Gazette
Smart Learning and the latest tech help pupils at Scoil Oscair CNS
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Month XX, 2012 Palmerstown • Celbridge • Leixlip • Adamstown • Dodsboro • Liffey Valley • ballyowen
INSIDE: We ask top comic Jason a Byrne-ing question – how does he escape the mayhem? P15
relax: We’ve got all you need to know about Paddy’s Day celebrations P10-11
Close shave: To help out Temple Street hospital Football:
Sarsfields play out epic tussle with Ballinteer Page 31
Soccer:
Peamount back in All-Ireland Under-16 final Page 30
Find us on
ALSOINSIDE: DUBLIN LIFE................... 13 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................28
rugby player Marty Moore is pic-
tured with Paula Smith, Damien Boylan, Ger Donnellan, fundraising officer at Temple Street Hospital, Ashling Boylan and Sarah Kenny. Damien decided to hold a fundraising night to help Temple Street after his daughter, Ashling, was diagnosed with diabetes and treated at the hospital. Paula Smith from Charlie’s Barbers in Lucan did the shaving with Leinster rugby player Marty Moore. The event raised more than €1,800.
Thieves make off with scouting gear Over 270 young people affected by theft of €5,000 of camping equipment
Ian Begley
THIEVES have stolen more than €5,000 worth of camping equipment from the storage container at the scout den beside St Mary’s School, affecting more than 270 of Lucan’s
young people. S c o u t l e a d e r s we r e shocked to discover that the majority of their camping equipment was taken while preparations for this year’s camping season were under way. The specific date and time
of the break-in are unknown, but according to scout officials the incident occurred between Sunday evening, March 1, and Wednesday afternoon, March 4, when the discovery was made. Scout troop leader Brian Smith said: “This is a mas-
sive blow to the preparations for this year’s camping season.” Anyone with any information is asked to contact Lucan Garda Station on (01) 6667300. Full Story on Page 2
2 LUCAN Gazette 12 March 2015
crime More than 270 young people affected by burglary
Over €5k of scout equipment stolen THIEVES have stolen more than €5,000 worth of camping equipment from the storage container at the scout den beside St Mary’s School, affecting more than 270 of Lucan’s young people. Scout leaders were shocked to discover that the majority of their camping equipment was taken while preparations for this year’s camping season were under way. The specific date and
ian begley ibegley@gazettegroup.com
time of the break-in is not yet known, but according to scout officials the incident occurred between Sunday evening, March 1, and Wednesday after-
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noon, March 4, when the discovery was made. T h e i t e m s t a ke n include Vango dome tents, Camping-Gaz gas lanterns, Icelandic ridge tents, pots and pans, gas bottles and cast iron gas cookers. As three scout groups share their storage, more than 270 young people will be directly affected. Scout troop leader Brian Smith told The Gazette: “This is a massive blow to the preparations for this year’s camping season, which will kick off at Easter, and will severely impact on the level of scouting provided for all scouts,
from the youngest sixyear-old beaver scout to the oldest 17-year-old venture scout. “While some of this equipment is new, most of it has been well used by the young people of Lucan for years. Initial estimates are that it will cost in excess of €5,000 to replace this vital camping equipment, but the thieves will get much less than that if they try to sell it on. “In the past we’ve had a bit of trouble with young lads breaking our locks and taking a few things, but this incident is on a much greater scale. “The kids themselves are very disappointed,
The container door was damaged during the raid
but their parents are really shocked at this incident because it has put our programme under threat. “We have since had a very good response from the local community who will, hopefully, get behind us and help us to acquire new equipment for our scouts. Our first
camp is planned for the week after Easter so we’ll have to borrow stuff from other groups, but it is still a big inconvenience for us,” said Smith. The theft has been reported to gardai, who confirmed to Lucan scout officials they are investigating the burglary. Anyone with any infor-
mation regarding the missing equipment is asked to email 142.180dublin@ gmail.com or phone Lucan Garda Station on (01) 6667300. The scouts are setting up an online donation page for anyone who would like to help out at www.idonate.ie/ LucanSouth
12 March 2015 LUCAN Gazette 3
commute Public caught short by move
Irish Rail won’t spend a penny to save toilets ian begley
by commuters.
ibegley@gazettegroup.com
IRISH Rail has defended its decision to close toilets at its Adamstown, Parkwest and Fonthill train stations. The company also confirmed reports that these facilities will not be reopened. Local residents and councillors have been left feeling caught short by these recent closures which, Irish Rail said, were part of cost saving measures. Irish Rail has already closed toilets at 10 stations around the country. In addition, it has c o nve r t e d 15 o t h e r restrooms into single unisex facilities. It stated that it wanted to save approximately €450,000 a year by cutting the cost of operating toilets at its train stations. Irish Rail said it cost too much to provide heating and lighting at some of these facilities, especially those that were used infrequently
Vandals Irish Rail also said that some of these toilets had been repeatedly targeted by vandals and had been used for other antisocial behaviour. Commenting specifically on the closures of the restrooms at Adamstown, Parkwest and Fonthill train stations, a spokesperson from Irish Rail said: “The usage of toilets in these stations was very, very low and in an effort to drive efficiencies and cost reductions, we took the decision to close these toilets permanently. “There are toilets on board all services that serve these stations,” said the spokesperson. Lucan Cllr Paul Gogarty (Ind) told The Gazette that he believes these closures don’t make commercial sense. “If you’re trying to encourage people to use this service more then obviously having these restrooms open would be a sensible idea.
FastNews
Mayor calls to vote Yes for civil marriage equality SOUTH County Dublin Mayor Fintan Warfield (SF) recently attended the launch of the Yes Equality campaign and is urging local residents to vote Yes to civil marriage equality. The launch which took place at the Pillar Room of the Rotunda Hospital on March 9 saw Tanaiste Joan Burton, Ministers Alex White and Dr James Reilly among the large attendance. Speaking after the launch, Mayor Warfield said: “I am proud to support this referendum and I am urging people to vote Yes to civil marriage equality. “Irish citizens now have the opportunity to say that we value all of our relationships equally.”
Specsavers opens shop in Liffey Valley SPECSAVERS Ireland recently opened its latest store at the Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, creating 16 jobs for the area and making it the 49th Specsavers store to open in the country. TV presenter and stylist Darren Kennedy was joined by top model RosanIrish Rail has closed the toilets at Adamstown train station.
“At Adamstown train station the reason why the use of the toilets is very low is because the use of the station is very low. “The station had to be built as part of the Adamstown development plan, but during the economic downturn no houses were built in the area so the train station remained primarily unused.” Clondalkin Cllr Gino Kenny (PBP) said: “I think that if people are still boarding these trains, regardless of how few [people] there are, then there should still definitely be restrooms provided for them.” He suggested that where vandalisation was the issue the toilets could be opened only be during peak hours.
na Davison to do the official honours at the store opening on March 9. T he pair joined forces to cut the ribbon and declare the store ready for business. Commenting on the opening, store director Lisa Walsh said: “Our new store, located in the vibrant Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, is fully equipped to deliver the best in eye testing technology to our customers.”
4 LUCAN Gazette 12 March 2015
community: €180k for play area
Griffeen Park in line for a facelift ian begley
AN allocation of €245,000 has been approved for improvement works in Griffeen Valley Park and the area around the Lucan Leisure Centre as part of South Dublin County Council’s Public Realm Works Programme for 2015. The programme, which was approved at the March county council meeting, indicates that €180,000 has been allocated for the replacement of the playground in the Park. Some €65,000 will also go towards resurfacing and relining the car park and to improve the entrance to the leisure centre. These works are due to
begin later this year and plans for the replacement of the playground are due to be presented to councillors in April. Works are also due in 2015 to install a natural play space in the southern part of the park. Meanwhile, a further allocation of €180,000 has been approved for installation of a regional playground in Palmerstown. We l c o m i n g t h i s announcement, Cllr Danny O’Brien (SF) said this money would improve the area for all the people who use it. He said: “These are just some of the things I have looked for in Griffeen Valley Park. “I will be looking for a lot more to be done in improvements and
upgrades to the leisure centre. “This leisure centre is running at a loss of €80,000 a year and it needs investment in new facilities so more people will use it.” Lucan CllrWilliam Lavelle (FG) also welcomed the reconstruction of the Griffeen Valley Park playground. Speaking to The Gazette, he said: “I warmly welcome this allocation. “I am contacted on a weekly basis by local parents calling for work to repair the playground and to make it safer and more child friendly. “Lucan has a large child population and our children deserve quality play facilities,” said Cllr Lavelle.
community Reward for female endeavour
Cllr Emer Higgins (FG) wants people to nominate women they respect and admire. Picture: Jolanta Rossiter
Women who ‘make it happen’ celebrated
ian begley
LOCAL residents are being asked to nominate a woman they know, respect and admire to mark International Women’s Day, which took place on March 8. The 2015 theme of this global celebration of
women’s achievements was Make It Happen (#makeithappen). Eleven county councillors across the country are working together to shine a light on women who “make it happen” in their communities. Winners and judges in each local authority will
be invited to an event at the end of March where they will be celebrated by female members of the Oireachtas. The overall winner will be celebrated at a lunch with the “women who make it happen” in the Oireachtas, and get a make-over worth €150 from Eyre Hair. Cllr Emer Higgins (FG), who is involved, said: “To mark International Women’s Day a group of female councillors have come together to celebrate women who make it happen in their communities. I’m asking local residents to nominate a woman they know,
respect and admire, to this national competition through social media. “We all know women; mothers, aunts, businesswomen, carers, teachers and community activists who make things happen in our communities and this national competition is a celebration of each and every one of them. “It’s giving you the oppor tunity to give national credit to the local women who positively contribute to our communities,” she said. Nominations are oprn until March 15. For more details visit facebook. com/cllremerhiggins or emerhiggins.com
12 March 2015 LUCAN GAZETTE 5
Treat yourself to a good night’s sleep this March at Des Kelly Interiors
What’s behind a good night’s sleep?? At Des Kelly Interiors, they know the one escapable truth behind a good night’s sleep, everyone is different! Des Kelly Interiors have built up a reputation over the last 45 years and continually strive to bring you, the consumer the best price, formidable selection and exceptional craftmanship. They are passionate about beds, and from their choice of mattresses, right through to their bedroom furniture , all the little things that make your bedroom you own, Des has it all. Spring into action this month, and treat yourself to a good night’s sleep. It is always the last upgrade thought of by most households but it’s the change you’ll fell most presently. So many of us are sleeping
on terrible mattresses that do nothing to support our spines. Taking the time to research mattresses, find the one that’s right for you, and investing in it can make a huge difference in your sleep quality. You will sleep soundly and wake up feeling refreshed. That alone is worth the price. Des Kelly Interior’s highly trained sleep consultants can help you find the right combination , so you can unlock the perfect night’s sleep, not just for one night but every night. At
the heart of their knowledge is all the experience they have accumulated over the past 45 years, combined with exclusive technology and a never ending commitment to offer you the very best latest innovations in sleep. So why not invest in yourself this month, afterall you spend at least 1/3 of your day at bed, sleeping. At Des Kelly Interiors, they have pocket sprung beds, memory foam beds, gel latex beds, in fact, they have every bed you can think of. So call into your nearest store, and let them, the sleep specialists help you find the bed that is designed for you to deliver the best night’s sleep possible. When you sleep well, the world is a brighter place.
