South

DublinGazette SOUTH EDITION

FREE

WHEREVER YOU ARE IN THE DLR AREA, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED  DECEMBER 14-25, 2017

DublinGazette SOUTH EDITION

FREE WHEREVER YOU ARE IN THE DLR AREA, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED  DECEMBER 14-25, 2017 FREE FITNESS CHRISTMAS

Eat, drink – and be healthy, with our great new section to help you feel your best Page 23

BELLES RACHEL Grainger, Lisa O’Sullivan and Carol Sanderson looked very stylish as they gave their support to a Christmas lunch in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation.

A host of supporters and celebrities gathered for the delicious do at The Shelbourne, where Brian and Pippa Ormond, Shane Byrne, Lorraine Keane and many others were happy to help. For the full gallery, see inside.

Picture: Shane O’Neill

PAGE18 RUGBY Cullen ready to chop and change P33

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

Find us on

LOCAL RESIDENSTS EXPRESSED CONCERN OVER THE VACATED UNITS

Vacant Stillorgan homes finally set for restoration

 EMMA NOLAN THE empty homes at St Laurence’s Park in Stillorgan are finally set to be examined for redevelopment – as the homeless crisis continues to worsen. The council confirmed that the cul-de-sac of 16 maisonette style houses are set to be assessed this month with the See Page 4 aim to provide social housing at the site.

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 14 December 2017

STILLORGAN | VACANT BEDSITS WERE BRANDED ‘UNACCEPTABLE’

Empty houses set to finally be redeveloped  EMMA NOLAN THE vacant and boardedup houses at St Laurence’s Park in Stillorgan are set to finally be redeveloped.

Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council confirmed last week that the cul-de-sac of 16 maisonette style houses are being examined for future redevelopment.

The units previously consisted of 16 one-bed apartments and were designated as senior citizen units. Now, just two residents remain.

Last year, plans to demolish the homes to build a swimming pool to replace the closed Glenalbyn Pool were scrapped.

Calls to refurbish the houses have long been made by many local representatives, who have branded the vacancies “unacceptable”.

“A number of people in the area have contacted me about the site expressing concern over the vacated units that have been boarded up,” Cllr Deirdre Donnelly (Ind) told Dublin Gazette.

“I was told by council officials that the houses were being vacated so that the site could be redeveloped. I wasn’t happy about the vagueness of this proposal which has been under discussion for some time and insisted on a specific date for news of

the site.”

Council management announced last week that this housing and nearby library site is being examined to see the potential for the re-development of the area.

The aim is to provide a new modern library and an increased number of social housing units on the existing site.

A topographical survey has been carried out and an engineer has been appointed to carry out site investigations. These investigations will be commencing on December 18.

Cllr Donnelly said she welcomes the plans but needs some guarantees.

“If the area is suitable

The vacant and boarded-up houses at St Laurence’s Park

for redevelopment and new modern homes will be built alongside a stateof-the-art library to cater for the community, then I would most certainly welcome this news,” she said.

“If however, the site is deemed unsuitable then I would insist on the refurbishment of the boarded

Charity launches Christmas Sandal appeal THE Mission to End Leprosy is launching its Christmas appeal for a donation of just €3 which will provide sandals for some of the poorest people in the world who are affected by leprosy.

The Mission To End Leprosy now have a wooden Christmas tree on display in Bailey & Pim, Lower George’s Street, Dun Laoghaire decorated with sandal keyrings.

The Mission To End Leprosy is calling on you to buy a keyring for just €3 to provide someone in need with sandals this Christmas.

When you purchase a keyring, you will be given a tag to hang on the tree in its place which will show your support for this worthy cause.

up units as they exist to help relieve the housing crisis.”

Minister Shane Ross said: “I am heartened to hear that the council is finally taking steps to redevelop the houses. Any waste of valuable housing space in our community is a travesty.”

FASTNews

Concern as developers appeal decision on controversial plan

MOUNT Merrion residents have expressed their concern that developers of last year’s controversial Thornhill House development have appealed to An Bord Pleanala (ABP).

The application sought permission to construct 47 residential units on the grounds of Thornhill House in Cherrygarth and was rejected by the council earlier this year.

Now, the developers are appealing this decision to ABP but local residents insist that the plans are unsuitable for the area.

It is adjacent to the Oatlands site, which was granted planning permission from ABP this year for 63 residential units.

The Mount Merrion Residents Association say that the plans are “unsustainable when taken in conjunction with the Oatlands development located less than 50 meters away”.

“The cumulative impact of an additional 100 plus residences in such a small area is unsustainable.

“This will radically change the character of the area and negatively impact on the existing residents,” a spokesperson said.

The proposal, lodged by Chartered Town Planners and Development, consists of a three- to four-story apartment block comprising 37 apartments and 14 three-storey semi-detached or terraced houses.

14 December 2017 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

WORLD-WIDE CAMPAIGN | ENDING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS

County Hall lights up to end gender-based violence  EMMA NOLAN D U N L AO GH A I R E County Hall lit up last week as part of a worldwide campaign to highlight gender-based violence.

Last week was the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women by the European Institute for Gender Equality which marked the beginning if a UN global campaign of 16 days of activism to end violence against women and girls.

This year, the campaign will mark the 16 Days of Activism against GenderBased Violence under the overarching theme, “Leave

No One Behind: End Violence against Women and Girls”— reflecting the core principle of the transformative 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Cllr Deirdre Donnelly (Ind) asked the council if it would participate by lighting up county hall.

She told Dublin Gazette: “To create more awareness the government and other public buildings are encouraged to light up with an orange colour at some stage throughout the 16 days.

“I approached the Cathaoirleach, Cllr Tom Murphy, and council management about the possibility of lighting up the County Hall and am

County Hall shows its support for ending gender-based violence by going orange

delighted that they have agreed to do so on Sunday December 10.

“One in three women and girls experience violence in their lifetime and there is an assumption

that this happens mainly in countries during time of conflict or parts of the world where there is extreme poverty. Sadly the EU statistics and the figures for this country are

quite startling.

“I really believe that violence against women globally is unacceptable and am delighted that the council will play its part in supporting the cam-

paign against it.”

The theme reinforces the commitment to a world free from violence for all women and girls around the world, while reaching the most underserved and marginalized, including refugees, migrants, minorities, indigenous peoples, and populations affected by conflict and natural disasters, amongst others, first.

As in previous years, the colour orange will be a key theme unifying all activities, and buildings and landmarks will be lit and decorated in orange to bring global attention to the issue of violence against women and girls.

FASTNews

Recycling workshops

MANY of us are confused about what can and cannot be recycled in our recycling bins. Recycling symbols, varied messages and different coloured bins have all contributed to this confusion. This means we don’t always know what is recyclable and what is not.

VOICE Ireland’s Recycling Ambassador Programme was launched last month by Minister Denis Naughten with a new and clearer message about what you can now recycle in your household recycling bin in Ireland.

The programme is delivering free interactive workshops to groups and local events sharing the information face to face with the public.

See Facebook, for more details of the programme and to learn more about recycling.

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 14 December 2017

DUN LAOGHAIRE | CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH BACK FOR THE 31ST YEAR IN A ROW

Making sure Christmas day is not a lonely one  EMMA NOLAN

Pictured is Margaret Browne being given a prestigious An Taisce Ocean Hero award

THE annual Dun Laoghaire Christmas Day lunch is back this year for the 31st year in a row.

Run by local activist Margaret Brown, the lunch takes place every year for people who live alone.

“It is just for people who have nowhere else to go on Christmas Day,” Margret tells Dublin Gazette.

“Christmas can be lonely and isolating, it is at this time when the pain of people who are no longer with them and who is gone forever is felt more, especially if they have lost a loved one the year before.

“It is impossible to explain how hard Christmas is for people on their own on the very day when everyone else is sharing gifts and delicious food with their families and friends around them.”

Taking place in Blackrock Rugby Club this year, the lunch is expected to cater to around 300 people.

Bookings and calls have been received since

early October from people wishing to attend and volunteers will also be delivering traditional dinners to a further 60 people at the CrossCare Bentley House Homeless Hostel.

“The lunch is organised on a totally voluntary basis and prepared and served by wonderful volunteers,” Margaret says.

“Our thanks to the

Blackrock College RFC, the lovely club room which is given to us free of charge.

Transport is supplied

by Ed Kenny Coaches and volunteer drivers, and the music is by William Byrne.”

On St Stephen’s Day any perishable foods will be donated to the Peter McVerry Trust.

FASTNews

Exhibitions announced at DLR Lexicon A NEW series of exhibition programmes has been announced for 2018 in the Municipal Gallery in the DLR Lexicon.

The first exhibition will show work by sisters Diana and Shirley Copperwhite and will be the first time that they have exhibited together.

In June, local artist Julie Merriman will examine the mechanics of drawing and its relation to written and programmed languages.

The final show of 2018 is curated by John Daly of Hillsboro Fine Art and brings together three of Irelands finest contemporary paintersSinead Ni Mhaonaigh, Eddie Kennedy and Patrick Graham.

Media Cube marks 10 years

The invitation for the annual Dun Laoghaire Christmas Day lunch

THE incubation centre at IADT Dun Laoghaire known as The Media Cube celebrated 10 years of success last week.

The Media Cube supports high potential start-ups in technology, creative and culture sectors.

Originally established in 2007, the Media Cube has supported 80 successful companies which have generated 756 jobs and raised €25 million in equity.

Dr Annie Donna, President of IADT (centre), Jessica Fuller (left) and Ann Marie Phelan at IDAT pictured with Media Cube birthday cake. Picture: Brian Farrell

14 December 2017 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

Christmas GUIDE

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH

14 December 2017

GIFT

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL THE DUBLIN GAZETTE ON 01-6010240

14 December 2017 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 14 December 2017

SPECIAL CEREMONY | LOCAL INSPIRATIONAL YOUNG PEOPLE ARE HONOURED

South Dublin winners take home Gold Gaisce awards FOUR inspirational young people from South Dublin received the prestigious Gaisce Gold Award from President Michael D Higgins at a special ceremony last week.

Heather Rainey, Anna Lawless, Aneesa Smith and Conor Waters were among 55 young people from across Ireland who received their Gold Award

President Higgins with Anna Lawless.

Pictures: Maxwell Photography

Heather Rainey

on the day. Between them they dedicated more than 12,000 hours to receiving their awards.

Heather Rainey from Killiney decided to go for the Gold award because she knew Gaisce brought out the best in her from

completing her Bronze and Silver award. For her Gaisce Journey she volunteered with the Special Olympics for her Community Involvement and improved her media production knowledge for her Personal Skill.

