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July 13 - 19, 2017

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THE JOSHUA TREE Worth €140 See Pg 3 to enter

SPORT Moynihan makes his mark P32

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

Youths kick off a mass brawl at Portrane ‘Euros’ Locals call out for visible Garda presence in area after incidents

 SYLVIA POWNALL

GARDAI from Swords had to be drafted in to keep order at a football tournament involving children as young as five in Portrane last week.

The “Mini Euros” event

organised by St Ita’s AFC almost had to be abandoned when two gangs of older youths started trouble from the sidelines – and parents threatened to intervene.

Less than 24 hours later, two rival gangs of teens descended on nearby Bever-

ton estate in Donabate for a mass brawl which had been organised on social media.

Locals are now calling for a visible garda presence in the area amid fears the peninsula is a soft target for prearranged “Fight Club”-style violence.

Cllr Adrian Henchy (FF) told The Gazette: “There’s been a significant escalation in youths coming in by train and bus as well as a few locals causing trouble.

We need more gardai on the beat.”

Continued on Page 4

2 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 July 2017

SWORDS | OVERWHELMING DEMAND FOR PLACES AT HOLY FAMILY NS

Principal forced to look at ‘time of birth’ when enrolling new students  SYLVIA POWNALL A SCHOOL principal in Swords has admitted ranking students not just by their date of birth but by the hour of their birth due to overwhelming demand for places.

The Holy Family NS in River Valley has already turned away three classrooms worth of pupils for the academic year ahead, principal Mark Cunningham revealed.

Mr Cunningham said the lack of classrooms is to blame for the chronic shortage – and he fears the 96 incoming students

still on the waiting list will have to travel well outside the parish to secure a place in September.

Holy Family NS has an enrolment policy which prioritises older Catholic children.

Mr Cunningham said: “We are in a situation now where we are looking at the birth certificate, and we would have a number of children that would be born on the same day so we have to look at the time of birth.”

He called for additional resources to meet demand

and said the removal of the controversial Baptism Barrier which allows Catholic schools to prioritise Catholic children would make little difference.

Meanwhile Deputy Darragh O’Brien (FF) is warning of a crisis for

incoming secondary students after the opening of two new schools in Malahide/Portmarnock and Swords were pushed back by more than a year.

Minister Richard Bruton confirmed through a parliamentary question that the new schools which were due to open in September will not now open until September 2018.

He said the patron of the Malahide/Portmarnock Educate Together decided “for operational reasons” to postpone as did the patron of Swords

Community College.

Minister Bruton said: “The acquisition of school sites in densely populated areas such as Swords presents an ongoing challenge for my department as the availability of suitable property is often extremely limited, due to the area of accommodation and ancillary facilities required.”

Citing high birth rates and a rising population Deputy O’Brien said: “Local parents are becoming increasingly anxious about whether there will be a place for their children come September.”

Panda customers facing fines for using wrong bins WASTE management company Panda has been urged to delay its new penalties system until householders are better informed about how to bin their rubbish.

Senator Lorraine Clifford Lee (FF) says no fines should be imposed on customers for “making honest mistakes” and inadvertently putting rubbish into the wrong bin.

She made the call after being contacted by concerned householders, especially older people, worried they would incur fines through no fault of their own.

She said: “Panda’s new terms and conditions would mean that even an honest mistake of putting one plastic bag into the blue recycling bin could result in a fine of €25.

“This, without a proper information campaign to householders, would be very unfair, and would,

I believe, be just a way of increasing profits for the company.

“I am also very concerned by Panda’s changes to their contracts that would allow them to enter a person’s property to inspect their bins.

“This seems very heavyhanded to me, and without justification.

“It appears to me to be, for all intents and purposes, a mechanism to increase profits rather than reduce contamination by non-recyclable materials.

“No one, I believe deliberately chooses to put the wrong materials into the wrong bin. People’s lives are busy, and mistakes can happen.

“It would be better for Panda to work with their customers to help them with what can and should be put in each bin rather than jumping in with quite an aggressive penalty scheme.”

FASTNews

Call for reports into Oberstown Centre to be published in full SINN Fein Cllr Malachy Quinn has called for reports into operations at Oberstown Youth Detention Centre to be published in full.

Last week, Children’s Minister Katherine Zappone sparked concerns when her commitment to publishing all four independent reports was called into question in the Dail.

Cllr Quinn said: “It is imperative for all involved that these reports are published in full, allowing us to identify where weaknesses lie, and to ensure the necessary steps have and are being taken to address these issues.

“This week, a reply from the Minister was ambiguous at best in outlining which reports would and would not see full publication.”

The four reports include an independent review of operations, security, health and safety, and behavioural management.

The call for transparency follows a string of high profile incidents including a fire, a riot and several escapes – the latest involving an assault on centre director Pat Bergin and the use of an angle grinder.

Cllr Quinn said: “The publications and transparent implementation can help rebuild faith in Oberstown amongst the local community, as well as the staff of the complex, who are greatly concerned over continuous incidents.”

Five additional gardai for the Balbriggan District SENATOR James Reilly has welcomed the news that five additional gardai are to be allocated to the Balbriggan District which covers Balbriggan, Rural Fingal, Rush and Lusk.

The Fine Gael Senator said: “It will take some time to rebuild the numbers back to a reasonable level and to cater for the increasing demands and growing population.

“There is a growing demand for more garda resources especially in Balbriggan which has a population of almost 25,000 people and is predicted to grow to 35,000, and obviously we will need resources to man Rush Garda station if it is re-opened.”

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

13 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 3

DON’T let this fun day SLIP by Water way to go! One of last year’s thrilled Last year’s

riders sets

super-long

off, hurtling

slide – and

off along

this year

the slide ...

it’ll be even

DUBLINERS have been going crazy over the past two weeks trying frantically to get their hands on 98FM’s Big Slide Festival wristbands – a must-have accessory this summer.

Excitement is growing as the largest water slide the capital has ever seen is coming to the Christchurch area this weekend.

The whopping 260ft slippery dip – which will run down the entire length of Winetavern Street – will be even longer than Liberty Hall (194 ft) or Google’s highrise HQ at Grand Canal Dock (220 ft) are high!

In partnership with Dublin City Council, our friends at 98FM are recreating the Big Slide Festival for a second year running, so get your swimming gear ready for what promises to be a slippery ride, packed full of music, entertainment, food – and, of course, fun for all the family.

The event is free, but only a limited number of wristbands allowing access into the festival have been released each day over the past two weeks, with some of the 4,200 wristbands still

WIN U2 longer, and even more fun to try!

available right up to the day of the Big Slide.

The free Big Slide Festival is definitely for anyone who wants to experience Dublin like they never have before.

We had a terrific reader response on our Facebook page when we gave away some of the elusive, exclusive wristbands (well done to the lucky winners, and sorry folks to everyone else), but 98FM still have some to give away.

98FM presenter Dara Quilty said: “After the success of last year’s Big Slide, I’m absolutely delighted to announce we’re bringing it back.

“Last year was the first time Dublin had a 260ft water slide going through it, and I guess this year is the second! We’ve made some adjustments and the slide is going to be way faster, way wetter and way more fun this year.

Bring it on!”

To get your hands on a wristband, tune in to our official media partners 98FM for instructions on how to register. You can’t let a chance like this slide by!

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TO MARK 30 years since the release of U2’s fifth studio album The Joshua Tree, an anniversary edition of the seminal record was released by Island Records last month.

Alongside the 11-track album, the super deluxe collector’s edition includes a live recording of The Joshua Tree Tour 1987 Madison Square Garden

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 TO WIN this magnificent prize, just answer the following question:

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Email your answer along with your contact details to competitions@dublingazette.com, or see our #GazetteGiveaway post on our Facebook page. Best of luck!

4 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 July 2017

COURTS | ARSONIST COULD NOT OFFER A REASON FOR HIS BEHAVIOUR

Man who ‘inexplicably’ set fire to house jailed  SYLVIA POWNALL A MAN who “inexplicably” set fire to an empty house that was being refurbished for a charity has been sentenced to three years in jail, with the final year suspended.

The court heard Stephen O’Shaughnessy, 27, was intoxicated when he set fire to cardboard in the house.

He waited outside until

gardai arrived and could not offer a reason for his behaviour.

The court heard the property was being refurbished for the use of a charity, Prosper Fingal.

The premises in Balbriggan has since opened as a day care centre for people with disabilities.

The purchase of the property was made possible by the philanthropy of the late Hughie and Kitty

Reilly, whose son John cut the ribbon to officially open it earlier this year.

The couple worked tirelessly for decades through the Fingal Association for the Handicapped to advance services for John and others with intellectual disabilities in the locality.

After Kitty’s passing in 2013, the proceeds of the Reilly family home on Hampton Street in Bal-

briggan were bequeathed to Prosper Fingal.

The Prosper Group now provides services to 500 people in Fingal and Meath.

O’Shaughnessy, of Haywood Court, Northwood, Santry, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to damaging by fire a house at Prosper Fingal, Balbriggan on June 14, 2016.

T here was smoke, fire and water damage throughout the house which was two weeks away from complete refurbishment. The cost to the building contractor in gutting and refitting the house was €170,000.

Judge Karen O’Connor noted that 17 people were due to use the facility and were therefore placed in unsuitable temporary accommodation and denied access to appropriate services.

The judge said the

The property was being refurbished for the use of a charity, Prosper Fingal, when it was set on fire

charity also had planned for the building to have “an openness feeling” but because of the fire had to re-think this strategy and put in place additional security features.

When gardai attended at the scene of the fire, a member of the public pointed out O’Shaughnessy, who was sitting on a nearby wall, his face and clothes covered in soot.

Mr Staunton said it

was “absolutely inexplicable” why his client had done this. He said O’Shaughnessy had no grievance with the parties and had no association with the property.

He added that O’Shaughnessy, who has 18 previous convictions, was a person who had struggled with addiction for a significant time and had relapsed into drink and drug use at the time of the offence.

What a cool fundraiser

SORCHA Maguire from Balbriggan is pictured with Senator Frances Black at the HB Hazelbrook Farm Ice Cream Fundays Party in support of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) at Leinster House. Senator John Dolan hosted the special gathering, where senators and TDs were invited to enjoy ice cream and raise much-needed funds for DSI. Members of the public are being called upon to support the initiative by hosting their own ice cream party in aid of DSI. To get involved, simply lo-call 1890 37 37 37 or register online at www.downsyndrome.ie to receive your free HB Hazelbrook Farm Ice Cream Fundays party pack. Picture: Robbie Reynolds Photography

FROM PAGE 1

Anger as teen fights spill into Portrane Gardai received 30 calls from concerned residents within the space of 10 minutes as teens who arrived by train from Balbriggan or Dundalk clashed with local teens on the green at Beverton estate on Thursday evening.

Two squad cars and a garda van were on the scene within minutes and after dispersing the gangs they escorted the visitors back to the train station.

There were no arrests.

Cllr Henchy said: “This one was particularly nasty, but gardai were on the scene very quickly. It’s an estate with a lot of young children and the neighbourhood watch would be very on the ball.”

It’s the latest in a series of pre-arranged scraps which have erupted in Donabate.

Rival gangs travel by train and bus from Balbriggan, Blanchardstown, Malahide, Swords and further afield and the violence is streamed on social media.

Cllr Paul Mulville (Ind) said: “We don’t want to demonise young people, but with such a large youth population we are encountering more and more challenging behaviour.

“There have been some seriously nasty incidents and we have to have the resources and systems in place to deal with it.”

The Mini Euros event at St Ita’s almost descended into violence but gardai patrolling the pitches from Thursday to Saturday ensured it went off without incident.

Cllr Henchy said: “The tournament is a fantastic event and the fact that it was disrupted by unruly behaviour is not only sad, but totally unacceptable.

