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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Gaelscoil’s pupils walk to school in a Greener way P6

Canoeing: Salmon Leap star takes world cup silver medal Page 32

Sports Awards: May’s Dublin Awards winners are announced Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

June 2, 2011

ONE, TWO, 687: Counting up the

vast bio-diversity found in locale P5

Gardai in €120k drugs bust in village Q PAUL HOSFORD

GARDAI in Lucan this week seized cocaine with an estimated street value of more than €120,000 from a house in the area.

A dr ugs package was believed to have been sent to the house via the post, and was tracked to the address in a quiet estate on the outskirts of the village.

Gardai are believed to have made a number of arrests,

though details are not yet known.

The revelation came at a policing forum held this week, where residents’ associations and neighbourhood watch schemes met with Gardai.

Local Fine Gael councillor William Lavelle said that the operation showed the success that can be had in the war on drugs.

“It was a well-run operation, and I congratulate all of the Gardai involved,” he said.

Monkeying around: Having fun with a colourful day at school MRS Inez Cooper carefully holds an

unofficial pupil of St Andrews’s NS for a group shot when the principal helped the children to celebrate a colourful day at school recently. Staff and children dressed up, with most

using the colour purple, as part of a fun, imaginative fundraising day held in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland. It was a great day for everyone, and one to remember for the retiring principal.

Full Gallery on Pages 8-9

2 LUCAN GAZETTE 2 June 2011

RECYCLING Launch of initiative follows the creation of 15 new jobs MEETING:

Greyhound has suite of new services Q PAUL HOSFORD

lucan@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL waste recycling company, Greyhound, has announced the introduction of a suite of new services aimed at improving the waste collection service that it offers to over 70,000 household customers across South County Dublin.

The launch of the new services follows the creation of 15 jobs at a new customer service centre

situated at the company’s Clondalkin headquarters, and an investment of over €250,000 in new information technology.

Greyhound, who recently purchased the waste service collections in South Dublin, is now offering customers the opportunity to receive text alerts notifying them of bin collection schedules, and every customer will be entitled to a free bin sanitation service over the next few weeks.

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The company is also launching its new website, where customers can pay, or top up, their account credit online and view their account balance, yearly statements and a full calendar of black, brown and green bin collection dates.

The new www.greyhound.ie website will also enable customers to view their bin lift history and to track the volume of waste that they are recycling, having chosen

Greyhound as their service provider.

“We are committed to bringing back the traditional bin service and to embracing new technology to provide our customers with exemplary customer service. We are intent on providing the best service in the market,” said Michael Buckley, joint CEO of the company.

Other, new, addedvalue service initiatives include the introduction

of a local SkipBag collection service, which will make it cheaper and easier for householders to dispose of bulky items, and the launch of informative and interactive Twitter and Facebook pages.

All of Greyhound’s bin collection teams have also undergone customer-service training.

“We understand that the simple things, like notifying customers of rescheduled collection

dates during inclement weather, bank holiday arrangements and how to get a replacement bin, are important to our customers,” said Buckley.

Greyhound is celebrating the launch of the new www.greyhound.ie website by offering its customers an opportunity to win some fantastic prizes, including a first prize of one night’s B&B and dinner for two at an exclusive Dublin hotel. Log on for further details.

FUNDING: CLOSE LOOPHOLES – DEPUTY DOWDS

‘Massive funds lost to lax car tax laws’ Q PAUL HOSFORD lucan@gazettegroup.com

THE Government could fund South Dublin three times over if it closed loopholes in car tax law.

That’s according to Labour TD for Dublin Mid West, Deputy Robert Dowds, who says that €94 million was lost to the Exchequer during a 15-month period from May, 2009, to July, 2010.

A parliamentary question from the TD about the facility to declare non-use of vehicles for taxation purposes uncovered the information, and also revealed that an offthe-road declaration in relation to any month can only be accepted after that month has ended Deputy Dowds said: “Two major problems arise from this information. Firstly, the loss of money is substantial.

Labour deputy Robert Dowds

“T he money from motor tax goes to the Local Government Fund, which is passed on to county councils.

“For example, the Local Government Fund allocation for South Dublin – which includes Clondalkin, Lucan and Tallaght – was €24.29 million in 2010,” he said.

“In other words, the amount lost would have funded almost three South Dublin County Councils, in terms of the

Local Government Fund.

“Secondly, the fact that a declaration of non-use of a vehicle comes at the end of the month leaves the system wide open to abuse. How widespread this abuse may be is guesswork, but it is reasonable to assume it is substantial.

“To back up this assumption, 27% of vehicles in County Monaghan in 2008 were declared to be off-road for some of the year. In greater Dublin, the

figure was 12%, according to a report I have seen,” said Deputy Dowds.

He said that, while the intention of the system is fair, the application of the system was too lax.

“It is fair to give drivers a rebate of car tax if they are genuinely not using the vehicle for a period.

However, substantial evidence that the vehicle is not being driven ought to be presented.

“I suspect a few vehicles were being declared as off-road because some drivers were under severe financial pressure.

“Anecdotal evidence given to me would suggest that many of those declaring vehicles off-road were not particularly stretched, financially, but were just using a loophole.

“Overall, it would be better if everyone paid their way,” said Deputy Dowds.

TACKLING CONCERNS

Action group formed by locals FOLLOWING a strongly attended cross-community group of concerned Palmerstown residents on Thursday, May 12, a new neighbourhood action group, Friends of Glenaulin Park, has been formed.

The meeting, which was arranged with Ballyfermot Gardai and South Dublin County Council’s Parks authorities, primarily discussed the ongoing disruption and anti-social behaviour occurring in Glenaulin Park.

Sergeant John Edgeworth, of Ballyfermot Garda Station, told the meeting about the arrest of 22 people in the park since March, mainly on the Palmerstown side of the park, and said that there were two plainclothes Gardai on duty in Palmerstown at present, in order to deal with recent break-ins.

Local residents described a variety of problems, including scrambler bikes in the park during the day and night, the stealing and burning of bins, the burning of trees and ESB poles, drinking and drug dealing.

A number of incidents were reported where violent threats have been made to local residents.

Edno Cooley, chairperson of Palmerstown Community Council, who chaired the meeting on the night, said the park could be an excellent community resource.

2 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 3

BOOKS Local garden named as one of Ireland’s best

Grants’ funding approval

National glory for Primrose Hill garden Q STAFF REPORTER lucan@gazettegroup.com

“YOU hear her voice, she is like a companion who goes through the garden with you ... The 100 Best Gardens in Ireland is a wonderful addition to the canon of literature on Irish gardens.”

So says The Irish Garden editor, Gerry Daly, who launched Shirley Lanigan’s new book, The 100 Best Gardens in Ireland, in the Iveagh Gardens, where he named Lucan’s Primose Hill as one of the top 100.

Many featured gardens around the country were represented at the event, and none more so than Dublin’s gardens.

Lucan’s Primrose Hill, which features amongst many other Dublin and Leinster gardens, was highlighted by Gerry and Shirley as being one of the best in the country.

Liberties Press, publisher of The 100 Best Gardens in Ireland, describes it as a full-colour, beautifully bound book, which examines the greatest and most breathtaking gardens across the island

EDUCATION: SCHEME

Shirley Lanigan, author of The 100 Best Gardens in Ireland, left, which includes Lucan’s Primrose Hill gardens

of Ireland.

Newly updated and lavishly illustrated, this summer-published guide to Irish gardens is a musthave for gardeners and tourists, as well as for lovers of beauty planning their summer outings.

The book, priced at €25, takes readers on an informative, interesting and pictorial tour of some

of Ireland’s most spectacular gardens, and, with hundreds of newly commissioned photographs, the book is described as a feast for the eyes.

Written by journalist Lanigan, the book explores the gardens’ histories, design, flora and fauna, and also includes interviews with owners, curators and gardeners.

In addition, it acts as a practical guide, providing information on fees, opening hours, and so on, and has been designed as a handbook to take around the country whilst visiting these remarkable horticultural sights.

Building on Lanigan’s previous book on Irish gardens, which was hailed as “probably the most

comprehensive guide to Irish gardens, North and South, published to date”, The 100 Best Gardens in Ireland is for anyone who can appreciate the very best of Irish gardens, from the truly magnificent and celebrated to the neverbefore-seen secret gardens.

Lanigan has worked as both a journalist and gallery curator.

Her first book, The O’Brien Guide to Irish Gardens (2001), was the most comprehensive guide ever written on the gardens of Ireland.

FINE Gael TD for Dublin Mid-West, Deputy Derek Keating, has received confirmation from the Department of Social Protection that back-toschool grants – which were awarded in 2010 – will be paid in mid-June.

He said: “This grant is a vital support to many families in Dublin MidWest. Those who did not apply last year, or who are entitled to grants this year, should immediately submit their application.

“To qualify for the backto-school grants, applicants must be receiving social welfare payments, or a health service payment, and be in receipt of children’s allowance.

“If you received a grant last year, you will not have to re-apply. Applicants are entitled to €200 per child aged between two and 11 years of age, and €300 for older children,” said Deputy Keating.

4 LUCAN GAZETTE 2 June 2011

PROJECT: STRASBOURG TRIP FOR VIDEO WIN

SCHOOLS A week of car-free travel plans

Impressive thoughts on EU identity THIS week, 24 Transition Year students from Colaiste Chiarain in Leixlip will travel to Strasbourg to participate in the European Parliament’s Euroscola programme, alongside secondary school students from the EU’s 26 other member states.

T he Colaiste Chiarain students, with their Captain Europe video, wowed the panel of judges at the finals of this year’s My Vision for Europe competition at the Irish Film Institute (IFI), held on March 11.

Participating schools put together a fourminute video portraying their vision for Europe.

Colaiste Chiarain, and Methodist College, Belfast, were chosen as the winners of this year’s competition.

T he Colaiste Chiarain students set out to examine the complexities and implications of EU member state stereotypes, and the powers of a fictional Captain Europe who called on the member states to “eurofy”.

Their video can be viewed at w w w. y o u t u b e . c o m / watch?v=5BGHrg3_ Gbs. On the day of the

finals, five Irish secondary schools – the chosen regional finalists for this year’s My Vision for Europe competition – competed to impress a judging panel which included Nicky Phelan, of Brown Bag films; Alicia McGivern, head of education at the IFI, and Francis Jacobs, head of the European Parliament Office in Ireland.

The students presented their short videos, explaining how they had come up with the ideas and put them together.

Audience All five videos were then shown on the IFI’s big screen to a live audience, which included Labour Par ty MEP, Proinsias De Rossa.

During this one-day event in Strasbourg, the winning students have the opportunity to sit in the EP’s Chamber, and to get a sense of the work of an MEP. The participating students will take part in discussions on topical European subjects, and will engage in group activities, interacting with students from other EU member states, and communicating using an EU language other than their own.

Parents, pupils and staff at Gaelscoil Naomh Padraig were happy to take eco-friendly options to reach school as part of a Green initiative

ENVIRONMENT: SCHOOL EMBRACES AN ECO-FRIENDLY INITIATIVE

Best feet forward for a greener way to travel GAELSCOIL Naomh P a d r a i g , l a s t we e k launched GLAS days, during Green Schools’ National Walk to School Week 2011, joining thousands of other students across Ireland taking part, with the ultimate aim of increasing the number of students who make the school journey on foot.

