Dublin Gazette: South Edition

DublinGazette DECEMBER 13-19, 2018

DUBLINMAGAZINE: ’Tis the season for endless pantos and carols – and we have some of the best festive features PAGE 17

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

DublinGazette DECEMBER 13-19, 2018

DUBLINMAGAZINE: ’Tis the season for endless pantos and carols – and we have some of the best festive features PAGE 17

South Edition

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

100 jobs for Leopardstown LEOPARDSTOWN is proving to be a magnet in attracting cyber security investors, according to a local Senator after more jobs were announced for the area.

SEE PAGE 5

SPORT

GAELIC GAMES:

All-Ireland and Leinster final dreams end for Foxrock Cabinteely and Kilmacud Crokes SEE P36-37

panto-RIFFIC

WE ROUND UP SOME OF THE BEST FAMILY SHOWS IN TOWN P16

BAGS OF FUN IN BLACKROCK SANTA arrived to a packed and excited Blackrock Shopping Centre following a spectacular parade through the village. Bags of family entertainment, rides on Santa’s magical express, music, giveaways and a visit to Santa’s gingerbread house made for a wonderful day - plus there was a celeb appearance from Fair City stars Dave O’Sullivan and Ryan Andrews. Picture: Colin Bell

Dun Laoghaire blind centre to stay open REBECCA RYAN

Find us on Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

Four-year sentence for steel toe assault

THE National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI) have announced that provisions are being made for a vital service in Dun Laoghaire to remain open.

Last month Dublin Gazette reported that members of the blind and visually impaired community were devastated

over the potential closure of the NCBI centre in the town, and they held a protest calling for the centre not to close.

At the time, service users said they were told they would be able to attend a centre in Tallaght, which was not an option for many because of the difficulty in getting there.

In a statement, the NCBI said follow-

ing a joint review with the HSE, additional funding is being made available by the HSE to ensure that the NCBI office in Marine House will “remain open for the foreseeable future.”

CEO of the NCBI, Chris White said he acknowledged the upset the potential closure had caused service users.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

A DUBLIN businessman who kicked a mother-of-two in the head with his steel toe shoe during a vicious assault has received a four year sentence.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Joseph Fraser (42) had been dating the woman for a few months when he drove to her home drunk.

Det Gda Robert Collins testified that the injured party hid Fraser’s car keys to prevent him from driving again and causing an accident.

Fraser got angry at this and began punching the woman in the ribs, face and head, in an attack which carried through the hallway and kitchen and into the back garden.

SEE PAGE 10

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 13 December 2018

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01 60 10 240

ADDITIONAL FUNDING BEING MADE AVAILABLE

Vital NCBI service set to remain open

FASTNews

FROM PAGE 1

“I acknowledge that the last few weeks have been upsetting for service users in Dun Laoghaire as the future of the office was unclear.

“It was never our intention to cause any distress to service users, but instead we merely wanted to utilise our resources in a way which afforded the greatest level of access to people with sight loss across the entirety of south Dublin and Kildare.

“The additional funding leaves the NCBI in the fortunate position of having two centres based on the south side of the city, resulting in an enhanced service offering.”

In addition, NCBI will be opening a new purpose-

Big win for Dun Laoghaire Musical Society Protest last month outside the NCBI office

built and fully accessible centre in Tallaght Cross, in mid-January 2019.

White added: “Our new Tallaght centre will act as our centre of excellence on the south side for all our staff and service delivery

and reflects our commitment to providing worldclass services to the visionimpaired community in Ireland.

“Service users of our Dun Laoghaire centre will see no dilution in the services

or the peer support groups currently operating, and it is the board’s and executive’s intention to see additional services being run through this centre on a weekly basis.”

An anonymous service user, who is visually impaired, told Dublin Gazette that while he is “very happy” with the news, he and others are concerned that the full service in Dun Laoghaire will not be retained.

He said: “The whole benefit to the service that was there was that if my white cane broke, I could go down and try and get it replaced straight away, or if I needed some help in getting a new talking watch I could drop into the place or telephone them.

“That kind of service if very very valuable. If they take that away it would be a significant reduction of service.”

“Dublin Gazette contacted the HSE and NCBI for clarification on the concerns raised by the service user, to which the NCBI’s Chris White replied: “All services delivered and operated in our Dun Laoighaire Centre during 2018 will continue in 2019 this includes all peer support groups.

“Our staff will accommodate service requests on a case-by-case basis in Dun Laoghaire like we have done for over a decade.”

DUN Laoghaire Musical Society (DMDS) had a big win at the North Wales Choral Festival.

The group won the ‘Just for Fun’ category in the major international competition and was the third win in a row for DMDS in the competition.

The chorus of 34 conducted by Des Cox, performed three songs; Banks of Loch Lomond, Bright Morning Star and Wade in the Water.

The members of DMDS are currently rehearsing for Jekyll & Hyde the musical, which will run in the Pavilion Theatre from March 12-16 next year.

Concert in Last chance aid of kids’ to have say charity on Dundrum A SPECIAL concert in aid of a children’s charity is taking place in Dundrum this weekend.

‘O Magnum Mysterium’ is an evening of Christmas Choral music and carols by Ascolta.

Ascolta “to listen” formed in November 2017 and is one of Dublin’s newest vocal ensembles.

With several members living in the Dundrum area, the group are very excited to perform in the beautiful acoustic and aesthetic of Holy Cross Church and look forward to welcoming you to a festive evening of music.

The event takes place on Saturday December 15 at 8pm at Holy Cross Church, Main Street, Dundrum.

Tickets are €15 and proceeds will be donated to Children’s Medical and Research Foundation (CMRF) in Crumlin.

Tickets available on Eventbrite and at the door.

DUNDRUM residents are being encouraged to submit their ideas on the future of the area before the deadline this Friday as part of a new Local Area Plan.

Local group Imagine Dundrum have been holding information meetings and said the response from locals have expressed suggestions such as a civic centre in the heart of Dundrum, reduced traffic on main street with a better pedestrian way, housing in the village for older people and downsizers, tree planting and a better general environment, and a more pleasant access way to Dundrum Luas station.

To ensure your views are heard, you can submit your ideas online at https://dlrcoco. citizenspace.com/planning/ copy-of-predraftdundrumlap-2019-2025/ or by writing to the Senior Executive Officer, Planning and HR Department, DLRCC. The submission deadline is Friday December 14 at 5pm.

13 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

DUN LAOGHAIRE: DRONE CONSULTANTS IRELAND PICK UP PRESTIGIOUS AWARD

Local man Ian flying high after wining ‘Space Oscar’ REBECCA RYAN

A DUN LAOGHAIRE man’s business, that he set up from his sick bed, is flying high after scooping a prestigious award.

Ian Kiely’s Drones Consultants Ireland company has just been announced as the winner of the 2018 European Satellite Navigation Competition, dubbed the ‘Space Oscars’.

The 41-year-old told Dublin Gazette he is feeling overwhelmed by it all.

“I’m still struggling to take it all in! We’re the first Irish team to ever win it. It’s really exciting. It’s opened a lot of doors,” he says.

Ian worked for years as a hotel manager, then as a catering manager at Microsoft, and then he qualified as a project manager.

In 2010 he got badly injured and had two knee surgeries. In 2014 he had more knee surgeries

and got shingles on top of everything. He spent eight months in bed and four months recuperating. It was during that time his drone business developed.

“My friend was talking to me about drones and I thought ‘what’s this drone thing.’ I started looking into it.

“I spoke to the Department of Social Protection a couple of times and eventually they gave me the back to work allowance.

“When you’ve lost everything, and you’re really injured it shows your prospective on everything.

“I was 37 and I thought I had to get back on top somehow otherwise I was going to be left behind.

I think that helped with the drive and determination.”

Ian then worked hard and qualified as a drone operator.

Within a year of qualifying, Ian and two friends rented the RDS and put on a Drone Expo with

1,800 people showing up. The next one 2,500 people showed up.

From there he continued to experience success. He worked on different drone projects with the likes of the Fire Brigade, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown and Dublin City Councils.

He then started thinking about fires and disasters around the world and what he and his team could build drones to help monitor them.

Describing their product, Ian said: “If we were to drop five of our units around the Californian wildfires, we would be able to see every inch of the fire in real time and zoom in from 10 kilometres away and guide a lost person out. And we can stay there for 500 hours.”

Ian and his team Peter Downey and Keith Tracey are now looking to build prototypes and are seeking investment.

Peter Downey, Keith Tracey and Ian Kiely (Drone Consultants Ireland) with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar

Ian has already taken home numerous awards and he credits the State, his family, friends and colleagues for their help and encouragement along the journey.

“Lots of good people were believing us and pushing us.

Annemarie Phelan heads up Media Cube [in IADT in Dun Laoghaire]. She has been an

amazing support.

“Even when I didn’t believe in what we were doing she’s be banging on our doors saying, ‘get that finger out!’ We wouldn’t have been able to do it without her.”

There is no stopping this passionate entrepreneur and no doubt he will continue to experience further success.

RELIAQUEST

Another 100 jobs for Leopardstown LEOPARDSTOWN is proving to be a magnet in attracting cyber security investors, according to a local Senator after more jobs were announced for the area.

American cyber security company ReliaQuest have announced that it will open its first office location outside the US creating 100 jobs over the next three years for security engineers, analysts and content developers.

ReliaQuest CEO Brian Murphy said there were a number of reasons they chose Leopardstown.

“We chose Dublin for several reasons, including its strong talent, the ease of travel back and forth from our headquarters in the US and around the rest of Europe, and the openness and focus on collaboration fostered by Ireland.”

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 13 December 2018

KNOCKLYON: ‘EVEN ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON THERE’S TWENTY MINUTE TAILBACKS’

Commuters ‘livid’ as new cycle lane causing traffic chaos PADRAIG CONLON

A COUNCILLOR driven to launch a petition calling on South Dublin County Council to reinstate a roundabout has described Knocklyon’s traffic problem as “unprecedented”.

The online petition set up last week by Cllr Deirdre O’Donovan (IND) has already received almost 4,000 signatures from locals demanding the council reinstate the two lanes approaching the Orlagh Roundabout in Knocklyon.

The road, which is used by many southsiders, was reduced to a single lane to create a cycle lane, is now suffering extreme tailbacks since construction work started in July and local commuters are “livid” according to Cllr O Donovan.

“When the work started

in the summer we were told it would be finished by the time the children went back to school.

“It’s now December and it’s still not finished, people are absolutely livid.

“A local business has told me their trade is down because of the traffic gridlock. Even on a Saturday afternoon there’s twenty minute tailbacks up to the roundabout.

“The roundabout worked perfectly fine beforehand, now the road has been narrowed so much residents have been telling me of near misses with some lorries and buses having to drive on the path “They’ve made it impossible for motorists and the affect on traffic in Knocklyon has been catastrophic.

“During these tailbacks even ambulances on their way to Tallaght Hospital can’t get through.

“The roundabout needs to be put back the way it was.”

Cllr O’Donovan said local residents are also fearful for the future w i t h f u r t h e r d eve l opments in the area planned.

“There is planning for

“

It’s now December and it’s still not finished, people are absolutely livid

a further 4,000 houses around Knocklyon but the infrastructure isn’t even adequate to deal with the present population.

“This problem is unprecedented in Knocklyon, it’s now unworkable.

“This is a tipping point for local residents, there is no confidence things aren’t going to get worse.

“It makes sense that the South Dublin County Council want to build a cycle lane so kids can cycle to school, St Colmcille’s is one of the biggest primary schools in Europe.

“But what they’ve done to the road and the roundabout is all for the sake of a few kids to go to school.”

Cllr Deirdre O’Donovan

In response to enquiries about the traffic problems in Knocklyon, the council said: “The

council acknowledges that there are currently delays at the Orlagh Roundabout which is causing public disquiet.

“There is currently a temporary traffic management system in place at the roundabout which is necessary for the protection of the workers and public alike.

“This has the effect of narrowing the road to less than what it will be in the permanent works.

“The road surfacing is as yet incomplete and is therefore lower than its permanent state.

“Consequently, HGV’s/ buses etc are not as yet using the inner apron.

“It is widely accepted that delays are caused in roadworks situation due to drivers slowing down to view the works. It is not possible to construct a scheme of the scale and nature such as this scheme in such a narrow corridor without causing some disruption to traffic. “ Fi n a l l y, t h e ro a d works are not as yet complete so it would be premature at this stage to suggest that the redesign doesn’t work.

“The works however, are scheduled to be completed before Christmas. These works will then be monitored to ensure they work satisfactorily.”

Denise living the dream in Marlay Courtyard BALLINTEER artist Denise Cruickshank is settling into her new Marlay Courtyard digs after winning a studio space in a contest.

Dublin Gazette caught up with Denise to see how life has been for her since winning the competition.

Denise grew up and went to school in Ballinteer. Speaking on how she first got into designing, she said: “In the 80’s

I studied pattern making and dress design in the Grafton Academy of Dress Design. Then I studied Display and Design in COMAD, which was in Parnell Square at that time.

“When I graduated there were no jobs here, so I took the boat, train to London the day I finished college.

“The second day in London I got a job as a

couture machinist with the designer Zandra Rhodes.

“The next place I worked was Laurence Corner. Stylists, actors and pop stars shopped there. I repaired decommissioned military uniforms, made costumes and props and did the artwork for catalogues. I was given a lot of money and freedom to research and develop themes.

Denise in her studio

“I also ran a market stall in Camden Town outside Dingwalls the music venue.”

Denise then came home in the 90s and worked as a production manager for Theme Events, then worked for women’s aid as a manager in 2002 for 16 years.

Denise said winning the Marlay Park competition was a dream come true.

