Lucan

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Our supplement has all you need as you continue your studies

August 18-24, 2016

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A BEATLES-THEMED TRIP TO LIVERPOOL

P&O FERRIES is offering you and a friend a Beatles-themed break in the city that helped the Fab Four rocket to international fame – lovely Liverpool! The ferry service operates three times daily, offering a relaxing eight-hour crossing.

The prize includes: • Return travel for a car and two passengers with P&O Ferries on the Dublin to Liverpool route, including cooked breakfast and high tea; • On board, the winners can also relax in their own personal cabin; • Two nights’ bed and breakfast in the Crown Plaza Hotel; • A three-course meal for two at Muray restaurant; • A Beatles Fab Four Taxi Tour.

To be in with a chance of winning, answer this question: How many hours is the sailing from Dublin to Liverpool?

A) 8; B) 9; or C) 10 Email your answer by Friday, August 26 to: competitions@dublingazette. com, or see our Facebook page.

TECH To infinity and beyond Page 22

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

High hopes for Bill to legalise cannabis use Push by Deputy Gino Kenny (PBP) focuses on drug’s medicinal value

 IAN BEGLEY

IRELAND needs to get with the times and regulate cannabis for medical use, according a local TD. Deputy Gino Kenny (PBP), is calling on the Government to legalise canna-

bis for medicinal purposes.

He recently introduced the “Cannabis for Medicinal Use Regulation 2016” Bill in the Dail, which also called for the establishment of a cannabis regulation authority.

Deputy Kenny said: “I

hope we can have a real debate about the use of medical cannabis for medicinal purposes in Ireland.

The Bill calls for a cannabis regulation authority and distributors to be licensed.”

Sandra Mullen, co-ordinator of the Clondalkin

Drugs Task Force, told The Gazette that the matter is a very complex issue, and the body won’t be able to come up with an official position on the Bill until it is discussed in depth.

Full Story on Page 2

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Zone to Calls to legalise Play benefit from cannabis use for €30k in funds medical purposes

CELBRIDGE | UPGRADE

 IAN BEGLEY

A LOCAL TD has made calls to regulate cannabis for medicinal use, claiming Ireland is behind the times.

The bill “Cannabis for Medicinal Use Regulation 2016” was recently introduced in the Dail

by Deputy Gino Kenny (PBP) who also called for the establishment of a cannabis regulation authority.

He said: “I’m very proud that we have submitted this bill before the Dail recess. Ireland is behind the times when it

comes to matters like this.

“I hope we can have a real debate about the use of medical cannabis for medicinal purposes in Ireland. The bill calls for a cannabis regulation authority and distributors to be licensed.

“Many states in the US and now Europe have legislated for the medical benefits of medical cannabis for aggressive forms of epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, cancer and chronic pain relief.”

The bill, which was was read out by party colleague Brid Smith, said it was an “intelligent

People Before Profit TD Gino Kenny

and very worthwhile proposal”.

She described how she met with society representatives who cite cannabis oil as pain relief substance for people with Dravet syndrome –

a severe form of epilepsy.

“The second group, who I know from living in Ballyfermot, are the MS sufferers. The cannabis oil helps alleviate the nausea, pain, that go with MS. “Legalising cannabis is an issue that receives strong support online, with many seeing the benefits it can provide for sick patients and also as a revenue earner, but no Irish government to date has seriously contemplated the possibility,” she said.

Sandra Mullen, co -ordinator of the Clondalkin Drugs Task Force, told The Gazette that the matter is a very complex issue and won’t be able to come up with an official position on the bill until it is discussed in depth.

“In terms of legalising cannabis for medical use the drugs task force would have to explore and discuss the matter thoroughly.

“There are lots of

different approaches required. It’s not as straightforward as simply making something legal for medical purposes. There are all sorts of implications and consequences in that.

“How do you regulate cannabis and how do you make sure it’s only used for medical purposes? These are the things that need to be discussed,” she said.

This is not the first time when the call for a more liberal approach towards drug use was proposed by a Dublin Mid-West representative.

Last year, local Cllr Francis Timmons (Ind) called for all drugs to be decriminalised and that people found with drugs for personal use should be free from criminal conviction.

Timmons believes that those found with drugs for personal use should be given a warning, a fine or be directed to drug awareness classes for treatment.

CELBRIDGE Play Zone will benefit from a whopping €30,000 after a successful fundraising campaign by lending company Linked Finance.

The funds were raised through Linked Finance’s online lending platform (www.linkedfinance.com) and are being used to upgrade the play area and purchase additional play equipment.

Celbridge Play Zone is a family-owned children’s activity centre that promotes healthy exercise through play, and is run by Pat and Annette Kelly, who set up the business in December 2005.

In order to continue to offer the highest quality of service to their customers, Pat and Annette approached Linked Finance to raise funds to upgrade the play zone.

Pat Kelly said: “Our primary aim as a business is to provide a fun and safe environment for all the children and parents who use our facilities. With the help of Linked Finance we have been able to invest in improving our play area and ensuring, as always, that the customer’s needs come first.

“We have worked really hard to grow our reputation and provide our visitors with the highest possible level of customer service, this is something Linked Finance recognised in us, and threw their support behind us wholeheartedly to make sure we could advance our business goals.”

Over the past three years, Linked Finance has helped over 420 businesses all over Ireland to raise funding to meet their business objectives. In Kildare, Linked Finance has supported 24 different businesses, raising a total of €568,500 for them. In its next phase of growth it is targeting to have lent over €350m to SMEs by the end of 2019.

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

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CONTEST | PET INSPIRES OWNER TO RAISE MUCH-NEEDED FUNDS FOR DOGS TRUST IRELAND

Hopes high Holly the collie can take ‘Nose Of Tralee’ title  SYLVIA POWNALL

Holly and Angela love nothing more than walking along Portmarnock beach

MEET Holly the collie – Dublin’s entrant in the nationwide Nose of Tralee contest.

The 11-month-old border collie came out tops in the capital’s canine stakes beating 1,200 other pets in the process.

Now with just over a week left in the voting, devoted owner Angela Murphy is hoping she’ll win the title.

Angela, from Glasnevin, revealed: “When our last dog Trixie passed away before Christmas, the house seemed so empty and quiet.

“We never dreamt another pet could ever take her place, until we set eyes on new puppy, Holly.”

Holly – who won Petmania Puppy of the Year in April – was painfully shy when Angela first got her but now she’s coming out of her shell.

Legal executive Angela said: “She has gained a lot of confidence since then, though she is still very shy and hides under the sofa when people come to visit.

“She’s terrified of strangers, bicycles, skate boards, balloons and any kind of noise, but she is trying her best to be more brave.”

Holly loves nothing more than a walk along Portmarnock beach or the Bull Wall and although she can be boisterous, Angela says she was incredibly gentle around her mum when she got ill.

“Sadly after she passed away in February Holly stepped in and filled yet another empty space in our hearts,” said Angela.

“She never fails to make us laugh or smile. We can’t

imagine life without her now.”

The coddled collie – groomed by Angela’s sister Jennifer - has started taking part in competitions and events like sponsored walks, and has inspired Angela to raise muchneeded funds for Dogs Trust Ireland.

She told the Dublin Gazette: “If Holly is lucky enough to win the Nose of Tralee crown she will work hard and help me promote animal awareness and raise funds to help less fortunate animals.

“I think every animal should have the love of a good home.”

Vote for Holly online at http:// wshe.es/aWkqK2Dg. People can vote every 24 hours up to 22 August.

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BALGADDY | DUBLIN DIOCESE MOVE TO ALLOW LAND REMAIN IN PUBLIC HANDS

‘Breakthrough’ in dispute over Community Garden  IAN BEGLEY A LONG-STANDING, bitter dispute between the local diocese and the community over ownership rights of Balgaddy Community Garden could reach an end after a “breakthrough” development.

Earlier last year, a row erupted over plans to turn the garden into a car park as part of an extension to the adjacent Balgaddy Resource Centre.

This caused outrage amongst local residents who had transformed the piece of land into an area where the community could grow vegeta-

bles, flowers and plants.

