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Lucan GAZET TE FREE

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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

January anu y 5, 2012

INSIDE: Busy scenes at Vero Moda opening at BABY, BABY: An essential guide for Liffey Valley SC P10 every mother-to-be See Pages 19-22

Football: Lucan Under-10s claim first cup of the year Page 32

Sports Awards: Last winners of 2011 and gala night announced Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ..................... 2 BUSINESS .................... 18 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 23 MOTORS ....................... 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Dowds rejects broken promise claims Q PAUL HOSFORD

DUBLIN Mid West Labour TD Robert Dowds has denied accusations from Opposition parties that his voting for the 2012 Budget was breaking his election promises.

The TD’s comments came after Sinn Fein’s Eoin O’Broin staged a protest outside Deputy Dowds’ office, accusing the sitting Government TDs in Dublin Mid West of “breaking their election promises”

after the introduction of last month’s budget.

In a week when many of the budget measures were implemented, Deputy Dowds was forced to defend the Government, saying: “I don’t like implementing cuts on anyone, but this is the reality of the awful situation that we have to deal with.

“We tried to address how much we, as a country, spend in the most recent budget.”

Full Story on Page 4

On the double: Tucking into a lovely bit of grub at Superquinn GRACE and Eve Grogan were a happy pair of young food fans when they met Theresa Hegerty, FMY Bombay Pantry, at Superquinn Lucan recently.

While the Grogans tucked into some delicious, fresh fare, Theresa was happy

to hand out samples from her stall’s wares, as she joined other produce providers to take part in the store’s Christmas Food Festival, which was promoting its diverse produce providers.

See Gallery on Pages 8 -9

2 LUCAN GAZETTE 5 January 2012

HEALTH Clients, carers and staff from Dublin celebrate

Phelim and Ursula Brady

Christi, Debbie and Jasmine Cummins

Sharing all the joys of Christmas HE spirit of the season was very much to be found at the Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s Failte Day Centre’s Christmas party recently when The Gazette called to help its clients, carers, staff and friends of the centre celebrate Christmas.

Operating out of the FOLD Housing with Care Complex in Hartstown, Clonsilla, the day centre has up to 17 clients attending its service daily, with staff striving to offer the best support, assistance and care to its clients with dementia and their carers.

To enquire about referring a loved one to Failte Day Centre, you can phone the manager at 01 640 9302, or 086 043 8238, or call into the centre, which endeavours to support both clients with dementia and their carers.

Failte day centre manager, Mary Bardin, paid tribute to the care, administrative and transport staff who, along with the centre’s clients and

T

Joan and Karen Nolan

John Toal and Oxana Khilmski. Pictures: Paddy Barrett

Kate and John Ivers

5 January 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 3

at the Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s Failte day centre

Eddie and Donal O’Mahoney

Frank Jacob

carers, did so much for the centre in 2011

Thomas Golden and Tim and Mary Canavan

Teresa Caffrey

Ann, Annmarie and Fiona Barnes

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4 LUCAN GAZETTE 5 January 2012

TRAINING: COMMUNITY SCHEMES

Hirsutes you, girls: Solidarity for male teachers’ efforts

Concern eased on futures of CEs Q PAUL HOSFORD

WHILE Lucan Communi-

lucan@gazettegroup.com

CONCERNS that community employ ment schemes (CE) in Lucan and Clondalkin could be closed down due to funding problems have been quashed this week by the Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton.

After raising the issue in the Dail, prior to the Christmas break, Dublin Mid West Labour TD Robert Dowds said Minister Burton had confirmed that no community employment scheme would cease to operate, subject to a review of their effectiveness within the community.

Having held several meetings with community groups, which are heavily dependent on CE schemes, Deputy Dowds received clarification from Minister Burton that no CE scheme will have their core funding cut in January, something which, he said, has come as a relief to those involved in the community projects.

Social fabric Deputy Dowds said the CE schemes made certain projects possible, and their removal would damage the “social fabric” of the community.

He said: “As I said in the Dail, CE schemes are an invaluable part of the social fabric of our communities. Many community projects, such as creches and youth clubs, simply could not function without CE. “The measures announced in the Budget were a serious cause for concern. Along with several Labour TDs, I asked for clarification from Minister Burton about the measures, and I received it in the days following the Budget.

“It is very important for communities that these groups continue to provide their services to families within our locality,” said Deputy Dowds.

ty College’s male teachers participating in the “Movember” fundraising and awareness initiative turned plenty of heads with their hirsute locks, they weren’t the only people at school sporting unconventionl looks.

Lots of girls were spotted around the school sporting unlikely beards and moustaches, whether physically attached to their faces or simply painted and drawn on, and all as a fun gesture of solidarity and respect for their teachers’ efforts in the annual and international cancer event.

The male teachers were happy to help, and many were happy to return to their usual selves – as were the girls, though some may, perhaps, have regretted drawing on their lasting locks ...

POLITICS: SINN FEIN HOLD PROTEST OUTSIDE FG, LAB OFFICES IN CLONDALKIN

Broken promises from Govt parties, says O’Broin Q PAUL HOSFORD

lucan@gazettegroup.com

GOVERNMENT TDs in Dublin Mid West have been accused of “breaking their election promises” and introducing a “Fianna Fail-style Budget” by local Sinn Fein representative Eoin O’Broin.

O’Broin was one of several Sinn Fein supporters and representatives who staged a protest outside the constituency offices of Fine Gael TD, Minister Frances Fitzgerald, and Labour TD, Robert Dowds, recently.

The protest saw 20 Sinn Fein supporters taking part outside the Clondalkin village offices of the two Government TDs for an hour.

Deputy Robert Dowds defended the budget cuts

Speaking to The Gazette, O’Broin said: “Last February, during the General Election, Fine Gael and Labour promised change.

“They said they would invest in jobs, improve public services and protect the most vulnerable.

Ten months later, they have broken these promises,” he said.

Howe ve r, D e p u t y

Dowds said that implementing cuts was the reality of Ireland’s situation.

“First off, I don’t like implementing cuts on anyone, but this is the reality of the situation that we have to deal with.

“We tried to address how much we, as a country, spend in the most recent budget,” he said.

“Secondly – and this

is a point I made to Eoin O’Broin while he was outside my office – Sinn Fein should be careful about where they point their fingers, given that they have been implementing cuts in the north of Ireland,” said Deputy Dowds.

But O’Broin said the Government “introduced a budget that will result in the loss of up to 20,000 jobs”.

“They are cutting vital funding from education, health and community services. They are cutting social welfare payments from older people, lone parents, carers and people with disabilities, and they are imposing stealth charges and tax hikes that will cost the average family up to €1,000 per year,” he said.

The Sinn Fein representative said that the budget delivered more of the same for the people of Dublin Mid-West.

“Fine Gael and Labour have broken their election promises. They have introduced a Fianna Failstyle budget that protects the super rich, while punishing those on low and middle incomes.

“Dublin Mid West has four Government TDs. They are all supporting a budget that cuts funding to disadvantaged schools; cuts funding to disability and mental health services; cuts funding from our health system; cuts funding from community employment schemes; cuts funding from the social housing budget; increases col-

lege fees; increases VAT; and hits families with the household charge and increased motor tax.

“At the same time, the Government is giving €3.1 billion a year of taxpayers’ money to Anglo Irish Bank; giving Government advisors pay rises of €35,000; losing literally billions of euro every year in tax breaks for the super rich, and maintaining pensions for former ministers despite the fact that these individuals haven’t even reached pensionable age,” said O’Broin. “[The Clondalkin] protests were organised to expose the litany of broken promises by Fine Gael, Labour and their four Dublin Mid West TDs,” he said.

5 January 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 5

6 LUCAN GAZETTE 5 January 2012

CLOTHES: STYLE ADVICE

CHARITY Politicians come together to record song

New personal shopping guru at Liffey Valley STYLISH Lucan Lady, Siobhan McHugh, is to provide a new personal shopping service in Liffey Valley.

Siobhan, who runs Styleuhoria.com, says the aim of the new service is to take the hassle out of shopping and to show clients how to shop for their shape.

“We are real people who deserve to feel beautiful all of the time, not just when we are done up for a night out – our style should be accessible on a daily basis and suit our

lifestyle, personality and budget,” says the style guru.

To get style advice from Siobhan, book your personal style experience today at the Liffey Valley customer service desk or call 086-3396419.

The personal shopping experience is based on a 60-minute appointment that will include a style consulation – the cost of the service is €50.

