DublinGazette JAN 30 - FEB 5, 2020
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THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE DUN LAOGHAIRE-RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL AREA
177 cases of abuse recorded at facility GARY IBBOTSON
RUGBY:
Ireland Club XV callups for Old Wesley duo. SEE P32
South Edition
A GLASTHULE care centre that treats people with disabilities failed 10 of 19 regulations inspections, according to a recent Hiqa report. Published by the health authority last week, the inspection of the St John of God centre occurred in September, following an initial inspection that took place in June.
In one incident, it was found that a patient experienced 89 cases of abuse from January to September last year. Overall, 177 incidents of abuse were recorded in 2019. According to the report, some of the factors that contributed to the abuse “included some members of staff not completing training or refresher training in the area of behaviour support, and the high numbers of relief staff members
employed in the centre”. Among the 10 failed regulations were staffing, general welfare and development, complaints procedure, risk management procedures, residents’ rights, fire precautions and protection The exhaustive Hiqa report highlighted St John of God Glasthule’s failure in “supporting residents with behaviours of distress”. SEE FULL STORY ON PAGE 2
POLSKA GAZETA
Check out the first of our new section for the Polish community as we speak to the new Polish Ambassador SEE PAGE 26
2 DUBLIN GAZETTE SOUTH 30 January 2020
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This model was happy to meet a four-legged friend, with many other dogs in need of a caring owner
Help adorable dogs find a loving home In a report released by HIQA, it was found that factors contributing to the abuse “included some members of staff not completing training or refresher training in the area of behaviour support”
HIQA report details St John of God failures GARY IBBOTSON
gibbotson@dublingazette.com
A HIQA report on the St John of God centre in Glasthule found that the centre was non-compliant on 10 of the 19 regulations inspected – with one patient experiencing 89 abusive incidents from January to September last year. The centre was the subject of a risk-based inspection in June, with a following inspection occurring in September. In a report released by HIQA last week, it was found that factors contributing to the abuse “included some members of staff not completing training or refresher training in the area of behaviour support, and the high numbers of relief staff members employed in the centre”. The report highlighted St John of God Glasthule’s failure in “supporting residents with behaviours of distress”. Some of the failed 10 regulations include
staffing, general welfare and development, complaints procedure, risk management procedures, residents’ rights, fire precautions and protection. The report shows that some residents were not experiencing a good quality of life, and were not protected from experiencing abuse by management and staff. Furthermore, due to the unreliability of a response from the regis-
t h e i n s p e c to r fo u n d that there was limited freedom for exercising choice and control in their daily lives.” The inspector also found that the registered provider had not put in place the correct provisions that respected the disabilities which some residents live with. “While reviewing how the rights of residents were protected in the centre, the inspector found that [the]
tered provider to these abuse claims, residents continued to experience mis-treatment, the report found. According to the report: “As a result of the frequency and significant number of safeguarding incidents experienced by residents,
registered provider had failed to ensure that the dignity of residents was respected at all times.” Although a review of safeguarding measures found that abusive incidents were in the ‘lowerrisk categories’, the frequency of the reported incidents were however
“
Although a review of safeguarding measures found that abusive incidents were in the ‘lower-risk categories’, the frequency of the reported incidents were “significant”
“significant”. The report says that 177 incidents of abuse were recorded in 2019. Some of these incidents include aggressive behaviour, shouting and the use of insulting language towards residents “which were a consequence of behaviours of the distress of other residents”. The inspector says that this matter had been noted in the June 2019 inspection, but protocols to address the issue had not been implemented. The report notes: “The inspector reviewed the governance and management arrangements in place in the centre and found that the governance systems employed did not ensure that service delivery was safe, of a high standard, and appropriate to residents’ needs. “While the registered provider was aware of the areas of non-compliance with the regulations, the inspector found that appropriate actions had not been taken to ensure that residents were protected and services of a satisfactory standard were provided.”
DUNDRUM Town Centre (DTC) and the DSPCA are teaming up to host a DSPCA Lonely Paws event, taking place in the centre from February 8 to 16. According to the DSPCA, demand for pets in Ireland is as high as ever, and DTC and the DSPCA are now offering people the chance to come and say hello to a few furry friends looking for a new home. The DSPCA will be making the initial matches either via the profiles displayed on Level 1 in the centre, or at the adoption parades on Saturday 8, Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 of February between noon and 4pm in the Town Square. If you would like to bring one of the dogs home permanently, and the DSPCA are happy with the arrangement, they will take you through the next steps in the adoption process.
Marking a Top author big protest celebrates milestone turning 90 DUNDRUM Climate Vigil, a group advocating for government action on the current climate crisis, will mark 40 weeks of protesting at the end of January. Founding member of the group, Wendy Cox says its numbers are growing and the group is encouraged by the inclusion of climate action protocols in many general election candidates’ manifestos. On January 17, group members say they were “delighted” to welcome three local clergymen: Fr John Bracken of Holy Cross Parish, Reverend Stephen Taylor of Dundrum Methodist Church, and Reverend Canon Robert Warren, Rector of Taney Parish. Cox said: “We really appreciate the support [of] local churches and parishioners for our work.” As General Election 2020 approaches, the vigil group has endorsed the recentlylaunched national One Future Ireland campaign.
JENNIFER Johnston, an awardwinning author and novelist, recently celebrated her 90th birthday at DLR Lexicon library in Dun Laoghaire – as an exhibition of her life and work was officially opened. Born in Dublin before moving to Derry, Johnston has since moved to Dun Laoghaire and is a member of Aosdána, an exclusive group of Irish artists and writers. The opening of the exhibition was attended by Johnston’s sons, Paddy and Malachi, daughters Sarah and Lucy, and grandson Attikos Lemos Smyth Some of Johnston’s published works include How Many Miles to Babylon?, The Gates, Two Moons, and her most recent work, Naming the Stars Johnston was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Irish Book Awards in 2012, and received the Whitbread Book Award for The Old Jest in 1979. See gallery on Page 8.
30 January 2020 SOUTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 3
CULTURE: ‘YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE BE FROM IRELAND TO FIND THIS FILM FUNNY’
Trio of ‘grannies on the run’ could lead film director Max to big things GARY IBBOTSON
A FINAL year student at IADT Dun Laoghaire, who last year won a prestigious award at the Lake Como Film Festival, has recently finished directing one of his “biggest films”, to date. Stillorgan man Max Barry says his film, Post Love, is “a heart-warming comedy that follows three elderly women who rob post offices along the west coast of Ireland in order to break free from their mundane lifestyle”. With the film being shot between January 13 and 20, Barry says it was
a “crazy week” as the crew travelled between Carnew, Newtownmountkennedy and rural parts of western Ireland. On the first leg of the journey in Carnew, Barry says the crew caused a bit of a stir in the local chipper while trying to film. Rumours had spread around the town that Ed Sheeran was involved. However, Barry says the town welcomed them “with open arms” and it was “an honour to be working in such a beautiful location”. To fund the film, Barry saved €6,000 over four
years while studying at college and the movie will ultimately play a role in his final grade. When describing the film, Barry says it has the “classic Irish humour of Father Ted or Young Offenders, but with a Hollywood feel – you don’t have to be from Ireland to find this film funny”. Although made with a limited budget, Barry and his team aim to have the film premiere at the National Film School of Ireland in May before doing the festival circuit in the Summer months. The filming of Post Love
Above: Three post office-robbing Irish grannies plot their next move in a scene being filmed in director Max Barry’s (right) latest film, Post Love; (above) the principal cast share a laugh between filming
follows on from Barry’s success at the Lake Como Film Festival last July. Barry, producer Erik Scarsella and head cameraman Tiernan O’Rourke were selected to go to Lake
Como and take part in the Filmlakers contest, as part of the larger festival. The trio, alongside seven other teams from Italy and abroad, were given one week to produce
and direct a short film set in one district of Como. Given the mountain town of Civiglio to film in, the trio created Benito, a film about an elderly old man looking for love but
consistently coming up short. The contingent ultimately won both top prizes at the contest – winning the jury vote and audience award.
4 DUBLIN GAZETTE SOUTH 30 January 2020
TRANSPORT: ‘RAISING THE COSTS WILL JUST HARM GREEN POLICIES’, SAY SOME
Councillors to vote against increasing Dart parking costs GARY IBBOTSON
RESIDENTS of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown have until January 31 to submit a motion on the council’s motion to increase parking costs at Dart stations by 100%. The motion also includes the increase in price of on-street car parking by 33%, and a slight increase in the price of residents’ permits. The motion was brought forward by local representatives from Labour, the Green Party, and Fianna Fail, and was originally discussed at the Dundrum Area Committee meeting on December 2. Cllr Denis O’Callaghan (Lab) said at the time that “a review of all parking
charges in the county is due to commence shortly”. He added: “This will involve the draft review of parking by-laws going out to public consultation in the first instance, with a report coming back to the elected members. “All elected councillors are obliged to consider the report of the [council] chief executive when presented to the council following [a] public consultation [process] before finally making their decision. “For any councillor to do otherwise, in my opinion, is in their duty to the citizens who elected them,” he said. Fine Gael and People Before Profit councillors have announced they will be voting against the
increase, when the motion appears before the council. Councillor for Stillorgan, John Kennedy (FG) said: “In this era of promoting more sustainable transport, we should be making it more cost-effective for commuters to use public transport ... rather than adding an extra costs impediment. “This increase serves to incentivise longer driving distances, leading to the likelihood of extra traffic jams in the years ahead, with a net impact on air quality.” Cllr Maeve O’Connell (FG) also says she “will be voting against increases in the upcoming meeting”. She added: “Increased parking charges do not reduce car journeys – it
Picture:Google Maps Killiney Dart Station – just one of a number that could see parking costs soon rise
increases them, as people drive to areas of free parking, bypassing the areas where parking is charged. “[This leads to them] ironically increasing emissions as a result, and negatively impacting air quality.
“It is not a Green initiative, and damages the credibility of climate change polices, which has made it increasingly difficult to secure support for the essential changes to our lifestyles. “DLRCC are a leading
local authority in climate change action,” said Cllr O’Connell. Under the proposed increases, parking at Dart stations will rise from €3 for a day to €6, with hourly street parking up by 33% from €1.50 an hour to €2.
Praise as historical records available online to the public ALL historical records, such as birth registers, marriage records and death certificates from 1845 to 1944, are now available online to members of the public. These are in addition to the death register records being made available for 1969. Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Josepha Madigan said: “This annual release of birth, marriage and death register data by the Civil Registration Service is part of an ongoing partnership between my department and the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. “The aim is to make all of these historic records freely available and easily accessible to all members
of the public, both at home and throughout our diaspora”. The complete records that are now available online include birth register records from 1864 to 1919, marriage register records from 1845 to 1944, and death register records from 1878 to 1969. Referencing her department’s connection to the project, as it has responsibility for the Civil Registration Service, Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection Regina Doherty said: “I am delighted to see the completion of the project to make all historical civil marriage register records available for public access [via https://www.irishgenealogy.ie/en/]. “The marriages project has taken a number of
years to complete, given the condition of some of the older records, but all historic marriages are now accessible online for the first time. “This is a great achievement for the Civil Registration Service, and ensures the preservation of these valuable records in digital format for the future.” Civil marriage registration began in Ireland in 1845, with earlier marriage records registered by church bodies also available on the website. Minister Doherty said: “The site is continuously being improved and enriched with very valuable records. “It is indeed a rich tapestry of Irish history on a very accessible platform, and is available for all to use for free.”
FASTNews Ross calls for urgent focus over pool
FOLLOWING last week’s story on Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council’s final report on the proposed development of Glenalbyn Swimming Pool, Minister Shane Ross is calling on Kilmacud Crokes to make an urgent decision on the matter. He said: “Now that the mediation process has ended and Kilmacud Crokes are in possession of the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council report, I would urge their members to meet and [help get] the long-delayed project the green light. “The people of Stillorgan, Mount Merrion and environs have been without their local pool for far too long. “The negative effects that the loss of the pool has had on the local community are increasing daily. “The time for talking is over. Decisions and action are now needed.”
Preliminary clubhouse plan drawn up AT THIS week’s Dundrum Area Committee meeting, it was revealed that a preliminary design of a new clubhouse at Stonebridge Park, Shankill has been drawn up. Responding to a question from Clr Denis O’Callaghan (Lab) regarding the lack of changing facilities in the park, the council’s chief executive said the development is a “pipeline project”. They added: “As outlined in the report of the Programme of Capital Projects 2019-2021, the Stonebridge Road Changing Rooms is a pipeline project and funding is currently not available to progress this. “[The council’s] Parks Department have recently had a meeting with the clubs using the playing facilities in Stonebridge Road, and a list of requirements has been provided. “A preliminary design of the building is being prepared ... so that when funding becomes available, the project can proceed without delay.”
30 January 2020 SOUTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 5
ENVIRONMENT: PUSH TO GET BLACKROCK-SANDYCOVE LINK
Hundreds of people petition for trial coastal cycle route GARY IBBOTSON
Rescue work isn’t so ruff for hapless dog’s rescuers LAST week, the Dun Laoghaire branch of the Irish Coast Guard, along with Dun Laoghaire RNLI, were called to rescue a dog who had fallen off the East Pier of the harbour. Lola, a 10-year-old Shetland, had fallen off the pier and onto rocks 14 feet below and was unable to get free. According to the Coast Guard, both teams were tasked to the incident as the tide was incoming, and also to reduce the chance of the owner putting themselves in danger.
In a statement, the Coast Guard said: “Thankfully the lucky dog was recovered, without any injuries, and brought back to the safety of the RNLI station and its very thankful owner. “Well done to all, and to the owner for making the right decision.” The RNLI and Coast Guard urge people to not risk their own safety if a pet or loved one gets into difficulty in or near the water. You can dial 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.
