Fingal

Gazette FINGAL

April 20 - 26, 2017

Find us on

afdad: Wasdfdsafdsafdsfaasfs P16-17

See Page 15 to enter

WIN SPORT Fingal SFC derby date P32

A THREE-NIGHT STAY FOR TWO AT THE 4 STAR FITZWILTON HOTEL IN HISTORIC WATERFORD CITY

Anti-cyclist posters blasted as ‘sinister’  SYLVIA POWNALL

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you One of the posters erected in Howth

OFFENSIVE posters poking fun at cyclists which were anonymously erected around Howth Head last week have been described as “sinister” and “worrying”.

Up to 50 of the cartoons

– including one of two lycraclad elephants on bicycles – were anonymously attached to lamp posts ahead of the bank holiday weekend.

Dublin Cycling Campaign spokesman Mike McKillen told The Gazette: “It shows a clear hatred, that is what’s

troubling me. There is a significant cohort of drivers who seem to think they own the road and seem to hate cyclists.

“Saying things like, ‘I’d run them off the road’, and practices like what we call ‘the punishment pass’ – driving

too close to deliberately give someone a fright – that is not funny.”

Fingal County Council said it did not give permission for the posters to be erected and they were taken down on Good Friday.

Continued on Page 5

2 FINGAL GAZETTE 20 April 2017

RESCUE 116 | COAST GUARDS’ TRIBUTE TO MISSING COLLEAGUES

‘We will not leave you – help is on the way’  SYLVIA POWNALL THE Irish Coast Guard last week issued an emotional statement a month after the Rescue 116 helicopter crash as a book of condolences was opened in Fingal (right).

Winch crewman Ciaran Smith (38), a native of Swords and a resident of Oldtown, and his colleague Paul Ormsby (53), from Ballyfermot, are still missing after their aircraft went down off the Mayo coast on March 14.

Dad-of-three Ciaran, a keen footballer and cyclist, was a popular member of his local Wild Geese GAA Club and had raised thousands of euro for cancer

charities through cycling events.

Last week, Fingal County Council marked a minute’s silence at the start of its April monthly meeting and a book of condolences was last week opened at County Hall, Swords and the local authority’s civic offices in Blanchardstown.

Fingal Mayor Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) and council chief executive Paul Reid placed a wreath at the Howth Sea Memorial as a mark of respect for the crew of Rescue 116, along with representatives of the local authority’s emergency management unit.

The search for the two men has been scaled back but is ongoing. Two of the

Mayor Darragh Butler signs the Rescue 116 Book of Condolence at C ounty Hall

crew – Captain Dara Fitzpatrick (45), and Captain Mark Duffy (51), were recovered and laid to rest.

In an emotional statement, the Irish Coast Guard said: “We will not leave you. You are not alone. Help is on the way.

Hold hope.

“[They were] people that lived their lives day to day, ready to come to the aid of strangers at a moment’s notice, and put themselves in harm’s way, so others may live.”

The families of the four crew members were briefed by investigators

on the preliminary Air Accident Investigation Unit report before it was released last week.

An interim review into the tragic crash detailed the last words recorded in the cockpit by the Rescue 116 crew before they collided with Black Rock island.

The last communication from the aircraft came at 12.46am, with Blacksod lighthouse advising it had no communication with Rescue 116 at 1.08am.

A m a s s i ve s e a r c h involving over 100 fishing vessels took place earlier this month after Ciaran’s heartbroken sister, Orla, issued a plea for help to find the men.

Celebrating the very best of Fingal

Pretty peacock is a winner for Eve, 6

SWORDS castle was transformed into a colourful family zone on Easter Monday as the town embraced the spirit of the inaugural Cruinniu na Casca festival.

Sharing the nationwide enthusiasm for the free public festival presented by RTE in association with Creative Ireland, locals and visitors thronged the architectural

jewel at the heart of Fingal’s rich heritage, where lots of local artists, craftmakers and artisan producers were on hand to showcase some of the best of the county’s diverse wares.

The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Darragh Butler, praised the fun- and fact-filled initiative, with his words echoed by the delighted families, tour-

ists and locals taking in some of the rich tapestry of sights and sounds in the wonderfully restored castle grounds, as well as tucking in to a range of tasty treats on offer.

The highly-successful event was a great way to showcase the sheer range of quality of goods and imagination found throughout the county.

See Gallery next week

FINGAL was well served by locals claiming some top awards in this year’s nationwide Texaco Children’s Art competition. One of the Fingal winners was Eve Aherne (6), from St Marnock’s National School in Portmarnock for her work entitled, Fluttering Feathers. Her great artwork (inset) earned her an impressive second prize placing in the 6-Years And Under category. Eve (right) is pictured with her mother Lynn, sister Emmy (8) and father John at the function to announce the top winners that was held in the Dublin City Hugh Lane Gallery. The prize-giving ceremony will take place next month.

Picture: Mac Innes Photography

FASTNews

Boost for communities as CCTV grant announced FINGAL communities are set to benefit from a new grant scheme for CCTV cameras.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald last week announced details of a grant-aided scheme to fund up to 60% of the total cost of installing security cameras.

The move aims to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour and assist gardai. Funding of up to €1milllion will be available each year for three years.

Welcoming the news, Deputy Alan Farrell (FG) said: “I am delighted to see the Government following through on commitments.”

All welcome at Baldoyle’s free community workshops A SERIES of free workshops on community engagement will take place in Baldoyle over the next ten weeks. The modules will depend on the number of participants but may include the following: How to Support Bees and other Irish endangered species (April 25); Eating from the wild – Gathering food and recipes (May 2); Self-expression via Stone Art/ Music/role-playing/flowers/writing (May 9).

Others include Local services and how to help including adopting a patch (May 16); Multiculturalism through food and music (May 23); Reducing your carbon footprint – and your bills (May 30); Preventing poor-health – taking best care of yourself and others (June 6); and Getting somewhere with your County Council – who are the useful names and what are their direct telephone numbers (June 13).

The workshops will take place each Tuesday from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at Baldoyle Community Hall. You can register by contacting 01 839 5338, by emailing info@baldoyleforum.ie, or downloading the registration form at www.baldoyleforum.ie – or just turn up!

Places limited but people are welcome to choose what days they’d like to attend. The workshops are sponsored by Educational Training Board (ETB) and Baldoyle Forum Clg.

€20m to help rural areas GOVERNMENT funding of €20 million for rural towns and villages is expected to benefit a number of Fingal communities. The scheme will allow for a review of planning legislation to allow the change of use of vacant commercial properties. It is hoped it will help revitalise towns and villages including Ballyboughal, Garristown, Loughshinny, Oldtown and The Naul.

The castle grounds were full of relaxing families and locals throughout the day

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

20 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 3

Gazette babies are the cutest...

WINNERS | CHECK OUT THE GA-GAZETTE’S SPRINGTIME BONNIE BABIES GORGEOUS JOE O’Carroll is The Gazette’s Spring Bonnie Baby, after a week of frantic voting!

Joe wins a photoshoot worth €180 from Gazette snapper and expert baby photographer Ali, of Alison O’Hanlon Photography.

The silver medals go to super cute Grace Ahern and little smiler Parker Daly, both of whom have won hampers worth €90 from NUK Ireland.

A massive “Thank you” to our many hundreds of readers who took the time to vote either by email or on Facebook. It was a close call, and if we’re honest, everyone who entered was a winner!

4 FINGAL GAZETTE 20 April 2017

FASTNews

No matter your age, background or gender, mental illness can affect any and

Tiger kidnapping trial collapses as jury feared “compromised”

all of us – it’s always okay to ask for help and support

OPINION | TEEN ON THE PROBLEM AFFECTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES

More support needed to help mental illness This week, 15-yearold Sarah Behan (right) from Swords tells us why we need to stop the stigma around mental health…

ANXIETY is something I have struggled with from a very young age, with the first time I remember being 13.

I’m almost 16 and still struggling with it, along with depression, and I feel like the stigma around mental illness needs to be broken.

Education is key. I believe teaching people from a young age is a good way to start.

I think young people are put down too much by older generations. I know of people who think that

the LGBT community are made up because all of a sudden it’s [LGBT matters] spoken about.

I know people who have laughed when I say that people are speaking about it [mental illness] now because society is more accepting than it was when they were younger.

I know of people who have asked me: ‘What do you have to worry about? You’re only 15,’ and who have told me that I ‘don’t know what stress is’, and that I will

when I’m their age.

Millions of young people are struggling with mental illness, and I think the older generations need to change their outlook. I’m sick of people saying that help is out there when it’s only available if you dig deep enough.

More funding needs to go towards helping people with mental illness and having free services they can visit.

I believe that everybody needs to be educated on different forms of mental illness and need to stop using mental illnesses as a joke. It’s a serious issue that kills.

Depression leads people to take their own life because it’s that hard to deal with.

Anxiety shuts people

off from the real world because the fear of messing something up is so huge.

Teach people that talking helps, things get better, and stop pressuring them into situations they clearly do not want to be in.

Allow young boys and grown men to know that it’s okay to cry and they can suffer from depression and eating disorders

too, and that the same help is available to them.

Smile at people, use somebody’s name when you’re talking to them, or even just ask them how they are.

Put helplines in public places. Advance the mental health teams and resources in secondary schools, and have properly trained counsellors there.

SWORDS will soon see events to further promote the idea of positive mental health and support services for all.

The nationwide Cycle Against Suicide event starts at North Street, Swords this Sunday, April 23, with more than 600 cyclists setting off to Drogheda and Dundalk on day one.

They’ll be helping to spread the message nationwide that it’s ok not to feel ok, and it’s absolutely ok to ask for help.

In addition, a Mental Health And Wellbeing Fare will be held in the town on Saturday, April 22, bringing together a wide range of groups to raise awareness of the mental health help that is available for people both locally and nationally.

THE trial of a 35-year-old man accused of taking part in a tiger kidnapping collapsed last week amid fears the jury had been “compromised”.

A member of the jury told the judge he believed some jurors were getting information from outside the court Jonathan Gill, of Malahide Road, Swords stood trial for robbery and the false imprisonment of the family of a Co Louth postal worker in 2011.

The jury had spent just under 14 hours over six days deliberating when a note from one of them was handed to the judge.

The author said he felt a duty to inform the court of his suspicions that some jurors were getting information from outside the jury and that they were using it to make their decision – something he felt was wrong.

He said he also heard two strangers on a tram talking about the case.

Jonathan Gill had denied being one of five people who held the family of a postal worker hostage while they forced him to steal €660,000.

On learning of the note, defence barrister Dean Kelly argued the jury had been “wholly and fatally compromised”.

Judge Elma Sheahan agreed and discharged the seven men and five women of their duties. Prosecutor Vincent Heneghan said there was no suggestion the jury had been “got at”.

Donabate/Portrane Tennis Club to serve up its grand opening

DONABATE/Portrane Tennis Club is holding its grand opening day this Saturday, April 22.

