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INSIDE: Fingal Enterprise Week gets set to kick off P4

Gaelic Games: Fingallians call on members for assistance Page 32

Sports Awards: June winners are announced inside Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES .............. 8 & 9 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS ................... 20 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

July 7, 2011

EXHIBITION: The story behind Dublin’s Martello Towers See Page 5

Metro North ‘needed to bring in jobs’ Q MIMI MURRAY

TRANSPORT Minister Leo Varadkar must ensure that Metro North is constructed in order to create sustainable employment in Dublin and to contribute much-needed funds to the Exchequer.

That’s according to Fine Gael Councillor Anne Devitt, who said the multimillion euro light rail system will generate 4,600 construction jobs, 2,000 add-on jobs and a

further 25,000 jobs in north Dublin when completed. The figures are based on research carried out by cross-party public representatives, community groups and businesses in north Dublin, said Devitt.

Devitt said that when you matched the figures with a “€2 billion foreign direct investment from the successful bidders”, it made “no sense to stop the construction of the Metro North at this stage”.

Full Story on Page 2

Shark tale: Local boy plays a Storm-er in name competition MARINE biologist Kealan Doyle was

thrilled with the new name, Storm, for a new baby banded cat shark which was suggested by seven-yearold Swords native, Sean Grehan who won the children’s competi-

tion in Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids hair salon recently to guess the birth date of the shark. Sean won not only his very own aquarium, but also the chance to name the shark.

Full Story on Page 3

2 SWORDS GAZETTE 7 July 2011

CENSUS: RESULTS

TRANSPORT Project could create up to 25,000 jobs

A large increase in the

Minister populace urged to ensure Metro is built

Q MIMI MURRAY news@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN Nor th has shown the largest population increase in the recent census results at 16.1%, with almost 115,000 now resident in the constituency, according to the latest figures.

Labour TD Brendan Ryan, said the results now need to lead to responsible planning.

“The preliminary results of the 2011 census have shown that the constituency of Dublin North, which covers the areas of Balbriggan, Donabate, Lusk, Rush, Skerries, Malahide and part of Swords, showed the largest population increase at 16.1% to just under 115,000 people.

This is an extraordinary increase in only five years” says Ryan “It is imperative the results of this census are used to inform responsible planning in north County Dublin over the coming years in order to avoid the mistakes made in the past.

“The previous census forewarned huge population surges in north County Dublin, yet the required planning needed to cope with such a surge remained wanting. Balbriggan is a perfect example of this neglect. The latest census has highlighted a 57.5% population increase since 2006 in the population of outer Balbriggan; the largest percentage and actual increase of any electoral division in the country.”

Q MIMI MURRAY news@gazettegroup.com

TRANSPORT Minister Leo Varadkar must ensure that Metro North is constructed in order to create sustainable employment in Dublin and to contribute much-needed funds to the Exchequer.

That’s according to Fine Gael Councillor Anne Devitt, who said the multimillion euro light rail system will generate 4,600 construction jobs, 2,000 add-on jobs and a further 25,000 jobs in north Dublin when completed.

The figures are based on research carried out by cross-party public representatives, community groups and businesses in north Dublin, said Cllr Devitt.

“Over the past few weeks I have researched the actual figures for building this light-rail service from Swords to Dublin’s city centre. I have also looked at the number of jobs Metro North will create, and the contribution these jobs will make to the Exchequer in terms of dole savings and tax contributions. When you match these with the €2 billion foreign direct investment from the successful bid-

ders, it makes no sense to stop the construction of the Metro North at this stage,” Cllr Devitt said.

She said that enabling works would create 600 jobs and dole savings would be €36 million; 4,000 construction jobs would save €260 million from the Exchequer over five years and 2,000 indirect jobs would save the taxpayer €140 million.

The estimated tax take from 4,600 jobs would be €300 million. The total contribution from Metro North would be €1,236 million.

According to the RPA, the construction of Metro North will cost between €3 billion and €3.5 billion. Of this €2 billion will be provided by private investment from the successful bidder, to construct and run the lightrail service under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) agreement.

The Irish Government will be required to provide a total of €700 million over a five-year period starting in 2012.

Cllr Devitt said that whilst appreciating that €700 million was a lot of money in the current economic climate, Minister Varadkar must under-

Metro North ‘will generate 25,000 jobs in north Dublin when completed’ says Fine Gael Councillor, Anne Devitt

stand that investing this in the project over a fiveyear term will generate over €100 million for the Exchequer.

This will come from the tax returns of those who are employed on the construction phase, the savings on dole payments, as well as those who will get jobs in the new companies expected to come to Dublin when the Metro North is up and running,” she said.

Six hundred jobs will be created to carry out the initial enabling work in advance of the construction phase.

A further indirect 300 jobs will also be created during this phase mainly in the construction, supply, accommodation and retail sectors.

Four thousand jobs will be created for the construction of Metro North, which will facilitate passengers at Dublin Airport, national hospitals and two universities.

Two thousand indirect jobs will also be created during the construction phase.

Between 25,000 and 37,000 jobs will then be created locally in the following decade, according

to the economic plan for Metro North.

Cllr Devitt said that decisions on all the business development plans and sustainability plans for Fingal County Council in recent times have been made against the background of Metro North providing greater access to the people of north Dublin.

“The council has commitments from industry to set up companies in the area once Metro North is completed.

Our plans for this local authority are based on this project being

completed. We cannot stop now. If a company announced 25,000 jobs for Ireland, every member of the Oireachtas would be at the event and queuing up to talk to the media. So we must support it,” she said.

Tony Lambert, Fingal Chamber of Commerce, says the Minister must realise that a commitment to Metro North is in keeping with his party’s commitment to a projobs Government, and an opportunity to attract €2 billion in foreign direct investment from the successful bidders.

7 July 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 3

EVENT Banded cat shark born in salon’s aquarium

DANGER: HOME OWNERS FACE MASSIVE BILLS

Demand for action over pyrite scourge Q MIMI MURRAY

swords@gazettegroup.com

Baby shark, Storm, left, incubated in an egg called the Mermaid’s Purse, above. Marine biologist Kealan Doyle, right, kept an eye on proceedings

Swords boy names newly born shark Q MICHAEL HANNAN

news@gazettegroup.com

A SHARK has been spotted in Malahide, but, don’t worry, this is a cute new baby banded cat shark born last week at the aquarium in Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids hair salon.

And the new arrival has been named Storm, thanks to seven-yearold Swords native, Sean Grehan, who guessed the birth date of the baby shark.

Aquarium In a children’s competition at the salon, Sean

predicted Saturday, June 25, for the new arrival, which weighed in at a quarter of a pound. It had been incubating for the past nine weeks in an egg called the Mermaid’s Purse in the aquarium.

The purse is an egg casing that surrounds the fertilised egg of some sharks. For his efforts, Sean won not only his very own aquarium but the chance to name the baby shark, which he called Storm.

Kealan Doyle, marine biologist from the Seahorse Aquarium in Ballymount, who brought the shark egg back to

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For his efforts, Sean won not only his very own aquarium, but the chance to name the baby shark, which he called Storm.

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Ireland from a conservation programme in Indonesia, said it was great name choice.

“I think Storm is a great name choice for the shark as it fits well with his dramatic, banded colours.

“We are all really excited about the birth of Storm and are looking forward to monitoring his progress over the

coming weeks. Eager shark lovers will be more than welcome to pop in over the coming weeks to take a look at Storm as he gets used to his new home.”

Doyle, aka the Seahorse Man, will continue to observe it as it gets used to its new surroundings. Unlike most baby sharks that are born as pups, the banded

cat shark is born from an egg and develops over a t wo - t o - t h r e e - m o n t h period. Storm’s progress from egg to hatched baby had been monitored by a live webcam on the website www.sharkeyscutsforkids.com.

John Fitzpatrick is the owner of Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids and, together with Doyle, had organised the installation of the shark egg in Sharkey’s aquarium. It was aimed to get kids excited about marine life and to remind them about the wealth of sea life on our shores, including some types of sharks.

UP to 20,000 home owners in Fingal have now been affected by a pyrite epidemic, Dublin north Fine Gael TD Alan Farrell has claimed.

Deputy Farrell, whose ow n home has been affected by the problem, said that an urgent change in building regulations was desperately needed to tackle the issue which is destroying newly built homes.

He has called on the Minister for Environment, Phil Hogan, to take swif t action to mitigate against the pyrite epidemic, which has caused significant damage to recently built houses, especially in Dublin North.

Impact

“As the owner of a house with pyritic backfill, I am acutely aware of the dramatic impact that this issue has on homeowners. I have been contacted by numerous home owners who are experiencing serious defects within their homes. Pyrite has already affected thousands of householders in north Leinster, and in my own constituency of Dublin North, and it is an issue that requires immediate action.

“Pyrite is a building material that has caused significant damage to

homes. It has been used in the construction of an estimated 20,000 houses in north Dublin, Meath and Kildare and has left home owners facing massive bills for problems such as cracked walls and floors.

Strengthen

“I am calling on Minister Hogan to act in a swift and decisive manner to strengthen the building regulations to prevent pyritic material being used in the construction of residential properties in the future.

“The previous Fianna Fail/Green Party Government refused to act on the pyrite issue since it was first identified as a problem in this country back in 2007.

“After four years of inaction, it is essential that we now dramatically strengthen the building regulations to prevent the problem occurring in newly constructed homes.

Only way

“This is the only way that we can be assured that future local residential properties can be free from pyrite and that future home purchasers can be protected as well.

“The strengthening of the building regulations is essential in order to prevent history repeating itself,” he said.

4 SWORDS GAZETTE 7 July 2011

COUNCIL

Extension made to hotel planning THE Hawthorn Hotel in Swords, has been granted an extension to its planning permission for alterations to the existing premises, which was originally granted by Fingal County Council.

Development The proposed development on the site on Main Street, Swords, includes demolition and alterations to an existing licensed premises, including extensions to the ground and first floor, to accommodate an extended lounge, new kitchen, hotel reception, storage, toilets and covered external terrace on the ground floor and an additional seven bedrooms on the first floor to a total of 17 bedrooms.

It includes alterations to the elevations and associated site works.

EVENT Fingal Enterprise Week gets set to kick off

€6,000 prize for businesses is up for grabs Q HIROMI MOONEY

news@gazettegroup.com

A DR AGON’S Denstyle competition is set to get the Fingal Enterprise Week underway this September.

Organised by Fingal County Enterprise Board, with suppor t from Fingal County Council and Bank of Ireland Business Banking, the competition will take place in the Europa Academy in Swords on Thursday, September 29.

The competition will be judged by Bobby Kerr from RTE’s Dragon’s Den’ series; Ben Dunne and 11890’s Nicola Byrne. Richard Curran, from the Sunday Busi-

ness Post, who hosts the television series, will act as master of ceremonies for the competition.

Four Fingal businesses will compete against each other to win a share of the €6,000 cash prize with mentoring support, and to represent Fingal at the National Enter prise Awards later this year.

For the first time, audience members will also have the chance to vote for the best business pitch in a special Audience Winner prize category.

The Fingal Enterprise Awards are expected to be one of the main highlights of the week.

T here will be many events running in vari-

Just Married?

ous locations throughout the county, including Swords, Malahide and Balbriggan.

The events will vary, but some will be free of charge.

CEO of Fingal County Enterprise Board, Oisin Geoghegan, says that Fingal Enterprise Week aims to inform, educate, encourage and inspire new start-ups and the existing small business community.

“Ever y year, thousands of new start-ups, sole traders and SMEs attend Fingal Enterprise Week events and, given the surge in interest around setting up a business, we’re expecting record numbers in September,” he said.

“The exciting schedule of events for September already includes social media seminars, a ‘pop-up bank’ exhibition, business networking events, mentoring clinics, finance workshops, networking sessions and specialist events for craft, food, export and tourism sectors.”

For more information visit www.fingalceb.ie.

Pictured at the announcement were Bill Cullen, Europa Academy and star of The Apprentice, 11890 founder Nicola Byrne, and Oisin Geoghegan, CEO, Fingal Enterprise Board and chief organiser of Fingal Enterprise Week

Legal challenge launched against planned Lidl store Send the Gazette your wedding snaps and we will celebrate your wedding with you by publishing them.* Email to news@gazettegroup.com *No guarantee that all pictures sent will be published. Please be aware if you send us your photos by post, we regret we are unable to return them. You must have permission from the copyright holder and guests pictured. The Gazette accepts no liability relating to pictures sent.

A LEGAL challenge has been launched against the planned Lidl store in Swords.

JC Savages Supermarket, along with a number of local residents, have launched a legal challenge to stop the store from being built just across from JC Savages.

