Lucan

Lucan GAZET TE FREE

YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Hopes for a Christmas Number One with Derek P7

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November 17, 2011

BLING IT ON: Confey College event

to help Bosnian refugees See Pages 8-9

Pretty in pink: Boys’ support for health cause PUPILS at St Mary’s Boys’ NS

Soccer: Anthony Stokes aiming for Ireland return Page 32

gave great support to the recent Breast Cancer Awareness Week, when they dressed in bright pink for a Pink Thursday event. Rory Connolly, Finn Reid, David Cunningham, Eanna Kyne and Paul McMenamin were some of the many pupils dressed in all manner of pink clothes and accessories on the day, showing support for their mothers, grandmothers, sisters and women everywhere.

Picture: Rob Love

Full Gallery on Page 10

Football: Under-14s take double after league victory Page 30

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ....................10 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Almost €2m spend on flood aftermath Council says cost of water damage works to hit €1.8m

Q PAUL HOSFORD

SOUTH Dublin County Council (SDCC) is to spend almost €2 million dealing with the aftermath of the severe flooding that engulfed the county last month, The Gazette can reveal.

At a council meeting this

week, SDCC said the cost of works relating to flood damage would amount to €1.8 million, and are to be recouped through insurance and OPW grant funding.

The figure was revealed as the council was roundly commended for its handling of the crisis.

On Monday, October 24, 88.8mm of rain fell, causing flooding in estates and chaos on the roads.

Over a 48-hour period of flooding, SDCC received 6,692 phone calls, 432 web queries and 45,000 web page views.

Full Story on Page 4

2 LUCAN GAZETTE 17 November 2011

FUNDRAISER: A SUPERB NIGHT AT THE HELIX

R1

OPINION Deputy Derek Keating on tackling obesity levels

Celebrating ‘We need a new recipe gospel music THE Lucan Gospel Singers (LGS) are thrilled to be returning to the Helix for what will be a memorable night of music on Friday, December 9.

LGS has performed in many large venues throughout the country, and has also travelled internationally, thrilling audiences wherever they have gone.

The concert will include a mix of wellknown Gospel classics, such as Happy Day, and Joyful, Joyful, and songs

specifically arranged for LGS. Keeping the community feeling going, it will also benefit a local charity. An energetic, fun night of music is guaranteed for all, so go along and help celebrate – you will also be helping a deserving cause.

Tickets, priced at €12.50, are available from The Helix Box Office at 01 700 7000, or from LGS on 086 0747 441. Doors open at 7.30pm on the night.

for healthy lifestyles’

Q DEREK KEATING Local Fine Gael Deputy

AS A former fitness instructor, with a specialised qualification in fitness instruction for children and teenagers, as well as being a keen sportsman, I know only too well the difficulties of trying to control body mass and body weight.

Obesity is the medical term used to describe the state of being overweight to the point where it is harmful to your health.

It may be hard to believe, but many Irish are so overweight they cannot be admitted to a hospital bed as it will not sustain their weight.

If this sounds extreme, just observe all around you the next time you’re in a public place.

I have struggled myself with the “out of routine eating”, because of lifestyle bad management.

It is shocking to realise that an obese adult is three times more likely to develop diabetes, compared to a person who remains within a healthy weight range. The news is even worse for children and adolescents.

The calorie intake of Irish people today is broadly the same as 20 years ago, but activity levels have dropped off.

I raised this in Dail Eireann recently with the Minister for Health, Dr James Reilly.

Because of technology, society has changed and this means that everything is now done for us.

We don’t even have to roll down our car windows any more – we sim-

ply press a button. When we enter a building, we rarely have to use stairs, because of lifts. These very small changes in activity have led to this.

The wide and constant availability of foods, many of which are high in salt sugar and fat, is also a major contributor.

Even more shocking is the fact that, between 1990 and 2000, the number of obese people aged 16 to 24 has more than tripled, rising from 3% to 10%, the experts tell us.

According to Dr O’Shea, a consultant endocrinologist at St Columcille’s Hospital in Loughlinstown in South Dublin, and St Vincent’s University Hospital, there is much concern over the number of overweight and obese young patients attending not only diabetes clinics, but general medical clinics too.

Obesity study A recent study in Britain found that children as young as three were presenting with obesity.

The strain that this puts on the pancreas... it simply would not be able to cope. This is a completely new phenomenon, which has only been seen in the last 10 to 15 years.

In dealing with this issue, balance is the key.

We need a balanced diet, but the messages we receive about food also need to be balanced.

This is why we support a ban on celebrities endorsing foods.

I would like to see them endorsing healthier foods, to make healthier

Deputy Derek Keating

foods attractive to young people.

When it comes to the issue of obesity and children, ultimately, responsibility lies at home. As I know, many teachers, schools and so on are making the effort [to eat healthily and exercise more]. However, the message needs to be delivered at home.

So, this is why [there must be] a national campaign to ensure more parents are aware of the

consequences of obesity. Research shows that obese children are more likely to become obese adults.

The message needs to come through school, but it must be delivered at home. There needs to be a campaign for parents to make them aware of this issue.

The Minister for Health has indicated that a priority should be given to calories being posted on menus, nutri-

tional labelling, and a tax on sugar-sweetened drinks.

Keating’s answer?

“It’s all about attitude”, and we, as parents, community leaders, teachers and concerned citizens, need to reverse the onset of obesity in how we lead our lives.

My recipe is: “More physical activities, less snacks, more nourishing wholesome food and less convenience foods (take aways)”.

17 November 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 3

SCHOOLS Students prepare for annual RDS event

On use of public funds in General Election

Lucanians get ready to show their big ideas Q LAURA WEBB

A RECORD number of students have entered the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition, with 130 projects from Dublin schools qualifying for the prestigious competition.

It’s the highlight of the school year for many young secondary students, and this year’s entrants have shown that the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition hasn’t lost its spark among budding scientists.

This year, 1,743 ideas were entered by 3,842 students from across the island of Ireland.

Of those, 130 projects from 55 schools in Dublin have qualified for this year’s exhibition in the RDS. In Lucan, a number of different schools will exhibit their projects during the January show, including Colaiste Phadraig, Lucan Community College and St Joseph’s secondary school.

Interest in the competition has increased over the years and already judges have remarked on the impressive nature of entries this year, based on preliminary reviews.

Each year, more and more students are entering the competition, and are battling it out for a

place in the RDS exhibition.

To allow for more students to take part, BT has extended the space at the exhibition, making 550 places available – an increase of 30 on last year – allowing up to 90 additional students to take part in January.

The Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairi Quinn, said: “In its 48th year, it is great to see the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition continue to break new records for both the number of projects entered and schools competing.

“It is hugely uplifting to see 1,743 ideas generated

ARTICLE: CLARIFIED

Several Lucan schools will also compete in the upcoming Young Scientist contest

in classrooms across Ireland, thought up by curious young minds who are eager to positively impact the world around them.

“Research and innovation are critically important to our economy, and I commend everyone involved in the BT Young

Scientist and Technology Exhibition for providing a platform to stimulate and showcase Ireland’s talent, both nationally and internationally,” he said.

The 2012 BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition takes place in the RDS from Wednes-

day, January 11 to Saturday, January 14.

For further information, see www.btyoungscientist.com; check out w w w.facebook.com/ BTYSTE; follow the event on Twitter at twitter.com/ btyste, or telephone 1800 924 362.

A PIECE on candidates’ expenditure in this year’s General Election, published in the November 10 edition, stated that some candidates received money from public funds.

This sentence should have read, “originally met from public funds”, as all candidates are required to repay this money to the exchequer.

The Standards in Public Office are satisfied that all moneys were repaid by all candidates this year.

We apologise for the confusion and are happy to clarify this.

4 LUCAN GAZETTE 17 November 2011

LABEL Questions over staffing to handle piping problems in Rowlagh estate

Councillor calls for a staff review at SDCC LABOUR Councillor Breeda Bonner has called for a review and reallocation of staffing levels in South Dublin County Council, after receiving a response to a question which indicated that the council did not have enough staff to deal with the serious piping problems within Rowlagh estate in Clondalkin.

Last winter, residents of the estate suffered from frozen pipes and were without water for long periods due to the fact that the piping outside was not laid at the correct depth, something which the council confirmed in its answer to Cllr Bonner.

At a council meeting this week, the Labour politician asked the council whether or not the necessary remedial action would be taken before the worst of winter closes in, to avert the problems which were encountered last year.

But, in a response to Cllr Bonner, the council indicated that they did not have sufficient staff to complete the job before the New Year.

“There are almost 100 services in Rowlagh Estate, mostly in Rowlagh Crescent, that have been laid into the houses from the water mains not to the required minimum depth

and are, therefore, liable to freeze in severely cold weather,” said the council.

It is the responsibility of the council to lower these services in the footpath from the water main to the house boundary and the householder’s responsibility after that into the house.

“The lowering of these services, roughly half to private houses and half to Council houses, is on the list of tasks that the Water Maintenance Section has to do. However, priority is given to fixing burst water mains and leaks on the system, be they on services, stopcocks, sluice valves or hydrants and,

with dwindling staff numbers due to retirements it is highly likely that only a fraction of these services will be lowered before the new year. Money is not the problem but staff resources,” the council continued, prompting Cllr Bonner to call on the council to review the levels.

“I am calling on the council to review their staffing levels, and to try to get some flexibility out of the Department of the Environment on this matter. Residents in Rowlagh were deprived of water last year because of wrongly laid pipes and now the council is saying

they do not have the staff to fix such a basic problem,” said Cllr Bonner.

“This means the residents may face the same problems as last year, if we encounter freezing weather once again. I am calling on the council to review their existing staffing levels and to reallocate as necessary to ensure that there are enough staff to fix this problem before bad weather closes in.

“There is nothing more basic than access to water, and if the council cannot provide that due to low staffing levels, then they need to review how they allocate their staff,”said Cllr Bonner.

Labour Councillor, Breeda Bonner

COUNCIL: INSURANCE AND OPW GRANT FUNDING

Nearly ¤2m to be spent on aftermath of flooding Q PAUL HOSFORD

SOUTH Dublin County Council will spend nearly €2 million dealing with the aftermath of the severe flooding that engulfed the county last month, the Gazette can reveal.

At a council meeting this week, senior officials said the cost of works relating to flood damage would amount to €1.8 million and are to be recouped through insurance and OPW grant funding.

The figure came as the council was roundly commended for it’s handling of the crisis.

On Monday, October 24, 88.8mm of rain fell, causing flooding in some estates and chaos on the roads.

The issue was raised under five different motions and a number of questions at this week’s meeting of the council,

where a draft report into the council’s activities on the day was presented.

The report showed that roads staff had already been dealing with localised flooding from the day before, when heavy rain also fell and that the fire brigade had to contend with a large amount of calls for assistance.

“Road maintenance staff had been dealing with localised flooding issues on Sunday, through Sunday night and again through Monday. Drainage maintenance had been dealing with drain blockages and clearing of channel screens throughout Monday also. Early contact had been made that evening between the Principal Response Agencies (South Dublin County Council, Dublin City Council, An Garda Siochana and the HSE) regarding the situation,” said the council.

“Information provided

by Dublin Fire brigade indicates that requests for assistance at flooding incidents were starting to come in through the East Region Communications Centre from 5pm that evening at an average of 250 calls per hour. This compares to an average of seven calls per hour earlier in the same day,” the report said.

Speaking at the meeting, council management rejected the notion that cleaning of drains or gullies would have made any real difference, saying the drains in the county were cleaned on an ongoing basis, but there are 42,000 within the local authority’s remit and they would have to have been 28 times the current size to cope with all of the rain water.

Councillors commended the work done by council staff under tough conditions, with William Lavelle (FG) saying that

lessons had been learned from the historic levels of flooding seen in 2001.

“I commend the council, the Gardai and the workers who were on duty that day.

