portmarnock school kids’ efforts stood out dant Con O’Donohue. for Superinten-
BALBRIGGAN MAN SENTENCED
Life sentence for dissident’s murder A BALBRIGGAN man has been sentenced to life in prison for his role in the murder of a dissident republican in a pub car park four years ago. Peter Butterly, 35, was shot dead outside The Huntsman Inn, Gormanstown, Co Meath on March 6, 2013. Edward McGrath, 35, of Land Dale Lawns, Springfield, Tallaght, and Sharif Kelly, 47, of Pinewood Green Road, Balbriggan, were convicted at the Special Criminal Court. Mr Justice Tony Hunt said it was distressing that two men with no previous convictions who made positive contributions to their communities were involved in a pre-planned, callous and deliberate murder. A third accused, 24-year-old Dean Evans of Grange Park Rise, Raheny, failed to turn up for the trial and has not been found by gardai. Another man, David Cullen, whose role was to dispose of the
murder weapon, testified against the two men. He was convicted of firearms offences and is now in the witness protection programme. A row within The Real IRA led to what the judge called the “premeditated slaughter of a loving father and partner”.
Fired two shots Mr Butterly was waiting in his car at the Huntsman Inn when McGrath drove into the car park and the gunman in the back fired two shots at Mr Butterly’s car. Kelly – the second getaway driver – was waiting nearby in his ex-wife’s car to collect the other two, with a bag of clothes for the gunman and a duvet covering the back seat. The court said it was satisfied Mr Butterly was shot by Evans, who was driven to and from the scene by McGrath, with the gun being collected by Cullen and Kelly helping the killers escape.
He said: “We are appealing to parents and teachers around the country to build on the work being done in schools and at home by establishing safe and responsible road use at all times. “This fun competition encourages children to get involved in saving lives on the road by teaching them the importance of buckling up and wearing high visibility clothing.”
COURTS | TWO-MONTH SENTENCE FOR MAN’S LEWD ACT
Judge delivers jail time to flasher who targeted postman A MAN who exposed his penis to a postman making a delivery to a Swords caravan park has been jailed for two months. Health service worker Daniel Lascovici, 28, asked the postman “Have you a letter for me?” as he stood at the entrance to the park on the Rathbeale Road with his trousers open and his penis erect. The Romanian national, who claimed he had been drinking alcohol at the time of the flashing incident at 10am, also whistled to the postman as he left the scene. A probation report was ordered to assess whether he
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‘The Romanian national, who claimed he had been drinking alcohol at the time ... also whistled to the postman as he left the scene’ -----------------------------
is suitable to undertake 120 hours of community service work in lieu of prison but it deemed him unsuitable. An appeal was immediately lodged. The defendant, of Seaview
Bungalow, Seatown West in Swords, pleaded guilty to being intoxicated in a public place on February 10 last year. Defence solicitor Morgan Redmond told the court last week the 28-year-old, who is a qualified care assistant and nurse in Romania, is due to qualify in a similar field here. “He is extremely embarrassed,” said Mr Redmond. “He said on the day he had consumed alcohol and isn’t used to drinking. “The consequence of this resulted in his situation on the day. He accepts culpability and understands the effects on all concerned.”
As the incident happened at 10am Judge Dermot Dempsey said he believed “there was more than drink involved”. Mr Redmond said the defendant has offered an apology to the postman but was told by gardai it would not be required and he was warned not to approach the postman. “It was completely out of character,” said Mr Redmond. Judge Dempsey remarked: ‘’A health service worker carrying on like this? How can I not consider leaving him without a conviction?” and imposed the sentence.
10 GAZETTE 13 April 2017
Gazette babies are the cutest.. WIN | VOTE TO SEE WHO’S THE GA-GAZETTE’S SPRINGTIME BONNY BABY
Chloe and Charlotte Coffey are twice as cute!
Joe O’Carroll loves his dinner!
Super-cute little Emma Gilmore (18 months) and her little puppy, sent in by Orla Kennedy
LIttle Katie Smith, sent in by her mum Aishling Monaghan
VOTE! VOTE ! VOTE! W
Three year olds Rebecca and Henry Arthurs are the best of cousins
E’VE had a wonderful response to our Gazette Bonnie baby competition – and we’re hugely grateful to the multitude of proud mums, dads, grandparents and family friends out there who so kindly shared some of the cutest photos we’ve ever seen. Theses are our lucky finalists, who now go forward to a public vote to see who’s the ultimate Gazette Bonny Baby. (You can vote for your favourite pic on our Facebook page, or by emailing competitions@dublingazette.com.) We have some great prizes to give away – including two hampers worth €90 each from our friends at NUK Ireland – and one lucky winner will win a free family or newborn photoshoot worth €180 from Gazette photojournalist and expert baby photographer Ali, of Alison O’Hanlon Photography. Voting is open from today until April 19, with our winners announced in next week’s papers and on our Facebook page on April 20. And keep an eye out for more great Gazette Giveaways in your free weekly Dublin Gazette – because Grace Ahern (13 months) remember folks, the future is sent in by Brian Ahern local, the future is free!
Zack the piano man, sent in by Karolina Gasinska
Nine-month-old smiler Parker Daly
13 April 2017 GAZETTE 11
CHARITY | STUDENTS CALLED ON TO JUMP ON THEIR BIKES FOR SIMON COMMUNITY
Get in a spin and help the homeless to get education EMMA NOLAN DUBLIN Simon Community are calling on students to get on their bike for their upcoming Simon Spin Challenge, which takes place on Friday, April 21, on Grafton Street from 11am-7pm. The fundraising event will see teams from various different colleges and universities around Dublin spinning on stationary bikes for a total of eight hours over one day. This fundraiser must raise €10,000 to fund Dublin Simon Community’s programme to support people, who have experienced homelessness, to rebuild their lives and pursue education. Speaking about the initiative, Sam McGuinness from the Dublin Simon Community said: “The journey from homelessness to a home is much more than putting a roof over somebody’s head. “We are encouraging students to help create opportunities for future students. The money raised will go towards our grant scheme to help people who have experienced homelessness get an education. “The grant will remove barriers for people accessing third level and will help with the costs associated with pursuing third level education, be it fees, books or travel costs.” Students will compete in a Battle of the Colleges on the day. Each team will consist of eight spinners who will cycle for a total of two hours each. The team that travels the furthest and raises the most money will claim victory and will win some sought after prizes. Spot prizes for extra challenges on the day will also be up for grabs! The Simon Spin Challenge is a fantastic way to have fun, keep fit and help raise vital funds for a great cause! If cycling isn’t your thing, you can still give people who are homeless an opportunity to get an education by bucket shaking for your College Spinners on the day. To take up the challenge for homelessness and become the winning college, email Grace Allen at: Grace@dubsimon.ie or call the Fundraising Team on 01-671 5551 and they will be able to show you how to set up your own JustGiving page for the event. Each team also needs 10-12 bucket shakers to cheer on their spinners and collect vital funds throughout the day. This fundraiser specifically aims to raise €10,000 to fund Dublin Simon Community’s third level education grant for clients using our services who wish to pursue further education.
News
12 GAZETTE 13 April 2017
MOTORING: THE OPTIMA HAS IT ALL P20
TRAVEL: CYPRUS - BELIEVE ALL THE HYPE P23
DUBLINLIFE
GAZETTE
CINEMA: GHOST IN THE SHELL SHOCKER P24
Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
THRILL 16
MUSICAL YOUTH: CELEBRATING 10 GLORIOUS YEARS OF THE IYMA
SENSITIVE BAXTER IS SUCH A REAL SWEETHEART OUR Dog of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* is Baxter, a one-year-old Beagle. He is a curious guy and, being a typical Beagle, Bazter likes to busy himself investigating new surroundings. He would love to live with another dog as he is a super social dog. He will happily share his belongings with a doggy pal and a confident dog will help him settle into his new home. Baxter is a sensitive soul and can be a bit unsure of new people, so his adopters will have to take their time with him. A quiet home with older children of about 10 years of age and up would suit him best. If you can be Baxter’s #SpecialSomeone*, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website, www.dogstrust. ie. You can also find them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE.
Croker gets ready for the Irish Youth Music Awards
Ballymun teenagers The Innocents will follow in the footsteps of another Ballymun quartet when they play Croke Park at the IYMA next weekend
GET DOWN TO THE HUB THE IYMA Education Hub brings together some of Ireland’s top music industry professionals supported by BIMM Institute Dublin. Those attending the Awards at Croke Park on Saturday next will have the opportunity to sign up for the Education Hub, which will feature music industry panels, master classes and workshops in vocals, song-writing and more. Visit www.iymas.ie for full education hub schedule and the biographies for music industry professionals featured. Workshops for individual musical disciplines will also take place on the day. These include a drum workshop with Paul Kenny, who has toured with James Vincent McMorrow, Jape, and German band Get Well Soon. Danny Snow, who has toured extensively all over the world with Villagers and Cathy Davey, will be offering a bass workshop.
REBECCA WESTON THE Irish Youth Music Awards has a new home this year – and a wealth of new Irish talent to go with it! The Youth Work Ireland initiative will celebrate its tenth year at next Saturday’s National Day festival (April 22), and this year’s event will now take place at Croke Park. Aimed at creating teamwork and friendship at local level, the IYMA also provides first-hand work experience for participants in all areas associated with the music business such as PR, stage management, graphic design, photography and much more. Talent The showpiece of the IYMA National Day is of course the Awards ceremony itself, and we have some great talent from the capital who’ll perform at the legendary stadium for a chance to win recording time at 2FM’s famous Studio 8. The overall winner will win recording time in a professional recording studio, a recording session in RTÉ 2FM’s legendary Studio 8 and a full backline provided by Music Maker Dublin. The winners will also get to produce an album of their own original tracks released on physical CD with a professional design.
WIN WIN
WE’VE got seven pairs of tickets to give away for the Irish Youth Music Awards Festival Day at Croke Park on Saturday April 22. Just got to the Dublin Gazette’s Facebook page and LIKE and SHARE our IYMA post. Winners will be announced on our Facebook page on Tuesday at 5pm.
