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EXCLUSIVE – CONTROVERSIAL €500M SCHEME BACK ON THE AGENDA

‘Monster’ sewage plant plans to be lodged early next year  SYLVIA POWNALL

PLANS for a €500 million ‘monster’ sewage treatment plant with an outflow pipe at Baldoyle estuary will be lodged with An Bord

Pleanala in the first half of 2018. The project sparked a wave of outrage when it first surfaced three years ago and more than 13,000 Fingal residents objected to the proposal.

Continued on Page 6

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 26 October 2017

LUSK | COMMUNITY MEETING AS FEARS GROW FOR HUB’S FUTURE

FASTNews

 SYLVIA POWNALL

Lin Kee takes away a top award for best spice bag

‘If they take our post office, what’s left?’

A PUBLIC meeting will be held in Lusk tonight (Thursday) amid mounting concerns over the future of rural post offices in Fingal.

Up to 300 post offices nationwide are under threat of closure as the Government presses ahead with plans to introduce ‘stand-alone’ contracts for each An Post outlet.

Fianna Fail Senator Lorraine Clifford-Lee has called the meeting in Lusk – one of the post offices believed to be in the firing line along with Rush – in Murray’s pub at 8pm.

She and her party col-

The post office in Lusk is feared to be in the firing line of 300 planned rural closures

league, Cllr Brian Dennehy, have called on those who want to “protect the future of the post office network in north county Dublin” to attend.

Senator Clifford-Lee said: “This is a chance for people to raise their concerns, speak about

how they see their local post office changing, and impress their demand for their post office to be protected.

“In recent weeks, we have heard that the Government are considering closing up to 300 post offices, some of which could

be in Fingal. “ T h e G ove r n m e n t talks about increasing the number of services on offer in our post offices, but they fail to identify which services that want to be provided in them.

“Fianna Fail is leading the charge for this government to up its game, invest in the post office net-work, and secure its future in our area.”

Two weeks ago, postmasters voted overwhelmingly to reject An

Post’s proposal. Irish Postmasters Union spokesperson Tony Wall said: “The proposed new contract is for each post office to operate on a stand-alone commercial basis and places no value on post offices’ social function.”

Lusk postmistress Linda Neary, who took part in a national protest on the issue, warned that the loss of the post office would tear the heart out of the community.

She said: “I know there have to be cuts to make the service viable, but you still have to serve the community. They have to look at the bigger picture.

“There’s a social aspect to the post office. We have nothing in Lusk – this is the hub of the community here. We have nothing else, so if they take the post office away, what have we got left?”

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

SWORDS takeaway Lin Kee has won a national award for the best spice bag.

The restaurant was shortlisted along with Sunflower Chinese Takeaway in Templeogue, LY Garden in Millbrook Lawns, Foo Lok in Blanchardstown and Saba To Go on Rathgar Road.

But delivery service customers voted for Lin Kee in their droves in the Just Eat national takeaway awards. Firehouse Pizza in Ballymun nabbed the best pizza award. A Mexican takeaway in Donegal – Burrito Loco – was the overall winner.

The 20 categories included Best Chinese, Best Salad, Best Mexican and Best Indian, and customers voted for their own favourite Irish takeaway restaurant, and their favourite takeaway dish.

Meet community’s First Responders at SuperValu SWORDS Community First Responders will be at SuperValu Boroimhe from 9am to 6pm on Saturday, October 28, to demonstrate CPR and raffle a hamper.

The event is being held to raise funds for the purchase of the town’s first public AED/defibrillator.

A spokesperson for Swords CFR said: “We aim to have our defibrillator in a housed coded unit in Swords available to all members of the public, should a person go into cardiac arrest.”

The group is also seeking volunteers resident in Swords (aged 18 and over with full clean driver’s licence) to give 12 hours a week when trained and vetted and to be on call in the Swords area. Contact swordscfr@gmail.com for more details.

Historic bell gets an appealing home LOCALS were happy to chime in with praise as they welcomed the return of the Balbriggan bell to the library, following an extensive period of being away from the facility during refurbishment works. Members of the Balbriggan and District Historical Society and Paul Reid (third-left), chief executive, Fingal County Council (above) joined Alice Davies and Mayor Mary McCamley (right) in welcoming the bell and clock mechanism back to the library, where they are now on permanent display for all to enjoy.

26 October 2017 NORTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

Have-a-go blind dater Sean Carey; left: with Aaron Brazil, host Al Porter, and Robbie Slater

Balbriggan bachelor’s lorra fun at Blind Date  SYLVIA POWNALL DJ SEAN Carey says he has “no regrets” about going on TV3’s Blind Date – and urges anyone who is up for a laugh to put their name forward for it.

The 19-year-old from Balbriggan was chosen by gym bunny Louise Whyte, also 19 and from Newbridge, Co Kildare, as her love match on last Sunday’s show.

The pair enjoyed a trip to Fota Wildlife Park and an overnight stay on their date – but Sean is keeping tight-lipped about the finer details

ahead of spilling the beans to host Al Porter on Sunday.

Sean, who hosts LMFM’s Radio Romance, told The Gazette: “We had a private tour of the place and saw all the animals, including giraffes and rhinos. We actually had a great day.

“I just thought, ‘Why not put my name forward for the show?’. I didn’t want to be looking back in a few years saying I was too scared to take a risk.

“I don’t regret it one bit. I say just go for it! If you’re up for a laugh then life’s too short to be waiting for these things to happen.”

Sean, a former pupil of Balbriggan Community College, says he’s well-known locally for “being a bit mad” so people didn’t bat an eyelid when they saw him on the telly.

And he says the Tweets remarking on his likeness to Nathan Carter came as no surprise. “I do get that a fair bit,” he said. “I don’t know how to react, to be honest, but it could be worse!”

Sean and Louise give their verdict on the date on Sunday’s Blind Date at 9pm on TV3.

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 26 October 2017

FASTNews

Have your say on council’s proposed cycleway link

SUBMISSIONS and observations from the public are being invited by Fingal County Council (FCC) as it moves ahead with plans for a cycleway from Sutton to Malahide.

The project forms part of a broader plan to provide a greenway route along the coast from Balbriggan to Sutton linking Skerries, Donabate, Malahide, Broadmeadows, Malahide, Portmarnock and Baldoyle.

The council last week revealed that €10 million in capital had been

set aside for the longawaited piece of infrastructure.

FCC and the National Transport Authority are now preparing a scheme for the Sutton to Malahide cycleway which will continue northwards from the existing Sutton to Sandycove cycle lane via Sutton Cross through Baldoyle and Portmarnock to Malahide.

The deadline for the submission is October 31 and these can be made online at: https://consult. fingal.ie/en/browse

Lots of fun promised at a D15 Irish language day

AN IRISH language day takes place at Blanchardstown Library on Saturday, November 4.

Events include a reading by author Sadhbh Devlin from her debut picture book, Bi ag Spraoi Liom, and afterwards chat about inventions and creativity with the children (11.30am).

Out and About

Submissions and observations can also be made in writing to Paul Keane, Executive Engineer, Planning and Strategic Infrastructure Department, Fingal County Council, County Hall, Swords, County Dublin.

Plans for the route are due to be submitted to An Bord Pleanala in 2018.

FCC intends to submit an application for planning permission for the Donabate to Malahide cycleway by the end of the month.

Blanchardstown Pop-Up Gaeltacht will be open from 1pm. Drop in for tea and coffee, chat, storytelling and more. Blanchardstown Library’s Ciorcal Comhra will be there, and they’d love to meet you!

IFTA-nominated actor and accomplished author Diarmuid De Faoite will facilitate two story-telling sessions – the first (1-2pm) aimed at older children and teenagers, and the second (3-4pm) aimed at adults.

Members of the Naomh Mearnog Squad Having fun during the energetic warm-up

and Family. Pictures: GAApics.com

A holy original look for St Peregrines GAA Club G4M&O Squad, Ted

Blitz Day soars to new heights F

INGAL clubs Naomh Mearnog and St Sylvester’s joined forces again last week to host another memorable and successful event for the Ladies Gaelic Football Association – the Lidl national Gaelic4Mothers&Others Blitz Day. Over 2,000 women, 102 teams and 17 pitches – just some of the staggering numbers from an event that encapsulates all that is good about Ladies Football.

It’s fast become one of the best days on the LGFA calendar – and continues to go from strength to strength. Participants ranged from 21 to nearly 60 years of age and a hen party helped to add a real splash of colour!

26 October 2017 NORTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

FASTNews

Now’s the chance to help guide the development of community services and facilities in Baldoyle

Ballymun Kickhams members

Ballymun Kickhams members

FINGAL County Council (FCC) is encouraging members of the public to have their say on community services and facilities in Baldoyle.

The local authority’s community development office is aiming to establish and support local groups and activities across Fingal – and it’s currently focusing on the coastal town of Baldoyle.

A council spokesperson said: “We would like to hear the views of residents and community groups in Baldoyle to assist us in establishing needs in the area in terms of community and social activities, leisure and sporting facilities.

“We are also interested in their views on the potential development of

ITB president praises major investment

St Sylvesters Squad

THE president of the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown (ITB), Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan, has welcomed news

the Menolly Marketing Suite Building at Red Arches as a community facility.”

A public consultation meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 1 at Baldoyle Community Hall at 8.15pm to discuss community facilities in the area.

To give your views, go along to the meeting or complete the online survey (before November 16) at https:// consult.fingal.ie/en/surveys.

A tract of land at Stapolin has been earmarked as a strategic development zone and will be used for a large-scale housing development and village centre.

For further information, contact the council’s research team at 01 857 3111, or email sinead@begley.ie.

of a multi-million euro expansion at the campus.

ITB is one of 11 third level facilities in line for capital investment – totalling €200 million – which will deliver new state-of-theart facilities.

Dr O’Callaghan said: “This is a highly-sig-

nificant and welcome development that follows from a comprehensive and rigorous prioritisation process.

The investment will provide advanced facilities to support the ongoing expansion of higher education opportunities.”

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 26 October 2017

EXCLUSIVE | 50-ACRE SEWAGE FACILITY

Just €4 could help ‘Butterfly Skin’ sufferers LITTLE Maria Maciukas (2) from Waterville, Blanchardstown, who has a severe form of the ‘Butterfly Skin’ disease EB (epidermolysis bullosa), is pictured with big brother Mark, dad Greg Maciukas, and mum Gunita Spirge.

The family are asking people to help EB patients by picking up a

Debra Ireland Butterfly Tattoo at any Applegreen outlet and texting BUTTERFLY to 50300 to make a €4 donation during EB awareness week, which is currently running until October 29.

Maria has a severe form of the disease – which affects just 300 people in Ierland – and has to be

bandaged almost from head to toe to protect her from everyday life.

Mum Gunita, who is originally from Latvia, says: “Maria brings a lot of love and laughter to our home, but she is in constant pain – her feet and arms are always blistered, and she needs pain relief three times a day.”

‘Monster’plant proposed for Fingal – again Continued from Page 1

If it gets the go-ahead, the giant facility will be built on a 50-acre site at Clonshaugh near Dublin Airport with an outflow pipe located near Ireland’s Eye in what is a Special Area of Conservation.

Philip Swan, spokesperson for Portmarnock Drainage Awareness, told The Gazette: “We can’t really do anything until we see what is being lodged with An Bord Pleanala.

“But there was huge opposition when this first surfaced, and hopefully the board will take into account the 13,000-plus objections we plan on lodging again.”

Irish Water said the GDD was a key part of its investment in new infrastructure to meet demand in the greater Dublin area.

Its plans provide for a treatment plant and “sludge hub centre” at Clonshaugh, an underground orbital sewer from Blanchardstown to Clonshaugh, an outfall pipe “discharging the water to the Irish Sea”, and a biosolids storage facility at Newtown.

Deputy Darragh

O’Brien (FF) warned that the project “hasn’t gone away” and lamented the fact that Fingal councillors voted down a proposal to remove the project from the County Development Plan by a narrow majority.

Calling for a localised approach rather than one “monster” plant, he warned: “This is still a threat to our area. This plant would import waste

east coast. He added: “The decision on the location of the outflow pipe was made based on initial inconclusive reports.

“I can only assume more in-depth reports have been carried out since 2013 and they don’t ignore the potential catastrophic effects this plant could have on Pormarnock beach and the two surrounding Special Areas

Map showing the proposed route and scale of works

from seven authorities.

“The planned centre is four times the size of Croke Park, with an outflow pipe pumping thousands of litres of sewage per minute (treated to the minimum secondary level standards) located off Portmarnock.”

Philip Swan also argued against taking waste from neighbouring counties and said in the case of malfunction this could close beaches right along the

of Conservation that are protected under an EU directive.”

Once the plans are lodged, this will be followed by a statutory period of public consultation.

The project will start in 2021 at the earliest and construction will take three years.

Further details will be announced in early November on www.greaterdublindrainage.ie.