“It is important to note that the same amount of rain fell on October 24 as fell on November 4 and 5, 2001 and Lucan did not experience the same problems as a decade ago.”

M e a nw h i l e , I n d e pendent councillor Guss O’Connell said that, while gullies had been cleared, he felt that some of the flooding was “preventable” and hoped the council could identify areas in which this was the case.

Mayor Caitriona Jones (Lab) commended the council’s “communication and consistency” and said that the frontline staff and representatives had done “incredibly well”.

17 November 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 5

HOUSES Minister’s approval for funding

€10m for damage by floods LABOUR TD Robert Dowds has welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton, that a fund of €10 million will be made available to people whose homes were damaged in the recent flooding.

Homeowners across Dublin were left with damaged homes following the October 24 flooding, which saw an entire month’s rainfall come down in just a day.

Deputy Dowds said that the fund would help those who were unable to claim insurance for the damage.

“I greatly welcome the €10 million flood relief fund announced by the Government, which will aid those homeowners affected by the recent flooding.

“The fund will be great

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comfort for those families whose insurance will not cover the damage which they sustained in their homes,” he said.

Deputy Dowds went on to say that the fund is the result of Minister Burton listening to those who were affected by the flooding.

“I also wish to point out that this new fund has come about because the Labour Party are in Government.

“I want to thank the Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton for listening to the concerns of residents, and acting swiftly to protect their homesteads.

“I recently visited some of those affected by the flooding in Lealand and Woodford, and I know this will come as a great relief to them.

“I will continue to

Labour Deputy Robert Dowds welcomed the creation of a flood damage fund

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‘I recently visited some of those affected by the flooding, and I know this will come as a great relief to them’

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Deputy Robert Dowds

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press the council to make better provision for extreme weather events such as this, which would appear to be becoming more common,” said Deputy Dowds.

LIBRARY: FREE ADVICE

Business initiatives ALL through November, South Dublin Libraries will be celebrating the huge range of free resources to businesses they are offering with an exciting programme of events.

If you need some insider information to help you get your business moving, why not “borrow” an expert and get ready to turn your business round?

If it’s business planning, marketing and promotion, finance or startup, there’ll be somebody there with expert advice, as well as the County Library’s business zone, and classes on using social media.

For a full list of events, dates and venues, click on the website www. southdublinlibraries.ie, or email sbermingham@ sdublincoco.ie.

6 LUCAN GAZETTE 17 November 2011

COUNCIL: COMMUNITY

Number of walks planned SOUTH Dublin County Council is proposing a number of walking and cycling routes to serve local communities throughout the county.

These will create more sustainable local neighbourhoods, with direct pedestrian and cycle links to local destinations.

In many cases, the links are based on existing shortcuts or footpaths; enabling cyclists and pedestrians, including those with decreased mobility, to access safe, hard-surfaced and direct routes to the local shops, schools, community centres, and on to bus, rail or Luas stops, cycle routes or to the park or playground.

For maps, descriptions of each project, and a feedback form on each route, the council is asking people to visit www. sdcc.ie.

TRANSPORT Cllr calls for more route departures

Dublin Bus rejects cuts claim

by Lavelle Q PAUL HOSFORD lucan@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN Bus has denied claims by local Fine Gael councillor, William Lavelle, that it had cut bus services in Willsbrook.

In a statement circulated this week, Cllr Lavelle called on Dublin Bus, and the National Transport Authority, to reinstate four peak-hour morning buses to the 25A and 25B routes, following an analysis of timetables before and after the Network Direct changes.

Cllr Lavelle said that

the issue of buses not arriving between 7.10am and 8.10am was a source of concern for local residents.

“I continue to receive large number of representations every week from local bus users who are exasperated at the deterioration in local bus services. “Lucan is losing out, as Dublin Bus recently added extra buses to the 66X route which bypasses Lucan.

“I met with Dublin Bus management two weeks ago, and I was shocked at their absolute refusal to

Local Fine Gael councillor William Lavelle (inset) has called on Dublin Bus to increase departures on the 25A and 25B routes. However, the company refutes his claims, and says that extra-capacity buses are now in use.

respond to the concerns being raised by Lucan commuter and their public representatives.

“Dublin Bus’ argument that there is, in fact, an increase in buses leaving Lucan in the three-hour period between 7am and 10am is irrelevant, as it is clear that bus-service frequency has reduced in the critical one-hour peak period, best described by departures from origin between 7:10am and 8:10am, which, according to local consultation with bus users, is clearly the period of highest demand,” said Cllr Lavelle.

“This deterioration in bus services is leading to former bus users now returning to private carusage which, in turn, is leading to increased traffic congestion and car journey times.

“I have this week writ-

ten to Dublin Bus and the National Transport Authority seeking reinstatement of these four buses,” said Cllr Lavelle.

“Extra buses were recently added to the 66X route. It is only right that the under-pressure 25A and 25B services now get the same treatment.

“In particular, I am calling on the National Transport Authority (NTA) to expedite their planned post-implementation review of the Network Direct changes, which I was promised when I met with NTA chief executive, Gerry Murphy, at a council committee meeting before the summer,” he said.

In response, Dublin Bus rejected the claims that buses were being cut, and said the morning commute had been made more convenient for people in South Lucan.

A spokesperson said: “Cllr Lavelle cites ‘16’ as the number of 25A and 25X departures from Lucan South in the morning peak, and that this figure has been reduced to 12, post [the] Network Direct [changes].

“He cites Willsbrook as the reference point, but the following departures from Griffeen – 07.35, 07.45, 07.50 and 08am – never served Willsbrook, so the number of departures remains the same.

“In addition, as part of the Lucan phase of Network Direct, Dublin Bus deployed five VT-model buses on Routes 25A and 25B. More commonly known as a triaxle, it has a larger passenger-carrying capacity than a standard bus, and can carry 30 additional customers. This provides an increase in passenger-carrying capacity of 150 passengers,” said

the spokesperson.

“Another benefit of the revised 25A and 25B services is that they now bypass Chapelizod Village, before travelling down dedicated bus lanes on The Quays.

“These measures have resulted in significantly shorter journey times, meaning that passengers can leave later for their morning departure to the city centre.

“Regarding Cllr Lavelle’s point about additional 66X departures, I can confirm that that no additional departures were placed on Route 66X. “The only change made to Route 66X was that some departures now start at Westmoreland Street, instead of at UCD. The number of departures on the service remains the same,” said the Dublin Bus spokesperson.

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17 November 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 7

CHARITY Song to raise vital funds for Pieta House

Keating looks to hit the top of the charts Q PAUL HOSFORD

LOCAL Fine Gael TD Derek Keating is looking to make it to the top of the Christmas charts – and its all for a good cause.

Keating is the executive director of a group of cross-party TDs and Senators who have come together to record a song for this year’s Christmas charts.

Its hoped the single, a cover of Simon and Garfunkle’s, Bridge Over Troubled Water, will raise vitally needed funds for Pieta House, the suicide awareness charity of which Keating is a director.

Keating has raised the

issue a number of times in recent years and is looking to use the platform of the Dail to put the issue firmly on the national agenda.

“From back when I was a councillor, right until I was elected as a TD, I had one mission and that was to bring about awareness of suicide.

“To that end, I set about bringing together a group of members of the Oireachtas with the aim of making a CD to bring about awareness of the issue.”

With that in mind, Keating recruited a stellar cast, with Jim Sheridan, musical director of The Late, Late Show coming

aboard as musical director, and Dave Kearney joining as producer.

The group have also enlisted the talents of Lucan Gospel Singers and the Dublin Gospel Choir, with Keating joined by a number of members of the Oireachtas.

Minister for Social Protection Joan Burton, Minister of State for European Affairs, Lucinda Creighton, Minister of State for Sport, Michael Ring and Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney have all got on board the project.

Also getting involved are Independent TDs Stephen Donnelly, Fin-

Cllr Derek Keating and recruits rehearsing the song

ian McGrath and Mick Wallace.

Other TDs that have got involved include Fine Gael deputies Regina Doherty, Frank Feighan, Tony McLaughlin, Terence Flanagan and Peter Mathews.

Sinn Fein’s Padraig Mac Lochlainn is also weighing in behind the initiative, while Fianna

Fail deputy Robert Troy is being joined by his Seanad colleague, Averil Power and Labour Senator Lorraine Higgins is also on board, along with Independent Senator Eamonn Coghlan.

The group have been engaged in rehearsals for the last week and hope to have the recording done soon.

The h project j iis being b i supported by Noel Recruitment, to ensure that all money will go to Pieta House.

“We have one goal; to send the message that there is help out there.

We want to give people the message that Pieta House is there to help,” said Deputy Keating.

COUNCIL

Digital Hub is on agenda SOUTH Dublin County Council has said that a proposed Digital Hub in Palmerstown has not gone off the agenda.

Responding to a question from independent councillor Guss O’Connell, which asked for “an update on the County Library Development Programme and to m iindicate the progress that iis being made to realise tthe objective of a Digital Hub for Palmerston?”

H ccouncil management, ssaid that they would conttinue working towards tthe objective.

“The provision of a library/digital hub in the Palmerston area is an objective of the council as outlined in the Library Development Plan 20072011.

“The Library Service is always open to seizing opportunities that might arise for the improvement of library infrastructure,” said the council response.

8 LUCAN GAZETTE 17 November 2011

Books lead to art show MODIEFIED Expression is a unique exhibition is on display at the County Library, Tallaght, until Friday, November 18.

T he exhibition is described by curator, Angela O’Kelly, as a collection of works by 14 emerging and established applied artists, whose work is inspired by the written word, letter art, recycling, paper cuts, binding and book art.

This is a truly beautiful exhibition, featuring calligraphic text, deconstructed books, intricately hand-cut paper, fibre manipulation and recycled and re-sculptured works – where literary works have been transformed into visual ones, creating powerful new forms of expression.

All aspects of books were considered in this

process, from the text itself to the structure and binding, the paper, the print and the illustrations.

The artwork is inspired by the written work of authors who participated in the literature element of the Kilkenny Arts Festival 2011, including Michael Longley and Leanne O’Sullivan, who feature strongly.

The exhibition was officially opened last week, in the presence of the Mayor of South Dublin County, Caitriona Jones and special guest, Gerard Smyth, poet and former managing editor of the Arts section of The Irish Times.

For more information, contact Una Phelan at County Library, Tallaght; email uphelan@sdublincoco.ie, or telephone 01 462 0073.

IT’S YOUR STORY School students’ efforts

A Bling and Buy sale for Bosnians Q ROSALEEN POWER

PRO, Confey College

IN APRIL, 2011, a Kildare charity, Rebuild for Bosnia, took 14 Transition Year students from

Confey College on a mission of mercy to Bosnia Herzegovina, where the organisation has been working with ethnically displaced families for the past 12 years.

The mission of mercy was to become a lifechanging experience for the students, such as 16-year-old Chris Devitt.

One of the students who made the trip, he returned with a different view of life.

“Before I went to Bosnia Herzegovina, I was only interested in what I could get for myself.

“I realised, when I was in the midst of great pain and huge poverty that I had never been exposed to before, how insignificant all these material things are, and that I really didn’t need them,” said Chris.

Patricia Keane, chairperson of the charity, who has been at the helm of the organisation for 13 years, and who was recently awarded County Kildare’s International Person of the Year, was blown away by the reac-

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‘Prior to the students’ trip abroad, they had no understanding of ethnic cleansing, or what it involved’

Confey College students were happy to strike a pose,

tion of the young group.

She said: “They were so eager to return home and get the money together to build a home for a couple they encountered.”

She was referring to Evo and Zorka Grgic, who, at present, live in a 16x12 ft refugee shack.

Prior to the war, they lived in a substantial three-story house in central Bosnia.

Patricia says that, prior to the students’ trip abroad, “they had no understanding of ethnic cleansing, or what it involved”.

