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September 8, 2011

ASPEN’S ASPIRATIONS: Looking

after mental health in Lucan Pages 6-7

Shop ad boards classed as litter

by SDCC Q PAUL HOSFORD

LUCAN traders are being threatened with littering fines – for displaying traditional advertising boards outside their premises.

Council officials have sent letters to traders, warning them that the use of the boards is against council bylaws.

Amongst those affected is Darren Cleary, whose Deli King store, which provides gourmet sandwiches, meats

and cheeses, opened just five months ago on Main St in the village.

The businessman put the board up just outside the door of his shop three months ago, and says it has proved to be a huge success in attracting customers.

“I definitely saw about 20% of my turnover go down over the week from not having the board,” he said.

Full Story on Page 4

Colourful styles: Enjoying a fun-filled day at Ballyowen SC LENIE and her children, Angel and Ross, looked very summery and relaxed as they joined other locals to enjoy some end-of-summer fun at Ballyowen Shopping Centre recently.

Catching some of the last rays of sun-

shine, the trio looked as colourful as the fun activities laid on at the centre, where a face-painting clown, magic show, prize giveaways and even Mr Tayto helped make a great family day.

See Gallery on Page 2

2 LUCAN GAZETTE 8 September 2011

LAUNCH: ANGER OVER PROPOSED CHARGES

IT’S YOUR SHOT Some end-of-summer fun in Lucan

Campaign against taxes DUBLIN Mid West Sinn Fein has launched a major campaign against the Government’s proposed family taxes, including the household charge and water charges.

The campaign is already underway and will see a constituency wide doorto-door petition followed by public meetings and protests.

Dublin Mid West representative Eoin O’Broin said the campaign represented local anger over the proposed charges.

‘There is a growing anger at the proposals to introduce a flat rate household charge in January 2011 and a water charge in January 2013.

“Fine Gael and Labour both campaigned during the general election in opposition to property taxes. Labour not only campaigned against water charges, but promised to reverse them if, and when, in government.

“Yet within a matter of months both parties have broken their pre-election promises and are imposing not one, but two new taxes on hard-pressed families.

“These taxes are deeply unfair and will hit working families hardest. Those on low and middle incomes will pay exactly the same as high earners. This is not only unfair, but will further damage the local economy as people will have less disposable income to spend putting more jobs at risk,” he said.

“There is a better way to raise this money. The Government could stop using taxpayers’ money to pay off toxic debts in Anglo Irish Bank and use this money to invest in jobs and services.

“This Government has choices. The question is whether they have the backbone to stand up for the interests of ordinary people,” said O’Broin.

Margaret Donohue with some of her children: Patrick, Lisa, Joshua, Daniel, Alicia and Jessica

Family fun at Ballowen SC W ITH so much going on over at Ballyowen Shopping Centre recently, it’s no wonder that this face-painting clown appeared a little tired out – but, not to worry, there was plenty of fun-filled clowning

around going on when locals took part in the centre’s family fun days.

Running for a few days at the end of August, the centre had lots of great family- and child-friendly events laid on, including face-painting, a

A lovely smile from Lenie and her children, Angel and Ross

magic show, children’s story-telling, prize giveaways, and even a special appearance by Mr Tayto and the Tayto Bus, helping to create a crisp end to the summer’s fun.

Michelle Bramley and with daughters, Ceilin and Aoibhe

8 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 3

COMMUNITY Festival Family Day set to be highlight

Ramps’ repairs planned

Terrific line-up for this year’s Lucan Festival THE Lucan Festival starts in two weeks’ time, and there will be plenty for children again at this year’s event, along with arts and crafts activities, all of which are set to highlight local talent and get the community involved, too.

The action-packed festival will take place from September 19 to 25, with the Festival Family Day scheduled for Sunday, September 25.

The village will be pedestrianised for the day, and children can look forward to going to the cinema in the village, with the welcome return of the Cinemobile which will be showing a kids’

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film outside Superquinn on Friday at 3:30pm.

Ticket prices are €6, and children will also be treated to a McDonald’s meal as part of the price.

Other films include, on Saturday, Harry Potter, which is on at 1pm, and children are encouraged to dress up for the chance to win a Best Dress prize, followed by the film, Super 8, at 3:30pm.

Adults are not to be left out, as there will be shows of Bridesmaids at 8:30pm, as part of the “Ladies Night Out”, with a wine and cheese reception at 7:30pm.

Saturday’s showing at 8pm will be The Guard.

For cinema bookings,

contact Tom on 086 250 5665.

In addition, there will lots of free events, with a treasure hunt for all the young local explorers on Saturday at 11am.

Sunday is when it all happens in the village, with street entertainment, bouncy castles, ever-popular Punch and Judy shows, and children will be able to get up close and personal with all manner of creatures at the reptile zoo. Newcomer events this year include pony rides, and the Festival Rubber Duck Race.

There will also be music, courtesy of Headspace – a Lucan youth group – and dance from

COUNCIL: WORKS

Locals will jump for joy at the return of Lucan Festival, which once again promises a superb range of events and activities for the whole community to enjoy

Dancity, Westside Stage School and Lee Byrne Academy.

An art exhibition will be held in the old Gunne offices (Monday to Friday from 1-8pm, closing at 7pm on Saturday, and 6pm on Sunday.) The exhibition launches the festival this year at 7pm on the Monday.

Lucan Dramatic Society will be staging 30 minutes of comedy, fun and frolics at 8pm on Thursday, Friday and

Saturday in the art exhibition centre. Crafts will also be on show and the Irish Crafts Association will have a stall showing all how to knit, crochet and lots more, as well as a casket weaver.

Joe Byrne, chairman, Lucan Festival Committee, said: “More than 5,000 people came down to join in the festivities last year, and we hope to attract even more, this year.

“Lucan village will

be closed from 11am to 7pm, so we are asking all residents to park outside the village for the day, to provide as much space as possible for all the events.”

The festival committee are looking for volunteers to get involved in the runup to and during the festival itself.

Become a fan on Facebook; visit http://lucalfestival.wordpress.com, or email lucanfestival@ gmail.com.

MOTORISTS who have been lamenting the state of ramps following last winter’s bad weather will receive respite before the end of the year, as a number of ramps will be repaired.

With the repairs ongoing, a list of those ramps that will be repaired before the end of the year will be provided, in response to a question by Fine Gael councillor William Lavelle.

Ramps at Hillcrest, Ballyowen Lane and Liffey Terrace, Esker Lane, Boherboy Road, Garter Lane, Johnstown Road, Lealand Estate and Bawnogue Road will be repaired.

Cllr Lavelle said: “I have been contacted by local motorists, who are very angry at the poor state of these ramps which, they claim, are doing more damage to their cars than any pothole would.”

4 LUCAN GAZETTE 8 September 2011

MUSIC: AUTUMN PROJECTS

Singers host open night IT’S been a hectic end to the summer for the Lucan Gospel Singers, who performed at a Mass in St Mary’s Church last Sunday before hosting an open night the following Tuesday.

Both events gave the local public a chance to listen to the now renowned gospel choir, as well as allowing those interested to join up.

For over a decade, Lucan Gospel Singers have been one of the top Gospel performance groups in the country and also one of the most versatile, mixing an array of styles to great effect.

Now, the group would like to invite all past and aspiring members to join them for an unforgettable experience.

LGS Gospel Choir is busy with several upcoming projects as they head into autumn. T hese include a concert in the Helix Mahony Hall, which will take place on December 9.

This promises to be an exciting night, which will celebrate10 years of

inspired leadership from musical director, Ian Brabazon, and the event will also be a fundraiser for a deserving charity.

The choir rehearses every Tuesday night, and is keen to increase membership, which was the aim of the open night.

Ian and musical assistant, Dr Martin O’Leary, were on hand to welcome any new members and coach them in the choir repertoire, whatever their level of musical experience may be.

If you are interested in singing and are curious about Gospel music, the choir offers an outlet locally for your talents.

The choir is looking forward to participating in the Lucan Festival this September, and is also working hard on material for a CD single release.

Rehearsals are held every Tuesday night in St Mary’s National school, Lucan village, from 8.30pm to 10pm.

For more information about LGS, check out the website www.LGSGospelchoir.com

RETAIL Signs contravene by-laws – SDCC

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‘If the board is done tastefully, and is written properly, it doesn’t bring down the tone of the village – it actually enhances it’ Darren Cleary is one of a number of local businesses using a traditional advertising

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board – yet the council have sent letters warning of littering fines for their usage

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Darren Cleary, Deli King

Traders’ frustration at warnings over signage Q PAUL HOSFORD

lucan@gazettegroup.com

LUCAN traders are being threatened with littering fines – for displaying traditional advertising boards outside their premises.

Council officials have sent letters to trad-

ers, warning them that the use of the boards is against council by-laws.

For traders, the inability to use the boards comes as another impediment to doing business in the village, following months of havoc wreaked by over-runs in water pipe replacement.

Amongst those affected is Darren Cleary, whose Deli King store, which provides gourmet sandwiches, meats and cheeses, opened just five months ago on Main St in the village.

The local businessman put the board up just outside the door of his shop three months ago, and says it has proved to be a huge success in

attracting customers.

But, two weeks ago, Cleary received a letter from South Dublin County Council, stating the he was to remove the board from the sidewalk or face a €150 fine under anti-litter legislation.

“I’m only new here in Lucan, and I don’t want to cause anyone any danger for the sake of an ad-board, but I have people coming in during the week asking why the specials aren’t out.

“I definitely saw about 20% of my turnover go down over the week from not having the board,” he said.

“You have to remember that I’m only open five months in Lucan;

I’m not established.

“I have 30 or 40 people come in every day who say they didn’t know we were here, so, for me, the ad-board is an important thing,” said Cleary.

“That said, there are a lot of good people in the village who tell me there is a demand for good food in Lucan.

“I hope to be in Lucan for many years to come, but a small thing like an ad board outside the building isn’t going to make that big a difference to the council.

“If the board is done tastefully, and is written properly, it doesn’t bring down the tone of the village – it actually enhances it,” he said.

Fine Gael councillor William Lavelle said that, while he was sympathetic to the plight of businesses, he urged traders to get licences for their boards.

“This issue has been raised at council level by myself in the past, and I was told by the council how businesses could regularise the issue, and I would urge them to get licences for the boards.

“If there are issues over the cost of these licences, then I will raise it at the October council meeting,” he said.

South Dublin County Council was contacted about this story but had not responded by the time of going to press.

8 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 5

PEOPLE Life coach takes full control of his health

Fighting Type 2 diabetes – and winning!

Q PAUL HOSFORD lucan@gazettegroup.com

A LUCAN man received some unbelievable news last week – he had beaten Type 2 Diabetes.

Brendan McDonagh, a local life coach, says that the news that he had the disease was scary, but didn’t view it as a death sentence.

“My own father had died from Type 2 Diabetes in 2004 and he suffered all of the things that you would expect, so it was a worry when I was diagnosed myself as a Type 2 in 2008.

“But the way that Type 2 is treated across the world, it is like putting a

plaster on it. And that’s not a criticism of the medical profession, it is just seen as a degenerative disease and it’s kind of seen as you’ll either contain it, or it will get you.”

For Brendan, this explanation didn’t quite pass muster. So he began to research the condition and came to the conclusion that, in his own way, he could begin to fight back.

“I researched the condition with doctors all over the world. I asked doctors in the US and all over about the condition and decided that I would try and make lifestyle changes to my lifestyle to

help treat it.”

Indeed, that was the plan but, just a year after his diagnosis as a Type 2 diabetic, Brendan suffered a major brain haemorrhage.

The type of brain haemorrhage Brendan suffered was so severe, that a full recovery is only seen in a handful of patients.

“I had a serious haemorrhage and while trying to recover from that, I didn’t let myself be distracted from the fact that I was still a Type 2 diabetic. So I continued to focus on my treatment.”

Battling a serious illness and a brain haemor-

Local life coach, Brendan McDonagh

rhage at once is a daunting prospect for anyone, but Brendan is convinced that the only reason he was able to come through was his own mental strength.

“It’s all about the power of positive thinking. When you get your head right, your body will follow.”

