Lucan

Lucan GAZET TE FREE

‘Timberlake and Diaz learn some life lessons in Bad Education’ CINEMA: P24.

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INSIDE: Lucan Golf Club celebrations at Captains’ events P10

June 30, 2011

GOING SWIMMINGLY: The Riptide Movement support Bon Jovi at gig P3

A prehistoric moment: Tyke meets dinosaur WITH keeper Calvin Doherty in

Soccer: Lucan United target promotion in new season Page 30

charge, two-year-old Jack Keogh was ready to take a cautious peek at a “baby dryosaur” at Lucan Superquinn recently, while Shane and Erica looked on.

The toddler met his baby dinosaur counterpart as part of a visit by the Erth Dinosaur Petting Zoo, which was visiting the busy supermarket to tell locals about their upcoming show at the RDS, featuring a range of dinosaurs.

Picture: Peter Doyle

Full Gallery on Pages 8-9

Sports Awards: June’s nominees are announced inside Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ............8-9, 10 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Labour’s Catriona new Mayor of SDCC Only second time Party councillor gets the top job

Q PAUL HOSFORD

A LUCAN councillor has been elected Mayor of South Dublin County Council (SDCC) for only the second time her party has held the role.

Labour’s Catriona Jones took up the chain of office last week, vowing to promote

South Dublin county’s identity, and achieve better outcomes for citizens and members of the business community.

Formerly a councillor for the Tallaght area, Cllr Jones made the decision to run in Lucan in 2009, joining Eamon Tuffy on the Labour ticket.

Speaking this week, Cllr

Tuffy said: “Shortly after she was elected, Catriona kept a particular promise she made to the people of Lucan, selling the family home in Kiltipper and moving to Lucan.

“She has worked hard as a councillor and brought a lot of insight to her work.”

Full Story on Page 5

2 LUCAN GAZETTE 30 June 2011

PARKS

Proposed Dog area COUNCILLOR William Lavelle has expressed his support for the provision of a dedicated dogs’ area in Griffeen Valley Park.

He says: “I am generally supportive of dog owners’ requests for a dedicated dogs’ area. I raised this matter at last month’s Lucan area committee meeting.”

In response to Lavelle’s question the Parks Department advised: “Following a recent review, an area of Griffeen Valley Park has been identified as an ideal location for the provision of a dog run. It is proposed, subject to securing the necessary resources, to proceed with this project later this year.”

ST JOSEPH’S ECO UNESCO ceremony

EDUCATION: MINISTER’S DECISION IS WELCOMED

Two new schools for Lucan Local Minister Frances Fitzgerald presented the award

Students’ award THE efforts of students from St Joseph’s College in Lucan were rewarded last week, when they were presented with an ECO UNESCO young environ-

mentalist Award.

Local Minister Frances Fitzgerald presented the award to the local pupils.

“I was delighted to open the ceremony for the ECO

UNESCO Young Environmentalist awards in the Mansion House and pleased to see my own area represented among the winners,” said Fitzgerald, who is the Minister for Children.

“Students from Lucan’s St Joseph’s College were presented with an award in recognition of their efforts to make Ireland a greener country. The Young Environmentalist awards are a great way of creating

awareness of the need to be more environmentally friendly and, as Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, I look forward to supporting this initiative,” Frances said.

ECO-UNESCO’s Young Environmentalist Awards is an all-Ireland environmental awards programme that recognises and rewards young people who raise environmental awareness and improve the environment.

THERE was good news for pupils and parents this week as two new schools were announced for Lucan.

The Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairi Quinn TD, announced that 20 new primary schools and 20 new postprimary schools are to be established across the country in the next six years, with a post primary in Lucan South and a primary school in Lucan.

Announcing the new schools, the Minister said: “My Department is forecasting an increase of over 45,050 primary pupils and 24,900 post-primary pupils by the start of the 2017/18 school year.

“In order to meet the needs of our growing population of schoolgoing children, we will have to establish 40 new schools, as well as extending a number of existing schools.”

Of the 40 new schools, 17 will be in the Dublin area with a further 12 in the commuter belt of Wicklow, Kildare, Meath and Louth.

The news was welcomed by local politicians, with Derek Keating TD delighted that Lucan South will receive a postprimary facility.

“There has been a campaign for this for some time and I am delighted with the news that the school will be delivered between 2012 and 2017.

“It is a very positive move and one that will

benefit the residents of Lucan. I’m glad that we all have played a part in the early stages of planning for the facility,” said Deputy Keating, His party colleague, Frances Fitzgerald TD, echoed Keating’s praise, saying that the announcements will take pressure off the over-exerted Lucan schools network.

“I am delighted, that after just over 100 days in Government, I am welcoming news of a brand new primar y school for Lucan. This is huge progress for children and parents throughout this area,” said the Minister.

“Lucan has been facing a school places crisis and this new government is introducing positive measures to address this.

Minister Quinn has committed to delivering on the new Lucan South second-level school and has prioritised Lucan today by announcing a new primary school for our area.

“At Cabinet level, I have been pushing for progress on a number of Lucan primary schools and Minister Quinn has confirmed to me that progress is being made for St Andrew’s NS, Gaelscoil Eiscir Riada and Scoil Mhuire on Chapel Hill. The council have gone to Part 8, planning permission stage, on the site for Esker Educate Together and it is hoped that this school will be relocated for September, 2012,” said Minister Fitzgerald.

30 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 3

MUSIC Local band performed in front of 35,000 people WAGES: WORKERS AFFECTED BY REVIEWS Low-paid workers are hit hardest by proposed changes

The 35,000 Bon Jovi fans in the RDS is the biggest that Lucan band, The Riptide Movement, have ever played for.

Lucan rock band supported Bon Jovi Q LAURA WEBB news@gazettegroup.com

THE Riptide Movement is hoping to convert some of the 35,000 fans that flocked to see Bon Jovi after they supported the multi-platinum selling artist at the RDS this week.

The rock band, from Lucan are together since 2006 and have travelled near and far to perform their own material to crowds, but none as big as the stadium gig in the RDS, and it’s all thanks to a competition.

Nova FM and Aiken promotions were on the hunt to find a support band for the Bon Jovi gig on June 29 at the RDS.

A couple of weeks after entering the competition the four-piece band were called to play live in front of judges, and despite being thousands of miles from home, the band got there and are now very happy they did.

“Up to 300 bands applied and they whittled it down to five to play a live performance, and we were one of them. We were in France at the time touring over there. So we drove over to Charles De Gaulle airport, left our van there, flew over, did the gig, and flew back the next morning to finish the gigs there,” Drummer Gar Byrne told the Gazette before the big event.

“It cost us €1,600 for the flights, but we’d seen an opportunity and we just said we would chance it, it’s well worth it now. It is 35,000 people, so, hopefully, it will take us on a bit further. It will be the biggest we have played to. It is our first stadium, so it is a bit nerve-wracking.”

Not only is the band supporting Bon Jovi, but they were also in a line-up in the London Feis where Bob Dylan is headlining.

“We headed over there.

Looking at the line up and seeing your name on the bill with Bob Dylan, it’s just great. London Feis is like an Irish festival in London, with Van Morisson, Thin Lizzy, Christie

Moore, to name a few.

“This is a good year for us, and we hope to build our profile so we can release our second album this year. We are just in the middle of putting the finishing touches to it, so we hope to release it later; Hopefully, we can make a few fans out of the [Bon Jovi] gig,” he laughs.

The Riptide Movement is made up of vocalist and guitarist Mal Tuohy, guitarist John Dalton, bassist and harmonica player Ger Mc Garry and drummer Gar Byrne.

The band will also gig in many Irish festivals including, Oxegen and Electric Picnic. This year they have also made two

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Gender quotas are unconstitutional DEAR EDITOR,

MINISTER for the Environment Phil Hogan has claimed that women and men that oppose gender quotas are part of “a conservative culture”.

As a woman that opposes gender quotas, I think it is unfair of the Minister to pigeonhole those that disagree with him on this issue.

He should respect the fact that those women and men that oppose

gender quotas do want to see more women running for election.

The reason I oppose gender quotas is because I am opposed to the idea that the way to bring about more women candidates should be a law that discriminates against candidates on the grounds of their gender.

Such a law will be bad for the cause of women and men. It will be divisive, discriminatory and undemocratic.

It is true that I do want

to conserve something, ie, the principle that anyone can contest an election irrespective of their gender and that voters can make up their own minds who to vote for irrespective of gender.

In contrast, the Minister intends to bring in a law whereby a citizen could be prevented from running in a general election solely on the grounds of their gender.

The Minister’s method of using State funding of political parties

to achieve his objective in relation to gender quotas is likely to be challenged as unconstitutional because his proposed law will be in conflict with article 16 of the Irish Constitution, which prohibits the passing of a law which places a disability on a citizen running for the Dáil on the grounds of their sex.

Joanna Tuffy TD (Labour) Details with Editor

of their songs available to download for free. For further information about the band, log onto www. trm.ie

NEW wage structures for the low paid will have a devastating effect on workers in the Dublin Mid West area, accroding to the People Before Profit Councillor, Gino Kenny.

Minister Richard Bruton’s proposed changes to Employment Regulation Orders (ERO) and Registered Employment Agreements (REA) will affect low-paid workers in the retail, catering, hotel and cleaning sectors.

Under these agreements low paid workers have certain entitlements such as Sunday pay and over time rates.

According to Mandate, the Trade Union which represents many of these workers, 260,000 workers will be directly affected by the proposed wage reviews.

The “Enough” Campaign has initiated what

it calls “a campaign of resistance to the attack on low-paid workers in the area.

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Kenny said: “These proposals will have a fundamental effect on low-paid workers in this area. Many people from Dublin Mid West work in the retail sector ,such as the Liffey Valley Shopping Centre.

“As some of these sectors are non-unionised most workers are vulnerable, and unaware of the attack awaiting their pay and conditions. The recent reversal of the minimum wage is to be welcomed, but the attack on these wage agreements is akin to robbing Peter to pay Paul.

“Unemployment in Clondalkin and beyond is at an all-time high. These proposals would be a disincentive to work rather than a job creator.”

4 LUCAN GAZETTE 30 June 2011

Take away time: McDonalds’ staff get qualifications BOOKENDED by John Atherton, managing director, McDonalds Ireland and Sue Hill, City & Guilds to one side, and Des Farrell, group business managers and Eoin Buchanan, business manager, McDonalds Liffey Valley, staff from McDonald’s Clondalkin and Lucan outlets were recently awarded City & Guilds qualifications in multi-skilled hospitality services.

They were amongst 122 McDonald’s Ireland employees, from 32 outlets, who were awarded with the qualifications for their training, stepping forward at a recent ceremony held in Dublin City University.

The City & Guilds accreditation programme is aligned to a FETAC Level 4 award on the National Framework of Qualifications.

CRIME: CALL FOR MORE PATROLS IN LUCAN

Intensified Garda presence needed Q PAUL HOSFORD lucan@gazettegroup.com

GARDA night patrols need to be “intensified” in the greater Lucan area.

That is the call from local TD Derek Keating.

Deputy Keating said that the call comes after hearing stories of crime and anti-social behaviour from residents.

“Following information received, and my own information gleaned from social contact with constituents, I have written to the Garda Superintendent Dermot Mann, at Lucan station to have both foot and car patrols intensified.”

Saying he was concerned regarding this information, Deputy Keating said: “We have very vulnerable people at risk of robbery or, even worse, being assaulted.

“I have also raised this with the Minister for Justice in the Dáil, asking for an increase in the Garda reserve force and more resourcing of the Community Watch programme, of which I have been pioneering for years.

The Gardai are second to none, but we need to assist them in every way to catch these visiting gangs.”

Keating said that the economic climate meant that more crime could be on the horizon.

“Our economy is in crisis, resulting in potentially more crime.

“Recently, this was brought to my attention and it is a worrying fact that more and more premises and homes will be burgled unless a strong clear message creating awareness is sent out. We need to play our part and I am asking the Gardai to assist us,” Keating said.

Keating said that the community had a role to play in keeping areas safe.

“The Neighbourhood Watch Programme has proven to be successful and, in those areas where it has lapsed, they are at risk of increased crime and robbery. At a recent community meeting it was stated that planned crime is happening; a gang will visit an area a number of times before striking.

