Lucan GAZET TE FREE
YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER
INSIDE: Nick Munier helps promote local counselling P8-9
Beautiful blushers to suit every skin type BEAUTY: P16-17. RECYCLE THIS COPY. KEEP DUBLIN TIDY.
September 29, 2011
APPOINTMENT: Lucan Disability Action Group’s new manager P6-7
Floss love: Kids tuck in at the Lucan Festival WITH delicious candy floss to tuck
Rugby: NUIM Barnhall set for All-Ireland League action Page 32
in to, it’s no wonder that Anna, Grace and Ben momentarily lost interest in the Lucan Festival 2011 – but only for a moment, as this year’s festival was a great success. With so much more than “just” candy floss to enjoy, there was something to tempt everyone in the community over to the village centre for the fun-filled days, as the festival proved a great success. Picture: Joe Houghton
See Gallery on Page 10
Sports Awards: September nominees are announced Page 29
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 MOTORS ........................19 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26
Norris beats SDCC to make it to Aras race Council’s refusal to back him can’t stop comeback kid
Q PAUL HOSFORD
IN WHAT marked an incredible comeback, David Norris will be on the presidential ballot – but only after South Dublin County Council’s refusal to grant him a nomination turned the last 24 hours of the nomination process into a scramble
for the embattled senator. On Monday evening, following a motion put forward by Independent councillor Guss O’Connell to nominate Senator Norris, councillors voted 12 against, and 11 for, with three abstentations. Of those co-opted onto the council this year, the voting
went four to one against Norris. Fianna Fail’s Trevor Gilligan, who voted in favour of Senator Norris, said he got “numerous calls and emails prior to the vote from residents of South Dublin” who, he said, wanted him in the race for the Aras. Full Story on Page 2
2 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 September 2011
EDUCATION Principal calls for the protection of special needs education
‘Spirit of Animal Farm alive in Leinster House’ A LOCAL school principal has called on the Government to protect special needs education in the country. Tomas O’Dulaing, principal, Griffeen Valley Educate Together National School, said that the Governmentimposed cutbacks were “devastating”. “Last week saw the return of children with special needs to our primary and secondary schools. “These vulnerable children were greeted on day one of their new school year with a devastating array of cutbacks that, collectively, constitute a hammer blow to their potential development,” he said. “They had 10% of their one-to-one
resource-teaching hours hacked off; their special needs assistant (SNA) support halved or eliminated – and all of this in classrooms with a further increase in the pupil-teacher ratio.
Human right “Children with special needs have the human right to fulfil their potential in our education system. The shameful attacks on these vulnerable children engaged in by Fine Gael and Labour amount to a savaging of that basic human right. “What kind of Ireland do we live in when those of our citizens that need to be most protected are casually dumped aside so that the gambling
debts of a section of our super-rich can be waived and set aside?” he said. O’Dulaing turned his attention to An Taoiseach, invoking George Orwell. “Our Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, bleats on disingenuously about children with special needs having access to support. “Animal Farm will never be dead while this kind of double-speak pollutes the political airwaves. “With the ‘Mr Jones’ of Fianna Fail and the Greens having just vacated the farmhouse, the new rulers, ‘the pigs’, now trot out the same line and attack our most vulnerable, having
decried the same measures prior to taking over in the farmhouse of Government. “Their breath-taking hypocrisy is only matched by the casual brutality of their attacks,” said O’Dulaing. “Meanwhile, in the other official Ireland, populated by the true supporters of austerity and fiscal responsibility, Nama-Ireland scours the globe looking for debts to pick up after the obnoxious splurge engaged in by many of our super-rich. “Billions here, and further billions there – there is no austerity to be applied in the other official Ireland. “Not so, however, with children with toileting needs, with Autism or
Asperger’s, with emotional or behavioural difficulties, or, indeed, with multiple difficulties. Here, we are told that a handful of millions must be saved to rescue our country from bankruptcy,” said O’Dulaing. “We, parents of children with special needs, and teachers and SNAs working with these children, ask ourselves: ‘Do they lie to us, or are they so surrounded by their own smugness and hypocrisy in Leinster House that they cannot see the madness of their own words?’ “At 4pm on September 14, we gave our returning politicians a fitting welcome back to the farmhouse of power in Leinster House,” said O’Dulaing.
PRESIDENCY: FOUR CO-OPTED COUNCILLORS VOTE AGAINST NORRIS AT SPECIAL MEETING
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In the race despite the SDCC vote
‘I was asked to vote yes and my job is to do what the people of Clondalkin say’
Q PAUL HOSFORD lucan@gazettegroup.com
evant, he should be on the ballot paper as a lot of people wanted to vote for him. “I was asked to vote yes and my job is to do what the people of Clondalkin say.” William Lavelle (FG), who voted against the nomination, said that Fine Gael had directed their councillors to support their candidate, Gay Mitchell. “The directive was to support our candidate and not to support or facilitate any other candidate. “In my own principled view was that I would not support David Norris. “I felt I had to take a principled stand,” said Cllr Lavelle. But following the crushing South Dublin disappointment, Norris received the backing of Waterford City Council and Dublin City Council and will join Sean Gallagher, Gay Mitchell, Michael D Higgins, Mary Davis, Dana Rosemary Scallon and Martin McGuinness on the ballot paper on October 27.
IN WHAT marked an incredible comeback, David Norris will be on the presidential ballot, but only after South Dublin County Council’s refusal to grant him a nomination turned the last 24 hours of the nomination process into a scramble for the embattled Senator. Norris supporters had been confident that he would find a sympathetic ear in SDCC’s chambers, with the Senator having spoken to the council before the summer break. S i n c e t h e n , h owever, the landscape has changed, with Norris withdrawing from the
race on foot of a letter he had sent in 1997 in support of his former partner, Ezra Nawi, before re-entering the race in recent weeks. In addition, the entrance of Sinn Fein candidate Martin McGuinness into the arena meant that their councillors were less likely to vote for Norris, who has been a Trinity College Senator since 1989. On Monday evening, under the gaze of the national media, South Dublin County Council met to discuss a motion put forward by Lucan councillor, Guss O’Connell, “That South Dublin County Council, exercises its right under the Presidential Act, 1993, section 16, to nomi-
nate Senator David Norris to be a candidate for the Presidential Election to be held on the 27th October 2011”. The motion was seconded by Tallaght councillor Mick Duff (Lab) and went to a roll-call vote in a surprisingly quick meeting. Labour Cllr Chris Bond, who was co-opted onto the council in March, began the voting by supporting Norris, but the final results would read 12 against, 11 for with three abstentions. In fact, of those co-opted onto the council this year, the voting went four to one against Norris. Therese Ridge (FG), Matthew McDonagh (SF) and Emma Coburn (FG) abstained from vot-
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Councillor Trevor Gilligan
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Presidential candidate Senator David Norris did not secure the SDCC nomination
ing, drawing the ire of Labour’s Dermot Looney, who voted for the nomination. Speaking on Twitter after the vote, Looney said that he could not understand abstentions. “I voted for, but respect councillors who voted against – many with good reasons. Abstention is absolutely bizarre.” The voting went nominally along party lines,
with Fine Gael and Sinn Fein voting en masse to block the nomination, with all of their councillors either voting negatively or abstaining from voting. Fianna Fail’s four councillors, Clondalkin’s Trevor Gilligan, Rathfarnham’s John Lahart, Tallaght Central’s Eamonn Walsh and Tallaght South’s John Hannon, all voted for Norris, and were joined by Cllr O’Connell, People Before Profit’s Gino Kenny and five Labour Party councillors. W hile the Labour Party were the biggest bloc supporting Norris, they also had four councillors voting against him – Breeda Bonner, Eamon Tuffy, Caitriona Jones and
Paddy Cosgrave. Trevor Gilligan (FF), who voted in favour of Norris said that he did so because of the prevailing feeling amongst his constituents. “I got numerous calls and emails prior to the vote from residents of South Dublin. “I had to make sure that they were from residents of South Dublin but the general feeling was that people wanted Senator Norris in the race. “There were more people that wanted me to vote for than against.” Councillor Gilligan said that the point was not about whether Norris wins the election or not. “Whether he wins the election or not is irrel-
29 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 3
FUNDING: ASSOCIATIONS TO BENEFIT IN LUCAN
€1,900 boost for residents Q PAUL HOSFORD lucan@gazettegroup.com
An Intel-igent initiative: Company takes Chambers’ top award for its clever idea on supporting volunteering INTEL Ireland general manager Eamonn Sinnott (centre) was delighted to collect an award for Intel at the recent eighth annual Chambers Ireland Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) awards, which were held in Dublin. The Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government,
Phil Hogan, and Ian Talbot, Chambers Ireland chief executive, presented Intel Ireland with the European Year of the Volunteer Award at the event, thanks to its donation of more than $1 million over the past three years through the company’s Matching Grant Programme. The programme is aimed at
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A NUMBER of local groups will this week be celebrating after South Dublin County Council awarded grants to residents’ associations in Lucan. Hayden’s Park Residents’ Association and Brookvale Residents Association will each receive €500 for environmental improvements, while Castle Riada Drive Residents’ Committee will get the same sum for start-up costs. Finnstown Abbey Residents’ Association will receive €400 as part of a community and activity grant. Fine Gael councillor William Lavelle was delighted with the awards. “In recent months, I have been actively
supporting many local residents’ associations and community groups, including supporting them in applying for grant support from South Dublin County Council. “I am delighted that a further €1,900 is now proposed for distribution to four more Lucan residents’ associations. Tuesday’s Lucan Area Committee meeting approved these grants. “In these tough times, it is even more important than ever that we support local voluntary efforts in the community. “We are fortunate in Lucan to have so many fantastic residents’ associations and community groups, and I am absolutely committed to continuing my work in supporting these important groups who form the backbone of our community,” said Cllr Lavelle.
4 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 September 2011
Leixlip’s €600k facility LEIXLIP residents were on hand to see the unveiling of a state-of-the-art gym at Leixlip Amenities Centre recently. The new gym cost more than €600,000 to build. Roy Baker, the centre’s chairman, thanked Paul Condron, the centre manager, and Michael Stack, vice-chairman, for all of their work in delivering the gym, and also thanked Michael Quinn, from FAS, for supporting the centre for the last 25 years, and Gina Douglas, from AIB Bank. Paul unveiled a plaque in memory of Ray McCauley. The plaque is to be erected at the centre’s allweather pitches. Ray was a founder member, and was one of the main drivers in getting the centre up and running. The new gym was officially opened by Deputy Catherine Murphy, Ind. She said that the centre now had first-class facilities, and said that it had come a long way in 30 years. Deputy Murphy said the icing on the cake would be a swimming pool, and said that the Leixlip Amenities Centre is the preferred site for the pool in north Kildare. She praised Paul Condron for his work in delivering the new gym along with Caroline Gaffney, assistant manager; Deirdre Creed, Nicola Hughes and Thomas Slattery.