An Bord Pleanala gave permission for Lidl to proceed in its development of the site of the Esso garage on the Rathbeale Road last April.

Papers were lodged in the High Court by Arthur Cox solicitors in May seeking a judicial review of the decision made by An Bord Pleanala (ABP), which gave the go-ahead to the popular discount

store.

It will come before the High Court again this Thursday.

In the appeal made to ABP, JC Savages said they would be “adversely affected” by the Lidl store.

When making its decision ABP said that the development would not affect retailers in the area or traffic. However, it did overturn the decision of its own inspector who recommended they refuse permission.

Meanwhile, the Dublin Airpor t Authority (DA A) , has sought planning permission for an increase in its on-site storage of potassium acetate, otherwise

known as de-icing fluid.

In the planning application lodged to Fingal County Council, the DAA are seeking permission to erect seven double-skinned tanks for the on-site storage of 315,000 litres of Potassium Acetate; the construction of a concrete bund to enclose the seven proposed tanks, as well as four existing tanks, and the erection of one lighting column.

This will bring the total amount of potassium acetate stores at the base on Collinstown Lane to 509,000 litres.

These works shall be implemented together with all associated site works.

7 July 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 5

EXHIBITION The story of Dublin’s Martello Towers

A history of some historic buildings Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

A JOINT Public Exhibition of Martello Towers Along Dublin’s Coastline will be held by Fingal and Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown County Councils and supported by the Heritage Council this summer.

The iconic buildings along the Dublin coast are familiar landmarks but the reality is that many people know very little about the pretty buildings dotted along the coastline.

Martello Towers of Dublin, documents the history of the Towers from their construction to the present day.

It tells the story of each of the 28 towers built from Balbriggan to Bray to defend the capital from French invasion in the early years of the 19th century.

It looks at why they were built, where the idea for the towers came from, their military role, how they are being used today, and where similar towers are found across the globe.

Terry Prone and Tom Savage, who own the Tower in Portrane, and other owners, tell their stories and give an insight into what it’s like to live in a tower in the 21st century.

In July 2009, Fingal’s Arts Office presented Tattered Outlaws of History, a 12-screen visual presentation of Fingal’s Martello Towers, designed by visual artist Dan Dubowitz and choreographer Fearghus O Conchuir.

T his well-received exhibition was on display at Skerries Red Island Martello Tower, with the assistance of local volunteers during

Level of interest in having an allotment is sought FINGAL County Council is to host an inform a t i o n e ve n i n g o n Wednesday, July 20, at 7.30pm in Balbriggan Town Hall to determine the level of interest for the development of an Allotment Scheme for Balbriggan.

Anyone interested in, or curious about, having an allotment is welcome to attend.

People can register their interest on the night.

summer 2009 and is currently on display at Jaywick Martello Tower in Essex, Britain, receiving excellent reviews.

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‘We hope that this new exhibition will stimulate further interest and research into this fascinating group of buildings’ --------------------------

Fingal Archives has also recently been presented with the original deed of conveyance for the site of Balbriggan Martello Tower by Hugh Cumisky, is the grandson of William J Cumisky.

This deed, or Indenture, is one of only two surviving deeds for any of the 28 Dublin Martello Towers, and the original will be on display as part of the exhibition.

“We hope that this new exhibition will stimulate further interest and research into this fascinating group of buildings.

“Perhaps you have an

COUNCIL: INFORMATION EVENING

The Martello Tower at Robswall, Malahide Coast Road, north of Portmarnock

old photograph or documents relating to the towers – if so we’d like to hear from you.

“As our knowledge and understanding grows we hope that the value of the Martello Towers as a unique part of Dublin’s heritage will be more fully recognised,” a spokesperson for FCC said.

Dates for the exhibition are from June 30 to July 8 in Rush Library, July 8 to August 22 in Fingal County Hall and August 22 to September 2 in Rush Library.

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240 The Martello Tower at Drumanagh, Rush

Discussion It is planned to have a discussion on what people consider the allotment design should include /not include, what sizes of allotments should be provided and a list of people interested in forming an allotment club will be compiled.

6 SWORDS GAZETTE 7 July 2011

DUBLIN Capital one of three cities set for honour

Fingal set for design judges’ visit this July

Timepiece: See famous snapper’s new Swatch designs

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Q MIMI MURRAY

BEAUTY PAGE 14

swords@gazettegroup.com John Tierney, Dublin City Manager, David O’Connor, Fingal County Manager, Ali Grehan, Dublin City Architect and Richard Bruton, T.D., Minister for Enterprise, Innovation and Jobs

JUDGES from the International Council of Societies of Industrial Design (ICSID) will travel to Fingal this month to judge if Dublin is to become World Design Capital 2014.

Dublin is one of three cities worldwide to be shortlisted for the prestigious designation, awarded biannually to cities that use design to benefit people socially, culturally and economically. World Design Capital 2014 will be awarded to either Dublin, Bilbao in Spain or Cape Town in South Africa. The winning city will be announced this autumn.

Speaking to the Gazette, Fingal Count y M a n a g e r, D av i d O’Connor, said that to have been shortlisted for World Design Capital 2014 was an “incredible achievement in its own right, and the opportunity for Dublin to hopefully win this nomination and go on to showcase the best of Dublin on an international stage is a fitting tribute to every organisation, business

and individual in the city who contributed to the varied, and at times, extraordinary design, which makes Dublin the unique city region that it is”.

“Fingal are proud of the role we play in the city region, we are the county of growth, of leisure, of living and for the future,” he said.

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‘The Pivot Dublin, Turn Design Inside Out bid showcases Irish designers at home and abroad.’

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“The Pivot Dublin, Turn Design Inside Out bid showcases Irish designers at home and abroad; working across established design disciplines such as product, fashion, architecture and graphic design to animation, film, gaming and interaction design,” said Ali Grehan, Dublin City Architect. “It is a strong

and diverse bid that tells a compelling story about our design capacity as a city and country. It also identifies an opportunity where Dublin can be a test bed for new ideas which address local need, yet have global relevance.

These are difficult times and our bid challenges us to adapt, recover and grow; showing how design can make a difference in Dublin and Ireland,” she said.

“Successful World Design Capital designation for Dublin could provide a legacy of significant job opportunities for the city and for Ireland, as the design sector is growing rapidly,” says John Tierney, Dublin City Manager.

“The World Design Capital designation is prestigious and brings economic and reputational benefits to the winning city. Cities that value and apply design in the way they think, plan and act are more humane, attractive and competitive cities, and that is how we want to position Dublin,” he said.

Details of the Dublin bid can be seen on www. pivotdublin.com.

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS

CALL 60 10 240

7 July 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 7

PROJECT Swords’ scheme ‘actively pursued’

Welfare office ‘remains top priority’ A COMPREHENSIVE social welfare office for Swords is top of the Department of Social Protection’s priority list.

That’s according to Labour TD, Brendan Ryan, who said this week that the Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton had confirmed to him that the project remains a top priority.

“It has been over two

years since planning permission was granted for a comprehensive social welfare office to be constructed at Forster Way in Swords town centre. However, the office seems no closer to being built than it did in 2009. Whilst new claims and enquiries are operated from social welfare offices in North St in Swords, signing on and claim maintenance are

operated from premises in North Cumberland St in Dublin city centre.

This is simply not good enough for the people of Swords,” said Deputy Ryan.

“I wrote to Minister Burton of the Department of Social Protection to seek clarification on when works on the proposed office in Forster Way would be completed. I was informed

that the project is currently with the Office of Public Works and is being actively pursued.

I was also assured that the project is at the top of the Department’s priority list. I will be writing to the Minister with responsibility for the OPW, Brian Hayes, and requesting a definite timeline for when works at Forster Way will begin and be completed,” he said.

Candidates were conscious to keep their constituency clean and made sure that all the posters were removed before the deadline

GENERAL ELECTION: EVERYONE COMPLIANT WITH RULES

No littering fines for political parties Q LAURA WEBB swords@gazettegroup.com

POLITICAL party representatives and independent candidates running during the General Election were compliant with the rule that all election posters should be taken down a week after polling day.

That’s according to Fingal County Council, which said this week that they did not issue any “litter fines to members of political parties, and non-political parties in respect of non-removal of election posters after the deadline date”.

In the run-up to the election on February 25, hundreds of election posters from local candidates looking to gain a seat in the Dail flooded constituencies throughout Fingal.

Posters were seen on lamp-posts, bridges, and railings across Dublin West and Dublin North, while some were also seen littering the roads of Fingal during the high-wind weather.

But it seems candidates were conscious to keep their constituency clean and made sure that all the posters distributed throughout the

county were removed before the deadline, seven days after polling day on February 25.

If candidates are found to have posters on display after the deadline date, they were liable to a litter fine by Fingal. “ We a r e s a t i s f i e d that posters in Fingal’s administrative area were removed in accordance with the legislation, and our proactive approach to communications with the relevant candidates in this regard ensured a timely and satisfactory removal of posters,” a council spokeswoman said.

Before the announcement of this year’s election, candidates were also warned that they could face litter fines if they were found to put up posters before the election was called.

In 2009, a provision was enacted forbidding candidates to erect election posters before an election is called, or 30 days before polling day, whichever is sooner. If candidates were found to be in breach of the regulation, local authorities had the power to issue on-thespot fines of €150 for each breach.

8 SWORDS GAZETTE 7 July 2011

PICTURES Gazettephotos.com is packed full of local pictures;

HOWDY, MISTER ROMAN Byrne was having a rootin’ tootin’ shootin’ good time when The Gazette met him, and many other children, at the opening of a new toy store, Imaginarium, at the Swords Pavilions, Stylish local ladies, Alex Calin and Anna Kerslake

where the local youngster was happy to try out a modern version of a trusty steed to mosey around the colourful new store.

Picture: Peter Doyle

A smart style from one of the catwalk models

Alicia Garcia

Sonya Lennon and Brendan Courtney

Steven Pierce, Maria Aprile and Katie Harrington. Pictures: Peter Doyle

Going Off The Rails HERE was a stylish audience waiting patiently at The Pavilions when the popular RTE fashion show, Off The Rails, was being filmed at the centre, with a catwalk fashion show proving a real hit with everyone.

Sonya Lennon and Brendan

T

Courtney brought many elements of the long-running programme to the north Dublin centre, which was one stop on the show’s nationwide tour.

The show featured a host of attractions, including the announcement of winners in Dublin’s Most Stylish ... categories, with

Sonya and Brendan going headto-head in a competitive fashion face-off, while the catwalk shows, makeovers and fashion, beauty and style tips from a number of Off The Rails experts showed that they were very much on track to provide top advice to fashion fans.

We are adding more and more pictures to our site,

www.gazette

7 July 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 9

can you spot anyone you know here? Log on to see even more!

1 HEN Fingallians’ GAA Club held their annual awards night at the clubhouse, The Gazette was happy to help celebrate some of the many successes achieved by the club, and by individual players, throughout the 2010 season.

The awards saw Derry Murphy inducted

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into the club’s Hall of Fame, while Mick Kennedy, John Matthew Sheridan, Dan Davern, David Killeen, Aoife O’Reilly, Conor Corrigan, Niall Fagan, Joe McGlynn, Suzie Manton and Eoin Collins were amongst those honoured on the night for all of their their sterling efforts.

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PLAYERS CELEBRATE 1. Kerrie Daly, Emma Farrell and Michelle Ennis

2. Yvonne Hughes and Sandra

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O’Brien

3. Catherine Logan and Barry Mullane

4. Jonathan Reddington and Jenna Fennell

5. Gavin Downey, Emma Conway, Barry Agar and Kathleen Begg

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log on to have yours delivered direct to your door

photos.com

10 SWORDS GAZETTE 7 July 2011

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MAGNIFICENT MADEIRA!

Visually stunning, warm and welcoming, Madeira is a real treat for someone looking for good weather, and seeking to avoid neon lights and flying patio furniture

TRAVEL, PAGE 22-23

NULTY: I WILL BE A VOICE FOR COMMUNITIES ACROSS FINGAL

Deputy Mayor sets out his plan Q LAURA WEBB AND MIMI MURRAY news@gazettegroup.com

FINGAL’S new Deputy Mayor, Labour Councillor Patrick Nulty, has vowed to be a voice for the communities across Fingal and argue for the protection and delivery of vital services needed by them.

The newly elected deputy mayor said he was delighted to be nominated and elected by his council colleagues as the Deputy Mayor of Fingal County Council.

The local councillor was elected at the annual meeting held on Friday, June 24. Here, his fellow Labour Party councillor, serving the Swords/ Balbriggan area, Gerry McGuire, took up the chain of office as Mayor of Fingal.

