Malahide

Malahide GAZET TE FREE

Eddi Reader brings her ‘Perfect’ voice back to Ireland SEE PAGE 21 February 7, 2013

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M A L A H I D E • P O R T M A R N O C K • K I N S E A LY • C L A R EMonth H A LXX, L INSIDE: Your essential guide to make this Valentine’s Day extra special P17

2012

CUTBACKS: Fianna Fail’s Darragh Butler criticises Garda station closures Page 2

Bursting with pride: Syl’s party to mark big year Football:

Sylvester’s late charge comes up just short Page 31

ST SYLVESTER’S GAA club winners proudly hold aloft the prizes which they won at the club’s annual awards banquet recently held at the Grand Hotel Malahide. The event was a great occasion for the club to recognise the huge efforts and dedication that made 2012 another very successful year for the Malahide club.

Picture: Una Williams

See Gallery on Page 6

Soccer:

Malahide make it to All-Ireland last 16 stage Page 30

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES......................6 DUBLIN LIFE...................11 OUT&ABOUT .................20 CLASSIFIEDS ................26 SPORT ...........................27

State’s anti-bullying action plan launched €500,000 set aside to implement government’s new strategy

 NATALIE BURKE

A NEW action plan introduced by the government could be set to help teachers, pupils and parents in Fingal tackle the scourge

of bullying.

A total of €500,000 has been ring fenced by the government to support the implementation of the new action plan this year.

According to Fine Gael

TD Alan Farrell, the plan will be welcomed by local schools.

“Bullying, whether it is online or in the school corridor, can have a very serious impact on children

and young people. This can have a lasting impact well into adulthood, and it is something that we should all be working together to address,” he said.

Full Story on Page 8

2 MALAHIDE Gazette 7 February 2013

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

policy Shatter ‘letting down’ communities

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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Swords Garda Station: “The current reforms are all about using police resources more effectively” – Minister Alan Shatter

Garda station closures ‘make no sense’ – Butler Following the controversial closure of 95 Garda stations last week, local Fianna Fail councillor Darragh Butler has said “it makes no sense” to remove Garda presence in towns and rural communities across Ireland at a time when the rate of burglaries has increased.

According to Cllr Butler, Alan Shatter, Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence is “letting down” gardai and the communities they serve, and needs to “cop on” and reverse the recent closures.

 natalie burke nburke@gazettegroup.com

“I’ve no doubt the presence of a local Garda station acts as a deterrent to criminals who target vulnerable households and properties. The value of a visible Garda presence should never be underestimated,” he said.

Dublin North saw Rush Garda Station close its doors in 2012, as well as the curtailing of station opening hours in both Malahide and Howth.

“The Minister is closing down Garda stations when there are not even enough patrol cars to use.

I’ve heard cases where the gardai in Swords have had to cycle to Donabate as there was no car available. Not even Lance Armstrong would be able to get there on time if there was an emergency situation.

“Before the last General Election, Fine Gael gave the impression that Garda stations throughout the country, particularly in rural areas, were safe under Fine Gael.

We now know this to be untrue. It makes no sense to remove the Garda presence from our towns

and rural communities at a time when the rate of burglaries has increased and, unfortunately, Rush is a perfect example of this,” he said, referring to the recent suspected arson attack at a church in the town.

Defending the decision made by Mr Shatter, Fine Gael TD Alan Farrell said the closures are resulting in communities being “more effectively policed”.

“The current reforms being implemented are all about using police resources more effectively. Under a recently agreed roster system, gardai spend less time behind their desks and

more time out in the community. This will see an additional 61,000 patrol hours dedicated towards community policing, crime prevention and crime detection.”

Cllr Anthony Lavin (FG) echoed the views of Deputy Farrell, saying that times have changed and “we need to progress”.

“Once the number of gardai we have remains at the levels they were when the reduced hours were introduced last year, I think we will get better protection. Gardai are out and about in communities helping to prevent crime rather than having to mind the Garda station.”

Five people killed on Fingal roads in 2012 A total of five people were killed on Fingal roads last year, recent figures have shown.

The statistics from the Road Safety Authority for 2012 show that the total number of fatalities on Fingal roads last year was five,

an increase on the three deaths recorded in 2011.

Fatalities

According to the statistics, one of the fatalities was a cyclist, one was a motorcyclist and three

were car users.

In 2011, a total of 152 people were injured as a result of road accidents in Fingal. The figures for the number of people injured in the area in 2012 are not yet available.

7 February 2013 MALAHIDE Gazette 3

schools

incident: td is pulled over by gardai after illegal right turn

Interest growing

Daly is stopped for drink-driving Dublin North and United Left Alliance TD Clare Daly has admitted to drinking a “house measure” of hot whiskey before she was pulled over by gardai on suspicion of drink-driving last week.

The local representative said she had consumed a hot whiskey as a remedy for a cold on the evening of Monday, January 28, after spending a couple of hours with a family in the south of the city.

“I had no food since lunchtime and did not realise the implications of taking this house measure of hot whiskey,” she said in a statement on her website.

Deputy Daly was

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

‘I had no food since lunchtime and did not realise the implications of taking this house measure of hot whiskey’

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

Clare Daly TD

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

pulled over by members of the gardai on the South Circular Road later that night, when she made an illegal right turn.

She was unable to give a roadside breath test and was taken to Kilmainham Garda Station where a urine sample was taken.

The tests have been sent to the Garda Road Safety Bureau and the results are expected to take a couple of weeks.

“I accept full responsibility for what is a serious lack of judgment and while I find it surprising that the gardai in Kilmainham released this information to tabloid journalists before 11am, I believe that the gardai implementing road safety have a job to do and I support them,” she said.

“Should the test result on the sample provided prove to be above the statutory limit, I will accept the consequences and resolve that this will not happen again,” she added.

Cutting a fine figure: Today FM launches Shave or Dye campaign the newly-punked Ian Dempsey kicked off Today FM’s Shave or Dye fundraiser proceedings recently with a special broadcast from Donabate Portrane Educate Together National School, where all 500 children arrived to school with Crazy Hair. Live on the show, teachers and parents shaved their heads and their very own early bird, Louise Duffy, went under the razor. Pictured are Ian Dempsey (left) and Louise Duffy with Alan Jaleru, from Style Club Pavillion Swords.

Interest in opening Educate Together national schools in Dublin is growing, according to a survey by the Department of Education.

The survey, which concludes on February 8, is the first time that parents have been consulted about their school type preferences. According to Educate Together’s communication officer Luke O’Shaughnessy interest is high for Educate Together schools.

“Parents, for the first time, have a chance to direct the future shape of the Irish educational system. We’ve received a number of queries from Skerries, Portmarnock, Malahide and Rush,” he said.

For information on Educate Together’s plans for Dublin, visit www.educatetogether.ie/choice.

4 MALAHIDE Gazette 7 February 2013

FastNews

journey Raising funds for oncology unit

bootcamp: two-day seminar

Course helps firms advance Fine Gael TD for Dublin north Alan Farrell

Action Plan for Jobs 2012 ‘helping to rebuild economy’ Measures being implemented under the Action Plan for Jobs 2012 are helping to rebuild our economy, according to local Fine Gael TD for Dublin north Alan Farrell.

Since the action plan was launched early in 2012, Deputy Farrell says the final progress report published recently proves the plan is working.

The report shows that 92% of the 270 measures committed to under the plan have been delivered.

The action plan was launched in an effort to deliver a wide range of measures to boost job creation and bring about economic growth and over the last 12 months there have been a number of encouraging signs of progress in the labour market.

“We had significant success in attracting a number of high profile companies to invest here last year, including Apple, EA Games, PayPal, Allergan, and Northern Trust,” Farrell said.

“The Government is focused on a range of training and activation measures to ensure people can re-skill and are ready to take full advantage of improvements in the economy.”

“The Action Plan for Jobs 2013 is due to be launched shortly; it will help us keep on the right track to getting Ireland back to work,” he said.

Art and craft classes for children Malahide Library will be hosting two art and craft classes for children in the run up to Valentine’s Day. A workshop will be held for four to seven-year-olds on Tuesday, February 12 from 2.30 to 3.30pm, while eight to 12-year-

olds will be able to make something for someone they love on Thursday, February 14.

The second workshop will be held from 11.30am to 12.30pm.

Places for the arts and crafts classes are limited, and booking in advance is essential. For more information and to book your child’s place, call the library on 01 870 4430.

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The two-day cycle will see friends and family of Ross Nugent join the local community in an effort to raise much-needed funds for the Oncology Unit at Beaumont Hospital

Two-day cycle to aid Ross Nugent charity  natalie burke

A charity cycle will be taking place next month from Dublin North to Rosses Point in Co Sligo, in aid of the local Ross Nugent Foundation.

The two-day cycle will see friends and family of Ross Nugent, the Dublin North teenager who died from cancer in 2010, join the local community in an effort to raise muchneeded funds for the Oncology Unit at Beaumont Hospital.

Ross was just 18 years old when he lost his battle with the bone disease Ewing’s Sarcoma in 2010.

Since his death, his family and friends have continued to fulfil his wishes to buy equipment for the hospital where he was treated towards the end of his life.

The charity cycle will have two options for those hoping to play their part in the fundraising event. The first cycle will leave Malahide on Thursday, March 7, and arrive at Rosses Point on the evening of Friday, March 8.

The cyclists will then begin their return journey on Saturday, March 9. Overnight accommodation will be booked

for those taking part and everyone will arrive back at Malahide on Sunday, March 10.

Alternatively, for the more faint-hearted and for those who are hoping to take part in the cycle for a bit of fun, there will be a bus transfer available to take participants to Sligo to meet those who have taken part in the full journey on Friday. All cyclists then have the opportunity to cycle back together to Malahide the following day.

A welcome home party is being organised for the two groups arriving back to Malahide. Fur-

ther details have yet to be confirmed.

According to a spokesperson for the foundation, all members of the community are welcome to get involved. “This is by no means a ‘race’, it’s all about taking part and having fun, and all levels of cyclists are welcome. We also are planning to run two fundraisers prior to the main event but details are to be confirmed,” the spokesperson said.

