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INSIDE: Miss Ireland celebrates in true style P8

Soccer: Swords Celtic sign former Spurs’ star Page 32

Football: Sam Maguire and friends come to Fingallians Page 28

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 MOTORS ........................19 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

October 13, 2011

CHAMPION: Ziad takes first prize at Barista competition: See Page 4

Opening of new welfare office is delayed Q MIMI MURRAY

THE opening of a muchneeded new social welfare office in Swords has been hampered by delays after the developer, who is preparing the site, missed several deadlines, Labour TD Brendan Ryan claimed this week.

According to Deputy Ryan a meeting has been scheduled to take place in the coming weeks between

the Department of Social Protection, the Office of Public Works and the developer with a view to bringing the situation to a head.

“Should the developer withdraw interest in developing the site on Forster’s Way the Department will look for alternative premises in Swords,” said Deputy Ryan.

Full story on Page 4

Born to be mild: Getting to grips with Enterprise Week BEN Dunne of Ben Dunne Gyms,

and Bobby Kerr, founder of Insomnia Coffee Company and Dragon on RTE’s Dragon’s Den, were certainly in top gear at the Fingal Enterprise Awards recently.

The pair are pictured getting up close and personal with one of Celtic Riders’ motorbikes. Over 1,500 businesses took part in various events throughout Enterprise Week.

See Gallery on Page 10

2 SWORDS GAZETTE 13 October 2011

TRANSPORT: DUBLIN RD ILLEGAL PARKING

REFUSE Fingal is third county council to opt out

Lab Cllr Peter Coyle has called for double-yellow lines

Residents told: Tell the Gardai MIMI MURRAY

RESIDENTS living along the Dublin Road near St Sylvester’s School should inform the Gardai when people park illegally outside their homes, blocking their exits, the council has been told.

Labour Councillor Peter Coyle asked the council to install double yellow lines from the school to just outside the Casino in order to prevent people from parking there.

In a report, the council said: “There are double yellow or single yellow lines along both sides of Dublin Road, Malahide.

These measures are considered to be adequate and it is not proposed to provide additional lining at this location. However, the existing lining will be repainted once proposed works by Bord Gais are completed. It should be noted that enforcement of parking regulations is a matter for An Garda Siochana.”

Fine Gael Councillor

Anthony Lavin said there will be a lot more pressure once the cricket club has been built.

“It is not at school times but when ad hoc events are held there that it is impossible for residents to get out of their houses,” he said.

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‘When ad hoc events are held there it is impossible for residents to get out of their houses,’

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He said more imagination was needed on behalf of the council in order to discourage people from parking there and a small initiative might go a long way.

The manager said it was a matter for enforcement and residents should let the Gardai know if people park illegally outside their houses.

Swords residents will soon see Panda trucks collecting waste

Panda is awarded contract on waste LAURA WEBB

PANDA Waste management has been awarded the contract to take over Fingal County Council’s waste collection service following a competitive sale process.

The local authority is now the third Dublin council to opt out of the waste service. Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council was the first to opt out of its collection service in May, 2010, because of “unsustainable losses” and later sold it to Panda. Earlier this year, South Dublin County Council sold their service to Greyhound Recycling and Recovery.

Dublin City Council is also considering getting out of the waste service that is deemed “not via-

ble”.

This week, FCC officials announced that it reached an agreement with Panda Waste Management, for the sale of its residential and commercial waste collection service, following a “competitive sale process” involving a number of waste management companies operating in the private sector.

Fingal County Manager, David O’Connor said: “In November of this year, Fingal County Council will have had three successive years of cost reductions and falling income levels across our range of services.

“The challenge of continuing to deliver core services becomes greater each year; with this in mind, an independent

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‘In November of this year, Fingal County Council will have had three successive years of cost reductions and falling income levels across our range of services.’

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Manager David O’Connor

review on the viability of our waste collection service was carried out earlier this year; and it concluded unequivocally,

that there was no prospect of this service being delivered by the council on a cost-neutral basis in the current competitive waste services market.

“It is with regret therefore that the council has had to withdraw from the waste collection service. Today’s decision will allow Fingal County Council to deploy our staff and resources to other key service areas,” he said.

The county manager went on to thank council staff involved in FCC’s waste services over the years, thanking them for their “committment and loyalty”.

He also thanked the many thousands of residents who availed of the service, assuring them that they will continue

to receive the “normal waste collection service during the transition process to your new service provider. We will be working closely with Panda to ensure that the switchover is as seamless as possible”, the manager said.

Managing Director at Panda, Eamon Waters, said: “We are delighted to have this opportunity to take care of all of Fingal’s household waste and recycling needs. We strive to deliver the highest standard of service at all times at competitive prices.

“Fingal County Council are a very environmentally focused county council and we hope to continue this tradition on their behalf for the people of Fingal,” he said.

13 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 3

POLITICS Socialist Daly will seek discussion in the Dail

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Q LAURA WEBB

A DUBLIN North politician has vowed to bring the demands of the Occupy Dame Street camp to Government Buildings for a Dail debate.

This week, Socialist Party TD for Dublin North, Clare Daly, is to seek a debate in the Dail

around the demands of the Occupy Dame Street camp, which has been stationed outside Central Bank since Saturday afternoon.

“This camp initiative comes on the back of the highly significant Occupy Wall Street camp and protests which, over the last week, have spread

across the US,” Deputy Daly said.

Capitalist “Here we see a strata of young people, unemployed and workers raising core questions about the nature of the capitalist system, specifically the so-called 1% who hold the levers

of economic and political power. The camp in Dame Street has met with a ver y positive response from passers by who obviously identify with the sentiment of the campers,” she said.

Meanwhile, Dublin West TD Joe Higgins has welcomed the pro-

test movement saying: “Party colleagues are participating in the daily assemblies being convened at the camp.

“There are lively and democratic debates about the type of policies needed to respond to the crisis of mass unemployed and cuts in social spending,” he said.

Barry is set to run for seat in the Dail Q LAURA WEBB news@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL businessman and former Apprentice contestant, Barry Caesar Hunt, has officially thrown his hat in the ring to be a candidate in the upcoming Dublin West byelection.

Running as an Independent candidate, Caesar Hunt who is the owner of the Westend Barbers in Blanchardstown, was the first candidate to officially hand in his nomination papers to the Dublin County returning officer.

The businessman took to the small screens back in 2010 when he was one of the contestants in TV3’s, The Apprentice. Now he is to contest the byelection, following the death of former Minister for Finance, Brian Lenihan.

When asked why he decided to enter the race, Caesar Hunt said he and his wife, Siobhan, made the decision to “put their

money were their mouth is” and do something.

“We all sit at home watching Vincent Brow ne and it’s the s a m e o l d s t u f f , i t ’s depressing, all about bail out the banks – it’s like watching reruns of the programme and I just got sick of it. There has to be real solutions to these problems and there has to be real ways to cut back efficiently.

“I think going in there I have good ideas.

I have ideas in healthcare, education, savings, special needs assistants; I have ideas where we can generate revenue without having huge taxes, so I think I can make a difference.

“I know people think, ‘Ah, one voice, how can you make a difference’, but you are in the game, you are in the room with the boys who make the decision, they are not going to throw out a good idea. I think laterally, I understand that some points are very good, or some

Barry Caesar Hunt

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‘I think going in there I have good ideas. I have ideas in healthcare, education, savings, special needs assistants; I have ideas there where we can generate revenue without having huge taxes, so I think I can make a difference’

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points aren’t doable, but if I can suggest a change and actually back it up with fact and say, here is how we pay for it.

People come up with ideas, denounce this, denounce that, but they don’t actually come up with constructive

ideas on how to combat something. There is no one solution to any of this, if anyone tells you that they are lying.”

The father-of-two says bailing out our hospitals is something that has to be seriously considered.

“For the healthcare sys-

tem we need to bailout the hospitals. We are giving 30 billion to Anglo.

By giving €2-3 billion to the hospitals, rather than giving 30 billion to the banks - a tenth of what we are giving to the banks - we would have no cuts, no bed closures.”

He also believes there should be debt forgiveness for the many struggling to pay high mortgages on houses in negative equity.

“I am looking forward to the campaign. I am realistic and I think everyone should be thinking for one goal, and that is to get us out of this crisis.”

Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email picturedesk@gazettegroup.com

4 SWORDS GAZETTE 13 October 2011

COUNCIL Frustration as progress of delivering services comes to a standstill

Further delays to much-needed welfare office Q MIMI MURRAY

THE opening of a much-needed new social welfare office in Swords has been delayed by the developer who has missed several deadlines for preparing the site to become a full social welfare office, LabourTD Brendan Ryan claimed this week.

“I have been frustrated at the slow progress in delivering full social welfare offices

to the communities of Swords and Balbriggan and I have been pressurising the Department of Social Protection and the Office of Public Works to move these projects forward.

This week I have received new information on both projects,” said Deputy Ryan.

“In my discussions with the Department this week, it was made clear to me that the need to provide enough space

CHAMPION: GONG GOES TO AIRPORT WORKER

for all services has meant the requirement for space for a full social welfare office in Balbriggan has increased from 800 sq metres to 2,000 sq metres.

This means the Department and the OPW are seeking a new site in Balbriggan which meets the new requirements.

I have been informed that advertisements will appear in local newspapers advertising for adequate premises. Once a

new site is identified the process should take a further 12-18 months to complete.

“With regard to Swords, the Department have told me that the selection of a suitable site on Forster’s Way in Swords, is being held up as the developer has missed several deadlines for preparing the site to become a full social welfare office. However, a meeting is due to take place between the

Department, OPW and the developer in the next couple of weeks with a view to bringing the situation to a head.

Should the developer withdraw interest in developing the site on Forster’s Way the Department will look for alternative premises in Swords.

The Department is very confident this need would be met by the existing vacant office and industrial properties in

the Swords area,” he added.

“Although the process for both social welfare offices is both frustrating and slow, I am satisfied that the Department share my frustration.

I have been assured by the Department that Balbriggan and Swords are national priorities 1 and 2 respectively for the provision of full social welfare offices,” Deputy Ryan continued.

BUSINESS: McCABE’S PHARMACY WINS INTERNET AWARD

Top barista, Ziad Nakhoul

Local barista grinds out a top result Q MIMI MURRAY news@gazettegroup.com

A BARISTA from Dublin Airport has become a world champion after taking the top prize at a major event in London.

Ziad Nakhoul, who manages the Upper Crust coffee shop in Terminal 1 Arrivals, was the overall winner at the SSP Caffe Ritazza World Barista Championships.

He took first place after producing what the judges described as four “faultless” espressos and cappuccinos.

The event is designed to recognise excellence and reward achievement among employees at SSP’s worldwide chain of coffee houses.

Caffe Ritazza International Franchise Director and competition organiser, Stuart Coombes,

described Ziad as “a great barista” and said his performance was outstanding.

Lebanon-born Ziad, who has worked for SSP at Dublin Airport for 11 years, went on to produce a signature drink, called Oriental Sensation.

Inspired by the flavours of the Middle East, his drink features espresso accented with rose syrup, cardamom and fennel garnished with chocolate He said he would use his prize money to treat himself to a coffee machine for his home. “I really enjoy learning from competition. I love the challenge,” he said.

Second prize in the event went to Marta Twardygrosz, from Liverpool Airport, while Kajsa Bysell, from Stockholm Central Station in Sweden, came third.

Ciara McCabe and Orla Murphy, McCabe’s Pharmacy, with Louise Phelan, Paypal, and Maeve Kneafsey, IIA Chair.

‘Visionary’ website increases business Q MIMI MURRAY

A SWORDS woman and website manager with McCabe’s Pharmacy, Orla Murphy, has won the Irish Internet Association Net Visionary Award in the ‘Best Breakthrough Brick to Click’ category.

