Lucan

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Lucan Gazet te FREE

March 21, 2013

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Month XX, 2012 Lucan • Palmerstown • Celbridge • Leixlip • Adamstown • Dodsboro • Liffey Valley • ballyowen

INSIDE: Lucan man urges everyone to carry an organ donor card as he recalls his life-changing op Page 9

property tax: Council set to retain 80% of monies raised from charge See Page 5

Blooming great: Orchard centre collects awards STAFF from Orchard Home and

Rugby:

Captain Coghlan hails Ireland’s Grand Slam Page 32

Soccer:

Ireland ladies reach last eight in Cyprus Page 28

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES.......................6 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................27

Garden were delighted to collect the prestigious Garden Centre of the Year award at the Bord Bia Amenity Horticulture Quality Awards recently, where the Celbridge store received a number of top accolades. Tom Griffin, Eimear Skidmore, garden manager Adrian Sharp, Erika O’Keefe, owner Gerry Dooley, Margaret Rowland, Chantel Dennis and Lydia Swindell were delighted to collect the store’s awards.

Local health centre could open this year

HSE approve new facility, to be built at Ballyowen Castle Shopping Centre

 paul hosford

A NEW primary care centre for Lucan has been approved by the HSE and could open within the year, The Gazette can reveal. The centre will be built in

the Ballyowen Castle Shopping Centre, and will serve as a multi-purpose health facility for the Greater Lucan Area. Traffic will be managed with an extra entrance to the shopping centre and

parking will be unaffected, with the centre built on supports. Deputy Derek Keating (FG) said that the facility’s arrival was “exciting”. “The development of a primary care service is an

essential component of this government’s health policy, and it will give the residents of Lucan direct access to an integrated multi-disciplinary team based in the community,” he said. Full Story on Page 8


2 LUCAN Gazette 21 March 2013

dublin GAZETTe newspapers i n f o r m at i o n

activity Volunteers sought to help out

Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 - 6010240 Dublin Gazette Newspapers publish eight weekly quality free titles, covering the greater Dublin area from Swords to Dun Laoghaire

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Joan Molloy and Mary Geagan work full time at the Lucan Youth Service

LYS give teens a vital choice IN A facility above a shopping centre in Griffeen Glen lies one of the most vibrant community resources that Lucan has. Mary Geagan, the education officer for Lucan Youth Service (LYS) says the choice they give teenagers at a youth cafe in Lucan is vital. “It is important to give young people the choice to do something, because if we told them what they were doing, they would be reluctant to stay... Our youth committee is made up of young people who choose to become leaders and choose to put in a huge amount of work,” she says. “We’re trying to pass on skills to young people. We are facilitating and upskilling young people and giving them extensive training two or three times a year.” The service has two fulltime staff, Mary and Joan Molloy, as well as three Community Employment (CE) workers and a Tus (a back-to-work programme) employee, but youth pro-

tection guidelines mean that several more volunteers are needed. “We need one adult per eight young people which, considering that we have up to 80 young people here at the cafe on Friday nights, means a big commitment by our volunteers, but we are very lucky to have the group we have.” The youth committee plans the events that take place at the Friday night MegaBites cafe, meaning another chance to engage the young people. “If they weren’t engaged, why would they bother coming?... You have to create the environment that will allow that. “The common perception is that what we do stops antisocial behaviour, but all it does is give young people a more positive option. Young people generally don’t get a great press, but I think schemes like this tackle that perception.” LYS also offers programmes six days a week

from music and cookery classes, and a place to drop in and see friends. It was recently featured on Des Bishop’s Under the Influence show, which raised questions about Ireland’s relationship with alcohol. Mary says that Bishop was hugely impressed with the contributions made by service users, but that it was a rare discussion of the topic inside the walls of Griffeen Youth Centre. “It’s not an issue for us and we don’t really talk about it all that much. It’s all a choice that the kids make.” LYS attracts young people from across Lucan, Celbridge, Kilcock and Palmerstown. To punctuate this, Mary says that a number of teens walk from Griffeen to Laraghcon each Friday, just to avail of the facility. “Ideally everything we do would be free, but we have to charge small fees because we don’t have a programme budget, but despite that we do well.”


21 March 2013 LUCAN Gazette 3

council: village renewal scheme may provide free internet access

IBTS Blood

Lucan may be on way to free wi-fi LUCAN may benefit from free village-wide wi-fi under the Village Renewal Scheme. South Dublin County Council told a recent Lucan Area Committee that proposals to install the facility may be granted under funding announced in the 2013 council budget. Cllr William Lavelle (FG) brought a request to the meeting, seeking the provision of free wi-fi in the village. “I believe free wi-fi would be a major boost for Lucan Village and for our cafes, restaurants and pubs. Free wi-fi would attract visitors to Lucan Village and would support the efforts being promoted by the Lucan Village Network,” he said.

In response to Lavelle’s motion, the council reported that funding may be made available for such a scheme under the Village Renewal Scheme, which was introduced in the 2013 council budget. “It is proposed that free public wi-fi may be rolled out as part of the Village Renewal Scheme by South Dublin County Council subject to technical and logistical considerations. The proposed solution will provide the facility to initially drive users of the service to a single webpage – customisable for advertising or local events,” said SDCC. “The logistical considerations will include multiple locations functioning as a single integrated

network, the ability to drive network traffic to a single webpage - customisable for advertising and web filtering... To this end, various models of deployment are currently being investigated and evaluated by the IT department with a view towards deploying throughout all villages which are part of the renewal scheme.” Cllr Lavelle went on to offer to facilitate contact between the counci’s IT department and local businesses and propertyowners with a view to identifying where the necessary technology could be housed, saying; “I am hopeful that this innovative project can be delivered in Lucan Village during 2013.”

Donors sought

Slainte: Marie Keating Foundation launch annual March Men’s Health Month cllr andrew montague is pictured with Lillian McGovern, chief

executive of the Marie Keating Foundation at the charity’s Men’s Health Morning, which focused on prostate cancer survival. The event, which marked the start of the foundation’s annual monthlong March Men’s Health Month, took place in the Mansion House and was proudly supported by an educational grant from Astellas Pharma Co, Ltd.

THE Irish Blood Transfusion Service Board’s mobile unit team will be at San Carlo Senior School, Leixlip/Confey on Tuesday, April 16 from 5pm to 8.30pm. Some 3,000 units of blood are needed by the IBTS each week to cater for emergency and routine cases requiring transfusions of blood and blood products in hospitals all over the country. For further information about giving blood, contact the donor services department of the transfusion service in advance of this or any mobile unit donor clinic on 1 850 731 137 or log on to the IBTS website www.giveblood.ie. You must be over 18 to give blood.


4 LUCAN Gazette 21 March 2013

council: quinn rejects criticism of school development plan

arts: €120k fund

Civic set for grant share THE Civic Theatre in Tallaght will benefit from €120,000 of Arts Council funding this year. The council says that the money means “exciting theatre, visual art, music and more” for the people of South Dublin. The funding comes through the Arts Council’s three main annual grants programmes. In addition, people in Tallaght will enjoy the arts through Ar ts Council funding for touring, projects and bursaries for talented artists throughout the year. The chairman of the

Arts Council Pat Moylan said: “We are delighted to be able to continue supporting and developing the arts in [South Dublin]. “For over 60 years the Arts Council has been at the forefront of developing and promoting the arts and even with reduced funding, the Arts Council continues to build a central place for the arts in Irish life. “As the year progresses, we will be announcing further funding to individual artists and to groups undertaking projects, festivals and other events.”

One to race over to: Announcing a €8,000 Carton House competition MODEL Rosanna Davison raced over to Carton House recently to help launch the upcoming Purple Reign event as part of the Ladbrokes Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse on Easter Monday. With Purple Reign as the theme of the Carton House Most Stylish Lady competition at the top racing event in Maynooth, Co Kildare, Rosanna and fashionista Brendan Courtney will be on the look-out for the most inspirational use of the colour purple in outfits on the day. The winning lady will receive a prize to the value of €8,000 from Carton House. For further information, see www.cartonhouse.com.

Move to overlook schools derided  paul hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

THE Department of Education has rejected criticism from local councillor William Lavelle (FG) regarding the development of primary schools in Lucan. Lavelle had put two motions down for the South Dublin County Council meetings in December and February, seeking meetings with the Education Minister Ruairi Quinn (Lab). He was asking that five Lucan schools be added to the Government’s five-year school building programme. “I am very disappointed at the Department’s refusal to meet councillors; and I am very concerned at the Department’s overall policy toward primary school development in Lucan,” he said. “Five long-established Lucan primary schools, in serious need of permanent extensions and refurbishments are being actively overlooked, while the Department proceeds with plans to build yet another new school,” he said, referring to the newly-announced Scoil Oscair in Balgaddy. In response, a Department spokesperson said: “Due to the financial constraints imposed by the need to prioritise available funding to meet future demographic demands, it has not been possible to advance all applications for capital funding concurrently.

“The primary aim at the core of the five-year plan is to ensure that every child will have access to a physical school place. The plan outlines the major school projects that will commence construction over the plan’s term. These have been prioritised on the basis of meeting significant demographic needs.” The spokesperson further said that the schools might receive funding in the future, and outlined plans for the Lucan area. “Schools which have not been included in the five-year construction programme, but which were announced for initial inclusion in the building programme, will continue to be progressed to final planning stages in anticipation of the possibility of further funds being available to the Department in future years. This includes the projects for the schools in [Lucan]. “To cater for the demographic demand at primary level in the Lucan area, a new primary school will be established in Lucan in 2013. This is in addition to a new school for Esker Educate Together National School and St Andrew’s National School which are due to go to construction in 2013. In addition, the Department will continue to monitor enrolments in the Lucan area to ensure that there is sufficient school accommodation to meet any projected future demands,” said the spokesperson.


21 March 2013 LUCAN Gazette 5

services Decision could mean €5m boost for SDCC

Council set to hold 80% of property tax  paul hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

POLITICIANS and business figures have welcomed the news that local authorities will keep 80% of money raised from the local property tax. Environment Minister Phil Hogan confirmed last week that the funds would stay in the local areas, a considerable increase on the 65% figure recommended by an expert group last year. The remaining 20%

will go into a central fund, being allocated on a “needs basis”, the Department of Environment, Community and Local Affairs said. Labour TD for Dublin Mid-West Robert Dowds said that the figure “shows that the Government is very keen on ensuring that this is a local tax for local services”. Though a figure will not be known until next year, it is believed that the decision will be worth somewhere in the region of €5

million to South Dublin County Council, a local source said. “I know that the property tax will be unpopular,” said Deputy Dowds. He added: “I think if people can see that it is paying for local services such as roads, parks and street lights, then it will be seen as a fair tax. “This decision will also allow councils to provide good quality public services where they are needed, and create a strong connection between the taxes

South Dublin County Council offices

that local people pay, and the services which they see in their community. “Local authorities now have a stable source of funding for their local services, and as local authorities will have the power to vary the [commercial] rates from 2015, this will give local people a voice in how they would like to see the balance

between tax and good public services.” The move was welcomed by the Dublin Chamber of Commerce. Its chief executive, Gina Quinn, called the decision a “significant step”. “Our argument has always been very straightforward, the property tax must be used to fund local services in the local

authority area it is raised – and not go through a national fund.” “This isn’t a rural-vsurban issue; all people want to see is the money they are paying in a local tax going to pay for their local services.” The council had not responded to a request for comment by the time of going to print.

Council

Artists urged to take note ANYONE interested in art funding should contact South Dublin County Council. The SDCC Arts Bursary funding forms are now available to download from the council. There are three categories this year for artists who live or work in the South Dublin County Council administrative area. They are: an individual artist’s bursary, a young artist development award for artists aged 18-25 years, as well as the Annette Halpin Memorial Award for young musicians. The closing date for all applications is March 28 at 1pm. For more information, contact Eva O’Brien, in the Arts Office at South Dublin County Council on 01 414 9270 ext 3320.


