Lucan 4 2 16

Gazette LUCAN

INSIDE: We ask the people what will sway their

vote at the upcoming general election Pages 6-7

Craft beer festival: Annual event brews up a storm at the convention centre Page 19

Comedy central: Project Arts Centre abuzz with RTE stars Page 12-13

sport Boxing:

Esker female showcase gets IABA backing Page 32

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February 4-10, 2016

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Lucan cbs students receive heroes’ welcome

MAX Amadasun, holding the trophy, and captain Kris Arcilla, with the golden ball, were greeted to a heroes welcome on their return to Colaiste Phadraig CBS following their Under-16A national basketball cup win last week. They both played key roles in the Lucan school’s dramatic 45-44 result, holding on for the win in dramatic fashion as their opponent, St Malachy’s from Belfast, came within seconds of nicking the outcome but saw a shot land just seconds after the final buzzer. “I’ve had a few matches like that over the years but that one takes the biscuit,” said winning coach David Gray. “It was serious stuff. “

Scoil Mhuire finally set for refurbishment job

Parents association

 ian begleY

pressure eventually

LONG-awaited refurbishment works will finally go ahead at Scoil Mhuire Girls NS following widespread pressure from the school’s parent’s association.

The school has waited

sees girls’ school get goahead for improvement

10 years for the works to begin, which includes the refurbishment of the school, upgrading the heating and bathrooms, and the addition of three new classrooms to replace its current prefabs.

This week, Minister for Education Jan O’Sullivan

(Lab) confirmed that refurbishment works for the school will go ahead with a letter of acceptance for the contractor being authorised.

The news has been greatly welcomed by Scoil Mhuire’s parent’s association and

principal Mary McIvor, who thanked all the parents, children, extended families and past pupils for all their help and support in achieving their goal in securing the building project.

Full Story on Page 9

2 LUCAN Gazette 4 February 2016

charity | over €500 raised by shedding hair

Holly proves she’s a cut above the rest  Ian Begley

Holly before and after having her hair cut for charity

A very generous girl from Balgaddy bravely shed her long dark hair for children living with cancer, raising more than €500 in the process.

Seven-year-old Holly Reid, a first-class student from Divine Mercy Junior NS, was watching television with her parents during the Christmas break when she saw a young girl on the news without any hair. Holly learned from her mam that the girl was very sick and lost her hair due to the medicine she was taking.

Her mam Sarah Byrne said: “Once I told her what happened to this little girl Holly immediately said I would love to give her some of my hair because I have loads of it.

“When I explained that she could if she really wanted to there was no stopping her. Her daddy needed a bit of persuasion because he originally didn’t want Holly to lose her beautiful long hair, but once he understood how committed she was he eventually came through.

“We then decided to raise money for charity before she donated her hair to the Rapunzel Foundation. We chose the Irish Cancer Society and Aoibheann’s PinkTie, and raised more than €500.”

Byrne then took her daughter to Shell’s Styles in Clondalkin Village where she underwent her second ever haircut.

“She was a little nervous while in the chair, but the girls in the salon were really brilliant at making her feel so special. They gave her so much attention and compliments and made her feel at ease.

Once the girls cut off her pony tail she was absolutely thrilled. It turned

out to be 18 inches in length and she still has a good bit of hair left over.

“We’ll always have this great memory of what she’s done and years from now if she wants to she can do it all over again.”

Speaking on her new look, Holly said she is very happy with what she’s done and can hardly recognise herself.

“My friends were really surprised when they saw me. One of the girls in my class even said I was adorable. My dad wouldn’t let me cut my hair at the start so we had to keep on telling him that it will grow back soon.

“My hair is going to the Rapunzel Foundation to the sick boys and girls who have no hair and I’m very happy that I could do that for them.”

The Foundation is a charitable organisation that works to improve the lives of those living with hair loss through fund raising as well as through hair raising. For more information about their work, visit www.rapunzelfoundation.com.

FastNews Emergency crews on call following recent bad weather THE council has reiterated that they are dealing with bad weather events with emergency crews on call throughout Dublin Mid-West following the recent spell of adverse weather.

The council’s road department has been allocated 3,710 tonnes of salt for the season and its gritters have been out on two occasions so far.

Crews from roads, water and drainage, housing and the public realm are on call 24/7 to deal with flooding, fallen trees, frozen/ burst pipes and other weather related incidents.

According to the council: “In the event of adverse weather, the public and business community will be kept advised of the ongoing situation using the council’s website, customer care team, Twitter, Facebook, e-mail, SMS text and regular press releases.

“Throughout the adverse weather period the council will give daily and sometimes hourly updates to the National Task Force that was set up to co-ordinate responses nationally.”

Lucan workers awarded for dedication and work ethic Two Lucan workers have been awarded as unsung heroes for their dedication and strong work ethic at their jobs.

Valentina Netotu and Oana Cenusa, both from Lucan and originally from Romania, were among one hundred workers honoured for their dedication in the 2016 GEM Awards (Going the Extra Mile), presented late last week by business service ISS. Netotu, impressed the awards panel as being a very reliable and hardworking individual. She works on multiple sites but is based in King’s Hospital in Lucan and has been working with the company for over four years. Cenusa works at the Bank of America where she has been for over a year and consistently receives high praise from a client who has very high standards.

4 February 2016 LUCAN Gazette 3

improvements | investment programme for 2016 announced

Council

Promoting a safer Internet

Local roads set to benefit from €20m  Ian Begley

The Nangor and Adamstown roads will benefit from a €20m improvement plan to facilitate Grange Castle Business Park.

The works, which will commence later this year, were announced by Minister for Transport Paschal Donohoe, as part of the €298 million investment programme for 2016 for regional and local roads.

South Dublin County Council said that the compulsory purchase order has been approved

by An Bord Pleanala with €2 million allocated to get works underway in 2016.

The development is expected to cost €20

million and is due to be completed by early 2018.

Strengthened The funding package will allow approximately 2,000 kilometres of regional and local roads to be maintained, and close to 2,000 kilometres strengthened this year.

Upon this announcement, Minister Donohoe said: “I am announcing the 2016 general grant allocations for regional and local roads which will allow local authorities to plan ahead and decide their annual work programmes. “€1.7 million will also be allocated to South Dublin County Council this year for speed

limit and associated signage.”

The Minister added that he “continues to be of the view that local authorities are best placed to assess priorities within their areas and considerable flexibility is therefore given to them under the various grant headings to decide on the work programme to be carried out in their area.

“It is also important to note that the purpose of these grants is to supplement local authorit i e s ’ ow n r e s o u r c e expenditure on the regional and local road network and therefore, do not represent the total investment in regional and local roads for this year.”

South Dublin County Council will mark Safer Internet Day on February 9 to promote a safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, especially among children and young people.

Silence Speaks Volumes

Lucan native, Patrick (Padge) Kelly is seeking the public’s help in highlighting what life is like for people living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Imagine not being able to say “I love you” this Valentine’s Day. Unfortunately that is the fate met by most people living with MND. Between 80-95% of people living with MND will experience some form of speech loss before they die. To highlight this Padge wants you to take on a 30min Sponsored Silence during the month of February. Just pick a day, time and location where you will take on your sponsored silence and then contact fundraising@imnda.ie or 1800403403 for your Silence Sponsor pack. Spread the word on social media by using #Voice4MND and text MND to 50300 to donate €2 (100% of text goes to IMNDA across most network providers.)

Theme The theme for Safer Internet Day 2016 is play your part for a better internet and provides an opportunity to reflect on the responsibility we all have to help create a respectful and inclusive online community.

On the day, South Dublin County Council will be sharing tips and information on internet safety on their social media profiles.

Visit www.saferinternetday.ie for more information.

general election | local authority has received 30 complaints

Early erection of posters agitates  Ian Begley

South Dublin County Council (SDCC) received 30 complaints in relation to the early erection of election posters by various candidates from the local authority.

The erection of posters is prohibited until after the Dail is dissolved and the polling order is signed for the general election. Candidates in breach of this rule can face fines between €100 and €150 per poster.

Howe ve r, a c c o r d ing to the council, the offending candidates gave their commitment to remove their elec-

tion posters immediately and were issued no fines by the time the local authority replied to The Gazette.

Local TD and candidate Joanna Tuffy (Lab) and Cllr Pamela Kearns (Lab) were at the forefront of criticism this week for having erected some of their election posters premature to this date.

C l l r G i n o K e n ny (PBP) said: “Labour’s last remaining TD in this area has obviously broken her own Government’s protocol on the erection of posters before the General Election has even been called and will likely result in heavy fines.”

Jonathan Graham, who lodged a formal complaint with the council regarding this issue, said: “The legislation on this matter is very clear. Posters cannot be erected prior to the order confirming the date of the poll.

“Many constituents become sore with election posters, many community groups even asking that candidates adhere to a voluntary ban on posters in certain areas.

“This is why rules around the erection of posters are in place,” he said.

A council spokesperson told The Gazette that: “Election posters

can only be erected for a certain specified time period before an election.

“This time is either 30 days before the date of the poll date or from the date the polling day order for the election has been made, whichever provides the shorter period of time.

“However electioneering signage can be erected at any time on private property (and not confined to the certain specified election time constraints) if it has the benefit of planning permission, or is exempt development as prescribed in planning regulations.

“I confirm that by

Deputy Tuffy said her posters will be removed until the date of the general election is announced

12 noon today [February 2] we had received 30 contacts (phone calls, emails, tweets etc) in relation to the early erection of election posters by various candidates as the polling day order has not be signed as of yet.

“Those offending candidates gave com-

mitments to have their election posters removed immediately and no fine have issued as of time of reply.”

Deputy Tuffy said that she did not wish to comment on the matter, but stated that her posters will be removed until the date of the general election is announced.

Cllr Kearns admitted that some of her campaign team had put her posters up early and apologised on Twitter.

“Well meaning but our over enthusiastic volunteers postering last night. Apologies for that. They will be taken down this morning,” she said.

4 LUCAN Gazette 4 February 2016

library

A vast array of activities Lu ca n L i b r a r y i s holding a vast array of activities throughout the month of February from pre-school events to adult learning courses.

Mo n d ay s w i l l s e e Lucan K nitting Club come together from 10.30am to 12.00pm, a n d o n We d n e s d ay, February 24 and Lucan Library Book Club will meet to discuss The Emigrants by WG Sebald at 7pm.