The club has been hailed as a local success story and has already attracted 360 members since first opening its doors less than 12 months ago.

Saturday’s event will begin at 3.30pm and includes a programme of junior matches, the ribbon-cutting ceremony, prize giving, raffle and a party until late.

Club marketing officer Ami O’Regan said: “What started as an idea in 2013 amongst a few tennis enthusiasts on our peninsula is now a reality.

“Our club is a testament to what sheer determination and perseverance can achieve – an inspiration to anyone who knows the rollercoaster ride it can be to get a sports club up and running.”

The club, located on the grounds of Donabate Golf Club, now has four flood-lit all weather pitches and a growing membership.

For further information, see its Facebook page or www.donabatetennis.com.

20 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 5

HOWTH

Another one of the posters erected in Howth

Cyclists speak out to reject ‘sinister’ insulting posters Continued from Page 1

One of the cartoons (above) appeared to aim a dig at speeding cyclists, with the slogan: ‘It’s the Hill of Howth not the Tour de France. Slow down’.

It’s understood that residents have become increasingly frustrated with a minority of cyclists coming down the hill at break-neck speed.

However, Mr McKillen said a sinister poster campaign was no way to go about addressing the issue.

He said: “I actually cycled out to Howth myself on Friday. Some drivers seem to have a sense of entitlement that they own the road and cyclists shouldn’t be there.

Negativity “The simple fact is that nobody owns the road – it’s a shared public space.

It’s not nice to see that sort of negativity, and the more people that cycle out to Howth, the better, because they don’t add to the traffic congestion.

“People should use public transport or their bike more from an environmental point of view, and this kind of intimidation is the last thing we need.”

Howth-based Cllr Cian O’Callaghan (SD) agreed that the approach taken was not constructive, adding: “I think if people have concerns about cyclists they should speak to some of the cycling groups and open up a dialogue.”

CAMPAIGN | SWORDS MAN USING FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Stephen’s on a mission to make our fair city more disabled-friendly  SYLVIA POWNALL DUBLINER Stephen Cluskey is leading a campaign calling for better access for those with disabilities.

The 32-year-old from Swords, who was paralysed in a freak accident at the age of 18, is the driving force behind the One Simple Change initiative.

The campaign calls on communities to take simple steps to create a more inclusive society for those with higher access needs.

Wheelchair user Stephen – the creator of the award-winning Mobility Mojo – hopes that by sharing his story he can encourage schools, councils, businesses and taxi drivers to get on board.

Stephen was a happy and healthy 18-year-old due to start his Leaving Cert year at Belvedere College when he fell off a bale of hay and broke his neck – and his life changed forever.

Instead of completing his schooling, he ended up in the Mater Hospital and then spent a year and two months at the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dun Laoghaire.

Reliving the horror of

the accident on August 4, 2002, he said: “As I was sitting there, all of a sudden I felt it [the bale] begin to move. I looked back and one of my friends was pushing it.

“I tried to keep my balance, next minute I fell. This was my Indiana Jones moment when I was trying to get out of the way of the big, rolling boulder.

“Unfortunately, this wasn’t a movie and I wasn’t as lucky as Indy, so as I went to quickly get out of the way I lifted my head and the rolling bale caught the back of my head pushing it forward and I heard a crack.

“Everything in my body went dead in an instant.

Next, I heard a bit of commotion. I asked one of my friends to lift my arm and I saw this limp, lifeless hand appear in front of my face – a hand I should have recognised as my own but didn’t.

“When he let, go my arm dropped to the ground with a thud, and I knew something serious had happened.

“I was taken to the Mater Hospital and after what seemed like an endless amount of scans and x-rays, the doctor came in

Stephen Cluskey with former Irish soccer international Kevin Kilbane. Picture: Paul Sherwood

to give me the news that I had broken my neck and I was paralysed.”

Stephen adapted to his new life as best he could and has been lobbying for accessible taxis since

2012 after being stranded until 6am on a night out with pals in Dublin city centre because no taxi could accommodate his wheelchair.

He told The Gazette:

“Just 6% of our taxi fleet is wheelchair-accessible compared to 80% in the UK. We are making good progress, but it is going to take time.

“Barriers in our physi-

cal environment can be more disabling than the disability itself but small changes have the power to make a world of difference to people dealing with mobility, visual, hearing and cognitive challenges.

“Imagine trying to meet friends for dinner but there isn’t enough space between the tables for you to navigate your wheelchair around. Imagine trying to decide what you’ll order if you can’t see the menu.

“Things that many people take for granted as being simple can become major barriers for people with higher access needs, so small changes can make a huge difference.”

Stephen appeared on RTE’s Late Late Show earlier this month after setting Kathryn Thomas and Kevin Kilbane a unique challenge to navigate the city in a wheelchair – with interesting results.

He is now urging people to visit www.challengeaccess.ie for ideas and practical tips on how to improve accessibility for the 600,000 people – 13% of the population – living with a disability.

Have a say on new chapter for libraries SUBMISSIONS have been invited for the Fingal Libraries Development Plan which includes plans to extend opening hours and increase automated operations.

The controversial plan – which would see some public lending facilities operate without staff – will be published later this year and will set out the council’s objectives for the

next five years.

Fingal County Librarian Betty Boardman is urging those who use the library service, as well as those who don’t, to complete a short questionnaire or make a submission as part of the public consultation process which closes at the end of April.

She said: “If the development plan is going to meet the needs of library users

and the citizens of Fingal, we need to know what they think about the services we provide and how individuals and organisations like schools and clubs think we can improve our libraries to meet their needs.”

The questionnaire and submission forms can be obtained online through Fingal County Council’s Consultation Portal (https://consult.fingal.ie/en/

surveys) and further information on the consultation process is available from any Fingal library.

In addition to its 10 branches, Fingal Libraries also has a Local Studies and Archives Department, four mobile libraries and a housebound service. In 2016, there were 1.14m visits to Fingal Libraries and 1.2m items were borrowed.

6 FINGAL GAZETTE 20 April 2017

R1

20 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 7

Out and About

Festive Easter holiday fun

W

E’RE not yolking – Dubliners all across the city (and even far beyond) had a cracking Easter this year, with lots of pretty eggs-cellent activities – not least the nationwide Cruinniú na Cásca which saw hundreds of free artistic and cultural events have taken place across the country.

Oscar McHenry (4) from Dublin holds on tight to his Easter egg, as Bossy – one of the the newly-born Spring lambs on his grandparents’ farm in Antrim – investigates. Picture: Julien Behal

While some Dubs braved beyond The Pale to share some fun times with their country cousins, closer to home people all around the city had a wealth of events to enjoy, with Easter musicals and shows helping to keep people of all ages entertained (and gave a bit of a break from munching away at delicious chocolate eggs).

Swapping the city for the country ... Laura Mae and Katie

Lucan United gets their youngest

Glencullen Dundrum Musical & Dramatic

Baldoyle Musical Society delights families once again

O’Brien with Alice and the Easter Bunny. Pictures: Aishling

members out in the sun for some

Society presents Barry Manilow’s

with their production of Seussical – The Musical

Conway

holiday fun

Copacabana at the Mill Theatre

8 FINGAL GAZETTE 20 April 2017

20 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 9

10 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

Out and About Pictures: Andres Poveda

 EMMA NOLAN SORROW, escape, starvation; Dublin’s hottest new attraction is a unique bus tour that takes passengers on a journey through Ireland’s darkest hour.

On board the Perseverance: Fleeing the Famine, passengers are invited to journey through Ireland in the famine years as actors weave together a moving and enlightening journey through Ireland’s darkest hour on board a custom designed bus.

The Perseverance bus has been entirely transformed into a famine ship, thrusting the audience on deck and back in time to encounter the stories of those that fled The Great Hunger.

The actual Perseverance was amongst the first of hundreds of ships to set sail from Ireland carrying the sick and starving people of the nation.

Using journals, letters, newspaper reports, government speeches, poems, songs and survivors’ stories, Hidden Dublin Tours have expertly crafted a truly unique experience.

Aboard passengers will discover the impact of British rule and the horrors of starvation and pestilence and uncover the voyages overseas, the thrilling rescues and tragic ends.

Listen to songs of sorrow and escape and witness the resilience of the Irish spirit.

The Perserverance; Fleeing the Famine is the fourth interactive bus tour from Hidden Dublin Tours.

The award-winning company bring to life the hidden histories of Ireland’s past through unique and exciting theatrical performances by professional actors on board custom designed tour buses.

The new tour is now available to the public and runs daily at 11.15am and 2,15pm from College Green, Dublin 2. For more information visit www.fleeingthefamine.ie.

Traveling through our darkest hour Actors Siofra O’Meara and Andy Gallagher

Creators Shane Whisker and Eilis O’Donnell

20 April 2017 GAZETTE 11

Live life

to the max

THE Dublin Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Mick is a threeyear-old Spaniel who has recently had one of his back legs amputated. Poor Mick had an old fracture that hadn’t been treated and his leg had set incorrectly, causing him trouble to use his leg properly and bear weight on it.

He is doing really well post surgery, but we would absolutely love to get him his forever home to convalesce in. He will need an adult-only home, where he will be the only pet initially. Any potential adopter would need to live close enough to the centre and have their own transport, as Mick will need regular check ups until he is fully healed. Mick LOVES cuddles and fuss, so the person/family must be OK with providing lots and lots of these and generally spoiling this handsome tripaw to bits!

If you think you could help Mick recover from his surgery and enjoy life to the max on three legs, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.

LIKE MICK





! y eyes into m E a Look V ld LO I wou ever furrr !

HOME

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS Chopped’s MD and co-founder, Brian Lee

Salad bar chain Chopped serves up 300 new jobs with ambitious expansion MORE than 300 new jobs are to be created thanks to the expansion of salad bar Chopped.

Brian Lee, co-founder and managing director of Chopped, announced the creation of 320 new jobs with 20 new stores are set to open across the country this year.

These stores will be joined by six new Chopped stores in the UK – the chain’s first outlets outside Ireland – with the creation of 110 jobs to service the new outlets and manage the international roll-out of the brand.

The new outlets will join existing Chopped locations in Dublin, Kildare and Galway. Chopped recently opened new sites in Talbot Street, UCD, and in Galway. Chopped outlets are also opening this year in counties Wicklow, Cork and Waterford, alongside continued expansion in Dublin.

Lee said: “Last year we set a target of increasing our staff numbers by 100 people and we exceeded that expectation by increasing our employees by 140 in 2016.

“Our staff are what makes Chopped the success it has become and we are looking forward to seeing our family grow as we expand across Ireland and beyond.”

Get to grips with tech

PICTURED taking part at the recent Bank of Ireland “Digital Arrows” session in Stillorgan library are David McCabe and Rachel Foster from Bank of Ireland, with Eileen Somerville. The event was one of many Bank of Ireland Digital Arrows events that ran during Get Online Week 2017.