6 LUCAN Gazette 21 March 2013

gazetteGALLERIES merrion square: colourful street carnival

Georgian Dublin bursts with colour T

he heart of Georgian Dublin was bursting with colour as street performances, theatrics, Irish language events, workshops, fun zones, music, open air shows and more were held as the SuperValu Big Day Out came to Merrion Square. There were treats in store for

all ages and tastes with the sights and sounds of a bustling, colourful street carnival. Highlights included Circa Rum Ba Ba’s Dress Circle - a lady in a giant, sumptuous dress whose skirt is full of theatrical surprises and inspiring aerialists PaperDolls.

Senan and Dualta Larkin with Anthony Hobbs from Glasnevin enjoying the the SuperValu Big Day Out at Merrion Square where street performers entertained the crowds. Pictures: Corporate PR Sarah Johnson with The Hawk

Caoimhe Murphy from Navan Road


21 March 2013 LUCAN Gazette 7

Have you seen yourself in the Gazette? Buy photos online from only â‚Ź6.99 at www.gazettephotos.com

Performers entertain the crowds

Julia and William Carry from Lucan

Alyssa Pokorny and Meagan Conforth with The Hawk, mascot from the

Dave and Jennifer Fairfax with Luke from

Spruce Creek Jazzband, Florida

Blessington

A fire eater wows the crowds


8 LUCAN Gazette 21 March 2013

clinic

HSE approves multi-function facility for the Lucan area

Health centre may open in year  paul hosford

A NEW primary care centre for Lucan has been approved by the HSE and could open within the year, The Gazette can reveal. The centre will be built in the Ballyowen Castle Shopping Centre and will serve as a multi-purpose health facility for the Greater Lucan Area. As a public-private partnership the HSE will now seek out private funding to build the facility, which will then be

leased back to the HSE. The building will mean that all health and social care services in Lucan will be located in one multi-purpose building. The clinic will incorporate a GP, public health nurses, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, a dietician, social work and psychological services, along with the development of an x-ray service and a blood analysis service. Crucially, traffic will be managed by adding another entrance to the

shopping centre, somewhere along the Outer Ring Road. Added to that, no parking spaces are expected to be lost at the busy shopping centre, as the centre will be built on supports, much like the Cherry Orchard health centre. Fine Gael TD Derek Keating, who this week received the confirmation from the HSE, said that the facility would open new avenues of treatment to residents. “The development of a primary care service is an

FastNews

Local Order of Malta reunion

Deputy Derek Keating (FG): “I’m really excited that Lucan will finally have this primary care facility”

essential component of this Government’s health policy, and it will give the residents of Lucan direct access to an integrated multi-disciplinary team based in the community. “I am really excited that Lucan will finally have this primary care facility. Health is at the centre of this Government’s recovery policy. “Remember, two years ago when we entered

Government, we committed to protecting our health service from collapse. “Already in Dublin Mid-West, a wonderful primary care centre is in full operation at Cherry Orchard Hospital, providing excellent community-based medical intervention for the residents of Palmerstown and some parts of Clondalkin.

“I am delighted that Lucan will get its new primary health centre,” said Deputy Keating The facility is expected to take between 12 and 18 months to be completed, after the necessary contracts and planning processes are competed. A HSE spokesperson had not responded to a request for comment by the time of going to print.

THE Palmerstown Unit of the Order of Malta, which have been serving the local community since 1967, are holding a reunion on Saturday, April 6. The event will take place in Palmerstown Community Centre above SuperValu, and the organisers are encouraging past members to attend on the day and reconnect with old friends. They are also asking that former members pass on the details to friends and family members who no longer live in Palmerstown. For further information contact Anne on 087 940 0140 or Elaine on 087 221 1470 or email palmerstown@orderofmalta. ie, log on to Facebook at Order of Malta Palmerstown Reunion, or contact any current unit member.

Run marathon for Nagarhope LUCAN charity Nagarhope is asking for local women to run the Flora Women’s Mini Marathon this year. The 10-kilometre race will take place on June 3 and registration is currently open. Nagarhope, which is run by Lucan man Fachtna Clandillon, helps children in one of the poorest places in the world. The charity is currently in the process of building a community centre in the Nagarkot region of Nepal. If you are interested in running in aid of Nagarhope, contact Niamh by phone on 087-0666891 or by email at niamhclandillon@hotmail.com


21 March 2013 LUCAN Gazette 9

Cancer

Celbridge man wins prize for research A CELBRIDGE-based researcher has been named the Irish Cancer Society’s Researcher of the Year 2012. Dr Stephen Maher was announced as the winner of the prize at a special celebration of research at Our Lady’s Hospital in Crumlin. Speaking at the ceremony, he said: “I am delighted to receive this special and prestigious award from the Irish Cancer Society... It’s my hope that this research, in addition to the research projects shared by the other Society scholars and fellows, will help change the lives of cancer patients for the better in Ireland.” Professor John Fitzpatrick, head of research at the Irish Cancer Society, said: “We congratulate Dr Maher for his pioneering study, which was very deserving of this award for its powerful insights and results.” His research, carried out at the Institute of Molecular Medicine at St James’s Hospital, found microRNA-31 to be a predictive biomarker of response to radiation treatment, and a novel therapeutic agent with which to enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy. For more information on the Irish Cancer Society’s programme or to make a donation, visit www. cancer.ie or contact the Irish Cancer Society on Call Save 1850 606060.

health Local recalls life-changing op

FastNews

Walk 80km for Peter McVerry

Owen Kelleher(second left) is pictured with Leonard Ryan, David Hickey and James Reynold as a member of Team Ireland at the World Transplant and Dialysis Games

transplant: ‘not having to do dialysis frees up a lot of time’

Lucan man urges all to carry organ donor card  paul hosford

A LUCAN man is asking people to think about donating organs this month, just two months after receiving a kidney transplant. Owen Kelleher had been on dialysis for nearly 13 years when, last Christmas Day, he received a call to let him know that there was a kidney match available for him. He said: “We were in my sister’s house in Wexford celebrating

Christmas when we got the call on Christmas morning, and had to hightail it back up to Dublin. “I remember even in the car on the way back up, I wasn’t being too optimistic, because anything could have happened. “It wasn’t until it was all set and I had the blood taken that I had really thought it was going to happen.” After the operation, which proved a success, Owen spent two weeks

in hospital recovering and getting used to not being a dialysis patient. “It starts to dawn on you over a couple of days that you have a working kidney,” said Owen, who added that the free time created by not being in dialysis was also an adjustment.

Time “I had been going to dialysis for nearly 13 years, three nights a week, four hours a night. Not having it freed up a lot of time, so it is a

bit strange being home seven days a week. “My sons were both ver y young when I started dialysis, so that became the norm for them. It’s a huge thing for them to have their dad at home a lot more.” Driving to Dublin on that Christmas morning, Owen says his thoughts turned to the family of his organ donor. Having already competed as an athlete for Ireland at the World Transplant and Dialy-

sis Games, Owen is happy to lend his time to Organ Donation Awareness Week, which runs from March 30 to April 6. “The chances of me getting this kidney were .05%, so it’s very special and I hope to treasure it for a long time.” Organ Donor Cards can also be obtained by phoning the Irish Kidney Association at 1890 543 639, or Freetext the word DONOR to 50050, or visit the website at www.ika.ie.

THE Peter McVerry Trust, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, is calling for participants in its second Long Walk Home Grand Canal Challenge. The challenge entails an 80-kilometre walk between Shannon Harbour and Dublin over the May Bank Holiday to raise vital funds towards the charity’s work with young homeless people across the country. For more information on the walk, phone 01 8230776 or email fundraising@ pmv.ie.

Lucan Guides’ tea and bake sale LUCAN Guides and Rangers are holding a fundraising Tea and Bake Sale on Sunday, April 14. The sale will take place at St Mary’s Parish Centre after morning masses. Locals are invited along to have a cup of tea and homemade buns, or buy something to take away. All are welcome to attend, with money raised going towards the activities of the guides. For more information on Girl Guides, contact their national office on 01-6683898 or email info@irishgirlguides.ie.


10 LUCAN Gazette 21 March 2013

gazetteGALLERY

Have you seen yourself in the Gazette? Buy photos online from only €6.99 at www.gazettephotos.com

Peter created unique photo opportunities, such as snapping

Then Minister Mary Hanafin - with Oscar winner

Even farmyard animals were put at ease by

former Justice Minister Brian Lenihan in a holding cell

Sean Penn in the background

Peter Doyle

Remembering the work of Peter Doyle

T

HE sudden passing of our staff photographer Peter Doyle shocked and saddened every employee here in The Gazette. Peter was a hugely popular member of our team, both in the office and out. His ease with people, and animals, meant that he could get public figures to drop their guard, allowing Gazette readers a unique insight. Peter had a unique eye as a photographer, which was born of his real interest in, and affection for, people. Where others had their cameras focused straight ahead, Peter was always looking around him for a different take on events. With that in mind, we decided to honour Peter by sharing our favourite pictures, taken from a selection of thousands. That eye, his sense of humour and his friendship will be sorely missed.

Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern with son-in-law Nicky Byrne leaving the US ambassador’s residence on July 4 – as always, nobody ever A soldier watches the coffin of Brian Lenihan

refused Peter


21 March 2013 Gazette 11

diet coke milestone P14

asdfsdaf irish cancer societyP27 P15

dublinlife

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools

Emerald isle: dublin airport shines for visitors

Ireland’s green welcome for St Patrick’s weekend AN UNUSUAL sight greeted a quarter of a million people last weekend as Dublin Airport went green. Passengers coming to Dublin Airport by ground and air saw Terminals 1, 2, the Old Terminal building and many other prominent buildings around the airport campus lit up in green for the St Patrick’s Day weekend. The buildings were

bathed in green light every evening for six days to celebrate St Patrick’s Day and The Gathering 2013. “We are thrilled to be participating in the greening of Dublin Airport,” said DAA spokesperson Siobhán Moore. “[It] created a real wow factor at the airport and the greening of Terminal 2 was visible from the M1 and the M50.” Meanwhile, more than

225,000 passengers travelled through Dublin Airport over the course of the bank holiday weekend from Friday, March 15 to Monday, March 18, which is a 6% increase on last year. Monday, March 18 was the busiest day of the weekend, with more than 82,000 passengers passing through the airport. “Dublin Airport [provided] a selection of musical entertainment

for passengers over the holiday including choirs, traditional Irish groups and local schools so that we could extend a true cead mile failte to all visitors over the bank holiday weekend,” added Siobhan. Both terminals were also decked with nearly 11,000 balloons and reams of bunting, which were designed to create a festive atmosphere around both terminals.

Dublin Airport was lit up for the St Patrick’s Day weekend

Gazette

diary P12


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12 GAZETTE 21 March 2013

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Gain Pet Food and Barretstown are calling on all dog owners to dress up their pooches and help break the world record for the most dogs in fancy dress on April 28. Pictured are Aislinn Flanagan (8) with Ivannii, the pug. Picture Andres Poveda/Jason Clarke Photography

Doll up your dog GAIN Pet Food in association with Barretstown is calling on dog owners to help break the world record for the most dogs in fancy dress this April. T he world record attempt will take place on April 28 at T he National Show Centre (near Dublin Airport), with celebrity judge Katie Taylor on hand to find the “mutt with the greatest strut”. Promising to be a fantastic day out for all the family, as well as your four-legged furry friend, all money raised will be going to Barretstown, a charity which aims to rebuild the lives of children affected by serious illness and their families. There will be some fantastic prizes for the best dogs in costume, free veterinary and nutritional advice, agility and obedience classes, free entertainment and free goodie bags for you and

your canine companion. For more information or to register for the event, visit www. gainfeeds.com or email gainworldrecord@glanbia.ie.

