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COUNCILLOR DEMANDS THAT €6.25M TRAIN HUB IS OPENED
‘There are more homes within 20 mins of Kishogue station than Killiney but no one would dare to close it’ MARK O’BRIEN
Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you
CLLR William Lavelle (FG) is calling for the urgent opening of Kishogue Railway Station, as Irish Rail continues to defer opening the unused €6.25m station that was completed in 2009. Full Story on Page 4
2 LUCAN GAZETTE 27 July 2017
SUPPORT | PROVIDERS SCEPTICAL OF GRANT SHARE’S IMPACT
Mixed local reaction to €116k childcare boost --------------------------
MARK O’BRIEN THERE has been a mixed reaction to the announcement of additional funding for childcare services in the Lucan area. It was announced last week that services in Brittas, Newcastle, Rathcoole, Saggart, Lucan, Clondalkin and Palmerstown are to receive more than €116,000 in extra funding this year. The funding will be used to provide more than new childcare places, maintenance and building work as well as outdoor play areas and is available for immediate draw-down by local providers. Welcoming the news,
‘Local childcare providers welcomed the new initiatives but said that the level of funding does not go far enough’ The funding boost of €116,000 will be used to support a diverse range of childcare works across the Lucan area
local TD and Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald said: “I hold the provision of quality, affordable and accessible childcare as a very highest priority; ensuring local children get the very
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best start in life. “This financial boost comes at a key moment in Ireland’s move to accessible, affordable quality childcare. “My Cabinet colleague,
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Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone, said €8.4m in capital funding has been allocated through the Department of Children and Youth Affairs to 683 pre-school providers nationwide – an increase in €4.4m on the amount announced for this programme in March.” It was also announced that from September there would be a universal subsidy of €1,040 per year for children up to the free pre-school year programme. There will also be supports of up €7,500 for families on low incomes. Local childcare providers welcomed these initiatives but said that the level of funding does not go far enough. L y n n O ’ D w y e r, a member of Private Early Education Providers and the owner of Sunflowers Childcare in Ballyowen, told The Gazette that she wasn’t able to apply for any of the grants on offer and she felt there was too much emphasis on inspection and not enough on training. She said: “The bottom line is the Government just isn’t funding childcare to the level it should be. “We’re bottom of the OECD table in terms of financing childcare and an enormous amount of that funding that is going into childcare is not going in at grassroots level, it’s
going in at inspection level. “It’s not even going in to training staff. They’re trying to improve the quality by inspection, and really that’s not a proven method of improving [the] quality of provision.” Tina Foster, of Reata Montessori, received a grant of almost €5,000 to improve her outdoor play areas and while she said she was delighted with the grant, she also believed that the childcare sector remains severely underfunded. She said: “All areas of childcare have been underfunded. Katherine Zappone, I don’t know what she’s thinking but she’s expecting us to run high-quality services on very little funding, and we’re not getting paid enough to run the service. “Then they can send people out to inspect us and tell us what we’re doing wrong and put us down as non-compliant for stupid things.”
Response In response to local concerns, Minister for Children Dr Katherine Zappone told The Gazette: “There can be no compromise on child safety. Inspections and training are important to ensure that. My Department supports the training of childcare providers and is the leader on this ... “Having said that, changing the most expensive childcare system in the world into the best was never going to be easy, nor would it happen in one budget ... “[This] is why I am working with the sector to try to secure more funding so we can finally deliver the accessible, affordable, quality childcare system which parents, providers and most importantly children deserve.”
FASTNews
Dail together to visit the centre of our government THESE members of Lucan Youth Fun were clearly delighted with their recent treat of a trip to the Dail to see how our national parliament works. The trip was organised by local TD, Gino Kenny (PBP), who said: “I was delighted to facilitate a large contingent of young people from Lucan Youth Fun visiting the Dail. Lucan Youth Fun is a fantastic organisation that runs throughout the summer for young people from Lucan.” The youngsters enjoyed their tour, with many praising the great (and sometimes amusing) insights from their guides around the historic building.
The 2017 festival’s line-up could be the very best yet THE Lucan Festival organisers have announced an exciting line-up of events for this year. The festival begins on Wednesday, September 6 when local poet Eamonn Lynskey reads from his recently published book, It’s Time, in Lucan Library at 6.30pm. The next day, there will be a guided tour of Historic Lucan Village, as well as a talk on the campaign for women to be allowed to vote. Primary schoolchildren can discuss senior citizens’s memories of their schooldays on Friday morning, with this to be followed by a spectacular fireworks display at the weir later that evening. On Saturday, September 9, a host of fantastic events will include a walk in the grounds of Lucan House, and a display by the Black Knights parachute team. Then, Main Street will be closed to through traffic from 11am to 7 pm on Sunday, September 10 as the festival closes with a dizzying range of fun, family-friendly events for all to enjoy, while Lucan Garda Station will also host its annual open day.
Lucan Community College extension gets approved PLANNING permission has been granted for the extension of Lucan Community College, to include a new library, larger canteen facilities, a full-sized PE hall, a fitness suite, new computer rooms and a dedicated special needs unit. The chairman of the Board of Management, Cllr William Lavelle (FG) said: “I hope we can shortly see the project moving to the next stage so that building works can start at the earliest possible date.” 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
27 July 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 3
PEOPLE | MEET THE DUB WHO MAKES 50-60 DELICIOUS MEALS A WEEK FOR HOMELESS PEOPLE
CURRY ON CARING EMMA NOLAN
Retired Ballyfermot man Brian Birkett learned to make curries when he worked for an Indian restaurant – now he prepares up to 60 meals a week for Dublin’s homeless. Picture: A LENDING HAND
A SELFLESS Dubliner has gone viral after photos of him cooking mouth-watering curries for the homeless were shared online. Retired Ballyfermot man Brian Birkett (65) is being hailed as an “inspiration” for his dedication to making up to SIXTY hot meals for Dublin’s homeless every Monday night on Dame St. He joked: “I hear Conor McGregor’s getting a bit upset about all the publicity I’m getting!” Brian told The Gazette he’s been “inundated” with calls since the photo went viral, but he’s just happy that the homeless crisis is being addressed. “It needs to be highlighted as much as possible,” said Brian, who volunteers with homeless charity A Lending Hand. “I’m delighted [with the publicity] and I couldn’t sing A Lending Hand’s praises enough.” The charity – set up by Coolock woman Keira Gill – is dedicated to providing food and other essentials to homeless people, and Brian’s become well-known for the delicious curries he’s been making for the past year and a half. “They don’t last 10 minutes!” Keira said of the 4-in-1s which contain chips, rice, chicken and curry sauce. “They know he’s coming and everyone asks, ‘Where’s Brian with the curries?’”
On Facebook last Monday, A Lending Hand posted a photo of Brian preparing his curries, adding that he needed a lift from Ballyfermot to Dame St. Within hours, the post had gone viral and he was inundated with offers to help. However, Keira and Brian said support for A Lending Hand has dwindled in recent months and donations of food had slowed, leaving volunteers footing the bill all on their own. Brian explained: “People used to call to my house with chicken fillets; one woman used to give me a sack of rice every two months and we were ticking over – but it seems like people thought the homeless crisis was sorted after Apollo House. But it’s still snowballing.” When Brian first volunteered he made sandwiches, but decided to start making hot meals once he realised the scale of the problem. “I was years working in an Indian restaurant where a Pakistani chef thought me how to make curries and I helped him learn English so my talents came in handy when I decided to have a go at making the curries,” he said. “Each one of those little tubs is a meal in itself.” “He’s a legend,” added Keira. “He’s famous, I said I’m going to have to ask him for his autograph now! “He’s a brilliant person.”
4 LUCAN GAZETTE 27 July 2017
TRANSPORT | COMPANY REJECTS WILLIAM LAVELLE’S CALLS FOR URGENT OPENING
Irish Rail defend ongoing Kishogue station closure MARK O’BRIEN CLLR William Lavelle (FG) has called for the urgent opening of Kishogue Railway Station (right), which remains unopened since being completed at a cost of €6.25 million in 2009. Irish Rail said that a decision was taken not to open the station due to the downturn in economic activity at the time, which led to anticipated resi-
Picture: Wikipedia
dential developments not being built. The station remains unopened with Irish Rail claiming that there were not enough people living
near the station to make it viable to open. The Dublin Transport Office had forecast that 11,500 people would be living within 800 metres of
the station by 2016. However, documents obtained by Cllr Lavelle under the FOI Act and seen by The Gazette show that there are 2,794 residential units with a population of 9,302 people living within 20 minutes’ walk of the station. Cllr Lavelle feels this population level was sufficient to justify opening the dormant station. He said: “There are more houses located within 20 minutes of Kishogue than within 20 minutes of Killiney station, but nobody would dare close Killiney. “Since the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) push for housing to be located within 20 minutes’ walks of public transport, I cannot understand
why the residents of 2,800 houses in Lucan should be treated any different?” The station has no permanent car park and Irish Rail estimate that it would cost €2 million to build one. Additional journey times of two to three minutes for existing commuters on the Kildare Railway line were also cited as a reason for not opening the station. Irish Rail say that they feel that this additional journey time would lead to a loss of revenue and estimate that the additional costs of opening the station, coupled with the estimated loss of revenue, would be a further €500,000. There is a temporary car park located to the north-west of the station and internal Irish Rail and NTA documents show that this car park could be brought up to the required standard for between €50,000 and €60,000. This correspondence also states that remedial works of €40,000 would
be required to bring the station up to operational standard. A land-usage licence would also need to be renewed with South Dublin County Council and Shelbourne Development, who are the owners of the land that the temporary car park is built on. The decision to open the station rests with the NTA. A spokesperson for the NTA said that the overwhelming reason that the station has not been commissioned is that the anticipated residential development that was to have taken place in the immediate vicinity had not materialised. T h e s p o ke s p e r s o n added: “It is also important to note that people in the general area have access to two nearby stations – Adamstown, 3.1km to the west, and Clondalkin/Fonthill, 2.7km to the east.” The NTA also said that the station was not designed to have a car park in the temporary location.
Square off against brilliant entrepreneurs for €50k fund THE TANAISTE and Minister for Enterprise and Innovation, Frances Fitzgerald, was joined by Minister of State for Business, Pat Breen, and several business people to launch a national search to find Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneurs of 2018 (IBYE) through Local Enterprise Offices. The closing date to enter this year’s competition is Friday, September 29, with a €50,000 county investment fund on offer to local winners and runners-up in South Dublin – part of IBYE’s investment fund of up to €2 million. For further information and to enter online, local young entrepreneurs (aged 18-35) should visit www.ibye.ie. Picture: Joe Keogh
FASTNews
Change to fuel payment is a welcome move, says Curran DEPUTY John Curran (FF) has welcomed the announcement that those in receipt of the fuel allowance payment will now be given the option to receive it in two lump sum payments. He said: “I welcome the move by the Department [of Social protection] to allow the option for the allowance to be paid in two lump sums, as opposed to a weekly payment as it is currently. This initiative will help those who wish to buy fuel in bulk, thereby potentially securing discount offers. “This is a small but welcome step by the department. However, more needs to be done to address fuel poverty and poverty in general. For too many people, there is still no recovery.”