They had also created an impressive children’s play area.

The South Lucan Pastoral Council had even temporarily closed the garden, with confusion as to whether they had the legal right to do so.

A new lock was then put onto the garden’s gate preventing anyone from entering the space.

Now in a positive turn-around, the Dublin Diocese have made a proposal to South Dublin County Council, which involves an agreement that would allow the land on which the community garden is located to

remain in public ownership.

Dublin Mid-West Deputy Eoin O Broin (SF) welcomed the “breakthrough” development.

He said: “It has always been our view that a solution could be found that would allow the garden to continue in its current location without any way preventing the future development of the Bush Centre on its current location.

“I am delighted that the Dublin Diocese have now made a formal proposal to South Dublin County Council which I believe will resolve the dispute.

“I want to commend those involved within the Dublin Diocese who have worked hard on this matter behind the scenes for a number of months.

“The proposal would involve a new Section 183 land disposal that would give the Dublin Diocese legal title to the land which is currently being used for car parking while leaving the land where the community garden is situated in the ownership of the council.

“Any future development of the Bush Centre would take place on the site where the centre is currently located.

“In my view such a

package would represent a significant gain for the local community and on that basis I believe that the council should waive the original fee from the 1997 land disposal.

“The proposal represents a victory for common sense and will go a long way to rebuilding the strained relationships between the parish and the local community,” he said.

Balgaddy resident and long-time campaigner for the Balgaddy Community Garden Lorraine Hennessy told The Gazette that she is very pleased with the development.

“We had a meeting

with the Dublin Diocese and the parish council recently where they expressed how regrettable they were regarding what happened and that they didn’t want to fall out with the community.

“They were willing to give up their interest in the garden site and surrender it back to the council so we can remain here.

“We’re delighted that they finally came around and acknowledged that it wasn’t a good idea.

“We hope now we can all put this behind us and move on,” Ms Hennessy told The Gazette.

FASTNews New Milano outlet opens

PIZZA lovers in Liffey Valley are in for a treat this month as Milano has officially opened its doors at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, creating 45 local jobs.

Located beside VUE Cinema, outside the shopping centre, the new restaurant can seat over 180 customers, spans over two floors and can cater for private groups and large parties. The opening has created 45 local jobs for new team members including 10 Pizzaiolos and 20 waiters and waitress, ensuring that all guests are well catered for.

Around 2,500 kilos of dough will be used in the first month as the team prepares to serve 6,000 pizzas and 3,000 portions of Milano’s iconic Dough Balls.

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GazetteGALLERY

| LARGEST EVER CANNONBALL EVENT IS ON THE WAY

Eoghan McDermott

Models Natalia Piechaczek and Sinead Duffy

Going up a gear D Glenda Gilson and Rob McNaughton

Izabela Chudzicka

ETAILS of the largest ever Cannonball event, which takes place from September 9 to 11 all over Ireland, were announced at a VIP party in Zozimus last weekend. Now in its eighth year, the Supercar spectacle has raised over â‚Ź850,000 for Irish charities and this year, proceeds will go to Pieta House. Cannonball goes up a gear this year with 190 supercars and over 150,000 spectators expected to line the streets all over Ireland, making it the largest ever Cannonball event. The gleaming convoy will drive through 900km of Irish open roads with stops in Dublin, Cavan, Westport, Bunratty, Galway, Tullamore and Wexford.

R1

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€48k grant boost for youth club

BALLYMOUNT | EMERGENCY MEETING

Waste charges freeze welcomed WASTE is in danger of becoming the new Irish Water, according to South County Mayor Guss O’Connell (Ind).

C o u n c i l l o r s we r e recently informed that the contract for Ballymount had been awarded to Panda Waste Management and that the charges were being increased from the first of August (€15 - €18.50).

The Mayor and other councillors expressed their shock and annoyance at the news as they had not been given any prior information and had not discussed it in the council chamber.

Having discussed the situation with other councillors, the Mayor called a special meeting of the council. The emergency

meeting got cross-party support and was very well attended with practically all councillors contributing to the debate.

Mayor O’Connell said: “The responsibility for waste management was removed from elected councillors some years and is now the responsibility of the council CEO. “It is our (councillors) contention that decisions such as the charges in Ballymount should be fully discussed by both the Specific Policy Committee (SPC) dealing with waste and with the council in session. Neither happened on this occasion.

“The executive apologised for the manner in which both the decision was made and commu-

nicated and pointed out that the facility was operating at a loss of €500,000 pa. The good news is that the executive has reposed to case made by the elected members and has negotiated a price freeze with Panda.

“The charges at Ballymount remain at the old prices. The whole issue of how waste is managed in the county will now have to be debated at the SPC in the first place and in the council chamber,” he said.

The proposed changes have been deferred by order of the Minister for 12 months and households with Greyhound Recycling were asked to choose to stay with the old system or move to the new before the end of July.

It’s a dog’s life as pups arrive

DUBLIN Zoo’s African painted dog population is on the increase as they have welcomed seven new pups. This brings the total number at Dublin Zoo to eleven. In preparing for the birth, the female excavated a deep burrow in the ground and for weeks the animal care team could only guess what was happening. It is not until the new-borns open their eyes approxi-

mately three weeks after birth that she brings them to surface to the sunlight. To see the pack, visit the African Plains at Dublin Zoo. African painted dogs may also be known as African wild dogs or hunting dogs and have a unique coat pattern which makes them easily recognisable. There are an estimated 6,000 African painted dogs in the wild. Picture: Patrick Bolger

RONANSTOWN Youth Service is in line for a €48,000 grant to refurbish its clubhouse.

The capital grant was approved by the Department of Children and Youth and will go towards building, electrical and plumbing work as well as soft furnishings for the centre.

Ta n a i s t e F r a n c e s Fitzgerald welcomed the news and said it would benefit young people in Clondalkin.

The Fine Gael TD told the Gazette: “I know from visiting the youth projects and organisations in my area the crucial role they play in supporting young people throughout the country.”

Ronanstown Youth Service is one of the most active in the area and organised a number of day trips for teenagers over the summer.

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DUBLINGazetteGALLERY |

STUNNERS FROM ALL OVER IRELAND GATHER IN

Natalia Piechaczek and Bogdan Petric. Pictures: Brian McEvoy Shannen Reilly McGrath

Allanna Hennessy and Sharon Hennessy

Jasmine Gerhardt and Aoife McGrane

Aisling O’Reilly and Tierna Slevin

Eileen Moore and Ann Marie Blake

Ciara Quinn and Zara Crowley

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DUBLIN’S LILLIE’S BORDELLO FOR THE LAUNCH OF THE 69TH MISS IRELAND

Beauty queens bidding for title B

EAUTIES from all over the country descended on Dublin’s Lillie’s Bordello for the launch of the 69th Miss Ireland.

The hotly contested heats have drawn to a close, with 35 contestants emerging victorious in the beauty, poise and personality

stakes.

The final is set to take place on September 23 in Dublin’s Crowne Plaza Hotel and the winner will represent the country at the final of Miss World, which will be held on December 20 in Washington DC.

Sinead Connery and Niamh Burke

Ciara Buckley and Niamh Kennedy NIamh Enright and Lauren Guilfoyle

Nicole Forde and Niamh Boyle

Colleen O’Reilly and Sorcha Farrell

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DUBLINBUSINESS

Top tips for those seeking employment in today’s market THE recruitment industry has changed significantly in the past five years, according to Irish recruitment consultancy, Osborne.

T heir recr uitment experts have compiled five top tips on how to search for a new job in today’s market.

1. Ever y thing and everyone is online now.

When CVs land on employers and recruiters’ desks, a candidate’s online profile is often checked.

Before applying for a

role or sending out a CV, view your public online profile from a prospective employer’s position.

Maybe it’s time to tidy up your online and social media presence?

2. Optimise your LinkedIn page and ensure your profile is completely upto-date and focused on the sector or industry you would like to work in.

Also, ensure you can be easily found (via keywords) and contacted online by potential employers.