Denise creates colourful products for all ages; clothes, gifts, cards and soft furnishings which are all handmade and hand painted.

“I like to design, paint, sew, create, bake, knit, so I have been able to bring all of these skills to the business,” said Denise.

For more on Denise’s work see www.denisemarlayparkblog.wordpress.com/

13 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

OFFICIAL OPENING: DEVELOPMENT COMPRISED OF 32 FAMILY HOMES AND 12 APARTMENTS

44 new homes at Rosemount Dundrum are completed REBECCA RYAN

FORTY-FOUR new homes have been finished at Rosemount Court in Dundrum.

The development comprises 34 family homes and 12 apartments and provide a further 44 homes as part of the council’s housing delivery target of 1,563 social housing units by the end of 2021.

Funded by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government through Rebuilding Ireland the development is set around a shared community green.

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said they wished to thank the local residents for their “patience” while the project was being constructed.

Speaking at the launch, An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Smyth, said: “I am delighted with the progress of the dlr housing programme.

“The building of new homes remains a major pillar of our housing delivery programme, with 101 houses completed so far this year and a further 50 to be completed in the coming weeks.”

Local independent councillor Anne

Colgan also welcomed the official opening and welcomed the families to the area.

She told Dublin Gazette: “This is a wonderful day for the families who are so welcome to Dundrum! Some are moving back to their original community, and some moving to Dundrum for the first time.

“I know that they will find this warm and welcoming community, and that both the children and adults will settle in quickly to their new homes.”

Maria Mieszczyk receiving the keys, with Minister Eoghan Murphy and Cllr Ossian Smyth, Cathaoirleach of DLRCC. Picture: Peter Cavanagh

‘Absolute legend’ priest praised for fundraising

THE Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA) has announced they are now able to hire a fourth nurse because of fundraising efforts by a very special Mount Merrion priest.

In March 2018, Fr Tony Coote (54) was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

One person in Ireland dies every three days from MND. It is a progressive neurological condition that attacks the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord, which means that messages gradually stop reaching the muscles, leading to weakness and wasting.

When Fr Tony received the diagnosis, he said: “Like others who have received such news I was terrified, and my body

went into shock.

“A ro u n d t h i s t i m e someone asked to remember that, ‘the diagnosis is not the prognosis’. I have repeated that in my head as a mantra every day.

“I have also committed myself to living each day, looking to the future and choosing to live rather than exist.”

Speaking on what encouraged him to set up Walk While You Can, the Dublin Diocese priest in Kilmacud and Mount Merrion parishes said: “Rather than just complaining about these facts I want to use my time and my voice to do something about it.”

Shortly after his diagnosis, Fr Tony decided to walk the length of Ireland to raise funds for Irish Motor Neurone

Disease Foundation and Research Motor Neurone.

Walk While You Can was born, and Fr Tony set out to walk 550 kilometres from Letterkenny to Ballydehob last summer.

When July came, he had already lost the ability to walk, but determined he covered the journey in a wheelchair.

The event was a huge success and as a result the IMNDA are now able to hire a fourth nurse to help people living with Motor Neurone Disease.

Chief executive of IMNDA, Roisin Duffy, said he is an “absolute legend.”

“We’re going to be able to get a fourth which is brilliant. We’re absolutely over the moon.

“What Fr. Tony has achieved in the last few

months is remarkable, and we are blown away by his bravery and his sheer determination to help other people living with Motor Neurone Disease.

“He has given a voice to so many and highlighted the challenges posed by this devastating disease on a daily basis.”

Ms Duffy said that Fr Tony was “so happy” to hear that the IMNDA are able to hire a fourth nurse.

“On Friday night he said [it] was the best news he’s had all year.

He’s really seeing the value of what he’s done.”

The outreach nursing service, which is funded entirely from public donations, helps over 370 patients in Ireland spread across 26 countries.

Fr To ny w a s a l s o

Fr Tony Coote. Pictures: Colm Mahady/Fennells

recently recognised for his life’s achievements

by UCD, where he was Chaplin to the College of Science, and was conferred with an honorary Doctorate of Science by the University.

Walk While You Can

raised a total of €550,000 with the proceeds being divided between the IMNDA and Research Motor Neurone.

For information on how to give, visit www. idonate.ie/walkwhileyoucan

FASTNews Beauty and The Beast at Mill Theatre THE DLR Mill Theatre’s panto production of Beauty and The Beast by Mill Productions is up and running at Dundrum Town Centre.

Written and directed by Geoff O’Keeffe, this is a story of unrequited love featuring Evelyn Shaw as Belle, Shane Quigley as the Beast, Matthew O’Brien as the charming self-loving Gaston with Garry Mountaine as the wonderful Granny Potts.

This traditional story of friendship and love, mixes magic and adventure with spectacular song, dance routines and magical special effects.

On a serious note, The Mill’s Beauty and the Beast delivers an underlying life lesson to never judge a person by their looks.

The panto runs until January 6 with tickets priced at €55 for a family and single admission from €14.

See www.milltheatre.ie for more.

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 13 December 2018

GALLERIES

Jenny McArdle and Christina Finn

Ciara Cooney, author of Havana Sunset Vincent McArdle, Anne Aylmer and Noelle Doody. Pictures: Peter Cavanagh

Vincent with Minister Josepha Madigan and Miriam McArdle at the launch of Havana Sunset in Dundrum library

Launch of Vincent McArdle’s new book in Dundrum

Joe O’Connor, Miriam McArdle and Sean Curry

Eric Stewart and Paddy and Joy Elliott

13 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

AIRFIELD

Locals up in arms about ‘noisy’ events LOCALS are up in arms about “noise disruption” coming from “boozy, theme park type events” in a local Dundrum venue.

Best Parties Ever are hosting a Christmas extravaganza at Airfield Estate.

Local area representative for Dundrum Anna Grainger (FG) said locals are bracing themselves for a “Christmas of discontent”.

She said: “Airfield Estate plan to run a series of boozy, theme park type events in the weeks prior to Christmas, commencing at 6.45pm till 1am, however, you won’t find it anywhere on their website.

“Holywell Residents Association (HRA) have already experienced noise disruption throughout the summer this year and by chance found out about these planned events.

“HRA have objected to all Airfield licences, which is set for mention on January 16 next. In relation to Airfield’s Occasional Licence, a specific licence required for these series of events prior to Christmas, we have negotiated and agreed conditions which have been made part of the Noise Management Plan.

However, it will be a case of ‘suck it and see’ scenario as the Judge exclaimed.”

Airfield Estate Management said: “Best Parties Ever have been planning for Christmas events at Airfield Estate since early 2018. They are highly experienced in running these type of events, are committed to abiding by all legal and licencing requirements, as well as respecting Airfields physical environment.

“We will continue to monitor the events at Best Parties Ever to ensure all agreements are adhered to and that any local issues are addressed without delay by the event company.”

CHERRYWOOD: CONSTRUCTION STARTS TO DELIVER 1,269 NEW APARTMENTS

Largest urban development in the State launched

REBECCA RYAN

THE largest urban development in Ireland has been launched in Cherrywood.

Construction is underway to deliver 1,269 new apartments at Cherrywood Town Centre over the next three years, including 130 social units.

Approximately 3,000 construction jobs will be created over the lifetime of the Town Centre building project, with the immediate creation of 300 jobs by John Sisk & Son on the first

phase of development.

It coincides with agreement between Hines and APG for an additional investment to specifically target other new ‘build-torent’ development opportunities in Cherrywood and across Dublin city in the coming years.

Multi-national developers Hines and APG Asset Management also announced they plan to invest an additional circa €700m in growing this platform beyond the 1,269 units currently secured

at Cherrywood to deliver approximately 3,000 units across the Greater Dublin Area, ultimately taking total capital invested to over €1.1bn.

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council gave the green light last May for the new 2.1 million sq ft development to be built at Cherrywood. The €1 billion mixed-use development will also include 585,000 sq ft of retail and office space as well as high-amenity leisure space.

Speaking at the launch

Paul van Stiphout, APG Asset Management; Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy and Brian Moran, Hines. Picture: Naoise Culhane

event on Monday, Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy, said he was delighted to see Cherrywood coming on stream at a time of such critical demand for new housing supply.

He said: “The commencement of construction at Cherrywood SDZ is to be warmly welcomed as a very significant development.

“Cherrywood’s strategic development zone status

allows for major projects of scale to be delivered within accelerated timeframes and as of today, it is officially the largest urban development in the State and in time will see approximately 8,000 new homes becoming available in the area.

“The 1,269 new apartments that will emerge from this first phase of development will deliver modern and sustainable

housing for the new residents of Cherrywood for many years to come.”

Cherrywood is a government-designated Strategic Development Zone project to build a new town in the borough of Dun LaoghaireRathdown comprising over 7,700 new homes, six schools, three major parks and leisure facilities, and serving an eventual planned population of 25,000 people.

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 13 December 2018

Super students assemble for anti bullying initiative

Niamh Kelly, Valerie Skrypnychuk, Katelin Jackson, Kinga Ksiazek, Lauryn McDonnell, Mawada Al-Akari, Alyssa O’Leary and Liana Caira

STUDENTS at St Raphaela’s Secondary School in Stillorgan are doing tremendous things for antibullying campaigns.

The student council at the school came up with a unique way to harness the power of eight cinematic superheroes to promote the ISPCC’s Shield My School Anti-Bullying programme.

Wearing hand decorated eye masks representing Wonder Woman, Supergirl, Batgirl, Black Widow, Elasti-girl, Spiderman, Ironman and Captain America, hundreds of students linked hands throughout the school building to highlight the importance of promoting an anti-bullying environment.

Ms Crena Shevlin, one of the teachers involved with the initiative, said: “Our Student Council has been involved in highlighting the ISPCC’s Shield My School programme to all our students for several years now.

“They came up with the superhero idea during a brainstorming meeting, we believe that the idea is unique to St. Raphaela’s and we’re delighted with the wonderful response it has received.”

Picture: Peter Houlihan

COURTS : DRAGGED WOMAN TO HOUSE BY HER HAIR

Four-year sentence for steel toe assault

GOT A PHOTO? WOULD LIKE TO FEATURE IN YOUR LOCAL PAPER? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 2 or email news@gazettegroup.com

A DUBLIN businessman who kicked a mother-of-two in the head with his steel toe shoe during a vicious assault has received a four year sentence.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Joseph Fraser (42) had been dating the woman for a few months when he drove to her home drunk.

Det Gda Robert Collins testified that the injured party hid Fraser’s car keys to prevent him from driving again and causing an accident.

Fraser got angry at this and began punching the woman in the ribs, face and head, in an attack which carried through the hallway and kitchen and into the back garden.

The father-of-six, of Mount Eagle Drive, Leopardstown, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm at Foxborough Downs, Lucan, Dublin, on September 19, 2017. He has two previous convictions for drunk driving.

Det Gda Collins told Ronan Kennedy BL, prosecuting, that the woman tried to lock herself into the dog cage in the garden to escape the assault.

Fraser dragged her back to the house by her hair, rammed her face off sliding doors and kicked her in the head with his steel toe shoe.

Judge Melanie Greally noted the “extreme violence” perpetrated by Fraser on his ex-partner.

She imposed a four year sentence with the final 18 months suspended, taking into consideration his guilty plea, excellent work history and his recent efforts to deal with his alcohol problems.

Tom Neville BL, defending, had submitted that a “confluence of events” had occurred in his client’s life leading up to the attack, including his Fraser Oil company failing, two relationship breakdowns and him seeking refuge with alcohol.

Judge Greally stated that Fraser was “no different to a very large number of people involved in business during the period in question”.

“That does not cut much in the way of mustard as a mitigating factor in a case of extreme violence”, she said.

Det Gda Collins said the injured party, in describing the attack, told gardaí that “on a scale of one to ten, the pain was 11”.

The woman eventually fled to a neighbour’s home to call gardaí.

After the assault, she realised her house key, car key, mobile phone and some personal items were missing.

Det Gda Collins handed photos to Judge Greally showing the woman’s injuries, including two black eyes and images of where Fraser had kicked the kitchen door in half. He said Fraser had been arrested on the

day for an unrelated public order matter and that during interview he claimed the injured party had attacked him.

The woman in her victim impact statement said she now rarely goes out to socialise and suffers flashbacks to the assault in her home.

She said the bruising to her leg lasted for months and that some loose skin on her eye had only recently gone away.

She described how the attack had also impacted her children and her parents. Det Gda Collins agreed with Mr Neville that the guilty plea had saved further distress to the woman and that her physical wounds had healed up since.

Mr Neville submitted that Fraser wished his letter of apology be conveyed to the injured party. Counsel outlined his client’s extensive working background and how he had set up Fraser Oil with his father.

Mr Neville said his client found himself in a “bad, bad place”, but acknowledged that his personal circumstances and serious mental health issues did not justify his actions.

Judge Greally suspended the final 18 months of the sentence on condition Fraser completes victim focused work and engages with MOVE (Men Overcoming Violent Emotions).

13 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 13 December 2018

TRANSPORT: LUAS JOURNEYS UP 25% ON GREEN LINE IN THE LAST YEAR

Speed up work on public transport, says Chamber RACHEL D’ARCY

A YEAR ON from the launch of Luas Cross City, a business group is calling on the government to continue investing in public transport.

This week marked the one year anniversary of the opening of the Cross City green line, which cost upwards of €365m.

Business group Dublin Chamber said that they believe that the introduction of Cross City has led to a 25% increase in the number of journeys on the green line in 2018 so far.

They have also said the enhancement of public transport options for those living within the

capital has led to a huge boost for shops and businesses in the city centre.

Dublin Chamber’s Head of Public Affairs, Graeme McQueen, said: “The number of journeys taken on the Green line this year will top 15 million.