Bank of Ireland has a dedicated team of Digital Arrows providing training around the country to help educate people around technology, introduce them to social media, assist in setting up an email account, and demonstrate how to bank online safely and securely.

The European-wide Get Online Week was an annual digital empowerment campaign to engage with and encourage people to use technology and the internet with confidence.

Joan Rock, Irish Life Assurance (Large Employer winners); Andrew Hayes, Helsinn birex Pharmaceuticals (Medium-Sized Employer winner) and Nicole Quinn, MCI (Small Employer winner) at the FDI National Workplace Wellbeing Day Awards 2017. Picture: Naoise Culhane

Approach to workers’ wellbeing wins awards

THREE Dublin companies have won awards for the National Workplace Wellbeing Day Awards this year.

Irish Life Assurance was named Ireland’s Best Large employer, while Helsinn Birex Pharmaceuticals took the honours in the Medium Size category.

The award for Best Small Company went to MCI (formerly Ovation Group), a Dublin destination management com-

pany.

Speaking at the award ceremony in Dublin, Dermot Doherty, manager, FDI Health Strategy said: “Today, more employees have access to health and wellbeing initiatives within the workplace than ever before.

“We hope that these award-winning companies will inspire an even greater number of employers to do more in this area by adopting a collabora-

tive approach to employee wellbeing.

“Our recent study showed that only a quarter of Ireland’s workforce takes the recommended level of exercise and that most employees believe that a healthier diet and more exercise in the workplace are likely to provide greater energy and wellbeing.

“This, in return, raises team moral, the overall culture of organisations

and leads to higher productivity.”

Alan Quinlan, principal, Mercer Health and Wellness (award sponsors) said: “Ultimately, it’s not about spending more – it’s about targeting spend to have a bigger impact across the general population.

“Organisations that get this right actually make savings on benefits and reduce the costs associated with managing work-

place health.”

The judges for the awards included John Treacy, chief executive, Irish Sports Council; Mar y Connaughton, director, CIPD Ireland; and Alan Quinlan, principal, Mercer Health and Wellness.

They commended the winners for their fresh and holistic approach to wellbeing and their seamless integration of it into the workplace.

Nestle Ireland appoints new country business manager NESTLE has appointed Andrew Shaw as the new country business manager for Ireland.

Andrew assumes responsibility for Nestle Ireland’s operations and its wide portfolio of products across the confectionery, beverage, food and pet care categories.

He will lead the company in Ireland as it continues to expand its presence and deliver growth across its categories.

Andrew has more than 20 years of international experience in the

FMCG sector. He has held a variety of supply chain management and leadership roles in Nestle UK & Ireland, and Nestle Switzerland.

His most recent role was as head of demand and supply planning for Nestle UK & Ireland.

Andrew has worked across many Nestle UK & Ireland categories, including pet care, confectionery, culinary, ice-cream and beverages.

He said: “I look forward to working closely with our dedicated team based in Citywest to drive further

growth across our multiple categories whilst bringing our iconic brands to new levels of customer and consumer engagement.

“It is a particularly exciting time to lead the business too, where we are announcing some significant market-leading research and development innovations to reduce sugar across our confectionery portfolio.”

Andrew is a graduate of Northumbria University where he obtained a Business Studies degree.

20 April 2017 GAZETTE 13

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

TRAVEL: MARVELOUS MADRID P24



GAZETTE

CINEMA: A MESMERISING MAIDEN P24

MOTORING: AMOUR FOR THE AMAROK P20

MUSIC: THE MECHANICS OF BUILDING A FESTIVAL

Helmet

Mike Skinner

BARE

In The Woods: “It’s a slow burner”

BARE in the Woods organiser, Peter Dunne offers a notably different line-up such as former The Streets frontman, Mike Skinner, rapper and spoken word artist, Akala, House of Pain and The Rubber Bandits

- James Hendicott talks to Peter Dunne about converting punters and agents to a startup festival.

See Pages 16-17

GAZETTE

14 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

ARTS: LITERARY STARS AND CULTURE VULTURES GET SET TO FLOCK TO DUBLIN

Festival to celebrate the city's write good arts stars DUBLIN is getting ready to celebrate its historic and contemporary connection with literature by welcoming some of the biggest stars from the literary stage this May as part of the International Literature Festival Dublin (ILFDublin), which runs from May 20 to 29.

Celebrating words, language, literature and reading of all genres, ILFDublin will feature more than 60 events, with everything from readings, discussions and interviews to debates, workshops, masterclasses and performances to enjoy.

Renowned for bringing the big names to Dublin, this year’s festival features a stellar line-up of writers, including Susie Orbach, Patrick McCabe, Ruby Wax, Elizabeth Strout, Colm Toibin, Lisa McInerney, Richard Dawkins,

Sally Rooney, Will Self, Madeleine Thien, Dusan Sarotar, Raja Shehadeh, Bettany Hughes, Dorit Rabinyan and Richard Ford.

M e a nw h i l e , p o e t s Michael Longley, Leontia Flynn, Kerrie O’Brien, Paula Meehan and Peter Wawerzinek will be featured, along with journalists Patrick Cockburn and Mary Fitzgerald.

Filmmaker Xiaolu Guo, historian Avi Shlaim and economist and former Greek Minister for Finance Yanis Varoufakis will also be here.

Tickets will be available from ilfdublin.com.

CALL TO CREATE THE PERFECT GIFT CARD THE search for Dublin’s up-and-coming creatives is on as One4all has launched its annual Design A Gift Card com-

petition, with its fifth run once again giving artists across the country the opportunity to get national exposure for their designs.

The winning design will be turned into a gift card and sold in An Post outlets nationwide and online in 2018. Budding artists, illustrators and designers are invited to design a unique gift card and carrier inspired by the theme: Happiness.

The 2017 judging panel consists some of Ireland’s best-loved creatives, including internationally acclaimed fashion designer, artist and printmaker Helen Steele, and esteemed street artist and art teacher Joe Caslin, who has drawn attention for his thought-provoking murals around Irealand including Cladagh Embrace (the same-sex

Water story! Author Dave Rudden reaches a dramatic part of The Little Raindrop as Jasmine Tessier, Grace Kavanagh and James Keane look on at the Little Ship Street steps, with the group playing their part to help promote the upcoming International Literature Festival Dublin 2017. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland

marriage mural which appeared on a George’s Street gable in the heart of the city).

Rounding off the judging panel for this year’s competition are Jerry Kelly, chief executive of Tweak.com, and Aoife Davey, group marketing manager at One4all.

Not only will the winner see their gift card design sold through One4all’s retail network, but they will also receive a MacBook Pro – an essential tool for any budding creative.

The closing date for entries is May 11, with further information and specific guidelines at www.one4all.ie/design.

HELP CLEAN UP OUR WONDERFUL CANALS CANALS Action Day is back this April and volunteers are needed to help with the clean-up on Saturday, April 22, from 10.45am to 1pm all along the banks of the Royal and Grand Canals.

Dublin City Canals Group invite volunteers of all ages to help clean up these two iconic Dublin canals, with starting points at Leeson Street Bridge, Spencer Dock, North Strand, Ashtown, Castleknock, Cross Guns Bridge, Grand Canal Basin, Sally’s Bridge or Bulfin Estates Resident’s Hall.

All equipment is provided – just bring yourself

and your energy!

The day is supported

by Dublin City Council, The Inland Waterways Association of Ireland and Waterways Ireland, together with local community groups and small local businesses, and has been organised in tandem with An Taisce’s National Spring Clean.

For further information, see Dublin Canals Action Day's Facebook page.

'WAKE UP' AND HELP SUPPORT PIETA HOUSE THE PEOPLE of Dublin are being urged to “wake up” and support Pieta House for this year’s Darkness Into Light events.

Last week, Electric

Ireland launched The National Wake-Up Call – a rallying cry to the people of Ireland to wake up to the critical issue of suicide and self-harm in Ireland.

Almost 500 people died by suicide in Ireland last year, so the public are being urged to support Pieta House to raise vital funds for suicide prevention, suicide bereavement and self-harm.

Wake up and walk from Darkness Into Light this May 6 at 4.15am. Dublin events are taking place in Malahide Castle, Marlay Park, Phoenix Park, Ringsend Park, Skerries and Tymon Park.

You can register at www.darknessintolight.ie.

GAZETTE

20 April 2017 GAZETTE 15

DUBLINLIFE

FEATURE

Calling all Superheroes SPECIAL OLYMPICS IRELAND: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR SPORTING BODY'S ANNUAL COLLECTION DAY  REBECCA WESTON

capital in 2018, meaning most of the organisation’s current activity is focused on Regional Advancement.

Motor Activities Training Programme Regionals took place at the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena recently, with all areas of Dublin represented.

Among the athletes were Matthew McHugh from Ballymun, Matthew Kinsella (right) from Perrystown and Gerard Hegarty, who is based in Stewart’s Care in Palmerstown.

Easte r n

Regional Director Liz Callery explained the importance of sport in SPECIAL Olympics Ireland are callthe lives of people with intellectual ing on Dublin's big-hearted heroes disabilities in Dublin. to help transform lives through sport She said: “Special Olympics by volunteering for their annual ColIreland is first and foremost a lection Day on Friday May 5th. sports organisation for people This year’s theme is ‘Currently with an intellectual disability, Seeking Superheroes’ with the goal but it provides athletes with far of recruiting volunteers to help on more than the physical benefits the day and inspiring the wider comof sport. munity to give what they can.

"Every day we see athletes The Special Olympics Ireland demonstrate courage, experience Games return to t h e joy and share long lasting friendships.”

Athletes from as young as six can train in a chosen sport and ultimately improve their quality of life.

Athletes’ families build an invaluable network of friendship and support, but money raised through the annual Collection Day is critical to the future of the programme. This year’s goal is to raise €650,000 on May 5th.

“We need 1,000 people to help in Dublin alone,” said Callery.

“If that many volunteers can spare a couple of hours to rattle a bucket at one of the junctions we’ll be based at, we’ll be a long way to meeting our target. Collection Day is the only day in the year where a call is issued for every community to support Special Olympics Ireland at the same time. There will be lots of coffee mornings, bag packs and fun events to get involved in too.”

Clockwise from left: Volunteer Kim O'Lane with Mohamed Sahid from Stewart's Special Olympics Collection Care, volunteer Lauren Murphy Kelly and athlete Gerard Hegarty. Below: Day is once again proudly supAthlete Matthew McHugh (centre) with his SNA and volunteer Danny and ported by eir. Open eir Wholesale Special Olympics Eastern Regional Director Liz Callery. Pictures: Ross O'Donoghue Managing Director Carolan Lennon says every cent counts.

“Special Olympics really does transform lives through sport, but it’s not possible without Collection Day,” she said. “It starts with recruiting volunteers to lend a hand on May 5th and eir employees will be among the thousands who will play their part in towns, cities and villages across Ireland.”