The ‘Best Breakthrough Brick to Click’ award recognises an organisation with an established offline business which in the last two years has incorporated the inter-

net to become a core pillar of their business model. McCabe’s Pharmacy recently launched an e-commerce website which has seen the pharmacy chain generate sales across Ireland.

Discussing the award win, Sharen McCabe, Managing Director, McCabe’s Pharmacy said: “We’re delighted to receive this award, particularly as we have been working hard on the e-commerce elements of

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‘We’re delighted to receive this award, as we have been working hard on the e-commerce elements of our website this year’

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our website this year. Our website is a key channel in communicating with our customers and providing useful healthcare advice as well as an effective sales channel for our products. Our family busi-

ness has evolved greatly since our first pharmacy in 1981 and McCabesPharmacy.com is the latest important development in the journey.” w w w.mccabespharmacy.com offers product

ranges including healthcare products, mother and baby items and beauty products.

McCabe’s Pharmacy was established in 1981 with the first pharmacy in Malahide and has grown to 20 pharmacies nationwide. 2011 is the 13th year of the Net Visionary Awards, which are the only awards run and voted on by the internet industry and this year saw a record number of entries for the awards.

13 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 5

HEALTH Getting hands-on with osteopathy

A fix for pesky aches and pains Q MIMI MURRAY

swords@gazettegroup.com

A NEW osteopathy studio has recently been opened by Karen Crookes and Tony O’Brien in Energie Fitness, Applewood Village.

Karen initially trained as a nurse at John Moores University Liverpool, where she gained valuable experience on different ward settings, where her focus was very much patient-centred care. “I have always been extremely interested in the human body and how it works. Holistic therapies appealed to me so I decided to undertake a BSc (Hons) degree in Osteopathy at the highly acclaimed European School of Osteopathy. Osteopaths study for four to five years on a full-time basis for an undergraduate degree. This is similar to a medical degree, however there is a big emphasis on anatomy and musculoskeletal medicine.

“Osteopathy is a very gentle form of treatment, which is suitable for everyone. The tools of an osteopath are primarily his or her hands,

where an osteopathic treatment may include massage, manipulation or more special types of treatment such as cranial osteopathy, relaxation or body adjustment.

“Osteopaths treat the whole person, not just the symptom for a more harmonious balanced body.

“Balance is a fundamental issue, a balance between the muscles, ligaments and joints - a balanced body is the key issue,” says Karen.

“An osteopath can detect imbalance within the body and will try to restore balance using gentle hands-on treatment.

“Osteopathy can help with back and neck pain, whiplash, disc injuries, joint pain, ar thritis, headaches/migraines, sports injuries, general ill health and many other ailments. It is extremely important to the osteopath to get you out of pain as quickly as possible, but is also important to prevent relapses.

Therefore osteopaths may also give advice on diet, posture, occupation, sport and exercises,” she says.

St Mary’s National applies for extension ST Mary’s National School in Garristown has applied for planning permission for the development of a single-storey building comprising four classrooms.

The planning application to Fingal County Council also consists of the construction of a staff room with covered way link to the rear of the existing school, relocation of an existing pre-fabricated classroom to link to the new building, retention of a single-storey resource room to the side and associated siteworks.

Fingal Pop-Up Shop offer ANYONE interested in starting a pop up shop in Fingal should contact Fingal County Council.

A Pop-Up Shop is a vacant commercial property that is offered on a temporary basis to start-up businesses, local entrepreneurs, people from the arts and crafts sector or local community groups.

If you are a potential Pop-Up tenant or Pop-Up landlord register your interest with FCC at popupshop@fingalcoco.ie or phone 01-890 5708/5687.

Karen treats one of her customers

Osteopaths focus on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders, by using a combination of osteopathic and conventional techniques to find the root of the problem. You do not need an initial G.P. referral to see an osteopath.

Karen is a member of the Osteopathic Council of Ireland (OCI) and a member of the British Osteopathic Association.

Email karen on info@ irishosteopath.com or alternatively, phone on 086 309 1915 for more information on treatment.

Osteopathy is suitable for everyone, Karen says

Change-of-use plan is opposed Q MIMI MURRAY

MALAHIDE/HOWTH councillors have recommended that Fingal County Councillors should refuse a planning application for the change of use of Fragrance House in Malahide Marina Village.

Gerard Gannon properties have applied to change a factory and retail unit into a food market with a restaurant/cafe including hot takeaway food.

FastNews

It would also include an offlicence, external seating section and an outdoor area for seasonal market stalls.

Labour Councillor Peter Coyle said that any changes should be related to the marine and that he was strongly opposing the application.

His party colleague, Cian O’Callaghan, said that he also opposed it and said it would lead to the sprawl of Malahide and that it would not be good for the

town centre. He said a change of function would make the situation worse.

Fine Gael Councillor and Area chairperson, Joan Maher, also recommended refusal.

Meanwhile, there is no financial provision for changing rooms at Velvet Strand, Fingal County Council said last week.

Labour Councillor Peter Coyle asked that the council provide a small changing room facility for regular year-round swimmers

near the steps at Portmarnock’s Velvet Strand.

The council said it is aware of the request by local swimmers for changing facilities beside the steps at Portmarnock beach.

While the council is disposed towards providing such a facility, it is estimated that the work required to include blockwork, roof and door would cost in the region of €10,000 for which no financial provision has been made.

6 SWORDS GAZETTE 13 October 2011

FCC Public invited to attend Open Days

Tyrrelstown Little

Annsbrook

Newtowncorduff

Rathartan

Baldurgan Cookstown

Saucerstown

Your A to Z byelection Barry Caesar Hunt Independent

FINGAL

Cloghran

MEATH

THE RACE With weeks to

BORN in Dublin city centre but raised and educated in the local area.

Barry attended Blakestown community school and then Bolton Street College on a trade apprenticeship.

He successfully ran a number of businesses from 1999 until 2008.

He now owns and runs a barber in Blanchardstown.

Clonshagh

DUBLIN CITY KILDARE

Nine potential land parcels in the northern part of the Greater Dublin Area have been chosen as suitable for the proposed regional wastewater treatment plant

Nine sites identified for treatment plant Q LAURA WEBB

FINGAL County Council has identified nine potential sites for a major new wastewater treatment plant that will cater for an estimated 700,000 people when completed.

Details of the nine sites will be available for members of the public to view at a series of public consultation meetings in FCC’s head office in Swords and set to take place over the next six weeks.

This week, the local authority revealed the nine potential land parcels in the northern part of the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) suitable for the proposed regional wastewater treatment plant, along with a marine outfall and orbital drainage system.

According to the council, the new infrastructure is needed to “provide sustainable and reliable drainage and wastewater treatment for the GDA to

meet current and future economic, industrial and residential demands, to protect the environment and to meet the EU Water Framework Directive standards”.

The nine locations identified are: Annsbrook, approximately 2.5km north east of Ballyboghil; Baldurgan, approximately 1.6km south east of Ballyboghil; Cloghran, approximately 2.2km east of Dublin Airport and 3.3km south of Swords; Clonshagh (Clonshaugh), approximately 2.5km east of Dublin Air por t and 1.3km north of Belcamp and Darndale; Cookstown, approximately 2.5km south-east of Ballyboghil; Newtowncorduff, approximately 2.2km west of Lusk; Rathartan, approximately 2 km west of Rush and 3km to the east of Lusk; Saucerstown, approximately 3.3km north-west of Swords; Tyrrelstown Little, approximately

2.8km north-east of Lusk and 3.6km north-west of Rush.

Maps and details of the land parcels are available to download at: www. greaterdublindrainage. ie. The report, with the maps, is also available on display at County libraries in Balbriggan, Baldoyle, Blanchardstown, Garristown, Howth, Malahide, Rush, Skerries, and Swords, the four mobile libraries and the two planning counters: Fingal County Hall, Swords and Blanchardstown Civic Offices. CDs of the report can be purchased for €5 and hard copies for €30 from the two planning counters.

Each of the land parcels is larger than the approximately 20 hectares required for the proposed new regional wastewater treatment plant, which will cater for wastewater for an estimated 700,000 population equivalent, with the majority of the load

coming from the Fingal County Council area.

“We invite local people and all interested stakeholders to attend at any of four open days to be held by the Project Team at Fingal County Hall, Swords during October and November,” says Peter O’Reilly, project engineer, Fingal Co Council.

The dates and times for the Open Days in Fingal County Council’s Swords headquarters are: Saturday, October 22 from 11am to 4pm, Wednesday, October 26 from 2pm to 8pm, Thursday, November 3 from 2pm to 8pm and Saturday, November 5 from 11am to 4pm.

Comments and queries can be sent to info@ greaterdublindrainage.ie, the Project Team can be contacted at 1890 44 55 67 or people can write to Greater Dublin Drainage Project Manager, C/O RPS Group, West Pier Business Campus, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.

Eithne Loftus Fine Gael Eithne Loftus was born in Mayo, but has lived in Castleknock for the past 30 years. She is a mother of three adult children. Loftus was co-opted onto Fingal County Council in 2007, to fill the seat formerly held by Fine Gael colleague, Leo Varadkar TD. She was elected to FCC again in the 2009 local elections, securing the second seat in Castleknock. In 1987 she contested the general election for Dublin West but was unsuccessful, and ran in the 1991 local elections for Castleknock but failed to take a seat.

Patrick Nulty Labour Party Nulty, who narrowly lost out on taking a seat in Dublin West in the last General Election, grew up in Corduff and went to St. Patrick’s National School and Riversdale Community College.

He studied social policy and social science. The Labour Councillor works as a Policy Officer with a leading homeless charity.

He was elected to Fingal County Council in the 2009 local elections.

13 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 7

go before the byelection, we profile those chasing the seat

of Dublin West candidates...

Benny Cooney, Independent

David McGuinness, Fianna Fail

Cooney, who hails from Westmeath, is a FAS employee. He has contested three General Elections. In 1992 he ran in Westmeath and for the same constituency in 1997 but did not secure a seat. He also contested the 2011 General Election in Dublin Central and Longford/Westmeath but was unsuccessful.

McGuinness is Fianna Fail’s youngest county councillor in Ireland. He contested the 2011 General Election alongside Brian Lenihan. He was born and raised in Corduff, Blanchardstown and went to school locally in St. Patrick’s Junior and Senior National Schools, Corduff, and Riversdale Community College.

David is a secondary school teacher. He was elected to Fingal County Council in 2009 taking the fourth seat.

A vote transfer pact at this year’s byelection is not on the cards

Vote transfer pact ruled out by Nulty Q LAURA WEBB

Jim Tallon, Independent

John Frank Kidd, Independent

Jim is from Arklow and works as a farmer.

John is from Hartstown and is a retired fire officer.

Ruth Coppinger, Socialist Party Socialist Councillor Ruth Coppinger was coopted to Fingal County Council in 2003 replacing Joe Higgins, who gave up his seat under the dual mandate. She was elected to Fingal County Council in the 2004 local elections, taking the first seat in Mulhuddart and again in the 2009 local elections. She contested the 2011 General Election alongside Joe Higgins. Coppinger is also a parent living in Mulhuddart, is a secondary teacher and active member of the ASTI.

Paul Donnelly, Sinn Fein

Roderic O’Gorman, Green Party

Donnelly has lived in Clonsilla for 15 years. He is employed as a Project Worker with the School Completion Programme in Coolock. Paul joined Sinn Féin in Blanchardstown in 1995. He became the party’s public representative in the area in 1996. He was co-opted to Fingal County Council in 2008 to fill the seat of Felix Gallagher. He stood in the 2009 local elections but was unsuccessful. He also stood in the 2011 General Election but did not get a seat.

O’Gorman is originally from Mulhuddart and now lives in Blanchardstown Village. He has been a local Green Party representative for the last seven years. He is a third-level lecturer and recently completed a PhD in EU Law. He contested the local elections for Castleknock in 2004 and in 2009 but was unsuccessful in both.