For anyone hoping to get involved or make a donation, contact cycleforrossnugentfoundation@gmail.com or call Aaron on 087 771 9452.

Businesses across Fingal took part in a twoday business bootcamp recently, in an effort to help drive their business further in 2013.

A total of 27 small startup businesses took part in the residential bootcamp course, which included training sessions as well as networking and advice.

It was organised by Fingal County Enterprise Board.

The programme, which was facilitated by QED Training, dealt with areas including starting up a business, how to deal with challenges, how best to use ecommerce and social media for business, as well as providing invaluable networking sessions.

Fingal County Enterprise Board ran seven different business training programmes last year, including a business bootcamp and a national conference for senior entrepreneurs, aimed at people starting their own companies and those in the early stages of running a business.

For more information on business training and development programmes offered by Fingal County Enterprise Board, visit: www.fingalceb.ie.

Coffee morning for education initiative  Natalie Burke

A coffee morning and raffle will be held in Malahide this weekend in aid of a worldwide education initiative, Global Schoolroom.

Local Malahide resident Mary Killen, who recently retired from Malahide Community School, will be hosting the coffee morning in advance of her charitable

journey to India this summer.

Mary will be travelling to India and working as a volunteer tutor with Global Schoolroom for the entire month of July, as part of a UCD-accredited teacher education programme.

The Global Schoolroom programme is an initiative that seeks to promote the sharing of educational experience between communities worldwide in an

effort to help eradicate poverty, promote economic development and build sustainable communities. Children in the communities involved receive a better quality education which ultimately leads to greater economic development and higher standards of living.

Malahide Community School and Mary Killen would appreciate the support of the local community at the coffee morning fun-

draiser, which will be held from 10am until 12.30pm at Malahide Yacht Club, St James Terrace, on Saturday, February 9.

The raffle will include a number of prizes, including a Fourball voucher donated by the Island Golf Club.

For more information on the work of Global Schoolroom, log on to www.globalschoolroom. net.

7 February 2013 MALAHIDE Gazette 5

launch Great and good gather at Swords Castle

Calendar fills up for Fingal’s big Gathering  natalie burke

This week saw the official launch of The Gathering in Fingal, with the announcement of a number of events to take place across the county throughout 2013.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Cian O’Callaghan (Lab), Fingal county manager David O’Connor and representatives from the main flagship events attended a photo-shoot at historic Swords Castle on Monday, February 4, where they marked the official

launch of The Gathering events in the local area.

Three flagship events have been allocated funding by IPB, including a medieval festival at Swords Castle on March 17 as part of the St Patrick’s Day festivities in Swords, a Summer Solstice Session at the Seamus Ennis Cultural Centre over the weekend of June 22 and 23, and the 2013 J24 Sailing World Championships at Howth, which will run from August 22 to 30.

Another 23 local events

will take place throughout Fingal and will be funded by the Failte Ireland Community Fund.

At the launch, Mayor O’Callaghan said: “The Gathering initiative is a wonderful opportunity for communities and clubs throughout the country to create unique events and bring international visitors to Ireland. I look forward to events in March starting what will, I hope, be a very exciting year for the citizens of Fingal, and extend a warm welcome to those international

David O’Connor, Mayor Cian O’Callaghan (Lab), Ciara Scully and PJ Howell

visitors who will come to Fingal to attend and participate in these events.”

County manager David O’Connor also welcomed the initiative, saying that Fingal County Council is “delighted” to be working with The Gathering team to enable the wide variety of events to take place.

“It gives us a wonderful showcase for sports

enthusiasts, food, film and music lovers and most of all, a reason for friends and family to come and visit,” he said.

Sports fans will enjoy the variety on offer from sailing, triathlon, golf, cricket, underwater hockey and football, while family events will include many community festivals, the Straw-

berry Fair, the second Flavours of Fingal Show and music events such as the summer solstice session and Malahide Festival of Piping and Drumming.

Details of upcoming Gathering events throughout 2013 will be published at www.fingalcoco.ie and www.thegatherineireland.com.

charity Wildlife quiz for children Ireland’s Children’s Nature Club is set to hold a special wildlife quiz in Malahide Library this weekend.

The quiz will be held

by OWLS (Outdoor, Wildlife, Learning and Survival), the children’s nature charity, and invites children between the ages of six and 11 years to take part. The quiz will take place on Friday, February 8 at 3.30pm.

The charity run a series of outdoor events and workshops throughout the year in parks and natural areas around Dublin.

They cater for families with young children who want to discover more about their natural heritage, while having fun outdoors.

For more information, visit www.owls.ie.

6 MALAHIDE Gazette 7 February 2013

gazetteGALLERIES

All the winners on the night. Pictures: Una Williams

great sport: Syl’s fill up with pride after fantastic year

S

T SYLVESTER’S GAA in Malahide held its fourth annual awards banquet recently at the Grand Hotel Malahide. The event, sponsored by Bank of Ireland, celebrated the fantastic achievements of the club’s players during the past year. 2012 was another great year for St Sylvester’s.

The night was a very memorable occasion as the club relived great sporting moments as recalled by winners of awards when asked their best memories on the field and the whole room felt the pride shared by players, winners and members alike, at the fantastic year shared both on and off the pitch.

Conor McDonnell and Robbie Whelan

Brian O’Brien, Vincent Shannon and Brendan Byrne.

Katie Slattery, Mel Flanagan and Anne Clarke

Francine Shelly, Aileen O’Flynn and Ann Haverty

Aimee Hazley and Niamh McEvoy

Celine Bonner and Conor McCabe

Niall and Orla O’Carroll and Susan and Tommy Naughton Robert Mooney, Juanita Cahill and Declan Farrelly

Tony Lambert and Jerry Harrington

7 February 2013 MALAHIDE Gazette 7

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Local

Matters S u p p o r t l o c a l b u s i n e ss

Fingal Dublin Chamber president, Siobhan Moore and Tatum Rooney

Pictures: Una Williams

Patrick Crawford, David Sloan and Noel McDonnell

Stephen Peppard and Tony Lambert

Dublin Chamber: supporting local retailers

Meeting and greeting evening great success F

ingal Dublin Chamber invited local businesses to join them for the first Chamber Network Evening of the New Year recently. The chamber was delighted to hold the evening in Gilbert and Wrights Wine Bar and to launch Phlok. Phlok is the fun service for discovering great deals in your local area and the chamber wants to encourage everyone who lives and works in the Fingal/

north Dublin area to have fun while at the same time supporting local retailers and businesses. Joining Phlok is a great way to do this. For more information please log on to www.phlok.com. Businesses attending the evening also had the opportunity to meet and network with a large group of business men and women from a wide range of business sectors.

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8 MALAHIDE Gazette 7 February 2013

Initiative Local groups urged to seek grants to host Europe-focused events

New fund aims to promote awareness of the EU  natalie burke

Local groups in Dublin North are being encouraged to apply for funding under the Government’s new Communicating Europe Initiative (CEI) by Fine Gael TD, Terence Flanagan.

The application process for

FastNews

80% register their septic tank system

With the deadline for the registration of septic tanks elapsed, the Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan has welcomed the positive response from homeowners.

According to results released this week, almost 400,000 households registered their septic tanks and domestic waste water treatment systems by the deadline of February 1.

This means that almost 80% of liable households registered by the deadline.

“The primary objective of this legislation… is to enhance and protect public health and the environment in terms of better quality water,” said Hogan.

Red Cross looking for new members The Malahide Red Cross are currently encouraging new members to join the local group.

The Red Cross continues to meet on a regular weekly basis and is open to anyone interested in joining the team or taking part. The group meets every Thursday at 8pm at St Sylvester’s GAA Club on the Church Road in Malahide.

For anyone interested in joining, or for more information, contact 086 237 2906.

the funding has officially commenced, and groups eligible to apply for funding include voluntary organisations, education bodies and civil groups.

The funding will go towards financing projects which are aimed at increasing public awareness about the role the EU plays in our daily lives.

The funding was welcomed by Deputy Flanagan, who said he is encouraging local organisations to submit proposals to the CEI. “In addition to hosting the Presidency of the EU for the first six months of this year, we are celebrating 40 years since Ireland joined the Euro-

pean Union. Since joining, we have benefitted in a number of ways, such as gaining access to new markets for our growing export sector, support for our farming communities and financial assistance to build new roads and public transport infrastructure,” Deputy Flanagan said.

The 2013 awards of funding under the CEI will be awarded to projects that encourage citizens to actively engage and participate in the debate on their future in Europe, including projects such as events promoting public conversations or debates at local or national level, cultural and

media projects explaining Ireland in Europe, events to celebrate the European Year of Citizens or events that celebrate Europe Day in May. For more information, see www.merrionstreet.ie/index. php/2013/01/communicating-europe-initiative-2013announced/

strategy: website, 12 actions and recommendations aim to curb problem

€500k to support State’s first anti-bullying plan natalie burke

nburke@gazettegroup.com

A new action plan introduced by the government last week could be set to help teachers, pupils and parents in Fingal and throughout the country tackle the scourge of bullying.

The action plan on bullying is the first of its kind to be introduced in Ireland and it “hopes to end the misery and fear endured for too long by many of the country’s young people at the hands of bullies.”

A total of €500,000 has been ring-fenced by the Government to support the implementation of the new action plan this year, which will include a campaign on cyber bullying and the development of national anti-bullying procedures for schools across the country.

According to Fine Gael TD Alan Farrell, the plan will be warmly welcomed by schools in Fingal.

“Bullying, whether it is online or in the school corridor, can have a very serious impact on children and young people.

Your confidence and self-belief can be shattered as a result of taunts and harassment from

your peers. This can have a lasting impact well into adulthood, and it is something that we should all be working together to address,” he said.

“As a former member of the board of management of several postprimary schools over the years, I think it is particularly appropriate to introduce such steps to focus on the reduction of bullying within our education system,” he continued.

In 2012, the Minister for Education, Ruairi Quinn TD, and the Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald TD, held an anti-bullying forum, which invited submissions from interested parties and stakeholders.

