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MAY 10, 2012

LUCAN • PALMERSTOWN • CELBRIDGE • LEIXLIP • ADAMSTOWN • DODSBORO • LIFFEY VALLEY • BALLYOWEN

INSIDE: Stepping forward for Barretstown in a Citywest fun walk P8-9

TREATY: Senator Darragh O’Brien

on why FF wants a Yes vote See Page 6

St Joey’s glory: Joint winners at national awards MINISTER for children, and local

Aussie Rules: Local player in historic match in Scotland Page 32

politician, Frances Fitzgerald, joined Elaine Nevin, national director, ECO-UNESCO, to present students of St Joseph’s Community College with an award at the UNESCO Young Environmentalist awards, held recently in the Mansion House.

The St Joey’s girls were named as joint winners of the Junior ECO-Art and Design Award for their project, Eco-Warriors: Our Action/The Reaction.

Full Story on Page 7

Rugby: Memorial event a huge success at Barnhall Page 30

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ..................... 2 BUSINESS .................... 19 MOTORS ....................... 20 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Citywest to benefit from 150 new jobs An Taoiseach hails German software firm’s expansion

I PAUL HOSFORD

A GERMAN software company, SAP, will create 150 new jobs in Citywest in the coming months, with An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny calling it a vote of confidence in the Irish economy.

Among the new jobs

announced for Ireland are a variety of positions requiring people with various skillsets and qualifications in the fields of computer science, engineering, physics, maths, information systems, languages, business and sales.

An Taoiseach said: “SAP is the largest software company

in Europe, and the thirdlargest software company in the world, and its decision to further expand its Irish operations demonstrates the real value of an economically-stable business environment and Ireland’s position in Europe.”

Full Story on Page 4

2 LUCAN GAZETTE 10 May 2012

HOUSEHOLD CHARGE: LESS THAN HALF HAVE PAID

DINNER Ghana Union of Ireland hold dinner dance

Higgins urges locals to pay tax A LOCAL councillor has said that she is “concerned” that less than 50% of homes in South Dublin registered for the Household Charge.

The charge, which had a deadline of March 31, was hotly-debated across the country, with numbers countrywide sitting just below 900,000 in mid-April, with a national average of roughly 57%.

Fine Gael councillor Emer Higgins said that she was concerned about the South Dublin numbers.

“I was very concerned to learn that only 38,370 homeowners in South Dublin County Council have registered to pay the household charge. It is estimated that there are over 80,000 homes in the county meaning that the compliance rate is below 50% and well below the national average,” said Cllr Emer Higgins.

Cllr Higgins said that even with waiver numbers taken in, it is impossible to know where the noncompliance comes from.

“Over 10,000 homes in South Dublin County Council have received waivers to the household

charge. In response to a question I asked at a recent council meeting management detailed the exemptions throughout the County and stated that it was not going to be possible to get a breakdown of compliance rates other than at County level,” continued Cllr Higgins.

“I am very concerned at the low uptake rate on this fee and am worried that people who have registered for the charge will continue to pay year after year while others refuse to. This situation would be hugely unfair to those who have paid and I am writing to the Minister to ask him to protect registered homeowners as much as possible going forward,” continued Cllr Higgins, who said the charge was a necessary burden.

“Unfortunately, this charge is a necessary part of our EU/IMF bailout agreement which Fianna Fail signed us up to. The collections from this charge will go towards covering the basics of services. If we want to continue to have the level of local services we expect, we have to be willing to contribute,” she said.

Nigerian ambassador to Ireland, Felix Y Pwol, and Ghana High CommissionGerry McGuire, Fingal County Council mayor

er, Prof Kwaku Danso-Boafo and (below) Richard and Jacqueline Mtow

attended the event to show his support

Ahenfie Drummer Group

Celebrating a special union HE Carlton Hotel in Tyrrelstown hosted a very special event recently when it hosted the Ghana Union Ireland Inauguration and Dinner Dance.

The event celebrated all things African and a large number of African ambassadors were in attendance with the guest of honour, His Excellency, Prof

T

Erica Birch-Abban and guest artist, Twi Teacher

Kwaku Danso-Boafo (Ghana High Commissioner UK/Ireland) visiting.

Guests enjoyed some great food and drink and were entertained with some fantastic music. Fingal Mayor, Cllr Gerry McGuire (Lab) was also an honoured guest.

Dr Nana Yao with children

Aba, Cassandra, Sharon, Gizzella, Emmanuella and Gabriella

10 May 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 3

MUSIC Twins are hoping for a big month

Jedward call on locals to put on green cape LOCAL boys Jedward are urging locals to put on the green cape in aid of the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

The boys have released Put the Green Cape On as their unofficial Euro 2012 charity single. The lads themselves have no worries about sending the song to the Euros, given that it is already a hit on the continent.

The song is a reworking of the 2011 Eurovision entry Lipstick, with RTE 2fm dj Colm Hayes penning the lyrics.

The video is a starstudded affair, with Paul

McGrath, Bill O’Herlihy, Miriam O’Callaghan and Keith Duffy among others popping up.

“It’s been such great fun working with Jedward and all the celebrities who gave up their time to make the video. I really enjoyed writing the song; it took me back to my old radio days, and hopefully it will raise a lot of money for the ISPCC. Come on Ireland, we can win it... maybe,” Hayes said.

Jedward added: “We were really happy when 2fm contacted us and told us that Colm Hayes had written really cool new lyrics for Lipstick. The

song is awesome.

“It’s great to be involved with the ISPCC, and the Irish football team. It’s the perfect song for Ireland to go to Europe with as all the other countries already know Lipstick so they will be able to sing along with it.

“We want all our fans to go out and buy it and pick up a cape in Elverys, and support the ISPCC. Get your green capes on Jed Fans.”

The official Jedward Green Capes are on sale in all Elverys stores nationwide at €4.99 each.

Meanwhile, the Lucan twins have been made

Jedward with RTE 2fm dj Colm Hayes, who re-wrote the lyrics to their song Lipstick for their Euro 2012 song

third favourites to claim the Eurovision crown with their second attempt at the contest.

The whacky duo are available at 9/1 and already have been given huge support. Boylesports have reported that the boys will cost them €50,000 if they win and that figure is expected to reach six figures closer to

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the date.

Jedward’s main competition comes from Sweden who are the short-priced favourites at 2/1. They have a pop-track which is expected to prove popular on the European stage.

The Italian contenders are the only other competition for the twins, who have been installed at 7/1.

“Jedward have been promoting their song across Europe, hitting the number one spot in some countries. They proved popular last year but are more polished this time around. We are certainly getting nervous, as a win for the boys will clean us out,” commented Nicola McGeady, Boylesports PR Spokesperson.

POETRY

Local poet has new book FORMER Lucan resident, Dr John Murphy, is having his book of poetry, The Book of Water, published by Salmon Poetry and the book will be launched at the end of May in the Unitarian Church, St Stephen’s Green.

He was shortlisted twice for the Hennessy/ Sunday Tribune/Independent New Irish Writer of the year prize. He was also shortlisted for the Bridport Prize and specially commended in the Patrick Kavanagh Award.

He has won prizes in the Boyle Arts Festival poetry competition and in the UK in the international Blue Nose poetry competition.

His poetry has been published in numerous poetry journals including Poetry Ireland Review, Cyphers, Mimesis, Pulsar, Revival and Ambit.

4 LUCAN GAZETTE 10 May 2012

TREATY

Bruton to address meeting FORMER Taoiseach John Bruton (FG) will address a public meeting on the Fiscal Compact Treaty in Lucan this Monday, May 14.

The meeting, hosted by Deputy Derek Keating (FG), will take place in Scoil Aine Naofa beside St Patrick’s Church, Esker.

The meeting will begin at 8pm and will also feature the CEO of a local print company, Colin Culliton.

“This is a crucial time for our country and this referendum is an important issue.

“I am arranging this meeting to ensure every voter has an opportunity to clarify facts with an expert, John Bruton,” said Deputy Keating.

“My wish is that every voter who has questions will come to a public information meeting and join the debate and become informed with the facts.

“Lucan has a proud tradition and record in voting but the younger voters should be encouraged to attend,” said Keating.

JOBS

Software firm boosts employment

SAP creates 150 new jobs at Citywest I PAUL HOSFORD

Taoiseach Enda Kenny was in Citywest to announce the job creation by SAP

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AN Taoiseach Enda Kenny was on hand in Citywest last week, as German software firm SAP announced 150 new jobs at their offices.

Making the announcement, Taoiseach Kenny said that the jobs, along with 100 jobs in the firm’s plant in Galway, marked a vote of confidence in the Irish economy.

“The decision by SAP to create 250 new, highquality jobs in Dublin and Galway is most welcome news and contributes to Ireland’s growing reputation as a global hub for the digital industry. SAP is the largest software company in Europe and the third largest software company in the world and its decision to further expand its Irish operations demonstrates the real value of an economically stable business environment and Ireland’s position in Europe when it comes to attracting the overseas operations of major technology companies like SAP. I wish SAP every success with both these expansions and offer the continued support of the Irish Government into the future.”

Liam Ryan, managing director at SAP Ireland said: “SAP’s Irish operations have been highly successful since we first established a facility here in 1997. We now employ 1,200 people between our Dublin and Galway operations and as a result of the expansions being announced today will add a further 250 people to our staff here over the next three years.

“The announcement is all about gearing SAP up for the company’s next wave of technology innovation to meet business needs in the areas of cloud computing, mobile applications and high performing database technology. Ireland has provided SAP with a highly-skilled and innovative workforce and I would like to express my gratitude to all our staff and management here along with the Irish Government and IDA Ireland for the significant role they all play in making SAP Ireland a success.”

We l c o m i n g t h e announcement, Barry O’Leary, CEO of IDA Ireland, who are backing the move, said, “SAP is a key player in the cluster of world-leading technol-

ogy companies based in Ireland. 70% of the world economy’s transactions touch a SAP system in some way, shape or form and the company’s investment in services, sales and support activities in Galway and Dublin will build considerable new capabilities in their respective teams. This expansion drive will help support major growth in customer demand in the emerging technology areas of cloud computing, mobile applications and high performing database technology.

IDA Ireland has worked closely with SAP since the original decision to establish operations in Ireland in 1997. I would like to congratulate Liam Ryan and his team on the excellent progress they have made in Ireland.”

Among the 250 new jobs announced today are a variety of positions requiring people with various skillsets and qualifications in the fields of computer science, engineering, physics, maths, information systems, languages, business and sales.

To learn more about the vacancies, visit the SAP careers website at: www. sap.com/careers/Ireland.

Council rounds up loose horses

I PAUL HOSFORD

SOUTH Dublin County Council rounded up a number of loose horses in the Lucan area last month.

The seizures of the animals came in the same area where 16 horses were seized between September and November last year, when council staff acted on a request from local Fine Gael councillor William Lavelle.

Lavelle said that there had been increased numbers of loose horses in the area recently.

“In recent weeks I have received new

complaints about the increased number of horses on these lands and a fresh increase in horse activity in Finnstown and adjoining residential areas. On foot of these complaints, the council, acting on my request, have initiated new proceedings under the Control of Horses Act, to seek removal of unlicensed horses from lands between the 12th Lock and Polly Hops.

“The council have also acted to support local gardai to round-up five loose horses at Adamstown Link Road on April 4 and three loose horses at Newcastle Road on April 18,” he said.