Anna Lawless from Glenageary was drawn to Gaisce because of the opportunity it provided and how it encouraged her to try new things and challenge herself.

For her Community Involvement, she spent one evening a week running maths revision class for junior and leaving certificate students, she took up drawing for her Personal Skill and Coastal

Aneesa Smith

Rowing for her Physical Recreation.

For her Residential Project, Aneesa Smith from Foxrock, attended Euro Languages College for three weeks to study Spanish and for her Community Involvement she continued to volunteer with Oxfam which she had done for

ABC CERTIFIED 52,958 COPIES EACH WEEK (ABC: Group MFD, Jan–Dec 2015)

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 01 60 10 240

her Bronze and Silver Awards.

Conor Waters from Blackrock learned Diablo and other circus tricks such as juggling, riding a unicycle and balloonmaking for his Personal Skill.

He learned how to rock climb and ice climb for his Physical Recreation and plans to continue honing his skills and become a climbing leader.

For his Adventure Journey Conor and his friend went from Marlay Park to Hollywood in Wicklow meeting snow and icy conditions on their journey.

“Today marks the conclusion of a journey – a journey in which you

tested yourselves, through your thoughts and actions, first discovering and then surpassing your own limits,” President Higgins said at the ceremony.

“It was a journey in which you demonstrated not only a personal determination, but also a commitment to the service of your communities and of your fellow citizens.”

Conor Waters

FASTNews

Tree-mendous win for Daniel DANIEL English of St Laurence’s Boys National School, Stillorgan, was crowned the Recycled Christmas Decoration Champion at the 15th Annual Award Ceremony.

Daniel was one of 37 School Champions in attendance at County Hall hoping to be crowned the Overall Champion, but it was Daniel’s Christmas tree design made from plastic spoons which impressed the judges the most and helped ladle up the top prize! Picture: Peter Cavanagh

14 December 2017 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 14 December 2017

Out and About

Fran Hemergen, Margaret Cullen and Sophie Mallon. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Vivienne Connolly

Festive fundraiser Laura and Geraldne Mullett

I

Ide O Brien and Clodagh Edwards

Elma Byrne and Aine Casey

Sandra Baker, Orla Hennigan and Fiona O’Neill

T was a glamorous affair of style and inspiration in Marco Pierre White, Courtyard Restaurant, Donnybrook at the Breast Cancer Ireland Christmas Lunch, which raised over €22,000, after costs, to support research into breast cancer and fund awareness programmes around the country. Supported by Meaghers Pharmacies, the event was MC’d by TV3 presenter and producer Elaine Crowley who is an ambassador for the charity and included a fashion show hosted

by Cathy O’Connor and beauty advice from Triona McCarthy.

Local generosity helps to sustain Cancer service THANKS to the generosity and support from the people in South County Dublin, local Cancer Support organisation Purple House Cancer Support has been able to help 84 newly-diagnosed families in the Dun Laoghaire and surrounding areas.

In 2017, the charity provided 1,965 Cancer Support sessions from their Cancer Support group in the drl Lexicon Library and Cancer Support Centre in Bray, County Wicklow.

Purple House Cancer Support provide a monthly Cancer Support Group on the first Tuesday of each month from 6.30pm7.30pm in the Lexicon Library Dun Laoghaire (no group in January 2018), as well as a full time Cancer Support Centre in Bray which will close for the Christmas holiday from Friday, December 22 and reopen on Tuesday, January 2, 2018.

14 December 2017 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

GAZETTE

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS

Students take first steps on career ladder STUDENTS from three Dublin schools recently

Beaumont.

Special guest Jason

graduated from the

Sherlock congratulated

Junior Achievement Ire-

the students on taking

land (JAI) Career Ready

their first steps in to the

programme.

world of work. He also

The programme was

emphasised the impor-

hosted by Citi on North

tance of role models and

Wall Quay, Dublin 1.

of achieving your goals.

To mark the comple-

“The guidance and

tion of the two-year pro-

encouragement of men-

gramme, the students

tors and role models

were joined by business

really can make a

It was an early start for the Failte Ireland’s Dublin Convention Bureau when they held their Christmas Breakfast Briefing at the CityWest

mentors, representa-

profound difference in

Hotel. Pictured, left to right, were Sam Johnston, manager of Failte Ireland’s Dublin Convention Bureau; David Meade, inspirational speaker;

tives of supporting

a young person’s life. I

Paul Mockler, head of commercial development, Failte Ireland; and Sean Reid, commercial director, of the CityWest Hotel

organisations, and

know this from my own

former Dublin GAA star

personal experience,”

Jason Sherlock.

he said.

Conventions to boost local economy by €64m

Career Ready devel-

“To the participating

ops students’ potential

students I say take the

by pairing them with a

skills and confidence you

mentor for 18 months.

have gained from Career

The youngsters also

Ready and build on them,

visit workplaces, attend

allow the programme to

master classes and

be the catalyst for you to

complete work place-

fulfil your potential.

ments.

The overall aims of the JAI Career Ready initiative are to help stu-

“With the right attitude you can do anything you set your mind to.”

The Career Ready

dents to recognise their

mentors, master

potential, to develop

classes, and school-to-

their employability skills,

work visits were pro-

support their academic

vided by A & L Goodbody,

work and introduce

Accenture, Amundi, BNY

them to the world of

Mellon, Citi, Core Media,

work.

Dell, Deloitte, Diageo,

The 2015-2017 cohort

EisnerAmper Ireland,

comprised of 29 stu-

Gaiety School of Acting,

dents from St. Paul’s

LinkedIn, JLL, Lloyds

CBS, North Brunswick St;

Bank, Manpower, Pfizer,

Loreto College, Crumlin;

SQS, Standard Life, and

and Our Lady of Mercy,

TV3.

FAILTE Ireland’s Dublin Convention Bureau has revealed that new business worth €64m has been won for Dublin so far in 2017.

The announcement was made at their Christmas Breakfast Briefing in the CityWest Hotel last Thursday.

The revenue boost was a result of winning 150 new conferences for the city and county.

The events will bring almost

45,000 extra visitors to Dublin between 2018 and 2021.

Among the notable conference wins is the cyclist gathering, Velo City.

Around 2,000 delegates are expected to attend the European Cyclists’ Federation convention in 2019, boosting the Dublin economy by €3.2 million.

Also taking place in 2019 is the World Science Fiction Convention, or World Con, and

the 5,000 or so sci-fi fans who will flock to Dublin will generate around €8m for local businesses.

While in 2020, a cash injection of €1.3m is expected when 800 people attend the European Federation of Periodontology’s 3rd Master Clinic.

Sam Johnston, manager of Failte Ireland’s Dublin Convention Bureau said: “I am delighted that the Dublin Convention

Enterprise Ireland launches fund to help firms tackle Brexit challenges ENTERPRISE Ireland has launched a new fast-track Agile Innovation Fund to give companies rapid access to innovation funding.

The new measure has been introduced by Enterprise Ireland for companies to respond more quickly to market opportunities and challenges, including those posed by Brexit.

Offering fast-track approval and a streamlined online application process, Enterprise Ireland’s new Agile Innovation Fund will allow companies to access up to 50% in support for product, process or service development projects with a total cost of up to €300,000.

A survey of 2,000 Enterprise Ireland clients in 2016 found

that those who availed of innovation supports (specifically capability, funding and collaboration support) reported on average a 67% growth in global sales.

Julie Sinnamon, Enterprise Ireland CEO, said: “In the context of Brexit, investment in Irish innovation will prove to be a key driver of global growth for Irish companies, helping them to diversify their product base, be competitive, and allow them to build their scale and reach into new markets.

“Historically, Enterprise Ireland client companies who have received funding to build their innovation capability have seen tangible exponential growth in their global sales performance.

“Investment in innovation delivers for businesses.

“Enter prise Ireland has designed and tailored this new fund to precisely meet the needs of Irish companies – substantial financial support for innovation, localisation and product development, a streamlined online application and a fast-track approval process.

“Enterprise innovation is a key differentiator in competitive markets and Enterprise Ireland’s Agile Innovation Fund will assist companies in their innovation agenda.

“This fund will enable many Irish companies to respond quickly and effectively to the challenges posed for their business by Brexit.”

Bureau has hit its target for 2017.

We have worked extensively throughout the year to bring available international business to Dublin.

“Indeed, looking ahead we are forecasting strong growth for 2018 and in fact we are currently targeting business as far out as 2026. Dublin is and will continue to be a competitive and attractive place to hold international events.”

Women can get their start-ups off to real flier APPLICATIONS have opened for Dublin City University’s prestigious Female High Fliers accelerator programme.

Run by the DCU Ryan Academy for Entrepreneurs, the 13-week programme supports Ireland’s most promising female-led start-ups.

Previous High Flier graduates include Ciara Garvin, founder, Work Juggle (2017); Pamela Newenham, cofounder, GirlCrew (2016); Mary O’Brien, co-founder, Video Doc (2016); and Ciara Donlon, founder and CEO, Theya Healthcare (2015).

The closing date for applications is January 23.

See www.ryanacademy.ie/ portfolio/female-high-fliers.



GAZETTE

DUBLINLIFE

14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

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

FAMILIES: THE COOLEST CHRISTMAS ATTRACTION IN TOWN IS BACK AT THE RDS

Have an ice time at Funderland FAMILIES across the city are looking forward to an extra sprinkle of Christmas magic over the coming months, thanks to Winter Funderland.

The beloved Dublin institution is now running from today (Thursday, December 14) until next January 14, with organisers promising an even bigger and better experience than ever.

In addition to a terrific range of activities that really put the fun in Funderland, a Christmas market and ice skating rink are in

place to make Funderland the coolest place to be this Christmas.

For kids of all ages, but especially for children, dozens of attractions from all across Europe have been brought together at the Simmonscourt Pavilion in the RDS, where Funderland is welcoming people of all ages to join in the fun.

The all-new Santa’s Family Roller Coaster is just one of the thrilling experiences awaiting visitors, with some family favourites also ready and waiting to whisk, whirl,

twirl and thrill everyone.

This year’s Christmas market, and pretty wooden chalets, offer plenty of treats and trinkets to help find the perfect gift for loved ones (or even just for yourself), while the iSkate-on-ice – Ireland’s largest 1,000 sq m outdoor skating rink – will slip and slide right into the top spot in many visitors’ list of favourites.

