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Residents living in fear as snag list still unfixed Frustration at The Paddocks as wait for action on estate defects continues

 MARK O’BRIEN ADAMSTOWN residents say they fear for their safety as defects in their apartment building have not been addressed in 10 years.

Because snags and defects at The Paddocks

have not been attended to, their building does not have a fire safety certificate, and now homeowners fear they will be forced to foot the bill for any repairs.

Resident Leyla Simsek told The Gazette: “We’re 10 years into an estate and

[neither] common areas nor snags and defects have been completed.

“There’s been no schedule of programmes given to owners to say when these snags and defects are going to start.

“I need to know that my

home is safe and the environment that my children are growing up in is safe.”

A spokesperson for receivers Grant Thornton said they would not be commenting on the issue.

Full Story on Page 2

2 LUCAN GAZETTE 22 June 2017

ADAMSTOWN | 10-YEAR DELAY IN RECTIFYING SNAGS AND DEFECTS

Safety fears over delayed works at The Paddocks  MARK O’BRIEN

RESIDENTS of an Adamstown estate say they fear for their safety because snags and defects have not been completed over 10 years since the properties were built.

Homeowners in The Paddocks say they still have not been told when this work will take place.

Resident Leyla Simsek told The Gazette: “We’re 10 years into an estate and common areas nor snags and defects have been completed.

“There’s been no schedule of programmes given to owners to say when these snags and defects are going to start.”

The Paddocks were originally built and sold

Part of the sprawling Paddocks estate. Picture: Google Maps

by Maplewood Developments.

The problems arose for residents of The Paddocks

when Maplewood ran in to difficulty during the economic downturn.

Nama took over Maple-

wood’s loans in December 2010 before it went into liquidation in 2012.

Grant Thornton were appointed as receivers and took control of Tree Tops, the Owners’ Management Company (OMC) of The Paddocks.

Due to Maplewood going in to liquidation, the snags and defects have not been rectified and the common areas – such as hallways – have not been handed over to the OMC. Under the Multi-Unit Developments (MUD) Act 2011, developers must transfer common areas within six months of completion of a build.

However, the act does not provide for any sanctions if this deadline is not met.

Because the snags and defects have not been attended to, the building does not have a fire safety certificate and residents are now fearful that they will face a similar situation to that faced by residents of the Beacon South Quarter in Sandyford.

Residents of the Beacon South Quarter recently voted to pay €10 million into a sinking fund to pay to fix fire safety and other structural defects after Dublin Fire Brigade told them they would be

forced to take legal action if the work was not carried out.

Residents of The Paddocks recently discovered that a lump sum was taken out of their sinking fund by the management company with no explanation.

“We haven’t been told how it’s been spent, where it’s gone or what it’s been used for,” said Leyla.

“We only have €70,000 in the sinking fund whereas we had €240,000.

“Now we’re left with €70,000 yet every year the sinking fund is supposed to grow, it doesn’t decrease, so this could lead to huge implications for us if anything was to happen.”

Leyla said that residents have sought mediation with Grant Thornton in an attempt to resolve the issues but so far this request has been denied.

“The reason I started this was for transparency,” she said.

“I’m a homeowner, I have a mortgage, I have a family.

“I need to know that my home is safe and the environment that my children are growing up in is safe.”

A spokesperson for Grant Thornton said they would not be commenting on the issue.

FASTNews

Taking a spin to the newly refurbished Maxol station SPIN 1038’s Hanna O’Shea joined cyclists Michael Fennell and Peter Griffin as they took a moment to help celebrate the opening of the newly refurbished Maxol station at Lucan Road.

A special day was arranged for all the community and motorists to enjoy, with the station’s extensive €560,000 refurbishment bringing the welcome creation of 20 new jobs to the area, and also bumping up employment at the busy station to 35 jobs.

Apart from the radio crew giving out plenty of prizes and sunny banter on the forecourt, customers also tucked into some tasty Freshly Chopped fare inside, while also savouring some of Kanoodle’s delicious range of authentic Asian food.

St Raphael’s annual fete ST RAPHAEL’S will hold their annual fete on Sunday, July 2. They are looking for donations of clothing, bric-a-brac, toys, CDs, DVDs , books and small items of furniture. Donations can be dropped to St. Raphael’s from Thursday, June 15 between 7pm and 9pm.

Beds and soft furnishing cannot be accepted.

The Celbridge school is part of Saint John of God Liffey Region Community Services.

They provide a range of day, educational, residential and respite services for over 850 children and adults with intellectual disability, with services based in North Kildare and South West Dublin.

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

22 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 3

CHARITY | NIGHT FOR BRAVE DUBLIN GIRL BATTLING RARE DISORDER

Help Daisy, 4, have a life filled with joy  SYLVIA POWNALL HUGE crowds are expected at a fundraiser in Tallaght next week for brave fouryear-old Daisy McDonald.

Daisy suffers from a rare genetic neurological disorder known as Retts Syndrome and the support event takes place in the Kiltipper Bar and Cafe Cafe.

The condition requires her to be on a ventilator for up to 22 hours a day to help her breathe.

Daisy is non-verbal, does not have the use of her hands, is unable to sit unaided or walk, and is tube-fed.

The Bohernabreena girl’s

mum, Lynn, said that despite the daily struggle Daisy faces battling Retts she is an “adorable little girl” with a dazzling smile.

She added: “She suffers daily seizures and extreme irritability along with body spasms that can be excruciatingly painful, and yet she remains the cutest, bravest most adorable little girl with a heart and smile to melt the toughest of the tough.”

Daisy’s older sister Ellie (9, left) is currently Tallaght’s Heart of Gold title holder – an award which was presented to her for all she does for her little sister.

Daisy’s condition has

deteriorated – so her family have started a bucket list to fill her short life with memories, from butterfly farms to hot air balloon rides.

They also hope to fund an outdoor unit to store her medical equipment and supplies so she can have space for a sensory area when she is allowed home from hospital.

Lynn said: “We want to help her achieve and experience as much beauty, joy and excitement as possible in her short little life. Time is precious from here on in.”

The Daisy’s Days benefit night is at 8pm on Wednesday, June 28.

Your €10 could make a huge difference TICKETS for the fundraiser ( just €10) can be purchased on the Daisy’s Days Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/search/ top/?q=daisy%27s%20days). To donate to the fund, see Daisy’s Days on Gofundme.com, at: https://www.gofundme.com/daisys-days.

4 LUCAN GAZETTE 22 June 2017

HEALTH | PAINFUL DIAGNOSIS PROMPTS LOCAL TO MAKE SOME POSITIVE CHANGES

Linda won’t let her illness stop her from helping  MARK O’BRIEN BEING diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a life-changing experience, but one Lucan woman has strived to channel her diagnosis in a positive direction.

Finnstown Priory resident Linda Allen was diagnosed with RA in 2006 when she was just 34 years old.

She told The Gazette that the diagnosis made her re-evaluate her life and that, in spite of the

difficulties she faces, she has made positive changes in her life.

She said: “I was a workaholic and it kind of made me look at my life and what’s important. I did really change and have evolved.”

RA is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system – which normally protects its health by attacking foreign substances like bacteria and viruses – mistakenly attacks the joints.

This creates inflamma-

tion that causes the tissue that lines the inside of joints (the synovium) to thicken, resulting in swelling and pain in and around the joints.

T here are around 40,000 people living with RA in Ireland.

Arthritis Ireland recently launched their RA NaRAtive – the first ever survey of people living with RA in Ireland.

The survey found that the vast majority of those living with RA would like to reduce their pain.

FASTNews

Fitzgerald holds on to Tanaiste role in Cabinet

COURTS | MAN’S SENTENCING ADJOURNED

DUBLIN Mid-West TD Frances Fitzgerald has been appointed as Minister for Enterprise and Innovation.

Ms Fitzgerald was appointed to her new role last week by new Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and will also continue in her role as Tanaiste.

She previously served as Minister for Justice and Equality.

In a statement following her appointment, she said: “I am proud and honoured to be appointed Tanaiste and Minister for Enterprise and Innovation this week by the new Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar.

“I am particularly pleased to accept this new portfolio, which, at its core is about creating opportunity. I look forward to continuing my work for Lucan as your local TD and minister.”

A MAN due to be sentenced for beating his ex-girlfriend has had his case adjourned after the judge received an anonymous letter suggesting that the accused should be “sent away for life”.

At a sentencing hearing last March, the Central Criminal Court heard the 30-year-old woman woke up in her bed to find Robert Maguire (34) standing over her and spitting on her.

He threatened to kill her before kicking her in the genitals and beating her into unconsciousness as her children screamed at the bedroom door.

Mr Justice Paul Butler previously adjourned the case, having heard the evidence. He ordered a probation report after Michael O’Higgins SC, defending, submitted that he be assessed for community service.

The judge said at the time that the seeking of a community service report should not be been seen as an indication of his final intentions.

Maguire, of Colthurst Gardens, Hunting Glen, Lucan pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and false imprisonment in the woman’s Dublin home on January 14, 2012.

Mr Justice Butler said that he noticed

THE 180th Lucan Scout Group are seeking feedback from the community on how best to develop the Bush Centre in Balgaddy.

The Bush Centre was gifted to the group by Lucan South parish earlier this year.

The scouts were recently awarded €50,000 under the Community Initiative Scheme to help them redevelop the centre.

The centre is almost 30-years-old and is in need of refurbishment in order to turn it into a suitable scout den that the group hopes will be of benefit to the entire community.

The group are seeking the public’s help to determine what work is required for the centre.

To participate in the survey, see https:// www.surveymonkey. com/r/PP9ZKPX

This can be done with medication, but exercise is also a big factor in managing the condition.

Linda said that exercise and a proper diet are vital to managing the condition. “I had been exercising when I was younger, then got in to the job and studying, so the diet went out the window and exercise went out the window,” she said.

Linda did courses with Arthritis Ireland to learn how to manage her pain and eventually trained as a

Linda Allen and Tim O’Sullivan launching the results of the RA NarRAtive initiative – a survey of people living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Ireland

yoga instructor. Now she’s giving back by teaching yoga to other RA sufferers.

She said that it has been hugely rewarding to be able to help fellow sufferers who come to her classes. “It’s been great and the difference in them [her yoga students], I have

to say it was really helping them.”

Her Linda’s yoga classes for people suffering with RA will resume in the Ballyfermot Community Centre from September.

Anyone wishing to attend can email Linda at lindaallen424@gmail.com.

the Scouts Anonymous letter Help plan for works a concern for judge there was a lot of publicity surrounding the case in March.

He commented that he had to put the case back for a probation report because the defence team had asked him to consider community service and he couldn’t consider that without an assessment by the Probation Service.

The judge said he also received an anonymous letter from a member of the public “more or less telling me what a terrible person the accused is”.

Mr Justice Butler told Mr O’Higgins to consider the letter. The judge said it put him in “a very difficult position” and advised counsel to get instructions from his client as to whether he wanted him to continue presiding over the case.

