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WHEREVER YOU ARE IN THE FINGAL AREA, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED DECEMBER 14-25, 2017
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FREE WHEREVER YOU ARE IN THE FINGAL AREA, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED DECEMBER 14-25, 2017 FITNESS CHRISTMAS
BELLES
Eat, drink – and be healthy, with our great new section to help you feel your best Page 23
RACHEL Grainger, Lisa O’Sullivan and Carol Sanderson looked very stylish as they gave their support to a Christmas lunch in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation.
A host of supporters and celebrities gathered for the delicious do at The Shelbourne, where Brian and Pippa Ormond, Shane Byrne, Lorraine Keane and many others were happy to help. For the full gallery, see inside. Picture: Shane O’Neill
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SELFLESS LITTLE BOY USES HIS CHRISTMAS SAVINGS TO HELP OTHERS
Ben, 7, buys 78 sleeping asdf asdf sdaf bagsdsaf for homeless dsaf dsaf ad asfsdaf SYLVIA POWNALL A SEVEN-YEAR-OLD schoolboy has raided his piggy bank to buy sleeping bags for the homeless. Ben Armstrong was so concerned about rough sleepers outdoors in harsh weather conditions he decided to use
his Christmas savings of €70 to help them. Ben, from Corduff in Blanchardstown, raised even more money through family and friends and on Monday he handed over 78 sleeping bags to a homeless charity.
His proud mum, Deborah, told Dublin Gazette: “After the last storm Ben (right) came downstairs from his bed extremely upset. “He was very concerned for the homeless people.”
Continued on Page 6
4 DUBLIN GAZETTE NORTH 14 December 2017
ENVIRONMENT | LOCALS SHOW SPIRITED FRONT TO PROTECT PARK
FASTNews
THE launch of a recent campaign to protect St Catherine’s Park has awakened a consciousness within the community, according to organisers. The ‘Save Clonsilla’s Roots’ group wants to protect the local environment through careful and sustainable planning. A spokesperson said: “Residents are mobilising to protect the environment within which we live. “The provision of housing and infrastructural improvements are two of the key pillars of a sustainable community; however, we must have the tandem approach of the protection of the environment, its flora and fauna.”
Have a say on a proposed one-way system in Lusk
Clonsilla campaigners rally to save the trees
Graham Bradley, Trish Donovan and Cllr Tania Doyle (Ind) of the Save Clonsilla’s Roots Campaign
The SCR campaign was set up for the protection of the local environment – in particular, a 280-year-old oak on the Shelerin Road which was deemed unsafe by the council. The tree was removed
in recent weeks despite opposition – and this led to major support being harnessed on the ground and a wider online petition being launched. The group notes: “Concerns have been raised that
a number of current and future developments are at odds with Fingal County Council’s own biodiversity and conservation initiative. “There are numerous developments in the greater Dublin 15 area where existing shrubbery and trees have been proactively incorporated into the proposed development. “It is very evident that the ideal to retain, maintain and incorporate is feasible. “The Save Clonsilla’s Roots Campaign and its steering group is NOT opposed to development – far from it, in fact. “SCRC is opposed to development, as it is presented, which will clearly have a detrimental impact on the village and its residents. “In the case of the proposed development around St Mary’s, it is clear that a high volume of existing mature hedgerow and trees shall be laid waste needlessly.
“We would suggest that any such development, which removes large volumes of living flora, is in direct contravention of the Clonsilla Urban District Strategy. “It declares that ‘the character derives from the existing protected and other historic structures, the scale of the buildings and the mature trees lining Clonsilla Road’. “We must not accept that there is no alternative, nor accept such a high cost being paid for the development of housing and provision of infrastructure. “The cost in this instance – the decimation of habitats, which brings life and character to the community in which we live. “More than 2,000 people agree that this character is worth saving.” For further information or to keep up to date on the campaign, see https:// w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / keepclonsillasroots/
Milestone reached for Swords Express SWORDS Express is celebrating 10 years in business – and the rapid coach service has grown its fleet from five to 35 in a decade. The company now employs 40 people, operating 130 daily departures between Swords and the city centre, and says this is due to increase over the next 24 months, with plans to serve new areas in Swords. Managing director Sinead Kavanagh (pictured) said: “Over the past 10 years we have experienced exponential growth. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our workforce and our customers, many of whom have been with us since day one.” In the past 12 months alone Swords Express has continued to expand its timetable, serving city centre employment hubs including Eastpoint Business Park, Docklands, the IFSC/O’Connell Street area and Merrion Square. Operations manager Jeff Clarke said: “In the past 12 months we have added three new routes in River Valley, Miller’s Glen and Montgorry Way. We have increased departures between 6am and 11.30am on weekdays along with increased weekend capacity.”
FINGAL County Council is preparing plans for a one-way system in Lusk. The local authority proposes that the route run along Barrack Lane and change the existing one-way system on Church Road (pictured) “to enhance road safety”. The scheme would block access onto Barrack Lane from Ministers Road and prevent entry to it and Church Road from Station Road. Plans are now on display via the council’s public consultation portal (https://consult.fingal.ie), at Lusk Community Centre and libraries in Skerries and Rush. Submissions and observations can be made or in writing to Shay Barker, Senior Executive Officer, Operations Department, Fingal County Council, Grove Road, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 not later than 4.30pm on Friday, January 26.
Calls for bus services to link Swords, rural areas THERE have been calls for bus services linking rural areas to Swords town. Cllr Philip Lynam (SF) has tabled a motion for the next Area Meeting of the council calling for a public transport link from St Margaret’s through Rivermeade, Coolquay, Newtown and Dunbro to Swords. He said: “We have had representations from residents seeking this service and I am hoping that my fellow councillors will support this motion.” He said the timing was ideal “because of the upgrading works to the roads and infrastructure around the airport that are currently under way”. Cllr Lynam said residents without the use of a car can be left feeling isolated and Sinn Fein will engage locally to gauge best timing and frequency for the much-needed service.
Number of free Pay and Display parking available FREE Pay and Display parking is available in Balbriggan, Rush, Skerries and Swords this Saturday, December 16 and again on Saturday 23. Fingal County Council made the decision following the success of previous schemes to promote shop-local initiatives and to help support local businesses. Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers
14 December 2017 NORTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 5
6 DUBLIN GAZETTE NORTH 14 December 2017
CHARITY | AN INSPIRATIONAL D15 BOY POLICING | BABY AMONGST INJURED
Brilliant Ben helps dozens of homeless Continued from Page 3
Ben raised more than €300 to add to his own money and after buying up the entire stock in Penneys, he spoke to the manager to request 60 more units. These were delivered from the chain’s depot in Thor, Spain and on Monday night Ben and Deborah handed them over to A Lending Hand outside the Central Bank. According to mumof-three Deborah, this is just the latest in a long list of charitable acts by her thoughtful son. She revealed: “Ben is such a sweet boy. His younger brother, Mikey (3) has severe SPD [sensory processing disorder] and other issues. “It means he can’t go into crowds, can’t have
Keira from homeless charity ‘A Lending Hand’ thanks Ben
certain materials, can’t have certain foods. But Ben is so patient and understanding. “Ben taught him to speak. He sits down with Mikey every day and reads a book. He is wise beyond his years – my mam calls him ‘the old soul’.” Ben, who also has an older brother, Aaron (13), is known for the kindness he shows others at St Patrick’s Junior School in Corduff, where he is in his communion
year. Deborah revealed: “He used to watch out for kids who looked lonely and sit beside them and ask them to be friends. “I said: ‘Did you tell your teacher about the sleeping bags?’ and he said: ‘I don’t think we should do things for recognition, we should do them to help others’. “I reckon he’s going to be an aid worker overseas. My cousins go to South Africa every year to help a charity out there and every year he asks if he can go. “Every Christmas, he donates his toys to charity and does extra chores to buy a gift for a child to leave under the St Vincent de Paul tree. “I’m so proud of my kind-hearted little boy.”
Appeal for calm after three shot
SYLVIA POWNALL
TRAVELLER resource centre Pavee Point has appealed for calm following Monday’s triple shooting in Mulhuddart in which an eight-monthold baby was injured. The advocacy group’s spokesperson Martin Collins spoke out on RTE radio warning that if the row is not resolved, “it could be even worse next time”. Baby John Collins, his mother Lynn Doyle (29), and his 17-year-old uncle, Matthew Collins, were all hospitalised after being shot in a daytime attack at Parslickstown Green. Collins said if the feud was not diffused “it has the potential to escalate and it could be even worse next time, where potentially lives could be lost”. He urged those involved to “see sense, come back to the table and to understand that
violence and conflict is not inevitable, it is entirely preventable”. The local community was left reeling after Monday’s shooting. The baby, who was in his mother’s arms when he was hit, is being treated at Temple Street Children’s Hospital. He was hit by up to 16 pellets in the indiscriminate attack and suffered a broken leg. The family were putting up their Christmas tree at the time. All three casualties suffered gunshot injuries which have been described as non-life
threatening. Collins said yesterday a visible garda presence is an important deterrent as it would help to try to contain the situation and keep feuding families apart. He said there were “various attempts over the last number of months and indeed years to try and find a resolution through mediation” which have been unsuccessful. The manager of the Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group, Catherine Joyce, has also offered to mediate in the dispute. An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he was “horrified” to learn of the shooting which was carried out in his constituency. He added: “This was a shocking incident. “I know the gardai are conducting a detailed inquiry and it’s important that they now be given the space to complete their work.”
FASTNews
Mooretown site for new school deal expected A DEAL to buy a site for a new school in Mooretown, Swords is expected to be reached before Christmas. Senator James Reilly has welcomed progress in the acquisition of the land for a campus to include both primary and secondary schools. He said: “This will be of immense benefit to the families in Swords who have been eagerly awaiting the additional schools to serve the area. “I will continue to work with the Minister and the Department to ensure we have a school built and occupied by the end of 2018.”
Blood donation unit set to visit Fingallians THE Irish Blood Transfusion Service Board’s mobile unit team will be at Fingallians Clubhouse on Saturday, December 23 from 11am to 2.30pm. Some 3,000 units (pints) of blood are needed each week to cater for emergency and routine cases requiring transfusions and blood products in hospitals nationwide. Blood donors – new and existing – are especially needed at this time.
One arrest made after burglary GARDAI investigating an aggravated burglary in which a gun was held to the head of a seven-yearold child have made one arrest. The incident happened in Castleknock Close during an attack on the home of a Brazilian national who works at a local pub. It is believed the crime gang responsible dressed in garda high-vis jackets with one wearing a garda uniform fleece and hat.
14 December 2017 NORTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 7
DONABATE/PORTRANE | LOCALS ALARMED BY IMPACT AND SCALE OF CONSTRUCTION TRAFFIC
Lorries drive up traffic fears SYLVIA POWNALL CHAOS caused by construction traffic in Donabate and Portrane has been reported to the Road Safety Authority (RSA). Resident Diane Lawson says both motorists and pedestrians are “under siege with humungous lorries thundering through the village at all hours of the day and night”. Several housing developments, along with a major HSE capital project at St Ita’s hospital campus, have led to a huge rise in the number of lorries on the roads. In a complaint to the RSA, Diane warned: “I predict someone is going to be killed. Probably a small child as there are four schools down one road that currently has building sites off it.
“It is nothing less than a total scandal. Please help us feel safe where we live.” Diane cited several instances where she’d witnessed lorries driving at speed or on the wrong side of the road. She told Dublin Gazette: “One night I came around the corner to be met by the most gigantic lorry, covered in lights.
It stated: “This photo was taken yesterday coming home from school. The minimum standard requirement for footpaths in urban areas is 1.8 metres. “Many footpaths throughout Donabate are well below this minimum standard, including the footpaths near schools on
---------------------------------------------------------
‘It is nothing less than a total scandal. Please help us feel safe where we live.’ ---------------------------------------------------------
Local resident Diane Lawson
---------------------------------------------------------
It was well over the white line.” The SPDD (Supporting Proper Development in Donabate) group also raised concerns, posting a photo on its Facebook page of a lorry passing a group of schoolchildren (inset).
the Portrane Road. This is a serious health and safety issue.” Diane also raised her concerns with Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan, demanding action as “road traffic laws are being flouted on a daily basis”. She added: “Bad deci-
sions by the council’s planning department have led to this peninsula being extremely unsafe for the people who live here. “They gave permission for the developments to happen, all at the same time, on an area of land that has only one access road over a humpback rail bridge, which is situated on a bend. “The roads through the village are simply not wide enough to accommodate the size of the vehicles being driven down them at speed.” Cllr Adrian Henchy (FF) has raised the issue directly with developers, gardai and with Fingal County Council’s planning enforcement section. He said: “I am very much aware of the serious concerns with regard to the deplorable level of
debris, the overall condition of the road, and excessive speed that HGVs are driving through the village.” He revealed that council inspectors visited the Glaslinn site and supervised as gravel was laid at the entrance. Cllr Henchy said he hoped that construction of the long overdue distributor road, which will safely bypass the bridge, would help alleviate the problem. Contracts were signed yesterday (Wed) and work is due to start almost immediately. A spokesperson for Fingal County Council told Dublin Gazette work on the distributor road would only commence “following agreement of a comprehensive traffic management strategy with a view to minimising disruption”.
