Dublin Gazette: South Edition

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DECEMBER 20-26, 2018

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THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE DUN LAOGHAIRE-RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL AREA

Travel troubles on the Luas SOUTH DUBLIN youngsters as young as nine are said to be the “most troublesome” group when it comes to antisocial behaviour on the Luas. SEE PAGE 7

SPORT

Fury over HARK, THE LITTLE ANGELS SING social  houses rejection

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SWIMMING:

Hyland and Coyne break string of short course lifetime bests in China at world championships SEE P34

ADORABLE little Christmas angels Meadow Rankin-Mearns, Patsy Redmond and Ralph O’Reilly hit some heavenly notes as they helped launch the IFA Live Animal Crib in the city centre at The Mansion House.

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THE NEXT ISSUE OF THE DUBLIN GAZETTE – YOUR FAVOURITE LOCAL NEWSPAPER – WILL BE OUT ON DECEMBER 27 Find us on Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

Whether or not you’ll be heading in to town to see the crib, or will be listening to great carol singing from people in your neighbourhood, may Dublin Gazette wish you and yours a very Happy Christmas! Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

Fed up locals protest over Glenalbyn Pool Call for facility to be reopened

REBECCA RYAN

FIVE years on, beyond fed up locals took to the streets in protest last weekend over the Glenalbyn Pool saga calling 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 wellattended protest outside the pool on Sunday morning and said locals are very angry.

She told Dublin Gazette: “It is nothing short of scandalous that five years after our pool was closed abruptly, there is still no sign of it being reopened.

“In the meantime, our swimming club has had to train elsewhere, and locals of all ages have lost out and not had the benefit of a much needed, utilised, and loved community CONTINUES ON PAGE 2 amenity.”

A MAJOR argument broke out at a recent council meeting over the Shanganagh Castle site, with some councillors calling for more social houses to be built on it.

Local Cllr Hugh Lewis (PBP) said that the site had the potential to be the largest social housing development in the county and proposed to raise the amount of social housing on the site to make the majority of it council houses.

Speaking to Dublin Gazette, Cllr Lewis said he is furious that the proposal was rejected in favour of proceeding with the majority of it private.

SEE PAGE 5

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 20 December 2018

PICK UP YOUR

FIVE YEARS ON: FED UP LOCAL RESIDENTS PROTEST OVER GLENALBYN POOL

‘All we want for EVERY THURSDAY! Christmas is our pool back’

DublinGazette SOUTH EDITION

at the following locations:

• Nutgrove Shopping Centre • SuperValu – Ballinteer • Tesco – Petrol station (D.T.C) • Marks&Spencer – Dundrum • Costcutter – Windy Arbour • Scent Restaraunt – Churchtown • SuperValu – Churchtown • St Johns Gaa • St Olafs Gaa • Dundrum Library • Tesco – Rathfarnham • Tesco – Stillorgan • Leisureplex – Stillorgan • Dunnes – Beacon S.Q • Leopardstown S.C • Harvey NormanCarrickmines • Kilmacud Crokes • The Glenside • The Bottle Tower • Tesco – Nutgrove S.C • The Old Orchard – Rathfarnham • Centra – Stepaside • XL – Main St, Dundrum • Frangos Foodhall – D.T.C • Dundrum House • Rathfarnham Credit Union • Spar – Churchtown • SuperValu – Blackrock • Poppies Cafe – Dun Laoghaire • Centra- Glasthule road • Stop Press News & Deli – Dun Laoghaire • Spar – Glasthule • IADT – Dun Laoghaire • Tesco – Bloomfield S.C • Cornelscourt SC • Dalkey News • Dalkey Utd • Centra- Glenageary • SuperValu – Dalkey • Centra – Dalkey • McLoughlins Pub • Lidl – Deansgrange • Bloomfield Shopping Centre • SuperValu – Dun Laoghaire SC • O’Brien’s Day Break – Dun Laoghaire • Dun Laoghaire SC • Tesco – Ballybrack • Tesco – Park Pointe • Tesco – Shankill • Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council – Marine Road • Bank Of Ireland – Deansgrange • SuperValu – Deansgrange • Texaco – Newtown Park Ave • Sandyford Credit Union • Ballinteer Credit Union

For further info

www.dublingazette.com

01 60 10 240

FROM PAGE 1

“We are here because we are angry. We will not be quiet or go away until our pool, which was funded by local families when it was built all those years ago, is reopened. My own family were founder members. I and my children learned to swim there.”

She added that locals are confused as to why there seems to be so much “secrecy” surrounding the reopening of the pool.

“Glenalbyn pool has been closed since December 2013. Despite numerous promises, tens of thousands spent on consultative reports, and fake news

regarding its reopening and where the blame lies, there is no real sign that the pool will reopen.

“In the meantime, new pools have been built in Loughlinstown and Meadowbrook, Dun Laoghaire Baths are under reconstruction, and Ballyogan will have a new pool. Pools in other councils have been repaired and remained open.

“We still don’t understand why Glenalbyn pool has not been repaired and reopened as a community amenity. There has been too much secrecy, confidentiality agreements, and fudge.

“It’s absolutely ridicu-

lous that this saga is still continuing five years after the pool was abruptly closed.”

Ms Ni Laoghaire said she also feels that locals have been “let down” by local politicians.

“What is clear is that we’ve been let down by most of our local politicians. A number of whom recently voted to exclude Glenalbyn pool from the Stillorgan Local Area Plan.

“They are most certainly not representing the wishes of local residents and voters, who have steadfastly maintained the reopening of Glenalbyn pool as a priority local issue,” said Ms Ni

Rosie Ní Laoghaire (inset), Sinn Féin’s Local Area Representative for the Stillorgan LEA, at the protest

Laoghaire.

At the protest, one local resident, who had been on the Glenalbyn management team described the difficulty she had ascertaining where the €1 million plus, collected by locals for the pool, had disappeared to. She said she put in an FOI but has had no answers.

Another local resident lashed out at what she felt was “ageism” being attached to the saga.

She said: “They say it’s because of the ageing population in Stillor-

gan area that they won’t reopen. What does it take for them to realise it’s the ageing population who need to swim, need the social interaction, can afford it and have the time to swim. Shame on your ageism Dunlaoghaire Rathdown.”

Local Minister Shane Ross said: “We are all becoming increasingly frustrated as time ticks by and the pool remains closed.

“In order to avoid further delay, at the beginning of this year I initiated a medi-

ation process between the council and Kilmacud Crokes GAA Club. An official mediator from Sport Ireland was engaged to assist with the progress of talks. This work, the only solution to the current impasse, continues with all parties and I hope will soon reach a resolution.”

20 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

AWARD: ACCOLADE HAS ALREADY INCREASED PROFESSOR’S PROFILE INTERNATIONALLY

Booterstown local named ‘Researcher of the Year’ REBECCA RYAN

A BOOTERSTOWN local feels ‘honoured’ to have been named ‘Researcher of the Year’ 2018.

Anna Davies is a professor at Trinity College Dublin and was awarded for her research in environmental governance and sustainability.

Anna told Dublin Gazette it is an “absolute honour” to receive the award.

“This award is incredibly important to me. It was very nice to take a moment to reflect on my research and its impacts.

“The award has already increased my profile internationally as the networks and organisations that I work with, such as The International Science Council, have spread the word beyond Ireland.

“I hope it also increases the credibility of my interventions in the policy arenas that I work with locally, nationally and internationally.”

Anna completed a PhD and postdoctoral position on sustainable communities at

Parents views on patronage sought

PARENTS have been invited to express their preference for patronage of local primary schools to be established in 2019.

The invitation follows on from the Government’s announcement of the establishment of 42 new schools over the next four years from 2019 to 2022.

The primary schools in the South Dublin are Booterstown/Blackrock, Dublin6/Clonskeagh and Goatstown/Stillorgan/ DLR. Local Minister Josepha Madigan encouraged all parents to make their views known on the kind of school they want to see in their area.

Parents are invited to express their patronage preferences using the new Online Patronage Process System (OPPS) website www.patronage.education.gov.ie.

The process will run until January15, 2019.

Cambridge University in the late 90s and went on to a lectureship at Kings College in London. She came to a lectureship in the Geography Department in Trinity in 2001 as an early career researcher and she said she has “never looked back.”

“When I arrived, it was a very productive time to be a researcher in Ireland and particularly in my area of expertise which is focused on how we, as a society, make decisions about the environment.

“I am particularly interested in who decides what kinds of values count in these decisions. This is an issue that is as important now as it was back at the turn of the century, with issues of climate change and biodiversity loss even higher on the policy agenda.

“I am particularly interested in how grassroots community actions can influence policies and outcomes.

“We see that here in Ireland in many ways, for example where communities come together in reaction to policy changes, such as with the protests against the

water charges, for example.

“There are also examples where community initiatives are proactively pushing for more sustainable ways of living.

I’ve been involved with The Rediscovery Centre in Ballymun for more than a decade and they do incredibly important work around recycling, reuse and the circular economy.”

So, what is next for Anna Davies. She is passionate about passing on a “sustainable planet to our children and grandchildren” and she is working on another project called Climate Smart which looks at how using smart technologies could help encourage communities to get more involved in planning climate change adaptation strategies.

“One thing that concerns me is that stipends for PhD students haven’t gone up since 2006 and we all know how difficult it is to find affordable accommodation in Dublin. We could be losing many talented researchers because they simply cannot afford to live in Dublin.”

Professor Anna Davies. Picture: Marc O’Sullivan

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 20 December 2018

CHRISTMAS APPEAL: CLONDALKIN HELPING HOMELESS, FEED OUR HOMELESS TO BENEFIT

Tesco raise over €40k worth of donations for charities TESCO stores across Dublin have raised €44,749 worth of donations for local charities as part of Tesco Ireland’s annual Christmas Appeal.

Across the country, a total of €150,000 worth of donations has been collected to support families in need in their local communities.

Some of the organisations benefiting from the appeal in Dublin include Clondalkin Helping Homeless, Cheeverstown, Feed Our Homeless and Addiction Recovery.

The annual Tesco Ireland Christmas Appeal ran in Tesco stores from December 7 to 9 and shoppers were asked to donate a product instore to their local charitable organisation.

Food, toiletries, nappies, small clothing items and toys were donated as part of the three-day appeal.

Volunteers from 130 good causes, already supported by the Tesco’s surplus food donations programme, were on-hand across the country on Sunday to collect these goods for local distribution.

Aoife Donohoe, head of corporate affairs Tesco Ireland said: “We are delighted that our Christmas Appeal collected over €150,000 this year for our partner charitable organisations across the country.

“We all know and recognise that Christmas

can be a tough time for some people and we are really grateful to our customers for their continuous generosity donating items over the weekend.

“Volunteers from the organisations worked tirelessly over the three-days and are now in the process of delivering the donations collected during the appeal to those in need ahead of Christmas.”

All of the items donated during the appeal in Tesco stores have been given to 130 partner causes from the Tesco surplus food donations programme which is run in partnership with FoodCloud.

Anna Daly launching the appeal with Naoise Roddy and Jamie Finnie. Picture: Brian McEvoy

Airport reveals plans for €1.7bn upgrade SYLVIA POWNALL

SPA-LIKE showers, a barista bar and new fasttrack services are just

some of the proposals outlined in an ambitious €1.7 billion upgrade for Dublin Airport.

More than 100 planned

projects are outlined in Dublin’s latest draft capital investment programme published by the Commission for Aviation

Regulation.

The upmarket upgrade is deemed necessary to cope with the anticipated extra 10 million passengers that will travel through the airport from 2020.

In all the total spend

forecast is €1.68 billion which includes new boarding gate areas, aircraft parking stands and other key infrastructure.

Around 30 million passengers use Dublin Airport each year and its rapid growth is set to

continue with a prediction that it will attract 40 million travellers by 2020.

There are plans to move T1’s security from the ground floor to the mezzanine level, allowing for more seating,

retail and food outlets at the departure area on the ground floor.

The T1 security move would cost around €50 m i l l i o n to c o m p l e te and the upgrade to the ground floor departures area would require a €43 million spend.

Improvements to the airport’s fast-track security services are also proposed on foot of suggestions and feedback from five-star and long-haul airlines using the hub.

In arrivals fast-track services are also being considered at both T1 and T2 to enable passengers to skip queues at passport control – for a fixed fee charged through the airlines.

Executive lounges at T1 are to be fitted out with “spa-like showers” under the draft plan with similar upgrades planned in the lounges at T2 and US pre-clearance.

Other major developments include the building of 5,960 long- and short-term car parking spaces.

Airport users are invited to provide feedback on the consultation document which will determine CAR’s draft airport charges for the period 2020-2024; it can be viewed at www.aviationreg.ie.

20 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

CENTENARY

ROW OVER SHANGANAGH CASTLE SITE

Honouring Countess Markievicz TO MARK the centenary of the election of Countess Constance Markievicz to Parliament in the UK in December 1918, Richmond Barracks Exhibition Centre have launched a new commemorative online exhibition.

The new exhibition is entitled You Never Saw Such Excitement – The 1918 election of Constance Markievicz.

Eadaoin Ni Chleirigh, chief executive at Richmond Barracks, said: “Countess Markievicz has a place not only in Irish revolutionary history, but in British parliamentary history, as she was the first woman to be formally elected to Parliament on December 28, 1918.”

The online exhibition is available at: https:// artsandculture.google. com/partner/richmondbarracks.

Fury after more social houses proposal rejected

Head gardener Seamus gets prestigious gold medal award THE Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland awarded its gold Medal of Honour to Seamus O’Brien (right), head gardener at the National Botanic Gardens, Kilmacurragh recently.

The presentation was made at a luncheon at the Royal St George Yacht Club

by Robert Myerscough (left), President of the RHSI. Seamus thanked the the RHSI for instigating the awarding of the medal to him and said: “I am greatly honoured to have been chosen, particularly given the glittering list of past recipients.”

Seamus is one of Ireland’s most outstanding present-day plantsmen, and is widely known throughout the island, and in the UK.

A MAJOR argument broke out at a recent council meeting over the Shanganagh Castle site, with some councillors calling for more social houses to be built on it.

Local Cllr Hugh Lewis (PBP) said that the site had the potential to be the largest social housing development in the county and proposed to raise the amount of social housing on the site to make the majority of it council houses.

Speaking to Dublin Gazette, Cllr Lewis said he is furious that the proposal was rejected in favour of proceeding with the majority of it private.

Cllr Lewis said: “We all

agree as councillors for the urgent need to expedite the construction of social homes at the Shanganagh Castle site, this is not and has never been in question.

“The real issue is the amount of council homes to be built, the current proposal to limit the figure of social homes to 200 out of total of 540 is unsustainable.

“With up to 5,000 families in need of a home across the county, and the homelessness crisis spiralling out of control, we must guarantee that the majority of all housing built on council owned lands will be public and the rest provided are genuinely affordable to the people of

our county.

“It’s time councillors faced the reality of the housing crisis and aggressively pursue the construction of large amounts of social housing.

“Until this is done it is inevitable the crisis will continue to deepen.”

Cllr Hugh Lewis

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 20 December 2018

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

A closer look at the Custom House Tumbling snowflakes dance down the front of the Custom House

Awash in a sea of neon colours T

AKE A moment when you’re in town this weekend to look up and around – the Winter Lights Dublin CIty project has transformed many landmarks after dark and is one of the most popular (and colourful) public events this Christmas.