“I took them to ethnically-cleansed villages, where they experienced

the areas where Croat ethnic families had been expelled from.

“Then, they met the families whose lands and homes they had visited, who were now occupying shacks.”

The students were stunned into hours of silence, having encountered a couple who were not only expelled from their home, but had endured mass rape, a resulting pregnancy from the rape, a suicide jump from a 40ft bridge, close relatives being blown apart in front of them and, through no fault of their own, being made to endure inhuman liv-

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

ing conditions in refugee shacks.

Patricia said: “One moment everyone was listening intently to Evo and Zorka Grgic share their story, and the next moment a river of tears swept through the students and teachers.

“It was to be the moment when everyone realised how good life was for them, and how they needed to help the Grgic family.”

And so, the campaign began to get the necessary funds to rebuild the life of a traumatised couple.

On Sunday, November 27, Confey’s Angels of Mercy, in association

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17 November 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 9

to help refugees rebuild their lives

COUNCIL: TOTAL COST OF CLEANUP

2011 sees eight more Halloween bonfires THE number of illegal Halloween bonfires in South Dublin rose this year, following a huge decrease in the numbers last year.

Councillor Emer Higgins (FG) asked this week’s South Dublin County Council Meeting for a “report on the costs of the cleanup operation post-Halloween 2011?”

The council’s response showed that there was eight more than last year.

“Preliminary indica-

with Rebuild for Bosnia, are holding an elaborate Bling And Buy sale in Leixlip Community Hall, Caption’s Hill.

Ciara Daly, another one of the students on that trip, wants to encourage everyone to come and join them in achieving their goal.

She said: “We can’t do this without your support.”

The group have all kinds of wonderful new and slightly-used electrical goods, clothing, musical instruments, household items, a collector’s collection of classical LPs, dvds,

Christmas decorations and jewellery for sale.

Ciara said: “We have organised a Santa’s Grotto, where Santa will be in attendance for children from 11am to 2pm.

“We have mulled wine and mince pies for the adults, as we can’t omit the most important people of all from the celebrations!

“The children will also enjoy face-painting, a kiddie’s fun fair, tea, coffee and a cake sale,” she said.

Ciara is encouraging everyone to come along, as there’s something for all the family.

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tions at this stage estimate the number of bonfires to be similar to last year 2010 when there were 343 in the county – figures captured to date show a total of 351 for 2011. This is a marginal increase – 2.3% on last year,” the council said, which did not have a total amount for the cleanup, though last year’s cost €77,050.

“In order to divert household material being used on bonfires, free access to all residents of

the county to the civic amenity, Ballymount, was arranged on October 29.

“The cleanup operation is currently taking place and the total costs are being compiled.

Material left after bonfires will be removed.

However, the damaged area will not be reinstated. There will be a yearon-year comparison of the sites, which will be used in the development of proposals for 2012,” the council report said.

10 LUCAN GAZETTE 17 November 2011

SCHOOLS St Mary’s Boys NS supporting breast cancer

Daniel O’Connor, Shaiyaaan Awan, Robert Moloney, Rhys Gilson and Luke Monaghan

Joshua Bell Curran, Simon Morgan, Luke Doyle, Herkus Sviglinskas, Rory Connolly, Finn Reid, David Cunningham, Eanna Kyne and Paul McMenamin. Pictures: Rob Love

Aaron Dunne, Matthew Dunne and Jake Rooney

Boys look pretty in pink – just for a day!

ITH schoolchildren all over the country doing their bit to help support their mothers, grandmothers, sisters and women during the recent Breast Cancer Awareness Week, the boys at St Mary’s Boys NS were eager to show their support too, enthusiastically dressing up for the school’s Pink Thursday event.

Sporting a pink shirt and tie, local Fine Gael deputy Derek Keating called to the school to congratulate the boys and

W

teachers on their initiative, with Deputy Derek’s subtle visual support lost in a sea of pink. The boys wore everything from simple pink t-shirts to pink crowns, wigs, make-up and more, with a few rebel supporters proudly wearing blue – all of which helped create a fun feeling for the day.

However, the highlight of the day was when all the boys lined up to create a football pitch-sized pink ribbon, the international symbol for the cause.

James Hunt, Eoin Kilduff, Luke Fitzsimons and Joseph Dunne

Nathan Larkin, Samuel Keogh, Shane Murtagh and Colm Mulvihill

Robert Drauusin, Luca Kavanagh and Nico de Leon

Anne Manning’s wand magics Fine Gael deputy Derek Keating into a giant pink ribbon

Jack Lawless, Ryan O’Connor, Glenn Aka, Ben Mulholland and Dylan Pierce

Everyone lined up in the school grounds to help create a giant pink robbon, highlighting the cause and showing the pupil’s support

17 November 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs

Enjoy shopping and pampering in Carlow at a comfortable price CARLOW has never been more affordable for a pre-Christmas shopping break and, with the fourstar Talbot Hotel located just a short stroll from all the attractive shopping areas, it is convenient, too.

The Talbot Value Shopping Package includes attractive discounts for the best boutiques in Carlow, which includes an exclusive guide to the best shops in Carlow town.

After the day’s shopping, attentive staff will bring your shopping bags to your room, while you relax and enjoy a sumptuous meal in the cosy fourthfloor Liberty Tree restaurant. Pampering is also important, and the hotel is offering 50% off a facial or massage in its Pure Beauty spa.

Stay at the hotel mid-week for €149 for two nights’ bed and full Irish breakfast, and a fourcourse meal each evening. Winter weekend packages are available from €99 PPS. For further information, see www.talbotcarlow. ie, or telephone 059 915 3000.

any trip to Belfast, hundreds of media staff from all around the world were delighted to attend a day of music- and culture-driven events the fine setting of the Titanic Drawing Offices helped to engage the Belfast guests with local craic agus ceol

The iconic Titanic Signature Building’s exterior is another sign of the modern face of Belfast’s contemporary cityscape

24 LUCAN GAZETTE 17 November 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Same Old Moon

DALKEY-based St Patrick’s Dramatic Society are staging their latest memorable production, following the fortunes and family life of Brenda Barnes. Brenda’s life is anything but straightforward, as we see on her funny and sometimes dramatic journey from childhood to her 40s, thanks to her eccentric and sometimes fiery family. See the society’s production nightly at 8pm until Saturday, November 19, with admission costing €18/€15.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 A Skull in Connemara

THE Mill presents the second play in the Leenane trilogy, by playwright Martin McDonagh. In a rural Connemara town, a gravedigger prepares for his annual autumnal task of disinterring old, forgotten bones in the graveyard to make room for new arrivals. However, with his late wife’s remains due to be moved, rumours about her sudden death begin to surface ... This play runs nightly at 8pm until Saturday, November 19, with admission costing €10.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Sweet Charity

READY for another hit show from Coolmine Musical Society? Then come along to Draiocht, where the highlyskilled players are marking their 30th year in show-stopping style, thanks to their production of Sweet Charity. New York in the 1960s will blaze into life on stage, with such memorable songs as Hey Big Spender, If My Friends Could See Me Now, and Rhythm of Life to enjoy, all in the name of following the ups and downs of lovelorn dancehall hostess, Charity Hope Valentine. Coolmine MS’s production runs nightly at 8pm until Saturday, November 19, with admission costing €20/€17.

You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it think that Cinema really needs this version of the timeless, and seemingly endlesslyreheated and reserved, tale, with this latest reimagining being a little too bodacious rather than gracious with the source material...

The Mess-keteers

It’s one for all, and all for one – edging towards the exit, that is, with an uninspired rehash of a timeless tale ...

Q KATE CROWLEY

EVEN unf lappable, battle-hardened cinema reviewers could be forgiven for shrieking and eeking when faced with the sight of not one, not three, but two Nicolas Cage films opening at the same time. Two! Why, the very thought of cuddling up with Nic for his latest offerings, Trespass, and Justice, is almost – almost – enough to send yours truly barrelling through the doors to see the latest Twilight film (as Twilight The Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 1 opens this week).

I say “almost”, as even my darling, Emo-friendly daughter, Crowleyetta, knows that there’s only one way I’ll go to see, and review, another Twilight film – at gunpoint.

And so, shrieking and eeking away from angstdriven vampires (oooh, the angst, the angst!), and eeking equally loudly

FILM OF THE WEEK: The Three Musketeers ++ (12A) 110 mins Director: Paul S Anderson Starring: Logan Lerman, Matthew MacFayden, Ray Stevenson, Orlando Bloom, Milla Jovovich, unlikely shenanigans

OUR VERDICT: MANY cinemagoers will have had more Three Musketeer films that they’ve had hot dinners, with it being a timeless – but, perhaps, a little over-familiar – tale that needs something special, or different, to really stand out. Although the director, and cast, gamely have a go at modernising some aspects of Dumas’ tale, their efforts simply sit uncomfortably with the source material ...

away from Mr Cage, my dainty feet take me (and thee) directly to ...

Actually, I’m just popping on my time travel beret, and stepping back in time to the period commonly known as Approximately Three Weeks Ago, and the release of a film which I didn’t review at the time, but will do just fine, today.

After all, I can’t stand angst-driven vampires and werewolves, but I don’t mind a shaggy tale of musketeers, and one of cinema’s most revisited inspirations has been, errr, revisited, in this lat-

est version of Dumas’ The Three Musketeers.

Actually, there’s not much more that I need to say to explain the film, folks, as I doubt very much that very many of you aren’t fully aware of the timeless tale of derring-do and French heroics, with this version pretty much following the standard template, on which, more anon.

For now, it’s a “Non!” to following Dumas’ tale too closely from the very start, as director, Anderson, introduces the musketeers undergoing a heist, of sorts, before the ever-

treacherous Milady de Winter (Jovovich) does a runner with the goods.

Okay... so, they’re the three musketeers of the title – so, where’s the fourth guy, who everyone expects? Enter surferdude-esque D’Artagnan (Lerman), who soon annoys, impresses and joins the Three (Macfayden, Stevenson and Evans), just in time to be caught up in a plot by Cardinal Richelieu (Waltz).

The holy man has a wholly cunning plan to control Le King (Fox), with a nice little war with England being his grand plot, just grand, merci.

With Richelieu and Winter playing an icily cold game of politics, and wishing to rule the regal roost behind the scenes, The Thre- sorry, Fousorry, The Guys must thwart their cunning plans, and prevent war with England.

For zee King! For zee honour of France! For zee

probable sequel!

However, mein Gott!

The Three Musketeers veers wildly into French farce throughout, but never in the best way.

The characters are too ... modern; a tricky thing to pull off, and, frankly, Anderson fails.

I can’t quite knock the director with that tooeasy gibe of his being “best known as a videogame film maker”, as not every film made about a computer game is always awful. (I quite enjoyed the somewhat incoherent Silent Hill film-of-thesame-game, for example.)

Still, Anderson, probably best-known for his interminably awful Resident Evil films (also starring his wife, Jovovich, in equally interminably awful roles), has done it again – using his reverse Midas touch (the Sadim?), he’s turned literary gold into cinematic straw. More musketeers?

Zut alors, non!

17 November 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING Games giant has to fight its corner SHANE DILLON

THESE are dark days for Nintendo. Once an unassailable giant in gaming, the company recently posted its first publiclyreported loss in decades.

Actually, although it reported a huge loss – almost mirroring the healthy profit it posted in the previous year – some industry analysts were expecting an even larger loss, with wild talk of 100-billion yen on the cards, for a while.

What on earth has taken Nintendo to this sorry state of affairs?

Well, the reasons have been many, and complex, all combining to hack away at the company’s economic fortunes.

For starters, an obvious problem has been its 3DS console, which has bled away profits on hardware and software losses.

Despite being a technological marvel – with nothing comparable to it on the market, or on the way – and despite impressing most, but not all, of those who’ve used it, sales have been much slower than expected.

