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WHEREVER YOU ARE IN THE FINGAL AREA, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED 

MAKE-A-WISH IRELAND NEEDS

LEARNINGCURVE OUR GREAT GUIDE TO FURTHER LEARNING OPTIONS

YOU!

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PUZZLINGTIMES OUR GREAT PUZZLES ADD UP TO SOME FUN TEASERS

Making dreams come true for seriously ill children – like an out-of-this-world trip to an American space centre for this Dublin lad and his family – is all in a day’s work for Make-A-Wish Ireland. Now, the charity is calling for hundreds of volunteer Dubs to give a few hours for its upcoming Wish Day, and help make dreams come true for some of the sickest children in the country ...

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JANUARY 18-24, 2018

D15 TENSIONS ESCALATING AS VIGILANTES TARGET YOUTHS

Mob rule fears as teen gang targeted  SYLVIA POWNALL FEARS of mob rule are growing after vigilantes targeted a teen gang in Dublin 15 – days after more than 100 youths terrorised residents in the village of Lusk.

The ringleaders of the mob, who are believed to be behind a string of vicious assaults and robberies, were attacked in a bid to end their reign of terror. The gang, reportedly calling itself ‘the K45 Crew’, moves

between Blanchardstown and north county Dublin and is responsible for a series of unprovoked assaults. On Saturday, residents in Lusk were forced into lockdown after around 100 teenag-

ers invaded the village, throwing stones at buses and smashing up property. Gardai were alerted shortly after they got off the train in nearby Rush. They rounded up the gang members and escorted

them back to the station. One eyewitness said: “About 15 of them ran down my road. Riot gardai got them. They were out for trouble, hitting the gardai and hiding behind bins. Continued on Page 8

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AGRICULTURE | STARK WARNING AS KEY CONTRACTS LOST

Brexit already biting for Fingal’s farmers  SYLVIA POWNALL

FINGAL farmer Matt Foley has warned that farmers face their most difficult year in 2018 as the consequences of Brexit begin to bite. T he tomato farmer from Rush said he was hit with the fallout of Britain’s EU departure just last month when a large supermarket chain cancelled its contract. Matt, who operates Kilbush Nurseries, produces 25 million tomatoes a season but a key customer he’s dealt with for more than 20 years abruptly axed its order with a one-line email. T he supermarket chain with outlets north and south of the border merely stated: “We

Already feeling Brexit’s pinch: Fingal farmer and tomato exporter Matt Foley. Picture: RTE

are not in a position to commit to a 2018 programme.”

Sterling decline Matt, who operates one of the oldest tomato growing businesses in the country, set on seven acres, said: “Effectively,

Sterling has declined, so our tomatoes are costing them 20% more in Nor thern Ireland because they are paying us in Euro. “That is 12% of our sales. We feel very disappointed, as we gave quite a bit to that company

over the years. “We never had any issues on delivery dates or time or quality, and we took a certain amount of pride in doing a very good job for them. “When you were useful you were used, and now you are not wanted.” O n Tu e s d ay, I r i s h Farmers’ Association president Joe Healy told its AGM that farmers are facing their toughest test. He said: “The figures don’t lie: the retailer takes 51% of the final price, the processor gets 28%, but the farmer only gets 21%. “It’s all about accumulating profits at the expense of farmers and primary producers, and

ultimately consumers.” Farming is a key sector in Fingal and the challenges of Brexit, coupled with the devaluation of Sterling, puts our biggest export market – worth billions of euro – in doubt. Matt contributed to an RTE documentary on the subject earlier this week where Mr Healy warned that thousands of livelihoods could be wiped out. The IFA chief said: “Let’s be very clear – if there’s a bad Brexit, it will change significantly not just Irish farming, but the whole of rural Ireland. “It’s down to the politicians to get it right. We can’t afford to drop our guard.”

TOURISM | AUTHORITY IDENTIFIES GAP IN OFFERINGS

FASTNews

Have your say on policing communities in Ireland

A PUBLIC policing meeting will be held next Wednesday, January 24 in the Crowne Plaza in Blanchardstown. Running from 6-8pm, the Commission on the Future of Policing is an opportunity for locals to meet with Commission members in an informal setting to discuss their priorities for the future of policing in Ireland, and to ask questions and get information on the Commission’s important work. Commission chairperson Kathleen O’Toole said: “Dublin 15 is one of Ireland’s fastest-growing and most diverse communities, and I’m delighted that the Commission will be in Blanchardstown as part of our nationwide meet and greet programme on our important work. All are invited to come and meet with us. “As we work towards a blueprint for policing in Ireland, it is essential that we hear directly from the communities that a police service seeks to serve and protect.”

Concern at council’s low rate of property checks THERE are concerns over the inspection rates of private property rentals in Fingal after it emerged that 63% failed to meet minimum standards. Swords area Cllr Paul Mulville (SD) has called for more inspections and asked the council to rigorously enforce its legislative powers. He said: “The figures provided to me by council management show that 206 inspections of private rented properties were carried out in the Balbriggan/ Swords area in 2017, which is 5.15% of rented properties. “Of these, 111 failed to meet minimum rental standards – a massive 63%.” Fingal County Council said it hopes to tackle the issue this year. A dedicated page on www.fingal.ie guides tenants in private rented accommodation regarding their rights.

Airport brews up plans to get new coffee outlet for arrivals Balbriggan gardeners herb  SYLVIA POWNALL

DUBLIN Airport wants what it describes as “high-quality coffee” to replace the Spar outlet located on the mezzanine in Terminal 2. The airport authority has put out a tender seeking to replace the existing Spar convenience store with a 127sq m unit offering a barista service.

Bidders must commit to running the unit for five years (a three-year lease with a two-year extension). It asks that the business – preferably an “internationally recognised” brand – deliver “a high-quality coffee offer to the Terminal 2 arrivals hall that is capable of appealing to an international market”. Describing the T2 arrivals

hall as an international arrivals and departure hub, and “the emotional epicentre” of the terminal, the DAA says the unit is needed to satisfy passenger demand. It says T2 represents “people returning home to Ireland, visitors landing from across the globe and the entry point for the majority of Americans arriving through Dublin Airport”.

The DAA says research and analysis of the current offering has identified a gap “for a highquality coffee offering along with a strong sandwich/wrap/ grab and go offer” to appeal to “the international market”. The change will end Spar’s presence in the airport, with its Terminal 1 unit closing in 2016. Interested parties have until February 12 to apply.

it here first at evening talk BALBRIGGAN and District Horticultural Society is holding a gardening talk entitled ‘Growing and cooking Herbs’ by Denise Dunne from The Herb Garden, Naul. Denise will talk about growing and using more unusual herbs and foraging. The talk will take place on Thursday, January 18 at 8:30pm in the Scouts Den, Market Green, Balbriggan (beside Lidl). Admission is €4; for further information, call 087 752 0506.

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Dance and help brave little Vincent, 7, fight cruel illness  SYLVIA POWNALL SCHOOL pals have rallied behind a seven-year-old boy (right) diagnosed with a rare condition who needs medication costing €440,000 a year to slow its progress. First Class pupil Vincent Lyons has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a rare genetic disorder that causes weakness and loss of muscle mass. The disease, which primarily affects young boys, can impact the ability to walk, breathe and swallow and there is of yet no known cure. The only drug which would help manage symptoms and slow the course of the disease is not on the HSE list – and therefore not available to Vincent.

Now, his school – St Brigid’s NS in Castleknock – is holding a dinner dance on March 3 in the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown to raise funds for him. His parents, Alan and Vivien, describe Vincent (who was named after his grandfather) as a “happy-go-lucky little fella”. “He is the middle child with two sisters. He absolutely loves dinosaurs and his little dog Bella.

Vincent is very funny, intelligent and playful. His dream in life is to become an archaeologist. “Right now, Duchenne Muscular Distrophy has meant that Vincent has slowed down and isn’t able to play with his pals the way he used to. He cannot be as physically active.” They are fighting for him to get treatment as soon as possible and found that a new drug trialled in the US will potentially lessen the severe muscle weakness. But time is of the essence – and it’s vital he receives the drug while he is still walking, to achieve maximum effect. To help support the school’s dinner dance, see https://www. gofundme.com/7j59w-victory4-vincent

Despite his rare condition, Vincent does his best to stay happy-go-lucky

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Out and About

Josh, Katie and Ross Griffith from Finglas. Pictures: Fintan Clarke

Jessica Rotaru with Nicoleta Litoiu from Balbriggan

North Dubs graduate as accounting technicians I

T was a very proud day for some locals as they were conferred as Members of Accounting Technicians Ireland at a ceremony at the Talbot Hotel in Dublin last week. The successful candidates received their Diplomas for Accounting Technicians at the event attended by professionals and family and friends.

Ridhi Jain, from Castleknock, with Dargan FitzGerald, Leigh Walsh from Swords

President of Accounting Technicians Ireland, receiving

Susan Somerfield (Blanchardstown) and Siobhan

her prize for placing first in ATI’s first year exams

Kilroy (Clonee)

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BALBRIGGAN | COUNCIL ENTERS LONG-TERM DEAL WITH O’DWYERS

FASTNews

 SYLVIA POWNALL

Gardai investigate armed raid at Lidl, Balbriggan

Club’s agreed move to Bremore park praised FINGAL County Council (FCC) has welcomed the decision by members of a Balbriggan GAA Club to accept a proposal that will see it move to Bremore Regional Park. Under the agreement, the council will enter into a longterm lease with O’Dwyers GAA Club for a 10-acre site on the northern boundary of the park. The club will develop a new clubhouse, sports pitch, parking and training areas which the council says ties in with its overall vision for the sporting facility. The local authority has also agreed to purchase O’Dwyers’ current facility at Hamlet Lane which will be used for road improvements in the area as well as providing new housing. FCC planning director AnnMarie Farrelly said: “We look forward to signing contracts and proceeding with the project

Under the agreement, O’Dwyers GAA Club has a long-term lease for a 10-acre site on the boundary of Bremore Regional Park

in the coming months. “T his agreement gives O’Dwyer’s the opportunity to develop a state-of-the-art sports facility that will cater for their growing membership.” The 100-acre facility in north

Balbriggan along the R132 will feature a community and tourism hub focused around the restored medieval Bremore Castle, playground and outdoor events area. A range of sporting facili-

ties will be provided including the already completed 3G Allweather sports pitch, as well as at least six more public grass pitches – three for GAA purposes. The council is drafting a master plan for the park which will go through public consultation and planning this year and is expected to be completed by 2021. Fingal Mayor Cllr Mar y McCamley said: “Bremore will provide the people of Balbriggan, which is Ireland’s youngest town, with a dedicated recreation area. “Meanwhile, the redevelopment of Bremore Castle has the potential to create another major tourist attraction for the north county.” When the project was first mooted, FCC said it believed Bremore Castle has the potential to model itself on the Bunratty Castle experience.

ENVIRONMENT | SD CLLR FOCUSES ON ROGERSTOWN AREA

Estuary pollution fears sees call for FCC action THERE have been calls for measures to protect the Rogerstown Estuary as fears of pollution from suspected agricultural sources have escalated. Paul Mulville, Social Democrats councillor for the Swords local electoral area, has highlighted the need for the heritage site to be protected. An EPA repor t on water quality published last August singled out the estuary – a Special Area of Conservation and a Special Protection Area – as being at risk as a result of excessive algae growth. Cllr Mulville said he raised the matter with

Fingal County Council and urged it to fully investigate the source of the pollution. He said he was informed that the cause of the problem at Rogerstown “is most likely as a result of nutrient enrichment from diffuse agricultural pollution sources from the Ballyboughal River, Ballough River and Corduff River catchment”.

‘Enhancements’ The council does not consider the disused Balleally Landfill a risk “due to infrastructural enhancements through specified engineering works that have been

completed in recent years”. The area was monitored ahead of the Rogerstow n Outer Estuary Management Plan, which aims to address flooding, coastal erosion, nature conservation, amenity use and tourism development. Cllr Mulville said: “It is of the utmost importance that the council and all relevant authorities continue to work hard to ensure the protection of Rogerstown Estuary, which is an area of outstanding natural beauty, and which is of international importance in terms of its flora and fauna.”

GARDAI are investigating an armed raid on a Lidl store in Balbriggan at the weekend. Two thugs held up staff with a gun while customers were in the shop at Market Green on Sunday at 6pm. They approached a cashier and demanded money while shocked customers stood in the queue at the tills. The pair fled the scene with more than €2,000 in cash. Staff members caught up in the incident are now reportedly on leave.

U2 drummer in legal row over north Dublin property U2 DRUMMER Larry Mullen has launched legal proceedings against a series of contractors over a proposed refurbishment of a north Dublin property. Papers were lodged by the artist and his partner Ann Acheson in the High Court last week relating to the planned demolition of a number of houses at Claremont Lodge, Howth to construct a family home. Mullen and Acheson had previously lodged separate proceedings against seven defendants regarding the same issue in October 2016. It is understood that the case specifically involves an issue surrounding a boundary wall at the property.