Grainne O’Neill BL, prosecuting, said she had considered the letter and had taken an instruction from the DPP, which felt there was no reason why Mr Justice Butler couldn’t continue to deal with the case.

The judge accepted that but said the defence needed time to consider its position. He remanded Maguire on continuing bail to July 3 next for mention.

22 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 5

6 LUCAN GAZETTE 22 June 2017

Out and About

Brenda Hartely

Aldrin Fantonai

Feeding time Aldrin Fantonai

Photo fanatics M Group photo starting out at the Saltees

EMBERS of the Palmerstown Camera Club went on their annual trip to the Saltee islands in Kilmore Co Wexford which consisted of the Great Saltee and the Little Saltee. These islands are situated 5km off the coast of Wexford. The Saltees are a haven for an array of wild birds including puffins, gannets, gulls, manx and shearwaters. This was a chance for the members to get up close and personal with the birds. A great number of photographs were taken of the birds in their natural habitat and the trip was very successful for all.

Nina Butler

22 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 7

8 LUCAN GAZETTE 22 June 2017

COMMUNITY | OUTGOING MAYOR ON HOW THE COUNTY IS SLOWLY CHANGING FOR THE BETTER

‘I hope my legacy will see a more inclusive county’ THE outgoing Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Guss O’Connell (Ind), talks to The Gazette about a year of plenty of highs, some lows, and his pleasure at serving the people and county colleagues.

WHAT’S it like to be Mayor? Wonderful!

In a short time I will probably look back with a better perspective but, for a start, the role of Mayor in South Dublin is very much tied into representing, as first citizen, all people across all communities.

When honoured by my peers to become Mayor last June, I said I would focus on “community”, and celebrate our community, and I have endeavoured to attend as many events as possible.

The challenge I faced when I was elected Mayor,

and which we all face and will continue to face, is to build an inclusive and fair society.

Judged by the ideals of the 1916 Proclamation, we have a woefully unequal society in Ireland.

We have a housing emergency that I have tried to highlight, and I am happy that our [council] housing section are working flatout and using absolutely

every option available to provide more homes, but I feel totally frustrated at the inadequacy of the national response.

South Dublin has changed radically since I was first elected as a councillor in 1991. Today, we have people from some 120 different nationalities residing in our county – that represents a fair diversity!

As Mayor, I have no special powers; however, I have been able to encourage and support the commitment of our very active social inclusion unit in building an inclusive society.

It has become obvious to me since becoming Mayor, witnessing at firsthand what is going on in South Dublin County, that we are not just embracing diversity but are facilitating different cultures and traditions to blend with and enrich our ancient Celtic culture.

Inclusive Ireland On June 25, we have the first ever “Flavours of South Dublin” International Food Festival in Rathfarnam Castle that will further bolster that objective. I hope that my time as Mayor will further a more inclusive and integrated Ireland.

I have been privileged to attend many events organised by many minority ethnic groups, and none more so than Traveller Pride Week.

I am very appreciative of the support of my fellow councillors for my proposal to establish a Traveller Community Forum in our county where Travellers can celebrate and promote those interests that are special to their heritage, culture and identity.

I hope that a better

Outgoing Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Guss O’Connell (Ind)

understanding between the Traveller and settled communities will be one of my legacies.

In support of the council’s community section with its dedicated workers, I have endeavoured to empower the many voluntary and communitybased groups and organisations in this county, who do such tremendous and valuable work.

I have tried to address the democratic deficit in society by providing a Mayor’s Conference in the Civic Stadium, to explore how the People’s Participative Network, elected councillors and the council executive can work more collaboratively where we all “Put People First”. I hope that this seed will grow and produce fruit!

Similarly, I was delighted to launch the “€300K Have Your Say” participative budgeting pilot for the Lucan-Palmerstown elec-

toral area.

When the results were announced in the Clarion Hotel, history was made: for the first time in Ireland the people had actively participated in deciding a council budget.

I hope that this groundbreaking initiative will lead to real involvement in future years by the citizens of South Dublin county on the priorities they identify for their neighbourhood.

I have been very active with the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) in promoting and supporting jobs.

Enterprise awards In addition to winning national awards, the LEO – in collaboration with the South Dublin Chamber of Commerce – held a hugely successful Enterprise Awards event and brought an awareness of the tourism opportunities in our county to new heights.

This includes a fiveyear strategy and a feasi-

bility study that includes how the flagship Dublin Mountains can be both promoted and conserved for future generations.

Also, a Liffey Blueway and restoration of “the Silver Bridge” from Waterstown Park to Farmleigh are being pursued, and the wonderful Clondalkin Round Tower and Gardens tourist attraction is ready to receive its first visitors.

I have tried to support the Irish language and tradition, highlighting the role of Aras Chronain with the first ever Ceili Mere (or Mayor’s Ceili) on St Patrick’s night in this wonderful setting. I hope this becomes an annual event.

In conclusion, but by no means least, as Mayor I would have received a lot of requests from desperate members of the public.

No, I was and am never too busy to try and help – I have tried to help, and apologise to those I failed.

Staff respect the office of Mayor and do their best to help, so if you were disappointed, it’s because nothing could be done.

That is the most frustrating and depressing part of being Mayor – you get to see the huge inadequacies in our society, in our world.

I have never subscribed to “stroke politics” and so I make no apology for not “getting things for my area” (although some have said: “Why can’t you – you’re the Mayor”).

People are deserving on the merits of their case, and my contribution to ‘New Politics’ is to live by that ethos.

The reward for the people of my own area is “they put me there to be fair and hardworking”. I have tried as Mayor to do just that.

Thank you for the opportunity.

22 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 9

10 GAZETTE 22 June 2017

Out and About Rob Feeney, Michelle McCarthy & Dan Lee

Rob Feeney, Michelle McCarthy and Dan Lee

Rachel Ryan and Sarah Magliocco

WIN €500 Abi Moran, Melissa Byrne and Nicola Halloran. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

No joke – comedy fest will be a hoot

Dave Treacy, Evan Doherty and Jessica McGurk

voucher from

Jennifer Gleedaon & Donnchadh Boyle

T

Ciara Spain and Alice Higgins

HE Odeon bar played host to a busy launch of the upcoming Vodafone Comedy Festival 2017, which saw lots of comedy fans gather to get details of the upcoming line-up.

More than 100 acts from Ireland and further afield will be taking to the Iveagh Gardens for four nights in late July (27th-30th), with tickets already going fast for the fun-filled line-up that includes old favourites such as Tommy Tiernan, Al Porter and and Dara O’Briain, and some newer faces including Jim Elliot, Alison Spittle and Enya Martin.

For further information and the full line-up of festival events, see vodafonecomedyfestival.com.

Tile Merchant is Ireland’s newest retail experience for the home owner in Dublin. Visit us in our 8,000 sq ft showroom in Ballymount.

Tiles - Stone - Wood - Paving - Bathrooms For more details see www.TileMerchant.ie or call 01-4866330 TO be in with a chance of winning this amazing prize, simply answer this question: Where is Tile Merchant’s recently opened 8,000 sq ft showroom located?

Email your answer (along with your contact details) to: competitions@dublingazette.com Full details available on our Facebook page or visit dublingazette.com

Lucy Maye Bradshaw

Danielle Hayes and Adam Sherry

22 June 2017 GAZETTE 11

Sally Anne Clarke Sharon McGowan and Sandra Mallon. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Berry interesting fare at cook-off T

HE onlookers watching food being prepared at Michelin-starred l’Ecrivain restaurant were also hungry for information as Kellogg’s GAA Cul Camps kicked off for summer, with the Breakfast Cook-Off challenge bringing together some well-known faces and GAA stars to whip up some healthy fare. The event was a way to emphasises the importance of healthy, nutritious easting for children, with the Kellogg’s GAA Cul Camps also encouraging kids to be physically active during the school holidays. Kellogg’s products were key parts of the four nutritious dishes being prepared, which went far beyond old favourites like Rice Krispie Squares.

Niamh Devereux and Niamh Foran

Sybil Mulcahy and Edward Hayden

Mayo footballer Lee Keegan and Tipperary hurler Seamus Callanan

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 22 June 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS

DNG Stillorgan’s Dempsey lands IPAV role

BRIAN Dempsey, Partner at DNG Stillorgan, is the new President of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers & Valuers.

Brian, pictured here with Minister for Jobs Mary Mitchell O’Connor and IPAV chief Pat Davitt assumed the role at the organisation’s 47th AGM and annual conference held at the Powerscourt Hotel.

Brian, who holds an Honours Degree in the Built Environment from the University of Glamorgan, says he wants to prioritise growth in IPAV’s education programmes during his term of office so that those within the profession or looking to join it “can be in a position to offer the very best value to consumers and enterprises”.

SPACE@DUBLINBIC | SHARED OFFICE FACILITY CAN FIT 200 ENTREPRENEURS

New co-work space to ease rent pressure on start-ups DUBLIN Business Innovation Centre has announced the opening of its new start-up hub as an affordable office solution for entrepreneurs, freelancers and start-ups.

Situated on the first and second floors of 61 Dawson Street, the co-working facility is called Space@ DublinBIC and it has capacity for in excess of 200 people.

Space@DublinBIC has been designed to offer a choice of office options for those facing low availability of office space in Dublin and soaring prices.

Speaking about the benefits of co-working in the city, Michael Culligan, CEO, Dublin BIC said: “Having a dedicated space from which to work and conduct business is vital for companies in their early stages.

“But in a city in which only about 3% of office space is vacant and prices are reaching record highs again, entrepreneurs and freelancers are finding themselves unable to

access office space from which they can hire talent, scale and access customers easily.”

S p a c e @ D u b l i n BIC offers clients a dedicated desk for €375 per month or a hotdesk for €200 per month. A five-day hotdesk pass costs just €59.

Companies and entre---------------------------------------------

‘Having a space from which to work and conduct business is vital for companies in their early stages’

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

Dublin BIC’s Michael Culligan

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

preneurs will have access to 1GB Wi-Fi, an on-site cafe, storage facilities and meeting rooms. Space is holding an open day each Thursday until the end of June to give potential coworkers the opportunity to test it for a day.

To find out more visit http://dublinbic.ie/ourservices/space/

DCU’s prestigious Business School gets Small Business Charter status DCU Business School is the first Irish university to be awarded Small Business Charter status by the Chartered Association of Business Schools.

The Small Business Charter recognises world-class business schools that play an effective role in supporting SMEs, student entrepreneurship and economic development.

The award is in recognition of the

North American spending here up on last year

effective role DCU plays in supporting the development of small- and medium-sized businesses in Ireland and promoting entrepreneurship.

Executive Dean of DCU Business School Prof Anne Sinnott said: “We are honoured to accept this award in recognition of the important role DCU Business School plays in supporting businesses and entrepreneurs.”

