Malahide

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Little Green Cars are in the fast lane to success in 2013 see page 22 February 14, 2013 Find us on

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: Feeling the love at a very special Valentine’s Day in Tayto Park P8

Rugby:

Malahide push Coolmine all the way in cup finals Page 30

Soccer:

Sammon lines out for Irish senior debut Page 32

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES................... 6-7 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................27

2012

all the answers : Local schools make progress in Credit Union quiz Page 2

TD seeks action on cemetery dumping  Natalie burke

A LABOUR TD for Dublin North East has this week condemned the dumping of household litter at Balgriffin Cemetery and has called on Fingal County Council to take immediate action.

Sean Kenny TD said he has been contacted by a number of residents expressing their concern at the amount, and type, of dumping taking

place at the cemetery.

In response to Deputy Kenny’s concerns, a spokesperson for FCC said that the site where the illegal littering is taking place “appears to be on private property”.

“In such circumstances, our litter wardens would contact the landowner and advise them of the situation,” the spokesperson said.

Full Story on Page 3

Sweet success: St Oliver Plunkett’s students shine in big cake bake-off Cian Russell from St Oliver

Plunkett’s School holds the cake he baked for his school’s annual Bunanza. The event was a wonderful success as usual and raised almost €2,200 for their school equipment fund.

Cian and his classmates really impressed Oliver Dunne, chef and proprietor of Bon Appetit who judged the cake competition, which featured an array of designs.

Full Gallery on Pages 6-7

2 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 14 February 2013

DUBLIN GAZETTE WINNERS Two Malahide teams go for glory NEWSPAPERS I N F O R M AT I O N 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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St Oliver Plunkett School Junior Winners James Lynch, Darragh Timmons, Colm Nicholl, Nikki Lynch with Malahide Credit Union secretary Alan Kelly and Pope John Paul II NS senior winners Ella Armstrong, Cameron Mowatt, Kaie Le Hane and David Seagrave (inset)

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Pupils make second stage of credit union schools quiz PUPILS from a number of local schools in Malahide have battled it out in this year’s credit union schools quiz and are set to take the next step in the competition.

Following the launch of the Credit Union Schools Quiz 2013, several primary schools in Malahide and the surrounding district took part in the first stage of the nationwide competition.

Parents, teachers, friends and family-supported pupils from St Oliver Plunkett School, Pope John Paul II National School and St Andrew’s National School battled it out for the winning prizes

 NATALIE BURKE nburke@gazettegroup.com

and a place in the second stage of the quiz.

The senior team from Pope John Paul II NS and the junior team from St Oliver Plunkett School were successful on the night, and were both presented with their winners’ plaque.

The event was organised by Malahide Credit Union and was held at St Sylvester’s

GAA Club last week.

The annual quiz, which is now one of the most popular events in the school calendar, attracts about 25,000 participants from across Ireland. Now in its 22nd year, the event is run throughout the winter months in over 300 venues in towns and communities nationwide and is run by volunteers from over 487 Irish League of Credit Unionsaffiliated credit unions.

Head to head

T h e t wo w i n n i n g Malahide teams will go head to head with other credit union level finalists from the Chapter 20

area, which is primarily north County Dublin.

The winners of this quiz will then go through to the national final in the RDS in April.

With the aim of encouraging teamwork among young school children under the age of 13 years, the quiz questions are taken from the primary curriculum and prepared by primary school teachers covering topics such as geography, history, music, literature and sport. The quiz consists of two knock out stages at local and regional level and culminates in a national final where 100 qualifying

teams compete.

Commenting on the first stage of the competition, Malahide Credit Union manager Vivienne Keavey said: “It’s important for us as an organisation to invest in the future of our communities with the youth of today. This annual event not only presents a wonderful opportunity for the students to have fun, but serves to remind parents and teachers of the great benefits of educating children about money, helping them to develop strong saving habits and teaching them about the value of investing in their future.”

Council calling all lifeguards to apply for summer work FINGAL County Council are calling on lifeguards to apply for work on Fingal beaches this summer.

Lifeguard cover is to be provided at a number of Fingal beaches on a weekend basis only from June 1 until September 1 this year.

It is envisaged that weekday cover will commence from July 1 until September 1, depending on staffing levels and weather.

Beaches that the council intend to provide guard cover for include Balbriggan (front beach), Skerries South and Skerries

North, Loughshinny, Rush South and Rush North, The Brook and Tower Bay in Portrane, Donabate, Malahide, Portmarnock, Sutton Burrow Road and Claremont, Howth.

Applicants for the lifeguard positions must be not less than

17 years old on March 1, 2013.

Application forms and further details can be obtained on the Irish Water Safety’s website at www.iws.ie.

The closing date for applications is 4.30pm on March 1. For enquiries ring 01 890 5891.

14 February 2013 MALAHIDE Gazette 3

kinsealy

Balgriffin: constituents voice concern at amount of rubbish

TD wants action on cemetery dumping

No go for left-turn only at junction

A Labour TD for Dublin North East has this week condemned the dumping of household litter at Balgriffin Cemetery on the Malahide Road.

Sean Kenny TD said he deplored the dumping of household waste at the local cemetery earlier this week. He is calling on Fingal County Council to take immediate action.

“Constituents have contacted me expressing their concern at the incredible amount, and type, of dumping taking place at the old Balgriffin cemetery, which has been occurring on and off for the past two years,” he said.

“I have called on Fingal County Council to take immediate action to

Cllr Anthony Lavin (FG) has said he is disappointed with the council’s decision not to create a left-turn only instruction at a busy junction in Kinsealy.

The proposal to introduce the change at the left turn from Church Road onto the Malahide Road was raised

by Cllr Lavin, who said that right-turning cars caused traffic issues.

According to Fingal County Council, the proposal was examined by the traffic division which reported that due to there being “no suitable diversion route” for right-turning traffic, implementing the change was not recommended.

remove the dumped litter and to install CCTV cameras to catch the culprits.”

Deputy Kenny raised the issue following a number of queries he received from concerned local residents living in the nearby area and those visiting the cemetery.

One such resident referred to the dumping as a “truly appalling situation” in a letter he recently wrote to Deputy Kenny.

The resident wrote: “Both the amount and type of litter dumped is incredible and to my mind equates to at least two full council truck loads.”

The resident also stated that used syringes were to be found amongst the rubbish piles. Pictures

taken by the resident include evidence of usedsyringes, alongside empty alcohol containers and cardboard boxes.

“The really sad thing about all of this is that this problem has pre-existed for the past two or three years now and is rapidly deteriorating,” the resident added.

In response to Deputy Kenny’s concerns, a spokesperson for Fingal County Council said that the site where the illegal littering is taking place “appears to be on private property”.

“In such circumstances our litter wardens would contact the landowner and advise them of the situation,” the spokesperson said.

Fair play: New initiative has women’s leadership at its heart pictured at City Wall Space Wood Quay for the launch of The

Y Factor, the new National Women’s Council of Ireland youth initiative were, from left, music journalist Una Mullally, rap artist Temper-Mental MissElayneous and Aoife Campbell, all members of the National Women’s Council Y Factor project which was launched in Dublin over the weekend.

The Y Factor project aims to empower and support young people to become leaders for women’s equality. For more information see www.yfactor.ie .

4 MALAHIDE Gazette 14 February 2013

R1

film feast Highlights to include display of latest technology and equipment

Movie makers alerted to Fingal festival deadline Following a successful year in 2012, the Fingal Film Festival has already announced its deadline for submissions for what is expected to be another premier event in 2013.

The much-anticipated festival will take place from May 8 to 10, with the deadline for

submissions being Friday, March 15.

The festival team are already viewing content for this year’s festival, which is due to take place at the Odeon Cinema and the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown.

As well as traditional events, new highlights for the festival

will include a showcase of the latest technology and equipment demonstrated by industry professionals.

A new networking event will also provide filmmakers with a chance to meet with fellow artistic and technical creatives.

Also being introduced at

the 2013 festival is the new Student Award, which is open to short films and documentaries, as well as a feedback option, where submitted films can receive comments on their project.

This year, Oscar-nominated Dublin company Brown Bag Films is supporting the festi-

val by facilitating two animation workshops designed specifically for young filmmakers with a passion for animation.

Managing director of the festival Liz Kenny says organisers will be announcing “an amazing line-up” of industry professionals who will be facilitating this year’s workshops. “We are

Congrats: Credit union ceremony

FastNews

Choir seeking new members

over 50 credit union staff assembled at the brand new state-of-the-art offices of Finglas Credit Union recently, for a Dublin-based ceremony to celebrate graduating the Advanced Certificate in Credit Union Practice (ACCUP), a university accredited training programme. Pictured are (back, l-r) Martin Sisk, Bryan O’Flaherty, Stephen MacDonagh and graduates Caroline McDonnell and Lucia Kane, (front, l-r) graduates Aileen Lawlor, Kathleen Jennings with Vivienne Keavey

St Sylvester’s Church Choir is seeking new members.

The choir is a four-part choir which sings in the church every Sunday.

The group also occasionally sings at concerts and other special occasions locally.

Choir rehearsals take place on Monday evenings at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall. For more details, call 01 845 1244.

Spring term at Water Babies Water Babies have commenced their spring term of classes in Fingal.

The baby swimming class teaches vital water confidence and safety skills from birth, while teaching parents to teach their baby how to swim.

Classes are held in Roganstown Hotel, Swords on Mondays and Saturdays.

For further details, phone 01 824 9987, or visit www.waterbabies.ie.

advising people to keep an eye on the website, as places for these workshops are limited and will fill up fast.”

All filmmakers are encouraged to submit their work as early as possible. For more information on how to submit your film, please visit www.fingalfilmfest.com.

transport: long-awaited works should help reduce traffic in estate

€575k allocated to complete Holywell distributor road  natalie burke nburke@gazettegroup.com

Dublin North could see the long-awaited completion of the Holywell distributor road this year, with funding of €575,000 being allocated to the project as part of the Sustainable Transport Investment Programme.

The news comes with the announcement that a total of €4.1 million will be provided to Fingal in order to fund a number of projects in the area, including a feasibility study for a possible cycleway between Malahide

and Donabate train stations.

Brendan Ryan, Labour Party TD for Dublin North, has welcomed funding, saying the money will finance important projects in the area.

“The funding for the Holywell distributor link road is vitally important and long overdue,” he said.

“The €575,000 allocated will complete the missing section of distributor road and roundabout that will link up the two existing sections of the distributor road to the north of and west of Holywell housing development in Swords.”