Dublin Bus diversions in place for Festival of Fire DUBLIN BUS has announced a number of route diversions during the Fingal Festival of Fire which takes place next Tuesday, October 31, from 6-8pm.

Due to road closures, the 33A will take the normal route as far as the estuary roundabout and divert onto the bypass, right at the Malahide roundabout and left at the garda station to resume its normal route.

The 33B towards Swords will follow the same route, and towards

Portrane will divert at Pinnock Hill roundabout on to the R132 bypass to the estuary roundabout.

The 41B to city centre will turn left onto Watery Lane and bypass the town via Balheary Road, Castlegrange Road to the bypass and Malahide roundabout, following the same route in reverse towards Rolestown.

There will be similar diversions in place for the 41C and 43 routes.

Find full details at dublinbus.ie, or via Twitter @dublinbusnews.

26 October 2017 NORTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 26 October 2017

COURTS | BENCHES HEAR DETAILS OF MENTAL DISTRESS, PHYSICAL INJURY IN CASES

Student paid €1,040 to Ongar man to rent a non-existent room

A MAN who defrauded a foreign student after she was duped into renting a non-existent room has been warned by a judge that he faces jail.

Ashley Lucas (36), of Hayworth Rise, Ongar pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to one count of money laun-

dering, which involved setting up a bank account at AIB Drogheda on March 24, 2015.

The court heard that the case came to light after a Swiss student, Marlene Lienau, arrived in Ireland to pursue her studies, having rented a room from someone on

Facebook.

Ms Lienau transferred €1,040 to a bank account for the purposes of renting the room in Booterstown, but when she arrived in Dublin on September 3, 2015, she found it didn’t exist.

The bank account was linked to a co-accused,

who was arrested. She admitted opening the account using her passport and a false utility bill in her name and she led gardai to Lucas.

Lucas, a married father-of-one, told gardai that he did not know Ms Lienau and had been asked to set up an account by a Nigerian man in the UK, who told him everything was above board.

In a victim impact statement, Ms Lienau said she suffered a total economic loss of €1,346 as she had to pay for short-term accommodation when she arrived and found she had no room.

Left scared She said she had been left scared in case she couldn’t find somewhere to stay, and the experience had changed her opinion of Ireland.

The court heard that Lucas, who has lived in Ireland for 10 years and works for Noel Recruitment, had no previous

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

‘In a victim impact statement, Ms Lienau said she suffered a total economic loss of €1,346, and the experience had changed her opinion of Ireland’ --------------------------

convictions and has adhered to his bail conditions over the last year.

Lucas wrote a letter to the court apologising for what he described as a “horrible mistake that he cannot take back” and said he had wanted the money in order to finance his studies in information technology.

Judge Karen O’Connor directed a probation report to be presented to court on December 15 – and advised Lucas she would impose a custodial sentence.

Man accused of harassing RTE presenter

A 40-YEAR-OLD man has been charged with harassing RTE star Sharon Ni Bheolain (below) and possession of child pornography.

Conor O’Hora (40), with an address at Heather Walk, Portmarnock, was last week in court accused of harassing the newsreader over several months three years ago.

He is also facing two counts of having child pornography “images and text conversations” on dates between October 2013 and February 2014.

Mr O’Hora has not indicated how he will plead and his case was adjourned for the preparation of a book of evidence.

Judge Michael Walsh granted him bail, subject to conditions, after hearing there were no garda objections. A detective told the court he arrested the accused by arrangement at Infirmary Road near the Criminal Courts of Justice and he made no reply to the charges. The case was adjourned to December 1.

Holiday centre pays out €25k for table injury ROGANSTOWN Holiday Village near Swords has paid a €25,000 civil court settlement to the family of a child who broke her arm when a table fell on her.

Richard McNulty told Mr Justice Raymond Groarke he had been relieved to hear his twoyear-old daughter Ava cry after a console table toppled on her.

The dad-of-three, who now lives in Hertfordshire with his family, said at first he thought his youngest child had been killed in the accident in April, 2012.

The McNultys were enjoying a three-generation family get-together at Roganstown Holiday Village, just outside Swords, when the accident happened.

Mr McNulty said he was upstairs in a bedroom with Ava when she

walked over to a console table and tried to open a drawer, which brought the table down on top of her.

“I thought she was dead. I was so relieved when I heard her cry,” Mr McNulty told Circuit Court president Mr Justice Raymond Groarke in the civil court.

Ava’s €38,000 damages claim against Roganstown (Holiday Village) Management Limited was based on negligence due to the console table being an unstable piece of furniture in a bedroom scenario.

Judge Groarke approved a settlement offer of €25,000 by Roganstown, with a registered address at Beacon South Quarter in Sandyford, to Ava and said that as a matter of common sense the inci-dent was “entirely predictable”.

26 October 2017 NORTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

PEOPLE | D15 WOMAN AT HEART OF AWARENESS AD AT CINEMAS

CF can’t stop Edelle helping  SYLVIA POWNALL GROWING up in Castleknock, 41-yearold Edelle Collins enjoyed a “normal childhood” despite being diagnosed via a sweat test at birth with cystic fibrosis.

But her condition worsened in her late teens and in 2004 she had to give up her job as a marketing manager with Coca Cola. She hasn’t worked since.

Edelle, whose breathing features on a powerful 60-second cinema ad for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, told The Gazette: “It’s genetic, you are born with it. Once I got to adulthood, I found CF was beginning to take an effect on me.

“I had to stop working because I got seriously ill. I did miss it at first, but I realised fairly quickly there was no physical way I could work because I couldn’t stay on top of my therapies.”

Edelle – who faces up to three hours

of therapies, nebulisers and medication daily to keep her lungs functioning – didn’t hesitate when she was asked by CF Ireland if they could record her for their new ad now airing at cinemas.

She said: “It will provoke an emotional response – that’s what you need to get the message out there. My own family thought it was very powerful; they got a bit upset, because it’s me that’s in it.”

The ‘Fight to Breathe’ ad opens with a message telling viewers that the average person takes 16 breaths a minute and a person with CF has to fight for every one of them. It then invites the audience to take each breath with Edelle as the sound of her rasping breathing, punctuated by coughing, fills the screen.

Edelle said: “I’m on oxygen 24 hours a day, hooked up to a big machine in the house, and I have to take a heavy backpack with me if I go out.”

WITH more than 1,200 people living with CF here, Ireland has the highest prevalence and some of the most severe types of CF in the world. The average death age here is 27. Text Fight CF to 50300 to donate €4 to Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, or donate online at www.cfireland.ie. The ad is also free to view on the CF Ireland website.

Edelle says this severely restricts her and she cannot travel to visit friends overnight because of all the equipment – but she hasn’t given up on her dream of travelling the world.

Edelle Collins: Helping others with CF

HOMES | WINTER COMFORT

Get cosy with EZ furnishings WITH the clocks going back this weekend and darker evenings around the corner, it’s the best time to cuddle up with a cosy new armchair, invest in a high-quality mattress, or add a soft, autumnal glow to your home with stunning gold candle holders and lanterns.

Thankfully, EZ Living Furniture’s range gives customers the opportunity to spruce up their homes for a fraction of the cost, without compromising on quality.

The knowledgeable and experienced staff at EZ Living Furniture are always on hand to help customers with queries and offer advice and styling tips.

Customers are advised to come prepared with accurate measurements of their rooms for new

furniture, and colour swatches to help them make the right purchase.

A full home delivery and assembly service is also available.

EZ Living Furniture’s well-known sales have made them a popular staple for everyone looking to put a truly personal touch on their homes, with the outlets at Blanchardstown Retail Park, Airside Retail Park and Fonthill Retail Park reporting a brisk trade as the winter nights begin to draw in.

For further details of its comprehensive ranges, see the site at www.ezlivingfurniture.ie.

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 26 October 2017

Out and About

A magical night for St Brigid’s S

T Brigid’s GAA Club ran a gala night in the Hogan Suite in Croke Park last week which was attended by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, All-Ireland winning Dublin GAA manager Jim Gavin and many more. It was a great night and well attended by members and friends of St Brigid’s. Damien O’Reilly was MC on the night and the club secretary Mary O’Connor was presented with the Special Recognition Award for all the fantastic work she does for the club.

CHARITY | HOSPITAL, HOSPICE FUNDRAISER IN MEMORY OF LATE BLANCH MAN’S BRAVE BATTLE

‘Pay it forward’ to honour Lee  SYLVIA POWNALL

THE family of a Blanchardstown man who died of cancer at the age of 26 are asking people to help them ‘pay it forward’ by supporting a charity fundraiser in his name.

Lee Kelly (left) from Whitestown was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year and despite bravely battling the disease for 12 months, he passed away in May. Cinema-lover Lee was hugely popular and his positive attitude proved an

inspiration for countless others fighting cancer.

Now, his sisters Claire and Amy have organised a night of celebration to raise funds for Beaumont Hospital and St Francis Hospice, where Lee was cared for in his final days.

Claire told The Gazette: “Lee and his positive attitude very much inspired this event. He was a keen believer in ‘paying it forward’, so that’s what we want to do on his behalf.

“Throughout his treatments, the doctors and nurses at Beaumont Hos-

pital treated Lee with the utmost skill and care, supporting him and all the family.

“It breaks my heart to say that in May, Lee was admitted to St Francis Hospice where he passed away, having received an unbelievable amount of care from the staff who work there.”

Lee was diagnosed with a malignant tumour to the front lobe of his brain after he awoke screaming in pain from a severe headache.

He courageously shared his story on the Humans of Blanchardstown

Facebook page last September, and thanked readers for their support.

He said: “I am not my cancer. I want people to know that I am strong and I am ok. I keep your wonderful cards and photos on my wall as inspiration to beat this thing.”

The fundraiser takes place in Nancy Hand’s bar (Parkgate Street) this Friday, October 27, at 7pm. Tickets cost €10 and include live music, a buffet, raffles and games.

For details, visit Lee’s Charity Halloween Ball on Facebook

26 October 2017 NORTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 October 2017

MOTORING P24

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

TRAVEL P26



GAZETTE

MUSIC P20

Shelter’s long-term dogs looking for loving homes DOGS TRUST has revealed their longterm dogs, #TheUnderDogs, in a bid to find them homes.

The poignant campaign focuses on some of the adorable residents at Dogs Trust who, through no fault of their own, just can’t seem to find a home.

Some of the unfortunate pooches have been overlooked thousands of times since being rescued.

All of “The Underdogs” highlighted in the campaign have been at Dogs Trust for at least six months and unfortunately, some have been there much longer.

The longest resident Buddy has been overlooked 34,076 times since being rescued.

There are a number of reasons why some dogs might get overlooked.

Sometimes, if a dog has had a particularly tough start in life, he might become a little nervous or frightened

and need additional care and attention in order to adjust to home life.

Other times, a dog might be unfairly judged by his breed but may be the softest soul underneath his appearance. Believe it or not, sometimes black dogs can be overlooked because they do not stand out as much as a lighter coloured dog.

As a part of their moving campaign, Dogs Trust has also launched an emotive video of one of their longest residents Kyia, who arrived in the centre back in 2013.

The video highlights how these adorable dogs at the centre are needlessly overlooked and sometimes just need some extra special care and attention, as well as some additional time with their potential new owners before they go home, in order to adapt to family life.

All the staff at Dogs Trust truly love and care for every dog at the centre

but would love for them to go to their forever home.

The team are desperately trying to find homes for these beautiful characters and know that there is a special someone waiting out there for each and every one of them!

Follow the conversation on Twitter using the hashtag #TheUnderdogs.

To find out more about how you can support this campaign or adopt one of “The UnderD o g s ” log onto w w w . dogstrust. ie/TheUnderDogs

26 October 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 October 2017

PEOPLE | NEW START-UP AIMS TO HELP FIND A PLACE TO LIVE, AND SUPPORT SENIOR CITIZENS AT THE SAME TIME

According to TheHomeshare, people are carefully screened and matched to share with an older citizen in their home for cheaper rent – in return, they commit to spend time in support and companionship

Older people could be a key way to help housing crisis  MARK O’BRIEN WITH no sign of the housing crisis letting up across Dublin, a new start-up has come up with an innovative way of providing people with cheap accommodation while allowing older people to stay living

independently for longer.

The Homeshare matches two people to live together for mutual benefit. An older householder offers a room in their home to a younger person in exchange for 10 hours per week in support and companionship.

The concept has gained popularity in the UK in recent years where there are now 24 such services operating. The business is the brainchild of Lucie Cunningham, who previously worked in the homecare sector for 10 years before launching

The Homeshare in July.

She said: “I could see first-hand that there was a huge gap there for older people and the support that they receive from the HSE to what they actually need.

“They might have a carer calling twice a day

for an hour each day, and then obviously there’s 22 hours a day that they’re on their own.”

The service costs €195 each to the householder and the home sharer, with the home sharer required to give 10 hours of support based on the needs of the older person.