“I have concluded that there is a significant increase in house burglary, but some people are not reporting. These are the very reasons why it is of vital importance to support local initiatives, including the recent public consultation I engaged in with Elmwood residents, which resulted in the Griffin Action Committee being formed.

“All of these local measures contribute to a safer place for our residents,” said Deputy Keating.

South Dublin County Council has unveiled a vast array of summer services for children. Right: Cllr Emer Higgins. Picture: Frank Murphy

ACTIVE SUMMER: ‘LITTLE EXCUSE FOR BOREDOM THIS SUMMER’

A fun-filled summer holiday Q PAUL HOSFORD lucan@gazettegroup.com

SOUTH Dublin County Council has unveiled a vast array of services for children throughout the summer months.

Cllr Emer Higgins had asked “that the Manager report on services the council will be providing to young people and children across South Dublin during the summer months,” and a report showed a large number of projects were recommended for grant aid.

These include Rowlagh Summer Project, Clondalkin Youth Service, Knockmitten Sum-

mer Project, Bawnogue Summer Project and Lucan Youth Fun. “The council facilitates a range of activities and events for children and young people over the summer months,” said the report.

ties. A wide range of activities are encouraged, such as arts and crafts, sports, educational trips, etc. The use of available community facilities (schools, community centres, halls, open spaces) is also encouraged.

Community

Grants

“Summer projects are aimed at providing a supervised programme of recreational and educational activities for young people over a consecutive number of weeks in the summer period. Emphasis is placed on community involvement and the development of resources and groups within locali-

“South Dublin County Council assists summer projects in the county area by way of grant-aid, assistance in kind, organised activities and staff support. In 2011 it is estimated that approximately 6,000 young people in the council’s administrative area will participate in these summer projects.

“County Dublin V.E.C has agreed to continue their financial support to summer projects for the year 2011. These grants will be complementary to the above, resulting in coordination between the two authorities, ensuring there is added value from this approach.

“CatholicYouth Care provides the necessary insurance cover for the summer projects,” concluded the manager’s report.

Education

Cllr Higgins said that the plans showed a commitment to education.

“I believe it is really

important to provide social and educational outlets for young people – just because school’s out doesn’t mean children stop learning.”

“There is a fantastic selection of activities and courses on offer to kids throughout the county this summer and, in addition to this programme, the communities of Lucan and Clondalkin will be running family fun days and activities as part of their summer festivals.

“With so much positive and creative programmes on offer there will be little excuse for cries of boredom this summer,” said Higgins.

30 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 5

COUNCIL Labour councillor is named as new mayor of SDCC

Catriona’s ‘honour’ to take on role Q PAUL HOSFORD

lucan@gazettegroup.com

A LUCAN councillor has become Mayor of South Dublin County Council (SDCC) for only the second time her party has held the role.

Labour councillor Catriona Jones was elected to the role last week. The last Lucan resident to hold the post was the Green’s late Billy Gogarty.

Cllr Jones was initially elected to the council in Tallaght South in 2004, before moving out of the re-drawn constituency to join Eamon Tuffy on the Labour ticket in Lucan.

There, following an agonising night’s counting, Cllr Jones was elected on the 11th count, justifying her decision and taking a second seat for her party.

She then fulfilled her pledge to her electorate, moving to the town that had elected her.

Nominating his local colleague, Cllr Tuffy said that he was “honoured” to nominate his partymate.

“In Lucan, our campaign in 2009 was a very united one, based on existing and developing

friendships.

“Shortly after she was elected, Catriona kept a particular promise she made to the people of Lucan, selling the family home in Kiltipper and moving to Lucan.

“In my view, this was a strong affirmation of her commitment to the Lucan electoral area,” he said.

“Since her election, Catriona has worked hard as a councillor, and brought a lot of insight into her work.

“As a member of the VEC, her ability, knowledge and hard work has contributed to the building of a number of schools in the county.

“Catriona knows that, being elected, she takes on a big challenge, being the leader of the thirdbiggest local authority in the country.

“I know she has the intellect, the capacity and the political will to carry out the job on behalf of all people of South Dublin.

“I also know she will bring her own personal qualities of sharpness, liveliness and friendliness to a job I know she will enjoy,” said Cllr Tuffy.

“Taking on the role,

Praise for new official LABOUR Party TD for Dublin Mid West, Joanna Tuffy, has welcomed the election of her Labour constituency colleague, Councillor Jones, as Mayor of South Dublin County Council.

“Councillor Jones is a very experienced councillor, having first been elected in 2004 for the Tallaght South electoral area, where she grew up, and then elected in 2009 for the Lucan electoral area, where she now lives with her family.

“She has also previously held the role of chair with County Dublin VEC,” said Deputy Tuffy.

--------------------------

‘I know she has the intellect, the capacity and the political will to carry out the job on behalf of all people of South Dublin.

‘She will bring her qualities of sharpness, liveliness and friendliness to a job I know she will enjoy.’

--------------------------

Cllr Eamon Tuffy

--------------------------

she will be the first Lucan Labour councillor to hold the office, and the first Lucan councillor, since our dear friend and late colleague, Billy Gogarty.

“I think Lucan and Catriona Jones’ time has come, and I commend her for the position of Mayor,” he said.

Cllr Jones was seconded by Cllr Cathal King, with whom she attended secondary school, and was backed from across

Labour councillor, Catriona Jones, the new Mayor of South Dublin County Council

the aisle by Fine Gael’s William Lavelle.

Cllr Jones went on to outline three key issues to her mayorship – identity, collaboration and developing business in the county.

“I am very honoured

to represent the people of South Dublin County and, in particular, my constituents in Lucan/ Palmerston.

“During my term in office, I want to focus on promoting South Dublin County’s identity and

achieving better outcomes for the citizens and business community here through collaborative working between the elected members and our partner agencies,” said the newly-elected mayor.

Nominated “She is the first Labour mayor for South Dublin County Council from the Lucan electoral area since the council was established.

“The Lucan Labour Party is very proud of Cllr Jones’s achievement in being elected Mayor.

“I also welcome the election of Labour councillor Pamela Kearns, from the Tallaght Central electoral area, as Deputy Mayor of South Dublin County Council, and Labour’s Cllr Breeda Bonner as chair of the Clondalkin Area C o m m i t t e e ,” s h e said.

6 LUCAN GAZETTE 30 June 2011

EDUCATION

COUNCIL: JUST TOO MANY TO CLEAR, REPORT SAYS

Reducing Extra PLC waste: The places dirt cheap helper LABOUR Party TD for Dublin Mid West, Joanna Tuffy has welcomed the announcement from Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairi Quinn that 1,000 additional Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) places will be allocated.

“T hese additional placements are badly needed and I am delighted that 30 of these places will go to County Dublin Vocational Educational Committee (VEC).

“We need to get people back to work and this announcement is yet another step in the Government’s Jobs Initiative Scheme, which will see almost 16,000 additional places in education and training provided countrywide.

It is important also that the VECs take into consideration the needs of those seeking these courses and I would ask that they prioritise the unemployed in the allocation of these placements.”

WITH the help of South Dublin County Council, DunLaoghaire Rathdown County Council, and the Stop Food Waste initiative of the Environmental Protection Agency, a new home composting demonstration site has been built by the programme’s newly-trained master composters at Airfield Estate, in Dundrum.

Almost one-third of all food purchased by households ends up in the bin. This includes scrapings from plates, food past their use-by dates, and food preparation residues.

Food waste prevention and home composting are two ways that homes and businesses can reduce costs and, at the same time, reap the benefits by making their own compost.

To help you achieve these savings, more than 25 master composter volunteers have been trained to provide talks, workshops, information stands and simply offer advice on food waste prevention and home composting throughout the South County Dublin and Dun-Laoghaire Rathdown

Gritting all paths is not on Q PAUL HOSFORD

lucan@gazettegroup.com

Artist Don Conroy cheers on some powerful worms as he officially opens a composting site at Airfield

communities.

The home composting demonstration site located in Airfield includes examples of composting bins, turning units, leaf mould, wormeries and a food digester, all ideal ways to convert your food scraps into a nutrient-rich compost for gardens.

On Saturday, June 18, the home composting demonstration site at Airfield was officially opened by wildlife artist, Don Conroy, while master composter volunteers

were presented with graduation certificates.

The master composters were available to give composting demonstrations and to offer advice on food waste prevention.

The location of the compost demonstration site in Airfield makes for a great family day out.

Airfield is open from 10am-5pm and, as the only urban working farm in Dublin, the estate offers visitors an opportunity to explore the gardens and working farm.

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IT WILL never be feasible to provide a gritting service on paths in South Dublin.

That is the conclusion arrived at in a report provided to the recent council meeting.

Labour councillor Breda Bonner had asked the council: “What lessons have been learned from the severe weather last winter?” and looked for a “report on what plans have been made to deal with severe weather this coming winter, with particular regard to keeping roads safe, salt and grit supplies, and arrangements for their use”.

Cllr Bonner also sought information on “addressing the problem of frozen water mains, the issue of footpaths and whose responsibility it is to keep them clear of snow and ice, and the drawing up of an integrated emergency response to ensure that residents, particularly the elderly, are looked after in times of severe weather”.

In a lengthy response, council management said that there were numerous recommendations, carried in an internal

review, but that gritting paths would not be one of them.

Recommendations included improved information flows from the National Roads Authority regarding salt deliveries, particularly with regard to advance notice, timing of deliveries and delivery arrangements.

A review of the response on footpaths, estate roads and industrial estates was highlighted.

Generic advice sheets which can be adopted for local use, were recommended, which would be suitable for all media outlets, especially for use on Facebook and Twitter.

The support and contribution made by the Defence Forces, and by the Civil Defence and, more importantly, by existing businesses, shopkeepers and the local voluntary community during such conditions is acknowledged by the council, and is being reviewed.

However, the council said: “Given the extent of linear metres of footpaths in the county, it will never be feasible to provide a gritting service in this regard.”

30 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 7

CULTURE Dublin is one of three cities shortlisted for Design Award COUNCIL Water problems

Dublin is shortlisted for World Design Capital 2014 Q DAWN LOVE

DUBLIN is one of just three cities shortlisted worldwide to become World Design Capital 2014.

T he International Council of Societies of Industrial Design (ICSID) announced last week that the prestigious designation, awarded biannually to cities that use design to benefit people socially, culturally and economically, will be awarded for 2014 to either Dublin, Bilbao, Spain, or Cape Town, South A frica.

The winning city will be announced this autumn.

Dublin’s Bid

The Dublin bid – Pivot Dublin, Turn Design Inside Out – is a collaboration between the four

Dublin local authorities, including South Dublin County Council.

It includes proposals to improve quality of life in cities, using Dublin as a test bed, under four --------------------------

‘Our bid celebrates ambiguity, diversity and difference, and tells a story of a city where there is much talent’ --------------------------

Gerry Breen, Mayor of Dublin

--------------------------

themes – Connecting Cities; Making Cities Flow; Making Cities Lighter and Making Cities Smile.

Work on developing and implementing these proposals, described in the bid as “seed projects”, will begin immediately.

Speaking following the announcement, Lord Mayor of Dublin, Gerry Breen said that “Dublin was honoured to be one of the three cities shortlisted for World Design Capital 2014”.

“On behalf of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, South Dublin and Fingal County Councils and Dublin City Council, I welcome the opportunities the World Design Capital project will give us. Our bid celebrates ambiguity, diversity and difference, and tells a story of a city where there is much talent, a solid tradition of great Irish design and a vibrant informal design scene.

We look forward to sharing that experience with the world – come what may – now, in 2014 and beyond,” he said.

Eddie Conroy, County Architect of SDCC , Ali Grehan, Dublin City Architect and Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn. Picture: Jason Clarke Photography

SOUTH Dublin County Council is this month looking to increase awareness of water conservation, with the summer a notoriously difficult period for local authorities.

Councillor Emer Higgins asked the County Manager recently “to outline proposals for promoting water preservation throughout the county this summer?”

A table produced by the council showed that, in total, 70,152 cubic metres are used daily across the county. This figure includes 14,653m3/day lost in network distribution.

The council hopes to bring the overall figure down to 68,200 this year, by lowering losses by customers and businesses.