The provision of the distributor road will complete the road network in the Holywell area, which is hoped to remove traffic from the residential core of the neighbourhood, provide more appropriate routing for bus services and enable traffic improvement measures in the vicinity of the school and local shops.

“Holywell is a lovely development with a young population and an active residents association. The development is blighted by heavy traffic from many commuters who use the estate as a rat

run to get to and from the M1. Once this distributor road is complete, it should remove the vast majority of traffic from the centre of Holywell,” Ryan continued.

Construction

The construction on the distributor road is due to start later this year, with an estimated completion date in 2014.

“The funding pot also includes money for the Swords quality bus corridor improvements, Drinan/Holywell cycle links and the construction of a traffic signalised junction

in Lusk at Station Rd/ Dublin Rd/Main St and other projects. All this investment is a boost for our county and signals the importance this Government places on continued infrastructure improvement,” he concluded.

With some of the funding due to go towards the feasibility study for the potential cycleway between Malahide and Donabate, Fingal County Council have said they have made “significant progress” on what they call the Broadmeadow Way project.

According to the coun-

cil, environmental and engineering consultants are currently compiling an Environmental Impact Statement which will be submitted to An Bord Pleanala for the project.

The update was welcomed by Cllr Eoghan O’Brien (FF) who said: “I appreciate the level of work that goes on behind the scenes. I know people locally are asking what’s happening and I try and get across the painstaking nature of getting it right. I look forward to further reports and hopefully its progress into the future.”

14 February 2013 MALAHIDE Gazette 5

community Final drawings are widely welcomed

Autumn start date mooted for Kinsealy centre  NATALIE BURKE nburke@gazettegroup.com

Kinsealy could be set to see construction of a brand new community centre begin in early autumn, according to Fingal County Council.

The announcement was made at a recent area committee meeting when the council indicated their intentions to present the final design drawings to residents of the local area in the coming weeks.

Work on the preparation of tender documents is ongoing, according to

a spokesperson for the council, who said: “At this stage, it is difficult to indicate an expected start date for construction but assuming nothing unforeseen occurs it could be early autumn.”

Explaining the delay in the long-awaited and much needed community centre project, the spokesperson said that due to pressure of work in other areas, it was not possible to assign staff fulltime to the project until recently.

“In the interim, the Baptist Centre has opened

and has already begun to engage with the local community and school, with both using the meeting rooms and other facilities available in the Riasc Centre. This increasing activity will enhance the overall impact of the campus approach which will be complemented by the sports facilities to be provided.”

Local Cllr Eoghan O’Brien (FF) welcomed the announcement by the council saying it was “good to hear that progress is being made”.

“We’re coming towards

Cllr Peter Coyle (Lab): “We certainly look forward to the community centre being completed”

the end game in this very long process so it’s incumbent on the council to make sure that the residents on the ground are kept in the loop in as much as they possibly can be. Hopefully there won’t be any other delays.

“The early autumn target can be met, I’m sure,”

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he added.

Cllr Anthony Lavin (FG) also welcomed the report, saying he was glad to see that progress was being made. “I’m glad to see there are now full-time staff involved with the project and engaging with the residents association and, hopefully, we will

see things start in early autumn as suggested.”

Cllr Peter Coyle (Lab) agreed with his fellow councillors, saying: “I know it was expected sooner but I’m glad to see it reaching this stage. We certainly look forward to the community centre being completed.”

review Beach may get Blue Flag Local Cllr Peter Coyle (Lab) has expressed his delight with the announcement that the beach at Portmarnock will be put forward for the much coveted Blue Flag status this year.

The news comes following the initial indication that the beach would not retain its status, due to an error made in the original statistical analysis.

However, the amendment of the report now states that the reviewed calculations for Portmarnock Beach will be re-submitted to An Taisce for consideration for a Blue Flag for 2013.

“I am pleased that Portmarnock may now receive a Blue Flag for the fourth year in a row,” Cllr Coyle said.

6 MALAHIDE Gazette 14 February 2013

gazetteGALLERIES

Nora O’Dea, Maeve Maguire and Olive O’Connor. Pictures: Una Williams

good morning: raising cups to sustain education worldwide

A

Elena Brady with her Angry Bird cake

coffee morning and raffle were held in Malahide recently in aid of a worldwide education initiative, Global Schoolroom. Local Malahide resident Mary Killen hosted the coffee morning in advance of her charitable journey to India this summer to work as a volunteer tutor.

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.

Milly McCarthy and Ava O’Callaghan. Pictures: Una Williams

Deirdre Moore Sommers, Fiona and Corban Cooke

Marie Tolan, Ann Howerty and Mary O’Brien

Siobhan O’Sullivan and Ide Nic Domhnaill Aoife O’Connor

Sarah and Alex Fogarty

Maya Chalasani made

Elaine Sanfey, Maria Farren and Noreen Keane

a cake in the shape of a Harry Ennis and Cormac Ryan

ladybird

14 February 2013 MALAHIDE Gazette 7

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Hannah Collins

Cian Russell

Ellen Dullaghan and Nikki Lynch

delicious: UNIQUE CAKE DESIGNS GO DOWN A TREAT AT BAKE SALE

Just desserts for all at confection Bunanza P

UPILS from St Oliver Plunkett’s National School rolled up their sleeves and baked some uniquely designed cakes for the recent school bake sale.

Their annual Bunanza was a wonderful success as usual and raised almost €2200.00 for their school equip-

ment fund. The standard of entries for the design a cake competition was extremely high and Oliver Dunne chef and proprietor of Bon Appetit who judged the cake competition was really impressed. Congratulations to all the winners.

Ben Mooney made a cake in the shape of a skateboard (right)

Christine Hughes

8 MALAHIDE Gazette 14 February 2013

fun Meet some kids and a‘one-woman’ bird

A new arrival into Tayto Park this February are these kids from the African pygmy goats

Feel the love and enjoy a day at Tayto Park  natalie burke

It seems that more than just human couples are celebrating Valentine’s Day this weekend, with news that love is certainly in the air at Tayto Park this month.

With the park offering a romantic setting for its animals this February, head-keeper Lee Donoghue has offered an insight into the breeding patterns of some of its most popular and lovedup animals.

Tayto Park plays host to a large variety of rare and endangered species and experiences its busiest month for breeding in February, according to Lee. “It is always exciting at this time of year at Tayto Park when the keepers are keeping a close eye on their charges. Sometimes we know straight away if a female is pregnant – and other times it’s a waiting game to see if our predictions will actu-

Black swans

ally happen,” he said.

One of the park’s residents, the red-crowned crane is the second rarest crane in the world and is listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.

“The male red-crowned crane is a one-woman bird and due to their monogamous nature, they are seen as Japan’s symbol of love and fidelity. During breeding season, they display a courtship dance, which involves bowing, head bobbing and leaping as

Meerkat pups

forms of communication,” said Liam.

There are a number of big cats at Tayto Park including the near extinct Amur leopards, as well as mountain lions and ocelots. In September 2012, a beautiful fishing cat female cub was born at Tayto Park much to the delight of her parents and indeed everyone at Tayto Park.

Staff at Tayto Park believe that the female Jaguarundi, which is found in Central and South America, is expecting a kitten early in the year.

Red-crowned cranes

“The family of 11 meerkats is one of the most popular animal attractions and moved to a new enclosure in January. Last year, four tiny inquisitive pups arrived in July and more pups are expected this year. Female meerkats are able to produce all year round, however, in a family pack it is only the dominant alpha male and female that breed,” he said.

Another new arrival into Tayto Park in February are kids from the African pygmy goats along with lambs, pheasants,

chicks and ducklings and the next few months at Tayto Park is expected to be full of new arrivals.

The most interesting of all animals in this month of love, however, is the Bennett Wallabies, according to Lee. Pregnancy lasts just 30 days with only ever one joey being born. It is always less than 1 gram and Lee says it is “the size of a jellybean”.

For more information on the full range of attractions at Tayto Park, see www.taytopark.ie or call 01 835 1999.

14 February 2013 MALAHIDE Gazette 9

charity

2013 will be fourth year for North Dublin to host youngsters

Drive to raise funds for Chernobyl children begins  natalie burke

The North Dublin Chernobyl Children International group has officially started its fundraising drive for 2013.

The group will be hosting a group of children affected by

the Chernobyl disaster for the month of July and is currently raising money to help fund the visit.

This will be the fourth year in a row for the children to visit Dublin North and stay with volunteer host families

across the area. It is believed that a month away from their contaminated homes with fresh air, food and water will afford them two years of health on their return home.

The group recently held

a Big Spring Clean donation day in the Rolestown/ Oldtown area where people generously donated unwanted Christmas gifts, clothes and toys to the cause.

The group’s annual charity sale will take place at St

Patrick’s Parochial Hall in Donabate on Sunday, February 24 from 11am to 4 pm. Last year’s event raised nearly €3,000 in much needed funds. All funds raised will help pay transport costs for the children and for

necessities while they are in Ireland.

For more information on this event or on the North Dublin CCI, contact chairperson Trina Gilchriest on 087 996 9864 or email trinagilchriest@hotmail.com.

New garden of honour is a ‘fitting tribute’ to Amy The 21st birthday of missing Amy Fitzpatrick has been marked by the opening of a new garden of honour at her former primary school.

Amy’s mother Audrey, her stepfather Dave, former teachers and present pupils gathered at the opening at St Catherine’s National School in Artane last week as Lord Mayor Naoise O’Muiri (FG) cut the ribbon on the garden.

Amy, who originally hailed from Clarehall, was only 16 years of age when she went missing from her fam-

The council says that the proposed increase in county councillors would not result in an increase in staffing payroll costs

report: seating extra councillors is expensive

Council seats refit put at €20k each

It will cost an estimated €15,000 to €20,000 for each additional seat in the Council Chamber in Swords, Fingal County Council announced this week.

To c o p e w i t h t h e expected increase in the number of local councillors from 24 to 40 under the Putting People First local government reform document, the council confirmed that the estimated cost of refitting the Council Chamber in Swords could be between €15,000 and €20,000 per seat.

According to a report issued to local representatives at a council meeting held earlier this week, the architects department of the council has convened a project team in order to examine the issue of accommodating additional councillors within existing facilities.

The report confirmed that the design work was at an early stage and work is currently being carried out on the project brief. Consultations are also ongoing with the IT and corporate services departments.

“At this stage no firm costings have been calculated but it would not be unreasonable to put a projected cost of €15,000 to €20,000 per additional seat for the County Hall Chamber,” the report stated.

Given the capacity of the Baldoyle chamber, the council stated that it would be likely that a change of venue for meetings may be considered, perhaps to Malahide library.