FRANCO-IRISH LITERARY TREAT THIS APRIL A Franco-Irish Literary Festival gets under way this April at two venues on Kildare Street: Alliance Francaise and The National Library of Ireland. The free festival is organised by the Alliance Francaise Dublin and the Cultural and Scientific Service of the French Embassy with the intention of inviting Irish and French writers to come together. This year, in the context of the Irish Presidency of the European Union, the festival will also have several authors from European countries taking part.

French writers partaking include Bernard du Boucheron and Patrick Deville and among the Irish writers will be Dermot Bolger and Anne Haverty. The Franco-Irish Literary Festival runs from April 19 until 21 at both venues and admission is free. Go to francoirishliteraryfestival.com to find out more.

GOING FOR GOLD WITH THE LINDT BUNNY FOLLOWING on from the success of last year’s Easter auction, the Lindt Gold Bunny Auction is returning and is set to get fans fighting for the limited edition gold-plated Lindt bunnies signed by well-known Irish and international celebrities on the Lindt Chocolate Ireland Facebook page. All proceeds from the Lindt Gold Bunny Auction will be donated

directly to Temple Street Children’s Hospital and all final bid winners not only get to take home their signed Lindt Gold Bunny, but also a Lindt Gold Bunny hamper worth over €100. Celebrities who have hopped on board to sign the bunnies include The Script, Chris O’Dowd, Robbie Williams, Wayne Rooney, Daniel Radcliffe, Emeli Sande, Katie Taylor and Mumford & Sons, to name just a few. The auction is currently open for bids and will close on Monday, March 25 at 3pm. To bid, log onto www.facebook. com/lindtchocolateireland or visit www.lindtgoldbunny.ie.

CALLING ALL MODEL TOY COLLECTORS CALLING all toy model collectors, check out the latest collections at the annual toy/model col-

lector’s fair in Bray. This event will showcase a host of toys from yesterday and will be a toy collector’s dream day out. Buy, sell, swap, source, restore or just chat about hundreds of toy models. There is also a free valuation advice service being offered. As the saying goes, one man’s trash is another’s treasure, and that is definitely something collectors will be thinking of this year. The event is being hosted by the Collectors’Association, which was established in 1968. Admission is €1 with proceeds going to the Alzheimer Society. This event takes place on Sunday, March 24 from 10am until 3pm at the Bray Wheelers Clubhouse, Schools Road. For directions see www.braywheelers.com. For more information, call Des Cooney on 4576751 or Sean Ryan on 2851308.


21 March 2013 Gazette 13

One City One Book: exploring dublin’s history

Horticulture taster day

Strumpet City: epic reminder of 1913  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

Strumpet City by James Plunkett is this year’s choice for One City One Book. The initiative was set up in 2006 to encourage people in Dublin to read a chosen book connected with the city throughout the month of April. One City One Book is run by Dublin City Public Libraries and Dublin UNESCO City of Literature which is a dedicated office set up in 2010 to promote Dublin as a literary destination

and to promote reading in the capital. The 2013 choice, the historical novel Strumpet City, was written in 1969 by James Plunkett. It is set in Dublin at the time of the 1913 Lock Out, so its selection in the year of the Lock Out’s centenary is a timely reminder of our past. Naoise O Muiri, the Lord Mayor of Dublin (FG) said: “As well as being arguably the greatest Irish historical novel, it provides a literary portal through which Dubliners can explore the history

of their city. It is a novel which will undoubtedly raise many discussions and I encourage you to participate in those discussions throughout the extensive One City One Book programme this April.” Strumpet City traces the lives of a dozen characters as they are swept up in the tumultuous events surrounding an industrial dispute as workers fought for their right to unionise between 1907 and 1914. Plunkett was born in 1920 in Dublin’s inner

city and his father was a member of Jim Larkin’s Irish Transport and General Workers’ Union (ITGWU) which had a huge impact on the young writer. The novel was adapted into a very successful television drama series by RTE in 1980 and had such acting luminaries as Peter O’Toole playing the role of union leader Jim Larkin, Cyril Cusack, David Kelly and Donal McCann. RTE’s dramatisation of the book was, at the time, the biggest money-spinner the station had ever pro-

Gazette

FEATURE

Author James Plunkett has depicted a pivotal event in Irish social history

duced, and was sold to more than 30 countries. One City One Book’s publishing partner is Gill and Macmillan, which have a new edition of Strumpet City out now to

celebrate the centenary of the Lock Out. It contains an introduction by Fintan O’Toole outlining the book’s current relevance today and costs €9.99.

THE Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture at the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin, will hold an open afternoon on Thursday, March 21, from 2pm to 4pm for potential students and parents. The college provides the widest range of horticultural training in the country, offering courses from levels four to eight on the National Framework of Qualifications. With student facilities currently being expanded and upgraded for the 2013 intake of students, the Teagasc College boasts entire grounds and vast plant collections alongside its classrooms. For more information, log on to www.teagasc. ie/botanicgardens.


Gazette

14 Gazette 21 March 2013

dublinlife

Offset Festival set to return to Dublin  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

The Offset Festival is taking place this April in Dublin, and is being hailed as three days of the most creative design talent in the world gathered in one place. The best of the world’s illustrations, sculpture, murals, magazines, picture books and music videos will be involved this year. A total of 24 speakers at the cutting edge of design will be involved with the Offset Festival, such as Sarah Illinberger, Niamh Sharkey and Jonathan McHugh, who started out as a scenic artist creating giant

murals on construction sites across Europe. Another award winner lined up for Offset is Canadian Calef Brown, an author/illustrator who has written many children’s books. His illustrations have popped up in Time, Newsweek, Rolling Stone and The New Yorker. Since its inception in Dublin in 2009, Offset has become one of the world’s most important creative events. The festival runs at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre from April 5 to 7. Tickets, which are available from Ticketmaster, cost €70 for a day and €195 for the whole festival.

anniversary: model ‘really proud’ to be chosen

Refreshing change for Diet Coke’s milestone  Natalie Burke

THERE aren’t too many women in the country who can forget “that” Diet Coke ad which graced our screens in the 1990s. But for anyone who missed it, or is feeling a little nostalgic, the good news is that a brand new ad will be taking over our 11.30am breaks, complete with a brand new hunk, Diet Coke’s words – not ours! To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the brand in Europe, Diet Coke has chosen the toned torso of male model Andrew Cooper to help recreate a modern version of the memorable TV ad. Cooper is appearing on the advertisement as a gardener, joining the ranks of other roles the infamous Diet Coke hunk has taken on over the years, which included a construction worker, a window cleaner and a delivery man. Chatting to the Gazette during a recent promotional visit to Dublin, model Cooper says he is “really proud” to have been chosen as the brand’s latest hunk. “It’s amazing to be fronting the campaign. They hadn’t casted in so long and it was a really big thing for them I think to try and recreate what they had back with Lucky Vanous, the builder and the girls in the office. So yeah, I’m really proud and obviously really happy to be part of the 30 years of Diet Coke,” he said. Following in the footsteps of the hunks that have gone before him, Cooper says he doesn’t feel under pressure to keep up the good name.

Model Andrew Cooper is Diet Coke’s brand new “hunk”

“I never really do to be honest. All you can do is do your best and be good at your job.” The 32-year-old, who hails from Manchester, may be the centre of attention when it comes to his day job, but at home he lives a normal life with a wife, two kids and a pet shop. “Between me and my wife, we have a shop in Notting Hill [called The Mutz Nutz] where we do grooming and all that. I have my fingers in many pies!” Having modelled since the age of 16, Cooper has starred in many large campaigns, including a L’Oreal commercial with Claudia Schiffer. However with all the female

attention on this latest campaign, Cooper says his wife is very supportive. “I’ve been working in this business for a long time and she is totally understanding and very supporting. We’ve been together so long and she really loves the ad. My kids like it too and it gets quite a lot of replays in the house! Positive

“I’ve had a really positive reaction from the whole campaign. It took off like a rocket and I wasn’t really expecting that. Even the person who works in the local coffee shop was giving me a bit of stick but it has all been good!” Making appearances

across Dublin last week, Cooper says it’s his third time to visit. “I love it; it’s one of my favourite cities. It’s definitely – when I say favourite – got a lot to do with eating and drinking,” he said. Despite his last comment, Cooper says eating healthy is key to staying in shape. “I’m generally a pretty healthy person in terms of what I eat – I’m not a chocolate lover so I don’t really watch what I eat, but I’m really active.” Diet Coke is celebrating its big milestone by giving away a Marc Jacobs leather pouch every 30 minutes. For more information, log onto www. cokezone.ie.


21 March 2013 Gazette 15

Gazette

FEATURES

Irish Cancer Society marks 50 years’ service  laura webb

The chief executive of the Irish Cancer Society (ICS) continues to be humbled by the generosity of the Irish public who have supported the charity over the last 50 years. This year marks a great milestone for the ICS, which offers a range of services to people affected by cancer. On March 22, volunteers will be out in force selling daffodils for Daffodil Day. Speaking to the Gazette, ICS chief executive John McCormack thanked supporters of the charity. “We have managed to grow from strength to strength in

50 years thanks to the continued support of the Irish people. “I am humbled by the support received during these tough times. We know people have been affected by the recession and they are hurting financially… but yet they continue to stand by the ISC.” Asked why he think’s that is, he said it’s because people understand it is a charity that is making a difference to people affected by cancer. “The funds go towards free patient care services, which are delivered to people, in many cases, in their own homes. For example, over 2,000 families were helped last year

with the ICS night nursing service and they provided over 7,000 nights of care to families. “We are also the largest voluntary funders of cancer research in Ireland. The enemy of cancer is good cancer research, finding out more about the cancer cell, so that we can discover better therapies to deal with cancer.” The patient literature in hospitals is also provided by the cancer society and it explains the often confusing terminology doctors use. “Often when people hear the words, you have cancer, what is said to them for the next three quarters of an hour is forgotten, they are numb at the

thought of a life changing diagnosis of cancer and it is afterwards, when they go home that they look at the lCS literature, or go on our website or phone the national cancer helpline 1800 200 700,” John explained. “They can speak to one of our helpline nurses, who are all oncology trained. They can answer the questions people have… and they hold people’s hand through

this journey.” Daffodil Day, now in its 26th year, takes place on March 22 and accounts for 15% of their fundraising. “The daffodil is a symbol of hope. Hope is something people going through cancer look for, it’s a sign that says I am going to get through this,” he added. Support ICS this March 22, see www.cancer.ie for further information.

