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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER
INSIDE: All you need for your child’s special day P20-21
Snooker: Lucan potter gets ready for PTC showdown Page 32
Hurling: McCaffrey keeps captain’s armband Page 30
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 TRAVEL................... 22-23 BUSINESS .................... 16 MOTORS ........................18 GOING OUT ............ 24-25 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26
February 23, 2012
ROAD VICTORY: Locals celebrate as N81 route is published: See Page 4
Local school could lose 8 staff I PAUL HOSFORD
A LUCAN school faces the loss of up to eight teachers, following an announcement by the Government on “legacy post” staffing. The Archbishop Ryan Junior National School received the bad news on Tuesday that up to eight teachers could be lost in the review of posts. The school is a non-DEIS designated school, meaning
that it stands to lose twice as many teachers as any other school in the country. The senior section of the school, however, was spared and will not lose any teachers. Fine Gael Deputy Derek Keating has said that an appeal will be considered by the Minister but must be made before March 23. “I am shocked at this news but I am also confident that it will be reversed.”
Brian cares: Former Ireland boss helps out Nagarhope FACHTNA “Doc” Clandillon was joined by former Ireland football manager Brian Kerr for the Nagarhope Challenge GAA game last week. The game brought together sports stars, politicians and locals to raise
funds for some of the world’s poorest children in Nepal. Kerr took time out of his schedule to take charge of one of the teams. See Gallery on Pages 8
2 LUCAN GAZETTE 23 January 2012
SDCC: TWO WAITING LIST PROJECTS READY TO GO
SDCC ready to roll-out two housing schemes I PAUL HOSFORD lucan@gazettegroup.com
SOUTH Dublin County Council (SDCC) will operate two new housing schemes for residents on the waiting list for houses. Tallaght councillor Chris Bond (Lab) asked the council this week to outline any schemes that would be coming onstream, this year. In response, council management said that two new schemes would be made available for those affected. The first scheme involves the infill of units at Taylor’s Lane, in Rathfarnham, which consists of nine units (seven three-bedroom and two four-bedroom, 2.5-storey houses). SDCC says that “work commenced in July, 2011, and the anticipated duration of the contract is 50 working weeks. This is funded through the Social Housing Investment Programme.” In Clondalkin, a sheltered housing scheme, in association with Clanmil
Housing Association, in liaison with Cheshire Homes, will take place at Valhalla, consisting of 10 housing units (five onebed ground-floor units; four one-bed first-floor units, and one two-bed duplex on first and second floor), as well as one office/staff unit. The council says that “work commenced in October, 2011, and the anticipated duration of the contract is 65 working weeks. This is funded through the Towards Carbon Neutral and Capital Assistance Scheme.” SDCC also said that it has asked the Department of the Environment, Community & Local Government to provide capital allocation, under the Social Housing Investment Programme, for further infill housing schemes at a number of locations to address particular issues of anti-social behaviour or special needs housing requirements, but that “no approval to proceed has, to date, been forthcoming, due to restrictions in capital funding availability”.
Jed oudda here! Oh, NOVA mind, I’m just joking RADIO NOVA programmes director, Jeff O’Brien, was quick to react when the distinctive shadows of Lucan’s most famous twins darkened Radio Nova’s doors, recently. Quick as a flash, Jeff was on his feet, telling the quifftastic crooners to Jed out – before reassuring them that,
NOVA mind, he was only joking, before proceeding to take the Grimes boys on a tour of the station. The pop pair were happy to tour the station, as they continued their occasional habit of calling in on some of the radio stations that have given them great support – even if Jeff’s joking around was an unusual, but amusing, welcome.
COMMUNITY: CLLR LAVELLE WELCOMES COUNCIL’S MOVE
SDCC to take in charge several local estates I PAUL HOSFORD lucan@gazettegroup.com
HUNDREDS of homes in Lucan will receive a boost in the coming weeks, when their estates are taken in charge by South Dublin County Council (SDCC). Some of the estates in question have been waiting more than a decade to have essential services such as drainage, grasscutting and maintenance
taken over by council staff – a move that is set to happen within the next month. The estates, in Adamstown Castle and Avenue, Griffeen Glen Courtyard and Boulevard and Tully Hall, have had repeated problems with the provision of these services in the past, says local Fine Gael councillor, William Lavelle. He said: “In a number of cases, the residents
in these estates would simply borrow a rideon lawnmower from a local school, pay for the diesel, and do the jobs themselves. They would be tired of waiting for the developers to do it. “I have had many cases where I had to intervene on behalf of residents in cases where they were fighting with the developer,” said Cllr Lavelle. He said that the Adamstown moves come as
particularly welcome, because it would ensure a greater level of inclusion for the estates. “ T h e A d a m s t ow n estates’ taking-in-charge is a big one, because it means a mainstreaming of Adamstown into the Lucan area. “The council deserve a lot of credit for these developments, because they have prioritised a lot of works. “There is drainage
works, grass-cutting and general maintenance work to be done,” said Cllr Lavelle. He said that the timing of the plans, to be formally confirmed at next week’s Lucan Area Committee meeting, is perfect for residents. “Coming into the spring and summer, when demand for the services is higher, the timing of this couldn’t be better,” he said.
23 February 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 3
SDCC Council hails online community initiative
Hundreds log on to report area issues I PAUL HOSFORD lucan@gazettegroup.com
ALMOST 400 people have submitted requests through the Fix Your Street (FYS) initiative in 2012 alone, new figures have shown. Responding to a question from Clondalkin Labour councillor Breeda Bonner, the council said that the initiative has been a huge success. Fixyourstreet is a publicly-accessible website with associated mobile technologies on which non-emergency issues, such as street lighting, drainage, graffiti, illegal dumping, road and footpath maintenance, can
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be reported. The pilot has run for a period of three months in South Dublin County Council, whereby technologies developed by the council have been tested in a live, working local Government environment. In response to Cllr Bonner, South Dublin County Council (SDCC) said that the initiative has been warmly received. “Fixyourstreet (FYS) has been strongly supported by the public since the site went live in August, 2011; 396 reports on issues in the SDCC area were received through FYS since January 1, 2012.
“Customers report on non-emergency issues, including graffiti, litter and illegal dumping, tree and grass maintenance, leaks and drainage, street lighting and road and path defects. “At January 30, 2012, there were 2,108 reports recorded in total, and 3,554 responses issued on the site by council staff,” said the SDCC response, which went on to say that they aimed to get back to submissions within two days, despite Cllr Bonner pointing out that some residents had told her they had not got a response. In reply, the council said: “We have a commitment to respond to reports
A screenshot showing the front end of the Fixyourstreet website
from residents within two days of their submission. This response informs residents of the action being taken. “In a large number of cases, this action is carried out within a short timeframe. “In cases where the work must be integrated into a works programme, and the timeframe for resolution is longer, the customer is informed in
our response. “We are not aware of any feedback regarding difficulty using the site, but any such problems will be resolved for users if they contact info@sdublincoco.ie or telephone a customer care representative at 01 414 9000. “Fixyourstreet continues to operate in the South Dublin county area; other local authorities countrywide have
been in touch regarding training and information on the initiative. “Arrangements are being made for Dublin City Council to commence using the site, and they expect to go live, shortly. “A smartphone application to facilitate easy upload of photographs to the site will be available shortly,” said the council.
THERAPY Helping the young to cope A NEW play therapy group in Lucan is helping young people with difficulties to cope. Child Focus Therapy is based in Lucan, but covers the surrounding areas, and is offering Play Therapy for children experiencing difficulties. Play therapy has been successfully used for emotional, social, developmental delays and trauma. Such issues range from bereavement, abuse, bullying, anger and relationship work, autism to OCD, ADHD and other childhood pathology. Child focus therapy has two therapists on site, Yvonne Power, who can be reached on 086 106 4540, or Yvonne O’Neill, at 087 412 4600. Child Focus Therapy operates from Rosse Court Resource Centre on Wednesday evenings, and Lucan Youth Service on Monday and Thursday mornings.
4 LUCAN GAZETTE 23 February 2012
ROADS Higgins wants issue of overgrown grass and impaired vision resolved
Call for council to prioritise N4 grass cutting I PAUL HOSFORD
LOCAL Fine Gael Councillor Emer Higgins has called on the council to prioritise the cutting of grass on the N4 median in 2012. Her call comes as details emerge in relation to the allocation
of funds supplied by the NRA to the council for the maintenance of national routes and their grass verges. “Over €6 million is to be provided by the NRA for the maintenance of national roads in South Dublin in 2012. Much of these funds will be ear-
marked for winter maintenance, bridge inspections and the upgrading of identified junctions; but a sizeable portion of this funding will be allocated to the upkeep of national roads,” said Cllr Higgins who received the information in response to a question she tabled
at this week’s council meeting. “The grass median on the N4 has been a contentious issue for years now. The grass is continually overgrown and restricts the vision of motorists as well as creating a bad impression of our area. I am asking the
council to prioritise this median in 2012,” said Cllr Higgins. “We have seen how emergency funding can be made available to tend to grass verges and medians along major routes during official visits, such as that of Queen Elizabeth, but we need a
long-term solution to this ongoing problem. “The only solution I can see is that this route be tended to under the NRA budget. Motorists in Lucan and Palmerstown have been dealing with this problem for far too long,” said Cllr Higgins.
Cllr Emer Higgins
Get outside and be physically active IF the gym or traditional fitness classes are not for you, and you want to get out and be physically active in a fun and social group at your own pace, a new initiative has the answer. Out On Your Feet, is an eight-week outdoor fitness walking programme which will help you start, or continue, walking for health, fitness and weight control. Out On Your Feet are there to show you how to prepare to begin or continue walking for health and fitness, can teach you correct walking techniques, walk better, faster and longer and cater for levels of fitness and abilities. The eight-week walking programme will begin in Maynooth, Co Kildare
(meeting next to the Presentation Girls School and entrance to the Avenue) from 7-8pm, with a cost of €60 for eight weeks. The programme is suitable for all fitness levels and abilities, so no need to worry if you don’t walk regularly as the programme is aimed at beginner’s right through to experienced walkers. All those that take part will be encouraged to participate at a pace that suits them. To register for the walking programme, give Tracy Bunyan a call on 087 246 9717 or drop her an email on info@outonyourfeet.com. For further information, log onto www.outonyourfeet.com or www. facebook.com/outonyourfeet.
