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April 28, 2011
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Football: Fingallians buoyant ahead of SFC opener Page 32
Sports Awards: April stars and team nominees are announced Page 29
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ................8-10 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 23 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26
Lidl get green light for new store Q MIMI MURRAY
PLANNING permission has been granted for a Lidl discount store in West Swords despite an An Bord Pleanala inspector recommending that the application be refused. While the 1,666 sq m store has now been given the green light, and will be situated on the site of an existing petrol station forecourt, on the Rathbeale Road, An Bord Pleanala
has attached a number of conditions to the planning permission. The application was amended after the planning authority’s inspector said the “proposed development would seriously injure the residential amenities of the adjoining properties, which would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area”. Full Story on Page 4
All smiles: At a launch night for fundraising charity night LOCAL charities, including The Ross Nugent Foundation and The Laura Brennan Charitable Trust, as well as The Parkinson’s Association of Ireland and The Light of Maasai, are set to benefit from a special Who
Wants To Be A Millionaire fundraising night to be held at The Grand Hotel in Malahide on May 18. Pictured enjoying the launch night were Ellen Fitzpatrick and Cora Bannigan. Full Gallery on Page 10
2 SWORDS GAZETTE 28 April 2011
FastNews
NORTH DUBLIN: SURVEY SHOWS MASSIVE DECREASE
Property prices drop by up to 63%
Planning permission is being sought for extension PLANNING permission has been granted to JC Savages Supermarket for an extension to the existing supermarket at the Rathbeale Neighbourhood Centre in Swords. The proposed development will include an extension at the first-floor level comprising a staff meeting room and produce scan room for use ancillary to the existing JC Savage supermarket and for all ancillary engineering site development works necessary to facilitate the development.
Q DAWN LOVE
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Golf classic is to be held in aid of Zambian mission
Riding high: Swords rider enjoys success at top international show
A COUNTY Dublin rider was amongst a contingent of Irish pony showjumpers that represented Ireland at the recent international pony showjumping competition in Fontainebleau, France. Matt Garrigan, from Swords, joined the rest of the Irish team at one of the biggest pony shows on the international showjumping circuit. Riders were selected to compete at the event following a trial process, held over a five-week period. Matt took two top-ten placings, before going on the win the Grand Prix class on board Dr Spot. Horse Sport Ireland chairman, Joe Walsh, said: “It is fantastic to see our young riders performing so well on the world stage. Last weekend’s performance bode very well for the future of Irish showjumping.”
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‘Dropping prices when nobody is looking only makes a property look stale and vendors more desperate’ --------------------------
The strongest demand according to Real Estate Alliance is for new residential property close to urban centres, particularly traditional semi-detached and detached homes, when priced correctly. The demand for apartments and terraced homes in secondary towns is assessed as “poor” and there is no doubt that the higher-than-normal contract deposits being sought by lenders for this sector has effectively stopped sales - this is an area that NAMA are starting to look at with the two largest Irish financial institutions. Limited credit availability is still seen as the main impediment to sales proceeding and the spectre of a trend of rising interest rates are also identified as being a “significant” influencing factor amongst firsttime buyers considering entering the market place according to REA.
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A GOLF Classic will be held in aid of the Zambian mission in Swords Open Golf Course on Friday, May 27. Former Sporting Fingal player, Conan Byrne, is hosting the fundraiser in aid of his Zambian Mission. A team of four costs €200 and to sponsor a hole will cost €100. This includes 18 holes of golf at Swords Open, a goody bag on arrival, food at the 9th hole, finger food in a local bar afterwards and spot prizes throughout the day. All proceeds will go to the Conan Byrne Zambian Mission. Anyone who would like to support or take part in this event, can contact Conan at conan_byrne@yahoo. co.uk or telephone 086603 1389.
PROPERT Y prices in north Dublin have dropped by as much as 63% from the height of the boom, according to a new survey by nationwide property consultants, Real Estate Alliance. According to the survey a three-bed semi in north Dublin fetched €190,000 recently compared to €380,000 at the peak while a two bedroom apartment sold for €131,000 in March compared to €325,000 in 2007 which represents a 63% discount from peak to now. Real Estate Alliance is now calling on the Government to implement a National Property Register. CEO of Real Estate Alliance, Eimer O’Keeffe, said that to “truly ascertain the level of the marketplace it is important to look at actual sales at private treaty, rather than examining asking prices in various reports”. “As market activity is slow in the November / December period, many of our client vendors put off reducing asking prices until mid January / February 2011 when activity starts back up. “Dropping prices when nobody is looking only makes a property look stale and vendors more desperate. “There is no doubt that reports based on asking prices are inherently flawed as values for similar houses within the same estate can fluctuate wildly. “We now call on Gov-
ernment to immediately implement the long overdue National Property Register.” According to Group chairman Pat Riney, buyers are beginning to see an opportunity distressed sellers are making for opportunistic buyers.
28 April 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 3
SHOPPING Woodie’s celebrates birthday
COUNCIL: NOT PROVIDING LIGHTING IN THE FUTURE
FAI pitches are still in the dark Q MIMI MURRAY
swords@gazettegroup.com
THE lights will not be coming on any time soon at the FAI mini-pitches at Rivermeade and Thornleigh, it was revealed at a recent Balbriggan/Swords area committee meeting. Fianna Fail Councillor Darragh Butler asked the council if it would be possible to provide lighting on the pitches in the near future. In its response Fingal County Council said: “The mini-pitches were constructed during the summer of 2010, with part funding provided by the FAI. Both these minipitches are provided within areas of open space in residential developments. The council generally does not provide lighting on open spaces in residential areas, as it has been our experience that this can lead to congregation
after dark and complaints of anti-social behaviour. “There have been a number of complaints from residents adjacent to the mini-pitch in Thornleigh regarding play continuing after dark. These facilities were constructed to provide for informal kick-about football for children of the area. While the facilities are not suitable for adult games, or formal training sessions, the provision of lighting could make the areas attractive to clubs playing and training late into the evening, causing annoyance to locals. “There is no funding at the present time for the provision of lighting at these mini-pitches. If funding was to become available, the matter could be re-considered. However, lighting should only be provided with the full agreement of the nearby residents.”
Local pride: Launching the official 2011 National TidyTowns Competition AT THE OFFICIAL launch of the 2011
National TidyTowns Competition, Donal O’Ciobhain, of O’Ciobhain’s SuperValu in Swords, was calling on Swords to get its hands dirty for TidyTowns, as the competition officially kicked off for 2011. Whether you join a local committee and give it your all, or join in the fun for a couple of hours over a weekend, no matter how big or small your contribu-
tion, the message is that every pair of hands helps and all efforts will help make communities across the country a better place. This year marks the 20th year of SuperValu’s partnership with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government for this competition. TidyTowns is one of the world’s longest running environmental initiatives.
WOODIE’S DIY and Garden Centres all over Dublin, including Swords, is celebrating its 21st birthday with superb deals for DIY and gardening enthusiasts. Customers can avail of great discounts on paint, powertools, BBQs, garden furniture, lawnmowers, plants and compost. There are Early Bird Door Buster offers on the May Bank Holiday weekend, and there is the chance for 100 lucky customers to ‘Win the Value of their Receipt on a Gift Card’, with the text and online competition www.woodiesdiy.com. Ray Colman, chief executive said: “Our customers have tackled a lot of DIY, decorating, painting, home improvement and gardening over the years and, during our 21st birthday celebrations, we would like to thank them for their loyal support.”
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MEETING: FUNDS AVAILABLE
A big help: Raising funds for the ISPCC
FCC is granted €300k for local works
HARVEY NORMAN recently presented a €9,500 cheque to the ISPCC, their official charity partner. The sum was raised through collective fundraising activities by their branches and head office staff over the past six months. “Our partnership with the ISPCC has been in effect since October 2010 and we at Harvey Norman are delighted to help contribute towards such an important charity. With more initiatives in the pipeline, we hope the relationship between Harvey Norman and the ISPCC will continue to grow and prosper,” said Eoghan Carroll, ISPCC co-ordinator for Harvey Norman. “Thanks to their support, we will be able to train 15 new volunteers to answer calls from scared and lonely Irish children. These 15 new volunteers will answer over 22,000 calls in a 12-month period – calls from children who have nowhere else to turn to.”
FUNDING of €300,000 has recently been granted to Fingal County Council from the Department of Transport in order to finance important community infrastructure, including a wheelchair accessible footpath between Townparks Distributor Road and Skerries Train Station across the Ballast Pit. Labour Councillor, Ciaran Byrne asked the council what funding had been made available for the project at a Balbriggan/Swords area committee meeting last week. Not sufficient
T he council said: “Funding from the Department of Transport, in the sum of €300,000, has been recently granted to the council in the above regard. This sum, while considerable and very welcome, will not be sufficient to fund the full extent of the original scheme approved in 2009, and some elements of the approved scheme have, therefore, been deferred. “Thus, Phase 1 of the scheme, which is scheduled to be delivered in 2011, will consist of a fully accessible walkway over the Ballast Pit, from Townparks Distributor Road to the Railway station car park; signalised pedestrian crossing on the Townparks Distributor Road and a new footpath on the Ballast Pit side of the Townparks Distributor Road, from the new pedestrian crossing to the Dublin Road.” Detailed design drawings are being prepared in consultation with the Department of Transport and it is planned to go to tender this month, with a view to commencing works in July. Phase 1 is scheduled to be completed before the end of 2011.
AN BORD PLEANALA: INSPECTOR RECOMMENDED THE APPLICATION BE REFUSED
Lidl planning permission granted despite objection Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com
PLANNING permission has been granted for a Lidl discount store on the Rathbeale Road, despite an An Bord Pleanala (ABP) inspector recommending that the application be refused. The application is for the construction of a licensed, 1,666 sq m discount store on the site of an existing petrol station forecourt, along with the removal of all existing structures at Rathbeale Road. The planning authority granted permission, with certain conditions attached. The site is located on the west side of Swords, and the surrounding area
is predominantly residential in character with a small commercial component. The site is located approximately 1.5km to the west of Swords town centre on the north side of the R125 Rathbeale Road, which connects Swords to Ashbourne, County Meath, and the M2. Castlefarm
The site is bound to the west by a neighbourhood shopping centre that contains a Dunnes Stores, JC’s supermarket, a public library and a car park. The site is bound to the north by a residential area, which is characterised by two-storey semidetached houses at the Castlefarm estate.
To the east, the site is bound by a detached bungalow, with a long rear garden with a small caravan park and residential beyond, and is bound to the south by the Rathbeale Road with residential beyond. There is a small shopping parade located to the west of the site on the opposite side of the main road. T h e r e c t a n g u l a rshaped site comprises existing petrol filling station, convenience shop and a car-wash facility; a detached bungalow with a long rear garden and a vacant plot of land. The site boundaries are mainly defined by high walls to the west, north and east and a low wall to the north at Rath-
beale Road, a section of the northern boundary is defined by evergreen trees, which form a dense hedge. The site slopes down in a northerly direction from the Rathbeale Road to the adjoining residential area at Castlefarm, with an approximate 2m change in levels from south to north. Vehicular access to the appeal site, the adjoining neighbourhood centre and most of the surrounding residential areas is directly off the Rathbeale Road, while access to the residential areas located to the north of the site is off Watery Lane, which forms a junction with Rathbeale Road approximately 500m to the east
of the appeal site. Planning permission was sought to demolish the existing house, petrol filling station structure and car wash facility, remove the petrol filling station facility, canopy and decommission the fuel tanks. Car park
The proposed structure would be approximately 28m-32m wide, 70m deep and 7m to 7.5m high, with a standard “Lidl” design. It will also provide a surface level car park (82 spaces) in the western section of the site. In her report, the inspector said: “Having regard to the scale, height and depth of the pro-
posed development, its elevated location and its proximity and orientation to the south of the neighbouring dwelling houses at the Castlefarm estate, the proposed development would be a visually dominant and overbearing form of development that would also overshadow the adjoining properties to the north. “The proposed development would seriously injure the residential amenities of the adjoining properties which would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.” Having noted the inspector’s report, ABP amended the proposed development.