Funderland has been a highlight of Christmas for Dubs for decades, with the addition of new rides and even more great attractions

promising to make it a hit with all ages for many more years to come.

With a range of price points, from wristbands to traditional pay-per-ride options, the organisers have done their best to create an affordable and varied experience for everyone, all under one roof.

For further information, including the full list of rides and attractions, see w w w.winter funderland. ie, or call 01 485 3045; for group bookings call 01 685 2439.

People of all ages are in for a real treat, with organisers adding a giant outdoor ice rink to the fun family favourite

GAZETTE

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017

DUBLINLIFE

ON THE RED-CARPET: ADULT LEARNERS’ FESTIVAL 2018 WILL OPEN WITH AWARDS CEREMONY

Aontas launches search for new galaxy of STARs AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation, is seeking nominations from adult learning initiatives in Dublin for the 12th Annual STAR Awards 2018.

The awards recognise the use of innovative approaches in adult and community education.

Speaking about the awards, Niamh O’Reilly, Chief Executive Officer of AONTAS, said: “Adult learning is essential to both economic success and to personal, social

and cultural development. “ Eve r y y e a r, t h e STAR Awards are a fantastic occasion to highlight and celebrate the positive impact adult and community education have on the lives of learners around Ireland.

“Our award categories focus on promoting wellbeing, social inclusion, digital inclusion, and ensuring that the learner’s voice is heard.

“These award categories highlight the huge positive impact adult

and community education have on an individual, their family and the wider community.”

Since its inception in 2007, more than 1,000 adult learning initiatives in the arts, mental health, addiction, and disability have been recognised through the STAR Awards.

For 2018, nominations are invited under four categories: Adult L e a r n i n g I n i t i a t i ve s that Promote Wellbeing, Adult Learning Initiatives that Promote

Digital Inclusion, Adult Learning Initiatives that Promote Social Inclusion, and Adult Learning Initiatives that Promote the Learner Voice To n o m i n a t e a n adult learning initiative, please visit: www. adultlearnersfestival. awardsplatform.com.

The deadline for receipt of nominations is December 14.

Winners will be announced at the STAR Aw a r d s c e r e m o ny, which will be the opening event of the Adult Learners’ Festival 2018 in Dublin. The festival begins on March 5 and runs until March 9.

GOING FOR IT WITH €300,000 IN GRANTS A TOTAL of 1,118 groups across Ireland are celebrating the awarding of grants to fund physical activity for older people.

The Go for Life National Grant Scheme from Age & Opportunity and Sport Ireland last week announced grants totalling almost €300,000.

The aim of the grants is to improve the health and wellbeing of older people across the country by providing them with opportunities to engage in physical activity and sport.

Groups benefitting this year include Men’s Sheds, ICA guilds, active retirement groups, local sports partnerships, sports clubs, family resource centres, and many others who provide older people with opportunities to get active.

Announcing the successful grantees at the Ballybough Community Centre, Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Brendan Griffin said: “Over the last 17

years, the National Grant Scheme funding has supported and empowered thousands of groups of older people to get more active more often and the record number of applications this year shows the continued importance of the scheme for groups throughout the country.

“Programmes like Go for Life, funded by Sport Ireland, will help us reach the targets set out in the National Physical Activity Plan and approximately 30,000 people nationwide will take part in the activities funded by the grants. “ The scheme has awarded over €5.5million in almost 12,000 grants during its lifetime.

This year saw a record number of applications and of grants awarded.

The number of groups applying continues to grow since the launch of the scheme in 2001.

BEAT COLD TURKEY ON CHRISTMAS DAY A DUBLIN psychology clinic has launched a free service for people with a fear of turkey.

The D4 Psychology Clinic in Blackrock, which specialises in clinical hypnotherapy, recently hit the headlines when they helped people overcome their fear of clowns when the horror movie IT was released.

After a woman from Manchester beat her turkey fear with hypnosis, the clinic is offering a free online session for anyone with a similar phobia.

Speaking about the free service psychologist, Jason O’Callaghan said: “This is not just about a fear of turkey which stops people enjoying Christmas dinner. It’s an issue called

The All Ireland Public Speaking Champions 2017 were Kings of the Hill 16. Pictured, from left, were Teresa Mackin from sponsors Triace Hardware, Macra na Feirme national president James Healy, with competition winners Bryan Tully, Sally Rochford and Grace Stenson

14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

selective eating disorder.

This is a gagging relax that happens when you try new foods.

“Most of these clients live on chips or chicken nuggets or pizza.

“They have a fear of eating foods like turkey in case they choke. “ We h ave h e l p e d countless people using hypnosis.

“One lady lived on potato waff les and another man lived on spaghetti hoops.

“Both were cured with one session. If anyone wants a free downloadable session to overcome this just contact us at The D4 Clinic.”

For more information see www.D4Clinic.ie.

IT’S THE RIGHT ONE FOR ABBEY THEATRE THE Abbey Theatre has announced two weeks of extra dates for their

main winter season production, Let the Right One In. The world-class creative team behind the production includes Tony and Olivier awardwinning director John Tiffany and two-time BAFTA Award-winning writer Jack Thorne, who are also the creators of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

Let the Right One In is adapted from John Ajvide Lindqvist’s original Swedish novel and film of the same name It is a tender, funny and brutal love story about the friendship between a lonely teenager called Oskar and a centuries-old but eternally young vampire named Eli who moves in next door.

The pair forge a deep connection until a series of mysterious killings

GAZETTE

DIARY tests their relationship.

Tickets for teens are €13 with prices ranging from €13-€45 during the run available from abbeytheatre.ie.

TOP MACRA PRIZE FOR HILL 16 CLUB D U B L I N ’ S H i l l 16 Macra club picked up a top prize at the AllIreland final of Macra’s P ublic Speaking and Impromptu Public Speaking competitions last weekend.

The competition was sponsored by Triace Hardware Specialists.

Macra na Feirme National President James Healy said: “Well done to all our speakers, these competitions are a great way for our members to grow accustomed to speaking in a public forum and I would like to thank Triace for their continued support.”

Young Ballymun, which helps parents improve their child’s literacy, was previously shortlised for a STAR Award

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017

Out and About

Carmel Breheny and Maia Dunphy

Pictured are Elaine Diffley, Jill Wright and Audrey Taylor. Pictures: Shane O’Neill, SON Photographic

Kicking the Christmas season off in style O

Kayleigh Cullinan and Orla Molloy and Aoife Donohoe

Paul Williams

Anna Daly

Mary Power and Tracey Moran

VER 320 guests kicked the Christmas season off in style at the Newstalk Christmas Lunch in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation in the Shelbourne Hotel last week. The lunch raised over €30,000 for the Foundation’s cancer programmes and services which are offered free of charge to men and women all over Ireland. Newstalk presenter Shane Coleman was MC for the event.

Yvonne Joy, Carmel O’Shea, Lisa Kwik

Gary Keating, Valerie Keating and Conor McAllister

GAZETTE

DUBLINLIFE

14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

FEATURE

Local hero Suzanne sowing seeds of success in garden  MARK O’BRIEN VOLUNTEERING can be one of the most rewarding things a person can do.

Whether it’s giving up your time for a charity, a sports club or a local event, volunteers are the unsung heroes that make our communities the vibrant places they are.

O n e D u b l i n wo m a n w a s recently recognised for the outstanding work she does in her local community.

Suzanne O’Neill was named as the winner in the Animals and Environment category at the Volunteer Ireland Awards.

The awards aim to shine a light on the remarkable work of volunteers around the country by celebrating them on a national level.

Suzanne has been volunteering in the Community Garden in Sean Walsh Park in Tallaght for over seven years, using her expertise to give advice and guidance on maintaining the garden,

which is a social outlet and safe space for those in unemployment or who are retired.

Speaking to Dublin Gazette this week, Suzanne paid tribute to those people and modestly credited them for her achievement.

“I was absolutely over the moon but the award was for everybody here in the garden,” she said.

“I’m just standing back in the shed at the moment, looking over at the polytunnel and they’re in there and we’re having a party and my heart is full of pride looking at all of them because they’re such a wonderful group of people.”

Through Suzanne’s teachings the participants have seen how things can grow and they are able to harvest the fruits of their labours.

Ever y month she delivers wo r k s h o p s i n t h e c o m m u nity garden on different topics including floristry, making hanging baskets, vegetable window boxes, composting, garden

design, plants for the different seasons, and maintenance.

She said that it’s heartening to see the effect that growing plants has on the group.

“What they grow, they’re nurturing a plant and they’re nurturing something and then in return it’s nurturing them.”

The group have utilised the polytunnel in the garden to grow melons, tomatoes, and pumpkins and Suzanne has even provided recipes to include the produce that the participants have grown.

Suzanne said that she has gained as much as the participants from volunteering at the garden.

“I used come out of the job that I was paid in and I used to cry with stress,” she said.

“But ever y Wednesday I’d come out into the garden volunteering and my heart would sing so volunteering really has given me a lot as well.”

The Community Garden in Sean Walsh Park is open from 11am to 1pm every Wednesday and all are welcome to attend.

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

Suzanne O’Neill, top right, recently scooped the top award in the Animals and Environment category at the Volunteer Ireland Awards for the selfless work she does in maintaining the Community Garden at the Sean Walsh Park, above left and right, in Tallaght

I used come out of the job that I was paid in and I used to cry with stress. But every Wednesday I’d come out into the garden volunteering and my heart would sing so volunteering really has given me a lot as well -----------------------------------

14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

DUBLINLIFE

MUSIC

N O S ’ T A H W

 JAMES HENDICOTT PUNK two-piece Vulpynes are only three singles old, but already look a good bet for Dublin music’s next big thing. So what has the lairy pair making waves in London and Berlin?

DUBLINERS VULPYNES had an inauspicious start. Formed after drummer/ vocalist Kaz Millar placed an advert on Boards.ie looking to form a band (future partner in crime Maeve Molly McKernan was the first to reply), the post eventually resulted in a four-piece. They played only covers, and lasted mere days.

Millar and McKernan had felt something click, though, and after a brief search for a bassist, decided to start making original material, and to go it alone. Their sound takes much of its inspiration from the 90s.

It’s raw, nodding distinctly to acts like Hole, Alice in Chains, L7 and Soundgarden.

Riddled with reverb, abrasive and fearless, it comes from a band dynamic that was very much full speed ahead from the off.

“We started off really determined,” McKernan recalls.

“We were just eager to play, and took any gig we were offered. It’s a mentality we’ve kind of continued with. We want to play live, and the more people see us, the more people know us.