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Poster Protest: Workers’ Party campaign IN LUCAN village on Friday, February 17, the
Workers’ Party protested against the selling off of public companies with a poster campaign demonstration. Spokesman for the local branch of the Workers’ Party, Michael Finnegan, said that the aim of the campaign was to highlight the disillusionment and anger felt by working people at the Government’s tactics of selling off public companies like the ESB and Bord na Mona. According to Mr Finnegan: “These are greatly profitable companies, and shouldn’t be handed away to private interests
who may rip them off, as happened in the Eircom case.” He said that companies such as Coillte and Bord na Mona were established for our fathers and grandfathers, and the Government’s plans to sell them off is in order to pay off the banks. These public companies were the main agencies for job creation in the State and should remain so as a matter of historical and practical principle. Around a dozen Workers’ Party members and supporters were handing out leaflets to passers by and displaying placards from early morning until 1pm.
ROADS: PLAN TO CLOSE MOUNT SESKIN ROAD IS OFF
Residents celebrate road plan victory RESIDENTS of Saggart can celebrate a victory this week, as it has been confirmed that the published preferred route for the N81 no longer involves plans to close off Mount Seskin Road. Minister Frances Fitzgerald, who campaigned with local residents led by John Cowman, has congratulated the community on their hugely successful campaign. “I am pleased that the plans for the upgrade of the N81 no longer involve the closure of Mount Seskin Road. I worked closely with local resident, John Cowman, to ensure that this road was not turned into a cul-de-sac. “John compiled a comprehensive petition ask-
ing for this road to be kept open and I personally delivered it to my Cabinet colleague, Minister Leo Varadkar, as well as sending it to the NRA and Kildare County Council. “I am delighted to have been able to ensure that the views of locals were taken into consideration. The plans no longer interfere with Mount Seskin Road in this way or divert extra traffic down Meegans Lane,” said Minister Fitzgerald. The plans presented to the local community before Christmas involved the potential closure of Mount Seskin Road as part of their upgrade of the N81 from Tallaght to Hollywood Cross. Kildare County Coun-
cil, who are project managing the route selection, have just published the Preferred Corridor showing a revision of these plans and remain at public consultation stage of the process. The Minister said the proposal to send extra traffic down Meegans Lane was unfeasible. “Before Christmas, I stood with a local resident at the point on Meegan’s Lane where it was proposed to connect it with Mount Seskin Road and it was plainly obvious to me that Meegan’s Lane is wholly unsuitable for additional traffic. “It is a narrow country road that winds down a steep hill and provides
very little room when two cars meet. It would have been totally unsafe to divert a new flow of traffic down this lane,” she said. She met with local resident John Cowman at the location.” Kildare Council has been asked to select a route for this project, but no funding to progress the upgrade of the N81 beyond selection stage has been secured. To have your say on the new plans, you can complete a questionnaire (available by calling 045 980 200) or write to the council at Kildare County Council National Road Design Office, Maudlins, Naas, Co Kildare or n81@ kildarenrdo.com.
23 February 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 5
6 LUCAN GAZETTE 23 February 2012
COUNCIL
Stopping illegal cigarettes COUNCILLOR Trevor Gilligan (FF) has asked South Dublin County Council to examine ways in which the council can discourage the buying and selling of illegal cigarettes in the area. Cllr Gilligan met with the South Dublin Chamber in the Clondalkin Civic Offices last week to examine ways in which the county can stop the illegal trade. Recent industry figures suggest that 25% of cigarettes smoked in Clondalkin are not bought in local shops, meaning huge losses to local retailers and a subsequent loss in jobs. “Whilst local shopkeepers are creating employment they also have to pay insurance, electricity, rates etc. These local shops are struggling whilst on the other hand selling illegal cigarettes seems to be a very lucrative venture for some individuals.”
SCHEME Recruitment freeze leaves posts unfilled
SDCC set to lose 61 staff to retirement I PAUL HOSFORD
lucan @gazettegroup.com
SOUTH Dublin County Council will lose 61 staff, including its manager, before the early retirement deadline of February 29, figures have revealed. A total of 61 staff applied for retirement before the February 1 closing date for applications for the Government’s scheme. The losses will mostly be made up of clerical administrative staff, of which 30 will be lost, with professional technical staff accounting for just four of the losses, and general services losing a total of 27. Due to a recruitment
embargo under the Croke Park Agreement, the roles are not to be refilled on a full-time basis, but a council spokesman is confident that the challenges of working with fewer staff will be met. “Due to the agreement in place under Croke Park, the staff won’t be replaced. That is a challenge for us, to reorganise and protect the frontline services. “It is a constant process, with strategic review and change in our organisation. It is our biggest challenge, to get more efficient, to work better. “One example is our libraries. Despite having a third less staff, the librar-
ies are three-times bigger. There are savings for the taxpayer down the line,” the spokesman said. The most high-profile loss will be county manager Joe Horan, who will retire after spending a decade at the helm of the county. South Dublin County Council says that Philomena Poole, a senior manager, will fill the role, as the council looks to modify at the top. Horan was widely praised at the most recent county council meeting for his stewardship of the council, which saw a number of successes. Sharing the credit for the work done at council
The Council will not be filling the posts left vacant from early retirement scheme
level with his team of managers, Horan said that he was “taken aback” by the comments of the councillors, some of whom had worked with many county managers, others who had only worked with Horan. “I would like to thank all of the members of the council, as well as the team of managers for their work and coopera-
tion over the years.” The tributes were led by Labour councillor Eamon Tuffy, who praised Horan as a visionary. “The use of technology was ahead of its time. I think I can speak for myself anyway when I say the manager was always very fair and balanced in his dealing with the members,” said Cllr Tuffy.
Councillor Guss O’Connell (Independent) said that not only was Mr Horan a visionary, he was a man of action. “It’s one thing to have ideas, it’s another thing to listen to ideas, but it is a third, and much more difficult thing, to get people to implement them. And I think that’s where Joe shines.”
23 February 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 7
CRIME No arrests made over open area find
Gardai recover devices in Celbridge GARDAI this week recovered a number of weapons in Celbridge. As part of ongoing investigations into the activities of dissident Republicans, gardai from the Special Detective Unit carried
out a search operation in an open area near the town. During the course of the search, a handgun and three improvised explosive devices were recovered. The Defence Forces’ Explosive
Ordnance Disposal team were called to the scene and examined the devices. No arrests were made, and Gardai say investigations are continuing.
Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard Joseph Warren’s plea of not guilty
COURTS: TRANSIT VAN FOLLOWED BY VEHICLES
Man denies role in €1m Chubb robbery A DUBLIN man has gone on trial accused of plotting with several others to steal more than €1 million from a cashin-transit van in Kildare five years ago. Joseph Warren (30) of Belclare Crescent, Ballymun, has pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to conspiring to steal cash from Chubb Ireland at Tesco supermarket on the Shackleton Road in Celbridge on Nov 2, 2007. The trial is expected to last up to five weeks, due to the large number of witnesses involved. In her opening speech, prosecuting counsel, Ms Deirdre Murphy SC, told
the jury it would hear evidence that, at 6am on Nov 2, 2007, the accused and five other men gathered in four vehicles in Ballymun. They are then alleged to have travelled in convoy to near the headquarters of Chubb Ireland, in Sandyford, and, from there, followed a cash-in-transit van containing more than €1 million to Celbridge. Ms Murphy said it was the State’s case that a combination of finger prints, CCTV footage, mobile phone and walkie-talkie evidence, and other technical data, will show that the six suspects maintained contact with each other
along the route. She said the Nissan patrol van owned by Chubb Ireland arrived at Tesco in Celbridge just before 10am, followed by the four vehicles, and that the driver of the patrol van got out to deliver cash to an ATM machine. Counsel told the jury it would hear evidence that Warren approached the Chubb Ireland van in the car park of Celbridge Shopping Centre with a “consaw”, which is capable of cutting through metal, and was running at the time. Ms Murphy said he was accompanied by co-accused, who had a bunch of keys, and tried
unsuccessfully to open two doors of the cashin-transit van. She said gardai then moved in and arrested both men, before apprehending the other four suspects shortly afterwards. The jury also due to hear evidence from a passenger in the cashin-transit van, who is alleged to have given evidence to “persons unknown” which allowed for keys to be cut for a number of Chubb Ireland vehicles two days before the incident. The trial continues before Judge Tony Hunt and a jur y of seven women and five men.
8 LUCAN GAZETTE 23 February 2012
CHARITY Community support for Nagarhope fundraiser
Declan Carr closes in on the ball
Cronan Dooley, Brian Brady and Dublin Senior footballer, Paul Casey. Pictures: Paddy Barrett
Just the medicine for Doc’s fundraiser
ACHTNA “Doc” Clandillon was on hand to oversee the recent fundraising afternoon at Lucan Sarsfields’ GAA Club in aid of Nagarhope. Lots of locals turned out for the celebrity challenge and magic show, with hurling and soccer proving particularly popular on the day, while
F
the magic show in the function room after the games entertained young and old alike. Croke Park sent out a camera team on the day to promote Peil Abu and Caman Abu, a non-contact form of our national games, while several local well-known figures certainly gave their
Sam Salmonn, John Fitzpatrick and Jack Shannon
all for the games, providing scenes of enthusiasm that were well worth watching. Doc thanked everyone for coming along on the day, singling out everyone who played and participated on the day, with Lucanians happy to keep supporting Nagarhope.
Paul Stapleton and Ciaran Dunne
Manager Brian Kerr and “Doc”
The teams put up strong but good-natured challenges on the day
23 February 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 9
LETTER TO THE EDITOR Clarification of Govt plan
Enterprise Board is open for business
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“I WRITE to you in connection with the recent announcement of the Government’s Action Plan for Jobs 2012. Included in the new plan is a proposal to dissolve the County and City Enterprise Boards and this announcement has caused some concern among our many clients and affiliated organisations. Since the news broke, we have received a large number of enquiries from businesses and entrepreneurs seeking clarification as to how this decision may affect them. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to share with you what we know and to assure you of our continued commitment to the provision of the highest level of service. I also wish to confirm that we are OPEN for business. The Government has announced a re-focusing of enterprise support structures, which calls for the establishment of Local Enterprise Offices (One Stop Shops) in each Local Authority area, working with Enterprise Ireland’s new Small Business Unit. The intention is that the County and City Enterprise Boards will migrate into this new structure. As yet, there is very little detail on matters such as reporting responsibilities, levels of autonomy, advisory structures and staffing levels. There has been no mention of changes in the range of services that county and city Enterprise Boards provide by way of business supports and the budget line available. We feel strongly that the role currently undertaken by our Board of Directors and Evaluation Committee, all undertaken on a voluntary basis and providing much guidance and direction, must be brought into any new system. The impending changes represent an opportunity to improve the efficiency and efficacy of local service delivery to businesses throughout Ireland. The real challenge will be to avoid creating labyrinthine structures, which, quite frankly, do not deliver a quality service to clients
Heavenly Hendricks: Getting your own red carpet look
and are not an efficient use of limited resources. The new approach needs to eliminate duplication, reduce red tape and introduce synergies into the national enterprise support structure. ---------------------------------------
‘The impending changes represent an opportunity to improve the efficiency and efficacy of local service delivery to businesses throughout Ireland’
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In Fingal, I have no doubt that the outcome to this change can be successful, and, by success, I mean better service, greater coordination and joined-up thinking. It is our intention to embrace this change and facilitate a move forward to an exciting future, where entrepreneurs get the right support and conditions to create and grow businesses that will, in turn, create the jobs of the future for our families and citizens. We promise to keep you informed about progress on the new arrangements and would welcome your input on how the new structures need to operate from your perspective as a cust o m e r and stakeholder.”