“It saddens me to hear from so many people but especially our older citizens that they no longer feel comfortable going about their day-to-day lives in the centre of our village.”

13 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 5

6 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 July 2017

Out and About

Lots to see and do at family fun day Katie Doyle, Isobel Pollock and Amelia O’Gorman. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

Emile McEmtyre

T

HERE were lots of fun events at the recent annual family fun day in Avoca Malahide Castle, including face-painting, balloon artists, music, prizes, an art and crafts corner and two hours of free ice-cream! The historic tourist attraction and cultural hub in the pretty coastal village attracted lots of families for the great day out, with author Kathleen Watkins also in attendance to read from her great new book: The Pigin Of Howth.

Nemanja and Maja Zrnic

Lua Garcia-Cunningham was delighted with her new book

Adrian Stepren

Eliza Cottle and Emily McCormack

13 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 7

Out and About

Adelyn and Eleanor Dunne

Jayden and Sofia Durack-Gains

Kathleen Watkins and Natalia Murphy

Finn, Elia and Anna enjoying ice creams with a fairy princess

Chloe Craig

Ava Deloughter

Stella Black with her mum Joanne

Loly with Amy and Sarah Murphy

8 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 July 2017

Household junk dumped at Portmarnock beach car park

 SYLVIA POWNALL

THIS is the filthy sight that greeted Cllr Brian McDonagh (Lab) while he was out litter picking one morning – a pile of household junk dumped overnight at Portmarnock beach car park on the Golf links road.

It followed a serious incident of fly-tipping in Limekiln Lane, Baldoyle less than 24 hours earlier, with Fingal County Council was notified of both incidents.

Cllr McDonagh said: “It may well be that someone or multiple people paid a contractor to dispose of junk as part of a refurbishment or house clear-out and expected it to be properly disposed of. However, someone dumped the whole lot in the beach car park.

“Fingal [council] can and do investigate and prosecute dumpers. I would ask people to doublecheck how items are disposed of and to use reputable firms.”

The recent spell of good weather also brought crowds to the beach - with many of them choosing to ignore the ‘Leave no trace’ slogan regarding rubbish. Bins were left overflowing with bags of fast food wrappings, dirty nappies and soft drinks bottles and beer cans strewn all over the footpath.

A spokesperson for Portmarnock Community Association said: “We really need Fingal County Council and/or some local businesses to sponsor additional bins. The number of bins around the beach are not sufficient to cater for large crowds Above: the dreardful sight of household rubbish dumped at a car park; right: Portmarnock’s beach bins were left overflowing of people, as evidenced by the photos.”

SWORDS | STREET CARNIVAL TO FEATURE MUSIC, DRAMA, HISTORY AND THE FINGAL 10K

Thousands expected to attend summer festival

 SYLVIA POWNALL

SWORDS Summer Festival returns for the third year in a row later this month and organisers are hoping it will draw record crowds to the north county capital.

The street carnival runs over four days, from July 20 to 23 – and with a staggering 58,000 people attending the Flavours of Fingal weekend in Donabate last month, things are looking promising.

The events team have put together a programme to suit all tastes with lots of free family entertainment as well as music, drama, history, and the Fingal 10K, with more than 4,000 runners taking part.

This year’s festival kicks off on Thursday, July 20, with a performance of The Promise – a romantic musical drama inspired by the events of the 1798 Rebellion – in Swords Castle.

Friday, July 21, will see the return

of the Swords Lions Club fundraiser, this year featuring the Rat Pack live in the marquee in Swords Castle at 8pm (tickets €25).

The Swords Massive Day Out takes place on Saturday, July 22, with family entertainment on Main Street, a fairground in the town park and “marquee madness” in the castle grounds, a traditional market fayre and live music from 6pm.

The prestigious Fingal 10k race takes place on Sunday, July 23, fol-

lowed by a huge puppet and magic show at 2pm in the castle marquee.

Council chief executive Paul Reid said: “I am really looking forward to this year’s expanded festival.

“Events such as this are a great opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy entertainment for all the family, as well as being of huge value to the local economy.”

The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Mary McCamley (Lab) said: “This fes-

tival offers great entertainment, whether it’s the bouncy castles and puppet show to keep the children happy or the excellent music, food fare and living history for adults, there is something for every taste.

I would encourage everyone to come along.”

For further information, to see the full programme and to keep up to date, follow: www.facebook. com/EventsinFingal/ or contact events@fingal.ie.

10 GAZETTE 13 July 2017

Out and About

Family fun for all L

AYA Healthcare’s City Spectacular returned to Dublin’s Merrion Square last week, showcasing some of the very best in international street performance, interactive family activations and workshops, delicious artisan producers and international street food, making it one of the upbeat highlights of the summer so far. Families from all across the country flocked to Dublin to enjoy this free event which even had Dustin the Turkey in attendance.

Lessons in C ‘Lagom’ for Ballymun children

HILDREN from St Joseph’s Junior National School in Ballymun got a great lesson in how to live more sustainably at IKEA’s Live Lagom (‘the right amount is best’) project. IKEA is encouraging customers and those who work for the company to use just the right amount of energy, food, water, etc, creating a more sustainable way of living. To bring this concept to life for the children of St Joseph’s, IKEA supplied the class with a hydroponics set to grow lettuce leaves. They also supplied recycle bins, a basin for the sink and a timer for their water tap. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

13 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 9

FASTNews

Butler backs legislation to tackle theft of life-saving equipment CALLS for strict penalties for anyone caught damaging or stealing life-saving equipment have been backed by Cllr Darragh Butler (FF).

He supports the Bill put forward by FF Senator Keith Swanick which will make it an offence to interfere with defibrillators and lifebuoys.

The Life Saving Equipment Bill 2017 imposes strict new penalties, including a fine of up to €50,000 and a jail term of up to five years for anyone convicted.

Cllr Butler said: “We need to do all that we can to ensure that life-saving equipment is respected and protected and that those [who try to] steal, damage or vandalise such equipment get severely punished with very strict penalties.

“Zero-tolerance is the correct approach to vandalism theft, especially in this regard, and I really hope to see this legislation progress and be implemented.”

The Bill was last week introduced in the Seanad.

Senator Swanick said: “Research from the Irish Heart Foundation reveals that around 13 people die every day from cardiac arrest. Defibrillators are vital in improving survival rates.”

Public urged to have their say on regulating home care services FINE Gael TD Alan Farrell is encouraging people to contribute to a public consultation on home care services and to have their say ahead of the development of a new statutory scheme and system of regulation.

He said: “Home care is essential to many older people in Dublin Fingal and I want to ensure this service is expanded and improved upon.

“We must ensure that everyone has the chance to stay in their homes and in their own communities for as long as possible. Every citizen has the right to grow old with dignity, and in the comfort of their own surroundings if that is what they wish.

“While nursing home care is essential for some people, it’s not right that the Fair Deal Scheme is currently the only statutory scheme in place to care for our elderly people.

“The Government’s plan is to put home care on a statutory footing, and to make it affordable and sustainable. Widespread consultation is to take place and I am really pleased that the public will also get to have a say on the matter.”

For details, see http://health.gov.ie/consultations. The closing date for submissions is August 31.

Multiple arrests in crackdown A GARDA crackdown on theft and fraud led to 18 arrests at the Pavilion Shopping Centre in Swords and the Omni Centre in Santry on Saturday.

Five cars were also seized during the day-long operation, which saw officers working with store owners and security staff.

The cars stopped in and around the shopping centres were found to be in breach of road traffic acts.

Gardai from the Dublin Metropolitan North Division carried out the operation as part of Operation Thor Retail Day of Action.

Garda stands were in place inside the shopping centres, and crime prevention advice was provided to members of the public.

HERITAGE | CREATIVE IRELAND FINGAL PROGRAMME LAUNCHED

Taoiseach visits Swords to announce a culture and creativity initiative Leo appoints three allies to Oireachtas committees

 SYLVIA POWNALL CULTURE is a “vital defence” against untruth and should be embraced by one and all, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar told an enraptured audience in Swords on Monday.

The country’s youngest ever leader went back to his county council roots to launch the Creative Ireland Fingal Programme – and there wasn’t a novelty sock in sight.

Mr Varadkar joined Mayor Cllr Mary McCamley (Lab) at a colourful event hosted in Swords Castle to reveal details of the county’s culture and creativity initiative.

He said: “We are building on so much that has been done in previous years, a rich heritage of creativity and cultural expression that holds its own on the world stage.

“I would like to congratulate the Fingal culture team on this plan.

They have put together a broad and interesting programme.”

A smiling Mr Varadkar showed no sign of stress despite having come from a tense backroom meeting with senior party figures where his slump in popularity was reportedly discussed.

He was presented with a piece of work designed by Castleknock artist Michele Hannan.

Having posed for a selfie with

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar with the Mayor of Fingal, Mary McCamley, and the chief executive of Fingal County Council, Paul Reid, at the launch of the Creative Ireland Fingal Programme in Swords Castle.

Picture: Conor Healy Photography

The Pixies frontman Black Francis in Trinity College the previous evening, he seemed delighted with the performances from Indian Family Club, rising Balbriggan R&B singer Soule and rapper Flynn Johnson.

Mayor McCamley said she hoped people would embrace the programme with the same level of enthusiasm as they did the 1916 Centenary celebrations.

She added: “We hope to harness creativity, which we know thrives within our communities, using it to make Fingal an even better place to live, work, visit and do business in.”

Council chief executive Paul Reid agreed that Fingal’s greatest resource is its people and he said the new civic and cultural

quarter in Swords would be “a centre of excellence for the arts”.

The initiative is the forerunner to the council’s five-year culture and creativity strategy to 2022, and Mr Varadkar said he looked forward to seeing it unfold.

He also admitted that one of the groups that most caught his eye, mainly because of its name, was the Artful Dodgers – “a superb early years music and visual arts programme”.

He added: “The world is a much healthier place when we open our minds to imagination and wonder.”

Further information on the culture fund and creativity plan can be obtained by emailing creativefingal@fingal.ie or by calling 01 890 5097.

THREE Fine Gael TDs who backed Leo Varadkar in the leadership race and missed out on ministries have been appointed to chair Oireachtas committees. They include Fingal Deputy Alan Farrell, Dublin Rathdown Deputy Josepha Madigan, and Louth TD Fergus O’Dowd.

Deputy Farrell has been appointed chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Children and Youth Affairs. The role comes with a yearly allowance of €9,120 on top of a TD’s salary of €89,965.

He said: “As a parent of two young children, I am delighted to have the opportunity to chair meetings focused on developing policy to benefit children, and families across our country.”

The committee deals with a wide range of issues including childcare costs, child welfare and protection, early years education, and holding organisations such as Tusla accountable.

Addict tried to rob his local shop

A HEROIN addict who was so desperate for cash that he tried to rob his local shop and pharmacy has been jailed for four years.

Daniel Weldon, 31, was also so intoxicated that he left “a trail of money in his wake” from another raid that same day.

His attempts at robbery failed both times when the shop owners refused to give him anything.

Weldon was instantly recognised by the first shopkeeper when he went in armed with what she described as a “blackhandled carving knife” and demanded money from the till.

The woman replied “Get out Danny, get out” before she took him by the arm and pushed him out the door.

Minutes later, Weldon tried to raid a nearby

pharmacy when he shouted at the counter staff to open the till and “Give me the money”.

Again he was immediately recognised as a regular customer and the woman replied “Daniel, we have no money” before he left the shop.

Weldon, with addresses at Glasmore Park and Seatown Terrace, both in Swords, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal

Court to the two attempted robberies in Swords on July 1, 2016.

He also pleaded guilty to a robbery on the same day in a second pharmacy on the Main Street in Swords during which he successfully took €230.

Garda Thomas Tighe said Weldon was so intoxicated on the morning that he couldn’t see a second till that was right in front of him and

ordered the staff to show him where it was. He also dropped notes as he was leaving.