Spotify The album will be digitally distributed worldwide through all major outlets including iTunes and Spotify. Tickets for the Irish Youth Music Awards National Day are available from Eventbrite priced €20 including booking fee here. The event is an all ages, alcohol free event. Group tickets are also available for youth clubs, projects or schools priced €120 (including booking fee) allowing admission for six young people and two youth leaders on the day. Group tickets must be booked by April 14th.
Meet the Dublin finalists: Pgs 16-17
13 April 2017 GAZETTE 13
GAZETTE
14 GAZETTE 13 April 2017
DUBLINLIFE
DIARY
TALLAGHT HOSPITAL CHARITY CYCLE: RAISING VITAL FUNDS FOR THE INTENSIVE CARE UNIT
On yer bike for charity THE hugely successful Tallaght Hospital Charity Cycle has been launched for 2017. The Summer 99 – 2017 Charity Cycle takes place on June 17, with the aim of raising vital funds for the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Tallaght Hospital. There are 200 places available on the cycle, and participants are encouraged to register soon, before these places are filled. The closing date for registration is June 2. The entry fee includes refreshments which will be provided on the day, as well as a cycling jersey. Cyclists have a choice between a 40km route and a 99km route. The routes begin and end at Tallaght Hospital and take in scenic areas of the Wicklow mountains including Brittas and Blessington. For further information on the event and how to register, please see www.iregister.ie/ v2/events/summer-99-charity-cycle-2017/ Funds raised will be used to purchase Advanced Haem o d y n a m i c Mo n i t o r i n g equipment for the ICU. This equipment will
enable doctors and nurses to accurately assess and manage a patient’s heart and cardiovascular functions during a critical illness. Professor Gerr y Fitzpatrick, an anaesthesia and intensive care Consultant at Tallaght Hospital said: “The event promises to be a great day out and a very enjoyable occasion for everyone. “So I encourage everyone who has an interest to register and support our work. Your support and generosity is much appreciated.”
LUCY HELPS LAUNCH CHARITY PARTNERSHIP THE ISPCC and Ikea have teamed up to raise money for the charity with the help of TV presenter Lucy Kennedy. The new one-year partnership with ISPCC involves over 713 co-workers from the home furnishing experts fundraising throughout the year. To mark the announcement of the partnership, IKEA Dublin will donate an initial €5,000 worth of home furnishings for the benefit of therapeutic rooms for children and young people to be distributed among the ISPCC’s services.
Throughout the year IKEA will work closely with the ISPCC, providing expert advice and knowledge to benefit the work of the charity. I K E A c o - wo r ke r s a r e already planning a number of fundraising activities, which kicks off with an exciting Strictly Come Dancing event where co-workers aim to raise a whopping €20,000. Launching the campaign, Lucy Kennedy said: “I am really pleased that IKEA Coworkers chose the ISPCC as charity of the year. The ISPCC provides such an important service to children, listening to every child who needs someone to talk to. It’s great that they are being supported.”
DUBLIN AMBER DRINK TO HELP SENIOR CITIZENS THE Licensed Vintners Association (LVA) has announced a new community initiative with ALONE, the charity that supports older people at home. With 600 members, the LVA is marking its bicentenary this year, and has called on its publican members to pour support into the fundraising initiative in the hope
Pictured from left to right at the launch of the 2017 Tallaght Hospital Summer 99 Charity Cycle: Dr. Pat Conroy, Consultant Anaesthetist; Prof. Gerry Fitzpatrick, Director of Tallaght Hospital Intensive Care; David Slevin, CEO; Siobhan Connors, Critical Care Outreach Nurse and Yvonne Lewis Senior Health Care Assistant in ICU
TV presenter Lucy Kennedy launches the ISPCC and IKEA Charity Partnership with the help of Hollie Walker from Finglas and Riley Delaney-Berry from Rathfarnham. Picture: Brian McEvoy
of raising €200,000 to help older citizens in their own homes. To help the cause, Guinness has created a new, limited edition beer – Dublin Amber Pale Ale – sales of which will support the fundraiser. Some 50 cent will go to ALONE from each Dublin Amber sold, with the funds also helping to support its befriending service, with volunteer ‘Befrienders’ helping to give seniors a muchneeded social boost across the city. Highlighting the charity drive, the LVA said that it, and its members, were delighted to help play a part in supporting the community as a core part of its bicentenary celebrations, with Guinness also saying it was happy
to help. Dublin Amber Pale Ale is currently available on draught for a limited time only, and can be found at hundreds of pubs across the city.
OPW LAUNCHES BURNING BOOKS – AN EXHIBITION THE Office of Public Works has just launched Burning Books – an exhibition detailing the reproduction of 14 volumes of the Irish Parliamentary Journals dating from the 1700’s which were destroyed during the Irish Civil War in 1922. In the last decade of the 19th century the book collector and amateur book binder Sir Edward Sullivan was shown a collection of 149 large volumes in exquisite bindings that had been stored, unnoticed, over many
years in the Public Records Office in Dublin. They were in fact the Journals of the Houses of Lords and Commons of the old Irish Parliament, that ceased to exist after the 1800 Act of Union. Sullivan made rubbings of all 149 volumes and photographed 20, intending to publish a large monograph on the subject. He did not receive enough financial support for this, but did succeed in publishing a small volume, Decorative Book-Binding in Ireland, which was published in 1914 by the Sette of Odd Volumes in London. Fourteen volumes of the 149 bindings were reproduced and are on display in Dublin Castle until September.
13 April 2017 GAZETTE 15
13 April 2017 GAZETTE 17
DUBLINLIFE
N O S ’ T A H W
E D I U G S T N E V E with JAMES HENDICOTT
Story Time In Alan Hanna’s Book Shop The Rathmines independent bookshop hosts a wonderful weekly event for children up to the age of about ten, featuring playful readings and snacks. 11.30am every Saturday.
Fast-rising Cork musician comes to Dublin’s Sugar Club on April 20/ 21, having already climbed to the heights of Glastonbury and 3Arena appearances. A silky, modern, vocally-sublime one to watch.
Aine Cahill
The Good Run
An annual health start to Easter, The Good Run takes place on Good Friday, a charity event raising funds to tackle Motor Neurone Disease. Runners tackle 2.5 or 5km around St Anne’s Park, Raheny, on April 14.
A Celebration of Prince
The Grand Social brings together a host of musicians and DJs to celebrate the life of Prince one year after his passing. Fancy dress - especially purple - strongly encouraged. April 21.
Cruinniu na Casca
A celebration of contemporary Irish culture running for free across Ireland on Easter Monday, the Dublin events will include Ceili, pipe bands, trad, street art and activities focused on different industries in Ireland.
Al Porter - At Large
Al Porter
BATTLE OF THE BANDS MUSIC
BAND: THE INNOCENTSYOUTH CLUB: Ballymun Regional Youth Resource
Aine Cahill
The Tallaght native brings his standup routine to Vicar St, a location that’s become something of a second home for him. April 17.
Revolution in Colour
Director Martin Dwan visits the IFI on Easter Monday to present his documentary on the Easter Rising, ‘Revolution In Colour’. The film presents events using old newsreels as a guide, but adding enlivening personal angles and colour to the footage. April 17.
Ulysses and Censorship
Explore the issues James Joyce’s masterpiece suffered when it first appeared, as the James Joyce centre looks at the the great book’s difficulties in its hometown. Throughout 2017.
New album of the week: Imelda May - Life Love Flesh Blood. The Life Love Flesh Blood Liberties hero - now relocated to London - launches her fifth album, which features guest appearances from Jools Holland and Jeff Beck.
GAZETTE
GAZETTE
16 GAZETTE 13 April 2017
THE INNOCENTS were formed in 2014 by Ballymun locals Jonathan Ambrose (16 - Lead Vocals) and Sam McGuire (16 - Lead Guitarist). They often played music together with the hopes of forming a band in their local youth club. They decided to reach out to their friend Kez Kinevane (17 - Drummer) who had no previous experience playing the drums so starting learning them from scratch, with help from Jonathan and BRYR Volunteer Darren Poole. The band needed a bass player and Sam met Kenan (18) while busking and they became friends. Guitarist Kenan had no prevous experience playing the bass so he set about learning, which lead to The Innocents forming. Over the last few years they have had the opportunity through the BRYR MUSIC CLUB to build confidence & gain experience by playing at local community events, with the continuing support of BRYR Music staff and Volunteers. The Innocents continue to be part of the BRYR Music Club and use the space to rehearse and up-skill. This young band have already accomplished so much in such short time that they’ve been together. Most recently they performed on Coolock based radio station Near FM. They sold out their debut
paid gig (110 tickets) in 6 minutes in the Setanta GAA Club in Ballymun. Since this they have played in the Grand Social, Liberty Hall, Axis Theatre in Ballymun and now getting ready to play their biggest gig to date in Croke Park as part of the Irish Youth Music Awards (IYMAs) all ages festival on April 22nd.
ALANATIE are a musical trio from Ballyogan formed in 2016 by rapper and pianist Adam Whelan (17), lead vocalist Lana Whelan (14) and drummer Katie Grehan (18). They started writing and practising at The White House, Ballyogan in preparation for IYMA. Before this Katie did tutor workshops with Rónán Ó Snodaigh from Kíla - and the band performed at an intergenerational fundraiser for the She project in Boylan Centre in Dun Laoighaire. They have been writing original songs since September 2016 and are well on course for their performance at the IYMAs in Croker on April 22nd.
