Dublin Gazette: South Edition by Dublin Gazette

DublinGazette JANUARY 3-9, 2019

YEARINREVIEW: The highs, the lows, and everything in between – we look back on some of the top stories from 2018 FROM PAGE 4

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THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE DUN LAOGHAIRE-RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL AREA Picture: Alison O’Hanlon

Happy New Year! SPORT

THE YEAR IN REVIEW: We look back on an incredible year on the local, national and international stage for Dublin’s sport stars SEE P27-31

travel

EXPLORE SOME NEW HORIZONS IN THIS NEW YEAR SEE P18

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

THREE young lads have been praised for their musical talents as they were spotted ‘singing up a storm’ in Dun Laoghaire over the Christmas. SEE PAGE 3

FIREWORKS WOW The year started with quite a bang in the city centre – and whatever 2019 holds in store, you’ll find it all covered right here in your very own Dublin Gazette! So keep reading, and Happy New Year to everyone!

‘Vital link road must take precedence’ REBECCA RYAN

Find us on

Talented trio praised

THERE are calls for urgent construction of the Leopardstown Link Road after a substantial housing development got the green light. Planners gave the go ahead for the construction of 341 housing units and a childcare facility near the Glencairn

Luas stop, which was fast-tracked as a designated Strategic Housing Development. Local Minister and Dublin Rathdown TD Josepha Madigan has called for progress on the planned Leopardstown Link Road, as part of improved transport links in the area to avoid traffic chaos. “Given the ongoing housing crisis, I

note the news that planning has been granted for 341 apartments at the Glencairn Strategic Housing Development. “Good planning principles mean that such a development should be accompanied by improved transport infrastructure to avoid increased traffic pressures.” CONTINUES ON PAGE 2

Three men charged after raid

SEE PAGE 2

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 3 January 2019

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LOCAL PHARMACY PRAISED FOR KEEPING CUSTOMERS SAFE

FROM PAGE 1

Three men charged after knife and hatchet raid

Call for urgent building of Link Road

A LOCAL Minister has thanked a local pharmacy for keeping her and others safe during an armed robbery in Stillorgan on Saturday. At around 6.15pm on Saturday, two men wearing masks entered Centra on Lower Kiilmacud Road and threatened staff with a knife and hatchet. They left on foot with a sum of cash. Gardai responding to the incident intercepted the car as it attempted to leave the carpark outside the shop. Two men in the car, aged in their 30s and 40s were arrested. A Garda spokesperson said a sum of cash along with a hammer and axe were recovered from the

 REBECCA RYAN

rryan@dublingazette.com

car. No one was injured during the raid. The three men appeared in Dublin District Court on New Year’s Eve charged in connection with the investigation. The Minister for Culture, Josepha Madigan, said she was in a local pharmacy during the raid who locked its doors during the incident to protect customers. “Many thanks to the local pharmacy who locked its doors and kept

No one was injured during the raid in Stillorgan

me and some other scared people safe. “It was quite scary in real time. At least perpetrators were caught, and

no one injured,” said Minister Madigan. Well wishes have been expressed for the locals and staff involved in the

incident. One wrote on social media: “Hope all the staff are ok after this horrible ordeal.”

Enjoying a tale as old as time in Dundrum FIONNUALA and Rose Cloke pictured at the Beauty and the Beast panto at the Mill Theatre. See More pics on pages 8 and 9. Picture: ALISON O’HANLON

“The Leopardstown Link Road is already part of the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Development Plan and should take precedence with the news of this development. Such measures are important to avoid traffic chaos both during and after construction. “In addition, I would like to see a feasibility study into the ability of local bus and Luas links to handle the increased capacity, along with appropriate community facilities. “I will be raising this issue with transport providers and with Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council,” said Minister Madigan. Local councillor Lynsey McGovern also highlighted the importance of better transport links for the local area as well as community facilities. “Glencairn, Sandyford, and the surrounding areas are seeing big population increases and it is important that local transport links are able to handle this. “In addition, it is vital that the necessary community facilities such as playgrounds and green spaces are provided as part of this development, said Cllr McGovern. Local Councillor Lettie Mc Carthy (LAB) told Dublin Gazette transport infrastructure needs to be priority. “It is very worrying to see the rate of planning applications being granted in advance of necessary transport infrastructure. “Luas has reached peak time capacity and there appears to be no plan as to how it will cope as Cherrywood develops. “The planned road works in the general area will create mayhem over the next few years and we are still in the dark regarding Metro proposal.”

3 January 2019 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

DUN LAOGHAIRE: LOCAL LADS ARE PRAISED FOR THEIR MUSICAL TALENTS

Trio bring their music to the masses REBECCA RYAN

THREE young lads have been praised for their musical talents as they were spotted ‘singing up a storm’ in Dun Laoghaire over the Christmas. Cousins Cathal(11), Sean(16) and Tom(19) formed the band Caseto five years ago, and created the name of the group from the first initials of their names combined. The talented band told Dublin Gazette that they come from

a music family and have always been interested in music. “We come from a very musical family and play music together as often as we can. “We each play multiple instruments; lead, bass, rhythm guitars, drums, piano and everybody in the band sings. “We write our own songs too. We play all sorts of music and our influences are U2, Ed Sheeran, Queen, Michael Jackson,

Green Day, Bon Jovi, Toto, George Ezra [and] Bruno Mars.” The lads also like to give back with their talents with fundraising events where they can. In October, Caseto played in Bray as part of the ‘Shop for Change’ fundraising campaign to raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society. They said: “BT Ireland raised €186,269 for the Irish Cancer Society, and we played a small part in

this fundraising, by performing outside one of the cancer care Shops in Bray. “We had a great day entertaining the people of Bray and the fact that we helped raise some money for this great charity, was a bonus.” The cousins’ band has been gaining traction as they busk across Dublin and play gigs, picking up new supporters along the way. People have been praising their musical

HISTORY

Famous local racer remembered

Caseto busking at Dun Laoghaire harbour

abilities and “excellent covers” online. One wrote: “Absolutely Class boys!! 10 out of 10 for sound and video! Looking forward to the next one already.” While another wrote: “Excellent

cover. Very tight and great vocals. Well done. I feel so untalented when I watch these lads.” A passerby on Dun Laoghaire East Pier wrote: “Great to hear music on the pier today. I enjoyed it.”

C a se to’s d re a m is to one day get a recording contract and release their own music. To follow the ir music, you can find them on social media at ‘Caseto Official’. Watch this space.

THE Mount Merrion Historical Society are hosting a talk on a famous local motorcycle racer today (Thursday). Stanley Woods (19031993) was a well-known pre-war motorcycle racing champion and boasted a lifetime total of 26 European Grand Prix wins, ten Isle of Man TT’s and held the world stage in motorcycle racing during the 1920s and 30s, bringing great honour to Dublin and his country. The talk takes place January 3 at 8pm in The Community Centre, Mount Merrion. Tickets are €4.00 (Students €2.00), with no charge for members. See www.mountmerrionhistorical.com for more information. An event not to be missed by anyone with an interest in motorcycling.

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 3 January 2019

YEAR IN REVIEW

A LOOK BACK AT SOME OF 2018’S TOP STORIES IN

Remembering 2018 – ... the RMS Leinster Centenary celebrations, a nudist friendly beach landed in Dalkey and the Lambert Theatre closed January RATHFARNHAM ROAD CLOSES DUE TO ILLEGAL WORKS

SOUTH Dublin County Council ordered the temporary, emergency closure of part of the Edmondstown Road to facilitate immediate remedial works on the road. The need for these works was caused by illegal excavation and development work along the Owendoher river, which weakened the structure of the road. The road was closed for 300 meters, between the Merry Ploughboy Pub and Tibradden Road. Local access was maintained for those living in the area, however many diversions were in place, adding a 5km detour to any journey. Several local businesses were affected by the road closure. GOATSTOWN GIRL WINS A MAJOR PRIZE

A STUDENT at Jesus and Mary College, Goatstown, won a major prize at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition. Emma Bobos, a transition year student at the school, won for her project on internet VPN’s, also known as “Virtual Private Networks”. Emma’s project, VPN – One in Every Home, aimed to establish a setup that would provide a file share

on a home desktop, and allow a laptop to safely connect to the share through a VPN connection to keep personal data safe. LAST VOYAGE OF THE LEINSTER

A NEW book was released commemorating the sinking of the Dun Laoghaire to Holyhead Mail Boat RMS Leinster. The Last Voyage of the Leinster was published by the Mail Boat Leinster Centenary Committee with assistance from Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council. The boat was torpedoed by a German U-Boat 123 while on passage from Kingstown (now Dun Laoghaire) to Holyhead. More Irish people died on the Leinster than on the Titanic or the Lusitania.

February CHURCHTOWN ANGLER SMASHES RECORD

CHURCHTOWN-BASED angler Ian Mulligan smashed the Golden Grey Mullet record. The new record, weighing 1.29 kg, was caught at Rosscarbery, Co Cork, on July 4, 2017. The Irish Specimen Fish Committee ratified this new Irish record fish. As well as the new record, detailed information on 422 specimen fish (large fish) taken by anglers from venues

throughout Ireland in 2017, comprising many different spec ies, is detailed in a report. The main species were smaller shark species like Smooth hound and Spurdog and, in freshwater, Carp dominated. All fish were caught, weighed, measured and released. Anglers were presented with their awards and certificates at the ISFC Awards Day on February 17, 2018. GIRL, 3, DIES AFTER ALLEGED ASSAULT

A THREE-YEAR-OLD girl died following an alleged assault in Shankill. Emergency services were called to a house on the afternoon of Saturday, February 10. The girl was taken by ambulance to Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital in Crumlin. A Garda spokesperson said “The machine was switched off yesterday morning - Tuesday, February 13 2018 and the child was pronounced dead.” A woman in her 40s was charged in relation to an incident of assault and was brought before a special sitting of Bray District Court on February 11 at 8pm. GLENALBYN SAGA TAKES ANOTHER TWIST

THE Glenalbyn Swimming Pool saga took another twist in February.

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Shane Ross offered to put forward an independent mediator in an effort to progress the much-delayed facility. In his letter shown to Dublin Gazette to Chairperson of Kilmacud Crokes GAA Club Kevin Foley and Chief Executive of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council Philomena Poole, Minister Ross proposed that the parties involved engage with a resolution process and that the Assistant Secretary General of his department, Ken Spratt, is willing to arrange a mediation, to be chaired by an independent qualified mediator from Sport Ireland. Meanwhile, there were concerns that the pool was not included in the new draft Local Area Plan for Stillorgan 2018-2024.

JANUARY: Emma Bobos from Jesus and Mary College, Goatstown, won a major prize at the BT Young Scientist ExhibitionAmendment (see story)

APRIL: Caitlin Reardon from Rathfarnham was named World Champion of the Cumann Rince Dea Mheasa

MARCH:

(CRDM) World Championships. protesting

CALL TO PROTECT DUNDRUM’S CHARACTER

THERE were concerns that re-development plans for Dundrum Main Street would cause the village to lose its character. Imagine Dundrum is a voluntary group of local residents concerned about Dundrum’s future. They have been working together since early 2016 to influence the redevelopment of Dundrum Village. In support of this objective, Imagine Dundrum made a submission to Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council for the

APRIL: Mary Kate Slattery from Mount Merrion was selected for the Washington

FEBRUARY: Minister Shane Ross and Cllr

Ireland Programme (see story)

outside Glenalbyn Swimming Pool. (see

main street to be designated as an Architectural Conservation Area. Imagine Dundrum also launched a booklet on the history of Dundrum’s main street on March 6th at 8pm.