Siofra O’Sullivan (5) from Bayside with Sebastian Reilly (3) from Donnybrook and Kyra Downey (3) from Bayside pictured helping mark the beginning of the Irish Cancer Society’s 50th year


Gazette

16 Gazette 21 March 2013

dublinlife

Pamela Cullen, Paul Hennessy, Orlagh Kilbride and Bindu Nai of Abbott

Abbott ranked as one of Ireland’s Best Workplaces 2013 Abbott, the global health care company, has been recognised as one of Ireland’s Best Workplaces for the progressive work practices and innovative employee programmes in place at Abbott facilities around the country. Two Abbott sites in West Dublin were part of the ranking achieved at the Best Workplaces Awards 2013, including Abbott Medical Optics in Liffey Valley and the company’s commercial operation, Abbott Laboratories Ireland Ltd, Citywest, which was presented with a Laureate in recognition of 10 years’ consistent ranking in Ireland’s annual Best Workplaces list. The awards were hosted by the Great Place to Work Institute at a gala dinner in the Burlington Hotel, Dublin last week. Abbott is one of the largest healthcare companies in Ireland, with a diverse range of operations spanning manufacturing, commercial and shared services around the country, however, it applies a universal approach to maintaining excellence in the recruitment and retention of employees. Six Abbott facilities, spanning five business divisions, collaborated on this year’s Best Workplaces entry including; Abbott Medical Optics, Liffey Valley Dublin and Westport; Abbott Established Products Division, Santry, Dublin; Abbott Laboratories Ireland Ltd, CityWest Dublin; Abbott Diagnostics, Longford and Abbott Ireland Pharmaceutical Operations

Sligo, now trading as AbbVie. Margaret Morrissey, country HR director, Abbott, accepted the award on the company’s behalf. “We are delighted to receive this recognition from the Great Place to Work Institute. We are an innovation-led company that maintains our competitive advantage by exploring and maximising opportunities in all aspects of our business. We are only able to do this through our talented and engaged employees, who are our greatest asset. “We are committed to providing a high-trust environment, and fostering open, transparent and direct relationships with all our employees. This means that as a company we can continue to innovate and best serve patients with products that improve lives. Being named one of Ireland’s Best Workplaces is a welcome acknowledgment of our commitment to progressive work practices and providing learning and development opportunities for each employee.” Examples of some of the progressive initiatives in place at Abbott include the Live Life Well initiative, which inspires, engages and empowers employees to embrace a holistic approach to their physical and mental wellbeing. Also Ideas into Action is an initiative which enables employees to identify opportunities for improvement across a number of categories including culture, cost savings, environment, knowledge and process improvements.

business

Ten steps to financial freedom A fool and his money, as the saying goes, are soon parted (although I prefer James Van Den Bosch’s quip that “a fool and his money are some party”), but fools aren’t the only ones afflicted this way. Many highly intelligent people find themselves with financial problems, too. This is because your IQ has absolutely nothing to do with how well you manage your money. What is considerably more relevant is your attitude to the stuff and your timing. If you want to survive (and prosper) during the current economic recession you need to focus on your personal finances. If you shudder at the thought, remember as I have said before that the only boring thing about money is not having enough of it. One other point before we consider how to transform your finances in 10 easy steps. If you run a business, what holds for your personal finances, holds for your corporate finances, too. Step one. Get a plan, Stan (apologies to Paul Simon ) If you want to transform your finances the first thing you need is a sound financial plan. Set short, medium and long-term goals. These might be such things as “pay off all my debts” or “sort out my retirement.” You can’t go forward until you know what you want to achieve. Step two. Stop digging. You can’t get out of a hole if you keep digging. If you have a financial problem – such as debt – then stop doing anything that might be making it worse. Step three. Be patient.

It is difficult to get rich quick, but very easy to do if you take it slowly. By the same token, you won’t solve any financial problem by being in a hurry. Step four. Work out a budget. Budgeting has nothing to do with self-denial - it is simply about making a plan for how you will spend your money over a specific period. Start by working out your current position. Calculate your income and expenditure over a typical year (breaking it down month by month). Then draw up a list of your assets and liabilities. Step five. Waste will seriously damage your wealth. For years, my children would roll their eyes when I went round the house switching off lights or complained when they were talking on the telephone for too long. Eventually, they were persuaded that what I was doing was worthwhile when I offered them a percentage of any utility bill savings we could make as a family. Now, more than ever, you need to cut out all waste. More next week!  Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

enterprise ireland: Government at showcase

California trip boost for start-up businesses Enterprise Ireland took part in a High Potential Start-up Showcase for Irish business this month in Silicon Valley in California opened by Minister for Small Business John Perry last week. Minister Perry announced that 1,600 jobs would be created in start-up businesses in Ireland this year. The start-ups in question number 97 and have received financial support throughout 2012 from Enterprise Ireland. The minister said that €300 million in sales would be generated by these companies in Ireland within the next three years. The companies featured come from a wide range of sectors including

key technological areas that have been targeted by the government for growth in the last year. These include: financial services, ICT, games, pharmaceuticals and medical devices. The showcase also included 60 early stage entrepreneurs supported by the Enterprise Ireland Competitive Start Fund and representatives from the 2012 New Frontiers Entrepreneur Development Programme. Greg Treston, Enterprise Ireland Head of High Potential Start-ups and Scaling, said: “Enterprise Ireland has continued to introduce new initiatives to provide the right support at the right time, at all stages along

Sam Nayagam, 10n2 Technologies, David Byrne, Enterprise Ireland, and Sean Corbett, Adaptive HVM who were at the showcase

the start-up journey.” At the Enterprise Ireland Potential Start-ups Showcase, Minister Perry said: “The Government’s Action Plan for Jobs places innovative entrepreneurs and businesses right at the heart of the drive to accelerate jobs growth and economic prosperity. Ambitious, export-focused projects like those featured today and supported by Enterprise Ire-

land, are central to this, and will play a critical part in achieving the levels of growth and employment that we need. “During the last two years, this government has delivered a series of measures aimed at putting the best supports in place and creating the right business environment so that indigenous companies can grow their businesses.”


21 March 2013 Gazette 17

motoring P22

asdfsdaf P27 TRAVEl P24

OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week

Gazette

style P19

Pets can you give fabulous fender a new home?

A trip to the museum gives an insight into the great history of Dublin

Little Museum of Dublin: free educational classes prove popular

A novel history lesson

 Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

The Little Museum of Dublin is running a new children’s education programme at their premises on Stephen’s Green to introduce children to the history and culture of Dublin. A series of free classes for school children called I Love Dublin has been up and running for about a month now and is proving very popular among secondary and primary schools in the city. The Gazette spoke to the museum’s director, Trevor White, about the new initiative. “The I Love Dublin classes are based on the civics and history of Dublin and they were established to

promote a greater awareness of Dublin’s great history and culture among the young with a view to encouraging a strong sense of civic pride in them. A law firm called Matheson has agreed to fund the classes for the next three years, which is great.” The classes are overseen by museum staff along with the school’s own teachers. Students are welcomed to the museum by either the director or curator who give a 10-minute talk before conducting a short tour of the museum for 15 to 30 minutes during which the class considers the question of why Dublin is so loved. Following this there is a 15-minute treasure hunt, in which students explore the museum and complete worksheets.

Next there is a class discussion on why Dublin is loved and the best answer by a student is filmed and put on the museum’s website. The class then interviews an older Dubliner about what life in the city was like many years ago when they were the same age as the students. Trevor went on to talk about the novel approach being taken with the I Love Dublin classes, to get the children more excited about Dublin’s heritage. “We have an extensive range of classes on offer for primary and post primary school students. “Usually a school will come along with several different classes, all visiting at the same time, so different methods work with the different age

groups. “Because the collection is drawn from the people of Dublin, who have all donated the artefacts on display, the items themselves tell the story of Dublin in the 20th century. It offers an unusual angle by which the children can approach the city’s history. There is a lot of holding of the objects and a lot of enjoyable activities in the classes. We didn’t want the classes to be dry and so are determined to keep changing them all the time so that the children get a real buzz out of them.” Anyone interested in organising a trip to the museum should register online at http://www.littlemuseum. ie/visit-the-museum/i-love-dublinclasses

The Gazette Newspaper Group has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is fabulous Fender, a two-and-a-halfyear-old male whippet cross. As well as being one handsome hound, this boy is also one happy chappy. With bundles of energy and a real zest for life, he would be most suited to an active home with kids over 14 years – where he can get plenty of walks and most importantly lots of attention! This eager-to-please, clever clogs knows sit, down and heel and would love the opportunity to attend training and socialisation classes where he can learn many more commands. If you think you could give this super guy the loving forever home he so deserves 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 www.facebook.com/ dogstrustireland or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.


GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 21 March 2013

OUT&ABOUT Paisly patterned trousers €22.99 RRP €89

Bright stripe shift dress €39.99 RRP €265

Blue Floral print dress €22.99

Spring/Summer sneak peak THERE’S nothing like the feeling you get when you see designer clothes at affordable prices, and that’s the feeling everyone gets when they visit TK Maxx. This week, Gazette Style takes a sneak preview of what’s on offer at the store this spring/summer. It has all the biggest trends coming

straight from the catwalk including: graphic prints, sports luxe, 1960s mod, spring florals and monochrome patterns. Buyers deal directly with designers, so they get the latest trends at a fraction of the price, some with up to 60% off the original RRP. So get happy, and start shopping!

Black & white peplum dress €39.99 RRP €179.99

TK Maxx Coral top €12.99 Multi print blazer €39.99

TK Maxx Black and white stripe leggings €9.99

Black and white stripe midi dress €39.99


21 March 2013 GAZETTE 19

 LAURA WEBB style@gazettegroup.com

WAV E g o o d b y e t o smudged pedicures and say hello to a quick fiveminute treatment that allows you to pop your shoes on straight afterwards without the use of a UV or LED lamp. Jessica Nails has developed a revolutionary new gel pedicure that goes on in five minutes with no lamp needed to cure, and what’s more, it lasts for up to four weeks, just like gel nails. Jessica Fusion takes between five to 10 minutes to complete, so it can be easily done during a lunch-break. O ve r 2 0 0 b e a u t y salons nationwide are already stocking this product, which is available through French Cosmetics, a one-stop shop for professional beauty products based in Trim, which caters for over 1,500 beauty salons in Ireland. “The joy of this, and it’s why it’s exploded, with lots of beauty editors contacting us about it, is that you don’t need a lamp to cure it, and people do find that cumbersome to do. All you do is buff the nail, file and buff it, it’s for toenails only. You apply a primer, which sets it, then the colour, then primer, colour and primer and that’s it. It sets straight away and it takes just five minutes

Sarah Beirne, sales and marketing manager, French Cosmetics, Glenda Gilson, Ken Boylan and Tara Collier, national trainer, French Cosmetics at the launch of Jessica Fusion in Ken Boylan’s salon recently

to do it and the client can put their shoes on straight away,” Sarah Beirne of French Cosmetics explained. “Currently, there are six colours in the range, with a further 10 coming out in the next two weeks. The colours are lovely and vibrant. Jessica is always innovating new colours and new ideas. She would have been the person who invented the French manicure. “What is great about this product is it’s so quick to do, people don’t have time to wait. You want to get your toenails done perfectly and done maybe during your

lunch break and this is done in 5 to 10 minutes and you’re out the door. “We launched it in Ken Boylan’s recently and invited some celebrities, bloggers a nd beauty editors to try it for themselves, to see what they think. It was well received, a lot of

them were worried about putting their shoes on, but they could. “We have been out the door with queries since then, which is great,” she added. Jessica’s Fusion is set to completely revolutionise the gel market in

Ireland and is already huge in LA with celebrities including Demi Moore, Rihanna, Christina Aguilera and Jennifer Lopez, to name a few. To find out for yourself just how revolutionary it is, take a trip to Ken Boylan’s make-up studio on Drury Street where you can have Jessica Fusion applied for the reasonable price of €18. The product is only available in participating beauty salons. To find a salon near you, or to find out details on stocking Jessica Fusion, contact sarah@frenchcosmet ics.ie

Don’t forget to send in your style question for our Style Q&A with Littlewoods Ireland Ambassador, Caroline Morahan. The Star Question will win €50 voucher for Littlewoods Ireland. Email style@gazettegroup.com The next Q&A is out March 28.

GAZETTE

Goodbye smudged pedicures, hello Fusion

STYLE

BEAUTY news Be camera-ready with Neutrogena

BE camera ready, and get up close and confident in your skin, thanks to Neutrogena’s new Visibly Clear Pore and Shine skincare products. Neutrogena says this new generation of skincare solution tackles two major skin concerns at once: pores and shine. During research, the team at Neutrogena found that 84% of women feel that large pores and shiny skin can make it hard to achieve a flawless complexion, leaving women feeling self-conscious about their skin. Meanwhile, scientific research has also shown that large pores are linked with the excess sebum levels that cause shine. To help tackle this problem, Neutrogena formulated Visibly Clear Pore and Shine, designed to give you more flawless skin and help achieve closeup confidence. The Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pore and Shine Daily Scrub (€5.58) has a double action for tightened pores and mattified skin, providing a flawless-looking complexion. The range also includes the Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pore and Shine Daily Wash (€5.58). A unique facial wash visibly mattifies the skin and unclogs pores. Available at stockists nationwide.