TRANSPORT Minister suspends Metro West order
Brakes slammed on Metro project Q LAURA WEBB
lucan@gazettegroup.com
THE planning process for a multimillion euro railway system in west Dublin – Metro West – has been shelved until the country’s finances improve. The Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar, confirmed he has suspended the planning process for Metro West as funding for its construction “will not be available in the foreseeable future”. On the advice of the N a t i o n a l Tr a n s p o r t Authority, Minister Varadkar instructed the Railway Procurement Agency to withdraw its application for a railway order from An Bord Pleanala. “I have suspended all planning works for Metro West, and the An Bord Pleanala oral hearing, which was due to commence next month, will now not proceed,” said Minister Varadkar. The proposed rail system, connecting three Dublin West suburbs – Tallaght, Clondalkin and
Blanchardstown – to Dublin Airport, was to be procured as a Public Private Partnership (PPP). According to Minister Varadkar, a significant Exchequer contribution would also have been required which, he says, is “challenging”. “The successful awarding of a major PPP contract involving private funding is challenging at any time, but particularly in the current circumstances. “No major PPP project has secured funding since the financial crisis began three years ago,” he said. “Metro West has always been considered a longterm project, and many of the new communities it will have to serve have not materialised, due to the collapse in home building. “This does not mean that Metro West has been cancelled. However, with very limited funding available for capital projects over the next few years, I did not consider it to be a good use of taxpayers’ money to advance Metro West any further through the planning process. “By the time we are able to build, it’s likely
For now, the Metro West project remains on the drawing board, with the planning process suspended
that planning and environmental laws will have changed, and railway technology will be different. So, we would then have to go back over it all over again anyway. “Metro West will be examined again at a future stage, when the country’s finances have improved,” said Minister Varadkar. He went on to say that the Government is considering which, “if any”, rail infrastructure projects will proceed as part of the review of capital spending. This could see Metro North put on hold, and also the Dart Underground. In the proposed plans, Metro West linked up the Tallaght Luas line, travelling through Clondalkin, crossing over the Liffey parallel to the West Link, and continued through to Blanchardstown. M e a nw h i l e , l o c a l Lucan Fine Gael council-
lor William Lavelle, who welcomed the announcement, has tabled a motion for the October meeting of South Dublin County Council seeking to scrap the Metro West development levy scheme. The scheme, passed in 2009, sees charges imposed on all developments granted permission in areas within one kilometre on either side of the proposed route. He said: “On foot of this announcement, I feel it is imperative that local authorities act speedily to rescind any Section 49 development levy schemes currently in place for Metro West. “I will be asking all parties on South Dublin County Council to support my motion to scrap the Metro West levies, now that we have muchneeded and welcome clarity from the Minister for transport,” said Cllr Lavelle.
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‘This does not mean that Metro West has been cancelled. ‘However, with very limited funding available for capital projects over the next few years, I did not consider it to be a good use of taxpayers’ money to advance Metro West any further through the planning process.’
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Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar
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29 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 5
BOOKS: LEARN ABOUT TOWN’S HERITAGE
Celebrating Celbridge Q HIROMI MOONEY
THE retired principal of Scoil Mochua primary school in Celbridge is to launch his second book about the history of Celbridge. The book, A History of Celbridge, by Tony
CEREMONY
Dublin Bus funds charities LOCAL groups received a boost this week as Dublin Bus awarded grants to more than 100 charities and community groups in the Greater Dublin area ranging from €1,000 to €5,000 under its Community Support Programme. Now in its eighth year, a special recognition ceremony held in Croke Park was hosted by RTE personality, Mary Kennedy, with special guests, Minister of State with responsibility for Public and Commuter Transport, Alan Kelly, and chairman of Sunderland FC, Niall Quinn, who honoured the shortlisted groups for all their hard work and their valuable contribution to their local communities.
Awarded €5,000 Local groups that received money included Palmerstown Boxing Club, who were awarded €5,000. Alongside them, LGBT Synergy, Cumas, Dublin Bus FC, Sonas Housing Association, Clondalkin Travellers Development Group a n d R e t i r e d A c t i ve Men’s Social (RAMS) all received €1,000, while St Patrick’s GAA, Deansrath Community Garden and Lions Basketball Club received €2,000 each.
Doohan, will be launched by Dr Patrick Walsh, of University College Dublin, on Thursday, September 29 in Scoil Mochua’s school hall. Doohan first published A History of Celbridge in 1984. The book explores the story of Celbridge
from the earliest times to the present day. The history of Ireland is mirrored in the rich historical events of Celbridge’s past.The book costs €12, and all proceeds will go towards the provision of educational resources in Scoil Mochua.
PEOPLE: LUCANIAN IS BEST DRESSED AT THE RDS
Local girl winner of a Tatler award Q STAFF REPORTER
A LOCAL girl, Siobhan McHugh, was crowned (or shall we say, “sashed”) Best Dressed for Tatler magazine at the Ultimate Girls’ Day Out event, which took place in the RDS last month. Siobhan, who has recently launched her own fashion and image styling company, called Styleuphoria.com, said: “I was so happy to win Best Dressed for Tatler magazine. It was such a fantastic surprise. “I had to walk down the catwalk, and all I can say is the catwalk is a lot longer than what it looks like.” Even the winning dress is Lucanian in its roots. “I bought the dress from Lisa Baker Boutique in Lucan,” said Siobhan. She has spent many years working in the fashion industry, helping people to find their style, and helping to rebuild their confidence. Siobhan’s most recent position was as a styling teacher and personal shopper for Stylefish, who had much success on Dragon’s Den last year.
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‘I was so happy to win Best Dressed for Tatler magazine. I had to walk down the catwalk, and all I can say is the catwalk is a lot longer than what it looks like.’ --------------------------
Siobhan McHugh
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Speaking about her new business, Siobhan was excited about the new venture. “Styleuphoria is about reaching a euphoric state of happiness with your style. We provide services in personal shopping, colour consultation, wardrobe weeding and group image consultations, to name but a few services. “Over our lifetime, our body continually changes shape, and this can leave us feeling confused, deflated and overwhelmed when shopping. “I am here to show people that knowing and understanding your body shape can completely transform how you view yourself, and how you present yourself to others. “It can open up a whole new world of style and make shopping fun again,” she said. To find out more, see www.styleuphoria.com.
Siobhan McHugh smiles for the camera as she takes off down the runway at the recent Girls’ Day Out event at the RDS, at which she was named Best Dressed
6 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 September 2011
YOUTHS
Volunteer for cafe
CHARITY Lucan Disability Action Group marks a new
‘It’s about
MEGABITES Youth Cafe in Griffeen Youth Centre is looking for local people to make a contribution to their valuable work. The cafe is looking for volunteers over the age of 18, who will be fullytrained by the centre’s staff. They are looking for help with their haven for young people, which enjoys many themed and gig nights with all the best local music. For more information, contact the cafe at 01 621 7640, or email lucanyouthservice@gmail.com.
Q PAUL HOSFORD
lucan@gazettegroup.com
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Aoife Finne, the new manager of Lucan Disability Action Group
LUCAN Disability Action Group entered a new phase in their 11-year history this week, with the appointment of Aoife Finn as the new manager of the group. Aoife, a former local authority access worker, enters the group at a time when demand for its facilities and services is at an all-time high. While the original plan was to address the issues specific to Lucan, the service now has more than 500 members, and serves areas as far apart as Lucan, Palmerstown and Clondalkin, Castleknock, Blanchardstown, Chapelizod, Leixlip, Maynooth, Kilcock and Naas, even going as far as Howth. Amongst the services they provide are afford-
able, accessible doorto-door transportation, which enables their members the opportunity to participate in education, employment and social events; a personal assistant for those members engaged in third-level education, and a handy worker, who is available to carry out gardening and light maintenance for members.
Accessibility As well as this, the group carries out accessibility audits of new and existing buildings. Chairman of the group, Joe Mooney, was delighted to welcome Aoife to the role. “We’re coming on to a different era; we’re in different times, economically, and we have a number of challenges ahead, and I feel that,
with Aoife’s knowledge and background that, hopefully, we can ride the storm, as it were.” As for the ongoing work that the group does, Joe is confident that the “Action” part of the name is being carried out, 11 years on. “We called it Lucan Disability Action Group because we didn’t just want to be a group that meets – we wanted to do something, and to take some kind of action.” With that in mind, the group set about securing dipped kerbs, disabled parking and other accessibility features in Lucan village, before setting about getting their own forms of transport. “We initially rented a van for a while, before applying for a grant from our local TD at the time, Mary Harney, who was then Minister
29 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 7
phase with the appointment of a new manager
removing barriers’ --------------------------
for Enterprise. “She was very good in her time, and was always very supportive of our work,” says Joe. The fleet of vans now numbers seven, and are available for a nominal rate for people to get to and from work, school and social occasions, and can even be taken for a stretch of days, to allow families go on holiday. One of the cornerstones of the group’s work is allowing the members be independent and live their own lives. The practical elements of the group allow people to do simple things, which can come as a huge help, says group secretary, Jimmy Murray. “It’s all about barriers, and some of those are invisible barriers. A lot of things, such as being in a van for four hours – a
‘It wasn’t about talking about disability issues, it was about identifying barriers and putting actions in place to remove those barriers’ -------------------------Aoife with Joe Mooney, chairman, and Jimmy Murray, secretary
lot of people wouldn’t even think about as a barrier.” The new addition to the group, Aoife Finn, picks up that sentiment. “The service is about what the barriers are, and looking at what is preventing people from living their lives totally independently. I sup-
pose what attracted me to the group was that it is action-focused. “It wasn’t about talking about disability issues, it was about identifying barriers and putting actions in place to remove those barriers. “Some of the actions we have put in place
have, in part, removed some of the social exclusion,” says Aoife. With latest figures showing that some 70% of people with a disability are unemployed, the group’s personal assistant scheme, which affords members the chance to attend thirdlevel education, is a huge
Aoife Finn
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boon. “The way to get into employment is increase your education standard, and people with disabilities can do that; there just needs to be a system in place to help them do that,” says Aoife. Looking to the future, all three are confident that this new dawn for
the group will be a bright one. “I suppose that we’re in different times, and we will look at ourselves and continue the key areas that we offer,” says Joe. “ I t h i n k t h e ke y strength of the group is that it’s member-led. The members decide what should, or shouldn’t, be done.
Charity “We are a registered charity, and could be described as a public service. It is very unique, but very much in demand,” says Aoife. “We’ve had great support from day one from local businesses, and the Lucan Lions’ club have done a brilliant job for us so for us. “This is something of a relaunch, in terms of awareness,” says Jimmy.
CELEBRATE
In praise of Pieta’s helpers THIS year is the European Year of the Volunteer, and Friday, September 30, is the National Day of Volunteering.. On that day, Pieta House is to celebrate the wonderful work their volunteers do on behalf of the suicide prevention charity. Locals are invited to the volunteer celebration on Friday, September 30, in the Limerick Room, Lucan Spa Hotel, between 7.30pm and 10.00pm. Refreshments will be served on the night, as the sterling work of the selfless volunteers is celebrated. It will also be an opportunity to bring along a family member or friend who would like to join the team of volunteers. For further information on the work of Pieta House, see the website at www.pieta.ie.
8 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 September 2011
EVENTS Masterchef judge Nick Munier in Lucan to launch a
Deputy Derek Keating, with Karl Melvin and Brendan Lynch
Offering support and guidance
ASTERCHEF judge Nick Munier was in Lucan recently to launch a series of talks for men being run by Aspen Counselling. Aspen Counselling is based in Lucan village and serves not only Dublin but the surrounding counties. The talks were free of charge and formed part of the activities for the Lucan Festival,
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which ended this week. Aspen is a not-for-profit organisation and welcomes donations. Should you wish to contact Aspen counselling for a consultation, please call 016217063 or, should you wish to donate, please send a cheque to Bank of Ireland, sort code 90-12-04 account number 80776094.