Weldon further pleaded guilty to a robbery at a Spar Shop on Upper O’Connell Street on April 7, 2015.

Weldon, who started using heroin age 15, has 52 previous convictions.

His barrister revealed he was now off drugs for a year.

13 July 2017 GAZETTE 11

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 13 July 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS

SURVEY | WORRIED ABOUT IMPACT OF AGE, TWO-THIRDS ARE UPSKILLING

Older workers fight back to stay relevant ALMOST half of Irish workers worry that age might affect their chances of finding a new job.

Research from IrishJobs.ie reveals that older workers who are planning on changing roles worry their age might stop them from getting a new job.

However, those who are planning to change roles in the next two years report that they are upskilling (65%) to stay employable.

The research carried out by IrishJobs.ie amongst 1,038 jobseekers across multiple industries shows that 31% of older workers believe they lost out on a job opportunity due to their age at least on one or more occasion.

A quarter believe they were passed over for promotion due to

The IrishJobs.ie survey reveals some positive steps many older workers are taking as they consider looking for new jobs

their age; as a result, 62% of older workers were apprehensive about looking for a new job, with 45% planning to stay in their existing sector.

The research showed that older employees are going a lot further than their younger counterparts to stay competitive for new roles.

To overcome the perception of being older, 40% are going to the gym more with 64% switching to a healthier diet and another 43% taking more vitamins.

When it came to more extreme measures, some 38% considered dying their hair, with 29% thinking about having their teeth whit-

ened, 44% planning to give up smoking, and another 26% considering giving up alcohol. Some 8% of those surveyed considered anti-aging injections.

Orla Moran, general manager, IrishJobs.ie said: “While it’s illegal to discriminate against employees because of their age, it’s obvious that older jobseekers are concerned about how their date of birth will impact on their search for a new job.

“It’s terrific to see that many older workers are doing the right thing and keeping their skills up to date. In fact, it’s something we’d advise workers of all ages to do – continuing to upskill and staying relevant within their chosen industry is essential for continual employment.”

‘Don’t EU listen to the leavers’ THE notion of Ireland leaving the EU would be “simply idiotic”, says Fine Gael Senator and Government spokesman on EU Affairs, Neale Richmond.

Senator Richmond was speaking at a meeting of the Oireachtas EU Affairs Committee which was attended by the new Minister for European Affairs, H e l e n McEntee.

He said: “In the wake of Brexit, the EU is understandably looking at its own future. The launch of the European Commission White Paper on the future of the EU is therefore welcome and allows all citizens and stakeholders to feed into what that that future should look like.

“It is my strongly held belief that Ireland’s future should not just be as part of the EU but at the heart of the EU. “The notion peddled by some ill-informed sources that Ireland should follow the example of the UK and leave the EU is, to be blunt about it, simply idiotic.

“The decision of the people of the UK to leave the EU is a bad decision based on emotion, influenced by a campaign of mistruth.

“Since joining the EEC in 1973, Ireland has flourished. Our active membership and commitment to the European project has allowed us to fully mature as an independent and sovereign state.

“We have grown socially, economically and culturally through our commitment to Europe. It has allowed us, a small peripheral nation, to take a seat at the top table of global

affairs.

“I am urging the Government and Minister McEntee to double-down on Ireland’s commitment to Europe, to embrace the 88% of Irish people who

are in favour of continued membership, and rebut directly the small minority living in a fantasy land who think Ireland would be better off outside of the EU.”

CarePlus Pharmacy appoints its new commercial director CAREPLUS Pharmacy has announced the appointment of its new commercial director .

Niamh Lynch takes over the key role, bringing a wealth of commercial knowledge and experience to the position.

With more than ten years of senior leadership experience, and more than 15 years buying and selling across many consumer categories, including health

and beauty, Niamh’s comprehensive skillsets and insight will play a key part in supporting her role.

N i a m h ’s p r e v i o u s

roles include positions as global business unit director of Tesco PLC, and national acocunt manager with Unilever.

She holds a Bachelor of Science and Food Business from university College Cork.

CarePlus is a network of franchised pharmacies, owned and managed by community pharmacists with the aim of providing a superior pharmacy experience.

Initiating dialogue with a manager could help you both

Maybe it’s time to start managing your manager?

TURNOVER of staff happens most frequently because of relations with a manager. People tend to move companies because of low job satisfaction more often than because of money.

This can happen for a number of reasons, including not getting enough support, unrealistic demands, or no participation in decisionmaking.

However, all is not lost – there is a way to create a better workplace for you and your manager or supervisor.

Poor communication is often the common issue in the above causes of low job satisfaction.

Of course, some managers could be better communicators, but instead of waiting for them to improve it’s possible for you to take action and ‘encourage’ your manager to exchange information more freely.

Start by opening a dialogue. If you don’t feel comfortable bringing something up face to face, send a short email outlining what you’d like to discuss and then suggest a time to meet.

If the above tips don’t help, perhaps you need to find a new job with a new manager. For further information, contact RecruitmentPlus at 01 2788 610, or also see www.recruitmentplus.ie.

The email you sent will act as an agenda when you do meet up, and will keep your conversation on course.

Another thing to suggest to your manager is implementing an evaluation and review process.

This process can take place as often as needed, but usually annually or bi-annually.

T his provides the opportunity to meet and discuss performance.

These meetings offer a perfect opportunity to engage with your manager and to change the communication levels between you.

Some people may say that it is not their responsibility to upskill their manager. However, anything that enriches your workplace and makes everyone more productive is something that will benefit your job satisfaction in the long run.

You may be able to change the work environment so you don’t become one of the people who leave because of your manager. Make communication easier for your manager, and things will be easier for you.

13 July 2017 GAZETTE 13

TRAVEL P20

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

CINEMA P24



GAZETTE

DIARY P14

SHE’S A BEAUTIFUL BEAGLE, REVIEW: ONCE AT THE OLYMPIA IS A WONDERFULLY PRODUCED PACKAGE AND CHUNLI HAS A LOT OF LOVE FOR A CARING OWNER OUR Dog of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* is Chunli, a very sweet, two-yearold Beagle.

She can be quite shy at first when she meets new people; however, once you give her time to get to know you, Chunli comes out of her little shell and shows her true, adorable nature.

Chunli is looking for a quiet, adult-only home without too many visitors. As she feels at her best around other dogs, Chunli is looking for a home with another friendly and social canine which is going to boost her confidence. She is looking for owners that will not expect too much of her initially, but will allow her to grow in her own time. Given proper care, love and time, Chunli will become a wonderful companion and a friend for life!

If you can be Chunli’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.

Show stopper  JAMES HENDICOTT H AV I N G p u t a f o c u s o n obtaining a really musically talented cast, brought the simpler elements of the story to the fore and utilised a clever set extremely well, the latest incarnation of Once –showing at the Olympia Theatre until late August – is astoundingly well done.

Adapting Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova’s music and taking much that is good from the 2007 movie, the musical is set entirely in a surround with the feel of an old-school Irish pub, the fluid cast almost constantly on stage in their entirety as they

perform the backing track to a gentle tale.

Niamh Perry, playing ‘Girl’, is the undoubted star.

Credit has to be given for her convincing and unwavering switch into a Czech accent, but what really stands out are her vocals, and the restrained tension she creates around the lead man, Brian Gilligan.

While the pre-interval part of the show is relatively lighthearted, full of local colour and witty patter, things take an intense turn after the interval, with the emotional love story at the heart of the tale coming to the fore to glorious effect.

Continued on Page 17

GAZETTE

14 GAZETTE 13 July 2017

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

Digging in at Zoorassic World at Dublin Zoo are teacher Kelly Mara with Senan Shah, Maisie Conroy, Beth Healy, Alfie Conroy and Rian Shah

FAMILIES: DIG INTO THE PAST WITH DUBLIN ZOO’S T-REX-IFFIC NEW INSTALLATION

Pictures: Patrick Bolger

Boning up on dinosaurs DUBLIN Zoo’s latest attraction, Zoorassic World, is sure to get a roar or two of approval from visitors to the brand-new home for reptiles of the past and present.

With lots of fun dinoand reptile-related features at the latest attraction at the zoo, the lord of them all has to be Stan – a towering life-size replica fossil skeleton of a male adult Tyrannosaurus Rex that lived 65 million years ago.

Stan’s name isn’t very exciting (sorry, Stans everywhere), but the big, bony beast is very impressive in the flesh, standing 3.7m high and 12.2m long.

He’s not alone – other replica dinosaur skeletons at Zoorassic World include a Velociraptor, Oviraptor, Anhanguera,

and an Archaeopteryx, plus life-sized replicas of a Galapagos tortoise and a Komodo dragon, while Zoorassic World is also now home to the zoo’s many living reptiles.

For further information, see www.facebook. com/dublinzoo and www. dublinzoo.ie.

JOIN THE CROWD TO CONTROL THE MUSIC HEADING to some concerts this summer? Make sure to check out Live Your Music, a new concept from Heineken.

Debuted at Sea Sessions festival in Donegal last month, the concept hands over control to the crowd, empowering them to programme the lighting, the visuals and the atmosphere, with a few surprises thrown in.

This weekend, July

14 – 16, Live Your Music will descend on Longitude in Marlay Park with a fully responsive, custombuilt space featuring DJs and collectives from the worlds of house, disco, hip-hop and R&B, including Lui Rwego, Bobofunk and District Magazine.

Music fans can join the crowd and sign up for exclusive experiences at: www.heinekenmusic.ie.

BIG ADVENTURE FOR CHAIN’S MINI CEOS HOTEL brand Radisson Blu has announced a unique nationwide search to find a new board of directors with a difference – a group of Mini CEOs (Child Entertainment Officers) are being sought to help consult on the hotels’ family offering across the UK and Ireland this summer.

T he chosen mini CEOs will win a free stay at a Radisson Blu of their choice for them and their family, along with all the perks of a weekend getaway, including free restaurant meals.

Boys and girls between the ages of 6 – 10 years can apply for the role (and ask their parents or guardians to be a reference for them), with their ‘duties’ to involve reviewing leisure facilities in the hotels.

For further information and to nominate, see http://www.radissonblu. com/miniceo.

DISPENSE AN AWARD TO YOUR PHARMACIST DUBS are being called on to nominate Ireland’s most dedicated pharmacists.

T h e C l a nw i l l i a m Pharmacist Awards have

RACE OVER TO €32K CHAMPION STAKES

launched for 2017 and the organisers want Dubliners to nominate pharmacists who go above and beyond for their patients.

You can fill out an online nomination form before the July 21 deadline, with the winning pharmacist to be recognised in the company of hundreds of their peersat the Clanwilliam Pharmacist Awards

in November.

An adjudicating panel comprising pharmacists from various branches of the profession will select three finalists for each category, to be announced in October, with and a winner in each to be revealed on the awards night.

To make your nomination, see http://www. pharmacistawards.com/

READY to race over to some exciting events at Shelbourne Park? You should be, as the popular stadium has laid on some summer sports highlights to look out for.

Kevin Hennessy and Leon Blanche, representing Irish Independent bookmaker BoyleSports, are pictured (left) with Shelbourne Park racing manager Declan Carey at the launch of a bumper calendar of racing events at the greyhound stadium.

The BoyleSports Champion Stakes, worth more than €32,000, run over two weekends in July and August.

For further information on the calendar of events, see www.shelbourneparkgreyhoundstadium.ie.

13 July 2017 GAZETTE 15

POPCORN RECIPE Three Corn Tacos

THE people over at Propercorn have come up a perfect popcorn-inspired recipe to make your summer meals extra special.