AN ONLINE petition calling for the construction of a trial cycle route from Blackrock to Sandycove has garnered more than 600 signatures. According to its description, the petition is calling for an implementation of a trial “segregated cycle route along the coast from Blackrock to Sandycove for one year”. It added: “Create one way for traffic along the coast all the way from Blackrock to Sandycove. “This will allow people to cycle both ways on the sea side of the road. It should connect with the cycleway on the Blackrock bypass in order to connect with the schools. “Use [safety measures
such as specific cycle lane] wands and armadillos to close off one lane of the street to provide a safe cycling environment.” Outlining why this corridor is needed, the petition says: “We need a safe place for our children and adults to cycle on the road for commuting to school and work. “This would also provide for recreational cycling, and for people to enjoy the coast in a safe and peaceful manner. “At the moment, there is no continuous safe cycling [route] for people in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown (DLR). “Most people currently don’t cycle due to the dangerous nature of the roads in DLR and this could provide an impetus for cycling
Map shows the cycle route from Blackrock to Sandycove that petitioners have called for
with a link all the way from Booterstown to Sandycove. “There’s been talk of a cycleway along the coast for more than 20 years and still no sign of it.” Since 2002, the Sutton to Sandycove group has been advocating for a 22km
cycle lane from Sutton to Sandycove, “linking and upgrading, where appropriate, existing walkways and cycleways”. Commenting on the petition, Cllr Ossian Smyth (GP) said: “Last year, the council was approved for €17.5m in funding from
the National Transport Authority to build a seafront promenade and cycle path to run from Dun Laoghaire to Blackrock and Booterstown. “A planning application is being prepared which will go to An Bord Pleanala for approval.”
6 DUBLIN GAZETTE SOUTH 30 January 2020
GALLERIES OF THE WEEK
Lisa McGowan celebrates 100K followers. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon
Lisa goes live with Launch Party
Bernadine Grogan and Lisa McGowan
Katherine Taylor and Linda Simpson
L
ISA Mc Gowan, AKA Lisa’s Lust List, launched her very own website on Friday, January 25 in the The Hyatt Centric in The Liberties. Surrounded by followers, her loyal brands, family and friends, Lisa threw a party to remember. Lisa also reached 100k followers on Instagram on the same night so a double celebration was had by all.
Eliska McAndrew, Katie Geoghegan, Lisa McGowan, Mandy Maher, Dearbhla Silke and Lucy Slevin
Siobhan Dolan and Tara Dolan Brenda McCaffery and Clare O’Kane
Orla and Michelle Dardis
Jaela Burke, Lisa McGowan and Michelle Hardy
Eliska McAndrew and Katie Geoghegan
Judy Ryan and Annette Kelly
30 January 2020 SOUTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 7
FASTNews ‘Great sadness’ as Bailey, FG, drops out WITH the general election little over a week away, the campaign race is entering the final straight. In Dun Laoghaire, former Fine Gael TD Maria Bailey (right) announced she was not going to run as an Independent candidate, confirming her decision in a statement published online. It read: “I wish to confirm that I will not be seeking re-election to Dail Eireann … It is with great sadness, that after 16 years as an elected representative in Dun Laoghaire, I will not be standing in this election. “This is a role that I have been truly passionate, proud and humbled by.” Deputy Bailey was the centre of controversy last year after it was revealed she filed a lawsuit against the Dean Hotel after she fell off a swing. Sinead Gibney, of the Social Democrats, announced she was pulling her candidacy from the Dun Laoghaire ticket, while columnist John Waters announced he’s running in the constituency as an Independent candidate.
Psychiatrists warn about leaflets being distributed THE College of Psychiatrists Ireland are warning the public to be cautious of information being distributed regarding antipsychotic medicines. Leaflets on anti-psychotic medicines are being put through letterboxes in the capital by Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), a group believed to be linked with The Church of Scientology. In issuing the warning, the College of Psychiatrists of Ireland says that the information within the leaflets is inaccurate and “potentially harmful”. The CCHR was co-founded in 1969 by the Church of Scientology and Professor of Psychiatry, Dr Thomas Szasz. The Health Service Executive have also issued a caution regarding the leaflets. It is understood that the leaflets are primarily being distributed in South Dublin. The CCHR defended its pamphlet and accused the HSE and College of Psychiatrists of being misleading in a statement.
COMMUNITY: SPATE OF ANTI-SOCIAL INCIDENTS PROMPT REVIEW
Council set to examine Kilboggett Park access GARY IBBOTSON
DUN Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s chief executive has announced that a review is under way of the 17 access points into Kilbogget Park, following multiple incidents of antisocial behaviour. At the recent Dundrum Area Committee meeting, the council’s chief executive, Philomena Poole, said the local authority “will liaise with the Local Community Garda during this review and discuss options in order to make the park more secure”. The review comes after joyriders destroyed playing pitches in the park at the start of the year, with
Part of the recent damage at Kilbogget Park
further incidents at the park also occurring in recent weeks. Poole said: “Unfortunately, just after Christmas, an unauthorised vehicle gained access to the pitches in Kilbogget Park via the car park, just behind the GAA goals.
“Damage was sustained to three pitches. Repairs to same are under way. “The area where access was gained has since been secured with additional bollards. Prior to this, there has been only one other instance of vehicles gaining access to the park, and
this was last Halloween when a gate was unfortunately mistakenly left unlocked. “It is important, that while this review is carried out, we retain the need to provide access for all park users. “This includes everyone from able-bodied members of the public, parents with double buggies, cyclists and parks users who may have mobility issues and require the use of a wheelchair or other mobile vehicle. “While providing such unimpeded access for all, it can unfortunately allow other unauthorised vehicles, such a scramblers and quads, access to the park.” In addition to the
review, Cllr Hugh Lewis (PBP) has filed a motion with the counc il to review the ongoing problems with park – which includes a lack of bins and the increase of dumping of dog waste. Cllr Lewis says that anti-social behaviour “along with many others [issues] has been raised with me over the past several weeks”. He added: “I have entered all of these issues to be discussed and voted on collectively.” Cllr Lewis says that he would like to see the introduction of “bins at entrance points and extra signage throughout the park that will decrease the dumping of dog faeces”.
Rare spider sighting may be the first of its kind in Ireland GARY IBBOTSON
A RARE Red-Bellied Jumping Spider has been spotted in a garden in south Dublin – and it’s possibly the first of its kind in Ireland. The male spider – also known by its official name, Philaeus Chrysops – was noticed by a gardener in Monkstown and is identifiable by its distinctive red abdomen. Usually found in warmer climates such as southern Europe, South Korea and the United States, it is currently unknown how the spider made its way to Ireland but, fortunately, it is harm-
Say hello to Philaeus Chrysops – AKA a Red-Bellied Jumping Spider
less to humans. Dr Michel Dugon of Venom Systems Laboratory in NUI Galway said: “I know that the species has been spotted occasionally in the UK for the past 15 years, but I am not aware of any prior sighting in
Ireland.” The Red-Bellied Jumping Spider is usually 7-12mm long, with males having a bright red stomach and females having an orangebrown abdomen. The species also has the ability to spin web into the air from their torso, which can carry them for thousands of miles. Collie Ennis, a Zoology research associate at Trinity College Dublin, told TheJournal.ie, that the Philaeus Chrysops could become a resident of the country soon, given Ireland’s warming climate. He said: “Lots of invertebrates
that couldn’t survive in the UK and Ireland are slowly moving up north from Europe as the habitat becomes warmer. “Of course, this is going to be a recurring issue because, as the climate of the country warms, we are going to see many more new species of animals take up residence in Ireland, especially invertebrates, such as spiders, which can easily travel in goods and shipping. “It will be interesting to see what effect this species could have on our native invertebrates.”
8 DUBLIN GAZETTE SOUTH 30 January 2020
GALLERIES OF THE WEEK
Hilda Quinn, Anne Fitzsimon and Carinna Lonergan
Gail Gilliland, Keith Clarke and Eithne Bowen
Jennifer Johnston flanked by her sons and daughters and joined by one of her grandchildren. Pictures: Peter Cavanagh
Exhibition marks Jennifer Johnston’s 90th birthday A
Sarah Webb, Martina Devlin and Marie Heaney
WARD-winning author Jennifer Johnston, who recently turned 90, marked her birthday at DLR Lexicon library in Dún Laoghaire with the opening of an exhibition on her life and work. The opening of the exhibition was attended by Ms Johnston’s sons Paddy and Malachi, daughters Sarah and Lucy, and grandson Attikos Lemos Smyth. Last year Jennifer donated her
Christine Dwyer-Hickey, Audrey Magee, Nell Ryan, Sinéad Mac Aodha and Denis Hickey
writing desk and nearly 2,000 of her books to dlr Libraries. The collection is housed in DLR Lexicon. Ms Johnston has won a number of awards for her writing, including the Whitbread Book Award for The Old Jest in 1979 and a Lifetime Achievement prize from the Irish Book Awards in 2012. The Old Jest was later made into a film called The Dawning, starring Anthony Hopkins.
Ingrid Craigie and Geraldine Plunkett
Richard Gordon, John Gilliland and Scott Jungmann
Lucinda Jacob and Jo Callinan
30 January 2020 SOUTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 9
CAMPAIGN: CONSULTANT GROUP PUT FORWARD SEVERAL POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS TO ADOPT
Appeal to Minister for Health to ‘put patients first’ in crisis KEAVY O’SULLIVAN
IN RECENT talks with Minister for Health Simon Harris, the Irish Hospital Consultant Association (IHCA) has appealed for him to “put politics aside and patients first”. They presented a number of workable solutions to address the overwhelming public hospital capacity deficits which are causing unacceptable waiting lists and trolley crisis. The IHCA represents more than 95% of Ireland’s hospital consul-
FASTNews Enter now for the SMEDIA 2020 awards THE National Student Media Awards have announced that they will be opening for entries on March 2, with the awards ceremony to be held in the Aviva on April 22. The National Student Media Awards (the SMEDIAs) celebrate students for their work in the areas of print, photography, blogging, radio, TV, film or animation. There are also four Irish language categories. The opening date for entries is on March 2, with the closing date on March 19. Information on categories and how to enter is available from Oxygen.ie, or on the SMEDIAs Facebook page.
tants, and urged the Minister to take decisive action to immediately end consultant pay discrimination, saying “it would be a game-changer in attracting consultants to work in public hospitals, and ensuring patients can access hospital care when they need it”. According to consultants, there are more than 500 unfilled permanent hospital consultant posts across Ireland’s public hospitals. These vacancies are recognised as the root cause of the long waiting times now experienced by patients,
and the trolley crisis in public hospitals. The IHCA identified the 2012 decision of the then Minister for Health Dr James Reilly (FG) regarding consultant pay as a contributing factor to today’s crisis, saying: “Patients have endured the adverse and severe impact of the government’s 2012 decision, which has driven hospital consultants away from our public hospitals to practise abroad and in private hospitals.” The IHCA representatives have also called on Minister Harris and the
consultant outpatient appointments and inpatient/day-care public hospital treatments. Speaking about the face-to-face talks more generally, Dr O’Hanlon said “Frontline hospital consultants appealed to Minister Harris to put politics aside and patients first, by committing to effective targets to deliver timely care to patients which at least match those in the [British] NHS. “The delivery of effective targets will require the implementation of practical workable solutions that the IHCA has recommended for years.”
‘Next government can end spiral of misery for families’
PADRAIG CONLON
INCREASING eligibility for a scheme for people at risk of losing their homes could end the “spiral of misery” for thousands of Dublin families. That is according to housing and homeless campaigner Fr Peter McVerry, who is calling for the Government’s mortgage to rent scheme to be made mandatory for banks when dealing with families in unsustainable debt. According to the latest figures, more than
5,400 family home loans are in arrears for two years or more across Dublin, while more than 240 mortgage to rent cases have either been completed or are being actively progressed. The scheme allows mortgage holders at risk of losing their homes to switch to paying a fair income-based affordable rent to their local authority while remaining in their current dwellings. Fr McVerry also called on the incoming government to increase the scheme’s eligibility crite-
Say ‘cello’ to a festival
SPIKE, Dublin’s alternative cello festival, returns for its fourth installation from Friday, February 7 to Sunday, February 9 in venues across Dublin. After the festival’s hugely successful and entertaining previous incarnations in 2017, 18 and 2019, the 2020 programme will present unique events with some of the most talented and exciting cello artists and friends from home and abroad. Taking place in Lost Lane, Hugh Lane Gallery, The Ark and Reformation over the weekend, events range from free to attend, to €35 tickets, with a range in between.
government to open up further public hospital beds and bring forward the delivery of additional beds from 2030 to 2025, which were promised under both the HSE Capacity Review 2018 and the National Development Plan. They are also calling on it to introduce and resource a maximum waiting time of four hours for patients presenting at emergency departments to be admitted, discharged, or transferred. They also want to introduce and resource a maximum waiting time of 18 weeks following a GP referral for
Fr Peter McVerry (right) with Paul Cunningham, chief executive, Home for Life – one of the groups advocating for a change in governmental policy over mortgage to rent schemes, in a bid to help tackle the housing crisis
ria so that a meaningful attempt can be made to solve many of the 27,000 cases where homeowners have been in arrears for at least two years. At present, there are 1,200 active cases in the mortgage to rent process nationwide, but Fr McVerry wants to see that number increased significantly this year. He said: “What this housing crisis needs right now is radical thinking. “Solutions won’t happen overnight, but if the will is there, then it can happen pretty quickly. “If the next government was serious about tackling this huge mortgage debt legacy from the past decade, it should make it illegal over the next three years to evict people without an offer of mortgage to rent. “However, the next government has to sit down and change the thresholds which limit the mortgage to rent scheme.” He added: “I am on record as saying that m a ny m o re fa m i l i e s should be included in this scheme, because it is the only way for many of them to resolve their current circumstances. “The stress and misery that people are enduring must be relieved, and there must be an immediate review of extend-
ing the mortgage to rent boundaries. “It saddens me to think that every week, there are thousands of homedwellers living in needless fear of a knock on
the door or a visit from the postman. “I would encourage them to engage with their local MABs [Money Advice and Budgeting Service] people, or their
lender, so that their cases can be dealt with. “If they do that, then they should be able to stay in their home if they pay a rent, like all local authority tenants.”
10 DUBLIN GAZETTE SOUTH 30 January 2020
GENERAL ELECTION 2020
CANDIDATES ADDRESS SOME OF
What candidates say CONTINUING on from last week’s initial focus, DUBLIN GAZETTE reached out to the confirmed candidates who will be campaigning in General Election 2020. We asked them all the same set of questions, to help inform you about where they stand on just some of the main issues of the day. Here is what the general election candidates had to say* – the following answers were from those who had responded by our print deadline this week. QUESTION 1: HEALTH How would you address the chronic problems that are prevalent in the Health Service?
QUESTION 4: ENVIRONMENT What is your stance on Climate Change? How green/accessible is your campaign?
QUESTION 2: HOUSING How would you address the chronic problems in the housing sector?
QUESTION 5: TRANSPORT Do you think Public Transport in your area is sufficient? What changes might you make?