3. Use your existing

networks and contacts and don’t burn bridges!

4. As cultural fit becomes more and more important to employees and employers, investigate the companies you are applying to and make sure their organisational culture is aligned with your values.

5. Personalise your application to the role and company you are applying for. Employers are looking for people with a genuine interest in working for their company.

Tackling the deficit of women in technology careers

PICTURED are Ringsend College students Shauna Montgomery, Chloe McDonnell and Laura Byrne with mentors Dovile Janusauskaite, Laura Murphy and Sophie Sorel from Murex as they took part in the Teen-Turn programme. The pioneering initiative is helping to get more schoolgirls interested in technology careers. Once placed, each intern is assigned a female mentor and all those involved participate in a two-week tailored technology project.

INSHIP | SAVING BUSINESSES TIME AND MONEY

Start-up strives for paperless office  EMMA NOLAN A DUBLIN start-up is working towards creating paperless offices by eliminating what it labels one of the ‘last hurdles’.

InShip provide automated invoice processing software to SMEs to deal with their suppliers’ invoices and their aim is to save businesses time and money by removing the need to process invoices manually.

Phil Lennon of InShip explains that as every transaction ends with an invoice, 99% of businesses process these documents manually

and file away a paper invoice.

“It takes around 10 steps for a company to process an invoice costing in the region of €2 per invoice,” he says.

Founded by Adrian Kelehan, InShip’s business model removes the hassle by grabbing a business’s incoming invoices from their supplier’s email, handle the invoice and then upload to their accounts package.

The company removes the need to, open post, print invoices, sort, send for approval, match to purchase orders, code, input into accounts packages, store or rec-

oncile. As all these tasks are completed online by InShip.

“This eliminates the need for paper when processing invoices and reduces the human error that may cause the business to be under or overpaid by suppliers.

“We already have a number of businesses on the system from the southside and northside of Dublin and we are attracting new business each week from all over Ireland,” Phil says.

“The business is growing and we have already created three jobs and plan on creating more in the coming year.”

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HOUSEHUNTING P16

ASDFSDAF STYLE P27 P20

LEARNINGCURVE Whether you’re a first-time student or want to boost your existing qualifications, there’s a lot to learn about college life – luckily, The Gazette has everything you need to know

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STUDY ABROAD P14

Supporting the ITB Learn + Work programme: Bernard Hickey, Damovo; Mary Meaney, ITB and Patrick Cotter, Fleet Connect

An innovative new programme at ITB

GOOD NEWS!

No matter what your Leaving results were, you have plenty of options ahead PAGES 18-19

IN RESPONSE to demands from companies in the ICT sector, and increasing interest in technology programmes amongst school leavers and mature students, the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown’s (ITB) Department of Informatics is launching a new programme in networking technologies.

Its Higher Certificate in Science in Computing is a new and innovative third-level programme that has been designed with the industry in mind, combining in-company placement with up-to-date technical skills that are currently very much in demand.

The programme takes place over a two year period, with more than 50% of students’ time being spent applying their knowledge whilst learning new applied skills in the workplace through a work placement.

Motivated Dr Mary Meaney, ITB president, said: “The Learn and Work programme will create a practical path for students to acquire in-demand skills whilst offering companies access to a motivated, productive new talent pool.”

Praising the programme, Bernard Hickey, operations and service delivery manager at Damovo Ireland said: “Damovo has experienced an increase in business over the last few years which has created some challenges in resourcing customer contract commitments and new projects.

“Damovo has identified the Learn and Work programme from ITB as a perfect fit to enable us to develop the right competence and skills through this accredited programme.”

To find out more about the programme, see www. itb.ie/learnandwork, or contact Justin Purcell at 01 8851372. Interested applicants are welcome to an open evening on Tuesday, September 6, from 5 – 7pm to find out more.

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LEARNINGCURVE

ADVICE: STUDYING AWAY FROM HOME IS REWARDING FOR MANY

Why not study abroad?  IAN BEGLEY

STUDENTS choose to study abroad for a number of reasons, such as entry requirements may be easier, they may have access to courses that are not available in Ireland, or they may simply want the experience of living outside the country.

It is important to know the differences between studying in Ireland and studying abroad.

You should find out about the application procedures, length of courses, fees and living expenses before you make a final decision on whether a course of study abroad is suitable for you.

If you are a third-level student in Ireland, your university or college may have information about opportunities for studying outside Ireland.

If you don’t have a specific course or institution in mind, there are several sources of information on overseas learning.

According to Citizensinformation.ie, many Irish third-level institutions offer their students the opportunity to travel through their course of study, often through student exchange programmes.

Such institutions establish initial contact with

institutions abroad and maintain an ongoing relationship with them.

Students move between the two institutions on study and work placements and are offered services such as student orientation, language training, and accommodation services.

Contact your college for information about any student exchange programmes they may offer.

Audrey Byrne, Exchange Co-Ordinator at the International Office at DCU, said there are a multitude of advantages for students taking part in Erasmus programmes.

She said: “We would have a lot of students

who select a programme which has a year abroad as part of their course. In all of our language programmes, it is compulsory that students spend their third year abroad to immerse themselves in the language they’re studying.

“We also encourage students who aren’t studying a language to still avail of a year abroad.”

For further information on studying outside Ireland, see citizensinformation.ie. You can also find detailed information on the range of Irish grants and funds for students in further and higher education at www.studentfinance.ie.

Lots of alternative courses are also available to pursue FOR school-leavers who may have their eye on a more alternative or specific course not offered by universities, City of Dublin Education Training Board (CDETB) and Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education Training Board (DDLETB) offer a vast choice of training alternatives.

Some of the colleges in the CDETB include the Liberties College, Crumlin College, Ballyfermot College, Rathmines College and 13 others. Ballyfermot College is currently running courses as diverse as animal rescue and millinery to multiplatform journalism, while Rathmines College offers courses in areas such as business, accounting and more.

Colleges offering further education courses within the DDLETB area include the College of Further Education in Dundrum, Greenhills College, Deansrath College in Clondalkin and six others. The College of Further Education in Dundrum offers courses from horticulture to nursing studies, while Greenhills College has courses in sports studies, engineering and more.

Just check with your desired college for a full list of courses, and if it meets your progression needs.

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LEARNINGCURVE SEARCH: SOARING DEMANDS ACROSS THE CITY

Cutting-edge training at a leading hair salon academy

Househunting is challenging for all

 IAN BEGLEY  EMMA NOLAN HAIRDRESSING is an option that many school leavers pursue each year in Dublin.

Hairdressing education facility, the Dylan Bradshaw Academy, is now accepting registration for the year commencing 2016/2017.

Taught by their award-

winning team of leading educators in the hairdressing industry, students will graduate with an internationally recognised City & Guilds Level II Diploma.

For both beginners and established hairdressers looking to expand their skills, the academy provides a full curriculum and hands-

on training with Ireland’s leading experts across an intensive 18-month period, focusing on practical skills and all the latest techniques to be at the sector’s cutting edge.

T he management team also offer CV and interviewing technique workshops in order to prepare students for life after learning.

AS FRESHERS’ Week draws near, odds are that you’ll have hundreds of questions running through your mind – such as where to live.

Some may choose to live at home, but for many others college means trying to find accommodation for the first time.

With the shortage of accommodation in Dublin and other urban areas, the Union of Students in Ireland recently set up a site encouraging people with spare bedrooms to rent to students.

This service is deemed very necessary as the student population in Dublin faces a serious shortage of accommodation, with CAO offers and the subsequent start of the academic year just a few short weeks away.

Speaking ahead of the first information drive in Dublin city centre, USI president Laura Harmon said: “This is an access-

to-education issue. The cost of accommodation in and around Dublin has risen enormously, pricing many students out of the accommodation market.

“Many buy-to-renters have repurposed accommodation they had previously made available to students for wealthier renters.

“To compound this, the value of the student grant has fallen against inflation over a number of years. The end result will be students unhoused and dropping out.

“USI is calling for the Government to form a task force on student accommodation – there needs to be a specific strategy on this serious and growing problem,” she said.