Ingredients: Serves 4 12 small corn tortillas 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1.5cm pieces (keep the peelings) Small tub of sour cream 2 x 20g packs of Propercorn Sour Cream & Black Pepper For the pickled onion: Half a red onion, finely sliced juice 2 limes pinch of sugar For the guacamole: 2 avocados, halved and stoned Half a lime Small bunch of coriander, roughly chopped 1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped Quarter thinly sliced red onion For the salsa: 200g cherry tomatoes, chopped into quarters Quarter red onion, finely sliced 1 green chilli, deseeded and finely chopped Juice half a lime For the corn: 4 corn on the cob (or 4 small tins of sweetcorn) 2 large knobs of butter 2 tsp smoked paprika pinch of salt and pepper Method: 1. Pre-heat the oven to 200C. Mix the pickled onion ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.

2. Place the sweet potato chunks on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil and a good pinch of salt. Pop in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until slightly charred on the edges.

3. Cut the kernels off the corn on the cobs. In a large frying pan, melt the butter on a high heat add the corn, paprika and salt and pepper. Cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring regularly, until the kernels are caramelized. Once cooked, turn off the heat and set aside to keep warm.

4. To make the salsa and guacamole, mix the salsa ingredients in a small bowl with a squeeze of lime and a handful of chopped coriander.

5. Mash the avocados then add the red onion and red chili. Squeeze in the lime juice and set aside. 6.

A few minutes before the potatoes are ready, add a dash of oil and salt to the peelings, spread evenly on a baking tray and pop in the oven to crisp up. Cover your tortillas in foil and add to the bottom of the oven to warm up.

7. Tortillas are best filled by the person eating them, so to serve, place everything in bowls and tuck in!

GAZETTE

FOOD&DRINK

Say ‘buongirono’ to tasty Italian dishes

MUSIC lovers at the upcoming Punchestown Music Festival at the end of the month can send their tastebuds racing with a dash of tasty Italian fare, courtesy of Italian cuisine specialists Barilla.

The opening of its popup restaurant, By Barilla, will serve a range of authentic Italian fare with a twist for hungry festival goers, with its pasta dishes coming with a threecourse (€25) offering that won’t need a win on the gee-gees to enjoy.

By Barilla’s fare on July 29 and 30 will give diners at the popular music festival some tasty meals that look set to draw upon the family-owned company’s expertise in creating Italian dishes.

Starter options include antipasti dishes, with a selection of meats, cheeses, olives and breads to choose from.

For their main course, diners will be able choose from favourites such as Barilla Fusilli with tiger prawns and served with arrabbiata sauce; Barilla Tortellini of four cheeses with a sage and nut butter sauce; Barilla Linguini Primavera with chicken, julienne of vegetables and flat parsley.

Adding the finishing touch, dessert options will include the ever-popular Tiramisu.

Adding to the Mediterranean-flavoured feeling at By Barilla, guests will be served “Italian family style” at long tables, with starters to be presented on platters, allowing visitors to help themselves.

Following the first course, at intervals a selection of three pasta dishes will be brought to each table, inviting guests to indulge in a variety of

Punchestown Music Festival will have Italian fare, courtesy

dishes.

Wine will also be included as part of the By Barilla festival offering.

Adding a pinch of flexibility, diners can also schedule reservations

around their favourite artist so as not to miss a thing while also not missing their meal.

For further information about Barilla products and recipes, see the site at

of Barilla

www.barilla.com, while the full list of performers at this year’s 2017 Punchestown Music Festival is over at https://mcd. ie/artists/punchestownmusic-festival/

Mini pizza bases serve up a big, delicious treat  EMMA NOLAN KEEP the kids entertained during the s c h o o l h o l i d ay s b y cooking up a storm with Pizza da Piero’s mini pizza bases.

Get crafty in the kitchen and add a range of tasty toppings to these four inch bases – the perfect size for little ones.

P i z z a d a P i e r o ’s founders Piero and Cliona love to decorate each pizza with their

three little girls, making faces with broccoli, sweetcorn and peas, breaking all of Piero’s Italian pizza rules.

It’s lunch and playtime wrapped into one!

Delicious and wholesome mini pizza bases

by Pizza da Piero are the perfect treat for all the family, kids and adults alike.

Pop them in the oven, adorned with your favourite pizza toppings and five minutes later – finito!

Piero creates these fresh and authentic bases at his Dublin bakery every morning using only six simple ingredients; white flour, water, soya f lour, yeast, sea salt and extra virgin oil.

Just as scrumptious as the rest of Pizza da Piero’s range, each mini base is carefully made over a two-day process.

This allows time for the dough to ferment, making it light and easily digestible, so no bloated tummies.

Mini pizza bases by Pizza da Piero are perfect for all the family

Pizza da Piero’s mini bases are a great choice for a light summer lunch or a pizza and movie night with the kids.

At RRP €3.99, they

can be found in SuperValu, Dunnes Stores, Tesco, Avoca, Cavistons Food Emporium, Ardkeen Quality Food Store and Sheridan’s Cheesemongers.

13 July 2017 GAZETTE 17

DUBLINLIFE

 JAMES HENDICOTT A SELF-PROCLAIMED college band reformed to a heyday later in life that far exceeds their 90s peak, King Kong Company are fast becoming Ireland’s go-to festival act, and with good reason.

The Waterford-based act are a high-energy, upbeat dance six-piece with plenty of stage moves.

One member performs in a cardboard box with crudely cut eyeholes, while recent outings include a trip to iconic UK festival Glastonbury, a tea party at Michael D Higgins’s house, and even the launch of their own unlikely beer infused with Buckfast, with King Kong Company plastered across the front.

Colin Hoye, the group’s trumpeter, is the one member currently based in Dublin, and met The Gazette to describe what’s been a strange journey and a wildly busy summer to date.

Amazingly, their self-titled debut of 2016 is the band’s only formal release to date, despite performing together from 1996 to 2000, and then from 2011 to today.

“The technology wasn’t really there to do what we wanted to do back then,” Hoye recalls. “We had this massive eight track and you couldn’t even get the drums alone onto it. We have so many channels now. We had a manual drum machine that we started and stopped for every track back then. We did the best we could, but trying to actually make an album would have been too hard, or too expensive at the time.

“Second time around [following the band’s reformation in 2011], I think we were looking for a mid-life crisis and found one. We had no misconceptions about what we were going to get out of it this time, but we’re surprised at how well it’s gone for us.

“When we decided to get back together, we used the power of social media to help us along the way. We decided to do 12 tracks in 12 months, and our friend John Loftus basically said that he’d do the videos for us.

“Those videos sparked a lot of the characters we have now, and those characters came into the live shows. It’s almost more of a product at this stage.”

Ireland’s Wild Festival Heroes

One album, their own beer and performing in a cardboard box: 20 years of King Kong Company

N O S ’ T A H W

E D I U G S T N EVE

with JAMES HENDICOTT

Belle and Sebastian

Scottish indie darlings are one of the highlights of a series of gigs at the Iveagh Gardens, and are sure to explore the emotive backdrop of their nine experimental and touching albums. €45 entry fee.

July 20

Longitude Festival

Marlay Park’s annual bash bring their camping-free city-festival vibe back for another summer, with star appearances from Mumford and Sons, Stormzy, Skepta, The Weeknd, Catfish and the Bottlemen and Villagers (plus many more) across the weekend.

July 14-16

98FM’s Big Slide

Slip through Dublin streets on a 260ft waterslide running down Winetavern Street, thanks to the radio station and Dublin City Council. You’ll need to grab sliding tickets in advance, and have your swimsuit ready. July 15-16.

Dropkick Murphys

Another of those Iveagh Gardens shows, Bostonian act Dropkick Murphys will bring their punk-tinged nu-Irish stylings to play in an invariably riotous live show. Support from indie-pop heroes of ten years ago The Fratellis adds colours. July 16.

A Night At The Museum

The National Wax Museum diversifies with a new theatre experience, promising to “push boundaries between reality and imagination,” and “you might end up in Heaven or Hell.” July 15

Token Retro Gaming Tournament

The exciting new Smithfield venue that combines a bar, food and retro gaming launches the first of one promises to be a long line on old-school gaming tournaments. July 15.

New album of the week

Coldplay - Kaleidoscope Right after playing their Croke Park date, Coldplay launch a new EP featuring six ‘companion’ tracks to 2016 album ‘A Head Full Of Dreams’. Having been delayed twice, fans will be queueing up for this one.

Continued from Page 13

A unique look – and now, a unique beer as well!

It could only be King Kong Company, who talk to

Live When it came to the album, Hoye recalls the live set-up being very much a key factor.

“We had to do everything we could to bring the live sound into the album,” he explained.

“It would have been very easy to just do it very electronically, but you want to move the music around to have that live effect to it.

“We are very much a live band, and we wanted to show people what we sound like live with the album. In a way we were kind of dreading the album as we knew it would be so much work. We used to be more like acid jazz, so it’s a bit of a change of direction from what we sounded like in the late 90s, but nobody sounds like that anymore.”

Whether the album or an incredibly noto-

MUSIC

GAZETTE

GAZETTE

16 GAZETTE 13 July 2017

The Gazette about their rise and rise so far.

rious live show are the defining factor, there’s little doubt that King Kong Company are on an all time high this year. Last month, their striking imagery appeared on the front of a new brand of beer from Wexford craft beer company, Yellowbelly, entitled ‘Commotion Lotion’, and infused with Buckfast. The launch came within days of their Glastonbury appearance, a lively slot at Body and Soul and a toned-down show at Aras An Uachtarain.

“We did a gig down in Cork, at the Irish Beer Festival last year,” Hoye recalls. “It was a really good festival with a lot of craft brewers at it.

They approached us then about it, and we made the beer. Yellowbelly did all the imagery and

everything. It’s very surreal to have your own beer, really odd.”

Then came the recent trip to the Phoenix Park. “We had to censor [hit track] Donkey Jaw a bit,” Hoye says of the performance at the President’s house. “We were thinking of doing the full version at the garden party, but there were a lot of young kids there. It was censored enough to not offend. It was the strangest gig ever. We were very nervous about it at first, and I think the organisers were a bit nervous about it, too, wondering what we were going to do!

“But our frontman, Mikey Graham, got on the mic at the start and said: ‘Listen, we usually play in muddy fields at festivals, so what we’re

going to do is ask all the children if they want to come up to the front of the stage and dance’. So they did, and they all started dancing and it was great; we won everyone over within five seconds.

It was a great honour to do it.”

And the future? Hoye admits that a new album isn’t really on the horizon, but adds “we’re always in some shape or form working on new music”.

He added: “A lot of the stuff that made this album we played live for a long time before we recorded. I think that’s just the way it’s going. We make music to play live, not to make an album, so it’s good to road test.”

Few bands ‘test’ with quite such a sense of fun.

The stage comes to life to suit, too, and there’s an impressive array of character development, in the narrow but entertaining lives of Girl’s Czech housemates, the occasional but memorable appearances of her daughter, and Phelim Drew’s wacky interludes as music store owner Billy – a lively stereotype of the witty North Dubliner.

Then there are the gimmicks. The best come in the pre-show, pub-style performance from the cast, which takes place with the audience on stage and able to buy from the bar positioned as part of the scenery.

It works well, too, but the key here

is in the simplicity and the casting.

Perry is outstanding all round.

Gilligan has a solid voice and his character constantly seems on the verge of a nervous breakdown, while the extras have a smart dynamic, adding to the humour.

All in, Once is a wonderfully produced package, with ample entertainment value that also tugs firmly on the heartstrings, with the relationships thoroughly believable.

The emotion in Perry as she bowed before an opening night audience said it all: this might be just another step on the road this musical has been powering down over the last few years, but it is also something very special.

ONCE and always terrific

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 13 July 2017

DUBLINLIFE

Carousel in a spin over nod from The New York Times

Vivien Butterfly Print Dress €59  EMMA NOLAN

AN IRISH-ow ned vintage boutique was recently mentioned in a New York Times article about places to visit in Dublin.

Carousel design and manufacture their own nostalgia-inspired col-

lections under the “Circus” label, and are stocked in more than 180 independent shops worldwide, and in their boutique on the corner of Drury Street and Exchequer Street.