€10.1m Lusk Community College extension praised WORK is under way on the long-awaited €10.1m extension to Lusk Community College, which will increase its capacity from 650 to 1,000 students. Construction on site began on January 3 and news of the development was welcomed by Senator James Reilly (FG), whose GP practice is in the town. He said: “I am delighted for the parents, pupils and teachers in Lusk and surrounding catchment area who will use this excellent school. “New facilities are needed at this school, including a special needs unit, a sports hall with a fitness suite and changing facilities, and a school library, which I understand will all be provided in the new facility.” Lusk has a growing population of 10,000 and frustrated parents last year took to the streets to protest at the delay in providing the school extension. Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

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PEOPLE | WELL-DESERVED PRIZE FOR INSPIRATIONAL WEIGHT WATCHERS LEADER POLICING

Mary’s 3,000 thanks as she scoops weight loss prize – and beats cancer  SYLVIA POWNALL A DU BL I N wo m a n who beat breast cancer is starting the New Year €3,000 richer after being crowned Weight Watchers’ best leader for 2017. Mar y O’Donoghue from Chapelizod, who holds classes in Castleknock and the city centre as well as Maynooth and Leixlip, is now planning a well-deserved holiday. The 53-year-old shed an incredible five stone before she became a Weight Watchers leader 12 years ago. She now spends her time motivating others. Mar y told Dublin Gazette: “I was overweight all of my life – as a child, a teenager, in my twenties. I developed very bad eating habits and spent a lot of time dieting from the age of 16 as a result. “ I j o i n e d We i g h t Watchers back in 1998 when I was in my thirties and something just clicked. I think I was just tired of being overweight. I listened, followed the

Mary’s Weight Watchers Classes Leixlip GAA Club, Tuesdays at 9.30am and 7.30pm Glenroyal Hotel, Maynooth, Wednesdays at 9.45am Carmelite Centre, Aungier St, Dublin 2, Wednesdays at 12.45pm, 5pm and 6pm Castleknock Parish Centre, Thursdays at 7pm Carmelite Centre, Aungier Street, Fridays at 8am and 12.45pm plan, and took my time. “If I hadn’t lost that weight back then, I dread to think where I’d be now. I love my food and I love eating, but now I approach it differently. “Back then I was single and living on my own and I guess I was a bit of a secretive eater; I would reward myself with food. Now that’s all changed.” Mary has a double cause for celebration, having beaten breast cancer just months after being diagnosed. She revealed: “I was so lucky because it was picked up really fast when I went for a routine mammogram. They found a tumour and it was removed straight away. “I had four weeks of radiotherapy and the day

after I got Leader of The Year I went for a check-up and got the all-clear. “It’s a great start to the year, because last year wasn’t the best, so it’s exactly the boost that I needed. “I’m trying to get the word out there about early detection. To be honest, when I got my first appointment I didn’t want to go, but thankfully I did. “If you have an appointment, just go! It’s only half an hour out of your life, but it could save your life.” Mary took part in a national fundraiser last September and wore her wedding dress to her Weight Watchers class, raising €1,700 for the Irish Cancer Society.

Mary O’Donoghue proudly

FG appeal for calm as teen gangs roaming the region Continued from Page 1

“Some of them hid in fields as well. The whole platform was full when they were putting them back on the train.” Protestors took to the streets in Balbriggan in December to demand a more visible garda presence in the town which, they claim, is in the grip of gang rule. O ve r t h e p a s t 18 months, teen gangs have regularly travelled for fights arranged on social media to Donabate, Malahide and Swords. Gardai suspect the gang, which has African origins, is behind a string of attacks and robberies in Ongar, Mulhuddart, Tyrellstown and Clonee.

sports her wedding dress from five years ago, wearing it to help fundraise for the Irish Cancer Society, as well as supporting her Weight Watchers class. Right: How Mary used to look, before taking steps to lose weight.

She admitted: “It really was an amazing feeling to put my wedding dress on five years later – I married in 2012 – and realise it still fits. “It looked a little bit better on the wedding

day, when I was a little bit leaner, but I was thrilled it fit. I wore my wedding shoes as well and they still killed me five years later; my feet were in bits!” Mary is now planning a holiday with her €3k win-

nings. She said: “My husband got a horrible spinal infection last year and pneumonia and spent all summer in hospital. “We’re going to splash out on a nice trip for ourselves.”

€545k boost to help support the county’s small businesses

A TOTAL of 46 small businesses and start-ups in Fingal are to benefit from a €545,328 cash injection. The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) awarded the funding through grant schemes in the last quarter of 2017. It is expected that over the next three years, at least 117 new jobs will be added by the businesses in receipt of funding, 38 of which are to be created immediately. Head of Enterprise Oisin Geoghegan and Mayor Cllr Mary McCamley presented grant approval letters to 30 of the successful businesses at a specially convened awards event in Swords Castle. Picture: SON Photographic

Several arrests There have been several arrests in recent months for assault causing harm, possession of an offensive weapon and violent disorder. Residents in Balbriggan have threatened to take the law into their own hands and in other Fingal towns a cohort of adults are also considering confronting the gangs. But Cllr Tom O’Leary (FG) has appealed for calm. He told Dublin Gazette: “Neighbourhood Watch is the best way to deal with this. “It is a tried and tested method and it works. It is the correct way to approach things and to work in co-operation with gardai.” He added: “The train station is about 20 minutes from Lusk so it’s not very accessible. The fact that they just landed in the middle of the country suggests it was planned.” Saturday’s incident has led to fresh calls for the reopening of Rush Garda Station to be fast-tracked.

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TRANSPORT | COUNCIL STUDY CITES PROJECT’S INITIAL OUTLAY, ‘SIGNIFICANT CAPITAL COST’

€7m cost sees brakes put on return of Howth tram

 SYLVIA POWNALL

FINGAL County Council has – for the time being – ruled out the return of the famous Howth tram because it would cost almost €7 million. The popular tourist trams – which ran from Howth harbour to the summit – were phased out by CIE in the late 1950s and replaced with buses. However, a number of locals support the return of the tramway and their case is supported by growing visitor numbers. They would like to see the tramline up and running again between

Howth DART station and the Summit pub, which serves as a meeting point for cliff walkers. Locals – backed by some councillors – estimate the service would prove a winner with tourists and attract upwards of 60,000 users a year using the original restored trams.

But a study produced by consultants for Fingal County Council estimates it will require an initial outlay of €6.7 million, and may operate at a loss. Jim K ilroy, of the N a t i o n a l Tr a n s p o r t Museum in Howth, is fully behind the project and has spent his life refurbishing

the original vehicles. He anticipates there would be no shortage of volunteers to operate the service. He told The Irish Times: “They need the trams that we have – real, genuine trams. “It would be a dream come true. I travelled on the Hill of Howth tram, I am old enough to remember. I would love to relive that memory.” The local authority says while the proposals are feasible, they are not “currently being considered due to the significant capital cost” and anticipated need to subsidise it.

Educate Together pays tribute to the late Brian Ruane’s tireless work

The late Brian Ruane, who Educate Together saluted for his “incredible work” for Balbriggan ETNS

TRIBUTES have been paid to Brian Ruane, who played a key role in the development of Balbriggan Educate Together NS, following his death. The dad-of-one was on board with the project from day one – progressing from a group supporter to a board member and eventually becoming chairperson of its board of management. In a statement on its website, Educate Together extended its sympathies to his family and friends and saluted him for his “incredible work” for the organisation over the past 12 years. It said: “Brian made valuable contributions in those early years, shaping the school as a warm and

inclusive school for the whole school community. “He oversaw the rapid expansion of the school in its new building and its greater involvement in Educate Together. “His partner has told us that it was one of the happiest days of his life when, following his daughter’s birth in 2014, he completed a preenrolment form for her in a school of his own making.” Brian was also a key player in developing ET’s work in college of education and its ethical education curriculum. ET noted: “His contribution will have a powerful impact on the lives of thousands and young people and will last long into the next century.”

Replete with embedded German subtitles, Once Upon A Tram (1959) gives a fascinating look at bygone Howth, and one of the Howth Tram’s last runs. Screengrabs: YouTube

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Out and About

Kate Headon, Karl Hoffman, Colette O’Beirne and Anthony Ennis. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

James O’Keeffe, Kathryn Gibbons, Helen Cahill and Peter Fitzsimmons

Baldoyle Musical Society serve up a treat for all T

HE Girl Guide Associations, Portmarnock Ladybirds and Brownies (pictured) were delighted to enjoy the fun of the Beauty and the Beast Panto last week put on by the Baldoyle Musical Society at St Mary’s Secondary School. The show was terrific family entertainment with a great selection of song and dance numbers.

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GAZETTE

DUBLINBUSINESS Telecom companies in focus for awards Plenty of food for thought as exports soar to new heights REPORT | DESPITE CHALLENGES, 2017 SAW IRISH FARE HIT €12.6 BILLION

SWITCHER.IE has announced the nominees for this year’s annual Switcher.ie awards. The 22 awards give Irish consumers the chance to have their say on the services being provided by the nation’s telecoms companies. Now in their fifth year, the awards also shine a light on the best broadband and TV providers and products in the Irish market, as well as highlighting the best of the mobile industry too. Virgin Media leads the way in the broadband and TV categories, with 15 nominations, while Vodafone is nominated in all seven mobile categories. As the only customer-voted awards of their kind in the country, the awards serve to highlight what customers think of their provider’s performance across a range of areas such as technical support, customer service and TV content. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in The Marker Hotel on Thursday, February 1. A full list of broadband award categories and nominees is available at https://switcher.ie/broadband/ awards/, while the mobile award categories and nominees are at https://switcher.ie/mobiles/awards/

Design industries preparing for this year’s Showcase A SPOTLIGHT will be shone on the city’s leading design businesses at the upcoming Showcase 2018 – the 42nd annual creative expo that focuses on a diverse range of creative industries. Designers, manufacturers and craftspeople from throughout Dublin city and county will present their latest collections at Showcase at the RDS from Sunday, January 21 through to Wednesday, January 24. The trade-only Showcase expo is an international launch pad for the 450 Irish designers, manufacturers and craftspeople who unveil their new season collections across fashion, jewellery, home and giftware at the annual expo, which also provides a particular emphasis on new products to market, providing retailers with opportunities to discover and stock up on the latest design-led products, many of which are unique to the show. Specialised trade buyers from across the world are drawn to Showcase each year, making the event not only a testament to the unique offering of Ireland’s vibrant design and craft sector, but an invaluable marketing and networking tool for the city, county and country’s creative industries.

IRISH food, drink and horticulture exports increased by 13% in 2017, to reach €12.6 billion for the first time. The figure increases to €13.5 billion when non-edible products, such as forestry, are included. Speaking at the launch of Bord Bia’s Export Performance and Prospects 2017-2018 report, Michael Creed – the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine – said: “Bord Bia’s report provides valuable insights into the sectors and markets behind the very welcome 13% increase in the value of food and drinks exports to €12.6 billion. “Industry, in line with my department’s market prioritisation strategy, is continuing to diversify, with exports to international markets reaching €4 billion for the first time. “Trade with the UK, which remains our most valuable market, has grown in overall terms, despite the difficulty presented by Brexit and a weaker Sterling.” According to the Bord Bia report, last year’s export perfor-

Graphic: Bord Bia

mance was driven by a surge in dairy exports to more than €4 billion (+19%). Sales of Irish beef are up 5%, which represents a fifth of all exports, at almost €2.5 billion. Notable growth was also recorded for prepared foods (+17% to €2.2 billion) and beverages (+8% to €1.5 billion). Bord Bia’s chief executive, Tara McCarthy, said: “In terms of yearly growth rates, the dairy sec-

tor grew by almost 20% to reach €4.02 billion, confirming its position as the number-one exporting sector. “Within the dairy sector, the value of Ireland’s butter exports rose by a remarkable 60% this year alone, to reach €879 million.” On a more cautionary note, McCarthy also highlighted the currency risk that remains for all sectors, especially those such

as horticulture and prepared consumer foods that are hugely dependent on the UK market. She said: “Sterling volatility, combined with slower economic growth, food inflation and lower wage forecasts, will put further pressure on the UK market as an export destination. “These prospects provide an additional incentive for Irish exporters to explore new markets within the EU26 and beyond.”

RESEARCH | INNOVATIVE INTERNATIONAL PROJECT INSTIGATED

UCD announces €4m AI centre collaboration with Samsung

THE Insight Centre for Data Analytics at UCD has announced the launch of a new and collaborative €4 million artificial intelligence research project with Samsung Electronics Co Ltd, the multinational electronics

company headquartered in South Korea. The project is a joint initiative between researchers at UCD, NUI Galway, UCC, DCU, and other partner institutions. T h e € 75 m i l l i o n Research Centre is fund-

ed by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) and a wide range of industry partners. The collaborative AI research project will leverage deep data science and AI expertise at the centre to help enable Samsung to

create ‘smarter’ products and more personalised experiences tailored for its customers and users. A key feature of this collaborative project will be the transfer of research skills between staff at Samsung and UCD.

In addition, there will be career placement opportunities at Samsung’s research facilities in the UK and in South Korea for the pool of computer and data science students from the centre.

DUBLINLIFE

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GAZETTE

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week

APPEAL: DUBS ASKED TO NOMINATE SOMEONE EXTRAORDINARY FOR PEOPLE OF THE YEAR AWARD

Help celebrate unsung heroes  MARK O’BRIEN DO YOU know someone who does extraordinary things that really make a difference to their family, friends, neighbours, work colleagues or local community? This is your chance to have their unsung heroism acknowledged live on TV, thanks to The People of the Year Awards. Held in partnership with Today with Sean O’Rourke on RTE Radio 1, the awards organisers

are looking out for local heroes and ordinary people who do extraordinary things in Dublin. The team behind Sean’s show are calling out to Dubliners to nominate their heroic partners, friends, parents, neighbours and co-workers that deserve some national recognition. The winner will be honoured at the 43rd People of the Year Awards, organised by Rehab Group, which will be held on March 3.