This has fed into the new Action Plan on Bullying, which includes 12 actions and a series of recommendations and has the potential to make a real difference in how the problem is tackled in schools.

As part of the plan, a new national antibullying website will be established to give parents, teachers and pupils advice and information on how to deal with bullying. New national procedures will be devel-

Fine Gael TD Alan Farrell says the new action plan will be warmly welcomed by schools in Fingal

oped for all schools, which will include a template for recording incidents of bullying, to be in place by the start of the next school year.

“The problem of bullying is nothing new; unfortunately children have been bullied for as long as they have been

going to school. But cyber bullying has added a new dimension to the problem; and we all need to face the challenge of how to tackle online harassment and abuse. As part of the action plan, a media campaign focused on cyber bullying will be launched in early Febru-

ary, specifically targeted at young people.”

The action plan includes plans to review current training procedures for teachers, to ensure they are getting the ongoing support they need to effectively tackle bullying. A number of recommen-

dations have also been made on the need for schools and community groups to work together in the development and implementation of antibullying policies: “Bullying is not confined to any one space; and it must be tackled in a cross-community fashion.”

7 February 2013 MALAHIDE Gazette 9

draft bill

changes: Ten-year-old scheme for environmental assessment

Daly wants action on abortion

Council to review Fingal sludge plan Fingal County Council is set to commence a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the review of the Sludge Management Plan for the Fingal region in the coming months.

The current Sludge Management Plan (SMP) was completed over 10 years ago, in 2002, where it made proposals to deal with sludge arising in Fingal. The sludge arose from a number of sources including agriculture, industry, water treatment and wastewater treatment.

The 2002 SMP made several recommendations for the treatment of sludge arising from the wastewater treatment plants which were exist-

ing or planned in Fingal at that time.

However, with the proposal for a new Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant as part of the Greater Dublin Drainage project, it is necessary for the SMP to be reviewed in the current context.

Adoption

The SEA will examine environmental considerations in the preparation and adoption of any changes to the 2002 Fingal SMP in terms of how sludge in Fingal will be dealt with.

A draft SMP and associated SEA Environmental Report will be made available for public consultation within the next few months.

During the public consultation phase, public open days will be held for the local community and feedback will be welcomed.

Ensures

The Strategic Environmental Assessment is a process that ensures that significant environmental effects arising from policies, plans and programmes are identified, assessed and mitigated.

It also ensures that opportunities for public involvement are provided. SEA is an important instrument that helps achieve sustainable development in public planning and policy making.

With all their heart: Muscular Dystrophy Ireland launches awareness day muscular Dystrophy Ireland’s Have a Heart National Awareness Day was officially launched recently in Dublin with presenter Pamela Flood and Joe Mooney, chief executive Muscular Dystrophy.

The condition muscular dystrophy can have a dramatic impact on people’s lives and more urgent action needs to be taken to tackle the increasing rise in people seeking support from the charity.

The charity is asking people to visit their local Debenhams store and buy a box of two heart-shaped Lily O’Brien’s chocolates for just €2 or a scented candle for just €3. The money raised will be used to fund respite support services and medical research. Donations can be made directly by logging on to www.mdi.ie

United Left Alliance TD Clare Daly has welcomed publication of the submissions to the public hearing of the Committee on Health and Children with regard to the Expert Group Report on abortion.

“We welcome the publication of these submissions. The minister now has ample evidence from which to proceed. We call for the prompt publication of a draft bill to provide for abortion on grounds of risk to the life of a woman – either by suicide or other reason related to a pregnancy,” she said.

“We will be campaigning for the repeal of the 8th Amendment to the Constitution and the introduction of free, safe, legal abortion in Ireland.”

10 MALAHIDE Gazette 7 February 2013

gazetteGALLERY

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Meg Halligan and Holly Creedon

Cathy O’Connor

Sean Munsanje

Kris Tykier, Rafe Spall and Dan Mazer at the premiere of ‘I give it a year’

Laughter in the aisles at newly-wed doubts M

ANY people turned out for the Irish premiere of ‘I Give It a Year’ at Cineworld on Parnell Street.

The film was created by Borat writer Dan Mazer and features stars including Anna Faris, Simon Baker and Stephen Merchant. It is a comedic portrayal of

Eve Birch and Rebecca Wynne-Walsh

a newly-wed couple’s experience of their first year of marriage, and the many trials that come with it. The film looks at their first nine months of marriage, and how the couple have doubts about whether they really are destined to be together or not.

Donna and Patrick Robinson

Robert Rhattigan and Sarah Murphy

Eva McCarthy and Ciara O’Brien

7 February 2013 Gazette 11

schools P14

asdfsdaf businessP27 P16

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

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Gazette

diary P12

RDS: sencity a multi-sensory music event

Come fill up your senses at dance extravaganza A unique music and dance experience is being held this weekend at the RDS. Sencity is a multi-sensory music event with a difference as the whole show is created by talented young people with hearing difficulties.

The Dublin Sencity show will feature a team of 16 deaf and hard-ofhearing young people from the capital who were trained for the show

by the Sencity organisers from Holland.

This music and dance extravaganza first originated in the Netherlands and is unusual in that the audience has all its senses explored and stimulated in time with the music.

Not only do you hear the music or feel the rhythm but you see, smell and taste the whole experience too.

Sencity attempts to capture the music’s pas-

sion and spirit through many different sensory channels. On stage there will be expressive sign dancers translating lyrics and emotions into Irish Sign Language, video projections, light effects, taste sensations, hairdressers and an incredible vibrating sense dance floor which responds to the music’s bass frequency.

Live artists on the night include Signmark, Kormac’s Big Band, The

Wonder Villains, Torann Drums and Gavxmas.

As well as this multisensory action, there will also be laser and light shows turning the music into colours, shapes and pictures.

Sencity will take place on Saturday, February 9 in the RDS Concert Hall from 9am until 3pm. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster for €17.50, or can be purchased at the door for €24.

Sencity is a multi-sensory music event with a difference as the whole show is created by talented young people with hearing difficulties

Gazette

12 Gazette 7 February 2013

dublinlife

diary

Show the nation what you’ve got

For any talented musical acts looking for a chance to show the nation what they’ve got, following in the footsteps of the likes of Imelda May and Boyzone could be just the boost they need to make it big.

The Late Late Show is launching a brand new initiative giving emerging Irish acts a chance to appear on the biggest show on Irish television.

In recent years artists such as The Coronas, Maverick Sabre and The Strypes have used the show as a launch pad for their careers.

Now this opportunity has been made even more accessible for

emerging talent.

To apply, email a YouTube link of one song to thelatelateshowcase@rte.ie with a brief description and contact details.

Bram Stoker Experience A brand new museum dedicated to all things Dracula opened its doors to the public last week in Clontarf, the home of Irish author Bram Stoker.

The museum takes you on a visual journey through the life and times of the Victorian Gothic writer.

There is live narration by historian Dennis McIntyre and a display of first editions of the

classic novel and notes in Stoker’s own hand.

Every Thursday night at 9pm is film night at the museum, with tickets costing €5 and booking is essential.

T h e B r a m S t o ke r Museum is located at 225 Clontar f Road, Dublin 3 and is open from 10am until 4.30pm.

To book tickets, contact Dennis McIntyre on 086 236 4829.

anti-cyber bullying talks This month, An Garda Siochana will deliver a series of anti-cyber bullying talks in Dublin schools to promote Safer Internet Day, a global internet safety initiative.

The Talks In Schools

programme will be delivered during the month of February to secondary school pupils throughout the country.

It will promote positive interventions by witnesses of online bullying situations and appropriate coping strategies for victims.

The programme also aims to help students to understand the impact that cyber bullying can have on different people, and to recognise that cyber bullying is not acceptable.

Lists of local schools that will be taking part in the programme are available from your local Garda Division. For more information, see www. watchyourspace.ie

The Late Late Show is giving talented musicians a chance to appear on television where Imelda May (above) and Boyzone hit it big

7 February 2013 Gazette 13

FEATURE Skillnets training fund

eu directive: changeover begins

Driving licence credit-card style cruises into view Wave goodbye to the pink paper and say hello to the new credit card style driving licence, which was officially launched last week.

Two new drivers were the first people to be presented with the new driving licence card by Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varakdar last week.

Almost 6,000 new plastic card licences have been issued to drivers this week following the changeover from paper licences to plastic card licences on

January 19.

The new plastic card licence is one aspect of an EU Directive to upgrade and standardise all licences across the EU. Previously, as many as 100 different types of licence were in operation throughout Europe.

According to Minister Varadkar, the new licence is more secure and more convenient than the existing paper version.

“It will help to eliminate licence fraud, ensure that motorists are properly trained and licensed,

and keep unlicensed drivers off our roads. It’s more modern and more convenient. It’s also recognised throughout the EU, so Irish road users will enjoy the benefits and protections which drivers already have in other EU countries.

“The RSA and the Motor Tax Offices have done sterling work in making the new application process as easy as possible for motorists. I want to thank the RSA for their hard work, and for meeting the EU dead-

The new-look licence is more secure and more convenient than the old version

line on schedule, without requiring additional Exchequer funding,” he added.

Noel Brett, chief executive of the Road Safety Authority, said: “Since the new licence card was introduced, we have received some really positive feedback from people

who have been among the first to receive one.

“Among the ben efits they see in the new licence is that it’s more durable, modern and easier to carry around, as well as being recognised throughout the EU. Because it cannot be easily replicated, it will also

act as a key road safety tool to keep those who are illegally driving a vehicle off our roads.”

For details on the new licence, to download an application form or for more information the changes to some driver licensing rules, log on to www.ndls.ie

Private sector companies in Dublin are being encouraged to apply to a new training fund, announced this week by Skillnets. The €500,000 fund is open for applications until April 30.

Groups of companies must join together to form a network to apply for funding, with groups permitted to be formed on a geographical or sectoral basis, once member companies have identified common training needs amongst their employees.

A seminar for Dublin businesses interested in applying for funding to Skillnets will take place on March 12 at 8am in the Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley.

Visit www.skillnets.ie.

