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‘Stop our homes being a target for thuggery’ Fed-up residents demand full-time security guard at local supermarket
SYLVIA POWNALL SWORDS residents are calling for full-time security at a local supermarket following a number of robberies on their doorstep. Householders in Ridge-
wood have gathered 130 signatures through an online petition and are set to present it to Tesco Ireland next week. They want the company “to provide a full-time security guard at the Tesco
Express” following a robbery at the store earlier this month. Residents say they feel “Tesco is providing an easy target for robbers to enter our estate”. One concerned Ridgewood resident told The
Gazette that anti-social behaviour was also a major issue in the estate and residents felt intimidated by gangs “drinking and shouting till the early hours of the morning”. Continued on Page 4
2 FINGAL GAZETTE 27 July 2017
TRANSPORT | IRISH RAIL MOVES TO CURB ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
Security at Northern line stations beefed up SYLVIA POWNALL
IRISH Rail has beefed up security along its northern line in a bid to stamp out anti-social behaviour. A second team has been employed to provide extra manpower at stations including Donabate and Balbriggan and gardai will patrol stations more frequently. Irish Rail issued a statement saying it had “held discussions with An Garda Siochana in relation to the problem of youths carrying out anti-social behaviour on the trains and at the stations along the line”. It added: “We also discussed the CCTV control room at Howth Junction and the fact that all stations on the northern line can be closely monitored from there.” In addition to tighter transport security gardai have committed to extra patrols at train stations during the summer. The move was welcomed by Cllr Adrian Henchy (FF) who has lobbied for the
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measures on behalf of constituents in Donabate and Portrane. He said he was hopeful the measures would help reduce instances of “youths from neighbouring communities visiting Donabate by train and causing significant civil unrest and disturbance”. However he added: “I remain very unconvinced on Irish Rail’s movement towards a policy of unmanned stations to be replaced by CCTV to be monitored from Howth Junction. “This places a significant extra burden on An Garda Siochana and the only way this could possibly work is constant extra security staff travelling on the trains especially at evenings and weekends.” The Donabate Village Facebook page applauded the move, noting: “Sometimes it’s even hard to get off the train due to their obnoxious behaviour.” Meanwhile Engineers Ireland have called for a shelved expansion of the DART to Balbriggan to be progressed, in tandem with the Metro North light rail network.
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Special needs funding boost for St Andrew’s welcomed FINE Gael TD for Fingal Alan Farrell has welcomed the allocation of funding for special needs projects for St. Andrew’s National School, Malahide (above). He said: “The provision of the necessary works, and resources, to our local schools is of the utmost importance in terms of supporting every child for the duration of their time in our education system. “It is positive news for the St. Andrew’s National School, and the members of the school community, that special needs projects will be facilitated under the Emergency Works Programme. “I will continue to work with the Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton TD, and his Department, to ensure our local schools receive the support they both require and deserve.”
Arts Council announces extra €35k for Fingal
Summer in Swords is simply the Fest! SWORDS was the place to be last weekend as the annual Summer Fest took over the town. Young Luke Battams (above) clearly had a ball, as did Aoife and Conor with their mum May (below). Check out our Out and About gallery on Pages 6-7 for more great pix – and don’t miss next week’s Fingal Gazette for all the action from the Malahide Festival, which takes place this weekend. Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON
FINGAL is set to benefit from an additional €35,000 in funding from the Arts Council. The awards include €15,520 for an east coast arts and biodiversity project (with Dublin City and Wexford county councils) and €20,000 to commission an Indecon report (with Kildare, Leitrim and Limerick county councils). Director of the Arts Council, Orlaith McBride said of the news: “I am delighted to confirm that Fingal County Council was successful in two projects and I am confident this funding will help foster a distinctive strategic, artistic and environmental collaboration within and among local authorities, which will result in unique public engagement opportunities.”
Swords Boxing Club warns locals of bogus collectors SWORDS residents are being warned to be vigilant following reports of bogus collectors calling door to door posing as members of the local boxing club. Swords Boxing Club chairman Thomas Clarke said: “There are people calling to homes in the Swords area and it’s not the first time this has happened. “The club is running for years in the community and has a well-established team of boxers. We just want to highlight this and bring it to the attention of residents. “It’s always good to ask people for identification when they call just to make sure that they are actually calling from the organisation they say they are from.” 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
27 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 3
PEOPLE | MEET THE DUB WHO MAKES 50-60 DELICIOUS MEALS A WEEK FOR HOMELESS PEOPLE
CURRY ON CARING EMMA NOLAN
Retired Ballyfermot man Brian Birkett learned to make curries when he worked for an Indian restaurant – now he prepares up to 60 meals a week for Dublin’s homeless. Picture: A LENDING HAND
A SELFLESS Dubliner has gone viral after photos of him cooking mouth-watering curries for the homeless were shared online. Retired Ballyfermot man Brian Birkett (65) is being hailed as an “inspiration” for his dedication to making up to SIXTY hot meals for Dublin’s homeless every Monday night on Dame St. He joked: “I hear Conor McGregor’s getting a bit upset about all the publicity I’m getting!” Brian told The Gazette he’s been “inundated” with calls since the photo went viral, but he’s just happy that the homeless crisis is being addressed. “It needs to be highlighted as much as possible,” said Brian, who volunteers with homeless charity A Lending Hand. “I’m delighted [with the publicity] and I couldn’t sing A Lending Hand’s praises enough.” The charity – set up by Coolock woman Keira Gill – is dedicated to providing food and other essentials to homeless people, and Brian’s become well-known for the delicious curries he’s been making for the past year and a half. “They don’t last 10 minutes!” Keira said of the 4-in-1s which contain chips, rice, chicken and curry sauce. “They know he’s coming and everyone asks, ‘Where’s Brian with the curries?’”
On Facebook last Monday, A Lending Hand posted a photo of Brian preparing his curries, adding that he needed a lift from Ballyfermot to Dame St. Within hours, the post had gone viral and he was inundated with offers to help. However, Keira and Brian said support for A Lending Hand has dwindled in recent months and donations of food had slowed, leaving volunteers footing the bill all on their own. Brian explained: “People used to call to my house with chicken fillets; one woman used to give me a sack of rice every two months and we were ticking over – but it seems like people thought the homeless crisis was sorted after Apollo House. But it’s still snowballing.” When Brian first volunteered he made sandwiches, but decided to start making hot meals once he realised the scale of the problem. “I was years working in an Indian restaurant where a Pakistani chef thought me how to make curries and I helped him learn English so my talents came in handy when I decided to have a go at making the curries,” he said. “Each one of those little tubs is a meal in itself.” “He’s a legend,” added Keira. “He’s famous, I said I’m going to have to ask him for his autograph now! “He’s a brilliant person.”
4 FINGAL GAZETTE 27 July 2017
LOCAL ENTERPRISE | LATEST ROUND OF FUNDING TO SEE 60 NEW JOBS CREATED From Page 1
Twenty one Fingal SMEs to share in €241K windfall SYLVIA POWNALL
The 21 small businesses and start-ups that were approved for financial supports this quarter by the Local Enterprise Office Fingal are poised to create almost 60 new jobs
A €241,000 cash injection has been approved by Fingal’s Local Enterprise Office through a number of its grant schemes aimed at supporting small businesses. The 21 small businesses and start-ups that were approved for financial supports this quarter by the Local Enterprise Office Fingal are poised to create almost 60 new jobs – 20 of them immediately. Included in this interesting group of businesses is an online subscription service for dog owners delivering a range of treats each month, a state-of-the-art lab facility that delivers optical frames and lenses to independent opticians, a busi-
ness that re-unites lost property with its owner anywhere in the world, a business that produces innovative waterproof membrane products for large scale construction, a food company that developed a range of gourmet granola cups and a business that manufactures craft products based on mythical Irish folklore, for online and retail. Head of Enterprise Oisin Geoghegan said: “Financial supports can be crucial in helping start-ups to flourish in their first year of operation and existing small businesses to grow. “This month we have a range of exciting new and expanding small businesses that have great potential to create further jobs in Fingal in the coming years.”
Fingal 10k is a race apart!
THE FINAL day of this year’s Summerfest saw the Fingal 10K race take over Swords last Sunday. In glorious sunshine, more than 4,000 athletes of all ages and levels competed in the event, which is part of the race series for the Dublin Marathon. John Coughlan was the first man over the line, while Gladys Ganiel was the fastest woman (both inset below). Check out the full gallery in next week’s Fingal Gazette or visit www.dublingazette.com. Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON Dave Gilroy waves to his fans while, right, the winners show off their trophies
Fed-up residents demand beefed-up security A spokesperson for Tesco said: “The safety of our colleagues and customers is our utmost priority and we are cooperating fully with the garda investigation [into the robbery].” The fed-up resident, who asked not to be named, said: “They drink in the green near River Valley and Cedar Square apartments drinking and shouting till the early hours of the morning. The police don’t seem to do much, or they never catch them. Drinking “They have been loitering as well behind the apartments drinking, breaking trees, graffiti. They get in to the apartment blocks when it starts to rain and gather at the car park on a regular basis. “There are a lot of families with young children living here.” The petition states that in light of the “frequency” with which Tesco Express is targeted “it is becoming increasingly worrying for staff and also the customers and our children using this store”. Security The Tesco spokesperson said any customer feedback would be taken on board. They added: “Tesco Ireland has a very robust security policy and infrastructure in place in all of our stores. “We keep our security arrangements under constant review to ensure the highest levels of security are in operation. “We always welcome feedback from our customers and colleagues which we will take this into account as part of our ongoing security reviews.”
27 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 5
GazetteGALLERY | EAST COAST MOTORCYCLING CLUB TO RUN IRISH ROAD RACE FINALE
Michael Sweeney and Ivan Curran
We’re here to take over
THE East Coast Motorcycling Club has announced that they are running 2017’s Irish Road Race finale. The circuit – previously run as Killalane Road Races, which was the traditional road race season closer – is now the Carole Nash East Coast Racing Festival. Following a brief sabbatical in 2016, this new Killalane circuit race will take place on Saturday and Sunday, September 9 and 10. The new East Coast Motorcycling Club was formed in 2016 following the cancellation of the Killalane Road Races last year, with a view to ensuring this fantastic annual motorcycle racing event, held since 1984, was retained as the finale on the Irish Road Race calendar. A Go-fund Me page has been set up for anyone who wants to support this event and every donation, no matter how small will help www.gofundme.com/45cgld4. Pictures: Ray Watts
HOWTH | ‘SEASIDE TOWN UNDER SIEGE’
Locals want to sea action over growing gull problem SYLVIA POWNALL
Michael Miko Sweeney and James Bissett
Francis Everard
Jim Russell, East Course commentator
Coast Motorcycle
George McCann
Club club president
George McCann interviews Darren O’Rourke
HOWTH residents who claim the seaside town is under siege from seagulls have taken their case to Minister for Regional Affairs Heather Humphreys. The tourism hot spot has followed Balbriggan’s lead in its bid to be allowed to remove the nests and eggs of protected gulls from rooftops. Fianna Fail TD Sean Haughey wrote to Minister Humphreys advising that Howth residents wanted action and he attached correspondence from one constituent who claimed to have witnessed a gull “swoop and take a chip from a baby’s mouth”. Minister Richard Bruton wrote to the Minister advising her that several people had contacted him about the issue. He asked her to inform him “what was done in Balbriggan and what were the criteria for securing a derogation”. Finian McGrath TD also wrote to Ms Humphreys’ office asking: “Can you advise as to what action you intend to take over the seagull problem in Howth? “It has been noted that you have taken action in the Balbriggan area and my Howth constituents are wondering whether you plan on carrying out similar action in the Howth area.” Deputy Darragh O’Brien (FF) wrote to Ms Humphreys and attached a letter from
a constituent who asked, among other things, about what will be done about the “explosion” of gulls in urban areas. Conservationists estimate the Irish gull population has declined by about 90 per cent in recent decades because of loss of habitat and overfishing in Irish waters. As landfills closed, many gulls migrated into towns to scavenge food waste left out or littered by humans. The pilot scheme was granted in Balbriggan following more than 50 letters claiming the scavengers had become a nuisance and posed a health risk. Ms Humphries approved it because of what she termed a “threat to public safety” but Bird Watch Ireland said there was no proof of any threat and vowed to monitor the process carefully. In December last year the Wildlife Licensing Unit of the Department of Regional Affairs asked the Health Service Executive whether the gull situation in north Dublin could be considered a public health issue. Documents released under the Freedom of Information Act show the HSE replied saying gulls do not appear to transmit harmful bacteria and viruses to humans in any meaningful amount. It stated: “There is little evidence that these birds constitute a significant infectious disease risk to humans.”