CSO Tourism and Travel statistics for the first quarter of 2017 show that spending in Ireland by North American visitors was up 5.6% on the same period in 2016. The figures are based on detailed surveys of overseas visitors and the CSO release also contains detailed information on expenditure, purpose of visit, and bednights.

New monthly award launched to recognise the excellence and achievements of business leaders

A NEW monthly award to mark excellence and outstanding achievement among leaders of Irish businesses has been launched.

The inaugural Irish Times Business Person of the Month Award, in association with KPMG, will start next month with the announcement of the June winner.

The awards will be open to Irish business leaders both at home and abroad, as well as international executives leading major companies in Ireland.

For most of us in our working environments, dressing smartly is probably best

There’s no uniform way to dress – but ‘smartly’ is the best YOUR alarm goes off at 6am. You groggily get out of bed, brush your teeth, have a cup of tea, and then walk back up to your wardrobe.

You fling open the doors, only to discover you have no idea what to wear! Fear not. We’ve got you covered ...

The Interview Every office will have its own dress code, but you probably won’t be familiar with the ins and outs of the dress code until you actually start working there. When in doubt, go with a corporate dress code.

Corporate Environment What’s a corporate dress code, you may ask? This is the standard business suit in a conser vative colour.

You want to look smart and put together.

This look will give you an air of confidence and professionalism.

Business Casual Whether your corporate office has a “Casual Friday” or you work in Are you dressed for success? If you’re interested in temping or want to talk to someone about your career, contact RecruitmentPlus at 01 2788 610, or also see www.recruitmentplus.ie.

a more relaxed atmosphere, you will come across the business casual dress code.

The rules are a bit more relaxed, but there still are rules. Make sure your clothing is in good order- no rips or stains.

Usually business casual means no jeans or t-shirts. Ties are optional for men.

Uniform It’s easy to get dressed when your job requires you wearing a uniform – whether you work in law enforcement, health care or hospitality.

Even so, you still need to make sure you have the correct uniform components and that they are clean and in good condition.

22 June 2017 GAZETTE 13

THE RETURN

OF ONCE P16

GAMING’S BEST YEAR EVER P25

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



GAZETTE

PEUGEOT’S SUV ASSAULT P22

CHARITY CLIMB: TV STAR JOINS ALLIANZ STAFF TO RAISE €50K FOR ALZHEIMER’S

Karl’s on top of the world after four-peaks challenge

EUROPE’S TOP BOWLERS ROLL INTO TOWN FOR PRESTIGIOUS TENPIN EVENT

 DARRAGH McKIERNAN

 JASON BYRNES

OPERATION Transformation star Karl Henry has just completed the challenge of a lifetime, leading 18 staff members from Allianz up four mountains in three days, hiking a total of 3,559 metres.

The challenge was all in aid of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland and the team are just shy of hitting their €50,000 target – and they need your help to get over the line.

The team begin their Four Peaks Challenge on Friday morning in Co Kerry, hiking 1,038 metres to the top of Ireland’s highest peak Carrauntoohil. On Saturday the team, led by Karl, tackled the 814 metre tall Mweelrea in Co. Mayo.

Sunday saw the group facing the toughest challenge of the weekend with a hike up twin ascents; the 850 metre trek up Slieve Donard in Co. Down before a 925 metre walk up Lug na Quilla in Co. Wicklow.

The group of 18 Allianz workers were all novice hillwalkers before taking on the challenge, but hard work and dedication meant they were able to brave the elements and complete the challenge.

He told The Gazette this

BOWLING enthusiasts from all over Europe will roll in to town next week for the European Senior Bowling Championships.

The 26th annual event takes place between June 25th and July 1st, with various tenpin bowling centres across Dublin coming together to host the prestigious event.

Over 950 players and guests from 24 countries, including Norway, Israel and Denmark have registered for the championships and they will be welcomed to five different bowling centres, Leisureplex Stillorgan, Coolock, Charlestown, Blanchardstown and ALSAA Bowl.

All five bowling centres, along with the ESBC 2017 organising committee, are encouraging people to make the trip to their local centre during the week of action and help make the ESBC Dublin 2017 a spectacular and event for all those competitors making the trip.

All centres will be open to the public for the entire week, so get down and see just how magnificent an event the ESBC and tenpin bowling really is!

Karl with his labradoodle Sophie & the team from Allianz. You can still donate at http://allianzireland.4peakschallenge.everydayhero.do

week: “‘The Four Peaks Challenge was a truly fantastic experience over this beautiful sunny weekend.

“The sun shone down on us as we all climbed and discovered the four highest peaks in Ireland in only three days.

“The climbs were that extra bit tougher with the

heat, but through hard work, dedication, team work and of course lots of water we made it!

“It was a really great way to explore some stunning parts of our country and the team all really bonded.

“There were a few sore legs returning back to Dublin on Sunday eve-

ning but it was a weekend to remember. I’m delighted to say that we are well on our way to hitting our €50,000 target.

“You can still donate to help us raise funds for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland and reach our target.”

The aim of the challenge was to raise €50,000 for

the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, a charity of huge importance to Karl personally.

He added: “It was just a matter of waiting for the right charity to come along. When the Alzheimer Society was mentioned, I jumped at the chance..

“My own grandmother

battled with the condition so it was something I had a connection to, so I was delighted to help.”

The team have raised over €48,000 so far, sending them well on their way to going above and beyond their target and providing much needed funds for sufferers of Alzheimer’s.

GAZETTE

14 GAZETTE 22 June 2017

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

BIG TODDLE FOR BARNARDOS: WILL YOUR TOT BE ONE OF 2,OOO MUNCHKINS MARCHING FOR CHARITY? THE ANNUAL BIG TODDLE FOR BARNARDOS HAS BEEN LAUNCHED WITH THE THEME: PIRATES... ARRRRR ME CUTIES! The Big Toddle will see 11,682 toddlers in Dublin take up the challenge to teeter a half-mile sponsored walk and support the vital work that Barnardos does with more than 14,100 children and families across Ireland.

A Big Toddle can be held anywhere, anytime during this month.

Barnardos director of fundraising Mary Gamble said: “It’s so heartening to see little ones across the country take part to raise vital funds and awareness – it is often their first ever fundraising event and a great way to show them how they can help other little boys and girls.”

Childcare groups and families can register for the Big Toddle at www. barnardos.ie/ bigtoddle.

IBTS CALLS ON DUBLINERS TO GIVE BLOOD THIS SUMMER THE Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) is urging people to make a special effort to give blood over the coming weeks as their summer campaign gets under way.

Some of the objectives of this year’s campaign – which was launched last week by RTE’s Joe Duffy, with help from volunteers from the Dublin Fire Brigade to coincide with International Blood Donor Day – include encouraging

everyone to strengthen the emergency preparedness of health services in their community by donating blood. The campaign is also a way for the IBTS to celebrate and thank individuals who donate blood regularly, and to encourage young people to become new donors.

IBTS operations director Paul McKinney said: “This is the beginning of the summer holiday period, which usually present difficulties in sustaining the blood supply as donations decline.

“Household routines change during this time with exams and preparations for holidays pushing the intention to donate into the background.

“We’re asking donors not to forget the patient who needs blood by giving blood before you take that well-earned holiday.”

THE MOTHER OF ALL PRIDE BLOCK PARTIES IS COMING TO TOWN MOTHER are teaming up with Smirnoff on Saturday to host one Mother of a Pride Block Party Set to be their biggest party of 2017, Mother are loading up the glitter cannon, stocking the bars and re-building their Pride Festival site in the grounds of the Tivoli Theatre This year, there’ll be a massive main stage, bars and a selection of food stalls as well as bespoke interactive installations.

Kicking off the line-up is Panti Bliss along with the Mother DJs. Choice Music Prize-nominated electronic artist Daithi will also take to the stage.

Ten-time platinum-selling Swedish recording artist Loreen will also perform on the day. Charting at No 1 in 17 countries, Loreen is famous for her Eurovision smash hit, Euphoria.

Tickets are on sale now from eventbrite.ie. Visit facebook.com/motherdublin to find out more.

HEARS TO ALL THE SOUND LADS AT SPECSAVERS TALLAGHT SPECSAVERS Tallaght will host the Specsavers Hearing Van on Tuesday 21 and Wednesday 22 June near the west car park at the Square centre.

Shiver me toddlers Little pirates Meghan Pertherbridge and Malaci McUtha map out the route of their Big Toddle. Picture: Patrick Bolger

DFB’s Linda Scully and Caroline Grace with RTE’s Joe Duffy at the launch Listening is key to hotelier Francis Brennan’s business. Picture: Leon Farrell

of Blood Donor Day. Picture: Maxwells

The hearing van will be in situ from 10am each day, with Specsavers’ professional team on hand for consultations and to answer any hearing or optical queries that locals may have.

To raise awareness of the importance of hearing health, TV personality Francis Brennan recently launched Specsavers Sound Check Ireland 2017 – a campaign which encourages Irish adults to take a more proactive approach to their hearing health.

Audiologist at Specsavers Tallaght, Michael McComish, said: “Specsavers recommends that those over the age of 55 should have their hearing tested every two years.”

For further information on the hearing offering available at Specsavers Tallaght, pop by the hearing van or make an appointment at: https://www.specsavers.ie/stores/tallaght.

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22 June 2017 GAZETTE 17

DUBLINLIFE

N O S ’ T A H W

E D I U G S T N E EV with JAMES HENDICOTT

Body & Soul

Fashionable festival with a quirky selection of colourful art and theatre events on top of its main musical offerings, Body & Soul takes place in Ballinlough Castle, Co Meath, and stars Metronomy, Bonobo, Lambchop and the sharp rhymes of Sleaford Mods.

June 23-25.

Room

Emma O’Donoghue’s hauntingly wonderful book – which explores the raising of a child in a single room whilst her mother suffers torturous abuse, all through the naive eyes of the child - launches at the Abbey Theatre on June 23 and runs until November.

ROOM AT THE ABBEY

Tattoo Art Expo

The second edition of this body art exhibition comes to the Davenport Hotel for the weekend, featuring (as well as the obvious abundance of ink) live performances, DJs and alternative models. June 24-25.

MUSIC  JAMES HENDICOTT HAVING been a hit movie and a startlingly successful Broadway show, Once’s return to what seems its spiritual home – Dublin’s Olympia Theatre – is a big one, especially with much of the cast renewed, and what’s become a big, global name to live up to.

Once is both unique, and uniquely Irish. With the lead characters played by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova in the hit movie version, the play riffs off a similar theme, taking music from the city’s streets and capturing its textures and nuance on stage.

There are some subtle touches: an on-stage bar; the ‘non-acting’ role of the characters in providing musical entertainment before the main performance gets underway, and a relatively unscripted style that makes no two performances quite the same.

Phelim Drew – who’s featured in movies including

The Commitments, Angela’s Ashes and King Arthur – has a lifelong connection with Irish music through his father, Dubliners star Ronnie Drew.