With extra costs expected to be incurred, Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) says there is no need for

Fingal County Council to increase to 40 councillors.

“We cope very well at present with 24. Residents want extra services and extra resources, not extra councillors,” he said.

The council also confirmed that the proposed increase in county councillors would not result in an increase in staffing payroll costs.

“Due to the current moratorium on recruitment, no additional staff will be recruited for this purpose,” the report read.

ily’s Costa del Sol home in 2008.

Fine Gael TD Terence Flanagan welcomed the opening of the garden saying the gesture was a “fitting tribute” to Amy. “The search for Amy has been ongoing now for some time and I know that this has been a very difficult time for all of her family. I’m happy that the school has constructed this garden to provide a permanent tribute to Amy and a place to reflect and remember her.”

10 MALAHIDE Gazette 14 February 2013

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Team Ireland’s Gary Burton with his parents Michael and Mary, and his brothers Darragh and Dale

Team Ireland’s Gary Burton from Sallynoggin, County Dublin

Making the moment gold at the Special Olympics T

EAM Ireland did us proud abroad as they earned themselves numerous medals competing in the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games held at Pyeongchang in South Korea.

Katherine Daly from Dalkey, County Dublin won a sil-

ver medal in the novice grade giant slalom, and Rosalind Connolly from Portadown, County Armagh won a gold medal in another final at the same division.

Gary Burton, from Sallynoggin, County Dublin competed in the intermediate giant slalom and won a gold medal.

Team Ireland’s Katherine Daly from Dalkey and

Team Ireland’s Gary Burton is congratulated by medical officer Julie Dwyer

Rosalind Connolly from Portadown, County Armagh

after competing in the intermediate giant slalom

Pat Savill from Mayfield in Cork whose son played on the floorball team

Team Ireland’s Katherine Daly, from Dalkey

14 February 2013 Gazette 11

feature P13

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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non-profit: Ulster Bank Community Impact Fund

New €75k grant now open to voluntary organisations A new €175,000 grant fund is now open for application by all voluntary and community organisations in Ireland.

The Ulster Bank Community Impact Fund was announced last week and has been developed through a partnership between Ulster Bank, The Community Foundation for Ireland and The Community Foundation for Northern Ireland.

The Ulster Bank Com-

munity Impact Fund is open to all non-profit, voluntary and community based organisations to support the development of local enterprise activity, financial education and financial inclusion initiatives.

Successful applicants will be awarded individual grants ranging between €1,000 to €40,000.

Applications to the fund will be shortlisted by The Community Foun-

dation for Ireland and assessed by the Community Impact Fund judging panel.

Speaking at the launch, David Thomas, managing director of Ulster Bank’s corporate banking division, said: “This is another step in our long-standing relationship with The Community Foundation for Ireland in our support of communities and individuals across the country.

Specifically the fund will

enable voluntary organisations enhance financial education programmes and foster enterprise in turn creating a more vibrant and progressive economy.”

The application process is open until March 8 and successful organisations will be informed in April.

For information log on to www.communityfoundation.ie/our-grants/applyfor-ulster-bank-community-impact-grants.

The €175,000 Ulster Bank Community Impact Fund has been announced by David Thomas, managing director of Ulster Bank’s Corporate Banking Division, and Jackie Harrison, fund development associate at The Community Foundation for Ireland

Gazette

12 Gazette 14 February 2013

dublinlife

diary

Bid to revolutionise student cooking Late-night kebabs and microwaveable meals are just a few of the staples which feature heavily in the average Irish student’s diet, but these culinary crimes have inspired one food company to attempt to revolutionise student cooking this spring.

Italian food brand Sacla are on the hunt for a special Dublin resident – an Italian mother – to help educate students and prepare them for life away from Piera Campanelle Ercole who founded the Italian home.

Any Italian mothers food brand Sacla She must have pasinterested in applying, sion and a flair for cooking, in order to who will receive a fee for their time, be able teach the city’s students about should send a photo, a picture of their the joys and benefit of creating deli- kitchen and the reasons they would cious dishes. like to take part, to samantha.craw-

ford@taylorherring.com.

a look at the lives of healers on Rte A faith healing documentary set to air on RTE in April is currently

looking for contributions from the people of Dublin.

In the forthcoming programme, the Maccana Teoranta production company will be exploring the many aspects to the tradition of faith healing and will look at the lives of healers, the healed, as well as exploring the understandings of what it is.

Ireland has witnessed a huge change in the traditional following of both the Catholic and Protestant faiths, but one element of spirituality and faith remains strong and that is healing.

The documentary is looking for information from people who have had an encounter with a healer, those who heal or those who have a story to share.

Contact ShaunaMacanna@ gmail.com.

jobs expo makes a return to dublin The Jobs Expo is returning to Dublin this weekend following its huge success in recent years.

This year, organisers are promising an even bigger array of jobs for future employees, as companies from Ireland and abroad compete over the weekend for the cream of Irish jobseekers.

Among the employers lined up are Sky Ireland, who are looking to fill 600 positions, the Department of Health Western Australia, which will be recruiting doctors, nurses and health professionals, and Hourglass Education Recruitment for primary and secondary school teachers.

The exhibition features Irish and international job opportunities, free career clinics and topical seminars.

It runs on February 16 and 17 from 11am until 5pm in The Hogan Suite in Croke Park.

14 February 2013 Gazette 13

FEATURE Eurovision acts are announced

DONATION: PARKING FEE FIRM BACKS CHARITY

Easytrip to raise funds for Irish Guide Dogs Easytrip has announced a charity campaign to raise muchneeded funds for the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGDB).

The electronic toll and parking payment service provider will donate €5 to IGDB for every new Easytrip account opened between now and March 31.

The campaign kicked off at the East Link and Dublin Port Tunnel toll plazas on February 4.

Motorists can pick up a leaflet when passing through these plazas and sign up at www.easytrip.

ie or lo call 1890 67 67 68 until March 31.

Speaking at the launch of the initiative, Dermot MacEvilly, chief executive officer of Easytrip Services Ireland, said: “Easytrip is committed to supporting the friends and families of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.

“These dedicated caregivers commit themselves to helping people who are blind and vision impaired, and also families of children with autism, to achieve improved mobility and independence.

“We are proud to be announcing this fund-

raising campaign and hope it can contribute to the continued success of the charity. This is only the beginning of what we hope will become a flourishing partnership with Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind into the future,” said MacEvilly.

Also commenting on the campaign, Padraig Mallon, chief executive of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, said: “We are delighted that Easytrip have chosen us for this promotion. Our staff uses the tags as they travel the country to support our clients and volunteers.

“We know how convenient and cost effective the Easytrip facility is and would recommend that all motorists who use tolled roads should open an account. When you do, you will be helping us to train and support people who are vision impaired and families of children with autism, everyone wins, now that’s a good deal,” Mallon added.

To find out more on this fundraising initiative check out www.easytrip. ie or for more details about Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind log on to www.guidedogs.ie

Jim Geraghty, Eastlink operations manager, with Dermot MacEvilly, chief executive officer, Easytrip Services Ireland, guide dog Kirby and Sinead O’Keeffe, commercial manager, Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind

RTE have confirmed the five acts bidding for a place to represent the nation in the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest.

The five Irish acts are Zoe Alexis Bohorquez, Ryan Dolan, Aimee Fitzpatrick, Inchequin and Kasey.

The public got a chance to hear each of the five songs for the first time on Mooney on RTE Radio 1 last Thursday.

Last November, RTE nominated five mentors who each worked with an act and a song which they believe could be a Eurovision winner.

The winning act will be selected on Eurosong 2013 on The Late Late Show on February 22.

Gazette

14 Gazette 14 February 2013

dublinlife

schoolLife

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.

schools

st finian’s: students visit port authority offices

Getting all-access to Dublin Port  Samantha Jakstonyte, Nicole Hanratty and Jennifer Evbakhavbokun St Finian’s Community College

On February 4, 2013, the fifth year Leaving Cert Vocational Programme (LCVP) students from St Finian’s Community College went on a guided tour of Dublin Port, organised by Michael Mooney, the LCVP coordinator, organised the visit with head of human resources Pat Ward. The Port Authority were very generous with their time on the day, the students accessed all areas and were treated like VIPs. They first visited Dublin Port Authority head

office and were shown a video of the history and importance of the port in Ireland – its past, present and future.

Charlie Murphy, community liaison and media officer at Dublin Port, spoke to the students.

He has worked at the port his whole life and is passionate about the port and the local community. He has a wealth of knowledge and stayed with the students all day to answer questions.

The students were then brought to the Customs Office within the port to see how they operate. They were shown another short film about all aspects

St Finian’s fifth year students taking a tour of Dublin Port. Picture: Clara Kinsella

of customs control in Ireland – from sea, air and land. For the students, the most exciting part was seeing the portable X-ray machine which can x-ray a truck or container without opening it. The students

then met Molly the sniffer dog who demonstrated her expertise by detecting planted counterfeit money carried by an employee mingling amongst the students.

Finally, the students were driven around the

vast port before touring the Harbour Masters Control Centre. This is where all the ships are monitored and controlled in and out of the port.

The students had very positive feedback. Sami Bouakkaz commented: “Customs was fascinating, I never thought about how difficult it is to monitor illegal goods and substances coming into an island. The Customs Office do an amazing job considering the challenges they face” This was another excellent opportunity for LCVP students to see the world at work and make contacts with business.

14 February 2013 Gazette 15

FEATURE Donate unwanted goods

aontas: promoting adult learning

Festival sets out to prove you're never too old to learn  bairbre ni Bhraonain

bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

AONTAS (National Education Through Voluntary Unification) Adult Learners Festival 2013 starts on February 25 and ends on March 2 and adult education groups throughout the country are being encouraged to get involved by setting up an event based around a theme.

During the festival, trainees from the FAS local training initiative in

culture and heritage studies at the national print museum will lead special interactive tours of the museum’s permanent print collection.

The tour will give the trainees the chance to work directly with the public for the first time and show off their new training as they become fully f ledged tour guides.

This is the seventh nationwide Adult Learners’ Festival which has become a focus over the

years for adult education in Ireland. The festival hosts events around the country offering information, lectures and workshops for those interested in pursuing an adult learning course.

Any adult learning organisation or group can take part in the festival by holding an event or getting involved in the festival in some other way.

There is a different theme for each day of the festival.

On Monday, February

The free interactive tour of the print museum has been set up as part of the learning for work theme in the festival

25, the theme is to celebrate learning, Tuesday.