“It’s a word of mouth thing. With the UK shows, we reached out to promoters the first time around, and since then we’ve been invited back to do shows. We’re going to Berlin this month, too, and back to the UK in 2018.”

While relatively underground at least for the uninitiated (it’s based largely around a small handful of labels and venues, though there are surprisingly numerous bands), Dublin has long had a powerful and closeknit punk scene, based around lairy nights out, an enticing community spirit and supportive culture.

“It’s a really friendly community of bands,” McKernan explains.

“They really want to help each other out, and they love music. It’s that community where we feel at home, and we’ve found it so welcoming. Everyone’s so genuine, with a real community spirit with no back stabbing, and we love it.”

While they connected specifically on order to form the band, the stories of Millar and McKernan’s journeys with punk are surprisingly similar.

McKernan’s mum introduced her to bands like L7 and Hole at a young age, and now shows her support for Vulpynes by drawing, producing stunning illustrations of the pair as skeletons, or foxes. Millar’s older sister channeled Nirvana and Alice in Chains into her life.

Much of the band’s creative spark now happens in a practise room in Whitehall.

Shared with several other bands, the space is “too hot in summer and too cold in winter,” but enough to allow the pair to work.

GAZETTE

GAZETTE

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017

E D I U G S T N EVE

with JAMES HENDICOTT

BIMM End of Term Gig

See some of the rock stars of the future as Dublin’s finest music college puts on its end of term show on December 14 at the Button Factory, Temple Bar. They’re keeping the line up under wraps, but it’s a bargain at €5 in (or free for alumni).

Christmas Sing Along at Teelings

Do you love your Christmas carols and cheesy winter pop? Why not join those of a similar humbug-busting bent at THE DETROIT RAPPER RE TURNS Teelings to scream that at ALBUM OF THE WEEK WITH OUR the top of your lungs, and try and win a few prizes? December 17.

Dublin Comic Arts Festival

A change from the usual seasonal fare with a market for independent comics coming to the loveable Token in Smithfield, on December 17. There’s also workshops and talks.

You might not have heard of them, but they’re great.

Leinster v Exeter Chiefs

Dublin’s heroes take on the reigning English Champions at the Aviva, the second of a double header over the Christmas season that’s sure to be fiery, and go a long way to deciding Leinster’s top-class Champions Cup group.

December 17.

Citywise Winter Wonderland

Santa, Elves, gingerbread men, carol singing, photos and pictures in the sleigh as the Winter Wonderland returns to Citywise Education in Jobstown on December 16 & 17 and 17th. Time for some last gasp Santa fun?.

Swords Castle Christmas Food Fare The songs come together quickly.

“We normally write lyrics first. I’m constantly scribbling verses,” McKernan tells us.

“Then riffs, and Kaz adds her magic, cutting through it. That we’re done in a couple of hours is a nice uncomplicated reality for a two piece. I like my guitar to sound distorted, but not too hazy, not too muddy.”

So far, the singles have been a stark statement. ‘OCD’ is a brash if oddly positive ode to the condition, with abrasive riffs and throat-battering lyrics.

‘Terry Said’ is a little less direct, written about a stranger in a Dublin bar, with almost sneeringly dank choruses. The newest release, ‘Silica’ is the best yet, unapologetically in your face and bitter, with deeptoned chords that almost twist McKernan’s guitar into a bass-like snarl.

“The two piece thing does seem to be kind of fashionable,” the pair admit, “but we

never planned it, it’s just how things worked out. I love the White Stripes, because they’re not afraid to just write good songs, they never try to fill up something that isn’t there.

“They’re just good songs. We’d relate more to them then someone like Royal Blood, who just sound a bit overproduced to us. We’re really as raw sounding as possible. That’s what we want to do, and it’ll be the same when we come to doing an album.”

The future is bright for the pair, and in the short term will see the boisterous two-piece playing extensively over Christmas and New Year, including a Hot Press showcase in January.

“We have a few plans for the New Year, but we don’t really plan too far ahead,” McKernan tells us.

“We’re always very busy, but we like it that way. We noticed the other day that it’s been almost six months since we put out a single,

back in July, and it’s just flown by. We’re going to try and get something physically released next year. The next step is an EP, probably in the first quarter or so of the year, and probably a video, too.”

In passing, McKernan mentions two key chords on which she bases much of her guitar part. It’s an aesthetic, of course, but also distinctly punk rock, about being raw, direct and sticking to a tone as much as delivering a melody.

The passion for their project is clear to see in everything the duo say. As a well known twist on the old saying goes, ‘love is like punk: not dead’. Whatever the pair do, it’s sure to be done with passion. The result is one noisy, relentless party.

Catch Vulypnes at the Dando Christmas Sessions, Fibber Magees, December 30, or at the Hot Press Tramlines show on January 15.

A visit to the beautiful Swords Castle is always a worthwhile adventure, but with this host of seasonal stalls dropping in for the weekend, there’s now a nice munch on offer, too. Why wouldn’t you? December 16 and 17.

Guided Walks at the National Botanic Gardens

Explore Christmas-loving plants at one of the city’s most beautiful gardens, as the staff put on a walk to explore the seasons for €5 per person. Ask at the visitor centre for information.

The Strypes

The young rockers who’ve found levels of acclaim that have seen them play Slane and complete a Japanese tour as barely post-teens. The Strypes won’t be playing venues as small as Whelan’s for much longer. December 21.

New album of the week

Eminem - Revival The Detroit rapper might have been taking it slow for a while now, but his pre-Christmas return in ‘Revival’ - his first album since 2013 - is sure to make a splash, especially as Ed Sheeran, Beyonce and Pink appear as guests.

GAZETTE

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017

DUBLINLIFE

How to feast on Christmas turkey and trimmings and still keep trim DID you know.... On Christmas Day people can eat and drink their way through up to 6,000 calories - that’s up to three times what we need in an average day.

When it comes to Christmas, most of us expect to gain at least a few extra pounds and hope to shed them in the New Year, but for those seriously trying to lose weight or maintain weight loss, Christmas can be a trying time.

So, the people at the Irish Nutrition and Dietetics Institute, have put together some tips to help you through the festive season.

Don’t starve yourself Over Christmas it’s better to aim to keep weight steady than to try to actively lose it.

There is nothing like avoiding every bit of party food to bring on the urge to give up the whole diet and splurge.

Have a little of what you fancy. Pick one or two parties over Christmas where you can indulge - but keep it to just one or two - and remem-

ber Christmas Day counts as one!

Choose wisely Between work and family many of us have more than one party to go to and, at this time of year, the food tends towards the high fat and stodgy or the sugary and sweet. Start by having some of the lower calorie options salads, fruit and bread before you head for the sausage rolls and mince pies.

Be careful what you buy Christmas is a great excuse to fill up the shopping trolley with tins of biscuits and boxes of sweets but who is going to end up eating them?

If you are only having guests over for one day at Christmas, buy just what you need for that day.

You don’t need to stock-

pile goodies ‘just in case’.

You could also buy healthier nibbles such as satsumas and other seasonal fruits such as mango, unsalted nuts or chestnuts as they are the only low fat nut, reduced fat crisps, popcorn or pretzels, dried fruit such as dates, figs or apricots, bread sticks with tomato salsa or low-fat yoghurt dips.

Plan Ahead As most of us are very busy during December, we may be tempted to opt for take-aways and junk food. Having some standbys in the house can help.

Beans on toast is a quick, nutritious meal or tr y stocking the freezer with cartons of fresh soups.

If you are cooking dishes such as stews or casseroles, make some extra and freeze it and y o u d o n ’t h ave t o worry about cooking

Doing some extra walking or sessions at the gym will help to balance out the extra food you’re eating

FOOD&DRINK

People can eat and drink their way through up to 6,000 calories on Christmas Day

when you come in from a busy day.

On Christmas Day For starters, try melon, other fresh fruits or smoked salmon. Homemade soup can be a warming low-calorie starter, try adding some seasonal butternut squash.

Top with low fat creme fraiche and some fresh parsley rather than cream.

Turkey meat is good, however avoid the skin as this is high in fat.

W h e n roasting potatoes leave them

whole rather than cutting them small as the smaller they are the more fat they will absorb. Roast separately from the turkey to cut out the animal fat.

Fill up on plenty of vegetables but avoid adding butter or rich sauces. Steam your vegetables rather than boil to hold on to those valuable vitamins and minerals.

Gravy is a must for turkey but allow the juices to settle so you can skim off all fat before making.

Use low fat custard or creme fraiche instead of cream or brandy butter with pudding.

Try a fruit compote by stewing your favourite berries with plums and apples with a pinch of cinnamon.

When you feel full, stop eating!

Christmas Cheer We do more drinking at Christmas that at any other t i m e of the year a n d alcohol is a big problem if trying to keep your weight stable.

Not only does it contain calories itself (one pint of beer has around 200 calories) it also leads to low blood sugar, which makes you feel hungrier.

Try to have a glass of water for every second drink. This

will not only reduce the calories, but will also help the hangover. Mixing wine with mineral water is another way to cut back on calories. If you have a lot of parties to go to, try not to drink at all of them and bringing the car with you has the added benefit of not having to queue for taxis!

Entertaining at home Appetisers don’t always have to be crisps and sausage rolls. Raw vegetables like carrots, celery and cauliflower chopped and served with dips such as salsa are tasty and low in calories, as are olives with thin slices of French bread.

Have fruit-based desserts such as apple crumble and frozen yoghurt available as well as ice cream to go with it.

If you are having traditional desserts like Christmas pudding, go for custard made with low-fat milk rather than cream.

You are unlikely to be the only person watching your weight - your friends may thank you for thinking of lower calorie options.

Get some exercise Most of us have a few days off over Christmas, which makes it a great time to get some exercise. Doing some extra walking or sessions at the gym will help to balance out the extra food you’re eating. Walking in the fresh air is also one of the best hangover cures - so now you have two reasons to get going.

GAZETTE

14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

DUBLINFITNESS

CHECK OUT www.kickstartfitness.ie

NUTRITION: FORGET POPULAR FADS – A SENSIBLE DIET APPROACH BEARS LONG-TERM FRUITS

Some dietary hits and myths to be aware of in your foods Sinead McSorley is a qualified nutritionist with more than five years’ experience in the field. Sinead has a particular passion for the area of sports nutrition, and is currently undertaking a  SINEAD MCSORLEY Masters in sports nutrition. info@dublingazette.com DID you know that by staying away from five particular foods you can lose the weight you want to within a week and never be hungry?