March UCD INTRODUCED GENDER-NEUTRAL LOOS

UNIVERSITY College Dublin (UCD) introduced gender-neutral toilets and changing facilities as part of the launch of its Gender Identity and Expression Policy. More than 170 toilets were redesignated across the entire campus as “gender-neutral” while transgender changing facilities were introduced at its sports centre.

UCD said the move is one of a number of policies to make Belfield Campus more welcoming to transgender and genderfluid students and employees. The college also said the policy, for the first time, allows trans and gender non-binary employees and students to change their records and have their preferred name used

3 January 2019 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

YEAR IN REVIEW

THE SOUTH DUBLIN AREA yer was appointed into a senior role under Trump’s administration at the White House. Gail Slater, originally from the South Dublin suburb, born Gail Conlon, has been living Stateside since 2003. She graduated from UCD with a law degree before moving over to the US where she now has dual US-Irish citizenship. Slater was appointed as advisor to the President on technology, telecommunications and cybersecurity. NUDIST-FRIENDLY BEACH LANDS IN DALKEY JANUARY: The Council ordered the temporary, emergency closure of part of the Edmondstown Road to facilitate immediate remedial works (see story) Picture: Aerial.ie

Students, parents and teachers of Clonkeen College outside Leinster House (see story)

FEBRUARY:

Deirdre Donnelly (Ind) story)

across university systems – without the requirement to produce a gender recognition certificate. APPEAL FOR HELP AFTER EXOTIC BIRDS ESCAPE

THERE was an appeal to locals to keep their eyes peeled for rare exotic birds that went missing in Rathfarnham. During Storm Emma, the roof of Marlay Park

CHURCHTOWN angler Ian Mulligan smashed the Golden Grey Mullet record aviary collapsed from heavy snowfall. Birds like kakariki, cockatiels, red rumps, budgies and diamond doves escaped. A local wildlife expert said a few of the birds were caught but there could be up to two dozen missing! DALKEY WOMAN BECAME TRUMP ADVISOR

A DALKEY-BORN law-

IRELAND got its first official signposted nudist beach and it landed in Dalkey. Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council put up public notices at Hawk Cliff to make people aware about seeing bathers in the nip. A spokesperson from Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council told Dublin Gazette that although they are not designating the beach as a nudist beach, they are however “arranging for signage at this location to advise the public that they may encounter nude bathers”. Local councillor John Bailey said he was very annoyed it didn’t come before the council and said: “I’m not against people who want to do that, that’s their choice, but I don’t think it’s good for young children and families.” President of the Irish Naturist Association Pat Gallagher welcomed the news. HUNDREDS PROTEST TO SAVE SCHOOL PITCHES

HUNDREDS of students, parents and teachers of Clonkeen College hoping to save their school’s sports pitches, took their battle to Leinster House. The protest outside the Dail was in a bid to stop their playing fields being sold to a private property developer. It was announced last year that 7.5 acres of pitches at the Deansgrange school was to be sold for a price tag reported to be

around €18 million.

amateur Irish boxer.

April

FAMILY TAKES LEGAL ACTION OVER BLAZE

VOLUNTEERS TRIP TO REBUILD HAITI

FIVE heroes from South Dublin travelled to Haiti for Haven’s 2018 Volunteer Programme. The Irish NGO who work on the ground in Haiti, undertook its 12th annual volunteer trip to Haiti from 13-22 April 2018. D e r m o t He f fe r n a n (C a b i n te e l y) , Ja m e s Codd (Cabinteely), Catherine Sweeney (Loughlinstown), and Brendan and Agatha White (Glenageary), along with 31 other volunteers, set off on the life-changing experience. This year’s Volunteer Programme saw the group travel to the small commune of Gressier, to play an important role in supporting the people of Gressier, who are still working to rebuild their lives after the devastating earthquake in 2010. Volunteers led the refurbishment and upgrade of the main building of the local Jean School, which has six classrooms and serves 160 children. LOCAL GIRL PICKED FOR NOTABLE PROGRAMME

A LOCAL student has been selected for this year’s Washington Ireland Programme (WIP). Mary Kate Slattery from Mount Merrion joined a class of 30 student participants representing Ireland and Northern Ireland at WIP this year. WIP inspires and develops promising leaders through a programme committed to building a future of peace and prosperity for the north and south of Ireland. WIP has notable alums serving as Taoiseach (Leo Varadkar, WIP Class of 2000), Lord Mayor of Belfast (Nuala McAllister, WIP Class of 2010), and in Westminster (Emma Little Pengelly, WIP Class of 2002). Mary Kate Slattery, 21, is a third-year law student at Trinity College and is also a full time

THE family of two children who were left orphaned by a fire at a halting site in Carrickmines sued Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council. The blaze, on Glenamuck Road, which claimed the lives of 10 people, was described as the worst to happen in Ireland since the Stardust tragedy in 1981. Michael and Tom Connors, who are 9 and 7 years old respectively, lost their parents Tom (28) and Sylvia (30) in the blaze, along with their siblings Jim (5), Christy (3) and six-monthold. HAMLEYS SHUTS ITS DUNDRUM TOY STORE

THE popular toy store Hamleys in the Pembroke District at Dundrum Town Centre permanently closed its doors. Hamleys of London

(which calls itself The Finest Toy Shop in the World) is 258 years old. It was founded by Cornishman William Hamley in 1760; the Dundrum location was opened 10 years ago, in 2008. The Dundrum store is the only Hamleys location in all of Ireland.

garda was also bitten by a dog during the search and required hospital treatment. In a follow up operation, a residence was searched on Ballyogan Avenue by gardai and a man in his 50s was arrested, along with a number of items seized, but the man was released.

May

IRELAND’S MOST EXPENSIVE SCHOOL

RESIDENTS DISGUSTED BY ASSAULT ON GARDA

SYMPATHIES poured in after an assault on a Garda in Ballyogan. At around 7.30pm on Saturday, April 28, two gardai tried to search a man on Ballyogan Avenue. A large crowd quickly gathered outside a house and a metal baseball bat was produced. One garda was hit with the bat a number of times causing injuries to his body, head and face. He was taken to Tallaght Hospital and another

IRELAND’S most expensive school came to Leopardstown. Development of the Nord Anglia International School (NAIS) Dublin began in January and will be ready for the school opening in September 2018. The exclusive school charges day pupils up to €24,000 a year and will have a pupil-teacher ratio of about nine to one. The school will eventually educate students from the age of 3-18 years old. Continued overleaf on Page 6

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 3 January 2019

YEAR IN REVIEW Continued from Page 5

June

‘WE WERE WARNED OF HORRIFIC CONDITIONS’

A DUBLIN man spoke at the National Yacht Club in Dun Laoghaire, hosted by the Rotary Club, on June 7 on his experience completing the world’s toughest row in record time. Thomas Browne (27) from Terenure set off with three rowers from Cork, Sean Underwood, Patrick O’Connor and Eoin O’Farrell on December 14 2017 from La Gomera in the Canary Islands for the 5,500km Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. The four-man crew, Relentless Rowers, crossed the finish line in Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour, Antigua, 32 days, 22-hours and four minutes later. The Relentless Rowers finished sixth overall out of a field of 26, becoming the fastest Republic of Ire-

land crew to complete the epic challenge. FLOSSIE LEADS WAY FOR PLASTIC-FREE SEA

E L E V E N -Y E A R - O L D beach clean activist, Flossie Donnelly, led a crowd of several hundred enthusiasts through the streets of Dun Laoghaire, to call for an end to plastic pollution. Flossie’s ‘March for the Oceans’ was one of dozens of events to take place around the globe in recognition of World Ocean Day. After the march, Flossie thanked everyone for joining her and said: “We can make a big difference to the health of our oceans by making a few small changes. Use reusable coffee cups and drinks bottles and refuse plastic straws.” WELL KNOWN DANCE TEACHER TURNS 100

A CHAMPION Irish dancer from Dun Laoghaire turned 100 years in June. Kathleen Bastable,

A LOOK BACK AT SOME OF 2018’S TOP STORIES

known to many as Miss Bunty, was born on June 21, 1918. Kathleen started dancing when she aged three. She had such a passion for Irish dancing that at the age of 18 she founded her own school, The St Colmcille School of Irish Dancing. Kathleen has taught many Irish dancers, including wellknown Irish dancer Kevin Massey and Michael Flatley. She is much-loved in the Dun Laoghaire community and is known for her countless fund raising and charity dances over the years. RMS LEINSTER CENTENARY EVENTS

THE RMS Leinster Centenary events were officially launched in Dun Laoghaire in June. A pre-centenary gathering of families and relatives of those who were aboard the boat when it

sunk in 1918, was held in the Royal Marine Hotel on Sunday. Hundreds of relatives and friends of the Mail Boat Leinster passengers gathered to hear details of the planned centenary events. ROSEMOUNT RESIDENTS HOLD PROTEST

FRUSTRATED locals at Rosemount Estate in Dundrum held protests over health and safety concerns in their estate. There is currently a building site in the middle of the estate developing 44 news social housing units to replace the former Rosemount flats. The residents said that construction traffic is causing the roads and paths to be impassable for the elderly, disabled, parents with buggies and emergency vehicles. Another issue they said they are facing is that their bins have not been collected in Rosemount Glade in two months, due to access issues which is causing a rat and rodent infestation.

JUNE: Relentless Rowers, Thomas Browne, Sean Underwood, Patrick O’Connor and Eoin O’Farrell completing the world’s toughest row in record time (see story)

July

JASTINE LAID TO REST IN PHILIPPINES

JASTINE Valdez was laid to rest in her hometown in the Philippines, six weeks after she was murdered. The Enniskerry student’s funeral took place in Aritao where hundreds of mourners attended. Ms Valdez was abducted and killed while walking near her home in Enniskerry in May. The next day her suspected murderer Mark Hennessy, originally from Ballybrack but living in Bray, was shot dead by a garda in Carrickmines. Ms Valdez’s body was found two days later in the Puckscastle/Rathmichael area. DEATH OF FORMER MINISTER AND SENATOR

FORMER Dun Laoghaire TD, Government Minister and Senator, Martin O’Donoghue died at the age of 85. Mr O’Donoghue was first elected to Dail Éireann as a TD in the 1977

JUNE: Flossie Donnelly led the

JUNE: Cillin and Padraig Allen at the RMS Leinster

way for a plastic-free sea

Centenary events launch. Photo Paul Sherwood

(see story)

general election for the Dun Laoghaire constituency. The then Taoiseach Jack Lynch appointed him a minister on his first day in the Dail. Mr O’Donoghue served in Cabinet twice; Minister of Economic Planning and Development and later Minister for Education. He later served in Seanad Eireann where he remained until 1987. SPORT

A ROW over plans to sell off land by the Christian Brothers at a Deansgrange school, which went to the High Court, was settled. The agreement will see the donation of almost four acres of land by the Christian Brothers to the Edmund Rice Schools Trust (ERST),

which will ensure firstclass sports facilities at Clonkeen College. The outcome has been welcomed by the school’s parents’ association, praising the Board of Management for their bravery in taking this case to the High Court. Continued on Page 8

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3 January 2019 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 3 Janaury 2019

YEAR IN REVIEW the vocational services for students with mild learning disabilities were guilty of implementing “nasty, behind the door cuts to critical vocational services provided to vulnerable children”.