300 Peter Mark staff honoured by company PETER Mark this week honoured 300 of its employees at a special awards ceremony in Dublin for their longstanding service and contribution to the company. The Peter Mark Long Service Awards took place at Smock Alley Theatre and recognised employees in the Leinster region who have worked at Peter Mark for 10 years or more. The company’s chief executive Peter O’Rourke said: “We are delighted to celebrate our loyal employees. “Of everyone in the room, the average length of service is 17 years which is a massive achievement in today’s world.”
27 July 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 5
6 LUCAN GAZETTE 27 July 2017
Out and About
Lucan Harriers participants at the Liberties 4 Mile
No hanging around for Lucan Harriers L
UCAN Harriers have been in flying form lately. Their athletes put in some strong performances at the first of the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon Race Series – the Fingal 10k in Swords. First man home for Lucan was Shane O’Keeffe, while first Lucan lady home was Patricia Gough. Some 17 athletes also competed in the Run the Liberties 4 Mile, a unique race that takes participants through the heart of old Dublin.
Taking part in the Fingal 10k
Elaine Hughes completing
Anita Hughes completing
Liberties 4 Mile
Liberties 4 Mile
Kim Jones at the Fingal 10k
27 July 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 7
Top talent on show
Shulammit and Aurelia
Abbey Williamson and Ellie McEvoy
L
Rachel McHugh and Grace Carney. Left: Aleah Lennon. Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON
AST week the Talented Kids Performing Arts School & Agency held a summer camp which covered classes and workshops in singing, musical theatre, modelling, dancing and drama. The children, ranging in age from age three up to 14, had an absolute ball. At the end of the week they performed some of the pieces they had learnt in a fabulous display. The camp students were also delighted to have resident teacher Johnny Ward aka Fair City bad boy Ciaran Holloway as their drama tutor. The students who ranged from beginner to advanced also included some well known faces including Susie Power (Ellie from Fair City) and Alisha Weir (Ivanka in Once the Musical currently on at the Olympia). Normal classes will resume in Scoil Mhuire School Hall from Friday, September 15. For more details please email mvwtalent@gmail.com or phone 0872480348.
Abigail Murray, Maddie Barry and Scarlet Fanning
Resident teacher Johnny Ward aka Fair City bad boy Ciaran Holloway works with students
Susie Power, Johnny Ward and Alisha Weir
8 LUCAN GAZETTE 27 July 2017
LUCAN | NEIGHBOURS INSTIGATE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST EACH OTHER
Weirview row lands rival actions before High Court MARK O’BRIEN A LUCAN man last week brought High Cour t proceedings against his neighbour in an attempt to prevent rock slides from damaging his home. Paul Lynam, of Weirview Cottages, has brought the action against Thomas Kelly, also of Weirview Cottages. Mr Lynam alleges that Mr Kelly has removed vegetation and installed an automatic watering system on an embankment of land behind Mr Lynam’s property that is owned by Mr Kelly. Mr Lynam claimed in a sworn statement that a 100kg boulder fell from the embankment and damaged decking in his back garden in May.
He also claimed that there had been an increase in rockfall since Mr Kelly removed the vegetation on the embankment. Mr Lynam hired an expert engineer, who said that it was extremely likely that the removal of the vegetation and the installation of the watering system had caused the increase in rockfalls. Mr Lynam added that he feared that somebody may be killed or injured by the rockfall and that Mr Kelly had refused his request to stop removing vegetation and using the watering system. He is seeking an injunction preventing Mr Kelly from using the watering system or removing any more vege-
tation from the embankment. Mr Justice Paul Gilligan last week granted Mr Lynam’s legal team permission to serve short notice of the injunction proceedings on Mr Kelly; however, he said he did not want to grant an injunction in the absence of Mr Kelly and adjourned the matter for a week. Mr Kelly has brought separate proceedings against Mr Lynam, seeking damages for trespass on what he claims is his land. Mr Kelly claims that Mr Lynam erected decking and a fence without permission over what Mr Kelly claims is his land. This counter-action remains before the High Court.
File photos from earlier this year showing the rear of the cottages at Weirview, and the then extent of vegetation along the embankment behind them
Tree of Hope planted to help support Lucan’s community
A TREE of Hope in memory of those who have committed suicide was planted in Griffeen Valley Park last Saturday, July 22. Cllr Ruth Nolan (Ind) requested the planting and was in attendance with Cllr Charlie O Connor (FF), who read a poem for at the event. The maple tree was donated by South Dublin County Council’s Parks department. Cllr Nolan said: “We have lost three people to suicide in Lucan recently. The tree will be a focal point in the community as a symbol to all affected
by suicide. The Tree Of Hope is planted as a symbol of support to all sadly affected by a suicide or living with mental health issues, and our hope is that as the tree grows in strength, so will the people who are hurting, and as the branches reach out, that people in a dark place will reach out to someone and ask for help.” Cllr Nolan thanked Tree of Hope founder Noeleen Fulham and her team of Ashling Stanley, Niall Fulham and Chris Collins for all of their hard work on the project.
FASTNews
Council passes trial recyling, anti-litter plan A MOTION to adopt container-deposit legislation as a pilot scheme has been unanimously passed by South Dublin County Council. The motion, brought by Cllr Ruth Nolan (I4C), aims to encourage recycling and less litter. Cllr Nolan said that similar schemes have proven to be successful in other developed countries. She said in the motion: “Reverse vending machines are common in most of these jurisdictions, taking in recyclables and refunding back cash.
‘Return rates’ “Incredible return rates are achieved in some countries, such as 100% for beer bottles in Ontario, to Iceland where 90% of aluminium cans and 87% of plastic bottles are recycled, to Finland which recycles 94% of cans and 92% of plastic bottles. “Very small deposits are the norm in most countries, ranging from less than 10 cent per item to a high of about 40 cent for large bottles in Finland – we need to do our bit in Ireland.” In response to the motion, the council said that a deposit refund scheme for recyclables may be considered by the Environment SPC as part of their 2018 Programme of Works.
27 July 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 9
10 GAZETTE 27 July 2017
Out and About
Actress Aoibhin Garrihy
Actress Cathy Belton
Jackie Harte
Stars are out for world premiere
Vincent Brightling, Pat Moylan and Ciaran Walsh. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
Aisling Holly and Lindsey Dolan
Rachel Treacy and actor Johnny Ward
T
HE world premiere of Angela’s Ashes The Musical took place at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre last week. Based on the best-selling memoir by Frank McCourt, Angela’s Ashes The Musical follows the life of an impoverished boy living in Limerick between the 1930s and 40s who dreams of something better.
Peter and Doireann Sheridan
Andrea Smith and Cathy O’Connor
Aisling Conway and Tina O’Kelly
Kathleen Watkins and Anne Friel
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 11
Rebecca Whelan, Caroline Whelan, Layla Pierce and Josephine and Deirdre Sweeney
Mia Whelan
Under the spell of an epic comedy
Stephan, Cooper, Zak, Millie and Brody Murray. Left: Andy and Darragh Preston Pictures: Brian McEvoy
C
OMEDY fans flocked to the Odeon Cinema in Point Village last week for a special invite only family preview screening of Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie. This comedy for the entire family tells the story of two overly imaginative pranksters named George and Harold, who hypnotize their principal into thinking he’s a ridiculously enthusiastic, incredibly dim witted superhero named Captain Underpants.
Amy Murtagh, Kyle Murtagh, Nicole Cranley and Ava Cranley
Aaron and Derek Wall
Radio presenter Phillip Cawley with wife Rochelle and children Abbey Burton, Linda Burton and Mia Richard and Hannah
O’Reilly
Mushiira Nawool and Aleena Nawool
Ava Norman, Avril O’Connor and Alex Norman
GAZETTE
12 GAZETTE 27 July 2017
DUBLINBUSINESS
SHORTLST: TWO DUBLINERS UP FOR A PRESTIGIOUS RETAIL WIN
Seafood experts hope to hook a top award EMMA NOLAN TWO Dubliners have made it to the BIM Seafood Retail Business Awards 2018 finals. Laura Desmond, from Reid’s Fish Market in Howth, was one of four people shortlisted under the Independent Seafood Specialist category, while Scott Smullen of Dunnes Stores in Cornelscourt was named a Supermarket Seafood Manager finalist in the competition. BIM are specifically looking for retail managers that can demonstrate successful business models, and an excellent understanding of seafood, coupled with outstanding business and sales acumen. The competition finals will take place in September when each of the finalists will present to a panel of business experts including retail mentor James Burke, entrepreneur and business-
man Bobby Kerr, financial advisor Moira Creedon, and Ronald Hovenars, a food business mentor from Holland who brings an international element of insight into progressive seafood retailing. Speaking after the announcement of the finalists, Jim O’Toole, chief executive of BIM said: “In September the finalists will need to reflect to the judges how they have implemented what they have learned through their mentoring with the experts in BIM for the benefit of the business, and how they plan to grow their businesses into the future. I wish them all the very best of luck.” The winners will receive a prize package of business supports worth €15,000 including branding and promotional advice, PR training, business mentoring and support, helping to further develop their business into the future.
No matter how great – or awful – your current job and company is, if you’re moving on continue to work as best you can, and show grace when it’s time to go
Resign with grace, and continue with a professional outlook
Finalists Laura Desmond, from Reid’s Fish Market in Howth, and Scott Smullen, of Dunnes Stores in Cornelscourt
Dublin still has a long way to improve for women entrepreneurs as city ranks 34th out of 50 cities EMMA NOLAN
DUBLIN has been ranked 34th in the top 50 Global Cities for Women Entrepreneurs. The findings were announced at the eight annual Dell Women Entrepreneur Network Summit, with the study’s results ranking cities based on the impact of local policies, programmes and characteristics in addition to national laws and customs. It found that New York City, the San Francisco Bay Area, London, Boston and Stockholm are the top-five cities for high-potential women entrepre-
While Dublin city has a number of key strengths for women entrepreneurs, the city also still faces some challenges to overcome to create a better environment for all entrepreneurs, regardless of gender
neurs. Dublin’s placement saw it just behind Nairobi and ahead of Warsaw.
The city’s notable strengths include its status as the Digital Capital of Europe, generous maternity leave policy, high-
quality education and accessibility to technology training, with areas for improvement including the city’s high cost of living and childcare supports. Elizabeth Gore, entrepreneur-in-residence at Dell, said: “Each of the cities on this list can learn from one another and encourage political change to attract and support women entrepreneurs. “The resulting change will be felt at not just a city level, but around the world as we develop an ecosystem where all entrepreneurs can thrive regardless of gender.”
YOU’VE done the interview, and aced the presentation – now you’ve been offered your dream job. The next step is informing your current employer that you’re leaving. Keep in mind that your current employer is still paying your salary and you have contractual obligations to fulfil before you leave. Even if you are really unhappy in your current job, there are benefits to managing your resignation professionally and continuing to meet the expectations of the role. You need to provide your current employer with a resignation letter. The better option in many situations is to meet with your line manager and tell them that you have decided to leave, and give them the resignation letter. In the resignation letter, it is okay to thank the employer for the oppor-
Are you ready to resign from your current job? For further information, and for help and advice in progressing your career, contact RecruitmentPlus at 01 2788 610, or see www.recruitmentplus.ie.
tunity and be positive about the time you had within the company. If you are working through a notice period, it’s good practice to continue to perform. It is also an opportunity to prepare good handover notes and help your current employer to transition as easily as possible. Try and give your employer as much time as you can to find a replacement. If your current employer is hostile to your departure, you don’t have to mirror this behaviour. There are benefits to maintaining a high-performance level through to your last day. You don’t know what path your career will take, and you may encounter some of your colleagues again in another organisation. Your legacy and references will be impacted by your exit strategy, so handle it professionally, discreetly and with grace.