That power certainly got Brendan to the point of recovery when, last week, he received a letter

from his GP. “I had been back to my GP for a check up and he suggested that I take another glucose tolerance test, which is the test taken to ascertain whether or not someone has diabetes.

“Normally, people will only have one of these tests and most doctors won’t suggest a second one, but my GP, to his credit, did.

“Then, last week, I

received a letter saying that the test showed that I no longer have Type 2 diabetes.

“It was all lifestyle changes that did it for me, but it was all about getting my head right to make those changes.” says Brendan.

Brendan is still recovering from his illnesses, but is taking clients for life coaching. He can be contacted on 086 3809865.

COUNCIL

Credits system opened SOUTH Dublin County Council’s Social Credits System is now open for applications.

The Social Credits System rewards community groups who improve their environment by carrying out pro-environmental actions such as litter cleanups, maintenance of community gardens and removal of graffiti etc. The system provides practical assistance and advice to groups who undertake these actions and rewards them for their efforts.

The scheme is open to all community groups in South Dublin County Council’s area, including residents’ associations, voluntary groups, youth groups, primary and post primary schools and environmental groups.

Application forms are available on environment. southdublin.com or by calling into County Hall in Tallaght and the Civic Offices in Clondalkin.

6 LUCAN GAZETTE 8 September 2011

COUNCIL: COMPETITION FOR A USEFUL UTILITY

Win a free water butt SOUTH Dublin County Council is giving local residents the chance to win a water butt for their garden.

A water butt is a barrellike tank that can collect rainwater from your roof’s drainpipes when it rains. This rainwater can then be used for watering plants in your garden.

The butt has a capacity of about 190 litres, and is made from 100% recycled plastic. Water butts are designed so that they will not overflow.

To win the butt, simply go to www.sdcc.ie and

answer the question: “On average, how much water does one person use a day?”

Email your answer with your contact details to info@sdublincoco. ie, with “Water Conservation Competition” in the subject line, or post your answer and contact details to: Environment Awareness Section, Environment Department, South Dublin County Council, County Hall, Tallaght, Dublin 24.

The water butt competition runs until Friday, September 30.

IT’S YOUR STORY A Lucan-based low-cost

‘Supporting our mental health is so important’ A LUCAN counselling service, which recently became a fully-fledged charity, is hoping to increase the awareness of the valuable work they undertake.

Aspen Counselling is based in Lucan village, yet serves not only Dublin, but the surrounding counties.

Linda Balfe has worked as a psychotherapist for more than 12 years. She started in a voluntary organisation working in the Dublin 8 area, and it was during this time that she saw the need for counselling to be accessible to all.

Paula Richards is an accredited therapist with IACP, and is also a certified reality therapist with the William Glasser Institute Ireland. She works in the area of general counselling, but specialises in the areas of sexual abuse and eating disorders.

Richards also has training in suicide prevention and intervention, having studied Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training in order to help provide a suicide-safer community.

There are also more

than 20 other therapists, male and female, who work in Aspen on a parttime basis to provide the services.

Aspen has been in Lucan for 10 years, and offers low-cost counselling to everyone. Sessions vary from as little as €10 to €70 per session.

Balfe’s and Richard’s ultimate long-term goal is to provide the service free of charge, to try and meet the needs of the most vulnerable people in our community.

Generosity This won’t happen overnight and, as it costs a considerable amount to provide such a service, with Aspen being a nonprofit organisation, such a goal depends on the generosity of people.

Balfe says: “We understand that, often, the most vulnerable people cannot afford counselling, and get lost in the system. We don’t want anyone to ever feel they have nowhere to turn to.”

However, Aspen is seeing more and more people who are in financial difficulty, due to the current economic situation.

To date, Aspen has received a grant of €4,000 from the Family Support Agency, from their total fund of €10.6 million, to help meet the needs of a catchment area of more than 50,000 people.

Aspen are also grateful to Lucan Lions Club, who have also generously donated €3,000.

In response to this demand, Aspen have recently started fundraising initiatives, such as a sponsorship scheme where companies, groups, individuals or just a few friends or workmates getting together, can donate any sums of money, which will be used to provide free or subsidised counselling sessions.

Given Aspen’s commitment to continue providing low-cost counselling, every little helps.

Aspen is holding a ’70s/’80s fancy dress disco in the Spa Hotel, Lucan, on Saturday, September 24, as part of this year’s Lucan Festival.

This promises to be a great night and, with prizes varying from a signed Ireland football shirt to bottles of wine and gift vouchers, there’s some-

A relaxing, welcoming atmosphere is a given at Aspen Counselling

Therapist Paula Richards and psychotherapist Linda

thing for everyone.

Aspen is extremely discreet, and confidentiality is of paramount importance. Most clients won’t even see another client when they visit.

There’s no sitting, waiting around in the reception area to be seen – each client is met by their counsellor when they arrive, taken directly to their session room, and then seen out again at the end of the session.

Services Aspen offers a wide range of services, including bereavement/loss, stress/anger management/anxiety, childhood issues and trauma, depression, self-esteem/ confidence/assertiveness, work-related stress/bullying, emotional crisis/coping, relationship issues, and a variety of addictions, including internet, sex and food addiction, and many others.

Each case is assessed on its own merits by Aspen’s psychotherapists, who will then assign a counsellor to them from the staff of 20.

Aspen is working to raise awareness, and banish the taboo surround-

ing mental health in Ireland. Richards and Balfe, through Aspen counselling, want to make it easier for someone to seek help for mental illness issues.

Local Fine Gael deputy Derek Keating recently invited Balfe and Richards to Dail Eireann.

Speaking after Aspen’s Dail visit, Deputy Keating said: “Aspen Counselling continues to provide a very necessary service to the growing number of people who are seeking counselling because of the increasing number of difficulties in their lives.

“Given the financial circumstances of many people and families, the inclusion of low-cost counselling is of particular benefit.”

Should you wish to contact Aspen Counselling for consultation, please call 01 – 621 7063 or, should you wish to donate, please send a cheque to Bank of Ireland, Sort code 90-12-04, account number: 8077 6094.

Aspen are always looking for therapists to volunteer their time, so, if you are interested, please contact the organisation.

8 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 7

counselling service that’s there for the community

CLUBS: INVITE

A hobby that’s a real snap

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‘Aspen offers a wide range of services, including bereavement/loss, stress/anger management/anxiety, childhood issues and trauma, depression, self-esteem/confidence/assertiveness, work-related stress/bullying, emotional crisis/coping, relationship issues, and a variety of addictions, including internet, sex and food addiction, and many others.

‘Each case is assessed on its own merits by Aspen’s psychotherapists, who will then assign a counsellor to them from the staff of 20.’

Balfe, of Aspen Counselling, stress the importance of caring for one’s mental health

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PALMERSTOWN Camera Club meets for the first time, post-summer, on Wednesday, September 14.

The club has almost 80 members, all sharing the same interest to learn more about photography – as well as making new friends, too.

The club’s membership programme sees a mixture of guest speakers, workshops and monthly competitions.

T h e y m e e t e ve r y Wednesday night, September to June, in Palmerstown Parish centre, from 8pm to 10pm, as well as also going out on the third Sunday of every month on club outings.

If you are interested in joining the club, drop down any Wednesday night, or telephone Gerry at 086 245 8293, or Dee at 085 147 9802. For further details, see www.palmerstowncameraclub.ie.

8 LUCAN GAZETTE 8 September 2011

IT’S YOUR SHOT Marking three local economic milestones

This local girl showed her lovely face-painting

Mayor Catriona Jones praised the economic milestones

Kevin Clancy and Colm Massey, of Palmerstown Meats

Local businesses’ triple celebrations HERE was a triple celebration in Palmerstown recently when three neighbouring stores celebrated separate milestones.

As reported by The Gazette, an old-fashioned street party atmosphere took over the shopping centre in Woodfarm as Palmerstown Hardware

T

celebrated its grand opening, while Palmerstown Meats marked its first anniversary, and Reynolds Pharmacy celebrated a decade in business.

The Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Labour councillor Catriona Jones, was on hand to cut the ribbon on the front of Palmerstown Hard-

Hannah and Kirsten Looby

ware while her colleague, Cllr Eamon Tuffy, looked on.

Mayor Jones said: “The business owners in South Dublin work hard and provide a very valuable outlet for local people. I encourage people to shop local, think local and continue to support our local enterprises.”

Staff of Palmerstown Hardware were joined by Mayor Jones, Father Tommy and Councillor Eamon Tuffy to help mark their store’s milestone event

The staff of Reynolds Pharmacy

Piping-hot food was a big hit with the locals

8 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 9

10 LUCAN GAZETTE 8 September 2011

PROMOTING HEALTH Blue September Ireland is launched

Sile Seoige (Newstalk broadcaster) and Karl Henry (personal trainer) Taoiseach Enda Kenny (centre) with Bernard Jackman (former Irish Rugby International), Trent Johnson (Irish International Cricket Player), Lillian McGovern (CEO Marie Keating Foundation), David Rose (prostate cancer survivor), Fiona Gratzer (Unislim), Greg Allen (RTE sports broadcaster), Richie Flaherty (CEO Cancer Care West), Mary Moorhead (CEO The Mater Foundation), Sile Seoige (Newstalk broadcaster), Karl Henry (Personal Trainer), Michael Sheridan (CEO Mercy University Hospital Foundation), Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD and Gerry McEntee (consultant surgeon at The Mater Hospital)

Challenging men to face up to cancer HE official launch of Blue September took place recently with An Taoiseach Enda Kenny and a number of high profile supporters - encouraging men to face up to cancer. Blue September is a growing global initiative that encourages men to be more aware of their health and more pro-active in protecting themselves against

T

preventable and treatable diseases.

Blue September Ireland is encouraging those who wish to support the campaign to host a Blue event, by either painting their faces blue one day in September, hosting a Blue themed day in work or to create a completely new Blue idea to raise vital funds. Key Blue September events taking place across the

Munster rugby players Doug Howlett and Ronan O’Gara

country include the Dingle Marathon on September 3, the Kilmacud Football 7’s on September 17, the Blue September Dip in the Nip on September 25 and Blue September Comedy Nights in the Roisin Dubh Galway on September 7, the Laughter Lounge Dublin on September 29 and the Cork City Limits on September 30.

Ronan Keating from Boyzone

Members of the Leinster Rugby Team

Brian McFadden

8 September 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 8 September 2011

YOUTHS Young social innovators called upon to help make

Taking the

Emma McKeagney, Aoife O’Donnell and Katie Boyle took the chance to step forward as “local heroes” taking part in the Young Social Innovators Speak Out initiative, held earlier this year at The Helix

YSI – Young Social Innovators – is calling on young people in schools, youth reach and youth services to take up its challenge to change the world for good.

This year’s Social Innovation Programme is now open for all such organisations to take part.

Taking part in YSI provides young people with skills to innovate, with an emphasis on addressing social need and challenges they face in their communities.

So far, more than 50% of second-level schools have taken part in YSI programmes.

More than 5,500 teenagers from 220 schools throughout Ireland took part in YSI 2010/2011, working on a range of social issues, ranging from teenage suicide, sex education and LGBT rights to employment creation, promoting local tourism

and the illegal diamond trade.

They join the 35,000 young people who have taken part in YSI throughout its ten-year history, building on the registered charity’s success, to date.

Mount Mercy College, Cork City holds the title, Young Social Innovators of the Year 2011, for their project: Divert Your Stride from Suicide.

Achievements The team’s biggest achievement was in planning, organising and hosting a Suicide Prevention Conference in Cork, raising awareness of the issue of suicide.

They invited 600 Transition Year students from Cork schools to attend the conference, which featured presentations from various professionals such as a psychotherapists and lecturers.

Celebrities, such as

members of the Munster Rugby Team, attended the event, which was MCd by Paudie Palmer.

YSI participants have also helped to establish youth cafes, developed peer education programmes, bought equipment for their schools and communities, and campaigned and implemented award-winning programmes on issues such as mental health, road safety, bullying and alcohol abuse.

YSI has also launched a new Centres of Social Innovators programme, which has just completed a three-year pilot period, and which saw 21 educational institutions working with YSI throughout the pilot programme.