Continued from Page 6

August JACKSONS PLAY DUN LAOGHAIRE CONCERT

Michelle Murray and Stephen McEvoy with Ryan and Scott. Pictures: ALISON OHANLON

Beauty and The Beast at The Mill Theatre

LOCALS enjoyed a tale as old as time, featuring a host of well-loved characters and lovable crockery as the Mill Theatre hosted the Beauty and the Beast panto.

Glauce and Enrico Ferrari

A story of friendship and love, mixing magic and adventure with spectacular song and dance routines and special effects to entertain all the family! See More pics on page 9

Eoin and Charlie Lawlor

THE Jacksons performed live in Ireland for the very first time and they chose Dun Laoghaire as their stage. One of the greatest pop and Motown super groups in the history of music headlined as part of last summer’s Beatyard Festival at Dun Laoghaire Harbour on August Bank Holiday Weekend. The three-day event also hosted other performers including hip hop legends the Sugarhill Gang, US jazz sensation Kamasi Washington, English electronic dance music duo Orbital and Irish electronic duo I Am The Cosmos.

NO MEN’S SHED FOR ROSEMOUNT

THE drive for a muchneeded Men’s Shed to be located in cabins adjacent to the football grounds at Rosemount estate in Dundrum, came unstuck. Local residents identified the need for a Men’s Shed in the area, which has the highest number of over 65s in the county and where loneliness, isolation and marginalisation of men is a cause for concern. A pop-up Men’s Shed was held in the area in August and was well supported by men of all ages. They said all they wanted was a place to have a chat and a cup of tea. However, a spokesperson for Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Counc il declared that the cabins are unsuitable for community facilities like a Men’s Shed, despite outrage from the community and from local elected representatives.

HOUSE OF FRASER STOPS ACCEPTING GIFT CARDS

DUNDRUM shoppers were left reeling as the new House of Fraser owners were not honouring gift vouchers. House of Fraser stopped accepting gift cards and vouchers after it was placed into administration. Sports Direct rescued the store with a £90m deal however, the Dundrum store must deal with regulatory issues before a takeover can be complete. Local Senator Neale Richmond (FG) urged the new owners of the department store to honour existing gift vouchers. ‘SNEAKY STEALTH CUTS’ AT SCHOOL SLAMMED

A LOOK BACK AT

DRIVERS WARNED ON MARLAY PARK CAR SCAM

A LOCAL TD condemned cuts and “broken ministerial promises” at Augustine’s Special Education School in Blackrock. In a statement, People Before Profit TD for Dun Laoghaire Richard Boyd Barrett TD condemned “disgraceful” and “sneaky, stealth cuts” to the “vital vocational serSPORT vices” at the school. Deputy Boyd Barrett said that St John of Gods, who run the school and the HSE, who funds

LOCALS were warned of a car scam in Marlay Park. There had been reports of robbers opening car doors or boots when people had just parked. The owner of the vehicle then locks the vehicle and walks away not knowing that the door or boot is open and comes back to find their belongings robbed. Locals were shocked by the reports and many are condemning the incidents.

AUGUST: Lydia Corley with her sister Sophie from Blackrock. Lydia took on Challenge 21 for the second time to support her sister Sophie who has down syndrome.

September ICONIC LAMBERT PUPPET THEATRE CLOSES

THE LAMBERT Puppet Theatre in Monkstown closed its doors after more than four decades. The theatre is home of iconic children’s TV programmes such as Bosco and Wanderly Wagon. The decision to sell the building was as a result of increasing financial pressures. Home to Ireland’s oldest puppet company, it was founded in 1972 by Eugene

Lambert and his family and was officially opened by Gay Byrne. The theatre’s director, Liam Lambert, who is Eugene’s son, told RTE’s Morning Ireland that the company took a hit during the recession. EDMONDSTOWN ROAD RESIDENTS CELEBRATE

SOUTH DUBLIN residents were celebrating after South Dublin County Council (SDCC) announced that repair works would be carried out on Edmondstown Road. The road was closed i n Nove m b e r 2 0 1 7 n n after illegal excavaEditio Editio South South FREE FREE tion works caused the s a 8 P1 Outrage f partial collapse of the o e Hous ps road, which was forco t s r e s a Fr SPORT g ing motorists to take acceptin s d r a c t gif a detour of more than 5km. RT SUPPO 18 T 20 MING UP DRUM LTURE NIGH FOR CU SDCC said that legal process

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3 January 2019 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

SOME OF 2018’S TOP STORIES IN SOUTH DUBLIN

YEAR IN REVIEW

Beauty and The Beast at The Mill Theatre

AUGUST: The Jacksons performed live in Ireland for the very first time and they chose Dun Laoghaire as their stage. (see story)

Adrian, Michelle, Carrie and Charlotte Guckion SEPTEMBER: Hailed as a “legend”, Postmaster Frank

SEPTEMBER: Repercussions from the recession

MacNamara retired from Ballinteer Post Office after

forced the iconic Lambert Puppet Theatre to close.

13 years of service

(see story)

against the unauthorised excavation is taking longer than expected and that it would undertake repairs in case the condition of the road worsens. SDCC said a contractor had been appointed and works would start within the next two weeks. LOCAL ARTIST DRAWS PLENTY OF ATTENTION

A TALENTED artist from Glencullen painted a picture of one of his sporting heroes and got the chance to meet him. Andre Mooney’s popular art burst onto the scene in the last year. He has already met the likes of Johnny Sexton, Gerry Adams, Denis Irwin, Dublin GAA players and recently Mo Salah to show them his paintings and get them signed. He met Paul Scholes

who signed his painting. CON MEN TARGET ELDERLY IN CABINTEELY

THERE were reports that elderly residents in Cabinteely were being targeted by con men operating in the area. One of the reports said that two men offered an elderly resident to clean their house gutters for €80. When the job was completed the men demanded €800. “The frightened resident was then driven by the individuals to a bank to get the cash.” A second inc ident reported two men offering “free” furniture to elderly residents but then leaving the furniture in their house and demanding money. Local group Cabinteely Life encouraged people in the area to report any-

thing suspicious to Gardai and also called on the community to look out for elderly neighbours. NEW CHAPTER FOR STILLORGAN LIBRARY

STILLORGAN Library was set for a big boost with €1.5m in funding. The Library is over 35 years old and is currently housed in a 1970s prefab. It has 100,000 users each year. The funding is from the Department of Rural and Community Development’s Library Capital Investment Programme and the new library is being developed by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council who will provide the balance of funding for the project. WARNING AFTER ‘ATTEMPTED ABDUCTION’

A LOCAL counc illor called on residents to

be “extra vigilant” after reports of “attempted abduction” in the Ballybrack area. Gardai in Shankill investigated reports that a man asked a young woman to get into his car at Aran Drive last Tuesday. Cllr Cormac Devlin (FF) told Dublin Gazette the incident is “very worrying”. He said: “It’s a residential area, there are no problems. “ It’s a little shortcut, it’s not a dodgy laneway, there have never been any problems in it.” Cllr Devlin advised: “What we really need is for people to be vigilant, especially in the darker evenings. People need to be conscious of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity. Continued overleaf on Page 10

Adrienne and Freya Ferguson

Ruth, Rena and Caoimhe Killeen

Ivy and Mark Jordan

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 3 January 2019

Top stories of 2018

‘Mikkel D’ romps home as President, but raises questions over expenses POPULAR President Michael D Higgins successfully ran again to be President, largely running rings around his fellow candidates. He showed some of the shrewd acumen that’s made him a stalwart of the Irish political scene for decades, declaring his interest in running again late in the game, leaving rivals with relatively little time to organise their campaigns – indeed, Sinn Fein were the only party to nominate a candidate to run against him, although their choice only secured 6.3% of the tally. Landslide win In the end, Higgins romped past the post in late October with a landslide win – 55.8% of the vote – far ahead of rivals, although Independent candidate Peter Casey proved the dark horse of the race. He surged out of nowhere with 23% of the vote, seemingly swept along by controversial comments that drew plenty of criticism in the media – but also earned him plenty of votes at the

YEAR IN REVIEW October KIDS SET OFF FIREWORKS NEAR DOGS

A LOCAL animal cruelty prevention charity issued a strong warning after a video showing children setting off a firework beside a woman out walking her dogs in Rathfarnham went viral. The shocking footage was shared on 98FM’s Dublin Talks. Gillian Bird from The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) told Dublin Gazette: “We have a very high visitation to local schools. We do a big campaign every year with Dublin Fire Brigade and Dublin Bus. “We are quite shocked that it’s happening. Parents, do you know where your kids are? Please remind them that fireworks are illegal and extremely dangerous.”

Council (DLRCC), failed to obtain the necessary foreshore licence to lease the building. Planning permission was secured in August which would attract the world’s best-known technology companies to Dun Laoghaire. It was expected to support 1,000 jobs and bring additional annual income of around €6 million per year to the town.

SALE OF “KEY HOUSING SITES” DRAWS ANGER

THERE was “anger” after councillors voted to proceed with the sale of “key housing sites” that were earmarked for social, affordable and Traveller accommodation. At October’s monthly meeting of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, councillors voted to proceed with the sale of two publicly owned sites, Georges Depot in central Dun Laoghaire and Mount Anville. A motion put forward by People Before Profit councillors not to proceed with the sale of the sites was voted “down by councillors in Fine Gael and Fianna Fail who voted in favour of selling the sites to offset the monies needed to fund the capital budget”.

CALLS FOR CCTV TO TACKLE GRAFFITI

THERE were calls for CCTV at the pedestrian bridge over the DART line in Blackrock after a surge in graffiti. Blackrock Tidy Towns spend hours painting the bridge with murals to cover up graffiti, but vandals are destroying it by graffiti on a regular basis. Blackrock Tidy Towns said they are “absolutely devastated”. EX-SOLDIER SLEEPING IN CAR PLEADS FOR HOME

ballot box. The effortless victory for President Higgins was soured, however, by rivals’ criticisms over expenses and expenditure incurred by his office, who raised some sharp questions over everything from the cost of feeding his beloved dogs to the use of the government jet to travel to Belfast.

ing operation. Te r r i to l d D u b l i n Gazette she is looking for homeless accommodation on the southside, so she is close to her support system to recover.

Continued from Page 9

LUCKY ESCAPE FOR PUP AFTER SWALLOWING 30CM ARROW

A LOCAL pup had a lucky escape after surgery saved him when he swallowed a 30cm children’s arrow whole. Four-month-old Hungarian Vizsla Loki was taken into the Village Vets in Stillorgan by his owner when the pup was out of sorts and vomiting. The vet on duty, Ruth Wo l fs o n , fe l t L o k i’s stomach and could feel a lump the size of a small plum. T h e x- ray s h owe d something unusual in Loki’s stomach and he was rushed to surgery where, to the vet’s surprise, they removed a children’s toy arrow from his stomach. MD of Village Vets Charles Cosgrove told Dublin Gazette that Loki is very lucky the arrow did not cause any internal damage.