Sean said: “Some of the most extraordinary people I have interviewed over the years are the unsung, everyday heroes. “So, if you know someone you’d like to nominate, please nominate them today.” Ireland’s ‘Ever yday Hero’ can be of any age, from any walk of life and from any part of Ireland but there is just one criterion – they must be really special to be considered. They can be the essence of Dublin’s community

spirit, or they could be the person who puts everyone else before themselves and never asks for thanks. All the nominations will be considered by the adjudication panel and will be announced live on the People of the Year Awards TV programme on RTE One on Saturday, March 3. Mo Flynn, chief executive of Rehab Group, said: “We have vital and important services for people with disabilities around

the country, including Dublin, and we see heroes in communities every day. “Ever ybody knows someone who is always doing something for others. These people often go unrewarded and unrecognised. “This is a chance to say thank-you to them in a unique way, so please nominate your Everyday Hero for a People of the Year Award.” To nominate your everyday hero, log on to peopleoftheyear.com.

Sean O’Rourke gets some enthusiastic help to launch The People of the Year Awards from ‘nurse’ Elianna Martin, ‘garda’ Rian Duane, ‘fireman’ Alex O’Reillyhall, and ‘soldier’ Leah Murray. Picture: Robbie Reynolds

GAZETTE

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DIARY

COMPETITION: USE A SPLIT SECOND (AND JUST A FEW MOMENTS LATER) TO SUBMIT A PRIZEWINNING PIC

Snap to it if you think you’ve got a perfect photo for top contest DUBS who think they have the perfect pic are invited to submit their super snap for a new Instagram competition. Huawei’s now annual The Snapys have been reimagined as Huawei Creatives, with this year’s competition offering the overall winner a chance to attend an exclusive trip to South by Southwest – a world-renowned creative festival – in Austin, America this March. Last year’s Snapys reached more than three million interactions, with this year’s competition adding two new awards: The People’s Choice, and The Judge’s Choice. The initial 20

shortlisted in each of 13 categories will be narrowed down to a category winner who will receive a Huawei Mate 10 Pro phone, while an overall winner will then be chosen by an international judging panel. To enter, all you have to do is upload your image using #huaweicreatives and the relevant category hashtag, with the full listings and fur ther information available at www.huaweicreatives.ie.

ISPCC CHILDLINE SEEKS VOLUNTEERS IRELAND’S only 24-hour listening ser vice for children, ISPCC Childline, is now recr uiting

volunteers in Dublin. An information evening for prospective volunteers will take place at the Dublin offices of the ISPCC (at No 30 Baggot Street Lower), at 6.30pm this evening, Thursday, January 18. Ever y year, more than 400,000 calls are made to Childline’s phoneline, as well as live text and webchat services. Volunteers who help Childline listen to children do not need any prior qualifications. They receive comprehensive, ongoing, training and support before they take their first call and for the duration of their time as a Childline

volunteer. For further information on becoming a Childline volunteer, see ispcc.ie/ volunteer, email Jennifer. Farrelly@ispcc.ie, or call the Dublin office at 01 234 2046.

FREE LECTURES ON MENTAL HEALTH ISUES AWARE, the national organisation providing education and information around depression, bipolar disorder and moodrelated conditions, has announced the next three talks to take place as part of its lecture series. The topics covered will be Medicine and My Mental Health, Understanding and Managing Anxiety,

A shot by previous Huawei Snapys winner, Liz Stowe, who was sent to Shenzhen last January to capture nine images over a week. This year’s Snapys winner could be sent to Austin, while category winners will receive a top of the range phone.

and Gambling Addiction in Ireland: Current Status and Future Directions. The lectures cover mental health-related topics including depression, bipolar disorder, stress and mood disorders. All lectures are open to the public, are free of charge, and can also be watched back at aware.ie. The Aware Lecture Series is held on the second Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm in the lecture theatre, Swift Centre, St Patrick’s Hospital, James’ St, Dublin 8.

PUBLIC TO HAVE SAY IN XPOSE AWARDS

XPOSE has teamed up with Benefit Cosmetics to host the first ever Xpose Benefit Awards, which will honour the best of talent across the entertainment, fashion and beauty industries. The categories include Best Beauty Influencer, Best Session Make-Up Artist, Best Male T V Star, Best Female TV Star, Best Fashion Stylist, Best Wave Maker, Best Irish Designer, Best High Street Range, Best Male Star of the Big Screen, Best Female Star of the Big Screen, and Best Session Hairstylist. Judges include Xpose producer Debbie

O’Donnell; Lou Bennett, head of marketing, Benefit Cosmetics; presenter Darren Kennedy; photographer Barry McCall; presenter Sean Munsanje; former editor in chief of Image Magazine, Melanie Morris, and Irish Independent fashion editor Bairbre Power The nominees include Amanda Byram, Amy Huberman, Graham Norton, Simone Rocha, Paul Costelloe, Pippa O’Connor, Michael Fassbender, Ruth Negga and Saoirse Ronan. The public can vote for their favourite nominee in each category via Xpose. ie. The winners will be announced on February 1.

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PUZZLE PAGE SUDOKU - EAZY

CODEWORDS

SUDOKU RULES

Codewords are like crossword puzzles - but have no clues! Instead, every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number, the same number representing the same letter throughout the puzzle. All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number! To start you off, we reveal the codes for two or three letters. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

SUDOKU - TOUGH

WORD SEARCH Find the following hidden words background blur close up contrast depth exposure film flash focus lens model negative print push processing shoot shutter tint trigger tripod viewfinder zoom

DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T FORGET TO CHECK NEXT WEEK FOR THE SOLUTIONS TO THIS WEEK

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

Out and About

Siobhan Trodd and Orna O’Donoghue

Roisin Flannery

Hannah Hillyer

Laura Woods with Sarah Reynolds. Pictures: Brian McEvoy Photography

An organised book launch L Jana Stevenson

Fiona Bury and Caitriona Fleming

AURA Woods officially launched Ireland’s leading professional Organiser, Sarah Reynolds new book Organised: Simpleways to declutter your house, your schedule and your mind at Hodges Figgis Bookshop on Dublin’s Dawson Street last week. Organised, which is Sarah’s first book, centers around the old adage that life would run more smoothly if your home was organised.

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FEATURE

CHARITY: 500 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO HELP FUNDRAISE FOR A SPECIAL DAY

We wish you’ll help to support sick kids  STAFF REPORTER

MAKE-A-WISH, the international children’s charity founded in the US in 1980, is on the look-out for 500 local volunteers in Dublin to help make its upcoming Wish Day the best one yet. Since arriving in Ireland in 1992, Make-AWish has granted wishes for more than 2,000 brave children, with the granted wishes providing some magic for the child, providing respite from their normal routines of hospitals, doctors and treatment. Now, the charity is looking out for 500 Dublin volunteers to help Wish Day on Friday, March 9, a great success. As Make-A-Wish Ireland’s flagship fundraising day, the day has grown and grown since starting in 2013, thanks to the Make-A-Wish volunteers and the support of the general public. Last year’s event raised more than €120,000 and was vital in enabling the

charity to grant 221 wishes in 2017 – more than in any previous year. Volunteers are asked to give just a few hours of their time to sell wristbands in their local supermarket or shopping centre, helping to raise much-needed funds for the charity. This will enable MakeA-Wish Ireland to fulfil its simple aim – to grant the wishes of children aged between 3-17 who are living with life-threatening medical conditions, and enriching the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Since 1992, Make-AWish Ireland has granted wishes for more than 2,000 brave children across the country, while last year in Dublin alone the charity made wishes come true for 46 children living with illnesses such as cancer, cystic fibrosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. One such Dublin child whose wishes came true include nine-yearold Daniel Barrett from

Walkinstown, who is living with a brain tumour. Make-A-Wish granted Daniel’s wish to visit NASA by organising a truly magical visit for him and his family to the Johnson Space Centre in Texas. Daniel’s life-changing visit included meeting real-life astronauts and even walking on NASA’s replica of the International Space Station. The family had VIP access to the old mission control room, and witnessed astronauts training underwater. D a n i e l ’ s m o t h e r, Orlagh, said that the family will never forget the trip and that “it was a real, once-in-a-lifetime experience!” Making wishes come true can have a hugely positive impact on a child and their families, giving strength, hope and joy. Research shows children who have wishes granted are more likely to build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight a serious illness.

Walkinstown lad Daniel Barrett, who is living with a brain tumour, had his wish come true with a dream trip for him and his family to the Johnson Space Centre in Texas, thanks to Make-A-Wish Ireland

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

‘Research shows children who have wishes granted are more likely to build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight a serious illness’ ---------------------------------------------------------

This improves their quality of life and produces better health outcomes. However, Make-AWish does not receive any government funding and is solely dependent on the generosity of the general public to continue granting wishes to children. According to Make-A-

Wish Ireland, children’s wishes can range from being a princess for the day or meeting their hero, to going on a once-in-alifetime family holiday. Wherever possible, the child’s family is invited to share in the wish experience, creating lasting memories for all the fam-

ily, the wider local community and all of those involved in granting the wish. Calling on Dubs to volunteer for the day, Make-A-Wish Ireland’s chief executive, Susan O’Dwyer, said: “Children with life-threatening illnesses need your help – your precious gift of time this Wish Day will enable us to make wishes come true for seriously ill children when they most need strength, hope and joy. “We have granted almost 2,200 wishes for Irish children, which would not be possible without the support of the

Irish public. “A few hours from the people of Dublin on Friday, March 9 to help raise valuable funds will make wishes come true for more children in your community.” On Wish Day, Friday, March 9, the Make-AWish volunteers will be selling wristbands and transfers, costing €2 each, at locations all across Dublin, with 100% of proceeds going to grant wishes for children living with life-threatening illnesses. To volunteer, see www. m a ke aw i s h . i e / w i s h day, or contact Daragh at 01 205 2011, or email daragh@makeawish.ie.

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STILLORGAN COFE P21

ITB P22

ASDFSDAF P27 ITT P24

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



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DFEI P20

Key CAO dates to note... Fee Dates Early online application (discounted)

€30 January 20, 5:15pm

Normal online application

€45 February 1, 5:15pm

Late online application – restrictions apply

€60 May 1, 5:15pm

Change of Mind – restrictions apply

Nil

Exceptional online late application

€60 July 22, 5:15pm

July 1, 5:15pm

Take the time with your CAO choices – but don’t panic if they don’t work out

NEXT STEPS

We have info on some of the best colleges to help you keep learning SEE INSIDE

WITH time running out for students looking to apply for a college place or university course through the CAO application process, Dublin Gazette’s Education Supplement provides comprehensive information for people looking to enter third level education in 2018. This is one of the most important decisions that you are likely to make in your life, to date, so it is of utmost importance that you are as fully informed before you choose what college and courses you wish to take. There are many pitfalls associated with going to college and we hope to smooth the way for you. You will find information about open days and a wide range of courses available. We also advise and inform students about how to navigate the choppy waters of applying for CAO and how it works – not forgetting the all-important information on dates and fees, as they set their sights on a third-level course that could shape their lives for the next few years and beyond. However, not everyone will end up with the Leaving Cert results required to book a place in their chosen course, and it’s important that those unfortunate to lose out don’t despair. You will also learn about PLC courses and the exciting news that Computer Science has now been added to the Leaving Certificate curriculum. There are also tips for people applying for jobs and the problems you are likely to encounter along the way. Wishing you all the very best of luck, whatever path you end up on!

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LEARNINGCURVE

A real buzz about further education in Dun Laoghaire

YOU may not immediately notice the DFEi building on Cumberland Street in Dun Laoghaire because it is situated in the quiet end of the town. However, there’s a completely different feeling

once you pass through its automatic doors – a feeling of buzzing energy, with students going to and fro as they attend the DFEi’s classes. With learners of all ages and from diverse back-

grounds drawn together, DFEi’s students all seem to be on a personal mission, with a dizzying range of courses to suit all interests. As just some examples, would-be media students

have everything from a sound studio for recording to DFEi’s very own radio studio, The Wave (at 107.8fm) to get involved with, alongside contemporary journalism studies. Others may be learning

FUNDING

€27.5m boost for education THE Government’s

announcement of a €47.5 million increase in funding for the higher and further education sector in Budget 2018 will also make €310 million available by 2021 to address the infrastructure needs of the sector. With its strong record in academic excellence coupled with a student-focused approach to education, see for yourself why DFEi in Dun Laoghaire has established itself as a superb centre of learning

in the lab, with everything from dissections to veterinary assistance skills to get to grips with. Meanwhile, business learners can get to grips with everything from computerised payroll to databases, with office administration learners acquiring the languages of medicine and the law. These are just a few examples of DFEi’s wide range of courses, with it catering for the creative and the practical alike with a true commitment to meeting its learners’ needs. W hether hands-on learning in furniture making and restoration, and musical instrument making and repair demand the tools of the trade, or more people-focused studies for the security learners, DFEi’s broad range of courses with a common

mental skills and survival techniques that will put them on the ladder to a third level qualification in their chosen area. As every student doesn’t learn in the same way or at the same pace, if you have particular learning support requirements, they will be met at DFEi. As you’d expect, DFEi’s courses are also designed to meet current industry standards, adding another impressive reason to study there. To find out more, come along to DFEi’s upcoming information day on Wednesday, January 24, from 10am – 4pm. The DFEi will be only too happy to offer advice and guidance about the courses on offer, as well as giving you the chance to view the facilities, and get a feel for its inclusive educational environment.