This can range from watching football or the soaps together, to doing the shopping, or making sure the older person gets safely up the stairs to bed at night, and so on.

All potential sharers must pass a rigorous screening process before they can be matched with a householder.

This includes phone and face to face interviews, a minimum of three references, and garda vetting.

Once this process is completed, the sharer will be introduced to householders, with no one matched until both parties are happy.

“We’ve been matching hundreds and hundreds of carers with hundreds and hundreds of clients over the past 10 years so we’d like to think that we’ve a fairly good base of what

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

‘We’re there for as much or as little support as the two people want’ --------------------------

Lucie Cunningham, TheHomeshare.ie

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

does and what doesn’t work,” Lucie says of the process.

The sharers are also given free training in the safeguarding of older people.

“They [the homesharers] don’t have to have any formal training – it’s all down to personality,” says Lucie. Having said that, we do have student nurses, nutrition students and things like that but what we do is we provide training in safeguarding vulnerable adults because for some people they may not have had much dealings with older people.”

Both parties are then asked to sign up to a contract for at least nine months, with The Homeshare offering continuous support as required.

Lucie says: “Even if things are running smoothly, we still call to the house and ring. We’re there for as much or as little support as the two people want.”

With around 10 matches so far, and many more in the pipeline, Lucie feels that The Homeshare has started on a positive note and thinks the concept will grow in popularity.

“A lot of people are receiving a homecare package from the HSE and that’s suiting some of their needs, but there’s something missing, and I believe that The Homeshare is filling that void.”

Further information about The Homeshare can be found at thehomeshare.ie.

26 October 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 October 2017

Out and About

Caoimhe Egan of Tivoli Guides, Dun Laoghaire, pictured after receiving her National Guide Award at Croke Park

River Valley Swords Guides receive their awards. Pictures: ROBBIE REYNOLDS

Blazing a trail in the Girl Guides world Rathfarnham Guide Ellen Reid looks proud as punch after receiving her National Guide Award at Croke Park

Ballyroan Irish Girl Guides show off their hard-earned awards

D

UBLIN Girl Guides were well represented at the Trail Blazer National Guide Awards at Croke Park last week. More than 100 Guides, aged 14-15, travelled from all corners of the country to receive the award and, with their families, celebrated reaching the pinnacle of Guiding. Each girl received a Trail Blazer gold pin and a National Guide Award certificate from Irish Girl Guides (IGG) President Maureen Murphy and IGG Chief Commissioner Helen Concannon.

The award is made in recognition of the successful completion of a series of challenges, including teamwork activities, outdoor survival skills, community service, global awareness and working with younger IGG members to help them develop confidence, independence and essential life skills.

Delighted Lucan Irish Girl Guides pose with their National Guide Awards

26 October 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

GAZETTE

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 October 2017

DUBLINLIFE

€ 5 0 0 N WI

COMPETITION

A VOUCHER WORTH

THIS autumn head to Marks & Spencer for a culinary adventure like no other as they welcome a selection of new products and flavours to its popular Taste range as well as new game, artisan meats and pies being introduced.

As well as building on existing popular dishes, M&S celebrates the introduction of bold, authentic flavours inspired by worldwide exotic destinations. Thailand continues to be a big focus, with the addition of delicious main meals, tasty sides and savory snacks inspired from Japan including Taste Chicken Penang Curry with Jasmine Rice and Yellow Thai Chicken Noodles .

Sri Lankan cuisine is new to the Taste range this autumn, including

Taste for Adventure at Marks & Spencer some must-try dishes with the addition of the King Prawn Curry.

Renowned for its rich heritage in the spice trade, Sri Lankan curries incorporate Indian spices like coriander, turmeric and coriander seeds, with more traditional Asian influences such as coconut milk and chilli.

One of the hero products of the new range is the Signature Sourdough, made fresh by local Dublin supplier Aryzta. The new sourdough is made using live sourdough culture, blended with white, wholemeal and dark rye flour. Resulting in a complex, full bodied delicious loaf that is ideal for pairing with your favourite brunch accompaniments. For

the ultimate Sourdough experience, look to their new San Francisco Style Sourdough which is actually brought over from San Fran itself and made with a 26-year-old live culture. This fantastic rich blend of flavours tastes divine when toasted for breakfast and paired with poached eggs and dried chilli flakes.

Flavours If you haven’t tried the latest selection of Deep & Loaded Pizzas well then, you’re missing out!

Unlike other pizzas, this new range is inspired by the infamous pizzas of Detroit and have a deep but light square base, which is then smoth-

ered in house dressing and finished with American-inspired ingredients.

Favourites from the range include The Whole Hog, with smoky sausage, spicy pulled pork & BBQ’s burnt ends as well as the Meatball Marinara, topped with mini meatballs and sautéed onions. Each of the six pizzas comes with its own sauce, that has been perfectly paired to each flavour. Simply drizzle over when hot and fresh out of the oven!

Autumn wouldn’t be autumn without Halloween. At M&S this Halloween, it is all about the treats and no tricks! Like many of us, Percy loves dressing up for Halloween and this season Percy has

Here’s how to ENTER: TO celebrate the launch of the new Autumn Ranges at Marks & Spencer and for your chance to stock up on all the autumn favourites with a M&S voucher worth €500, simply email competitions@dublingazette.com – making sure to put M&S in the subject line,

taken inspiration from the popular Halloween staple – the pumpkin.

Percy Pumpkins are a spooky selection of soft gums made with real fruit juices. The limited-edition bags each contain a mixture of pink, green and orange Percys. Percy fans will notice that he also has a ghoulish grin for the occasion. It’s not just Percy who enjoys dressing up for Halloween, Colin the Caterpillar has also had a ghoulish makeover. Count Colin the Caterpillar cake is a delicious chocolatey cake with a spooky twist. You can also enjoy mini Count Colin the Caterpillars, miniatures of the chocolatey favourite that are perfect for your Halloween get-together.

and your name and contact details in the body of the email.

The closing date for entries is 5pm on Friday, November 3.

The best of luck folks, and get down to Marks & Spencer this autumn for a culinary adventure like no other as they welcome a selection of new products and flavours to their popular Taste range.

26 October 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

GAZETTE

HEALTH | SUPPORT

Learn all about the dangers of blood clots

 MARK O’BRIEN

A NEW group is trying to raise awareness of the dangers of blood clots, with approximately 4,000 people dying each year in Ireland because of them.

Blood clots in the legs or in the lungs are collectively known as venous thromboembolism (VTE) – a condition that includes deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

DVT happens when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg or pelvis. If all or part of the DVT breaks off and the blood clot m ove s t o block a vessel in the lung, this is referred to as a pulmonary embolism (PE).

However, it’s been estimated that 1,900 of these deaths are preventable, and now Thrombosis Ireland wants to raise awareness about the condition and help save lives.

Ann-Marie O’Neill (above) founded Thrombosis Ireland last year as she felt there was a lack of information available here about it.

Having suffered medical difficulties related to blood clots, Ann-Marie said she was disappoint-

ed with the lack of information provided to her on these occasions.

She said: “Nobody sat down and explained exactly what was happening, that it may happen again or how I could protect myself.”

She decided to start Thrombosis Ireland as a way of offering support to people who had gone through similar experiences to hers.

“I searched and found English and American anti-coagulation websites and they were helpful, but they didn’t relate to the Irish health system. So, I decided to look at setting up our own Irish thrombosis support and advocacy group.”

She said that she hopes that the group will be able to spread the message about the steps to reduce the risks of thrombosis.

“I want everyone to know that blood clots can affect anyone, male or female, young or old, fit and healthy, and they can be fatal if we don’t know what to look out for. A little knowledge can save your life!

To learn more about DVT and preventative measures, see thrombocoach.com.

26 October 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

DUBLINLIFE

FEATURES

GAZETTE

GAZETTE

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 October 2017

N O S ’ T A H W

E D I U G S T N E V E

Dublin City Marathon

with JAMES HENDICOTT

Whether you’re running, or simply choosing a spot to watch the nifty front-runners and slogging distance-joggers pass by, the Dublin Marathon is quite the spectacle. The hardcore feat takes place on Sunday, October 29.

Bram Stoker Festival

Taking over huge chunks of the city, this festival tribute to the Clontarf man who wrote Dracula takes in everything from a live music trail to a party in St Patrick’s Park, running from October 27 to 30, including...

s c u i m n i t g a n u H s a t e l e m n i a m o F r f Above: John Sheahan, Floriane Blancke, Rob Calder, Eimear O’Grady and Chris Herzberger – just some of the band members responsible for (right) Declan O’Rourke’s striking album

The Macnas Parade

MUSIC: DECLAN O’ROURKE CRAFTS A THING OF BEAUTY FROM OUR DARKEST DAYS

 JAMES HENDICOTT

SAT somewhere in the realm where storytelling and music meet, Dubliner Declan O’Rourke has spent more than a decade researching his latest offering. It may just be his magnum opus.

Declan O’Rourke is not your typical modern-day musician. Having powered onto the Irish music scene in 2004 with debut, Since Kyabram, he became a radioplay mainstay with hit single, Galileo (Someone Like You).

After touring with Bob Dylan and Snow Patrol, though, O’Rourke was not to be lured by the temptation to repeat the same trick.

Instead, he’s stood a million miles from pop tropes, writing on the workhouses his grandfather worked in, or ruminating on arranged marriages.

At times, he’s had the RTE Concert Orchestra on board; at others, his music has been beautifully toneddown and delicate.

This latest release, Chronicles of the Great Irish Famine, is the result of 16 years of research into the untold stories of the 1840s – a passion product that’s been a rumbling constant

in the background of O’Rourke’s entire career so far.

“It just took that long to research,” O’Rourke tells The Gazette of the chunk of his life dedicated to this album. “It needed that. Regular songs come and go, but when you’re dealing with something where the material is based on information that you have to find, there are mountains and mountains to wade through.

“What I was looking for was personal stories. There’s a lot of legislative information and political background about the Famine, but the personal accounts are few and far between – most of Ireland’s poor were illiterate at the time.

“Then there was the phenomenon of not talking about it afterwards.

Stories that were passed down just kind of died out.”

So, O’Rourke dug in, searching out tales from every corner. “If you keep going through books, you eventually find voices and stories,” he says.

“Then it’s about finding the best ones to get an overview of things, and to paint different sides of what happened. Part of it was also about making sure I didn’t miss out any really important bits.

“I’m not an avid reader, so it was laborious. The crafting of the songs themselves wasn’t so hard, but because of the academic nature, you’re second guessing yourself to make sure you’ve got it right.

“It gave me a chance to explore the kind of music I was raised on, and that I loved from a very early age. It was all trad and folk songs for me back then, and nearly all of that is based on songs that have been around forever. I’m a writer, so it was a chance to connect with that and still write.”

Astonishing The depth of exploration that went into Chronicles of the Great Famine meant O’Rourke uncovered ample stories that are far from widely known, and plenty that are genuinely astonishing.

The story of Curry Shaw, for example, is a gem that stands out on the album.

The 23-year-old fled his ship, Hannah, with two crewmates aboard the only lifeboat after the ship struck an iceberg in a storm off Canada in 1849.

His actions left at least 48 Irish

immigrants to die in the water or on the ice.

Shaw also tried to force the ship’s hatch closed with most of those on board below deck, to prevent the passengers from following him.

“One of my best friends, a guy that I lived with in Australia for years, told that story to me,” O’Rourke explains.

“His wife is a relative of someone who was on that ship, and the story only emerged around 2005.

“I mean, it was probably known originally and forgotten, but it really came out again a few years ago.

“A lot of people left a small community in Armagh that was known as Forkhill. They were arriving in a place in Canada that became known as Little Forkhill, because so many of them were there.

“There was a documentary crew that went looking for that story in 2005/ 2006, and looking for ancestors, and they found my friend’s wife.

He rang me up and told me the story.

He knew I was writing about the Famine.

“You get a lot of people coming up to you and telling you stuff. It’s less often you get a good one, but I was chuffed with that, as it’s a really great

one with a personal connection.”

Stories landing in O’Rourke’s lap certainly wasn’t the norm. “Nearly the entire system of records from back then is gone,” he says.

“You can go back to the 1901 census, and before that it’s very sparse.

Parish records are a new world to explore. I couldn’t really find anything about my own past, but the thing that sparked this whole thing was that my grandad, who was born in 1916, worked in a workhouse.

“I didn’t know what that meant, but I was kind of determined to find out. A book jumped out at me in Easons a couple of months after I heard about my grandad’s job.

“I picked it up in the bargain bin, got on the bus, and read about it.

From the first page, I realised the connection – that the workhouses were built for the Famine. It made the hair stand up on my neck.

“They’re very moving stories.

Whatever that bone is that’s tickled as an artist, I just wanted to write about it straight away.

“I found so much that I realised that one song wasn’t going to do it,” O’Rourke said of his journey, one of rare depth and beauty.