T he ow ners said they were delighted to be mentioned by the

Brigette cat print dress €65

Nathalie Lemon Print Dress €69 New York Times. “We were over the moon to be included and have seen a surge of interest from USA customers through our website as a result.”

T hey now have a great selection of summer stock in store (pictured above).

Premium Lux Coat €399

Blossom Print Swing Dress €139; Abigail Patchwork Boot €209; Funnel Neck Fitted Knit €85

MINT VELVET LUXE

 EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

THE Autumn/Winter collection from Mint Velvet is chic and understated. Taking its inspiration from effortless Parisian style, it combines boyfriend-dressing with the brand’s signature softer, feminine elements.

Longline silhouettes, blazer and wide-leg trouser combos in both structured and relaxed fabrics are inspired by the 90s power-suit, and suits are paired with trainers for a new take on modern sportswear.

Functionality is key here – everything can be worn with jeans, including dresses. Layer a polo neck underneath lighter fabrics or heavier knits for colder months, as another homage to luxe French dressing.

13 July 2017 GAZETTE 19

GAZETTE

STYLE Embroidered Sleeve Shirt €129

Oversized Tri-Acetate Blazer €249; Imogen Print Neck Scarf €39

Blossom Print Blouse €99

Tie Back Cotton Shirt €99; Paper Bag Waist Trouser €119; Pippa V Front Shoe Boot €169

Beaded Shirt €119

Split Seam Coat €399

Velvet Blazer €209

Lace Back Dress €169

GAZETTE

20 GAZETTE 13 July 2017

DUBLINLIFE

Ballyvolane House will A veritable eden awaits just a few hours away from Dublin at a family-owned country house located in the historic region of the Munster Blackwater Valley

 JESSICA MAILE

TIME FOR A TIPPLE?

An ode to Bertha and the ‘grass to glass’ approach YOU MAY be asking who is Bertha and what does she have to do with Ballyvolane House? It’s simple, really – Bertha, a cow, is the inspiration behind Bertha’s Revenge, a pure Irish milk gin which is conjured up, distilled and bottled at the estate.

Bertha was truly a one-of-a-kind. This Droimeann cow from Sneem, Co Kerry, lived a legendary 48 years, which earned her the title of World’s Oldest Cow. She died in 1993, but Bertha’s Revenge creators Justin Green and Antony Jackson have kept her ‘spirit’ alive in this finely-crafted gin made from whey alcohol from local dairy farmers, natural spring water and locally grown and foraged botanicals.

Their ‘grass to glass’ philosophy is an ode to Bertha and keeps her memory alive. Bertha’s Revenge is a spicy yet refreshing small-batch, hand-crafted gin that has notes of cardamom, cumin and sweet citrus.

The whey alcohol base makes it an extremely smooth concoction that can be enjoyed in the lush atmosphere of Ballyvolane House or at home in a martini or mixed with your favourite tonic.

IT’S summertime and what’s on the menu for some summer getaway fun? Glamping. Yes, glamping.

Camping in luxury is definitely the way to go when the temperatures rise and the weather is a bit more cordial, and there is no better place than Ballyvolane House near Fermoy in Co Cork to do so.

The house was originally built in 1728 as a classically Georgian-style home but was subsequently remodelled in Victorian times to give it a more Italianate style.

It has been a home to just three families, with the Green family now managing this successful country house.

Its rooms are filled with family heirlooms, portraits and antiques but still offer a relaxed atmosphere to read or just take in the splendour of it all.

This warm and inviting family period home actually gives the option

of staying in one of its six finely-appointed bedrooms or to indulge your wild, bohemian side and stay in one of the 11 cosy bell tents.

The tents are very spacious, with a double or two single beds, and plenty of comfy blankets should you need extra warmth as the night goes on.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh summer air on this expansive estate.

The house is surrounded by lush woods and well-maintained gardens.

There are trout lakes and salmon fishing on the River Blackwater, and even a variety of fly fishing courses are on offer.

BALLYVOLANE HOUSE

Castlelyons, Fermoy, Co Cork

 Open January 1 to December 24  B&B room rate from €195, Single Occupancy €150  Glamping Bell Tents, B&B pps: €60-€75 (May-Sep)  Dinner from €60  Tel: 353 25 36339; email: info@ballyvolanehouse.ie  www.ballyvolanehouse.ie

As I wandered the grounds, I discovered the picturesque lakes, little man-made waterfalls, friendly ducks, two very nosey donkeys, an expansive walled garden full of

fresh produce and flowering plants, a tennis court, a pitch to kick a ball around and the perfect place to play a bit of croquet.

After all my wanderings, I was treated to a spectacular meal of roast chicken, fresh new potatoes and greens from the walled garden and, to top it all off, a batch of heavenly Eton Mess. They only source ingredients from their walled garden, farm, river and from the local area.

Before I headed to bed, the staff kindly lit the candle chandelier in the tent and placed hot water bottles in the bed for the ultimate in cosiness.

After a refreshing night’s sleep, a nice hot breakfast

The official greeter will also steal your heart!

was certainly in order. My favourite part of brekkie is the fact that it’s served up until noon, which is heaven for those who like to stay up late and get up even later!

You have a choice of a continental breakfast or ‘The Full Monty’, but the latter seemed the way to go and it didn’t disappoint.

The most refreshing aspect of Ballyvolane House is how relaxed and inviting the home is and how comfortable Justin Green, his family and staff make you feel there.

And despite all of the grandeur, the care-free atmosphere completely puts you at ease. It’s simply a true get-away in every sense of the word!

13 July 2017 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

steal your heart

TRAVEL

TRAVELNews

Holiday deals this August from €439

IT’S NOT too late to get some sun this summer.

Choose your destination and plan your perfect August getaway now. Whether it’s the knockout scenery and all year round sun of the Canaries, the Balearic’s Spanish culture with nightlife that rivals the rest of Europe or the second-to-none sandy beaches, bougainvillea-splashed villages and round-the-clock nightlife of the Greek Islands, we have something for you.

• 28-Aug, Dublin to Lanzarote, San Marcial, Matagorda, 2-star, SC, 7 nights from €549pp.

• 30-Aug, Dublin to Rhodes, Amfitriti Hotel & Studios, Pefkos, 3-star, SC,7 nights from €439pp.

• 26-Aug, Dublin to Kos, Emmanouel Studios, Lambi, 2-star, SC, 7 nights from €629pp.

• 27-Aug, Dublin to Crete, Golden Bay Apartments, Gournes, 3-star, SC, 7 nights from €559pp.

• 31-Aug, Dublin to Ibiza, Casa Luis, Santa Eulalia, 3-star, SC, 14 nights from €729pp.

Visit www.falconholidays,ie for more details.

Ballyvolane House in Castlelyons, Fermoy, Co Cork is a family -owned period home that offers finely-appointed bedrooms or a perfect spot for a bit of glamping if you fancy a bit of fresh air

Lake Garda

Lake Garda deals: • Depart 15 July, stay at the 3-star Hotel La Perla, Garda, for 7 nights, on a half-board basis, from just €799pp.

• Depart 19 July, stay at the 2-star Furstenhof, Alpbach, Austria, on a B&B basis, for 7 nights, from €499pp.

• Depart 29 July, stay at the 3-star Hotel La Perla, Lake Garda, on a half-board basis, for 7 nights, from €799pp.

• Depart 29 July, stay at the 4-star Hotel Splendid Palace, Limone, for 7 nights, on a half-board basis, from just €989pp.

• Depart 12 August, stay at the Doria Apartments, Garda, for 7 nights, from just €1,545 (based on 2 sharing) or €2,275 (2 adults + 2 children).

• Depart 26 August, stay at the 4-star Hotel Majestic Palace, Malcesine, for 7 nights, on a halfboard basis, from just €985pp.

To book call (01) 433 1080, visit www.crystalsummer.ie or contact your local travel agent.

GAZETTE

22 GAZETTE 13 July 2017

DUBLINLIFE

Mini but mighty I’VE re-lived the Mini experience in the new generation Mini Clubman in recent weeks and it has rekindled a warm relationship with the iconic British car brand.

Those who were reared with the original Mini as their first driving experience will appreciate the transformation that the Mini brand has undergone.

Younger drivers will take the car for what it is; a solid small car with great driving ability that despite its size always pervades a feeling of strength.

This Clubman version plays on a van-type design with twin opening rear doors and that design feature gives stand-out identity to the car that’s anything but a van in image and driving experience.

The Clubman version of the Mini gives it a more male perspective, because the standard Mini has become seen as more of a female desire car. This Clubman with its extended wheelbase adds a different sense of appeal, while it uses all of the design features and more to change how you look at the car.

What you get from a Mini Clubman is more space and more flexibility with a different boot access through the twin opening rear doors.

The rear legroom from the extended wheelbase (that’s 100mm longer than the standard Mini) gives impressively more rear legroom, even if the headroom remains a shade challenged. That rear space seems less crowded and the enhanced legroom is instantly noticed.

Mini, which is owned by the BMW group, has the benefit of BMW diesel engine technology and that’s seen first-hand in this Mini One D version of the Clubman, powered by an impressive twin-

FASTNews June new car sales dip by 14% as Dublin market grows NEW CAR registrations for June took a 14% dip, according to the latest official statistics released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI).

The SIMI figures show that 1,397 new cars were registered last month compared with 1,623 for June 2016. The year-todate figures for the first half of the year show a 10% drop in new car registrations, compared with last year.

The five top-selling car brands for the year to date were Volkswagen, Toyota, Hyundai,

The new generation Mini Clubman is a four-door spacious car which retains some of the Mini low profile go-kart driving feel across a longer wheelbase. Entry prices start at €28,278.

Ford and Nissan, while the Hyundai Tucson remains Ireland’s best-selling car in 2017,

Mini Clubman One D 1.5 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Engine power 0 – 100km/hr Economy Fuel Tank Capacity CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Main Service Euro NCAP Rating Warranty Entry Price

turbo diesel three-cylinder engine that’s very powerful.

The engine’s smoothness under the cramped bonnet area has to be driven to be appreciated. The power output at 115bhp

1.5 litre 115hp I was equally impressed 10.4 seconds with its fuel economy 26m/litre figures. The official rated (3.9/100km or 60mpg) economy level is 26m/litre 48 litres (3.9/100km or 60mpg); my 600km test drive returned 102g/km a 30% lower figure.

A3 €190 The fact that the car 15,000km/12 mon could cruise at 120km/hr 5 star (2015) on motorways at just shy 5 years/100,000km of 2000rpm on the engine, €28,278 made this economy level

and 270Nm of torque is so impressive, while its performance in acceleration terms at 10.4 seconds in a 0 to 100km/hr race, is very acceptable.

I took the car across a range of conditions and

followed by the Nissan

Mini gives you more space in a Clubman as Michael Moroney found out when he took the new model for a lengthy test drive.

possible.

This level of economy could give me a range of about 950km with the car’s 48 litre capacity fuel tank. Anywhere close to the 1,000km range on a full fuel tank is where I believe a modern car should be, and this new Mini Clubman meets that challenge.

The car came with the standard six-speed manual gearbox that seemed to have some high points in terms of ratios that took a little getting used to.

I found that the gear

change was a little less smooth than I would have liked, and the clutch pedal a shade heavier, not exactly what you want if you’re planning a drive to a night out in your best ‘car-to-bar shoes’.

The additional boot space in the new Mini Clubman is one of its key selling features. The boot space at 360 litres – which extends to 1250 litres – is impressive and deceptive for the relatively small car.

I tested the extended load capacity with a stepladder and the flexibility of the space impressed.

The boot area is deeper than other Mini models to give a depth of load space that surprised me. Despite this, the Mini does not come with a spare wheel, which I consider one of its very few drawbacks.