Oisin Geoghegan CEO, Fingal County Enterprise Board
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Oisin Geoghegan, CEO, Fingal County Enterprise Board
BEAUTY PAGE 14
10 LUCAN GAZETTE 23 February 2012
23 February 2012 GAZETTE 11
HEALTH: NATIONWIDE SCHOOL’S CONTEST
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Professor Niall Moyna and RTE Radio 1’s John Murray are calling on first-year secondary school students to put themselves forward to have their fitness levels tested by the commonly-used “bleep test” method
Improve kids’ fitness with Beat the Bleep RTE Radio 1’s John Murray Show has teamed up with Dublin City University to challenge 9,000 secondary school students to improve fitness by taking part in a Beat the Bleep competition. Beat the Bleep was launched on the popular show, last week, by Professor Niall Moyna, head of the School of Health and Human Performance at DCU, and fitness advisor to the Dublin GAA club.
Students from 125 different secondary schools nationwide have been challenged to beat their previously recorded class average fitness levels over the next six weeks. The class with the best result will be awarded €1,000 towards their school’s physical education programme, and a place for each participating student on a three-day live-in sports and activity camp at DCU. In January, John Mur-
ray and Prof Moyna called on first-year secondary school students to put themselves forward to have their fitness levels tested by the commonlyused “bleep test” method, which involves continuous running between two lines 20m apart in time to recorded beeps. The student’s score is the level and number of 20m shuttles reached before they were unable to keep up with the “bleep”.
12 GAZETTE 23 February 2012
Gazette Contacts
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CHARITY Public urged to use books to help
Start a new chapter for St Michael’s House ST MICHAEL’S House, who provide communitybased services for children and adults with an intellectual disability, has this week launched its 2012 Bring A Book, Buy A Book campaign. RTE presenter Miriam O’Callaghan was on hand at the launch of the campaign to lend her support. She said that she hoped as many people as possible would become involved. “I am delighted to support the St Michael’s House Bring A Book, Buy A Book campaign this year. “Setting up a cam-
paign location in work, at home or in the classroom couldn’t be easier, and is a great way to encourage reading. “I urge as many people as possible to take part in this great initiative to support St Michael’s House in raising funds to provide essential communitybased services for people with an intellectual disability,” she said. The campaign asks volunteers to set up campaign locations in their offices, schools, colleges, clubs or homes. Volunteers contribute their second-hand books, and purchase books donated by their col-
leagues, fellow students, friends or family, at a cost of €2 per book. The campaign encourages reading for all, and all funds raised will go directly to St Michael’s House. Inez Bailey, director, National Adult Literacy Agency, said: “Not only does the campaign encourage people to read and share books, but it also raises much-needed funds for St Michael’s House. “So, if you can’t donate, why not buy your books from one of the many locations around the country, and make a difference with your pur-
chase?” she asked. Eamonn Fitzgerald, chairman, St Michael’s House, said that the aim this year was to raise more money than last year. He said: “We are delighted to launch the Bring A Book, Buy A Book campaign. We raised €45,000 last year, and aim to exceed that figure this year. “We look forward to welcoming back those who have supported the initiative in the past, and we hope to see some new schools, clubs, families and companies taking part this year, too. “This is a great way for companies to boost
morale, while participating in a worthwhile programme,” said Fitzgerald. A number of pop-up shops will be set up for the Bring A Book, Buy A Book campaign. This year, pop-up shops can be found in a number of Dublin city centre locations, including Connolly Station and Grafton Street. St Michael’s House has also teamed up with Eight Twenty Cabs to provide their customers with free books to celebrate the campaign, while the institution will also be leaving free books in selected Eight Twenty cabs around the city.
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23 February 2012 GAZETTE 13
support a special, nationwide fundraising initiative
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Penn-ing a winner: The story of a fading rockstar Eamon Fitzgerald, chairman, St Michael’s House and RTE broadcaster, Miriam O’Callaghan, were joined by St Michael’s House service users, Ruthanne and Dylan, to help launch the event
Miriam O’Callaghan shares a story with Ruthanne Gallagher and Dylan Campbell
Sarah Mullins, general manager, Eight Twenty Cabs, said: “The drivers have had a great response from their passengers, and we are delighted to be a part of this very worthwhile cause, and it is fantastic to see this campaign growing in support every year.” The Bring A Book, Buy
a Book campaign was first piloted in 2008, with 15 different locations taking part. The campaign has since enjoyed growing success, with 140 locations taking part in 2011, and a total of 90,000 books exchanged and €45,000 raised for St Michael’s House. The campaign will take
place from March 1 to March 8. To register your location and receive a starter pack for the campaign, see the Facebook page at www.facebook. com/stmichaelshouse; visit the website at: www. smh.ie or www.bringabookbuyabook.ie, email: fundraising@smh.ie, or phone 01 884 0200.
ENTERTAINMENT PAGE 24
14 GAZETTE 23 February 2012
SYMPTOMS
Check for signs of diabetes ARE you at risk from diabetes? Staff at Lucan Village Pharmacy are encouraging locals, and all Dubliners, to be aware of the symptoms as part of being more health-aware. Diabetes results when the body is unable to remove sufficient amounts of glucose from the blood. It is estimated that there are about 146,000 undetected prediabetics in Ireland at present. Uncontrolled diabetes dramatically increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, and can lead to nerve damage, kidney damage, and damage to the eyes, foot ulcers and risk of infections. If you suffer from constant thirst, frequent urination or regular infections, visit your local pharmacy for a five-minute glucose test to rule out this disease. With thanks to the staff at Lucan Village Pharmacy
GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY
By Laura Webb
A heavenly look from Hendricks I LAURA WEBB
THE award ceremony season is about to take a bow for another year when the biggest event, the Oscars, hits the small screen this week, but before it ends, Gazette Beauty looks back at one of the best BAFTA looks, courtesy of Mad Men star, Christina Hendricks. The American beauty is not seen as one to shy away from a hint of colour, and her amazing pale complexion means everything and anything suits her flawlessly. Her BAFTA, red-carpet look perfectly complemented her fiery red hair and elegant black gown. Coral gloss and peach blush brought great warmth to her pale skin, and can easily be repeated in the front of a bathroom mirror with a little help from Maybelline. To get the look, use medium coverage foundation like Dream Satin Liquid by Maybelline (€11.99) for that dewy complexion. Warm tones on blue or green eyes work wonders on highlighting that colour. Choose complemetary toned shades such as those used in Maybelline’s Eye Studio Quad in Coral Drama (€9.99). The lightest base shade should be used all over the lid, including the inner eye then blend the brighter coral tones into the lash line and socket line. Use Maybelline’s Eye Studio Gel liner (€11.99) to give lashes a full and thick look by adding a flick to the eye, finishing off with the New Falsies Flared mascara (€11.99) on top lashes only.
Cheeks look healthy with a touch of cream blusher, Maybelline’s Dream Touch blusher in Peach (€10.89) is best applied to the apples of your cheek using light criss-cross motions, for a perfectly blended result. Finish the make-up by adding a splash of colour to lips with Maybelline’s Colour Sensational lipstick in Coral Pop (€10.49); for a stonger colour apply one coat then blot with tissue paper and apply another coat. For added shine, and to make lips appear fuller, use a clear lip gloss on top. Maybelline Falsies Flared Mascara
Maybelline Dream Touch Blush Peach
Maybelline Dream Satin Liquid
Maybelline Eye Studio Quad Coral Drama
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Mad Men star, Christina Hendricks
23 February 2012 GAZETTE 15
GazettePETS PETS
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
THE FACTS: WHEN YOU SHOULD – AND SHOULD NOT – INTERACT WITH KITTENS
Preparing for the annual wave of ‘unwanted’ kittens S I write, we are in the throes or organising, stocking up and preparing for kitten season here at the DSPCA. However, even though it’s still February, and kitten season doesn’t historically start until April, this week, we welcomed our first orphaned kittens of the year – little Starsky and Hutch – through our shelter doors. Last year, the DSPCA rescued 2,038 cats, some of which were injured strays, felines abandoned by their owners, victims of road traffic accidents, or “surrenders” by members of the public. Sometimes, a wellmeaning member of the public brings in a litter, assuming they’ve been abandoned by the mother, when she is actually away finding food, or trying to keep humans and other unwelcome prey away from her nest area. Other rescue cats we see are mothers with newborns, and many orphaned babies who were brought directly into the nursery, where staff work round the clock providing the critical care they so desperately need. So, where do they all
A
Tending to the needs of another newborn kitten that has ended up in the tender care of the DSPCA
come from? They are usually the offspring of former domestic cats who’ve been abandoned by their owners, and are now giving birth, flooding our shelter with homeless litters. As you can imagine, the cats are not the only ones feeling the effects of the stress. The burden also presents enormous challenges for us here at the DSPCA, with space and finances stretched to the limit and, on top of our usual complement of rescued animals, we are inundated with hundreds of homeless cats. So, what can readers do to help? Firstly, the most efficient way to reduce the overwhelming burden of
unwanted cats is to spay or neuter your own cat. Unaltered cats are driven by hormones, and will sneak outdoors in search of a mate. It’s important to know that mating just the once can start a cycle that will result in thousands of unwanted animals, who are often left to fend for themselves and end up arriving en masse here at the DSPCA. Here are some guidelines to follow if you come across a mother cat and her litter. Firstly, try to establish if the family is tame or feral. If the mother cat miaows and responds to you giving her food and water (never offer milk), then she’s most likely tame. Give the family shelter, but do not separate
mother and kittens – keep them together in a garden shed, downstairs loo, cloakroom or utility room – and ring the DSPCA at 01 – 499 4700 for advice. If the mother and her kittens hiss and warn you off, then it’s likely they’re feral. If the kittens have opened their eyes fully (this usually occurs at around two weeks), it’s likely the kittens can see, and may try to defend themselves by biting you. In this case, leave them alone and, again, do not remove kittens from the mother, but ring the DSPCA and we will offer you advice. It’s important to understand that, even though the family is feral, there is every chance we can tame the kittens, re-home them when they are ready to leave their mother, and spay the mother, so that this situation does not recur. Either way, it is imperative that you do not ever remove or separate the kittens from their mother – to do so could mean their certain death. For more
information log onto www.dspca.ie or email me miriam.kerins@ dspca.ie
16 GAZETTE 23 February 2012
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS
Supported by AIB
Interview: Andrew Kavanagh, director, Sales and Marketing, Castleknock Hotel & Country Club
TRACKER – PAY OFF OR INVEST ? Q – MY MORTGAGE has a balance of €175,000. It is on a current tracker rate of 1.75% (0.75% margin) but, last month, my mother’s probate came through, leaving me with just over €200,000 tax-free. What would you advise - pay off the mortgage, or invest ? Gerry - Kimmage A - While it is very tempting to have your home debt-free, the fact is that you could earn greater net interest on a deposit account than paying mortgage interest. For example, the best demand deposit account currently is 3.1% - net 2.17%, after deduction of 30% DIRT tax – or 0.42% greater interest. However, you might want the cash flow and, therefore, it still comes down to your annual budget. On a 25-year capital and interest term, you are paying c. €720 every month – including the capital. While you would earn €61.25 more interest each month on the deposit than you would be paying the mortgage interest, you still have to pay that capital back monthly. Paying off the loan entirely eliminates that monthly debt completely, and your cash flow immediately improves. Does this suit you, or have you something better to do with the money ... if you can afford to continue those payments ? For example: - Invest in your own start-up business - Pay off any debts - Help any family members in trouble - Improve and update your home – iPad, iPhone, 3D tv, etc . One thing you do have is time. With tracker rates likely to remain low for the next two years, you do not have to make this decision now. Take professional advice. 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.