He also contested the 2007 and 2011 General Elections in Dublin West but did not secure a seat.

swords@gazettegroup.com

COUNCILLOR Patrick Nulty, Labour’s Dublin West byelection candidate, has ruled out a vote transfer pact with Fine Gael because he says he is “focused on winning a seat for the Labour Party”.

Councillor Nulty is considered a strong contender in the upcoming byelection but he quashed speculation this week about a possible pact between Labour and Fine Gael in terms of transfers.

It’s understood that senior members of the FG believe it makes sense to secure a seat for one of the Government parties.

Speaking to the Gazette, the Mulhuddart councillor said he won’t agree to a transfer pact with any political party.

“I am campaigning as a Labour party candidate and I want to get as

many number 1 votes as I can for me, based on my record as a public representative in Dublin West.

For those committed to supporting any other party, I would like them to consider me for their number 2 or the highest possible preference,” he said.

When asked if anyone has approached him in relation to a vote transfer pact with FG he said: “nobody has.”

“If they did I wouldn’t be interested in a pact with any other party. I am totally focused on winning a seat for the Labour party and I believe our record in West Dublin is one we can be proud of,” Cllr Nulty said.

The Labour party had the strongest candidate in Dublin West, at the General Election with Joan Burton topping the poll. The combined votes between Burton and Nulty totalled 28.9 percent, while Fine Gael’s

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combined votes for their party candidates, Leo Varadkar and Kieran Dennison, was at 27.19 percent. Varadkar’s running mate in the General Election, Mulhuddart Councillor Dennison failed to secure the candidacy for Fine Gael in the upcoming byelection, instead the party chose Castleknock councillor Eithne Loftus to run.

Meanwhile, the Socialist Party’s Ruth Coppinger is also considered to be one of the stronger candidates.The byelection is also being contested by Fianna Fail’s local councillor David McGuinness, Sinn Fein’s Paul Donnelly, Green Party’s Roderic O’Gorman and a number of Independents including local businessman Barry Caesar Hunt and Benny Cooney.

The byelection is taking place on October 27, the same day as the Presidential election and two referenda.

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8 SWORDS GAZETTE 13 October 2011

IT’S YOUR STORY Camille’s boutique becoming famous

Local boutique owner Camille Ingoldsby poses with regular client, RTE’s Kathryn Thomas, and a guest at a recent tribute night in Malahide

Style and flair is the secret of her success --------------------------

Q LOUISE HALL

WHEN Camille Ingoldsby decided to open a fashionable, bespoke boutique almost two years ago, little did she know the huge celebrity client base her Malahide shop would attract.

Situated upstairs in a tastefully decorated room in the Georgian building of St. James’ Terrace, Camille Boutique, is fast becoming a much-loved favourite for many wellknown names such as Kathryn Thomas, from RTE’s No Frontiers and Winning Streak.

It is widely considered to be a “secret closet” of stylish clothes at affordable prices.

“I usually open the shop on a Sunday for Kathryn,” Camille says, “as I understand she has an extremely busy schedule and I like to accommodate her as best I can; like I do with all my clients.”

Aisling O’Loughlin, from Xpose

Camille is a self-confessed shopaholic and her passion for fashion stems way back from her childhood.

“My mother was a fantastic dress-maker and made all our clothes as kids. She also supplied Michael H and many of the popular department stores in Dublin city,” Camille says, adding that her uncle, too, was a big player in the fashion industry in Ireland and that her father was a fantastic salesman who inspired her in the business.

It was inevitable, then,

for the young enthusiast, to set up her first boutique in Raheny, back in the 80’s, along with the help of her mother who supported her one hundred percent with the venture.

When recession hit Ireland back then, Camille emmigrated to Canada for 10 years. Over there, she went back to University and re-educated herself in a many areas, including PR, which, she insists, helps her when dealing with her existing well-known clients.

On return to Ireland, Camille kept her dream of having her own fashion

Geraldine O’ Callaghan

label alive, and, two years ago, she and a friend set up in the existing Georgian room, across from Malahide Tennis Club, where they began designing and making their own exclusive clothes.

Determined to make it successful, Camille threw herself into work, spending seven days a week making dresses. When her friend was unable to commit long-term to the project, Camille pressed ahead and decided to open her doors to the eager public. She quickly became established as the one-stop-shop for all

‘I was able to secure some well-known, exclusive lables such as Stop Staring’

--------------------------

occasions.

“I began sourcing certain reputable labels and, through my research, I was able to secure some well-known exclusive labels, such as Stop Staring,” Camille says.

Camille officially launched Camille Boutique in May 2010 in Cruzzo’s Restaurant, where Kathryn Thomas hosted the event. Some of Ireland’s top models strutted their stuff, including, Brian McFadden’s new girlfriend, Vogue Williams.

T he hard-working mother of one has

appeared on Ireland AM no less than four times, and, since her first appearance where she joined fashion stylist Lisa Fitzpatrick; all the TV3 girls now buy their dresses from her, including Sinead Desmond, Aisling O’Loughlin (Expose) and Elaine Crowley (Midday).

Lisa herself told the hardworking fashion enthusiast that she has a natural flair for styling.

Staying with the idea that women can have “celebrity fashion at affordable prices,” Camille insists that she offers a unique personal touch where she can provide styling tips and alterations to suit the individual clients needs.

Having just sourced exclusive coats by Irish designer Lizzie Nolan, she also stocks exclusive jewellery by Irish designer, Siobhan Finney and hats by the famous Irish Designer Suzie

O’Mahoney.

Other fans of Camille’s unique pieces include former Apprentice star and new Hostess of Harry’s on the Green, Geraldine O’Callaghan. Camille recently dressed Miriam Ahern for her annual Cari lunch and for the VIP style awards. Former Miss Ireland, Emma Waldron, and current Miss Ireland, Holly Carpenter are also considered satisfied clients.

“I have a vision for my boutique and I hope to have my own label up and running in the near future.

That is the ultimate goal for me, as well as continuing to offer the personal touch to each and every one of my new and existing clients,” she said.

The intriguing bespoke boutique is fast becoming known as the place to go and what used to be Malahide’s best-kept secret, will soon be Malahide’s best-known gem.

13 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 9

EVENT Model celebrates her birthday at Wright Venue

Birthday girl Holly Carpenter dressed to impress

Birthday bash for Holly

Holly is joined by some of her friends who also looked fantastic in some great Halloween-themed costumes

HE stunning Miss Ireland, Holly Carpenter, celebrated her birthday in style recently in The Wright Venue Penthouse.

With Halloween just around the corner, she decided to have everyone come in fancy dress, which ensured that there was plenty of fantastically dressed guests on the night.

Friends and family were treated to finger food and champagne as they partied until the early hours.

As well as the party being a birthday celebration, it was also an opportunity for her friends to wish her luck as she head off to compete in The Miss World Competition.

T

A very impressive Avatar-themed character

This group really got into the spirit of the party

10 SWORDS GAZETTE 13 October 2011

EVENT Fingal Enterprise Awards at the Europa Academy

Top prize for Fleet Connect HE Fingal Enterprise Awards took place at the Europa Academy in Swords, during the recent Fingal Enterprise Week.

Over 1,500 businesses took part in various events during the week, which was supported by Fingal County Council, Bank of Ireland and Newstalk. Patrick Cotter, from Fleet Connect, won the overall prize this year and will now represent Fingal at the National Enterprise Awards in November.

T

Fingal Mayor, Gerry McGuire and Patrick Cotter, of Fleet Connect Ltd

Ben Dunne, Ben Dunne Gyms, and Bobby Kerr, founder

Presenter of RTE’s, Dragon’s Den, Richard Curran; Ben Dunne, Ben Dunne Gyms; Bobby Kerr, founder of insomnia Coffee company and Dragon on

Oisin Geoghegan, CEO, Fingal County Enterprise Board, and

of insomnia Coffee company and Dragon on RTE’s

RTE’s Dragon’s Den, and Nicola Byrne, CEO 11890

Patrick Cotter

Dragon’s Den

13 October 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 13 October 2011

GazetteNUTRITION NUTRITION It’s true don’t skip breakfast

Healthy eating habits in the morning are just as important as you think

LEILA JOHARI

WE HAVE all heard it said, breakfast is the most important meal of the day yet many of us still cram most of our food intake from lunchtime until a big burst in the evening. Breakfast… it is what it says. A meal that breaks the fast your body has been enduring overnight.

Why do we need breakfast?

When you wake up, your blood sugar levels are low and need to be topped up. Eating breakfast will give you the fuel that you need to start the day.

Skipping breakfast can lead to a lack of concentration, weakness, and headaches.

Breakfast is an ideal opportunity to get certain nutrients into your diet that you may not find space for later in the day-yoghurt and milk provide calcium, many people only take these foods at breakfast with their cereal. Having fresh or dried fruits, and natural fruit juices, can help you attain your ‘5 a day’ and boost your vitamin C levels.

Those who don’t eat breakfast are more likely to have a mid morning snack. Usually people crave something sweet.

This is your body telling you off for not giving it breakfast and it needs glucose fast! Highly refined sweet food will provide you with that within minutes, so you eat a sugary snack like a biscuit that contains no nutrition.

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‘A healthy breakfast will kick-start all the body’s functions’

-------------------------What is a healthy breakfast?

A healthy breakfast should provide your body with enough calories protein, complex carbohydrates, a little fat and a variety of vitamins and minerals that will kick-start all the body’s functions.

Here are some healthy breakfast options to help you prepare a nutritious breakfast that will keep you going all day.

Porridge and berries; This is a great way to start the day as the oats have a low glycaemic index (GI) which means that they realise energy slowly throughout the day and help stabilize the appetite.

Just go easy on the honey!

Beans on toast; Beans are full of soluble fibre and have a low GI like oats so keep you fuller for longer. To ensure this is a healthy breakfast, serve the beans with whole grain brown bread and avoid butter.

Poached Egg on rye; Eggs are an excellent source of protein.

Poached eggs are an especially healthy option as there is no fat added.

Rye bread is a tasty alternative to brown bread-a much better choice than a fried egg and soldiers!

Many people claim that they simply do not have time to prepare breakfast in the morning and prefer

to get that extra shut eye in bed! That’s fair enough but it doesn’t mean that you need to skip breakfast altogether. There are several options for a quick and healthy breakfast.

Fruit and a small tub of natural low fat yogurt will provide you with vitamins and the dairy you need to maintain strong bones and teeth. It is easy to add a selection of mixed berries such as strawberries, raspberries and blueberries to a tub of natural low fat yogurt. What would make this breakfast even more nutritious would be a sprinkling of chopped hazelnuts or almonds on top!

Fortified breakfast cereal and low fat milk will take seconds to prepare. Fortified breakfast cereals are the ideal way to get a good helping of vital vitamins and minerals, especially calcium, iron and folic acid and the B group vitamins. Served with a glass of pure fruit juice they will contribute to your ‘5 a day’.

One mashed banana on wholemeal toast will also satisfy your stomach and help prevent those mid morning cravings.

What about the Sunday brunch?

Ironically, after not eating any breakfast at all throughout the week, a lot us then eat a huge breakfast on Sunday!

This weekend, why not try a healthier twist on the traditional fry-up?

Grilled bacon, tomatoes, flat field mushrooms and beans served with wholemeal toast is a nutritious and delicious alternative.

13 October 2011 GAZETTE 13

EDUCATION School children get to bring home the basics of DIY

Hand up for local talent

Building for the future with B&Q B&Q IRELAND is giving school children as young as five the chance to learn basic DIY skills in the classroom thanks to Job Done!

Job Done! is a national curriculum-linked programme run in partnership with National Schools Partnership and Department of Education and Skills.