“Network distribution water loss reduction will be achieved by network management through pressure control and leak detection and repair,” said the council report.

8 LUCAN GAZETTE 30 June 2011

FAMILIES A dinosaur petting zoo brings two tiny creatures

Ten-year-old Luke Flanagan pets a baby “Dryosaur”

Two dinosaurs’ visit is a roaring success OME larger-than-life – if somewhat small – dinosaurs were to be found in the aisles at Superquinn recently, courtesy of a visiting Erth Dinosaur Petting Zoo that delighted the Lucan shoppers.

Visiting in association with HB Hazelbrook Farm, two baby “Dryosaurs” were on display, with their careful keepers, Gavin Becton and Calvin Doherty, to help let locals know about the upcoming Dinosaur Petting Zoo, which

S

will feature them, and much bigger dinosaurs – including a certain creature that the keepers call “Rex” – at a special show at the RDS, with a tour that starts there on July 8.

Bringing Irish children (and grown-ups) face-to-face with long-lost creatures, with a little help from some human puppetry, the show marks the first stop on a European tour for Erth and its dinosaurs. For further information, see www.erth.ie.

Anthony Kennedy looks on as three-year-old Emma reaches out

Anna Flanagan seems amused by Gavin Becton’s baby Dryosaur A

Shane and Erica Keogh helped two-year-old Jack see the baby dinosaur

Eight-year-old Daniel Ryan is lucky to meet two baby dinosaurs

30 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 9

(with lots

of appeal) to the aisles of Superquinn Lucan

Ten-year-old Sorcha Dunne was deligted to have a photo on her phone of her meeting a baby “Dryosaur” (left) at Superquinn Lucan, where she also met Erth’s dinosaur handlers, Gavin Becton and Calvin Doherty. Pictures:Peter Doyle

Gavin Becton helped Marjorie Woodman to feed his young charge with some HB ice cream

Eight-year-old Emma O’Connor really enjoyed the unusual event at the supermarket

Four-year-old Kirsten Mahony tucks into HB ice cream

Seven-year-old Lauren Mulligan carefully petted the Dryosaur

10 LUCAN GAZETTE 30 June 2011

PRIZES

It’s a day to remember for local players

Kevin Behan is congratulated by Men’s Captain Sean Quigley

Lady Captain, Una Murphy, and Men’s Captain, Sean Quigley congratulate Richard O’Donovan, East of Ireland Amateur

Lady Captain’s winner, Yvonne O’Reilly, and her sons, Luke and Jordan

Championship winner

Great celebrations at Lucan Golf Club

ucan Golf Club had many reasons to celebrate after an exhilarating day of golf when the Men and Lady Captain’s competitions were held recently.

Kevin Behan took the Men’s prize, whilst the Lady Captain’s trophy went to Yvonne O’Reilly.

The club had even more reason to raise

L

a glass after one of its junior members, Richard O’Donovan, captured the East of Ireland Amateur championship at Baltray golf course.

Celebrations for the three and all others that obtained a prize were held at the Golf Club where the club members were surrounded by family and friends.

Sponsor, Martin Walshe, and Captain Sean Quigley congratulate Ivan Chadwick

Richard was joined by his proud mother, Betty, to celebrate his win in the East of Ireland Amateur Championship.

Niamh Williams is congratulated by Lady Captain Club president, Billy Hill and Men’s Captain Sean Quigley

Una

30 June 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 30 June 2011

HEALTH Therapies being used to deal with life problems

Offering support as you figure out best way forward Q GILLIAN BUCKLEY

Counsellor and Psychotherapist

challenge you, according to counsellor and psychotherapist, Gillian Buckley

-------------------------------------------------------

‘The therapist will offer you support when you try to figure out the best way forward when dealing with some of life’s problems’ --------------------------------------------------------

talk to.

The therapist will offer you support when you try to figure out the best way forward when dealing with some of life’s problems. It would not be possible to go through life without some upset or a particular time of uncertainty.

The reasons why people attend therapy vary.

Some people may attend due to unexpected current events taking place in their lives.

To name a few – redundancy, fertility difficulties or illness. Others may have been considering therapy for some time, as they are aware of events in their past or present that are affecting the quality of their lives.

These could include abuse, events in their childhood, bereavement or ongoing conflict in their relationships. Or, maybe, you or someone you know, is experiencing an overall sense of frustration and helplessness. Perhaps a number of things have compounded leaving you or your friend feeling over-

whelmed.

Seeing a therapist is not about being weak or unable to cope. It can help you overcome life’s obstacles and come out with solutions. It is helpful to anyone.

Therapy offers a safe opportunity to speak freely of your thoughts, opinions and experiences without judgment.

The role of a therapist is not to make decisions for you, but to support and challenge, so that you’re able to come up with your own solutions.

Through listening to your story the therapist will encourage you to look at aspects of your life, they can offer you insight and perspective to your situation.

Therapists work on the belief that people have the power to work out for themselves what is true for them.

The therapist helps the process of self-discovery and the development of new life skills.

Contact Gillian at hello@gillianbuckley.ie or visit www.gillianbuckley.ie

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The role of a therapist is not to make decisions for you, but to support and

OFTEN people are hesitant when they hear the word psychotherapy.

Some think it’s like psychology or psychiatry, others imagine lying back on a black leather chair while a therapist takes notes.

The truth is psychotherapy has very little in common with either.

Psychotherapy is centred around offering perspective and support, it’s not about analysing someone’s mind or taking notes, but rather it is focused on what the client wants to achieve.

Counselling and psychotherapy are two terms that are often heard being used interchangeably.

Both of these therapies are used to deal with life problems, and the skills used by the therapist are very similar.

Although these two practices have common characteristics, there are some differences.

Counselling can be defined as focusing on a specific life problem, whereas psychotherapy tends to deal with deeper, more long-term issues that may have stemmed from the past.

Psychotherapy can offer an opportunity to

bring about welcome change. The differences between counselling and psychotherapy need not concern anyone seeking help.

The practitioner will discuss the desired outcome of attending and will want to ensure the help they offer is appropriate for the individual concerned, before a commitment is made.

For the remainder of this article I will refer to counsellors and psychotherapists as therapists and the service they offer as therapy.

Therapy offers a unique opportunity to speak to a person in confidence about your life experiences and feelings in a way that is not always possible with friends or a family member.

Perhaps speaking with someone close can be more confusing than helpful. Maybe you only share part of your situation with them, not wanting to burden or worry them.

Or perhaps you are concerned what they may think, or they may advise you on what to do.

They may not know what is best for you, fuelling your own confusion.

When faced with obstacles that occur in life it can help to have someone impartial you can

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30 June 2011 GAZETTE 13

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A few simple steps to tackle the effects of debt THE Phoenix Process is a group of individuals who came together with a vision of National Recovery.

The Phoenix Process articles will focus on different issues, the intention behind all the articles will be to encourage, inspire, motivate and to bring muchneeded hope.

Each writer is a professional, who has been affected by the economic crisis in different ways.

Five-point Recovery Plan: FIRST, write down a list of all unsecured loans (name of creditor and amount owed) Make a ring binder file for each of these creditors and name them, then put these files in a box named ‘Courage under Fire’ ( For example).

Make a separate file for mortgage and household, personal/family bills. Name this file ‘LIFE’ One file is about looking after You, Your loved ones and Your Home. The other is not!

Now make an Income and Expenditure List: (These forms are available from MABS offices) Remember to include EVERYTHING you, and or your dependents, need on this list.

Include EVERYTHING that is essentially and necessarily beneficial to your, and your family’s, well-being. Do this as a sixmonth forecast.

1. Make at least 30 copies of your Income and Expenditure Form – put these forms in another file called ‘Action Plan’.

2. For every file you make, set up a folder on your PC with the same name.

3. For every file you make, set up a folder in your email account with the same name.

4. Now make a diary named ‘Life after Debt’ and make a first entry 1. ‘Make an appointment with Debt Management Agency’ – you will carry out tasks the day after you enter them in the diary.

5. Write to all creditors to let them know that you are in financial difficulty and will write again enclosing an income and expenditure form, as well as all other relevant details.

6. Enter one task in your diary per day that you will carry out on the following day, and so on.

So, that’s it: A ‘Life’ File A ‘Courage under Fire’ File A ‘Life after Debt’ Diary An 'Action Plan' File This will lead to …… Recovery A five-point plan that will happen and will work.

Remember to be honest with everyone around you and receive support with all of this.

There should NEVER be shame around being in debt – especially when there is a National debt crisis.

One of the most important aspects of dealing with any crisis is positive and proactive support systems.

This column will be printed weekly, and if you feel you would like to join in this process, please contact www.phoenixprocess.ie This week, we hear from Tara O’Grady. Tara was a restaurateur who lost everything financially in recent times, following the closure of her business.

She has actively been seeking debt law reform to protect people’s homes, minds and lives for some time now. Having suffered from a stress-related disorder due to the pressures that were put upon her, she decided to put together a survival package for those suffering from debt despair. She is positive and proactive about dealing with the ramifications of debt, both on an individual and national level.

Tara O’Grady

14 GAZETTE 30 June 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

Get ready to improve you beach confidence Q KATHLEEN ROWLEY

E Irish love the sun – we wait impatiently for its arrival then lose the run of ourselves once it’s here! However, there is one word associated with our welcomed visitor that is guaranteed to strike fear into the hearts of Irish women … bikini.

After a very tough winter spent wrapped up under numerous layers of clothing and clinging to radiators, most of us will have bluey-white skin that has taken on a slightly bumpy feel. Fear not ladies, there are a number of things you can do that will improve your beach confidence.

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Brushing

Body brushing each morning before your shower has numerous benefits for your body – its helps improve circulation, remove dead skin and can reduce the appearance of our worst enemy, cellulite!

It’s a relatively cheap way to improve skin tone with the Body Shop’s Round Body Brush coming in at a pursefriendly €11.95.

Using long sweeping strokes, go from toe to head making sure to brush gently and towards the heart, go softer on areas where the skin is thinner.

Scrubbing dishes and floors is not my idea of a good time, but I adore giving my body a good scrub! Regular exfoliation softens rough skin, sloughs away dead skin cells, leaving skin softer and allowing sun cream to work more effectively. It has become a real beauty staple, so there are loads of options. L’Oreal Exfotonic Skin Revealing Exfoliator (€13) has just the

right amount of grit to refine the skin and has a fresh scent.

Green Angel Sunrise Body Smoother (€25.95) feels like a real treat for the skin, it contains natural salt, lemon, grapefruit and Irish seaweed extract and l e av e s s k i n soft and rejuvenated. Dove Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash (€7) is a nice introduction for those who have never used exfoliating products before.

Moisturising

The next step is moisturising! Moisturising regularly is the most important thing, so there is no need to spend a fortune.

Apply straight after your shower when pores are still open and can absorb the lotion better. The Vaseline Sheer Infusion (€6.50)

range aims to moisturise deep into your skin without being sticky.

For the green queens out there, Voya’s Softly Does It combines a silky blend of wild seaweed extracts and organic essential oils for a deep moisturising experience. Personally, I’m nuts about nuts, so Palmers Cocoa Butter (€6.50) and legendary Body Shop Body Butters (€17.95) are my favourites.

Fake tan

If you’ve been doing your damnedest to shape up, but still don’t feel like a truck load of dollars, then a bit of fake tan can help. If you can’t tone it – tan it! For gradual tans without that fake tan scent, Dove’s Summer Glow (€6.30) and St Tropez’s Gradual Tan Everyday (€20) have been praised for their pleasant fragrances.

L’Oreal Sublime Bronze range has creams, gels and lotions, so they suit most skin types ranging from €13 to €20.

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There are a number of things you can do that will improve your beach confidence this summer

Smoothest feet ever with the Micropedia home spa DO you tend to suffer from dry, cracked heels or rough skin on your feet? Well, don’t even think about slipping into high heels and gladiators without taking care of your footsies this summer!

Most of us tend to neglect and abuse our feet, getting a pedicure once every leap year and squeezing into shoes that look gorgeous, but feel torturous. There is a good solution to resolve this problem forever.

Now you can get super smooth holiday feet with Lifes2good’s amazing new Micropedi and put your best foot forward this summer, whether you are staying home or going abroad.