14 Gazette 7 February 2013

Gazette

dublinlife schools schoolLife My week at the Gazette work experience: a step into the real world

Get involved with our new Gazette schools pages

As part of the relaunch of the Dublin Gazette Newspapers, we are reaching out to all the schools in our catchment areas to become a closer part of our community than ever before.

Schools are the beating hearts of communities, one of the last places around which a community can gather.

We are calling on budding writers and photographers from all of our schools to help fill the pages and, in order to encourage the next generation of journalists and snappers to get involved, we are partnering with Harvey Norman to present the Dublin Gazette Newspapers’ Cub Reporter and Cub Photographer of the Year awards.

For more details, contact rheigh@gazettegroup.com, or on 01 601 0240.

 Jen Maguire Donohoe

Colaiste Brid, Clondalkin

As part of the Fifth Year LCVP module, every student must leave the safe cocoon of school for a week and experience life in “the real world”. The thoughts of a full week off school sounded ideal, but first I had to find somewhere to go.

In school, I was told that I should go somewhere that interests me and I should think long and hard about my future career choices before applying anywhere. Having never worked before, this all seemed like a daunt-

ing task but surprisingly it wasn’t. I sent an email of enquiry to the Gazette and they promptly emailed me with good news – I had my first work experience placement.

My first day of work experience arrived and I was both an xious and delighted, anxious because the thoughts of being in a professional work environment was slightly terrifying. I, of course, had nothing to be fearful of. I quickly got used to the constant tapping of keyboards and the terrifyingly loud phone calls that admittedly made me jump out

Jennifer Maguire Donohoe : Fifth year student at Colaiste Brid in Clondalkin

of my skin the first few times I heard the shrilling ringing tone.

I learned how to “be a journalist”. This involved

grasping how to convert a press release into an article that, I as a reader, would be interested in and mastering the art

of gaining information from time-restrained sources.

I also visited a local school ceremony and learned how to recognise what the key points of a news story should be. I always thought of journalism as a solitary career, but after being in the Gazette, I realised that it takes more than one person to make a story come alive.

Not only did the Gazette show me what I could be doing in a few years if I did pursue journalism, but I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the office.

Overall, I think for my first venture into the real world, the Gazette was the perfect place to go.

SCHOOl

Matters p romote yo u r e v e n ts

CONTACT US WITH YOUR NEWS

6010240

7 February 2013 Gazette 15

Gazette

16 Gazette 7 February 2013

dublinlife

initiative: developing healthcare solutions

Q&A

€15,000 opportunity for digital entrepreneurs

Garret o’neill, general manager

Exceeding expectations at the Crowne Plaza Garret O’Neill, originally from Galway City worked in the hotel industry from the age of 15 where he started out as a waiter in the Jameson Hotel in Salthill. From there, he decided that a career in the hotel industry was for him. He graduated with a degree in hotel management from GMIT. Having spent some time in Frankfurt and the Black Forest in Germany, he returned to Galway where he held

the position of senior manager in the Corrib Great Southern Hotel.

In 2008, he joined the pre-opening team as the deputy general manager at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown. Shortly after opening he was promoted to general manager of the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dundalk.

In 2011, he returned to the Crowne Plaza in Blanchardstown as the general manager.

How long have you been in business?

want and deliver it. We put them at the very heart of everything we do. We have a great team here who possess a genuine interest in our guests. They constantly deliver a warm welcome and exceptional service.

evolving to suit our guests’ needs. We aim to exceed expectations by taking guests by surprise – going beyond what they expect, so that they stay with us again and recommend us to others.

What makes your business successful?

What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?

How has the recession impacted your business?

The Crowne Plaza Hotel, DublinBlanchardstown opened its doors on the October 1, 2008, so we will be celebrating our fifth birthday later this year!

“The customer is always right!” We listen to what our clients

business

We are constantly

As with all businesses in Ireland, the recession has certainly made things more challenging.

People became a lot more value conscious and demanded quality for their money. We ensured that we provided this, delivering an exceptional product for great value.

What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business?

I would like to see the lowered rate of VAT extended to 2014 and beyond.

It was an initiative welcomed by the whole hospitality sector and our consumers alike.

Digital entrepreneurs have been offered the chance to secure €15,000 in funding, as well as free office space and enterprise development support thanks to a new digital health project.

Connected Health – a joint initiative between the Digital Hub Development Agency (DHDA) and St James’s Hospital – is aimed at supporting digital technology companies to develop solutions to common healthcare challenges.

According to Dr Stephen Brennan, chief strategy officer with the DHDA, Connected Health is the culmination of over a year of planning and collaboration between staff at St James’s Hospital and The Digital Hub. “We’re calling on digital entrepreneurs and innovators to submit proposals, outlining how they could resolve the challenges identified by St James’s staff.

“Successful companies will not only receive seed funding and free office space at The Digital Hub. “They will also be able

Dr Gerard Boyle, principle physicist at St James’s Hospital; Dorothy Ellen White, project manager, Connected Health; Dr Stephen Brennan, chief strategy officer with the Digital Hub Development Agency and Dr David Robinson, consultant physician in geriatric medicine

to work directly with clinicians at St James’s, drawing on their expertise and on the data being captured by the hospital in developing new digital solutions.

“In addition, The Digital Hub will provide free enterprise development supports for successful applicants,” said Dr Brennan who added that the problems that were being worked on had been identified by staff in the hospitals.

“The beauty of this approach is that entre-

preneurs will be developing solutions for real-life problems that have been identified by healthcare professionals.

“This means that the market for potential solutions is already defined, a big help to companies looking to invest in product and service development.”

The first call for proposals from Connected Health will focus on local asset mapping.

Digital enterprises have until February 15 to submit applications out-

lining how they would develop a website and mobile app using local data to document all health-related services in the vicinity of St James’s Hospital.

One successful applicant will be selected to receive the €15,000 seed funding and package of support mechanisms.

For further information, and to apply online, go to: http://www.thedigitalhub.com/move-to-thehub/connected-health/ apply-to-participate-inlamp-here/1206.

There is no shame in ‘signing on’ Unemployment is a great leveller. We’ve all heard the stories about solicitors in the dole queue and architects working in McDonald’s.

Many professional people are resistant to signing on.

This is particularly true of men.

I’m encountering an increasing number of men in the 40-60plus age bracket who are finding themselves in financial straits because they’re basically too proud to ask for State help. Their savings are running out; creditors are stepping up the pressure; they’re borrowing from friends and family – often without the knowledge of their spouses. Something has to give.

In the minds of many men, signing on carries a stigma. Whereas previously, saying that you’d “never asked the State for anything” was worn as a badge of honour; these days – depending on your circumstances – it can be downright foolhardy.

Going to the social welfare office for the first time can be daunting, but it’s just like any other bureaucratic process. You have to provide them with the correct information in a timely and responsible manner. If you are overly anxious about going, bring a family member or friend with you.

Times have changed. If you are doing your best to obtain work, being in receipt of a temporary weekly payment does not make you a scrounger or a waster.

Give yourself some breathing space, there’s no shame in it anymore.  Contact Rachael at hello@thecareerhub.ie or visit www. thecareerhub.ie. Rachael Kilgallon is a FETAC qualified career coach and founder of The Career Hub.

Valentine’s Day



Gazette

7 February 2013 Gazette 17

The essential guide to finding that extra special something for that special someone

l val enti n e’ s day i d e as l

30 steps to love

WANT to make your love life more romantic? Even the most ardent lover can use romantic inspiration from time to time, especially when the pressure’s on with St Valentine’s day just around the corner.

Whether you’re about to go on a romantic getaway, or you are going to be spending time alone together at home, adding some romantic touches will help to put both of you in a cheerful mood and bring you closer together.

Try some of these 30 romantic ideas and ignite romance with your loved one. And these ideas aren’t confined to February 14!

1. Get away from it all 2. Celebrate an anniversary — any anniversary — with an anniversary trip 3. Expect the best — but get it for less, especially in these tough times 4. If you’re going away together for a romantic weekend, request the honeymoon suite 5. Schedule a romantic dinner — and make it a surprise 6. Tell her how beautiful she is or how handsome he looks 7. Turn off the TV in your room; better yet, don’t turn it on at all. Better still, throw it out of the room altogether!

8. Make a big deal — a really big deal — out of a birthday 9. Go window shopping, then circle back and buy something your better

half admired

sion to celebrate

candles

where and indulge

10. If you’re on a romantic

15. Inspired by a hotel

19. Pack a picnic, and

25. Watch a romantic film

break, ask the concierge

room? Redecorate your

don’t forget the wine

or DVD

to plan the day for you

bed at home with new

20. Enjoy a barefoot din-

26. Take better travel

11.Use the Do Not Disturb

sheets and pillows to

ner on the beach

pictures — and frame

sign — and bring it home

match the decor you

21. Go out just for dessert

your favourites

with you

enjoyed there

22. Find out what long-

27. Sleep out all night on

12.Share a secret no one

16. Steal a kiss in a public

married couples do to

the beach

else knows

place

keep it real

28. Take an overnight

13. Write a love letter and

17. Count the stars

23. Pack a book of classic

train and ride in a com-

seal it with a love stamp

together

love poems

partment just for two

14. Give roses when

18. Save energy: Shut

24. Bring chocolate, any

29. Propose

there’s no special occa-

off the lights and light

time, in any form, any-

30. Elope

Take the time to make your love life even more romantic

Valentine’s Day

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 7 February 2013

Miss Selfridge NOW €39

Miss Selfridge €85

Awear €25

Miss Selfridge €65

Valentine’s

Dress to impress this  LAURA WEBB

CUPID is getting ready for his busiest day of the year, and so are women across Dublin.

This week, Gazette Style is on the look-out for the perfect dress that will impress lovers old or new. Don’t be shy when it comes to picking a dress for date night this Valentine’s Day. Be bold and beautiful with red. Whether you want to go all out with a statement red dress, or be a little more demure with a hint of red mixed in, now is the time to get adventurous and play with red on Valentine’s Day.