The Job Done! programme revolves around six units, Decorate It, Build It, Fix It Grow It, Health & Safety and Rethink It, with the aim of improving the practical skills of young people.

Repairs Students from 5–11 years will be introduced to many basic aspects of DIY, with lesson plans including using basic tools safely, making repairs, hanging wallpapers, growing flowers and vegetables and saving energy.

The programme is delivered through a teaching pack for schools and a complementary teacher website, www. diyjobdone.com, and is designed to complement the existing schools curriculum, such as Citizenship, Science, DT Art, DT,

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

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--------------------------

‘Students are encouraged to design an edible or wildlife-friendly container’ --------------------------

Visual Art and Maths.

The programme also includes a fantastic online competition giving schools and students the chance to win prizes including a €300 gift card. Students from 5-16 years can enter and are encouraged to design an edible or wildlife friendly container.

Secondary Schools also have the opportunity to benefit from in-store sessions at B&Q, where they get the chance to come in to the store and complete the Decorate It module, in which they learn different painting and decorating techniques.

Meadbh McCabe, from Colaiste Pobail Sentana, who was involved in Job Done! last year, commented: “Our students thoroughly enjoyed taking part in Job Done! The programme was hugely useful and the students

really enjoyed getting stuck in.

“They par ticularly enjoyed the visit to B&Q Swords, where the staff were excellent in guiding the children and giving them the confidence to try out their new found skills. I would encourage schools to get behind this very worthwhile project and we certainly look forward to taking part this year.”

Research Mark Gould, director for B&Q Ireland, said: “We know from our research there is a lack of DIY skills being passed down to young people and we want to show them how easy it is to build, fix, decorate and grow. We want everyone to feel confident about their DIY skills, and with this programme, that’s available to primary and secondary schools, we’re giving them skills they’ll be able to use again and again.”

Primary and secondary schools across Ireland have the opportunity to sign up to Job Done! now at www.diyjobdone.com and to download the lesson plans for each of the different units.

MUSIC

Glen Foran from Colaiste Pobail Sentana at B&Q Swords Job Done! last year

SINGER/SONGWRITER Sinead McNally, with help from Dublin radio presenter, Keith McLoughlin, are setting up The Songwriter Club.

The idea behind the club is to bring songwriters together every couple of months to talk about all sorts of songwriting stuff, share ideas, set up collaborating groups, and to have fun getting to know each other. There will also be special guests from the music industry.

All songwriters are welcome to attend.

The first meeting takes place on Saturday, October 15, at 2pm in The Village on Wexford Street in Dublin 2. For more informatinon, contact Sinead or Keith at mcnallysinead@hotmail.com or keitho89@hotmail.com.

14 GAZETTE 13 October 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY Get lippy with new VERYONE’S favourite, can’tlive-without beauty essential Carmex™ has combined its famous moisturising power with a gorgeous sheer light colour with its new Carmex Moisture Plus lip balms.

Loved by celebrities such as Holly Willoughby and Kate Winslet, they are perfect for any occasion, from putting the finishing touch to a makeup look, to adding a tinted lip to an otherwise natural face, Carmex Moisture Plus™ is sure to be an essential in every girl’s handbag.

Containing Vitamin E, aloe, shea butter and all important SPF 15, Carmex Moisture Plus’ u l t r a - hy d r a t i n g f o rmulation will give you

E

Carmex Moisture Plus Lip Balm

moisture, shine and colour all in one stylish slim line package, its slanted tip ensuring perfect application-no mirror required!

C a r m e x Mo i s t u r e Plus™ is an ultrahydrating lip balm that provides moisture, with a hint of colour and shine.

Available in a sheer tint finish in both pink and peach and a clear satin gloss finish, Carmex Moisture Plus™ will ensure your lips look smooth, supple and kissably soft!

RRP Price: €5.99

Pamper your face throughout the winter with The Handmade Soap Company’s two facial moisturising creams QUENCH thirsty facial skin with The Handmade Soap Company’s two facial moisturising creams. Every skin type needs to be kept hydrat-

ed to avoid fine lines and wrinkles and ensure it stays looking radiant.

These one-of-a-kind, handmade beauty treats perform and pamper ensuring your face feels comfortable when the cold winds blow and temperatures start falling.

Moisturising Cream (for Dry Skin Types) Ideal for normal to dry skin types, The Moisturising Cream for dry skin is a beautiful, rich cream, which has been specially formulated to revitalise and replenish dry skin, using a specially selected blend of hydrating ingredients, like apricot kernel and evening primrose oils, and is fragrantly scented with patchouli, palmarosa, lavender and sweet orange. This deeply nourishing cream will leave even the driest of skin feeling soft and smooth.

Meanwhile, T he Moisturising Cream for Oily & Combina-

tion Skin Types is a light, delicate cream which both hydrates and purifies. Containing gentle calendula and sweet almond oils, it is scented with the floral/fruity tones of bergomot, ylangylang and palmarosa essential oils. This is a wonderful, lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser that sinks in leaving no greasy residue.

The Handmade Soap Co. Moisturisers are priced at €24.95

13 October 2011 GAZETTE 15

GOT A STORY? Edited by Dawn Love

WE WANT TO KNOW!

Carmex lip balm Health and beauty event all set for Blanchardstown A TEAM of skincare experts will be on hand to provide free tips and advice at McCabe’s Pharmacy at the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre on Friday, October 14.

The team will be led by skincare expert, Suzanne Hayes, who has been nominated for Vichy Adviser of the Year. sdgdsfgdsfgsdf

Be kind to yourself with the latest from Carmex and The Handmade Soap

Style The event will take place in the Style Lounge on Level Two in Blanchardstown Shopping Centre from 11am to 3pm on Friday 14th of October The skincare seminar will have a specific focus on skincare and health checks for women. “We’ll be looking at antiaging creams and reviewing products such as Vichy’s new Normaderm anti-age

Company

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cream,” says Suzanne.

The event is part of a nationwide series of health and beauty events being organized by McCabe’s Pharmacy.

Health The pharmacy chain provides 13 health screening tests in the pharmacy including cholesterol levels, cardiovascular health, thyroid, bone density, food intolerance and lifestyle and dietary advice.

Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com

16 GAZETTE 13 October 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes THE CRANBERRIES are set to release their new album, Roses, on Valentine’s Day, 2011.

The reunited band recorded the 11-track LP in Toronto, after a recent tour, as lead singer Dolores O’Riordan now lives in Canada.

The epic album, Rome, from legendary producer Dangermouse and Daniele Luppi, is to form the basis for a new film. The record, which featured contributions from the likes of White Stripes’ Jack White, was based on a sci-fi novel by Aiden Bell, and has been optioned for filming by innovative video director Chris Milk. Milk was responsible for the interactive video for Arcade Fire’s We Used To Wait, which you can still take part in at www. thewildernessdowntown.com.

Competition time: Win special editions of The Overtones’ LP Singing sensations, the Overtones, are on the march and recently brought their doo-wop stylings to the National Concert Hall. For the uninitiated, we have special Platinum Editions of their recent album, which features three new tracks, in our great competition.

To win a copy of Good Ol Fashioned Love, simply answer the following question: Where does band member Timmy Matley come from?

Send your answer to competition@ gazettegroup.com, with the subject line “Overtones”, before Friday, October 21.

REVIEW: A WELCOME RETURN FOR CANADIAN SONGWRITER

Speaking of interactivity, the ever-creative Bjork this week releases Bilophilia, her new album, as iPad and iPhone apps. The project, that was premiered in Manchester earlier this year, is a wholly interactive experience, with listeners/users able to navigate a 3D universe in which the songs are located. Each has its own essay on the song, games to play that open up new parts of the songs, and is narrated by David Attenborough. Oh, and the music is some of the best of her career...

Feist takes a feisty fresh direction on Metals

The music world was a little more empty last week with the death of folk legend, Bert Jansch. The guitarist, who was a huge influence on a generation of artists including Johnny Marr, Neil Young and Jimmy Page, passed away at the too-young age of 67.

FOUR years ago, Leslie Feist found herself in the unenviable position that many alternative acts have experienced.

Her single, 1234, had found itself on a playlist at Apple, and it became the backbone of a marketing campaign that helped the iPod Nano sell an awful lot of units.

It also led her to selling an awful lot of records and concer t tickets as the underground acknowledgement of Feist as one of the foremost artists of a generation came into the col-

Bert Jansch (right) with Johnny Marr

Q ROB HEIGH

lective consciousness.

And, as is often the case where someone of such talent has immense fame land on them, so Feist took herself off for an extended sabbatical, albeit one in which she was able to appear occasionally with Broken Social Scene, the Canadian collective whose rotating line-up has also included Metric’s Emily Haines.

Feist was also kept on the radar when James Blake memorably covered Limit To Your Love.

Four years later, she is back in the game with

Leslie Feist returns after the success of 2007’s The Reminder

a new record to follow up the incredible The Reminder album.

Reinvention Metals is a reinvention of sorts, moving away from the previously hook-laden melodies of her previous recordings, and focusing more on mood and tone, while retaining the lilting way with a melody that has always been present in her work since 1999’s debut, Monarch.

T h a t ’s n o t t o s ay that this is a complete depar ture from the canon of work Feist has

built up to this stage, just that what appears on Metals is a more considered and textural approach to the songs, especially on the likes of the string-propelled A Commotion.

And the focus on the musicality extends to Feist’s vocals, which have never sounded so assured or smooth.

The production, by regular collaborators Chilly Gonzales and Mocky, allow the vocals space to claim their prominence in the mix, and they really benefit from the focus that

allows the listener to put on them, especially on the sparse introduction to Undiscovered First.

It is as though Feist has decided to step back from the pop-driven stylings on classic tracks from her last release, and let her voice wander through the music, as torch songs and almost ambient backings get an extra layer of shimmer from her impressive and expressive voice.

W hich, all in all, makes this album less Metals, and more velvet and smoke.

13 October 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY ATHBOY: A FOUR-BEDROOM FAMILY HOME IN COUNTY MEATH FOR €196,000

Meadows welcome in the country CARTY Property Advisors are bringing No 44 Turry Meadows, in Athboy, Co Meath, a large family home with three bedrooms, to the market for €196,000, a significantly reduced asking price.

The property is a large 230 sq mt family home set in a soughtafter residential estate on the Oldcastle Road out of Athboy.

This fine family home, which was constructed to an exceptionally high standard, provides wellproportioned accommodation throughout.

The property comprises an entrance hall with a pine staircase, coving and features stained glass window in ceiling. The lounge has a laminate floor, and a feature fireplace with wood surround.

There is a fitted kitchen with tiled floor and part-tiled walls, a window overlooking the rear garden, and built-in oven and hob. The utility room has a door

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‘The ground floor features a WC and shower room with an electric shower’

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to the rear of the property and is plumbed for a washing machine and dryer.

The ground floor also features a ground floor wc and shower room, with a fully tiled shower unit with electric shower, wc, whb, as well as a window to the side and a door to the groundfloor bedroom.

Upstairs, the landing has a feature stained-glass window and hot press, and the family bathroom, which has a tiled floor, part-tiled walls, white suite, a window to the side, and a separate fully-tiled shower unit with electric shower.

The master bedroom has a

wooden floor and built-in wardrobes, with an en suite, which contains a separate, fully tiled shower with electric shower and Velux window.

The other bedrooms also have wooden floors and built-in wardrobes.

The property is approached by a cobbled driveway and has a large front and rear landscaped garden and has a garden shed, and a gated side entrance.

The property, which has been stylishly decorated and maintained in good condition throughout, benefits from its quiet cul-desac location.

It also has a maintenance-free exterior, as well as a burglar alarm system.

Viewing is highly recommended and appointments to see Turry Meadows can be arranged by contacting Carty Property Advisors in Trim on 04694 86860 or 086 382 8044.