QUESTION 3: EDUCATION What ways would you address education issues in your area at a Government level?
QUESTION 6: YOUR MESSAGE Why do you think people should vote for you?
(*Some answers may have been edited to account for space, as necessary.)
DUN LAOGHAIRE
DEPUTY RICHARD BOYD BARRETT, PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
Q1 END the two-tier system, establish a single-tier national health service. Abolish all out of pocket health and hospital charges. Recruit more health workers and pay them properly so that they can be retained. Increase spending on mental health services. Invest in staff for early assessment for children to get rid of waiting lists. Q2 Build public and affordable housing on public land. End the reliance on private landlords and schemes like HAP. Abolish tax breaks for property speculators and vulture funds. Introduce rent controls to make rents affordable and give tenants real security.
Q3 Reduce class sizes to no more than 20 per class. Restore pay equality for all teachers. Provide more SNAs based on children’s needs rather than quotas. Abolish all third level and post grad fees and increase student grants. Q4 We need radical action to move to a zero carbon economy by 2030. This requires passing our People Before Profit Bill to keep fossil fuel in the ground. Introduce free public transport and dramatically increase the bus and rail fleet. M a j o r i nve s t m e n t funding and grants for a national retrofit and home insulation programme. Invest in renewable energy resources. Q 5 T h e re a re n o t enough buses or Darts to meet demand. We need to increase the bus fleet by at least 500 buses. End the drive towards privatisaion to protect and enhance public service routes. [Create] more capacity in the Dart, and investment to properly maintain lifts to ensure disability access. Invest in a public bikes scheme. Q6 We have a long and consistent record of building active people-power movements to protect and
enhance local amenities and services.
CLLR CORMAC DEVLIN, FIANNA FAIL
Q1 IRELAND’S population is increasing and aging, especially so in Dun Laoghaire, where so many new homes are being built. We need investment in the health system that accounts for current and future demand. Q2 Local authorities, approved housing bodies and cooperatives have the capacity, land and local knowledge to progress schemes faster than centrally-controlled agencies. We need to support these organisations, not constrain them. Q3 Education is in crisis, from third level colleges falling in world rankings to early education facilities closing due to the high cost of insurance. Locally, parents are
sleeping out to secure places for their kids in some national schools. This isn’t good enough. I will continue to campaign for the Educate Together national school in Dun Laoghaire town and a permanent home for Gaelscoil Phadraig. Q4 Climate change is the most significant long-term threat to our economy and society. We must work locally, nationally and with our European partners to find just and sustainable solutions. The next government must redouble efforts by immediately establishing a national housing retrofit scheme, developing Green infrastructure, promoting sustainable transport and increasing afforestation across the country. Q5 The LUAS and DART are over capacity at rush hour. Thousands of new homes are being developed at Cherrywood and Shanganagh – this will increase demand further. We need to invest in public transport and Green infrastructure, such as segregated cycle tracks, if we are to reduce traffic on the roads and get the c ity moving again. Q6 I’ve a proven trackrecord as a public representative. If elected to represent Dun Laoghaire, I will prioritise policies that improve the quality of life for all our citizens.
DUBLIN RATHDOWN CLLR DEIRDRE CONROY, FIANNA FAIL (ABOVE, RIGHT)
Q1 WE NEED more medical staff and efficient management system. The system is not working. We need to encourage medical staff to return to Ireland by providing reli-
able income and affordable housing. Q2 As a planning specialist, I know that our planning legislation can be too restrictive on development. I will assess all the housing agencies and land development agency development to ascertain what is holding up our housing. Q3 I had planned a public meeting on Special Needs Education before the Taoiseach brought up the date for the general election. I will continue to work on this. I want to increase special needs education facilities in Dublin-Rathdown. The ratio of available places for children with ASD in South Dublin is 1:782, while the national average is 1:100. I wish to resolve this. Q4 I want to ensure carbon emissions are fundamentally reduced. A national plastic reduction [scheme] must be introduced. I don’t have big posters, or cars driving around increasing carbon, with my face on the car. I’m not delivering 40,000 ’newsletters’ with jargon – I put the information on social media. Q5 I have sought plans from the Department of Education and Bus Eireann for school bus systems throughout South Dublin, [but] no response yet. We must reduce cars, particularly school traffic, which causes traffic congestion. Dublin’s population
density growth and its need for affordable housing, signifies that a metro underground in Dublin south west is essential. Q6 I was asked to run for [the next] general election two months ago because of all the work I did for communities last year. I work to deadlines and deliver my responsibilities. [I’m asking for] a number-one vote, and I intend to get the necessary work done to make Dublin better.
DEPUTY CATHERINE MARTIN, GREEN PARTY
Q1 WE NEED to move towards a single-tier health system based on need rather than ability to pay. The cross-party Slaintecare report provides a strong vision of what we want to see for our health system. We n e e d to m ove beyond simply looking for sticking plaster solutions for the health service. Q2 We need substantial housing investment to tackle the housing and homelessness crisis. This has to be led by the state, through an ambitious programme of public housing built on public land. Strengthening rights for tenants by ending the use of sale as a reason for eviction would help stem the tide of people being made homeless. Q3 I would work for real equality, greater inclusivity and excellence in our education system in tackling the
crisis in third-level funding and huge inequalities of access and support for parents and children at primary and secondary level. Q4 My stance on climate change is that it is the biggest challenge facing us and our planet, full stop. Without real, quick, system-altering change, we are facing huge biodiversity loss across the globe, and enormous impacts on people, wildlife and our planet – we need to act now. Q5 I would reverse the overall transport budget from its current focus on roads to instead focus on public transport, while at the same time increasing investment in walking and cycling infrastructure. Wi t h o u t a d e q u a te alternative options, people will continue to be stuck in their cars, and our city will continue to gridlock. Q6 If you want Green, you need to vote Green, and I would be very grateful if voters would consider giving me their number-one vote on February 8 to keep a Green voice for Dublin-Rathdown in the Dail.
PATRICK NOONAN, INDEPENDENT
Q1 OUR mindset needs to view healthcare as an investment, not a cost. By investing in people up front, we can reduce costs over time, which can be pumped back into improving the health system. I’m also for decriminalising and legalising
30 January 2020 SOUTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 11
THE COUNTRY’S MAIN TALKING POINTS
GENERAL ELECTION 2020
about the big topics (with strict regulations) all drugs. I view this as a health problem, not a criminal one. P r o h i b i t i o n n eve r works, and all the data points to this as the only viable solution. Q2 My flagship policy is a universal basic income of €900/month for all 18+ citizens. This would help people save for a deposit. A rent freeze doesn’t go far enough as it legitimises the current prices in law. The price of all rental properties in a rent pressure zone should be impartially reviewed and reduced if needs be. I’d remove restrictions on how high we can build and increase property taxes on second/idle homes. I’m also calling for all TDs to divest their businesses to avoid conflicts of interest – this would include landlords. Q3 Pay teachers more. I’m also calling for full secularisation of schools. Q 4 I ’m t h e m o s t aggressive candidate in the country on climate change. I’m calling for 100% renewable electricity by 2030, [for the country to be] carbon neutral by 2040. I would mobilise the Defense Forces to join the fight, and much more. I’ve run a posterless campaign, and I’m planting trees to offset any paper used. Q5 I’m calling for 24/7 Dublin Bus and Luas [operations], and want free public transport for urban and commuter areas. [I also support] massive investment in more routes, and a worldclass cycling infrastructure. Q6 We are beyond local politics – the problems we face are national ones, which require a new thinking. See my 50-plus p o l i c i e s a t my s i te, https://patrick-noonan. com/.
Votes waiting to be counted ... There’s always a lot at stake in any general election, with 2020 being particularly important for the country’s future. Consider the candidates carefully, and ensure that your voice is represented by your precious vote ...
12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 30 January 2020
OPINION: UPCOMING EVENT PROMISES TO DO A BETTER JOB AT ADDRESSING STARK REALITY
Tune in to ‘The Real Debate’ for a meaningful national debate PADRAIG CONLON
FOLLOWING the decision by RTE to only include the leaders of two political parties on its TV Leaders Debate, an alternative debate is set to take place in Dublin. The Real Debate – a podcast/streaming event – will be available while the proposed Leaders Debate between Leo Varadkar and Micheal Martin is being broadcast next Tuesday night, February 4, and will feature a variety of opinions and views from across the political spectrum, including from journalists and podcasters. It’s been set up as a collaboration between several organisations, including Right2Homes, HomeOptions, with Dublin Gazette as a media partner. The Real Debate is offering “the other 52% of voters” a debate and will create opportunities for other voices and opinions to be shared. Moderator on the evening will be Donagh McKeown, who has many years’ experience as a radio presenter and producer with the BBC and various radio stations in Ireland, including Shannonside/Northern Sound, Downtown Radio, Mid 106, Townland Radio, and presently Belfast 89. Talking to Dublin Gazette ahead of next week’s debate, he said: “We are keen to engage with potential participants for the podcast, so do please reach out to the Facebook page, The Real Debate, for a chance to participate. “Follow our pre-event debate on the Facebook page, and/or develop your own local debate and feel free to share as we build our audience.” ‘Waltzing on borrowed time’ That’s the clarion call
from the founders of Homeoptions, taken from the title of a song by legendary Dublin folk singer/ songwriter Pete St John. Homeoptions spent 5-years trying to introduce legislation into Dáil Éireann, aiming to protect families in their homes, whilst at the same time also attempting to remove Vulture Funds from the Irish economy by offering the banks ethically-funded alternatives. These efforts were rejected out of hand by the bailed-out banks, with AIB rejecting a fully-funded €800m bid for its latest Portfolio of Distressed
“
of sitting Fianna Fail and Fine Gael TDs, with the exception of John McGuinness, Marc MacSharry, Eamon O Cuiv and Independents such as Mattie McGrath and Michael Fitzmaurice, sat on the fence while tens of thousands of families are getting thrown to the wolves.” Reilly said the “frustrating” journey began for Right2Homes in 2013 following the government’s introduction of The Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Bill. This legislation had been designed to help protect families caught up with distressed fam-
[The voters should] understand just how powerless most of these same TDs actually are when faced with the need to tackle housing, homelessness, wanton profiteering, vested interests and internal party politics
Family Home Loans (NPLs). Similar bids were also dismissed by PTSB and Ulster Bank. Speaking to Dublin Gazette ahead of The Real Debate, Homeoptions founder Brian Reilly said: “I think voters have an absolute right to know the depths of hypocrisy they are dealing with when heading to the polls on February 8. “[They should also] understand just how powerless most of these same TDs actually are when faced with the need to tackle housing, homelessness, wanton profiteering, vested interests and internal party politics. “Most of the current crop
ily home mortgages, but quickly becoming known as the “Eviction Bill”. Right2Homes had been established to help challenge the legitimacy of that Act, given its retrospective impact on distressed family home mortgages. Meetings were arranged with numerous TDs from all parties, and also some Independents, resulting in the idea of a “People’s Bill” which was then drafted for Right2Homes by the Master of the High Court, Edmund Honohan. Reilly says that after having encouraged the production of such a “People’s Bill”, the Fianna Fail parliamentary party, under the direction of
As an alternative to The Leaders Debate on RTE, The Real Debate – bringing together many disparate opinions and views – promises to offer a meaningful alternative view on the state of the nation, and our future. Housing will be an obvious area of concern – but what else will The Real Debate focus on? Tune in and see ...
Micheal Martin and his non-elected advisers, failed miserably to support the Bill, instead leaving it up to Kilkenny TD John McGuinness to introduce the resulting Affordable Housing and Fair Mortgage Bill 2018 as a Private Members Bill, which he did in 2018 (see illustration, above right). “ T h e hy p o c r i sy involved here, especially by Micheal Martin, can only be described as breathtaking,” said Reilly, on his first face-to-face meeting with the Fianna Fail leader. He said: “We had already spent an enormous amount of time producing the actual Bill itself, encouraged initially
by an internal FF working group led by Darragh O’Brien, incorporating changes along the way as suggested by various groups, including Fianna Fail, the Bills Office, the Ceann Comhairle’s Office and the Department of Finance. “Micheal Martin’s opening remarks at that first formal meeting were: ‘I won’t be bounced into supporting this Bill’ – an alarming statement, given that we were at that time almost eight years into a mounting housing and homelessness crisis. “Nothing has changed to this day; the crisis is demonstrably worse, and the man is simply not capable of radical change
– it’s clearly not in his DNA. “A number of leading FF deputies have since confirmed to us that, should Micheal Martin and his small cohort of non-elected advisors, somehow manage to win out on February 8, nothing of any significance will have changed when we all wake up to the reality on February 9. “The country will be left facing yet another five years of blind adherence to existing Fine Gael policies supporting banks, profiteering and vulture funds. “The time for radical change is now, so why can’t voters insist their politicians grow up and envisage the collec-
tive possibilities for real change?” asked Reilly. He made the point that with 45 of the 159 seats up for grabs in the capital, voters in the 11 constituencies of Dublin could possibly decide the makeup of the 33rd Dail. Reailly said: “A Coalition of the Willing is what’s now required, with more than 77% of the electorate currently not supporting Fine Gael, according to several published polls, mostly on foot of the worsening disasters in housing, health and overspending on state projects. “It’s definitely time for real change.” For further information, see The Real Debate Facebook page.
30 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13
STYLE: ADORABLY ACCESSIBLE
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MAGAZINE
LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS TAKE YOU ON A TOUR OF THE NEWS AND EVENTS ACROSS THE CITY AND COUNTY
EDUCATION | CELEBRATING A MUSIC COLLEGE’S LEGACY IN THE LIBERTIES
Pitching in to help support open day PADRAIG CONLON
A noteworthy group ... These talented musicians were delighted to help promote the opening day at BIMM Institute Dublin. Picture: Marc O’Sullivan
A DUBLIN college that helps musicians break into the music world held a very successful open day last weekend. Situated in the heart of Dublin 8, BIMM Institute Dublin (British and Irish Modern Music), has earned the reputation of being Ireland’s most connected music college. With two campuses located on Francis Street and The Coombe, BIMM opened their doors last Saturday, January 25, to showcase what students can expect when studying at the college. Guests had the opportunity to meet graduates who are currently shaping the music industry and successfully working as producers, session players, music therapists, lecturers, events managers, agents and promoters, to name but a few career paths. BIMM offers students a launch pad into the world of contemporary music through its undergraduate and post-graduate courses, including BA (Hons) Commercial Modern Music, and its newly launched MA in
Popular Music Practice, which will commence in September. Students also have access to master classes with many high-profile industry guests. Some former guests include The Edge, Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age), Hozier, John Grant, Danny O’Donoghue (The Script), Imelda May, Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers) and Neil Hannon. Some of Ireland’s most successful artists have walked through BIMM’s doors since it opened more than nine years ago, including Andrew Byrne (Hozier) and Imelda May. Since 2015, more than 600 students have graduated from the BA CMM, with more than 86% currently working in the music and creative arts industries. Re c e n t su c c e s s f u l graduates include Ciara O’Connor, who is currently touring around the US with international artist Dua Lipa as her backing vocalist and dancer, and Aimee Mallon, who is one half of Dublin-based electronic indie-house duo, Le Boom.