People looking to volunteer can register their interest at www. specialolympics.ie/collectionday Anyone who is unable to volunteer is asked to give what they can on the day or make a donation online.

Special Olympics Eastern Regional Director Liz Callery with athlete Matthew Kinsella and volunteer Karen Conlon from Cheeverstown House

WIN

A THREE-NIGHT STAY FOR TWO AT THE 4 STAR FITZWILTON HOTEL IN HISTORIC WATERFORD CITY

THIS fantastic prize includes:  Three nights B&B and one evening meal in the plush Met Bar Café for two people.  Bike Hire for one day on the new Waterford Greenway.

T&Cs Apply. Prize is subject to availability. Excludes Bank Holidays and Saturday nights in July & August.

Fitzwilton Hotel is the finest boutique 4 star Failte Ireland-approved hotel in Waterford city.

All 90 rooms have recently been refurbished.

The city centre is a mere 5 minute stroll and the hotel is located just two minutes from the bus & train station.

The renowned Met Bar Café and Chez K’s Bistro offer scrumptious menus catering for all taste buds.

For the adventurous out there, the stunning Waterford Greenway starts beside our hotel and is ideal for walk, running and cycling.

WEB: FitzwiltonHotel.ie PHONE: 051-846900

DUBLINLIFE

N O S ’ T A H W

E D I U G S T N E V E with JAMES HENDICOTT

Just Words

Rathmines arts venue MART introduce the fourth edition of their poetry night, a free event in the gallery featuring Raven, Adriana Ribeiro, Roisin Jenkinson and Kevin Dwan. April 26.

Record Store Day

A music lover’s and vinyl collector’s Christmas, Record Store Day takes over Dublin’s independent music retailers with dozens of live shows and unique musical releases. April 22.

Hanging On A Thread

Immersive debut exhibition from Aoife Banks takes a critical look at ‘fast fashion’ using sculptured textiles and audiovisual presentation. Launching at the In-Spire Galerie in Gardiner St on April 20, running until the 23rd.

Therapy?

Noisy Northern Irish metallers Therapy? tone things down for their latest tour, with a series of rare acoustic gigs. Drawing on a quarter of a century’s material, the quieter outings will be a chance to check out the strength of their songwriting. April 25, Whelan’s.

Dublin Canal’s Action Day

The canal clean up and biodiversity crew hold a special edition of their monthly meeting around Dolphin’s Barn, with a memorial action day for recently passed former member Don. April 22.

Private Lives

Noel Coward’s bittersweet love story continues its popular run at the Gate Theatre this week, with the curtain having risen in late March. Tickets are flying out, with the marriagebased plot on stage almost every evening until June 24.

Sumo Run Ireland

Marlay Park’s Sumo Run is a knowingly ridiculous event that will see thousands of fat-suit-wearing fools charge spend their Sunday afternoon bouncing across 5km of the park in aid of Purple House Cancer Support. April 23.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Mark Haddon’s fantastic novel - a strange investigative plot narrated by a gifted and probably autistic child - briefly comes to an Irish stage. April 25 to 29, Grand Canal Theatre.

New album of the week: Maximo Park - Risk To Exist.

Northern English rockers who rose with the Arctic Monkeys return with their sixth album, a blunt assault on the state of the world todayasdfasdfasddf

Maximo Park - Risk to Exist

20 April 2017 GAZETTE 17

BARE  JAMES HENDICOTT

MUSIC festivals, it’s fair to say, are on something of a relentless rise. Combining a weekend of hedonism with the opportunity to see musicians that would cost far more to see individually, the events present a risky but potentially rewarding opportunity for businessmen.

With the country’s biggest festival Electric Picnic selling out before even announcing a lineup this year, newcomers have been consistently sticking their head above the parapet – alongside BARE, festivals like Live On Air and BD Festival are nudging into the scene. BARE in the Woods, a growing event in Garryhinch Woods, Portarlington, is perhaps the most successful newcomer.

“We launched in 2014 with a single day ‘taster’”, organiser Peter Dunne told us. “It was really just getting people to buy into the concept, but it was also great experience for us. It’s been a slow burner, but I worked a lot on the other side of things, as a band manager, and so I understand what it’s like. It’s a slow process building trust with the acts [it’s worth noting that a couple of new Irish festivals have shut down in recent years, often without paying the performers], we just make sure we send them home happy. Now we have a lot of acts emailing us asking if they can come back again.”

“For me, it’s like seeing the festival experience from the other side of the fence. There’s a lot of correspondence, and you really have to pull together,” he says of the process. “I’ve learnt a few tricks, and we’ve brought a lot of experienced heads into our top team. We’ve been using a system called Mobstar [a musical talent platform], which has made it far easier to pick acts we’re interested in for the festival.”

BARE In The Woods’ line up is notably different to much of what’s going on in Ireland over the summer: some of the acts come straight out of leftfield (like sharp, political deep-thinking rapper and spoken word artist Akala, or former frontman with The Streets Mike Skinner), while others - like Canadian pop starlet Kiesza - are playing playing rare Irish dates.

MUSIC

IN THE WOODS:

Festival

Building a

From Scratch

Dunne thinks it’s important to keep the festival diverse, and books accordingly. “We tried to go for non-everyday acts,” he explains. “We’re up against a lot of big players when it comes to booking, and we’re doing the same with the site. We’re going to have access to the woods, which means the festival will spill into them, and punters can explore the woods as well as the music. Then we’ll be adding in other elements, the things that keep people coming back.”

“This year, that means bringing in things like a tech element. We’ll have a gaming area, for example. It’ll be family friendly. There’s also going to be American wrestlers, lots of different art forms, an artisan food village, and lots of comedy. We’ve made a real effort with the spoken word stuff, too.”

The progression over recent years - from one day festival featuring almost exclusively local Irish acts to three day bonanza layered with international diversity - is a promising sign.

And once it’s all done? There’s only one way Peter can unwind. “I think I’ll have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder for about a month, so I’ll be taking some time off” he tells us, “but then I’ll be heading off to a few festivals around Europe as a punter, and to see what they’re up to.” Of course he will.

BARE In The Woods takes place in Portarlington, county Laois on June 9, 10 and 11. The line up features Kiesza, House Of Pain, Right Said Fred, Mike Skinner, Helmet, Rubberbandits and Ham Sandwich.

GAZETTE

GAZETTE

16 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

House of Pain

Akala

BARE in the Woods organiser, Peter Dunne

The Rubber Bandits

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

DUBLINLIFE

STYLE  EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

I’M A big believer in the summer mantra: “You can never have enough pairs of sunglasses”.

From getting sat on to left behind or even being misplaced, High Street sunglasses are a godsend for the person on a budget.

While it would be nice to splash out on an expensive designer pair, chances are that many of us don’t quite have €200plus for sunnies.

We need to know more about the workers who

Style Editor

DO YOU know where your clothes come from?

Well, it’s time to start asking questions.

Fashion Revolution Week is coming to Dublin and organisers are urging fashion lovers to understand the true cost of the industry.

Now a global movement, a week-long series of events runs from April 24 to 30, including film screenings, pop-up shops, vintage clothing walking tours, street art exhibitions, clothing swaps, podcasts and more, all to inspire action to solve the problems the fashion industry is causing.

The week’s arrival in Ireland coincides with the anniversary of the Rana Plaza garment factory collapse in Bangladesh, which killed 1,138 people and injured 2,000 others in April, 2013.

In Bangladesh, garment workers earn just €49.56 per month, which is less than is calculated

as the basic living wage there. With almost 80% of the workforce in this industry being young women and living in poverty, it’s time for change.

To raise awareness and start a conversation, organisers around the country are calling on fashion lovers to join fellow organisations across the world in asking leading fashion brands #whomademyclothes across social media.

Events in Dublin include the #whomademyclothes designer show and tell at the Fumbally Exchange on April 24, and a Haulternative Walking Tour with Amelia Eclectique of La Femme Eclectique and Om Diva.

A mending workshop with Liadain Aiken Knitwear is also set to take place, along with a screening of TanaBana at the Fumbally Exchange.

For further information and events details, see Fashion Revolution Week’s Facebook page.

k

spectacle-ular €9

 EMMA NOLAN

L Look

Time to ask – and care – about who made your clothes, says new campaign

New

literally make such great clothes. Picture: Alex Sheridan

Besides, with such a great, affordable selection of glasses available, who cares?

You’ll probably just end up sitting on them anyway…

Here’re a few affordable and super-stylish options available in Dublin right now.

You can even treat yourself to two or three pairs if you feel like it (thanks, Penneys)!

And always remember to bring backup pairs on holidays or to festivals where your sunnies will inevitably end up lost or broken.

Ultimately, if you go ahead and wear any of these beauties below, I promise you’ll...

Topshop €25

Next €12

River Island €17

Next €12

3 eys € Penn

Penneys €3

ce Ac

ss

ze ori

€16

ize

Acc

or ess

€16

M50MOTORING The Dublin Gazette drives you through the motoring world on a tour of the latest models, technology & industry news

Windsor Motor Group expands to Long Mile Road IRELAND’S largest retail motor group, the Windsor Motor Group, is expanding and creating 20 new jobs with the opening of its fifteenth dealership nationwide. The new jobs in sales, service and repair were announced with the opening of the new Windsor Long Mile Nissan dealership in Dublin.

Windsor Motor Group, which has an annual turnover of €200 million, now employs over 300 people at its dealerships in Dublin, Wicklow, Meath and Galway. The motor group represents Nissan, Opel, Peugeot and Mazda and sells over 9,000 new and used vehicles in addition to servicing and repairing 25,000 vehicles a year, making it the market leading brand.

The company has also announced the appointment of Peter Nicholson as its new managing director.

Peter Nicholson joined Windsor Motor Group in 1992 and has previously held roles as group finance and



GAZETTE

20 April 2017 GAZETTE 19

Renault-Nissan welcomes EV competition RENAULT-NISSAN, the pioneer of electric cars, claims that mainstream acceptance of electric vehicles (EV’s) is reaching a tipping point as electric car get more range from a full charge. Renault-Nissan has welcomed increasing competition from rivals such as Volkswagen and Opel enter into the market.

Renault’s original target of selling 1.5 million zero-emissions vehicles by 2016 will

not be met, and the company claims that it will take an additional four or five years for sales to get to that level. Last year, the group reported global EV sales of 94,265.

Opel will soon be launching the AmperaE hatchback with claims of a 500km range, beating the 400km top range of Renault’s and Europe’s top-selling EV, the Zoe. The Volkswagen Group plans to bring purposebuilt EVs to market, including the new

Golf-e. In a few years, Volkswagen, Skoda and Seat will be introducing volume EVs underpinned by the company’s dedicated MEB modular architecture for electric vehicles.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance sees the light-commercial vehicle market was a natural fit for EVs. Renault will launch a Kangoo Z.E van, followed by the Master Z.E. heavy van toward the end of the year.

Trio winners of Irish Van of the Year 2017

insurance director and dealer principal at Windsor Airside Nissan.