And did you also know that drinking one glass of wine a day can give you the same health benefits as one hour of hard exercise?

Oh, and before I forget, if you drink nothing but antioxidant-enriched juices for three to five days straight, you will never get sick!

Does all that sound too good to be true? Well, that’s because it is!

Unfor tunately, the diet, health and exercise community is rife with unsubstantiated claims and myths on how to lose weight, drop body fat and get that ‘summer body’.

While most of the claims hyped in popular magazines and newspapers are just flat-out wrong or vastly overhyped, some do have a lot of truth to

them – so how do we know the difference?

We look to science for the answers, that’s how!

Most people don’t have hours (or years, in my case) to review all the literature, so I have broken it down into six key principles, as follows.

These principles are based not only on research, but also backed on the scientific opinion of industry leaders whom I greatly respect.

1. Calorie balance The reality is calorie intake and body weight have a direct relationship with each other.

Body weight is massively important to your health; being too high or too low will impact your everyday life.

In terms of healthy eating for fat-loss, most people will get everything else right, they will buy the ‘health’ foods but they fail to get the calorie balance correct.

This is where you need to start.

2. Food composition While the number of calories you eat will be the biggest contributing factor to your body composition goal, there is a concept of ‘healthy’ foods, and it will benefit you in terms of long-term health to fill your calories with nutrient-dense foods.

3. Macronutrient amounts When constructing your food intake plan, ensure that you are consuming at least the minimum amounts of macro-nutrients, protein, fats and carbohydrates.

Don’t allow certain ‘Interest groups’ to influence and demonise nutrients – we all need protein, fats and carbs, and none of these are bad for you.

4. Nutrient timing For the majority of us, three to five meals per day are what works best. We all lead busy lifestyles, and my advice is don’t stress over this, find what works for you and go with it.

If you like three big meals a day, do that – but if smaller and more frequent meals work, then do that.

To promote energy and alleviate craving, try to space your meals out with an even spread of nutrients.

5. Hydration To be hydrated is to have enough body water to support life. How can you tell if you’re hydrated?

Well, it’s easy – your urine should be clear, or a light yellow colour, and you should urinate in high volumes at regular times.

We’ve all heard of the Food Pyramid – but it’s also very useful to know of the Diet Circles, with a number of overlapping areas that provide a great way to focus on a sensible, healthy way to eat the foods that are best for you

6. Supplements Sort out principles 1-5, and in that order, and then look to your supplements.

There are, however, some essentials, and I will cover them in another article.

The take-home message It is impor tant to remember that health is both deteriorated by and improved by diet (very slowly).

I believe that food should be enjoyed, not restricted, which is why our fat-loss plan produces great results that are maintained long-term.

A good place to start on your healthy fat-loss journey is a good fat-loss plan – it’s much more than just a diet plan, it’s science.

While some people may be focused on getting a ‘beach body’, it’s much more important to focus on developing and then maintaining a healthy, balanced diet that suits your own body’s unique nutritional needs

GAZETTE

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017

DUBLINMOTORING

FASTNews

Some of the team from Renault Ireland who rolled up their sleeves to help Crosscare deliver more than 600 packages in one day

Renault gears up for charity drive with Crosscare RENAULT Ireland has teamed up with social

support charity Crosscare to provide food and other important supplies to those in need this Christmas. A fleet of five Renault vans recently travelled around Dublin and Wicklow to collect donations of non-perishable items such as tinned food, soft drinks, cereals and toiletries.

Twenty Renault Ireland staff then spent a full day packaging up the donations, which will be delivered by Crosscare to people in local communities in the run up to the festive season.

The Crosscare team usually delivers 100 packages a week, but with the help of the Renault team, they delivered 600 packages in one day.

Crosscare is a social support agency which provides a range of social care, community and youth work services across the whole of the Dublin Archdiocese. They provide 500,000 meals to those in need and continue to play a significant role in the provision of services to people affected by poverty in the Dublin area.

Currently they employ over 500 staff with over 1,500 of volunteers in locations throughout the greater Dublin area and Wicklow.

Suzuki’s Swift can put a smile on your face in association with

Suzuki upgraded the Swift compact car during 2017 with improved performance and edging in some additional interior space to a smiling looking car design. The new car is lighter and more economical than in the past, while pitched higher in price than some of the mainstream competition, as MICHAEL MORONEY found out.

THERE’S something about the design and stance of the new Suzuki Swift that makes you want to smile. This is a car that feels it’s friendly towards you the moment you set eyes upon it; there’s a sort of Toy Story look to the Swift that’s part of its immediate appeal.

Under that smiling design Suzuki have make some significant changes to make this new Swift a more appealing car. The new Swift is lighter and shorter than before and between engine design changes and the use of a new vehicle structure, Suzuki have shaved 100kg from the weight of this small car.

So while the overall dimensions of the car are more compact, Suzuki has stretched the wheelbase, that is the distance

Suzuki Swift 1.0 Boosterjet Engine 1.0 litre Engine power 111hp 0 – 100km/hr 10 seconds Economy 20m/litre

(5.0/100km or 56.5mpg) Fuel Tank Capacity 37 litres CO2 emissions 114g/km Road Tax Band A4 €200 Main Service 20,000km/12 months Euro NCAP Rating 4 Star (Safety Pack) Warranty 3 years/100,000km Entry Price €16,995 front to rear between the wheels, to give more internal space for the driver and passengers. There is a slightly wider feel to the new Swift so this compact city type car never feels cramped, unless you pack in four very large adults.

Part of the new Suzuki Swift transformation

comes with some engine changes. The car gets a new 1.0 litre three-cylinder Boosterjet engine that’s lively to drive. This engine is rated at 111bhp, which is more powerful than some of the equivalent cars on the market and its acceleration pace impresses at 10 seconds in a 0 to 100km/

hr race. The Suzuki Boosterjet engine uses a combination of turbo-charging and direct inject to achieve this impressive performance. And that includes good torque which, in the automatic version that I drove, reaches its best at a low 1700rpm on the engine. This allows for smooth speed changes in the automatic version.

I liked the six-speed gearbox, while it took a little getting used to. There is a D and M setting on the automatic gearbox lever, and it’s all too easy to engage M when really you want the convenience of D for drive, without having to move the lever again.

The Swift is an economical little car, whether its city driving or longer distances, both of which it’s well able for. My test drive was just about 25% off the

rated economy figure of 20m/litre (5.0/100km or 56.5mpg) and that meant that I achieved a range of well over 500km on the full 37 litre capacity fuel tank. This tank capacity is lower than most of the competition, so expect to visit the petrol station that little bit more often.

There is a SHVS mild hybrid version of the Swift available that gives even better fuel economy and a lower CO2 emission figure of 97g/km. The system also uses a compact high performance 12V lithiumion battery placed under the front passenger seat to

Jeep gets 2018 ready with competitive Compass AHEAD of its arrival in January, Jeep Ireland has revealed pricing and specification details for its latest SUV, the new Compass.

And with a starting price of just €27,995 for the 120bhp 1.6-litre MultiJet diesel engine version, the new Compass is competitive.

In Ireland, the Compass engine range includes three diesel engines and a petrol 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo engine, delivering 140bhp at 5,000 rpm in combination with the six-speed manual gearbox and 4x2 configuration.

The diesel range comprises the efficient 1.6-litre MultiJet engine delivering 120bhp

at 3,750 rpm, as well as a 2.0-litre MultiJet engine delivering 140bhp at 3,750 rpm.

Both of these engines are mated to the sixspeed manual transmission, with the latter coming in a 4x4 drive.

A higher output version of the 2.0-litre MultiJet engine delivering 170bhp in combination with the nine-speed automatic transmission and 4x4 completes the engine offerings available on the new Compass.

Three equipment levels of Jeep Compass are offered in Ireland: Sport, Longitude and Limited. The entry level Sport version’s standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy

wheels, LED tail lights, leather steering wheel with audio controls, air conditioning, cruise control, forward collision warning plus, lane departure warning plus and a 60/40 split folding rear seat.

The new Compass is the first Jeep SUV to offer the new Uconnect system. This system has been improved to include enhanced processing power, faster start-up times and touch screens that display high-resolution graphics. The new Jeep Compass has attained a five-star Euro NCAP score and offers more than 70 available active and passive safety and security features.

The new Jeep Compass has a distinctive, contemporary design with a wide stance. Entry prices start at €27,995

14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25

in association with

The new Ford Transit Custom blends style with productivity FORD’S new Transit Custom one-tonne van has a fresh new design and claims enhanced productivity for businesses users. Powered by the Ford EcoBlue 2.0-litre diesel engine, Ford claims that the Transit Custom has been re-engineered to offer significant new features and capabili-

The new Transit Custom van

ties including a new ECOnetic

front-end design with three-bar Tran-

van variant delivering improved fuel

sit grille. The cabin area is completely

efficiency and 148 g/km CO2 emissions.

new and claims to offer the best-in-

Ford claims that this new engine

ergonomics, and easy connectivity with

and performance benefits compared to

SYNC 3 or MyFord Dock options.

the previous 2.2-litre diesel, with fuelThis new third generation Suzuki Swift is a lighter and more agile car for city driving with compact outer dimensions, while retaining good internal cabin space. Entry prices start at €20,995.

The dash layout for the Suzuki Swift is clear with analogue dials and a large centremounted infotainment screen and (right) the three-cylinder Boosterjet petrol engine

store energy and adding only 6.2kg to the overall weight of the car.

The Swift’s compact outer dimensions can belie impressive interior space.

Suzuki claims to have improved headroom in the rear and that was welcome for me as I brought home the Christmas tree after folding down the Swift’s rear seats. I was impressed that the car extended its load area so well, but it’s still shorter and less spacious than some of the

competition such as the new Ford Fiesta, Nissan Micra or Volkswagen Polo.

The boot area was compromised not just in its smaller capacity but also by the fact that not only did it have no spare wheel, there wasn’t even a jack present. I was unfortunate to clip a sharp kerb nicking the Swift’s front tyre and without the necessary and basic tools I have no option but to call for tyre fitting help.

Luckily, I was near Roscommon town at the time and could locate a mobile tyre fitting service. There was an additional problem in that the Bridgestone 165/55 R16 tyre is a little uncommon, so the search for a replacement took some time. You simply never realise how important tyre size and availability are until stuck in my predicament.

The Swift comes with claims of improved safety features and the higher

specification ‘Safety Pack’ version was the one that achieved the four-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

The car is well equipped in a safety sense with six airbags, ABS brakes with EBD & brake assist, side impact protection beams, lane departure warning, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, tyre pressure monitor, hill hold control and high beam assist lighting.