February 26 will be given over to green learning, learning communities will feature on Wednesday, February 27, February 28 will be learning for work while lobby for learning day is Friday, March 1 and the festival ends with family and intergenerational learning day on March 2.

According to organisers, the week-long festival aims to promote the work of and the adult education sector and ensure that adult education is placed firmly on the political agenda by showcasing all the work done by adult learners throughout the year.

The free interactive tour of the print museum has been set up as part of the

learning for work theme in the festival and will take place on Thursday, February 28 from 11.30 am to 1pm.

If you are part of an adult education organisation and would like to involve yourself in the adult learners’ week, you can get more information by going online to www.adultlearnersfestival.com

Age Action is urging the public to undertake a spring clean this week, and donate their unwanted goods to charity.

The national charity for older people currently has three charity shops taking donations of furniture, clothes, books, shoes, bric-a-brac, rags and many other items.

“If you’d like to make a donation of stock you can either drop it off at your nearest shop, or alternatively take advantage of our collection service which operates within the M50 in Dublin,” shop manager Edwina Brady said.

To arrange a collection, contact 01 475 6989 or email info@ageaction.ie.

Gazette

16 Gazette 14 February 2013

dublinlife

business commuting

advice: LOOK AT Retirement, insurance

Stay focused on finances for life  john lowe The Money Doctor

THIS week, I conclude my examination of financial planning for each stage of your life, with retirement, and start examining insurance.

Retirement With luck and/or judgement, your debts should

all be paid. You should have a range of assets, not least your own home and a pension fund.

You should have spare cash to indulge your chosen leisure activities.

If this is the case, your priorities are likely to include any or all of the following: Creating an emergency fund; funding any benefits

lost following retirement, such as health insurance or a company car; planning for long-term care; tax planning; investing for income or finding other ways to boost income.

If you aren’t as well-off as you would like, then, naturally, your priority will be making the most of what you have available and trying to improve

Leap into a way to save on transport Car insurance is one obvious expenditure we all attend to. However, there are many other vital outlays in life that we should also plan and account for.

your situation as much as possible.

This concludes my analysis of the main life stages of financial planning. Next ...

Insurance made simple Life is a dangerous business – and so, insurance was born. Every day, all

around us, terrible things are happening.

Some of these terrible things happen to possessions (for instance, houses burn down, cars crash, roofs are blown off, holidays are cancelled because of strikes and bicycles are stolen).

Some terrible things happen to people (for

instance, people fall ill, get hurt in accidents, and die). More in the February 28 edition.  Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@ moneydoctor.ie or visit www. moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

WE ARE all looking for ways to save a few euro these days, and especially when it comes to travel.

To this end, the Leap card has been introduced – a reusable plastic smart card that can be used instead of paper tickets to pay-as-you-go on public transport in Dublin.

A spokesperson for Leap said: “Using the Leap card can save you money. It is up to 15% cheaper than Dublin Bus single tickets paid with cash; up to 17% cheaper than Luas singles, and up to 18% cheaper than DART and commuter rail singles.

“It also works out cheaper than return tickets on Luas, DART and commuter rail services.”

Cost-capping A recent innovation for travellers in suburban Dublin is the costcapping option for Luas users. If you make lots of Luas trips with your Leap Card in one day or during a week, the Leap system will automatically cap the price so you don’t spend any more than you need to.

Similar functionality is being developed for Dublin Bus, DART and Commuter Rail services and will be enabled shortly.

Other operators, such as Bus Eireann, and private bus services are being approached to join the scheme.

A wide range of ticket options, such as annual and monthly tickets, will also be made available on Leap cards later this year.

The Leap card is available at more than 400 shops in Dublin, or online at www.leapcard.ie.

14 February 2013 GAZETTE 17

ASDFSDAF P27 TRAVEL P24

MOTORS P23

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



GAZETTE

MUSIC P22

Pets

HELP BELLA FIND A LOVELY NEW HOME

In talking with The Gazette’s Laura Webb on the Lucan set of his new film, Gold, James Nesbitt praised the production’s location – if not quite the bitter weather. Then it was back to work (right) as he, and co-star, David Wilmot, prepared to splash in the freezing Liffey ...

CINEMA: THE GAZETTE TALKS WITH ACTORS JAMES NESBITT AND DAVID WILMOT

Happy to be cold for Gold  LAURA WEBB

WAKING up on a cold Tuesday morning in February to shoot a scene that sees one man get thrown into the icy waters of the River Liffey hardly sounds appealing, but it’s all in a day’s work for actors James Nesbitt and David Wilmot.

Well, kind of ... the stunt man does most of the work, but Hobbit star Nesbitt was also planning on making a splash on set by getting pushed into the chilly February waters during a scene being shot in St Catherine’s Park in Lucan last week.

Nesbitt, and Shadow Dancer actor Wilmot, lead an all-star cast for Irish feature film, Gold, which is currently in production.

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

‘It is a beautiful location here at St Catherine’s Park; I really can’t wait [for this shoot].’

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

James Nesbitt, actor

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

The comedy/drama, developed by Dublin-based production company Subotica, is about the life of wandering loner Ray, played by Wilmot, who desperately tries to track down his estranged ex-wife so his dying father can see his teenage granddaughter one last time.

However, Ray soon discovers his ex has built a new life with his former PE

teacher, played by Nesbitt.

Last week, The Gazette went down to the popular Dublin West Park to get a glimpse behind the scenes and have a chat with some of the cast members.

The scene being filmed at the park involved a stunt man falling into the river and being washed down through the rapids.

Setting the scene, one of the onset production team members, Anne, explained what was about to happen.

“The two leading actors, Frank (Nesbitt) and Ray (Wilmot) go for a walk down the river, a little argument happens and one of them falls into the river.

“We have our stunt team ready, water safety [crew] and the ambulance [crew] ready for the scene. Donal, our stunt-

man, is doubling [as] James Nesbitt. He is going in the water, and he will shoot all the way across the river.”

During their rehearsal time, Nesbitt and Wilmot took a moment out to talk to The Gazette about their latest film project.

Nesbitt said he was loving filming the movie, and was geared up and ready for his day ahead.

“It is a beautiful location here [at St Catherine’s Park]; I really can’t wait [for this shoot]. We have been filming for about a week now, and I think it is going to take about five weeks to complete.”

Nesbitt was enthusiastic about the project, saying that the script is “fabulous”, and praised his fellow actors and crew.

Continued Overleaf

DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs.

Love is in the air, and our Dog of the Week, Bella, is a two-year-old pointer crossbreed. A real beauty – both inside and out – this lady is a clever girl who even knows how to open gates!

Bella’s ideal match would live in an active home with plenty of space for her to be able to run off-lead and stretch her paws. Her pawfect owner would be able to spend time helping her with her socialisation skills and basic training, as she adores learning new things.

As a playful pup, she would cherish a canine companion to keep her company and goof around with, and would be happy to share her new home with big kids, aged 10+.

Please contact Dogs Trust at 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. A map and directions can be found at www.dogstrust. ie, and you can also find them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ dogstrustireland), or on Twitter (@DogsTrust_IE).

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 14 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

Ready to make a splash with roles the way in,” he said, shuddering at the thought.

Working together for the first time, Wilmot said working alongside Nesbitt has been “great”, as has working with Condon and young Game of

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

‘Working in film, you would work longer hours. Films are like marathons, so it’s sort of an endurance test’

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

David Wilmot, actor

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

his hair to keep it from sweeping in his face.

Asked how he was, he bounced about, saying “very cold”.

For him, filming is going well. “It’s hard to tell, but people seem happy. Today is the first bit of snow we have had, and we have to climb into the river.

“I have to wade in a little, but Jimmy has to go all

Thrones actress Maisie Williams, who plays his daughter.

Their day at St Catherine’s Park was set to end at 4.30pm when daylight turned to night, which is a short day for movie makers.

“Working in film, you would work longer hours.

Films are like marathons, so it’s sort of an endur-

ance test,” said Wilmot.

It seems the test is not just for working long hours, but also enduring sub-zero temperatures.

“I was thinking about that the other day. I am kind of cold – a lot. I can’t remember the last hot day I worked in. I should sort that out,” joked Wilmot.

Other supporting actors in the production include Eileen Walsh from Pure Mule and Steven Mackintosh from Small Engine Repair. Gold was written by and is being directed

by IFTA winner Niall Heery.

Filming is ongoing in various locations around Dublin since it commenced on January 30, and principal photography is scheduled to wrap on March 5.

Gold is hoped to be completed in September, and goes on general release in 2014.

Perfectly understandably, David Wilmot was relieved that his character only had to wade into the freezing Liffey a little bit – unlike his co-star, James Nesbitt

gazette

group

.com

“I am working with some brilliant people, including David Wilmot and Kerr y Condon [actress from This Must Be The Place, the Sean Penn film that was partially filmed at the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre], so I am very thrilled to be here. It is lovely.”

Asked if he had filmed in the park before, the Ballymena-born actor said it was his first time there.

“I filmed a lot [in the Republic] years and years ago – it is a beautiful place, but never here. It is cold but very exciting – it’s great to be a part of it.”

Remaining tight-lipped about the film’s storyline, he said all he could tell us was that it’s a “comedy about a family”.

“I don’t think I can say any more ... But today,

we know two people are walking along, and I am getting in the water later, so it’s gonna be a cold day,” he laughed.

A chilly David Wilmot was wrapped up in a duffel jacket and hair clip in

www.

Continued from Page 17

All of your latest All of your latest local news, sport, local news, sport, features and features and pictures are now pictures are now just a click away just a click away

14 February 2013 Gazette 19

Gazette

STYLE health: kbm dental service

Awear €50

Look after one of your most valuable assets – your teeth

Miss Selfridge TBA

Awear €55

Marks and Spencer €40

MONO CHROME Celebrities like Beautiful Creatures star Emmy Rossum, Homeland’s Clare Danes and reality superstar Kim Kardashian, to name just a few, are all rocking out the monochrome look that is about to take over our wardrobes (again!) So this week, Gazette Style has found some great looks to show our readers just how good you can look in black and white, without any worries of looking like that 1980s character from Beetlejuice or that zebra out of Madagascar!

Heatons €20

Penneys €20

“Your health is your wealth” is a very wise old saying, but one of the results of Ireland’s economic woes has been that many people cannot afford to look after their most valuable asset – their health.

Most people don’t realise that there is a proven link between a person’s dental health and their general health. Problems with your teeth or gums can cause serious auto-immunisation diseases of the joints, kidney and heart. Statistics reveal up to half of the children in Ireland have tooth decay by the age of five, but public dental screening service does not start until a child is at least seven.