Unquestionably the highlight of Bram Stoker and Halloween fesivities, this dramatic, dark-themed parade through town features huge floats and interactive performances from its passionate actors. October 29 on the northside, after sundown.

Horror Expo

A slightly more serious take on Halloween from the Horror Expo, which explores special effects and film screenings, as well as hosting a collection of horror-themed guests.

It’s in the spooky environs of The Freemason’s Hall on October 29.

Halloween Workshops at Airfield

YOU’LL VONNT TO HELP BRAM STOKER’S HORR CELEBRATE OR LEGACY

Dundrum’s urban farm is a great spot any day, but the Halloween workshops make it a little more involved for the little ones. Aimed at 5-8 year olds, they’ll be making their own monsters on October 28 and 31 (pre-booking recommended).

Dracula’s Disco

Another one for the kids, get them dressed up and head for Meeting House Square in Temple Bar on October 30, where they can dance away to a spooky DJ at an outdoor dance party. Thriller, Ghostbusters and spiky teeth, then...

Ideal Home Show

The RDS’s regular exploration of beautiful interiors and how to produce them returns, promising special offers from a nice big variety of homely companies. It’s on all weekend, from October 27 to 30.

The Cauldron of Smithfield

Rounding off an extremely spooky feeling listing, The Cauldron will see Smithfield Square go big on October 31, with a haunted house, 300ft zipline, circus, bouncy castle, performers, and even a bungee jump.

New album of the week “I’ve learnt over the years that I’m no good at putting together things that other people like,” he concludes, “so I just do what I like.” The rest, in more than one way, is history.

Chronicles of the Great Irish Famine is in shops from October 27. Declan O’Rourke plays Vicar Street on December 14 as part of an 11-date December tour of Ireland.

Weezer - Pacific Daydream. An eleventh studio album from the pop-rock icons, Pacific Daydreams see Rivers Cuomo and co return, channeling – in their words – The Beach Boys and The Clash.

GAZETTE

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 October 2017

DUBLINLIFE

Aslan tune in to support single for Cancer Society ONE of Ireland’s favourite bands have given their support to a brand new song which is released this Thursday to benefit the Irish Cancer Society.

Aslan’s Christy Dignam and Joe Jewell dropped into rehearsals with Eclipse Stage School’s 80-piece vocal group this week to give the students (aged from 4 to 19) from across Dublin advice and mentor them on their road to releasing their debut single.

The chosen song is I Lived, which was originally written by American band One Republic.

The project is the brainchild of creative director and choreographer Kenneth Giles (27) from Kilbarrack, Dublin.

The song focuses on living every moment of life and being able to say you have done it all.

The Kilbarrack-based group have recently picked up awards for Best Stage School in Ireland, Dance Group of the Year and have performed at many venues including the RDS and Croke Park

Stadium.

The single is available now on all digital platforms including iTunes, Spotify, Amazon and Google Play as well as the music video on YouTube with all proceeds going to the Irish Cancer Society.

DUBLIN PORT PROJECT HAS OFFICIALLY OPENED THE Taoiseach and the Lord Mayor of Dublin were the guests of honour as the Dublin Port Centre was officially opened at a star-studded ceremony.

Micheal Mac Donncha and Leo Varadkar were among a 500-strong crowd that was serenaded by acts including Damien Dempsey, John Sheahan of the Dubliners, The Blades, Lisa O’ Neill, Colm Mac Con Iomaire of The Frames and Catherine Fitzgerald.

The project has softened the Port’s boundaries to the city and provides public realm at Port Centre for the first time in 35 years.

Speaking at the official opening ceremony, TaoContinued overleaf

26 October 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

iseach Leo Varadkar said: “This new project will enhance Port-city integration to the benefit of city dwellers and visitors.”

Dublin Port Company is now focused on plans for a new internal road network, cycle lanes and pathways.

The 3km route will give pedestrians and cyclists access to the Port estate for recreational use for the first time.

QUEEN-THEMED EXTRAVAGANZA COMES TO THE BUTTON FACTORY A QUEEN-THEMED gospel gig will take place in the Button Factory, Temple Bar on Saturday, November 4 at 8pm.

The Maynooth Gospel Choir present It’s a Kind of Magic, bringing all the hits, from Radio Gaga to Bohemian Rhapsody, with a gospel twist.

The choir played a wellreceived show in the Sugar Club in June and this Queen-themed extravaganza promises to be a gig not to be missed.

Tickets cost €20 and can be booked via www. eventbrite.ie.

For further information on the Maynooth Gospel Choir can be found on Facebook or by emailing info@maynoothgospel. com.

FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS FOR ALL TO ENJOY THIS HALLOWEEN DUBLIN City Council and local communities all over the city have organised a ghoulish pro-

GAZETTE

DIARY

gramme of family friendly events for all ages to enjoy this Halloween.

These include the Dockers and Demons Festival.

This new initiative in the Irishtown/Ringsend area connects the historic and cultural significance of Oiche Samhna while providing fun, family friendly events for people of all ages to enjoy.

The Ballymun Otherworld Festival also takes place on October 31 with an Escape the Zombies Parade which starts at 5:30pm at the Aisling Project on Shangan Road.

The Finglas Fright Night Halloween Festival will take place at the Civic Centre, Mellowes Road on October 31 from 6pm to 9pm.

There will be many many attractions including the teenage terminator fun fair ride, mini roller coaster, cups, saucer and a carousel.

The Cauldron of Smithfield is also back this year with a new 300ft zipline and a daunting bungee jump for the bravest of participants along with the favourites from last year such as The Haunted House.

Sheriff Street, Ballybough, Summerhill and Sean MacDermott Street areas are coming together for The Big Scream – which will see playstation tournaments taking place as well as a main stage with a mix of local and professional performers.

For more information on local events visit www. dublincity.ie/halloween.

Aslan’s Christy Dignam pictured with Zoe Farrell ,Kate Pepper, Sinead Leahy, Aoife Dunne, Zarah Gibbons and Taylor Molloy, members of the Eclipse Stage School, at the launch of I Lived single. Picture: Patrick O’Leary

GAZETTE

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 October 2017

DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

The Ford Kuga ST-Line comes with price reductions of up to €6,500 under Ford’s Clean up for 181 sales campaign

Ford launches ‘Clean up for 181’ sales offer FORD has announced a range of offers as part of the company’s Clean Up for 181 campaign in preparation for the January new car market. Deals on offer include reductions of up to €6,000 on some cars, plus extended warranties and a super low PCP finance offer of 0%.

The new Ford Kuga ST-Line and Ford’s Grand C-Max, S-Max and Galaxy cars come with the highest price reductions of €6,000 for specific specification models in the ranges.

The Ford Clean Up for 181 campaign includes reductions on Ford’s most popular vans, with reductions of up to €4,000 on the Transit range and the Ford Ranger pick-up truck plus a finance rate of just 3.9%.

“Our Clean Up for 181 campaign is all about making it extremely easy for car buyers to get out of older, less efficient cars and get into one of our new models which have engines that are all Euro 6 compliant, meaning they are meeting the strictest European emissions regulations,” said Ciaran McMahon, chairman and managing director of Ford Ireland.

Hybrid car sales jump by 76% over the past year SALES of new hybrid cars have increased by 76% over the past year while diesel car demand fell by 16%,

Compact Ignis is reincarnated with SUV styling Suzuki has an enviable reputation in the small car market at home in Japan, where it’s the dominant player. For 2017, Suzuki launched the new Ignis model with fresh styling and a more compact stance in a car that’s altogether better than ever before as MICHAEL MORONEY found out when he took its mild hybrid version for a test drive.

SUZUKI has re-incarnated the Ignis into a more compact looking car that’s modern and uses some smart technology. The Ignis is designed as a city car with SUV-like credentials so that you feel that you get a little more than you expect.

Sales of compact cars are growing across Dublin City and its commuter belt as motorists are looking for ways to manage costs with flexible, good-looking cars. This new Ignis introduced at the start of this year, stands out in terms of its design. There’s no doubting its individuality, which is classically Suzuki in terms of identity.

This is a car that has the potential to charm and this charm has won me over. The overall design is modern, with strong hints of the Suzuki Japanese

Suzuki Ignis 1.2 Dualjet Engine Engine power 0 – 100km/hr Economy Fuel Tank Capacity CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Main Service Euro NCAP Rating Warranty Entry Price influence and it is closely based on a previous concept car design. One thought that crossed my mind was if the Ignis grew up to be a real full-size SUV, then it would make some statement.

One of the special features of the Ignis is the novel mild hybrid engine design. It’s not available

1.2 litre 90hp 11.4 seconds 23km/litre (4.3/100km or 66mpg) 32 litres 98g/km A2 €180 15,000km/12 months 5 star (2016) 3 years/100,000km €16,995 in all models and it was a feature of the test car that I drove recently. This system enhances the fuel economy from the tidy 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine with claims of a low CO2 emissions figure of 97g/km and a combined fuel consumption performance of 23km/ litre (4.3l/100km).

The Suzuki mild hybrid system is lightweight and uses what is called an Integrated Starter Generator (known as ISG) which acts as both a generator and starter motor. This belt driven device assists the engine during vehicle take off and acceleration.

It also generates electricity to recharge a compact lithium-ion battery placed under the front passenger seat, through regenerative braking.

The energy assistance provided during acceleration makes this a mild hybrid system and it adds just 6.2kg to the overall weight. Suzuki claims that the ISG generates electricity more efficiently than a conventional alternator through regenerative braking. The ISG unit detects this as soon as the brake pedal is depressed.

Suzuki’s new Ignis combines small and compact motoring with SUV styling and good economy.

Entry prices for the mild hybrid versions start at €16,995.

It is seamless in operation and that’s what makes the car so easy and comfortable to drive.

Out on the road the compact petrol engine is relatively quiet even though you need to rev it up past 3,000rpm on the engine to achieve close to the maximum performance from its five-speed gearbox. While the sweet little engine never seems to be working too hard and my economy experience delivered a range of almost 600km which is

according to the latest statistics from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). Hybrid cars now offer

Latest Range

a great mix of economy with green credentials. There is a wider choice of models now available with credible options in all segments of the market from small cars to large SUVs. Irish car buyers have embraced the technology with few concerns over the life of a battery. In the UK, automotive data experts hpi have crunched the numbers to come up with the best picks when considering a hybrid vehicle. They claim that the luxury Porsche Panamera hybrid retains over 81% of its value after three years and 50,000km. For a family car, they claim that the Volvo XC90 retains over 70% of its value after three years. The Kia Optima hybrid retains 56.1% of its value.

The hybrid system on the new Range Rover P400e emits only 64g/km on the combined cycle and provides an allelectric range of up to 50km without the Ingenium petrol engine running

RANGE ROVER has launched a new plug-in hybrid drive version with what it calls sustainable luxury and new levels of efficiency and capability complementing its refinement and desirability. This new and powerful Range Rover claims a combined 404bhp from the engine and hybrid drive to give impressive acceleration of 6.4 seconds in a 0 to 100km/hr race.

The SUV has a range of 50km on electric-only power and has a rapid full re-

26 October 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

MOTORING

Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio sets Nurburgring SUV speed record THE ALFA Romeo Stelvio Quadri-

distribution. The high-performance

foglio has set the new benchmark

SUV is powered by an all-aluminum,

for a production SUV at Germany’s

direct-injection 2.9-litre 24-valve

legendary Nurburgring circuit, lap-

Twin-Turbo intercooled V6 engine,

ping the epic 20km Nordschleife in a

delivering 510hp and 600Nm of

record seven minutes 51.7 seconds.

torque, which is coupled with the

This new time is a full eight seconds

Q4 all-wheel-drive system. The

faster than the previous produc-

engine is paired to an eight-speed

tion SUV record.

automatic transmission with spe-

Alfa Romeo’s first ever production SUV, integrates lightweight, state-of-the-art materials, such

equivalent to 20% off the rated economy level.

I was also impressed with the road holding and stability of the Ignis when I took it for a longer drive. Out on the motorway it could hold its own and un-phased by passing trucks and comfortable at motorway speeds.

This Ignis was a four-seat car, with a sliding bench seat. The high cabin roof gives an airy feeling to the car so it feels spacious in terms of height, if more compact in width. Still, I never felt cramped in any

way and quickly got comfortable with the controls and their use.

The central info screen is easy to use, but it’s a pity that it wasn’t a little bigger as the frame is deeper than it needs to be. I liked the easy-to-use trip meter so that you don’t need to be a computer programmer to establish or re-set the car’s performance.

The boot area is good for a car of its size, but as the emphasis is for city driving, there is no spare wheel on board.

There’s plenty of safety kit included, such as ABS with EBD and brake assist with stability control as well as hill hold control and hill descent control. This Ignis achieved a five-star safety rating in its recent Euro NCAP crash test, but only for the model with the full safety kit, which includes six airbags (driver, front passenger, side and curtain) with front passenger activation, front height adjustable three-point ELR seatbelts, front seatbelt pre-tensioner and force limiter and two

rear three-point ELR seatbelts, as well as foot protecting brake and clutch pedals and two rear ISOFIX child seat anchorages.