Several landmarks come alive after dark in a blaze of neon colour, with shimmering snowflakes, dancing shapes and even a certain toymaker’s sleigh to be seen darting about near the river.

The eco-friendly projections use little power, and the

riverside projections are best veiwed at high tide, for some fantastic reflections. So, whenever you’re near the likes of the GPO, Trinity College, City Hall, Custom House – take a moment to take in the sights, as well as the great lights all around. Pictures: Shane Dillon

Bystanders admire the GPO facade

City Hall has some of the busiest light projections

Samuel Beckett Bridge

Sedate snowflakes spiral at TCD’s main entrance

Colourful reflections alongside Butt Bridge

20 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

HOUSING: LARGE VOLUMES OF NEW HOMES TO BE BUILT IN DUNDRUM IN COMING YEARS

Call to deliver school sites before 2,500 new homes THERE is a call for Dundrums Local Area Plan to deliver school sites before 2,500 new homes.

The deadline for submissions to the pre-draft stage of the plan closed last Friday, and Éirígí local election candidate, Brian Leeson, believes that the ‘Issues Paper’ produced by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council for does not give sufficient priority to the need for additional school places in the area.

Speaking to Dublin Gazette, Mr

Leeson said: “The Issues Paper that DLR produced for the Dundrum Local Area Plan was meant to give the public a ‘broad overview of the main development issues’ facing Dundrum, but there is only a single sentence dedicated to the issue of schools.

“Why are schools given such a low priority when the same document anticipates that up to 2,500 new homes will be built in the area covered by the plan in the coming years?

“Families have just started moving into 44 new homes in Rosemount.

Almost 400 new apartments and houses are already under construction at Fernbank, Herbert Hill and The Nurseries in Dundrum Village.

“More than 2,000 other new homes could follow on the Central Mental Hospital site and the old Dundrum shopping centre site.

“All of these new builds could potentially generate an additional demand for 500 to 1,000 school

places.

“The existing primary schools in Dundrum do not have the capacity for a such a surge in demand, so where are the children that will live in these new homes going to be educated?”

Mr Leeson believes the track record of finding suitable sites for new primary schools has been “appalling”.

“Ballinteer Educate Together, which was established almost seven years ago, is still without a permanent home.

“Gaelscoil Shliabh Rua, which was meant to serve the communities of Ballinteer and Stepaside ended up being built outside its own feeder area in Carrickmines.

“Before the go ahead is given for new housing the authorities need to identify and ring-fence one or more sites that can be used for new schools as they are required.

“The Central Mental Hospital site would be an ideal location for a new school,” said Mr Leeson.

Youngsters are most problematic for Luas REBECCA RYAN

Celebrating some incredible creativity PICTURED at the dlr Lexicon in Dún Laoghaire for the presentation of prizes in the dlr TY STEM Hackathon 2018 for Transtion Year and 5th Year Students where participants were tasked with developing solutions for assisted living technologies, were Ayder Eminov, Laurie Doherty. Picture: Peter Cavanagh Photography

SOUTH DUBLIN youngsters as young as nine are said to be the “most troublesome” group when it comes to anti-social behaviour on the Luas.

A report from Luas operators, Transdev, said that an area on south Dublin’s green line, past Sandyford, is one of the most problematic.

LUAS operator, Transdev said that close to 1,000 incidents of antisocial or threatening behaviour on trams were reported in the first 10 months of this year.

Abuse ranging from disorderly behaviour to assault, with children between the ages of nine and 15 are causing the most problems.

Overall, anti-social behaviour and crime has decreased on the tram service over the last two years, but Transdev said they are still concerned about racism and abuse towards their staff.

Last month the National Rail and Bus Union have launched a campaign to highlight the need for a Garda Public Transport Police Unit to curb the alarming increase in

anti-social behaviour and assaults on drivers, and this latest report has reignited that call.

Fianna Fail’s Dublin spokesperson, John Lahart TD said the situation must be urgently dealt with by establishing a Transport Police Unit.

Deputy Lahart said: “It’s clear from today’s statistics that antisocial issues on public transport services are not going away and that Minister Ross cannot continue to offload responsibility for addressing these challenges.

“Public transport operators such as Transdev are already spending in the region of €2.5 million on private security firms that have no power or authority in an attempt to contain incidents.

“Of course, we cannot legislate for bad manners or poor judgement but reports of racial and verbal abuse being experienced by LUAS staff and drivers are deeply upsetting.

“There must be a zero-tolerance approach to this behaviour.

“Private security firms may well offer some sense of reassurance to commuters, but they are not enough of a deterrent for those intent on

causing disturbance. That can only be achieved by transport police,” said Deputy Lahart.

However local Senator Neale Richmond believes that a dedicated policing unit is not needed for the Luas.

He told Dublin Gazette: “LUAS caters for 109,000 commuters every day and while it is extremely popular, it caters for less people than Dublin Bus or the DART, so I do not think a dedicated policing unit is needed for LUAS. “However, it is vital that An Garda Siochana and the private security personnel employed by LUAS operators employed by Transdev work closely together to police the LUAS line.

“Anti-social behaviour is a problem and I have raised the matter previously with Transdev in relation to LUAS track material being used as a tool for vandalism and worrying incidents at LUAS stops, particularly late at night.

“An expansion of LUAS CCTV, increased security provision and more Garda patrols of the stops are all required.”

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 20 December 2018

ENVIRONMENT: ANOTHER LOCAL AUTHORITY GOES GREEN WITH SOME OF ITS TRANSPORT

Electric vehicles spark council’s interest ANOTHER Dublin council is going green by replacing their petrol and diesel cars with new electric vehicles.

South Dublin County Council recently added five Citroen Berlingos to their fleet as part of a commitment to improving the environment.

They are the third Dublin council to make the switch to electric after Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, which launched its new fleet in February, and Fingal, which launched its new

electric council vehicles in July.

It is hoped this latest decision by a local Dublin authority to switch to electric vehicles (EV) will encourage other road users in the capital to do likewise.

Back in June, the Government introduced a toll charge reduction scheme for electric vehicles.

The scheme means that electric vehicle owners will only pay half the toll rate and plug-in hybrid vehicles

will get a 25% toll reduction.

Eligible private car owners may be able to accumulate up to €500 in toll savings per annum and up to €1,000 in savings for goods vehicles.

Drivers can avail of the discount by signing up for an EV tag with an approved toll tag provider.

Speaking at South Dublin County Council’s launch of the new EVs, Mayor Mark Ward said he hopes others will follow the council’s lead.

He said: “This is our first step in the decarbonisation of our fleet. Electricpowered vehicles reduce the impact of the council fleet on local air quality.

“Other carbon-reducing projects in the pipeline include Tallaght’s district heating project, the replacement of lightbulbs with LEDs in council buildings and street lighting, and improving transport linkages, which includes the develop-

ANIMALS: CHARITY WARNING AS MANY PETS SOON SURRENDERED

Think twice before you get a dog for Christmas SYLVIA POWNALL

DOGS Trust is suspending rehoming and adoptions this Christmas after recording a 30% rise in numbers surrendering pets

after the festive season.

The Dublin-based charity has dealt with 2,840 requests to surrender dogs so far this year – with 897 received in the first three months of 2018 and 334 in

January alone.

Executive director Suzie Carley said: “Each year we are saddened and worried by the number of people looking to relinquish their dog, especially in the first

few months after Christmas.

“Owning a dog is a longterm commitment so we are urging people to wait and take due consideration at any time of the year but especially when thinking of getting a dog for Christmas.”

“We would encourage those who have made the decision to get a dog, to consider adopting from your local rescue centre, local pound or Dogs Trust and give a rescue dog the best second chance in life.

Think twice before taking on a serious commitment

The organisation is also urging dog lovers to sponsor their Puppy Play Groups so they can do their bit for canine pals at www. dogstrust.ie/sponsor.

ment of cycle tracks.”

Five dedicated charging points have been installed in a number of the council’s offices and depots.

South Dublin county currently has 12 public charge points and five fleet charge points, and many supermarkets within the county provide EV charge points for their customers while they shop.

The five EVs are now operational and being used across the county.

Irish Life employees help raise €360,000 for two Irish charities RACHEL D’ARCY

EMPLOYEES of a leading Irish company have raised €360,000 for two Irish charities in the largest sum ever donated in a single year by a company.

Irish Life employees raised the funds throughout 2018, with its 2,400 employees participating in different fundraising initiatives.

The company then matched the amount raised by the employees, to reach the final €360,000 total.

This year, the charities chosen by Irish Life staff are the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association, an organisation dedicated to working with people living with MND and their families and carers, and Remember Us, which provides a unique social outlet to people with special needs and their families.

Each charity this year will receive a donation of €180,000 to help provide essential support services, ongoing equipment needs, and critical research funding.

This is the largest amount ever raised by Irish Life in one year and equates to almost €1,000 raised every day by staff this year.

Irish Life employees took part in several different fundraising activities this year for the chosen charities.

These activities included more than 185 staff taking part in Hell and

Back, 125 staff completing the Great Dublin Bike Ride, 200 staff participating in a Last Man Standing weekly soccer prediction competition, table quizzes, a Ticket Fairy competition for monthly salary contributors, and additional funds from staff who ran marathons and competed in triathlons throughout the year.

Commenting on the donation, David Harney, chief executive of Irish Life, said: “We are delighted to donate this significant amount to two very worthy charities this year.

“The spirit of serving communities in which we’re based and supporting those in need is a key part of our culture in Irish Life, and this donation to the IMNDA and Remember Us reflects that.

‘Very proud’ “I’m very proud of our staff for really getting behind this initiative each year and being so supportive of our fundraising initiatives and giving their time for such worthy causes.”

Each year, the Irish Life Staff Charities committee shortlists a number of Irish charities to receive donations collected throughout the year, and the final two are selected

by Irish Life employees.

Since its inception, the Irish Life Staff Charities initiative has raised in excess of €2.9 million for a wide range of Irish and international charities.

20 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

PEOPLE: CILLIAN’S FOLLOWING SOME SKY-HIGH AMBITIONS WITH THE PRESTIGIOUS AGENCY

Meet the Dublin engineer hoping to reach out to the stars with ESA REBECCA RYAN

A BUDDING Dublin scientist has won a huge national competition to train at the European Space Agency (ESA).

Cillian Murphy won the coveted position, along with Amy Joyce from Clonmel, who are both now in Madrid with the programme.

The traineeships, which can last for one year or more, offers life-changing opportunities to pursue a career in Europe’s gateway to space.

Dundrum man Cillian (26) told Dublin Gazette how the achievement gave him a real boost.

He said: “It felt great.

I’ve worked with ESA before, so I was excited to work with them again.

“I hadn’t been having much luck trying to get a PhD and had taken up a job working as an engineer in Hungary, so I felt myself straying from my career path.

“Winning the national traineeship has been great and really bolstered my motivation again.”

Cillian has a master’s

degree in space and science technology from UCD. He will work on the Gaia Mission to assist in completing an astrometric survey of stars, using spacecraft observation.

He is also a future analog astronaut candidate with the Austrian Space Forum (OeWF).

Cillian said he has always had an interest in science from a young age: “My mother loves to tell a story about me, at five years old, being given free choice from a bookshop and coming back with a space encyclopedia.

“I decided to pursue science in secondary school and focused on physics.

It was only once I started studying physics in UCD that I settled on pursuing space science.”

During the traineeship with the ESA, the top-ranking researcher will work on cutting edge projects and gain practical experience in high-tech space activities.

Cillian said he is “excited” about the work ahead and being in Madrid: “It’s impossible to pick just one thing that I am looking

Budding Dublin scientist Cillian Murphy with fellow Irish scientist Amy Joyce – both secured training with the European Space Agency, ESA

forward to and enjoying at ESA. “I love the working environment, the general friendliness of people and the variety of clubs and non-work activities you can join.

“I’m excited about the work, about having the

opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a space mission I admire and have followed since before it was launched years ago.

“I’m enthusiastic to learn everything I can from the experiences I will have and from the

colleagues I am meeting.”

James would love to work with the ESA someday and ultimately wants to become an ESA astronaut.

“My highest ambition is to become an ESA

astronaut in the future.

I’m aware that’s highly ambitious espec ially because Ireland are not big contributors to the ESA and we don’t support the human spaceflight

programme at all. But it’s still the dream.

“More realistically, I hope still to work with ESA but to work as a researcher in ESAC or in mission control in ESOC.”

Help turn miles into millions for GOAL RACHEL D’ARCY

You’re never too big – or too small – to walk, run or jog a mile to support GOAL

FROM Ballybrack to Ballsbridge, a number of Dublin community groups are expected to be out in force to raise funds for GOAL this Christmas.

Now in its 37th year, the GOAL Mile is held every Christmas and is one of the country’s largest and longest-running annual fundraising events.

Last year, more than €70,000 was raised in Dublin through the GOAL Mile to help support the work the charity carries out in the developing world.

There will be a number of different GOAL Miles taking place across Dublin up until January 1, from Tallaght, to Irishtown, to Shankill, to Santry and beyond.

‘A family tradition’ Alan Vard from GOAL said: “The GOAL Mile has become a tradition for many families and communities over the Christmas period, and thanks to organisers, millions have been raised to support GOAL’s work in the developing world since the first Mile was staged in 1982.

“The beauty of the GOAL Mile is its simplicity. People don’t need

to register in advance but simply show up to their nearest event, run or walk a mile and contribute whatever they can afford to GOAL on the day.”

If you are interested in taking part in your local GOAL mile, all you need to do is find out the date and time of your local event, put on your walking or running shoes and just turn up.

There is no need to register; just turn up and donate what you can to GOAL on the day.

To find out where your local GOAL Mile is taking place, see www.goalmile.org.

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 20 December 2018

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Brian O Haonghusa,Ray Shah and Kevin Prout

Catherien Fallows and Nidhi Bhanushali

Ryder Galvin and Cherry O Brien. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Susie McGowan

Lucy Kennedy

Cinema goers assemble

Laura Wall and Treasa Wall

A

Lisa and Maisiebelle Colgan

Remi Hehir and Amelia Sharkey

special preview screening of the latest movie in the Transformers franchise ‘Bumblebee’ was held in the Odeon Cinema In Point Square.

Kate Bownes and Senan Kelly

Dayl Cronin

Josh Gray and Alex Gray

20 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

Yolanda Zaw and Rebecca Brady

Stephen Byrne

Pippa O Connor

Jane Masterson, Enda Corneille and Anita Thomas. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Emirates Down Under Christmas Party enjoyed C

Ed O Rourke and Sean Munsanje

Louise Cooney and Megan Virgo

hristmas Down Under was the theme of Emirates’ annual Christmas party, which was held at House on Leeson Street.

Guests, many of whom have flown with Emirates, got together to celebrate another great year

Raheny friends remembering Barbara Monaghan, Alan Barry and Mary Bermingham. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

Katie O’Reilly, Jennifer Costello, Charlie Costello and Olive Andrews

A night to S remember in Raheny

T Francis Hospice Raheny hosted their Tree of Life ceremony last week to remember those they have cared for over the years.

During the service the lights of the Hospice Christmas Tree were turned on to remember all those cared for both past and present.