Their combined aim was to identify how schools and youth centres can provide opportunities, both within and outside the mainstream

8 September 2011 GAZETTE 13

a real difference with their lives, starting in the community

chance to help the world --------------------------

‘Communities around Ireland have been affected by the downturn. We have a huge resource in our young people.’

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Amongst those raising issues were (left) Colaiste Bride, Clondalkin students, Roisin McCormack, Nicola Lyons, Niamh Ellis, Miriam Balfe, Heather Sheridan, Katherine Casey

Sr Stanislaus Kennedy

and Jodie Kenney, and (right) Mount Sackville Secondary School, Castleknock students, Sinead Condren, Bairbre Dolan, Gemma Sinclair, Sarah Towers and Aoife Prendiville

curriculum, for all young people to become more involved in their community, through real action projects.

Launching this year’s Social Innovation Programme, Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, co-founder and chairperson of YSI, said: “Communities around Ireland have been adversely affected by the downturn in the economy.

We have a huge resource

in our young people.

“YSI gives a fantastic way and means to engage young people’s passion and energy in creating stronger, more vibrant communities.

“We encourage schools and youth centres to take part in the Social Innovation Programme, to allow this to happen.”

Rachel Collier, cofounder and CEO of YSI, added: “Creating the ways

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

and means for innovative learning is central to what Young Social Innovators does.

“Social innovation learning creates a culture of empowerment for young people – they take decisions around what social issue they will address, then go about exploring it and use their creativity to think through and respond to that issue.

“We need innovative

thinkers in all aspects of Irish life. In the same way that we need to stimulate and promote learning for innovation in business and enterprise, social innovation provides a way and means of actively and passionately engaging young people in their communities.”

In addition to tackling a social issue that matters to them, the young people involved in YSI will

be invited to advocate on their chosen social issue, and the innovative action they are taking, at a regional YSI Speak Out event.

Project teams will also be given the opportunity to apply to pitch their social innovation ideas to a panel of experts at the YSI Dragons’ Den. Professionally-delivered training is offered to educators from partici-

pating schools/centres, which enhances actionbased learning strategies, in the coming weeks in Dublin, Cork, Athlone and Donegal.

The YSI Social Innovation Programme suits all abilities and can fit into a range of subject curricula, including SPHE, Home Economics, Religious Education, LCA, LCVP and others.

Information talks on

YSI will be held over the coming weeks in Dublin, Portlaoise, Galway and Carlow. The Dublin talk will be held in the Dublin Education Centre located at Number 36, Parnell Street West, on Tuesday, September 13, at 6pm.

Full details and application forms are available at www.youngsocialinnovators.org, or by contacting Young Social Innovators at 01 6458030.

14 GAZETTE 8 September 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC Yes, he Ken: Local troubador releases his debut EP

George Clooney in Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?

COMPETITION: Win Oh Brother 10th anniversary edition IT DOESN’T bear too much thought, but it is ten years since the release of the classic comedy movie, Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?

The movie was memorable in more ways than one, spawning a Grammy-winning soundtrack album of bluegrass, gospel and Appalachian music that connected a whole new audience to traditional American folk.

Artists on the record include Emmylou Harris, Alison Krauss and the majestic Gillian Welch, who has added a date at the Grand Canal Theatre in November to her world tour.

To win a copy of this classic soundtrack, specially re-released to conincide with the tenth anniversary, simply answer the following question: Who directed the movie, Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?

Send your answer to competition@gazettegroup.com, with the subject line “Oh Brother”, before Friday, September 16.

SINGER/Songwriter Ken O’Neill, pictured right, has recently released his debut EP, Here Comes Another Night, a collection of five of his self-penned acoustic works.

Ken has played all over the world, from Germany, America, New Zealand and home again over the last ten years, and started writing his own material in 2009.

Performances at Electric Picnic and Whelans have seen Ken get more attention, and the new EP should do even more to get him on radio radars. His mix of Whiskeytown, Ryan Adams and Bob Dylan influenced alt-country need a bigger audience, and the five tracks are perfectly formed vignettes that reach beyond the local scene and should put Ken on the road to popular success.

For more, seemyspace.com/kenoneill2009.

REVIEW: STUNNING DEBUT FROM INTERNATIONAL COLLECTIVE

First stirrings from a Giant on the rise Q ROB HEIGH

IN THE current milieu, the vogue for band names seems to be the noun definite article noun combination - Portugal The Man, Foster The People, and so on. But among these cookie-cutter outfits are a stand-out band who are going to make some serious waves on the world stage.

Young The Giant are a five-piece whose overnight success has been achieved over the last seven years from their formation as The Jakes in California in 2004.

Hard graft since then has seen their status rise dramatically, culminating in recent months with appearances on the main stage at the Lollapalooza festival in Chi-

cago and a prestigious slot on the MTV Video Music Awards show last month.

All this would be moot if it were not for the fact they produce some simply fine music. Their debut, self-titled album came out recently, and confirms the faith that those who heard their breakthrough track, My Body.

In addition to that song, there are eleven tracks presented here that showcase the band’s diverse ability to create intimate and immense pieces of music that will capture many more converts along the way, and which hold the promise of a band capable of making the move to higher places on festival bills and arena stages in the coming years as they develop.

From the moment that your ears are captured by the understated beauty of opener, Apartment, to the anthemic closer, Guns Out, there is enough here to keep you engaged throughout. Touchstones like U2 and Coldplay abound in the sound the clattering drums and

Young The Giant

reverb-heavy guitars, as well as Sameer Gadhia’s vocals - but there is a greater depth and a more personal approach in Young The Giant’s way around a tune that should see them capturing many more fans before the year is out.

Captured is an apt word here, as I have to admit to expecting little until about 30 seconds into Apartment, when I sensed there was more than the usual whimpy indie emoting and blindingly bright guitar lines on offer here. Each

track is a work to return to again and again, and there is more at work in here than their detractors would suggest.

And, really, what’s wrong with trying to be huge, to become a band of U2’s stature? Ambition and reaching as many people as possible with your music isn’t that bad a thing to aspire to.

With Young The Giant’s live reputation growing and this debut’s promise, there’s every chance you will here more and more about them until they are truly global.

8 September 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

A simply beautiful and polished look for Kim WHEN model and TV reality star Kim Kardashian walked down the aisle to her NBA-player husband-to-be, Kris Humphries, she wanted to achieve a look that simply enhanced her normally glowing complexion.

In a Vera Wang gown and Lorrain Schwartz jewels, she oozed Hollywood old glamour and said that, like any bride, she wanted to look like a princess on her big day.

To top it all off, top make up artist, Mario Dedivanovic, used Lancome to carry the princess vibe into Kardashian’s cosmetics.

“She wanted to look like the most polished and beautiful version

of herself,” he says in a recent interview in People magazine.

When it came to highlighting Kardashian’s stunning features — especially the eyes — Mario used Lancome 5 Pan Eyeshadow Palette in Golden Frenzy.

“I swept the golden shade all over the lid, the darkest shade along her crease and the lightest shade I used on the brow bone to highlight. I swept the golden colours along Kim’s lower lash line for a super-soft smokey look.”

And to give her lashes beautiful length and volume, Mario says: “I applied two coats of Lancome Hypnose Doll Lashes mascara in So

Black.”

Finishing off the look, he defined Kardashian’s voluminous lips using YSL Dessin des Levres lip liner in Nude Beige and Lancome’s L’Absolu Nu lipstick in Coral Sand (a sheer peachy hue), adding a final touch of shine with Lancome La Laque Fever lip gloss in Ravishing Coral.

Get the look

Lancome Product Info: • Lancome 5 Pan Eye Shadow Palette in Golden Frenzy (as part of the Lancome 2012 Spring Collection, available on counter from January 2012): RRP €25.50 • Lancome Hyp-

nose Doll Eyes mascara (available from Lancome counters nationwide): RRP €25.50 • Lancome’s L’Absolu Nu lipstick in Coral Sand (Shade similar to Coral sand available nationwide is L’Absolu Nu Corail Evanescent 101): RRP €25.00 • Lancome La Laque Fever lip gloss in Ravishing Coral. (Shade similar to Ravishing Coral available from Lancome counters nationwide is La Laque Fever lip gloss in Bliss Coral 112): RRP €20.00 Yves Saint Laurent Product Info: • Yves Saint Laurent Dessin des Levers lip liner in nude: RRP €21.00

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Model and TV reality star, Kim Kardashian

16 GAZETTE 8 September 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day from around the capital

An unusual perspective of Bob Geldof is captured at the launch of Dublin Contemporary 2011 - Ireland’s International Art Exhibition

Gazette Contacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251

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.

From ceramic squid to a multi-TV mobile EARLIER this week Sir Bob Geldof and Jimmy Deenihan TD, Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, officially opened the Dublin Contemporary 2011 – Ireland’s International Art Exhibition.

Led by curators Jota Castro and Christian Viveros-Fauné, Dublin Contemporary is Ireland’s largest-ever art exhibition, turning the city into a vibrant art gallery until October 31.

Responding to the theme Terrible Beauty — Art, Crisis, Change & The Office of NonCompliance, the exhibition presents the work of more than 100 of the world’s most exciting artists.

The main exhibition hub at Earlsfort Terrace will show a variety of artworks in a range of unusual spaces including a six-metre-long ceramic squid by artist David Zink-Yi and an enormous crib with a multi-TV screen mobile by Chinese artist Wang Du. Visitors will also enjoy an intriguing series of street works across the city, sculptures in the Iveagh Gardens and exhibitions in the nearby Royal Hibernian Academy, The National Gallery of Ireland, Douglas Hyde Gallery and the Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane.

DIARY Golden moments for Barry’s fans HUNDREDS of Barry’s Tea fans from all over Ireland will get “15 days of fame” as they make an appearance on a limited special edition twin pack of Barry’s Tea Gold Blend this month.

Fans from Dublin were photographed as Barry’s Tea snappers

undertook a national Golden Moments Tour stopping off at SuperValu stores in Deansgrange, Killester and Skerries. Some of the Barry’s Tea fans from Dublin included Dublin Sea Scouts and karate enthusiast Maue Bibong.

The limited edition twin packs will be available in SuperValu stores this September.

Camille O’Flanagan, marketing manager for Barry’s Tea said: ‘While those that star on the box make up a fraction of our fans in Ireland, they do represent the passion and loyalty of Barry’s Tea drinkers all over Ireland. We wanted to celebrate this with SuperValu.’

For further information on the Golden Moments Fan Edition check out www.facebook.com/barrystea or barrystea.ie

8 September 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS Has your dog got the back-to-school blues?

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: PETS MAY FEEL UPSET, LONELY AND LEFT OUT AS NEW SCHOOL YEAR BEGINS

HAVE you recently stepped in little puddles of pee in the kitchen or found some chew marks in the new sofa?

Yes? Well, it’s no wonder; school’s back, and as Mna Na hÉireann breathe an audible sigh of relief, our four-legged friends are feeling less than overjoyed!

It’s no secret family pets benefit greatly from lots of TLC and walkies during the long summer months. But, once the new school term returns, our dogs may feel upset, lonely and left out. You see, one of the joys of being a pet parent means your family and your dog form a strong bond. However, if your dog becomes too reliant on this bond, he can become distressed when left alone, resulting in some out-of-character behaviour.

Just think about it for a moment. Your kids are your dog’s entire universe; his pack, and he adores them; and you as the parent are the leader of this pack. Your dog’s a sociable little thing that thrives on attention, so it’s not unusual for him to experience some form of stress when he’s apart from the pack. Geddit? Got it!

So, don’t be surprised if Fido becomes a tad destructive, he’s simply telling you he’s suffering from what we at the Dublin SPCA commonly refer to as ‘Separation Anxiety.’

Yep, while the school year can be a time of great relief and freedom for many parents, it’s tough on the old family dog. During the summer break, he’s become used to his favourite friends walking, talking, tickling and playing with him; then suddenly, he’s left alone for a large portion of the day, while the kids are at

school and mum and dad are at work. This can be very upsetting for him – often leading to mild depression, over eating or, in some cases, refusing to eat at all.

First of all, what are some of the signs of separation anxiety?