Enjoying working with the community ANDREW Kavanagh is the director of Sales and Marketing at Castleknock Hotel & Country Club, part of the FBD Hotel group, a role he has held since May, 2008. Andrew was born and raised in Hartstown, attending St Ciaran’s National School and Hartstown Community School. He has a BA Honours Degree in Marketing Management, and started working in the hospitality industry at CentralR.com, an online travel website, as a sales executive. He worked his way up to sales manager before opening their new Asia-Pacific office in Sydney as operations manager in June, 2006. Upon his return to Ireland, he worked in sales and marketing roles in both the Morgan Hotel and the Ballymun Plaza Hotel before beginning in Castleknock Hotel & Country Club. He says: “I really enjoy working with the local community and trying to make the hotel a focal point for the local area. We sponsor teams like Castleknock GAA and Castleknock Celtic, trying to give them as much support as possible, and we’ve been delighted with the progress that both clubs have made with their facilities.” Andrew has described the hotel’s recent performance as very positive after a difficult couple of years for the Irish hotel industry as a whole. The hotel has seen huge growth in the level of weddings and conferences booked in the past 18 months, and this looks to be continuing with new capital projects in the pipeline and 19 new staff recruited last year. He currently lives in Clonsilla with his fiancee, Pamela Nolan, who is the HR manager at Castleknock Hotel & Country Club.
Andrew Kanavagh, Castleknock Hotel & Country Club
Q&A Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be? A: A pilot Q: What was your first job? A: Packing shelves in Roches’ Stores, Blanchardstown
Q: Have you ever done a
job you loathed? A: Wondering if our general manager reads your paper ... Never!
Q: What is the best thing about your job? A: Working in the area I was born and raised in
Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’? A: Making the tea Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be? A: A can of gin and tonic mixer that’s been there for about 18
months.
Q: What sport do you follow? A: I get told that I would
late, and promising each morning to change my ways the next night – only to repeat the cycle.
watch two insects running up the wall for sport. I’m a bit of a fanatic.
Q: At the moment, what are you looking forward to? A: My wedding next
Q: What sport can you play? A: I like to play golf, soccer, tennis, cricket with Clonee Cricket Club, but I’m not the best.
Q: What habits would you like to lose? A: Going to bed far too
LOCALMATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS
week
Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: Wall Street 2 – I don’t know why, it’s not even that good
Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook? A: I really like to follow some of the presenters on Newstalk, and some football journalists
Q: What was your last Tweet/status update? A: Giving out about my team, Liverpool
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Q: Describe your dream meal? A: Homemade lasagne, fat chips and coleslaw
Q: Where do you enjoy
spending money frivolously? A: Like many people, I tend to find I like spending frivolously on my mortgage.
Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own? A: About six or seven Q: What was your worst holiday experience? A: Playa de Los Americas, Tenerife. A lads’ holiday when I was 19. Let’s just say, we didn’t live or dine in luxury.
Q: Describe your dream holiday? A: Road trip around the USA for a couple of months
Q: What would be your dream job? A: To own my own travel business
Q: What do you plan to do when you retire? A: Lots of holidays, lots of golf, lots of grandchildren
23 February 2012 GAZETTE 17
18 GAZETTE 23 February 2012
GazetteMOTORS MOTORS
Edited by Cormac Curtis
RoadSigns Road Signs HONDAS GET A HART TO HELP WITH UPGRADES D U BL I N Ho n d a owners can now avail of the company’s latest innovation, HART (Honda Advanced Repair Technology). This wireless diagnostic technology is now available at all authorised Honda Dealers, and has been designed to assist after-sales technicians in communicating and upgrading software on Honda vehicles in a fast and efficient manner. HART provides the technicians with a seamless integration of troubleshooting with the on-board vehicle diagnostic systems, not only improving efficiency, but also first-time repair.
While the interior of the Mazda TAKERI (inset) is as stylish and luxurious as one would expect, the company’s real focus for the TAKERI at the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show will be its wealth of notable features, ranging from its clever capture and storing of energy via its regenerative braking system to further improving fuel economy
Takeri – a Mazda marvel T T H E 2 01 2 Geneva International Motor Show Mazda is set to unveil, for the first time, its Mazda TAKERI concept – a next-generation mid-sized saloon featuring Mazda’s unique i-ELOOP regenerative braking technology. It will be joined onstage by the Mazda CX-5, a new compact crossover SUV equipped with the full range of Mazda’s breakthrough SK YACTIV technology; the MX-5 Special Edition Spring 2012, designed exclusively for the European market, and an array of new technologies and production models.
A
Adapting Mazda’s new KODO – Soul of Motion design theme, the TAKERI concept brings a new level of strength and allure to sedan styling. The TAKERI offers a taste of the future direction of Mazda’s next-generation CD sedan, having inherited the vision of the Mazda SHINARI, a four-door sports coupe concept showcased last year in Geneva. Under this exterior, the TAKERI features Mazda’s highly-efficient new SKYACTIV-D diesel engine, with i-stop (idlestop) system, and sixspeed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission. The TAKERI aims for
the ultimate in energy efficiency without compromising on Mazda’s characteristic “zoomzoom” performance, and is the first car to be equipped with i-ELOOP. Kinetic energy Short for “Intelligent Energy Loop”, i-ELOOP – the company’s first regenerative braking system – uses a unique solution that converts kinetic energy to electricity during deceleration and stores it in an electric double layer capacitor. The power is used to run the vehicle’s electric components, thereby reducing the engine load
and increasing fuel economy by up to 10%. This contributes to the Mazda TAKERI’s outstanding fuel economy, which is achieved at no sacrifice to performance or comfort. The all-new CX-5 is the first production model incorporating Mazda’s new KODO – Soul of Motion design theme, and is also the first built with the full SKYACTIV technology range of engines, transmissions, body and chassis. The CX-5 thus delivers outstanding performance and responsive, yet predictable, handling, as well as a high-quality ride and exceptional safety.
Class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions come courtesy of the CX-5’s lightweight and aerodynamic design, together with the frugal SKYACTIV engines (all featuring i-stop), and fuel-saving SKYACTIV transmissions. The new MX-5 Special Edition Spring 2012 has been given an extra touch of class with a host of premium features, including chrome headlamp inserts, grille surrounds and fog lamp bezels on the outside, and Havana Brown premium leather upholstery on the inside. Available only in Europe, the latest ver-
sion of Mazda’s legendary roadster comes with soft-top or retractable hard-top, and a choice of four body colours: Radiant Ebony – exclusively for this model – along with Crystal White Pearl, Metropolitan Grey and Brilliant Black. In addition to extended audio connectivity, the Special Edition Spring 2012 will be the first MX-5 with an integrated navigation system. Mazda’s display at the 82nd Geneva International Motor Show will also showcase the company’s brand-new SK YACTIV technology, as well as all current models.
Number of prestigious awards for Ford from EURO NCAP EURO NCAP, Europe’s leading authority on auto safety, has named the Ford Focus the Best in Class small family car, in recognition of the vehicle’s crash-test rating and advanced safety technology. The Focus scooped one of only five Best In Class awards accolades on the strength of its maximum five-star
Euro NCAP rating, as well as four Euro NCAP Advanced rewards last year – an achievement unmatched by any other high-volume car. Euro NCAP also made special mention of the new Ford Ranger after it became the safest pickup yet tested by the organisation, achieving the only five-star Euro NCAP rating ever award-
ed to a pickup. The Ranger scored highly in all areas of assessment, receiving particular credit for pedestrian protection. Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe, said: “This award has special meaning, because designing and building the safest vehicles possible is a core value at Ford.
“The Focus exemplifies our approach to design cars that both help drivers avoid accidents and protect them when one is inevitable.” The Focus five-star rating was achieved through an adult occupant score of 92%, child occupant rating of 82%, pedestrian score of 72% and safety assist rating of 71%.