Eve r y Tu e s d ay a t 3pm a children’s story time for kids aged 3 to 5 will take place and a fun, interactive musical workshop for six months to children aged 4 will take place on Tuesday, February 9 at 10.30am.

An arts and crafts class for kids aged 7 to 9 will take place on Wednesday, February 10 at 3.30pm and another class for 10 to 12 will begin on Wednesday, February 17 at 3.30pm.

For a full list of events taking place in Lucan Library contact 621 6422 or visit www. southdublinlibraries.ie Many of these events need to be pre-booked asap at www.eventbrite.

courts | Plaintiff slipped on liquid on parquet flooring

Woman who dislocated thumb in pub fall awarded €90,000 A 4 4 -Y E A R - o l d woman who slipped on a bar floor and dislocated her thumb has been awarded €90,000 by a High Court judge.

Mr Justice Anthony Barr said Sharon Kelly’s fall was captured on CCTV in the Dublin bar and he was satisfied there was liquid on the parquet flooring in the area she slipped.

Ms Kelly, from County Offaly, sued Lackabeg Ltd, trading as The Arc CafeBar, Liffey Valley, Fonthill Road, Dublin, as a result of the fall after 1am on May 29, 2011. The company denied her claims.

She had been attending a 30th bir thday party and was wearing four-inch heels at the time, the court heard.

The judge said the liquid she slipped on may have come from the wet floor in the ladies toilet or may have been due to patrons spilling their drinks when coming from the bar.

“T his area should have been monitored carefully throughout

the evening and corrective action taken when drinks were spilled on to the floor,” the judge said.

Ms Kelly said while she was crossing the wooden floor area in the Lobby Bar, on her way to the toilets, she slipped and fell.

Lackabeg Ltd denied there was any water or other liquid on the floor surface and said it had a comprehensive cleaning system in operation on the night in question.

Mr Justice Barr said while there was a system in place for dealing with spillages, he was not satisfied it was properly implemented on that night when it was very busy.

It was likely, he said, the staff were so busy serving drinks and collecting empty glasses they were not able to take sufficient care to keep the floor dry and clean.

The judge said a Champions League final was being shown on a television screen and a two-for-one drinks pro-

Sharon Kelly from County Offaly was awarded €90,000 by a High Court judge

motion was available that night.

He was satisfied the bars and the nightclub in the premises were doing a substantial trade that night.

While not jam-

packed, it was nevertheless busy, he said.

He also accepted the evidence of two other women that the toilets in the public bar had been in poor condition that night and that com-

plaints had been made to the bar staff about the condition of the toilets.

Ms Kelly, the judge said, had a moderate amount of drink over more than five hours.

The judge said: “Peo-

ple cannot be expected to look at the floor when walking across a bar.

“She was entitled to expect that the f loor was dry and it was safe for her to walk across it.”

Thumbs down for trial of mini roundabout at Hillcrest THE council has decided not to trial a controversial mini roundabout at the entrance to Hillcrest.

In October, the council stated that they were planning to trial a new mini roundabout to replace the traffic lights at this site in an attempt to reduce traffic congestion in the area.

This was met with widespread objection from local residents who deemed the planned development as unsafe and poorly recommended.

In a response to a motion on this topic tabled by Cllr William Lavelle (FG) at the Lucan Area Committee meeting, the chief executive said: “The council’s traffic section carried out a modification to the signals at the N4 junction Newcastle Road and there were significant improvements to traffic flows with reductions in queue lengths.

“There are no proposals to trial the mini roundabout as a result. However, a preliminary design for an NTA compliant scheme which was completed in 2015 will be advanced in 2016 to final design subject to funding.”

4 February 2016 LUCAN Gazette 5

6 LUCAN Gazette 4 February 2016

vox pops | the gazette newspaper asks people about their main concerns Question: What is the most important General Election issue to you?

The health service needs improvements

One of the main things is the water charges and pay restoration

The national debt is a big issue, as is the national pension fund

 Paula

 peter barry, lucan

Geraghty,

THE big issue for me would be the national debt. They’re talking about getting rid of the universal social charge, and spending money here and there, but yet we have a huge national debt disservice. The national pension fund is being dipped into over and over again by the Government, which is putting many hard-working people into a state of uncertainty. I also have big concerns about who is going to replace the Taoiseach.

blanchardstown

One of the main things is the water charges and pay restoration in the public sector, particularly with newly qualified teachers who face a lot of barriers to getting paid when they start working.

 ken healy, dundrum

THERE isn’t one thing in particular that is most important, but I would like to see improvements made to the health service. They [the Government] need to completely change the local property tax, as the current system is badly implemented.

I’d like to see more jobs for graduates, such as those who’ve left

Garda stations, the HSE and bankers should all be focused on more  Delphine Dillon,

Wexford

I WOULD like to see closed garda stations reopened, and an overhaul of the HSE. I would like the politicians and bankers to be held accountable for their failures. And, of course, the water tax and the local property tax [to be changed].

 Lynda Espey,

Rathfarnham

PRIMARILY, I would like to see more jobs available for graduates, especially for those who have moved abroad because they can’t find work here. That would be a big concern I’d have.

4 February 2016 LUCAN Gazette 7

and issues in the run up to the general election 2016

The water charges are my main concern

Cost of third-level education to expensive

 daniel grant, blanchardstown

 Anne Trant, lucan

MY biggest concern is the water charges. I think the Government have no right to tax us on something that’s basically a human right. The fact that they put fluoride in the water is bad enough but now that we have to pay for water, I think it’s just too much to ask.

I think the cost of third-level education is getting more and more expensive and while there are grants available to students, transport causes a big problem for them. Going to the likes of DCU and Maynooth is very inaccessible if you’re from Lucan, and the day-to-day costs of transport alone is extremely expensive.

Keeping the country The cost of medication on the right track, and and the USC are both homelessness, matter big concerns for me

Homelessness is such a big concern  Marie Butler, lucan

 pat sheehan

blanchardstown

 Damien

Bracken,

MY MAIN concern would be to keep the country on the right track. Homelessness would be a big issue to me. I think the Government are trying to get a grip with the homeless crisis, but I still think a lot more should be done, and there is a lot more that they can do. This will take time and money so, hopefully, the next government will head in the right direction.

Water and household charges would be my major concerns  John Cummins

lucan

The water and household charges would be my major concerns as many people just can’t afford to pay them.

The [general] election is coming up, and of course they’re promising us many things.

But [An Taoiseach] Enda Kenny once said that he would never put a tax on someone’s home, saying that it would be immoral. He lost his morals very quick once he got elected.

lucan

MY WIFE is on medication for the rest of her life, so receiving a medication card is something we’re really trying to fight for at the moment.

It’s proven difficult now with all of these cuts, and it’s one of the issues that I’m raising to politicians calling at my door. The universal social charge is another big concern of mine, which I think is an absolutely ridiculous tax – I think it’s an insult to the workers of Ireland.

Homelessness is a big concern to me because it’s on the rise  Ruby Lawlor

and Sean Durack

Homelessness is a big concern to us because it’s on the rise, which is horrible – it’s getting worse and worse.

We noticed that some premises are putting up homeless barriers, which are very inhumane – they should be putting money towards shelters instead.

The fact that homelessness is on the rise is such a big concern of mine. I know someone who lost their home and she went on TV to highlight what she was going through, and eventually she was given a house.

There are people on the housing list for a very long time, and I think it’s people-power which gets things done. The Government just needs constant pushing.

8 LUCAN Gazette 4 February 2016

opinion | Minister Richard Bruton unveils plans to keep recovery going

A three step plan to grow the economy There is hardly a family in Dublin that was not been affected by the collapse in employment in the crash.

90,000 jobs were lost in the capital over the three years 2008-2010.

That’s 90,000 pay-packets which stopped coming into communities, 90,000 families who faced uncer-

tainty about their future, 90,000 individuals who took a huge hit to their living standards and in many cases were forced to emigrate.

I saw the terrible impact first-hand around Dublin Bay North, the area that I represent, with hundreds of families directly affected by unemployment and

emigration.

That is why we in Fine Gael and Labour unashamedly said from the day we took office in 2011 that job-creation would be our absolute top-priority.

Reflecting this priority we put in place a comprehensive action plan for jobs to mobilise the efforts of the whole of Government

towards this one goal.

The aim was to rebuild a new economy based on enterprise and exports, to replace the failed model based on property and debt which collapsed in the crash.

The thinking behind this plan is that only an economy based on real, sustainable economic activities will be growing steadily over the medium term – real businesses, developing products and services in Ireland and selling them abroad – supporting the living standards that we all aspire to.

We implemented thousands of job-supporting measures through this plan – we doubled the number of trade missions, we put extra IDA and Enterprise Ireland staff in overseas countries where the jobs projects are won, we abolished the travel tax and reduced VAT on hospitality industry to boost the number of tourists coming to Ireland.

And these measures produced real results, with 64,100 extra people at work in Dublin since we launched and started implementing our plan in early 2012, according to the independent Central Statistics Office.

The parts of the economy that are growing most strongly are the sustainable, exporting areas which we specifically targeted in the plan – particularly tourism and exporting businesses in manufacturing and services supported by IDA and Enterprise

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton

Ireland.

Dublin saw hundreds of major jobs projects – for example the northside gained from companies like Mylan (500 manufacturing jobs) and Oracle (400 jobs); the financial services and technology hubs in the city centre grew rapidly with thousands of new jobs announced; West Dublin benefited from rapid growth in pharma particularly (eg Alexion 400 jobs, Bristol Myers Squibb 400 jobs); and South Dublin has also benefited from major announcements like Sage (300 jobs) and CarTrawler (400 jobs).

More recently areas of the domestic economy like construction and retail have started to bounce back strongly also.

Contrary to false and dishonest claims coming from some quarters, the evidence shows that most of these jobs are full-time, well-paying jobs.

IDA and Enterprise Ireland companies, who pay well above the average, account for nearly half of them.

Only a tiny proportion

of the extra jobs (around 7%) can be accounted for by schemes like Gateway and community employment schemes. An even more tiny percentage are part-time.

These 64,100 extra Dublin jobs mark real progress. However, there are still far too many people unemployed in the capital.