Gaelscoil Naomh Padraig decided to celebrate the week by launching their GLAS (Gluaisfimid Linn Ar Scoil) days on May 17.

GLAS days are the school’s adaptation of the Green Schools travel initiative, WOW, which aims to instil a walking culture within a school by

encouraging the students and teachers to Walk Once a Week.

On the day, 64% of students walked, and an additional 35% cycled, took public transport, car-pooled or parked and strode to school, with students and teachers encouraged to walk to school every Tuesday from now on.

An Taisce’s Green Schools’ Travel programme’s Walk to School Week promotes the environmental, health, social and financial benefits of active travel on the school journey.

The initiative is the only one of its kind in Ireland, which specifi-

cally promotes active and sustainable travel on the journey to school, and has become one of the most important actionawareness weeks in the Irish school calendar.

Green Schools across the country encouraged the whole school community to walk – with many declaring their school a car-free zone during the week.

The week was also an opportunity for schools to learn about all the benefits of other Green travel options on the school journey, such as cycling, park ‘n’ stride, using public transport or car-pooling as alternatives to the private car.

Aine O’Loughlen, Green Schools Travel education officer, said: “Green Schools is committed to promoting sustainable travel options, including walking, on the journey to school as a real alternative to the car.

“Walking to school is a great way to be active during the day, as well as reducing traffic congestion at the school gates.

“Since starting the programme in September, 2010, Gaelscoil Naomh Padraig has already carried out surveys to determine the patterns of travel to and from school, and has held an awareness campaign on sustainable travel, which included

travel workshops, facilitated by An Taisce.

“The school is also running the Green Tree initiative, where children put a leaf on the tree to indicate how they travel to school.

“Green leaves signify sustainable modes of transport, such as walking, cycling, public transport, car-pooling and Park ‘n’ Stride, while brown leaves represent journeys by car,” she said.

The promotion of walking will form part of the school’s sustainable travel action plan, in an effort to get its fourth Green Flag award for environmental initiatives from An Taisce.

2 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 5

COMMUNITY 687 wildlife species recorded in park

High praise for participants in Bio Blitz search Q PAUL HOSFORD

lucan@gazettegroup.com

L O CA L F i n e G a e l councillor Emer Higgins has paid tribute to all the participants in the Bio Blitz competition, which took place over the weekend.

The event was organised by the National Biodiversity Data Centre and saw five locations around Ireland work against the clock to identify as many wildlife species as possible in each location over 24 hours.

From soaring eagles to the smallest of bugs in the undergrowth, teams of scientists and volunteers searched Liffey Valley Park, recording what species they could find.

Tremendous “Well done to all involved in this Bio Blitz. It was a tremendous national campaign, which provoked a huge local response from the community here in Palmerstown,” said Cllr Higgins.

“I was delighted to attend the event in Waterstown Park, and

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

‘Well done to all involved in this Bio Blitz. It was a tremendous national campaign, which provoked a huge local response from the community’

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Cllr Emer Higgins, FG

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found it fascinating, watching the industry experts analyse the results in Stewarts Sport and Leisure Centre.

“There were 687 species recorded in the park during the 24-hour period, which is pretty incredible for an urban park in a capital city,” said Cllr Higgins.

This year, up to 200 scientists will come together at five of Irel a n d ’s s t a t e - ow n e d properties to compete for the title of BioBlitz 2011 Champions.

“The event saw scientists and professionals work alongside chil-

dren and residents from Palmerstown.

“I think the event served the dual purpose of promoting the park to residents and industry experts, as well as showing children, and, indeed, adults, the value of nature and science,” said Cllr Higgins.

“Waterstown Park is a valuable local amenity, and it was great to see it used by so many people this weekend.

Lucky “Lucan and Palmerstown are very lucky to be part of such an interesting and scenic landscape created by the Liffey Valley.

“Well done to the organisers of this event, the Parks Department of the council, who were so supportive of the initiative, the industry experts who gave so much of their time to the local community, and all the volunteers who participated. “ Eve n t h o u g h we didn’t outshine Killarney National Park, we put in a fantastic effort, and a lot of fun was had along the way, too,” she said.

Councillor Emer Higgins studies some local insects collected during the event

ACTIVITIES

Events at churches THE June Bank Holiday weekend will see musical shows and family entertainment in the two local Church of Ireland Churches.

On Friday, June 3, the RTE Vanbrugh Quartet perform in St Andrew’s Church of Ireland, Main Street, Lucan. The concert starts at 8pm, with doors open at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available at the door, or from 01 624 0976, and are priced at €15, with €10 concessions available.

On Saturday, June 4, there will be a free Summer Fair at St Mary’s Church of Ireland, Main Street, Leixlip. Gates open at 10.30am, with lots to see and enjoy.

6 LUCAN GAZETTE 2 June 2011

AWARDS Prestigious selection

SCHOOLS Judges impressed with project

St Joseph’s is chosen for eco showcase ST JOSEPH’S College was among 55 groups to be selected to attend Ireland’s biggest celebration of young people taking environmental action – the ECO-UNESCO Young Environmentalist Awards Showcase and ceremony, 2011.

Young people from across Ireland were honoured at the awards at a ceremony attended

by Mary Robinson, and more than 600 young

people, in the Mansion House.

The 55 groups selected for the finals were chosen from almost 4,000 young people throughout the island of Ireland who registered.

From carbon footprint apps to a recycling awareness song, guerrilla gardening to ECOfashion shows, biodiversity trails and a climate change campaign, this year’s group of young

environmentalists covered a truly diverse range of subjects.

Elaine Nevin, national director of ECOUNESCO, said: “All of the young people attending show tremendous creativity and innovation in their approach to protecting the environment, and promoting environmental awareness among their peers, their schools and youth groups and the community as a whole.”

Triona Dzidona, Michelle Dunne, science and chemistry teacher, Fariha Riaz, and Mariya Tahir from St Joseph’s College, Lucan

Students cook up a great science prize Q PAUL HOSFORD

lucan@gazettegroup.com

THREE LUCAN students were recently awarded the Intel Best

Project Award at Scifest, held in The Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown (ITB).

St Joseph’s students Mariya Tahir, Trina

Dizodony and Fariha Ria undertook a huge amount of work in their project, which was designed to discover the most nutritious way of cooking vegetables.

While the level of work impressed the judges, Mariya said she was shocked when the name of her school was read out by the judges.

“We weren’t expecting to win at all. The judges came to us very early, so we thought that they may have forgotten about us.

“As well as that, we had so much information to give that we thought we may have overloaded on the information first time around.”

The group picked up two other awards in other categories, which, Mariya says, “were enough for me”, before hearing their name called as overall winners.

“We thought there might be another school called St Joseph’s!”

The heart of the project is healthy food and studying the eating habits of Irish people.

“It basically focuses on the health of Irish people. We wanted to look at healthy food because obesity is becoming a big

issue in this country.

“We set out to find the most nutritious way of cooking green vegetables. We used four sensors, which are very sensitive, and measure the contents of the vegetables.”

The girls won over the judges with their hard work and enthusiasm, with the girls adding different aspects to the public display of their project.

“Part of the display was inspired by the TV chef, Heston Blumenthal. We did sensory analysis of food to see how people reacted.

“We had a bowl of vanilla ice cream and, while people were eating it, we got them to rub a pillow. While they were doing that, they said the ice cream was fluffy, but when we swapped the pillow for a Brillo pad, the people said the ice cream had gone coarse.”

The girls were rewarded for their enthusiasm and research, with Mariya saying that the girls are looking at continuing their scientific endeavours in third-level, but, first they will represent ITB in a nationwide science competition.

2 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 7

COURTS: EXECUTIVE CLAIMED OVERTIME HE WAS NOT ENTITLED TO

Civil servant sentenced for €147k fraud

A KILDARE civil servant, who defrauded €147,000 from the Department of Social and Family Affairs by claiming overtime he was not entitled to, has been given a three-year suspended sentence.

Donal McBride (57) had been working as a higher executive officer for 10 years, and had been with the department for 37 years, when the fraud came to light.

He retired with a pension and has been paying 25% of that back to the department to make full restitution.

McBride, of Cluain Dara, Easton Road, Leixlip, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to four charges of deception at Con Colbert House, Con Colbert Road, on dates between August 26, 2001 and April 6, 2007.

Mr Fergal Foley BL, prosecuting, told Judge Yvonne Murphy that the charges represented a sample of 59 counts over a period of August 2001 to October 2008.

Detective Garda Peter Clifford told Mr Foley that the department had conducted an internal audit and discovered that McBride was the highest recipient of overtime.

Further checks were carried out and it was discovered that McBride had forged overtime claim forms.

He had added his name to a list of employees entitled to overtime after a senior official had signed the form to approve payment to the other staff.

Det Gda Clifford said McBride had “co-operated as much as he possibly could have”.

He said he had since received two lump sums from the department, which he paid back to them. He now owes over €23,000 and is making monthly payments by deductions from his pen-

sion. McBride will have made full restitution by the end of 2014.

Judge Murphy said in most similar cases the “money is not paid back”, but acknowledged that McBride’s crime represented “a serious breach of trust”.

Good progress

“I see no useful purpose in imposing a prison sentence. He is making very good progress and this would be severely disrupted if he went to prison,” Judge Murphy said before she suspended the entire sentence on the condition that McBride keep the peace and be of good behaviour for three

years.

Det Gda Clifford agreed with Mr Raymond Farrell BL, defending, that McBride had told gardai in interview he had been suffering from depression and was an alcoholic.

He accepted that he had always been held in high esteem and had been described by one of his superiors “as a person of impeccable character” while another said he had always found McBride to be “wholly reliable”.

Mr Farrell told the court that his client accepts that what he had done was extremely wrong, as he was a person in authority who had abused a position of trust.

You Can Do It: Tackling those projects with DIY classes being offered at B&Q Liffey Valley CALLING ALL DIY-ERS in the Clondalkin

area! If you are thinking about starting a DIY project, but not sure where to begin, then don’t worry. Help is at hand with the launch of B&Q’s new You Can Do It Centre at Liffey Valley. The new centre, which was launched on May 21, 2011, offers customers a choice of over 20 DIY classes.

Already a huge hit in the UK, the You Can Do It Centre at Liffey Valley aims to make DIY easier for people of all ages -

including the kids.

A specially designed facility has been built in B&Q Liffey Valley, which will host a range of classes. With more than 20 classes to choose from, there is something for everyone. Whether you want to paint the front room, tile the loo, mend a leaky tap or insulate your attic, you can master the skills, as the classes will be presented in easy-to-follow two- to four-hour sessions costing just €15.

8 LUCAN GAZETTE 2 June 2011

SCHOOLS St Andrew’s NS hold a colourful fundraising day,

Berry glad to dress up in purple ... It’s James Pasley, David Wood, Adelina Sorokina

Rachel-Grace Mullarky, Mogbeke Akinyemi and

and Hollie Erskine

Hannah Pasley

Thinking pin- err, purple, for fun ...