14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 30 January 2020
DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS I N F O R M AT I O N
SOME OF THE RANDOM AND QUIRKY
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OVER 23,000 people have applied for two jobs on the uninhabited Great Blasket Island. Although no one lives permanently on the island, the tourist season of April to October has meant two people are needed to run the three guest cottages and coffee shop on Blasket. There is no electricity, Wi-Fi or hot water on the island but apparently that has not deterred thousands of people – some as far afield as Australia and the US – to apply for positions. Blasket Island lies two kilometres off the Kerry coast, is only six kilometres long and was famously the home of writer
Dating disaster goes viral A DUBLIN girl went viral last week after her tweet about her weirdest date ever amassed nearly 350,000 likes. Holly Shortall, 30, from Dublin said when she was younger, she brought her date a condolence card and present after she learnt his pet bat died.
THE reimagined and refurbished Irish Wars 1919 – 1923 opened at the National Museum of Ireland recently, as part of the Museum’s Decade of Centenaries Commemorations. The exhibition features 50 newly displayed artefacts, including an IRA intelligence file digitised and will be accessible for the first time. Pictured are Brenda Malone, Curator, Irish Wars 1919–1923; Gerard Fitzpatrick, Donor of the IRA intelligence file and Dr Audrey Whitty, Head of Collections and Learning, National Museum of Ireland. Pictures: JULIEN BEHAL PHOTOGRAPHY
However, communication wires must have been crossed between Holly and her date as she wrote: “When I was a wee emo this guy asked me out - I didn’t hear from him on the day till he texted me saying sorry and that his bat had died. So, I got him a condolence card and a present and took it to the date, like,” I’m so
sorry about your pet bat,” and he was like, “no I meant my phone battery”. Holly added: “In my defence, this was when we all had Nokia 3210s and a dead battery was unheard of.” Holly’s tweet spread all over Twitter and Reddit gaining over 30,000 retweets in the process.
DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Bonnie is a very sweet and friendly six-year-old Jack Russell Terrier. She is instantly friendly with everyone and just loves company. She is an active girl; loves to play with her toys; and enjoys a fun game of fetch. Bonnie is a very sweet girl who will make an amazing addition to any family once she is given time to settle in. As Bonnie loves company so much, she is looking for a family who will be home for most of the day, so she doesn’t get lonely. She can live with children over the age of 12, especially if they can help with her ongoing training. Bonnie can be picky with her doggy pals, so if her future family have a dog already, they will need to do a meet at the Rehoming Centre beforehand. If you have room in your heart and home for Bonnie then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. (Remember: Always have your dog on a lead when in public.)
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Peig Seyers. Owner of the houses, Billy O’Connor, grandson of the late Peter Callery, a Dingle solicitor whose company once owned most of the Blasket, said the level of interest has taken him by surprise. O’Connor and his wife, Alice Hayes say they are still trawling through their email inbox and will get back to the successful candidates in due course. “A huge, huge thank you to everyone who took time to apply and share or like the post, we can’t explain how much your interest means to us,” said Hayes. The posting says the job is suitable for a couple or two friends who are happy to move together.
bonnie
DOG OF THE WEEK
30 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15
THINGS THAT CAUGHT OUR EYE THIS WEEK...
BITS & BOBS TOP TWEETS
I saw this on my walk into college. Dublin- never change. @mary guilbeaux
bruh this pic just gave me lack toes in toddler ants
New exhibits go on show Police answer mystery Heroic farm dog Patsy saves starlings found dead THE mystery of hundreds of starlings being found dead on a road in Anglesey, Wales is understood to have been solved by the police who say they were avoiding a predator. More than 200 starlings were spread over a road near Llyn Llyweran, in the north-west of Wales in December. Originally thought to be a mystery, North Wales Police’s rural crime team now saw they cracked the case after the Animal and Plant Health Agency examined the birds. The post-mortem results show the birds suffered severe internal trauma from impact. Rob Taylor, from the force’s rural crime team, said: “Please bear in mind that the full toxicology has not been received, so a final theory cannot be confirmed, but we are quite sure of the reasons and cause of deaths to the birds. “The trauma supports the case that the birds died from impact with the road. “It’s highly likely the murmuration took avoiding action whilst airborne, from possibly a bird of prey, with the rear of the group not pulling up in time and striking the ground. “We still await toxicology, but from speaking to many people, looking at the injuries and previous worldwide cases, it appears by taking avoiding flight action the murmuration has flown towards the ground and pulled up, but some have not made it.”
When My Chemical Romance announce a Dublin gig @ iresimpsonsfans
sheep from Australian bushfires THE Australian bushfires have devasted large parts of the country and killed more than one billion animals since September 2019. Volunteers from around the coun-
try and as far away as USA and Canada have fought courageously to fight the blazes and rescue the country’s animal’s, many of which are endan-
gered. Among these brave volunteers is Patsy – a six year-old border collie. According to CNET, Patsy lives with her owner Stephen Hill in Corryong, Victoria and helped save Hill’s entire flock of sheep from the encroaching blaze in early January. Patsy herded all 900 sheep to the safest paddock on the farm, as Hill fought the fires threatening his land. “I’d have been stuffed without Patsy,” said Hill. “She’s earned front-seat privileges for the rest of her life.” The fearless Patsy managed to save nearly every animal with only a handful of sheds and animals lost. Tales of Patsy’s feat has g a r n e re d a d m i re r s f ro m around the world, with her new Instagram account – Patsy the Corryong Wonder Dog – attracting thousands of followers.
News just in: Ireland is 40 years old @poilination
16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 30 January 2020
FOOD&DRINK
Seeds are sown for children’s initiative
Gary Ibbotson
INNOCENT and Grow It Yourself (GIY) and teamed up once again to launch this year’s ‘Big Grow’ initiative – encouraging young people to grow their own fresh fruit and vegetables. Now in its ninth year, the campaign has been developed closely with teachers and educational specialists to give aspiring junior gardeners the information and tools to create their own little vegetable patch in their garden, classroom or even windowsill. Michael Kelly, GIY founder, said: “Studies show that children who grow their own food are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables and show higher levels of knowledge about nutrition. “The children not only learn the science of growing, they also experience the joy of growing and eating their own food. “GIY calls this ‘Food Empathy’, which is a deeper connection with food, and is proven to lead to a healthier life longterm. “We are delighted to work
with innocent on this once again and we hope these life lessons stay with our growers into adulthood,” he says. Food writer Lilly Higgins, who has joined this year’s campaign said she “is so excited to be involved in the innocent Big Grow”. Higgins says: “This campaign is doing something very important - building a lifelong love of healthy food with children. “If we can instil a love of homegrown produce with kids at an early age, we are giving them a valuable skill for life.” The Big Grow is open for primary schools across the country with 60,000 children getting the opportunity to avail of a free grow kit. This year, for the first time, the school judged to have cultivated the most impressive grows will receive €1,000 towards their school garden adding an extra incentive for the nation’s little growers to get involved and grow crazy. The kits include three packs of seeds and children will get the chance to grow peas, cress and baby carrots.
Jessica Chinamasa and Hannah Bryce-Smith, little growers from St Brigid’s Garden Club in Stillorgan joining the growvolution with the innocent Big Grow. Picture: Mark Stedman
Thirty-two growing cups will also be included - one for each student to sow their own little ‘crop’. Compost disc that expands in their cup when water is
added, a teacher’s resource booklet which includes lots of fun and educational activities, a classroom wallchart so that teachers can celebrate the weekly growing highs and suc-
cesses and some Star Grower Badges, will also be in the growing kits. To apply for a grow kit, please visit www.innocentbiggrow.com.
Sink your teeth into Rugby inspired recipes YOGHURT brand Glenisk will host an exclusive one-day pop-up restaurant in Tang on Dawson Street on Monday, February 3. Following Ireland’s opening encounter of the 2020 Guinness Six Nations on February 1, the restaurant will be serving up a host of limitededition rugby-inspired recipes from 7:30 am. As part of its ‘Eat Like Them’ campaign, Glenisk have developed a menu of 15 scrum-ptious (aye?) highprotein dishes. The menu will feature both breakfast and lunch options as well as a selection of all-day protein snacks, developed by Glenisk in collaboration with the IRFU Performance Nutrition team. Example of dishes will include Protein Pancakes, slow-cooked Marinated Irish Beef and Vegetarian Falafel. Dishes will range in price from €2.50 up to €9, with all proceeds from the day donated to Peter McVerry Trust. There will also be chances to win great rugby prizes on the day including tickets to see Ireland v Wales on February 8.
Saba To Go Rathmines named best takeaway
SABA to Go, Rathmines was crowned Ireland’s favourite takeaway last week at the Just Eat National Takeaway Awards. Overall, 10 establishments in Dublin walked away with awards with Camile Thai, Phibsboro winning Best Takeaway Sustainability Award, while San Sab in Drumcondra won the best Spice Bag category. Hosted in Dublin’s Number Twenty-Two and presented by presenter and foodie Cassie Stokes, The National Takeaway Awards were developed by Just
Eat to celebrate the nation’s favourite local takeaways. Over 17,000 people nationwide voted on 25 categories with best vegan takeaway and best sustainable takeaway new additions to the list. Unsurprisingly, the humble spice bag was voted Ireland’s favourite dish for the second year running, beating out the burrito, chicken korma, fish and chips and pepperoni pizza. The full list of winners:
Best takeaway Ireland Saba to Go, Rathmines Best takeaway Dublin Saba to Go, Rathmines, D6 Best takeaway Connacht Xian Street Food, Galway Best takeaway Munster Camile Thai, Limerick Ireland’s favourite dish Spice bag Best Chinese Bamboo Court, Letterkenny Best Indian Bombay Pantry, Rathfarnham, D14 Best Thai Saba to Go, Rathmines Best Mexican Boojum, Kevin Street, D2
Best Japanese Wagamama, South King Street, D2 Best Middle Eastern Zaytoon, Camden Street, D2 Best breakfast McDonald’s, Swords Best chipper Macari 101, NaasBest pizza Base Wood Fired Pizza, Terenure, Dublin 6 Best salad Chopped, Fairview, D3 Best spice bag San Sab, Drumcondra, D9 Best sustainability Camile Thai, Phibsborough, D7 Best vegan Camile Thai, Greystones, Wicklow Best vegetarian Camile Thai, Limerick
Amanda Roche-Kelly, MD Just Eat Ireland, pictured with the winners of Best Takeaway Ireland, Saba To Go; Alan Cadden and Paul Cadden, and Head Chef Noraset Pradubwate . Picture: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland
30 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17
DUBLIN GAZETTE’S ELECTION FOCUS
GENERAL ELECTION 2020
THE CANDIDATES We bring you a full list of the candidates across Dublin THE CANDIDATES are confirmed - it’s all systems go on the campaign trail, and here at Dublin Gazette we continue with our comprehensive coverage of Election 2020. 151 candidates are running across 11 constituences in the capital. Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, The Labour Party, Sinn Féin, Green Party/Comhaontas Glas, Solidarity - People Before Profit, United People (UP), Aontú, Irish Freedom Party, Renua Ireland, The National Party, The Workers Party, Independents 4 Change, Social Democrats, Independents and Non Party candidates are all part of the mix. THE CONSITUENCIES ARE BROKEN DOWN AS FOLLOWS: Dublin Fingal (16) Dublin West (12) Dublin North West (10) Dublin Bay North (18) Dublin Central (15) Dublin Bay South (15) Dublin South Central (13) Dublin Mid-West (12) Dublin South West (16) Dublin Rathdown (11) Dun Laoghaire (13)
ALL MAPPED OUT
COMMENT: We need a strong voter turn-out
Make sure you use your vote and have your say IT’S TEN days out from the 2020 General Election, and politicans and their campaign teams across the capital and indeed the country are ramping up their efforts to gain your all important vote. That’s the thing your vote is IMPORTANT - not just to the politicians, but to you, and indeed the greater populace in how we can shape the future of this country. Irish freedom was hard earned; so too was the right to allow women to vote. All of this just happened around a century ago - but since then we have shaped a strong democracy - and for all it’s faults Ireland isn’t a bad country to live in - certainly by World standards. Granted there are plenty of things that certainly need to be tackled - the homeless and housing crisis to just single out a particular issue. How do we address this? We put pressure on the election candidates to do something about it - we vote for people who can make a difference. We read their manifestos and those of their parties (if they have one), and we shape our opinions and thoughts to select what we think are the right candidates. But if you’ve listened to what the politicans
CÓILÍN DUFFY GROUP EDITOR DUBLIN GAZETTE
canvassing have to say, or read their leaflets and manifestos, but then don’t vote - what’s the point! Only by voting can you really have a say. You’ll say what difference does one vote make - but you’ll be surprised how it can. While countries such as the United Kingdom also call themselves a democracy - they are to a point - but not as much as we are here in Ireland. The UK system uses the ‘first past the post’ type of format, which means you only vote for one candidate for who you want to get into parliament. In fact it’s only one representative in the House of Commons per consistuency too. Here we operate the ‘proportional representation system’. We vote for our candidates in order of preference. Even if you have 11 candidates and you mark it 1 through to 11, it could actually make a difference for No. 11! Vote wisely!!