Home spa The professionalat-home pedicure system works quickly and effectively on all areas of your feet, removing

The Micropedi is ideal for smoothing dry, rough, calloused skin on feet

the dead skin cells safely and leaving your feet feeling soft and looking like you just stepped out of a spa.

The Micropedi is ideal for smoothing dry, rough, calloused skin on feet, its unique roller spins 360 degrees at 30 times per second.

It’s safe and gentle action give immediate results and it is portable and easy to use. and is

just €39.95.

Lifes2good claims that it’s the perfect way to get a professional spa-like pedicure in the comfort of your own home. Holiday footperfect in just a few minutes!

Micropedia is now available at the leading pharmacies and health stores nationwide or, alternatively, visit www. lifes2good.ie.

30 June 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: PURCHASING A ‘DESIGNER’ DOG CAN LEAD TO NOTHING BUT MISERY

Although not from puppy farms, the Dublin SPCA rescued these three pups, Chipstick, Bruno and Georgie, which only look this healthy due to their care and veterinary treatment

Do you know where your new puppy came from?

V E RY DAY, through my education programmes and my work on the mobile clinics, I speak with people regarding animal welfare issues and it concerns me when I meet pet parents who tell me they’ve purchased so-called “designer” dogs from some puppy farmers – often spending as much as €500 per puppy!

These dogs, they inform me, often become “very ill, very quickly,” and they cannot understand why this has occurred.

Really?

Ok, let’s not beat about the bush…if you buy a dog from some puppy farmers you’re buying TROUBLE! You’re buying HEARTACHE! Now, please don’t get me wrong, I must point out, immediately, that there are many responsible, registered, humane breeders out there who are appalled and dissociate themselves totally

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from those who farm puppies in a cruel and inhumane manner – where the poor animals are treated as commodities.

A responsible breeder will always invite you to visit his/her premises and allow you inspect them, and will be equally interested and concerned about your bona fides and want to know where the puppy is going and the type of person who will become his new parent.

A responsible breeder is one who cares about animal welfare.

However, let me educate you regarding the reality that is the inhumane puppy farmer: Each year, approximately 90,000 puppies are born in this country – around 45,000 of these are exported overseas, usually to the UK and, as you can imagine, this is a very lucrative business, pulling in around €29m.

Therefore, in order to identify the origin

of each puppy, prevent the unscrupulous overbreeding of animals in appalling welfare conditions, i.e. puppy farms; protect you, the consumer, ensure traceability as well as accountability and prevent the spread of disease and enhance the credibility of responsible breeders, a very necessary piece of legislation was required.

That legislation is called The Dog Breeding Establishment Act 2010. This is an act to regulate the operation of dog breeding establishments, which requires local authorities to establish and maintain registers of dog breeding establishments and to prohibit the operation of unregistered ones.

The Act was welcomed by the Dublin SPCA, and other animal welfare groups, because some puppy-farmed animals spend their lives in squalid conditions, often in underground oil drums

or standing on painful wire flooring, are matted with their own faeces.

Often this is all they have to eat – their own faeces – and are forced to drink their own urine because little or no sustenance is provided for them.

Inhumane

They are too ill to move because of their cramped, over-crowded, inhumane conditions and suffer horrendous injuries and illnesses and receive little or no medical care. In fact, in most circumstances the only care they ever receive is just enough to keep them alive to breed again and again and again.

Oops, did you think the cute little farmed puppies slept in warm beds and frolicked around in open fields, like something out of a Disney movie?

Well, get real and think again.

Remember, often when dogs in some puppy farms

are no longer capable of breeding, they’re callously discarded. So purchasing a puppy from one of these places is the best way of supporting this shameful practise, adding to the misery of these animals and condemning them to a life of suffering and abuse.

This is a plague and it’s spreading – don’t feed it!

Again, I stress responsible, registered, breeders are not the cause of this situation!

So, take the following into consideration as a guideline before you buy.

Better still, adopt from an animal shelter. We have numerous, wonderful dogs looking for loving homes.

• Research dogs that interest you and find out which breed is right for you and your family/ environment.

• Insist on seeing the puppy’s parents – examine temperament / mental and physical condi-

tion/eye problems/other related health problems specific to your breed of choice.

• Inspect the environment where the puppy was kept and never, ever agree to meet the breeder half way or in a car park – insist on visiting the premises.

• Ask about inherited conditions from parents/ grandparents.

• Does the puppy come with a veterinary certificate of health? Speak to the vet.

• Dogs are adults longer than they are puppies, so make certain you are familiar with the adult type of your chosen breed.

If the breeder is responsible, he/she should ask certain questions such as: • Have you researched this breed/ why do you want this dog?

• What hours do you work/who will care for this dog when you’re at

work/on holiday?

• Do you have children/their ages?

• Describe a typical day/week at your house • What will you do if you can no longer keep this dog?

• Will the dog be spayed/neutered?

• Will the dog be allowed into the family home or be kept outdoors?

• Do you have other pets?

Remember it’s important you maintain good contact with your puppy’s breeder and understand you’re committing to this animal’s care for the rest of its life. A responsible breeder will welcome your commitment.

If you’re uncomfortable, or have any concerns, contact your local animal welfare shelter.

For more information, log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at Miriam.kerins@dspca.ie

16 GAZETTE 30 June 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day from across the capital

Over the hurdle Invincible Ash wins the Woodie’s DIY Sapphire Stakes: Pictured at the presentation was Ray Colman, and his wife Dolores, with winning connections PJ & Bernadette Condron, their daughter, Aislinn Swanick, Trainer Michael Halford and jockey, Gary Carroll.

Gazette Contacts

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Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Opening of Martello Towers’ exhibition

DUN LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN County Council has launched its 2011 Summer of Heritage programme with the Martello Towers’ of Dublin exhibition.

And to celebrate the start of Summer of Heritage 2011 the Cathaoirleach of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Cllr. John Bailey opened exhibition at County Hall, Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, County Dublin, this week. The exhibition will be open to the public from July 1 at 9.30am.

The iconic buildings along the Dublin coast are familiar landmarks.

But how many people know anything about them?

The exhibition will, for the first time, tell the story of Dublin’s Martello Towers that were built to defend the capital from French invasion.

It will also tell the story of why they were called Martello Towers.

People will learn how they worked as a military unit, how they were the first fortifications for centuries built to defend Dublin from attack, how they are being treated in the 21st

DIARY century by brave owners (one of whom has spent nearly €2m of his own money on restoring one) and how Stately Plump Buck Mulligan rooted the towers in literary legend.

In addition to the exhibition the Seapoint Martello Tower has been restored and is open for tours throughout the summer!

The Martello Towers of Dublin Exhibition is part of The dlr Summer of Heritage programme, which runs throughout the summer until Sunday, September 4.

of July 4.

The celebrations will run from Friday to Sunday.

All three nights are completely free and feature a host of talented bands from all across Dublin.

Friday night will see the hotlytipped Gypsies On The Autobahn headline.

Meanwhile, The Late Fragments, who packed Captain Americas only a couple of months ago, are also on the bill, with many more acts to follow as well. Saturday will see more great local acts in Stone Motion and Jerome’s Law heading the proceedings. Sunday has more local heroes with HyperGiants topping the bill, along with The Million Dollars, Last Second Magic and Any Mans Gang.

For more information on the festivities and the acts performing, log on to their website now: www.captainslive.com

The Captain celebrates in style Dragons invade Fingal Enterprise week CAPTAIN AMERICAS in Blanchardstown is set to come alive this weekend A three-day festival is planned celebrating the 40th birthday of the restaurant chain as well as American Independence Day,

FINGAL businesses will be

pitching against each other in a Dragon’s Den-style competition to decide the overall winner of the 2011 Fingal Enterprise Awards, as part of Fingal Enterprise Week this September.

Bobby Kerr, from RTE’s Dragon’s Den series, will sit on the judging panel alongside Ben Dunne and 11890’s Nicola Byrne.

Four local businesses are expected to go head-to-head in front of the Dragons, for a chance to win a share of the €6,000 cash prize, with mentoring support and the chance to represent Fingal at the National Enterprise Awards later this year.

For the first time, audience members will also get a chance to have their say on the best business pitch.

Audience voting will take place in a special Audience Winner prize category.

The Fingal Enterprise Awards are expected to be one of the main highlights of this year’s Fingal Enterprise Week.

Fingal Enterprise week runs in various locations throughout the county from Monday, September 26 to Friday, September 30.

30 June 2011 GAZETTE 17

POLITICS He talks to the Gazette about life, family, career

Why I would like to be President - Cox PAT Cox is seeking the Fine Gael nomination for the Presidency. The Party will hold its Selection Convention on July 9. Here, he answers a number of questions about his family, values and career.

Who influenced you most in life?

My parents, whose main legacy was to encourage a belief that a good education was a key to a successful life.

Tell us a bit about your family.

Our family consists of seven children, six of them young adults and our daughter, Mary, who was tragically killed at the age of six in a traffic accident in 1988.

Did you miss out on family life/ children growing up due to your political commitments in Dublin and Brussels/Strasbourg?

Political life is very demanding on family life with a lot of time spent away from home. Staying in touch constantly and ensuring some family time each week got us through.

What has been the most testing

time in your life?

Undoubtedly, coping with the loss of our daughter Mary.

What, to date, is your greatest regret in life?

I have two. The fact that Mary died so young and that I never really got to know my father as an adult.

How much is your current income?

Approximately €180,000 gross before tax.

What is your vision for the upcoming Presidency?

Today, too many of our citizens have no jobs, too many young people are worried about their prospects and too many parents are anxious about their children’s future. The next Presidency needs to strike a balance between recognising this reality and promoting hope in our future. I would like to be a strong advocate for our country and to use all my skills and contacts to be a champion for Ireland’s cause abroad.

Would you forgo your public

service pensions during your term if elected?

Yes, very definitely.

Do you agree that our current Corporation Tax rate of 12.5% is non-negotiable?

Yes. Ireland is entitled to defend our corporate tax rate. We are also entitled to remind President Sarkozy that, politically, he was a key author of the legally binding guarantees given to us to that effect initiated during the French Presidency of the EU in 2008.

Is the Europe project now doomed to fail?

No, it is not doomed to fail, but it is under more pressure now than for some time. This relates especially to the Eurozone crisis which, since its onset in Greece early in 2010, has witnessed the failure of the EU and key national political leaders to move beyond reactive policies and get on top of the problem. So far the EU policy response has addressed some key symptoms of the problem but has yet to solve the underlying debt crisis.

Pat Cox is seeking the Fine Gael nomination for the Presidency

18 GAZETTE 30 June 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs

MOTORISTS DISTRUST SPEED CAMERAS: A NEW survey in Britain showed that less than a third (29%) of motorists think that speed cameras are only used at sites with a bad record of crashes and injuries, and 50% think that raising money is their primary aim. And are we any different here in Ireland? The survey showed that support generally for speed cameras was high at 79%. Seventy percent of motorists agree that speed awareness courses are a better idea than prosecution. The greatest support for this is among 17 to 24-year-olds, with 82% in agreement.

IRELAND IS SIXTH SAFEST COUNTRY IN EU: A NEW report published by the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) based in Brussels shows that Ireland has made remarkable road safety progress over the last decade and is now the sixth safest country out of 27 EU Member states.

The report shows that, since 2001, Ireland has seen a rapid improvement in road safety. A total of 411 people were killed on Irish roads in 2001, compared to 212 in 2010, which represents a 48% cut in road deaths. Only 10 other countries, out of 27 EU member states, managed to achieve or improve on this level of reduction in road deaths.

Volkswagen’s new Amarok double car pick-up is a big machine with a modern, twin-turbo diesel 2.0-litre engine that delivers good power and economy

Volkswagen Amarok is here Volkswagen is widening its scope as it aspires to be the world’s leading car. MICHAEL MORONEY checks it out.

OLKSWAGEN’S Amarok is here and, on first impressions, this is one big machine. It almost has an American pick-up feel to in terms of size, yet under the large bonnet is a thrifty 2.0litre, turbo-diesel engine that provides some running cost comfort.

It is unmistakably a Volkswagen, with that big VW badge up in front.

But, it also combines the solid design features with a strong chassis that’s designed to combine work and play.