Attendees were provided with a red candle for the ceremony which could be taken home after.

for the global airline, which has been operating in Ireland since 2012. Emirates connects passengers from Dublin twice daily direct to Dubai and onwards to cities across Australia, along with many other destinations around the globe.

Conor and Helen Dunne with Laura and Rachel O’Kelly

Des Nix, Sr Margaret Cashman and Fintan Fagan, St Francis Hospice CEO

12 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

CHRISTMAS SEASON : GET YOURSELF WINTER READY TO PREVENT BAD INFECTIONS

HSE reminding people to keep well over winter season RACHEL D’ARCY

THE Health Service Executive is reminding the public to look after their health over the Christmas and winter season.

They warn that viral infections become more common at different times of the year, presenting themselves in winter as outbreaks of flu and as the winter vomiting bug. They have said that the infections are dictated by their own life-cycle, which is out of human control.

Respiratory tract infections and norovirus gastroenteritis – better known as winter vomiting are most common in winter.

FASTNews Reach out to elderly neighbours

ALONE is urging people to reach out to elderly neighbours who may be lonely or isolated this Christmas.

The charity which supports older people to age at home is highlighting its Have a Laugh for Loneliness campaign as the festive season gets into full swing.

Seán Moynihan, CEO of ALONE, said: “Over the winter period, calls for support dramatically increase and loneliness is one of the most common issues facing older people.

“Many older people think that by asking for help and support they are bothering people. ALONE want them to know that they deserve the help they require and should not be afraid to ask for it.”

Dr Diarmuid O’Shea, president of The Irish Gerontological Society, warned: “Loneliness is every bit as harmful to your health as smoking, drinking, lack of exercise, high blood pressure and obesity.”

ALONE’s activities in the coming days will include Christmas dinner dances for older people and volunteers, the delivery of hampers and Christmas trees to older people in need and a special Christmas Day dinner delivery for a number of older people.

For those who have concerns about their own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of an older person in their community, ALONE can be contacted on (01) 679 1032.

To make a donation and help aid ALONE’s work, visit www.alone.ie

According to Dr Vida Hamilton, HSE National Clinical Advisor, people who are fit and healthy can usually weather these infections with bed rest, plenty of fluids and over-the-counter symptom relief.

However, these infections are very contagious so those who are infected need to be very careful of managing their surroundings and who they come in contact with.

Unfortunately, Dr Hamilton has warned that infected people are contagious even before they become symptomatic, so it can be very difficult to prevent spread to loved ones who are not so healthy and fit.

Dr Hamilton advises: “Prevention is much better than cure, even if you are in great health yourself, fit and healthy people have different abilities to fight off infection due to their different genetics. You don’t necessarily know how good your infection fighting genes are until you get a really bad infection.

“How can we prevent infection? Vaccination is the most effective method -- tried, tested and very closely monitored for safety and effectiveness.

“The current flu vaccine is a good match for the circulating flu viruses, which is good news.

“Unfortunately, there is no effective vaccine for winter vomiting bug so we are back to good infec-

tion control practice. There is also a vaccine recommended for people with chronic disease called the pneumococcal vaccine.

“This vaccine protects vulnerable people from bad pneumonia and meningitis caused by this bug.”

“We know that 20% of patient admissions to hospital are due to chest infections and prevention is always better than cure.

“Handwashing is vitally important as viruses can live for days on surfaces and our hands, then bring the bugs to our faces, which can lead to winter vomiting or flu. Every time you wash your hands you protect yourself.”

Move over Ronan: Keating’s nephew on song for charity SYLVIA POWNALL

RONAN Keating’s nephew has released a Christmas single to raise funds for the cancer charity set up in his grandmother’s name.

Ta l e n te d te e n Jo s h Keating, 13, is following in Swords native Ronan’s footsteps with his cover of Birdy’s ‘Not About Angels’ in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation.

The song is available for download on iTunes and Spotify with all proceeds being donated to the foundation’s cancer awareness and prevention work.

Josh first heard the song on the movie soundtrack to The Fault in Our Stars and chose it because of its connection with cancer.

He said: “I have always loved to sing and been passionate about music.

The opportunity to record this single came up and I just jumped at the chance.

“The fact that I can, hopefully, raise a lot of money for a cause so close to mine and my family’s heart, makes it even more special.”

The single was debuted in Ireland at the Marie Keating Foundation’s annual Christmas lunch where Josh performed in front of an audience of more than 300 guests and supporters.

T h e M a r i e Ke a t i n g

Foundation receives no g ove r n m e n t f u n d i n g and relies on donations to continue to provide mobile units and nursing outreach.

It also provides supports including the Comfort Fund service and its survivorship programmes for people who are living with and have come through cancer.

Foundation CEO Liz Yeates said: “We are marking 20 years since Marie Keating died from breast cancer, so it is a very special year for Josh to release this single.

“So much has been achieved in Marie’s name over that time and we look forward to supporting cancer survivors and their families for many more years to come.

“At this time of year, we just want to send a heartfelt thanks to all of our supporters and volunteers for their help and generosity over the past 20 years, we wouldn’t be here without your continued support.”

Uncle Ronan, who will take to the road for Boyzone’s farewell tour next year, said: “We as a family are so proud of Josh.

“The money raised from this single will go a long way towards helping the charity provide support and help to more people in 2019 and beyond.”

“

The fact that I can, hopefully, raise a lot of money for a cause so close to mine and my family’s heart, makes it even more special

20 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

CALL FOR CLARITY OVER FUTURE OF MAISONETTES

FASTNews

Homeless man set fire to Rathmines flat

Christmas Day Lunch for those living alone

THE annual Dun Laoghaire Christmas Day Lunch for people living alone will mark its 32nd anniversary this year.

Founded in 1986 by local Margaret Brown, the Christmas Day Lunch brings people together who would otherwise be by themselves.

The lunch is expected to cater to around 300 people and meals will also be provided and delivered on Christmas Day for thoses who cannot make it on the day.

Margaret Brown told Dublin Gazette: “We are extremely grateful to the members and staff of the Blackrock Rugby Club for the excellent venue that is given free of charge for the day, and also to our sponsors and dedicated volunteers.”

The lunch starts at 12 noon and live music by William Byrne and entertainment will follow.

Free transport will be provided by Ed. Kenny Coaches leaving Tesco Ballybrack at 10.50am, Rochestown House at 11am, Noggin Inn 11.10am, St Joseph’s Church Bus Stop 11.20am and St Michael’s Church at approx. 11.30am.

Contact (01) 280 4776 for further transport options.

Students set to put on a show MOUNT Temple Comprehensive School’s transition year students are excited to be putting on a production of the hit musical Hairspray.

Based on the New Line Cinema film written and directed by John Waters, the show will run for five nights from Tuesday 15th to Saturday 19th of January 2019.

The big show will be performed in the 500-tiered seated auditorium featuring 80 students, 180 costumes, 65 lights, 30 wigs, stage sets from London and an eight-piece live band.

Tickets are available by emailing hairspraytickets@ mounttemple.ie or by telephone 01 833 6984 or at Event Brite.

Doors open at 7.30pm and show starts at 8pm.

COURTS

Cllr Deirdre Donnelly outside St Laurence’s Maisonnettes

‘Someone will freeze to death’ REBECCA RYAN

THERE is a call for clarity over the future of the row of maisonettes in Stillorgan, some of which have been boarded up for the last few years.

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Councillor, Deirdre Donnelly (IND) said the situation at St Laurence’s Maisonettes is “scandalous” in the midst of a housing crisis.

She told Dublin Gazette: “It is absolutely scandalous that these homes remain closed when we have so many people on the housing list.

“A number of these units have been boarded up for years and I was informed by DLRCOCO officials in 2016 that the entire block was in the process of being de-tenanted.

“I met with the last remaining occupants at that time and they were offered alternative accommodation.

“I put a motion on the agenda for the local area committee late last year requesting the refurbishment of the units and that they would be offered to people in desperate need of a roof over their heads.

“I was told that there were long term plans for the entire site and that a much larger number of homes would be built.

“This would also include the development of a new library which of course would be very welcome in

Stillorgan since the current facility is one of the most used in the county,” said Cllr Donnelly.

Cllr Donnelly expressed concern for the future of the site following a recent comment the chief executive made about capital funding for the local authority.

“The chief executive, Philomena Poole, was asked at a council meeting about the future of specific projects that were earmarked for capital fund-

“

library and proposed housing development will not go ahead or if there is even a hint of uncertainty, then I really believe that the maisonettes should be refurbished and offered to people on the housing list.

“The capital funding that was approved earlier this year includes the housing project and the library, so I am very confused at this stage.

“If this is now contingent on the harbour it may be some time before we have news about the future of these projects.

“I think that this is totally unacceptable that this building with 16 housing units remains boarded up if the future of the site is so uncertain.”

Cllr Donnelly added she would like to see the units refurbished and offered to the public who are in “desperate need of housing”.

“The weather is getting colder and it is totally outrageous that these units remain vacant, with no clarity on the funding for the long-term plans on the site.

“I am concerned that someone could freeze to death overnight sleeping in such inadequate accommodation. I am therefore asking the chief executive for answers on what is an absolutely scandalous situation,” concluded Cllr Donnelly.

I think that this is totally unacceptable that this building remains boarded up if the future of the site is so uncertain ing following the DLRCOCO takeover of Dun Laoghaire Harbour.

“She replied ‘If there is a significant impact then I can tell you without a shadow of a doubt that we would have to relook at the capital projects.

“And I can’t say that the ringfencing nature of any major capital project that is not in contract will be certain.”

Cllr Donnelly said it was the first time she heard of any capital project being in jeopardy.

“I immediately became concerned about the library site. If the new

A HOMELESS man who set fire to an acquaintance’s flat and caused over €29,000 damage has received a partially suspended sentence.

Alan Jackson (32), who is of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to criminal damage by arson at Rathmines Avenue, Rathmines, on August 21, 2017.

Judge Martina Baxter sentenced him to six years imprisonment but suspended the final 18 months for a period of 18 months provided he engage with the Probation Services upon his release.

Garda Barry Bolton told Garret Baker BL, prosecuting, that the injured party, Patricia Martin, knew Jackson for a number of years prior to the offence and had helped him out by giving him food and letting him use her shower.

Following the arson, she and her daughter had to move out of their home of 17 years.

The court heard she had never been in a romantic relationship with Jackson.

Gda Bolton said Ms Martin received a phone call from Jackson after 5.30pm on the evening, during which he became increasingly aggressive and threatened to burn her flat down.

After meeting with Jackson and once again being threatened by him, she arranged that she and her daughter would stay in a friend’s home that night.

Gda Bolton said that he went to the flat in response to a call about a blaze and encountered Jackson exiting the front door wielding a large wooden stick that was burning on top. The garda deployed his pepper spray when Jackson failed to drop the stick.

In interview after his arrest, Jackson claimed he had been in a relationship with Ms Martin and admitted setting fire to her clothes in the bedroom. He said the fire went up too quickly and he was unable to put out the flames with the stick he had brought with him.

Judge Baxter said the mitigating circumstances in the case were Jackson’s early plea of guilty, his troubled family background, his history of drug addiction and his remorse.

She said the tragic aspect of the case was that the person who had helped Jackson had been made to suffer through a horrific experience for doing so.

Judge Baxter backdated the sentence to August 23, 2017, the day in which he went into custody on this matter.

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

LOVE YOUR DUBLIN: THE BREAKDOWN OF THE COSIEST PUBS FOR A XMAS DRINK

TAKE A TRIP OFF THE BEATEN PATH THAT IS TEMPLE BAR FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS GET-TOGETHERS

DUBLIN MADE EASY W

AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT DUBLIN’S BEST BARS FOR A FESTIVE TIPPLE

ITH this being the final work week of the year for many Dubliners, thoughts will be turning to getting together for a few post work drinks with colleagues.

Living in Dublin has its ups, like the bars, the delectable restaurants and beautiful the parks, but it also has its downs -the rent costs, the crowds and the traffic.

But even the grumpiest Dubliner has a hard time denying the craic that is to be had in the city come Christmas.

For most of us our favourite way to celebrate the season is to get together and go for a few drinks, sing a few festive favourites and catch up on all the events of the last twelve months whith those we may not have seen since last Christmas.

It might be cold outside but these Dublin bars will warm you up, and give you a big dose of festive cheer.

So grab your colleagues, close friends, those home for the season, and dive into one of these legendary establishments.

HORSESHOE BAR

37 DAWSON STREET

TONERS

HIGHLIGHT: Whiskey selection

HIGHLIGHT: Late opening hours

HIGHLIGHT: One of Dublin’s oldest pubs

THE HORSESHOE BAR in the Shelbourne Hotel is one of Dublin’s most famous and unique bars and this year, as always, they’ve really pushed the boat out of Christmas with a massive tree and beautiful decorations.

Since first opening its doors in 1957 it has long been established as Dublin’s prime venue.

The Horseshoe Bar has always been a meeting point for the rich and famous so you never know who you might bump into!

With a wide selection of drinks, including an impressive selection of whiskeys, you’re guaranteed a great time in this epic bar.

37 DAWSON STREET is another centrally located city centre bar that is perfect for Christmas get togethers.

With an extensive cocktail list and a Whiskey Bar (that stocks 37 different Irish whiskies), this dimly lit beautifully furnished bar is a lovely place to sit back and relax after a hard year at the office!

37 also serves great food throughout the day so there’ll be no need to leave and go on the hunt for “soakage”!

The bar opens late (even on Sundays!) so it’s a great venue if you’re in a large crowd and worried about getting separated later in the night.

LOCATED ON Baggot Street, Toners is one of Dublin’s oldest and best pubs, and very popular with city centre workers for a post work pint or two.

With an award winning snug, drawers behind the bar and a flagged floor, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time, especially after a few pints!

According to Rory Guinness, a member of the Guinness family, Toners serve “the best pint of Guinness in Dublin” and who is going to argue with him!

Toners also has two great private function rooms which are free to hire if you want to get away from the crowds.

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

MAGAZINE

DUBLIN

RURAL RETREATS TO RELAX ANY GUEST... P20

HAVE YOURSELF A COSY LITTLE CHRISTMAS P27

Renegade Jeep is an impressive new SUV P28

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

GRATEFUL FOR ‘GIFT OF LIFE’

BROADCASTER Claire Byrne took time out for a photoshoot with kidney transplant recipient Tadhg McElroy (age 7) from Bray and Sadhbh Browne (age 4) from Galway, who awaits a liver transplant, and their families and friends to highlight an important radio advertising awareness campaign, organised by the Irish Kidney Association, which encourages families and friends to discuss organ donation as they gather for the festive season. For organ donor cards Freetext DONOR to 50050 or visit website www.ika.ie/card, download a free ‘digital organ donor card’ APP to your phone. #Havethechat.

Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

FEATURE

Nebraskans Mary and Jeff Brookstein love the real Santa Claus so much, they legally changed their names to Merry Christmas and Santa Claus

PEOPLE | IT’S SNOW JOKE – THIS CHRISTMAS-LOVING COUPLE LEGALLY CHANGED THEIR NAMES

Meet the other Santa Claus spreading Christmas cheer REBECCA RYAN

A COUPLE from Nebraska who legally changed their names to Santa and Merry Christmas Claus recently visited Dublin to spread some Christmas cheer.