10 May 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 5

WASTE: COUNCIL STAFF ‘VIGILANT’ SINCE BIN WAIVER REMOVAL

AWARDS

Fix your street is a winner

Dumping has not gone up I PAUL HOSFORD news@gazettegroup.com

action as required.

“Additionally, reports of illegal dumping received through the Customer Contact System will be monitored and all council outdoor staff generally are being requested to report any illegal dumping so that targeted responses can be delivered to specific areas where required,” said the council.

“The statistics above do not show any increases coinciding with the end of the waivers while staff reports and anecdotal evidence do not show any marked increases as yet.

“It is anticipated that the vast majority of former waiver recipients are law abiding and will make suitable arrangements to recycle and dispose of their waste appropriately,” said the report.

High achiever: Aine is rewarded for her Leaving Cert results by UCD FORMER COLAISTE COIS LIFE student, Áine Ní Chianáin, a

Lucan native, was commended by UCD for her achievement in her leaving certificate.

The UCD High Achievers Awards are given to those students, in first year, who have achieved 540 points or more in their Leaving Cert.

Aine, who was in the 2011 Nore class in Cois Life, is pictured here with the certificate which she was awarded with at a special ceremony in Belfield.

www.

THERE has been no noticeable increase in illegal dumping in South Dublin since bin waivers were removed, the council has said.

Labour Councillor Eamon Tuffy asked the Lucan Area Committee “if the Litter Wardens and Cleansing Section have been receiving increasing numbers of reports of illegal dumping in the Lucan Electoral Area in the period from March 1 until now?”

Responding, council management said that January had the year’s high number for cleansing, illegal dumping and litter warden servicing.

January had 521 such incidents, while February and March had 437 and 447 respectively, with

figures up until April 12 showing that there were 169 reports, on course to be less than previous months.

In their response, council management said that, with the end of the waivers, their staff were extra vigilant.

“A leaflet advising on ‘How to Manage Household Waste’ has been circulated to all households in the county recently.

“As with previous amendments to the waiver scheme (eg reduction in number of tags provided per year, and reducing black bin lifts to accommodate brown bin lifts) the council will ensure that all staff involved in the cleansing and enforcement areas remain vigilant in assessing any potential impact on the level of illegal dumping in the county and be positioned to take

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THE Fix Your Street initiative, piloted by South Dublin County Council has scooped three e-Government awards at a ceremony in Dublin Castle.

Mayor Caitriona Jones (Lab) was on hand to collect the awards in the Open Source, People’s Choice and Judges Special Merit categories, saying that she was “extremely pleased and proud to accept the awards on behalf of South Dublin County Council”.

Fixyourstreet is a publicly accessible web site with associated mobile technologies where non emergency issues such as street lighting, drainage, graffiti, illegal dumping, road and footpath maintenance can be reported.

The reporting of issues to Fixyourstreet are accepted via the web site,www.fixyourstreet.ie, through email, on Twitter and coming shortly mobile phone apps.

6 LUCAN GAZETTE 10 May 2012

TREATY Pact ‘will not cure all our economic woes’

Voting Yes provides a more secure future

SENATOR DARRAGH O’BRIEN (FF) explains why his party believes the Stability Treaty will give Ireland more growth opportunities and employment THE vote on May 31 on the Stability Treaty is extremely important for Dublin, for Ireland and for Europe. The treaty sets out a new framework for countries so that the crisis of budget deficits and high debt can’t threaten the Eurozone in the future.

I will be honest and say that the treaty will not cure all our economic woes of today, but it will definitely allow Dublin and Ireland to have a more secure foundation

for our future. By voting yes, we will have access to the funds needed for our public services at a lower interest rate.

We will be sending a message that Irish people want to have a strong voice at the European table when growth opportunities and investment in job creation are being discussed. We need to maintain strong ties and influence in Europe and make sure our voices are heard and we will do this by voting Yes. There has been much

debate in my party about this treaty and what it means for Ireland and Europe.

At the Fianna Fail Ard Fheis, 50 years ago in 1962, Sean Lemass told delegates that the alternative to joining would be that “Ireland would be an isolated unit on the fringe of a dynamic European confederation”. The last thing Ireland needs to do today is to retreat to the fringes of Europe.

The European Union will play a central role in Ireland’s recovery.

That is why Fianna Fail is vigorously campaigning for a Yes vote. This fiscal crisis has been a crisis of globalisation. It has crossed borders and many other countries, not just Ireland, are facing unprecedented pressures in controlling budgets and raising the money to fund public services.

A crisis of this massive scale requires collaboration, co-operation and a joined up approach to achieving solutions amongst the countries of Europe.

Fianna Fail has consistently been calling for three principal issues to be addressed: changing the mandate of the European Central Bank; increasing the central funding of the EU; and federalising financial regulation.

If the euro is to be saved and if it is to retain democratic legitimacy, these measures must be taken up and Fianna Fail will continue to press this.

Many of the problems facing people in Ireland are shared by other countries. The budgets in capital cities around Europe, like Dublin, are under huge pressure. It makes sense, therefore, that the best way to tackle them is for countries to work together. This treaty reinforces the rules to make sure that budgets are better controlled so that major debt is avoided.

In return for agreeing these controls, countries will find it easier to raise money to fund public services, like the ones we benefit from in the city every day, our buses, gardai, schools and hospitals. It provides a more secure future for our country.

Senator Darragh O’Brien (FF): “EU will play central role in Ireland’s recovery”

In fact, had this new emergency funding system and other new policies been in place years ago Ireland would never have required a bail-out.

Its support programme is based entirely on targets that were already proposed by the then Irish government, and Ireland’s debt is due to top out at a level of less than that of Italy today or Greece after all their adjustments.

In the 2009, referendum on the revised Lisbon proposal, public support for a Yes vote

actually rose during the campaign. This was because we worked hard to bring a positive message directly to people.

That referendum changed the nature of EU debate in Ireland and this is what is reflected in the current large majority indicating an intention to vote Yes, including 70% of my party’s voters.

One of the key reasons for Ireland’s attractiveness is its export platform to the rest of the EU. Today nearly 100,000 people are directly employed in over 600

US firms in Ireland. US companies have a $190 billion cumulative stock of investments in Irishbased operations. I really believe that Ireland’s full and active membership in the EU is critical for stability and investment across Dublin.

I believe Dublin needs a strong Yes vote on May 31 to secure stability and economic recovery.

Darragh O’Brien Fianna Fail Senator for Dublin North and Seanad Spokesperson on Finance

10 May 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 7

AWARDS Local school students rewarded for their environmental work

St Joseph’s eco-warriors claim UNESCO prize GREEN teens from St Joseph’s College in Lucan were named winners at the 13th annual ECOUNESCO Awards.

Their Eco-Warriors: Our Action, The Reaction won an award at the Young Environmentalist Finalists Showcase and Awards Ceremony held

in the Round Room of the Mansion House, in Dublin on Tuesday.

In attendance were over 600 young people and special guests Frances Fitzgerald, Minister for Children Youth Affairs, Andrew Montague, Lord Mayor of Dublin and the youthful master of cer-

emonies, Stephen Byrne, RTÉ presenter. The group from St Joseph’s College Summerhill implemented a successful wormery and waste reduction project in their school. Thanks to their winning worms and inspiring awareness raising activities, this group is reducing waste in their

school, supplying their organic garden with compost and setting an excellent environmental example for their peers and the public.

Along with the overall winners, over 20 other awards were presented including category winners in Biodiversity, Water,

ECO-Community Development, ECO-Enterprise, ECO-Art and Design and Climate Change.

Special awards were presented to ECOUNESCO Clubs, to Super junior groups (10-12yrs), to ECO-Leaders (teachers and youth leaders) and to youth and community

organisations through the ECO-Sustainability Award. With young people from all over Ireland and Northern Ireland, the event featured 60 lucky groups who were selected for the finals from almost 4,000 young people throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland at

regional ‘Dragon’s Den’ style ECO-Dens. Each group showcased innovative elements of their environmental action projects which included fun and friendly nature trails; upcycled fashion, fracking research, eco-cartoons, and original environmental songs.

Esker safety must be improved – Cllr

PEDESTRIAN safety at Esker Educate Together must be improved, a local councillor has claimed.

Cllr William Lavelle, Fine Gael councillor for Lucan, this week called for measures to improve road safety in the vicinity of the school, which moved into new temporary premises at Adamstown Avenue last September.

Cllr Lavelle tabled a motion at this week’s meeting of the Lucan Area Committee on foot of a submission and petition presented to him by the school’s Parent Teacher Association.

He said that he believed the move was a priority.

“In recent years I have been a consist-

Current band leader Orla Vesey with Cial Hillery from Lucan, the previous leader

ORCHESTRA: END OF YEAR CONCERT FOR LVO

Sweet music from Liffey Valley band THE ever-popular Liffey Valley Orchestra (LVO) recently held their yearend concert in NUI Maynooth’s Aula Maxima.

Popular music from television and films were performed by the 70-piece orchestra which entertained the capacity audience.

Pieces included Second Waltz by Shostakovich and made famous

by Andre Riu, Khachaturian’s Adagio from Spartacus which was the Onedin Line theme, Grand March from Aida, I Dreamed A Dream – Les Miserables and Susan Boyle, Somewhere from West Side Story, both of which were sung on the day by Nicole Connolly

from Celbridge who also plays cello with LVO. The Muppet Show, The Bare Necessities and Burt Bacharach numbers showed the wide and varied approach taken by the orchestra. Accompanying the LVO on the day were the Winter Jazzmen and Girls.

With their own inimitable renditions of uptempo numbers and an eclectic range of instruments – piano, trumpet, sax, violin, banjo, guitar and voice, they thrilled the audience.

Based in Celbridge and 21 years old now, the LVO started life in 1991 when founder Claire Condron brought together her own pupils to play in a fledg-

ling orchestra setting.

The group will celebrate their 21st anniversary this year and a concert will take place towards the end of 2012.

A week earlier, LVO welcomed the Blow the Dust Off Your Trumpet Orchestra from The National Concert Hall to share year-end concert pieces in an afternoon recital.

Blow The Dust Off Your Trumpet is a project developed by The National Concert Hall’s Learn and Explore programme and was launched in May 2009 as part of the Bealtaine Festival of Creativity in Older Age. It is designed to encourage people, who

once played instruments, to take them out of their cases, dust them off, join fellow musicians in forming an orchestra and aims to empower older people to rise to the artistic and physical challenges of playing their instruments once again.

This particular orchestra now boasts over 55 members who travel from all over Ireland once a month, throughout the year, for rehearsals in The National Concert Hall.

For more information on the orchestra, see www.LiffeyValleyOrchestra.com, audition details for children and adults can also be found on the website.

ent champion for improved road safety and pedestrian safety around our local schools. Keeping kids safe while going to and from school must remain a priority.

“Earlier this week I visited Esker Educate Together and I witnessed at first hand some of the road safety issues which are of such concern to parents and staff.

“Among the problems highlighted were incomplete and non-continuous footpaths which as a result meant that children have to walk out on the main road. Other issues raised relate to dangerous parking and the lack of safe crossing points,” said Cllr Lavelle.