Image of children on narrow path beside lorry supplied and edited at Supporting Proper Development in Donabate SPDD’s Facebook page
T h e s p o ke s p e r s o n added: “The council’s inspectors continually monitor activity in the area to ensure compliance requirements are being adhered to.
“The Health and Safety Authority is the statutory body with responsibility for the administration and enforcement of health and safety on construction sites in Ireland.”
8 DUBLIN GAZETTE NORTH 14 December 2017
Out and About
Sophie and Matthew Smith The Under 9’s girls team. Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON
Darragh O’Loughlin and Eamonn Gargan with Santa
Festive fun with Santa at Fingallians GAA F
INGALLIANS GAA were in great festive spirit last week when Santa paid them a visit at their Christmas party. He gave special thanks to the team mentors, the parents and all the boys and girls who made 2017 such a great year for the club. His parting request was that all the boys and girls are in bed early on Christmas Eve and that everyone has a very, very happy Christmas and a peaceful new year.
Amy Mannion and Leah Rose
Gemma and Eve Connolly
14 December 2017 NORTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 9
Out and About
GAA star shines at Erin GoBragh
S
ANTA arrived in style at Erin Go Bragh with the help of Dublin Fire Brigade last week. And he wasn’t the only special guest, as AllIreland Dublin footballer Lauren Magee was on hand to present awards and medals at a special prize giving ceremony.
10 DUBLIN GAZETTE NORTH 14 December 2017
MALAHIDE | CHRISTMAS SHENANIGANS ON THE WAY TO HELP THE ROSS NUGENT FOUNDATION
An Elf-ully fun adventure to support local charity
SYLVIA POWNALL
THE pranksters behind a life-size Elf on the Shelf in Malahide have made a full confession about their madcap exploits. Consultants Martin Mills and Duncan McKenzie have been the talk of the town since they first donned a Christmas Elf suit to entertain locals two weeks ago. T he business par tners, both originally from Scotland, have been turning heads with a series of capers including being arrested for ‘shoplifting’, a police chase, a Rocky
video and taking ‘elfies’ with commuters on the DART. Martin told the Dublin Gazette: “We’ve been living in Malahide for ten years and we wanted to do something a bit different in the run up to Christmas to give something back to local businesses and raise money for charity. “We’re ‘ideas people’ and we would have a lot of crazy and silly notions. In this case, I think we’ve created a monster, to be honest. It’s great fun but we’re not getting any of our own work done.” The mischievous Elf
has an event booked ever y day from now until Christmas Eve and Martin revealed he’s in training for an ambitious spoof on the movie Titanic. He said: “Elf has been rehearsing on a boat with his arms outstretched, with a drone flying around filming the whole thing. It’s loopy from start to finish! “We’ve literally been everywhere and we’re getting a great response. “The chamber of commerce have offered to pay for a parking fairy for a day and the Grand Hotel have offered us a great prize for another
The late Ross Nugent
event. “On December 23, the Elf will be at the Park Run in Malahide where we’re aiming to get a record number of more than 582 participants.” It’s all in aid of the Ross Nugent Foundation which was set up after the 18-year-old from Malahide lost his battle with Ewings Sarcoma, a rare bone cancer, in 2010.
It was Ross’s wish that funds be raised to buy equipment for the oncology ward in Beaumont Hospital and his parents, Sandra and Don, set up the foundation in his name. Martin said: “We met with Sandra and Don four weeks ago and they loved the idea. They’ve been in to see us several times and we’re in contact daily. “The Elf is having a great time, but he’s going to be hitching a lift back to the North Pole on Christmas Eve to help Santa with all the toys. “He’ll be exhausted, but we’re trying to figure out his grand exit.” Follow the Christmas Elf at https://www.facebook.com/Malahide XmasElf/
‘DART extendsion to Balbriggan, Maynooth should be prioritised’ PROJECTS to extend DART services to Balbriggan and Maynooth should be given higher priority, according to local politicians. Fine Gael TD Alan Farrell said he was “frustrated” that the project to Balbriggan serving Donabate, Rusk, Lusk and Skerries had not been advanced. He revealed that in response to his query, the National Transport Authority said limited design work had been carried out “due to funding constraints over the last few years”. There have also been calls to link in with Maynooth which would serve commuters in Dublin 15.
Council to allocate €64,000 for disadvantaged urban areas GRANTS totalling €64,000 for disadvantaged urban areas will be allocated by Fingal County Council’s local community development committee. The money was awarded as part of the RAPID (Revitalising Areas by Planning, Investment and Development) Scheme 2017. Mayor Cllr Mary McCamley said: “We see that some areas of Fingal have less services and resources than others and this funding will contribute to addressing this to allow residents of urban areas access greater opportunities within their own communities.” Locally-based community and voluntary groups in disadvantaged urban areas will be considered eligible to apply. Capital projects only will be considered.
Sharing an ‘Elfie’ at Avoca – just one of a number of ways the lifesize Christmas Elf has brightened up the area
14 December 2017 NORTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 11
PEOPLE | LOCAL WOMAN’S ACT OF KINDNESS HELPS TO CHANGE REFUGEE’S LIFE FOR THE BETTER
Baldoyle bliss for Syrian SYLVIA POWNALL A BALDOYLE woman who offered a room in her house to a Syrian refugee has told how he loves living beside the seaside – and is now like one of the family. Mary O’Reilly signed up to the Irish Red Cross register of pledges earlier this year and in July 26-year-old Wassim moved into her home overlooking Dublin Bay. Wassim, whose village near the Lebanese border was bombed, had never seen the sea before and loves to sit outside admiring the view with a cup of coffee. Mary revealed: “I have a house here with a spare room and I heard somebody say ‘The only difference between them and us is luck’ and it is, it’s just luck. “It could have been me, you
know, so it was conscience. “I kind of felt they were running for their lives; I felt it was the right thing to do, and I’ve been blessed in everything I have.” Wassim – who gave his family tours of Mary’s home and the impressive views via FaceTime when he first arrived – has settled in well with Mary and Lolly the Tibetan Terrier. He said: “I have two buses, the 32 and 29, which go into town from here and the train station is very close as well. Mary’s house is very lovely; it’s by the sea and it’s very nice inside.” Wassim’s village of AlZabadani was destroyed in the war and his father had to abandon his construction and agriculture business. He said: “Nobody lives there now; all the houses and everything are gone.” The family left for Lebanon in
2013 and in January 2016 Wassim and his 17-year-old cousin Rami crossed into Turkey and made their way to Greece via a treacherous Mediterranean crossing by boat. When he first came to Ireland, he stayed in Balseskin Reception Centre before moving to the former Jesuit university in Hatch Hall where he started to study English. He now works in an Arabic restaurant in Temple Bar and is pursuing his studies with the aim of completing a degree in technology. Wassim says he has not experienced racism, adding: “Before I came to Ireland I didn’t know anything about Irish people, but when I arrived I found Irish people very friendly. “A man on O’Connell Street started speaking to me because I was looking to the river – I was lost. He asked: “Where are you
from?’ and I told him ‘I am from Syria’ and he said ‘Oh, you’re welcome in Ireland’ and he hugged me. “That was very nice, so after that I felt very lucky that I came to Ireland, because of the friendly people.” Mary, who took redundancy from her job with Irish Life to look after her mother, helps Wassim with letterwriting and gives him directions when he needs to go out. He loves to cook and the injection of Middle Eastern culture is welcome as Mary samples his home-made humous and Syrian bread. She said: “I love different cultures and I would love to have gone to Damascus. “Maybe it’s just me, maybe it’s my nature, but lots of people take in an Irish person. What’s the difference – are we not all the same?”
Mary O’Reilly, Wassim and Lolly the Tibetan Terrier. Picture: CJ Nash
The Irish Red Cross has facilitated the placement of Syrian and Iraqi refugees and since August 2017 has placed 65 refugees into housing. Under the relocation strand of the Irish Refugee Protection Programme 17 flights with 693 migrants have landed in Dublin. By the end of the year the Irish Red Cross hopes to have 80 refugees placed into accommodation here.
12 DUBLIN GAZETTE NORTH 14 December 2017
Out and About
Lucy and Katie O’Moore
Isabella Irvine, Faye Muir, Sarah Irvine and Layla Horden
Festive fun at The Fingal Liam Rodgers Centre Mirren Fennell visiting Santa. Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON
T
HERE was huge excitement as local families flocked to the newly-opened Fingal Liam Rodgers Centre in Kinsealy as it hosted a Christmas Community Day last week. There was plenty of festive fun to be had with face painting, a Christmas disco and Santa’s Grotto for the children to get a chance to talk to the man in red and tell him all about their Christmas wishes.
Helping schools with low cost IT equipment
DUBLIN Gazette teamed up with Rehab Recycle to offer readers the chance to nominate a school to win a laptop or pc. Rehab Recycle is one of the largest employers of people with disabilities in Ireland and works to promote an equal and integrated workforce through social enterprise. Rehab Recycle actively repurpose electronic IT equipment, such as laptops and desktops which are received through the corporate donations scheme PromiseIT to Rehab Recycle, who supply schools and community groups with high quality laptops
and desktops. We received an overwhelming response, with so many worthy schools across Dublin nominated. The lucky winner was Sacred Heart of Jesus National School in Huntstown, Dublin 15. Pictured here receiving the laptop with then Dublin Gazette Group Editor Aengus O’Hanlon is Ian Styles from prize sponsors Rebab Recycle, Mr Kieran Lyons Sacred Heart of Jesus NS Principal, Mr Jonathan Hanley 5th class teacher, Sinead Joyce parents committee and Dinu Postolache & Amber Murphy 5th class students.
Grace and Kate Beausang with Caoimhe and Meabh Tracey
7 December 2017 NORTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 13
Out and About
Tom and Yvonne Malone. Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON
Rachel Allen, Cian Fahy, Aaron Fahy, Florrie Culliane and John Fahy
Rachel cooks up a storm at GAA club T
HE annual JW Smyth Christmas cookery demonstration held at Naomh Mearnog GAA Club was a sellout with special guest Rachel Allen. With a complimentary cheese and wine reception, fabulous food stalls and fantastic raffle prizes, the night was a huge success in raising funds for the juvenile development of the club.
Karen Scanlon and Karen Price
Fabulous festive gift launched LUSK Tidy Towns committee launched their annual Christmas card and calendar at Murray’s pub in Lusk. The launch was performed by TD Darragh O’Brien and was attended by committee members and local public representatives. Pictured are Nina Flynn, Pat Kelly, Darragh O’Brien and Albert Cruise.
GAZETTE
14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017
DUBLINBUSINESS
Students take first steps on career ladder STUDENTS from three Dublin schools recently
Beaumont. Special guest Jason
graduated from the
Sherlock congratulated
Junior Achievement Ire-
the students on taking
land (JAI) Career Ready
their first steps in to the
programme.
world of work. He also
The programme was
emphasised the impor-
hosted by Citi on North
tance of role models and
Wall Quay, Dublin 1.
of achieving your goals.
To mark the comple-
“The guidance and
tion of the two-year pro-
encouragement of men-
gramme, the students
tors and role models
were joined by business
really can make a
It was an early start for the Failte Ireland’s Dublin Convention Bureau when they held their Christmas Breakfast Briefing at the CityWest
mentors, representa-
profound difference in
Hotel. Pictured, left to right, were Sam Johnston, manager of Failte Ireland’s Dublin Convention Bureau; David Meade, inspirational speaker;
tives of supporting
a young person’s life. I
Paul Mockler, head of commercial development, Failte Ireland; and Sean Reid, commercial director, of the CityWest Hotel
organisations, and
know this from my own
former Dublin GAA star
personal experience,”
Jason Sherlock.
he said.