“In 2018 so far, more than 14.7 million journeys have been taken on the Green line, up from 11.7m in the same period last year.

“Much of this increase can be attributed to the success of Luas Cross City.

“The opening of Luas Cross City has provided shops and businesses in the city with a huge boost.

“ I t ’s a l s o g r e a t l y enhanced the commuting options for thousands of

“

Congestion continues to erode quality of life in Dublin

workers in Dublin.

“The first year of operation has been very successful and you can see the number of people using the Luas between the c ity centre and Broombridge growing all the time.

“The construction of Luas Cross City involved a sizable bill and a significant amount of disruption, but now the city is reaping the rewards.”

Re m a r k i n g o n t h e success of the tramline, McQueen said that it’s ‘frustrating’ that work still hasn’t begun on any of the other major transport projects that are in the pipeline for Dublin, including BusConnects, a cycle network and Metro North.

Mc Q u e e n s a i d : “ If there’s one frustration following the completion of Luas Cross City, it’s that we’re still waiting for work to start on any of the other big transport proj-

This week marked the one year anniversary of the opening of Luas Cross City

ects mooted for Dublin.

“All the while, congestion continues to erode the quality of life in Dublin on a daily basis.

“The success of the Luas Cross City project makes a strong case for delivery of other muchneeded projects over the coming years, such as

Metro North, the Dart Expansion Scheme, BusConnects, a proper cycle network and more Luas lines.

“The speedy delivery of these projects is vital to secure the future of Dublin and ensure a high quality of life in the region.”

Volunteers are recognised for their incredible work COMMUNITY groups and volunteers across the county were recognised recently for the incredible work they do in their communities.

Now running for 23 years, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council held the Community and Volunteer Awards 2018 at Radisson Blu St Helen’s.

This year 51 community groups and 25 volunteers were formally recognised for their valuable contributions to community life.

The overall award went to the Dalkey Tidy Towns Committee.

Other winners included Central Dun Laoghaire Senior Citizens (Age Friendly), Dundrum Arts & Cultural Festival (Arts and Culture), Parents Making Children Aware (Child and Youth Development), Meadowbrook Residents Association (Community and Civic Pride), Glasthule Buildings (Environment), Purple House Cancer Support (Health and Wellbeing), Acquired Brain Injury Side by Side (Social Inclusion-Care Services), Open Spectrum (Social Inclusion-local Community Services).

Among the volunteer winners were Eddie and Kathleen Sythes, who have been running classes for people with learning difficulties at The Ski Club of Ireland in Kilternan, who received a volunteer award.

Sean Mc Loughlin also received a Volunteer Award in recognition of his work with

Donal Donnelly, Tidy District Committee Member, Meadowbrook and Father Joseph Mallin SJ

men’s sheds in dlr, and Ballinteer Men’s Shed collected third prize in the ‘Social Inclusion’ category on the night.

Speaking on the night, Cllr Ossian Smyth , Cathaoirleach of Dún LaoghaireRathdown County Council said: “These awards help to celebrate the excellent work achieved by our volunteers and groups of committed people working together, striving to make a difference in their respective communities.

“We are fortunate to have such talented and dedicated people across the county who give their time and energy to enhance the quality of life for our communities.

“The range of community activities is great and provides new opportunities for people to get involved in their Communities, learning new skills, meeting new people, and above all having fun while doing it.”

FASTNews ‘Be extra vigilant out shopping’

THERE’S a warning to be extra vigilant while out Christmas shopping after money was robbed out of a woman’s handbag at a local shopping centre.

A post on ‘Dublin 14 and 16 Burglaries’ Facebook page warned others about an incident at Nutgrove Shopping Centre where a woman was distressed after cash was robbed out of her bag.

An Garda Síochánaha recommend the following to protect yourself.

1. Take care when carrying your handbag, smart phone or tablet in crowded areas.

Keep them in a safe location, within view. 2. Watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas. Keep handbags zipped and don’t put your wallet in your back pocket. In bars and restaurants take care about where you store coats and handbags.

3. At ATMs only take out as much money as you need.

Cover your pin number and call the Gardaí if you believe the machine has been compromised. 4. Take care of your Christmas Shopping and never leave it unattended, especially in your car.

5. Park and lock your car in secure, well-lit areas keeping valuables including bags and coats hidden.

Further crime prevention advice is available on www. garda.ie.

Dundrum theatrical trip AN over 65’s Creative Theatre Group took locals on a theatrical trip through Dundrum village last weekend.

The group researched and wrote monologues for ‘Doone of the Drumes – Site Specific’ about characters associated with Dundrum and chose a location in the village specific to the character to perform the scenes.

This piece was made possible by Dun Laoighaire Rathdown County Council’s Creative Ireland fund and supported by dlr Mill Theatre.

13 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 13 December 2018

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Dalkey hairdressers celebrate first birthday D ALKEY’S Organic Italian Hairdressers recently celebrated its first birthday. Oi Organic Italian is owned and run by married couple Francesco Piccolo and Ivana Margarini.

The Dalkey salon is fitted out in natural and recycled materials,

Pictures: OLA KEARNEY

including rustic old pine counters.

Purchasing is from fair trade networks and eco-sustainable projects, everything is natural, recyclable or reusable including the hairdressing cape.

13 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Councillor Ossian Smyth, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council with pianist Elizabeth Hilliard and Alan Leech, choral director. Pictures: Peter Cavanagh

Heavenly D singing at dlr LexIcon

lr Arts Office presented the first public performance from the new County Workplace Choirs initiative last week.

Alan Leech, one of Ireland’s leading tenors and choral practitioners and Grace Bergin have been working with two choirs from workplaces in the County – one from Blackrock Further Education Institute and one from the HSE. Both choirs came together for the first time in this special performance in dlr LexIcon.

They were joined on the evening by members of dlr Sings and Dún LaoghaireRathdown County Council workplace choir.

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 December 2018

LOVE YOUR DUBLIN: THE BREAKDOWN OF SOME OF THE BEST SHOWS TO TAKE IN THIS CHRISTMAS

GIANTS, SNOW QUEENS AND DAMES, OH MY - IT COULD ONLY BE PANTO TIME AGAIN WITH DUBLIN’S FAMILY SHOWS

DUBLIN MADE EASY T

AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT CHRISTMAS PANTOS (OH YES IT IS)

IS the season to be jolly when Dublin families hit the theatres for their annual dose of panto.

Almost everyone who grew up in Dublin will remember the buzz of being brought to the Christmas panto and seeing crazy characters in outrageous costumes, dancing and singing and joking while the audience interacts with them.

Theatre snobs may look down on the time honoured panto but it is the first taste of theatre for many people, and brings great joy and pleasure when done well.

As an artform, pantomime can trace its roots back to the ancient Romans, but it was the Victorians who created the form of panto we know and love today by taking fairy tales and retelling them in a humorous way.

Well-performed pantomime can be brilliant, creating a special bond between performers and the audience. Here’s our verdict on three of the best Christmas pantos in Dublin...

THE CIVIC THEATRE

THE HELIX

THE GAIETY

HIGHLIGHT: Its impressive kid cast dancers

HIGHLIGHT: A brilliant fundraiser for sick kids

HIGHLIGHT: Guaranteed to wow

THE Civic’s panto in the heart of Tallaght this year is the ever hilarious Jack & The Beanstalk, a spectacular treat for the whole family.

Its cast includes YouTube sensation Enya Martin (Giz A Laugh) as the hilarious ‘Instafairy’, Sorcha Furlong as the evil Baroness (best known as Orla in Fair City), Morgan Crowley as Dame Dottie (a West End veteran and EastEnders actor).

Jack & The Beanstalk is now running until January 6 with two performances daily including seven schools’ shows and a sensory-friendly performance. A family ticket costs €55 with free parking in The Civic car park from 4pm; contact the Box Office at 01 462 7477

AT DCU, Robin Hood opened in the Helix at the end of last month, impressing audiences with all its usual wit, magic and fun.

Once again produced by TheatreworX Productions, the cast includes Ireland’s premier tenor Paul Byrom as the Sheriff of Nottingham, Chris Corroon as Dame Lola, Ciara Mackey as Maid Marion and Gavin Ryan as Robin Hood.

Best of all, 100% of the proceeds from this show will go directly to Temple Street Childrens University Hospital – last year’s panto raised €12,000!

Robin Hood runs until January 20 and tickets are €19.50. Call the Box Office at 01 700 7000.

LAST but definitely not least, The Gaiety has really outdone itself this year, as The Snow Queen is one of the coolest and funniest pantos in Dublin this Christmas.

Hosting Christmas pantos each year since 1873, The Gaiety is an old hand at staging superb shows, with this year’s stellar cast included West End star Louise Bowden as the Snow Queen, Nicholas Grennell as Jack Frost and Joe Conlan as a hilarious Panto Dame.

Tickets are on sale from €19.50 (including booking fee) from Ticketmaster outlets and the Box Office; see www.gaietytheatre.ie and www.ticketmaster.ie.

13 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

MAGAZINE

DUBLIN

DINO SHOW SURE TO BE A ROARING HIT... P24

LOOK AHEAD TO WHAT’S ON TV FOR CHRISTMAS P25

Make it Malta for Christmas P26

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

PANTOMINE CAST VISIT KIDS AT TEMPLE STREET CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL THERE was a magical surprise at Temple Street Children’s University Hospital recently, when the cast of The Helix Pantomime, Robin Hood arrived in character to spread some Christmas cheer this festive season among the young patients, families and staff.

Pictured are Jack Farrell meeting with Ciara Mackey as Maid Marion and Gavin Ryan as Robin Hood. Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 December 2018

FOOD&DRINK BUSINESS | IS IT TIME RESTAURANTS STARTED CHARGING DEPOSITS?

Think of the damage your careless ‘no-show’ can do REBECCA RYAN

ONE Dublin restauranteur who had a huge no-show at his restaurant on a usually busy Friday night recently has reignited the debate over whether restaurants should take deposits for bookings.

Social media posts went into a frenzy on November 30 when the owner of Michael’s in Mount Merrion, Gaz Smith, tweeted to say that he was “gutted” when 14 people failed to show up for their booking.

Gaz said: “We’ve just had a group of 14 cancel last minute for our early sitting, absolute nightmare. Nearly half of the restaurant. If anybody would like a last-minute table early this evening, we’d love to have you.

“I feel like I’m going to vomit, so gutted”, added the small restaurant’s owner.

It was not long before people got behind Gaz online to vent their disgust at the incident, and thankfully the “phone hopped” and the seats were filled.

One person even offered to make a donation to the restaurant.

Michael’s, Mount Merrion

Commenting on the kind gesture, Gaz said: “I’m not going to dwell on noshows tonight, not after your support, and look at this email – what a lovely, lovely gesture.”

Speaking to Dublin Gazette, Gaz said he was grateful for the support of the community and people online.

He said: “We were lucky to be able to turn last Friday night around, but that was due to lots of goodwill from locals and Twitter.

“The neighbourhood of Mount Merrion descended upon us as they have done in the past when the storm

hit us. We are so lucky to have been welcomed within the community here. It was very heart-warming!”

Gaz said that when people fail to show up for a booking it is a big hit for his restaurant and it makes him “nauseous”.

He said: “We’ve had a couple of cases recently of groups either cancelling very last minute or simply not turning up; this hurts us so badly.

“Losing a big group in a small suburban restaurant with barely any footfall means trying to fill those spaces last minute is a problem and having empty

tables on what should be a busy night has enormous ramifications, and can skew the [profit] margins for the month.”

Gaz added that it is getting to the point where he might have to take deposits.

“My hospitable side doesn’t want our first interaction with a guest to be asking for credit cards.

“However, a small independent like us can’t absorb the losses, and we will have to look into taking credit card deposits for larger groups.

“We hear stories of larger groups booking parties

at four or even five places, and then they decide on the day which one they all prefer. The thought of that makes me nauseous.

“I would love to live in a world where we don’t need to demand deposits, but it’s getting to the point that we’re left with no choice.”

He added: “Please, please, please don’t double-book; please call us if there are significant number changes or if you can’t make it. We really depend on it.”

The incident reignited the debate of should deposits be taken when booking a table in a restaurant, with social media posts jumping straight in to the debate.

One person wrote: “Enough is enough. Restaurants have to start taking a non-refundable deposit. This is people’s livelihoods we are talking about.”

Another pointed out that other industries suffer as a result of no-shows: “Deposits should become mandatory in the industry. [No-shows] will keep happening unless all restaurants come together to tackle it.”

Delight at fresh win for gourmet chain

Lorraine Heskin, Gourmet Food Parlour, Skerries

A RESTAURANT in Skerries has won big at the Fingal Business Excellence and CSR Awards..

The newly opened Gourmet Food Parlour branch won an award for Best Presented Business Premises, which recognised both the interior and exterior of the premises as well as the presentation of staff friendliness, quality of food and general ambience.

Owner Lorraine created GFP 12 years ago with the inspiration to serve a funky style of food, using simple, locally-sourced ingredients whilst serving it all

in a fun, relaxed way.

GFP locations include Dun Laoghaire, Swords, Skerries and Malahide, as well as a catering and events division.

Commenting on the win, GFP managing director Lorraine said: “Myself and the whole GFP team are extremely proud to win this award, especially as it’s for our new restaurant.

“I am so thankful to all the people in Skerries for their warm welcome and continued support.”

For further information on the eaterie, see gourmetfoodparlour.com.

Mince Pies to delight anyone KILKENNY, the home of Irish craft and design, is well-known for its Christmas offerings and one in particular – its signature mince pies.

From December 1 each year, Kilkenny sell on average more than 1,700 mince pies per week during the festive period.