OME suitably purple prose would still fail to convey the excitement at St Andrew’s National School recently, where an annual fundraising day with a difference was being held in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland.

Staff and students held a colourful fancy dress day, with this year’s theme being the colour purple, turning the school into a sea of, well, purple! Although some dared to brave the

S Miss Alison Hales and Mrs Miriam Burrows

school gates in rogue pinks, blues and greens, everyone had a great time in their unusual clothes, which certainly created a very memorable, and useful, day at the school.

It was fitting that purple was so predominant on the day, as it is the favourite colour of St Andrew’s principal, Inez Cooper, who is retiring this summer after 45 years’ service to education, having guided the lives of many

The staff and pupils at St Andrew’s NS created a sea of

thousands of pupils, not least in her many years of faithful duty at St Andrew’s. Her staff, and pupils certainly hoped that she would be tickled pin– err, purple by the day’s fun, which was dedicated to her in her honour.

2 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 9

dedicated as a tribute to retiring principal, Mrs Inez Cooper

Mrs Iinez Cooper, principal of St Andrew’s National School , is retiring this summer after many years purple during their recent annual fundraising day held in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland. Pictures: Peter Doyle

The children really enjoyed the chance to dress up for the fun day at school

Ruth Watson, Katie Dillon, Abbie Copeland, Eve Digbey, Pia McGillivray, Leah Merriman, Carla Baron, Rosa Byrne and Sophie Irwin

Ella Hughes, Emily Brauer, Anna Potterton and Kimberly Chaila

of faithful service

10 LUCAN GAZETTE 2 June 2011

SOCIETY Social Innovators are honoured at Citywest

Ryan MacManus

Collinstown Park students Danielle Farrelly, Dylan O’Mara, Aimee Leeson and

Aaron Cahill and Alan

Carly Ward

Thomas

Highlighting young citizens’ work for all T An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, arriving at Citywest, where he was greeted by social innovator and charity worker, Sister Stanislaus Kennedy

AOISEACH Enda Kenny was the guest of honour at the tenth annual Young Social Innovators Showcase and Awards ceremony held at Citywest recently, where a number of local schools were among the 50 schools and Youthreach centres vying for the title of Young Social Innovators 2011.

He joined local Fine Gael deputy, and the Minister for Education, Frances Fitzgerald, for the ceremony, which saw a number of other politicians joining leading education, aid, inclusion and support agencies figures in attendance, all there to highlight the contribution to society and communities, both here and overseas, that our students and young people make.

Colaiste Bhride, Collinstown Park Community College and Moyle Park College were among those taking part, with each responsible for a number of impressive local initiatives.

Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton, enjoyed talking with Sister Stanislaus. Pictures: Peter Doyle

Notre Dame students Sarah Morris and Aoife Geraghty

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteGAMING GAMING

Only two more Kinect sensors left to be won!

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

K inect 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. Controllerfree gaming means fullbody play.

Kinect responds to how you move. So, if you have to kick, then kick.

T

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.

With soccer, field and

track events, and even bowling, Kinect Sports has something for everyone.

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

K inect 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 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 Kinect sensors is the Gazette giving away in total?

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 8.

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 13

GazetteGROWING GROWING

In association with

SEEDLINGS: FUN IN THE GARDEN

The joy of growing up MICHAEL KELLY

DID a lot of transplanting this weekend, which is always a fun activity for a GIYer. There’s nothing like the satisfaction of planting seedlings – bare beds transformed in an instant with neat rows of little plants.

There are always a few days of fretting after transplanting, however – will cold nights set the plants back? Will slugs or rabbits try and munch on them?

Seed sowing is a relatively exact science – if you sow a seed at the right temperature and at the right depth, and you keep the potting compost moist, then it will generally germinate rather reliably.

In addition, up to the point that they are transplanted, the seedlings have luxuriated in the 5-star comfort of my potting shed.

They have been nurtured, spoiled, cossetted.

I’ve carefully watered them each day, switched on heat underneath them at night and covered them with fleece.

The potting shed is a controlled environment – there is no weather in there – no rain or wind.

Nor are there any pests

to trouble them – leather jackets, slugs, snails, birds or rabbits.

Planting a seedling out in the soil therefore is a watershed moment.

It is the moment it leaves a very controlled environment in favour of something far more uncontrolled, unpredictable and messy.

And like a parent sending a child off to school for the first time, you just have to have faith and let it go into the mad, bad world.

Things to do this month To-Do Watering and weeding duties step up a notch – the tunnel/greenhouse in particular will require a good deal of water from now on.

Watch the weather and water outside as required.

Continue to earth-up potato plants to prevent the spuds becoming green.

Mu l c h a n d w a t e r tomato plants and continue to remove side shoots that appear in the leaf axils.

Stake everything that grows tall – raspberries, peas, beans, tomatoes, etc. Net soft fruit against birds – it’s worth the effort.

Sow Sow courgettes, pumpkins, summer and winter squash, fennel, chicory.

Succession sow: beans (French and Runner), kale, pea, spinach, spinach beet, summer broccoli, carrot, swede, leek, lettuce, brussels sprouts, b e e t r o o t , c h i c o r y, endive, turnip, kohlrabi, fennel.

Plant out leeks, brussels sprouts, cabbage, autumn caulif lower, calabrese, sprouting broccoli, celery, celeriac, cucumbers, pumpkin, marrows, runner beans, aubergine.

Harvest We are now really starting to see some payback from our GIYing - the first broad beans and peas as well as new potatoes, new carrots, soft fruit like gooseberries, cherries and strawberries.

Herbs are in full flow.

Also harvest kohlrabi, cabbage, caulif lower (month end), spinach, spring onion, shallots, salad leaves, elderflower, rhubarb, salad leaves, onions, carrots, beetroot, garlic, sea-kale.

Michael Kelly is a freelance journalist, author and founder of GIY Ireland

Recipe of the Month – Broad Beans with Bacon

JUNE is broad bean month – I love opening up the pods and seeing the little beans nestling in the comfy white fleece inside.

The little green gems love to be paired with bacon. This recipe serves 4-6.

Ingredients: • 30g butter • 4 slices unsmoked bacon • 1 medium onion, finely chopped • 500g broad beans, shelled • 125ml stock

MELT the butter in a pan.

Add the bacon and onion and fry until the onion is soft but not coloured.

Stir in the beans.

Add the stock and bring to the boil.

Cover and cook over a moderate heat for 6-8 minutes until the beans

are soft but not mushy.

If there is too much liquid in the pan at the end, boil briskly for 1-2 minutes to evaporate it.

Serve immediately – this will make a lovely side dish or served by itself with some crusty or toasted bread.

It’s now time to harvest and get some payback from all your hard work

14 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Get the Cheryl red carpet look

SHE may not have become an American sweetheart, but Cheryl Cole proved in Cannes that there are few who can rival her on the Red Carpet.

The glamorous singer took the French by storm when she appeared on the carpet with her hair slicked back to show off her stunning features and her gorgeous white dress with belt detail by Stephane Rolland.

Lisa Laudat, L’Oréal Paris’ Celebrity Hair and Make-up artist was responsible for the star’s make-up.

For a glowing complexion to add luminosity to Cheryl’s skin after arriving in Cannes from America, Lisa applied Youth Code Boosting Serum, followed by a light coat of Infallible Brush 24hr foundation in Golden Sand and contoured the cheeks with Glam Bronze Duo in Brunette. Under the eyes, Touche Magique concealer was gently applied.

Meanwhile, her golden eyes were achieved by mixing New L’Or L’Or L’Or Color Infallible eye shadow in Goldmine (available from September) and Color Infallible eye shadow in Endless Chocolate to the lids of the eyes.

Cheryl’s eyes were then framed with both Superliner and Contour Kohl eyeliners in black. To complete the golden eye look, Lisa applied Telescopic mascara in Carbon Black to Cheryl’s eye lashes.

Edited by Dawn Love

Spoiling your Dad on Father’s Day Roger & Gallet

FOUNDED in 1862 Roger & Gallet has a complete range of perfumes, shaving and fragrant care inspired by the masters of traditional barbering and is available from pharmacies nationwide.

L’Homme Shaving Foam is priced €13 and is a rich, thick shaving foam, which respects the skin, thanks to allantoin, an active ingredient with softening and soothing properties and aloe vera, a plant renowned since ancient times for its moisturising action.

It also contains an anti-bacterial agent to protect the skin.

L’Homme Aftershave Balm is priced €15, and is formulated to provide extra-special care. Its gel cream texture contains aloe vera and white tea that gives stressed, tired Roger & Gallet L’Homme shaving skin a new radiance and vitality. Skin is left soft and matte Foam, €13, (left) and L’Homme from morning to night.

Aftershave Balm, €15 La Roche-Posay

The well-known French brand has the perfect solution for every man’s skincare needs, especially those with sensitive skin.

Its XY Homme range combats skin sensitivity and problems, which result from regular shaving, including post-shaving irritation, ingrown hairs and persistent redness and post-shaving dehydration.

Check out its XY Homme Hydrating Barrier Gel (€18), which has customised hydration adapted to male skin physiology and its XY XY Homme Normalising AntiHomme Normalising Anti-redness Balm (€18), which not only soothes redness Balm, €18 (left) and XY razor burn, but hydrates sensitive skin.

Homme Hydrating Barrier Gel,€18

MooGoo is packed full of natural ingredients and includes shampoos, specialist balms, moisturisers and lip balms

Aussie phenomenon hits the shelves

IT’S one of the beauty industr y’s best kept secrets, but now the Aussie phenomenon, MooGoo, is being stocked in Kerins Pharmacies in Blackrock and Dalkey.

The luxury band is

packed full of natural ingredients and includes shampoos, specialist balms, moisturisers and lip balms.

Amongst its most popular products is the brand’s new anti-aging

cream, which promises to help reduce the appearance of lines and sun damage.

According to the company, one of the key ingredients is Resveratrol, the latest break-

through compound found in red grapes.

For more information on the broad range of MooGoo products, and how to achieve healthy skin, visit www.moogoo. ie

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 15

16 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

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The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

GAZETTE COMMENT

By Councillor Michael O’Donovan

A man of war - a man of peace The recent royal visit prompted Labour’s Cllr Michael O’Donovan to put some thoughts on paper about Republicanism, about the Queen, and about his granduncle Pat.

LET me start by congratulating the Gazette on the excellent photos of the Queen’s visit. Her visit to the Garden of Remembrance was remarkable, the warmth of the welcome she experienced was close to universal, and it set me thinking of what Republicanism now means to this country.

Growing up in Cork, the hero of our extended family was my granduncle, Pat O’Donovan.

Back in 1920, Pat was a member of a unit known as the Flying Column, and he was one of the 40 or so riflemen who took on and wiped out two lorry loads of “Auxiliaries” at Kilmichael in West Cork.

For several months previously these thugs in British uniform had been terrorising the villages and the countryside of Cork, particularly targeting and burning the homes of Republican supporters.

The fire-fight of Kilmichael lasted no more than half an hour, but at the end of it, all 18 of the British detachment lay dead, with the loss of three on the Republican side.

After the ambush there was a price put on Pat O’Donovan’s head and he spent months on the run but he still fought with the Flying Column in a number of other bloody skirmishes.