28 April 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 5
PROPERTY TD wants Government action on the major housing issue
Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com
A TASK force has been called for to tackle the ongoing discovery of pyrite in housing estates. Labour TD Brendan Ryan has told the Dail that the task force is urgently needed. Many housing estates across the Fingal area have been plagued by the problem, with no means of redress. Deputy Ryan put down an adjournment motion for debate calling for coordinated action from the Government to tackle this issue affecting many Irish homeowners. In calling for action, he highlighted the complexity of the issue and the manifold effects that pyrite can have on households. “There are many implications for those people coping with pyrite. Many people feel unsafe in their homes, due to the structural damage. “There is a growing stigma attached to this issue, too, with many worried that even if they get all structural problems
fixed, the possible resale of the property would be very difficult. “The phenomenon has raised anxiety, bordering on understandable panic among homeowners in the affected areas, as not only do many have to deal with negative equity caused by the reckless --------------------------
‘There are many implications for those coping with pyrite. It is a doublewhammy of anxiety and pain for many.’ --------------------------
Deputy Brendan Ryan --------------------------
property policies of previous Governments, but, now, they worry about further depreciation in the value of their homes due to poor building practises of developers. “Pyrite is a doublewhammy of anxiety and pain for many people. The Government needs to provide leadership for
A biting issue: How to keep your children safe around strange dogs
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‘Use task force to tackle the pyrite problems’
Labour TD Brendan Ryan ... Task force is needed urgently
those affected by pyrite. “I am calling for a task force to be set up to report within a very short timeframe, with a brief to fully examine all aspects of the pyrite problem, which has affected many homes throughout the country. “The make-up of this task force could comprise the various stakeholders, led by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, and including the developers, the insurers, local authorities and, of course, affected homeowners. “We need to get ahead of this issue and provide coordinated leadership for those affected and, most importantly, we need to find solutions,” said Deputy Ryan. Pyrite is a very common mineral, traces of which are found in the rock used to make crushed stone for backfill in the construction of homes and buildings. In the presence of humidity and oxygen, pyrite can form a chemical reaction that leads to swelling within the backfill, resulting in structural damage to the home.
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FastNews
TRANSPORT Freeze on Metro North project criticised by Senator
Colour-coded cable ties a no-go
Watermain work continues WORKS are continuing on the upgrade of the water main network in the Garristown area and there may be occasions when there is disruption to the water supply for short periods of time as these works are being carried out. The contractor carrying out the works on behalf of Fingal County Council has been asked to inform local residents in advance of any planned disruption to the water supply. Anyone with any queries should contact the Water Services Department on 01 8906210.
Fianna Fail Senator, Darragh O’Brien (top), wants Fine Gael’s deputy leader, James Reilly, to publicly declare if he supports the delay to the start of enabling works
Calls for clarification on Metro North position Q MIMI MURRAY
swords@gazettegroup.com
FINE Gael’s deputy leader, James Reilly, must clarify his position on the Metro North ‘freeze’, Fianna Fail Senator, Darragh O’Brien, said this week.
Clarify He has called on Minister Reilly to publicly clarify if he supports the “unreasonable delay” to the start of the enabling works for Metro North, “putting the creation of 260 jobs on hold indefinitely and throwing
the entire project into doubt”. Speaking in the Seanad, Senator O’Brien said: “During the election campaign, c o m m i t m e n t s we r e given on Metro North and a DART underground service, as well as connecting both Luas lines. “All these have been put on hold. The public was promised that, by the end of March, the order to enable work on Metro North would be signed by the new Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, but
today is April 20 and it has still not been done. “This has cost 260 jobs, while €80 million has been spent so far on the project. “If it goes ahead, the project will initially create 6,000 jobs in construction and it has the potential to create 36,000 permanent jobs in the Dublin and north-east region. “The public expects critical strategic projects, as outlined in the national development plan, to improve the quality of life for commuters and others.
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‘The future of that project, crucial to the entire Dublin and north-east region, is now in doubt as a direct result of the new Government’ --------------------------
“T he Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport [Leo Varadkar]
should attend the next Seanad to explain why he has not followed through on the commitments that he and his party gave prior to the General Election.” Speaking last week Senator O’Brien said: “During the General Election campaign in Dublin North, Deputy Reilly made explicit commitments about the future of Metro North. “The future of that project, crucial to the entire Dublin and north-east region, is now in doubt as a direct result of the new Gov-
ernment. “The people of Dublin North, and the wider region, deserve better. “Deputy Reilly should take this opportunity to publicly clarify his position on this project. “Is Fine Gael really committed to Metro North? Is this Government committed to building Metro North? “If the answer to both those questions is yes, then Minister Leo Varadkar can sign the order for the enabling works without further delay and put 260 people in employment.”
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USING colour-coded cable ties on election posters during election campaigns is a non-runner, according to Fingal County Council. Labour Cllr Patrick Nulty asked the council if it had any plans to introduce a system of colour coding in order to establish the ownership of cable ties that are left on lamp posts after elections. The council said that this suggestion has been made on a number of occasions over the years and, at first glance, seems to have some merits. However, on closer consideration, there are a number of practical difficulties that would make it impossible to implement, including difficulties obtaining enough different colours in constituencies with large numbers of independent candidates; difficulties getting good-quality ties and difficulties obtaining quantities of the various colours.
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28 April 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 7
PLAY Fight Night comes to Bewley’s Cafe Theatre
Aongus is in fighting form for his show SWORDS local, Aonghus Óg McAnally, is bringing his award-winning show, Fight Night, to Bewley’s Cafe Theatre from May 9. The local boy trained for months with the Portmarnock Boxing Club, under Cathal Redmond and former Irish Champ Oisin ‘Gaelforce’ Fagin, who is also from Swords, in preparation for the physically demanding role. On its first preview outing last September, it wowed audiences and immediately snapped up two awards, winner
of both Best Actor for McAnally and the Bewley’s Little Gem Award in Dublin’s ABSOLUT Fringe 2010. The play is a gripping journey charting the comeback of Dan Coyle Jr, a failed amateur boxer from a long line of accomplished fighters. Living in the shadows of his overbearing father and his brother’s Olympic success, Dan lets his training slip in favour of girls and booze. Incident
Then, an incident with his father minutes before a crucial bout splinters the family and exiles Dan from the ring. It’s
not until the birth of his own son years later, that his competitive fire is reignited, and he takes the first tentative steps on his road to redemption. Heartfelt
The play is fast-paced and a heartfelt solo performance by McAnally combines intense physicality with classic Dublin wit, in a storytelling experience that leaves audiences both uplifted and exhilarated. Fight Night was written and developed as part of Show in a Bag, an artist development initiative of Dublin Fringe Festival, Fishamble: The New Play Company and
Swords local, Aonghus Óg McAnally, shines in the play, Fight Night
Irish Theatre Institute to resource theatre makers and actors. Aonghus is a graduate of the Samuel Beckett Centre, Trinity College Dublin and also trained with Anne Bogart’s SITI Company in New York. Coming from a well-
known showbiz family and bearing the weight of expectation of such a dynasty, there are obvious parallels between the performer and his role, adding an extra layer of meaning and poignancy to this show. The play will run from
May 9 to June 11 on Monday to Saturday at 1.10pm. Tickets cost €8 on Monday’s, €10 from Tuesday to Thursday and €12 on Friday and Saturday’s. A light lunch is available for €4. For bookings call 086 8784001 or email info@ bewleyscafetheatre.com.
FINGAL County Council has said it will provide all the assistance it can to the Broadmeadow Community Garden. Fianna Fail Councillor, Darragh Butler, asked the council to ensure that it provides all possible assistance and grants available to the Broadmeadow Community Garden, a group of residents from Castleview and neighbouring estates, who, he says, are working hard for their local community. The council has already provided considerable assistance to the Broadmeadows Community Gardens by way of provision of the land for the gardens, the fencing, hedge planting material and fruit trees and bushes. “The efforts of Teagasc students were also coordinated by the council to erect the fencing and plant the hedges,” the council said.
141,000* PEOPLE IN DUBLIN READ OUR PAPERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements
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Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com
GARDENS Council to provide assistance
8 SWORDS GAZETTE 28 April 2011
EVENT New restaurant offering Indian and Eastern cuisine
Mixing it up at Mirchi HERE was good news recently for those who like a bit of spice in their life as new restaurant, Mirchi, held its opening night to give locals a taste of their delicious Indian and Eastern cuisine. Located on Townyard Lane, off the main street in Malahide Village, the new venue will serve authentic Indian food of high quality prepared by their chef who has worked in Ireland for over 20 years. There was a great atmosphere in the restaurant for the opening night as friends and family joined owner Hosnara Nasrin to support her on her new venture. Everybody was impressed by the delicious range of food on offer and by the very friendly staff.
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Lilian Foley, Hosnara Nasrin, owner, and Kieran Foley. Pictures: Peter Doyle
Atish Juggoo, Chef
Emmet and Rachel Brady
Yvonne Costello, Dee Hughes and Paula McEvoy
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is packed with locals for its opening night celebrations
Mary Ellard, Deirdre Dunphy, Evelyn Dunne and Alogue Halpin
Aoibheann Brady, Mustafa Shirzi and Caoimhe Reid
Ridoy Rahman and Hosnara Nasrin, owner
Trishna Chumroo, Caoimhe Reid and Ridoy Joe Clarke, Trishna Chumroo, Liz Harford and Declan Harford
Nischal Ghimire with some of the delicious food on offer
Rahman
David Delaney and Catherine Behan
Sandra Nugent, Nasrin Hosnara, owner, and Emma Nugent
10 SWORDS GAZETTE 28 April 2011
EVENT
Who Wants To Be A Thousandaire at Grand Hotel
Adam Fanning
Question of raising funds N exciting, fun-filled night is in store for all at The Grand Hotel in Malahide with a Who Wants To Be A Thousandaire fundraising night. Based around the popular TV show, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, the night features a fully computerised show with 50/50, Phone a Friend and Ask the Audience. Five 8ft x 6ft screens will display all the action as contestants are given their choice of four answers to a question and the amount of money increases as the correct answers are given. The event, which promises to be very popular with participants, will raise funds in aid of Malahide Community School Kilimanjaro Trek, The Ross Nugent Foundation, The Laura Brennan Charitable Trust, The Parkinson’s Association of Ireland and The Light of Maasai.
Ellen Fitzpatrick and Cora Bannigan. Full Story on Page 5. Picture: Peter Doyle
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Committee members: Back row, Robert Conlon, Colm McGrath, Austin Doyle, Andy Byrne, Sandra O’Reilly, Sandra O’Connor, Angela Ward, Nigel Ward and Tom Shanahan from Pallas. Elizabeth Doyle
Front, Peter Rooney, Susan Caprani, Brid Hennessey and Linda Conlon
Teachers Martha McNamara and Rachel Corcoran with Adam Fanning, Sarah Rooney, Eoin Costello, Alex Conlon, Elizabeth Doyle, Jonathan Robert Conlon, Michael Dawson and Sandra O’Reilly
Fanning, Kevin O’Connor, James Keely, Dearbhla Ward, Jordan Byrne and Eoin McGrath
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FETAC
COMMERCIAL FEATURE
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National Framework of Qualifications
Great employers know… there are over one million reasons to choose FETAC! EVERY business aims for highly skilled flexible employees who can not just do the job in hand, but who can take one new learning and challenges too. You want to choose the best person for the job and then make sure they stay ahead. Choose applicants who have quality assured FETAC awards that are part of the National Framework of Qualifications. The National Framework of Qualifications is a ten level Framework that makes it easier to understand awards in education and training in Ireland. FETAC, the Further education and training Awards Council, makes awards at levels 1-6 of the National Framework of Qualifications. The National Framework of Qualifications allows for different award types which ensure that achievement in learning can be appropriately recognised and understood, step by step. Major awards recognise a large amount of learning, resulting in the achievement of Certificates. Certificate titles include the level of the award, for example, Level 5 Certificate Business Studies. Minor awards recognise smaller amounts of learning and are coherent in their own right. Minor awards are the essential building block for FETAC awards. Minor awards lead to
Component Certificates. Special purpose awards recognise a narrow range of learning that is typically specifically focused on employment, for example Level 5 Road Winter Maintenance. Special Purpose Awards lead to Specific Purpose Certificates. Supplemental awards, leading to Supplemental Certificates, recognise the learning that follows other awards. They update prior learning, and help employees stay ahead of the curve or to comply with new leg-
islative requirements. For more information on the Framework, view www.nqai.ie .