6 FINGAL GAZETTE 27 July 2017
Ryanair calls for an end to runway delays
RYANAIR has called for an end to “repeated delays” in the delivery of a second runway at Dublin Airport. The budget airline has asked the Attorney General’s department to speed up legislation to facilitate it. It also claims a second landing strip is a vital and urgent piece of national infrastructure, as runway capacity at Dublin is full at peak times. In a statement, the carrier says the runway “is critical to the continued growth of air travel to and from Ireland especially in the run up to - and after - Brexit, where multinationals are looking at Ireland’s air transport links as an alternative to London or other EU cities. “Repeated delays by the Attorney General’s department to expedite this simple piece of primary legislation, which is necessary to allow the second runway to proceed, are totally unacceptable.” Ryanair chief Michael
O’Leary told Newstalk: “There is a plan to build a second runway but there’s some planning restrictions, one of which involves allowing the IAA to monitor the noise of aircraft taking off, and the noise reductions that we’ve committed to. “That hasn’t proceeded because the statutory instrument giving the power to the IAA to... begin this noise monitoring has been tied up for over a year in the Attorney General’s office. “We’d like him to dot the ‘I’s, cross the ‘t’s, issue the statutory instrument and let’s get on with the job.” A spokesperson for the Department of Transport says Minister Shane Ross “is fully committed to promoting the development of airport capacity”, adding that it is “complex legislation” which takes time. Three separate actions against the runway being built will be heard in the Commercial Court in October.
A MAN who knocked another man to the ground with one punch leaving him with a serious head injury has been sentenced to three and half years in prison. The court heard when Julian Matiunin, 34, punched Jan Wielgus to the jaw, one witness described the victim as “falling down like a tree” while another person said they could hear “the crack of his head off the pavement”. Mr Wielgus, 46, was later treated in hospital in intensive care for bleeding on the brain. He was put into an induced coma and discharged over three weeks later. He returned to hospital the following week because of problems with his stomach from being intubated. He continues to suffer from strong headaches and vomiting. Lithuanian Matiunin, of Holywell Way, Swords
pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing harm to Mr Wielgus at St Stephen’s Green West on June 21, 2015. The men had been drinking earlier in the Dandelion Bar and Club on St Stephen’s Green having met for the first time that night. The court heard the atmosphere changed when Matiunin began to dance around a number of women in the nightclub making them feel uncomfortable. Mr Wielgus intervened and suggested to the accused that he should leave them alone. A row erupted outside the club with punches thrown from both sides. Other people tried to break it up and Mr Wielgus started to walk away before Matiunin followed him and threw a closed fisted punch hitting the victim in the jaw. Judge Karen O’Connor suspended the last 12
Out and About
Ildiko Gergely with Isabelle, Ava and Alanagh McGauley. Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON
Summerfest is bigger One punch leads to 3 ½ year term and better than ever! F
ollowing on from last year’s successful event, Swords Summerfest returned with even more family entertainment and some brilliant live music acts. The four-day event had a programme to suit all tastes with lots of free
Matthew Dunne, Layla Flood and Killian Dunne
entertainment as well as music, drama, history, and of course the Fingal 10K with more than 4,000 runners. Events such as this are a great opportunity for the Fingal community to come together as well as being of huge value to the local economy.
Evan O’Beirne with his dad Stephen
27 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 7
Out and About
John Jones and Olly
Liam Walshe
A.J Corish
New venue for this year’s Rush Harbour festival THE countdown is on to the annual Rush Harbour Festival with a change of venue announced for this year’s event. Rush Festival Committee, a sub-committee of Rush Community Council, has decided to stage this year’s celebrations in the Harbour Park from Friday August 4 to Monday August 7. The move was taken following detailed consultations with Fingal County Council and taking on board the views of the local community. In a statement Fingal County Council said: “Rush has had a long history of staging summer festivals, like the May Bush Festival which ran during the 1970s and 1980s. “The Harbour Festival, which was started in 2010, and has become the major August Bank Holiday festival in the North County and a source of muchneeded funds for community projects.
“Since it was founded in 1974, Rush Community Council has endeavoured to co-ordinate the efforts of various community groups under one umbrella and to unite them in their endeavours. “The Community Council and the town’s various community groups are made up of volunteers who give of their time to make Rush a better place to live in and today’s residents are reaping the dividends of that work. “Rush Community Council and the Rush Tourism Committee look forward to working with Fingal County Council and other agencies over the next two weeks to prepare for the 2017 Rush Harbour Festival and look forward to welcoming the residents of the town, as well as visitors from near and far, to this year’s event over the August Bank Holiday weekend.”
Man charged with popular dad’s murder
Sorch and Cara Mooney with Tia Roche
Alex Antwoon with Johnny Doyle from The National Maggie with her dad Paul
Isabella Papadie
Reptile Zoo
A DUBLIN man has been charged with the murder of a father-of-three who was found stripped naked and dying on the side of a street. Anthony Walsh, 29, appeared in Dublin District Court accused of killing popular businessman Dermot Byrne, 54, who died after sustaining injuries in Swords last Sunday. A passer-by discovered Mr Byrne on the steps of a school and raised the alarm, but he died despite efforts by paramedics to save him. Mr Byrne will be buried today at Dardistown Cemetery following funeral mass at 11am at St Colmcille’s Church in Swords. Judge Fiona Lydon remanded Mr Walsh in custody for a week after hearing he made no reply to the charge after caution.
Mr Walsh, of no fixed address, is charged with murdering Mr Byrne at North St, Swords, on July 16. Garda Killian Leydon, of Coolock Garda Station, told the court he arrested Mr Walsh at 4.45pm on July 20 on the grounds of St James’s Hospital, Dublin 8. MrWalsh was brought to Swords Garda Station and charged in the garda’s presence. He made no reply after caution. Defence solicitor Jonathan Dunphy asked the judge to direct “medical attention” for the accused while he is in custody. Judge Lydon granted free legal aid to the accused,who was in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance, and remanded him in custody to appear in Cloverhill District Court on Friday July 28.
8 FINGAL GAZETTE 27 July 2017
Renewed calls for Government to fasttrack Estuary Greenway
FASTNews Quinn calls for more investment in social housing HOUSING Minister Eoghan Murphy must increase investment in social and affordable housing in Fingal, Cllr Malachy Quinn (SF) says. Insisting that families need homes not hubs he said: “With almost 8,000 people including almost 3,000 children living in emergency accommodation in both Fingal and across the State, it’s clear the Government’s programme of building and buying housing for those with acute housing need is not sufficient. Cllr Quinn added: “What is needed is immediate, ambitious and decisive action to provide homes.” He also called for additional staff and funding so the council can invest in building and buying social and affordable housing.
THE Green Party has called on the Government to fund the long-awaited MalahideDonabate Greenway. The walkway and cycling route spanning the Broadmeadow Estuary has been planned for some time but no funding has yet been identified. Party representative Mark Henry wrote to the Department of Transport last week calling for funding to be made available since the National Parks & Wildlife Service has given the project its approval. The walkway and cycling route spanning the Broadmeadow Estuary at Malahide has been planned for some time but no funding has yet been identified. Mr Henry, the Green Party representative for Donabate and Swords, said: “The Programme for Government promised over €100 million of new investment in developing
Greenways around Ireland but not one cent of this has been spent yet. “The cost of building the Donabate-Malahide Greenway has been estimated at €4 million – a mere 4 per cent of what the government has promised to make available. “I am calling on this funding to be made a priority in the national budget in October.” Councillor David Healy, right, the Green Party’s representative for Malahide-Howth, said “The Green Party views the delivery of this Greenway as the first step in building a Fingal Coastal Route that would connect from Balbriggan right along the coast to Howth. “This would interconnect with the Clontarf cycleway to allow seamless commuting from North County Dublin right into the city centre. It could also be a great draw for tourists who could spend a whole day of their holiday exploring the north county.”
HOUSING | PLAN FOR 550 NEW HOMES APPROVED
First phase of ‘mini village’ near Baldoyle given the green light SYLVIA POWNALL THE first phase of a major development which could create a new ‘mini village’ near Baldoyle was last week given the green light. Fingal County Council granted permission for 550 housing units at The Coast under phase 1 of the BaldoyleStapolin local area plan. It will see construction on a site that has undeveloped lands to the north, the Myrtle residential development to the south, Red Arches to the east and Clongriffin railway station to the west. The planning permission provides for 379 apartments and 171 houses in a high-density mix with a village centre with apartments over the retail units (see artist’s impressions, inset). Almost 900 car parking spaces will be built for residents and visitors, as well as 62 car parking spaces for the commercial units
themselves. The area was last year allocated just over e6million in funding from the Department of the Environment to service land clearing the way for 1,500 housing units to be built in the long term. Two other key zones in Fingal are also earmarked for substantial growth – with 1,200 housing units
to be built in Donabate by 2021 and a further 800 in the Oldtown/ Mooretown area. In its submission under the Local Infrastructure Housing Activation Fund the council identified the Stapolin-Baldoyle area as a “major urban housing development site”. The local authority aims to release lands previously identified in the Baldoyle Local Area Plan 2013 for housing. Separately, Dublin City Council has identified a site at Belmayne as a major urban housing development site. It requested €3million under the infrastructure fund for road access to facilitate 620 units by 2021 with the submission stating: “A total potential of 1,380 homes can be provided on the lands in question with an estimated 7,000 capable of being delivered in the wider zoned lands.”
27 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 9
FASTNews
HEALTH | TERMINALLY ILL PARENTS URGE OTHERS TO BE AWARE OF BODY CHANGES
Funding boost for childcare services hailed CHILDCARE services in Fingal are to receive €429,000 in extra funding. The boost was announced by TD Alan Farrell, chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on Children and Youth Affairs. The funding, which comes at a key moment in Ireland’s move to accessible, affordable quality childcare includes €20,000 for Balbriggan Community Childcare Group Ltd. Encouraging parents to take the time to visit www. affordablechildcare.ie, Deputy Farrell said: “This funding will benefit children, families and providers under our Early Years programmes, and will contribute to the development of an infrastructure that is ready to meet the radical new approach to subsidising childcare.”
Help brave Karen & Ed to make memories with their ‘gorgeous babies’
SYLVIA POWNALL PALS of a brave Baldoyle couple who are terminally ill have vowed to help the pair make memories with their three young children. Karen and Ed Stewart, left, were diagnosed with different forms of cancer within weeks of each other. Karen, 36, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma at the age of 18 but she had gone into remission until she was given the devastating news that the cancer was back. Around the same time, her husband Ed, 42, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was told he has months to live. He is now under the care of St Francis Hospice. The brave couple are urging anyone with an irregular pain or a lump to go to their doctor and get it checked out. Karen said: “If you have a pain, go get it checked. If you have a lump, get it checked. It might be nothing but could be something. Don’t leave it until it’s too late. “And if you don’t get relief straight away just go private. It costs around €250 and you get the results faxed to your doctor that day. That is how my husband found out.” Ed has been Karen’s rock and main carer throughout her lengthy cancer battle and pals have now rallied around to support them and their three kids Keeva, 10, Finn, 8 and Erin, 4. A GoFundMe page was set up so the parents can enjoy their last months together with their children and by Monday afternoon it had raised €36,000 of its €50,000 target. The page reads: “The aim of the fund is help raise some money so Karen and Ed can make as many memories as possible with their three gorgeous babies.” An update from the account said that both Karen and Ed started chemotherapy at the end of May. The post added: “They are both hopeful and staying positive.” n To help, please visit https://www.gofundme.com/ karen-and-eds-making-memories-fund
10 GAZETTE 27 July 2017
Out and About
Actress Aoibhin Garrihy
Actress Cathy Belton
Jackie Harte
Stars are out for world premiere
Vincent Brightling, Pat Moylan and Ciaran Walsh. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
Aisling Holly and Lindsey Dolan
Rachel Treacy and actor Johnny Ward
T
HE world premiere of Angela’s Ashes The Musical took place at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre last week. Based on the best-selling memoir by Frank McCourt, Angela’s Ashes The Musical follows the life of an impoverished boy living in Limerick between the 1930s and 40s who dreams of something better.