He’s long since established as a name in his own right, however, and the return of Once this summer also marks his return to the role of Billy.

“It’s a different cast – an all-Irish one – and the chemistry has changed considerably,” Drew told The Gazette as rehearsals for the latest run got under way.

“Six new people means a very fresh start, and they’re all amazing musicians and actors, so we’re flying through it. Brian Gilligan, who’s playing Guy, has a lovely quality in that role, which is great. It’s a difficult play to cast, because a lot of the cast – as well as being really stand-out

actors – have to be great singers and guitar players, and it’s difficult to tick all those boxes. That makes Once special in its own way; this time around we have a really great cast.”

“Glen [Hansard] is the embodiment of someone who has worked so hard to get from the streets of Dublin to being idolised abroad,” Drew says of The Frames man’s role in the production, with Hansard having starred in the hit movie.

“I went to see him play in Vicar Street recently and it was just stunning. It’s hard to produce something of

that quality, but we’re doing everything we can to emulate it.”

Drew himself has a long history with the Olympia, with The Dubliners having traditionally played at the venue once a year for a large part of their career, and naturally, Phelim regularly in the audience.

“I’ve played on most Dublin theatre stages

over the years, but it’s always highly emotional on

stage at the Olympia,” he explains.

“Singing ‘The Auld Triangle’ with Glen [Hansard] after Once last time around was really special. I used to go in as a child every summer,when my dad played the big summer shows, and even got to know the staff, some of whom are still there. So it really means something to me.

“There’s not as much pressure on the rehearsals for me this time around,” Drew goes on to admit. “There’s never as much pressure with the basics like getting the lines when you’ve done a show before.

“Last year there was an American director doing it who really wanted to re-examine the play, and that brought its own pressures. It can be hard to forget the previous times.

“Des Kennedy, who’s directing this time around, makes it feel comfortable, happy and makes us feel released as actors despite the obvious pressure to get things right.

“There’s this incredible repertoire of

The cast of Once rehearse ahead of their run at the Olympia

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songs to learn, about 20, plus three more to do before the show every night, and those three don’t stay the same. It’s quite a big undertaking, and there are no real shortcuts.”

Speaking of the show’s most playful quirk, the on-stage bar, Drew outlines how it fits into the feel of the play.

“It’s like walking into a Temple Bar pub, it really mimics that atmosphere,” he explains. “It really eases us and the audience into the show, and people just accept it.

“It’s like watching a good film, you forget you’re watching a movie and suspend your disbelief. People can be a bit blown away but they’ve been very generous and giving in terms of space and enjoyment with the bar.”

On his own return, Drew says “I’ve been lucky, having one good project after another. Ireland being Ireland, for actors, stage is your bread and butter, and while I’ve done a bit of film and TV, it’s a different kind of thing.

“I’m a freelance actor, and such as it is, you’re very rarely in a position to choose your projects. You’re lucky enough to be cast; very few actors have any power overwhat they actually do. If you like what you’re doing, that’s normally a bonus.

“So I’m very lucky to get roles like this that I do really enjoy.”

On his own role, Drew describes his character Billy as “obsessive

Dublin Pride Week

The highlight of Pride Week, the Pride parade will weave its colourful pathway down O’Connell Street and along the quays as Dublin’s LGBTQ community come out to party. The theme of this year’s parade, kicking off on midday on June 24, is ‘Find Your Inner Hero’.

Green Day

American pop-punkers bring what’s always been a bold, brash and entertaining live show to Kilmainham Hospital on June 29, with support from ska-punk mainstays Rancid. The show is sold out, though late production tickets do often become available.

Dublin Flea Market

The biggest of their monthly rotation of Sunday markets spills out of Dublin Food Co-Op on to Newmarket Square, where you can expect to find tents full of all sorts of second-hand treasures, as well as some of the best coffee in the city. June 25.

The Positive Touch album launch

Launching the second in a series of compilations aimed at raising money for charity, ‘The Positive Touch’ will feature tracks

by Paddy Casey, Mundy, Cry Monster Cry, Gavin Glass, The Devlins and many more, and launches at The Workman’s Club on June 29.

Zero Waste Festival

Talks, workshops, screenings, info stands, a market and a swap-shop all form part of this green-leaning event at CIE Hall in Inchicore, which hopes to introduce every new attendee to some fresh ideas on waste reduction. June 25.

New album of the week

Imagine Dragons - Evolve. Following a hiatus for the American act after they made a huge splash with their second album ‘Smoke + Mirrors’, they return with a literally named album this third release is said to signal a sea change in their sound.

Home Once more

Phelim Drew on the return of a uniquely Dublin story to its rightful home

and nerdy – he seems l i ke t h e kind of guy who in owning a music shop, might know the serial number of every instrument. I’m not very nerdy, but like him, I’m definitely quite unhinged! He doesn’t give up, and he has a big heart.

“Our role, ultimately, is to communicate stories to an audience,” Drew concludes.

“Whether they’re American, Chinese or Irish, you can feel when an audience is with you, you get that dynamic on the stage. That’s when things really shine through. Without the audience, you don’t have that connection.”

 Once returns to the Olympia on June 30 and will run until August 26

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DUBLINLIFE

STYLE

Megan Mcgloughlin with her work Touch Taste Tremble

Buse Kanliklic with her work, Disposition

Pictured at the opening of the National College of Art and Design’s NCAD 2017 Show was textile and surface

Spotlight on NCAD Adam McGrane with his piece, Working from Rubble

designer Tanya Byrne with her work Suck it and see. Pictures: Marc O’Sullivan

 EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

THIS year’s NCAD show highlighted the work of Dublin’s future leading artists and designers.

In total, work by 329 students featured in the NCAD 2017 Show.

The showcase presents an annual opportunity to exhibit the creative identities of students as they launch their careers.

Highlights include: · An interactive virtual reality installation by MFA Fine Art student Elaine Hoey, Stranger than Fiction is Fact utilises technology to disrupt and destabilise the viewer’s navigation and understanding of our current political mediascape. It investigates the idea of fiction as a new reality, drawing parallels between technological, mediated

and political systems, proposing new ways to negotiate this uncertain terrain. · Through personal interviews and anecdotes, The Curious Paradox by Visual Communication student Conor Foran, sheds light on the shy presence of stammering in our society. · A Culinary Childhood by Jewellery and Metalwork student, Sinead Christie, explores the challenging and memorable personal moments that she has experienced with her family. Passion for food runs through their veins and when they eat together, they are celebrating life – the good and the bad.

By taking the fork and spoon motifs, Christie turns them into personal and quirky reflections of both her and her family, while showing how love stands in the face of adversity. · Demolishing the Memories by Joint

Painting and Education student, Adam McGrane, is a tribute to the people of St Teresa’s Gardens on the occasion of the demolition of the flat complex.

McGrane’s work captures the moment the resident’s homes were destroyed through using raw materials from the scene as an artistic medium. It offers an insight into the thriving community spirit that once existed, its balcony culture and an intimate view into the characters of St Teresa’s Gardens. · Shackleton by Product Design student Adam Blagburn, explores our sensory perceptions and questions the values we place on everyday experience. Modern society often fails to stop and take in the world around us.

Through haptic navigation and inflatable location mapping Shackleton acts as a tool for modern sensory exploration, disrupting everyday routine.

Alice Mary Brennan with her Pocket Parks ceramic planters

22 June 2017 GAZETTE 19

 EMMA NOLAN, Style Editor

AN exhibition showcasing the work of Irish and Japanese designers side by side is coming to Ireland this summer.

Hi! Fashion, an exhibition exploring garments from Japan and Ireland, will open at the National Craft Gallery, Kilkenny on August 12.

Curated by Gemma A Williams, this new exhibition will present womenswear and accessories that explore the visual correlations and contrasts between designers on the two islands.

Celebrating 60 years of sartorial history, Hi! Fashion will feature Japanese and Irish fashion side by side, creating a visual essay composed of juxtaposing garments. These tableaux will reveal unspoken dialogues, creating new conversations inspired by the contrasting, cyclical and disruptive nature of the design process.

The exhibition will showcase garments from

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Hi!

across these decades, starting with Irish designer Sybil Connolly, who launched her couture line in 1957.

The work of other significant and internationally renowned Irish designers will include: John Rocha, recognised as one of Ireland’s leading designers; Lainey Keogh who changed the face of Irish knitwear; rising international star Richard Malone; and Úna Burke whose designs have been worn by Rihanna, Lady Gaga, and Daphne Guinness.

Influential Japanese designers will include: Kansai Yamamoto, designer of David Bowie’s costumes during the 1970s; milliner Maiko Takeda, favoured by the singer Björk; and visionaries such as Issey Miyake together with innovative contemporary makers like Anrealage and Noritaka Tatehana.

Garments have been sourced globally from museum collections, designer archives and collectors as well as newly created pieces.

Kenta Nishimura

Richard Malone

Danielle Romeril

Aideen Gaynor

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DUBLINLIFE

CHEWS IN BRIEF

Woof day at the office?  EMMA NOLAN HAVE you always wanted to bring your dog to work with you? Well now you have the perfect excuse because tomorrow is Bring Your Dog to Work Day! As part of their exciting new campaign to make Ireland more dog-friendly, Dogs Trust, Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity, is calling for workplaces around Ireland to celebrate with them.

Dogs Trust is offering a limited number of goodie bags to workplaces welcoming dogs to their premises on the 23rd June, and will even be calling into some of the some of the dogfriendly workplaces on the day with some tasty treats for canine colleagues and their humans too!

Sarah Lynch, Campaigns Manager at Dogs Trust said: “We are delighted to be celebrating Bring Your Dog to Work Day again this year.

“This is another exciting initiative in our wider Dog Friendly Ireland campaign, where we highlight the small but effective changes that can be made in many different aspects of public life, in an effort to make Ireland the best country in the world for dogs and their humans.”

Don’t worry if you have never had a dog in your office before.

Once you sign up to take part, Dogs Trust will send you out a welcome pack, including helpful hints and tips that will ensure the day runs smoothly for both workers and pooches.

Suzie Carley, Executive Director Dogs Trust said: “Studies have found that bringing pet dogs to work can reduce stress and make the job more satisfying.

ANIMAL WELFARE: IT’S ‘BRING YOUR DOG TO WORK DAY’ TOMORROW “Stroking a dog is proven to elevate the production of happy hormones, serotonin and dopamine, which in turn lowers blood pressure and reduces stress.

“With over 40% of all Irish households owning a pet dog, Dogs Trust is encouraging organisations to join this fun initiative and allow dogs into workplaces, which we hope will boost morale, create a more satisfied and productive workforce and help make Ireland the best country in the world to be a dog.”

BOUNCY PLUTO IS A CHARMING BOY ON THE LOOK-OUT FOR A LOVING HOME

Does your employer needs some more convincing before you are allowed to bring your furry friend to work with you? Perhaps when you explain the benefits of having a dog in the work place, your employer will be more receptive to the idea!