NEXT €52

Miss Selfridge €85

Dunnes Stores €22

7 February 2013 Gazette 19

Say ‘I will’ at Carton House

l tem pt i n g fo o d s l

Romantic menu at Royal Marine

HEAD chef Darrin Parrish, at the Royal Marine Hotel, has developed a special Valentine’s Day menu, using some unique and special foods appropriate to the spirit of the day.

Here are some fascinating facts about some of the components of the dishes on offer, which make up the sensuous seductive offering at the Dun Laoghaire hotel.

Oysters: This seafood speciality was documented by the Romans in the second century to have

aphrodisiac qualities.

tion — if you dare.

Nutmeg: This spice is highly prized by Chinese women as an aphrodisiac, and it is said that large quantities can produce a hallucinogenic effect.

Broccoli: Everyone’s favourite vegetable is said to increase virility.

Truff les: The musky scent of this delicacy is said to stimulate and sensitise the skin to touch.

Liquorice: This sweet is said to enhance love, more so in women.

Avocado: The Aztecs called the avocado tree “ahuacuati”. Chef Parrish suggests that you ask your waiter for transla-

Fennel: This was used as a libido enhancement by the Egyptians.

If all this is whetting your appetite, than call the Royal Marine Hotel on 01 230 0030 for a reservation, or see www. royalmarine.ie for more information.

Gazette

The essential guide to finding that extra special something for that special someone

Animal attraction: Love is in the air love is in the air at Dublin Zoo as it gets ready to open its doors

early for an exclusive Valentine Date for couples everywhere.

From 8am on Saturday and Sunday, February 16 and 17, the zoo is offering couples a unique alternative date at one of the most interesting destinations in Dublin, with special keeper talks on the courtship, breeding and the exotic mating rituals of some of the animals.

There are a limited number of 100 tickets, which cost €60, available to ensure that the experience is truly romantic. For more information, log on to www.dublinzoo.ie.

Carton House is inviting couples to say “I will” this Valentine’s Day on their romantic grounds.

T he venue, which was shortlisted for 2012 Leinster Wedding Venue of the Year, has created the Carton House Perfect Proposal package which can include overnight accommodation, use of the Shell Cottage which overlooks the River Rye, or a romantic boat ride, champagne and flowers.

For more information on the Perfect Proposal package, visit www.cartonhouse.com or call 01 505 2000.

Gazette

20 Gazette 7 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

HOMES

HOME: ideal standard’s style predictions

Key to a great home is a great bathroom A crucial element to a great home is a great bathroom, and Brussels-based bathroom solution company, Ideal Standard, are intent on helping people create their ideal salle de bain.

One of Europe’s leading bathroom brands, Ideal Standard’s goal is stated to be “to create a life space that reflects personalised well-being”.

The brand follows three main philosophies: design, functionality and innovation, and Ideal Standard international designer Robin Levien is certain that those values will still apply throughout 2013 when he recently gave his bathroom predictions for this year.

“Whilst these straitened times won’t be changing soon, it’s not all bad. We are learning to value what’s really important in life - family, friends, good food and a comfortable home.

“I see the bathroom as a key element of our homes over the coming years.

“Over one-in-four people use their bathroom as a place to relax and this trend will continue to become more and more popular throughout 2013. Luxury bathing

options provide the ultimate way to unwind after a busy day and get some peace and quiet.”

Robin went on to detail the kinds of themes that he expects to see prevalent in bathroom design and fittings this year.

“We will continue to look back to more optimistic times and mid 20th century vintage is where it’s at. This will manifest in shapely accessories in the bathroom, a collection of 60s glass vases for example to provide an optimistic note.

“Blocks of colour will brighten up

the bathroom, it’s very easy to fit a sheet of painted plywood for a bath panel then play off the colour with complementary soft elements like towels and bath mats – they don’t all have to be the same colour.

“Besides vintage stylings, we are wanting to get back to nature. This is a great trend for the bathroom as ceramics already have a natural quality that provides a perfect foil for softer natural materials like wood.

“We are celebrating the handmade again too so things don’t have to be perfect, the pristine quality of the pieces of ceramic in the bathroom can be complemented by hand thrown porcelain accessories.”

Robin also suggests that you take the natural theme to its logical extreme in your bathroom redesign.

“What better place to grow some plants than the bathroom, plenty of moisture to keep them happy. There are some very clever plant pots that hang upside down from the ceiling.

This is a great solution for using the unused space above the bath and you can lie in the bath under an Amazonian rainforest canopy.”

Over one-in-four people use their bathroom as a place to relax

7 February 2013 Gazette 21

Gazette

MUSIC interVIEW: a great voice returns to Ireland

It’s got to be perfect for singer Eddi Reader Eddi Reader once sang that “It’s got to be perfect...”, and she is bringing her perfect voice and folk stylings back to Ireland later this month.

Gazette Music caught up with Eddi as she prepared to take the stage at the BBC Radio 2 British Folk Awards, held in Glasgow last week, and she was thrilled and looking forward to sharing the stage with one of her inspirations.

“I’ll be on stage singing Caledonia with my

 ROB heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com

heroine, Barbara Dickson. She’s a remarkable inspiration to lassies like me growing up, she was one of the few women standing on a stage with a microphone and a guitar. She was the queen of the folk scene, so it will

be great to hear her singing tonight.”

Bringing the show back to Ireland, Eddi will be honing some of the songs that may form the foundations of her upcoming album, which she will be going into the studio to record in the coming months, a process she is looking forward to.

“I’ve been working on the new album, spending the last two years collecting ideas, and it’s time to go into the studio now.

I’ve booked the time and

it’ll all work out. There’s a point when you need to invest yourself and get involved in the record.

The songs will dictate the sound – you don’t know sometimes where they’ll be going, until they start talking to you.”

Eddi says that one of the things she enjoys the most about performing is connecting with an audience on a personal level.

“What I do has to be in the moment, and I enjoy it so much. I’m delighted when someone comes up

Eddi Reader is bringing her perfect voice and folk stylings back to Ireland

to me after a show saying that they were blown away when they only knew me from Perfect and Fairground Attraction.”

Asked about what she likes the most about coming to perform in Ireland, Eddi was unequivo-

cal about the reasons.

“The fact that the audience listening are as musical as me. They know what they like, and they share the moments with me. Irish audiences are very open people in a way that I recognise from where I come from, that

people are musical and sing songs at the drop of a hat.”

Eddi brings her Irish tour to the Pavilion Theatre in Dun Laoghaire on February 15, Draiocht in Blanchardstown on February 15, and Whelan’s on February 20.

Gazette

22 gazette 7 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

Theatre

THE pavilioN THEATRE 01 231 2929 Beckett X 3

GODOT Theatre Company London are back with three more short Beckett plays on Friday and Saturday, February 8 and 9 at 8.15pm in the Pavilion. Tickets are priced at €17/€15.

Draiocht 01 885 2622 Singlehood

ARE you single? Have you never been single? Do you wish you were single? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this is the show for you.

Singlehood is a funny and uplifting theatre documentary exploring the art of being single.

Renowned for her documentary theatre practice, Una McKevitt in collaboration with writer David Coffey (Dan & Becs, Fade St) interviewed over 50 singletons to bring their raw and revealing stories to the stage.

February 14, tickets €16/€12.

Mill THEATRE 01 296 9340 David O’Doherty

Life is a marathon, not a sprint. But it is a sort of marathon that you really have to sprint. And there are hurdles and weights to lift. And swimming. And shooting. Life is basically The Olympics. But at the end you don’t get a medal, you die. Catch David on Saturday, February 16, tickets are priced at €18/€14.

Even in the rain, Denzel is the coolest man on the planet

review: with washington at the controls, this movie soars

Denzel takes off I have something of a confession, dear readers.

In the year or so that I have been writing movie reviews for The Gazette, I have never particularly taken to one aspect of the place; the five-star movie rating system.

It eliminates grey areas and leaves reviews to define something as either awful, mediocre, average, great or excellent.

This system panders to a modern need to have everything fit into a neatly labelled box and removes nuance.

And, as is so often the case in my life, it has taken Denzel Washington to show me the way.

It is Flight that has me pondering this existential gap in the human ability to judge relative merits.

For, it is not an average film nor is it a great film.

In the aforementioned

Film of the Week: Flight h h h h (15) 138 mins Director: Robert Zemeckis Starring: Denzel Washington, Kelly Reilly, Bruce Greenwood, Don Cheadle, John Goodman

 Paul Hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

five-star system, three is too little, four is too generous.

Which is why I am implementing the half star, the seven out of 10 in this case.

Because, this is definitely a film worth seeing.

Is it a life-changer?

Not really. Will it feature in many best of the year lists? Unlikely.

Will it entertain you for just north of two hours?

Almost certainly.

The bulk of the entertainment is carried in the first 40 minutes, as we get acquainted with Washington’s pilot Whip Whitaker.

By get acquainted I

OUR VERDICT: WHILE it is good to see Zemeckis back doing live action, after many years trying to make motion-capture relevant, he falls just short of a great comeback. The actual crash sequences are excellent, but after that the story struggles to find a consistent tone and relies on a lazily written, albeit wildly fun, sidekick in John Goodman and a relationship that feels just too convenient for the tone of the first hour.

mean see him do drugs and have sex in a cheap motel room a couple of hours before taking control of a plane carrying 112 people.

So first impressions aren’t great, but when the mess hits the fan, only one person keeps their cool.

As a storm, a nervous co-pilot and his own drunkeness conspire against him, Whitaker manages to guide the plan out of a perilous situation into a field.

First anninted a hero, Whitaker must face pub-

lic and political scrutiny into his condition on the day of the crash.

It is here that the film feels strained.

At 138 minutes long, it is probably bloated by about 20 minutes and the weight given to the various relationships in the film is out of kilter.

Why spend so long on a marriage of convenience with fellow addict Kelly Reilly (who is excellent, notwithstanding), and leave us so bereft of screen time with Whip’s son and ex wife?

W hen confronting

these relationships, Jason Gatins script, which has been nominated for an Oscar, falls a little short.

But, what it does exceptionally well is pose an important question; why do we always need a hero?

Here is a man who took charge of a plane drunk, yet the audience wants him to prevail because of how well he landed the plane and, let’s be honest, just how goddamn cool he is. It is an interesting moral conundrum that will have many in disagreement afterwards.