It has a wide stance on the road, giving it extra stature and making it

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SPECS: VOLKSWAGEN AMAROK 2.0T Top speed: 181 km-hr 0 – 100km/hr: 11.1 secs Economy: 12.8 km/litre (7.8 l/100km) CO2 emissions: 206g/km Road Tax Band: N (€614) or commercial tax €288 Scrappage Eligible: Yes Warranty: 2 years Entry Price: €34,110

very noticeable on the road. It’s 100mm wider than the Nissan Navara, and you can feel that from behind the wheel.

Volkswagen has chosen this modest size engine for the Amarok to

combine enough power with the best-in-class economy. There are two power options for the new Amarok – either the entry level 122bhp or 163bhp version.

Volkswagen expects that the higher power version will be the most popular because the price differences are not that significant. And that was the Amarok Highline version that I drove, which had the benefit of attractive styling and comfort features.

The modest-size engine is impressive. Volkswagen has achieved this by combining the effect of two exhaust, gas-powered

turbo-chargers. It can develop 163bhp, which is more than a match for any of the 2.5-litre pickup competition in terms of power and torque output.

The Amarok accelerates impressively. I would rate it as the fastest crew cab 4x4 pick-up on the market, marginally faster than the 2.5-litre Nissan Navara, which, along with the Toyota Hilux, is its main competitor.

Economy The bonus comes in terms of fuel economy.

The new Amarok comes with a rating of 12.8 km/ litre (7.8l/100km) which,

on any comparison, is rated as the best in its class.

That’s because the Amarok can sit on the road at 2000rpm and in sixth gear achieve the motorway speed limit of 120km/hr with absolute comfort. The economy figure will drop significantly with trailer work, but it’s still ahead of the competition.

The Amarok range is rated at 1,000km on a full 80-litre tank of diesel.

While I covered more than 1,300km in a week’s driving, I achieved closer to 900km on a full tank.

On road, the Amarok is very comfortable due

to its big size 3,095mm wheelbase. The bigger 17-inch alloy wheels added to the comfort, even though, like all pickups, the rear suspension is a leaf spring design.

Take it across field and hills and the Amarok lives up to its claims. The ground clearance is second highest at 249mm, just slightly lower than the Toyota Hilux.

There is a simple to operate 4x4 engagement system that includes the option of a low 4x4 drive and the option of including a differential lock.

The system is a mechanical one that electrically engaged at low speeds.

Driving in Europe – ignore the rules at your peril MOTORING on the continent can work out expensive. In Europe, speed cameras, over-zealous policemen and on-the-spot fines await the unwitting Irish driver.

An EU directive began in March allowing European countries to share driver information. EU Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas said: “Foreign

drivers account for 5% of traffic on Europe’s roads, but 15% of offences. If you are that driver, I have bad news. It’s about to stop.”

Penalties Irish drivers are being forced to hand over €90 for not displaying an IRL sticker or failing to carry a high-visibility vest.

Not having a warning triangle or spare bulbs can cost another €90. In France, licence and vehicle confiscation is another possibility. Ignore the rules and drive at your peril.

There are frequent police checkpoints at the exits of the major ferry ports to check whether drivers have the required safety equipment, so it is best to ensure

that you have all the necessary equipment before travelling to France.

Different countries have various rules on what you need to keep in your car.

Check out the Department of Foreign Affairs website www.dfa.ie for full details on what you’re obliged and advised to take. Ignore the rules and drive at your peril.

30 June 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 30 June 2011

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GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY Wool carpets: Nothing else compares

Castlethorn’s Adamstown development

ADAMSTOWN: WIDE RANGE OF PROPERTIES

Discernible value for house-hunters For discerning property buyers looking for real value, Castlethorn’s popular development at Adamstown Square, in Lucan, is well worth a visit. £135,000 is the competitive price of the twobed apartment that boasts an extremely high level of specification, and is also located close to the main amenities of Adamstown, including local shops, schools and train station.

For those looking for a larger home, there are new large three-bed duplex units located on the second and third floors, with over 1,000 ft sq accommodation and a spacious balcony at prices from £165,000. Similarly-sized, groundfloor three-bed duplexes with private amenity areas start from €185,000. In addition, there are a small number of three- and four-bed houses available from €235,000 and €249,950 respectively.

In total, there are six fully-fitted showhomes on view at Adamstown Square, so there is plenty of choice for the price-conscious home hunter.

All homes come with the standard of quality and finish synonymous with the Castlethorn brand.

All master bedrooms are very generous in size and are en suites.

In addition, purchasers will benefit from modern, fitted kitchens complete with oven/ hob, fridge-freezer, dishwasher and washer/ dryer. The BER (Building Energy Rating) rating of each home is very high.

The Adamstown marketing suite and show units are open every day, weekends from 3 to 5pm and on weekdays from 10am to 5pm.

For further information, phone Leahys on 601 1800, or log onto www.castlethorn.ie

WOOL Carpets are still tops with homeowners! That’s according to TC Matthews, who are the biggest sellers of wool carpets in the country.

According to their MD, Brendan Cumiskey, the demand for quality wool carpets has never diminished – even in these severe recessionary times. He claims: “People are prepared to look at wool carpets as a future investment, rather than a casual discretionary purchase.”

Carpets woven from man-made fibres do not offer the same degree of quality, luxury and long-term wear, he advises. “Wool carpets have, in fact, recently come down in price, in relative terms. This obviously makes them more affordable. And, at TC Matthews, we are always delighted to pass these savings onto our customers,” says Brendan.

Certainly, it would appear that Cumiskey’s company is cashing in on the “wool” demand. He has just opened a €1million expanded and

refurbished branch in Walkinstown.

“Like Feargal Quinn, we believe the customer is king, and we have always offered a very personal service to our customers,” he says.

“Carpets still account for a big slice of home furnishing spend, and we feel we owe it to our customers to personally advise on what is the best investment for them, in the longer term. And, because we buy big

volumes of wool carpets, we get them at very keen prices, and can then pass these savings on. It means more people who thought they couldn’t afford wool, now can!”

Certainly, the current TC Matthews Summer Sale seems to offer astonishingly good value across a wide range of quality household names. Savings of up to 65% in some cases.

DUNSANY: FIVE-BEDROOM LUXURY HOME IN COUNTRY FOR €595,000

Opulent accommodation in rural County Meath FOR homeseekers looking for something special in the countryside of County Meath, Carty Properties, in Trim, are bringing Rolling Hills Lodge, at Boycetown, Dunsany The property is an architecturally-designed five-bedroom detached dormer bungalow set on a landscaped site of c.75 acre, to the market for €595,000 This property is located down a country lane in peaceful rural setting approximately one mile off the Trim to Dublin road, four miles from Trim and just 24 miles to Dublin city centre.

The house comprises entry hall with Chinese slate flooring, a formal dining room with two windows to the front of the property, and a solid teak wooden floor.

Also downstairs is a family room with two

windows to the front, a feature fireplace and s o l i d t e a k wo o d e n floor.

The kitchen/breakfast room features maple fitted kitchen units, an island, a sliding door to the outside decking area, and a Chinese slate floor. There is a utility room plumbed for washer and dryer.

The lounge has three cathedral-style windows to the side, and two windows to the front, a wood-panelled high ceiling with recessed lights, and a wood pellet stove.

There are five bedrooms in the property, all of which are en suite, with carpeted or wooden floors, and three of which feature walk-in wardrobes.

The attic area is partially converted, with a bedroom, bathroom and games room all accessed

Rolling Hills Lodge at Boycetown near Dunsany is on the market for €595,000

by Styra.

The property is approached by a sweeping gravel driveway and is surrounded by landscaped lawns to the front, side and rear.

The third bedroom downstairs comes complete with a separate

kitchen and outside access, providing an ideal granny flat, or suitable for renting with a potential rental income of €450 per month.

Features of Rolling Hills include underfloor heating, a solid teak wood staircase, a double

detatched garage, and its peaceful rural location with panoramic views of the local countryside.

For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Carty on 04694 86860 or see www.carty. ie.

30 June 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Eimear Connolly, Area Sales Manager for Carlton Hotels, Dublin.

The success behind Eimear Connolly of Carlton Hotels EIMEAR began her career as a HR Administrator in ntl and eventually decided to move into a sales role with the company. This gave her a taste for selling and she spent many years growing within sales divisions in a couple of large multinational telecoms and IT Companies, including ntl and BT. Eimear decided in 2007 to put her career on hold and pursue her life-long ambition of doing a world tour for nine months. On return, she decided to move into a new industry with new challenges, and joined the Burlington Hotel as corporate sales manager. She then joined the Carlton Group in June 2010, where she took up the position as sales and marketing manager for the Carlton Dublin Airport Hotel. Eimear recently received a promotion to area sales manager Dublin, when the group took over their new addition to their expanding Irish Hotel Group, Carlton Blanchardstown, formerly known as Park Plaza Tyrrelstown.

Having two properties to look after, Carlton Dublin Airport and Carlton Blanchardstown, Eimear’s new role is challenging. However, coming from a strong sales background, it all comes natural to her. Loving the excitement and challenge of each day, Eimear spends most of her time out on the road meeting new people and developing new working relations with business clients.

Eimear is enjoying the challenge of her new role

FINANCIAL ADVISER OR SALES REPRESENTATIVE? Q – I am finding it hard to see the difference between a so-called financial adviser and someone who is just trying to sell you a product like an insurance policy or mortgage. Is there any way of telling and what is the best route to take ? Mairé - Bray

Q&A Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be?

A: A nun, and then I spent 14 years in convent schools, and discovered boys.

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: GAA – Come on Down!

Q: What sport can you play?

A: Tennis, when I find the time.

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Anyone that lets me.

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Nearly falling over a cliff

Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update?

A: Haven’t updated anything in

edge in a jeep in Bolivia.

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Sun, sea and ... sangria!

Q: What was your first job?

A: McManus Shoe Shop.

Q: What is your guilty music/ TV or movie pleasure?

A: Well, I love my soaps and

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: £1 an hour – slave labour.

I could watch Pretty Woman over and over and over....

Q: Describe your dream meal?

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: June, 2010.

Q:What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be?

A: A box of mince pies that

Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna?

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: I guess I love the fact that

have been there since Christmas...

A: Can I not have dinner with

Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward?

A: Jedward all the way!

someone else?

in Peru, it was tough and I never in a million years thought I could do it...especially as I did no training for it!

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Clothes, shoes and furniture

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: I think I have it!

no two days are the same, and managing our Blanchardstown and Dublin Airport Hotels gives me the opportunity to meet a lot of new people.

Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’?

A: Well, I just hired three new staff so still working out what I can delegate!

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: Don’t have an iPad, but would like one, and I lost my iPod when I was away travelling and have yet to replace it.

a while.

A: Anything hot and spicy

shops.

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Funny you should ask; I arrived home last night and my husband had lined them all up, as I suggested I needed more...

67 pairs!!

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

Q: Have you achieved anything that you once thought you could not pull off?

A: I completed the Inca Trail

Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A - GOOD question Maire. One way of telling the difference is the fee you pay. If you DON’T pay a fee, you should ask: How does the adviser earn their income?

When you then realise the ONLY way the adviser earns income is by selling a product, you can ask further questions. The second question to ask is: Does the adviser have a vested interest in the product? All financial advisers are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland and about 400 of them MUST give the best advice, irrespective of agencies held (yours truly is one of the 400).

They MUST give you a TERMS of BUSINESS which states who they act for and what they charge. There are stringent regulations now governing financial advisers, and when you meet they MUST obtain all financial information from you, so that appropriate recommendations, action plans and solutions can be found. This is a legal requirement.

There is a difference between servicing a need and forcing you into a financial product – a true financial adviser will know that difference.

Currently we are offering 20-minute Money Doctor consultations for €65 – the same fee as you would pay your local GP.

Contact John with your money questions

A: Retirement is a bit far away,

at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website

but I think I would like to move somewhere hot, catch up on some much-needed sleep and just enjoy doing nothing!

at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

New web business offers virtual shop for Irish-made goods Siopa.com is a new web business providing a virtual shop window for quality and unique Irish-made crafts and goods. It is expected that the launch of siopa.com will help to create 100 local jobs in indigenous Irish craft and gift businesses, and small local producers across Ireland by tapping into the vast international Irish diaspora market in order to profile the very best Irish products abroad.