This new Mini is a solid-feeling car that scores highly in terms of safety

Qashqai, Skoda Octavia, Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus.

Remarkably, the best-seller in the car

too. The car has a fivestar Euro NCAP safety rating.

Mini claims that in addition to the stiff, rigid and light-weight body structure, a complete set of standard safety features also gives enhanced occupant protection of the new Mini One D Clubman.

Fitting that child seat takes a bit of bending down, but that’s because of the low stance of the car itself.

The standard specification features of the new Mini Clubman are impressive, including Mini Navigation, a sport leather steering wheel with multifunction control and 16in alloy wheels and alarm with immobiliser.

The entry price for the petrol version is €28,278 while the new diesel option that I drove adds another €2,000 to the price.

market in June was the expensive and impressive BMW 5 Series.

SIMI anticipates that new car sales in the second half of the year should mean that the market for new cars will reach a total figure of 132,000 that was predicted at the start of the year.

Sales of new cars in the Dublin region showed one of the smallest declines at 4%, while the Dublin region now accounts for an increased proportion of the Irish car new market, up from 38% in 2016 to account for 40% in the first six months of 2017.

The BMW 5 Series

13 July 2017 GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

MOTORING

Kia crosses over with compact Stonic KIA HAS a new compact crossover type of SUV, called the Stonic, on the way for the end of 2017 as the Korean brand aims to get a slice of one of Europe’s newest and fastest-growing vehicle segments.

This market segment is called the B-SUV segment in motor industry language and currently accounts for 1.1 million new car sales in Europe each year, around 7% of the market. The segment is forecast to expand to more than two million annual sales in Europe by 2020.

Kia claims that the new Stonic will be the most customisable Kia ever, inside and out, and that it boasts true European design flair. The design of the car includes the familiar Kia ‘tiger-nose’ grille designed in Europe, in collaboration with Kia’s Korean design studio.

The new Stonic’s ‘Targa’-style roof enables buyers to choose a two-tone paint finish. It will be available in up to 20 two-tone colour combinations, with a choice of five distinctive colours for the roof.

A range of lightweight, downsized, turbocharged petrol and diesel engines are available, each paired with a manual transmission, claims to deliver maximised driver engagement and effi-

ciency. Buyers have the choice of Kia’s lightweight 1.0-litre T-GDI (turbocharged petrol direct injection) engine, producing 120bhp, as well as 1.25or 1.4-litre naturally-aspirated MPI (multi-point injection) petrol engines. An 1.6-litre diesel engine completes the range, offering the lowest emissions in the line-up.

Kia claims that the car’s European-tuned steering and suspension are designed to offer an exciting drive, with immediate handling responses and a stable ride. The car is fitted as standard with electronic stability control and vehicle stability management (VSM), ensuring the front-wheel drive Stonic can cope in all conditions. Specific functions of VSM include torque vectoring by braking, straight line stability, and cornering brake control.

The car gets Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, bringing seamless smartphone functionality to the touchscreen infotainment system. Like other Kia models, it is available with heated front seats, automatic cruise control and keyless entry.

The car claims class-leading shoulder room and generous leg- and head-room. The impressive 352-litre boot capacity expands or shrinks as required with a two-step boot floor.

The Stonic compact SUV due here by the end of the year comes with Kia’s quality promise; the car will be sold as standard with the company’s unique seven-year, 150,000km warranty

GAZETTE

24 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 July 2017

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA

SPIDER MAN HOMECOMING: FRANCHISE GETS A MUCH-NEEDED KICKSTART

ReelReviews

Spidey gets a breath of fresh air in fun reboot A F T E R a n u n w a rranted franchise reset with Andrew Garfield’s regrettable turn as one of Marvel’s most beloved heroes, no one was asking for another Spider-Man movie.

Thank God we got one.

Spider-Man: Homecoming (Cer t 12A, 133 mins) Spider-Man: Homecoming, directed

by Jon Watts, returns the characters to his fundamentals, giving us the friendliest neighbour Spider-Man we’ve seen on the screen thus far, and a much-needed return to super-hero basics for the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Most refreshi ngl y, Homecoming comes unburdened with the now entirely unnecessary Spider-Man origin story.

This is a clever and genuinely admirable move on the screenwriters’ part; after two franchise resets, everyone and their uncle knows how Spidey got his powers and why he does the things he does (FYI: radioactive spider bite, murdered uncle, compulsion to help others).

After some brief backstor y to the movie’s

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

villain, T he Vulture (Michael Keaton), we’re returned to the air-strip battle of Captain America: Civil War, in which we first met Tom Holland’s Spider-Man. This time around, the action is captured straight from Spidey’s phone, and comes complete with excited post-battle commentary from their hero in a manner befitting any teenage YouTube enthusiast.

When the narrative starts proper, Peter is just getting used to his new life as a superhero, operating under the guise of an internship at Iron Man’s “Stark Enterprises” to cover his frequent disappearances from family and friends.

Peter navigates relationships at home with Aunt May (Marisa Tomei) and at school with best friend Ned (Jacob Batalon) and his crush, Liz

(Laura Harrier).

While Peter spends his extra-curricular time fighting street thugs, eventually moving up to bigger villains with the Vulture, Spider-Man’s real battles are those of the average teenager: struggling with authority figures, a need to grow up too fast, and the heartaches of high-school romance.

Spider-Man: Homecoming gets its priorities right – we don’t need another movie about superheroes battling world-threatening forces.

This is a genuine breath of fresh air.

Indeed, the spirited tone and vibrant palette of Homecoming is the perfect foil to DC’s overly grey, ultra-grim ‘Expanded Universe’, and Spidey finds the time to poke fun at that world’s everbrooding caped crusader.

However, Mar vel’s stable of heroes get its fair share of mockery too – none more so than Captain America, who frequently appears in educational classroom videos at Peter’s school, and who Hannibal Buress’s jaded gym teacher refers to as

OKJA

Deliciously subversive NETFLIX serves up its first bona-fide cinema hit – which most of us will watch at home instead – with Okja (Cert 15A, 120mins).

Long story short: company creates Okja, a genetically modified superpig to make some superbucks; little girl who raised pig goes on a rescue mission when the company decides it’s time to go makin’ bacon. While its tone is all over the place, Okja is a movie marvel, and an enjoyable romp.

DESPICABLE ME 3

Merry minion mayhem

We’ve had more than enough dour, grim superhero films of late – thankfully, this new

THERE are plenty of Grusome scenes in Despicable Me 3 (Cert G, 90mins) when the eponymous baddie-who’s-not-so-bad and his yellow pals get mixed up with his long lost twin brother. Cue mishaps, minions, and an amusing threequel in the popular franchise. There’s nothing very fresh or innovative here, but the Despicable crew do what they do well in this enjoyable film.

Spiderman film has a much more lighthearted centre, and is all the better for it

a “war criminal” in one of the film’s most subtly hilarious throwaway gags.

Without a world to save, there’s plenty of space for Downey Jr’s Iron Man to operate at his most loveably pigheaded.

After all the brooding and feuding of Civil War, where Iron Man undoubtedly pulled the narrative short straw, this is a welcome return to form for the character.

Michael Keaton turns in the MCU’s best badguy performance since Tom Hiddleston’s Loki.

The Vulture is a villain

not fuelled by a hunger for power or world domination, but by disdain for the state and a need to provide for his family, justifying his life of crime in a manner similar to Tony Soprano.

However, it’s Holland that shines here, delivering on all the promise of his brief appearance in Civil War. Spider-Man: Homecoming demonstrates, with an expertise crafted over 16 MCU films (mistakes made and lessons learned), that you can update, modernise or outright alter a superhero’s story, just as long as

you stay true to the heart of the character (protesting fan-boys be damned).

Not since Marvel’s first go-round at Captain America has a hero been so wonderfully in swing with the spirit of the source material.

It may suffer from a lack of tension and some clumsy action set-pieces, but Spider-Man: Homecoming is the best version of the character yet.

Maybe not the hero we asked for, but in these trying times, he’s certainly the hero we need.

Verdict: 8/10

THE BOOK OF HENRY

Stunning in its own way ANOTHER week to give a nod to this spectacularly strange and truly, truly terrible film. The Book of Henry (Cert 12A, 105mins) is all about your typical boy genius, Henry. SPOILER: he dies halfway through the film, but not before leaving how-to instructions for his single mum to murder (yes, murder) their next-door neighbour, who may be abusing his stepdaughter.

Words fails us ...

13 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

GAMES While an awful lot of the game is spent with a first-person view of your ship’s cockpit and HUD, as well as in-game menus, the game’s optional cameras show off some very, very pretty places. Whether in your ship, visiting a space station, cruising through space or roaming about on a quiet moon, the game can look pretty incredible at times, regardless of your platform.

Screengrabs: Shane Dillon

ELITE DANGEROUS: CONSOLES GET A GREAT PORT OF THE HIT 2015 PC GAME – BUT AT A COST

A stellar experience

SPACE is an awfully big place, but when it comes to games set in space – on contemporary consoles, at least – gamers are pretty much stuck on terra firma.

The reasons are many and varied, but by and large they boil down to the view that space-set games are probably too potentially complex, and too niche, to bother developing a game for.

Still, console gamers can now set off on their own galactic adventure with the recently released Elite Dangerous (PS4, XBO, Cert 7, c. €25) – a long-awaited port of the popular 2015 PC title.

On whatever platform, ED is a modern take on the legendary 1984 BBC Micro title, Elite, following pretty much the same principle, but with shiny 2017 visuals and some

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com

serious programming grunt under the hood.

Now as then, gamers are given an entire galaxy to explore – our own Milky Way – with countless star systems to make their way to, with their starting spaceship (little more than a tin can with big dreams) getting traded in for ever bigger, better ships along the way.

It’s down to the gamer to choose the way they want to play the game, and thus shape the unique adventure that they’ll find along the way.

For example, miners might happily dig around

in asteroid fields looking for lucrative minerals; space pirates might raid shipping lanes for goods to sell; couriers might ship sensitive information around – there’s even space for people to run glorified taxi services for rich snobs, if they like.

Whatever you want to do, ED provides lots of choice to do so, as you set about choosing the missions you want to tr y, and then spend time upgrading your ship and tinkering with all kinds of systems to help you stay on the right – or wrong – side of the law.

As a game that can be played solo or with others online, players can even spend their time exploring, trying to find and

blow other gamers out of the skies, further adding to their loot and reputation (or they can be a big wuss like me, and just run a lucrative freight service with no weapons but one hell of

an engine to outrun any trouble).

Needless to say, there’s an awful lot of content here, with a daunting amount of stuff to see and do in a vast game, which requires

And now, a warning. The ‘base’ game is available here for €25, with all of the galaxy-hopping fun you could ever want. However, an entire second half of content – including being able to visit planets, zip about in a rover, as well as some other cool stuff – is locked away behind a €25 paywall. While I think it’s worth it, this seems like a strange system to me, and is likely to be offputting to many.

serious grinding (levelling up) to progress.

However, alongside some content set behind a paywall (see left), the daunting choice in the game, its steep initial learning curve, as well as the frequently clunky controls, could leave Elite circling the shelves in search of a patient owner.

It’s also worth noting that despite the relative paucity of some parts of the game, the graphics can stutter at times, with some unwanted lag.

Still, despite its flaws and ED’s niche nature, those who stick with the game will find it a rich and uniquely atmospheric experience.

After all, there’s just

nothing quite like Elite on consoles at the moment, with it bundling in some of the add-ons that have fleshed out the PC original since its release, further adding to its value.

Ultimately, the spirit of the 1984 original is also very much to the fore here, with ED providing a truly vast amount of things to do.

Elite Dangerous is another ‘Marmite’ title – some gamers will love it, while an awful lot will find it deathly dull.

Would-be Elite commanders are unlikely to find themselves making the Kessel run in less than twelve parsecs here, but if you have the time and patience to tinker around with ship loadouts, galaxy maps, warping about solar systems and planning your rise from Harmless to Elite, it’s a must-buy.