Suzuki sees the Ignis competing against the likes of market leader the Toyota Aygo, Opel Adam and Renault Twingo, while I consider that it has wider appeal. Entry prices are competitive, while the more economical mild hybrid version that I drove is marginally more expensive, it’s still relatively attractively priced at €16,995.

cific settings for shifting in just 150 milliseconds in Race mode.

The Alfa Romeo Stelvio range is

as a carbon fibre driveshaft, to

now available in Dublin dealerships

deliver torsional rigidity, direct

and the Stelvio Quadrifoglio will join

steering and a perfect 50/50 weight

the line up in the Ireland in 2018.

The new Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio SUV with its powerful 510bhp engine has set a new Nurburgring circuit SUV speed record

Oliver Tattan joins board of BMW Financial Services Ireland OLIVER Tattan has joined the board of BMW Financial Services (Ireland) DAC, as an Independent non-executive director. Earlier this year BMW Financial Services (Ireland) DAC, took a significant step in establishing itself as the leading motoring credit institution in Ireland having received authorisation to act as a Retail Credit Firm under the Central Bank of Ireland Act 1997.

Oliver Tattan will serve in an advisory capacity to the management team at BMW Financial Services Ireland and will provide guidance, steering and oversight. He is best known for having founded Vivas Insurance and GloHealth (now Irish Life Health). He is currently chairman for numerous companies in a wide range of industries including Brookson, Fadata and Applied Research for Connected Health and Chairs the Remuneration Committee at CPL Resources. He is an independent non-executive director at AGF

Rover gets silent hybrid drive luxury charge time of just short of three hours.

Range Rover is quoting an economy figure of 35.7km/litre (2.8l/100km of 101mpg) from the new drive system, giving it a new level of economy performance. This new Range Rover P400e emits only 64g/km of CO2 on the combined driving cycle.

Refinement

The cabin has been redesigned to deliver even more refinement wheth-

er travelling for business or pleasure.

There is a new Touch Pro Duo infotainment system with twin high-definition touch screen controls.

Comfort levels have been improved with new front seats that feature up to 24-way movement thanks to the new seat frames, with wider and deeper foams as well as heated arm rests. In the rear a redesigned cabin and seating layout create comfort with no compromise to the rear load space.

If you’re working while being driven, up to 17 connection points including domestic plug sockets, USB, HDMI and 12-volt are all available; 4G Wi-Fi hotspots for up to eight devices and convenient storage are all designed for the business traveller. The cabin is tailored for relaxation with luxurious seats offering 25 massage programmes, thanks to Hot Stone massage technology within the seat backs.

International was also the founder of Insurance Regulatory Capital and OneBigSwitch. Previously, Oliver Tattan served as the chief executive of VHI Healthcare and was a co-founder of Daon.

BMW Financial Services was established in Ireland in 2007 and currently employs over 25 people in its Dublin head office, and is the captive finance

Brian Merrigan, managing director, BMW

company for BMW Group

Financial Services, Ireland with newly

in Ireland.

appointed non-executive director Oliver Tattan

GAZETTE

26 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 October 2017

DUBLINLIFE

 ALISON O’HANLON

IT’S often said that if only Ireland had the same sort of climate as, say, the Mediterranean, it’d be the greatest little place on Earth.

Well, with its Celtic heritage – not to mention a lush, green landscape so similar to our own – perhaps Galicia, the crown jewel on the Camino Way, is just that.

It feels far removed from the rest of Spain and it’s vibrant living history is unique.

Flying in to the charming city of Santiago de

Compostela, I checked into the boutique Carris Hotel Casa de Troya, smack, bang in the middle of the old town, surrounded by narrow streets filled with bars, restaurants and shops. It was the perfect base for discovering Galicia.

At the heart of this magical UNESCO world heritage site is the 700-year-old Cathedral of Santiago, the final destination for many Camino pilgrims and site of the tomb of St James.

During the Pilgrims’ mass at midday, you may be lucky enough to see them swinging the Botafumeiro – a gigantic incense burner that hangs

from the cathedral’s vaulted ceiling. It takes eight men to get it swinging and reaches speeds of up to 75kmh, a spectacle you won’t soon forget.

Then, before you get too dizzy, make your way up to the cathedral roof to get a bird’s eye view of this ancient city.

When eating out in Santiago de Compostela, Franco and Raina streets in the heart of old quarter are the perfect place start. Lined with restaurants

The beautiful village of O’Cebreiro

The ancient narrow streets of Santiago’s old town

Local delicacy percebes... or ‘gruffalo claws’

Praterias Plaza in Santiago’s old town

and bars, many displaying a wealth of typical dishes and tapas on offer, the quality and flavours will have you coming back for more.

On our first night we were lucky enough to enjoy the mouthwatering food at the Michelin Star Casa Marcelo.

Honestly, I would have licked the plates clean if it wasn’t a bit unpilgrim-like!

Galicia is well known for being a gastronomical hub and whether you are eating out in Santiago or one of the smaller villages you won’t be disappointed.

26 October 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

The choice of seafood is endless, with everything from octopus to percebes – which look like the Gruffalo’s claws but are so sweet and succulent that I managed to polish off the best part of a plate. Whatever you chose, be it empanadas, Galicia broth, scallops and spider crabs, they can all be washed down with refreshing local wines such as an Albarino or Ribeiro. Not bad fare for a pilgrim!

The French way of St James is a colourful path surrounded by mountains, picturesque villages, stone crosses, monuments, churches and the smell of fresh country air. One of my favourite

Historic Pontevedra

hamlets on the French way, O’Cebreiro, is a beautiful village of traditional thatched dwellings or ‘pallozas’ and is home to the church of Santa Maria. It was here in the winter of 1300, a Benedictine priest was celebrating mass when the eucharistic host miraculously changed to flesh and the wine to blood. Piglrims come every year to see the host, which is preserved in a shrine along with the chalice that contained the blood.

A stop in Palas de Res to see the church of Vilar de Donas is a must. This small church is said to have been built in the 7th century by Irish

The Baotafumeiro in full swing

monks, and boasts beautifully carved stonework, magnificent medieval paintings and sculptures.

Only a ten minute drive from Vilar de Donas you’ll find Arqueixal in Alba, a family farm which produces organic homemade cheese, yoghurt and organic milk. It offers ecotourism activities and a glimpse into the traditional way of life. Pre book for the chance to make your own cheese.

Accommodation along the Camino varies.

Spotless government-run hostels from €6 per night, private hostels, country houses, luxurious paradoes and hotels – you can take your pick!

GAZETTE

TRAVEL

Saying goodbye to Santiago, only an hour to the south is Pontevedra.

Shaped by a rich maritime history and trading past, Pontevedra boasts a well preserved medieval town centre, and you can capture the true essence of the city by exploring its network of lanes and squares which are abuzz with markets, shops, tapas bars and cafes.

Before reaching A Guarda at the very southwest tip of Galicia which borders Portugal, stop for a seafood lunch at Lemos in the village of Redondela. I promise you’ll be glad you did.

Overlooking the Atlantic ocean, the stunning coastline and spectacular beaches surrounding A Guarda will take your breath aw ay. W h i l e there, a trip to the deserted village – and Celtic fort – of Santa Tegra is not to be missed.

Originating Church of Vilar de Donas The 700-year-old Santiago Cathedral from about 500 BC, there are remnants of over 100 huts inside an encircling wall. The 341m summit is a 4km drive or a 2km The spectacular view of the uphill walk from town.

UNESCO World Heritage site A visit to A Guarda would not be complete from the top of the cathedral of without a visit to one of its wonderful wineries.

Santiago. Pictures:ALISON O’HANLON Bodega Terra Gauda provides tours of the vineyards and winery followed by a lovely tasting experience. You won’t leave empty handed.

For our final night in Galicia we made ourselves comfortable at the stunning National Parador of Baiona. Built in the style of a Galician manor house within the walls of a medieval fortress, this parador will exceed all of your expectations, from the food, facilities, helpful staff and superb surroundings.

Flying out of Vigo, Galicia’s largest city, there was just enough time to stroll around the charming and well preserved old quarter and to enjoy a coffee in the sunshine.

After six days in Galicia soaking up the beautiful lush green countryside, eating some of the most fabulous food I’ve ever tasted and completing a mere 10km of the French Camino on foot, it has definitely left me with an itch for more, so watch this space – I’ll be back.  For more information on your booking your holiday to Galicia visit www.spain.info

GALICIA: ALICIA: A Celtic paradise on the Camino Way

The Celtic fort of Santa Tegra

GAZETTE

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 October 2017

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA

ROUND-UP: SOME OF THE TOP TITLES TO GIVE YOU THRILLS AND CHILLS IN CINEMAS

ReelReviews

A SACRED DEAR

Will it make a killing?

THERE’S something disturbingly dark at the heart of The Killing of a Sacred Deer (121 mins), despite its occasionally absurd leanings. Colin Farrell is the bearded, brilliant doctor at the core of the film, but his family life with Nicole Kidman begins to shudder apart when he takes a paternal interest in a youth, whose own story takes them along a surreal journey.

BLADE RUNNER 2049 Not as sharp as wanted

Horribly good films Clockwise from top left: It, Insidious: The Last Key, Annihalation, and Jigsaw

LET’S face it – horror movies don’t win awards.

Sure, there are plenty of best visual effects, costume design and the occasional editing or cinematography nod to go around.

Howe ve r, t h e b i g awards are rarely given to anything that doesn’t skirt the line between horror and thriller – Hannibal Lecter might get Oscar attention, but Freddie or Jason never will.

Still, it’s the time of year to get excited about the genre; as long as the scares are delivered, who cares about realism or thespian performances?

With that in mind, here’s a look at some of the biggest horror in cinemas this Halloween and in the months to come ...

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

With It, director Andres Muschietti introduced pop culture’s most infamous evil clown to a new generation and redefined him for long-time fans with this reboot.

It’s perhaps the most Stephen-Kingy Stephen King adaptation ever made – indeed, it got the author’s rarely-awarded seal of approval.

While It falls short of dishing out genuine, longlasting scares, it packs a talented young cast,

rarely shies away from the darkest elements of the source material, and holds plenty of promise for 2019’s planned sequel.

Still on general release, catch it in cinemas this Halloween!

Moving on, and with 2010’s Saw 3D billed as the final entry in the sostale-it’s-mouldy horror series, it seemed we’d be spared future instalments fraught with more dreadfully convoluted plots and barely strung together torture sequences.

It’s a shame really, as the 2003 original, directed by James Wan, was a pretty refreshing, disturbingly clever little horror movie.

Judging from trailers, Jigsaw appears to take itself a little less seriously

than the past few Saw entries, and if it eschews all headache-inducing layers of “plot” in favour of a more stripped back story, Jigsaw may live up to the promise of the original and deliver a Halloween treat.

Notably, Tobin Bell reprises his role as the titular villain – odd, considering the character died about four movies ago ...

On to Insidious: The Last Key for another big horror sequel, and another franchise initiated by director James Wan. Though not to the same disastrous extent as the Saw series, the Insidious films have waned following a delightfully creepy start back in 2010.

Insidious 2 followed up on some of the prom-

ise of the original, but the third entry in the series was unfortunately routine, packing in plenty of chilling imagery but failing to dish out any genuine scares.

Judging from the trailer, this fourth instalment will certainly deliver on the former. In another prequel to the original, following Insidious 3, Lin Shaye returns as “parapsychologist” Elise Rainier, who’s led to investigate a haunting that’s disturbingly close to home.

Insidious: The Last Key hits cinemas in early January.

Last but not least, Annihilation sees director Alex Garland’s attempt to film the unfilmable with this adaptation of the first

part in writer Jeff Vandermeer’s ultra-weird sci-fi horror trilogy.

Garland f lexed his intellectual sci-fi muscle with 2015’s excellent ExMachina, and has demonstrated a knack for forward-thinking terror with his screenplays for 28 Days Later, and Sunshine.

The recently released trailer for Annihilation suggests a dark, meditative handling of the source material: a Lovecraftian story in which a biologist (Natalie Portman) carries out an expedition with a secret government agency into a mysterious disaster zone.

Annihilation also stars Oscar Isaac and Jennifer Jason Lee and hits cinemas next February.

BLADERUNNER 2049 (Cert 15A, 163 mins), to be blunt, isn’t quite the razor-sharp follow-up fans of the true cinema classic have waited decades for. Yes, it’s an interesting sequel that continues to explore what it means to be human, but there’s something a little soulless here. Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford are fine, but they’re a little lost under the weight of the admittedly great visuals

HAPPY DEATH DAY

Has some killer deja vu IMAGINE Groundhog Day with a serial killer twist.