Entry prices for the new Suzuki Swift start at €16,995 which is reasonably competitive for a car that is more economical and better to drive than ever before. All versions come with air conditioning, DAB Radio, privacy glass, LED daytime running lights and Bluetooth fitted as standard on all new Swift models. If you opt for the six-speed automatic version then you add €4,000 to the price.

class stowage, improved comfort and

delivers significant cost of ownership

The new Transit Custom is the first

efficiency improved by up to 13% and

commercial vehicle to offer Intelligent

low-end torque enhanced by 20%. The

Speed Assist, a feature that could help

updated model offers a new ECOnetic

prevent drivers from exceeding speed

variant that delivers 148 g/km CO2

limits, and potentially from incurring

emissions and 5.7 l/100 km (49.6 mpg)

costly speeding penalties.

fuel efficiency, a further 6% improve-

It is available in two roof heights,

ment over the most efficient current

two wheelbase options, a gross vehicle

vehicle.

mass range from 2.6 tonnes to 3.4

The new Transit Custom has a new

tonnes offering payloads up to 1,450 kg.

Mini may go all-electric in US BMW may make its Mini brand all-electric in the US, according to new reports as the Germany car company looks for partners to lower the cost of electrifying the brand. BMW plans to launch an electric Mini in 2019 and the company has hinted that in the US market at least, Mini could become an entirely electric brand, aimed at urban consumers, according to a senior company executive and board member.

Building smaller electric cars is challenging both in terms of financial costs, and because of the engineering problem of fitting batteries with sufficient range into a smaller car package. BMW builds Mini vehicles at its main factory in Oxford, England.

GAZETTE

26 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017

DUBLINLIFE Chantilly Lace Blouse Red €395

Exciting exhibition Hi! Fashion opens  EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

AN exciting exhibition “Hi! Fashion” which explores and celebrates fashion design from Ireland and Japan hosted by the OPW, commissioned by the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCoI) and curated by Gemma A. Williams opened in Farmleigh Gallery on 1st December. Showcasing garments from ground-breaking fashion designers spanning six decades, the exhibition celebrates the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan.

Hosted by the OPW in partnership with the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland, Hi! Fashion will feature works including a gown from the first collection by celebrated Irish designer Sybil Connolly who launched her couture line in 1957. It also presents the work of other internationally renowned Irish designers including John Rocha, recognised as one of this country’s best designers, Lainey Keogh who transformed the face of Irish knitwear and Úna Burke whose designs have been worn

by Lady Gaga, Rihanna and Daphne Guinness amongst others.

The exhibition will also include the work of Japanese visionary Issey Miyake, master tailor Yohji Yamamoto and Comme des Garçons who is responsible for dramatically changing what we think of as fashion. Garments have been sourced globally from museum collections, designer archives and collectors as well as newly created pieces.

Curated by Williams and designed in collaboration with award-winning Irish design studio ROJI, Hi! Fashion is open at Farmleigh Gallery and will run until 29th April 2018.

SHE’S SO

Lovely  EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

IRISH designer Catriona Hanly’s autumn winter collection is an opulent feast for the eyes.

The beautiful campaign was shot at Kilronan Castle in Roscommon and features a range of statement blouses.

The blouses, which are composed of Chantilly lace and silk organza, demonstrate the designer’s unique eye for rich fabrics, delicate textures and classic colour.

An utterly feminine collection overall is juxtaposed by the introduction of some tuxedo style tailoring – in keeping with the demands of the year.

Loved by celebrities from both Ireland and further afield, Catriona Hanly is stocked in the Design Centre, Havana Boutique and Emporium Kalu. Visit catrionahanly.com.

14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

GAZETTE

STYLE

Benefit PoreFessional pearl primer €34

NYX Professional Make Up Slide On Lip Pencil €8

Inglot eyelashes €10

Inglot eyeliner gel €15

Coco Blouse €395

Catrice The Ultimate Chrome Collection Eyeshadow Palette 010, €5.50

Catrice IcoNails Gel Lacquer 05 IT’S ALL ABOUT THAT RED, €2.95

Delarom Rich Lip Balm 15ml, €18

Catrice Strobe to Glow Highlighter Stick 010, €4.95 Karina jacket €495 and trousers €295

NYX Professional Makeup Wonder Stick – Highlight & Contour €14

ON the twelfth day of Christmas myself gave to me…

Keep your make up bag topped up and bursting with silly season must haves for the many nights out of December. Our top picks include a number of affordable products, from highlighters to lipliners, to keep you looking glam for your Christmas party...

Benefit Bigger and Bolder brow set €38.50

Chantilly cream blouse €395

Ivy blouse €295

Catrice Liquid Lip Powder 030, €4.50

He-Shi Bronze Me Beautiful Gift Set €25

GAZETTE

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE 14 December 2017

DUBLINLIFE ReelReviews

DISASTER ARTIST It’s anything but...

TOMMY Wiseau’s 2003 film, The Room, has gone down in history as one of the (unintentionally) worst films ever made – and The Disaster Artist (Cert 15A, 105 mins) delivers a hilariously entertaining look at how the titanic turkey came about. James Franco excels in this labour of love, as he portrays the eccentric, one-of-a-kind actor-director while he created his infamous contribution to cinema.

An extended family’s refined, wealthy surface masks some unpleasant realities in director Michael Haneke’s latest

BATTLE OF THE SEXES

HAPPY END: CALAIS-SET FAMILY DRAMA IS A BITING BUT BRILLIANT SATIRE

A oui bit cold and cruel

THERE’S no love lost in this bitterly dark satire from acclaimed director Michael Haneke.

Happy End (Cert 15A, 107 mins) is set against the Calais refugee crisis, although unfolding as it does around the drama of an upper-middle class family, you’d be forgiven for overlooking the factual backdrop.

Targeting the apathy and deep-seated indifference of higher society, Haneke revisits the thematic threads that have linked all his work – actually, Happy End is a sequel of sorts to the Oscar-winning Amour (2012), which was also nabbed the Palme D’Or at Cannes, Haneke’s second time securing the prestigious award.

However, as much as it

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

works through the Austrian director’s preferred subjects – racial tension, social apathy, familial strife, suicide and euthanasia (hefty subjects, to say the least) – Happy End is also, shockingly enough, a wickedly funny film.

Those familiar with Haneke’s work may indeed be astounded; his is an oeuvre that rarely takes time to offer any humour.

Here, one can’t help but laugh at the trivial dramas of contemporary Europe-

an affluence in the midst of an era-defining crisis.

Jean-Louis Trintingent and Isabelle Huppert return to the father-daughter roles they portrayed in Amour: retired construction magnate Georges Laurent and his daughter Anne, who now runs the company.

While George struggles with depression and suggested dementia, Anne battles with her wayward son, Pierre (Franz Rogowoski), who is also battling his own demons.

Amidst this drama, Anne’s brother, Thomas (Mathieu Kassovitz), who also lives with them in their huge Calais mansion, takes over the care of his somewhat estranged preteen daughter, Eve (Fantine Harduin).

Eve, we learn in the film’s prologue (covertly filmed with a smart phone camera), has secretly poisoned her mother with sedatives, who is now in a coma.

With all the twisted soap opera dramatics, we rarely give thought to the humanitarian crisis going on down the road.

However, as the narrative unfolds, Haneke lets the real-world drama slowly seep through the cracks in the Laurent family’s mundane existence – a gradual, damning condemnation of what we as a society often choose to ignore in favour of more trivial endeavours.

Stylistically, Happy End is textbook Haneke – the director’s favoured long takes, wide angles and

sudden, violent cuts are all here with his trademark, unwavering camera eye.

As always, we invade the day-to-day of family life as a voyeur, observing the drama from doorways, around corners and from the opposite ends of hallways.

Here, however, Haneke also chooses to frame his narrative with an abundance of technological devices – CCTV footage, smartphone cameras and computer screens.

Consequently, any possibility of intimacy is denied to the viewer; Happy End is perhaps Haneke’s coldest, most detached project yet, even if it offers a whole lot more humour and a great deal less violence (don’t worry, there’s a bit of that

here too).

The cast of Haneke stalwarts and newcomers pull plenty of humanity and depth into the family’s shallow existence – Huppert and Trintingent are terrific, as usual; newcomer Fantine Harduin shines as a young, burgeoning sociopath.

Expertly crafted, brilliantly acted, disturbing, cynical, hilarious and often shocking, Happy End stops just short of being another masterpiece for Haneke.

Those familiar with the director’s work will often feel like they’re retreading familiar territory – still, when the journey’s as visually pleasing and brutally gratifying as this, who cares?

Verdict: 9/10

Game for a good movie

A REAL-life sports feud carries a serious message behind its breezy facade, with The Battle of the Sexes (Cert 12A, 121 mins) serving up an entertaining but also thoughtful film. Emma Stone and Steve Carell are great as tennis champs Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, whose 1973 grudge match put gender equality in the centre court, as each took their best shots at defending their differences.

SUBURBICON

Nasty neighbours galore THE FILM poster has lots of multi-star praise – but many film critics have slated this misfiring dud from director George Clooney. Suburbicon (Cert 15A, 104 mins) takes a look at the darkness behind idyllic suburbia in late 1950s America, but the lurking violence and latent racism the film portrays aren’t exactly shocking, with the current climate in America hurting the film’s narratives.

14 December 2017 DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

TRAVEL

Take the stress out of the January sales Heritage in Killenard  SYLVIA POWNALL Travel Editor

SOME of us haven’t even started our Christmas shopping but the more organised spenders out there might already be looking ahead to the January sales.

It can be tough trekking around boutiques all day long laden down with bargains – but a retail-themed hotel stay can take the stress out of the most manic retail hunt.

The Heritage in Killenard is offering a special shopping package with a day out at Kildare Village followed by a spa experience at the fivestar facility.

You can enjoy a onenight break with a 10% discount card and €30 gif t card for K ildare Village, courtesy of the hotel.

Located in the charming countryside of Co Laois, The Heritage is known for its exceptional facilities, impeccable service and world-class dining.

Rates for the Luxury Shopping Package start from €109.50 per person sharing and includes

overnight deluxe accommodation with breakfast and access to The Heritage Spa Experience and a €30 voucher for Kildare Village (www. theheritage.com).

Alternatively why not shop your way into the New Year at Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Dublin?

Hit the sales with a chic and stylish break, enjoy a cocktail on arrival (choose from the signature apple strudel or snowflake), dine on seasonal menus and recharge the batteries.