November INNOVATION HUB FOR DUN LAOGHAIRE AXED

A FORMER solider from Shankill who was sleeping rough in her car and a tent called on the government for a “helping hand.” 3 4 - y e a r - o l d Te r r i O’Reilly has been homeless for almost two years. She is also suffering with health problems including “severe nerve damage” on her right SPORT side. Doctors have told her she will be bedbound for at least five weeks after an upcom-

A LOOK BACK AT

THE developer behind plans to turn Dun Laoghaire’s former ferry terminal into one of Europe’s largest technology innovation centres pulled the plug on the project. The CEO of the Harbour Innovation Campus, Philip Gannon terminated his lease on the ferry terminal building after discovering that the tenant at the time, the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company, which earlier that month moved under the control of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County

NOVEMBER: LOCAL pup Loki, pictu

surgery saved him when he swall

OUTRAGE AFTER HUGE PLASTIC SPILLAGE

A MASSIVE plastic spillage in Dun Laoghaire caused huge concern and outrage among locals. Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council re ce ive d co m p l a i n t s about the pollution incident at the Forty Foot c o a s t-

DECEMBER: Fr Tony Coote was recognised for his life’s achievements by UCD. (see story)

l i n e a n d S a n d ycove beach area as a result of works by SIAC/Mantovani Group at the council’s Dun Laoghaire Baths redevelopment project. A clean-up team of n io 70 individuals, includit d E South FREE r ing a third-party enviie Ex-sold g in in ronmental firm, was p e sle ds car pleame deployed to clean for a ho the thousands of ‘straw-like’ pieces washed up on the shore.

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3 Janaury 2019 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

YEAR IN REVIEW

SOME OF 2018’S TOP STORIES IN SOUTH DUBLIN

recovered. A week later Des Kennedy’s Centra was targeted by three thugs and the tills were ransacked for cash.

December FIONA NAMED BEST LOLLIPOP PERSON

ured with vet Colm Conlon, had a lucky escape after

OCTOBER: Blackrock Tidy Towns were left “absolutely devastated” after a surge in graffiti.

lowed a 30cm children’s arrow whole. (see story)

(see story)

A LOCAL lollipop lady was “thrilled” to have been crowned Dublin’s Best Lollipop Person. 98FM’s Big Breakfast gave the title to Fiona Ryan from Our Lady of the Wayside School in Kilternan who has been working as a Lollipop lady and keeping the kids safe at the primary school for nearly 20 years. The 53-year-old from Barnacullia told Dublin Gazette she was “thrilled” to have won. PRIEST PRAISED FOR FUNDRAISING

DECEMBER: Local lollipop lady Fiona Ryan was crowned Dublin’s

DECEMBER: There were big celebrations as Rathfarnham’s

Best Lollipop Person. (see story)

beloved actor Desmond Cunningham turned 100 years old.

TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR FORMER CHURCHTOWN PRINCIPAL

TRIBUTES poured in for a charity worker and former principal at a school in Churchtown who was killed in South Africa. Father-of-four-John Curran (60) was fatally stabbed in Cape Town during a robbery in his apartment. South African Police released CCTV images to identify a man they

want to question in relation to the murder. JOY AS ROAD OPENS AFTER A YEAR

A F T E R 3 4 5 d ays o f c l o su re, l o ca l s we re “overjoyed” that Edmondstown Road has reopened. The road was closed in November 2017 after illegal excavation works caused the partial collapse of the road, which caused huge incon-

venience to locals who were forced to take long detours. Campaigned Locals campaigned tirelessly for the reopening of the road, and at the end of August, South Dublin County Council announced that repair works would be carried out on the road as the legal process against the unauthorised excavation was taking longer

THE Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association announced they were now able to hire a fourth nurse because of fundraising efforts by a very special Mount Merrion priest. In March 2018, Fr Tony Coote (54) was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). When Fr Tony received the diagnosis, he decided to walk the length of Ireland, in a Walk While You Can initiative, to raise funds for Irish Motor Neurone Disease Foundation and Research Motor Neurone.

man in his 20s has been arrested in relation to all three burglaries and that the stolen property and cash was also

than expected. STEPASIDE BUSINESSES HIT IN MORNING RAIDS

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KENNY’S WIN BATTLE AGAINST APARTMENTS

PAT KENNY and his wife won a housing battle against plans for multi apartment blocks adjacent to their Dalkey home. The broadcaster is very protective of his family’s privacy and lodged a 16-page objection to Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council against the proposed development. Many of the grounds of refusal echoed many of the concerns raised by the Kennys, including the “height, bulk and scale” of the proposed apartment block would be “visually overbearing” and result in “overshadowing” of the adjoining site, and also would depreciate the value of property around it. LARGEST URBAN DEVELOPMENT IN THE STATE LAUNCHED

THE largest urban development in Ireland was launched in Cherrywood. Construction is LOCALS PROTEST OVER underway to deliver GLENALBYN POOL 1,269 new apartments FIVE years on, beyond at Cherrywood Town fed up locals took to the Centre over the next streets in protest over three years, including the Glenalbyn Pool saga 130 social units. calling Approximately 3,000 construction jobs will be created over the lifen n io io time of the Town Centre it it d d E E South South FREE FREE building project, with l l ia Potent Shankyil e r u il the immediate creation s m lo c fa in e of centrable’ of 300 jobs by John servicuelty ‘deplor dSPifORfT ic Sisk & Son on the first phase of development. ING

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for it to be reopened. The swimming facility was closed in late 2013 for serious public safety issues after an inspection raised concerns over the stability of the roof. Local Area Representative for the Stillorgan, Rosie Ní Laoghaire (SF) was at the well-attended protest outside the pool and said locals are very angry and they want their pool back.

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12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 3 January 2019

LOVE YOUR DUBLIN: THE BREAKDOWN OF SOME OF THE SUMMER’S HOTTEST FESTIVALS

GET OVER THE WINTER BLUES BY LOOKING FORWARD TO SOME SUMMER SUN WITH 2019’S BEST FESTIVALS

DUBLIN MADE EASY W

AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT THIS YEAR’S BEST FESTIVALS

E KNOW what you’re thinking – we’re barely five minutes into the New Year, only just recovering from Christmas – but it’s time to look forward to warmer weather spent surrounded by music, friends and more. Think forward to the Summer, when several festivals and hundreds of music acts will grace the capital and beyond. The sun is shining, you’re out of this cold dreary weather and post-Christmas haze, and everything is calm and relaxing just for a moment! There’s something for everyone this festival season, from the more electronic tones of Forbidden Fruit to the hip-hop edge of Longitude. We’ve picked our best of the festival bunch to give you a look at what festivals we’re most looking forward to, giving you an insight into the line-up and what you can expect at each. Be sure to pick up your tickets for these soon – we’re sure they’ll be sold out!

FORBIDDEN FRUIT WHERE: ROYAL HOSPITAL, KILMAINHAM BULMERS Forbidden Fruit Festival marks the start of the summer festival season., running from June 1-3. The Irish Museum of Modern Art will once again play host to this hotly anticipated three-day festival, which features a line-up for everyone. Friday will be headlined by Skepta and Danny Brown, while Saturday sees Mura Masa take to the stage. The Sunday of the festival will be closed by First Aid Kit and Elbow, catering to all kinds of musical tastes. Tickets are on sale now from Ticketmaster, but be aware that this is a strictly over-18s event.

LONGITUDE WHERE: MARLAY PARK, RATHFARNHAM NOW known as one of the capital’s best festivals, Longitude returns in 2019 with a stellar line-up. Following the hip-hop and R’N’B edge of the last few years, this year’s line up is jam packed with the cream of the crop – Chance The Rapper, A$AP Rocky, Brockhampton, Rae Sremmurd, Amine and Future will all take to various stages across the south side’s Marlay Park This is only the first round of acts, with the second promising to be just as exciting when it drops soon. Running from July 5- 7, weekend tickets are available now from Ticketmaster.

ALL TOGETHER NOW WHERE: CURRAGHMORE ESTATE, WICKLOW FOR anyone looking to escape the capital, Wicklow’s All Together Now is only an hour and a half from Dublin, headlined this year by The National. It will be set across 16 stages, featuring natural amphitheatres, secret woodland stages, and more. The flow of the festival will means the grounds will be easily navigable, intimate but with many quirky gems to enjoy at this 3,000-acre site. Tickets are on sale now priced at €208. The festival is family-friendly, and runs from August 2-4.

3 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

TRAVEL... P18 MUSIC... P20

MAGAZINE

DUBLIN

FEATURE... P14

THANKS, 2018 – IT WAS QUITE A BLAST!

WERE you there? Were you one of the delighted thousands taking in the spectacular New Year’s Eve views by Custom House on Monday night? If not – but even if you were – we’re delighted to share one last, spectacular shot from the thrilling evening. It’s our last action shot from 2018, but don’t worry – we’ll keep bringing you lots of great content all through 2019! Picture: Alison O’Hanlon

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS TAKE YOU ON A TOUR OF THE NEWS AND EVENTS ACROSS THE CITY AND COUNTY

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 3 January 2019

FEATURES RETAIL: NEW CAFFE NERO OUTLET ADDS TO EXPANSION OF DINING SELECTION AT BUSY HUB

Food choices take off at the airport REBECCA RYAN

IF YOU are flying out of Dublin Airport in the near future, you have another food and beverage outlet to choose from to tickle your taste buds as Caffe Nero has just opened in the Arrivals Hall in Terminal 2. The new cafe offers a range of coffee, food and drinks to have in store or to take away. Food options include fresh sandwiches, wraps and rolls as well as sweet treats such as pastries, cakes, muffins, oat bars and fruit. Dublin Airport managing director Vincent Harrison welcomed the new arrival, saying: “Caffe Nero is a great addition to Terminal 2 and is ideally

DAA senior project manager Terminals, Parool Rajput; Emma McCusker, Caffe Nero and DAA programme manager Emmet Murphy

located for arriving passengers and those waiting to welcome friends and family.

“The new outlet is part of an overall revamp of both the land-side and airside areas of Terminal 2.