The mince pies are made completely from scratch using Kilkenny Cafe chef Lynn Meehan’s family recipe, that has been passed down through the generations.

Preparation of the 100kgs of minced meat takes place in August as it takes four months for the mince to marinade in the premium ingredients, which includes 16 litres of Hennessy brandy.

Here we share with you Lynn’s recipe for marvellous Mince Pies.

Step 1: Make the pastry • 1kg plain flour • 175g sugar • Pinch of salt • 2 eggs • 500g butter • Zest of 2 oranges • Juice of 2 oranges Step 2:

• Evenly roll out the

pastry, cut out disks and place them into a lined pastry tin

Step 3: Kilkenny’s special minced meat • Fruit mix • 250g raisins • 100g mixed peel • 100g sultanas • 100g diced apple • 50g dried cherries chopped • 100g dried apricots

chopped

• 200g brown sugar • 200ml orange juice

freshly squeezed and strained • 250ml brandy (we recommend Hennessy) Step 4:

• Fill the pastry with a generous scoop

Step 5: Make the frangipane mix • 450g ground almonds • 350g icing sugar • 250g butter • 5 eggs Step 6:

• Pipe and spread the frangipane and bake for 20-25 minutes in a pre-heated oven at 160°C

13 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

FEATURES PEOPLE | LONG-TERM HOST DEFENDS THE CONTROVERSIAL PROPERTY-SHARING BUSINESS

‘Airbnb has helped us meet the world’ RACHEL D’ARCY

EARLIER this year, the Government proposed legislation aimed at tackling short-term rental site Airbnb in a bid to tackle the housing crisis.

The rental giant has become one of the focal points of the worsening crisis, with many slamming individuals who own entire homes solely to rent out on Airbnb.

However, a majority of the individuals who rent on Airbnb in Ireland let out rooms in their own family homes and rely upon the app to cover costs such as mortgages, school fees, bills and more.

“We’re hoping the new rules won’t have any impact on us as we rent out of the family home,” Danielle Vierling, an Airbnb renter in the Portobello area of the city, told Dublin Gazette.

“I got involved about five years ago, and at the time it was financially motivated as a lot of costs

in Dublin were quite high, so that was our incentive first of all.

“In the end, that’s what keeps us doing it – it’s the connection with people doing it.

“If it was just financial and you didn’t enjoy the

who’ve stayed with us – it makes you believe in the goodness of the world, and makes the world feel smaller, and that’s why we love doing it.

“People are sick and tired of staying in hotels; they want a human connection.

“We want to interact, we want to have friendly exchanges with our visitors, and some people want that over a hotel, which can be quite impersonal,” she added.

Danielle said that they’ve hosted people from all walks of life Airbnb host Danielle Vierling – from people visiting Ireland on holiday, people part, it wouldn’t be business people, to famiappropriate because we lies attending weddings, rent out part of the family sometimes even other home and we have chil- Irish people visiting the dren, and we don’t want capital. to just let anyone into the She said it’s a flexhouse. ible way for the family “As it turns out, the to make supplementary people have been abso- income, something that lutely fabulous. It really she’s concerned will be improves your view of the threatened under any community and the world new regulations. because there’s amazDanielle and her faming, interesting people ily rent out a basement

Danielle defended her Airbnb listing (above), citing it as a way not only to get some financial support, but to meet people from all over the world and all walks of life

apartment accessed through the home and a room in the house on a regular basis, turning to the service as a way of making extra income and for meeting new people.

She said: “I love the dif-

ferent people you get to meet through Airbnb.

“A lot of people that stay with us have told me that they choose Airbnb for a more personable experience, rather than a hotel where you might

not have a lot of personal contact.

“From a community standpoint, I really enjoy it. Airbnb is kind of a community building thing for me. I’ve lived in the area for eight years, I know all

the local businesses, and the businesses appreciate that I’m referring them all the time.

“The people who’ve stayed with us say they enjoy that local connection as well.”

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 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

C O N TA C T S Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@dublingazette.com

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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:

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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.

WHAT AN ICE LOOK: Bryan Dobson, Cystic Fibrosis ambassador joined Helen Somerville, SPAR marketing manager and Fergal Smyth, fundraising manager, Cystic Fibrosis Ireland at the launch of Christmas Jumper Day 4CF, supported by SPAR, with the trio creating a suitably colouful sight.

Taking place this Friday, December 14, companies are being asked to encourage their staff to wear their best Christmas jumper to work on the day – for a donation of €5, which will be sent to support Cystic Fibrosis Ireland’s work.

As Ireland has the highest rates of CF in the world, and some of the most severe types of the disease, Christmas Jumper Day 4CF promises to be a fun and festive way to help people with the disease. For further information, see www.cfireland.ie, or email fundraising@cfireland.ie.

CELEBRATING BOWIE A crafty way to have CALLING all Bowie fans – the Dublin Bowie Festival will celebrate 50 years of the original Space Oddity, with the festival’s programme aiming to encapsulate the profound influence and inspiration that Bowie had on both popular culture and art.

Topped by a heavyweight line-up of live music, the festival also includes movie and documentary screenings, Q&As, debates and discussions, literary events, fashion, fine art, merchandise markets, a quiz, karaoke and more.

Venues include the National Concert Hall, The Grand Social, The Olympia Theatre, The Academy, Ebow Gallery, The Lighthouse Cinema and many other creative spaces, all coming together to pay respects to one of the most important figures in our cultural history.

The festival runs from January 7-13, with tickets and more information available from dublinbowiefestival.ie/events.

fun and save money

LET your inner artist out and save money this Christmas by making your own cards at A Very Grainstore Christmas.

The Grainstore, dlr’s Youth Art facility in Cabinteely Park is sharing a little seasonal joy this Sunday, December 16.

There will be Christmas craft workshops for families with artist Tunde Toth where you can design and create your own cards and

decorations.

There will also be parent and children music workshops, a drop-in iPad workshop for young people, and a feast of music from some of the Grainstore’s groups.

The event starts at noon and is for children aged over five (children must be accompanied by adults).

For bookings, search eventbrite for A Very Grainstore Christmas, or email grainstoremanager@dlrcoco.ie.

13 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

SOME OF THE LATEST EVENTS TAKING PLACE IN DUBLIN

DIARY

Picture: Naoise Culhane

Vive Les Miserables

DOG OF THE WEEK

MUSICAL lovers are in for a treat as Les Misérables is now on at the the Bord Gais Theatre, until January 12.

Originally based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel, Le Misérables was turned into a musical by Alain Boubil with songs composed by

Claude-Michel Schönberg.

Cameron Mackintosh has produced a brilliant new staging of Les Mis that has travelled from Broadway to a number of cities around the United States, South America, Korea, Japan, Australia, Spain, France

and now Dublin, featuring classic songs such as, I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own, and Do You Hear the People Sing?

Tickets are priced from €26 to €74.50, and are available on the Bord Gais Website now.

DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Sheeba is a five-year old Pointer crossbreed which would make a wonderful addition to most families. She is a sweet, friendly dog which will try to say hello to everyone she meets on her walks. Since she doesn’t yet know how to greet people in a polite manner, she will require some impulse-control training. Sheeba is an active Pointer and will need plenty of exercise on a regular basis to keep her body and mind in good shape.

She would be best suited to a family that spends a good bit of time at home, as she struggles when left alone for longer periods of time.

If you have room in your heart and home for Sheeba 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.)

JOIN THE NYE PARTY CELEBRATE the final moments of 2018 with a bang under a canopy of sparks as the Liffey Lights Midnight Moment signals the end of 2018 and the arrival of the New Year.

This dazzling spectacle will be performed against the backdrop of the Custom House and features a thrilling choreography of lasers and aqua beams, with DJS and percussionists.

Tickets are also on sale now for the 3Countdown Concert at Custom House Quay.

Platinum-selling artist Gavin James will headline the 3Countdown Concert with special guests Hudson Taylor, Wild Youth and Inhaler.

Tickets – which include entry to the Liffey Lights Midnight Moment event – are priced €29.90, includ-

ing booking fee, and are on sale now from Ticketmaster outlets nationwide and ticketmaster.ie.

For additional information on all other NYF Dublin events, see www.

NYFDublin.com.

Keep up to date with news about all upcoming events by using the hashtag #NYFDublin and following @NYFDublin on Twitter and Instagram.

Red-dy to help others? IADT FILM STUDENT WINS THE iconic Coca-Cola’s Christmas Truck is coming to Tallaght, marking the last chance to catch the truck this year as it completes a nationwide journey.

It’ll be pulling in to The Square in Tallaght this Sunday, December 16 as part of its eighth annual road trip, with all proceeds from the sale of merchandise to be donated to St Vincent De

WARNER BROS SCHOLARSHIP

Paul. Look out for the unmistakeable truck at The Square from 2-8pm on Sunday.

WARNER BROS. IRELAND has awarded a scholarship to Sarah Ahern, an MA Screenwriting student at the National Film School at Dublin’s Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology.

The Warner Bros. Creative Talent scholarship will, over the

course of a year, provide Sarah with funding support and ashort, paid placement at Warner Bros.

Ireland’s Dublin offices, as well as access to screenings and mentoring supportfrom Warner Bros. executives in the country.

Previous Warner Bros. Crea-

tive Talent scholars, Allyn Quigley, Miriam Devitt, and Daniel Kelly, have gone on to enjoy success in TV and film.

Sarah is is currently the Projects Manager & Programmer at Virgin Media Dublin International Film Festival (VMDIFF).

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 December 2018

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Jane Hayes and Evelyn Walsh

Marie Jackson and Emma Cassidy

Sinead and Rhoda McDonagh Models Caoimhe O’Dwyer, Ursula Kelly and Kerri Nicole Blanc. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Denise and Geraldine Ashe

Breast Cancer Ireland hosts Christmas lunch O

Louise O’Regan and Amy Dunne

Laura Bowe and Orla Bleahen

VER 170 glamorous guests enjoyed the style and fashion at this year’s Breast Cancer Ireland Christmas Lunch in Marco Pierre White Courtyard Restaurant. The lunch kicked off with a champagne reception on arrival, followed by a 3-course lunch with a selection of wine.

The luncheon raised vital funds for Breast Cancer Ireland.

Juliette O Connell,Adrienne McCleen and Rachel Fitzgerald Feeley

Shoshanna Hayden, Aisling Sproul and Clodagh Holmes

13 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

WHAT’S BIG IN MUSIC, CINEMA, TV AND BOOKS

ENTERTAINMENT GOINGOUTOUT GOING

PICKWEEK OF THE

DECEMBER 17, 18

Christy Moore @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Christy seems to have been around since the Vikings popped over, but his sold-out gigs at Vicar Street show that his popularity hasn’t fallen back (unlike those Vikings, the lightweights). You’re in for a treat if you nabbed a ticket, with a great Christy gig guaranteed.

DECEMBER 13 (THURSDAY)

Dino show sure to be a roaring hit with Dubs THE BBC series Walking With Dinosaurs was surreal at times. Beautifully computer-generated and based on the best guesses of palaeontologists on dinosaur behaviour, it brought monolithic beasts to life in a way that had never truly been attempted before.

The series examined likely behaviours, and set dinosaurs in the environment they would have explored, recreating the battles and struggles that could have formed part of their lives, and topped it all off with some Attenborough-light commentary from Kenneth Branagh.

What a screen can’t do, however, is give a sense of imposing scale and physical melodrama whilst shooting through 200 million years of earth’s history.

The Arena Spectacular version of Walking With Dinosaurs has been tour-

 JAMES HENDICOTT

ing since 2007, undergoing several iterations and improvements along the way, and is aimed at more than just fans of the TV series.

We grabbed a preview of the show when it landed in Belfast earlier this year, and found Michaela Strachan, an iconic nature TV presenter, in charge of the storytelling aspect of the drama.

Strachan is the sole human ‘character’, and plays the role of a palaeontologist heading back in time, uncovering the progression of dinosaurs through history, and explaining a little of their existence as the life-sized beasts roam the stage before your eyes.

Her commentary

comes across as authentically wondrous, and she heavily interacts, leaping around the arena in her rimmed hat as she dodges dinosaurs’ interest, or hiding behind rocks to give whispered commentary as youngsters emerge delicately from eggs.

It’s the lumbering mechanical side of the show that’s the main draw, however, and it is startlingly impressive, drawing gasps as the bigger animals emerge onto the stage from behind the curtains that hide them.

The dinosaurs span the eras, and you’ll meet familiar favourites in the Stegosaurus and the T-rex, the Iguanodon and the Allosaurus, as well as some lesser known beasts.

All are true to scale, with some of the slowmoving herbivores stretching towards the rafters, while the more

rapid carnivores are imposing and aggressive.

There are tiny hatching eggs, battles over food, and interaction with a fast-changing territory, before the late-era beasts meet a dramatic end.

The larger dinosaurs move on wheels, set on large bases that ‘walk’ their legs in broad, sweeping movements. They strut, seemingly independently, across the ground.

At times they’re surrounded by a plethora of detailed small dinosaurs played by actors, who are able to leap and frolic at higher speeds.

The whole thing sounds like it should provide a few minutes of entertainment at most, but it runs deeper.

It’s brilliantly scripted, has eked out a plotline that’s a good mix of entertaining and educational, and wows with both its detail and its scale. Overall, the concept far out

does the various other dinosaur shows that have toured recently.

You could dismiss something like this as a kid’s show, and it certainly does hold a lot of appeal for children fixated with ancient lumbering lizards.

What impressed us most is that it’s also surprisingly strong on the more grown-up entertainment: there’s light comedy, a nice flow to the storyline, and the scale and detail of the dinosaurs is really quite impressive.