Making recruitment easy When you choose a FETAC award, you can be confident that the skills are relevant to today’s employment standards. Applicants will have a knowledge base that enables them to keep on learning and to up-skill as required to help your
business stay ahead. Key competences valued by employers such as communications, team working and interpersonal skills are built into award structures. Awards requirements and standards are published on www.fetac.ie in the Awards Directory so you can check for yourself what lies
behind the certificate. If you are recruiting staff, check out our Employers page on www.fetac.ie. It provides advice on how to frame advertisements so as you get the best information from potential employees. For example, many employers now frame recruitment requirements according to the Framework: ‘Successful applicants will have a level 4 qualification or equivalent.’ You may also want to
understand how qualifications achieved outside of Ireland relate to Irish qualifications. The National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI) provides a free service to employers to assist with this. View www.nqai.ie A FETAC award is generally achieved through further education and training provision and is quality assured. FETAC awards can be achieved following programmes offered through VECs, FÁS, Fáilte Ireland, Teagasc, a wide variety of private providers / training companies, including in the workplace or in a community setting. Further education and training in Ireland is known for its dynamism and innovation, but also because it is genuinely accessible to learners nationwide, in over 1,500 centres.
One Million reasons… In 2010 FETAC celebrated over one million people achieving a FETAC award. This means that roughly one in three people of working age have a FETAC award. Most are adults, who have taken the time and
made that commitment to continuously learning, tackling gaps in experience, stretching ability, engaging with new ideas and knowledge. FETAC people with this kind of energy are just what your business needs. President McAleese described FETAC learners as people who take ‘control, adjusting to the changing economic conditions, getting ready for the new labour market requirements, using their time well and investing in the optimism that comes from doing something positive. It is people with that cool mixture of realism and optimism and ‘can do’ attitude that will help Ireland become a stable and prosperous economy in the months and years ahead.’ A unique celebration was hosted in Dublin, among the audience were some leading employers who found that providing training on site as part of the workplace not only increased staff commitment to quality, but also increased compliance with essential health and safety requirements. Learners themselves give the FETAC system the ‘thumbs up’; Timothy Forde completed his Level 6 Supplemental Certificate Domestic Gas Installation with FÁS so as to be fully equipped to start his own business in a niche market. Timothy saw learning and awards as ‘stepping stones to future suc-
Over one million people have a FETAC award. Enrico Jennings, Tsvetolina Tonova, Timothy Forde and
cess…It is very important that I undertake learning in my relevant expert field.’ Yaoweii Sun achieved the Level 5 Certificate Information Technology while working as part of the management team at Dominos Pizza. ‘Education opens doors and opportunities. It gives you options and helps you think differently. Completing my FETAC course helped me develop both career and life skills. It has given me perspective and helped me improve my ability to communicate effectively.’
FETAC - taking people further…. FETAC provides an important route into higher education for many learners, including those in the workforce. In 2010, almost one in five learners applying through CAO to Higher Education indicated that they had a FETAC award. Institutes of Technology and Universities continue to expand entry routes for FETAC award holders. Michael Cloo-
nan from Inishbofin built on the local rich tradition of hospitality by taking a Fáilte Ireland programme in the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology first in Bar Skills at level 5. Now Michael has progressed and is studying for his Bachelor in Business in Bar Management. Participating in ‘programmes and awards give me a great foundation not only for industry but for life’ said Michael. Employers such as Monaghan Mushrooms use programmes leading to FETAC awards to ensure consistency across work practices and to provide structured career paths within the industry. If you think this is what your staff or organisation needs, consult the Employers Page on www.fetac.ie. FETAC is glad to work with employers to ensure Ireland is ready and skilled to shape and make opportunities for all of us. There are one million reasons to choose FETAC. Are you one?
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Mulcahy, Michael Cloonan, Carmel Boylan, Seรกn Walsh, Ann Marie BrettJoseph Barry celebrate.
COMMERCIAL FEATURE
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FastNews PROGRAMME A total of 300 placements available Don’t miss your chance ONE lucky Dublin couple could have their dream wedding as goldenpages.ie are offering a Gold Wedding worth €30,000. Voting is about to close for couples who have entered the competition on goldenpages.ie. The three couples with the most votes will go through to the final where one very lucky couple will be crowned the winner. The winning couple will receive a Gold Wedding worth €30,000 on two conditions: 1, they must get married on Saturday, September 10 this year, and 2, they must accept a second “mystery condition”, which will be revealed when the winning couple is announced. Voting deadline is Friday, April 29.
Getting back to work with beginagain.ie Q STAFF REPORTER
EXPERIENCED and professional individuals in Dublin, who are eager to rejoin the workforce, have the opportunity to take up some 300 work placements provided by Begin Again (www. beginagain.ie), a career advancement programme developed by the Irish Centre for Business Excellence (ICBE). The programme, which was launched in 2010, has already placed over 400 unemployed people in work placements throughout Ireland. Over 240 of these have now returned to employment, providing the
exchequer with an additional estimated €4.8m on an annualised basis. The programme is a mix of certified training, internship and mentoring, with four central themes; employment and employability, resilience and wellbeing, innovation and enterprise and life-long learning and training. Having recently completed the programme, Dubliner Clare Curtin said: “The Begin Again programme has not only helped me secure employment, it has also very professionally blended my expertise with the company’s requirements. Begin Again is the only programme that has
offered me anything concrete in terms of employment opportunities.’’ Over 300 Companies have taken part in the programme to date, with established companies such as Supermacs, Boston Scientific and Bewleys all providing work placements and full-time employment opportunities. Funded by the Labour Market Activation Fund, the Begin Again programme has enabled people who were experiencing both short-term and long-term unemployment to gain that crucial foothold back into the workforce. To date, 41% of participants
Mike Gaffney, of Begin Again, and programme supporter, Mark Fielding of ISME
have obtained employment, 19% have gained self-employment or contracts, with a further 5% re-entering the education system. A further 21% are currently in workplaces with real job prospects. Begin Again participants retain all of their social welfare benefits during the work placement programme. Explaining the impact of Begin Again, Pat
O’Connor, CEO of the ICBE said: “We have seen participants come from a broad range of backgrounds and educational levels, including engineers, accountants, quantity surveyors, sales and administration professionals and operational level people. Having had a successful outcome for over three-quarters of our 400 participants, 49% of whom were long-term
unemployed, we believe we are providing a valuable service for the Irish public and the Irish State. We estimate that Begin Again is costing less than 50% of any previous government-sponsored labour market activation programme.” For further information on the Begin Again programme go to www. beginagain.ie or call 061 371753.
28 April 2011 GAZETTE 15
FESTIVALS Foodies, rejoice – Taste of Dublin is coming up
Vogue Wilson
Sheana, Eabha and Molly Lewis can’t resist following Ross Lewis’s fruity fare
Tempting event to tickle taste buds ... HE sixth annual Taste of Dublin is set to once again tickle taste buds, when the outdoor food and drink festival takes place from June 9 to June 12 in the serene surrounds of the Iveagh Gardens in Dublin 2. The festival will feature al-fresco dining, wine tastings, live chef demonstrations and the chance to meet more than 100 artisan food producers, as well as a number of well-known
T
foodie faces and celebrities, including Gino D’Acampo, Derry Clarke, Conrad Gallagher, Catherine Fulvio, Ross Lewis and Neven Maguire, to name but a few. With Superquinn once again on board as headline sponsor, tickets are now on sale from the ticket line at 0818 300 030. For further information on the delightful, delicious festival, see www.tasteofdublin.ie.
Eabha Lewis
Vogue Wilson was helping to promote the event
Top foodies, Ross Lewis and Catherine Fulvio
Molly Lewis
16 GAZETTE 28 April 2011
Gazette Contacts
SNAPSHOT The stories of the day
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Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com
Every little face... PICTURED launching the Face of Tesco – a competition to find three staff members to model in the company’s 2011 Autumn Winter Clothing Campaign, are the judges - model agency boss Rebecca Morgan, fashion editor Bairbre Power and fashion expert Darren Kennedy along with models Ellie Murphy and Carl Shaaban. Prizes for the winner include modelling in the Autumn Winter Clothing photo shoot, a Tesco wardrobe, a professional hair and make-up consultation, and more.
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.
Get your hats out for a right royal Dublin do WHY NOT celebrate Prince William’s marriage to Kate Middleton, this Friday, April 29, at Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Killiney, with an afternoon to remember? Guests can enjoy a glass of Prosecco on arrival, then sit back, relax and view the royal wedding on screen, while enjoying a delicious three-course lunch. Come along with friends and watch as history is made, when the heir to the British throne marries his college sweetheart. Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel is located just a stone’s throw from Dalkey, and enjoys stunning views over Dublin Bay. The Royal Wedding Lunch Package costs €29.95. To make an enquiry, or booking, please contact reservations on (01) 2305556 or email reservations@ fitzpatricks.com
Acting for beginners AN Acting for Absolute Beginners course starts on May 15 and runs for 10 weeks in Dublin city centre. With students from Lucan and Swords already signed up for the course, tutor Ronnie McCann says he is looking for students from all over the city to take part.
DIARY The course introduces students to the basics of acting and offers a hands-on practical approach that will get the creative juices flowing and explores new and inventive ways to become the next De Niro or Winslet. Ronnie McCann has been a professional director and actor for 20 years and, as an actor, he has been in many television dramas and is also a regular in Casualty. He has also been in several feature films and has worked on camera and stage in Europe as well. He trained at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama and Lee Strasberg in New York. He also teaches acting for camera and directing at several leading drama colleges, including the Gaiety School. “There will be lots of laughter, excitement and fun. If you think ‘I wouldn’t have the talent’, but your instincts tell you differently, this is the course for you. It is a great way to meet new people, explore new ways to communicate and develop new skills that you can use in life,” Ronnie says. The course takes place on Sun-
days from 2pm - 4.30pm in the church just off Frances Street. It costs €140 for 10 weeks. Contact 086 7838619 / 01 6293976 to book.
Support Norris and Aware A QUIZ night will be held in aid of AWARE and Senator David Norris in the Grand Hotel in Malahide this Friday, April 29. Sheila Byrne, who is a fundraiser for Senator Norris’s presidential campaign said: “I have met with the CEO of AWARE and he is delighted that they will be part of this fundraising night. A lot of charities are finding it difficult to get funds due to the downturn of this wonderful island of ours. Fortunately, with positive thinking and helping each other it won’t be long before we get this country up and running again. “During the course of his election campaign, and if he is elected as the next President of Ireland, Senator Norris will focus on three key areas in our society and will shine a light on the key issues associated with these three areas: Mental Health and Wellbeing, Culture, and Enterprise,” Sheila said. The quiz night kicks off at 8pm. All are welcome.