8 LUCAN GAZETTE 10 May 2012

CHARITY Lots of walkers, joggers, runners (and grannies

Lauren McKenna, Andrew Murphy and Vanessa White

Susie Hickman, Sarah Duffy and Grainne Coyle. Pictures: Ian Fleming

It was a fun family affair for Aidan Montague and his Lisa Burke, first woman to the finish line

sons, Alex and Jack

ITH 5,000 people working in the Citywest Business Campus, hopes were high that many would step forward for this year’s Citywest Fun Walk and, indeed, many campus workers joined with locals to take part.

The weather was gloomy but the mood was sunny and upbeat, with all involved keen to have a fun time and help support children’s charity Barretstown, the beneficiary of the

day’s fundraising, with the event’s motto, Be A Lunchtime Hero, spurring everyone on to support the great cause, with Radio Nova also helping to create a positive beat for the day.

With a route that wound through the campus, it was a straightforward event for all, with many walkers and casual joggers having fun alongside some professional runners, all keen to help support Barretstown.

Stepping forward for Barretstown W

10 May 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 9

with pushchairs) ‘race’ around Citywest Business Campus

And they’re off ... Participants with all levels of energy and fitness supported the venture

Suzie O’Connell and Naouel Sghaore are presented with t-shirts prior to the race

A Radio Nova crew helped support the event, with “bike rider” Anita Mernagh joined by Tara Boland, Lauren

by Ciara Sullen, Barretstown

Dundon, Anna Hickey, John Quinn, Paul Doyle, Andy Carpenter, Micheal Crowley and Darren Graham

Jim Scholfield and Adrian Lynam, among the first four to finish the race

Rachel Joy and Binda Nail have some ice cream to help cool down after their run

Step by step ... Finally at the finish line after an invigorating run

10 LUCAN GAZETTE 10 May 2012

FAMILIES The Gazette visits the fun annual Star Wars event

Paige Cernohous and friend

John Thompson and John Donaldson try to agree who gets to meet local Star Wars fans first. Pictures: Ian Fleming

Welcome Invasion takes over Citywest ITYWEST Hotel extended an out-of-this-world welcome to some unusual visitors recently when it hosted Star Wars: (Emerald Garrison) Invasion 2012.

After hitching a ride to the sector, several Star Wars characters dropped out of orbit to call to the busy venue,

C

where lots of West Dubliners, and Star Wars fans from across the city, county and country, were on hand to welcome the stellar guests, Normally the best of enemies, Stormtroopers rubbed shoulders with Confederacy troops as they met fans, while sand people swapped Tatoo-

AT-AT’s no place to park your Walker

ine’s dusty plains for the grand, soft Irish mist that lingered in the area, yet which couldn’t dampen the fans’ enthusiasm for the fun event. With everything from a Jedi training school to AT-AT Walkers and other familiar vehicles, props and outfits, the whole event was a very welcome invasion.

John Donaldson vows to protect Jake O’Reilly from Jackie Rech

Ruairi Walsh with Sean and Diarmuid Crowe and Keith and Ciara Walsh

any Empire spies

10 May 2012 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 10 May 2012

GazetteContacts

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SNAPSHOT The local stories of the day

Summer Wedding Open Day THE Castle Arch Hotel in Trim will host its Summer Wedding Open Day on Sunday, May 13, from 2 to 5pm.

The Castle Arch is one of the leading wedding venues in County Meath and this event will be one of their best open day’s with the hotel set up as it would be on the bride and groom’s special day.

Experience The management team have years of experience with weddings and will be on hand to guide you through the planning of your special day.

T heir hallmark is attention to detail at all times by experienced staff in the art of creating a perfect wedding.

The Castle Arch loves

weddings and this is obvious from the attentive service you receive from the initial enquiry through to departure the next morning after your perfect wedding.

The Emmet Suite is the hotel’s dedicated wedding suite and will be set up with beautiful chair covers and a choice of sashes, as well as luxurious floral arrangements on each table and a fairylight backdrop.

Civil wedding The hotel is also registered for civil wedding ceremonies and the Arch Suite will be decorated as it would be on the special day with linen chair covers, flowers and candles.

Contact the hotel directly for more information on packages.

Contact Ruth Traynor o n 0 4 6 - 9 4 31516 o r Ruth@cusackhotels. com

The Emmet Suite

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10 May 2012 GAZETTE 13

EVENT Charity lunch at Brasserie 15

Encouraging healthy eating

Bressie’s boost to mum’s support centre I LAURA WEBB

lwebb@gazettegroup.com

HE has fast become a household name after judging, and mentoring the winning act of the Voice of Ireland, but his new found fame hasn’t inflated his ego, as he uses his celebrity status to fundraise for charity.

Earlier this year, Bressie, aka Niall Breslin, was named the ambassador of LARCC (Lakelands Area Retreat and Cancer Centre) a cancer support centre located just outside his hometown of Mullingar in Co Westmeath, where his mum, Mandy, is the director.

To help raise funds for the centre, he hosted a charity lunch in Brasserie 15 in Castleknock, Dublin 15 last week.

His best friend helped get the venue and he brought the entertainment, with thanks to his protegee, the Voice of Ireland winner, Pat Byrne.

Speaking to the Gazette this week, he talked about his involvement in the charity and what’s next for the singer/songwriter and producer.

Respected

“ I t ’s a ve r y we l l known national charity.

It is very well respected.

A lot of cancer charities deal with the physical aspect of cancer; this is looking more at the emotional and psychological aspect of it. It is a residential treatment centre where parents can go for a week with the family, and that

INITIATIVE: PROMOTING FRUIT AND VEGETABLES

Bressie with mum Mandy. Picture: Ania Sherlock

is unique – there is nowhere in the whole country where you can do that.

“The HSE has cut funding by 50-60% and a lot of people don’t realise there is an emotional side to cancer, so people don’t really dedicate money to it.

“There was no way I was going to let it lose out. I thought I could bring something to it, but then the show [The Voice] started and then I knew I could really bring something to it and it has.

“We are starting with

this event, and then there will be a big event in the summer and we are not talking about trying to keep one open, we are talking about opening others – that is where I am going with it,” he said.

Joining Bressie at the lunch was fellow Voice judge, Brian Kennedy, who said he was only too happy to be part of the charity event.

Although he won’t be on our screens every Sunday night with the Voice, Bressie is still ver y much involved

in it as he gets ready to work with his winning act Pat Byrne, and also help his other act, Conor Quinn.

“Pat hasn’t even got a day off yet. He asked about it, but I quickly told him – you’re in the music business now, there is no such thing,” he joked. “ We h ave s t a r t e d writing for the album for Pat. Then I will work with Conor and then work on my own. It’s a busy time.”

For further information on LARCC log onto www.larcc.ie

STUDENTS across the country will be kept busy throughout May as Agri Aware’s Incredible Edibles Healthy Eating Month challenges students to record their daily intake of potatoes, fruit and vegetables.

Launched in Family Farm, which was developed by Agri Aware and Dublin Zoo, Minister of State Shane McEntee (FG), was on hand to commence the monthlong initiative which will see students note their consumption of these foods in a special healthy eating diary as part of the overall Incredible Edibles initiative.

With childhood obesity levels in Ireland reaching epidemic proportions, Agri Aware’s Incredible Edibles is a healthy eating initiative that encourages primary school children to eat more potatoes, fruit and vegetables. The project, now in its fourth year, is delivered by Agri Aware and is supported

by Bord Bia, the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) and the Irish horticulture industry.

The sponsors of the Incredible Edibles project will deliver healthy eating awareness activities, demonstrations and food tastings as part of Incredible

Edibles Healthy Eating month at Family Farm, Dublin Zoo during May. Students nationwide are collecting the Incredible Edibles tokens and/ or the Bord Bia Quality Mark from Irish potatoes, fruit and vegetables to win some amazing prizes for their class. The public are encouraged to help out by collecting the tokens and/or the Quality Mark from Irish potatoes, fruit and vegetables in support of their local schools participating in the project.

Speaking at the launch, Minister McEntee commented: “In light of the current levels of obesity, especially in our younger population, and the overall need to increase fruit and vegetable consumption, I am very pleased that the Incredible Edibles has evolved to have a stronger emphasis on the need to increase consumption; I see Healthy Eating Month as a key part of this process.”

Encouraging a positive attitude to healthy eating, Bernard Donohue, chairman of Agri Aware, said: “Incredible Edibles Healthy Eating month is a great opportunity for parents and teachers to communicate the importance of healthy eating to children.”

14 GAZETTE 10 May 2012

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: YOUR CAT’S DIET MAY NEED AN OVERHAUL AS SHE GETS OLDER

Helping kitty stay fit and healthy as she gets older H yes, it’s a cool for cats kinda time right now because it seems readers just can’t get enough of our feline friends… well, if your calls to the shelter are anything to go by.

So, this week, I

A

thought I’d continue my, ahem, CAT-alogue of kitty columns and delve a little into the world of the senior feline and her specific dietary needs and requirements.

You see as Kitty gets older, her nutritional needs will start to

change. She may have a slower metabolism and gain a few pounds, she may become less active and wish to stay indoors more therefore to help her stay fit and healthy into her senior years, you, as her parent, will need to give her diet an overhaul.

However, I must add, always check with your vet before you change your pet’s diet, especially if there are specific health problems that need to be addressed.

Levels of Activity Some cats go out and hunt and are pretty active, others are pampered and lie around the house all day.

It makes sense then that the less active Kitty may require 10% less maintenance energy.

T his is also quite dependent on the weather. For example, keeping the body warm or cooling it down will use up more energy, so keep in touch with your vet in the event the temperature plummets and the same goes if we ever manage to get a heatwave… although the latter hardly ever occurs in Ireland.

As your cat gets older, her nutritional needs will start to change

Health Status If Kitty’s had surgery or an illness, she may have increased nutritional requirements in order to help her heal. Again, keep in contact with your vet who will best advise regarding periods of illness and recovery.

Portion Control is Important Work with your vet to ascertain which senior cat food provides the best nutritional balance for Kitty. To help her maintain her recommended weight, measure out the portions as per manufacturer’s/veterinarian’s instructions.

Dividing the Spoils Usually it’s recommended you feed your cat two meals per day using portion control.

Divide the amount suggested as per your vet or food manufacturer advice and allocate them approximately eight hours apart.

As cats require taurine, (an amino acid important to maintain normal heart function, reproduction and vision) and… here’s a little tip; most mammals can make taurine, but cats can’t, it’s important to feed Kitty animal-based protein which means a meat-based diet in order

to meet her nutritional requirements.

Remember you may need to adjust intake according to your cat’s level of activity or your vet’s recommendations.

Temperature A senior cat’s sense of smell may diminish slightly, so try to offer her food at room temperature to make it easier for her to be attracted to the aroma.

Water Only Forget the saucer of milk, it’s bad for Kitty.

Cats cannot process enough lactase in order to break down lactose

in milk, therefore allowing Kitty to drink milk or milk-based products will cause her to vomit or experience diarrhoea.

Give water only and make sure you encourage her to drink it often, as some senior cats may be prone to medical problems such as urinary tract infections and an increased water intake may reduce the risk of this. It will also reduce the risk of dehydration.

So, following the all clear from your vet, make sure Kitty gets enough gentle exercise in the form of some play with toys or a little potter around the garden while you’re tending to the plants.

The above is written as a guideline only, so if you’ve got a senior cat, why not pop her along to your vet today for a quick check up because with his/her help, there’s no reason why you and Kitty can’t enjoy the golden years together and optimise her health and wellbeing.