Conventions to boost local economy by €64m
Career Ready devel-
“To the participating
ops students’ potential
students I say take the
by pairing them with a
skills and confidence you
mentor for 18 months.
have gained from Career
The youngsters also
Ready and build on them,
visit workplaces, attend
allow the programme to
master classes and
be the catalyst for you to
complete work place-
fulfil your potential.
ments. The overall aims of the JAI Career Ready initiative are to help stu-
“With the right attitude you can do anything you set your mind to.” The Career Ready
dents to recognise their
mentors, master
potential, to develop
classes, and school-to-
their employability skills,
work visits were pro-
support their academic
vided by A & L Goodbody,
work and introduce
Accenture, Amundi, BNY
them to the world of
Mellon, Citi, Core Media,
work.
Dell, Deloitte, Diageo,
The 2015-2017 cohort
EisnerAmper Ireland,
comprised of 29 stu-
Gaiety School of Acting,
dents from St. Paul’s
LinkedIn, JLL, Lloyds
CBS, North Brunswick St;
Bank, Manpower, Pfizer,
Loreto College, Crumlin;
SQS, Standard Life, and
and Our Lady of Mercy,
TV3.
FAILTE Ireland’s Dublin Convention Bureau has revealed that new business worth €64m has been won for Dublin so far in 2017. The announcement was made at their Christmas Breakfast Briefing in the CityWest Hotel last Thursday. The revenue boost was a result of winning 150 new conferences for the city and county. The events will bring almost
45,000 extra visitors to Dublin between 2018 and 2021. Among the notable conference wins is the cyclist gathering, Velo City. Around 2,000 delegates are expected to attend the European Cyclists’ Federation convention in 2019, boosting the Dublin economy by €3.2 million. Also taking place in 2019 is the World Science Fiction Convention, or World Con, and
the 5,000 or so sci-fi fans who will flock to Dublin will generate around €8m for local businesses. While in 2020, a cash injection of €1.3m is expected when 800 people attend the European Federation of Periodontology’s 3rd Master Clinic. Sam Johnston, manager of Failte Ireland’s Dublin Convention Bureau said: “I am delighted that the Dublin Convention
Enterprise Ireland launches fund to help firms tackle Brexit challenges ENTERPRISE Ireland has launched a new fast-track Agile Innovation Fund to give companies rapid access to innovation funding. The new measure has been introduced by Enterprise Ireland for companies to respond more quickly to market opportunities and challenges, including those posed by Brexit. Offering fast-track approval and a streamlined online application process, Enterprise Ireland’s new Agile Innovation Fund will allow companies to access up to 50% in support for product, process or service development projects with a total cost of up to €300,000. A survey of 2,000 Enterprise Ireland clients in 2016 found
that those who availed of innovation supports (specifically capability, funding and collaboration support) reported on average a 67% growth in global sales. Julie Sinnamon, Enterprise Ireland CEO, said: “In the context of Brexit, investment in Irish innovation will prove to be a key driver of global growth for Irish companies, helping them to diversify their product base, be competitive, and allow them to build their scale and reach into new markets. “Historically, Enterprise Ireland client companies who have received funding to build their innovation capability have seen tangible exponential growth in their global sales performance.
“Investment in innovation delivers for businesses. “Enter prise Ireland has designed and tailored this new fund to precisely meet the needs of Irish companies – substantial financial support for innovation, localisation and product development, a streamlined online application and a fast-track approval process. “Enterprise innovation is a key differentiator in competitive markets and Enterprise Ireland’s Agile Innovation Fund will assist companies in their innovation agenda. “This fund will enable many Irish companies to respond quickly and effectively to the challenges posed for their business by Brexit.”
Bureau has hit its target for 2017. We have worked extensively throughout the year to bring available international business to Dublin. “Indeed, looking ahead we are forecasting strong growth for 2018 and in fact we are currently targeting business as far out as 2026. Dublin is and will continue to be a competitive and attractive place to hold international events.”
Women can get their start-ups off to real flier APPLICATIONS have opened for Dublin City University’s prestigious Female High Fliers accelerator programme. Run by the DCU Ryan Academy for Entrepreneurs, the 13-week programme supports Ireland’s most promising female-led start-ups. Previous High Flier graduates include Ciara Garvin, founder, Work Juggle (2017); Pamela Newenham, cofounder, GirlCrew (2016); Mary O’Brien, co-founder, Video Doc (2016); and Ciara Donlon, founder and CEO, Theya Healthcare (2015). The closing date for applications is January 23. See www.ryanacademy.ie/ portfolio/female-high-fliers.
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DUBLINLIFE
14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15
Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
FAMILIES: THE COOLEST CHRISTMAS ATTRACTION IN TOWN IS BACK AT THE RDS
Have an ice time at Funderland FAMILIES across the city are looking forward to an extra sprinkle of Christmas magic over the coming months, thanks to Winter Funderland. The beloved Dublin institution is now running from today (Thursday, December 14) until next January 14, with organisers promising an even bigger and better experience than ever. In addition to a terrific range of activities that really put the fun in Funderland, a Christmas market and ice skating rink are in
place to make Funderland the coolest place to be this Christmas. For kids of all ages, but especially for children, dozens of attractions from all across Europe have been brought together at the Simmonscourt Pavilion in the RDS, where Funderland is welcoming people of all ages to join in the fun. The all-new Santa’s Family Roller Coaster is just one of the thrilling experiences awaiting visitors, with some family favourites also ready and waiting to whisk, whirl,
twirl and thrill everyone. This year’s Christmas market, and pretty wooden chalets, offer plenty of treats and trinkets to help find the perfect gift for loved ones (or even just for yourself), while the iSkate-on-ice – Ireland’s largest 1,000 sq m outdoor skating rink – will slip and slide right into the top spot in many visitors’ list of favourites. Funderland has been a highlight of Christmas for Dubs for decades, with the addition of new rides and even more great attractions
promising to make it a hit with all ages for many more years to come. With a range of price points, from wristbands to traditional pay-per-ride options, the organisers have done their best to create an affordable and varied experience for everyone, all under one roof. For further information, including the full list of rides and attractions, see w w w.winter funderland. ie, or call 01 485 3045; for group bookings call 01 685 2439.
People of all ages are in for a real treat, with organisers adding a giant outdoor ice rink to the fun family favourite
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16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017
DUBLINLIFE
ON THE RED-CARPET: ADULT LEARNERS’ FESTIVAL 2018 WILL OPEN WITH AWARDS CEREMONY
Aontas launches search for new galaxy of STARs AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation, is seeking nominations from adult learning initiatives in Dublin for the 12th Annual STAR Awards 2018. The awards recognise the use of innovative approaches in adult and community education. Speaking about the awards, Niamh O’Reilly, Chief Executive Officer of AONTAS, said: “Adult learning is essential to both economic success and to personal, social
and cultural development. “ Eve r y y e a r, t h e STAR Awards are a fantastic occasion to highlight and celebrate the positive impact adult and community education have on the lives of learners around Ireland. “Our award categories focus on promoting wellbeing, social inclusion, digital inclusion, and ensuring that the learner’s voice is heard. “These award categories highlight the huge positive impact adult
and community education have on an individual, their family and the wider community.” Since its inception in 2007, more than 1,000 adult learning initiatives in the arts, mental health, addiction, and disability have been recognised through the STAR Awards. For 2018, nominations are invited under four categories: Adult L e a r n i n g I n i t i a t i ve s that Promote Wellbeing, Adult Learning Initiatives that Promote
Digital Inclusion, Adult Learning Initiatives that Promote Social Inclusion, and Adult Learning Initiatives that Promote the Learner Voice To n o m i n a t e a n adult learning initiative, please visit: www. adultlearnersfestival. awardsplatform.com. The deadline for receipt of nominations is December 14. Winners will be announced at the STAR Aw a r d s c e r e m o ny, which will be the opening event of the Adult Learners’ Festival 2018 in Dublin. The festival begins on March 5 and runs until March 9.
GOING FOR IT WITH €300,000 IN GRANTS A TOTAL of 1,118 groups across Ireland are celebrating the awarding of grants to fund physical activity for older people.
The Go for Life National Grant Scheme from Age & Opportunity and Sport Ireland last week announced grants totalling almost €300,000. The aim of the grants is to improve the health and wellbeing of older people across the country by providing them with opportunities to engage in physical activity and sport. Groups benefitting this year include Men’s Sheds, ICA guilds, active retirement groups, local sports partnerships, sports clubs, family resource centres, and many others who provide older people with opportunities to get active. Announcing the successful grantees at the Ballybough Community Centre, Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Brendan Griffin said: “Over the last 17
years, the National Grant Scheme funding has supported and empowered thousands of groups of older people to get more active more often and the record number of applications this year shows the continued importance of the scheme for groups throughout the country. “Programmes like Go for Life, funded by Sport Ireland, will help us reach the targets set out in the National Physical Activity Plan and approximately 30,000 people nationwide will take part in the activities funded by the grants. “ The scheme has awarded over €5.5million in almost 12,000 grants during its lifetime. This year saw a record number of applications and of grants awarded. The number of groups applying continues to grow since the launch of the scheme in 2001.
BEAT COLD TURKEY ON CHRISTMAS DAY A DUBLIN psychology clinic has launched a free service for people with a fear of turkey. The D4 Psychology Clinic in Blackrock, which specialises in clinical hypnotherapy, recently hit the headlines when they helped people overcome their fear of clowns when the horror movie IT was released. After a woman from Manchester beat her turkey fear with hypnosis, the clinic is offering a free online session for anyone with a similar phobia. Speaking about the free service psychologist, Jason O’Callaghan said: “This is not just about a fear of turkey which stops people enjoying Christmas dinner. It’s an issue called
The All Ireland Public Speaking Champions 2017 were Kings of the Hill 16. Pictured, from left, were Teresa Mackin from sponsors Triace Hardware, Macra na Feirme national president James Healy, with competition winners Bryan Tully, Sally Rochford and Grace Stenson
14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17
selective eating disorder. This is a gagging relax that happens when you try new foods. “Most of these clients live on chips or chicken nuggets or pizza. “They have a fear of eating foods like turkey in case they choke. “ We h ave h e l p e d countless people using hypnosis. “One lady lived on potato waff les and another man lived on spaghetti hoops. “Both were cured with one session. If anyone wants a free downloadable session to overcome this just contact us at The D4 Clinic.” For more information see www.D4Clinic.ie.
IT’S THE RIGHT ONE FOR ABBEY THEATRE THE Abbey Theatre has announced two weeks of extra dates for their
main winter season production, Let the Right One In. The world-class creative team behind the production includes Tony and Olivier awardwinning director John Tiffany and two-time BAFTA Award-winning writer Jack Thorne, who are also the creators of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Let the Right One In is adapted from John Ajvide Lindqvist’s original Swedish novel and film of the same name It is a tender, funny and brutal love story about the friendship between a lonely teenager called Oskar and a centuries-old but eternally young vampire named Eli who moves in next door. The pair forge a deep connection until a series of mysterious killings
GAZETTE
DIARY tests their relationship. Tickets for teens are €13 with prices ranging from €13-€45 during the run available from abbeytheatre.ie.
TOP MACRA PRIZE FOR HILL 16 CLUB D U B L I N ’ S H i l l 16 Macra club picked up a top prize at the AllIreland final of Macra’s P ublic Speaking and Impromptu Public Speaking competitions last weekend. The competition was sponsored by Triace Hardware Specialists. Macra na Feirme National President James Healy said: “Well done to all our speakers, these competitions are a great way for our members to grow accustomed to speaking in a public forum and I would like to thank Triace for their continued support.”
Young Ballymun, which helps parents improve their child’s literacy, was previously shortlised for a STAR Award
18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017
Out and About
Carmel Breheny and Maia Dunphy
Pictured are Elaine Diffley, Jill Wright and Audrey Taylor. Pictures: Shane O’Neill, SON Photographic
Kicking the Christmas season off in style O
Kayleigh Cullinan and Orla Molloy and Aoife Donohoe
Paul Williams
Anna Daly
Mary Power and Tracey Moran
VER 320 guests kicked the Christmas season off in style at the Newstalk Christmas Lunch in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation in the Shelbourne Hotel last week. The lunch raised over €30,000 for the Foundation’s cancer programmes and services which are offered free of charge to men and women all over Ireland. Newstalk presenter Shane Coleman was MC for the event.