Not your typical Christmas entertainment, perhaps, but a genuinely memorable show with lots of educational detail, and a chunky, imaginative roar into the holiday season.

Walking With Dinosaurs runs for six shows at the 3Arena right before Christmas, on December 21, 22 and 23. Tickets start at €38.50.

YG @ The Olympia, €23 Ham Sandwich @ Whelan’s, SOLD OUT Ryan McMullan @ The Academy, €20 Siomha @ Whelan’s Upstairs, €12

DECEMBER 14 (FRIDAY) Ham Sandwich @ Whelan’s, €23 Local heroes play their annual Christmas shows at Whelan’s, guaranteed to be messy, melodic and wonderfully boisterous. Get in before they sell out.

2FM Xmas Ball - Hozier, Walking On Cars, Keywesy, Chasing Abbey @ 3Arena, SOLD OUT Greatest Hits of Motown @ Vicar Street, €39 Gypsies On The Autobahn @ Whelan’s Upstairs, €12

DECEMBER 15 (SATURDAY) Hozier @ The Olympia, SOLD OUT Ham Sandwich @ Whelan’s, €23 The Blades @ The Academy, €30 The Academic @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Bleeding Heart Pigeons @ Whelan’s Upstairs, €12

DECEMBER 16 (SUNDAY) The Academic @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Josh Groban @ 3Arena, €70 Hozier @ The Olympia, SOLD OUT Jerry Fish @ Whelan’s, €22 Rob Bochnik @Whelan’s Upstairs, €12

DECEMBER 17 (MONDAY) Flogging Molly @ The Academy, €32 Hudson Taylor @ Whelan’s, SOLD OUT Hozier @ The Olympia, SOLD OUT Christy Moore @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT

DECEMBER 18 (TUESDAY) Christy Moore @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Hudson Taylor @ Whelan’s, SOLD OUT Denzel Curry @ The Academy, €23 The Ruby Sessions @ Doyle’s, €7

DECEMBER 19 (WEDNESDAY) Glen Hansard @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Ash @ The Academy, €27 Northern Irish pop rockers bring the feel-good factor to The Academy, in a show sure to stoke the 90s nostalgia as well as explore some of the band’s newer efforts Hudson Taylor @ Whelan’s, SOLD OUT Amistat @ Whelan’s Upstairs, €15

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 December 2018

StillShowing...

ROBIN HOOD

Doesn’t hit the mark HERE comes the 347th attempt to make a good film about everybody’s favourite bad boy from Merrye Englande, Robin Hood (Cert 12A, 116 mins). Unfortunately, the end result is a fast-paced, kinetic mess, which turns Nottingham into some kind of mining-crazy industrial hell hole, Jame Foxx into an exposition-heavy Moor, and Taron Egerton into a Robin that it’s hard to root for. At least the film poster is lovely, though not the film.

THE GRINCH

Needs more humbugs WHAT can you say about The Grinch (Cert G, 90 mins) that’s never been said before? This animation looks to flesh out Dr Seuss’s most famous creation a little bit, without deviating much from the original, admittedly slight tale. The end result is a handsome looking film that should entertain small children, but will leave older minds as bored as the Grinch contemplating the annoyingly nice and happy citizens of Whoville below.

FANTASTIC BEASTS 2 Lacks a little magic

GOOD luck to everyone insisting on saying the full title of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (Cert 12A, 134 mins). It’s another dive back into some Potter-ish magic goings-on as the wizarding world again threatens the moral realm, building on the lore of the first film. It’s okay, but lacking the true magic of the Harry Potter films, despite the best efforts of its likeable cast.

Powerful performances abound in the Best Film – Drama nominations, including A Star is Born, Black Panther and Bohemian Rhapsody

Few surprises in Globes nods WHILE next year’s Oscars may have tripped on the red carpet with its choice of host (see panel below), the nominations for the upcoming Golden Globes in January passed by much more smoothly.

There were few surprises in the just revealed list of categories, with most of 2018’s biggest commercial and critical darlings making their way onto the list, which is still a decent barometer of how things tend to go at the Oscars months later.

While several of the nominated films haven’t made it to Irish shores just yet, many of them are known to audiences here, and most of the nominees won’t come as a surprise.

Many eyes are on Black Panther, following that film’s phenomenal global success this year, with nods in a few categories,

 SHANE DILLON

particularly for arguably the top award, Best motion Picture – Drama.

Crazy Rich Asians also nabbed a couple of nods in the categories, with that film, and Panther, suggesting that Hollywood is finally – belatedly – grasping that there’s a global market for good films with compelling characters drawn from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

In fact, four of the five Best Motion Picture – Drama nominees had stories or characters that are a little out of line with what you might call Standard White Westerner tropes, presenting some well received content.

Elsewhere, and bookies would have their work cut out for them with some of the names on the awards list – for example, who can make the call on whether A Star is Born is better than Bohemian Rhapsody, or Spike Lee’s provocative BlacKkKlansman, for example?

There are some tough choices in other categories, too, such as Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Music.

John C Reilly looks stunning as the beloved Oliver Hardy in Stan and Ollie; Christian Bale is similarly unrecognisable as warhawk Dick Cheney in Vice, and Robert Redford makes his cinematic swansong in The Old Man and The Gun. Moving on through some of the other categories, and while Glenn

SOME OF THE MAIN 2019 GOLDEN GLOBES NOMINATIONS Best film – Drama Black Panther BlacKkKlansman Bohemian Rhapsody If Beale Street Could Talk A Star Is Born Best Director Bradley Cooper – A Star Is Born Alfonso Cuaron – Roma Close’s star turn in The Wife looks like a certainty for the Best Actress under Drama award, Lady Gaga surprised and wowed with her star-making turn in A Star is Born (opposite an impressive Bradley Cooper, himself nominated for Best Actor under Drama).

An outside Best Actress bet would be Melissa McCarthy, who managed to make the abysmal The Happytime Murders in 2018 and yet also stole the show (and earned a Globe nod) as a

Peter Farrelly – Green Book Spike Lee – BlacKkKlansman Adam McKay – Vice

Rhapsody John David Washington – BlacKkKlansman

Best Actor – Drama Bradley Cooper – A Star Is Born Willem Dafoe – At Eternity’s Gate Lucas Hedges – Boy Erased Rami Malek – Bohemian

Best Actress – Drama Glenn Close – The Wife Lady Gaga – A Star Is Born Nicole Kidman – Destroyer Melissa McCarthy – Can You Ever Forgive Me? Rosamund Pike – A Private War

reluctant, frumpy forger in Can You Ever Forgive Me?, making her as ever an interesting star to follow.

Irish eyes will be wishing the best for The Favourite – the latest quirky film courtesy of Irish company Element Pictures.

The five nods attached to the film (a collaboration from The Lobster director Yorgos Lanthimos and Element) are a pretty strong endorsement for the film, which sees Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz’s char-

acters competing for the attention of Queen Anne – with the actresses simultaneously competing for a Best Supporting Actress award in a little nod at life imitiating art.

It’s good to see Olivia Colman also getting a nomination as the queen, in a rare reflection of the comic actress’s more serious chops.

You’ll easily find the full Golden Globes nominations for cinema and TV online, with the awards taking place on January 6.

Hart fiasco just another Oscars blunder WHILE there was plenty of interest in the Golden Globes nominations, culture vultures have continued circling around Kevin Hart following his ill-fated – and brief – stance as the 2019 Oscars host.

The comedian (right) lasted three days in place as the upcoming host before stepping down last week when a storm of criticism erupted over long-standing homophobic comments and jokes he’s made down the years.

Hart couldn’t quite manage to quietly step aside – a Martin Luther King Jr quote he used in a clumsy fashion irritated many people, leaving him seeming unable to do

right for doing wrong ...

Ultimately, the Hart incident draws attention to the Oscars powers that be – the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences – with the latest little drama underscoring that the Hollywood gods don’t quite seem to know what they’re doing any more.

After all, a cursory check of Hart’s material would have soon revealed him as a problematic host who’d be likely to draw criticism – which happened.

Let’s also not forget the Academy’s 2018 idea to introduce a Best Popular Film Oscar – a move which angered many

actors, studios and directors, forcing the idea to get quickly shelved.

Both were moves which were blunders on the Academy’s part, with both being obvious bad ideas that, oddly, the Academy still thought would be okay.

And if the Academy doesn’t really know what it’s doing, what’s the point of having the Oscars any more?

Oscar hosts come and go, often with good coverage, sometimes with bad, and Hart will continue being a popular comedian regardless of some of his ill-advised content.

However, a bigger issue is the malaise

within the Academy itself, as it continues making poor choices even as the Oscars’ power, viewership and relevancy continues to diminish.

With Oscar viewership figures now a fraction of what they were, and with changes in audience figures and statistics, the Academy really needs to make 2019 a turnaround year, and to make the Oscars relevant again.

Otherwise, the Academy has much bigger problems to worry about than just what host is probably a safe pair of hands to give the presenting gig to ...

13 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25

WHAT’S BIG IN MUSIC, CINEMA, TV AND BOOKS

ENTERTAINMENT

CHRISTMAS TV | LOOK AHEAD TO DIE HARD AND GRAHAM NORTON

QUIKFLIX FLIX Streaming highlights on the way

UK version of RuPaul’s Drag Race for BBC Three

There’s a huge selection of Christmas movies on Virgin Media One this Christmas, including Moonlight & Mistletoe.

Virgin Media One launch their Christmas Schedule RACHEL D’ARCY

VIRGIN Media Television will be delivering a whole host of festive programming specials and family favourite movies this Christmas.

The channel unveiled their Christmas schedule last week, and it’s set to be a treat for both young and old with a range of festive treats and retrospective looks at the year that was.

Soap addicts are getting some extra love this festive season, as Stephen Mulhern hosts the quiz that tests the stars

of Coronation Street and Emmerdale on their funniest, and most memorable soap moments of 2018 on ‘The Big Soap Quiz’ at 9pm on December 21.

Corrie lovers are in for a special treat with ‘Coronation Street: DNA Secrets revealed’ which will air at 8:30pm on Christmas Eve. In this one off, 90-minute special, Coronation Street’s DNA Secrets reveals the secrets lying deep in the DNA of one of the best-loved streets.

For fans of hit TV show The Chase, there’s a treat this Christmas as Bradley

Walsh hosts a very special edition of ‘The Celebrity Chase’ on December 26, as well as brand new ‘The Chase Bloopers Show’ with all the bits you were never meant to see in an hour long special on December 29 at 7pm.

If you’re still suffering from Love Island withdrawals, an early Christmas present is on the way in the form of a festive special where Caroline Flack reunites 19 of the most talked about Islanders in ‘Love Island The Reunion’ on Virgin Media Two on December 17 at 9pm.

The channel have got the whole family covered when it comes to movies with classics such as The Commitments, Marian Keyes Watermelon, Bridget Jones Diary, Night at the Museum, Chicken Run, Babe, The Wizard of Oz, Kung Fu Panda and Madagascar.

Music lovers are also being spoiled in the schedule, with specials such as ‘Happy Hour with Olly Murs’ on Virgin Media One at 9 on December 15; ‘Voice of Hope 2’, a special concert by Tommy Fleming on December 11 and

‘Celtic Woman: Ancient Land’ on December 16 at 6.05pm.

There will also be a look back at the most memorable parts of 2018, with Virgin Media rounding up what has been a memorable year with ‘Ireland’s Weather 2018: Climate Chaos’ airing on December 24 and ‘That Was 2018’ on December 28 at 9pm.

On December 31, ring in the New Year with Graham Norton as his special New Year’s Eve show, ‘The Graham Norton Show NYE 2018’, airs at 11.35pm.

IT WAS revealed last week that cult reality show, RuPaul’s Drag Race, is set to get a UK version in the New Year. The show will be delivered by BBC Three, the TV giant’s online channel platform, though it’s unclear if it will be streamed on a weekly basis like it’s US counterpart or available to binge all at once.

On the judging panel for the UK version - so far - are RuPaul himself and current Ireland’s Got Talent and US Drag Race judge Michelle Visage.

Visage has said numerous times she ‘wouldn’t rest’ until there was a UK version of the iconic show, which bagged RuPaul an Emmy award earlier on this year and has steadily grown in viewership.

RuPaul’s Drag Race sees a number of Drag Queens battle it out in various challenges and catwalk battles to be named the winner, with those in the final two each week strutting their stuff in a lip sync challenge in an effort to keep their place in the competition.

Drag Race US is currently on it’s 10th season. No premiere date has yet been set for the UK version.

Peaky Blinders cast actor Sam Claflin for new series FANS OF Peaky Blinders will be glued to the new series, as the Shelby family is in for a little shakeup.

The BBC have released a photo of brand new cast member Sam Clafin, who will feature in the fifth season of the show Netflix and BBC One. Clafin, who is known for his roles in the Hunger Games and Me Before You, isn’t the only new member of the cast for the next season however.

Joining him are Anna Taylor-Joy, Brian Gleeson. Neil Maskell, Kate Dickie, Cosmo Jarvis, Emmett J Scanlan, Elliot Cowan, Charlene McKenna, Andrew Koji, and Daryl McCormack.

The fifth season will be set in 1929, where the world is in upheaval from the stock market crash.

When Tommy Shelby is approached by a “charismatic politician (Claflin) with a bold vision for Britain,” it is clear his decisions will affect not just his own family, but the country as a whole.

Irish animated Christmas film showing on Netflix ANGELA’S CHRISTMAS, based on the popular children’s story from Irish author Frank McCourt, is now available on Netflix. The film created by Brown Bag Films, stars Ruth Negga in the role of Angela’s mother, and Lucy O’Connell as Angela. The film is written by Will Collins and Damien O’Connor and directed by Damien O’Connor.