As a short-term measure to support the initiative, the USI has put together a simple website, allowing homeowners to list their spare rooms and their conditions, with the objective of providing

On yer (Dublin) Bike ... be prepared to look a little further afield, and to avail of all transport options, when looking for a place to live while at college

students with contacts for those willing to help.

The system also allows for landlords and agents to place their available accommodation online at www.homes.usi.ie – and it’s free to use.

The USI also mentions that there are many useful accommodation-hunting websites out there, including Daft.ie and Property. ie, which makes it easy to search through lots of accommodation listings on the internet quickly.

These sites also have maps that point out where the specific accommodation you are looking at is located.

Accommodation lists may also be available from your Students’ Union. It’s recommended that you contact a Students’ Union rep as it’s the best port of call when hunting for a place to live and if you experience problems during the year. For further student accommodation tips, see www.usi.ie.

Majority of young people are not pursuing their passions – Pitman SOME 84% of 16 to 24-year olds are not pursuing their passions as a career, according to statistics released by Pitman Training.

The training centre’s statistics show a huge mismatch in career dreams and career choices, with many risking missing their true calling after leaving school.

Research reveals that 84% of 16-24 year olds don’t know how to turn their passions into a career, and 49% feel a lack of qualifications halts them exploring aspirational career opportunities, suggesting that the next generation of employees are at risk of career

dissatisfaction when entering the job market.

Research also revealed that young people are also against more ‘traditional’ jobs such as admin or accounts.

An advice centre is now available at Pitman-training.ie to help school leavers discover how personality and passions can be channelled into careers.

It also shares tips from PAs who are ex-Pitman students, who now work for the BBC and ITV. They came together to challenge the myth that being a PA is old-fashioned and “boring”.

Roy Lalor, at Pitman Training Swords, said: “We’re really excited about meeting school leavers not going to college to help them structure their next steps.

“At school age, young people can fall into jobs or further training that is a ‘filler’ [job], so they risk not achieving their true potential.

“Many of our training courses can open doors to help people work in the industries they really want, if they are focused on progression. PA, web design and accountancy courses in particular can open up a huge variety of doors into interesting careers.”

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LEARNINGCURVE GUIDANCE: WHETHER YOU WANT TO TRY AGAIN

STUDYNOTES

Continue your learning in the heart of old Dundrum THERE are very good reasons for students to consider undertaking a course in Dundrum College of Further Education.

The FE route provides a real alternative to Higher Education. While traditionally FE (PLC) colleges have been considered the “Plan B” for many students, there is a growing realisation that this option delivers better outcomes for those wishing to use it as a stepping stone to both higher education or direct entry to the labour market.

Dundrum CFE offers a wide variety of full-time courses leading to QQI-validated awards at Levels 5 and 6, and suitable for school leavers to mature students.

Courses are available in the areas of Business, Computing, Nursing and Healthcare, Early Childhood

Care and Education, Social Studies, Art Crafts & Design, and Horticulture.

This year, the college has added some exciting new courses to their prospectus, and has revamped existing programmes to reflect the latest developments in technology and the workplace.

The College is hosting an open day and an art and crafts exhibition of graduates’ work on Wednesday, August 31 at its Main Street campus (next to the AIB bank).

This will provide an opportunity for those considering upskilling or reskilling to talk to teachers about course options and see the IT facilities available. All are welcome.

Applications can be made online at www.cfedundrum.com. All courses commence during September.

Don’t panic as you Leaving Cert – many

SO YOU have received your Leaving Certificate results – congratulations!

Hopefully, you are happy with your achievements and they reflect the hard work you have put in over the last two years.

The next important date in your calendar – if you have applied for higher education courses through the CAO – is Monday, August 22.

This is when the points for this year’s courses are published and college offers are issued from the CAO (available from 6am); see cao.ie for further information.

 EDEL MCMANUS Guidance counsellor, Lucan Community College

It goes without saying that you should have fully researched your course before you accept a place.

There is no shortage of information in this regard on college websites, qualifax and careersportal.

Please ensure you follow the instructions carefully when accepting your

offer and make sure you pay close attention to acceptance deadlines.

For lots of reasons, not all students will be happy with their results. Perhaps you did not reach your potential, or you are disappointed that your results do not reflect your efforts. This can be an emotional and stressful time.

It is crucial to remember that your Leaving Certificate results do not define you, nor measure your worth as a person.

If you have determination, passion and a willingness to work hard, you

can accomplish whatever your goal may be.

Here are a few options to consider if you have not received the results you were hoping for ...

Review/Re-correction of your exam script.

You may wish to consider viewing your corrected exam script. This will allow you to view the marks awarded to you, and if you feel there has been an error in the marks awarded, you have the option to have your paper re-corrected.

It is free to view a script, although there is a fee for having it remarked.

18 August 2016 GAZETTE 19

GAZETTE

LEARNINGCURVE

OR MOVE ON, FOCUS ON TAKING POSITIVE STEPS STUDYNOTES Payroll tasks add up to a satisfying job

face life after your options lie ahead When you receive your results from your school, the details on how to avail of this will be included.

Pay close attention to closing dates.

Higher Level Maths exam – second chance exam. If you failed HL Maths and it is a requirement for your course, some institutions offer an alternative exam in the days after the results.

If you pass this, you could still qualify for your course. Contact the admissions office of the institution immediately or check online.

Consider repeating the Leaving Certificate.

Search for repeat Leaving Cert courses in your area,

and apply. You will soon be called for interview.

This may be the best option if you feel you could improve your results with another attempt.

Consider a course in a College of Further Education. Places have already been awarded to students who applied earlier in the year, but there will be some vacant places available.

Apply online; use websites like Qualifax and CareersPortal to help you decide on a course you would be interested in.

Most such courses have an excellent progression route linked in, meaning that the Level 5 award

may allow you to progress onto Level 6/7/8 courses in Higher Education.

Vacant place courses available on CAO. If a Higher Education Institution has added a new course after the change of mind closing date or places remain unfilled after CAO offers have been made, there may be an opportunity to apply for a course at this stage.

See the CAO website for information.

Consider an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships can be an excellent way of working towards a qualification that is vocationally-based whilst earning a wage. See Careersportal. ie for specific apprentice-

ship information; Solas.ie is also helpful.

Go straight to employment. Getting into the workplace straight away can be an appropriate option for some students.

This allows you to begin earning money and can allow you to pursue training opportunities within the workplace if they are available.

Mature Entry. Some students take this route and decide to pursue third-level education later in life. Mature students are considered from 23 years of age onwards. Life experience is given consideration at this point.

Life experience Very few people can say at age 17/18 that they know what career they would like to be working at in later life.

As such, you do not need to know exactly what you want to do just yet. Do something in an area that interests you and for which you have an aptitude.

Life experience will guide your journey. Continuing your education will undoubtedly allow you more f lexibility, opportunity and choice as well as increasing your earning potential.

A national helpline is run by The National Parents’ Council in association with The Irish Independent, Eir and supported by the Department of Education and Skills.

The Institute of Guidance Counsellors provide qualified guidance counsellors to give advice and support to students and their parents.

The helpline phone number is 1800 265 165, and you can email helpline@npcpp.ie.

PAYROLL is a vital function in every company, yet the vast majority of payroll personnel have no formal payroll qualifications.

Dealing with ever changing revenue, social welfare and employment law legislation, working to strict deadlines, being proficient in the use of IT and dealing with a myriad of queries from employees and management alike, means that the role of payroll personnel is a highly demanding one, whether operating as a one-person payroll department, or as a member of a pay-

roll team in a large multinational.

If you would like to pursue a career in payroll or would like to enhance your career prospects, the Irish Payroll Association (IPASS) is Ireland’s leading provider of payroll and VAT training and certification. Their qualifications are accredited by QQI (Quality Qualifications Ireland) at Level 6.

Classes are held nationwide and by distance/online learning.

For further information, contact IPASS at 01 408 9100, or see www. ipass.ie.