Previously known as Jeff and Mary Brookstein, the Christmas-loving couple (both 60) met online in 2009 and dated as they worked as Christmas entertainers for day care centres, nursing homes, retirement centres and holiday parties in their home town.

However, they have been living as Santa and Merry Christmas Claus year-round since 2016, and their mission in life is

to spread the Christmas joy all year around.

Dublin Gazette caught up with the couple and the first thing we wanted to know is what made them decide to change their names?

Merry said: “When you think of Santa and Merry Christmas Claus, it brings joy and people smile. Everybody should have that happiness and joy in their lives every day of the year!”

The reaction they got from their family and friends was mixed. Some thought it was a great idea and others thought they were crazy.

Merry said: “They were so excited,” with Santa

Festive Mr and Mrs Claus were in Dublin to help promote a TK Maxx prizes initiative

adding: “Some thought we were kind of crazy! But that’s part of what we do.”

Christmas is an all year around event for Santa and Merry Christmas Claus, and with the big day just around the corner, we asked what their favourite

thing about Christmas is.

Santa said: “It’s a yearround feeling. It’s when I see everybody from babies to the elderly react, when they see Santa, it puts a smile on their face.

“If they’ve had a bad day and they see Santa, they

smile, and that’s what Christmas is all about, all year around.”

Merry added: “For us, it’s not about the tree or decorations. We believe that Christmas is more about the joy and the spirit of giving than it is about

what lights or tree to have in your home.

“For us, it’s more about the joy that we bring to others, and we try to do that every day of the year.”

It is Santa and Merry’s first time in Dublin and they were eager to try some of the black stuff.

“We just love [Dublin]!

We went to the Guinness Store House and they have a wonderful tour. They taught us the right way to drink Guinness. We got to pour a pint, and we got our pictures on top of the dome,” said Santa.

Thinking of the real Santa Claus, the happy Christmas couple left a special message with Dublin Gazette for all the girls

and boys in Dublin.

Santa said: “Tell the children of Dublin that the real Santa will soon be here, so the children have to be asleep early if they want to get their gifts.”

And finally, what is it like to be married to Santa?

Merry was happy to reveal that, of course: “When you’re married to Santa, every day is Christmas!”

The couple were flown to Dublin by TK Maxx to launch its neverending stocking, with TK Maxx hiding neverending stockings in TK Maxx stores around Ireland throughout November and December, with unique gifts for all the family for an entire year up for grabs.

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

QUIKFLIX FLIX Streaming highlights on the way

Michael D’s dogs meet ‘Santa and Mrs Claus’ PRESIDENT MICHAEL D HIGGINS’ beloved dogs, Bród and Sióda, got a Christmas treat of a lifetime earlier this year. The president’s much adored pooches got the chance to rub paws with the stars of Netflix’s newest festive offering, The Christmas Chronicles.

Santa (played by Kurt Russell) is forced to employ the help of two children to save Christmas, with things doing dastardly wrong along the way in what’s sure to become a festive classic. The Christmas Chronicles is available now to watch on Netflix.

The contestants from this year’s The Apprentice – Camilla is pictured wearing red on the left, and Sian is in the white suit in the centre

Sesame Street adds its first homeless character SESAME STREET introduced a brand-new character last week – Lily, a muppet with multicoloured hair, who reveals that her family have lost their home.

It’s another milestone for the children’s show, which introduced Lily on its Sesame Workshop YouTube channel. Lily (7) reveals that her family don’t have their apartment any more and has been forced to move around.

The introduction of Lily is part of the company’s Sesame Street in Communities initiative, meant as a resource for families and guardians tackling particularly difficultto-discuss issues.

The muppet will feature in new videos, books and interactive activities for children aged two to six.

Be amazed...

Sugar says ‘You’re hired!’

RACHEL D’ARCY

AFTER eight weeks of trials, tribulations, and some questionable business moves, the final of this year’s series of The Apprentice was aired on Sunday.

In the final were swimwear designer Sian and nut milk maker Camilla, who’d defeated tennis coach Sabrina, cleaner Khadija and supplement creator Daniel to reach the final two.

It’s been an eventful season, to say the least. A part of the entertainment value of the show is the sheer insanity of some of the challenges.

This season saw the contestants establish

a landscaping business within 24 hours, creating an entire luxury chocolate line in less than a day and building an entire budget airline.

During the highlyanticipated interview stage of the show, it was difficult to predict who would end up in the final after 12 weeks, with the final five getting a poor showing as they faced some of the UK’s biggest business moguls.

The final two came as a surprise, particularly as Sian got a slating for planning to spend Alan Sugar’s investment on marketing.

Finding herself also slated for the price point of her swimsuits, it came as a shock that she was select-

Perfect for fans of magic this winter, abraKIDabra will wow audiences ...

RACHEL D’ARCY

RTE’S premier children’s magic show, abraKIDabra, is currently airing on RTEjr, and will make it’s way onto the RTE Player so we can soon all get our magic fix.

Catch Joe Daly and friends as they do their best to put on a fabulous magic show as well as teach us some brand-new tricks.

Each episode, Joe will be joined by his new friends, Polly and Snowy, as well as two budding apprentices who learn a new trick and go on to

perform it for the audience.

Shot on location in The Ark, Temple Bar in Summer, Macalla filmed 15 episodes of abraKIDabra which featured almost 200 children from all across Ireland.

The programme encourages children at home to learn and practice tricks taught to them by Joe. While Joe performs in front of an audience in The Ark, the show’s focus is to entertain and amaze the audience at home.

Each episode is broken up into segments such as Quick Trick, Joe’s

Show, Teach a Trick and Put On a Show, promising continuous entertainment while encouraging audiences to take part in the challenges at hand.

Each programme runs for eight minutes, and there’s also additional material online with tutorials to take part in at home.

The series has a fun and contemporary feel with bright colours and animated graphics – perfect for younger audiences.

Catch abraKIDabra on RTEjr, and on the RTE Player soon as well.

ed for the final ahead of the seemingly better prepared Daniel.

Camilla was a wildcard too, given that Sugar and his team of merry businessmen told her she would struggle to expand her nut milk business, currently run out of her kitchen at home, and the potential lack of profitability.

Sunday’s final – a change from the show’s usual Wednesday air date – saw Camilla and Sian go head to head to try to successfully execute a business presentation in front of experts to attempt to successfully illustrate why they deserved the £250,000 investment.

Taking place at London’s City Hall, it was

s o m ew h a t aw kwa rd to watch as they were pressed on what – to some – may have been obvious questions that they failed to answer.

H o w eve r, i t w a s empowering at the same time as the women defended their business with a passion and zest.

This came after former contestants returned to give a helping hand to the final two, aiding them in creating the branding and prototypes for their business in true Apprentice style.

Sian’s SYO Swim came across well, but so did Camilla’s MLK IT nut milk brand.

Whilst the swimsuits didn’t fare the best in the

market research conducted at Charing Cross, and Camilla’s nut milk came out on top, ultimately it was Sian’s reversiblemultiway all-singing, alldancing swimsuits that caught Sugar’s attention.

Sian was named the winner in one of the tightest Apprentice finals in recent years, after her business accumen shone through in the final boardroom showdown of the season, in addition to her fashion expertise.

In all, it was a nerveinducing final given that it was so close between the pair, but was the kind of television that the Apprentice has become known for, and that we come back to every year.

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

WHAT’S BIG IN MUSIC, CINEMA, TV AND BOOKS MORTAL ENGINES | PASSABLE FARE

Tale of mobile, warring cities rumbles along a bit aimlessly AND so, here we are, at the last film review of the year – and what a film to end up with.

Barely a wet weekend out of the gate, and mobilecities-at-war flick Mortal Engines (Cert 12A, 128 mins) is already well on track to be the biggest financial flop of the year.

Released globally in the hopes of being a Christmas blockbuster, instead it’s proving to be a bit of a turkey, as audiences are staying away from this one in droves.

But before we plough ahead with the review, let’s roll backwards a little for some oversight.

Based on a book, the film is a long-time labour of love for co-producer Peter Jackson, who bought the rights yonks ago but is just rolling the film out now.

A big problem is that Mortal Engines isn’t a widely-known IP – and with all due respect, when Hugo Weaving is the biggest name in a big-budget blockbuster, well...

It’s a pity, because despite the film’s issues, Mortal Engines is fine.

Not great, but fine, and there’ve certainly been many worse films released this year.

Let’s jump on board for a look ...

In the future, after devastating conflict has destroyed most Hera Hilmarsdottir impresses as Hera, one of the film’s two main protaganists

 SHANE DILLON

of the world, Humanity’s survivors have fallen into a number of competing camps.

Some cities and settlements are now mobile monstrosities, tearing around on the hunt for smaller cities to consume for resources, with London proving particularly voracious as a predator city.

Captured towns and settlements are soon stripped to nothing and their populations enslaved – devoured, essentially, with London proving particularly effective at the hunt.

Not everyone is mobile; while mobile cities roam The Great Hunting Ground (Britain and Europe), stationary cities lie behind a shield wall far to the east (Asia) .

It’s not long before we meet chief protagonist Hester (a gutsy Hera Hilmarsdottir), a young woman in a captured town, who soon has a

hero’s/rebel’s journey to undertake with some unlikely companions to help her out.

Her ultimate goal is to assassinate a key Londoner, Valentine (Weaving), who has his eyes set on a much bigger prize than the scraps London can chase down on the Hunting Ground ...

The end result is a film that certainly wows with its striking design and often spectacular visuals as it soars from the ground to the air, and into the depths of carnivorous cities, but one which also soon loses its way.

Frankly, much like the chief characters, the film veers all over the place with a clumsy narrative that lacks focus.

There’s almost too much film here – that’s not a reflection or criticism of its running length, but a nod at a plot that wanders around even more than Hester herself, with a lot to take in.

That would be fine if there was an in-built audience familiarity (God knows, the Byzantine shenanigans of the Harry Potter films didn’t harm that franchise’s success) but in this case, few people are familiar with Mortal Engines‘ world-building.

Ultimately the film is a feast for the eyes with some gorgeous visuals, but despite the best efforts of all involved there’s precious little to build on, here, making it good but not great.

Verdict: 5/10

ENTERTAINMENT London – the mobile city – bears down on its prey as it chases down a small town to strip for parts

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

TRAVEL

THESE RURAL RETREATS WILL RELAX ANY GUEST

Country comforts

LEAVE THE CITY’S STREETS BEHIND FOR A DELIGHTFUL CHRISTMAS BREAK

MANY of us are looking to take the stress out of Christmas – and late as it is, it’s not too late to find a great holiday deal at home.

Luckily, we’re spoilt for choice to have many truly first-class hotels and resorts in Ireland, with a Christmas getaway offering the chance for you to get some well-deserved TLC. Whether close to Dublin or over near the other side of the country, here are a couple of delightful destinations to check out, and consider checking into for a lovely, luxurious Christmas break ...

The Lodge at Ashford Castle Escape to the hidden gem that is The Lodge at Ashford Castle, to delight in a truly festive stay, celebrating the best of the magical season indoors and outdoors this Christmas outside Cong, Co Mayo.

Showcasing some of the wonderful country pursuits available in this part of the world, Christmas at the Lodge at Ashford Castle offers options a firsthand look at some of the best of Irish scenery, including falconry, archery, and a jaunt across the countryside with a woodland walk through some of the lush local forests set on the shores of Lough Corrib.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas without an array of scrumptious food, and as a guest you’ll find savoury and sweet deliciousness at Wilde’s, expertly run with the inventive and innovative direction of head chef Jon-

athan Keane.

Enjoy an evening of merry conversation with the crackle of an open fire in the distance and the soft glow of Christmas all around.

Whether it’s yourself, or travelling with a loved one or, indeed, the whole family, guests will be delightfully full as they retire to their rooms for a perfect night’s sleep in the cosy beds at The Lodge, with the whistle of Winter’s chill far in the distance.

Enjoy a one night Christmas stay from now to January 6, including breakfast, dinner in Wilde’s, mulled wine and mince pies on arrival, and a late check-out at 1pm, from €299, with two nights from €369.

Optional extras include trying your hand at the ancient art of falconry with a ‘Hawk Walk’ under the supervision of Ireland’s School of Falconry, upgrades to a suite, and many other additional

(Main, above) Hunter’s Yard at Mount Juliet Estate offers a tranquil destination – replete with some excellent spa treatments and dining

treats.

For further information, see www.thelodgeac. com, telephone 094 954 5400, or email reservations@thelodgeac.com.

Hunter’s Yard at Mount Juliet Estate Closer to home, Co Kilkenny is home to the cosy and comfortable surroundings of Hunter’s Yard, the more casual, laid-back luxury option at Mount Juliet Estate just an hour away from Dublin.

This elegant courtyard, just five minutes’ walk from the Manor House, is home to the bright and spacious rooms of the Hunter’s Yard.

A tranquil hideaway adjacent to the Jack Nicklaus signature-designed golf course, Hunter’s Yard

is only a few paces from Mount Juliet Spa with its excellent range of restorative treatments, and is home to the tempting menus of The Hound

at Hunter’s Yard, which offers all-day dining.

With plenty of fresh country air to invigorate and exquisite gardens and majestic woodlands

across Mount Juliet Estate to explore, with their variety of native and exotic trees, you could just as easily curl up with a good book or read the papers by

the fire in the manor house – this is your time to relax.

A two-night stay in Hunter’s Yard from December 27 to January 2, with breakfast each morning, a complimentary bottle of prosecco on arrival, free parking and complimentary WiFi, is available for €445, based on two people sharing.

Enjoy a perfect Irish country Twixmas at Hunter’s Yard – a fresh take on Mount Juliet’s rich heritage of hospitality and make the time between Christmas and the New Year even more memorable this year.

For further information, see www.mountjuliet.ie, telephone 056 777 3010, or email reservations@ mountjuliet.ie.

(Left, above) Staff at The Lodge at Ashford Castle are experts at soothing away city stresses – and a break out by the countryside promises to be just the thing to relax, unwind – and have a delicious break far from the hustle and bustle of the city

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Andrea Smith

Liz Lyons and Rick O Shea. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Claire Mullane

Delighted with Les Mis

C

AMERON Mackintosh’s acclaimed Broadway production of Boublil and Schonberg’s beloved musical, Les Miserables,had its offical opening night at Bord Gais Energy Theatre as part of a new UK and Ireland tour.

This revolutionary new staging has scenery

Jim Sheridan

inspired by the paintings of classic novelist Victor Hugo, and has been seen in North America, South America, Korea, Japan, Canada, Australia, Spain, France, Manila, Singapore, Dubai and Broadway.

Theatre and musical fans were out in force, with many well-known faces in attendance.

Maya Anton and Saoirse Anton

Trish Rowley and Eddie Rowley

Megan O Neill

Colette Gallagher,Martina Osbourne and Elaine Dillon

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS I N F O R M AT I O N Heritage House, Dundrum, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240 Dublin Gazette Newspapers publishes four weekly quality free titles, covering the latest news, sport, entertainment and lifestyle from the four local authority areas of Dublin

TELLING A TALE AS OLD AS TIME ...