26 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 July 2017

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28 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 July 2017

SPORT

FastSport CLONDALKIN DENIED IN SMITH CUP DECIDER: ETB CLONDALKIN missed out on the Bobby Smith Cup title last week as they were undone 2-0 by ETB Carrigaline at the Carlisle Grounds.

The Cork outfit had most of possession in the first half in a very entertaining game but failed to break down a very resolute Clon defence which was well-marshalled

by Dolapo Lawal.

Cal Sheehy opened the scoring midway through the first half.

Clondalkin created the better opportunities as Sam Afolabi went close after a right wing pull back from Glen Fullam and Eoin Devereux got in on goal a few times but failed to hit the target.

The game was more even in the second half with Clondalkin’s Leon Foley going close and Claudio Silva very prominent for Clondalkin in the middle of the pitch.

But substitute Ryan McCarthy side-footed home a corner from Graham Bogue in the final minute to wrap up the victory for Carrigaline.

PARALYMPICS: WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS BECKON FROM RAHENY ATHLETE

Comerford goes from zero to 100 with scholarly outlook

 JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

IF ORLA Comerford’s emergence onto the Paralympic scene in time for the Rio Games last year was something of a dramatic one, her trip to London to take part in the 2017 World Paralympic Championships later this month will be much more conventional.

Comerford traveled to Brazil almost straight off the back of her leaving cert last summer, a move she described as “zero to one hundred” as she jumped in the deep end of a first major championship.

The Raheny Shamrocks club runner has been competing since the age of six and does battle in the visually impaired T13 category, reaching the final in the 100 metres last summer.

Now a student at NCAD, she feels more prepared this time around.

“It’s going really well,” Comerford told the Gazette.

“The competitive season so far has been good; the main difference from last year is that I’ve come through all the

Orla Comerford in action at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games. Picture: Paul Mohan/Sportsfile

rehab for a long-term injury and I’m feeling a little more confident. I seem to be able to get through a little more prep without getting injured.

“I’m not really sure what I’ll be up against in London as there are often people out

there you don’t know about,” she adds.

Classification “New people are classified before races, and other people move categories, for example between T12 and T13.

“You think you know who you’ll be facing, but there are often a couple of people running good times who you haven’t come across before.

I’m expecting a lot of the same competition as in Rio, but also a few new young peo-

ple, or people who’ve moved into my category.”

In between the two major championships, Comerford made the brave decision to attend NCAD, a college with no athletic pedigree to speak of, turning down scholarships at more sport-leaning universities like UCD and UL. “It was a really hard decision to make but I’m very artistic minded, and I wanted to put together a portfolio and have a go,” she explains.

“I said I’d only try once and if I didn’t get in, I’d treat that as what’s meant to happen.

“They’ve been understanding about training camps and competitions and things like that, so it’s been great. I’ve been training with the same group at Raheny for years, and I’ve had the same coach for quite a while now, so I have plenty of support elsewhere.”

As for aims for London?

“It’s hard to say, it comes down to the race on the day,” Comerford tells us.

“I always look at times, of course, and good times do tend to mean good results, but what happens on the day is what really matters.”

Multi-talented Rosser preaches touch rugby gospel  BERNARD DUFF sport@dublingazette.com

Ireland’ women’s touch rugby side in action against Scotland last weekend. Picture: Gordon Heggie

THE multi-talented Tania Rosser is looking to spread the gospel of touch rugby this summer following her dominant performances on the netball court.

The former Irish contact rugby international scrum-half says the touch version is starting to spread in Dublin.

“Touch is a 6-a-side game,” she said. “It’s very fast and very skillful. Anyone can take it up as the contact is minimal so you mostly won’t need prior experi-

ence in other versions of rugby.”

The game is run by the Ireland Touch Association and in Dublin the action takes place in Terenure School on Wednesday evenings.

“We have a mixed sex competition and a women’s comp too” says Rosser. “We also expanded and now we have six clubs in Dublin. For instance, we are starting in Clontarf and DLSP in Kilternan this summer too.

“The IRFU are also starting a new Touch competition this summer too which will be located in Donnybrook. Just check

out Ireland Touch on Facebook and you can get playing”.

The Ireland team are the Irish Falcons and both a men’s and a women’s team travelled over to Edinburgh to play in the international Premier Permit Tournament last weekend – important development prior to next year’s European Championships.

Playing against their more established neighbours, the results didn’t go as planned.

Chris Tuataga also of Dublin Sports Club and the Irish Falcons said: “We took a while to tighten up our defence and once

we did that we were glad that we definitely could compete at the top teams’ level”.

With multiple national teams from England, Scotland, France and, just for the men, Wales, the competition at the Peffermill Playing Fields in Edinburgh was a bit too tough this time for Ireland.

They finished in the plate competition below the main cup by finals day on Sunday. But with the game expanding dramatically here it won’t be long until the Irish Falcons are beating the best.

13 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Rugby World Cup fever as Ireland fight on four fronts  BERNARD DUFF

IRELAND’S men’s team are ramping up their preparations for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup in October having booked their passage via last autumn’s qualifiers.

But they aren’t the only Irish rugby league team competing in a World Cup this year. Prior to the World Cup, Sydney will host the Festival of Rugby League World Cups in early July in which four competitions will take place: women’s, Army, Police and Universities. It’s the latter that the Ireland Students team is currently participating.

With a cost of close to €4,000 per person, it might have seemed impossible to send the team of 21 players and four staff. But as Rugby League Ireland (RLI) executive Richard Egan explains: “A portion was contributed by our sponsors McGettigans and there were contributions too from Sport Ireland too but it was the students themselves, their families and friends who contributed the vast majority of the funds”.

The team is a new one as the cycle only began in January.

“We held open trials in all four provinces.

We even had players coming in who had never played league before who made it through the trials and onto the panel.”

With four matches scheduled against Pacific Nations, Scotland and the might of the hosts Australia in the group stages before a placement match the experience will be great for the development of the game.

“The 2021 World Cup is just four years away and the students who mostly are in their early 20s now can look ahead to the tournament in the UK and possibly get to play in the main Rugby League World Cup if they stay focused.”

With Rohan Smith, a professional league coach joining with Ireland students coach Karl De Chenu already the players have had a great experience.

“We used our contacts to train with the Canterbury Bulldogs Under-20 team and also got to watch an NRL match.”

Ireland lost their first game to an experience Pacific Nations 48-4 on Friday. But the true benefit will be in the years to come.

Brill’s blind ambition at Irish open championship Dundrum woman fulfils her dream of landing golf title with victory, beating the world champion by 15 shots; she did so while also co-hosting the event and running its organisation  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

BLIND GOLFER Carol Brill fulfilled her dream in winning the Irish Blind Open golf championship last weekend, a frantic victory in a tournament she also had a huge part in organising.

The Dundrum native suffers from Usher Syndrome, a progressive condition that causes the slow deterioration of both eyesight and hearing, and currently has a visual range of approximately 1% of the normal range, as well as some hearing difficulties.

Her title, won over two days, came with a massive 15-shot win over the reigning World Blind Golf women’s champion,

American Linda Port.

Describing an intensely busy weekend, she also greeted many of the competitors, had a key role in the scoring of the competition, acted as the main contact point for visiting golfers, and even organised the logistics of getting competitors back to the airport. She explained that the win hadn’t sunk in until she had the chance to call her mum and pass on the news.

“The catchphrase of the weekend came from my guide Theresa Schutte [of the same family as the Dublin and Cuala hurlers], who told me to focus on ‘self-care’ ahead of my first round on the Thursday,” Brill recalled.

“The practise day on

Carol Brill is presented with her Irish Open title.

Thursday didn’t really happen, as I spent so much time talking to competitors. On Friday, Theresa took me off to a nearby course, Malin Castle, to warm up away from the logistical stuff.

“Despite the lack of practise on the main course, which I’ve played a few times before, I had a great front nine,” Brill recalls of her opening round at the championship course in Greenore, County Louth.

“I’ve always had a bad front nine on that course.

I kept scratching the second hole, in particular, but surprisingly it went really well.

“I was absolutely exhausted by the 18th, so much that I don’t remember it well. I do remember

myself and Theresa falling out of the golf buggy as it pulled away, and I think that jolted me into action. I was amazed to find I was five shots up on Linda Port, but I was aware a lot of these players always have better second days.”

Having had a rough night working on scoring and second day pairings, Brill’s Saturday started badly.

“The front nine weren’t great, and the 10th hole was disastrous; I hit two bunkers,” she recalls.

“I was in tears leaving the tenth hole because I thought it was over, but I pulled myself together and promised myself that I wouldn’t be more than one over par for the last eight holes. I managed that, and learnt when I got in that I’d won by 15 shots.”

Brill’s win is all the more extraordinary given that she also spends much of her life campaigning for political recognition for dual sensory loss.

“We’ve formed an advocacy group, meeting a few times a year, with the aim of first gaining recognition for dual sensory issues, and then creating a register looking at needs. There are over 70 types of blind deafness, and their needs are very different,” she explains.

“For example, one of my friends has the same syndrome as me, but she has far more problems with her hearing, where-

as mine are more with sight. She also lives very rurally and can’t rely on the phone signal.

“And that’s just within one syndrome. The government but out guidelines for deaf blindness recently, but they take a very extreme view of everybody as being totally blind and totally deaf, which is just not the case.

“The guidelines talked about translators as a key point, for example. I don’t need that, but it doesn’t mean I don’t have other issues.

“A register of specific issues applying to specific people would be really helpful in aiding help in this area, especially in employment, education, public transport problems, areas like that. Ironically, when it comes to this area, policy is somewhat deaf and blind.

“We’re not hopeful of change under this government, but I’m also expecting an election in the next twelve months, so we’re playing a long game with the white paper.

“Essentially, it’s doing the work for them, in order to make it very clear what’s needed.”

Brill, meanwhile, will continue in competitive golf, heading to Vienna for the Austrian Open in September, and Sydney for the Australian Open in October. The political angle will remain “simmering in the background”.

GAZETTE

30 FINGAL GAZETTE 13 July 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

ATHLETICS: STREIMIKYTE’S LIFE FEATURES IN NEW DOCUMENTARY

North county pairs earn their place at the Belfry SWORDS golfers will be well represented at the UK and Ireland finals of the American Golf Championships this September after three pairings put in hugely impressive displays at regional qualifying.

The pairs will now make their way to Ryder Cup venue, The Belfry, for the finals of the competition’s ladies and seniors championships.

In the ladies’ qualifier held at Roganstown Golf Club, Kay Farrell and Orla McGuiness, pictured above, beat the field with some ease as they recorded 40 points to take the title.

Qualifying in second place were Marion Delaney and Doreen Bell, who more than held their own with a creditable 37 points.

In the seniors, John Brazil and Des Rooney, members at Swords Open Course, needed to play the rounds of their lives to come in with 44 points, beating the field by just a single point.

All three pairs will now join qualifiers from all over the UK and Ireland in front of Sky Sports’ cameras at the Belfry Grand Finals where they will compete across two days to be crowned American Golf Champions. This win also puts them in contention for the Tournament of Champions in Mauritius, should they succeed at the iconic British venue.

“Our championship events have proven incredibly popular over recent years,” said Daniel Gathercole, Director of Marketing and Communication at American Golf. “We love to see competitive golf played with a smile on golfer’s faces so we can’t wait to welcome all our qualifiers to the Belfry to have a great time and do battle for the title.”

Local American Golf Manager John Storey, from their Dublin added, “It’s great to know that we’ll have golfers representing Dublin at the Championship finals.

“We’ve got a fantastic golfing community in the region and I’m delighted that American Golf can give local golfers the chance to play at an iconic venue like the Belfry against qualifiers from all over the UK and Ireland.”