“The new Windsor Long Mile Nissan dealership is a key part of our strategic plan to expand nationwide and to lead the way in delivering a modern motor sales and aftersales customer focused experience,” said Peter Nicholson, managing director of Windsor Motor Group.

“Our state-of-the-art showrooms put technology at the heart of the retail experience, presenting a modern, spacious, open and friendly environment where customers are better informed and empowered to make the right vehicle choice,” he added.

Newly-appointed managing director of Windsor Motor Group, Peter Nicholson (right) pictured with company brand ambassador and Leinster and Irish rugby player Jack McGrath

THE new-generation Citroen Dispatch, Peugeot Expert and Toyota Proace have been crowned Irish Van of the Year 2017. The award was voted upon by a jury of Ireland’s most experienced van journalists, in association with Continental Tyres.

This range of vans build by the PSA Citroen Peugeot Group in France is a complete re-design from the previous models, with new comfort levels, more flexible options than ever before. All feature more fuel efficient diesel engines matched to new gearboxes.

Launched last year, these new vans are among the first vehicles of its type to offer hands-free sliding side doors and a head-up display, as well as numerous other technologies that make working lives easier and safer. The new vans exude a robust and attractive character. Carrying loads from 1000kg up to 1400kg, it is pre-

The Citroën Dispatch / Peugeot Expert / Toyota Proace Van, a joint collaboration of the three companies has been voted Irish Van of the Year 2017 in association with Continental Tyres. Pictured at the presentation of the award were (l to r): Ian Corbett, Toyota Ireland, Chris Graham, Citroen Ireland, Des Cannon, Peugeot Ireland and Tom Dennigan of awards sponsor Continental Tyres.

sented with a reduced height of 1.90m, in three lengths and in a range of trim levels. Built on the PSA Group’s new modular EMP2 platform, it is powered by the highly efficient 1.6 95bhp / 115bhp and 2.0 BlueHDi 120bhp Euro6 diesel engines. Available in panel van and special order crew cab or platform cab variants, it has the highest safety level in its category, achieving a five-star rating in Euro NCAP tests.

Want to reach an audience in excess of 300,000 people in Dublin each week?

To advertise in our new Motoring section, contact sales@dublingazette.com or call

01 601 0240

GAZETTE

20 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

M50MOTORING

Amour for Amarok THE MARKET for 4x4 pick-ups has become a fashionable one, as the wide range of accessories for these otherwise functional machines, adds a deal of spice to their appearance. For those who make the 4x4 pickup choice for reasons of business or image, the engine performance is one of the key features.

What’s the point of looking muscular if there’s little pace and stamina to back it up?

Volkswagen has set the bar higher in power terms in the 4x4 pick-up market with the launch last year of the Amarok V6 version. In one fell swoop Volkswagen has leap frogged the competition by using an engine version that had been proven in the large Touareg SUV. Pick-up drivers were a little apprehensive about the power claims of the previous Amarok. Getting 180bhp from a 2.0litre turbo-diesel engine seemed to be at the heart of their concerns. That’s no longer an issue with the big 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel version that pumps out 204bhp and is now the sole six-cylinder engine option in the 4x4 pick-up market.

The extra power is smooth in terms of delivery and adds more muscle where it’s needed. This new Amarok has faster acceleration, more towing power and a higher payload capacity than the previous model. That means that this new V6 Amarok is now ready to challenge the market leaders, Ford’s Ranger and Toyota Hilux.

Out on the road the V6 engine power and 550Nm of torque is palpable as its flows through the eight speed automatic gearbox.

Manual gearboxes will be the exception in the new Amarok as Volkswagen

FASTNews New breakdown service ‘easyAssist’ is launched THE company behind, easytrip, Ireland’s only electronic parking and tolling tag provider, has launched a new breakdown assistance service in Ireland called easyAssist.

The new breakdown recovery and assistance service is available from €3.99 per month.

Recent easytrip research revealed that three out of five motorists don’t have breakdown cover for their vehicle and often rely on their vehicle insurance policy to cover

The new and more powerful Volkswagen Amarok 4x4 pickup has bigger engine and some fresh external and internal styling. This is a big machine with a powerful performance and an entry price for the 204bhp version of €47,670 incl. VAT.

it. They claim that as motor insurance premiums have increased by over 70% since 2013,

Volkswagen Amarok 3.0 SPECIFICATIONS

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

will claim that this more powerful engine will deliver at its best through the automatic gearbox.

The Amarok comes with a fuel economy rating of 14.3km/litre

3.0 litre 204hp 11.7 seconds 14.3km/litre (7.8l/100km or 36mpg) 80 litres 203g/km Commercial €333 20,000km/12 months 4 stars 2010 3500kgs 3 years (200,000km) €47,670 £32,493

(7.8l/100km or 36mpg), which is marginally better than the previous smaller engine version. My test result was about 10% lower and that alone was an impressive real world

Modern day 4x4 pick-ups have become fashionable due to the range of smart styling accessories, but as Michael Moroney found out, it’s really raw power that drivers are looking for when it comes to their choice of real on and off-the-road 4x4 status. driving margin difference.

In the 4x4 pick-up market I pitched the fuel economy performance of the new V6 Amarok against equivalent 4x4 pick-up vehicles at the top end of the power game.

While the Amarok is an improvement it’s still significantly less powerful than the Nissan Navara.

The smooth flow of engine power is noticeable and the strength behind the acceleration is clear. Volkswagen did not provide a towbar on the Amarok, so that towing test with a claim of 3.5 tonnes with a braked trailer, was not put to the test.

That towing rating puts the new Amarok at the top of the class along with the new Nissan Navara.

I was very impressed with the Amarok V6 in terms of power; it was comfortable on the highways where its rear leaf springs were not too noticeable. On smaller rural roads the ride was less comfortable and the bump more noticeable and here is the place to ease off on the pedal power.

The Amarok is wider than the competition and it feels so on those smaller rural roads. It is shorter however and its load area is not the longest, if load carrying ability is high on your agenda. The ground clearance is also lower than the competition while if you are brave enough to face a water crossing, there is a 500mm

wading depth ability.

The Amarok comes with some options around the 4x4 system. You can choose from a selectable (with manual gearbox) and permanent (with auto) 4MOTION fourwheel drive. An optional mechanical rear-axle differential lock is also available for demanding offroad use.

Entry prices for this engine grade start at €47,670, which means that the Amarok is one of the more expensive 4x4 pickups on the market. Can that premium be justified?

The sales figures don’t seem to indicate so, as Amarok shares joint fifth place in the market for the first three months of 2017 with the Isuzu D-Max.

many insurers have also reduced benefits on motor policies, with some not covering breakdown assistance at all.

The company has joined with nationwide breakdown assistance and recovery specialists, easyAssist to offer motorists with cars and small vans, assistance from trained professionals who claim to resolve 80% of breakdowns on the spot.

The easyAssist service from easytrip provides customers with assistance on all major breakdown scenarios nationwide including: battery charge; punctures; refuelling; wheel change; home start assist; and continuation of journey.

Colin Delaney, CEO of easytrip Ireland

20 April 2017 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

22 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

M50MOTORING

Pricing for new A5 cabriolet announced AHEAD of its launch later this month, Audi Ireland has announced pricing and specification details of the new Audi A5 Cabriolet, which completes the new generation of the A5 family.

The new model claims to be sportier, with an elegant design with a larger interior and more comfort and convenience, including a fully automatic acoustic hood as standard. The car comes with the latest Audi technology, including seat belt microphones, up to thirty different driver assistance systems and Audi virtual cockpit.

With room for four people and a fully automatic soft-top, the redesigned model is kitted out with the latest technology. The entry prices start at €60,730, before delivery charges.

The body of the new Audi A5 Cabriolet is claimed to be the strongest in its class and yet is among the lightest in the segment. Thanks to a smart mix of materials and lightweight design, compared to its predecessor model,

engineers have increased the car’s torsional rigidity by another 40% and reduced its weight by up to 40 kilograms.

Safety

The new one-touch opening function makes operating the standard acoustic hood much easier: the top fully opens in 15 seconds and closes in 18 seconds, even while driving up to 50 km/h. The Cabriolet’s additional body struts and reinforced sills make up for the absence of a fixed roof. In the event of a crash and/or rollover, head and torso airbags and automatically extending aluminium profiles ensure the occupants’ safety.

The new Audi A5 Cabriolet will be offered with a choice of three engines, a petrol 2.0 TFSI with 252bhp, and two diesels, a 2.0 TDI with 190bhp and a 3.0 TDI with 218bhp, each of which offers up to 17% more power while consuming as much as 22% less The Audi A5 Cabriolet is characterised by sleek lines and a flatter, sportier look, including a wider three-dimensional Single frame grille and wave-shaped shoulder line fuel compared with its predecessor.

High-powered Skoda Octavia RS to hit Dublin market in May SKODA has revealed details of the new high powered Octavia RS version, including the new pricing of €34,450 when the car hits the Dublin market in May of this year.

Skoda claims that the new Octavia RS maintains a balance of space and functionality coupled with power and performance.

The will be available as either a hatchback or estate combi version.

The Octavia RS in particular enjoys something of a cult following in Ireland, accounting for almost 10% of Octavia sales. This new third generation Octavia RS comes with a new front grille. New LED headlights replace the Xenon lights and LED technology also powers the rear tail lights.

Compared to the standard Octavia, the RS squats 15mm lower and can be fitted with wheels of up to 19 inches in diameter.

The rear wheels track has been increased by 30mm,

compared to the previous version, for improved road holding and cornering ability. The interior has also been refreshed with new seating and instrument cluster.

The Octavia RS will be powered by the familiar 2.0 TDI, 184bhp diesel engine that consumes just 4.5 litres of fuel per 100km on the combined cycle. This version can be mated to a 6-speed manual or DSG transmission, while a DSG

4x4 version is also available.

The new Octavia RS enjoys upgraded infotainment systems. The Columbus is the best system available in the Skoda range and boasts a 9.2 inch colour touch screen.

Compared to the previous Octavia the biggest advancements are in the area of connectivity. The Octavia RS model comes as standard with Infotainment online allowing

the driver to access news, weather and parking data.

Care connect is available as an option for the first time in the Octavia and provides emergency call function and remote access to your vehicle via the drivers smart phone.

Through the drivers smartphone they can view their vehicle on a map and also activate the vehicles honk and flash function in order to locate the car in a busy car park for example.

Compared to the previous Skoda Octavia RS models, the biggest advancements in the new 2017 model are in the area of connectivity

24 FINGAL GAZETTE 20 April 2017

DUBLINLIFE Marvel at the sights, sounds and tastes of a Spanish city

MADRID: VISIT REGAL PALACES, TEMPTING FOOD MARKETS, TOP-NOTCH

Get sun (or shade) at the Parque de la Arganzuela  JESSICA MAILE

ONE of the best places to enjoy the sun in Madrid is the Parque de la Arganzuela. It is an oasis just 1.5 kilometres from the Puerta del Sol in the centre of Madrid.