Peter and Doireann Sheridan
Andrea Smith and Cathy O’Connor
Aisling Conway and Tina O’Kelly
Kathleen Watkins and Anne Friel
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 11
Rebecca Whelan, Caroline Whelan, Layla Pierce and Josephine and Deirdre Sweeney
Mia Whelan
Under the spell of an epic comedy
Stephan, Cooper, Zak, Millie and Brody Murray. Left: Andy and Darragh Preston Pictures: Brian McEvoy
C
OMEDY fans flocked to the Odeon Cinema in Point Village last week for a special invite only family preview screening of Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie. This comedy for the entire family tells the story of two overly imaginative pranksters named George and Harold, who hypnotize their principal into thinking he’s a ridiculously enthusiastic, incredibly dim witted superhero named Captain Underpants.
Amy Murtagh, Kyle Murtagh, Nicole Cranley and Ava Cranley
Aaron and Derek Wall
Radio presenter Phillip Cawley with wife Rochelle and children Abbey Burton, Linda Burton and Mia Richard and Hannah
O’Reilly
Mushiira Nawool and Aleena Nawool
Ava Norman, Avril O’Connor and Alex Norman
GAZETTE
12 GAZETTE 27 July 2017
DUBLINBUSINESS
SHORTLST: TWO DUBLINERS UP FOR A PRESTIGIOUS RETAIL WIN
Seafood experts hope to hook a top award EMMA NOLAN TWO Dubliners have made it to the BIM Seafood Retail Business Awards 2018 finals. Laura Desmond, from Reid’s Fish Market in Howth, was one of four people shortlisted under the Independent Seafood Specialist category, while Scott Smullen of Dunnes Stores in Cornelscourt was named a Supermarket Seafood Manager finalist in the competition. BIM are specifically looking for retail managers that can demonstrate successful business models, and an excellent understanding of seafood, coupled with outstanding business and sales acumen. The competition finals will take place in September when each of the finalists will present to a panel of business experts including retail mentor James Burke, entrepreneur and business-
man Bobby Kerr, financial advisor Moira Creedon, and Ronald Hovenars, a food business mentor from Holland who brings an international element of insight into progressive seafood retailing. Speaking after the announcement of the finalists, Jim O’Toole, chief executive of BIM said: “In September the finalists will need to reflect to the judges how they have implemented what they have learned through their mentoring with the experts in BIM for the benefit of the business, and how they plan to grow their businesses into the future. I wish them all the very best of luck.” The winners will receive a prize package of business supports worth €15,000 including branding and promotional advice, PR training, business mentoring and support, helping to further develop their business into the future.
No matter how great – or awful – your current job and company is, if you’re moving on continue to work as best you can, and show grace when it’s time to go
Resign with grace, and continue with a professional outlook
Finalists Laura Desmond, from Reid’s Fish Market in Howth, and Scott Smullen, of Dunnes Stores in Cornelscourt
Dublin still has a long way to improve for women entrepreneurs as city ranks 34th out of 50 cities EMMA NOLAN
DUBLIN has been ranked 34th in the top 50 Global Cities for Women Entrepreneurs. The findings were announced at the eight annual Dell Women Entrepreneur Network Summit, with the study’s results ranking cities based on the impact of local policies, programmes and characteristics in addition to national laws and customs. It found that New York City, the San Francisco Bay Area, London, Boston and Stockholm are the top-five cities for high-potential women entrepre-
While Dublin city has a number of key strengths for women entrepreneurs, the city also still faces some challenges to overcome to create a better environment for all entrepreneurs, regardless of gender
neurs. Dublin’s placement saw it just behind Nairobi and ahead of Warsaw.
The city’s notable strengths include its status as the Digital Capital of Europe, generous maternity leave policy, high-
quality education and accessibility to technology training, with areas for improvement including the city’s high cost of living and childcare supports. Elizabeth Gore, entrepreneur-in-residence at Dell, said: “Each of the cities on this list can learn from one another and encourage political change to attract and support women entrepreneurs. “The resulting change will be felt at not just a city level, but around the world as we develop an ecosystem where all entrepreneurs can thrive regardless of gender.”
YOU’VE done the interview, and aced the presentation – now you’ve been offered your dream job. The next step is informing your current employer that you’re leaving. Keep in mind that your current employer is still paying your salary and you have contractual obligations to fulfil before you leave. Even if you are really unhappy in your current job, there are benefits to managing your resignation professionally and continuing to meet the expectations of the role. You need to provide your current employer with a resignation letter. The better option in many situations is to meet with your line manager and tell them that you have decided to leave, and give them the resignation letter. In the resignation letter, it is okay to thank the employer for the oppor-
Are you ready to resign from your current job? For further information, and for help and advice in progressing your career, contact RecruitmentPlus at 01 2788 610, or see www.recruitmentplus.ie.
tunity and be positive about the time you had within the company. If you are working through a notice period, it’s good practice to continue to perform. It is also an opportunity to prepare good handover notes and help your current employer to transition as easily as possible. Try and give your employer as much time as you can to find a replacement. If your current employer is hostile to your departure, you don’t have to mirror this behaviour. There are benefits to maintaining a high-performance level through to your last day. You don’t know what path your career will take, and you may encounter some of your colleagues again in another organisation. Your legacy and references will be impacted by your exit strategy, so handle it professionally, discreetly and with grace.
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 13
MOTORING: FORD FIESTA P22
CINEMA: DUNKIRK P24
DUBLINLIFE Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
LET LADY BRING SOME ADVENTURE TO YOUR LIFE OUR Dog of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* is Lady. Lady is a beautiful female Rottweiler aged 5. She is an amazing dog in every way and she loves people and other dogs. She loves cuddles and attention from people and loves making new friends. Lady really enjoys an adventure and loves travelling in the car. She is very playful and loves a game of tug and her tennis balls. Like her name, she is a real Lady and likes to be clean and tidy and just loves to be brushed, she also loves her comforts and likes to chill in a nice, cosy soft bed. Lady is looking for an active family that will take her on day trips where she can potter around and enjoy life. Lady can live with children who are at least 10 years of age and she would also be willing to share her home with another playful dog! If you can be Lady’s #SpecialSomeone*, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website, www.dogstrust. ie. You can also find them on Facebook, atfacebook. com/dogstrust irelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE.
GAZETTE
STYLE: DRESSING UP P18
A voice of reason JAMES HENDICOTT YOU most likely know Rubberbandits for something daft. It might be that Horse Outside video, their numerous appearances on RTE’s Republic of Telly, or an episode of Rubberbandits Guide To. You might even remember their Channel 4 outing with the Almost Impossible Gameshow. In the latter, they had contestants complete ludicrous mini-games like “groin croissant”, in which the frustrated participants had a few seconds to shake free a plastic pastry attached to a certain part of the outside of their jumpsuit with velcro. Continued on Page 16
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DUBLINLIFE
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT AND HELP IN RACE FOR A CURE
CITYWEST HOTEL HAS IT ALL FOR SOME SUMMER FAMILY FUN
doors. Visit citywesthotel. com for more info.
AROUND 2,800 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and on September 9 and 10 thousands will take part in the 7th year of the Great Pink Run with Avonmore Slimline Milk to run for them. Many of those participating will wear elaborate pink costumes and paint their faces to support Breast Cancer Ireland’s pioneering research and awareness programmes nationally. Unfortunately, many people know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer and the Great Pink Run is an opportunity to come out and show support by running, walking or jogging for them. Registrations are now open at www.greatpinkrun.ie.
LOOKING for some summer family activities? The Citywest Hotel has just launched their summer family fun activities programme. Packages start from €372 for a family of four to include two nights B&B including dinner in the new Woodlock Brasserie, children’s activities and full access to the leisure facilities. Until August 27, guests are invited to partake in a full programme of family fun activities, events and classes that will cater for all the family. Citywest Hotel will host cupcake classes, pizza parties, disco and karaoke and a fairy trail, where parents and children can make their evening stroll more exciting by going on the hunt for the hotel’s fairy
JOIN DAY-LONG FUNDRAISER TO HELP KICK CANCER’S BUTT ON July 29, a day-long fundraiser called Kick Cancer in the Butt will celebrate Saggart-native Jimmy Byrne. This is the fourth year of this popular event organised by Ruth Devoy, from Rathcoole, which celebrates Jimmy’s life. “I was inspired to run this event because of first-hand experience of the great work of the hospice from the care received by friends and family. “Last year with the help of family, friends and hundreds of generous supporters over €16,000 was raised for Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services and we hope to do even better this year,” she said. All funds raised will provide essential equipment
DIARY DIARY for the patients of Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services. For details, contact Clare Farrelly at 085-7735010 or visit www.facebook.com/ kickcancerinthebutt/
IT’S ALWAYS TIME TO LOOK OUT FOR SCAMS TIME’S almost up on Scam Awareness Month – but OFTEC, which represents the domestic oil and heating industry, are urging everyone to stay alert whenever anyone calls to the front door. As this July was marked as the group’s month to
Lucy and Kate Dowling and Olympian Sonia O’Sullivan who will lead out the Great Pink Run. Picture: PAT MOORE
Pink power
be extra aware of some common doorstep scams, OFTEC want everyone to remember its warnings all year round, and to keep the heat on any scammers at your door! One of the main things to look out for is the right OFTEC accreditation, with certified technicians and installers required to have the official identity badge to prove it. W hile thoughts of oil heating and top-ups may not be at the top of your to-do list right now, OFTEC hopes everyone will remember to look out for scammers at any time of the year.
COMPETITION TO CELEBRATE KIDS’ CREATIVITY THIS summer, proud parents across Ireland and the UK will have the opportunity to see their child’s drawings displayed for all to see. In partnership with Mumsnet, BIC KIDS is launching a competition celebrating kids’ creativity by taking their drawings beyond the fridge door, putting 10 lucky winners’ works of art on billboards nationwide. Running from July 17 to August 6, the competition is open to all aged 5-11. To enter, parents sim-
ply need to take a photo of their child’s drawing and upload it to the native discussion page on the Mumsnet website by Sunday, August 6. Entries will then be judged by an expert panel of creatives from the marketing, publishing and illustration industries, before winners are notified and the billboards launched in September. For more information visit mumsnet.com.
THIRTEEN DUBLIN BANDS AMONG PICNIC SHORTLIST THIRTEEN Dublin bands are amongst the 30 shortlisted acts for the 2FM Play
Citywest has a huge choice of activities for a fantastic family break
The Picnic Competition, with the Top 10 acts getting to play at Electric Picnic this September. The voting text line is open until Friday, July 28, for this competition run in conjunction with Festival Republic, Jack & Jill and RTE 2fm on www.2fm.ie. The final 10 acts will get to Play the Picnic tent at Electric Picnic, with the overall winner also getting to play the Cosby Stage at Electric Picnic and winning a full day studio session at RTE’s state-of-the-art recording studio. The Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation is the charity partner benefiting from this campaign. It provides home nursing care and respite to sick kids and the charity has supported 2,200 children nationwide since 1997. As well as voting for their favourite unsigned band, texters are in with a chance of winning tickets to Electric Picnic by simply texting the word PICNIC followed by the number assigned to your favourite act and the text costs €2 and Jack & Jill will receive a minimum of €1.63. See https://2fm.rte. ie/2017/06/06/2fm-playpicnic-2017/ for the bands and their codes.