C O N TA C T S Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@dublingazette.com Group Editor: Patrick Finnegan pfinnegan@dublingazette.com Deputy Group Editor: Shane Dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile jmaile@dublingazette.com Picture Editor: Aisling Conway aconway@dublingazette.com Travel Editor: Sylvia Pownall spownall@dublingazette.com Advertising Sales:

01 - 6010240 sales@dublingazette.com

FIND US ON

www.dublingazette.com Dublin Gazette Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

MONSTROUSLY ENTERTAINING: A young Beast (James Brophy) and Belle (Kitty Thornton) helped set the mood at Dundrum Town Centre recently where they helped to promote The Mill Theatre’s Beauty and The Beast panto, which is currently running until January 6.

Written and directed by Geoff O’Keeffe, the classic tale tells of unrequited love, featuring Evelyn Shaw as Belle, Shane Quigley as The Beast and Matthew O’Brien as the arrogant Gaston, with Garry Mountaine as Granny Potts. The panto’s producers promise spectacular songs, dance routines and magical special effects.

Tickets for the hour-long panto are priced at €14, or €55 for a family. For further information about Beauty and the Beast, see www.milltheatre.ie.

WELCOMING THE NEW Jive along to all the YEAR – IN FEBRUARY Dance Hall days’ hits THE annual Chinese New Year Festival will see the Year of the Pig welcomed in next February.

TA two-week programme of CNY events will run from February 1-17, marking the 12th edition of the popular festival, which this year celebrates the final Zodiac animal: the pig.

Included on the programme are a variety of talks, performances, film and music, and a multitude of family-friendly events that invites all ages to take part in the cul-

tural celebration.

Some festival highlights include the Spring Festival fair on February 9-10, inspired by traditional Chinese temple fairs; and the Spring Festival Gala, which will take place on February 16 at the National Convention Centre, featuring dance, music, acrobatics and Peking Opera.

For tickets and further information on what promises to be a great festival, see dublinchinesenewyear.com.

THE Rock ‘n’ Roll years and Dance Hall days are coming back to Dublin early next year, with a brand-new show featuring George Jones, Clubsound and four fantastic singers, promising to transport audiences back to the nostalgic good old days and incredible music and artistes of the 1950s and 1960s.

Combining evocative love ballads with the greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll hit songs of

the era, this show will carry the audience back to a time when dance halls were full of the sounds of The Four Seasons, Ruby Murray, Bobby Darin, Elvis, and many, many more.

With more than 40 classic songs, this is a show not to be missed at The Pavilion Theatre in Dun Laoghaire, so mark the date (Thursday, April 4) in your diary. For tickets, see visit www.paviliontheatre.ie.

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

DIARY

SOME OF THE LATEST EVENTS TAKING PLACE IN DUBLIN

A night with Dickie THE legendary singer Dickie Rock will perform at the Red Cow Moran Hotel this Christmas Season for one night only on Friday, December 21.

One of Ireland’s most successful singers, Dickie has been entertaining audiences for more than 50 years.

He has recorded a great many singles and albums, made hundreds of TV appearances, has performed thousands of live shows and tours the UK and USA regularly.

Join Dickie and his band for a wonderful night of entertainment, and prepare to be wowed by all

the old favourites, including Candy Store, Every step of the way, Yours, a n d m a ny more.

Tickets are available from Eventbrite, with the show tickets costing €30; dinner and show priced

at €59, with a show and stay offer for €99 available from redcowmoranhotel.com.

DOG OF HAPPY CHRISTMAS, READERS! THE WEEK

DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Meet Shep, a beautiful and energetic two-year-old Collie-cross which is looking for active owners. He has plenty of personality and will insist on cuddles and attention once he gets to know you. Like most Collies, Shep has a super brain and loves different games and doggie puzzles.

He will make a great Agility dog, as he is very active and likes challenges. Shep is not too sure how to behave around other dogs, so he is best suited to a single-pet home. He will make a wonderful pet for someone interested in reward-based training and who’d like to be involved in dog sports and activities.

If you have room in your heart and home for Shep then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. (Remember: Always have your dog on a lead when in public.)

FROM everyone here at Dublin Gazette Newspapers – your best local newspaper – we’d like to wish all our readers a Merry Christmas, and give an early nod to a Happy New Year!

Thank you for your continued support this year, and don’t worry

– although we’re taking a little time off for our own Christmas

WIN!

break, we won’t be over-indulging on turkey sandwiches and boxes of Quality Street for too long, and you’ll find another great, brandnew Gazette out next Thursday, December 27.

So, be sure to pick us up then – and until then, Happy Christmas!

A DUBLIN

GAA

BOXSET

ALL HAIL THE 1975 Yet So Unaware of It, and their most recent release that soared to the top of album charts globally.

A Brief Inquiry into Online Relationships features the hits, It’s Not Living If It’s Not With You, and Give Yourself A Try, and has appeared on a number of Top Albums of 2018 lists.

On the night, The 1975

will be supported by London-based musician No Rome and the alternative outfit, Pale Waves.

Limited tickets for The 1975 are available now from Ticketmaster, priced from €35-€41 excluding booking fee.

Under 16s must be a c c o m p a n i e d by a n adult, and the standing area is strictly over-14s.

Water fun spectacle!

NOW in its seventh year, New Year’s Festival Dublin (NYF Dublin) has announced ticket details for the spectacular Liffey Lights Midnight Moment event taking place on New Year’s Eve at the Custom House. The dazzling lighting specta-

cle will be performed against the backdrop of the Custom House and features a thrilling choreography of lasers and aqua beams. For full details on what promises to be a night to remember, and ticket info, see www.NYFDublin.com.

Ebuzz.ie, Beaumex Entertainment and Sideline Productions have just released new GAA boxsets featuring the some of the best All-Ireland wins over the years including Dublin. The Dublin boxset includes 5 matches from 1974 to 1983.

Now close to 4000 minutes of RTE All-Ireland final broadcasts covering nearly 50 matches are on

sale in 6 individual exclusive DVD gift box-sets.

For more All Ireland finals dating back to 1961 and to order the full range of the new GAA box sets online - visit www.ebuzz.ie Five lucky winners will win a Dublin GAA boxset which includes the five iconic matches from back in the day.

To be in with a chance of winning one of the four boxsets up for grabs, answer the following question:

 Q: When does the



Dublin boxset date back to?

A – 1974 to 1983 B – 1943 to 1962 C – 1985 to 1992



FOLLOWING the release of their latest record, A Brief Inquiry into Online Relationships, The 1975 will play Dublin’s 3Arena on January 10.

The Mancunian quartet will play hits from their acclaimed debut record, The 1975; their sophomore follow-up, I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful



TO ENTER: Email competitions@dublingazette.com with your full name, phone number and the answer to the question by December 27. Full terms and conditions are available from our website at https://dublingazette.com/whats-on/competition/competition-terms-conditions.

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

GOINGOUTOUT

REFLECTIONS ON ALTERED LIVES

WITH SPIES

PICKWEEK OF THE

DECEMBER 24-25

Santa Claus @ Homes everywhere, FREE Not strictly a music event, per se – although we hear there are jingles and sleigh bells involved, so there’s your tenuous music link, folks – but there’s no doubt that Mr Claus is having a huge impact on the city’s music scene this week. With gigs everywhere cancelled, Santa’s definitely one of the two headliner events this week ...

DECEMBER 20 (THURSDAY) Glen Hansard @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Frontman of The Frames and star of the movie Once, Glen Hansard has a lot of strings to his musical bow, and he’ll explore them all in his annual Christmas show at Vicar Street.

Hudson Taylor @ Whelan’s, SOLD OUT Ryan O’Shaughnessy @ The Grand Social, €12 Chief Keegan @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €5

DECEMBER 21 (FRIDAY) Damien Dempsey @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Hudson Taylor @ Whelan’s, SOLD OUT I Draw Slow @ The Grand Social, €15 Attention Bebe @ The Sugar Club, SOLD OUT The best comedy cover band ever to grace the city? Quite possibly. Attention Bebe’s hilarious, riotous exploration of 90s pop gets its Christmas outing.

The Ocelots @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €12

DECEMBER 22 (SATURDAY) Hudson Taylor @ Whelan’s, €25 Damien Dempsey @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Brian Deady @ The Sugar Club, €17 Smash Hits @ The Academy, €23 Pinhole + Elaine Malone @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €7

DECEMBER 23 (SUNDAY) King Bones @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €12 Damien Dempsey @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT

DECEMBER 24-25 You-know-what...

DECEMBER 26 (WEDNESDAY) Made Of Stone @ Whelan’s, €15

SOMETIMES you love a band, and then they simply disappear.

When you’re inclined to an affection towards a local act who even founded their own little scene through a label (Trout Records), and stoked it with their own boisterous, guitar-mashing live shows, these kind of ‘fade aways’ seems to happen all too often.

Sometimes, like with Spies in 2018, the band later returns in a blaze of glory.

The return of this particular fiery band whose early EPs set tongues wagging could hardly be more well-timed.

Dublin’s rock scene is on quite a high, recently prompting a feature in NME which waxed lyrical about the strength of the city’s output, hyping the likes of Girl Band, Fontaines D.C., The Murder Capital and Silverbacks.

With the return of

 JAMES HENDICOTT

Spies accompanied by a long overdue debut album in Constancy (the band formed way back in 2011), there’s a marked change in style and substance.

There are still plenty of those guitars, but gone are their overpowering domination, with elements of synth work and even a mellow album-closing ballad adding depth to Spies’ palette.

“We wanted to work on an album properly, so we took a step back from gigging. When the album was complete, we couldn’t see the wood for the trees,” vocalist Michael Broderick explains.

“We weren’t really sure how good it was, so we decided to let it rest.”

When the band finally

returned to the stage with a new single in April of this year, it had been nearly two years since their last show.

“We started thinking about the keyboards and stuff when we finished producing our last EP, at The Meadow,” Broderick says of the stylistic change prevalent on the release, which follows three earlier short-form records.

“We saw what we could do with all the equipment they had down there.

“The new album is about coping with change.

It’s about the inevitability of it in life, about how you can’t control your environment, so you have a really limited amount of control about how things change around you.

“I was writing it when I was going through a lot of change in a relationship that goes all the way back to my adolescence.

“It wasn’t actually

about the flux in the band, but I guess it could be seen that way, too. I hope people can listen to it and form their own thoughts on what it means to them.

“One of our closest friends is Morgan from [fellow breakthrough Irish act] Saint Sister, and we spent a lot of time talking about what our new music meant to us, and how to present it.

“The scene is really phenomenal at the moment. Some of the albums out this year in Ireland are incredible,” he says.

The next big step for Spies, who are already well established in Ireland, is to look further afield.

That’s challenging, especially for what’s still an independent band.

“It definitely spreads the word, doing shows abroad,” Broderick says of the challenge. “It’s difficult to fund, though.

“At the moment, we track our plays and most are in Ireland. When you travel, you have to play those shows to six people, and let things build over time, generate some talk.

“It’s very pricey when you don’t have any backing. A support tour would be the ideal.”

For their growing local fan base, though, they key thing is Spies are back on stage after a long, contemplative delay. They’re different, but the change is also a sign of growth, resulting in some soulful depth.

Spies’ latest record, Constancy, is out now, on record and digitally

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25

FOOD FOR THE SOUL AND BODY

ENTERTAINMENT

Restaurant cooks up help worth €6,500 for homeless people REBECCA RYAN

A VERY generous Dublin restaurant has donated their entire day’s takings to a homeless charity.

Wishbone donated the proceeds of their sales on December 3 to Inner City Helping Homeless (ICHH), handing over a cheque for €6,500 to the charity on Monday.

It is the second year in a row the Montague Street restaurant ran the initiative, raising even more money this year.

Owner James Stimpson told Dublin Gazette they were delighted with how it went.

He said: “It was great.

It was our second year doing it; last year we made €5,000, so I wanted to better that.

“We also had the ICHH van outside and collected [toy-filled] shoeboxes and donations of toys.

“It was brilliant – everybody went out of their way. Everybody was buying an extra can of coke or dessert because they knew that all the money was going to go to charity.

“It’s really nice. It’s a real feel-good factor.”

James used to travel on the train from Malahide into town for work and his heartstrings were

VEGAN and ayurvedic chef and author Keith Squires has shared his Multi-Coloured No Cook Vegan Gluten-Free Christmas Pudding recipe with Dublin Gazette.

Chef Keith is based in the stunning Snowdonia mountains, and his new book, Cooking With Love, is full of vegetarian and vegan recipes.

He’s turned his skills to developing some vegan-friendly Christmas recipes as well.

HAPPY TO HELP: Wishbone’s David Clarke, Michelle Hetherington and James Stimpson with the cheque for €6,500 to present to help the homeless

pulled when he saw see homeless people on the street every day. It was then that he decided he wanted to do something to help.

He said: “I live in Malahide and I used to get the train to Pearse. I’d walk from Pearse to Wishbone and I’d see first-hand all the homeless people.

“I’d see them first thing in the morning waking up on the streets and then I’d leave the restaurant at 11pm and I’d see them, and it would break your heart.

“Then I saw that this charity [ICHH] that were just amazing. They were bringing our soup, sand-

w i c h e s, coffees a n d everything [to donate to homeless people] so it was a nobrainer.”

James said that they will continue to support ICHH every Christmas. They are also opening up two more restaurants in the new year, one in Dorset Street and one in Kilkenny, and the restaurants will continue this generosity and raise funds for the local charities in the areas.

“Wherever we are, we will do something for local charity,” said James.

He is also hoping that other businesses will be encouraged and follow suit. “It would be amazing if other restaurants followed trend or even donated a day’s coffee sales,” added James.

Second Elephant and Castle opens ELEPHANT and Castle have opened their second location in Dublin, at Rathmines, set at the corner of Rathmines Road and Castlewood Avenue..

The Irish restaurant has been in Temple Bar since 1989 and the new 110-seater location opened in Rathmines last week. The menu will feature the same great dishes that make Elephant & Castle a firm favourite, from fluffy omelettes and buttermilk pancakes to caesar salads, juicy burgers and crispy spicy wings.

Early 2019 will see a further expansion in Dublin, when Elephant & Castle will march its way into Monkstown village.

‘No-cook Christmas pudding’ Ingredients • 100g sultanas • 100g dates, chopped • 100g dried figs, chopped • 150ml apple juice • Quarter tsp ground nutmeg • 1tsp mixed spice • 1tsp cinnamon • 100g cashews • 100g coconut oil • 100g maple syrup Preparation: • Add the juice to the dried fruit and add the spices. Mix well and soak for at least two hours.

• Place the cashews, coconut oil and syrup in a Vitamix or Nutribullet-type blender. Add 100g of the soaked dried fruit and blend to a puree.

• Stir in to the soaked fruit and mix well. Place into a pudding bowl and freeze overnight.

TOPPINGS ‘Red as a Beetroot Topping’ Ingredients • 80g raw beetroot, peeled and sliced thinly • 80g coconut oil • 80g 100% fruit raspberry jam • 80g cashews Preparation: • Put the sliced raw beetroot,

coconut oil, sugar-free jam and cashews in a blender. It needs to be a strong one like a Ninja or NutriBullet. Grind to a smooth paste.

‘Green as Grass Topping’ Ingredients • 80g raw spinach • 80g coconut oil • 1 kiwi • 50g agave syrup • 80g cashews Preparation: • Put the spinach, kiwi, coconut oil, agave syrup and cashews in a blender. It needs to be a strong one like a Ninja or NutriBullet. Grind to a smooth paste.

