Lucan

Lucan GAZET TE FREE

Your tempting chance to win tickets to Taste of Dublin 2011 COMPETITION: P11.

RECYCLE THIS COPY. KEEP DUBLIN TIDY.

YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Carmel Maher had lots to thank on her 60th birthday P2

May 26, 2011

THE WEIGHTING IS OVER: Local

woman’s new slimming group: Page 4

Keep on singing (no, really): Fun at a new school FOR just a moment, you could be

Soccer: Lucan United aim for double promotion Page 32

forgiven for thinking that these Adamstown Community College students really don’t like their friends’ singing, perhaps. However, these Performing Arts students have been caught in the middle of a celebratory dance routine, joining in the fun and delight as the Minister for Education, Frances Fitzgerald, officially opened their superb new school, which, with an investment of €14 million, is one of the State’s most modern and best-equipped schools.

Full Gallery on Page 10

Sports Awards: May’s nominees for Dublin prizes are announced Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ..................... 2 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Doc Clandillon gets married in Nepal Local charity founder takes his next big life step

Q PAUL HOSFORD

THE Lucan man who founded the Nagarhope charity in Nepal has strengthened his ties with the country even further by marrying a Nepali woman.

Throughout his time in Asia, Doc Clandillon has kept

Gazette readers up to date with all of his good work and, this week, Doc’s mother, Niamh, updates us on his amazing life in the Himalayan country.

She tells of her family’s nerves and excitement at meeting the newest member of their family, Doc’s wife, Divya.

Seeing up close what her

son does, Niamh says she was “humbled”.

“We can hardly imagine from an email what exactly is involved. It is awe-inspiring.

“They truly appreciate the money being sent from Ireland, and put it to very good use,” she says.

Full Story on Pages 6, 8

2 LUCAN GAZETTE 26 May 2011

PEOPLE Carmel turns 60 with a Sixties’-inspired party

Carmel was full of thanks for everyone who helped her to have such a great birthday party

Three memorable ladies’ looks from Kerry Maher, Brian Kelly and Laura O’Donoghue

Swinging out in style for a fun party

ARMEL Maher was 60 years young recently, and, with the help of family and friends, rolled the clock back in style to the 1960s with a birthday bash to remember at the Lucan pitch and putt club.

C

While the gentlemen generally dressed up in a chilled-out and groovy fashion, the ladies really pushed the boat out with vibrant, colourful dresses and outfits to do Carmel – and Mary Quant – proud.

Carmel Maher blows out her 60th birthday candle

It was a big milestone to hit, but Carmel, and her husband, Mick, had enough infection energy to put all the younger people at the party to shame.

It was a great night for everyone, with Carmel having a party to remember.

Cheers from Carmel’s friends as she got ready to blow out her birthday candle

Karen Maguire and Tommy Connolly

Joe and Marie Reilly

Mick Maher looked a little different

26 May 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 3

COMMUNITY Excitement at the Court Yard Hotel

A week of music events

Leixlip festival’s Salmon Leap fun Q PAUL HOSFORD

lucan@gazettegroup.com

DAMIEN Dempsey, Aslan, Mundy and Smash Hits 90’s Band have been confirmed as just some of the line-up acts for the entertainment in the Court Yard Hotel for the Leixlip Festival 2011.

Some of Ireland’s most popular live acts are set to rock the hotel this June Bank Holiday weekend, as part of the 22nd Salmon Leap Festival, which runs from Thursday, June 2, to Monday, June 6, which features a variety of arts, crafts, sports and family entertainment.

Laura Moriarty, of the Court Yard Hotel, said she expects a lively Bank Holiday weekend. “Leixlip Festival weekend is probably our busiest periods of the year, and is definitely the most fun.

“There’s always a fantastic buzz around the town, and I would say the highlights of the festival have been the efforts put in as a community.

“This year, we have a mix of up-and-comers like Ham Sandwich, Miracle Bell and The Shoos, along with a-list legends like Damien Dempsey.

“We have also lined up a number of great afternoon sessions with popular local bands, while the winner of the Battle of the Bands contest will play Saturday evening, from 5.30pm – 6.30pm,” she said.

With this year’s concert schedule confirmed, the Court Yard Hotel has a range of accommodation packages designed to give festival-goers the opportunity to enjoy all the sights and sounds in style, while staying in the heart of the festival.

The Festival Fever package, priced at €179 per night for two people, is an all-inclusive live entertainment, luxury accommodation and fine food package.

The Lovin’ The Leixlip Festival package, priced at €135 per night, is based on two night’s accommodation for two people in one of the standard guestrooms in the hotel, with full Irish breakfast, and, of course, all the live music they can handle.

For Let Us Entertain You package, priced at €205 per person, provides three nights’ accommodation in the heart of festival-land, including a full Irish breakfast.

As the gigs are announced, there is growing excitement for the upcoming Battle of the Bands competition.

Moriarty said: “The battle is on every Thursday night, up until the festival, where we have three bands a night, continuing on to two bands a night for the semi-finals and finals.

Good bands “The winner of the contest will play on the main stage at the Court Yard Leixlip Festival before Aslan. We’ve some really good bands on our books for this, and everyone is looking forward to see what they’ve got.”

On a culinary note, this year’s food fair at the hotel will see the return of the “Suckling Pig on a Spit” – one of the most popular elements of the annual Salmon Leap Festival. And, beginning on Thursday, June 2, at midday, festival-goers will have the opportunity to sample a tantalising array of food in the hotel’s Arthur’s Bar.

CONCERTS: COMMUNITY

The Court Yard Hotel in Leixlip has another superb line-up for this year’s Leixlip Festival 2011

On Monday, June 6, the Court Yard Hotel is hosting a day of talent and fun with Claire Tighe’s TheatreworX group, performing a show with its young students.

Party Afterwards, the hotel will provide a little party with treats and delights for all the children who took part, or who simply came along to watch.

“We are really looking forward to this year’s festival – I think this year is going to be one of the best we’ve ever had,” said Moriarty.

“We’ve put in place outstanding packages

of wonderful live music, and an atmosphere you cannot beat, along with all the other aspects of the festival.

“The management and staff have been putting blood, sweat and tears into this year’s preparations for a long time now, and there is no way we’d accomplish nearly as much as we have done without the strong team we have in place at the moment.

“If anyone is looking for some serious craic this June Bank Holiday weekend, I would say to come to Leixlip, and you’ll have a ball,” said Moriarty.

The hotel staff are ready to help create a great event

A WEEK of music workshops are set for Lucan as South Dublin County Council Arts and Library Services will welcome The Irish Chamber Orchestra to conduct a week-long programme of events.

Two children’s concerts, as well as the world music ensemble, Lunfardia, will feature, as will a traditional music platform of master classes and performances.

These will feature musicians Gerry O’Connor (fiddle), Alan Doherty (flute), and Phil Callery (voice), culminating in an open-air performance on Lucan village green, entitled, Opera On The Village Green, with a performance of Hansel and Gretel, the opera for children.

For general festival enquiries and other bookings, contact Artscope on 01 505 9582, or email info@artscope.ie.

4 LUCAN GAZETTE 26 May 2011

COMMUNITY: HOPES TO IMPLEMENT BYE-LAWS

Park review group is welcomed THE establishment of a new implementation group aimed at progressing recommendations for improving the policing and management of public parks in South Dublin County has been welcomed by local politicians, this week.

Speaking to the Gazette, Fine Gael councillor William Lavelle welcomed moves to progress the implementation of the recommendations, which were contained in a report p r e p a r e d l a s t y e a r, Reclaiming Our Parks.

“Following the recent election, the South Dublin Joint Policing Committee has been reconstituted, and I am happy to report that a new implementation group has finally been established to progress the recommendations aimed at improving the policing and management of our public parks.

“These were contained in the Reclaiming Our Parks report, prepared by a group chaired by me, last year, and which was published last September,” he said.

“Key recommendations, which I hope we will be able to progress,

include the establishment of park safety teams, involving council park rangers and community Gardai; the expansion of CCTV systems in parks; enhanced Garda policing of parks, and measures to increase positive public usage of parks,” he said.

“There has already been some welcome progress on some of the matters addressed in our report.

Updated bye-laws “These include new, updated park bye-laws, which have been published and are currently on public display for comment.

“The council’s Parks Depar tment is also looking at the possibility of installing a timercontrolled electronic locking mechanism on the pedestrian gate to Griffeen Valley Park, at Griffeen Glen Park/Elm Green, along with measures to prevent scrambler bike access.

“There is also newlyinstalled CCTV in the southern part of Griffeen Valley Park, which will go live in coming weeks,” said Cllr Lavelle.

PEOPLE Local behind new slimming group

Weighting game is over for dieters Q PAUL HOSFORD

lucan@gazettegroup.com

MARTINE Cur tis, a Lucan mother-of-three,, is looking to help otherss replicate her life-chang-ing weight loss, which h she attributes to the Slim-ming World programme.

Mar tine has sincee become a consultant with h the group, and is opening her own group on Tuesday, May 31, at 7.30pm in the Blue Max Function Room at Weston Airport, just off the N4.

She says: “My father died when I was 12, and this is when my weight gain started. I was miserable as a teen, and as a young adult.

“I had tried everything to lose the weight, but I became frustrated with counting, weighing, and going to bed hungry.

“I’d lose weight, but then regain more. It was not a life – it was an existence,” says Martine.

It was a trip to Paris that showed Martine

Local mother-of-three, Martine Curtis, was motivated by how she looked in a passport photo (left) to find the right weight-loss programme for her, and is now running her own Slimming World group at Weston Airport

how di dissatisfied h ti fi d she h was with her appearance.

“An opportunity to go to Paris arose, so I needed a passport. When I saw the passport photo, it was like looking at a stranger. Who was this person looking back at me?

“The trip was cancelled, but the photo was there, it was real, and it was shocking. I was at my heaviest ever,” she says.

“Then, my best friend, Susan, called in. I had been at my first Slimming World group, and was so excited.

“I was very nervous on the first night, even with my friend by my side,

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

‘When it was time for my weighin, I was sure there was no way anyone could eat all I had, and lose weight! But I lost 9lbs, and nearly fell off the scales! It was the best thing I ever did’

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

Martine Curtis, advocate for Slimming World

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

and, when the consultant started talking about unlimited potato, rice and pasta, I thought I was dreaming.

“I decided to follow the plan exactly, and was sure it wouldn’t work.

When it was time for my weigh-in, I was sure I would be proven right – there was no way anyone could eat all I had, and

lose weight!

“But I lost 9lbs, and nearly fell off the scales!

It was the best thing I ever did.

“Instead of proving Susan wrong, I proved to myself the Slimming World plan works,” says Martine.

“The plan utilises normal, everyday food, there is no special kitchen

press with the ‘diet’ food inside.

“My family eat the same food. Some of the meals they enjoy include spaghetti bolognese, chicken tikka masala with rice, and full roast dinners. They have all lost weight,” she says.

There is also a plan for 11 to 15-year-olds, called Free to Go, which focuses on the teen making healthy diet choices, where weight loss is not the priority.

The teen does not pay, but needs to be accompanied by a guardian.

Martine says that she “really looks forward to the group every week; it is a positive environment with people of a like mind”.

LOCAL MATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZETTE CALL 60 10 240

26 May 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 5

EDUCATION Promising start for community college

Minister opens new €14m school in Adamstown Q PAUL HOSFORD lucan@gazettegroup.com

THE long-awaited official opening of Adamstown Community College took place this week, with Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald on hand to perform the duties.

The school, costing an estimated €14 million, is a co-educational, non-denominational, multicultural school and Minister Fitzgerald was pleased to be on hand to open it.

“It is a great privilege for me to have been invited to officially open Adamstown Community College. At a time of difficulty in our nation’s

history, it is immensely optimistic to be opening a venture of this size and complexity. Adamstown Community College is a wonderful project, which incorporates all that is good and progressive in our society at present, and we should be thankful that it has got off to such a promising start,” said Minister Fitzgerald in her address at the opening.

The opening ceremony heard from Dr Marie Griffin, of the VEC, principal, Des Newton, the deputy principal, Shane Foley, as well as representatives of the Bord of Management, Parent’s Council, staff and student body.

Members of the schools’ choir and dance class were on hand to provide the music and entertainment and the Minister paid special tribute to their creativity.

“Adamstown Community College is a definitively 21st-century school.

It is run on modern lines with ICT at the heart, not only of the instruction, but also the administration of the college, with the facility for parents to become involved through a special e-portal as a window to the progress made in the college.

“Wireless broadband is available throughout the school, and students will keep track of their work, attendance, their

Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald with Dr Marie Griffin, chief executive, County Dublin VEC, after the unveiling of the plaque

books and equipment, the library – and all using a swipe-card system. This is the way forward, and is only currently available in a relatively small number of schools. It will become the norm, and remember the beginnings in Adam-

stown when it does. It is very exciting to be in at the ground floor,” said Minister Fitzgerald.

The Minister went on to acknowledge the excellent work of the staff and VEC and claimed that Adamstown is a shining

example of the way forward, “It is a co-educational, non-denominational, multi cultural school, with the aim of achieving inclusive and integrated education in this area of greater Dublin.”