Baby teeth play an impor-

tant role in helping adult jaws and teeth develop into the right position. If lost early, it can create problems in how the adult teeth align.

KBM Dental is helping to drive down dental costs for Irish people. KBM Dental can offer your child a dental check up for €25 (if you mention this article) which includes a gentle exam of the child’s teeth, oral tissues, and jaws.

The centre also offers root canal treatments and tooth whitening. For more info email kbmdental.grange@ gmail.com or call the clinic at Grange Road Retail park, Rathfarnham on 4957 844.

Centres also located at Tallaght and Skerries.

Gazette

20 gazette 14 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

review: Jessica chastain single-handedly brings down osama bin laden

Zero to complain about I AM not a man who believes that films, or any entertainment media, need to be scrutinised for political stance, gender representations or any other societal concerns.

Yes, there are some artists who like to pepper their work with their beliefs and opinions, but more often than not, they recognise that their first priority is to entertain.

W hich is why I believe that Girls is just a very funny sit-com and not a building block of

 Paul Hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

modern feminism and that maybe it’s okay to enjoy The Impossible without worrying about the colour of the leading family.

Which brings us to Zero Dark Thirty, another film which has become more than a film.

It has become a debat-

ing point in a US presidential election, a source of investigation by both the CIA and Department of Homeland Security (who both found that the film makers had not been given access to classified information) and the basis of an argument over the use of torture in war.

Personally, I don’t really care about any of that.

Yes, I believe that torture is abhorrent and the US needs to look at its own rules of engagement, but was I thinking about that during the muchdiscussed scenes in Zero Dark Thirty? Honestly, no.

Maybe I am missing the point and the film is designed to make you discuss and debate these things, but personally I watch feature films to be entertained, to be told a story.

I believe that documentaries do a better job of raising big issues and that researching a topic is much more valuable than basing an ideological position on what Kathryn Bigelow portrays on film.

The fact that it has been buried under all that argument has detracted from the fact that what we do have here is a very, very good film.

Based loosely on the story of the USA’s attempts to hunt down Osama Bin Laden, Zero Dark Thirty is Bigelow’s follow up to her Oscarwinning war film, The Hurt Locker.

Where that film looked at modern warfare and modern warriors, Zero Dark looks at what it took to get the information on where Bin Laden was hiding acted upon.

Reteaming with Hurt Locker writer Mark Boal, Bigelow is in control from the off here, keeping a short leash on the audience, all false trails and slow sequences.

While the film is the subject of much debate about its politics, it actually doesn’t have any.

No political discussion is given to what to do with the intel at the spooks hands, merely that they must act on it.

Whereas most films about spying show the

Jessica Chastain: saving the world while being fabulous

Film of the Week: Zero Dark Thirty h h h h h (15) 157 mins Director: Kathryn Bigelow Starring: Jessica Chastain, Kyle Chandler, Jason Clarke, Chris Pratt, James Gandolfini

OUR VERDICT: DON’T take it as gospel, don’t get bogged down in its political stances and don’t pay attention to accuracy. Do those three things and you will find an excellent film, a tense thriller and some breathtaking performances. Chastain should find herself an Oscar winner later this month, as her Maya fights to make herself equal in a man’s world. Which is odd because, on current form, she has no equal as an actress.

rock star elements of the job, Zero Dark Thirty shows the grinding boredom and repetition that is involved in gathering

intel.

Not to say that the film is harmed for it by any stretch.

The whole thing is tied

together so tightly that it is strengthened by the slower moments.

But, really, this is Jessica Chastain’s show and she revels in it.

Given the most freedom of her career by a director who clearly trusts her implicitly, she moves the story on with a frenzied energy and an immediacy that is perfectly measured.

After announcing her arrival over the last three years, this marks her as a true Hollywood star.

14 February 2013 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

GAMING DEAD SPACE 3: A HORRIBLY ENTERTAINING ADDITION

BYTES&PIECES BYTES

Sequel is quite a blast SOMEONE once wrote that the problem with horror is that if you write about, say, someone opening a door and finding a nine-foot-tall bug outside, the reader thinks: “Ah, how horrible!”

However, at the same time, they’re also thinking: “Well, at least it wasn’t a 10-foot-tall bug.”

The point is that no matter what you create and deliver, there’s always a law of diminishing returns to overcome when factoring in reader familiarity and expectation with horror, and horror tropes.

This has been the problem with the horribly good (and definitely adult-rated) Dead Space franchise, in that each episode, to date, has been a smash hit in blending psychological horror with action in a sci-fi setting, yet, in doing so, has been reinforcing gamers’ expectations with what to expect in each game.

For “newbies” to the series, and as a quick recap, following his (mis)

EVEN MORE SKYLANDERS

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@gazettegroup.com

adventures in Dead Space aboard the Ishimura, a giant mining spaceship, unlucky engineer Isaac Clarke found himself hot on the heels of the ship’s Unitologist members – a single-minded cult who, having dug up an alien Marker on another world, led to the deaths of everyone on the Ishimura, including his girlfriend.

Later, Dead Space 2 saw Clarke escaping the Unitologists’ clutches aboard The Sprawl – a vast city complex in space also brought to ruin by the cult, and by the Marker’s strange powers – namely, not just to make most people hallucinate and eventually go crazy, but also to pretty effectively mutate and zombify them in pretty dangerous and grotesque ways.

LAND YOURSELF IN A DREAMY SETTING Proteus is a fine example of a “wander-em-up”

The galaxy’s unluckiest engineer, Isaac Clarke (inset, above), finds himself jetting into another awful – in the best sense – adventure in Dead Space 3

Now, Dead Space 3 (DS3) sees Clarke return, determined to put an end to the Marker, and Unitology, once and for all, using his engineer skills (as in the prequels) to turn whatever he finds on his journey to deadly use, whether that’s machinery or, more often, upgrading mining equipment, raw materials and gear into deadly weapons.

He’ll need them, too, as Clarke faces an awful lot of determined human Unitologists, hideously mutated Necromorphs (um, space zombies), and more, not to mention the natural dangers of a number of fantastical and otherworldly settings, all the while as he deals with other characters and their motivations, some helpful but others not ...

PARENTS everywhere will join my nephews in rejoicing with the news that the next Skylanders game has just been announced, and is due out some time this year.

Skylanders Swap Force will bring oodles of new characters to the hit series, with interchangeable top and bottom halves to create even more

While purists may disagree with DS3’s increased emphasis on action – not to mention the dreaded words, “computer-controlled partner” for some sections, which carries all sorts of negative connotations for many gamers – it’s a fair enough development for the popular franchise.

There’s still an awful lot of interesting gameplay, great locales, creative setpieces (has anyone tired of Zero-G sequences yet?) and engaging aspects to make DS3 a blast upon its recent multiplatform release (where, as always, prices vary in shops).

All in all, despite being a step away from the more rarified horror of its prequels, DS3 is a gaming highlight for 2013.

gaming fun.

A new Swap Force peripheral will also be released, to facilitate the new characters, while existing characters can also join in with the next game.

Parents (and hard-pressed uncles) can look forward to tiny pleas of “I just want one more Skylanders, just one!” some time in 2013 ...

I MEANT to get around to this PC title sooner – oh well, better late than never, right? Regular readers may note that I’m rather fond of open world “sandbox” games, and Proteus is a creative addition to this niche genre.

Available for €8.99 through Steam, the digital distribution channel, Proteus is an interesting wander-em-up, more experience than game, which sees the player wander through a randomly created island, yet one which, upon each iteration, hosts a number of common features.

By wandering around, different audio soundscapes are triggered, depending on the location and surroundings, and even by the seasons, as it’s possible – and part of Proteus’ charm – to cycle the island through a year.

There’s no goal, no missions, no side quests – just you, the land, odd creatures and sights – but that’s all. Steering away from the “Videogames as art” argument, it’s also worth noting that Proteus’ visually simplistic, yet creatively striking graphics are also memorable, helping to generate an aimless landscape that yet rewards repeat visits.

Gazette

22 Gazette 14 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

MUSIC

Little Green Cars are in the frame for much success this year

Cars geared for 2013 IT’s easy to fall in love with you.

So goes the refrain from The John Wayne, the lead single from Little Green Cars Nell Harper EP. The lifting melodies and insanely catchy chorus have made the song a constant feature on Irish radio in recent months, but the sentiment can be as easily applied to the young band, who hail from across Dublin’s southside.

A five-piece whose combined age barely makes a century, Little Green Cars are the most hyped band in Ireland at the moment and, unlike many recent most hyped bands, Little Green Cars are

 Paul Hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

totally worth every last superlative.

The Harper Lee EP brims with a confidence and assuredness that isn’t evident in most bands with twice the experience.

T he five-par t harmonies are mostly anchored around leads from Stevie Appleby and Faye O’Rourke and Faye says that the band’s current success can be a bit odd at times.

“It has been surreal at times. But I’ve never

been the kind of person who has thought too much about the future.

“I’m doing music now, going to keep doing it til I’m not.”

Typical of the Irish music scene, there have been detractors wishing to take shots at the band, with much of the criticism aimed at their collective youth, but getting to their current status, signed to Island Records in the UK and Glassnote, home of Mumford and Sons, in the US, has taken some doing.

“It’s been an arduous process to get where we are. We had a lot of labels coming over to watch us before we were signed.

“We wanted to make

music as freely available as possible.

“We are really lucky, lots of labels weren’t the right fit, but now we have a phenomenal team of people around us.

“It’s not about hype or quick releases, it’s about making sustainable careers.”

While Faye recognises that occassionally their age is mentioned, once you get down to brass tacks, all that matters is the music.

“You want people to take you seriously and get past our ages.

“But we’re making mature music at a young age, or so I’m told!

“It can be a bit strange because when you’re working at your own

pace for so long you then have to get used to --------------------------

‘It’s not about hype or quick releases, it’s about making sustainable careers’

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

hitting deadlines.”

The band are due to follow up The Harper Lee EP with the release of their debut album Absolute Zero in April.

Produced by Markus Dravs (Mumford and Sons’ Sigh No More and Babel, Arcade Fire’s Neon Bible and T he Suburbs, Coldplay’s Mylo Xyloto), the

album is as anticipated as any other this year, with Faye saying that working with Dravs was a dream.

“When we were asked who we’d like to work with on the album, Markus was a dream producer, the Maccabees Wall of Arms is one of my favourite albums, so when he showed interest, that was really surreal.

“It was great because he wanted to capture what we’d done, not change it too much.

“So we worked with him for four months straight in an isolated farmhouse in the English countryside.