Speaking to the Gazette following his new appointment, Cllr Nulty spoke of his objectives in his new role.

“My objective is, first and foremost, to be a voice for communities across Fingal and to make sure of that in whatever way I can within in the role. I want to ensure that different groups working hard in local communities, tackling the many serious problems that local areas are facing, will have someone who will speak for them and represent

them.

“That is what I want to use the role as Deputy Mayor for – I want to be a voice for the citizens. I will argue for the protection of vital local services and for delivery of projects in communities, and, if I can do that over the next year, I will be happy,” Cllr Nulty said.

He went on to say he will be “working closely” with the new mayor and, in practical terms, if the mayor is unavailable to chair meetings or attend public meetings, he will be stepping in.

Newly elected Mayor, Labour politician Gerry McGuire said: “Over the coming year, Fingal County Council will be focusing our efforts to make ourselves the focus of Ireland’s recovery, and we will work hard to make sure that Fingal continues to be open for business.

“As Mayor of Ireland’s youngest and most business friendly county, I will be sending out a clear message that Fingal is pro-business and projobs,” he said.

Handing over the mayoral chains, outgoing Mayor, Cllr Ken Farrell, congratulated Cllr McGuire on his election and thanked his party colleagues, his family and friends and also paid tribute to County Manager, David O’Connor, and his staff.

Preliminary figures from the CSO indicate a 13% increase in the county’s population

DONNELLY: CALL FOR A HALT TO CUTS FOLLOWING CENSUS FIGURES

More resources call as population grows Q LAURA WEBB

A CALL has been made for increased resources for statutory and community services in Fingal, following a 13% increase in the county’s population over the last five years, according to preliminary figures from Census 2011.

Figures show that Fingal has seen an increase of 33,059 since the previous census five years ago, with the overall population reaching 273,051.

The overall population of Ireland has increased to over 4.5 million - an increase of more than 341,000 people since the

previous census in 2006.

Dublin West now has a population of 117,126, a 10.8% rise since 2006 when the population was 105,668 on census day.

O f t h e 10 m o s t increased populated areas in the county, Blakestown in Blanchardstown is ranked fourth, with 35,970 in the area on April 10 – census day 2011, compared to 32,288 in the 2006 census.

Meanwhile, Balbriggan comes in first with 15,146 in 2011, an increase of 5,531 since 2006. The constituency of Dublin North, which covers the areas of Balbriggan, Donabate, Lusk, Rush,

Skerries, Malahide and part of Swords, showed the largest population increase at 16.1%, from 98,340 recorded in 2006 to 114,143 in 2011.

Following the release of the preliminary findings, Sinn Fein activist Paul Donnelly has called for increased resources for the statutory and community services in Fingal.

Population Donnelly said the increases in population will also be in certain areas such as Tyrrelstown and Ongar, but all areas have recorded increases.

“I am calling on the Government parties,

Labour and Fine Gael, to direct increased funding to areas like Dublin West and Balbriggan that recorded the biggest population increase at 57%.

“Dublin Bus, the Gardai, the HSE, Fingal County Council and the Department of Education must review the service they provide in order to meet the needs of the increased population levels in theses areas.

Any previously planned cuts must be scrapped immediately in light of the new figures from the census.

“In particular, I think the Government must reconsider the proposed

State-wide cuts in the Garda numbers of over 2,500. Dublin West now has a population of over 117,000 with one Garda station, yet other counties with similar populations have multiple stations and vastly more Garda resources.

“The planning process for this population increase must start now so that we aren’t playing catch-up in the coming years. The IMF/ECB doesn’t reside here in Dublin West and won’t have to deal with the social consequences of an increased population with decreasing support services,” he said.

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

THE ARTS: STORY OF COPPELIA

EVENT A cool week of music and festival-going

Classic ballet comes to Dublin LAURA WEBB

ONE of the world’s leading classic ballet companies will pirouette its way to the Grand Canal Theatre in Dublin when it performs its enchanting production, Coppelia.

This will be the first time Birmingham Royal Ballet has performed in Dublin. The company is set to electrify its audience with the amazing talents by their ballet dancers.

Artistic director, David Kingley, of the Birmingham Royal Ballet has been with the company since leaving the Royal College of Ballet in the 70s and has been artistic director for 16 years.

Excited about coming to Dublin for the first time, David is confident that everyone, young and old, will enjoy the story of toymaker Dr Coppelius, who wants nothing more than for his life-like doll to come to life.

“It is one of our most popular full-length ballets, it is a particular favourite of the audience because it has wonderful music, it has a really good story and it is a comedy as well, audiences like it because of that. It is very much for the younger generation, too. I hesitate to use the term, but it is a family ballet, it appeals to everybody from young children to senior citizens.

“There is a feisty village girl, for one reason and another, ends up impersonating the doll and so the doctor Coppelius believes that he has brought this doll to life, but, in fact, it is this cheeky girl that is playing a trick on him. This particular production is Sir Peter Wrights,” David told the Gazette Coppelia comes to the Grand Canal Theatre from July 7 until July 9.

Check out www.grandcanaltheatre.ie for further information or book tickets through Ticketmaster on 0818 719 377.

Heineken unveils its grandest plans yet for Europe’s biggest rock and roll weekend, with ice cold drinks, surprise DJ sets and some of the biggest names in music

Heineken’s ultimate Oxegen experience is set to rock THIS year sees title sponsor, Heineken, unveil its grandest plans yet for Europe’s biggest rock and roll weekend.

Ice cold drinks, surprise DJ sets, the Heineken Cold Rooms and, of course, some of the biggest names in music under the Heineken Green Spheres’ canopy,are some of the treats in store for this year’s Oxegen-goers.

Heineken Greenspace

Heineken’s Greenspace returns to the festival once more, prom-

ising eclectic, surprise DJ sets and audio visual performances from some of Oxegen ‘11’s biggest international names.

As surprise guests are expected to drop in throughout the weekend, updates are available by free texting ‘GREENS PA C E ’ t o 5 0 01 5 t h r o u g h o u t O xe g e n weekend.

Greenspace also offers panoramic views of the festival on the open air terrace, as well as Oxegen’s coldest pint with Heineken Extra Cold served on tap.

The Heineken Cold Rooms return to Oxegen after a phenomenal ice-cold can experience at the festival last year.

They will be located at the entrance to each of the three campsites at Oxegen, and free to use for all who arrive with cans of Heineken during the festival weekend.

Ninety minutes is all that is needed to chill cans to optimum temperature and cans can be collected any time between 12pm and 2am during the festival, ensuring cold cans for the

duration of the fun-filled weekend.

To avoid the hassle of losing tokens, biometric fingerprint scans are used by festival goers to claim their chilled cans of Heineken.

Heineken Green Spheres stage

Renowned for providing multi-sensory music experiences, the Heineken Green Spheres stage continues to raise music fans to paranormal musical levels with its stellar line up.

This year, Heineken

unveils headliners Leftfield, Brandon Flowers and Primal Scream as part of the line up of the Heineken Green Spheres stage. Also on the line-up are The Vaccines, Chase & Status, Crystal Castles, Odd Future, Example and Calvin Harris.

The line-up

• Friday, July 8: Leftfield, Calvin Harris, Example, Whipping Boy, Bressie, Her Majesty & The Wolves, The Riptide Movement, Gypsies On The Autobahn and more to be announced.

www.gazette group.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

• Saturday, July 9: Brandon Flowers, The Vaccines, Professor Green, The Pretty Reckless, Cashier No.9, Fox Avenue, Propaganda DJs. • Sunday, July 10: Primal Scream, Chase & Status, Crystal Castles, Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All, Ocean Colour Scene, The Saturdays, GROUPLOVE and more to be announced.

For full details of cold room locations and all the latest information on Oxegen visit www. heinekenmusic.ie.

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 13

A few simple steps toward tackling the effects of debt THE Phoenix Process is a group of individuals who came together with a vision of National Recovery. The Phoenix Process articles focus on different issues, the intention behind all of which will be to encourage, inspire, motivate and to bring much-needed hope.

Each writer is a professional, who has been affected by the economic crisis in different ways. One of the most important aspects of dealing with any crisis is positive and proactive support systems.

This column will be printed weekly, and, if you feel you would like to join in this process, please contact www.phoenixprocess.ie This week, we present the second piece from Tara O’Grady. Tara was a restaurateur who lost everything financially in recent times, following the closure of her business.

She has actively been seeking debt law reform to protect people’s homes, minds and lives for some time now. Having suffered from a stress-related disorder due to the pressures that were put upon her, she decided to put Tara O’Grady together a survival package for those suffering from debt despair. She is positive and proactive about dealing with the ramifications of debt, both on an individual and national level.

A friend in need?

WE must support each other... It can be completely overwhelming to face the paperwork end of things when it comes to debt, especially when massive personal losses have occurred. This is the time to reach out your hand to help your friend or family member.

We are in a temporary crisis situation; If you are not in difficulty, you can be sure someone you care for is. (Whether or not they are telling you about it, is another matter).

If you are concerned that someone close to you may be suffering from severe debt-related stress, please look for the signs - some examples include the following: 1. Isolation from social activity 2. Sleepless nights and or difficulty in sleeping with worry 3. Increased tension and or arguing over money issues 4. Fears about losing income and how to pay bills 5. Solicitors and debt collection letters arriving, phone calls or

OPINION Most cases happen in family home

Elder abuse where to turn FLORENCE HORSMAN–HOGAN Gazette columnist

I KNOW as a writer for various media outlets that many people expect me to be self-dramatising in any area I want to highlight. For me – the area of elder abuse has always been front and foremost of my work. While I’m an opinion writer – I’m also a nurse – and have actually sought training from the HSE in this field. In my field as a response to abuse trainer – abuses have been uncoverered.

In the homes of the HSE staff.

Various governmentts and State bodies have ignored this for so long – I wanted to become expert before I sought to comment. Now that I'm a specially trained trainer for the HSE on how to show our workers how to recognise and respond to elder abuse – there are

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

doorstep visits – concern about opening the mail or answering the telephone 6. Increased irritability and feelings of lack of self-worth 7. Increased drinking or smoking as a stress reliever 8. Asking family and friends for loans to help out 9. Cheques and bank payments being returned regularly 10. Surviving on an overdraft facility Severe stress from debt-related pressure is an extremely serious mental health issue. In recent times, Mental Health & Suicide Awareness organisations have been acknowledging just how serious this issue is becoming. Just as a limb can break, so can the mind if put under enough pressure. Once the signs have been noticed action can be taken, a management programme put in place and a recovery process begin.

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even more worrying and horrific facts that have come to my attention.

No matter how badly nursing homes and care facilities have been exposed/portrayed in the media – it's far worse in their own homes. It's conservativly estimated that 70% of abuse happens in the parent/significant other’s own home.

And here’s the crunch – even though social workers, public health workers and other family members might try to help them – if they don't want help – the abuse will continue – and there’s nothing anyone can do about it.

But the other thing is actually recognising the abuse. Granny/dad/sister no longer appears to have any money to go out. No money for make-up, cigs, new clothes. Excuses made for bruises, burns, scars.

If you were a 70–year–

old mother with a farm and one son, two daughters. The son manages the farm the daughters visit. Who are you going to pick if he’s hitting you or taking your pension?

You only have one son – don’t you?

If you’re a father with only one daughter – she says she's got finiancial problems – but you've given her all of your pension and now can’t afford new clothes – what are you going to pick?

What about if your husband has died and you’re a farmer’s wife? You have two or three daughters and a son or two. But you're nervous because they all fight. You turn to a favoured neighbour.

Your best friend. The solicitor comes in, you're confused as to what you should do, you've no one to talk to.

What do you do?.

First of all – do nothing.

Say something.

I’ve been there as a child, I know the importance of secrecy and shielding.

But finding someone you can trust is an oxymoron in Irish society – trust a social worker – hell yeah!

Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) is investigating the 1,760 cases of elder abuse, with 477 of these reported in 2011. As there is no dedicated elder abuse officer in the southern region of Ireland the authority believe this figure is likely to be higher.

In the Executive’s annual elder abuse report, to be published next week, they will reveal that there were 2,046 referrals in 2010, which was up from 1,870 in 2009. It will show that neglect and financial abuse claims have risen by 14 percent and nine percent, respectively.

14 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY A milestone for Ceramide Gold Edited by Dawn Love

Artful Swatch: Rankin creates eight watches

THE never-ending love story between Swatch and art continues to delight followers of the popular Swiss brand with new creations from leading international artists. Famed British fashion photographer, Rankin, has created eight new watches in the classic Gent Original format to enrich the Swatch & Art Collection.