• Inappropriate behaviour like urinating indoors, destroying furniture, excessive barking are just some examples.

• Following you everywhere around the house, immediately becoming distressed if he can’t remain close to you.

• Becoming visibly anxious if you prepare to leave the house, for example when you pick up car keys or put on a coat, etc., • Digging holes in the garden.

• Excessive salivation.

• Chewing or self-mutilation.

What can you do to help your dog?

First of all, educate your dog from as early as puppyhood that sometimes, you may need to be apart from each other.

Happy dog

Every responsible pet owner knows their dog needs to be walked at least once a day. A well exercised dog is a happy dog. However, if mum and dad are busy, maybe a favourite grandparent, aunt or trusted neighbour would be happy to step in and spend some quality time with the family pet, giving him plenty of fresh air and socialisation.

Additionally, make sure your pet has a warm bed, dry shelter and plenty of food and clean, fresh, water. This is very important.

Some new toys are a good way of alleviat-

ing boredom for active pets, but must not be used as a substitute for exercise and attention. Check out your nearest pet store or the Dublin SPCA for a range of fun, stimulating toys and activity ideas.

Leave an item of clothing belonging to either yourself or one of the kids in your dog’s bed, so that he still gets his favourite friend’s scent.

Leave a radio on – the sound of voices can prove soothing.

About 15 minutes before you leave the house, try paying no attention to your dog and slip out without any fuss.

Do the same when you arrive home.

Come in, ignore your dog for a little while and then initiate contact when you’re ready. After all, you don’t want him to think his constant barking or acting out has brought you rushing home to his side.

Above all, remember, punishing your dog will NOT work if he suffers from separation anxiety, as his behaviour is a panic response and not a result of disobedience.

For further information, contact your vet or log onto www.dspca.ie or email miriam.kerins@dspca.ie Dogs can suffer from separation anxiety when the family heads back to school and work

18 GAZETTE 8 September 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS Eircom opts for Fiat Ducato fleet

EIRCOM, Ireland’s largest telecommunications provider has just taken delivery of a new fleet of 34 specially-modified Fiat Ducato vans for use by its technical crews around the country.

The new Fiat Ducatos will replace Eircom’s current fleet of Iveco Daily’s

and thanks to their frugal MultiJet engines, single-axle chassis and lighter overall weight.

The new vehicles will be considerably more environmentally friendly, fuel-efficient and costeffective for Eircom to run.

The high-roof, long-

wheelbase Fiat Ducatos have an increased four-tonne payload and are all powered by Fiat Powertrain Technology’s 3.0-litre, MultiJet, 160hp engine. Bodywork modifications include a roof opening for the SkyKing access platform and two smaller openings in the

load bay floor to accommodate the stabiliser legs. Both the platform and the stabilisers are powered by a hydraulic pump driven by the vehicle’s engine.

The Italian-made platform extends to a height of 12.5m, allowing technicians to work on Eir-

com’s overhead cable network in comfort and safety, and can be operated either using controls in the platform or via a second set of controls inside the vehicle.

Naturally, all SkyKing lift systems conform to the strictest EU safety standards.

Eircom has also taken delivery of 34 speciallymodified Fiat Ducato vans

Fiat due to unleash its new Panda FIAT will be unveiling its new Panda at the forthcoming Frankfurt Motor Show in mid-September.

The new arrival, which will go on sale in Ireland next spring, is an evolution of the small city car.

The new Panda has grown just a little bigger than the current model that it will replace, to give better safety and improve the level of passenger and luggage space.

The exterior of the new Panda shows a more rounded design. The interior will be more modern with more seat flexibility.

The new engine range emphasises new Panda’s cutting edge technology.

There will be a choice between two TwinAir twin cylinder engines, both equipped with Start and Stop as standard. The recently revised four cylinder 69bhp 1.2-litre Fire engine will be a further option as will the turbodiesel 75bhp 1.3-litre MultiJet 2 engine, also with Start and Stop as standard, will also be offered.

The new Panda will offer a Gearshift Indica-

tor, which helps drivers use the engine more efficiently and thus reduce fuel consumption.

At launch, the new Panda will be front-wheel drive only, but a fourwheel drive version is planned.

The new Panda has four airbags, ABS antilock braking with a brake assist system, front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, Isofix attachments for child seats, anti-whiplash front head restraints, rear headrests, and Daytime Running Lights – all as standard.

In addition, new Panda has been engineered to accept Blue&Me-TomTom LIVE, a device that combines the advantages of an infotainment system which is integrated and connected with those of a portable navigator, opening the doors to connectivity. The system allows new Panda customers to use mobile phones and media players in complete safety, without ever removing their hands from the steering wheel.

Fiat has new engine options and style changes for the 2012 Panda

The Ford Evos concept car introduced last week is the shape of Ford design and technology for the future

Ford’s future takes shape in its Evos concept car IS the Evos concept the shape of Ford’s future?

Ford unveiled the Evos Concept car last week in Berlin as part of a new phase in Ford’s first truly global design style.

The car is to make its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show next week.

The design took the shape of a new four-door, four-seat fastback concept with state-of-theart lithium-ion plug-in hybrid drive systems.

Most striking of all was the distinctive exterior and interior design.

The car is very much model of design aspiration. The Ford presentation was one of a futuristic car that uses the latest in technology to respond

to the needs and aspirations of the modern driver.

The Evos technology experience embraces a new generation of driver interaction and awareness that is currently under development in the Ford Research and Innovation laboratories.

It claims that with the car of the future there will be seamless connectivity between the vehicle and the driver’s ‘personal cloud’ of information.

This facility provides new capabilities for car designer and users.

Drawing from an understanding of the driver’s preferences and driving habits, the Ford Evos Concept claims to combine this personal

information with additional data from the cloud, such as the driver’s work schedule and local traffic or weather conditions. This information will aim to provide a personalised and seamless experience as the driver moves in and out of the car.

The Ford Evos Concept is also equipped with advanced air quality sensors and filtration systems to help allergy sufferers. Location aware, it can access air quality data from the cloud and proactively suggest a healthier route to the destination.

In dynamic driving situations, the vehicle may simplify the appearance of the instrument panel

to display only necessary gauge information and switch the driver’s connected smartphone to “Do Not Disturb” mode to help keep the focus of attention on the road.

Completing the vision for the Ford Evos Concept is a state-of-the-art lithium-ion plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain providing the same next-generation performance and fuel economy as the Ford C-MAX Energi scheduled for introduction in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013.

Ford ‘powersplit’ hybrid architecture allows the electric motor and petrol engine to work together or separately to maximise efficiency. The advanced power train typically

runs in all-electric mode before switching to charge-sustaining hybrid mode for continued optimal fuel efficiency.

Ford believes that cloud connectivity would provide further opportunities to enhance performance and efficiency by selecting the optimum combination of drive modes for any given journey.

In a design sense, this new concept car is a hint of the Mondeo of the future. Some have hinted that it could spark a return for a Capri type model. Either way, the Evos design with twin, gull-wing doors is stunning. If this is the face of the Mondeo of the future then let it roll on.

8 September 2011 GAZETTE 19

RoadSigns Road Signs RENAULT CREDIT NEW PLAYER IN CAR FUNDING MARKET:

Kia has a new version of the Picanto small car on the market with a very thrifty 1.0-litre petrol engine that’s smooth to drive and very well priced at €11,495 before delivery charges, for the entry version

Picanto packs a punch Kia’s Picanto has been revamped with new styling, better economy and safety features as MICHAEL MORONEY found out IA is on the move and the latest small car in the range, the upgraded Picanto, is a great small package.

I’ve had the car on the road in recent weeks and I fell for it almost straight away. The car comes with a petrol engine that would be the envy of many small diesels.

For a three-cylinder engine car, it’s smooth and pleasant to drive, a lot more so than many of the other small threecylinder powered cars on the market that I’ve driven. There are no hesitant spots in the acceleration curve and the engine sound is smoother than any others.

I didn’t expect to be so enthusiastic about the Picanto when I picked it up at Kia Ireland. I knew that I would be covering at least 600km; in fact it turned into more than 750km, which it so often does. A mere ten minutes behind the wheel and a

K

SPECS: KIA PICANTO 1.0 Top speed: 153 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 14.4 secs Economy: 23.8 km/litre (4.2l/100km) CO2 emissions: 99g/km Road Tax Band: A (€104) Euro NCAP Rating: 4 Star (2011) Warranty: 7 years or 150,000km Entry Price: €11,495

comfort zone took over; I knew that this car was good to go.

The engine has a rated maximum power figure of 69bhp, which is about average for a small 1.0 litre three cylinder car.

The acceleration figures on paper are about average; not the fastest. What was more significant to me was the smoothness of the acceleration.

So while it was getting from 0 to 100km/hr, the engine was smooth, as if it was almost a natural and effortless process.

That’s probably why I ended up with more

than 750km on the clock by the end of a few days driving. The car was also very economical.

The rated economy figure is 23.8 km/litre (4.2l/100km or 67mpg) which is diesel car type economy from a small petrol engine. That’s impressive. While it is matched by some of the other small car competition, I found that I covered the 750km and had almost half of the 35 litre tank of petrol left to spare.

The Picanto comes with a low 99g/km CO2 rating and it’s no wonder. This is one of the lowest running cost cars on the Irish market and the good news is that it’s very affordable. The entry price is €11,495 before delivery charges, only the Citroen C1, Nissan Pixo and Toyota Aygo beat it on price, and then only marginally. The bigger engine Hyundai i10 is a little more expensive.

The car has lots of useful kit. The entry level LX model comes with front electric windows, remote central locking rev counter and trip computer.

The EX trim version that I drove has extra features including air conditioning, steering wheel audio remote control, Bluetooth, front fogs and rear electric windows.

The car also came with eco features to enhance your driving such as gear shift indicator to let you know when to change up or down a gear to save fuel. I found the Bluetooth phone connection system simple to set up and reasonably clear to use, always a bonus in my book.

All that’s missing is a spare wheel in the reasonable size boot. There’s room for one; I just don’t like those tyre pumping kits; a space saver spare wheel is always better in my mind.

In an overall sense, the safety equipment on the

Picanto is impressive.

The car has 6 airbags (including side curtain airbags), ESC electronic stability control, HAC hill-start assist control, and ‘active’ front seat head restraints to protect against whiplash injury in a rear impact.

For additional safety, an ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) system is standard. Sensors detect when the driver is braking suddenly and hard and then flash the brake lights three times to alert following drivers that the car is slowing rapidly.

The Picanto received a 4-star rating in the latest Euro NCAP car crash test survey and I reckon that Kia are disappointed with this. The cars sold in Ireland all come with the Electronic Stability Control system as standard, but it’s not standard on Picantos sold across all versions in all European markets.

Euro NCAP rate the lowest specification

version on offer within Europe and, as such, they tested a version without Electronic Stability Control, hence the 4-star rating.

You can take it that the Irish Picanto models will perform to a 5-star standard in safety terms.

Then there’s the Kia warranty, giving 7-year or 150,000km cover even if you sell the car on, adding to the value deal.

Over the life of the car, low running costs and service costs combine to make this a very affordable car to own.

This new Kia Picanto has to be one of the best small car packages on the market today.

While this is a small car that’s not for everyone, but if you want good value, good performance and great economy in a small car, then you have to take a serious look at the Picanto.

And all that for an entry price that’s just over €11,400.

RENAULT Finance Ireland has opened its doors for business.

The new bank will help the Frenchbased car maker to get a greater share of the motor market as Irish banks tighten up on funds release.

Renault Finance Ireland opened with a competitive finance offer from 4.9% APR. This new bank will, according to Renault Ireland managing director Eric Bassett, make it more accessible for customers to purchase their new Renault car or van.

Renault Credit International Banque (RCI) and its launch in Ireland will see 15 new jobs created in operations, finance and marketing roles.

20 GAZETTE 8 September 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY MALAHIDE: THREE-BEDROOM ACCOMMODATION FOR €310,000

Mid-terrace manor in Malahide

Some of the style on offer at Belmayne

MALAHIDE: INNOVATIVE IDEA FOR NEW BUYERS

Rent To Buy scheme at Belmayne PURCHASING a home under a Rent to Buy scheme is becoming a popular concept in Dublin.