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 13
MOTORING: FORD FIESTA P22
CINEMA: DUNKIRK P24
DUBLINLIFE Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
LET LADY BRING SOME ADVENTURE TO YOUR LIFE OUR Dog of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* is Lady. Lady is a beautiful female Rottweiler aged 5. She is an amazing dog in every way and she loves people and other dogs. She loves cuddles and attention from people and loves making new friends. Lady really enjoys an adventure and loves travelling in the car. She is very playful and loves a game of tug and her tennis balls. Like her name, she is a real Lady and likes to be clean and tidy and just loves to be brushed, she also loves her comforts and likes to chill in a nice, cosy soft bed. Lady is looking for an active family that will take her on day trips where she can potter around and enjoy life. Lady can live with children who are at least 10 years of age and she would also be willing to share her home with another playful dog! If you can be Lady’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, atfacebook. com/dogstrust irelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE.
GAZETTE
STYLE: DRESSING UP P18
A voice of reason JAMES HENDICOTT YOU most likely know Rubberbandits for something daft. It might be that Horse Outside video, their numerous appearances on RTE’s Republic of Telly, or an episode of Rubberbandits Guide To. You might even remember their Channel 4 outing with the Almost Impossible Gameshow. In the latter, they had contestants complete ludicrous mini-games like “groin croissant”, in which the frustrated participants had a few seconds to shake free a plastic pastry attached to a certain part of the outside of their jumpsuit with velcro. Continued on Page 16
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DUBLINLIFE
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT AND HELP IN RACE FOR A CURE
CITYWEST HOTEL HAS IT ALL FOR SOME SUMMER FAMILY FUN
doors. Visit citywesthotel. com for more info.
AROUND 2,800 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and on September 9 and 10 thousands will take part in the 7th year of the Great Pink Run with Avonmore Slimline Milk to run for them. Many of those participating will wear elaborate pink costumes and paint their faces to support Breast Cancer Ireland’s pioneering research and awareness programmes nationally. Unfortunately, many people know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer and the Great Pink Run is an opportunity to come out and show support by running, walking or jogging for them. Registrations are now open at www.greatpinkrun.ie.
LOOKING for some summer family activities? The Citywest Hotel has just launched their summer family fun activities programme. Packages start from €372 for a family of four to include two nights B&B including dinner in the new Woodlock Brasserie, children’s activities and full access to the leisure facilities. Until August 27, guests are invited to partake in a full programme of family fun activities, events and classes that will cater for all the family. Citywest Hotel will host cupcake classes, pizza parties, disco and karaoke and a fairy trail, where parents and children can make their evening stroll more exciting by going on the hunt for the hotel’s fairy
JOIN DAY-LONG FUNDRAISER TO HELP KICK CANCER’S BUTT ON July 29, a day-long fundraiser called Kick Cancer in the Butt will celebrate Saggart-native Jimmy Byrne. This is the fourth year of this popular event organised by Ruth Devoy, from Rathcoole, which celebrates Jimmy’s life. “I was inspired to run this event because of first-hand experience of the great work of the hospice from the care received by friends and family. “Last year with the help of family, friends and hundreds of generous supporters over €16,000 was raised for Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services and we hope to do even better this year,” she said. All funds raised will provide essential equipment
DIARY DIARY for the patients of Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services. For details, contact Clare Farrelly at 085-7735010 or visit www.facebook.com/ kickcancerinthebutt/
IT’S ALWAYS TIME TO LOOK OUT FOR SCAMS TIME’S almost up on Scam Awareness Month – but OFTEC, which represents the domestic oil and heating industry, are urging everyone to stay alert whenever anyone calls to the front door. As this July was marked as the group’s month to
Lucy and Kate Dowling and Olympian Sonia O’Sullivan who will lead out the Great Pink Run. Picture: PAT MOORE
Pink power
be extra aware of some common doorstep scams, OFTEC want everyone to remember its warnings all year round, and to keep the heat on any scammers at your door! One of the main things to look out for is the right OFTEC accreditation, with certified technicians and installers required to have the official identity badge to prove it. W hile thoughts of oil heating and top-ups may not be at the top of your to-do list right now, OFTEC hopes everyone will remember to look out for scammers at any time of the year.
COMPETITION TO CELEBRATE KIDS’ CREATIVITY THIS summer, proud parents across Ireland and the UK will have the opportunity to see their child’s drawings displayed for all to see. In partnership with Mumsnet, BIC KIDS is launching a competition celebrating kids’ creativity by taking their drawings beyond the fridge door, putting 10 lucky winners’ works of art on billboards nationwide. Running from July 17 to August 6, the competition is open to all aged 5-11. To enter, parents sim-
ply need to take a photo of their child’s drawing and upload it to the native discussion page on the Mumsnet website by Sunday, August 6. Entries will then be judged by an expert panel of creatives from the marketing, publishing and illustration industries, before winners are notified and the billboards launched in September. For more information visit mumsnet.com.
THIRTEEN DUBLIN BANDS AMONG PICNIC SHORTLIST THIRTEEN Dublin bands are amongst the 30 shortlisted acts for the 2FM Play
Citywest has a huge choice of activities for a fantastic family break
The Picnic Competition, with the Top 10 acts getting to play at Electric Picnic this September. The voting text line is open until Friday, July 28, for this competition run in conjunction with Festival Republic, Jack & Jill and RTE 2fm on www.2fm.ie. The final 10 acts will get to Play the Picnic tent at Electric Picnic, with the overall winner also getting to play the Cosby Stage at Electric Picnic and winning a full day studio session at RTE’s state-of-the-art recording studio. The Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation is the charity partner benefiting from this campaign. It provides home nursing care and respite to sick kids and the charity has supported 2,200 children nationwide since 1997. As well as voting for their favourite unsigned band, texters are in with a chance of winning tickets to Electric Picnic by simply texting the word PICNIC followed by the number assigned to your favourite act and the text costs €2 and Jack & Jill will receive a minimum of €1.63. See https://2fm.rte. ie/2017/06/06/2fm-playpicnic-2017/ for the bands and their codes.
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 15
SEARCH: TV3 LOOKING FOR NEW TV WATCHERS FOR ITS NEXT GOGGLEBOX IRELAND SERIES
GAZETTE
FEATURES
Tune in to ... you on the telly? DO YOU laugh at your own jokes, or do your friends hang on your every word? If so, and if you think you and your family or your friend’s witty banter needs to be shared with the world, Gogglebox Ireland is back this autumn and TV3 are on the look-out for some new faces (and their sofas) to join Ireland’s most opinionated TV fans. For the brand-new series, TV3 bosses are looking for long-term couples, brothers and sisters, retired people, sporty lads – they’re even looking out for
-------------------------
TV3 bosses are even looking out for any funny nuns or priests to take part in the next series -------------------------
the clergy, so if you know any funny nuns or priests (or are one yourself) ... The last season saw the country laugh along with some hilarious, highly-opinionated households like pals Tracie and Anita from The Liberties, best friends
Previous Goggleboxers (clockwise from top left) Angela and Aileen, The Gruffertys, The Tully Twins and ‘The Cabra Girls’: Jamie, Lindsay, Ashley and Grainne
Angela and Eileen from Castleknock, and John and Dave from Dublin 8, as well as a whole host of other people. If you think you’ve got what it takes, email casting@kiteentertainment.com, and tell them who’s in your group, where you’re based, what you like to watch together, and a group photo of yourselves if possible.
You could end up ‘on the telly’ too if you apply for the show
Raptors wing it to the skies over Tayto Park NAME NAME
Birds of prey and other exotic species can now be spotted at Tayto Park’s expanded park
SOME 20 rare birds of prey are now living at Tayto Park as part of its World of Raptors exhibit. The park’s brand-new open air seating arena is home to the exhibit which gives visitors a very rare up close and personal experience with the magnificent species, with various species of eagles, owls, vultures and falcons from all across the world taking part in a freeflying demonstration at the arena. Not only can visitors enjoy the aerial displays featuring the world’s largest eagles and fastest birds of prey, as well as impressive vultures and iconic owls, they also learn all about these birds with educational talks from the
bird of prey team. Speaking on the latest attraction at Tayto Park, a team spokesperson said: “We’re very excited for the opening of World of Raptors. It’s been a very busy time getting all the birds fit and ready for the display, so it’s great the time is finally here for the opening. “Working with raptors is a very special job and we’re lucky to get to share our work with everyone that visits. It’s amazing getting to see them grow and express their natural behaviours, just as they would do in the wild.” World of Raptors opened on July 20 with falconry displays and educational talks taking place twice daily at Tayto Park. For further information and opening hours, see www.taytopark.ie/themepark/world-of-raptors.
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 17
DUBLINLIFE
N O S ’ T A H W
E D I U G S T N E EV with JAMES HENDICOTT
Newmarket Flea Market
The best of the Dublin 8 square’s monthly rotation of events, the Flea Market sprawls across the Food Co-Op, the Green Door Market and the Newmarket square, with bric-a-brac and vintage clothing to explore. July 30.
Why Rubberbandits Matter...
Hotter Than July
A world music festival hosted in Smithfield, this free event on the square features music from Ghana, Saudi Arabia, Palestine and more, as well as stacks of kids entertainment. July 30, 3pm to 9pm.
Out To Lunch All Day Party
HOTTER THAN JULY
Hosted somewhere in Howth - the precise spot is secret until nearer the time - the Out To Lunch All Day Party is divided into ‘home’ (Dublin acts) and ‘away’ (those who are just visiting). It has a distinctly dancy flavour. July 29
Head Stuff Lectures
The 12th and latest in the popular series of talks sees half a dozen people stand up and talk about anything that happens to take their fancy. Think TED Talks with an Irish flavour. Times of Ireland journalist Ellen Coyne is amongst the stars. August 2.
Howth Trad Fest
The peninsula will bring eight venues to life over an extended bank holiday weekend as the likes of Kila, Declan O’Rourke and Andy Irvine take to a Smithwick’s trail. The festival will also feature outdoor performances and a nice selection of free gigs to get your teeth into. June 2-5.
‘Malahide Has It’ Festival
Malahide’s own music festival is a family friendly offering featuring barbeque on the beach, food stalls, lively entertainment and lots of other family-leaning fun, bringing out the best of the town. July 28-30.
Big Bang Festival
Meeting House Square in Temple Bar comes alive with a selection of dancers performing on July 30, taking in styles ranging from Palestinian Dabke dance to a form inspired by a range of African adventures. One to get the feet tapping.
Manchester United v Sampdoria
The Manchester United pre-season tour stops off at the Aviva, with legendary Italian club Sampdoria the opposition. The quality of sides appearing at these friendlies can vary substantially from the first team, but expect a few stars to turn up on August 2.
New album of the week
Arcade Fire - Everything Now. Canadian indie stars return with another dose of their swirling brand of driving melody and subtle harmonies, having made many of the album announcements in the run up to ‘Everything Now’ through a Twitter account disguised as a Russian spambot.