D
R OA
AW R D
EE DB FR EA X 2 &H S ER
6 LUCAN Gazette 12 March 2015
charity Walk in memory of Skinner A CHARITY stroll in memory of the late Adrian “Skinner” McLoughlin will take place on March 15 in aid of Pieta House. An effective organiser through the 1990s and 2000s, McLoughlin is fondly remembered, particularly for his efforts leading chants at the head of many a union rally. The stroll, organised by his family and friends, in Waterstown Park beside the River Liffey is expected to last an hour. Afterwards, everyone is invited to the Palmerstown House in Palmerstown village for a fund-raising raffle and light refreshments. For more information, visit www.facebook. com/StrollforSkinner or donate see www.mycharity.ie/event/a_stroll_for_ skinner/
courts Judge said defendant was a ‘bullyboy’
Prison term for assault on taxi driver A MAN who was part of a group that attacked a taxi driver before tying him up and taking his car has been jailed. Wayne Donnelly (28) also assaulted another man after telling him he owed money to drug dealers. At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Donnelly, from Oakcourt Lawn, Palmerstown, Dublin, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to a man at a house in Palmerstown on July 29, 2013. He also pleaded guilty
to false imprisonment of a taxi driver and unlawful seizure of a car at Tubber Lane, Lucan, on August 21, 2013. Donnelly has 26 previous convictions. Judge Desmond Hogan described Donnelly and another man as “bullyboys” who went to the home of the father of a man they claimed owed money to drug dealers. He suspended four years of a six-year prison term on condition Donnelly keep the peace for that period and engage with a drugs treatment programme.
Detective Garda Padraig Jennings told Garret Baker BL, prosecuting, that Donnelly and a second person went to the home of a man in Palmerstown and told him his son owed money to an individual who had just come out of prison. The man told the pair no money was owed. Donnelly told the man two grenades would be put in his house before punching him in the face. Gardai responding to a call at the house arrested Donnelly as he and his
Wayne Donnelly (28) was jailed for attack. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland
co-accused tried to flee. Garda Caroline Flynn told Mr Baker that the following month a taxi driver was stopped at Palmerstown in the early hours of the morning and begged by an individual to take him to Celbridge. When he agreed the individual called out and
two other men got into the taxi. The taxi driver protested but was told the men were all going to the same place to collect horse feed. One of the men remarked: “This is a nice car, we will take the car.” All three men then punched and kicked him
to the head and body. The taxi driver told them the taxi had a tracking advice but they said they did not care. Gardai found the man’s car burnt out in a ditch and came across three men, including Donnelly, who had blood stains on their clothes.
12 March 2015 LUCAN Gazette 7
8 LUCAN GAZETTE 12 March 2015
C O M M E R C I A L F E AT U R E
EDUCATION Learn all about how one Lucan school is ready
Paddy Lavelle, chief executive, DDLETB
Children learning in a digital classroom at Scoil Oscair CNS
KNOWLEDGE: THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY AND TEACHING PREPARES PUPILS FOR THE FUTURE
An iPad a day ... Smart Learning at Scoil Oscair CNS MOVE over Dublin’s Silicon Docks, Lucan can be proud of its own technological prowess where local primary school Scoil Oscair CNS is leading the Smart School revolution. The Community National School at Tor an Rí Walk, Balgaddy Road, has received a lot of positive attention recently for many reasons including its e-learning techniques and uniquely, an iPad to pupil ratio of 1:1. Principal Nichola Spokes explains; “The school still applies fundamental learning methods around the ‘Three Rs’ of Reading, Writing and Arithmetic. Augmenting this, our e-learning platform provides pupils with the opportunity to
foster individual techniques and allows them space for personal independence in their own learning.” Scoil Oscair has taken e-learning to a new level where a pupil’s progress can be supported and monitored by teachers and parents alike throughout the school year. This helps children to gain maximum benefit from the educational curriculum in the school, learning new skills and enjoying school life in the process. Scoil Oscair was also recently featured in the Sunday Business Post for its innovative approach. So what does this smart school look like for its community of parents and children?
A School for our Modern Age Imagine a scenario where parents can remotely check-in on their children’s schoolwork or they can follow their child’s class through web and social media as they work collaboratively on classwork. And there’s more coming! Already the children of Scoil Oscair (4, 5 and 6 year olds) are doing basic programming, coding and engaging in critical thinking around concepts involving engineering, electronics and construction. The focus here is to develop their early skills in logical thinking. Additionally, parents too are participating in coding classes once a month. It’s not always
taught by the class teacher, but often by their own children who have developed new skills essential to a digital future. Principal Nichola Spokes explains, “The role of the teacher is to guide, question, filter information and provide our children with opportunities to enhance their learning and develop their creativity. This prepares them for life and living in the future.” “Maintaining close links with parents, in partnership with the school, provides our children with a brilliant platform for learning.” Having already achieved recognition as a Digital School of Distinction, Scoil Oscair also recently received an invite from tech icon
Apple to apply for recognition as one of their global distinguished Apple schools. T his reflects how the school has seamlessly integrated technology with the best traditional methods of teaching and learning in the school.
Delivering Educational Excellence for Your Child Scoil Oscair is one of a new breed of progressive and technologically advanced State funded Community National Schools where the complete focus is on delivering a curriculum of excellence. Under the patron body of Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education Training Board (DDLETB), Scoil Oscair
Community National School has the dedicated resources of an IT support team. This allows the principal to fulfil her duties, leading the school community and ensuring that there is excellent teaching and learning taking place on an ongoing basis throughout the school.”
tered with parents to ensure that all children reach their fullest potential. The result is a body of children who are exceeding national expectations in literacy and numeracy at infant level. It’s wonderful to see our children progressing so well and enjoying it so much.”
“High standard of literacy and numeracy” “The added benefit of IT support and administrative services from the ETB allows for a core focus on education and I think this is best reflected in the high standard of literacy and numeracy that we have among our children,” says Nichola Spokes. “Close links are fos-
“Integration, Inclusion, Innovation” “While the ‘3Rs’ will always be a staple of our approach, it’s also the three I’s of Integration, Inclusion and Innovation that make our community national schools an example of all that’s best in Smart School education.” “The 3 I’s stand for Integration within our community, Inclusion of
12 March 2015 LUCAN Gazette 9
C o m m e r c i a l F e at u r e
for tomorrow, and is helping pupils maximise their potential
Pupils mapping with iPads at Scoil Oscair CNS
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‘It’s wonderful to see our children progressing so well and enjoying it so much’
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Nichola Spokes, Principal (above), Scoil Oscair CNS
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a diverse school population acknowledging all faiths and none, and Innovation - taking world-class teaching methods and using modern tools to enhance learning.” Our message is simple, says Spokes, “We simply want every child to be the very best they can be.”
Positive Impact of CNS Recognised As the first State-funded, multi-denominational primary schools, CNS schools provide an educational environment where the holistic development of the child is paramount. The school provides high quality primary education and personal life skills development for children of all beliefs. It offers the full National Primary School Curriculum specified by the Department of Education & Skills and is patroned by Dublin & Dun Laoghaire Education Training Board (DDLETB). Scoil Oscair Community National School (CNS) is one of nine such schools, the first of which opened in 2007
in Clonsilla, Dublin 15. More CNS schools are coming on stream with two new schools opened this year and the first outside of Dublin opening in Cork. These schools are also unique in offering a multi-faith programme called ‘Goodness Me! Goodness You! The ‘GMYG’ programme fosters an overall awareness of multi-denominational society where mutual respect for beliefs is important in the entire education process. Paddy Lavelle, CEO of Dublin and Dun Laoghaire ETB explains, “The CNS model is an inclusive and innovative approach to learning which allows teachers to focus on three key areas excellence in Education, Community and Celebration of Diversity.” “One of the key aspects of the CNS schools is that they empower principals and teachers to concentrate solely on education while the ETB provides the administrative and service supports. This works really well in the interests of the children.” “We believe we have a model that is changing
the primary school landscape in Ireland. We’re focussed on educational excellence and clearly, where IT in education is an essential component of any learning platform or service, Scoil Oscair and other Community National Schools are excelling in this requirement.” Scoil Oscair CNS Lucan is the fif th Community National School to be opened under the patronage of the DDLETB, along with: Scoil Aoife, Tallaght, Dublin22 Scoil Niamh CNS, Citywest, D24 Scoil Ghráinne CNS, Clonee, D15 Scoil Choilm, Porterstown, D15 Scoil Chormaic CNS, Balbriggan. Three further Community National Schools have been opened in Pipers Hill, Naas, Ard Rí, Navan and Mallow CNS in Cork.
iPads and ‘Bee-Bots’ lead the way Scoil Oscair CNS has a serious IT enthusiast and educational technol-
Pupils learning with “Bee-Bots” at the school
ogy expert as Principal. Nichola Spokes recently completed postgraduate study in e-learning. She was also recently asked to present at the annual National Computer in Education Society of Ireland (CESI) 2015 conference. As well as iPads, the school uses small, programmable motorised robots shaped like toy bees with touch buttons on their backs. These ‘Bee Bots’ help the children’s development of oral language, Phonics (sound based reading), maths, mapping and many other aspects of the curriculum. Using these clever gadgets, the teacher engages the children in hands-on learning to solve problems and learn
new things. Nichola recently conducted a study of how these Bee Bots are used and their impacts for teachers and pupils. The study showed a remarkable increase in oral language skills, critical thinking and problem solving skills over seven weeks. Realising these benefits, the Bee Bot device is now being integrated throughout the maths and oral language curriculum in the school. Nichola Spokes
explains, “The device provides us with a platform for developing the children’s oral and mathematical skills and they are also equipped with coding and programming language at the same time. They are absorbed in the learning process when using the motorised Bee-Bot which is also really enjoyable to work with.” “During the study, the children’s learning was enhanced using the BeeBot application on iPads. This helped to stretch
Scoil Oscair Community National School is now enrolling for September 2015. Please download an enrolment form from www.scoiloscaircns.ie or contact 01 457 0432.
and challenge the skills they had already learned using the Bee-Bot. “Many progressed onto programming and coding apps when they had completed their BeeBot application. “The result is 5 and 6 year olds now coding using Scratch – coding programme designed for 3rd class children onwards. Our children are clearly achieving to their full potential. It’s great to see them learning these necessary skills and they enjoy it immensely.”