Yvonne Joy, Carmel O’Shea, Lisa Kwik
Gary Keating, Valerie Keating and Conor McAllister
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14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19
FEATURE
Local hero Suzanne sowing seeds of success in garden MARK O’BRIEN VOLUNTEERING can be one of the most rewarding things a person can do. Whether it’s giving up your time for a charity, a sports club or a local event, volunteers are the unsung heroes that make our communities the vibrant places they are. O n e D u b l i n wo m a n w a s recently recognised for the outstanding work she does in her local community. Suzanne O’Neill was named as the winner in the Animals and Environment category at the Volunteer Ireland Awards. The awards aim to shine a light on the remarkable work of volunteers around the country by celebrating them on a national level. Suzanne has been volunteering in the Community Garden in Sean Walsh Park in Tallaght for over seven years, using her expertise to give advice and guidance on maintaining the garden,
which is a social outlet and safe space for those in unemployment or who are retired. Speaking to Dublin Gazette this week, Suzanne paid tribute to those people and modestly credited them for her achievement. “I was absolutely over the moon but the award was for everybody here in the garden,” she said. “I’m just standing back in the shed at the moment, looking over at the polytunnel and they’re in there and we’re having a party and my heart is full of pride looking at all of them because they’re such a wonderful group of people.” Through Suzanne’s teachings the participants have seen how things can grow and they are able to harvest the fruits of their labours. Ever y month she delivers wo r k s h o p s i n t h e c o m m u nity garden on different topics including floristry, making hanging baskets, vegetable window boxes, composting, garden
design, plants for the different seasons, and maintenance. She said that it’s heartening to see the effect that growing plants has on the group. “What they grow, they’re nurturing a plant and they’re nurturing something and then in return it’s nurturing them.” The group have utilised the polytunnel in the garden to grow melons, tomatoes, and pumpkins and Suzanne has even provided recipes to include the produce that the participants have grown. Suzanne said that she has gained as much as the participants from volunteering at the garden. “I used come out of the job that I was paid in and I used to cry with stress,” she said. “But ever y Wednesday I’d come out into the garden volunteering and my heart would sing so volunteering really has given me a lot as well.” The Community Garden in Sean Walsh Park is open from 11am to 1pm every Wednesday and all are welcome to attend.
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Suzanne O’Neill, top right, recently scooped the top award in the Animals and Environment category at the Volunteer Ireland Awards for the selfless work she does in maintaining the Community Garden at the Sean Walsh Park, above left and right, in Tallaght
I used come out of the job that I was paid in and I used to cry with stress. But every Wednesday I’d come out into the garden volunteering and my heart would sing so volunteering really has given me a lot as well -----------------------------------
14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21
DUBLINLIFE
MUSIC
N O S ’ T A H W
JAMES HENDICOTT PUNK two-piece Vulpynes are only three singles old, but already look a good bet for Dublin music’s next big thing. So what has the lairy pair making waves in London and Berlin? DUBLINERS VULPYNES had an inauspicious start. Formed after drummer/ vocalist Kaz Millar placed an advert on Boards.ie looking to form a band (future partner in crime Maeve Molly McKernan was the first to reply), the post eventually resulted in a four-piece. They played only covers, and lasted mere days. Millar and McKernan had felt something click, though, and after a brief search for a bassist, decided to start making original material, and to go it alone. Their sound takes much of its inspiration from the 90s. It’s raw, nodding distinctly to acts like Hole, Alice in Chains, L7 and Soundgarden. Riddled with reverb, abrasive and fearless, it comes from a band dynamic that was very much full speed ahead from the off. “We started off really determined,” McKernan recalls. “We were just eager to play, and took any gig we were offered. It’s a mentality we’ve kind of continued with. We want to play live, and the more people see us, the more people know us. “It’s a word of mouth thing. With the UK shows, we reached out to promoters the first time around, and since then we’ve been invited back to do shows. We’re going to Berlin this month, too, and back to the UK in 2018.” While relatively underground at least for the uninitiated (it’s based largely around a small handful of labels and venues, though there are surprisingly numerous bands), Dublin has long had a powerful and closeknit punk scene, based around lairy nights out, an enticing community spirit and supportive culture. “It’s a really friendly community of bands,” McKernan explains. “They really want to help each other out, and they love music. It’s that community where we feel at home, and we’ve found it so welcoming. Everyone’s so genuine, with a real community spirit with no back stabbing, and we love it.” While they connected specifically on order to form the band, the stories of Millar and McKernan’s journeys with punk are surprisingly similar. McKernan’s mum introduced her to bands like L7 and Hole at a young age, and now shows her support for Vulpynes by drawing, producing stunning illustrations of the pair as skeletons, or foxes. Millar’s older sister channeled Nirvana and Alice in Chains into her life. Much of the band’s creative spark now happens in a practise room in Whitehall. Shared with several other bands, the space is “too hot in summer and too cold in winter,” but enough to allow the pair to work.
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20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017
E D I U G S T N EVE
with JAMES HENDICOTT
BIMM End of Term Gig
See some of the rock stars of the future as Dublin’s finest music college puts on its end of term show on December 14 at the Button Factory, Temple Bar. They’re keeping the line up under wraps, but it’s a bargain at €5 in (or free for alumni).
Christmas Sing Along at Teelings
Do you love your Christmas carols and cheesy winter pop? Why not join those of a similar humbug-busting bent at THE DETROIT RAPPER RE TURNS Teelings to scream that at ALBUM OF THE WEEK WITH OUR the top of your lungs, and try and win a few prizes? December 17.
Dublin Comic Arts Festival
A change from the usual seasonal fare with a market for independent comics coming to the loveable Token in Smithfield, on December 17. There’s also workshops and talks. You might not have heard of them, but they’re great.
Leinster v Exeter Chiefs
Dublin’s heroes take on the reigning English Champions at the Aviva, the second of a double header over the Christmas season that’s sure to be fiery, and go a long way to deciding Leinster’s top-class Champions Cup group. December 17.
Citywise Winter Wonderland
Santa, Elves, gingerbread men, carol singing, photos and pictures in the sleigh as the Winter Wonderland returns to Citywise Education in Jobstown on December 16 & 17 and 17th. Time for some last gasp Santa fun?.
Swords Castle Christmas Food Fare The songs come together quickly. “We normally write lyrics first. I’m constantly scribbling verses,” McKernan tells us. “Then riffs, and Kaz adds her magic, cutting through it. That we’re done in a couple of hours is a nice uncomplicated reality for a two piece. I like my guitar to sound distorted, but not too hazy, not too muddy.” So far, the singles have been a stark statement. ‘OCD’ is a brash if oddly positive ode to the condition, with abrasive riffs and throat-battering lyrics. ‘Terry Said’ is a little less direct, written about a stranger in a Dublin bar, with almost sneeringly dank choruses. The newest release, ‘Silica’ is the best yet, unapologetically in your face and bitter, with deeptoned chords that almost twist McKernan’s guitar into a bass-like snarl. “The two piece thing does seem to be kind of fashionable,” the pair admit, “but we
never planned it, it’s just how things worked out. I love the White Stripes, because they’re not afraid to just write good songs, they never try to fill up something that isn’t there. “They’re just good songs. We’d relate more to them then someone like Royal Blood, who just sound a bit overproduced to us. We’re really as raw sounding as possible. That’s what we want to do, and it’ll be the same when we come to doing an album.” The future is bright for the pair, and in the short term will see the boisterous two-piece playing extensively over Christmas and New Year, including a Hot Press showcase in January. “We have a few plans for the New Year, but we don’t really plan too far ahead,” McKernan tells us. “We’re always very busy, but we like it that way. We noticed the other day that it’s been almost six months since we put out a single,
back in July, and it’s just flown by. We’re going to try and get something physically released next year. The next step is an EP, probably in the first quarter or so of the year, and probably a video, too.” In passing, McKernan mentions two key chords on which she bases much of her guitar part. It’s an aesthetic, of course, but also distinctly punk rock, about being raw, direct and sticking to a tone as much as delivering a melody. The passion for their project is clear to see in everything the duo say. As a well known twist on the old saying goes, ‘love is like punk: not dead’. Whatever the pair do, it’s sure to be done with passion. The result is one noisy, relentless party. Catch Vulypnes at the Dando Christmas Sessions, Fibber Magees, December 30, or at the Hot Press Tramlines show on January 15.
A visit to the beautiful Swords Castle is always a worthwhile adventure, but with this host of seasonal stalls dropping in for the weekend, there’s now a nice munch on offer, too. Why wouldn’t you? December 16 and 17.
Guided Walks at the National Botanic Gardens
Explore Christmas-loving plants at one of the city’s most beautiful gardens, as the staff put on a walk to explore the seasons for €5 per person. Ask at the visitor centre for information.
The Strypes
The young rockers who’ve found levels of acclaim that have seen them play Slane and complete a Japanese tour as barely post-teens. The Strypes won’t be playing venues as small as Whelan’s for much longer. December 21.
New album of the week
Eminem - Revival The Detroit rapper might have been taking it slow for a while now, but his pre-Christmas return in ‘Revival’ - his first album since 2013 - is sure to make a splash, especially as Ed Sheeran, Beyonce and Pink appear as guests.
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22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017
DUBLINLIFE
How to feast on Christmas turkey and trimmings and still keep trim DID you know.... On Christmas Day people can eat and drink their way through up to 6,000 calories - that’s up to three times what we need in an average day. When it comes to Christmas, most of us expect to gain at least a few extra pounds and hope to shed them in the New Year, but for those seriously trying to lose weight or maintain weight loss, Christmas can be a trying time. So, the people at the Irish Nutrition and Dietetics Institute, have put together some tips to help you through the festive season. Don’t starve yourself Over Christmas it’s better to aim to keep weight steady than to try to actively lose it. There is nothing like avoiding every bit of party food to bring on the urge to give up the whole diet and splurge. Have a little of what you fancy. Pick one or two parties over Christmas where you can indulge - but keep it to just one or two - and remem-
ber Christmas Day counts as one! Choose wisely Between work and family many of us have more than one party to go to and, at this time of year, the food tends towards the high fat and stodgy or the sugary and sweet. Start by having some of the lower calorie options salads, fruit and bread before you head for the sausage rolls and mince pies. Be careful what you buy Christmas is a great excuse to fill up the shopping trolley with tins of biscuits and boxes of sweets but who is going to end up eating them? If you are only having guests over for one day at Christmas, buy just what you need for that day. You don’t need to stock-
pile goodies ‘just in case’. You could also buy healthier nibbles such as satsumas and other seasonal fruits such as mango, unsalted nuts or chestnuts as they are the only low fat nut, reduced fat crisps, popcorn or pretzels, dried fruit such as dates, figs or apricots, bread sticks with tomato salsa or low-fat yoghurt dips. Plan Ahead As most of us are very busy during December, we may be tempted to opt for take-aways and junk food. Having some standbys in the house can help. Beans on toast is a quick, nutritious meal or tr y stocking the freezer with cartons of fresh soups. If you are cooking dishes such as stews or casseroles, make some extra and freeze it and y o u d o n ’t h ave t o worry about cooking
Doing some extra walking or sessions at the gym will help to balance out the extra food you’re eating
FOOD&DRINK
People can eat and drink their way through up to 6,000 calories on Christmas Day
when you come in from a busy day. On Christmas Day For starters, try melon, other fresh fruits or smoked salmon. Homemade soup can be a warming low-calorie starter, try adding some seasonal butternut squash. Top with low fat creme fraiche and some fresh parsley rather than cream. Turkey meat is good, however avoid the skin as this is high in fat. W h e n roasting potatoes leave them
whole rather than cutting them small as the smaller they are the more fat they will absorb. Roast separately from the turkey to cut out the animal fat. Fill up on plenty of vegetables but avoid adding butter or rich sauces. Steam your vegetables rather than boil to hold on to those valuable vitamins and minerals. Gravy is a must for turkey but allow the juices to settle so you can skim off all fat before making. Use low fat custard or creme fraiche instead of cream or brandy butter with pudding. Try a fruit compote by stewing your favourite berries with plums and apples with a pinch of cinnamon. When you feel full, stop eating! Christmas Cheer We do more drinking at Christmas that at any other t i m e of the year a n d alcohol is a big problem if trying to keep your weight stable. Not only does it contain calories itself (one pint of beer has around 200 calories) it also leads to low blood sugar, which makes you feel hungrier. Try to have a glass of water for every second drink. This
will not only reduce the calories, but will also help the hangover. Mixing wine with mineral water is another way to cut back on calories. If you have a lot of parties to go to, try not to drink at all of them and bringing the car with you has the added benefit of not having to queue for taxis! Entertaining at home Appetisers don’t always have to be crisps and sausage rolls. Raw vegetables like carrots, celery and cauliflower chopped and served with dips such as salsa are tasty and low in calories, as are olives with thin slices of French bread. Have fruit-based desserts such as apple crumble and frozen yoghurt available as well as ice cream to go with it. If you are having traditional desserts like Christmas pudding, go for custard made with low-fat milk rather than cream. You are unlikely to be the only person watching your weight - your friends may thank you for thinking of lower calorie options. Get some exercise Most of us have a few days off over Christmas, which makes it a great time to get some exercise. Doing some extra walking or sessions at the gym will help to balance out the extra food you’re eating. Walking in the fresh air is also one of the best hangover cures - so now you have two reasons to get going.