For more information, visit www.styleuphoria. com or call Siobhan on 086 3396419.

Derek Keating TD and recruits rehearsing their song for charity, Bridge over Troubled Water

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No Christmas No. 1 – but still a huge hit THEY may not have made their goal of Christmas number one, but TD Derek Keating and his band of singing Oireachtas members have said they were happy to raise more awareness of the services provided by Ireland’s first suicide prevention charity, Pieta House, with their recording of the classic hit, Bridge over Troubled Water.

“The aim of putting this CD together was to highlight the work of Pieta House and the growing problem of death by suicide and self-harm. When the TDs and Senators came together to record this song it had immediate support across the board.

“It is somewhat disappointing that the song now looks likely not to claim the top spot in the charts for Christmas but I am delighted with the awareness that our project has raised in letting people know that there is another way when feelings of despair take hold,” the Dublin Mid West TD told the Gazette.

Setback

“The fact that the CD is not available in the record stores may have been a setback, but this production represents the first time such a cross-party appeal has taken place.

“The number of people dying by suicide in

Ireland each year is on the rise. In 2010, 486 took their own lives, leaving devastated families and friends struggling to cope with the

vention and detect and treat people at risk of suicide.”

Keating went on to say that the work of Pieta House was the impor-

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

‘The aim of putting this CD together was to highlight the work of Pieta House and the growing problem of death by suicide and self-harm’ --------------------------------------------------------

impact of their loss.

“It is high time we got this epidemic under control. The Programme for Government commits to ring fencing funding for additional psychologists and counsellors to community care teams to ensure early inter-

tant issue at hand.

“Pieta House provides an invaluable service for people contemplating taking their own life or self-harming, providing a face-to-face, free of charge therapeutic service for people in the acute stages of distress.

The cost of running the service is now €1.3 million annually, of which just €240,000 is covered

by HSE funding.

“I would like to pay tribute to all Oireachtas members who gave freely of their time and got involved in the recording of this CD. “The issues of suicide and self-harm are too important to go unchecked. As a director of Pieta House I will be continuing to look for ways to raise awareness of the good work carried out by the organisation and to highlight the options available to people who simply feel they cannot go on,” he said.

Association helps spread holiday cheer at nursing homes SIX members of Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, visited Lucan Lodge Nursing Home and Griffeen Valley Nursing Home before Christmas, looking to spread some holiday cheer.

“The main purpose of these visits was to share time with the elderly people in order to bring them happiness and to reduce their loneliness at this festive time

of the year. Chocolates, biscuits, mince pies, etc, along with bouquets of flowers were distributed among the 100 residents in both the nursing homes,” said Imran Ahmed, of the Association, who said that the teachings of the religion were linked closely to the spirit of the visit.

“Islam teaches us to look after the old, needy and vulnerable in

the society and we felt it is our duty to visit these nursing homes as part of the wider community in which we live.

“This is the third year that we visited both the nursing homes in Lucan and always were delighted by the response of the residents as it was very nice and special to spend time with them, talking about their past, their children

and grand children, their past work and the happy memories they had. We intend to continue our visits in the year’s ahead,” said Imran.

The group paid tribute to the nursing staff at the Lucan Lodge Nursing Home, and Helen Morris and her nursing staff at Griffeen Valley Nursing Home, for their help in organising these visits.

5 January 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 7

8 LUCAN GAZETTE 5 January 2012

RETAIL A delicious Christmas Food Festival tempts shoppers

Some of the members of the Scoil Mhuire Choir, from

Lucanians Emer and James Kenny were delighted to tuck into Jane O’Brien’s fare at the Loison stall

Tempted to try some fine fare S PART of its commitment to engaging with customers, and highlighting the pedigree of its stock at its nationwide outlets, Superquinn recently hosted a Christmas Food Festival at its Lucan outlet.

Just one of a number of tempting food outlets to be held by the retail giant across the year, the mouth-watering event proved hard to resist

A

Janet Devin, Flanagan’s Boudoir Biscuits

for shoppers, as attractive stalls and friendly representatives from a wide range of produce suppliers had good chats with customers and, of course, had plenty of expertly presented fine fare for all to try. The Christmas Food Festival was a deliciously imaginative way to showcase the outlet’s diverse range of produce.

Orla O’Sullivan, Dr Oetker

Kamil Strozyk, WonderFoods

Erika Rus, The Green

Orchard, with

Bride Fox

Emily and Amy Rothwell sample some fine fare, thanks

5 January 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 9

at Superquinn Lucan, courtesy of its produce providers

Julie O’Connor, of Dunn’s of Dublin, with customers, Etain and Seamas O’Siochain

Woodview,

who were greeting shoppers and passersby at the busy outlet as part of the Christmas seasonal cheer

Declan Norris and Marie Murphy, Liffey Sound FM

Balloons and decorations added to the day’s fun

Natalie Love and Samantha Johnson, to Gabriel, Sam’s Cookies

Scotts Bakery

Adan Carroll, Donnolly Fruit and Veg

Paul Lawless, Foods of Athenry

10 LUCAN GAZETTE 5 January 2012

RETAIL

Liffey Valley SC welcomes new Vero Moda outlet

Looking stylish at the outlet

The smartly-dressed staff gave everyone a warm welcome at the opening, where they also dispensed expert fashion advice to all

Great fashion is a snip at a new outlet ASHIONISTAS were out in force at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre for the official opening of the new Vero Moda outlet.

The bright, stylish premises was thronged with shoppers, who would have made their way to the renowned fashion outlet even without the tempt-

F

ing, celebratory discount offers to welcome West Dublin fashion fans to the store.

With the help of the friendly staff, picking up some great new looks for the New Year was a snip for everyone, as the popular new outlet proved a perfect way to stitch up some great

The stylish exterior of the busy Vero Moda store

looks to welcome in 2012.

With such a well-established brand to add to the bustling shopping centre’s range of fashion retailers, Vero Moda was given a warm welcome by both the shoppers, and by the entire business community at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre.

The store was busy, with shoppers eager to examine the range of merchandise, and with some great official opening special discounts making a visit too good to turn down

5 January 2012 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 5 January 2012

5 January 2012 GAZETTE 13

14 GAZETTE 5 January 2012

SHOPPING

No VAT increase at Harvey Norman RETAILER Harvey Norman will not be passing along the VAT increase to its customers in January 2012. However, the company will reconsider changes from February onwards.

“Consumer confidence is very low, and the last thing our customers need or want is price rises.

Affordability is already a major issue for most households, and that is why we have decided not to pass on any increase in prices,” said John Hollings, general manager for the company’s electrical division.

According to Blaine Callard, CEO of Harvey Norman Ireland: “The Government needs to do more to restore health to the ailing retail sector, including concrete steps to reduce distorted boom time rents. The issue of rents will not go away.”

FESTIVE FUN Radio Nova kick it at Cafe en Seine

Michael Sayers with Carol and Olivia

Olivia Hogan, Kevin Branigan and Carol Doyle

Gordon Sheridan, Pat McManus and Paul Falloon

Aiste and Arune Keturakyte

Rockin’ around the Christmas party season!

HERE was no shortage of festive cheer when the staff of Radio Nova let their hair down at their recent Christmas party at Dublin’s Cafe en Seine.

After a successful year of entertaining Dublin’s rock fans, it was only right and proper that they were treated to some festive cheer to celebrate their continuing success.

T Melissa Mardelli, Ciara Baker and

Seamus McGiff, Danielle Hand and Jason

Niamh McDonald

Fitzsimons

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5 January 2012 GAZETTE 15

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC REVIEW OF THE YEAR: 2011 IN RETROSPECT PROVES EPIC

12 months that show music is still kicking Q ROB HEIGH

AS John Lennon once said, another year over, a new one just begun. But I don’t think even one of the pioneers of rock n’roll could have predicted by 2012 his fans would be downloading his music from cyberspace onto a computer, iPod or phone.

And this new year is bringing faster ways to do just that. 2012 is promising better smartphones and faster broadband speed. Think 3G is fast? 4G is on the way! All well and good for the download community, but I think I’ll still be giving business to the record stores. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not so much a technophobe as allergic to advances in technology. While I rely on online banking, sat navs and digital tv, I don’t think I fully belong in this Planet of the Apps in which we’re now living.

I’ll still be buying my albums on CD and vinyl, just to be able to hold them, enjoy the cover and actually know what the tracks are called and what order they’re in. Happy New Year!

2011 certainly produced some special moments, but choosing just a few to illustrate the year has proven very difficult.