The Rent to Buy scheme is particularly suited to purchasers who are not in a position to fully commit to a purchase at this stage but who like the idea of having their rent put to productive use as part of the purchase price.

Hooke & MacDonald have pioneered this type of transaction in the city with considerable success over the last two years, and the latest scheme that they are bringing to the market is at Belmayne, off the Malahide Road beside the Hilton Hotel and close to the airport and M50.

This is a development in an established neighbourhood, with a landscaped courtyard within the development.

Hooke & MacDonald are now releasing ten apartments under the Rent to Buy scheme with a choice of one-, two- and three-bedroom units.

The list of standard features includes custom designed kitchens and wardrobes, tiling and good electrical specification.

At Belmayne 75% of the rent paid can be incorporated as part of the contract purchase price while enjoying the benefits of immediate occupation.

The 10 apartments now being released by Hooke & MacDonald are at rents from €750€775 for 1 bedroom apartments, €850-€900 for 2 bedroom apartments and €1,000-€1,050 for 3 bedroom apartments; prices are from €117,500 for 1 bedroom apartments, from €149,950 for 2 bedroom apartments and from €189,000 for 3 bedroom apartments.

They are on view by appointment with Hooke & MacDonald, on 01-631 8402.

PROPERTYTeam Noel Kelly Auctioneers are bringing No. 66, Inbhir Ide, Malahide to the market for an asking price of €310,000.

This instantly appealing three-bedroom midterrace home has been lavished with care and attention by its present owners, which is evident from the moment you walk in the front door.

The main features of the property are Upvc double-glazed windows, a 72-foot rear garden which is not overlooked.

There are decorative timber floors, and the property is sold with all carpets, curtains and light fittings Situated in a prime

Number 66, Inbhir Ide, Malahide, is presented to the market for €310,000

location, the property comprises a porch with an aluminium sliding door and tiled floor, an entrance hall with understair storage area.

The lounge has a decorative timber floor, as well as a feature fireplace with

hardwood surround.

T he kitchen-cumbreakfast area has a tiled floor, oak floor and wall units, as well as a cooker, dishwasher, extractor fan, and recessed lighting.

The bathroom has tiled walls and flooring, a

WHB, WC, and a Triton shower. There is also a mirror with light strip.

The three bedrooms are well appointed and have decorative timber floors and recessed lights.

The rear garden is 72ft

long, with a timber shed, a patio area, and an outside tap and external lighting.

For further details, and to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Noel Kelly on (01) 846 2752.

CELBRIDGE: FOUR-BEDROOM EXTENDED PROPERTY FOR €450,000

A Temple of luxury in Kildare village

COONAN Real Estate Alliance have brought to the market No 29 Temple Law ns, Celbridge, in Co Kildare, and is quoting an asking price of €450,000.

The property is a very impressive detached residence which has been maintained and extended by the current owners to a very high standard, creating a substantial family home.

The property offers bright and spacious well proportioned accommodation, comprising of three reception rooms, a kitchen with a sunroom off, which overlooks the rear garden, and four generous bedrooms, with a main bathroom.

Temple Lawns is a sought-af ter, mature development and is one of the most prestigious

addresses in Celbridge and this property would be suitable for any family buyers.

The accomodation comprises an entrance porch with tiled floor and panelled ceiling, and entrance hall with solid wood floor and guest WC, a sitting and dining room with a feature gas fireplace with marble inset and mahogany surround.

The kitchen/lounge area has a tiled floor, wall and f loor units, centre counter, spot lights, an oven and hob extractor fan, and a door to the garden and patio area. There is also a family room and utility room on the ground floor.

Upstairs are the four bedrooms, all with carpets and built-in wardrobes, and the family bathroom.

29 Temple Lawns, Celbridge is on the market for €450,000

Included in the sale price will be the carpets and linen blinds.

The additional features of the property include oil-fired central heating, double glazed windows, as well as being fully alarmed.

The property has a landscaped front and back garden, which

is very private with a sunny aspect and a patio area, and offstreet parking.

Temple Lawns is only a five-minute walk from Celbridge Main street on the Hazelhatch road and is only a short drive to Hazelhatch train station which has a regular service to Dublin,

is only a short drive to the M4 motorway and only a 30-minute drive to Dublin city.

For fur ther information on 29 Temple Lawns, Celbridge, contact Philip Byrne Coonan of Coonan Real Estate Alliance on 01 6288400 or philipb@ coonan.com

8 September 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Grainne O’Toole, Healing Waves

Mastering the art of healing therapies GRAINNE O’Toole is an emotional wellbeing coach who runs Healing Waves. Healing Waves offers a range of healing services, including, reiki, seichem, regression therapy and meditation.

Grainne is a reiki and seichem master and has been practising for the last 12 years.

Grainne also holds a diploma in training from NUI Maynooth and has worked training and mentoring sales teams for the last 20 years. Currently studying anatomy and physiology and holistic massage, she will offer a wider range of therapies in September.

Reiki is a gentle, non-intrusive treatment that works on either a broken bone or broken heart or spirit. Clients have enjoyed great success from having treatments. Based in South County Dublin, there are excellent rates currently on offer.

You can reach Healing Waves on 087 6539659 or find them on Facebook.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

INVESTING THE INHERITANCE Q – My late father recently left me over €150,000 in his will. This is all tax free, as I believe the current threshold is € 332,084 tax free from parent to child. I own my own house, I’m single, no dependants and no loans, plus I have other savings of € 35,000. I’m 49 and in a pensionable job – what do you suggest I should do with the inheritance? Mary – Dublin 11 A - You really have four choices. Firstly, leave entirely on deposit secured by the knowledge that the Deposit Protection Scheme will safeguard your funds up to € 100,000 per institution. Best rates currently ? A two-year Bank of Ireland account Double Your Money - offering 3% in the first year and 6% in the second (average 4.5%) and EBS with their 18-month 6.25% deposit account ( AER 4.12%).

Secondly, you could invest in the NTMA (National Treasury Management Agency) suite of investments - a government appointed body that manages all the government funds in An Post, National Solidarity Bonds, Prize Bonds, National Pension Reserve - all these products go under the banner of State Savings - where most of their deposit Reiki and seichem master, Grainne O’Toole of Healing Waves

products have better interest returns than the mainstream deposit takers. Even though their 10-

Q&A

year National Solidarity Bond attracts 47.3% NET on maturity, it works out at 5.41% gross per annum

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

A: Rich and famous.

is playing.

A: Keep an eye on my daughter

A: About 50, if you include

– the best deposit product in the market BUT you

Q: What sport can you play?

A: Years ago, I played basket-

in Australia on Facebook.

boots!

can still withdraw on seven days’ notice without

ball but now I just go to the gym.

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Fuengirola, nightmare!

penalty; only lose out on some of the interest.

Q: What was your first job?

A: Washing dishes in my

Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update?

A: The fact that said my daughter has finally secured employment!

Bad accommodation, crowded beaches and rotten food.

years, the stockmarket has seen the best return

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Chicken in creamy garlic

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Peace, quiet and a white

brother’s restaurant in Dublin.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: About £2 Q: When did you start your present job?

A: Started on this work about 12 years ago.

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Watching people grow and take control of their lives.

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

A: None, do it all myself!

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Any sport in which Ireland

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

A: The soundtrack of Mama Mia.

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

A: Jedward, better international profile by far!

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: Anything from The Priests to Jay Z.

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

sauce with cheese and garlic spuds.

sandy beach with cloudless skies.

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

A: Dame Edna, she might have

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: More of what I’m doing

some good fashion tips!

now!

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Dundrum Town Centre.

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

A:When I take my last

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

breath.

Thirdly, you could put a toe in a stockmarket investment. Over any 10-year cycle bar the last 10 of any asset class BUT it is a long-term investment.

Certainly volatile at the moment, with 2008 being particularly dangerous as Mark Twain once commented. But, with proper professional advice, you might invest a small percentage for the long term.

You might also include commodities such as gold, silver, oil in that investment.

Lastly, you could invest in yourself – start a home business or take early retirement and go full- time into your own business – you now have the capital. You even may have art or collectibles that you would like to purchase. Alternative investments are very much in as part of a diversified portfolio strategy, plus they can now be bought at reasonable prices.

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22 GAZETTE 8 September 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel

Farnham Estate is a state of relaxation MIMI MURRAY

Kids go free at Trabolgan this September

Trabolgan Holiday Village offering midweek and weekend breaks the whole family can enjoy TRABOLGAN Holiday Village is offering some great midweek and weekend breaks this September where kids go free.

The popular holiday destination is located in an idyllic and tranquil setting beside the sea in east Cork. It is a 140-acre venue, which has something for everyone. There is a safe and friendly environment for toddlers, a host of indoor and outdoor activities for energetic kids and teens and great entertainment, with lots of opportunities for mum and dad to relax.

The little ones will love meeting their favourite television characters and watching live performances from Fireman Sam, Barney the Dinosaur, Bob the Builder and his friend Wendy and Spud, as well as engaging in dance classes with Angelina Ballerina.

Meanwhile, older children can unleash their inner adrenaline junkies by trying out Trabolgan Adventure Sports, which include combat laser, abseiling, go-karting and zip wiring.

No trip to Trabolgan is complete without trying out the indoor sub-tropical swimming pool, with panoramic views of the Atlantic and the infamous wave machine.

Teamsters, the venue’s on-site entertainment team, will be on hand to make sure everyone has a fun time with games and sports tournaments during the day and live musical performances at night.

A four night, mid-week break or three night weekend break in the cosy Chesnut accommodation on selected dates costs €99 per adult and up to three children go free. Or choose from the larger Forest Oak accommodation and pay €124 per adult with up to four children going free.

Contact 021 4661551 for a full list of available dates as availability is limited.

FARNHAM Estate in Cavan is a mere 90minute drive from Dublin but feels a world away from the bustling city.

In fact, it feels deep in the heart of the country with lush greenery everywhere and lots of lakes and country walks situated on the Radisson Estate.

Let’s face it, the summer hasn’t been great so an extensive indoor spa really is a must when taking a couple of days away in Ireland. The Radisson in Cavan does not disappoint and we really chilled out over the course of our two day stay.

My sister and I stayed in the Farnham Suite, which is extremely spacious and overlooks some breathtaking farmland and forestry. It is situated in the old part of the hotel

The outdoor infinity pool

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

‘The Farnham Suite, is extremely spacious and overlooks some breathtaking farmland and forestry.

It is situated in the old part of the hotel and features a very nice stand-alone bath and an espresso machine, a must for all coffee junkies.’

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

and features a very nice stand-alone bath and an espresso machine, a must for all coffee junkies.

The smart restaurant was very busy the night we dined there. Staff were attentive and we ordered from the menu that was included in the price of our stay.

I started with a goat’s cheese salad which was very tasty while my sister went for pate. My salmon and my sister’s fillet steak were both nicely presented but we felt both had

been a little overcooked.

T h e n e x t d ay we indulged in some spa treatments. I went for their signature spa treatment which included a foot scrub, back massage and a facial. A treatment like this makes you feel like you have shed a skin and afterwards I floated to the relaxation room and sipped on some peppermint tea.

I know we were meant to chill out but my sister and I couldn’t help but indulge in some girlie

The Radisson Blu Farnham Estate Hotel in Cavan is surrounded by lush greenery and is only a 90-minute drive from Dublin

gossip before hitting the rest of the spa. The pool is great, with lots of room to lie around and read. It leads to an outdoor infinity pool which is also heated and was fabulous on a not-so-bad summer’s morning.

Treatment

The heat treatment rooms were a great way to detox and we went from one to the other, sampling what was on offer.

You cannot beat a decent sauna and we doused ourselves in the cold ice chips afterwards.

It was back to the room were we changed into walking gear and decided to attempt the longest walk on the estate. We wandered for a couple of hours along the stunning lake and never met another soul, so it really was a great way to get

away from it all.

Back at the hotel we had a quick snack at the bar which was very tasty.

We sat back to peoplewatch for a while.