20 GAZETTE 18 August 2016

GAZETTE

LEARNINGCURVE Lessons in refreshing style, thanks to ilac Centre

HEADING back to college shortly or looking forward to your very first day?

W h i c h e ve r i t is, you will want to look your best walking through the doors of your new home for the next year or more.

So, with this in mind, the Ilac Centre asked Xpose stylist Rob Condon to pick out some really cool and casual looks to help you feel even more proud and confident.

Yo u c a n p i c k u p some really great pieces that won’t break the bank from stores such as Catch, Unique M e n s we a r, J a c k & Jones, Angel, Emotion, TKMaxx, River Island, H&M, Quiz and Diesel.

And, for cosy boots and footwear, check out Cans fabulous new store,

Korkys, Emotion Shoes, Debenhams and Dunnes Stores, who all have their fabulous aiutumn/winter ranges arriving in daily.

Not forgetting the essentials like stationery, bags, phones, calculators, laptops and battery packs – for these, the Ilac has a number of stores for you to choose from.

Check out FoneFixer, The PC Clinics, Gadget Geek, Meteor, Virgin Media, Bag City, Argos and Dealz With all the fun and hard work going on, don’t forget to keep healthy.

Stock up on multivitamins and supplements at Boots, Holland & Barrett and SO Nutrition.

If you, or someone you know, is starting college this year, they will be interested to read the Ilac Centre’s 12 Tips for Starting College – see ilac.ie/news – but even more than that, they might just fancy winning €500 worth of Autumn/Winter style in the Ilac Centre.

All they have to do is post a selfie of their favourite look on Instagram, tagged #CollegeStyle, and also tag @Ilac_Centre anytime between now and Friday, August 26.

Entrants must be over 18 to enter but can enter as often as they like.

See ilac.ie/terms for full terms and conditions.

The ilac Centre’s retailers offer superb style for everyone heading on to college and further education

DUN LAOGHAIRE: COURSES FOR ALL EDUCATIONAL INTERESTS ON OFFER AT DFEI

All abuzz at a busy hub of learning

YOU may not immediately notice the Dun Laoghaire Further Education Institute building on Cumberland Street in Dun Laoghaire, situated in the quiet end of the town.

However, there is a completely different buzz when you pass through the DFEi’s automatic doors – the buzz students feel between classes or at break time when the stairs and corridors are filled

with learners of all ages, and from all diverse backgrounds.

They might be heading for the library to type up an assignment, heading to the sound studio to do a recording, the radio studio to do an interview or to the TV and film studio for a casting call.

Why not tune into 107.8fm and listen to DFEi’s very own radio station, The Wave? You will find an archive of accom-

plished documentaries, thanks to the journalism students.

Other learners of a more scientific bent might be bracing themselves for a dissection in the lab, or for testing their newly acquired veterinary assistance or grooming skills on real animals.

Meanwhile, more corporate-minded business learners will be grappling with computerised payroll, bookkeeping,

spreadsheets and databases courses, while office administration learners will be acquiring the languages of medicine and the law.

In DFEi, you are as likely to see learners carrying T-squares and tool kits as guitars and cameras.

That’s because courses such as Furniture Making and Restoration, and Musical Instrument Making and Repair

demand the tools of the trade.

These are just some of the many diverse courses on offer at the DFEi building, and so if, for whatever reason, you do not get enough points for your chosen third level course, consider spending a year in DFEi. DFEi courses are open to learners from all walks of life with all types of prior experience who for whatever reason are seeking the knowledge,

skills and competencies to enhance their employment or educational progression opportunities.

DFEi’s quality-assured courses are designed to meet current industry standards, while also ensuring students’ individual needs are met.For further information on all DFEi courses, see http://dfei. ie/, telephone 01 280 9676, or email info@dfei.ie.

18 August 2016 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

22 GAZETTE 18 August 2016

DUBLINLIFE

GAMING

LITTLE BITS OF CODE MADE QUINTILLIONS OF GAME WORLDS IT’S difficult to convey in print the exhilarating visual impact at the heart of No Man’s Sky – gamers can walk about on any planet, look up at a moon in the sky, and then hop in their spaceship, fly straight to that moon, land, hop out and explore, before choosing to head off to another planet or star system – all without any loading screen.

Repeat to infinity, and beyond ...

We’ve never seen such a visually arresting spectacle in games before – at least, never at this truly vast scale – where there is an entire universe to explore, with one vast world following after another.

How is this universe-

sized game possible?

It’s all thanks to maths.

Yes, maths! While there are several in-game assets that are manmade and re-used – for example, space stations, planetary shelters, chairs – the game otherwise uses complex algorithms to create the worlds.

All kinds of variables are used to create everything you see – and then, once you leave, the game “throws away” the planet/system you just left, as its complex algorithms will recreate it exactly for you if you ever return – or for any other intrepid explorer who may stumble across it.

From such little bits of code working together, an entire universe thus springs into existence.

Here’s another random planet to land on, explore, mine for resources, and maybe even name everything for posterity – although if you do, there’s no guarantee that millions of other players will ever even stop at this system, let alone see Planet Fuzzybottom IV... Screengrabs: Shane Dillon

18,446,744,073,709,551,616 *

REASONS TO PLAY NO MAN’S SKY  SHANE DILLON

Tech Editor

* BELIEVE it or not, that’s how many worlds that No Man’s Sky (PS4, PC, Cert 7+) offers gamers to explore.

A n d w h e n I s ay “worlds”, I mean worlds – the game creates entire moons and planets (see panel, left) in little star systems, each of which are all part of a single, shared online universe containing 18,446,74– yes, well,

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

‘Space is big. You just won’t believe how vastly, hugely, mind-bogglingly big it is. I mean, you may think it’s a long way down the road to the chemist’s, but that’s just peanuts to space.’

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

Douglas Adams, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy

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

you know the rest!

Perhaps best described as a blend of Minecraft and Star Trek, players come to beside a crashed spaceship on their own random planet on the far-

flung edge of a universe, with an overall aim of reaching the far, far away centre.

They do so by exploring, mining and trading resources, gradually

upgrading their spaceship (or buying a new one), suit, and mining tool/ weapon, moving a few stars closer to the centre, and becoming ever more capable explorers, traders

or fighters – and often, a mix of all three.

The oddball game has made a moon-sized impact on the games industry, with enormous interest scrutinising its technology and emergent gameplay, flaws and all.

Although a very divisive title – many dismiss its “boring” exploration and meandering across the stars, which is precisely what appeals to many others – No Man’s Sky is out of this world indeed ...

Much of the game is spent using inventory and upgrade screens, which are somewhat unwieldy to use. Future

Postcards from the edge ... With some fantastically pretty planets to discover

No Man’s Sky updates could iron out this clunky wrinkle.

(as well as plenty of dull ones), there’s always somewhere new to find and explore

18 August 2016 GAZETTE 23

fast

GALWAY: A TREASURE TROVE FOR NATURE NUTS

Revealing enchanting Take advantage of some September sun and hidden worlds

TRAVEL NEWS WITH September almost on our doorstep, many of us are feeling a little bit deflated. The summer is almost gone, and the sun is becoming a less frequent sight with each passing day.

But don’t pout because there are plenty of reasons why you should take a sun holiday during the month of September.

1. Stock up on prewinter Vitamin D Vitamin D plays an important role in the absorption of nutrients; it helps to prevent osteoporosis and arthritis; and it helps regulate things like blood pressure, stress, tension, as well as various body aches.

Well guess what?

The sun is one of the best sources of Vitamin D. With the Irish sun going missing for most of the summer and going into hibernation for the winter, a September holiday really is an investment in your health…right?

2. ‘Us’ time As much as we all love our kids, let’s face it; summer is hard! Minding and entertaining the kids is a 24/7 job dur-

ing the summer. With schools reopening in a few weeks’ time, why not grab the opportunity to call in the favour of a grandparent and head away to the sun with your other half?

After all, every couple deserves time to themselves!

3. Special Offers on September Sun Holidays Peak season for sun holidays is mid-summer.

As we approach September, sun holidays get cheaper.