A natural finish with Teint Visionnaire WHAT do we want in our foundation? Coverage? Yes. A natural finish? Of course! And skincare efficacy? Yes, please! Well, that’s what Lancome’s newest foundation is offering. Teint Visionnaire comes in a compact bottle that has a very clever lid compartment with easy to work highcoverage concealer and a mirror to help achieve coverage when on the go. The fluid foundation is lightweight and easy to apply. It also evens out skin’s wrinkles or fine lines and gives a great natural finish. What’s also great about this new product is it works with the skin to improve skin quality within four weeks. Teint Visionnaire (RRP €45) is available in 18 different tones. See Lancome counters for further information.


Gazette

20 gazette 21 March 2013

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

Theatre

THE pavilioN THEATRE 01 231 2929 An Audience with Sir Jonathan Miller

SIR Jonathan has enjoyed one of the most stellar careers in modern theatre and opera with several classic productions to his credit. A fully qualified physician he has become a very high-profile television personality and public intellectual. This is a fantastic opportunity for audiences to see, listen and ask questions of one of the most prolific broadcasters, directors and thinkers of our time. March 18-23, tickets are priced at €20/€17.

Draiocht 01 885 2622 Battle of the Bands

AFTER a successful first year, Miniature Jack will be hosting a second local Battle of the Bands and it promises to be as good as the last! This heat will showcase some of our local, young talent with performances from Carmine, Ryan Bhasker and The Tracks. March 22, tickets are priced at €8.

Mill THEATRE Dundrum 01 296 9340 Female of the Species

FEMALE of the Species is more deadly than the male…. A fascinating study of the female species, with some hilarious discoveries. Catch the show on March 22 and 23, tickets are priced at €20/€18.

Frank Langella marvels at how grown up Johnny Five has gotten

review: Frank langella and a robot prove a formidable duo

Brilliant, frankly THE Sundance seal of approval has been worn less easily in recent years, not so much a marker of quality, but a millstone around the necks of otherwise great films. 2011 Jury Prize winner Like Crazy sank without a trace, despite being one of the best relationship films of the millenium and Steve Coogan’s Hamlet 2, which sold for an eight-figure sum in 2008, grossed roughly half of its rights cost. So, when you get notice that a movie that shared a win of the Alfred B Sloan Prize, which recognises films which deal with science and technology, is about to hit screens, it is understandable that there would be apprehension. Especially when you consider that the stars are a 75-year-old character actor and a robot.

Film of the Week: Robot & Frank h h h h (12A) 89 mins Director: Jake Schreier Starring: Frank Langella, Susan Sarandon, Peter Sarsgaard, James Marsden, Liv Tyler

 Paul hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

S o m e h o w, R o b o t & Frank director Jake Schreier manages to lift his film above all expectations. Schreier, in his directorial debut, manages to keep what could easily turn into a 1980s’ buddy-comedy on a straight track while also making the near-future setting both novel and interesting. When we meet Frank, he is a retired cat burglar and a near shut-in. His kids (Tyler and Marsden) are worried about him in a way that guilty offspring are prone to be. Rather than put their father in fulltime care,

OUR VERDICT:

BEAUTIFULLY shot, warmly written and expertly acted, this is a slice of indie heaven. Langella leads the line brilliantly, with his Frank warm enough to allow the viewer to see past his obvious flaws. Marsden and Tyler also excel in their roles as Frank’s put-upon children and Sarandon sparkles as a love interest. But this a buddy film dominated by two best friends: Robot and Frank

Marsden’s Tyler decides that a robot companion is just what his father needs to improve his health. T he robot, voiced by Peter Sarsgaard, looks like it could have stepped off the stage at a Japanese tech show and actually feels like a human character. Much of that is down to Peter Sarsgaard, whose voice work as Robot is warm and empathetic. Sarsgaard is an excellent actor, one who just doesn’t get enough good roles, but his work here helps create a dynamic

with Langella which would otherwise be difficult to capture. Langella, of course, deserves huge credit for this too. Here he is in sparkling form, making you rue the fact that an eminently talented screen actor would eschew the medium for the vast majority of his career. Oscar-nominated in 2008 for his portrayal of Richard Nixon in Frost/Nixon, Langella has performed just four live-action roles since. He has been primarily a stage actor for the majority of his 50-year

career and it is apparent that the stage’s gain has been screen’s loss. Here, with Frank slipping further into dementia, Langella makes him a sy mpathetic man, albeit one who is planning to steal millions of dollars of jewels. As his relationship with the local librarian (Susan Sarandon) blossoms, Frank shows a more tender side to his personality, while a twist at the end really brings the light feelings to the ground with a heavy bump. O ve r a l l , S c h r e i e r deserves credit for keeping big issues (technology, mental deteroration) from dominating what is really a very good story, free of moralising or pontificating. But, at the end of the day, this is Langella’s film and he steals it thoroughly. Pardon the pun.


21 March 2013 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

GAMING SIM CITY: SOME IN-BUILT PROBLEMS

It’s not quite a towering achievement AT THE time of writing, legions of would-be city planners are still marching through the (virtual) streets of their carefully planned cities, ready to wave burning torches and chair legs in the general direction of games developer Maxis, and games publisher/developer Electronic Arts. But first, we need to step back just a little bit, to the very recent release of the long-awaited PC and Mac title, Sim City – the latest in a long line of Sim City games, and the one that created the most press, too. As the name suggests, Sim City is a city simulation game where, as a blend of mayor, architect, planner and, well, God, you strive to create a large, happy, functioning city, working on everything from tax rates to sewage lines, deciding

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@gazettegroup.com

where residential zones should develop – oh, and are they well served by public transport, or are you setting up traffic jams for disgruntled citizens? All this, and a thousand other questions and issues to sort out in your role as The Man. Sure, this may sound as deathly dull as porridge, but Sim City has always been an extremely popular series, for many years. Perhaps the ability to enable or add disasters helps – there’s nothing like seeing a giant monster attacking Downtown to liven up your morning budget meeting.

BYTES&PIECES

PIRATES TO BRIDGE TWO PLATFORMS?

Next Assassin’s Creed sequel could usher in the PS4 IT’S been interesting to note the interest in the recently announced Assassin’s Creed 4, which seems set for release in October and, with its 1715 Caribbean setting (and pirates ahoy), splashes on the heels of the fairly-recent (and very pretty, but ever-soslightly dull) AC3. However, what’s made the most impact is not that AC4 is on the way so soon, but that it also seems to be a dual-platform release, for both the PlayStation 3 and the PS4. This would be a very helpful benchmark to note the step-up in graphics, and capabilities, in the eagerly awaited console.

Traditionally presented with an elevated isometric view, the series has finally evolved to suit modern tastes, with a beautifully presented full 3D world to whirl around in, complete with intricately modelled buildings, fixtures and fittings, while those with powerful enough gaming rigs can enjoy some particularly great visual effects. Apart from the colossal leap forward in graphics, a serious overhaul has also changed how the game functions, with proper computing of each citizen’s interests/feelings adding to the overall state of the city’s progress, rather than using fairly generic algorithms to guide gameplay. So, in many ways, Maxis really delivered a terrific update for Sim City fans, as well as creating a more accessible title for newcomers. Unfortunately, that’s where the good news stops, as a number of unwelcome points need to be highlighted. Chief of these, and as a singularly unwelcome development, Sim City is now on online-only game (so as to monitor and exchange data with other players and cities). No internet access: no game – not a ver y attractive or game-friendly option to buy into, but what has created a mob of irate gamers is the fact

If you want to build a greener version of Chongqing, flavoured with a dash of Seattle, you can – just be prepared to tinker with lots of under-the-bonnet settings (below) to help make your megapolis thrive

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that the game servers – and, by proxy, Maxis and EA – had greatly underestimated the amount of players that would be logging on. The result: an almost unplayable game for the few who managed to log on and play to begin with, with players just as immobile as the teeny tiny cars and trucks stranded at a badly-designed intersection. Caught by surprise, EA issued an apology and has been working to address the server/access issues, but it hasn’t stopped gamers venting their anger and frustration all over t’internet. Indeed, things got so bad that, briefly, Sim City’s advertising was suspended, while some retailers,

including Amazon, also suspended sales. These are not the kind of negative headlines and stories that any major new games release, or company, wants to see. So, what now for Sim City? After all that, some good news again – the servers issue is being addressed, with the company determined to get everyone playing, with more than enough capacity to address surges. The occasional bugs, and pathfinding issues, are also being addressed, in a bid to help make your city a success. If EA and Maxim can sort out these teething problems – and soon – Sim City should be a pretty cool place to visit ...

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22 Gazette 21 March 2013

Gazette

& OUT ABOUT road NOISE

MOTORS

review: multi-award winner will impress buyers with €15k price tag

Dacia Duster to be a smart buy in Irish SUV market n Cormac Curtis

Michael Grant Renault to sponsor DCU Fashion Show Michael Grant Renault in Dublin 4 is the title sponsor of the 2013 DCU Fashion Show which takes place at The Helix on March 26. This year’s show, themed Power of Paradise, is organised by the DCU Style Society in association with Michael Grant Renault, and will tell the story of an evolving planet inspired by the expressive nature of fashion. The annual fashion extravaganza will showcase spring/summer 2013 collections from high street and vintage boutiques and will help raise awareness for Bodywhys, the eating disorders association of Ireland. Renault’s new sexy range of cars including New Clio, New Mégane and New Fluence, will hit the catwalk on March 26 at The Helix. Michael Grant is pictured on the red carpet catwalk with the New Renault Clio and models and designers from the DCU Style Society at the launch of the 2013 Fashion Show.

The new sleek Kia Carens to land in Ireland this May The new 2013 Kia Carens will go on sale in Ireland this coming May. Powered by the economical 1.7D engine that powers its Sportage stable mate the Carens comes in a choice of three trim levels ( TX, EX and Platinum ) with a starting price of just €26,490.Prices for other models will be announced closer to the launch date . Standard equipment for the entry level Irish TX model includes alloy wheels, rear spoiler, LED daytime running lights, cornering lights, front and rear electric windows, luggage cargo screen, steering-mounted audio controls , and voice activated bluetooth. With a sleek and sculpted design, the all-new Kia Carens marks a dramatic shift away from the more utilitarian look of its predecessor. It features a spacious five-plus-two seating layout, a generously proportioned luggage bay and numerous stowage spaces, and wraps this family-friendly adaptability in more purposeful sheet metal.