This doesn’t come as a total surprise – Hollywood has noticed that 3D films at cinemas have significantly plateaued, while 3D-enabled televisions are virtually glued to the shelves, stubbornly

refusing to sell.

The “obvious next step forward in visual entertainment” seems to have been embraced instead as “an interesting, but passing fad” by consumers, as well as gamers.

In the face of it, despite the impressive hardware, but battling consumer interest, perhaps that’s why the 3DS hasn’t caught on, impacting on Nintendo’s fortunes with the losses that it incurs on hardware sales.

Despite being able to magic up such innovative tech and hardware, Nintendo’s also facing a perception that its hardware platforms are approaching the end of their life cycle, with the end of the Wii in sight, while its successor is in development.

This further weakens titles available for it, creating a dragging anchor effect on companies willing to develop for it.

This isn’t an entirely fair summary, as there’s still plenty of life in the “aging” console, but, with much of the world’s media focused on the cool new kid in class – Apple’s various IOS-driven gadgets – while the other gaming heavyweights – Sony and Microsoft – are much more publicly slugging it out between them on the main street, Nintendo’s been left to sink into the background.

Bytesandpieces Have a yen for original gameplay?

JAPANESE developer, Kairosoft, have enjoyed enormous success with their resolutely oldschool, pixel-led titles, with each of their “simple” games consuming days of gamers’ lives.

That sounds extreme, but, after all, behind the cutesy graphics in their games (whether running your own high school or managing a Formula One team) lies very compulsive gameplay, as the intricacies of managing financial systems, organising and planning layouts and so on make the time fly by – as I’ve found, by missing bus stops while engrossed d in i perfecting my shopping centre’s layout. Oops.

As such, for something a little different, why not consider Oh! Edo Towns for your IOS-driven gadget? Available for €2.99 on iTunes, this is the chance to design and maximise your very own Feudal Japan town. That probably sounds about as enticing as an omnibus edition of Eastenders on TV, but this very Eastern title, complete with addictive, good-humoured pick-up-and-play fun, is another absolute gem from Kairosoft.

The forthcoming Nintendo Wii title, Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, can be expected to generate healthy revenues for the company, as the games company faces into an unwelcome battle to reverse the shift in its fortunes

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

‘Currency issues have also proven to be major thorns in the company’s side, with the dollarto-yen rates across the past year having a particularly painful effect on Nintendo’s finances’

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

As if these weren’t difficult enough problems, currency issues have also proven to be major thorns in the company’s side, with the dollar-toyen rates across the past year, having a particularly painful effect on Nintendo’s finances.

With such negative external factors for any company to deal with, it’s no wonder that the Kyoto-based company has revealed just how much its sales, and profits, have plunged.

It’s quite a turnaround from the previous fiscal year for Nintendo, when it posted its usual healthy profits, despite the challenges facing gaming’s

drift at physical makets at present. After all, for every Gears of War 3 (XBox 360), Uncharted 3 (PlayStation 3) or, even, Angry Birds (iPhone) success story, a hundred other titles on all platforms sink without trace.

That’s the bad news.

But, of course, Nintendo’s far from finished, just yet.

True, the 3DS has not taken off as expected, but the regular DS handheld is still doing okay, and, if sales of the Wii have also significiantly slowed down – with the negative impact of not having the same software range and products as its rivals – Nintendo still has key gaming aces up

its sleeve.

One of these is the forthcoming next installment in the long-running Zelda series, Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword; a title that’s a cornerstone product for Nintendo to remind rivals, and gamers, that it still has some outstanding cards in its hand.

Now 25-years-old, the Zelda series has a longevity, and pedigree, that few games can lay claim to, with the Wii Motion Plus proving an entirely natural fit for the protaganist, Link, and his adventures.

With this forthcoming title (and the help of a certain super plumber’s new release), Nintendo can remind gamers, and the wider industry, that it can deliver the goods when it needs to.

And Nintendo needs to. Now, more than ever, the gaming giant needs to start landing some wellaimed blows on its rivals, before it goes down for the count ...

GAZETTE

26 LUCAN GAZETTE 17 November 2011

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GazetteSPORT

NO BOUNDARIES:

Claire Shillington on her Ireland cricket journey so far Page 29

MOTOR RACING: FORMER WORLD CHAMPION TO RACE ON SPECIALLY-CREATED TRACK

Button presses Dublin into F1 action in summer sport@gazettegroup.com

FOR the first time, one of the leading F1 teams in the world will take to the streets of Dublin next year when Jensen Button will bring his Vodafone McLaren-Mercedes F1 car to the Bavaria City Racing Dublin event on June 3, 2012.

Former World Champion Button will treat race spectators to a Formula 1 masterclass on a specially designed track that starts

at the Convention Centre, continues along Custom House Quay before crossing Butt Bridge, chicanes at D’Olier Street, zips past College Green and the Central Bank on Dame Street before reaching the chequered flag on O’Connell Bridge.

Bavaria City Racing’s Dublin ambassador, Eddie Jordan, said: “I’m hugely excited about Bavaria City Racing Dublin; this is something spectacular, something

you’ve never witnessed before and I, for one, can’t wait.”

The City Racing extravaganza is a free public event, and over 150,000 people are expected to line the streets of the capital to enjoy the best the world of motor sport has to offer.

Gavin Collins, of Bavaria City Racing, said: “We are delighted that the Vodafone-McLaren F1 team is coming to Dublin. They are a premier F1

Keith O’Haire, from Gleeson, and Robert Hyland, of Vodafone Ireland, at the launch of this unique F1 event

team and Jenson is one of the leading drivers in world motorsport.”

Robert Hyland, Sponsorship Manager at Vodafone Ireland, said: “We are truly excited at the prospect of bringing the

Formula 1 experience to Dublin. Jenson is one of the sport’s great ambassadors, and we are delighted to be able to help showcase what he and the cars can do.

“It will be a massive

event for the city that will be remembered for years to come.”

For those who want to get closer to the action, there are three ticketed premium performance zones on the track at

Customs House Quay, O’Connell Bridge and at the Main F1 Paddock on North Wall Quay.

Tickets for these areas are priced from €75.90 and are available from Ticketmaster.

28 LUCAN GAZETTE 17 November 2011

GazetteSport Sport

Keeping the guests entertained were a number of acts

All smiles for Sarsfields

Dancing a special night away

Sars’ gala night

Lucan hail 125 years of success HE Gala Ball was the final and biggest event of the year in which Lucan Sarsfields celebrated their 125-year history.

A packed Westmanstown saw 430 members, friends and special guests sing and dance the night away to music from Streetwise and Tropical Storm.

The president of the GAA, Christy Cooney, and Andy Kettle and John Costello from Dublin County Board, along with Patsy Powell from the Camogie Board were all special invited guests on this special occasion.

Westmanstown Sports and Conference Centre were very accommodating hosts and Lucan Sarsfields would like to thank the event sponsors – Trimfold Envelopes, Danwood, Cassidy Travel, Innovative Print Solution, ilivephotos, Superquinn and Eoin Scanlan.

T

Christy Cooney and Andy Kettle were among the dignitaries on hand to celebrate the gala night

The dream team get ready to enjoy the evening

The happy smiles say it all

17 November 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 29

in association with

No boundaries for Shillington

Malahide’s Clare Shillington has travelled to Bangladesh to try to help Ireland’s women cricketers to a World Cup in India next year

THE influx of youth is such that Clare Shillington made her international cricket debut the same year one of her team-mates was born.

Far from veteran status, it is more a statement on the prodigious talent that Ireland has to pick from, as the country’s women aim to make similar waves to those stirred up by the Irish men in the past four years.

They are bidding to qualify for the World Cup this week in Bangladesh, needing to upset the world rankings and win against Pakistan or West Indies – as well as the hosts and Japan – in the

initial group phase to take a direct route to the finals in India. Finish lower than the top two, and they go into the murky waters of a repechage round.

Taking on the chal-

turns 14 during the tournament.

Tice became the second youngest women’s international earlier this year and has since taken eight wickets in just four

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

‘It is a huge commitment, but I wouldn’t still be playing if I didn’t love it and think we have a realistic chance of qualifying for the World Cup’ --------------------------------------------------------

lenge, Irish cricket sought a special dispensation to allow two of their number to make the trip, 15-yearold Kim Garth and, most notably, Elena Tice, who

Clare Shillington in Ireland action

international games, catapulting her into the team.

She was born in 1997, the year Malahide cricket club member Shillington made her Irish debut. She was a precocious teenage batting talent at the time but told the Gazette just prior to flying out to the competition that selection runs along Sir Alex Ferguson’s tenet that if you’re good enough, you’re old enough.

Asked how she feels about possibly having made her debut before Tice was born, Shillington laughs.

“We haven’t talked about it but that is an interesting one! That makes me feel very old.

Just hearing their date of births... It’s fantastic that Elena is able to do it physically at that age; her and Kim Garth.

“As a dynamic in the team, it’s incredible. I’m a good bit older but we do come together and age doesn’t really mat-

ter when you’re playing cricket.

“Everyone does look out for each other but I hope I can pass on some of the experience that I have built up over 14 years as a cricketer and the standards you should have. I’m highly competitive so I do my best to pass that on to anyone coming onto the squad.”

From a preparation perspective, the side has travelled in confident mood, with both Shillington and captain Isobel Joyce – sister of Irish men’s star Ed – labelling the group the best prepared side ever put together.

The squad signed up to a mantra of “unpaid professionalism”, replicating full-time training around their working or student lives with regular 6.30am fitness calls, similar to those employed by Dublin’s senior footballers last January prior to their AllIreland victory.

It is a necessary effort to be competitive against countries that have gone the full-time route in recent years. Shillington played against a touring Pakistan side in the early part of this decade, a side that were comfortably beaten by Ireland in what was their first season of the professional era.

Since then, they have risen to a place above Ireland in the rankings and won a Champion’s Challenge tie last summer in South Africa with plenty

to spare.

Speaking about playing full-time athletes, Shillington takes a pragmatic approach: “It’s a killer, but you have to play with what you’ve got. We all understand that money makes the world go round; cricket in Pakistan is part of their culture and everyday life, while it’s down the pecking order in Ireland.

“If we were professionals and it was our job, I’ve no doubt we’d pass the likes of Pakistan, the West Indies and higher because there is the talent there.

“Sometimes it is souldestroying to see how quickly a team like that can jump up, but we deal with what we can and made a commitment to be unpaid professionals.

“It is a huge commitment but I wouldn’t still be doing it if I didn’t love it and think we have a realistic chance of winning.

At this stage, I definitely think we can qualify. I started my international career in India and would like to finish it there in a World Cup. “It’s been quite a long preparation. I’ve been involved in quite a lot of these trips and it’s definitely the most prepared we’ve been from the amount of work, time and effort we have put in.

I’m glad to be getting out of an indoor training hall and getting on a cricket pitch.”

FastSport

World and Olympic champ helps Gymnastics launch THE national governing body for Gymnastics in Ireland re-launched their brand last week with the help of Olympic and World medallist gymnast, Louis Smith, last week.

Gymnastics Ireland’s brand transformation includes the launch of a new website (www. gymnasticsireland.com), Facebook Page (Gymnastics Ireland) and Twitter account (@Gymnasticsire).

Smith was joined by leading female gymnast, Emma Lunn and Irish Rhythmic athlete, Aisling McGovern, both from Maynooth. The 2008 Beijing Olympic Bronze medallist also coached a group of young Irish 2016 Olympic hopefuls on the morning of the launch.

Ciaran Gallagher, Gymnastics Ireland chief executive officer, said: “We are delighted that Louis could be here to help us launch the new Gymnastics Ireland brand. He is not only one of the best gymnasts in the world, but he is also a great personality and really conveys what Gymnastics Ireland is now all about.”