Take a break between December 27 and 29 with one night including Super Breakfast and dinner in V’nV Restaurant from €150 per person based on two people sharing (w w w.radissonblu.com/royalhoteldublin).

If you fancy getting out of town how about a five-star fashion fix at The Savoy in Limerick?

In the heart of vibrant downtown Limerick and only a short stroll from the city’s retail quarter, The Savoy is perfectly placed for guests to shop until they drop.

Brown Thomas is only

Enjoy a cocktail at Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin

The Savoy in Limerick is perfectly placed for guests to shop until they drop

a short walk away and you can avail of a €30 gift card for the luxury lifestyle store courtesy of the hotel.

You can take a break from browsing with afternoon tea with Prosecco ser ved in the plush library, or a dip in

the pool and a spot of relaxation in the thermal suite.

The boutique break is priced from €145 per person sharing and includes an overnight stay in an Executive Guest Room, a €30 Brown Thomas voucher,

Prosecco afternoon tea for two people in The Library, a late breakfast the following morning (served until 12 noon) and a late checkout (2pm) plus complimentary valet parking.

Visit www.savoylimerick.com for details.

Spoil yourself with a spa experience at the five-star Heritage in Killenard

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 14 December 2017

DUBLINGAZETTECLASSIFIEDS  SOUTH ALTERATIONS

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

INSULATION

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

INSURANCE CLAIMS

GOT A STORY? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240

PAINTING

Serving 7 thriving communities of suburban Dublin. For up to date news follow us on Twitter @DublinGazette

14 December 2017 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 31

ROOFING

ABC CERTIFIED 52,958 COPIES EACH WEEK

(ABC: Group MFD, Jan–Dec 2015)

WINDOWS

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 01 60 10 240

FOLLOW US TODAY ON OUR SOCIAL NETWORK

RECRUITMENT

Visit: Facebook: www.facebook.com/DublinGazetteNewspapers Twitter: @DublinGazette

32 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 14 December 2017

DUBLINGAZETTEPLANNING  SOUTH

GazettePlanning To place a planning ad call us on 60 10 240

.... approved for your local area .... advertise locally .... Local Matters

GAZETTE

36 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 14 December 2017

SPORT

FASTGAA

ATHLETICS: DSD RUNNER PRODUCES IRELAND’S STAND-OUT SHOWING

Action from the 2016 Dub Stars. Picture: GAAPics

Six Fox/Cab Stars LOCAL stars dominate the senior ladies football Dub Stars for their New Ireland Assurance sponsored match against a senior county line-up.

County champions Foxrock Cabinteely provide Ciara Ni Mhurchadh, Sarah Quinn, Sinead Goldrick, Hannah O’Neill, Laura Nerney and Fiona Claffey while Cuala’s Jennifer Dunne, Martha Byrne and Hannah O’Dea and Kilmacud Crokes’s Martha O’Connor have also been named in the panel for the game which takes place in DCU on January 14.

Each player chosen on the Dub Stars and Junior Dub Stars panels will each receive a full Dub Stars kit along with a specially commissioned Dub Stars commemorative medal.

Sophie Murphy, far right, with the rest of the Ireland Under-20 team in Samorin last weekend.

Murphy in Europe’s top ten EURO CROSS COUNTRY  sport@dublingazette.com

SOPHIE Murphy (Dundrum South Dublin AC) ran a brilliant race in the Irish singlet in the junior women’s (Under-20) European cross country at the European Cross Country Championships in Samorin, Slovakia.

She was in the lead group from the start and fought courageously all the way to the finish line for a top ten finish. Her

10th placing was far in advance of her previous 54th and 38th positions in the last two years.

Murphy can now look forward to a Christmas break at home and the club look forward to seeing her back at training in Marlay Park.

She led home an Irish team that finished seventh overall out of 20 teams. She was followed home by Stephanie Cotter in 27th, Jodie McCann (DSD) in 34th, Laura

Nicholson in 39th, Fiona Everard in 62nd and Fian Sweeney (DCH) in 72nd.

Bethanie Murray (DSD) was the sole Irish representative in the U23 women’s 6km race and she ran well to finish 38th.

Heroics Athletics Ireland High Performance Director Paul McNamara said it was a fine set of results with the Irish men’s team ending fifth overall.

“I’m really pleased with

the performances. There were some heroic performances out there starting with Sophie Murphy and then right through to the senior men who were magnificent.

“We have a strong tradition in cross country and for a country of our size and we performed at a very high level.”

Elsewhere, the indoor athletics season got under way in America and DSD athlete Siofra Cleirigh Buttner (Villanova) was

on the score sheet.

She ran her first race over 3,000m and finished a brilliant third at the Jack Pyrah Invitational, recording a personal best time of 9.37.48.

Meanwhile, at home, 17-year old Abbie Taylor ran an outstanding 9.36.02 (3,000m) at Abbotstown Indoor Arena. This is 20 seconds faster than she ran last year, to finish second in the senior race to Amy O’Donoghue.

CLUB NOTICEBOARD BALLINTEER ST JOHN’S

LOTTO results (December 7): numbers were 12, 13, 14 and 16. No winner.

Next week’s jackpot is €1,200. Lotto joker: €400; winner of €100: F. Duffin, €50: Liam Cullen and Gerry Murphy. Joker consolation prize: Fergal Duffy.

Bingo every Monday at 8pm.

Ballinteer Male Voice Choir are performing in the clubhouse on Thursday next at 9:30pm.

All are welcome, no cover charge.

BSJ children’s Christmas party will be held on Saturday,

December 16. Santa will be there also from 9.30am.

Parish Cup games on December 16 on the AWP. Proposed pairings: Team A - Marlay, Hermitage, Llewelyn; Team B - Broadford, Lissadel, Marlay Wood, Woodpark; Team C - Pine Valley, Kingston; and Team D - Wild Geese. Cup presentation and player of the year awards in all codes in the clubhouse on night of December 16.

Team mentors now in training for the annual St Stephen’s morning games on the AWP. Hurling Match at 11am; football at 11.30am.

Followed by traditional

refreshments in Aras Na nOg. More refreshment and music later in the clubhouse from 2-5pm.

Looking for sports gear for Christmas? Club shop open in Aras Naomh Eoin (clubhouse) on Thursday (7.30-8.30pm) and Saturday (11.30am to 12.30pm). Free car BSJ stickers with club crest now available in the club shop.

BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S

HARD Luck to our U-21A footballers who suffered defeat to Na Fianna and our U-21C footballers who were beaten by St

Margaret’s on Saturday.

Well done to all those who took part in the Santa run on Saturday.

It was a great success with loads of money made for Our Ladies Children Hospital, Crumlin.

Don’t forget to buy your Christmas trees in the club car park over the next two weeks.

Proceeds go directly to the club with a donation to charity.

CUALA

OUR adult ladies footballers made it a treble for 2017 when they added the Dublin Division 4 league and cup titles to their junior

A championship win last Monday with a comprehensive win over O’Dwyer’s.

The Cuala senior hurlers are delighted to announce a sponsorship partnership with Davy group, Ireland’s leading provider of wealth management and financial advisory services. The partnership will see Davy support the Cuala senior hurlers, the current All-Ireland, Leinster and Dublin champions in their continued pursuit of excellence.

Congrats to Martha Byrne, Hannah O’Dea, Jennifer Dunne and Jess Tobin, all named on the

14 December 2017 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 33

ATHLETICS P36

P27 LADIESASDFSDAF FOOTBALL P37

DUBLINSPORT

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

Leinster are looking to make it four wins from four in the European Champions Cup next Saturday. Picture: Martin Doherty

RUGBY: LEINSTER ON THE BRINK OF QUARTER-FINAL QUALIFICATION

Cullen ready to chop and change for the hectic Christmas battles  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

LEO Cullen’s Leinster can push to the brink of qualification for the European Champions Cup quarter-finals if they can back up their hugely impressive victory over the Exeter Chiefs last Sunday.

An 18-8 victory at Sandy Park cemented the province’s status as one of the favourites for the competition and a repeat victory in front of a large home crowd will further augment that reputation.

“The Aviva games are huge for the club,” Cullen told the Dublin Gazette ahead of Saturday’s tie.

“47,000 people coming out shows the strength of Leinster rugby, it’s a real point of difference

for Leinster. They’re showcases, special events that allow us to compete with teams around Europe, against the TV money that’s on offer in England and France. We’re competing against that all the time.

“Exeter won the English league ahead of the champions of Europe in Saracens and ahead of Wasps. They’re a strong club that has built slowly, in the right way, and they’re really difficult to play.”

It continues a hectic month for Leinster in a season which has already presented new challenges.

The double-header trip to South Africa in the Pro-14 in September is recalled as being “logistically difficult” with Leinster playing “guinea pigs”.

But the Christmas season holds its own challenges with the Exeter contest followed by games with Munster, Connacht and Ulster in quick succession.

“It’s very attritional but we have a really strong squad, which is becoming more important. We’re trying to make sure things like the South Africa trip don’t have any long term effect.

“When you play those away games, we’d normally fly home the night of the game but obviously that can’t happen in South Africa.

We flew home and couldn’t train until Wednesday for a game on Friday.

“It’s not ideal but it’s the reality of how you play now. It’s very squad focused, and it’s probably

one of the things that attracts players to Irish clubs over others.

“We do care for our players and we think a lot about the best man in. We’ll be chopping and changing throughout Christmas, as that’s the nature of it.”

The recent confirmation of Jordi Murphy’s departure for Ulster, after coming through the Leinster youth system, is a case in point.

“We have to deal with these things on a case by case basis,” Cullen explained. “It’s a highly competitive environment to be in. Obviously Jordi’s weighed up his options and decided his future lies elsewhere. We’re really sad to see him go, he was a great contributor.”



GAZETTE

BOXING P34

GAZETTE

34 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 14 December 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

BOXING: SALLYNOGGIN MAN LOOKING FORWARD TO MORE DREAM NIGHTS

Hermes-Monkstown’s Suzie Kelly. Picture: Deryck Vincent

Hermes-Monkstown off mark in national league HERMES-Monkstown ground out their first win of the women’s EY Hockey League campaign, tightening things up at the bottom of the table on Saturday when they beat Trinity on the first day of their double-header.

Christine Quinlan’s deflected shot from a penalty corner handed them their first goal since the opening day of the campaign after six blanks.

They were also bouyed by the arrival of South African Under-21 Natalie Esteves who almost prompted a second with a great ball to Caitriona McGilp who shot just wide.