Picture: Graham Keogh
MUSIC
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16 GAZETTE 27 July 2017
It’s high time the comedy hip-hop stars were given credit for their insight and intelligence JAMES HENDICOTT They are, in short, quite exceptionally silly. But their satire also has a tendency to shine a light on Irish society. Put aside the croissant shaking, or songs about Spastic Hawks, and some corners of their professional output is subtly but brilliantly political. They take a satirical look at race relations on Black Man. Spoiling Ivan documents the friendship between a grown man and a child, playing off the inbuilt societal assumption that labels such a friendship as somehow wrong. There’s even an ode to holding off on sex, and its relationship benefits. Far beyond the music, their use of social media, and public comments on sensitive issues have stretched in scope and become ever-more assured. It’s a trend that seemed to really kick off when Blindboy Boatclub called into Joe Duffy to debate the drug references in Horse Outside. In doing so, he absolutely shredded an irate caller, confidently explaining the duo’s thinking in the process. There’s a certain confidence that comes with addressing serious issues anonymously from behind the mask of a holey plastic bag. By engaging with Blindboy (who tends to be the louder of the pair on the issues), it’s very difficult for a TD, for example, to come out well. That Blindboy’s angles are so astute and well reasoned is one thing. He’s also advantaged by the very nature of the argument: should a rival outwit the rapper (and it’s rare), they are nevertheless arguing with a silly comedian, typically topless from the waist up, and facially ensconced in a plastic bag. And the man in the bag usually comes off the more reasoned and intelligent. From such a platform, The Rubberbandits in particular through their social media - have loudly railed against perceived injustices, and done so to huge audiences. Their Facebook alone, for example, has 420,000 followers. Last week, they posted: “Something tells me we’re going to look back on direct provision centres in the same way we now look back on abusive catholic institutions.” There’s no joke there. No punchline. It’s a direct railing against a Government policy stated succinctly and potently. They went on to get involved in the replies, articulately explaining their reasoning, and encouraging readers to get in contact with their TDs about the issue. Over 2,000 different readers engaged with the post. Just inside the last month, they’ve posted - in amongst pleas for help finding a missing cat, and a handful of comedy skits - a similarly strong message encouraging Leo Varadkar to
work on mental health and housing issues. They’ve extolled the virtues of a “snowflake” generation, talking of the mental health benefits that come from being open about feelings. They waded into the Herald’s mistaken use of a picture of rapper Stormzy in place of Romelu Lukaku, pointing out hypocrisies to those playing down the significance of the error. This stuff, clearly, is way beyond the normal remit of a comedy act. They’ve moved realms, in a sense, to a world where they’ve learnt they can punch above their weight. In doing so, the Rubberbandits have become a serious voice for socially liberal, left-wing values, one that can seem oddly lacking amongst the political classes. Hip-hop - especially home-grown hip-hop has never held as much cultural weight in Ireland as it does today. In acts like Rusangano Family, Rejjie Snow, Lethal Dialect and Tempermental Misselayneous, there are suddenly voices willing to critique loudly in their music, and that’s progress, especially in a time of political upheaval. For all the unquestioned brilliance of Rusangano Family’s work, especially in the immigration commentary of Heathrow, Rubberbandits are the act that have crafted a public voice outside of their music, and they’re relentlessly, vocally and unapologetically opinionated. Blindboy Boatclub can seem an oddly articulate voice to those only familiar with his less serious musical output. He’s fast become one of the most astute political commentators in the country.
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18 GAZETTE 27 July 2017
DUBLINLIFE
Shoe gallery move makes it the sole stop for shoppers THE Arnotts Shoe Gallery is Ireland’s largest women’s footwear department, and now offers customers an even better shopping experience with the new department located right next to the sprawling womenswear department on Level 1. T h e new sp ace offers 3,000 different
V-neck choker slip dress €25; Ashlee faux fur coat €53
High waist skinny check leggings €31; Olive cross back satin cami top €20; Gingham print frill hem mini skirt €24; Cross front frill sleeve crop top €25
styles from 52 footwear brands, which equates to 54,000 pairs of shoes in stock! The new shoe gallery also welcomes a number of exciting new brands to the womenswear shoe collection this season, including French footwear brand Jonak, and the worldrenowned footwear brand Michael Kors.
Colour Infusion cuff €49
Mermaid €36
Charming bangles from Alex & Ani
Paisley printed cami maxi €38; Wrap flute sleeve dress €29
Starfish €41
What Is For You Will Not Pass You €41 WHETHER it’s a confirmation, wedding, festival, summer holiday or if you’re just looking for a thoughtful gift, ALEX AND ANI have a bangle for every occasion. From meaningful charms to that perfect pop of summer colour, here are our summer picks for the brand, which is available in Kilkenny Shop, Arnotts, Weirs & Sons and jewellery stores nationwide.
V-neck tea dress €27
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 19
resses.ie Dto impresss
for summer
High waist skinny check leggings €31; Olive cross back satin cami top €20; Gingham print frill hem mini skirt €24; Cross front frill sleeve crop top €25
EMMA NOLAN Style Editor
a one-stop-shop for cute playsuits and dresses from just €25 to see you through Electric Picnic. Visit dresses.ie today for their full range.
Embroidered denim jacket €55
Su The ede B re are hee ly ls € 34
Ro The se g re old hee Bar ls € ely 33
IRISH brand dresses.ie has dropped its high summer collection. This affordable
range is available online only and includes the latest seasonal trends, from gingham to ruffles. Need a few festival outfits? This website is
Embroidered mesh cami dress €35
Monochrome wrap playsuit €27
Tie sleeve cold shoulder dress €25
Ruffle cold shoulder mini dress €32
GAZETTE
STYLE
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20 GAZETTE 27 July 2017
DUBLINLIFE
FOOD&DRINK
Making mouthwatering mini meringues is so easy INJECT a burst of colour to your dessert this summer by whipping up a batch of these adorable and delightful summer-inspired mini meringues. This simple dessert, courtesy of our friends at Siucra, will create a firework display of colour and flavour for your next summer soiree. Ask the kids to help you with the toppings for this tasty combination of different flavoured meringues, with this recipe making about 40-60 mini meringues.
Ingredients (for the mini meringues) 4-5 egg whites (about 150g) 300g Siucra Granulated Sugar Half tsp vinegar Piping bag Ingredients (for the colours and toppings) 2 tbsp lemon zest 50g desiccated coconut 3 tbsp freeze-dried raspberries 3 tbsp cocoa Yellow, red and pink food colouring Edible glitter Preparation Preheat the oven to 200c. Line a baking tray
(30x40cm) with parchment paper, pour the sugar onto it and place in the oven for about five minutes. Meanwhile, whisk the egg whites into firm white peaks, then take the sugar out of the oven and lower the heat to 100C. Continue whisking the egg whites at high speed and add the hot sugar a little at a time. Following this, add the vinegar. Whisk at maximum speed for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture is opaque and completely stiff. Add flavourings as desired. Click or pipe out small meringues, then bake in the oven for three hours. Next switch off the oven and leave the meringues in the residual heat for a few hours, until they are completely dry.
Add flavourings as desired 2 tbsp lemon zest, yellow food colouring. 50g desiccated coconut, half added to the meringue mixture and half scattered over the top. 3 tbsp freeze-dried raspberries, red/pink food colouring. About 3 tbsp cocoa, 1 tbsp folded into the mixture and 2 tbsp scattered over the meringues. Sprinkle with edible glitter to add a magical touch. Serve, and enjoy!
A Dory-licious dish EMMA NOLAN IRELAND’S 10 semifinalists for the S Pellegrino Young Chef 2018 competition have been announced, with Romuald Bukaty (right) from Swords in with a chance of winning. The finalists have been selected from thousands of applications submitted by young chefs from more than 90 different countries, all looking for their chance to be part of S Pellegrino’s global
talent search for the world’s best young chef. Romuald Bukaty is chef de partie at The Clayton Hotel, Dublin Airport, and his dish is, Hey John Dory (above). Each young chef’s application and signature dish was evalu-
ated by experts at the world’s leading international educational and training centre for Italian cuisine, ALMA, in charge of the local finalist selection. The experts of ALMA evaluated the applications in adherence to its five golden rules relating to ingredients, skill, genius, beauty and message. The semi-finalists of each region will compete in local challenges until this December. Best of luck, Romuald!
ChanChan adds Korean Hot Pepper to spice up Irish fast-food favourite EMMA NOLAN ATTENTION, spice bag lovers! The Dublin delicacy has become even spicier with the introduction of a Korean Hot Pepper version of the ChanChan Spice Bag
Seasoning Mix. The original ChanChan Spice Bag Mix caused a stir when it launched, allowing people to make their own healthier at-home versions of this now iconic Irish fast-food dish.
It is now available from even more retailers across Ireland, and is now joined by a spicier version with added Korean Hot Pepper. Known as the flavour of Hong Kong and created by Chef Kwanghi from
an original mix of spices and herbs for an authentic flavour, the seasoning mixes taste good on pretty much everything. They’re also MSG-free and priced at just €2.95 for a tub containing 50 servings.
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 21
TravelShorts
Travelmood deals to whisk you off to the summer sun (even in Jan!)
IF YOU’VE ever wanted to see the world, worldwide holiday specialists Travelmood have just the thing for you. From Mauritius and the Dominican Republic to South Africa and Thailand, Travelmood has your holiday needs well and truly covered, with destinations jampacked with experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Go all-inclusive in Mauritius and the Dominican Republic, or experience life in the wild on safari in Thailand or South Africa.
Thailand Spend eight nights this September at the Centara Karon Resort, Phuket, B&B, and two nights at the four-star Elephant Hills Jungle Safari, Koh Sok, on a full board basis, from only €1,389pps. Price includes return flights ex. Dublin, 10 nights’ accommodation, taxes and charges, based on two adults sharing. (Ref number:1512864.) South Africa Spend four nights next January at the four-star Southern Sun Waterfront, Cape Town, B&B, and three nights on safari at the four-star Aquila
Private Game Reserve, on a full-board basis from only €1,729pps. Price includes return flights ex. Dublin, seven nights’ accommodation, taxes and charges, based on two adults sharing. (Ref number: 1510145.)
Dominican Republic Spend seven nights next January at the fivestar Dreams Dominicus La Romana (above), on an all-inclusive basis, from only €1,889pps. Price includes return flights ex. Dublin, seven nights’ accommodation, taxes and charges, based on two adults sharing. (Ref number:1517688.) Mauritius Spend seven nights this October at the fourstar Ravenala Attitude All Suite Hotel, on an all-inclusive basis, from only €1,839pps. Price includes return flights ex. Dublin, seven nights’ accommodation, taxes and charges, based on two adults sharing. (Ref number:1512507.) For further information on these offers or to book, see www.travelmood. ie, call the team at 01 433 1063, or visit the Travelmood store at Duke Street, Dublin 2, just off Grafton Street.