BAND: ALANATIE
BAND: NEWKIND
YOUTH CLUB: The White House, Ballyogan
h Resource Centre
YOUTH CLUB: Finglas Yout
NEWKIND is a band that started off with 2 members called James Moran, a beatboxer age 17, and Clayton Cooper, a rapper aged 12. They released an EP ‘Newkind’ in 2016. The newest member Thomas McPartlan is a 16-year-old singer and guitarist. They all met each other in the FYRC and instantly clicked. They wrote a song called “It’s Life” which they have performed in the FYRC which got them through to the Irish Youth Music Awards. They have also performed for the Suicide Awareness event in Finglas and ‘Be a Buddy, not a Bully’ anti Bullying event in the FYRC. The largest crowd they performed
in front of was three thousand people at the Halloween community festival in Finglas. Due to unforeseen circumstances Thomas is unable to perform with his band so Robbie Tomkins has stepped in to fill Thomas`s position as the singer. The song they are going to perform is “It’s not enough”. Robbie likes people to take their own meaning from the song rather than defining it. The young people and youth workers from the FYRC are thrilled to be taking part in the IYMAs and are very excited about showing off some of Finglas musical talent.
Croke Park is the venue for next Saturday’s IYMAs. Picture: CrokePark.ie
BAND: HOSTILE FEELINGS
h Service
YOUTH CLUB: SWAN Yout
SWAN Youth Service and Blackrock College have teamed up this year for the 2017 IYMAs. Since September 2016 the SWAN Youth Service music group along with 7 Blackrock transition year students and their teacher have been meeting weekly to share music skills and work on writing their own original songs together. The SWAN and Blackrock group known as Hostile Feelings is this year is made up of four musicians.
Two are from SWAN Youth Service and two are from Blackrock College. The singers, Sophie Murphy (15) and Tom Dwan (16), both with a passion for singing whether it’s on a stage or on a barge on the canal as part of the ‘5 Lamps Arts Festival’! Jodie Kavanagh (16) plays the Cajon box drum having recently discovered her love of drums and adding the beat to any song. Thomas McCormack (16) is a talented guitarist and artist and modest to boot!
BAND: SOUTHSIDE
ublin West
YOU
osscare D TH CLUB: Cr
SOUTHSIDE are a new 5-piece band composed of Denny Stupakov (26 - saxophone), Jeremy Mazingu (16 - drums), Ryan Cullen (16 - vocalist), Theo Rush (17 - saxophone) and Sam Urwin (17 bass) who all originate from the southside of Dublin. Despite forming the group as strangers to participate in the IYMA, the boys have managed to combine their different styles of music – metal, jazz, hip-hop and pop – to create an eccentric blend of sound never heard before, each of them bringing their own unique and individual sounds and working together to create one sound as one band. The band shares a fiery passion for music as seen through their electric performances on stage and continue to show this through their original music. The band since their creation has had some impressing performances, both of these being at the Megabyte Night’s Open Mic and Youth Café in the Lucan Youth Centre and they are extremely excited to be the representing CrossCare Dublin West this year and can’t wait to play Croke Park on April 22nd.
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18 GAZETTE 13 April 2017
DUBLINLIFE
Co-lab creates a beautiful sole
EMMA NOLAN Style Editor
ONE of Grafton Street’s newest addition – & Other Stories – has collaborated with footwear brand TOMS and the results are toe-rrific! The new co-lab sees new interpretations of TOMS styling along with a ready-to-wear collection and a campaign fronted by model Erin Wasson. Four of TOMS’ classic shoe styles are transformed with colours and prints by & Other Stories: the classic TOMS Alpargata (the slip-on style that started it all), the Lexie
(which is TOMS’ signature summer sandal), and two completely new styles: the Deconstructed Alpargata (with a minimalist structure in a soft suede treatment), and the Palmera Chukka (moccasininspired lace-up booties). The best part is the news that with every pair of shoes purchased, TOMS will give a new pair of shoes to a child in need. Materials and colours applied to these styles can also be seen incorporated throughout the ready-towear selection. Georgine Le Toqueux, designer at & Other Stories, said: “The giv-
ing aspect of this co-lab gives it an extra dimension. “Inspired by TOMS’ idea that two strangers on either sides of the planet or the street, can enrich each other’s lives, we created this collection. “The goal was to combine modern shapes and embellishment that feel authentic with beautiful details, putting a lot of love into it.” This collection is available now from & Other Stories Grafton Street, and also online.
STYLE
M50MOTORING The Dublin Gazette drives you through the motoring world on a tour of the latest models, technology & industry news
The new generation Volkswagen Golf has landed at Dublin Volkswagen dealerships with the entry price of €20,895 for the smooth 1.0 litre TSI petrol version
SSANGYONG UNVEILS THE NEW REXTON KOREAN car maker SsangYong unveiled a new and more stylish Rexton SUV at the recent Seoul Motor Show. This new SUV also claims a great driving experience, high levels of safety and new technology. This latest Rexton comes with a 2.2 litre turbo-diesel engine with full-time four-wheel-drive and a seven speed MercedesBenz design automatic transmission. The launch of the car took place in the company of Anand Mahindra, chairman of Mahindra & Mahindra, the Indian company that now owns 73% of the SsangYong Motor brand. SsangYong claims that the new Rexton will be one of the safest cars in its class, with nine airbags including knee-airbag for the driver and side-airbags in the rear.
GAZETTE
13 April 2017 GAZETTE 19
NEW GOLF UNVEILED
THE updated Volkswagen Golf has gone on sale in Volkswagen dealerships across Dublin with subtle revised styling, more technology, improved connectivity and a revised engine line-up. The starting price for the updated Golf is €20,895. This latest Golf comes with new LED rear lights as standard across the range. Most of the models across the new Golf hatchback and estate models are now offered with a new generation of larger and more sophisticated touch screen infotain-
ment systems. The new Golf claims to be heavy on technical innovation with the new Discover Navigation Pro radio-navigation and online system featuring gesture control. This system features a large 9.2-inch screen and sits alongside the Active Info Display which is standard on all Highline and Performance Golf models. There is also a larger range of online services and apps available. The Irish line-up retains the familiar Trendline, Comfortline and Highline
specification. Volkswagen in Ireland claims that the majority of customers now opting for the Highline specification thanks to Volkswagen’s 5.9% APR on Trendline, 3.9% on Comfortline and 1.9% on Highline, GTI, GTD and R models.
Attractive
Volkswagen is also offering a series of Innovation Packs with the new Golf, which bundle some of the most popular and attractive options into packages, that claim savings of €1,100
over the individual items within the current 171 offer. Following a short drive the car that most impresses is the 1.0 litre TSI model that comes with a turbocharged petrol engine that’s both smooth to drive, has ample power for city driving and now proves economical to own. The new e-Golf fully electric car is also a new competitive electric city with all the benefits of modern Gold styling and a competitive entry price of €34,890 after all government supports.
Nissan begins search for new ‘Generation Next’ car ambassadors NISSAN has launched a nationwide search to find 10 new car ambassadors to follow in the footsteps of Irish rowing stars Paul and Gary O’Donovan. The successful applicants will get to drive a brand new, taxed and insured Nissan of their choice for one year as Nissan Generation Next ambassadors, following in the footsteps of the famous Skibbereen brothers. The Nissan Generation Next car ambassador programme supports people from all walks of life who could use a new Nissan car or van to follow their dream and to realise their potential of becoming Ireland’s next
Irish rowing stars Paul and Gary O’Donovan
generation of leaders and champions. It presents an opportunity for young entrepreneurs, innovators, rising sports stars, musicians, artists, chefs and anyone who is
passionate about what they do to get ahead on their journey to success with the backing and support of Nissan. “We believe in the power of today’s generation of young Irish people to compete and to succeed on the world stage and we are proud to support them and to back what they do,” said James McCarthy, CEO of Nissan Ireland. Nissan Generation Next has already helped 30 inspirational ambassadors to overcome obstacles and to achieve their goals, including the two O’Donovan brothers whom it supported throughout the course of their remarkable journey to Olympic, Euro-
pean and World Championship success. Applicants can apply online at www.nissangenerationnext.ie up to Wednesday, May 17, 2017. Family and friends can also make applications on behalf of individuals whom they consider to be an ideal Nissan Generation Next ambassador. A shortlist of 20 candidates will be announced soon after and put forward to a public vote. The seven individuals generating the largest number of votes will win a place on the Nissan Generation Next ambassador programme. The judges at Nissan will select three of the remaining candidates to join them.
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20 GAZETTE 13 April 2017
M50MOTORING
Optima enhances style, FASTNews space and performance Toyota tops the first quarter market
Kia upgraded the large Optima SW estate car for 2017 with improved economy and enhanced design, while retaining the seven year warranty offer and value for money label as Michael Moroney found out on his recent test drive. KIA’S new Optima SW estate car is sleeker and more modern than before. This is a car that challenges the established larger estate cars with a combination of modern looks, low running costs and value for money. On its own, the new Kia Optima SW has certain appeal; the car looks modern, it drives well and its value for money relative to the likes of the Ford Mondeo, Toyota Avensis or Volkswagen Passat. This is the market segment that the Optima SW and its related Hyundai i40 SW both trade in but at a slightly more competitive price offering. While the Kia name has been linked to the seven year warranty offer, there’s more to owning a car than that alone. You have to like getting into the car, like its styling because for many people it’s the place where you can spend up to 20% of your life. The full upgrade for the new Optima SW has enhanced the appeal of the car. The international Red Dot design team voted the Optima design one of the best modern cars for 2016. I agree largely with their view and I love the slightly devious look of the front grille in the Optima. Somehow it reminds me of a cartoon caricature of a smiling shark so there is a slightly humorous look to the car that sort of
pleased me every time that I approached it. Apart from the new look, Kia has done some serious work under the skin of the new Optima SW. Its lighter and claimed to be stronger and safer due to the use of more higher grade steel in its manufacture. The internal look of the car is very modern and airy. The dash is slightly lower than some of the competition giving a great frontal view. It’s very clean and uncluttered with a large central screen to house the information and sat-nav system. Personally, I prefer a slightly higher dash, but that’s my own prejudice. The infotainment system works well and is very easy to navigate, with simple set-up for the Bluetooth mobile phone connection. The car feels spacious with ample headroom in the rear. The leather affect seats were comfortable, with durable and washable rear covers on the rear front seats that are easy to keep clean. The glove box is big but there are not too many other large storage areas. The electronic handbrake was easy to get used to and included the hill hold facility for easier hill starting. The rear visibility is reasonable and reversing is helped by the standard reversing camera system
WHILE Toyota was the leading car brand for sales for the first three months of 2017, Ford is claiming the market leadership for new car and van sales combined. The latest figures show that 29,610 new cars were registered in Dublin for the first three months of 2017, a massive 39% of the national market but a 1.7% dip on last year’s levels comThe new generation Kia Optima SW is a spacious and more stylish estate car with an impressive economy performance and good comfort coupled with a large and flexible boot space. Prices start from €29,950 for the entry level EX models.
pared with the national decline of 8.31%. Toyota sold 7,507 new passenger vehicles in the first quarter of 2017. Toyota claims that overall hybrid sales rose to 26% of total Toyota sales in 2017, up from 12% in the same period last year.