Nick Munier
Paula Richards, Garda Alice Kennedy, Linda Balfe and Ger Kennedy
Linda Balfe and Alan Fox
Nick Munier, masterchef and Linda Balfe, Aspen Centre
Christina Keegan and Anita Courtney
Deputy Keating, Karl Melvin, Nick Munier and Brendan Lynch
29 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 9
series of talks for men being run by Aspen Counselling
Denise Munier and Trudi Carberry
Deputy Derek Keating and Paula Richards
Stephen Murray and Paul Paula Richards and Brendan Kane
Costello
Linda Balfe and Liam Lynch
10 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 September 2011
IT’S YOUR SHOT Local’s look at the long-awaited event
Anna, Grace and Ben tuck into a tasty staple of any community festival – delicious candy floss. Pictures: Joe Houghton
Capturing the fun of Lucan Festival AZETTE reader Joe Houghton was only too happy to help share some of the community fun in Lucan last weekend, when the keenly-awaited Lucan Festival once again took over the town. Building upon the success of previous festivals, the event’s organisers certainly set out to banish the current economic gloom hanging over the country, with a wide range of the diverse activities found in the Lucan area. Joe’s colourful photos highlight some of the family-friendly events and scenes that were a hit on the day, as all manner of
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fun activities and stalls were set up around the village centre, highlighting some of the great community spirit found in Lucan. The lizard petting zoo was a particular favourite for many, and there were several beautifully groomed birds of prey to be seen at a falconry demonstration. Meanwhile, eagle-eyed locals pinned their gaze on the ducks floating down the Griffeen river in the village centre – rubber ducks in the race, that is, while, nearby, the Garda horses were another star attraction. Joe certainly captured some of the memorable sights of this year’s great festival.
Locals were spoilt for choice with this year’s festival, which, to name but a few events, included a lizard petting zoo, a falconry demonstration, a duck race, several garda events, and much more
29 September 2011 GAZETTE 11
12 GAZETTE 29 September 2011
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These diets often focus on low-fat foods, but the truth is that it is not the fat in your diet that is making you fat! In fact, you need fats for a number of metabolic processes, including fat-burning. The good news is you can actually turn your body into a more effective fat-burning machine without the need to go hungry by simply eating the right foods in the right quantities. When participating in a LCD, people are often advised to eat more carbohydrates (carbs), which are low in calories. A lot of carbs are termed high Glycaemic Index (GI). Eating high GI carbs causes a spike in your blood sugar levels and, when your blood sugar rises, this causes the pancreas to respond by secreting insulin. Insulin is the sugarregulating hormone that works to store sugar in cells as fat. When insulin does its job well, sugars are quickly stored as fat, causing your blood sugar levels to plummet and leaving you hungry and tired. Ingested fats and proteins, however, do not
cause this same insulin response and so are more likely to keep your blood sugar levels balanced. On a LCD, people will often tend to avoid proteins because of their higher calorie content. This means overlooking the fact that, to digest and absorb protein, your body has to use 25% more energy to break it down than it does for simple carbs. This is known as the thermo-genic effect. Protein is also vital for building muscle and, if you want to stay lean and fat-free, then you want to keep the body “anabolic” or building muscle. Your body is naturally designed to be lean – it’s not designed to be overweight, sick and unhealthy and, if you eat the right foods, your body will tell you when you are full so you won’t have to go hungry. Optimum
Your diet should constitute a reasonable mix of proteins, fats and low GI carbs. Real foods that will keep your blood sugars in balance, and provide you with optimum nutrition, are those foods that can be found in nature. They can be either picked, gathered, milked, hunted or caught from the sea. In short, if it doesn’t run in a field, swim in water, fly in the sky or grow in nature then you probably shouldn’t be eating it! Derry Temple is a qualified nutritionist and provides free nutritional guidance to his fitness clients. This month, Derry is offering readers of The Gazette the opportunity to Bring a Friend along for Free to any of the DT Fitness Bootcamp courses. Visit www.dtfitness.ie for more info.
29 September 2011 GAZETTE 13
GazetteMUSIC MUSIC REVIEW: A DYNAMIC AND INVENTIVE BREAKOUT ALBUM FROM NEW YORK-BASED SINGER
Veneration is due for Clark’s third album Q ROB HEIGH
It’s not often that you come across an act on the basis of a cover version. But when that act is brave enough to cover one of the most abrasive and angular songs from one of the most abrasive and influential underground acts of the last 30 years and nail it, you know there is something special about them, especially when that act is St Vincent. Steve Albini’s Big Black were a corner-
stone of industrial hardcore before it became fashionable in the early Eighties, setting off an incendiary device built on melody, grinding rhythms and ferocious attitude. Their standout track from 1986’s Atomizer was Kero sene, with its uncompromising subject matter and interpretation, was underpinned with a propulsive beat and guitars like a chandelier shattering on marble. For anyone to attempt to cover it is brave
enough, but to capture its essence of ennui and fury is hugely impressive. Played out live in New York in may, Kerosene in Annie Clark’s hands was as direct and bludgeoning as it was in Albini’s, and it provided an insight into the direction her music was going. Clark has been a member of the euphoric psychedelic rockers, Polyphonic Spree, as well as being a touring par t of Sur f jan
St Vincent’s Annie Clark on stage earlier this year
Stephen’s band. Emo types will have heard her work with Bon Iver on a track that appeared on the recent Twilight soundtrack, but don’t let that put you off (the Twilight connection, of course, not Bon Iver, who is responsible for easily the best record of the year so far).
St Vincent are Clark’s individual presence on record, and Strange Mercy is as individual and unique a record as you are likely to find. Previous records, Marry Me and Actor, have illustrated Clark’s talent as a multi-instrumentalist, bringing woodwind and baroque
arrangements to the playing field, but her new record, Strange Mercy, meshes all the best elements of her previous work while simultaneously peeling the wallpaper with squalling guitar and synth figures that utterly surprise and delight. There is a beauty in
the arrangements and a sometimes symphonic pop sensibility that is shifted sideways by the uncompromising accompaniments and production. T here is so much going on in every track that you are always on your toes while listening, waiting for the next twist, and it’s an immense pleasure to say that of any release, especially faced with a selection of cookiecutter one-note acts one has the pleasure of reviewing in any given week. This is work of some immense imagination and skill, easily the best of St Vincent’s three records to date, and should give Clark some breakout success, especially if you go and buy Strange Mercy now, which you really should.
14 GAZETTE 29 September 2011
GazettePETS PETS
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
THE FACTS: TEACHING ANIMAL WELFARE IN SCHOOLS
Is having a classroom pet a good idea? WE’RE only a couple of weeks back into the new school term, and I’m inundated with calls from teachers asking my opinion on classroom pets. And, while it’s to their eternal credit that these lovely educators are interested in ensuring their students see them as a model of responsible pet care and are willing to ask advice – my opinion is, and always will remain, the same when it comes to this subject: I strongly discourage classroom pets for many reasons. And here is why: Classrooms can be noisy and frightening places for animals and it’s difficult to look after any pet’s needs in this type of environment. This applies to all animals, including goldfish. While pets are an excellent way to add enrich-
ment to a young child/ teen’s education and development, I believe responsible pet care and animal welfare can be taught in schools without keeping animals captive. Studying an animal in its natural environment should aim to cause minimal disturbance whilst maximising educational opportunity. So, why not set up bird houses and feeding stations around the school yard, but please continue the feeding programme throughout the year. In my humble opinion, there needs to be an explicit animal welfare education rationale for using animals in education – and legislation relating to animals must be considered in the development of all programmes of study. Where animals are kept
in schools, proper provision should be made for their physical and mental wellbeing. I would strongly disagree with any school or college that may decide to use a classroom pet to increase their attendance figures with the understanding that, if students don’t attend, the animal will not be fed or taken care of. And yes, this scenario is hard to believe, but a teacher did suggest this to me as a way of bumping up attendance. I absolutely believe this to be an inappropriate approach because it gives a negative impression of how the school/college views its responsibility for the welfare of animals within its care, which may have a detrimental effect on the students’ attitudes toward their duties in later life.
Schools have a duty of care to ensure proper provision is made for the welfare needs of any animals for which they are responsible. This applies not only during school term, but also during the holidays. However, I will say that, when giving an education talk or workshop, I often bring along my experienced and trained dog Belle, but only when she is completely happy to accompany me and when the situation/environment permits it. I do this because, as an animal welfare officer, I’m trained in observing a dog’s behaviour and recognising its specific needs and requirements. I also always adhere to an animal’s five freedoms at all times. If I feel one, any or all of these five freedoms are in danger of being
Classrooms can be noisy and frightening places for any animal
compromised/breached, I do not allow Belle, or any animal, accompany me on an education talk. Considering a classroom pet? Ask yourself these questions: • Why do I want a classroom pet? • Can I meet my educational objectives without using a live animal in my classroom? • Am I willing and able to take this pet home? (It’s important to under-
stand that your responsibility does not end when the school day ends. You must continue to take care of the animal outside of school hours, including weekends and holidays). • Are my students mature enough to safely and humanely handle this animal? • Does anyone have allergies that may become aggravated by the presence of this pet? • What will I do if
health concerns arise in the future? • Am I willing to provide routine/emergency veterinary care? • Am I prepared to deal with students’ questions should this animal die? • Does my classroom provide adequate space for housing this pet? • If there’s an accident involving this pet will my school accept liability? • In the event of a school evacuation/emer-
29 September 2011 GAZETTE 15
REVIEW Bord Gais Energy Book Club and Other People’s Money
Bad bank yarn a familiar tale in these times BANKERS behaving badly is a sore subject in the current economic climate, but it’s one that is only beginning to attract the literary attentions of novelists. One of the best such novels has just been published by the prize-winning, London-based South African writer, Justin Cartwright. Other People’s Money tells the story of an upper-crust, family-owned private bank, Tubal & Co, which gets into trouble when it
gency, am I prepared to rescue this pet? So, if your school thinks a classroom pet is still a great idea, then staff need to know their personal responsibility exists, irrespective of whether the animal was purchased by the school or is owned by one of the pupils, teachers or parents. If an animal’s needs are not being met whilst at school and beyond, criminal prosecutions could, in theory, be brought against all persons over the age of 16 who had responsibility for that animal(s), including school staff. My advice would be to contact the Dublin SPCA and check out our free humane education programmes and find out how you can help your students support us in our battle to save animals’ lives. The operation of the country’s oldest and largest animal rescue shelter requires lots of help and, if you feel you can offer it, please email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie For more info log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie
deviates from its ageold mission of looking after the toff’s money and diversifies into the murkier world of investment banking. Family patriarch, Sir Harry, has suffered a stroke and is recovering in his villa in Antibes. This leaves his son and new chairman, Julian Trevelyan-Tubal, free to take the sort of liberties Sir Harry would never have countenanced. Julian has lost the bank a packet on a dodgy hedge fund and now, in
an effort to sell the bank behind Sir Harry’s back, he needs to pad the balance sheet, moving money around to make it look more saleable to the Americans poised to purchase the house of Tubal. Sound familiar? Things begin to go awry when a regular endowment to Artair MacLeod, the first husband of Sir Harry’s wife, Fleur, becomes one of the first casualties in the makeover of the bank’s finances. A local paper takes up the story
and attracts the attention of a whistle-blower eager to dish the dirt on Julian and his nefarious scheming. With Sir Harry near death, the urgency to sell the bank and resolve the succession brings out the worst in a memorable cast of characters, which includes the trophy wife, the black sheep, the scorned but faithful secretary and the memorable Artair who, however buffoonish, represents the enduring
ing Flann O’Brien and Daniel Day-Lewis. This is a cracking satire on a topical subject and it’s beautifully observed. Enjoy!
values of art while the barbarians are at the gate. There’s also an intriguing Irish theme involv-
For lots more book reviews and to keep upto-date with the latest literary news, become a member of the Bord Gais Energ y online book club, bordgaisenergybookclub.ie where you’ll find great recommendations for hours of entertainment in a good book!