ACTIVITIES

Griffeen youth summer project REGISTRATION for the Griffeen Summer Project will take place on Monday, May 30, between 7-9pm.

The registration will take place in the Griffeen Youth Centre, Griffeen Glen.

The Summer Project is aimed at youngsters aged 10-19 and offers adventure sports, art, canoeing, fishing, sailing and more.

As some activities are restricted to limited numbers, early registration is strongly advised.

All activities are individually priced and must be paid on registration night.

A parental/guardian consent form is required to be filled out.

For more information, contact Joan Molloy or Mary Greagan on 01 621 7640 or email lucanyouthservice@gmail.com.

6 LUCAN GAZETTE 26 May 2011

IT’S YOUR STORY Clandillon’s mother checks in with Gazette

A special trip to see Doc get married IN THE summer of 2008, Lucan native Doc Clandillon founded the charity Nagarhope. Throughout his time in Nepal, Doc has kept in touch with the Gazette, keeping us up to date on the charity and its work.

This week in a special article, Doc’s mother, Niamh, who recently travelled to Nepal for Doc’s wedding, tells us of her extraordinary trip, Doc’s wedding and how sponsors of the charity are making a difference to the lives of countless children.

This NAGARMAIL is coming to you not from Nepal, but directly from Lucan, Ireland – not from Doc, but from Niamh, Doc’s Mam. We have just spent a month in Nepal and what a month!

Most of you probably know by now that Doc got married on April 25 to Divya, a beautiful Nepali girl. That was the main reason for our trip.

We had never met Divya, though had spoken to her by phone and also by email. So, like all families, we were a little nervous.

We first met her at the airport in Kathmandu on March 31 and felt we had known her for a lifetime.

Over the next few weeks, we got to know her better. She is now part of our family and we are very happy for Doc and Divya and wish them a happy future together.

During our month in Nepal, we were treated royally, both in the parents’ house and in the sister’s house, enjoying traditional dhal bhat in both houses. Little Ojaswe, Divya’s two-year-old niece, was a delight and

indeed decided to call us “new Granny” and “new Granda”.

Nepal is a beautiful country, with absolutely breathtaking scenery, mountains, valleys, greenery. That is in the countryside. All along the way, even in more remote areas, there are little shacks selling vegetables, snacks etc. There are some nice buildings, shared by a few families, but there are also corrugated shacks without light or sanitation where families exist. Modern Ireland wouldn’t even house animals in some of these shacks.

Kathmandu and Bhaktapur are a continuation of each other, just a river separates them. They are big cities, but like nothing in Ireland, almost impossible to describe. There are people everywhere.

There is traffic chaos everywhere and no traffic laws. So taxis, motorbikes, buses, tuk-tuks all battle for “right of way”.

Wedding

Doc and Divya’s wedding was a Hindu wedding held at a temple in a courtyard, all outdoors.

At the beginning, we had umbrellas to protect us from the sun but, unfortunately at the end, we were using the same umbrellas to protect us from very large hailstones and a torrential shower!

The ceremony was very long, about two hours and that was with some parts being cut out in deference to our culture. Normally, the party would be held in a relative’s home but this time,

Doc Clandillon’s family visited Nepal to help celebrate Doc’s wedding and get a chance to see all of the outstanding work he and his wife, Divya, do within the Nagarhope charity

it was in a beautiful hotel in the mountains.

Nagarhope

You have all followed Doc’s Nagarmails over the past few years, but until we actually went to Nepal, we had no idea just how much Doc does.

It is absolutely amazing and we are so, so proud of him.

It was a truly humbling experience to see his work and to see what he has given up to follow his dream. Divya, too, is involved in this great work. She has given up a well-paid teaching job to commit to Nagarhope’s work.

While we sit here in our comfortable homes and do a little bit of fundraising now and then, we can-

not imagine from a mail what exactly is involved or the sheer scale of Doc’s work. It is awe-inspiring.

Doc doesn’t take time off, he is on call all the time.

Hopefully now, his marriage will change that to some degree.

We met most of the Nagarhope Nepal committee, in fact we had our first ever joint Nagarhope meeting, a very interesting experience. They truly appreciate the money being sent from Ireland and put it to very good use.

We went with them to view the proposed site for the children’s home, Doc’s ultimate goal. It was a very suitable piece of land, though we had reservations about the location, as it was a good

hour’s walk, maybe slightly more, from Nagarkot, way down in the valley.

However, in Nepal, that is no great problem for kids walking to school.

In fact, on our bumpy, rocky jeep journey, we passed quite a number of children walking home from school.

We then attended a meeting with the owner of the site and witnessed the bargaining about price, etc. We might as well have been in Ireland! Nothing is finalised yet but it certainly seems a step closer.

Schools/Sponsorkids

The timing of our visit from a school point of view was bad. The school year finished as we arrived.

Then they were closed for

two weeks. We then had the wedding and, after that, it was the new school year when schools were too busy for visits etc. So, we really didn’t get to see schools in action; that will have to wait for our next trip.

Three of Doc’s school projects are in Nagarkot.

Sunrise School

Many of you sponsor children in Sunrise. There are extra classrooms being built there at the moment, so it was dirty and dusty. However, the day we were there was the last day of term and the kids were busy doing their last exams. So, there was no opportunity to take photos.

Continued on Page 8

26 May 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 7

8 LUCAN GAZETTE 26 May 2011

IT’S YOUR STORY: DOC CLANDILLON’S MOTHER CHECKS IN WITH GAZETTE

WOMEN Beauty and style night

Special trip to see Doc get married Continued from Page 6 Kent School

This is a fine building but again it was closed for holidays, so we didn’t visit it.

Mahankali School

Nagarhope sponsors 15 students here though they don’t have individual sponsors as the fees are not so high. The first day we visited here, the students were all there collecting exam results.

Also Doc had the tailor there measuring all the sponsored kids for their uniforms. The new computer room-cum-library was nearly finished and the carpenters were busy trying to get everything in shape for the grand opening.

All the staff and students were there, also representative staff and students from Sunrise and Kent. To hear Doc being respectfully greeted by all as “Doc Sir” was amazing. They were delighted when we presented them with the books, which many of you had donated,

all 25 kilos of them as we discovered when trying to pack!!

Miniland School and Teku Project

Miniland School, where many of you sponsor kids, is in Kathmandu. As Doc has often told you, the sponsor kids are immigrant Indian kids. They are from very poor families and would never be in school without your support. They and their families spend hours scrabbling through the heaps of rubbish along the river looking for anything that they might be able to sell on or recycle.

The sponsored kids come to two rented rooms in Teku for about two hours before school.

Nagarhope rents these rooms. Here Divya teaches them, and helps them with their homework or whatever is needed.

They then go to Miniland School for regular classes.

After school they come back to Divya where again she does whatever is needed to keep them up to scratch.

Umbrella

Doc has often mentioned Umbrella. It is an organisation founded by an Irishwoman which runs eight homes for children, sending them to school and eventually reuniting them with families where possible.

The homes are mostly run by volunteers, all nationalities. Some of you will remember that at the Elvis fundraiser a few years ago, Doc introduced Amy who was going out to Nepal for a few weeks to help Doc. He really didn’t have a lot of work for her and so introduced her to Umbrella. Several years later, Amy is still there.

Hopefully, this mail will encourage you all to keep up your support for Doc and Nagarhope.

We still need sponsors for some children. If you can help or you would like to run a fundraiser, please contact me.

The contact for myself is Niamh at 086 0666891, or niamhclandillon@hotmail. com.

Aliara’s co-founders, Alison Cummins and Tara Lane

Make up your mind for a great night out ALIARA, one of the companies featured on Dragons’ Den in March, and which has a full range of jewellery, handbags and fashion accessories, is running nationwide style parties over the next few weeks.

The Silver Granite’s upstairs lounge, Palmerstown, will host an Aliara party on Friday, May 27, from 7.30pm.

There is no cover charge, and each of these parties are attended by hundreds of ladies, who come along to see the Aliara range of products,

enjoy free style tips and have their nails, hair and make-up done on the night for free.

These are described as “look good, feel great girly nights”, but also act as an opportunity for ladies to speak to members of Aliara about how they can build their own Aliara business, and create a steady source of income for themselves.

Tara Lane, Aliara-cofounder, says: “We run these events to bring the Aliara range of products direct to the customer, and to give them a great

night out.”

As well as saying that a local charity benefits from a percentage of the proceeds, she says: “Potential distributors can see how an event is run, and hear about the income opportunities that Aliara can bring them.

“Everyone benefits, including the local distributor and the local charity [Crumlin Children’s Hospital], and local salons, who can promote their business on the night, and, of course, the ladies who attend, as they get a great night out for free,”

says Tara.

Aliara was pitched to the Dragons in January, and received a very positive reaction.

“We were delighted with the follow-up from Dragons’ Den, and this coverage has allowed us to grow our team of distributors significantly over the last few months; today, 75 people have their own Aliara business,” says Tara.

For further information, see Aliara.ie on Facebook; telephone 087 937 3032, or see www. aliara.ie.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Unequal school funding I HAVE two children in Gaelscoil Eiscir Riada, one of whom has been in the school since the beginning of the school opening.

I’m truly annoyed with the latest situation of funding for our schools.

I really feel, at this stage, that the Government are discriminating against Irish-language schools – Gaelscoil Eiscir Riada has been running since September, 2005, and they are still in prefabs!

I have another child, who will be due to start school in September,

2012, but, unfortunately, if the situation of the school remains the same, there will be no place for my third child.

Gaelscoil Eiscir Riada are already running out of room, as there are 15 teachers and 297 pupils – all in prefabs!

I get really annoyed when I read about the local schools getting funding. All these schools have permanent facilities, and are now going to receive €30 million to have improvements.

Yes, this is great for job creation, but what about the schools that are still in dire need of perma-

nent structures?

Both my children have to wear their coats in the classrooms during the winter, as the prefabs are too cold.

At present, the children get to use the hall if the weather is bad for their sports days, but, again, if the situation stays the same, this room will be unavailable for them to use, as this will be used for another classroom next year.

Our principal, Damhnait Ui Ruairc, is fantastic, but there is only so much she can do.

There have even been electricity bills paid out

[of our fundraising monies], due to the fact that the school hasn’t enough money to pay for their own bills!

All we seem to hear is that all the local schools – especially those such as Educate Together – get all the funding, but what about our children?

Our children are the future, too! Who will continue our national language? Does the Government not care that our national heritage is being lost, or forgotten?

Name and address with editor

26 May 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 9

10 LUCAN GAZETTE 26 May 2011

EVENT Minister Fitzgerald officially opens Adamstown CC

Minister For Children, Frances Fitzgerald, TD

Top-class facility is launched DAMSTOWN Community College, one of the single most modern schools in Ireland, has been officially opened by Minister For Children, Frances Fitzgerald.

Developed and managed by County Dublin VEC, with funding from the Department of Education, the new â‚Ź14 million Adamstown Community College is one of the most modern and best-equipped schools in the State.

This was an opportunity for students, parents and staff to celebrate what they have achieved so far and to look forward to an exciting future for Adamstown Community College.

Pictured with the Minister is Paulita Gulbinaite

Pictured are 1st and 2nd year students Jereena Jose, Nicole Byrne, Charlene Fitzgerald, Filip Broczkowski,

A

Faizan Khald, Osvaldas Sideika, Zeeshan Khalid, Hasnaa Rezk and Saeed Mohammed

The Minister with Dr Marie Griffin, chief executive, County Dublin VEC, after the unveiling of the plaque

1st and 2nd year student at the opening

Home economics Students Erica Clinton, Alysha Lambert Performing Arts student from the College

Pupils sing on stage during the opening ceremony

and Evan Bassett

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 11

ASLAN Dublin heroes make time for Champions League

Working as hard as ever, nearly 30 years on PAUL HOSFORD

NOBODY really notices a 29th birthday. It’s a bit like having a big party for a 20th or a 15th, it’s just not the done thing.

With that in mind, it would be easy for a band like Aslan, just a year shy from celebrating their 30th year as a band, to take the foot off the gas for the 2011 calendar year.

But really, that is not, and never has been, the style of the Dublin heroes.

Their voracious appetite for live shows is legendary, with Aslan arguably covering more ground now than was covered in the Showband era.

With that much effort gone into gigging, it must surely get old. Not so, says the group’s guitarist, Billy McGuinness, who, along with Christy Dignam, Joe Jewell, Alan Downey and Rodney O’Brien, will rock the Clarion in Liffey Valley this Saturday.

“Not at all. We’re about

to enter our 30th year as a band and there is only one reason for that. We gig everywhere because we love playing live. We love the buzz that we get from playing our music live.

“We play a lot of places that other bands would ignore. When you play places, like Midleton in Cork, or Donegal towns that wouldn’t get a lot of gigs, people appreciate it.

“It means that when you’re playing a bigger gig – a Vicar St, Olympia or Point for example – people will come out for it.”

The mantra of play anywhere and everywhere is one that many bands are beginning to adopt in an Irish music scene more and more reliant on live shows for both exposure and money, but most bands will never see some of the venues that Aslan have.

“I suppose the weirdest gigs we’ve ever played were in Mountjoy and

Aslan, top, Billy McGuinness, above left, and Christy Dignam Wheatfield Prisons.