“We are constantly reviewing and refreshing our food and beverage offering so we are delight-

ed to have this new brand at Dublin Airport.” The design of the new outlet in Dublin Airport

has a lot of interesting features which connects with different parts of Ireland. The bar has been handmade by an Irish company, Wilson’s Yard, while the farmhouse tables in the outlet were all made by a local joinery company, DC Joinery in Lusk. The external wall was hand-painted by local artist Colin O’Connell. The store also features a large graphic of Grattan Bridge, and pictures of Temple Bar and Crow Street in Dublin city centre. Speaking on the Irish tone at the café, Harrison said: “We’re really pleased that the new store has a distinctly Irish feel with its customised decor and design. “I’ve no doubt that Caffe Nero will be popular for

both passengers and airport staff.” The new outlet will employ nine people. The family-owned business operates more than 800 coffee houses across Europe. Its new outlet in Terminal 2 means the chain now has 12 cafes in Dublin and 15 in total across Ireland. The new spot will be welcomed for the busy airport. Dublin Airport welcomed more than 29.2 million passengers in the first 11 months of 2018, which was a 6% increase over the same period in 2017 year. More than 1.8 million extra passengers travelled through the airport between January and November in the year just gone.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU: SET REALISTIC, FAIR GOALS

Resolutions can be great – just don’t go crazy with them PADRAIG CONLON

ANOTHER year is about to end and a lot of people are wondering how to make next year better than the one just gone – and many of us will be making a New Year’s Resolution or two. They will be trying to change old habits, create new ones, work harder, find ‘the one’, spend more time with family, earn more money, quit smoking, lose weight, and focus on other aims that will prob-

ably be forgotten before the first month is over. Most experts say if you set resolutions like this you are setting yourself up for failure. Maybe you don’t really

want to achieve them, but you just feel guilty that you should do them for personal reasons. There is a danger with going down the negative road of lists of ‘shoulds’ that can end up making you feel deprived and unhappy. Instead, ask yourself: “What makes me feel happy and fulfilled; am I living the life I want; what would enrich me and feel rewarding?” This year, why not be unusual and make your New Year’s Resolution a living resolution that

remains a part of your life for longer than January. Why not decide to do voluntary work, or anything that may enrich your life or the lives of other people? Use this New Year as an opportunity to make an impact in the community or environment. Now that it’s January, sit and think about what you want to achieve this year. When you know this, then you can spend some time working out a plan to help you achieve it. Creating something new in your life takes effort and positive action, but if you are truly committed to

Once the New Year celebrations are over, feel happy that you’ve set achievable New Year Resolutions that are genuinely helpful for you personally to aim for

achieving your New Year’s Resolution you will forget about calling it a ‘New Year’s Resolution’! If it’s a living resolution that you are committed to achieving, it won’t fade after January finishes, because it will be a part of your life that doesn’t need a yearly review to survive. Why not look outward instead of inward when

making your declarations? Maybe then you will be able to complete a year feeling satisfied, rather than angry, with yourself. If you want a life that is truly fulfilling in every aspect, it is time to seek out the right answers. Make your New Year’s Resolution a success story – create a life you love.

As final words of encouragement to resolution makers: remember the words of Howard Thurman, African-American philosopher and activist: “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. “Ask yourself what makes you come alive and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

3 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 3 January 2019

FEATURES OPINION: SR STAN ON THE EVER-WORSENING HOMELESS CRISIS, WHICH HITS CHILDREN HARDEST

Thousands of children are still homeless – but you can help to make a difference to a family IN THIS Opinion piece, Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, Life President and founder of Focus Ireland, writes on the ever worsening homeless crisis and its impact on families, as well as the failure to undertake a sufficient response to tackle it. However, she also adds a note of hope, with the support that you can give to Focus Ireland to help it work with families and children in need.

‘‘

C H R I ST M A S is a special time of year for many reasons. It is a time we all think of our home and family. However, as most of us look forward to this time of year, many people dread it, and none more so than the nearly 10,000 people who are homeless. The harsh reality is that one family becomes homeless every eight hours in Ireland. Some individuals also lose their homes every day. I have never seen it so bad. These people live under terrible stress and it’s the children who suffer the most. There are nearly 4,000 children homeless. It really breaks my heart to know that some of these children have been born into homelessness. Some of them will spend their first Christmas with their family, all forced to live in one little room together. They are our children too and we have a duty as a society to provide a safe home for them. We have a duty to protect the childhoods of these children and to make sure they do not suffer from being homeless for long periods of time. Focus Ireland’s Family Team work hard to support families in this situation, in partnership with the

Dublin Region Homeless Executive, and the support includes specific childcare workers. Each family has a case manager who assesses their needs, provides support and works towards helping them to secure a home. In recent months, the Focus Ireland coffee shop on Eustace Street in Dublin city took the step of extending its opening hours until 9pm so that families can have somewhere to be and somewhere for their children to play, as they face the stressful scramble of finding a hotel room for the night. Lifeline services While the crisis is still deepening – with a record total of nearly 10,000 people now homeless – the situation would be much worse without the lifeline services and more than 1,100 homes provided by Focus Ireland. It is heartening to hear that we have supported well over 350 families to secure a home and escape homelessness so far this year. We rely heavily on donations from the public to ensure we are able to carry out the full extent of this life-changing work. While Focus Ireland does receive State funding, we have to raise 50%

Putting a human face on an emergency – Sr Stan with Karen Ciesielski and her son, Lugh, at the launch of Focus Ireland’s urgent Christmas appeal. Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland.

of our budget to ensure our frontline staff are always able to be there when people need help. Focus Ireland has been running an urgent Christmas appeal with a hardhitting campaign that highlights nearly 4,000 children are homeless nationwide. We really do depend on donations, now more than ever, to raise funds so our services can cope with the constantly rising demand. I am asking people to please give what they can afford to support our urgent Christmas appeal. Any donation will help us to directly support these families and also help fund our work to pre-

vent other families and individuals from becoming homeless in the first place. People can donate at www.focusireland.ie or by phoning 1850 204 205. One family who are homeless and living in hotel emergency accommodation feature in our Christmas appeal. The mother, Fiona, wrote in a letter about how the family are struggling but Focus Ireland’s help has made a big difference. She said: “We have our case manager from Focus Ireland and I don’t think we could have coped with it all without her and Focus Ireland. They help us a lot.”

She added: “Sometimes, I lie awake at night and I can’t cope. I can’t believe we are still in this situation. “But I know I can talk to our case manager at any time for a shoulder to cry on. My children love all the Focus Ireland staff. They almost feel like family now.” To me, this shows the real value of our work. Our staff are there to help people in their darkest hour. To keep them going. To provide vital support and also hope. To remind them this will pass. They will find a way home. I would stress that every euro donated counts in the battle against homeless-

ness, as 89 cent of every euro received by Focus Ireland goes directly on services to support people who are homeless and those at risk. The right decisions It is vital our society does not lose sight of the fact that homelessness can be prevented – and ended – if the right decisions are taken. We need more homes to end this crisis, not more hotel rooms. The Government appears to be just accepting this as a natural phenomenon it can do nothing about. But, in fact, it can take several meaningful steps to make people more

secure in their homes. Much more can – and must – be done if we are to end this terrible human crisis and protect the childhoods of nearly 4,000 children left homeless. We also need a massive rise in the numbers of social homes being built. The Government must also implement a specific family homelessness strategy that includes a commitment that no family will be left without shelter and a cast-iron deadline that no family will be homeless for more than six months. This needs to be done now. We cannot wait any longer.

3 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

One of ‘Ava’s’ pics from her @avavanroseofficial account

PEOPLE | DUB ON HIT SHOW

Nothing that’s Botched about ‘Ava’s’ rise to the top on TV

REBECCA RYAN

A DUBLIN glamour model has revealed her goal is to be “the most memorable Irish celebrity possible” as she appeared on a hit US cosmetic surgery show, Botched. Ava Van Rose (28), whose real name is Bridget Byrne, features in the show where doctors Paul Paul Nassif and Terry Dubrow treat patients with extreme surgery requirements, or correct former surgery mistakes. Ava Van Rose told the medical duo that she wants another breast e n l a rge m e n t a s s h e “wants to go larger”, despite telling them that the skin is so stretched that it is starting to ripple. She told the surgeons that she has had two breast jobs, two buttock augmentations, liposuction on her stomach and back and a procedure on her vagina. She said: “It’s a big deal for my body to look on point, because I take pictures. I still want to go

larger – that’s my dream goal. “I don’t want to look like a mom; I don’t want to look like I’ve had a baby; I don’t find ‘the mom bod’ attractive. “I’m not frumpy – I’m fit and fabulous, and that’s the way it’s going to stay,” she said. The Clondalkin native added: “I went to [the] Czech Republic and I had liposuction to my stomach, liposuction to my back and my ass redone as well. I had them over the space of a year.” Her goal, she said, is to be the most memorable Irish celebrity possible as she does not want to look “average”. Ava Van Rose said she was contacted by the producers last year to appear on the TV show. The reality TV star personality, who has more than 150,000 Instagram followers, has also previously starred in another reality show, Infectious. Botched is available to watch now on E! and ITVBe.

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 3 January 2019

TRAVEL COMMERCIAL CONTENT

‘Plan your next Escape’ with GoHop

IRISH holiday firm GoHop.ie has just launched their 2019 summer holiday sale, entitled Plan your next Escape. Booking early is key to securing the best possible value and availability, particularly for families with school-going children who are tied to the peak season dates of June, July and August. GoHop.ie all-inclusive packages continue to prove a popular option for many families as they make overseas spend a lot easier to plan. European sun holiday destinations that are sure to prove popular in 2019 include The Algarve, Lanzarote, Majorca, Salou, Costa del Sol, Italy and Turkey. A good choice of short-haul flights from all Irish airports and a wide selection of good-value accommodation are still proving to be the key factors in most holiday consumers’ decision-making processes. Consumers whose main consideration is price have nothing to fear – GoHop.ie has a wide range of tempting lead in offers to satisfy the early bookers including exclusive sale offers and great family deals. Regardless of your budget, there’s no excuse not to ‘Plan your next Escape’ and book that well-earned 2019 summer holiday now. But be warned, early booking is the key to securing the best possible value. GoHop.ie is now considered one of the most popular holiday websites in Ireland. Irish-owned and managed, the brand continues to broaden its appeal to holiday consumers, offering great value holidays to suit every budget at some of the best prices on the market, operating flights from Dublin, Cork, Shannon and Knock airports. The company boasts more than 45,000 followers on Facebook and enjoys a Feefo rating of 4.75. Consumers can also sign up to the GoHop weekly newsletter for unbeatable worldwide holiday deals and exciting product updates. For further information, see GoHop.ie, or call 01 241 2389; on Facebook see GoHop. ie; on Twitter follow @GoHop_ie.