Not only that, your favourite shops will have huge sales on all their holiday ranges. So not only can you enjoy the sun on a budget… you can also enjoy the sun on a budget and in style!

Fancy going on a sun holiday in September?

Of course you do!

Why not check out Abbey Travel’s sun holiday offers.

Think Costa Dorada for €299. Costa del Sol for €239. Algarve for €199. Malta for €309.

All prices are per person based on four sharing and include flights and seven nights, 3-star accommodation.

 IAN BEGLEY

THE Freshwater Detect i ve , P r o f e s s o r K e n Whelan, has combined forces with Delphi Resort, County Galway to craft a unique weekend experience at the lovely Aasleagh Lodge in Leenane.

Delphi Resort and Ken W helan have designed an in-depth (pun intended) and intriguing weekend at Aasleagh Lodge, an offpiste adventure exploring the Ice Roads, the hidden river valleys gouged out by glaciers millennia ago.

Detecting the presence of furtive predators such as otters and mink, learning how other predators such as herons, cormorants and seals interact with 10,000-year old populations of silvery sea trout and the majestic wild Atlantic salmon, on this unique nature trail you’ll hopefully come face-to-face with some of the most fascinating creatures to be found in abundance around the Connemara region’s waterways.

Ken will teach you how to identif y the

Children can enjoy identifying insects and other invertebrates in rivers

insects and other invertebrates in the rivers and streams you visit and you’ll also learn how to identif y the more common birds and animals, and how to read a river corridor, a river channel or a lakeshore.

Professor Whelan previously led a team of scientists who worked throughout the River Erriff catchment area for almost a decade so he knows this area like the back of his hand, and will guide budding Freshwater Detectives on a unique freshwater

trek from the cosy base in Aasleagh Lodge to some of the more remote rivers and hill loughs of the west of Ireland.

He will reveal an enchanting and fascinating world, largely hidden from view to the casual visitor with field trips accompanied by lively talks, slides and video clips, in a conversational, fun and relaxed weekend.

Designed for nature nuts and freshwater fans, or anybody who wants to explore this unique aquatic world, Aasleagh Lodge is

hosting three weekend Freshwater Detective courses – one each in August, October and November.

The first course runs from August 26 to 29, the second from October 7 to 9, and the third from November 18 to 20. Each Freshwater D e t e c t i ve we e ke n d course is limited exclusively to small groups of guests, and costs €349 per person.

T his includes two nights B&B at Aasleagh Lodge, two lunches and one dinner plus all course fees.

GAZETTE

TRAVEL

Guinness Storehouse still top for visitors THE Guinness Storehouse is once again the top choice for visitors coming to Ireland on holiday.

In Failte Ireland’s annual list of Ireland’s top visitor attractions it stated that last year, the Guinness Storehouse welcomed almost 1.5 million visitors - an increase of almost 230,000 (18%) over the previous year’s performance.

Amongst the nation’s fee-paying attractions, the Storehouse was followed closely by the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience and Dublin Zoo which both registered significant increases in paying visitors during 2015.

Amongst Ireland’s “free to enter” attractions, the National Gallery of Ireland once again continues to lead the way with numbers up 21% to over 718,000.

Also performing well were the National Botanic Gardens, National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology on Kildare Street and Farmleigh all making the top five.

The Irish Museum of Modern Art climbed the rankings to third place recording impressive growth of 58% which can be attributed to a more extensive programme overall in 2015.

GAZETTE

24 LUCAN GAZETTE 18 August 2016

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA

ReelReviews

JASON BOURNE Jason Bourne (Cert 12A, 123 mins) is the fifth movie in the Bourne franchise and marks the return of Paul Greengrass and Matt Damon to the series.

When we reconnect with Bourne, he’s keeping a low profile, making a living as a fighter for hire in some East European outpost.

But when his old CIA colleague and fellow rogue agent Nicky Parsons (Julia Stiles) tracks him down with information about his father’s death, Bourne heads to Athens to meet with her at a street riot.

That, unfortunately, puts him back on the radar of the CIA, whose top boss Robert Dewey (Tommy Lee Jones) seems determined to take him out.

A little boy has been living in the woods for years, but he wasn’t alone

SUICIDE SQUAD

DISNEY’S PETE’S DRAGON: THIS SOULFUL FAIRY TALE IS MAGICAL STUFF

One of the most highly anticipated films of the year, Suicide Squad (Cert 15, 123 mins) is jam-packed with action, star power and mayhem. To counter threats too dangerous to risk a hero’s life, the US government creates the ‘Suicide Squad’: a black ops team of supervillains whose lives are completely expendable.

They’re the worst of the worst: master assassin Deadshot. The Joker’s girlfriend Harley Quinn.

Human crocodile Killer Croc. In exchange for a better prison deal, they’re sent on an insanely risky mission that will probably get them killed. performances, that’s okay.

A soaring breath of fresh air MUCH like its titular monster, Disney’s Pete’s Dragon is a rare, mythical beast – a contemporary, live action kid’s movie that doesn’t pander to its target audience and refuses to tell jokes just for the parents.

While it suffers from occasional pacing issues, this dreamy, soulful fairy tale should delight audiences young and old.

Disney have hit upon a winning formula in recent years, turning out big budget remakes of reliable classics.

While that trend continues here, 1977’s Pete’s Dragon seems an unlikely source – the original received mixed reviews and only moderate commercial success.

This update, helmed by indie favourite David

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

Lower y, doesn’t rely heavily on its source material and consequently, feels fresher than the standard Disney remake.

Pete’s Dragon manages to tell a relatively simple, heart-warming tale without stumbling into the all-too-easily trod territor y of the sickeningly sweet.

Even so, its stor y begins on a sorrowful note: Five-year-old Pete (Oakes Fegley) survives a car crash while holidaying with his parents.

Wandering into the woodlands of the Pacif-

ic Northwest, he is rescued by an enormous, furry, green Dragon, naming him Elliot after a character in his favorite book.

Six years later, a ferallooking Pete has his first interaction with society by way of a clumsy encounter with a young girl, Natalie (Oona Laurence), her father, Jack ( We s Bentley), and his fiancee,

Grace (Bryce Dallas Howard).

Taking in Pete while they investigate his ori-

gin, the group develops a special bond.

Meanwhile, after a star tling br ush with Elliot, Jack’s brother Gavin (Karl Urban) attempts to hunt down the legendary dragon.

Lowery tells Pete’s story with a healthy dose of Americana – Robert Redford, playing Grace’s father, kicks off the tale with a wonderful bit of satisfying, gravelly-voiced exposition.

A gentle folk score accompanies visually sumptuous shots of endless, Northwestern woodland, and

scenes of life in small town America are captured with quiet transitions and a relaxed, wandering camera.

Lowery has cited film McCabe & Mrs Miller as an influence on his filmmaking and Robert Altman’s presence is certainly felt here – strange as that may be for a contemporary kid’s film.

P e t e ’s D r a g o n i s entirely without the wild hyperactivity that dominates the market these days and jokes are few and far between.

Drifting dreamily from scene to scene, Pete’s Dragon ambles along at a leisurely pace, perhaps even a little slow at times – though only in comparison to its contemporaries.

Consequently, it could be difficult to have a little one sit through it.

Indeed, the performances are relatively muted, the dialogue often long and wordy,

and at times it suffers from a notable lack of dragon.

However, when it picks up in the third a c t , P e t e ’s D r a g o n fires along – a highspeed car chase makes for an exciting finale, and when Elliot finale decides to come out of hiding and demonstrate his distinctly draconic talents, younger kids should be jumping in their seats.

Deviated as it is from the contemporary mainstream, Pete’s Dragon is a film experience outof-time: a classic kind of children’s movie and a breath of fresh air. While it might take a little extra concentration for the youngest audiences, Pete’s Dragon will warm the hearts of children and parents alike.

Verdict: 8/10

18 August 2016 LUCAN GAZETTE 25

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26 LUCAN GAZETTE 18 August 2016

LUCANCLASSIFIEDS DENTAL SERVICES

RECRUITMENT

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DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPER HAVE OVER 280,000* READERS EACH WEEK *Publishers Statement

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 01 60 10 240 PAINTING

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18 August 2016 LUCAN GAZETTE 27

LUCANCLASSIFIEDS

RECRUITMENT Are you looking for a career change?