10 LUCAN Gazette 12 March 2015
St Patrick’s Day
dublin celebrations: four-day extravaganza
Festival promises an abundance of events Rustle out the aul green, white and orange attire and join Dublin in its celebration of Ireland’s national day this March 17 with an abundance of events set to take place across the capital. Once again, the city has high hopes for St Patrick’s Day with festival organisers making it a four-day extravaganza from March 14 to 17. The I Love My City Cultural Programme was unveiled this week with 18 events and hap-
penings taking place in some of Dublin’s most beautiful, historic and often hidden venues and spaces. Events feature both established and emerging artists, from a variety of disciplines including literature, music, film, spoken-word, photography, design, visual art and more. Highlights of this year’s programme include the Ultimate Sunday in Belvedere House when I Love My City brings the
Irish actor Colm Meaney will take part in a Q&A in Dublin’s Rotunda Hospital
Sunday papers to life through talks, interviews, live music, comedy, games, films and more. Bia Beatha at the Guinness Storehouse offers a unique dining experience, celebrating Irish cuisine and culture in a setting filled with old world charm. A special screening of The Snapper plus Q&A with acclaimed Irish actor Colm Meaney will take place in the Pillar Room in Dublin’s Rotunda Hospital. Children are catered for with Mad Myths at the Royal Hibernian Academy where children are invited to join a playful, interactive session of stories and songs to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. But the highlight is of course the St Patrick’s Day parade led by Dubliner Brendan O’Carroll with its theme of Celebrate Now on March 17. This parade will transform the city with fantastical creations and thrilling performances that are inspired by the present. There is also a funfair, an Irish boat race, street theatre and more taking place.
Events are either free ticketed or paid ticketed. For further details on the St Patrick’s Day Festival and booking details see www.stpatricksfestival.ie Lucan Lucan will be also donning the national colours this St Patrick’s Day for their 25th annual parade. This year 33 local groups will be marching, amidst an expected 10,000 onlookers. Organised and run by local volunteers and South Dublin County Council, the parade this year will start at Tesco, Lucan at 3.00pm and will finish in Lucan Village, where a number of local performances will take place. Clondalkin A fter a long campaign, the Clondalkin St Patrick’s Day parade is back and will be held in Corkagh Park on March 17. The parade, which will be the first of its kind in over 10 years, will take place from 2pm to 4pm at Corkagh Park and all local organisations and
groups are welcome to take part. There will be live music and performances which will showcase some of the great groups and organisations that Clondalkin has to offer. Fair Trade are also going to take part and local school children are going to dress up as bananas and other Fairtrade items to help showcase Clondalkin as an official fair-trade town.
In the greeen: Comedian Brendan O’Carroll is this year’s
This year’s main parade promises plenty of colourful characters
12 March 2015 LUCAN Gazette 11
St Patrick’s Day
Grand Marshal of the St Patrick’s Festival Parade. Picture: Robbie Reynolds Photography
A funfair, a boat race and street theatre will be highlights of the event
12 Gazette 12 March 2014
gazetteGALLERY
Ellen Keane and Aisling Byrne
Claire Hogan, Colin Mulcahy and Aisling Cunningham at the Irish premiere screening of Will Smith’s latest film, Focus, at Cineworld. Pictures: Brian Mcevoy
dark romcom: focus on wily will Smith, THE con artist
All eyes on screen for Hollywood premiere
Emma Klyne and Lucy O’Shea
Carl Shabaan and Steph Hesnan
Jenny Dixon
Norman Pratt and Darren Kennedy
Barbara Healy and Thomas Korner
12 March 2015 Gazette 13
Gazette
diary P14
dublinlife
Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools
a day in the life: Corrie villain finds skyping his son brightens his day
what’son
‘Angry man’ visits churches between shows laura webb
BEST known for his role as Corrie villain Frank Foster, Andrew Lancel is now making his mark on stage in Twelve Angry Men. For anyone on the road, living in hotels and out of suitcases, there are few typical days. Lancel takes this in his stride as he tours t he UK a nd I rela nd alongside veteran actor Tom Conti. He star ts his day early with a Skype call from his seven-year-old son, Isaac, and his wife, Louise. “We have our breakfast together and always have a chat before he goes to school in the morning when I am on tour. “It’s a great way to catch up and after that I would take it easy,
maybe snooze a little or look at the news. I read a lot too, so I might do that,” he said. A day on tour could include interviews with the local press about the show. Then he concentrates on his work with his production company, Quarry Street, before checking out the town where the play is being performed. “I am quite churchy and one of the good things about being on tour is that it’s great to go to different places and visit amazing cathedrals, and different places. “I am a stickler for art galleries so I will try to get one in before heading to the theatre. “There is a lot of energy involved in this play; there are 12 of us, and we all get on really well so we would see each
other out and about, go to the pub and go for dinner together and things.” Getting to theatre an hour before show time, he has a shave. “I have a little routine that I do. “The character speaks in a different accent [New York] and is very physical so I would practise that – a little warm up. “Then I...walk the stage, sometimes for quite a while if it’s a new stage, look at sight lines to get used to it.” He may go to the pub with other cast members afterwards or relax in front of the TV and chat with family. Twelve Angr y Men is at Bord Gais Energy Theatre from March 16 to 21. See www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie for ticket details.
BUSINESS asdfsdaf P27 q&a P16
escape the mayhem 15
a sneak peak behind the scenes: Cool-
Andrew Lancel: “I am a stickler for art galleries so I will try to get one in before heading to the theatre.”
mine Musical Society will be performing a variety show, called That’s Entertainment on March 20 and 21 in Draiocht, Blanchardstown. The show is the society’s first big production of the year and is centred around what goes on in theatres behind the scenes before the curtain goes up. The show is described as a celebration of “the hoofers, the wannabes, the dancers and singers of the backstage musical”. According to organisers, laughter and tears, rehearsals and auditions, callbacks and casting all come together in a fun packed show. The show will feature music from the old Hollywood blockbusters right through to more recent production: “This show will pack lots of surprises and send you home with a spring in your step.” The shows begin at 8pm on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 March. For further information or to book tickets call (01) 8852622 or visit www.draiocht.ie.
Gazette
14 Gazette 12 March 2015
dublinlife
DIARY
Stripped bare: More than 100 animals will go on display at the BodyWorlds: Animals Inside Out exhibition at the Ambassador this month. Pictures: Animal Inside Out
Inner animal life on view MORE than100 animal specimens stripped of their outer hides or skins, will be on display at the Ambassador in the Bodyworlds: Animals Inside Out exhibition from March 12 to April 12. Exhibition organiser Dr Angelina Whalley spoke to The Gazette about the exhibition, which uses the preservative techniques of plastination invented by her husband, Gunther von Hagen. She said: “My husband is the inventor of the technology in 1977 and has devoted his entire career to developing it to its state-of-theart form today.
“It was primarily to be used to help teach anatomy at the universities…it was by chance we became aware there was great interest from the public to learn about the body interior.” She went on to say: “The animals are mostly from zoos, animal parks and a few private people. “The animal exhibit is fantastic, holding a number of really dram a t i c a n d e xc i t i n g specimens like an entire Asian elephant with all the muscles and nerves dissected, and a huge giraffe but also domestic animals like cows and sheep.” Tickets are €14 for
adults and €8 for children at www.ticketmaster.ie
stroll around the bay area and help aware MORE than a 1,000 people are expected to descend on Howth Harbour before walking to Dun Laoghaire Harbour, or vice versa, this St Patrick’s Day for the 10th annual Aware Harbour2Harbour Walk. The walk showcases the beauty of Dublin Bay and its impressive 16.2 mile route offering a great alternative to mark St Patrick’s Day. Solo walkers or groups of family or friends can join in the
walk, which aims to raise about €40,000 for the work of Aware, the national charity providing support, information and education around depression and mental health. Participants are encouraged to raise sponsorship from colleagues, friends and family. Aware relies on events like this for about 92% of its annual funding. Online registration is available now at www. aware.ie
castle hotel chef is a Gold medal success C L O N TA R F C a s t e Hotel has reason to celebrate having been
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‘Participants can opt to walk the 16.2 mile route from Howth to Dun Laoghaire or vice versa on the 10th annual Aware Harbour2Harbour on St Patrick’s Day – experience the beauty of Dublin Bay’
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awarded gold and silver medals at the Catex Awards 2015, Ireland’s largest foodservice event. Ca stle Hotel was among hundreds of the finest hotels and restaurants in Ireland competing in this recent ceremony, held in the RDS, Dublin.
The team was represented by Clontarf Castle’s head chef Gareth Carberry, who entered three competitions and received the highest points in each category, gaining two gold medals and one silver medal. The highly coveted awards included an Irish fish competition, the
Irish lamb competition anda m Mystery Basket Competition. Commenting on their achievement, general manager David Hennessy said: “The Catex Awards are highly regarded and respected within the culinary industry. “To be recognised in this prestigious competition is a wonderful achievement. “It provided external recognition of our culinary success, which is important to all of the hotel team and our loyal customer base. “It also gives Clontarf Castle Hotel an enhanced profile in a competitive market place.”
12 March 2015 GAZETTE 15
DUBLIN STILL GOOD – BUT NOT AS GOOD DUBLIN has dropped nine places in quality of living rankings since 2009, according to the Mercer 2015 Quality of Living survey. But on the bright side, our capital still ranks higher than London! Dublin now sits 34th in the world (down from 25th) while London trails at 40. Dublin outranks every other city in Britian and Ireland and, according to Mercer, “enjoys high standards of quality of living and remains an attractive location for business”.
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Mercer says that some of the reasons for Dublin being ranked in the top 50 for quality of living worldwide include lower levels of air pollution, an excellent choice of consumer goods and the socio-cultural environment.
‘Doran posed for selfies with fans at the Ireland v England rugby game at the Aviva Stadium’
50 SHADES OF SELFIES AS STAR HITS CAPITAL
Jay Duffy, son of Keith, with 50 Shades star Jamie Dornan
THE Number 37 on Dawson Street was the surprising scene for an A-list visit last Monday, March 2, when 50 Shades of Grey star Jamie Dornan was spotted having a tipple. The eagle-eyed Keith Duffy, who was also at
the bar, recognised the Hollywood A-lister and tweeted a photo of the meeting on Twitter. Duffy’s son Jay, who goes to Belevedere College, was with his father and got a selfie with Dornan, who had been
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seen around Dublin over the weekend. He was spotted at the Aviva Stadium for Ireland’s Six Nations Rugby victory against England, where he posed with numerous fans for selfies.