Wonderful long

SYLVIA POWNALL

Travel Editor THE travel industry is on the crest of a wave right now with a whole heap of far-flung destinations emerging as hot trends for 2019. Dublin Airport has introduced a number of longhaul services with direct flights to Calgary in Canada and a number of Asian cities. Ryanair has also introduced 15 new routes, nine of them from Dublin, including Dubrovnik and Split on the stunning coastline of Croatia. The hotspots are too many to explore here but they include Sri Lanka,

Croatia, China, Dominican Republic, Japan, Vietnam and New Zealand. According to industry experts, most travellers are now seeking a bit more than sun, sea and sand and active, solo and retreat holidays are all on the increase. Here are some of our favourites for 2019 ... South Africa Enjoy a South African road trip, for 12 nights this May/June, from €1,695pp including car rental. Spice up your summer and uncover one of the most stunning corners of the world with this offer from Travalue.ie. This trip is the perfect

way to uncover all the beauty, cuisine and landscape that South Africa has to offer. Your journey will begin in Cape Town, home to jaw-dropping scenery, a stunning coastline and sandy beaches. Travel down to the Cape of Good Hope or venture by cable car to the top of Table Mountain. Or stay local around the harbour area and take the boat to Robin Island where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated. After two nights in the idyllic Winelands, you will move along to the Garden Route and spend four nights marvelling at the outstanding beauty lit-

tered across the area. The trip concludes with a spell-binding safari with two nights on a full board basis in Eastern Cape Safari Addo Elephant National Park, with game drives included. Price includes all accommodation and nine days’ car rental. For more information on this offer from Travalue.ie, see: http://itaa. ie/2018/12/12/south-africa-6/ America’s Deep South Have you dreamt of visiting the vibrant Deep South? American Holidays have released fantastic offers that can turn your dream into reality, from

€1,218pp. The southern United States are unlike anywhere else you will ever go. Hot weather, warm smiles, rich history, and arguably, some of the best food in the US – not to mention being a mecca for music lovers. Fro m t h e Na s hv i l l e home of Country music, to the Blues, Soul and Rock ‘n’ Roll of Memphis and the Jazz of New Orleans – you will hear it all. You can combine up to three destinations on multi-centre trips or choose an escorted holiday – the choice is yours. For the following three offers, call American Holidays to book on 01 673

3 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

haul

Some of Travel’s main trends to look for in 2019

Make 2019 the year you branch out and avail of great deals for stunning places

THE luxury travel market is booming – but the sun is also shining for other segments of the industry. Here are some of the main trends for 2019. Solo Travel Whether it’s for the sense of adventure and new experiences, to make new friends or simply for the freedom of planning what to do and where to go, solo travel is on the rise. In Ireland and the UK, the number of people travelling alone has increased by a third since 2011 – and the trend is set to continue. Green Travel The biggest issue in travel next year will undoubtedly be the impact of over-tourism. As widespread concern for the environment increases in everyday life, so does the window of opportunity for sustainable travel, and the options are quite varied. Searches for wildlife refuges and natural areas outside big cities is increasing, and so is the interest for “hidden” tourism in regional communities and local farms to discover organic products (Leitrim is ahead of the field on this one).

Here are just three of the unforgettable long haul destinations you could strike out for this year – Seattle and Mount Rainier (main), Torres del Paine (top) and Victoria (above)

3804, drop into their office at 18- 19 Duke Street (just off Grafton Street), or visit www. americanholidays.com. Nashville & Memphis Spend four nights at the three-star Clarion Downtown Nashville, followed by three nights at the three-star Comfort Inn Downtown Memphis, from only €1,289pp. Price includes return f lights from Dublin, seven nights’ accommodation, one day compact car hire, taxes and charges. Based on two adults s h a r i n g ; t rave l t h i s March, American Holidays ref no: 51458553.

New Orleans, Memphis & Nashville Spend three nights at the three-star Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter, two nights at the Comfort Inn Downtown Memphis, followed by three nights at the three-star Millennium Maxwell House Hotel Nashville, from only €1,218pp. Travel this February, American Holidays ref no: 51451764. Tastes and Sounds of the South Take this escorted tour from €3,159pp; the nine-night tour will take you to Nashville, Memphis, Natchez and

New Orleans, with dates available from March to November. The price includes return flights, accommodation, nine full breakfasts, five dinners, luxury transport, a professional tour guide and transfers. American Holidays ref no: 51351243. Amazing Alaska Cruise Explore the truly stunning Alaskan scenery on this fantastic cruise holiday, including Seattle from €3,499, taking in visits to Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay and Ketchikan, as well as a stop in the Canadian city of Victoria on the return journey.

Relax on board the stunning Norwegian Pearl as you sail past majestic mountains, glistening glaciers and, if you’re lucky, some of the incredible wildlife that calls Alaska home. With a two-night stay before the cruise in Seattle, including a city tour, you’ll have time to visit some of the city’s many museums, shops and restaurants, see its bustling waterfront, the historic Pioneer Square and, of course, the iconic Space Needle. On board, the Norwegian Pearl features include hot tubs, a pool, casino, a spa and much more.

Optional excursions at ports of call are also available to book in advance or on board the ship. Prices start from €3,499 including return f lights from Dublin, transfers, pre and postcruise B&B hotel accommodation in Seattle, seven-night all-inclusive cruise with Ultimate Beverage Package and guided Seattle city tour, departing September 6. For details, see www. traveldepartment.ie. All prices and details correct at time of going to press; check with individual travel operators per deal.

Transformational Travel More than ticking boxes in traditional locations, modern travellers look for new experiences – and this includes meaningful, personal development and deeper connection with culture and nature. It’s a bit more serious-minded than just yoga retreats. A complete transformative trip usually combines a mix of physical, cultural and spiritual experiences – and, of course, plenty of time for personal reflection and meditation. Interest for the segment has been growing in the past couple of years, and the movement is set to continue. Cruises for Millennials Once synonymous with holidays for older generations, cruising is now finally reaching the millennial market. For many, it’s an opportunity to discover new experiences and visit different places with friends, while others like the idea of travelling solo while still being part of a community. The cost is also a factor: for a generation that’s constantly worried about prices, an all-inclusive trip with accommodation, entertainment and nightlife sounds like a no-brainer. Some companies already realised the increased demand and developed packages with good value for millennials, but this new market can be explored further.

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 3 January 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

GET TUNED IN

THE ONES TO WATCH OUT FOR IN THE COMING YEAR

The Irish acts set to breakthrough in 2019

2018 was another great year for Irish music, but there’s plenty more of talent just about to emerge from the bars and backrooms of a Dublin music scene recently shown to have more shows than its far larger compatriots in Birmingham and Manchester, and make their own attempts to conquer one of the toughest industries out there. It’s always hard to call who might succeed in the next cycle, but some contenders stand out above the crowd. Here are our top tips to make a bang in 2019... Silverbacks A boisterous Dublin rock band who have already found themselves highlighted by NME as they take a brutal stab at the country’s social problems in a complex whirl of guitars. The Irish rock scene has had a hell of a 2018, and Silverbacks are about to add their name more firmly to the list of bands emerging from this city recently, purveying wonderfully abrupt, jagged guitar melodies. A natural accompaniment to Girl Band, Fontaines D.C and The Murder Capital. CARRON Tw o s i s t e r s f r o m Ranelagh singing heartfelt melodies strung together through turmoil and some truly stunning harmonies. Carron’s career has been stop-start so far, but with a studio now set up at home to help them along, and live shows become a more frequent thing, they look all set to lift off in 2019. It’s those twisting dual vocals and the delicate depth to the songwriting that really stand out here. Rocstrong Andre JP Banagla’s act Rocstrong had a flying start to their career, after they were picked up by the Coen Brothers to fea-

ture on the soundtrack to the movie ‘Hail Caesar’. Unsurprisingly, progress

 JAMES HENDICOTT

has been a little slower since, but the Congo-born Dubliner’s funk has taken on a new dimension recently that lifts him far beyond the role of good time guy. He gets deeply and profoundly personal in exploring his upbringing on newly released EP ‘All On Black’, easily his best moment yet. Spies Another stonking guitar band, Spies disappeared from our radar for quite some time after forming way back in 2011. They already had three great early EPs, but the break - spent in part sitting on a newly recorded album and contemplating whether they wanted to run with it - has done them the world of good. Debut album ‘Constancy’ is a huge contender for the Choice Music Prize next year, featuring a newfound electronic twist and some slow-burn self-analysis alongside their previous thrashing

guitars. Topso Reggae is not a genre you’d immediately associate with Ireland, but for a long time, The Barley Mob did an excellent job of holding up a tiny rootsy scene in their own right. They all but disappeared in 2014, though, as band members faced different lives. Frontman Adam Daly was always the Kildare act’s star man, and he announced a return in late 2018, revealing some serious mental health issues and, thankfully, a full recovery along the way. His previous band always wore their hearts charmingly close to their sleeves; his new one is likely to be just as good. Zaska One of those men who’s been known on the scene for quite some time, Max Zaska has collaborated with anyone who’s anyone in Dublin in the creation of his debut album, set for release in February. If the participation of BARQ, Wyvern Lingo, Little Green Cars, Super Silly and Loah aren’t a sure sign of the quality that’s about to emerge, his distinctive playing style and vibrant approach to crafting a deeply personalised sound should do the job. Huge, huge potential.

Silverbacks

Carron

Rocstrong

Spies

Zaska

3 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

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MOTORS

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT

Opel Grandland X – an Xceptional SUV

New Audi Q3 officially launched

DECLAN GLYNN

AUDI Ireland has

THE Opel Grandland X SUV is based on the same platform as the multi award-winning Peugeot 3008 SUV. Thanks to Opel’s recent takeover by the PSA Group (Peugeot’s parent company) the Grandland X shares many parts with the French SUV, and comes with a similar range of engines and gearboxes. Powerful & Elegant Stance Modern, dynamic lines, and a cool off-road look with elevated seating position give the new Opel Grandland X a powerful and elegant stance on the open-road. With good all-round visibility, along with cuttingedge technology and plenty of space and comfort for up to five passengers – this is Opel at its best. The new Grandland X side views echo the attractive combination of rugged SUV appeal and elegant lines. Muscular, sculpted wheel arches and protective cladding on the lower body give the Grandland X real beauty and genuine off-road appeal. In contrast, clear lines and the refined blade on the lower doors identify the new Grandland X as a member of the Opel family. Optional two-tone finish with the roof in contrasting black adds an extra touch of personalisation. Its smooth flow into the rest of the body is emphasised by the ‘breakthrough’ C pillar, which also creates a dynamic bond to the rear. The rear view of the Grandland X possesses real SUV character thanks to a wide stance, silver

under-ride protection (with integrated tailpipes on the left and right), protective cladding and slim LED tail-lights.