The dash on the new Kia Optima is uncluttered and simple.
Kia Optima SW EX 1.7
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine 1.7-litre Engine power 141hp 0 – 100km/hr 10.2 seconds Economy 23km/litre (4.4/100km or 64mpg) Fuel Tank Capacity 70 litres CO2 emissions 113g/km Road Tax Band A4 €200 Main Service 20,000km/12 months Euro NCAP Rating 5 star (2015) Warranty 7 years /100,000km Entry Price €29,950 that transmits on the large central info screen. The improved 1.7-litre turbo-diesel engine is claimed to be more economical and gives slightly more power up from 136bhp to 141bhp. The car has more engine torque to give better acceleration,
making its slightly faster than some of the competition. Kia use what they call the Idle Stop & Go (ISG) engine stop/start system on all models and this they claim has reduced the CO2 emissions levels by 14% to 110g/km.
The Optima has an improved 1.7 litre turbo-diesel engine that delivers 141bhp and 340Nm of torque
Ford had a combined van and car sales tally of 10,292 vehicles for
The rated fuel economy level has also improved to 23km/litre (4.4/100km or 64mpg) which is very competitive. Add the two together and you get a low running cost car. I found that this rated fuel economy figure was not possible to achieve on the road; my performance figure was about 40% poorer at 17km/litre. This is a realistic figure and I was impressed that the 70-litre capacity fuel tank, one of the largest in the segment, meant that the car was able for a range of more than 1,000km before a refill. If you are an outdoor person that uses your estate car for towing a boat you’ll note that the Optima’s towing rating is low at 1.5 tonnes compared to the German competition
while the boot space is also smaller. Kia fit a space saver spare wheel in there, which is a benefit. The entr y price is €29,950 which is real value when you look at the specification of the car, even relative to the Hyundai i40. This is just €2,000 over the entry price for the saloon car version. The entry level Optima SW EX model comes very well equipped with satnav, auto light control, rain sensor wipers and reversing camera included in the package, along with 17-inch alloy wheels. The seven-year Kia warranty is the other appeal factor that you just can’t dismiss and now there are new performance levels and better road holding to add to the driving pleasure.
the first three months of 2017. That was made up of 7,357 new car registrations and 2,935 commercial vehicle (CV) registrations. In terms of the top selling cars for March, Ford had two entries in the 10 top-selling models for the month with Focus (510 units) and Fiesta (477 units) coming in at sixth and seventh place respectively (see listing below).
Top Selling Car Models March
Units
1 Nissan Qashqai
899
2 BMW 5 Series
753
3 Hyundai Tucson 627 4 Skoda Octavia 539 5 VW Golf
515
6 Ford Focus
510
7 Ford Fiesta
477
13 April 2017 GAZETTE 21
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M50MOTORING
FASTNews
With the recent rise in the popularity of smart phones, nearly half, 49% of drivers say they regularly use their phone for accessing their social media profiles while driving
Half of drivers want a mobile phone driving block MOBILE phone use behind the wheel continues to be a significant problem on Ireland’s roads but a new survey of Irish motorists reveals that nearly half of drivers (46%) would support the introduction of technology to disable certain phone functions for the sake of safety. More than one in four respondents (26%) felt that some form of blocking device would be more effective at deterring mobile phone use than the introduction of harsher penalties. The survey of Irish motorists for Continental
Joe Duffy Motors opens new Jaguar Land Rover showroom
JOE DUFFY Jaguar Land Rover recently celebrated the launch of its new 30,000 sq/ft showroom at Airside Motor Retail Park, Swords, with a special event attended by 300 loyal customers, local VIPs and Jaguar Land Rover enthusiasts. The new showroom claims to offer Jaguar Land Rover customers a premium sales and ownership experience. Over the last six months, the Joe Duffy showroom has been transformed into a landmark building in the local community with an eye-catching design, featuring free wi-fi, a coffee bar and a relaxed loungestyle waiting area.
Tyres’ Vision Zero initiative, a commitment to reduce
Joe Duffy Motors new Jaguar Land Rover 30,000 sq/ft showroom at Airside Motor Retail Park, Swords, Co. Dublin
road fatalities worldwide, also highlighted that more
Luxurious
than half of drivers (54%) admit to regularly using
Joe Duffy customers are now treated to the full range of Jaguar Land Rover vehicles with sixJaguars and six Land Rovers on display. There are more parking spaces compared with the old site, as well as a modern and luxurious design
their mobile phone while behind the wheel. Some other key findings from the survey include: · More than one third (36%) of respondents feel that mobile phone use is ‘normalised’ as so many people are doing it · 23% of drivers say they find it difficult to be disconnected from their mobiles for any length of time · 62% feel it is OK to use a phone in stopped or slow moving traffic versus 22% who said it is illegal to use a phone in any traffic situation
Tougher car approval rules proposed by EU EUROPEAN lawmakers
law has yet to be finalized
endorsed tougher draft
between EU lawmakers,
regulations last week
the European Commission
for the approval of new
and individual member
cars sold in the European
states.
Union. The rules are aimed
Under the proposed new regulations, car com-
at tackling conflicts of
panies would no longer
interest between national
directly pay car exhaust
regulators and their
testing agencies. The plan
domestic manufactur-
is that in future individual
ers to avoid a repeat of
EU countries would have
the Volkswagen Group
to fund car exhaust test-
emissions-cheating
ing centres by levying car
scandal.
companies. Each year
The European Parlia-
EU member states would
ment voted for the draft
have to test at least 20%
bill, which would allow
of the car models placed
Brussels to fine car
on the market in their
manufacturers up to
country in the previous
€30,000 per vehicle. The
year.
developed with the help of architecture firm Taylor Design Architects. The Joe Duffy Jaguar Land Rover showroom is the first dealership to launch Jaguar Land Rover’s new corporate identity and design in Ireland. This will be rolled out
across the retail network in Ireland over the next 12 months. Gavin Hydes, managing director at Joe Duffy Group said: “This €8.5m investment is another essential step in our growth plans for Joe Duffy Jaguar Land Rover. It fur-
Euro NCAP marks 20th anniversary of lifesaving crash testing THIS year Euro NCAP, the European car crash testing organisation is celebrating more than 20 years of operations. The organisation claims that more than 78,000 lives have been saved since Euro NCAP’s tough crash safety tests were first launched. Euro NCAP has published over 630 safety ratings, crash-tested some 1,800 cars and collectively spent over €160 million to make cars safer. The first tests exposed safety failings in top-selling family cars, forcing a fundamental rethink in the way vehicles were designed to prevent accidents and save lives. Twenty years on, nine-out-of-10 cars sold on the European market hold a Euro NCAP rating and the motor industry actively supports the development of new requirements for the top safety ratings. Today, the results of crash tests of two family cars built 20 years apart underline the huge advances in vehicle safety since 1997. Safety technologies that were non-existent or optional at most – such as driver and passenger airbags, side protection airbags, belt reminders and electronic stability control, are now standard on all cars sold in Europe.
ther demonstrates our commitment to Jaguar Land Rover, their confidence in us and our strategy to provide first class facilities for our Jaguar and Land Rover customers.” Gerard O’Farrell, managing director of Jaguar
Land Rover Ireland, said: “Jaguar Land Rover is enjoying a period of rapid growth and a considerable part of our success is down to our excellent retailers. Joe Duffy Group’s stunning new showroom is a great addition to our retail network.”
One in 10 cars hit advertised economy figures – UK consumer research ONE of the UK’s leading consumer-led motoring websites HonestJohn.co.uk, has analysed 118,000 real fuel economy fuel reports, submitted by UK drivers, and they found that an average car now uses 24% more fuel than it should, according to its advertised economy figure. They found that the BMW X5 was the UK’s worst performing car for real economy, achieving 66.9% of its advertised fuel economy, followed by the Land Rover Discovery Sport and Audi A4 with a respective 67.5% and 68.3%. The Volvo XC90 (68.5%) and Fiat 500X (69.6%) complete the bottom five cars on sale right now for real world economy, according to the consumer lead survey. At the opposite end of the scale the analysis showed that the latest
Mazda MX-5 to be the UK’s best real economy performer, with an average of 101.5%. In second place was the Toyota Verso (99.5%) followed closely by the Toyota GT86, with a real world fuel economy of 98.4%. The final entries in the top five are the Subaru Forester (97.1%) and Peugeot Partner Tepee (92.9%). Real world
From September 2017, the current NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) test for new cars will be replaced with the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP). However, while the WLTP should be more reflective of real world driving conditions and involve longer distances and higher speeds, it will still be laboratorybased.