Launched at Carton House recently, five of the watches are presented in the form of a set in their own special packaging, available in a limited and numbered edition of 777 pieces. Three additional Gents, designed by the British photographer, are sold separately in unlimited editions and cost €45 each.

Talking about the range, Rankin said: “When Swatch approached me to design a range of watches, I was immensely flattered. Like so many people, my first watch was

T’S a cult classic, loved by a host of celebrities and, this August, Elizabeth Arden’s Ceramide Gold Ultra Restorative Capsules will celebrate its 21st anniversary.

To celebrate reaching this milestone, Elizabeth Arden are offering customers at every counter nationwide a complimentary skincare consultation and a sevenday trial of the capsules, with a discount voucher for the full-size product throughout August and September.

When Elizabeth Arden discovered the revolutionary Ceramides in August 1990, they created the first single-dose skincare capsules. Since then, Ceramide Gold Ultra Restorative Capsules have been delivering bio-engineered, skinidentical ceramides to the skin to leave a silky, smooth and glowing complexion, and work to restore the skin’s moisture barrier.

These capsules contain Borage Seed Extract to soothe and calm sensitive skin, and the antioxidant Vitamin E, which conditions the skin and protects it from environmental stress. They also contain retinyls,

I a Swatch – it’s an iconic brand that holds such a special place in people’s hearts. So it was an exciting challenge to be given the opportunity to design a Swatch watch myself.”

Swatch have recently begun a partnership with Tower Jewellers in Blanchardstown, where a wide range of their pieces are now available.

Elizabeth Arden’s Ceramide Gold Ultra Restorative Capsules will celebrate its 21st anniversary

which are proven to be anti-aging by smoothing out lines and wrinkles, give an even-toned look

and help enhance natural collagen for a firmer look.

Ceramide Gold Ultra

Restorative Capsules are available at Boots and Elizabeth Arden counters nationwide.

Get radiant, kissable lips for summer THIS summer, radiant, kissable lips are a must-have. Pink is the new red this season and gorgeous, bright lips makes you stand out from the crowd. So, why not try a Rouge D’Armani Hot Summer 2011 Limited Edition lipstick?

These vibrant lipsticks’ patented Color-FilTM technology gives each shade 360 degrees of lasting radiance. The secret lies in the Color bond polymer, which traps refined pigments and intensifies and retains the colour’s radiance for over six

hours. With six bright shades of pink to choose from, there is one to suit every look.

Rouge d’Armani Hot lipsticks have innovative, new-generation pearlescent fine particles called Light Reflecting Tints. These particles can be incorporated into lipstick at a higher concentration than standard pearlescent particles, and give off a greater reflective sheen.

So, as you step out into the sun, you can flaunt your brighter, vibrant pink lips.

Rouge D’Armani Hot Summer 2011 Limited Edition lipstick

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 15

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day

B&Q’s fundraiser for Youth Work Ireland Home store giants B&Q teamed up with its official charity partner, Youth Work Ireland, recently and arranged a cycling fundraising event in stores, appropriately called B&Q Bike It! B&Q Swords accepted the challenge and took part in a sponsored cycle for Youth Work Ireland on Saturday, June 18 last at Airside Retail Park in Swords.

Children from the Swords Youth Service participated in the cycle and also collected donations on behalf of Youth Work Ireland.

Staff members in B&Q Swords would like to say a big thank you to everyone who participated and helped raise a fantastic €608.42 for Youth Work Ireland.

Noeleen O’Gorman, from B&Q Swords, said: “We loved every minute of our B&Q Bike

DIARY It! event. It is great that such a fun event like a bike ride has helped raise lots of money for such an important cause.”

Patrick Burke, CEO of Youth Work Ireland said: “We are delighted that B&Q is supporting Youth Work Ireland by organising its own Bike It! events. Each euro raised helps us work with more young people to build better, brighter futures.”

Film Fatale THE Sugar Club will be transformed into a 1950’s Little Italy for a screening of the perfect classic summer film, Roman Holiday, on Saturday, August 6.

Join the young and radiant Audrey Hepburn as princess Ann who breaks free from her regal duties to spend the day frolicking in Rome with handsome reporter Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck). Eat gelato on the Spanish Steps; place your hand in the mouth of truth, hop on a Vespa and ride around this vibrant city.

All from the comfort of your seat as you enjoy pizza, wine and other Italian delights.

The screening will be followed by a Italian-themed after-party with live performances and Film Fatale’s resident DJs, The Andrews Sisters’ Brothers, who will play music from the era.

The audience is invited to set the scene by dressing up in their vintage finest, paying homage to 1950’s Italian style or mirroring the characters.

Tickets are €15 and are available at www.tickets.ie. Doors open at 8pm. After-party from 11pm with tickets at the door (€5).

Wing it to Bray TENS of thousands of spectators are expected to gather along Ireland’s east coast on Sunday, July 24, for the country’s largest free air show – the Air Spectacular as part of Bray Summerfest.

During the 140-minute aerial show, spectators will be treated to close formation aerobatics, beach parachuting, search and rescue demonstrations at sea, pirouette spins, knife edge rolls and nose-down spiral descents.

More information around the Air Spectacular is available from www.airspectacular.com or www.braysummerfest.com

Gazette Contacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251

Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com

Gazette Group 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, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

16 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC A new power soul revelation from Janelle Q ROB HEIGH

LAST week, before Glastonbury drew everyone’s attention to the fields of Worthy Farm, the Guardian published a rare and surprisingly revealing interview with my personal musical hero, Prince.

The normally reclusive and press-averse megastar spoke, albeit briefly, about his favourite current artists. He called out two by name.

One was Adele. The other was Janelle Monae.

When the Minneapolis maestro speaks, you know it’s time to listen up.

Her show at Tripod last week was a perfect illustration of a brave new artist on the brink of much wider success, with her roots and influences squarely apparent and fully on show wonderful covers of Prince, Stevie Wonder, the Jackson 5 and Sly and the Family Stone in the mix with her own already impressive material and a live band so well-drilled and on the mark that they were a huge part of the show, as much as Janelle herself.

So much so that the theatrical aspects of this “emotion picture”, on top of some of the best future funk/soul you are likely to hear, made for one of the most mesmerising shows to hit Dublin for a long time, and probably for a long time to come.

After the bandleader had us call Janelle to the stage, the infectious energy and apparent joy of playing instantly transferred to the crowd as soon as the band broke in to Dance Or Die - an appropriate opener, because if you didn’t dance during the show, you probably were dead. That buzz did not flag until even after the main show, when the assembled ArchOrchestra returned to the stage for a hugely-deserved curtain call.

In between, Janelle’s vibrant and powerful soul voice weaved it’s way around Tripod, capturing all in its wake, as the band - made up of a string quartet, brass section, guitar, bass, keys, backing singers, dancers, MC, and drummer - put on a polished, soul revue-style performance that was utterly entrancing.

HerArchAndroid was one of the best records of last year, and this live show will go down as one of the best of 2011.

Janelle promised at the end that they would be back - when she does return, don’t miss it.

Janelle Monae: The live show of the year

Get festival ready: Comfort and style at Tesco THE sun is set to be out at Oxegen next week and Tesco have a wide range of essentials for festival-goers, from special offers on air-beds and sleeping bags, tents from only €28, and other camping essentials such as a LED head-torch for €7.75. As well as these, there is an array of health and beauty basics, such as baby wipes, Tresemme’s waterless foam shampoo for €4, and a range of festival chic clothing with everything from sunglasses, hats and wellies to floral maxi dresses from €23.

REVIEW: NEW RELEASES FROM TWO HEROES OF AMERICAN MUSIC

Nicks and Simon show time’s right for renewal Q ROB HEIGH

FOR as long as I can remember, there has been an album by Simon and Garfunkel or Fleetwood Mac around somewhere.

My parents loved both, and I remember well the sounds of voices in harmony coming from the record player as they played Rumours and Bookends.

Of course, the approaches of the two acts could not have been any more different: Fleetwood Mac’s driving American rock, propelled by Mick Fleetwood’s hard-hitting drum sound and John McVie’s rolling bass; compared to the whispered incantations of Paul and Art, underpinned with their deep love of the folk tradition, as well as the rock’n’roll roots that bore their partnership.

While Stevie Nicks, the epic and distinct voice of Fleetwood Mac for most of the Seventies, took on solo duties away from Mac when she realised there were avenues she couldn’t pursue within the confines and conflicting demands of

Two different results from two new releases from Stevie Nicks and Paul Simon

the band, Paul Simon was a solo act for the majority of that decade, and the decades since.

Both released what were classic albums in the Eighties, with Bella Donna and Graceland still up there with some of the most memorable and iconic music of that decade.

Now, more than 20 years on, both Nicks and Simon have released new records this month, and it’s interesting to compare progressions and passage into new stages of their respective careers.

Nicks has brought on board uber-producer and former Eurythmic, Dave Stewart, to helm her latest release, In Your Dreams.

His hand at the tiller has given Nicks another wall-of-sound production that fits with her unique, and sometimes achingly beautiful, voice.

Having both Mick Fleetwood and Lyndsey Buckingham on board for two of the tracks adds a certain frisson to proceedings, given Nicks’ sometimes tumultous relationship with her former Mac mates.

But, in the end, the record is simply a Stevie Nicks’ record. There are no huge leaps of faith, no career redefining changes of direction. It is just what it is, and that’s a shame, as this was surely an opportunity to do something a little more left-field and appeal to a whole new generation.

Paul Simon’s So Beautiful Or So What, equally, is no huge leap forward.

What it is, however, is a grand statement of an artist doing what he does best — lyrics that demand a second listen, and reference to the liner notes

because they are simply so good that they work as poetry, and music that wraps you up in bouncing guitar figures and African rythyms that propel you back to highpoints of Simon’s solo career, while moving forward with reflection and sensitivity.

Tracks like The Afterlife and Love and Hard Times are immersive and great fun, grooves and words and melodies weaving into your consciousness and leaving enough hooks to make you listen again, and again.

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

DEALING WITH BAD NEWS: ADVICE TO HELP PREPARE FOR THE DEATH OF YOUR FAMILY PET

Coping with the death of your pet EATH is one of the most difficult things you will ever explain to a child.

So, when confronted by the owners of a deceased cat who asked: “How will we explain the cat’s death to our daughter?”

The following was my advice.

When a pet dies, it may be the first experience a child has when it comes to coping with death.

As their parent, you will be the best judge as to how much information your child can handle and I would advise you to keep in mind, at this stage, that the child may also worr y that other beloved members of their family will also die.

However, trying to protect them by saying the pet ran away may cause them to expect the animal to return.

Expressing your own grief and encouraging your child to express theirs will help them understand it’s ok to be sad.

This will enable them work through their feelings.

As a mom, I believe a child’s ability to understand what death is all about depends on his/ her cognitive development and emotional environment; not to mention the way you explain situations.

Remember, the older the child the more he/ she understands.

D

For example: Under 5: The child will certainly miss the pet but only as a playmate – recently my grand-daughter’s goldfish, Nemo, died and although she missed feeding him and helping her mom change his water, she didn’t actually miss him because she loved him. She missed the routine of caring for him.

Up to 10: Explain to your child exactly what “death” means. Tell them gently and honestly that their pet’s body has stopped working and will not work anymore and that the pet had to be helped to die peacefully and without any pain or suffering.

Don’t use the term “put to sleep”, as children may confuse death with sleeping and this may trigger sleeping problems for your child.

Over 10/Teens: The child now realises people and pets die and will go through the normal stages of grieving.

However, sometimes this loss can trigger other problems such as poor concentration at school, anxiety, insecurity or certain juvenile behaviours, so it’s important to engage in open and honest conversation with your child regarding his/her pet’s death.

Never blame the vet.

Your child may grow up to resent the good work veterinarians and other animal and human care

givers provide.

Now we’ve got your kids sorted, what about you? How does mom cope?

When a pet dies, people may consider offering support as being inappropriate because they view the loss as “just a pet.”

Here at the Dublin SPCA we believe nothing could be further from the truth.

We love our pets and consider them as family.

Lots of people celebrate their pets’ birthdays, buy them presents and carry their pictures in wallets, purses, on mobile ‘phones, even posting them on social sites like Facebook.

Therefore, when a pet dies, we understand it’s normal to feel over whelmed by the intensity of your sorrow; after all, haven’t they provided you with emotional support and unconditional love?

The grieving process is as individual as the person. Sometimes it begins with denial, sometimes anger; often guilt - What did I do?

Should I have done more? Is it inappropriate to feel so upset?

When these feelings subside, true sadness may set in.

Acceptance will only occur when you begin to remember the animal with decreasing sadness.

Here are a few tips to help you cope.

Acknowledge your grief and give yourself permission to grieve.