“The album might make people turn their heads.

“I think people will be

intrigued.”

With a slot on US mega-festival Coachella to come in April, a soldout gig in Dublin’s Button Factory on the slate and a place on the BBC’s sound of 2013 list, the next 12 months are set to belong to Little Green Cars, not that Faye is making any plans.

“I’ve never been someone who plans that far ahead.

“We’re really happy with what we’ve done.

Wherever that takes us, it takes us.

“Whether what we’ve recorded connects with three, 10, 50 or 100 people or more, then that’s great.”

Something tells me it will be a lot more than that.

14 February 2013 malahide gazette 23

kia: a more engaging driving experience than its predecessor

Sportswagon brings style and sophistication n Cormac Curtis

OK, so I’m about to turn 40 – that does not mean I’m getting old, practical, settled or boring, but I do have a lot more time for estate cars than I used to.

But there is no reason to dismiss these motors in the way we traditionally have done.

Take for instance the Kia cee’d sportswagon.

It went on sale in Ireland last October, and I for one started to notice it straight away.

Naturally, it has been put together with all of Kia’s current design queues in mind – the distinctive front grille, the upswept headlight clusters and body contours all combining to give the car real modern appeal.

The Sportswagon is the latest addition to the cee’d range – following the introduction of the five-door that was

launched in May. This is a more sophisticated, more efficient, and more refined car and it delivers a more engaging driving experience than its predecessor There are no surprises with the interior – quality materials, top-notch build quality, clean lines and very comfortable seats.

While offering the same range of engines, transmissions and running gear as the cee’d five-door hatchback, the cee’d Sportswagon offers increased passenger and cargo space, with enhanced practicality.

With a new roof, side panels, rear doors and tailgate, the Sportswagon is 195mm longer (4,505 mm) and 15mm taller (1,485mm), while the 2,650mm wheelbase, one of the longest in the C-segment, is common to all cee’d variants. When open, the new tailgate

The Sportswagon is the latest addition to the cee’d range

rises to 1,888mm to allow easy, unimpeded access to the cargo bay.

And while all the extra bits and pieces sound impressive and look the part – I must admit that rear visibility was just that little bit too obscured for my liking. You can certainly get used to it, but given the terrific view looking forward, it was just a pity they couldn’t have squeezed a few more inches of glass in the aft section.

In terms of cargo, the capacity is 39% greater than the cee’d fivedoor hatchback (528 litres compared to 380 litres) with the rear seats upright and 25% greater with the rear seats folded and the cargo bay loaded to the roof (1,642 litres compared to 1,318 litres). The higher roofline ensures that headroom is increased, by 21mm (front) and by 2mm (rear).

The model line for new

cee’d in Ireland will comprise two trim and engine choices. Trim levels comprise entry level TX and EX - both will be available in 1.4 and 1.6 diesel.

Standard on all models are ESP (electronic stability program), ABS (antilock braking system), BAS (emergency brake assist system), HAC (hill assist control) to prevent roll-back, VSM (vehicle stability management) and ESS (emergency stop signal).

Gazette

MOTORS

road

NOISE

Volkswagen claims number 1 spot for January

Volkswagen Ireland were the topselling passenger car brand in Ireland in January according to figures from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), claiming the No 1 position with 2,137 registrations, a market share of 12.37%.

Commenting, Paul Burke, operations director for Volkswagen Ireland said: “We are delighted with the strong start to 2013, which continues the momentum from

last year. The level of interest in all our model range plus our 3 Offer is very strong.

In addition, the new Golf has been in huge demand since launch and we expect sales to increase further as supply improves. At the moment we are selling every car we can get our hands on.”

Volkswagen Ireland’s strong performance is against the backdrop of an overall motoring industry that year to date is 18.54% down on 2012.

The new Golf has been in huge demand

Gazette

24 malahide gazette 14 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

fast

TRAVEL Take a trip of a lifetime to Beijing and Shanghai If this is your year to treat yourself to the trip of a lifetime, Travel Department could have the perfect escape with a trip to Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai.

Depart April 5 from Dublin to Beijing and return from Shanghai to Dublin with British Airways (via London Heathrow).

Spend five nights at the five-star Legendale Hotel in Beijing on a B&B basis and during your stay, enjoy excursions to The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall of China and Beijing Zoo, among other places.

You will spend three nights at the five-star Howard Johnson Ginwa Plaza Hotel at Xi’an before spending two nights at the five-star Radisson Pudong Century Park Hotel in Shanghai.

Excursions in both Xi’an and Shangai are also included.

Evening meals are included every night in each city.

Alternative dates are available including April 18, 23 and May 2 (prices may vary). Priced from €2,099. Visit www. traveldepartment.ie or call 01 6371600.

TRAVEL

northern ireland: derry~londonderry celebrates its 2013 city of culture win

Walk through history along the walls of ancient Derry  Dave Phillips

You can’t mention the winner of the 2013 City of Culture award without being made aware of its complex history of divide.

Popularly and historically Derry, but since 1613 officially Londonderry, the name undoubtedly induced palpitations in the City of Culture marketing team, who settled on a tilde between the contentious titles to make Derry~Londonderry the focus of this inaugural year.

A year long series of events began in January with the Sons and Daughters Concert which brought home an eclectic collection of performers including Snow Patrol, Phil Coulter and The Undertones. In the coming months, the city

will host the world GAA congress, an Irish language festival, the Fleadh Ceoil, and the Turner Prize alongside many smaller festivals and events, giving Dubliners ample opportunities to make the three-hour trip north for an overnight or weekend stay.

One of the first things you should do is take a walking tour of Derry’s walls, which have enveloped the city centre for 400 years. Martin McCrossan, a local man who first started up the tours over two decades ago, provides an excellent commentary on the city through the ages.

An hour walking the walls will take you from the establishment of the 6th century monastery of Colmcille, through the Siege of Derry and the

formation of the Apprentice Boys, to Bloody Sunday and the peace and reconciliation work that eventually followed for the community.

From the vantage point of the walls, you can look out over the collection of murals that have become well-known symbols of sectarianism. Some of the murals have changed over time to reflect the change from violence to peace.

The turbulent history of Derry is one that nobody is afraid to shy away from, let alone attempt to forget. The great split in this community and its subsequent repair is part and parcel of a unique cultural identity; and the walking tours and museums dedicated to what has become known as The Troubles have become some of the most popular attractions for visitors.

Staying at a hotel within the walls of the

The Foyle, traditionally a natural border between the Catholic and Protestant communities, can now be crossed via the recently erected Peace Bridge

A walking tour of Derry’s walls, which have enveloped the city centre for 400 years, comes highly recommended. Pictures: Gavan Donnelly

city is recommended, as so much is accessible on foot. The Tower Hotel is a great central spot as you’ll have everything just a short stroll away.

Derry is full of little streets, arches and alleyways, so there are a lot of nooks and crannies to explore – one of the highlights is the Craft Village, a quiet collection of shops and cafes where you can pick up some unique jewellery or gifts. There’s also a great live music

scene in the evenings, with lots of pubs hosting bands. Aside from the Fleadh Ceoil, which is set to make its first border crossing and draw up to 300,000 people to the city in August, there’s also a Hidden Voices festival, and BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend festival on the cards for 2013.

Many of the 2013 City of Culture events are taking place in The Venue, a temporary arena located at Ebrington Square on

What to do and Where to stay  A full list of events taking place

 Rooms are available at the Tower

in Derry~Londonderry during 2013

Hotel, Derry, from £59 at www.

is available at www.cityofculture2013.com.

Derry~Londonderry is a 2013 City of Culture

towerhotelderry.com  Tours cost £4 from

www.derrycitytours.com

the banks of the river Foyle, in what was once a British Army base. The symbolic relevance of this is not coincidental.

The Foyle, traditionally a natural border between the Catholic and Protestant communities, can now be crossed on the recently erected Peace Bridge, a massive monument to progress that gently twists and turns across the river.

It’s only when walking on this new ground that the rationale of bridging the name Derr y~Londonderr y with a tilde becomes obvious. There’s a palpable sense of pride in the city and a whole list of reasons to visit.

14 February 2013 malahide gazette 25

No 4 Oak Glen Park, Southern Cross Road, in Bray is a four-bedroom house on the market for €420,000

Home with unique style and warmth

Sherry Fitzgerald in Bray are bringing No 4 Oak Glen Park, Southern Cross Road, in the town to the market for the price of €420,000.

This four-bedroom home has been well maintained and extended and upgraded over the years, meaning that the house has a unique warmth and style.

On entering, the hallway is indicative of the pristine accommodation to follow. The heart of this home is the open plan kitchen/family/dining room, which has been extended in recent years.

Flooded with natural light from the various Velux windows in the high vaulted ceiling, it is the perfect area for relaxing and dining. Double doors bring you through to a study or playroom

which in turn brings you through to the living room at the front which has a lovely box bay window.

A separate utility located off the hallway is ideal for hiding all evidence of mundane household chores!

A guest wc completes the downstairs accommodation.

Upstairs there are four bedrooms: two singles and two doubles. Three of the bedrooms have fitted wardrobes and the fourth bedroom has fitted shelving and storage.

Master bedroom

The master bedroom is en suite. A hotpress and family bathroom complete the accommodation on this level. A further stairs will bring you up to the converted attic. This

space has been cleverly converted to provide a very bright and spacious room.

The property has a cobblelock drive to the front of the house which provides off-street parking. It has a wooden gate to the side, giving access to the rear garden, which is laid out with Indian sandstone paving and is the perfect haven for al fresco dining in summer months. The rear garden is bordered with plants and shrubs, and a Barna shed provides outside storage.

Oak Glen Park is only moments from the N11/ M50, providing quick and easy access to both the city centre and the sunny south east. A bus at the end of the road will bring you to the Luas or the DART. Bray

town itself has a charming beach and seafront promenade that appeals all year round. An excellent choice of pubs, restaurants and coffee shops are along the main street and seafront. There is an excellent choice of both primary and secondary schools close by.

Oak Glen Park is a very popular development on the Southern Cross Road and has always proved popular with both young and old alike, and this is a home of the highest standard providing spacious living accommodation ideal for a growing family.