There are bound to be about a hundred more permutations, but here are some of the enduring memories from the year just passed that you should catch up with, or go back and discover all over again.

Single of the year: Lana Del Rey - Video Games Say what you like about how contrived and manufactured her rise to prominence may be, Lana Del Rey blew ever yone out of the water last year with this beautiful and haunting debut single. She sounds less like the “gangster Nancy Sinatra” her press releases tout her to be and more like the natural sucessor to kinds of music that David Lynch collaborator Angelo Badalamenti was making with Julee Cruise in the Nineties.

The perfect balance of song and lyric, with a video that captured all of her fractured innocence and innate style in a four-minute clip.

The debut album drops this month, and should be a revelation.

Album of the year (1): Kate Bush - 50 Words For Snow In the absence of a serious winter like the one we endured last year, it is still comforting to be able to wrap yourself in this warm blanket of perfect sound and feeling. Blessed with two albums, one reimagined, one brand new, from the constant muse last year, 50 Words con-

FastTunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods

The records that shaped a majestic 2011

tains some of the most involving and enveloping music committed to record last year, showing all of the maturity and free-formed class of all of her best work.

Album of the year (2): Bon Iver - Bon Iver Another elemental record, Justin Vernon took everything that was special about his debut and raised his standard incredibly high. This was a journey of a record, each track representing a place, real or imagined, that the listener is transported to throughout. Like Kate’s album, it’s unclassifiable, the only label that you can put on it would possibly be: timeless.

Album of the year (3): The Horrors Skying How The Horrors got here from their debut, Strange House, I don’t entirely know, but it’s a huge addition to the range of great music released in 2011. Skying is another immersive experience, it’s dronegrooves recalling the

best of My Bloody Valentine and Spiritualised, while Faris Badwan’s vocal emerges out of the musical fog to guide you through some weird and wonderful places. Epic and brave, a brilliant album.

Gig of the year: Caribou, Newcastle The Evolution festival was a small but perfectly formed weekend away in the north of England that served up an array of treats, if you knew where to look, and that mostly meant away from the main stage. With sets from the likes of an exu-

berant and lively Katy B and a perfect serving of dubstep mania from Sub Focus and MC ID, there were major acts in small settings that were perfect for the connoisseur.

None more so than the best hour of music from math-dance rockers, Dan Snaith’s Caribou, who built an irresistible momentum from the first note, that saw the crowd go from toe-tapping interest to full-on wig-out by the roaredfor encore. A display of understated genius and subtlety.

Here’s to an equally majestic 2012!

Caribou live at the Evolution Festival

16 GAZETTE 5 January 2012

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: HELPFUL TIPS FOR FEEDING WILD ANIMALS LIVING IN YOUR GARDEN

Advice on feeding wildlife in winter THIS week I’ve had a few calls asking for advice regarding feeding wildlife during the cold weather – you know, birds and foxes, etc.

These are the type of calls I love to take because it shows there are humane, compassionate people out there who care about our Irish wildlife and worry they may not be able to survive without human help. It’s great that you have a desire to look after them…so, well done to every, single one of you.

However, (you knew there’d be a however, didn’t you), the truth is, the wild animals that live in Ireland have already adapted to our temperatures and sometimes – although well intentioned

it may be – feeding them could have a negative impact on their digestive system, health and well being.

So, with that in mind, here are a few tips that may stand you in good stead if you come across some wild animals living in your garden and feel they may need an extra food source.

or meat trimmings make tasty treats. Fat is nutritious for birds as is grated cheese, dried fruits and oatmeal (porridge).

• Leave out fresh tap water and check regularly in case it freezes.

Birds: What to feed them

• Use high energy foods like nuts (peanuts), wild bird seed and sunflower seed, etc., available and inexpensive from most supermarkets.

• Soaked bread (white or brown) – avoid dry bread; it swells in their tummies.

• Leftovers, e.g. cake,

Foxes are beautiful creatures but they are also scavengers who will eat anything

pastries, cooked rice, etc., are fine, but nothing spicy or salty, so that means no food that’s been ordered from the take-away, and no food that’s spoiled or gone off.

• Apples, cut in half and

put on a feeder table or on top of a wheelie bin are great for blackbirds and robins.

• If you’ve any suet left over from the Christmas pudding, you could hang it up or strips of bacon

• Monitor the amount of food and reduce if it’s taking more than a few days to be eaten.

• Discard any food that becomes mouldy – this can prove toxic for birds.

When feeding the birds

Foxes: What to feed them

• Wear rubber gloves.

• If using feeders, clean weekly with a household disinfectant. Rinse and dry thoroughly before restocking.

• Make sure the location of feeders is raised and away from any area where a cat, dog or fox can reach and eat from them. Their contents could prove toxic to dogs, cats and foxes; also birds are in danger of becoming a target to other animals when trying to feed.

Foxes are beautiful creatures but they are also scavengers who will eat anything and, as there are many food sources already available to them,s they are not exactly dependent on us to take care them.

However, if a fox is living near your garden it probably means he’s found a good food supply locally, and if you’re someone who leaves the wheelie bins open, well, Basil Brush has possibly

sussed it, helping himself to anything edible contained inside, but this could cause him some health issues. Therefore, if you choose to feed a fox then secure that dustbin lid and follow these simple guidelines.

Leave out dog food, cheese, boiled potatoes, and cooked meat – without salt or other additives on it – bread, cooked vegetables or fat scraps. It’s important to leave this food out at dusk when the fox is most likely to call around. However, only leave enough for one meal as leftovers that go off can cause him to become ill.

For more information, log on to www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie

5 January 2012 GAZETTE 17

18 GAZETTE 5 January 2012

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS MONEY DOCTOR COMPETITION

Supported by AIB

Interview: Berit Anderson, crisis pregnancy councillor, Here2Help, Nutgrove

10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD HAVE A PREPAID CARD DO YOU worry about bills coming through your letter box? Are you disciplined when it comes to spending?

Have you completed an annual household budget and are you able to keep to it?

Part of the mix in controlling your financial affairs is your personal credit card management. Prepaid cards - you can only spend what you lodge into them – are becoming more popular by the month, and tie in with the Money Doctor philosophy of better money management. Here are 10 reasons for that popularity.

1. Enforced discipline – by using a prepaid card, you deny yourself a credit facility that you may be tempted to use. Your flexible friend does not have to worry about the repayment of your spending – you do.

2. Greater control of your spending – because it is YOUR money, you take greater care in the spending of it, being aware of, and ensuring you receive best value at all times.

3. Manage your money hassle-free – you will know

Marian, Fiona and Berit from crisis pregnancy counselling and support service, Here2Help

precisely how much money you have and can budget accordingly.

4. Government charge is only €5 on prepaid cards (€30 on credit cards) – payable on December 31 each year... also no late payment fees, surcharges or “minimum payments” to meet every month.

5. Pay bills and shop online – avail of special discounts and reward programmes. e.g. save the €12 booking fee on all Ryanair flights.

6. Worldwide ATM access – MasterCard and Visa card universally accepted with better availability and access than debit card outlets.

7. Companion card – control your son or daughter’s personal spending even when they are abroad.

Lodgments can be made directly into companion cards. You MUST be over 18 to own a prepaid card, hence the companion card is ideal for the young teenager (age 13 to 18 ).

8. No credit application form to complete – all applicants will be accepted, guaranteed approval unless cardholder information cannot be validated.

9. Better and safer than cash – no more carrying large amounts especially when you are away. Prepaid cards are ideal for holiday spending.

10. You don’t need a bank account to have a prepaid card - with most prepaid cards, you can use

For a positive option - talk to Here2Help HERE2HELP provides crisis pregnancy counselling services to the South Dublin community.

It is one of the Positive Options agencies funded by the HSE Crisis Pregnancy Programme. The group has existed for many years, but, within the last couple of years, they have moved from Rathmines to Nutgrove, and most recently have relaunched their service with a new name, logo, and profile.

Here2Help is exactly that – here to help anyone affected by a crisis pregnancy, whether past or present, and always on their

own terms.

Their services include both face-to-face counselling and support, and a telephone helpline.

Sometimes all that is needed is one session; others may choose to come back for regular counselling over a period of time.

Speaking to someone who is completely outside of the situation can sometimes help a person gain some sense of clarity and perspective. Sometimes people go to the agency with their minds made up, and other times they may be feeling very uncertain of what to do.

Here2Help will provide counselling and support as well as any relevant practical information that the person is looking for, without expressing opinions or any kind of judgment. Their services extend to include women, men, family members and friends.