ESCAPE THE MAYHEM: RUNNING HELPS JASON BYRNE
Only way to switch off is get outside and leg it KEITH BELLEW
BETWEEN his chaotic schedule of international tours and shoots for his comedy chat series the Snaptastic Show, Jason Byrne finds very little time for recreation. He says that when he does get a chance for respite he doesn’t like to kick back and relax because his mind is inevitably draw n back to his comedy and career. Because of this he finds exercise is the best method of Escaping the Mayhem. He said: “I do a lot of fitness stuff. “If I need to escape I’ll just run out the door and go for a run. “I’ll do that or I’ll go training. “I’ll do anything from weightlifting, to TRX [Total Body Resistance Exercise which incorporates ropes and
suspension into body weight exercises], Jujitsu, or boxing. As long as I’m on the move, that’s me escaping. “I don’t escape into a book, or by just sitting there. “If I’m sitting down reading a book, which I do as well, it takes me ages because my brain just thinks of standup.” The main reasons he likes running so much as a means of escape is that it can be done almost anywhere, anytime, and if “you push yourself, you really feel the benefit”. “If I’m boxing, or fighting or running it’s almost kind of like an adrenaline drug. “I have been running for ages now, so the shortest run I’d do would be 10km and I’d do that quite lightly. “I was doing vigorous training for the New York City Marathon
Jason Byrne finds very little time for recreation
in November, and that was just crazy training, but I never felt as fit and happy in all my life.” He said that worries about bills and financial difficulties melt away after a run. “If someone comes up to you and says: ‘Here’s a huge electricity bill for €500’, and you think: ‘What am I
going to do?’ What you need to do is put your runners on and go outside and leg it. “If you run and you push yourself a little bit I guarantee you’ll come back and that €500 doesn’t look like anything anymore.” You can catch Jason By r n e ’s S n a p t a s t i c Show each Thursdays at 9pm on TV3.
HELP – GREEN FELLA IS ON THE LOOSE AGAIN AS St Patrick’s Day approaches, the leprechaun at the National Wax Museum PLUS has run off again, and the museum is seeking
your help to find him! A hunt got under way on Saturday, March 7, and continues until St Patrick’s Day. All visitors are tasked with finding the little rascal by following a number of clues. The first clue has been left at reception, and from
GAZETTE
FEATURE
there guests must search for more clues, leaving no stone unturned until the leprechaun is found. Those searching are advised to enlist the help of resident Irish heroes in the museum, such as Michael Collins or St Patrick himself. Those who find him are asked to upload a photo to the wax museum Facebook page or Tweet to #LeprechaunLost. Those who do will be entered for a chance to win a wax museum T-shirt, a wax hands vo u c h e r, a n d o t h e r merchandise. For more information visit www. waxmuseumplus.ie.
Gazette
16 Gazette 12 March 2015
dublinlife
Q&A
business
Airbnb expansion is ‘very exciting’ COMMUNITY-driven hospitality company Airbnb, recently announced that it has started hiring for 200 new positions at its Dublin Dockland hub. These new positions are for roles in customer experience, human resources, finance, trust and safety, and IT. ICT Ireland, the tech-
nology sector representative body, said the move highlighted Ireland’s growing attractiveness for tech firms. T he company has also confirmed a lease for a planned 40,000 sq ft office space at an old warehouse on Hanover Quay. Over the next 14
months, the warehouse will be restored and modernised. Aisling Hassell, global head of customer experience and head of Airbnb in Ireland, said: “It’s been almost one year since we officially opened our Dublin office and we have been really pleased with our
progress so far in terms of talent and growth. “Our Dublin operation is a core part of the company and we are very excited to be in a position to build on our current success.” Airbnb is an online service allowing people to rent their homes for short periods.
awards: reward good karen Gardiner, ground espresso bars corporate behaviour
Expert knowledge helps Firms get coffee chain to be strong chance to KAREN Gardiner has a background in food science and a Master’s degree in nutrition. Along with husband and cofounder Darren Gardiner, she has recently opened a Ground Expresson Bar in Next, Westend Business Park, Blanchardstown, which employs 14 people. It is the latest addition to the chain of 14 outlets on the island of Ire-
land. Maintaining her passion to grow the coffee bars while staying true to the company’s ethical approach, she feels she is enjoying successes following years of hard work and dedication. She intends to remain a force to be reckoned with through the expansion of Ground Espresso Bars across Ireland and Northern Ireland.
How long have you been in business?
the recession, we now operate with an even more heightened sense that the climate in which we operate can change suddenly.
Ground Espresso Bars has been open for 14 years, with our first location opening in 2001 in Coleraine.
What makes your business successful?
I’m my own worst critic. I am constantly examining our business and the wider industry, remaining mindful that we work in an alwayschanging industry with evolving customer needs, and there is always room for improvement of our services and offerings.
What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?
We offer a high quality of coffee and customer service while keeping a local, family friendly level of service uniquely tailored to each customer’s needs.
How has the recession affected your business?
We used the recession as a growing experience and feel it had a positive effect on Ground Espresso Bars. It forced us to take stock and challenged us to re-evaluate our systems. We were able to prepare for any negative downturn approaching us, enabling us to protect the business and the staff that rely on us as well.
What have you changed about your business to combat the effects of the recession?
As with any business that survived
What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business?
Most laws are there for a reason. To be honest I think that although sometimes they provide a challenge, guidelines and laws are put in place to help us to stay informed, organised and ethical in the business world – something we take very seriously.
What is your ambition for the business?
We aspire to be the largest coffee bar chain in Northern Ireland and Ireland, achieving a local reputation in all areas of offering a high standard of coffee and customer service to all our fantastic customers.
What is your favourite thing about doing business in your local area?
As our business expands we are really learning that no two customers are the same, and that makes every day different. Ireland has a rich tapestry of kind souls and colourful characters!
What is the best piece of business advice you ever received?
If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always had!
show how they help in society CHAMBERS Ireland has announced that the application process for the 2015 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Awards is now open. The awards recognise the work being done by companies of all sizes to improve the lives of their employees, the local community and the environment. The competition offers the business community a chance to promote their efforts in corporate social responsibility and to gain recognition for best practice. The chair of the awards judging panel, John Cunningham, said: “Having chaired the judging panel for a number of years, I continue to be surprised by the exceptional ways that businesses are embracing CSR.
“Businesses in Ireland are unique in their unwavering commitment to running their businesses in a responsible and sustainable manner. “These awards are an opportunity to recognise this hard work and dedication and to highlight best practice so that others can follow in their footsteps.” Aw a r d c a t e g o r i e s include excellence in the environment, in the community (charity, volunteering and a community programme) , in the workplace, the marketplace, as well as international CSR, CSR communication, best SME [small to medium sized enterprises] and the overall Outstanding Achievement in CSR Award. Now in their 12th year, this year’s awards were launched in Dublin Castle.
Tina Roche, chief executive, Business in the Community Ireland, and Mike Jones, business development director, BAM Group Ireland at the launch of the 2015 Corporate Social Responsibility Awards
The awards are run in association with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government, partnered by Business in the Community Ireland and sponsored by construction company, BAM Group Ireland. Tina Roche, Business in the Community Ireland chief executive, said: “The awards continue to go from strength to strength and each year we see how companies are enhancing and improving their sustainability strategies and embedding corporate responsibility at the heart of their business. Businesses are increas-
ingly committed to the belief that customers, employees, investors and regulators place a high premium on trust, and that ethics and good governance are key in earning it. “By adopting this embedded and sustained approach to corporate responsibility, companies are yielding the noticeable advantages it can have on the bottom line. These awards champion this practice, which is integral to Ireland’s business reputation.” The closing date for nominations is April 21. For more information or to apply, visit www. csrawards.ie
12 March 2015 Gazette 17
travel P19
OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish and essential across the city
arts P25
Gazette
cinema P18
Pets help mighty max find his new home
Anton and Vladimir Jablokov will stage a unique concert at the National Concert Hall this April, drawing on and complementing each other’s skills
classical music: slovakian brothers prepare to play at the nch
Violinists should take a bow
Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
HAVING grown up with a Russian violinist/conductor as a father, it seemed inevitable that fate had musical plans for Vladimir and Anton Jablokov. Playing since the age of five, Vladimir left the Conservatoire in Bratislava in his native Slovakia and moved to Dublin just over a decade ago. Now Vladimir has joined forces with his younger brother, Anton, who is also a classical violinist, to put on a unique concert of collaboration and duets at the National Concert Hall this April. The Gazette spoke to Vladimir about his career, to date. He said: “I came to Ireland about 11 years ago, having basically rebelled against my classical music studies for violin.
“I had got into my teenage years, and thought it [his studies] wasn’t cool enough and didn’t think it was exactly what I wanted to do with my life. I had been looking at musicians who’d studied at the conservatory of music and university and ended up just playing in an orchestra, and that wasn’t for me. “Anton, however, continued his studies and is finishing his masters this year. He took it much more seriously and did two years’ study in Switzerland, and another two in Germany. He travels from one professor to another, because he goes for the real ‘star’ professors who only use Stradivarius violins, and so on. “Anton really likes to improvise as well, and he practised a lot with me as he’s been coming here for about nine years for gigs, playing second violin.
“A really good player, though, gets bored playing second violin, and he’d try to do his little tricks and go further with it. From him trying to make it more interesting, we came up with new arrangements. From that, we came up with a new show, and it’s really exciting for me to have Anton on the stage now as an equal. He now has much more freedom and can show off,” said Vladimir. Vladimir and Anton have played together for 15 years; first as part of a family band of eight that travelled around central Europe, and then doing concerts in Ireland. His parents were full-time violinists all their lives and most of his siblings play violin, piano and cello. Like Vladimir, another younger brother rebelled and is now an athlete. Vladimir said: “I came for a visit and
to see something new. At that age, you try to prove to your parents that they are not always right.” So, off he went to Dublin, intending to stay for three months. He worked in cafes for a while but didn’t have enough money to live on. Then he noticed musicians playing on Grafton Street and decided to give it a go himself to make money. This led to his forming a band and building a reputation on the streets, and finally making it all the way to the National Concert Hall this Easter Saturday, April 4, as part of a nationwide tour. Tickets for the NCH event, priced €25, are available now from www.nch.ie. The Jablokovs have now released an album, Two Brothers, on Vladimir’s Rubyworks label, through Warner Brothers.