For more information,

log onto www.dspca.ie or contact your vet or email me at miriam.kerins@ dspca.ie

10 May 2012 GAZETTE 15

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GazetteGROWING GROWING

In association with

TASTE: NO NEED TO ROOT AROUND FOR A GREAT TREAT

Can’t beet this THIS month, we will be harvesting the first of our new-season beetroot.

Okay, so they will be no bigger than golf balls, and will have been grown in the polytunnel – but they will be all the tastier and more tender as a result.

I was turned off beetroot as a kid because the only way I ever saw it presented was pickled and floating in vinegar – fresh beetroot plucked straight from the soil and baked to retain all the goodness is a different matter: earthy, tender, wonderful and incredibly good for you.

Interesting to note that we also still have about half a dozen beetroot from last year in a box of sand in the shed – they were sown in July, lifted for storage in October,

and we’ve been eating a couple a week since. They have held up well.

They are an altogether hardier affair than the new season ones – about the size of large oranges, and not quite as tender, but they still taste pretty good and make a useful addition to salads (raw, grated).

To my mind, this brings home why beetroot is the perfect GIY crop – it can be difficult to source fresh in the supermarket, it’s easy to grow, doesn’t demand much space and, with a little planning, it can be enjoyed fresh all year round.

By the way, if you are heading to Bloom in the Phoenix Park (May 31 to June 4), come and visit us at the GIY Zone.

We will be showing people how to sow seeds and generally spreading GIY joy. We’re also aiming to break a Guinness World Record for the most people sowing seedlings at the one time, and creating a giant seedling mosaic!

Tip of the week: Best way to sow beetroot Beetroot likes a deep, sandy soil, manured the previous winter. Apply organic fertiliser about a week before sowing.

Germination is in about 10 days, and you will have roots to eat in about three months.

I always sow beetroot in module trays and then carefully transplant them about a month after sowing.

They should be planted four inches apart, in rows about 12 inches apart.

Bear in mind that a beetroot seed is actually a “cluster” of up to five seeds, so even if you sow just one seed, you may end up with a small cluster of plants – thin them out to just one seedling.

Sow every two weeks from April until July (for a continuous supply of young beets), although you can start even earlier (March) in a greenhouse or polytunnel.

Sow another batch in July, which will be ready to lift in October for winter storage.

Michael Kelly is a

freelance journalist, author and founder of GIY Ireland

Recipe of the Week BEETROOT, walnuts and goat’s cheese make ideal bedfellows for a salad. This delicious salad serves four.

Ingredients: • 12-15 baby beetroot • Two TBSP lemon juice • 80ml extra virgin olive oil • One TSP Dijon mustard • 70g baby spinach leaves and some small beetroot leaves • A bunch of flat-leaf parsley leaves, roughly chopped • 100g soft goat’s cheese, crumbled • 75g toasted walnuts TWIST off the leaves from the beetroot (don’t cut, this causes them to bleed), leaving about two inches

of stalk attached to the beet. Wash them well and pat dry. Place them in a tinfoil parcel, and bake in a hot (220C) oven for about 35-45 minutes.

They will be very tender when cooked – pierce with a knife to check. Take a beetroot and rinse under a cold tap (so you can handle it), then quickly remove the skin by rubbing with your fingers – if it is well cooked, it should come off easily.

Repeat with all the beetroot and cut them into quarters. Whisk the

lemon juice, olive oil and mustard together in a small bowl. Season to taste.

Place the spinach, beetroot leaves and chopped parsley in a large bowl. Add half the dressing and toss well.

Divide among four serving plates (or leave in the large bowl, if desired), then scatter with beetroot, goat’s cheese and toasted walnuts.

Garnish the salad with some parsley, drizzle with the remaining dressing and serve immediately.

DublinGazetteNewspapers Advertising Sales Professionals Dublin Gazette Newspapers is Dublin’s fastest growing community weekly regional publisher, with 8 titles covering the M50 from Swords to Dun Laoghaire.

We are currently looking to recruit: We are now seeking experienced media sales executives to work in our advertising dept in our Lucan head office on a number of Dublin Gazette titles. Experience in newspaper advertising sales is preferable.

Full clean driving license and own car required; fluent written and oral English essential. Excellent package on offer to suitable candidates.

If you can work on your own initiative within a team environment, are motivated, enthusiastic with an excellent work ethic, please send your cv to: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com

16 GAZETTE 10 May 2012

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY The essential

A designer gift from Lancome

LANCOME announces its June 2012 designer gift collaboration with luxury design house, Jenny Packham.

This is one of Lancome’s most exciting designer collaborations to date. The style of the make-up purse has a vintage feel to it, featuring romantic floral designs created exclusively by de Gournay for the Jenny Packham Lancome bag.

From June 2012, Lancome customers can own this unique bag by simply purchasing two Lancome products (one to be skincare) from a Lancome counter.

Available nationwide from June 8, 2012, whilst stocks last.

et’s face it, the sooner we go on holidays to catch a few rays from that shiny ball in the sky, known as THE SUN, the sooner faces will be smiling again.

The travel season is among us and Gazette Beauty is on a mini mission to give readers an idea of some of the essential products that should take up space in that 20kg bag.

Forget packing luggage to the brim with flip flops and sarongs, you know you won’t use, think about items that you can’t live without on a sun holiday.

Helping to take the stress out of travel this summer is Burt’s Bees and its mini kits.

The kits have mini-

L

Enjoy the summer holiday season but take care while in the sun with an appropriate sun screen to prevent burning

ature versions of all it’s full size favourites with Tips and Toes Kit, Head to Toe, Radiance Healthy Glow and the Essential Burt’s Bee Kit – our favourite.

This essential Burt’s Bee’s kit (€16.99) contains soap bark and chamomile deep cleansing cream, hand cream, nourishing milk and honey lotion, coconut foot cream and beeswax lip balm.

Of these, the lip balm is a must to keep with you at all times to avoid dry lips while sun bathing.

T he coconut foot cream gives great relief after a day’s walking, or a night’s dancing and the coconut scent boosts that happy holiday feeling – available at health

stores and pharmacies nationwide.

Take care while in the sun, and so it’s not unusual that we say sun factor is a MUST for everyone.

Don’t let skin burn – red is not a sun-kissed colour, it’s sun-kissed pain. Apply sun factor as often as you can.

If money doesn’t matter, Piz Buin is a favourite here as it is great for sensitive and dry skin, and works on building a glowing natural tan.

Saving pennies? Then try out Lidl’s very own range from Cien. The range is available in various sun protection factors to suit every need from factor 8 to factor 50, kids to adults, it has the lot.

Here’s something eve-

10 May 2012 GAZETTE 17

Edited by Laura Webb

products for a spell in the sun tecting hair from everyday wear and tear, a must when out and about this summer – Aussie hair products are available at Boots nationwide.

Rub away your stress and worries with the new Spa Collection Absolute Calm Massage Oil, €8/100ml from Marks & Spencer.

This non-greasy massage oil has been specially formulated with sweet almond oil to condition and nourish the skin whilst a soothing blend of essential oils of mandarin, chamomile and lavender help relax and unwind.

This is perfect for trying to unwind after a day sightseeing.

Also available in this range is the Spa Collection Absolute Calm Bath Essence, €5.50/300ml and Spa Collection Absolute Calm Pillow Mist, €5.50/50ml.

Now obviously we are not saying take all these essentials with you, because if you do, that 20kg will be full before you get a chance to put in any summer shorts, so just take in our advice and then find what best suits your top five travel essentials.

Help take the stress out of travel with Essential Burt’s Bees Kit

gazette

group

.com

Dead Sea Skin Magik Brushing Salts (€17.95).

This is a mix of Dead Sea salts and coconut oil, perfect for pre beach exfoliation and a great treatment for cellulite, also available at Nelson’s Homeopathic Dispensary.

Take care of your hair when away. The Aussie hair care range, not only smells fantastic but works wonders for dry/ damaged hair.

Tried and tested by Gazette beauties, the range recommended this summer is the Miracle Moist Range.

This range makes hair soft, shiny and fabulously conditioned.

It brings moisture to dry damaged hair, which is often a result of sun exposure.

Miracle Moist Shampoo is used to lock moisture in all day long.

After that, use Miracle Moist Conditioner for some serious moisturising. But the one thing we advise not to leave behind is its Miracle Hair Insurance.

This leave-in conditioner is a little miracle for detangling hair by conditioning and nourishing it, while also pro-

www.

ryone should know – sun protection factor (SPF) refers to how long you can stay in the sun without getting burned.

The higher the factor the longer you can stay out without burning. The Cien range is priced between €2.99 and €4.99.

Another essential is, of course, after sun. One suggestion from Gazette Beauty for a good after sun, essential for soothing is Green People After Sun (€15.99). This product is made with cooling peppermint and helps to maintain a healthy tan – available at Nelson’s Homeopathic Dispensary, Duke St, Dublin 2.

Travelling can take its toll on some stomachs and so a travel sickness preventative is worth bringing along, helping you enjoy your summer rather than loath it because of travel sickness.

Our recommendation is, also available from Nelson’s, is Travella, a homeopathic preparation to aid with symptoms of travel sickness, this costs €7.25.

Exfoliate before heading to the beach with

All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away Lidl’s very own range from Cien has factors to suit every need

18 GAZETTE 10 May 2012

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods SHE’S been called one of the most controversial women in rock, and I think Courtney Love whole-heartedly deserves that crown.

Brawls, court cases, drugs...this woman has stared the usual rock cliches in the face (and in some cases, punched it), but only she could continue the on-again off-again relationship with her fella, 18 years after his death.

Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain died in 1994 and the rights to his image were in

the hands of his wife.

Although tumultuous, their relationship was one that seemed to survive all sorts of challenges...until Courtney needed a quick buck, it seems.

It’s emerged the Hole singer gave up her rights to Cobain’s name, likeness and appearance in exchange for €2.1m.

Surely, she wouldn’t be so shallow...

I hear you ask, where is she getting the money? Oh, that’d be from her teenage daughter, Frances Bean

Cobain’s, trust fund. So, Courtney gets the loan of a couple of million, but until she can pay it back, will no longer be head of the company that looks after the Cobain cashflow: Frances Bean is.

The 19-year-old is taking over her 47-year-old mother’s job and giving her a loan? Talk about role reversal.

In fairness to Courtney, she’s doing her best to earn a few quid in the meantime. Her first art show was launched in New York last week.

It featured drawings and lyrics by the Hole frontwoman and the piece de resistance: a designer gown which she claimed was to be worn to her marriage to Ed Norton that never happened.

Now, there’s a woman with an appropriate surname - what’s not to Love?

Adam Yauch of the Beastie Boys had an influence on a generation of music fans

All our love and respect to the end I ROB HEIGH

WHEN it was announced last week that Beastie Boy Adam Yauch had died after a three-year battle against cancer, the wave of genuine shock and sadness that passed through the world of music was palpable.

Although the portents were not good when he was unable to attend the band’s induction to the Rock N Roll Hall Of Fame in April, there was still hope that this essential part of one of the most influential and beloved bands of the past three decades would beat the disease that afflicted him.

Yauch’s gravelly rasp counterpointed Diamond’s pally vibe and Horowitz’s amped craziness on the mic. Their skills combined to create a unique bouillabaisse – a Beastie Boys record was instantly recognisable, not only because of their rhyme styles, but because you felt that the way their personalities were right there on the track.