That year of war had a huge personal effect on Pat. When the truce came, he was unable to settle back

into farming life and his restlessness drove him, of all places, to Britain.

There he took an industrial job, married an Irish emigrant lady, and raised his family in north Wales.

Like all his comrades in the West Cork IRA, Pat despised the members of the Essex regiment and the Black and Tans, because of the brutal way they treated Republican prisoners, but he came to regard the British as a tolerant and welcoming people, and lived happily in the UK until his death in 1974.

Pat’s personal journey from man of war to man of peace mirrors, I think, the change in thinking that allowed the Queen’s visit to go ahead and be a success.

We can never forget that we were the victims of a British Empire that ruled other nations by force and intimidation, but recent important initiatives have changed the landscape.

These include the power-sharing executive which gives Nationalists a guaranteed role in government, the establishment of the PSNI, which has demonstrated that cross-community policing can work, and the fulsome apology given by David Cameron for the Bloody Sunday killings in Derry.

The silent bow of respect by the Queen at the Garden of Remembrance said more than any speech.

We may be moving to a definition of Republicanism that is more confident, and also more at ease, with our former occupier. There is now a chance that our future relationship with Britain will at least resemble a partnership of equals.”

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THANK YOU: RECOGNISING THE COMMITMENT AND DEDICATION OF UNSUNG HEROES

Honouring the work of all our volunteers ID you know that 2011 has been designated European Year of the Volunteer?

No! Well now you do; so, for those of you who’ve been thinking about volunteering but who’ve so far only paid this thought lip service, now is the time to do something about it. I mean, hasn’t your mother always told you that, “it’s far better to give than receive”.

But, have you ever wondered why people volunteer? I mean, why work for no pay? Right!

Well, while I believe there are various reasons why people choose to donate their free time and talents out of the goodness of their hearts, I would imagine that the most obvious one is having a sense of purpose.

This is usually driven by a need to give something back. Believe me, it’s absolutely immeasurable the positive difference a volunteer can make to a struggling charitable organisation.

So, with that sentiment in mind, I’d like to dedicate this week’s column to the Dublin SPCA’s unsung heroes, the lifeblood of our society; our wonderful, amazing, volunteers!

Yes, you all know who you are! You are the people who make

D

it all possible, who give unselfishly of your time, your love, your support, your compassion, your friendship, your humanity and your dedication to our staff and our animals, day in, day out.

You are a critical part of society. Without you we’d be lost.

Every hour of every day you, the Dublin SPCA volunteers make a worthwhile contribution to our work, both economically and socially.

In its 171-year history, the Dublin SPCA’s reputation has been steeped in tradition, not just for promoting humanity and compassion, not just for saving animals’ lives, but for its legion of volunteers who have imbued upon us, the staff, a sense of strength and spirit that has inspired us, making us realise just how privileged we are to have you.

We rely heavily upon your commitment, your love for our animals, your eagerness to help and we appreciate every single minute you give us.

You come here and you make a connection, not just with our animals but with us and with each other, giving everyone a sense of belonging, a sense that we are all working toward one common goal – to build

a better future for animals.

So, if sometimes we hold back on telling you just what a wonderful human being you are, or forget to mention that you’re doing an amazing job, please understand, we have an unending supply of appreciation for you in our hearts.

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

‘You are exceptional human beings, each and every single one of you’ --------------------------

We know and recognise your enthusiasm, it gives us heart. However, during those busy periods at the shelter, (er, like now while we’re in the middle of kitten season), we may forget to nurture that enthusiasm.

We may forget to say thanks, forget to say how cherished you are, how your unselfishness has helped shape our shelter.

But, deep down inside, we hold eternal gratitude for you and for the excellent work you do.

You have made our concerns your concerns and, for this, we love you and will always love you.

So, whether it’s simply

Dublin SPCA volunteers thanked for their fantastic contribution, every hour of every day

a case of saying “thank you for turning up today,” or “great job socialising those puppies,” you, our volunteers should know your contribution has managed to transform the repetitious tasks of daily shelter life into hours of mutual love, support and care.

And, in spite of whatever stresses that may come our way, please understand that you are not taken for granted.

Your help is appreciated, your presence enriches, you are the heart of our society, we honour your commitment and offer you our unyielding love and gratitude.

You are exceptional human beings, each and every single one of you.

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

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18 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs MEN GET MORE STRESSED:

THEY may be the butt of chauvinist jokes but it seems women drivers could end up having the last laugh, according to new research by satnav firm, TomTom. T h a t ’s b e c a u s e men’s stress levels soar a staggering seven times higher than a woman’s when stuck in heavy traffic.

Psychologists tested volunteers for the rise in stress chemicals in their saliva when caught up in a traffic jam. The levels for women in the study increased by 8.7% while stuck behind the wheel but for men it shot up by a worrying 60% in the same gridlock scenario.

That could be unhealthy as it puts pressure on the heart and can cause dizziness and breathing problems yet, remarkably, many had no idea they were suffering from stress.

IMPORTS WON’T PAY OFF – VW: EUROPEAN buyers of a US-built lowerpriced Passat would face thousands of euros in import charges, VW says.

Volkswagen has said that European customers importing lower-priced Passats built in its new US factory in Chattanooga, Tennessee, will end up paying more than if they buy a more expensive Germanbuilt Passat.

VW has done a test calculation to prove that importing the US-built vehicle into Europe would not pay off.

According to the calculation, transport, car testing and import duty costs, as well as the cost of retrofitting lights, will add thousands to the cost of the cars.

The new Ford Grand C-Max is the longer version of the C-Max, with seven seats and twin sliding doors

Ford take it to the Max Ford has boosted its C-Max options with a new seven-seat version. MICHAEL MORONEY drove the new Ford Grand C-Max ORD has added more options for the C-Max people carrier that was introduced to Ireland at the end of last year. The car retains its compact size and there is now the option of a sevenseat version.

For Ireland, Ford offers only diesel power in response to a market that is now overwhelmingly diesel due to lower motor tax rates and obviously better economy. For the C-Max there is the option of a 1.6-litre entrylevel diesel model or two versions of the 2.0-litre diesel.

My test car, which I took across the Irish Sea for a lengthy drive, was the smaller engine version with the higher Titanium specification. This 1.6-litre

F

SPECS: FORD C-MAX 1.6TDCI Top speed: 170 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 13.3 secs Economy: 21.7 km/litre (4.6 l/100km) CO2 emissions: 119g/km Road Tax Band: A (€104) Scrappage Eligible: Yes Warranty: 2 years Entry Price: €24,495

turbo-diesel engine has been upgraded, according to Ford, for better economy.

My test covered over 1,200km across Irish and British roads, with lots of motorway cruising. The 95bhp engine performs well on the open road, but there is a noticeable lack of power when needed. The engine torque at 230Nm is lower than some of the similar

size competition, such as the Renault Grand Scenic or Mazda5, and that’s noticeable when you want to push on.

The acceleration pace is 14.3 seconds for the bigger Grand C-Max; you shave a second off this for the slightly smaller fiveseat version. The Grand C-Max is a shade slower than the competition and that’s a power and torque feature, which the entry level, 1.6-litre diesel model is slightly short on.

The economy rating of the car is impressive at 20km/litre (4.9 litre/100km) and that’s marginally better than the competition.

Ford has a new sixspeed gearbox for the C-Max and it’s a joy to use.

The gear shift is smooth

and easy with the lever in a convenient position.

As a people carrier, a car like the Grand C-Max needs to have plenty of storage areas. With the seven seats in place, in my case six, as the smaller middle seat was absent, the boot storage area is a little limited. This makes cars like the Grand C-Max with the sevenseat capacity more suited to short, full-load runs.

If you are planning on a long, full family holiday journey with all the seats occupied, then you’ll have to consider investing in a roof box; there’s simply no room for a significant luggage load.

The extra row of seats is very useful for school runs and local jobs.

The car has lots of lit-

tle storage areas in doors, etc, and there are loads of options in terms of styling, including seat back trays.

The under-floor storage areas in the rear are a little small to be practical.

The seven-seat Grand C-Max also comes with a new rear seat belt minder system.

This alerts the driver if any of the seat belts in the second or third row seats are not correctly fastened; a helpful feature if young children are travelling in the car.

The entry-level cars are well fitted out with 16” alloy wheels, front fog lights, rear privacy glass, heated windscreen, Bluetooth voice control, air conditioning, electric front windows, remote radio CD and leather steering

wheel and gear knob. The bigger Grand C-Max gets rear parking sensors and foldable mirrors, power child locks, rear seat belt minder and electric rear windows included in the extra €3,000 price.

The safety deal also includes Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) which cannot be overridden.

The entry price for the C-Max models is €24,495, while you need to spend an additional €3,000 for the seven-seat Grand C-Max model.

The Grand C-Max is a solid car to drive, with a good driving position, modern styling and a high level of features. It needs more power at the lower end as it aims for better economy.

Don’t be mobile phone distracted this weekend IF you’re planning to be out on the roads this Bank Holiday weekend, you’d best focus on keeping safe and focused on driving. Gardai are expected to step up enforcement, not only for drink-driving and speeding offenders, but also for those talking and texting behind the wheel.

Every year there are thousands of injuries caused by people who talk or, worse still, text while driving their car or truck. I’ve seen them myself and it’s alarming, especially to see truck drivers sending texts.

US research has shown that nine percent of all drivers are talking on

mobile phones, which make them four times as likely to crash; and drivers who read or type text messages contribute to thousands of crashes per year. There is plenty of local anecdotal evidence to show that people being distracted by mobile phones cause thousands of accidents each year, many of which are

never reported.

We all need to spread the word about distraction and emphasise this point: No message or call is worth the risk; when you get into your car, truck or van, turn your phone off or use hands-free and, better still, put the mobile in the glovebox.

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY

PORTMARNOCK: ASKING The inside’s out: B&Q’s latest range PRICE OF €475,000 of cutting-edge patio furniture B&Q are leaping into the summer mood with the launch of a selection of coun-

try, contemporary and heritage products that can help create the ideal environment for relaxing and entertaining outdoors in your garden.

The styles on offer are: Country, with rustic styles that never go out of fashion, including the Capri three-piece bistro set at €365; Contemporary, with sleek shapes and cool colours, with a range of B&Q’s cutting-edge chairs, tables and accessories to give a garden or conservatory a truly modern feel, with the Jersey garden set at €1,153; and Heritage, where B&Q can help introduce a sense of timeless elegance to your terrace or patio with woven rattan and intricate mosaic designs, including the Cobbo coffee set, at €970.

Number 104, Ardilaun, in Portmarnock is on the market with an asking price of €475,000

Super semi in Ardilaun NOEL Kelly Estate Agents are bringing No. 104 Ardilaun, Portmarnock, a four-bedroom semi-detatched family home, to the market for €475,000.

From the moment you open the hall door, you are impressed by the space and light this Sorohan-built home has to offer. The vendor is keen to sell, so make it a priority to inspect.

Modern in design and layout, this home provides comfort and flexible living accommodation that can adapt to the changing needs of any family.