‘Orange Topping’ Ingredients • 80g raw carrot, peeled and sliced thinly • 80g coconut oil • 80g 100% fruit apricot jam • 80g cashews Preparation: • Put the sliced raw carrot, coconut oil, sugar-free jam and cashews in a blender. It needs to be a strong one like a Ninja or NutriBullet. Grind to a smooth paste.

‘Snow White Topping’ Ingredients • 30g desiccated coconut • 80g coconut oil • 3tbsp almond milk • 50g agave syrup • 80g cashews Preparation: • Put the desiccated coconut, almond milk, coconut oil, agave syrup and cashews in a blender.

It needs to be a strong one like a Ninja or NutriBullet. Grind to a smooth paste.

26 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

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MONSOON EYEMASK €13

Gym + Coffee Gift Kit €100 ACCESSORIZE REVERSIBLE SEQUIN SLIPPER BOOT €29.90

My Shining Armour Faux Fur Crimson Heart Pom Pom Keyring €32

diffusion.ie Gold Hawk Pewter Velvet Jacket €450

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

FRESH IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME AND WARDROBE BLOSS THE ETHICAL SILK CO.TEAL HANDPRINTED MULBERRY SILK ROBE €195 AND EYE MASK €30

HOME & STYLE

BeautyBITS

Vichy introduces new Dercos nutrients range VICHY is delighted to introduce DERCOS Nutrients range to its haircare franchise. DERCOS researchers have discovered that

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HAVE YOURSELF A COSY LITTLE

CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS IS the cosiest time of the year, without a doubt. You have no excuse not to spend the day - or week - in your pyjamas, curled up with a cup of your favourite hot drink and watching those feel good movies.

We’ve put together a selection of some of our favourite treats on offer this holiday season to ensure you have the most comfortable Christmas imaginable, or to inspire you to give the gift of cosy on December 25.

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28 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

MOTORS

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT

Renegade Jeep is an impressive new SUV

DECLAN GLYNN

THE new Jeep Renegade marks a series of firsts in the company’s history. The Renegade is Jeep’s first entry into the expanding and lucrative small SUV segment.

It is also the first FIAT Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) vehicle to be jointly developed by Italian and Ameri-can engineers and the first Jeep to be built in Europe but sold in the USA and across Europe too.

Built in Italy at the rejuvenated SATA plant in Melfi, the Renegade is sold in 100 markets globally and designers were challenged to come up with a look that would symbolise Jeep’s American heritage, while appealing to youthful and adventurous car buyers.

What they came up with was a look that is both rugged and tough, thanks to the brand’s classic sevenslot front grille, round headlamps and trapezoidal wheel-arch styling cues, but also fresh, unaggressive and utterly distinctive.

Equipment has been designed to boost onboard comfort. Advanced technology includes the intuitive Uconnect touchscreen for infotainment, with a choice between 5and 8.4-inch screens.

From the iconic sevenslot front grille to its strong stance, there is no denying that the Renegade is a proud member of the famous Jeep family.

X-icon rear lights enable the Renegade to be easily identified from afar, while strong Jeep-brand detailing inside the cabin is truly unique.

Three trim levels are available – Sport, Longitude and, range-topping Limited, while engine choices consist of 1.4-litre Turbo Multi-ai’ (140bhp)

and 1.6-litre E-torQ (110bhp) petrol units, and 1.6-litre (95 & 120bhp) or 2.0-litre (140bhp) M-jet diesel power-plants.

Transmission choices include a six-speed manual (2WD or 4WD), a dualclutch six-speed automatic (2WD only) and a sleek nine-speed automatic mated to Jeep’s renowned 4WD drivetrain.

On test this week was a new Jeep Renegade Limited 1.4-litre petrol, 2WD 6-speed manual finished in Granite Crystal metallic paint, with contrasting bright exterior mirror casings, roof rails and exhaust tips for a premium look.

S t a n d a rd fe a t u re s include 18” alloy wheels, 7” TFT high-definition driver information digital cluster dis-play, Polar Plunge grey leather upholstery with grey stitching and dark chrome interior inserts (black leather is also available).

Features It also features heated seats, heated multifunction leather steering wheel, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning system, forward collision warning-plus system, air-conditioning and an electric parking brake, along with a whole host of comfort, safety and technology features to make every journey a pleasure.

Wi t h 1 4 0 b h p a n d 230Nm of torque available from the 1.4-litre petrol engine, swift performance is available when called upon.

The obligatory 0-100km/h sprint can be completed in just 10.9-seconds, on its way to a top speed (where permitted) of 180km/h.

Fuel consumption as low as 6.0l/100km is achiev-

Skoda ready to release the SCALA SKODA Ireland have revealed further details of the eagerly antici‑ pated SCALA compact hatchback, which replaces the previous RAPID Spaceback.

The SCALA arrives in Ireland next June and is longer, wider, higher and more spacious than the Rapid it replaces.

At first glance, the commanding exterior exudes confidence with clearly defined surfaces and alloy wheels up to18” in size which have been aerodynamically opti‑ mised to make the car more streamline.

New sculptural shapes, dynamic features and sharp lines lend the vehicle a dominant and authentic appearance.

The SCALA also fea‑ tures LED headlights and tail lights as standard with full‑LED versions available as an option, which for the first time, come with dynamic rear indicator signals.

On the inside, the modern look continues with the focal point being the infotainment display which measures up to 9.2” in size, making it

This new Jeep SUV features a host of attractive features, making it a compelling car for many reasons

able on a combined driving cycle, with emissions of 140g/km leading to an annual road tax of €280.

Opt for a diesel engine in 2WD guise and the annual road tax will drop to just €200.

I found my test car to be very solid and reassuring on a variety of road surfaces, while build quality is faultless throughout.

Excellent road manners, a fun driving experience and confident composure while cornering makes the Renegade a very easy SUV to live with and is sure to

appeal to drivers looking for an engaging, stylish and distinctive small SUV. Cabin space is yet another area that impresses, with ample head and legroom available thanks to the upright stance of the Renegade. Boot space

with the rear seats in place is a generous 351-litres, but this can be greatly increased by dropping the split-folding rear seat backs.

The new Jeep Renegade comes complete with a three-year, parts and

FACT BOX

1) Updated, compact SUV 2) 2WD or 4WD available 3) Manual or automatic 4) Petrol or diesel 5) Priced from €21,950 (ex-works)

labour warranty with roadside assistance, three-year paint defect warranty and an eight-year anti-perforation warranty for total peace of mind motoring.

Prices start at just €21,950 (ex-works) for the Sport model, €25,800 in Longitude specification, while my test car specification is priced from just €28,300 (ex-works) and offers excellent value for money.

For exploring new trails or heading out on the town, the new Jeep Renegade is ready, willing and able

the largest screen in its class.

The interior is also influenced by the VISION RS concept and combines ergonom‑ ics, emotiveness and spaciousness.

In addition, the SCALA will come comes as standard with a host of familiar simply clever features in‑cluding the umbrella in the driver’s door, the ice scraper in the fuel filler flap and the easy‑open cup holder.

Final pricing and specs will be confirmed in March.

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!

CODEWORDS

You could advertise here

PUZZLES

SUDOKU EASY

MODERATE

SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK BACK NEXT WEEK FOR THE SOLUTIONS TO THIS WEEK’S PUZZLES

WORD SEARCH

HOW TO SOLVE Codewords are like crossword puzzles - but have no clues! Instead, every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number, the same number representing the same letter throughout the puzzle.

All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number!

To start you off, we reveal the codes for two or three letters.

As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid.

Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

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FIND THE HIDDEN WORDS blewit

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To advertise here please contact sales@dublingazette.com or call 01 6010240

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 20 December 2018

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32 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 20 December 2018

20 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 33

RUGBY P36

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

THE GOAL MILE: SOCCER: NOW in its 36th year, the Goal Christmas Mile, in aid of the global charity GOAL, has seen more than 275,000 runners take part in their Christmas day events. The concept is simple: turn up at one of dozens of events around the country, make a donation towards the charity, run your mile and make your family photo a little different this year.



GAZETTE

TENNIS P38

PAGE 35

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS BASKETBALL | THREE-WAY TIE AT TOP OF MEN’S SUPERLEAGUE

Killeen ices Neptune for crucial win  sport@dublingazette.com

TEMPLEOGUE pulled a win out of the fire against C and S Neptune on Saturday evening at Oblate Hall, running out 95-92 point winners after overtime in the men’s Super League.

Huge displays from Lehmon Colbert and Cian Heaphy saw Neptune take the lead down the stretch in regulation, before a Lorcan Murphy score tied the game up on the full-time buzzer at 85 points each.

Big scores from Colbert followed to put Neptune ahead in overtime but a crucial steal by Puff Summers saw him then head to the free throw line where he edged the hosts ahead.

Then it was Templeogue’s Jason Killeen who had ice in his veins as he ensured his side’s victory from the line.

Speaking afterwards, Killeen stated: “It feels absolutely fantastic to get that win.

“We knew they were a good side who were coming in on a big run and

they’re a bunch of young guys who don’t lack any confidence and have Lehmon in the middle to steady the ship. We knew what we were up against and they proved us right - it was a fantastic game.”

Over in UCD, meanwhile, Marian edged their way up the table as they took home a 93-78 point win over Griffith College Swords Thunder.

Despite the large crowd being wowed by the skill of Swords’ Elijah Mays, his 36-point contribution wasn’t enough for the visitors on the night.

“I don’t think the performance was great, but the result was really good,” reflected UCD’s Ioannis Liapakis afterwards.

“We knew it was going to be really difficult to stop Swords’ American, Elijah, as he’s averaging 30-35 points a game. Our goal was to stop everybody else.

“We did a good job at points, but unfortunately, between the third and the fourth quarter we fell asleep three

Templeogue’s Jason Killeen. Picture: Martin Doherty

of four times in our defence and they had some easy three point shots which kept them in the game and made it difficult.”

Pyrobel Killester bounced back from a 35-46 point deficit at half time to see out an 84-71 point win over DCU Saints in Clontarf.

Twenty-seven points from Royce

Williams helped his side overcome a determined Saints, whose stand out performer was Mike Bonaparte, finishing the game with 31 points.

The upshot of the weekend’s results sees Templeogue top ot the table alongside Belfast Star and Killester on 21 points with Tralee three points back but with a game in hand.

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

34 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 20 December 2018

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

1

BALLINTEER ST JOHN’S LOTTO results for December 13. Lotto A Numbers 1, 10, 11 and 12. No winner; Lotto B numbers 5, 15, 23 and 24. Next Thursday’s jackpots are €10,000 and €1,400. Winner of €100 Laura Duffy, €50 Colette Clabby and Jamie Fletcher. Joker Consolation Noel Reid. Joker next Thurs €525.

Usual lotto on next Thursday, December 20.

Lotto breaks then until Thursday, January 3. BSJ Bingo breaks for two weeks and resumes Monday, January 7.

Over 400 young children attended our Christmas party and a great time was had by all. Well done to all the parents who turned up despite the best efforts of Storm Deirdre. Thanks to our excellent team for all the work and the outstanding grottos for Santa agus Daidí na Nollag. Christmas Hampers were won by Reuben Bartelink and Colette Fanning in the raffle.

Congratulations to all our Player of the year winners. Senior hurling - Brian Smith, Junior A hurling - Dave Harney, Junior B hurling Luke Ennis, Under 21 hurling - Paddy O’Reilly, Player of the Match Katie Minor Hurling - Tom Aherne . Senior footMurray and ball - Sam Tully,Junior A football - Matthew Captain Sarah O’Sullivan,Junior B football - Conor Carroll, Junior Murphy after C football - Corey Murphy, Under 21 football - LaClontarf’s dies IFC win..

Aaron Bradshaw, Minor football A - Donncha Carey, Minor football B - Louis Lynch, .Picture: SeniorGAApics. com Camogie - Derbhla Nolan, Junior Camogie - Róisín NicUileagóid, Junior Camogie - Ashling Coffey, Minor Camogie - Ciara McCarthy. Ladies Football - Orla Nolan, Ladies Minor Football - Niamh Casey.

Saturday evening, we have the postponed Parish Cup competition on the AWP starting at 1pm.

Open to registered players over 18. Area player managers Colm O Donnell, Feargal Duffy, Aidan Field and Frankie Ward and Dermot Kennedy. for further info or contact Bainisteoir Kieran Duffy 0868519542.

Team mentors now in training for the Annual St Stephens morning games on the AWP. Hurling Match at 11:00am , Football at 11:30. Followed by refreshments with J.J. in Áras Na nÓg.a custom going back over 30 years.

Condolences to Shane Casserley and family on the death of his father Basil.

Wishing all our players, mentors, members and supporters and sponsors a peaceful Christmas and a happy New Year.

SWIMMING: SUPERB SERIES OF IRISH SHORT COURSE RESULTS

Hyland and Coyne raise bar in China

Tallaght pair produce a string of lifetime bests in Huangzhou at the world short course championships as performance director Rudd hails the ability of Ireland’s team to push new boundaries  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

TALLAGHT’S Brendan Hyland set two new Irish butterfly records as the Irish team raised the bar across the board at the World Short Course Swimming Championships in Huangzhou, China last week.

Another Tallaght native, Niamh Coyne, set two personal bests in her first-ever senior international meet, while UCD’s Darragh Greene also set a new Irish record in the 200m breaststroke.

In addition, Hyland and Greene were part of the 4x100m relay team that knocked an astonishing 18 seconds off the previous Irish record, and set a new Irish record in the 4x50m medley.

The Irish Championships finished up a week earlier with 18 new records set and the fivestrong team in China were quick to add to the momentum.

Hyland was first out of the blocks on day one, setting a new Irish record of 1:53.19 in the heats of the 200m butterfly, knocking three places off his previous record.

That time left Hyland tenth in the world overall but, with only the top eight qualifying, he narrowly missed out on a place in the final and a chance to break the record once more.

The following day saw Hyland repeat the trick in the 100m butterfly, finishing in 51.54 to carve 0.66 off Conor Brines’ 2016 record but, despite winning his heat, he again missed out on the final.

‘I was pretty excited,” Hyland said after setting the 200m record.

“I knew I was doing well as I could see a lot of clear water around me, I knew it would be a fast time so when I saw 1:53.1 I was very happy.

“It’s pretty cool – tenth in the world sounds nice. Growing up

swimming in Dublin my whole life, to be tenth in the world, to think of where I’ve come from, it’s really good.

“

To come out of a World Championship with a 93% lifetime best strike rate and a 100% conversion rate from heat to semi to final is outstanding.

KILMACUD CROKES WELL done to all those young Crokes football players from the U-12, U-13, U-14 and U-15 age groups who received medals they had won during the year at a presentation in the club on Sunday.

Medals were presented by players and management of the Crokes senior football squad.

Congratulations to the 15 Crokes men who have won Dublin Bus Dub Stars for their performances this year in Football and

”

“It’s given me confidence and hopefully I can push on from here.”

Longford native Greene, who swims out of UCD, set personal bests in both the 100m and 200m

Hurling!

Well done also to Paul Mannion who was named Footballer of the year.

Details of the Club Gala ball to be held in February 2019 Saturday the 9th have been released.