GAZETTE
TRAVEL
Wave blues away with a staycation Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa in west Cork offers an idylllic setting - and sheer luxury – for a perfect, relaxing staycation
SYLVIA POWNALL Travel Editor
IF THE word ‘staycation’ conjures up memories of rain pounding the roof of your leaky caravan as you lament the lack of WiFi, then maybe you should think again. This summer, why not take in a spot of motor yachting, whale watching or even kayaking under the stars – all within a train ride of the capital? Fancy having a whale of a time? Then head to Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa in west Cork where guests can enjoy a two-night package including a close-up of the abundant marine life. The offer includes two nights in a deluxe room with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, breakfast each morning in the Gulfstream Restaurant, and access to the heated seawater therapy pool, hammam and relaxation areas. While the fresh sea air and stunning coastal views are breath-taking in themselves, you can further explore wild West Cork’s coast with a halfday whale watching trip from Baltimore with Dr Nic Slocum. Guests have been known to spot (right) fin whales, humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins, basking sharks and porpoise, all while taking in the gorgeous scenery. The package
costs from €240PPS. With a stunning location overlooking two magnificent stretches of a Blue Flag beach, just outside the pretty heritage town of Clonakilty, it doesn’t get much more idyllic than this. Visit www.inchydoneyisland.com for more. A summer break at the newly refurbished Radisson Blu Hotel in Athlone is highly recommended, and a motor yacht cruise along the river Shannon with a bottle of bubbles is the perfect way to take in the sights. Afterwards, stroll around the town or sit with something chilled to drink in the Quayside Bar & Lounge or out on the sundrenched terrace
You could have a whale of a time wildlife spotting off the coast
overlooking Athlone Marina. Grab a summer package, including overnight accommodation for two, a delicious buffet breakfast and a choice of romantic activity for two, from €119. Call 090 644 2600 to book (w w w.radissonblu.ie/ hotel-athlone). If you’re feeling brave, why not discover Limerick city under the stars with a date on the River Shannon via The George Hotel? The four-star hotel in the heart of Limerick is the perfect base from which to explore all that the vibrant city has to offer. Start your date night in Da Vincenzos Food & Wine Hall, the hotel’s famous Italian eatery, before making your way to the River Shannon to meet the guides for a unique guided night-time kayak tour. D i s c ove r Limerick’s fascinating history under the stars as you kayak along the river in the darkness soaking up the city’s famous landmarks - including the impressive 13th century medieval King John’s Castle. A Date Night on the River
Shannon package is priced from €153PPS and includes overnight accommodation in one of the stylish and contemporary bedrooms, a three-course dinner in Da Vincenzos Food & Wine
Enjoy a suite break away in the comfort of the Radisson Blu Hotel Athlone (above) or The George Hotel in Limerick
Hall, night kayaking on the River Shannon, a complimentary drink on your return, cupcakes in your bedroom, freshly prepared breakfast the following morning and a late check out. For more information or to book, see www.georgelimerick.com or call 061 460 400.
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22 GAZETTE 27 July 2017
DUBLINLIFE
FASTNews
Fuel prices drop for fourth month in a row, AA finds PETROL and diesel prices have dropped for the fourth
successive month, according to AA Ireland. On average a litre of petrol now costs 131.9c, while a litre of diesel will cost 119.2c down from June’s prices of 134.3c and 122.2c per litre respectively. The latest drop marks the fourth successive month in which prices have fallen, with the cost of a litre of now at its lowest since December 2016 while diesel is at its least expensive since October of last year. “The last several months have brought good news for motorists when it comes to fuel prices and July has, thankfully, continued that trend,” Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs stated. “With the cost of a litre of fuel continuing to fall prices are moving closer and closer to where they were 12 months ago, with petrol prices just 0.6 per litre more expensive than it was in July 2016, although diesel is still almost 3c up on this time last year. Despite the drop in fuel prices, the motoring organisation has highlighted that the extent to which fuel is taxed in Ireland only serves to make it tougher for people who rely on their car to commute to work.
New Velar SUV unveiled THE fourth member of the Range Rover family, the new Velar, has now arrived in Ireland. The new addition sits between the Evoque and the Sport. This is a new mid-size luxury SUV that claims to deliver new levels of refinement, elegance and technology. There are six engine options for the Velar ranging from the 180bhp 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel with CO2 emissions from only 142g/km, to the powerful 380bhp supercharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine. The Velar comes with all-wheel drive with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics and active locking rear differential ensure all-terrain capability and claims of maximum driver engagement on-road. Built around a light aluminium-intensive body, the Velar stands out with its super-slim Matrix Laser-LED headlights and flush deployable door handles. The Velar has a towing capacity of up to 2,500kg complemented by the Advanced Tow Assist function which allows the driver to reverse the vehicle with trailer attached using the Touch Pro Duo rotary controller, and with no need to counter-steer. Velar is a stunning addition to the Range Rover family and it brings increased choice to new and existing customers in a growing SUV market.
Ford builds on Fiesta success for new future This week, Ford unveiled its new Fiesta model, due to Irish dealerships within a matter of weeks. MICHAEL MORONEY travelled to Valladolid in northern Spain to put the new car through its paces.
FOR Ford, the Fiesta is a 40-year-old success story with the car selling more than 17 million versions since its launch in the 1970’s. For the Irish market, the Fiesta is the second most popular car behind the Focus and the market leader in its segment. Replacing a successful car with a new version always requires some care and that’s why the new Fiesta for 2017 is not a radically changed one. Ford claims to have made multiple changes to the car in terms of engineering for better safety and driver comfort. There are subtle changes to the structure of the car to give it more strength, but it was the improved driving comfort that was most noticeable to me on the winding Spanish roads. I drove the new ST Line version of the Fiesta powered by a 100bhp EcoBoost petrol engine. The three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine was impressively smooth to drive and comes with ample power, even if the torque rating shows a minor drop from the current models. The end result is however a faster car with improved acceleration and marginally better economy. Ford will also offer a new 1.5 litre turbo-diesel engine in the new Fiesta and claim that it’s the most powerful diesel engine ever fitted to the car. The diesel and petrol engines are a match in
Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine Engine power 0 – 100km/hr Economy Fuel Tank Capacity CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Main Service Warranty Entry Price terms of fuel economy showing just how much progress has been made in small petrol engine design. For the Irish market, Ford expects that the new 1.1 litre petrol engine will be the most popular and this will be the entry model in terms of pricing. Ford claims that fuel efficiency is fur ther enhanced with Auto Start Stop technology offered for all engines and Active Grille Shutter for 1.0-litre EcoBoost and 85 PS 1.5litre TDCi engines.
are designed to enhance Fiesta comfort, convenience and safety but they are not available in all 1.0 litre models from the entry 100hp level. 10.5 seconds The Fiesta does come 28m/litre (4.7/100km with a lane departure system and speed limiter or 78.5mpg) on all models, which will 42 litres enhance the car’s oppor97g/km tunity to achieve a Euro A2 €180 NCAP 5 star safety rating 20,000km/12 months when its tested. 5 years /100,000km For those who opt for the full technology pack, €16,650 there is an advanced driver assistance system supportThe Fiesta comes with a ed by two cameras, three new Eco button for man- radars and 12 ultrasonic ual transmissions which sensors. In combination adjusts engine and throt- these are able to monitor tle settings to help drivers 360 degrees around the save even more fuel. vehicle, and scan the road There is also a new six- ahead up to a distance of speed manual gearbox 130 metres, that’s more that I found to be espe- than the length of a footcially easy to use. ball pitch. Ford also claims that the This new Fiesta is the Fiesta delivers the most first Ford to deliver an sophisticated range of enhanced version of driver assistance technolo- Pre-Collision Assist with gies and connectivity fea- Pedestrian Detection. tures of any volume small This system can detect car on sale in Europe. people who are in or near These new technologies the road ahead, or who
may cross the vehicle’s path, using light from the Fiesta’s headlights at night. The system is designed to reduce the severity of some frontal collisions involving vehicles and pedestrians, or help drivers avoid some impacts altogether. Ford will also offer Ford’s Active Park Assist with Perpendicular Parking for the first time in a Fiesta. This helps drivers find suitable spaces and park hands free nose-totail and side-by-side with other cars. This new Fiesta will be sold across four specification levels, Zetec, Titanium, ST Line and the highest specification Vignale models. Entry prices will start at €16,650 for the base 1.1 litre petrol version, which is a mere €200 more than the current model, for a car that’s more spacious, more modern and certainly significantly safer. This Fiesta will retain its perch as the best seller in its segment.
27 July 2017 GAZETTE 23
Keep cool in the heat of summer driving
Picking up the Pace JAGUAR is predicting that its new E-Pace premium compact SUV will become its top-seller, overtaking the larger F-Pace crossover. The new smaller E-Pace is more affordable than its big brother. The E-Pace is Jaguar’s smallest SUV, and it will compete against BMW X1, Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA and forthcoming Volvo XC40. Irish prices for the E-Pace have yet to be announced. The entry E-Pace will be front-wheel drive while higher-spec models will be
offered with all-wheel drive. The standard all-wheel-drive system delivers torque to the rear wheels when needed. It will be powered by Jaguar Land Rover’s Ingenium family of four-cylinder, 2.0-litre engines. This includes three diesels and two petrol engine options. Jaguar’s larger F-Pace was its bestselling car during its fiscal year that ended in March. The company sold 67,955 F-Pace units, accounting for 39% of Jaguar’s overall
GAZETTE
MOTORING
sales of 172,848 cars during the period. The company reported that the F-Pace was the fastest-selling Jaguar in the brand’s history with more than 80,000 sold globally since April of last year. The new E-Pace will be built for all markets except China by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria as all of Jaguar Land Rover’s factories in the UK are at full capacity. It will also be built in Changshu, China, at a plant operated with joint venture partner Chery Automobile.
Summer heat, when it comes also marks the arrival of pressure cooker driving conditions. Many drivers will be taking to the road stressed by holiday deadlines, long traffic queues, overheated cars and hot tempered drivers. Here we provide some advice on dealing with road rage for riders and drivers. Be considerate. You are not the only driver or rider on the road. Swallow your pride and continue with your journey rather than getting caught up in an argument. If you are at fault admit it and apologise. Call the gardai. If you do not feel safe and feel the situation is getting beyond your control, lock your doors and get in contact with the gardai or drive to a busy location. Stay calm. Most incidents on the roads can leave you shaken, especially after a road rage situation. Before continuing your journey, why don’t you try looking for a quiet space to stop where you can breathe deeply and recollect yourself. Don’t react. If you see someone acting in an intimidating or aggressive manner, don’t make eye contact or behave in a manner that could aggravate the situation further. Resist the urge to retaliate as you can never predict how the other driver or rider will respond. Avoid it. Avoid tailgating and responding to rude gestures and remarks. Acknowledging your mistake with a cheery wave will often defuse a situation immediately.
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24 LUCAN GAZETTE 27 July 2017
DUBLINLIFE
CINEMA
DUNKIRK: FILM ABOUT INFAMOUS WW2 RETREAT JOINS THE BEST OF THE GENRE
ReelReviews
A masterful take on the legendary evacuation
IT’S CLOSE to two decades since Christopher Nolan’s debut, Following, and in the years since the director’s career has been spent playing with time and space and messing with the conventions of storytelling in mainstream cinema. He’s reinvented Batman and brought us two epics of hard-science fiction. With Dunkirk (Cert 12A, 105mins), Nolan delves into the annals of history and delivers a war film that will forever stand alongside the genre’s greats. For those not versed in the history behind the film, Dunkirk takes place on and around the beaches of the titular town in May, 1940. The German army has cut off the Allied troops from France, surrounding them on all fronts. With limited air and ground cover, an evacuation of several hundred thousand troops is attempted. Nolan arranges his war epic like a delicately woven tapestry. We follow a number of narrative strands, taking place on
MARTIN MACNAMARA
land, on sea and in the air – much like in the rhetoric of Winston Churchill’s famous speech. The structure itself takes the form of a sort of palindrome, with three separate timelines that eventually meet in the middle – one on land a week before the final evacuation, another a day before it following the journey across the channel, and also events in the air above the chaos.