 EMMA NOLAN

The park offers, water fountains to relax by, plenty of trees to provide shade should it get too hot, playgrounds and three main water features for the little folk (and you) to splash and play in.

Along one tree-lined path there are tables with checker boards painted on them if you fancy a game while having a little picnic. There are also rowing lanes on the river, bicycle paths, cafes and restaurants and an urban beach is close by, near the old slaughterhouse (Madrid Matadero). So there is definitely something for everyone to enjoy.

The park also features the Arganzuela Footbridge which was designed to link the neighborhoods on the right and left banks of the Manzanares River. It is for both pedestrians and cyclists and provides direct access to the park below.

PICTURE this – Madrid, late November, Sunday night. A cocktail bar with mirrored shelves bursting with bottles of every kind of gin imaginable.

Marble and mahogany, a large decorative mantle piece; the place is Bar Cock just off Madrid’s Gran Via. The pouring rain is keeping most of the Madridlenos inside.

But a bit of rain isn’t enough to keep this Dubliner inside on her first ever night in the Spanish capital.

Having spent the evening sampling tapas from a number of places in the

Chueca district, guided by a proud local, I’m not ready to go to bed yet.

“Jamon Iberico is the most superior of all meats,” our guide tells us as the first of many plates of the famed cured ham is presented to us earlier in the evening.

A staple for most Castilians, Iberian ham is defined by its rich, earthy taste and must come from black Iberian pigs. The finest jamon comes from free range Iberian pigs who feed on acorns, we’re told.

Next stop is Taberna Angel Sierra (pictured below) for a vermouth and a plate of fresh anchovies and olives. It doesn’t get any more Spanish than

this.

The Chueca district is known as Madrid’s “gayest barrio” and it is lively with a sense of fun about the place.

Many of the bars here stay open late along with a selection of great nightclubs.

The centre of this barrio is Plaza de Chueca, a popular meeting spot for locals. Another popular place here is the Mercardo de San Anton – a space with an art gallery and a bar with a terrace, but it also still has meat and fish stalls that are very typical of Madrid’s many mercardos.

Eat like a local

Many of Madrid’s mar-

 TOPTIP

If you’re taking a day trip outside Madrid, stop by La Rozas Village, the Spanish equivalent to Kildare Village, for some shopping. Brands like Bimba Y Lola, Desigual and Sandro all offer discounted prices on last season’s stock.

Taberna Angel Sierra in the Chueca The Royal Palace of Aranjuez

District

kets include bars and food stalls serving everything from tapas, to Mexican and Asian cuisines, with enthusiastic vendors offering samples and tastes.

Fresh produce can be purchased too and there is always an impressive display of fresh seafood, which earns Madrid the title of the Spanish city that consumes the most fish, despite not being on the coast.

There’s also the historic Mercado de San Miguel, just off the Plaza Mayor which is a little more upmarket. More traditional ones include Mercado de Anton Martin in the Huertas district and Mercado de la Paz in the posh Salamanca neighbourhood.

All worth a visit to soak up the busy atmosphere and eat like a local.

A special mention has to go Platea. We had the most exquisite lunch here. A former cinema in the Plaza Colon, Platea was transformed into a huge market complete with restaurants and bars and reopened in 2014.

The space is spectacular – it retains the shape of the old theatre along with the stage (pictured) which regularly features live

music, performances and cooking demonstrations.

Arriba restaurant is located on the balcony with the best views of the stage and the food is by Michelin star chef Ramón Freixa. Freixa himself describes his Platea restaurant as a “concept where tradition and vanguard are combined”.

We enjoyed traditional cod fritters and croquettes served with a deconstruct-

20 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

TRAVEL ART MUSEUMS, STUNNING ARCHITECTURE AND AMAZING RESTAURANTS, TO START.....

Platea – the former cinema transformed into a spectacular food market and (inset) dinner at Atico

‘One of the best things about a trip to Madrid is how accessible it is for visiting surrounding areas – Toledo, El Escorial, Avila, Cuenca and Segovia are all just a short distance away’

The iconic Metropolis as seen from the Calle de Alcala

ed patatas bravas to start.

For mains we had Tataki butterfish and a simple but delicious chicken and mustard dish. Platea is a must visit on any trip to Madrid.

Explore

We stayed in the Hotel Catalonia on Gran Via. Superbly located and reasonably priced, (€135 for a one night stay for two in May) this hotel is

a great base for exploring the city, with many great sights, bars, restaurants and shops within walking distance. (And it has a rooftop pool!)

Just down the road from the famous Metropolis building, on Calle de Alcala, you’ll find yourself constantly looking up at the impressive art deco architecture.

“Barcelona can have their Gaudi,” our guide

tells us. “In Madrid, we have Barroco Madrileno.”

It’s true that the city is incredibly stylish and monumental with broad boulevards lined by ornate structures and gardens.

One such example is the stunning El Buen Retiro Park – an expansive 19th century park in the centre of the city with a huge lake, impeccable lawns, and cryprus tree-lined walkways. Not to mention

the marble fountains and statues.

Even though we visited in November it was still beautiful; but it doesn’t compare to summer time when it is a hive of activity.

Within the park is another great restaurant, Florida Retiro. Located inside the park, it is a bright an airy space that felt summery even on a dull November day. We were told that there is an abundance of outdoor seating during warmer months.

Serving elegant Mediterranean cuisine and an interesting selection of tapas, Florida Retiro is a great place to enjoy a glass of wine and take in the atmosphere of the glorious park that was once reserved for royalty.

Speaking of beautiful things, Madrid is famous for having some of the best

museums in Europe. The Prado, the Reina Sofía, the Thyssen – the place is an art lover’s paradise.

The Museo ThyssenBornemisza has one of the largest private art collections in the world, with a vast array of different styles and eras.

Works of many big names artists are on display in the Thyssen from Caravaggio to Van Gogh.

There’s a single Rembrandt and Monet and Renoir are also on display. Picasso and Salvador Dali are also featured with some other notable pieces from Hopper and Munch.

A must visit for any trip to Madrid, whether you’re an art lover or not, the space is impressive. A perfect way to spend an afternoon in the Spanish capital.

Dinner that night was

at Atico, another of chef Ramon Frexia’s endeavours. Situated atop the Principal Hotel, the iconic location offers direct views of the Metropolis building.

For dinner we enjoyed a refined version of huevos rotos, or Spanish broken eggs while the main course featured the most delicate piece of salmon I’ve ever tasted. Nearby is an array of cocktail bars that stay open late – try the gin bar in the basement of Mercado de la Reina (the Madrileños know their gin).

One of the best things about a trip to Madrid is how accessible it is for visiting surrounding areas – Toledo, El Escorial, Avila, Cuenca and Segovia are all just a short distance away.

A must visit, however, is Aranjuez. Aranjuez is the capital of the Las Vegas district just south of Madrid.

Known for its Royal Palace (pictured bottom left), the Palacio Real de Aranjuez is a residence of the King of Spain and a designated a World Heritage Cultural Landscape.

A guided tour of the palace reveals the decadent interior which was designed during the 18th century with a considerable collection of paintings, statues, furniture, mirrors

and chandeliers.

The Porcelain Room and the Morroccan rooms were highlights and absolutely breathtaking.

Make sure to visit the royal gardens too and take the road train around the beautiful monuments.

Aranjuez is an excellent day trip from Madrid and well worth it but if you decide to stay for a night or two, the NH Collection Aranjuez is an ideal spot, located just a stone’s throw from the palace.

If you do plan to spend a night in the area, take a quick taxi to Real Cortijo de Carlos III – a beautiful winery with a long underground cellar. Here enthusiastic guides will explain their wine making process with a tasting afterwards.

Generally speaking, when Irish people go to Spain, we go in search of beaches, but Madrid and the surrounding region have so much to offer all year round.

Its inhabitants are proud of their captivating city, and rightly so.

FLIGHTS Ryanair fly direct from Dublin for about €28 to €40 midweek. Weekend flights are usually from around €30 to €50.

26 FINGAL GAZETTE 20 April 2017

FINGALCLASSIFIEDS ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

PHOTOGRAPHY

WINDOWS

ROOFING

DVDS

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

GOT A STORY? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240

PAINTING

GOT A PHOTO? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 2 or email news@dublingazette.com



20 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 27

FINGALCLASSIFIEDS RECRUITMENT

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING TELE-SALES FREELANCE TELE-SALES PERSON REQUIRED For more information or to apply please email Emer at: ewilson@dublingazette.com

GAZETTE

28 FINGAL GAZETTE 20 April 2017

SPORT

FastSport DCU, KUBS AND CELTICS ALL IN IRISH U-16 TEAM: DCU Mercy’s Bronagh Power Cassidy, Maeve O’Seaghdha and Rachel Hijsdens, KUBS’ Ella McCloskey and Courtyard Liffey Celtics’ Sorcha Tiernan have all been included in the Irish Under-18 women’s baskeball team announced by Head Coach, Tommy O’Mahony.

The team has been selected ahead of this year’s FIBA Under-18 women’s European Championship, Division B, which will be hosted in Dublin this August.

The championships will run from August 4 to 13 and will be held in two venues – the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght and the National Indoor Arena, Abbotstown.

Speaking about the news, Coach O’Mahony stated: “It was a very difficult decision to select 12 players to go forward for the team as there is such a depth of young talent here in the country. We have been working hard at training and are really looking forward to the months ahead.”

RUGBY: DUBLIN CLUBS LOOK FORWARD TO PLAYOFFS WITH BIG BOOST ON BOARD

Lansdowne and Clontarf’s semi-final home comforts

sport@dublingazette.com

TABLE toppers Lansdowne and defending champions Clontarf will have home advantage in the Ulster Bank League Division 1A semi-finals after a tumultuous final day in the Ulster Bank League.

Next Sunday’s semi-final clashes will pit Lansdowne against fourth-placed Cork Constitution and Clontarf will host third-ranked Young Munster at Castle Avenue.

Lansdowne finished top of the pile on scoring difference following their 40-17 bonus point dismissal of Garryowen whose top-flight survival rests on the upcoming promotion/ relegation play-offs which include three Division 1B clubs.

The headquarters club were winless in the last four rounds but with Scott Deasy back at out-half, they led from the second minute onwards thanks to flanker Charlie Butterworth’s early try on the Aviva Stadium’s back pitch.

Current Ireland Under-20 hooker Tadgh McElroy also touched down as the hosts built a 28-3 lead.

Tries from Ireland Students

Clontarf will face Young Munster at Castle Avenue in their UBL Division 1A semi-final. Picture: Deryck Vincent

international Bailey Faloon and Steven McMahon lifted the Light Blues’ spirits - their second-from-bottom finish means they will host Old Wesley in a play-off semi-final next Sunday.