So, for anyone who has been affected by an unplanned pregnancy, they don’t have to go it alone.

Contact Here2Help through their Lo-Call Helpline 1850 67 3333 or email info@here2help.ie. Website www.Here2Help.ie. They are also very happy to receive referrals from other professionals.

Payzone, PayPoint or bank transfers to lodge to your prepaid card.

With a very simple application process, initial cost of a typical prepaid card is €9.99 and takes about 10 days for card delivery. Depending on usage, you can opt for a low monthly fee (if you envisage high usage) or pay on a per-transaction basis.

To celebrate the launch of the Money Doctor prepaid MasterCard - the first financial services advisory company in Ireland to offer such a card – there is a special offer to the first five Gazette readers who take out a card and bring their Money Doctor prepaid MasterCard with them for the consultation.

They will receive: 1. A 20-minute one-to-one Money Doctor consultation either by telephone or face-to-face for only €50 (23% discount on the normal fee of €65) 2. With the consultation, a complimentary signed copy of the #1 best seller Money Doctor Finance Annual 2012 (RRP €10.99) To apply for a Money Doctor prepaid MasterCard, go to www.moneydoctor.ie For enquiries, contact Stephanie Cahill, Administration Manager at Dublin 278 5555 or scahill@moneydoctor.ie Visit John’s website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

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

A: A cowboy

day do you ‘delegate’?

A: I’ll delegate this question to

Q: What was your first job?

A: A gardener

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

A: A computer technician, his

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: €50 Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed?

A: Kitchen assistant Q: When did you start your present job?

A: Three years ago Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: The people I work with

you, Fiona

laptop and his tools trying to connect me to the www

Q: Is there anything about yourself that you would like to set the record straight on?

A: No Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Rugby Q: What sport can you play?

A: Basketball, soccer, athletics

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

A: Yes, completing this Q&A

Q: What habits would you like to lose?

A: Chocolate eating (although I

form by the deadline

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

Q: What part of your working

cycle to make it up)

A: Supernanny and wife swap Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward?

A: A mix of both Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: Oh God, where will I start?

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: We don’t Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update?

A: Can’t remember, as it would be at least six months ago

Q: Describe your dream meal?

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

A: Have I no other choice?

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: A bookshop Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: 20, but my black boots are my favourite

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: We don’t have any Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Backpacking around the world for a year

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Gardener, if I had to choose something else

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

A: Oh God, haven’t thought that far yet

Baby BABY YOUR GUIDE TO EVERYTHING FOR YOUR BABY

DAWN LOVE

IT’S LOVED by many a celebrity mum and now Cowshed’s Udderly Gorgeous Maternity range and Baby Cow Organics range are 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.

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

Meanwhile, 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: Udderly Gorgeous Stretch-mark Oil €19.95 Udderly Gorgeous Stretch-mark Balm

Treat yourself, and your bundle of joy

€23.95 Udderly Gorgeous Bath Salts €23.95 Udderly Gorgeous Bath and Shower Gel €15.95 Udderly Gor-

geous Cooling Leg and Foot Treatment €17.95 Baby Cow Organics Range Baby Cow Frothy Hair and Body Wash €9.95

Baby Cow Milky Body Lotion €10.45 Baby Cow Rich Massage Oil €11.95 Baby Cow Buttery Bottom Balm €10.95 Baby Cow Full Body

KiddieGifts With a gorgeous selection of baby gifts available from Belleek, Aynsley and Galway, mums are spoilt for choice in gifts.

Belleek Living: 1 Precious memories frame €27.00 2 Precious memories lamp and shade €45.00 3 Precious memories money box €25.00 4 Girl name mug €27.00 5 Boy name mug €27.00

1

2

3

4

5

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Aynsley Living: 6 Cat and the fiddle photo frame €22.00 Galway Living: 7 Teddybear €14.95 8 Teddybear with gift €17.50

5 January 2012 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 5 January 2012

BabyBABY YOUR GUIDE

KidStuff A new and easy way to take temperature WHEN a child gets a temperature, his or her mood hits rock bottom.

They become tired and weak, get grouchy and don’t feel up to much. Taking their temperature by inserting a thermometer in the ear, mouth or, even worse, bottom makes everything even worse.

This is why there is now a thermometer, which can be placed like a ring on the parent’s hand.

It is called Mother’s Touch and is available exclusively at DocMorris pharmacies. The clue is in the name: by touching the child’s forehead, parents can determine whether he or she has a fever.

This new thermometer is every bit as accurate as the more invasive models: after only six to eight seconds, the Mother’s Touch will reliably show the child’s body temperature.

Taking a temperature is so easy and unobtrusive with this innovative device that young patients hardly notice it.

It is operated simply and conveniently via just one button and a large display.

An audible fever alarm gives parents additional certainty, and the previous measurement is also stored automatically so that users can see whether the child’s temperature has risen or fallen.

Mother’s Touch is a practical alternative to invasive thermometers and is not just ideal for new parents.

Teachers can also use it to quickly determine whether a child in their care has a fever. The thermometer costs €17.99.

TO EVERYTHING FOR YOUR BABY

Being mindful of baby blues at a joyous time ALTHOUGH the arrival of a new baby is usually a joyous time, it can also be a period of huge adjustment and stress as new parents are faced with major changes to their lifestyle, finances and their relationship.

Many new mothers can feel overwhelmed in the initial days after giving birth, which is normal and to be expected. However, some feelings can continue and progress resulting in post natal depression.

What to expect post-birth According to Dr Abbie Lane, consultant psychiatrist, Saint John of God Hospital, Co Dublin, it is perfectly normal for new mothers to go through a transitional period postbirth, where they feel highly emotional, weepy, stressed and vulnerable.

“About 80% of women will experience these emotions during the first few days, normally between the third and tenth day post-birth. This is the period commonly known as The Baby Blues,” Dr Lane says. “This period should subside after a number of days, but, for some, the feelings can continue and develop into post natal depression.

Post Natal Depression “Post natal depression is very common and about 15% of all mothers will experience it,” explains Dr Lane. “The most common features are feelings of anxiety, inability to cope, loss of enjoyment and motivation, tearfulness, sometimes irritation, worry about your child and a feeling of despondency and the inability to look forward to anything. Sometimes women can feel worse at

a particular time of the day – for example, first thing in the morning or in the evening time. Many women feel confused and anxious and worry that they are unable to enjoy their baby or the experience and that they are not ‘good enough’ as mother’s and this can lead to feelings of shame and worry.” Mothers may not recognise that their mood is low and that they are depressed even though post-natal depression is the commonest health problem associated with pregnancy.”

Anxiety New mothers can also feel a heightened sense of anxiety and worry about the health of her baby, often not wanting to be left alone with the baby for fear of him/ her coming to harm.

Mother’s might worry that the baby will stop breathing, or choke or that she might drop him or her. This anxiety and fear can become more intense when a husband/ partner has to go back to work and the mother is left alone all day with her baby. Sleep can be disturbed and many mothers describe tiredness and exhaustion over and above what would generally be expected with a new baby in the house These symptoms can come on immediately after giving birth or develop gradually in the weeks and months after.

Symptoms According to Dr Lane, a support network makes a huge difference and this can come from friends and family, or from community nurses or the medical team. While a lot of this is covered in ante-natal classes and there is good informa-

tion available on what to expect when pregnant, or after delivery, it helps if all mothers and partners know that post-natal depression is a common illness after giving birth so that they can be alert to the tell-tale signs: O Anxiety and seeking reas-

surance O Depression O Irritability O Tiredness and exhaustion O Fearful – not wanting to

be left alone with the baby, overly concerned about the baby’s health O Sleeplessness O Appetite Disturbance – over- or under-eating O Loss of enjoyment O Tearfulness O Feelings of guilt O Loss of memory and concentration O Loss of confidence and self esteem

Thoughts of self-harm, dying or suicide are very important and need urgent medical review.

Consultant psychiatrist at St John of God Hospital, Dr Abbie Lane

Where to get help Doctors and the general public are very aware of postpartum depression today so there is no need to suffer in silence.

Public health nurses are often a great source of support for women suffering from PND as are local GPs who may recommend counselling or a course of medication such as anti-depressants which are non-addictive.

PND support groups are also a great help to many women also. Being aware of the symptoms and identifying the depression early can both help with a speedy recovery.