My wife of almost 12 years has an absolutely shocking ability to spot premium products. We were once in an outlet shop where she started to eye up a display of leather purses and wallets. There were no prices marked anywhere – but the one she honed in on happened to be about $150 more expensive than the rest. Let’s just say she can do the opposite of spot a bargain. So, when I rolled home in the Dacia Duster recently, I was genuinely interested to see what she would make of this rare and unusual 4x4. Unless you have been paying close attention to the motoring press or happen to know someone in the trade – there is ever y chance you have never even heard of the brand Dacia. Believe it or not, the brand has been in existence since 1966, and started building Renault models under licence for the Eastern European and Russian market in 1968. I n 19 9 9 , R e n a u l t finally bought the company, which have just been introduced to the Irish market, starting with the Duster. So what can you expect? I have already described the Duster as unusual, and, because it such a rare sight on Irish roads, it most certainly is. But when you look at the price tag – just €14,990 – I’m certain

The Dacia Duster will be available in Ireland in both 4x2 and 4x4 guises with one diesel engine size

you will begin to take interest. So what did my wife make of it? I was expecting her to spot it as a low-cost model from the first look, but that didn’t happen. Because the Duster does look the part. Simple and functiontal, with just enough style to be easy on the eye. That’s what you get. T he Duster offers some serious room in its very straightforward interior – my two kids looked swallowed up in the rear seats. I wouldn’t describe the interior of the Duster as special – it is functional. Yo u c o u l d p r o b ably find enough space between some of the dashboard panels to fit the thin edge of a credit card, and I needed to

press the cabin light back into the roof with my thumb. But so what? If you buy a new Dacia, you’ll have a warranty to cover any teething problems like this. Dacia expect their cars to shake things up in Ireland – a lot. And who could blame them? At a time when prices seem to be climbing for almost everything else, Dacia brings a refreshing smart-buy concept to Ireland and is one of the most interesting motor stories of 2012. The launch of Dacia Duster in Europe in 2010 saw such a demand from eager customers that resulted in a sixmonth waiting list for the much-anticipated vehicle in Germany and France. The SUV segment is the fastest growing seg-

ment in Ireland and is up 9% YTD on 2011. Almost 90% of vehicles in the SUV segment are over €22,500 to buy new or even over €24,500 to have the equivalent diesel engine for the best seller of the segment, so with that in mind, the Duster will quickly become a very attractive contender for those looking at buying a new SUV, a new family car or even a used car. The multi-award winning Duster will impress buyers with its chunky and unpretentious styling, impressive and

versatile interior space, peerless build quality and unbeatable value for money. The Duster will be available in Ireland in both 4x2 and 4x4 guises with one diesel engine size, a 1.5 dCi 110Bhp in Band B with two trims, Alternative 4x2 and Signature 4x2, 4x4, and comes with an up to five-year, unlimited mileage warranty. The Dacia Duster will be available at the nine dedicated Dacia Dealers around the country. Visit www.dacia.ie for more information.


21 March 2013 LUCAN gazette 23

Gazette

MUSIC FASTtunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods

Lizzy legacy will go on despite name change Girls Aloud: A magnificent concert signalled the probable end of an era at the O2 arena last Saturday night

concert review: a lesson in the craft from the fab five

Girls’ pop perfection I have a confession to make. I love pop music. I am, and will forever be, a complete sucker for a timeless melody and a killer chorus. The magic that is imbued into this form by the perfect synergy of songwriters, producers, designers, stylists and the artist themselves, is potent indeed. To underestimate or blindly criticise pop is to miss the point entirely. The accumulated output of the likes of Phil Spector, the writers of the Brill Building, Trevor Horn, Motown, and countless others throughout the years have the power to stop traffic and make you dance. It’s about emotion in motion, and reaches a part of the brain few other forms of music can.

 ROB heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com

Therefore, it’s a bittersweet pleasure to have been able to attend what most are presuming will be the last ever Dublin show of the only genuine pop sensation of the last 10 years, Girls Aloud. W hy are they so beloved? We connected with the girls, and still love them, because they were from an era before we were jaded beyond belief by television “talent” shows. Before there was X Factor, there was Popstars: The Rivals. It

produced One True Voice and Girls Aloud. Only one of these acts are on their tenth anniversary tour. The others are asking if you’d like to go large with that meal. And what made them endure? GA were like real people, we related to them from the outset. They were clumsy, a little awkward at times, making mistakes along the way, and that lack of polish made them endearing. They took around five years to become the complete product, and their Tangled Up album in 2007 was their creative pinnacle – it remains a classic of the genre, electronic pop at its most effective. And the show was, simply put, immaculate. From five icons emerging

amid the fireworks atop a glittering Girls Aloud sign to their classy exit dressed in red gowns after their shout to the Wall Of Sound, The Promise, last Saturday night was a lesson in showgirlship and how to construct a great pop show, that simultaneously showcased their run of peerless pop singles and the immense ability of their producers, Xenomania. Broken into four segments containing five of their classic songs (and one cover version, which ought to have been jettisoned in favour of the absent Long Hot Summer), it was a breathless and breathtaking exercise in how to do this kind of show just right. Ronan Keating was a few seats

away, no doubt furiously taking notes. I couldn’t see, I was too busy dancing. T h e m i n d b l ow i n g opening quintet – Sound Of The Underground, No Good Advice, Life Got Cold, Wake Me Up and Jump – was just a taster of what was to follow. Great pop songs sung well (very well by Nicola and Nadine, it must be said) and backed by a powerful and tight backing band, did complete justice to their legacy over the course of probably the best 90 minutes of pure pop the city will see this year. As the stagelights faded and the glitter cannons blasted their last, so Girls Aloud shall remain – timeless and classic.

If you’re a hoarder like me, then you’ve the ticket stub of every concert you’ve been to on a wall or stuffed in a box somewhere, along with band memorabilia you’ve collected over the years. And it’s times like this I’m glad I hang on to these things to remind me of memorable gigs... that my ailing memory struggles to recall, while my ear drums slowly deteriorate. If you were one of the lucky few to see Thin Lizzy rock out The Olympia Theatre last December, I hope you kept your ticket because, as of this month, fans will never see the band members go by that name again. The boys we’ve been calling Thin Lizzy, played their last gig under that moniker in Australia last weekend, supporting Kiss and Motley Crue. Thin Lizzy drummer Brian Downey and keyboardist Darren Wharton are also parting ways with the band, so now members Ricky Warwick, Damon Johnson, Scott Gorham and Marco Mendoza, together with drummer Jimmy DeGrasso (of Alice Cooper and Megadeth fame) are now officially called Black Star Riders. The Riders (whose name was inspired by Warwick’s favourite Western movie, Tombstone) say they changed their name “out of respect to the legacy of the late Phil Lynott”, although Lizzy fans can rest assured, the classic Lizzy hits will still be heard at their live gigs, alongside original material from the band. Black Star Riders’ debut album, All Hell Breaks Loose, will be released here on May 27, with the album’s first single, Bound For Glory, is out now. The album’s produced by Kevin Shirley, who’s worked with the likes of Journey, Aerosmith and Rush, and the band are hinting they’ll play another Dublin gig before the end of the year. Don’t forget to keep your ticket!


Gazette

24 LUCAN gazette 21 March 2013

OUT&ABOUT

adventure: Fun-packed holiday for We have 135,000* thrill seekers in adventureland readers each week *based on standard industry measurements

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Awaken spirit of adventure up North

 natalie burke

WHILE adventure holidays usually conjure up faint images of climbing Mount Everest, exploring the Grand Canyon or hiking an Alpine Trail, often the travelling dream for a lot of us can remain just a fantasy. So who would have thought that we could enjoy an unforgettable and adrenaline pumping adventure weekend right here on our own doorstep? Getting older, we have a tendency to lose the fearlessness we once had as a child. Suddenly strapping yourself into a roller-

coaster doesn’t seem quite so safe. But pushing your fear to the limit and challenging yourself with new adventures is one sure way to get your heart pumping and for me, on a recent trip to preview what is in store with this year’s Adventureland, it was one way of finding the child in me once again! The North Coast is set to host a total of 34 different activity events this weekend, for the third year of Adventureland. With everything from coasteering and sea safaris to paddle boarding and hovercrafting, Northern Ireland’s top events will be offered at a fraction of

the price for one weekend only. Setting off from Dublin, it was County Derry that was in our sights as our first pitstop. Just two and a half hours from Dublin is The Jungle NI, an awardwinning outdoor entertainment facility located on a very successful farm diversity project in Moneymore – one of many in Northern Ireland we were to find out. While paintballing, segways and clay-pigeon shooting were just some of the activities on the menu, it was the Tree Top adventure course we were there to try and attempt. The first in Ireland, it’s

Xplore Outdoors offers various activities, including kayaking

Brace yourself for the zip line and various challenges

a high wire course with a bit of a difference. It has over 40 challenging obstacles to try and overcome, with rope bridges, wooden swings, scramble nets and tight-ropes, which all sound easy enough until you discover that some of these are located 70ft in the air. It’s okay though, since you’re in safe hands and harnessed to safety wires throughout the forest, but it’s the fear of falling anyway that really makes this adventure all the more appealing! Highlights definitely included the Tarzan (or Jane) swing through the trees, a zipline and the freefall drop to safety. On solid ground again, it was less than an hour’s drive until our next port of call at Portrush Harbour, County Antrim, where we were to take part in something a little closer to land. During the Adventureland weekend – and all through the year

– Xplore Outdoors provide sessions celebrating everything the Great Outdoors has to offer including coasteering, mountain skills, rockclimbing and sea kayaking. And despite the freezing temperatures and threatening rain, it was the latter we decided to brave. Climbing into a wetsuit in the cold wind and rain wasn’t something I was used to doing, but as soon as we climbed into the kayaks and set about learning the ropes, so to speak, we were soon warmed up. While the weather failed to allow us to sail the high seas, our tutor Steve Hodge, explained how on a good day, the sea kayaking adventure takes kayakers to explore the numerous sea caves gracing the Northern Ireland coastline, and to see famous landmarks including the Causeway, Carrick-a-rede rope bridge and Dunluce Cas-


21 March 2013 LUCAN gazette 25

at the The Jungle NI at Moneymore

tle from a slightly different perspective. We stayed at the Ramada Hotel in Portrush, just five minutes from the harbour and at the very centre of the coastal town. With over 70 en-suite rooms, ours overlooked the Atlantic Ocean, and the Counties Bar and Restaurant was buzzing with locals and tourists alike. What better way to end an activity-filled day than to enjoy a well-deserved glass of wine, a delicious starter of tempura chicken satay and a steak covered in garlic and mushroom sauce? The fear was well worth the wait! A visit to the nearby Harbour Bar is a must for visitors hoping for a good pint of Guinness at the oldest pub in Northern Ireland. Ask for barman Willy and he’ll be certain to look after you. The following morning brought with it a scenic drive along the Coastal Causeway Route to Lima-

vady in Derry, the location of FoyleHov Hovercrafting. Another farm diversity project, the farm has acres of land perfect for activities and features rage buggying, target archery and laser clay shooting along with the arrival of new born lambs. Kitted out in our boiler-suits, we took to the hovercrafting track with its hair-pin turns and water hazards and discovered talents we never knew we had! Our timed laps even managed to beat a certain Gary Lineker, a previous visitor to the farm. With a total of 34 events taking place over the Adventureland week-

end, which takes place on March 23 and 24, all activity providers offer services throughout the year. So for those in search of an extra thrill this summer, visit www.OutdoorNI.com or www.dis covernorthernireland. com.

websites  www.thejungleni.

com  www.xploreout

doors.co.uk  www.foylehov.com  www.ramadapor

trush.com  www.outdoorni.com  www.discover

northernireland.com

Gazette

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21 March 2013 LUCAN Gazette 27

sport awards P29

asdfsdaf gaelic games P27 P31

dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community

Gazette

soccer P28

FastSport make some noise for katie:

Chloe Clarke, who appears with her sister, Ruby, in Three’s new advert showing the highs and lows of being an Ireland soccer fan

soccer: sandyford stars appear in new campaign to back the irish team

Superfans in focus as 3 pick local women to front new ads Two sisters from the south of Dublin have nabbed roles in the latest television advert for mobile phone provider Three, sponsor of the Irish football team, in recognition of their huge support for the Republic’s international soccer stars. Chloe and Ruby Clarke who reside in Sandyford and hail from Knocklyon have their own careers to reflect on, with both southside sisters having played for Templeogue United for nine years. The advert, entitled An Ode To Fans, features members of Ireland’s largest football supporters club, You Boys in

Green, who were approached to make sure that genuine fans would be the stars of the ad. As genuine fans go, Chloe is certainly entitled to that title, having attended her first match with her dad at the age of seven, when her Dad took the family to Malta when Ireland were playing. Since then, she has been to every home game, as well as a couple of away games every year. As a committed fan, emigrating was not even an issue, as Chloe explains. “I missed a couple of matches when

I was in Australia, which was hard. But I watched as many games as I could on television as possible, although most of the games were on at 4am.” Chloe flew home from Australia for the European championships last year, going to Posnan and Gdansk for Ireland’s matches, which was a memorable experience: “It was incredible. It was worth all the money in the world. Just going to the airport, kitted from head to toe in green. Everything is left behind, all you care about is the match. Everyone is backing each other up and support-

ing the team, and the adrenaline and the buzz can’t be gotten anywhere else.” As for being involved in the advert, Chloe said: “It was really enjoyable, I’ve never done anything like it. Just watching it now, I’m getting goosebumps ahead of the Sweden game. The ad captures what it is like to be a fan – especially the sleeping in the airport scene!” The advert arrives just in time for the World Cup qualifying matches against Sweden and Austria on March 22 and 26, and can be seen on Three’s Facebook page.