Lansdowne made sure they had the final say with two closing tries from back-three regulars Daniel McEvoy - the division’s top try scorer with 11 touchdowns - and Eamonn Mills.

Former Ireland Under-20

international Conor O’Brien, who recently returned from injury, bagged two tries in Clontarf’s action-packed 37-28 bonus point win over UCD on their 4G pitch.

The north Dubliners were 21-15 down at half-time, with Josh Murphy, Ciaran Frawley and Andy Marks notching tries for the students who were brimming with confidence after last week’s Colours success.

Tarf got on top in the third

quarter, moving ahead thanks to converted tries from centre O’Brien and out-half David Joyce who also kicked 12 points.

A deserved try for workhorse number 8 Michael Noone, coupled with a Joyce penalty, made it 27 points without reply, before UCD’s Leinster-capped prop Andrew Porter had a late consolation score.

Down at Temple Hill, there were tries aplenty too as Cork Constitution got the better of

St. Mary’s College on a 34-27 scoreline. Backs Ned Hodson and Michael Clune bagged braces for the victors.

Dublin University clawed clear of the relegation zone with a stunning last-minute try from Tim Maupin which saw them overcome Terenure College 27-25 at College Park.

The students, who were bidding to stay up at the end of their first season in Division 1A, won possession back in the final seconds thanks to a big tackle by number 8 Tom Ryan.

The Trinity backs then countered at pace from their own 22, with Colm Hogan and Michael Courtney to the fore, and they put USA international Maupin into space out wide for the game’s decisive score which was coolly converted by U-20 out-half James Fennelly.

Trinity director of rugby Tony Smeeth, whose young side finished sixth in the table, beamed afterwards: “It was just unbelievable.

“I can’t describe it really. I didn’t think we were going to win. That was the try of the year, that last one. You won’t see many tries better than that in College Park.”

Railway trio set for Japan leg of World Sevens series  sport@dublingazette.com

Railway Union sisters Kim and Stacey Flood

R AILWAY Union trio Kim Flood, Stacey Flood and AmeeLeigh Murphy-Crowe are among a quartet of Dubliners – along with Clondalkin woman Hannah Tyrrell – who were named in Anthony Eddy’s HSBC World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series squad to play in Kitakyushu 7s next weekend.

It follows their eighth place at the Las Vegas 7s, the second successive tournament in a row that the side to made the quarterFinals.

The new additions to the squad for Kitakyushu are Kim Flood, Louise Galvin, Katie Heffernan and Emma Murphy.

19-year-old Heffernan could be set to make her World Series debut, having won her first senior 7s cap last summer at the Rugby Europe Grand Prix in Malemort.

Ireland will face Fiji in their opening game of Pool B, before meeting Australia and then will finish Day 1 against Brazil.

All three teams will be familiar to one another, having all been drawn into the same pool at the Sydney 7s, where Ireland defeat-

ed both Fiji and Brazil on Day 1.

The Japan leg of the World Series will see Ireland and the Fijians meet for the fourth successive tournament this season – the sides drew in Dubai, Ireland claimed the win in Sydney and Fiji evened the scores as they were victorious in Las Vegas.

Commenting on the squad announcement, Eddy said: “We have an experienced side travelling to Japan next week for the fourth stage of the World Sevens Series.

“We have managed to make the quarter finals in the last two

tournaments, so that will be a target for us again in Japan. Hopefully we can have a productive Day 2 and achieve some really good results.

“The players have worked extremely hard and have shown good improvement all year, so I am sure they are looking forward to the Japan tournament to build on their performances.

“It will be a challenge however, as we face the ever-improving Brazil, Fiji, who we are very familiar with having met them regularly throughout the series and Australia,”

20 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Harte at the heart of Wesley promotion bid

Donnybrook side claim last Ulster Bank League Division 1A promotion playoff place with narrow win over UCC in home turf, earning their fourth during the 1B regular campaign UBL DIVISION 1B

Dubliners abound in basketball All-Stars DUBLINERS abounded in the Basketball Ireland’s National League All Stars named this week with the Player of the Year for each division and five stars named for each division.

The All Stars were selected from the votes of the National League coaches who voted for the players every month from the start of the season until the end of March.

In the men’s Super League, Garvey’s Tralee Warriors’ star guard, Trae Pemberton scooped his first All Star here in Ireland, but has also secured the title of Player of the Year after a superb season with the Kerry side.

The rest of the All-Star side, though, hail from Dublin clubs as Pyrobel Killester’s Jermaine Turner and Templeogue’s Mike Bonaparte have picked up their second successive All-Stars.

They are joined by new recipients Jose Maria Gil Narbon of Griffith Swords Thunder and Templeogue’s Lorcan Murphy.

The top three clubs in this year’s Women’s Super League meanwhile have All-Star recipients on their rosters, with Ambassador UCC Glanmire’s Claire Rockall picking up her third successive All-Star and also winning the Women’s Super League title of Player of the Year 2016/17 after a phenomenal season with the Cork side.

Jazmen Boone of Courtyard Liffey Celtics meanwhile has bagged her second consecutive All-Star, while Glanmire’s Grainne Dwyer, Emma O’Connor of Liffey Celtics and Sarah Fairbanks of DCU Mercy make up the remaining spots.

In the Women’s Division One, Meagan Hoffman of Oblate Dynamos received the prestigious award as one of this league’s All-Stars.

“We’re delighted to honour the very best of our leagues for the 2016-17 season,” said Women’s National League Commissioner Matthew Hall. “The All Stars were brought back in 2015 and have proven to be very popular since then.

This year’s awards recognise the best and most consistent players in Ireland.”

Old Wesley 19 UCC 5  sport@dublingazette.com

EAGER to put a disappointing away loss to Dolphin, Old Wesley got the win they needed last weekend at Donnybrook against UCC to get into the promotion playoffs for the Ulster Bank League Division 1A. They were out of the blocks early in this final AIL fixture played in perfect conditions at Donnybrook. A huge tackle

by Paul Harte, forcing a knock on, was an early indication of Wesley’s intent and ambition.

For the first 15 minutes, play was confined to the UCC half of the pitch but Wesley only had a Tim Clifford penalty goal to their name.

Once the Cork side did get into the Wesley half,

their mobile back line looked dangerous. It took a desperate corner flag tackle into touch by Rory Stynes to prevent UCC scoring the first try.

However, with 20 minutes gone, a break by centre Paul Kiernan, son of former international Michael Kiernan, found the Wesley defence thin and with two men outside him he ran in for the first try of the match.

The more physical Wesley pack responded and soon had the opposition having to dig deep in defence but, despite their territorial and possession advantage, they could not cross the whitewash.

With half time approaching, all they had on the scoreboard was a second Clifford penalty goal. Some good carries again tested the opposition defence in a late Wesley rally but it came to naught, leaving the

half time score 6-5 to Old Wesley.

Now playing into a breeze, Wesley had to score first in order to avoid any momentum build up by the Cork students. Sure enough, a break by Conor Maguire had UCC on the back foot and brought play back into the opposition half.

Then, it was quick recycled-ball taken on by David Rowley and a pass to Paul Harte.

Harte, still with a lot to do, switched on the after burners and sprinted 30 metres, beating a number of tackles to score Wesley’s first try.

The home side was now attacking and counterattacking with good effect, with substitutes Ger Finucane and Michael Dunleavy adding positive impact. Stynes, with his evasive style of running, found space out wide inside the UCC 22.

He passed to Harte who this time sprinted in untouched for his and Old Wesley’s second try.

The conversion came back off the post. Indeed, both team’s place-kickers had a poor day with the boot.

Wesley were now starting to turn the screw and spent most of the rest of the second half in opposition territory.

Despite having a number of scoring opportunities, including two five metre line outs and a five metre scrum, they were denied any more tries, partly due to solid UCC defence and partly due to some frustrating errors.

A yellow card for a high tackle by UCC second row Daragh Moloney

seemed to open the door for Old Wesley but their only return was another Clifford penalty goal.

However, now with a 14 point lead, the result was in no doubt and despite a late UCC counterattack and a five metre scrum the scoreboard remained unchanged.

Nevertheless a 19-5 win over a side that had been on a roll was no mean achievement. The win means Old Wesley finish a highly commendable fourth in the league and now play Garryowen on April 23 at Dooradoyle, in the play-off semi-final.

The winner of that match will play the winner of Naas v UL Bohemian for a place in next season’s premier division.

Wesley’s Conor Maguire makes incisive break into the UCC 22, left, lock,while Michael Dunleavy, right, muscles his way through. Picture: Ken Richardson

GAZETTE

30 FINGAL GAZETTE 20 April 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

Aer Lingus flying high with series of national medals NATHAN Turner (pictured), Aisling Haughey, Fiachra Bevan and Benjamin Doyle of the Aer Lingus Swim Club were all medallists at the 2017 Irish Open Swimming Championships held recently in the National Aquatic Centre.

Turner, a resident of Clonshaugh D17, became a national champion in the men’s 800m freestyle when he took gold away from Finn McGeever of Limerick Swim Club by just eight hundredths of a second in a thrilling race.

Haughey, a Malahide woman, was brilliant as always winning a silver medal in the women’s 200m breaststroke and a bronze medal in the women’s 100m breaststroke with a personal best despite juggling hospital work placement for school and swim training during the lead up to this competition.

Bevan swam very well producing personal best in all his races and winning his first senior medal at the nationals—a bronze medal in the men’s 1,500m freestyle.

Doyle, a resident of Skerries, whose training was cut short by illness also claimed a bronze medal when he swam a personal best in the men’s 100m fly.

Overall, the Aer Lingus club had many of their team make finals and produce best. Lara McEvoy from Portmarnock and Christine McFeely from Malahide were among the young swimmers who made the senior finals for the first time.

Aer Lingus head coach, Alan Turner said he was: “very happy with the performances of the swimmers as most of them stepped up and made their first senior finals,” adding: “there were a lot of personal bests”.

He explained that it is always hard to hit the heights in the big meets due to the pressure of the competition but, as the new Performance Director of Swim Ireland, Jon Rudd, has said that is when it matters most and many of these Aer Lingus swimmers have proven they can do it.

SOCCER: BIG THREE POINTS OVER EAST WALL LIFTS SWORDS SIDE

Rivervalley Rangers Premier A side look set to stay up in their first season in Premier A

Valley pull away from drop AUL PREMIER A Rivervalley Rangers East Wall/Bessborough  sport@dublingazette.com

3 1

RIVERVALLEY Rangers picked up a big 3-1 win over East Wall Bessborough on Tuesday evening to considerably strengthen their hopes of avoiding the drop in AUL Premier A. The Swords outfit off to the worse possible start, conceding within the first five minutes against the mid-table outfit. R iver valley regrouped and it didn’t take them long to draw level.

Paulie Ryan and Ro

Murtagh combined to play in Karl Young on the edge of the box.

He took one touch to get the ball out of his feet and dinked one over the stranded keeper.