Of course, this is Denzel’s movie.

He is on screen for almost every scene and absolutely dominates every last one, playing Whitaker with arrogance, coolness and vulnerability. His Oscar nomination is richly deserved and his performance more than reason enough to give Flight a whirl.

7 February 2013 malahide gazette 23

Gazette

GAMING a spellbinding playstation 3 game: Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch

BYTES&PIECES kicking 4K into the public eye

It’s magical ONCE again, the PlayStation 3 lays claim to a beautiful title as a platform-exclusive game, in the fascinating new title, Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch.

An innovative tie-in with famed Japanese anime company, Studio Ghibli, and acclaimed role-playing game (RPG) masters Level-5, Wrath tells the story of Oliver, a young boy whose mother has just passed away.

The upset boy’s tears bring a toy doll to life, as Drippy, the King of the Fairies (apparently a

Welsh spirit) takes pity on Oliver, resolving to help him with his determination to bring his dead mother back.

It isn’t long before the two new friends are wandering through a parallel universe, with Oliver developing magic spells and special abilities along the way, as well as mastering the use of Familiars in battle.

So, in essence, Wrath is presented as a vast RPG with standard magic/ Pokemon-ish undertones, making it a challenging yet fun tale with some

Japan to broadcast 2014 World Cup in super-fidelity ALTHOUGH it’s yet to register in the public consciousness in the same way that HD, or even Blu-Ray, has, 4K – image fidelity that is several times clearer than even HD – could well be the future of all our viewing. (Yes, yes, we all know that some people said that about 3D televisions, too.) Now, Japan is set to broadcast several 2014 World Cup matches in 4K – an on-the-ball move by the tech-savvy nation, or something of an own goal? We’ll find out, in 2014 ...

a portable new office

Microsoft updates suite to suite modern tastes OFFICE, Microsoft’s stalwart software collection familiar to bazillions of people everywhere, has been updated, with its rejigged suite having a particular relevancy for touch-screen devices. As to be expected, you shouldn’t expect to see Office appearing on rival devices, but it seems like a logical facility for Microsoft’s Surface tablet, as well as being a welcome, if not overdue, update of the classic suite.

 shane dillon

sdillon@gazettegroup.com

unusual themes of loss, acceptance, courage and so on.

However, what makes it of particular note – apart from its great score – is how beautiful it looks, with the Studio Ghibli connection making Wrath one of the best-looking games out there, and easily one to recommend.

an appealing move?

Apple unveils 128GB iPad

Despite being a child, Oliver has enough courage and heart to put many an adult to shame, as he searches for a way to bring his deceased mother back to life, and makes new friends along the way

FOR those of you with a need to cram an awful lot of content onto your tablets, Apple have unveiled a 128GB iPad, which is enough to hold – oh, lots and lots of stuff, given that it’s double the storage space of what was previously available. However, the natural price hike you’ll face for such extra space may not be the most tempting of things for cash-strapped consumers to sink their teeth into.

24 MALAHIDE gazette 7 February 2013

Gazette

& OUT ABOUT road

Citroen C-Zero: comfortable, quick, quiet and cheap to run

NOISE

Ford Fiesta sold every two minutes in Europe in 2012 Consumers bought a new Ford Fiesta every two minutes on average last year, making it the bestselling small car in Europe, according to automotive data intelligence provider JATO Dynamics.

Last year, Ford sold 953,174 cars in the 30 European markets monitored by JATO, including 306,405 Fiestas. The Fiesta also was the best-selling B-car (sub-compact) globally for the first nine months of 2012, with more than 560,000 Fiestas sold worldwide, according to the latest Polk new vehicle registration data.

Ford has sold more than 15 million Fiestas worldwide since the vehicle first went into production in 1976.

MOTORS

The Fiesta now has been the top-selling small car in Europe for three out of the past four years.

The new Fiesta also offers MyKey, a Fordexclusive technology that allows parents to encourage safer driving and limit their teenager’s exposure to risk at the wheel.

Ford also has equipped new Fiesta with Ford SYNC, a voice-activated in-car connectivity system, and SYNC emergency assistance, which directly connects vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident.

The new 2013 Fiesta is now available from Ford dealers across Dublin. For more details, see: www.dub linford.ie.

It’s an electric time for the motor industry n Cormac Curtis

One of the loudest voices in electric vehicles this week claimed that there is revolution under way in the motoring world.

In an interview with Liz Claman at Fox Business in America, Renault-Nissan chief executive Carlos Ghosn said the moment of the electric car is now.

“It is a revolution,” he said. Despite the fact that the Renault Leaf fell way short of its ambitious 2012 sales target, Ghosn says the future of the auto industry is all about fuelefficient cars.

The C-Zero is comfortable, quick, quiet and cheap to run.

It has an accurate display of how long a distance it will cover, and that adjusts itself if you have the air conditioning on or off or any other features that might drain the battery.

It produces zero emissions, is almost completely silent in operation and now benefits from up to almost €10,000 of grants including a VRT rebate and SEAI electric vehicle grant – very attractive facts all round.

Using advanced new technology, the car has high energ y density lithium-ion batteries to provide greater range.

It can be charged at any time, whatever the initial charge state of the battery, via an ordinary domestic 13amp electricity socket.

It is nimble and lively, boasting a tiny turning circle of just 9m. It does offer decent enough room, accommodation up to for four people plus some luggage space.

At the C-Zero’s heart is a compact, ultra-efficient permanent magnet synchronous 49kW electric motor, which has a peak

The C-Zero has lively acceleration in urban operation, it can hold its own on main roads or motorways, with a maximum speed of 128km

torque rating of 180Nm. Thanks to the electric motor’s intrinsic ability to provide peak torque from standstill, the C-Zero has lively acceleration in urban operation – and out on the open road, it can hold its own on main roads or motorways, with a maximum speed of 128km.

With its advanced battery technology and the regenerative capability of its electric motor during

braking, the C-Zero provides an extended range of up to 93 miles Research has shown that the average daily urban journey is only 23 miles, so it can fit into the everyday lives of many busy families.

Using standard 13 amp domestic electricity supply, the C-Zero can be fully charged in around eight hours, so this operation can be carried out overnight or while parked

at work. There is also an alternative quick charge system, which enables up to 80% of the C-Zero’s battery charge to be replenished in just 30 minutes.

The C-Zero has stateof-the-art safety and security features as well as comfort and convenience features including leather steering wheel and leather gear knob.

The sticker price is €25,975.

7 February 2013 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 25

CANARY ISLANDS: A LITTLE EXOTIC OPULENCE ON THE ISLAND OF LANZAROTE

Embracing all things volcanic in Playa Blanca With Thomas Cook Ireland flying direct to Lanzarote from Dublin all year round, the popular Canary Island is one destination we’re hoping to set our sights on this summer.

Recently, our reporter DAVE PHILLIPS opted for a little exotic opulence on the island of Lanzarote and will be certainly returning this year…

FOR those of a migratory mind, Lanzarote is an ideal refuge from the chill during the winter, as well as the summer months, but the weather isn’t the only draw here.

Distinct from the other Canary Islands, Lanzarote has always cultivated and maintained a gentler approach to tourism and development. Much of this is directly linked to César Manrique, an artist and architect who had great influence in the development of the island for tourism.

The complete lack of billboards, the absence of any high-rise structures and the uniform simplicity of colours used to paint walls and windows of homes across the island all contribute towards the sense of calmness that Lanzarote seems to exude.

On a recent trip, I spent a day with Marcelo from Canary Trekking, a tour company that specialises in taking small

groups trekking across the island’s volcanic landscape. The coarse lapilli – pea-sized fragments of volcanic rock ejected during eruptions – which crunches underfoot, has transformed the landscape into otherworldly shades of black, grey, and orange.

A trip through Timanfaya National Park showcases some of the most impressive volcanic peaks and craters. The ground here is fragmented, jutting at odd angles, and in several places still very hot. Layers of magma at a shallow depth release intense heat through small crevices, or “chimneys” around the park.

Some of these are so hot you could cook food on them.

That’s exactly what you’ll find on offer at the El Diablo restaurant perched high in the centre of the park. The stunning restaurant, designed

by Manrique, offers an unparalleled view of the

park, and probably one of the only chances you’ll have to try geo-thermally cooked chicken.

If you’re looking to completely embrace the volcanic theme, you can stay at Hotel Volcan, at Playa Blanca. Volcan is a beautiful five-star hotel with generous rooms and an impressive façade incorporating a large replica volcano. The hotel overlooks a harbour and the Playa Blanca marina, which can be accessed through the hotel gardens.

Taking the gentle ethos of the island to heart, the hotel serves as a sanctuary. With spa treatments available and a choice of six pools to lounge in, there’s always plenty to do. During my stay there

Hotel Volcan in Playa Blanca is a five-star hotel with generous rooms and an impressive facade incorporating a large replica volcano

The volcanic landscape of Playa Blanca

was a healthy mix of families and couples. A separate club area at the hotel provides room and relaxation areas exclusively for adults, especially useful perhaps if you’re looking to leave the kids at home.

There are plenty of great places to eat at Playa Blanca, but for something special make the trip to La Era, which serves delicious authentic Canarian food. Given the soil conditions on Lanzarote, it is not surpris-

ing that the local dishes are relatively simple, but we’ve seen from Manrique’s vision, that keeping things simple is by no means a bad thing. Much of Manrique’s work as an artist involved complementing what nature has already provided and the wholehearted extension of that philosophy to tourism and development throughout the island has created a space naturally warm in every sense of the word.

GETTING THERE: LANZAROTE  The five-star Hotel Volcan in

 Prices include flights, transfers

Playa Blanca is available in May

and accommodation.

from €829 pps on a half board basis, or from €2,553 for a family of four

 Call Thomas Cook on (01) 514 0328,

for seven nights.

or go to www.thomascook.ie

GAZETTE

TRAVEL

26 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 7 February 2013

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gaelic games P31

P27 sportsasdfsdaf awards P28

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

athletics P28

FastSport Glenville refix Beggs’ cup tie:

Sixteen-time world champion Phl “The Power” Taylor will play a special exhibition against Denis Priestly in the Red Cow Moran Hotel on February 17

darts: win the chance to throw a leg against the legendary phil taylor

The Power set to light up the Red Cow at exhibition event HOT on the heels of his record breaking 16th world championships, Phil “The Power” Taylor, the greatest darts player of all time, is set to face off against two time world champion Denis “The Menace” Priestly on Sunday February 17 at the Red Cow Moran Hotel.