Ireland trio make the team of World Cup ’11 LEINSTER ‘S Brian O’Driscoll, Ronan O’Gara and Paul O’Connell were the Ireland players who made the official Rugby World Cup dream team, voted for by international fans of the New Zealand celebration of the sport’s Facebook page.

Ireland captain O’Driscoll took nearly 50% of the votes to make the Dream Team. A

consistent performer for Ireland, O’Driscoll added to his impressive tally of international tries with a well-taken try in the pool match against Italy.

Based on suggestions from the online community, a shortlist of names per position was created each day and put to the vote, with over 160,000 votes being cast along the way.

The other players in the XV were made up of players from the semi-finalists, Wales, New Zealand and France.

30 LUCAN GAZETTE 17 November 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Weston back in the hunt for Division 2 promotion BACK-to-back wins for Weston has reignited their push for the promotion play-off place in Leinster hockey’s division two, with Simon Pearson proving their key man in defeating Trinity at Griffeen Valley Park with a 2-1 win.

All the goals came in the first half as Pearson drove past a couple of players before finding a shot on the run. It was saved and his rebound clipped the post, leaving a 50-50 scramble for the loose ball which Daryl Carey won to scramble in. Pearson completed his second run, waltzing through to make it 2-0 before Freddie Hill gave his side a lifeline at the second attempt in the 33rd minute.

Both sides had their moments in the second half with Keith Young doing well to deny four Trinity corners. The students went for broke late on, swapping out their goalkeeper in a bid to grab an equaliser but it did not materialise.

FOOTBALL: DIVISION 2 LEAGUE CROWN AND DUBLIN FEILE TITLE

Lucan Sarsfields’ Under-14 footballers added the Division 2 title to the Dublin Feile title they claimed ealier in the year

U-14s do the double sport@gazettegroup.com

LUCA N S a r s f i e l d s ’ Under-14A footballers claimed the double last weekend when they defeated a feisty Ballinteer St John’s side to claim the Division 2 league title, to go with the Dublin Feile title they won earlier in the year.

This was a rematch of the Dublin Feile final, where Lucan had beaten Ballinteer well, but this was a different Ballinteer side, in spite of their being at the bottom of the league table. St John’s were quick out of traps and led 1-1 to 0-0 after only a few minutes

of play.

However, points from Dawson, Delmar and O’Neill kept Lucan in touch.

Ballinteer kept piling on the pressure and were six points up and coasting when Smith was pulled down in the square.

Lucan’s captain, Delmar, cooly slotted home the penalty into the bottom corner, leaving just three points between the sides close to half time, but Ballinteer got another point and went in four ahead at the break.

With the wind at their backs, Lucan were confident going into the second half that they could

Kilcock award: Local golf club get landscape crown KILCOCK Golf Club was recently

awarded the 2011 Association of Landscaping Contractors in Ireland award for best sports grounds.

This followed a substantial redevelopment, undertaken by Peter O’Brien Landscaping under the supervision of renowned course architect, Eddie Connaughton.

The course, which was designed originally 26 years ago by Eddie Hackett, was upgraded to USGA standards throughout.

turn the game around, but Ballinteer kept the pressure on all the way, and Lucan were always chasing the game.

They were still four points adrift with just a few minutes remaining, until up popped wing back Mylod who, with one of his many surging

runs into the Ballinteer half, scored a fine goal.

The game was all square with just two minutes remaining, but it was not until a few nervous wides failed to make their mark that Dawson stepped up and got free in the middle of the pitch, and headed straight for

goal to take the winning point.

Lucan Sarsfields: R Twomey, P Rigney, D Reynolds, D Flannery, E Doherty, P Crummy, A Mylod 1-2, J Delmar 1-3 (1 pen 2f), K Dawson (0-3), S Twamley for E Timmons, C O Maolmhana, D O’ Neill 0-1, D Smith, J Tuite, C Herlihy for B Hayes

17 November 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 31

in association with

HURLING: ST ENDA’S NOW SET TO MEET CROKES

CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS WELL done to the U-13 and U-14 cam-

Card Drive is every Friday in the

ogie teams, who wrapped up league

clubhouse bar at 9pm.

titles at weekend. Congratulations also to boys’ football U-14s who also won league and are now promoted to Division 1.

Set dancing from 8.30 to 10pm every Wednesday night.

Thanks to Esther Keenan, who has loaded the photos from the suc-

Tickets have now been issued to

cessful Gala Ball last weekend to

mentors for the Lucan Sarsfields

the gallery on the website, under

“Spor ts’ Persons Dream” Draw,

Events.

which is an alternative to the traditional Christmas Draw. All members are asked to suppor t this important fundraiser.

This year’s AGM is on Thursday, November 17.

Enter tainment in 12th Lock on November 19 is Comhaltas monthly session.

The Lucan Sarsfields’ GAA Club 25

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 1, 2, 3 and 19. There was no winner.

Next week’s jackpot will be €6,500.

Gerry McAndrew’s team will be in charge next weekend.

Thanks to John Ryan, Accountant, who is this week’s sponsor.

Do not forget you can alwa ys enter our Lotto online by clicking on www.lucansarsfields.ie.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN Lucan Sarsfields’ minor hurlers came close to victory against a strong Ballyboden St Enda’s at O’Toole Park

Lucan lose out in their chase for final MINOR A HURLING S/F Ballyboden St Enda’s 2-12 Lucan Sarsfields 1-11 STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

GOALS at key times saw Ballyboden St Enda’s make it into a third final at minor championship level as the hurlers followed their boys and girls’ footballers into a decider.

They held their nerve to take this tie from a cracker at O’Toole Park on Sunday morning when James Roche latched onto Alan Flood’s high ball, gambling behind the last man, to finish with admirable calmness and securing the result with the last puck of the game.

Lucan, propelled forward by Chris Crummy, threatened a late comeback, but Roche’s lastditch goal put paid to such dreams and saw Boden home.

Conditions were mild,

though a strong cross wind and the seasonal heavy sod underfoot did not militate against fast and furious hurling.

Tit-for-tat in the early phases, the sides shared four points in the opening quarter before Lucan nudged a couple in front.

But, just as they were looking like pulling clear, Boden produced an important spell to wrest back the initiative, Paul Doherty finishing off a good run with a slick clearance.

Gavin Corrigan then got the only goal of the first half with a slick piece of ball juggling, taking in a super long pass with the hurley to beat the last man and net.

With Ben McEntee clearing the bar from long range and two more points from Corrigan – Crummy responding with a trio of points – it left Boden 1-6 to 0-6 up at half-time, a

significant edge given the tight nature of the midfield battle.

The second half ebbed and f lowed as Crummy began the half with yet another pair of scores to reduce the gap to the minimum before Jamie Desmond and Conor Robinson shut down the scoring path.

Tireless work by Eoin O’Neill and the introduction of substitutions ensured Boden kept their noses in front, reestablishing their threepoint lead.

But Lucan were not done yet and, while they might have turned

to the goal option too early, spurning some chances to point with five minutes still left on the clock, they got their reward when a closerange free was saved into the path of Crummy, who booted home the rebound first time.

That made it 1-12 to 1-11 in Boden’s favour with a couple of minutes of injury time still to play, and Lucan were in the ascendancy.

But a long clearance made it all the way over the shor t-numbered defence and Roche cracked home the killer blow.

COMMISERATIONS to our Under-16

trip to the Red Cow Morans Hotel.

footballers following their league

Bus leaves Supervalu car park

final defeat to Kilmacud Crokes on

Palmerstown at 6.45pm and will

Saturday last.

return there after the ball is over.

Good luck to two of our talented

To secure a seat please book same

senior hurlers Shane Stapleton and

with the person you purchased

Aidan Glennon who were nominated

your ticket.

for a place on the Blue Stars team.

Juvenile Scór Na nÓg takes place

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

this Tuesday 15th at 7.30pm in Lucan

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 5, 7,

Sarsfield G.A.A. club house. If avail-

22 and 24. There was no winner of

able come along and support our

the €5,600 jackpot. Match any three

talented boys and girls.

number winners were Niall McDon-

There are only a few tickets avail-

agh and Simon Faughnan, and each

able for our jubilee gala ball this

receive €100. Next week’s jackpot is

Saturday and you can book same

€5,800.

by calling or texting 086 7255 586.

You can also avail of a free bus

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

WESTMANSTOWN GAELS/GARDA THE junior 1s and the ladies fin-

Rugby Club in Croke Park on Friday,

ished their playing schedule for the

November 25. Contact any com-

season last weekend with mixed

mittee member. The night is a fun-

results.

draiser for both clubs and in aid of

The ladies drew away to St Sylvester’s in the league, thus maintaining Division 2 status for next year.

The juniors also keep Division 6 status for next season, despite losing to St Maur’s at home.

Well done to everyone for their dedication and commitment during the year.

the Tania McCabe Foundation.

The Club AGM is scheduled for Tuesday, November 29, at 8pm in Westmanstown.

The club Christmas par ty and awards night will be held in Westmanstown on Saturday, December 3 at 8pm.

Good luck to Gaels’ Joe Kearney

The Junior 2s have their O’Duffy

who is representing the juvenile

Cup semi final next Sunday at West-

section in the Battle of the Thin Blue

manstown v Inisfails at 2.30pm.

line at the end of the month.

Please come out and give them your support.

There are some tickets left for the Fight Night against the Garda

Team mentors, please remind your teams to return the forms and monies collected for the recent sponsored solo.

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

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

NEW GANGTITLE: ANOTHER IN ’TOWN: Lucan Under-14 Westmanstown

footballers host Leinster do schools’ the double rugby with blitz leagueP28 win P30

MAY 26,17, 2011 NOVEMBER 2011

NO BOUNDARIES SUPER STARS: May awardon Shillington nominees World revealed Cup strikeinside P29 P29

Stokes stoked for an Ireland return

GazetteSPORT

Local hero Anthony Stokes believes that his hot streak of form for Celtic in the SPL and in Europe can be a trigger for his international return

Former Esker Celtic star believes he can be back in Euro 2012 reckoning following fine run of form in the SPL STEPHEN FINDLATER lucansport@gazettegroup.com

FORMER Esker Celtic man Anthony Stokes is hoping he can use his club form to propel himself back into Giovanni Trapattoni’s Republic of Ireland plans.

Stokes has been out of the Irish reckoning since pulling out of the panel at the end of last season due to tiredness.

Continuing his goal-scoring ratio of late will be key, when he was instrumental in Celtic’s best run to date this term in the Scottish Premier League.

First-ever European goals against Rennes brought his tally to four in four games, and Stokes is hopeful that the international break will not stunt his, and the Glasgow club’s, hot streak.

“This season we have done it in bits and pieces.

But, against Rennes, it was the first time that we did it for the whole game.

“We played really well, defended really well as a unit and played good attacking football, and it all came together.”

“I am always delighted to score, but it is more about the team. Those were my first European goals, and I was pleased to get off the mark. I want to score in every game I play in, and Europe is a good stage on which to do it. But it is more about the team and, against Rennes, everyone was outstanding.

“We have been on a bit of a roll, but we have a lot of players out with injuries, and this break for the internationals might give some of the lads the chance to get back,” he said on Monday.

“So, it could be a good thing for us at this time.

There have been international breaks every month since the season began, which can affect things at club level.

“It has also meant a lot of games and travelling for some of the squad. But it is good for the lads to

get away and play for their country, so we will take the break from club football and those who are not away will rest up.”

Their season, though, has been blighted to date by inconsistency, allowing Rangers to steal an early march in the title race. With a marquee game against Atletico Madrid on the horizon in the Europa League, though, opportunities are there to try and force his way into Ireland contention in the next couple of months and contest a forward role with the likes of Simon Cox and Jonathan Walters.

Palmerstown man Conor Clifford, meanwhile, was part of the Republic’s U-21 side who recorded a second successive win when they ousted Liechtenstein 2-0 on Monday night in the Showgrounds.