With the Irish crafts industry estimated to be worth €500 million annually in economic terms, siopa. com expects to generate in excess of €10 million annual turnover before their third year of operation.

Siopa.com’s supply partners range from some of the long-established popular Irish gift brands such as Waterford and Tipperary Crystal and Carraig Donn Knitwear, to many of the smaller craft and jewellery mak-

ers, such as Dublin-based Alan Ardiff, Baby Elegance, Boru Jewellery, Breda Haugh Jewellery, Gaga Baby and Tipperary Crystal.

This 100% Irish-owned company, run by Irish online entrepreneur Lulu O’Sullivan, who has over 15 years online retail and global delivery experience with giftsdirect.com, has been developed with the support of Enterprise Ireland.

The site acts as a conduit to inter-

national markets for smaller artisan producers across Ireland. Currently, siopa.com supports more than 100 indigenous Irish craft and gift businesses, giving them opportunity to market their wares to the world in a cost-effective manner, by tapping into the extensive experience of online marketing skills and world-wide logistic capabilities that the siopa. com team have.

Lulu O’Sullivan, CEO of siopa.

com, commented: “With siopa.com we bring you the very best of Irish giftware with a level of personal customer service that is second to none.

As part of siopa.com, my team and I travel extensively around Ireland to source the best quality traditional products and we can now provide an extensive outlet for unique Irish products.”

For more information, please log onto www.siopa.com

22 GAZETTE 30 June 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Brittas Bay in County Wicklow. Photo courtesy of Wicklow County Tourism

With 84 Irish beaches awarded blue flags for great bathing areas, now is the perfect time to enjoy an Irish summer holiday RECENTLY 84 beaches around the country were awarded blue flags for their top-class seaside bathing areas and what better way to celebrate the Irish summer than with a “staycation” to one of these spots.

Excellent water quality, lifeguards on duty, and clean and safe facilities are just some of the things to expect when visiting these golden strands, and Hotels.com is offering some good deals on hotels around the country. Just keep everything crossed for blue skies.

In Wicklow, The Grand Hotel in Brittas Bay, comes complete with a nightclub and fitness centre. Local attractions include gold-standard beach Brittas Bay, Wicklow’s Gaol and Mount Usher Gardens. Prices starts from €105 per night, from July 1 to 3.

On Inchydoney Beach, in Cork, the Quality Hotel starts from €110 per night.

Situated in Clonakilty, just a short drive from Inchydoney, the Quality Hotel is an ideal spot to relax after a day enjoying the surrounding attractions. Long appreciated as a picturesque and romantic location, make sure to pack a picnic and enjoy the ocean views while there.

Positioned in Castlebar, close to McHale Park, the Harlequin is a family-friendly property. Visitors can enjoy the private surroundings of Old Head Beach or climb Croagh Patrick for something a little different. Prices for The Harlequin Hotel, on the Old Head in Mayo, start from €79 per night.

Lahinch Golf and Leisure Hotel in Clare is a famous golf and leisure hotel, which is located right on the beach making it the perfect summer holiday destination. Surf lessons can be taken at the beach and local attractions include the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren. Prices start from €105 per night from July 1 to 3.

GETTING AWAY: REJUVENATE THE MIND AND THE BODY

‘This is not like any other part of Dublin’ PAUL HOSFORD

HE promise of h e ave n w i t h i n reach of the city centre will sound more like an ominous warning than an advertisement for Celtic Tiger sur vivors, burned by the notion of commuter belts and supposedly ideal surroundings.

Luckily, however, sometimes marketing is capable of simply summing up a place succinctly.

Pulling into The Village At Lyons, on the grounds of Celbridge Abbey, you are immediately struck by the other-worldly charm.

This is not like any part of Dublin I have ever been to.

Quaint brick buildings, the twisted chimney stack on The Shackleton House, the absolute tranquillity.

On checking in, we were brought the short distance to the residences, where we would spend the night in The Grace Morrison Suite, a beautiful ground-floor lodging.

Tucked away behind wrought iron gates, the residences feel secluded,

T

peaceful and calm.

An emphasis is on silence and the result is a stay so peaceful, that it will rejuvenate the weariest of bodies and minds.

Having got our bearings, we decided to take a walk around the spectacular surrounds.

The layout of The Village feels perfect. The residences are a short walk from the centre

thing to keep us going.

While on the surface, it looks like a regular cafe, the food is just that notch above.

The Girlfriend tucked into a potato and pesto soup while I plumped for honey roasted ham on a brown health loaf with Gubbeen cheese and spicy apple chutney.

Now, as a veteran of many GA A matches

evision completed this feeling.

Although, given it was the night of the Champions League Final, this was a blessing and a curse but, being the intrepid reporter I am, I bore my burden of missing Messi and Co. Following a short rest, we walked to dinner in La Serre.

The beautiful restau-

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

‘Tucked away behind wrought-iron gates, the residences feel secluded, peaceful and calm. An emphasis has been placed on silence and the result is a stay so peaceful, that it will rejuvenate the weariest of bodies and minds’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

area, which includes the Canal Cafe, NP2 Jewellery, Renaissance Designs and the Clodagh M c K e n n a C o o ke r y School and General store.

T h e j e we l i n t h e crown, however, is La Serre Restaurant, which was to be visited later in the evening.

Feeling slightly peckish, we stopped by the Canal Cafe for some-

and days out to Thurles, I consider myself a connoisseur of the “hang sangwich”, but this was like nothing I’d ever tasted. It will be hard to return to tin foil from a car boot, anyway.

Taking the chance to explore the Grand Canal walking path, we were struck by just how relaxed a place this is.

Indeed, the absence of anything resembling tel-

rant, set under a conservatory, is remarkably relaxed, but gorgeously adorned, with food to match.

I opted for a monkfish and bacon starter that was beautifully balanced and cooked to perfection, while The Girlfriend’s crab risotto was sweet and light, bordering on perfect.

As the mains of fillet of beef and roast chicken

The Village at Lyons boasts

breast arrived, the immediate impression you get is just how fresh everything is.

The vegetables feel freshly picked and the presentation of both dishes was truly impressive.

The flavoursome beef, served with a truffle oil, was perfectly done, while The Girlfriend was highly impressed with the chicken.

Desserts of white chocolate parfait for herself, and an amazingly done apple pie panacotta with blackberry jam, rounded out a glorious meal.

The next morning we were so comfortable in bed we missed breakfast.

But, whether it is the noise of a town, breakfast or a football match, it is hard to feel you miss anything when the surroundings are this impressive.

30 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs

Experience a city fjord cruise in beautiful Oslo this summer OSLO is beautifully situated at the very head of the spectacular Oslo Fjord, making it the perfect location for an introduction to cruising. The proximity to unspoiled nature lends a special atmosphere to the city and a two-hour guided boat trip provides a unique perspective on Oslo city centre, the busy harbour, and the fjord with its islands and inlets. Cruise by the stunning Opera House, through narrow sounds, idyllic bays and through a maze of islands with small summer houses as well experiencing fantastic views of the Akershus Fortress.

Fly direct from Dublin to Oslo from as little as €69 one way, including all taxes and charges with SAS. For more details go to www.flysas.ie.

Castle Durrow - Midweek Summer Pamper/Garden Package

spectacular surrounds, as well as a fantastic cafe and restaurant

SPOIL yourself in one of Castle Durrow’s luxurious individually-styled bedrooms, and indulge with amazing food and wine served by friendly, efficient staff in relaxed country surroundings Dinner, bed and breakfast costs from €210 per couple, with a delicious evening meal in the Castle’s dining room Complimentary tea/coffee, and mineral water available throughout your stay.

Guests can be pampered in the tranquil beauty salon and receive two treatments for the price of one from their full range of facials, massages and body wraps, or receive a guided tour from the head gardener, Bart, through the extensive gardens of the castle including its walled kitchen garden.

The beds are so comfortable you may miss breakfast

Music lovers and sun worshippers can enjoy both this September PAUL Claffey, the well known presenter and managing director of MWR (Mid West Radio), has been involved in the entertainment business all his life and has been organising music holidays in Ireland and abroad for over 17 years.

Music and Fun in the Sun with Paul Claffey packages to Portugal include entertainment from some of Ireland’s best known bands and entertainers.

For more information, call Joe Walsh Tours on 01-2410800 or visit www.joewalshtours.ie

24 LUCAN GAZETTE 30 June 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Irish Youth Dance Festival

Dublin Youth Dance Company, in partnership with dlr County Council Arts Office, presents, The 11th Irish Youth Dance Festival. The Irish Youth Dance Festival Is Ireland’s leading youth dance event. Held over two days, the programme will showcase the wealth of youth dance talent from around the country and abroad. At the event, Dublin Youth Dance Company premieres their latest choreography, Lilith.

Saturday, July 2 and Sunday, July 3 Tickets: €10/€14

SEAMUS ENNIS CULTURAL CENTRE 01 802 0898 Fionn Regan Acclaimed singer-songwriter Fionn Regan, with two albums under his belt, brings his unique live show to The Seamus Ennis Cultural Centre. With a new album coming later this summer, this show is not to be missed and is your chance catch this talented artist that is still on the rise.

Saturday, July 9 at 8:30pm. Admission: €16.

THE HELIX 01 700 7000 National Youth Orchestra of Ireland Summer Proms The National Youth Orchestra of Ireland returns to The Helix’s Mahony Hall for Summer Proms on July 2. This performance will feature guest conductor Garry Walker and pianist Sophie Cashell, who, along with the orchestra, will perform Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 2 and Mahler Symphony No. 1.

Saturday, July 2 at 8pm. Tickets: €15 or €10 with concession.

Liz Taylor Film Season The Helix begins its Liz Taylor Film Season on Wednesday July 6, with the opening film, Cleopatra. The season will run until July 16 and will also show National Velvet, Cat On A Hot Tin Roof and A Place In The Sun. Season tickets are €20, or €12 concession. Entry to each showing is €4/€6.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Waiting for Ikea

Director Alan King brings his production, Waiting for Ikea, to Dundrum’s Mill Theatre for two nights on June 30 and July 1, after sell-out runs in the past. This comedy has been lauded as full of laughs as it follows the everyday lives of Jade and Chrissie, two single mothers in Dublin.

Thursday, June 30 and Friday, July 1 at 8pm. Admission: €18/€15

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Syncopated Tempos of Time

Syncopated Tempos of Time is the new show from the students of Dance Fusion who are celebrating the 10th anniversary of their first performance in Draiocht. The show is promised to be a “rhapsody of imagination, celebration and inspiration”.

Sunday, July 3 at 2.30pm and 8pm. Admission: €18/€15

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Don’t Dress for Dinner Beezneez Theatre Company presents this new comedy, Don’t Dress for Dinner for two nights in the Civic Theatre. Don’t Dress for Dinner is story of one man’s attempts to entertain his mistress while his wife is away for a weekend. Laughs are guaranteed.

Monday, July 4 - Wednesday, July 6 at 8pm. Admission: €20/€16 with concession. Super Saver: All tickets €10 on Monday July 4.

Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake are the focal points of the film

Too cool for school Cameron Diaz struggles a little in the role of Bad Teacher but still delivers some silly laughs Q JONATHAN KEANE

“LEAVE your brain at the door” comedy is an exhausted phrase but sometimes it’s just necessary, and, in the case of Bad Teacher, it’s right on the money.

This is director, Jake Kasdan’s, return to the big screen after 2007’s Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story, in that time though, he brought the hit series, Californication to our smaller screens.

Bad Teacher, unfortunately, does not, in any way, scale those same heights as the series.

In one sense, the plot of Bad Teacher is strange one. Cameron Diaz is teacher Elizabeth Hasley, a young gold digger who thought she had left the teaching profession behind when she met the loaded hubby of her bank account’s dreams.

However, things go

stale for Ms Hasley when she is found out and dumped. Crestfallen, she must return to the doldrums of teaching junior high school, where the classroom acts as her retreat for mouthing expletives, knocking back a few drinks and getting high – the traits of any great teacher, of course!

Several comparisons can be made to Bad Santa, the 2003 Billy Bob Thornton flick that saw him dawn a Santa outfit in a haze of drunken and misanthropic misbehaviour.