The eagerly anticipated event is sure to prove as popular as ever knowing the support of Stoke’s favourite son and the Red Cow are looking forward to hosting the talented tungsten warriors according to their hotel’s Sara Farrell.

“We are extremely excited to see

Phil and Denis in action,” said Farrell.

“There are a lot of people looking forward to the night and with Phil coming off another world championship win, it’s even bigger.

“The Red Cow Moran is well used to putting on top sporting events but, I think the darts is something a little more special – it’s a real people’s sport.

“Every time we have a darts event the crowds turn out in their droves and they really participate in the show and it only helps that Phil and Denis have

such a special relationship with all of the fans.”

The event is to be run in partnership with Pieta House, a suicide awareness group who have close ties with the Moran Hotel Group, with Glen Moran, Limerick’s Man of the Year, walking from Treaty City to Dublin to raise €200,000 for the charity.

“It’s great that we can put on such a good show for the benefit of such a worthy cause and the top fundraisers on the night will be able to play a leg of darts against Phil or Denis.”

GazetteSport is offering a lucky reader the unique opportunity of going toe-totoe with Taylor. All you have to do is answer in 20 words or less, why should you be the lucky person to face world champion Phil Taylor?

To enter, send your answer to competitions@gazettegroup.com. The best answers receive entry to the event and a once in a lifetime opportunity to play against either Taylor; the second best answer will play a leg against Priestly while there are also four pairs of tickets to the event up for grabs.

GLENVILLE’S FAI intermediate cup fourth round tie with Beggsboro has been refixed for Sunday, February 10 in Palmerstown school at 11am following the postponement last week due to the inclement weather.

They are hoping to follow in the footsteps of fellow local sides Phoenix and Bluebell United, both of whom advanced last week.

The former gained revenge on Everton for their defeat last year with John Brophy and Keith Gleeson netting twice while Derek Swan was also on the mark in a 5-0 win.

Bluebell saw off Bandon as Trevor Molloy got the first before Glen Madden grabbed the other to make it 2-0.

c o n ta c t s Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@gazettegroup.com

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

Gazette

28 malahide Gazette 7 February 2013

SPORT

DublinGazetteNewspapers

soccer: dublin man to detail his life in football

2013 dublin sports awards january winners

H STARof the MONTH

Dublin Bus are set to feature heavily in Paul O’Brien’s new book Fairplay

james cluskey THE SWORDS tennis club member had a month to remember, claiming a doubles title in Germany before reaching two other ITF Futures event finals. His month was capped off with a Davis Cup call-up which saw Ireland defeat Estonia.

O’Brien hails local soccer’s stories  sport@gazettegroup.com

TEAMof the MONTH H st joseph’s college, lucan THE LUCAN College broke their A championship duck in incredible fashion as they won the junior title just days before landing the biggest honour in the county at senior level, both first time victories as they saw off St MacDara’s and Maryfield, respectively.

AFTER a life in local soccer, Dubliner Paul O’Brien is currently collating some of his favourite memoirs for his upcoming book, Fairplay.

It comes after a long association with the sport in west Dublin, starting off in Ballyfermot as a 17-year-old coach of small-sided games before going on to link up with Palmerstown Rangers, St Pat’s Athletic and Shamrock Rovers over the next 30 years.

Speaking about the book, O’Brien said: “It has been my intention for a long time to have a book published that would highlight and acknowledge the efforts, achievements and talent of local people that I have been fortunate to work with and befriend over the years.

“The book will incorporate my involvement in local five-a-sides, seven-a-sides and league teams and will feature well-known players, personalities, photos along

with testimonials and interviews.”

To this end, he has no shortage of material with the likes of Celtic man Paul Byrne – whose formative years were with Bluebell – League of Ireland stalwart John Cleary who played in Europe with Dundalk before managing Galway United and St Pat’s.

His brother, Mick, meanwhile, provides tales of exciting times at Athlone Town in the mid1970s when he was the goalkeeper for the club in

the UEFA Cup, keeping a clean sheet against Italian giants AC Milan in the first leg of their tie in St Mel’s Park and lining out in the San Siro stadium.

Dublin Bus hero Paul Doyle also lends his local knowledge to the mix for what looks set to be a fine publication.

The author is seeking sponsorship and donations from people in the area to help finalise the project. If you would like to get in contact and support O’Brien, call 085 285 6402.

DSDAC teenager continues rise on national stage  sport@gazettegroup.com

UCD’s Ciara Everard takes a tumble as Siofra Cleirigh-Buttner (18) closes the gap in the 800m

DSDAC’S Siofra Cleirigh Buttner finished third at the women’s 800m race at the Woodie’s DIY AAI Games in the new Athlone IT indoor arena last week in a fantastic time of 2.05.26.

It was a big personal best for her, bettering Ciara Mageean’s Irish junior record of 2.07.79. It came in a dramatic race as long time leader Ciara Everard hit the deck just metres from the line, and a fraction of a second later Laura Crowe also came tumbling down to leave Germany’s

Jana Hartman the winner in 2.04.14 from Siobhan Eviston in 2.04.35.

It came on a weekend that produced a long list of new personal bests and one new record.

David Sharpe’s 1986 GB junior 1,500m indoor record went by the new Athlone boards when Matthew McLaughlin ran the race of his life to win in a time of 3.42.87, and in the process smashed his own best by taking almost five seconds off his outdoor best.

Kelly Proper showed she is getting back into the swing of

things when she won the 60m in a time of 7.55 from clubmate Niamh Whelan in 7.57.

She made it a double when she won the long jump with 6.04m to make her doubly happy in this amazing arena. Whelan later won the 20m in 24.43 from Fingallians’ Louise Kiernan in 24.76.

Brian Gregan was never threatened in the 400m, cruising through 200m in 21.9 and then holding his form brilliantly to cross the line in 46.07 to smash his previous best of 46.66 and record one of the fastest 400m

times in the world this year.

His time is also well inside the standard for the European Indoor championships, and is the fastest time ever run for an indoors 400m in Ireland. The previous best was held by Grenada’s Alleyne Fancique who clocked 46.19 in Belfast in 2006.

Olympian Robert Heffernan put in another amazing performance when he won the 3,000m walk in a time of 11.13.92, his second fastest time ever for the distance behind his 11.10.02 Irish record achieved in Cardiff 11 years ago.

7 February 2013 MALAHIDE Gazette 29

Gazette

30 malahide gazette 7 February 2013

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: malahide continue club’s fine sfai cup tradition

Fingal duo on the mark in Leinster title success FINGAL duo Andrew Shekleton, pictured right, and Simon McKeever both played their part in helping Leinster’s U-21 men’s hockey team retain the interprovincial title in Hillsborough last weekend.

Both players scored in Friday night’s 6-1 win over Munster, McKeever sweeping home from David Watkins’ sweetly timed cross while Shekleton deflected home from the top of the circle as the blues ran riot in the second half of that tie.

A 3-1 win over the Ireland U-18 side followed on Saturday evening in Banbridge, setting up a Sunday date with Ulster for the ultimate title.

The northern province just needed a draw following their 9-1 win over Munster which put them well clear of Leinster on goal difference.

But the blues produced a brilliant late spell to overturn a 2-1 deficit in the closing nine minutes to win the title.

Shane O’Donoghue struck twice to dramatically swing the U-21 men’s interprovincial title Leinster’s way.

The tournament’s standout player, the senior Irish international was the driving force for the province just when the title looked to be slipping from their grasp.

Ulster looked well set as Stephen Dowds poked home from William Edgar’s heavily deflected cross and Edgar finished off from another top class Dowds’ intervention.

It put them 2-1 with 20 minutes remaining, O’Donoghue having countered with a low reverse from Luke Chadwick’s incisive pass in the 27th minute.

But Ulster did not seem unduly under pressure as Leinster laboured going forward while Mark Ingram pulled off a couple of great stops while Matt Rollins and Matthew Lecky looked in control at the back.

That was until Jeremy Duncan won a first penalty corner with nine minutes remaining which O’Donoghue whipped home low past Michael Anderson’s right boot.

The UCD man got another chance from the set piece three minutes later and again fired low to the left corner for his hat trick and eventual winner.

The Malahide United U-12 side that claimed an impressive victory in Longford last weekend

Moylan United’s hero sfai u-12 cup last 32 Stonepark Malahide United  peter carroll

1 5

sport@gazettegroup.com

MALAHIDE United’s U-12 DDSL side have booked their place in the last 16 of the SFAI AllIreland cup by seeing off Stonepark of Longford after travelling out to play them on their own turf, taking a convincing 5-1 win.

Jack Moylan was in fantastic form on the day bagging a hat trick in another brilliant showing by the talented prospect, but it was his striking

partner Mark Duggan who struck first on the 10-minute mark after some lovely build up play from Sean Gibson, Luke Doherty and Sean Guidan.

Moylan first came via a defence splitting ball from Doherty. He gathered the ball and the young striker fired home a breathtaking finish with the outside of his boot from 20-yards out.

Stonepark, who threatened frequently throughout the half down the left wing, grabbed one of their own from a dead ball situation, with a free kick being converted to

spencer cup final Malahide in the hunt for early season silverware MALAHIDE RFC are looking forward to

trying to land their first silverware of the season when they meet Coolmine in the final of the Spencer Cup this Saturday, 4pm, in Ashbrook.

The lions have been on an incredible league run, winning 11 straight games, including last weekend’s 41-15 success against Roscrea. Coolmine, though, reside two divisions above Malahide, making for a huge test of their mettle.

keep their hopes alive in the second half.