13 April 2017 GAZETTE 23
TRAVEL NEWS
TRAVEL
GAZETTE
DUBLINLIFE
THE MED: SUNWAY SERVE UP SOME APRIL DEALS FOR SUNSEEKERS
Go north: A new-found love for the wilds of Donegal’s Malin Head JESSICA MAILE
WHERE I grew up, heading up north was almost always a good thing. It meant fresher air, less people and a wildness that soothed the soul. This is what I hoped I would feel as I made my way up to Malin Head on the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal, which is one of the gems of the Wild Atlantic Way. Malin Head had to be all of these things because it is as far north as you can go on mainland and it certainly didn’t disappoint! The Inishowen Peninsula offers stunning beaches, such as Pollan Beach
Whether you’re after a sunkissed landscape with crystal-clear waters that was once home to the Gods or a modern, vibrant culture, Cyprus delights
in Ballyliffin, where
A sizzling sun holiday awaits you in Cyprus
you can search for your very own semiprecious stones and Five Finger Strand. There are also plenty of ancient sites to visit on the Inishowen Heritage Trail. The tiny village of Malin Head itself is a great place to stay. The views of the Atlantic are spectacular and the residents are very friendly. Farren’s Bar “Ireland’s Most Northerly Bar” was a hot-spot for cast and crew during filming last year of a movie you may have heard of. What’s it called again? Oh yes, Star Wars: Episode VIII. Although there were many places to see and things to do, walking to the tip of Malin Head was top priority. Just a five-minute drive led us to a a 19th-century signal tower that was built by the British in 1805 as a Napoleonic lookout tower to help defend against a possible French invasion. From there, we followed the path to Hell’s Hole (not a comforting name whilst walking along steep sea cliffs, and then on to the official end of the path. We were greeted with signs saying “continue at your own risk” and continue we did and it was worth the risk. The views of the cliffs, the noise of the sea birds, the crashing of the waves and knowing there was nothing beyond where you stood but a whole lot of ocean and then North America! And that view is what Malin Head is all about!
The extraordinary Pollan Beach in Ballyliffin where you can search for semi-precious stones and (top) the walking path at the tip of Malin Head
NOW that Spring is finally well and truly on the way, it seems that Summer is just around the corner – and with Sunway holidays, it is! The travel operators are offering a great range of sun-kissed holidays in Cyprus, where holidaymakers can enjoy a Summer feeling this April. An island that is rich in history and culture, and packed with wonderful experiences that are just waiting to be enjoyed, there are very many memorable things about Cyprus. From its wide choice of hotels and sandy beaches, Cyprus has something for everyone. This month, Sunway’s April packages (below) include flights, accommodation, transfers, 20kg baggage per person, the services of a Sunway representative and all taxes and charges, with holidays from €599pp, with all of the deals below departing Saturday, April 22. Ayia Napa Once a quaint fishing village, Ayia Napa is now
better known as a tourist haven. The resort boasts three long, white sandy beaches – the most famous of which is Nissi Beach and the crystal waters are the resort’s big draw. There is a stunning 16th century Venetian monastery that overlooks the harbour in Ayia Napa town, and although this is the backdrop to the resort, Ayia Napa is firmly in the 21st century. S t ay a t the Rio Gardens (2-Star) for 7 nights, self-catering, from €599pp. Stay at the Napa Plaza Hotel (4-Star) with a Superior room for 7 nights, bed and breakfast, from from €689pp. Stay at the Nissiana Hotel/bungalows (3-Star) for 7 nights, halfboard, from €699pp. Limassol Limassol is the island’s second largest city, and the island’s main port and a
bustling holiday resort. T he city fans out between two of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Cyprus, which were built on clifftops with spectacular views. The main hub of activity takes place around the busy 10-mile seafront which is dotted with an abundance of bars, tavern-
as and excellent shopping. Stay at the Estella Hotel Apts (2-Star) for 7 nights, self-catering, from €599pp. Stay at the Kapetanios Odyssia Hotel (3-Star) for 7 nights, half-board. from €749pp. Stay at the Mediterranean Hotel (4-Star) for 7 nights, bed and breakfast, from €869pp. Protaras Protaras is an ideal holi-
day location for families and couples alike. Famous for its long stretches of sandy beaches and crystalclearwater, Protaras comes into bloom in the springtime and has its very own flower festival. Enjoy the natural beauty of the area on many hiking trails, sample local cuisine in one of its many tavernas or restaurants, dance the night away at one of the local discos or visit a traditional Bouzouhi club and relax with a glass of excellent local wine. Stay at the Capo Bay Hotel (4-Star+) for 7 nights, bed and breakfast, from €829pp. Stay at the Sunrise Beach Hotel (4-Star) for 7 nights, bed and breakfast, from €844pp. Paphos This resort is split into two regions: Kato Paphos and Tombs of the Kings. Kato Paphos has four beaches and is a busy area
with an attractive harbour and an abundance of outdoor restaurants. In the town centre there are plenty of cafes, bars and live music venues and shops, while 10 minutes away you will find Coral Bay, with its sandy gently shelving beach and a smaller selection of restaurants and bars. One of the main archaeological sites, The Tombs of the Kings, is located midway between these resorts. This is a perfect resort for families, couples and groups of friends looking for both a relaxing and varied holiday. Stay at the Alexander the Great Hotel (4-Star) for 7 nights, bed and breakfast, from €1239pp. Stay at the Elysium Hotel (5-Star) for 7 nights, bed and breakfast, from €1179pp. The prices per person above are based on two sharing, and are subject to availability. For reservations, contact Sunway at 01 2311 800, or book online at www.sunway.ie.
GAZETTE
24 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 April 2017
DUBLINLIFE
ReelReviews
FREE FIRE
Aims for cinema success IT’S not easy to bring something new to the slightly clapped-out shooter genre, but Free Fire (Cert 18, 91 mins) aims to please with its interesting mix of violence, tension and sprinkles of humour. A 1970s-set gun trade between dodgy types in a warehouse soon goes horribly, entertainingly wrong, with barbs and quips flying through the air as much as the bullets.
Ghost in the Shell (the 1995 anime, inset,based on the 1989 manga) is an interesting, pschologically complex examination of the human condition – but the new film starring Scarlett Johansson (above) ... not so much. While the 2017 film is a let down, at least it always looks incredible, with some dazzling CGI adding some superb life to the visuals.
TABLE 19
You’ll go to sit elsewhere RELEASED yonks ago in the States, Table 19 (Cert 12A, 87 mins) finally, quietly slinks in to Dublin cinemas. Mercilessly slated by critics, this tale of wedding guests at the eponymous table collectively realising that they’re the unwanted losers dumped together – but hey, maybe they’re cooler than everyone thinks – is something to swerve around on the way to a better film.
THE BOSS BABY
It’s a bit goo-goo ga-ga SOMETHING of a curate’s egg, Boss Baby (Cert G, 97 mins) is pretty enjoyable thanks to Alec Baldwin’s voiceover work as the titular character, but the plot itself is a mess. There’s an enjoyable enough film here, but it’s hidden behind lashings of unecessary and sometimes confusing plot. Baldwin fans and kids will enjoy it, but everyone else may be left more than a little confused.
GHOST IN THE SHELL: A FEAST FOR THE EYES, A FAMINE FOR THE SOUL
Major disappointment ‘WHITEWASHING’ in Hollywood is no contemporar y phenomenon; from Brando’s turn as Genghis Khan to the recent controversy over Netflix’s Iron Fist, the lexicon of mainstream visual enter tainment has long been vulgarised with a tendency to mash Caucasian stars into roles much more suited to, or written for, actors of an Asian heritage. N a t u r a l l y, w h e n Rupert Sanders’ Ghost in the Shell (Cert 15A, 106 mins) , the Hollywood remake of the acclaimed anime of the same name was first announced, with lead actress Scarlett Johansson taking the role of Major Motoko Kusanagi (now just “The Major”), the news was met with the vitriol of a thousand online think-pieces.
MARTIN MACNAMARA
The news spurred on many necessary conversations on the dangerous trend of whitewashing. In a political and social climate so driven by race relations, you’d think the producers would have had a little more foresight. Still, despite whatever progress the industry has made in recent years, this trend is seemingly showing no signs of dying off. The beloved animated sci-fi from director Mamor u Oshii dealt with themes of selfidentity and humanity in
a hyper-connected world – themes common to the literary world of ‘cyberpunk’. As with most of the d i s t i n c t i ve i m a g e r y from the original, these themes play a large part in this remake. In a future where most humans are augmented with cybernetics, The Major is the first of her kind, built from the ground up as the perfect cyborg soldier, with a human brain encased inside – “the ghost in the shell”. When a terrorist begins hacking into people’s minds and controlling them, The Major is put on the case, along with the rest of her team, Section 9 – led by Chief Aramake (the incredible Takeshi Kitano). Ghost in the Shell is a technical marvel. From
the smallest holographic detail to the most bombastic, CGI-fuelled action sequence, this is a sumptuous display of wonderfully executed, perfectly integrated visual effects. The intro, with Clint Mansell’s mood-perfect sy nth score exper tly adapting the music of the original, re-imagines the opening sequence from said film perfectly; a seamless assimilation of live action and CGI. The cityscape clearly takes notes from Blade Runner and the original source material, but also from Katsuhiro Otomo’s startling anime Akira, the illustrations of Jean ‘Moebius’ Giraud and the heavy sci-fi prose of William Gibson. In a word, it’s visually beautiful – ripped straight out of a cyber-
punk dream. The frame is always on the verge of bursting at the seams. Unfortunately, beyond these incredible visual feats and a few riveting action sequences, Ghost in the Shell has little to offer. For all its manifold layers of sci-fi world-building, this is a shallow experience, narrativity speaking. Its thematic meditations on humanity and identity are extremely cursory. We’re frequently told about the cybernetic “risk to individual identity” and the problematics of “messing with the human soul” yet Ghost in the Shell is altogether soulless. Forgoing the original’s contemplative twist for a conclusion that allows the film to squeeze the whitewashing issue into
the narrative, Ghost in the Shell has nothing new to say about its subject matter. Johansson may be playing a robot, yet although we’re constantly reminded there’s a ‘soul’ in there, she never shows it. Still, Juliette Binoche does an admirable job as her creator, Dr Ouelet, and it’s great to see Kitano fire off a few rounds in some of the latter action sequences. Ghost in the Shell is saved from an otherwise worthless existence with said action sequences and some innovative CGI. One can’t help but wonder, however, how much more mercifully shorter it would have been without all that stylised slow-mo... Verdict: 5/10
13 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 25
PETA have an udder complaint for games
SOMEBODY in PETA likes videogames, a lot. Well, perhaps ‘like’ isn’t quite the right word, but the organisation is definitely keeping tabs on animal welfare in games – whether they’re real animals or not. Following on from PETA, the animal rights organisation, taking assorted pops at various games down the years (with Warcraft seeming to be a particular favourite for repeated PETA criticisms, because as we all know, Orcs and Dwarves should never wear fur from Wargs, or Griffins), Nintendo’s new Switch console has fallen foul of PETA’s ever watchful eye. While a new Switch title ( 1-2-Switch ) may strike gamers as an innocuous party minigame about milking a cow, PETA saw things differently. Very differently. A letter from PETA’s president to Nintendo has some rather sour words about the game – indeed, it complains that “you’ve taken all the cruelty out of milking”, and “can we have some realism here, please”. Unfortunately, Cow Milker 2017 doesn’t seem to exist on the Switch just yet, or on any console or platform. As such, the quest to provide ultra realism in milking games – including replicating “the filthy conditions that cows endure on farms” – so that there’ll be an acceptable critique of modern agricultural practises in an industrialised agri-produce sector (instead of, y’know, giggling with friends as you each jiggle a controller about in a race against the clock) will just have to wait…
GAZETTE
TECH
2016’s greatest games rewarded with Baftas THERE were no great surprises at this year’s Bafta game awards, which rolled out most of the expected winners in their various categories in London last week. First up – at least in my list of some of the bigger Bafta categories here – and to nobody’s surprise, Uncharted 4 continued its juggernaut roll, crushing all opposition to snatch Best Game, with this Bafta surely one of the last remaining awards left on the planet to throw into the developer’s loot cave. However, U4 had to console itself with ‘just’ the top award, as it faced stiffer competition in more specific categories that it was also nominated for. As such, despite U4 bringing two of gaming’s top A-list actor-performers together (Nolan North and Troy Baker), relative unknown Cissy Jones claimed the Performer Bafta for her quick-witted, foul-mouthed and very human role as Delilah in Firewatch.
SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com
Critics (including yours truly) highly praised Firewatch, the debut game from Campo Santo Productions, for its highly naturalistic dialogue and plot, with its confident art style also helping it to blaze a trail to win the Debut Game Bafta. Moving on, and just as with much more passive media, such as TV and cinema, music can play a huge role in any game’s success, with a lot of highly-respected composers quietly plugging away at their trade. Composer Lyndon Holland shyly took the Music Bafta for his great score for the short but sweet Virginia, with his rich, multilayered score impressing many people last year, with it sounding a little like an
orchestral, mid-Western mash-up between Stranger Things and Twin Peaks. Audio Achievement was another category with a particularly strong field of contenders, with The Last Guardian proving the surprise winner. It definitely has a wow factor with its arresting visuals, yet there’s little that’s particularly memorable about its audioscape, compared to the all-out aural assault executed by several of its rival finalists.
Ultimately, as happens every year, the night belongs to one game, and Inside proved the judges’ darling, coming away with a haul of Baftas, including Narrative, Original Property, Artistic Achievement, and Game Design, as well as other category nods. Sporting a bleak, almost monochromatic visual aesthetic and a low-key narrative (at first glance), Inside crafted a brief, dark (both literally and metaphorically) and stark title,
Some of the Bafta winners clockwise from top left: Uncharted 4, Inside, Firewatch and Virginia
shot through with flashes of peril. With such a diverse range of games scooping the Baftas, gaming appears
set to have a bumper year ahead, with plenty of gems to make next year’s Bafta games awards even more interesting.
Ready to surrender social media passwords to visit the US? AT THE time of writing, the Trump administration is still mulling over a new ‘extreme vetting’ policy that, if passed and applied, could make travel to the States problematic for many people, at least on a point of principle. In short, travellers could be asked to hand over their social media passwords and phone contacts for vetting, with the Wall Street Journal quoting administration officials as saying that financial information and ideological information could also be requested. In short, no passwords –
The threat of possibly having to hand over personal passwords to visit the US has sparked unease
no entry, as the boiled-down advice from assorted civil liberties lawyers points out, while being refused entry Stateside
would present a raft of problems for any detained travellers. “Could” is the key word here, as nothing has yet been decided
or confirmed – the idea is floating about, although the US Customs and Border Patrol have already piped up with: “All international travellers arriving to the US are subject to US Customs and Border Protection inspection … “Keeping America safe and enforcing our nation’s laws in an increasingly digital world depends on our ability to lawfully examine all materials entering the US.” While absolutely nobody could begrudge America – or any country – running a thorough border check and main-
taining a vigorous look-out for problematic or potentially dangerous visitors, many people would quite rightfully baulk at handing over such intimate information to a foreign (or domestic) government, not least the vast majority of Irish and other visitors just looking to take a holiday or visit family members in America. If such an extreme vetting gets the go-ahead soon, plenty of visitors are likely to be in for a rude shock when they arrive across the pond, not least those who refuse hand over their precious data. Watch this space ...
26 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 April 2017
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28 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 April 2017
SPORT
FastSport DUBLIN SIDES SWEEP BOARD AT INTERVARSITIES: GRIFFITH College scooped the men’s A title at the 2017 National Basketball Colleges Committee Intervarsities after they came through all of their pool group games unbeaten and continued their impressive form to run out 76-45 point winners over Ulster University. Alex Calvo, Alex Dolenko and Jose Maria Gil Narbon were the stars for the Dublin college throughout the weekend and were hugely impressive once more in the final. Meanwhile, DCU made it a double whammy of wins as, after their men’s side won out over IT Tallaght in the B final, the women’s team were later crowned A champions with a win over IT Carlow in a nail-biting final. Meanwhile, hosts Trinity College Dublin were the first team of the weekend to scoop a cup as they overcame Cork IT in an extremely close and tough women’s B final.
HOCKEY: STUDENTS ADD EYHL TITLE TO IRISH SENIOR CUP SILVERWARE
UCD’s Tice twice on target for second title in six days
STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@dublingazette.com
UCD claimed the women’s EY Hockey League in dramatic fashion last Saturday as Lena Tice struck two penalty corners to inflict a first defeat of the league season on HermesMonkstown, leap-frogging their Dublin rivals on the final day of the campaign. The 2-1 result earns them a European spot and was their second title in six days, adding to the Irish Senior Cup won at Belfield with a 1-0 win over Cork Harlequins. The first quarter was dominated by the visitors who showed their intent from the whistle, forcing several corners but the Hermes keeper Liz Murphy dealt comfortably with the chances created. The home side did force a corner but Clodagh Cassin in the UCD goal saved the corner switch. The home side started to settle in the second quarter, creating opportunities to take the advantage. Cassin pulled off a top class save from a Chloe Watkins corner drag and, just before the end, Nikki Evans showed fantastic skill controlling and
UCD celebrate winning the EY Hockey League. Picture: Adrian Boehm
spinning to shoot on her reverse. With the UCD keeper beaten, the shot pinged the crossbar to deny the home side a half-time lead. Evans did, however, give her side the lead in the 38th minute when good work by Anna O’ Flanagan in the circle, saw her battle out of a tackle to pop the ball left for the finish. UCD now needed to score twice to take
the title and, in the 44th minute, they forced a corner. This time, the ball was cleverly rolled into the circle to allow Tice to apply a devilishly powerful slap that defeated the defensive lines. The students kept pushing on in the closing quarter and were rewarded with 12 minutes to go with what proved to be the crucial goal.
Again, Tice did the damage in the same manner as the first. The home side threw everything at UCD, withdrawing their keeper in the final moments as they chased the equaliser but, on the day, the college side did enough to take the win and the title. Elsewhere, Pembroke completed their great escape from a potential relegation playoff with a 2-0 win over Ulster Elks. In
tandem with Belfast Harlequins 5-1 loss to Loreto, it boosted Pembroke to eighth place on goal difference, ahead of Belfast Harlequins on goal difference. It was their second win in their last three games, adding to a recent success against Ards and they went 1-0 up early on. Erica Markey inspired the first goal when she only had the goalkeeper to beat in the seventh minute but was taken down. A penalty stroke was awarded which was converted by Rachel Scott to open the scoring for the home team, easing the tension. They continued to set the tone in the second quarter when Alice Ward and Erica Hinkson combined well before Markey made it 2-0 in the 31st minute. Eanna Horan set up the attack down the right before Jill Ringwood picked up the pass and crossed to Markey who made no mistake for a 2-0 halftime lead. Into the second half, Pembroke continued to attack and won a penalty corner in the 40th minute. Eanna Horan’s shot on goal was blocked by a defender and the follow-up hit the post.
Dublin Galaxy break into new netball stratosphere BERNARD DUFF sport@dublingazette.com
The Dublin Galaxy side that won the Irish netball final
FORMED just last year, Dublin Galaxy lined out in Tallaght Leisure Centre in Dublin on Saturday afternoon to compete the Irish Netball final against the Cork Rebels, bidding for a first national title. Galaxy are already a force in the Irish game having led the league that preceded the playoffs with both sides looking for their maiden title. Cork captain Wendy Howell made one switch to the starting
seven from the previous week’s 38-36 semi-final win over outgoing champions St Anne’s Dragons whereas Galaxy’s captain Christina Tuataga balanced her team after dismissing Leinster Netball Club 45-32 midweek. She said: “We are made up of varying levels of ability from players who have played internationally to those who had never played competitively before. So, it makes things complicated when deciding combinations. Many of us used to play socially before the club was formed but now it’s competitive, they love it.”