The Benefits Research suggests access to dogs boosts morale and reduces stress levels, whether people have access to their own pets or other people’s.

Stroking a dog is proven to elevate the production of happy hormones, serotonin and dopamine, which in turn lowers blood pressure and reduces stress.

Dogs Trust is encouraging anyone taking part on the day to share some photos of themselves with their dog across social media by tagging @ DogsTrust_IE and using the hashtags #BringYourDogToWorkDay and #DogFriendlyIreland If you want to know more information about ‘Bring Your Dog to Work Day’ go to www.dogstrust.ie/dogfriendlyireland

OUR Dog of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* is Pluto, an extremely charming, three-year-old Pit Bull Cross.

He is basically a big puppy who just adores the people he is familiar with, and he loves nothing more than spending time with them, playing fetch and being generally funny and goofy.

As Pluto doesn’t know his own strength and is a bouncy boy, he is looking for an adult-only home where he will have company for most of the day. Pluto is very clever and really enjoys learning new tricks, so please do check out his video on the Dogs Trust website.

If you can be Pluto’s #SpecialSomeone*, then 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, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.

22 June 2017 GAZETTE 21

RECIPE: Whip up the perfect strawberry tiramisu for a summer BBQ

GAZETTE

FOOD&DRINK CHARITY: DUBLIN PUBS RAISE €50,000 FOR ALONE

Launching the initiative at The Two Sister’s Pub in Terenure were Tony McCarthy, Anne McAuley, Noel Murphy and Annette Egan. Picture: Maxwells

CRUMBLED up lady fingers are drizzled in sweet coffee syrup and layered with a creamy filling and juicy strawberries to make this fruity twist on the classic Italian dessert.

This no bake dessert-in-a-jar takes just minutes to make and is perfect served at a barbecue or summer picnic.

Ingredients: Coffee syrup 150ml strong coffee 60g Siúcra Light Golden Brown Sugar Filling: 200ml cream 100g mascarpone 50g Siúcra Icing Sugar 2 tbsp almond liqueur (or 3 tbsp orange juice) 15 savoiardi (ladyfingers), finely crushed 100g strawberries, hulled and sliced To decorate: Cocoa powder, for dusting 2 tbsp toasted almond flakes, to decorate Method: 1. To prepare the coffee syrup, combine the coffee and Siúcra Light Golden Brown Sugar in a saucepan and heat on medium and reduce by half until a syrup forms.

Leave to cool completely, and then beat together the cream, mascarpone, Siúcra Icing Sugar and almond liqueur in a bowl until softly whipped.

2.

Spoon some of the crushed ladyfingers into the glasses.

3.

Spoon a layer of mascarpone mix on top and spoon over some coffee syrup.

4. Arrange the strawberry slices and complete with mascarpone cream.

5.

Dust each with a little cocoa powder and sprinkle over the almond flakes before serving.

Toasting a tipple that can help city’s elderly  EMMA NOLAN

DUBLIN publicans have already raised €50,000 for ALONE since the introduction of Dublin Amber just a couple of months ago.

The initiative between the charity and the Licenced Vinters Association (LVA) saw Guinness brew a limited edition beer, Dublin Amber Pale Ale. A joint donation of 50 cent for each pint of Dublin Amber sold in participating pubs is being made to ALONE by Guinness and each participating publican to support the expansion of the charity’s services.

Sean Moy nihan, ALONE’S chief executive, told The Gazette: “It’s really great to see that this initiative has gained such traction with Dublin’s publicans and their customers.”

ALONE depends on public support, with 100% of all donations going

directly to providing servicAlthough Ann has a in her foot Ann was cones to older people in need. close relationship with her fined to her house.

Sean added: “The funds children, her two daughThen, a handyman who raised will help us to reach ters live in America and often visited her to help fix out to the one in 10 older England, and her other up her home, let her know people who experience son lives a few hours’ drive that he is a befriender with chronic loneliness.” away.

ALONE, and her told her To high- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - a b o u t i t s l i g h t h ow Befriending the Dubservice. lin Amber The next sales and day she donations called its are already support helping to coordinasupport the tor, Stephen, fantastic and told him work carried about her out by the loneliness charity, Sean and isolareferred to tion. Ann one particuwas matched lar ALONE - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - with Collette case, that of Donall O’Keeffe, chief executive, the LVA over the sum79-year-old - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - mer, and the Dubliner Ann McAuley.

Ann is very outgoing pair get on brilliantly.

Ann had been happily and sociable, and felt “very Sean said Ann often married for 56 years when lonely” when her husband mentions how Collette is she lost her husband to passed away. now like “a second daughlung disease in 2009. Her Her loneliness pro- ter” to her, with the pair son, who lived in France, gressed, as her son could regularly going out on trips had passed away suddenly only visit her once a week, and dinners around Dub15 months earlier. and due to nerve damage lin.

‘Many elderly people who live alone visit their local pub for a chat with the staff, not just to eat or drink – it’s the social aspect of it.

‘Our members wanted to give something back to the community to mark the bicentenary and that really seems to have struck a chord with the public.’

Speaking about the par tnership, Donall O’Keeffe, chief executive of the LVA, said that it was such a fitting match as pubs have long been at the heart of Irish communities.

He said: “The pub is a focal point that keeps people connected. Many elderly people who live alone visit their local pub for a chat with the staff, not just to eat or drink – it’s the social aspect of it.

“Our members wanted to give something back to the community to mark the bicentenary and that really seems to have struck a chord with the public.

“Community is at the heart of the Dublin pub and that is why we chose to partner with ALONE on this initiative.

“Given that Dublin Amber has only been available for a couple of months, we are delighted with the funds raised so far.”

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DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

Citroen C3 Aircross is the latest compact SUV in the range

Citroen’s SUV offensive continues with C3 Aircross AFTER the C5 Aircross reveal, Citroen is stepping up its offensive in the SUV segment with the launch of the new C3 Aircross, its “new-generation” compact SUV. Its unique body styling allows for up to 90 exterior style combinations and five interior design scheme choices.

The new compact SUV claims unrivalled spaciousness and a fresh inside feeling due to its opening panoramic glass sunroof. This car claims to blend city and rural driving comforts and offers Grip Control and Hill Assist Descent systems for driving off the tarmac surface. Citroen has equipped the new C3 Aircross with modern technologies including 12 driver assistance systems such as head-up display and four connectivity technologies, such as wireless charging for smart phone.

The new C3 Aircross comes with Citroen’s Advanced Comfort programme which claims to be focused on mental and physical well-being. The cabin claims classleading spaciousness (best ceiling height, generous leg room), a flat-folding front passenger seat for a load length of 2.40m and boot volume of 410 litres that extends to 520 litres. The Citroen C3 Aircross compact SUV will be launched in Europe in second-half 2017.

Fiat pushes van warranty from three to five years

FIAT is offering business drivers increased peace

of mind by taking advantage of a new five-year or 200,000km warranty on all Fiat Professional van orders placed by the end of July.

Fiat Ireland is increasing the warranty on the range, including the recently-launched Fiat Fullback pick up and the Talento van, from three years to five for all Fiat Professional models ordered by July 31.

The offer includes Fiat’s new Fullback pick-up that has been re-branded from the Mitsubishi L200 pick-up. It is powered by an aluminium-block, 2.4litre diesel engine with a variable-geometry turbo charger, which produces 150hp and 380Nm of torque, yet its official combined-cycle fuel economy figure is just 15.6km/litre (44.2mpg) and its CO2 emissions are 169g/km. The standard SX transmission comprises a six-speed manual gearbox.

Available as a double cab only and with allwheel drive as standard on all versions, the Fiat Professional Fullback starts at €25,625 (excluding VAT, delivery and plates)

The new Fiat Fullback pick-

for the SX version.

up range

Peugeot’s 3008 sets a styling impression

In a packed SUV market, the new Peugeot 3008 stands out from the crowd with impressive new styling inside and out and a driving ability that looks set to convert many SUV drivers. Here, Gazette motoring expert MICHAEL MORONEY gives his report following a week behind the novel 3008

THE new Peugeot 3008 makes a strong first impression. Their design team have excelled in producing a new car/ SUV that has bridged the gap between modern and practical and is sure to boost Peugeot sales dramatically in Ireland.

The accolades for the new Peugeot 3008 have come before it – it was named the 2017 Car of the Year on Monday, March 6, in Geneva by a judging panel comprising 58 European journalists.

It’s the first time ever that an SUV has won the prestigious award, giving the 3008 a significant head start in the market.

I drove the car earlier in the year when it was introduced to the Irish market, but I needed to take it for a longer drive to get more acquainted with its abilities. Peugeot provided me with the range topping GT version that’s probably outside the normal expectations of the car. The specification was high, just to show how well you can dress up the car to add a further touch of luxury to its already impressive credentials.

Peugeot have noticed the swing towards petrol power in the new 3008, even though I drove the diesel version. They expect that up to 205 of new 3008 buyers will be opting for the Peugeot’s 1.2-litre PureTech turbo petrol engine compared with the 1.6- or 2.0-litre diesel versions.

Peugeot offers the new 3008 in four trim levels, Access, Allure, GT Line or

Peugeot’s new 3008 is a very stylish looking SUV that’s been crowned car of the year 2017 and offers a unique blend of modern styling, comfort and road handling

Peugeot’s petrol engine option is another plus at the entry end of the marSPECIFICATIONS ket, while its diesel powEngine 2.0 litre ered 1.6-litre entry model is also very price competiEngine power 150hp tive.

0 – 100km/hr 8.9 seconds Against the 2.0-litre Economy 21km/litre turbo-diesel competition,

(4.8l/100km or 59mpg) which is the dominant Fuel Tank Capacity 53 litres engine size in this segCO2 emissions 124g/km ment of the market, this new 3008 scores well with Road Tax Band B1 €270 a fuel economy rating of Main Service 20,000km/12 months 21km/litre (4.8l/100km or Euro NCAP Rating 5 star (2016) 59mpg).

Peugeot 3008 2.0 HDI

Towing rating 1700kgs Warranty 5 years (100,000km) Entry Price €25,995

GT. They claim that over 85% of orders for the car are from the second level Allure trim upwards, as Peugeot aims to lift the image of the brand to a higher and more prestigious level.

The new Peugeot joins a growing C-SUV segment of the car market where there is lots of impressive

and longer standing competition. Nissan’s Qashqai is the segment market leader so many buyers will be benchmarking the new 3008 against it and the fast growing Renault Kadjar.

The Peugeot 3008 has performance measures to match with the benefit of new Peugeot styling to give the car a stand-out look.

Real world

I drove the 3008 over a 980km test drive and found that my real world driving economy with the car’s six-speed automatic gearbox was about 30% off the rated figure, that’s a level of economy difference that I’ve come to expect across almost all cars that I drive.