That’s perhaps the ‘elevator pitch’ for Happy Death Day (Cert 15A, 100 mins), which turns out to be surprisingly enjoyable despite its B-Movie shlock story. A young college student keeps getting murdered – then relives the same day, trying to work out who the killer is. The twist here is that her ‘reboots’ are limited, adding urgency to her quest.

26 October 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FOOD&DRINK

Start spreading the news… of the Big NYC Melt Sub LONGING for a taste of the Big Apple?

Halloween treats GET creative and whip up a batch of our homemade Halloween treats this year! These spooktacular cookies are perfect for your fright-night party or to hand out to trick or treaters on Halloween night.

Your little monsters will not only enjoy devouring these sweet treats, but the method is easy enough for them to take up the role of sous chef in the kitchen.

Makes about 20 (depending on size of cutters used) Ingredients (for the biscuits)  100g butter, at room temperature

115g Siucra Caster Sugar  1 medium egg  2 teaspoons vanilla extract  250g plain white flour Ingredients (For the icing)  Siucra roll out icing  Orange & black icing colour  Siucra Icing Sugar 

Method To prepare the cookies Preheat the oven to 190°C. Beat the butter and Siucra Caster Sugar together with an electric whisk until combined.

Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat again.

Finally beat in the flour at a low speed to mix. Once mixed form into a ball of dough with your hands.

ZAMBRERO, a healthy quick-service restaurant chain and humanitarian enterprise, has announced the opening of two new Dublin-based locations.

Spearheaded by former Leinster rugby pro, Darragh Fanning, the Australian chain, which specialises in fresh, healthy Mexican food, recently opened the doors of its fourth Irish restaurant and first franchise, located at Beacon South Quarter, Sandyford.

A second restaurant will open on Parnell Street in mid-November.

Commenting at the launch Darragh Fanning said:

Try this tasty recipe

Put the ball of dough onto a work surface that you have dusted with flour.

Roll out the dough to approximately ½ cm thick and cut out shapes using the cutters.

Lift carefully onto a baking tray lined with baking parchment.

Bake for 14-15 minutes until golden.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the tray.

To prepare the icing Break off some of the white Siucra Roll Out Icing and knead until it softens.

Dust your work surface with Siucra Icing Sugar.

Roll the white icing out to a thin layer and cut out the same shapes

you used for the biscuits.

Lift off the work surface carefully. Put a few tiny dots of water on the back and then stick onto your cookies.

Tear off two more pieces of Siucra Roll Out Icing and colour one piece orange for the pumpkins and the other black for the bats. To colour the icing put a small amount of colour onto the white icing and knead it in until it is well combined. (You may want to wear gloves when doing this.)

Add more colour if necessary.

To decorate Use the black and white icing to make eyeballs, mummies, spiders, spooky (or friendly) ghosts, monsters, vampires etc.

Mexican food chain Zambrero comes to Dublin Menu choices include slow-cooked meats marinated with spices and natural herbs; the freshest of accompaniments, from crisp cos lettuce to fiery

“I first came across Zambrero while playing rugby

jalapenos; six speciality sauces exclusive to Zam-

in Australia and was instantly intrigued by the

brero; and a range of sides.

unique values and fresh outlook of the business.

“Two years later, I’m pleased to say this season marks an exciting time for Zambrero in Ireland.

“The opening of our fourth and fifth stores in the heart of the capital is testament to the huge demand for our offering and the uniqueness it brings to Ireland’s food scene.

“I am excited for what the next 12 months has in store and look forward to customers experiencing our food and brand-new coffee offering.”

The chain offers classic Mexican favourites, as well as gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan options.

You’re in luck as Subway stores are adding a delicious new product to their menu that will bring the authentic taste of NYC to Ireland introducing the Big NYC Melt Sub, available nationwide for a limited time only.

The Big NYC Melt comes loaded with delicious pastrami and is lightly toasted, smothered in melted cheese and topped with tomato, pickle and classic American mustard.

Sound good? Don’t wait around to get your hands on this delicious Sub as it will only be available in stores until November 14.

In the words of Frank Sinatra, start spreading the news…

Zambrero Beacon South Quarter is operated by franchisees Cameron and Marina Matthews.

Speaking at the restaurant opening, Cameron said: “Marina and I have been seeking a career change for some time now.

“The Zambrero franchise opportunity instantly appealed to us due to the company’s pace of growth internationally and its brand values.

“We are really thrilled to be opening Ireland’s fourth Zambrero in Sandyford today and look forward to playing our part in Zambrero’s future success.”

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 26 October 2017

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34 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 26 October 2017

SPORT

FastSport NAC AND UCD SWIMMERS IN IRISH SQUAD: NAC’S Conor Ferguson, Brendan Hyland and Alex Murphy and UCD’S Darragh Greene were all included in the Irish swimming team for the LEN European Short Course (25m) Swimming Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark from December 13 to 17.

Ferguson comes into the team off the back of a fine weekend at the Amsterdam Swim Cup where he won 50m and 100m Backstroke golds, breaking his own 100m senior Irish record in the process.

The team includes 2017 World Championship team members Nicholas Quinn, Jordan Sloan, Hyland, Mona McSharry and Ferguson lead the team.

The 50m breaststroke bronze medalist at the 2015 event, Murphy, is joined by Irish record holders Danielle Hill and Conor Brines and 2017 World University Games swimmer Greene and Calum Bain completing the 10-strong team.

CYCLING: IRISH TEAM FINISH SECOND IN MADISON EVENT ON BERLIN TRACK

Euro silver medalist Boylan ‘in disbelief’ at track glory

 sport@dublingazette.com

RINGSEND’S Lydia Boylan and team mate Lydia Gurley won silver at the 2017 UEC Track Elite European Championships in Berlin last Sunday as the powerful pair stormed into the Madison medals after lapping the field twice.

Gold went to Great Britain’s Elinor Barker and Eleanor Dickinson, with the bronze medal going to Dutch multiple World and European Champion Kirsten Wild with her partner Amy Pieters.

Speaking after the race Boylan and Gurley were in disbelief – “It hasn’t quite sunk in,” said Boylan: “It’s my fourth elite Europeans. I train really hard every year, and finally it all came together. We have the legs, we have the power, and we are gaining in experience all the time. To get a medal is unbelievable really.”

Gurley highlighted the strength of the Irish pairing – “I’m really proud of what we achieved today. It was an awesome team effort. We work really well together.

“I’m still in disbelief – it means so much to us – and

Lydia Boylan and Lydia Gurley with their silver medals

that it’s a team medal as well.

It means so much more than an individual medal. We always work really hard and it’s worth it – we push each other in training to get better.

You give 100% because you know the other one is giving 100% too.”

The Madison has recently been added to the Olympic programme, and this year

was the first year for it to be included in the women’s track programme.

The Irish team are coached by former Madison World Champion David Muntaner, and have been honing their skills and technique in their track base in Majorca.

Boylan and Gurley eased themselves into the 30km race, remaining calm and

composed in the early stages.

“It took us a while to settle into it,” said Boylan, “We haven’t raced since the worlds so we didn’t have any expectations.

“We didn’t panic, and after 20 laps got to the front of the group – we were watching moves, and watching David.

Then we got into the group that got a lap, and then we

took another one. We were up there and racing – we were in the race, not just chasing like we were doing at the Worlds last year.”

The Irish women were leading coming into the last sprint which had double points on offer.

Gurley said: “The last sprint was just so fast – there wasn’t a lot we could do. But if you told me this morning that we would get silver, I wouldn’t have believed you!! Ultimately, we are two strong riders, and that’s good.

“Technically we can get better, and we have three more races coming up in the next few weeks, and racing is the best training you can do.”

With two World Cups coming up in the next three weeks, this bodes well for the silver medal winning duo.

“We are proving to ourselves we are strong enough to compete. Today, we got a European medal; if we are capable of a medal here, we are capable of one on the world stage, this is going to give us a boost going into the World Cups” said Boylan, who finished eighth in the Omnium a day earlier.

Tarnogrodzki hails UCD showing despite Molde loss  sport@dublingazette.com

UCD Under-19 manager Maciej Tarnogrodzki

UCD Under-19 manager Maciej Tarnogrodzki praised his side following their 5-4 penalty shootout defeat in the UEFA Youth League against Molde FK. The students went into the game with a 2-1 lead from the home leg but the Norwegian side pegged UCD back with goals from Sivert Gussias and Leo Oestigaard.

Jack Ryan’s 51st-minute strike levelled the tie on aggregate to force extra-time and after a goalless 30 minutes, the game

was decided on penalties. Luke Boore’s penalty was saved by Molde keeper Jonatan Byttingsvik to send the Norwegians through to the second round of the domestic champions path of the UEFA Youth League.

Despite the narrow penalty shoot-out defeat, Tarnogrodzki was full of praise for his side who are only the second side from Ireland to play in the UEFA Youth League.

The UCD U19 manager said: “To lose on penalties is always going to be difficult for us to take.

We didn’t play particularly well

in the first-half but in the secondhalf, we came back strong.

“We were the better team throughout the second-half and we kept the ball really well.

Molde struggled with our play and I think we did really well to get them to penalties.

“It is always unlucky to lose that way and not progress in the competition.

“I think the players should be really proud of their achievement tonight as this is a great level for them to be competing at.

“Molde are a fully professional side and their players

train throughout the week, and we’ve more than matched them tonight.

“They’ve got seven international players playing for Norway and we’ve only got one international but the players rose to the level and to only lose on penalties, that is a great sign for us.”

The students gained a place in the UEFA Youth League through the domestic champions path after they won the SSE Airtricity Under-19 league title last season.

Tarnogrodzki believes the UEFA Youth League experience will benefit the players in the future.

26 October 2017 NORTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 35

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Teenagers McLoughlin and Torrans shine in Irish debut  STEPHEN FINDLATER

DUBLIN teenagers Sarah Torrans, pictured above, and Hannah McLoughlin both showed up well in their Ireland senior international hockey debuts last Sunday at Stormont as they played their part in a 1-1 draw with Scotland.

It was Ireland’s first international tie on home soil of 2017 with coach Graham Shaw using a much-changed side from the one that played in the summer, earning World Cup qualification and retained their top tier European status.

Torrans came through the Corinthian club’s youth system before moving to Loreto in Beaufort. McLoughlin is another who moved to Loreto having previously played for Avoca.

They were ten changes from the side that played in August’s Europeans. Given all the changes, the coach was content with the performance for a side with an average age of 21.

“We’ve got to look at the World Cup but we also have to look even further, beyond that to Tokyo in 2020,” Shaw said afterwards. “We have to make sure we have a squad full of different generations.

We need to give the younger players, give them the opportunity and see if we can make a really competitive squad.”

As for the debutantes specifically, he added: “Hannah showed a lot of composure. She has a good physical presence and is calm on the ball.

She needs to play a bit more but I was happy with how she went.

“Sarah was a real constant threat up there.

When you have that speed, it’s really exciting to see her use it. We feel her skill-set and the physicality she has is so suited to international hockey.”

Indeed, for Torrans, it has been a particularly steep rise through the ranks, playing for the Irish Under-18s and 21s this summer, even more remarkable given that she spent the guts of nine months out with a cruciate knee injury.

“She was someone we were targeting at the time,” Shaw said of the injury, one which he was in attendance at the time. “We were pretty excited when she was coming through. When she picked up the injury, it was obviously disappointing but to come back like that and show the level to play Under-18, 21 and make her debut at senior is a testament to her.”

Sky is the limit for Keane in Paralympic promotion After school days marked by self-consciousness, Clontarf woman Ellen Keane says it took until college days to finally grow confidence in herself despite her swimming exploits  DARRAGH O’CONCHUIR sport@dublingazette.com

IRISH Paralympic swimming sensation Ellen Keane is on a mission to remove any lingering stigma surrounding physical impairment, after admitting that she felt like a freak because of her undeveloped left arm until her late teens.

Now 22, the Paralympic bronze medallist from Rio 2016 was still wearing long sleeves during her Leaving Cert year even though she had competed at the Beijing and London Games by that point.

It was only when she went to DIT, where she is studying culinary entrepreneurship, that Keane finally felt confident enough outside the pool

to be herself.

“When I was growing up, I became so selfconscious about my arm and the only place where I was myself was when I was swimming” said Keane.

“So Paralympic sport has been my life and is where I found confidence in my body.

“When I was growing up, people in wheelchairs were in the media. People knew blind and deaf people. But when you see a kid walking around with one arm people get scared and stare. And that causes the kid to doubt themselves and be scared themselves.

“The more people like myself are out there, the more it can be seen as a norm and the more

confidence that young, disabled person is going to have in themselves, that they’re not a freak.

Because that’s what I felt about myself.”

Keane was speaking at Sky Ireland’s headquarters after she was announced among a list of ten sportspeople recruited to the Sky Sports Scholarship Programme.

The Clontarf native is enthused by having a greater platform from which to raise the profile of Paralympic sport and increased funding as she looks to the European Championships in Dublin next year and the Tokyo Paralympics in 2020.