16 GAZETTE 29 September 2011
GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY
Essential make-up I
Lancôme’s Maison Lancôme blusher (top left) and Yves Saint Laurent’s Blush Radiance
T’S a magic ingredient that can lift a complexion, leaving you with healthy, flushed cheeks and, this autumn, there is an array of beautiful blushers out their to suit every skin type. One of the prettiest is by Lancôme’s Global Make-up Director, Aaron de Mey, who says that, when he set about creating the classic skincare company’s new autumn essential make-up collection, he wanted it to represent the staples of a chic, sophisticated women’s make-up arsenal – red lips; brown-lined sculptures, defined eyes, groomed brows and fluffy lashes, neutral-coloured
make-up with metallic hints layered over matt sculpting, defining powders. A return to simplicity and sophistication ... “It allows me to show a glamorous, graphic, sophisticated make-up style: Brown-lined eyes with shades of taupe, red-painted lips and red or sparkly, black nails... very femme fatale,” says de May. The collection’s blusher Maison Lancôme is so pretty, you will almost be afraid to use it. Designed like a vintage postcard, the very essence of Paris has been captured in this season’s blush palette. The silhouette of the Eif-
fel Tower, the typically Parisian Art Nouveau streetlamp lighting, the cobbled pavement outside the historical House of Lancôme at 29, rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré, make this palette a true work of art. Aaron’s top tip: “Use as an overall cheek blush with a large, soft, fluffy brush, keeping it high and central on the cheekbones. It adds soft, sheer colour and definition to the face by illuminating the cheekbones.” Maison Lancôme Blush €45.00 Meanwhile, from Yves Saint Laurent, their Blush Radiance will leave you with a half-matte, half-
satin blush that captures the light and transforms it into colour. There are six delicious shades to choose from including Impetuous Beige, Celestial Mauve, Brazen Plum, Incandescent Orange, Mysterious Red and Spellbinding Violet. All about Blunt
She almost stole the show in The Devil Wears Prada and now British actress, Emily Blunt, has been announced as the new face and ambassadress of Yves Saint Laurent’s Opium fragrance. Blunt has become one of the most popular and respected young actresses working today. From the unforgettable, careerminded secretary in the award-winning comedy, The Devil Wears Prada, to her dramatic portrayal of the young queen in the biopic, The Young Victoria, it’s easy to see why her performances have earned her a ream of fans throughout the globe. Both perform-
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29 September 2011 GAZETTE 17
Edited by Dawn Love
for autumn season
British actress, Emily Blunt, has been announced as the new face and ambassadress of Yves Saint Laurent’s Opium fragrance
ances earned her Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations. TV gave her one of her finest roles, playing Natasha in Gideon’s Daughter, for which she won a Golden Globe award for
best supporting actress. Blunt has starred alongside such prestigious actors as Meryl Streep, Benicio del Toro, Matt Damon, Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts and Anthony Hop-
kins. And, in the next 12 months, she will be seen alongside Ewan McGregor in Salmon Fishing In The Yemen, opposite Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bruce Willis, in Looper, and
with Jason Segel in Five Year Engagement. Speaking about her new role with Yves Saint Laurent she said: “I am very honoured to have been chosen to be the face of Opium by Yves Saint Laurent. “I have huge admiration for the House of Yves Saint Laurent and feel that this House has always truly understood the expression of elegance – its mystique and its indescribable power. “It is a really exciting experience to embody this legendary fragrance, which has stood the test of time without its allure ever being diminished. Being a part of this new campaign and being able to tell the story of this very evocative fragrance is a real thrill.”
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18 GAZETTE 29 September 2011
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OPINION Candidate’s Presidential vision
Mary to ‘campaign with passion’ THIS is my first week as a formal candidate for the Presidency, thanks to the support of a range of councils across the country. The fact that this endorsement came from a huge crosssection of society, including councillors of almost all parties and none, was deeply gratifying. Anyone aspiring to the Office of President must be a unifying force. Deciding to run for President is a major decision for any citizen to take. Deciding to seek that job in succession to one of the most admired and respected holders of the office, President Mary McAleese, was an even tougher one. As someone who has served since 2004 on President McAleese’s Council of State, I have seen up close the passion, energy and conviction she has brought to the office. She has set the bar high for her successor. She has shown how the Presidency can reflect and embody all that is good and noble about our people. Over the past months I have been developing my vision of how my Presidency could work to rebuilding pride at home and restoring respect for Ireland internationally. It reinforces the reality that I come to this campaign as a truly independent candidate: an independent candidate with no party political affiliations or political baggage. I have no political background or celebrity status. Instead, I come to this campaign with a
Mary Davis
strong record of getting things done and working with ministers and public representatives from all parties and none – not only here at home, but also across the EU. My career as an advocate for those who have been excluded and marginalised has been about quietly and effectively building coalitions and alliances to achieve our goals.
Now, that I have secured that place on the Presidential ballot paper, I will spend the next six weeks campaigning with passion and vigour to bring my message to every village, townland and community across this land, from Aughrim Street to Ahascragh and from Malin Head to Mahon. We have had something of a phony campaign over recent months, focusing more on celebrity and the fortunes of political parties than on the role of the Office of the President. The Presidency is much more important than that. Now that the closing date for nominations has passed and the choices we have to make emerge, I believe the time has arrived for the real debate to begin. That debate should be about the type of Presidency our people need today. It should be about the values we wish to see reflected in Áras an Uachtaráin, and about the way in which the Presidency can work to repair Ireland’s reputation on the international stage. The message I take into this debate is clear and straightforward – as President I will take a role in restoring pride in our country at home whilst rebuilding respect for Ireland on the world stage.
Mary Davis Presidential Candidate
29 September 2011 GAZETTE 19
GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs
NEW ELECTRIC VEHICLE AMBASSADOR:
The new Hyundai i40 has a good size and solid feel to it, with the benefit of a full-size spare wheel and a high specification on the entry model at a competitive price
Hyundai’s new gem in i40 The i40 combines stunning good looks with impressive economy, as MICHAEL MORONEY found out when he took it for a recent test drive HERE is new competition for the D segment of the car market, with the arrival in recent weeks of the high-specification and keenly priced Hyundai i40. Given the specification and the performance of the car, it’s sure to be a real challenger for the current segment market leader, the Toyota Avensis. The specification of the new i40 is impressive. There are some useful features on board, all at a much more affordable price that should put the entry 115bhp model on the road for a competitive €24,950, before delivery
T
SPECS: HYUNDAI I40 1.7D Top speed: 180 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 12.9 sec Economy: 23.2 km/litre (4.3l/100km) CO2 emissions: 113g/km Road Tax Band: A (€104) Warranty: 5 years Entry Price: €24,995
charges. I drove an early edition of the new Hyundai i40 at a dealer launch last May. Recently, I’ve had time to give the new i40 a longer test drive and get a feel for the car’s features, economy and performance.
There are two engine options for the new i40, both of which are based on the 1.7-litre turbodiesel engine. There’s a choice of 115bhp or 136bhp and they each give reasonable driving power. I had the more powerful 136bhp version on the road in the higher priced Executive specification. That meant that I had the full specification package, with little left from the option sheet. The higher-power car delivers more in terms of acceleration pace, but there is as always a compromise in fuel economy and CO2 rating. The
entry model has a more sluggish pace with a 0 to 100km/hr rating of 12.9 seconds. The more powerful 136bhp version shaves about two seconds from this while only marginally affecting the fuel economy figures. Hyundai claims that this car’s value is hugely about running costs. T he rated economy figure is 18.1km/litre (5.5l/100km) for this higher-power car. That should mean getting over 1,250km from a full 70litre tank of diesel. I didn’t achieve that level of economy, but was close to 1,100 km. That’s
still a good performance for a lively and comfortable big car that weighs in almost as heavy as a Ford Mondeo estate. Irrespective of engine choice, the cars have a low CO2 rating, 115gr (€104 annual tax) for the lower-power version and 135gr (€302 annual tax) for the more powerful car. Add that to the economy performance and running costs will be low. The interior of the new i40 is modern, while remaining functional and easy to use. Setting radio stations and the car’s Bluetooth mobile phone system is easy – I like that
ease of use feature. The car looks and drives very well. It’s easy to drive and get comfortable, with good seating and easy adjustment. The entry price for the Hyundai i40 at €24,995 is very keen. That gives you good value, with modern styling and a five-year unlimited mileage warranty that alone is worth a lot. Moving up to the Executive option adds just €1,500 to the price. You get more features and more power, while the economy difference is minimal, and that’s why I believe this will be the most popular model.
Over 1,000 journalists gather to assess new Opel Ampera AT THE Opel Ampera’s international media presentation in The Hague, Netherlands, last month, more than 1,000 journalists had an opportunity to assess the vehicle prior to its launch at the end of the year. One of the tests in the event’s Eco Drive Contest involved optimising the Ampera’s driving range in pure battery-powered mode by using an energy-efficient driving style. According to the car’s technical specifications, it is possible to cover a distance of up to 80 kilometres in pure
electric drive mode on a single charge of the 16 kWh lithium ion battery. The results achieved in normal road traffic conditions were extremely convincing. Journalists who tackled the Eco Drive challenge successfully completed the 73 km test route on battery power and nearly a quarter had sufficient power left to cover at least a further 10 kilometres, according to the vehicle’s range indicator. The most efficient driver could have driven a total distance of 95.3 kilome-
tres on battery power alone – roughly 15 kilometres more than the Ampera’s stated maximum battery-powered range. None of the participants risked running out of battery power en route because the Ampera’s range-extender, a 1.4-litre gasoline engine, is used to generate power for the 111 kW/150 hp main electric motor if the battery becomes depleted. In this way, the fourpassenger vehicle is the first electric car from a European manufacturer that is entirely suitable for everyday use due to
a total driving range of more than 500 kilometres.
The Opel Ampera. © GM Corp
FOLLOWING a nationwide recruitment campaign in July to find a number of electric vehicle ambassadors, Renault has announced seven new recruits, including Ciaran O’Mahony, who will be based at Bill Cullen Motor Group Airside. Ciaran will be dedicated to the Renault range of electric vehicles and will help to build awareness and assist customers in making informed choices. While the seven new EV Ambassadors will be experts in their field, the entire Renault network will be fully trained to sell electric vehicles. Based in key dealerships around the country, these ambassadors will play a crucial part in the launch of Renault electric range of vehicles, which will see the Kangoo ZE arriving in November, followed by Fluence ZE in early 2012. Also in 2012, Renault will launch the Twizy, an urban two-seater quadricycle and the ZOE, a stylish compact hatch. “Interest in the roles was very high and a huge number of applications were received,” said Sandra Rea, Electric Vehicle Project Manager at Renault Ireland. “These new recruits will be responsible for a number of tasks in the electric vehicle area.”
20 GAZETTE 29 September 2011
GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY CASTLEKNOCK: A FOUR-BEDROOM DETACHED BUNGALOW FOR €395,000 IN D15
A Rose Cottage by any other name SHERRY Fitzgerald, Castleknock, are bringing Rose Cottage, Porterstown, Dublin 15, a four-bedroom detatched bungalow, to the market for the asking price of €395,000. Located off the P o r t e r s t ow n R o a d , this bungalow, which extends to 1,700 sq ft, lies on .33 acre and offers enormous potential to extend further, subject to planning permission. A l t h o u g h r e q u i ring modernisation, the accommodation is both bright and spacious. The accommodation comprises an entrance hall with a wooden floor, alarm panel and
large storage cupboard, a living room, which overlooks the front of the property, and which has a cast-iron fireplace, a kitchen with fitted wooden units, a dining room with a patio door to the garden and an utility room with a tiled floor, and is plumbed for washing machine and dryer. The bedrooms in the property are all double rooms, and the master bedroom has a walkin closet, with feature cast-iron fireplace and wooden floors, as well as an en suite that contains a shower unit, whb and wc. The bathroom suite comprises a free-stand-
Rose Cottage, Porterstown is on the market for the asking price of €395,000
ing bath, whb and wc.