“We were asking when they wanted us, the warden told us we could play whenever, the audience weren’t going anywhere.

“We also played a gig for Irish troops in Kosovo, which was odd. We really enjoyed it, but couldn’t go anywhere because there was still fighting going on.

“But really all gigs are brilliant. Even the last

time we played the Clarion, Bernard Dunne was there, we had a drink with him and that was great.”

The ability to appeal across age lines, as well as to the Irish Diaspora, are also key reasons for Aslan’s enduring stint at the top of the Irish music pile.

“The age range that we see can be nine to 90 and we see so many young people at gigs, knowing

the lyrics to our songs.

“Anywhere there’s Irish people, we can play. We did a tour of Australia last year, we were playing in Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and that’s because anywhere you go, there’s an Irish bar that will either have Crazy World or This Is on it.

“I think we’ve done everything, including break-up!

Continues on Page 12

A PICTURE TELLS A STORY! GOT A GREAT PICTURE, SEND IT TO US! Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email picturedesk@gazettegroup.com

12 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

COMMENT Leader of the opposition reconnects with the party

A magnificent challenge for Fianna Fail

MICHEÁL MARTIN TD

FOLLOWING a difficult General Election, Fianna Fail faces a magnificent challenge in the months ahead, particularly in Dublin.

I believe that we will meet this challenge, renewing the party and reconnecting with communities across our capital city, because Fianna Fáil stems from a great tradition. It stems from a tradition where the needs of the people and the country come first. It will be no easy task, but it will be done.

I have been the leader of Fianna Fáil for less than four months and, in that period, I have travelled the length and

breadth of Ireland. I’m currently meeting members of the party and the public all across Dublin in every constituency.

The message I am getting from the thousands of members and supporters is loud and clear.

It must now be our objective to do our outmost to rectify past errors and to secure a better future for every single person on this island.

If we return Fianna Fail to the core principles that for so many years won the support and loyalty of the Irish people, we will not only renew our party, we will renew a vital, positive force in the life of our nation.

For example, in the area of education, Fianna Fáil was founded as the party

of the ordinary working person 85 years ago and became a vehicle for educational opportunity and social advancement across Ireland. Almost every major milestone in education expansion at all levels owes its origins to visionary Ministers for Education, such as Paddy Hillery and Donogh O’Malley, to name but a few. As the new leader of Fianna Fail, educational advancement for all citizens is at the core of my political philosophy.

I want Fianna Fáil to be the great party it once was and to be in touch and responsive to the needs of people in Dublin and across Ireland.

For this reason, I am determined to open up the Fianna Fáil Party and

ASLAN

30 years of music Continued from Page 11

Micheal Martin TD talking with Cllr Cormac Devlin

I want to see more young people a nd women becoming active in our organisation.

Eamon de Valera said when Fianna Fáil was founded: “We hope in particular that the young people of the country, the young men and women, who have not yet definitely affiliated themselves to any political organisation, will join Fianna Fáil and use it as

a medium through which they will give their services to the community and to the nation.”

I am determined that, in today’s Ireland, Fianna Fail will nurture and promote the involvement of more young people in politics. In Dublin this will be particularly important in the years ahead.

For people interested in making a positive differ-

ence in their community, and for those who want to improve the quality of life in this country, my message is clear: Fianna Fáil is the party of opportunity - where you can help shape policy and where you can make a real difference. Fianna Fáil wants to hear from you. Email your ideas or get information on joining the party at renewal@fiannafail.ie

“I think people like us because we’re so real.

Ever y mistake we’ve made, we’ve been honest about. People see X-Factor, and those people aren’t real.

“People see everything we’ve gone through, we’re honest that we’ve made mistakes. Christy’s book, and the Aslan book, are both very real. And then people see us give 110% to everything we do.”

At the minute, it is all systems go for Aslan, as they prepare to mark an historic 30th year in the business, looking to “tell the story of Aslan”.

These celebrations will be marked with a film, a new studio album and, possibly, a 30th anniversary gig.

Rodney O’Brien, Joe Jewell and Alan Downey

“We want the album to be perfect so we’re taking our time over it. Years ago, we’d lock ourselves away for weeks at a time to do an album, but we can now take our time over it and do days here and there.

“It would be nice to mark the 30th anniversary.”

Aslan play the Clarion Liffey Valley on Saturday, May 28, taking to the stage after the Champions League final. Tickets are €15 and available from the hotel on 01 628 5000.

On July 2, they take to the stage in Vicar St, with tickets available from Ticketmaster, priced at €33.60.

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 13

14 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY Ultimate Girl’s night out in May AN Ultimate Girl’s Night Out will be held in Embody Wellness Centre on May 27.

Free mini-massages, tarot and angel cards, five-minute make-up transformations, winetasting and cool cupcakes will all be available on the night.

Admission is free and all are welcome from 7pm.

For information, phone Grainne on 01 8076795 or find out more on www. embody.ie

LOCAL MATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZETTE CALL 60 10 240

Edited by Dawn Love

Keeping skin healthy and radiant the natural way O you want to be a natural beauty? With a reported 60% of what we put onto our skin absorbed into the bloodstream, it’s easy to see why Hollywood stars, such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Anniston, are big fans of natural skincare brands.

Amongst the most popular is leading German range, Dr Hauschka.

For more than 40 years Hauschka, which is free from synthetic chemical fragrances, colours and preservatives, has established itself as one of the leading natural skincare brands.

Already famed for its Rose Day Cream, Hauschka recently launched its Melissa Day Cream (€23.85) which

D

is designed to help combat combination skin prone to shine. Its daily moisturiser is perfect for those with oily and sensitive skin, helping it regain a healthy balance by stimulating the skin’s natural activity.

The fast-absorbing, oil-free moisturiser with lemon balm provides lasting hydration and oil control, leaving you with a balanced matte complexion. It features other ingredients, including kidney vetch and carrot designed to help smooth the skin’s surface to minimise pores, while witch hazel and revitalising daisy helps refine the skin and leave your complexion soft and even.

In addition to its Melissa Day Cream, Hauschka has also released

three new additions to its Regenerating range this summer, including Regenerating Eye Cream (€65), Regenerating Neck and Decollete Cream (€60) and Regenerating Body Moisturiser (€40).

According to Hauschka, the Regenerating Eye Cream formulation keeps the delicate skin around the eyes, which is thinner than the rest of the face, smooth and supple and minimises the onset of early wrinkles.

The company, which also includes Madonna and Julia Roberts as its devotees, says its Regenerating range helps slow down the skin’s ageing process and restores your natural radiance. Other products include its oilfree Regenerating Serum and Regenerating Day Cream.

Some 60% of what we put onto our skin is absorbed into the bloodstream, so natural products are an option for giving skin a natural glow

Tantastic

And with your skin in tip-top natural shape, it’s time to make sure its Tantastic.

Founded by Dragons’ Den success, Noelle O’Connor, TanOrganic, has is a 100% natural moisturising fake tan.

Noelle originally set about creating her range of products when she couldn’t find a 100% natural moisturising tan on the market.

“Being a pale, fairskinned, freckled Irish woman, and having worn fake tan for over 20 years, I noticed my skin was drying out prematurely.

I did not notice it on my face, as I had only ever applied fake tans to my body.

“Being a beauty therapist, I have always looked after my skin. On my quest for a sunless, tanning product that was nourishing, moisturising and healing on the skin,

Dr Hauschka Regenerating Range

I noticed there were little or none. There were very few organic tans and, on closer research, there were no 100% natural tans. Hence TanOrganic was born. I spent 17 months and a lot of cash researching and testing formulas until the final formula w a s c r a c ke d and that is now TanOrganic.”

On the increasing number of people turning to organic fake tans, Noelle says: “Consumers are becoming increasingly ingredient-conscious

these days. We are now in the same place with organic cosmetics as we were with organic food in the 1990s, and the trend is growing year on year.

“Like food, people want pure ingredients and the knowledge that what they are using is natural and organic. Many clients have allergies to mainstream tanning products and they can cause irritation, where natural and organic tans can be worn with nearly always no reactions.

100% natural TanOrganic

“Because TanOrganic is genuinely 100% natural and organic there are no synthetic ingredients in the tan. There are also no perfumes, which are the number one cause of allergies in skin care.

“I am constantly working on improving my formulae and love to get feedback from my consumers as to what they like and don’t like,” she said.

And, on people who may be dubious about trying organic tanning treatments, Noelle says: “Unfortunately, we have to educate them about the negatives of not using natural and organic, and that many ingredients in mainstream tan can be bad for the skin and cause undue irritations and allergies.”

TanOrganic is priced €34.99 per 240ml bottle.

For more information on TanOrganic visit www. tanorganic.com For details on your nearest stockist of Dr Hauschka log onto www. drhauschkaireland.ie.

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: WHEN, AND WHEN NOT, TO INTERFERE WITH FLEDGLING BIRDS AND NESTS

Time for baby birds to leave their nest H I S we e k I ’ ve received many calls regarding f ledgling birds. This morning alone, I received at least five and all from inexperienced members of the public who’ve discovered that, hey, it’s summer and it’s the time of year when birds tend to breed, with fledglings appearing in some of the most peculiar places.

Of course, all of these caring callers wanted to know how to help these cute, fluffy little “abandoned” creatures!

First of all readers, thank you so much for your calls and for your concerns regarding fledgling birds, we really do appreciate them. As a humane society, and the country’s oldest and largest animal rescue shelter, we strive to promote the compassionate treatment of all animals – baby birds included.

T

However, the fact is, the baby birds don’t need your interference.

They are not as helpless and clumsy as they look and for you, a human, to intervene is not necessarily the best course of action to take.

So, if you’re a concerned citizen who happens to come across a baby bird, here’s what you should do!

Difficult though it is…

LEAVE IT ALONE! It is not abandoned. If you discover a nest, under no circumstances should you touch or move it. This will cause the parents to abandon their babies and such an action by you could be deemed to be illegal.

A Few Facts

Young birds usually leave the nest about two weeks after hatching, just before they’re able to fly.

And round about now,

we’re nearing the end of the first batch, with the second clutch about to be laid.

The fledgling birds will have all, or at least most, of their feathers and will be mobile enough to walk, run and hop from branch to branch. They are being fed by the parent bird, who will not be far away collecting food and will not return to the babies until you, the human intruder, has gone away.

Please bear in mind that the parent bird, (and usually in the bird world it’s both mum and dad who take care of the babies) will encourage the fledglings to disperse into different areas or hideaways, but they still carry on feeding and taking care of them.

They move the babies around because they know predators, such as other birds, cats and foxes will attack them, so

Please bear in mind that the parent bird will encourage fledglings, like this baby thrush, to disperse into different areas but will still take care of them

they try to limit the risk and hide them in various locations around your home and garden. This is a natural system and it has worked successfully for thousands of years.

Do not touch them, move them, or try to “rescue” them.

If you’ve got a cat or a dog who is a danger to the baby birds, then keep your pet indoors or on a lead – this is a temporary measure, the birds will be gone in a couple of days.

And another thing …

If you come across an owl or a hawk that’s on the ground, is alert, is

standing and has feathers, even a few, do not approach. Mum and dad are nearby and teaching him to hunt for ground insects. However, if he’s still there the following day, something may be wrong, so speak to your local vet or animal rescue shelter before you intervene.

If there’s grounded waterfowl in your area – geese, ducks, etc., this is normal. They’ll head off within a few hours of hatching, so don’t worry if you spot little downy babies running around – it’s normal, but you must leave them alone.

I know members of the public have good intentions but, think about it, would you want your new-born babies taken away from you? No! Neither do the birds’ parents.

So, when should you interfere?

• If the bird is clearly in harm’s way, is on a road and there’s a danger of being knocked down, then gently move him to safety to the nearest hedge/bush/garden, but no further and then walk away.

• The bird is clearly injured/incapacitated – call your local vet or res-

www.gazette group.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

cue shelter or the Dublin SPCA – 01-4994700 for help and advice.

• You know for a fact that both parents have been killed or are incapacitated. Again, call your nearest vet/rescue shelter for advice and help.

• If a wing appears substantially droopier than the other wing, if the bird is unable to grip with one foot or if there’s blood, then seek professional help from your vet or animal shelter.

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

16 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

OPINION An historic day in an extraordinary week for Dublin

Yes, he most certainly can!

MIMI MURRAY

IS FEIDIR Linn. Yes we can. Those were the words that sent the most rousing of cheers through an already captive audience listening to the words of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama.

He took to the stage with his wife, the First Lady, Michelle Obama, around 5.45pm on Monday and the crowd went wild for the man whose great, great, great grandfather first set off from Moneygall in County Offaly over 150 years ago in order

to seek his fortune.

The crowd had queued from around 12pm, while some hardy souls spent the night on College Green, eagerly awaiting the man who made history by becoming the first black president of the United States of America.

A cheery crowd were kept upbeat by an array of Irish artists, actors and sports people, all introduced by RTE’s Ryan Tubridy.

Whilst waiting for the main man, several musicians, including Ryan Sheridan, Imelda May, Westlife and the unstop-

pable Jedward warmed up the crowd, which was good as there was a wind blowing on the day that made the First Lady’s hair resemble the blond duo’s wacky quiffs.