Katie Taylor is hoping that Irish fans can raise the roof like they did in London’s Docklands Arena at the Olympics in 2012 when she takes to the ring in Dublin and Castlebar this weekend. Promoter Brian Peters believes fans will make some noise for their heroine. “The Bord Gais Energy Theatre certainly lived up to its name last month,” said Peters. “We’re going to measure the decibels to see how they compare to the Olympics.” Tickets for Taylor’s bout in Dublin tomorrow (Friday, March 22) are priced from €40, with discounted tickets available for Under 14s from €25 and are available from the BGET box office and Ticketmaster.

c o n ta c t s Sports Editor: Rob Heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6205


Gazette

28 LUCAN Gazette 21 March 2013

SPORT

FastSport gaa stars unite to BEAT racism: Local GAA stars Barry Cahill and Cliona O’Connor were on hand to help launch a new education pack aimed at tackling racism in sports organisations and schools. The education pack, which has been developed by anti-racism charity Show Racism the Red Card, was launched at Croke Park, and coordinator Garrett Mullan spoke about the influence sport can have on addressing the issue. “Sports stars are well placed to tackle racism and set a positive example of integration. The beauty of sport is it unites people from all walks of life. It breaks down barriers. Our new education pack draws on this, and uses sport as a means of teaching young people about racism and related issues.” Further information is available at www.theredcard.ie.

international: side packed with local talent exceed expectations

Ireland make grade in Cyprus  sport@gazettegroup.com

The Republic of Ireland senior women’s team, featuring an array of Gazette Sport talent, finished the Cyprus Cup tournament in eighth place, an impressive and accomplished achievement for the team after topping their group in the opening stages. Going in as the side ranked tenth in the invitational tournament, the Irish women defeated Northern Ireland 5-1 and South Africa 2-0 in the group stages, drawing with world number 16 side, South Korea, in their group closer. South Korea are ranked 18 places higher in the FIFA World Rankings. Ireland went out to Finland, ranked 19th in the world and preparing for their third successive

appearance at the European Championship finals, who scored the only goal of the game through Sanna Talonen after 20 minutes . Speaking after the team arrived home last week, captain Emma Byrne, who originally hails from Leixlip and who plays her club soccer with Arsenal, was delighted with how the team had performed against higher-ranked opposition. “It was brilliant,” said Byrne. “Although we were very disappointed to lose to Finland and felt we should have beaten them, it was still a great week and has probably given Sue [Ronan, Ireland coach] a few selection headaches. “I was a bit apprehensive beforehand, especially as we were missing

so many big-hitters like Fiona O’Sullivan, Sophie Perry and Ciara Grant, but the young players who came in were really good and ever ybody gelled together so well,” said Byrne. The goalkeeper found herself thrown in at the deep end as Sue Ronan was forced through injuries, withdrawals and retirements to name an inexperienced squad with six uncapped players and only six with 20 or more caps, and was proud of the side’s achievement, though disappointed with the way they exited the tournament. “The game against South Korea was a great test and we did very well against a good side but we didn’t play as well as we can against Finland and we gave away a

Ireland captain and goalkeeper, Emma Byrne, pictured here in yellow in the back row, was pleased with the side’s performance in Cyprus

sloppy goal so that was disappointing because I felt we were the better team.” Byrne was named as team captain ahead of the tournament in succession to Arsenal teammate Ciara Grant who decided to retire from international football at the age of 34 after a record 105 appearances. Although Byrne captained the team in the

US last December, this was her first outing since being given the armband permanently and she admitted she enjoyed the role up to a point. “I love the pitch part of the job, leading the team out, doing the toss and being like a motherfigure to the other players. I didn’t like having to know all the times of things we were doing or choosing what to wear at each. I think I’ll have

to delegate that bit next time,” quipped Byrne who admitted that she looking forward to leading the team out at Tallaght on June 18 when Ireland plays Austria. “That will be a brilliant moment to lead the team out in front of my family and friends,” said Byrne. The team’s next game will be on Tuesday, June 18, against Austria at Tallaght Stadium.

Leinster referees get masterclass from elite Fresh from refereeing the recent Six Nations clash with France at the Aviva Stadium, International Rugby Board (IRB) elite panel referees Steve Walsh from New Zealand and England’s Wayne Barnes and Greg Garner took time out to take part in a refereeing workshop, hosted by Emirates Airline, at Old Wesley RFC. Thirty aspiring amateur referees from a number of Leinster clubs were taken through their paces by the

professionals and given coaching in areas such as the latest laws, big game preparation and management, training and diet. The guinea pigs for the event were Old Wesley players themselves, who were used in the drills and law explanations on the field. Those in attendance also had the opportunity to quiz the IRB men on what it takes to earn and maintain a place on the IRB elite panel and what

it’s like to have a career in international refereeing. Emirates, which operates a daily service from Dublin to Dubai and beyond, has sponsored the IRB international referees panel since 2006, a partnership which sees the Fly Emirates logo proudly displayed on officials’ clothing across the Six Nations, Tri-Nations, international tours, U-19 and U-21 internationals and the IRB Sevens Series.

The group of Leinster amateur referees who attended the workshop at Old Wesley


21 March 2013 LUCAN Gazette 29

Gazette

Dublin heroes get their just rewards

The fourth annual Dublin Sport Awards was a night that celebrated the best in local sport, and saw legends old and new crowned in recognition of their achievements For the last four years, it has been a challenge to sit down and pick out the monthly heroes who are nominated in Gazette Sport’s Dublin Sport Awards. The scale of the achievements that we have the privilege to report on every week is remarkable, which makes the task even harder. We had another wonderful year in 2012, and it came to a celebratory close at the Red Cow Moran Hotel last week with the fourth Dublin Sport Awards gala evening. We always aim to recognise those who go further, run faster, train harder and succeed, sometimes against the

 rob heigh sport@gazettegroup.com

odds, and this year was no exception. Honouring Catherine Walsh and St Brigid’s Under-14s were, in the end, the clear choices in a year of amazing performances and achievements. Annexing silver and bronze in London last year, as well as gold at the World Track Championships in Los Angeles, was only a small part of what makes Catherine Walsh a true star.

She has competed in no less than six Paralympic Games, making her unique in the history of Irish sport. Catherine identified the positive response of the crowds, fans and supporters of the Paralympics as a huge legacy that she hopes will continue. “London was an amazing experience for everyone, friends and family, and the fans who were able to watch the games in real time. For a lot of people, for them to be able to share in it and feel part of the atmosphere, was really special. “I would hope that the support the Paralympics received will continue.

Boxing legend Mick Dowling receives his Dublin Sports Legend award from Red Cow Moran Hotel’s Adrian Sherry

The Paralympics is nearly more empowering than the Olympics. “I hope that people out there of a competitive nature in the sporting arena, or whatever your goal is, you should just go for it. If you have the ambition and passion

each month’s prizes on the night, really polished off their year – the lads were delighted with their awards.” Also rewarded was Dublin boxing hero Mick Dowling in recognition of his years of support of the sport and his unique

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

‘Whatever your goal is, you should just go for it. If you have the ambition and passion to do it, you can do anything’ - Catherine Walsh, Sport Star of the Year --------------------------------------------------------

to do it, you can do anything.” St Brigid’s Under-14s also achieved something unique and historic. With the footballers defeating Portlaoise in their All-Ireland final, and the hurlers seeing off Clarinbridge after coming under pressure in their final, this remarkable group of players are the first in GAA history to win the hurling and football double. Dublin legend Keith Barr, who manages the St Brigid’s Under-14 footballers was on hand to extend his praise to what he described as a “phenomenal bunch of players”. “It’s a wonderful award and to be considered as the team of the year, especially considering the esteemed company of the teams who won

and insightful analysis of the sweet science on radio and television. “It’s impor tant to have nights like this and awards like this,” said Dowling, “It’s good that some of the lesser known local teams and individuals get an opportunity to be honoured. “As for the future, I think there is a conveyor belt of really good talent, under-age talent, in all sports. Looking at the winners tonight from St Brigid’s, from Blanchardstown and Castleknock, the talent that they have is exceptional.” All in all, it was an exceptional year, and we’re already looking forward to reporting on Dublin’s finest throughout 2013, and to next year’s Dublin Spor t Awards.

FastSport

Take part and win with Gazette Sport and SPAR Great Ireland Run Dublin Gazette Newspapers have teamed up again this year with the SPAR Great Ireland Run to recognise the top runners in each of our local areas. The Gazette will recognise the fastest man and woman from each paper’s circulation area with a specially designed plaque as well as prizes of sports gear. After the run, we will also be publishing a results list of the top local male and female finishers. The SPAR Great Ireland Run 2013 will take place in the Phoenix Park on Sunday, April 14, at 1pm. Up to 12,000 entries are expected and every adult entrant will receive an exclusive technical T shirt as well as a medal and a generous goody bag after completing the run. Entries can be made online at www.greatirelandrun.org.


Gazette

30 LUCAN Gazette 21 March 2013

SPORT

FastSport

boxing: katie planning beyond irish warm-up bouts

Lucan ET take prize at SDCC cricket blitz LUCAN Educate Together claimed top cricket honours last week at the South Dublin County Council primary school sports blitz at Clondalkin Leisure Centre. The event is held every year to raise awareness of the European Week Against Racism. Fairness, equality and sportsmanship are the values that the day promotes and reinforces among the schoolchildren of the SDCC area. All areas of the county including Tallaght, Balgaddy, Neilstown, Walkinstown and Adamstown were represented by the eight participating schools, each representing a different nation. The SDCC cricket development team had spent the previous two weeks delivering introductory cricket coaching sessions in each of the schools in order to make sure all schools were well prepared for the eagerly awaited event. Lucan Educate Together, representing the Czech Republic, on the day came out winners after a fun and competitive day’s cricket. They were presented with the Mayor’s Cup by SDCC Mayor Cathal King. St Damien’s, Perrystown representing Estonia were also impressive. Irish internationals Kenny Carroll and Amy Kenealy along with Paul O’Hara and Ciaran Divney made sure the tournament ran smoothly as they coached, umpired and scored for the duration of the event. This blitz was the first day’s cricket of the year in the SDCC area with much more cricket activity to look forward to. It was the first time many of the schools had played the game and the pupils and teachers enjoyed it immensely with many receiving further coaching visits from the SDCC cricket development team in the coming months.