Evacuation Newcomer Fionn Whitehead escapes fire on the streets of Dunkirk and makes it to the beach, where he teams up with Gibson, another young private, and the pair try to make their way aboard an evacuation vessel. Mr Dawson (a very welcome turn from Mark Rylance) takes his boat across the sea with his son
Peter and a teenage hand, George (Barry Keoghan). O n t h e i r w ay t o Dunkirk, they rescue a shell-shocked soldier (Cillian Murphy) who urges them to turn around back to England. Finally, in the air, three Spitfire pilots fly across the English Channel – another performance from behind a mask for Tom Hardy following his turn as Bane in the final part of Nolan’s Batman trilogy. These are some of Dunkirk’s most exhilarating sequences, engaging the audience while rarely leaving the space or sounds of the cockpit. As these separate narrative lines grind toward the climax like cogs in a machine, they synchronise with a powerful catharsis; an immensely satisfying conclusion and a successfully payoff for what is a considerable narrative experiment for a mainstream war film. Dunkirk delivers deeply human emotion; a remarkable and truly admirable feat for a film with little or no dialogue.
PLANET OF THE APES ‘War’ conclusion wows
AS THE final film in the successfully rebooted franchise, War for the Planet of the Apes (Cert 12A, 140 mins) puts lots of other series and other blockbusters to shame. Its terrific effects take second place to a compelling story, with Andy Serkis turning in another top-notch performance as the charismatic ape leader finally forced to turn against desperate humans.
SPIDERMAN
Still a Homecoming king SPIDEY’s fun reboot is still entertaining audiences in Homecoming (Cert 12A, 133mins), which wisely ditches all the legacy lore which everyone already knows (Uncle Ben’s murder, spider bite, blah blah) and just dumps Peter Parker straight into the action as he learns how to be a superhero, meets some legends, and otherwise does his thing without all the doom and gloom that’s weighed down too many superhero films lately.
The desperate events around the top-secret Allied retreat from Dunkirk are now passing from memory into the history books – but director Christopher Nolan’s film brilliantly brings the chaotic scenes amid the mass evacuation back to noisy, fearful life
The men portrayed on screen struggle with notions of bravery and honour; the very notion of evacuation betrays the sense of duty at the heart of all war propaganda. Accordingly, the cast – Nolan regulars, newcomers and screen Stalwarts such as Kenneth Brannagh – deliver deeply nuanced performances. Composer and frequent Nolan collaborator Hans Zimmer’s score melds
the ticking of a clock with the grinding of machinery as the film counts down toward its ultimate climax. The horizon is always visible in Dunkirk – whether it represents the safety of home, or the doom of the beaches. The enemy’s face is never seen, and is all the more terrifying for it. With practical effects and an enormous cast of extras, Dunkirk evokes the scope of classics of the
genre, creating a sweeping epic that’s yet neatly packaged into an hour and forty-five minutes. You’re unlikely to feel emotion as intensely in any other movie this year – certainly any war movie. Dunkirk stands as Nolan’s best – it’s a remarkable achievement in visceral, historical storytelling and a sure contender for next year’s award season. Verdict: 10/10
IT COMES AT NIGHT
A subtle, brilliant horror THOSE expecting a pretty standard horror will be disappointed, but It Comes at Night (Cert 15A, 92 mins) is one of the smartest and creepiest horror films of recent years. With a virus decimating the world, a small family of survivors hiding out in the woods take in another frightened family – but can they trust each other? Should they? The result will linger in the mind long after the credits.
27 July 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 25
WeeBytes
Another level of trouble for Crash Bandicoot to hotfoot his way through
Winne the Pooh falls foul of censors EVERYBODY’S favourite bear (sit down, Yogi, and you too, Boo-Boo) probably doesn’t automatically spring to mind as an internet warrior or a figurehead of online freedoms, but the beloved Disney character is now officially banned in China as the latest in a long line of innocuous things running foul of internet censors there. With Chinese netizens constantly engaged in a cat-and-mouse game with censors as they try to find gaps in the Great Firewall of China and get around internet restrictions, poor old Pooh had become a way to refer to Chinese President Xi Jinping, with the two said to look alike. As such, whenever Xi Jinping met another world leader, Chinese netizens would invariably respond with side-by-side comparison pics and memes of, say, Xi Jinping walking beside Obama versus Pooh and Tigger, and so on. Pooh is now banned, with the plump and pleasant honey-loving character a persona-non-grata (or bearsona-non-grata) in the country. One wonders what censors here might have done some time back if we’d had a cartoon bear called Biffo knocking about ...
A furly challenging reboot IT’S official – trying to make a goofy marsupial jump from pillar to pillar while a runaway boulder threatens to flatten it really isn’t as easy as it sounds, or as it used to be. That’s the formal verdict of the newly released Crash Bandicoot N.Sane Trilogy (PlayStation 4),
with tech watchers and the remake’s developers alike pointing out that Crash, the orange star of the game with a knack of getting into trouble, doesn’t quite control the same way as he used to. In short, although the rebooted game looks better than ever, and better than back around Crash’s late 1990s heyday, the controls (and collision detection) have been
SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com
updated for modern tech – and, yes, his jumps are every so slightly trickier now, adding an extra level of fun (or infuriation) to the cult platformer. Originally one of the PlayStation’s early mascots and figureheads, the wildly popular platformer had a lot of games for many years, with Crash increasingly wedged into some bizarre games, to diminishing returns. However, with his style of retro ‘screenrunner’
Elena Fisher watches Nathan Drake blunder through Crash Bandicoot on her old PlayStation - the Uncharted 4 easter egg that hinted that a remake was on the way
games largely falling out of favour, nothing much was seen of Crash for many years until a cameo appearance in 2016’s brilliant Uncharted 4. A brief in-game section with lead character
Nathan Drake playing Crash Bandicoot on his girlfriend’s original PlayStation – with both commenting on the gameplay as he/you played the game – hinted that Crash was somewhere knocking
about in development. Et voila – the recently released upgraded, rebooted collection of his first three adventures. Apart from Crash’s slightly adjusted controls, it’s a very faithful upgrade of the original games, giving Crash and his worlds additional detail and some subtle effects, affecting everything from the camera to lighting effects. Vicarious Visions have created an excellent remaster of the series, with the fun reboot doing well – while summer is a quiet time for games releases, there are still some great games out there, but the likes of the excellent Switch title, Splatoon 2, have
The Tweeters send their regards to Ed SHANE DILLON
ONE of the biggest tech stories of the past week involved Tweet machines everywhere throwing up plumes of smoke and showers of sparks as they tried to cope with the huge reaction to Ed Sheeran popping up on TVshow du jour, Game of Outwitting and Murdering All Your Enemies (or Game of Thrones, for short). The, ahem, enthusiastic response online to young Sheeran’s campfire ditty and brief mumblings as he and some other House Lannister footsoldiers innocently crossed paths with
baby-faced traveller (and one-woman-murder-machine) Arya Stark suggested that a lot of viewers suddenly had someone they hated even more than the late Ramsay Bolton (or the late High Sparrow, or the late Walder Frey, or the late – well, there’s a long list of late characters who’ve been bumped off). The show has become a stalwart of fierce online debate, analysis, response and discussion in a way that few TV or other cultural creations can achieve, becoming much more than just a pop-culture reference for Millennials or fans.
As such, the expected cameo of the singer in the long-awaited opening episode of the new series sparked a lot of intense reactions and criticism online, with Ed’s brief role – following in the footsteps of several musicians who’ve also appeared throughout the series – overshadowing reactions to the episode itself. One feels a bit sorry for the campfire crooner – at the time of writing, it was reported that Ed had temporarily closed his Twitter profile, fed up of the sea of intense abuse about his brief role which the show’s producers had set up as a surprise for
his massive fan, Maisie Williams (Arya). Whatever your views of Ed’s music – let’s just say I’m not a fan, and leave it at that – it’s silly and unfair that anyone gets hounded out of an online presence just because they’ve done something as mundane as making a brief cameo in a TV show. While it’s unlikely Ed’ll give up the day job to become a Lannister henchman, you can bet your kingdom that the show will keep sparking lots of online reactions.
been flattened by Crash’s charge to the top of the charts, boulder in tow. T he games industry is just as keen to get remakes and reboots out there as the cinema and television sectors, with older gamers likely to be interested in any reboot, while such content is new to younger gamers. Either way, if done well, such reboots are a reliable way to steer a character – and its developer and publisher – towards a nice pot of gold at the end of the release rainbow. Whether you’re an oldskool Crash fan, or this is your first run-in with the runaway rascal, it’s a fun, colourful return to form for him – just mind the gaps as you jump ... Ed Sheeran: singer, bit part actor, and now a wandering Lannister henchman
26 LUCAN GAZETTE 27 July 2017
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28 LUCAN GAZETTE 27 July 2017
SPORT
FastSport TOHILL DOUBLE IN SUPER FINAL: DUBLIN’S double European Rallycross class champion Derek Tohill had a great weekend at Mondello Park, with his Parts for Cars Fiesta taking top place in the Super Final on both days ahead of Noel Greene’s Mirage, and also finishing third each time in the Supercar Finals, which were rounds of the British Rallycross Championship. London based Limerickman Ollie O’Donovan finishing as runner up in the main reace on Saturday but his Focus tangled with another car in the semi-final and he didn’t qualify for the final, leaving current points leader Oliver Bennett to take second place after leading for half of the race. Tohill also had problems in his semi-final and had to start the final from the back of the grid, but to the delight of the large partisan crowd, he made a sensational getaway and was up to fourth place by the end of the opening lap, picking up another position during the remaining laps.
CRICKET: FINALS DRAWS NEW LEVEL OF CROWDS TO THE ALAN MURRAY CUP
Clontarf bat off Pembroke to land Leinster T20 victory
sport@dublingazette.com
CLONTARF emerged victorious from the LHK Insurance [Alan Murray] T20 League in a very close encounter with Pembroke last weekend in front of a large crowd in the ground and also via a live Youtube stream for the first time. In terms of the play, the best was kept until the last as Tarf won a pulsating final by just four runs. Batting first, as all winners on the final day of action did, Clontarf posted a total of 149/8 in their 20 overs. They might have expected more following a 71 run second wicket partnership between Andrew Poynter (52) and Brad Barnes (47). At 115/3 in the 15th over, a total around 165 might have been expected. But excellent fielding and slow bowling from Jack Balbirnie (3/16), Fiachra Tucker (0/27) and Benn Hoey (1/23) ensured that there was a very chase-able total on the board. Pembroke started well with a 55-run opening partnership in eight overs between Andrew Balbirnie (56) and Theo Lawson (26) . Balbirnie then
Clontarf celebrate their success. Picture: Deryck Vincent
shared in another 55-run partnership with Lorcan Tucker (26) which brought the score to 110 with the best part of five overs to go. But what should have proved a relatively comfortable chase proved to be anything but. Excellent death bowling by John Mooney and ‘Ropu’ Islam put massive pressure on the Pembroke batting and
in the end they came up short only managing 145/5. Earlier in the day, the finalists had reasonably easy wins over Merrion for Pembroke and The Hills v Clontarf. In the first match, Pembroke posted was seemed at the time a fairly ordinary 144/4. That they got this score was thanks again to runs from Lawson (51) and Balbirnie
(44). Tom Stanton (2/19) was the pick of the Merrion bowlers. But, in reply, Merrion’s top order never really fired and only John Anderson (44) managed to get above a run a ball. Ryan Hopkins led the Pembroke attack with the best bowling performance of the day (4/19) but it was a team effort with the five bowlers
used all playing their part. Merrion ended up 27 runs short but in truth they never really looked like chasing down the total. In the second semi-final, Tarf made 165/7 batting first thanks to a typically belligerent 59 (43 balls) from Robert Forrest. Best of the bowling came from Nazeer Shoukat (2/18) with his usual accurate spell. The response by The Hills never really got going and only Sean Terry (71) mastered the conditions and the Clontarf bowling. The most economical four overs of the day came from Mooney (1/13) and Islam (3/17). The finals weekend completed the first season of a new format for the competition with three weekends of group matches, a midweek quarterfinal and subsequent finals day in a mid-season block. T he setup was par t of attempts to raise the profile of the domestic T20 competition with the hope of knock-on success for the Irish national team, an area where they have struggled in recent years.