For more information and to arrange an appointment to view, contact Joan O’Hanlon at Sherry Fitzgferald, Bray on 01 286 6630, or email bray@sherryfitz.ie

The cleverly converted attic space

The open plan kitchen/family/dining room is flooded with natural light

Gazette

HOMES

26 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 14 February 2013

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14 February 2013 malahide Gazette 27

cycling P28

asdfsdaf gaelic games P27 P31

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



Gazette

sailing P28

FastSport iosagain star wins Leinster title: COLAISTE

James McGee and Sam Barry celebrate their doubles victory over Marek Marksoo and Vladimir Ivanov in the Davis Cup

tennis: castleknock man aces estonia test in riverview showdown last week

McGee power play critical as Ireland win dramatic Cup tie CASTLEKNOCK man James McGee cut a dramatic figure last week in Riverview following his and Sam Barry’s epic doubles victory over Estonia’s Marek Marksoo and Vladimir Ivanov in the third leg of their Davis Cup tie.

It ultimately proved the vital match as the two countries shared the four singles rubbers on the Friday and Sunday. Sandwiched in between, the doubles was the epitome of the competition’s attraction, running the gamut of emotions in front of an enlivened capacity crowd at the Clonskea venue.

Initially, it looked plain sailing as Barry played a blinder in the first set while McGee’s two bludgeoned returns forced the key break in the final game, making it 6-4.

The second set followed, 6-3, but the pendulum swung against them as they were unable to break again for another 25 games. Marksoo, without a world ranking but a current University of Sacramento tennis scholar, looked all at sea in the opening sets but suddenly found a lightness of foot and deftness of touch around the net to become the key player,

pulling off a string of sharp volleys.

Indeed, Estonia were claiming the big points and raced to the next two sets, both 6-3, to send the rubber to a deciding fifth. Again, Estonia looked to be cruising after an early break of the McGee serve and they extended the lead out to 5-2.

McGee did hold to keep the tie alive before, on Ivanov’s serve, Estonia earned two match points, one of which Barry produced a stunning forehand winner down the line to survive once more.

Those saves got the crowd going and their chants of “break, break, break” grew

louder when Marksoo overhit a volley, bringing Ireland back to 5-4. Barry held and parity remained up to 7-7.

When the crucial break came, McGee let out a primal roar, leaving him with the chance to serve out the match.

Two heavy second serves got him to match point and he saw it home with an emphatic ace.

A day later Barry, completed the job with a singles success, 3-2 overall and earning Ireland a date with Finland in round two of the Euro Africa section of the draw.

Iosagain’s Siofra Cleirigh Buttner continued her winning streak as she claimed the Aviva Leinster Schools’ Cross Country Championships in Santry Demesne last week.

Cleirigh Buttner won the senior girls race, detaching herself and Linda Conroy from the field by the final lap as both athletes entered the finishing straight. Buttner made the decisive break to win the title.

Mount Anville’s Ella Fennelly showed a clean pair of heels to the rest of the intermediate girls field as she strode to an impressive victory. Isabelle Odlum (Rathdown School) and Isabel Carron (Skerries CC) finished second and third respectively.

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 14 February 2013

SPORT

FastSport leinster call for trio from adamstown: ADAMSTOWN trio Hammas Habi, Hannan Mann and Ali Elahi have all been included in the South Leinster training squad for winter cricket coaching sessions currently being held at North County Cricket Club.

Six sessions between now and Easter will give the players an opportunity to further their skills and gain selection onto this summer’s Leinster U-17 squad.

As well as playing in this year’s interprovincial series, games have also been arranged against Australian schools – St Patrick’s, Sydney and St Peter’s College, Adelaide.

Added to the programme this year will be two South Leinster versus North Leinster fixtures due to take place on July 24 and 26 at Kilgobbet Park in Cabinteely.

Phoenix’s Thomas Anders, Eoin Cleere and Adam Chester have been named in the North Leinster selection.

sailing: strong local contingent up for annual national awards

Murphy heads ISA nominees  sport@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL sailors abounded among the 25 nominees in contention for the Irish Sailing Association’s six prestigious annual awards including the premier accolade of the Irish sailing community; the ISA Sailing Achievement of the Year award.

The awards will be presented at the ISA seventh annual awards ball in the Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire on March 2 as hundreds of members and supporters of the Irish sailing community come together.

2012 was an incredibly successful year for Irish sailing as 11 sailors competed at the London Olympic and Paralym-

pic Games and dozens of medals were claimed at events around the world. This has been represented in the calibre of nominees.

The female star of Irish sailing, Rathfarnham’s Annalise Murphy, will go head-to-head against two other outstanding nominees for Sailing Achievement of the Year, kindly supported by BHP Insurance.

Fellow Oly mpians Peter O’Leary and Malahide’s David Burrows earned their nod when they won gold at the preOlympic Sail for Gold regatta which took place less than two months before the Games at the Olympic venue in Weymouth.

But both contenders

will face stiff competition from the third nominee; offshore sailor Damian Foxall who was Watch Captain on Groupama, winner of the 2011-2012 Volvo Ocean Yacht Race.

New to this year’s awards is the collaboration between the ISA and Mitsubishi Motors for the ISA Mitsubishi Motors Club of the Year Award. This award will be presented to the club that has significantly developed in raising the profile of the sport, improved safety standards and developed initiatives to grow membership and community inclusion.

Amongst the nominees is the Royal St George Yacht Club which wel-

Annalise Murphy is among the nominees for Irish Sailing Achievement of the Year

comed 350 youth sailors from 63 nations to Dun Laoghaire last July as they hosted the Youth World Sailing Championships along with three other Dun Laoghaire clubs. They are up against UC D S a i l i n g C l u b who won the student yachting world cup last November and Wicklow Sailing Club who hosted the 17th Round Ireland Yacht Race during the summer.

Paving the way for future Olympic successes are the incredibly talented youth sailors who are rising through the ranks of the ISA Olympic Pathway Programme.

Among them is Laser Radial sailor Finn Lynch, from the National Yacht Club, who claimed silver at the Youth World Sailing Championships last summer giving Ireland its best ever result at the championship.

0He has been nominated in the category of Youth Sailor of the Year, supported by Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company, along with Sarah Eames from Co Down, Dougie Power from Co Waterford and Harry Whitaker from Co Cork. Other awards on the night include Volunteer of the Year, Instructor of the Year and Training Centre of the Year.

Ryan hoping to add to world championships medal haul  sport@gazettegroup.com

Garda cycling club’s Caroline Ryan

GARDA cycling club’s Caroline Ryan has been named in Cycling Ireland’s world championship team as the country has qualified for a record six events.

She has been named in the three-person selection for the event which takes place in Minsk from February 20-24.

She is joined in the side by Skerries-based Martyn Irvine and Eoin Mullen as they finalise their preparation for the World Championships having qualified through the World Cup series.

Olympian Irvine will race the individual pursuit and the scratch race, events in which he took a silver medal at the World Cup in Glasgow last December.

In the colours of his new team, United Healthcare, Irvine is completing his preparation racing in France, before joining the rest of the team two weeks before the competition begins.

Ryan, who is the reigning bronze medallist in the points race, will be racing in the individual pursuit, the points race, and in the scratch race.

That was Ireland’s first medal

at a senior track cycling world championship since Harry Reynolds took gold in 1896 and bronze in 1897, a feat made even more incredible by the fact that cycling is the second sport at which she has competed internationally having previously rowed for the country.

Both Irvine and Ryan are aiming to place in the top five in the world in their events, which given recent results, is a realistic goal.

Mullen will be racing in his first senior world championship, and is competing in the sprint event.

“Mullen has been based in the

world training centre in Aigle for the past year, and his performances have been consistently improving.

Coach Brian Nugent said: “Eoin has created history by becoming the first sprint rider to qualify for the world championships. This in itself is a fantastic achievement, and it is great to see the new generation of cyclists coming through.

“With Ireland lining up in six events, this is the largest representation that we have had, and we will be on the hunt for another world medal.”

14 February 2013 MALAHIDE Gazette 29

Gazette

30 malahide gazette 14 February 2013

SPORT

FastSport

Matt Doherty part of strong Irish showing SWORDS man Matt Doherty was part of Noel King’s Republic of Ireland U-21 team that produced an impressive display to beat the Netherlands 3-0 in a friendly at Tallaght Stadium.

Millwall striker Aiden O’Brien marked his debut at this level with a first half double before Anthony Forde wrapped up the scoring with a second half spot-kick.

The Dutch gave the Irish defence plenty to think about early on and home keeper Aaron McCarey made a stunning save to keep out a misdirected header by defender Derrick Williams in the third minute and Dutch captain Alex Schalk hit the post with a deflected shot.

O’Brien gave Ireland the opener when he steered home from Forde’s cross in the tenth minute and might have made it two in the 22nd minute when he outstripped the Dutch defence but pulled his shot wide.

Forde was the provider once more for the second goal eight minutes before the break with a wide free-kick that Shane Duffy headed on and O’Brien swept to the net.

Wolves midfielder Forde wrapped up the scoring when he expertly fired home from a 57th-minute penalty to seal a memorable win after he was fouled by Stefano Denswil to earn the penalty.

Substitute keeper Sean McDermott made a late save to deny Joel Veltman as the home side held on for the victory.

The Irish U-21s had beaten Italy in their previous fixture and meet Portugal in another home friendly on March 25 while their opening competitive game in the next UEFA Championships qualifying tournament is away to the Faroe Islands on August 14.

Doherty, himself, has been on loan with Bury for much of the season, lining out 17 times before returning to Wolves for the second half of the current campaign where he had made four appearances since moving across the water from Bohemians.

rugby: coolmine claim cup double in ashbrook finals

The Malahide RFC side at Ashbrook last weekend following their close run Spencer Cup final defeat

Malahide take positives  peter carroll sport@gazettegroup.com

DESPITE losses in both the Spencer and the Jim Byrne Cup finals last weekend, Malahide RFC will take a lot of positives from their progression through the two competitions, in particular the firsts who reached their first Spencer Cup final playing against now four time winners, Coolmine.

David Stacy took no time in getting Coolmine ahead when he was fed the ball from a lineout before opening up his legs and touching down, leaving Donal Crotty a simple

kick to convert.

Brian Geraghty played a key role when Malahide were awarded a penalty try on the 20-minute mark to level up the scoring after Coolmine collapsed a number of close-range scrums.

Crotty kept the score board ticking over for the remainder of the half with two penalties, leaving the score at the break in Ashbrook at 13-7 to the host club.

But it was Malahide who reacted the better of the two after the interval with Keith Harrell grounding after a lineout and maul set the platform

jersey guardians Zebo Thunder-struck ahead of English game antoinette Thunder, from Balbriggan, was one of 23 lucky Irish rugby supporters lined out as official O2 Jersey Guardians for the Ireland Team ahead of the game against England at Aviva Stadium last weekend, taking care of Simon Zebo’s number 11 jersey.