Ellen McCourt, Frank’s widow, serves as an Executive Producer on the project and Malachy McCourt, Frank McCourt’s brother, an Irish-American actor, provides the narration. Set in Ireland in the early 1900s, it’s a heart-warming story about the power of family.

A sneak peak of some of the programming on Virgin Media One this Christmas, including Die Hard and a Dog Named Christmas

26 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 December 2018

TRAVEL

OUR EUROPEAN FRIENDS WILL WOW WITH FESTIVE FUN

Make it Malta for Christmas THIS Christmas, why not do something a bit different and experience the festive season in magical Malta?

Famous as a sun-kissed island where several civilisations have fused into a memorable melting pot, Christmas is also a mustsee time to visit.

Just a short three-anda-half-hour direct flight from Dublin with Ryanair, the Mediterranean island of Malta offers an ideal short-haul destination for those who wish to spend Christmas in the sun but not too far away from home.

The Christmas season is celebrated to its fullest on the Maltese Islands with many Nativity scenes, crib displays, carol services and other events

organised throughout the islands.

As just one example of a great deal, with Budget Travel, you can depart on December 22 and stay at the 4* Gillieru Harbour, St Paul’s Bay (room only) for €389pp; prices include flights, accommodation, taxes and transfer.

In fact, with Malta and Valletta’s popularity at this time of year, many tour operators have a range of offers to whisk you there for an unforgettable Christmas break – not to mention some early New Year deals too, of course.

Fro m t h e s ta r t o f December, Valletta’s waterfront has been transformed into a Christmas village with a mix of festive decor, music and

Bustling Christmas markets, colourful lights – and one of Europe’s most fascinating cultures, surrounded by architectural jewels – it must be Malta!

food.

Free activities underneath the 35-foot Christmas tree will delights any visitor, with bands, choirs and cribs along the promenade.

Balloon modelling, face painting, crafts, games, colouring-ins, meet and greets with Santa Claus,

puppet shows and bouncy castles are all on offer as the islanders and guests celebrate.

Visitors to Malta this month have already been treated to all kinds of Christmas treats, from parades to choirs – but the Christmas celebrations aren’t the only reason to

visit Malta as soon as you can.

This December see Malta’s capital city Valletta celebrating its successful year as the 2018 European Capital of Culture.

If you’re lucky enough to get a last-minute deal, the Valletta 2018 Clos-

ing Spectacular will take place this weekend, December 15, and will feature a spectacular line-up of live shows and music.

You can join guests, visitors, artists, curators, residents, Tal-Kultura volunteers and the Valletta 2018 team as they

celebrate a fantastic year with a closing event that pays tribute to the creative diversity that exists on Malta, Europe and beyond.

Visit www.maltaireland.com for further information and details of events that taking place in Malta this December.

Find unforgettable Christmas markets in Germany Lucie Weidenauer gives readers her tips about some of the Christmas Markets back in her native Germany, where many of Europe’s best such markets are found ...

Berlin Of course, Berlin has many different Christmas markets, but the one at the Red Town hall (“Rotes Rathaus”) is very special.

It has a skating rink, where lots of children and adults have fun every year, but also visitors can find many street performers, puppeteers and sto-

rytellers, and a particularly wide variety of delicious food.

Dresden This historic town has one of the oldest markets in Germany, the “Striezelmarkt” (right).

It’s called this because of a very special biscuit, once called “Striezel” but today known as the “Stollen”.

Every year on the second Advent day, an enormous Stollen is baked and then cut in a traditional ceremony.

Essen The Essen Christmas Market is very beautiful due to a shining LED tree

Dresden’s Striezelmarkt

right in its centre of it – but it’s actually famous because it’s an international Christmas market.

People from more than 20 different countries, and from different regions all across Germany, to sell their food and wares. Here you can find every-

thing from amber jewellery to Peruvian Potatoes!

Munich The Christkindlmarkt (Christ Child Market) is the most popular Christmas Market in Munich.

A highlight at this market is the Krampus Parade, with many people dressing up as the Krampus – the scary partner of Saint Nikolaus, who scares or even punishes naughty children!

Heidelberg This city in the south of Germany is mostly known for its famous castle above the town, but also for the Old

Historic Heidelberg

Town, where every year one of Germany’s most beautiful Christmas Markets take place.

With more than 140 stalls, the take place in many parts of the historic town, so wherever you go in the old town, Christmas delights await.

13 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

FESTIVE CHEER AND OTHER GEAR

HOME & STYLE

Glorious gifts for gentlemen RACHEL D’ARCY LOOKING to do some last minute shopping for the man in your life?

Have no fear River Island is here.

The high street retailer have unveiled a whole ho-ho-host of Christmas gifts that are perfect for partners,

fathers, brothers, grandfathers and more at affordable prices, available online and in River Island stores now.

From chunky jumpers to leather bags, products on offer range from around €8 for cufflinks, up to €50 for a faux fur hoodie. They also have some slightly quirkier

gifts available, including a ‘Grow Your Own Festive Sprouts’ set and a game called ‘Weird Things Humans Search For’.

If you’re looking to nab any of these gifts, act quick, as they’ll most definitely begin to fly off shelves as we approach the most Wonderful Time of the Year!

RIVER ISLAND Monogram flight bag, €25 RIVER ISLAND Red chunky knit cable knit jumper, €40

All ll of these style buys are available in store now from PEP&CO at Dealz stores nationwide

RIVER ISLAND Grow your Own Festive Sprouts set, €5

RIVER ISLAND Light brown gold tone face watch , €40

pep and christmas DEALZ’S own clothing brand PEP&CO have unveiled their winter collection, with a whole host of styles perfect for the Christmas season. From glitz and glam jumpsuits for work nights out, to matching pyjamas to all the family, there’s something for everyone in the family at a great price point.

Prices at PEP&CO range from as little as €2.50 for cool kid’s tshirts, right up to €32.50 for a parka, available for both men and women. PEP&CO is available at selected Dealz stores across Dublin, with more information available on Dealz’s website at dealz.ie.

Glowing like a (green) angel RIVER ISLAND White Christmas shower kit, €20

RIVER ISLAND Black faux fur zip front hoodie, €87

RIVER ISLAND Burgundy RI monogram belt, €17

THE EXPERTS at Green Angel have been creating exclusive seaweed and essential oil based skincare, spa and haircare products by hand in Ireland since 2005.

Green Angel candles (RRP €19.95) are hand poured in Ireland and are made from 100% soy, allowing for a cleaner burn than paraffin wax, while all feature a natural cotton wick. With no harsh chemicals or artificial colours they have an average burn time of 55 hours.

There’s also a matching allnatural diffuser (RRP €29.95). An flame free option, Green Angel diffusers use natural rattan reeds and emit a fragrance that will last for up to three months.

The Green Angel range includes two stunning scents: Lemongrass & Lime and White Linen.

The range is available at all good pharmacies and lifestyle shops across Dublin.

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 December 2018

MOTORS

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT

Marvellous MX-5 Mazda brings the fun

Some eye-catching stylings are the icing on a cake stuffed with impressive features

DECLAN GLYNN

MAZDA has launched a brand-new coupe-cumcabriolet derivative of its iconic sports car, the MX-5.

Called the MX-5 RF (Retractable Fastback), it is essentially an MX-5 with an electrically folding hardtop.

The idea to introduce the RF was in the plan from the very beginning, thanks in no small part to the fact that the previous-generation MX-5 Roadster Coupe accounted for almost 80% of sales.

It will come as no surprise to learn that the electrically folding hardtop on the new MX-5 RF is the car’s party piece.

When in place, it makes the car look like a coupe, but 13 seconds later the car transforms into a beautifully proportioned opentop sports car.

The Mazda MX-5 RF enhances the pure joy of driving with a superior power-to-weight ratio, rear-wheel drive and more comfort and technology than ever before.

Mazda’s signature KODO (Soul of Motion) design gives the new Mazda MX-5 RF a more aggressive and sculptured look, while retaining the classic coupe cues of a sleek bonnet, setback seating and a short rear overhang.

The all-new Mazda MX-5 RF has perfect 50:50 weight balance and a lower centre of gravity, giving it the advantage of responding precisely as the driver intends.

Mazda’s MX-5 is the world’s best-selling twoseat sports car, and it has earned iconic status in its 29-year history.

The new MX-5 RF is available with a choice of two SKYACTIV-G petrol engines – a 1.5-litre with 131bhp, and a 2.0-litre with 160bhp.

Chris Rea’s still got the best track for Christmas drivers IF YOU’VE already had more festive songs than you can take and are ready to go Christmas crackers at the merest tinkle of a sleigh bell – buckle up, as here comes a list of drivers’ favourite Christmas songs that they like to listen to as they go-ho-ho home at this time of year.

Motorcheck surveyed 1,000 drivers across Ireland to check out what Christmas choons they like the most, with few surprises revealed in the top favourites.

Chris Rea is still best for driving home for Christ-

Two trim levels are available – a standard RF and an RF GT. The RF model (only available with the 1.5-litre engine) is well equipped, with features including 16” alloy wheels, LED headlights, automatic air-conditioning, 7” touchscreen and a digital radio with six speakers.

You’ll also get Bluetooth, USB & AUX ports, multimedia commander, electric windows, dynamic stability control, front and side airbags, immobilizer, alarm and cruise control features.

Upgrade to the RF GT in 1.5-litre engine guise and you will also get adaptive front headlights, leather interior, and a lane-departure warning system.

That’s topped off with smart-key entry, rear parking sensors, heated seats, 16” Gun-Metal alloy wheels and a BOSE sound system with nine speakers.

And, on top of all this, if you opt for the RF GT

mas, Mariah’s inimitable yelping remains a hit with many, and good ol’ Shakey is still rockin’ around that tree, with a smattering of usual suspects also filling out the rest of the drivers’ favourites to listen to.

Alas, Gazette Motoring’s personal favourite (Elmo & Patsy’s 1978 classic, Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer) failed to make the cut. Better luck next year, Elmo & Patsy ...

The Mazda MX-5 RF has an undeniable wow factor, and its features also wow

with the 2.0-litre engine, you will also get Bilstein sports suspension, a strut tower bar, limited slip differential, body-coloured door mirrors and 17” alloy wheels!

On test this week was a Mazda MX-5 RF GT 2.0litre SKYACTIV-G, finished in stunning Soul Red metallic paintwork.

T h i s S KYAC T I V- G engine is punchy, sounds great and is well matched to the chassis.

A six-speed manual gearbox is standard and there is no automatic gear-

FACT BOX

1) Stunning hard-top retractable fastback 2) Excellent power-to-weight ratio 3) Latest SKYACTIV-G technology 4) 2 engines and 2 trim levels 5) Priced from €31,495 (ex-works)

box option available.

Annual road tax for the new MX-5 RF 1.5-litre is €390, while the 2.0-litre commands annual road tax of €570.

Fuel consumption as low as 6.1l/100km is possible on a combined driving cycle for the 1.5-litre engine, while this figure rises to 6.9l/100km for the 2.0-litre engine.

The 0-100km/h sprint can be completed in 8.6-seconds with the 1.5litre engine and in just 7.4-seconds in 2.0-litre guise.

Slim LED headlights and a gaping front grille give the MX-5 RF a slightly more aggressive character than its Roadster Coupe predecessor.

Whether the hard-top is up or down, the MX-5 RF has a classic silhouette, with the cockpit located

towards the rear of the car and a long bonnet stretching out in front.

The new Mazda MX-5 RF’s dash is dominated by an iPad-like, 7” touchscreen, controlled through a rotary dial on the centre console.

Underneath that there are three circular dials for the climate control. The instrument panel and air vents are designed to be perfectly symmetrical around the driver, for a cockpit-style feel.

Overall, the new MX-5 RF’s cabin is a pleasant place to spend hours of driving fun.

With prices starting at just €31,495 (ex-works) the new Mazda MX-5 RF provides drivers with an excellent fun-to-value ratio.

The RF GT 2.0-litre model on test is priced at €37,745.

Brexit, Sterling’s weakness affect new car registrations OFFICIAL statistics released on December 3 by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (S.I.M.I.) show that the total new car registrations for the month of November were down 5.72% (643) when compared to November 2017 (682).

Registrations this year are down 4.4% (125,415) on the same period last year (131,173), with some interesting figures revealed in the breakdowns of 2018 registrations, to date, as follows.

New light commercial vehicle registrations (LCV) have slightly decreased – some 1.55% (572) on November 2017 (581), although up 5.7% (25,340) this year.

New heavy commercial vehicles (HGV) have also seen a decrease of 38% for the month of November (80) when compared to the same month last year (129), although up 2.5% (2,538) this year.

Imported used cars have shown an increase 1.44% for November (8,732) when compared to November 2017 (8,608), while so far this year’s figure is 8.21% (95,148) ahead of 2017 (87,928).

Commenting on the figures, Alan Nolan, SIMI director genera, said: “As we approach the end of 2018 new vehicle registrations are in line with Industry projections. Our industry has experienced a decline in new car registrations some eight months out of 11 so far in 2018, and December will no doubt see a further fallback in new car registrations.

“The impact of Brexit and Sterling’s weakness continues to drive used car imports to a level where the volume is impacting on the new car market.

“This challenging and uncertain trading environment is set to continue into 2019,” he said.

13 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!

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13 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 33

FOOTBALL P36-37

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

USHERING IN NEW ERA: SNOOKER: FRESH from running Ron-

nie O’Sullivan extremely close at the UK Championship, Ken Doherty described seeing “green shoots of progress” last week, but also admitted he’s not quite sure how much longer he’ll remain on snooker’s full tour. His focus switches to the Masters tour and a return to Goff’s where his love for the sport developed no end.