23 February 2012 GAZETTE 19
CommunionsCONFIRMATIONS 20 GAZETTE 23 February 2012
&
A few tips for family day to A
time; planning all of the details and imagining how the day will go. They will feel very grown-up, especially as they are all dressed up on the day. The Communion photo is an important part of every Commun-
ion experience, and it’s important to preserve the memory of this special occasion in a timeless portrait. There are a number of things to keep in mind that will help ensure you get photographs you will enjoy for years to come:
1. You should choose your photographer wisely, just as you would with any service provider you are thinking of hiring to work with your children. Don’t just go with the cheapest, or the one that the school has coming in, without checking out their work. Ask yourself a number of questions before booking: • Do you like their photographic style? • Do they just take traditional, posed shots, or can they produce more relaxed, artistic work that shows some of your child’s personality? • Are they technically
GET YOUR
CHILD’S First Holy Communion is a special milestone in their young lives, and in the life of their whole family. They have probably been looking forward to this day for a very long
proficient? Do skin tones look right? Can they photograph a white dress without losing the detail? • Are the photographs available in black and white or just colour? • Can you buy the CD of photos for you to reproduce them for relatives if you really like them? • Do they have experience working with children, settling any nerves and getting the best out of your child on a potentially stressful day? 2. Remember any accessories that make up part of your child’s Commun-
PARTY
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23 February 2012 GAZETTE 21
CELEBRATING YOUR CHILD’S SPECIAL DAY
one special remember ion outfit, such as gloves, parasol, tie pins or cufflinks. “Ever yone forgets either the rosary beads or a prayer book!” says professional photographer Denise Cannon. “Keep them in Mammy’s handbag or Dad’s pocket until you need them, but don’t worry – a good photographer should always have spares on hand.” Also remember any special gifts the child has been given for their day, such as a cross pendant or dove pin as it might be nice for your child to be photographed wearing them.
3. USE this opportunity to have the whole family photographed together. It often takes a special occasion to prompt a family photo, so this is a perfect time to have one taken while everyone is dressed to the nines with their hair done! Have your photographer take photos of the Communion child with all of the different members of the family for a unique record of the day. Imagine how delighted Granny, or the child’s
godparents, would be if you give them a portrait of them together on their special day. 4. COMMUNION portraits are most often taken on the day itself, but you may be able to lessen some of the stress if you can have them taken beforehand. If girls are practising their hairdo before the day, they can pop on the dress and they’re ready, while boys just have to change into their new clothes.
If you’re including the family in the pictures, it’s a good opportunity to see if everything fits everyone and if their outfits will look good together in a portrait. You can also have the portrait taken after the occasion, but bear in mind that the dress, or suit, might not survive the Communion celebrations unscathed. But a good photographer should be able to retouch any small stains or damage with little trouble.
Getting the right picture will help make a special day one to remember
22 GAZETTE 23 February 2012
GazetteTTRAVEL Travel EXTRA Blag a bloomin’ bargain dahn the stalls at a luvverly London market BARGAIN hunters, and those looking to find some real gems, are well-served by London markets, with BMI ready to whisk you away in style. Brick Lane Market is spread across several streets in the Brick Lane area, and features a wide range of market treasures while, of particular note, there are also some fantastic stalls selling exotic spices and colourful saris. Camden Market offers an extensive range of goods, from designer clothes and accessories, to one-off pieces of art, food and furnishings. Portobello Road Market has been a market since the 1800s, but became particularly famous for its antiques in the 1950s. Now, numerous stalls offer everything from fruit and bread to posters, clothes, music and of course, antiques. Old Spitalfields Market is a popular, covered market, selling everything from clothes to food to artwork. Once you’ve finished shopping, the cool bars and clubs of Shoreditch are just a stone’s throw away. Covent Garden London, housed in and around the iconic Market Building and piazzas, is an architectural masterpiece, with speciality shops, restaurants and cafes. Petticoat Lane Market, despite its name, is actually located on Middlesex and Wentworth Streets, near Liverpool Street station, and has great fashion bargains and household goods. For further information on London markets, log onto www.visitlondon.com; for flights to London, see www.flybmi.com.
Rugby’s cancelled? cosy up at Kinnitty K, I admit it occasionally I book weekends away – with my wife, but without the kids – to coincide with Ireland’s rugby internationals. So, sue me. But, to be fair, I am lucky enough to be married to someone who is as obsessed with rugby as I am – if not a little more so. Imagine then, if you will, the opportunity to visit Kinnitty Castle, in Co Offaly, without the kids, for the weekend of the Ireland v France Six
O
Nations’ clash. It is, as the younger readers might say, a nobrainer. We knew little or nothing about Kinnitty Castle before this trip, so, just like any other couple would, the Mrs and I did a little digging around online to find out what was being said about the place. I really wasn’t ready for what we found. Bearing in mind that we’re talking about a Gothic revival castle in the country - why is it people expect a place like this to offer satellite
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‘This is a castle with the kind of magic that reminds couples why they like to sneak off by themselves in the first place
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TV, air con, double glazing and a mini bar? This place was first destroyed in the year 1209, fast forward 700 years, and Republican forces burned the castle, after which it was rebuilt in 1928 to the building that stands today. This is not a Jurys or a Holiday Inn, it’s not a
Four Seasons, A Carlton or even a Sheraton. This is a castle that possesses the kind of magic that reminds couples why they like to sneak off to the country by themselves in the first place. No two guest rooms are the same, each boasts its own distinctive design and character – if you’re
lucky, you’ll get to stay in the O’Carroll suite – without doubt the biggest and most elegant guest room I have ever had the pleasure of staying in. Stunning period furniture and lighting make this a unique experience. And, for those who enjoy a dramatic bed, this one will take your breath away. A free-standing, highbacked bath finishes off the luxury here, so let’s talk about the food. We sat in the magnificent dining room, and enjoyed starters of spiced cream of cauliflower soup
23 February 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 23
Edited by Mimi Murray
FastTravel The Dominican Republic delights
A weekend at Kinnitty Castle, left, was just the thing for Cormac Curtis, above, and his wife. A lunch at The Thatch, in the nearby village of Crinkle, proved a successful outing ahead of the weekend’s rugby internationals
Special offer: Enjoy Easter with the family at Kinnitty APART from Christmas, Easter is one of the only holidays when the family can get together around a table full of food and eat until their hearts are content. Kinnitty Castle Hotel is putting on a deliciously
So, just Castle as well as crab and avocado - a real treat, especially the soup. Moving on to our mains, my hake on a fennel rosti served with langoustines was perfect, and my darling wife enjoyed a rump of lamb served with roast veg and a red wine jus – all cooked perfectly, and seasoned to perfection, the missus never once reached for the salt! Mille feuilles chantilly cream strawberries and an almond and pear tart finished off a stunning meal. After enjoying our food, the grounds of the castle
provided the perfect setting for an evening walk to help work off one or two calories! The next day, after a terrific hot breakfast served to the table, NOT a buffet, we had a quick flick through the newspapers before heading for the nearby town of Birr. As I said, it was a rugby weekend, so we needed to fit in a little sight-seeing before the matches kicked off. The Birr Castle Demesne is a delightful, award-winning spot where guests can get some fresh air and enjoy
special three-course Easter Sunday Lunch for just €21.50 per person (or two courses for €17.50 per person), with a special Easter Egg hunt for the children at 11am around the Castle grounds, on Sunday, April 8. Guests can extend their stay to include luxurious overnight accommodation with breakfast the next morning from an extra €75 per person. Steeped in fascinating history and full of character, Kinnitty Castle Hotel is a blend of old-world style and taste, complete with charming bedrooms. For details, call Kinnitty Castle Hotel on 057 9137318 or visit www.kinnittycastlehotel.com.
an afternoon coffee. But you cannot visit Birr without swinging by the famous Thatch restaurant in Crinkle. No prizes for guessing the kind of roof on this place – but the real magic is with the incredibly friendly staff and terrific value in delicious food. Seafood chowder, garlic mushrooms, duck spring roll and tiger prawns all provided the perfect base for an evening in a local pub to catch the Six Nations... Did I mention there were two matches to watch? A little advice from the
local music shop owner led us to the Chestnut pub, a more perfect spot we would not have been able to find. This place poured a great pint, had candles lit all over, a roaring fire, and a big screen - Pub perfection. The Italians almost got the better of the English that afternoon, and the Ireland game has yet to be played – but that didn’t stop us getting back to the hotel to enjoy a few last hours of luxury. This place comes highly, highly recommended.
FOR some luxury this summer, look to the Dominican Republic with Tropical Sky, which, from €1,079 per person, has a package for seven nights on an all-inclusive basis at the five-star Now Larimar in the Dominican Republic, making a saving of €340 per person. The price includes scheduled flights from Dublin, a room upgrade with accommodation in a deluxe tropical view room, resort transfers, taxes and surcharges. The package also includes a US$200 resort coupon per room per stay. Located on a picturesque white-sand beach, Now Larimar boasts gourmet restaurants, premium cocktails, a world-class spa and endless daytime and nighttime activities. For details on this, and other holidays, contact Tropical Sky at 01 807 7996, or see www.tropicalsky.ie.
24 LUCAN GAZETTE 23 February 2012
GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT
GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 The Picture of Dorian Grey
YOU’LL be Wilde about this production of the classic play, with Oscar’s masterpiece being brought to life with ease by the expert players of Wonderland Productions Limited. Presented by The Pavilion, yet to be hosted at Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Killiney, Gate Theatre regulars Michael James Ford and Michael Winder will be joined by the RSC’s Simon Coury for an exquisite dinner theatre show at 7.30pm on Friday, February 24, with tickets priced €45, which includes a three-course meal.
MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 David O’Doherty CONTINUING The Mill’s eclectic range of entertainment for south Dublin arts lovers, and running nightly at 8.10pm in the Studio until Saturday, February 25, Studio Shorts will feature a number of brisk but memorable plays. Small Box Psychosis, Bar and Ger, and The Philadelphia, will entertain with their tales of being trapped in an elevator, the relationship between a brother and sister, and a man’s bizarre adventures, respectively, and all courtesy of The Balally Players, with tickets priced at €12/€10.
DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Johnny McEvoy THE dulcet tones of Irish legend, Johnny McEvoy, are sure to delight at Draiocht, with his return visit to the venue sure to strike a chord with his fans. A warm-hearted, nostalgic evening awaits music fans, featuring many of McEvoy’s songs, presented with a master’s touch for the best of Irish folk and ballads. Johnny will also feature a number of tracks from his new album. Catch his show on Saturday, February 25 at 8pm, with tickets priced €25/€23 conc.