The house is complimented by a secluded landscaped rear garden which is laid in lawn with a variety of shrubs and bordered by a colourful display of plants that contribute to the welcoming aspect which the property presents. The orientation is south facing and there is a large decking, perfect for al fresco dining in those summer months.

The front garden driveway is tarmacadam, providing parking for two or three cars.

The property also features a garage, which could be easily converted into a study should

the new owners require more space. Viewing is by appointment only, and can be arranged by contacting Noel Kelly on 01 846 2752.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with decorative timber floor, kitchen with fitted wall and floor units, integrated fridge freezer, oven hob and extractor fan, ceramic tiled floor.

The lounge has a marble fireplace and doors to the patio. Upstairs the bedrooms have fitted wardrobes, while the master bedroom has a walk-in wardrobe, sloping ceiling and storage space.

The bathroom has a new white suite, electric Triton shower, tiled floor and walls, shower screen and accessories.

The property also features a large garage, a side entrance and Upvc double-glazed windows.

The garage could be easily converted into a study should the new owners require more space, and the carpets, curtains and blinds are included in the sale.

Viewing is by appointment only, and can be arranged by contacting Noel Kelly on 01 846 2752.

PORTMARNOCK: A FOUR-BED DETACHED HOME FOR €695,000

Family home ultimate in relaxing elegance NOEL Kelly Estate Agents are bringing No. 126, Drumnigh Wood, Portmarnock, a fourbedroom detatched family home set in a private estate, to the market for €695,000.

Houses in Drumnigh Wood are always sought after and this will be no exception. This prestigious development, which extends to c 156 sq m or c1,680 sq ft, is in a fine setting and the estate avails of 24-hour security surveillance.

No. 126, Drumnigh

Wood also features gas-fire central heating, decorative timber floors, a side entrance, two double garages, a cobblelock driveway, and a large, westerly orientation rear garden with patio.

Stylish decor, a cheerful ambience, spacious accommodation makes this the perfect home in which to live, entertain and provide the ultimate in comfort and relaxing elegance.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with wooden floor, a large

Number 126, Drumnigh Wood, in Portmarnock

living room with a feature bay window, a feature fireplace and connecting doors to the sunroom, which features velux roof lights. The kitchen/dining room has fitted wall and floor units, integrated oven hob and extractor, dishwasher, fridge freezer, a feature island unit, as well as a marble worktop and a tiled floor, and has a door leading to the util-

ity room. The three main bedrooms have fitted wardrobes and the master bedroom is en suite, with a power shower and tiled floor.

The main bathroom has a jacuzzi bath, tiled floor, recess lighting, and heated towel rail.

There is a large rear garden, which is laid out in lawn, with a variety of plants, shrubs, and patio.

There are a host of amenities close by, including the famous Velvet Strand and Promenade, the breathtaking coastal walk from Portmarnock to Malahide, the Sports and Leisure Centre, as well as excellent shopping and transport facilities.

Viewing is by appointment, and can be arranged by contacting Noel Kelly on 01 846 2752.

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Mark Bownes, Carpet and Flooring Concepts

Husband and wife team know flooring

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS WEDDING FUNDS AND INSURANCE Q – We are saving for our wedding in 18 months time, and trying to save € 650 a month. Where

MARK Bownes is married to Niamh and has two children, Isobel, who is three-years-old, and Nathan, who is one. When not working in the showroom, Mark enjoys taking them walking by the seaside in Dun Laoghaire.

Having worked in flooring retail for many years, Mark took over the family store with Niamh.

Niamh previously ran Curves’ fashions from the store with her mother, Muriel.

On Muriel’s retirement, Mark and Niamh have taken the business in a new direction, opening the successful Carpet and Flooring Concepts.

The husband-and-wife team have a great understanding of the carpet business and follow the latest colour and design trends.

Niamh is able to apply her fashion-buying background into helping customers put together the perfect colours when designing a room.

Mark Bownes, of Carpet and Flooring Concepts

is the best place to save and can you insure any part of a wedding ? Patricia – Dun Laoghaire A - Congratulations on setting the date and saving together at this stage augurs well for your future.

The very best type of account to save your money on a monthly basis is the Regular Saver Account – most of the deposit takers currently operate them. These were originally launched in 2007 by AIB Bank to continue the good saving habits of the SSIA investors. Simply put, you save between € 100 and € 1,000 per month for between 12 and 24 months, and you can earn up the 4% interest. Ulster Bank (Special Interest deposit account ) and EBS ( Family regular saver account ) are the two current best offering that 4%. In 18 months time, you will have saved € 11,700, plus interest to help you celebrate your big day. As regards the insurance, you can buy wedding insurance to cover such risks as • Cancellation

• Personal accident

• Rings, flowers and cake

• Wedding gifts

• Photography and video

• Legal expenses

• Ceremonial / bridal attire

• Personal liability

• Cars and transport

• Marquee extension

• Failure of suppliers

• Extended public liability

To cover a wedding up to c. €10,000 and take out three-star cover, the premium would be c. €80. Web sites to check out that offer such cover include,

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

A: A racing driver.

Q: What was your first job?

A: Selling furniture and beds in a department store.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: Just about enough to pay for a couple of nights out at the weekend.

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: Niamh and I opened carpet and flooring concepts in September 2010

Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed?

A: Yes, I helped out in a restaurant kitchen for a short time, chefs are exactly as we see on TV! Crazy!

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Getting positive feedback from our customers, it means we all did our jobs well for them.

Q: have you achieved anything

www.weddinginsurance.ie and www.irishwedddin-

that you once thought you could not pull off?

A: Yes, when we got engaged, I managed to surprise Niamh with a trip to Paris. She had no idea about the destination, even at the airport.

A: Pulp Fiction, never tire of watching it. Brilliant!

Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward?

A: Jedward.

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Eating out occasionally.

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Five.

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

A: The floor fitting, apart from that, Niamh and I do everything.

Depeche Mode to UB40 and reggae.

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

A: A cup of coffee!

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Carpet and Flooring

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

A: I very rarely have coffee at

Concepts.

split his head open on a boys’ holiday! Very funny after though, the doctor stitched his head ok, but had to shave a patch of his hair off! A unique look for the rest of the holiday.

Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update?

A: Probably carpet offers on

my desk!

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Richard Branson’s Necker

the shop’s Facebook page.

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: I watch football, and I am a

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: I like most foods, especially

Island with my family! Can you arrange that?

Spurs’ supporter.

Indian or Italian, so either with a nice red wine.

occasionally with my friends.

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

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

A: Enda Kenny.

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: Mainly music from the 80s,

Q: What sport can you play?

A: I play poor snooker and golf

ginsurance.ie - best of luck Patricia !

www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: My mate, Charlie, fell and

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Ferrari test driver Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: Drive across America in a classic American car.

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*based on standard industry measurements

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22 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Belfast Titanic Maritime Festival and the Sea Bangor Maritime Festival NORTHERN Ireland will be marking its rich seafaring history with not one, but two, summer festivals celebrating all things maritime. The Belfast Titanic Maritime Festival and the Sea Bangor Maritime Festival run on consecutive weekends in June and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) is urging visitors to jump aboard and enjoy the action-packed family events.

The Belfast Titanic Maritime Festival, taking place from June 24 – 26 at Queen’s Quay and Abercorn Basin, offers a weekend of fun and activity for all ages.

Some of the world’s most spectacular tall ships will sail into Belfast and members of the public will have the opportunity to board and explore many of the vessels. Among the flotilla will be the HMS Bounty, which proved very popular during its last visit to the city in 2009. The magnificent ship was built in 1784 and served in the British Admiralty after being commissioned as His Majesty’s Armed Vessel in 1787. Other famous tall ships docking for the festival include Lord Nelson, Pelican of London, Johanna Lucretia and Irene.

A wide range of activities will run alongside the visiting ships and families can enjoy street entertainers, arts and crafts, live music, and a variety of other family fun activities. Not to be missed are water-based spectator events, including a pirate battle re-enactment on the River Lagan between ships Zebu and Vilma.

Also arriving to Queen’s Quay as part of the festival will be the International Market, bringing tastes from all around the world.

The sixth Sea Bangor Maritime Festival takes place on June 18 and 19 at Bangor Marina and seafront in Co Down and highlights of this year’s festival include the return of HMS Bangor to the Eisenhower Pier, where visitors will have the chance to find out what life on a military ship is really like.

In the festival’s tented village, celebrity chef Matt Tebbutt joins many local suppliers to cook up a storm at the Food Fayre. Also in the tented village is Bangor’s first ever Baby Rave, complete with DJ, lighting, projections and pram parking.

To find out more about the Maritime Festivals, the Titanic tours, or for further information on places to stay or things to see and do in Northern Ireland, check out the free booking and advice service at NITB’s Tourist Information Centre in Suffolk Street Dublin 2, callsave 1850 230 230 or click on www.discovernorthernireland.com.

Waiting to relax in style in Wicklow LAURA WEBB

IF anyone had heard me on the way to Wicklow, they would have thought they were travelling with a very impatient three-yearold... are we there yet, are we there yet, I chanted in my partner, Johnny’s ear.

I’m not sure if it was the excitement of the weekend, or whether it was the fact that, in 45 minutes time, I was to be treated to a spa treatment that promised to rehydrate environmentally stressed skin and be the “ultimate indulgence” for anyone thinking of playing a spot of golf, or indeed after a round.

The trip from Dublin 15 to Druids Glen Resort in Wicklow took less than expected, and we arrived just a half an hour before my appointment with relaxation.

Druids Glen Resort in Wicklow is surrounded by lush landscapes and has plenty of amenities to offer, including a spa (below, left) and is also one of Ireland’s renowned hotspots for golfers

Landscape

We had heard of the beautiful surroundings of Druids Glen Resort, and upon arrival we weren’t disappointed with the amazing landscape and views in the background.

Walking into the hotel, we became extras in someone’s wedding who had arrived at the same time as us. Ducking our heads behind the newlyweds, I think we avoided ruining their welcoming and great picture opportunity.

Like any other girl, I just couldn’t help but have a proper look at the bride, who looked stunning in an off-white satin gown. Her bridesmaids were also just as beautiful in peach, taking pictures in the stunning foyer of Druids Glen.

With the bags now in the room, which are extremely spacious and well-designed, my other half and I were ready

for the “ultimate indulgence”.

The relaxation room in the spa looked incredible, definitely an area I would have no problem relaxing in after a massage.

We were both booked in for the Druids Glen signature treatment, also known as the Druids ritual involving a 45-minute all over massage and 30minute Elemis facial.

Joanne, miracle hands we will call her, worked wonders on relaxing my ever stressed mind and body.

The aroma in the

room, made by the smell of papaya in the Elemis skincare range, helped to send me deeper into relaxation. Combine that with the facial and it turns out that this ritual does exactly what it says on the tin.

Golf hotspot

Walking through the grounds, anyone can see, including a non-golfer like myself, why this is one of Ireland’s renow ned hotspots for golfers. And for any enthusiast, it is certainly one to experience.

For dinner there was just one word Johnny used to describe his meal of caramelised smoked duck starter, steak with stuffed tomato and banoffee pie, and that was “EPIC”.