A tight first quarter ended with Rebels two down (14-12) as both attacks found their range. It was the second quarter that proved decisive as Galaxy pulled out to an eight goal half time lead (2719) after Galaxy’s Tania Rosser – a former Irish rugby international – found space at wing attack to feed Tuataga at goal attack. Cork rallied in the third quarter which was goal-on-goal. Going into the fourth quarter, Galaxy led 40-31. Despite eight last quarter goals by Cork’s Alesha Clarke, who finished with stats of 31 goals from 36 attempts, it wasn’t enough
as Galaxy prevailed 51-41. Player of the Match was Tuataga after scoring 43 from 54 shots. Afterwards, Tuataga said “I am really delighted with our team. We’ve had a huge squad this year and we did that purposely because to bring up beginners and those of low experience, they need to be playing alongside well versed players”. As for the following season? “Watch this space” she said with the victor’s grin. Earlier, the Division 2 title went to Finglas club St Michael’s NC, defeating UCD 28-19.
13 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 29
GAZETTE
FASTSport
Hyland hits high notes at record-breaking gala Dublin swimmers produce series of superb performances to notch up a string of national titles with Tallaght’s Brendan Hyland beating the Irish best in the 100m and 200m butterfly sport@dublingazette.com
Ballyboden St Enda’s launch an Poc Fada
Boden’s Poc Fada in bid to challenge Cuala reign STEPHEN FINDLATER
DAVID CURTIN and a number of his teammates including Dublin star Niall McMorrow helped to launch Ballyboden St Enda’s new Poc Fada last week, with the aim of raising money for the club’s large hurling section. The Poc Fada contest will take place along the River Dodder where it runs alongside the Ballyboden St Enda training pitches and clubhouse, and carries a GAA themed prize from the accompanying €5 raffle tickets: a helicopter ride to Croke Park on All Ireland Final day (a choice of football or hurling), plus two premium tickets to the match, a night’s hotel accommodation in Dublin and dinner on the day of the game. Curtin spoke to the Gazette on the day of the launch, telling us “With the opening of the new pitch, we’re doing something in conjunction with it. Across the road [from the clubhouse] there’s an old country lane, and the river running alongside it. For the Poc Fada they’ll be starting from one end of the lane and going to the other. It’s traditionally up and down the hill, but the idea of it is a lot of fun. It’s who can get there in the least shots, and it’ll be the first year of it. “Hopefully, this gets a lot of support, and it’ll be a runner every year. It’s a huge club here, but a huge club has a lot of financial expenses. Every team needs fundraising, all clubs need to do it whether it be a junior team, intermediate team or senior team. “This kind of idea has a bit of fun attached to them, and we hope to sell a few tickets with a fantastic prize alongside it all.” Curtin also spoke about Ballyboden’s chances in the Championship this year, pointing out that the club’s seniors lost to eventual All Ireland club title winners Cuala narrowly last time out, taking them to extra time, and feel that having been drawn in the same group as the Dalkey club, they have a real shot at beating them. Ballyboden open with Cuala at Parnell Park on April 29, with fixtures against Faugh’s and Crumlin in May. The Poc Fada - and draw for the association competition - will take place on July 1.
TALLAGHT swimming club’s Brendan Hyland provided some of the highlights of the Irish Open Swimming Championships at the National Aquatic Centre, featuring among a number of record breakers at the event. All told, there were 10 new senior records and seven new junior records from the gala with Hyland leading the way with a couple of best times. On day one, he produced an Irish best in the 200m butterfly. In so doing, he took over half a second off his own record. It was his fastest time in three years clocking 1.58.08 in Thursday evening’s final, securing his fifth consecutive national title in the event. Ellen Walshe of Tem-
pleogue won the women’s event in 2.16.43, swimming under the consideration time for both World and European Junior Championships. In the men’s 50 breaststroke race, UCD’s Darragh Greene touched in 28.08 to win gold. Greene had entered the final as top seed after a preliminary swim of 28.00 which was under consideration for the World University Games. Into day two, from a Dublin perspective, Trojan’s Ben Griffin took the gold in the 400m individual medley with a swim of 4.29.41, winning by four seconds over the rest of the field. On Saturday, Hyland came back to the fore on the penultimate night of the gala. He reclaimed the 100m Butterfly Irish record in the final.
The Tallaght swimmer blasted a 53.26 second swim to take down Conor Brines record from earlier this year. Brines of Larne Swimming Club touched second in 54.13 seconds. A thrilled Hyland said “I was delighted with the 200m to get back on track, it was three years coming and I’m really happy I stepped up in the 100m tonight. I love to race, looking at the other Butterfly results from Dave McCullagh [February] made me put my head down and get focused for this weekend.” In the women’s 100m butterfly final, UCD’s Shauna O’Brien was just off her Irish record, winning in a time of 1.00.41. Te m p l e o g u e ’s E l l e n Walshe was second in a European Juniors consideration time of 1.01.60. Closing out the gala in
the men’s 800m freestyle final Aer Lingus’ Nathan Turner and Finn McGeever battled throughout with just eight hundredths of a second separating them
for the athletes and their coaches. The standard of swimming across the board has exceeded all expectations and we have a number of world class
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‘It was three years coming and I’m really happy I stepped up to the 100m. I love to race!’ - Brendan Hyland -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
in the end. It was Turner who eventually took gold in 8.30.03 with McGeever clocking 8.30.89. Swim Ireland’s new National Performance Director Jon Rudd was impressed by this weekend’s swimming, commenting: “This has been a wonderful four days for Swim Ireland, particularly
athletes within our midst. “I sense already something of a culture shift; fast heats, faster finals, a sense of urgency and focus on deck. We’re gaining momentum in such a short space of time and once you get something moving in such a positive fashion, you can only go from strength to strength.”
Ellen Walshe,left, from Templeogue Swim Club on her way to winning the Open Women’s 200m Butterfly final while, right, Tallaght’s Brendan Hyland celebrates one of his two national records over the weekend. Pictures: Seb Daly/Sportsfile
GAZETTE
30 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 April 2017
SPORT
FASTSport
SOCCER: SWORDS WOMAN CAPTAINS TEAM IN EUROPEAN ELITE ROUND
Swords woman Jamie Finn in action for Ireland’s Under-19s
Finn leads Irish Under-19s Hide hit for six to stay in Sunday Senior division MALAHIDE United remain in a dangerous position in the LSL Sunday Senior division following a heavy 6-0 loss to title chasing Bluebell United at the Red Cow The Gannon Park side sit in tenth place after their unbeaten run of three games came to an end in emphatic fashion. Malahide have two points to spare over the side in the drop zone with six games remaining. The upshot of this win is that Bluebell now sit four points off leaders Mochta’s but with a game in hand and some momentum. Incredibly, the Malahide tie at Red Cow was scoreless at half-time before Andy Noonan’s side belatedly found their form. They soon broke the deadlock when Sean Byrne skilfully play in Karl Russell, who was moved from his usual right back spot to fill in at left back. He crossed into the danger zone where the ball took a heavy deflection up and over the visiting goalkeeper. Two minutes later, Stephen Larkin won the ball deep in Malahide territory and played Shane Stritch through to make it 2-0. Gareth Cooney got the third when he gobbled up a rebound from Stritch’s initial shot to tap in. David Scully then added a fourth the former League Of Ireland player volleyed home to register his first goal for the club. Bluebell’s fifth was a well worked team goal which was finished off by Stephen Larkin. The former Sheriff attacker got another late on when the ball played back to the keeper bobbled up over his foot and trickled towards the goal and Larkin followed in to tap into an empty net.
sport@dublingazette.com
SWORDS’ Jamie Finn captained the Republic of Ireland Under-19 side as they battled it out in the UEFA Women’s Under19 Championship Elite Round this week. They fell to Scotland 2-1 before bouncing back to beat Ukraine 2-0, leaving them in a big battle with Finland that ultimately ended in a 3-1 defeat on Sunday. Nonetheless, Ireland produced their best 45 minutes of the elite round in the opening half. With the numerical advantage in midfield, Roma McLaughlin, Lucy McCa-
rtan and Alex Kavanagh dictated play and controlled the tempo. Speaking after the game, Head Coach Dave Connell said he felt the scoreline didn’t reflect the game at all. He explained: “It was a funny game. Hitting the woodwork four times and creating a couple of really good clearcut chances that we failed to put away - we were unlucky. “There was no way that was a 3-1, even the Finnish manager said it. The difference was that they put their chances away.” Connell’s charges created a glorious opportunity just six minutes into
RATE OF KNOTS Van Gelderen regains Irish national top speed TWENTY-seven time national champion, in
both waves and slalom, Oisin van Gelderen finally regained the Irish national speed record on a windsurfing board. Setting a speed of 42.14 knots (78.043 kph), the Loughshinney man has beaten John Kenny’s record by 1.7 knots. The world record is 52.67 knots, held by Frenchman Antione Albeau. Having been in La Palme in the South of France for the last four weeks with the top 15 sailors in the world, van Gelderen’s sheer determination has paid off.
the contest, when brilliant feet from Alex Kavanagh afforded her space to slip Leanne Kieran through on goal. Her effor t appeared goalbound but rattled the underside of the crossbar, and was eventually cleared by the Finnish backline. Despite the excellent start, Finland hit the front on twenty-six minutes. A corner from the righthand-side was delivered into the danger area. Juuli Ketola rose highest to head towards goal and her effort smacked off the underside of the crossbar. The assistant referee on the near side indicated the ball had crossed the line,
much to the dismay of Ireland ‘keeper Amanda McQuillan. Leanne Kiernan had a great chance to level matters early in the second half when she charged down the right. Her shot could only find the sidenetting though. From here, Ireland were punished. Emmaliina Tulkki’s cross from the left found Eveliina Summanen at the back post and her low drive beat McQuillan. Five minutes later, they would move further ahead. Breaking from an Ireland corner, Jutta Rantala gained possession shy of the halfway line. From here, she jinked past a
defender before smashing a brilliant strike into the far corner to put the result beyond doubt. Niamh Prior ended the campaign on a positive note however - giving the Markets Field crowd a moment to remember when her thirty-five yard free kick rocketed into the net with three minutes left on the clock. Roma McLaughlin was dismissed in injury time after receiving a second yellow from Croatian referee Ivana Martincic. Connell believed that while they didn’t achieve their overall goal of qualification, his players deserve a lot of credit.