Greta Streimikyte competing in the T13 1,500m Paralympic final last September in Rio. Picture: Paul Mohan/Sportsfile

Greta stars on track and screen  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

PARALYMPIC athlete Greta Streimikyte will travel to London in a confident and ambitious mood despite a recent injury, as one of 10 athletes representing Ireland in the Paralympic World Cha mpionships this week.

Streimikyte – a DCU International Relations Student who has had vision difficulties since shortly after her birth – told the Gazette she’s recovering well from a winter injury, and will go to London looking to get a personal best over the

1,500 metres.

“It’s really exciting, as it’s my first World Championships. I’ve heard really good things, and I’m really hoping the atmosphere is as supportive as in Rio,” the Swords-based woman told GazetteSport.

“It’s great to come up against world class athletes and see where you’re at every two years.

“I had an injury back at the end of January, and it’s taken me a while to get back. But I managed to stay fit, on the treadmill and the bike while I was injured, and that helped. My recovery’s been good, and I think

CAPTAIN’S PRIZE Breen follows father’s path GERARD Breen (28 handicap) won Malahide Golf Club’s Captain Eamon O’Reilly’s prize with a 36-hole total of 79 points stableford. It gave him a threeshot winning margin.

It continued his family’s association with the prize. In 2012, Breen’s father Sean (with a handicap of 14) won Captain Frederick Moran’s prize.

the race should go well.

“I was lucky in Rio, in that it was a very fast race and that enabled me to get a PB,” she continues.

“It’s impossible to know what to expect in London, but I’m confident I can have a brilliant race.

It’s really about seeing what I can do when I get there.”

M e a nw h i l e S t r e i mikyte’s experience in Rio – and her entire life leading up to her Olympic moment – has been immortalised in a short film entitled simply Greta.

Happily describing the “brilliant experience” of being the focus of the

documentary, the athlete told us “I learnt a bit about myself, as my family talked about our early lives, and it got quite emotional.

“It’s not really about the Olympics, though in a way it is. It’s mostly about our family and our journey, and it’s really special to be able to do something like that. I hope people get to see it.”

Streimiky te’s stor y explores her early-life eye surgeries, talking to her parents, before tackling her family’s relocation to Ireland from Lithuania in 2011, and her journey to the Irish citizenship and the Rio Olympics. Greta

is showing at the Galway Film Festival this weekend, and is expected to be more widely shown later this year.

The young athlete’s long-term aim post London will be the Tokyo 2020 Games, where she believes she will be at her peak.

“You go to every championship aiming to get a medal, but I feel I’ll be experienced and ready for Tokyo,” she tells us.

Whether her future’s successful or not (and we wouldn’t bet against the infectiously positive runner), the story so far has been nothing short of extraordinary.

13 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

SPONSORSHIP DEAL

St Finian’s get Morton and Flanagan support

CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS BELLEWSTOWN Races: Go raibh maith agat, Teresa, Gary and their team on a

ST FINIAN’S have announced that Mor-

ton & Flanagan Auctioneers Main Street Swords have sponsored the Swords-based club’s Under-9 boys team with a new set of jerseys.

Pictured at the presentation were some of the Under-9 boys team along with coach Tanya Mulligan and Joseph, Jane and Jennifer Morton from Morton & Flanagan.

very successful day.

We have raised badly needed club funds and will soon communicate to members the club upgrades that can

LADIES FOOTBALL: NORTH COUNTY STARS TO THE FORE

Athletic Section: A big thank on their

ported this event.

ment for the Sluagh Hall.

Dublin Senior Ladies: Comhghairdeas

Summer hurling: Join the fun with

to the squad and our own Sinead, Fiona,

summer hurling for all our U-8, U-9

Denise and Emer who made it six Lein-

and U-10 players. It takes place every

ster titles in a row after beating West-

Monday and Thursday night at 6.15pm

meath in the final.

to 7.15pm in Holywell. New players and

Dublin 3-18 Westmeath 0-8  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

ST SYLVESTER’S Sinead Aherne captained the Dublin ladies footballers to an emphatic sixth successive Leinster senior ladies football championship title.

Sunday’s 3-18 to 0-8 win at Netwatch Cullen Park in Carlow saw Mick Bohan’s side in full control inside the first few minutes, as they raced out of the blocks to dominate midway through the first half.

dominance.

Healy again found space to fire the Dubs into a chunky 3-8 to 0-5 half time lead.

T he clinical Dubs headed for the break with smiles on their faces, then, and were happy to show their possession football and control proceedings through the likes of Aherne – who often found herself on the end of the capital side’s chances – and the impressive Nicole Owens as their forward line consistently showed they know where the posts are.

Denise McKenna

Bootcamp with Noel: Every Tues-

cessful start with 225 kids and perfect

day morning at 9.30am and now, every

weather.

Thursday evening at 8pm. All fitness levels are welcome.

the last of a four-part series presented

Classes are €5 per session and all you

by Dara O’Cinneide featured Sinead

have to do is turn up five minutes before-

Finnegan in a Dublin jersey. It looked

hand on the day. The bootcamp will be on

at how science and technology have

the all-weather pitch in Fingallians and

embraced our game in a quest for bet-

will go ahead rain/hail/shine.

Gaelic 4 Mothers: Well done to our

Dublin Minor Ladies: Good luck to

group of Mammies who completed the

Shannon Murtagh, Deverla Snow and

mini marathon but who also raised €1,071

the Dublin minor team who play their

for cancer research.

Lotto: We had no winner last week. The

Hurling School of Excellence: Tuesday,

new jackpot for Tuesday evening will be

July 25 – Friday, July 28. This camp will

€3,683. Last week’s numbers are 6, 16, 25,

be run by Dublin hurlers Sean Hickey and

32 and 35.

ST FINIAN’S

could have added to the goal tally in the dying seconds, with a last gasp Westmeath stop just keeping out the player who’s proving a great addition to the side this year, and grabbed 0-2 of her own after coming off the bench.

Overall, the contest was relatively serene in the second half, with Dublin ringing the changes and keeping the Lake County at arms-length as they comfortably got their hands on a sixth title, also a third consecutive victory against a Westmeath side that must be sick of the sight of them.

members are welcome to join in.

start of the camps. We had a very suc-

All-Ireland semi-final this Saturday.

Noelle Healy scored the opening goal after 17 minutes, finding herself in front of an open goal after great work from Clann Mhuire’s Carla Rowe found space amid the Westmeath defence.

The Dubs were already a score up but the goal brought on a period of utter dominance that effectively closed the game out by half-time.

Rowe and Healy were doing much of the damage up front but it was Syl’s Niamh McEvoy’s hand pass into Lauren Magee – who made no mistake from 12 yards out – that cemented the

Kellogg’s Cul Camp: Monday, August 14 to Friday, August 18. donation of €1,000 towards gym equip-

ter performances.

LEINSTER SFC FINAL

day, August 8 to Friday, August 11.

club members and sponsors who sup-

GAA Nua on RTE: On Monday evening, in

Aherne leads Dublin to six titles in a row

Paul Flynn Football School of Excellence: This will now take place from Tues-

now take place. Thank you also to the

Football camp: Last week was the

Dublin celebrate their sixth Leinster success in a row. Picture: Peter Hickey/GAAPics.com

Shane Howard.

IT WAS mixed results for the AHL4

The second summer camp will take

team who beat Clanna Gael Fontenoy

place Tuesday, August 15 to Friday

on Wednesday evening with a great

August 18 and the third camp will take

comeback, securing a place in the

place Tuesday, August 22 to Friday,

quarter final of the junior A champi-

August 25. Online payments can be

onship.

made under the Summer Camps 2017

Goals from James Shelly and Shane

side menu on the club website, www.

O’Brien were crucial as was staunch

stfinians.com. Forms are also avail-

defending from Shane Murphy. The

able and payments made in the club

team were beaten, however, by Na

office. Forms can also be downloaded

Fianna in the league in Mobhi Road on

from the club website.

Saturday.

There are Boxercise classes taking

Golf classic: €240 per team, the

place in the clubhouse activity room

price also includes a meal. Contact

every Monday evening. For further

James Devlin on 086 400 0324, Shay

details, please contact Karen at 087

Leathem on 087 217 2215, Alan McGrath

776 5165.

on 087 652 9429, John Moore on 086

The club lotto jackpot on July 7 was

064 3626 to reserve a tee or sponsor

€1,900 and the numbers drawn were

a hole/tee or box. Please support the

3, 11, 18 and 28. There was no win-

annual golf classic, proudly sponsored

ner. Lucky dip winners of €24 were

by Sky Handling Partner, will which be

Mary Doherty, Ingrid Gargan, Maree

held in Forest Little Golf Club on Fri-

McDonagh and Fearghal O’Regan. Next

day, August 4.

week’s jackpot is €2,000.

A big thank you to Morton & Flana-

The club bingo takes place this and

gan Auctioneers Main Street Swords

every Friday upstairs in Peacocks at

who sponsored the U-9 boys team

8.30pm. The jackpot is €1,400.

with a new set of jerseys.

The club shop is open on Saturday

A word of thanks also to all of the

mornings only from 11am to 1pm dur-

coaches and helpers who facilitated

ing July and August. Check out the

the smooth running of the Kellogg’s

latest price list on the club website.

Cul camp last week, led by GPO James

Club Shop vouchers make excellent

Devlin.

presents.

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR FINGAL SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

CAPTAIN FANTASTIC: St Sylvester’s Sinead Aherne leads the way in emphatic sixth Leinster senior title in a row P31

JULY 13 -19, 2017

LONDON CALLING FOR ORLA: Comerford taking scholarly approach to worlds bid P29

Gavin ready to launch The Island’s Gavin Moynihan made a major statement in Portstewart last weekend. Picture: Pat Cashman

The Island golfer hoping to use brilliant Irish Open performance as a springboard to greater success and a place on the European Tour

 DAVID DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

THE ISLAND golfer Gavin Moynihan is confident he can earn his first European Tour card for 2018 the hard way despite gaining a foothold in the Race to Dubai with a 14th place finish at the Irish Open.

Moynihan shot an outstanding eight under par 64 on the final day at Portstewart Golf Club in Derry to finish best of the Irish and scoop a prize in excess of €25,000.

“That round was big for me,” Moynihan told the Irish Golf Desk after he closed out the final day’s play with seven birdies and an eagle, with just one dropped shot.

“I had not really had like a low round since I turned pro. I had a few 67s and 66s, so to shoot eight under around this course — and it wasn’t easy today — it’s huge.”

The biggest carrot for the 22-year-old, however, is the prospect of securing a seat at the top table via the Challenge Tour, which he has been competing on for the past couple of months.

The Irish Open placement doesn’t help his standing on the Challenge Tour but he has the confidence to finish the year strongly and earn European Tour standing by finishing in the top 15.

Until recently, he’d been competing at a level below again, on the EuroPro tour, where he

won his first competition as a pro at Lee Westwood’s Close House in April.

Moynihan missed seven of the first 15 cuts of his professional career as he struggled to hit the ground running and was reliant on invitations to compete onto Challenge Tour events.

He had not been able to qualifiy for the Irish Open directly and only found out he had been invited a week in advance – his first appearance in the tournament since turning professional.

Moynihan says he never doubted himself during those dark early days on the pro tour, taking inspiration from the performances of his one-time Walker Cup teammate Paul Dunne.

Wicklowman Dunne made a splash at the British Open in 2015 as he became the first amateur to lead going into the final day before falling out of contention.

He hasn’t had it all his own way since turning professional after that performance but has managed to retain a European Tour card since, convincing Moynihan he can do the same.

“I didn’t [doubt myself]. Last year, even though things weren’t going great, I could see how Dunner was doing. I have been playing with Dunner since I was 16.

“I’d see how he was playing and I’d match him. I knew if he could do it, I could do it. It was just a matter of catching a break somewhere.”