The legendary, titular singer of Cheyenne and the Fellows (Sean Penn) finds his dull, boring life living in wealthy obscurity in Dublin is about to change when he heads off to New York to reconcile with his dying father – only to find himself travelling the States as an unlikely Nazi hunter
Penn-ing a winner Nazis, pop stars, New York and Blanchardstown – This Must Be The Place is anything but a conventional film ... I KATE CROWLEY
AH, I love cinema! Just think of all the exotic sights and locations that a film can take you to, whisking you away from mundane, depressing reality! (The sorry sight of the Crowley household’s bedraggled back garden in February is reason enough to practically move into the nearest one-screener.) I mean, just think of all the amazing locales that a film can take you to – such as, err... Blanchardstown Shopping Centre! Yes, indeed, you read that right. Hollywood is all set to welcome the sights and sounds of humble BSC to her sun-kissed shore, courtesy of Sean Penn’s upcoming film, This Must Be The Place, which, some readers may have noted, was partly filmed in parts of Dublin some time back, with a number of other instantly recognisable Dublin loca-
FILM OF THE WEEK: This Must Be The Place #### (15A) 110 mins Director: Paolo Sorrentin Starring: Sean Penn, Frances McDormand, Judd Hirsh, Harry Dean Staunton, Eve Hewson, Blanchardstown Shopping Centre
OUR VERDICT: IN SOME ways, This Must Be The Place is like a lot of films you’ve seen before – yet, in other ways, it’s like nothing you’ve seen before. Mixing up several road movie tropes, and with much of the film having a familiar Americana setting, it still manages to create its own identity in an already crowded genre, largely thanks to Penn’s memorable character, and unusual subject matter.
tions and sights also popping up in the film’s first act. And now, this must be the review; a little in advance of its imminent release, but hey – my column, my rules, folks! Cheyenne (Penn) is a faded pop star with a, um, rather distinctive look, mooching around in Dublin, living a thoroughly boring life in his mansion, supported by the royalties from his long-gone hits, and living with his lovely American wife of many years, Jane (McDormand). Plodding around Dublin, Cheyenne’s life – bar
the delightful Jane – is more or less meaningless ... until, that is, meaning and purpose comes a-callin’, courtesy of his dying father back in the States, whom he hasn’t seen in 30 years. Arriving too late to make things up with his old man, Cheyenne, the eternal (if aging) rock star, learns that his father, an Auschwitz survivor, had wanted to track down his Nazi tormentor from the camp, who is probably still alive and living somewhere in America. With his lipstick, candyfloss hair, reading glasses
and wheely-suitcase, Cheyenne is probably the world’s least-likely Nazi hunter – but this lost cause sparks a flame in the somewhat lost star. Despite his thin, weedy voice and an almost befuddled way of expressing himself, Cheyenne actually has plenty of depth of character to face up to the unlikely challenge of finding his father’s tormentor. (Of course, all Dubs will know that any middle-aged man who can wander around our city, sporting bright lipstick and clad in The Cureinspired fashion, would have to be made of stern stuff, indeed.) So begins a road movie, of sorts, as Cheyenne, rock star and Nazi-hunter, sets off to find an old Nazi and, in the process, find himself. (I feel contractually obliged to bung that one in there, folks.) However, as he drifts through one rural back-
water after another, standing out like a visitor from another planet, one question remains – what will Cheyenne do if he ever catches up with his quarry? Will he be very mean, or will he be Nazi? It’s a pretty interesting film, if slightly curious in its subject matter. I mean, who would have thought that aging stars, Americana, a road trip movie, Auschwitz, extensive David Byrne (he of Talking Heads fame) music, Sean Penn and, um, Blanchardstown Shopping Centre would make a great film? However, luckily, this witches’ brew works, with Penn managing to tone down his usual Pennisms to create a memorable character. Although we’ve seen much of this kind of content matter before, we’ve never seen it quite like this, making this The Place to spend an entertaining 110 minutes.
23 February 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 25
GazetteGAMING GAMING Bytesandpieces Adding to controversial Heights with another interesting chapter I’VE written here before about Zynga’s controversial Apple IOS title, Dream Heights, and how it’s been accused in several quarters of the gaming press of too closely resembling another (and superior) title, Tiny Tower. Well, in the continuing drama around this particular release, the latest chapter in Dream Heights’ life has seen the US iTunes store listing glowing reviews of the title, which is fair enough – until you note that some of the five-star rave reviews come from the people who created it.
With “cloning” of smash-hit titles proving an increasingly contentious issue in the gaming industry (and with apps particularly susceptible to this emerging trend), it can be difficult to spot the original among almost identical titles – especially if they clone its graphics and gameplay
When cloning around is no laughing matter SHANE DILLON
DID you know that, while games titles – and, rarely, characters, or other key components – may be patented and registered for protection under various copyright laws, the content itself is rarely given legal protection? Incredibly, while gaming standalone titles, and franchises, continue to generate vast amounts of money for the lucky top-tier of developers and publishers, there tends to be very little legal protection for such intellectual property (IP). If I were to announce to Gazette readers that I was about to write a children’s book about, say, a teenage magician called “Harold Porter”, who wears contact lenses, and who has a z-shaped scar on his forehead, and that my masterpiece would be entitled, Harold Porter And The Philosophical Rock, I might expect
to receive a number of legal letters, somewhat sharpish, from a variety of impressive law firms. If, however, I wished to, say, make a smartphonebased, touchscreen-driven, physics-based game, where I catapulted a number of birds towards flimsy structures made of wood, glass and rock, principally with the aim of crushing some cyancoloured boars (and called my game, say, Annoyed Birds), there would be nothing to stop me. Indeed, apart from keeping an eye on this very topic and how it’s regularly reported in a variety of international gaming websites and publications, I, myself, have seen a number of such “cloned” titles, available to buy or download on a leading app digital distribution portal. Typically, the “developer” of such titles insist that, no, they’re not blatantly
copying an original title, but are, instead, merely adding a similar title to an established genre. In this manner, I’ve seen leading games’ assets (principally, instantlyrecognisable characters, models, and textures) repackaged into someone else’s game, which tended to have identical gameplay and structures.
Wild West In this kind of anything-goes landscape, cloned titles – in the form of Harold Porter – is free to pop his head up in this Wild West that much, if not most, gaming IP inhabits, legally speaking. So, where are the sherriffs for this bold – but wild – lawless landscape, where Harold Porter and his gang are free to ride into town, grab whatever original IP they find, and then ride off into the sunset, ready to flog “their” wares from the back of a digital distribution
wagon? (I apologise for all of these Western cliches, but they seem to fit my points, perfectly!) Well, while legal eagles have yet to properly police this largely lawless landscape in the same manner as publishing, music and cinema are protected, its inhabitants – gamers – are slowly but surely beginning to form posses, and bring vocal, frontier justice to bear on any questionable actions by Porter, and pals. Where such members of Porter’s Gang ride into town (principally, hitching themselves near the front of gaming sections on distribution hubs), and once they’ve been spotted, “vigilantes” – or, irate gamers, to you and me – start h a m mering up the equivalent of
“wanted” posters, in the form of highly-critical reviews, low grades and, most damningly of all, explicitly referring to the original title from whence the clone sprang. While gamers are perfectly happy to engage in largely similar content, and games that are largely similar, they don’t take very kindly to the thought that Game B has been, basically, cloned from Game A – and especially when those behind Game B claim their innocence, despite any strong evidence to the contrary. It’ll be interesting to see how the industry shapes up to the increasing threat of blatantly cloned titles, as new media platforms bring the issue increasingly to the fore, and will, potentially, railroad Porter’s Gang out of town in the near future ...
Descriptions As reported online, John Lerma, senior user experience designer, described it as “awesome”, while Matthew Ott, Zynga producer, wrote: “Dream Heights is beautiful, fun and polished. Another must-play from Zynga!” However, when it comes to selling apps and games online, the industry, and gamers, frown on what, to many, seems like a system open to abuse, if developers start praising their own work in a commercially-driven sector. Balancing out such glowing reviews, gamers have been busy leaving a wall of one-star reviews for Dream Heights, adding another interesting chapter to this tale ...
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26 LUCAN GAZETTE 23 February 2012
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GazetteSPORT
ALL ROUND THE WORLD Documentary focuses on the Irish experience and GAA abroad: Page 29
SWIMMING: YEAR OF OLYMPIC PREPARATION SEES NAC SET FOR PRESTIGIOUS VISITORS
Aquatic Centre powers into the new year sport@gazettegroup.com
AS IT faces into one of it’s busiest and biggest years ever, the National Aquatic Centre has partnered with Electric Ireland to help power it through 2012. This year is set to be a very busy one, with the NAC due to host preOlympic international teams, such as the USA Synchronised Swimming Squad, Olympic Water Polo Champions, Hun-
gary, and also the UK water polo squad as they prepare for the London games in summer. Similarly, Electric Ireland will also share a keen interest in the build-up to games as Energy Partner to Ireland’s Olympic team. Last year, the NAC broke the 800,000 mark for the first time and became Ireland’s third most popular fee-paying attraction, with an overall 46% growth in numbers over the past five years.
As part of the 12month contract Electric Ireland will supply all the Dublin-based centre electricity requirements. Energy efficiency is high on the centre’s agenda and their efforts were recently recognised when they were shortlisted for the Sustainable Energy Awards. With the help of Electric Ireland the National Aquatic Centre is making great progress in reducing its energy requirements.
Some young swimmers help cap the announcement of the NAC’s partnership with Electric Ireland
The centre, which is the premier venue for competitive swimming, diving and water polo in Ireland, has facilities which include a 50-metre pool, diving pool with Olympic diving boards and major leisure water park. It successfully hosted the swimming events of the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games
and the European shortcourse championships. David Conway, director of operations for the National Aquatic Centre, said: “We have enjoyed working with Electric Ireland over the last three years and are delighted with the energy efficiency we have managed to achieve. We look forward to another
mutually beneficial year together in 2012.” He added: “It is the policy of the National Aquatic Centre not only to look for first-class suppliers, but also to ensure that we get the most competitive pricing possible and best value for money.” Announcing the contract, Electric Ireland’s
customer relationship manager, Alan Daisey, said: “We are extremely pleased to be continuing to work with the centre; we have developed a highly flexible, innovative contract which will help drive cost-savings and energy efficiency for the National Aquatic Centre in the months to come.”
28 LUCAN GAZETTE 23 February 2012
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
Fionnuala hails the Great Ireland Run THE SPAR Great Ireland Run held a Love to Run flash lap last week with Fionnuala Britton, the European Cross-Country Champion, on hand to lead the event. Runners, joggers and walkers joined Fionnuala on her lunch break to complete a lap around Merrion Square Park (approximately 1100 metres) to show their love for running, and to promote this year’s Great Ireland Run, which will take place this year in the Phoenix Park on Sunday, April 15. Ireland’s fastest growing 10km running event will be broadcast live on RTE. For more information on the 2012 event and how to enter, see www.greatirelandrun. org.
Ireland back on form after shock defeat IRELAND’S cricketers, who featured local heroes Kevin O’Brien and George Dockrell, reversed their shock defeat to Kenya in Mombasa last weekend with a 117-run win over their hosts in the second of their World Cup qualifying matches against
the African team. Ed Joyce helped to restore Irish nerves after he scored 88 runs in the 117-run win, the boys in green having started poorly to stand at 76-4 before Joyce stepped in, Ireland eventually finishing their innings on 237-9 from 50 overs. Ireland now face the Kenyans in a trio of Twenty20 matches before they travel to South Africa for their training camp.