On the inside you’ll simply have to be impressed with the modern layout

and design. The new-generation i-Cockpit gives the car a distinctive interior style and feel. I liked the compact Formula cartype steering wheel, the large 12.3” display and central touch screen console which is controlled in an almost mechanical way by what Peugeot call are ergonomic piano keys.

Entry prices for the new Peugeot 3008 are competitive starting at €25,995 for the petrol versions while diesel powered versions come with a starting price of €27,915 for the 1.6-litre engines. That’s a competitive offer relative to the market leaders for a new car design that’s impressively distinctive.

Get close to the new Peugeot 3008 and the design is such a departure from any car that Peugeot has produced before that you will struggle not to be wooed by it. Drive it and you will be convinced.

22 June 2017 GAZETTE 23

Ford to focus on mobility solutions for Europe with new office FORD will soon open a dedicated Ford Smart Mobility Innovation Office in London focussing on future mobility solutions for Europe. The new office will give a dedicated team of Ford specialists easy access to world-class digital companies, leading academic institutions and existing partners as it targets the near term development of smart mobility solutions that meet the needs of Europe’s major cities.

“Basing our rapidly growing team here in the heart of mobility innovation in London is critical to accelerating our learning and development of new technologies. The location will allow us greater collaboration and the out-of-the-box thinking needed to tackle the urban transport challenges of tomorrow,” said Steven Armstrong, group vice president and president of Europe, Middle East and Africa, Ford Motor Company, at the opening of London Tech Week.

The London location allows Ford close proximity to its existing cutting edge trials in London including the plug-in hybrid Transit fleet project launching later this year. The Olympic Park’s unique private road network may also be utilised for testing in the future.

GAZETTE

MOTORING

Seat Open Week takes place at Bradys BRADYS Dublin of Old Navan Road, Castleknock, Dublin 15 has announced details of its upcoming Open Week which is taking place from Saturday, June 24 to Saturday, July 1.

Open Week offers include a free three-year service plan available across the full Seat product range.

Bradys Dublin upcoming Open Week is part of SEAT’s overall 172 campaign which includes a host of other attractive finance offers.

To mark the arrival of the all new fifth generation Seat Ibiza, 2% finance is available on any new Ibiza model with monthly repayments of just €169, and one year free road tax also part of the impressive offering.

Meanwhile, 172 offers also include a staggering 2.9% PCP finance on the award-winning Seat Ateca resulting in monthly repayments of just €269. The comprehensive 172 finance offers on the Ateca also include a trade in bonus of up to €4,000.

For the upgraded new Seat Leon, a trade in bonus of up to €3,000 is available, while 0% finance is on offer on selected Leon models resulting in monthly repayments from as little as €219.

Niall Phillips, brand director of Seat Ireland commented: “This upcoming Open Week represents a tremendous opportunity for cus-

Bradys Dublin upcoming Open Week is part of SEAT’s overall 172 campaign

tomers to visit their local Seat dealer and see for themselves the excellent value available especially when you consider that this offer is available across the full Seat range which just so happens to be the greatest product range the brand has ever had. The offer of a free three-year service plan together with finance from 0% and attractive trade in bonuses is available across the dealer network.”

The announcement of Seat’s upcoming

Open Week and the recent launch of Seat’s 172 finance offers comes at an exciting time for the brand who only recently announced that its Irish Q1 sales increased by a significant 16.2% year on year.

Seat is also in the midst of its biggest ever product offensive – the all-new Seat Ibiza will be presented to the Irish market in July, and the Seat Arona will follow later in the year.

GAZETTE

24 LUCAN GAZETTE 22 June 2017

DUBLINLIFE

GAMES

Exploring the best of what’s to come with previews at E3 ANOTHER year, and another E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) – the games industry’s biggest trade gathering-slashfestival, where games developers, publishers, the media, business analysts, beancounters and gamers alike all get a good look at what’s coming along in the next year.

It’s always a big deal and a massive undertaking, with this year’s bustling E3 – held across several days last week in Los Angeles – proving no exception, with an interesting mix of the familiar and the fresh creating a unique gaming flavour for the rest of this year, and into next.

However, while every year sees many old favourites get another twist or sequel, some more lazily so than others, there definitely seemed to be more of an over-reliance on tried-and-true franchises and fan favourites than usual at this year’s E3.

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com

Of course E3 still managed to have plenty of absolutely great games, as well as lots of industry deals on the sidelines, yet there were few truly stunning or adventurous titles this year – there was a strong flavour of iteration, not innovation, for many of the games on show.

I suspect that E3 2019 – a bit down the road with the newer platforms – will have more striking titles, but for now, here’s a brief look at just a few of this year’s E3 highlights, in no particular order.

First up, a quick overall look at the consoles saw Microsoft make waves with its proper industry reveal of its upcoming

super-powerful but confusingly named console, the XBOX. As I recently wrote, MS has the chance to make up for its blunders with the XBox One, and if this time round it gets more developers and exclusives on board, the XBOX could return the fight to Sony.

Speaking of Sony, like MS it also had some great PS4 games on show, as well as an over-reliance on sequels, making it a good but not brilliant E3 showing for their wares.

However, of all the platforms, Sony drew the most flak for several high-profile titles that were conspicuous by their absence.

In some ways, Nintendo had the freshest E3 showing, as the underdog in the current platform wars came out swinging with some quirky titles for its recently launched Switch console.

Ploughing a different furrow to its two rivals, the

Japanese company presented a variety of pretty fun but not revolutionary titles, as well as some metoo ports of hit titles.

It was business as usual then for the consoles, but what were the games that created the most buzz?

With so many games revealed over E3’s days, I’d need several pages to run through the top titles alone, so here are just some that caught my attention ...

Biggest surprise of E3: the upcoming ground-up full re-remake of Shadow of the Colossus, for PS4.

The cult PS2 classic was absolutely adored by critics, largely ignored by gamers, and has already had a HD lick of paint remake for the PS3 to secure its place in gaming’s pantheon.

The surprise reveal that SOTC’s rock-and-moss monster slaying across an atmospheric, empty landscape is to return – again

Just three out of dozens of great games included Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus; Assassin’s Creed Origins; and Uncharted: The Lost Legacy

– was an E3 highlight for many, with the unexpected news cementing its place as an early 2018 highlight, and one of the rare justifications for a game remake.

Everybody loves Nazis – the villains du jour before gamers became fixated on zombies in recent years – and the latest in the wellreceived uncharted: The Lost Leghacy looked quite a blast, pun intended.

Some very slick graphics and confident art direction – not to mention its super-violent gunplay, as

rebels fight back in a Nazioccupied America – made it one to watch out for.

Going way, way back beyond Nazis, ancient Egyptians popped up in the latest in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, Origins.

It’s a series which has always been very pretty, but – sssh – often pretty dull, yet its recreation of ancient Egypt at the height of its power was pretty stunning, and could be just the fresh blood that’s urgently needed to give the stale franchise the

reboot it needs.

There’s not much that needs to be said about the must-buy imminent Uncharted standalone story, The Lost Legacy, save that it showcased developer Naughty Dog’s usual mix of top-tier graphics with excellent character writing.

Ah, out of space already!

It’s impossible to do justice to the range on show at E3 – but you’ll see several of E3 2017’s best titles grace these pages in coming months, so stay tuned ...

22 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

CINEMA BABY DRIVER: THE DIRECTOR HAS ALL THE WRIGHT STUFF TO EASILY ENTERTAIN

Some breakneck beats abound AFTER the misfire of 2013’s The World’s End, and the on-and-off saga of Marvel’s Ant-Man (off in the end, sadly), those dedicated to the cult of director Edgar Wright have a very good reason to be excited.

Heist-action-comedy Baby Driver (Cert 15A, 113mins) is a blast of fresh air – a funny, exciting and relentlessly clever thrillride.

Young getaway driver “Baby” (Ansel Elgort) is nearing the end of his crime career, working for crime boss Doc (Kevin Spacey).

Baby is the best in the business, but only drives to his own personal

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

soundtrack – much to the chagrin of the everchanging group of bank robbers he helps escape (John Hamm, Jamie Foxx, Eiza Gonzales, Jon Bernthal).

W hen Baby meets waitress Deborah (Lily James, channelling True R o m a n c e ’s P a t r i c i a Arquette) things get complicated – Doc doesn’t want Baby out of the game, and Baby now has

There’s a pretty solid cast assembled for the film, but you’re more likely to remember it for its terrific use of music and pace than their acting chops

something he can’t afford to lose. The basic plot isn’t exactly all that original, recalling the beats of crime classics such as Michael

Mann’s quiet epic, Thief.

What puts Baby Driver in a league of its own is its wonderfully original, flawlessly executed approach

to music. Edgar Wright blends music into his film with more finesse than recent musical hits like La La Land – from the

first frame to the last, Baby Driver’s soundtrack rarely lets up.

Every action is accompanied with a perfectly synched, expertly matched song, ranging from classic soul to New York punk, golden age hip-hop to classic rock. Lyrics are burnt into the celluloid, becoming part of the aesthetic, the scenery, the style, and of course, the soundtrack.

The car chase action here, as exaggerated as it is, is much more grounded than the way-way overthe-top fare of the Fast and Furious series – and much more exciting, to boot.

There’s a kind of choreography to everything on

screen, from simple movements to explosive action; everything is dictated by music.

Accordingly, Baby Driver feel something like an action movie mix-tape – gunshots respond to every music beat, cars weave through traffic at breakneck speeds to the swell of choruses.

The film recalls the best of Wright’s work, blending his love of movies and love of music into a referential delight; cinema and record nerd alike will find plenty to squeal about here.

Baby Driver is likely to be the most fun you’ll have at the movies this year.

Verdict: 9/10

26 LUCAN GAZETTE 22 June 2017

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28 LUCAN GAZETTE 22 June 2017

SPORT

FastSport SUNDRIVE HOSTS INTERNATIONAL CYCLING STARS: SUNDRIVE hosts the Dublin Track Cycling International on July 1-2. The two-day event promises to be a tough one for competitors and an exciting one for spectators with Olympic and World Champion riders descending on the Eamonn Ceannt Park in Sundrive, Dublin to compete in Ireland’s only Class 1 UCI event.

Olympic champion Elinor Barker and top track cyclists from GB, Spain, Belgium, Italy and the Netherlands have been confirmed, as well as a strong Irish contingent.

Among those flying the flag for Ireland are Irish team members Lydia Boylan, Felix English, Anna Turvey and Fintan Ryan, with a large entry of Irish traveling from all corners of the country.

“It’s going to be a tough two days of competition,” Boylan said of the event. events in itself, as well as the scratch race and the points race. I’m ready to race in front of some good home crowds.”

Entry is free for spectators.

IRISH SELECTION: SIZEABLE CREW SET TO REPRESENT COUNTRY ON BIG STAGE

Ten Dubliners Malaga-bound for World Transplant Games

 sport@dublingazette.com

TEN Dubliners will represent Ireland at the World Transplant Games in Malaga this summer with the event getting underway on Sunday, June 25.