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 15
SEARCH: TV3 LOOKING FOR NEW TV WATCHERS FOR ITS NEXT GOGGLEBOX IRELAND SERIES
GAZETTE
FEATURES
Tune in to ... you on the telly? DO YOU laugh at your own jokes, or do your friends hang on your every word? If so, and if you think you and your family or your friend’s witty banter needs to be shared with the world, Gogglebox Ireland is back this autumn and TV3 are on the look-out for some new faces (and their sofas) to join Ireland’s most opinionated TV fans. For the brand-new series, TV3 bosses are looking for long-term couples, brothers and sisters, retired people, sporty lads – they’re even looking out for
-------------------------
TV3 bosses are even looking out for any funny nuns or priests to take part in the next series -------------------------
the clergy, so if you know any funny nuns or priests (or are one yourself) ... The last season saw the country laugh along with some hilarious, highly-opinionated households like pals Tracie and Anita from The Liberties, best friends
Previous Goggleboxers (clockwise from top left) Angela and Aileen, The Gruffertys, The Tully Twins and ‘The Cabra Girls’: Jamie, Lindsay, Ashley and Grainne
Angela and Eileen from Castleknock, and John and Dave from Dublin 8, as well as a whole host of other people. If you think you’ve got what it takes, email casting@kiteentertainment.com, and tell them who’s in your group, where you’re based, what you like to watch together, and a group photo of yourselves if possible.
You could end up ‘on the telly’ too if you apply for the show
Raptors wing it to the skies over Tayto Park NAME NAME
Birds of prey and other exotic species can now be spotted at Tayto Park’s expanded park
SOME 20 rare birds of prey are now living at Tayto Park as part of its World of Raptors exhibit. The park’s brand-new open air seating arena is home to the exhibit which gives visitors a very rare up close and personal experience with the magnificent species, with various species of eagles, owls, vultures and falcons from all across the world taking part in a freeflying demonstration at the arena. Not only can visitors enjoy the aerial displays featuring the world’s largest eagles and fastest birds of prey, as well as impressive vultures and iconic owls, they also learn all about these birds with educational talks from the
bird of prey team. Speaking on the latest attraction at Tayto Park, a team spokesperson said: “We’re very excited for the opening of World of Raptors. It’s been a very busy time getting all the birds fit and ready for the display, so it’s great the time is finally here for the opening. “Working with raptors is a very special job and we’re lucky to get to share our work with everyone that visits. It’s amazing getting to see them grow and express their natural behaviours, just as they would do in the wild.” World of Raptors opened on July 20 with falconry displays and educational talks taking place twice daily at Tayto Park. For further information and opening hours, see www.taytopark.ie/themepark/world-of-raptors.
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 17
DUBLINLIFE
N O S ’ T A H W
E D I U G S T N E EV with JAMES HENDICOTT
Newmarket Flea Market
The best of the Dublin 8 square’s monthly rotation of events, the Flea Market sprawls across the Food Co-Op, the Green Door Market and the Newmarket square, with bric-a-brac and vintage clothing to explore. July 30.
Why Rubberbandits Matter...
Hotter Than July
A world music festival hosted in Smithfield, this free event on the square features music from Ghana, Saudi Arabia, Palestine and more, as well as stacks of kids entertainment. July 30, 3pm to 9pm.
Out To Lunch All Day Party
HOTTER THAN JULY
Hosted somewhere in Howth - the precise spot is secret until nearer the time - the Out To Lunch All Day Party is divided into ‘home’ (Dublin acts) and ‘away’ (those who are just visiting). It has a distinctly dancy flavour. July 29
Head Stuff Lectures
The 12th and latest in the popular series of talks sees half a dozen people stand up and talk about anything that happens to take their fancy. Think TED Talks with an Irish flavour. Times of Ireland journalist Ellen Coyne is amongst the stars. August 2.
Howth Trad Fest
The peninsula will bring eight venues to life over an extended bank holiday weekend as the likes of Kila, Declan O’Rourke and Andy Irvine take to a Smithwick’s trail. The festival will also feature outdoor performances and a nice selection of free gigs to get your teeth into. June 2-5.
‘Malahide Has It’ Festival
Malahide’s own music festival is a family friendly offering featuring barbeque on the beach, food stalls, lively entertainment and lots of other family-leaning fun, bringing out the best of the town. July 28-30.
Big Bang Festival
Meeting House Square in Temple Bar comes alive with a selection of dancers performing on July 30, taking in styles ranging from Palestinian Dabke dance to a form inspired by a range of African adventures. One to get the feet tapping.
Manchester United v Sampdoria
The Manchester United pre-season tour stops off at the Aviva, with legendary Italian club Sampdoria the opposition. The quality of sides appearing at these friendlies can vary substantially from the first team, but expect a few stars to turn up on August 2.
New album of the week
Arcade Fire - Everything Now. Canadian indie stars return with another dose of their swirling brand of driving melody and subtle harmonies, having made many of the album announcements in the run up to ‘Everything Now’ through a Twitter account disguised as a Russian spambot.
Picture: Graham Keogh
MUSIC
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It’s high time the comedy hip-hop stars were given credit for their insight and intelligence JAMES HENDICOTT They are, in short, quite exceptionally silly. But their satire also has a tendency to shine a light on Irish society. Put aside the croissant shaking, or songs about Spastic Hawks, and some corners of their professional output is subtly but brilliantly political. They take a satirical look at race relations on Black Man. Spoiling Ivan documents the friendship between a grown man and a child, playing off the inbuilt societal assumption that labels such a friendship as somehow wrong. There’s even an ode to holding off on sex, and its relationship benefits. Far beyond the music, their use of social media, and public comments on sensitive issues have stretched in scope and become ever-more assured. It’s a trend that seemed to really kick off when Blindboy Boatclub called into Joe Duffy to debate the drug references in Horse Outside. In doing so, he absolutely shredded an irate caller, confidently explaining the duo’s thinking in the process. There’s a certain confidence that comes with addressing serious issues anonymously from behind the mask of a holey plastic bag. By engaging with Blindboy (who tends to be the louder of the pair on the issues), it’s very difficult for a TD, for example, to come out well. That Blindboy’s angles are so astute and well reasoned is one thing. He’s also advantaged by the very nature of the argument: should a rival outwit the rapper (and it’s rare), they are nevertheless arguing with a silly comedian, typically topless from the waist up, and facially ensconced in a plastic bag. And the man in the bag usually comes off the more reasoned and intelligent. From such a platform, The Rubberbandits in particular through their social media - have loudly railed against perceived injustices, and done so to huge audiences. Their Facebook alone, for example, has 420,000 followers. Last week, they posted: “Something tells me we’re going to look back on direct provision centres in the same way we now look back on abusive catholic institutions.” There’s no joke there. No punchline. It’s a direct railing against a Government policy stated succinctly and potently. They went on to get involved in the replies, articulately explaining their reasoning, and encouraging readers to get in contact with their TDs about the issue. Over 2,000 different readers engaged with the post. Just inside the last month, they’ve posted - in amongst pleas for help finding a missing cat, and a handful of comedy skits - a similarly strong message encouraging Leo Varadkar to
work on mental health and housing issues. They’ve extolled the virtues of a “snowflake” generation, talking of the mental health benefits that come from being open about feelings. They waded into the Herald’s mistaken use of a picture of rapper Stormzy in place of Romelu Lukaku, pointing out hypocrisies to those playing down the significance of the error. This stuff, clearly, is way beyond the normal remit of a comedy act. They’ve moved realms, in a sense, to a world where they’ve learnt they can punch above their weight. In doing so, the Rubberbandits have become a serious voice for socially liberal, left-wing values, one that can seem oddly lacking amongst the political classes. Hip-hop - especially home-grown hip-hop has never held as much cultural weight in Ireland as it does today. In acts like Rusangano Family, Rejjie Snow, Lethal Dialect and Tempermental Misselayneous, there are suddenly voices willing to critique loudly in their music, and that’s progress, especially in a time of political upheaval. For all the unquestioned brilliance of Rusangano Family’s work, especially in the immigration commentary of Heathrow, Rubberbandits are the act that have crafted a public voice outside of their music, and they’re relentlessly, vocally and unapologetically opinionated. Blindboy Boatclub can seem an oddly articulate voice to those only familiar with his less serious musical output. He’s fast become one of the most astute political commentators in the country.
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DUBLINLIFE
Shoe gallery move makes it the sole stop for shoppers THE Arnotts Shoe Gallery is Ireland’s largest women’s footwear department, and now offers customers an even better shopping experience with the new department located right next to the sprawling womenswear department on Level 1. T h e new sp ace offers 3,000 different
V-neck choker slip dress €25; Ashlee faux fur coat €53
High waist skinny check leggings €31; Olive cross back satin cami top €20; Gingham print frill hem mini skirt €24; Cross front frill sleeve crop top €25
styles from 52 footwear brands, which equates to 54,000 pairs of shoes in stock! The new shoe gallery also welcomes a number of exciting new brands to the womenswear shoe collection this season, including French footwear brand Jonak, and the worldrenowned footwear brand Michael Kors.
Colour Infusion cuff €49
Mermaid €36
Charming bangles from Alex & Ani
Paisley printed cami maxi €38; Wrap flute sleeve dress €29
Starfish €41
What Is For You Will Not Pass You €41 WHETHER it’s a confirmation, wedding, festival, summer holiday or if you’re just looking for a thoughtful gift, ALEX AND ANI have a bangle for every occasion. From meaningful charms to that perfect pop of summer colour, here are our summer picks for the brand, which is available in Kilkenny Shop, Arnotts, Weirs & Sons and jewellery stores nationwide.
V-neck tea dress €27
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 19
resses.ie Dto impresss
for summer
High waist skinny check leggings €31; Olive cross back satin cami top €20; Gingham print frill hem mini skirt €24; Cross front frill sleeve crop top €25
EMMA NOLAN Style Editor
a one-stop-shop for cute playsuits and dresses from just €25 to see you through Electric Picnic. Visit dresses.ie today for their full range.
Embroidered denim jacket €55
Su The ede B re are hee ly ls € 34
Ro The se g re old hee Bar ls € ely 33
IRISH brand dresses.ie has dropped its high summer collection. This affordable
range is available online only and includes the latest seasonal trends, from gingham to ruffles. Need a few festival outfits? This website is
Embroidered mesh cami dress €35
Monochrome wrap playsuit €27
Tie sleeve cold shoulder dress €25
Ruffle cold shoulder mini dress €32
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STYLE
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FOOD&DRINK
Making mouthwatering mini meringues is so easy INJECT a burst of colour to your dessert this summer by whipping up a batch of these adorable and delightful summer-inspired mini meringues. This simple dessert, courtesy of our friends at Siucra, will create a firework display of colour and flavour for your next summer soiree. Ask the kids to help you with the toppings for this tasty combination of different flavoured meringues, with this recipe making about 40-60 mini meringues.
Ingredients (for the mini meringues) 4-5 egg whites (about 150g) 300g Siucra Granulated Sugar Half tsp vinegar Piping bag Ingredients (for the colours and toppings) 2 tbsp lemon zest 50g desiccated coconut 3 tbsp freeze-dried raspberries 3 tbsp cocoa Yellow, red and pink food colouring Edible glitter Preparation Preheat the oven to 200c. Line a baking tray
(30x40cm) with parchment paper, pour the sugar onto it and place in the oven for about five minutes. Meanwhile, whisk the egg whites into firm white peaks, then take the sugar out of the oven and lower the heat to 100C. Continue whisking the egg whites at high speed and add the hot sugar a little at a time. Following this, add the vinegar. Whisk at maximum speed for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture is opaque and completely stiff. Add flavourings as desired. Click or pipe out small meringues, then bake in the oven for three hours. Next switch off the oven and leave the meringues in the residual heat for a few hours, until they are completely dry.
Add flavourings as desired 2 tbsp lemon zest, yellow food colouring. 50g desiccated coconut, half added to the meringue mixture and half scattered over the top. 3 tbsp freeze-dried raspberries, red/pink food colouring. About 3 tbsp cocoa, 1 tbsp folded into the mixture and 2 tbsp scattered over the meringues. Sprinkle with edible glitter to add a magical touch. Serve, and enjoy!