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14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23
DUBLINFITNESS
CHECK OUT www.kickstartfitness.ie
NUTRITION: FORGET POPULAR FADS – A SENSIBLE DIET APPROACH BEARS LONG-TERM FRUITS
Some dietary hits and myths to be aware of in your foods Sinead McSorley is a qualified nutritionist with more than five years’ experience in the field. Sinead has a particular passion for the area of sports nutrition, and is currently undertaking a SINEAD MCSORLEY Masters in sports nutrition. info@dublingazette.com DID you know that by staying away from five particular foods you can lose the weight you want to within a week and never be hungry? And did you also know that drinking one glass of wine a day can give you the same health benefits as one hour of hard exercise? Oh, and before I forget, if you drink nothing but antioxidant-enriched juices for three to five days straight, you will never get sick! Does all that sound too good to be true? Well, that’s because it is! Unfor tunately, the diet, health and exercise community is rife with unsubstantiated claims and myths on how to lose weight, drop body fat and get that ‘summer body’. While most of the claims hyped in popular magazines and newspapers are just flat-out wrong or vastly overhyped, some do have a lot of truth to
them – so how do we know the difference? We look to science for the answers, that’s how! Most people don’t have hours (or years, in my case) to review all the literature, so I have broken it down into six key principles, as follows. These principles are based not only on research, but also backed on the scientific opinion of industry leaders whom I greatly respect.
1. Calorie balance The reality is calorie intake and body weight have a direct relationship with each other. Body weight is massively important to your health; being too high or too low will impact your everyday life. In terms of healthy eating for fat-loss, most people will get everything else right, they will buy the ‘health’ foods but they fail to get the calorie balance correct.
This is where you need to start.
2. Food composition While the number of calories you eat will be the biggest contributing factor to your body composition goal, there is a concept of ‘healthy’ foods, and it will benefit you in terms of long-term health to fill your calories with nutrient-dense foods. 3. Macronutrient amounts When constructing your food intake plan, ensure that you are consuming at least the minimum amounts of macro-nutrients, protein, fats and carbohydrates. Don’t allow certain ‘Interest groups’ to influence and demonise nutrients – we all need protein, fats and carbs, and none of these are bad for you. 4. Nutrient timing For the majority of us, three to five meals per day are what works best. We all lead busy lifestyles, and my advice is don’t stress over this, find what works for you and go with it. If you like three big meals a day, do that – but if smaller and more frequent meals work, then do that.
To promote energy and alleviate craving, try to space your meals out with an even spread of nutrients.
5. Hydration To be hydrated is to have enough body water to support life. How can you tell if you’re hydrated? Well, it’s easy – your urine should be clear, or a light yellow colour, and you should urinate in high volumes at regular times.
We’ve all heard of the Food Pyramid – but it’s also very useful to know of the Diet Circles, with a number of overlapping areas that provide a great way to focus on a sensible, healthy way to eat the foods that are best for you
6. Supplements Sort out principles 1-5, and in that order, and then look to your supplements. There are, however, some essentials, and I will cover them in another article. The take-home message It is impor tant to remember that health is both deteriorated by and improved by diet (very slowly). I believe that food should be enjoyed, not restricted, which is why our fat-loss plan produces great results that are maintained long-term. A good place to start on your healthy fat-loss journey is a good fat-loss plan – it’s much more than just a diet plan, it’s science.
While some people may be focused on getting a ‘beach body’, it’s much more important to focus on developing and then maintaining a healthy, balanced diet that suits your own body’s unique nutritional needs
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24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017
DUBLINMOTORING
FASTNews
Some of the team from Renault Ireland who rolled up their sleeves to help Crosscare deliver more than 600 packages in one day
Renault gears up for charity drive with Crosscare RENAULT Ireland has teamed up with social
support charity Crosscare to provide food and other important supplies to those in need this Christmas. A fleet of five Renault vans recently travelled around Dublin and Wicklow to collect donations of non-perishable items such as tinned food, soft drinks, cereals and toiletries. Twenty Renault Ireland staff then spent a full day packaging up the donations, which will be delivered by Crosscare to people in local communities in the run up to the festive season. The Crosscare team usually delivers 100 packages a week, but with the help of the Renault team, they delivered 600 packages in one day. Crosscare is a social support agency which provides a range of social care, community and youth work services across the whole of the Dublin Archdiocese. They provide 500,000 meals to those in need and continue to play a significant role in the provision of services to people affected by poverty in the Dublin area. Currently they employ over 500 staff with over 1,500 of volunteers in locations throughout the greater Dublin area and Wicklow.
Suzuki’s Swift can put a smile on your face in association with
Suzuki upgraded the Swift compact car during 2017 with improved performance and edging in some additional interior space to a smiling looking car design. The new car is lighter and more economical than in the past, while pitched higher in price than some of the mainstream competition, as MICHAEL MORONEY found out.
THERE’S something about the design and stance of the new Suzuki Swift that makes you want to smile. This is a car that feels it’s friendly towards you the moment you set eyes upon it; there’s a sort of Toy Story look to the Swift that’s part of its immediate appeal. Under that smiling design Suzuki have make some significant changes to make this new Swift a more appealing car. The new Swift is lighter and shorter than before and between engine design changes and the use of a new vehicle structure, Suzuki have shaved 100kg from the weight of this small car. So while the overall dimensions of the car are more compact, Suzuki has stretched the wheelbase, that is the distance
Suzuki Swift 1.0 Boosterjet Engine 1.0 litre Engine power 111hp 0 – 100km/hr 10 seconds Economy 20m/litre (5.0/100km or 56.5mpg) Fuel Tank Capacity 37 litres CO2 emissions 114g/km Road Tax Band A4 €200 Main Service 20,000km/12 months Euro NCAP Rating 4 Star (Safety Pack) Warranty 3 years/100,000km Entry Price €16,995 front to rear between the wheels, to give more internal space for the driver and passengers. There is a slightly wider feel to the new Swift so this compact city type car never feels cramped, unless you pack in four very large adults. Part of the new Suzuki Swift transformation
comes with some engine changes. The car gets a new 1.0 litre three-cylinder Boosterjet engine that’s lively to drive. This engine is rated at 111bhp, which is more powerful than some of the equivalent cars on the market and its acceleration pace impresses at 10 seconds in a 0 to 100km/
hr race. The Suzuki Boosterjet engine uses a combination of turbo-charging and direct inject to achieve this impressive performance. And that includes good torque which, in the automatic version that I drove, reaches its best at a low 1700rpm on the engine. This allows for smooth speed changes in the automatic version. I liked the six-speed gearbox, while it took a little getting used to. There is a D and M setting on the automatic gearbox lever, and it’s all too easy to engage M when really you want the convenience of D for drive, without having to move the lever again. The Swift is an economical little car, whether its city driving or longer distances, both of which it’s well able for. My test drive was just about 25% off the
rated economy figure of 20m/litre (5.0/100km or 56.5mpg) and that meant that I achieved a range of well over 500km on the full 37 litre capacity fuel tank. This tank capacity is lower than most of the competition, so expect to visit the petrol station that little bit more often. There is a SHVS mild hybrid version of the Swift available that gives even better fuel economy and a lower CO2 emission figure of 97g/km. The system also uses a compact high performance 12V lithiumion battery placed under the front passenger seat to
Jeep gets 2018 ready with competitive Compass AHEAD of its arrival in January, Jeep Ireland has revealed pricing and specification details for its latest SUV, the new Compass. And with a starting price of just €27,995 for the 120bhp 1.6-litre MultiJet diesel engine version, the new Compass is competitive. In Ireland, the Compass engine range includes three diesel engines and a petrol 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo engine, delivering 140bhp at 5,000 rpm in combination with the six-speed manual gearbox and 4x2 configuration. The diesel range comprises the efficient 1.6-litre MultiJet engine delivering 120bhp
at 3,750 rpm, as well as a 2.0-litre MultiJet engine delivering 140bhp at 3,750 rpm. Both of these engines are mated to the sixspeed manual transmission, with the latter coming in a 4x4 drive. A higher output version of the 2.0-litre MultiJet engine delivering 170bhp in combination with the nine-speed automatic transmission and 4x4 completes the engine offerings available on the new Compass. Three equipment levels of Jeep Compass are offered in Ireland: Sport, Longitude and Limited. The entry level Sport version’s standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy
wheels, LED tail lights, leather steering wheel with audio controls, air conditioning, cruise control, forward collision warning plus, lane departure warning plus and a 60/40 split folding rear seat. The new Compass is the first Jeep SUV to offer the new Uconnect system. This system has been improved to include enhanced processing power, faster start-up times and touch screens that display high-resolution graphics. The new Jeep Compass has attained a five-star Euro NCAP score and offers more than 70 available active and passive safety and security features.
The new Jeep Compass has a distinctive, contemporary design with a wide stance. Entry prices start at €27,995
14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25
in association with
The new Ford Transit Custom blends style with productivity FORD’S new Transit Custom one-tonne van has a fresh new design and claims enhanced productivity for businesses users. Powered by the Ford EcoBlue 2.0-litre diesel engine, Ford claims that the Transit Custom has been re-engineered to offer significant new features and capabili-
The new Transit Custom van
ties including a new ECOnetic
front-end design with three-bar Tran-
van variant delivering improved fuel
sit grille. The cabin area is completely
efficiency and 148 g/km CO2 emissions.
new and claims to offer the best-in-
Ford claims that this new engine
ergonomics, and easy connectivity with
and performance benefits compared to
SYNC 3 or MyFord Dock options.
the previous 2.2-litre diesel, with fuelThis new third generation Suzuki Swift is a lighter and more agile car for city driving with compact outer dimensions, while retaining good internal cabin space. Entry prices start at €20,995.
The dash layout for the Suzuki Swift is clear with analogue dials and a large centremounted infotainment screen and (right) the three-cylinder Boosterjet petrol engine
store energy and adding only 6.2kg to the overall weight of the car. The Swift’s compact outer dimensions can belie impressive interior space. Suzuki claims to have improved headroom in the rear and that was welcome for me as I brought home the Christmas tree after folding down the Swift’s rear seats. I was impressed that the car extended its load area so well, but it’s still shorter and less spacious than some of the
competition such as the new Ford Fiesta, Nissan Micra or Volkswagen Polo. The boot area was compromised not just in its smaller capacity but also by the fact that not only did it have no spare wheel, there wasn’t even a jack present. I was unfortunate to clip a sharp kerb nicking the Swift’s front tyre and without the necessary and basic tools I have no option but to call for tyre fitting help.
Luckily, I was near Roscommon town at the time and could locate a mobile tyre fitting service. There was an additional problem in that the Bridgestone 165/55 R16 tyre is a little uncommon, so the search for a replacement took some time. You simply never realise how important tyre size and availability are until stuck in my predicament. The Swift comes with claims of improved safety features and the higher
specification ‘Safety Pack’ version was the one that achieved the four-star Euro NCAP safety rating. The car is well equipped in a safety sense with six airbags, ABS brakes with EBD & brake assist, side impact protection beams, lane departure warning, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, tyre pressure monitor, hill hold control and high beam assist lighting. Entry prices for the new Suzuki Swift start at €16,995 which is reasonably competitive for a car that is more economical and better to drive than ever before. All versions come with air conditioning, DAB Radio, privacy glass, LED daytime running lights and Bluetooth fitted as standard on all new Swift models. If you opt for the six-speed automatic version then you add €4,000 to the price.
class stowage, improved comfort and
delivers significant cost of ownership
The new Transit Custom is the first
efficiency improved by up to 13% and
commercial vehicle to offer Intelligent
low-end torque enhanced by 20%. The
Speed Assist, a feature that could help
updated model offers a new ECOnetic
prevent drivers from exceeding speed
variant that delivers 148 g/km CO2
limits, and potentially from incurring
emissions and 5.7 l/100 km (49.6 mpg)
costly speeding penalties.
fuel efficiency, a further 6% improve-
It is available in two roof heights,
ment over the most efficient current
two wheelbase options, a gross vehicle
vehicle.
mass range from 2.6 tonnes to 3.4
The new Transit Custom has a new
tonnes offering payloads up to 1,450 kg.