Every record, which never sold less than a

million copies on release, was a new adventure in sound – the Beasties took the influences of their world, mashing up Japanese pop, Jamaican dub, old-school hip-hop, soul and hard rock riffs and made something uniquely their ow n.

At the same time, they wrote some of the most memorable, quotable, referential and – don’t forget or underestimate this – fun rhymes in rap.

The fact that the band seemed like a band of brothers, transmitting a genuine enjoyment in what they did, never appearing po-faced or serious, even in the face of serious illness in the last three years, defines why the Beastie Boys meant so much to so many people. They loved what they did, and they wanted you to be a part of the party they fought for the right to throw.

You were invited, and welcome – the door was open and theirs was not a closed world of gangsta mores or outrageous bling that you had no access to.

They opened a whole new world of music to

this impressionable teen – the Beasties were the link to Run-DMC, to Public Enemy, to NWA, and on, and on… Not only to their contemporaries, but also to the artists they sampled on their tracks, too innumerable to mention, especially on their best album, Paul’s Boutique.

Creating some of the most memorable moments in music video history – Intergalactic, Body Movin’, So What’cha Want – was another of Yauch’s talents that was most immediately on display in the public domain, but his activism and charitable work for Tibetan freedom and the recovery of New York in the wake of 9/11 were other aspects of the work he did, which underlined his humanity and humanitarianism.

There has been nothing but the Beasties finest moments on the playlist since last Friday, and they will always be one of of my most dearly loved, and missed, musical heroes.

T hank you, Boys.

Thank you, Adam.

Namaste.

10 May 2012 GAZETTE 19

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Tracy Leonard, DAS Academy in Lucan and Rush

Helping people achieve their dreams

MORTGAGE RELIEF Q – We bought my first house in 2004, bought the second in 2010, as the family grew. We could not sell the first, as it was in negative equity and rented it out in 2010, losing the mortgage interest relief. Should we still qualify after recent changes ? The rent doesn’t cover the mortgage capital and interest repayments.

Colin – Terenure A - Measures brought into effect last Budget would have meant that, had you stayed in your first house, you would now be enjoying 30% mortgage interest relief until 2017 ! Unfortunately, moving meant that you lost out on being a first-time buyer and, therefore, precludes you from receiving the new life changes announced in the last Budget. At

INTERNATIONAL singer and actress Tracy Leonard runs a new stage school in Lucan and Rush, known as DAS Academy (Dancing, Acting, Singing Academy).

Tracy trained at the Gaiety School of Acting, Dublin and the Royal Academy of Music, London on its world renowned Musical Theatre Course and has worked professionally in Ireland, the UK and on a cruise ship as the main singer for Broadway style shows on the US high seas.

Tracy loves to perform on stage and has done so since a young age, she now wants to help new up-and-coming actors, singers and dancers achieve their dreams or even just enjoy it as something to help them gain more confidence in themselves in everyday life.

International singer and actress Tracy Leonard runs a new stage school in Lucan and Rush

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

A singer.

What was your first job?

Farmer’s daughter and then helping run a video shop when I was 15. I didn’t want to get muddy anymore!

soon as you started renting your former home.

There are so many people who were forced to rent out their homes because of their inability to maintain repayments, but did not stop the TRS. This could come back to haunt them. Presumably, you are also making the usual offsets against the rental income tax liability: • 75% of the mortgage interest • Service charges (including block insurance) • Repairs and maintenance • 12.5% of furniture and fixtures (keep receipts) for each of the first eight years • PRTB fees • Property management fees • Contents insurance if contents are your own The NPPR and household charges are not allowable for offsetting against your rental income tax

What part of your working day do you “delegate”?

I leave the dancing to Thomas…we work on production pieces together, but when it comes to choreography, I have a cuppa…

What sport do you follow?

I like rugby.

And your first pay check?

I remember wanting these runners and thought if I work for two weeks, I’ll be able to get them. It made me feel great to be able to get them myself.

What sport can you play?

I used to play camogie and Gaelic football, but now I just walk a lot and run around after my toddler…keeps me fit to say the least!

When did you start your present job?

August 2011 with the stage school and singing forever it seems. Before that for weddings, shows and events.

What is your guilty music, TV or movie pleasure?

I just love Sky Plus. I get to watch it all after baby is in bed and I can wind down with the soap stories, a nice cuppa and some choccy.

What is the best thing about your job?

The kids. Seeing them achieve a dance move they couldn’t do before or hitting a note that seemed out of reach, not being shy to read out or “act” in front of their peers.

least you stopped the TRS (tax relief at source) as

What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/iPad? Everything from Heads Shoulders Knees and Toes to Rhianna for DAS Academy classes.

Who do you follow on Twitter/ Facebook?

Just friends and family really, as my husband is American, so I keep in touch with all my friends and in-laws that way. It’s great for sharing photos and stories.

Describe your dream meal?

Cooked oysters and then a big, thick medium-rare steak and cheesy potatoes.

Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

On my son and my husband – online.

That way it’s a surprise when it arrives. I’m not a complete martyr though, I do get myself stuff too.

How many pairs of shoes do you own?

Mmm, let me think … about 40. BUT can’t wear half of the really high heels at the moment. I do intend wearing them again in the future, so refuse to throw them out (not sure if I’m in denial or not though!)

What was your worst holiday experience?

My last trip to California (where my husband is from). The holiday wasn’t the problem, the travel was! Dublin to London to San Franciso was so long and my son was only six months old at the time. He was great on the flights but I hate flying! So, while hubby and son snoozed away, I was envisioning all sorts of scary airplane movies!

Describe your dream holiday?

Me, hubby and son by a pool with a maid to do all the cooking and cleaning.

What would be your dream job?

Singing/acting a couple of days a week and teaching the DAS Academy kids a couple of days a week too – I have done both, but not together yet.

What do you plan to do when you retire?

IF I retire, which will probably only ever be part-time retirement, as I love singing, acting and teaching. I will travel, relax and spend time with my son and future children and me and my husband’s family.

liability.

As regards tax relief on your second home, the original allowance of seven years has now expired – the last two years being at 20% tax relief.

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

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20 GAZETTE 10 May 2012

R1

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS

New Astra lives RoadSigns Road Signs CORMAC CURTIS

Eircom calls on Kuga for its new fleet IRELAND’S leading telecom services provider, Eircom, has taken delivery of 20 new Ford Kuga Commercial vehicles for its national team of radio site engineers. The Kuga is powered by Ford’s efficient 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine and has fourwheel drive capability, enabling the Eircom teams to gain easy access to off-road sites.

Michael Lynch, head of transport and logistics for Eircom, said: “Our teams need a tough, reliable vehicle in their daily work and the initial reaction to the new Kuga has been very positive. The Kuga has the right mix of style, versatility and toughness.”

Ford Ireland’s commercial vehicle sales and Marketing manager, Ciaran McMahon, said: “Our Kuga Commercial is the ideal stylish package for any business user who needs that little bit more muscle in their daily work. And with prices from €26,604, it truly is a great value package”.

Volkswagen claims number one spot VOLKSWAGEN Ireland has claimed the number 1 position in the Irish motor industry during April, with 867 registrations, a market share of 12.9%.

So far this year, Volkswagen has registered 6,513 vehicles representing a market share of 12.3%, up 0.5% (on 2011).

This performance places Volkswagen immediately behind Toyota, and suggests it is closing the gap.

Commenting on the figures, John Donegan, head of sales and marketing for Volkswagen Ireland said: “We are delighted with our performance during April and credit must go to our dealership network and their exceptional efforts.

“With a gap of just 200 registrations between Volkswagen Ireland and the top spot we will be doing our utmost to continue this strong performance in the second quarter of 2012 and maximise a strong order bank.”

Volkswagen Ireland’s strong performance is against the backdrop of an overall motoring industry that year to date is 7.2 % down on 2011 with April down 22% on April 2011.

EAR in, year out, car companies the world ove r t e a s e u s with incredible concept designs that they promise indicate the direction their latest models are following.

Unfortunately, year after year, what eventually rolls off the assembly line doesn’t quite live up to our, admittedly juvenile, expectations.

A certain part of every driver’s psyche (well, mine at least) wants to see a car that breaks the rules and doesn’t apologise for it.

I have an insatiable appetite for a car that has all the charm, character, looks and power of a James Bond villain, just in motoring form.

Something that really has a menacing personality.

So, when Opel released their concept images of the newest incarnation of the Astra GTC at the Paris Autoshow in 2010, not too many members of the motoring press held their breath in anticipation of the final product matching the beauty of the concept.

How wrong were we?

Very.

With the exception of the alloys and the racing seats featured in the pre-release images, the Opel Astra GTC is almost exactly as promised.

A s m a ny w i l l b e aware, the Astra hatchback has been held close to the hearts of many a young boy racer over the years.

And, as those boy racers have matured, Opel have kept a close eye on how the Astra has developed to match the needs and, indeed, the desires of their customers.

This time, though, the design team led by

Y

SPECS: OPEL ASTRA GTC 2.0-LITRE DIESEL SRI Engine: 2.0 CDTI Economy: 49.6mpg CO2 emissions: 127g Price: €27,995

Opel’s vice-president of design, Mark Adams, has produced something wonderful.

You simply can’t help but grin from ear to ear when you lay eyes on this car.

The contours appear to have been modelled on the lines in a speed tunnel, making the car’s profile similar to a cross section of an aeroplane’s wing.

This thing looks like it’s moving when it’s standing still.

External chrome has been kept to a stylish minimum – only appearing on the front grille and as a highlighting arc over the side windows.

The front lights have all the subtlety of a snarling panther, and, at night, the effect is exaggerated with some beautifully designed illumination.

Let’s just say you’ll notice this car from a mile off – and you will feel like giving it plenty of space and avoiding eye contact.

This Astra is also the first Opel coupe that offers an option of 20” alloy wheels the model I tested was sporting this option, and I couldn’t imagine the car without them.

The biggest issue for my kids is rear seats – do they have enough room, and can they buckle themselves in to their booster chairs?

In the Astra GTC, this was, surprisingly, absolutely no problem. Not only that, but, both kids could even flip the front seats for ward themselves to get out.

Practicality reaches further back in to the

The Astra GTC is well worth a test drive if you can drag yourself away from the beauty of the outside

car, as the boot provides between 380 and 1,165 litres of volume – over 200 litres more than some of the competition.

I was impressed with the high-quality materials that feature in all GTCs, and with the attractive chromeedged instruments in deep-set binnacles that give drivers clear and well laid-out information.

Standard on all GTCs are DAB stereo and USB functionality, while the SRi gets an onboard computer and leather-rimmed steering wheel.

My test car came in a beautifully striking Morello Red, and featured the

new premium leather trim, and a six-way adjustable driver’s seat.

I was relieved that the sports seats in this car were forgiving enough to allow me to drive in incredible comfort – which is not always the case with figure-hugging sports seats!

This car would not be complete without some serious performance ability – and the 2.0CDTi packs 165PS with an exceptionally strong 350Nm of torque from just 1,750rpm.

This helps it to a c h i e ve a 0 - 6 0 m p h time of just 8.4 seconds and 50-70mph in 6.4 seconds, together with a combined fuel consumption of 58.9mpg

and emissions of just 127g/km.

In short, enough poke for some laugh-out-load fun on the road.

Driver comfort is further enhanced as the engine is bolted in position via hydraulicallydamped mountings that minimise vibration through the body structure. Opel’s Start/ Stop system is fitted to all 2.0-CDTi models as standard and works nicely.