When a pet dies, it may be the first experience a child has when it comes to coping with death

Reach out to those who can lend a helping, compassionate, hand.

Write down your feelings. (Compose a poem or write a story or a letter to your pet) Call your local animal shelter or vet to see if they can offer a helpline to a pet loss support group.

Arrange a memorial for your pet.

For those pet parents who have lost a pet and who are coping with this scenario at present, I understand how you feel.

Your companion may be gone from your life but never from your heart.

When you are ready, (and please do give yourself enough time to grieve), only then should you introduce a new companion into your life – and don’t worry, it’s not a betrayal to love another pet; your compassion and humanity to give a loving home to a deserving animal is to your eternal credit.

For more information, log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam. kerins@dspca.ie

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18 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs KOPING JOINS THE CITROEN NETWORK: CITROEN Motors Ireland is delighted to welcome Koping, Naas Road, Dublin 12 to the Citroen dealer network. Headed up by Paul Mooney, Koping have been in business since 1992 operating from the same site on the Naas Road throughout this time. With an experienced and stable team, (Paddy Lynam, service manager, has been with Paul since the start) Koping have brought service and expert product knowledge to customers for nearly 20 years. The strategic addition of Koping to the Citroen dealer network strengthens Citroen’s brand presence in the key Dublin area.

Skoda provides the option of Greenline technology, with an economical 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine in the big Superb Estate. The car costs from €25,895, plus delivery charges, and is ranked as the most economical big estate car on the market.

Skoda goes Greenline MICHAEL MORONEY has been on the road with the big

Superb estate car, where comfort meets economy SKODA’S Greenline range includes the big Superb Estate, and that was the car that I took to the roads in recent weeks. The Superb is a giant of a car, both in terms of seating space and boot space. And what a new surprise to learn that you can also get Greenline economy with the Superb that gives exceptional motoring value.

That probably sums up how I felt after a week with the Skoda Superb Estate. Skoda is aiming for economy as a priority – that shines through in the Greenline version of the Superb. Here is a giant of a car, fitted with

SPECS: SKODA SUPERB GREENLINE ESTATE 1.6 TDI Top speed: 109km/hr 0-100km/hr:12.6 secs Economy: 22.7 km/litre (4.4 l/100km) CO2 emissions: 114g km Road Tax Band: A (€104) Warranty: 2 years Entry Price: €25,895

a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine.

But, there’s a whole lot more to the Superb Greenline than just a tidy, small engine. While the economical 1.6-litre tur-

bo-diesel engine is a significant part of the story, there’s a lot more to this car besides economy.

The key to its impressive economy figure of 22km/litre of diesel (64mpg) claim is that Skoda uses five new technology options to get the end result. They are startstop, gear shift indicator, new aerodynamics, lowrolling resistance tyres and brake energy regeneration.

The start-stop system automatically switches off the engine when stationary. The engine immediately restarts when the driver presses the clutch to put the car in gear.

The gear shift indicator lets the driver know if the current gear is appropriate. It recommends changing to a lower or higher gear to achieve optimum engine speed, thereby attaining lower fuel consumption.

Aero-dynamics

The modified aerodynamics means that the car sits some 25mm lower to the road, a feature that is designed to reduce wind drag. And, the low rolling resistance with higher than normal air pressure gives extra economy.

And, lastly, Skoda uses a brake-energ y

regeneration process to generate electrical energy every time that you hit the brakes. The fact that battery energy is generated when the car decelerates reduces the burden placed on the engine by the alternator.

The downside is that, in the efforts to improve economy, Skoda is supplying a tyre-repair kit in place of the spare wheel. That bit does not impress me, as I consider that, in a car such as thi,s and with our miserable roads, a spare wheel is simply an essential.

Despite the relatively small engine size, it still produces 105bhp. That

gives an acceleration figure of 12.6 seconds for a 0 to 100km/hr dash, which is 20% slower than the 2.0 litre competition.

In practise, the car can accelerate well, and it’s not the type of car that makes you want to behave like a boy-racer.

So, it’s just about poweradequate and practical, as well as economical.

The big bonus is the economy figure – the claim is 22km/litre (4.4 litres/100km) which I failed to achieve. Maybe I wasn’t following the g e a r i n d i c a t o r we l l enough, but, overall, I returned a figure closer to 20% poorer. I’ll just have to do better!

Orders to open for Audi’s new and efficient Q3 SUV THE NEW Audi Q3 is Audi’s first foray into the smaller SUV segment, while attempting to retain a premium image. Orders for the third, and smallest, Q-model in the series will begin at the end of August with deliveries due by October.

The Q3 will have the distinction of being the first Audi SUV to offer the efficiency-focused option of a 19.1km/litre (54mpg) front-wheel-

drive variant. Pricing for the Q3 starts at €34,650 on the road for the 2.0-litre TDI 140 SE version, which is expected to account for the majority of orders.

Four engines will initially be available, all combining direct fuel injection with turbo charging. They will come with start-stop and energy recuperation systems. The 2.0-litre TDI is rated at 140bhp and 177bhp

and the 2.0-litre TFSI petrol unit in 170bhp and 211bhp power outputs.

The 2.0-litre TDI 140bhp unit will power the front-wheel-drive model only at launch, with a Quattro version joining the offer early in 2012.

With emissions of just 133g/km, the 2.0-litre TDI 140 variant resides in tax band B, qualifying the purchaser for annual road tax of just €156 per annum.

The Audi Q3 will be available for order next month

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY MALAHIDE: THREE-BEDROOM ACCOMMODATION FOR €310,000

Mid-terrace manor in Malahide

Number 44, Carriglea Gardens

DUN LAOGHAIRE: TWOBED HOME FOR €285,000

Carriglea living for home seekers GUNNE Residential are presenting No. 44 Carriglea Gardens, Dun Laoghaire, a twobedroom modernised and extended two-bathroom mid-terrace property to the market for €285,000.

The property boasts a bright, modern interior and is complemented by a mature private rear garden.

The property extends to 70 sq m and comprises entrance porch with Chinese slate floor, lounge/dining room that overlooks the front garden, and which has a timber floor, a feature fireplace with gas fire and recessed lighting.

The first bathroom has fully tiled walls and floor, a bath with Triton T80si power shower, a wash-hand basin with vanity mirror and wc.

The kitchen overlooks the rear garden and has an ample range of built-in wall and floor units, as well as a tiled floor and part tiled walls.

It features a built-in oven, a hob and extractor, single bowl and half Franke sink. It is plumbed for a washing machine and dishwasher, and there is a door to the rear garden.

The bedrooms are to the front and rear of the property, with built-in wardrobes, timber floorboards and recessed lighting, and one is en suite.

To the front of the property is a gated, paved front garden providing off-street parking.

The suntrap rear garden is very large, a private, low-maintenance space bordered by mature hedges and shrubs. The patio areas are bordered by railway sleepers and are perfect for outdoor dining. The two Barna sheds provide excellent studio, or additional storage space.

To arrange a viewing, contact Gunne Residential on 01 280 1719.

PROPERTYTeam Noel Kelly Auctioneers are bringing No. 66, Inbhir Ide, Malahide to the market for an asking price of €310,000.

This instantly appealing three-bedroom midterrace home has been lavished with care and attention by its present owners, which is evident from the moment you walk in the front door.

The main features of the property are Upvc double-glazed windows, a 72-foot rear garden which is not overlooked.

There are decorative timber floors, and the property is sold with all carpets, curtains and light fittings Situated in a prime

Number 66, Inbhir Ide, Malahide, is presented to the market for €310,000

location, the property comprises a porch with an aluminium sliding door and tiled floor, an entrance hall with understair storage area.

The lounge has a decorative timber floor, as well as a feature fireplace with

hardwood surround.

T he kitchen-cumbreakfast area has a tiled floor, oak floor and wall units, as well as a cooker, dishwasher, extractor fan, and recessed lighting.

The bathroom has tiled walls and flooring,

a whb, wc, and a Triton shower. There is also a mirror with light strip.

The three bedrooms are well appointed and have decorative timber floors and recessed lights.

The rear garden is 72ft

long, with a timber shed, a patio area, and an outside tap and external lighting.

For further details, and to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Noel Kelly on (01) 846 2752.

RATHMINES: ASKING PRICE OF €510,000 FOR THREE-BED HOUSE

Attractive family home in Rathmines

NEW to the market is No. 18 Rathmines Park, Dublin 6, a mid-terrace period residence, incroporating c1,310 sq ft accommodation, which is set in spacious, wellcared for gardens, with the added benefit of garage to the rear with vehicular access from Stone Mews.

Brought to the market by Douglas Newman Good, for an asking price of €510,000, the property has been excellently cared for over many years by its present ow ners, full of light with room to extend, subject to planning permission, the property is in an ideal location in this soughtafter area of south Dublin.

The accommodation is well laid out and comprises lounge, livingroom with open

fireplace and gas fire, breakfast room with extended kitchen, upstairs are three bedrooms, bathroom and large attic room ideally suited for a study, playroom, etc.

This sale represents an ideal opportunity for those wishing to trade up or trade down in this area. It provides all the facilities and amenities required for a young couple wishing to rear a family in this area.

It is situated in a quiet peaceful enclave off Upper Rathmines Road where houses rarely come to the market.

T he proper ty is a short walk to Rathmines village, where there is a wide selection of shops, restaurants and bars, cinemas, Rathmines Plaza and other amenities.

A host of buses pass

through the village and the property is within walking distance of the Luas line.

There is a variety of sports facilities in the immediate area, parks to include Belgrave Square and Palmerston Park and a wide selection of primary and secondary schools, including Kildare Place, St Mary’s, Alexandra College, Gonzaga, St Louis, and many others besides.

The city centre is within walking distance and the property is a short drive from the M50.

Alternatively it is also suitable for a retired family where everything is within walking distance yet the setting is off the main road, idyllic and peaceful.

Douglas Newman Good are handling the sale and can be contacted to arrange a viewing on Number 18, Rathmines Park, Dublin 6, has an asking 490 9000. price of €510,000

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS Interview: Jessica Daves, a Duty Manager at Newpark School Sports Centre

Life in busy Sports and Leisure Centre

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS MEDICAL CARDS I RECEIVE a great many queries from people

AFTER starting her career in the Leisure industry as a gymnastics coach, Jessica Davies has been a Duty Manager at Newpark School Sports Centre since 2002. She is married with two children (three-year-old twins) and lives in Wexford having moved there from Deansgrange earlier this year.

all over County Dublin, and beyond, about their eligibility for Medical Cards. Obviously, it would not be possible for me to answer them all individually and, indeed, it would be difficult to briefly summarise the qualifying conditions, but let me try and simplify the structure.

Habits She recently qualified as a GP referral co-ordinator, a new initiative launched by the HSE to get GPs to refer clients to affiliated Leisure centres to improve their lifestyle habits rather than the option of long-term medication. Newpark School Sports Centre, one of very few facilities offering this new scheme in Ireland, is located on Newtownpark Avenue, in Blackrock, and has been open to the public since 1973. Activities include a wide range of fitness classes, public swimming, fitness centre sessions with tailor-made programmes to suit all ages and levels of fitness.

Medical Card applicants are divided into 2 categories – those under 70 and over 70.

OVER 70 You qualify if your gross income, from all sources, is less than €700 per week for a single person, or €1,400 per week for a married or co-habiting couple. It is the gross income that is taken into consideration and no standard deductions such as income tax are allowable.

UNDER 70 To qualify, your weekly income must be below a certain figure for your family size. Cash

Interest Jessica’s interest in health and fitness began when she qualified as a fitness instructor in 2001 and then a personal trainer in 2002. She currently teaches Aqua-aerobics, swimming and fitness classes, along with co-ordinating the GP referral programme.

income, savings over a certain threshold, investments and property (except for your family home) are taken into account in the means test.

If you wish to establish your eligibility, or if you feel that your application for a medical card was unfairly rejected, you can check out

Contact If you would like to learn more about the activities and facilities on offer at Newpark School Sports Centre, or for more information on the GP referral programme, call in to see them or visit theiir website www.newparksportscentre.ie.

all the parameters on www.citizensinformation.ie or call to one of the many Citizens Information offices which are located throughout the country. Alternatively your local social welfare office ( www.welfare.ie ) you will find Jessica Davies qualified as a GP referral co-ordinator

most helpful in dealing with any of these individual queries.

Q&A Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be?

A: Olympic gymnast.

Q: What was your first job?

A: Summer camp helper.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: The Grange.

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: Started gymnastics here in 1991 and have been here since!

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Get to wear tracksuits and runners to work.

Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’?

A: Not enough.

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Gymnastics and Formula 1.

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at

Q: What sport can you play?

A: All sports.