Number 44 Turry Meadows, Athboy, is on the market with an asking price of €196,000

18 GAZETTE 13 October 2011

Gazette Contacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251 General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com

Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications.

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

ENTERPRISE Getting down to business at CORKMEET DUBLIN 2011

Hold 3,000 meetings in one day CORKMEET, organisers of Ireland’s largest business-tobusiness networking event, has announced that it is to hold its annual networking forum in Dublin for the first time on November 10, 2011 at Croke Park Conference Centre.

Approximately 300 Irish businesses will conduct over 3,000 one-to-one business meetings in just one day as part of CORKMEET DUBLIN 2011.

The event will provide Cork and Dublin businesses with the opportunity to network and explore business opportunities in the Irish marketplace.

For a nominal participation fee of just €60, businesses can take part in the event,

that provides a real opportunity to develop meaningful business relationships with potential clients and partners. Places are booking up fast and the organisers are encouraging businesses to register early at www.corkmeet.ie.

Speaking at the launch of the CORKMEET Dublin Forum 2011, Ger Power, head of finance and economic development, Cork County Council, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for Cork and Dublin businesses to network and communicate at very low cost and affords them a great opportunity to do business.”

Sean O’Sullivan, chairman of the CORKMEET Committee, added: “CORK-

Meabh Ring, CORKMEET event coordinator; Greg Swift, chief executive of the Dublin City Enterprise Board; Mark Richardson, MD of Instant Marketing and Marion Walsh, event coordinator at the announcement of CORKMEET DUBLIN 2011

MEET DUBLIN 2011 has seen a significant increase in interest among national businesses this year. The number and calibre of businessess that are registering is hugely promising and means that the trading and networking dynamic this year will be very exciting.”

In addition to the minimum of 50 Cork companies participating, up to 250 Dublin companies will get the chance to meet with other Dublin companies attending, as part of the day-long programme of pre-scheduled, one-to-one meetings at

Croke Park.

Chief executive of the Dublin City Enterprise Board, Greg Swift said: “Small businesses are the life-blood of any city. The CORKMEET DUBLIN 2011 event is suited to innovative SME’s looking to trade or partner with relevant companies from the Dublin and Cork regions. Dublin is delighted to partner with CORKMEET 2011 in hosting the event to strengthen enterprise links between Cork and Dublin.”

Marion Walshe, event coordinator in Dublin said: “In the current climate, busi-

ness networking has never been more important for SME’s to identify opportunities and build lasting relationships. What sets CORKMEET DUBLIN 2011 apart from other networking events, is that delegates can pre-schedule meetings with the businesses they are most interested in meeting.”

Registration for CORKMEET DUBLIN 2011 is now open and delegates are encouraged to visit www. corkmeet.ie to register and download information about this year’s exciting business networking event.

13 October 2011 GAZETTE 19

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs

NISSAN PUMPING UP THE JUKE:

Jeep has a new 4x4 entry-level Compass model on the market, powered by a 2.2 litre turbo-diesel engine that’s a shade noisy. The entry price is €30,000

Fine tuning the Compass The Fiat-owned Jeep brand is making inroads in the off-road market with the new entry-level Compass, as MICHAEL MORONEY discovered TOOK the Jeep Compass for the week of the recent farming festival that is the National Ploughing Championships. Unlike the typical conditions, this year the weather was kind, with little rainfall.

That meant that, even though I was prepared, I didn’t need to put the Jeep Compass to the ultimate test.

There was never a hint of unease as the Compass drove by the rear of the stands each day. So, do we really need a 4x4 all of the time, or would the likes of the 4x2 or twowheel drive Compass do

I

SPECS: JEEP COMPASS 2.2 CRD 4X2 Top speed: 201 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 11.5 secs Economy: 18.5 km/litre (5.4l/100km) CO2 emissions: 161g/km Road Tax Band: D (€104) Price: €30,000 approx

the trick in most conditions?

The test car was a twowheel drive version of the Compass. It came with a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine that feels trucky, and so I expected it to deliver the full 4x4 abil-

ity. The engine is 136bhp, which is lower in power and torque than the Toyota RAV4 and Land Rover Freelander competition.

The Compass seemed sluggish, noisy and a little harsh in terms of driving.

It was not as smooth as some of the competition from an ease-of-driving point of view. I found the clutch pedal a shade heavy in everyday shoes, which I drove in half of the time.

The six-speed manual gearbox is a little chunky to use and not as smooth as the RAV4 or Freelander.

Despite this, the Compass engine delivered good acceleration and economy levels. While I didn’t achieve the rated economy level of 16.4 km/litre (6.1l/100km or 46.3mpg), I was operating in that ballpark over a long driving test of 1,250km.

This two-wheel drive Jeep has allowed the CO2 levels to be seen as more acceptable at 161g/ km. That’s 12g/km lower than the four-wheel drive version, and helps to keep the price competitive as well as the economy and running costs.

The Compass fuel tank is also on the small size,

just 51 litres, when the likes of the Freelander has a 68-litre capacity. And the smaller tank made for more regular fuel stops and reduced the driving range, leading one to feel that the economy was poor even if it wasn’t.

In an overall sense there is a solid feel to the Compass. The only trouble for me was that the solid feel also translated into a solid ride, not always comfortable on rural roads. Granted, the suspension has been tweaked under Fiat guidance, but it’s still not as smooth and forgiving as

the competition.

The Compass comes with lots of features, including climate control, four electric windows, keyless entry and sunscreen glass. The seats are solid and easily adjustable. The standard safety equipment deal includes stability control (ESC), roll mitigation, brake traction control, hill-holder, six airbags.

The Compass is competitive for its sector with an entry price of €30,000.

Add about €3,000 for the 4x4 version and you get genuine Jeep that you need if we get another snow-filled winter.

Motorists begin to get ready for the Big Chill of 2011 MOTORISTS are preparing for the worst this winter, and are stocking up on products designed to battle the big chill.

Following predictions for another long, harsh winter for Ireland from longrange forecasters, car accessories and leisure retailers Halfords has increased its range of severe weather merchandise and has launched snow chains, salt and shovels earlier than ever.

The company has increased its stock of ice scrapers by 123% on last year, bought in 143% more night before de-

icer, 109% more Decosol Power de-icer and has even included a new minus 20 degrees readymix screenwash – able to cope with the severest frosts.

According to Irishweatheronline. com, which is displaying a, “severe winter weather warning for 2011-2012” message: “The advisory has been issued following one of the coldest winters experienced in Ireland and Britain for more than 45 years.”

Last year, hundreds of motorists and homeowners were stranded as tem-

peratures plummeted and snow and ice left some roads impassable. Following the recent weather predictions, Halfords responded swiftly by adding 18 extra products to their winter range and stocking up early on severe weather items, while other retailers are already selling snow boots and winter clothes.

Halfords Ireland country manager, Carl Ezard said: “Many people were caught out by the sudden, freezing weather conditions last year. Now we have had these early, long-range forecasts, we

want to ensure that our 24 stores in the Republic have as many products as possible that could help people prepare for everything winter might throw at us.”

The Road Safety Authority has issued advice to remove all snow from vehicles: “Snow left on the roof will become loose and can drop onto the windscreen during braking, thereby causing sudden and severe restriction to your vision. It can also fall off during your drive and cause injury to pedestrians or a reflex action by another driver.”

NISSAN could soon be offering a new, more powerful version of the Juke called the Juke-R, with the claim of being the first ever super crossover.

With the addition of flared wheel arches, revised front and rear bumpers, plus a unique split rear wing, this is no standard crossover.

The car is not for production and is a one-off, road-legal concept car, developed

by Nissan and built by leading motorsports outfit RML. Under the bonnet is a 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6 engine adopted directly from Nissan’s flagship supercar. But don’t expect to see one on a road near you and, if you do, stay well away!

20 GAZETTE 13 October 2011

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: HALLOWEEN CAN BE A DANGEROUS AND STRESSFUL TIME FOR YOUR PET

Fireworks and bangers drive your pets nuts A L L OW E E N is a fun time for humans, but, for pets, it can be a nightmare!

Ok, as a pet parent you know and understand your companion best but, in my experience of working with animals, noise and unaccustomed activity will certainly

H

gazette

photos

.com

www.

Some animals are teased and even tortured over the Halloween periods

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prove a menace to any dog or cat, especially if the source is something he’s unable to control.

Yep, it’s true, loud whistles and bangs, a kaleidoscope of flashing lights from fireworks and continuous knocking at the door by little trick or treaters wearing strange costumes can make this holiday a traumatic time for all animals, particularly cats, dogs, bunnies, cows and horses.

We’ve all heard the stories of those who will tease, torment or even torture animals over the Halloween period. In fact, last year in the run-up to the festival, I was called to the scene of one of the most disturbing and horrifying cases of cruelty I’ve ever witnessed– the rescue of a beautiful terrier who was subjected to an unnecessary act of violence when three heartless, mindless thugs forced her to eat a banger. When we arrived at the scene, so horrific were the poor animal’s injuries, our veterinary team had no option but to humanely euthanise her on the spot.

So, with that in mind, I’ve put together some hints and tips that should help readers keep their pets safe this Halloween.

It’s never a good idea to leave your pet in the garden all day and I strongly advise against it, but most especially so at Halloween. I would recommend that as soon as it starts to get dark, (around 4.30pm) keep your pet indoors.

Animals have a heightened sense of smell, sight and sound, and once they

--------------------------

‘It’s never a good idea to leave your pet in the garden all day, but most especially so at Halloween.

I would recommend that as soon as it starts to get dark, keep your pet indoors. ’ --------------------------

hear a loud bang, will often panic, become disorientated, bolt out the door and be unable to find their way home. (Make sure your pet is micro-chipped because, in the event they get lost, you have a greater chance of being reunited with them).

When indoors, keep your pet in an interior room – i.e. a bathroom, utility room or cloakroom and draw the blinds. Keep a radio or TV on in order to distract from loud bangs and leave a light on so that flashing lights aren’t as noticeable.

If your pet looks for reassurance due to being scared of loud noises, please don’t do this! I know it goes against our humane nature, but it’s best to carry on in a matter-of-fact manner, as if nothing is out of the ordinary, as your pet may feed off your anxiety, making the situation worse.

Sweets and chocolates are not good for pets; in fact, chocolate is toxic to animals so please don’t feed them unsuitable treats. Sweet paper, cellophane and tin foil are also a choking hazard if swallowed.

Take care around lit pumpkins and candles as curious pets may knock them over, running the risk of being burned and/ or causing a house fire.

You may think placing a pair of fluffy ears on your dog is great craic but it’s likely he won’t.

So, unless your pet loves being dressed up, don’t put him in a costume as this can add to his stress and anxiety. Some costumes can often become so tight there’s a danger your pet’s circulation may be cut off; low-lying parts on costumes can cause pets to trip or dangly bits can be ingested resulting in possible choking.

Remember, large animals living in nearby fields, such as cows and horses hate scary noises. So, if you’re planning on having a firework display, and have secured your own companion pets, please be sure to take other animals into consideration.

Ta Oiche Shamhna ag teacht, so talk to your local vet about different medications on offer to help ease your pet’s distress.

For more information, log on to our website at www.dspca.ie or email me at Miriam.kerins@ dspca.ie

13 October 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Declan Curtis, general manager, Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown

Destined for a life in the hotel game!

DECLAN Curtis is the general manager of the Carlton Hotel in Blanchardstown. By his own admission, he was always destined to work in hospitality. This week, he spoke to the Gazette about his life and career.

“I was born on Carlow in 197………! One of nine children, I have four brothers and four sisters located all over the world, some as far away as New Zealand and China.

“I was always destined to work in a catering or hospitality role. I learned to cook from my mother (when cooking for a family of our size, she needed an assistant). I can remember having to stand on a chair in order to reach the kitchen counter to peel potatoes or slice and place the apples in the tarts we made when I was a child.