A Dory-licious dish EMMA NOLAN IRELAND’S 10 semifinalists for the S Pellegrino Young Chef 2018 competition have been announced, with Romuald Bukaty (right) from Swords in with a chance of winning. The finalists have been selected from thousands of applications submitted by young chefs from more than 90 different countries, all looking for their chance to be part of S Pellegrino’s global
talent search for the world’s best young chef. Romuald Bukaty is chef de partie at The Clayton Hotel, Dublin Airport, and his dish is, Hey John Dory (above). Each young chef’s application and signature dish was evalu-
ated by experts at the world’s leading international educational and training centre for Italian cuisine, ALMA, in charge of the local finalist selection. The experts of ALMA evaluated the applications in adherence to its five golden rules relating to ingredients, skill, genius, beauty and message. The semi-finalists of each region will compete in local challenges until this December. Best of luck, Romuald!
ChanChan adds Korean Hot Pepper to spice up Irish fast-food favourite EMMA NOLAN ATTENTION, spice bag lovers! The Dublin delicacy has become even spicier with the introduction of a Korean Hot Pepper version of the ChanChan Spice Bag
Seasoning Mix. The original ChanChan Spice Bag Mix caused a stir when it launched, allowing people to make their own healthier at-home versions of this now iconic Irish fast-food dish.
It is now available from even more retailers across Ireland, and is now joined by a spicier version with added Korean Hot Pepper. Known as the flavour of Hong Kong and created by Chef Kwanghi from
an original mix of spices and herbs for an authentic flavour, the seasoning mixes taste good on pretty much everything. They’re also MSG-free and priced at just €2.95 for a tub containing 50 servings.
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 21
TravelShorts
Travelmood deals to whisk you off to the summer sun (even in Jan!)
IF YOU’VE ever wanted to see the world, worldwide holiday specialists Travelmood have just the thing for you. From Mauritius and the Dominican Republic to South Africa and Thailand, Travelmood has your holiday needs well and truly covered, with destinations jampacked with experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Go all-inclusive in Mauritius and the Dominican Republic, or experience life in the wild on safari in Thailand or South Africa.
Thailand Spend eight nights this September at the Centara Karon Resort, Phuket, B&B, and two nights at the four-star Elephant Hills Jungle Safari, Koh Sok, on a full board basis, from only €1,389pps. Price includes return flights ex. Dublin, 10 nights’ accommodation, taxes and charges, based on two adults sharing. (Ref number:1512864.) South Africa Spend four nights next January at the four-star Southern Sun Waterfront, Cape Town, B&B, and three nights on safari at the four-star Aquila
Private Game Reserve, on a full-board basis from only €1,729pps. Price includes return flights ex. Dublin, seven nights’ accommodation, taxes and charges, based on two adults sharing. (Ref number: 1510145.)
Dominican Republic Spend seven nights next January at the fivestar Dreams Dominicus La Romana (above), on an all-inclusive basis, from only €1,889pps. Price includes return flights ex. Dublin, seven nights’ accommodation, taxes and charges, based on two adults sharing. (Ref number:1517688.) Mauritius Spend seven nights this October at the fourstar Ravenala Attitude All Suite Hotel, on an all-inclusive basis, from only €1,839pps. Price includes return flights ex. Dublin, seven nights’ accommodation, taxes and charges, based on two adults sharing. (Ref number:1512507.) For further information on these offers or to book, see www.travelmood. ie, call the team at 01 433 1063, or visit the Travelmood store at Duke Street, Dublin 2, just off Grafton Street.
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TRAVEL
Wave blues away with a staycation Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa in west Cork offers an idylllic setting - and sheer luxury – for a perfect, relaxing staycation
SYLVIA POWNALL Travel Editor
IF THE word ‘staycation’ conjures up memories of rain pounding the roof of your leaky caravan as you lament the lack of WiFi, then maybe you should think again. This summer, why not take in a spot of motor yachting, whale watching or even kayaking under the stars – all within a train ride of the capital? Fancy having a whale of a time? Then head to Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa in west Cork where guests can enjoy a two-night package including a close-up of the abundant marine life. The offer includes two nights in a deluxe room with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, breakfast each morning in the Gulfstream Restaurant, and access to the heated seawater therapy pool, hammam and relaxation areas. While the fresh sea air and stunning coastal views are breath-taking in themselves, you can further explore wild West Cork’s coast with a halfday whale watching trip from Baltimore with Dr Nic Slocum. Guests have been known to spot (right) fin whales, humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins, basking sharks and porpoise, all while taking in the gorgeous scenery. The package
costs from €240PPS. With a stunning location overlooking two magnificent stretches of a Blue Flag beach, just outside the pretty heritage town of Clonakilty, it doesn’t get much more idyllic than this. Visit www.inchydoneyisland.com for more. A summer break at the newly refurbished Radisson Blu Hotel in Athlone is highly recommended, and a motor yacht cruise along the river Shannon with a bottle of bubbles is the perfect way to take in the sights. Afterwards, stroll around the town or sit with something chilled to drink in the Quayside Bar & Lounge or out on the sundrenched terrace
You could have a whale of a time wildlife spotting off the coast
overlooking Athlone Marina. Grab a summer package, including overnight accommodation for two, a delicious buffet breakfast and a choice of romantic activity for two, from €119. Call 090 644 2600 to book (w w w.radissonblu.ie/ hotel-athlone). If you’re feeling brave, why not discover Limerick city under the stars with a date on the River Shannon via The George Hotel? The four-star hotel in the heart of Limerick is the perfect base from which to explore all that the vibrant city has to offer. Start your date night in Da Vincenzos Food & Wine Hall, the hotel’s famous Italian eatery, before making your way to the River Shannon to meet the guides for a unique guided night-time kayak tour. D i s c ove r Limerick’s fascinating history under the stars as you kayak along the river in the darkness soaking up the city’s famous landmarks - including the impressive 13th century medieval King John’s Castle. A Date Night on the River
Shannon package is priced from €153PPS and includes overnight accommodation in one of the stylish and contemporary bedrooms, a three-course dinner in Da Vincenzos Food & Wine
Enjoy a suite break away in the comfort of the Radisson Blu Hotel Athlone (above) or The George Hotel in Limerick
Hall, night kayaking on the River Shannon, a complimentary drink on your return, cupcakes in your bedroom, freshly prepared breakfast the following morning and a late check out. For more information or to book, see www.georgelimerick.com or call 061 460 400.
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FASTNews
Fuel prices drop for fourth month in a row, AA finds PETROL and diesel prices have dropped for the fourth
successive month, according to AA Ireland. On average a litre of petrol now costs 131.9c, while a litre of diesel will cost 119.2c down from June’s prices of 134.3c and 122.2c per litre respectively. The latest drop marks the fourth successive month in which prices have fallen, with the cost of a litre of now at its lowest since December 2016 while diesel is at its least expensive since October of last year. “The last several months have brought good news for motorists when it comes to fuel prices and July has, thankfully, continued that trend,” Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs stated. “With the cost of a litre of fuel continuing to fall prices are moving closer and closer to where they were 12 months ago, with petrol prices just 0.6 per litre more expensive than it was in July 2016, although diesel is still almost 3c up on this time last year. Despite the drop in fuel prices, the motoring organisation has highlighted that the extent to which fuel is taxed in Ireland only serves to make it tougher for people who rely on their car to commute to work.
New Velar SUV unveiled THE fourth member of the Range Rover family, the new Velar, has now arrived in Ireland. The new addition sits between the Evoque and the Sport. This is a new mid-size luxury SUV that claims to deliver new levels of refinement, elegance and technology. There are six engine options for the Velar ranging from the 180bhp 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel with CO2 emissions from only 142g/km, to the powerful 380bhp supercharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine. The Velar comes with all-wheel drive with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics and active locking rear differential ensure all-terrain capability and claims of maximum driver engagement on-road. Built around a light aluminium-intensive body, the Velar stands out with its super-slim Matrix Laser-LED headlights and flush deployable door handles. The Velar has a towing capacity of up to 2,500kg complemented by the Advanced Tow Assist function which allows the driver to reverse the vehicle with trailer attached using the Touch Pro Duo rotary controller, and with no need to counter-steer. Velar is a stunning addition to the Range Rover family and it brings increased choice to new and existing customers in a growing SUV market.
Ford builds on Fiesta success for new future This week, Ford unveiled its new Fiesta model, due to Irish dealerships within a matter of weeks. MICHAEL MORONEY travelled to Valladolid in northern Spain to put the new car through its paces.
FOR Ford, the Fiesta is a 40-year-old success story with the car selling more than 17 million versions since its launch in the 1970’s. For the Irish market, the Fiesta is the second most popular car behind the Focus and the market leader in its segment. Replacing a successful car with a new version always requires some care and that’s why the new Fiesta for 2017 is not a radically changed one. Ford claims to have made multiple changes to the car in terms of engineering for better safety and driver comfort. There are subtle changes to the structure of the car to give it more strength, but it was the improved driving comfort that was most noticeable to me on the winding Spanish roads. I drove the new ST Line version of the Fiesta powered by a 100bhp EcoBoost petrol engine. The three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine was impressively smooth to drive and comes with ample power, even if the torque rating shows a minor drop from the current models. The end result is however a faster car with improved acceleration and marginally better economy. Ford will also offer a new 1.5 litre turbo-diesel engine in the new Fiesta and claim that it’s the most powerful diesel engine ever fitted to the car. The diesel and petrol engines are a match in
Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine Engine power 0 – 100km/hr Economy Fuel Tank Capacity CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Main Service Warranty Entry Price terms of fuel economy showing just how much progress has been made in small petrol engine design. For the Irish market, Ford expects that the new 1.1 litre petrol engine will be the most popular and this will be the entry model in terms of pricing. Ford claims that fuel efficiency is fur ther enhanced with Auto Start Stop technology offered for all engines and Active Grille Shutter for 1.0-litre EcoBoost and 85 PS 1.5litre TDCi engines.
are designed to enhance Fiesta comfort, convenience and safety but they are not available in all 1.0 litre models from the entry 100hp level. 10.5 seconds The Fiesta does come 28m/litre (4.7/100km with a lane departure system and speed limiter or 78.5mpg) on all models, which will 42 litres enhance the car’s oppor97g/km tunity to achieve a Euro A2 €180 NCAP 5 star safety rating 20,000km/12 months when its tested. 5 years /100,000km For those who opt for the full technology pack, €16,650 there is an advanced driver assistance system supportThe Fiesta comes with a ed by two cameras, three new Eco button for man- radars and 12 ultrasonic ual transmissions which sensors. In combination adjusts engine and throt- these are able to monitor tle settings to help drivers 360 degrees around the save even more fuel. vehicle, and scan the road There is also a new six- ahead up to a distance of speed manual gearbox 130 metres, that’s more that I found to be espe- than the length of a footcially easy to use. ball pitch. Ford also claims that the This new Fiesta is the Fiesta delivers the most first Ford to deliver an sophisticated range of enhanced version of driver assistance technolo- Pre-Collision Assist with gies and connectivity fea- Pedestrian Detection. tures of any volume small This system can detect car on sale in Europe. people who are in or near These new technologies the road ahead, or who
may cross the vehicle’s path, using light from the Fiesta’s headlights at night. The system is designed to reduce the severity of some frontal collisions involving vehicles and pedestrians, or help drivers avoid some impacts altogether. Ford will also offer Ford’s Active Park Assist with Perpendicular Parking for the first time in a Fiesta. This helps drivers find suitable spaces and park hands free nose-totail and side-by-side with other cars. This new Fiesta will be sold across four specification levels, Zetec, Titanium, ST Line and the highest specification Vignale models. Entry prices will start at €16,650 for the base 1.1 litre petrol version, which is a mere €200 more than the current model, for a car that’s more spacious, more modern and certainly significantly safer. This Fiesta will retain its perch as the best seller in its segment.
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Keep cool in the heat of summer driving
Picking up the Pace JAGUAR is predicting that its new E-Pace premium compact SUV will become its top-seller, overtaking the larger F-Pace crossover. The new smaller E-Pace is more affordable than its big brother. The E-Pace is Jaguar’s smallest SUV, and it will compete against BMW X1, Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA and forthcoming Volvo XC40. Irish prices for the E-Pace have yet to be announced. The entry E-Pace will be front-wheel drive while higher-spec models will be
offered with all-wheel drive. The standard all-wheel-drive system delivers torque to the rear wheels when needed. It will be powered by Jaguar Land Rover’s Ingenium family of four-cylinder, 2.0-litre engines. This includes three diesels and two petrol engine options. Jaguar’s larger F-Pace was its bestselling car during its fiscal year that ended in March. The company sold 67,955 F-Pace units, accounting for 39% of Jaguar’s overall
GAZETTE
MOTORING
sales of 172,848 cars during the period. The company reported that the F-Pace was the fastest-selling Jaguar in the brand’s history with more than 80,000 sold globally since April of last year. The new E-Pace will be built for all markets except China by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria as all of Jaguar Land Rover’s factories in the UK are at full capacity. It will also be built in Changshu, China, at a plant operated with joint venture partner Chery Automobile.