For me, it was the tasty soup of the day, carrot and coriander. My main, baked crushed monkfish with pesto crust – was cooked to perfection with a leek and carrot ragout that left me wanting to lick the plate. A freshly cooked mixed-berry crumble with lemon posset also went down a treat.

Chatting with a lovely waitress, Maeve, rumours that the Welsh football team were staying at the hotel were confirmed, which made me love this hotel even more.

Well, if it is good enough for an international football team like the handsome Welsh, then it’s good enough for me.

To find out more about Druids Glen, or to see what special offers and room rates are available, log onto www.druidsglenresort.com

2 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

BudgetTravel Accommodation across the globe that won’t cost you the earth

FOR a range of quirky and bizarre accommodation around the globe, that doesn’t cost the earth, go to www.hostelworld.com for some interesting and exciting choices.

Choose from sleeping in a giant mushroom, floating on water, or even curling up with the local wildlife in a tree house, to make your holiday an adventure that will never be forgotten.

For travellers looking for a change of scenery above and beyond the view outside the window, the travel experts at Hostelworld.com have handpicked their most popular unique and unusual hostels from around the world to excite the most adventurous of travellers.

Kadir’s Tree House in Turkey Scotland’s RockNess Festival has an iconic landmark as its backdrop

Rock the most beautiful, small festival in the world FESTIVAL fever is about to take over Scotland next weekend with RockNess, hailed as the Most Beautiful Festival in the World and winner of Best Small Festival at this year’s NME Awards.

While most festivals take place in vast fields and campsites, RockNess provides a surprising way to experience an iconic Scottish landmark – the world famous Loch Ness from June 10 to 12.

Over the weekend, festival-goers will experi-

ence the biggest headline acts with the mighty Kasabian unveiling tracks of their hotly anticipated new album for the first time on the Friday night, and dance icons, The Chemical Brothers, set to rock the Loch on Saturday night.

Speaking about their return to RockNess, Ed and Tom, of The Chemical Brothers said: “This will be the first time we have played in Scotland since 2008, and so it’s really exciting to be head-

lining one of our favourite festivals. RockNess is an amazing place to play and we can’t wait to be back there again.”

Buzzing

Scottish singer songwriter Paolo Nutini, who says he is “buzzing at the prospect”, will close the festival in a landmark gig on Sunday, June 12.

Other acts appearing this year include Mark Ronson, Nero and Katy B on the Friday, The Cribs, Annie Mac, Exam-

ple and comedian Sean Hughes on Saturday, and Glasvegas, The Wombats, We Are Scientists and Beardyman on Sunday.

Ticket details are available through www.rockness.co.uk, Ticketmaster or, for further information, email info@rockness.co.uk.

To plan your break to RockNess, and for a range of offers on accommodation and attractions throughout Scotland, visit www.visitscotland. com/surprise.

The Irish Three Tenors help Relaxing summer dining celebrate hotel birthday at Cullen’s at the Cottage TO celebrate The Heritage Golf and Spa Resort’s sixth birthday, the Irish Three Tenors will be playing live at the resort on Friday, June 3.

Joined by a star violinist, Ireland’s very own and hugely successful, John Scott, David Martin and Declan Kelly, the concert aims to raise funds for Emer O’Hora, team member at The Heritage Golf and Spa Resort, who is taking

part in the ladies, mini marathon on the June bank holiday weekend in Dublin in aid of the cancer support Cuisle Centre in Portlaoise.

A r a t e o f € 18 0 for a double delu xe guestroom, including breakfast and two tickets to the Three Tenors Concert is also available.

Visit www.theheritage.com, e-mail info@ theheritage.com or call 05786 45500.

CULLEN’S at the Cottage, on the grounds of Ashford Castle, opened its doors for informal summer dining recently.

A short stroll across the bridge from the castle lies the thatched cottage of Cullen’s, where locally sourced produce can be enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere.

Offering an a la carte menu, with a little something for everyone, there is also an evening

bar service topped off with evening entertainment. Cullen’s is open to Castle residents and non-residents alike.

Though reser vations are not essential, they are advised to avoid disappointment.

Cullen’s at the Cottage is open seven days a week, from 12pm to 10pm.

For more information contact 094 954 6003 or go to www.ashford.ie.

KADIR’S Tree House in Turkey gives every traveller the opportunity to live their childhood dream and sleep in a real tree house. There are over 45 to choose from and to get to them you must climb up ladders before resting for the evening. If you don’t feel like resting, you will enjoy a night out in one of the hostel’s three bars or two nightclubs. Rates are from €9.36 pp/per night – go to www.hostelworld. com/hosteldetails.php/Kadirs-Tree-House/Olympos/798.

Historic lighthouse in California ON the rugged California coast, just 25 miles south of San Francisco, sits the Point Montara Fog Signal and Light Station. Established in 1875, the historic lighthouse and turn-of-the-century buildings have been preserved and restored to create a unique and bizarre hostel. Today Point Montara Lighthouse is still a beacon for travellers from all over the world. Prices start at €19.30 pp/per night – go to http://www.hostelworld. com/hosteldetails.php/ HI-Point-Montara-Lighthouse/Montara/1838

Arkabarka Floating Hostel on the river Danube ARKABARKA Floating Hostel is situated in one of the most beautiful central parks of Belgrade, on the river Danube. This place uniquely combines the exotic natural feeling of the river, with the urban comfort of contemporary wooden architecture. There is a cozy cafe welcoming Belgradians, that gives guests the opportunity to mingle with locals.

Prices from €15, or go to http://www.hostelworld. com/hosteldetails.php/ ArkaBarka-Floating-Hostel/Belgrade/24507

24 LUCAN GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

1

GoingOUT GoingOUT MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Corus Concert

COMPRISING singers who may not have trained academically, yet can sing beautifully with joy in their heart, Corus – the choir that does not have auditions, does not require members to be able to read music, and is open to anyone who loves to sing – will see 80 members performing a wide range of songs.

From classic bands like The Beatles through to more contemporary acts like Bruno Mars, Chorus will hit all the right notes with an exciting and uplifting performance.

The concert starts on Thursday, June 2, at 8pm, with admission costing €10.

Tarry Flynn THE life of a 1930s’ Cavan farmer, poet and dreamer will be brought to vibrant life in a celebratory fifth anniversary show at The Mill, which is marking its birthday in style with this superb production. There’s something for everyone in this production, with this tale of a simple man with a complex heart from a bygone era having much to enjoy for audiences today. The production runs from Wednesday, June 8 to Saturday, June 18, with admission priced at €18, €15.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 The Ballet Ruse THE beautiful world of ballet may be sent spinning – or pirouetting – by two budding ballerinas, who go from bar to barre in a bid to fulfil their dreams. Lady GaGa rubs shoulders with Tchaikovsky in a show that’s not afraid to step up to the mark to present wonderful, imaginative dancing with a twist. The Ballet Ruse plays at 8pm in the Main Auditorium on Saturday, June 4, at 8pm, with admission priced at €15/€12 conc.

The Chastitute ONE of Ireland’s best-loved plays comes to life at Draiocht, as Going Out turns to another rural farmer, this time in Kerry, where John Bosco is a middle-aged countryman reflecting on his life. Stuck in eternal celibacy, thanks to all kinds of reasons – and not a little bad luck – John Bosco reflects on his predicament, even though not everything he blames for his situation may have actually happened ...

Staged in style by the skilled members of the Coolmine Drama Circle, this is a fine, comedic play that theatregoers will love. The Chastitute plays at 8.15pm in Draiocht Circle until Saturday, June 4, with admission priced at €16/€13 conc.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Ghosts AWARD-winning Irish playwright Frank McGuinness has turned his considerable skills to bear on a dramatic new version of Isben’s Ghosts, presented here by London Classic Theatre.

Telling of the preparations for the opening of an orphanage in tribute to her husband, the widow Helene Alving is awaiting the return of her son, Oswald, for the momentous occasion. However, his return turns the fraught event down a road that could lead to tragedy, as the ghosts of long-past events and secrets begin to come out ... Ghosts will be staged at 8pm from Thursday, June 2 to Saturday, June 4, with admission priced from €15.20 to €21.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 The Witches ROALD Dahl’s classic tale of witches and clever children comes screaming into town with a bewitching production, adapted by David Wood. Ranging in age from threeyears-old up to adults, Witches promises to put everyone under its spell, as dastardly plans must be foiled by some clever kids, if they can overcome their fears of the scary w-w-witches ... The production is running nightly at 7pm until this Saturday, June 4 with admission priced at €15, or €10 for children aged under 10.

In this reboot for the X-Men series, we turn to the 1960s where, once upon a time, Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Erik Lehnsherr (Michael Fassbender) were friends, before Professor X (Charles) would use his special powers to protect Humanity, and Magneto (Erik) his, to attack it

The neXt instalment

With a stiff breeze from the Cold War behind it, this film franchise reboot should be a bit of a hot property again Q KATE CROWLEY

THESE are historic times we live in. Newspapers all around the world are cranking out articles based on the same big story, sharing something that the Irish people, and Dubliners, can all look back on and remember, for years to come.

Yes, that’s right – Mel Gibson is almost back on our screens, with The Beaver.

However, Mel, and his bizarre film (telling of a troubled man who learns to laugh, to live, to love again – all courtesy of the beaver hand puppet which he uses to communicate with the world) ain’t this week’s gem, folks, but we do have a highly-polished film for your consideration, instead.

Remember the X-Men? No, not Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh, but, rather, the hit series of

FILM OF THE WEEK: X-Men: First Class ++++ (12A) 132 mins Director: Matthew Vaughn Starring: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Oliver Platt, Kevin Bacon, January Jones, lots of determined Mutants

OUR VERDICT: PURISTS may moan about the origins of two of the most iconic comic book characters of all time, let alone the way in which they gather their respective gangs, but there’s still a briskly enjoyable film here. True, there are still a few too many lashings and lashings of angst, oh, the angst for Kate to stomach, but it’s a good, and thoughtful, reboot for a franchise that had become a little stale ...

films from a few years ago, telling of the popular Marvel Comics characters.

Starring Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellan, as well as – well, nobody remembers the other characters, bar Hugh Jackman as Wolverine – the films were a pretty decent sci-fi series, before eventually wobbling and coming to a juddering halt under the weight of their own gravitas and the angst, ooh, the angst!

Cue the inevitable Hollywood reboot for

the series, and, in triedand-tested fashion, it’s time to delve deeper into the origins of the X-Men, before they were X-Men, before Mutants came out of the woodwork (or walking through walls, or flying through the air, or turning into steam, or whatever).

Following the mythology of the recent films, X-Men: First Class jumps back to the youth of the series’ chief protaganists; Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Erik Lehnsherr (Michael

Fassbender); back to the 1960s, before the world truly knew of the Mutants among Man. Here, when they were just Charles and Erik, rather than Professor X and Magneto, the two young men, coming from very different pasts, spark up an unlikely but intense friendship, respecting the opposing qualities in each other’s unique powers and skills.

Howe ve r, w h e r e Charles seeks to educate the world about how Mutants should be respected as equals, Erik sees Mutants as the next step for humanity, and superior to ordinary men, whom he sees as an evolutionary dead end.

With the world suddenly thrown into peril, thanks to the Cuban Missile Crisis, the opportunity to take Mutants out of hiding presents itself.