Computer Science set to be added to the Leaving Cert STUDENTS from 40 schools will be first to start

tion of problems, and how computing technology

studying Leaving Certificate Computer Science

impacts the world around us. Announcing the new subject, Minister for Edu-

The introduction of Computer Science as a

cation Richard Bruton said: “The introduction of

Leaving Certificate subject is part of the Gov-

this new subject will teach our young people flex-

ernment’s overall commitment to embed digital

ible, solution-orientated thinking.

technology in teaching and learning.

“It will teach them to be creative, adaptable

The announcement is one of a range of that

learners. It will increase the number of students

have been outlined in the STEM (Science, Tech-

taking up computing and STEM courses and

nology, Engineering and Maths) strategy and

apprenticeships after school, leading to a highly-

Action Plan for Education, which aims to make

skilled workforce.

Ireland the best education and training service in Europe by 2026. The move will focus on how programming and computational thinking can be applied to the solu-

Reform, Paschal Donohoe, said “continuing investment

goal of helping everyone achieve their purpose is all in a day’s work. Something else helps DFEi to really stand out – the connection between its teachers and learners, with one-to-one conversation and individual engagement a core part of the DFEi experience. Whether offering reassurance, explanation or clarification, news about work experience or progression with an assignment, its teachers are truly committed to helping each and every learner. If, for whatever reason, you do not get enough points for your chosen third level course, consider spending a year in DFEi – it’s a tried and tested way to get a place in college through its many defined progression routes. Learners are taught in small classes the funda-

from this September.

Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and

“I’m delighted we were able to bring the introduction of this subject forward to this year as I think it is an important and timely addition to our education system.”

in education remains a priority for this government”, adding that the sector was vital for the Irish economy. A decision is still to be made on a new higher education funding model, following a €36.5 million increase in funding to the sector in the previous budget.

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Stillorgan draws students in to prepare for the future STILLORGAN College of Further Education has been a specialist centre for further education/postLeaving Cert courses since 1986. During this time it has developed an enviable reputation for its delivery of further education programmes. The college offers a range of practical courses that develop the necessary skills for the workplace or to progress to further study in institutes of technology or universities. The college is innovative in providing courses that meet the current

needs of industry. One of its new courses is a Level 5 course in illustration and design. This exciting course introduces students to the wide-ranging discipline of illustration and helps them gain an improved understanding of the possibilities of image-making. A second new course for 2018/2019 is a Level 6 course in photography. This course builds on the long-established and successful Level 5 course in photography. Another recent addition to the list of courses is a Level 5 course in ani-

Stillorgan College of Further Education’s Level 5 course in animation is just one of the diverse range of creative courses giving it an impressive reputation

mation. This introductory course prepares students with little or no experience for a third-level course in animation production. With a dual focus on

drawing and computer skills, the course covers all the fundamental areas required for a successful portfolio submission. One of the longest

established courses in the college is the art foundation course. This course provides tuition in areas such as drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics and combined materials. The college also offers Level 5 and Level 6 course in multimedia and web development. Also on offer is a travel and tourism course with airline studies. This course prepares students for work in all areas of the travel industry. Courses in media production, journalism and Level 5 and 6 courses in computer skills for busi-

ness round off the extensive offering of courses in the college. The staff of the college have extensive industry experience in their respective fields and are dedicated to ensuring that, whether aiming to move to higher education or entering the employment market, students leave the college with every skill necessary for the future. For further information about the courses available in the college, see www.stillorgancollege. ie, or visit the college on Wednesday, January 24 for its information evening.

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

FUNDING

€27.5m boost for education THE Government’s

announcement of a €47.5 million increase in funding for the higher and further education sector in Budget 2018 will also make €310 million available by 2021 to address the infrastructure needs of the sector. Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform, Paschal Donohoe, said “continuing investment in education remains a priority for this government”, adding that the sector was vital for the Irish economy. A decision is still to be made on a new higher education funding model, following a €36.5 million increase in funding to the sector in the previous budget.

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LEARNINGCURVE

Stillorgan College of Further Education’s Level 5 course in animation is just one of the diverse range of creative courses giving it an impressive reputation

mation. This introductory course prepares students with little or no experience for a third-level course in animation production. With a dual focus on

drawing and computer skills, the course covers all the fundamental areas required for a successful portfolio submission. One of the longest

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LEARNINGCURVE See first-hand ITB’s superb course range ON MONDAY, January 29, the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown will host an online Q&A session aimed at persons applying for a course to the CAO this year. Taking place from 11am to noon, and again from 4.30pm to 5.30pm, this session is a great opportunity to get all your questions answered by an expert team from the institute’s admissions team. Simply log on to www.itb.ie/askitb to participate on the day. If you would like to see ITB’s state-of-the-art campus in person, an open evening takes place on Tuesday, April 17 from 5pm to 7pm. Academic staff and students from all courses will be present on the night to assist you with any ques-

The Institute of Technology Blanchardstown’s upcoming online Q&A session, and open evening later this year, are great ways to learn about its excellent courses

tions you may have about applying to college, and this event is highly recommended if you are unsure of what course to choose. The Institute of Technology Blanchardstown offers a wide variety of full-time and part-time

courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level. Programmes include Applied Social Studies, Business, Computing, Creative Digital Media, Engineering, Horticulture, Social and Community Development, Sports Management and

Early Childhood Care & Education. Applications for part-time courses will open in March. Recently, a brand-new programme, entitled “Learn & Work”, was launched. This innovative higher education model combines training along

with work placement and aims to provide jobseekers with an opportunity get the necessary training and experience to ready them for the workplace. Students on this course will be offered work placements in a variety of prestigious companies where they will be coached by industry experts. Two programmes are currently offered under the Learn & Work programme: • BSc in Process Instrumentation & Automation • Higher Certificate in Science in Computing in Networking technologies Applications for Learn & Work are made directly to ITB. For further info, please see www.itb.ie/ learnandwork. The institute would also like to remind all

CAO applicants of its “REACH2 access programme, which is currently open for applications. REACH is an admissions scheme which offers places on ITB’s courses on reduced points, to school leavers from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. Another scheme, entitled the “Sporting Prowess Programme”, is also open for applications. This programme is aimed at prospective students who display an outstanding sporting ability at a national or regional level, and offers an opportunity to participate on Sports Management & Coaching Courses on a reduced points basis. For further information, see www.itb.ie/cao.

PLCs offer a real route to success A NEW report carried out by the ESRI has highlighted the positive role played by the provision of PLC courses in Ireland. The PLC programme is the largest of the full time further education and training programmes with over 30,000 places and an investment of over €160 million each year. On average, PLC learners are 16% more likely to be in employment than if they had just entered the labour market straight after the Leaving Certificate. The report also highlights a number of challenges for policy development in the PLC sector, indicating a need for greater responsiveness of job-specific PLC courses to changing labour market conditions in terms of the types of courses offered and closer links with employers, as well as enhanced guidance for learners and extra training for teaching staff. Responding to the report, Minister for Education and Skills Richard Bruton said: “I am determined to increase the range and quality of the pathways for people to fulfil their career ambitions during

my time as Minister. “If we want to be the best in Europe, by 2026, we need to ensure that we provide many different opportunities for people to achieve their ambitions. “The report being published today confirms the positive role played by PLC provision. “On average PLC learners are 16% more likely to be in employment than if they had just entered the labour market straight after the Leaving Certificate.” Endorsing the plan, Minister for Skills, John Halligan said: “I am confident that the implementation of these recommendations will build on the success of the PLC programme and ensure we deliver high quality further education and training, supporting learners to achieve their progression and employment goals. “PLC has a strong regional and local footprint and will support balanced regional growth, as it is planned and delivered alongside other FET and higher education provision.” Speaking at the launch of the report,

CAREERS

Some top tips for everyone applying for a job WHETHER you’re looking to go straight into the workplace after finishing school, or if you’re looking to take the next step on your career, it’s vital that you prepare for the task ahead. Although finding that dream (or ‘just’ your next) job could seem like a daunting task, recruitment experts offer a number of simple, clear objectives to help get that job you’re looking for. Keep these next few points in mind, and you’ll be on your way ... 1. Pretty much everything and everyone is online now, so tailor your profile to meet current online standards and expectations. These days, many employers and potential recruiters will look to check a candidate’s online profile, especially if you’ve listed it for them. 2. If presenting a professional profile, such as on LinkedIn, ensure that it’s up to date and is also as accurate as possible.

Contacts 3. Don’t be afraid to turn to your existing contacts, and maintain an amicable, courteous relationship with them. Ex-colleagues, lecturers, and even your favourite teachers could all help you on the way, or down the road, and the vast majority will be delighted to help. 4. Last but not least, make your application relevant to the role itself and the company. Your one-size-fitsall CV and cover letter could be great ... if you just want a ‘McJob’. “PLC learners are 16% more likely to be in employment than if they had just entered the labour market straight after the Leaving Certificate”

However, virtually every employer or recruiter looks for, and expects, tangible

Paul O’Toole, CEO of SOLAS said: “The PLC programme is a hugely important part of the further education and training landscape.

“SOLAS welcomes today’s publication. The research has identified many benefits for the approximate 30,000 learners that do PLC coursers in Ireland each year.”

proof that you want that specific job in that company, so be clear without going overboard.

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Face the future with IT Tallaght’s superb courses, facilities ITTALLAGHT offers prospective students a wide range of career-focused certificate, degree, masters and PhD programmes that will suit a variety of educational backgrounds and career aspirations. Courses have both a practical and professional emphasis; a studentsupportive environment; smaller class sizes, and excellent levels of lecturer access and support. The primary focus of all IT Tallaght courses is to prepare students for the

world of work. For instance, work placements and/or industry projects form a key part of most of ITT’s full-time courses, helping students to become workready, and begin their journey towards rewarding employment.

Open Evening There is an on-campus open evening from 5pm to 8pm on January 25. This event is suited to those who are considering in enrolling in full- or

part-time courses in 2018, where there will be course experts available to discuss the details of the programmes and answer any queries regarding courses, CAO applications, fees, grants, careers, etc.

Bus Service Two private bus routes; (A: Kildare town to ITT, serving Newbridge, Naas and Rathcoole, and B: Maynooth to ITT, serving Celbridge, Leixlip, Lucan, Griffeen, Ballyowen, Ronanstown/Fonthill)

allow students ease of access to and from the college. These bus ser vices reflect the growing popularity of ihe Institute in the areas of southwest Dublin, Kildare and west Wicklow.

Campus Development IT T has recently secured a multimillioneuro capital investment to deliver a significant part of its overall campus development plan. This announcement follows a rigorous competitive and prioritisation process managed by the Department of Education & Skills with the Higher Education Authority. The funding will provide state-of-the art facilities for a technical development centre (ie prac-

Not content to rest on its laurels, IT Tallaght is looking to the future, with plans to develop its range of impressive courses and facilities

tice-based learning facilities for Engineering and Science programmes); facilities for the Culinary Arts and Hospitality disciplines, including new classrooms and computer laboratories.

Creche In addition, ITT’s oncampus creche opened on January 8 under the new management of Orchard House Ltd, which will operate as Oakview Tallaght to manage on-site the Early Years facility for the next three years.

This appointment of a childcare provider ensures the facility continues to operate in accordance with national childcare requirements.

Technological University (TU) ITT, DIT and ITB have created the TU for Dublin Alliance, and are committed to jointly establishing a Technological University for Dublin in the very near future. Building on their respective histories and distinctive strengths, the

objective is to combine ideas and resources to create a world-renowned institution of higher learning, and collaborating with civic, academic and industry partners. T he Technological University will be developed on three physical campuses located at Tallaght, Grangegorman and Blanchardstown. For further information, see www.it-tallaght.ie/ fulltimecourses; www.ittallaght.ie/parttimecourses, and www.it-tallaght.ie/ bus-and-rail-routes.

Students face challenging times as they look for a new place to live – but it’s vital they make sure their new place is safe ANOTHER year, and another challenging time lies ahead for many students looking to find accomodation, as many have found leases expiring or the need to move home. While it’s understandable that many may leap at finding a home – any home – in the current housing crisis, it’s vital that you ensure your place is safe. The following tips may help to put your mind at rest – and keep you safe in the coming months ... 1. Check the electrics and appliances– With rented residential accommodation it is the Landlord’s responsibility to ensure that the electrical installation and appliances provided by the landlord are safe when the tenancy begins and are in proper working

order throughout the tenancy. 2. Look for damp – If your house smells musty or you see evidence of mould, find out how the landlord is planning to fix the problem in the long term as mould has several health risks. 3. Raise the alarm – It is the landlord’s duty to provide fire and carbon monoxide alarms, as well as fire extinguishers, but the tenants should always test alarms on a regular basis. 4. Furniture and fittings – Ask the landlord for a list of everything that is included and make note of any damage that is there before you move it. 5. Heating requirements – Does your house have oil or gas fired central heating? The Health & Safety Authority recommends

that all boilers should be serviced annually and tenants looking at an oil-fired property should ask for evidence of recent servicing. If you have concerns, ask for a CD/12 Landlord Oil Installation Check, which is carried out by an OFTEC-registered technician and will give you peace of mind. If the property has a gas boiler it must be checked by a qualified technician. 6. Note fire escapes – This is important particularly for apartment blocks but make sure they are secure from the outside to prevent unwanted visitors. 7. Secure your home – burglars target student areas because of lax security. Ask your landlord to fit key-operating locks on the windows and five-lever deadlocks on external doors.