Check the club website,Facebook and email for more details.

The club executive would like to wish all our members and families a safe and peacful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Brendan Hyland produced a series of lifetime bests in China. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

breaststroke.

His 200m heat time of 2:07.60 was three seconds better than his previous best, and bettered Andrew Bree’s 11-year-old Irish record by .35 of a second.

Hyland and Greene were part of the four-man medley team, with Conor Ferguson and Shane Ryan, to set an Irish record of 1:35.05, knocking .58 off the time set at last year’s European Championships.

The same foursome regrouped on day four for the 4x100m relay and smashed the previous Irish record, set in 1991, by 18 seconds, setting a time of 3:27.23.

“This was our second time racing together at a major championship, so just to get the experience is what we need heading into the Summer at World Championships, where we hope to qualify the relay for Tokyo 2020.”

Coyne, fresh from her silver medal performance in the 100m breaststroke at the World Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires in October, showed good progress in her first senior international meet.

The 17-year-old set personal bests of 31.42 in the 50m breaststroke on day one, 1:07.19 in the 100m breaststroke on day four and 2:26.64 in the 200m on day five, bettering her previous best by three seconds.

Elsewhere on the Irish team, Shane Ryan made history as he claimed Ireland’s first-ever World Championship medal as he took bronze in the 50m backstroke.

The 24-year-old’s time of 22.76 is the ninth-best time ever recorded in a World Championships event.

“I don’t think that we could have expected much more from this group of athletes,” said National Performance Director John Rudd.

“To come out of a World Championships with a 93% lifetime best strike rate and a 100% conversion rate from heat to semi to final is outstanding.”

20 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 35

GOAL MILE: CHRISTMAS DAY EVENT SET FOR 36TH EDITION

LOI SHORTS

FAI’s VdeP donation FAI CEO John Delaney along with Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team manager Colin Bell were on hand to present Ireland bags filled with jerseys, footballs, scarfs and other merchandise to Liam Casey, East Region President, St Vincent De Paul, at the St Vincent De Paul depot on Sean McDermott Street, Dublin.

The gifts are part of an annual Christmas donation for families in need. They are pictured with volunteers and helpers, at the St Vincent De Paul depot on Sean McDermott Street.

Picture: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

PAT’S POWERED BY MIELE

Members of Lucan Harriers enjoying the Goal Mile last year

Over 275,000 all set for annual Goal Mile  JAMES HENDICOTT

HOWEVER you envisage your Christmas morning going, your plans might not have included getting out and running a mile in a park somewhere in the city.

For an increasing number of people, though, this is exactly the plan.

Now in its 36th year, the Goal Christmas Mile, in aid of the global chari t y G OA L , h a s se e n more than 275,000 runners take part in their Christmas day events.

The charity work across emergency response, child protection, health and livelihood.

The concept is simple: turn up at one of dozens of events around the country, make a donation towards the charity, run your mile, and make your family photo a little different this year. It’s not

competitive, and you can set off at any time that the Goal Mile remains open.

The event has become substantial enough that runners taking part over the years have now covered the equivalent of a run to the moon, roughly 400 million metres of Christmas day jogging.

A host of Dublin events include some nice opportunities to explore some of the city’s best sporting facilities. Both the Morton Athletics Stadium and the National Indoor Arena are amongst the hosts.

There are also events in Irishtown Stadium, Herbert Park, Eamonn Ceannt Park, at the Pope’s Cross in Phoenix Park, at Stradbrook and Suttonians rugby clubs, and at Lucan Harriers and Tallaght Athletics Clubs.

The mile has its origins in a 1982 event hosted by the late Noel Carroll in Phoenix Park. The number of national locations is expected to be around 130 this year.

The mile also has its own little piece of Irish athletics history, with the Irish national record for the 4 x 1 mile record set in a fundraiser for the event back in 1985.

Middle distance runners Eamonn Coghlan, Marcus O’Sullivan, Frank O’Mara and Ray Flynn set a time of 15:49:08, which still stands today.

“Everyone can go at their own pace – walking or jogging – you don’t have to be sporty or fit,” the charity say of the event.

“Children are not just having fun but also learning about the importance of helping others and the plight of children in other

parts of the world affected by conflict, hunger, and disease. “ G e t t i n g i nvo l ve d couldn’t be easier. No need to register. Or collect donations in advance. Just turn up on the day and give what you can to GOAL. “Every mile really does count! It’s thanks to GOAL Mile organis-

ers and participants like you that millions of euro have been raised to support GOAL’s work in the developing world over the past three and a half decades. And countless lives have been saved and improved.”

Learn more by visiting Goal’s website at www.goalglobal.org and searching ‘goal mile’.

ST PATRICK’S Athletic’s bid to break back into Europe continues with the addition of strikers Brandon Miele from Shamrock Rovers and Mikey Drennan from Sligo Rovers.

The Saints parted company with Liam Buckley following a disappointing run last season and brought in former Bray Wanderers boss Harry Kenny.

Under Kenny, the Athletic will train during the days in a bid to keep pace with the likes of Shamrock Rovers, Dundalk and Cork City.

Tallaght native Miele had

a year to run of his deal with Rovers, and both he and Drennan, have professional football experience both in England and in the League of Ireland.

“They’re top quality players, both of them,” said Kenny. “I’m very surprised they were available, and we’re really thrilled to get the two of them in.”

The Saints have announced a new two-year deal for Ireland Under-19 goalkeeper Brian Maher.

The Dubliner will provide competition for Brendan Clarke and Barry Murphy.

Shels bring in O’Hanlon SHELBOURNE continue to build ahead of their 2019 promotion push with the addition of former Liverpool trainee Alex O’Hanlon.

The 22-year-old midfielder, who spent a season with St Patrick’s Athletic in 2017, was most recently with Glentoran in Northern Ireland.

He joins former Saints teammates Conan Byrne and Ryan Brennan in the dressing room at Shels, who have set their sights on a return to the top level.

O’Hanlon came through the ranks with St Kevin’s Boys before signing for Liverpool as a 16-year-old in 2011.

The Dubliner spent five seasons with the Reds but was unable to force his way into the first team and returned to Ireland.

He made 17 appearances for the Athletic, scored three times, before signing a half-year deal with the Glens in Belfast.

O’Hanlon, who represented Ireland up to Under-21 level, was on trial with Grimbsy Town in the summer but has opted to return to Dublin.

36 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 20 December 2018

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

2

NAOMH OLAF THE ACADEMY finished up for the year last Saturday with festive games and lots of fun. A very special visitor dropped in to see the boys and girls enjoying themselves and he was delighted to see that everyone was having such a great time.

Thanks to the mentors and everyone who helped to make the morning such a great success. We look forward to seeing all our academy players again in the New Year.

The Naomh Olaf Farmers Market will be held on Friday next from 9am until 2pm - why not call in to see what’s on offer for the festive season.

Commiserations to our Minor Camogie Team who were defeated in the Shield Final last Sunday morning.

The Christmas Lotto Draw took place in the Club last Saturday evening with fabulous prizes on offer, together with special prizes for those in attendance. Thanks to the Lotto Committee for their hard work throughout the year and for making the Christmas Lotto Draw such a great night.

There was no winner of the weekly Lotto Draw last weekend. Numbers drawn were 18, 19 & 25.

Next draw will take place on 6th January.

There will be live music from Retro in the Bar on St. Stephen’s Day from 7pm. Why not come along & enjoy the craic!

Guíonn Cathaoirleach agus Coiste Riartha Chumann Naomh Olaf Nollaig shona faoi shuaimhneas ar ár mbaill go léir. Buíochas as bhur gcabhair agus bhur dtacaíocht ar fad le linn na bliana 2018 agus tá súil againn sibh a fheiceáil I 2019.

SHANKILL THE CLUB would like to wish a very happy and a peaceful Christmas to our members and all of the Shankill community.

A New Year resolution for you parents and kids is to come to the Academy have fun and get fit in 2019.

The juvenile Academy Sponsored by O Donnell’s Pharmacy is in action every Saturday at 10am in our winter quarters indoors in the gym in St Laurence College.

Please come along and give the Academy a try. The cost is only €2 per child each week and there is no annual subscription.

All equipment is provided free and qualified coaches are always in attendance, its all about having fun with your friends.

Please note the Academy is taking its winter break and will return on Saturday 2nd February 2019.

There will be a Christmas social night for the adult members of the club in Brady’s Pub on Friday 21st December.

Christmas in the Village remember all of our sponsors who were so generous over the year and be sure to give them your support and shop local.

The Chase the Ace draw in Brady’s is put on hold for the present in order to allow the pub to facilitate its Christmas programme of events.

The jackpot stands at €1450. NOTE: The next draw will be held after Christmas. Tickets are €2 each or 3 for €5 available in the pub or from club members.

Check our Facebook page to see the summer camp and club birthday party videos produced by Lava Digital Marketing it’s a fantastic view as to what our club is all about and also see some fantastic photographs by our club photographer Liza Mitton.

We are currently looking for new players for our Adult Ladies and Adult Men’s football teams please contact GPO Steve Davis 087 6414123 or email stevedavis203@gmail.com

RUGBY: HISTORIC WINOLD IN DONNYBROOK OVER LOCALSHOW RIVALSTO RUGBY: BALLINTEER BOYS PRODUCE SUPERB

Wesley finally end their 26-year wait for victory AIL DIVISION 1B Old Wesley 20 St Mary’s College 9  sport@dublingazette.com

OLD WESLEY eventually recorded their first ever AIL win over St Mary’s at the eighth attempt, dating back to 1992, with a 20-9 success at Donnybrook, amid wet and wild conditions.

S t M a r ys ’ o u t h a l f Conor Dean opened the scoring after just three minutes with a penalty goal, helped by the tail wind and the woodwork.

He followed it up 10 minutes later with a second penalty to take a 6-0 lead. Old Wesley were playing well and gaining territory when running the ball but the wind advantage allowed the visitors to relieve pressure with long kicks as soon as they gained possession.

Twenty minutes in, Wesley had a good foot-

hold in the Marys’ 22 but an intercept allowed relief which could have been more costly but for Tom Kiersey’s cover tackle.

Then Kiersey was on hand shortly after with a deft chip ahead which was neatly collected by Paul Harte. Harte made good ground before passing to James O’Donovan who used his height and physique to cross for the first try. Rory Stynes converted to give Old Wesley a 7-6 lead.

Dean regained the Mary’s lead after 34 minutes with a well struck penalty from 45 metres out. But on the stroke of half time, Mary’s conceded a penalty for offside in front of a knock on which Stynes knocked over from 25 metres to make it 10-9 to Old Wesley at half time.

After the break, with conditions in their favour, the Donnybrook

side continued to apply pressure regularly taking possession into opposition territory.

JJ O’Dea, Mark Rowley and Paul Derham, among others, were causing headaches for the Mary’s defence, regularly breaking tackles and stealing turnover possession.

By contrast, the opposition attacks lacked penetration but no scores ensued for 25 minutes until Stynes cleared the bar with a penalty.

It was still in the balance at 13-9, particularly when Mary’s kicked a penalty to touch for a line out just 8 metres

out; a knock-on relieved the pressure in the last 10 minutes.

An O’Dea turnover led to Wesley regaining territory in the Mary’s 22. Now with renewed confidence the Wesley side peppered the Mary’s defence gaining ground with virtually every

Newpark denied first A title

Newpark’s key player Milly Lynch Picture: Sinead Hingston

LUCY Crowe’s pair of identical penalty corner goals saw Muckross storm back to win hockey’s Leinster Junior A Cup final 2-1 at Grange Road.

She swept home twice in the second half from clever switch moves, working the ball out right and then back in to the middle to convert from around the flick-spot.

It over-turned a half-time deficit as Zoe Watterson slammed home the opening goal on the stroke of the interval, handing a dream start to the Blackrock school in their first ever final of this magnitude.

Milly Lynch was superb at the base of the defence for Newpark, too, but Muckross started to work their way around the flanks in the second half and it paid dividends.

Crowe became more and more of an influence, getting the equaliser three minutes into the second half. And she struck again with 12 minutes to go in similar fashion from the Donnybrook school’s third penalty corner.

It was enough to land the trophy and continues their excellent run of results at this level of competition, reaching three finals in four years.

20 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 37

R1

SEE OFF MARY’S

SOCCER: STEPHEN KENNY PLOTS COURSE FOR U-21 SUCCESS

Stephen Kenny during his time with Dundalk. Picture: Eoin Noonan/Sportsfile

Kenny straight to work LSL SUNDAY SENIOR  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

Old Wesley forward Paul Derham charges at the St Mary’s defence, with Iain McGann in close support Picture: Ken Richardson

carry.

The pressure eventually paid off with Paul Derham ploughing over for a try just on full time.

Stynes, who kicked

perfectly all afternoon, slotted the conversion before the referee blew for full time, for a well deserved win for Old Wesley.

TALLAGHT’S Stephen Kenny will take charge of nine of the Republic of Ireland Under-21s’ European Championship qualifying games before taking over the senior manager’s job in the summer of 2020.

The former Dundalk and Shamrock Rovers manager was confirmed as under-21s boss last month with a succession plan in place for him to take over from Mick McCarthy after Euro 2020.

The 47-year-old Kenny will spend the next yearand-a-half familiarising himself with international football and the players coming through the sys-

tem before taking on the main role.

He now knows the opposition he’ll face in qualification after the draw in Nyon, with Italy, Sweden, Iceland, Luxembourg and Armenia making up a tough, but not insurmountable, group.

Ireland’s fixtures have been frontloaded, ensuring Kenny will miss only the final game – a tough away trip to the top seed Italians – before handing over the reins to his successor.

The new crop of under21s have faced both Italy and Sweden in qualifying for the 2017 Under-19 Euros, where both beat Italy before Ireland were pipped to qualification in defeat to the Swedes.

Italy qualified for the most recent under-19 Euros as Ireland came second in a group containing Portugal, and Kenny is under no illusions about how difficult a task it will be.

“There are a number of teams in our group with great pedigree,” Kenny said in reaction to the draw.

“Italy got to the U19 European Championship finals recently so to test ourselves against these teams is going to be a great experience.”

The two hosts – Hungary and Slovenia – qualify automatically for the 12-team tournament alongside the nine group winners, meaning there will only be one spot at

the final left for group runners-up.

With the pedigree of Sweden and Iceland in the group, it’s unlikely that Ireland’s group will produce one of the two best runners-up to contest the play-off, so it’s win or bust for Kenny.

Kenny’s first game will be the relatively straightforward visit of Luxembourg to Tallaght Stadium on March 24 of next year, the first of seven fixtures in a gruelling calendar year.

Ireland face Armenia at home on September 6 before travelling to Sweden four days later, while a home tie with Italy and trip to Iceland await in October.

“There are only two

play-off spots for qualification which in reality means we’ve got to finish top to qualify. For us to do that, we’ll have to achieve something extraordinary.

“It’s great to start the campaign in March at home and four home games next year for us which is exciting for the players.

“We won’t have much preparation time before the first game but that is the challenge and I’m really looking forward to it.

“I need to go out and see all of the players across Ireland, England and Scotland to see which players are in form and who could come into the squad for March. “ T h e wo r k s t a r t s straight away.”