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

‘Doctors and the general public are very aware of postpartum depression today, so there is no need to suffer in silence’ --------------------------------------------------------

O Accept help from friends

and family – learn to say ‘yes’ O Consider attending a support group, or becoming a member of an online support group O Exercise each day – a quick walk each day will help O Try and keep stress to a minimum O Be sure to maintain a healthy diet, especially important if breastfeeding O Try and get some time on

Tips for new mums O Talk to someone about your

your own also on a regular basis

worries – do not keep feelings bottled up inside O Try and sleep when the baby is sleeping

Advice for Partners Often a mother is unaware that she is suffering

from PND and puts her feelings down to the new change in lifestyle. Many women do not share their thoughts and feelings for fear of being seen as a “bad mother” or unable to cope.

“Support, both physically and emotional from friends and family, is so important,” says Dr Lane. “They are often the first ones to notice a change and address the problem.” Dr Lane offers partners the following advice: O Try to help out so that there

is ample opportunity for both mother and baby to catch up on much needed sleep O Try to keep up ‘couple time’ – go for a walk, get a babysitter, make use of offers from family and friends to mind the baby, do housework or cooking O Encourage attendance at GP or local community group O Be patient O Seek out information on PND to try to best understand what is going on O If you have children, explain to them what is happening

Dr Abbie Lane is a consultant psychiatrist at the Saint John of God Hospital, a leading provider of mental health services and treatments in Ireland.

See w w w.stjohnofgodhospital.ie for further information.

5 January 2012 GAZETTE 21

Let your baby’s hands do the talking BASED on a concept that originated in the US in 1986 with Dr Joseph Garcia, baby sign language has become an international phenomenon, allowing parents to communicate with their infants at a whole new level, before the little ones have even learned to talk.

Already extremely popular in the US and across Europe, baby sign language is beginning to take off in Ireland.

At the forefront of this move is SuperHands, who have just published Ireland’s first illustrated baby sign dictionary.

This bright and colourful board book introduces parents and their little ones to the first 40 signs they will need to communicate with each other. From food and

drink to fun toy and animal signs, this book will get the mums and dads of Ireland communicating with their infants before they can even talk.

Using simple gestures, babies and their parents embark on an entirely new journey of interaction with each other, and, more importantly, have fun together.

T hanks to SuperHands’ baby sign language dictionary, parents and babies can learn to sign with each other from the comfort of their own homes while using ISL, Irish Sign Language, the language of our local deaf community.

Baby sign language can reduce baby’s frustration, enhance confidence, increase parent/ child bond, accelerate speech and reduce tem-

Irish company, SuperHands, has released an illustrated sign book for parents and babies

per tantrums.

Above all, however, it’s about spending enjoyable, quality time with your baby.

Having begun in the West of Ireland in 2009, hundreds of parents and babies have taken part in SuperHands classes and learned this new method of communicating with their babies.

Miriam Devitt, founder of SuperHands, says the new book

is a welcome addition to her company.

“This is a very exciting time for infant communication in Ireland.

The feedback from my classes in Clare and Limerick has been so great that I was keen to expand as quickly as possible. Now parents all over the country can experience the joys of signing with their babies.”

Gemma, mum to Hazel,

14 months, has really enjoyed learning sign with SuperHands: “Hazel is now able to sign milk, drink, eat, apple, tired, tree, bath and nappy. Sign language has made communicating with her so much easier. She is able to tell me exactly what she needs which leads to less frustration for her and for me. Brilliant!”

22 GAZETTE 5 January 2012

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Irish Ferries have extended their New Year offer period IRISH Ferries has extended the New Year well into January with the announcement that their 10 percent early booking discount offer will apply to all fares booked before January 11.

A second offer that remains in place is the chance to secure a booking on payment of a low €100 deposit with the balance payable six weeks before departure – one that contrasts with others who seek payment in full or a more significant deposit at time of booking.

Finally, repeated again in 2012, is the offer of a free trip to Britain for a car plus two passengers for all motorist return bookings to France during June, July and August – an offer unmatched by any rival.

Throughout 2012, Irish Ferries’ cruise ferry, OscarWilde, will operate its traditional three sailings per week in each direction service between Rosslare and the French ports of Roscoff and Cherbourg.

For bookings and information visit www.irishferries.com or call 0818 300 400.

Experience the magic and mystery of the Northern Lights IF YOU are searching for a magical and unforgettable trip, then witnessing the Northern Lights, or the Aurora Borealis, as they are also known, could be just what you are looking for.

Seeing them up close and personal is a jawdropping and mystical moment you will always remember.

The best time to see this marvel is from now until March and one of the best places to spot them is Tromsø, in Norway. In order to get full value from the show you should avo i d t h e f u l l moon and places with a lot of light as they make the experience considerably paler.

Also, remember to wrap up warmly as the polar nights can be quite cool.

If you plan on setting off in search of the lights on your own then remember that the lights can be quite unpredictable so make sure you set aside an entire evening to spot them. Organised tours are also advisable if you prefer to have someone who knows what to look for with you.

This miracle of nature has often been described as a “rainbow at night”. They will often appear as three green bands across the night sky or come as flickering curtains or rolling smoke.

If you would like to experience this light show first-hand then SAS, Europe’s most punctual airline, can get you there from as little as €155 one-way, including all taxes and charges.

So don’t miss out on this unforgettable trip, book your flight today.

SAS fly from Dublin to Tromsø from as little as €155 one-way, including all taxes and charges.

To find out more about the Northern Lights, visit www.visitnorway.com.

Holidays at the stunning Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun start from €1,135pp (incl tax €1,456pp)

SPECIALS: ALL-INCLUSIVE BREAKS IN THE CARIBBEAN AND MEXICO

Heavenly deals on dreamy holidays OOKING for a great value, allinclusive holiday with your partner or family for 2012? Then look no more. Save up to 30% on a trip to one of the Secrets & Dreams resorts in the Caribbean or Mexico with these great offers from Travelmood.

Secrets & Dreams are located in Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. Offering a 5-star all-inclusive service with luxuriously elegant rooms and suites as well as endless day and evening activities that are suitable for all ages. Be sure to book early to avail of this fantastic discount.

Stay in the Dreams Tulum, Mexico from € 9 75 p p ( i n c l t a x €1,294pp).

P a c k a g e i n cl u d e s return flights from Dublin, airport taxes and

L

transfers and seven nights accommodation on an all-inclusive basis.

Located along the famed Riviera Maya, the glorious colours of the classic colonial hacienda and contemporary architecture are set against a brilliantly white beach, deeply azure sea and multihued greens of tall palms.

Travel June, 2012, seven nights. Ref No: 188352 Stay at the Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun from €1,135pp (incl tax €1,456pp) P a c k a g e i n cl u d e s return flights from Dublin, airport taxes and transfers and seven nights accommodation on an all-inclusive basis.

Combining traditional hospitality, luxury accommodation and worldclass service, guests will enjoy the highest stand-

The Secrets St James’ Montego Bay in Jamaica

ards of comfort at this adults only All-Preferred Club resort.

Travel June 2012, seven nights. Ref No: 188353 Stay at the Dreams La Romana Resort and Spa in the Dominican Republic from €579pp (incl tax €995pp) P a c k a g e i n cl u d e s return flights from Dublin, airport taxes and transfers and seven nights accommodation on an all-inclusive basis.

Time spent at Dreams

La Romana Resort & Spa on the sun-drenched southeast coast of the Dominican Republic is an unforgettable adventure for singles, couples and families.

Travel June, 2012, seven nights. Ref No: 188355 Stay at the 5-star Secrets St James’ Montego Bay in Jamaica from €1,369pp (incl tax €1,698pp) P a c k a g e i n cl u d e s return flights from Dublin, airport taxes and

transfers and seven nights accommodation on an all-inclusive basis.

Resting on a half mile of paradise, indulge yourself on the white sandy beaches overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Located just 20 minutes from the Montego Bay International Airport and a world away from life’s demands.

Travel June, 2012, seven nights. Ref No: 188359 All prices are based on two people sharing and include a discount of up to 30%.

For more information on the Secrets and Dreams offers or to book, visit www.travelmood.ie, or call their dedicated and experienced team on 01 433 1040, or visit the travelmood store in Duke Street, Dublin 2, just off Grafton Street.