Meanwhile, the threeyear programme will also

provide invaluable mentoring and work experience opportunities.

“When I was applying for it I was thinking ‘This is Sky Sports, this is so cool.’

“Being a Paraly mpic athlete, it was about growing the sport, making people realise that it is an elite sport. It’s not the Special Olympics. That’s what they always confuse it with. It’s on a par with the Olympics.

“Having that extra bit of money means I’ll be able to get the extra bit of stuff that everybody else has but I couldn’t afford, even with the funding I get from Sport Ireland, which is greatly valued.

“When I get ner vous, I get so cold so getting some heated jackets

Irish Paralympic swimmer, Ellen Keane, is amongst ten sportspeople across a range of sports that have been recruited to the Sky Sports Scholarship Programme. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

would be worth investing in. And then sometimes my temperature gets very high post-race so some ice jackets would help recover better.

“Then there are recovery boots for compression. You put them on and fill them with air.

That’s worth looking at.

Because I have one arm, I’m leg-dominated when I swim so that would be a big help.

“The work experience is important too, with my post-swimming career in mind.”

The familiarity of the National Aquatic Centre, where she trains under the eagle of eye of Para Swimming legend Dave Malone, will be beneficial when the European Championships come to town.

There will be increased expectation, particularly given her medal-winning efforts at the Paralympics and World Championships, but Keane is not shying away from THAT. “You have the choice.

You can either worry about what could happen or you can be excited about what could happen.

“In the past I probably worried a lot more about things going wrong instead of being excited about what could happen.

“So I’m changing my thought process. It’s about embracing it and the more I embrace it the more the country is going to embrace it.”

GAZETTE

36 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 26 October 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

BASKETBALL: BLANCH CLUB LANDS HISTORIC WIN OVER TEMPLEOGUE

Boughal’s perfect timing BALLYBOUGHAL GAA club were one of the four lucky winners to be awarded a digital clock and scoreboard, to the value of €6,000, for their GAA club as part of the EirGrid GAA Moments in Time online competition.

The competition kicked off in conjunction with the GAA All-Ireland Hurling and Football Championship when EirGrid encouraged GAA fans to post an image of their favourite moment in time to either Twitter or Instagram using #EirGridGAA. Ballyboughal GAA Club Secretary Fergal Arthurs said: “We are delighted to have won this great prize and we would like to thank everyone that voted for us.

“We are in the process of upgrading our facilities and this scoreboard will contribute hugely to it.”

The Tridents Division 2 side in action on Tuesday evening against Maol Og. Picture: Martin Doherty

McGurk the Trident leader sport@dublingazette.com

Saints strike down Thunder UNDERDOGS DCU Saints caused the upset of basketball’s Hula Hoops National Cup weekend when they overcame reigning champions Griffith College Swords Thunder in thrilling fashion, 75-70.

“It was a sweet win to get,” admitted DCU Saints head coach, Joey Boylan.

“It feels very good to get the win, especially in the cup. It was always going to be a tough game, being up against Swords and especially in their place, but we never let them get a run on us.”

Swords, who had lost just one game so far this season, were left on the back foot from early on as Joey Boylan’s charges drove into a 38-42 point half time lead.

TRIDENTS senior two ladies team produced an historic win as they defeated Templeogue’s Senior 1 team in the first round of the Dublin Senior Cup championship.

It is the first time in recent memor y that Tridents’ second division team has beaten a first division team in the championship.

Tr i d e n t s we r e l e d

by Carol McDaid who scored 11 points and Alannah McGurk with

10 points with the latter also leading all players with an impressive 15 rebounds.

The game was a tense, hard fought defensive battle throughout the first half. Templeogue went up by a 7-2 score in the first quarter but Tridents clawed back to get the score levelled at the end of the quarter.

The second quarter saw Tridents take the lead for good as they led by five-points at half-time. The second half, again, saw the lead remain with Tri-

dents and they cruised to a nine-point victory, 40-31.

The defensive effort

by Tridents was the factor that led to their victor y. They exacted a defensive pressure that led to Templeogue making only 14 of their 58 shots taken. McGurk sealed the well-earned victory with 4 consecutive free throws in a one-minute span in the last minute of the game.

Tridents team now progress to the second round of the championship where they will

meet Meteors Division 1 team, a home game for the Blanch-based club.

Elsewhere, Tridents Under-13 girls basketball team, playing in their first season in Dublin Ladies Division One, pulled off an early season upset versus Meteors from Sandyford.

Played at Tridents’ home cour t in Saint Brigid’s National School Community Centre in Castleknock, the game was back and for th throughout.

Tridents took the first period by a narrow mar-

gin, lighting a fire on the Meteors bench.

Meteors came back strongly, taking the second and third quarters, leaving Tridents with a 10-point deficit.

Tridents went on to shut out Meteors in the fourth quarter. A free throw by Mei Mei Sun late in the fourth tied the match.

Katie O’Connell led the Tridents in scoring but it was Sun again who went on to hit the game winner with only 20 seconds left on the clock.

26 October 2017 NORTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 37

GAZETTE

SOCCER: BIZARRE WINNER SEES SWORDS SIDE THROUGH

Verona keep DDSL Major title hopes rolling with big win over Esker Celtic

The Rivervalley Rangers senior side

Rangers’ Junior Cup run keeps rolling on FAI JUNIOR CUP 4TH RD Bellurgan 2 Rivervalley Rangers 3  sport@dublingazette.com

RIVERVALLEY Rangers scored twice in the last ten minutes to book their place in the fourth round of the FAI Junior Cup with a 3-2 away win over Bellurgan last Sunday morning.

Bellurgan were bullish about their chances going into the game and took the lead before going down to 10 men.

Rivervalley equalised before half-time but the home side retook the lead early in the second half. However, two goals in the final ten minutes shocked Bellurgan and saw R iver valley progress.

The home side enjoyed a fine start to the game but wasted a number of chances to

take the lead. They did eventually find the net after 15 minutes when Barry Carr latched onto Shane Finnegan’s ball and fired over Conor Hurley in the Rivervalley goal.

With the half hour mark approaching, the game took a dramatic turn when Darren Doyle raced onto a through ball from James Rock and looked set to score.

Marching orders Doyle was fouled

by Bellurgan keeper Robbie Ar thur, however, who was given his marching orders by the referee.

Doyle stepped up to take the spot kick himself but he spurned the opportunity to bring the sides level by crashing his effort off the post.

Rivervalley did manage to equalise before

DDSLSoccer

the break, however, when Paul Gibney fired Rock’s delivery from the left past substitute net minder Davy McDonald.

Bellurgan regrouped at half-time and came out looking determined to restore their lead.

T hey soon got what they wanted when Brian White popped up at the back post to finish Ciaran Sheelen’s deep cross.

Carr had a great chance to increase his side’s lead after he was left free in the six yard box to get on the end of a free kick.

He somehow failed to find the net, however, and you got the sense he would come to regret that missed opportunity.

R iver valley knew they were in serious danger of exiting the competition and Gerry Coughlan made four

changes in an attempt to get back into the game.

His decision paid off when Aaron Byrne sent a ball over the top, which Doyle burst a lung to get on the end of. The forward did well to keep his cool and finish underneath the keeper.

With extra-time looming, Bellurgan seemed happy to tackle the extra playing time but Rivervalley had other ideas.

Rivervalley won the ball and set Doyle free down the right-hand side, who put an excellent ball into the box between the keeper and his defence.

McDoanld attempted to clear but his effort struck the back of a defender, hit the post and finished in the back of the net in a bizarre end to the game.

VERONA FC kept their DDSL Under-13 Major title hopes alive with a hard-fought 3-1 win over Esker Celtic in difficult conditions at Coolmine Park last weekend.

Many games across the county were called off due to Storm Brian but youngsters from the two teams showed their love for the game as they braved the elements, and those from Verona will be glad they did so.

Conditions were tough but Keith Obaseki went close early on with a long-range strike that had to be pushed around the post by the visiting keeper.

Esker then should have taken the lead but they managed to blaze over from six yards out when it seemed easier to score.

Emmanuel Osas almost opened the scoring when his cross cum shot had to be headed off the line, before the Esker keeper did well to keep out a powerful drive from Conor Duke.

Verona started the second half firmly on top and eventually took the lead after some good work from man of the match Samuel Bumbu. He showed some excellent footwork before finding Ben Hilliard at the edge of the box. Hilliard found space and delivered a ball across the goal that Obaseki made sure finished in the back of the net.

Obaseki was involved again shortly afterwards as he flicked delightfully into the path of Filip Ilas who raced towards goal before firing a shot into the top corner that gave the keeper no chance.

Esker tried to get themselves back into the game but Verona put the result beyond doubt when Ilas scored his second after he was left free in the box to turn home an inch perfect pass by Callum Lawless.

The visitors did manage to score a consolation with a headed goal from a corner but it was far too late to trouble Verona, who have now won five league games on the bounce to leave them dreaming of playing top division football next season.



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GAZETTE

38 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 26 October 2017

SPORT

LADIES FOOTBALL: SKERRIES WOMAN REFLECTS ON THE

FASTGAA

Davey inspiring  KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

Castleknock celebrate their success. Picture: Niall O’Connell

Swan spurs Knock to U-15A crown CASTLEKNOCK captured the Under-15 A hurling championship in dramatic circumstances last Sunday with a 1-17 to 3-9 win over Ballyboden St Enda’s at Blakestown Road.

It was an enthralling encounter in which both teams had opportunities to claim the title. The smarter start came from Knock with a point after 30 seconds from an in-form Luke Swan who was to claim an amazing 15 of his side’s 18 scores. Boden, though, with the wind edged in front via Rhys McDonnell and Daragh Kenny with a stunning side-line cut to help build a three-point lead at the break. Three points from Swan in quick succession, including two frees, saw Castleknock bring matters on level terms early in the second half.

Ballyboden suffered a scoring drought as Castleknock powered ahead through a series of Swan points from frees and a Luke Callinan score. Twelve minutes in, McDonnell got Boden going again with a point.

A Mikey Bohan goal, manufactured by Tom Norton, seemed to assure a Knock win but a goal apiece for Boden’s McDonnell and Kenny cut Castleknock margin to four and put spectators to the edge of their seats.

Swan and Tom Norton kept the Castleknock scoring alive but a Kenny goal in the dying minutes brought Boden within two points of Castleknock. The resurgence was a little too late and Castleknock ran out winners.

WITH All-Ireland glory fresh in the mind, Skerries’ Lyndsey Davey is already playing a part in inspiring the next generation.

The Dublin ladies footballers’ Brendan Martin Cup success, achieved with a 4-11 to 0-11 win over Mayo at Croke Park, brought her sport to a whole new audience, not just in front of a record crowd for the sport but also on television and beyond.

She was in Holy Spirit BNS in Ballymun on Tuesday at an AIG Heroes event, an initiative that sees Dublin stars like Davey, Paddy Andrews and Eoghan O’Donnell go out to schools and help provide positive role models and build confidence for young people in local communities.

For Davey and her side,

it was very much a matter of persistence finally paying off, finally landing the county’s second AllIreland title after three painful and dramatic final losses to Cork.

“For all the heartbreak of the past few years, to finally get over the line was amazing,” Davey told GazetteSport. “Especially getting to play in an All-Ireland final in front of 46,000 people really added to it.

“As happy as we were, there was a lot of emotion within the team as well to finally get over the line.”

The Jackies defence were excellent from start to finish against Mayo, while the forwards did the business for Dublin when it really mattered. Davey puts that down to the panel’s strength in depth.

“I think that’s the strength in depth in the team this year that Mick [Bohan] has developed.

The defence has been

fantastic all year, and the forwards. With 10 minutes to go, there was still only three points in it and Sarah McCaffrey came on to put away two amazing goals.

“Hannah O’Neill also put in an amazing crossfield ball for Carla Rowe to put in another so when you have players like that coming off the bench and finishing out games,

Dublin stars Fiona Hudson, Lyndsey Davey, Rian McBride, Ballymun with the Brendan Martin Cup and Sam Maguire

CLUB NOTICEBOARD CASTLEKNOCK

OUR nursery, with thanks to Tigers Childcare, is every Saturday morning at Tir na nOg/ Somerton. New members always welcome.

Nursery enquiries to lisakiernan1@gmail.com.

Congratulations to our U-15A hurlers who are championship winners thanks to a great second half comeback against Ballyboden to win 1-17 to 3-9. Well done to all the lads, mentors and coaches.

Well done to our minor hurlers who had a great Championship win over St Vincent’s 4-10 to 1-14.

Dates for your Diary: the club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place on Monday, November 27 at 8pm in the Castleknock Hotel.

All registered adult full nembers are eligible to attend, participate and vote at the AGM. Preparation is well underway for our latest fundraiser Lipsync Battle on November 11 in Westmanstown.

Visit the club’s website to get a sneak peak at all the teams competing and find out how to sponsor a group.