My sister noticed a film crew and we were surprised to see Anne Marie Duff, best known for her role in Shameless, run through the corridors in her bare feet. They were shooting a movie in the hotel and it certainly added to the excitement of our day.

After a comfortable nights sleep, we dined on a vast buffet breakfast before taking another quick dip in the pool.

Then it was back to the hustle and bustle of Dublin feeling a lot more bright eyed and relaxed.

For more information see www.radissonblu.ie/ farnham-estate-hotel

8 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs Head to sunny shores of Malta and swim in secluded, pristine bays

ANYONE who is totally fed up with the grim Irish summer, or has attempted a staycation this year, there is still some late sun to be caught in Malta.

With direct flights from Dublin and Belfast, there are plenty of rays until the end of October.

Voted one of the top three countries with nearpristine bathing waters by the EU and with 87 monitored waters to choose from, 95% of which are of excellent quality to swim in, Malta has plenty to boast about.

Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden Bay to the west of the island are very popular with tourists and locals alike. The latter can be particularly busy at times but the quieter, equally pretty Gnejna Bay, on the other side of the verdant clay slopes, is just as beautiful to swim in with soft golden sand and warm waters. Ramla Bay, on the island of Gozo, offers an expanse of rich red sand and a sweeping view from the hills above.

Nestled in a more secluded place only a few minutes’ drive from the larger and very popular white-sands of Ghadira Bay in Mellieha, lies Paradise Bay close to Cirkewwa. Although it is isolated, it is still easily accessible, and has plenty of amenities to offer, being a particularly good place to snorkel and popular for weekend beach parties, the rock formations provide a fantastic backdrop to a relaxed swim. The most secluded bay in the Mellieha area however, is Selmun Bay, which is reached by a narrow winding country road bordered by cypresses and bamboo, with winding rubble walls leading to a stunning little cove with clear water overlooked by the historic Selmun Castle at the top of the hill.

Departing on September 27, stay in the five-star Le Meridien Hotel in St Julians for €573 per person on a BB basis. Or book with Belair and stay at the five-star Hilton Hotel, St Julians where you can enjoy three nights, including return airport transfers from just €295 pp or five nights including return airport transfers from €476 pp.

Check out www.visitmalta.com for more details.

Swim in October’s warm seas in the stunning UNESCO heritage city of Dubrovnik DUBROVNIK is another place to visit this October with sea temperatures remaining at a pleasant 21ºC. The stunning UNESCO heritage city on the Southern Adriatic Coast is a must-see destination. The charming old town of Dubrovnik lies within medieval walls and boasts a stunning main marble boulevard, baroque buildings, as well as the mysterious Island of Lokrum and the medieval town of Cavtat, accessible by regular boats from the old harbour. What’s more, the beautiful Adriatic Sea is still good for swimming.

Stay at the three-star Antuninska Apartments, located in a charming street leading off the main boulevard of the Old Town from only €399, per person.

Price includes return flights with Aer Lingus, including all taxes, transfers and seven nights accommodation on a self-catering basis.

Dates of travel are October 9, 16 and 21. Go to www.concordetravel.ie for more info.

A standard room at Farnham Estate

24 LUCAN GAZETTE 8 September 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Karl Spain FUNNYMAN Karl Spain will reveal some very Spain-ish habits when he takes to the stage at The Mill on Saturday, September 10. Famous for wanting to get a woman (and eventually finding one)he has performed on television all over the world, and even as far away as England. Catch Karl’s show at 8pm, with admission costing €16/€14.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Mountains to Sea DLR Book Festival NEARING the end of this year’s Mountains to Sea DLR Festival, a wide range of events are still taking place at its Dun Laoghaire base and surrounds, including this event, and many more ...

On Thursday, September 8, The Art of Eating will see an author lunch with Josceline Dimbleby, Catherine Fulvio and Domini Kemp, in conversation with Trevor White. Diners can enjoy delicious titbits on the art of eating, critiqueing food, and insights into the world of dining. Starting at 12.30pm in the Carysfort Suite of The Royal Marine Hotel, tickets cost €30, including lunch.

For further details, see www.paviliontheatre.ie/.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 My Way FINALLY this week, but definitely not least, My Way, by Garvan Gallagher, is running at Draiocht until November, and is a superb collection of thoughtful studies concerning fashion, aging and self image. The memorable range of photographs and video pieces can be seen on the ground floor gallery. For further details, see www.draiocht.ie/.

The cold moors can’t cool the growing ardour between Master Rochester (Michael Fassbender) and Miss Eyre (Mia Wasikowska)

Real Eyres and graces A genteel lost world blooms into life with ladylike manners in a handsome, perhaps definitive, production of Bronte’s tale Q KATE CROWLEY

NOT unlike a bookshop, this week, I am running a three-for-two offer, where I’m highlighting two main stories for your interest – and then chucking in another one that nobody’s really interested in, but which you can get for free at the same time.

First up, and speaking of bookshop stories, we have the delightful Jane Eyre, and the latest cinematic version of the timeless tale.

My own schooldays and time with Ms Eyre (and the nuns) being some time behind me, I’m a little forgetful of her tale, despite the literally dozens of films that have been made, to date.

However, this latest version, directed by Cary Fukunaga, is certainly one of the most handsome versions, bolstered by some great cinematography and a somewhat truer heroine than usual, in the form of

FILM OF THE WEEK: Jane Eyre ++++ (12A) 120 mins Director: Cary Fukunaga Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender, Jamie Bell, Holliday Grainger, Judi Dench

OUR VERDICT: KATE gets a bee in her bonnet – in a good way – about what she describes as “a superb version of the tale”. While Kate would find it difficult to tell Darty and Mr Darcy apart, she’s still entirely able to recognise what she calls “a class act”, which she insists that the young lady, Ms Eyre, very much is in this latest version of Jane Bronte’s tale, which is presented in style and grace, here.

Mia Wasikowska.

Much like Oliver Twist, or A Christmas Carol, or The Sound of Music, Jane Eyre is one of those tales that most will have a fairly broad knowledge and memory of.

However, to recap, and to note how this version is presented ... Told significantly in flashback, Jane Eyre tells of the eponymous heroine; a northern-English girl as plain as she is good, eking out a fairly wretched life in the mid-1840s or so.

Introduced in a dramatic dash across an unforgiving, bleak land-

scape, the young Ms Eyre is nursed back to health by a kindly young clergyman and his sisters, with key points of her life revealed in flashback.

It’s not long before the awfulness of Ms Eyre’s life is revealed; the meanspirited “goodness” that others have visited upon her, leading to her prim and proper job at a cold estate, where long days of nothingness tick away at Thornfield Hall.

As Master of the Hall, Fassbender has an equally cold disposition, perhaps beaten down by the wild and rugged moors sur-

rounding the house and its lonely inhabitants.

From this set-up, I doubt very much that any stout parson need bless himself when I reveal that love can bloom in the most unforgiving of climates, whether between a housekeeper and a master, the poor and the landed.

This version of Jane Eyre is notable for ditching much of the stuffy, purple prose that fills Bronte’s original, whilst still very much keeping to the spirit and veracity of her tale.

T he bombast and showboating of other versions is absent, and the clash of Actores fails to be observed – instead, Wasikowska and Fassbender quietly deliver a superb version of the tale.

As a second offering, and for something utterly different, off you go to see Troll Hunter (Cert 15A, 103 mins, or “Trolljegeren” for any Norwegians with

free time in Dublin this weekend).

I can only describe it as diverting Norse-sense, as a group of documentary makers head off into the wilds with their bright lights and shaky camerawork, keenly investigating what appear to be some bear killings.

However – and in what’s become my catchphrase this summer (“the clue is in the title”) – once they meet a crazed hunter, the “horrifying”, “terrifying” monsters of the hills are revealed. (Godzilla can sleep soundly, methinks.)

Tragically, for my third offering in this threefor-two review, time has caught up with me, so I can’t say anything about Peter Gabriel’s music concert film, New Blood (Cert G, 102 mins), other than it exists, and that Pete now looks like a dead ringer for Uncle Eddie (David Essex) in Eastenders. And, on that bombshell ...

8 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING Deus Ex’s new machinations Another weebyte DE:HR. (No insensitive pun intended, there.)

Indeed, Pistorius is nicknamed Bladerunner, in a nod to the augmented world of the iconic 1980s sci-fi film, which heavily infuses the dramatic art style and direction of DE:HR’s setting.

In this near-future world, Jensen, head of security at biotech company, Sarif Industries, becomes caught up in a terrorist attack on the company’s labs, seemingly designed to destroy its cutting-edge research.

After almost being killed in the attack, and then having much of his body replaced and upgraded with augmented limbs to save his life, Jensen is then set on the trail of the mysterious attackers.

He’s soon criss-cross-

Zynga won’t go public ... yet

In this game’s setting, humanity’s integration with robotic, upgraded body parts could usher in a new era of global peace and opportunity – or turmoil and anarchy

ing the world, following clues, all the while trying to work out what his shifty boss hasn’t told him, and all the time facing the dangers – and the opportunities – that a new world full of Augments is creating ...

DE:HR is largely of interest as it offers the player choices in how to

play through the game.

Almost all sections are completable by either going around all guns blazing, or just by sneaking around and quietly avoiding trouble, thus creating a game to suit the player’s individual style.

Add to that its player upgrade system, striking level and environmental

design, and a reasonably complex tale, and Deus Ex: Human Revolution manages to justify the hype and expectations.

It’s let down by some clunky controls, hit-andmiss hacking sections and an underwhelming finale, but, overall, it’s set a high quality mark for the next autumn releases to hit.

ZYNGA, the games company that’s singlehandedly turned half of Facebook’s users into field-tilling, milkingcrazed virtual farmers, seems reluctant to dabble on the stock exhange, as expected.

Despite widespread reports of its imminent floating as a public company, the recent downgrade for the United States’ credit rating appears to have momentarily spooked the company.

It’s now expected to delay this move until at least November – which should give it plenty of time to look after the (virtual) farm.

gazette

group

.com

NOW that summer has passed, the traditional mid-year slump in gaming releases has ended, with a range of high-profile releases gearing up for the post-summer period.

The first big title to come racing out of the traps is the just-released, multi-platform title, Deus Ex: Human Revolution (or DE:HR, for short).

Actually a prequel to an old PC title (and its less well-received sequel), DE:HR tells of a nearfuture world, as robotic implants – or augments – are slowly but surely becoming commonplace, with their users (Augments) gradually increasing in numbers.

With a range of vast biotechnology companies jostling for the holy

grail of mass-produced augmented parts that won’t need expensive drugs to genetically fuse with their human hosts, all kinds of conspiracies begin to bubble away.

Where Augments may benefit from limb replacements – such as war and accident victims – unaugmented humans and radicals oppose this potential step in humanity’s evolution, fearing a two-tier global society developing.

It’s a world that one could almost say we’re on the cusp of today, as the likes of South African athlete Oscar Pistorius, who has had a double amputation, and yet who runs at blistering speed on two artificial lower limbs, is but a step or two behind the world and the augmented humans portrayed in

www.

SHANE DILLON

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26 LUCAN GAZETTE 8 September 2011

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HOLIDAYS KIDS GO FREE THIS SEPT Book your 2011 Sept getaway at Trabolgan Holiday Village where KIDS GO FREE on selected midweeks and weekend self catering breaks. Pay €99 per adult (min 2 adults) and up to 3 kids go FREE. Call TODAY on+353 (0) 21 466 1551 or visit www. trabolgan.com

PLANNING NOTICE

PLANNING NOTICE

SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Fallowvale (in Receivership) intends to apply for permission for retention of change of use and amendments to previously permitted and existing development (Reg. Ref. SD05A/0313 (ABP Ref. PL. 06S.213052) as modified by SD07A/0842) at the Fire Station Building, Weston Aerodrome, Lucan, Co. Dublin. The development consists of: 1) Retention of Change of Use of 574sqm from Ancillary Fire Station Accommodation to Aviation Related Educational Use at ground and first floor level including associated modifications to internal layout and removal of Condition 3 of ABP Ref. PL. 06S.213052 (relating to sole use of the Fire Station for accident and emergency services only) to effect the same; 2) Retention of new mezzanine level (over first floor level) total gross floor area 280sqm including the provision of 3 no. Aircraft Simulators and use as ancillary Aviation Related Educational space; and 3) Retention of advertising signage on glazed entrance on western elevation. The planning application may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of South Dublin County Council, County Hall, Town Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24 during its public opening hours of Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 4:00pm. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to South Dublin County Council on payment of the fee prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the application

by South Dublin County Council.