That is why we are putting in place a new series of plans to drive on and keep the recovery going in Dublin – and the whole country – over the coming years.

If we are re-elected to Government in the coming weeks, we will implement our long-term economic plan, which is aimed at securing that recovery – which as we all know is not guaranteed, but could very easily be destroyed if the wrong policies are implemented.

This we will do by implementing our three step plan – first of all create full employment for Dublin and for the entire country.

Last week I published our Dublin jobs plan at an event in Butlers Choc-

olate factory in Clonshaugh, which is aimed at creating 66,000 extra jobs in the capital over the coming years.

Secondly we will ensure that work pays, by reducing taxes on work and ensuring that the entrepreneurs and workers who get out of bed in the morning and drive the economic recovery are properly rewarded.

And thirdly we will invest the taxes that are produced by the growing recovery in improving the services the families depend on – the gardai, the health services, education, the transport network and the childcare services.

Twice in my lifetime I have seen the opportunity for sustainable full employment destroyed, and each time it was by parties who had no plan to grow the economy but plenty of plans for how to spend the resources that a growing economy produced.

I’m hoping that in a few weeks time the people will re-elect Fine Gael and Labour and make sure we keep the recovery going this time.

4 February 2016 LUCAN Gazette 9

Scoil Mhuire Girls NS | parent’s association welcomes refurbishment

Ten-year wait for works at an end  Ian Begley

L o n g - awa i t e d refurbishment works will finally go ahead at Scoil Mhuire Girls NS following widespread pressure from the school’s parent’s association.

The school has waited 10 years for the works to begin, which includes the refurbishment of the school, upgrading the heating and bathrooms, and the addition of three new classrooms to replace its current prefabs.

Children have also b e e n we a r i n g t h e i r jackets in class due the inadequate heating sys-

tem, according to Scoil Mhuire’s parent’s association.

T his week, Minister for Education Jan O’Sullivan confirmed that refurbishment works for the school will go ahead with a letter of acceptance for the contractor being authorised.

This will mean that, subject to the contractor’s schedule, work will begin within the next two weeks.

In a letter to local Minister Frances Fitzgerald, O’Sullivan wrote: “I can understand the frustration of parents and staff with any delays to school building projects, but it

is important that we are prudent in how we manage our expenditure.

“The work to profile expenditure for the year has now been completed.

In relation to the specific project in Scoil Mhuire, this allows the letter of acceptance to issue from the school to the contractor for this project today [January 26].

“As the board of management is the client, we will be writing to the school to advise them that they are authorised to issue this letter of acceptance. It is a matter for the contractor to determine when work will begin onsite, but work will certainly

begin within the next fortnight,” she said.

The news has been greatly welcomed by Scoil Mhurie’s parent’s association and principle Mary McIvor, who thanked all the parents, children, extended families and past pupils for all their help and support in achieving their goal in securing the building project.

A sixth class student from the school also wrote an open letter, voicing her concerns and what it is like to have no proper heating system in class.

“We have been waiting 10 years for our new school building which

Minister for Education Jan O’Sullivan confirmed that refurbishment works for the school will go ahead

we were told would start when I was in senior infants. Almost seven years on and we still have no new extension.

This year our school will be 120-years-old and even though it is a

great school there are a few problems.

“One is that it’s really cold in the classroom in winter and some classes have to wear their coats indoors and pass around a heater. Another is that

the third classes have to use outside toilets.

“I know that I will not be here when the building is finished but I would like to be here when it star ts,” she said.

10 LUCAN Gazette 4 February 2016

LUCANGazettegallery | Lucan Toastmaster’s open evening in

John McGrillen

Linda Fegan and Vincent Kirby

Theresa McGauran, Linda Fagan and Liam Power. Pictures: Jolanta Rossiter

Farrukh Suhail, and Knemray Odoye

Emma Fahy and Cecilia Saunders

Giedrius Savickas and Aisling Keenan

Gerry Kenny and Mick O’Sullivan

4 February 2016 LUCAN Gazette 11

Springfield Hotel gives public opportunity to see what they’re all about

Nawaz Zai

Pat Behan and Michael Lee

Pam O’Neill and Sandra Losty

Toastmasters have their say

Tony Sourke. John McGrillen and Colette Grant

Paul Ellis and Wajid Khan

12 LUCAN Gazette 4 February 2016

Gazettegallery

| RTE Radio’s first ever radio comedy festival

Comedy extravaganza comes to arts centre Deirdre O’Kane, Gearoid Farrell, Amy Huberman, Fred Cooke, Colm O’Regan and Maxine Jones. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Amy Huberman and Deirdre O’Kane

T Comedians The Nualas

he Project Arts Centre in Dublin was buzzing with laughter recently as RTE Radio 1’s Comedy Showhouse got up and running, it is due to finish on February 7.

The first of its kind, the event is a new festival of

Irish comedy, featuring Sean Hughes, Deirdre O’Kane, Andrew Maxwell, Al Porter, Colm O’Regan, Fred Cooke, Amy Huberman, John Colleary, Foil, Arms and Hog and many more. The live comedy recordings will be broadcast on RTE Radio 1 across 2016.

Good things...

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4 February 2016 LUCAN Gazette 13

Gazettegallery

| launching Team Dublin Clean-Up initiative

Katie Delaney from St Brigids National School with

Megan McLoughlin from St Brigids National

broadcaster Joe Duffy and An tArdmheara Criona Ni

School

Tidying up the capital Go team: launching litter initiative. Pictures: Conor McCabe

Dhalaigh

A

n tArdmheara Criona Ni Dhalaigh and broadcaster Joe Duffy launched Dublin City Council’s inaugural Team Dublin Clean-Up initiative recently outside St Catherine’s Church, Thomas Street, Dublin 8. Team Dublin Clean- Up calls on residents, community groups

and businesses in Dublin to come out and support a special clean-up effort in their local area ahead of the 1916 Centenary Commemorations.

The collaborative clean-up will take place in various locations around the city on Easter Saturday,

March 26 from 11am to 1pm. Individuals and groups can register on www.teamdublincleanup.ie. Dublin City Council’s Waste Management Division will be providing all clean up equipment to those who register and will remove litter collected for disposal on the day.

Pupils from St Brigids National School Lexie, Lee and Zoe Ecock

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14 Gazette 4 February 2016

music | massive attack live at the olympia theatre, january

Old energies, passions to the fore in new tour  colm murray

MASSIVE Attack’s last visit to these shores was a near perfect performance on a near perfect summer’s evening, closing 2014’s Longitude festival in Marlay Park in the south of the city.

Prior to that, it was (akin to this evening)

at the beginning of their European tour showcasing new material.

Opening the set amid a swirl of fog with new track Dead Editors, the tone was set for the evening.

The following four numbers mirrored that of their Marlay Park set – Battle Box, Unit-

ed Snakes, Rising Son – introducing “living legend” Horace Andy for his first number, the brooding Girl I love You – all portraying the claustrophobic atmospherics associated with a Massive Attack show.

Their trademark visuals still provided a backdrop of pulsating

images and dates from the current Syrian conlict.

On this night, they chose to rely on new material for the bulk of their set and left out many classics such as Safe From Harm and Unfinished Sympathy.

Perhaps they felt tracks like these wouldn’t have been in keeping with the overtly ominous overtones of the rest of the set, and the socio-political commentary being screened behind them.

Even the hits they did choose to perform – such as Teardrop – just didn’t have the impact that was expected (vocalist Martina Topley Bird does not have the strength to pull this off convincingly), but instead sounded a little weak (this may have been the fault of the mix), although the return of Horace Andy with Angel was definitely the highlight of the show.

Massive Attack can

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

‘Their trademark visuals still provided a backdrop of pulsating images, from binary to flashing logs, and images and dates from the current Syrian conlict’

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be forgiven for areas of the set which appeared rusty, given this was the opening night of the tour.

Certainly, as the tour picks up momentum and the release of further material becomes more familiar, this will definitely be a must-see show in the year ahead – it’s always a pleasure to see these guys, warts and all.

Massive Attack started their new tour off with a spin to the Olympia Theatre

Ritual Spirit feels infused with talent MASSIVE Attack’s long awaited new material has dropped in the form of a new EP, Ritual Spirit (Virgin/EMI), with a stellar cast of guest vocalists.

The four-track EP takes you on a journey that begins with Dead Editors – an opening track nearing five minutes long, featuring acclaimed rapper Roots Manuva at the fore.

The record takes a sonic shift to a more melodic realm with Ritual Spirit, introducing East Londoner Azekel on vocals. Atmospherically, it’s the lightest of the four tunes.

New outfit (lauded by Massive Attack leader, Robert Del Naja

as “the best band in the world”) Young Fathers’ collaboration on Voodoo in My Blood feels like a climactic moment for the EP, with traits reminiscent of Heligoland pushed into fresh new territory.

Driving it home is Take It There, and Tricky kills it. Since his acrimonious split from the group after the release of the Protection album, his presence is an embellishment that feels like he never left as he wraps the track around his rasping vocals. (Tip: listen to this on a decent sound system and turn up the bass!)

Rumour has it that a full-length album is set to come later in the year, but if Ritual Spirit doesn’t

keep you sated, take comfort in knowing the group have another EP on the way.

Written and co-produced by Grant Marshall, the next release is pencilled in for spring – bring it on!

4 February 2016 Gazette 15

asdfsdaf finances P27 P18

feature P17

dublinlife Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week

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diary P16

a day in the life: author ava mccarthy balances writing with work and family life

Maintaining the write attitude  emma nolan

INTERNATIONAL best-selling crime author Ava McCarthy has just released her latest novel: Dead Secret.

T he Dublin-based writer took time out of her hectic schedule to talk to The Gazette about a typical day in her life, which sees her as not only a prolific writer, but a full-time financial services IT project manager at Bloomberg, and a mother of two.

Speaking on her newly published work, she said: “It’s about a young woman who discovers her husband has murdered their only child, so she decides to kill him and kill herself – but it doesn’t quite go to plan, and she learns things about her husband that she didn’t really want to.”

McCar thy resisted writing Dead Secret for a while, due to the dark and uncomfortable themes that it deals with, but she couldn’t get the story out of her head so she finally built up the courage to begin it.