18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 30 January 2020
GENERAL ELECTION 2020
30 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19
GENERAL ELECTION 2020
ALL 151 CANDIDATES IN 11 DUBLIN CONSTITUENCIES AIMING TO BE A T.D. ON FEB 8
THE CANDIDATES ALL MAPPED OUT DUBLIN FINGAL
DUBLIN BAY NORTH
DUBLIN BAY SOUTH
DUBLIN SOUTH WEST
GLENN BRADY INDEPENDENT
RICHARD BRUTON FINE GAEL
CHRIS ANDREWS SINN FÉIN
CIARÁN AHERN THE LABOUR PARTY
LORRAINE CLIFFORD-LEE FIANNA FÁIL
MICHAEL BURKE NON PARTY
NORMA BURKE NON PARTY
CARLY BAILEY SOCIAL DEMOCRATS
ALAN FARRELL FINE GAEL
CONOR CREAVEN NON PARTY
PETER DOOLEY NON PARTY
COLM BROPHY FINE GAEL
TERRY KELLEHER SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
BRIAN GARRIGAN NON PARTY
SARAH DURCAN SOCIAL DEMOCRATS
ANNE MARIE CONDREN RENUA IRELAND
DEAN MULLIGAN INDEPENDENTS 4 CHANGE
BEN GILROY IRISH FREEDOM PARTY
MANNIX FLYNN NON PARTY
SEÁN CROWE SINN FÉIN
PAUL MULVILLE SOCIAL DEMOCRATS
SEAN HAUGHEY FIANNA FÁIL
JACQUI GILBOURNE RENUA IRELAND
MICK DUFF NON PARTY
TONY MURPHY NON PARTY
DAVID HEALY GREEN PARTY/COMHAONTAS GLAS
KEVIN HUMPHREYS THE LABOUR PARTY
FRANCIS NOEL DUFFY GREEN PARTY/COMHAONTAS GLAS
DARRAGH O’BRIEN FIANNA FÁIL
DEIRDRE HENEY FIANNA FÁIL
JOHN DOMINIC KEIGHER NON PARTY
PHILIP DWYER THE NATIONAL PARTY - AN PÁIRTÍ NÁISIÚNTA
JOE O’BRIEN GREEN PARTY/COMHAONTAS GLAS
JOHN LYONS NON PARTY
ANNETTE MOONEY SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
SANDRA FAY SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
GEMMA O’DOHERTY NON PARTY
LINDA MCEVOY NON PARTY
EOGHAN MURPHY FINE GAEL
JOHN LAHART FIANNA FÁIL
LOUISE O’REILLY SINN FÉIN
DENISE MITCHELL SINN FÉIN
JIM O’CALLAGHAN FIANNA FÁIL
PAUL MURPHY SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
JAMES REILLY FINE GAEL
BERNARD MULVANY SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
KATE O’CONNELL FINE GAEL
CHARLIE O’CONNOR FIANNA FÁIL
ALISTAIR SMITH UNITED PEOPLE (UP)
CATHERINE NOONE FINE GAEL
SEAN O’LEARY NON PARTY
DEIRDRE O’DONOVAN FIANNA FÁIL
DUNCAN SMITH THE LABOUR PARTY
MICHAEL O’BRIEN SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
EAMONN RYAN GREEN PARTY/COMHAONTAS GLAS
COLM O’ KEEFFE NON PARTY
SANDRA SWEETMAN NON PARTY
CIAN O’CALLAGHAN SOCIAL DEMOCRATS
BEN SCALLAN IRISH FREEDOM PARTY
ELLEN O’MALLEY DUNLOP FINE GAEL
OGHENETANO JOHN UWHUMIAKPOR
PROINSIAS O’CONARAIN AONTÚ
KATHERINE ZAPPONE NON PARTY
SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
SEAN O’LEARY NON PARTY
AODHAN O’RIORDAIN THE LABOUR PARTY
DUBLIN WEST
JOAN BURTON THE LABOUR PARTY PETER CASEY NON PARTY JACK CHAMBERS FIANNA FÁIL RUTH COPPINGER SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT EMER CURRIE FINE GAEL PAUL DONNELLY SINN FÉIN EDWARD MacMANUS AONTÚ RODERIC O’GORMAN GREEN PARTY/COMHAONTAS GLAS SEAN O’LEARY INDEPENDENT STEPHEN O’LOUGHLIN NON PARTY
DUBLIN CENTRAL
GILLIAN BRIEN SOLIDARITY -
PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
CHRISTY BURKE NON PARTY PATRICK CLOHESSY NON PARTY JOE COSTELLO THE LABOUR PARTY PASCHAL DONOHOE FINE GAEL DEIRDRE DUFFY FINE GAEL MARY FITZPATRICK FIANNA FÁIL GARY GANNON SOCIAL DEMOCRATS
AENGUS Ó MAOLÁIN SOCIAL DEMOCRATS
RITA HARROLD SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
LEO VARADKAR FINE GAEL
NEASA HOURIGAN GREEN PARTY/COMHAONTAS GLAS
MARY LOU MCDONALD SINN FÉIN
SARAH LOUISE MULLIGAN NON PARTY
SEAN O’LEARY NON PARTY EILIS RYAN THE WORKERS PARTY
DUBLIN NORTHWEST
CAROLINE CONROY GREEN PARTY/COMHAONTAS GLAS
IAN CROFT NON PARTY
IAN NOEL SMYTH AONTÚ
DESSIE ELLIS SINN FÉIN
DOLORES WEBSTER NON PARTY
NIALL FITZGERALD NON PARTY
PAUL MCAULIFFE FIANNA FÁIL
ANDREW MONTAGUE THE LABOUR PARTY
CONOR REDDY SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
STEPHEN REDMOND THE NATIONAL PARTY
NOEL ROCK FINE GAEL
ROISIN SHORTALL SOCIAL DEMOCRATS
DUBLIN SOUTH CENTRAL CATHERINE ARDAGH FIANNA FÁIL
CATHERINE BYRNE FINE GAEL
JOAN COLLINS INDEPENDENTS 4 CHANGE
PATRICK COSTELLO GREEN PARTY/COMHAONTAS GLAS
TARA DEACY SOCIAL DEMOCRATS
ROBERT FOLEY NON PARTY
SERINA IRVINE THE NATIONAL PARTY
ALAN KERRIGAN NON PARTY
REBECCA MOYNIHAN THE LABOUR PARTY
RICHARD MURRAY NON PARTY
SEAN O’LEARY NON PARTY
AENGUS O’SNODAIGH SINN FÉIN
BRID SMITH SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
DUBLIN MID-WEST
DublinGazette
NEXT WEEK: THE PARTY LEADERS GIVE US THEIR THOUGHTS
DUBLIN RATHDOWN
SHAY BRENNAN FIANNA FÁIL DEIRDRE CONROY FIANNA FÁIL LIAM COUGHLAN AONTÚ JOSEPHA MADIGAN FINE GAEL CATHERINE MARTIN GREEN PARTY/COMHAONTAS GLAS LETTIE MCCARTHY THE LABOUR PARTY SORCHA NIC CORMAIC SINN FÉIN PATRICK NOONAN NON PARTY EOGHAN Ó CEANNABHÁIN SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT NEALE RICHMOND FINE GAEL SHANE ROSS NON PARTY
DUN LAOGHAIRE
RICHARD BOYD BARRETT SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
VICKI CASSERLY FINE GAEL
JENNIFER CARROLL MACNEILL FINE GAEL
JOHN CURRAN FIANNA FÁIL
CORMAC DEVLIN FIANNA FÁIL
DAVID GARDINER THE WORKERS PARTY
MARY HANAFIN FIANNA FÁIL
PAUL NICHOLAS GOGARTY INDEPENDENT
MARY MITCHELL O’CONNOR FINE GAEL
EMER HIGGINS FINE GAEL
SHANE O’BRIEN SINN FÉIN
PETER KAVANAGH GREEN PARTY/COMHAONTAS
JULIET O’CONNELL THE LABOUR PARTY
GINO KENNY SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
CON ÓG Ó LAOGHAIRE IRISH FREEDOM PARTY (I.F.P.)
CAITRÍONA MC CLEAN FIANNA FÁIL
DAVE QUINN SOCIAL DEMOCRATS
EOIN Ó BROIN SINN FÉIN
OSSIAN SMYTH GREEN PARTY/COMHAONTAS GLAS
FRANCIS TIMMONS INDEPENDENT
MAIRÉAD TÓIBÍN AONTÚ
JOANNA TUFFY THE LABOUR PARTY
BARRY WARD FINE GAEL
MARK WARD SINN FÉIN
JOHN WATERS NON PARTY
DUBLIN GAZETTE NO. 1 FOR ELECTIONS COVERAGE ACROSS THE CAPITAL
20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 30 January 2020
GENERAL ELECTION 2020
LEADERS HAVE THEIR SAY IN GALWAY
(left to right) Fine Gael leader, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald, Solidarity People Before Profit politician Richard Boyd Barrett, Social Democrats joint leader Roisin Shortall, Green Party leader Eamon Ryan, Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and Irish Labour Party leader Brendan Howlin, during the seven way RTE leaders debate at the NUIG campus in Galway on Monday night . Picture: Niall Carson PA Wire/PA Images
Glenageary’s BoydBarrett a big winner in RTÉ Leaders Debate CÓILÍN DUFFY GROUP EDITOR AT RTÉ LEADERS DEBATE, NUI GALWAY cduffy@dublingazette.com
SOLIDARITY - PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT’S Richard Boyd Barrett certainly came out a real winner, following the RTÉ Election 2020 Leaders Debate at NUI Galway on Monday night. Hosted as the ‘Claire Byrne Live Leaders Debate’, the almost two-hour long debate tackled the issues of Crime, Housing and Taxation along with the areas of climate change and the Environment. The left-leaning polititcians in the debate certainly were the big winners in particular Boyd-Barrett who got his points across strongly, in a well-delivered fashion, with the substance of his comments factually accurate, and certainly
going down well with the public. Social media was awash with praise for Boyd-Barrett; Eamon Ryan of the Green Party, and Social Democrats leader Roisín Shortall, while there were also kudos for much of what Sinn Féin’s Mary-Lou McDonald had to say. Indeed most of the Dublin based politicians came out of the debate strongly, and while there was much pressure on Fine Gael leader An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar - he certainly came out with the quote of the night saying ‘there’s a fair few nutters in all parties including my own!’. There was certainly a huge challenge for debate host Claire Byrne to ‘get it right’ and allow for a flowing debate, while also ensuring all of those involved got a fair crack at the whip in order to achieve balance and fairness required
under Broadcasting and media Law. The Laois native certainly achieved
“
The left leaning politicans in the debate were certainly the big winners this with aplomb, and has to be praised for the way she handly the debate fairly, and not being afraid to challenge the leaders on certain points they had made. It was hugely evident that she had done her homework.
While this was a debate on national issues - of course all national issues are local! However, it wasn’t surprising that on some of the topics addressed - examples specifically relating to Dublin constituencies came to the fore. In the area of housing, Leo Varadkar made reference to allowing for more cost-rental schemes across the country, and cited the recent schemes at Enniskerry Rd. and Emmet Rd. in Dublin as a model that Fine Gael intend to roll-out across the country should they get back into power. On the issue of crime Labour leader Brendan Howlin talked about how communities who are under siege are frightened, and reference the good work being done by Gardaí throughout the country, and in particular in North Inner City Dublin, where he said that it was found
to be the case that it wasn’t just about simply having Garda Checkpoints in order to be effective. Sinn Féin’s Mary Lou McDonald talked how Fitzgibbon St. Garda Station is still close, while her local station in Cabra is only open part-time hours. ‘You have to ensure that the Gardaí have the basic stuff (also),” she said. The next debate will take place on Virgin Media One at 9.30pm tonight (Thursday January 30). Once again the seven main party leaders will come under the microscope, with VMTV’s Matt Cooper and Ivan Yates asking the questions. There had been calls from the smaller parties including Aontú’s Peadar Tobin to include them in the RTÉ debate last Monday, but an application for a court injunction was dropped at the 11th hour.
30 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21
FRESH IDEAS FOR YOUR WARDROBE
Adorably accessible
(L-R) Dunnes Stores: Easy dressing check shirt, €12 - €14 Wheelchair accessible jacket, €20-€22 Easy Dressing long sleeve top, €8-10 Easy Dressing star print top, €8 - €10 Easy Dressing button joggers, €12 - €14
Rachel D’Arcy, Style Editor
DUNNES STORES have launched a line of new kids clothing, designed for children with additional needs. The Additional Needs clothing range features a line of fashions and underwear designed to be more accessible for children in wheelchairs, with tubes, or with other extra needs not provided for in regular clothing.
super Sporty style Rachel D’Arcy, Style Editor THE TOMMY SPORT collection for Spring 2020 has dropped, and it’s enough to make you want to run right to the gym! The new collection is inspired by the pioneering spirit of modern America, celebrating the brand’s 35th anniversary by fusing classic heritage pieces with a twist. Essentials including sports bras, leggings and T-shirts are reimagined through colour-blocking, mesh detailing and defined ergonomic cut lines. These new details
HOME & STYLE
ensure that you’ll look fashion forward whether you’re slaying it on the treadmill or pumping iron. Innovative elements bring a technical edge to signature styles, with the garments usingantibacterial Polygiene, HerMin Weave Tech breathable and waterrepellent organic cotton, as well as moisture wicking and cooling TH Cool miDori. The silhouettes of each garment are designed forenhanced freedom of movement, while sports bras offer added high-support. There’s also a great
offering for the guys in the new collection, too! Pops of bright orange and lemonlime contrast with the brand’s iconic red, white and navy colour palette, with exciting graphics spicing things up just a little! We’ve rounded up some of our top picks from the new collection that we can’t wait to rock as we work on our ‘new year, new me’ mantra at the gym - or while we’re lounging at home on another Netflix binge! For more on TommySport, and to see the rest of the collection, check out
Items in the new range include leggings and joggers, jackets, shirts, tops and dresses that feature velcro or an alternative soft-close fastening and opening for PEG tubes. The care labels in the garments are also concealed to avoid irritation, with the fabrics soft to the touch as well. The collection also features a range of undergarments, including vests and bodysuits, that are also designed to be accessible with their openings.