28 April 2011 GAZETTE 17
GazettePETS PETS
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
THE FACTS: IT’S IMPORTANT TO RESPECT A DOG’S INSTINCTS AND ITS FEARS
Keep your child safe around strange dogs E all know that man’s (and woman’s) best friend is the dog! Dogs love us unconditionally and their level of gorgeousness goes right off the, well, the gorgeousness scale. You can tell I’m a doggie kinda gal? However, even the nicest doggie has been known to bare his gnashers and, quite often, it’s a small child who bears the brunt of his anger. All parents know that kids go off the rails when they spot a dog. Their natural instinct is to run up and pet the animal, try to hug it, pick it up and scream and squeal with excitement, often upsetting the poor pooch, albeit unintentionally. Now, to a small child and even an adult, this
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type of adulation is a normal reaction and appears cute – to a dog it spells something entirely different. Sudden movements and loud, ear-splitting screams often cause the poor dog to feel fear and could promote an aggressive response in the friendliest and most easygoing of canines. So, as a parent, what can you do to protect your child from strange dogs? Well, here are a few tips I hope will come in handy. • Teach your child to respect a dog’s instincts and most importantly, its fears. When around a strange dog, ask your child to speak quietly and to move slowly – no running around making mad flapping movements. • Never allow your child
to ride a bike, a flicker scooter or skate too close to a strange dog. Some dogs feel scared because they are not normally used to these things, and may even chase the moving object because such behaviour can trigger a dog’s natural prey instinct. • If a strange dog gets too frisky or excited around your child, then teach the child to behave like a statue. Your child will need to drop any food or toy they’re holding and stand still, like a statue or a tree. Statues are boring for dogs – they will usually come over, sniff and go away. Practise this with your kids, so they know exactly what to do if a dog rushes at them. • Teach your child to
Even friendly dogs can be aggressive when provoked
never, never, and again I stress, NEVER pat a dog without the owner’s permission. I’ve lost count of the times kids have rushed up to me in the park to try and grab hold of my dogs’ heads and attempt to rub them and, when I pull my
dogs away, the parents get stroppy. There is a reason why you must seek the owners’ permission. Some dogs, two of mine included, do not like strangers patting them and may become aggressive due to nervousness. Teach your
child to respect a dog’s personal space and his right to refuse to be patted by strangers. • If the owner gives permission, teach your child to approach the dog slowly and quietly and allow the dog to sniff the back of the child’s hand – then gently pat the dog’s chest, sides or back. Dogs don’t generally like to be rubbed on their heads. Keep your face away from the dog and never stare into its eyes. For very small dogs, your child may need to kneel down, keeping the top half of the child’s body straight and not bend over the dog. • Tell your child it’s a big no-no to sneak up on a dog that is eating or sleeping. If a dog is eating, your child must wait until he has moved away
from the feed area before approaching him. If the dog is sleeping, your child needs to stand back and call the dog out of his bed if they wish to give him a cuddle. • Puppies! Never allow your child pick up a puppy. Mummy dogs are very protective of their babies, just as humans are, and may bite the child if she thinks they will hurt them. •Make sure your child doesn’t approach or pat a dog that has his head sticking out of a car window. It’s likely the animal is protecting and defending what he perceives as his space. For more information, log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie
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GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs VW GROUP GROWS TO RIVAL TOYOTA:
V O L K S WA G E N has reported that its first quarter delivery of new cars rose by 13.7% to a record 1.97 million vehicles. VW also reported record deliveries for March, with sales of more than 767,200 cars, up 8.1% from a year ago. VW aims to pass Toyota as the world’s best-selling car brand by 2018. In 2010, VW group sold a record 7.14 million units, ranking it third behind General Motors with 8.39 million and Toyota with 8.42 million. The Germanbased company has reported that car sales growth in regions such as China, India or Russia produced a strong performance. The company’s core VW brand sold 1.23 million cars between January and March, a rise of 10.4%.
The new BMW X1 xDrive28i uses the first of the new generation four-cylinder petrol engines to give improved acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, taking just 6.1 seconds, as well as a 16% improvement in fuel economy. Inset: The BMW-designed electric motor, which will be used in BMW electric cars in the future. The motor is claimed to be over 90% efficient and produces in excess of 160bhp for fast acceleration
Impressive engines MICHAEL MORONEY visits the BMW headquarters in
Munich, where he got a glimpse of things to come MWhas set a name for itself with its Efficient Dynamics technology that has boosted diesel engine performance far ahead of where people would have believed possible 10 years ago. I was in Munich last week to hear and discuss with BMW engineers where the next move will be. There were three areas where BWM focused on during what they call their annual Innovation Day. These were new engine designs, the development of the electric car and new lightweight car components. The target remains the same – giving enhanced driving pleasure in quality cars consistent with reduced fuel consumption. That’s the basis of the Efficient Dynamics concept and development director at BMW, Dr Klaus Draeger, said that this remains true as
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the core principle of the company. The big news was the announcement of a complete new line-up of engines that will be fitted to BMW cars in three to four years time. BMW has invested €300 million in this new enginedesign concept that will give them huge savings through new economies of scale. BMW expects that, while the move to electric cars will accelerate, the sales of electric or even hybrid cars will not be more than 20% of the total market. That’s why the company continues to put a lot of effort into to increasing the lead that the Efficient Dynamics approach to conventional car engine design has given them. That has been confirmed by the fact that, in 2010, and for the sixth time in a row, the BMW Group was named the most sustain-
able automobile manufacturer in the world by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index. There will be a new family of three, four and six-cylinder engines in diesel and petrol format, all using the same basic design. This will mean common parts, such as engine structures and fittings, even pistons and camshafts, making engine assembly easier, and bringing big savings in terms of economies of scale. But the changes are not big enough to expect a drop in prices, according to the company; it will be more of a situation where they will give better economy and performance without increasing the prices into the future. These new engines will feature a new BMW TwinPower turbo-charging system that ensures more power and lower fuel consumption in both
petrol- and diesel-fuelled cars. We had an opportunity to take a short test drive in the first of these new engines, a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that was fitted to the new X1. In the new BMW X1 xDrive28i, this engine has improved the acceleration of the vehicle from zero to 100 km/h, taking just 6.1 seconds. The new engine delivers 245bhp. This is over 70bhp more powerful than BMW’s previously most powerful four-cylinder engine. The engine produced a huge level of torque for a petrol engine and even more impressive is the fact that it does so at a low 1250rpm engine speed. BMW claims that the new TwinPower Turbo engine even surpasses a BMW six-cylinder engine in terms of response and pulling power. On the electric car front BMW has created
what it calls a new subbrand, called the Megacity vehicle. The company will have two models on offer in 2013, a full electric car, the i3, and a plug-in hybrid petrol car, the i8x. BMW told us that they are developing their own electric motors, voltage invertors and high voltage storage systems. The aim is to develop a system that achieves flexibility for future hybrid and electric vehicles. Each battery storage unit of the future BMW hybrid or electric vehicle comprises a different number of modules, which in turn, each consists of a specific number of battery cells. These are interconnected in series in order to match the power and energy capacity needs of each vehicle. The new lightweight technology being planned for future BMW cars aims to cut the over-
all weight of the cars. That, too, will improve fuel economy. Plastics are going to be used to a greater extent, along with carbon fibres, some developed from agricultural crops, to produce vehicle body panels and insulation materials that incorporate new types of resins that make them strong, yet light. BMW is researching every aspect of the cars for the future to make them more sustainable in terms of economy and easier to build in a process that causes less lasting damage to the environment. T hat means using products in their manufacture that can be grown within Europe. These of their own accord can mean new opportunities for farm crops and some of the materials show during the Innovation Day provided real evidence of this.
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20 GAZETTE 28 April 2011
GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs Skoda sponsors Tipperary GAA SKODA is the new GAA sponsor of Tipperary GAA. The three-year sponsorship agreement, which begins following the 2011 National Leagues, will see Skoda Ireland invest approximately €200,000 into the Premier County per annum. As part of this sponsorship agreement, Skoda and Tipperary GAA officially unveiled the new 2011 Jersey at Croke Park on April 19. AllIreland Hurling Champions Eoin Kelly, Brendan Cummins, Padraic Maher and Conor O’Mahony were on hand to showcase the new strip and discuss Tipperary hurler’s prospects of defending theirAll Ireland crowns as the 2011 championship season approaches. The full sponsorship of Tipperary GAA covers both the hurling and football codes and includes all grades from minor to senior inter-county teams over the next three years. As part of the sponsorship agreement, the new-lookTipperary jersey was unveiled displaying the Skoda brand name.
Pictured at the announcement is Ray Leddy, marketing manager of Skoda Ireland, centre, with Tipperary hurling manager Declan Ryan, left, and Tipperary football manager John Evans
MERCEDES BENZ IN TALKS ON FUEL CELLS: MERCEDES BENZ is involved in a partnership with Renault and Nissan to develop new fuel cell technology for cars for the future. This comes a year after both companies formed a global alliance in which both companies swapped stakes in each other to co-operate on the development of small cars, commercial vehicles and future engine systems.
FIAT WANTS A CROSS-OVER NOT A GOLF: FIAT hopes that reshaping the Bravo hatchback
into a crossover will lead to a surge in European sales. Fiat has decided to replace its slowselling Bravo compact hatchback with an all-new high-roof cross-over inspired by the popular Nissan Qashqai. Fiat had originally planned to relaunch the Bravo as a rival the Volkswagen Golf, which is Europe’s bestselling car. The current Bravo and Qashqai were both launched in Europe in 2007. Their sales results were close at first but last year the Qashqai outsold the Bravo by a 5-to-1 margin (216,091 to 44,850).
The new Volkswagen Beetle is built to be one of the safest cars on the road, thanks to features such as standard ESP and six airbags
New VW Beetle goes back to its roots VOL K S WAGE N unveiled the latest generation Beetle at the Shanghai Motor Show in a style that moves away from design of the New Beetle of 1998. This latest generation Beetle draws on cues from the original. This new Beetle, due here later this summer, is longer, wider and lower, giving a more masculine and dynamic appearance.
The Beetle now measures 4,278 mm in length (+152 mm), 1,808 mm in width (+84 mm) and 1,486 in height (-12 mm). The track width front and rear, as well as the wheelbase at 2,537 mm, is also increased. The car’s new proportions mean the roof extends back further, the windscreen is shifted back and the rear section is now more akin to that of the origi-
nal Beetle. The boot capacity is a practical 310 litres, up from 209 litres in the 1998 model. The Beetle has four seats, with a split-fold rear seat for added versatility. Inside the cabin, the Beetle’s designers created a modern, practical and distinctive appearance with easy to identify and ergonomic controls. Certain features, such
as the glove box and colour accent panels, hark back to the original. Three trim levels will be available – Beetle, Design and Sport – and each will have its own individual character and features. There will be a wide range of optional equipment available. It is expected that, in Ireland, there will be a choice of four engines: three petrol – a 1.2-litre TSI 105bhp,
a 1.4-litre TSI 160bhp and a 2.0-litre TSI 200bhp; and one diesel – a 1.6-litre 105bhp with BlueMotion Technology. Thanks to the addition of Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems, the Beetle 1.6-litre 105bhp is estimated to have a combined fuel consumption of 23.8 km/litre (4.2l/100km) and a low CO2 emissions rating of 112 g/km.
Porsche returns to southside of the city PORSCHE has long been one of the most prestigious brands in the world and Porsche Centre Dublin is delighted to announce its return to South County Dublin, introducing some exceptional cars that are exclusive to this centre in Ireland. Whether window-shopping or otherwise, you don’t even necessarily need to be a Porsche obsessive to appreciate the Porsche Boxster Spyder
PDK. This is the first and only car of its kind in the country, and now on display at Porsche Centre Dublin, Rochestown Avenue. This new Porsche Service Centre retails the full range of Porsche Approved used cars and provides customers in the Republic of Ireland with the only authorised facility that caters for all Porsche aftersales requirements. All Porsche-approved used
cars are inspected using a 111-point checklist and come with a 24-month, manufacturer-backed Porsche Approved Warranty, with no mileage limit, and a 24-month Porsche Assistance policy, offering Europe-wide breakdown assistance.
Experience Brand manager Ryan O’Connell, has a wealth of experience with the Porsche brand and
is one of the most experienced Porsche experts in Ireland having overseen an impressive 350 deliveries to Porsche customers across the country. Porsche Ser vice Centre Dublin is located at Joe Duffy Ltd, just off exit 16 of the M50 at Rochestown Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. Customers can contact the Porsche Centre Dublin on 01 2353375 or by email at info@ porschedublin.ie.