Summer heat, when it comes also marks the arrival of pressure cooker driving conditions. Many drivers will be taking to the road stressed by holiday deadlines, long traffic queues, overheated cars and hot tempered drivers. Here we provide some advice on dealing with road rage for riders and drivers. Be considerate. You are not the only driver or rider on the road. Swallow your pride and continue with your journey rather than getting caught up in an argument. If you are at fault admit it and apologise. Call the gardai. If you do not feel safe and feel the situation is getting beyond your control, lock your doors and get in contact with the gardai or drive to a busy location. Stay calm. Most incidents on the roads can leave you shaken, especially after a road rage situation. Before continuing your journey, why don’t you try looking for a quiet space to stop where you can breathe deeply and recollect yourself. Don’t react. If you see someone acting in an intimidating or aggressive manner, don’t make eye contact or behave in a manner that could aggravate the situation further. Resist the urge to retaliate as you can never predict how the other driver or rider will respond. Avoid it. Avoid tailgating and responding to rude gestures and remarks. Acknowledging your mistake with a cheery wave will often defuse a situation immediately.
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DUBLINLIFE
CINEMA
DUNKIRK: FILM ABOUT INFAMOUS WW2 RETREAT JOINS THE BEST OF THE GENRE
ReelReviews
A masterful take on the legendary evacuation
IT’S CLOSE to two decades since Christopher Nolan’s debut, Following, and in the years since the director’s career has been spent playing with time and space and messing with the conventions of storytelling in mainstream cinema. He’s reinvented Batman and brought us two epics of hard-science fiction. With Dunkirk (Cert 12A, 105mins), Nolan delves into the annals of history and delivers a war film that will forever stand alongside the genre’s greats. For those not versed in the history behind the film, Dunkirk takes place on and around the beaches of the titular town in May, 1940. The German army has cut off the Allied troops from France, surrounding them on all fronts. With limited air and ground cover, an evacuation of several hundred thousand troops is attempted. Nolan arranges his war epic like a delicately woven tapestry. We follow a number of narrative strands, taking place on
MARTIN MACNAMARA
land, on sea and in the air – much like in the rhetoric of Winston Churchill’s famous speech. The structure itself takes the form of a sort of palindrome, with three separate timelines that eventually meet in the middle – one on land a week before the final evacuation, another a day before it following the journey across the channel, and also events in the air above the chaos.
Evacuation Newcomer Fionn Whitehead escapes fire on the streets of Dunkirk and makes it to the beach, where he teams up with Gibson, another young private, and the pair try to make their way aboard an evacuation vessel. Mr Dawson (a very welcome turn from Mark Rylance) takes his boat across the sea with his son
Peter and a teenage hand, George (Barry Keoghan). O n t h e i r w ay t o Dunkirk, they rescue a shell-shocked soldier (Cillian Murphy) who urges them to turn around back to England. Finally, in the air, three Spitfire pilots fly across the English Channel – another performance from behind a mask for Tom Hardy following his turn as Bane in the final part of Nolan’s Batman trilogy. These are some of Dunkirk’s most exhilarating sequences, engaging the audience while rarely leaving the space or sounds of the cockpit. As these separate narrative lines grind toward the climax like cogs in a machine, they synchronise with a powerful catharsis; an immensely satisfying conclusion and a successfully payoff for what is a considerable narrative experiment for a mainstream war film. Dunkirk delivers deeply human emotion; a remarkable and truly admirable feat for a film with little or no dialogue.
PLANET OF THE APES ‘War’ conclusion wows
AS THE final film in the successfully rebooted franchise, War for the Planet of the Apes (Cert 12A, 140 mins) puts lots of other series and other blockbusters to shame. Its terrific effects take second place to a compelling story, with Andy Serkis turning in another top-notch performance as the charismatic ape leader finally forced to turn against desperate humans.
SPIDERMAN
Still a Homecoming king SPIDEY’s fun reboot is still entertaining audiences in Homecoming (Cert 12A, 133mins), which wisely ditches all the legacy lore which everyone already knows (Uncle Ben’s murder, spider bite, blah blah) and just dumps Peter Parker straight into the action as he learns how to be a superhero, meets some legends, and otherwise does his thing without all the doom and gloom that’s weighed down too many superhero films lately.
The desperate events around the top-secret Allied retreat from Dunkirk are now passing from memory into the history books – but director Christopher Nolan’s film brilliantly brings the chaotic scenes amid the mass evacuation back to noisy, fearful life
The men portrayed on screen struggle with notions of bravery and honour; the very notion of evacuation betrays the sense of duty at the heart of all war propaganda. Accordingly, the cast – Nolan regulars, newcomers and screen Stalwarts such as Kenneth Brannagh – deliver deeply nuanced performances. Composer and frequent Nolan collaborator Hans Zimmer’s score melds
the ticking of a clock with the grinding of machinery as the film counts down toward its ultimate climax. The horizon is always visible in Dunkirk – whether it represents the safety of home, or the doom of the beaches. The enemy’s face is never seen, and is all the more terrifying for it. With practical effects and an enormous cast of extras, Dunkirk evokes the scope of classics of the
genre, creating a sweeping epic that’s yet neatly packaged into an hour and forty-five minutes. You’re unlikely to feel emotion as intensely in any other movie this year – certainly any war movie. Dunkirk stands as Nolan’s best – it’s a remarkable achievement in visceral, historical storytelling and a sure contender for next year’s award season. Verdict: 10/10
IT COMES AT NIGHT
A subtle, brilliant horror THOSE expecting a pretty standard horror will be disappointed, but It Comes at Night (Cert 15A, 92 mins) is one of the smartest and creepiest horror films of recent years. With a virus decimating the world, a small family of survivors hiding out in the woods take in another frightened family – but can they trust each other? Should they? The result will linger in the mind long after the credits.
27 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 25
WeeBytes
Another level of trouble for Crash Bandicoot to hotfoot his way through
Winne the Pooh falls foul of censors EVERYBODY’S favourite bear (sit down, Yogi, and you too, Boo-Boo) probably doesn’t automatically spring to mind as an internet warrior or a figurehead of online freedoms, but the beloved Disney character is now officially banned in China as the latest in a long line of innocuous things running foul of internet censors there. With Chinese netizens constantly engaged in a cat-and-mouse game with censors as they try to find gaps in the Great Firewall of China and get around internet restrictions, poor old Pooh had become a way to refer to Chinese President Xi Jinping, with the two said to look alike. As such, whenever Xi Jinping met another world leader, Chinese netizens would invariably respond with side-by-side comparison pics and memes of, say, Xi Jinping walking beside Obama versus Pooh and Tigger, and so on. Pooh is now banned, with the plump and pleasant honey-loving character a persona-non-grata (or bearsona-non-grata) in the country. One wonders what censors here might have done some time back if we’d had a cartoon bear called Biffo knocking about ...
A furly challenging reboot IT’S official – trying to make a goofy marsupial jump from pillar to pillar while a runaway boulder threatens to flatten it really isn’t as easy as it sounds, or as it used to be. That’s the formal verdict of the newly released Crash Bandicoot N.Sane Trilogy (PlayStation 4),
with tech watchers and the remake’s developers alike pointing out that Crash, the orange star of the game with a knack of getting into trouble, doesn’t quite control the same way as he used to. In short, although the rebooted game looks better than ever, and better than back around Crash’s late 1990s heyday, the controls (and collision detection) have been
SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com
updated for modern tech – and, yes, his jumps are every so slightly trickier now, adding an extra level of fun (or infuriation) to the cult platformer. Originally one of the PlayStation’s early mascots and figureheads, the wildly popular platformer had a lot of games for many years, with Crash increasingly wedged into some bizarre games, to diminishing returns. However, with his style of retro ‘screenrunner’
Elena Fisher watches Nathan Drake blunder through Crash Bandicoot on her old PlayStation - the Uncharted 4 easter egg that hinted that a remake was on the way
games largely falling out of favour, nothing much was seen of Crash for many years until a cameo appearance in 2016’s brilliant Uncharted 4. A brief in-game section with lead character
Nathan Drake playing Crash Bandicoot on his girlfriend’s original PlayStation – with both commenting on the gameplay as he/you played the game – hinted that Crash was somewhere knocking
about in development. Et voila – the recently released upgraded, rebooted collection of his first three adventures. Apart from Crash’s slightly adjusted controls, it’s a very faithful upgrade of the original games, giving Crash and his worlds additional detail and some subtle effects, affecting everything from the camera to lighting effects. Vicarious Visions have created an excellent remaster of the series, with the fun reboot doing well – while summer is a quiet time for games releases, there are still some great games out there, but the likes of the excellent Switch title, Splatoon 2, have
The Tweeters send their regards to Ed SHANE DILLON
ONE of the biggest tech stories of the past week involved Tweet machines everywhere throwing up plumes of smoke and showers of sparks as they tried to cope with the huge reaction to Ed Sheeran popping up on TVshow du jour, Game of Outwitting and Murdering All Your Enemies (or Game of Thrones, for short). The, ahem, enthusiastic response online to young Sheeran’s campfire ditty and brief mumblings as he and some other House Lannister footsoldiers innocently crossed paths with
baby-faced traveller (and one-woman-murder-machine) Arya Stark suggested that a lot of viewers suddenly had someone they hated even more than the late Ramsay Bolton (or the late High Sparrow, or the late Walder Frey, or the late – well, there’s a long list of late characters who’ve been bumped off). The show has become a stalwart of fierce online debate, analysis, response and discussion in a way that few TV or other cultural creations can achieve, becoming much more than just a pop-culture reference for Millennials or fans.
As such, the expected cameo of the singer in the long-awaited opening episode of the new series sparked a lot of intense reactions and criticism online, with Ed’s brief role – following in the footsteps of several musicians who’ve also appeared throughout the series – overshadowing reactions to the episode itself. One feels a bit sorry for the campfire crooner – at the time of writing, it was reported that Ed had temporarily closed his Twitter profile, fed up of the sea of intense abuse about his brief role which the show’s producers had set up as a surprise for
his massive fan, Maisie Williams (Arya). Whatever your views of Ed’s music – let’s just say I’m not a fan, and leave it at that – it’s silly and unfair that anyone gets hounded out of an online presence just because they’ve done something as mundane as making a brief cameo in a TV show. While it’s unlikely Ed’ll give up the day job to become a Lannister henchman, you can bet your kingdom that the show will keep sparking lots of online reactions.
been flattened by Crash’s charge to the top of the charts, boulder in tow. T he games industry is just as keen to get remakes and reboots out there as the cinema and television sectors, with older gamers likely to be interested in any reboot, while such content is new to younger gamers. Either way, if done well, such reboots are a reliable way to steer a character – and its developer and publisher – towards a nice pot of gold at the end of the release rainbow. Whether you’re an oldskool Crash fan, or this is your first run-in with the runaway rascal, it’s a fun, colourful return to form for him – just mind the gaps as you jump ... Ed Sheeran: singer, bit part actor, and now a wandering Lannister henchman
26 FINGAL GAZETTE 27 July 2017
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SPORT
FastSport TOHILL DOUBLE IN SUPER FINAL: DUBLIN’S double European Rallycross class champion Derek Tohill had a great weekend at Mondello Park, with his Parts for Cars Fiesta taking top place in the Super Final on both days ahead of Noel Greene’s Mirage, and also finishing third each time in the Supercar Finals, which were rounds of the British Rallycross Championship. London based Limerickman Ollie O’Donovan finishing as runner up in the main reace on Saturday but his Focus tangled with another car in the semi-final and he didn’t qualify for the final, leaving current points leader Oliver Bennett to take second place after leading for half of the race. Tohill also had problems in his semi-final and had to start the final from the back of the grid, but to the delight of the large partisan crowd, he made a sensational getaway and was up to fourth place by the end of the opening lap, picking up another position during the remaining laps.