On juggling writing and work, she said: “I work full time as well as writing, so it’s a challenge – it’s pretty hectic.”

Having taken a few years off work to write her

first three novels, McCarthy didn’t think she’d write another book, and she returned to work, but she said she decided to “use every spare moment” and finally wrote Dead Secret.

McCarthy, who has degrees in physics and nuclear medicine, credited her writing skills with her logical approach to fiction writing, and said that she is “particularly proud” of this book.

A typical day in the writer’s life starts at “the hideous hour of 5am” when she gets up to shower, wake the dogs, have a

cup of tea and sit down at the kitchen table when everyone else is asleep, where she can write for two hours before leaving for work.

“It has to be every day, otherwise I’d lose momentum, even if it’s only for half an hour, but it adds up.”

McCarthy said that her morning writing session flies by before it’s time to hop on the Luas to work, where she continues to jot down notes.

Her 9-to-1 routine consists of a busy work day, and then McCarthy finds a quiet place at lunch to

sit with her laptop to continue writing.

She said that there’re not many quiet places to sit in her busy office.

“Sometimes, the only alternative is to go into the ladies [toilets], put the lid down, lock myself in, put my laptop on my knees and just click away on the keyboard,” she laughed.

“You learn to tune out all the flushing, although I don’t know what the ladies in the other cubicles thought I was doing!”

McCarthy’s evenings are reserved for family time with her two teen-

Author, financial services IT project manager and mother of two, Ava McCarthy

age children, her husband and two dogs. While she often does a little work then, she uses this time to unwind and prepare for

the next day.

“My family are around then and the last thing I want is for my books to affect them in any way.

Once we’re all back in the house together, I don’t want to be locking myself in a room to write,” she said.

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16 Gazette 4 February 2016

dublinlife

diary

Sample a taste of Dublin with culinary delights

Foodies mark your calendars as Dublin’s favourite food festival, Dine in Dublin, returns this February for the eighth year running.

Taking place from Monday, February 22, to Sunday, February 28, the capital will come alive with a feast of culinary delights. Brought to you by DublinTown,

Dine in Dublin sees the biggest names in the Dublin foodie scene offer a tasty dining experience over the course of seven days.

Over 50 of Dublin’s most famed restaurants will participate, offering the very best of fresh local produce. The 2016 line-up includes Dublin hot spots Pichet,

San Lorenzo’s, Saba, The Church, Fallon & Byrne, Zaragoza, Red Torch Ginger, Le Bon Crubeen and Flanagans to name but a few.

Those shopping and socialising in the city centre can soak up the f lavours of the festival at Dine in Dublin’s Dine Pavilion; an exciting outdoor kitchen sit-

uated on the city centre streets throughout the week of Dine in Dublin.

Here the city’s top chefs will host live demonstrations showcasing the very best of their most loved Dublin dishes.

For more information and the latest news, including confirmed restaurants, activities and booking information, visit www.dineindublin.ie.

developing coding skills with fun Schools all over Ireland are invited to register to take part in this year’s National Scratch Competition.

Scratch is a visual programming language that encourages children to develop coding skills through fun and interactive learning. An educational tool that fosters creativity, critical thinking and problem solving and communication skills in children, participants can create their own interactive stories, animations, games and music which can then be shared on the web.

Since the inaugural competition in 2010, Scratch has established itself among students and teachers as a leading platform and showcase for Ireland’s aspiring digital creators.

T he 2016 Scratch National Final will take place in the RDS during Tech Week 2016 (24 to 30 April). The closing date for registrations is Friday, February 12.

Top Dublin chef Temple Garner of San Lorenzo is pictured with Minister of Tourism, Transport and Sport Paschal Donohoe and Kerri Nicole Blanc announcing the dates for the 2016 Dine in Dublin festival

Irish Student Summit 2016 This year’s Irish Student Summit 2016 will take place on February 4 in Dublin Castle.

The event will host over 600 students, over 40 start-ups, 22 workshops and powerhouse business speakers from Twitter, Paddy Power, the American Embassy, the Indian Embassy, Silicon Republic, Ireland AM, Mor Gin, Cool Beans and Humans of Dublin.

One Student Start-up will walk away with a €1,500 investment from Enterprise Ireland in their business idea. A panel of judges will narrow down applications to the ten best from the online submissions and the public will be able to vote for their favourite two on Twitter and Facebook.

At the Summit, the final two applicants will go head-to-head in front of an audience and a panel of judges, who will vote for the winner.

Find out more at studentsummit.ie.

ridesharing not a popular option Four out of five passengers in Ireland feel safest

in a licensed taxi and a large majority would be against paying a stranger for a lift under a controversial ridesharing plan, according to a survey carried out for taxi company Hailo.

The survey, carried out by iReach, sampled 1,000 people nationwide.

It found that 85% of passengers do not feel they will come to harm in a taxi, with 64% saying they feel “safe” and 21% saying they feel “very safe”.

The survey found very low levels of public support for ridesharing in Dublin- a practice, illegal in Ireland but operating in some parts of the US and Europe, which allows motorists to offer lifts to the public for payment.

experience a digital career The Digital Hub in Dublin 8 is continuing its Future Creators Programme in conjunction with TV3 to give young people a chance to experience what a digital career would be like.

The programme offers young people the opportunity to hone their digital media skills in one of Ireland’s leading media

environments.

The programme aims to equip young people (aged 13 to 16) from Dublin 8 with digital skills, including coding, app development, digital photography, filmmaking, and website development.

47% have not yet made a will A national survey, published by end of life planning provider Once I’ve Gone, looked at the public’s opinions towards wills, and revealed that 47% of respondents have not yet made a will.

The survey showed that apathy is the number one reason for not making a will with two thirds (66%) of those without a will, claiming that it was down to “not getting around to it”. 8% felt that they were still “too young to make a will”, while 3% did not want to think about dying. These opinions were voiced despite the fact that 92% of those taking part in the survey were aged between 36 and 65+ years of age with loved ones to provide for once they have gone.

For more information about the service visit www.onceivegone.com.

4 February 2016 Gazette 17

FEATURE charity: annual fundraising harbour2harbour event to support depression

Walking to help beat the blues

THOUSANDS are expected to turn out for the eleventh annual Aware Harbour2Harbour Walk from Dun Laoghaire to Howth, or Howth to Dun Laoghaire, on St Patrick’s Day. The aim of the event is to raise vital funds for Aware’s support, information and education services about depression and bipolar disorder, which are available throughout Dublin.

The Harbour2Harbour Walk is a fundraising event that raises approximately €40,000 for the organisation’s services each year. Participants can start at

Howth Harbour and walk to Dun Laoghaire Harbour, or start at Dun Laoghaire and walk to Howth.

The 16.2-mile route showcases the beauty of Dublin Bay and offers a great alternative to mark our national holiday. It’s a great way to spend time with friends or family, and is also ideal as a solo challenge.

The route starts in Dun Laoghaire at the Harbour Plaza behind Dun Laoghaire Dart Station, and at the Bloody Stream Pub in Howth.

The Dun Laoghaire BID company is organ-

ising a family fun day in the Harbour Plaza to coincide with the walk, with food stalls, music, children’s entertainment and fairground rides.

Dublin Port Company sponsors the event for the second time this year, and will provide a fun-filled halfway stop at Ber th 18, Dublin Port, close to the East Link toll bridge.

Aw a r e r e l i e s o n events like this as well as public and corporate donations for 85% of its annual funding. Participants are encouraged to raise sponsorship through online platforms such as just-

giving.com, and some supporters have walked this route many times for Aware over the past decade.

Aw a r e s e r v i c e s include support groups, support line, support mail, Beat the Blues programmes (28,000 students each year) , and free life skills programmes based on cognitive behavioural therapy for 3,000 people each year.

More information on all of Aware’s services and this fundraising event is at aware.ie. The Aware Harbour2Harbour Walk 2016 is supported by Dublin Port Company and 98FM.

Jane Clancy and Ingrid Trant taking part in last year’s Harbour2Harbour walk, in aid of Aware

Choccy treats at Nutgrove

NUTGROVE Shopping Centre in Rathfarnham is celebrating Valentine’s Day this year with special musical entertainment and delicious chocolate truffles for visitors.

From 12-3pm on Saturday, February 13, customers can enjoy the musical stylings of David Mooney, who will be bringing his jazz renditions of classic love songs to the food court to serenade shoppers and celebrate the season of love.

The Nutgrove promo guys and girls will also be on hand to share a Valentine’s classic – chocolates – with visitors as a thankyou for all the love shown to Nutgrove Shopping Centre over the past year.

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18 Gazette 4 February 2016

dublinlife

FEATURES

the money doctor: making a financial plan - part 1

Save this advice – it could make a huge difference  john lowe

A PRIEST once told his congregation he had good news and bad news.

“The good news,” he said, “is we have finally enough money to build our much needed community centre this year.

The bad news it’s still out there in your pockets !”

Completing a financial plan for any project is essential, let alone your own personal plan, and the first part of that task is to actually start it.

Here’s how to do it in just 15 minutes – in my humble view this is a must read ...

I used to be a dreadful worrier. (Stick with me on this, because it is rel-

evant.) I would lie awake at two in the morning asking myself where I had gone wrong, and a voice would answer back: “This is going to take more than one night.”

Then I had the good fortune to work with a successful entrepreneur who, for the purposes of this article, I shall call Peter, because that hap-

pens to be his name.

The thing I noticed straight away about Peter was that he had elevated list-making to an art form.

Before he wanted to achieve something important – start a business, raise millions of euro a year for charity, launch a takeover – he would prepare a list of all the different steps involved.

Anyway, as someone who has elevated plagiarism to an art form, I copied him and, although I cheat (I often write down things I have already done for the satisfaction of being able to cross them off), I have found that the simple process of listing has dealt a deathblow to my nocturnal fretting.

What does this have to do with the subject on the card? If more people realised that financial planning was nothing more than a bit of glorified list-making, they might be keener to take it on.

est possible return.

• Give you enough money to retire early.

• Protect you and your dependants against financial hardship.

• Offer you financial freedom.

• Make you wealthy enough to never have to worry about the future, whatever it may bring.

T hink I am overpromising or exaggerating? If anything, I am erring on the side of caution.

A good financial plan can make you invincible.