Having been unavailable to attend the Dublin Sport Awards earlier this month, Katie Tayor receives her prize from Jeff Toole of KO Magazine

Taylor relishing ring return  sport@gazettegroup.com

HAVING practically raised the roof at the Excel Arena during last year’s Olympic Games, Katie Taylor is hoping that Irish fans can repeat the trick on home soil for her bouts in Dublin and Castlebar later this month. Taylor’s fans will get the opportunity to recreate that atmosphere when she returns to the Bord Gais Energy Theatre in Dublin on Friday, March 22 before heading West on Sunday, March 24 for a bout at the Royal Theatre in

Castlebar. The Olympic Gold medallist tackles Ukrainian champ Yulia Tsiplakova in Dublin before facing old rival, Denista Eliseeva, the last boxer to have secured a victory over Taylor, in Castlebar. Taylor is relishing the prospect of another two fights in quick succession as part of her preparations for the upcoming European Union Championships which will take place in Hungary in early July. “It was like the Excel Arena all over again stepping into the ring at the Bord Gáis Energy

hooked on a feeling Weston contest firstever Leinster final weston hockey club contested their first ever Leinster U-16 boys cup final on St Patrick’s Day in Grange Road, when they took an impressive Monkstown side who ran out handsome winners in the end. The Lucan club only began competing at this age group two seasons ago following the growth of their youth section, and their arrival in the final was testament to the coaching work put in by the likes of Philip Corcoran at the club.

Theatre. I got a huge reception from the fans and it really lifts you. I was happy with my performance but I’m always looking to improve and it’s those little improvements that can be the difference when it comes to the major championships.” Katie’s father and trainer Pete is keen to stress how seriously they are approaching this month’s bouts. “I don’t think people realise just how seriously Katie and her opponents are taking these bouts,” said Pete. “Katie’s approach is to treat every fight as if

it’s an Olympic final and to never look beyond her next fight. For the opponents it’s a massive opportunity for them to take on a reigning Olympic Champion on a big show so they all raise their game because of that. Katie is the girl they all want to beat now so it’s a lot of pressure on Katie but she handles it brilliantly.” Taylor ’s opponent in Castlebar, Denista Eliseeva is the last woman to have had her hand raised against Taylor. Eliseeva was awarded a controversial points win over Taylor just over

two years ago in a multi nations tournament in her native Bulgaria and there was little doubt that it was a hometown decision. “Whenever people say that she is the last girl to beat Katie I always correct them and say she was the last to get a decision over her,” explained Peter. “Nobody in the arena outside of the judges thought that Katie lost that fight. Katie has avenged every defeat she’s ever had and she beat Eliseeva later that same year so we’re looking forward to meeting her again in Castlebar.”


21 March 2013 LUCAN Gazette 31

Gazette

Lucan Harriers take flight on the streets  sport@gazettegroup.com

Lucan Harriers were well represented across the country throughout the bank holiday weekend, with representatives from the local athletic club taking part in the St Patrick’s Day Festival 5km race, which was run around the streets of Dublin, and at the Tralee

Marathon and Half Marathon. The St Patrick’s Day 5k is one of the few opportunities available to run around the streets of Dublin city centre traffic free, and it was all the better with the great weather on Saturday morning providing ideal racing conditions. All Lucan athletes

had great results, with Patrick Holden first man home for Lucan in 18.42, quickly followed by Garry Mortimer in a time of 19.10 in his first 5km race. For the ladies, Hilary McGee was the first lady home, in an impressive 20.59. Bernie Stapleton came home in 22.02, and Bernie was quickly fol-

lowed by Myra Nolan in her first race of 2013, in a time of 22.39. By all accounts, the Tralee marathon proved to be very challenging, with a very hilly course which tested even the most experienced marathon runners. Running in Lucan colors were Brian Lammon and Una Cassoni.

Club Noticeboard lucan sarsfields Membership is now due and can be

to see all the hard work in the long

paid online through our website,

dark nights of winter start to pay off

www.lucansarsfields.ie, or at the

on the field. We wish a speedy recov-

clubhouse bar. There will be a strict

ery to U-9 dual star Andrew Kennedy

no pay, no play policy in place this

who broke his hand last week.

year. Our golf society’s first outing is at The famous K-Club on April 6. New members are welcome, and the membership fee is only €20. Trath na gCeist (Quiz) is on Thurs-

nFL & NHL Division 1: football, hurlers lose AT HQ

Our senior hurlers play Ballyboden next Sunday morning at 11am in the 12th Lock. For every club member who books a course in Colaiste Laichtin for July or August, the club will receive €100.

day, March 21, in Oliver Plunkett’s at

Our nurseries for boys and girls

7.30pm. Teams of four primary school

born in 2006, 2007 and 2008 continue

children. Contact Stiofan on 087 680

every Saturday at 1.30pm on our

4124 if interested.

all-weather pitch at The 12th Lock.

Saturday, March 16 saw just two

Camogie nursery at 2.15pm for girls

of our five U-9 teams in action with

aged six and over. This is your child’s

a game against Templeogue Synge

chance to be coached by Dublin sen-

Street at the 12th Lock. A beautiful

ior hurling captain Johnny McCaf-

Saturday morning saw some beau-

frey.

tiful football as Lucan recorded two wins against battling Templeogue

S e t d a n cin g co n tinu e s e ach Wednesday at 8.30pm.

sides. On top of some strong and

25 card drive continues every Fri-

determined defending, the boys

day night in the Clubhouse, €5 entry,

scored some excellent team points as

1st prize €50. All welcome.

the build-up passing was often bet-

This weeks lotto numbers will be

ter than the scores. One particular

available on our website. Colette

score saw three passes from goal-

Condon’s team will be in charge next

keeper to midfield up to our forwards

Sunday night when our sponsor will

to slot over the bar. It is encouraging

be Molloy’s Stores, Ballydowd.

round tower Lucan Sarsfields Johnny McCaffrey was unable to help Dublin past the challenge of Limerick at Croke Park

Dublin’s dual teams dip in form at Croker  sport@gazettegroup.com

IT PROVED a weekend to forget in terms of the National League for Dublin’s footballers and hurlers as both fell to their first defeats of the campaign in Croke Park last Saturday. On the hurling side, Limerick prevailed 1-21 to 1-15 as they closed out the game with four unanswered points to cruise home ahead of a side that featured Lucan Sarsfields’ Peter Kelly and Johnny McCaffrey along with St Pat’s Palmerstown. Dublin finished the game with 14 men after Paul Ryan was straight

red-carded in the 51st minute and the writing was on the wall for Anthony Daly’s men not long after. They had led 0-6 to 0-1 after 23 minutes and could have been out of sight as Conor McCormack, David O’Callaghan and Ryan all missed goal chances - to add to that Dublin hit nine wides in the opening half. They ended up just a point up at the break but McCormack netted four minutes after the break to assert a 1-11 to 0-9 lead. But then the momentum began to swing Limerick’s way as John Allen

adjusted his team to telling effect and they outscored Dublin 1-12 to four points down the stretch. The footballers’ winning run under Jim Gavin came to an end as Tyrone shaded their encounter 0-18 to 1-14 in NFL division one. They made a decent start and scored in the 16th minute. Philly Ryan applied the finishing touch after Kevin McManamon had scythed his way through the Tyrone defence to push his side 1-3 to 0-2 clear. However, alarm bells were ringing at times in the Dublin defence with

Stephen O’Neill and Peter Harte dominating the spine of the Tyrone attack. Tyrone closed out the opening half by scoring three points in succession to lead 0-10 to 1-6. And they progressed that lead to 0-18 to 1-12 clear when Michael Darragh Macauley rampaged through their defence but skied his goal effort over the crossbar. A goal at this juncture may have seen Dublin edge home in a tight finish but as it was Tyrone held on to join Dublin at the top of the division along with Kildare.

Membership is now overdue. Renewal forms available on the club website

Lotto results: Numbers drawn were 7, 12, 24 and 30; Bonus Ball 26.

or in reception in the clubrooms.

There was no winner of the jackpot

Only members who have renewed by

of €10,000. Congratulations to Gerry

March 31 will be entitled to vote at

Corcoran, Roger O and Matt McCor-

next year’s AGM.

mack who were the three €100 win-

Details have been announced of

ners. There was no Match 3 + Bonus

celebrations planned to mark the

Ball winner. This week’s jackpot is

official opening of the Monastery

€10,000.

Road development. On Friday, April

Pick your Lotto team leader and

19, a gala dinner will be held in Mon-

help them become the top Friday

astery Road and the following day the

night seller. One hour once every

Dublin senior footballers will play an

seven weeks is all it takes. If you are

intercounty fixture. Further details

able to help, please contact Matt

available on our website. Tickets for

McCormack on 087 683 6737 or email

the dinner are priced at €45, and can

info@roundtower.ie

be booked by contacting Jessica O’Malley at 087 280 6273. Ciaran Carr Foundation fundraiser and official launch will take place in

Entry is open for Flora Women’s Mini Marathon on Monday, June 3. Anyone interested, please contact Jessica O’Malley at 087 280 6273.

clubrooms on Saturday, April 6, with

RT Golf Society first outing three-

music by Farmer & Friends. This will

man scramble is in Palmerstown

be the official release date of Carsie’s

House on Saturda y, March 23.

Song. Admission €5, or a donation.

Timesheet from 11.20am to 1pm is

Please support, all welcome.

open. Bookings being taken by Tony

Bookings are now being taken for

Keogh on 087 255 0744.

Easter Camps from March 25 to 28

The clubrooms are available for

between 10am and 2pm in Monas-

rental for parties, anniversaries,

tery Road for children aged four to

etc. Please contact Jimmy behind the

12. Cost €35 per child. Please contact

bar or call (01) 459 2960.

Catherine Moran 086 830 3207 or Noel Kelly 087 656 7942.

The club shop is open every Monday night from 7.30 to 8.30pm.


GazetteSPORT all of your lucan sports coverage from page 27-31

depleted dublin downed: Double dose of disappointment for footballers and hurlers P31

march 21, 2013

Ireland on the rise: Ladies reach last eight of international contest P28

Coghlan’s delight with Ireland Slam FIONA Coghlan is hoping the Irish women’s rugby team’s heroics will spur a growth in the sport in the coming years after their epic Grand Slam was completed on St Patrick’s Day in Milan, beating Italy 6-3. The Lucan Community College teacher captained the side to glory, becoming just the third person to lead Ireland to a Slam, in the footsteps of Karl Mullen and Brian O’Driscoll. Speaking about the achievement, she hopes that women’s rugby can capitalise on this moment and progress the sport on an even bigger stage: “I hope it brings that bit more exposure, that people become more aware of it with more kids getting involved,” she said.

“As a result, the standard will be raised and we can become world beaters. At the moment, we’re a very good team but we need to be consistent every time we play. We’re not there yet, but that’s the way we are going. “It would be brilliant if money [from sponsors] came in but, honestly, I’m more interested in getting people out and playing.” She returned to Lucan during the week to show off the trophy to her students and colleagues and she added that there is massive potential for the current crop of Irish players to build on the Grand Slam. “There are some many young players coming through like Larissa Muldoon, Ashley Baxter, Niamh Kavan-

agh; they have a lot of years ahead of them if they want it and they’re only going to get better. “It’s an absolute honour to be involved in this squad. The commitment of the players is just unbelievable; we’re all such good friends which makes it even better on the pitch. “The organisation and commitment of the girls during the week and in the lead up to games and getting themselves back recovered again after games is just testament to them, testament to our squad. Just everyone has worked so hard to get here.” In wild conditions, they edged over the line with two penalties from fullback Niamh Briggs to secure their fifth successive win in the competition.

Italy gained an early lead in rainy Parabiago through Veronica Schiavon’s third-minute penalty, but Briggs answered for Ireland 10 minutes later. It remained 3-3 up to half-time with Briggs, who went closest to scoring the game’s only try, missing an injury-time penalty. Marie Louise Reilly marshalled a very effective lineout, from which the Italians struggled to contain the Irish maul at times and the visitors’ lion’s share of territory should have seen them ahead by the break. But repeated ruck infringements led to Italy prop Lucia Gai earning a yellow card and Briggs split the posts with a 51st minute penalty that ultimately won the day.

Ireland’s Fiona Coghlan sees the Grand Slam as a means to grow the sport among young people


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