Baldoyle’s Harry Ward has been named as team captain.

He is included along with Castleknock’s Ron Grainger, Santry’s Paul Prendergast, Ar tane’s Anthony By rne, Greenhill’s Angela Sherlock, Skerries’ Paul Heffernan, Clonsilla’s Aoife Murray, Cabinteely’s Michael Dwyer, Tallaght’s Leonard Ryan and Dalkey’s Deirdre Faul.

They will join others from over 50 countries in what will be the biggest gathering of transplant recipients this year.

Almost 1,000 competitors registered to take on events as diverse as athletics, badminton, swimming, ten pin bowling and darts to name but a few.

Ranging in age from 30 to 79, Transplant Team Ireland includes five Liver transplant recipients and 23 who have undergone kidney transplants.

Colin White, the National Projects Manager of the Irish

Members of Transplant Team Ireland with Kilkenny hurling legend Michael Fennelly in ALSAA. Picture: Robbie Reynolds

Kidney Association is the Ireland Team Manager and he is also currently the treasurer of the World Transplant Games Federation.

Tradition He said of the event: “This year the World Transplant Games Federation is celebrating 30 years and we can be proud of the tradition that our

team has in the competition.

“Our team is known for its sense of fair play as well as its sense of fun with both underpinned by a steely competitive edge. Our athletes are coming from across the country and their dedication and commitment is not only to their training, in practical terms, they also fund the vast majority of the costs involved.

“Their motivation is driven by a determination to be Fit for Life, to show other ‘patients’ what can be achieved posttransplant and to encourage the general public to have a family discussion about organ donation”.

“It will be my 7th World Transplant Games as Ireland Team Manager and it continues to be a most humbling

honour to be a part of such an inspiring group of people.

Every athlete at the World Transplant Games will have already received a kidney, liver, heart, lung, pancreas or bone marrow transplant.

Although the main objective for team members is to embrace life and promote organ donation, some returning team members will also be contesting for world titles.

Keen to build on their medal successes at the previous World Transplant Games in Argentina in 2015, Faul and Peter Heffernan have being training hard in anticipation of the competition in Malaga.

Team captain Ward has represented Ireland at numerous international Games events both as a dialysis patient and in more recent years as a transplant recipient thanks to his kidney transplant which he received in 2007.

Athletes will compete in their respective age categories in the following events: badminton, cycling, darts, golf, petanque, squash, swimming, table tennis, ten pin bowling, tennis, mini-marathon, and track and field.

Sean Kelly leads the pack in support of COPD Ireland  sport@dublingazette.com

Damien Peelo, Executive Director, COPD Support Ireland, and legendary cycling champion, Sean Kelly. Picture: Inpho

DUBLINERS are being urged to come out in force on Saturday June 24 to support a 50-strong group of cycling enthusiasts who will be entering the final stages of a marathon cycling challenge in aid of COPD Support Ireland.

The “Get Breathless for COPD” charity cycle from Galway to Dublin, which is led by cycling champion Sean Kelly will see the riders finally cross the finish line at the Commercial Rowing Club in Islandbridge at approximately 5.30pm.

COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is perhaps better known as bronchitis or emphysema, and is where the airways of the lungs are narrower than normal, leading to airflow obstruction and difficulty breathing. It is the fourth most common cause of death in Ireland after heart disease, lung cancer and stroke.

The cycling challenge takes place over two days, with participants getting on their bikes in Galway on Friday, June 23 and travelling as far as Athlone, before hitting the road again for Dublin

on Saturday, June 24.

Kelly, believes the event offers a great opportunity to showcase the importance of physical activity for better health: “I’m really looking forward to getting back in the saddle again for COPD Support Ireland and to joining a really enthusiastic gang of people keen to raise awareness of COPD. “I’d encourage everyone to make themselves aware of the disease and the steps that they can take to minimise their risk by not smoking, by eating a healthy diet and by exercising for 30 minutes most days.

“And, of course, what better way to enjoy physical activity than to go out for a regular spin on a bicycle? It’s great for blowing out the cobwebs, for getting back in touch with nature, and for giving our lungs a good workout. Please come along and say hello if we are in your neighbourhood - we’d love to see you!”

The challenge aims to generate awareness of COPD, while also raising up to €20,000 in muchneeded funds for vital COPD services. Members of the public can lend their support by texting “COPD” to 50300 to donate €2.

22 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Loreto’s McLoughlin plays key role in Irish series win IRELAND’S Under-21 women’s hockey team produced wins on Saturday and Sunday to see off Scotland at Queen’s, using 30 players across three games as they continue their Euro preparations.

The Scots started the series well, winning the first tie 2-1. Loreto’s Hannah McLoughlin, pictured above, was at the heart of the Irish goal, setting up Edel Nyland for what proved a consolation effort.

In game two, Ireland came back from 2-0 down to score a 5-2 win over Scotland and put the series right back into the mix.

Scotland started the stronger with Millie Steiger and Lorna Cruikshank both scoring before the end of the first quarter.

Ireland improved in the second quarter, holding the majority of possession and creating all the chances with Nyland and Rachel Burns combining brilliantly for a first major chance while a Scottish defender cleared another Burns shot off the line.

Hermes-Monkstown’s Ellen Curran’s crash ball yielded a corner that went unconverted while another chance came when Nyland fired just wide from Emma Kernohan’s pass.

Scottish keeper Megan Inch denied UCD’s Abbie Russell’s powerful shot before McLoughlin got one back from a penalty corner breakdown, making it 2-1 to the Scots at half-time.

They carried that momentum into the second half when Nyland drove around the last defender before drawing another save. Ireland drew level when Erin Getty and Jessica McMaster linked up to play in Russell whose forehand shot found the bottom corner.

It left the game poised at 2-2 going into the final quarter when Ireland took full control. McMaster put them in front from a corner, rebounding off McLoughlin’s initial shot.

The Queen’s striker added another when she drove through the heart of the Scottish defence before slotting home for 4-2.

Tori Hastings then played in Railway Union’s Michelle Carey on the p-spot and she slipped her shot over the line.

Game three saw Ireland win out 2-0. They controlled much of a scoreless first half. Michelle Barry gave them the lead early in the second half.

McLoughlin closed out the win with her second goal in as many days, finishing off after a nice exchange with Carey.

Lamb taking nothing for granted in Leinster Ladies football star says Dublin need to be wary of Laois ahead of their provincial semi-final as she looks forward to a busy summer, heading up Kilmacud Crokes’ multi-sport camps  STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@dublingazette.com

WHILE Molly Lamb has yet to lose a Leinster championship match in her fledgling intercounty career with Dublin, the Kilmacud Crokes woman says there are always reasons to be wary.

They face Laois on Sunday at Timahoe in the provincial semi-final with the sky blues starting their bid to win a sixth title in a row. She joined the panel in 2014 as a teenager in the midst that Dublin run, making her mark, eventually lining out in midfield in the first of three successive All-Ireland final against Cork.

Looking ahead to the Laois tie, Lamb says that, growing up, the O’Moore

county always provided problems for Dublin.

“Growing up, we would have had ver y good matches with Laois. The year above me – the 1994 group – Laois had a particularly good team,” she told GazetteSport.

“Last season, a lot of their players went away for the summer but are back now so we wouldn’t be getting too caught up in thinking that we have beaten them in the past.

You just never know what is going to happen.”

She cites a “lucky escape” against Westmeath in the 2015 final.

“It’s not as if we are walking through the competition. You always have to respect your opponent because you never know when you will get caught.”

Indeed, they will be keeping extra close tabs on the influential Maggie Farrelly and goal-getter Ciara Bourke. For 2017, Dublin have been managed by Mick Bohan, taking over from Greg McGonigle and he has mixed and matched for much of the league campaign.

“It was good this year with Mick giving everyone a chance because he is obviously getting to know everyone as well. Throwing some people in who haven’t got much senior game time before. It was good it was chopped and changed that everyone got a chance to impress.”

Since then, he has given the players a healthy space to focus on the club. For Kilmacud, they

Molly Lamb says that you cannot take anything for granted despite an impeccable record in the Leinster senior football championship. Picture: Peter Hickey/GAAPics.com

ran up wins over Clanna Gael Fontenoy and Fingallians, putting them in good shape for games in July against St Sylvester’s and Na Fianna.

“That will be the focus when they come along but now is very much county time. It is nice to compartmentalise it and there is respect for the club scene which makes it easier for the club to release you back to the county.”

For Lamb, giving back to the club and the community is something she will be doing in spades this summer. Along with fellow senior footballer Emer Sweeney, she is heading up the club’s multi-sports camps for five weeks at Kilmacud Crokes’ Glenalbyn home.

The camps are open to Crokes’ members and non-members alike and are an extra option in addition to the club’s regular hurling, Gaelic football and Kellogg’s Cul Camps where former Dublin hurler Niall Corcoan and Padraic McDonald will be key coaches.

“We have access to the basketball courts, the tennis, dodgeball, rounders as well as Gaelic football and hurling mixed in with loads of other things.

“Coaching is something I have always been involved in between the mini All-Irelands, the camps and going down to the nursery – it’s what I have always done in the summer.

“There’s such massive interest. We have had the

mini All-Irelands on the last few weeks with 400 girls doing football and camogie; there’s 500 for hurling last week and then up 700 for the football this week.

“There’s huge interest and people around all summer so we are facilitating it for the kids.”

For Lambe, she has always been exposed to numerous sports and played international underage hockey before focusing on football.

“Growing up, I would have played basketball, swimming and everything. With the demands of training and so on, you only have time to play one sport but, ideally, I would love to be out playing as much as I could.

“Kids should try everything out and see what suits them best. You meet all kinds of different people and I would still have a good group of friends from hockey and that’s very important.” **The Kilmacud Crokes multi-sports camps run in Glenalbyn from July 10 to August 11 with the camps open for all. For members, the club will run its Kellogg’s Cul Camp from July 3 to 7; a Silverpark coaching camp from July 10 to 28 and their GAA summer camps from August 14 to 25.

For more information, go to http://kilmacudcrokes.com/football/ mini-all-ireland-kilmacudglenalbyn-multisport-summer-camp.

GAZETTE

30 LUCAN GAZETTE 22 June 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

CANOEING: LUCAN WOMAN MEDALS IN PORTUGAL AND IN SERBIA

Beech Park’s half dozen shine at Kennedy Cup BEECH Park’s superb season got even better when six of their players represented the SDFL in the Kennedy Cup at the University of Limerick last week.

Midfielder Callan O’Reilly captained the squad that also contained Beech Park teammates Euan Curran, Sam Noctor, Tariq Almugheiry, John Ojewumi and Emmanuel Adewale.

The Kennedy Cup is one of the most prestigious Under-14 competitions in the country, with 640 players representing 32 teams over the course of 96 games. The tournament requires 32 match officials, highlighting its sheer size.