No winner of our lotto jackpot.

Numbers drawn were 2, 5, 9 and 29 with three ‘match 3’ winners winning €100 each.

Lucky dip winner was Mary Neville who takes home €30.

Our new jackpot is €2,600 with the next draw in The Bell on October 26.

Thanks to Rialto Ford for the continued support.

ERIN GO BRAGH

NO WINNER of our lotto jackpot which is €10,000.

Please support as these funds are vital for the running of our club. Numbers drawn were 15, 16, 18 and 22.

Our Halloween disco takes place this Friday, October 27 in Castaheany Community Centre from 6.30pm to 9pm.

Disco fancy dress, dance show by Fusion Elitie All Star Cheer, Haunted House and prizes for best dressed.

A lot of our juvenile

matches were cancelled at the weekend due to bad weather. However, a few of our teams braved the elements and did our club proud. Our U-8 boys had two great hurling wins against Parnells on Saturday morning.

The U-11 girls played a fantastic game of football against Clontarf on Sunday morning in very breezy conditions.

Our U-9 girls were away to Clann Mhuire and were just fantastic. Hard luck to our U-15 hurlers who lost out in the shield final to Commercials; it was a great achievement to reach the final as the team had only came together for championship.

The good work continues at juvenile level with all our teams continuing to thrive.

New members are always welcome to any of our teams, no experience necessary.

Our adult hurlers are looking for a manger; if you are interested, please contact pro.eringobragh. dublin@gaa.ie.

Our adult football team and 2017 championship semifinalists are now looking for new players for the 2018 season. All newcomers welcome.

Contact George Burke at 0879709795 or email georgejburke@eircom.net.

Our nursery (Little Green Machine) continues every Saturday morning from 11.30am to 12.45pm and Tuesday evening from 6-7pm in Phibblestown hall.

Please contact Donal Quinn on 086 380 1621 for further details.

Please note our AGM will take place in our clubhouse on Wednesday, November 29.

We would welcome and encourage all members wishing to help drive the club forward in 2018 to take this opportunity to become members of our various executive committees or take up one of the other available positions within the club. For our club to continue and prosper we need more volunteers.

The deadline for receipt of Nominations and Motions

is midnight on Monday, November 6.

FINGALLIANS

U-21 championship: The hurlers have a home draw v St Jude’s this Saturday. The footballers were beaten 3-8 to 2-13 away to Clontarf.

U-15 ladies Division 3 shield final: Winners - our girls beat St Maurs on Saturday afternoon 2-9 to 1-6 in Rush.

Ladies football: After a midweek win v Ballyboden St Enda’s, the girls remain on top of Division 1 with two games to go.

Own your skills: GAA multi-sport camp will be taking place in our club over the Halloween break (Wednesday, November 1 to Friday, November 3). The camp is for boys and girls aged four to 11 years and takes place from 9am to 2pm each day. Registration at the academy from 10am this Saturday.

Academy: Our four to six-year-old boys and girls goes ahead as normal on

Halloween weekend from 10-11.30am.

Car Park: Minimum speed, unauthorised parking in disability zones and following the right directions is most important. Certain members are currently breaching health and safety protocols.

Club shop: The shop will close on December 9. Last orders for Christmas stock is November 25.

Halloween Cake Sale: This Saturday from 9.30am to 12.30pm, there will be a cake sale in the main hall during the academy.

AGM: This year, the hall will host our AGM on Thursday, November 16 at 9pm (further details and viewing times of accounts to follow).

GYM – October ’17: The opening times for the month are as follows outside of the 11 scheduled classes each week: Monday: 7- 8.30pm, Tuesday: 5.30-7.30pm, Wednesday: 6-9.30pm, Thursday: 6-7pm, Friday: 5.30-7.30pm, Saturday: 2-5pm and closed on Sunday.

Fancy dress party on

Saturday, October 28: A spooktacular fancy dress night of boos, booze, prizes and cheer. Have you got your ticket to join in the craic? It’s for a great cause so get the date in your diary and your ticket too. (€10 each). This is in aid of the Feile camogie team 2018.

Lotto: Numbers were 4, 15, 19, 25 and 30. We had three winners: Barbara Harris, Catherine Russell and Gary McCallion. The jackpot this Tuesday is €2,052.

Fingallians extends deepest sympathy to the family of Paul O’Toole on the death of his father Fergus.

Ar dheis De go raibh a hAnam dilis.

GARDA WESTMANSTOWN

GREAT end of season week for both the ladies and men’s teams with two cups won last weekend.

The ladies won their cup final at Westmanstown on Sunday afternoon against St Peregrine’s by one point in a

26 October 2017 NORTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 39

GAZETTE

IMPACT OF THE COUNTY’S RUN TO ALL-IRELAND SUCCESS HURLING LEAGUE FINAL

Dublin’s future it really goes to show the strength in depth in the team.”

Davey feels past disappointments made the victory over Mayo much sweeter, especially when

it came in front of the biggest crowd for a women’s sporting event this year.

“To be in the All-Ireland final for the last three years in a row, and for the result not to go your way,

is absolutely devastating after all the hard work you have put in. I think that shows the character in the team; instead of throwing in the towel, we came back stronger again

P hilly McMahon, Pddy Andrews and Eoghan O’Donnell were in Holy Spirit BNS in at an AIG Heroes event. Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

hard fought encounter on a score line of 3-7 to 1-12.

The Tom Langan Memorial Cup Police Tournament was played in Belfast over the weekend with victories over NYPD and PSNI in the final on Saturday. Well done to all involved in both victories.

The minor ladies also contributed to a great weekend winning their shield competition in great style.

The U-14 hurlers won away at St Anne’s by 4-9 to 3-8 and the U-12 hurlers won away at Clontarf by 4-3 to 1-2.

Two important dates coming up are the club AGM on Monday, November 20 – with motions and nominations to the secretary before October 30 – and the club’s gala dinner and awards night on Friday, December 1.

SKERRIES HARPS CONGRATULATIONS to our minor ladies team and management on their Division 4 championship final victory over Beann Eadair on Saturday.

this year.

“The atmosphere was unbelievable. When we went down onto the pitch, the sound was deafening. We’ve played in a lot of finals before but there was something a bit different [happening] this year. To be a ladies’ player and getting support like that has been absolutely amazing.”

Davey also enjoyed success at club level this year, with Skerries Harps winning their league to secure back to back promotions and book a place in division 2 of women’s football next year.

“I think getting into division 2 was definitely something we needed to do because we are in the intermediate championship.

“We have a very young side and there is great talent within the team so hopefully we can continue to build on that over the next few years.”

Brigid’s denied AHL1 title by Boden AFTER the disappointment of a quarter-final end to their Dublin senior hurling championship runs at the quarter-final stage, Ballyboden St Enda’s and St Brigid’s were both seeking a positive end to their 2017 campaigns.

The former prevailed 0-23 to 1-12 at O’Toole Park to land the AHL Division 1 crown last Sunday. Quickest from the traps were the Boden men and, within a minute, Conal Keaney had pointed from out the wing to set the tone. Brigid’s Paul Winters levelled from a free but Boden were to run up a first half lead of 0-12 to 0-4 with James Madden landing a point while Keaney and Paul Ryan – with his first of ten scores – stretched out a lead they never looked like relinquishing.

Four Ryan frees, countering scores from John O’Loughlin, put Boden well clear. The second half lacked the fluency of the first thirty, Brigid’s now abandoning their earlier strategy of using county man Darragh Plunkett as a sweeper. Opportunities did come Boden’s way and Conor Robinson and Niall McMorrow looked sharp and bagged a brace each.

David Curtin added to the tally, after good graft by Conor Dooley. Dooley was also feeding Niall Ryan and he shot two quick-fire points. Brigid’s kept battling and were rewarded with points from Johnny McGuirk, O’Loughlin, and Cian O’Sullivan, but they had to wait until the second minute of injury time for the goal they craved, Murphy the provider.

Paul Ryan continued his scoring, maintaining a hundred percent record from frees with arguably the score of the day, an eighty yard arrow that faded in off a strengthening crosswind, completing a 0-23 to 1-12 win.

Picture: Eamon O’Sullivan

CLUB NOTICEBOARD Well done also to the Moriarty SuperValu sponsored U-16 hurlers who won the Division 2 hurling league.

Sunday was a busy day at the club with two juvenile LGFA finals contested.

Congrats to our Stacks Pharmacy sponsored U-14 Division 6 girls who defeated Clontarf in the championship cup final, followed by our U-16 girls who overcame Sylvester’s in the Division 2 shield final.

Lots of new silverware for the trophy cabinet!.

See full results on www. skerriesharps.ie/results.

Upcoming fixtures: Sunday - minor football B shield quarter-final vs St Anne’s at 11am on the main pitch. See full fixture details on www.skerriesharps.ie/ fixtures Our club Zingo allows us to accomplish so much as a club, Thanks to all those who play every week.

Zingo Result 7-4-2-3-1-5-6.

No jackpot winner. Jackpot now a fantastic €6,500. Draw next Bank Holiday Sunday at

6pm. How do you win? You buy a ticket. You can play online at skerriesharps.ie and follow the links. Envelopes only €2 or 3 for €5.

Academy does not take place this coming Bank Holiday week (Saturday, October 28) - weekly sessions will recommence on Saturday, November 4 from 10-11.30am.

Tea/coffee will be available upstairs in the clubhouse and the club shop will be open.

Reminder to all that the club car park is closed during the academy for health and safety reasons. Drop off only.

Upcoming diary date: Friday, October 27 at 8pm club social and poker night.

All welcome to what promises to be a great night.

Are you looking for somewhere to hold your Christmas Party? The clubhouse is available for functions - contact Pat 087 2505479/Joanne 0864058523.

ST BRIGID’S

NURSERY takes place every

Saturday from 9.30 to 11am with all four to seven year olds very welcome.

Disco for 11 to 13 year olds on Friday from 8 to 11pm.

Make sure to keep up with all our news on our club app or via the website www. stbrigidsgaa.com St Brigid’s Coaching Community is excited to welcome current Dublin selector Declan Darcy to St Brigids on Monday, November 6 at 8.30pm to talk to our coaches or any member interested in coaching about his experience in managing, training and coaching teams at the highest level and is an inspirational coach and manager of underage teams.

The senior hurlers have had a great season, reaching the AHL1 league final, unfortunately losing out to a stronger Ballyboden on Sunday.

Congratulations to all of the underage ladies football teams who played their finals on Saturday and Sunday last.

Well done to the U-21 footballers who overcame Ballinteer St John’s by 2-14 to

0-13 in their opening game of the campaign.

The U-21 hurlers have a bye this weekend and head straight for the semi-final on the next fixture date.

There was no lotto jackpot winner last week and the lotto draw this week will be in Russell Park on Thursday, October 26 with the jackpot now €6,000.

Thank you very much to everyone who supports St Brigid’s club lotto and to our brilliant lotto committee.

ST FINIAN’S

CONGRATULATIONS to the U-15 boys team who won the hurling championship shield final versus Ballyboden St Enda’s in Cherryfield on Sunday.

Hard luck to the U-15 LGFA team who were beaten

by Lucan Sarsfields in the championship final in Rush.

They battled very bravely in atrocious conditions.

The club is very proud of the achievements of both the U-15s boys hurling and U-15

LGFA teams this weekend.

Well done to the AHL9 team who beat Realt Dearg at home on Sunday with a hat trick of goals from Ian Fahy while Packie Dunne, Ian Moriarty and Conor Collier were all prominent.

Please note that there will be no nursery and academy on Saturday, October 20, the Bank Holiday weekend, but they will resume at the normal times 10am and 11:30am respectively on Saturday, November 5.

The coffee shop and club shop are also closed on Saturday, October 29 but they will reopen on Saturday, November 5 from 10am to 1pm.

A reminder that the club is holding a foundation level coaching course on Wednesday, November 8 and 15 from 7pm to 9pm in the Community Centre.

Please note that the course is spread over the two dates.

Contact Paul Lyons on 087 176 1302 to book a place. Early booking is advisable as places are limited.

A reminder also that the

club AGM will take place on Thursday, November 16 at 9pm in the clubhouse. This is the members chance to have their say in how the club is run and managed.

There are aerobics and fitness classes taking place in the clubhouse activity room on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings. For further details, please contact Bernie at 085 135 9766.

The club lotto jackpot on October 20 was €3,400 and the numbers drawn were 8, 9, 21 and 23. There was no winner.

Lucky dip winners of €40 were Robert Szcyzgielski, Pat Colgan, Tom Kinsella and Aidan Boyd. Next week’s jackpot is €3,500.

The club bingo takes place this and every Friday upstairs in Peacocks at 8.30pm. The jackpot is €950.

If you would like to be kept up to date with the latest news from St Finian’s GAA Club, please send your email address to pro. stfiniansswords.dublin@ gaa.ie.

40 DUBLIN GAZETTE  NORTH 26 October 2017