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DUBLINLIFE

 JAMES HENDICOTT HAVING put aside his demons and tackled the dramas of recording an album that really didn’t go to plan, Paddy Hanna’s had a rocky road to his sophomore release, but he’s staring proudly over those roadblocks. Castleknock native Paddy Hanna has been in a fair few bands in his time, but over the last few years he’s been operating under his own moniker, drawing the crowds though the distinctive vocals of his leftfield indiepop ditties. A former core member of popular and borderline-defunct DIY collective Popical Island and frontman for one of their key acts, Grand Pocket Orchestra, Hanna released his debut album ‘Leafy Stiletto’ in 2014. Years later, his return with his latest ‘Frankly, I Mutate’ might be greatly delayed, but has already drawn the attention of the likes of NME and Stereogum through its early singles. His style is one of emotive vocals, gorgeous yet jarring instrumentals and slowbuilding, dramatic peaks. It’s been a difficult road for Hanna, though, who’s never been afraid to speak his mind on the problems musicians face. “Things are totally different this time,” he tells us. “I’ve had line up changes and life changes. I’ve tackled some mental health issues; spent some time on finding things that work. I started working on this album when I went onto medication. I was looking at things with a new clarity.” Things were to go a little haywire, though, with the recording process brutally interrupted, and the album release - originally planned for last year - heavily delayed. “I lost my manager half way through the two weeks in the studio,” Hanna recalls. “It was strange, as he’d introduced me to Daniel [Fox, the producer who was to be heavy influence on the album’s style], and really set this project in motion. “The wall of sound affect Daniel introduced is an essential element on the new album. It was our project, in many ways, but my old manager decided half way through that he didn’t want to carry on. It’s a funny one. You’ll hear it on the album. Half the tracks are me excited about being back in the studio, and have that feel to them. The other half are very different. After the manager left there was some drinking and some really wasted vocal takes. I guess the contrast is part of the mystique of it.” Astonishingly, the studio was to close shortly after Hanna’s recording, too, meaning a number of tweaks to the record had to be done elsewhere, further complicating the process by the requirement for a new studio a fresh set up. Eventually, the seasoned performer - at something of a loose end - hooked up with Galway music legend and Roisin Dubh main man Gugai, who will release ‘Frankly, I Mutate’ on his Strange Brew label.

TAKE OUT THE CALLIPERS

MUSIC

the thick-skinned return of Paddy Hanna

Photos: Stephen White

After such a shaky process, though, there’s no question the early signs are good. “I guess the new stuff has got more attention than previous singles,” Hanna admitted. “I’m not sure if it’s because it’s better material, or because it’s building on my previous stuff.” That process has been far from smooth sailing, however. “You have to come through some difficult stuff as any kind of musician or artist. So many people just leave it behind,” Hanna points out. “It’s financially difficult, and you just have to come through so much soul-destroying waiting and sheer indifference. You have to just keep going until you get a second skin. Sometimes I just want to tell people to keep going, to wait and to grow those callipers a little bit., that they’ll get there.” Popical Island, the popular collective of friends that brought both Hanna and some of the Dublin indie scene’s most compelling contemporaries into the local music limelight, is sadly all but defunct today. Hanna’s been somewhat

critical of the group in the past, but insists his complaints came from a good place. “I love those guys. We drifted together as bordering on inseparable friends, and I guess it drifted apart in a similar way. It was very difficult to push yourself there, and I felt like they should have wanted more,” Hanna explains. “I regret saying some of the things I did about them, I was quite critical in interviews, and I think it upset some of them. But it came from a place of love. L o v e and

anger are very close together. It’s not gone, but it’ll certainly be quiet for some time.” As for reaching that much-desired success? “I have my yardstick,” Hanna tells us. “It’s to headline a certain venue of a certain size. I don’t want to say where, but I haven’t got there yet. Until I get there, it’ll be about pushing hard, because that’s what you have to do.” Paddy Hanna’s second solo album ‘Frankly, I Mutute’ is out on March 2.

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

GAZETTE

LETS GO OUT MUSIC

PICK OF THE WEEK THE KOOKS

@ THE OLYMPIA THEATRE ENGLISH pop rock band The Kooks bring their ‘Best Of’ tour to The Olympia Theatre on January 18, 19 and 20 2018. Tickets priced from €40.05 including booking fee and €1 restoration levy.

BEST OF THE REST JANUARY 18 (Thursday) Ones to Watch - Upcoming music festival @ Whelan’s, €5 Whelan’s annual January showcase aims to bring together a host of local musical newcomers to showcase their craft across several stages. A bargain chance to see future stars, it’s €5 per evening, or €10 for all four nights (Thursday to Sunday). Check Whelan’s social media for the (often lateannounced) acts and timetable breakdown.

Three Trapped Tigers @ The Bowery, €20 Escape the Fate + Set to Stun + Shields UK @ Voodoo Lounge, €20

Michael Buckley’s Dublin Standard Time @ Bruxelles, €10 JANUARY 19 (Friday) Little Green Cars @ Pavilion Theatre, €26 With beautiful harmonies about life and love, Little Green Cars are a unheralded gem of Irish music just waiting to be uncovered. Expect beautiful vocals, loud-quiet melodrama and an understated cool.

The Kooks @ The Olympia Theatre, €40-45 Ones to Watch - Upcoming music festival @ Whelan’s, €5 Robotrock @ The Grand Social Davina and the Messengers @ The Button Factory, free

JANUARY 20 (Saturday) Cloud Castle Lake @ Bellobar, €14 Chilled and understated, Cloud Castle Lake play with tones and understated complexity on their sophisticated fuzzy indie tracks. Think intricate, quietly memorable post-rock. Ones to Watch - Upcoming music festival @ Whelan’s, €5 Little Green Cars @ Pavilion Theatre, €26 The Kooks @ The Olympia Theatre, €40-45 The Kahoots @ The Button Factory, free JANUARY 21 (Sunday) August Alsina + Tone Stith @ The Olympia Theatre, €28 Ones to Watch - Upcoming music festival @ Whelan’s, €5

Mary Coughlan @ Vicar Street, €33 JANUARY 23 (Tuesday) Lau @ Whelan’s, €20 The Ruby Sessions @ Doyles, €6 JANUARY 24 (Wednesday) Wallis Bird @ Whelan’s, €22 Wallis Bird’s relocation to Germany was a huge loss to Irish music - she’s a wonderful live musician who used to pop up effervescently all over the city. Fortunately she’s regularly back, and her jubilant live show of leftfield acoustic pop is unmissable and wonderful.

Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams @ Upstairs at Whelan’s, €16.50

GAZETTE

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE 18 January 2018

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA ReelReviews

THE POST

A press worth opening SET in a time when almost everybody still bought newspapers and ‘fake news’ wasn’t yet a widespread denial of reality, The Post (Cert 12A, 115 mins) is director Spielberg’s love letter to journalistic integrity. Stars Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep excel as The Washington Post’s editor and publisher respectively, as they mull over tough choices in what they can can – and should – publish in the paper.

Playing a grieving but determined mum seeking justive over her murdered daughter, Frances McDormand yet again steals the show with her tough but very human character. McDormand’s intensity anchors the film, creating someone who’s not always likeable, but always worth rooting for.

THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI: RAW, INTENSE ROLES IMPRESS

A three-mendous film

FRANCES McDormand is a force to be reckoned with in Martin McDonagh’s intimate epic, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (Cert 15A, 115 mins). The filmmaker’s third feature-length outing, Three Billboards is a film mired in all sorts of tragedy, delving into characters as they grieve over the loss of a loved one, and others as they come to terms with their own approaching demise. Yet from all this pain, McDonagh finds a way to inspire joy, provoke lasting contemplation and deliver effortless laughs with razor-sharp wit and deep, dark humour. Sick of the local law enforcement’s lacklustre efforts in hunting down her daughter’s murderer, Mildred Hayes (McDormand) rents out three billboards on the outskirts of town, plastering them with

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

a damning message aimed squarely at the town’s sheriff, William Willoughby ( Woody Harrelson). More so than the sheriff himself, Mildred’s controversial act is a smack in the face to his secondin-command, Officer Dixon (Sam Rockwell) – a violent drunk at whom accusations of racism are frequently levelled. Though intended to light a fire under the town’s lawmen, Mildred’s act of defiance sends shockwaves throughout Ebbing, revealing its inhabitants at their best, their repugnant worst and their most devastatingly human. Crafted with a precision

honed over two solid directorial efforts, an Oscar-winning short and a celebrated playwriting career, McDonagh’s tightly woven narrative catches us off guard time after time, like an unpredictable series of devious chess moves. Ev e r y s u r e f o o t e d dramatic step, insignificant as some may feel, has a part to play in Three Billboards. This is masterful filmmaking: heartbreaking and emotional, but never sentimental; leisurely paced but never sluggish; didactic and intensely thought-provoking, but never heavy-handed. Each player in this expansive cast turns in a performance that will likely sit at the critical zenith of their filmographies for years to

Co-star Woody Harrelson has a surprisingly affecting role as an ‘inept’ sheriff

come. While the ostensible adversary from word one (if Mildred’s billboards are to be taken at face v a l u e ) H a r r e l s o n ’s Sheriff Willoughby is perhaps the story’s most compassionate figure – an instigator of certain acts both calculated and considerate; acts that push the narrative in directions we never expect. Rockwell’s Officer Dixon is drunken, violent and erratic – an unstable buffoon and a seeming bigot. And yet, coupled with McDonagh’s deft, authentic approach to crafting his

characters, Rockwell’s Golden Globe-winning performance moulds D i xo n ’s d e s p i c a b l e presence into something genuinely human; against all odds, we find ourselves quietly rooting for this idiot. Ultimately, however, Three Billboards is all about Mildred – all about Francis McDormand’s powerful, tragic and inspiring performance. T here’s something almost Terminator-like about Mildred’s intensity, her perseverance through grief and unquenchable thirst for justice. L i ke t h e b e s t dramatic turns, we know instinctively that no one else could play Mildred and, accordingly, McDormand gives us one of the year’s finest performances. As with McDonagh’s Irish-set

plays, Three Billboards Outside of Ebbing, Missouri exists in a kind of imagined America, somewhere between reality and what an outsider perceives looking in. Consequently, unbound to questions of authenticity, his story manages to say more about modern America than any exercise in precise realism ever could. From the offset, we’re never sure where Three Billboards will end up. This is a story laden with twists; twists both in narrative and our own perception, twists that provoke a change in our outlook on life and, as only the greatest films do, provoke a change in us on a fundamental level, leaving us a different person to the one that entered the cinema. These day, few films hold that power.

Verdict: 10/10

THE LAST JEDI

Still a Forceful franchise MARK Hamill excels as an older, jaded Luke Skywalker in The Last Jedi (Cert 12A, 155 mins) – just one of several good points about the latest Star Wars film. Although it’s not as focused and tightly edited as its predecessor, there’s something spinetingling about seeing the late Carrie Fisher (as General Leia) in her final film. Oh, and our own Skellig Islands look great as Luke’s home, too!

JUMANJI

A jungle-icious update NOT quite a reboot of the classic Robin Williams film, but more of a reimagining drawing inspiration from it, Jumanji (Cert 12A, 119 mins) turns out to be a surprisingly fun romp through the Jumanji universe. Again taking a core premise of kids getting sucked into a game, some older teens find themselves trapped in their gaming alter egos, and forced to survive in the Jumanji jungle world.

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

TRAVEL Palacio Estoril Sports &

Just the sight of

Performance, Portugal

Amanpuri Awareness Immersion’s pool in Thailand is relaxing

The Retreat Costa Rica Yoga, Costa Rica

Ayii Anargyri Healing, Cyprus

WELLNESS: TREAT YOUR BODY AND MIND TO THE INVIGORATING BREAK YOU DESERVE

Make your new year plans a glorious, relaxing reality  SYLVIA POWNALL Travel Editor

HOW many times have you heard the phrase, “New Year, New You”? “More than one too many” is the probable answer. Nonetheless, with the focus firmly on health, fitness and well-being, one of your resolutions could be a health or fitness holiday – combining a love of travel with other positive habits. Here are just a few recommendations, courtesy of the experts at Health & Fitness Travel ...

The Sports Performance Break – Palacio Estoril Sports & Performance, Portugal The five-star resort Palacio Estoril on the sunny coast of Cascais offers spor ts enthusiasts an opportunity

to overcome physical and mental barricades, enhancing performance and refining skill. Tr e a t m e n t s i n cl u d e physiotherapy and Chinese medicine to give guests improved posture and wellbeing. The programme also focuses on nutritional performance enhancement, p r ov i d i n g a l l t h e t o o l s necessary to achieve athletic goals.

The Luxury Beach Spa Break – Amanpuri Awareness Immersion, Thailand Amanpuri is hidden amidst palm-fringed, white sand beaches, and architecture inspired by ancient Ay utthayan culture and oozes timeless luxury. The awareness immersion programme, guided by a

former Buddhist monk, is a meditative experience encouraging the renewal of internal focus, synchronising the mind, body and soul. Indulgent spa treatments (such a s cra nia l sa cra l therapy) complement the programme, along with unrivalled nutritional support.