LADIES’ FOOTBALL: DUBLIN DENIED BY OLD ENEMIES AT HOME
Dublin ladies’ footballers suffered their first reverse of the Division 1 campaign against Cork last weekend
Cork pip the Jackies NFL DIVISION 1 Dublin Cork
0-8 1-8
sport@gazettegroup.com
DUBLIN’S great run at the start of their 2012 Bord Gais Energy Division 1 league campaign came to an end last weekend when the visit of Cork to Pairc Ui Murchu saw the Rebelettes claim a decisive win over the Jackies that puts them at the top of the table. The sides could barely be separated throughout the 60 minutes, but a goal from Cork’s second-half sub, Doireann O’Sullivan, proved decisive and was the difference between the sides come the final whistle. The first score of the game, a pointed free by Cork Sports Woman of the Year, Juliet Murphy,
came in 10th minute of the first half. Cork, who had a huge percentage of possession, appeared to have left their kicking boots on the team bus, much to the relief of the Dublin defence and management. Cork’s second score was another free, this time converted by three-time All-Star, Nollaig Cleary. Foxrock Cabinteely for ward Ciara Murphy was the first on the scoreboard for Dublin with a well-taken point from just outside the 20. Amy McGuinness, who was introduced into the game for corner forward Orlaith Egan, slotted over a free to bring the sides level. With eight minutes remaining in the first half, Dublin had begun to get the measure of the Rebe-
lettes, and their running game was starting to ask questions of the Cork half-back line. A penetrating Dublin move up the pitch, which had originated in front of the Dublin full-back line via midfield, resulted in Dublin’s Sinead Aherne being taken down in a combined tackle by Anne Marie Walsh and Deirdre O’Reilly. Up stepped Aherne to take the penalty, but Cork keeper, Elaine Harte, managed to get down quickly and blocked the shot. The save gave her team new momentum and they broke rapidly down field, the drive resulting in another Cork free which was once more converted by Murphy. On the restart, Dublin were quickly on the scoreboard with a Niamh
McEvoy point. The St Sylvester’s star had been moved from her named midfield berth to the half forward line, and was showing well for the ball and was giving the midfield pairing of Goldrick and Finnegan a target to aim for. At this stage, the game ebbed and flowed, with both sides exchanging points and the lead. On target for Cork again was Murphy and Cleary, while Dublin’s Aherne and McGuinness where on target for the Metropolitans, sharing their team’s free-taking duties. The game’s only goal came from O’Sullivan, whose speculative shot on goal while running through the heart of the defence foiled the Dublin keeper. To Dublin’s credit
they continued to battle hard, running time and time again at the Cork defence desperately seeking that elusive goal, while Cork defended in large numbers in front of Harte’s goal. With Dublin pressing hard, Cork relented and conceded a free which Aherne duly pointed, bringing Dublin to within three points of the six times league champions. But time caught up on the Sky Blues when referee McEnery blew his whistle to signal the end of this entertaining encounter. Eamonn Ryan’s team remain the only division one team with a 100% record, and Cork would be many pundits favourites even at this stage of the competition to retain their league crown come May.
23 February 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 29
in association with
Once upon a time in America
FastSport
The experience of the Irish abroad in sport formed Sign up for RugbyForce and help your local club the basis for a fascinating documentary, as STEPHEN FINDLATER found when he spoke to its director THE player drain caused by the recession has been one of the bitter problems for the GAA in the past few years with clubs losing stalwarts to Australia, Canada and the US. On the flip side, that drain has been acting as a link to the homeland for many Irish abroad. It is a connection that Ballinteer man, Cillian O’Chonchur, delicately helped to portray in the documentary, An Exile’s home in the Bronx, which airs throughout February on Setanta Ireland. It follows the fortunes of the 2011 New York side and their struggles to prepare for a Connacht senior football championship date with Roscommon, hoping for a maiden win. The result did not materialise but, along the journey, O’Chonchur, and directors Niall and Steven McCann, amassed over 80 hours of footage from
within the camp, with heart-felt and personal interviews with the players. O’Chonchur, a sports journalist, came up with the original premise whilst
they’d be back in Ireland’,” he told GazetteSport. “Although it’s based around the game with Roscommon, it hopefully comes across as not a straight, sports documen-
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‘These guys [in the documentary] had to leave Ireland for New York while, at the same time, trying to cling onto their only bit of Irishness’
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on a Fulbright scholarship in New York and says the story told became very much that of the players and their situations. “The New York team, itself, would not have any major stars in it. Dan Doona played minor and U-21 for Kerry and a few of them did similar but didn’t pursue it. One of them sums it up: ‘If football was their main goal,
tary, but as one which sees these guys have to leave Ireland for New York while at the same time trying to cling on to their only bit of Irishness.” For some, this has meant 11 years away from home and, for Waterford man Aidan Power, nine years since seeing his father, having left Ireland to pursue work. To add context, the likes
NY manager Seamus Sweeney puts the side through their paces
of Kevin Moran, Darragh O Se and Jack O’Connor lend their words on the American GAA experience, providing a context of the passion that exists in the Irish community. Indeed, Moran suggested it was a seminal moment in his career, saying it was there he “got the love for football back”, going on to win two AllIrelands before signing for Manchester United. But Moran and O Se’s experiences came from their position as “weekend players” unlike the central characters around Gaelic Park “There have been so many players to play over in the US, it was very hard to break it down. You can’t everything in it. “Moran and O Se; they were weekend players. One of the things we left was that Dara got banned for six months because he wasn’t authorised to play over there. As it happened, there was a meeting and it was lessened as there were so many players who had played over there without being sanctioned. “For O Se, he’d go over for three days. It was far more common when there was more money around, mainly for the league finals, so it could have been a who’s who of players over there.” O’Conchur – whose brother Padraic lines out for Ballinteer St John’s senior footballers – had initially looked at making
the documentary in 2010, centering on the American side’s much closer tussle with Galway. He and another Irish masters’ student at New York University initially put together a piece for a college television project, building a rapport with the players and team management and approached Setanta with a view to broadcasting it. The Irish sports channel backed the premise, and the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland came through with funding for the project in March of 2011. With the transitive nature of the New York team, O’Chonchur and this team set about putting together a new story but the essence remained in place. “We didn’t use any of what we shot the first year. As it happened, the score was much closer in 2010 when they almost beat Galway, so we basically started afresh because some of the players weren’t there. The players we wanted to follow had stuck around. “I came back to Ireland in May [2010] and started writing up a treatment and then found out last March we got the funding so, from then until two weeks ago, it was pretty much all I eat, dreamed and slept. There’s no better way to learn something than doing everything yourself.”
SOME of Dublin’s top local club rugby players lined out last week in their Ulster Bank League strips at Old Wesley RFC – flanked by Irish rugby stars, Sean O’Brien, Sean Cronin and Shane Jennings – to help to launch Ulster Bank’s RugbyForce, an initiative which provides rugby clubs with support to renovate their club and upgrade their facilities. RugbyForce encourages rugby supporters, their friends and families to give something back to their local community and rugby club by volunteering to undertake renovations to clubhouses and grounds. Every registered club will be provided with online guidance and tools, and the first 25 clubs will also receive an increased support pack that includes €250 worth of materials, t-shirts for volunteers and an Ulster Bank RugbyForce plaque. Four lucky clubs (one from each province) will be selected for a very special makeover, which will see them awarded with €5,000 of goods and resources to use during their RugbyForce makeover weekend. Clubs must register for Ulster Bank RugbyForce online by April 13. Ulster Bank introduced the RugbyForce programme last season, after joining forces with the IRFU to become their official Community Partner. Ireland and Munster rugby legend, Alan Quinlan, is calling on clubs across Ireland to enter the programme. “With the success of the Irish national team and the outstanding development of our provincial sides in recent years, support for Irish rugby has seen a dramatic increase. The focus on young player development is at an all-time high and, thankfully, this professional development has been fed into rugby clubs across the country. Every week, exceptionally talented players line-out for their clubs in crunching showdowns.” Speaking about RugbyForce, John Hussey, IRFU President, said: “I would encourage all rugby clubs to enter the Ulster Bank RugbyForce initiative. It is a unique way of providing an added incentive for helping clubs maintain their facilities. It also provides a fantastic opportunity to bring members, players and supporters together to improve their local club.” For more information, log on to www. ulsterbank.com/rugby
30 LUCAN GAZETTE 23 February 2012
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
HURLING: SARSFIELDS STAR RETAINS CAPTAINCY OF DUBLIN
12th Lock Games club hosting more events 12TH LOCK Community Games club are holding their next activity night at Adamstown Educate Together primary school this Friday, February 24 from 6.30 to 8pm. The club host activities, including table tennis and basketball every second Friday, and the club will have teams participating in the key Dublin Community Games events in the coming months. Any child living the catchment area of Adamstown, Finnstown and Hansted are welcome to attend, and more information is available by contacting twelfthlockcg@gmail.com.
Lucan Sarsfields’ Johnny McCaffrey was one of the key players involved in Dublin’s successes in 2011 and retains the captaincy
Daly keeps faith with Johnny I sport@gazettegroup.com
LUCAN Sarsfields’ star Johnny McCaffrey has been confirmed as the Dublin senior hurling captain for the 2012 season, hurling manager Anthony Daly announced last week. Speaking to the press last week, Daly said that he saw that there is an attitude in the camp that he hopes will return even more success than the hurlers saw in 2011, when they annexed the national league title for the first time in 72 years and reached the semi-final of the All-Ireland championships.
“I can tell from the boys the work ethos is every bit as good as last year, if not a bit stronger. What I’d like to think is that they’ve got a taste of success and can drive on and want more of it. So far, so good. We’ll know more on Sunday evening,” said Daly. It is an assessment that also comes from within the camp. Speaking to GazetteSport recently, Kilmacud Crokes’ Ryan O’Dwyer, stated that there was a new determination with the Sky Blues that had not been present before. “We’re looking forward to 2012. We’re back training hard since the start of
Towers on top: Big win opens Clon side’s AIB Cup run CLONDALKIN’S Round Towers’ senior footballers claimed an impressive and emphatic victory in the AIB Cup last weekend when they defeated near-neighbours, St Pat’s, Palmerstown, by 5-8 to 0-3 at Glenauline Park. Towers will play their next group game against Cuala, who were defeated 1-12 to 0-7 by Ballinteer St John’s, at the Clondalkin Community Centre on March 4, while Pat’s face St Anne’s at home on the same date. Picture: Ted Keane
January. Things are looking bright.” Off the back of the defeat against his home county at the second last hurdle, the Dubs are looking to go at least one better this year, and O’Dwyer was assured about the approach they would be taking under Anthony Daly. “We are looking to the future. We need to get down and train harder than we have before. If everything we were doing before was good enough, we would be All-Ireland champions, and we would not need to worry about it.” When asked what was
the key component for the Dubs in reaching and claiming the Liam McCarthy trophy in 2012, O’Dwyer was in no doubt about what it would take. “Belief, I think, is the key. We had belief this year, but, maybe at the back of our minds, we were wondering if we belonged at that level. “But we have seen that we can compete with the best. We ran Tipp very close in the semi-final; they were defending AllIreland champions. We beat Kilkenny in the league final. We know we are there or thereabouts, but we need be consistent.