The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is Max, a four-year-old Labrador cross. Max is a stunning dog, who is in the prime of his life and just loves to get out and get active. He loves to play ball games, swimming, chasing birds – you name it! He can be nervous around new people, so any potential adopters would need to come and visit Max multiple times so he could get to know them. He wouldn’t like a house with children, as they are a bit too much for him, and he could potentially go to a home with another dog (Max likes the ladies!) If you think you could give lovely, energetic Max a loving home then please contact Dogs Trust on 01-8791000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50 and would love to show you around. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie
Gazette
18 Gazette 12 March 2015
OUT&ABOUT
CINEMA
it follows: an impressive (and creepy) horror
Trying to stay one step ahead of fate ALL good horror tales can tap into some primal fear within us. One of the earliest and most disturbing examples I can remember – enhanced, of course, by the fact that I was far too young to be watching it – comes from the movie, Child’s Play, which sees a possessed doll, Chucky, come alive to go on a murderous rampage. At one point in the film, the boy who owned the doll is trapped in a police cell, and from the
Dave phillips
window, he can see a long stairwell leading up the side of the building where, clambering step by step, Chucky is making a slow but inevitable ascent towards the boy. This is the kind of expertly drawn out ten-
sion that lies at the heart of It Follows, writer and director David Robert Mitchell’s second film and his first foray into horror The film focuses on a small group of teenagers living in Detroit. As the eldest of the group, Jay (Maika Monroe) is a little ahead of the rest of the teens, she leaves them playing cards on the porch while she goes out on dates with her new boyfriend, Hugh. Not much seems awry
until Jay eventually spends the night with Hugh, after which he tells her he has passed something on to her. Something will follow her, he explains – he doesn’t know what it is, but it may take on different forms, mimicking people that are close to her – but it will follow ceaselessly, walking steadfastly toward her no matter where she goes. If Jay lets it get close enough to touch her, the results will be disastrous. She can pass the curse on by sleeping with someone else, but if they are killed, it passes back on down the line, pursuing whoever had it last. Not only has Mitchell conceived of the most terrifying STI imaginable, but he has also created a seemingly unique horror device that works incredibly effectively.
Seminal The effectiveness is of course connected to Mitchell’s story and style. Drawing on the seminal works of John Carpenter and Wes Craven, Mitchell’s film effectively captures that middleAmerican suburbia: all wood-panelled houses and neatly cut grass. The fact that the monster moves at a walking pace here is a genius stroke – it allows plenty of time for the characters to get away and develop. A car ride for an hour will buy several hours of respite. There’s a subtle tenderness between the group of friends, with some burgeoning romantic feelings thrown in for good measure, and granting
In It Follows, a cursed teen (Maika Monroe) attempts to stay one step ahead of a stalking doom, which is pursuing her relentlessly at a walking pace
the time to see all this emerge on screen allows the audience care about and bond with the characters – which makes it all the more terrifying at the times when “it” eventually catches up. Part full-blown horror, part horrific reflection on how our childhood must
end when we adopt the mantle of adulthood, It Follows is a stylish, very well executed – and at times, terrifying – affair that showcases ver y strong direction, coupled with an equally strong cast. It joins last year’s The Babadook as another
refreshing example that mainstream horror can offer much more than just loud shocks (though it has a couple of those) – but it can give you a story and characters that will stay with you when the nightmares eventually subside. Verdict: 8/10
12 March 2015 Gazette 19
Gazette
TRAVEL carlingford: ghan house is a grand getaway
A stately retreat with a welcome homely feel mimi murray
GHAN House in Carlingford is the latest addition to Ireland’s Blue Book and is one of the smaller, more homely establishments on the list of great stately homes. A group of us stayed there to mark a special birthday recently. The house is an 18th century Georgian structure, built in 1727 by William Stannus – a politician from Dublin who was of Scottish descent.
In the main house, there are four rooms, and eight further bedrooms in a garden annex. Rooms are decorated in muted, traditional fabrics and colours, but are more state-of-the-art than their setting, with iPod docking stations. Carlingford reminds me of Kinsale – not only because of its picturesque streets and its focus on seafood in many eateries around the town, but also the influx of stag and hen parties to the area on
weekends. Following a brisk stroll around the town, we promptly made our way back to the warmth of the house and its open fires. It was early February, and everyone was in need of a hot toddy or something similar. Dinner is served in a small dining room, mostly decked out for couples and a group of raucous women who were determined to have fun. Starters included soft shell crab, scallops with
chorizo and lightly cured Irish salmon pastrami with wasabi creme fraiche and beetroot meringue. Mains include such fare as oven-baked fillet of cod marinated in mild Indian spices with curried yoghurt, crispy shredded duck with saffron and coconut broth, rice noodles and vegetables Julienne, sirloin of Cooley beef and 12 hourbraised beef cheek with carrot and cumin puree, chestnut mushrooms and rosemary jus.
Built in 1727, Ghan House offers an idyllic respite from the hustle and bustle of Dublin life, yet is conveniently located just an hour away from the capital
This is simple enough home cooking with nothing too theatrical going on, but everything was tasty and staff were friendly, and good with the wine recommendations. There is a lovely oldworld bar, and another drawing room with an
open fire where you can kick back after dinner. We made the decision to venture out and were lucky to catch a surprisingly good band in a packed local bar. The Guinness is good, and the company good, as they say, and we qui-
etly snuck in “home” at around 1am ... Next morning, and lots of tea and an Ulster fry sent us on our way back to Dublin, only an hour away. For further information on Ghan House, see www.ghanhouse.com.
Gazette
20 Gazette 12 March 2015
OUT&ABOUT Catriona Hanly Vintage pink short sleeve top €170, Salmon bow detail skirt with rose floral applique €265
Fiona Kerr Silver rectangle earrings €80
Yvonne Ryan Ruby stacking ring sterling silver and gold €395
Stonechat Leafdrop earrings €90
Juvi Jewellery Rose quartz and vermeil earrings €89 Jill Graham Gold leaf stud earrings €79
Stonechat Blueberry drop earrings €175
Fee G Quilted crop jacket €209.95, Quilted dress €239.95 (Outfit available in Kilkenny Shop) Fiona Kerr Silver gold-flecked bracelet €225
Stonechat Chocolate diamond Anvers ring €3,050
Irish for design Spring laura webb
WITH St Patrick’s Day just around the corner, Gazette Style is feeling all patriotic – no, it’s not going to be a page full of green, white and orange; instead, we are focusing on Irish design. Irish designers are fast making a name for themselves at home and abroad and why shouldn’t they – with their quality and unique designing, it’s easy to see how Irish designs stand out from the rest. So, this week, we are saluting Irish designers ...
Catriona Hanly Blue and candy pink paisley top €295, Blue bow detail skirt with zip €260
12 March 2015 Gazette 21
Gazette
STYLE
Blush Make-up HD brow kit €24.95
Cocoa Brown 1 Hour Tan €7.99
Anneco Mineral Foundation €25.50
You’ll love this range of Irish-made natural make-up products laura webb
CONTINUING on with our We Love Irish theme, beauty and skincare products from the great green isle are making a mark for themselves both at home and abroad. Anneco Natural Make-Up is Irish-made mineral makeup which has a great collection of long-lasting every-day makeup that is natural, ethical and kind to skin. Made from 100% pure mineral ingredients, their line includes loose powder foundation, concealers, blusher and bronzers, primer and mineral veil, which are all among the extensive high-quality Anneco makeup collection, developed in Ireland. Tan lovers everywhere are more than familiar with Cocoa Brown 1 Hour Tan by Marissa Carter, and its many other tanning products that have come down the line. Now, Cocoa Brown is going Stateside, having recently launched its brand in the US after Ricky’s NYC scooped it up for its 30 stores. For further information, see www.cocoabrown.ie. Blush Make-up and Nails was founded by award-winning make-up artist Nicola Walsh. Based in Clonmel, Co Tipperary, this range has everything needed for the perfect make-up look, from prep to finish. Products include HD Brow Compact, foundation, blusher and bronzer, mascara, lipstick and concealer. For further information, see www.blush.ie. Sligo brand VOYA is a family business built on seaweed which is harvested from the area and also supplies their own seaweed baths in the town. It grew from a very successful seaweed baths business in Strandhill, Co Sligo, on the wild Atlantic coast of Ireland, set up by Neil Walton. Products include sea-
weed soaps, essence oil, body oil and body buff. Blank Canvas Cosmetics is an online cosmetic brand founded in 2011 that is based in Ireland, bringing quality beauty products at an affordable price. Products include eyeliners, makeup brushes, airbrush blender sponges, as well as face and eye palettes. For further information, see www. blankcanvascosmetics.com. Kinvara Skincare, suitable for men and women, is based in Co Galway and uses plant-packed ingredients (93% from an edible food source) to produce really effective products that can help transform people’s skin. Products include cleansing products such as its cleansing face oil and moisturisers, and serums such as its Active Rosehip Day Cream and Rosehip Face Serum. Kinvara Skincare is available in more than 80 stockists across the country, and also online at www.kinvaraskincare. com. The Handmade Soap Company was founded in 2010 by Donagh Quigley and Gemma McGowan. This brand come a long way from being made in their cottage kitchen and is now found anywhere from Blarney Castle to Brazil. Products include bath salts, soaps, aftershave creams, body lotion and hand cream. For further information, see www. thehandmadesoapcompany.ie. So, when thinking about beauty and skincare products, why not try to think Irish and buy Irish? You might be surprised by the results!
Blush Make-up HD brow kit €24.95
Kinvara Skincare Absolute cleansing oil (100ml) €20; Rosehip face serum (30ml) €28; Rosehip day creme (60ml) €24
The Handmade Soap Company Witch hazel soap €6.95
22 Gazette 12 March 2015
C o m m e r c i a l F e at u r e
INTERIORS
HABITAT
ARGOS
FOR ARGOS
LAURA ASHLEY
NEXT
ame photo fr Enamel €33
Malmo seven-light pendant €137
5 x butterfly plaques €27
Franco wooden desk lamp €61
Polka dot cushio
n €16.79
side Blossom 5 table € 9.50 irror tray €34 Juliette heart m
paz cushion €75
to Francesca pale
shion €16
€34
Topsy elephant cu
table lamp
Butterfly garden trinket jar €27
Teal capsule
n €16.79
Geo knit th
row €48
Ashdown cushio
Nest of t
hree sid
e table
s €93.