Excellent Interior Ergonomics The cabin of the new Grandland X is equally as impressive as the exterior thanks to clever use of space and excellent ergonomics. The instrument panel and centre stack with touchscreen are clearly laid out and horizontally aligned to the driver. The centre stack has three horizontal rows of controls for fast and intuitive access to infotainment, climate control and chassis functions. The interior surfaces have a high-quality look and feel, providing the occupants with a feeling of supreme comfort in all seats. They benefit from the SUV-typical elevated seating position that facilitates access and ensures good visibility. The optional panoramic glass sunroof floods the interior with light and provides excellent skyward visibility. Typical first-class Opel comfort is ensured by the AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs) certified ergonomic seats as well as a heated steering wheel and seat heating front and rear, which is standard on Elite and Ultimate models. Specification Levels, Engines & Transmissions Four trim levels are available in the new Grandland X – SC, SRi, Elite and Ultimate, while engine options consist of a 1.2-litre turbo-charged petrol with 130PS, a 1.6litre turbo-diesel with 130PS and a 2.0-litre tur-

announced the launch of the all-new Audi Q3. A second-generation model, the new Audi Q3 is a family SUV, which boasts unparalleled style, versatility and space for enhanced comfort. The SUV earned the top score of five stars in the Euro NCAP safety test. The new Audi Q3 starts at an on-theroad price of €39,600 and is available to order now. The new Audi Q3 is built with safety in mind. The family SUV comes with a number of active safety systems as standard and received five stars in the Euro NCAP safety test. Audi pre-sense basic and Audi pre-sense

bo-diesel with 177PS. Transmission options consist of a slick six-speed manual or a smooth eightspeed automatic. Test Car ON test this week was a Grandland X Ultimate 2.0litre turbo-diesel, eightspeed automatic, finished in stunning Quartz Grey metallic paint. With 400Nm of torque available from this fourcylinder engine, the 0-100km/h sprint can be completed in just 9.5-seconds while leading to a top speed of 211km/h (where permitted). Opel claim fuel consumption as low as 4.6l/100km is possible on an extra-urban driving cycle. Standard specification across the entire Opel Grandland X range is impressive, with the range-topping ‘Ultimate’ model equipped with Navi 5.0 IntelliLink sat-

ellite navigation with fully integrated European satellite navigation, an 8-inch colour touchscreen, Smartphone projection with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth audio streaming and mobile phone portal, ‘Denon’ Premium Sound System, 19” alloy wheels. Also electric wing mirrors with puddle lights, auto wipers, auto lights with high beam assist, front fog lights, power tailgate, black roof and door mirrors, rear privacy glass, chrome side window trim, cruise control with speed limiter, dual zone electronic climate control, 60/40 split folding

rear seats, flex floor, lane departure warning, speed sign recognition, traffic sign recognition camera. As well as LED daytime running lights, Premium LED Adaptive Forward Lighting Pack, emergency braking system, hill start assist, ESP with traction control, side blind spot alert, parking sensors front and rear, leather seat trim, internal front seat cooling fans, heated front & outer rear seats and a heated steering wheel. All trim levels come with Opel’s excellent OnStar concierge package, which can help you get to your destination, or call the emergency ser-

FACT BOX

1) Stunning, Family-Sized SUV 2) Four Specification Levels 3) Petrol or Diesel Engines 4) Manual or Automatic 5) Priced From €28,395 (ex-works)

vices in the event of an accident. On The Road DRIVING the new Opel Grandland X is a real pleasure, with the car providing a soft and composed ride quality, while the precise steering is well weighted and confidence inspiring. Uneven road surfaces are tackled with ease, and the car exudes an overall feeling of solidity – in true German fashion. Pricing EX-WORKS prices for the new Opel Grandland X start at just €28,395, while the range-topping ‘Ultimate’ model is priced from €41,595. I was extremely impressed by the new Opel Grandland X, and I think you will be too. Now is the time to recapture the magic of driving with the Opel Grandland X. It offers a true ‘German SUV feeling for everyone’.

front, for example, provide the driver with a visual, audible and haptic warning when critical situations involving pedestrians, cyclists or other vehicles are detected. Also included as standard equipment is Audi side assist, which warns of hazards when changing lanes, as well as Audi active lane assist which helps ensure the SUV remains safely in its lane. If required, the car can even deploy automatic emergency braking. The new Audi Q3 is available in both petrol and diesel units - in combination with either front-wheel or Quattro (4WD) drive. Progressive steering comes as standard. Visit your local Audi dealer today for further information on the all-new Audi Q3 or visit www.audi.ie

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26 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 3 January 2019

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

REVIEW OF 2018: LOOKING BACK: THE year gone by was a spectacular one across the board with world level medals across a range of sports - from hockey to pentathlon to para swimming and para athletics and beyond. The men’s and women’s county footballers also shone, making for a sparkling 12 months to be involved in Dublin sport.



GAZETTE

3 January 2019 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

PAGE 28-31

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS CURLING | OLYMPIC SPORT AIM TO EXPAND FURTHER IN IRELAND

Sliding stones exhibition set for Tallaght  sport@dublingazette.com

THE IRISH curling association are using their January trip to Tallaght Stadium to demonstrate their sport as a dual opportunity, hoping to extol the possibilities of a first Irish curling rink to potential business investors as well as promote the sport itself. There is no permanent ice rink in the Republic, though quite a few pop up over the winter season. Those temporary spots give the surprisingly wide array of ice hockey teams – who usually play in Belfast – the chance to compete on home ‘turf’. Curling requires a smaller area of ice, however, and the Irish association, largely based in Scotland, see an opportunity to learn from the successful Scottish model. Across the water, the sport is far bigger, and there are a number of privately owned rinks.

They do not cost a vast amount to set up, and are often run as part small private entreprises, even in locations like barns. With the world governing body working hard on expansion, advice and financial support are both possibilities for early adopters in Ireland. “It doesn’t need to be a big deal,” Irish curler David Whyte, a senior European medalist, told the Dublin Gazette. “Some of the smaller rinks really wouldn’t be expensive to set up. We’d love to talk with anyone who’d be interested in doing something in Ireland, as it’s a huge opportunity for someone, we think, and for the sport.” The World Curling Federation are currently working hard on expanding the sport – which involves sliding rocks down a rink at a target – into a greater international market. As part of the process, they’ll be

James Russell in action for Ireland at the 2018 World Mixed Curling Championships. Picture: Jeffrey Au/WCF

holding events for both children (through schools) and interested parties on the temporary ice skating rink at Tallaght Stadium on January 16 and 17, including demonstrations by guest Olympians. “People get quite excited when they see the pros, and see what’s possible,” Whyte says of the game,

which is popular in Canada in particular, and traditionally gets a huge boost on the back of Winter Olympic coverage. “It has elements of chess and golf. It’s for people who like a combination of a team sport with some exercise, a physical challenge and some strategy.”

SPORT CONTACT INFO SPORTS EDITOR: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@dublingazette.com Phone: 01 601 0240

GAZETTE

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 3 January 2019

SPORT2018

REVIEW OF THE YEAR

LOOKING BACK: JANUARY TO JUNE

Sparkling success on southside of the city January “THIS is all I wanted and everything I dreamed of,” said an overcome Black Amber Templeogue star, Lawrence “Puff” Summers as his side were crowned Hula Hoops National Cup champions with a 68-62 point win over UCD Marian at the National Basketball Arena. “I lost a final with Kilkenny here four years ago,” he continued, “and I have a photo of my daughter crying because Daddy lost. I can’t wait to go home and put this medal around her.”

February BLACKROCK AC’S Sarah Healy provided the performance of the Irish Life Health National Indoor Championships when she smashed both the Irish Under-20 and Youth 3,000m records, starting off a spectacular year. It was the teenager – who has just turned 17 – win her first national senior title in 9.10.43 at the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena in Abbotstown. Healy was simply outstanding as she left Rio 2016 Olympian Kerry

O’Flaherty (Newcastle) firmly in her wake. A rare talent was on display and the Blackrock teenager surpassed the Under-20 record of 9.28.67, previously held by Rose Anne Galligan, and the Youth record of 9.35.1 of Amy Rose Farrell. Ireland’s most successful ever badminton player Scott Evans announced his retirement from the sport after 15 years as a professional. The Dundrum native made history in 2008 when he became the first Irishman to compete in badminton at the Olympic Games in Beijing. In 2016 as he became the first Irish player to win a match at the Games, progressing through two rounds before finishing ninth overall. Goatstown’s Gregor McGuckin launched ambitious plans to be the first Irish native to sail solo and non-stop around the world. McGuckin was not making his life easy, either: the contest was a recreation of an infamous nonstop, solo race that took place in 1968. It goes so far as to use yachts dating back to the era, ban electronic navigation (the competitors will rely on a

compass and the sun and moon), and even prohibit communication that wasn’t available 50 years ago. Instead of an MP3 player and Kindle, McGuckin – and the rest of the competitors – will carry a haul of books and cassette tapes. His journey started in June and ultimately ended with his boat being dismasted leading to his rescue in the Indian Ocean but not before some heroic sailing.

March DUBLINERS abounded in the heroic Irish rugby team that swept to just a third grand slam victory on St Patrick’s Day as they raided Twickenham to add the silverware to the Six Nations title that was already in the bank. St Mary’s College graduate Johnny Sexton provided the tournament’s iconic moment in game one when he landed the crucial drop goal deep into injury time to secure victory over France. Ecstatic Dalkey Club Cuala took the All Ireland Club Hurling Title for the second consecutive year, after a late-late show saw

UCD Marian coach Ioannis Liapakis is raised aloft after the national basketball victory. Picture: Martin Doherty

St Andrew’s College student keeps her

Jody Hosking hit the winning goal

eye on a catch for the Irish cricket team

for Three Rock Rovers in the EY

againats New Zealand. Picture: Seb Daly/

Hockey League final. Picture: Adrian

Sportsfile

Boehm

Cuala supporter Ethan

The Ballybrack Bulls celebrate their Irish wheelchair basketball national cup

Wesley College toast their

success. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Cup in Donnybrook

off the phenomenal challenge Limerick’s Na Piarsaigh. Cuala twice saved themselves in the dying seconds the first time around on St Patrick’s Day, in a contest that truly looked lost at the end of normal time. A deflected free from Sean Moran nestled in the back of the Limerick club’s net to force extra time that day, and David Treacy snatched a replay with a final second point at the death. It was two second half Cuala goals that had looked key this time around. Instead, Na Piar-

saigh briefly pulled themselves back in front of the holders with two minutes to go, but Cuala held their nerve. UCD Marian also stayed composed to take the Irish Superleague Basketball title in a playoff by the narrowest of margins on St Patrick’s Day, topping the table for the first time in forty years. Marian over turned rivals Pyrobel Killester by a single point, after Killester had leveled the score with 12 seconds left on the clock. The pair had proved inseparable over the course of the normal

league season, having both lost five of their 22 games, resulting in a rare onetime play-off to decide the champions. Conor Meany’s father Paul was part of the team that won the title back in 1978 and followed in his father’s footsteps. Conor starred at point guard and said after the game: “I don’t know what to say really. That was a great game, either team could have won it.”

April UCD powered to the EY

Hockey League title in typically emphatic style, leaving nothing to chance with a thunderous 7-1 win at Ards. It was a 15th win from their last 16 in the league and they have just one loss all season to date on the opening day of the season against second placed Cork Harlequins, their only loss in two regular league seasons. Stephen McAfee continued his rapid rise up the pro boxing ranks with a split-decision win over Cork’s Colin O’Donovan in Drimnagh. The Sallynoggin man

3 January 2019 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

‘‘

QUOTABLE

QUOTES

Goatstown man Gregor McGuckin set his sights on an ambitious around the world sailing challenge

“Those involved went above and beyond to do things no one expected of them and achieved things most said they couldn’t.” - Olympian Ronan Gormley reflects on his Irish hockey career, encompassing 256 caps and 121 as captain.

Smith shows his club colours as the Dalkey side won the All-Ireland hurling club title. Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

Sarah Healy crosses the line to win the national indoor 3,000m title. Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

win in the Vinne Murray

outpointed O’Donovan over eight rounds, the pair having battled to a blood-soaked draw over six rounds back in September, to claim the BUI Celtic 130lb title. The second fight more than lived up to its billing, with many commentators dubbing it the fight of the year so far. The end of a long hard winter of distance running ended in sunny Raheny at the National Road Relays with Dundrum South Dublin women and men’s races ending in glory. They took gold in the women’s race and silver in the men’s competition at

- Dublin ladies football boss Mick Bohan

UCD - the Collingwood Cup champions. Picture: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

an event where all of the top clubs in the country were present for this seasonal finale.