28 April 2011 GAZETTE 21
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS
Supported by AIB
Interview: Graham Costigan, general manager, Room To Room
Furnishing what customers want DUCA Furniture, trading as Room To Room, started business more than 10 years ago as a furniture wholesaler. Given the tough economic conditions prevailing in the country, the company decided to take their furniture directly to the public, with a benefit for the customer being the excellent value the company says it offers all year long. Talking to the Gazette this week, general manager Graham Costigan told us about his career and the company. “I was born what seems like an eternity ago in Dublin, I spent seven years living in Germany, and came back to Ireland 12 years ago. “Since leaving school (Joey’s in Fairview) I’ve run pubs, an accounts department and a freight company before joining Duca Furniture about a year ago. “I enjoy work, golf, travel, a couple of drinks now and then and relaxing with [partner] Karen, but not necessarily in that order!” Graham says. “Duca Furniture started business over 10 years ago as a furniture wholesaler. Based on the outskirts of Dundalk, we have a state-of-the-art 75,000 sq ft warehouse facility. Our showrooms in Santry, Fonthill and Leopardstown are decked out in the best of furniture. “We sell quality and pride ourselves on this. There are plenty of furniture retailers, but we feel we have some of the
ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS DECIDING ON PAYING PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS Q – My new employer will pay 5% into my defined contribution pension if I match it. I am only 26 – do I have to agree to this, or can I put it off until I am at least in my thirties? Mary – Stillorgan A - THERE are currently more than 420,000 Irish citizens over the age of 65 and, by the year 2050, there will be 1.8 million citizens over this age. By 2026, a total of 767,300 such citizens are expected, meaning that 16 years from now, more than 16% of the population will be in retirement. Another fact is that half of the current earning population of Ireland does not have a pension. They are obviously hoping that the State Pension (which is currently €230.30 per week) will be enough to tide them over at that stage, AND that the Government will still have
Graham Costigan, general manager at Room To Room
the funds to be able to pay it when they reach retirement age.
best furniture out there. And, as we’re a wholesaler by trade, the price is fair as there is no middle man. “We stock most of the floor items and have a wide range of customised furniture. Why not slip by if you’re in the market?” According to Graham, Room To Room don’t mark up prices to enable them to mark down in a fake sale. The company is keen to promote its core belief of providing the customer
with an excellent level of service and quality at a fair price. Room To Room carries stocks of leather, bedroom, dining and occasional furniture, with most of these items available for immediate delivery. Added to the its extensive range of custom-made fabric suites, the company believes it has something to suit every taste and every pocket. Customers can find all of the company’s details at www.roomtoroom.ie
With the pension funds being decimated over the last few years, and the ageing population ambivalent about saving for their retirement, something had to give. The Government, through the recent National Pension Framework plan, has addressed this issue and, by 2014, all employees and employers will eventually have to contribute to a pension fund of some sort, plus the retirement age will be raised gradually to age 68 in 2026, with one uniform standard rate of tax relief applied to all contributions – 20%, by 2014. So, if you are currently on the higher rate of tax, it will certainly be worth your while making that 5% contribution, as your employer is also making a 5% contribution. This is a win-win situation for you, while you are never
Q&A
too young to start a pension!
Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be? A: I wanted to be a foot-
Q: What part of your job do you dislike the most? A: Doing the accounts –
baller.
boring.
Q: What was your first job? A: I worked in Dunnes in the northside, stacking shelves and sweeping floors. Oh, how I miss those days ...
Q: And your first pay cheque? A: It was from the same place.
Q: How many people do you have to talk with every day? A: Loads. Sometimes too many, sometimes not enough.
Q: What is the best thing about your job? A: The greatest thrill is getting things organised and not having any problems with deliveries.
Q: What air carrier do you use when going on holidays? A: Generally Aer Lingus or Ryanair, whichever is best value.
Q: What car do you drive? A: I drive an old Audi. Q: Can you swim? A: I can, and try to, as much as possible.
Q: Would you ever bungee jump? A: Nope; I don’t like heights.
Q: Do you play any sport? A: I play golf. Q: What is your favourite food and drink? A: My favourite food is stew;
my favourite drink is coffee.
Q: Who would you like to have dinner with – Brian O’Driscoll or Brian Cowen? A: Brian Cowen. I’d love to give him a slap up the side of the head.
Q: How many times a week do you go to the ‘hole in the wall’? A: Way too often. Q: How many times each year do you shop for clothes? A: As seldom as possible. I don’t like shopping.
Q: What is the name of your favourite shop? A: Room to Room, of course! But, really, it’s Macy’s in New York.
Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own? A: About 15, I think.
Q: Where is your favourite holiday destination? A: Portugal. Q: Have you ever met Brian Cowen? A: Nope. Q: What other job in the whole world would you really like to have? A: A professional golfer; otherwise, I’m very happy with my work.
Q: When do you wish to retire? A: As soon as I have the means to do so, comfortably.
Q: What will you do then? A: I haven’t got a clue. I will read books and take it easy for a while, and just spend some time smelling the flowers – I don’t get a chance now.
Even at 20% tax relief, the full 10% contribution (5% from you and 5% from the employer) is only costing you a net 4% of your income. Ask for a report each year from the trustees to ensure the fund is on course to pay you what the original estimates hope to. Quite simply put, a pension is a must. It is a savings plan which attracts three specific tax breaks. Firstly, tax relief on the contribution that you make to your pension at your marginal rate –in 2014, it reduces to 20%. Secondly, tax-free growth in the pension fund. And, thirdly, the availability of a tax-free lump sum, currently 25% of the fund, on retirement age, with a cap of €200,000. Independent, authorised and experienced advice is essential, and it would be preferable to pay for it, to ensure that independence. Do it! Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@ moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor
22 GAZETTE 28 April 2011
GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY CLONEE: RANGE OF APARTMENTS NOW ON SALE NEAR BLANCH
Ard Cluain hits the market
Allendale Glade offers three-bed living in D15
CLONSILLA: ASKING PRICE OF €204,950
Allendale is cosy in Clonsilla WILSON Moore have made a final reduction to encourage an immediate sale on No. 4, Allendale Glade, Clonsilla, Dublin 15, a stunning three-bedroom mid-terrace home in immaculate condition throughout and very well maintained by its present owners. The accommodation consists of entrance hallway, living room, kitchen/dining area, guest wc /utility room, three-bedrooms (of which the master is en-suite) and a family bathroom. To the rear is a good size garden with seeded lawn and conservatory. Special features include a feature fireplace and coving in the living room with double doors leading to the dining area, cream-fitted kitchen with tiled splash-back and doors leading to a large conservatory; Egyptian Travertine flooring in the conservatory and semi-solid wood flooring throughout the ground floor. There are fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms, and the attic is fully floored with Stira stairs. The property features a south-facing rear garden with outdoor tap and outdoor electricity sockets and is wired for outdoor lighting; gas heating, PVC windows and new PVC guttering and fascias, an alarm system and offstreet parking. This property is conveniently close to the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre with all its amenities – schools, shops, N3 and M50 motorway, Clonsilla Train Station and, well serviced with an excellent bus route to the city centre. Viewings are by appointment only and can be arranged via Wilson Moore on 1890 808080.
THE ARD Cluain apartment complex in Clonee is now available for viewing by appointment through Wilson Moore Estate and Letting Agents. The apartments feature professional, landscaped open areas and courtyard; high-speed lifts serve all floors from ground floor car parks, and there is an intercom entry system. There is a a good electric specification, including each apartment has at least two telephone and TV points and an ample number of double sockets throughout. Smoke and heat detectors are fitted in each apartment and all units are wired for security alarms and downlighters in living room and
Ard Cluain apartments are on sale now
kitchen. The bedrooms have high-quality fitted wardrobes, and the majority of the two-bedroom apartments will have en-suites off the main bedroom. Bathrooms feature high-quality, white sani-
tary ware, as well as floor and wall tiles to dado rail height throughout all the bathrooms and en-suites as per show apartments. Chrome towel rail, toilet roll holder and large fitted vanity mirrors, as per the show apartments,
and thermostatically controlled high-pressure showers. All apartments are covered by a ten-year Homebond scheme. This apartment development is situated just off the N3, within easy access of the M50 motorway, with Dublin city centre only a short distance away. The selection of amenities within walking distance include various restaurants, pubs and a wide choice of shops. A variety of sporting facilities are available in the vicinity, including the conveniently situated Clonee Tennis club right next door. There is a choice of local golf courses as well as horse-riding facilities
close by and numerous sport clubs. The Blanchardstown Shopping Centre, with its own multiplex cinema and extensive range of retail outlets, is only a short drive away. This impressive development has two attractive courtyards with designer-landscaped open spaces. Ard Cluain is a onestop-shop and offers first-time buyers and investors an opportunity to secure both real value and top-class quality in one simple step. Viewings are by appointment and can be arranged via Wilson Moore on 1890 808080.
RATHMORE, MEATH: FIVE-BEDROOM LUXURY HOME FOR €595,000
A designer home at a price to dream on CARTY Properties have brought Carraig Rua, Rathmore, in Co Meath, to the market once again with a significant reduction to the price, making what is already an elegant spacious home even more attractive to potential buyers. Carraig Rua, on the market for an asking proce of €595,000, is a detached, dormer-style residence standing on approximately 0.6 acre of landscaped grounds w i t h a n i m p r e s s i ve entrance. The property itself is nestled in scenic surroundings. This designer home extends to c 3,200 sq ft and offers generous proportions, an abundance of natural light with attention to quality and detail. The kitchen, living and dining rooms are interconnected and all
have French doors leading onto patio areas. The property comprises entrance hall with a double hardwood front door with leaded glass panels, recessed lighting and porcelain-tiled flooring, a lounge with a nine-foot ceiling, a raised feature fireplace with granite hearth, a large, bow-style window, and solid oak timber flooring. T he dining/family room has a mahogany fireplace, large bowstyle window and steps down to the kitchen/ living room, which features built-in wall and floor cherry units, complete with stainless steel sink, pull-out larder, built-in double oven, electric hob, integrated dishwasher and fridge freezer, with a large centre island. There is also a utility
Carraig Rua in Rathmore, Co Meath is on the market for €595,000
room and shower room. There are five wellproportioned bedrooms, the main being en suite, with a mixture of carpeted and wooden floors, and built-in wardrobes. The family bathroom has a jacuzzi bath, with velux window and recessed lighting. The location is second
to none as it is within walking distance of Rathmore church and school while Athboy, Kells and Navan towns are only minutes away with their wide choice of educational, leisure and shopping amenities. The property is less than 10 minutes to the new M3 access point. This pro-
vides an easy commute to Dublin making this an ideal home for families looking for a serene, idyllic country location while offering a wealth of amenities close at hand. For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Carty on 046-9486860, or see www.carty.ie.
28 April 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 23
GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel
The impressive cliffs of Moher are only one of the many attractions in Co Clare
HOLIDAYS AT HOME: A VAST OFFERING IN ENNIS BEYOND THE BURREN
Much Moher than just cliffs in Ennis BARRY HARTIGAN
T’S only when you get to see the Cliffs of Moher for yourself do you truly realise how breathtaking they really are. The famous tourist attraction has featured in a number of films, including The Princess Bride, and has even made an appearance on the small screen in an episode of Father Ted, but you really should try to see them for yourself. The cliffs are in the final 28 of the New Seven Wonders of Nature competition and, once you view them, it’s not hard to see why. The reason for my trip to Co Clare was an invitation from the Old Ground Hotel in Ennis to visit the hotel on the 50th anniversary of its opening and to sample the delights of the town and surrounding county. Ennis is the very definition of the term “picture postcard” and it’s not
I
hard to see why it won the Tidy Towns competition in 2005 and placing second in 2008. It’s very picturesque, with narrow winding streets and it still maintains the feel of the market town it once was. There is still a market in operation each Saturday, albeit somewhat reduced in size, and there was quite a range of stalls on offer the weekend I visited. Saturday morning was spent on a walking tour of Ennis, and a very pleasant spot it is to amble around. The centre, made up of medieval streets and laneways, give it a small town feel. However, Ennis actually has a population of around 25,000 making it the largest town in Munster and the sixth largest town in Ireland. I found several fine book stores to browse in while the women on the trip were more than happy with the number of shoe and clothing stores that Ennis has to offer. The Old Ground Hotel
itself dates back to the early part of the 18th Century when it was built as a private dwelling and, in 1895, it was transformed into a hotel. It has had a very chequered past and Sinn Fein used the premises as their campaign headquaters from 1917 onwards. One of the more interesting parts of its history is the fact that, in 1936, famed pilot Charles Lindberg stayed at the hotel while scouting for locations to open a transatlantic gateway. Today the hotel has a wonderful combination of both old and new and, while the public areas have a pleasant ‘olde world’ feel, it also boasts all mod cons. The hotel’s Town Hall restaurant is clearly one of the most popular in Ennis as it was packed the night we dined there. Without going into elaborate details about the food all I will say was that I enjoyed one of the finer meals there that I have eaten in recent years.