Dublin Gazette Newspapers are looking for bright enthusiastic people to work on our Dublin Gazette.

We offer full training.

Relaxed working environment.

Hours 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

Competitive salary.

Excellent commissions based on achievable targets.

Also if you are currently working in a sales environment and would like to break into the newspaper industry we would like to hear from you.

To apply: send CV in first instance to: David Kelly dkelly@dublingazette.com or call Mob: 085 8242626.

GAZETTE

28 LUCAN GAZETTE 18 August 2016

SPORT Magical Murphy an Irish icon

FastSport

OLYMPICS: ANNALISE MURPHY SAILS HER WAY TO SILVER FOR IRELAND

DUNDRUM WIN GLOHEALTH:

DUNDRUM/ SOUTH DUBLIN won the Women’s National Athletics League in Tullamore earlier this month, coming through the finale after earlier team victories in Santry and Belfast propelled them to the season’s heights.

The team relied on a number of impressive dual-event athletes picking up points in a hard-fought finale, with Grace O’Rourke’s unusual double in the 800 metres and the high jump complemented

by Fiona Clinton’s first and third places in the 3,000 metres and 1,500 metres respectively.

Grainne Moggan followed her long jump effort by chipping in for the 4x400m relay, with Rachel Dunne also competing fresh from the single lap hurdles.

Sprinters Kate Doherty, Mollie O’Reilly and Katie Berney also scored highly as Dundrum South Dublin took the title ahead of St Abban’s in second.

 JONNY STAPLETON sport@dublingazette.com

ANNALISE MURPHY put to bed the ghosts of Weymouth to win Ireland’s second medal of the Rio Olympics on Tuesday night, with the radial sailor from Dun Laoghaire National Yacht Club com ing through a tense medal race to pick up a longoverdue silver.

T he 2012 London Oly mpics had hung over Murphy ahead of the medal race in particular. She surprised many then to win the first four races of those Games, only to fall victim to nerves over the last two days The finale - which sees the field narrowed

to the top dozen competitors and holds a greater weighting than the dozen races that proceed it - had been Mur phy’s undoing when she raced in the Weymouth-based event at the London Olympics. That time around, she slipped from a narrow second place to a wrenching fourth. With any position from the gold medal to fifth a possibility going into the finale this time around, Murphy held her nerve.

Wo r k i n g o n h e r weaknesses over the last four years had become a big part of Murphy’s game and it’s easy to see why when, at six foot one, she stands seven inches above most of

her competitors. Speaking to GazetteSport in Rio, she found it hard to contain her delight.

“I realised that it was going to be gold or silver when I reached the second top mark because I was a good bit ahead of Anne-Marie [Rindom, from Denmark, who eventually took bronze] and Marit [ B o u w m e e s t e r, t h e eventual gold medallist from Holland],” Murphy said after the finale, “so I think I was in gold for a good while but lost a few [places] on that last downwind. Once I crossed the line I knew I was in silver and I was absolutely delighted.”

“It feels amazing,” she continued. “This time four years ago I

Annalise Murphy posing during a pre-Rio photo shoot.

was just devastated, I had just finished fourth and to come back and get the silver medal, it’s just an incredible feeling. I said I was going to do this but for the last few years I didn’t think I was going to be able to, so it’s incredible.”

Murphy celebrated by throwing herself into the Guanabara Bay, with much of her family looking on from the beach.

“I felt like I drank three litres of water as I jumped in, ‘cause I

was screaming,” she e x p l a i n e d . “ I we n t out today knowing I couldn’t treat it any d i f f e r e n t t h a n a ny other race I’ve done this week, so I was just going to attack it and not being afraid of losing ‘cause that’s what happened four years ago, I was afraid of losing instead of trying to win.”

“I started this year and I kinda thought that my best was past me. To be able to come back when it actu-

ally mattered and get a result in a really difficult week of racing, I’m just so happy.”

With the Laser Radial World Championship having taken place in Dun Laoghaire, Murphy is already looking to the future after clocking Ireland’s first Olympic sailing medal since the Moscow Olympics 36 years ago. “I hope I can inspire a whole new generation of sailors to get to the Olympics and achieve something,” she concluded.

Rebel’s yell loudest as they end Trojan’s win streak  sport@dublingazette.com

Rebels players plead with referee

DUBLIN REBELS upset hot favourites Belfast Trojans to take home the Shamrock Bowl at the Tallaght Stadium last week, ending a run of four successive titles for the Northern side with a spectacular final-seconds snatch and grab.

Traditionally amongst the country’s top American football outfits, the Rebels have struggled against their rivals in recent years, and in a low-scoring season finale, needed every ounce of nous to edge through a low

scoring encounter.

A fumble by the Trojans close to their own end zone presented the Rebels with the only notable chance of a cagey first quarter, one which enabled quarterback Andrew Dennehy to find receiver Cathal Keane in a crowded end zone to give the Rebels a six point lead, with an attempt at the two point conversion foiled.

The score remained that way until early in the third quarter, when Jonah Siri and Neil Montgomery combined to charge downfield and make up the ground that the Trojans have

consistently racked up all season. It was Montgomery who barged over from inches out, with Rick Duffield adding the extra point to hand the favourites a narrow 7-6 lead.

The absence of a solid kicker for the Rebels appears an obvious weakness, with a number of scoring opportunities passed up for the home side over the course of the contest, chances offering points that could have negated the day’s late drama.

There are few finer ways to win an underdog title than in the dying seconds, however, and

the Rebels served up the critical score right as the clock ticked away.

Ciaran Fitzpatrick was the man for the moment, as he ran in a twenty yard completion off a pass from Dennehy to turn the game on its head with only seconds left to play.

The Trojans tried their best to force some serious yards in the dying second of the game, but the timely Rebels score marked the end of a dominant era: the Trojans rule of American football in Ireland ends at a four year streak.

18 August 2016 LUCAN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

Croquet on up thanks to world class Irish

Danny Johnston believes there is room for the game to grow in Ireland as they battle to beat the pre-conceptions, he spoke to James Hendicott about teaching others the game he loves TUCKED BELOW the Wimbledon-lite grass courts of the Carrickmines lawn tennis club and its opulent clubhouse are four smooth-as-velvet croquet pitches, a small scoring hut and the very heart of an unheralded game in which Ireland is truly world class.

Croquet might not be one of the world’s more celebrated sports, but in the past the Irish championships have attracted the very best, including a visit from Australian world number one Robert Fletcher and a host of other visiting stars.

This year’s event is a little more low key while Croquet Ireland - under the leadership of bubbly president Joe McGowan - are working on developing more options for future matches. The loss of a couple of key national-level players and pro-

motional difficulties have seen a recent ebb in the sport, one they’re fighting hard to turn around.

In some ways the ebb is strange; whilst making for a slow-paced spectator sport [a particularly close association match could easily run to three hours], Ireland’s captain Danny Johnston - a Trinity student who’s been playing virtually all his life - sits alongside Simon Williams, Evan Newell and Jane Morrison in being genuinely globally competitive.

The sport is unusual in that it allows men and women to compete against each other directly, with no notable advantage to be gained by being physically stronger.

There’s also a clever, tactical system that allows relative newcomers to compete competitively with players like John-

Danny Johnston and his doubles partner Niamh Walsh.

ston and Williams.

What stands out about Irish croquet is how accessible even the top level players are during competition. Ireland captain Johnston takes time between shots to coach curious visitors on the rules of the game, and the strategy involved, even pausing between shots to explain why he played them.

“What I don’t like is the clique around the sport - things like the Pimms adverts,” Johnston says. “If you had to compare it to another sport, it’s a lot like snooker. There’s a lot of positional play, and once the best players get ‘in’, you might not get another shot. As you can see,” he adds, pointing around the Carrickmines venue, “it’s really something for any age group, and it’s really quite a cheap sport

to get involved in, too.”