Q: What is your guilty music/TV or movie pleasure?

A: Disney films.

Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward?

A: Jedward, as they have the fun factor.

Q: What music/pictures/ movies do you have on your iPod/iPad? A: Don’t know, my brother robbed it.

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: No, I’m not a stalker.

Q: What was your last Tweet/status update?

A: My curfew was the street

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

lights coming on, my mum didn’t call my mobile, she yelled my name, I played outside, not online. If I didn’t eat what my mum cooked then I didn’t eat.

Sanitisers didn’t exist, but you could get your mouth washed out with soap. I rode a bike with no helmet, getting dirty was OK, and the neighbours cared as much as your parents did. Repost if you drank water from the garden hose and survived.

runners.

Q: Describe your dream meal?

dives.

A: Sausages, beans and mash in a volcano shape made by my dad.

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Being a trainer on the Big-

Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna?

A: Dame Edna.

A: The Disney Store.

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Don’t own any shoes, just Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Having to use public toi-

www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

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lets in China.

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Water Villa in the Mal-

gest Loser.

Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: Travel.

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CALL 60 10 240

22 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL LovelyLisbon Magnificent Madeira is not a typical sun holiday PORTUGUESE HAVEN: OPEN FOR BUSINESS

The Pestana Palace in Lisbon

Living like royalty at the Pestana Palace in Lisbon

PAUL HOSFORD

PAUL HOSFORD

THERE is not a whole lot that makes me selfconscious about my appearance. I’m a handsome man, after all.

But, standing in the lobby of a national monument palace that’s been turned into a five-star hotel and member of The Leading Hotels of the World in a tatty pair of three-quarter lengths and a t-shirt that’s seen better days, is one time I will admit to feeling a little uncomfortable.

To be fair, I had travelled from Madeira that morning in sweltering heat, and the Pestana Palace in Lisbon would make anyone but Madonna feel self-conscious.

Which is good, as she uses the hotel’s royal suites when she’s in the Portuguese capital.

The beautifully-restored palace adjoins two modern wings and is a stunning piece of architecture. Nineteenth-century elegance abounds with dining rooms and drawing rooms making this feel like something completely other-worldly.

The hotel itself runs a shuttle bus to take guests the 10-minute drive into the centre of Lisbon, but a taxi is only €6.

Once in the city itself, I was in awe. Beautiful architecture, such as Praca do Comercio, a jaw-dropping square on the banks of the Tagus, whose Rua Augusta Arch is the gateway to the modern, thriving city that Lisbon has become.

Avenida da Liberdade, a 90-metre wide boulevard, features some beautiful buildings and is the central artery heading into the city. At its head is Marquis of Pombal Square and King Edward VII Park, two celebrations of Portuguese identity that, perched upon a hill, give a gorgeous view of the Tagus bay.

The Belem area of the city, near the mouth of the Tagus, is another gem.

Quiet and relaxed, it features some of the most stunning buildings Lisbon has to offer.

Belem Tower, a 16th-century defence tower, Jeronimos Monastery and the Monument of The Discoveries all sit within a short walk of each other, making this part of the city a walking dream and an history buffs heaven.

LAST year was a year to forget for Madeira.

Freak flooding, forest fires and Icelandic ash combined to make last year an annus horribilis for the Portuguese island, located 1,000km from the south-west coast of the country.

But, this year, the island is keen to send a message, echoing our own leader, that Madeira is open for business.

And what a business it truly is.

Though it survives on an economy that is roughly 65% based on tourism, Madeira is unlike a typical sun-holiday destination.

Part of that is because the location of the island, parked in the Atlantic, means that it gets more cloud than, say, the Canaries.

But more than that, it is just, at its core, completely

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‘Visually stunning, warm and welcoming, Madeira is a real treat for someone looking for good weather, and seeking to avoid neon lights and flying patio furniture’

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different.

Visually stunning, architecturally mind-blowing, warm and welcoming, Madeira is a real treat for someone looking for good weather, and seeking to avoid neon lights and flying patio furniture.

Touching down in Funchal itself is an experience – the runway perched over the sea and on the side of a cliff makes this a breathtaking landing. Nervous fliers would do well to avoid the window seat, however.

What to do

Our stay had us based

in Funchal, the capital of the island and main tourist hub. From here, any part of the island is reachable within two hours and it is a good thing, as all of the island holds attractions.

Rota dos CetáceosThe Way of the Cetacean, (Marina Shopping Centre, Avenida Arriaga, Tel.: +351 291 280 600, http://www.rota-doscetaceos.pt/) offer trips on semi-solid boats, where you can view dolphins, whales and all of the assorted sea life that lives in and around the island. (Swimming with dolmi phins €65, Adult ph non-swimming no €48, children €4 €33) €3 Madeira, having no contiin nental shelf, is n home to a vast h array of these a

Finding some shade to relax in in the centre of Funchal

creatures and Rota dos Cetáceos offer a free trip if you don’t see something.

The thrill of seeing a pod of Bottle-nosed dolphins swim yards from your boat makes this trip a must-do.

The Madeira Cable Car (www.madeiracablecar. com) offers a relatively cheap way to get a birdseye view of the beautiful scenery on the island, connecting Funchal with Monte Palace Gardens.

At €15 for an adult round-trip, the exhilarating ride will leave speechless and some clinging to the handrails.

Once you reach the top of the cable car, Monte Palace (http://www.montepalace.com/) awaits in all it’s splendour. Rescued

by Jose Berardo, the tropical gardens are a dream for gardening enthusiasts.

You can take the cable car back to Funchal, but why do that when you can have two men with rubber shoes push you down a hill in a wicker chair?

Toboggan rides operate from outside Monte Church and, though pricey (€20 single, €25 double), it is great fun and, after all, you are on vacation.

After all, what’s a holiday without hurtling downhill on a road that’s open to traffic?

Getting off-road,

Madeira Jeep Safari (http://www.madeirajeep-safari.info/) are experts in navigating the tight, heart-stopping roads of the island’s lesser-seen spots. A highlight of these tours are the levada walks.

Levadas are roadside waterways that carry water to the farms that climb mountains and hills on the island.

Taking a walk along one, one really gets the chance to see how people on the island live; indeed, we came across one woman, easily 70 years old, planting on a small farm that was at least 40 minutes walk from a roadway.

Prices vary, but a halfday private tour will cost €195, with room for six passengers, and I cannot recommend this enough, for something different.

There are more attractions of course, The Blandy’s Wine Lodge in Funchal, the stunning natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz, the Art Deco collection at Casa Das Mudas and the awe-inspiring scenes

7 July 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

Travel Briefs New digitallyenhanced food lovers guide to Ireland

Madeira is famous for its embroidery

From Funchal, any part of the island of Madeira is reachable within two hours, so places like the Ponta do Sol and São Vicente can be explored

from Cabo Girao, the second highest sea cliff in Europe.

In a space of 57 kilometres by 22 kilometres, Madeira packs it in.

Where to eat

Madeiran food itself consists of a lot of fish, which makes sense, it being an island. Black scabbard, tuna and cod are served in abundance and fresh, colourful vegetables abound.

In the centre of Funchal, Armazem Do Sal (Rua da Alfandega, 135, Funchal, Madeira 9000059, Portugal (+351) 291 241 285 www.armazemdosal.com/) stands head and shoulders above the other restaurants we sampled. Which, given the level of food available across the island, is saying something.

A platter of appetisers, comprising of caviar, passion fruit, duck breast and shrimp dishes, set the tone magnificently, before a starter of Foie Gras and apple chutney had me in heaven.

A main of cod confit and mash was perfect.

Light, yet absolutely flavoursome and cooked to perfection.

Were the dessert of raspberry panacotta with spun sugar not also absolutely amazing, I might have struggled to finish the whole thing. As it was, we had no such problem.

Adega da Quinta is about 15 minutes outside the centre of Funchal, but the scenic views and hearty, rustic food make it a perfect choice for an evening meal.

Espetada, a local dish of fillet beef on a skewer, barbecue chicken in a pot, sweet potato bread and an array of desserts combined to make this another gastronomic highlight of the island.

Where to stay

The island is replete with fabulous hotels, with three being part of Portugal’s largest hotel group, Pestana.

We stayed in the Pestana Casino Hotel, which is a luxurious throwback

to the glamour of travel.

Designed in the 1960s

by Oscar Niemayer, it’s bright, open spacess Travelling by wicker chair: Tobo ggan rides operate outside Monte Ch from urch in Funchal are suited to everyone, the health spa a perfect retreat for stressed bodies and the casino offers a chance to experience the glamour of Twomileborris. Sorry, Monte Carlo.

All in all, I can’t recommend Madeira enough.

Easygoing enough to offer a break, interesting enough to offer stories for home, Madeira is open for business and we’re luckier for that fact.

Paul travelled to Madeira and Lisbon with Concorde Travel & Tours. Concorde Travel specialise in the Mediterranean, specifically Croatia, Cyprus, Malta, Italy and Portugal.

Seven nights in Madeira start at €560pp, including tax, and seven-night packages to Lisbon Coast start at €599pp, including tax. For more information, visit www.concordetravel.ie, or call 01-77 59 300.

Praça Municipio in Funchal

Fresh food at Funchal’s The beautiful Porto Santo Beach

municipal market

GOOD Food Ireland once again leads the way with a new digitally enhanced food lovers’ guide to Ireland.

You will find a carefully selected collection of the best places to visit that are committed to using local Irish food on a new touring guide being released this weekend. The guide reveals a range of the best culinary experiences from restaurants, pubs, cafes, hotels and cookery schools, all centred on an Irish ingredient-led food experience.

Taking on board new technology, Good Food Ireland has digitally enhanced the guide with the use of QR codes. Each culinary destination listed has a QR code beside their contact details and, when a smartphone user scans the code, a local Google map is displayed on their mobile device.

The guide is on release this weekend and will be distributed in some national newspapers, the Hertz rental car network and through Good Food Ireland members.

If you would like your own personal copy, simply email the Good Food Ireland head office info@goodfoodireland.ie and they will post one out to you.

For more information on Good Food Ireland, visit www. goodfoodireland.ie

24 SWORDS GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT

THE HELIX 01 700 7000 Liz Taylor Film Season THE Helix continues its Liz Taylor Film Season until July 16, with the season’s second film, National Velvet, showing on Saturday July 9 at 2pm, followed by Cat On A Hot Tin Roof on Wednesday July 13 at 7.30pm.

All screenings take place in The Theatre. Season tickets are €20, or €12 concession. Entry to each showing is €4/€6.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Dun Laoghaire School of Music extravaganza LOOKING ahead a little, The Mill Theatre will soon feature some delightful music and performances from some of the area’s littlest citizens – with big talents Students from the Dun Laoghaire School of Music staging a musical extravaganza at the popular south Dublin evenue on Thursday, July 14, featuring music, theatre, dance and instrumental numbers, and more, creating a musical performance to remember, and showcasing the truly diverse and commendable range of talents of students at the popular school. The show starts at 5.30pm, with tickets priced at €13/€8.50.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Cormuin O’Raghallaigh - Mozart and Chopin recital Come along to this unique recital of Mozart and Chopin classics, from the award-winning Cormuin O Raghallaigh,a local teacher for Newpark Music Centre and Churchtown School of music. Recitals for the night will include Mozart: Sonata in C minor K.457, Sonata in B flat K.333, Chopin: Prelude in D flat Op. 28 (Raindrop) Ballade no.3 in A flat Op. 47. The two-hour show takes place on Saturday, July 9 at 1pm. Tickets: €10

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Past and Present Dublin 15-based artist, Desmond Kenny’s exhibition Past and Present, which opened last month, will continue until late August. Don’t miss this opportunity to view some of Kenny’s stunning abstract paintings, spread across two floors - New Work and Retrospective. This is the Hartstown artist’s first major solo exhibition of his abstract painting. The exhibition can be seen on the ground and first-floor galleries and is free admission.

SEAMUS ENNIS CULTURAL CENTRE 01 802 0898 Pokey LaFarge and The South City Three St. Louis roots musician Pokey LaFarge, along with his band, The South City Three, comes to the Seamus Ennis Cultural Centre on Friday July 8. LaFarge’s creative blend of early jazz, string ragtime, country blues and western swing has been widely lauded of late. This is one not to be missed. Friday, July 8 at 8:30pm. Admission: €20.

Sunday Sessions The Sunday Sessions continue every Sunday afternoon at the Seamus Ennis Cultural centre. The sessions always feature a host of local traditional musicians as well as some special guests. All musicians are welcome.

Free admission.

If you’re close enough to see one of these Transformers, you’re either in very big trouble, or just in luck, as Transformers 3 features one big scrap after another between clanking adversaries, while Humanity – and audiences – look on ...