Boden miss out on AFL1 league crown AFL DIVISION ONE FINAL St Vincent’s Ballyboden St Enda’s  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

Ballyboden’s Darren O’Reilly on the attack.

Picture: John Kirwan

0-18 3-4

ST VINCENT’S proved the more efficient attacking force as they overcame Ballyboden St Enda’s in the AFL1 final at St Margarets.

In a rare year in which neither side made the championship final, the late-season league finale offered a chance for both sides to salvage something from their season.

In an oddly topsy turvy battle, it was the Marino men’s more convincing second half performance – with Tomas

Quinn starring – which proved the difference.

The effervescent Quinn hit 0-10 over the course of the match but Vincent’s had been forced into comeback mode from early on, after Ballyboden hit an ominous looking glut of early goals.

Warren Egan hit the net twice inside the first ten minutes with Donagh McCabe adding another but, from then on, Boden seemed to hit the off switch, and St Vincent’s took charge. In fact, Boden did have a couple of other goal scoring opportunities, and despite having let in three early, a fine performance by Michael Savage in the Vincent’s goal was matched only by Quinn at the other end.

The former Dublin man hit 0-7 by half time as Vincent’s narrowed the mid-stage break to a bizarre-looking 3-1 to 0-9 in Ballyboden’s favour.

In torrid conditions, the south side club could add only three more point in the second half, while St Vincent’s were far more consistent, with points for Cormac Diamond and three more from Quinn helping them on the way to what ultimately proved a fairly straightforward win against their fading rivals.

Ballyboden had won the same contest by two points in the league earlier in the season, but Vincent’s hammering of Cuala at the league semifinal stage was perhaps more indicative of form.

As well as Quinn, familiar faces in Ger Brennan and Shane Carthy were particularly influential in helping Vincent’s stabilise after their poor start. By the time they edged in front, the title only looked likely to go one way.

38 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 20 December 2018

HOCKEY

TENNIS: LOCAL CLUB AWARDED IMPORTANT CLUBMARK

UCD plan Olympic standard new pitch UCD have announced the planned installation of a new internationally certified playing surface at the UCD Hockey Stadium in Belfield with the aim of being ready to potentially host the next stage of the women’s Olympic qualifying process.

“We are delighted to announce the resurfacing of the main pitch at our Hockey Stadium which has reached the end of its lifespan after providing our students with fantastic sporting moments and memories over the past 20 years,” Dominic O’Keeffe, UCD’s Director of Student Services and Facilities said at the announcement.

This launch came on the same day as the new training base for the Irish senior men and women was announced at Abbotstown.

The current playing surface was installed over 23 years ago, hosting the women’s World Cup in 1994 and the men’s European Championships a year later.

The surface has been repaired on multiple occasions over its lifetime, with its most recent repair occurring over 10 years ago.

The new surface is planned for installation over an eight-week window between April and May with the aspiration of facilitating club and international fixtures from June onward.

The surface is FIH approved and designed with a “non-directional” yarn that is playable with or without watering.

The cost to replace the surface is estimated be between €350,000 and €400,000. In addition to the surface cost, further works will be carried out to realign the pitch, upgrade the lighting system, install new dugouts and a permanent TV gantry and add international standard goals as well as further works for venue quality assurance purposes.

The university will cover the cost of the pitch replacement and improvements. Previously, UCD and Hockey Ireland went in as a joint-venture on pitch development but this change means Hockey Ireland will no longer have an allocation of pitch time at the venue.

Nonetheless, UCD is still very much open to hosting international events run by Hockey Ireland with the timeframe designed to have the venue ready in time for the women’s Hockey Series Finals in June.

This is the next phase in the Olympic qualifying process.

“With regards pitch time, UCD are long-established friends of Irish hockey and will continue to support their endeavours into the future. Finally, I can clarify all costs are solely covered by UCD on this project.”

Currently, UCD Men’s and Ladies Hockey Clubs run two men’s teams and eight ladies teams. The news was favourably welcomed by current UCD and Irish international players Hannah McLoughlin, Clodagh Cassin and Lena Tice (pictured).

Stephen O’Shea (Monkstown head coach), Julie Byrne, Conor Gannon, Scott Barron, Richard Fahey (CEO of Tennis Ireland), Geraldine Colgan (Monkstown LTC president), Minister Mary Mitchell-O’Connor, Gina Niland and Michael McMahon.

Monkstown’s gold standard

 sport@dublingazette.com

MO N KSTOW N L aw n Tennis Club – the oldest tennis club in Ireland – has been 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.

The award is part of Tennis Ireland’s accreditation programme and confirms Monkstown’s status as one of the best-run clubs with marks awarded for effective organisation, management, safety, child welfare, risk management, equality and

inclusion, organised play and scoring, competition, coaching, player development, outreach programmes, communication and public relations.

On hand to present the award to Monkstown LTC President Geraldine Colgan were Minister of State for Higher Education, Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD and Chief Executive of Tennis Ireland, Richard Fahey.

Colgan spoke of the collective pride of the Monkstown LTC members: “Last night, we were not only the oldest tennis club in Ireland but the proudest as well.

“I was delighted to

BIG BOOST Drimnagh club get new Capital support GALTY Celtic received a boost this week with the news that Capital Credit Unions have come on board as a sponsor of the club.

James Liston, Youth & Community Officer, is pictured presenting Brendan Dempsey of Galty with their new kit, sponsored by Capital Credit Union, wishing the club “the best of luck going forward”.

accept the Gold Clubmark Award from Tennis Ireland on behalf of all our members.”

Fahey commended Monkstown on the ir achievement: “This award is due recognition for the high standards that Monkstown LTC maintains across all levels of the club’s activities.

“The Clubmark Programme is an integral component of the new strategy that Tennis Ireland will be launching early next year and I am delighted to see a club of Monkstown’s stature investing time and energy in the programme and in doing so, becoming only

the sixth club in Ireland to achieve the programme’s gold status.

“On my several visits to Monkstown in recent months I have been very impressed by what I have seen.

“It is a vibrant club and one that Tennis Ireland is proud to support.”

Also in attendance were some of Monkstown LTC’s elite players, among them Scott Barron - who represented Ireland at the Summer Olympics in Atlanta in 1996, Gina Niland - Ireland’s most-capped female tennis player, Julie Byrne - a member of Ireland’s Fed Cup team and who is currently on a ten-

nis scholarship in the US, and Conor Gannon - the current boys Under-16s national champion.

Head Coach Stephen O’Shea paid tribute to the positive environment that is helping to foster the development of young players at the club.

“We are fortunate to have committed and motivated parents whose support enables the coaching team to implement a coaching programme that caters for young players of all standards.

“Our senior coaching programme is also thriving with more of our members playing regular tennis than ever before.”

20 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 39

HURLING: NEW DUBLIN BOSS RACKS UP TWO WINS IN WALSH CUP

Kenny’s reign up and running in upbeat fashion WALSH CUP GROUP STAGES  JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

THE DUBLIN HURLERS have made a solid start to life under former Cuala boss Mattie Kenny, winning both of their opening two rounds of the preseason Walsh Cup, against Carlow and Offaly.

A trip to Carlow away for Kenny’s opening contest on a cold Tuesday night was nip and tuck for much of the game, with Dublin coming good in the closing stages after Carlow had pulled back a halftime deficit.

Naomh Fionnbarra man Eamonn Dillon’s 13th minute goal off the back of a pass from the impressive Fintan McGibb was the difference at half time, as Dublin led 1-8 to 0-8.

The half had ebbed and flowed for Dublin, however, with the boys in blue enjoying a dominant period just before the middle of the half in which they scored 1-3 without reply, and then shipping eight consecutive points.

John Hetherton’s free taking added four points from frees before half time, and he was to end with 0-10, including 0-8 from placed balls.

Carlow had pulled themselves back

1-12 each with just 13 minutes left of the contest, but Dublin looked the fitter of the two sides and pulled away from there on.

McGibb was at the heart of it again, as he finished from close range in the 55th minute, adding to points from Caolan Conway and Hetherton to deliver a comfortable win for the Dubs, 2-21 to 1-16.

Kenny hinted at an exploratory period in his early days as Dublin boss when he made five changes over the weekend in the side to face Offaly at Parnell Park.

Unlike the Carlow game, this one looked fairly comfortably throughout, though the final margin of victory was not all that different in a game made more difficult by soggy conditions underfoot.

Dublin had led 0-10 to 0-5 after a slightly uninspiring first half in which Cian Boland and Dillon stood out.

Dillon could have added a second half goal, firing narrowly wide after the break, but Dublin continued to rack up the points in a more open second half, ultimately coming out 0-27 to 0-18 winners.

There was a chance for Kenny to see a good deal of his bench over the course

Meath edge out Dubs in Sean Cox challenge

Former Cuala manager Mattie Kenny

of that second period, while Donal Burke, Treacy, Dillon, Hetherton and Boland all hit 0-4, and Conor Burke and Fergal Whitely added another 0-2 each.

“A good honest effort from all the lads. In general they were trying to do the right thing with the ball most of the times and set up some nice scoring opportunities.They’re the sort of things we’re going to be working on going into the New Year,” Kenny said

of the games.

The departure of both David Treacy and Donal Burke with injuries in the Offaly game will be of some modest concern for Kenny, but overall there are plenty of promising signs from his very early reign.

The double victory leaves the Dubs top of their Walsh Cup group, with only Laois to come in the group stage, early in the New Year.

Barrog braced for arrival of Dubs Stars carnival DUB STARS  sport@dublingazette.com

Kilmacud Crokes Paul Mannion was named Dublin SFC player of the year.

Picture: Frances Mullin

FOOTBALL

NAOMH Barrog will host the 2018 Dublin Bus Dubs Stars on Saturday with the heroes of the club championships taking on a Dublin senior selection in both football and hurling on Saturday, December 22.

The football clash will get under way at 12pm, followed up by the hurling at 1.30pm with plenty of festive cheer on offer.

Kilmacud Crokes, as county champs, form the largest representation of the footballers, particularly in the backlines. Goalkeeper David Nestor made a crucial penalty save in

the Dublin final and he takes up the number one jersey in front of club mates Liam Flatman and Andrew McGowan in the full-back line.

Cian O’Connor at righthalf-back, midfielder Craig Dias, half-forward Shane Horan and the championship’s player of the year Paul Mannion make for seven Crokes players in the line-up.

Jude’s also have a big contingent with Chris Guckian, Tom Lahiff, Mark Sweeney and Kevin McManamon bolstering the side.

Thomas Davis’ Adam Fallon had the left cornerback spot; Ballyboden St Enda’s Basquel boys Colm

and Ryan will be employed further up the pitch while free-taker supreme Dean Rock is another star turn.

For the hurling, county champions Ballyboden St Enda’s and runners-up Kilmacud Crokes both have significant numbers in the Stars line-up.

Both clubs have six players in the starting selection with two more each among the subs.

Cuala have been awarded two positions in the starting 15 – Darragh O’Connell at wing-back and David Treacy in the half-forward line.

St Vincent’s John Hetherton completes the selection at centre-forward.

HOSTS Meath produced a late scoring surge at the finish to edge out Dublin 0-16 to 1-11 in the Sean Cox fundraising challenge at Pairc Tailteann, Navan on Sunday.

The Royals kicked the last four points of this well-contested duel to snatch victory front of a crowd of around 5,000 with many more having bought tickets to contribute to the fundraising event.

Dublin began with four of the side that started this year’s All-Ireland SFC final: Eoin Murchan, Brian Fenton, Brian Howard and Niall Scully.

Dublin led after seven minutes with Stephen Smith on target twice but with the returning Mickey Newman hitting four points it was the home side who led 0-8 to 0-5 at the interval.

Both sides ran their bench in the second half but a Robbie McDaid goal looked to have put Dublin in the driving seat before Meath slotted four points in-a-row with Bryan McMahon, Niall Kane and Newman securing the win for Andy McEntee’s men.

The match was for Seán Cox, a St Peter’s of Dunboyne clubman who was left with brain injuries following an attack outside Anfield when he was assaulted by a Roma fan less than an hour before kickoff at the Champions League tie in April 2018.

GazetteSPORT DECEMBER 20-26, 2018

ALL OF YOUR SOUTH DUBLIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 33-39

WESLEY END 26-YEAR WAIT RUGBY: Southside

derby finally falls the way of Wes as they eventually see off St Mary’s SEE P36

GOAL MILE ATHLETICS: Annual Christmas run set to see over quarter of a million get out and active on the big day.

SEE P35

KENNY REIGN’S WINNING START

HURLING: New Dublin boss begins his time in the role with a pair of Walsh Cup wins for a positive mood ahead of the Dub Stars. SEE P39

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Dublin stars abound at RTE’s sports awards  CÓILÍN DUFFY

sport@dublingazette.com

DUBLINERS were to the fore at Sunday’s RTÉ Sports Awards with local connections to three of the five awards, with Leinster and Ireland’s Johnny Sexton scooping the Sportsperson of the Year; Firhouse man Graham Shaw picking up Manager of the Year; and the Ireland women’s Hockey team, with plenty of Dubliners on board taking the Team of the Year award.

Sexton scooped the top individual accolade after a magnificent year for both club and country in which he starred for Ireland as they won only the ir third ever Grand Slam, had a series win over Australia, and ended the year with a first win against New Zealand on home soil.

At club level he played a pivotal role in Leinster claiming an unprecedented European Champions Cup and Guinness Pro14 double.

“I’d like to thank all my teammates and coaches, and the Irish coaches who are top class, World class, and they make your job a little bit easier,” the Leinster out-half said.

The Rathgar man added: “You feel bad accepting individual awards as a number 10.

You are meant to be the guy who sits in the background and try and help control the team. I don’t think I should be getting individual awards,

Bohemians and St Kevin’s Boys young stars have Johnny thefor RTE 2018 formallySexton joinedwith forces 2018 and beyond Sportsperson of the Year award. Picture: RTE Inset, in action against Bath last Saturday.

Picture: Martin Doherty

“You feel bad accepting individual awards as a

number 10. You are meant to be the guy who sits in the background and try and help control the team” because it’s the other guys that make me look good.”

Teamwork The highly-coveted RTÉ Sport Team of the Year Award was voted for by the viewing public with the Irish women’s hockey team honoured after their World Cup silver-medal winning

exploits.

It was a side packed with Dubliners with Railway Union’s Grace O ’Fl a n a ga n , Mo n ks town’s Chloe Watkins, Pembroke’s Gillian Pinder and Emily Beatty, Loreto’s Hannah Matthews, Nicci Daly and Ali Meeke, UCD graduates Deirdre Duke and Katie Mullan and current

student Lena Tice all on the squad.

Their head coach Graham Shaw was named RTÉ Sport Manager of the Year.

The Firhouse native said, “This is a huge moment for me personally and for our sport,” said Shaw afterwards.

“I’ve got a spec ial group of people there.

They train really hard and work hard each other. It was our first World Cup. “To enter a major competition and perform the way they performed and show the level of composure and togetherness was something to be very, very proud of.

“We love a challenge.

And the challenge now

is the Olympic Games.

We ’ l l a p p ro a c h t h a t head on and look forward to it.”

Other award winners on the night included Rhys McClenaghan who was honoured with the ‘Young Sportsperson of the Year’ award, with Irish soccer legend Ray Houghton inducted into the Hall of Fame.