50
Vixen knitted cush
Wing it to
Labrador tapestry
ion €16.79
Westend
SPRUCE up your house this spring by updating rooms with key trends and pieces coming through this spring/ summer season. Leave the dullness of winter behind and brighten up a room with vibrant colours, pale spring blues, geometric prints, metallics and coppers. Whether it’s a new fixture in the room, a colourful cushion or a unique
lamp, remodelling the home doesn’t have to break the bank. Here to help you update your room is Westend Shopping Park in Blanchardstown with its variety of best-loved lifestyle retailers such as Argos, Next, Laura Ashley and more. Exciting news from Westend Shopping Park is that Habitat is returning, with its collection for Argos
cushion €63
online and in-store from July. In advance of the range being launched in the Argos autumn/winter 2015 catalogue this coming July, products can be reserved online for free with instant pick-up from stores throughout the country. This week, The Gazette showcases just some of the many items available to buy from the many stores across Westend Shopping Park.
12 March 2015 GAZETTE 23
FOOD&DRINK
GAZETTE
OUT&ABOUT
RECIPECORNER Berry nice souffles THIS week, we have a delicious recipe for Raspberry Souffles with Vanilla Ice Cream (to serve four), courtesy of top chef Neven Maguire. Ingredients 400g (14oz) raspberries, plus extra to decorate 100g (4oz) caster sugar, plus extra to dust 1 vanilla pod, split in half and seeds scraped out 2 tbsp creme de cassis 1 tsp cornflour mixed with 1 tsp water 4 egg whites unsalted butter, to grease icing sugar, to dust vanilla ice cream, to serve
Le Spice
Indian restaurant
Main Street, Dundrum Set off Dundrum’s Main Street, Le Spice offers a comfortable setting to concentrate on its great range of
The Picky Eater OVER in Dundrum’s village centre, Le Spice Indian restaurant is the new kid on the block, and local fans of authentic Indian gourmet cuisine will be hoping it’s there to stay. Tucked away down the side lane beside AIB, this snug little venue provides an authentic Indian experience. Upon entering, you will be greeted by the unmistakable sounds of Ravi Shankar picking away on the sitar. This adds to the relaxing ambience of the restaurant, with its elegantly dimmed lights and curious paintings on the wall. After sitting down, we were served with a basket of flat, crispy bread and a dish with three separate chutneys to munch on while looking over the menu. This was followed by a bottle of fruity Spanish red wine from the impressive wine list. The menu offers a selection of high-class,
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Each dish has a series of letters beside it, from ‘m’ for mild, to ‘hhh’ for very hot, so as not to catch customers unawares
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gourmet dishes which are a far cry from the stereotypical onion bhajis and curry. The menu – which boasts duck, king prawns, and lamb, among other dishes – is very refined without being too pretentious to also offer French fries and a kiddies’ menu. Each dish has a series of letters beside it, from ‘m’ for mild, to ‘hhh’ for very hot, so as not to catch customers unawares. There are a variety of tempting starters, and The Picky Eater and companion both decided on the
spiced marinated Murgh Tikka, cooked in a clay oven (€5.45). This was served up in no time and was tastefully presented, liberal and delicious. For mains, I decided on Lamb Rogan Josh (€13.95) with egg-fried rice, while my companion chose Majadar Jhinga (€16.95), which is jumbo prawns cooked with fried onion and capsicum in a medium spicy sauce, a touch of Masalla sauce and coriander with eggfried rice (€3.20). Rice is served in a separate bowl to allow the customer to mix as they see fit. The prawns were almost big enough to rival lobsters, and my companion was very impressed with the sauce. The Rogan Josh did not fail to impress either, and not a scrap was left uneaten. If you’re looking for a quiet, comfortable evening of Indian cuisine, The Picky Eater recommends a visit to Le Spice.
Indian dishes
Two delicious dishes from Le Spice – tandoori jumbo prawns (top) and lamb ragan jush (above)
Conclusion SAY goodbye to predictable Indian fare, as Le Spice (at 9A Main Street, Dundrum, Dublin 14; tel 01 551 9000) serves up a menu with some delicious, well-thought-out dishes that cover all the basics, as well as some excellent gourmet meals, too.
Preparation • Place the raspberries in a wide heavy-based pan with the caster sugar. Mash down with a hand-held masher until they start to release their juices, then add the vanilla seeds and creme de cassis. • Allow to bubble on a high heat for about 10 minutes, stirring regularly, until you have achieved a jam-like consistency. • Pass the raspberry puree through a fine sieve into a bowl and then stir in the cornflour so that it thickens the puree slightly. Leave to cool. • When ready to cook the souffles, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F/gas mark 4). Generously grease 8 x 200ml (7fl oz) ramekins with butter and dust with caster sugar, shaking out any excess. • Whisk the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl until stiff, then fold into the thickened raspberry puree. Use to fill the prepared ramekins and level the tops with a palette knife. • Arrange the souffles on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until well risen and golden brown on top. Dust with icing sugar and arrange on plates with a separate ramekin of vanilla ice cream and a row of raspberries. Serve at once.
Gazette
24 Gazette 12 March 2015
OUT&ABOUT
HEALTH SHORTS Food safety workshop In Ireland it is estimated that about 10% of the population suffer from a food allergy or a food intolerance (including coeliac condition), the effects of which range from mild discomfort to life threatening. About Hygiene Ltd have developed a workshop Putting Diet and Food Safety on the Menu, the one-day workshop is designed to inform the public especially caterers, childcare providers, community and private care settings how easily you can determine the calorie content and put calories on menus. It gives practical guidelines for businesses serving people who may have a food allergy, food intolerance, coeliac condition or who may wish to avoid a particular food for other reasons. All staff working in a business offering food must receive basic food safety training before they start work and at regular intervals thereafter. This workshop may be used as refresher food safety training to increase staff knowledge and awareness. The workshop is on April 25. For more details contact 071 9645111. E-mail: train@ abouthygiene.ie. Website: www. abouthygiene.ie
Reader offer Studio Figura are offering a special price for Gazette readers. Three 60-minute sessions €50 or 12 60-minute sessions €180. Studio Figura concept consists of three steps: 1. Personal lymphatic massage programme using unique highest quality machines - roll shapers. 2. Personal nutrition plan based on a healthy, balanced eating approach, determined by individual body statistics and activity level. 3. Support with unique “in house” diet supplements Go Clean and Go Slim. More information from Inga Captari at 087 065 9185, 8 Cumberland Street, Dun Laoghaire
HEALTH
health: TV presenter on her exciting new business venture
Transform your diet, fitness and wellbeing suzanne sheehy
Are you looking to lose weight, transform your fitness or kick start new habits? You can achieve this and rediscover the joy of exercising outdoors on west Cork’s tranquil Inish Beg Island through Ireland’s premiere bootcamp, Pure Results (sponsored by Ireland’s one-stop adventure shop, Great Outdoors). This is a six-night, sevenday bootcamp, which aims to transform your diet, fitness and wellbeing, all designed with your individual aspirations in mind. No stranger to exercise, and adventure it is of no surprise that this is Kathryn Thomas’s latest venture.
GazetteHealth spoke to the TV presenter about her exciting new business venture which she speaks so passionately about. “It has been an ambition of mine for the last few years. I have been a fan of wellness holidays firstly through No Frontiers when I did the travel show. “When that finished it was the kind of holiday I continued to do myself. A week when you’re on your own meeting a group of like-minded people and it is a really nice way to spend a holiday. “Pure Results bootcamp is all about the personal touch as it caters for all fitness levels – whether you’re a bride to be preparing for your big day, new mums looking to lose the baby
weight, to fitness fanatics searching for a new challenge. Age doesn’t mean a thing. Whether you’re 20 or 60 all are welcome.” A typical day involves a 6am start enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Inish Beg with stretches and light jogging. The weekly diet is wheat free, sugar-free and dairy free with no caffeine or alcohol. There is a mixture of high-intensity circuits with some low impact exercise. But fun is also a part of the week with informal team building such as battle stations, spider’s web, giant slalom. The aim is to “have you moving but you won’t even notice the calories burning”, says Thomas. Thomas has also learned a great deal from previous bootcamp holidays she has attended. And noted that one of the most important things missing was aftercare, which is necessary for continued success. Pure Results bootcamp (limited to 15-20 participants) has a specialised team of personal trainers, life coach, group leader and nutritional therapist guiding and supporting you through both your pre and post-camp care,
Specialised trainers will keep you on your toes and working hard at Pure Results Bootcamp
Kathryn Thomas: “Pure Results Bootcamp are all about the personal touch.”
preparing and motivating you all the way. You will receive a realistic two-week nutrition and exercise programme so you will continue to reach your lifestyle goals. “I don’t want people to just come, pay their money and never hear from us again. At the end of each week, a member of the Pure Results team will check in with you on your progress. So there will be weigh-ins, meal plans, exercise plans the whole lot for two weeks after you leave,” continues Thomas. This is also a great opportunity to experience one of the most picturesque parts of Ireland, according to Thomas, somewhere you can go hill walking, trail
running and have beach workouts. Thomas’s last word is: “There’s no such thing as I can’t, just put a challenge in front of yourself and you will achieve it. “It’s having the right support and believing in yourself that can help you accomplish any challenge you set.” The Pure Results Bootcamps will be r unning April 17 to June 2015. Costs are €1,199 pp (sharing), or €1,399 for single occupancy. Early bird offer of €999 for April 17 – for one week only. For more information you can email: info@pureresultsbootcamp.com or phone: +353 (0) 87 441 7090.
12 March 2015 gazette 25
Gazette
ARTS theatre: reimagining a Midsummer Night’s Dream at the abbey
Hit and miss at times – but ultimately it’s on target Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
IRISH theatre company Pan Pan, famous for its bold exploration of dramatic form which challenges traditional theatre, has not disappointed in its latest production – A Midsummer Night’s Dream – that is currently running in The Abbey Theatre. A Midsummer Night’s Dream is Shakespeare’s fanciful romp about the fairy world’s interference in the love lives of mortals. It is traditionally a play to celebrate spring, love, Queen Elizabeth 1 and – above all – youth. This tradition is utterly turned on its head in this new production, with all the main characters being elderly and their village, a retirement home. Hermia (played by Aine Ni Mhuiri) is the object of the affections of both Lysander (John Kavanagh) and Demetrius (Barry McGovern). Hermia loves Lysander, though her son, Egeus/Peter Quince (David Pearse), takes the parental role by insisting his mother marry Demetrius instead. Demetrius is beloved
Kane’s Grinding Water
Wonderful wooden art Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
THE launch of A Journey, a beautiful new show based on the career of Irish woodturner and artist Emmet Kane, was launched at the National Museum of Ireland in Collins Barracks recently. Curated by Jennifer Goff, the exhibition traces 27 years of the artist’s work in the medium of wood. Kane transforms his medium in most unusual, though always beautiful ways, to question our perceptions of wood and its place in the arts. Such a master is Kane that he can render wood into many magical forms, until some of his pieces take on the apparent qualities of glass and even metal.