Indeed, the Chelsea man – currently on loan with Yeovil Town – almost broke the deadlock inside 12 seconds of kick-off when he was just denied by Fabian Eberle.

17 November 2011 GAZETTE 11

AWARDS Accepting their Oscar Wilde Gold Medals

W

It’s all about Belfast: For history buffs and all music lovers

Dublin students Roslyn Steer, Katie Hill, Laura Sinnott, Deasun O’Riain and Joan Redmond display their Oscar Wilde Gold Medals

Five Dubliners top the class Q STAFF REPORTER

FIVE Dublin students have each been named among the 23 winners of the Undergraduate Awards, an awards programme open to undergraduate students on the island of Ireland and, recently, the USA. They were each awarded the Oscar Wilde Gold Medal for academic excellence by the President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, at the Undergraduate Awards Ceremony held at Dublin Castle on Friday, October 28.

Trinity College Dublin graduate, Joan Redmond of Castleknock, Co Dublin, won the Historical Studies category for her essay, Religious Violence and the 1641 Rebellion:

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

They were each awarded the Oscar Wilde Gold Medal for Academic Excellence

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

Divided Communities in Seventeenth-Century Cavan.

Originally from Killiney Co. Dublin, University College Cork graduate, Roslyn Steer, won the Modern Cultural Studies category for her essay, The Influence of Music on Modernist Literature.

University College Dublin graduate, Deasun O Riain, was the winner of the Celtic Studies &

Irish category for his essay, “An Dirbheathaisneis sa Ghaeilge: Mo Bhealach Fein.

Laura Sinnott, from Swords, Co Dublin, also a Trinity College Dublin graduate, won the Languages & Linguistics category for her essay, The audio-visual juxtaposition of Günter Grass’ Die Blechtrommel.

Katie Hill, from Monkstown, Dublin, won the Nursing & Midwifery category for her essay, Paediatric Palliative Care in Ireland. Katie is currently in her final year at Trinity College Dublin.

There were 2,381 submissions to the 2011 Undergraduate Awards programme of which 23 winners were selected.

SEE TRAVEL PAGES 22-23

12 GAZETTE 17 November 2011

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

General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com

Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com

Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

DIARY

Stories from around the capital

Take care of your mind FORMER Dublin captain Paul Griffin will be at the Hilton Dublin Airport, Northern Cross, on November 22 and the Radisson Blue St Helen’s in Stillorgan on Wednesday, November 23, to promote positive mental health.

He will be discussing the role that mind management can have in enhancing performance and overcoming adversity. Paul will speak about the important role positive thinking played as he suffered setbacks in his playing career with serious injuries over the past two seasons.

With an estimated 400,000 people in Ireland experiencing depression at any one time, the Lean on Me campaign, supported by Lundbeck Ireland and Aware, was developed to encourage better understanding of the condition, encourage friends and family to provide support to those affected, and encourage them to seek treatment if necessary.

Paul will be joined by Caroline Currid, a performance coach and sports psychologist. She

Rugby star Alan Quinlan and sports psychologist Caroline Currid launch the Lean on Me campaign

will discuss some practical tools and techniques for managing a healthy mind, many of which are regularly used by professional sports people on and off the pitch.

“There are simple techniques that sports stars use which can be adopted by men and women of all ages to help them manage their thoughts and maintain a healthy, positive mind.

Alan Quinlan might look big and tough, but he has to work just as hard as everyone else to maintain a positive outlook,” she

said.

The events are free of charge but pre-registration is required.

Log on to www.leanonme.net for more information.

Beer matching at Siam Thai SIAM Thai, in Dundrum Town Centre, was the setting for an exciting evening of food, laughter and beers.

Heineken Ireland is bringing beer and food together in some

top restaurants in Dublin this November in an effort to show people the wonderful marriage that these two make.

With the global trend of beer and food matching arriving in restaurants across Ireland, beer is fast becoming a drink of choice when it comes to eating out.

Beer, with its natural ingredients of hops, barley and water is the perfect accompaniment to food, both savoury and sweet.

From banoffee pie with Paulaner to Thai Pork Curry with Birra Moretti and Affligem with crème brulee, beer and food really complement each other.

We sampled massaman curry with Sol and Sweet and Sour chicken with Zywiec. The event was hosted by a lovely lady who knew lots in the way of beer and food matching and taught all guests how to sample beer, much in the same way as wine.

Log on to thisisbeer.ie for beer and food matching opportunities at home and for details of the next beer and food matching event.

17 November 2011 GAZETTE 13

14 GAZETTE 17 November 2011

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Taking good care of your CALL 60 10 240

and won’t harm or damage even the most irritable skin.

Olive oil is rich in vitamin E, which nourishes and softens the skin and stimulates skin microcirculation.

Olive oil also promotes the elimination of toxins and protects the skin against free radicals.

Ziaja’s natural formulas have been designed to be slowly absorbed into the skin, offering long-lasting moisturising action, and can be used by the whole family and by infants from the first month onwards.

Why not try Ziaja’s Natural Olive Cream Light €5.99, an antioxidant-rich, light-weight formula combining natural olive oil and shea butter extract (a natural UV blocker) that leaves dry, tired skin feeling smooth,

Ziaja’s natural olive formulations soften and hydrate dehydrated skin

radiant and conditioned all day long. It’s beneficial for all skin types and can be used as a make-up base.

For the ultimate body moisturiser, check out

Ziaja’s Natural Olive body Butter, €7.99, which is an ultra-nourishing body butter that specifically fits the bill for treating dry winter skin.

It can be used as a

daily care product, and when it is applied generously, it will leave the skin soft, supple and delicately scented. True moisturising alchemy, it slows down skin aging

SUPPORT

LOCAL BUSINESS

SHOP LOCALLY

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ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS

IT’S pretty much inconceivable to cook without olive oil in today’s world and, for thousands of years, olives have been used in skin care because of their incredible ability to increase moisture levels and improve skin elasticity.

Just as our Mediterranean counter par ts have used olives in their cooking for centuries, so too have they in their skincare, using this luscious oil to form the basis of many of their hair and skincare beauty rituals.

Ziaja’s natural olive formulations are a gentle and effective way to soften and hydrate dehydrated skin, even in the delicate eye and lip areas. This natural-based face and body range is suitable for all skin types,

CALL THE GAZETTE ON

60 10 240

17 November 2011 GAZETTE 15

Edited by Dawn Love

skin … even when shaving due to its high vitamin E content and antioxidant action. Use on the whole body, including elbows, knees and other areas that require intensive regeneration.

The total shave

Everyone loves stocking fillers, particularly thoughtful, useful pressies.

So, if you are on the look-out for something different to finish off dad’s, or your other half’s stocking, then check out Total Shaving Solution.

This cult shaving oil is Irish and 100% natural, and will radically enhance his daily shaving experience.

With Total Shaving Solution, he can say goodbye to painful nicks, cuts, razor rash and even in-grown hairs. This one-

step shaving oil preps skin before shaving and also provides a highly protective and lubricating barrier during shaving, enabling the closest shave possible without cutting the skin, leaving skin supple, moisturised and soothed.

Total Shaving Solution combines a careful blend of natural essential oils chosen for their therapeutic and antiinflammatory properties, including sesame seed, soya bean, grape seed, clove bud, lavender and menthol.

Founded by Tom Murphy in 1994 after he was made redundant, the County Mayo native, who enjoyed a successful 20-year career in the pharmaceutical industry, decided to take the plunge and set up a new

business.

Like millions of men, Tom loathed shaving and the inevitable daily nicks, cuts and razor rashes.

He wanted to create a breakthrough shaving solution that put an end to the chores and sores of having to shave each day.

The result was Total Shaving Solution – a 100% natural and breakthrough shaving oil, which dramatically prevents dry skin, rashes, nicks, cuts and ingrown hairs.

Total Shaving Solution is priced €5.39 for 10ml and 10.99 for €25 ml and is available from pharmacies and groceries nationwide and is also available to purchase online too. Visit www. totalshave.com

Cowshed’s new ranges for mother and baby COWSHED’S Udderly Gorgeous Maternity range and Baby Cow Organics range are now available on the Irish market. Since its launch in 1998, Cowshed’s philosophy has been to create a complete range of honest, natural and therapeutic products, using the best organic and wild crafted plants.

The Udderly Gorgeous range is 100% natural and made from wild-crafted Sea Buckthorn Oil and rich in vitamins, carotenes, minerals and fatty acids, to provide your skin with all the nourishment it needs.

The Baby Cow Organics range is made from Meadowfoam Oil and is specially formulated to pamper, protect and soothe baby’s delicate skin.

The Udderly Gorgeous Maternity Range includes products such as Udderly Gorgeous Stretch-mark Oil €19.95 (a must for any mumto-be), Udderly Gorgeous Bath and Shower Gel €15.95, Udderly Gorgeous Stretch-mark Balm €23.95 and Udderly Gorgeous Cooling Leg and Foot Treatment €17.95 (this is simply great for any fluid retention you might develop during

Total Shaving Solution shaving oil is 100% natural and preps skin before shaving

pregnancy).

16 GAZETTE 17 November 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC Competition: U2 can win Achtung Baby special edition ANOTHER 20-year anniversary comes this month with the celebration of U2’s reinvention and opening of the second age of their career with the release in 1991 of Achtung Baby, and we have five copies to give away.

Simply answer the following question: What was the name of the studio in Berlin where the album was recorded?

Send your answer to competition@ gazettegroup.com, with the subject line “Achtung”, before Friday, November 25, or log on to our Facebook page at www. facebook.com/gazettenews, and like and share the U2 post on your wall.

REVIEW: FIRST WHOLE-CAREER COMPILATION FOR REM

End of the world arrives

Q ROB HEIGH

THERE comes a moment in every band’s career when it is right to let go of the reins and call time on what has been a good run.

REM announced last month that the time has come to close the book on what has been an epic, three-decade career.

Having been there for a good part of that journey, listening to the full-stop that is Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage, a 40-track compilation of the band’s greatest hits from their 15 studio albums, is a rollercoaster ride of memories of the good times, and the less-good times, spent with a band who redefined American indie

music, inspired a whole generation, and deservedly sold millions of records around the world.

The two-disc set is a fascinating ride down memory lane, as well as an insight into REM’s progression as a band.

From the Byrds-ian, Glen Campbell-esque opening run of Gardening At Night to Life And How To Live It, to the point where they hit their stride in the feedback-driven intro to Begin The Begin, through the bubblegum pop of Shiny Happy People and Man On The Moon, the record chimes and chimes again what a great band REM were in their prime.

Aguably, they were never the same after the departure of founder member, Bill Berry, in

1997, but among what were sometimes patchy, sometimes inspired, albums that came after their best, New Adventures In Hi-Fi, are some pretty incredible songs.

Their decision to quit is undeniably sad, but this collection shows their ability to turn their hands to a variety of styles, and one of the joys is reading the liner notes, as each band member recalls the times, circumstances and inspirations that led to such an impressive oevre.

Their ability to merge the influences of their Southern youth with the inflections of the great guitar bands of the late Sixties and early Seventies, and their understanding of what makes a timeless pop song will be their

REM call time on 31 years with compilation album

legacy, something other acts should aspire to.

A 40-track run through of 15 albums will inevitably miss some of their finest moments, so I heartily recommend catching up with the extended edi-

tions of the IRS releases, Out Of Time, the aforementioned Adventures, and their swansong, Collapse Into Now, which meant that REM will exit the stage on a deserved high.

17 November 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: IT’S IMPORTANT TO KEEP OUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS PROTECTED

Keeping pets safe during extreme cold IT’S winter time folks, oh yes, the frigid air is barreling towards us and we’re busily raiding the garden sheds for shovels and salt in preparation for winter; so, in the spirit of Jack Frost, let me ask you a few questions.