Exterior appeal Outside, The gardens are well maintained and benefit from a westerly orientation, and it also
offers a high degree of privacy. There is a dual access driveway to the front, which provides ample off-street parking. The property has an
alarm and oil-fired central heating. Rose Cottage’s location is convenient to local schools, shops and restaurants in Clonsilla and Castleknock villag-
es. It is within a short distance of Castleknock Golf Club and the Phoenix Park. Viewing is recommended and can be arranged by contacting
Carol Anne Galvin of Sherry FitzGerald, in Ashleigh Retail Centre, Main Street, Castleknock, on 01 820 1800, or via e-mail on castleknock@sherryfitz.ie
RATHCOOLE: SEMI-DETACHED LIVING IN VILLAGE
Peyton is still the place to be in Rathcoole THE Peyton development in Rathcoole village is presenting to the market a new set of large three- and four-bedroom semidetached houses, available from only €255,000. There is a range of house layouts and sizes from 128 to 190 sq m, suitable for first-time buyers, trading up or down, and large family homes. Constructed by Blackchurch Homes, these exclusive houses have a top-quality finish at a very affordable price in a convenient village location. All of the houses have large bedrooms, spacious living rooms, generous bathrooms and en-suites, decent sized gardens, and private driveways for two cars.
The fine interior design at Peyton is reflected across the range of house types
Local amenities on their doorstep include Rathcoole Park, and there are primary and secondary schools within walking distance. Some of the excellent Peyton house features include B1 energy ratings, no manage-
ment fees, a choice of Nolan fitted kitchens with granite worktops, and central vacuum systems. There are 9ft ceilings in living areas and kitchen appliances are included if the sale closes on time. Viewing is recom-
mended and the show houses are open on Saturdays and Sundays from 2.30 to 5pm. For further details, contact Glenn Burrell in Finnegan Menton, on (01) 614 7900 or Redmond Auctioneers at (01) 4589833.
29 September 2011 GAZETTE 21
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS
Supported by AIB
HEALTH: CELTIC HEALING OPEN DUBLIN TREATMENT CENTRE
ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS
ENERGY BILLS Q – I am thinking of revamping my home to avail of some of the energy grants available. My energy bills are huge and upgrading now can save me money, both in the short-term through these grants and the long-term from the savings on monthly energy costs. Can you let me know what grants precisely are available and how do I go about applying for them ? Paul - Wicklow A - “Better Energy Options” is the new recently launched revamped energy grant scheme and replaced three different grant schemes – Home Energy Savings Scheme, Warmer Home schemes and the Greener Homes scheme. Here are some of the grants available. • Solar panel water heating system - € 800 • Heating control upgrades - €400 • Upgrading to a high-efficiency boiler – € 560 • Cavity wall insulation - € 320 • Building Energy Rating (BER) grant - €80 ( you must get a BER rating as part of the application ) You apply to the Department of Energy via the Sustainable Peter Woods, former Minister for Health, Dr Michael Woods, and Paddy Dalton at the launch
Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) who administer the grant
Unlock positive energy with bio-energy healing ON Thursday, September 22, bio-energy experts, Celtic Healing, opened their Dublin treatment centre at the Sands Hotel in Portmarnock. The centre will now be open every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8am until late. Bio-energy healers have been unlocking positive energy and clearing energy systems for scores of celebrities and sports people all over the world. Firm devotees include Kylie Minogue, Liz Hurley, Donna Karan, the Duchess of York and her daughters and, of course, Michael Flatley is Ireland’s best known bio-energy success story. After being plagued by a mystery virus for two years, Irish dancing supremo, Michael Flatley, was completely cured. Not because of a good dose of vitamin C, yoga or osteopathy, but, intriguingly, thanks to a bio-energy healer. Bio-energy healing has also been winning a big following among sports people plagued by injuries. “Having seen the wide variety of ailments that have been healed with Bio-energy
therapy, I am delighted to be opening this healing centre in Dublin. “Healing without drugs, surgery or painful manipulation is something that most people want,” said Peter Woods of Celtic Healing. Bio-energy healing is an effective, holistic technique for the treatment of physical illness, emotional blocks, mental obstacles and spiritual issues. It is based on the understanding that each of us is a complex, interactive energy system. Historical records document energy healing over 3,500 years ago and Bio-energy is what the life force in humans is referred to as. When we get a blockage in our energy system, the energy stagnates and this leads to illness and/or discomfort. Guests at the launch included former Minister for Health Dr Michael Woods, acclaimed author Bernadette Bohan, Today FM DJ Tony Fenton, personal trainer to the stars Paul Byrne and wife Siobhan, beauty guru Triona McCarthy and Miss North County Dublin, Rebecca Maher. A standard course of treat-
ments with Celtic Healing is five sessions and this is effective for 95% of clients. Treatment takes place in a relaxed environment, on a one-to-one basis, with each session lasting approximately 30 minutes. A client record is taken, including medical history. Treatment is non-invasive, with minimal physical contact. Clients remain fully clothed, except for their shoes. The therapist may give advice on energy balancing techniques, diet and exercise. Bio-energy can help with all ailments - arthritis, asthma, ADHD, migraine, insomnia, back pain, stress, ME, eczema, psoriasis, acne, IBS and bowel problems, acid reflux and digestive problems. Bio-energy has also been very effective as a complementary therapy for people suffering from cancer and undergoing chemotherapy. An ailment is a symptom. The energy blockage is the root of the problem. The therapist will clear the blockage and the body will start to heal itself. Bio-energy is a complementary therapy and works
in conjunction with conventional medicine but it can speed up healing time on all injuries, sports, accidents, minor and major. It is especially effective after operations and procedures in hospital and can help lessen pain and discomfort pre- and post-medical intervention. “The body has very powerful healing abilities. The doctor puts a cast on a broken limb but the body heals the bone. A cut scabs up and heals of its own accord. “These are just a couple of obvious examples of the body’s own ability to heal itself but by clearing blockages from the energy system, it allows the body to begin the healing process,” said Paddy Dalton of Celtic Healing about his bioenergy technique. Celtic Healing Clinics are now taking place at the Sands Hotel in Portmarnock, Co Dublin on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays from 8am until late. Call 01 8390344 for appointments or see www.celtichealing.ie.
schemes. You must also use a registered SEAI contractor to do the work and complete a declaration of works, while all payments are paid after completion of the works not before. Contact details are hes@seai.ie or www.seai.ie/ betterenergyhomes or Lo-call 1850 927 000
SUB PRIME LOANS Q – I have a € 240,000 loan with a sub-prime lender taken out six years ago. At that time, I had missed a couple of repayments on my car loan and my adviser said the mainstream lenders would not consider me for a loan. I did not really understand the consequences – all I wanted was a home for my family. I have maintained the repayments every month but am now beginning to feel the pinch – my interest rate is 7.5% and I am paying €1,678 per month at the moment. I could save over € 600 a month by moving to a high street lender. What are my chances ? David - Clontarf A - The Irish Credit Bureau (ICB) in Clonskeagh Dublin 14 is a lender’s first port of call to check your credit history. Missed payments stay on record for 5 years but if you have kept the nose clean these past five years, then you may have a case to swap back to a normal lender. The whole idea of sub-prime was a kind of purgatory – you did your penance but after a while, you were allowed to come back into the fold. Here is your checklist to see if you qualify with a high street lender : 1. Check with the ICB to see if your credit record is now clear 2. Ensure the loan-to-value is less than 80% - so the valuation of your home should be in excess of € 300,000 based on your € 240,000 mortgage 3. Your joint income should be between € 53,000 to € 60,000 or the same amount if the only earner in the home. 4. You will need P 60, pay slips and status enquiry form along with 12 months current account bank statements AND your sub-prime loan statements plus any other current loan statement Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@ moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor
22 GAZETTE 29 September 2011
GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel A perfect setting for family fun at Heritage Virginia Pumpkin Festival to attract festival fans from all over Ireland over the Bank Holiday
TAKING place over the October Bank Holiday Weekend, October 28 to 31, the fifth-annual Virginia Pumpkin Festival is Ireland’s most unique and quirkiest event, attracting festival fans and pumpkin growers from Ireland and overseas to celebrate pumpkin season. Visitors will be kept entertained by the Pumpkin Weigh-in Competition, Ireland’s largest fancy dress party, a sensational samba band, artisan arts and crafts, and music from headline act, The Waterboys, on Saturday night. Hotels.com has some great deals on offer in and around Virginia, so get pumped and make sure not to miss out the festivities. WHERE TO STAY Lakeside Manor Hotel (three-star) – Virginia
Prices start from €100 per room per night from October 28 – 31 on hotels.com Situated on the shores of Lough Ramor, the Lakeside Manor Hotel is the perfect haven for a relaxing family break. If you have time to spare after the festival, you can go horseback riding, catch a play at the local theatre or relax in the walled garden hotel bar.
DAWN LOVE
THERE were two main highlights for me when it came to the five star Heritage Golf and Spa Resort in Laois. Set amidst rolling countryside and a spectacular golf course, it’s easy to see why it has become a huge hit with families. Quite simply, there is plenty to do and something for every member of the family to enjoy. Firstly, for the golfing enthusiasts, there is a spectacular Steve Ballestero’s golf course. And, if teeing off isn’t your cup of tea, then the 5km private walking track, which encircles the championship course, is ideal for everything from a fast-paced run, to a gentle stroll after dinner. The accommodation
(we stayed in a family suite) was also spacious and comfortable, while the health club comes with a 15m leisure pool (a little on the cool side for my taste) and fullyequipped fitness studio. But for me, the ultimate treat was the Heritage’s stunning and award-winning spa. Using products from the luxurious and organic Pevonia Botanica range, loved by Hollywood big names such as Sharon Stone and Susan Sarandon, there is a multitude of treatments to choose from. My therapist was Grace, and I’d highly recommend asking for her if you do happen to visit the spa. After chatting to me and taking a good look at my skin (which is combination, to be exact), Grace decided on
Headfort Arms (three-star) - Kells
Prices start from €120 per room per night, from October 28 – 31 on hotels.com Located just a short drive from Virginia, this hotel is complete with a spa and golf course. A family run property, the Headfort Arms is an intimate property perfect for a relaxing weekend away. Cabra Castle Hotel (four-star) - Kingscourt
Prices start from €110 per room per night, from October 28 – 31 on hotels.com This beautiful four-star manor property is complete with a golf course, tennis courts, spa, restaurant and lounge. A babysitting service is available on request and guests can avail of complimentary breakfast every morning. All prices are subject to availability at the time of booking.