22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 30 January 2020
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30 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23
WHAT’S BIG IN MUSIC, CINEMA, TV AND ONLINE
ENTERTAINMENT Picture: Anthony O’Connor
GEORGE MURPHY GEORGE MURPHY found fame at an early age, and it was almost unintended. The Dubliner was more into acting at the age of 17, but he applied to RTE reality singing show ‘You’re A Star’, progressed through numerous weeks, and went on to get a number one album. Now in his 30s, he has a far more organic approach to music. “It always served as a platform,” he recalls of his early days in television, which helped establish his distinctive vocal and mellow, folk-tinged sound. “I was always grateful
JAMES HENDICOTT
for it, but reality TV is not something I’d advise musicians to get involved in. “Like-minded people making something together in a garage or a bedroom is much better. I know that sounds hypocritical, considering the background I come from, but honestly there’s a bit of me that wishes I’d never done it.” In truth, music was almost thrust upon Mur-
phy, though through his own actions, with the stage his first love and very much his focus at the time. Musically, he was a vocalist, and couldn’t read music, let alone play guitar. That came later, as did his new band, a passion project based around local pubs in north Dublin the accompanies him as The Rising Sons. “It was great getting a number one album,” Murphy recalls. “ That said, I didn’t feel like I earned it. It was given to me on a plate. I feel what I’m doing now so much more natural and
GOINGOUTOUT
so much stronger, and I think it might surprise people who have certain expectations of me. Any success I get now, I’ll feel like I deserve it.” That confidence and attitude is emphasised by Murphy’s approach to shows: talking of playing to audiences with certain expectations, he sees a chance to win them over to his developing style. “The ups and downs are really quite full on,” he says. “It can be a funny world, music, you can be on top of the pile, and the next day you’re yesterday’s news.”
Mu r p hy re g ro u p e d post-reality TV by heading to New York, where he worked as a barman and learnt to play guitar, grifting for gigs in a city where he was a real unknown. The experience formed him into a far more complete musician. On returning home, his work with The Rising Sons inspires him, and is centred on practicality and passion. “We play in the evenings in pubs in Santry and Lorcan,” Murphy says of the band, who do the pub gigs for fun, but play far more substantial
JANUARY 30 (THURSDAY)
Krept x Konan @ The Academy, €29
Sturgill Simpson @ Vicar Street February 1
JANUARY 31 (FRIDAY)
SWITCHING TO HIS OWN GROOVE
shows as part of a tour between times. “It’s a neighbourhood vibe,” he adds, clearly passionate about the shows. “I love these guys. They all have full time jobs so I want them to be able to walk home, but I also want to be able to give this a real go with them. “They’re a good band in their own right, and they’re getting shows without me, too, now. Touring is a bit more difficult, and I’ve been advised several times to just get session musicians to go on tour. “But it’s not what I
Elkae @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €13 808 State @ The Button Factory, €17+ Carvin Jones @ The Workman’s Club, €25
Jonas Brothers @ 3Arena, sold out Beth Hart @ Vicar Street, sold out Hail The Ghost @ Whelan’s, €15 Terri Hooley @ The Sugar Club, €15 Odd Morris @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), sold out
Lil Mosey @ The Olympia Theatre, €25 Kane Brown @ The Academy, €28 Milky Chance @ Vicar Street, sold out
FEBRUARY 1 (SATURDAY)
FEBRUARY 4 (TUESDAY)
Sturgill Simpson @ Vicar Street, €30
FEBRUARY 2 (SUNDAY)
The Local Honeys @ Whelan’s (Up-
want, really. It’s about more than just being technically good, it’s about community. I can play as just myself, and I don’t want to play with anyone else. This is my natural vibe.” Finding that feel has been critical to Murphy, who finally seems like he’s found his place in the musical world, a far, far cry from where he started out. It’s been a long but vital road. George Murphy plays Dublin Racing Festival on February 2. Other dates on his ongoing tour can be found on GeorgeMurphyMusic.com
stairs), €15 Kim Petras @ The Academy 2, €23
FEBRUARY 5 (WEDNESDAY)
Black Pumas @ The Academy, €25 The Slow Readers Club @ The Button Factory, €19 Villiers & The Villains @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €15 Sun Shakers @ Whelan’s, €10 Alina Bzhezhinska Quartet @ The Sugar Club, €10 Jamie Freed @ The Workman’s Club, €5
24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 30 January 2020
DUBLIN MOTORS
WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT
Turn heads with this Mazda beauty limited edition anniversary edition mx-5 wows
With only 10 of the 30th anniversary edition MX-5 available for Ireland, you’ll need luck to spot one of these stunning cars on our roads
DECLAN GLYNN
IN ORDER to celebrate the birth of the iconic Mazda MX-5, Mazda unveiled a 30th anniversary edition MX-5 at the 2019 Chicago Motor Show, three decades after its debut at the very same motor show in 1989. With global production limited to 3,000 models, only 10 units will be available in Ireland. The 30th anniversary edition features the new 184PS (181bhp) version of Mazda’s acclaimed 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engine, and is available only in the roadster (convertible) body-type. Launched as both a tribute to loyal MX-5 fans, and as a mark of the high hopes the firm has for the future of its sports car, this Mazda MX-5 is exclusively offered in the newly developed Racing Orange body paint – a strikingly vivid colour that marks out this special motor. In addition to Racing Orange, the new MX-5 features forged aluminium Rays wheels, developed exclusively for it in co-operation with Rays
Toyota readies new RAV4 hybrid model THE new Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid is due to be launched in Ireland in the second half of 2020. With the experience of developing two generations of its Prius plug-in hybrid model, Toyota is well-equipped to produce an effective new powertrain for the RAV4. It has the potential to deliver acceleration from 0 to 100 kmph in just 6.2 seconds, outperforming any of its conventionally powered rivals. Moreover, it is also on course to deliver bestin-class CO2 emissions
and fuel economy, with data indicating a CO2 output of less than 29g/ km – levels unmatched by any current D-segment plug-in hybrid AWD SUV. Equipment specifications reflect the RAV4 plug-in hybrid’s flagship status. Features and options will include 19-inch alloy wheels, heated front and rear seats, a 230 V power outlet in the cabin, a bi-tone exterior paint finish, power tailgate, nine-inch display audio system and the latest Toyota multimedia package.
Some top tips to help improve efficiencies
“
This engine is one of the greatest four-cylinder motors you can buy. Silky-smooth, it starts up with a fruity growl.
Wheel Co Ltd, and a 30th anniversary badge displaying the model’s serial number Other unique features include orange brake calipers with Nissin brakes on the rear, and Brembo brakes on the front wheels. My review car proved itself to be a real headt u r n e r, b o t h w h e n parked-up and when on the move, while performance from the engine
was never an issue. Producing 181bhp and 205Nm of torque, the car can go from 0-100kmph in just 6.5 seconds, and can achieve a top speed of 205kmph. This engine is one of the greatest four-cylinder motors you can buy. Silky-smooth, it starts up with a fruity growl, and is likeable in everyday use, but really comes alive when the accelerator pedal is pushed
towards the floor. The engine revs all the way around the rev counter to 7,500rpm, and is responsible for making a superb car even better than ever before. Claimed fuel consumption of 6.9l/100km on a combined driving cycle is achievable, while an annual road tax disc will cost €570. The MX-5 is lighter than most cars on the road, and this is reflected
in the precision of the steering, the light clutch, and the enjoyable shortthrow gearbox. While the stunning new Mazda MX-5 range is priced from €28,195 (ex-delivery), this limited edition roadster is available for €40,995 (exdelivery). The Mazda MX-5 30th anniversary edition is the perfect way to celebrate three decades of this iconic sports car.
EVEN the most experienced driver out there can lapse into a little laziness in their driving or maintenance habits. However, there are plenty of things that we can all do to improve our efficiencies, and take better care of our vehicles – which, ultimately, also takes better care of us on the roads. Here are some top tips for greater efficiency for any driver to remember... Tip 1: Driving in the wrong gear – To drive more efficiently, change up into a higher gear as soon as conditions allow, as correct use of gears can shave up to 15% off your fuel bill. Tip 2: Don’t ignore warning lights – It is worthwhile to remember that warning lights are there to alert you that something is wrong and needs attention. If you choose to ignore a warning light, you could have to face expensive repairs later. Tip 3: Sudden braking – Constant sudden braking will wear out your discs and brake pads, and increase the likelihood of brake failure. Tip 4: Skimping on car maintenance – Looking after the routine maintenance of your car is an easy way to prolong its driving life, and it will pay huge dividends in the long run. Tip 5: Tyre pressure check – It is important to check tyre pressures regularly, as correctly inflated tyres can improve fuel consumption by up to 2%. Tip 6: Watch your speed – This may come as a surprise, but driving just 8 kmph over the speed limit can affect fuel consumption by as much as 23%. The most fuel-efficient speed is 75-80 kmph.
30 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25
TAKE A BREAK, AT HOME OR AWAY
It’s almost time for the ‘Firefall’ to flow in America IT’S that time of year again, for any lucky visitors heading to Yosemite National Park in America – time for ‘the Firefall’. The annual event lasts for just two weeks in February, drawing even more visitors than usual to the stunning national park. Already home to a dizzying range of picture-perfect sights that draw families, lovers of the great outdoors and photographers to the park in huge numbers each year, the Firefall has become an early-year attraction in its own right. What appears to be a river of fire tumbling down a sheer cliff face is both a natural phenomenon and an optical illusion, that varies from year to year. As the setting sun hits Horsetail Falls at just the right side angle, the colour of the fading sunlight, and the volume and speed of the tumbling waters, combine to create a unique visual spectacle – the Firefall. With this year’s event expected to flow from February 13-29, Irish visitors to California should definitely put this on their bucket list, heading over to the state’s Sierra Nevada mountains for the stunning park, and for the Firefall itself. With a range of direct flights from Dublin to California now possible, this is definitely something to take in.
Dublin proves a big hit with holidaymakers, list shows DUBLIN has just added another prestigious string to its bow, with the revelation that our fair city is firmly in the top ten list of European cities to travel to. That’s according to research by Loveholidays.com, which collated thousands of awards for a wide range of cities over the past several years. Examining awards in areas including travel, hospitality and entertainment, to name but a few, Dublin shot into the top ten list. As you’d expect, some usual suspects – the likes of London and Paris – are ahead of Dublin in the ranking, but Dubliners can hold their head high with the knowledge that we’re a very popular travel destination. For the full list, and information, see https://www. loveholidays.com/holidays/campaigns/mostaward-winning-travel-destinations/ award-winning-travel-destinations/.
DUBLIN TRAVEL
Bill to thwart boozy tourists welcomed THE Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) have released a statement regarding a recent decision by Spain’s Balearic Islands to clamp down on excessive alcohol consumption by holidaymakers in the area. The move by local authorities seeks to curb some of the worst behaviour at San Antonio on the island of Ibiza, and El Arenal and Magaluf on Mallorca. Welcoming the clampdown, the ITAA said: “We view the introduction of
these new laws as a positive move for the Balearic Islands. “While everyone likes to kick back and have a good time on holiday, it is important to do so safely and responsibly to ensure that nobody gets hurt. “It is important to sort this out now, for the improvement of these areas and the people who live there “It is good that the Balearic regional authorities and local tourist organisations are making efforts to resolve these issues, to ensure that other holidaymakers and residents of the islands can feel safe in their surroundings while still having fun.”
26 DUBLIN GAZETTE 30 January 2020
POLSKA GAZETA
the first of our new section for Polish readers CHALLENGE YOURIn BRAIN...JUST FORnew FUN! we speak to the country’s Ambassador
Anna, the new Polish Lidl special offers on Polish native heads Polish food this week our new section Ambassador, tells us all about her love of Ireland and its people FOOD
MARTYNA MUSZCZYNSKA
news@dublingazette.com
NEW POLISH Ambassador Her Excellency Anna Sochanska describes her initial experience and thoughts of Ireland as fantastic. According to Anna, Irish people and society are very open and approachable, which as a result makes her feel at home. Speaking to Dublin Gazette, Anna says she has big plans for her role. ’On one hand it is an easy task as 150,000 Polish people work in Ireland and are well integrated within the Irish society,’ she said. ‘However, both countries lack strong political relations.’ Therefore, the Ambassador’s aim is to establish political dialogue between Polish and Irish Ministers/PrimeMinisters/Presidents. The Polish Ambassador expresses her concern about how the full potential of
Poland and Ireland is being wasted as both countries are focused on many issues of common interest. From Anna’s perspective, taking action towards improving relations between the two countries is her main role. Furthermore, Anna finds her role challenging because ‘’we live in a very difficult world with so many problems. We need to deal with issues related to international and social security as well as climate change’’. The major aspect which contributes to the challenges that the Polish Ambassador has to overcome is having a massive diaspora of 150,000 Polish people in Ireland. Her main goal is to represent Poland in proper manner. She is very active in defending the interests of Polish people. An example of that would be the introduction of the Polish language as one of the languages in curriculum in Irish schools as a
chance for children to study Polish and to pass Leaving Certificate. Clearly, the Ambassador shows interest in cultivating the Polish language and culture. The publication and exhibition of Paul Strzelecki, a Polish hero who helped to save 200,000 Irish children during the Great Famine was opened by President Higgins. With this in mind, workshops for children in Irish schools are sponsored by the Polish community. In those schools, the information about Paul Strzelecki was demonstrated for Irish children to see how Poland and Ireland are linked through history. Therefore, the contribution and activities made by Polish people create a significant connection between Irish and Polish people. In general, the Polish Ambassador wants to connect people, whether it is on historical basis or otherwise.
SUPERMARKET chain LIDL has a raft of special offers this week - with a particular focus on Polish produce. Among the items on offer are Smoked Whole Mackeral (€4.99/kg); Pickled Gherkins (€1.49); Sesame Bars (59c each or 3 for €1 Multi-buy) and Smoked Pork Sausage (€1.99 each). The promotion begins today (Thursday, January 30).
MEET MARTYNA
DUBLIN GAZETTE welcomes on board Martyna Muszczynska, who will take charge of our new page for the Polish Community – Polska Gazeta. Martyna was born in Poland and moved to Ireland when she was 10, living in Letterkenny for eight years before moving to Maynooth where she attended NUI Maynothand graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree after studying English and history. Her hobbies include reading, writing short stories, swimming, listening to music. She said: “I am really looking forward to bringing news to the 150,000-strong Polish community in Ireland through Dublin Gazette.”