13 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 31
GAZETTE
GO GAMES
Wild Geese hit Croker for Provincial Days
CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS NO SMOKING Club: Signage will be going
WILD Geese’s young charges were on hand
the launch the Go Games Provincial Days partnership with Littlewoods Ireland in Croke Park in Dublin on Monday. The GAA Go Games provincial days is an initiative which sees 7,000 children take part in mini versions of hurling and football blitzes at Croke Park over a fortnight in April. Littlewoods Ireland will provide a Go Games jersey and boot bag to each child.
Bar at Easter: The club bar will open
smoking zone. It will also include Bal-
at 2pm each day. There will be live music
heary, Kettles Lane and Holywell areas.
in the bar on Easter Sunday evening
There will be two designated areas
with Charlie D from 7.30pm. This will be
adjoining the club bar and hall for smok-
followed by Family Fortunes with DJ
ers. The new rules will be policed by
Tommo.
members from May 1. Feile Boys 2017: Congratulations and well done both of the U-14 teams on their
FOOTBALL: INJURY TIME GOAL EARNS FIRST FEILE WIN
Football Championships: Seniors v Skerries on Friday, April 21 at 7pm in
They topped their groups and were nar-
Garristown, Junior A on Sunday, April
rowly beaten in the semi-final.
23 v Round Tower, Clondalkin at 11am at
Athletic Update: A great start to the season for our sprinter Sarah Murray
members and players’ parents for all
over the weekend. She won the 100m
their help in hosting the Division 8 Feile.
final at the national Uni Track and Field
But, most importantly, all the support
in Cork. She then helped DCU win the
and encouragement that was given to
4x100m relay.
SKERRIES Harps produced an historic first for the club as they claimed their first ever Feile Peil na nÓg last Sunday in Parnell Park as they won a hotly contested final against Na Fianna on a 2-5 to 1-6 scoreline. It capped a brilliant weekend for the coastal club as they negotiated a tough initial group stage on Saturday before undoing Kilmacud Crokes in the semi-final to set up the decider.
They opened the competition in hugely impressive style on home turf, hosting Group A with a 2-12 to 1-5 win over St Vincent’s before sweeping by the challenge of Ballyboden St Enda’s 1-9 to 0-6. Their one glitch came in their final group game against St Sylvester’s, edged out 3-5 to 4-4. Nonetheless, they had already done enough to advance to the knockout stages with a game to spare, going through with Vincent’s. The semi-final was very closely knit, again at Townparks, against Kil-
macud but they eventually prevailed on a 1-5 to 0-6 scoreline. And so to Parnell Park where Na Fianna made the early running, notching the first two scores of the final and they went on to carry a 0-3 to 0-2 lead into the half-time break with Tom Brennan wreaking havoc at full forward. He went on to put the Glasnevin side in an imposing position when he crashed home a goal for a four-point lead midway through the second half. Skerries, though, summoned an outstanding fightback to suddenly snatch the momentum
and, ultimately, the title. Skipper Eoin Wilde served notice of attacking intent when he rattled the crossbar from a penalty before he got a deserved goal to put the game back in the mix. His point put Harps in front by a point soon after and while Na Fianna equalised soon after, Wilde was able to find yet another opening – from Eoghan O’Connor Flanagan’s pass – to net the pivotal second goal in injury time. He had lots to do when he picked the ball up but weaved in from the left sideline to crown the victory in brilliant fashion.
Lotto: numbers drawn were 2, 5, 16,
Good Friday: The clubhouse, bar, gym
25 and 27. We had three winners – Mary
and dressing room facilities will all be
Kavanagh, Michael O’Scanaill agus Eddie
closed for the day.
and Tommy who won €1,351 each. The
ST FINIAN’S
2-5 1-6
Palmerstown away at 3pm.
ity throughout the day. Also to our club
Car Park: Please be aware of the new
Skerries Harps Na Fianna sport@dublingazette.com
home and also the Junior D v St Pat’s
Division 2 Feile and for their hospital-
all the players in both venues.
FEILE DIVISION 1 FINAL
29 at 6pm (away at Mobhi Road).
and Division 8 football Feile on Saturday.
thank you to Erin’s Isle for hosting the
Wilde celebrations for historic Harps
Intermediate Hurling Championship: Na Fianna v Fingallians on Saturday, April
superb performances in the Division 2
The mentors would like to give a big
Skerries Harps celebrate their maiden Division 1 Feile victory on the final whistle in Croke Park.
layout on entry and exit.
up this week declaring the club a no
jackpot on Tuesday will be €2,532.
IT WAS a successful weekend for the
usual times, 10am and 11.30am respec-
adult hurling teams. The AHL4 team beat
tively.
St Maur’s on Saturday in Ridgewood with
A reminder that the club is hosting
Adam O’Shaughnessy finding the net and
a Child Protection in Sport Awareness
Shane O’Brien getting an impressive
(CPSA) course on Tuesday, April 18 at
tally of 10 points.
7pm in the clubhouse. It is mandatory
The AHL9 team beat Erin’s Isle in Fing-
for all coaches and mentors and those
las on Sunday in a very close encounter
working with children to complete this
with crucial late scores from Matt Mur-
course. Please email the Club Childrens
ray and Barry Shelly.
Officer Sharon Callanan at sharcall48@
Well done to the adult camogie team
gmail.com to register your interest. The
who played their first league match on
course is being run by the county board
Wednesday evening in River Valley by
and places are limited as it will be opened
beating Kilcoole in a great start to the
up to other clubs to attend.
season.
St Finian’s GAA Club extends sincere
Congratulations to the Thomas Ashe
sympathies to the Lynch Family on the
minor football team who beat Kilma-
passing of their mother Rose Lynch (nee
cud Crokes in St Margaret’s on Sunday
Sheridan) who died peacefully on Mon-
morning in their Division 4 league game.
day.
It was a busy week for the U-15 boys’
Rose’s sons Stephen, Seoirse, Ronan
hurlers with an excellent win over Kil-
and Ciaran all played football and hurl-
macud Crokes on Sunday week and a
ing for the club at various times. Ar dheis
narrow defeat to Erin’s Isle on Thursday
De go raibh a h-anam dilis.
evening.
A reminder that membership sub-
Congratulations to Liam Kiernan who
scriptions for 2017 are now overdue.
has been selected for the U-15 Dublin
Payments can be made directly online
hurling squad.
under the club membership menu on the
Well done to Teagen Comber and
club website, www.stfinians.com.
Emma Howe who were on the Dublin
Payments can also be made in the club
U-14 team who beat Laois in the Leinster
office Monday to Thursday from 7pm or
championship on Saturday. Dublin will
Saturday morning from 10am to 1pm by
play Meath in the Leinster final in May.
cash or credit/debit card. Membership
Best of luck to the girls in the final.
forms can also be downloaded from the
The nursery and academy, sponsored
Downloads menu on the club website.
by Sky Handling Partner, will not take
For insurance purposes, it is essential
place on Saturday, April 15, the Easter
that adult players and juveniles who play
weekend but will resume on Saturday,
on U-8 teams and upwards have their
April 22 after the Easter Break at the
subscriptions paid in advance.
GAZETTESPORT
ALL OF YOUR FINGAL SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31
FINN TAKES ON FINNS: Swords’ Jamie captains Irish Under-19 side in their European championship bid P30
APRIL 13-19, 2017
HITTING THE HY’ NOTES: Tallaght man breaks pair of national records P29
Malahide have produced a season of results beyond all initial targets. Picture: Will Davis
Fingal rugby on the march Malahide soar into the Ulster Bank Leagues with back-to-back bonus point wins as Skerries prepare for Towns Cup final showdown with Tullow KARL GRAHAM
sport@dublingazette.com
MALAHIDE Rugby Club have created another piece of history for themselves by gaining promotion to the Ulster Bank League for the first time after an excellent season courtesy of a bonus point win over Clonmel last weekend. The Fingal side were only promoted to the Leinster league division 1A last year but took it in their stride as they added some All-Ireland league experience to the squad that saw them win 13 of their 14 league games in the province. They subsequently advanced to the provincial round-robin championship alongside fellow provincial winners Ballina, Omagh and Clon-
mel to battle for a place in the national leagues They recorded a bonus point win away to Omagh before following that up with the 34-9 defeat of Clonmel in Malahide last weekend. They still have to travel to Ballina next week but their points tally of 10 means they can no longer be overtaken. Malahide initially started the season with a target of top four but it was evident after the first couple of games that they would be serious title contenders. As it happened, they blew away most of the sides they came up against, with only third placed De La Salle Palmerston FC able to get the better of them. There could be more success for the club tonight when the Malahide junior team take on
De La Salle Palmerston FC in the final at Coolmine Rugby Club, hoping to land their second Spencer cup in three years. Meanwhile, Malahide are not the only club in Fingal to enjoy an exceptional season as the Skerries RFC junior team get set to take part in their first Bank of Ireland provincials town final in ten years. They go up against Tullow in Athy on Easter Sunday and will be hoping to leave Kildare with the cup for the first time since the club won it four times during the 1970s. They reached the final after defeating reigning champions Wicklow 23-11 at Cill Dara RFC last weekend. Wicklow started that game brightly by putting pressure on their opponents and were rewarded with a penalty after six minutes that
was kicked between the posts by Niall Earls. It took a while for Skerries to settle into the game but they drew level with a penalty of their own from Billy Mulcahy after 17 minutes. Dave Goodman crossed the line for the first try of the game and Mulcahy added the conversion, before another penalty for the latter left the score line at 13-3 going into the break. Wicklow were not looking like the side who had raced to the Leinster League division 1B title and Skerries took advantage as they followed up an exchange of penalties with Goodman’s second try of the game. Mulcahy kicked the conversion to make it 23-6 before Wicklow grabbed a consolation late on.