“I could cook Shepherd’s pie while still needing to stand on a chair to reach the hob.

My brother and I converted our garage into a preparation kitchen where we made tea cakes and sold them to local shops – he was the delivery driver and I was the baker. We also made jam, raspberry was our specialty.”

It wasn’t all early entrepreneurialism for Declan, there was also the small issue of sport. “I played every sport I could fit in to my day, Gaelic football, rugby, hurling, soccer, squash, tennis and rowing. I tried it all. I had a real passion for both rugby and GAA and, to this day, these are the codes

Declan Curtis, Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown

that I follow the most. I represented Carlow underage in Gaelic football and rugby. I love sport and I still run and bike a lot. I take part in adventure racing and triathlons and I will run the Dublin City marathon again later this year.

“I studied hotel and catering for four years in Galway (GMIT ). I worked in Germany for a year in the Black Forest as part of my

college course. It was the steepest learning curve I ever encountered. It taught me to be organised, flexible and gave me the ability to think on my feet.

“I am married to Linda, who is also in the hotel business, and I have two daughters – aged five and three – both of whom want to work in hotels!

“When I holiday at home, it’s the west of Ireland, Galway or Mayo (in a Carlton Hotel of course). I have strong Galway connections and Mayo appeals to my adventurous side.

“If I go abroad, Italy is my destination of choice; the weather, the food, the style, the focus on the family, again, the food. I love the Amalfi coast, it is a completely different world with something for everyone.

“Hospitality and food are two cornerstones in the Carlton philosophy and they are two things that are very close to my heart. I believe hospitality is something that every guest is entitled to no matter what part of the hotel they are using. I believe that at every opportunity we should extend hospitality in whatever we do. Working for Carlton gives me an opportunity to extend that hospitality every day. I get to work with food every day, which ignites passion and energy into every working day and allows for expression and creativity.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS WORKING IN THE NORTH Q – I am going to work in the North of Ireland and will be staying there five days a week.

What are the tax implications and do I have to make any return to the Revenue in Ireland?

Thanks. Terry – Sutton D 13 A - There are many people working in the North but domiciled in Ireland. Unfortunately, many do not make returns to the Revenue as they should do.

You MUST pay income tax in the country where you earn your income but your ultimate responsibility in paying tax on your employment is with the country where you live.

This means that you MUST submit an annual selfassessment return in your country of residence each year. As a resident of the Irish Republic working in the north, you will: Pay tax directly to HM Revenue and Customs in the north Submit an annual Self-Assessment return to the Irish Revenue Commissioners Then be eligible for Trans-border Workers Relief Trans-border Workers Relief can be claimed by persons who are resident in the Republic of Ireland, commute daily/weekly to their place of work in the other jurisdiction and pay tax in Northern Ireland (NI) on the income from that employment.

Basically, this allows a frontier worker to have a credit or relief in respect of the income tax that

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

A: Bigger! I wanted to play professional rugby, even though it was only an amateur game when I played

Q: What was your first job?

A: I sorted bottles in a local guest house at the age of 12, but I had difficulty in getting paid, so I began baking cakes for local shops and picking fruit

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: I think everything I earned was paid cash-in-hand until I was about 18

Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed?

A: Yes, I did. It had a knock-on effect on future choices I made and it’s an awful predicament to be in

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: Summer, 2011 Q: What is the best thing about your job?

is paid in the country of employment. Revenue Commissioners then take into account the tax

A: I work in a positive, progressive environment, where the team I work with make the difference to the guests who are in my care

Q: Have you ever achieved anything that you once thought you could not pull off?

A: I began to take part in event running about 12 months ago, and to keep me motivated I set a target to complete my first triathlon; I thought I would never achieve it

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

A: Everything before 10 am. I’m not a morning person... at all

Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be?

A: A set of questions from a

looking forward to?

A: Ireland’s journey in the Rugby World Cup

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: Most of my music is modern and high-tempo as I only use my I pod for training.

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Simple Italian food served in Italy with family and friends

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

A: This question took the most time but I think it would be Enda Kenny

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Food in general, food shops

local newspaper

like delis and kitchen suppliers

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Rugby, hurling and football

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: 12 – and I need every pair

Q: What sport can you play?

A: I run and bike a lot Q: Recently, what were you

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: I stayed in a hotel near Paris

Airport when my onward flight was delayed for my honeymoon. The airline checked me into a hotel with my wife, the room had a single bed, with a pull-out bed underneath. It was not exactly the most romantic start to a honeymoon. Between the delay, the accommodation and the airline’s attitude, it was the worst customer service I have ever experienced

paid in Northern Ireland and, depending on the

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: The Amalfi coast in Italy

ance contributions to the UK authorities. If you

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Chocolate dessert tester, I

tion all social insurance contributions you have

have a very sweet tooth.

alongside any PRSI contributions, soon to be

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

A: Nothing, I have no plans

incorporated into the Universal Social Charge,

to retire. I would like to think that I would always be involved with the hospitality business in some format. I enjoy what I do and I would hate to think that I would have to stop someday

tax rates, you may only have a marginal amount to pay or receive back by way of a tax refund.

You must apply for a National Insurance number BEFORE starting work in Northern Ireland, otherwise your tax and National Insurance contributions will not be recorded. National Insurance Numbers are issued by the UK Social Security Agency and can be applied for at any local Jobs and Benefits Office.

If you are employed in Northern Ireland, you do not have to pay PRSI. You make National Insurwish to claim social welfare benefits now or in the future, the authorities will take into considerapaid. That means National Insurance contributions paid in Northern Ireland will be considered

paid in the south.

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 13 October 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Spoilt for choice this Bank Holiday Start planning your October Bank Holiday weekend away now GoHop.ie have some hot offers to the following destinations: Iceland from €617

Includes: Return direct flights from Dublin to Iceland, 4 nights in 4* Loftleider hotel on B&B basis, return airport transfers and taxes as well as an experienced tour leader. www.gohop.ie/3330/Cheap-Holidays/IcelandAutumn-Breaks/holiday.html Tunisia from €649 pps

Includes: Return flights with in-flight meal and 20kg baggage allowance, 7 nights in a 5* hotel on a B&B basis, transfers and rep service. www.gohop.ie/3165/Cheap-Holidays/TunisiaLuxury-For-Less/holiday.html New York from €799pps

Includes: Return direct flights from Dublin to NYC, airline taxes, hotel accommodation based on 2 sharing on a room-only basis. www.gohop.ie/3429/American-Holidays/NewYork-Winter-Autumn-Breaks/holiday.html Offers are subject to availability.

GoHop.ie offers the lowest airfares on all airlines out of Ireland. GoHop.ie is fully bonded and licensed with the IATA. For more information visit www.gohop.ie

Book your winter ski holiday with Crystal Ski for great deals €100 off all bookings: applicable for all new package bookings made with minimum of two sharing for all departure dates except December 31, 2011 / February 11 / March 31, 2012. Discount is per booking and not per person. €200 off “double discount for Christmas”: Make a new booking to any Ski destination for departure on the December 24 and avail of €200 off the total price of your booking 2 for 1 lift Pass in Andorra: Valid for all new bookings to Andorra, selected properties only travelling 2nd - 22nd January, 2012 Buy 1 lift pass AND get one half price at Val D’Isere & Tignes: valid for all new bookings with departure of January 21/ March 17 and 24, 2012 to Val d’Isere and for departures to Tignes December 17, 2011 / January 14 and 21/ March 17 and 24, 2012.

Offers shown are applicable for new bookings only. Terms and conditions apply. Limited availability. For more details, call 01 4331080 or visit www.crystalski.ie.

COME hail, rain or shine this Bank Holiday weekend, there is an abundance of festivals and events taking place all over the country.

The only problem is deciding which ones to go to!

For full details, listings and amazing offers on accommodation, visit www.discoverireland. ie, but, for now, here are some of our favourites to get you started.

Sligo Live is back with a bang this year with a stellar line-up of live music over six days (October 26–31), all located in warm, intimate venues dotted around the beautiful town of Sligo.

Visitors will be treated to performances from living legend Elvis Costello and BRIT award-winner, KT Tunstall.

Support acts come in the form of Scottish band Admiral Follow, upbeat reggae stars – Barley Mob, Hayseed Dixie

and the beautiful Rachel Semanni and Band.

Treat yourself to a cultural feast in Wexford, with two of Ireland’s finest festivals. The Wexford Fringe Festival and Opera Festival (October 20– November 6) transform the town into a melting pot of cultural delights with a heady mix of exhibitions, music, dance, theatre, tours, markets, fairs and sports as well as superb opera concerts and recitals.

Jazz Jazz things up a bit with a visit to Cork for the annual Guinness Cork Jazz Festival and let yourself loose at any of over 90 pubs, clubs and hotels that play host to non–stop music, master classes and fringe events.

With over 90% of the entertainment being free, there really is no excuse not to get involved!

Make a meal out of it

dsfgsdfgsdfgd

Colourful performances at the Virginia Pumpkin festival (left), and Cork gets in the

at the Savour Kilkenny Food Festival (October 27–31). Indulge at the free open-air food market on the plaza and a design yard where only the best in local produce

will be found. While you’re there, rediscover your childhood (and your competitive streak!) at the Irish Conker Championship (October 30).

Blow those cobwebs

away with a walking weekend in some of the most beautiful scenery that Ireland has to offer.

The Westport October Bank Holiday Walking Weekend takes in the

It’s ferry travel, but not as we know it! Stena Line

Passengers will soon be able to relax at Stena Line’s Nordic Spa

IT’S ferry travel, but not as we know it. Stena Line has just confirmed that its two new Superfast vessels, which will be introduced on the company’s new Cairnryan to Belfast route in November, will have a Nordic Spa on board to offer passengers a totally unique travel experience.

Stena Superfast VII and Superfast VIII will be the largest ferries ever to sail between Scotland and Northern Ireland and are currently undergoing extensive upgrades in Poland by specialist cruise ship outfitters.

When complete the ships will be the first on the Irish Sea to offer passengers the opportunity to relax and indulge in a Pure Nordic Spa during the two-hour, 15-minute crossing.

The spa will contain a sauna and jacuzzi which will be exclusively available to Stena Plus and Premium fare passengers.

“We have established a reputation for providing a very high level of customer service so the prospect of offering our customers the opportunity to unwind in a Pure Nordic Spa at sea has

13 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs... TravelBriefs...

Things to entertain you in Northen Ireland STUCK for something to do? If so, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) has put together a list of exciting things to do in Northern Ireland this month. For more details on these and other events, Callsave 1850 230 230, visit Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s Information Office at Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 or click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/ events

Armagh Autumn/Winter Fashion & Beauty Event, Armagh City Hotel, Co. Armagh, October 14

This annual event is a showcase of the best of Armagh’s fashion and beauty, with a sensational catwalk, local designers, boutique shops and accessory stores, ensuring a night not to be missed.

Belfast Festival at Queen’s, various locations, Belfast, October 14–30

Audiences and artists from around the world converge on Belfast for 16 days of Ireland’s biggest international arts festival. groove with the annual Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, above

rugged beauty of the Mayo Mountains as well as Connacht’s highest peak – Mweelrea, while the Footfalls Wicklow Walking Festival explores the beauty of the garden

of Ireland and includes a range of walks suited to varying abilities.

A storybook full of new memories are just waiting to be made this October Bank Holiday,

so why not book now and treat yourself to the Bank Holiday of a lifetime. For more details and inspiration for your trip, log on to www.discoverireland.ie.

On the Mammal Trail, Lough Navar Forest, Co. Fermanagh, October 15

Join the staff to search for clues and hear the sounds of red squirrels and red deer that live in the forest.

A performer of the Cirque Eloize

Apple Day, Ballance House, Crumlin, Co. Antrim, October 15

of circus arts and urban dance, breakdance, hip-hop and more.