The Yoga Trip – The Retreat Costa Rica Yoga, Costa Rica The Retreat is a Costa R ican haven set among quartz mountains and lush vegetation. Master the asanas and find inner peace with daily private and group yoga practices. For beginners and advanced yogis alike, a week of seclusion and serenity will be beneficial both physically and mentally, improving f lexibility, strength, and

balance, as well as emotional clarity and stress. This healthy yoga escape also includes a hike, wellness workshops, a healing massage and a trip to a local farmers’ market.

The Mediterranean Healthy Escape – Ayii Anargyri Healing, Cyprus A boutique hotel amid a valley of mature trees in the village of Miliou, Cyprus, Ayii Anargyri promotes an idyllic location for a healthy healing escape. Restore well-being as you harness the time-tested, natural healing powers of the area’s mineral-rich waters. Find profound calmness and tranquility through hydrotherapy treatments such as underwater massage, and treat ailments in the phlebology, kinesiotherapy,

and rheumatology pools. The healing waters are also utilised in spa therapies such as the indulgent mud therapy cocoons and massages.

The Safari and Yoga Break – Karkloof Safari & Yoga, South Africa Combining passions for yoga and nature, this takes you to one of the most exceptional and unspoilt areas of South Africa and i n c o r p o r a t e s t wo g a m e drives. With daily yoga classes, mountain biking, fishing, and guided hikes, finding your connection with nature and developing inner peace has never come more naturally.

The Trip of a Lifetime – Ultimate Around the World One-Year Wellness Trip This is an unbeatable opportunity, both in terms of experience and sheer luxury. Enjoy yoga on private island ‘parrot cay’ one week, then scuba diving in The Great Barrier Reef the next. Other highlights include ayurvedic therapy in India, hiking in Utah and a guided tour of Istanbul’s architecture. With more than 20 stops on this year-long voyage, you will be both vastly cultured and a master of your own health and fitness. At €156k per person, however, you might want to check your Lotto ticket first ...

Some flights can be arranged from Dublin depending on the destination, others depart from London. For advice, further guidance and booking, see www healthandfitnesstravel. com, or telehone 0044 203 397 8891.

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34 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 18 January 2018

SPORT

FastSport MUCKROSS AND ANVILLE ADVANCE: MUCKROSS Park and Mount Anville will contest the Leinster schoolgirls Senior Premier League hockey semi-finals on January 23 following victories last Friday over Wesley College and St Andrew’s. Muckross won through in a shootout after normal time had ended 2-2. They had led 2-0 via Isabelle Maleady and Louise McGrane before Wesley stormed back through Lynne Pomeroy and Aisling Ellis. But the Donnybrook school prevailed in the eighth round of the shootout to advance. In the second semi-final, Natasha Twomey scored twice for Mount Anville in addition to one from Grace Keane to see them win out 3-1 against St Andrew’s for whom Robyn Lewis had given a lifeline with 20 minutes to go.

BASKETBALL: UCD MARIAN SEE OFF TEMPLEOGUE BY A MASSIVE 19 POINTS

Liapakis underplays victory in cup final dress rehearsal

 KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

UCD MARIAN maintained their lead at the top of the Men’s Super League following an 85-66 point win over Black Amber Templeogue at Belfield last weekend, while Pyrobel Killester racked up the scores to remain on the heels of their Dublin rivals. The win sees them stay top ahead of Garveys Tralee Warriors on points difference but with two games in hand, and three points clear of Killester in third with one game in hand. Dan James, Barry Drumm and Mike Garrow all impressed in front of the hoop to give UCD a 10-point lead going into the half-time break. The second half was even more comfortable for the home team as they kept the score board ticking over nicely to secure their eleventh league win of the campaign. Speaking after the game, UCD manager Ioannis Liapakis spoke about the overriding feeling he experienced after the victory, with a number of big games for his side during

Killester bounced back from last week’s defeat to see off KUBS. Picture: Martin Doherty

the month of January. “Relief because af ter a huge weekend last week, it is always difficult in the next game even if you play against one of the league’s top teams,” Liapakis said afterwards. “I think we did a great job defensively, which is natural for us. That helped us to win

the game by this score.” The two teams will meet again at the National Basketball Arena in a few weeks time when they descend on Tallaght to determine who will be crowned this year’s Hula Hoops National Cup champions. However, with a league fix-

ture still to contest between now and then, Lapiakis is looking no further than the next game. “This game is history now. The only thing we have in our heads right now is the next ‘final’ down in Maree. The past week, we didn’t talk at all about the cup final and we are

not going to talk about it this week either. The only thing we have right now is Maree,” said Liapakis. Killester recovered from their cup semi-final defeat to UCD the previous week to record a 103-77 point victory over local rivals KUBS BC. Griffith College Swords Thunder also secured the win on the road to Belfast Star, while a whopping 47 points from Demetrius Proby was enough to drive DCU Saints home to a 103-77 point win over fellow Dubliners, Eanna. Meanwhile, in the Women’s Super League Courtyard Liffey Celtics kept the pressure on DCU Mercy at the top of the league with a 77-57 win away to NUIG Mystics. T he victor y sees them remain second, behind DCU on points difference but having played a game more. Killester remain in midtable, however, after suffering a crushing 58-102 defeat to UCC Glanmire in Clontarf. The Cork team controlled the game throughput and hit an impressive 61 points in the second half to keep their league hopes alive.

Dublin trio advance in hockey’s Irish Senior Cup  STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@dublingazette.com

Mitch Darling on the attack for Three Rock Rovers against Cookstown. Picture: Adrian Boehm

LEADING Dublin trio Pembroke, Three Rover Rovers and Glenanne all advanced in the Irish Senior Cup last Saturday with wins over Ulster opposition. For a second week running, Pembroke put their fans through the ringer against mid-table Ulster Premier opposition. Last week, they just scraped by South Antrim 4-3. On Saturday, it was Mossley’s attempts at a giant killing and a double of Jordan Robinson and an Aaron

Boyd effort meant they they went toe-to-toe with their illustrious visitors. It sent their quarter-final tie to a shoot-out with normal time ending 3-3, matching goals from Harry Spain, Cian Murphy and Keith O’Hare. Pembroke prevailed 4-3 in the shoot-out, making them the first semi-finalist in the competition this year. In the quarter-finals, meanwhile, Three Rock advanced to an away date against Cork C of I thanks to a strong 5-2 win over Cookstown with Mitch Darling’s individual goal the highlight.

He broke 75 metres forward before turning a couple of defenders inside out and then picked out the top corner. It made it 4-2 after Rovers had found the Co Tyrone side a tough one to shake off. John Mullins and Jody Hosking had them 2-0 up inside 10 minutes and they led 3-1 at the break thanks to a close range finish from Ben Walker. but Michael Kerr and Greg Allen goals kept Cookstown interested until Darling’s goal. Daragh Walsh added a lovely final goal to close out the result.

Lisnagarvey eliminated Railway Union at the third attempt after two frozen dates, Sean Murray and Matthew Nelson doing the damage in a 2-0 win, scoring once in each half. EYHL leaders Glenanne proved far too strong for Queen’s in a 6-0 win with Shane O’Donoghue bagging a brace with further goals from Shannon Boucher, Adam Clayton, Eddie O’Malley and Neil Byrne. The Glens face Monkstown in the next round while Garvey will face YMCA - the last remaining Leinster Division One side.

18 January 2018 NORTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 35

GAZETTE

RUGBY

Lansdowne into Bateman final again after 86 years LANSDOWNE will contest their first Bateman Cup final since the headquarters club last lifted the trophy in 1931, with defending champions Cork Constitution providing the opposition over the weekend of April 21-22. It will be an all-Division 1A decider after the Dublin outfit avoided a potential banana skin with a 34-15 win against Sligo. The Connacht side were still very much still in the hunt when trailing 14-8 at half-time. Fullback Jack Keegan opened their account with a third-minute penalty, which whetted the big crowd’s appetite at Hamilton Park. Despite the hosts protesting that Lansdowne loosehead Greg McGrath was boring in, the visitors forced a penalty try from scrum pressure, before Sligo edged ahead on the 20-minute mark when they injected pace through their backs and centre Mark Rooney scored in the corner. Keegan, who had missed an earlier penalty, was off target with the difficult conversion and Lansdowne replied with a timely 36th-minute try. A well-executed lineout maul saw their Connacht-capped hooker Jack Dinneen touch down with Scott Deasy converting for a 14-8 lead. The sides swiftly swapped tries on the resumption as this entertaining contest continued to ebb and flow. From a poor Sligo exit, Lansdowne winger Daniel McEvoy ran back a kick at searing pace, jinking in and out to break clear and score a brilliant try by the posts. Despite losing lock Ciaran Cassidy to the sin-bin for taking a player out from the restart, 14-man Sligo dug their heels in and a fine move, finished off by winger Philip Carter, kept their hopes alive at 21-15 down. Lansdowne went for the corner from penalties but the recent Connacht Senior Cup champions defiantly held out, and out-half Deasy was soon called upon to go for the posts and give the visitors a nine-point cushion. Mike Ruddock’s men have been a class apart in the Ulster Bank League’s top flight so far this season and their strength in depth, including some strong-carrying forwards on the bench, allowed them to seal the result with two late unconverted tries from Charlie Butterworth and Harry Brennan.

Italian job offers new footballing pathway John Deans speaks to the Dublin Gazette about how Irish players can find a different route to the professional ranks  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

JOHN DEANS is using his international contacts to try and introduce a new wave of young Irish players to a more unusual path to professionalism: Italy. He aims to provide an alternative pathway to the typical plan to move to the UK as teenagers and the high attrition rate it brings. He is using the Italian contacts he made whilst working with Woods in an ambitious attempt a different method, working with contacts built up as a long time employee of UK agent Derek Woods. “I’ve been involved in football a long time,” Deans told the Dublin Gazette. “I have been trying to get these contacts

to take a look at some players for a few years, and finally I got a call in 2016 from a guy at Roma. He said he was coming over to take a look at some lads, and bringing some other scouts with him.” It was to be a slow process but one that holds plenty of promise for the young Irish players involved. “I set up three or four games in July 2016 and some agents came over to look at them. The players come from outside of the typical big youth clubs that have scouts regularly watching them in Ireland like St Kevin’s and St Joseph’s. “A lot of the players that are coming out to Italy this time come from less obvious clubs; I have lads from areas like Harold’s

Cross, Kevin Street, St Francis and Tallaght.” The games that started the process took place in Dublin in 2016 and saw just under 90 players take part. The Italian visitors chose to invite 24 players out to Italy to have another look at them. In August 2017, 120 players trialled with two dozen chosen by Italian coaches for further scrutiny. To allow for issues such as the language barrier and initial integration difficulties, Deans will be taking out two groups of 12 through January and February, the first of which arrived in Naples earlier this week. Rather than heading in smaller numbers, as is typical, the Irish lads have created ‘teams’ who have been training together

The Irish contingent that arrived in Italy earlier this week for a unique trials experience.

over the last few weeks. “They all know each other, and have been training at Sacred Heart FC, who kindly lent us their facilities for the last six weeks to work on the trip,” Deans said. “We’ll be playing 27 kilometres outside of Naples against Under-17 teams like Atletico Sorrento and Benevento, teams that play in Serie B or Serie C of Italian football, though Benevento are currently bottom of Serie A. We’ll also be playing a university team. “We don’t want to be playing the academies from the really top teams as we have to give the team a chance to show what they can do. There are one or two who I think this could go a lot further and scouts from really big clubs will be there, includ-

ing Roma and Napoli. “Lots of boys travel to the UK and end up being released after two or three years,” Deans explains of the issues facing young soccer players trying to go pro. “They bring you over at 14 and often release you at 16. The releases are actually coming from the chairmen as it costs £30,000 to £40,000 to bring a player over for a year, pay a wage, train them, and keep them in food and accommodation. “If the next year group come through and look better, players get let go. They come back from the level they’ve been at, take a look at the League of Ireland, and a lot of them decide to just give it up. Over in Italy, the Serie B and Serie C clubs survive by selling players. They’re very much routes to the bigger clubs, so it’s a great chance for the boys.” Deans has been helped in his endeavours by a number of businesses that are sponsoring his Italian trip, including Frank Keane Liffey Valley, Facility Support Services, Tritech Engineering and John Ward Construction, as well as through the lend of those Sacred Heart FC facilities. “The reality of professional soccer is something people often don’t really understand,” he concludes. “It really is dog eat dog, and we’re going to have to get things right going forward in this country.”