However, where one

would seek to use extraordinary powers to stop the crisis, another sees an opportunity to change the order of things, on a global scale.

The only problem is, the Hellfire Club, led by Sebastian Shaw (Kevin Bacon), is also working away behind the scenes, and the secret society will play a greater role on the X-Men’s future than at first appears ...

The shadow of Stewart and McKellan looms large over First Class, but McAvoy and Fassbender do well, taking such iconic and defined characters and putting an interesting spin on them.

Briskly moving along at a satisfying pace, coupled with some punchy action pieces, and with some interesting thoughts befhind all the bombast and CG set pieces, I have to give some good marks for this First Class ...

2 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 25

A Cloud is a core plan for Apple ADAM MAGUIRE

THE way that people buy and listen to music has changed dramatically in recent years –Apple’s iTunes has been at the centre of that.

Now, Apple is about to launch a new product that could shake things up once more, so what will it do, and what makes it so special?

The idea Apple has recently been signing a number of agreements with music companies such as EMI and Sony to let its artists be carried on a new, online music service.

The idea is that people will pay for access to songs “in the cloud”, rather than having them downloaded to their computer.

Why do this?

People nowadays often use a lot of different devices on a daily basis.

They might have a home and office computer, a phone in their pocket, and maybe even a tablet.

Keeping all of your songs up to date on all of these things can be a bit of a balancing act, so the idea here is that you will not have to.

If you want to hear the songs you bought, you just need to go online and play them, hassle-free.

The cost Apple has been tight-

lipped about the service, so it is currently unclear how it will be offered.

It might be that you pay for access on a songby-song basis; it is also quite possible to be a subscription service, where you pay a monthly fee to access the entire catalogue of music.

Another potential route is that it simply acts as an online “locker”, where people can put the music they have already bought online so that it is accessible anywhere.

When will it launch?

Rumours are it will be unveiled by Apple at a conference in early June.

However, it might take a while for it to hit Irish shores, though, especially if country-specific rights deals have to be hammered out first.

Are there any alternatives?

Yes. Amazon have a cloud player, and Google recently launched its Music Beta service in the US. Both allow users to upload their music online so that they can access it wherever they are.

Another option is Spotify, which has a massive catalogue of music that can be streamed by users, without ads, for a monthly fee.

However, that is also currently not available in Ireland ...

Epson BX320FW While technically an office printer, the Epson BX320FW is affordable, and useful enough, to find pride of place in any home or even home office.

Boasting high print speeds, greater ink efficiency and an easy setup, there is a lot for the BX320FW to live up to.

After all, the printe r m a r ke t is quite c r owd e d at the moment, e v e n when it comes to those that offer print, scan and copy facilities.

However, this device holds its own in every regard. It is fast, quiet and efficient and, once you have a wireless network at home, it is very easy to set up.

At the front of the device is a very straightforward panel – much like one you would see

on a photocopier, only more simple – which makes it very easy indeed to navigate and use.

This printer is not the

smallest in the world, but it would be ideal for any user that will be printing a lot of documents, and the occasional photo.

It also comes with a range of software to make the process of

editing and printing scanned documents all the easier.

It’s cer tainly well worth considering for users looking for more

than your basic printer fare.

The Epson BX320FW printer is available on Pixmania.ie for €193, plus P&P. Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

GAZETTE

26 LUCAN GAZETTE 2 June 2011

LUCANclassifieds

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

RECYCLING

DENTAL

WINDOWS & DOORS

PLANNING NOTICE

PLANNING NOTICE

SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

I, HAROON KAHN, intend to apply for permission at this site NO.30 CHALET GARDENS, LUCAN, COUNTY DUBLIN. The development will consist of WORKS TO EXISTING TWO STOREY DWELLING TO INCLUDE, AN EXTENSION TO FRONT, REAR AND SIDE OF THE EXISTING DWELLING. ALSO TO CONVERT THE EXISTING GARAGE, CONVERSION OF AT TIC, INTERNAL ALTERATIONS, WIDENING OF FRONTENTRANCE AND ALL ANCILLARY SITE WORKS. The planning 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, Mon-Fri. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

I, Eugene Heary, intend to apply for planning permission for the removing, raising and re-construction of an existing roof to provided further floor space to the upper ground floor level, for renovation works to the master bedroom on the lower ground floor and the renovation of an existing external WC. Works to be carried out at Carraig Well, Ardeevin Drive, Lucan, Co. Dublin. 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, Mon-Fri, 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

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2 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

MONTH OF MAY: Last month’s Sports Awards winners are announced: Page 29

LADIES’ FOOTBALL: LOCAL PLAYERS NAMED IN THE DIVISION 2 TEAM OF THE YEAR

Jackies’ defence takes all places on Team of Year sport@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN’S Cliodhna O’Connor (Naomh Mearnog), Sinéad Goldrick (Foxrock Cabinteely), Ailish McKenna (St Brigid’s), Gemma Fay (Ballyboden St Enda’s) and Sinead Aherne (St Sylvester’s), along with Siobhan McGrath, were named in the Bord Gais Energy Ladies’ Football Division 2 Team of the League at a ceremony in Croke Park last week.

In total, 26 counties are represented in the 60 players selected and each player was presented with a specially commissioned kit to mark their achievement.

The selection process is led by team managers and referees who were asked to nominate players after each round of league matches, and managers are precluded from voting for their own players.

Speaking at the

announcement Pat Quill, President of Ladies Gaelic Football said, “It is a great personal honour for the players to be selected.

All counties have talented players and these awards may be the only opportunity that players from counties who do not reach the final stages of competitions get to be recognised.

“I thank the county managers and referees for their diligence in their nominations. These are

Cliodhna O’Connor, Sinead Goldrick, Ailish McKenna, Gemma Fay and Sinead Aherne, with Siobhan McGrath

also coveted awards by the managers in recognition of their team building skills.”

Division 2 champions, Dublin, will be thrilled with their contingent as they secured six places

and, with a goalkeeper and four defenders among them, perhaps it shows where others felt their true strength lay throughout a dominant league campaign.

The other nine places

were shared between five counties, with Meath leading the way with four places – Shauna Bennett, Katie O’Brien, Gráinne Nulty and Mary Sheridan – while Cavan, the only team to beat Dublin all

year, took home two selections for Gráinne McGlade and Aisling Doonan. Armagh, Waterford and Sligo completed the Division 2 Team of the League selection with one player each.

28 LUCAN GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport GAA

Fingallians’ Sarah Deegan

Dublin U-14s

Junior Jackies trounce the Tribe UBLIN booked their place in the 2011 All-Ireland U-14 final with a hard-fought win over reigning champions, Galway, in St Loman’s GAA, Mullingar, last week.

The goals scored were to be the deciding factor when Dublin rattled the Galway net on six occassions.

Dublin had the advantage of a strong wind behind them in the first half, and led at the interval by 4-3 to 1-5.

Galway threw everything at Dublin in the second half, but the young Dubs dug deep and defended their goal line tightly to secure this vital win.

The final score was Dublin 6-6, Galway 2-9.

Dublin will play Munster champions, Cork, in the All-Ireland final on June 11 or 12.

Dublin’s Amy Deegan, from Round Towers, in action against Galway. Pictures: GAApics.com

Kate Murray (Naomh Olaf) St Brigid’s Ann-Marie Troy

Megan Morrissey (Castleknock)

D

Emma Byrne (Castleknock)

Saoirse Tulie (St John’s Ballinteer)

Foxrock Cabinteely’s Socha Whooley

2 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 29

R1

in association with

KARATE: CLUB SHOWS STRENGTH HOME AND AWAY

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS MAY WINNERS IN ASSOCIATION WITH

+ STARof theMONTH

RYAN O’DWYER 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 man-ofthe-match in the Dubs’ comprehensive 0-22 to 1-7 success over Kilkenny in the final.

TEAMof theMONTH + SWORDS CELTIC

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 among them.

MAY was another month when the great and good of Dublin sport came to the fore and the matter of choosing winners for the Dublin Sports Awards was particularly hard.

But, looking at the achievements by each of the contenders, two clear champions emerged from among the pack.

Ryan O’Dwyer’s huge performance for Dublin in the defeat of Kilkenny, the perennial hurling supremos of recent years, was worthy of our acknowledgement.

And, with nine titles in league and cup competition across all age ranges at the club, Swoirds Celtic showed their commitment to youth develop-

ment and top-level coaching that will see them and their players be a part of our collective soccer consciousness for years to come.

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.

Leeanne Royle accepts the Charles Naylor Memorial Trophy from Sensei Andy Sheery in Birmingham

Corduff hail a real Royle performance CORDUFF Karate Club’s Leeanne Royle was recently awarded the prestigious Charles Naylor Memorial Trophy for the most outstanding child competitor at the Karate Union of Great Britain’s National Championships at the NIA Birmingham.

The competition, which is in it’s 45th year, is by far the largest championships in Britain, with over 1,000 competitors battling it out for a place in the finals.

As part of the USKF Ireland team, Leanne stormed her way through the eliminations of the girls kumite (fighting) event and went on to win the title. Leeanne also took home a bronze medal for the Under-16 kata event.

This special award, presented by the KUGB chief instructor Sensei Andy Sherry, is a major achievement for Leeanne and the Corduff Karate Club, as it is the first time in the history

of this tournament that an Irish person has won this particular prize or been placed first in their event.

Four other students took part in the Karate Union of Great Britain’s National Championships as part of the USKF Ireland team.

Corduff’s James Farrelly, Mark Maguire and Eleanore Coates fought well but narrowly missed out on places in the finals.

In the junior male category, Ryan Cullen beat some tough opponents to secure a bronze medal in his event.

National titles The club also recently sent a squad of 30 students to compete in the tenth USKFI National Championships held in the Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown.

The competition, which was the largest to date, saw many of the Corduff competitors being placed in the

finals.

For some of their junior members, this was their first major national competition, and they displayed their competitive attitude and spirit,

in particular, Yacine and Yusuf Ghanem. The two brothers fought some very spirited matches, but eventually Yacine pipped Yusuf to take home the prize.

30 LUCAN GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Tims tips Fitzpatrick for victory over Healy IRISH cruiserweight champion Ian Tims has confirmed he will take part in a four-round contest on the National Stadium-hosted Clash of the Capitals show on June 25.

He has been sharing the sparring ring with Brendan Fitzpatrick in recent times, a fighter who is building toward a huge clash with Ciaran Healy on the same night, and has been impressed by the opportunity that has been afforded him.

“I have been sparring with him for six and eight rounds and he is doing well. I am a lot stronger than Ciaran Healy and I know from our session Brendan can beat him.”

SDFL CUP: LATE GOAL GIVES KNOCKMITTEN JAMES LEE CUP TITLE

Esker Celtic celebrate Jacob Breaw’s equialiser in the James Lee Cup match against Knockmitten, but they were denied by a late goal

Esker Knock’ed in cup SDFL JAMES LEE CUP Knockmitten United 2 Esker Celtic 1 STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

JIM Brady’s controversial goal four minutes from time snatched a league and cup double for Knockmitten United’s U-13s, denying Esker Celtic at Frank Cox Park last Sunday morning.