What made that film work was Thornton’s commitment to the role with no give in his explicit rambling and actions.

Diaz, on the other hand, is half-baked in the role of the crude Ms Hasley.

The odious and, intended, offensive remarks and gestures throughout just don’t have that same

bite. She is not the most suitable, when an array of the other actresses would have slotted into the crass character with ease.

The film is salvaged, somewhat, by the other characters of Scott Delacorte (Justin Timberlake) and Russell Gettis (Jason Segel). They can distract from some of the more overly-dim moments throughout, the former more so.

Timberlake’s Scott Delacorte character is a key element in the plot.

He plays the young substitute teacher, who just happens to be an heir to a wealthy fortune, so of course he catches the eye of Ms Hasley.

With that, she begins to stalk her prey in the hope of wooing young Scott and landing the ludicrously wealthy husband and cushy and worryfree lifestyle of yore that she so craves. But she

FILM OF THE WEEK: Bad Teacher +++ (16) 00 mins Director: Jake Kasdan Starring: Cameron Diaz, Justin Timberlake, Jason Segel, Lucy Punch

OUR VERDICT: BAD Teacher is a relatively decent comedy flick, just with a few mishaps in casting here and there. But there are plenty of moments that filled with silly laughs. Justin Timberlake is the film’s true redeeming factor in his role of Scott Delacorte and meshes well with Jason Segel and Lucy Punch too. Bad Teacher is certainly good summer comedy movie.

has competition in the form of Ms Amy Squirrel (Lucy Punch), something of a polar opposite to Hasley.

Justin Timberlake is the shining light of the film. The guy has proved a handful of times in the past that he has the chops for comedy roles of this nature. Of course, he’s not going to change the face of comedy anytime soon, but when held up against the rest of the cast, he’s a godsend to the film.

To be fair to both Diaz’s

role and Kasdan’s leadership, Bad Teacher is not an utter failure. There are laughs to be found, and good ones at that, and as far as simple comedies like this go, there are far, far worse out there.

Granted, it’s not essential viewing by any means.

Bad Teacher might be the kind of film worth renting out when it lands on DVD, opposed to making the heroic trek to the cinema, when this summer movie listings are littered with some truly must-see movies.

30 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 25

R1

Google’s extra tech for searches ADAM MAGUIRE

WITH its Android system for phones, and its “Chromebook” laptops coming to market in the US, you might think that Google had forgotten that it is a search engine at heart.

However, this could not be further from the truth.

T he company still makes the majority of its massive profits from its search engine, and ensuring people that keep using it is vital to its success.

But, with Microsoft and others nipping at their heels, they need to keep what they offer fresh and fast to stay attractive.

A number of new features announced for Google.ie in recent weeks is the proof, if any were needed, that they intend to do that.

Here is what the search engine can do, now ...

Voice Search Already a feature on mobiles, Google will now allow users to search using their voice alone (though only when they use Google’s own Chrome web browser, coupled with a microphone).

Assuming you are using Chrome, you will now see a microphone icon every time you are on Google.ie, which you just have to click to activate.

The idea is that using your voice will be quicker and more intuitive than typing – but how good a job the voice recognition will do with Irish accents remains to be seen!

Search by image While searching for an image has been a common feature of Google for years, you will now be able to search with an image, too.

This means that you can point Google to a picture, and it will help

you find out more about it.

So, for example, you might have a holiday snap where you cannot remember the name of the building in the background – drop that image into Google, and it should be able to tell you what it is.

Instant pages A big part of what Google wants to do is make searching faster – that is the main reason why search results now come up even before you’ve entered your

entire request.

However, as Google points out, once you find what you want and click on it, you might have to wait a few more seconds for it to load.

Now, with a new feature called “Instant Pages” this wait will be reduced.

Google will now load the top few pages in the background before you even click on them.

This means that if, these pages are what you are looking for, they will be ready to load instantly by the time you realise that.

Samsung Galaxy S II

WITH the first Samsung Galaxy S proving such a hit world-wide, its successor was always

going to have a lot to lose. However, the Galaxy S II hits all the right notes.

Samsung had a bit of a spluttering start with the Android platform when it launched its Galaxy device, which looked cheap, and felt rushed.

But the Galaxy S w a s a m a s s i ve i m p r ove m e n t o n that, with good looks and a great interface, which made it a real competitor in the smartphone market.

Thankfully, the Galaxy S II takes that quality and brings it on to

a significant degree.

The first thing you

will notice when you pick up the device is just how large its screen is – it dwarfs the iPhone 4, for example – but just how thin and light it is, despite this.

Indeed, when balanced on a fingertip, the phone has barely any weight at all, while it fits neatly in even the tightest of pockets.

Aesthetics aside, the operating system’s interface is simple but user-friendly.

The large touchscreen

is extremely responsive and vibrant, while its 8MP camera, with flash, delivers as much as you would expect it to.

Overall, this is one of the better Android phones out there – only HTC has done as good a job as this.

It is also up in the big leagues when it comes to smartphones in general, putting up a decent challenge to the iPhone.

The Samsung Galaxy S II is available from free on a contract with Three.

Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

GAZETTE

26 LUCAN GAZETTE 30 June 2011

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30 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

STARS FOR JUNE:

Dublin Sports Awards nominees for month are announced: Page 29

RUGBY: IRELAND FAIL TO IGNITE IN TOURNAMENT AGAINST WORLD-CLASS OPPONENTS

’Rock boy takes top scorer title in U-20 World Cup sport@gazettegroup.com

IRELAND’S Under-20 rugby side, who were filled with an array of local talent, were only able to claim eighth place in the IRB Junior World Championship, played recently in Treviso, Italy.

The tournament saw impressive performances across the board from the whole playing panel, but their opponents in many of the matches were among the elite of world

rugby, as was reflected in the results.

The team started off with a close game against England, which saw Ireland come within seven minutes of an historic win in the competition, following Blackrock College’s Andrew Conway’s try, Ireland’s only fivepointer in the game.

However, a late fade from the boys in green allowed England to steal victory and a late penalty denied Mike Ruddock’s

side even a losing bonus point.

The Under-20s then put in a brave performance that saw Conway once again the try-scorer, but ultimately the Baby ‘Boks’ size and power proved too strong as they ran out 42-26 winners in the side’s second Pool C match of the tournament.

Ireland’s only win in the tournament came in their final pool game against Scotland, scoring

Former Blackrock College students, Jordi Murphy and Andrew Conway, along with Paddy Jackson

three late tries against the Blues, to register a 30-13 win that saw them into the fifth-eighth place play-offs.

Unfortunately, their first match again was against South Africa, who recorded an even higher margin against

Ireland, but their hopes of back-to-back wins were not to bear fruit against the strong and slippery Boks.

A final match against Wales saw Ireland come close again, but the Dragons were not to be extinguished and Ireland were

outscored by five tries to three, going down 38-24 in the seventh-eighth place play-off.

Despite the defeat, it was still a memorable afternoon for Ireland full-back Andrew Conway whose first half try saw him draw level

with New Zealand’s Zac Guildford in the all-time top try-scoring stakes at the championship.

Conway, who turns 20 next month, has scored 10 tries in as many matches - five each in the 2010 and 2011 tournaments.

28 LUCAN GAZETTE 30 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport

Children find out how the coast guard saves lives

The local fire brigade giving a guided tour of the fire engines

Sarsfields

125 years of GAA History UCAN Sarsfield’s GAA club continued their 125th anniversary celebrations with an open day at 12th Lock recently.

There were fantastic displays from the emergency services, as well as bands playing, a food market, stalls, barbecue and football and hurling workshops It was a great day out for all of the members and their families who attended.

They were also lucky enough to see a highprofile senior match played on the pitches as the day drew to a close.

The club have also recently launched a book, Na Sairsealigh Abu, detailing the history of the club.

L

A great crowd came out to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the club

The emergency services were on hand to give a display

30 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 29

in association with

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - JUNE NOMINEES

FastSport

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

+ STARof the

Peamount discover draw for UEFA qualifiers

MONTH

LIAM RUSHE

LEEANNE ROYLE

MARIA MCGRATH

ST PAT’S hurling star Rushe was a pivotal player for Dublin as the Blues claimed their place in this weekend’s Leinster final.

His showing when injury forced him into a positional switch earned him a well-deserved man-ofthe-match award.

THE Corduff karate star registered a first for the sport in Ireland when she was awarded the prestigious Charles Naylor Memorial Trophy for the most outstanding child competitor at the Karate Union of Great Britain’s National Championships.

BALLYBODEN St Enda’s Maria McGrath was awarded the player-ofthe-match award when she helped guide Dublin Under-16 ladies’ footballing side to the Leinster title after a deluged and delayed final against Meath.

MALAHIDE CG TEAM

LORETO HC

MOUNTVIEW BOYS

THE Malahide Community Games’ team celebrated a bumper medals haul following the Dublin Community Games’ Athletics finals in Santry, which saw the group bring home 13 medals, including three golds.

LORETO stormed to European glory in Lille when they claimed gold at the EuroHockey Club Champion’s Challenge II, with tournament top-scorer Nikki Symmons, Cathy McKean and Naimh Small all scoring in the final.

MOUNTVIEW Boys’ Under-11s triumphed in the national final of the Danone Nations’ Cup held in AUL Complex, beating 900 teams from around the country to the title. They now travel to Real Madrid’s Bernabeu to contest the world title.

+ TEAMof the MONTH

WELCOME to the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, as we mark our local sportsmen and women’s June sporting achievements across the capital and, indeed, across the nation.

We’re delighted to once again be able to celebrate the finest achievements in Dub-

lin sport, with some huge efforts at local levels coming to our attention in a variety of well-known, and some, less prominent, sports.

Ever y form of sporting achievement, at any level and in any sport, is valuable and gives an indication of the diversity of sporting commit-

ment there is around our fair city at all times of the year.

Let us know!

Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars.

Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ gazettesport.

You can also check out the latest stories from GazetteSport at our new website, www.gazettegroup.com

FAI Women’s Cup holders, Peamount United, have been drawn in Group 3 of the UEFA Women’s Champions League Qualifying Round.

The draw, held in Nyon last week, paired the Clondalkin club were paired with Spanish side Rayo Vallecano de Madrid, ZNK Krka of Slovenia and Purnu FC from Estonia.

The group matches are to be played in Slovenia from August 11 to 16.

Spanish champions Rayo Vallecano will be favourites to top the group having come within a minute of beating Arsenal LFC in last season’s quarter-finals.

Coached by Eileen Gleeson, Peamount are bidding to join the Gunners and the other 22 top seeds in the round of 32, but must get through one of eight mini-tournaments that will be played.

All eight group winners plus the two best runners-up will proceed to the draw for the rounds of 32 and 16 on 23 August, with the two-legged knockout phase beginning the following month.

Holders Olympique Lyonnais are among those entering in the last 32.

30 LUCAN GAZETTE 30 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Adamstown CC show depth in local victory ADAMSTOWN Cricket Club’s home ground at Corkagh Park hosted a thrilling encounter between two local sides, Park Rangers XI defeating rivals Ruthless Charmers XI by five wickets, in a match that was poised on a knife-edge until the Ranger’s tail-enders pushed them over the finish line.

Despite the drama, the ineffable performance from the Adamstown juniors undoubtedly stole the limelight during this encounter, making the Lucan club’s pool of talent a force to be reckoned with in the future.

Elsewhere, Adamstown’s second team were away to Dundalk CC last Sunday and secured a huge win, scoring 174 in 39.4 overs.

In reply, Dundalk CC made 105, losing all their wickets in 37.2 overs.

Peamount holding trials this weekend PEAMOUNT UNITED are inviting ambitious young players from across Dublin to try out for one of the club’s schoolboy teams this weekend and become part of Ireland’s most exciting football project.

The West Dublin club are holding trials this Saturday for the array of teams they have competing in top divisions in the Dublin District Schoolboy League from Under8s all the way up to Under-18s – boys and girls.

Even youngsters born in 2005/2006 are welcome to join the

club’s 2011Academy, which is under the guidance of the club’s UEFA A Licence Director of Coaching.