The crowd waited with bated breath, wondering if they were going to have an opportunity to shake the hand of someone who has made history.

Tubridy, who spoke excitedly about Obama’s visit, kept giving the crowd regular updates on his impending arrival.

In the meantine Daniel Day Lewis, Stephen Rea and Brendan Gleeson

said a few words or recited poetry. Saoirse Ronan also drew huge cheers from the crowd.

The President’s seal, seen so often on television and in the movies, was placed on the speaking platform and the audience knew it was almost time.

Then, quite suddenly Taoiseach Enda Kenny and his wife Fionnuala walked on to the stage, and the weather-beaten masses knew the wait was almost over.

Kenny gave a rousing speech and looked as proud as punch as he

introduced the most powerful man in the world to the waiting Irish audience.

Barack and Michelle walked on stage, holding hands and looking happy and relaxed. Perhaps it was the drop of the black stuff that he had sampled earlier in Moneygall but Obama couldn’t stop grinning and protectively rubbed Michelle’s shoulder as Kenny finished his speech.

The chant “Obama, Obama, Obama” rippled through the crowd and finally everyone got their first words from one of the world’s great orators.

“Hello, Dublin, hello, Ireland. My name is Barack Obama – of the Moneygall Obamas. And I've come home to find the apostrophe that we lost somewhere along the way.” Yes, the man certainly knows how to charm an audience.

From there he went on to say that both our nations have faced great trials in recent years, “including recessions so severe that many of our people are still trying to fight their way out”.

However, he left the audience with this parting shot: “Ireland… if anybody ever tells you that your problems are too big, or your challenges are too great, that we can't

President Barack Obama charms the Dublin crowd

do something, that we shouldn't even try, think about all that we've done together. Remember that, whatever hardships the winter may bring, springtime is always just around the corner. And if they keep on arguing with you,

just respond with a simple creed: Is féidir linn.

Yes, we can. Yes, we can.

Is féidir linn.”

With that note the crowd started to disperse, looking weather-beaten but with a lighter spring to their step.

GazetteContacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251 Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com

General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com

Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com

Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com

News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com

Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com

Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com

Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com

Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazetteGAMING GAMING WIN a Kinect sensor T for Xbox

HE Gazette is continuing its incredible Xbox Kinect sensor competition this week, as we give away the second of four prizes.

Kinect for Xbox 360 brings games and entertainment to life in extraordinary new ways, without using a controller With Kinect, technology evaporates, letting the natural magic in all of us shine. Controller-free gaming means full-body play.

Kinect responds to how you move. So, if you have to kick, then kick. If you have to jump, then jump. You already know how to play.

All you have to do is get off the couch, “plug in” to your Xbox 360 console, and jump in to experience game play.

Kinect Sports allows you to say goodbye to the buttons and controllers, and play six full sports games just as you always

have, using your entire body.

Become the heavyweight champ of the living room with boxing, or take to the sand with some high-flying beach volleyball action.

Everyone With soccer, field and track events, and even bowling, Kinect Sports has something for everyone.

Meanwhile, Kinect Adven-

tures will have you jumping, dodging, and kicking your way through 20 pulse-pounding adventures, set in exotic locations around the world.

Kinect Adventures gets you to work with your friends and navigate through roaring rapids, challenge obstacle courses, and even save a leaky underwater laboratory.

The spirit of adventure awaits!

WIN A KINECT SENSOR AND TWO KINECT GAMES

LAST WEEK’S WINNER:

To be in with a chance to win a Kinect Sensor and two Kinect games, to use with your XBox 360 console, just answer the following question.

How many adventures are contained in Kinect Adventures?

Post your answer to Kinect Competition, Gazette Group Newspapers, Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan, Co Dublin.

Alternatively, you can email competition@gazettegroup.com. All entries must be received before Wednesday, June 1.

Congratulations to Clive Stone of Dublin 15, who was the Week One winner of the Xbox Kinect Sensor and games

18 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs MERCEDES BENZ HAS NEW VAN FINANCE DEAL:

MERCEDES-BENZ in Ireland has launched a new van purchase finance scheme, which opens up a line of funding that would assist small businesses planning to upgrade their transport fleet.

The finance scheme has been designed to unblock the lending logjam that has prevented many owners from acquiring or replacing their van fleet.

This new scheme provides finance over periods from three to five years, upon payment of a “modest” deposit. Confined to the purchase of new vehicles only, the scope of the plan can also be extended to include maintenance costs. Mercedes-Benz van dealers can facilitate buyers by agreeing a residual value that would be placed on each vehicle after the finance term has expired.

NEW SAAB DEAL WITH CHINA’S PANGDA AUTOMOBILE: IT’S been a difficult few weeks for Saab and for its owners the Dutch Spyker Cars NV. Last week, they had a deal with one Chinese investor, which fell through at the last minute.

The latest news is that China’s Pangda Automobile Trade Co Ltd has entered into a deal, which it said would secure Saab’s medium-term funding needs and with EU approval.

The deal involves an agreement to buy Saab vehicles for as much as €45 million and to take a 24% equity stake in Spyker for a total of €65 million.

The new Lexus CT200h is a premium smaller car that has a quality-build feeling to it in terms of smoothness. With an entry price of €28,980 it’s still competitive in price and running costs with some of the other turbo-diesels on the market.

Lexus hatches CT200h MICHAEL MORONEY has been out in the new Lexus CT200h, which is a compact, hybrid petrol hatchback and here he gives his verdict EXUS and quality have been synonymous, but that emphasis has been at the more expensive and bigger car end of the market. Enter the CT200h, a car with more compact dimensions that’s still comfortable on the quality street.

This new car is a hatchback that retains the Lexus premium badge. Lexus see the car as a solid competitor to smaller diesel cars, where running-cost efficiency is so important.

I had seen photographs of the car long before I took it for a lengthy test drive. The photographs didn’t give the feeling for its size and style – it was a little smaller than

L

SPECS: LEXUS CT200H HYBRID Top speed: 180 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 10.3 sec Economy: 26.3 km/litre (3.8l/100km) CO2 emissions: 87g/km Road Tax Band: A (€104) Scrappage Eligible: Yes Warranty: 3 years Entry Price: €28,450

I had expected, a little less SUV or crossover in appearance.

This is a neat, five-door hatchback that has all of the features you expect, topped off with Lexus smooth and very quiet driving style. To me, it’s a real competitor with some of the current diesel-powered small hatchback cars.

Like all Lexus models, there’s loads of technology in the CT200h. I would prefer if they could think of a better name – there’s no ring to the CT200h, it just doesn’t roll easily off the tongue.

The CT200h is a petrol hybrid car designed to compete against the likes of the diesel-powered Audi A3, BMW 1 Series and even the Volkswagen Golf. Lexus has set new and impressive petrolefficiency standards with this car.

The 1.8-litre petrol engine is incredibly smooth to drive. The hybrid system engages without effort to give a power boost that’s lively but not trend-setting.

But you will notice

when you want the engine and hybrid drive to work together; the car sort of roars at you, but not in a strong way, more as a way of telling you that it’s doing some work. That’s the only time that you realise that there’s an engine under the bonnet.

The car scores well in terms of economy.

With an achievable figure of 26.3 km/litre (3.8l/100km) this is the envy of diesel power.

In terms of running costs, the CT200h is a match for modern diesel engines.

Add to that the low annual tax rate of €104, plus a once-a-year service or 10,000km, and you have a car that can com-

pete in cost terms with the diesel competition.

And all that is achieved with a 0 to 100km/hr rating of 10.3 seconds – that’s fast enough for most of us. That’s a shade slower than the BMW 118d, Audi A3 2.0-litre TD Sportback and the VW Golf 2.0-litre TD, but there’s only a mere second in the difference.

I took the CT200h for some lengthy drives covering almost 600km through a range of roads.

The outstanding feature is its smoothness. The comfort is good, if not a shade soft, on some of the smaller rural roads – that’s not really a complaint.

The car drives through an automatic gearbox

that’s controlled by a short stubby lever on the centre console. I found that it was very sensitive and took a little getting used to, and then it was a pleasure.

The car is smaller than I had expected from the photographs. I found that the headroom front and rear was a bit tight.

Rear legroom is not over-generous either, but that’s the same for the BMW 118d, with which it competes.

This car can truly compete in purchase price, and running costs, with the diesel competition.

The car is competitively priced at €28,450 or £23,485 in Nothern Ireland, but it just doesn’t seem to look expensive.

Audi Ireland turns the sod for new Audi dealership in Sligo AUDI Ireland turned the sod for a new Audi dealership in Sligo scheduled to open at the end of the year. Audi Sligo will be owned and operated by Kevin and Neil Connolly, who have invested €5 million in the dealership, which hopes to create 20 new jobs in the

Sligo region.

The future Sligo dealership is major part of a five-year investment plan by Audi in Ireland to become the number one prestige car brand in Ireland by 2015. Audi is undertaking a restructuring of the franchise retail network with

a collective investment of €80 million over the next three years. This will result in a nationwide network of 10 dedicated Audi dealerships servicing the whole country.

Andrew Doyle, managing director, Audi Ireland said: “Together with our

franchise partners, we will continue to make significant long-term investments in people, facilities and systems, here in Ireland. Today’s announcement is an important part of our drive to become the number one prestige car brand in Ireland by 2015.”

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY STRAFFAN: FIVE-BEDROOM HOME FOR ASKING PRICE OF €560,000

A Gate to comfort and security

Number 2, Texas Lane, Malahide

MALAHIDE: ASKING PRICE OF €545,000

Round up a property coup on Texas Lane PROPERTY Team Noel Kelly Auctioneers are bringing 2 Texas Lane, Chalfont, Malahide, a four-bedroom semi-detached family home offering bright and generously proportioned accomodation and a flexible layout, to the market with an asking price of €545,000.

The property has been extended thoughout and is situated in a much-sought after location.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with guest wc, which has a cermaic tiled floor, garage conversion with wooden floors, two reception rooms and an extended kitchen/breakfast area which has fitted wall and floor units - all electrical appliances are included in the sale.

The landing offers access to the attic, and the upper level features the four bedrooms in the property, the larger of which have built-inn wardrobes, while all have timber flooring.

The family bathroom has a tiled floor and walls and a Triton T90i shower.

Thr garden of Texas Lane has a deck area, a timber garden shed, and is fully walled.

To the front, there is a cobblelock driveway as well as a side entrance.

Located beside Malahide estuary, the property is within walking distance of Malahide village, local schools and the Dart station.

Viewing is by appointment, which can be arranged by contacting Darren Kelly of Property Team Noel Kelly Auctioneers on 01 8462752.

COONAN Estate Agents are bringing Number 52, Straffan Gate in Straffan village to the market for an asking price of €560,000.

The property is a fivebedroom dual-aspect detached house, located in a sought-after development in the heart of Straffan village.

Finished to the highest standards and presented in pristine condition throughout, this property boasts large, bright spacious living accommodation.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall, with reception area and guest bathroom, sitting room with bay window,

Number 52, Straffan Gate has an asking proce of €560,000

feature fireplace with a granite hearth, dining room with a double bay window, and a kitchen/ dining room with solid wooden f loor, patio door to garden, recessed lights, wall and floor units, a granite work-

top, NEFF extractor fan, hob and double oven, and an integrated dishwasher.

The first f loor features a large master bedroom with built-in wardrobe and en suite with shower, four more

bedroom with builtin wardrobes, and the family bathroom.

The property also has wooden, double-glazed windows throughout, stainless-steel light fittings and sockets, a pressurised shower sys-

tem and a maintenancefree exterior.

The property features a large south-facing garden and a cobble-lock driveway with parking spaces for up to three cars.

Located only a short walk from Straffan Village and only a short drive to the University town of Maynooth, Celbridge and Clane, and only a 40-minute drive to Dublin City, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Coonan Estate Agents can be contacted to arrange a viewing of Straffan Gate on 01-6286128 or 01-6288400.

ADAMSTOWN: ATTRACTIVE PAYMENT PLAN OPTIONS AVAILABLE

Discerning buyers drawn to bargains FOR discerning property buyers looking for real value, Castlethorn’s popular development at Adamstown Square in Lucan is well worth a visit.

The price of a two-bed apartment is €135,000, and it boasts an extremely high level of specification, is located close to the main attractions of Adamstown, including local shops, schools and its train station.

For those looking for a larger home, there are new, three-bed duplex units located on the second and third floors, with over 1,000 sq ft accommodation and a spacious balcony at an asking price of €165,000.

Similarly-sized ground-floor, three-bed duplexes with private amenity areas start from €185,000. In addition, there are a small number

of three- and four-bed houses available from €235,000 and €249,950 respectively.

In total there are six fully-fitted showhomes on view at Adamstown Square, ranging from two-beds right up to fourbed townhouses, so there is plenty of choice for the price-conscious homehunter.

Adamstown Square has an excellent level of specification in all the homes. All master bedrooms are very generous in size and are fitted with en suites.

In addition, purchasers will benefit from modern, fitted kitchens, complete with oven/hob, fridgefreezer, dishwasher and washer/dryer. All homes are designed to comply with Sustainable Energy Ireland’s House of Tomorrow programme in terms

There are a number of home types at Adamstown Square

of their energy- efficient ratios and the BER rating of each home is very high.