CRICKET: FINALS DRAWS NEW LEVEL OF CROWDS TO THE ALAN MURRAY CUP
Clontarf bat off Pembroke to land Leinster T20 victory
sport@dublingazette.com
CLONTARF emerged victorious from the LHK Insurance [Alan Murray] T20 League in a very close encounter with Pembroke last weekend in front of a large crowd in the ground and also via a live Youtube stream for the first time. In terms of the play, the best was kept until the last as Tarf won a pulsating final by just four runs. Batting first, as all winners on the final day of action did, Clontarf posted a total of 149/8 in their 20 overs. They might have expected more following a 71 run second wicket partnership between Andrew Poynter (52) and Brad Barnes (47). At 115/3 in the 15th over, a total around 165 might have been expected. But excellent fielding and slow bowling from Jack Balbirnie (3/16), Fiachra Tucker (0/27) and Benn Hoey (1/23) ensured that there was a very chase-able total on the board. Pembroke started well with a 55-run opening partnership in eight overs between Andrew Balbirnie (56) and Theo Lawson (26) . Balbirnie then
Clontarf celebrate their success. Picture: Deryck Vincent
shared in another 55-run partnership with Lorcan Tucker (26) which brought the score to 110 with the best part of five overs to go. But what should have proved a relatively comfortable chase proved to be anything but. Excellent death bowling by John Mooney and ‘Ropu’ Islam put massive pressure on the Pembroke batting and
in the end they came up short only managing 145/5. Earlier in the day, the finalists had reasonably easy wins over Merrion for Pembroke and The Hills v Clontarf. In the first match, Pembroke posted was seemed at the time a fairly ordinary 144/4. That they got this score was thanks again to runs from Lawson (51) and Balbirnie
(44). Tom Stanton (2/19) was the pick of the Merrion bowlers. But, in reply, Merrion’s top order never really fired and only John Anderson (44) managed to get above a run a ball. Ryan Hopkins led the Pembroke attack with the best bowling performance of the day (4/19) but it was a team effort with the five bowlers
used all playing their part. Merrion ended up 27 runs short but in truth they never really looked like chasing down the total. In the second semi-final, Tarf made 165/7 batting first thanks to a typically belligerent 59 (43 balls) from Robert Forrest. Best of the bowling came from Nazeer Shoukat (2/18) with his usual accurate spell. The response by The Hills never really got going and only Sean Terry (71) mastered the conditions and the Clontarf bowling. The most economical four overs of the day came from Mooney (1/13) and Islam (3/17). The finals weekend completed the first season of a new format for the competition with three weekends of group matches, a midweek quarterfinal and subsequent finals day in a mid-season block. T he setup was par t of attempts to raise the profile of the domestic T20 competition with the hope of knock-on success for the Irish national team, an area where they have struggled in recent years.
Leinster Lightning extinguished by the North West BERNARD DUFF sport@dublingazette.com
Leinster captain John Anderson
HAVING won ten out of the 12 trophies across all formats since 2013, the Leinster Lightning cricketers just needed to win on Friday against the North West Warriors to secure 2017’s T20 Trophy. However the men from Derry had other plans as Leinster were comprehensively outplayed in the T20 Inter-Pro at Merrion Cricket Club. In a series which has predominantly been one-way traffic in Leinster’s favour, the North West silenced the home fans as
Leinster stuttered to 26/3 off the six over powerplay. Warriors’ captain Andrew McBrine cleverly shuffled his bowlers throughout the innings. All told, McBrine employed eight bowlers in the twenty overs. The stand out was pace bowling of Craig Young who returned figures of five for 22. Although he wrapped up the tail by hitting the stumps twice in the 20th over, the damage was done earlier. Leinster’s powerful opener Andrew Balbirnie was bowled in Young’s first over for two. In Young’s second over, Simi Singh lofted the
ball to third man as he was misjudged Young’s pace. Later, in the 17th over, Young removed George Dockrell for 10 after Dockrell hadn’t cleared the mid-wicket fielder Stuart Thompson. All out for 118 meant early wickets were needed for Leinster. However Leinster captain John Anderson employed no catchers hence no pressure was exerted on the North West batsmen. They had freedom to play their shots so it was only down to a runout by Kevin O’Brien that gave Leinster their first wicket.
O’Brien neatly ran out David Rankin but, at 33/1, no comeback would happen. The two left handers Stuart Thomson and Graham Kennedy came together at 52/2 and comfortably made the game safe. A towering six over long-on by Kennedy off Dockrell in the 16th over to take the score to 98/2 was effectively the killing blow in a one-sided match. The result means that the North West cut Leinster’s lead to four points ahead of the last T20 round in the series, a tricky trip to Cork verses the Munster Reds on August 11.
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Strong Dublin crew named in women’s rugby squad IRELAND’S WOMEN’S rugby team have announced their full panel ahead of the home world cup, taking place in Dublin’s UCD and in Belfast next month. The Irish side have been making confident noises ahead of the tournament, and the 28-player panel is a strong one, seeing players returning from injury to take their place at the summer showdown. Jenny Murphy, pictured, a centre who plays her rugby with Old Belvedere (and traveled to the 2014 tournament in France, in which Ireland finished fourth) will return from injury having been cut from an earlier squad back in June. Similarly, prop Ailis Egan who also plays at Belvedere and saw herself dispatched back in June, returns to strengthen an experienced final 28, containing only a single uncapped player. Niamh Briggs captains the side, despite having been away from the Ireland panel since the November internationals, also due to injury. The other Dublin-linked players to make the final 28 are forwards Ciara Cooney (of Railway Union), Paula Fitzpatrick (St Mary’s College), Cliodhna Moloney (Railway Union), multi-sport superstar Lindsay Peat (Railway Union), MarieLouise Reilly (Old Belvedere) and Sophie Spence (Old Belvedere). In the backs, they’ll be joined by Jamie Deacon (Blackrock College), Katie Fitzhenry (Blackrock College), Nora Stapleton (Old Belvedere) and Hannah Tyrrell (Old Belvedere). At the launch event for the tournament, coach Tom Tierney said “The players have been training consistently over the past number of months, and we have had a preparation that is far more comprehensive than previous campaigns.” “The anticipation and excitement has been building steadily amongst the players and the program has provided us every opportunity, so it is now up to us to put our best foot forward during this campaign.” “The opportunity to play in a World Cup on home soil is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and while we are in a tough pool with Australia, Japan and our six nations rivals France, I am sure the players will rise to the occasion in front of their home fans.” Ireland’s Pool C games will take place at UCD Bowl, with the side facing a tough group against Australia, Japan and France.
Sothern and O’Flanagan lead double celebrations The Irish men’s and women’s hockey teams moved a giant leap closer to 2018 World Cup qualification in the past week as they both produced outstanding runs in Johannesburg STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@dublingazette.com
SHANKILL’S Alan Sothern scored the crucial goal that saw the Irish men’s hockey team qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1990 as they continue to push the boundaries for the sport. Sothern also scored a crucial goal in the Olympic qualifying process when Ireland beat Pakistan in a 1-0 victory and he repeated the feat at last Saturday’s World League Semi-Final, landing the goal that beat New Zealand to ensure a fifth place finish at the competition. It was the first time Ireland had ever beaten the blacksticks in 13 attempts and means Ireland will go to the 2018 World Cup in Bhubaneswar, India. Sothern was joined in the team by fellow Dubliners Shane O’Donoghue, Stephen Cole, Stuart Loughrey and Jamie Car.
“It was a win built on character and defence,” coach Craig Fulton said of the performance. “We wanted to come away with qualification and that’s really pleasing, it was a great squad effort.” Ireland started well with Shane O’Donoghue drawing a top block from Richard Joyce early on before having to endure sustained kiwi pressure. Hugo Inglis rattled David Harte’s near post with an absolute rocket in the first half while Hayden Phillips put a gilt-edged chance wide after the big break. By that stage, their numbers had been trimmed further with Eugene Magee going off with an ankle injury, joining John McKee – a broken collar bone victim – on the sidelines. Harte produced a double save as Ireland threw bodies on the line at regular intervals to protect their clean sheet before
nabbing their winner with 11 minutes to go. Chris Cargo’s cross was booted away by goalkeeper Devon Manchester but only as far as Sothern and the poacher supreme flicked in his third goal of the tournament. From there, they showed the battling defensive qualities that ser ved them so well against France two days earlier to get them over the line and into the World Cup. Earlier the same day, the Irish women got a huge boost in their World Cup qualification bid when Railway Union’s Grace O’Flanagan came off the bench to make a crucial penalty save in a 2-1 win over India. That turning point, though, came when number one goalkeeper Ayeisha McFerran was sent for a ten-minute suspension. O’Flanagan’s first act was to save Rani Rampal’s penalty stroke to prevent
India going 2-0 up after Gurjit Kaur’s early opening goal “It was some way to come onto the pitch and not how I expected!” O’Flanagan said afterwards. “The girls put in a superb effort throughout the match. I think we dominated throughout and I think we deserved it.” Her coach Graham Shaw agreed: “The performance from the first minute to the last was superb,” he said. “The dominance didn’t show in the first half but this team showed incredible character to go down to ten men and create so many chances. We showed that resilience to keep fighting and eventually getting too great goals.” The side featured a large Dublin-based contingent with goalscorers
Lizzie Colvin (Loreto) and Katie Mullan (UCD) turning the game around in the closing quarter. They lined out with Hermes-Monkstown’s N i k k i Ev a n s , A n n a O’Flanagan, Chloe Watkins and Sinead Loughran, UCD’s Deirdre Duke, Lena Tice and Gillia Pinder, Loreto’s Hannah Matthews, and Muckross’s Nicci Daly. In terms of the World Cup, they must now await the outcome of the continental championships over the next few months but odds are in their favour that Ireland will make the final cut. “It’s huge. This team deserve it,” Shaw added. “There is no better group of girls. They work incredibly hard on a small budget; they are part-time, working full-time and so deserve everything they get.”
Ireland’s women mob Lizzie Colvin, bottom right, Dublin trio Stuart Loughrey, Alan Sothern and Shane O’Donoghue celebrate
following her winning goal against India. Picture: Jan
Ireland’s qualification for the 2018 Hockey World Cup . Picture: Jan Kruger/Getty Images
Kruger/Getty Images
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FASTSport
ATHLETICS: MSB MAN EDGES OUT RAHENY’S SITTUK AT FINGAL 10K
Howth’s Hopkins wins European laser title HOWTH sailor Aoife Hopkins landed European Under-21 laser championship glory as part of an Irish one-two in Douarnenez, France. She won each of her last five races to finish with an immaculate total of just 10 points from the eight that counted towards her total. She finished the regatta with three firsts in a dominant performance. Aisling Keller took second place overall. Coach Sean Evans had this to say about the event: “In a week with various conditions, the Irish team showed their class to climb to the top, showing dominant form in the windier conditions. “Aoife Hopkins sealed the championship with two races to spare with Aisling Keller doing the same for second place.” She was almost instantly on the road as she now heads to Belgium for the world championships having already claimed the Irish national title earlier this summer.
Incredible triple for Marie Falvey MALAHIDE Golf Club member Marie Falvey set a special record in this the club’s 125th Anniversary year as she won her third All-Ireland Mother and Daughter Foursomes title at Donabate GC, playing with her daughter Deirdre Sheehan (Kanturk GC). In 1981, Falvey won
the inaugural “Freddie Moran” cup with her mother Marie. In 2015, she won her second All-Ireland Mother and Daughter Foursomes with daughter Ciara Smith (Malahide GC). Fred Moran captain Malahide GC 2012 and son of Freddie Moran presented the “Freddie Moran” perpetual cup to Marie and Deirdre at a well-attended ceremony at Donabate.