Liz Murphy kept them narrowly in front with some great saves before Ailish Long got it back to 1-1 with 20 minutes to go from a well-worked corner, setting up a tense final phase of the game.

But McGilp settled the game when she buried a corner with 11 minutes left, a vital win that reduces the gap to ninth place Pembroke ahead of their key Sunday showdown. Trinity are also back in range, two points above them.

The Rathdown-based club, though, were unable to carry the momentum into Sunday’s second game against fellow strugglers Pembroke.

Aisling Naughton scored the only goal in a 1-0 win against her former club to give Pembroke a big boost, lifting them out of the relegation playoff place and into eighth place, leaving HermesMonkstown bottom over the Christmas break.

They made the best of the early exchanges with Erika Hinkson seeing a corner move deflected wide before Naughton got on the end of Gillian Pinder’s shot with a lovely finish for the only goal.

Pembroke carried that lead into half-time and went close to another when Hinkson intercepted between the two centre halves but Liz Murphy kept out her strike. Hermes-Monkstown awoke to draw Iseult Cambay into a couple of saves but Pembroke remained the more attacking force for much of the tie and grasped the three points.

Elsewhere, Loreto fell to a 3-1 defeat against Cork Harlequins in a tie swiftly moved from a frozen Beaufort to Booterstown. Two goals in the closing quarter saw the Munster side stay within a point of top placed UCD who beat Ards 1-0.

Sallynoggin man Jay Byrne raises the BUI belt he won last week at the Celtic Clash. Picture: Alan Finn

Byrne promises ring return  KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

JAY Byrne has revealed that he will not be hanging up his gloves just yet as he looks to build on his latest victory, which saw him claim the vacant BUI Celtic welterweight title.

Byrne left the National Stadium with the belt around his waist after stopping the hugely fancied prospect Gerard ‘Crank’ Whitehouse in the fourth round on the Celtic Clash 4 card earlier this month, and had hinted it may be the last time we see him in the ring.

He has, however, confirmed he is hungry to win more titles.

“I’ve discussed it with my missus, [and my team] Declan Geraghty, Tommy McCormack and Eddie Hyland as well, and all the lads think I should go now and push on,” Byrne told the Dublin Gazette from his hotel in Las Vegas.

“I won’t take little fights.

I won’t be going back to Dublin – no disrespect to journeymen – just selling tickets and fighting journeymen. Those days are gone for me.

“Before the fight, I had decided – win, lose or draw – I had done everything that I could have dreamed of in boxing. Although I lost the three fights on Sky, they were dream fights for me. They were nights were I came home with a smile on my face – bar the [Anthony] Fowler fight where I felt I just didn’t turn up.”

The fight with Whitehouse was one of the most eagerly anticipated in Ireland after a row broke out over Facebook between the two parties.

“At the end of March, I was asked to fight Gerard and I accepted straight away. I didn’t contemplate money, I just said yes I’ll fight him, send me over what you are offering,” said Byrne “I never go too much into the money side of it because I don’t do the boxing for money. But the contract never came over so I accepted the Josh Kelly fight a week later.

They then went on Facebook and started saying I didn’t want to fight and had accepted another fight.

“After the Josh Kelly

fight, they started to talk about it again so I said send me over the contract.

In the contract they sent over, they wanted me to pay them €1,500 out of the ticket money to fight. Why would I pay be paying to fight on your show?

“That makes no sense. I said I would make a show contribution of €500 if you want. They said no before Tony Davitt said I wasn’t a worthy opponent for Gerard. I said ‘ok grand’, so that went by the wayside.”

Byrne explained how he was then going to take a break over the summer before he was offered the

bout with Fowler. Two days after he was stopped

by Fowler, Byrne was approached again about fighting Whitehouse.

He says he was offered €2,000 for the fight only for it to be withdrawn and replaced with an offer of €500 after complaints from Davitt. Byrne refused to take the offer out of principal, and eventually agreed to enter the ring for €750.

As well as taking to the ring himself, Byrne has also started to dabble in the promotion and management side of the sport – signing hot prospect Karl Kelly to his books.

“I actually have Karl out in February; it’s going to be announced this week.

I had an offer for him to fight on Sky up in Belfast back in October. It was just a bit early for Karl, he’s a kid, he’s only 22. We will take chances with Karl.

I’m not going to paper him up, he knows that.

“He wants to go down the same road as me.

He wants to be in tough, tough fights and I know for a fact we will get him fights in Dublin and fights on the road.”

Byrne is now on the lookout for a new management company to represent him going forward.

Byrne skips away having left Gerard Whitehouse on the canvas. Picture: Alan Finn

14 December 2017 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 37

GAZETTE

LADIES FOOTBALL: DALKEY SIDE BENEFIT FROM GREATER FEMALE CLUB FOCUS forward to competing in division three next year and McKeown is confident the team can continue to impress.

“We actually beat division three and division two teams in the junior championship [this year] so it has given us great hope for the years ahead knowing that we can compete with the division three teams and go in with some sort of confidence.”

Cuala’s ladies footballers completed their treble early in December

Cuala’s dream treble success DIVISION 4 FINAL

 KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

CUALA’s ladies brought their excellent season to a remarkable end by completing the treble with victor y over O’Dwyers in their league and cup double header.

They had already enjoyed junior A championship success with victory over Lucan Sarsfields, before finishing the season by adding the

Division 4 league and cup titles to their tally in one fell swoop.

“It is brilliant. Tremendous,” Cuala mentor John McKeown told the Dublin Gazette. “We set down a few goals at the start of the season; in particular to improve on last season.

“To be honest with you, we surpassed our goals by winning all three titles so it was an exceptional year.

“The girls bought into it from an early age and,

as we always say, the snowball starts to roll.

“We started off with a good few wins in the cup, which would be a secondary competition, and that built the momentum.

Commitment “We got great commitment from training and from matches, and from people actually trying to make themselves available so really it was about the strength in depth in our panel as well.

“The girls are at such an age now where a lot of them are going off on Erasmus or for work in America or wherever, but the strength in depth in the panel saw us through; the summer months in particular.”

Cuala’s form was a stark improvement on last year and McKeown explained how a decision taking by the management was a contributing factor. “ We g o t a n o t h e r group of girls coming up

from minor, which were those born in 1998, but we made a crucial decision by bringing up the 1999 girls as well.

“So, the big decision was do we put in two minor teams and two adult teams or do we bring up the 1999 girls and put in two strong adult teams and one minor team?

“T hat seems to be what a lot of the other club teams in the county were doing as well.”

Cuala can now look

Success With Cuala’s men’s teams achieving so much success in recent years, many at the club will now be delighted to see the ladies write their own piece of history.

“It is the first time that the ladies have been taken really seriously within the club.

“T hey were always ‘it’s very good the ladies are doing well’ but if you look on the website even, our victory is actually at the top of the list of victories now.

“We are up there with as much impor tance within the club and that really is to do with the few people within the club who would have had an interest in ladies football during the early years,” McKeown concluded.

FastGAA SOUTHSIDE DUB STARS: KILMACUD Crokes’ Cian O’Sullivan, Pat Burke and Paul Mannion and Cuala’s Michael Fitzsimons were all named in the starting line-up for the annual Dub Stars’ senior football side that will play the Dublin senior football panel on December 23.

The Stars team represents the pick of the performers from the 2017 club championship taking on the county side.

The team will be dominated by St Vincent’s men following their run to the title with a half dozen named in the starting line-up while there are also five players from finalists Ballymun Kickhams due to be involved.

The game will be hosted by St Vincent’s with the football taking place at 12.30pm followed by the hurling at 2pm.

CLUB NOTICEBOARD

senior Dub Stars team earlier this week. Special mention too for John McKeown who takes a place on the management team.

Well done to Jennifer Dunne who was named as the DLGFA Players’ Minor Player of the Year last Sunday.

Well done also to Sinead Wylde who has been named on the Dublin minor camogie squad for 2018 and to Saoirse O’Donnell and Jennifer Sheerin who were named on the U-16 squad.

Congratulations to Grainne O’Driscoll who was named the Dublin Ladies Football 2017 U-16 Player of the Year.

Cuala SSIP are seeking singers, Ultras and anybody else who can play an instrument for carol singing in conjunction with the Dun Laoghaire Outreach Project (DROP) on Saturday, December 16 outside St Michael’s Church, Dun Laoghaire.

All money raised will go to the Simon Community and DROP. If you are available on the day, please let Dayo know at cualassip@gmail.com.

A big thanks to Ciaran and the staff in the Druid’s Chair for hosting the adult football Christmas party. Congrats to all the winners of various

awards presented.

This week’s Cuala lotto jackpot will be €12,500.

Our lucky dip winners last week were Eithne Thompson and Mary Meagher.

The club AGM is on Thursday, December 14 in the Royal Marine hotel at 8pm.

KILMACUD CROKES

THE hurling section AGM will take place on Sunday, December 17 in the function room at 8pm. All are welcome to attend.

Well done to all involved in organising

and supporting the annual club benevolent draw which took place on Saturday last in the club. A great night was had by all.

Congrats to all involved in the Crokes Choir which was formed under our healthy club banner.

They have practiced diligently for the last six weeks and gave a brilliant performance in the shopping centre on Saturday, raising funds for Laura Lynn.

Annual Christmas pitch and putt will take place on Saturday, December 16. Usual format - any funds raised will go to the

benevolent fund.

Contact Gerry Greene for info.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish all our members and their families a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous new year.

SHANKILL

THERE was great excitement at the academy on Saturday morning as we had a visit from Santa who had a present for every boy and girl in the club.

The academy is taking a break and will resume training in St Laurence College at 10am on

Saturday, January 20, 2018.

Our committee and members would like to wish one and all “A Happy and Peaceful Christmas”.

The AGM will be held in St Anne’s Resource Centre Shankill at 8pm on Monday, January 28, 2018. Notice of motions or nominations for the committee must be submitted in writing to the secretary before the end of December 2017.

Ladies adult football team is going from strength to strength with all abilities catered for so check out our Facebook page and follow the link to the ladies Facebook group; e-mail

stevedavis203@gmail. com or contact Steve on 087 6414123.

The men’s adult football team have ambitions to climb up through the league divisions so new players are always welcome; contact Kevin on 086 8449902.

For more information on the club, contact secretary.shankill. dublingaa.ie or call 086 4010438.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Join Shankill GAA Club, your community, your Village GAA club where everybody knows your name.

38 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 14 December 2017

14 December 2017 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 35