Taking cognisance of the difficulties and concern’s that today’s house purchasers may be facing, Castlethorn is providing a wide range of options that will assist the homeowner in purchasing their new home, including a home-

deposit advance option, which lets purchasers reserve their home today with no deposits payable until closing, and Easi steps is also available, which lets purchasers move in today and pay monthly instalments for a period of up to two years.

These instalments are then taken off the purchase price of the home

when the purchaser closes the sale.

The Adamstown marketing suite and show units are open everyday, weekends from 3-5 and weekdays from 10-5.

For further information on the great value available at Adamstown Square phone Leah’ys 6011800 or log onto www. castlethorn.ie

26 May 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Sarah Carberry, Secretchic.ie

No secret to Sarah’s online dress success SARAH Carberry, of Secretchic.ie, an Irish Online Designer Dress Rental service, grew up in Malahide and now lives in Portmarnock.

She went to school in Scoil Iosa in Malahide and then to The Institute on Lesson Street. Sarah started her career in PR six years ago with McGovern Public Relations, one of the longest established marketing and PR firms in Ireland, and is an industry she is still involved with. “PR is a passion and I love what I do but, like most girls, I love fashion!”

Two years ago she was at various events and weddings and was spending a lot of money for dresses she usually only wore once. “I thought to myself, there has to be a way you can rent dresses.” But, at that time, she was not aware of any other options. It was then she came up with the idea on an online rental store – and www.secretchic.ie was born. No one seemed to be doing it in Ireland, but it is big business in the USA and UK. Secretchic.ie features casual and evening styles (sizes 6-16) from labels such as Just Cavalli, Vivienne Westwood, John Galliano, By Malene Birger, Juicy Couture, D&G and many more.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS SAVING FOR YOUR CHILDREN Q – We have two girls aged seven and five.

We have not made any provision for their education, though they will both be going to a non-fee paying local secondary school. But already the extra-curricular activity costs are mounting up and we need to motivate ourselves to start saving. What do you suggest ? Colette – Lucan Co Dublin A – According to a recent UK insurance company study, it will cost over € 246,000 from the time your child is born until the time they finish their third level education. You have already spent a great deal of money on your girls – since they were born, probably, around € 130,000, but are unaware of it! €10,000 a year per child is the estimated ongoing cost. It is no wonder you cannot save.

Q&A

However, it is not going to get any better for the next few years so you MUST start saving, and now.

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

A: A singer – mind you I don’t

Q: What air carrier do you use when going on holidays?

A: I am not really loyal to any

have a note in my head.

particular air carrier. I always try to get the best deal I can

Q: What was your first job?

A: Worked in a coffee shop in

A recent bank report stated third-level costs alone, from start to finish, at € 42,000 for ONE child, and that’s without the fees.

To put this into perspective, if you save the Sarah Carberry, of Secretchic.ie

Malahide.

Q: What car do you drive?

A: Mercedes

for you. My favourite drink is a Cosmo… yum, love them.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: Blew it on clothes.

Q: Can you swim?

A: Yes – I love it and should do

Q: How many people do you have to talk with every day?

A: Up to 20 people.

it more often.

Q: How many times each week do you go to the ‘hole in the wall’?

A: Too many!

Q: What is the greatest thrill of your working week?

A: To hear someone loved the dress or hat that they rented.

Q: And what part of your job do you dislike the most?

A: There isn’t really much I dislike. There will always be likes and dislikes of running your own company, but that is what makes it interesting.

Q: Would you ever bungee jump?

A: I used to want to do one but now I don’t think I would – way too scared.

Q: Do you play any sport?

A: I run and go to Curves and Hot Yoga

Q: What is your favourite food and drink?

A: I don’t really have a favourite food. I love most food and, in particular, food that is bad

Q: How many times each year do you shop for clothes?

A: I shop for clothes on a regu-

current € 140 monthly Child Benefit for your five-

Q: Where is your favourite holiday destination?

A: Italy – amazing, love the food, scenery and the people.

Really interesting place.

Q: What other job in the whole world would you really like to have?

A: I would like to possibly be a

lar basis.

marine biologist.

Q: What is the name of your favourite shop?

A: River Island and Forever

Q: When do you wish to retire?

A: I am not sure.

21 – I can’t choose which is my favourite!

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

A: I am not sure but I will have

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Over 20, and I don’t even

to be doing something, as I get bored quite easily.

wear most of them.

year-old, add € 110 per month to it and keep saving until your child is 18, at 3% interest rate each year, over those 13 years, the monthly saving of €250 will amount to that target of €42,000, and that’s just for ONE child.

Therefore, you have to plan and plan to save.

Just like Christmas, birthdays and anniversaries – they come around every year and you have to provide for them. You certainly do not want to be the parent that stops your daughters going on that special school trip, those two weeks in Irish College, that summer camp – even that hockey stick costs at least € 70!

I would recommend that you immediately start putting the Child Benefit into a Regular Saver account (saving between € 100 and € 1,000 per month for 12 months and attracting rates up to 4% - most deposit takers offer them) and when you have accumulated at least € 2,000, deposit this into a high-yielding, 12-month fixed rate

Chevron Training launch innovative mobile training units

account.

CHEVRON Training, Ireland’s largest private training provider, is renowned as the leading provider of renewable energy and environmental training courses.

Chevron Training’s career-focused approach to the provision of training courses was instrumental in securing the coveted Best Training Company

Remember also the Money Doctor mantra – STOP

and Overall Business of the Year accolades at the Wexford Business Awards in 2010.

This continued recognition is illustrated by Chevron Training being shortlisted for three prestigious awards at the 2011 Wexford Business Awards, namely the Wexford Training Provider Award, Wexford Green

Business Award and the Wexford Employer of the Year Award.

Innovation

Chevron Training is honoured to have been shortlisted for each of these awards, as they acknowledge the individuals and businesses that represent the entrepreneurialism, innovation,

diversity and the talent in Wexford businesses.

Chevron Training’s innovative approach towards the delivery of training programmes is illustrated by their significant investment in the development of Ireland’s first fleet of mobile training units.

These next-generation training venues allow

the practical renewable energy and environmental training programmes to be delivered in any location nationwide, thus facilitating increased access to further education.

For further information about Chevron Training courses, lo-call 1890 252 647 or visit www.chevrontraining.ie

Look for savings on everything from careful budgeting to looking for bargains – everywhere.

SPENDING, AND IF YOU MUST, ENSURE BEST VALUE. Ask yourself when buying a product or service, do you really need this and, if you do, is there a better or cheaper alternative ? The best of luck with your saving.

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

22 GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel The west is the best for a romantic getaway trip Travel to the stunning north of Spain on a luxury train this summer on the Gran Lujo Transcantabrian

IMAGES of Hercule Poirot, cocktail hour and afternoon tea spring to mind when luxury train travel is mentioned. This mode of transport is a stunning way to see Northern Spain this summer, with several options available to the discerning traveller.

From May to September, the luxury CrossCantabrian train will travel between San Sebastian and Santiago de Compostela, an eight-day journey, with seven nights on board.

The Gran Lujo Transcantabrian is one of the five best tourist trains in the world, and the oldest in Spain. It has been transformed into a spectacular and seductive five-star train-hotel. It has seven sleeping cars, four lounge cars and a kitchen car. There is an attractive panoramic lounge containing televisions, library and video library, a restaurant car and tea salon where the gastronomic specialities of each area through which the train passes are served. The four sleeping cars contain 14 elegant Privilege Suites, each of which boasts a large double bed, ample wardrobe space for clothing and suitcases, a small lounge, two TV sets, a video player, a games console, a music centre, a computer with free internet connection, cordless telephone, double air conditioning, minibar, and a full bathroom with hydromassage shower and steam sauna.

The La Robla Express in another train that has been improved and upgraded for 2011 and offers travellers fascinating visits to the worldrenowned Romanesque towns of Carrion de los Condes, Fromista and Villalcazar de Sirga. The trip, which takes four days and three nights operates from March to November.

The Las Robla Express carries 54 passengers in nine coaches, with comfortable lounge cars, and a bar with large projection screens. Sleeping compartments have couchette style fold-out beds, wardrobe, music and telephone connections and bathrooms with hydromassage shower.

For maximum comfort, the train remains stationary overnight in the stations its visits.

Further information from www.trenesturisti cosdelujo.com

MIMI MURRAY

IRISH weather, as we all know, is not to be relied upon. When Americans and Italians holiday here, they come well-prepared, not batting an eyelid when the downpour inevitably ensues.

However, for we Irish holidaying at home, it is another opportunity to screw up our noses, give the grey skies the evil eye, and curse the country of our birth.

The French and Germans throw on the windcheaters, and nod knowingly at each other when another torrent threatens, but we Irish despair as yet another trip falls foul of the weather.

For that reason, it is proper order to book yourself in somewhere luxurious, so that, when the inevitable happens, the plush indoor surroundings will more than make up for the goings on outside.

That’s not to say that we can’t button up and head for the open air on a grand, soft day – just like our foreign visitors – but for us Irish, who are so used to the constant grey and drizzle, we just expect the gods of sunshine and blue skies to shine on us when we decide to take a trip at home.

For this reason, my husband and I decided

to stay somewhere rather nice when we took a trip to the west, earlier this month.

The Atlantic coast can be stunning, but the ocean also likes to make its presence felt from time to time, as we were about to discover on our romantic weekend.

On our first night we stayed in Gregan’s Castle, which is situated in the heart of The Burren, and is surrounded by stunning gardens, with breathtaking views of Galway Bay. We arrived early on Friday, to be greeted by our host, Simon Haden. We

friendly host in Gregan’s said that should I find myself being lifted by a swift gust, to make sure to take the hubby with me.

He was only half-joking.

It was back to the hotel for some much-needed warming up, and a predinner drink, before taking our table at the pretty restaurant, which, again, had lovely views of Galway bay.

The menu seemed adventurous, but my husband and I were not prepared for what was about to come. Why does this place not have a Michelin Star, we mused?

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

‘We retired early, but the Atlantic made an almighty racket that night – but that made us appreciate the plush surroundings and our open fire all the more’ --------------------------------------------------------

were taken straight to our extremely spacious room, which had very pretty views of both The Burren and the ocean.

We decided not to rest on our laurels, and to make good use of the slightly blue sky on offer.

The Cliffs of Moher are stunning, but a word of warning – wear winter clothes, even if it is the height of summer.

The wind whips around the headland, and our

The chef, Mickael Viljanens, who is Finnish, has been with the hotel for six years. Simon says that Michelin are watching them at the moment, but no stars have appeared just yet. I am certain this will be resolved in time.

My husband’s starter of cheese and onion was a delicious broth and cheese combo that was warming on a chilly day, and my lobster was delicious.

The pigeon, which I ordered with some trepidation, as it was to be cooked very pink, was stunning. I am still dreaming about it. My hubby’s lamb was equally good, and all of the flavours are experimental, but work really well together.

A pre dessert of lime panna cotta with fennel was extraordinary, and the entire meal was a triumph. I would highly recommend this place to gourmands looking for somewhere fantastic in the west.

After a delicious meal, we took a seat beside the open fire to pore over the Queen’s visit, before retiring early.

On Saturday, we awoke to torrential rain and gales, and a surfing lesson which we had booked for that day was looking extremely unlikely.

My brave other half decided he was going to give it a lash anyway, but I decided the open fires and beautiful views at our next hotel, Moy House, were calling to me instead.

He went off to Lahinch beach for a lesson with Ben’s Surf Clinic, as I reviewed the Saturday papers, while sipping a peppermint tea.

We were staying in the Well Room, which features an original underground well, and a free-

A lovely break in Gregan’s

standing bath tub, as well as an open fire – all you could need for a romantic weekend in the west of Ireland.

Our well-lit conservatory offered amazing views of the ocean, and the dinner area also overlooks the sea, and we were to be treated to a sunset of sorts after the weather cleared – slightly.

Salad of crab and Dublin Bay prawns was very nice, as were his scallops. My lamb was delicious, and my husband said the turbot was a lovely light dish. The staff were really attentive and lovely as well.

We retired early, but the Atlantic had other ideas for us, and it made an almighty racket that night, but that made us appreciate the plush surroundings and our open fire all the more.

For information on both properties, see www. irelands-blue-book.ie.

R1

26 May 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs Mary Black performing at Bridge House Hotel in June MARY Black is back and performing in the Bridge House Hotel in Offaly this June.

The singer has just released her new album after a six-year gap and to celebrate, the hotel is offering guests the chance to dine, see the show and stay overnight. At her concert in the Bridge House Hotel, Mary will give a taste of her new material along with some classic hits including No Frontier, Woman’s Heart and many more.

Tickets are available for €25, but guests can treat themselves to an overnight stay and dinner in the Bridge House’s Michelin Guide recommended restaurant, including a ticket to the show for €109 per person sharing.

Also coming to the Bridge House Hotel on August 1 is a night with the Wolfe Tones. Tickets are available for €25 or stay overnight with dinner and a ticket to the show for €99 per person sharing. For more information, contact the Bridge House Hotel on 057 932 5600 or visit www.bridgehouse.com.