What a financial plan will do for you I’ll cut to the chase.

Financial plans are powerful amulets. This is what a good, well-executed financial plan could do for you: • Wipe out all your personal debts.

• Help you pay off your mortgage early.

• Make sure you never have to borrow again.

• Help you build up plenty of savings.

• Ensure that your money achieves the high-

Financial planning in a nutshell W hat exactly is a financial plan? Perhaps the easiest way to explain how they work is to use an analogy ...

If you were driving from Copenhagen to Zagreb – heaven knows why, but you are – and you don’t have one of those wizard satellite navigation systems, you would not choose a road at random and hope for the best, would you? No, you wouldn’t.

Making a financial plan probably seems daunting.

However, the Money Doctor – John Lowe (inset) – has lots of sound advice to help you along the way.

You would plan your journey. If you encountered diversions, you would get out the map and decide on a new route. Throughout the journey, you would check on your progress.

Your financial plan should have the same qualities. That is to say, it should help you reach your destination, make your journey as fast as possible and stop you from wasting time, energy and, of course, money.

Getting started: think holistically Most financial products are bought on a one-off basis. Suddenly, you need a mortgage or you fall into the clutches of a life insurance salesman and – bang – you are making major financial decisions before you have time to think.

The result is that you may not get the best product for your needs ... or the best value. Every major financial decision you make should be part of an overall plan.

Thus, a particular product – such as a mortgage, loan, insurance policy or investment – should be judged not just on its individual merits but also in terms of how it moves you closer to where you want to be.

Dream, dream, dream, dream, dream, dream The Everly Brothers had a point. Dreaming has a huge role to play in financial planning. Consider what you’d like to be doing in, say, five years, ten years and 20 years.

Consider what work (if any) you’ll be doing, where you’ll be living and how you’ll be spending your leisure time. What will your family situation be? What – and this is key – will your financial situation be?

Once you have a clear picture of the future life you’d like to have, you can start expressing it in financial terms and working out how to get there.

See Part 2 next week

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, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week

Pets spencer is a playful pet who loves his toys and time with his carer The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week this week is Spencer – a male three-year-old playful pitbull cross who simply adores spending time with his carers.

He isn’t too keen on other dogs at the moment, so needs to be the only pet in the home, so he can have all of the attention for himself.

Spencer loves to play with his toys and will keep himself busy with them all day long.

Snuggle He’s a real creature of comforts and likes to snuggle into his soft, squishy bed.

If you’re looking for an active dog who excels in agility and other training, please contact Dogs Trust on 01-879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie.

You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.

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4 February 2016 Gazette 19

cuisine: annual three-day fair to once again highlight popular niche

Brewing up a lot of interest in craft drinks  ian begley

THE annual Alltech Craft Brews and Food Fair – Ireland’s largest craft beer festival – is back once again and is taking place in The National Convention Centre.

The three-day event will host the best of Irish and International craft breweries and distilleries, from Friday, February 5 to Sunday, February 7.

The 2016 fair will host more than 50 Irish and international breweries, cider producers, distilleries and craft brew distributors who will be sampling in excess of 300 craft brews from all across the world, including many seasonal and once-off brews created just for the event.

Last year, more than 10,000 people attended the event, which will also offer a selection of the best of Irish foods including cheeses, baked goods and hot food options, such as pies and crepes.

Conor Farrell, of Alltech’s Lexington Brewing & Distilling Company, said: “We are incredibly excited about this year’s event, which will show-

case the best of Irish and International craft brewers and distillers, allowing consumers to sample the range of brews being produced both in Ireland and overseas.

“The event also provides an opportunity for craft distributors and producers to network and share insights and innovations within this ever growing sector.”

Six Nations rugby will be aired on three of the biggest screens in Dublin throughout the weekend, and live musical acts will include the Camembert Quartet, DJ Aidan Kavanagh, Pump up the Jam, We Banjo 3 and Booka Brass Band.

Broadcaster and craft beer aficionado Rick O’Shea will entertain crowds attending Sunday’s fair with live interviews with exhibitors.

The day will also see the annual Craft Beer Grand Slam, which will warm up the crowd before the Ireland v Wales rugby clash, testing the taste buds of a team of Irish and Welsh fans.

The winners of the Dublin Craft Beer Cup competition will be

announced on the first day of the event by Dr Gearoid Cahill, European director of brewing science at Alltech.

This international competition was launched by Alltech in 2013 and allows craft brewers to showcase their beers and have them rated, tasted and analysed by an expert independent panel of beer judges.

Award-winning brewers receive prestigious gold, silver and bronze medals in eight different categories of beer and cider, establishing the best examples of each style.

At 2pm on Saturday, February 6, Alltech will attempt to break the current Guinness World Record for the Largest Beer Tasting at the event.

The current record of 714 people was set in Mexico in November, 2014. To set a new record, a gathering larger than this need to taste a minimum of three beers in the same room.

Tickets are available from www.tickets.ie and can be purchased from €15. For further information, see eu.alltechbrewsandfood. com.

Broadcaster Rick O’Shea and Conor Farrell, European sales manager, Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co, announcing the upcoming Alltech Craft Brews and Food Fair

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20 Gazette 4 February 2016

OUT&ABOUT New Look Dress €29.99

Pandora Interlocking heart bracelet €179

The Nuxuriance Ultra range, from Nuxe

 emma nolan

€120

ANTI-AGING skin care brand Nuxe has introduced its innovative new botanical formulation, Nuxuriance Ultra, to Arnotts this month and will roll the range out nationwide from February 20.

The French company’s first line of global anti-aging replenishing skincare is formulated on the basis of millions o f n e w- g e n e r a t i o n botanical cells from the saffron and bougainvillea bi-floral cell, which contain active molecules to create an extra-effective, targeted and continuous anti-aging action.

Studies carried out on more than 300 women revealed global anti-aging efficacy on all signs of skin aging, including a reduction in the number of wrinkles (even deep wrinkles), denser skin, enhanced radiance, along with seeing the oval of the face reshaped and lifted facial features.

The Nuxuriance Ultra range consists, firstly, of a replenishing serum containing crocus extract, which evens out the complexion.

There are two daytime moisturiser options for different skin types. For normal to combination skin, the fluid cream –

which contains sebum trapping ingredients – promises to mattify oily patches and makes pores appear smaller.

T he rich texture cream contains meadowfoam oil and organic poppy petal extract to nourish dry patches and aid cell nutrition.

The Night Magic moisturiser contains prickly pear extract, which stimulates the skin’s desquamation enzymes to create a rested appearance.

The collection also contains an eye and lip contour serum which targets wrinkles, slackening skin, dark spots, puffiness and dark circles.

Some 80% of women who tested this product found that the skin around their eyes appeared energised after use.

The final product is a re-plumping roll-on mask which resulted in firmer facial skin on 81% of women tested.

Thanks to maca root extract and the novel ultra-cool metal massaging applicator (which helps to create a stimulating and draining effect), this strengthens the formula’s action on skin radiance.

Nuxe’s products contain a selection of natural active, paraben-free ingredients, without mineral oils or animal origin ingredients.

New Look Skirt €14.99

t on Skir Monso

Nuxe ready to introduce its botanically-formulated Nuxuriance Ultra range

LOVE PINK WITH St Valentine’s Day just around the corner, now’s the time to get the colours just right in your latest look, and to drop some subtle (or not so subtle) visual hints that love is in the air ... and you might like some extra, well-deserved attention from your other half!

However, even if you’re not dressing up to get in the mood for February

14, pink is a wonderful, fresh colour to banish the freezing February winds, and to help brighten up and lighten up your spring wardrobe.

With pink jumping into many big name labels (see box, right), here are some simmilar high street designs that won’t break your (credit card’s) heart.

Next Coat €82

Accessorize Wallet €6

Littlewoods Ireland Bag €56

4 February 2016 Gazette 21

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Yours for a pretty pink penny AS ALWAYS, one turns to Brown Thomas for some of the top designer threads and on-trend label launches.

While the high street mir-

rors and mimics some of the latest looks from international designers, there’s just nothing like the original – and, while these items from a number

of high-end labels will set you back more than a pretty penny or two, we think you’ll agree that they’re more than worth it!

Littlewoods Ireland Skirt €48

Roksanda Rylett Short Sleeve Dress €1,295

Victoria Beckham Twisted shoulder drape midi dress €1,995

Roland Mouret Ivy wool crepe dress €1,535

Lanvin Single shoulder beaded tassel dress €995

Gazette

STYLE

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22 Gazette 4 February 2016

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OUT&ABOUT

TRAVEL

See for yourself why Hayfield Manor attracts couples to Cork from all across the country, with a great Valentine’s package

With luxurious rooms like the Bartra suite at the Ice Hotel, Ballina, Valentine’s Day couples won’t want to leave their home from home

february 14: lots of great getaways across the country

You’ll both love these St Valentine’s Day breaks  ian begley

WITH the festive season behind us, Valentine’s Day is on the horizon and this year there are a bounty of romantic getaways for lovers who need a well-deserved break.

Rathmullan Hotel in Co Donegal is offering a Valentine’s escape for €230pp from February 13 – 16.

Enjoy morning strolls on the beach, an afternoon seat by a roaring open fire, a classic love story from the comfort of your bed in late afternoon and a long bubble bath soak after dinner.

This package includes two nights bed and breakfast with a romantic evening meal in the Cook & Gardener restaurant, with a movie each evening, and staying in a standard room.

Before dinner each evening, find popcorn and a sweet romantic treat in your bedroom, and spend two hours in the company of Ingrid Bergman, Humphrey Bogart and other stars of the big screen.

At the other end of the country, Ballymaloe House in Cork is also offering a romantic two night getaway from February 12 – 15, for €260pp.

You will be welcomed with a glass of pink bubbly, and during your stay take a romantic stroll through the extensive 300-acre farm and gardens.

Relax by the fire in the drawing room or enjoy afternoon tea in the house’s conservatory.

Enjoy an intimate dinner for two in the Ballymaloe restaurant, romantically decorated with red

tulips.

Over in Wexford, love is a long, lazy lie-in at Dunbrody House, who are offering their very own “Love Is” package.

From €290pps, you will

with pre-dinner canapes and cocktails.

Spoil the one you love this Valentine’s Day with a one-night stay in luxurious Castle Leslie Estate, Co Monaghan.