One of the large, sumptuous suites
a Pevonia Prescription Facial (€85) which lasts for one hour. This can be tailor-made to suit your skin type and, to be frank, it was divine. Along with using products that were tailored to suit my complexion, she also concentrated on stimulating my lymph system. After this, I enjoyed a total Back Ritual (€85), which also lasts for one hour. Essentially this is a specialised back ‘facial’, which cleanses, polishes and thoroughly massages the back muscles. Floated
I literally floated back up to our room afterwards and, I must admit, I have become a firm fan of the Pevonia range, in particular its De-Aging Saltimousse PapayaPineapple scrub and the
De-Aging Body BalmPapaya Pineapple, since our break at the Heritage. But, as I said, there were two main highlights for me when it came to our stay and, after a thoroughly relaxing spell in the spa, dinner at Sol Oriens Italian Restaurant & Steakhouse was next up. I’d heard about Sol Oriens before went down to the Heritage for our stay. Friends had said it was perfect for dining out with a toddler in tow and, indeed, it is the ideal venue for more relaxed dining, with its open kitchen and classical Italian theme. My husband and I are big fans of Bruchetta Al Pomodoro (€6.25) so we both opted for this as a starter. It came on crispy, sourdough bread and was topped with delicious, fresh tomatoes, fresh basil, red onion and extra virgin oil. Next up, Dylan chose the Grilled Sea Bass Fillet served with Beurre Blanc (€22). This comprised a fillet of sea bass, topped with fresh tomatoes, red onion, coriander and extra-virgin olive oil served on a bed of mashed potato, and he loved it. I chose the Filleto Manzo (€26) – a 10oz Irish fillet steak grilled and served with sautéed mushrooms and onions, all of which also came
With a setting in the rolling
with creamy mashed potato. For dessert, we both had Panna Cotta, the classic Italian desert that completed a perfect evening. Breakfast was also delicious. We had just walked the 5km track around the golf course and were more than ready for a hearty feed. I opted for a croissant and porridge, while Dylan had a full Irish. Our toddler, Harry, had a mixture of both and was clearly in his element as the restaurant staff fussed over him. All in all, it was a relaxing family stay with the advantage of just being within an hour of Dublin city centre. For further details on special offers and prices at The Heritage Golf and Spa Resort, Killenard, County Laois, you can call 057 864 5500 or visit www.theheritage.com
29 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 23
Edited by Mimi Murray
TravelBriefs
Relax and unwind the night before your flight from Dublin Airport at the Hilton at Clare Hall MIMI MURRAY
countryside and views of the spectacular golf course, the five-star Heritage Golf and Spa Resort in Laois is a huge hit with families
The pool area
ON a recent trip abroad we decided to be ultraindulgent, or very sensible, whichever way you choose to look at it, and spend the night before our flight in an airport hotel. The Hilton is situated just minutes away from Dublin Airport in Clare Hall. The hotel has underground parking, so we decided to leave our car there for the duration of our trip at a reasonable rate. The hotel is really comfortable and boasts a bar and restaurant, which seems to be filled with locals, as well as transient guests. Our bedroom was really comfortable and quite spacious with a very comfy bed. We dined in the hotel and were very pleasantly surprised to see that the menu was quite adventurous and to our liking. After a smoked salmon starter and lots of delicious homemade breads, we chose from the grill – a fillet steak with bearnaise for me and a striploin for my husband. Both were very well cooked and came with loads of delicious extras. The wine list was very good with plenty of choice and we retired to the bar for an after dinner drink. Staff were ultra-attentive and really pleasant. The manageress said they are very much like a big family, and that includes a lot of the regular business guests who spend weeks at a time at the hotel. After a very restful night, we had a scrummy breakfast with loads of delicious breads, pastries, fruit and coffee on offer, as well as a decent selection of cooked breakfast. We checked out and waited for our minibus, which had us at the airport terminal within minutes. After a fun-filled four days in Spain, we returned home and our minibus was waiting for us at the designated spot. It was just a case of hopping in our car and making the journey home, relaxed and far less exasperated than normal.
The spa experience
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GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1
GoingOUT GoingOUT MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Ger Carey Live THE workings of the teenage brain are a mystery – unless you’re Ger Carey, whose comic show proves that he knows what it’s like to be a teenager. Aimed at young people between the ages of 15 and 18, his one-man show is set to help teenagers laugh at themselves and the complexities of their lives. Ger also says that grown-ups are welcome. Catch Ger’s show at 11.20am on Thursday, September 29, with admission costing €10 (teachers free).
DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Brian Kennedy FOR Brian’s many fans of his singular voice and singing style, this is a show not to be missed, as he can be relied on to croon through some of his many hits. Well-known as a leading singer, he is, perhaps, lesser-known as an author, proving that he’s a man of many talents – however, his singing skills will be to the fore at 8pm on Thursday, September 29 in Driaocht’s Main Auditorium, with tickets priced at €22/€18 conc.
PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Faith Healer BRIAN Friel’s striking play, Faith Healer, takes to the Pavilion stage, ready to bring the audience on a journey across Scotland and Wales with a faith healer and his companions, as he meets the sick by forests and mountains. But are Frank’s miraculous cures real, and what is the price the afflicted must pay? See this dramatic production of Faith Healer on Friday, September 30 or Saturday, October 1, at 8pm, with tickets priced at €21/€19.
Sally (Bailee Madison) has just what every child needs – a creepy old house, malignant imps living in its secret basement, and a camera to help prove they’re real (with a flash that might keep the light-senstive creatures at bay) in this interesting new horror
An impishly creepy tale There’s not much light relief in this tale of basement-dwelling creatures trying to get a child to let them out to play with her Q KATE CROWLEY
WHERE is it? It’s around here somewhere, I just know it ... Readers! (Yes, both of you.) Have either of you seen my Gone Fishin’ sign? Frankly, despite the soft, gentle arctic winds of autumn gusting across Dublin at the moment, I’ve never felt more like hangin’ my Gone Fishin’ sign on the back of my Gazette Towers’ throne, grabbing a jar of wigglin’ earthworms and sittin’ down at the banks of the Liffey, thanks to the decidedly poor offerings marchin’ up to our screens, this week. Faced with the likes of Cane Toads: The Conquest, and Shark Night 3D – not to mention the return of Katie Holmes – this has never seemed like a better week for me to master my Sudoku skills. Still, for the purpose of this week’s review, there’s no place like Holmes, so
FILM OF THE WEEK: Don’t be Afraid of the Dark +++ (16) 97 mins Director: Troy Nixey Starring: Guy Pearce, Katie Holmes, Bailee Madison, a grizzled groundskeeper, a creepy house, and murderous goblin things
OUR VERDICT: WHO would have thought that a long-abandoned house could be full of creepy secrets? With famed intellectual-horror director, Guillermo del Toto, having a helping hand in the film, this feels more like a scaled-down Pan’s Basement rather than Pan’s Labyrinth, but that’s no bad thing. We’ve all seen this kind of film before, and yet, it’s an enjoyable enough creepy tale to follow.
let’s take a look at her latest film, Don’t be Afraid of the Dark. Here, presented under the guiding hands of producer, Guillermo del Toro – the filmmakers have turned in a creepy horror. (Personally, I tend to think that most films with Ms Holmes turn out to be a horror, but I digress.) Following a gruesome, scene-setting intro, we flash forward to the present day, where a down-on-his luck architect, Alex (Pearce) moves into a creaking, crumbling, gothic pile with his girlfriend Kim (Holmes)
and his daughter, Sally (a terrific performance by Madison). In time-honoured fashion, the long abandoned house has a gruesome, if forgotten past – remember the intro, folks? – but all Alex can see is the chance to do a nice refurb job on the house, and get back on his feet, while at the same time the gals can bond. Because, of course, where better to hole up with a withdrawn child and a new girlfriend for some quality family time together than in a creepy old house?
It’s not long before curious Sally discovers that the house is full with the kind of mysteries that you tend not to see listed on property websites – including a secret, sealedup basement, and a mysterious fireplace that Sally seems to think has some... things... living in it being chief among such points. Of course, if a bright kid tells you that there are tiny, creepy monsters living in the fireplace she found in a secret basement, all set in the kind of house that Norman Bates would pass by to stay in a motel instead, you should probably believe them. Also, of course, Alex doesn’t believe Sally, who can not only hear the mysterious, tiny creatures in the fireplace endlessly whispering and calling to her to let them out and “play”, but can glimpse them, and see their malicious handiwork, which they revel in – as long as there’s plenty of darkness
around to hide in. It’s not long before the creatures have escaped and are loose around in the house, where – crucially – it’s perfectly clear that, yes, the creatures are very real, and dangerous, and that a crunchy, delicioussss child would be jusssst lovely, thank you. Oh, if only the family had listened to the grizzled groundskeeper, who warned them about the house! With Kim gradually coming around to believing Sally, yet Alex dismissing their fears, the scene is set for a showdown: house versus humans. The only problem is, they should all be very afraid of the dark ... Sure, we’ve all seen house-of-horror shows before – I used to have to review Changing Rooms, after all – but this is a creepily enjoyable addition to the genre. Maybe next week I’ll be Gone Fishin’ instead.
29 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 25
GazetteGAMING GAMING Gears guns for the top Bytesandpieces SHANE DILLON
I HOPE that the zombies found at the top of the charts recently enjoyed their brief time in the sun, because one thing’s for sure – once Gears of War 3 was released on XBox 360, Dead Island (see panel, right) had about as much chance of staying in place as a Locust footsoldier facing Marcus Fenix. For those who don’t know what either a Locust footsoldier (or a Marcus Fenix) is, the Gears of War (GoW) series follows a dwindling band of desperate human survivors on Sera, a world that’s quite similar to our own. It’s similar, except for the fact that humanity’s facing extinction, with a mass horde of Locusts (a subterranean race of
Another weebyte Market needs more Vita-lity WITH Sony’s handheld gaming division now firmly locked in a pincer movement with Nintendo on one side, and Apple on the other, the stakes have never been higher for its revamped PSP – the Vita – to kickstart its handheld fortunes. Despite the PSP having decent power, my own experience has been that they’re rarer than hen’s teeth around Dublin, and, indeed, with it proving tough to find an okay range of PSP games in most Dublin stores, it remains to be seen how well Sony can hit back with the Vita. With even Nintendo’s recently launched 3DS slumping in the markets, Sony isn’t the only player praying for some Vita-lity to return to the struggling handheld console sector.
murderous creatures) having overrun most of the planet, leaving behind ruined cities, utter devastation – and millions of happy gamers, all following a supersoldier, Marcus, in his footsteps, band of brothers in tow. An XBox-exclusive title, Gears has established itself as a key franchise for Microsoft’s gaming fans, and this latest addition, while not exactly a revolution, certainly builds upon many of the already highly-polished strengths that fans relish in the series. A day before it hit the shelves on its world-wide launch date, I called in to the GoW3 launch party in the centre of Dublin, where hordes of Gears fans were entranced by the hordes of Locusts filling the screens, with
Dead Island is found to be a hit
Tipperary Hurler, Padraic Maher, and Leinster and Irish Rugby Player, Shane Horgan, fight their way past merchandising to be among the first to play Gears of War 3
single-player and multiplayer missions playing out across the venue. GoW3 certainly looked terrific (which gameplay videos on social platforms are already ably proving), while, away from the busy singleplayer storyline screens, the multiplayer rounds
were providing plenty of concentration amongst Gears fans – and occasional laughter, too. This, claimed as the third and final part in the Gears trilogy, has been hailed as an emotional way to end the series, packed with punchy setpieces, spectacular vis-
tas, intense action and, as always, Gears’ striking world of “destroyed beauty”, as ravaged cities and foul landscapes are traversed. So far, so Gears, so great. I’ll be returning to Gears soon, with a more detailed look at its single and multiplayer modes.
SEEING as I briefly mentioned it recently, there’s no harm in adding that Techland’s multi-platform title, Dead Island, promptly shuffled its way to the top of games’ charts in many markets, marking, perhaps, an unexpectedly strong success for the adult title. Its flaws are many, including being a game that very much merits its Cert 18 rating; some quite unsavoury character designs and scripting; ng; a particularly badly developed and executed plot; simply dreadful voice-over work; some teeth-grindingly infuriating control issues and broken game logic, and – Well, despite all of the many things wrong with the title, it also seems to get a lot of things right, with its gory graphics, frequently frenetic action, and occasionally very pretty scene setting (with beautiful beaches and jungles that surpass both of the Far Cry and Crysis series) proving a hit with gamers, hungry for something a little different. Certainly not a title for children, its open-world setting and multi-mission, RPG-like tactics show that there’s still plenty of life in the zombie genre ...