Leinster Lightning extinguished by the North West BERNARD DUFF sport@dublingazette.com
Leinster captain John Anderson
HAVING won ten out of the 12 trophies across all formats since 2013, the Leinster Lightning cricketers just needed to win on Friday against the North West Warriors to secure 2017’s T20 Trophy. However the men from Derry had other plans as Leinster were comprehensively outplayed in the T20 Inter-Pro at Merrion Cricket Club. In a series which has predominantly been one-way traffic in Leinster’s favour, the North West silenced the home fans as
Leinster stuttered to 26/3 off the six over powerplay. Warriors’ captain Andrew McBrine cleverly shuffled his bowlers throughout the innings. All told, McBrine employed eight bowlers in the twenty overs. The stand out was pace bowling of Craig Young who returned figures of five for 22. Although he wrapped up the tail by hitting the stumps twice in the 20th over, the damage was done earlier. Leinster’s powerful opener Andrew Balbirnie was bowled in Young’s first over for two. In Young’s second over, Simi Singh lofted the
ball to third man as he was misjudged Young’s pace. Later, in the 17th over, Young removed George Dockrell for 10 after Dockrell hadn’t cleared the mid-wicket fielder Stuart Thompson. All out for 118 meant early wickets were needed for Leinster. However Leinster captain John Anderson employed no catchers hence no pressure was exerted on the North West batsmen. They had freedom to play their shots so it was only down to a runout by Kevin O’Brien that gave Leinster their first wicket.
O’Brien neatly ran out David Rankin but, at 33/1, no comeback would happen. The two left handers Stuart Thomson and Graham Kennedy came together at 52/2 and comfortably made the game safe. A towering six over long-on by Kennedy off Dockrell in the 16th over to take the score to 98/2 was effectively the killing blow in a one-sided match. The result means that the North West cut Leinster’s lead to four points ahead of the last T20 round in the series, a tricky trip to Cork verses the Munster Reds on August 11.
27 July 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 29
GAZETTE
FASTSport
Strong Dublin crew named in women’s rugby squad IRELAND’S WOMEN’S rugby team have announced their full panel ahead of the home world cup, taking place in Dublin’s UCD and in Belfast next month. The Irish side have been making confident noises ahead of the tournament, and the 28-player panel is a strong one, seeing players returning from injury to take their place at the summer showdown. Jenny Murphy, pictured, a centre who plays her rugby with Old Belvedere (and traveled to the 2014 tournament in France, in which Ireland finished fourth) will return from injury having been cut from an earlier squad back in June. Similarly, prop Ailis Egan who also plays at Belvedere and saw herself dispatched back in June, returns to strengthen an experienced final 28, containing only a single uncapped player. Niamh Briggs captains the side, despite having been away from the Ireland panel since the November internationals, also due to injury. The other Dublin-linked players to make the final 28 are forwards Ciara Cooney (of Railway Union), Paula Fitzpatrick (St Mary’s College), Cliodhna Moloney (Railway Union), multi-sport superstar Lindsay Peat (Railway Union), MarieLouise Reilly (Old Belvedere) and Sophie Spence (Old Belvedere). In the backs, they’ll be joined by Jamie Deacon (Blackrock College), Katie Fitzhenry (Blackrock College), Nora Stapleton (Old Belvedere) and Hannah Tyrrell (Old Belvedere). At the launch event for the tournament, coach Tom Tierney said “The players have been training consistently over the past number of months, and we have had a preparation that is far more comprehensive than previous campaigns.” “The anticipation and excitement has been building steadily amongst the players and the program has provided us every opportunity, so it is now up to us to put our best foot forward during this campaign.” “The opportunity to play in a World Cup on home soil is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and while we are in a tough pool with Australia, Japan and our six nations rivals France, I am sure the players will rise to the occasion in front of their home fans.” Ireland’s Pool C games will take place at UCD Bowl, with the side facing a tough group against Australia, Japan and France.
Sothern and O’Flanagan lead double celebrations The Irish men’s and women’s hockey teams moved a giant leap closer to 2018 World Cup qualification in the past week as they both produced outstanding runs in Johannesburg STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@dublingazette.com
SHANKILL’S Alan Sothern scored the crucial goal that saw the Irish men’s hockey team qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1990 as they continue to push the boundaries for the sport. Sothern also scored a crucial goal in the Olympic qualifying process when Ireland beat Pakistan in a 1-0 victory and he repeated the feat at last Saturday’s World League Semi-Final, landing the goal that beat New Zealand to ensure a fifth place finish at the competition. It was the first time Ireland had ever beaten the blacksticks in 13 attempts and means Ireland will go to the 2018 World Cup in Bhubaneswar, India. Sothern was joined in the team by fellow Dubliners Shane O’Donoghue, Stephen Cole, Stuart Loughrey and Jamie Car.
“It was a win built on character and defence,” coach Craig Fulton said of the performance. “We wanted to come away with qualification and that’s really pleasing, it was a great squad effort.” Ireland started well with Shane O’Donoghue drawing a top block from Richard Joyce early on before having to endure sustained kiwi pressure. Hugo Inglis rattled David Harte’s near post with an absolute rocket in the first half while Hayden Phillips put a gilt-edged chance wide after the big break. By that stage, their numbers had been trimmed further with Eugene Magee going off with an ankle injury, joining John McKee – a broken collar bone victim – on the sidelines. Harte produced a double save as Ireland threw bodies on the line at regular intervals to protect their clean sheet before
nabbing their winner with 11 minutes to go. Chris Cargo’s cross was booted away by goalkeeper Devon Manchester but only as far as Sothern and the poacher supreme flicked in his third goal of the tournament. From there, they showed the battling defensive qualities that ser ved them so well against France two days earlier to get them over the line and into the World Cup. Earlier the same day, the Irish women got a huge boost in their World Cup qualification bid when Railway Union’s Grace O’Flanagan came off the bench to make a crucial penalty save in a 2-1 win over India. That turning point, though, came when number one goalkeeper Ayeisha McFerran was sent for a ten-minute suspension. O’Flanagan’s first act was to save Rani Rampal’s penalty stroke to prevent
India going 2-0 up after Gurjit Kaur’s early opening goal “It was some way to come onto the pitch and not how I expected!” O’Flanagan said afterwards. “The girls put in a superb effort throughout the match. I think we dominated throughout and I think we deserved it.” Her coach Graham Shaw agreed: “The performance from the first minute to the last was superb,” he said. “The dominance didn’t show in the first half but this team showed incredible character to go down to ten men and create so many chances. We showed that resilience to keep fighting and eventually getting too great goals.” The side featured a large Dublin-based contingent with goalscorers
Lizzie Colvin (Loreto) and Katie Mullan (UCD) turning the game around in the closing quarter. They lined out with Hermes-Monkstown’s N i k k i Ev a n s , A n n a O’Flanagan, Chloe Watkins and Sinead Loughran, UCD’s Deirdre Duke, Lena Tice and Gillia Pinder, Loreto’s Hannah Matthews, and Muckross’s Nicci Daly. In terms of the World Cup, they must now await the outcome of the continental championships over the next few months but odds are in their favour that Ireland will make the final cut. “It’s huge. This team deserve it,” Shaw added. “There is no better group of girls. They work incredibly hard on a small budget; they are part-time, working full-time and so deserve everything they get.”
Ireland’s women mob Lizzie Colvin, bottom right, Dublin trio Stuart Loughrey, Alan Sothern and Shane O’Donoghue celebrate
following her winning goal against India. Picture: Jan
Ireland’s qualification for the 2018 Hockey World Cup . Picture: Jan Kruger/Getty Images
Kruger/Getty Images
GAZETTE
30 LUCAN GAZETTE 27 July 2017
SPORT
FASTSport
SOCCER: FRIENDLY TIE UPDGRADED TO FAI SENIOR CUP SHOWDOWN
Gregan back on top form with national 400m glory BRIAN Gregan confirmed he is finally back at the races when the Tallaght man crossed the line first to take gold in the men’s 400m at the Irish Life Health National Championships at Morton Stadium last weekend. Gregan was pegged for great things as an up and coming young athlete, and after enjoying a great season in 2013, it looked like he would go on to great things. However, a change of coach and a move abroad kicked off three years of frustration for the 27-year-old. The Clonliffe Harriers athlete missed most of last season due to injury and illness but has been in fine form since returning to action and can now leave for the World Championships in London on a high after finishing in a time of 45.74 sseconds to land the Irish title for the fourth year in a row. The Harriers also experienced golden joy elsewhere, with Jeremy Phillips taking the 100m title in 10.39 and finishing second in the 200m after crossing the line in a time of 21.14 – just 0.09 outside of Gregan’s club record. Stephen Rice won the javelin after throwing 62.94, just ahead of teammate Rory Gunning’s mark of 62.35m to give him silver. Elizabeth Ariel Lieghio also took home gold after finishing first in the pole vault with a distance of 4.10m. Jayme Rossiter finished second in the 3000m steeplechase in a time of 9.18.14, while Andrii Mahin picked up bronze for third place in the triple jump with a distance of 13.70m. There were also bronze medals for Sean O’Leary in the 3000m junior men, Luke Mangan in the shot put, Leah Moore in the 100m women’s and Keith Marks in the long jump. Raheny Shamrocks also tasted gold last weekend thanks to brothers Conor and Kevin Dooney. The former finished first in the 5000m with a time of 14.25.60, while his sibling ran twice as far and crossed the line in 29.30. The club also landed three silver medals through Colm Bourke in the long jump, Kieran Kelly in the men’s 800m, and Mick Clohisey in the men’s 10000m. Dublin City Harriers won the 4x400m women’s in a close battle with St Laurence O’Toole AC that saw the Dubliners finish 0.3 seconds ahead of their rivals with a time of 4.02.48.
Bluebell United in action earlier this year against Tullamore Town in the FAI Intermediate Cup en route to Senior Cup qualification.
Bell and Sheriff up the ante KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com
BLUEBELL United’s proposed pre-season friendly game with Sheriff YC will now take on more significance as a competitive fixture after the two sides were drawn against each other for the first round of the FAI Senior Cup. Two of Dublin’s biggest teams regularly prepare for their LSL and AUL seasons with a behind closed doors clash and this season was set to be no different until the draw was announced. The game will take place
in Red Cow during the weekend of August 13 and ties in nicely with Bluebell launching the new facilities in their clubhouse over the same weekend. “It is an interesting one because it is the week before the season starts and myself and Alan Reilly, the Sheriff manager, had already booked that date in four weeks ago for a friendly,” Bluebell manager Andy Noonan explained to GazetteSport. “We are looking forward to it. Sheriff are an absolute force to be reckoned with in the AUL.