Mini may go all-electric in US BMW may make its Mini brand all-electric in the US, according to new reports as the Germany car company looks for partners to lower the cost of electrifying the brand. BMW plans to launch an electric Mini in 2019 and the company has hinted that in the US market at least, Mini could become an entirely electric brand, aimed at urban consumers, according to a senior company executive and board member. Building smaller electric cars is challenging both in terms of financial costs, and because of the engineering problem of fitting batteries with sufficient range into a smaller car package. BMW builds Mini vehicles at its main factory in Oxford, England.
GAZETTE
26 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017
DUBLINLIFE Chantilly Lace Blouse Red €395
Exciting exhibition Hi! Fashion opens EMMA NOLAN Style Editor
AN exciting exhibition “Hi! Fashion” which explores and celebrates fashion design from Ireland and Japan hosted by the OPW, commissioned by the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCoI) and curated by Gemma A. Williams opened in Farmleigh Gallery on 1st December. Showcasing garments from ground-breaking fashion designers spanning six decades, the exhibition celebrates the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan. Hosted by the OPW in partnership with the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland, Hi! Fashion will feature works including a gown from the first collection by celebrated Irish designer Sybil Connolly who launched her couture line in 1957. It also presents the work of other internationally renowned Irish designers including John Rocha, recognised as one of this country’s best designers, Lainey Keogh who transformed the face of Irish knitwear and Úna Burke whose designs have been worn by Lady Gaga, Rihanna and Daphne Guinness amongst others. The exhibition will also include the work of Japanese visionary Issey Miyake, master tailor Yohji Yamamoto and Comme des Garçons who is responsible for dramatically changing what we think of as fashion. Garments have been sourced globally from museum collections, designer archives and collectors as well as newly created pieces. Curated by Williams and designed in collaboration with award-winning Irish design studio ROJI, Hi! Fashion is open at Farmleigh Gallery and will run until 29th April 2018.
SHE’S SO
Lovely EMMA NOLAN Style Editor
IRISH designer Catriona Hanly’s autumn winter collection is an opulent feast for the eyes. The beautiful campaign was shot at Kilronan Castle in Roscommon and features a range of statement blouses. The blouses, which are composed of Chantilly lace and silk organza, demonstrate the designer’s unique eye for rich fabrics, delicate textures and classic colour. An utterly feminine collection overall is juxtaposed by the introduction of some tuxedo style tailoring – in keeping with the demands of the year. Loved by celebrities from both Ireland and further afield, Catriona Hanly is stocked in the Design Centre, Havana Boutique and Emporium Kalu. Visit catrionahanly.com.
14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27
GAZETTE
STYLE
Benefit PoreFessional pearl primer €34
NYX Professional Make Up Slide On Lip Pencil €8
Inglot eyelashes €10
Inglot eyeliner gel €15
Coco Blouse €395
Catrice The Ultimate Chrome Collection Eyeshadow Palette 010, €5.50
Catrice IcoNails Gel Lacquer 05 IT’S ALL ABOUT THAT RED, €2.95
Delarom Rich Lip Balm 15ml, €18
Catrice Strobe to Glow Highlighter Stick 010, €4.95 Karina jacket €495 and trousers €295
NYX Professional Makeup Wonder Stick – Highlight & Contour €14
ON the twelfth day of Christmas myself gave to me… Keep your make up bag topped up and bursting with silly season must haves for the many nights out of December. Our top picks include a number of affordable products, from highlighters to lipliners, to keep you looking glam for your Christmas party...
Benefit Bigger and Bolder brow set €38.50
Chantilly cream blouse €395
Ivy blouse €295
Catrice Liquid Lip Powder 030, €4.50
He-Shi Bronze Me Beautiful Gift Set €25
GAZETTE
28 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017
DUBLINLIFE ReelReviews
DISASTER ARTIST It’s anything but...
TOMMY Wiseau’s 2003 film, The Room, has gone down in history as one of the (unintentionally) worst films ever made – and The Disaster Artist (Cert 15A, 105 mins) delivers a hilariously entertaining look at how the titanic turkey came about. James Franco excels in this labour of love, as he portrays the eccentric, one-of-a-kind actor-director while he created his infamous contribution to cinema.
An extended family’s refined, wealthy surface masks some unpleasant realities in director Michael Haneke’s latest
BATTLE OF THE SEXES
HAPPY END: CALAIS-SET FAMILY DRAMA IS A BITING BUT BRILLIANT SATIRE
A oui bit cold and cruel
THERE’S no love lost in this bitterly dark satire from acclaimed director Michael Haneke. Happy End (Cert 15A, 107 mins) is set against the Calais refugee crisis, although unfolding as it does around the drama of an upper-middle class family, you’d be forgiven for overlooking the factual backdrop. Targeting the apathy and deep-seated indifference of higher society, Haneke revisits the thematic threads that have linked all his work – actually, Happy End is a sequel of sorts to the Oscar-winning Amour (2012), which was also nabbed the Palme D’Or at Cannes, Haneke’s second time securing the prestigious award. However, as much as it
MARTIN MACNAMARA
works through the Austrian director’s preferred subjects – racial tension, social apathy, familial strife, suicide and euthanasia (hefty subjects, to say the least) – Happy End is also, shockingly enough, a wickedly funny film. Those familiar with Haneke’s work may indeed be astounded; his is an oeuvre that rarely takes time to offer any humour. Here, one can’t help but laugh at the trivial dramas of contemporary Europe-
an affluence in the midst of an era-defining crisis. Jean-Louis Trintingent and Isabelle Huppert return to the father-daughter roles they portrayed in Amour: retired construction magnate Georges Laurent and his daughter Anne, who now runs the company. While George struggles with depression and suggested dementia, Anne battles with her wayward son, Pierre (Franz Rogowoski), who is also battling his own demons. Amidst this drama, Anne’s brother, Thomas (Mathieu Kassovitz), who also lives with them in their huge Calais mansion, takes over the care of his somewhat estranged preteen daughter, Eve (Fantine Harduin).
Eve, we learn in the film’s prologue (covertly filmed with a smart phone camera), has secretly poisoned her mother with sedatives, who is now in a coma. With all the twisted soap opera dramatics, we rarely give thought to the humanitarian crisis going on down the road. However, as the narrative unfolds, Haneke lets the real-world drama slowly seep through the cracks in the Laurent family’s mundane existence – a gradual, damning condemnation of what we as a society often choose to ignore in favour of more trivial endeavours. Stylistically, Happy End is textbook Haneke – the director’s favoured long takes, wide angles and
sudden, violent cuts are all here with his trademark, unwavering camera eye. As always, we invade the day-to-day of family life as a voyeur, observing the drama from doorways, around corners and from the opposite ends of hallways. Here, however, Haneke also chooses to frame his narrative with an abundance of technological devices – CCTV footage, smartphone cameras and computer screens. Consequently, any possibility of intimacy is denied to the viewer; Happy End is perhaps Haneke’s coldest, most detached project yet, even if it offers a whole lot more humour and a great deal less violence (don’t worry, there’s a bit of that
here too). The cast of Haneke stalwarts and newcomers pull plenty of humanity and depth into the family’s shallow existence – Huppert and Trintingent are terrific, as usual; newcomer Fantine Harduin shines as a young, burgeoning sociopath. Expertly crafted, brilliantly acted, disturbing, cynical, hilarious and often shocking, Happy End stops just short of being another masterpiece for Haneke. Those familiar with the director’s work will often feel like they’re retreading familiar territory – still, when the journey’s as visually pleasing and brutally gratifying as this, who cares? Verdict: 9/10
Game for a good movie
A REAL-life sports feud carries a serious message behind its breezy facade, with The Battle of the Sexes (Cert 12A, 121 mins) serving up an entertaining but also thoughtful film. Emma Stone and Steve Carell are great as tennis champs Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, whose 1973 grudge match put gender equality in the centre court, as each took their best shots at defending their differences.
SUBURBICON
Nasty neighbours galore THE FILM poster has lots of multi-star praise – but many film critics have slated this misfiring dud from director George Clooney. Suburbicon (Cert 15A, 104 mins) takes a look at the darkness behind idyllic suburbia in late 1950s America, but the lurking violence and latent racism the film portrays aren’t exactly shocking, with the current climate in America hurting the film’s narratives.
14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 29
GAZETTE
TRAVEL
Take the stress out of the January sales Heritage in Killenard SYLVIA POWNALL Travel Editor
SOME of us haven’t even started our Christmas shopping but the more organised spenders out there might already be looking ahead to the January sales. It can be tough trekking around boutiques all day long laden down with bargains – but a retail-themed hotel stay can take the stress out of the most manic retail hunt. The Heritage in Killenard is offering a special shopping package with a day out at Kildare Village followed by a spa experience at the fivestar facility. You can enjoy a onenight break with a 10% discount card and €30 gif t card for K ildare Village, courtesy of the hotel. Located in the charming countryside of Co Laois, The Heritage is known for its exceptional facilities, impeccable service and world-class dining. Rates for the Luxury Shopping Package start from €109.50 per person sharing and includes
overnight deluxe accommodation with breakfast and access to The Heritage Spa Experience and a €30 voucher for Kildare Village (www. theheritage.com). Alternatively why not shop your way into the New Year at Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Dublin? Hit the sales with a chic and stylish break, enjoy a cocktail on arrival (choose from the signature apple strudel or snowflake), dine on seasonal menus and recharge the batteries. Take a break between December 27 and 29 with one night including Super Breakfast and dinner in V’nV Restaurant from €150 per person based on two people sharing (w w w.radissonblu.com/royalhoteldublin). If you fancy getting out of town how about a five-star fashion fix at The Savoy in Limerick? In the heart of vibrant downtown Limerick and only a short stroll from the city’s retail quarter, The Savoy is perfectly placed for guests to shop until they drop. Brown Thomas is only
Enjoy a cocktail at Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin
The Savoy in Limerick is perfectly placed for guests to shop until they drop
a short walk away and you can avail of a €30 gift card for the luxury lifestyle store courtesy of the hotel. You can take a break from browsing with afternoon tea with Prosecco ser ved in the plush library, or a dip in
the pool and a spot of relaxation in the thermal suite. The boutique break is priced from €145 per person sharing and includes an overnight stay in an Executive Guest Room, a €30 Brown Thomas voucher,
Prosecco afternoon tea for two people in The Library, a late breakfast the following morning (served until 12 noon) and a late checkout (2pm) plus complimentary valet parking. Visit www.savoylimerick.com for details.
Spoil yourself with a spa experience at the five-star Heritage in Killenard
30 DUBLIN GAZETTE NORTH 14 December 2017
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SOCCER P35
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
Leinster are looking to make it four wins from four in the European Champions Cup next Saturday. Picture: Martin Doherty
RUGBY: LEINSTER ON THE BRINK OF QUARTER-FINAL QUALIFICATION
Cullen ready to chop and change for the hectic Christmas battles JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com
LEO Cullen’s Leinster can push to the brink of qualification for the European Champions Cup quarter-finals if they can back up their hugely impressive victory over the Exeter Chiefs last Sunday. An 18-8 victory at Sandy Park cemented the province’s status as one of the favourites for the competition and a repeat victory in front of a large home crowd will further augment that reputation. “The Aviva games are huge for the club,” Cullen told the Dublin Gazette ahead of Saturday’s tie. “47,000 people coming out shows the strength of Leinster rugby, it’s a real point of difference
for Leinster. They’re showcases, special events that allow us to compete with teams around Europe, against the TV money that’s on offer in England and France. We’re competing against that all the time. “Exeter won the English league ahead of the champions of Europe in Saracens and ahead of Wasps. They’re a strong club that has built slowly, in the right way, and they’re really difficult to play.” It continues a hectic month for Leinster in a season which has already presented new challenges. The double-header trip to South Africa in the Pro-14 in September is recalled as being “logistically difficult” with Leinster playing “guinea pigs”.