May THREE Rock Rovers completed a truly remarkable season when Jody Hosking scored 48 seconds from full-time for the Rathfarnham club in the EY Champions Trophy final at Grange Road. The captain followed up Harry Morris’s effort that bounced invitingly off the post to earn a 2-1 win over Glenanne to clinch the national championship. It added a dramatic

finale to the best season in the club’s history and, perhaps, the outstanding performance from any club side in Irish hockey’s 125-year annals. Prior to the weekend, they already had the Irish Senior Cup and National Indoor Trophy in the cabinet as well as the EuroHockey Indoor Challenge II gold from February in Georgia. With the regional Neville Cup and Mills Cup crowns also secured, it has been a remarkable campaign on all fronts. De La Salle Churchtown were honoured as the Badminton Ireland School of the Year follow-

ing an exceptional year in their long history in the sport. A 2-0 win over Dunboyne was enough to ensure UCD remain an LSL Sunday Senior 1 side as one of the most competitive seasons on record came to a close. B r o a d f o r d R ove r s unveiled the FAI’s new quality symbol for amateur clubs, the Club Mark, as well as exciting new plans for improvements in the club’s facilities.

June MONKSTOWN powerlifter Ryan Daly saw the

“For anyone trying to promote women’s sport, it was brave, honest, relentless. The rules went out of the window and rightly so.”

UCD hockey club’s Bethany Barr, Lena Tice and Leah McGuire see their reflection in the Irish Senior Cup. Picture: Piaras O O’Midheach/Sportsfile

benefits of a 20 kilo drop in weight as he took home a world championship medal in Malta. Daly made the decision to make a drastic weight cut from 100kg – in which he was already world champ – to 82kg earlier this year. And the former boxer, who only took up the sport two years ago, saw his hard work pay off as he was crowned junior champion in his new

weight class. Park Celtic marked their return to the Leinster Senior League with promotion from Sunday Premier 1 at the first attempt. The Cabinteely side finished second behind Blanch side Corduff, five points behind the league winners but good enough to earn a spot in Sunday Premier for the following season.

“Because Crokes had been in so many finals, you kind of thought this will come again. I didn’t think I’d be waiting five or six years!” - Paul Mannion on Dublin SFC victory with Kilmacud

GAZETTE

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 3 January 2019

SPORT2018

REVIEW OF THE YEAR

LOOKING BACK: JULY TO DECEMBER

County stars paint Croker blue on the double again July MICHAEL and Stephen Finlan (Grange Castle/ Castle) won the 2018 All Ireland Father and Son, sponsored by Dawson Jewellers, at Castle Golf Club for the fourth time. Michael is now a fivetime winner as he also won in 1979 with his father Ben. 2018’s competition saw almost 450 golfers representing nearly 100 different golf clubs participated in the qualifying rounds of this prestigious tournament. Kilmacud Crokes Ryan O’Dwyer called time on his intercounty hurling career after representing both his native Tipperary and his adopted Dubs in senior championship action. O’Dwyer was part of Dublin’s most recent glory days when winning a NHL1 title in 2011 and a Leinster SHC in 2013, ending 72 and 52 year famines respectively. Looking back on his varied career, he said of his retirement: “I have decided to call it a day on my inter-county career. It was a privilege and an amazing journey with many peaks and valleys along the way. Sarah Healy produced the star performances

of European Athletics Under-18s in Gyor, Hungary, breaking two championship records on the way to two dominant performances in the 1,500m and 3,000m. Monkstown Boxing Club hosted what has become the biggest boxing tournament in the world with an incredible 840 boxers weighing in at Loughlinstown Leisure Centre to take part in the Monkstown International Box Cup.

August SCOTT Orwell Wheelers’ Lara Gillespie produced two exceptional performances to land gold and silver at the European Junior Track Championship in Aigle, Switzerland, coming out on top in the points race. The 17-year-old student from Wesley College has been in sensational form for some time and had earlier taken the silver medal in the individual pursuit event. Gillespie adds the two European Junior medals to an Irish road race championships victory last month, 11 national titles spread across track, road and cyclocross, and four gold medals from the Irish Junior

Championships last year. She also took a European Youth Olympics silver medal last summer, a collection marking her as a serious Irish cycling prospect. It was the month the Irish women’s team burst into the public imagination with 10 Dubliners helping the side land a World Cup silver medal. Among them, Rathfarnham hockey star Nicci Daly says she enjoyed “the highest of highs” in a two-week spell as she got to fulfil her lifelong dream at Mondello Park and follow in her father Vivion’s tyre tracks. Alongside childhood friend Emma Dempsey, their Formula Female team made its debut as part of the Co Kildare track’s 50th anniversary in the Future Classics class. For the Hockey World Cup silver medalist, it was a special chance to honour her father, one of Ireland’s most successful racers, who sadly passed away from cancer in 2002.

September DOUBLE delight for Dublin as both the men and women’s senior foot-

Kilmacud Crokes’ Paul Mannion starred in the Dublin SFC final against St Jude’s. Picture: Niall O’Connell

Lara Gillespie raises the tricolor following her points race European

Georgia Drummy representing

youth gold. Picture: Union Europeene de

Ireland at the Youth Olympics in

Cyclisme

Argentina. Picture: Eoin Noonan/Sportsfile

Dublin’s ladies footballers

Stephen and Michael Finlan lift the Castle Nicci Daly with fellow hockey World Cup silver medalists following

Golf Club Father and Son trophy.

her motor-racing track debut with the Formula Female team

Picture: Pat Cashman

ballers both claimed AllIreland glory. Ecstatic Jackies’ boss Mick Bohan said it was extra special to beat Cork, their nemesis in recent years: “We couldn’t make it out to be more than a game with this group beforehand but I think everyone knew it was,” Bohan said. “That wasn’t shying away from it. If we had built it up in the camp, it could have become an immovable beast, and we didn’t want that. “We’ve been building for this for eighteen months. When we came in, we felt Cork were the standard bearers and we felt, for us to take

the crown, we would have had to take them out. That’s with massive respect, they brought the game to that level, and we’ve set a standard by it.” For the men’s side, it was a fourth successive victory. It was a proud week for Leicester Celtic when three former schoolboy players were named in the Ireland Under-17 squad for the friendly double-header with Turkey. Gavin Bazunu started both games and Zak Delaney played once, while Zak Funge was also involved as Ireland comfortably won both

games at Tallaght Stadium. UCD returned to the Premier Division for the first time in four years as champions following a tense 1-1 draw with Finn Harps in their penultimate league game of the season. The visitors needed no less than a win to force the title race down to the final weekend and they looked to have managed it when Cowan broke the deadlock from a corner. College, who knew a point would be enough to seal the title, played within themselves and showed little of the fluid, attacking play that lit up the second tier this sea-

son. Naomh Olaf’s ladies footballers capped a good season’s football by overcoming a strong Crumlin side in the New Ireland Assurance Junior C Shield Final in Páirc Uí Bhriain. Ballinteer St John’s hurlers are celebrating an extraordinary season in which they’ve taken a double promotion. They rise from both AHL2 and AHL5, pushing the club’s combined Dublin hurling league status to the highest point in its history. The senior side at St John’s are traditionally a top-tier threat, having been in AHL1 for six of

3 January 2019 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

‘‘

QUOTES OF

THE YEAR

Eoin Murchan is raised aloft with Sam Maguire. Picture: James Crombie/Inpho

“From the first day I saw him, Gavin was just astonishing. I was telling my friends and family about this kid ‘just wait until you see him’” - Leicester Celtic coach Mick O’Brien on teenager Gavin Bazunu who earned a move to Manchester City

celebrate their All-Ireland senior success in Croke Park. Picture: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

“What a weekend, what a month, what a story! From World Cup silver to racing a car in my dad’s honour! It has been the highest of highs.”

- Nicci Daly on Kieran ‘Marty’ Waters was again

Aedin Murray and Sinead Goldrick thrilled at their

Blackrock College Under-10s showed their skills against Cork Con at half-

a key figure for Cabinteely in 2018.

Leinster championship success with Foxrock

time of the USA v Ireland reugby international. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Picture: Paul Lundy

Cabinteely. Picture: GAAPics.com

the last ten years, but have been absent from the top level of Dublin hurling for the last two years.

October PAUL Mannion was the star as Kilmacud Crokes brought a first Dublin senior football title since 2010 back to Stillorgan, the Crokes men looking consistently in charge against a Jude’s side nervously searching for their first title. Mannion scored 1-6 without a single wide in an imperious performance as Crokes led from start to finish. Foxrock-Cabinteely fur-

ther cemented their recent dominance of the Dublin Senior Championship at St Margaret’s as a period of utter control in the first half helped the south Dubliners overcome their nearest rivals and take a fourth consecutive title. Anthony Daly bore a smile as wide as the Liffey after Kilmacud Crokes booked their place in the Dublin senior hurling final with a well-deserved win over Cuala on Sunday. Crokes failed in their last two outings to the Dalkey men, both in Championship deciders, but gave a brilliant showing against the reigning All-Ireland champions to finish deserving winners

this time around.

November DUNDRUM South Dublin AC’s Paul O’Donnell had a fantastic breakthrough at national level, when he finished a fine second place in the national Under-23 men’s Cross Country in Abbotstown. T his qualifies him for the European Cross Country Championships in Tilburg in December. From the gun, O’Donnell and Raheny’s Brian Fay surged to the front of the Under-23 race and had a ding dong battle to the finish line with Fay pulling away over the last

600m of the 10,000m race. Foxrock Cabinteely produced another spectacular Leinster final performance to see off Laois club Sarsfields in Kinnegad. Captain Amy R ing stood out, hitting 2-4, with Amy Connolly also a star turn. F oxc a b h ave n ow taken the last four Leinster senior club football championship titles – and passage to the national semi-finals – and won all four comfortably. As a result the 4-11 to 1-8 victory in Kinnegad, in which the dominant Dublin club always

looked in charge, had a familiar air to it, with Foxcab on top from the off.

December MONKSTOWN Lawn Tennis Club – the oldest tennis club in Ireland – was officially recognised as one of the leading sports clubs in the country having been awarded the prestigious Gold Clubmark honour by Tennis Ireland, the sport’s national governing body. Kilmacud Crokes were stunned by Longford club St Columba’s of Mullinalaghta in the Leinster senior club football final in Tullamore as the

Dublin champions fell at Leinster’s final hurdle. Crokes looked set to have seen off the Longford side, though slightly unconvincingly, when they led by three points with just four minutes left on the clock. In the low scoring contest, the Longford club hit 1-2 in the closing stages to turn the game on its head. A strong Mourneabbey start coupled with an early sin-binning for Emma McDonagh made life tough for FoxrockCabinteely, as Mourneabbey went on to deliver their first ever All-Ireland Senior Ladies Club Football title on a tough evening at Parnell Park.

Hockey World Cup silver followed two weeks later by her motor-racing debut.

“To tell you the truth, I could probably have finished him but I decided to let him get back up and recover and get some time in the ring. I think it’s important to get that experience” Sallynoggin boxer Stephen McAfee found a novel way to get some extra rounds in against Damian Lawniczak.

32 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 3 January 2019