HAPPY HARRIERS Lucan embrace top notch Fingal 10k race A LARGE Lucan Harriers crew enjoyed the
Fingal 10k last weekend around the streets of Swords in what is one of traditional build-up events for the SSE Dublin marathon. Over 4,000 runners took part today in the fifth edition of the race, an increase of 10% on 2016. The second of the race series, the Frank Duffy 10 Mile will take place in the Phoenix Park on August 26. The Dublin Half Marathon will take place in a new venue in 2017, the Newbridge Demesne in Donabate. Picture: Alison O’Hanlon
Without a doubt they are one of the greatest junior sides of all time and, for ourselves, we have always been up there. We have always been challenging. “I’m going to treat it the way we were treating it [before the draw]. Are either Sheriff or Bluebell going to win the FAI Cup? No, probably not. So, we are not going to build the competition up to anything more than it is. It is going to be a great day out.” The club are upgrading the function room and putting on a family day, as well as a legends match
to encourage the Bluebell community to get back involved with the club, so the tie with Sheriff becoming a competitive fixture is a welcome edition. “I would have preferred a Premier Division side and I am slightly envious of Glenville FC getting Shamrock Rovers with the weekend that’s in it for ourselves,” said Noonan. “T he clubhouse is standing well over three decades so it needed a bit of a facelift. The function room has been completely remodelled and it is halfway through at the moment. We hope to have
a new kitchen in, and a viewing area of the football pitch so people can come and enjoy their day in the clubhouse even if the weather is in any way bad. “With the improvements we have enjoyed on the pitch, we now want the club to feel the benefits of all that so we are putting in a family room so the kids can have somewhere to play while their parents watch the football.” The club have come under a new executive committee and with other initiatives setting up the club for the new season.
27 July 2017 LUCAN GAZETTE 31
GAZETTE
SUMMER LOVING
St Pat’s camps shine under the July sun
CLUB NOTICEBOARD LUCAN SARSFIELDS
ST PAT’S Palmerstown celebrated another year of their superb summer camps last Friday following a week of action at Glenaulin Park learning the skills of the game from top class coaches. Each player received a club hoodie and got to develop their game in a fun-filled environment. It was the club’s last camp of the summer as they now look forward to the return of regular club action.
FOR the second week running, the junior
eers. Tickets can be purchased online,
footballers dominate the headlines by
at the club, in Carey’s Newsagents or in
winning the Stacy Cup 1-14 to 1-9 over
Vesey Arms or Kenny’s Bar.
St Vincent’s. The junior Bs could not
The club bar will be closed on Monday,
maintain the winning momentum in the
Tuesday and Friday nights until the end
O’Broin Cup final, losing out to Naomh
of August. Other days remain unaffect-
Olaf 1-6 to 2-14.
ed. If anyone requires the bar or func-
The car draw will take place on the night of August 26 when Aslan play at
HURLING: WALSH, COFFEY AND ALLEN SHINE IN SKY BLUE
tion room for any event, just contact bar staff on Thursday night.
Lucan Sarsfields. Tickets for Aslan are
The golf society’s latest outing was
available online from ticketmaster.ie
in Tulfarris Golf Club where the overall
while tickets for the car draw are avail-
winner was Dave Whittle (17) 37pts; BB6,
able at the club.
second overall: Billy Hayes (20) 37pts;
Ladies Football continue their cham-
BB9, Winner Category 1: Stephen Mur-
pionship run with a win over O’Tooles.
phy (14) 36pts, Winner Category 2: John
Now its knockout with Naomh Barrog on
Clancy (19) 37pts
Wednesday 7:30pm away in Pairc Barrog. Senior Hurlers were at home on
Winner Category 3: Brian Mahon (23) 26pts BB9. The next outing is in Grange Castle Golf Club on Friday, August 18.
Saturday evening last in a league fix-
The annual Family Fun day originally
ture against Naomh Olaf. Lucan finally
scheduled for Saturday, July 1 has now
seemed to wake up to the prospect of
been moved to later in the Summer.
missing out on the promotion playoff and played some class hurling winning 6:17 to 1:13.
Bingo continues on Wednesday at 8pm in the club bar. The club shop is closed for its sum-
Last week there was no winner of the
mer break. Items can still be purchased
€7,400 lotto and the numbers were 2, 5,
online or in O’Neil shop on the Long Mile
13 and 26. This week’s €7,800 draw will be
Road.
managed by Team Hugh McGonigle and is sponsored by REA MCDonald Auction-
Lucan District Credit Union Academy are also on their summer break.
ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN ST PAT’S camogie player Sadhbh Duffy
and all the coaches did great work for
played on the Dublin minor camogie
the two weeks, ensuring the children
Lucan trio to fore in runaway victory
team this week when they beat Carlow
got enjoyment from the camp and that
3-11 points to 0-6 and they are now into
all went smoothly. Thanks to everyone
the Leinster final on July 30. Fantastic
who helped behind the scenes and to
news Sadhbh and well done.
Mary and Julie who gave up their time
MINOR HC Q-FINAL
making the panel for Dublin U-17s foot-
Our golf classic takes place on Sep-
ballers against Meath on Saturday in
tember 1 at the Hermitage golf club with
the Leinster football final.
entertainment for all afterwards at the
The Dublin minor hurling side before their tie with Antrim.
Dublin 2-20 Antrim 0-11 sport@dublingazette.com
LUCAN Sarsfields trio Luke Walsh, Ben Coffey and Emmet Allen combined to help power Dublin to a comprehensive 15-point win over Antrim in Saturday’s All-Ireland MHC quarter-final at Pairc Esler, Newry. The combine for five points, added to the sterling work from Sean Currie as Dublin set up a date with Munster champions Cork in their AllIreland MHC semi-final
on Sunday, August 13 in Croke Park. The Na Fianna sharpshooter tallied a superb 2-13, 2-9 from play, in a stunning individual scoring exhibition as the young Dubs bounced back well from their Leinster MHC final disappointment. Currie, in fact, could have had a third goal but an early effort was stopped by Antrim keeper Paul McMullan. The opening exchanged were even with Tiarnan Murphy opening the scoring for Antrim before Currie opened his account.
Ben Coffey edged the Dubs in front following good work by Luke McDwyer and Currie slotted a free to extending Dublin’s lead. By the 22nd minute Dublin had moved 0-6 to 0-2 clear following two more Currie frees and a point from Liam Murphy. By the break Fintan Clandillon’s side were 0-10 to 0-3 in front after the Dubs had upped the pace with Emmet Allen, Currie (two), and Mark Grogan all on target. Antrim rallied in the third quarter to cut the gap to five points, 0-11
to 0-6, but from there on Dublin dominated. Currie struck his first goal with just over 15 minutes remaining and five minutes from time he showed his poacher’s instincts again. Elsewhere, Dublin’s under-17 hurlers have been granted a walkover from Antrim ahead of this Thursday’s scheduled All-Ireland U17HC semi-final. The Dubs will now advance into the All-Ireland decider against the winners of this Thursday night’s clash of Galway and Cork in Thurles.
A busy week for St Patrick’s senior
to step in.
hurlers who put in two great perfor-
Football quarter finals are in Croke
mances this week against Naomh Olaf’s
Park on August 5. All ticket orders had
and then Kilmacud. Unfortunately, how-
to be in before Wednesday, July 26 at
ever, they were not to come away with
5.30pm. No late orders can be accepted
the win in either match.
and all orders will be confirmed back to
Congratulations to Cian McGrane
you.
Camogie adult 7s went well again this
Hermitage clubhouse. Those interested
week with the team coming away with
in putting in teams and/or sponsorship
two draws in their games.
can contact Conor Haugh at 086 3851310
We had two very successful sum-
for full details.
mer camps this year with great num-
Lotto numbers this week were 2, 5,
bers attending. The children, from all
16 and 27. There was no winner. Next
reports, had a great time and hope-
week’s jackpot on July 31 is €2,600.
fully picked up some new skills from the coaches. Special thanks to the organising committee on a great job. Maree and Peter
Thanks to all our sellers and to those who support our lotto every week. Your continued commitment is much appreciated.
GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN BIG win for the ladies last week, beating
Busy week coming up for Intermedi-
Portobello by 2-17 to 0-1. The next fixture
ates and Juniors with each having two
after the holidays is on September 4 in
league outings. Inters are away to Bal-
the league against Lucan Sarsfields at
lyboden on Saturday in Sancta Maria
Westmanstown.
with a 6.30pm start.
GAZETTESPORT
ALL OF YOUR LUCAN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31
MINORITY REPORT: Lucan trio help to power Dublin hurlers to big All-Ireland quarter win over Antrim P31
JULY 27 - AUG 2, 2017
TARF’S BULLS ON PARADE: North Dublin side bat off the challenge of Pembroke P29
Glenville have an FAI Senior Cup date with Shamrock Rovers to look forward to
Glenville’s plum draw Palmerstown club secure lucrative date with the west Dublin kingpins Shamrock Rovers in the FAI Senior Cup to give new season impetus
KARL GRAHAM
sport@dublingazette.com
GLENVILLE FC’s 20th anniversary has been made even more special after the LSL Senior Sunday 1 side were drawn against League of Ireland Premier Division side Shamrock Rovers in the first round of the FAI Senior Cup at Tallaght Stadium. The non-league side will take to the pitch against Ireland’s most successful club during the weekend of August 13 in a game that will be perfect preparation for the start of their league campaign the following weekend. “Obviously, we are delighted,” Glenville manager Wayne Kelly told GazetteSport. “It’s funny
that it has coincided with the 20th anniversary of the club. It’s nearly on the same weekend and something special could be destined to happen. “It is a great achievement for everybody at the club and hopefully we can go there, put on a good show and give a good account of ourselves. “Also, without being too blunt, it will make money for the club and funding the club for this season and possibly next season.” Glenville will, naturally, be massive underdogs going into the game but Kelly knows that anything can happen when it comes to cup competitions. “You’ve always got a chance. Obviously, we are massive underdogs but on any given day, anything can happen so there is always that chance
that something can go your way or they may not turn up on the day. If the footballing gods are shining down on us maybe something good can happen but it would be highly unlikely.” The experience will be a first for many of Genville’s young squad and, for some, may be the only chance they get to play such opposition. “We will just tell them to enjoy it. A lot of them will probably [never experience it again]. We still have a very young team so you would hope there are some players there who are only slightly short of playing at a better level than what we are at – not to be disrespectful to the LSL. “We have a couple of players who have scored in the Europa League only a few years ago and are not too old but for whatever reason are not
playing at that level anymore but for the majority of the squad, they’ll probably never get another opportunity to play in front of a crowd in a stadium like that again.” Whatever happens in the game, it is a great chance for the Glenville players to pick up a massive confidence boost as they go in search of promotion back to the LSL’s top division. “As a manager, that is a huge factor for me coming into the start of our season and with this game being a week before the season. “Not that our lads would ever shy away from training. “But that extra competitiveness amongst the squad can only be good for our preparation for the start of the season.”