Do you don your winter woollies, break out the old Ugg boots and add a trendy scarf to your daily wardrobe? Yes! Ooh, then you’re probably like me and love the unique seasonal quality that comes with the fact you can layer up and no longer feel the need to wax your legs. Bliss.

However, let’s hope you also paws, (sorry) to take precautions when it comes to your pet’s seasonal requirements because it’s important

to keep our four-legged friends warm and protected during the cold snap.

Below are some of my top tips. Read them, you never know, they may come in handy.

Dog and cats • Make sure your pet has access to fresh drinking water and food.

• If walking your dog, wear warm, reflective clothing and get Fido a reflective collar and lead also.

• Watch for dogs’ and cats’ paws becoming impacted with snow – this can cause discomfort.

• Make sure your cat wears a reflective, safety collar.

• Make sure your pet sleeps indoors, especially during extreme tempera-

• Keep a close eye on pets sleeping by the fire; they could burn if they get too close.

Pet birds • Birds should be placed in a draught-free spot and well away from a heater.

• Make sure your bird has access to fresh drinking water.

Make sure your dogs paws don’t become impacted with snow

tures and raise their bedding off the ground so they don’t catch a chill from the cold, damp floor.

• Cats prefer to be snuggled up indoors and a comfortable chair or basket can make the perfect bed for your feline friend.

• Watch out for hypothermia or a body temperature that falls below nor-

mal for your pet. Cats in particular are at risk here, especially if they already suffer with poor circulation or are exposed to cold conditions. If Kitty shows signs of depression, weakness, lethargy, begins to shiver and stops responding to you, wrap her up, keep her warm and ring your vet immediately.

Outdoor pets If you have a rabbit or guinea pig it’s important you move the hutch to a sheltered area like a shed or garage. Better still, move to a downstairs loo or cloak room.

• Make sure they have plenty of warm, fresh bedding to snuggle down in and change it regularly. Do not, under any circumstances, use cut

grass as a form of bedding as moulds and fungi can build up and create a toxic atmosphere that can prove fatal for your pet.

• Rabbits and guinea pigs will naturally eat more in the winter so they have extra fat to help them stay warm; make sure you give them plenty of food, fresh vegetables and fresh water.

Make sure the water doesn’t freeze in the water bottle.

Feeding birds In sub-zero temperatures, wild birds have difficulty finding food. An extra bit of care from you will see them through the winter. Wild bird seed, peanuts and suet slabs are widely available in shops and garden centres.

Frozen Ponds If you have a pond in your garden, check it each day for ice. Toxic gases can build up in the water when it’s frozen. This may kill fish or frogs hibernating at the bottom of it.

• Dog owners must keep pets well away from ponds and lakes that have frozen over. Thin ice may break under your dog’s weight. If you must allow your dog near open water, then stay with him at all times.

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

18 GAZETTE 17 November 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs INTEREST-FREE OPTION ON OPEL PASSENGER CARS OPEL Ireland has announced a very attractive finance offer for all new Opel passenger cars.

Financed through Credit Opel and underwritten by permanent tsb Finance Ltd., Opel’s 0% Flexible Finance offer gives customers the chance to buy a car without paying one cent of interest.

Customers choose the Opel car they want, and then select their deposit range from between 30 – 50%, with the term ranging from 12–48 months.

New Opel customers will also reap the benefits of Opel’s new four-year/100,000km Full Warranty plan.

Customers can choose their new Opel Astra, Corsa, Insignia or Meriva in tax band A (in diesel and/or petrol models); with annual road tax of just €104.

The best Skoda Yeti?

The practical, yet charming, Skoda Yeti brought out the inner boy racer in CORMAC CURTIS, who got more drive than he was expecting HEN it comes to cars that are designed to carry a combination of people, luggage, cargo and/or recreational equipment – it rarely transpires that the result is something that is a heap of fun to drive and has a boot-load of character in the looks department!

But, I must admit, the latest 4x4 incarnation of the Skoda Yeti comes dangerously close to achieving both.

I recently had a long weekend to put the Yeti 4x4 Ambition through its paces in the not-too-extreme environment of Dublin City. But, let’s face it, most people who buy any kind of SUV will only need to test its off-road mettle when they get dangerously lost at the Ploughing Championships, or spend too long at the beach to find the tide getting perilously close

W

SPECS: SKODA YETI 4X4 AMBITION, 2.0 TDI Top speed: 201km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 8.4 secs Economy: 5.9l/100km CO2 emissions: 155g/km Annual Road Tax: €302 Price: €29,545

where they parked.

Any way, let’s talk first impressions.

The Yeti is a really attractive, but not a stunning-looking car.

In the same way the Suzuki Swift stole envious glances from MINI owners when it first hit the streets, the Yeti has its own charm. So much so, in fact, that my six-year old asked me: “Is he a happy car? ‘Cos I think he’s smiling!”

You can’t really argue with that kind of affection, can you?

The model I tested was the 2.0TDI 170bhp six-speed manual version – I can’t tell you if the car was happy or not, but I certainly was.

This car has a throaty exhaust note that just begs your inner boy racer to come out for a joyride.

Some clever guy in some secret research laboratory somewhere in car-making land has clearly figured out a way to make modern diesel engines sound like a cross between a Porsche and a Harley-Davidson. That, coupled with the fact that the engine produces 170bhp, means you get a level of fun behind the wheel that you just don’t expect from an SUV such as this.

Moving on to more practical

matters – after all, this car has an awful lot to offer in practical terms – the cabin is a very comfortable affair indeed.

The front passengers enjoy plenty of room, with seats that are incredibly supportive, without being completely rigid.

There was enough space in the back for my two kids in their child seats, but I wouldn’t be too keen on a long journey back there myself.

Having said that, the three rear seats, using Skoda’s VARIOFlex Seating Solution, can be rearranged in an almost endless set of configurations to allow for any combination of passengers and luggage – they can even be removed completely.

Returning to the front, some might consider the dashboard in the Yeti bland, but I found it simple, uncluttered and I liked

the matt finish and brushed aluminium-style accents.

The console boasts an impressive touch-screen interface that controls everything from the Bluetooth connectivity of your mobile phone, to the impressive Columbus satellite navigation that is fitted as standard on all Yeti 4x4 vehicles from 2012.

There are some little letdowns in the Yeti. Anyone shorter than about 5’ 10” will find the visors completely useless when the sun is low in the sky - as my wife was at pains to point out.

And, if I was to really start splitting hairs, I would ask why the ‘ticking’ sound of the indicator is so quiet!

In short, this is a great car from a company that is making huge strides in build-quality, design and value. The model I drove costs €29,545.

New dealer in Dublin for Suzuki SUZUKI Ireland has announced the appointment of Paschal Kennedy Motors Ltd in Dun Laoghaire as a new Suzuki dealership.

The appointment increases the number of Suzuki dealerships in Ireland to 19.

Commenting on the appointment, Wayne Doolan, general manager of Suzuki Ireland said: “We are very happy to be associated with Paschal Kennedy Motors. They have been successfully serving customers in the Dun Laoghaire area

since 1969 and have gone from strength to strength.”

Dealer Principal, David Kennedy, is pleased about this latest development within his business. “This third-generation family business was originally established in the 1920s by my grandfather. Due to fuel shortages, the business was sold during WWII, and was bought back again in 1969. At that time, we concentrated on service and repairs before moving into the sales area,” he said.

“Business grew beyond our expectations, leading to expansion in 1995 in both our site size along with our sales and after-sales facility.”

Paschal will be stocking the complete range of Suzuki vehicles, which includes the Alto, the Splash, the Swift, the SX4 Crossover Range and the Grand Vitara.

Paschal Kennedy Motors is situated on Library Road in Dun Laoghaire – see www.kennedymotors.ie for more details.

David Kennedy and Paschal Kennedy, of Paschal Kennedy Motors, with Michael McBarron (standing) and Wayne Doolan of Suzuki Ireland

17 November 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 17 November 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY DUBLIN 15: RECENTLY UPGRADED PROPERTY FOR €290,000

Four-bedroom peace in the Glade

A mix of classic and contemporary decorations

INTERIORS: CHRISTMAS TIME IS A-COMING

Delectable decorations BELLEEK Living have designed an exclusive Christmas Collection, full of unique gift ideas.

Whether it is surprising that special someone or adding a contemporary touch to your home, the Christmas Collection holds the perfect solution.

Among their special range of decorations, they have a variety of styles, both contemporary and classic, including a Contemporary Nativity Set for €45, a Classic Three Kings Set for €45, and a selection of snowman and snowflake ornaments.

For more information, see www.belleek.ie

SHERRY Fitzgerald, Castleknock, are bringing No. 14, Castleknock G l a d e , a f o u r- b e d semi-detached home that benefits from an upgraded kitchen, bathroom and double glazed windows, to the market for the asking price of €290,000.

T he proper ty also features a 88f t-long rear garden that offers wonderful potential to extend.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with glazed ceramic floor tiles, a guest WC comprising WHB and WC with a ceramic, tiled floor.

The living room benefits from excellent proportions and a tiled fireplace with a back boiler, and it leads into the dining room, an open plan space with the living room, with access to

the kitchen, with views from a picture window overlooking the long rear garden.

The kitchen features an upgraded solid wood-fitted Shakerstyle kitchen, which is plumbed for a washing machine. The ceramic floor tiling has a feature centre piece, and there is a door to the rear garden.

The master bedroom is a double room to the front of the house and has built-in wardrobes and dressing table, which, along with the other three bedrooms, is well-sized and features built-in wardrobes.

The main bathroom was recently reappointed to comprise a wc, a bath with a shower screen and an electric shower. A wash-hand basin sits above a contemporary style storage

Number 14, Castleknock Glade, is on the market for €290,000

unit.

To t h e f r o n t , t h e driveway is bordered to one side by a neat lawn and it is fully walled.

Side access leads to the phenomenal 88-ft long rear garden laid in lawn. This garden affords obvious potential to extend subject to

planning permission.

The property is located within a five-minute walk of Castleknock Train Station. Castleknock Glade is just a short stroll from Scoil Thomas Primary School and a good selection of local shops.

Castleknock Com-

munity College, Mount Sackville girls’ school and Castleknock College boys’ school are all within close proximity of the property.

To arrange a viewing, contact Michelle Currana at Sherry FitzGerald, Ashleigh Retail Centre on 01 820 1800.

CASTLEKNOCK: FOUR-BEDROOM SEMI-DETACHED FOR €375,000

Secluded living at Brompton Lawn

SHERRY FitzGerald, Castleknock, are also bringing No. 23, Brompton Lawn, Castleknock, Dublin 15, a four-bedroom semi detatched property, to the market, with an asking price of €375,000.

This family home in exceptional condition, having clearly been well maintained by its owners.

Situated at the end of a cul-de-sac, this immaculately presented home benefits from a large back garden and ample off-street parking to the front.

The property benefits from well-proportioned accommodation which is designed with comfortable living in mind.

Number 23, Brompton Lawn, Castleknock, is on the market for €375,000

It comprises a large welcoming entrance hallway, an open-plan living/dining room, study, a bright modern open plan kitchen/breakfast room, which features Italian black granite floor tiles. The kitchen is fitted

with an excellent range of white high-gloss units, integrated oven, hob, hob, dishwasher and washing machine. Double doors from the breakfast area lead to the garden and a guest WC. Upstairs, there are four

bedrooms and a family bathroom.

The back garden measures 65ft (approx), it offers a high degree of privacy and is filled with an array of trees, bushes and flowers. There is also a large brick shed. The front

driveway provides excellent off-street parking.

Local facilities are in abundance and include a variety of shops, restaurants, pubs, schools and leisure amenities. It is ideally located within minute’s walk of Roselawn Shopping Centre, Coolmine Train Station and numerous bus routes.

Castleknock, Blanchardstown Village and Town Centre, the Phoenix Park, various golf courses and, most importantly, the M3 and M50 are all in close proximity. There is also an good choice of national and secondary schools locally.