Before half time, they were in front courtesy of a trademark Paul Currivan bullet header from a Young delivery.

The game was sealed with 20 to go when Neil Hainsworth set Murtagh through to finish with aplomb.

The result saw them rising up to seventh place in the table, above Baldoyle Grange United and seven points ahead of Real Transilvania

PARALYMPIC HERO Kelly receives special recognition award THE successes of Paralympian Ailbhe Kelly were celebrated recently at the Castleknock Hotel where she received a Special Recognition Award from her local GAA club, Castleknock. Kelly, currently a leaving certificate student, represented Ireland at the Paralympics in Rio last year. She will soon be making preparations for further major competitions in 2018.

Presenting the award Castleknock GAA Club, secretary Sean McLaughlin praised Kelly as an inspiration to her peers, sports people and her local community in Dublin 15.

with a couple of games in hand, meaning they are virtually assured of a place in the top tier of the AUL for another season.

The club’s Saturday Division One side had a good 2-1 win over Baldoyle at R idgewood, meanwhile, to move up to seventh place in the table.

The visitors started the brighter and caught Rivervalley on the back foot with a series of early attacks. Rangers, though, kept composed and went ahead from a free kick out on the right.

Neil Hainswor th

stepped up and curled a daisy cutter into the bottom left hand corner for 1-0.

Paul Gavin was fed the ball not long after and he beat the left fullback, cut into the box and laid off a great pass for Hainsworth to tuck away for his second of the game.

Baldoyle came at them from then and Conor Dowd pulled off a stunning reflex save to deny them a goal.

There was some superb stuff from Rivervalley during this half but Baldoyle bounced back in the second half which was a very dif-

ferent affair with the strong breeze having an impact.

It was backs to the wall for a while and Rivervalley defended as if their lives depended on it, breaking away on the counter when the chance presented itself.

Andrew Conway was brilliant at the back while Ross Hainsworth was outstanding at both midfield and centre half positions.

The result lifts them a b ove U s h e r C e l t i c with six games in hand though a late promotion push looks off limits at this stage in the campaign.

20 April 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

LADIES FOOTBALL: DUBS BLOW AWAY KILDARE IN FIRST HALF

CLUB NOTICEBOARD

FINGALLIANS THIS weekend, three football champion-

tops are due in this week and will be on

ships ties: seniors v Skerries on Friday at

sale from 10am on Saturday. Pictures

7pm in Garristown, junior A on Sunday v

will be on Twitter.

Round Tower, Clondalkin at 11am, home,

Dublin U21 Footballers: Congratula-

and, also the junior D v St Pats Palmers-

tions to the squad on their semi-final

town away at 3pm.

victory. The final v Galway will take place

Easter Camp: A very successful week was had by all. A big thank you to all you took part and organised the week.

Academy: The 4–7 year old kids will

Well done to Sarah Roche, Deirdre Lee and Emer O’Duill on completing the

ter at 9.45am in the club hall.

athletic course on Saturday at Tallaght

Place – Derek Rothwell; 4th Place – c/o John Williams; 5th Place – Killian Dunne.

LEINSTER MINOR FINAL Dublin 6-13 Kildare 2-12  sport@dublingazette.com

FINGALLIANS’ Dearbhla Snow and St Sylvesters’ Danielle Lawless were on target as Dublin minors retained the Leinster championship for the seventh successive year with a comprehensive victory over Kildare.

The midfield duo scored a point apiece and impressed in the engine room as a dominant Dublin side prevailed by 6-13 to 2-12 in Clane on Easter Monday.

The destination of the title was effectively settled by the break as Dublin went into the changing rooms with a 5-8 to 1-6 lead, with four of those goals coming between the 11th and 16th minutes.

Dublin showed just why they’ve dominated at agegrade level in recent years with a devastating attacking performance that left their neighbours scrambling for answers.

The Lilywhites had chances in the early stages but failed to make them

count. The Girls in Blue were ruthless, by contrast, as shown by the scoring blitz that effectively settled the tie.

The Dubs led by 0-3 to 0-2 after ten minutes, and a tightly-contested affair looked to be on the cards until Niamh Sheehan took the game by the scruff of the neck with a clinical forward display.

Ballinteer clubwoman Sheehan scored her first goal in the 11th minute and followed it up with her second two minutes later.

Clontarf’s Caoimhe O’Connor added a third goal for the Girls in Blue in the 14th minute before Sheehan completed a fiveminute hat trick to put the champions in firm control.

She added her fourth goal, and Dublin’s fifth, in the 27th minute to cap of a dazzling first-half display as her team took an unassailable 14-point lead into the break.

Dublin refused to take their foot off the gas in the second half and landed two quick points thanks to a fine solo effort from Loughlin and another

from O’Connor.

There was time for Naomh Olaf ’s Ciara O’Sullivan to add goal number six 15 minutes into the second half.

The substitute buried the rebound after Sheehan’s initial effort had been well saved by Lilywhites goalkeeper Emily McGrory.

Fingallians’ Dearbhla Snow and St Sylvesters’ Danielle Lawless were also impressive as they each notched 0-3 tallies.

Kildare belatedly struck back, with substitute and Irish soccer international

Lauren Kelly scoring 1-4 in the second half including a penalty for a technical foul in the small square.

The damage had been done in that blistering first half, however, and Dublin easily held to on to seal their ninth championship of the last ten and seventh in a row.

The Leinster champions will have time to reflect on a job well done with a date against the yetto-be-determined winners of the Connacht minor championship on either July 15 or 16.

Athletic Update: Training at Santry continues this Thursday, April 20 at 6pm.

New kids are welcome and should regis-

Walsh; 2nd Place - David McGowan,;3rd

Fins duo make mark in seven in a row win

be confirmed.

resume this Saturday from 10-11.30am.

1 Cent to €20 Draw: 1st Place – Simon

Dublin’s minor footballers celebrate their seventh Leinster title in a row. Pictures: Maurice Grehan/GAAPics.com

on Saturday, 29 April. Time and venue to

An Siopa: The club shop will re-open after the Easter break. New training

FINGAL RAVENS

Stadium.

Lotto: numbers were 12, 14, 26, 33 and 36.

We had two winners, Karen Doyle and Aidan Pollard who won €1,266 each.

Jackpot this Tuesday will be €2,224.

FINGAL Ravens member Luke

queries, please contact Elaine Casey

McCaffery is heading to Calcutta in

at ecasey@crokepark.ie.

November to work with children in

This is a busy championship week.

Fixtures: senior team on Thursday,

schools.

He has organised a fundraising pub

April 20 - Parnells V Fingal Ravens at

quiz on April 26 in Kettles Hotel at 8pm.

Balgriffin, 7pm; Sunday, April 23 - Jun-

Tables of four at €10 per person. Fin-

ior B: Fingal Ravens V Civil Service,

gal Ravens hope Luke gets lots of sup-

Rolestown, 11am; Junior D team: Fingal

port with this event.

Ravens v St Vincent’s, Rolestown, 3pm.

Croke Park are recruiting for voluntary stewards for match days.

If you are interested or have any

Wishing good luck to all the teams.

Please come along and support these important games.

ST FINIAN’S THE nursery (four and five year old boys

office Monday to Thursday from 7pm or

and girls) and academy (six-year-old

Saturday morning from 10am to 1pm by

boys and girls) sponsored by Sky Han-

cash or credit/debit card.

dling Partner will resume on Saturday

There are Boxercise classes taking

after the Easter Break at the usual times

place in the clubhouse activity room

of 10am and 11.30am respectively. New

every Monday evenings. For further

members are always welcome.

details, please contact Karen at 087 776

St Finians GAA Club is pleased to

5165.

announce that comedian Rory O’Connor,

The club lotto and bingo will resume

the man behind Rory’s Stories is coming

next Friday, upstairs in Peacocks at

to the Peacocks on Saturday, June 17.

8.30pm. The lotto jackpot now stands at

Tickets are €20 and will soon be avail-

€2,100. The bingo jackpot is €1,400.

able from team mentors; the club office

The coffee shop will reopen next Sat-

and on the club website www.stfinians.

urday morning after the Easter break

com.

from 10am to 1pm, all are welcome for a

Membership subscriptions for 2017

cuppa and a chat.

are now overdue. Payments can be

The club shop is open every Thursday

made directly online under the Club

from 7pm to 9.30pm and on Saturdays

Membership menu on the club website.

from 10am to 1pm. Check out the latest

Payments can also be made in the club

price list on the club website.



GOT A STORY? WE WANT TO KNOW!

Call our SPORT TEAM on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 3

or email sport@dublingazette.com

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR FINGAL SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

PREMIER SAFETY: Rivervalley Rangers land key win to put them almost in the clear in AUL’s top tier P30

APRIL 20-26, 2017

DUB DUOS HOME COMFORTS: Clontarf and Lansdowne pin down semi-final bonus P29

Fingallians celebrating their Dublin intermediate championship title last November

Fins’ huge Fingal derby Lawless Park club meet north county neighbours Skerries Harps in the Dublin senior football championship for the first time in over a decade

 JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

FINGALLIANS are all set for a tasty local tie with Skerries Harps as they return to the Dublin Senior Football Championship this Friday, following a confident Dublin intermediate title and run to the Leinster final in 2016.

Football boss at the Swords club Wayne Knight – who masterminded last year’s progression – admits there’s a buzz about the rare senior derby (the two sides haven’t clashed at this level in over a decade), but told GazetteSport that his side’s key goal remains a return to the senior leagues this

time around.

“It’s a good draw,” Knight admitted, “especially with the local element. “No doubt Skerries are looking at it and thinking they could have had a tougher match-up, too. I’m not expecting too much difference between the two teams.

“Our main focus is a return to senior level in the league, though,” Knight continued.

“It’s important to be playing at that level regularly. We’ve played a lot of league one and league two teams in challenge matches over the past year or so, so they’d have some idea what to expect from us.

“I don’t think they’d enjoy the prospect of playing us. But the main thing this year

is definitely getting senior football regularly.

Anything after that is a bonus.”

With Paul Flynn back from Dublin and training with Fingallians over the past week, the Swords club will also have their star man in action for the Harps game, but Knight is keen to emphasise the growth of the promisingly young current panel outside of the Dublin forward.

“Obviously last year’s given us confidence.

We’re a really young panel; the average age is about 22 or 23. So it looks really great for the next four of five years.

“It’s difficult to be too dependent on Paul [Flynn]; we have to be able to perform without him and the intermediate success last

time around really showed that we can. We were winning quite well in Dublin. If we can get past Skerries on Friday, that will give us a platform and who knows what could happen.

“You have to take something from Castleknock’s progress after their intermediate win over the last couple of years,” Knight concluded.

“We feel like we need to get up to seniors in the league and then we can try to replicate that. We have the young team to do it.”

Fingallians are well on track for a return to the second league tier and remain unbeaten so far this season. The championship derby with Skerries in Garristown gets underway at 7pm on Friday, April 21.