Polish Ambassador Her Excellency Anna Sochanska (left) is interviewed by Dublin Gazette Polish correspondent Martyna Muszczynska. Picture: Cóilín Duffy
Irlandia to wspaniale miejsce. Nowy Polski Ambassador
NOWA POLSKA Ambasador Anna Sochańska opisuje swoje pierwsze doświadczenia i myśli na temat Irlandii jako fantastyczne. Według Pani Anny, Irlandczycy oraz ich społeczeństwo są bardzo otwartymi i dostępnymi ludźmi, dzięki czemu czuje się tu jak w domu. Rozmawiając z Dublin Gazette, Pani Anna opowiada o swoich wielkich planach dotyczących swojej roli. „Z jednej strony jest to łatwe zadanie, ponieważ 150, 000 Polaków pracuje w Irlandii i jest dobrze zintegrowanych ze społeczeństwem irlandzkim”, powiedziała Pani Anna. „Jednak oba kraje nie mają silnych stosunków politycznych.’’ Otóż celem Pani Ambasador jest
nawiązanie dialogu politycznego między polskim i irlandzkimi premierem oraz prezydentem. Pani Ambasador wyraża zaniepokojenie na podstawie marnowania pełnego potencjału Polski i Irlandii, ponieważ oba kraje koncentrują się na wielu kwestiach wspólnego zainteresowania. Z punktu widzenia Pani Anny jej główną rolą i wyzwaniem jest podejmowanie działań w celu poprawy stosunków między dwoma krajami. Ponadto, Pani Ambasador uważa swoją rolę za wymagającą, ponieważ „żyjemy w bardzo trudnym świecie z wieloma problemami związanymi z bezpieczeństwem międzynarodowym i społecznym, a także ze zmianami klimatu, z
którymi musimy sobie poradzić ”. Głównym aspektem, który przyczynia się do sprostania wyzwaniom, przed którymi stoi polski ambasador, jest ogromna diaspora 150,000 Polaków w Irlandii. Fundamentalnym celem pani Anny jest właściwe reprezentowanie Polski. Pani Ambasador bardzo aktywnie broni interesów Polaków. Przykładem tego jest wprowadzenie języka polskiego do szkół irlandzkich, ponieważ język polski w programie nauczania w szkołach irlandzkich jest szansą dla dzieci na naukę języka polskiego i zdaniem matury. Wyraźnie widać, iż Pani Ambasador interesuje się kształceniem języka polskiego oraz kultury polskiej. Prezydent Higgins otworzył
publikację i wystawę Pawła Strzeleckiego, polskiego bohatera, który pomógł uratować 200, 000 irlandzkich dzieci podczas Wielkiego Głodu. Mając to na uwadze, warsztaty dla dzieci w szkołach irlandzkich są sponsorowane przez polską społeczność. W tych szkołach informacje o Pawle Strzeleckim zostały pokazane irlandzkim dzieciom, aby zobaczyły powiązanie historyczne pomiędzy Polską i Irlandią. W związku z tym, wkład i działania Polaków tworzą znaczący związek między Irlandczykami, jak i również Polakami. Kolejnym celem Pani Ambasador jest łączenie ludzi na gruncie historycznym oraz kulturalnym.
30 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27
CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!
CODEWORDS
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DUBLIN PUZZLES SUDOKU EASY
MODERATE
SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS
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WORD SEARCH
HOW TO SOLVE Codewords are like crossword puzzles - but have no clues! Instead, every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number, the same number representing the same letter throughout the puzzle. All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number! To start you off, we reveal the codes for two or three letters. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
FIND THE HIDDEN WORDS BAKER BETROTHAL BROWNIE BUNDLED CAGE CIRCLES CLIPPING COMPREHEND DENOTES DYKES
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30 January 2020 SOUTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 31
HOCKEY P34
THE BEST IN DUBLIN
SPORT
IRELAND’S CALL: RUGBY: OLD WESLEY’S Conor Maguire and Paul Derham have both been named in James Blaney’s Ireland Club XV to play Scotland on Friday night at Netherdale in the first round of the 2020 Club International Series. Maguire will line up in the front row with Derham anchoring the scrum at number eight with both players making their debut at this level.
GAZETTE
GAELIC GAMES P35
PAGE 32
LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS BOXING | BALLYFERMOT MAN ALL SET FOR HUGE MIAMI DATE
Cool hand Luke’s world title contest sport@dublingazette.com
BALLYFERMOT’S Luke Keeler faces world champion Demetrius Andrade on Thursday (January 30) with the WBO middleweight belt on the line, capping a remarkable turnaround. The bout takes place in Miami and will be Keeler’s biggest contest by some distance after an initially meandering career gained focus. And last summer’s big win over highly-rated American Luis Arias in Belfast has brought him to the attention of the Sky Sports cameras. “I suppose I’m a completely different fighter to what I was before I fully committed to the sport and joined up with my trainer Peter Taylor,” he said of the key change in his regimen. “The Luke Keeler who struggled in an Irish title fight in June 2017 would get stopped by the Luke Keeler I am now, so that tells its own story. “I fell back in love with the sport thanks to Pete and I owe him a lot for
this turnaround in my career.” It was at a point when he was considering stepping away from the sport to get a construction company off the ground. He tag-teamed the two professions but felt he needed to give boxing a greater focus if he was to get anything from the sport. “I was struggling with a shoulder injury which I needed surgery to repair, I was in the process of moving to a new house with my two young twin boys and, as a result, I was under a lot of pressure with work. I was thinking about setting up my own company in the building industry, which was booming in Dublin. “I realised I’d have regrets if I didn’t fully focus on boxing and give it my all. The choice was to either retire from boxing and focus on working and home life or take a huge leap of faith and commit to boxing properly for the first time in my life. “I was lucky enough to sign with MTK Global and be guaranteed regu-
Luke Keeler faces Demetrius Andrade with the WBO world title belt on the line in Miami. Picture: Laszlo Geczo
lar fights with a clear plan ahead. It would’ve been hard to give up a wellpaid job without that.” After four strong wins between 2018 and 2019, he now has a dream shot at an even bigger prize. “My motivation was always to win a world title. I have dreamed of that since I first started boxing at the age
of eight. Now, getting to this level of the game, becoming financially free is another motivation because using these pay-days and investing them wisely can secure my family’s future. “I know winning this fight brings life-changing money and I look forward to being able to provide for my family and those closest to me.”
SPORT CONTACT INFO SPORTS EDITOR: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com
For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@dublingazette.com Phone: 01 601 0240
32 DUBLIN GAZETTE SOUTH 30 January 2020
CLUB NOTES
ROUND
1
BALLINTEER ST JOHN’S LOTTO results for Jan 23rd 7,10,13 and 19. Jackpot not won; €100 Kathleen Maher, €50 each Rose Corbally and Mairead Scanlon. Joker Jackpot €675 was won by Terry Carpenter. Bingo each Mon night at 8:00pm. Table Quiz on Friday Jan 31st 8:30pm in aid of Cycle4CF Malin2Mizen 2020. 2020 Membership Fees are now due. They should be paid online at http://www.smartclubcloud.com/ Please email registrations@bsjgaa.com with any queries. Congrats to Niamh Sweeney, called up to the Dublin Senior Football panel to join her colleage Orlagh Nolan. Great to see 20 of our Ladies football coaches commence the first part of the LGFA Award 1 coaching course. BSJ Gala Ball on Feb 1st in The Talbot Hotel. Tickets €65. Text to book tickets - 0879877602/ 0862265783. Tickets will be on sale in the Clubhouse on Sat 25th 12-1pm. Club Shop open Thursday 7.30 p.m. – 8.30 p.m & Saturday 11.30 a.m. – 12.30 p.m.
RUGBY: TOUGH AWAY LOSS TO HIGHFIELD SEES WESLEY LOSE
Wesley duo get Ireland Club XV call-ups CLUB RUGBY sport@dublingazette.com
Our Lady’s NS Ballinteer’s Oisin Malone in action during the Allianz Cumann na mBunscol half time games during the Division 1 match between Dublin and Kerry. Picture: Ben McShane/ Sportsfile
KILMACUD CROKES THE DUBLIN Senior Footballers drew with Kerry, 1.19 to 1.19, in Saturday’s opening Allianz league game. Kilmacud Crokes currently has 9 players involved with Dublin. Cian O’Connor, Rory O’Carroll, Paul Mannion, Liam Flatman, Cian O’Sullivan, Andrew McGowan, Dan O’Brien, Cillian O’Shea and Dara Mullin are all currently on the extended panel. Hard luck to Shane Horan and the Offaly Senior Footballers who lost to Cork, 0.13 to 0.20, in their Division 3 game. The Dublin Senior Ladies drew with Tipperary in their opening game. Well done to Laura Kane who made her intercounty debut at
wing forward. The Crokes representatives involved with the team include Aoife & Laura Kane, Lauren Magee, Cassie Sultan, Amy Conroy, Grace Kos and Eabha Rutledge. Hard luck to the Dublin Senior Hurlers, who lost to Kilkenny, 0.18 to 3.21. Oisin O’Rourke, Ronan Hayes, Marc Howard, Fergal Whitely and Lorcan McMullan are the Crokes players involved. A great night was had by all who attended our 3rd Gala ball on Saturday evening. Well done to all involved in the organization. Details of the U8 to U12 hurling trip can be found on the club web site for those who want to sign up.
OLD WESLEY’S Conor Maguire and Paul Derham have both been named in James Blaney’s Ireland Club XV to play Scotland on Friday night at Netherdale in the first round of the 2020 Club International Series. Maguire will line up in the front row with Derham anchoring the scrum at number eight with both players making their debut at this level. It follows impressive seasons to date in AIL Division 1B as they currently sit second in the table after 11 rounds of matches. They did fall to tabletoppers last weekend to drop six points off the pace but, nonetheless, look well placed to be in range of the promotion playoffs this term with eight wins out of 11 thus far.
Highfield had marginally the better of the opening exchanges although both sides lost a line out each in the first 10 minutes. Wesley did take the lead through a well struck Rory Stynes penalty kick. Straight from the restart, Wesley put in their best move of the day. A typical Tom Kiersey chip kick was gathered by himself on halfway and a perfectly timed pass found Tommy O’Callaghan in space. O’Callaghan, still with a lot of work to do, opened the throttle, sprinting over 40 metres to score a try mid way between the posts and the touchline. Stynes converted and Wesley held a rather flattering 10-0 lead. Highfield fought back and got on the board when they opted for a scrum rather than a penalty and, after some good carries, winger Ben Murphy
crossed for a try. Stynes, in reply, extended the Wesley lead with a penalty kick. But, as halftime approached, Highfield added a penalty and another scrum-option saw the hosts maul over the line for a 13-12 half-time lead. Right from the restart Highfield, looked to have upped a gear, putting the Wesley line-out under pressure.
From quickly recycled ball, out half Shane O’Riordan crossed under the posts for a converted try. At this stage there was nearly a game changing event when referee Chris Busby went down with a leg injury. However both team’s physios came to the rescue and he was able to continue. The hosts survived a yellow card sin-binning and, with 20 minutes to
go, any chance of a Wesley win was disappearing fast. While a penalty chance was missed and Iain McGann stole the ball on his own try-line, Highfield kept coming and got back up to the Wesley line. The ball then went wide for Murphy to score his second try in the corner. To rub salt in the wound the conversion was successful and a 27-13 scoreline was confirmed.
Tonosa leads the way in Raheny
DSDAC’s Hiko Tonosa leads home the field at the Raheny 5 Mile
DSDAC’s Hiko Tonosa – the national champion at 5,000m (track) and 10,000m (road) – confirmed his rankings as number one in Ireland with a hard fought win in the Axa Raheny 5 mile road race on Sunday. It was a top class race with all of the top athletes in Ireland turning up to a well organised race by Raheny Shamrocks. The pace was fast and furious from the gun, with Donore’s John Travers to the fore with Hugh Armstrong, Matt Bergin, Tonosa and Clonliffe’s Efrem Gidey in the leading group. The pace never relented and Travers was the first to feel the pinch as the other four
pushed on into the last mile with a tough climb into Raheny village ahead of them. It was then down to the last 200m and they were still locked together until Tonosa used an incredible finishing kick to carry him through to the finish tape. He missed the course record by one second but did lead the club to team victory with Bergin third, Paul O’Donnell 13th and Emmet Jennings 14th. DSD’s women’s team were in top form also, taking gold in the team race with Fiona Clinton (sixth), Niamh Devlin (13th) and Amy Moran (18th).
30 January 2020 SOUTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 33
GROUND IN AIL 1B
Old Wesley’s Conor Maguire is in the Irish Club XV front row to play Scotland. Picture: Deryck Vincent
WOMEN’S WEEK
Foxrock’s star panel
LORETO College, Foxrock, as part of their Women’s Week, recently held discussion panels with inspirational women including a star-studded sports panel. Dublin ladies football captain Sinead Aherne, hockey panellist and former Irish 7s rugby player Aisling Naughton, Irish Under-19 soccer captain Roisin McGovern, hockey World Cup silver medal winning goalkeeper Grace O’Flanagan and European and Youth Olympic gold medallist Rhasidat Adeleke were all in situ for the panel. Students from the school got to ask them questions and meet with this inspiring bunch of women.
BASKETBALL: PANTHERS PROVIDE NASTY TWIST IN THE TAIL
Meteors struck down HULA HOOPS DIVISION ONE CUP FINAL Portlaoise Panthers Trinity Meteors sport@dublingazette.com
75 71
TRINITY Meteors were caught late on by the Portlaoise Panthers to be denied the Hula Hoops Women’s Division One National Cup title in devastating fashion. The return of Claire Melia at Christmas added an extra element to Portlaoise and it was the inside combination of Melia and MVP Trudy Walker that made the difference as they outdid Meteors by an incredible 41 rebounds. Despite that difference, Trinity managed to stay in the game to the very end by forcing consistent turnovers through the excellence of Lauren Grigsby but it wasn’t to be for Meteors. The first quarter began with a bang as Ciara Wheeler and Lauren Grigsby traded early scores before Portlaoise exerted some early dominance. After a Vinny O’Keefe timeout, Meteors came back out more composed and finished the quarter strongly as a Grigsby three pointer left them trailing 24-15. That lead advanced out to 40-28 as inside duo Melia and Walker were causing huge issues for Meteors. Grigsby kept landing her scores but there was not the same spread as the Panthers who had seven different players register. But the southsiders composed themselves and roared back into contention in the second half with Grigsby continuing her dominant performance offensively. Carolyn Binder also emerged from her shell with back to back steals and fast break lay-ups forcing a Portlaoise timeout. Coming out of the break more good work from Binder and a huge Edel Thornton three had the lead back to just three points with five minutes to go in the quarter. Ciara Byrne broke the run to settle Portlaoise a little but Thornton answered with a beautiful drive to the basket. Kate McDaid was doing excellent work restricting Walker inside while Sarah Kenny,
Meteors Lauren Grigsby tackled by Claire Melia. Picture: Martin Doherty
who had been quiet offensively, then stepped up with a huge three pointer to draw the teams level. Portlaoise eked out a few late free throws, though, for a slender 58-56 going into the final quarter. Trudy Walker continued her impressive display in the fourth, as she scored six of Portlaoise’s first eight points to reopen their lead. Grigsby was still scoring well but Meteors were forced to call a timeout trailing by seven 66-59. A big Ciara Wheeler three-pointer extended the Portlaoise lead to ten, but Kenny was on
hand with a big long-range reply to narrow the deficit. The Trinity duo of Binder and Grigsby again delivered and the lead was back to just three as Portlaoise continued to turn the ball over. Kenny dropped a three to tie it at 69 each inside the last two minutes. But Portlaoise found one last kick, going inside to Melia who got to the free throw line and gave her team back a two-point lead. Meteors had good looks at the basket but couldn’t score and it was up to Irish international star Melia to close the game out on the free throw line as Portlaoise won out 75-71.