Located in Greenogue, Newcastle, the club’s now-renowned football complex is an ideal location for players from Lucan, Clondalkin, Leixlip, Celbridge, Tallaght and almost anywhere in Dublin if they are ambitious enough.

The club are now looking to create the top schoolboys/girls’ section in the country to go with the best women’s section and welcome all players along this weekend.

For specific times each age group are holding trials at Peamount FC on Saturday, July 2, go to www.peamount.

LUCAN UNITED: TEAMS LOOKING TO STRENGTHEN FOR NEXT TERM

Lucan United’s intermediate side finished mid-table in their second year at that level, and are looking ahead to 2011/12

United in forging ahead Q sport@gazettegroup.com

LUCAN United were in reflective mood after their Intermediate side finished mid-table in only their second season at that level.

Although that the side may have done better given the calibre of the squad, they finished the season very strongly, picking up 25 points from a possible 33 in their last 11 games.

The matches the side did lose in the season were by single goals, and the feeling at the club is that there has been good progress made and that there is every chance they will

be in with a chance of promotion come the end of the next term.

“Our squad has developed as a unit over last season, as we were in a rebuilding process after the team that was in two cup finals and won the league in their last year of junior football pretty much broke up,” said the club’s John Doyle when he spoke to GazetteSport last week.

“Several players were reaching the end of their careers, and others heading abroad due to the economy issues.

“We do not need to make a lot of changes to the squad this year,

Aiming high in Athens: Special Olympics SARAH Byrne from Palmerstown drives

for the basket for Team Ireland during a divisioning game in the early stages of the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games.

Ireland were in action against Turkey in this match at the OAKA Olympic Indoor Hall, Athens Olympic Sport Complex in Greece.

The games got under way on Saturday night with an opening ceremony at the Kallimarmaro stadium.

The events will run until July 4 and will feature 7,500 athletes from 183 countries taking part in 22 sports.

but we do need to add two or three players were we feel we need to strengthen.

“Lucan have ver y good facilities on offer, good coaching structure and a great team sprit that any new player would enjoy.”

T he club have big ambitions to play at the highest level of Intermediate football and are seeking players who are playing at that level but would like to see their local club achieve that goal.

“We’re also delighted that Mark Rutherford has decided to play with us again this year, as his experience and talent

will be very valuable to us this season. He has also agreed to coach our Major Under-15 team.”

Lucan’s second team will be playing in Intermediate 1C Saturday next year after a good season last year which s aw t h e m f i n i s h i n g fourth.

“They were challenging all year; we feel they will have grown stronger from that experience and should again be involved in the title race this season,” said Doyle.

L u c a n h av e a l s o moved their third team from the UCL to Leinster Senior League

ahead of next season.

They had a very good first season in the UCL last year season finishing fourth and making it to two cup finals, winning the Star Shield.

Lucan’s schoolboy section continues to grow, with the academy continuing to produce technically good players for their small-sided teams.

Their Under-14 Premier team had another good season and are confident of being involved in the race next year for the title.

For more information about the club, see w w w. l u c a n u n i t e d f c . com

30 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 31

in association with

AHL 1: LUCAN HIT STRIDE AFTER RECENT WINLESS RUN

CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS CONTINUING Lucan Sarsfields’ 125

ished fourth in national feile skills

celebrations, Na Sairsealigh Abu

competition, and good luck to the

was launched on Saturday night.

boys’ footballers at national feile

The book is now on sale in the bar.

in Dunmanway next Thurday and

Summer camps have been fixed

Golf classic is July 15, and teams of

8 to 12 and 15 to 19. Register online

three players can be booked though

via website. Discount if done before

Dave Whittle (087 252 2656), Michael

June 30.

O’Grady (087 233 1983). All forms of

Thanks to everyone who helped in recent clean-up.

Sarsfields secure precious victory AHL DIVISION 1 Lucan Sarsfields Ballinteer St John’s RONAN MOYLES

3-12 1-10

sport@gazettegroup.com

LUCA N S a r s f i e l d s ’ senior hurlers will be relieved to have put a halt to a poor run of form af ter emerging as convincing winners from a tricky tie with Ballinteer St John’s at 12th Lock last Saturday.

This is Lucan’s first win of what has been a disappointing season so far, and ends a run of seven games without a win in AHL 1, a run that has included one draw and six defeats.

On a warm and windy afternoon, Lucan took early advantage of the breeze, racing into an early 1-7 to 0-1 lead, with the goal coming from Dermot Donnelly.

Good defending meant that Ballinteer St John’s did not open

their account until the 16th minute.

However, a further goal and a point from the visitors brought them some of the way back into contention, and the teams went in at half-time with the score board showing a 1-9 to 1-2 advantage to Lucan.

Donnelly was able to find the net again in the second half to increase the advantage, but the concession of a number of soft and a scoreable frees meant the Lucan side were in danger of letting St John’s back into the game.

However, a goalkeeping error gave Sarsfields their third goal, allowing them to run out worthy winners on a score line of 3-12 to 1-10. “ We we n t o u t t o establish a good early l e a d , k n ow i n g t h a t they would have the wind in the second half and we did that,” said

Lucan’s coach, Seamus O’Cathasaigh.

“But then they got that goal, and it probably put a better look on the scores. I think in the second half, we were clearly the better side.

Our greater experience at this level probably showed through.”

As O’Cathasaigh points out, this year’s poor run can be explained to a large degree by an “almost unbelievable” run of injuries.

“We’ve had many players missing, some with, unfor tunately, long-term injuries.

Obviously, we’ve going to miss county players of the quality of Peter Kelly and John McCaffrey, but we’ve managed the loss of our county players before.

“But the injuries have had a bad effect, as well as a number of the lads going away for the summer.

“I don’t think there

is an issue in terms of talent.

There has been a fair amount of bad luck too: “We’ve had some disappointing results and losses, but many of these have only been by the odd point.”

Next up for Lucan is an away match against B a l l y b o d e n i n t wo week’s time.

Lucan are currently rooted to the bottom of the table on three points: “At this stage, our aim is sur vival, which means getting outside the bottom two,” said O’Cathasaigh “Obviously our priority is the Championship and we’ve won the one game we’ve played so far in that competition.

But we want to stay in the top league, too.”

It would seem cruel for Sarsfields to be relegated after such a horrendous run of luck.

Unfortunately, sport can often be anything but fair.

support welcome.

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 9,

Well done to Dublin minor hurlers

11, 18 and 28. There was no winner.

and, in particular, captain Chris

Next week’s jackpot is €2,500. Mick

Crummy, Seanie McClelland, Mat-

Mulhall’s team will be in charge next

thew McCaffrey and Eoin O Con-

weekend.

ghaile on great performances in

Do not forget you can alwa ys

helping Dublin reach Leinster hurl-

enter our Lotto online by clicking

ing final.

on www.lucansarsfields.ie.

Good wins by senior hurlers and

Tickets also on sale in Carey’s

junior B hurlers in league during

Newsagents. Thanks to Newcas-

week.

tle Golf centre who are this week’s

Well done to Jenny Ryan, who fin-

Lucan Sarsfields’ hurlers registered their first win of their league campaign against Ballinteer

Friday.

for July 4 to 8, and 11 to 15; August

sponsor.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN SENIOR hurlers lost away league

Tickets for Leinster hurling final

fixture to Naomh Barrog and won

can be collected at clubhouse this

at home against Raheny, while jun-

Thur sda y from 7. 30 to 8 . 30pm.

iors lost at home to Faughs.

Stand €35 and Terrace €20, while

Juvenile hurling Under-8s and 9s

juveniles remain at €5.

played Stars Of Erin and Castle-

To book your Leinster football final

knock, 11s beat St Finian’s and 12s

tickets, text your order to 086 89 88

lost to Castleknock. Under-15s

920 before this Friday 12 noon.

footballers lost to St Joseph’s OCB. Senior footballers are at home on Saturday to Naomh Fionnbarra at 6.30pm, while juniors are away on Friday at 7.30pm to Kilmacud Crokes.

To view our website, simply log on to www.stpatricksgaa.ie.

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 3, 13, 23 and 29.

There was no winner of the €8,200 jackpot.

The first summer camp, which is

Match any three numbers win-

a hurling and camogie camp, takes

ners were Dessie O’Brien, Paul

place on July 25 to 29 and costs €30.

Bevan and Mick McLoughlin and

Camp two VHI football camp takes

each receive €70.

place on August 15 to 19 and costs €50. The VHI camp, which costs €50 includes gear, socks and jersey.

Next week’s jackpot is €8,400.

Draw is held each Sunday night at 10pm in the Palmerstown House.

WESTMANSTOWN GAELS/GARDA THERE is a busy coming week with

please contact Eugene O Sullivan or

five league fixtures involving our

Alan Lynch.

three adult teams. Intermediates

Westmanstown Gaels members

are at home to Man O War on Satur-

celebrated the mid-season break

day evening at 6.30pm.

with a family fun day at Westman-

Junior 1s are away on Friday to

stown. Many thanks to Mick Ahern,

St Sylvester’s at 7.30pm. Junior 2s

the barbecue team, coaches, par-

are away to St Brigid’s on Thursday

ents and their children for making it

evening also at 7.30pm.

a day to remember.

Ladies were beaten by Parnell’s in

You can book tickets for Dublin’s

championship last week, but have

Leinster final from 30 June on the

chance to get back to winning ways

club website.

with home cup game against St Syl-

The club is running a VHI Cul Camp

vester’s. Training continues on Mon-

on Monday, July 4 from 10am. Partic-

days and Fridays at 7pm.

ipation is open to members and non-

Final payments for New York trip must be made before end of July -

members at €55 per child. Download forms fromwestmanstowngaels.ie

ALL OF YOUR LUCAN CASTLEKNOCK COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31 SPORTS SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

NEW GANG UNITED IN VISION: IN ’TOWN: Lucan Westmanstown soccer side target host Leinster promotion schools’ as goal rugby for season blitz P28 P30

MAY JUNE26, 30,2011 2011

JUNE’SSTARS: SUPER JEWELS: May award Sports Awards nominees revealed inside nominees revealed P29P29

JONNY STAPLETON clondalkinsport@gazettegroup.com

STEPHEN Ormond claims he will buckle the first of many pro titles around his waist this September, and is eager to begin on a path that will eventually see him fulfil his potential over the coming years.

The prodigal son returned to the venue where he made his name as an amateur, the National Stadium, last Saturday night, and ensured his Clondalkin following were partying with an impressive knock-out performance.

T he man Bernard Dunne tipped to be his successor, broke Valentin Stoychev’s spirit with some crunching shots and a nice varied approach in the first four rounds before a massive right in the fifth.

And, not long after, the referee halted proceedings with the safety of the tough Bulgarian in mind.

The Frank Warren-promoted fighter revealed he could be out again on a Ricky Burn’s world title undercard as early as July but stressed the British promoter has promised him a title shot in September.

“I might be out in three weeks time in Liverpool, that has yet to be confirmed, but the main one for me is September, which will be a title shot. It should be a Commonwealth or EU title.

“It is very important to me to get a title now. I am 28 next year and I want shots now. I want to move up the ladder.

“Fighting my stablemate, Ricky Burns, for a world title was mentioned, but I need to get titles and wins to get into contention there.

“Hopefully, over the next year, I can a bigger fighters. I plan to start fulfilling my potential this year,” Ormond said.

In truth, the Clondalkin native, and former St Matthew’s ama-

teur, was expected to brush aside Valentin Stoychev, but he looked impressive regardless.

He was keen to stress prior to the bout that fighting for the first time as a pro in the home of Irish boxing brought no added pressure, but it was clear from the first bell that Ormond wanted to add to his fifth KO to a now ten-fight record, and to entertain the Dublin faithful.

“He was a tough lad and was bigger than me. He took some good shots. Although I said I wasn’t under pressure to perform, I did want to stop him. That’s why we took a six-rounder. I am better over a distance, I can grind lads down.

“I am learning from Pascal Collins and we brought a lot of stuff from the gym into that fight.

Working with Frank will open doors and Pascal is teaching me a lot. I have a good team and that is reflected in today’s performance.”

Stephen Ormond’s fight against Valentin Stoychev was an indication of the Clondalkin fighter’s promise

GazetteSPORT

Ormond seeking title bouts