But the Christmas season holds its own challenges with the Exeter contest followed by games with Munster, Connacht and Ulster in quick succession. “It’s very attritional but we have a really strong squad, which is becoming more important. We’re trying to make sure things like the South Africa trip don’t have any long term effect. “When you play those away games, we’d normally fly home the night of the game but obviously that can’t happen in South Africa. We flew home and couldn’t train until Wednesday for a game on Friday. “It’s not ideal but it’s the reality of how you play now. It’s very squad focused, and it’s probably
one of the things that attracts players to Irish clubs over others. “We do care for our players and we think a lot about the best man in. We’ll be chopping and changing throughout Christmas, as that’s the nature of it.” The recent confirmation of Jordi Murphy’s departure for Ulster, after coming through the Leinster youth system, is a case in point. “We have to deal with these things on a case by case basis,” Cullen explained. “It’s a highly competitive environment to be in. Obviously Jordi’s weighed up his options and decided his future lies elsewhere. We’re really sad to see him go, he was a great contributor.”
ASDFSDAF P27 GAA P36-37
GAZETTE
BASKETBALL P34
GAZETTE
34 DUBLIN GAZETTE NORTH 14 December 2017
SPORT
METRORugby
Malahide hold on for win in pulsating Bective tie MALAHIDE rugby club’s second team moved up to third place in the Metro League Division 4 as they ran up a lively 36-29 win over Bective in Donnybrook last Friday evening. In cold conditions, the game kicked off at a fast pace on the open all weather pitch. Both defences struggled early on with Malahide going over for a try in the first few minutes scored by Shane O’Brien which he also converted. Almost immediately, Bective stormed over from 40 yards out to level up the game. A penalty straight after gave the hosts a 10-7 lead. Malahide settled into the game and after a period of sustained pressure, Dan Hayes crossed for the Estuary Road club’s second try and, before half-time, they scored twice again through David Feenan and Dan Hayes grabbing an excellent second try. Both were converted by Shane O’Brien, making it 26-10 with a bonus point already wrapped up. Bective, however, hung on in there and scored late in the first half to make it 26-17 at half-time with the tie very much alive. The second half was much like the first, played at a fast pace. After excellent defence by the Malahide pack, an O’Brien penalty kept the scoreboard ticking for Malahide but, again, Bective came back into it and crossed the line making it 29-22 after a missed conversion. Both sides battled for the next period until Sean Power broke clear from a line-out and could not be caught from 45 metres out; the conversion was added to make it 36-22. Bective again rallied and put Malahide under pressure, forcing two yellow cards in the last 15 minutes to Colin Corkery and O’Brien. Down to 13 men at a point, Malahide conceded another try. However, Malahide was not going to be denied the win and a brilliant show of defence and try saving tackle by Eric Ryan, in the end, won them the day and a well earned Christmas break after a pulsating game.
BASKETBALL: CASTLEKNOCK CLUB ENJOY NAISMITH CLASSIC
The Tridents Under-13 basketball team on their recent tour to Belfast
Tridents’ northern tour sport@dublingazette.com
TRIDENTS Ladies basketball club’s Under-13 girls enjoyed a super tour to Belfast as they took in the Naismith Memorial Belfast Hall of Fame Classic. Indeed, it was part of a mass-migration from Dublin up the M1 for the eye-catching event. Driving to the tournament, the players also encountered some rival teams from Dublin at a rest stop including the Ongar Chasers also based in Dublin 15, and the Dublin Lions from Clondalkin.
This was a four-team tournament played between US College teams Manhattan College, La Salle College, Ho l y C r o s s C o l l e g e and Towson University. The tournament was very exciting with both the third place and the championship matches being won in the last minute of play. In the championship game, Towson State University from Maryland defeated Manhattan College by a score of 56-55. Following an overnight stay in Carrickfergus, the Tridents team got up early to play two
NORTHERN EXPOSURE Bane inspires Fingal side to beat frost and Bray DUBLIN NORTH advanced to the second
round of the Irish Hockey Trophy thanks to a narrow 4-2 win over Bray last weekend. Former international David Bane was joined on the score sheet by younger brother Eamonn as well as Ryan West and Paddy Gahan - pictured - in the result at Templecarrig. It was the one game to get the go-ahead in the competition with the majority being frozen out last Saturday. Picture: Sinead Hingston
matches against leading Belfast teams. They lost the first game against Andersonstown Tigers by a score of 30-38. However, once they got rolling, they beat Belfast Star 40-22. Closer to home, the Castleknock club’s Tridents’ Senior 3 team won their first game of the season when they travelled to Firhouse and beat them by a score of 54-46. Tr i d e n t s b a l a n c e d attack was led by R ioghan Ni Lorcain scoring 12 points while Yvonne Corsacan added 11 points and Niamh
Kelly and player/coach Anne Antoniotti chipping in with 7 points each. In underage action, following a Christmas visit to the Blanchardstown Ice Rink on Friday night, Tridents Under-17s played Kubs on Saturday morning in Kilbarrack and ran out convincing winners by a score of 41-17. Ciara McDermott and Sarah Bateman showed fine shooting form while Hafsa Al Ghazi, Alannah Maxwell and Sophie Browne worked tirelessly on defence, turning over ball after ball and con-
verting to scores on the fast break. The team is now in first place in the Dublin Ladies Board Under-17 league. Tr i d e n t s Un d e r-15 team also defeated Meteors. The game, which took place at Rosemount School, saw Tridents come through in overtime. Mya Golden hit a three-point field goal to take the game into overtime. From there, Tridents displayed tenacious defence to come through with a twopoint, hard earned victory.
14 December 2017 NORTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 35
GAZETTE
SOCCER: SWORDS GO THE DISTANCE FOR LEAGUE WIN
LSLSoccer
Swords Cetlic celebrating their NDSL Under-14 Premier league glory.
Celtic’s relentless run to NDSL victory
NDSL U-14 PREMIER
JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com
S WOR D S C E LT IC ’s Under-14 side have had a fantastic season, winning their NDSL Premier division as well as going deep into a prestigious tournament in Britain. For team manager Joe Gannon, he puts progress down to the twin contributions of UEFA A licensed coach Daire Doyle – who also coaches at Longford Town – and an innovative fitness regime. The side won their league after a playoff with Corduff, with both sides having only lost to each other over the course of the league. The two sides had records of played 18, won 17 lost one. In the playoff, the pair drew 2-2 over 70 minutes but Celtic eventually prevailed emphatic 5-2 winners after 20 minutes of extra time. “You could really see the difference in the fitness of the lads based on their training this year,” Gannon told the Dublin Gazette. “The opposition started bouncing off them.
In that extra time, it made all the difference; it’s great to see.” The side also impressed in the prestigious ESF Festival of Football in England. Winning their regional qualifier by defeating Wallsend Boys – former team of Alan Shearer, Steve Bruce and Michael Carrick – 1-0 in the final, they progressed to play at St George’s, home of the English FA. In a tournament that had over a thousand initial entrants, Swords Celtic won two group games out of three in the last eight stage before being pipped 2-1 by Rushden and Diamonds. Striker Adam Naughton (who top scored for the team) midfielder Matthew O’Brien and goalkeeper Ben Smith are amongst the team’s key players. On the fitness front, Charlotte Roughan delivers sessions called Relentless 24 Fitness with the team. They have been at the heart of much of Celtic’s good work with their weekly 24-minute sessions – likely to be extended to twice weekly – at the heart of the side’s regime. Roughan’s new business
is based out of Airside, Swords, and came about after she was injured at work, and required to have her L5 vertebrae - the largest - removed. After an 11-week personal fitness period, Roughan started up her business with the aim of helping with strength, form and flexibility, as well as to fulfill her own vital post-injury workout needs in between shifts at Aer Lingus. “They had shocking form when they started!” Roughan recalls of the under-14 side. “We use five kg weights, and do 6-minute sessions each aimed at the upper body, lower
body, core and cardio fitness. “I did some work with them back in the summer and found that after half an hour, I was losing them, they were losing form,” Roughan tells us. “The difference is unbelievable and it’s great to get them started at this age.” Roughan trains people of all levels and abilities and you can find her business by searching her name on Facebook. Swords Celtic, meanwhile, are through to the last 32 of the national cup, and will face Waterford’s Villa FC in late January when they will be at Under-15 level.
Mochta’s Rush to important win over seasiders in Porterstown Park tussle RUSH Athletic’s grip at the top of the LSL Major 1B suffered another blow last weekend after they fell to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of St Mochta’s at Porterstown Road. Declan Whyte’s side could only come away with a 0-0 draw with St James Gate the previous week, meaning they have taken just two points from their last three league games – having also played out a draw with title rivals CIE Ranch FC in November. Mochta’s started the game well and soon took the lead when Aaron O’Brien latched onto an excellent through ball from Mark Sheridan to beat the offside trap, round the keeper, and finish into an empty net. Before Rush knew what hit them, they found themselves two goals behind when Dylan Sweeney finished powerfully. Rush tried to respond and forced Adam Kmet into a fine save with just 14 minutes gone. The Saints were well on top, however, and could have had the game dead and buried midway through the half when O’Brien had two chances to add to his tally. As it was, Rush would have the last say in the first half when Jonathan ‘Bam Bam’ Hanratty scored on 35 minutes to give his side hope going into the break. Mochta’s had the first chance of the second half five minutes after the restart but O’Brien once again failed to find the target. Rush almost equalised on the hour mark but Kmet, often a hero for the Saints, pulled off a great save at his near post. Another chance to level came Rush’s way shortly afterwards, but this time Brian Kelly was on hand to deny them with a fine last ditch tackle. The visitors were now looking dangerous, but just when it seemed an equaliser was most likely, Mochta’s bagged their third after 62 minutes Dylan Sweeney the scorer. Sheridan then had an opportunity to add a goal to his assist earlier in the game but his penalty, awarded for a foul on O’Brien, was brilliantly saved. Rush continued to fight right until the final whistle but, in the end, it wasn’t enough.
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GAZETTE
36 DUBLIN GAZETTE NORTH 14 December 2017
SPORT
FOOTBALL: GLASNEVIN CLUB MAKE IT DOUBLE DELIGHT IN BOTH THE MINOR
FASTGAA
Na Fianna complete UNDER-21 AFC FINAL Na Fianna 2-11 Ballyboden St Enda’s 0-9 JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com
EGB’s jackpot winner MAGGIE Moloney got an early Cristmas present as she was presented with a cheque for €10,000 as the winner of the club’s lotto jackpot. She is pictured with club chairman John Kinsella, Martin Carroll and Anthony Doyle.
The Choice is the book of the year PHILLY McMahon’s heartfelt account of his life on and off the pitch, The Choice written with Niall Kelly, has been named the winner of the eir sport Sports Book of the Year 2017. The Ballymun
Kickhams man picked up his prize at an awards ceremony held in Smock Alley Theatre in Dublin this afternoon. The Choice traces Philly and his brother John’s paths, from his earliest recollections of their childhood through the maelstrom of Ballymun’s heroin epidemic.
NA FIANNA comfortably saw off Ballyboden St Enda’s in the Under21 A football championship final at O’Toole Park on Saturday afternoon. The composure and methodical fluidity of the northsiders proving too much for their more frantic opponents as they completed a famous quadruple across the Under-21 and minor grades in both football and hurling. T h e g a m e l o o ke d evenly matched early on, but was perhaps symptomatic of what was to come later. Na Fianna burst into a 0-3 to 0-0 lead with two points from Sean Caffrey and another from James Doran com-
ing despite an evenlymatched opening. Boden has plenty of the ball, but tended to misdirect it when moving at pace. At the other end, Na Fianna built slowly and carefully, creating space, and only two desperate Ballyboden blocks prevented a bigger lead. St Enda’s were to hit back through a series of frees from their most effective player, the reliably accurate star man Colm Basquel, but a pattern was set for the contest. W here Ballyboden could match Na Fianna, they were burning twice the energy to do so, and tending to give away possession in the midst of their rapid attacking flurries. The composure eventually told in Na Fianna’s confidence in front of the posts and their next three scores were
the best of the game. First, Glenn O’Reilly found space out on the right to fire over a beautiful tightly-angled point. Then Aaron
By r n e c a l m l y s i d e stepped a defender to chip over. Finally, Alex Fitzgerald was found on the end of a beautiful flowing move through
several hands to pummel into the net, and Na Fianna had control at 1-5 to 0-3. T he side in yellow were also to slam the
Na Fianna celebrate their Under-21A football title, adding to an incredible series of wins
CLUB NOTICEBOARD CASTLEKNOCK
BIG thanks to everyone who supported our annual wine fair in the Carpenter. Big attendance and a great night had by all. Proceeds will go to the Dublin 15 Hospice and CHFC. Well done to all the organisers of the annual nursery Christmas party; hope everyone had a great day and looking forward to see everyone back at the nursery on January 20. The Castleknock GAA Story – a book marking the first 20 years of the club is coming soon, look out for the open night in January 2018, a chance to share your story and memorabilia. No winner of our lotto jackpot with thanks to Rialto Ford. Numbers were 8,11,12 and 25. Twelve match 3 winners, winning €25 each. Lucky dip winner was Sinead Byrne who takes home €30. Our new jackpot is €4,000 with the next draw in Kavanagh’s on December 14.