GAZETTE

36 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 18 January 2018

SPORT

FASTSport

NEW INITIATIVE: BOHEMIANS AND ROVERS PART OF MAIDEN SEASON

Flying Duck Anna set to hit the ice in Korea FRIDAY, January 12 was more than an ordinary school day for Anna Capcarrere, a first year student at Lucan Community College. Together with her school, she proudly handed over a cheque in the sum of €400 to Aaron Giuli, President of the Irish Ice Hockey Association. This sponsorship money was raised by Capcarrere and her fellow students to help sponsor the Irish international Under-12s Irish ice hockey team – The Saints – of which she is a member. Her team travelled on Monday to the Inaugural 2018 Commemorative Imjin-Pyeongchang International Youth Ice Hockey Tournament South Korea to compete in a pre-Olympic tournament. The team will compete against teams from Canada, USA, Russia, Korea and Japan. She is one of the 16 players travelling and is the only female player in Ireland selected for the trip. As a female athlete, she is in good company at Lucan Community College, as one of Lucan CC PE teachers is former Irish Women’s International Rugby Captain, Fiona Coghlan. When asked for her view on the importance of sport in the life of teenage girls, Coghlan said she “felt that continuing sporting activity for all had more than just physical benefits” adding that “being involved with sports is beneficial to positive mental health and promotes the engagement of students with the community by being part of a team”. Capcarrere is a passionate ice hockey player and approached her school with the idea of a nonuniform day to raise funds for the trip. The Irish Ice Hockey Association receives no Government funding whatsoever and relies completely on sponsorship and other fundraising to enable it send teams to such events. Capcarrere began playing ice hockey at the age of nine when she joined the Flying Ducks Ice Hockey Club. President of the club Anna Daly explained that that the club has over 70 junior players currently and 30% of these are female, with new players joining every week. She considers Capcarrere to be an outstanding role model and mentor for the other players within the team, particularly the girls and younger beginners who regard her as “nothing less than a hero”. She says her Under-12s team mates just think of her as “just Anna, the team’s unstoppable defender and regard her without question as one of their own. Her gender does not even enter their minds”.

Christy McElligott, left, at the launch of Bohemians amputee football with new recruits and Dublin Mayor Micheal Mac Donncha

Amputee football league launches  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

IRELAND’S amputee football league will get underway in late February with the FAI’s Christy McElligott keen to invite further players to take part. The first season will open with Bohemians, Shamrock Rovers and Cork City as the three teams. Ireland has had an international amputee football team for sometime, and last year that team – in the form of a club side – travelled regularly to the UK to compete in their league, in the

absence of an Irish offering. That was an expensive undertaking and didn’t encourage more players to get involved. McElligott – formerly a St Patrick’s Athletic and Ballymun United player who lost his leg shortly after winning the FAI Junior Cup with United – hopes the new tournament will draw in new players and expand competition for the international side. In amputee football, all outfield players play with crutches, having either had a leg amputated, or been born without one. The crutches are treated much like hands and

MEDAL PRESENTATION Castleknock celebrate Major 2017 successes CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s Under-17 Major

double-winning team received their DDSL Cup and league trophies and medals at FAI Headquarters in Abbotstown last weekend. They now look forward to the new Youths League which combines the Under-17s and Under -18s for the new 2018 season. Castleknock Celtic are holding their next open day on Saturday, January 20 in Porterstown Park for new members who wish to join, covering the whole range of ages.

playing the ball with them is considered a handball except where accidental. Arm amputees are incorporated into the game as goalkeepers and, at international level, the game is seven-a-side. “We’ve spread the international players across the new teams to even things up,” McElligott tells us. “We’ll start off with the three teams, playing a series of round robin games at each of their home grounds. I have 40 players on my database who might get involved, so we could expand quickly. If we do, I hope to have two tiers.” “The League of Ireland

clubs have been great in really embracing the idea, and they could easily end up with two teams each, one in each of those two tiers. That would help with bringing in people, and they can start playing at a lower level, away from the international players. “While we don’t need international players for Ireland at the moment, I think it’s very important that the current players are put under a bit of pressure. They might be a bit comfortable with their places at the moment. “This will add to competition. We’ll play a league with a series of round robin games to

start with, at the different venues – Dublin, Cork, then Dublin again – and when the league comes to an end, we’ll run a cup tournament, too, and then have a couple of months off. That’s the plan.” “I’ve always said football is the best medicine,” McElligott concludes. With an entirely new league about to unroll under the stewardship of a passionate ex-professional player and amputee, it’s clear he believes it.” You can get in touch with the Irish amputee football team through their website, Facebook and Twitter pages.

18 January 2018 NORTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 37

GAZETTE

SOCCER: LATE EQUALISER SEES CLOVER NAB POINT

The St Mochta’s management team have not quite had the same momentum this season in the Sunday Senior

Mochta’s title defence stalled by Firhouse LSL SUNDAY SENIOR St Mochat’s Firhouse Clover  sport@dublingazette.com

2 2

ST MOCHTA’S conceded a late equaliser to draw 2-2 with Firhouse Clover in the LSL Senior 1 Sunday at Porterstown last weekend, as their title defence continues to stumble. The Saints shocked fans last season by taking a number of big scalps on the way to denying Bluebell United three league titles in a row by finishing on level points with Andy Noonan’s side but one ahead on goal difference. However, their maiden title defence has endured a spluttering start and they currently sit in fifth position after 13 games – having already lost the same amount of league games as they did during last year’s full campaign. Against Firhouse, Carl Forsyth got the visitors off to a great start by finding the back of the net after just five minutes. However, the Saints got themselves back on level terms five minutes later when Dean Kelly hit the

crossbar after magnificent play from Alan McGreal to set him up. David Somers reacted quickest to the rebound to finish past the keeper. Clover then had opportunities to restore their lead with the best coming after 18 minutes when Darren Forsyth chipped towards goal, but Morgan Cranley produced an excellent save to keep his effort out. He had another chance for a second goal two minutes later but he put his shot wide with just Cranley to beat. In a game that was starting to swing from end to end, Mochta’s went up the other end of the pitch and appealed for a penalty when Dean Kelly was bundled over. The referee waved play on, however, and the game went into the break with the sides level after Ciaran Ryan had an effort blocked with the goal at his mercy. Neither side grabbed the game by the horns during the opening stages of the second half, with Kelly’s chip the first big chance of the half on 75 minutes. Mochta’s sensed the

game was there for the taking and moved up a couple of gears to put their opponents under greater pressure. They eventually got their reward on 80 minutes when Anthony Murphy met Philip Hughes free into the box and powered a header past Ian Molloy and into the roof of the net. Firhouse looked to hit back and equalised five minutes from time when Rory O’Connor produced a sublime finish to ensure

his team would leave Porterstown with a share of the spoils. Mochta’s title hopes are by no means over with table toppers Killester United just seven points ahead, but a run of victories will be needed to drag themselves back into serious contention. The Saints will next be in action this Sunday when they travel to Wexford to take on North End United in the Leinster Senior Cup.

CROSSCountry

Dunne deal for Raheny man at Leinster Masters RAHENY Shamrock’s John Dunne, pictured, landed the Leinster masters title helping the master’s men to team gold as intermediate men took silver in Dunboyne. Ian McConkey took ninth place with Wes O’Brien 12th and Graham O’Dwyer just one place behind followed by Will Walsh in 18th place to give the men’s team 52 points taking silver behind Tullamore harriers with 33 points. In the women’s race, Orla Manley took a very impressive ninth place with Kate O’Dwyer 16th, Aine Crimin 17th and Hannah Craddock 20th. That gave the women’s team 62 points, just eight points behind Sportsworld who took silver ahead of St Senan’s on countback. Kate Martin and Laura Brennan also ran well to finish 28th and 31st in a competitive races. In the Masters women race Zoe Quinn was first home in 10th place followed by Lorraine Byrne 24th, Elaine O’Hagan McNulty 33rd and Louise Keogh 36th giving the masters women’s team 63 points a heart breaking two points off bronze. Mary Walsh finished 43rd with Rachel Ormrod 49th, Adrienne Atkins 53rd, Jenny Colbert 60th, Orla Lambe 62nd, Nora Byrne 67th and Brighid Smyth 88th. The women’s M50 team of Adrienne Atkins, Nora Byrne, Brighid Smyth collected bronze with 34 points just behind silver medallists Tullamore Harriers with 28 points while Mullingar Harriers took gold with 22 points. John Dunne won the masters men’s race outright and gold M35 gold with Ian Conroy second overall and silver medallist M35. Des Kennedy took fifth place overall and gold in the M45 category with Michael McMahon 12th overall to give the men’s team a straight forward team gold. Ian McConkey took 62nd place, Donald Quinn 84th, Brian Kelly 93rd, Damien Martin 114, Paul Hyland 121, David Kirwan 141, Peter Smyth 152. The masters 50’s team of Donald Quinn, Brian Kelly and Damien Martin were just eight points off the bronze medal. Elsewhere on a busy weekend Kieran Kelly helped Ireland to fourth in the 4x1km mixed relay at the Great Edinburgh cross country meet. Kelly was partnered with Eoin Everard, Laura Crowe and Kerry O’Flaherty.

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38 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 18 January 2018

GAZETTE

SPORT FASTGAA Stars come out for

LADIES FOOTBALL: ALL-IRELAND CHAMPIONS TAKE ON THE FINEST FROM

SENIOR DUB STARS

Dublin 5-8 Dub Stars 4-7  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

Naomh Mearnog’s Cian Hendricken started

Winters’ mixed day plays key role for Dub hurlers ST BRIGID’S Paul Winters had an eventful game as he scored 0-6 for Dublin’s senior hurlers before his red card coincided with Pat Gilroy’s side running out of steam in a 1-20 to 0-16 defeat to Wexford in the Walsh Cup semifinal. A storming last 20 minutes by the Slaneysiders saw Davy Fitzgerald’s men come from behind to run out seven-point victors at Parnell Park last Sunday. The Dubs led 0-11 to 0-8 at the interval and had stretched their advantage to 0-15 to 0-10 by the 45th minute, however, but Winters’ second yellow card arrived. Cathal Dunbar clinically executed 51st minute goal was the catalyst for Wexford’s charge for victory and coming so soon after Winters’ dismissal it rocked Dublin back on their heels.

THE DUBLIN ladies and the Dub Stars played out their annual pre-season contest on Sunday, and while it ended with substantial tallies on both sides and with a win for the county team, this was very much the game of two halves. In a patchy opening period, both sides looked – unsurprisingly – a little match-weary, as a strong-looking Dublin panel conceded plenty of possession, but were hardy in their defensive interference. They prevented stand out midfield performances from Sarah Fagan (Clontarf) and Jennifer Dunne (Cuala) from having the impact they perhaps should have. It was the more familiar face of a pitch-roaming

Carla Rowe (Clann Mhu- N e r n e y ( F o x r o c k 1-3 to 1-2 lead. to grips with the contest ire) who did most of the Cabinteely) broke clean There were reams of up front, and fired in two damage for the county through, only to fire high changes at half time, giv- goals early in the second team, fisting in to polish and wide when it looked ing Mick Bohan plenty to half, with Noelle Healy (St off a fluent move from easier to take a chance think about as the sides Brigid’s) scoring one and close range for the first on beating the ever-out- went all out for goals in key in another. She was points of the contest, add- standing Dublin ‘keeper a frantic second period. later to be named player ing a point late on in the Ciara Trant (St Brigid’s). The now much-altered of the match. half, and looking consist- The Dubs went in with a Dublin side were getting The pace continued, a ently dangerous throughout. Rowe’s frees looked a little rusty, but her general play stood out, with Eabha Rutledge (K ilmacud Crokes) and a high, swirling late score from Rebecca McDonnell (Clanna Gael Fontenoy) giving the Dublin side the narrowest of half time leads. They’d been pegged back by a period of midhalf dominance from their challengers, with a welltaken goal from Niamh Rickard (Fingallians). followed by two frees from Dunne during a phase of play in which they probably should have scored more. In particular, Laura The successful Dublin ladies football side, left, following their win in the Dub Stars tie;

CLUB NOTICEBOARD CASTLEKNOCK

THE club would like to wish all members a Happy New Year and welcome back. Nursery with thanks to Tigers Childcare is back this Saturday, January 20. New members always welcome. Nursery enquiries to lisakiernan1@gmail.com. Well done to Castleknock’s Niamh Rafferty who lined out with junior Dub Stars this morning. In a tight game, Niamh’s team were just pipped at the post by a last-minute point. Free Leaving Cert Irish grinds for club members on January 22 at 8pm upstairs in The Carpenter. Sincerest sympathies to Deborah and Tony Nulty, and sons Oisin and Daragh, on the recent death of Deborah’s brother Barry Cush. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis. No winner of our lotto jackpot with thanks to Rialto Ford. Numbers were 9, 16, 22, 25. Seven match three winners, winning €45 each. Lucky dip winner was Paul

Travers who takes home €30. Our new jackpot is €4,600 with the next draw in the Bell on January 18.

ERIN GO BRAGH

FIRST of all, Happy New Year to all of our members. As a club we are looking forward to a great season ahead. No winner of our lotto jackpot which is €4,800. Numbers drawn were 5, 17, 21 and 28. Congratulations to Ellen Gribben who has been selected for the Dublin U-16 ladies football panel for 2018. A huge achievement and well done from all at the club. Erin Go Bragh hurlers are looking for new players; if interested, please contact Karl on 087 2352074. Our nursery has restarted; it is in Hansfield on Saturday morning from 9.30-10.30am, in Phibblestown on Tuesday 6-7pm and on a Saturday from 11.30am to 12.45pm. New members are always welcome.

Please note our membership can now be paid online.