John Coghlan leads home the field at the Fingal 10k last weekend. Picture: Alison O’Hanlon
Coghlan a cut above in Swords sport@dublingazette.com
METRO St Brigid’s John Coghlan put in a gutsy performance today to win his first SSE Airtricity Fingal 10K in 30.38 edging out Raheny’s Freddy Sittuk. He was second, just seven seconds back in 30.45 with Peter Somba of Dunboyne AC third with 31.27. The top three broke away from the rest of the elite field in the first kilometre and went through five kilometres in 15.13. At the 7km mark, it was down to two, with Coughlan and Sittuk wo r k i n g aw ay f r o m
Somba, who eventually had to battle with Tomas Fitzpatrick (Tallaght AC) for third. Speaking af ter the race, winner John Coghlan said; “I am happy with that result. It was a tough enough race. I really had to dug in at the 8-9km mark and I only started to pull away from Freddy in the last kilometre.” In the women’s race, there was a dominant win by Gladys Ganiel (Belfast Harriers AC) crossing the line in 35.33, over a minute ahead of 2015 winner Niamh Develin (DSD AC) in 36:47.
HAMMER-TIME McNicholl ends eighth on national athletics stage FINGALLIANS’ Jack McNicholl in action in the men’s hammer on day one of the Irish Life Health National Senior Track and Field Championships at Morton Stadium in Santry last weekend. He had a best throw of 47.88 metres in the competition which saw him finish in eighth place overall.He was part of a large Fins team with Sarah Murray, Bronwyn Keogh and Pascal Ryan in the 100m, Anne-Marie Torsney in the discus along with a 4x100m relay team. Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile
Denise Logan (BHAC) took third place in 38:01. Ganiel took to the lead early in the race and was never in danger of being caught. Speaking af ter the race, she said: “I got everything out of the race that I was hoping for, it was a good hard run. I always enjoy taking part in the race series, it is so well organised, it’s first class.” She added: “This race is a key part of my preparation as I am seeking to secure Commonwealth Games qualification and selection for the Marathon.” Over 4,000 runners
took part today in the fifth SSE Airtricity Fingal 10K, an increase of 10% on 2016. The second of the race series, the Frank Duffy 10 Mile will take place in the Phoenix Park on August 26. The Dublin Half Marathon will take place in a new venue in 2017, the Newbridge Demesne in Donabate, Co. Dublin on Saturday September 23. The finale in the series, the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon, which is now sold out, will take place on Sunday, October 29 which is also the Athletics Ireland’s National Championships. The result continues
a fine couple of weeks for MSB athletes on the national stage. At the juvenile nationals, the club’s Nkem Onwumereh was in the Under-14B 200m where he eased into the final with 25.16 in the heat and ran slightly quicker in the final with a time of 25.12 to take the bronze medal. James Bolton, in the U-14B 1,500m had a very solid performance in a time of 4.44.85 to come in eighth place. Robert Rebegea, running in the U-16B 1,500m, ran a great race to finish in 10th place in a time of 4.31.92
27 July 2017 FINGAL GAZETTE 31
GAZETTE
THAT LOVING FEELING
Fins see off St Brigid’s to land football cup
CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS
FINGALLIANS won the Loving Cup last Wednesday evening as a pair of goals in the opening 15 minutes and a dominant second half put them on course for victory at Lawless Park against St Brigid’s. They built up a 2-4 to 0-4 lead very early in the time before Brigid’s got back within two points. But Fins blew them away in the second half, running out 4-15 to 1-8 winners.
LOVING Cup: Our Division 3 footballers
to fingallians@gmail.com. We’ll try to get
collected the first silverware of the
it on the Facebook page.
season, beating St Brigid’s in midweek in the final. AFL3: Saturday, a home fixture v Kilmacud Crokes at 6.30pm. The football school of excellence will be run by Paul Flynn from August 8-11. It is open to girls and boys from U-13 to Minor. There will also be numerous special inter county guest coaches attending.
CAMOGIE: TIPP AWAIT IN ALL-IRELAND QUARTER-FINAL
All-Ireland quarter-final tickets: Applications for Dublin tickets are been taken at the club bar. The game will be played on Saturday, August 5. Ticket applications close this Thursday, July 27 at 10pm. The gym will be closed this week and will re-open on Monday, July 31.
Dublin downed by Cats but not out SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
Kilkenny 3-14 Dublin 0-8 sport@dublingazette.com
DUBLIN reached the quarter-finals of the Liberty Insurance All-Ireland camogie championship, despite falling to a 3-14 to 0-8 loss to Kilkenny at Tom Ryall Park in Kilkenny last weekend. The Cats went into the game as huge favourites so the result came as no surprise but Dublin manager David Herity will be disappointed with a number of errors his side made to help the reigning champions across the line.
Kilkenny got off to a devastating start and held a 2-5 to 0-1 lead as early as the 17th minute. They fully deserved their lead but Dublin will be disappointed with the manner in which they conceded the goals. The teams exchanged scores early on – Dublin’s coming through Aisling Maher - but Miriam Walsh and Danielle Morrissey punished mistakes by Dublin’s defence by palming efforts into the back of the net. Katie Power was in storming form for the home side and sent over two great points, with
Denise Gaule and Anna Farrell also getting their names on the score sheet. Maher managed to hit four more points during the remainder of the first half but when a string of Kilkenny points were followed up by another Walsh goal, the Cats took a 3-8 to 0-5 lead into the break. Kilkenny had their halfbackline of Claire Phelan, Anne Dalton and Grace Walsh to thank for the way they prevented the Dublin forwards from getting a foothold in the game, as hardly a ball went in the direction of the full-forward line.
The sky blues came out in the second half and gave a much better account of themselves and the errors of the first half were eradicated. Faye McCarthy kicked a free for the Dubs in the 34th minute before Ali Twomey rewarded her teammate’s pressure with a great score. Dublin were industrious but they could only notch one more point during the remainder of the game through a McCarthy free, while Kilkenny saw Meighan Farrell, Julieann Malone, Morrissey and Walsh all hit points.
U-10 players. It takes place every Monday and Thursday night from 6.15pm to 7.15pm in Holywell. New players and members are welcome to join in. No Bootcamp this week with Noel. Fingal 10km Road Race: Well done to the large number of Fins members who completed the annual 10km through the streets on Swords on Sunday morning. Kelloggs Cul Camp: Monday, August 14 to Friday, August 18. Lotto: Numbers: 3, 16, 18, 21 and 28. We had two winners, Amanda Rodgers and David McGee. The jackpot on Tuesday evening will be €2,264.
Check it out on Facebook - Far-
Fingallians extends deepest sym-
flung Fingallians: We are getting a good
pathy to the Byrne family on the death
response to our Far-flung Fingallians
of Kevin and the Cassidy family on the
series. Remember when going on holiday
death of Donal’s mother. Ar dheis De go
to pack your Fins gear and send a photo
raibh a hAnam dilis.
ST FINIAN’S
The Dublin camogie side have an All-Ireland quarter final to look forward to. Picture: Inpho
Summer hurling: Join the fun with summer hurling for all our U-8, U-9 and
The AHL4 team were narrowly beaten
required to be updated on the new web-
by local rivals Fingallians in Ridgewood
site to pro.stfiniansswords.dublin@gaa.
on Saturday. Hard luck also to the AHL9
ie or James.Freeman2@mail.dcu.ie.
hurling team who were beaten by Na
A word of thanks to PRO James Free-
Fianna in the Junior F Championship
man and the other club officers involved
quarter final on Thursday.
for all of their hard work and effort in
Well done to the Gaelic for Mothers
getting the new website launched which
and others team who represented the
took many months in planning and also
club in the Leinster blitz in Athlone this
to the executive committee for their
weekend.
support for this project. Thanks also to
A busy week ahead for the Adult Foot-
Progressive Credit Union www.progres-
ball teams. The AFL8 team play Naomh
sivecu.ie/ for sponsoring the website
Olaf at home on Sunday, July 30 at 11am.
redevelopment.
The AFL4 team play namesakes St Fin-
A reminder that the annual golf clas-
ian’s Newcastle at home on Saturday,
sic, proudly sponsored by Sky Handling
July 29 at 6.30pm.
Partner, will be held in Forest Little Golf
Please email your orders for the All-
Club on Friday, August 4. It is €240 per
Ireland football championship football
team, the price also includes a meal.
quarter final Saturday, August 5 to
Contact James Devlin on 086 400 0324,
stfiniansgaaclubswords@gmail.com or
Shay Leathem on 087 217 2215, Alan
text Maree McDonough on 087 617 6687
McGrath on 087 652 9429, John Moore on
by 8pm on Thursday, July 27. NB – only
086 064 3626 to reserve a tee or sponsor
fully paid up adult members and Juve-
a hole/tee or box.
niles playing on adult teams can order tickets through the club.
A reminder also that the second summer camp will take place Tuesday,
Ticket price details are on the Club
August 15 to Friday, August 18. The third
Facebook page, the new club website
camp will take place Tuesday, August 22
and have been circulated to club mem-
to Friday, August 25. Online payments
bers by email.
can be made under the Information drop
St Finians GAA Club extends sincere
down menu on the newwebsitewww.
sympathies to the Pierce family on
stfinians.com. Forms are also available
the untimely passing of U-7 girls coach
and payments made in the club office.
Niamh Pierce (nee Hallissy). Niamh’s
Forms can also be downloaded from the
three children Sean, Kate and Mary
Club website.
also play with the club. Niamh was also
Bernie’s Aerobics and Fitness classes
a teacher in Holy Family National school.
which take place in the Clubhouse Activi-
Ar dheis De go raibh a h-anam dilis.
ty Room on Monday, Wednesday and Fri-
The new mobile friendly website www.
day evenings will resumethis week. For
stfinians.com was launched. Please send
Further details, please contact Bernie at
any feedback or information which is
085 135 9766.
GAZETTESPORT
ALL OF YOUR FINGAL SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31
SAILING AWAY: Hopkins adds brilliant European win to Irish laser title with series of bullets at French event P30
JULY 27 - AUG 2, 2017
TARF’S BULLS ON PARADE: North Dublin side bat off the challenge of Pembroke P29
Ports’ FAI Cup storm Portmarnock AFC celebrating their success last season
Portmarnock AFC land marquee Senior Cup date with St Pat’s Athletic as manager Willie O’Leary hopeful his club can host the game at Paddy’s Hill
KARL GRAHAM
sport@dublingazette.com
PORTMARNOCK are set for another milestone event as the north Dublin side were drawn at home to St Patrick’s Athletic in the first round of the FAI Senior Cup. The side are fresh off the back of their third promotion in a row to book their place in the LSL Sunday Senior division for next season, and now have a plum tie on the weekend of August 13 to help them prepare for their first game in the league the following weekend. “We are delighted,” Portmarnock manager Willie O’Leary told GazetteSport. “It is obviously a big day for the club and we are,
obviously, up against it because we are still in preseason. They are mid season and are a professional setup as well! “Overall, it’s great though. Everyone at the club is delighted because it is a big boost for the new season and we get to play top class opposition as well.”
Timing The timing of the fixture is not ideal for Portmarnock as the gulf in fitness between the sides that would already exist is heightened by them being at different stages of their campaign, but O’Leary hopes his players can still give a good account of themselves. “As I said, it is still part of our preseason
because our league doesn’t start until a week after so we are obviously aiming for that. We will be up against it with these so you have to moderate your expectations as well. You want to do well and your players to not have any fear; that’s why you enter these competitions. “We have a lot of players who are ex-League of Ireland. Brian Kane played for Bray [Wanderers], Graham Rusk played with UCD, Drogheda [United] and Athlone [Town], Phillip Rusk played with Bohemians, Ross Moran was with [Shamrock] Rovers and Gareth Whelan was with Drogheda so we’ve lads with experience who played at that level. They’re not all rookies in that respect.” O’Leary is also hoping that the home draw
will be sanctioned by the FAI so the whole community can get involved in the occasion. “The home draw is subject to being passed by the FAI. The pitch is immaculate, absolutely no question about that, it’s just the other surrounding things. “We’d like to think we will get it over the line and play them at Paddy’s Hill and we’ll be having a meeting with the FAI about it this week. Ideally, I’d like it to be played in the middle of the community and if we got support from the local community as well. “I know our neighbours Malahide have done it before against Bohs, Dundalk, St Patricks Athletic and Sligo so there is precedent there.”