-------------------------------------------------------
‘This is a largely successful reinterpretation of Shakespeare and shows that Irish actors and audiences have a huge affinity with The Bard’ --------------------------------------------------------
by Helena (Gina Moxley), though her love is savagely unrequited. They all live together in the nursing home, which is run by Theseus/Oberon (Declan Conlon) and Hippolyta/ Titania (Fiona Bell). This pair double as the king and queen of the fairies, Oberon and Titania, who through the agency of a love potion, become inadvertently responsible for making both Demetrius and Lysander fall in love with Helena instead.
Enjoyable This Abbey production is largely enjoyable and the acting, in the main, is first-rate, which is an absolute prerequisite for making Shakespeare accessible and easily understood in a modern setting. The role of Lysander in particular is very well executed by Kavanagh,
and Moxley does a fine job playing the nonplussed and abused Helena. The fairy world scenes are not nearly as effective as the real-world scenes in the nursing home, which are often hilarious. Great comic use is made of the elderly scenario, with walking sticks doubling for swords and the like. The funniest part of the play is delivered by Peter Quince and his band of merry actors, who attempt to put on a diverting playlet for the fairy king and queen. Pearse (Quince) has strong comedic talent and each time he stepped on the stage, the audience seemed immediately poised for a good belly-laugh. Another of his comedy troupe, Andrew Bennet – who plays Nick Bottom, the unfortunate recipient
With their excellent turns, Lysander (John Kavanagh) and Hermia (Aine Ni Mhuiri) add to what is already a highly accomplished cast
of an ass’s head – is very engaging and full of fun in the part. Pan Pan always throws in something unexpected in its productions and is very tuned into the zeitgeist of modern life. A wonderful example of this was a physical fight between Hermia and Helena. The two repeated the same aggressive movements over and over, creating the image of a very funny “living gif” animation.
Successful All told, though a bit hit and miss at times, this is a successful reinterpretation of Shakespeare
Hermia and Lysander with Demetrius (Barry McGovern) and Helena (Gina Moxley)
and shows, above all, that Irish actors and audiences have a huge affinity with The Bard. Famous for the line: The course of true love never did run smooth, the play, though largely a fantastic romp, really does explore how arbitrary and often fickle love can be. A Midsummer Night’s
Dream runs at The Abbey until March 28 and tickets, available from the Abbey box office at www. abbeytheatre.ie, range from €13 to €40. T he play lasts for around two and a half hours, and begins at 7.30pm, from Monday to Saturday, with matinees at 2pm on Wednesday and Saturday.
Remarkable The exhibition explores Kane’s remarkable journey of development as a self-taught artist and woodturner from 1988 through to the present day, and features a huge array of his work, from functional vessels and bowls, wall hangings, artistic pieces (both large and small) and recent small-scale works. A Journey runs at the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks until June 14.
26 lucan gazette 12 March 2015
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28 Gazette 12 March 2015
SPORT
FastSport National’s Finn Lynch wins isa young sailor: NATIONAL Yacht Club’s Finn Lynch landed the 2014 ISA Young Sailor of the Year at their annual awards ceremony last Friday at the Royal College of Surgeons. During the year, Lynch brought the Under-19 Laser Standard world title back to his home club of National Yacht Club in Dun Laoghaire. Speaking about the award, Lynch offered the following advice to other aspiring young sailors: “If you want to be competitive my advice would be to work harder than everyone else. “Otherwise to just enjoy sailing is very important I think.” Anthony O’Leary won the Sailor of the Year title for his exploits in winning the 2014 Commodore’s Cup along with his consistent pursuit of sailing excellence, claiming the title by a massive margin of 174 points last June.
hockey: south dublin clubs win big in leinster’s division one race
Glory for Hermes and Town sport@dublingazette.com
BOROUGH clubs Hermes and Monkstown both won their respective Leinster Division One leagues last week and are already on the search for more silverware.
On the women’s side Booterstown’s Hermes, a slow start meant that they were scarcely in the pre-competition thoughts for the title but they managed to win a thrilling five-horse race on the final day of the
season with a 2-0 win over Loreto. Aisling Na ughton scored one in each half, the clincher coming two minutes from time, to secure the title and coach Rudi Wortmann said an early season
Monkstown won the men’s Leinster league in comfortable fashion
Hermes star striker Aisling Naughton. Picture: Adrian Boehm
“wake-up call” provided the impetus for their first title since 2011. He admits “preseason wasn’t that good” while their 1-0 loss Pembroke served as a powerful warning of the close-knit battle ahead for a new look panel. Wortmann took on the side for a second spell having won most of the tophies in the game during his first stint almost a decade ago. The Dutchman took on a side that had lost Irish internationals Lisa Jacob to the Irish rugby sevens game with Audrey O’Flynn following that route early in the campaign. With four other squad members moving on, they needed additions
and they came in the form of Naughton – who ended as the league’s top scorer – and Sinead Loughran were late additions who have proven an irresistable force. “Our key players are basically the whole team. I’m not sure if we could have done without any of the players. I know it sounds trite but that is my genuine feeling,” he said of his panel. Now, his side is looking to add more trophies to the league title with, incredibly, another three potentially in the offing. First up is the Jacqui Potter Cup final on St Patrick’s Day against Railway Union – the fourth meeting of the sides this term. The Irish Senior Cup
final follows on March 29 while an Irish Hockey League semi-final against Loreto is also on the horizon for the Booterstown club. For Monkstown’s men, their route was much simpler as they ended the campaign with an eight-point advantage over their nearest rivals. They clinched the title ahead of their second last league game – an 8-0 win over Rathgar – as Pembroke, the only side to beat them over the course of the Leinster league, fell to Corinthian 3-2 to gift-wrap the trophy. Town will now be focusing on the Irish Hockey League and trying to retain the title for a third successive year.
Griggs strikes late as Lansdowne down Constitution sport@dublingazette.com
Lansdowne are eight points clear at the top of rugby’s Ulster Bank Division 1A
LEINSTER A scrum half Adam Griggs was sprung from the bench to be Lansdowne’s hero as his 79th minute try earned a 27-20 bonus point win at the expense of Cork Constitution in the Ulster Bank League Division 1A. The disappointment of the defeat lifted slightly for Cork Con when they learned that UCD and Ballynahinch had both lost, meaning that the Leesiders’ losing bonus point was enough to move them back into the top
four. The afternoon had begun brightly for Cork Con as Munster prospect Darren Sweetnam touched down for the second week running. Lansdowne’s patience was tested until Conor McKeon’s neat offload played in hooker Tyrone Moran for an unconverted try in the right corner. An opportunist try by Cork Con out-half Tomas Quinlan restored his side’s five-point advantage, but a late surge from Lansdowne made it 12-10 at the break as Tom Daly’s purpose-
ful break was finished off by his centre partner Tom Farrell and McKeon converted. McKeon and Quinlan swapped penalties early on the resumption before Lansdowne, playing with increased confidence, swept through for their third try - a memorable run on the right wing saw Farrell break free to complete his brace in the 53rd minute. McKeon missed the conversion, though, and with 13 minutes remaining a Lansdowne handling error allowed the speedy Sweetnam to latch on to
the loose ball and race in under the posts. Quinlan’s levelling conversion set up a grandstand finish. However, Lansdowne produced the goods when it mattered most as Griggs ghosted through a minute from the end to score the game’s decisive try and give the headquarters club their 13th win in 16 games. Elsewhere, centre Stephen O’Neill had a day to remember, scoring three of Terenure College’s six tries as they won their Dublin 6W derby with St Mary’s College on a 41-24 scoreline.
12 March 2015 Gazette 29
Gazette
Flying Flynn looking to leap to Olympics Coolmine athlete aiming to break a 27-year wait for an Irish steeplechase Olympian as he plots an ambitious course to Rio following successful spell at the University of Arkansas stephen findlater
DAVID Flynn is plotting a course to become Ireland’s 3,000m steeplechase Olympian in 27 years. It is now 30 years since Brendan Quinn set the national record, one of the longest standing of all Irish athletics records. Quinn was also the last Irish man to qualify for the Games, coming 11th in his semi-final in Seoul in 1988. Despite Ireland having a decorated record in distance running, it is a race that has not really featured to any great degree but Coolmine’s Flynn is ambitious to see this change. “Irish athletes are very tough and can grit out their events,” he told GazetteSport this week. “The steeplechase is an event you need to be tough in.” An accomplished runner at schools, he
impressed enough amid competitive fields with John Coghlan, Michael Mulhare and Craig Murphy to earn a scholarship to university in Colorado before switching to division one college University of Arkansas. While there, he won the Irish Olympic trials in steeplechase in 2012 but missed out on the qualifying standard. Three years on, he is now looking to make another bid with a wealth of knowledge from the American system under his belt. He returned to Ireland in November after an impressive college career, finishing in the top five three times at the hugely competitive Mount Sac races. And he told GazetteSport that the experience will help him immeasurably. “I learned so much there that you wouldn’t realise. You learn a lot
about the little things and so I think I have come back a better, maybe more cautious, athlete. “It’s something unique to America. I coach a few athletes at Clonliffe now in the steeplechase; there’s basic things that some of them don’t know and it’s why the Irish record has stood for years. “The usual thing is to train you like a 5km person but the technique is kind of old school. Something needs to change and there are some – under Chris Jones, who coaches Fionnuala Britton – who are trying to get things to change.” Getting top level experience in the event is tough for Irish-based athletes with high quality fields and fast conditions tough to come by. Indeed, Flynn has recently been in Portugal for a month to lay his base level for the year ahead while all his fastest times have come at high
Coolmine man David Flynn, centre, last week with his Clonliffe club mates following their national inter-club cross country team title
altitude in warm conditions in the US. In Ireland, he has been running 90 miles a week while he helped his club Clonliffe Harriers to the national inter-club team title last week and will run in the Antrim international race next week. All this is to prepare for
think people realise the training that has to go into it. It’s easy to say to someone you run 90 miles a week and they think it takes no time to drive that in their car and you laugh about it. “It’s so different in America. After college, I was potentially going to
ken’sDiary
Cycling bug kicking in for Egan and the Laurels crew Olympic silver medallist and Irish boxing legend Ken Egan is to take part in this year’s Laurels Charity Crew Cycle from Galway to Dublin on April 19. In the run-up to the event, Egan has partnered with Gazette Sport to document his preparation for the big day, and here is his latest report from the road.