FINGALLIANS

AWARDS Night: Saturday, January 20 at 8.30pm in the club hall. Tickets are €10 and are available from the bar or lead mentors. Presentation of championship, league, cup medals and player of the year awards. E-Vetting: We are asking people to provide a copy of the e-vetting cert to the club. The club secretary will also receive a list of who is certified. Further information available from Paul Shannon in the club each Saturday morning. Membership: Forms for 2018 are now available at the club bar or to download on the club website www. fingallians.com Ballraíocht: Tá foirm 2018 ar fáil ón mbeár nó ón suíomh idirlíon www.fingallians.com History Project: Fingallians GAA are now in our 134th year. There

is a requirement to have our history researched, compiled, recorded and potentially published. The longer it is left undocumented the more of our story will be lost. We are appealing to our membership to see if anyone would be interested in undertaking the task. It would be a substantial undertaking involving considerable research and interviewing. It is a project that needs to be done properly and professionally. Interested parties can contact Liam Ó Culbáird on 086 3814422 Irish Group: Tosóidh ár ngrúpa comhrá arais ar an gCéadaoin 17ú Éanair ag a 9 sa chlub. Fáilte roimh gach duine. Saor agus spraoiúil. Tuilleadh eolas ó Liam ag 086 3814422. Dancing on Mondays: Every Monday from 8-11pm in the main hall, social dancing takes place (jive, waltz, quick-step, foxtrot and line-dancing). It is €10 per night and new members are welcome to join the fun.

Dublin men’s and ladies home league fixtures 2018 at Croke Park: Kildare – January 27; Donegal men and Cork ladies – February 10: Kerry men and ladies – March 3; Monaghan – March 25. Bloodbank: The next donation clinic will be on Thursday, January 18 from 2.30-5pm and 7-9pm in the club hall. Lotto: Numbers drawn were 1, 10, 13, 25 and 29. One winner: Michelle Markey. The jackpot this Tuesday will be €2,186.

GARDA WESTMANSTOWN

INTERMEDIATES had first outing of 2018 on Sunday morning in a challenge away to O’Dwyer’s of Balbriggan. A nice mixture of youth and experience enjoyed a good workout against the home team winning by a point 1-10 to 0-12. Thanks to O’Dwyers for hosting and the after-match hospitality. Training for inters

and juniors continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm in Westmanstown. Training for ladies begins on January 31 with a fitness assessment then Mondays and Wednesdays at 7.00pm and Saturday morning at 8am. U-14s and U-16s training on Wednesdays at 6.30pm. Fundraising table quiz on February 23 at Westmanstown. Congratulations to Heather Smith on her selection on the Dublin senior panel for last Sunday’s Dub Star game in DCU. The juvenile section is back up and running after the break with our U-12s fielding two teams at home to Naomh Barrog last Saturday morning and the nursery also resumed activity on the all-weather pitch. The club is already looking forward to the club Easter camp from April 3-6 from 10am to 2.30pm each day. Online registration will be available in the coming weeks so please put these dates in the diary

Membership fees for all members are now due and members can now pay online for the first time. Details are available on the club website and each club member will get an email shortly outlining the process. Great excitement around the club with our own Davy Cryan participating in Operation Transformation. To support Davy, we are lighting up our pitches for weekly Monday night walks at 8pm which are open to all club members plus friends and families. First walk is on Monday, January 22 and Davy will be along with his camera crew to lead the way. The club newsletter is now available online and each member will be receiving a copy by email. Thanks to Anne Egan for producing an excellent record of club activity. All at the club would like to extend condolences to Colm Maguire on the death of his father Charles. May He Rest in Peace.

18 January 2018 NORTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 39

GAZETTE

THE 2017 CHAMPIONSHIPS IN ANNUAL CHALLENGE MATCH BEST OF THE 2017 JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP

delight at DCU

further five goals still to come, with the likes of Fiona Claffey (Foxrock Cabinteely) and Jess Tobin (Cuala) staking a claim for the challenging Stars team in front of the county manager by drilling home. For the Dubs, the goal

of the game came via a superb volleyed finish from Danielle Lawless (St Sylvester’s), who let fly at a loose looking ball into the square to smash home Dublin’s fifth. The score, at this point, was becoming somewhat

academic, and while there will be doubts defensively as it rained second half goals, there’s clearly plenty of attacking talent for Bohan to ponder in the coming weeks, with several of his bigger-name forwards not even present at

DCU for the contest. Dublin’s winning margin, ultimately, was 5-8 to 4-8, with the Dub Stars pulling a goal back with the very last kick of the game. In short, breathless entertainment.

Navy team show Blue Star quality A FINAL-minute point from Aoife Keyes helped the Navy Team to

complete an impressive comeback against their Blue Team counterparts in the New Ireland Assurance Junior Dub Stars Challenge at the DCU Sportsgrounds on Sunday, 6-9 to 5-11. With 15 minutes remaining in a gripping contest, the Blues had developed a seemingly insurmountable nine-point advantage (5-10 to 3-7). However, Navy dug deep in the final-quarter, and thanks in no small part to strong scoring returns from Gillian McCluskey, Clara O’Sullivan and Rachel Staunton, Martin Mitchell’s charges ultimately came out on top. The Blues got off to a dream start with Plunkett’s Gaby Couch scoring in the first minute before Garristown’s Edel Quinn palmed in a goal soon after. Louise Fagan replied with a major for Navy to stem the tide but the Blue side would steadily advance their lead out to 3-6 to 2-1 with a flow or scores with Ciara McDunphy scoring a goal en route to a tally of 1-4. A six-point salvo, underpinned by Gillian McCluskey’s points, saw Navy make inroads into the difference but a stoppage time Anne Whelan goal did keep a 4-6 to 2-7 lead in the Blue team’s favour. Rachel Staunton’s goal breathed life back into the Navy hopes but a trio of superb scores by Couch, McDunphy and Sweeney, the Blues quickly re-asserted their authority. Navy, though, produced a stunning riposte with McCluskey and Clara O’Sullivan at the heart of a memorable late turnaround.

Colleen Barrett takes on Lynsey Davey, right. Picture: GAAPIcs.com

SKERRIES HARPS

CONGRATULATIONS to Aisling Spillane who lined out with the Dublin senior camogie team who recorded a draw with Limerick in the league. Well done also to Lyndsey Davey and Katie Norgrove who played with the Dublin Ladies in the senior Dubs Stars match. Skerries Harps annual membership fees are now due and are available for renewal online at www. skerriesharps.ie/clubmembership. Forms are also available in the clubhouse. All players (adult and juvenile) must have paid membership and injury fund fees paid up to date before commencement of the 2018 season. Adult games weekly meetings continue this Thursday, January 18 in the clubhouse - all those involved in adult games asked to attend as we resume normal club activities after the Christmas break. Juvenile games meetings recommence Thursday,

CLUB NOTICEBOARD January 25 at 9pm. Zingo Result: 2-1-6-7-4-35. We had no jackpot winner this week so the jackpot is now a fantastic €7,700/ Congratulations to joint dividend winners Anne Dillon and Andy Geraghty. The next draw will take place Sunday, January 21 in the clubhouse at 6pm. How do you win? You buy a ticket! You can play on line at skerriesharps.ie and follow the links. Envelopes only €2 or 3 for €5. Free raffle for spot prizes on night for all those present at Zingo draw. Our club Zingo allows us to accomplish so much as a Club, Thanks to all those who play every week.

ST BRIGID’S

FOUNDATION hurling and football coaching award: Friday, February 2 from 7-10pm and Saturday, February 3 from 11am-1pm in Russell Park. To book contact our GPO Barry Mullane at barry.mullane.gpo.dublin@ gaa.ie.

Interested in playing Camogie in 2018? We are looking for new and or returning players of all levels for both our senior 2 and senior 5 teams. If interested, please contact Aodh at 086 852 4527 or email naomhbridcamogie@gmail. com - Training starts soon! Thanks to those who organised our Shinty challenge games against Edinburgh University and Glasgow University on Saturday. Our club lotto will resumes this Thursday, January 18 in Russell Park with a jackpot of €1,000. Club membership for 2018 is now due and can be paid online via our club website or via the usual means. As always, March 31 is the deadline for payment. Gym membership is now also due for renewal. To avoid over crowding, please do not use the gym on Monday evenings from 8pm 9pm for the month of January and February. The gym will be in use by a county football team during this hour so

equipment may be limited. If you have any queries, do not hesitate to contact us. Our club nursery continues every Saturday from 9.30am to 11am for all four to seven-year-olds. New families and members are always welcome. Simply arrive down on Saturday morning and ask for Barry. We are also delighted to welcome SherryFitz as our Nursery sponsors. 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. Contact Tim O’Mahony for sponsorship opportunities 0868282016. Our AFL3/AFL5 Footballers are looking for selectors and coaches to get involved with their current managers. If you are interested or know anyone who may be suited to the roles, please contact Director of Football, Cormac Kelly on 0879573925.

ST FINIAN’S

ON BEHALF of the members and executive of St Finian’s GAA club, we express our deepest condolences to parents Emma-Kate and Aidan Morrissey and sisters Morgan-May and Chloe and their extended family on the passing of their daughter and sister Katie Rose Morrissey. St Finian’s also extends sincere sympathies to Brendan Gribbon on the passing of his mother Mary. Brendan and Margaret Gribbon have three children playing with different teams in the club (Ciara, Aoife and Liam) and Margaret plays with the Gaelic for Mothers and Others team. Membership subscriptions for 2018 are now due. Payments can be made online under club membership on the homepage of the club website: http://www. stfinians.com. Some minor changes have been made to membership categories and rates for 2018. The club has introduced

a family membership which would be the most cost effective for most families. Membership can be paid over three months online. After the initial amount is paid, the subsequent two monthly payments come out automatically. As a substantial element of the club’s outlay comes at the start of the year, all memberships should be paid as soon as possible. A huge thanks to all those who took part in the recent bag packing fundraisers in Supervalu Boroimhe and Dunnes Stores Pavilions which raised much needed funds for the club. A big thank you also to Eve O’Brien from the Dublin senior camogie team who presented the U-15 camogie with their championship winners medals last weekend. The girls celebrated the occasion by keeping up their fitness levels with trips to Jumpzone and Go Quest. A new keypad has been installed at the front entrance door of the clubhouse. If your fob fails

to operate, you should return it to the office to be reprogrammed, or contact the clubhouse officer Frank Egan at 087 9734883 Please support the National Club Draw, €10 per ticket. Tickets are available from team mentors, the club office or any member of the executive committee and all funds raised will be retained by the club. There are yoga classes taking place in the clubhouse activity room every Thursday evening. For further details, please contact Jacquie at 087 786 8363. The club lotto jackpot on January 12 was €1,600 and the numbers drawn were 1, 2, 23 and 25. There was no winner. Lucky dip winners of €40 were JK & M Ryan, Brendan Collins, Vincent Geraghty, Grace McGill. Next week’s jackpot is €1,700. The club bingo takes place this and every Friday upstairs in Peacocks at 8.30pm. The jackpot is €850. The coffee shop is open this and every Saturday.

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR NORTH DUBLIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 34-39

NOT IN THE CLOVER: St Mochta’s LSL title retention hopes stung by dramatic late Firhouse strike P37

JANUARY 18-24, 2018

STARS IN ALIGNMENT: DCU plays host to annual club and county duel P38-39

The existing facilities in Bremore Park are set to be developed further following a groundbreaking new deal

O’Dwyer’s game changer Balbriggan GAA club agree deal with Fingal County Council to set up new home in Bremore Park, giving huge opportunities to expand  KARL GRAHAM

sport@dublingazette.com

O’DWYERS GAA have struck a deal with Fingal County Council that will see the Balbriggan club move to a new facility at Bremore Regional Park, agreeing to enter into a long-term lease. The agreement will see O’Dwyers take up residency on the northern boundary of the 100 acre site with the club set to develop a new clubhouse, sports pitch, parking and training areas. A 3G all-weather pitch already exists which O’Dwyers share with Balbriggan FC. As part of the agreement, the Council will also purchase O’Dwyer’s current facility at Hamlet Lane to provide the community with new hous-

ing and better roads. Fittingly, the announcement comes in the year O’Dwyers are celebrating their centenary – with an official event planned for March 26 – and the club are understandably delighted with the announcement. “Nothing has started yet, everything is kind of agreed in principle but we are just beside ourselves at the thought of the state of the art facilities we are going to have, hopefully, within three years,” O’Dwyers PRO Linda Howley told the Dublin Gazette. “Even last year we saw our membership go up by 20% so what we have at the moment is just not going to do it. It doesn’t do us at the moment; we have to go outside and hire other facilities for all

our training so the idea that we are going to have everything we need over in Bremore Regional Park is just great.” Bremore is being developed by Fingal County Council to support and service the outdoor recreational needs of Balbriggan’s young and rapidly growing population. The Council also want to bring more tourism into Balbriggan, with Bremore Castle at the heart of this plan. “We are literally going to be in the middle of Bremore Regional Park and we are going to be close to the castle. We are going to be much closer to our all-weather pitch so it will be safer for our kids; they are not going to have to cross the road and walk down the lanes. It is just going to make life a lot easier for everybody,” Howley continued.

With Balbriggan typically more associated with soccer, Howley hopes that O’Dwyer’s new facilities will see more people from the area take up GAA. “I think the fact that our facilities are so old has maybe put people off in the past so once we get a comfortable clubhouse, good training facilities, a proper sports hall, bar facilities it will, hopefully, make GAA more attractive in Balbriggan. “For the last few years, we have had a parttime games promotional officer going into the schools, whereas from the middle of last year we have made her full-time so already we have seen a huge surge of children come into the club. It is up to us to make sure we have the facilities to keep them.”