So, there is a lot going on in the new Astra GTC, and it won me over quicker than it can reach 60mph.

It’s well worth a test drive if you can drag yourself away from the beauty of the outside!

R1

up to expectations

10 May 2012 GAZETTE 21

22 GAZETTE 10 May 2012

GazetteTTRAVEL

Edited by Mimi Murray

Enjoy non-stop Las Vegas casino action

Cancun is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world

Enjoy the crisp ocean air in Cape Cod

AMERICA: BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, FANTASTIC THEME PARKS AND CARIBBEAN CRUISES

Get away to the USA hether you’re looking to see the beauty of Cape Cod, get Mickey Mouse’s autograph, or chance your luck in the casinos, American Holidays have some great US offers at the moment.

W

Orlando and Clearwater Beach

Stay 10 nights at the 4-star Crowne Plaza Universal Orlando and four nights at the 4-star Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort, with 14 nights car hire included, from only €1,049pp.

The Crowne Plaza Universal Orlando Hotel, located on Universal Boulevard, is just a quick walk from Orlando’s world-renowned International Drive. It offers an outdoor pool, fitness and business centres, and offers high-speed and wireless internet access.

Complimentary shuttles

whisk visitors from the hotel to SeaWorld, Wet ‘n’ Wild, and the Disney and Universal Orlando theme parks.

Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort stands on 10 acres of white-sand beach in Clearwater Beach and Pier 60, positioned adjacent to the resort, hosts nightly sunset celebrations.

The Show Queen Riverboat is docked two blocks from the hotel.

Price includes: Return flights from Dublin to Orlando, 14 nights accommodation and 14 nights car hire with fully inclusive insurance.

Price based on two adults and two children sharing.

Boston and Cape Cod

Spend three nights in the 3-star Midtown Hotel Boston and four nights in the 3-star Cape Codder Resort and Spa Hyannis from only €1,219pp

Centrally located in downtown Boston, the Midtown Hotel blends comfort and convenience with affordability. This moderately priced hotel, nestling in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay, puts the city at your doorstep.

Boston is an exciting city to visit and the Midtown Hotel is the place to stay.

At the award-winning Cape Codder Resort and Spa, enjoy the crisp ocean air and rolling sand dune scenery, providing numerous attractions, shopping and dining for its guests.

Comfortable lodgings and excellent restaurants are available as is fun for all the family in the complex’s amazing indoor wave pool.

Price includes: Return flights direct from Dublin to Boston with Aer Lingus, seven nights accommodation and four days car hire. Prices based on two adults sharing.

Orlando Stay and Western Caribbean Cruise

Stay five nights in the 3-star Rosen Inn Pointe Orlando Hotel and seven nights aboard Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas from only €1,329pp.

Take the family to Orlando this Christmas and stay in the Rosen Inn Pointe Orlando Hotel on the famous International Drive, within driving distance of Universal Orlando, Sea World, Walt Disney World Theme Parks and many other Orlando attractions. The hotel also provides a complimentary scheduled shuttle transportation service to each of these attractions.

The newly-enhanced Freedom of the Seas is a marvel of maritime engineering, packed with awesome innovations to stir your imagination. Catch a first-run movie in the 3D theatre or poolside under the stars on the outdoor movie

screen. Infuse colour into your cruise with the artworks of the BRITTO Gallery or with the frosted confections of the Cupcake Cupboard.

Plus, enjoy all the revolutionary features Freedom of the Seas has always been known for - FlowRider surf simulator, rock climbing wall, ice-skating rink, Royal Promenade, cantilevered whirlpools, mini-golf course, H2O Zone water park, and much more.

Price includes: Return flights from Dublin to Orlando, five nights accommodation in Orlando, seven nights full-board cruise and taxes.

Excludes gratuities. Terms and conditions apply. Price based on two adults sharing.

Las Vegas and Cancun

Stay three nights in the 3-star Excalibur Hotel and seven nights in the 3-star Viva Wynham Maya in Cancun, Mexico from only €1,479pp.

Stay in royal accommodations in the Excalibur Hotel in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Excalibur offers everything you’d expect from a Las Vegas hotel - from top-notch dining and entertainment, to non-stop Las Vegas casino action.

Surrounded by pristine beaches and submerged among coral reefs, the Viva Wynham Maya is enchanted by ancient Mayan ruins.

The all-inclusive resort experience shines with a seemingly endless array of exciting possibilities. Dine at one of seven restaurants, offering a tempting array of cuisines in a variety of beautiful settings.

Price includes: Return flights, internal flight, 10 nights accommodation and airport transfers in Cancun. Prices based on two adults sharing.

Call American Holidays to book on 01 6733800.

10 May 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 23

24 LUCAN GAZETTE 10 May 2012

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT !

FOR ALL THE LATEST THEATRE, CINEMA, GAMING AND TECH NEWS

SEE THE GAZETTE

Seann William Scott and Jason Biggs explain to the rest of the gang what it felt like to have a career beyond the American Pie films. Out of shot, Chris Klein plots Rollerball 2.

This slice is stale Thirteen years after their first adventure, the American Pie gang are reunited, but they’ve left the charm behind I PAUL HOSFORD

AVENGERS Assemble may have announced the arrival of summer in cineplexes, but another reluctant team are coming together this week to fight off their own demons and play dress up.

Unfortunately for the cast of American Pie: Reunion, Joss Whedon didn’t work his magic on the fourth (or eighth, depending on whether you class direct to video sequels) instalment of the series.

Because, whereas the characters you know and love are back, they are basically the same people.

Sure, Jim (Jason Biggs) and Michelle (Alyson Hannigan) are now parents of a two-year-old, Oz (Chris Klein) has become a sports caster with a blonde girlfriend ( 3 0 R o c k ’s K a t r i n a Bowden).

FILM OF THE WEEK: American Pie: Reunion ### (15) 113 mins Directors: Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg Starring: Jason Biggs, Seann William Scott, Alyson Hannigan, Chris Klein, Tara Reid, Eugene Levy, Mena Suvari, Jennifer Coolidge

OUR VERDICT: ONLY nostalgia gets this film such a high score. A film without characters as warmly built and easily recognised may have dipped below three stars. That said, there are genuinely funny parts and some that are laced with the good-hearted sweetness that made the series so successful. It is definitely worth a watch, but not worth rushing to.

Kevin (Thomas Ian Nicholas) has settled into the life of a househusband, Finch (Eddie Kaye Thomas) is a welltravelled man of the world, Mena Suvari’s Heather is a doctor, Stif ler’s (Seann William Scott) still Stifler, and Tara Reid’s Vicky is... living in New York, which is all we learn, but that’s ok because her character was the worst.

So, 13 years after their graduation, the gang are back in town for a reunion and all ruminating on how their

lives haven’t gone as expected.

It’s an odd fit, trying to make a mid-life crisis comedy of a franchise that got famous for its unconventional use of baked goods.

So, we have the gang wistfully looking at the kids these days, wondering where their own youth has gone and alternately being their usual selves, which is the film’s biggest flaw.

Jim will have his customary mishap, Finch will become obsessive about a toilet, Oz and Heather will look at

each other doe-eyed, Stif ler will scam on younger girls and get the best lines, while Kevin and Vicky will continue to be massive, lumberingly unfunny, millstones around the neck of the franchise.

Directors Hur witz and Schlossberg created the Harold and Kumar series, itself a race-concious homage to American Pie, so you would feel that this project was right in their wheel-house.

Unfor tunately, the pair seem to have mistaken watching the first film for making the fourth.

Most of the jokes are callbacks to the original instalment, and nothing more than that.

The only character given room to grow is Jim’s Dad, played with typical dryness by Eugene Levy.

With his wife, Jim’s Mom, dead, his attempts

to get back into the dating game are peppered with brilliant Levy dialogue.

Of course, there is the inevitable meeting with Stifler’s Mom (Jennifer Coolidge) and the two play off each other magnificently.

But, this all feels like an afterthought. Like somewhere through filming, someone pointed out that Levy and Coolidge are two gifted comedians and the fans would probably like to see them get together.

The actors struggle manfully with the material and, to an extent, seeing characters that you have built a genuine affection for back on the screen isn’t the worst way to spend two hours, but that alone just isn’t enough.

This is why reunions are short-lived affairs; after the initial buzz of being back together, you realise why you left.

10 May 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING Blackberry’s battle SHANE DILLON

IT’S not that long ago when the (then) ubiquitous Blackberry was half-jokingly referred to as the “Crackberry”, given its near-addictive hold over its owners, and their seemingly constant need to be toying with it, checking up on their emails.

Flash forward a few short years, and Blackberry’s maker, Research in Motion (RIM) faces terribly civilised barbarians at the gate, in the form of Apple and Samsung – but barbarians, nonetheless, threatening to hack and slash what remains of the Blackberry’s collapsed share of the mobile smartphone/ internet phone market.

In a bid to beat back its rivals’ ever-advancing pincer movements, RIM’s alchemists have emerged with the Blackberry 10 – an almost all-ornothing device that RIM hopes is the secret weapon it needs to guarantee its survival, or, at the very least, provide some market breathing space.

Of course, as an awful lot of current-gen Blackberry owners will tell you, there’s nothing very “wrong” with their devices – it’s just that the general expectation of the mass market for what their phones (at heart) can do has shifted, incrementally, with the public perception that, foot by foot, RIM has been left behind on the way to the all-conquering peak of

Research in Motion (RIM) chief, Thorsten Heins, unveils the Blackberry 10 (inset) at RIM’s annual BlackBerry World gathering in Orlando, last week

market dominance.

And so, the Blackberry 10 has a number of contemporary features, with de rigueur touchscreen helping to maximise a new OS aimed at keeping pace with its peers (assuming, of course, developers row in behind the new OS – given the

comparative paucity of Blackberry apps, they have to).

However, what’s most striking, from the prototype, is that the iconic ke y b o a r d h a s b e e n ditched, in line with modern smartphone stylings, helping to retool the Blackberry into a more

streamlined smartphone.

With shareholders fielding blows to stock values, profit warnings and its first quarterly loss, coupled with other woes, RIM’s bosses must be praying Blackberry 10 can beat back the hordes, or the Blackberry’s very future could be axed ...

Bytesandpieces Puppets string out a fun Fable FROM chicken-kicking to lute-playing, the Fable series of games has always had much more to do than merely saving the kingdom, for those looking for a dash of fun with their adventuring.

Now, building on the wellestablished world seen throughout the series, we’re presented with Fable Heroes, a not-entirely-obvious (but fun, nonetheless) title launching on XBox Live Arcade, priced 800 Microsoft points.

Adding to the rush of quality titles winging their way to Live Arcade, Fable Heroes sees bright, colourful and intensely competitive multiplayer action rolling out across the land of Albion, with puppet heroes joining forces to battle evil, level up their characters, unlock ever-greater weapons and powers and compete for gold rewards. As for any chicken-kicking – well, play the game to see ...

Anticipated with some puzzlement by the gaming press, the silly, cheeky and intense battles are lots of fun, presented with a gorgeous art style in the instantly memorable land of Albion. Boss battles, party games and side-scrolling action are certainly fun reasons to sally forth with your hero.