However, two more from Moylan and another from Conor Grant put the Malahide men well out in front when the final whistle was blown and now they will face Cherry Orchard in the last 16 in an all-Dublin affair at Gannon Park.

“It was a great game and I thought the two sides were very evenly matched in the first half,” said Malahide manager Lorcan Mooney.

“Stonepark pushed us hard and they created a lot from the left wing, but our right full back Daire

Nally put in a great display and managed to cut out a lot of the danger.

“We seemed to find our feet in the conditions in the second half, the pitch was quite slippery but the lads adapted to it well and we managed to push on.

“All in all, it was a great experience for the lads to travel to the game and the support we had was great form the families.”

Mooney added that the Longford club were excellent hosts before during and, particularly, after their game.

And his young charges are looking forward to

the next round of the competition.

“I know it will be a tough game and Cherry Orchard have been doing great in the major league.

“They deserve our respect but I think if we play how we have been, we have every chance of getting through to the quarters.

“Obviously with Malahide’s history in the competition, the U-15s winning the competition last year, we’re now looking to continue to keep the rhythm in the tournament and we’ll look to push on against Cherry Orchard.”

7 February 2013 MALAHIDE gazette 31

Gazette

Bannigan delighted with Kickhams win  sport@gazettegroup.com

DESPITE a glut of new faces, St Sylvester’s claimed the St Vincent de Paul Cup last Saturday, beating Leinster champions and All-Ireland semi-finalists, Ballymun Kickhams.

With nearly 10 players making way from the 2012 side in Malahide,

manager Gabriel Bannigan was forced to rotate his panel and declared himself “delighted” with the performances of new and other relatively untested players.

“It was great to see some players get a chance out there and they most certainly delivered on the day. Dominic McDonnell was absolutely superb in

goal and he made a few fantastic saves over the course of the game.

“Fionn Kearney did a great job of taking over from Brian Sexton who marked Dean Rock so well last year and Dave Galvin was every bit as impressive in the backline.

“John Coughlan was back to his best. He’s

had some trouble with injuries in the pre season over the last three or four years, but he had a brilliant game alongside Ross Hazley in the midfield.

“Having Gary available was huge too and in many ways I think the reaction I got from the players was a lot bigger than winning the competition,” said Bannigan.

football: kilmacud edge out st sylvester’s

Club Noticeboard st sylvester’s MINOR A championship final: St Syl-

in the vital matches last year, two

vester’s 0-8, Kilmacud Crokes 0-10. It

defeats but not defeated. Well done

was almost the perfect comeback but

Gabriel and all involved for your per-

time ran out.

severance.

When we did cut loose we fizzed and

The Bank of Ireland sponsored

played some fine football. The great

annual awards night on Saturday was

effort and determination that went

a fantastic occasion, highlighting the

into this campaign meant that the

many and varied successes in 2012.

loss was keenly felt. The journey is

The players who were nominated

the reward and the journey goes on

and the award winners were cele-

with the future of the club safe in the

brated in a stunning presentation by

hands of these great players. It was a

John Keenan. Darragh O’Se spoke elo-

proud day for the club.

quently about his west Kerry roots.

St Vincent de Paul Cup Final 2012:

John Skinner Ryan received the Hall of

Ballymun Kickams 0-14, St Sylvester’s

Fame award to a rapturous reception

1-12. What a great start to the year,

and John Comey received the clubman

a cup final victory over the current

of the year award for his unstinting

Dublin and Leinster champions.

contribution over many years. We

This was well deserved after the two heartbreaking single score defeats

are standing on their shoulders. Mile buiochas.

naomh mearnog OVER 200 people attended our chair-

The club would like to welcome PJ

to the hard work of the organising

O’Donoghue on board as our new

committee, it was a great success.

senior camogie manager. PJ comes

Thank you to GAA President Liam

with an impressive CV and we are

O’Neill and Dublin county board

looking forward to an exciting sea-

chairman Andy Kettle for attending.

son. The camogie section is running

We would also like to thank all our

a fashion show on March 8. All major

sponsors.

shops and boutiques will be exhibit-

The following were our award

Crokes cling on in epic minor finale

winners: hall of fame, Gabriel Cos-

MAFC final

St Sylvester’s Oisin O’Toole finds his path blocked by a pair of Kilmacud Crokes’ players

Kilmacud Crokes 0-10 St Sylvester’s 0-8  sport@gazettegroup.com

THE FINAL whistle celebrations proved a measure of the shock St Sylvester’s gave Kilmacud Crokes last Sunday in Chanel as they almost pulled off one of the unlikeliest of comebacks.

Dara Mullin and David Campbell’s combined efforts in the early stages of the second half looked to have drained the life from the Malahide side, the latter proving a go-to totem in full-forward, making plenty of ball

stick despite the slippery conditions.

They helped build a 0-10 to 0-3 lead with less than six minutes of normal time remaining of a tempestuous match, filled with commitment and aggression.

But Syl’s piled forward in the closing phases with Mark Hazley often the guiding light while David Sexton started to slot the scores as his side won a slew of late frees in inviting positions.

He nailed three of them along with a 45 from Eoin O’Byrne to reduce the gap to within three by the turn of the hour.

And they had two more chances to drop in dangerous ball into the square from frees but Conor Ferries remained unmoved between the posts while the defensive numbers only conceded a fortuitously pointed effort from the fist of Jack Hazley in the last melee, kick-starting Crokes’ wild celebrations.

It was a conclusion that scarcely looked in the offing as Kilmacud controlled much of the middle phases of the game. Oisin O’Rorke provided some neat incisions while Shane Cunningham’s raking diagonal passes

were a feature throughout.

But defences were primarily on top in the first half, one which ended 0-5 to 0-2 in Crokes’ favour.

Mark Hazley’s powerful point started the second period in an upbeat mode but it took another 24 minutes for his side to score again while Mullin and Campbell made hay.

They shared the next five points to move into what looked an unassailable position. They clung on in the end, fulfilling the promise that saw them follow-through on Feile success four years ago.

morning at 11am in a cup game.

man’s Dinner on Saturday night. Due

ing. Contact Donal Power for more information.

grove; club person of the year, Peter

Congratulations to Patsy Haran

O’Donovan; young club person of the

who was recently honoured by Coiste

year, Niall Murphy. Special contribu-

Sean Gael for his lifelong contribution

tion awards: Frances Dillon, camogie,

to the club and to the GAA.

and Michael Walshe, ladies football.

Congratulations to all of you.

The juvenile season commenced on Saturday with a win for our U-13 team. Our U-14 team drew.

Well done to Kevin O’Brien and Shane Carthy who both featured for Dublin footballers in their win over Cork.

The club lotto jackpot is now head-

The adult football season gets

ing for €5,000. You can play online or

under way next weekend with our

you can get your ticket in the bar.

senior footballers at home on Sunday

Draw takes every Sunday night.

fingallians YES, the rumours are true. Strictly

8516210, email strictly@fingallians.

Come Dancing is coming to Fingallians.

com or talk to any of the team men-

Your club is organising a major fun-

tors.

draising event this spring and we’re

Swords Credit Union and Fingallians

looking for both dancers and organis-

are looking for your assistance as we

ers.

are currently making a list of business

Even if you have absolutely no expe-

premises where the public can access

rience of dancing but would love to

a defibrillator and the hours of avail-

take part in what is a great experi-

ability. This will shortly be available on

ence, having a bit of fun doing some-

both websites. Please contact fingal-

thing you never thought you could do,

lians@gmail.com or darren@sword-

and most importantly raise money for

scu.ie if you wish to add a location to

your club, we need you to dance.

our listing.

If you can help with printing, market-

Club membership is now overdue.

ing, selling, helping or organising, we

Please log on to www.fingallians.com

need your help.

for a form or call to the clubhouse any

Either way, contact Oisin on 086

evening.

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

february 7, 2013

the power: national treasures: Malahide United U-12 side Fight Win a chance to play a leg march forth in the SFAI All-Ireland competition P30 against Phil Taylor P27

St Sylvester’s Nigel Dunne celebrates the club’s St Vincent de Paul Cup win last weekend

Syl’s counfound odds At contrasting ends of the preparation scale, St Sylvester’s senior footballers got one over on high flying Ballymun Kickhams in the Vincent de Paul Cup final  peter carroll

sport@gazettegroup.com

DESPITE Ballymun Kickhams being heavy favourites going into the St Vincent de Paul final last weekend, St Sylvester’s have been a particular thorn in the All-Ireland club semi-finalists’ side, taking the victory in hard fought battle, 0-14 to 1-12 last Saturday.

Indeed, Syl’s are certainly the team Kickhams want to avoid with a record of three wins and one draw in their last four outings against the Leinster champions who are otherwise unbeaten.

Malahide manager Gabriel Bannigan explained how although he did have some

doubts as to whether his men could handle the pace, the availability of some players made a big difference on the day, signing off from the club in style.

“I knew Ballymun would be flying fit with the semi-final of the All-Ireland coming up,” said Bannigan.

“We’re only in pre-season training and the only challenge match we had was against Ballyboden in the middle of a hurricane.

“Darren Clarke and Padraig Bracken rang Croke Park who determined they were still eligible for selection, Mark Brennan could play due to his suspension for Louth and Gary Sweeney was made available by Dublin.

“It was probably the first time I’ve gone into a game not expecting to win but this team love to compete.

“Although I was surprised at the time, I knew we could put it up to them again – they must be sick of playing us,” said the manager.

With Bannigan’s record against the dominant Dublin team, the coach could be fielding calls from Dr Crokes, Kickhams semifinal opposition in the All-Ireland, on a formula to beat Dean Rock and Co. “Ballymun are obviously an excellent team and to be honest, every game we play against them is won with the last kick of the game.

“The hallmark of the team is their fitness and their hard work in all areas of the field and even though we are only in pre-season at the moment, I think our side’s fitness from last year carried across.

“Any team that wants to beat Ballymun have to be able to match them for stamina and industry and I think that we put such a focus on that last season that it really helped us last Saturday.

“I’m absolutely delighted with the result and the performance that the lads put in.

“With a lot of players going to be coming in from the minor ranks it’s exactly the type of confidence boost we needed to bring us into the new campaign.”