“Ninety percent in hurling is about mentality, 10% is physical. Everyone is going out and doing the same training, and everyone is about the same skill and fitness level. It’s the six inches between your ears where the game is won and lost. “I’ve been part of a lot of teams, at college, for my club, in Tipperary. But the unity that is there is something I haven’t experienced before, and I’m privileged to be part of it. “We have a bond that will get us the extra percentage that we need to win and take it all the way.”
23 February 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 31
in association with
CAMOGIE: SARSFIELDS WIN IN GORMANSTOWN
CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS MEMBERSHIP is now due and can be
year is to Killeen on Saturday, April
paid online at our new-look web-
21. Contact Michael O’Grady for
site, www.lucansarsfields.ie or at
more details.
the clubhouse bar.
Our nurseries for boys and girls
Well done to Rob Twomey, Paul
born in 2005, 2006 and 2007 are
Rigney, Donal Flannery and Ciaran
every Saturday at 1.30pm on our
Dowling, who have been picked for
all-weather pitch at the 12th Lock.
the Dublin North Colleges Hurling team. There will be a night of traditional
This is your child’s chance to be coached by Dublin senior hurling captain, Johnny McCaffrey.
music for our social initiative group
Opening times for our club shop
in the bar this Saturday from 9pm.
are Tuesday and Thursday from
Table quiz run by girls’ football
7.30 to 8.30pm, and Saturdays from
section is on Wednesday, February 29.
10.30 to 11.30am. This week’s Lotto numbers were 1,
Set dancing classes every
9, 13 and 23. There was no winner.
Wednesday from 8.30 to 10pm in the
Next week’s jackpot will be €13,500.
function room of the clubhouse. No experience required. Our first golf society outing this
Hugh McGonigle’s team will be in charge next Sunday when our sponsor will be Newcastle Golf Centre.
ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN Lucan Sarsfields camogie side closed out their tournament with an impressive victory
Lucan girls end on a high in camogie tie MURPHY CUP Lucan Sarsfields Kilteal B
10-0 0-0
I sport@gazettegroup.com
LUCAN Sarsfields’ U-11 side finished the Gormanstown U-12 camogie tournament on a high after they ran up a 10-0 to no score victory over Kiteal B. The Lucan girls came out with a strong lineup, with Rachel Feighery in goal, Aoife Byrne and Hannah Brady in defence, Laura Quinn and Caoimhe Morris in midfield and an attacking pairing of Aoife Mahon and Siofra Byrne. A strong subs bench included Tara Mooney, Laura Lawless and Heather Kenny. Lucan, fresh from a confidence-boosting win against the tournament leaders, Kilteal A, last week, went about the task with gusto. They attacked their opponent’s goals from the throw-in, with Laura Quinn quickly dominat-
ing the midfield and linking up well with Aoife Mahon in the forward line, scoring four goals between them. Mahon, in turn, showed composure up front to make the decision to shoot or pass to her attacking partner, Siofra Byrne. Ten minutes into the game, they took the lead as they piled on the pressure. Their patience paid off with the deadlock being broken by a powerful shot from Aoife Mahon. Lucan then defended well, with strong performances from Hannah Brady and Aoife Byrne and a good save from Rachel Feighery in goal preventing Kilteal getting back into the game. A second goal from Aoife Mahon brought confidence to the Lucan side as they settled into their natural attacking game. The remaining 15 minutes saw Laura Lawless introduced to the attack
and scoring with a great snap shot from the right corner forward position, Tara Mooney slotting into midfield and getting a well-deserved goal from a strong, long-range shot. A final shuffle of positions saw Caoimhe Morris back in midfield and getting her name on the score sheet with what is now becoming a customary long-range shot. Hannah Brady taken from her normal full back position and Rachel Feighery from goals were put in to lead the attack for the last minutes of the game and both contributed. A great shot from the centre from Brady and Feighery coming in from a left to right position and powering a shot home. Elsewhere, Lucan Sarsfields’ Junior A footballers secured their first point in the Murphy Cup with a last-gasp equalising point away to Kilmacud Crokes on Sunday. Although fortunate to escape with a draw in the end, Lucan
will look back on this game as one they let slip, leading by five points at half-time following two first-half goals. But they got sloppy in the second half and missed several point-scoring chances that would have put the game out of Crokes reach. Crokes kept pressing and got a crucial goal mid-way through the second half after a mix-up in the Lucan defence. Sensing their chance Crokes piled on the pressure and scored three consecutive pointed frees to put them one point up and looking like they were going to steal a win with the game in injury time. Lucan mounted one final attack straight from the kick-out after Crokes pointed and were rewarded with a good equalising point from Colin O’Donnell. This turned out to be the last action of the game as the final whistle sounded straight from the kick-out, ending 2-6 to 1-9.
It doesn’t get much better for our
egrine’s at 11am, while juniors at
Roisi Brady with her Scor Na nOg
home to St Mark’s, also at 11am.
recitation, Dancing Round My Hand-
Club’s AGM takes place on Wednes-
bag. Following her wins in Dublin and
day, February 29 in the clubhouse
Leinster, she captured the All-Ire-
at 8pm. Nominations for committee
land title in Castlebar on Saturday
positions and motions / recomme-
last. From all at St Pat’s, congratu-
dations must be returned to club
lations and well done.
secretary, Pauline Mooney, by this
In juvenile football, our U-8s, 9s
Wednesday.
and 10s played Lucan Sarsfields,
Congratulations to Grainne Quinn
Foxrock/GPM, and St Mark’s, while
on her nomination as vice-captain
there were wins for our 12s and 16s
of the Dublin senior camogie team.
over Ballinteer St John’s and Naomh Barrog, but losses for the 11s, 13s and 14s to James Gaels, Naomh Mearnog and Trinity Gaels.
To visit our website, log on to www. stpatricksgaa.ie Lotto: Numbers drawn were 4, 27, 28 and 30. There was no winner of
Senior footballers away in first
the €8,400 jackpot. Match any three
league match this Sunday to St Per-
numbers winner was Olivia O’Brien.
GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN ALL three mens’ teams were in
L adies’ tr aining con tinues at
action last weekend in the cup com-
Parkwest on Monda y, Lucan on
petitions.
Wednesday and Saturday morning
The Intermediates had a good
in Westmanstown at 9am.
away win over St Brigid’s, 0-12 to
The blitz leagues continue with
1-3, but both junior sides lost at
Westmanstown Gaels U-14s earn-
home.
ing a comfortable win over Good
The Junior As lost to Templeogue
Counsel; the U-12s lost narrowly to
Synge St , while junior Bs were
Cuala; the U-8s scored a victory,
defeated by St Kevin’s/Killian’s.
while the U-10s lost one/won one
Next Sunday sees the star t of
against Kilmacud Crokes.
the leagues with the intermediates
The U-12 and U-15 girls’ football
take the field against St Jude’s at
teams continue pre-season train-
Tymon North at 10.30am and junior
ing.
As also away to St Finbarrs at John Paul Park at 11am.
Visit www.westmanstowngaels.ie for more information.
Training continues on Tuesday
The annual subscription fee (€60
and Thursday in Westmanstown at
for first child and €30 thereafter)
7.30pm.
is now due.
Follow GazetteSport on Facebook and Twitter, and at www.gazettegroup.com
ALL OF YOUR LUCAN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31
HERE’S JOHNNY: Sarsfields’ tyro retains Dublin captaincy for 2012 season P30
EXILES IN THE BRONX: Life as part of the New York GAA panel P29
GazetteSPORT
Fergal O’Brien will be hoping to progress to the final stages of the PTC championship finals when he plays Joe Perry in Galway in March
FEBRUARY 23, 2012
Fergal focused on year for success I sport@gazettegroup.com
FERGAL O’Brien is getting ready to take part in the final top-ranking phase of the premier Players’ Tour Championship (PTC) event next month. The Lucan snooker star finished the regular stage of the tournament ranked 19th in the top 24 players, out of a total of 563 players eligible to take part. He will face England’s Joe Perry in the seeding stage of the competition on Wednesday, March 14, and hopes to join the last 16 in the tournament when it plays out over four days in Galway. O’Brien sees his involvement in the tournament as having been hugely beneficial to his progress as a player in the last year, as he explained when he spoke to GazetteSport last week. “I have had a good season to get here, the way the tournament is structured - it rewards current form, and I scored over 8,000 points over the course of the season. Sean Murphy, who won last
year, didn’t reach the last 24, so it’s necessary to be consistent in order to succeed. “The PTC has revitalised my career, playing so much and so often. Before, in previous years and never mind where you were in the top 16, you would prepare for a tournament and before you know it, you were waiting four, five or six weeks before the next ranking event you were involved in. “This way, there is a tournament every week or every other week, and it’s great. If you play well, you want to play next week, or if you lose, you’re right back out there with the bit between your teeth and some good practice before the next championship match.” The Lucan potter had just returned from defeat in the Welsh Open first round against Judd Trump, who went on to progress to the quarter-finals of the tournament before being beaten by Ronnie O’Sullivan. The tournament itself was eventully won by China’s Ding Junhui who defeated Mark
Selby 9-6 in the final in Newport. “It was disappointing to lose, as I didn’t take my chances, but I was happy to reach the first round out of the qualifying rounds of the tournament. “On Saturday, I was 3-1 down to Mike Dunne, and I would have gladly taken anything out of that position, and I played three good frames to reach the first round proper. It was good to be playing again on the main table at the venue, that felt good in itself.” O’Brien is looking forward to being a part of Barry Hearn’s set-up when the PTC rolls around for its second year in the late summer. “There were so many gaps between the big ranking events, the PTC has added more playing opportunities. It’s much better than before as there could be months between me picking up a cue. “If I hit a run of form, it pays off and I can build on it. It’s easier to get sharper and get the rhythms going.”