Mustard Seed Hotel offers a special Box Room offer

Castle (above, and below) was followed with an equally delightful break at Moy House (below, right)

THE Mustard Seed Hotel in Limerick has a special Box Room Offer running at the moment. One of the Blue Book’s stunning hotels, the package allows guests to stay in one of the smaller, but perfectly formed rooms at a reduced rate. Relax during the evening and avail of the hotels excellent overnight rate.

Rooms include en suite with power shower, TV, telephone and regular size double bed. Rate also include full Irish breakfast. Four course dinner costs €63, or there are special value menus available. Rooms cost €65 per person sharing. For more details contact 069 68508 or email mustard@indigo.ie.

Park Hotel offers two-night package during The Tall Ship Races THE Tall Ships are set to sail into Dungarven this June, with three extraordinary days of festival taking place, and the Park Hotel is the perfect place to stay in order to be in the thick of the action. After three exciting days from June 30 to July 3, a Parade of Sail will take place along the Waterford and Wexford estuary, as Ireland once again hosts The Tall Ships Races.

This is one of the most spectacular and colourful events in the world, and Waterford is gearing up to host over 70 majestic Tall Ships; 1,500 sail trainees and an anticipated 500,000 maritime, music and festival fans on the quays of Ireland’s oldest city. The Park Hotel has a two night package with full Irish breakfast each morning from €129pps, subject to availability. For information visit www.flynnhotels.com.

24 LUCAN GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT THE HELIX 01 700 7000 YOPS and friends MUSIC returns to The Helix with a delightful performance from Young Orchestral Pops orchestra, and friends. The Young Orchestral Pops – also known as Yops – will be demonstrating the skills that has seen them performing in such notable venues as Dublin Castle, the Salt mines in Krakow and St Nicholas’ church in Prague, and will be joining with St Clare’s PS children’s choir, Harold’s Cross, and flute group, Flutistics, to perform a selection of light classical, popular and traditional favourites With tickets priced at €12, the concert starts at 3pm on Sunday, May 29.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Time Warp TAKE2 Performing Arts School will draw upon the members’ considerable talents to present Time Warp – A Trip And Tweet through the decades.

Using song, dance and performance, the Take2 members will present a memorable trip through time, presenting some memorable events and eras with ease, giving the audience something to think – and Tweet – about. Time Warp runs at 6pm on Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29, with admission priced €12.50/€8.50.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Bealtaine 2011

“You better think how to hide the evidence of a house party before mom comes home ...” Greg (Zachary Gordon) temporarily has the

THE annual festival that commemorates older members of the community, Bealtaine is once again being commemorated at Draiocht with a range of events, before drawing to a close on Tuesday, May 31. With a wide-ranging programme of events, Draiocht has imaginatively marked and celebrated the wit, wisdom, skills and contribution of our elders, with events in everything from cinema to dance to highlight the importance of older citizens. To see the remaining events, and to help mark Bealtaine, see www.draiocht.ie.

advantage over his older brother, and chief tormentor, Rodrick (Devon Bostick), in an inoffensive new family film

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Gala Summer Concerts WITH summer just a ray of sunshine away, the Pavilion Theatre plays host to Dun Laoghaire School of Music, who are hosting their 18th annual gala summer concerts, marking a musical treat for all.

With students ranging from the very young to mature musicians, the School will showcase some of the varied activities and musical styles studied and practised, all presented in a delightful programme that will cover a wide range of music, ushering in the summer in style. The concerts will be held at 5pm and 7.30pm, on Friday, May 27, with admission priced at €16, €12 and €9.50.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Grumpy Old Women THESE ladies are not to be messed with, as they are treading the (creaking) boards to bring some middleaged mayhem to life and settle some scores they have with aging, men, the way things work and much more, in bad-tempered, contrary and hilarious ways.

They don’t come much grumpier than Adele King, Flo McSweeney and Una Crawford O’Brien, who are presenting their version of the hit West End show with a distinctly Irish version. Grumpy Old Women is running until Saturday, May 28, with tickets priced from €25 to €30.

Not awesome/awful Kate’s heavyweight opinion squares up to A Wimpy Kid – but, she says, the kid’s not brilliant, but he’s all right ...

Q KATE CROWLEY

WHILE older Gazette viewers may rejoice at the release of The Hangover: Part 2 – Sorry folks, that’s not what I’m reviewing.

Instead, as tempting as it is to wander along with shmucks with bucks and drinks, I’m going to wimp out, and talk about Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules, instead.

After all, it’s been a while since we’ve had a kid movie, so, let’s tag along with an Americanstyle “wimpy” kid ...

To use its full title, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules is the sequel to an earlier children’s film which, being 103, I haven’t seen, which means I’m approaching this with fresh, if somewhat lined, eyes.

In a somewhat busy film, a young kid Greg (Zachary Gordon) is having a typically awful time with his older brother,

FILM OF THE WEEK: Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2 +++ (G) 98 mins Director: David Bowers Starring: Zachary Gordon, Devon Bostick, Rachael Harris, lots and lots of ordinary children, US movie-style

OUR VERDICT: ALTHOUGH, perhaps, a little baffling to older viewers who may have forgetten the trials and tribulations of trying to fit in at school, and deal with older/younger siblings, as well as being steeped in Americana, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules is okay. Neither brilliant nor awful, it’s a middling film that should entertain well enough, until something better comes along ...

the much-hated Rodrick (Devon Bostick), whose sole purpose in life seems to be to torment him. So far, so older brother.

Greg’s life is hard enough, seeing as he’s firmly locked into his school’s nerd squad; a gang comprising the usual suspects of Fat Kid, Indian Transfer Student, Bizarre Geek, and so on.

Compared to this bunch of carefree “losers”, Greg is positively normal, but he just can’t get along with Rodrick.

When their parents disappear for a weekend, leaving the boys behind

to bond (social workers can step back from the rescue wagon, as I should point out that Rodrick’s old enough to be Greg’s responsible guardian for a few days – in theory, at least), an inevitable house party sees the house filled with unruly teens, while the geeks also use Greg as their Trojan horse to get inside, and chaos ensues.

The next day, with their parents’ inevitable call to say they’re coming home early, the boys have to frantically cover up the evidence of the party, and just about get away with it, too, earning Greg

some respect from his big brother.

For a while. But, Ferris Bueller-types they are not; lacking that character’s guile, the party is soon uncovered, and the boys are immediately back to their battling selves, with Greg trying to become cool at school, and Rodrick trying to impress with his band.

Events roll along, all leading up towards a climactic talent show that both brothers want to win. Now, how can Greg impress with a magic act that might make Paul Daniels hesitate, and is Rodrick really someone that his band still want playing along in their chance for a big break?

Perhaps it’s time for “a wimpy kid” to show that other people don’t know the things he can really do, and that he can even impress his older brother.

Now, that really would be magic ...

Despite my great age

and immediately obvious wisdom, I confess that I’m still permanently baffled by the American grade system, or how their schools work, or how or why the kids in these films are always obssessed with breaking out of their school’s caste/social strata system, so, in my worst nu-speak, I can’t find many of these situations “relatable”.

It’s all harmless enough family fare; predictable and inoffensive, but I imagine that plenty of children will find it amusing enough – though not, I’m sure, to be really great.

On the plus side, even though it feels like a glorified TV movie, rather than a must-see children’s film, at least it’s not A) another lame computer animated film; B) presented in clumsily implemented 3D; and C) is unlikely to give any older viewers a headache.

Or a hangover.

26 May 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 25

Talking about Mona make Microsoft’s a brisk debut Skype deal MUSIC: ONES TO WATCH

ROB HEIGH news@gazettegroup.com

ADAM MAGUIRE

IN WHAT is one of the biggest ever tech deals, Microsoft has bought video and voice chatting service, Skype, for €8 billion.

The deal raised plenty of eyebrows, and is sure to have left Google and Facebook, both of whom were rumoured to be interested, too, scratching their heads.

So, what does Microsoft want with Skype?

There are plenty of ways to chat with people online, but Skype is one of the best.

Over the years, it has developed a robust system to let people talk via voice and video calls, and it even rivals standard landline phones when it comes to quality.

Microsoft will use this as a feature to add to its own products. It will likely become a built-in feature of Windows. and even the Xbox 360 console in the future.

Skype will integrate well with the webcams Microsoft sells, and it will probably tie in with Microsoft’s mobile phone platform eventually too.

Millions of users Skype has more than 660 million registered users of the service and, while Skype has a free option, a handful of them pay to gain extra features, such as calls to landlines.

Microsoft will likely try to encourage those users to try out other things it makes in the future.

Talk is social Microsoft has not done too well in social media so far – Facebook, and Twitter, have stolen the

show, there.

While Skype is not a social network in itself, it is certainly full of potential as a part of a wider social network in the future.

If Microsoft can integrate Skype into a website of its own, it could gain an edge over others on the market

Playing defence Reports were swirling around in recent weeks that Facebook and Google wanted to strike deals with Skype to integrate the product into services they already had.

Microsoft, which sees both these companies as its main online rivals, swooped to snatch up Skype before anyone else could. In the long run, it might prove to be the smartest move they have made in a long time.

HP Photosmart Premium c310a The HP Photosmart Premium c310a (above) packs in a whole host of features that will make you wonder if you have a computer, as opposed to a printer, as it is a “web connected” printer.

This device’s unique

selling point is its direct access to smartphone-like apps, which offer unique and printable content that can be downloaded and installed straight onto the printer, meaning you do not need a computer to be connected, and offers some novel features and handy resources.

For example, one app will let you print off pictures of cartoon characters for children to colour in; another will let you print off maps, and so on.

The printer is also AirPrint-ready, meaning it will print documents and files directly from an iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad, without any setting up required.

Of course, you can still print something the “oldfashioned way” – it is easy to connect to a computer, or even across a network, while the device also accepts USB keys and SD cards at the front.

The device is quick and quiet and, as the name suggests, it does a good job of photos, too. It is a bit pricey, though, and may not appeal to everyone. The HP Photosmart Premium is available online for €200 at www. store.apple.com/ie.

Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

MANAGED by the guru behind the rise of Suede, and with a safe pair of hands on the mixing desk in the form of Muse and Foo Fighters producer, Rich Costey, the self-recorded and self-produced, self-titled debut album from Nashville’s Mona finally hits the streets this week.

Having been tipped as ones to watch since last autumn, the Tennessee tyros first platter arrives with 11 tracks that drip with attitude.

The immense weight that comes from the NME, MTV and BBC

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

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240

voting you as ones to watch in 2011 hangs in the background, but you sense that there is something in the mix that might just see Mona rise above the hype.

The album does not hang about in making its point – clocking in at a brisk 35 minutes – that this is a band packed with an infectious energy and the tunes to drive it home.

Lead tracks, like Listen To Your Love, and Trouble On The Way, show their straightforward rock leanings, but Lines In The Sand demonstrate that Mona already know their way around an anthem.

Mona are releasing their debut album

As with all good debuts, the question is, where do they go from here?

They have a formula that does not need tinkering with; their power pop/alt rock shapes will have an immediate audience, and their support slot at Slane next weekend will give them a shot at a wider base than their recent gig at Whelan’s allowed.

Comparisons will endure with Kings of Leon – the Followills also being from Mona’s

home state of Tennessee.

There is a certain similarity, but they have more in common with Rocket From The Crypt – propulsive rock delivered with a snarl, and hearts-on-sleeves, and looking like they are the coolest gang in town.

Given the space and time to develop their obvious strengths, there’s every chance that they will achieve their intention of being the purveyors of romantic rock‘n’roll for city folk for years to come.

GAZETTE

26 LUCAN GAZETTE 26 May 2011

LUCANclassifieds

DENTAL

To advertise, call us now on 01 60 10 240 Email us at sales@gazettegroup.com

RECYCLING

Lighting, Extra TV points Energy saving lighting upgrades Domestic CCTV. Call Steven on 0874170481

WINDOWS & DOORS

HANDYMAN HOME MAINTENANCE Fitted bathrooms, wall and floor tiling, laminate flooring, decking, wardrobe and kitchen units assembled and fitted. Call James for free estimate. 0861022818

PLUMBING

HANDYMAN Roof and Gutter Repairs gutters Cleaned, Attic Insulation. Curtain Poles, Flat Pack Furniture Assembled Carpentry, Tiling, Painting and Decorating. Free Estimates. Phone John : 0879982782

HOLIDAYS HOLIDAY AT HOME LOCATION: NEWPORT CO.MAYO Modern 3 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom Bungalow to Let Superb Location 2 mins walk Newport Town 200mts Mayo Greenway Cycle Track 8 Miles Magnificent Mulranny Blue Flag Beach & Golf Gateway to Beautiful Achill Island & Atlantic Coast. Affordable Rates.

Call Deirdre 086 2525888

RECRUITMENT

KITCHENS

CARPENTRY WOODHAVEN Lucan Based. Floors, Doors, Stair, Wardrobes & Decking Sidegates, Attic Stairs and Ladders, Attic Flooring Skirtings & Dado Rails.

Very Tidy Work. email maguire.robin@gmail.com Mobile 086 8466161 Ph:01-6105349

COMPUTERS COMPUTER REPAIR CENTRAL Fast Computer Repairs. Laptop Screen Repairs. Hardware Upgrades, Data Recovery.