A great day out with crafts, food stalls, children’s entertainment and a celebration of the traditional varieties of apple.

Seapark Fireworks & Family Fun, Seapark Recreation Ground, Holywood, Co. Down, October 22

Tyrone Farmers’ Market, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone, October 15

A market offering a range of food produced on local farms including seasonal products and home-baked produce as well as local craft items and a selection of fresh fish.

Cirque Eloize, Grand Opera House, Belfast, October 19 –22

Cirque Eloize’s brand new creation positively crackles with daring and modernity. A blend

Bring the family along to enjoy a children’s fun fair, live music by ‘The Jukes’, delicious refreshments and a themed fireworks display.

Ghosts and Gourds Weekend, Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, Co. Down, October 22–23

Carve a pumpkin, follow the ghost trail and hear a scary story while watching your little ones transformed with scary face painting. Family Hallowe’en fun for all.

introduces luxurious spa facilities ---------------------------------

‘We plan to make the facility available to out Stena Plus customers and are confident that it will enhance our service’ ---------------------------------

really got our staff excited about giving our customers an even better travel experience,” said Stena Line Route Director Paul Grant.

“We plan to make the facility available to our Stena Plus customers and are confident that it will enhance our premium service offering even further.

Although the new Superfast ships will have a crossing time of just 2hr 15mins, our customers will still have enough time to relax and unwind and enjoy their journey even more than before.

“We are always looking at innovative ideas to help improve our offering to customers to ensure that their journey with us is a truly enjoyable experi-

ence in itself. The introduction of our Pure Nordic Spas is one such idea and one of a host of onboard facilities dedicated to leisure and business passengers,” he said.

Stena Line‘s new Cairnryan to Belfast service is scheduled to launch on November 21. The new Superfast vessels will make 12 crossings per day and are now available to book online at www. stenaline.ie.

Each of the ten-deck ships can carry up to 1,200 passengers, 660 cars or 110 freight units.

The spa will feature both a sauna and a Jacuzzi for passengers to indulge in

24 SWORDS GAZETTE 13 October 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Dance Celebration

Pavilion Theatre welcomes back the inimitable John O’Conor. Following on from the enormous success of his recital at the Pavilion last year, Ireland’s foremost concert pianist returns with a programme to inspire and delight.

October 16, 19:30. Prices €17 - €19.

SEAMUS ENNIS CULTURAL CENTRE 01 802 0898 Nick Kelly - See : Hear Legendary singer/songwriter and award-winning film maker Nick Kelly is bringing his unique new See:Hear show to The Centre.

It combines a live gig (accompanied by The Softly Swelling String Quartet); a screening of Nick’s three highly-acclaimed short films (including the recently Oscar-shortlisted “Shoe”); and an entertaining and insightful talk on the fascinating crossover between making music and making movies.

Friday, October 14, 8:30pm. Admission: €16.

THE HELIX 01 700 7000 Frank Vignola and Vinny Raniolo The third of The Helix concerts in The Six String Sessions sees performances by Frank Rignola and Vinny Raniola.

Ex Les Paul and David Grisman Band, both these guitar players are master tremelo pickers.

Sunday, October 16, 8:30pm. Tickets: TICKETS: €15/€12.50.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340

Faulty Towers -The Dining Experience Enter the snobbish world of manic Basil; his domineering wife, Sybil; and their hopeless languagechallenged waiter, Manuel.

Be one of the steady stream of bemused guests trying to make Manuel understand what it is you want. Asking for an ice bucket ends up with you being presented with a ‘nice bucket’. A simple procedure like opening a bottle of wine can become a huge drama. And, maybe, just maybe, in the middle of all these events, you might get some service, Faulty-style, of course.

October 18, 7:30. Admission: €45.

A Basket of Bennett Sandyford Little Theatre present their latest studio showA Basket of Bennett - featuring: A Woman of Letters, Bed Among The Lentils, A Visit From Miss Prothero; something not to be missed, a funny yet real portrayal of lives on the edge.

October 18 - 22, 8pm. Admission: €15/€12

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Egg

What really happens when you put all your eggs in one basket? Not always what you would expect it seems if this particular show is to be believed. Witness the madcap adventures of our unexpected heroes as they explore the humble egg and try to resolve age-old problems, such as which came first, the chicken or the egg?

Saturday, October 15, 1pm and 3pm. Tickets €5.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 The Hen Night Epiphany A week before the wedding of her dreams, a woman wonders if some secrets should never be kept no matter what the cost. The Hen Night Epiphany is a heart-lifting tale of five women who take to the countryside for a night of fun and laughter that leaves their lives turned upside down.

October 18 – 22 at 8pm. Admission: €20 and €16.

Faith Bernie struggles with her faith and is displeased with the feckless attitude of her only son, Joey. October 20 to 22 at 8.15pm. Admission: €10

Leads Kenny Wormald and Julianne Hough get footloose in a dance scene from the new movie

Kick off your shoes And your cynical frown as Craig Brewer reinvents Eighties’ classic guilty pleasure, Footloose, for a new generation IT SEEMS at the moment that there is a definite disrespect of anything resembling a classic movie, with the necessity for a “reboot” or “re-imagining” being far easier for producers and studios than, God forbid, actually coming up with original story ideas or models for future franchises.

With Sam Raimi’s Spiderman franchise not even cold before Columbia and Marvel felt the need to return to the same origin story AGAIN, with Andrew Gar field and Emma Stone in the leads, and local boy Colin Farell returning to Mars to reprise the role of Quaid in the Total Recall remake, there is a sense that really, nothing, nothing at all, is sacred.

Scare stories about the likelihood of remakes of Robocop, Evil Dead, and (for goodness sake,

nooooooooo...) Don’t Look Now, make you wonder what on earth is going on...

But there are times when the remake formula does come good - Scarface, The Thing, The Departed - it creates something special.

However, when what is being remade is regarded as something of an guilty pleasure, you wonder if it was wor th the effor t. In the case of Footloose, it seems that they have remade not only the movie, but the guilty pleasure aspect, too.

Like the 1984 original that starred Kevin Bacon, the premise is the same, with Ren MacCormack being dropped in small-town America (this time in the south, which allows for a country slant and southern hip-hop and R&B stylings to be dropped into proceedings), where puritanical

lawmakers have outlawed public dancing and loud music.

The cityboy is not one to shy away from a confrontation, and he starts in motion a chain of events that will revitalise the town, set it’s people free, and, of course, make the local preacher’s daughter fall for him.

Former dancer with J u s t i n T i m b e r l a ke , Kenny Wormald, steps into Kevin Bacon’s role with ease, and he is more than ably backed up by Miles Teller, who owns the role of Willard, Ren’s

sidekick and avowed non-dancer, previously played so memorably by the late Chris Penn in the original.

All very familiar to film fans and fans of the original, but there are enough subtle details and rougher edges that puts the 2011 incarnation slightly more in tune with the times than

the f luffier nature of the original.

Director Craig Brewer has previous

in the music-enriched movie world, having delivered Hustle and Flow in 2005, and he appears to have a genuine love of the original Footloose, which seeps into every frame.

Again, it is a guilty pleasure watching Footloose, and there is the added bonus of it having some of the original tunes from the first movie in place, thus appealing to it’s original audience, as well as updating it for 2011 sensibilities.

The same warm hear t and drama are present, and, for that, it stands perhaps alone as a remake that was wor th the effort. Let’s hope it’s a template that the movie re-makers will follow from now on...

13 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 25

GazetteFITNESS FITNESS

Brought to you by Derry Temple

PILATES: KEEP YOUR CORE STRONG TO STEER CLEAR OF BACK PAIN

Get in shape with the power of pilates PILATES is a low-impact workout with a history stretching back almost 100 years, since its development by Joseph Pilates in 1917.

More than 20 million people around the world currently practice it. Pilates is a unique system of exercises designed to improve strength, control and endurance of your core muscles. The core muscles of the body include your abdominals, pelvic floor and low back.

Pilates has seen an explosion of popularity in the last few years, and is now often prescribed by Physiotherapists to those suffering from back pain.

The reason for its growing popularity is due to the fact that it tackles an ever-increasing problem in our society.

Our modern-day living has resulted in increased hours spent sitting in front of the television, or at a desk in work or school, along with added time commuting to or from our jobs. This has caused an adverse effect on our posture.

Upper and lower cross syndromes are prevalent in today’s society and many people can be seen to suffer the effects to some degree. Being seat-

ed all day causes the hip flexor muscles to shorten, abdominals to weaken, lower back to tighten and hamstrings to become weak and overstretched.

This is known as lower cross syndrome, and while it is not necessarily a dangerous affliction, if left unchecked, it can lead to lower back pain.

Over time, the effects eventually work their way up the kinetic chain causing the same patterns of dysfunction in the upper body.

Upper cross syndrome mirrors the muscular effects of the lower body causing tight chest or pectoral muscles, a weak upper back and forward head posture often leading to chronic neck and shoulder pain.

Another factor that can cause low back pain, is pregnancy.

During pregnancy, the pelvic floor is put under large amounts of stress to hold and support the enlarged uterus and increasing size and weight of the growing baby. If not strong enough, the pelvic floor weakens and you can become susceptible to pelvic instability, low back pain and incontinence. A Course of Pilates to help rebalance the body after

--------------------------

‘Pilates has seen an explosion of popularity in the last few years and is now often prescribed for back pain’ --------------------------

pregnancy could save you from these uncomfortable side effects.

The core muscles, when weak or damaged, will very often encourage poor posture causing the spine

to arch and contributing to aches and pains in the lower back. To combat poor postural patterns, we need to strengthen those muscles that are weak and stretch the muscles that are tight. Pilates is a formulated plan; a series of exercises and stretches to counteract the daily stresses put on our body.

By exercising your core muscles through Pilates you will begin to restore joint mobility and flexibility to middle and lower back while also strengthening this region. This in turn will improve your posture and body shape.

By participating in a class,

you can expect to see a noticeable increase in muscular strength, flexibility and energy levels.

Derry Temple runs DT Fitness in Artane, Dublin 5, and specialises in helping people achieve their health and fitness goals.

He runs morning and evening classes in Pilates and Bootcamp. This month dtfitness is offering two-forone on its morning classes to all Gazette readers. Simply mention this article when bringing a friend along, and one of you can train for free!

Visit www.dtfitness.ie or email derry@dtfitness. ie for more details.

personal trainer and pilates instructor

GAZETTE

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 13 October 2011

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13 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

DESCENT DESCENT: Delayed canoe extravaganza sees top performances Page 29

DUBLIN MARATHON: NOMINATIONS SOUGHT FOR MEDAL RECOGNISING ACHIEVEMENT

Lord Mayor to honour 2011’s special athletes sport@gazettegroup.com

ORGANISERS of the National Lottery Dublin Marathon and the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Andrew Montague, are seeking nominations for the inaugural Lord Mayor’s Medal, which will be presented before the start of this year’s National Lottery Dublin Marathon on Monday, October 31.

T he Lord Mayor ’s

Medal was introduced earlier this year by the previous Lord Mayor, Gerry Breen, as a way for the Lord Mayor’s o f f i c e t o a c k n ow l edge the outstanding achievement of everyone who takes part in the Dublin marathon.

The specially-commissioned medal will be presented from this year onwards to an individual or individuals who are deemed to have either overcome incred-

ible odds to take part in the Dublin Marathon or have an unusual marathon story to tell.

Organisers are looking for nominations to be sent by email to marathon@whpr.ie before Wednesday, October 19.

Marvellous Martin Lord Mayor Gerr y Breen presented a special medal earlier this year to 2009 Dublin M a r a t h o n f i n i s h e r,

Former Dublin Mayor, Gerry Breen, presents the first Lord Mayor’s Medal to Martin Codyre

Martin Codyre, whose brother and friend pushed him around the 26.2 miles of the course.