I f y o u f a n c y g e tting some exercise and fresh air this spring the hotel is offering walking weekend breaks around the Burren. The Saturday consists of a full day guided walk from Black Head to the Burren Coast taking in stunning vistas of Galway Bay, Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands and the majestic, rocky Burren itself. Sunday is a gentle halfday walk in the Burren National Park, one of the last great uncontaminated landscapes in Ireland, and includes the ascent of one of the country’s most eccentrically shaped hills, Mullaghmore, as well as interestesting sights off a famine relief ef road, herds of feral goats,, and the seasonal Tu r l o u g h lake. The weekends also coincide de with the world-famous orld-famous wildflower season in
the Burren so there will be beautiful blooms all around. There are three walking weekends to choose from, taking place on April 29, May 6 or May 13. The two-night break, including two nights luxurious accommodation with full Irish breakfast both mornings, a fivecourse dinner on the evening of your choice, a packed lunch and the guided walks (including transfers) is just €195 per person sharing, subject to availability. For further information check http://www. flynnhotels.com/Old_ Ground_Hotel_Ennis/ Welcome .
A killer of a night out in Louth at murder weekend in Darver Castle DARVER Castle, Ardee, Co Louth, is hosting A Knight of Murder by Murder Mysteries Ireland on Saturday, May 7. This entertaining medieval murder dinner show starts with budding detectives being greeted by the show’s shady cast at the welcome reception. Keeping their eyes peeled for clues, guests will then enjoy a sumptuous four-course dinner with wine as a murder is played out in the castle’s banqueting hall. After the killer is caught everyone can dance the evening away and enjoy the late bar. Tickets for A Knight of Murder are €65 per person, there is a group booking discount available for bookings of 10 seats and over. Fancy dress is not essential but preferred to help you get into the spirit of things. Sleuths can also stay in the Castle’s guesthouses for €100 for two sharing, including breakfast. Contact info@darvercastle.ie for more details, and, to book your medieval murder mystery dinner show tickets, please call 085 2828 420 or book online at www.murdermystreriesireland.com.
US and Canadian tourism agents see Ireland’s offering first-hand OVER 30 top American and Canadian travel agents arrived in Galway last week to meet with representatives of the Irish tourism trade to discuss business opportunities for the season ahead and looking beyond into 2012. The agents represent high-end travel groups from across North America and Canada and have delivered significant amounts of business to Ireland over recent years. Speaking after the event, Gillian Binchy, trade marketing manager at Fáilte Ireland said: “Events like these provide wonderful opportunities for overseas agents to come and taste the culture and heritage of Ireland for themselves, and has such a key role in encouraging these agents to consider Ireland as a holiday destination and promote Ireland to their customers.” The workshop, which took place at the Ardilaun Hotel, provided valuable business and networking opportunities for the Irish trade at a fraction of the cost of an individual sales trip.
24 SWORDS GAZETTE 28 April 2011
GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1
GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Little Gem Love, sex, birth, death, dildos and salsa classes: Little Gem sees three generations of Dublin women on a wild and constantly surprising journey. April 29 and 30 at 8pm. Tickets: €15.20/€16.80/€19/€21.
The Pride of Parnell Street In a series of intercutting monologues, Janet and Joe chart the intimacies of their love and the rupturing of their relationship, as well as their enduring love affair with Dublin city itself. This is an intimate, heroic tale of ordinary and extraordinary life on the streets of Dublin. May 3 to 7. Tickets from €15 to €23.
SEAMUS ENNIS CULTURAL CENTRE 01 802 0898 T with the Maggies Triona, Maighread, Mairéad and Moya, T with the Maggies, all come from the same corner of County Donegal and all have illustrious career histories. Each individual brings a unique and varied interpretation of their musical heritage. April 29. Commences at 8:30pm. Admission: €25.
Ger Wolfe In the company of a new line-up of top-class players Edel Sullivan (violin), Paul Frost (double bass) and Richard Lucey (button accordion), the man who brought us The Curra Road will take us on an unforgettable musical adventure from older gems such as The Lark of Mayfield and No Bird Sang, to exciting new songs inspired by his time as writer in residence listening to the stories of the older members of the Muscrai Gaeltacht in Cork. April 30 at 8:30pm. Admission: €16.
THE HELIX 01 700 7000 The Not So Grimm Fairytales All your favourite Grimm characters... Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, Tom Thumb, a handful of princesses, a whirlwind of witches and one weally, weally wicked wolf... are all brought to life in this energetic, colourful, laugh-aminute show, with music, surprises, a touch of magic and lots of fun for all the family. April 30 and May 1. Tickets: €12.50.
MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 The Pajama Game The story deals with labour troubles in a pyjama factory, where worker demands for a seven-and-a-half cents raise are going unheeded. In the midst of this ordeal, love blossoms between Babe, the grievance committee head, and Sid, the new factory superintendent. May 3 to 7. Admission: €18/€15
DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Hot Mikado This hilarious musical comedy is a 1940’s style update of Gilbert and Sullivan’s, The Mikado, and features highenergy dance routines with great vocal arrangements of blues, swing, hot gospel and scorching torch songs. April 28 to 30 at 8pm. Tickets €21.
CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Vladimir and Classical Twist Vladimir’s main musical focus at the moment is his small ensemble, Classical Twist, (two violins, viola, double bass, piano and drums) and their wonderful fusion of classical music, jazz, pop & rock. From Bach to Bowie and from Mozart to the Rolling Stones via Lynard Skynyrd, Classical Twist puts a fresh, contemporary spin on some of the greatest melodies ever written. Classical Twist’s inventive and dazzling musicianship and rhythmic arrangements are delivered with verve in an accessible and approachable style. May 5 at 8pm. Admission: €18 and €16 concession.
Fred (James Marsden) finds himself looking out for EB (Russell Brand); the runaway son of the Easter Bunny who’d rather be a drummer in LA than take over his father’s job of running Easter each year. But Easter Island needs EB to come home, quick – or a coup d’egg-tat could occur ...
A bunny awful film ... Another week, and another sub-standard CG film leaves Kate hopping mad, thinking ‘Up’ never seemed so far away Q KATE CROWLEY
WELL folks, as the month of April prepares to dash out the door, quickly grabbing its coat and chucking a Gone Fishin’ sign in the window, it’s fair to say that the film industry has done pretty much the same thing. Oh, sure, there are plenty of films trundling along towards Dublin’s screens, but not many of them are much cop, as April/May is traditionally the annual time for Gone Fishin’ fever to hit Hollywood’s head honchos, who start to hold back their bigger, “better” films until the summer season. Why, just consider some of these films – “The Joy of Wicker”, “Go, Donkey, Go!”, “Escape from Luton”,“Charlie and the Lost Slinky”, “Grandma’s Got A Gramaphone”, “My Favourite Cheese” and “Too Many Bow Ties”. I just made ’em all up, but they still sound like
FILM OF THE WEEK: Hop ++ (G) 94 mins Director: Tim Hill Starring: Kaley Cuoco, James Marsden, Russell Brand, Hugh Laurie, David “The Hoff” Hasslefhoff
OUR VERDICT: DIRECTOR Tim Hill was responsible for “Alvin And The Chipmunks” – four words designed to strike fear/rage into the soul of parents everywhere. And it shows, as Hop takes more-or-less the same formula of “adorable” cute CG animals having “zany” adventures with “goofy” adults to “hilarious” effect. The film is likely to feel like all stick, and no carrot, for viewers wishing to hop away ...
oddly plausible titles, compared to some of the Easter offerings rolling around out there. Still, one such deliberate (and very real) Easter-related film is Hop; a family-friendly film that’s been on release for a couple of weeks now, yet which I thought would be better served by reviewing now. After all, who isn’t filled with the joys of just-passed Easter at the moment? Which, in Hollywood’s eyes, is nothing to do with anything vaguely religionconnected, but is all about cute ickle wabbits and
CG-enhanced romps, of course. Well, duh. And duh-at’s eggs-actly what Hop’s directors are keen for you to swallow, along with your gulps of chocolate, this Easter season. The Easter Bunny (Hugh Laurie) has spent his life preparing his son, EB (Russell Brand) to step into his shoes, and carry on the family business of bringing the joy of Christm– err, Easter to the world, with lovely Easter baskets made at their busy Easter Island factory (where else). However, once EB has all growed up a little
bit, the appeal of being the Easter Bunny versus, say, a rock drummer, has peeled away like the thin wrapping around an Easter egg, and he runs away from Easter Island to Los Angeles (again, where else), where a talking, drum-playing rabbit isn’t going to raise many eyebrows. It isn’t long before EB crosses paths with Fred (James Marsden), who’s a bit of a shmuck, and yet is soon an unwilling minder of sorts for the wascally wabbit, who knows very well that dad has dispatched an elite ninja rabbit squad to find his son, and drag him back home. Of course, if EB doesn’t come home, someone else will have to step into making sure that Easter runs smoothly, and a long-suffering Easter Chick, Carlos (Hank Azaria) may finally have the chance to take over running Easter. Actually, by this point it all starts to get a little
convoluted, as the likes of Hugh Hefner, David “The Hoff” Hasslehoff and Brand, in a live-action cameo, start adding to the mix. They, and the Easter Bunny, rabbit ninjas, cunning chicks and a coup d’egg-tat all combine to create what’s probably supposed to be a sweetly charming film, yet is, perhaps, more than many viewers can stomach. Sure, the animation is pretty nice, but the story is flat, flat, flatter’n tin foil, and Marsden’s mugging, coupled with a film that’s even less convincing of being anything to do with the meaning of Easter than the sight of a certain stunning cinema reviewer wearing rabbit ears, all combine to create a colourful mess. Hop could be a perfect punishment to pack off older children to see, with younger siblings in tow, but otherwise, it’s more or less a bunny awful film.
28 April 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 25
Household fee instead of TV licence ADAM MAGUIRE
IN THE past, anyone who wanted to watch RTE One needed a television set and some kind of signal coming into the house, either via aerial, cable or satellite. Today, all you need is a computer – or phone – and a half-decent internet connection. This massive shift is causing a lot of problems for a lot of people, not least programme makers, who are finding it harder to sell adverts and bring in big audiences. The effect of the trend is also being felt by the Irish Government, which is now trying to understand how it will impact on the TV licence fee. If a household has a device capable of receiving television signals, the
though it does not require a licence to do so.
residents are obliged to pay the annual licence fee of €160. This is the case even if they do not use the television, or watch public service broadcaster channels such as RTE on it.
How new technology gets around this As the definition of a “television” requires the device to pick up signals via an aerial, most types of computer and phone are excluded. They can allow a user to watch TV in other ways – generally, over an internet connection – even
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Doomsday scenario At the moment, only a tiny minority of users have completely replaced their TVs for computer screens. However, it is a growing number. If left ignored, there is a very real possibility that the amount of money being taken in via the licence fee will eventually become dangerously low, even though the number of television watchers has not dropped at all. The solution ... ? No decision has been made as to how this problem is to be solved, but the Government has suggested the introduction of a household charge instead of the licence fee, which will see every
house pay an annual rate, no matter what devices they do or do not own
The argument for This system would make the process cheaper for the Government, as there will be no need to have inspectors trying to prove a person has a TV set but no licence. The argument against Some people do not have televisions, and this will unfairly force them to pay for something they get no benefit from. When a decision will be made A review is currently under way to try to find a workable solution, and full recommendations are expected within the next few months.