GAZETTE

SOCCER P35

PAGE 34

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS BASKETBALL | REIGNING CHAMPS INTO NATIONAL CUP SEMI-FINALS

DCU show no Mercy to Glanmire  sport@dublingazette.com

DCU Mercy advanced to the semifinal of the ladies Hula Hoops National Basketball Cup with a comprehensive victory over UCC Glanmire over the weekend, grabbing a 77-40 point victory in second consecutive win over the Cork side.

The reigning champions stormed out of the blocks and put themselves hugely in control in the first quarter, with Sarah Woods, Samantha Hyslip and Aine McDonnell all on form as DCU established a domineering 27-6 lead.

Glanmire did hit back slightly, pulling DCU back by a couple of points to 43-24 by halftime after a much improved second quarter, but the Cork side could only hit four points in the third quarter as DCU upped their game and put the contest to bed early.

Following the game, DCU coach Mark Ingle said “in the cup it’s just about getting through, whether it’s by

one point or ten points, but I think in the first quarter we played exceptional basketball and really moved the ball well.

“Glanmire, I think they were chasing the game after that. They are a young team but I think we’re young enough as well. We’re young enough with a lot of experience, they have a lot of basketball in them.

“Our defence was good as well,” the coach added. “I think under ten points for that first quarter. They’re the sort of team that come back at you with runs.

We expected, and prepared like we’d lost by 20 last week. We had a good win over them last week, and a good win this week. We’re looking forward to the challenge of Father Matthews next week [in the league] and Liffey in the semi finals.”

As Ingle said, DCU will face Courtyard Liffey Celtics in the semifinal in January, after their rivals overcame Maxol WIT Wildcards 68-56 in a far tighter contest, to continue a promis-

DCU Saints Sarah Woods was in super form. Picture: Eoin Noonan/Sportsfile

ing unbeaten early season.

The pair will be joined in the last four by an all Cork other half of the draw, in which Singleton SuperValu Brunell and Fr Mathews face off in the New Year.

In the men’s Super League, C & S Neptune made it four wins on the bounce, winning away to Griffith College Swords Thunder 84-92.

Lehmon Colbert, Darragh O’Sullivan and Cian Heaphy combined for 71 of the total 92 points scored on the evening.

Templeogue had the better of Moycullen, DCU Saints pipped Keane’s SuperValu Killorglin in a nail-biter in Dublin, while Pyrobel Killester got the better of UCC Demons at the IWA in Clontarf.

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 13 December 2018

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

1

BALLINTEER ST. JOHN’S THIS Saturday we have the Annual Parish Cup competition on the AWP starting 1pm. Open to all registered players over 18. Area player managers are Colm O’Donnell, Feargal Duffy, Aidan Field, Frankie Ward and Dermot Kennedy. For further info contact Kieran Duffy 0868519542.

Looking for Christmas Gifts? Why not call to our Club Shop to view extensive range of gear at the Clubhouse. Open Thursday 7.30pm-8.30pm & Saturday from 11.30am-12.30pm.

Congratulations to Seamus Farrelly on his appointment to the inter-county referee panel.

Christmas Party for BSJ Nursery on Saturday December 15th. Deirtear go mbeidh Daidi na Nollag ann chomh maith.

Christmas Bingo special on Monday 17th Dec. Followed by entertainment with the F&T group.

LOTTO Dec 6th: Lotto A: 2, 6, 15, 24. No Winner.

Lotto B: 6, 10, 18, 22. No Winner. €100: Phil Wilson €50: Maudie Donohue & Rian Feely. Joker Consolation Luke Naughton. Joker next week €500.

CUALA THE Cuala football section held its annual awards night on Saturday evening in the clubhouse. There was an excellent turnout for this event from the four adult teams, their team mentors and the football committee.

The much prized Player of the Year titles – awarded by the players themselves to the footballer whom they consider to have had a consistently outstanding performance over the season – went this year to

Player of the Match Katie Murray Paul Lehane (4th Team),and Captain Sarah Oisin Murphy (3rd Team),after Murphy Neil O’SullivanClontarf’s (2nd Team)Ladies IFC win.. and Niall O;Callaghan (Senior Team).Picture: GAApics. com

Well done to this year’s recipients and the the football section overall for a really great year – some serious work put in both on and off the pitch by everyone involved!

(Everyone there were very pleased that this event was held at HQ with a fair bit of craic, banter and grub!)

SNOOKER: RANELAGH ACE TO DECIDE NEXT STEP SOON

Doherty ushers in Masters at Goff’s

Former world snooker champion set to return to Goffs in the New Year for Irish Masters Snooker Championships, embracing a venue that holds a very special place in developing his love of the game

 JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

FRESH from running Ronnie O’Sullivan extremely close at the UK Championship, Ken Doherty described seeing “green shoots of progress” last week, but also admitted he’s not quite sure how much longer he’ll remain on snooker’s full tour.

Former World Snooker Champion Doherty, from Ranelagh, came within a couple of shots of defeating the supremely talented world number three in York.

Nonetheless, he’ll wait until the end of the year to make a decision on whether he wants to continue on the tour, and is looking forward to playing the masters games that now lie ahead of him.

Those include a return to County Kildare’s Goffs on Janu-

ary 5 and 6 where Doherty worked as an usher as a teenager and watched several of his heroes.

“It’s nostalgic for me, yeah, it’s a special place,” Doherty told the Dublin Gazette of the venue.

“I didn’t do much work when I was there,” he jokes. “I was meant to be showing people to their seats but I usually just watched the games. I met Alex Higgins for the first time, one of my heroes.

“I was getting his drinks and he told me if he asked for an orange juice, that meant a vodka and orange juice, and that if he asked for a vodka and orange juice, that meant a double.”

Doherty’s enthusiasm for the masters tour is immediately evident. “It’s great fun,” he says, “Like a breath of fresh air. You never lose that competitive spir-

it, and people like Jimmy White and Stephen Hendry, we still get a kick out of playing. It’s really well supported, and we get to play at places like The Crucible,

“

You never lose that competitive spirit; people like Jimmy White and Stephen Hendry, we still get a kick out of playing

”

too. It’ll only grow, especially as people like Joe Swail and James Wattana come on board in the

KILMACUD CROKES HARD luck to the Senior Footballers who lost in the Leinster Final. Best of luck to St. Columba’s Mullinalaghta in the All-Ireland series!

Many thanks to all who supported our football section Leinster Championship Final fundraising pub quiz. Great attendance and support and a fun night had by all. Special word of thanks to our club hurling section chairman Peter Walsh who was our quiz master and did a fabulous job - very much appreciated.

Well done to the members of the Kilmacud Crokes Choir who sang their hearts out on a cold and wintry morning Saturday December 8th in Stillorgan Shopping center. All funds collected were in support of the Blackrock and Harold’s Cross Hospice.

Volunteers - KGSC has responsibility for the Kilmacud Crokes Clubhouse (incorporating Clubhouse, Kilmacs Bar, Tennis & Snooker Club) and Grounds.

If you are interested in supporting the provision of existing services (Bar and facilities) or developing into new areas we would love to hear from you. Our existing team comprises members with varying types of experience (grounds management, engineering, accountancy, sales and marketing operations, legal & IT skills). We would welcome support from others who are prepared to become practically involved in this great Club.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please email info@glenalbyn.ie Ken Doherty says he can still turn it on against the big guns like Ronnie O’Sullivan

next few years.”

Doherty’s game, he says, is not quite what it once was, but he has his days. “I can still do it on a good day, occasionally, as I think the game with Ronnie showed,” he says. “I think 1997 Ken could probably give 2018 Ken a head start of about 14, 18 points. On my day, though, I still have it, and I might cause a big upset.”

O’Sullivan’s win was followed by a debate over the format of the snooker championship, which O’Sullivan feels is too demanding. Doherty emphatically disagrees. “You don’t have to play every tournament, it’s not that tough,” the Dubliner says.

“You only have to play maybe ten tournaments in a year. There were some good ideas in there.

You could look at averaging out the best ten tournaments, for example, but you either want to play or you don’t.”

While perhaps not at the highest level for much longer, Doherty quite definitely still wants to play. We take a moment to slip into nostalgia, and he recalls his 1997 World Snooker Championship with obvious enthusiasm.

“There was no crime in Dublin for three hours,” he laughs. “It was the first time that RTE had televised the snooker and half the country didn’t have the BBC back then. I got an open top bus tour when I got back to the city, which was something else.”

“I was lucky, as I grew up next to Jason’s in Ranelagh, and I used to go in and play until my tea was ready as a kid. Sometimes I’d go back afterwards.

Now I have my own little hall in Terenure, with a few tables.”

It just might be nearing its top-tier conclusion, but for Doherty, it’s been quite the ride.

The Irish Masters Snooker Championships takes place at Goffs in Kill, County Kildare on January 5 and 6.

Tickets are available via Ticketmaster.

13 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 35

SOCCER: FIRST WIN OF SUNDAY SENIOR 1 CAMPAIGN FOR TEK

TEK boss upbeat for 2019

LOI SHORTS

LSL SUNDAY SENIOR 1 Drumcondra/Stella Maris TEK United  DAVE DONNELLY sport@dublingazette.com

1 2

TEK United manager Les Flynn says he would have feared for his side’s chances of staying up had they not secured a vital three points away to Drumcondra on Friday night.

It’s been a long time coming but the Stradbrook club’s first win of the season lifted them out of the relegation zone of the first time since August.

TEK had lost just one of their previous five league games going into the tie at Dublin Port Authority Stadium but were neck and neck with Drums with a game more played.

Robbie Mullen and Paddy Byrne put TEK two goals to the good within 15 minutes and they held out despite Joss Heffernan pulling a goal back for Drums to set up a nervy finish.

The visitors hit the front within minutes of kick-off as Mullen was first to react when a shot rebounded off the post, and he tucked away the loose ball with his left foot.

The second goal wasn’t long in coming after a brilliant run from Brian Horgan saw him beat three men on the right and square for striker Byrne to slot into an empty net from three

UCD Wave goodbye DLR Waves will once again contest the Women’s National League after UCD withdrew support for the club after four-and-a-half years.

Waves, who are supported by Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council, will re-enter the league in 2019 after the license was transferred to a South Dublin consortium.

Former Bray Wanderers caretaker manager, and longtime St Joseph’s Boys coach, Graham Kelly has been announced as manager in place of Noel Kealy.

TEK United’s LSL Sunday Senior 1 side

yards.

TEK, playing into the wind, were in their element against a side thumped 10-1 by Maynooth University Town two weeks earlier and they looked to press home their dominance.

They hit the post twice more in the run-up to half time, but Drums rocked back with a goal of their own before half time as Heffernan finished smartly.

“It was more of a must-win for us than them, to be honest,” Flynn told the Dublin Gazette.

“I would have feared if we’d lost Friday, and that’s being honest. If we had have lost Friday, I would have said to myself ‘we’re in big trouble’. That three points is huge for us.

“It’s our first win of the season and hopefully when we

come back we can start motoring again.

“We finished strong last year – I think we finished fifth or sixth.

I’d be happy now if you told me we were going to finish one place above relegation.”

TEK have paid the price for a stuttering start to the season, which started brightly as they raced into a 2-0 lead against Glenville on the opening day.

They were fortunate to escape with a draw that day, and then went on a five-game losing streak from which their confidence is only now beginning to recover.

“We had a great pre-season.

We entered a couple of tournaments, and won the Pats CY tournament. We were looking good.

“In the first game we went 2-0 up against Glenville and you’re thinking ‘this is great’. Then all of a sudden we hit the skids, and the skids affected us for about two or three months.”

It hasn’t all been bad for TEK – the first game back in January sees them travel to Tullamore Town for a last 16 tie and are also still in the Noel Ryan Cup. They will likely have to tackle that game without striker Shane Barnes, who is set to return for a second stint in the League of Ireland, but Flynn hopes to add a couple of players.

“For the first time since I’ve been at TEK, we’re still in two cup competitions after Christmas. It’s not all doom and gloom.

It’s been a tough few months but we’re getting there.”

Respects paid to sports journalist Colm Smith  PJ CUNNINGHAM

COLM Smith was a journalist from the old school – he wrote what he saw and for decades his insights were a staple diet for readers of the Irish Independent and other newspapers in the Indo Group.

He was such a skilled person in developing relationships both with players and fans that he managed to straddle the dual roles of honesty and popularity with all those he encountered. For above all else,‘Smithy’was a genuinely likeable person who was the sort of company you sought out on social

occasions. He always had a story to tell – and his gift was that whether in writing or in coversation, he could tell it darn well.

He could report on any sport but golf, rugby and tennis had a special place in his heart. For years, he used his own standing as an interprovincial tennis player to give readers a rare inside view as to what was required to compete at elite level in sport.

Colm travelled the world covering golf and rugby with the Lions Tour of South Africa 1974 a particular highlight of his long and distinguished journalistic career.

Well-known in the communities across south Dublin but particularly in Goatstown and Leopardstown, Colm loved his beloved native city – often saying it had everything from mountain to sea to keep its denizens happy.

A large circle of family, friends and former colleagues turned out at the Church of the Holy Cross, Dundrum on Monday (Dec 3) to attend his funeral mass which was followed by his burial in Shanganagh Cemetery.

Over the past number of years, Colm’s failing health condition meant he was cared for wonder-

fully by the staff at Sen Remo Nursing Home in Bray. He was the beloved husband of the late Helen Lennon and previously of Joan, and is survived by

Colm Smith

his loving children John, Mary and Susan as well as 10 grandchildren, relatives and friends.

Ar dehis De go raibh a anam.

BOHS NEW SIGNINGS FORMER Aston Villa defender James Finnerty and ex-Brighton midfielder Daniel Mandroiu will line out for Bohemians next year as Keith Long continues rebuilding at Dalymount Park.