McGowan is more focused on the history, as well as the potential for development. He sketches out the broad historical connections of the sport, which take in the matchplay of Billy the Kid, as well as a number of historical accounts suggesting that croquet’s origins may well be Irish.

ment of facilities as far afield as Westport and in various parts of Wicklow.

McGowan’s also keen to emphasize the family-like atmosphere of the sport, including the tendency of clubs to put up visiting international stars around match days. It’s a homegrown solution for a sport that receives just €5,000 in annual

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‘What I don’t like is the clique around the sport - things like the Pimms adverts’ - Danny Johnston

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His recent additions to the sport focus heavily on persuading venues to add croquet lawns and bringing the game to the public, with efforts including a historical, costumed event in Strokestown Park and the develop-

government backing, and spends that almost exclusively on funding the competition-essential travel of its younger and more serious players.

The Irish nationals themselves - which took place over a week in early August - saw Ireland’s highest-ranked played Simon Williams take both the singles and doubles titles.

Johnston and Newell will front the Irish team when they return to action in the McWeeney trophy on August 20th and 21st, with the annual match against England, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man taking place in Carrickmines .

Croquet Ireland are always keen to hear from those interested in the sport, with contact details available via their website.

GAZETTE

30 LUCAN GAZETTE 18 August 2016

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: CLUB TO PUT LEAGUE DISAPPOINTMENT BEHIND THEM

Murray takes double victory to extend lead NIALL Murray extended his lead in the BRSCC British National Formula Ford 1600 Championship to 98 points with an impressive double in Anglesey.

Murray started in second position after fellow Irishman Kevin O’Hara pipped him to pole position by just two hundredths of a second.

The Dublin man was not to be denied the lead for long, however, when he went in front after his rival from Kildare ran wide at the first corner.

Victory in the first race meant he started race two from pole position but just like O’Hara in the first race, he ran wide and allowed Jack Byrne to overtake. Murray kept close to the leader and took the lead once more as he exited Church corner – setting the fastest lap in a fivesecond victory.

Delighted with the win Murray said “It’s been another fantastic weekend at Anglesey in the BRSCC FF1600 Championship getting two comfortable wins and both with the fastest lap to extend my lead of the championship to provisionally 98 points.

“It’s also been another amazing job by Bernard and Sam Dolan to give me the best car out there.”

Next up for Murray is a trip to Donington Park on August 27/28.

Maher helps young Dubs retain Forde cup ST PAT’S Palmerstown man Darren Maher was part of the Dublin Under-17 football side who retained the Matty Forde Invitational intercounty trophy by defeating Tyrone in last Saturday’s final in Wexford.

First half goals from James Doran, Karl Bissett, Daniel Brennan and Harry

Kenny had the Dubs 4-3 to 1-0 to the good at the break as they held on to secure victory 4-7 to 1-2.

Dublin had beaten Carlow convincingly in their semi-final by 5-13 to 0-4 with Harry Ladd netting twice and Darragh Conlon, Ryan Meaney and Eoghan Joyce all also raising green flags.

In the group section Tom Gray’s team enjoyed victories over Tyrone by 3-8 to 0-7 and Wexford by 2-6 to 0-2.

Collinstown players in action against Pike Rovers. The Clondalkin side are about to move to Major 1 Sunday in the LSL

No more tiers for Collinstown sport@dublingazette.com

IT took some time, but Collinstow n FC are finally excited about their Leinster Senior League debut this weekend.

The Clondalkin side made the move across the Dublin league divide trading the AUL for the LSL amidst great excitement at the tail end of last season.

However, their spirits were dampened somewhat when the powers that be placed them in the Major 1 Sunday, effectively the sixth tier of the league.

Collinstown, who are

deemed one of the more progressive clubs in the country, were hoping to be placed at the very least in Major Sunday, which would mean they were just one promotion away from upgrading from a junior to an intermediate club.

Although he understands the LSL’s decision, Collinstow n manager Kevin Carroll admits all at the club were a bit disappointed to have been placed so far down the LSL ladder.

However, he is now keen to look at the positives and is adamant his side are excited and raring to go ahead of the new

DUBLIN’S BOWL DELIGHT Rebel’s yell loudest as they defeat the Trojans DUBLIN Rebels upset hot favourites Belfast Trojans to take home the Shamrock Bowl at the Tallaght Stadium last week, ending a run of four successive titles for the Northern side with a spectacular final-seconds snatch and grab.

Traditionally amongst the country’s top American football outfits, the Rebels have struggled against their rivals in recent years, and in a low-scoring season finale, needed every ounce of nous to edge through a low scoring encounter.

season.

“We had no right to go straight into Intermediate football and we understand the LSL’s point of view, they have to be fair to every club.

However, we thought as we were coming from the top junior league in the AUL, we would go into Major Sunday - the top junior league in the LSL. That made sense to us here at the club, but we have to accept we are in Major 1 and realise we are just two promotions away from intermediate football.

“I have to admit when we first found out we would be Major 1A we

were disappointed, but we sat down the players, the coaches and committee and we talked it out. We set our focus on playing football, winning games, trying to win trophies. We also get two bites at the FAI Junior Cup, which isn’t bad.

We have a three-year plan now and we are all focused on that. There is a little buzz about the place again and we can’t wait for the season to start. The lads just want to get out there and play football at this stage.”

Carroll, and indeed all at Collinstown, was always aware that there was going to be a jour-

ney to intermediate football and they made the decision to change leagues with the future in mind.

“We have a good core of young players and some great underage teams, particularly at Under-16, and we thought if we make the move now then by the time we are intermediate they will be coming through to play senior football. We know we have to work our way up the ladder, but this club wants to play in the best amateur league, with the best facilities and the highest standard of football.”

18 August 2016 LUCAN GAZETTE 31

GAZETTESPORT ALL OF YOUR LUCAN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

AUGUST 18-24, 2016

Annalise shows her medal

See full story on Page 28

Hartstown promotion joy Hartstown Huntstown FC have received a major boost by being promoted to intermediate football after St Francis Boys pull out  JONNY STAPLETON

sport@dublingazette.com

HARTSTOWN Huntstown FC have secured promotion without even kicking a ball.

The Blanch outfit were all set for Major Sunday football next season, but were promoted before the season has even started and are now officially an intermediate side.

Hartstown were informed of their upgrade at last week’s Leinster senior league meeting and have benefited from Clondalkin side and former FAI Senior Cup finalists St Francis’ withdrawal from the Senior 1A division and Templeogue’s subsequent promotion.

The club left the AUL and the end of the

2013/14 seasons in pursuit of Intermediate football and reached the grade in a surprise manner last week.

They now join Knocklyon, Skerries and Inchicore as the new faces in Senior Sunday 1B. After being placed in Major 1 after crossing the Dublin league divide, the side won promotion to the LSL’s junior top flight the season before last and a fourth place finish last season wasn’t seen as too disastrous, indeed it fit perfectly into their ‘three-year intermediate plan’.

“We left the AUL at the end of the 2013/14 season and set our sights on becoming an intermediate club. At that time, we set out a

three-year plan to get the club to LSL intermediate football and we have managed to do that in two years so we are obviously delighted and looking forward to the new season,” manager Darren McGrath told the Gazette.

As one of the promoted sides, and a side promoted almost by default at the last minute, Hartstown Hunstown will be one of the sides tipped for the drop.

There are those arguing they join a strong league and do so without a whole summer to prepare for intermediate football.

Manager McGrath, whose side were so close to automatic promotion last term, knows his side will face tough challenges week in week out, but is far from defeatist

and is targeting consolidation between this Sunday and early May. “We have a big challenge ahead, we know that, but we aim to consolidate our intermediate status and to continue to progress the club.”

Meanwhile a more established intermediate side from Blanch, Verona FC have been busy trying assembling a side they feel will help their top flight promotion push.

After signing one of the standout AUL Premier A midfielders in Liam Nelson Tiernan, as well as former St Mochta’s and Cherry Orchard maestro Stephen Deegan, they have now added former Ireland underage player Thomas Mulroney to their books.