Jersey Guardians gives supporters the chance to deliver the players’ jerseys to the Irish dressing room ahead of the game. She is pictured with former Irish international Mick Galwey.

that allowed him to break free and get over the line to put his side ahead, 13-14.

Coolmine’s running game got a lot better after going behind and it was Crotty who kicked his side back into the lead on the 60th minute with a third penalty.

Geoff Mullin added to the Coolmine tally with another try in the 72nd minute, but despite Crotty being unable to convert the effort, he made up for it by crossing the whitewash for a try of his own before converting in the final act of the game, with the score finishing

up 28-14.

For Malahide, it was a strong showing as they faced off against opposition residing two divisions above them in the Leinster league programme.

“They gave a good account of themselves,” said first team coach Alun Brophy.

“Overall, we can be happy with our performance, in particular with our set pieces where I felt we were very dominant.

“We scored a couple of brilliant tries that came off some very positive moves and I think that it’s huge that a team two divisions lower than the likes

of Coolmine can come in and get to the final in a field that have great teams like Monkstown and Garda in the mix.

“I just hope that everyone at the club can take some type of boost from it because I know it will help us when we get back to league action in three week’s time.

“A lot of our opposition in the league would have been playing in the Towns Cup, so I think it will help us no end,” Brophy finished.

Coolmine also claimed the seconds Jim Byrne Cup over Malahide with a 10-5 win.

14 February 2013 MALAHIDE gazette 31

Gazette

Mearnog man continues Dublin ascent  sport@gazettegroup.com

NAOMH Mearnog man Kevin O’Brien played a big role in Dublin’s 11 point win over Kerry, 1-11 to 0-4, with his defensive awareness keeping the Kerry attacks at bay throughout the game to help Jim Gavin’s men to their second win in two games at Fitzgerald Sta-

dium, Killarney on Sunday.

Although Sylvester’s Gary Sweeney was not involved in the game, it is believed that the young man will continue to get chances to impress in the league campaign, as will last year’s minor captain David Byrne and Mearnog team mate Shane Carthy.

Although the score line showed a very dominant performance from the Dubs, Jim Gavin believed it could have been more on the day had there been more of a stress put on scoring and shooting in the build up to the game.

“We have a lot of work to do on the training field on their shooting. The

quality was questionable at times but I suppose from a coaching perspective at least we created those opportunities.

“But the Kerry defence played quite well, they were tight on their guys, every time there was a shot going off there was pressure being put on so you have to give them credit as well.”

football: fins women fly the flag in sky blue

Club Noticeboard st sylvester’s SINEAD Aherne scored four points for

renew acquaintances with Na Fianna

Dublin in Chanel College on Sunday

in the Loving Cup in Mobhi Road on

but Donegal took the victory. Former

Sunday, February 17 at 11am.

Dublin manager Peter Clarke, now

The junior B team play Ballyboughal

managing Mayo, was an interested

away in the Sheridan Cup at 2.30pm

spectator. Niamh McEvoy was not

also on Sunday, February 17.

available because of an injury.

The table quiz fundraiser for the

The senior football team play St

senior football team on Friday was

Maur’s in Broomfield next Sunday,

very well supported and manager

February 17 at 11am in the St Vincent

Gabriel Bannigan was an excellent

De Paul Cup.

master of ceremonies.

The junior A team play Skerries

Bar manager Gary Penrose has

Harps in the Stacy Cup at the same

been running a series of great offers

time also in Broomfield. The minor A

with the latest one on the pint of Guin-

football team play Kilmacud Crokes

ness proving very popular.

also at the same time in a very busy Broomfield.

The intermediate football team

The Valentine’s Day lotto jackpot this week is €2,550. Love to win? Play online at www.stsylvesters.ie.

naomh mearnog WELL done to Kevin O’Brien who had a

Don’t forget that you can view all

fine game for the Dubs in their victory

ma jor sporting events on our big

over Kerry.

screens. Registration for 2013 will

The bad weather virtually wiped

We are still struggling to find men-

view of the state of the pitches at the

tors for our senior and junior hurl-

moment, mentors are asked to be

ing teams and for our AFL5 football

particularly careful and to abide by

teams. Is there anyone prepared to

the wishes of the pitch committee.

help?

One of the few games that did survive was our Under-8 game. We would like to thank Naomh Fionnbarra for their excellent hospitality.

Denise McKenna scored Dublin’s first goal against Donegal last weekend Picture: Peter Hickey/GAAPics.com

Injury-hit Jackies fall to Donegal loss nfl division one Dublin 2-7 Donegal 3-10  sport@gazettegroup.com

DESPITE not coming away with a win against Donegal at the weekend, Dublin ladies manager Paul Gilheaney will take some positives from the performances of a sizable Fingallians’ crew of Sinead Finnegan, Amy McGuinness and Denise McKenna who battled hard for the Sky Blues throughout the 60 minutes in Chanel College.

Hannah Tyrell’s entry to the game was some what shadowed by yet

another Dublin loss as 2011 All Star Elaine Kelly was forced from the field after sustaining an injury in the warm up, but the young Tower’s talent will be happy that she was first player that came to mind as replacement for the Dubs boss.

Kelly’s name only adds to the list of Dublin injuries coming off their opening league encounter with Meath the week before where the side lost the services of rising stars Orlagh Egan and Niamh McEvoy.

The fluidity in the side’s movement and distribution that was wit-

nessed in their opening league clash with Meath was absent on Parnell’s turf, as the lack of training and match fitness seemed to rear its head in the Dublin side who may still be having some growing pains with some fresh faces now added to the squad.

Donegal’s star forward Geraldine McLaughlin caused the majority of the trouble for the Dublin defence and she bagged 3-5 of the Donegal tally of 3-10 with 3-3 of the scores coming from play.

Dublin could only muster 2-7 for themselves

on the day falling to a six point deficit from their northern opposition.

Siobhan Woods led the scoring for the Jackies with 1-1, Sinead Aherne took 0-4 with 0-2 from frees, McKenna grabbed the side’s first goal and Lyndsay Davies and Amy Guinness took a point each.

Gilheaney’s side travel to Leinster rivals Laois next week where they will no doubt face a tough ask as the O’Moore County have already taken two wins in their opening two encounters in the league, seeing off Donegal and Tyrone.

commence at the end of the month.

out all games at the weekend and, in

The club lotto jackpot is now over €5,000.

Please continue to support it. On March 8, we have a fashion show. All

As with all organisations, GAA clubs

major shops and boutiques will be

are feeling the pinch of the current

exhibiting. Contact Donal Power for

economic climate. To help offset this

tickets and more details.

we urge all players and members to

We have live music in the bar next

support all aspects of club activity

Saturday night. Admission is free and

please.

all are welcome.

fingallians CONGRATULATIONS to the Dublin sen-

shop sale next Saturday, February 16

ior hurlers on defeating Wexford 1-19

from 10am to 12 noon. Sale includes kits

to 0-16 in the final of the Walsh Cup.

(socks/shorts/jersey) for €50.

After last year’s success, the club

The interest shown has been phe-

are going all out to make our repre-

nomenal since it was announced that

sentation at this year’s Swords St

Strictly Come Dancing is coming to

Patrick’s Day Parade even bigger. If

Fingallians, with both dancers and

you wish to help or have any ideas,

helpers getting in touch. If you’d like

please email fingallians@gmail.com

to dance, you need have absolutely

The club will be hosting a first aid

no experience of dancing; just some

course this Saturday from 9am - 5pm.

enthusiasm, willingness and a sense

The cost will be €30 and a member of

of fun. If interested in dancing or help-

each team must take part. For further

ing, contact Oisin on 086 8516210 or

information and to confirm your place,

strictly@fingallians.com

please contact sandraobrien67@ gmail.com.

The club and Swords Credit Union are putting a list of businesses where

Football championship diary dates: intermediate and senior first round - on the weekend of April 13 and the junior first round is June 16.

a defibrillator is available. We would

The Irish conversation group runs

ask members who know of this facility

each Wednesday in the clubhouse at

to email the club on fingallians@gmail.

9pm. Suitable for all levels. Group are

com or darren@swordscu.ie

now getting ready for Seachtain na

For one day only, we will have a club

Gaeilge.

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

cup drama: Malahide push Coolmine to the limit in both Spencer and Byrne Cup finals in Ashbrook P30

february 14, 2013

davis cup doubles heroes: Ireland celebrate stunning win over Estonia visitors P27

Conor Sammon, centre, pictured with Donal Hughes, Malahide United vice chairman, and chairman Don Butler, chairman in Gannon Park last week

Sammon of Ireland

Malahide man delighted with Republic of Ireland debut as he lines out up front for Giovanni Trappatoni’s charges in strong 2-0 win over Poland

 stephen findlater

sport@gazettegroup.com

MALAHIDE man Conor Sammon said he was proud of his Republic of Ireland debut performance as he played the full 90 minutes in their 2-0 win over Poland in the Aviva Stadium last week.

The 26-year-old striker said afterwards that it was “an incredible experience, getting to know the boys. It was a very proud moment for me to be named in the starting 11”.

It followed a homecoming of sorts, training with Giovanni Trappatoni’s charges in Gannon Park and meeting up with current

Malahide United club chairman Don Butler and vice-chairman Donal Hughes among others.

Reflecting on his performance on the night, he added: “The game couldn’t have gone much better with a win against a tough side.

“I was looking at it hoping to get on for 30 minutes, so it was incredible to get the start.

“I was pleased with my performance.

Obviously, it would have been nice to get a goal and I had a great chance in the second half but my touch was a bit heavy and I should have taken a shot. But I was really pleased to play 90 minutes. I didn’t expect

that against a tough team like the Polish.

“It was a tough game; Poland are a really good side and they showed that early on, keeping the ball very well. All credit to us; we defended well, were solid and got two good goals as well.

“Up front, we knew we had to put a shift in with all 11 boys on the pitch fighting for each other and thankfully it’s paid off and we got ourselves a win.

He knows, though, he will have a battle on his hands to pin down one of the starting spots when it comes to the key World Cup qualifiers next month.

“We have great experience in the striking department with Kevin Doyle, Shane Long,

Jon Walters and Simon Cox.” Sammon – who made his way to Derby via UCD, Kilmarnock and Wigan – added that he was also pleased to be joined in the Irish panel by Derby team mates Jeff Hendrick and Richard Keogh who both also played their part in the win on the night.

And Sammon said that knowing players from club level helped him settle into an environment he had never previously experienced.

“It was helpful to have familiar faces that you see day in, day out at club level,” the exWigan frontman added.

“It makes it easier when you are in unfamiliar surroundings.”