UCD Marian unable to contain Kelly MEN’S U-20 CUP FINAL sport@dublingazette.com
UCD Marian could not contain Moycullen’s Paul Kelly as his 36 points were the defining contribution of the Hula Hoops U20 Men’s National Cup final in Tallaght. It helped them secure a 71-65 victory as he also collected 10 rebounds, six assists and two steals. But they had little breathing room throughout as UCD hung with them every step of the way, with Paraic Moran, Eoin McCann and Luke Gilleran in dazzling form, combining for 50 points.
As the fourth quarter ticked towards the final four minutes, it was scores from Tommy McNeela and James Connaire who edged Moycullen out in front by four and, despite the best efforts of an extremely talented Marian team, Moycullen held firm to win out. There was nothing to choose between the sides in the early stages with the Galway side edging in front 19-17 while the halftime margin was 37-33. Four was the gap, too, at the end of the third quarter as the intensity raising a notch. Indeed, a huge Ronan Byrne three-pointer put Marian into a 42-44 point lead at
one stage. But Kelly stepped up once more and, in quick succession, knocked down a big three pointer and a huge drive to put Moycullen back in front as they edged in front 55-51. UCD kept it on a knife-edge as Moran’s three-pointer tied the game with less than five minutes to go. But that would be UCD’s last score of the game as Moycullen pushed on after a timely time out and it was Kelly who had the last say, driving his side across the line from the free throw line to win 71-65.
UCD Marian’s Eoin McCann. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
34 DUBLIN GAZETTE SOUTH 30 January 2020
ROUND
CLUB NOTES
2
NAOMH OLAF WELL done to Naomh Olaf’s Eoin Foley who lined out for a winning UCD Hurling Team in the third round of the Fitzgibbon Cup playing GMIT, Galway recently, and made a really great account of himself having a super game. The team are now busy preparing for the upcoming quarter final and we wish them the very best of luck. On Friday 7th February, the first Business Network Breakfast will be held in the function room of the club. The breakfast aims to build business connections and relationships and will be held on the first Friday of each month from 7.15am until 8.30am. For further information, please contact Club Manager, Paul Lyons on 085-2525356. Sunday 2nd February sees the first league football matches of the year being played at Páirc Uí Bhriain with both Under 15 Boys teams in action Division 4 playing Naomh Mearnóg and Division 7 playing Templeogue Synge Street. The Academy for 2020 is up and running and there’s still space for new boys and girls. The boys academy takes place on Saturday morning - 10am for boys born in 2013, 11am for boys born in 2014/15. The girls academy takes place on Sunday morning - 10am for girls born in 2013, 11am for girls born in 2014/15/16. Academies will take place in the indoor sports hall during the winter months and equipment is provided so just drop in with your little one to let them try it out - lots of fun and new friendships are waiting! Naomh Olaf continues the Ireland Lights Up walking initiative with walkers setting off from the Club on Mondays and Thursdays at 7pm. Everyone is very welcome to join Jenny, Audrey and the gang for a walk and a nice warm cuppa in the clubhouse afterwards. The Club Shop is open on Saturday (10.30am to 12.00pm) and on Wednesday and Thursday evenings (6.30pm to 7.30pm). Naomh Olaf Producers Market continues every Friday morning from 8.30am - definitely worth popping in to see the fabulous fresh produce on offer.
The Shankill juvenile academy is back in action for 2020
SHANKILL THE CLUB Chase the Ace Sunday night draw in Brady’s there was no winner of the jackpot and the €50 prize went to M McBrien. This week’s jackpot is €1600. Tickets are €2 each or 3 for €5 available in the pub. Operation Transformation walks continues this Thursday. Meet at 6.45pm at St Anne’s resource centre. Gaelic 4 Mothers & Others, a group has been set up catering for all ages, all abilities, no experience of GAA games necessary. This is a fun social group and its FREE. The venue is Scoil Mhuire from 7pm to 8pm on Tuesday nights, PM us on Facebook or contact Steve 087 6414123. All of our under age teams are back in full training if you have any questions contact your team coach. Our Adult Ladies and Men’s teams are already preparing for next year. If you would like to join us and represent your Village see
below for details. The juvenile Academy which is for boys and girls from 4 to 7 years of age and sponsored by O Donnell’s Shankill Total Health Pharmacy is in action at 10.00am on Saturdays in St Anne’s, Rathmichael and Scoil Mhuire National Schools. The cost is only €2 per child there is no annual subscription and all equipment is provided free of charge. For details of our Ladies adult football teams e-mail stevedavis203@gmail.com or contact Steve Davis 087 6414123. The men’s adult football team contact Kevin Martin 086 8449902. For more information on the club, contact, secretary.shankill.dublingaa.ie or call 086 6072746. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Join Shankill GAA Club, your community, your Village GAA club, where we all belong.
HOCKEY: FOURTH LEINSTER TITLE IN FIVE YEARS
Walker in an indoor Rovers wonderland LEINSTER INDOOR FINAL
Three Rock Rovers 14 Railway Union 7 STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@dublingazette.com
THREE Rock Rovers survived an almighty semifinal scare to retain the Leinster men’s indoor league title and keep alive hopes of a fourth National Indoor Trophy in succession. They trailed Monkstown 5-4 but nailed a lastsecond penalty corner move to Daragh Walsh to earn a shoot-out chance. There, veteran goalkeeper Shane Davey came up trumps with a series of vital saves to put them through to a final date with Railway Union, 6-5 winners over YMCA in their semi. It was the second successive year they survived by the skin of their teeth having been on the brink of elimination a year ago against Glenanne at the same stage. It ultimately paved the way for their fourth provincial title in the last five years. In the final, the tie was wide open from the outset with both sides missing Irish internationals – Stephen O’Keeffe and Ross Canning – to illness. Jody Hosking flicked in
Three Rock Rovers’ Leinster indoor league winning side
a stunning reverse-stick finish and then profited from Mark English’s reverse pass for 2-0. English had already saved off the line against his old club in a rousing opening but Railway got on the board when Fergal Keaveney picked out the late arriving Michael Fulham for a tip-in. Walsh finished off a Dylan Shirley cross for 3-1 after the first quarter. Bruce Thompson and Bjorn Daase’s corner levelled it at 3-3 but Rovers quickly replied through Ben Walker – the first of his six goals – and Hosk-
BADMINTON De La Salle the Leinster champs
DE LA SALLE Churchtown’s Under-19A badminton team claimed a schools double, beating Blackrock College 4-2 to land the Dublin title before securing the Leinster crown this week in Baldoyle. There, they swept by Offaly’s Banagher College 6-0 before pulling through 4-2 against Colaiste Mhuire from Johnstown, Co Kilkenny. A repeat 4-2 win over Blackrock set up a potential clean sweep and they duly saw off St Mary’s, Drogheda 6-0. The team was captained by Conor Bradley with Jakub Kowalczyk, Maverick Labastilla, Evan Morton and Russel Flores forming the team. The All-Ireland’s are on March 25.
ing’s stroke for 5-3. Jeremy McKeever and Shirley traded goals and then Thompson and Hosking swapped scores for 7-5 at half-time in a goal-fest. But Rovers took control in the second half as Railway’s shortened bench of three subs began to take its toll against a deeper Rovers line-up. Harry Morris’s spin and flick put three goals between the sides for the first time. Eoin MacArthur had a goal disallowed for a corner never leaving the circle and Rovers scored within
a few seconds through Walker. Hosking made it 10-5; Daase cut that lead to 10-6 from a stroke but Walker went on to score four times in three minutes to well and truly make the game safe. Keaveney got one back on the hooter. Both sides advance to next Sunday’s national semi-finals with Railway facing Munster champions Limerick and Rovers up against the winners from Ulster, Banbridge, who beat Queen’s and Co o ks tow n o n t h e i r return to indoor action.
30 January 2020 SOUTH DUBLIN GAZETTE 35
GAELIC GAMES: CABINTEELY MAN’S MAD-CAP TOUR WITH FAMOUS TROPHIES FOOTBALL
Bohan laments missed chances in Tipp tie LIDL LGFA DIVISION 1 Dublin Tipperary CÓILÍN DUFFY
Sam Maguire visiting Guardian Angels’ montessori
Staff members at the National Rehabilitation Hospital get their hands on the famous trophy
Dropping in at Loreto Foxrock
With the Brendan Martin Cup at Cabo’s clubhouse
Both Brendan Martin and Sam Maguire were visitors to the Grange, Deansgrange
Students at Holy Child Sallynoggin welcome Sam Maguire to the school
Sam’s whistle-stop tour of the southside C Dublin Gazette sports editor Stephen Findlater, Cabinteely GAA’s Barry Rojack and the Gazette’s group editor Cóilín Duffy
ABINTEELY GAA’S Barry Rojack embarked on a whistle-stop tour of the southside with the Sam Maguire and Brendan Martin Cups in tow, stopping off pictures with allcomers along the way last week.
Along his route, he took in stops at Cabinteely’s clubhouse in Kilbogget Park, the National Rehabilitation Hospital, the Guardian Angels’ Montessori and national schools, Holy Child Community School in Sallynoggin, Loreto College
Foxrock, the High 5 Play Cafe, Smith Auto Development in Sallynoggin, Twomey’s SuperValu, Baker’s Corner and The Grange in Deansgrange not to mention a brief stop-off in the Dublin Gazette offices in Dundrum.
0-10 1-7
A 65TH minute equaliser by Aishling Moloney denied Dublin of a win in their opening round Lidl Ladies Football League Division 1 clash with Tipperary at Ballyboden St Enda’s last Sunday. In a tie where Ballinteer St John’s Niamh Sweeney and Kilmacud Crokes Laura Kane made debuts, Tipp looked likely winners for large periods. “I thought we had the winning of it,” Dublin manager Mick Bohan told Dublin Gazette. “Obviously the first half was very disappointing from our end. The approach, the work-rate, the stuff we’ve come accustomed to. “They turned that around, in fairness. The second half approach was completely different from the group. Then a little bit of composure. We had the game won and we ran into traffic twice to turn the ball over. “We’d expect those decisions to be made better. It’s a learning curve, but it cost us the three points [for the win]. Anyway, that’s the way it is.” The visitors led by 1-4 to 0-2 at half-time, with top-scorer Moloney (1-6) grabbing the games only goal, after latching on to the end of a long delivery. Things improved in the second half as the strength with Carla Rowe, Leah Caffrey, Kate Sullivan and Niamh Collins scoring to earn a lead before Moloney’s late-late score.
GazetteSPORT JAN 30 - FEB 5, 2020
ALL OF YOUR SOUTH DUBLIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 31-35
WESLEY DUO IN IRISH PANEL RUGBY:
Southside club drop off the pace in AIL Division 1B but still bouyed by Irish calls for forward pair. SEE P32
ROVERS LAND INDOOR TITLE HOCKEY: Three Rock Rovers won their fourth Leinster crown in five years with hopes of AllIreland title. SEE P34
UCD AND METS DENIED BASKETBALL:
No final joy for local clubs as UCD Marian and Meteors come unstuck. SEE P33
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Farrell hails character after feisty Kerry draw
CÓILÍN DUFFY
sport@dublingazette.com
THE BIGGEST GAA attendance of the year gathered in Croke Park on Saturday night, as a David Clifford pointed free in the 10th minute of injury-time secured a share of the spoils in this Round 1 Allianz Football League clash. 42,502 gathered for a repeat pairing of last years All-Ireland Senior Football Final, with both sides as expected going toe-to-toe, with an interesting encounter produced. Entering the closing 10 minutes of this contest, it looked like Kerry might take the win, after they pulled three points clear. But Dublin showed great character to dig in, and placed themselves in a position where the first win under new boss Dessie Farrell could have been on the cards. Dean Rock slotted over his sixth pointed free seven minutes into injury-time to put his side a point clear, before Clifford’s late-late equaliser. Dublin started superbly and led by 0-5 to 0-1 after 14 minutes, with Conor McHugh and Dean Rock on target. An 18th minute David Clifford goal brought matters level, but in the 31st minute a Rock penalty goal pushed Dublin to a 1-8 to 1-6 lead. That gap was cut to the minimum at the break, with Dublin reduced to 14 players at
New Dublin boss Dessie Farrell Picture: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
“Somehow they summoned the energy from
somewhere and showed great character going down the back straight to get their noses in front“ this stage after a black card for Eric Lowndes in injury-time. On the restart, the sides continued to be we l l m a tc h e d , w i t h plenty of drama in an elongated injury-time. Dublin manager Dessie Farrell was high on praise for the character shown by his side. “Obviously you want to try and get out of the blocks fairly lively and
it was also a question of the players that were available to us as well,” he said. “So it was a mixture of experience and youth and I think it served us well at the end. “It looked at that stage that the game was kind of sliding away from us a little bit. There was sort of not much energy coming from our lads at that particular point in time.
“But somehow they summoned the energy from somewhere and showed great character going down the back straight to get the ir noses in front at the death. “The dynamic between players and new management and trying to bed that down and have that as robust as we possibly can, get our structures in place,
get our processes in place. “So it’s all very new to both parties at this point in time.” Next up is an away date in Mayo, a reignition of one of the modern era’s enduring rivalries next Saturday evening (7pm, MacHale Park). D u b l i n b e a t M ayo twice last year, winning the ir Allianz League clash by 1-12 to 0-7 and
the All-Ireland semifinal by 3-14 to 1-10. Mayo are seeking their first win over Dublin in Allianz League or championship since the 2012 All-Ireland semi-final. S i n ce t h e n D u b l i n have won 12 and drawn three of the 15 meetings between the counties. The curtain-raiser on Saturday is the Ladies FL Division 1 clash of Mayo and Dublin (5pm).