GAZETTE
26 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 September 2011
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CLASSES SEWING CLASSES/ CURTAIN MAKING Beginners and Improvers 6 week Sewing Classes on Dress Making and Curtain and Roman Blind Making Starting Mid-September. Half Day workshops also resuming in October. Book your course on www. sewgreat.ie, or call 01 822 7650. Curtain and Roman Blind making service at competitive prices. We reline and re-pleat all curtains; full selection of poles and rails available.
COMPUTERS SALES, REPAIRS AND NETWORKING Network Installation & Maintenance. Specialise in Computer/Network Security. Virus/Spyware Removal. PC Tuneup. Broadband Installation. Call Kieran 087 6698385. COMPUTER REPAIRS AND SALES Virus removal, broadband + wireless setup PC running slow, annoying pop-ups. Call Damien 0861714713 for a quote NO CALLOUT CHARGE
DIVORCE SERVICES DIVORCE BY CONSENT Separated 4 years ? Agree on all matters ? We will draft and process your divorce documents for Court. From as little as €600 per couple. Separation Agreements fixed fee €500 per couple. Contact: Damien Mara at 086-1211820 Email: damienmara@eircom.net Website: www. divorcebyconsent.com
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PLANNING NOTICE
PLANNING NOTICE
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
Pieta House ( Charitable Organization ) is applying for permission for the retention of a single storey detached prefabricated building in the rear garden in use for office purposes associated with Pieta House for a temporary period of two years and, the permanent retention of the treatment of the western boundary rear garden wall including the timber fencing panels above. The developments described above are located at 39 Lucan Heights,Old Lucan Road, Lucan , Co. Dublin. 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.
Further Information’ I Gary Hansard of 47,Dodsboro Cottages Lucan Co.Dublin intends to furnish further information in connection with the proposed South Facing 3 Bedroom Dormer Bunlalow at rear of 47 Dodsboro Cottages Lucan Co.Dublin with pedestrian & vehicular access through 47 Dodsboro Cottages Lucan Reg.Ref.No. SD11A/0096.The revised plans have (a) Entrance Door Facing Southwards(b) Surface Water Soakaway Details (c)2M. High Screen Walls on North, East & West Side to be capped & rendered on both sides.The Boundary Wall on the South side is to be 2M.high to be constructed of natural stone and with suitable tree screening.This Further Information has been furnished to the Planning Authority and is available for inspection or purchase at the offices of South Dublin Council,County Hall,Town C e n t r e , Ta l l a g h t , D u b l i n 24.between 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday and that a submission or observation may be submitted in relation to the further information in the revised plans on the payment of a fee of €20(not payable if a valid submission has already been lodged)within two weeks of receipt of Further Information by the Authority.
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GazetteSPORT
SEPTEMBER STARS:
This month’s Dublin Sport Awards nominees announced Page 29
LIFFEY DESCENT: ICONIC ANNUAL CANOEING EVENT RESCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER
Descent back on track for 2011’s vintage races sport@gazettegroup. com
UP to 1,000 canoeists from Ireland and abroad will take part in the Great Outdoors Liffey Descent on Saturday, October 8. Originally due to take place in mid-September, the event was postponed due to low water levels. The Great Outdoors Liffey Descent is one of the biggest events of its kind in the world and is
not for the faint-hearted. The 28km course combines long, flat water sections, swift currents, 10 weirs and numerous rapids, a heavily wooded section and a long portage around Leixlip dam. Paddlers will need skill, stamina and courage to complete the race. The ESB will release 30 tonnes of water from the Poulaphouca Reservoir to coincide with the race. This brings the river up to flood level
and transforms small rapids and gentle weirs into foaming white water. Started back in 1960 as an inter-club event, the illustrious Great Outdoors Liffey Descent k ay a k i n g r a c e n ow attracts paddlers from many parts of the world and is a major event on the international calendar. The race will play host to some serious marathon competitors, but the majority of par-
The Liffey Descent will hit the water on October 8 with over 1,000 participants picking up their paddles
ticipants are recreational paddlers whose main aim is to complete the course. Speaking this week, Karl Dunne, of the Canoe Union said: “This event is one-of-a-kind. T he atmosphere on the day as competitors
approach the start line at Straffan is second-tonone. “A mixture of nervous anticipation and friendly banter is abundant. It is a brilliant event to have on the Irish kayaking calendar and we hope that the success of pre-
vious years will continue for the 2011 event.” The event is renowned for its Irish party atmosphere but also guaranteed good conditions. That’s thanks to the ESB which releases 30 tonnes of water from the Poulaphouca Res-
ervoir to coincide with the race. This brings the river up to flood level and transforms small rapids and gentle weirs into furious torrents and foaming white water walls. To register, visit www. liffeydescent.com
28 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 September 2011
GazetteSport Sport
Ailbhe Ryan and Amy Gorman
Lucan Fun Day
Paul Casey with Zara Lawless and Aaron Cronin
Dublin footballer, Denis Bastic, and Sam
Sarsfields celebrate with Sam UCAN Sarsfields’ Family Fun Day last weekend was a truly memorable day at the club for a number of reasons, not least because it saw famous son, Paul Casey, return to the club with the Sam Maguire Trophy. The fun day is part of the Lucan festival, which continues to grow every year. This year there were more stalls, more slides, more bands than ever, and the arrival of Casey with the All-Ireland cup rounded off the day in fine style. Kids were encouraged to wear the blue of Dublin on the day, and many left with their jerseys signed by the players, who came along with the trophy, and there were members and non-members at 12th Lock to celebrate the county’s success. “Lucan Sarsfields was able to showcase all that is best about our club with such organisational flair and energy, engaging with the broader Lucan community in such a positive manner,” the club said. “Days and hours were spend planning the event. Sincere thanks goes to the many volunteers who helped out on the day or who contributed in any way in the days leading up to the event.”
L
Happy fans wait for their football heroes to arrive
Kevin Nolan with Gerry McAndrew
Ailise Dowling and Rob Flynn
29 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 29
in association with
2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - SEPTEMBER NOMINEES
FastSport
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
+ STARof the
Schools learn opponents in Development Cup
MONTH
DEIRDRE RYAN
MOSES IKPEFUA
NICOLA RYAN
DUNDRUM South Dublin athlete Ryan secured her berth at the 2012 London Olympics, jumping the A standard in Daegu when she claimed the sixth place in the high jump world championships this month.
KNOCKMITTEN runner Moses won the Under8 boys’ 60m title at Athlone in the national Community Games’ finals early in September, defeating opponents from around the country in style.
LUCAN resident Ryan became an Australian Rules’ world champion when she helped Ireland to claim the inaugural women’s International Cup in Melbourne with a 39-8 victory over Canada.
+ TEAMof the MONTH
ST BRIGID’S
DUBLIN FOOTBALLERS
ST SYLVESTER’S
A LAST-gasp free finally put St Brigid’s junior B footballers into seventh heaven when they claimed the championship title against St Finian’s of Newcastle following an epic final earlier this month.
THE sons of Dublin football finally achieved their potential on the national stage when they put 16 years of hurt behind them to lift the Sam Maguire trophy at Croke Park in front of a jubilant home support.
ST SYLVESTER’S celebrated their first All-Ireland hurling title a little over 18 months after claiming the Leinster Junior championship title when they won the St Jude’s Junior 7s Shield in midSeptember.
WELCOME to the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, as we mark our local sportsmen and women’s September sporting achievements across the capital and, indeed, across the nation. We’re delighted to once again be able to celebrate the finest achievements in Dub-
lin sport, with some huge efforts at local levels coming to our attention in a variety of well-known, and some, less prominent, sports. Ever y form of sporting achievement, at any level and in any sport, is valuable and gives an indication of the diversity of sporting commit-
ment there is around our fair city at all times of the year.
Let us know! Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars.
Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ gazettesport. You can also check out the latest stories from GazetteSport at our new website, www.gazettegroup.com
FORMER St Columba’s student Ian McKinley drew his alma mater in a couple of tough draws as he and Shane Horgan conducted the Leinster Senior and Junior Development Cup and Shield draws last weekend. The Rathfarnham school will face upand-coming St Fintan’s HS, Sutton in the second round of the McMullen Cup, while their Junior side will face St Patrick’s Classical School, Navan, in round one of the Duff Cup. In the senior development cup, Lucan CC have been pitted against Firhouse CS in the second round, which will be played on October 12. On the same date, Castleknock CS will face Celbridge’s Salesians College while Oatlands play Portmarnock and Malahide CS face Drogheda Grammar. At Junior level, Castleknock CS face Colaiste Choilm, Swords on October 10.
Ford offer top travelling prize for Ireland fans FORD, official vehicle supplier to the FAI, are offering football fans in Dublin the chance to win an exclusive VIP package to the Republic of Ireland’s eagerly anticipated European Championship crunch qualifier against Armenia at the Aviva Stadium on Tuesday, October 11. Ford will look after the transport to and from the game for the winner and his/her friend by supplying a Ford
vehicle and personal chauffeur to pick them up on the day of the big match. The prize also includes a night’s accommodation in a Dublin hotel with pre-match dinner included, a pair of tickets to the game, and a chance to meet the players in the players’ lounge following the final whistle, as well as chauffeur-driven transport back home the following day. To enter, fans just need to email fordfootball@whpr. ie and let Ford know of a great journey they’ve experienced to a previous football match.
30 LUCAN GAZETTE 29 September 2011
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
RUGBY: LOCAL RIVALS PLAY OUT ENTHRALLING MATCH
Harriers take honours at schools competition LUCAN Harriers’ members produced a series of strong performances at the Schools Combined Events last week with Adam Doran producing a number of exceptional displays. He placed third overall in an extremely competitive event. On the girl’s side, Tara Andrews was competing in the junior girls’ competition and, once again, looks like she can look forward to a fantastic season. She placed a very close fifth overall, coming just 25 points behind 4th place. Saoirse Reihill was also back competing in her first event of the new school year and demonstrated that she has lost none of her form from the end of last season as a number outstanding displays in the events saw Saoirse impress against some strong competition.
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, seen here in action against Clondalkin last season, started 2011 with an away win against Fermoy in Cork
Barnhall leave it late FRIENDLY Fermoy Lionesses Barnhall Babes
0 5
sport@gazettegroup.com
NUIM Barnhall ladies’ team, the Babes, travelled to Fermoy recently to face the newly-promoted Lionesses, and came away with a narrow victory in terrible conditions. The torrential rain that fell before the match did little to quell the Babes’ spirits as they took the game to Fermoy from the kick-off. Although the Babes had six debutantes playing their first ever game of rugby, their lack of
experience didn’t show. With Aine Hanley commanding the backs from out-half, the Babes back line look to have rediscovered the type of form that brought them Leinster League glory last year. The Babes’ forwards pack are being coached by last year’s captain, Anne Carroll, and they were relishing making the hard yards and sucking in opposition players, creating both goforward ball and space to attack. If it had not been for some excellent defending from a strong Fermoy pack, the Babes
could have been three or four tries up in the first twenty minutes, but the home team’s resilience and lack of errors kept the scores level. As the wind gusted, each team was penalised for crooked throw-ins at line-out time. With a minute left on the clock, it looked like the match would end honours even. Barnhall had a penalty about 35 metres out. Jago took a quick tap penalty and threw a switch pass to Anne Carrroll, who offloaded the ball to second row Ciara Baxter as she went into contact. The ball was fed to
Regina O’Reilly, who stayed in her feet in the tackle until Orlagh Carroll arrived. Carroll fed the ball to Aine Hanley, who passed back into Giena Hallinan. With three defenders hanging on to her Hallinan was still making yards when the ball made its way back to Sarah Sheil. The captain looked to be drifting wide before she stepped back to the right to beat one defender then stepped left to beat a second and run the ball in to score the decisive try from 20 metres out. From the kick off, Fer-
moy won a scrum and went searching for an equaliser. However time was not on their side and the referee blew the whistle on an enthralling game of rugby. Man of the match could easily have gone to a number of the NUIM Barnhall Babes, but in the end it was decided that the award would be split three ways. Second row Julie Clifford, who played on the wing for the second half of the match, shared the honours with two of the new girls, Ciara Baxer, who played a stormer in the second row, and Caoimhe Kenny.