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

‘Treat your sweetheart this lover’s weekend by taking a stroll through Longueville House’s walled gardens, cosy up by the roaring open fire, enjoy a drink or two and a three-course meal in the award-winning restaurant --------------------------------------------------------

get midweek accommodation throughout February in one of Dunbrody’s luxury rooms or suites.

Guests will also avail of the dinner-for-two menu from the Harvest Room, which includes a fivecourse seasonal menu

For €320pps, you can enjoy one night’s accommodation with a romantic candlelit dinner, along with a glass of bubbly in Snaffles restaurant.

Chocolates and a single red rose will await you in your bedroom, followed

by a fabulous full Irish breakfast the following morning. This offer is valid until February 25.

Steal away with your loved one for a romantic one-night stay in Longueville House, Co Cork this Valentine’s Day, from €169pps.

Treat your sweetheart this lover’s weekend by taking a stroll through Longueville’s walled gardens, cosy up by the roaring open fire, enjoy a drink or two and a three-course meal in the house’s award-winning restaurant, and enjoy a lazy lie-in the next morning.

This offer is valid from February 12 – 14, and includes a bottle of bubbly and chocolates in your room on arrival, dinner for two, and complementary late check out the next morning.

Welcoming Wexford invites you to Dunbrody House, where its ‘Love Is’ package offers plenty to give lovers a well-deserved break from city stresses

Castle Leslie Estate in Co Monaghan successfully marries old-world touches with modern luxuries, making a stay at its historic setting certain to delight

At Hayfield Manor, Cork, you can treat your better-half to one night of luxurious accommodation in a manor room, where you can enjoy a gourmet dinner in the romantic ambiance of either Orchids Gourmet restaurant, or Perrotts Garden Bistro.

On the morning of your departure, enjoy Hayfield Manor’s famous full Irish breakfast. This offer is valid from February 11 – 17, and is priced from €258pps.

Couples can also avail of a heart-to-heart one night break at the Ice House, Ballina, Co Mayo,

from €240 per night.

From February 11 – 14, enjoy a one-night stay in a luxurious river view room, and bubbles on ice in your room on arrival, along with a chocolate treat.

Your stay is complete with a themed table d’hote dinner in the Ice House’s restaurant.

Enjoy unlimited access to the Chill Spa thermal area throughout your stay and you can have a lazy breakfast the following morning.

For further information on all of these offers, see www.irelandsbluebook. com.

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4 February 2016 Gazette 23

SALE EXTENDED TO NEXT SUNDAY 7TH FEB

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24 Gazette 4 February 2016

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

ReelReviews

room

Well worth venturing into CRITICS around the world have been falling over themselves to praise The Room (Cert 15A, 118 mins), and it’s not hard to see why, thanks to the mesmerising performances at the heart of the film. A woman lives with her young son in a single room where they’re both being held captive by a man. She hatches a daring escape plan, so that her son can see the outside world for the first time ...

the 5th wave

Makes a bit of a splash ANOTHER film in the burgeoning ‘young adult’ genre, The 5th Wave (Cert 12A, 112 mins) sees likeable lead Chloe Grace Moretz star in the latest apocalyptic tale where only a plucky teenager can win the day. When aliens invade, unleashing waves of attack designed to exterminate us pesky humans, a young woman gets caught up in the fight back. Deftly told, and daftly entertaining.

dirty grandpa

Simply a mess to avoid HERE’S another truly terrible film for Robert de Niro to besmirch his legacy with. Here, he teams up with cinema albatross Zac Effron for Dirty Grandpa (Cert 18, 102 mins), which delivers exactly what the title suggests: a young man is confronted with his grandfater’s grubby, sleazy side on a long road trip together. Can they bond on the trip? Can you last to the end of the film?

Michael Keaton and Mark Ruffalo are among the leads fleshing out Spotlight, which largely follows a newspaper team’s efforts to report on corruption and child abuse

spotlight: A church sex abuse scandal is meticulously unravelled

Reveals disturbing darkness BASED on the Boston Globe’s early 2000s uncovering of Catholic Church sex abuse scandals, Spotlight (Cert 15A, 129 mins) is a sobering, enlightening, and fundamentally important film.

Given the difficult subject matter, Spotlight seems oddly out of place when placed next to The Martian, and Mad Max: Fury Road, on the Oscar nomination lists but, if anything, it goes to highlight some of the diversity that is creeping into the awards ceremony (though, as director Spike Lee pointed out last week, the academy is not quite there yet).

Named after the “Spotlight” investigative team at the newspaper, the film follows the behind-the-scenes work-

 Dave phillips

ings that led to a series of reports that exposed massive corruption in the Boston archdiocese, and beyond.

It is a harrowing story that we are all unfortunately familiar with from similar exposes in Ireland and around the world – a story that tells of that recognisable pattern of victims cowed into silence, priests moved on to new parishes, and the church as an organisation trying to save face at all costs.

And, while the focus remains for the most

par t on the church, Spotlight is really a film about the darker side of institutions – religious or secular – and how it takes someone from the inside to break the circle of silence which allows such corruption to occur systemically.

The “insiders” in this case are the Boston journalists who can sense the importance of uncovering the truth, while also being aware of the devastation within their community that will follow in the wake of their reports.

Set mainly in the bustling newsrooms of the Globe, Spotlight features an impressive ensemble cast including Michael Keaton, Mark Ruffalo, Rachel McAdams, and Liev Schreiber.

Schreiber plays

Marty Baron, the newly appointed editor, who is enough of an outsider to let the Spotlight team loose on the topic.

Chief among these is Walter “Robby” Robinson (Keaton) who, as a Boston local, is fully aware of the domino effect of blame – implicating everyone from school officials to lawyers – that come as part and parcel of pursuing the story.

“This is how it starts” Keaton’s characters says to a prominent local official who is pushing him to not run with it; “one guy leans on another guy, and soon everyone ends up turning a blind eye”.

There is an air of truth in the statement, which runs through the entire film. Spotlight feels

authentic in part because of the huge effort made to mirror the real journalists’ personalities with the characters presented on screen.

Nothing here seems overly scripted or filmic; instead, we get a genuine feel for the anguish of the voiceless victims, the vastness of the implications of the exposure, and the sheer ardour of the investigative work.

It is, in its tone and setting, reminiscent of the newsroom storyline of the final season of HBO’s The Wire (which, fittingly, director and writer Tom McCarthy starred in).

And, as in The Wire, the audience feels dropped into the deep end of a real, fast-paced world replete with its own jargon and rules of

engagement.

Spotlight is the kind of film that immediately forces you to sit forward and pay attention because it smacks of something that feels authentic and significant.

There is simply not enough space to do justice to Spotlight – a film that is crammed full of strong and memorable performances (Ruffalo and McAdams are nominated for Best Supporting Oscars), and which never once flags during its two hours of screen time, and which imbues such a powerful and important message.

This is how stories should be told, and this is how films should be made.

Verdict: 10/10

4 February 2016 Gazette 25

26 lucan gazette 4 February 2016

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Gazette

28 gazette 4 February 2016

SPORT

FastSport Mercy pipped at post in U-18 National cup: DCU Mercy missed out on the Hula Hoops Under-18 women’s National Cup title to SuperValu Brunell 72-69 after over-time.

The first half was truly a shooting showcase at either end and as Alex Macheta continued to be a thorn in DCU Mercy’s side, it was the introduction of Aoife Maguire for Mercy that proved to be crucial, as she helped drive the Dublin side to a 32-31 point lead at the break.

The second half was nail-biting, as Amy Murphy and Laura Morrissey helped put Brunell back into the lead, but determined play from Anna Brennan and Elizabeth Black kept the game neck-and-neck.

The teams were level on six separate occasions to see the game tied on 61-apiece on the final buzzer.

In over-time, it was Alex Macheta who was Brunell’s inspiration to nick a dramatic victory.

basketball: southsiders prevail in thrilling endgame over Swords

Temple of glory for Keenan men’s national cup Templeogue GCD Swords Thunder  sport@dublingazette.com

78 75

TEMPLEOGUE beat GCD Swords Thunder to claim their first Hula Hoops Men’s National

Cup Trophy with a 78-75 win at the National Basketball Arena.

It was a maiden final appearance for both sides, but a classic decider. The lead swung four times before Thunder missed a three-pointer on the

MVP Michael Bonaparte takes on Dan Nelms

final buzzer to send the Templeogue faithful into rapture.

“The way we came out in the third quarter and did our best to lose it in the fourth, it’s a special night,” said Templeogue Coach Mark Keenan with a fourth Cup medal around his neck. “You see the spirit within the group. We always believe we can do it.”

It was an adrenaline fuelled opening quarter. Michael Bonaparte showed no ill effects of the injury that prompted rumours of an American recruit being parachuted into the Templeogue lineup.

Sean Flood was the early scorer though. Having shot at just 13% in the semi-final, the 19 year old

Templeogue celebrate their National Cup success. Picture: Cathal Noonan/Inpho

landed three from four triples as Templeogue led 24-16 after 10 minutes.

From Swords Thunder’s American quartet, it was Dan Nelms who got the nod to start. The Davidson alumnus set about neutralising Jason Killeen on the offensive boards, before Mike Garrow added more penetration into the mix. Then Thunder took over altogether.

The second quarter was a write off for Templeogue, managing just four points and turning the ball over six times.

Isaac Westbrooks upped his steal count and Alex Dolenko contributed a pair of three-pointers to a 10-0 run for a 39-28 lead at the break.

Ex-Ireland International Paul Cummins was

heating up in the second quarter of his first game in 11 weeks. His outside shooting topped up second chance scores from Michael Bonaparte to level the sides at 49-49 late in the third. Stephen James followed up with a couple of downtown three-pointers and it took Westbrooks to snap a 13-0 run with the last shot of the third.

Leading 57-51 with ten minutes left gave no cause for comfort. Michael Bonaparte did. A threepoint play and a massive block on Sergi Guardia gave them their first double-digit lead.

Thunder hadn’t clapped out just yet. Alex Dolenko finished defiantly off his own steal and Dan Nelms’ dunk edged them

closer and a Westbrooks jump-shot brought it back to 67-70 with 90 seconds left.