HTC Desire S As the latest in a growing range of HTC’s “Desire” phones, the Desire S takes the best of its predecessor and makes t h e m even better. With t h e original Desire being a really great phone, t h i s follow-up has a lot to live up to, but promises much in its specifications. With a lighter, slimmer but stronger body, the phone looks and
feels great, while its 3.7inch screen is stunningly bright to look at. It runs on Android, and is layered in HTC’s o w n “Sense” interf a c e , which is really easy to use and gives a user loads of information in a small space. All of the features you would expect are there, and they are done extremely well – the phone also feels great to use, and its touchscreen is responsive and quick.
If there is a downside to the device, it would have to be its battery, which can struggle to last as long as you would like. This can be put down to that super-bright screen, for a start, not to mention all the other bells and whistles stored within. However, the battery is not so bad as to ruin the phone, and HTC have again come up trumps, showing they are the masters of Android. The Desire S is a powerful competitor to anything its rivals have to offer. The HTC Desire S is available on O2 and Meteor from €39.99. Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.
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26 SWORDS GAZETTE 28 April 2011
28 April 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 27
GazetteSPORT
SPORT AWARDS:
GazetteSport’s April nominees are announced: Page 29
HOCKEY: LOCAL PLAYER SET TO TAKE PART IN EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP
Gormley gets real as Madrid side get ready STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com
CLONSKEA man Ronan Gormley will become one of a rare breed next month when the Irish men’s hockey captain will contest the semi-finals of the EuroHockey League – the sport’s equivalent to the Champion’s League. Gormley switched from Dublin-side Pembroke Wanderers last summer to play on a semi-professional basis in Madrid
with Club de Campo. And last weekend they won both their last 16 and quarter-finals ties in the competition at the EHL’s KO16 stages in Amsterdam. Ironically, he ended up facing his former club last Friday and swept to an 11-0 victory against the Dubliners, who had lost several Irish internationals to European clubs in the close season, as well as enduring injuries to Scottish star Paddy Conlon
and former Irish striker Gordon Elliott. For Gormley, it was bittersweet. “It was tough playing against my old side. I played for them for 13 or 14 years but you come out to win. We’ve got objectives in the tournament and you have to think of it as another team. “They’ve had a very tough year with the players that have left the club, eight or nine of the starting eleven, and a coach,
Ronan Gormley will be representing Club De Campo when they take their place in last four of the EHL
so they’ve done very well to push an Irish team into the last 16, so fair play to them “We aimed to start well, we didn’t quite achieve that and I think they won the first short corner but, once we got into our game,
we played some good hockey, put good moves together and played some three-touch stuff at a high tempo and managed to stick some goals in.” That victory set up a quarter-final tie with Spanish rivals, Atletic Ter-
rassa, on Easter Sunday. A cagey affair, normal time ended 1-1, as did extratime leading to a penalty shoot-out, which was won 2-0. It sets up a semi-final date in June with English club, Reading, who
feature Irish player Chris Cargo and is a challenge Gormley cannot wait to meet: “Every match now is do-or-die, there’s top teams involved so it will be tight margins. We’ll fight for every ball and see where it takes us.”
28 SWORDS GAZETTE 28 April 2011
GazetteSport Sport Rugby
FastRugby
SWORDS RFC: VICTORY AT MALAHIDE SEES CLUB ELEVATED
Locals play huge role as Ireland claim title BLACKROCK College’s Conor McEllin, Gavin Thornbury and Mark Roche helped Ireland’s schools team to European glory last weekend when they got the better of England in the FIRA AER international tournament in France. Indeed, McEllin got the boys in green on top early on in Saturday’s final in Tarbes, when he crossed for a 26th-minute try. Talismanic captain Luke McGrath was hugely influential again, distributing well and keeping the English defence on its toes. He kicked two early penalties, settling early nerves and the Irish were 11-3 ahead at half-time. England’s heavier pack had an advantage in the scrum but Ireland were sharper in most other facets of the game. Their decisionmaking, composure in possession and ability to take the right option time and again helped them maintain their lead in muggy conditions at Stade Maurice Trelut. McGrath struck two more penalties to stretch the margin to 14 points and, although English prop Alec Hepburn got over for a late unconverted try, nothing could take the gloss off what was an accomplished display from these young Irish players. The victory avenged a 29-12 qualifier loss to England at Donnybrook back in December, and saw Terry McMaster’s charges follow up on their terrific semi-final win over tournament hosts, France. It was Ireland’s fourth time to reach the final (they lost to France in 2007, 2008 and last year), but this was the first year that the Schools’ team competed in the championships instead of the club’s fifteen.
Swords celebrate at Estuary Road after defeating Railway Union in the Division 2B play-off last week
Swords claim promotion LEINSTER LEAGUE Swords RFC Railway Union
24 3
sport@gazettegroup.com
S WOR D S ’ f i r s t X V played Railway Union last week at Malahide RFC’s ground, with an eye on the ultimate prize for the season, a place in the Leinster League Division 2B for the victors, and the losers playing in the third division. Both teams started this promotion/relegation play-off with all of the intensity you would expect from two sides well aware of the importance of the match to their respective clubs, and that importance showed as well on the sideline, with a massive crowd cheering their
teams on. From the kick-off, both sides looked wellmatched, with neither giving an inch. It took 20 minutes before the scoreboard turned over, when Railway opened the scoring with a deftly-kicked penalty to bring the scores to 3-0. Swords finally opened their account 10 minutes later with a wellworked backs’ move, which saw scrum-half Gary Hynes cross the line in the corner. However, the conversion drifted to the left of the posts and the scores remained 3-5 going into the break.
Second half In the second half, Swords kept up the
p r e s s u r e t h e y we r e bringing to bear on Railway Union up, and five minutes in, Max Sorenson crossed the whitewash to touch down under the posts, a score that he easily converted. Railway Union fought back, and pushed Swords back into their half for the next few minutes, but the Swords backs countered and, af ter some fantastic handling skills, Sorenson once again crossed the line. T his time, however, he was unable to convert and add the extras to put Swords further out in front. S wo r d s ke p t t h e intensity up and were rewarded with a scrum just inside Railway’s 22.
Number 8 Larry Faifua picked from the back of the scrum, ran to the right of the mass of bodies, only to be stopped just short of the try line. From the ensuing ruck, Hynes hit number 7 Shane Walsh’s pass at pace, and he dived for the line to touch down, capping what was a man-of-the-match per formance with a deserved score. Sorenson’s successful conversion was to be the last score of the game, although Railway Union upped their game for the remaining 15 minutes. Swords found themselves camped in their own half but, despite some desperate attacking moves, Railway
could not penetrate the Swords’ defence. Swords took possession with two minutes to go, and proceeded to run down the clock. The game finished when replacement scrum half Fran McKevitt kicked the ball to touch, to see Swords as the winners, to the delight of clubmates and supporters alike, who will be looking forward to competing in next season’s Leinster League Division 2B. The match saw what has been a gruelling season come to an end, and the challenge of next year’s competition will, hopefully, inspire Swords to seek another promotion play-off place in the seasons to come.
28 April 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 29
in association with
FastSport
ASDFASDF: SASDF ASDFASD FDSAF SDA
2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - APRIL NOMINEES IN ASSOCIATION WITH
+ STARof the
2011 Matchplay entry now available to golfers
MONTH
ENTRIES for the 2011/2012 City Matchplay Championship, played throughout winXxx yyll xxyyl zxyxzz zz x xxylyx. Xxx yyllthe xxyyl zxyxzz at Castle Golf Club, are now available. zzter x xxylyx. Picture: Xxxxx Zzzzzz
PETER CARR
JAMES CLUSKEY
DAVID MALONE
CARR has been in stellar form for both Swords RFC and for the Dublin Eagles rugby league side at local level, and has represented Ireland in league colours at several levels, being picked for RLI’s Four Nations campaign in Scotland this month
SWORDS tennis star Cluskey has been on a roll this month, his outstanding performances on the ITF Futures tour netting doubles victories in Liechtenstein and Switzerland with playing partner, Frenchman, Fabrice Martin
PARALYMPIC pool legend Malone received another Olympic accolade to add to his medal haul this month when he was named as the team manager for Ireland’s swimmers for their London 2012 Paralympic Games campaign.
+ TEAMof the
The Mens’ Championship is open to men with a handicap of 18-or-under, and the Ladies’ Championship to ladies with a handicap of 28-or-under. Entry costs just €55 to cover competition fees and green fees for the entire tournament. The first round will be played in August through the following months to a final in April. Entry can be made by sending the entrance fee, name, address, mobile phone number, e-mail address, club and handicap to Castle Golf Club, or via e-mail at info@ castlegc.ie. For more information, contact Castle Golf Club on 4904207
asdf asdf sa dfdsasd fdas fdasf dasdfd Softball Ireland call for new recruits
MONTH
COLAISTE IOSAGAIN
CLONDALKIN RFC
DUBLIN LIONS
COLAISTE Iosagain’s young footballers claimed the first All-Ireland title for a Dublin school at this level when they defeated Holy Rosary College of Galway to be crowned the Senior B Second Level Colleges champions in Roscommon
CLONDALKIN ladies’ rugby team made history when they defeated a tough Edenderry outfit to claim the club’s first ever womens’ trophy at the home of nearby rivals, Barnhall, in the Leinster championship
DUBLIN Lions’ basketball club made club history this month when all three of their senior mens’ teams became champions in the Men’s Top 4s competition at the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght
WELCOME to the 2011 Dublin Sports Awards, as we mark our local sportsmen and women’s April sporting achievements across the capital and, indeed, across the nation. With spring’s awakenings making way for summer sun, we’re delighted to once again
be able to celebrate the finest achievements in Dublin sport, with some huge efforts at local levels coming to our attention in a variety of wellknown, and some less prominent sports. Ever y form of sporting achievement, at any level and in any sport, is valuable and
gives an impression of the diversity of sporting commitment there is around our fair city at all times of the year. 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 in the month of May, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/gazettesport. You can also check out the latest stories from GazetteSport at our new website, www.gazettegroup.com
for the sport, and they are keen to recruit new players to this burgeoning, inclusive sport. Softball is a unique and social sport for players of all ages, genders and abilities. It caters for every level and standard of player from those wanting a recreational knockaround to those wishing to compete at the highest level of international competition. There are some 30 teams playing across Dublin at present, and for those who are interested in finding out more information about the sport, and about joining a club in their local areas, can do so at Softball Ireland’s website, http:// www.softball.ie
300 wds
THE softball season for 2011 commenced recently with an allday start-of-season blitz held at ALSAA Sports Grounds. All money raised on the day was to assist the National Squad in their fundraising for attending the European Championships later this year. For anyone interested in playing softball, teams are looking for new recruits at any time. Please check out www.softball.ie for information. Softball Ireland is the national governing body
30 SWORDS GAZETTE 28 April 2011
GazetteSport Sport FastSport Dutch delight for Swords U-11s in European trip SWORDS Celtic’s Under-11B team travelled to Holland last weekend to take part in the Easter Cup. The team competed in the Under-12 and 13 section, and were unbeaten against all other Under-12 teams, but found the Under13 a more difficult challenge. The team must now, however, put the trip behind them and concentrate on the final few weeks of their league. They are currently sitting in second place, four points behind Baldoyle, but they have four games fewer played than the leaders. With five games left to play, the team, who remain unbeaten all season, must be confident of picking up the required points to top the table and win promotion to next season’s A division.
Swords claim derby win over Rivervalley DERBY bragging rights fell to Swords Celtic as they got the better of Rivervalley Rangers Under-18 Premiers to take their place in the final of the Under-17/18 Carlton Cup. Just one goal divided the sides in a clash that saw schoolmates from both sides of the valley come together at Balheary for the first of two cup semi-finals for the Celtic 17s. The game was tense with lots of missed chances on both sides, a number of Celtic players taken off injured and a missed penalty which could have sown up the result midway through the second half. However, it was
the single goal from Ronan White which decided the game and put the team into their first cup final of the season.