Bohs were hit by a spate of departures at season’s end, not least the forced retirement of goalkeeper Shane Supple due to a hip injury.

The Phibsboro club have brought in goalkeeper Niall Corbet in Supple’s place, while versatile defender Michael Barker has arrived from St Patrick’s Athletic.

“There is a big void to fill with Shane Supple retiring, but Niall and James Talbot are two excellent keepers who I believe will push one another,” said Long.

Defender Paddy Kirk, winger Kevin Devaney and striker Ryan Swan have also put pen to paper on new deals as Long’s squad swells to 20 ahead of the new season.

That includes full-back Andy Lyons, who has been on trial with Wolverhampton Wanderers, but not striker Ali Reghba, who may sign back in spite of Premier League interest.

Byrne swaps Kilmarnock for Rovers SHAMROCK ROVERS pulled off the highest-profile transfer of the winter with the addition of former Manchester City and Ireland under-21 midfielder Jack Byrne.

The 22-year-old, who was called up to the Irish senior squad as recently as 2016, arrives after leaving Kilmarnock by mutual consent.

Playmaker Byrne was part of the Man City side that reached the quarterfinals of the UEFA Youth League in 201314, and scored six goals in eight games the following season.

The Dubliner spent a successful year on loan with Cambuur in the Dutch Eredivisie, but after another loan with Blackburn Rovers he joined Wigan Athletic in 2017.

Short spells with Wigan, Oldham Athletic and Kilmarnock didn’t work out, and the former St Kevin’s Boys schoolboy made the decision to return home.

“When the opportunity came to sign for Shamrock Rovers I snapped the hand off,” Byrne said.

36 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 13 December 2018

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

GERALDINE P MORAN

2

DUBLIN Ladies Star Lauren Magee visited Guardian Angels National School and Monkstown Educate Together National School with her best friend the Brendan Martin Cup on Friday. Hopefully she inspired some future Dublin players with her visit.

No winner in this week’s draw, next week the jackpot is a cool €2k. Our lucky dip winners are John Hudson and Ian Lydon, congratulations to you both. Thanks to all who play our lotto and support the club.

NAOMH OLAF THE Christmas Lotto Draw takes place in the Club Bar on the evening Saturday 15th December. Loads of fabulous prizes to be won so get your tickets early!

Thanks to Jenny and Sarah for all their hard work in organising a fabulous Christmas Dinner Dance last Saturday. A great night was had by all with plenty of tired feet from dancing until the wee small hours!

The Academy finishes for the year on the 15th December with a visit from the big man himself.

Congratulations to Ber O’Shea on winning a Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council “Community Volunteer Award” which was presented to her at a recent function in the Radisson Blu Hotel in

Stillorgan. Ber received the award in recognition of the outstanding contribution she has made in her leading role in the Balally Parish Hospitality Group. Ber and her family are life long members of Naomh Olaf GAA Club.

Don’t forget to pop along to Naomh Olaf on Fridays for the fabulous Farmers Market from 9am until 2pm.

Farm fresh produce for all to enjoy!

Mass for deceased Club members will take place on Sunday 16th December at 12pm at the Church of the Ascension of the Lord, Balally.

There was no winner of last Sunday’s Lotto draw. Don’t forget that you can sign up online to play - www. naomholaf.ie

SHANKILL

THE Juvenile Academy Sponsored by O Donnell’s Pharmacy is in action every Saturday at 10.00am in the gym in St Laurence College. Please come along and give the Academy a try. The cost is €2 per child each week . Please note the Academy is taking its winter break and will return on Saturday 2nd February 2019.

Great excitement as Santa arrived at the Academy and has a present for every girl and boy. Well done Santa.

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.

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. Next draw after Christmas. Tickets are €2 each or 3 for €5 available in the pub or from club members.

LADIES FOOTBALL: SECOND FINAL LOSS IN THREE YEARS

Fox-Cab come unstuck to impressive Mourneabbey at last hurdle ALL-IRELAND LGFA SFC FINAL Mourneabbey (Cork) 1-13 Foxrock Cabinteely 1-7  CÓILÍN DUFFY sport@dublingazette.com

A STRONG Mourneabbey start coupled with an early sin-binning for Emma McDonagh m a d e l i fe to u g h fo r Foxrock-Cabinteely, as Mourneabbey went on to deliver their first ever All-Ireland Senior Ladies Club Football title on a tough evening weatherwise at Parnell Park on Saturday night.

Battling against the elements wasn’t all that Pat Ring’s charges had to do, especially during the opening half, as Mourneabbey launched attack after attack and made life tough for the South Dublin side.

It wasn’t surprising that the Cork and Munster Champions delivered a solid display in front of the posts, and led by 0-8 to 0-1 after 14 minutes.

Ju s t t wo o f t h o s e p o i n t s c o m i n g f ro m placed balls, as they took some excellent scores from play during this spell.

Fresh from picking up an All-Star the previous Saturday, Doireann O’Sullivan opened

Mourneabbey’s account after 26 seconds, a sign of things to come from her side.

Within five minutes she had her sides third p o i n t o n t h e b o a rd .

Foxrock-Cabinteely now down to 14 players, after a sin-binning for McDonagh, following a foul on Aisling O’Sullivan.

Amy Connolly replied from a free for Foxrock Cabinteely after their first real attack, to open their account.

Foxrock’s attacking chances were limited during the opening quarter, as Mourneabbey added five points unanswered with O’Sullivan, Laura Fitzgerald and 17-year old Ellie Jack on target.

Hannah O’Neill registered the Dublin and Leinster winners, first score in 10 minutes, with a well-worked point from play, and while Amy Ring ensured back-to-back scores 11 minutes before the break, Mourneabbey gave their opponents little change.

The ir captain Bríd O’Sullivan had her goal shot saved by FoxrockCabinteely keeper Aisling Tarpey, before O’Sullivan sisters Doireann and Ciara added

three points between them to open up an eight-point margin.

Mourneabbey capitalised on a poor kick-out

by Tarpey before Laura Fitzgerald bagged the only goal of the evening.

This was followed from the resulting kick-out with Fiona Claffey finishing to the top corner for Foxrock-Cabinteely, before Ciara O’Sullivan claimed her second point to ensure a 1-12 to 1-13 interval lead.

On the restart FoxrockCabinteely promised much, an d settled thanks to an early Sinead

Goldrick score.

H o w e v e r, t h e y wouldn’t score again for another 21 minutes, with defences very much on top in the second period.

Mourneabbey could have been home and hosed in the 40th minute after being twice denied of a goal by the crossbar, with Eimear Harrington and Ciara O’Sullivan both going for goal.

Harrington also missed a 44th minute penalty, losing her footing as she stepped up to take the place-kick.

Bríd O’Sullivan was sin-binned with 13 min-

utes remaining, but it mattered little with Mourneabbey scoring their first point of the half with 11 and a half minutes remaining.

Foxrock Cabinteely never gave up with Amy Ring taking a trio of points, all from placed balls.

This was too late for the South Dublin side, as time ran out and Mourneabbey claimed a richly deserved sixpoint win ensuring they became the first club to win All-Ireland Senior, Intermediate and Junior titles.

Ring proud despite final defeat

STARS OF ERIN OUR Adult teams are recruiting now for new players on both the ladies and men’s team for 2019. Based in Glencullen beside Johnnie Foxes pub. Just 10 mins from Stepaside.

Stars would like wish a massive congratulations to club member Lewis Mooney and his wife Jessica on the birth of their first child, Finn William Mooney.

Congratulations to Stars Ladies player Deirdre Meegan who has been selected to represent Stars of Erin in the Junior Dubs Stars match in January. Wishing Deirdre the best of luck from all at Stars.

Lorna Fusciardi of Foxrock-Cabinteely puts in a block on Eimear Harrington during the All-Ireland Ladies Football Senior Club Championship Final at Parnell Park Picture:Stephen McCarthy/SPORTSFILE

Foxrock-Cabinteely manager Pat Ring watches Saturday’s Final.

Picture:Stephen McCarthy/SPORTSFILE

FOXROCK-CABINTEELY Manager Pat Ring was proud of his charges, despite losing Saturday’s AllIreland decider at Parnell Park.

“To be fair to our team, we know we are a very good team,” he told the Dublin Gazette.

“We just didn’t do ourselves justice out there tonight. You don’t win four Dublin Championships in-a-row and four Leinster’s, without being a good team.

“We are up there with the best of them. Tonight we didn’t perform.

“I’ve been saying it all week that whoever per-

forms will win, and Mourneabbey performed and we were below par and you can’t do that at this level.

“I want to pay compliment to the girls, they gave everything all year. They gave us everything that we asked of them to do.”

Ring says that there’s no doubt that Mourneabbey were deserving winners.

“Our players are very philosophical about it themselves, they know they were beaten by a better team. We were beaten by a far better team and there’s no arguments whatsoever.”

13 December 2018 SOUTH  DUBLIN GAZETTE 37

GAELIC FOOTBALL: LONGFORD CHAMPIONS SHOCK CROKES IN LEINSTER DECIDER

Crokes stunned as Longford side become legends AIB LEINSTER SENIOR CLUB FOOTBALL FINAL St. Columba’s Mullinalaghta (Longford) 1-08 Kilmacud Crokes 1-06  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

K I L M AC U D C RO K E S were stunned by rural Longford club St Columba’s of Mullinalaghta in the Leinster senior club football final in Tullamore on Sunday afternoon, as the Dublin champions fell at Leinster’s final hurdle.

Crokes looked set to have seen off the Longford side, though slightly unconvincingly, when they led by three points with just four minutes left on the clock. In the low scoring contest, the Longford club hit 1-2 in the closing stages to turn the game on its head.

Most had Crokes as strong favourites, but they were harried and hustled by the Longford side, a club with around 100 adult players, and whose cornerback Conan Brady has been commut-

ing from the UK to play for the past eight years.

The Mullinalaghta side become the first side from Longford ever to win the Leinster title.

The game was very much in the tradition of tight December contests: marred slightly by harsh conditions, with key men like Dublin forward Paul Mannion (who failed to score from play) having quiet contests.

Things had seemed to be going very much according to the script when Pat Burke scored for Kilmacud inside the first five minutes, after Columba’s had taken an early lead. In a game characterised by great tackling from St Columba’s and ebbs and flows in the contest, Crokes could add only a couple of points - from a Mannion free and Callum Pearson - to Burke’s goal for the remainder of the half.

Rian Brady was the key man at up top for Mullinalaghta, though it was the midfield that did much of the damage against struggling

Crokes. Brady, plus points from Donal McElligott and David McGivney had the teams level by half time, 1-2 to 0-5.

S t Co l u m b a’s h a d their own fallow period, though, for a full half of the game. They failed to score from play between the 20th minute and the 50th. In the normal course of events, this would be more than enough to see Crokes out of sight, but the harrying and hastling in midfield had kept the favourites within reach.

Crokes had taken an element of control going into the middle of the second period, however, and Pearson, another Mannion free and Craig Dias had them a couple of points in front, Burke helping to maintain the gap with a fine point from a tight angle.

Questions can be asked of the Crokes strategy at the end, but perhaps picking holes if unfair in that it undermines the quality of St Columba’s efforts in the closing stages. Nevertheless,

leading by a couple of points, rather than go for the jugular, the Dublin side threw the ball around and appeared to be looking to kill the game on the clock.

Columba’s won a gamechanging penalty for a foul by Cian O’Sullivan on Aidan McElligott in the area. O’Sullivan was sent off for a second yellow card, while Nestor who had saved a penalty in the semifinal late on could do nothing to stop Gary Rogers from smashing home.

With Crokes now needing a point to save the game, instead, Columba’s got the ball from the next kick out, and McElligott upped the margin to two points, securing the contest in the closing stages at 1-8 to 1-6.

C ro ke s w i l l s e e a missed opportunity, but for St Columba’s, the win in front of a crowd of 3,500 is easily the biggest in the club’s history.

They play Kerry’s Dr Crokes in the All Ireland semi final in the New Year.

Deserved win for Mullinalaghta says Brennan  CÓILÍN DUFFY

sport@dublingazette.com

JOINT Kilmacud Crokes manager Robbie Brennan delivered a realistic assessment post Sunday’s AIB Leinster SFC Final, saying simply that St. Columba’s Mullinalaghta were deserving winners.

Brennan had no qualms about a first ever Le inster Senior Football title heading to Longford, after a tough 60 minutes, which saw Mickey Graham’s charg-

es prevail by a couple of points at the full-time whiste.

“To be fair, I think Mullinalaghta probably deserved it,” Brennan said.

“We didn’t play well so I don’t think we can have too many complaints really after it.

“Fair play to them. It’s like we were forgotten about and we weren’t even here, and that’s just the nature of the beast when you get a big club up against a small club.

“Fair play to Mickey

- he’s done a great job with them. On they go to February and they will get a great crack off Crokes.”

Brennan says Crokes didn’t stick with their re g u l a r s t r a t e g y o f attacking football, and that this cost them dearly.

“I think that was probably the mistake - we started playing to hold onto it instead of doing what we’ve done all year which is go forward with the ball and attack, “For whatever rea-

son we reverted back to type, which we had been doing probably for the last three years, more of a defensive game, keep ball, go backwards with it.

“We reverted to that for some strange reason and it caught us out, yeah. We just played sloppily towards the end of the game.

“To be fair, I think Mullinalaghta deserved it.

“We didn’t play well so I don’t think we can have too many complaints really after it.”

Liam Flatman bursts forward from defence during Sunday’s AIB Leinster Senior Club Football Final in Tullamore Picture: Frances Mullin

38 DUBLIN GAZETTE  SOUTH 13 December 2018