Jason Killeen completed a double-double with his most precious rebound of the evening to prevent Thunder from an equalising opportunity.

Fouled in the process, they also iced the freethrows at the other end.

There were just 22 seconds and it was the first time the crowd felt they were looking at champions.

It was of no consolation to GCD Swords Thunder Head Coach Dave Baker that he was part of a thriller. It was a spectacle, but obviously we’re disappointed. We’re proud to have come so far and we can enjoy that much.”

Killester burned by Team Montenotte in women’s final  sport@dublingazette.com

Claire Rockall scores a basket despite the efforts of Killester’s Ali Maguire. Picture: Cathal Noonan/Inpho

PYROBEL Killester found Team Montenotte Hotel too hot to handle in the women’s Hula Hoops National Cup final last Sunday at the National Basketball Arena, falling 96-64 in a one-sided affair.

Killester had lost none of the grace or steel that has seen them fight for silverware on two fronts this season. They were simply overpowered by a side peaking when it mattered most.

Aine McKenna was the big

gun and revelled in her captain’s role. The MVP had 10 points in four minutes and the Glanmire club still had time for a 12-0 run, becoming just the second side of the national cup weekend to hit a 30-point quarter.

Killester coach Karl Kilbride gave his bench the opportunity to get to grips and put three Under-20 women’s cup champions on the floor from earlier in the weekend.

Aoibheann Byrne and Aisling McCann rewarded his faith with baskets as Killester managed a considerable 20-point quarter.

The only problem was that Glanmire repeated their first quarter trick and put up another 31 points.

One by one they stepped up to hit their shots. Marie Breen hit a pair and Chantell Alford refused to miss.

They’d hit the half-century in 17 minutes of basketball, shooting at 67% on both sides of the three-point line.

When the sides met in the 2015 decider, Team Montenotte Hotel won 62-36 on the back of a one-point lead at half time.

This time around, they were

already 62-34 clear at the break.

In 32 years of national cup basketball, only two women’s clubs have scored 80 points or more in 40 minutes.

I n 19 91, B l a r n e y b e a t Snowcream Wildcats 86-56 and were back at the Arena as part of their 25 year jubilee celebrations.

Glanmire’s first National Cup win was courtesy of an 89-75 win over UL Aughinish. Marie Breen scored 29 points that day in 2007 and had a double-double in 2016.

4 February 2016 gazette 29

Gazette

Humble Brandon’s family inspiration Former Moyle Park College and Lucan United man Brandon Payne says family roots are keeping him grounded as he looks to make the leap forward with Glasgow Celtic in 2016  adam doherty

sport@dublingazette.com

MOST young talents, when asked, would point to the greats like Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo as their main source of inspiration.

For former Moyle Park College and Lucan United man Brandon Payne, his inspiration comes from much closer to home. He cites his uncle Philip Sheppard – a former St Pat’s, Shamrock Rovers and Cherry Orchard striker – as the key motivator in his footballing career.

It is indicative of his humble approach – saying he is just a “normal lad from Bawnogue” – and the importance of family to Payne who is making waves since his move to Glasgow Celtic.

The 18-year-old says he is living the profes-

sional footballers dream at the moment, saying it is something he was: “just brought into as soon as I could basically play!

“Growing up, my idol was my uncle [Sheppard], he played and brought me into football so he was someone who I looked up to as a kid.”

Indeed, family is especially important to him, saying the struggles of being away from his family and, especially, his younger brother Jordan being the hardest part.

“It is tough being away from the family, I only get to come home every so often.

“I have grown up with Jordan; he is a good person and a great footballer so hopefully he can push on and do well for himself, but I do keep in touch with him daily through Facetime”.

Payne’s career started with Ashwood before moving on to Lucan where he linked up with an incredibly productive side, one which has seen Irish underage international team mates Conor Masterson signed up

by Liverpool and Sean Whelan moving to Preston.

At Lucan, he rapidly rose to earn an Under15 call-up for Ireland but suffered a careerthreatening injury when he broke his leg against Dundalk.

“The injury was horrible, I was out for about a year so it took me ages to get back fit and I thought I wouldn’t be able to play again.”

Nonetheless, he worked his way through many doctor and physio sessions and came back to his best to get his first deal in January 2014 with

Brandon Payne in Lucan United action. Picture: Stephen Findlater

Glasgow Celtic.

It saw him follow in the footsteps of Roy Keane, a player very much in his mould as a combative midfielder with a keen relish for the tackle allied to an eye for a pass.

When part of the Irish underage set-up, the FAI

its after my injury; he did not have to meet and speak to me but he did so I was really grateful he did.”

When asked about the lifestyle and adapting to the life as a full-time footballer, Payne says he is certainly in his element.

“The lifestyle is unbeliev-

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

“Many people said [Roy Keane] would be scary but he told me straight out what I need to do” - Brandon Payne --------------------------------------------------------

arranged for Payne to meet Keane in Malahide.

Keane spoke to him about his experience of being rejected so many times as a youth and this provided much motivation for the youth.

This talk rung true for Payne in the wake of his injury issues that set him back. The motivational effect was immediate and he scored in a match later that evening.

When speaking about this experience of meeting Keane, Payne said: “He was unbelievable; many people said he would be scary, but he was real down to earth and he was straight out by telling me what I needed to do to make it.

“He won’t tell you lies, he really is an idol to so many people and he is also a great person to talk to. It lifted my spir-

able, but you cannot get too carried away with it.

“Adapting to it is obviously tough but, at the end of the day, you are getting paid so you cannot complain or give out too much.”

Speaking of his time at Celtic, Payne has endured a couple of injuries but has been a regular for their development side in the 2015-16 season to date and is back with the Republic of Ireland Under-19 side, lining out against Hungary and Croatia.

Speaking of his goals for the future, Payne adds: “I aim to push on and make a good living, so hopefully I don’t have to come back to Ireland and work!

“In five to ten years, I feel I will still be playing football or will definitely still be involved with it.”

FastSport

Smith steps away after stellar Irish amateur stint GERRY Smith has announced his decision to step down from his role as Republic of Ireland amateur international team manager.

Smith has opted to stand down after 20 years in the role following the fantastic high of leading the Eastern Region to the UEFA Regions Cup title last summer.

The Dubliner previously led the Irish representatives to the UEFA Regions Cup Final in 2011 when they were beaten by hosts Braga from Portugal.

Smith, 60, also managed the Republic of Ireland at the World Under-20 championships finals in the UAE in 2003. He also worked with Brian Kerr in a scouting and analysis role at the successful 1998 Under-18 UEFA championships finals in Cyprus.

His time with the junior international side included winning the Quadrangular tournament four times and securing runners-up places six times. Smith and his squad also won the Davie Pocock Cup twice against the Netherlands.

Smith’s 35 games as manager in the UEFA Regions Cup saw his Irish representatives qualify for final tournaments five times. His Irish side’s last 10 competitive games were all victories.

“I feel the time is right for me to step down from the role having reached the pinnacle by winning the UEFA Regions Cup in 2015,” said Smith.

“I have enjoyed the job immensely and wish to extend my sincere appreciation and gratitude to the secretary Denis Cruise, the committee, council members and all past Presidents for the help and cooperation in making my job that much easier over the years.

“I would also like to place on record my thanks to all my own backroom staff and all the players who have played under me as a manager over the years. I have made great friends and will be eternally grateful to the FAI for the opportunity to manage such a great group of people.

“It is my intention to stay involved in football in the future but for now I’ll be recharging the batteries. So for the next weeks and months I’ll be at games and trying to enjoy them in a different way.

We got out on a high and that’s all you can ask for.”

Gazette

30 lucan gazette 4 February 2016

SPORT

FastSport

Fitzgerald breaks Irish 1,500m national record LUCAN Harriers athletes had a great weekend with good performances in Athlone and Raheny.

On Saturday, Carol Kearney and Niamh Fitzgerald travelled to Athlone to the indoor national league, producing a pair of fine runs with the latter breaking the Over-40s Irish national record for the 1,500m in a time of 4.46.

On Sunday, 27 Lucan Harriers athletes joined the 2,274 people taking part in the AXA Raheny 5 Mile.

Two Lucan men, Will Byrne and Patrick Holden, came home in the top 100 and there was a personal best for Lucan’s leading lady Breda Smyth. There were also eight athletes from Lucan’s Fit4Life group taking part with some of them tackling their first 5 mile race.

In the team events, Lucan’s men finished in tenth and the ladies ended in twelfth.

The Lucan group that took part in Raheny are pictured above.

Adamstown hosting 5km and 10km fun runs ADAMSTOWN Community College is holding a 5km/10km charity fun run on March 6.

The race will begin at 11am from the grounds of the Community College and the course will be run through Adamstown and Lucan.

There will be a reception afterwards in the foyer

of the college where refreshments will be served.

There will be prizes on the day for first home, male and female, for both races and also for first Under-16 home.

You can register online on www. popupraces.ie or on www.adamstowncc. ie while there are registration forms available from the college reception.

Late registration will be available from 9.30am on the morning of the race.

soccer: lucan united alumni making waves in ireland and abroad

Former Lucan United players Sean Whelan, left, and Mikey Place, right, are making waves

Whelan and Place shine bright sport@dublingazette.com

FORMER Lucan man, Sean Whelan recently captained Preston North End to victory over Exeter City in the FA Youth Cup. Preston came from behind with Whelan heading the equaliser before a late-winner and will now face Luton in the fifth round next Wednesday.

Speaking after the win, Whelan said: “All of the lads are buzzing with the win, everyone is over the moon that we got through and especially with the way the game went.

The spirit we showed was great, we never

stopped, and that’s what we have in the group.”

Another former Lucan United schoolboy Mikey Place signed his professional contract last week at League of Ireland club Sligo Rovers.

The Galway native joined a handful of other graduates from the Rovers underage system by signing a contract for Dave Robertson’s firstteam squad.

The attacking midfielder played youth football at hometown club Dunmore Town, as well as Lough Harps and of course Lucan. While a United player Place represented the Republic of

coaching pathway Esker Celtic kickstart education programme esker Celtic enjoyed a great milestone this week as they continue to build on their commitment to high quality coaching in the club.

As part of the club’s coach education programme, over 20 coaches received Kickstart One qualifications, the first step on the FAI’s coaching pathway.