Thompson set for Japan test LOCAL racing driver Gary Thompson is set to start his 2011 season from the front of the grid when he lines out for the SGC by KCMG team at Suzuka on May 14 in the Japanese F3 National Class. The 18-year-old, who will continue to receive backing from Aviation Display and Cebu Pacific, as well as Bam Motorsport and team sponsor SGC, finished fifth in his rookie year in 2010, having graduated to the single-seater series from Formula BMW Pacific, where he was runner-up in 2009.
All stars at DIT: Egan presents Sports Awards EMMA Bailey from Castleknock was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Sport at DIT award from Kenneth Egan recently when the college celebrated their 14th Annual Sports Awards, which took place in the Aviva Stadium. Each year DIT recognises the outstanding contribution of individual student athletes across many diverse sporting disciplines for their achievements in sport and contribution of the sports clubs to campus life.
DANONE NATIONS CUP: UNITED MISS OUT ON SPOT TO KNOCKLYON
Malahide United’s Under-11 side were denied a place in the national finals of the Danone Nations Cup last week
Malahide denied place DANONE NATIONS CUP Malahide United Knocklyon United
0 2
Q STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com
MALAHIDE United reached the DDSL playoff stages of the U-11 Danone Nations Cup, but just missed out on the chance to represent the league in the national finals later this year when Knocklyon United got the breaks last Wednesday evening. In the nine-a-side competition, initially played in a blitz format three days earlier, the Gannon Park club advanced to the play-offs in some style,
played at Crumlin United’s Pearse Park home. The play-off game, though, was an unlucky affair, United playing some great stuff in midfield, but unable to find the final touches. Goalkeeper Daniel Brennan did well to parry an early Knocklyon volley, but he was unable to stop Darragh Jones pot-shot in the seventh minute. Charles Ethammu dinged the bar with the other major chance of the half, before Malahide stormed back into contention in the second period. Thomas Byrne’s rightwing machinations
were creating plenty of chances, one of which came sharply to Peter Kioso who hit his shot just over. But, again, they were stung on the break when a nice move saw Knocklyon’s Joey O’Sullivan pull the ball into the centre and Luke Devlin completed the move for 2-0. Sean Ryan drew a fine save from the impressive Ethan Farrell between the Knocklyon posts while K ioso slipped just wide from another Byrne pass. The win put Knocklyon through to the final round of playoffs where they were undone
b y B e l ve d e r e w h i l e Mountview United’s U-11s took the other place in the National Finals. They edged a cracker on the adjacent pitch following their 3-2 victory over Cabinteely. It was a superb performance from the Blanch side, with midf i e l d m a e s t r o M i ke Mzingo pulling the strings from midfield as they held the lead three times but were twice pegged back. Mzingo broke the deadlock inside a minute when he stole the ball in the centre of the park, drifted to the right of goal before
calmly slotting in low for a great start to the tie. Cabo’s Alan Cusack levelled before Mzingo restored the lead with a screaming half-volley in the second half. Jim Kennedy levelled for a second time but Alex Carr made it 3-2 almost instantly when he delicately nudged home from close range from Mzingo’s header through. Malahide United: Daniel Brennan, Mikey Dowling, Jack Whelan, Aaron Molloy, Tom McCarthy, Sam Ennis, Thoms Byrne, Sean Ryan, Jason Condon, Peter Kioso, Josh Scully, Conor Farrelly, Dion Agzombe.
28 April 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 31
in association with
FOOTBALL: FINS’ MINOR LEAPFROG ST FINIAN’S
CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS CONGRATULATIONS to Padraig Dur-
team are in this division, with Vincent’s
kan and his team that helped out and
B, Scoil ui Chonaill and Clontarf B on
attended a most successful and sunny
the weekend of April 30. Our A team
Easter Camp last week. There were
will be playing away in St Mark’s: The
nearly 300 kids in attendance, making
big travelling support last year played
it our most successful camp to date.
a part in the club winning the Feile, so
Plans are now in place for the Summer
please show your support again this
Camp.
year.
Our minor footballers had an
Fingallians’ Golf Classic in aid of
impressive league victory over St Fin-
ladies’ and gents’ adult section, Fri-
ian’s, 2-10 to 1-9 to move to the top of
day, May 6 at Donabate Golf Club. Team
the table.
of four - €200 (€180 prepay, 14 days in
Championship Week: Senior Football
advance). Early bird: 6.30 to 10.30am -
Championship, Saturday, April 30: Fin-
€180 (€160 prepay, 14 days in advance)
gallians v St Maurs in The Naul at 4pm.
Sponsor a hole: €50. Tees available
Intermediate Football Championship
from 6.30am to 4pm and includes din-
- Friday, April 29: Fingallians v Skerries
ner in Donabate GC clubhouse There is also an opportunity to win
Harps in The Naul at 7pm. The club will this year be hosting the Div 7 of the football Feile. Our U-14B
Fingallians minors took top spot in Division 4 with their win over St Finian’s
Local derby sees sides trade places MFL DIVISION 4 Fingallians 2-10 St Finian’s 1-9 JONNY STAPLETON sport@gazettegroup.com
FINGALLIANS stole MFL Division Four pole position, overtaking their nearest rivals, St Finian’s, both in the table and on the map, after an entertaining and significant derby victory late last week. Goals from Darren Green and Paul Kelly proved the difference as Fingallians won the clash of the two big Swords outfits. Finian’s started and finished the game stronger, but their positive opening and strong final few minutes sandwiched a solid home display by Fingallians who did enough in between to win the top-of-the-table derby clash. The Saints were fast out of the blocks and within 10 mins had a strong 1-02 to 0-01 point lead.
Jack Murphy applied a beautiful finish to what was a well-worked move as the visitors, who have all but two players in their first year of minor football, scored games opening goal. Cian O’Hagan and Kevin Hammond then split the posts as Finian’s opened a lead. Fingallians, who registered an impressive win over Sylvester’s three days earlier, eventually got to grips with the game and became more unwelcoming to their visitors. The spine of the team came to the fore and midfielder Ryan Quinlan, who enjoyed a brilliant battle with Finian’s midfield brothers, Peter and Eoghan O’Connor, and centre half back David Gahan took a firm grip on the game and inspired the hosts with a seven-score spree. Fingallians hit seven points without reply, and scores from the likes of Darren Green,
Paul Kelly and Pearce McKittrick saw them go 0-8 to 1-02 ahead by half time. The second half was more tit-for-tat as the local rivals tried to cut a path to the top of the table. However, Green and Tyrell registered what proved to be decisive goals during the hosts’ dominant spells. Not to be outdone, net minder Eddie Galvin made sure the green flag behind his goal remained redundant with two superb
saves as the visitors tried to hit back. As a result, last year’s championship winners and current league leaders, Fingallians took a five-point advantage into the dying minutes, but the away side finished the game as they started it and mounted a revival. F r e e t a ke r P e t e r O’Connor raised the white flag twice as the visitors dominated the latter stages, but the full time whistle arrived before the comeback could be complete.
two three-year tickets for Croke Park for a hole in one.
FINGAL RAVENS WELL done to our ladies’ team who
Pat Kinsella on 087-9313045 to book
had a good win over Ranelagh Gaels
your tee times.
last week, they play Thomas Davis
We are hosting the U-14 Feile this
away in Kiltipper Road this Wednes-
weekend, anyone who can help
day night.
out let Mick Foley know on 086-
Senior team had a good win in the
8148464. 2011 Provincial Predictions Forms
league against Kilmacud Crokes last Friday.
are now out, please support, only
Senior team play Duleek in a chal-
€5 per entry; please get these back
lenge game at 7.15pm on Thursday
to a committee member by Satur-
night in Rolestown.
day, April 30. Best of luck to the Dublin hurlers
Annual golf classic is on Saturday, May 28 in Swords Open, contact
in their league final next Sunday.
ST FINIAN’S (SWORDS) THE intermediate Football Championship first-round match has been switched to Parnell Park on Thursday evening. Throw–in is at the earlier time of 6.45pm. The Easter Camps are running to Thursday 28th. A lot of children
ticket costs as little as €2. If every member bought a ticket, it would make a huge difference. Standing orders are available from the club office. You will be helping the club and also in with a chance to win.
have enrolled already but it’s not
The club lotto numbers drawn
too late. Come along on the day and
were 5, 13, 19 and 24. There was no
come a bit earlier to enrol if you
winner of the jackpot worth €4,300.
can.
The €50 winners were Marie Bren-
The weekly club lotto draw is a vital fund raiser for the day to day operation of the club. The weekly
nan and Clare O’Brien. Next week, the jackpot will be €4,500.
ST COLMCILLE’S THE senior footballers face Clontarf
light training session on Wednesdays
in Newcastle in the first round of the
at 7.15pm in Monastery. Spread the
Senior Football Championship on Fri-
word, all welcome.
day next at 7pm.
The premiere of the White Collar
The ladies’ senior footballers were
boxing fight night DVD in full HD will
beaten by Na Fianna in the league.
be shown in the clubrooms on the big
First Championship game is on May
screen on Saturday next at 8pm - Ger
11 - details to follow.
Hickey has worked tirelessly on the
First there was Gaelic 4 Moth-
production, so come along and relive
ers, now we are going to try Gaelic 4
the action or catch it for the first time
Fathers! We are going to start with a
if you didn’t make the night.
ALL OF YOUR SWORDS SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31
MINORITY REPORT: Finians and Fingallians young stars battle in local tie: P31
STEPHEN FINDLATER swordssport@gazettegroup.com
THE latest betting pitches Fingallians as slight underdogs as their north county derby in the Naul sees highflying St Maur’s take on the mantle of favourites. But the Swords’ outfit has been miserly in defence in the past few league games, giving up just 15 points, showing they will be a tough side to break down. And manager Alan Hanrahan believes that, while it is a tough draw, Fins have plenty of belief to build on going into Saturday’s tie (4pm).
“Rush are absolutely flying, winning their first three games and everyone’s talking about them. We’ve a very tough draw and I reckon they would be strong favourites to beat us. “But, in the championship, you never know what will happen and we’re not there to make up the numbers and we’re happy enough we’re going in the right direction.” A tight win over St Pat’s Palmerstown last week continued the run of results which saw them defeat Ballinteer St John’s – conceding just one 1-2 – and draw with Cuala.
SPORTS AWARDS: April nominees are announced: P29
Fingallians’ senior footballers have a tough tie against Rush club, St Maur’s
Its an upward curve after a late return to training left them struggling in the first series of games against Erin’s Isle.
Accustomed With Laois man Ben Quigley and Martin Hanley also becoming more and more accustomed to the Fins’ setup, they are very much stepping up. But Maur’s are the talk of the region after four wins have left them top of AFL2’s embryonic table and very much looking the team to beat. With Dublin reaching the National Football League
final, they have not had much chance to train with talisman Paul Flynn ahead of the tie but his quality will mean that he may not take long to get back into the club’s stride. Fingal Ravens, meanwhile, sit out the first round as the bye side in the 31-team competition. Their Dublin representative, Darren Daly, endured a mixed afternoon at Croke Park last Sunday as he was initially introduced from the bench in the 47th minute for skipper Bryan Cullen in the half-forwards despite playing in the backs for most of the league campaign.
With Bernard Brogan and Diarmuid Connolly also limping off, and the Dubs’ forwards struggling to make an impact in the closing stages, Daly was subbed off in the 63rd minute for Paddy Andrews. He is likely to be a central figure, though, when Ravens enter the competition at the second-round stage of the Dublin senior football championship. St Finian’s, meanwhile, begin their intermediate football championship campaign with a battle against Ballyboden St Enda’s on Thursday in Parnell Park, starting at 6.45pm.
GazetteSPORT
Fingallians Rush to claim SFC underdog status
APRIL 28, 2011