No change in formula The latest Transformers film hasn’t changed the previous films’ secret of success, loaded with big bangs and little wit Q JONATHAN KEANE

IT’S only been about four years, but in that fairly short space of time, Michael Bay has managed to churn out his third Transformers film, this time: Dark of the Moon.

After the blinding success of the predecessor, it only makes sense for the franchise to do a third lap.

A heady cast is in tow for this one, with John Malkovich, Hugo Weaving and Josh Duhamel along with, of course, our central character, Sam Witwicky, brought to us

by Shia LeBeouf.

The important thing to remember here is that this is a Michael Bay flick so there’s little in the way of a captivating script and acting.

But, it can’t be denied that Dark of the Moon is rife with jaw-dropping special effects and 3D shots that well and truly

FILM OF THE WEEK: Transformers 3 +++ (12A) 154 mins Director: Michael Bay Starring: Shia LaBeouf, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Josh Duhamel, John Malkovich, Hugo Weaving, lots of robots

OUR VERDICT: MICHAEL Bay’s third outing with the robots in disguise is everything one would expect it to be, with colossal action scenes and hugely impressive special effects. If verbose carnage is your thing and it holds your attention for the entire bloated running time, then, this could be your film of the year, although Kate – who returns from holiday, next week – is unlikely to rate this as one to savour ...

shove the action in your face.

It’s all rather impressive and will be up there with some of the most impressive action scenes this summer, or even for some years.

Howe ve r, a t f i l m number three in the franchise, it still doesn’t deliver anything staggering in the way of something new.

You know you’re getting explosions – and explosions are exactly what you get.

This third instalment clocks in at an overwhelming 154 minutes.

The bloated, drawn-out running time serves to only remind you of how easily scenes can become one-dimensional and predictable.

It’s not all bad though, far from it.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon won’t delight in regard to script but the standout actions are truly unforgettable.

Only the truly dull and monotonous of cinemagoers would find themselves bored with Bay’s bombastically crafted action scenes.

Conspicuous by her absence though is

Megan Fox, who departed the franchise after the sequel.

Whether she was present for the third film or not, doesn’t really matter in the grand scheme of things.

Nothing too big has been changed and the portrayal of the rest of the cast remains as simple as ever.

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? Or, in the case of Michael Bay, blow it up.

Without giving away too much, the plot is rooted in the 1969 Moon Landing as well as the Cold War, which creates the latest strife between Optimus Prime’s Autobots and the Decepticons that has carried through to modern day.

Meanwhile, Shia LeBeouf is his usual self in the role as Sam, who’s fresh out of college, unemployed and ticked off about his whole situation in life, frustrations that are adversely affect-

ing his relationship with girlfriend, Carly, played by fresh-faced British actress, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Overall, the 154-minute running time is the sore thumb of Transformers: Dark of the Moon. A couple of scenes could easily have had a few minutes shaved off and with it, making the overblown action less drawn out.

Quality of quantity, as the old adage goes.

The die-hard fans of the Transformers franchise, as in the faithful that existed before Michael Bay scurried onto the scene, could be divided on how their beloved Autobots and Decepticons are portrayed here. Meanwhile, those who are looking for non-stop explosions, fire and action will undoubtedly lap this up. Either way, there’s enjoyment to be found, in some way, in Transformers: Dark of the Moon.

7 July 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 25

Wares you might feel wary about ADAM MAGUIRE

TECHNOLOGY is laden with words ending in “ware”. Most people are familiar with software and hardware, and maybe one or two others, but the ever-increasing number of “wares” can get confusing at the best of times.

Here are explanations for some of the more common “wares”.

install on a piece of hardware, and is also called programmes, applications or simply apps. That could mean an operating system, such as Windows, or an internet browser, game or word processor.

Hardware Hardware is any physical piece of technology – so, your computer is the hardware, as are all the bits and pieces inside the box (such as the hard drive, processor and so on). More recently, this has been applied to phones and tablets.

Freeware A combination of “free” and “software”, this is, used to describe free, legal versions of software. This freeware is often a basic variety of something, and encourages you to buy the full version.

Software Software is what you

Malware A combination of

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“malicious” and “software”, this term is a catchall for any type of dangerous software designed to damage your computer or steal your information.

Good virus scan software and a firewall is crucial. McAfee and Norton offer good paidfor options, while AVG and Avast are good, free alternatives.

Spyware This malicious software tries to secretly install itself on your computer and spy on your activities, to try to gain access to passwords, credit card details and so on.

A free programme, called Spybot – Search & Destroy is a good option for those looking to see if there is spyware on their computer. Scarily enough, there usually is.

Adware This is a virus that causes adverts to pop-up at every turn on your computer. If every website you visit seems to have obtrusive ads popping up all the time, this may be the reason why.

The previously mentioned Spybot is good at clearing these threats, as is another free programme, Adaware.

Scareware A relatively new threat, this is a dangerous piece of software that tries to shock or scare you into handing over money or credit card details.

One tactic, for example, is to tell you that there is a virus on your computer, and that you need to buy a certain piece of software to fix this.

This can often be made

to look like a legitimate warning but, if it is not coming from your own anti-virus software, ignore it.

HP Touchpad

IN A market dominated by the iPad, HP’s first attempt at a tablet is a strong one – the big question is: Can it can get the apps to back it up?

While Apple’s competitors, such as HP, have been slow to get to market with their tablet alternatives, the last few weeks has seen that change.

Motorola’s Xoom is hitting shelves, Samsung has updated its Galaxy Tab and Blackberry’s Playbook is on the horizon.

The HPTouchpad joins that list, and offers some-

thing a little different.

It runs on HP’s own WebOS software, which is extremely stylish and user-friendly. It is gesture-based, so it’s perfect for touch, and, while it was designed initially for phones, it looks well on the bigger screen.

Overall, the Touchpad feels good in the hand. It is slim and comfortable to

use, but does not feel flimsy.

It also manages to strike the same balance of the iPad, where it feels like a serious, even business-friendly device, without being boring.

However, as it runs on WebOS – which is way behind Android and Apple’s IOS – it does not have an awful lot of apps to offer.

This is something that HP will need to address – fast, as even the best tablet is nothing without the apps to install on it.

The HP Touchpad is available in Ireland from early July, from €479.

Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

GAZETTE

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 7 July 2011

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7 July 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

STAR TURN: Dublin Sports Awards winners for June are announced: Page 29

TOUCH RUGBY: IRELAND ‘EXHAUSTED’ AFTER THEIR WORLD CUP ENCOUNTERS

Touch teams get back from Edinburgh epics sport@gazettegroup.com

AF TER a gruelling five-day Touch World Cup tournament in Edinburgh, the Ireland Touch teams returned home on Monday proud of their achievements. “ We ’r e a b s o l u t e l y exhausted, but incredi b l y p r o u d t o h ave competed for Ireland against the best in the world in our spor t,” said president of the Ireland Touch Associa-

tion, Michael Davies.

“It was a tough tournament, with teams playing up to three matches a day. Every player gave their absolute best on the pitch and played right to the end.

“We had a great support team over there, and a big thank you should go to the coaches, managers, physios and support staff who coordinated our teams and kept the players

out on the pitch,” said Davies.

Twenty-seven countries participated in the event, with over 500 matches being played during the course of the tournament.

Australia took the honours in most categories, with many finals involving Australia and New Zealand, where touch rugby is a common social sport.

Ireland competed in four divisions in the

The amassed teams who represented Ireland at the Touch Rugby World Cup in Scotland last week

Mixed Open, Men’s Open, Men’s over 35s and Men’s over 40s categories.

Ireland finished 16th in the Open Category, and 11th in the senior age division. The Mixed Open team came 15th and the Mens’ Open

finished 12th in their category.

In the senior division, the Mens’ Over-35s finished 11th and the Mens’ Over-40s had the best result of all of the Irish teams, finishing fifth in their pool.

“There was some

great matches and each team had great support as they went out onto the pitches.

“For many of us, to compete at a World Cup was a dream. But to achieve it has been an oppor tunity of a lifetime. We trained

incredibly hard for this tournament, and each team should be proud of their efforts at the World Cup,” said Davies.

For more information about the sport, see www.irelandtouchassociation.com.

28 SWORDS GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteSport Sport

Fingallians’ players had the opportunity to play their counterparts from all over the city

Hurling

The hurling skills of the Fingallians players was put to the test

Fingallians play host in a wonderful hurling fest

ingallians’ GAA club in Swords recently hosted the PJ Troy Cup, an under-13 hurling competition. Clubs from all around Dublin took part, with St Sylvester’s, Naomh Barrog, Erin’s Isle, Ballinteer St John’s, Setanta, St Jude’s, Lucan Sarsfields and St Oliver Plunkett’s joining Fins on the day.

St Jude’s beat Naomh Barrog in the final match to take home the cup.

The club wishes to thank everybody involved, including the visiting teams, who made the day such an enjoyable success and especially the club volunteers.

F

Hitting for the hosts

Near neighbours, St Sylvester’s, were one of the opponents on the day

Every match was closely contested

Vital supplies on tap

No quarter asked for, and no quarter given in this cup contest

7 July 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 29

in association with

GOLF: ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL OUTING FOR SHEENA

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS JUNE WINNERS IN ASSOCIATION WITH

STARof theMONTH

LEEANNE ROYLE KARATE and martial arts generally do not see many stars emerging on an international stage so young, but Leeanne Royle, from Corduff Karate Club, is a such a star in the making, with a showing that earned her the prestigious Charles Naylor Memorial Trophy for the most outstanding child competitor at the Karate Union of Great Britain’s National Championships at the NIA Birmingham, Royle won the girls’ kumite event at the championships.

TEAMof theMONTH

MOUNTVIEW BOYS

MOUNTVIEW Boys’ Under11s are deserving winners of the team of the month after they came out at the summit of 900 teams who took part in the 2011 Danone Nations Cup, winning the national final at the AUL Complex in Clonshaugh. That performance earned them the right to represent Ireland in the world finals, which are held in Real Madrid’s Bernabeu stadium in October.

SUMMER is starting to heat up, and the sporting success of our teams and individuals continues to impress.

Our sports stars of the month for June are young stars very much on the rise.

Leeanne Royle has made an impression on the world of karate at a very young age, and will be a prospect to keep an eye on in the years to come, especially after winning the Charles Naylor Memorial Trophy for the most outstanding child competitor last month.

Mountview Boys showed their promise after coming out on top in

the Danone Nations’ Cup event at the AUL in a competition that saw 900 of the best young soccer sides in the country compete for the right to represent Ireland in October.

Let us know!

Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars.

Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ gazettesport.

Sheena McElroy with Rita Maher (Lady Capt Adare Manor)and Marjorie McCorduck (ILGU President)

McElroy secures third national title sport@gazettegroup.com

GRANGE Golf Club’s Sheena McElroy defeated Headfort’s Pauline Walsh to secure her third Irish Senior Women’s Close Championship title in four years at Adare Manor Golf Club last week.

The southside golfer raced to an early lead over Walsh and, at one under par, held a fivehole advantage at the turn. McElroy continued to underline her dominance of this event in recent years and closed out the match on the 13th green.

Throughout the tour-

nament, McElroy showed herself to be a force to be reckoned with.

She got off to a flying start in her semi-final match against Pat Doran from Donabate, and never looked back after turning into the back nine with a two-hole advantage.

Doran holed out solidly on the 15th to reduce the gap to one hole but McElroy immediately responded winning the 16th and a two putt par on the 17th ended the affair.

After leading the qualifiers in the morning, McElroy saw off eight qualifier Marilyn Hend-

erson (Royal Belfast) on the penultimate green in the quarter-finals the previous day.

In the Senior’s Plate Final, Gertie McMullen, of The Island Golf Club, defeated ILGU Chief Executive, Sinead Heraty, from Castle, on the 16th to win the secondtier title.

McElroy repeated her impressive showing at last year’s seniors’ championship when she defeated debutante Niamh Giblin, of Dun Laoghaire, at Tullamore Golf Club.

McElroy went on to lead the Irish Seniors Team at the European

Senior Team Championships in Berlin last August.

This year has been another successful one for the Grange member, winning the Portuguese Senior Ladies’ Golf Competition at Vilamoura in the Algarve in January.

In challenging wet and windy conditions, McElroy was thrilled to secure a two-stroke victory, which was made extra special with husband, Eamon, caddying.

She also finished as the top British or Irish player in joint third place at the Spanish Senior Championships at Santa Ponsa in February.

Win tickets to see UCD in friendlies UCD AFC have announced recently that they will host two friendly matches at the Belfield Bowl against Scotland’s St Johnstone FC on July 10, and Spain’s Villarreal CF on July 16.