5 January 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 23

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Singing Nina

WITH the New Year here, The Pavilion has lined up lots of great shows to start 2012 in style. One such show to look out for is Singing Nina, which sees Chicago jazz queen Karen Underwood and her band bring the music of Nina Simone to life on Friday, January 20. Mixing Nina’s music with her life story, music and jazz fans will be delighted with the show, which celebrates Nina’s music in wonderful style. See Singing Nina at 8pm, with tickets priced €16/€18.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340

Mary Coghlan - The House of ill repute THE Mill Theatre is another Dublin landmark starting 2012 with a great performance, courtesy of Irish singer/ songwriter, Mary Coghlan. With such a diverse body of work to choose from, as well as her new album, The House of Ill Repute, as well as her engaging and honest engagement with fans, they will be in for a treat when she takes to the stage on Saturday, January 14. Her concert will start at 8pm, with tickets priced €18.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Coolmine Panto Group

Returning with the first review(s) of the New Year, two very different political leaders – one from the past, and one from the present – are to the fore, with both Meryl Streep impressing as Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady (left), and Michelle Yeoh as Aung San Suu Kyi, in The Lady

Ladies who launch Whether launching political careers, or The Gazette’s new films for 2012, these ladies are a great start for the year Q KATE CROWLEY

READERS! I’m back! Did you miss me, over Christmas? Well, I missed you both, too!

And “too” – or two – is very much on my mind at the moment, as there are two films out now that are broadly similar, both in title and tale alike.

But first, a quick confession to lead into these reviews ...

You see, yours truly likes other women that know their mind, and are tough, resourceful, sensible and driven – I immediately think of a grand dowager aunt from when I was a slip of a girl; all furs, handbags and saucepans, and who was as resolute, immovable and tough as Everest – and I admire any woman who has such strength of character as my dear old battleax– sorry, aunt.

All this leads in to my two biopics for this review, and to the two central

FILMS OF THE WEEK: The Lady +++ (12A) 132 mins, The Iron Lady +++++ (12A) 104 mins Directors: Luc Besson; Phyllida Lloyd Starring: Michelle Yeoh, David Thewlis, Jonathan Raggett; Meryl Streep, Jim Broadbent, Richard E. Grant, Anthony Head

OUR VERDICTS: TWO very different women, and their political styles, star in two glossy biopics. They’re both great films, for very different reasons, but, as one has the benefit of a concluded political story behind it, affording it a more conclusive story to delve into, the other is weaker, given the subject’s continuing story. Still, it’s a great pair of films to open the year with, starting 2012 off in style.

characters in each tale, both of whom certainly made a mark with their inner strength.

(True, this review will be somewhat short for each one, in what some could say is an unfairly curtailed review – then again, some of my reviews are occasionally claimed to be “unfair” to begin with – particularly those concerning angsty vampires, singing chipmunks, or Clive Owen films.)

In The Lady, Michelle Yeoh steps forward as Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel Peace Prize winner, and Burmese oppo-

sition leader.

Transformed on screen into the titular populist character, Yeo brings the understated dignity to the role that’s required for Suu Kyi, bringing her extraordinary political and personal journey to the screen, while director, Besson, also focuses on her relationship with her academic English husband, Michael Aris (Thewliss), and their family life.

It’s a remarkable adaptation of Suu Kyi’s tale – which is far from finished, of course, as she continues her steadfast work in

Burma/Myanmar (from where Yeoh was deported

by Burma’s leaders, earlier this year).

However, although it’s an engrossing film, it’s somewhat ... flat, as, perhaps given the continuing dramas surrounding Suu Yyi’s life, it was difficult for Besson – as it would be for most directors – to craft the very best tale about someone whose life story is still continuing to be remarkable.

So, moving right along from The Lady to The Iron Lady, and what can one say, except Streep IS Thatcher?

Now that dear old Margaret, AKA The Iron Lady, has drifted into the haze of time (or, as my dear Crowleyetta, and many teenagers today might say: “Who?”), it’s a good time for Lloyd to bring out her brilliant biopic.

I remember only too well some of the (cough) controversial aspects of Thatcher’s iron rule over

Britain, way back when, many aspects of which are covered in this terrific film, which charts Thatcher’s rise and iron rule as leader.

But first, dear readers, a note of caution – The Iron Lady also humanises Thatcher, showing much of her personal battles, during her rise and reign.

This won’t be very popular with many in Britain, Ireland and beyond, who, many years after her reign, still fly into a rage over aspects of her rule, but, politics aside, it’s a remarkable film.

Streep, well ... what can one say ... I hope Meryl has space in her loft extension for another Oscar or two, as she’ll need them.

This film is what cinema is all about, while the role sees another bravura performance from Streep.

And there you go. That’s this broad’s broad overview of two films about, err, broads abroad. Not a bad start to 2012, folks ...

NOT to be outdone, Coolmine Panto Group bring their notable experience to bear on their Christmas pantomime, which, this year, sees the group tackle Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Famillies will love the talented group’s work, as they bring the classic tale to viviid life. The show runs until Sunday, January 15, with tickets priced €20. Fur full details of the upcoming shows, see Draiocht’s website at www.draiocht.ie.

24 LUCAN GAZETTE 5 January 2012

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs NEW HONDA CIVIC DEBUTS AT CLONSKEAGH MOTORS:

THE much anticipated 9th generation Clean Dynamic Honda Civic made its first appearance at Clonskeagh Motors last month.

Already acclaimed by the international motoring press, the new Civic builds on the successes of the previous model while addressing the criticisms, and will continue Honda’s progression towards modern premium.

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

‘The result is revolutionary evolution in the car’s styling’ ----------------------

According to Honda, the result is a revolutionary evolution in the car’s modern styling, excellent performance and advanced technologies that makes it eco-friendly and even more cost-efficient to run.

Developed over four years, nearly all components are new to the Civic.

It is available as a 5-door model and there are 11 models from which to choose between petrol and diesel; four different grades and three different engines.

Prices start from €20,995 for the i.4 SE petrol and from €23,995 for the SE diesel models.

Honda has sold over 42,000 Civics since the launch of Honda in Ireland in 1985.

The new Civic was exclusively developed for the demanding European motoring environment.

The Range Rover Evoque has been collecting awards since before its release, most recently from Britain’s 4x4 Magazine, which named it as the 4x4 of the year

53rd gong for Evoque Prizes from across the globe boost Range Rover’s honours collection, including 4x4 Magazine’s 4x4 of the Year title. CORMAC CURTIS reports.

HE Range Rover Evoque has added more awards to its portfolio, taking the total to 53 since its launch in September.

Recent honours bestowed on the Evoque came from Britain’s 4x4 Magazine, which proclaimed the Evoque its 4x4 of the Year, and this was swiftly followed by the Car of the Year title from the Czech Republic, and Best SUV from the Brazilian automotive news agency Auto Press, taking to 15 the

T

number of different countries to recognise the smallest, lightest and most efficient Range Rover ever produced.

Here in Ireland, the Range Rover Evoque was recently crowned Continental Irish Executive/Luxury Car of the Year 2012 by the Irish Motoring Writers’ Association.

Evoque’s half-century tally also includes notable titles such as Car of the Year in the UK Auto Express New Car Honours, Scottish Car of

the Year, US Motor Trend’s SUV of the Year, BBC Top Gear’s Car of the Year, Car and Driver Spain Car of the Year, the Design Trophy from l’Automobile in France and a host of honours from Chinese organisations and publications.

For Land Rover global brand director John Edwards, keeping up with the awards is proving a welcome headache: “The speed with which the honours are being collected

by the Evoque is breathtaking, as is their global nature. It is a fantastic achievement for all connected with the Evoque project and a great endorsement for the product.

“In addition to these formal titles, the Evoque is daily emerging on top in motoring magazine group tests around the globe, and is winning thousands of admiring new owners. We have now received in excess of 40,000 orders for Evoque, and what is particu-

larly heartening is that many of those have come from customers new to the brand.”

The most recent British honour comes from 4x4 Magazine, whose editor Nigel Fryatt said that there was universal agreement among the judges “that the new Evoque points the way to what future 4x4s will be like, and in some respects that alone makes it a worthy winner.” 4x4 Magazine also awarded Evoque top honours in its Premium Plus class.

William Ford nominated to the Irish America Hall of fame WILLIAM Clay Ford, Jr, executive chairman of Ford Motor Company, was recently inducted into the Irish America Hall of Fame and received a Certificate of Irish Heritage from Ireland’s Consul General in the US, Noel Kilkenny.

The ceremony took place at a gala lunch hosted by Irish America magazine at the Metropolitan Club in New York. The Irish America Hall of Fame is housed at the Dunbrody Emigration History Centre in New Ross, Co. Wexford.

As part of the ceremony, Mr Ford was presented with an Irish crystal plate marking his induction into the Hall of Fame by Sean Reidy, director of the Dunbrody Emigration History Centre.