Harry Corry Limited is applying for permission for the erection of a polyester powder coated aluminium back box sign with internal illumination and it will have a flexi-faced front. It will be positioned on the front of the building at 6,550mm above ground level. The external dimensions of the sign are 6,250mm wide and 1,700mm high and 300mm approximately deep. The sign will state ‘Harry Corry’ and will be erected at Unit 11, Retail Park West, Liffey Valley, Quarryvale, Dublin West.

This application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of South Dublin County Council during its public opening hours of 9am - 4pm, Mon-Fri, and a submission or observation may be made to South Dublin County Council in writing and on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt

by South Dublin County Council of the application.

HEALTH/WELL BEING

PLANNING NOTICE

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PROPERTY WANTED: Bulgarian, Turkish and Spanish Property.

Contact: 01-4847033

Susan McDonald is applying for permission for the demolition of single storey extension to rear, and its replacement with a two storey extension consisting of a kitchen, living room, hall and toilet on ground floor level, Bedroom on first floor.

This application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of South Dublin County Council during its public opening hours of 9am - 4pm, Mon - Fri, and a submission or observation may be made to South Dublin County Council in writing and on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt

by South Dublin County Council of the application.

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RECRUITMENT INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICIANS, Plumbers & Welders, Apprentice Electricians, Apprentice Plumbers & Welders, Scaffolders, Machine Drivers, & All Trades Men required for Dublin, Kildare, Meath & Louth. Send CV to info@clsrecruitment.ie SALES ADVISERS required to sign up Electricity and Gas customers to discounted rates. No exp necessary, full training provided. OTE €500/Week. john@billsave.ie or call 016619505

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8 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

AUGUST WINNERS:

Last month’s stars of Dublin sports are announced Page 29

SOCCERFEST 2011: PHOENIX PARK ONCE AGAIN HOSTING SOCCER INCLUSION EVENT

SARI back in the Park for great days of unity sport@gazettegroup.com

THE 15th annual Tesco Mobile SARI Soccerfest the largest intercultural soccer tournament in Ireland is teaming up with Concern Kitefest to present a fun, free event for all the family in the Phoenix Park, Dublin next weekend, September 10 and 11 from 11am to 5pm.

The festival will take place at the Garda & Camogie Sports

Grounds, just across from the entrance to Dublin Zoo. At the heart of the Soccerfest is a seven-a-side soccer tournament with 40 men’s teams from all over Ireland, with players representing more than 50 countries.

An All-Stars game, featuring celebrated sportsmen and women, will be held on Saturday afternoon, with SARI director Brian Kerr taking the referee’s whistle.

Simultaneously, at the Concern Kitefest, kite flyers from around the world will display their big and vibrant kites as well as hosting kite workshops for children.

In running this festival, SARI and Concern hope to promote integration and social inclusion in Ireland and create awareness of the issue of global hunger, which affects one-sixth of the world’s population, and is of particular relevance

SARI are once again running the hugely popular Summerfest event this weekend

in light of the current crisis in the horn of Africa.

Symbolic Tom Arnold, CEO of Concern Worldwide, expressed his delight in partnering with SARI again: “Concern hopes to fly 1,000 kites over the weekend to symbolise the huge importance of

good nutrition in the first 1,000 days of a child’s life.”

The two-day festival also includes a wide variety of entertainment for all the family, with teddybear parachuting, face painting, DJs, clowns, capoeira, sports workshops and demonstrations, African dancing,

drum circles, FAI soccer skills, and lots more.

Tesco Mobile Managing Director, Noel Burrows, said: “Sport Against Racism Ireland is a fantastic initiative and we are delighted to become involved with the SARI soccerfest.

“Tesco Mobile has an extremely strong ethnic

following in Ireland as it offers such low call rates all over the world so the sponsorship makes complete sense.

“We are looking forward to our first Tesco Mobile SARI Soccerfest in the Pheonix Park and would encourage people to come along and enjoy the weekend.”

28 LUCAN GAZETTE 8 September 2011

GazetteSport Sport

Clondalkin’s Ali Collier

Sprinting for the line

Garda’s captain receives the trophy at the end of the match

Paul Caffrey

Memorial match starts new season LONDALKIN paid tribute to a friend and club legend with a sterling come-back in the Paul Caffrey memorial game recently.

Clon trailed Garda by 33-12 going into the second half but tries from veteran Mark Molloy and 18-year-old Bobby Smith enabled Chris Jebb to level with a late penalty.

The teams may have shared the spoils but because they won last year’s tie, Garda get to keep the trophy.

Regardless, team captain and close friend of Paul, Colm Tighe, expressed his pride in the players who performed on the day.

“We paid tribute to a unique friend and a special man today and we put in the type of display he would have been proud of. I would like to thank all the people who came out and helped pay tribute to Paul.”

C

The full Condalkin RFC squad. Pictures: Sharon Flanagan

The team captains

Collie McHugh looks for an option

8 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 29

in association with

RUGBY: ST COLUMBA’S STAR FORCED TO RETIRE

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS AUGUST WINNERS IN ASSOCIATION WITH

STARof theMONTH

HANNAH TYRRELL ROUND Towers’ football star Tyrrell has been instrumental in the successes of both her club side’s intermediate ladies cup victory and in the successes of the Dublin ladies team in the Aisling McGing competition this term. The senior B side she leads took on Galway in the semi-final of the McGing tournament last weekend and they...

Ian McKinley lifts the Dublin schools’ trophy after his man-of-the-match performance for St Columba’s in 2009

Sad end to promising rugby career for Ian sport@gazettegroup.com

TEAMof theMONTH CASTLEKNOCK GAA THE dual codes at the Somerton club converged in success recently, with the senior sides in football and hurling achieving or closing in on promotion to the intermediate divisions of the Dublin leagues. With both of the football and senior hurlers achieving their destinies in their leagues, it is up to the club’s second tier hurlers to claim their promotion destiny.

AUTUMN has more than arrived, well ahead of schedule, and the sporting success of our teams and individuals continues to impress.

Hannah Tyrell has been an inspirational influence on her Round Towers and Dublin teammates for several years. Her place in the championship-winning side at club level was pivotal, and her part in the impressive progress through the Aisling McGing tournment has also been immensely important.

Castleknock GAA, for what is a relatively young club in GAA terms, have proven themselves hugely capable of taking their club to the

next level this year. Their community spirit, the development of their impressive new facility at Somerton Park, and the promotion successes of their teams is worthy of note.

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.

FORMER St Columba’s star Ian McKinley has been forced to retire from rugby following a severe eye injury, dating back to January 2010.

McKinley, 21, played six times for Leinster after making his debut away to the Dragons in May 2009, indeed, playing four times for the senior side last season, scoring a try in his Man of the Match display for the province in the league victory over Benetton Treviso in the RDS last February.

The Columba’s playmaker graduated from the Leinster Academy in May

with a HETAC diploma and was then rewarded with his first professional contract.

This was achieved after an incredible recovery from the serious eye injury, which happened in an All-Ireland League game for his then club UCD, against Lansdowne.

But complications with that injury have subsequently forced him out of the game at such a promising stage in his career, explaining the situation: “After the accident happened I was advised that a cataract would develop, but the surgeon was surprised that it did not happen until 18 months after

the initial incident.

“I was determined to overcome the temporary loss of sight and get back playing rugby so I was thrilled to return to training in July 2010, six months after the accident.

It was such a great source of relief to get the chance to pull on the Leinster jersey again.

“In May, though, I played a game for the Leinster Development side and I had to stop after 15 minutes because of blurred vision. I then sustained a detached retina a week before pre-season and three operations over this summer couldn’t save my sight in that eye.”

He informed Leinster boss Joe Schmidt of his decision last week and is now looking forward to embarking on challenges outside of the game.

“At this point I like the idea of maybe pursuing a career in coaching. I’m also exploring the possibility of going back to college and I’m currently in training with Jason Cowman (Leinster Strength & Conditioning Coach) for a triathlon in Portmarnock on September 24.

“I’m trying to stay positive because there are bigger issues in life that people face every day and everyone has been so incredibly supportive.”

Va-va-vroom!

Win tickets to see UCD in friendlies Charity showing of TT race movie

Villarreal finished UCD AFC have announced recently that fourth in last seasons La they will host two friend- Liga and so are qualifiers season’s Chamly matches at thedocumentary, Belfield for next THE thrilling Closer To The pions League.

As well Bowl against Scotland’s Edge about the 2010 Isle of Man TT festival as this, they have a wide St will Johnstone FC on July be shown at UCI Cinema, Blanchardof talented foot10,stown, and Spain’s Villarreal to range this weekend raise funds for ballers at their disposal CFthe on July 16.

Irish Cancer Society. The film will be with Barcelona St Johnstone shown in 3Dfinished on Sunday, September 11 attarget and former Manchester eighth in the SLP last 10am, and all tickets are €10. Tickets can player, Giuseppe season, and have long United be reserved by acontacting Frank Clarke on Rossi, on the top tradition in Scottish 086 277 9699, or email frank.clarke55@ of the list. football.

Former gmail.com, orplayers via www.mycharity.ie/event/ GazetteSpor t and include Sir Alex Ferguson tt3d_closer_to_the_edge_fundraiser UCD are giving lucky and Ally McCoist.

readers the chance to win pairs of tickets to these matches.

Simply answer the following question: Where was Villarreal striker Guiseppe Rossi born?

Send your answer, together with your name, address and mobile phone number, to sport@ gazettegroup.com, with “UCD Friendlies” in the subject line of the mail.

UCD’s Robbie Benson

30 LUCAN GAZETTE 8 September 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

RUGBY: BARNHALL’S CUP CAMPAIGN OPENS WITH DEFEAT

Garda RFC hosting a Leinster rugby day GARDA rugby club are hosting a club open day, as part of a Leinster branch initiative throughout the province, on Sunday, September 11.

In conjunction with Ireland’s first match in the Rugby World Cup and on foot of Leinster’s success in the Heineken Cup, 32 rugby clubs in the province have come together to hold a coordinated open day.

The purpose of the day is to introduce the club and social side of the sport to people who may not have played rugby before and encourage club participation. The day itself will be focused on a welcome for visitors both new and old, and events will range from tag rugby to children’s, youths, junior and veteran players and volunteers’ participation.

Summerfest set for next weekend THE 2011 Tesco mobile SARI Summerfest, the largest intercultural soccer tournament in Ireland, is set to take part this year at the Garda and Camogie Sports Grounds, in Phoenix Park on September 10 and 11 from 11am to 5pm each day.

The Summerfest will also coinciude with the CONCERN kitefest, where kite flyers from around the world will display their kites and give kite workshops for children.

The two-day festival also includes a wide array of entertainment for all the family.

For more information, see www. facebook.com/sarireland.

Castleknock Celtic seeking ladies talent CASTLEKNOCK Celtic FC’s ladies and girls section are recruiting new talent to the cllub for the soccer season starting later this month.

If you were born in 1996 or earlier, visit the club’s website at www.castleknockceltic.com, and pass on your name and contact details in the How To Join section provided on the site.

The club are also looking to recruit girls born in 2001/2002 to play soccer in the DubliGirls Soccer League.

Barnhall were unable to keep up with an impressive Seapoint when the sides met at Kilbogget Park last week

Loss in Shield for Blues LEINSTER SHIELD B Seapoint Barnhall

24 16

sport@gazettegroup.com

BARNHALL’S seniors got their Leinster Shield campaign off to a tough start as they fell to a tight loss to an impressive Seapoint, promoted from AIL Division 3 last term, in Kilbogget Park last Friday night.

It was a decent showing from the blue bulls, though, on an evening when their J1 side were also in action with both matches also coinciding with the club’s golf classic.

An early Simon

Gillespie penalty through Simon Gillespie had Barnhall in an early lead but sloppy presentation at a ruck allowed Seapoint a soft score down the touchline.