--------------------------------------------------------
Irish athletes are very tough and can grit out events. You need to be tough for the steeplechase - David Flynn
--------------------------------------------------------
the track season’s inception in April with the target to run at least three top level steeplechases – along with good 5km and 1,500m times – in the summer to put him in the frame for the Olympics in 2015. Flynn says, though, that while these are the best laid plans, an Olympic campaign is a difficult programme to balance. “It is expensive; if you want to run a fast steeplechase, especially an Olympic qualifying time, you need to have the perfect conditions, running in a nice climate at 7pm. “I ran all my personal bests in California so you can see you need a similar environment. You need a pace-maker and all the splits to be even. So, to get all those things in place, it can be expensive. “In addition, I don’t
turn semi-professional and move to Austin, Texas with a group called Rogue Running but that fell through. That’s when I got into coaching. “Here, there aren’t really groups that would fund things so you are looking to other avenues to help support your travel fees. To go for the Olympics, you need to be training full-time, paying for your gym – I go to yoga twice a week – and you go through shoes pretty much each month.” Given he has only recently returned to Ireland, he has missed some of the funding rounds through the regular channels but Flynn says he is confident, that if he can get a leg up from local sponsors, he can really start making waves in his Olympic pursuit.
THIS week, I decided to leave the 8am start to the professionals and landed down at the Laurels for 9.45am, feeling well rested and ready for what was in store. The word on the street was we were doing 90km and it was a flat journey, music to my ears. The numbers were good again with about 30 bodies in action. I started close to the front and decided to stay there for as long as possible which was my own little mental test. They say you should get to know your bike; I have borrowed mine for this Laurels Charity Cycle but I really have the cycling bug and will definitely invest in a good bike after the event in April. We took off again from Clondalkin to the Pheonix Park which was taken over by some charity run so we had to play second fiddle to the runners which is fair enough. As such, we soldiered on out toward Blanchardstown on up through Maynooth and onto Enfield before doing a full 180 degree at that roundabout before coming back towards Kilcock. There we stopped for a well-earned scone and coffee. From there, we had the back of the journey broken and proceeded back towards home, running down through Celbridge and onto Newcastle. Every time I climb onto my bike, I know it ain’t easy but it is for such a worthy cause and think how lucky I am to be able to jump on a bike and cycle 90km. Your health is your wealth and all I can do is try as best as I can to raise awareness and money for this wonderful charity which the Laurels are such an important part of.
Gazette
30 LUCAN gazette 12 March 2015
SPORT
FastSport
soccer: greenogue side set for all-ireland final return
Blue Bulls brush off Dungannon challenge NUIM Barnhall picked up a strong 20-8 away victory over Dungannon last Saturday to stay just about in the top half of the Ulster Bank League division 2A after 13 rounds of matches. Winger Michael Mellett powered over for their first try of the game for a 10-3 lead after an earlier Simon Gillespie penalty. Mellett then crossed a second time to establish a 14-point lead after 32 minutes. Dungannon got a try back but Gillespie’s second penalty closed out the win. Next on the agenda is a home tie with Nenagh Ormond on March 28.
Hermitage all set for famous Scratch Cup HERMITAGE Golf Club is preparing to host one of its most important events of the golfing season, the Ladies Scratch Cup. This year’s competition is sponsored by Dermot Kelly, Main Ford Dealers, Kilcock . The event, played over 36 holes, takes place on Sunday, May 3 with a two tee start. The Hermitage Ladies Scratch Cup is the longest running in the country and celebrates an amazing 44 years in existence this year. Along with its longevity, the event has always maintained a high quality field and the organising committee are confident that this year will be no exception.
Previous winners include such luminaries as Curtis Cup player Mary McKenna, a nine times winner of the Scratch Cup trophy, and Scotland’s Belle Robinson, one of the first women to receive honorary membership of the R&A in 2014. Hermitage, with its award winning parkland fairways, will be in pristine condition on the day and everyone involved is looking forward to a day of high quality competitive golf. This is an ILGU Order of Merit event, with valuable points to be won. Entry forms can be downloaded from the ILGU website www. ilgu.ie or Hermitage website www.hermitagegolf.ie. The closing date for entries is Friday, April 24. Entries are limited to the lowest 72 handicaps of 12 and under.
Peamount United will be looking to go one better than last year when they lost in the Under-16 All-Ireland final
Peas kill off Kilkerrin nathan kelly sport@dublingazette.com
PEAMOUNT United’s Under-16s girls booked their place in the WFAI’s Cup final last Sunday with a 4-1 win over Roscommon outfit Kilkerrin United. A Naima Chemaou hat-trick inspired Tommy Mooney’s talented side to put one hand on the cup that they got so close to winning last season. This side also reached the Under-16 All-Ireland final last season only to be beaten by Dublin rivals Shelbourne in the decider. This time round, it will be
Salthill Devon standing in their way when the final is played on the weekend of April 18-19. Beaming with pride after reaching the final, Mooney spoke to GazetteSport about the win. “We’re all obviously delighted,” he said. “It’s always a great achievement to reach an All-Ireland final and I’m very proud of the girls.” The Greenogue gaffer was keen to heap praise on his team’s overall performance, while admitting Chemaou does deserve plaudits coming her way. “We played really well as a team, which we have
happy harriers Lucan club land series of athletics medals lucan Harriers had a very successful
couple of weekends at the Dublin juvenile championships with a number of their young stars winning medals. Among their medal winners were Saoirse Fitzgerald who got gold medals in the girls Under-9 500m while Sophie Reihill was first in the Under-12 long jump. Emma Reihill got a silver medal at Under-10 level in the 500m as did Hannah Moriarty in the girls Under-11 long jump.
done for most of the season,” he said. “Obviously Naima got the hat-trick from out wide which is really impressive; she’s in great form at the moment, as well as Alannah Walsh who scored the other goal. But the overall performance was really pleasing.” The score line suggests that the Peas had it much their own way but Mooney was quick to point out that it was a difficult cup tie. “It was a long trip, we had to leave quite early in the morning and then we were faced with a terrible pitch,” said the manager. “It was a GAA pitch to
be honest and it seemed as if we were playing against a lot of GAA players as is often the case down the country so it was tough but I’m happy with how we played.” As mentioned, this side reached this final of this competition last season but fell short against Shelbourne, who were actually knocked out against Salthill in this season’s semi-final. Despite that cup final loss last season, United went on to claim a league and cup double last year and are on course to double that this season, with them challenging on the
four fronts of the title, the League, the Leinster and All-Ireland competitions. Looking ahead to this season’s final and their Galway opponents Salthill, the Peamount boss informed us: “We played them once before, at Under-14s level. “We actually beat them in the semi-final of the All-Ireland that year so we’ll know a little bit about them. “I’m sure they’ve added one or two since then. They’ll be a good side; they have three or four internationals in their team so we’ll have to perform to win the game.”
12 March 2015 LUCAN gazette 31
Gazette
St Pat’s off to tricky starts in Division 2 sport@dublingazette.com
A SERIES of early cards, including one red, meant that St Pat’s P a l m e r s t ow n n e ve r really got off the ground in their AFL Division 2 tie against Castleknock last Sunday morning in Somerton. They fell 1-14 to 1-4 in their first league
game of the new season after they had a player red carded in the opening quarter that stunted their chances. It followed their initial league tie against St Anne’s not being played due to the unavailability of a referee a fortnight earlier, making for a slow start to the campaign for the Palmers-
town outfit. They return to action on March 22 with a home tie against Naomh Barrog. Castleknock, meanwhile, are among the early pace-setters with their second successive win to start the season f o l l ow i n g a n o p e n ing day win over Scoil ui Chonaill. They are among a group of four
teams including Ballinteer St John’s, Skerries Harps and St Mary’s Saggart to have started the season with two wins to their name. Round Towe r bounced back from a defeat on day one of the campaign to comfortably beat Naomh Mearnog 2-11 to 0-6 in Portmarnock.
football: sarsfields fall to promotion rivals
Lucan Sarsfields’ Dermot Gallagher holds off Ballinteer St John’s David Devereux
Lucan’s fast start cut short by John’s afl division 2 Lucan Sarsfields 2-11 Ballinteer St John’s 2-14 sport@dublingazette.com
BALLINTEER St John’s twice came from behind to land an up-tempo win over Lucan Sarsfields at the 12th Lock as Shane McCann’s pair of goals landed them the win. Despite still being early season and a stiff breeze aiming at the clubhouse end, the football was hugely entertaining with plenty of talking points. Facing into that wind, Lucan got off to a flyer with Dermot Gallagher starting off a run of 0-5 to
0-1 in the first 10 minutes. Rory Kelly appeared to be denied a clear goal-scoring opening with a tackle from behind to extend the lead. Ballinteer, though, showed little guilt-confidence over the let-off as Brendan Colleran started to eat into the deficit with three points – Robbie Gaughan and Duffy to the fore in their creation. McCann tied things up before showing huge strength to catch in between goalkeeper and full-back to slot the first goal. Dara Stapleton countered with a major for
Lucan in the 25th minute when turnover ball was quickly transformed into a three-on-one. But Ballinteer snatched a 2-7 to 1-5 lead at the break when Gaughan landed a superb point and Duffy tacked on a free. McCann then finished off Duffy and Aodan Clabby’s excellent right wing burst. That lead was quickly wiped out, however, as Lucan started the second half superbly, running up five points without response. Switching Stephen O’Shaughnessy onto McCann appeared to work well initially while
Stapleton’s pair along with scores from Paul Casey, Dermot and Brendan Gallagher levelled for a third time. Ballinteer awoke from their lull to edge back – McCann building his tally to 2-4 – in front but Stapleton’s second goal in the 50th minute swapped the lead in Lucan’s favour yet again. They could not score again, however, as the visitors scored the last five points to win out. Peter O’Curry landed a beauty to level at 2-11 each before Duffy added two critical frees in injury time to sneak the result.
Club Noticeboard lucan sarsfields OUR Division 4 football team have
There were excellent wins for our
vacancies on the management team
U-16A, 15A, 14B and 13A footballers over
for a coach and administration leads.
Naomh Mearnog, Cuala, O’Dwyer’s and
If you are interested, please phone 086
Ballyboden respectively.
2130103.
The U-14As earned a hard fought
There will be an Oiche Gaelach in the
draw with Castleknock in CBS, with a
Clubhouse on Monday, March 16 at
scoreline of 3-14 a piece. Our Minor A
8pm. Plenty of ceol, craic agus cupla
and B hurlers also had good wins over
focal promised.
Naomh Fionnbarra and Fingallians.
32 lucan Gazette 12 March 2015