St Johnstone finished eighth in the SLP last season, and have a long tradition in Scottish football. Former players include Sir Alex Ferguson and Ally McCoist.

Villarreal finished fourth in last seasons La Liga and so are qualifiers for next season’s Champions League. As well as this, they have a wide range of talented footballers at their disposal with Barcelona target and former Manchester United player, Giuseppe Rossi, on the top of the list.

GazetteSpor t and UCD are giving lucky

readers the chance to win pairs of tickets to these matches.

Simply answer the following question: Where was Villarreal striker Guiseppe Rossi born?

Send your answer, together with your name, address and mobile phone number, to sport@ gazettegroup.com, with “UCD Friendlies” in the subject line of the mail.

UCD’s Robbie Benson

30 SWORDS GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Special friends in Greece: Olympics come to an end TEAM Ireland volunteer Rachel O’Brien

from Swords, pictured here with Oliver Magee from Lisburn at the qualifying rounds of the bocce at the SEF Sport Training Halls, Peace and Friendship Stadium in Athens, were celebrating after Oliver claimed the gold medal in the men’s singles event in the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games ion the Greek capital. This has been a hugely successful Olympics for Team Ireland and theywill be proud of their achievements as they return to Ireland this week.

Get Messi at Dublin’s SWORDS R0VERS: UNDERAGE SIDES SHOW DETERMINATION Barca summer camps IN AUGUST, the FC Barcelona Academy coaches are coming to Portmarnock to pass on some of their Champions League-standard of knowledge of the game to young players from Dublin.

The camp caters for kids of all abilities, from ages seven to 16, and also helps educate coaches with the emphasis on players’ technical development, having fun and teaching the fundamentals of the game.

The new camp follows on the heels of the success of the workshop held with Barcelona’s coaches at Carton House earlier this year.

The camp takes place at Portmarnock AFC from Thursday, August 18 to Saturday, August 20 and runs from 9am to 12 noon for players aged from seven to 11 years, and from 2pm to 5pm for players aged from 12 to 16.

For more information, or to register for the courses, see www.dbsportstours.ie Swords Rovers saw a huge drop off in numbers last season, but their determination to provide sides for local players has been hailed

Rovers seek a home base JONNY STAPLETON sport@gazettegroup.com

DISAPPOINTING in one sense, but extremely fulfilling in another, Swords Rovers continued to defy the odds and battled their way to what can only be deemed a successful season in 2010/11.

Without a home to call their own, the local side have struggled over the last number of years, and last season had their lowest number of underage teams competing.

T he club experienced a massive drop with only five underage teams sporting the Rov-

ers’ crest in the recently ended term.

But whilst most would view that as a failure, the Balheary Road side view the season as a success.

They have once again excelled in diversity, and kept the team alive despite the lack of a base, which in turn prevents them from getting any grants or financial aid afforded to those around them.

“As long as there are kids wanting to play ball, we will provide them with a team,” Christy Trimble told GazetteSport.

“We had a massive drop in schoolboy

football this year, but we kept going and are looking to double the number of underage teams next season.

“We have camps running at present with 90 kids involved and a mini-league, which is open to all starts this week.

“As we have no base it is hard for us to compete with the other local sides. We apply for every grant under the sun but we can’t even get as much as grass seed.

“We are talking to the council, trying to get a base. If we had a home and area we could develop from, we could

do a lot better. But we are not giving up and we have done well considering.”

One area the Sword’s side have excelled in is the senior set-up. They are one of the few teams in the locality that have Sheppard underage players in the senior side.

Half the Sunday side, which enjoyed mid table respectability, comprised last year’s Under-18s.

The Saturday outfit, which also had a very youthful look to it and boasted former Rovers underage stars, only lost twice last season and

came close to claiming the championship crown.

“We did well at senior level. We had nigh on 60 players playing and training. The Saturday side came close in AFL Division 1 and the Sunday side finished the league strongly. They were unbeaten in their last ten and finished mid-table.

“The most rewarding thing was a lot of those players came through the ranks. Half the Sunday side were last year’s Under-18s. If we can keep bring players through like that we will do well.”

7 July 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 31

in association with

AFL 2: DEPLETED LAWLESS PARK SIDE DEFEATED

CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS CONGRATULATIONS to the Dublin

bers can be got by clicking http://

minor hurlers and footballers on

www.fingalcoco.ie/YourLocalCoun-

their Leinster titles.

cil/LocalDemocracy/Councillors/

Well done to the U-11 girls who

Tickets for the Leinster football

tournament on Sunday evening in

final can be collected on Friday

O’Toole’s ground.

evening from 9.30pm in the club.

Next Saturday evening there will

The club would like to wish Paul

be music in the club with Brendan

Flynn and the Dublin Squad, and

Linnane. The ladies section are

Brendan Quigley and the Laois

hosting a cocktail special. All mem-

squad, all the best this weekend.

bers and friends are welcome.

ing in the bar area. All members and

members and friends of the club

friends are most welcome to call in

to contact their local councillors

for a look and maybe a laugh.

and ask them for their help, as the

Stay up to date by following the

club urgently need more pitches to

club on our Facebook home page

facilitate the rapid growth of our

and also on Twitter.

Email addresses and phone num-

Injuries stymie Fins hopes of promotion AFL 2 Fingallians St Mark’s RONAN MOYLES

0-8 1-8

sport@gazettegroup.com

FINGALLIAN’S good recent run was ended by a 1-8 to 0-8 loss to St Mark’s at Lawless Park last Saturday evening.

The defeat means that they must now rely on others slipping up if they are to finish top of this year’s AFL 2 table.

“We never really got into it,” conceded manager Alan Hanrahan, when he spoke to GazetteSport last week.

“The effort in the second half against Peregrine’s last Thursday probably told on us a little bit,” he said.

“We had a few lads carrying knocks; in fact, we actually had five players come off. Three carried off, two of them struggling to walk. That stopped the momentum.

Just as we got going, we lost two players in the space of five minutes.

“After that, we were

always playing second fiddle to St Mark’s, who are a good side.

“There were a couple of lads with tight hamstrings and tight groins going in but, because we were short on numbers, we had to risk playing them.”

The result will be disappointing, considering Fingallians’ good form of late.

“We were on a run of fantastic performances and getting results that maybe surprised even us,” said Hanrahan.

“But we weren’t in it on Saturday. As I said to the lads: ‘If you don’t turn up you get beaten’. We didn’t turn up, and we were beaten.”

As for the rest of the season, Hanrahan feels it is hard to see past leaders St Maur’s as AFL 2 winners.

“Up until Saturday we had a chance of winning the league, and we knew that ourselves.

Now, there’s an outside chance and we’re relying on other people.

“Having played Maur’s twice this year, I can’t see them slipping. They’re well drilled and they have everything going for them.

“If they do win the league, it will be well deserved.”

Revising down Expectations will have to be revised down slightly for the Swords side in light of their recent fortunes.

“We’d be hoping for the second or third place finish, to give us a chance of a home draw in the play-offs.

“We play St Anne’s and O’Toole’s away in the league, and Round Towers, Clondalkin, at home.

“Those three teams

are up there so it’s still in our hands. To guarantee a high finish we need to beat those teams.”

Preparations are already under way for the cup semi-final against St. Anne’s, which was scheduled for this past Tuesday, but has been postponed until July 12.

“We’re hard back at it this week in training, and are hoping to get a few back but we seem to be on a run of getting two back and losing three.

“We’re just hoping there’s nothing else this week.

“The numbers won’t be very high at training, but we’ll rest the injured players up, and, hopefully, get them back for the game,” said Hanrahan.

All team pictures are now hang-

The committee are asking all

club.

Fingallians’ footballers had to endure an injury-strewn match against St Mark’s last week

Swords/

to o k p a r t in th e Ge r Ca n ava n

The current Lotto numbers are, 6,10,11,19 and 20.

FINGAL RAVENS DIV 1 team play St Jude’s in Tymon North on Friday, July 8 at 7.30pm.

Tickets for sunday’s Leinster final can be collected at the clubhouse

Well done to the U-11s girls who

this Thursday from 7.30pm to 8pm

competed in the Ger Canavan tour-

or on Friday in the bar of Kettle’s

nament last weekend, they drew

Hotel from 9.30pm to 10.30pm.

with Craobh Chiarain but were unfortunately beaten by Scoil Ui

Committee meeting this Thursday at 8.30pm in Kettles Hotel.

Chonnail, best wishes go to Thea

There was no lotto winner last

Clerkin who suf fered a broken

week; €20 prizes go to C McArdle,

wrist during the first game, get

Nicky O’Callaghan and Pat McDon-

better soon.

agh.

ST FINIAN’S THE adult hurlers have an away match V Ballyboden this week.

A table quiz will take place in Peacocks on Thursday, July 7 at 9pm.

There was no winner.

The €50 winners were Ann Maxwell and Des and Gus. Next week, the jackpot will be €5,600.

They are always a good night out.

The hurling summer camp will take

Put a team together or come along

place from August 16 to 19, while the

and join up with a team. Liam Cur-

football camp is the following week,

ran will be posing the questions.

August 23 to 26. More details later.

The lotto numbers drawn last week were were 2, 6, 14 and 15.

Check out the website for updates at www.stfinians.com

WILD GEESE THE junior footballers play their

lent wins in the league in the last

Sheridan Cup semi-final against St

week against Scoil Ui Chonaill , and

Anne’s on Thursday, July 7 in Old-

against Erin Go Bragh.

town at 7.30pm.

The junior hurler s pla y Realt Dearg in the league on Friday, July 8 at 7.30pm, in Ringsend Park.

Under-14 hurlers pla y Erin Go Bragh away on Thursday at 7pm in the league.

The Under-11 hurlers sit on top of their league table at the half-way stage, well done to them.

Un d e r -12 h u r l e r s h a d exc e l -

Well done to Scott Ennis, scorer of eight goals.

Hurling Cul camp is on August 8 to 12. For more information, contact Sean Flatley on 086 2305456.

Golden Goose lot to: Number s drawn were 3, 14, 16 and 34. There was no winner. €20 to M Lynch, P Masterson, PM. Next week’s jackpot in the lotto is €1,580.

ALL OF YOUR SWORDS SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

ROVERS RETURN: Swords club may be small but show their soccer spirit P30

JULY 7, 2011

THE BEST OF JUNE: Sports Awards winners revealed P29

Fingallians call on members to rally

GazetteSPORT

Thousands of players and scores of teams take part in Gaelic games with Fingallians each week

Council to be lobbied on providing additional resources in order for club to provide community with outlets STEPHEN FINDLATER swordssport@gazettegroup.com

FINGALLIANS has encouraged members and friends of the club to lobby their local councillors in order to help secure the resources needed to expand playing facilities at the GAA club.

Speaking to GazetteSport, club chairman John McGee outlined the north county Dublin club’s case.

“We are the biggest sporting organisation in north county Dublin.

“We have a thousand members and in excess of 50 teams, 10 of which are adult teams, and 50 or so juvenile sides, aged from six up to 18.”

McGee says that they simply do not have the facilities to cope with their current infrastructure.

“We’ve invested an excess of €2 or €3 million of our own money in the club facilities. We have one playing pitch in that.

“There are also two playing pitches in Bal-

heary, which is the public park across the road.

These are provided by Fingal County Council. So that’s three pitches to service 60 teams, and this is nowhere near sufficient.

“We’ve also had an explosion of numbers, particularly in relations to ladies’ football. And obviously they require their own facilities and pitches.”

The club are requesting a minimum of two extra pitches in order to cope with the numbers. Anything else, McGee says, would be a “disaster”.

“Obviously if we there were more than that available we’d be delighted to take them “In the current economic situation, we’re providing a voluntary sporting service to the community. We give children an opportunity to take part in team sports and, ultimately, try to build good citizens “We don’t normally ask for a lot, we try to be self-sufficient. But we simply don’t have the wherewithal at this stage to provide these pitches.

If we don’t get them, we will have to reduce the

number of teams, which ultimately means some children will miss out on playing the game.

“We’re looking for a quid pro quo from the council in order to help us help the community.

“I don’t want this to be seen as an issue between different sporting organisations,” McGee clarifies.

“We are not looking for other organisations to lose resources. Obviously, my affiliation is to the GAA, but as long as they’re taking part in soccer or rugby or hockey, or whatever, they’re getting exercise and that’s a good thing.”

Each year, various sporting organisation make funding applications to Fingal County Council and Fingallians applied in the last couple of weeks.

The various applications will be reviewed by the council and resources allocated appropriately.

Ultimately, the final decision is made by the councillors, explaining why the club has been so vociferous in encouraging members and friends to contact their local representatives.