T he response was strong, though, and with good build-up play a well taken drop goal and a touchline penalty moved the visitors 9 -5 up.

Seapoint then owned the ball for the next 10 minutes for what must have been 20 plus phases of play.

With great discipline, Barnhall held out and turned over but, from the next lineout, they

lost both Barry Dunne and Brian Kenny with serious shoulder and ankle injuries, respectively.

Simon O’Shea and Shane Brennan came in as replacements and they held tight until half time with no further scoring.

They were enjoying superiority at scrumtime but another loose pass cost them dearly, going straight to a Seapoint hand to score a simple try and added the extras.

Peter Hall, coming in for the injured Shane Brennan, made an instant impact with the

ball in hand and, with the scrum continuing to prosper, Seapoint saw their second prop forced off, leaving the set-piece uncontested.

In a bruising encounter, Barry Smith suffered a suspected dislocated hip, one which took 15 minutes to deal with as he was forced to go to St Vincents and served to break Barnhall’s forward momentum.

The game restarted and saw the Bulls switch off with a try coming from an uncontested scrum move which was conver ted lef t them with a lot to do with the clock ticking away.

A great run from Rob McGrath from almost the halfway saw a vital try scored under the posts and converted at the final whistle but the scoreline of 24-16 did not do justice to the tight-knit nature of the game.

The result puts Seapoint in control of the group following their defeat of Navan a week earlier, 24-7, with nine points from their two outings while Barnhall must still play the Co Meath side as well as near neighbours Naas.

In the J1 tie, the side’s shared the spoils in a 5-5 scoreline.

Ryan named in Ras na mBan team sport@gazettegroup.com

CURRENT Irish National Time Trial champion Caroline Ryan heads the line up of a star studded Womenscycling.ie team for the An Post Rás na mBan which gets underway on September 14.

The Garda rider is best known for her National 3km Pursuit record and her 10 mile Time Trial record but is no mean road racer as she showed in finishing third in the National Road Race Championships in Emyvale.

She is joined in the Irish squad by Fiona Meade, Cait Elliott, Francine Meehan, Melane Spath and Laura Banfield for the event which celebrates its 25th anniversary of international women’s stage racing. The race is headquartered for the fourth year in a row at Sneem Hotel.

Meade has been a consistent performer at national and international level for many years and the Corkwoman’s noted sprint finish will be of value in any group finishes in Kerry By contrast, Elliott is best

known as a star on the mountain bike scene but the WXC World Racing Team rider has experience of previous editions of Ras na mBan and will not be daunted by the challenging hills on the this year’s five-day event.

Meehan was a member of the successful Irish squad which supported Olivia Dillon to victory in Sneem 12 months ago and the Tullamore woman has had another great year of elite level training and competition as the pilot of Catherine Walsh’s tandem in World Cup

Paralympic competiton, including a bronze medal in Italy.

Spath is, like Elliott, one of the country’s top mountain bikers and the German born star has focused more of her activity on the road this year competing with distinction against male competition at several of the country’s toughest stage races during the year.

Having won the County Rider classification on a number of occasions it would be no surprise if the Cycleways supported rider has loftier ambitions in An Post Ras na mBan this year.

8 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 31

in association with

LEINSTER: TOWERS’ LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP TILT

CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS THERE WAS disappointment at the

Don’t forget the Premium Ticket

end for Dublin’s minor hurlers, but

Draw, which is attractive way of

what a journey!

being in with chance to see the

Hard luck, but well done to Chris

football finals. Entries available

Crummey, Matthew McCaf frey,

from Paul McGann, the bar, or any

S e a n i e Mc Cl e l l a n d a n d Em m e t

mentor.

O’Conghaile and the entire panel.

Lucan club shop is open again after

These Leinster champions did us

the Summer break. Opening times

proud all year.

are Tuesday and Thursday eve-

List for tickets for All-Ireland

nings from 7:30pm to 8:30pm, and

football final is now on the club-

Saturdays from 10:30 to 11:30am.

house notice board. Tickets will be

See website for sale prices.

allocated by draw.

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 10,

Championship action next Sun-

13, 16 and 18 . There was no winner.

day for junior A and B hurlers at

Next week’s jackpot is €1,500 with

12th Lock.

Shay Hurson’s team in charge.

Fun day for all the family in 12th

Do not forget you can alwa ys

Lock is on Saturday, September

enter our Lotto online by clicking

24.

on www.lucansarsfields.ie.

Gala Ball is Sat 12th November.

Deposits being taken at bar.

Thanks to Carey’s Newsagents who are this week’s sponsor.

ST PATRICK’S, PALMERSTOWN Round Towers’ Intermediate ladies team are looking forward to their first round match. Pictures: GAAPics.com

Ladies set for Leinster challenge in Longford sport@gazettegroup.com

ROUND Towers’ boss Paul Burke says his ladies footballers are in rude health ahead of their trip to Longford on Sunday as they take on Colmcilles in the first round of the Leinster intermediate championship.

It is a new adventure for many of the side as Towers annexed their first county championship in over a decade and they hope to make it a memorable one.

“The last time we won a county championship was 13 years ago so it is a new experience for everyone, getting a bus there and the lot,” Burke told GazetteSport.

“Some of the girls have experienced things like this with university teams or county sides but, for the girls are putting it in at the club week in, week out. This is something new – the whole carnival atmosphere which goes with it.”

Their training regimen has been augmented by a few innovative training sessions, one on Donabate beach and another at the Curragh for a three-hour work-out with the army.

The Clondalkin club reached this stage by virtue of their stunning victory over Clontarf in the Dublin final last month and, while the build-up to that tie saw numerous injury worries, the side looks set to report a clean bill of health.

“We’re shaping up surprisingly well,” Burke said. “We had three cup games that I didn’t think would see us in the form, never mind the shape, and we came through them pretty well. We played a challenge game last week as well which didn’t go so well but there’s no harm in that.

“We had a lot of concerns going into the county final. Natalie Behan has just been representing Ireland in the Aussie Rules competition in Australia

and was only back last weekend so she is a huge addition to have back.

“The Dublin senior B girls and Maria Kavanagh are available as well. Our goalkeeper Emma Redmond had a lot of injuries leading up to the county final as well but she has a clean bill of health so that’s a huge player for us.”

And they will need some stellar performances against a side who claimed the Leinster League junior title in May but Burke says that a big support base will see them raring to go come game-time.

“It’s coming along nicely, we’re not over con-

fident, but looking forward to it. The word back about this Longford team is they’re very strong. They won the Junior championship last year and are going very well in Longford.

“But based on the turnout for the county final, obviously it’s a longer spin down the road, I’d be expecting a good crowd.

Everyone involved in the club was there and it was great to see, the atmosphere was electric.

“Anyone I spoke to afterwards who might have been a little apprehensive beforehand really enjoyed it so we’ll hope to build on that.”

OUR U-8s and U-9s played St Mark’s

fair result.

and St Anne’s, while the U-11s and

Junior hurlers are away in the

12s lost to Liffey Gaels and Clann Na

championship this Sunday to St

Gael. Our U-15 hurlers had a good

Oliver Plunkett’s at 3pm.

mid-week win over St Peregrine’s,

Our jubilee golf classic takes place

and a weekend draw against Na

this Friday, September 9 in Lucan

Fianna.

GC. There are three places avail-

In camogie, our U-11s had a home

able in the morning and one in the

tie with Bray, where the visitors

afternoon. To book a spot, phone

scored a goal midwa y through

Pat on 087 238 3294 or Paddy on 087

the first half and could have been

617 1435.

further ahead at half-time, only

Good luck to St Pat’s players, Liam

for some fine work by Lisa in goal.

Rushe and Damien Gallagher and the

Mid-way through the second, Pat’s

Dublin Under-21 hurlers in the All-

persistance paid off when Jessica

Ireland final against Galway in Sem-

Scully slamed home the equaliser.

ple Stadium this Saturday at 7pm.

Pat’s had many chances late in the game but, in the end, a draw was a

To view our website simply logon to www.stpatricksgaa.ie

WESTMANSTOWN GAELS/GARDA THE Intermediates lost away to Oliv-

manstown for distribution of tour

er Plunkett’s in the league on Satur-

gear and the final briefing. Attend-

day evening.

ance is mandatory for all travelling.

Training continued for all teams at usual times in Westmanstown.

September Blitz in Beechpark – Westmanstown Gaels are organizing

Ladies lost a home league fixture

a blitz over six evenings in Septem-

to Kilmacud last Monday evening.

ber. This blitz will be held in Beech-

Training is on Monday, Wednesday

park on September 12, 14, 16, 19, 21

and Friday at 7pm.

and 23 from 6.30 to 7.45pm, and will

1986 team reunion at Westman-

be for U-7s and U-8s. All children,

stown on Friday, September 16 at

whether members of the club or not

8pm.

are welcome to participate. Remem-

The New York trip is just three weeks away. All money should now be

ber to tell your children to bring along their pals.

paid in full for all travelling. There is

Family Ceili Night is on Saturday,

a meeting of the tour group on Tues-

September 17, the night before Dublin

day, September 20 at 8pm in West-

win the All-Ireland.

Follow GazetteSport on Facebook and Twitter and at www.gazettegroup.com

ALL SPORTS COVERAGE FROM27-31 PAGE 27-31 ALLOF OFYOUR YOURCASTLEKNOCK LUCAN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE

NEW GANG BULLISH START: IN ’TOWN: Barnhall Westmanstown show solid form host Leinster in opening schools’ Leinster rugby Cup blitz tie P30 P28

MAY 26, 2011 SEPTEMBER 8, 2011

AUGUSTSTARS: SUPER AWARDS May award Monthly winners nominees revealed inside P29

GazetteSPORT

Ireland’s women became the inaugural winners of the AFL International Cup last week with stellar performances in Sydney and Melbourne

Ryan aids Ireland’s World Cup victory Just months since taking up AFL, Lucan resident wins with the Irish Banshees as they claim International Cup STEPHEN FINDLATER lucansport@gazettegroup.com

LUCAN resident Nicola Ryan became an Australian Rules world champion last week when she helped Ireland to claim the inaugural women’s International Cup in Melbourne with a 39-8 victory over Canada.

It marked an incredible rise in the sport for Ryan who took up the sport earlier in 2011 having previously participated a smattering of rugby, tag rugby and mountain-biking.

But, having moved to the area, she took up the sport with the Dublin Angels and quickly picked up the skills enough to warrant an Irish trial in April.

With Ireland only making their international debut in the sport a year earlier in Milan, it has been a sharp learning curve with a number of players switching from different codes like ladies Gaelic football, rugby and soccer.

Captain Amy-Louise Hazley, meanwhile, was among a group who have played AFL in Austral-

ia with the Bondi Shamrocks whilst travelling, picking up invaluable first-hand experience.

And it showed as the side hit the ground running in Sydney with group game victories over Canada, Papua New Guinea and an indigenous Australian side, notching over 100 points in the latter tie.

It saw Ireland qualify for the knock-out stages in fine fettle, facing a physically imposing USA side in the final four.

Quicker One of the hallmarks of the Irish side throughout the tournament, though, was their speed away from the contact areas, using their sleigther, more agile frames to devastating effect.

It meant a repeat showdown with first opponents, Canada, another side known as “big girls and hard-hitters”.

But the Irish side were not to be bullied and they wrote their names into history as the first winners of the women’s International Cup just

as the men had done nine years earlier.

They built an 11 point lead courtesy of Nuala O’Hagan’s goal after the first quarter but the Northern Lights reeled in that margin to four at the big break.

Two further goals in the third quarter made it 24-8 and when the Canadians had a player sin-binned for striking Hazley, the Irish Banshees belted another pair of goals to wrap up the famous win.

For Ryan, she admitted it was an “amazing experience” and one which she never envisaged she would experience.

“I’ve been to Irish games as a supporter but to be wearing the jersey and singing in the anthem was amazing.

“Also, to be the first women in the event was great and I’d like to think that, along with the strong men’s league in Ireland, that the game will only get bigger.”

The next challenge is the second Euro Cup with trials taking place ahead of an October throw-in to the competition.