Get any PC problem fixed fast!! Phone: 01 4407573/ 086 2657160 www. computerrepaircentral.com

COMPUTER SALES, REPAIRS & NETWORKING Network Installation & Maintenance. Specialise in Computer/Network Security Virus/Spyware Removal.

PC Tuneup. Broadband Installation. Call Kieran 087 6698385 COMPUTER REPAIRS AND SALES Virus removal, broadband + wireless setup, PC running slow, annoying pop-ups. Call Damien 0861714713 for a quote NO CALLOUT CHARGE

CLASSES/LEARNING SEWING CLASSES/ CURTAIN MAKING Curtain and Roman Blind making service at

competitive prices. We reline and re-pleat all curtains, full selection of poles and rails available.

Beginners and Improvers 6 week Sewing Classes on Dress Making and Home Furnishings resuming in September. Half Day workshops also resuming in September. Contact us at www.sewgreat.ie or www.pressxpress.ie, call 01 8227650 or email info@ sewgreat.ie GRINDS AVAILABLE Irish & Chemistry Experienced Teacher 087 9425497

DVD SERVICES DVD TRANSFERS Cinefilms,Photos and Slides

transferred to DVD with Music and Titles added.

Camcorder and Videotapes edited and transferred to DVD. Phone 01-2807838 Mobile 087-9132265

ENERGY RATING BER CERTS If you are selling or renting a property or have Grant Approval And require a BER cert. Please call Tony on 0866698706 anytime Or email energyratingstogo@ gmail.com

ELECTRICIANS ELECTRICIAN Available for Domestic Work Including New Fuseboards, Showers, Sockets and Light Switches, Downlighters etc..

Security and Garden

CUSTOM DESIGNED KITCHENS & WARDROBES at sale Prices. Replacement Doors,Counter Tops, Drawers etc if required.

25 Years Experience. For A Free Quotation Phone 087 2514657 www.styneskitchens.com

PET SERVICES DOG TRAINING AND KENNELING Residential training in Obedience and behaviour problems for all breeds, ie pulling on lead, housetraining, aggression, recall, chewing, jumping up etc also personal protection training. Over 20 years experience, having trained in the UK, USA and Germany. Qualified master dog trainer, veterinarian + dog shelter recommended.

Highly trained security dogs for sale. References available, watch our dogs in action and read our many

PLANNING NOTICE

PLANNING NOTICE

SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Cornelius Scott is applying for planning permission for single-storey extension to rear of existing dwelling, comprising extension to existing kitchen, new bedroom & bathroom & construction of 2 no. access ramps, to front & side of existing dwelling, at 89 Floraville Avenue, Clondalkin, Dublin 22.

This application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of South Dublin County Council during its public opening hours of 9am - 4pm, MonFri, and a submission or observation may be made to South Dublin County Council in writing and on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt

by South Dublin County Council of the application

Vera Cadden is applying for full planning permission for a single storey rear extension to existing pharmacy with all associated site works at Unit 1, Tower Shopping Centre, Tower Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. This application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of South Dublin County Council during its public opening hours of 9am - 4pm, MonFri, and a submission or observation may be made to South Dublin County Council in writing and on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt

by South Dublin County Council of the application.

12708

references at www.TopdogTraining.com or phone 087 0514467.

PET MINDERS Safe, Cosy, Pet Boarding.

5 minutes from Castleknock, Blanchardstown, Lucan.

Call now for early booking.

Call 086 8126387/01 8223690. Reasonable rates.

PLUMBING JT PLUMBING BEST PRICES IN DUBLIN!!

All areas covered. 15 years experience. Free estimates.

Water Tanks, Drippings Taps, Radiators, Burst pipes, Cylinders, Pumps, Outside Taps, Showers, Immersions, Bathroom Suites. For your free estimate call now on 085 7555412 mjrules44@ gmail.com

PAINTERS POLISH PROFESSIONAL PAINTING AND DECORATING Best quality.

Free Quotations. No job too small. Very reasonable prices. References available on WWW.MARKCOMPANY. IE find us on FACEBOOK Please phone Mark on 0879442445 TOP CLASS PROFESSIONAL PAINTING 20 Years Experience. All Aspects Of Interior And Exterior Painting. Damaged Ceilings Repaired. Fully Insured.

CONTACT COLM PH: 01-4570829 or 087-9700259

ROOFING HOUSE/ROOF REPAIRS. New hardwood floors,doors,general woodwork. Quality assured. Roof repairs tiles,slates,gutters news roofs. C2 reg. Prompt service. Phone 087 2251577

RECRUITMENT AVON Become an Avon Representative. FREE brochures. FREE delivery.

Earn up to 21% commission on what you sell. No need to go door to door - sell to family and friends. Be your own boss and work your own hours. For more information Call 0857575206.

12682

PLANNING NOTICE SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL I/We Vincent & Philomena Harlow intend to apply for permission for development at 162 Esker Lawns, Lucan, Co Dublin. The development will consist of single storey porch. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of South Dublin County Council, County Hall,Town Centre,Tallaght, Dublin 24 during its public opening hours of Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 4.00pm. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to South Dublin County Council on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the applicaton by South Dublin County Council.

12709

WORK FROM HOME. Earn Extra Income. Full Training Provided. Call Jeannette On 087 6461463

TILING KC TILING & DECORATING Professional Tiler of 20 years experience. Reliable and Trustworthy Specialising in all aspects of tiling, incluing, Ceramics, Porcelains, Marble, Wall tiles and Floor tiles. Finished to the Highest standard. Also available for Painting and Decorating, Interior and Exterior.

Wallpaper Hanging.

All areas covered, Jobs large or small. Call Kevin on 0858390313 for a no obligation quote. References available.

LOCAL MATTERS Talk to your potential customers In your local area with your local Gazette.

Exceptional value, this advert for only €10 + vat per week. Call 01 601 0240 for more info.

26 May 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

MAY WE SUGGEST? This month’s Sports Awards nominees are announced: Page 29

ATHLETICS: LOCAL COMPETITORS TAKE TITLES AT THE LEINSTER SCHOOLS’ EVENT

Buttner claims track and field double at Morton sport@gazettegroup.com

COLAISTE Iosagain’s Siofra Cleirigh-Buttner produced yet another starring performance at last Saturday’s AVIVA Leinster Schools’ Track and Field Championships in Morton Stadium when she bagged both the 800m and 1,500m titles.

The intermediate runner has been one of the stand-out performers at underage level over the past few years and the

Irish international added this double to a series of cross-country titles won in the winter season.

The longer distance was slightly closer than the first, coming home with 11 seconds to spare on Pres Kilkenny’s Megan Morrissey in a time of 5.02.48 with Mount Sackville’s Aoibhin Dowdall taking bronze.

In the 800m, she kept the challenge of Dublin underage ladies’ footballer Sarah Hawkshaw

– a Mount Sackville representative on the day – with a time of 2.08.27.

It means the CleirighButtner will compete for All-Ireland glory in early June in Tullamore.

Elsewhere, the second day of competition was an impressive one for the Rathdown school in Glenageary who claimed three gold medals, excelling in the pole-vault.

Leinster school’s hockey representative, Orla Macken, won the senior

Siofra Clerigh-Buttner, who claimed both the 800 and 1,500m titles in the schools’ track event

title while Eve Blake led a one-two at intermediate level.

Ailbhe Kelleher – in the intermediate triple jump – made it a hat-trick with a best final distance of 10.19 metres.

Her clearance of 2.30m saw her home by one level from schoolmate Rachel Swan who recorded a jump of 2.20m. Malahide CS’ schoolgirl Lizzie McDowell was third.

Blackrock College’s

Oliver Jager continued his glittering school’s sporting year as he added a couple of medals to the JCT title he helped annex for his school in March over St Michael’s.

The back row showed

his strength once more in the throwing disciplines.

His shot distance of 14.09 metres was well clear of Rathangan’s James Mulligan, while Jager added bronze with a 35.32m length in the discus.

28 LUCAN GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteSport Sport Basketball

Dublin Lions Under-16 boys’ team, who were the league winners this season

Eoin Murphy, skills contest winner, and Paul Molloy

Dublin Lions

Grrr-eat day for the Lions HE Dublin Lions’ basketball club’s awards day took place last weekend, honouring the clubs’ many teams and individual players across all age ranges.

The club organised a day of fun and games as well as skills competitions and shooting competitions, and the children at the club took part, with the awards presentations taking place in the Louis Fitzgerald Hotel in the evening.

The three-point shootout was won by Shane Walsh from our U-16 boys team. The club also invited the Lucan Hedgehogs Special Olympic Team over for a game and played a mixed match with some of the club’s Seniors which was a great experience for all involved.

U-12 girls winners Nicole McEvoy and Elizabeth Esan, along with Katie Byrne, coach Hugh Byrne and Denise Broderick Hannah Moore Molloy showing off a trophy

T

The finalists in the skills competition

Nathan Adams, Prosper Nwafor and Randy Tamba

26 May 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 29

in association with

ASDFASDF: SASDF ASDFASD FDSAF SDA

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - MAY NOMINEES

FastSport

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

+ STARof the

Locals lift Leinster to Heineken Cup glory

MONTH

LOCAL stars, captain Leo Cullen, Luke Fitzgerald, Brian O’Driscoll, Shane Jennings Xxx yyll xxyyl zxyxzz zz x xxylyx. Xxx yyll xxyyl zxyxzz Devon Toner were among the Leinster zzand x xxylyx.

Picture: Xxxxx Zzzzzz

RYAN O’DWYER

SIOFRA BUTTNER

NUALA MURPHY

KILMACUD Crokes’ star Ryan O’Dwyer produced a truly outstanding performance to help Dublin annex their first National Hurling League division one title since the 1930s. He was named manof-the-match in the Dubs’ comprehensive 0-22 to 1-7 success over Kilkenny.

THE COLAISTE Iosagain student continues to set the pace in Leinster schools’ middle-distance running, adding the 800m and 1,500m titles at the recent Track and Field championships to her collection. She goes in search of national glory in early June.

RECENTLY returned from a year out injured, Trojan swimmer Murphy shone at the National Long-Course swimming championships at the NAC. She romped to the 1,500m freestyle gold as well as medalling in the 400m event in the face of top class opposition.

+ TEAMof the MONTH

SWORDS CELTIC

BLANCH FC

LUCAN CAMOGIE

SWORDS Celtic enjoyed a memorable month, claiming nine league and cup titles across the various NDSL and DDSL competitions in a bumper three-week period.

The titles ranged from U-8 up to U-17 level, with several Premier gongs.

FC BLANCH secured their second league title in a row, adding to a famous year for the club in their first year in the AUL, the newcomers celebrating their 10th anniversary in style, reaching the last 32 of the FAI Junior Cup.

LUCAN’S dominance in Community Games camogie continued to an unprecedented fifth year as the village produced yet another emphatic display. In their semi-final and finals, they notched and astonishing 11-7 to no-score.

WELCOME to the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, as we mark our local sportsmen and women’s May spor ting achievements across the capital and, indeed, across the nation.

With spring’s awakenings making way for summer sun, we’re delighted to once again

be able to celebrate the finest achievements in Dublin sport, with some huge efforts at local levels coming to our attention in a variety of wellknown, and some less prominent sports.

Ever y form of sporting achievement, at any level and in any sport, is valuable and

gives an impression of the diversity of sporting commitment there is around our fair city at all times of the year.

Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars.

Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes in the month of May, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/gazettesport.

You can also check out the latest stories from GazetteSport at our new website, www.gazettegroup.com

stars who claimed the Heineken Cup in Cardiff last weekend, coming from behind with a mammoth second-half performance to outstrip Northampton.

The side were given a hero’s welcome on their return to Dublin on Sunday at the RDS and were presented to the faithful supporters unable to make the trip to Cardiff.

asdf asdf sa dfdsasd fdas fdasf Special coursedasdfd for budding Triathletes IF YOU’RE female, over 18, and would love to do your first triathlon, the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Sports Partnership and Triathlon Ireland are hosting a beginners’ workshop to provide you with all you need to know to take part in your first event, on the weekend of June 11 at Meadowbrook Leisure Centre in Ballinteer.

Triathlons have grown from 30 events in 2007, involving 600 members, to 131 events and over 5,500 members in less than five years according to Triathlon Ireland.

Both newbies and members contributed to a target of 20,000 participants in 2010.

Events take place across the country from early spring to late summer and, last year, Athlone hosted

the first Irish ITU championship which drew an international crowd. There are high hopes for our own fine athletes to be among the top competitors in London 2012.

Patricia Murphy, a local sports and health and fitness consultant to the houses of the Oireachtas, is calling on people interested in taking part in a triathlon to come along to this special event, at which she will give guidance on equipment, training and nutrition advice, biking, running and swimming techniques, and race preparation.

You’re then ready to take part in your first local race and put your new skills into action - the Focus Ireland Triathlon - on July 31 in Dun Laoghaire Harbour.