Reminiscent of Nani’s controversial goal for M a n c h e s t e r Un i t e d against Tottenham earlier this season, Brady kept his wits about him to poke home after the goalkeeper Colm Corr thought the whistle had gone.

Corr had come through a melee to pick up an Andy Blair cross, but spun the ball out as if to take a free-kick.

But the referee indicated no such free had been given, and Brady stole in to slot home the late winner.

Afterwards, Knockmitten manager, John Blair, had sympathy for the Esker players and supporters, admitting it was “a terrible way for any team to lose a cup final”, but added that his side had been coached to the play to the whistle all season.

James Lee Cup success came just a couple of days after United had

Castle calling father and son teams: Golf club launches event THE perennially-popular Castle All

Ireland Father & Son Foursomes golf tournament will be held this year between Saturday, July 2 and Sunday, July 10, and the club are calling on interested familial pairings to register for the event now. Qualifying will take place on an 18-holes strokes format on July 2 and 3. The cost of entry is €60 per pair. A special website for the event has been set up at www. castlegc.ie/father_son.

won division two with a 3-1 win over Blessington.

It means they could be on the move up the divisions for a second year running having won U-12 division three a year earlier.

In combination with the club’s U-10 cup victory and potential league double, it makes for exciting times for the Clondalkin club.

In Rathcoole last Sunday, they got off to a dream start when Jim Brady played a sweet through ball from midfield, finding the run of Arran Kennedy who coolly slotted home.

Wind conditions made it tough for either side to

gather much momentum, slowing up Knockmitten’s intentions to play a slick passing game.

They held sway until early in the second period when Esker stormed back into the tie, Jacab Breaw firing home an excellent long-range effort after the ball broke to him 25-yards out.

And he gave the crowd a heart-stopping moment when he slipped through on the left-edge of the box and his early rolled effort drifted past goalkeeper Mikey Quinn.

Dead-weight, it took an eternity before dusting its feet off the outside of the post in an agonising moment before going

safe from a Knockmitten perspective.

Quinn produced a flying safe with the score still at 1-1 too, punching Sean McGargle’s rasping effort at full-stretch in one of the moments of the game.

His defensive wall of Donatas Vikarauskas and Arron O’Connor proved outstanding otherwise and it kept out a lively Esker forward effort.

And, from that platform, Brady’s goal took the cup home, providing an especially welcome return for Conor Fitzpatrick in his first game after a long absence due to illness.

2 June 2011 LUCAN GAZETTE 31

in association with

SARSFIELDS: LUCAN HURLERS SEEK IMPROVEMENT

CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS WELL done to U-16 girls’ football-

Michael O’Grady (087 2331983) to get

ers who finished runners-up in their

on timesheet. Visitors welcome.

league. Good win for junior A hurlers during week.

Good performances by Lucan’s

tember. Thanks to all who attended

Peter Kelly and Johnny McCaffrey in

classes and hope to see you all again

helping Dublin hurlers beat Offaly in

next term.

the championship.

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

sponsors, Renault’s barbecue, and

8 to 12 and 15 to 19. Register online via

well done to the boys and girls who

website. Discount if done before June

won signed Dublin jerseys.

30.

County Colours’ barbecue is on Fri-

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 10, 24,

day, June 10, with special guest. Tick-

25 and 27. There was no winner. Next

ets available from the bar, priced €20.

week’s jackpot is €18,500.

for sale at €15 in bar.

Absence makes the Sars grow weaker AHL DIVISION 1 Lucan Sarsfields Faughs

2-15 3-13

sport@gazettegroup.com

LUCA N S a r s f i e l d s ’ stuggles of late saw the side fall to a fifth loss of the AHL1 campaign, and they now prop up the division with the first half of the season just gone.

With senior stars like Johnny McCaffrey and Peter Kelly continuing to be unavailable due to intercounty commitments, the side were again under-strength when they travelled to Arthur Griffth Park last Saturday to face Faughs.

However, they did start brightly in bluster y conditions, and went into an early 1-3 to 0-2 lead.

Paddy Brennan’s goal for Lucan, though, was followed very quickly by a Faughs’ goal that balanced matters.

A feature of the first half was two excellent points from sideline

cuts by Kevin O’Reilly, but the inability of Lucan to clear their lines proved costly, as the visitors tagged on two more goals before the break to take the first-half initiative at 3-8 to 1-9.

Despite playing against a strong breeze, Lucan put in a strong second-half performance, with O’Reilly continuing to be prominent in play and from placed balls.

He was to end the game with a monster haul of 1-10 — 1-5 from frees along with the pair of sidelines — while an excellent Brennan point from the wing brought the sides level.

But a late Faughs’ free saw them take the two league points.

Cronan Dooley and Brendan McGarry impressed at the back with their tremendous work rate, as did Andrew Duff in the forwards, but Sarsfields were ultimately denied by the Tymon North

club who are chasing the title, this result moving them into a threeway tie for top spot in the league table.

Second defeat It was a second narrow defeat in four days for Lucan Sarsfields, as Blanchardstown side, St Brigid’s, took both points at Russell Park, winning out 1-14 to 0-15.

It leaves Sars bottom of the heap, and two points adrif t of O’Toole’s and Na Fianna, both of whom they have played already, with a game extra played.

It means taking points

off the sides further up the current chain if they are to retain their toptier status before the senior championship gets back into action later in the summer.

St Pat’s, meanwhile, had their promotion bid dealt a harsh blow at the hands of Cuala last Saturday at Glenauline Park.

In a shoot-out for first place, they struggled to get going against the Dalkey club in a fixture they had endeavoured to get switched.

Cuala stormed to a 2-16 to 0-8 success to move clear at the top of the division after six rounds of matches.

2011 Summer camps have been fixed

Thanks to all who supported our

125 Celebration ties are now available

Lucan Sarsfields’ hurlers are missing the presence of their intercounty players and are at the foot of Division 1

Set dancing classes have finished for this term. Classes resume in Sep-

Liam Mulhall’s team will be in charge for next Bank Holiday weekend.

Golf Society: Next outing to Hol-

Do not forget you can always enter

lystown on Saturday, June 11 (tee-

our Lotto online by clicking on www.

off 12noon to 2pm). Please contact

lucansarsfields.ie.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN Juvenile hurling: Under-8s and 10s

family fun day and barbecue at the

played St. Anne’s and Kevin’s; 11s

clubhouse, which commences at 12

and 12s beat Good Counsel and Ball-

midday.

inteer St John’s while 14s footballers lost to Fingallians.

Well done to the Dubs’ senior hurlers on their victory over Offaly and,

Senior hurlers had mixed luck

hopefully, the footballers can follow

with an away mid-week league vic-

suit in next Sunday’s encounter

tory over Ballyboden St Enda’s and

with Laois in Croke Park.

a home loss to Cuala on Saturday,

Tickets, which cost €25 stand, €15

while the juniors lost at home to Kil-

Hill and €25 + €5 for family, can be

macud Crokes.

collected at clubhouse this Thurs-

This Friday, June 3, is our fundraiser night at the Harold’s Cross Dogs. Buses leave the Palmerstown House at 6.45pm and return at 10.30pm.

Tickets, which cost only €15, which includes bus, entry to stadium, race

day between 7.45 and 8.45pm.

To view our website simply logon to www.stpatricksgaa.ie Lotto: Numbers drawn were 11, 15, 17 and 18.

There was no winner of the €7,400 jackpot.

card and supper, can be purchased

Match any three numbers win-

prior to getting on the bus. Children

ner were was Robbie Holmes who

under 16 are free.

receives €200.

Saturday night, June 4, is Take Me Out night in the Palmerstown House, and on Monday we have our

Next week’s jackpot is €7,600.

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

WESTMANSTOWN GAELS/GARDA Under-8s hurlers hosted Clann na Gael at home and pushed their opponents all the way.

Lots of thank-yous to every-

one.

Thank you to public representative, Councillor Kieran Dennison for his support on the night.

one that supported our table quiz

The club is organising visits to

night, especially quizmaster Mr

Croke Park this summer to support

Aidan Dardis, Geraldine Cullotty,

the Dublin footballers and hurlers

Grace O’Boyle, who ran the event

in the championship.

on the evening and, of course, David Hanley, who organised the event.

A special thank-you to all of our sponsors — So Belle Beauty Rooms, Castleknock, Kenny’s Pub, Lucan, Arc Bar, Fonthill, Helen Bennett, Conaty Cash & Carry, DID, Centra, Lucan Village, and Capital Glass.

Apologies if we have forgotten any-

Tickets can be ordered online at http://www.westmanstowngaels. ie.

Family fun day is scheduled for Saturday, June 25.

First GAA skills summer camp is scheduled from July 4 to 8.

Please come out and support all our teams, adult and juvenile.

ALL OF YOUR LUCAN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

ESKER ROCKED: Contentious late goal sees Celts miss out on SDFL title: P30

JUNE 2, 2011

STARRY EYED: May Sports Awards winners revealed P29

lucansport@gazettegroup.com

SALMON Leap’s Jenny Egan produced another superb performance to claim a silver medal in Irish colours last week in the K1 5,000m event at the recent World Cup Kayak Sprint Regatta in Racice, Czech Republic.

It was Egan’s second silver medal at this level of competition, having previously claimed a senior sprint medal at the 2010 World Cup race in Szeged in Hungary last May. In claiming that title, Egan became the first Irish person, male or female, to claim any sort of senior sprint kayaking medal and she added a second to that tally in impressive fashion on a course which consisted of one long lap of 2,000m and four short laps of 750m.

In what promised to be a hotly contested race 20 of the best 5,000m competitors in the world were on the start line.

After the first kilometre, a group of five athletes

made a break from the rest of the field, Belcher (GBR), Adamova (CZE), Zur (USA), Lehaci (Austria) and Egan.

As the race progressed the Austrian, Lehaci found the pace too hot and dropped off this leading group after two laps.

Next to fall behind from the group was the American, Zur, thus leaving a group of three to fight it out for the medals.

However, due to a miscalculation by the course umpire, the bell for the final lap was sounded at the beginning of lap four confusing the leading group.

The Czech Adamova stopped momentarily allowing Zur to overtake her before she realised there was another lap to go, but Belcher and Egan had already made a breakaway on the final lap, with Zur now in third position.

Realising her mistake Adamova gave chase to the leading three. The sprint to the finish line saw Egan just pipped with

Belcher taking gold, Egan silver and Zur bronze. Due to the confusion, the race officials awarded Adamova a silver medal also “on a fair play” ruling due to their mistake.

Speaking after the race Egan was delighted with her performance and looking forward to the next series on the World Cup circuit.

It continues her 2010 form, a year in which she just missed out on a medal at the World Marathon Kayak Championships in Banyoles, Spain, in September, ending the U-23 competition in four th place.

Her clubmate, Barr y Watkins, meanwhile, had a couple of decent runs in the competition, finishing ninth in the A final of the 500-metre race, while he also took ninth in the 1,000m B final.

He was another top performer in 2010, making the finals of the European Sprint Championships in Italy, finishing seventh overall.

Jenny Egan receives her World Cup silver medal in Racice, Czech Republic

GazetteSPORT

Egan in world’s top three