Speaking of the Ford family’s Irish heritage, William said: “It’s something our family has been very proud of, and something we’re acutely aware of.”

William is the great grandson of Ford Motor Company founder, Henry Ford. Henry’s father William, emigrated with his family to America from Ballinascarty in Co Cork during the Famine in 1847.

They settled in Michigan and Henry was born in 1863. Henry Ford established the Ford Motor Company in 1903 and, in 1917, he returned to his ancestral home of Cork to establish Henry Ford & Son Limited.

Several of Henry Ford’s descendants have paid visits to the family

homestead in Ballinascarty in the past decades. This year, William Clay Ford Jr and his family visited Ballinascarty for the first time and unveiled a plaque commemorating the Ford family’s connection with the village.

The Ford Motor Company now employs 163,000 people and sells over five million vehicles annually across the globe. The Irish operation is the only Ford business in the world to bear the name of the company’s founder.

William joins a group of famous people who have already been inducted into the Irish America Hall of Fame including Bill Clinton, Maureen O’Hara, Jean Kennedy Smith and Michael Flatley.

William Clay Ford Jr, executive chairman of Ford Motor Company, and Sean Reidy, director of the Dunbrody Emigration History Centre

5 January 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

26 LUCAN GAZETTE 5 January 2012

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5 January 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 29

GazetteSPORT

DUB STARS SHINE: Annual season opener sees football and hurling in fine fettle: Page 31

HOCKEY: RAILWAY CLAIM FIRST TITLE IN 30 YEARS

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS DECEMBER WINNERS IN ASSOCIATION WITH

+ STARof theMONTH

BARRY MURPHY THE Swords swimmer claimed eight national titles in one weekend in December and broke two national records in the 100m butterfly and the 50m butterfly at the Irish national short course championships at Lisburn.

Railway Union celebrate Karl Chapple’s key goal in the Neville Cup final at Serpentine Avenue last week

Carroll captains Union to Neville Cup NEVILLE CUP FINAL

TEAMof theMONTH + ST BRIGID’S THE Russell Park side exceeded expectations and came within seconds of a heroic comeback in the Leinster final against Garrycastle, but were denied a deserved win by a free late on in the match.

ANOTHER year over and a new one just begun... won’t stop us from looking back at the best of sporting excellence in December, and looking forward to celebrating Dublin’s finest at our third annual awards ceremony at the Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley at the start of February - and you are all invited!

However, before we get to that, we should look at the December winners of the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards stars of the month.

Barry Murphy has been a star on the rise for several years now and his stunning successes at the national short-course championships in December further underscored his talent going into his Olympic year.

St Brigid’s senior footballers missed out on the ultimate prize when they were denied the Leinster title by Garrycastle, but their heroic passage through the Dublin and provincial competitions showed their ongoing strength and depth as a footballing force to be reckoned with.

Come to the Awards Night Join us at the biggest night in local sport on February 3 when we salute the stars of 2011.

Tickets for the awards ceremony, which is being filmed this year by Setanta Sports, are available from the Clarion Hotel. Contact Edel O’Reilly on 01 625 8006 for more information.

Railway Union DCU O sport@gazettegroup.com

3 1

FORMER Oatlands’ College pupil Kenny Carroll finally picked up a senior outdoor hockey trophy after over a decade of waiting when Railway Union claimed the Neville Cup on St Stephen’s Day. The dual hockey and cricket international captained the Park Avenue club to their first senior title in 30 years in their first final since 2000 when they annexed the Neville Cup.

Former Wesley student and Avoca club man, Karl Chapple, got the key strike as they showed a more assured touch against a student side playing in their first ever senior final of any description.

Carroll was instrumental as Railway forged a 2-0 lead through Fiachra Maher and Rob Abbott’s close-range touches.

Cork native Nick Burns made up for an earlier sin-binning by converting from the penalty spot in the third quarter to give the students hope, but they missed guile up front to get back on terms.

Egan’s honour: Lucan paddler collects prize SALMON LEAP canoeist Jenny Egan

was honoured for claiming a welldeserved silver medal in the World Cup 5,000m event in Rachice, Czech Republic, last May when she was awarded The Irish Times Sportswoman of the Month award for May. She received her award last week from Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Irish Times editor, Kevin O’ Sullivan and ISC chairman, Kieran Mulvey.

Plenty of goal openings presented themselves but the students failed to strike and were finished off by a soft effort.

A timidly-conceded long corner fell invitingly to Chapple to cross. He swept straight for goal and saw his effort bounce off goalkeeper Rob Fitzgerald for the winner.

Throughout, midfield interchanges between Fergal Keaveney and Jeremy Duncan were pulling UCD out of position, and creating plenty of ball down the channels for the forwards to gobble up.

It paved the way for

both of their early goals.

The first was neat enough, Maher ghosting in at the back post after Carroll’s slap was deflected his way at the top of the circle to snatch the lead.

The second was a beauty. Mark English – well marshalled for the most part – picked out a sublime diagonal pass from the right, half-way line to Richie Forrest, overlapping from the full-backs to the left edge of the circle.

He controlled and had time to pick out the diving stick of Abbott who got a neat touch for his 15th goal of the season.

30 LUCAN GAZETTE 5 January 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: LOCAL SET TO MANAGE LOI SIDE IN 2012

Stokes scores to keep Celtic ahead ANTHONY Stokes got back among the goals as his 12th strike of the season helped Celtic continue their immaculate ten-game winning streak.

The former Esker Celtic man scored the first goal in the hoops 3-0 success at Dunfermline in the 18th minute of his return to the starting line-up.

He took on the ball at the edge of the box and controlled well and picked a perfect trajectory with his right foot to swing the ball into the corner.

The run of results has seen Celtic recover a huge deficit to lead Rangers in the Scottish Premier League title race.

Local soccer supremo Aaron Callaghan has been appointed Bohemians manager for 2012

Callaghan’s Bohs return sport@gazettegroup.com

LUCAN resident Aaron Callaghan was last week named as Bohemians’ new boss for the 2012 League of Ireland season, and takes up the position this week.

Callaghan is famed for his strong commitment to the highest coaching standards.

He was one of the first Irish coaches to obtain the UEFA PRO

licence in 2007 and has qualifications in sports management, in injury management and fitness and in supervisory management.

Callaghan has been a coach tutor for the FAI and is a founding member of the Football Coaching Association of Ireland established in 2009 to improve coaching standards.

He brings with him plenty of experience

as both a coach and manager over the past decade with Crusaders, Athlone Town, Longford Town and UCD. Most recently, he was a first team coach with St Patrick’s Athletic.

Playing career Before becoming a coach, Aaron played as a defender for ten years in England, where he was with Stoke City, Oldham Athletic, Crewe Alexandra and Preston Nor th End. In that period, he was capped for Ireland at Under-21 level.

Back in Ireland from the late 1990s, he played with Shelbourne, Crusaders, St Patrick’s Athletic, Dundalk and Longford Town.

Callaghan’s first task will be to assemble a Bohemian squad for the new season. Some of the amateur players in last season’s squad have signed again for the club.

“We are delighted to have secured a manager in good time for the start of the new season,” said Bohemian FC president, Chris Brien.

“Aaron has strong knowledge of the League of Ireland and will bring broad experience to the job. We welcome him to the club and we are sure our supporters will wish him well.”

Bohemians’ competitive matches start on February 13, with the first round of the Setanta Spor ts Cup. T he league season opens on March 2 with an away match in Derry. Aaron takes over the manager’s mantle from Pat Fenlon who was snapped up by SPL side Hibernian in the close season.

It will be a tough task for Callaghan as the club looks to try and clear their considerable debts, with the possible sale of Dalymount Park on the table.

LOCAL TEAM WIN? WE WANT TO KNOW! Call our SPORTS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email sport@gazettegroup.com

5 January 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 31

in association with

DUBS STARS: FOOTBALL AND HURLING FESTIVAL

CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS HAPPY New Year to all our members, patrons and sponsors.

born in 2005, 2006 and 2007 resume

on winning the John Humphrey Cup

on Saturday, January 14 at 1.30pm

in fine style on December 28.

on our all-weather pitch at the 12th Deepest sympathy to the Smith

at the clubhouse bar until January

family on the de ath of Mar k’s

5, or online by going to www.sport-

father, Philip.

6.

The draw for the second and third

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 3, 4, 8 and 19. There was no winner of the

grand slam draw will take place on

€9,000 jackpot.