To register for this one day workshop or for more information, contact DLRSP at 01 271 9502 or sportspartnership@ dlrcoco.ie

300 wds

30 LUCAN GAZETTE 26 May 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

AUL DIVISION 1: PROMOTION PUSH STILL POSSIBLE FOR LOCALS

Harriers hail another successful Byrne series TOMMY Evans, from Gowran, proved strongest in a quality field that made light of the strong winds as the top five athletes all broke 16 minutes at the Lucan Harriers annual Tom Byrne road race.

Evans came out on top in a superb time of 15 minutes 05 seconds, with Mark Ryan of Rathfarnham WSAF (15.20), Eoin Flynn also of Rathfarnham WSAF (15.32), Paul Fleming of Rathfarnham WSAF (15.48) and Kevin O’Connor of DSD (15.51 and first in his category) all in close attention.

The ladies race was also impressive, with Aoife Talty of Raheny Shamrocks AC the convincing winner, in a brilliant 17 minutes 16 seconds.

Orinta Murnikova was the second lady across the line in 19.11, with Vanessa Sallier of Rathfarnham WSAF (19.44 and first in category), Mary Watters of Navan (19.53 and also first in category) and Michelle Cox of Newbridge AC (20.17) completing the top five in the ladies’ race.

Rathfarnham WSAF, unsurprisingly with three athletes in the top five, took the team prize in the men’s race, with Donore Harriers coming out on top in the ladies’ team event.

Oatfield were unable to take the vital three points against Mountview, but will be pleased to have bounced back from their cup defeat

Oatfield keep hope alive AUL DIVISION 1 Oatfield FC Mountview United NATHAN KELLY

1 1

sport@gazettegroup.com

OATFIELD FC bounced back from their cup-final heartbreak on Friday night to temporarily halt Mountview United from claiming the AUL Div 1 Saturday title.

The Oats were beaten on penalties in the AUL last Friday by East Wall/ Bessboro in the Elastoplast Sport Cup after both sides drew a blank through 120 minutes.

The Clondalkin side were back in action last Monday evening when they hosted league lead-

ers, Mountview United, who were seeking a win to claim the title.

Mountview would no doubt have had an eye or ear to a phone on Baldoyle’s game against Butterkrust FC, with Baldoyle the other team going for the league.

The league was in Mountview’s hands, with themselves on 49 points going into the game, and Baldoyle on 47. The scenario was, if Mountview were defeated and Baldoyle won, the league would go to Baldoyle.

The game in Collinstown Park began in a fairly balanced manner, with little separating both sides in the opening half hour.

Trap s the Gazette: Ireland boss launches FAI press awards REPUBLIC of Ireland manager Gio-

vanni Trapattoni showed where his allegiance lies at the launch of Three FAI Communications awards at the Hilton Airport Hotel last week.

The awards have been introduced to acknowledge the excellent work at local, regional and national level by clubs, leagues, affiliates, jounalists, photographers and media organisations in their reporting of soccer.

For more information about the awards, contact awards@fai.ie

It took that long for the game’s first real chance to present itself, and it fell to Mountview’s number 7, Daniel Ronan, but his volley flew over the bar from the corner of the box.

The away side wasted a much better chance minutes later when striker Richie Coates latched on to a ball over the top but his attempted lob over Oats’ keeper Ross Costigan was put tamely wide.

The momentum began swinging Mountview’s way and they were agonisingly close to taking the lead with ten minutes left in the half when Costigan produced an unbelievable save to keep out a fierce volley from the edge of

the area.

But Mountview scored from the resulting corner, after some terrible defending from Oatfield gifted the away side a tapin. The rest of the first half was scrappy as the galeforce winds were restricting both sides from playing good football.

The second half began with the home side being forced to replace Michael Higgins with Jimmy Noir due to injury.

Oatfield almost equalised on 55 minutes when Keith Dowling’s header just would not fall for Dave Eastman, who would have had an open goal at his mercy.

It was 1-1 five minutes

later though, and Dowling was involved again after some good work. Tomney on the right presented the striker with a chance, his fierce shot was saved but strike partner Gareth Brogan was on hand to tap in the rebound.

Mo u n t v i e w p r o b ably felt they should have clinched the game with the chances they had in the last ten minutes, but Costigan was in great form between the Oatfield posts, and made two crucial saves at the close.

Oatfield would have taken this result much better earlier in the season but, with time running out for promotion, they would have loved a win.

26 May 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 31

in association with

SARSFIELDS: LUCAN REGISTER PAIR OF TITLES

CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS A BIG thanks from the race night com-

Set dancing is every Wednesday in

one who contributed to a successful

the function room at 8.30pm. All wel-

race night.

come.

There are 20 x €20 lucky dips in next

2011 summer camps have been fixed

weekend’s lotto, in addition to top

for July 4 to 8 and July 11 to 15; August 8

prize of €18,000.

to 12 and August 15 to 19.

Congratulations to our U-16 football-

Any Lucan Sarsfields’ members

ers who won the shield final at week-

looking to coach at this year’s summer

end.

camp must contact Johnny McCaffrey

Well done also to inter camogie team

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 9, 11,

Senior B team this week as they can

16 and 23. There was no winner. Next

also wrap up their league.

week’s jackpot is €18,000.

the Folkers. All welcome.

INTERMEDIATE CAMOGIE Lucan Sarsfields Na Fianna

6-11 1-1

sport@gazettegroup.com

LUCAN Sarsfields’ success in the small ball code continued last week when their intermediate camogie side claimed the league title with a comprehensive win over Na Fianna.

B o t h t e a m s we r e undefeated up to this point, but the Lucan girls proved too strong for their northside opposition.

From the throw-in Lucan featured outstanding performances in every position, led by Ellen Downes and Roisin O’Grady in midfield, with great assistance from the half-forward line of Niamh Berry, Amy Martin, and the lightning Tara Keenan.

They supplied great ball to the full-forward line who cleaned up around the goal, to lead at half time by 2-6 to 1-1.

Lucan came back to

the field even stronger in the second half, not giving an inch to the opposition, with a star performance from Sarah Courtney, who scored 4-4 from play.

There was aslo some great work from Marian Flynn, Ailise Dowling, and a super goal from Lorna Sexton.

While the backs were never in trouble, there were some great performances from the O’Toole sisters and captain Mary Roche, ably assisted by Emer Maloney, Rachel Kenny, and the very hard working Eaodoin Casey.

After gaining promotion last year from junior level, the nice combination of experienced and some emerging young talent now go on to play at senior level.

Elsewhere, Sarsfields’ Under-16B were victorious in their Shield final against St Monica’s.

Monica’s opened the scoring after five minutes but, after that, it was attack after attack

from Lucan, who used the gale-force winds to their advantage. Adam Kelly scored a goal after David Parsons’ shot was saved by the goalkeeper. Two minutes later, David got his second goal from the penalty spot after Adam Kelly was fouled in the box.

A disagreement between Neil O’Driscoll and his marker and the Monica’s goalkeeper led to all three being redcarded. Lucan made this advantage count, with Eoin O’Congaille scoring four points, plus one from Cormac H ay e s a n d a n o t h e r from Sean Maguire.

As the half-time

whistle blew, Monica’s pulled a goal back. At half time Lucan led 2-6 to 2-0.

With Monica’s now enjoying the wind advantage, Lucan took the game to them and scored the first points in the second half.

A fantastic solo run from O’Congaille led to a goal, before he scored a fine point.

Goals from David Parsons, Sean Maguire and Aidan O’Donohue, plus points from Adam Kelly, Adam Nyland and Eoin O’Congaille led Lucan to a memorable victory and take the shield title back to 12th Lock.

Josephine Donohue’s team will be in charge for next weekend. Do not forget

County Colours barbecue is on Fri-

you can always enter our lotto online

day, June 10, with special guests. Tick-

by clicking on www.lucansarsfields.ie.

ets available from the bar, priced €20.

Thanks to Newcastle Golf Centre who

125 Celebration ties are now avail-

Lucan take double in league and shield

via club mentor.

who won the league, and good luck to

Music in bar this Saturday with Meet

Lucan Sarsfields’ intermediate camogie side took the step up to senior level with a convincing win over Na Fianna

able for sale at €15 in bar.

mittee to all our sponsors and every-

are this week’s sponsor.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN THERE WAS an away league win

macud Crokes and away next Sunday

for our senior footballers against

to Fingallians at 10am.

Naomh Mearnog, while juniors had a

Members please note: Friday, June 3

home league win over Ballyboden St

is our fundraiser night to the Harold’s

Enda’s.

Cross dogs. Cost for the trip is only

Under-8s and 10s footballers played

€15 and this includes the bus, which

Lucan Sarsfields and Westmanstown

leaves the Palmerstown House at

Gaels, while U-12s lost to Ballyboden St

6.45pm and returns at 10.30pm, your

Enda’s, and the combined U-15s hurl-

entry and race card, and if you get

ers had a win over St Peregrine’s.

hungry you can pick up some chicken

There were four new debutants, Ashling, Alex, Nicole and Chloe, with our U-11s camogie team.

and chips. Children under 14 are free.

Saturday, June 4 is a Take Me Out night in the Palmerstown House, while

A first-half goal by Sadhbh Duffy

Monday, June 6 is a family fun day and

set St Pat’s on their way, and she

barbecue at the clubhouse, with some

then sent over our first point of the

Dublin players paying us a visit during

season. The win was secured with two

the day.

second-half goals.

Tickets for the Dubs’ hurling cham-

Senior hurlers are at home this

pionship match against Offaly may be

Saturday at 6.30pm to Cuala, while

collected at the clubhouse on Thurs-

juniors at home this Thursday to Kil-

day between 7.45 and 8.30pm.

WESTMANSTOWN GAELS/GARDA ALL QUIET on training and playing fields last week due to State visits.

Many congratulations to the U-14 and U-16 girls. Both teams won their

Training resumes for our mens’

respective leagues over the weekend.

teams this Thursday evening at West-

U-8s and U-12s both played Round

manstown at 7.30pm.

Towers and won at home. U-9s trav-

Next fixture for intermediates is at

elled to Round Towers for their blitz

home to Thomas Davis on Wednesday,

weekend, and put in some great per-

June 1.

formances.

Ladies are out next Sunday, May 29,

The U-10s lost to St Patrick’s at home,

in the championship away to Raheny

while the U-11s travelled to Deerpark

at 6pm.

to face Kilmacud. Well done to all

Further payment of €300 is now due

coaches, players and parents.

for all travelling to New York in Sep-

Thanks to Eddie Martin and Mick

tember. Please contact Eugene O Sul-

Ahern for organising the Open Day

livan or Alan Lynch.

event at Scoil Choilm during the week,

On Wednesday, June 1, a meeting of

too.

the travelling party will take place in

Please support our annual fund-

Westmanstown at 9pm to measure up

raising table quiz evening on Thurs-

for travelling and playing gear, etc. A

day, May 26 from 8pm. Contact David

full turnout is expected.

Hanley at davidmehanley@gmail.com

ALL OF YOUR LUCAN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

MAY 26, 2011

LIONS’ ROAR: Dublin Lions basketball club celebrates exceptional season: P28

SUPER STARS: May award nominees revealed inside P29

STEPHEN FINDLATER lucansport@gazettegroup.com

LUCAN United’s brand new UCFL side will push for a move up a couple of divisions after an impressive debut season since forming the team a year ago in Kenny’s pub.

Shield winners this term, they also gained promotion from Division 3B with a third-place finish before ending the season with a runners-up medal in the Sidney bellow Cup. Lucan fell 2-1 to Tallaght-side Allenton United at the VEC in Terenure last Saturday evening, but the cup run, defeating sides one and two divisions higher up the pecking order, suggests they could hold their own further up the standings.

Paul Fagan, a former Hillcrest player, was among the founders of the team 12 months ago and is hopeful they will get the chance.

“We got promotion alright but the standard of football in the league that we’re in isn’t the best out there.

We’ve a couple of new players coming through for next year so Lucan are going to try and push us to go a bit higher in the UCFL.” It is quite a progression from originally tentative thoughts down the local. “A lot of lads are very happy about our first season. A group of lads in Kenny’s had a chat early last season, we said we’d put together a team, put the texts out to people we knew hadn’t played in a while and set up a meeting the next week.

“About 30 people showed up so we organised a training session and then had about 40 people show up.

We had to narrow it down to 20 and then started from there.

“I approached Lucan United myself about getting us put in a league. I’d never been involved with them before, I was just interested in starting playing again as I hadn’t played for a few years. But Lucan have been very good for us throughout the season, they were magnificent, so we’ll definitely stay involved

with them.”

They were just pipped from claiming a double in a lively tie

by Allenton amid a windstorm in South Dublin.

Lucan went 1-0 in after five minutes when Emmet Walker got the finishing touch to Johnny Murtagh’s cross, initially set free by Gary Tuke.

It was a dream start but it did not last. Allenton were on terms in the 12th minute against the run of play, Barry Dwyer settling to score after some ping-pong in the Lucan area.

Chances came and went for the likes of Colin Ryan and Willie McGuire but neither could regain the lead but they were again sprung when Thomas Hogan breached the offside trap to score the deciding goal on the 70-minute mark.

Substitute Aaron Boyne went closest to nicking an equaliser but it was not to be but Lucan’s newest adult team can reflect on a tidy debut season.

Lucan United introduced an UCFL team to great effect

GazetteSPORT

Lucan eye league jump