The SDFL squad finished second in their group with two wins from three to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Kennedy Bowl but were knocked out in the semi-finals after losing 1-0 to Dundalk.

Beech Park manager Jarlath Beagan spoke to GazetteSport about how proud he was to see so many of his players represent the district. “It’s a great honour for Beechpark to have so many players in the Kennedy Cup squad but for Callan to captain the team made it extra special for us.

“We also had Sam Noctor, who is with us since Under-8s. I myself have managed the team since Under-7s and Sam has been with us all the way through so for me, personally, it’s great to see him making the step up to the Kennedy Cup squad.”

There was also a personal nod for Ojewumi when he was nominated for goal of the day for his excellent finish into the top corner from a tight angle.

“John plays centre forward for us,” said Beagan.

“He is only new to the team this year but he has been a great addition. It was a fantastic goal that he scored.”

Beech Park have enjoyed a great start to the season by winning four and drawing three of their first seven games in the SDFL Under-14 Premier but challenging for honours is not something they are used to in recent years.

“We wouldn’t normally be competing at the top end of the SDFL. This is probably the first time in a number of years that we have been able to get a team together capable of competing at the high end of the division so it wouldn’t be normal for Beechpark to have so many players [in the SDFL squad]. We are unbeaten in the league and it is going to be a titanic battle between us and Beechwood when the league resumes.”

Lucan’s Jenny Egan on the top step of the podium in Portugal

Egan fights back from injury sport@dublingazette.com

SALMON Leap’s Jenny Egan has made a superb start to the 2017 international sprint racing season with a series of medals on the World Cup circuit.

She took gold at the first event of the season Montemor-o-Velho, Portugal in May in the 5,000m final with a brilliant late sprint.

She also made her first World Cup final in the K1 200 metres in which she finished ninth, and narrowly missed the final of the K1 500 meters by 0.07 seconds.

A week later in Szeged, Hungary, she was really looking forward to

another weekend of racing but, unfortunately, she damaged her neck and left shoulder during a warm up session on the Friday morning. While she raced the semi-final, it was very obvious the injury had taken its toll and she finished in seventh, missing out on the final.

Egan stated, when interviewed at the end of that weekend, that she was bitterly disappointed to pick up the injury but was hopeful of recovering for the next event three weeks later in Belgrade, Serbia.

Egan remained on in Szeged for another three days before travelling to Belgrade during which

HAPPY HARRIERS Hyland and Heffernan excel in Phoenix Park LUCAN Harriers had 32 athletes taking part in the Irish Runner 5 mile and Family Run over 2.5km held in the Phoeniz Park last Saturday.

First home for Lucan, and 20th in his age group, was PJ Hyland finishing in 31.20. He was followed by David Trunk who finished in 36.47 and Colm Munnelly in 37.23.

First Lucan lady home was Lorraine Heffernan in a time of 37.47 ahead of Kathleen Trunk in 38.02.

In the Family Run, Lucan’s Sean Kavanagh was second male home overall.

she had some treatment on her injury.

And the teak-tough Lucan native showed her resolve to fight her way back onto the podium, winning a bronze medal in the 5,000 metre K1 final.

Apprehension Having not fully recovered from the injury, she was very apprehensive about how she would perform in the final with 22 of the best racers in the world on the start line and a temperature of 32 degrees.

Six athletes, including Egan, broke away from the rest field in the first 500 metres.

T his group stayed

together for the next 2,000 meters until the Australian Alyssa Bull and Spaniard Laia Pelachs broke away.

However, Egan wasn’t for letting them get away and fought her way back to catch both of them and now the battle was on for the medals.

In a very tight finish, Bull took gold and the Spaniard silver with Egan holding on for bronze.

Egan was delighted to get another podium finish, saying afterwards: “This is a medal I will really cherish as it has been a tough week as my injury limited my training and general preparation.”

“On top of her medal

win, she also made the B Final of the 500 metres event and finished ninth in it.

It leaves her in confident form as she heads into a five-week block of training ahead of the senior European championships in Bulgaria in mid-July where she hopes to replicate the form that saw her win a European bronze medal two years ago.

Egan is a member of Salmon Leap Canoe Club in Leixlip and narrowly missed out on qualification for the Rio Olympic Games by one position and has set her sights on the Toyko Olympic Games in 2020.

22 June 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

KELLY CUP HEROES

St Mary’s GNS lead way in battle of the 12th Lock

CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS

ST MARY’S GNS won the Kelly Cup on Monday evening as they emerged victorious from the annual primary competition hosted by Lucan Sarsfields for local schools.

They edged out Lucan Educate Together in the final following three rounds of ground matches at the 12th Lock. Also included in the competition were Gaelscoil Naomh Padraig, Gaelscoil Eiscir Riada, Scoil Mhuire Woodview and Scoil Aine.

CALLING on all members for a big push

ter with the As overcoming Naomh Olaf

on selling the car draw tickets. Please

in the championship and Crumlin in the

return sold tickets to the club ASAP.

league. The junior Bs took an away win

Congratulations to the U-14 camogie

Ladies football are continuing their

National Feile competition at the week-

winning ways with a league win over St

end. Two pool wins got them the trip to

Peregrines.

Bunclody but Sarsfields of Glanmire got the better of them.

Last week, there was no winner of the

CAMOGIE: 12TH LOCK SIDE REACH REGIONAL QUARTERS

out at O’Dwyer’s.

girls on getting to the quarter final of the

Lucan Sarsfields Golf Society: our annual classic in Lucan Golf Club was a great success with 34 teams taking part.

€5,400 lotto and the numbers were 2, 12,

Thanks to all who supported the clas-

20 and 26. This week’s €5,800 draw will be

sic and to Lucan Golf Club. Congratu-

managed by Team Josephine Donohue

lations to all the winning team of Pio

and is sponsored by John Ryan Account-

O’Leary, Noel Kelly, Alan McGrath and

ant.

George Sweeney.

Tickets can be purchased online, at the club, in Carey’s Newsagents or in Vesey Arms or Kenny’s Bar. Next up for the senior hurlers is a home encounter against St Oliver Plunketts on June 24 at 6.30pm.

The senior footballers lost out to both Thomas Davis and St Vincent’s in the last

The annual family fun day is scheduled for Saturday, July 1.

Bingo continues on Wednesdays at 8pm in the club bar.

The club shop closes on July 1 for its summer break. Items can still be purchased online or in O’Neill shop on the Long Mile Road.

week, it seems difficult to lift it for league

Lucan District Credit Union Academy:

games when you are out of champion-

Saturday at 9.30am for camogie and

ship. Next up is Skerries at home on June

girls football, 10am for boys football and

28 and hopefully a change in fortune.

hurling, for boys and girls born in 2010,

The intermediate footballers lost to Cuala 3-14 to 4-14.

Junior football is fairing much bet-

2011 and 2012 – 12th Lock. The academy’s last session before the summer break will be on June 24.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN

Lucan lose out in Sars war to Cork Lucan Sarsfields Under-14 camogie side that contested the regional Feile last weekend.

DIVISION ONE FEILE

 sport@dublingazette.com

LUCAN Sarsfields mentor Elaine Daly was delighted with her players’ effort as they reached the quarterfinal stage of the Under-14 Division 1 camogie Feile, held in Wexford and Kilkenny last weekend.

Their run eventually came to an end to their Sarsfields’ namesakes from Cork by 13 points but it did not detract from a superb showing overall.

“We can’t complain because we were beaten by the better team on the day and the girls put up a great show against them,”

Daly told GazetteSport.

“The score line doesn’t reflect the work rate the girls put in.”

The team’s first game was against local side St Brigid’s but it was the Kilkenny girls who were the ones left celebrating. Victory over Waterford’s Gailltir in the second match meant a win for Lucan in their final group game would see them reach the next stage.

They did just that with an impressive 24-point defeat of home side James Stephens.

“They were absolutely excellent in those two group games and really

showed off their skill to the absolute full.

“We could have won our first match, which would have seen us come out top of the table and given us an easier quarterfinal,” said Daly.

Sarsfields were Lucan’s opponents in the quarterfinal but the Cork side were proving far too strong for everyone over the weekend and progressed with a 3-4 to no score victory.

“We were unfortunate not to get one or two scores but they were an absolutely fabulous team. I suppose we were unlucky in a way that we got the

hard side of the draw,” Daly said.

“We were very disappointed but we were up against an extremely good team and at the end of the day that team won 2-13 to 1-2 in the final so they beat that team by more than they had beaten us.”

Despite returning to Dublin without some silverware, Daly believes everyone involved enjoyed a special tournament.

“It was a fabulous weekend for the girls and the families. After the disappointment of being knocked out, they rallied round and had a great weekend.”

WELL done to Emma Ryan and Sadhbh

football team. They really worked hard

Duffy who were in the Dublin minor

for each other and deserved their wins.

camogie trials at the weekend.

Well done to Josh Nolan on his work to

A huge well done also to the girls who

keep the opposition out.

took part in the Gaelic4girls blitz Satur-

St Patrick’s senior footballers put in a

day. They played three games in a very

great display against St Patrick’s, Don-

warm Moorefield GAA, Newbridge.

abate, coming away with a well deserved

The U-9 boys football teams faced

win.

Crumlin last week. Both teams won

The lads had committed to support-

convincingly against two competitive

ing our OsKaRs fundraiser but put their

teams. Special mention for Emmanuel

football first and sacrificed attending

Kayode who won man of the match.

the start of the show.

The U-10s had two super games on Saturday morning against St Mark’s

Well done and thank you lads delighted you got the win.

GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN MIXED week for our adult teams with

weekend with a league fixture against

two win and two losses. The intermedi-

Cuala in Westmanstown on Sunday

ates had two league fixtures beating

morning at 11am.

Clann Mhuire Naul at Westmanstown on

The ladies excellent form continued

Wednesday evening by 2-18 to 2-13 but

with a 3-18 to 1-3 league victory away at

unfortunately lost away to Ballyboughal

Round Tower, Clondalkin.

on Saturday by 2-17 to 0-17.

Next fixture at home to Ballymun Kickhams on Wednesday, June 28.

Big weekend for the U-14 girls Feile squad who travel to Tyholland GAA Club in Monaghan for the National Feile. Best

The inters are drawn against St Jude’s

of luck to the players, mentors and sup-

in the quarter final of the intermediate

porters who are making the journey

championship to be played afters Dub-

north.

lin’s championship campaign is finished.

The U-14 boys travelled north this

The juniors lost in the league away to

week to take on Aodh Rua of Ballyshan-

St Finians, Swords by four points; next

non, coming away with a good win.

fixture on Tuesday, June 27 at home to

Thanks to Aodh Rua for their hospitality.

Kilmacud Crokes.

The U-11 boys travelled to Naomh Olaf,

The minors resume activity next

fielding three teams with mixed results.

32 LUCAN GAZETTE 22 June 2017