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26 LUCAN GAZETTE 10 May 2012

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GazetteSPORT

WONDER WARD:

Portmarnock’s Ireland star on his hopes for Euro 2012: Page 29

GOLF: KELLOGG’S SKILLS COMPETITION TO TEST THE BEST OF COUNTRY’S GOLFERS

Challenge is set for Dublin’s golfing stars sport@gazettegroup.com

GOLFERS all over the city are being called upon to show their skills in a new initiative from the Golfing Union of Ireland and Kellogg’s.

The Kellogg’s NutriGrain Golf Skills Challenge competition, which is being run to mark a new partnership between the organisations, aims to find Ireland’s most skilled golfers.

There are seven skills involved in the challenge — driving, 135metre shot, pitching, up-and-down, bunker play, difficult lies and putting.

There will be a number of regional qualif ying events, from which qualifiers will progress to a national final.

These include qualifying events at Donabate Golf Club on Friday, June 22 and Hollystown Golf Club on Friday, August

10, prior to the national finat at the GUI National Golf Academy at Carton Demense.

Ireland rugby player and Kellogg NutriG r a i n a m b a s s a d o r, Rob Kearney, attended the launch of the new partnership at the GUI National Golf Academy, and said: “As a professional athlete, I fully appreciate the need to practise basic skills and drills day in, day out. If I could bring the disci-

Rob Kearney (right) with pro at the GUI Academy, Kenny Fahey, and Jim McNeill of Kellogg Ireland

pline and time I devote to r ugby to my golf game, I’m sure I could drop another few shots off my handicap.”

Speaking on behalf of the GUI National Golf Academy, Alan Kelly

said: “T he Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain Golf Skills Challenge presents golfers from around Ireland the opportunity to challenge themselves and really make all their practice pay off.

T he idea of skills challenge came about after we saw the reaction to our short game clinics over the last couple of years, and now we have the opportunity to establish the challenge

in golf clubs.”

The competition is open to all golfers over the age of 18, who have an official GUI or ILGU handicap. Online entry is available at w w w. learntogolf.ie.

28 LUCAN GAZETTE 10 May 2012

GazetteSport Sport

Bohemians’ Dave Scully gets on the ball

Heads up at Arthur Griffith Park

Chairman and player Allan O’Kearney with Bohs manager, Aaron Callaghan and mascot Allan Junior

Special match Bohemians in town for AGP friendly A

RTHUR Griffith Park FC recently hosted some special guests in the form of Bohemians FC. In unfamiliar surroundings for the League of Ireland side, an entertaining and well-balanced match was played out.

Winger Corey Davidson opened the scoring for Bohs and was the provider for the visitors’ second.

AGP could have had a couple of goals of their own when Shummer Sekawata and Paul O’Kearney broke through the Bohs’ defence, to be denied by some great goal keeping.

Dwayne Wilson and Mark Radford scored again for Bohs, but Patrick Maher and Ross Byrne struck back for AGP. AGP chairman Allan O’Kearney would like to thank Aaron Callaghan and all of the Bohemians’ players and staff for the opportunity to play one of the most famous clubs in Ireland. The club would also like to thank Lucan Harriers, Derek Keating and all of the supporters who created a great atmosphere on the day.

The teams from Arthur Griffith Park and Bohemians come together at the end of the match

Dave Scully tries to close down Dolapo Lawal

Shummer Sekatawa and AGP players celebrate a goal

10 May 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 29

Green manifesto for Euro glory

FastSport

Stephen Ward is set to put a tough season behind him when he travels to Poland with Ireland for Euro 2012, writes STEPHEN FINDLATER AT TIMES, Stephen Ward has to pinch himself. His most vivid childhood memories were defined

by Ireland’s appearance in major international tournaments, but now he stands ready to take his European championships bow.

As a four-year-old, he remembers “causing carnage” at street parties in 1990. In 2002, his parents “allowed” him to skip a fifth-year engineering exam to watch Robbie Keane strike late for a 1-1 draw against Germany in the World Cup. Now, it is the Portmarnock man’s time to shine on the international stage.

Stephen Ward

Wolves’ relegation from the English Premier League means his focus is already firmly trained on Poland and, hopefully, Ukraine, with the time to create new memories on the agenda.

but I can still remember street parties, no cars and tables up the road. I knew something big was going on.

“From there, I remember where I was for all the games in 1994 and 2002.

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

‘There are still a lot of players over here that could make it in England but it’s just about a manager taking a chance on you’

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

“Your best memories are when Ireland are in major tournaments,” he said at the launch of the FAI Summer Schools this week.

“I was only four in 1990

It’s a dream come true.

For kids growing up now, hopefully, this will be part of their memories and we can give them some of the highlights.”

Having such a carrot has offered some respite for Ward. He has played every minute of Wolves’ ultimately doomed campaign this term, one of the club’s top performers in an ultimately forgettable campaign.

Such setbacks, indeed, do not always lead to a loss of form. In 2002, Matt Holland bounced back from relegation with Ipswich to score for the Republic in their opening World Cup game against Cameroon.

It is an irony not lost on Ward when reminded of the stat: “I’d take that!

It’s not nice going as a relegated player.

“It’s been devastating, but the writing has been on the wall for a few weeks, so we’ve had a bit

of time to reflect on what has happened.”

Terr y Connor has offered Ward a chance to rest in recent weeks but is keen to finish off a complete season and build toward Poland.

It is quite the position to be in for the former Bohs’ man who opted to stay in Dublin at the start of his professional career rather than move across the water in his mid-teens, owing a lot to club mate, Kevin Doyle.

“I certainly don’t feel I’d be where I am today if it wasn’t for the League of Ireland.

Opportunity “It definitely helped me grow up. Hand on heart, I don’t know how I would have reacted going away at 16, moving to an environment where everyone is trying to make it.

“Doyler opened a door for a lot of people with how easy he took to it in his first season. He keeps telling me I owe him! It is true, though.

“If he hadn’t gone over and done as well as he did, we wouldn’t have this opportunity. There are still a lot of players over here that could make it in England but it’s just about a manager taking a chance on you.”

Ireland manager, Giovanni Trapattoni was another to take a chance on Ward, and he has become a key player on the left in recent time.

So much so, he is now in a position to emulate the vintage of Jack Charlton’s 1-0 victory over Italy in 1994 – one Ward watched enthralled with 15 family members in his house.

“No one gave us a chance in that game, and no one will do that against Spain. I know it’s a different scale, but you look at what Chelsea did to Barcelona, it can happen – these teams can be beaten. In the last World Cup, Spain lost to Switzerland and went on to win it.

“They can slip up and, hopefully if they do, it will be against us. I think we can shock a lot of people.

Not many people will give us a chance of getting out of our group. I think that will suit us.

“We always seem to do well with an underdog tag. We’re going there with a world-class manager. Qualifying is down to him and the way he prepares us. Obviously there are better technical teams in the tournament – Spain and Italy are among the best teams in the world. But when it comes to 90 minutes, we can make it really tough for anyone.

“The first game will be vital but if we’re still in contention coming into the Italy game, we’ll have a great chance of progressing. After that, you just hope you can go as far as possible.”

GOAL calls on Transition students to get active TRANSITION year students throughout Dublin are being challenged to take on their teachers as part of a new annual multi-sport challenge taking place during May in aid of humanitarian agency, GOAL. Launched nationwide last week, the GOAL Sports Challenge provides all schoolchildren — from junior infants right up to Leaving Certificate level – with the opportunity to compete against each other in a wide range of popular sports and games.

The event is aimed at boosting fitness levels amongst children and teenagers, and raising money and awareness for some of GOAL’s programmes for vulnerable children throughout the developing world.

Teachers are also being encouraged to participate, by either taking part in as many events as they can, or by arranging and supervising games for the younger children.

“We expect the students versus the teachers event, in sports like rugby, soccer, Gaelic football or hurling to capture the imagination of most schools, but we have proposed a number of other games, such as skipping, hula-hoop rolling, long puck and long kick events, GOAL miles and relays as types of events that will suit boys and girls of all ages and fitness levels,” said GOAL’s development education officer, Maeve Seery.

“However, schools are more than welcome to come up with their own ideas, too.

“We have also suggested Friday, May 11, as a day to hold the GOAL Sports Challenge, but it may be easier for schools to run the event at another time, whether it is during a sports day, a lunch break, or even a PE class.”

Participating children and teachers are being encouraged to donate whatever they can afford towards GOAL. For more information, including tips and guidelines for individual games, students and teachers should log on to www.goal.ie, or call Maeve at GOAL on 01-2809 779.

30 LUCAN GAZETTE 10 May 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

RUGBY: NUIM HOST THREE-PROVINCE MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT

Get your spot picked out for Star Saturday THIS year, the UEFA Champions League final and the first all-Ireland Heineken Cup final both take place on May 19.

This sporting feast of a day will deliver exhilarating viewing experiences for rugby and soccer fans alike, and key sponsors, Heineken, are inviting fans to catch both finals at specially prepared venues on what they are describing as Star Saturday.

In a monumental day for Irish rugby, two Irish provinces meet in the Heineken Cup final for the first time.

Leinster clash with Ulster in Twickenham at 5pm and, with both provinces having tasted Heineken Cup glory in the past, they will be keen to recreate their respective heroics to claim the coveted trophy once more.

In the UEFA Champions League final, Bayern Munich will look to use their home advantage and lift the famous trophy in front of their adoring fans.

However, they face a stern test against a rejuvenated Chelsea team that recently eliminated Barcelona. This huge fixture kicks off at 7.45pm.

Throughout Ireland on May 19, Heineken will host Star Saturday in participating pubs, with competitions running across nine venues, allowing fans to win some special prizes.

The action-packed day is set to be filled with sporting drama, and Heineken are inviting fans to get down to participating pubs to enjoy the action with friends, and snap up the best seats to both finals.

Fans can locate their nearest Heineken Star Saturday venue on www.heineken.ie/starsaturday.

Barnhall’s young players who took part in the Damien Brennan memorial tournament last week

Barnhall host Brennan cup sport@gazettegroup.com

THE Damien Brennan Memorial trophy made a welcome and overdue return to NUIM Barnhall Rugby Club.

The competition, was last held in 2004 in memory of Damien Brennan, son to Iris and Rory, brother to Trevor, Earl and Ronnie, who died at a very young age of meningitis.

The competition was host to eight teams from the three provinces — Leinster, Munster and Connacht — with over 300 players and managers arriving from around the country on

the day.

The teams were split into two groups, with group one comprising NUIM Barnhall, Garryowen A, Newbridge and Shannon, while group two was made up of North Kildare, Garryowen B, Athy and Corinthians.

Each team played three group matches and were then entered into a quarter-final. The quarter-finals lined out with Garryowen A playing Newbridge, North Kildare against Athy, Corinthians against NUIM Barnhall and Shannon against Garryowen B.

Unfortunately, both NUIM Barnhall and Athy were eventually eliminated after going out on penalty kicks with their games ending in draws.

The semi-finals were contested between Garr yowen A and a spirited North Kildare, whose game also ended in a draw and a penalty kick decider, which was eventually won by Garryowen.

The second semi-final saw Galway Corinthians go up against Garryowen B. Both Garr yowen teams progressed to the final, and it was decided

by the respective coaches to share the cup.

All games were played in excellent spirit and finesse, proving that the future of Irish rugby is in good hands.

The competition was topped off with the presentation of the cup and medals, with a surprise visit from Barnhall’s very own ex-Irish international, Toulouse player and brother to Damien, Trevor Brennan, who arrived straight from Dublin airport to award Garryowen the Cup. The tournament was organised by George Furlong, Kevin Corcoran and Jonathan

Geoghegan while the four referees on the day were Sean Kirby, M a r k M a h e r, P a u l McSweeney and Conor McSweeney.