Siobhan Grimes, Rachel Kenny,

3-23 3-13

SHANE Stapleton’s six-point haul was not enough to help the Dubs’ Stars forge an unlikely victory when Anthony Daly’s central Dublin panel powered to a comfortable win in the day’s hurling encounter.

Stapleton proved the star for St Pat’s, Palmerstown, in their club’s promotion back to Senior A championship status in 2011, and the local star looks well set for a return to the Dublin panel after a lengthy spell out of contention after injury.

His contribution was enough to turn the tide against Dublin, who had produced a blistering closing quarter against the Stars on the day.

It was a lively tie to shake off the cobwebs before Tuesday’s first county training session

of the year and served up plenty of entertainment for those that braved the blistering wind rolling in off the Dublin mountains.

Nip and tuck for much of the first half, Danny Sutcliffe was among those to push their claims the most of the young charges hoping to serve notice of their intent.

Plunkett’s goal helped Dublin to a narrow 1-11 to 2-7 lead at the break with the Stars keeping pace – it was level five times in the first half – with majors from Conor McCormack and Liam Ryan.

R y a n O ’ D w y e r, though, was showing serious hunger from centre-for ward and piled on nine points, aided by some sharp Simon Lambert points from close in.

Stapleton led the Stars’ resistance with a half-dozen points of his own, while Ger

O’Meara’s celebrated solo goal kept them interested before being blown away in the closing quarter.

DUBS’ STARS FOOTBALL Dublin Dubs’ Stars

3-10 3-8

Q sport@gazettegroup.com

LU C A N S a r s f i e l d s ’ man Paul Casey lifted the annual Dubs’ Stars trophy after he donned the captaincy duties for Dublin in the absence of Bryan Cullen at the annual curtain-raiser for the season on the Kiltipper Road on New Year’s Day. He lined out against club-mate Stephen O’Shaughnessy, who impressed for the Dubs Stars’ selection, the cream of the performers in the 2011 Dublin SFC. But it was Kevin McManamon’s goal six minutes from time that eventually proved the game’s winner, helping

the Dubs to a narrow victory at a bitterly cold Thomas Davis.

The Jude’s man, along with Michael Dara Macauley and Player of the Year, Alan Brogan, showed particular sharpness with a trio of fine goals that saw Pat Gilroy’s selection win in a tight battle.

Macauley’s virtuoso goal from midfield provided one of the highlights as he skipped through the Dubs’ Stars defence in ty pically dynamic fashion.

It handed the Dubs an imposing early lead as Brogan’s similarly spectacular effort set the base before the season began as last year had ended, McManamon striking late on to put Dublin in winning position.

He netted six minutes before the end of the second half, with sleeting rain making for a chastening close to a wide open game.

8.30pm.

January 7, while the f irst prize

Congratulations to Niamh Berry,

Dublin Dubs’ Stars

Our club shop will re-open on Tuesday, January 10 from 7.30 to

prize packages will take place on

January 14.

DUBS’ STARS HURLING

Lock.

Dream Draw can still be purchased

spersonsdream.com until January

Dublin celebrates a Blue day at Davis

Our nurseries for boys and girls

Well done to our 2001 footballers

Tickets for our Spor tspersons

Lucan Sarsfields’ Stephen O’Shaughnessy tackles Paddy Andrews at Kiltipper Park in the Dubs Stars game

squad.

This week’s results are available on our website, www.lucansarsfields.ie.

Claire Rigney, Ailbhe Ryan, Ciara

Edel Mooney’s team will be in

Sheehan, Ali Twomey and Kate

charge nex t Sunda y, when our

Whyte on being selected for this

sponsor will be Carey’s Newsa-

y e a r ’s D u b l i n m i n o r c a m o g i e

gents.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN ONCE again it was the Golden Old-

raibh a hAnam.

ies who captured the Paul Hegarty

Lotto: Numbers drawn on Friday,

memorial trophy on Tuesday last

December 23 were 4, 16, 17 and 18.

when they ran out easy winners

There was no winner of the €6,800

against the Pretenders.

jackpot.

Our sincere thanks to all who gave

€100 each to Eamon Harrington

generously to the Cancer Research

and Sheila Joy for any three num-

collection on the day. Our thanks

bers.

also to Joan and her kitchen staff for the light refreshments.

Our sincere sympathy to senior

Numbers drawn on Sunday, January 1, were 1, 2, 13 and 22. There was no winner of the €7,000 jackpot.

hurling coach Pat Mullins and the

Match any three numbers win-

Mullins family on the sad death of

ner was Ed and Sophie Conway who

their father Paddy also our sincere

receive €200. Next week’s jackpot

sympathy to John Mullins brother

is €7,200.

of Paddy and club chairman Ronan Mullins (nephew). ar dheis Dé go

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

ROUND TOWERS WE WISH all our members, sponsors

and players of the senior football

and friends a happy new year.

team and all members, friends and

Membership is now due. Renewal forms are available on the club website or in reception in the clubrooms.

family who helped out with the fundraiser in Liffey Valley last Friday.

Round Tower Spor ts Predictor 2012 will be available in the clu-

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 9,

brooms from Frida y, December

11, 16 and 21. Bonus Ball 26. There

23 onwards. For full information,

was no winner of last week’s jack-

please contact Cathal Wall on 087

pot of €5,400. Congratulations to

261 8390 or Ed O’Malley on 087 807

Paul Sheridan, Eoghan Hutchinson

3391.

and Kieran Cronin, who were the

White Collar Boxing 2012 will take

three €100 winners. Match Three

place in the Red Cow on March 2,

and Bonus Ball: No winner. The next

anyone interested in taking part

draw is on January 9, when the

should contact Mark, Niall, Damian

jackpot will be €5,400.

or Matt who organised last year’s

Many thanks to the management

event.

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

ALL OF YOUR LUCAN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 29-31

BOHS CALLING: Callaghan lands top job at Dalymount Park for 2012 season P30

JANUARY 5, 2012

SUPER STARS OF 2011 December winners are announced P29

Lucan crowned in Humphrey Cup

GazetteSPORT

The impressive Lucan Sarsfields’ Under-10s who claimed the John Humphrey’s Memorial Cup at the Iveagh Grounds

Annual memorial contest sees Under-10s claim title for fourth time in competition’s 13-year history lucansport@gazettegroup.com

TERRIFIC teamwork, dogged determination and a dazzling display of skills saw Lucan Sarsfields’ U-10s claim the John Humphrey Memorial Cup in the Iveagh Grounds just before the turn of the year.

A bitter wind may have been blowing across the Iveagh Grounds, but it was a red-hot Lucan side who warmed the hearts of their supporters with a dazzling display of skill.

Played on December 27 and December 28, the competition is held in memory of John Humphrey, a St James Gaels’ player, who died tragically in an accident in 1998. This was the 13th year of the competition and, as always, the spirit in which the competition was played, and the high standard of football, was a fitting memorial.

In getting the better of defending champions, Whitehall Colmcilles, Lucan annexed the title

for a record-equalling fourth time, having made it through a group phase along with Templeogue Synge Street, as well as Whitehall and St Vincent’s, ahead of teams from Castleknock, St Anne’s, Cuala, Thomas Davis and hosts, St James’ Gaels.

It left Lucan with a final four date with Templeogue on the second day of competition, and they looked up to the challenge right from the start.

A strong defensive effort, and excellent short interplay by the forwards, ensured that they took a 10-point lead into the second half. The final 15 minutes gave this team an opportunity to display their excellent teamwork, and they ran out comfortable winners in the end, 5-13 to 0-3, with Ciaran Behan (1-5), Colm Walsh (1-3) and Henry Keogh’s 1-1 among the scores.

The final looked an imposing prospect against the reigning champions, who had beaten St Vincent’s — a side Lucan drew with in the pool stage — on a 1-5 to 2-0 score.

Lucan, however, raced out of the blocks. The diminutive Charlie Keher smashed a blistering shot to the net midway through the first half to give the Lucan lads a lead of 1-3 to no score just before the break.

Whitehall had no intentions of letting go of the trophy, however, and a goal on the stroke of halftime promised a tense second half. In the second half, however, Lucan were breathtaking and ran out winners on a score line of 3–11 to 1–1.

Speaking at the presentation of the trophy, Billy Hannigan, of the host club St James Gaels, paid tribute to all of the players and their mentors who had made the event such a success.

While Ciaran Behan of Lucan was selected as the Player of the Tournament he had some hot competition for the award from his team-mate Keher, Conor Brennan of St James Gaels and the Whitehall pair of Fearghal Sweeney and Adam McDermott.