ERIN GO BRAGH
NO WINNER of our lotto jackpot which is €4,800. Numbers drawn were 2, 18, 12 and 25. Congratulations to Jim Judge and Amy Carroll who were our €50 winners. Our only match this weekend was our U-12 boys who took part in a blitz in Peregrine’s on Saturday morning. Congratulations to both Adam Dalton and Brian O’Sullivan who qualified in level two referee course which was kindly hosted by Naomh Peregrine. Plenty of end of season parties last weekend. Our U-8 boys went to Croke Park; our U-9 to U-11 girls went to the National Arena and aqua zone and our U-12 boys went to Skill Zone. Thanks to all their mentors and chaperones for organising these trips; the children had a ball. Thanks to all who helped out and to everybody who supported us in our annual bag packing fund raiser
in Dunnes Stores at the weekend. Please note, all tickets for the national club draw have to be returned to mentors asap. Congratulations to all our teams this year, you all put in amazing performances and have done the club so proud. Well done to all who received both team and individual awards. For anyone wishing to order personalised helmets, please contact Finbarr Barrett on 086 383 7411. The good work continues at juvenile level with all our teams continuing to thrive. New members are always welcome to any of our teams, no experience necessary. Our adult football team and 2017 championship semi-finalists are now looking for new players for the 2018 season. All newcomers welcome. Contact George Burke at 087 9709795 or email georgejburke@eircom.net.
FINGALLIANS
MEMBERSHIP: Forms for 2018 are now available at the club bar or to download on the club website - www. fingallians.com. Awards Night date: Many of our adult teams had an outstanding 2017.Winning medals and player of the year presentations will take place on Saturday, January 20, 2018, in the club hall (further details to follow). Dáta don Oíche Gradam: Bhí bliain rathúil ag cuid dár bhfoirne fásta. Bronnfar ‘imreoirí na bliana’ agus boinn ar an Sathairn, 20ú Mí Éanair 2018 sa halla mór. (Tuilleadh eolas le teacht). Mentor Nite – Xmas Party: Saturday, December 23 from 8pm in the club bar. Thank You to our Sponsors in 2017: As the busiest time of year approaches for local retailers, the club asks that you remember to support the companies who support us be it sponsoring team jerseys, Race Day in Bellewstown or at other
events throughout the year. Their backing is gratefully acknowledged and we look forward to continue working with them in the new year. Ladies Dub Stars: Congratulations to our representatives Niamh Rickard (Senior) and Aleisha Duffy (Junior). The Dubs will play the All-Ireland champions on January 14 in St Claire’s, DCU. Diary Date: Race Day 2018 will take place on Saturday, July 7. Nursery Holidays: We are now finished for 2017 and will resume at 10am on Saturday, January 13. Hurling Puck Around: Every Friday (and this will continue up to Christmas) on our all-weather pitch from 6-7pm. For further detail, please contact klawton1@hotmail.com. Sports Prediction Quiz - winners 2017: first place €500 - Sean O Cathain, second place €100 – Cormac O Braonain and third place €100 – Hannah Markey. Bloodbank - Diary Date:
The Irish Blood Transfusion Service Board’s mobile unit team will be at the club on Saturday, December 23 from 11am to 2.30pm. Some 3,000 units (pints) of blood are needed overall each week to cater for emergency and routine cases requiring transfusions of blood and blood products in hospitals all over the country. Blood donors are especially needed at this time (new and existing). Bingo: We are constantly looking for volunteers to help with the running of our Tuesday night bingo. If interested in helping, please make contact. Lotto: Numbers – 11, 16, 23, 24 and 30. We had two winners Anne McNally and D.Teaffe. Jackpot on Tuesday evening will be €2,300.
SKERRIES HARPS MANY thanks to all those who attended our 2017 AGM last Thursday, December 7,
and the very best of luck to the incoming club officers and executive committee for 2018. Congratulations to Katie Norgrove on being named on the Dublin LGFA New Ireland Assurance Senior Dublin Stars 2017 panel. Congratulations to Alix Buckley and Megan Carroll who were named on the Dublin minor camogie panel for 2018. This week’s Zingo result: 4-1-2-5-3-7-6. We had no jackpot winner so the jackpot is now a fantastic €7,200. Dividend €600. Draw next Sunday, December 17 at 7pm in the clubhouse. This is your last chance to enter and win before Christmas. You can play online at www. skerriesharps.ie and follow the links. Academy will recommence in January 2018 – keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for details. Gormanston indoor hurling will also start on January 18 - watch this space for details.
14 December 2017 NORTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 37
GAZETTE
AND UNDER-21 FOOTBALL AND HURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS
unique quartet post before half time at the end of another smooth attacking move, and while Basquel was ke e p i n g B a l l y b o d e n in with a shout, it took
until first half injury time for Warren Egan to score their first point from play. Na Fianna went in with a 1-6 to 0-5 lead.
Ballyboden did close that gap back to a goal with a strong start to the second half, and had a moment when they chipped a point attempt
across both codes
Always a great fun event for our players from academy up to U-12. Upcoming diary dates: Saturday, December 16 - Christmas draw and music night - all members welcome to attend! Retro Raffle will take place with house raffle for those who attend so a night not to be missed; Christmas Day - annual Christmas Day Swim in aid of the Feile Fundraising for 2018; St Stephens Day - annual charity matches will take place - see website and Facebook for further details; NYE 2017 - Skerries Harps presents Bob McQuaid (Swing/Jazz) plus food - tickets €15. A night not to be missed; contact Joanne/Fergal to book your spot - limited to 80. Tickets for the club Christmas draw taking place on December 16 are now available from the clubhouse bar, Joanne Kenny, Fergal Lynch and all fundraising committee members.
high on the post, but weren’t quick enough to react and saw Na Fianna clear. From then on, the game looked a foregone c o n cl u s i o n w i t h N a Fianna controlling the contest both with and without the ball. They pulled slowly further clear, with a second goal scrambled in with the run of play to put the contest to bed ten minutes from time. Ballyboden has much of the ball in the closing stage, but struggled to produce much with it, with Na Fianna ultimately running out 2-11 to 0-9, having also rattled the woodwork at goal-scoring height no less than three times over 60 minutes. With the Under-21 win coming on top of their minor title earlier this year, Na Fianna look a serious long-term footballing prospect.
UNDER-21 C HURLING FINAL
Syl’s stunning comeback ST SYLVESTER’S won an emotionally charged Dublin Under-21 C hurling championship title when they produced a big comeback to beat Naomh Barrog 1-14 to 1-3 in Broomfield with Dan Murphy providing a masterclass. They came back from being half a dozen points behind in the last quarter of the game but summoned a cracking late run of scores for a championship win that the Malahide club dedicated to club hurling stalwarts Declan Morris and Mel McIntyre who passed away in 2017. For Barrog, Nathan Kidd fired a goal to add to scores from Cillian Costello and Brian Dennis as the Kilbarrack club moved into a strong position in the refixed tie having originally fallen foul of the weather. Murphy, though, was tacking on points at regular intervals and his accuracy from frees was a vital factor. He would eventually end with 12 points while Colm Boran’s goal kick-started their fightback in earnest as they eventually overhauled their north Dublin rivals Picture: Peter Hickey?GAAPics.com
CLUB NOTICEBOARD Tickets only €5 or six for €25. Cash prizes, hampers, vouchers and much more. Skerries Harps annual Christmas tree collection: Tags are now on sale for €5 - when you buy your Christmas tree, look out for our team of Feile fundraisers. You can also pick up your tag at the following locations: Skerries Christmas Trees (opposite Gerry’s)/Michael Connolly Trees (Bus Bar/Monument Corner)/Skerries Hardware/Greg Reddins/ Philanns /Stacks Pharmacy Holmpatrick/TMG Cycles Skerries Point/Shankeys Menswear. Club shop opening hours: Saturday, December 16 – 10.30-11.30am; Saturday, December 23 – 10.3011.30am. Customers waiting for pre-ordered goods will receive notification of their collection date by text message. Please support our club member and player Iain Furlong as he takes part in
the Gaelic Voices for change solidarity sleep out on December 16. Any donation very much appreciated and all funds raised go to homeless charities at this important time of year! For more details see: https:// gaelicvoicesforchange. everydayhero.com/ie/iainfurlong-1 Dublin Ladies 2018 calendars now available, signed by Lyndsey Davey, for only €10 – a great stocking filler. Contact the club Facebook page for details of how to pick up a copy.
ST BRIGID’S
A BIG thank you to all who helped with the St Brigid’s Children’s Christmas Party on Sunday last. Our club nursery has finished for this year and will resume on January 13 from 9.30 to 11am for all four to seven-year-olds. Club training has also finished for the Christmas period
and is due to resume from January 8. Wishing all the best to our players due to take part in the Dubstars and Bluestars over the Christmas period. St Brigid’s and Dublin player Noelle Healy has been nominated for the RTE Sportsperson of the Year award. To support Noelle, go to RTE.ie/Sport and click on Noelle’s picture in the panel at the bottom of the page, Noelle is the only Dublin footballer nominated this year. There was no lotto jackpot winner last week and the lotto draw this week will be on Thursday, December 14 in The Greyhound. The jackpot will be €7,400. Thank you to everyone who supports St Brigid’s lotto and to our great lotto committee. Make sure to keep up with all our news on our club app, Facebook and Twitter pages or via the website www.stbrigidsgaa.com. Our club race night takes place in Russell Park on
February 23, 2018. GAA National Draw tickets for a new Renault Clio are now on sale from players, mentors and from behind the club bar priced at €10 each.
ST FINIAN’S
PLEASE note that River Valley and Ridgewood pitches will be closed from Saturday, December 16 until Sunday, January 15 inclusive. The first match of 2018 will be played on Saturday, January 20. The U-13 soon to be U-14 LGFA/camogie are offering a Christmas tree collection service in conjunction with Greig Donnelly’s Swords Christmas trees which can be bought from club car park. It’s €5 a tree for collection on January 7 and all proceeds will go to new training gear for Feile 2018. Please support the national club draw, €10 per ticket. Tickets are available
in the club office or any member of the executive committee and all funds raised will be retained by the club. Tickets will be issued to team mentors over the coming days. Eoin O’Connor Jnr will be taking part in the Gaelic Voices for Change who are organising a massive sleepout in Dublin and around the country on the night of December 16 to help raise money and awareness for the homeless problem in Ireland. The link and details of how to make a donation is available on the club Facebook page. The nursery and academy, sponsored by Sky Handling Partner, will resume on Saturday, January 13, 2018 after the Christmas break and the coffee shop will also reopen on that day. The club appreciation night took place on Saturday in Peacocks. The following won player of the year in their respective categories:
AFL4 - David Butler, AFL8 James Devlin, AHL4 - Kevin Hammond, AHL9 - Paul Burke, Adult LGFA - Laurie Baxter, Adult Camogie - Hanna Dunne, Gaelic for Mothers and Others Ingrid Hanley. Check out the club Facebook page for some photos of the evening. There are Boxercise classes taking place in the clubhouse activity room every Monday evening. For further details, please contact Karen at 087 776 5165. The club lotto jackpot on December 8 was €4,100 and the numbers drawn were 6, 13, 17 and 25. There was no winner. Lucky dip winners of €40 were Joanne McL c/o Caroline, Jacqui & Denis O’Keeffe, Maura Hughes, Agnes Martin. Next week’s jackpot is €4,200. The club bingo takes place this and every Friday upstairs in Peacocks at 8.30pm. The jackpot is €600.
38 DUBLIN GAZETTE NORTH 14 December 2017