Noel Dillon, current NUIM Barnhall president, and ex-coach of D a m i e n , s a i d : “ I ’m delighted to see this event r unning once again after an absence of a few years. To commemorate the life of Damien Brennan in this fantastic occasion, and to see so many youths participating and really enjoying the day, makes it such a special occasion for the clubs and players involved.’’

Colaiste Phadraig defeat Columba’s sport@gazettegroup.com

COLAISTE Phadraig Lucan continued their fine start to life in Corkagh Park as they beat St Columba’s by 40 runs in Corkagh Park in the Leinster school’s junior cricket league.

Despite the recent heavy rain, the home of Adamstown CC, was declared playable for the Rathfarnham school’s first visit to South Dublin’s newest cricket ground.

Colaiste Phadraig won

the toss and elected to bat first. For the Lucan side, Kashan Alam top scored with 39 and Kashif Shah supported him with 20 as the Lucan side reached 116 for 5 in their allotted 25 overs.

This was a good score as the outfield was slow due to the recent wet weather.

Despite an entertaining 36 by Cormac McCooey, Columbas fell short by 40 runs and were all out.

Alam and Shah took three wickets apiece as they

both had good all round days at the office.

T hey were ably suppor ted in the field by Dean Sheridan and Sean Twamley as the St Columba’s batsmen found the Colaiste Phadraig fielding unit difficult to pierce.

This section of the Junior League is being headed by Wesley College but Colaiste Phadraig are one of those in hot pursuit. A lot is to play for in the next two weeks as only one team will qualify for the knock out stages.

10 May 2012 LUCAN GAZETTE 31

FOOTBALL: THIRD NATIONAL TITLE IN A DECADE

CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS WELL done to Emmet O’Conghaile and

those who wish to play should text

Ciaran McHugh and the Dublin U-21

Gerry O’Grady at 086 0560111 By Fri-

footballers on being crowned All-

day, May 11.

Ireland champions.

born in 2005, 2006 and 2007 continue

had a good win over Wexford on Sat-

every Saturday at 1.30pm on our

urday at the 12th Lock, with our own

all-weather pitch at the 12th Lock.

Siobhan Grimes, Claire Rigney, Ali

Camogie nursery at 2.30pm for girls

Twomey, Kate Whyte, Niamh Berry,

aged six and over. This is your child’s

and Ciara Sheehan all playing their

chance to be coached by Dublin sen-

part.

ior hurling captain, Johnny McCaf-

Well done also to Maeve Dowler who was chosen to referee in Croke Park in last Saturday’s Cumann.

Best of luck to Scoil Mhuire senior hurling team who play in the Sciath Ui Neill final in Croke Park this week.

Dublin Roscommon

2-12 0-11

I sport@gazettegroup.com

LU CA N S a r s f i e l d s ’ Emmet O’Conghaile played a pivotal role in midfield for the Dublin Under-21s when they claimed the county’s third Clark Cup with victory over Roscommon in Tullamore last Sunday, adding to the Sky Blues’ success at this level in 2003 and 2010.

The Dubs finished like a freight train to capture the title, with manager Jim Gavin becoming the first Dublin manager to lead the county to two All-Ireland glories, having managed the team in 2010.

Dublin led 1-5 to 0-6 at the interval thanks in part to the clinical accuracy of Paul Hudson.

Indeed, it was the Thomas Davis sniper whose goal in added time in the first half that proved

Opening times for our club shop are 8.30pm and Saturday from 10.30 to 11.30am.

Our next golf outing will be at Cas-

regained a foothold for the Dubs at centrefield, while the introduction of Paddy O’Higgins, like nearly all the substitutions, helped to turn the balance of power the way of Gavin’s men in a frenetic second half.

At the back, the likes of team captain, Kevin O’Brien, and Sean George kept their opponents at bay with some heroic defending.

Now on the front foot, Dublin began to open up Roscommon with some direct running from the likes of Gary Sweeney and sub Harry Dawson and, over the concluding ten minutes, Dublin hit 1-6 without reply as they turned on the turbo drive to finally shake off a very committed Roscommon side.

Ciaran Kilkenny put in an excellent last ten minutes, while centreback John Kelly’s points summed up the “never say die” attitude of the Dublin team as they

on April 21.

lucansarsfields.ie.

Race night is this Friday, May 11 at

to be the only major of the first half, after he skillfully jab-lifted the ball before rifling to the roof of the Roscommon net.

The goal arrived in the 32nd minute when John Kelly’s delivery was broken down by Ciaran Kilkenny, and Hudson showed terrific guile to find the net.

The Dubs could really have held a stronger advantage, but failed to convert possession into scores, and were guilty of not combining to telling effect up front as the Rossies dominated territory and possession for the first 30 minutes.

Roscommon threw caution to the wind after the restart and were rewarded with four points without reply as the lively Donie Smith (two), Cian Connolly and Colin Compton were all on target.

But when his side needed him most, Emmet O’Conghaile

phy (junior hurlers) on their wedding

available on our website, www.

9pm.

ALL-IRELAND U-21 FINAL

Congratulations to Maria McGrath (ladies’ football) and Stephen Mur-

Tuesday and Thursday from 7.30 to

ers team in the Carbury blitz.

tlewarden on Thursday, May 17. All

Dublin secure AllIreland U-21 crown

frey.

This week’s Lotto numbers are

Six out of six for our Gaelic 4 Moth-

Dublin manager Jim Gavin and team captain Kevin O’Brien with the All-Ireland trophy

Our nurseries for boys and girls

The Dublin minor camogie team

Deepest sympathy to the McNamara family on the death of Gerry’s brother-in-law Tony Cannon.

A full list of next weekends fixtures are on our website, www.lucansarsfields.ie.

ST PAT’S PALMERSTOWN THERE was a good win last Thursday

and 23. There was no winner. Second

by the junior footballers, beating St

draw numbers drawn were 7, 9, 15 and

Jude’s.

28. There was no winner.

Good luck to St Lorcan’s third and

Any three numbers: The winners

fourth class boys when they take

were Michael Sommers, Noel Math-

part in the hurling blitz in Croke Park

ews and Liam Smyth. Next Sunday, the

stretched themselves to the limit to capture victory.

Deep in injury time, Paul Mannion raised Dublin’s second green flag after being denied at the original attempt, to add All-Ireland glory to Dublin’s provincial success.

this week.

first draw jackpot will be €10,000, and

SCORERS: Dublin: P Hudson 1-4, C Kilkenny 0-4 (0-1f), P Mannion 1-0, P Ryan, J Kelly, G Seaver, H Dawson 0-1 each. Roscommon: D Smith 0- 4 (0-2f ), C Compton 0-3 (0-1f), D Keane, C Connolly 0-2 each.

WESTMANSTOWN GAELS

DUBLIN - JB Carthy; S George, K O’Brien, M Concar, L Fletcher, J Kelly, J McCaffrey, E O’Conghaile, C Reddin, G Sweeney, D Byrne, M Schutte, P Hudson, P Ryan, C Kilkenny.

S u b s : P M a g u i re fo r Schutte (ht), G Seaver for Byrne (34), H Dawson for Ryan (41), P O’Higgins for Reddin (42), P Mannion for Hudson (58).

Well done to all involved in the Feile held in Glenaulin last Saturday.

Special thanks to U-14 parents for their part played.

Unwanted books are now being collected; feel free to drop into clubhouse any evening with your donations.

Lotto number and results: First draw numbers drawn were 4, 13, 15

the second draw jackpot of €1,600.

Members are advised to keep June Bank Holiday free for a full schedule of activities for the St Pat’s club weekend.

Anyone with training equipment hurls/helmets etc, which they no longer use can drop donations to the clubhouse at anytime.

THE ladies led the way with a good win

Training for men’s teams is on Tues-

away to Naomh Mearnog in the cup

day night at 7pm, and the intermedi-

last Monday night, and followed up

ates have a challenge match away to

with a draw in the league at home to

Ballyboden this Thursday night at

Clan na Gael on Wednesday evening.

7.15pm.

The ladies nex t championship

The U-8 and U-9 Gaels hurlers won

fixture is at home to Ballinteer St

their respective fixtures v Cuala and

John’s, with training on Saturday

Ballinteer.

morning at 9am.

The Bank Holiday Feile weekend saw

The junior 1s championship fixture

the U-14 footballers win their group

with St James Gaels was rained off

but lose out to eventual divisional

and has been refixed for Tuesday,

winners, St Sylvester’s, in their

May 15, at 7pm.

semi-final.

The junior 2s lost to St Oliver Plun-

Many thanks to Feile Weekend

kett’s at home in their championship

Organiser Colm McNichol and his

match last Thursday night.

team of volunteers.

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

ALL OF YOUR LUCAN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

BLUES’ TRIBUTE: Barnhall’s young guns host Damian Brennan event P30

MAKING MEMORIES: Ward spies potential Euro surprise package P29

GazetteSPORT

The Dublin Angels played in the first ever women’s Australian Rules game to be included in the Haggis Cup

MAY 10, 2012

Historic Haggis win for Keane Lucan woman Sinead Keane stars for the Dublin Angels on a big day for women’s Australian Rules lucansport@gazettegroup.com

LUCAN woman Sinead Keane played her part on an historic day for women’s Australian Rules football in Europe last week when she lined out for the Dublin Angels against the Kilrea Kookaburras.

It was also the first time that the Haggis Cup, held at Peffermill in Edinburgh, featured a women’s section, with the two Irish sides meeting for the first time in seven months to start their seasons at the international event.

Comeback For a number of players, it was also a special day, their first outing in an Aussie Rules game, while the Angels welcomed back their captain, Avril Robinson, after a lengthy spell out with a knee injury.

From the opening siren, it was action galore, with Vanessa Temple nabbing the Dubliner’s first goal when she bounded through the mid-

dle pack to get the Angels on the scoreboard.

Rain then forced scrappy play in the middle of the pitch, making it hard for both teams to convert chances. Kilrea forward Nuala O’Hagan took some excellent leads for her side and made her mark on the game, scoring two goals.

Kookaburra’s centre Marie Keating was similarly on form, slipping through the Angels midfield to pump the ball forward, or through the sticks.

The tackling was heavy and hard: Kilrea captain Emma Kelly made heavy contact with Temple after taking a clean mark to give away a 25m penalty in the second half, resulting in an Angel’s goal.

Both sides made excellent efforts every time the ball was thrown up, with Hazley and Laura Stewart both enjoying a good number of disposals as the Dubliners ended the first half eight points clear.

The fourth quarter saw the pressure inten-

sify, the Dublin Angels’ accuracy on goal proving to be a thorn in Kilrea’s side, but they managed to contain the Kookaburras from surging up the ground.

Goal-rush Kilrea had a chance to goal at bring the score line back within reach but narrowly missed from the boundary. The Angels sealed the deal towards the end with some right-foot accuracy from Robinson.

The skipper pumped in two goals close to the end of the game to push the score out of Kilrea’s reach, making it 6-11 to 5-3 and a final tally of 47 to 33.

It proved one of the most competitive matches between the two clubs to date, as the sport continues to grow in popularity.

The sides were indebted to Douglas Hunter for providing the ladies’ section for this year’s Haggis Cup, opening the door for an enlarged tournament in the coming years.