For information, contact Carol Anne Galvin on 01 8201800.

17 November 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Susan O’Dwyer – Chief executive, Make-A-Wish Ireland

Making a difference is dream job for Susan

THE BEST BANK TO HAVE A CURRENT ACCOUNT Q – I have just opened a Bank of Ireland current account and received a 24-page booklet on fees and charges. You would nearly need a degree in Banking to understand all the terms and conditions plus, of course, time.

Where is the best bank to have a current

SUSAN joined Make-A-Wish in October 2006 as development and fundraising manager, and was appointed chief executive in 2009. Since then, she has worked tirelessly with the Foundation in Ireland, helping grant wishes to children across the country.

Make-A-Wish Ireland grants wishes to children between the ages of three and 18 years living with life-threatening medical conditions. Make-AWish receives no Government funding, so totally relies on the generosity of the general public, corporates, groups and associations.

Every wish granted is unique and extremely special to the family involved, allowing them to forget hospitals, treatments, injections and even the illness itself, ensuring that the family creates fantastic memories that will last a lifetime.

Wishes fall into four categories: I wish to have, I wish to go, I wish to meet and I wish to be, with wishes only being limited by the child’s imagination. A wish brings a smile to a child’s face and gives them something to look forward to.

Look out for all of their great Christmas gift ideas this year, which will all be helping to raise money for Make-A-Wish Ireland, from limited edition scarves at Pamela Scott and Candles from the Disney store to music downloads from some of our Celebrity Ambassadors and great MakeA-Wish Merchandise... there is something for everyone.

account and how do you minimise the exorbitant costs ? Alan - Milltown A - Welcome to the real world!

Current accounts are really loss leaders to the banks that operate them but it is a way of reeling you in so that other more profitable products and services can be offered to you.

Even though it is a loss leader, the charges can still be costly – 28c for every transaction or € 11.40 per quarter up to 90 transactions thereafter 28c per transaction.

These costs are outside other charges once overdrafts (€ 25 application fee ), referral fees (€4.44 per day) or unpaids (€ 12.70 for each item sent back) come into the reckoning.

Avoid overdrafts at all costs – they are just not worth it. As regards free banking though, Bank of Ireland DOES offer free banking if - You lodge over € 3,000 per quarter over that three-month period - You MUST make 9 debit payments from the account using Banking 365 and/or go online OR - Maintain € 3,000 in the current account at all times during the quarter AIB Bank at €4.50 per quarter, plus 20c for most other transactions bar cheque and branch transSusan O’Dwyer

actions (which cost 30c each – they would prefer you using their online facilities) while Permanent

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

A: Believe it or not, I wanted to be a Montessori teacher, and now I am the chief executive of a children’s charity

TSB require lodgements of € 3,000 plus 18 card purchases and 1 online transaction to qualify for

When you receive a letter from a wish parent expressing their thanks, you cannot help but be passionate for what we do and want to do more

Q: What was your first job?

A: My very first job was a hol-

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

A: I am lucky to work with a

iday job working behind the counter in the local delicatessen. My first full-time job was working as a secretary for a small firm of accountants

great team at Make-A-Wish and we all work together very closely on a day-to-day basis to ensure we grant as many wishes as possible

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: Too long ago to remember

Q: What sport can you play?

A: I love playing tennis, for

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: I have been working with

me it’s a complete switch-off and a fabulous way to reduce stress. Pilates is my new focus and I try not to miss a class, I also enjoy walking with family, friends and my dogs

Make-A-Wish Ireland since 2006 where I started as fundraising manager and in 2009 I was appointed chief executive

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Knowing that we are making a difference to very special sick children nationwide is what keeps us motivated.

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

A: I have a few guilty pleasures: (1) curling up on the couch with a mug of tea, bar of chocolate and an oldfashioned movie such as an

Audrey Hepburn film and (2) at Christmas time sitting down for hours at a time doing a Wasjig jigsaw

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: I am an avid follower of @ MakeAWish_ie and Make A Wish Ireland on facebook; I also follow numerous other Irish charities and all of our Make-A-Wish Ambassadors to follow what they are up to

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: I am a cautious spender,

where would be good

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: I am lucky to be working in my dream job. Making a difference in the lives of sick children and their families makes my work so rewarding and is a huge motivator, especially as I am a mother myself.

If I had to choose something else as a dream job, maybe to own my own greeting card shop or run my own Montessori School

but when I shop some of my favourite haunts are Ashanti Gold in Greystones, Peter O’Brien’s collections in Arnotts, Carl Scarpa, Cinders and Dundrum Shopping Centre

Q: Any advice for budding business women out there?

A: Ensure that you have a

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: As long as there is sun-

Staying close to family and friends is imperative as you need time out to keep your focus. Keep positive, and learn to juggle.

shine and I am relaxing with my family and friends, any-

balanced lifestyle, a good support system and, where possible, someone that you can trust as a mentor.

the free banking.

Ulster Bank probably have the best deal currently and you can check for comparisons through the Financial Regulator’s web site - http://www. itsyourmoney.ie/costcomparisons/cs_tab_personal_current_account.htm Don’t forget if you have an aversion to current accounts, you can always pay your bills for free through An Post’s BillPay service – 120 different bills and payable on the drip if necessary in any of the 1,250 post offices ( e.g. pay your € 200 two-monthly ESB bill over 8 weeks at € 25 per week ) Finally, surplus funds should not be left in a current account – the interest rate is 0% ! Better in your pocket.

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

146,000* PEOPLE IN DUBLIN READ OUR PAPERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

TO ADVERTISE CALL 60 10 240

22 GAZETTE 17 November 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Belfast bliss for history buffs and all music lovers Leave the winter woes at home with a great Algarve holiday, with a range of options to choose from

A FAVOURITE spot for Irish people, the Algarve is the ideal year-round sun destination.

Concorde Travel feature packages to the idyllic resorts of Albufeira, Alvor, Carvoeiro, Lagos, Portimao/Praia da Rocha, Vale do Lobo/Quinta do Lago and Vilamoura.

Whatever your budget, Concorde Travel has a range of two-star to five-star hotel and apartment options to suit you. With flexible departure dates and holiday durations, as well as departures from Dublin, Cork and Knock to Faro, Concorde Travel now make it even easier to travel to this beautiful holiday hotspot.

The three-star Hotel Praia Sol (Vilamoura), on a bed and breakfast basis, costs from €299, whilst the four-star Vila Gale Ampalius (Vilamoura) costs from €419.

The five-star Hilton Vilamoura, As Cascatas Golf Resort and Spa (Vilamoura) on a bed and breakfast basis, costs from €519.

Prices are per person, based on two sharing, and include flights from Dublin, transfers, sevennight’s accommodation, airport tax and baggage.

Visit www.concordetravel.ie, or telephone 01 775 9300 to find out more.

Norway’s the way to go and see what’s described as the greatest Northern Lights show in 50 years PREPARE for the most spectacular show on earth this winter with a trip to Norway to see the Northern Lights.

With NASA predicting the brightest and most active Northern Lights display for 50 years, now is the time to book this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Four nights in a three-star hotel costs €689, or €759 for four-star accommodation.

The package includes return flights from Dublin to Tromso via Oslo, four nights’ accommodation in a three- or four-star hotel on a bed and breakfast basis, and airline taxes.

Travel between Thursday, December 1 and Thursday, February 28, using the reference: H014-3396.

For further information, or to book this trip, see www.gohop.ie/3396/Cheap-Holidays/NorwayNorthern-Lights-/holiday.html.

MICHAEL HANNAN

AS A regular visitor to Belfast, I thought I had seen much of what the city had to offer, but a stay there during its Music Week, with the MTV Awards in town, gave me a completely new perspective.

After checking in at the luxurious Europa Hotel, and lunch at the nearby Made in Belfast restaurant, our group gathered at the famous Ulster Hall in Bedford Street to begin the Oh Yeah music tour.

The tour is run by the Oh Yeah Music Centre, which was set up in 2005 to help promote talented musicians and rock bands from Northern Ireland.

The Ulster Hall is where, in 1971, Led Zeppelin gave Stairway to Heaven its world premiere.

Our tour took us past the street where Ruby Murray lived. While most people, sadly, only think of her name as the cockney rhyming slang for curry, the 1950s’ singer was the only entertainer to have five singles in British Top20 charts simultaneously.

We went past the Maritime Hotel where, in 1964, a 19-year-old Van Morrison and his band, Them, brought the house down with their classic, Gloria.

We saw his humble origins as we drove past 125 Hynford Street, where he grew up.

A trip past the famous Limelight Bar was next, where, in 1994, Oasis played a gig and, when told their Definitely Maybe album had reached No 1, famously threw off their guitars and, in the guide’s words, “got a wee bit drunk”.

After a visit to the Oh Yeah Music Centre itself, we quenched our thirst at the elegant Duke of York pub, where Gerry Adams previously worked as a

perfection.

Back at the Ulster Hall later that evening for the Benefit Gig for the Alzheimer’s Society, we were treated to more than three hours of timeless punk and rock classics by Divine Comedy, Ash and The Undertones.

Two highlights were the double rendition of The Undertones’ classic, Teenage Kicks, which the late DJ, John Peel, famously played twice in succes-

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The Titanic Walking Tour guide was witty, engaging and full of ‘useless’ information [about the ship and its building] that a history anorak like myself thrives on --------------------------------------------------------

barman, and stopped to admire the mural in an alleyway across the road depicting many famous Northern Irish personalities.

T he mural was a cross-community effort, between Danny Devenny, an ex- member of the IRA and Maze prisoner, and Mark Ervine, son of the late Progressive Unionist Party leader, David Ervine.

Dinner at The Bar and Grill at James Street South proved to be a great choice, with both the seafood and steaks ordered by our group cooked to

sion on BBC Radio 1.

As if to mirror this, at the end of the concert, all three bands came onstage again to perform the song together. The sight of men in their 50s pogoing wildly to this punk anthem was as memorable as it was humorous.

No trip to Belfast can be complete without taking part in the Titanic Walking Tour.

This takes in the famous Thompson dry-dock and pump house, as well as the berth where the ship had its final fit-out before being launched.

The tour guide was witty,

engaging and full of “useless” information that a history anorak like myself thrives on. For example, the docking berth where the ship would be brought in for repairs would have contained 21 million gallons of water (85 million litres).

This took about 100 minutes to pump out, or the equivalent of two Olympic-sized swimming pools every 60 seconds.

Not bad, for 1912!

After a browse around the St George’s Markets, lunch in the Galley at Belfast Barge was excellent, with my companions’ risotto earning particular plaudits.

A hugely entertaining alternative walking tour of the city, by Terri Hooley, the godfather of the Belfast punk scene, rounded off my trip.

Hooley is a peace campaigner, band promoter and opened the Good Vibrations record shop in 1978, launching such bands as The Undertones, Rudi, and The Outcasts.

He recounted the famous story of when The Clash came to Belfast to perform a gig at the Ulster Hall, only to be told at the last hour that it couldn’t go ahead due to concerns over the insurance costs.

The cancellation sparked a riot by punks of mixed religion waiting outside, who, disgruntled

With so much to enjoy on in Belfast recently, where

at the eleventh-hour cancellation, attempted to rip off the doors to get inside.

As Hooley puts it: “It didn’t matter if you were Protestant or Catholic, as long as you were a punk.

It was a strangely unifying experience.”

Speaking of experiences, there are plenty of great ones to be had in the Northern capital, ranging from culinary, musical, cultural and historical, and if it all seems like too much effort, there are no shortage of cosy pubs to rest awhile.

To find out more information on Northern Ireland’s tours and events, or for further information on places to stay, and things to see and do in Northern Ireland, callsave 1850 230 230; visit the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s tourist information centre in Suffolk Street, Dublin 2, or see www.discovernorthernireland.com.