Kennedy takes Leinster track title sport@gazettegroup.com
LUCA N c y cl i n g ’s R o i s i n Kennedy capped off another great season, winning the Leinster Track Championships in her last competitive event of 2011. The LCRC Senior Track Team were in action in the Leinster Track Championships at Sundrive Velodrome last Saturday, taking five medals from the event. After the Youth Teams’ success, Kennedy was the highlight of the day in the Elite Women’s Race.
The Women’s Scratch race was aggressive from lap one. World Masters Track Champion Orla Hendron (Orwell) had attacked within the first 100 metres and was countered by multi-National Road Champion Geraldine Gill (Bohermeen). There was still five women in contention approaching the final laps when Kennedy attacked hard and went clear on her own and was delighted to win her first Leinster Track Gold Medal, having won ten Leinster Road Medals in previous years.
In the veteran events , defending champion Brendan Whelan took a bronze medal in the 500m TT and followed up with a bronze in the veteran scratch race. Whelan will now begin preparations for the track cycling masters World Championships in Manchester Velodrome in October. Ross Grogan was riding his last ever junior event, before joining the senior team in 2012, and the young Lucan man was delighted to end his season with two bronze medals in the junior events. Roisin Kennedy on the podium
29 September 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 31
in association with
HURLING: LUCAN PROGRESS IN CHAMPIONSHIP
CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS MANY thanks to all our volunteers
lished for re-allocated tables and
who helped out in any way during
any spare places on tables that are
the fun day. It was great success,
not full.
and thanks to Paul Casey and Dub-
Anyone who is not yet booked and
lin team-mates, who brought Sam
wishes to attend should contact
along for all to celebrate the occa-
Paul Stapleton or Martina McGillo-
sion.
way to be included on this reserve
Well done to the senior hurlers on
The Lucan Sarsfields’ GAA Club
Good luck this weekend to senior
25 Card Drive resumes on Friday,
and inter footballers as well as
October 14 at 9pm and will continue
minor hurlers, all in championship
to May 2012 in the clubhouse bar.
action. Details in bar. Set dancing takes place 8.30 to 10pm every Wednesday night. All welcome. All tables are now booked for
DUBLIN SHC ROUND 1 Lucan Sarsfields Cuala
1-15 0-12
sport@gazettegroup.com
KEVIN O’Reilly’s contribution of ten points played a major role in shaking off a gutsy Cuala effort in Parnell Park last Saturday evening when Sean McCaffrey’s Lucan Sarsfields’ side advanced to the last eight of the re-jigged Dublin senior hurling championship when it finally started after a summer of success for the Dublin hurling and footballing fraternity. O’Reilly did the bulk of his side’s scoring, but it was down to a couple of inf luential moments from Dublin minors, Chris Crummy and Sean McLelland, to help their side over the finish line. T h e D a l ke y m e n , aided by a spate of deadballs from the likes of John Sheanon, centre-back Shane Kiely
Free-scoring With O’Reilly notching the frees — he ended with 0-8 from the placed ball — the 12th Lock side stretched out to a 0-8 to 0-5 lead, despite Waldron’s superb sideline cut. But Sheanon was in
inspired form on the resumption when he grabbed four points in succession to narrow the gap to the minimum, 0-10 to 0-9, going into the final third of the encounter. Soon after, O’Reilly was denied from the penalty line by Oisin Gough, who did superbly to push the effort around the post. Lucan corner-forward O’Reilly picked off a superb point, claiming the ball before clearing the bar on the turn to break the Cuala men’s momentum. His side finished the stronger down the final stretch, despite some top work from Kiely, before Crummy popped up to well and truly end the tie as a contest with his dramatic and welltaken goal. Elsewhere, K ilmacud Crokes’ intermediate hurlers, advanced to the final of their championship, with a
crushing 4 -17 to 0-5 win over Round Towers of Clondalkin, and will now play Naomh Barrog in the decider of that competition in the coming weeks.
Do not forget you can alwa ys
to be paid for all bookings by Octo-
www.lucansarsfields.ie.
CUALA - F O’Brien; S Holden, O Gough, R Reid; C Gough, S Kiely (0-2, 65, 0-1f), R Browne; P Schutte (0-1), C Waldron (0-1, sideline); J Sheanon (0-7, 0-6f), D Cunningham (0-1), M Schutte; B Fitzgerald, A Browne, JJ Ryan. Subs: S Timlin for Browne (ht), S O’Brien for Ryan (46), P Butler for Sheanon (59), D Holden for Fitzgerald (61). Referee: M Butler (Kilmacud Crokes)
Thanks to John Ryan, Accountant, who are this week’s sponsor.
ST PATRICK’S, PALMERSTOWN TEAM of the week was our Under-
ful Under-9s hurling blitz last Sat-
11s hurlers who had a fantastic win
urday which included St Pat’s, St
over St Anne’s and things will only
Jude’s and Stars Of Erin.
get better now that they have Dub-
Senior footballers play a cham-
lin hurling star, Shane Stapleton, as
pionship match this Saturday in
their coach.
O’Toole Park at 3.45pm against Tho-
Close behind were our Under-16s
mas Davis, while juniors are away
footballers who had a seven-point
in championship to Ballyboughal at
win over Templeogue SS, and that
3pm this Sunday.
final.
To view our website simply logon to www.stpatricksgaa.ie
Our Under-8s and 10s hurlers
Lotto: Numbers drawn were 1, 6,
pla yed St Anne’s and Na Fianna
8 and 18. There was no winner of
while, in football, the 11s and 15s lost
the €4,200 jackpot. Match any three
to St Finian’s (S) and Castleknock,
numbers winners were Finbarr
and the U-14s beat Finngallians.
O’Mahony, Paddy Hehiry and Kevin
Our sincere thanks to Aidan and his crew who organised a wonder-
LUCAN SARSFIELDS - D Cunningham; B McGarry, P Kelly, S McClelland; K Fitzgerald, M McCaffrey, M May (0-2); J McCaffrey (0-1), D Brennan; P Brennan, R Lambert (0-2), T Somers; P O’Driscoll, T Lee, K O’Reilly (0-10, 0-6f, 0-2 65). Subs: J Byrne for D Brennan (33), A White for Lee (55), C Crummy (1-0) for Somers (55), C Dooley for McGarry (61).
Mary Flannery’s team will be in charge next weekend. enter our lotto online by clicking on
win puts them into a league semi-
and a sideline from Cian Waldron, were well in contention for of the match. But Crummy came off the bench for Tommy Somers five minutes from the end to fire the goal that eventually sealed the deal, after he latched onto Mick May’s long clearance and finished clinically for the major. M a y, a l o n g w i t h McLelland, were among the central cogs to the Lucan defence which stif led Cuala’s f luidity from play, limiting their openings to the bare minimum, and kept them just behind throughout the match.
Next week’s jackpot is €3,000.
November 12. Deposits are required
A reserve list is being estab-
O’Reilly’s role rattles Cuala in round one
Lotto: Numbers drawn were 2, 14, 20 and 25. There was no winner.
the Gala Ball at Westmanstown on
ber 1 or tables can be re-allocated.
Lucan Sarsfields took their place in the last eight of the senior hurling championship with their win over Cuala
list.
their championship win over Cuala.
McDonagh, and each receive €70. Next week’s jackpot is €4,400.
WESTMANSTOWN GAELS/GARDA THE tour group departs for New
day, October 11 at 7.45pm. Good luck
York on Wednesday morning. All the
to all the participants.
travelling party must be present
Westmanstown Gaels footballers
at the Aer Lingus desk in Termi-
enjoyed a rest after the drama of
nal 2 Dublin Airport no later than
last weekend so the Under-8 hurl-
7.30am.
ers were the only team in action on
The first round games in Tom Lan-
Saturday. The juvenile club is cur-
gan Cup take place in Gaelic Park on
rently recruiting new members for
Friday, September 30. Garda GAA v
all of its teams.
PSNI at 11am and NYPD v London Met
If you are interested in joining
at 12.30pm. The finals take place in
us, please visit us any Saturday
the Icahn Stadium, Randalls Island
morning at 10am in the Garda GAA
on Saturday, October 1 at 12.30pm
grounds in Westmanstown. For
and 2.30pm.
the latest information, visit www.
The Intermediates have a championship fixture against Kilmacud Crokes at Kiltipper Road on Tues-
westmanstowngaels.ie. Thank you to the staff at Westmanstown Sports Complex.
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ALL SPORTS COVERAGE FROM27-31 PAGE 27-31 ALLOF OFYOUR YOURCASTLEKNOCK LUCAN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE
NEW GANG IN FANTASTIC DAY: ’TOWN: Dublin Westmanstown stars and Sam Maguire host Leinster turn schools’ up at Sarsfields’ rugby blitz fun P28 day P28
MAY 26, 29, 20112011 SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER SUPER STARS: STARS May award Sports Awards nominees nomirevealed nees announced inside P29 P29
GazetteSPORT
Boews believes that NUIM Barnhall has gone from strength to strength in recent years as a result of their commitment to youth development
Bowes’ Barnhall set for challenge Development officer hails youth policies ahead of push for promotion from AIL Division 2B this season STEPHEN FINDLATER lucansport@gazettegroup.com
NUIM Barnhall’s Dennis Bowes believes that his young side have the capacity to push for promotion from All-Ireland League Division 2B this term despite losing a couple of players in the close season. Now entering the second full season since the university merged with the Parsonstown club, Bowes says the ability to bring young players through has proven invaluable in pushing the club on. To this end, Robert Holt and Michael Brown have both progressed into the Leinster U-20 side that played against Ulster last Friday, and Bowes says this is indicative of the approach his side are taking. “We’ve lost a couple of players to emigration, but we have worked hard on our youth policy over the last few years. We’ve had some very young players coming through there along with the scholars.
“We are looking at developing our younger players coming through. We set ourselves a target of eight wins last year and we achieved that. We’d be looking at that target again next year. “There is enough talent within the team for us to get promoted. It’s whether we can get the consistency because we are so very young, but there is enough talent to get us somewhere. We are looking for that consistency but that’s usually the last thing to come with young fellas.” The Blue Bulls begin their campaign on Saturday afternoon on home turf against Highfield, hoping to emulate an emphatic win from last season, one in which Barnhall had a try-scoring bonus point already wrapped up by half-time. “I think it will be a bigger challenge this time. They under-estimated us last time and they pose a serious threat. They have an ex-Ireland coach in Niall O’Donovan, who will have them primed and ready to go. They have a big physical unit to come up against our young players but I think, if we stick
to our guns, we have a good opportunity of taking this one. “In preseason, we’ve done a lot of work building the team up, working in the National Boxing Stadium for physical training, wrestling and grappling and the like – a lot of strong-man training and preseason games, so we know what is coming. We just hope now the young lads are not over-awed and perform on the day.” The new setup has allowed for these innovative coaching strategies which have a number of benefits for the club: “The link-up has been great for both sides, the university and the club. The merger has been a great success. “The benefits have been that we have been able to meet the young scholars face to face and find out what kind of personalities they are. It has also allowed us to continue the culture of the club and bring it into the university and build that culture. It makes it an easy transition for players to come in from the outside.”