This included a dozen of the club’s youth players also started out on this coaching pathway.

Ireland at Under-17 level.

The 17-year-old then joined Sligo’s Under-19 squad at the start of last season, scoring goals against Finn Harps and Letterkenny throughout his nine appearances.

His per formances certainly impressed as the youngster tasted first-team action in a mid-season friendly against Motherwell last season. Speaking about the former Lucan lad, Robertson said; “I am really pleased to have signed Mikey. Having watched him play when I came first he was one that caught my eye with the impact he had on the

game against Limerick.

“He has added to that by being really impressive in the training session I had with the U-19’s, and now with the first-team in the last couple of weeks he has really flown.

“For me it was a simple process to get him signed.

It’s what we are all about to give local players a chance and he is one that has really stood out.

What we want is to give a pathway for these lads through to the first-team,” added Robertson.

The Sligo boss also discussed what Place can add to his ‘Bit o’Red’ squad through his dynamism. “He can play as

a midfielder or a striker and he’s full of energy.

He is really good in the attacking areas and has the pace to get in behind defences and cause them problems.

“He has scored some fantastic goals and he has a real natural eye for where the goal is.

“But he also has a good understanding of his role in the team and the defensive structure that we have.

“He’s got the energy and the desire to go and win the ball back quickly.

He understands exactly what we are looking for him and is definitely one for the future I think.”

4 February 2016 LUCAN gazette 31

Gazette

new sponsor

Braudstone support Tower’s Under-10 team

Club Noticeboard lucan sarsfields THE senior footballers preparations

michael Fogarty, from Braudstone

Motors, has extended his support for Round Tower Under-10 girls’ footballers.

He is pictured at the presentation of their ne team kit. The girls have resumed training for the season ahead and train at 5.45pm at Monastery Road every Thursday. For further information, contact team mentor Ken Byrne at 087 9983484.

hurling: lucan man to the fore in challenge tie

creating a Mentors Downloads sec-

planned challenge game in Navan fall-

tion on the web site. Hopefully this will

ing foul of the weather.

ease the burden as it also provides

Nonetheless, preparations con-

access to the various forms required

tinue with Eoin Dunne running very

for equipment, insurance claims etc.

organised and disciplined training

All feedback welcome.

sessions, and a further challenge

Operation Transformation con-

game planned for Sunday next in

tinues at the club every Tuesday and

Moorefield, Kildare before their first

Thursday evening at 7.30pm, in asso-

cup game in a fortnight.

ciation with SDCC sports partnership.

The junior footballers are still look-

Never too late to join in, simply turn

ing for management, coaches etc. Any

up before the first walk on Tuesday/

interest? E-mail lucansarsfieldspro@

Thursday at 7.30pm.

gmail.com.

O’Reilly at the heart of Dubs Stars’ show

challenge match Dublin 2-24 Dubs Stars 5-12  sport@dublingazette.com

LUCAN Sarsfields man Kevin O’Reilly found himself at the heart of a frantic Dub Stars hurling second half, smashing in two of the challengers five goals and 2-4 in total, but ending on the losing side regardless at Glenalbyn over the weekend.

The tie came less than a day after the Dublin senior hurlers won the Walsh Cup and the footballers opened their league campaign with a win over Kerry.

As such, there were a large number of changes from the initial squads named, a challenge match that pits the Stars of the 2015 Dublin senior football and hurling championships against the Dublin senior panel.

In the hurling, Dublin went in with a convincing lead of 2-10 to 0-9, with Sean Reilly and Round Tower man Eric Finn notching the goals.

Stars all but gave up on points in the second half, however, getting their reward with no fewer than five goals, all scored with the boys in blue sticking to keeping

the scoreboard ticking over.

O’Reilly was particularly effective, knocking in two of the goals, including a quality waistheight free that beat half the Dublin team on the line.

The ambitious attacking play couldn’t quite reel in McGrath’s consistent free taking, however, with the county side running out 2-24 to 5-12 winners in a frantically entertaining encounter.

On the football side, the Stars, following a late goal from St Patrick’s Donabate man Niall Collins, were in pole

position.

But a late leveller from an equally changed county side saw the tie finish Dublin 2-14, Dub Stars 1-17 with Stars middle man Craig Dias the outstanding player in running a smooth, fluid midfield from the challengers.

The scratch nature of both games and line-ups mean that, while county staff watching the hurling side might have been impressed by the attacking intent, it remains to be seen whether many will make an impact to the established county panels.

Cupla Focal Club is on every Mon-

The senior hurlers have a few more

day night, with Seán O’Lanagain. Eight

weeks before competitive action, but

O’clock do na daoine ag tosnu, and

they too have been preparing. More

nine O’clock dos na saineolai.

on that to come.

The Dublin senior hurling side with a group of young Kilmacud Crokes’s supporters. Picture: Diarmuid O’Gallchobhair

tent with, we have tried to help by

stuttered a little this week with a

Bingo is on its week off but it is prov-

Administrative changes continue

ing a very popular event are we really

with Greg O’Neill taking over from

would like some more volunteers to

Gerry McAndrew as chairman of the

allow this event move from its cur-

adult games committee.

rent fortnightly slot to a weekly one.

The Under-16 footballers got the

Set dancing continues on Wednes-

2016 competitive season underway

day at 8.30pm, and the 25-card drive

this weekend with a home league win

continues on Friday night at 9pm; new

over Palmerstown.

participants are always welcome.

Juvenile football gets into full swing

The big date for this week is Satur-

from next week with almost all age

day, February 6, which is the club’s

groups in league action or grading

annual awards night.

games. Not unusually for this time of

There was no winner of this week’s

year, pitches at AGP and Willsbrook

€2,500 lotto draw; numbers were 4,

Park were closed for the weekend

5, 14 and 22. Lotto sponsor was John

making it difficult for teams to get

Ryan, accountant, Esker Lawns.. Next

challenge games played.

week’s jackpot is €3,000, and the draw

Juvenile mentors have so many rules, laws, codes and policies to con-

will be managed by team Edel Mooney on Sunday night.

ST pat’s palmerstown THE lotto numbers for this week

Supervalu at 7pm and returning

were 11, 18, 27 and 28; there was no

after the event, tickets €5, places

winner so next week’s jackpot will

limited.

be €8,200.

Member ship is now due a nd

The draw takes place in the Palm-

remains unchanged from last year.

erstown House every Sunday night

Membership forms will be posted to

at 10pm and tickets cost €2.

all members in the coming weeks.

Thank you to all our sellers and

Membership can be paid on Tuesday

to all that support our lotto every

and Thursday 7-8pm in the club-

week. Tickets available from all the

house.

usual sellers including SuperValu,

Our AGM will be held on Febru-

Palmerstown House, Manor Hair

ary 24 at 8pm in the clubhouse. All

Studios and in the clubhouse from

members welcome.

7-8pm on Tuesday and Thursday.

Congrats to all our well deserved

Our Fundraiser The Kube is a joint

club winners: Cormac Dunne, minor

fundraiser with St Pats and Our

football; Sadhbh Duffy, minor cam-

Lady’s Hospital Crumlin Cardiac

ogie; Thomas Macken, junior foot-

Unit.

ball; Ashling Cox, senior camogie;

The fundraising event is taking

Ciaran O’Toole, senior hurling; Gar-

place in Westmanstown sports and

bhan Gallagher, senior football; U-15

conference centre on February 12.

football team for the team of the

Tickets are available now from

year award and John Horgan, club

Aidan Glennon, Rober t Carson,

person award. Congrats also to our

Ronan Mullins and Pauline Leonard.

minor and senior camogie teams

€20 each, should be a great night,

who also received their medals.

all welcome. Buses will be leaving

Thanks to everyone who attended.

GazetteSPORT all of your lucan sports coverage from page 28-31

captain’s role: Lucan United graduates making waves at Preston North End and at Sligo Rovers P30

february 4-10, 2016

pursuing the celtic dream: Brandon Payne on his rising career with Glasgow club P29

Participants and supporters at the 2015 Esker All-Female BoxCup

Esker get IABA backing All-Female BoxCup earns place on the national calendar thanks to a superb debut year for the event as Griffin expects big growth in 2016  nathan kelly

sport@dublingazette.com

AFTER a highly promising baptism in 2015, Esker Boxing Club’s All-Female BoxCup looks set to be a major event on the Irish amateur boxing calendar in 2016.

The event has been added to the IABA’s official event calendar for the year which will see it attract a new level of interest and attention in Ireland and further afield. The event will take place in the Colaiste Phadraig CBS Sports Hall in Lucan from October 7-9.

Coach at Esker BC Ed Griffin hailed the importance of the competition being backed by the IABA when asked by GazetteSport.

“To have it on the official calendar is fantastic,” he said. “We had around 160 take part in 2015 but I’d expect to have around 300 in this year’s edition.”

For such a relatively new club, Esker have quickly created a network of friends all over the boxing world, using every opportunity that a trip overseas brings to make connections, which Griffin explained will benefit the 2016 BoxCup. “We had a couple of girls on the Dublin team that competed at the Sweden BoxCup in November, which is a massive competition,” he said. “Conversations were had there and it’s likely that clubs from Sweden, Denmark, England, France, Germany and the Netherlands

will travel over in October.”

Competitors may even travel from further afield, with Griffin added: “We have a contact in a Canadian club which opened discussions,” he said. “From that, I’m now in contact with the Canadian National Federation who are hoping to send a representative squad over.

“We’ve some members travelling to Pittsburgh for a tournament for St Patrick’s Day with Drimnagh Boxing Club so we’d be hoping to send an invitation over with them.”

Away from the BoxCup, the search for a permanent premises for the club goes on. Training is back in St Anne’s school but the club coach is confident, eventually, a permanent home will be found.

“I don’t want to get to drawn on it; we have a detailed plan of what we need,” he said. “We just need a site and a bit of help from the council.

“We’ve a host of letters from people backing us, Special Olympics Ireland, Lucan Community Games, the guards, the IABA and plenty more. I’m sure we’ll get there soon enough.”

The club are growing all the time with a website set to be launched next month. As expansion occurs, the club are actively looking for potential sponsors.

Whether it be a website sponsor or if someone would like to sponsor one of the several trophies at this year’s BoxCup, contact Ed Griffin on shandygriffin@hotmail.com.