Codyre was involved in a tragic accident in 2008 which left him paralysed for life and

needing 24-hour care.

Entry for this year’s Dublin Marathon closed on October 3, and a record entry of over 14,000 runners, joggers and walkers will take part this year.

This year marks not only the first year of sponsorship under the National Lottery banner, but also a return to live television for the first time in 20 years, with coverage starting

on RTE2 from 9.15am on October 31.

For further information on the Lord Mayor’s Medal, go to www. dublinmarathon.ie or w w w.facebook.com/ dublinmarathon.

28 SWORDS GAZETTE 13 October 2011

GazetteSport Sport

Academy players lift the Sam Maguire

Fingallians’ Under-11 girls with the All-Ireland and Leinster trophies

Pat Gilroy presents the Dublin squad

Sam on tour Maguire trophy at Fingallians INGALLIANS’ GAA last week hosted the Sam Maguire trophy and the whole Dublin squad as the cup makes its way around all of the clubs in the city in celebration of the All-Ireland success last month. On Friday night an estimated 1,700 people visited the club to view Sam. It also made a guest appearance at the club’s nursery on Saturday morning. There was a special thank you to Paul Flynn and Pat Gilroy who brought the whole Dublin Squad to the club, making it a very memorable occasion.

Fingallians’ Under-12s celebrate with the arrival of the trophy

F

The Under-16 girls were all smiles

Some of the Under-16 team with the trophy

13 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 29

in association with

A fine descent on Liffey weirs

FastSport

Local paddlers Peter Egan and Neil Fleming were the big winners at the rescheduled Liffey Descent that went ahead last weekend Sam and Kevin pop in to

LAST weekend, the 52 n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l Liffey Descent canoe races took place on the traditional course, starting at the K Club in Straffan, Co Kildare, and finishing at Trinity Boat Club, a distance of 17.5 miles.

The race had to be rescheduled from its original date of September 10 due to a shortage of water, plus maintenance being carried out on the ESB hydro station at Poolaphuca.

Almost 800 competitors entered the race, with entrants from South Africa, Australia, Spain, Denmark, Canada and, of course, the traditional big entr y from England, Wales and Scotland. A big Irish contingent made

for a very exciting day’s racing.

On a beautiful sunny Saturday the scene was set for the athletes all set to challenge the 11 weirs, one set of rapids

and, with over 50 crews it promised to be very competitive.

As the boats approached Straffan Weir, know n as the Beecher’s Brook of the

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‘This was our goal, to win the three K2 titles - the Liffey Descent, and the British and Irish championships - in one season.’

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and a 500-metre portage around the dam at Leixlip, where the athletes must exit the canoe and run 500 metres carrying thir boat before reentering the river below the dam.

The Senior Racing K2 class was the first start

Liffey Descent, the Irish crew of Peter Egan and Neil Fleming, the current British and Irish K2 champions, set a blistering place and were first dow n the weir, closely followed by the South African crew of Brett Irvine and

Peter Egan and Neil Fleming on their way to victory in the K2 class

Ken Murray, the British crew of O’Regan and Boyton, and another Irish crew, comprising Malcolm Banks and Jason Briody.

By Celbridge, Egan and Fleming had opened up a lead of 55 seconds with the chasing group still trying to keep in touch.

By L u c a n , i t w a s obvious that they were really powering down this tough course having increased their lead to over three minutes and were going all out to make it three championship victories in 2011.

The chasing group was now down to two crews, with Banks and Briody having difficulty at Cromers Weir.

Safely over the next two big weirs, namely Wren’s Nest and Palmerston, victory was now in sight for Egan and Fleming and so, after 17.5 miles, they crossed the finish line at Trinity Boat Club in one of the fastest times for this course - 1hr 49mins 10secs - 5mins 55secs ahead of second-place crew O’Regan and Boyton, with Irvine and Murray taking third place.

Egan and Fleming were absolutely delighted with their victory, stating: “This was our goal, to win the three K2 titles in one season.”

The pair will compete at the World Marathon championships in Singapore on October 23 and 24.

T he K1 class saw Gary Mawer, winner of this race on numerous occasions looking for another victory. Stiff opposition from Dermot Hudson and Stuart West was on the cards.

Hudson showed he meant business, leading over Straffan Weir, with Mawer and West taking a safer shoot.

These three athletes broke away from the rest of the field and Mawer, with his vast experience, showed he still is the man to beat, coming home in first position in a time of 1hr 58mins 25secs with Dermot Hudson second and Stuart West in third.

In the Master K1 Deaglan O’Drisceoil won gold adding to his seasons achievements having won the Sella Descent in Spain in August.

In the Junior K1, Sean McCarthy won his second junior title from Matt Burke and Iomhar Mac Giollaphradaig.

The Senior Wild Water Class was won by Adam Sweeney, while the junior Wild Water class was won by Aisling Smith.

Full results can be found on the Canoeing Ireland website.

wish Paddy a happy 98th STARS of Erin GAA Club were celebrating the contribution of a very special clubman last week when Paddy Walsh turned 98 years old.

Paddy has worked tirelessly for the club over the last seven decades, and club members of all different age groups turned out to wish him a very happy birthday at the celebrations that took place in the Step Inn. Paddy had the added surprise of senior Dublin footballer, Kevin McManamon, and the Sam Maguire trophy dropping in to wish him a happy birthday.

Croke Park celebrate year of success CROKE Park Community Liaison Officer Ger Dorgan was on hand recently to present to Mark Candon and Theresa McMahon, from ASESP Crinan Strand, a cheque for their annual festival, as the Community team outlined their successes over the last two years at a meeting at the stadium.

The President of

the GAA, Christy Cooney, thanked the community for their co-operation during the past season which, he said, had a fitting finale with Dublin winning the football final.

The Croke Park Community Fund has allocated €210,000 to 57 qualifying projects since 2009.

Following two local employment drives during the 2011 season, 81 additional local people were given seasonal employment at Croke Park events.

30 SWORDS GAZETTE 13 October 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: UNITED SUFFER BITTER CHAMPIONS LEAGUE EXIT

Portrane set for new era with new pitch PORTRANE hockey club chairman, Adrian Henchey, is looking forward to a new era for the club, with their Olympic standard water-based pitch almost set for action.

The pitch, in the Donabate Community Centre, has been three years in the making and will be the club’s new home, moving from its former home in St Ita’s. The club’s men’s first team have recently been promoted back up to division two of the Leinster leagues while a second team was introduced this term, too, and play in Division 7.

But the club is looking to the future and also caters for children from U-8 up to U-16 level with well over 100 kids taking part weekly.

Speaking about the new pitch, Henche said: “Without a doubt, this is a highlight and significant milestone for our club but the club remains fully committed to the proper coaching and development of all our players.”

Summerfest set for next weekend THE 2011 Tesco mobile SARI Summerfest, the largest intercultural soccer tournament in Ireland, is set to take part this year at the Garda and Camogie Sports Grounds, in Phoenix Park on September 10 and 11 from 11am to 5pm each day.

The Summerfest will also coinciude with the CONCERN kitefest, where kite flyers from around the world will display their kites and give kite workshops for children.

The two-day festival also includes a wide array of entertainment for all the family.

For more information, see www. facebook.com/sarireland.

Castleknock Celtic seeking ladies talent CASTLEKNOCK Celtic FC’s ladies and girls section are recruiting new talent to the cllub for the soccer season starting later this month.

If you were born in 1996 or earlier, visit the club’s website at www.castleknockceltic.com, and pass on your name and contact details in the How To Join section provided on the site.

The club are also looking to recruit girls born in 2001/2002 to play soccer in the DubliGirls Soccer League.

Peamount United were once again denied by second-half strikes by Paris St Germain in the second leg of their Champions League tie

Paris pain for Peamount UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Paris St Germain 3 Peamount United 0 (PSG win 5-0 on aggregate) sport@gazettegroup.com

PEAMOUNT United were undone by a clinical second-half showing from Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their UEFA Women’s Champions League last-32 tie at the Stade Charlety in Paris last week.

Despite going in scoreless at the break in the French capital, and holding faint hopes of a miraculous comeback following last week’s 2-0 defeat at Tallaght Stadium, the West Dublin

amateurs were hit with three superb second-half goals, and went out on a 5-0 aggregate scoreline.

Despite some early PSG pressure, the visitors had the first shot in anger of the game when Stephanie Roche fired straight at Veronique Pons on four minutes.

However, the home side looked intent on finishing the tie quickly and Kenza Dali fired just over, before Sinnott almost let Nora Coton-Pelagie in around the back and Jessica Houara went close with another effort.

Wendy McGlone was unable to control Aine O’Gorman’s looping

Swords support: Local fans line out for Leinster win LEINSTER supporters, Darragh and Mark Synnott and James Molphy, from Swords, were on the sidelines cheering on Leinster against Connacht at the RDS last week.

The match saw a win for the Blues, who came from 12 points down at half-time to register a 30-20 victory.

Three penalties and a Luke Fitzgerald try put Leinster back in the game as they held Connacht scoreless in the second half.

cross from the right as Peamount looked to capitalise on their attacks and, just before the before the break, Sara Lawlor was almost presented with an opening by the PSG defence.

However, the semi-professionals quickly rectified the mistake and crowded Lawlor and O’Gorman out, before Dali went close on the counter-attack at the other end.

Despite, making it to half-time scoreless and introducing Ireland Senior Women’s international Julie Ann-Russell at the break, the visitors were stunned by an exquisite opener within minutes.

Striker Nora-Coton Pelagie rocked Peamount at Tallaght Stadium with a deflected opener from distance in PSG’s original 2-0 win, but this time there was no touch as her 25-yard effort left goalkeeper Linda Meehan rooted to the spot.

Some neat interplay between substitute Russell and Roche saw the latter threaten with a long-range shot, but again it was straight at Pons in the Paris goal, and the home side went further ahead on 65.

Full-back Nonna Debonne cut in off the left wing on a blistering run and fired an unstop-

pable drive across Meehan’s goal and in off the far post.

The visitors did well to just keep PSG from adding even more as PSG’s superior fitness really started to tell and despite Pons’ quick dash off her line denying Aine O’Gorman a consolation from Lawlor’s through ball, a third goal was unavoidable.

It came with only minutes left on the clock and it was Dali who got the reward her threat all game deserved as she powered an effort beyond Meehan from close-range after good work down the right

by Houara.

13 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 31

in association with

HURLING: COMEBACK JUST NOT ENOUGH FOR SYL’S

CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS Thanks to all who contributed to

the championship semi-final. They

the visit of Sam to Swords last

have booked a place in the final in

week. The cup made a visit to all 13

Parnell Park on November 6 against

schools and over 6,000 pupils.

either Skerries or Naomh Olaf.

On Frida y night, an estimated

Wins also for the minor football-

1,700 people visited the Club to view

ers in the championship and also

Sam. It also made a guest appear-

the U-12 and U-14 girls.

ance at the nursery on Saturday morning.

The big opening of the club shop takes place next Saturday, Octo-

A special thank- you to Paul Flynn

ber 15 at 10am, with the new season

and Pat Gilroy, who brought the

of O’Neill club clothing collection

whole Dublin squad to the club,

available.

making it a very memorable occasion.

The Movember kick-of f par t y will take place in Fingallians GAA

Over 10,000 photographs were

Club on Sunday, October 30. The

taken by Kryan O’Brien on Friday.

Gala Moustache Show will be at the

The schools will receive a disc with

same venue on Saturday, Novem-

their pictures and the remaining

ber 23. Join the Fingallians’ Movem-

pictures can be ordered or col-

ber team by clicking below or find

lected next Saturday morning in

u s o n t h e Move m b e r we b s i t e ,

the club hall from 10 to 11.45am. Go

ie.movember.com/register.

raibh maith agat, Kryan.

Our Irish language group meets

Congratulations to Fins’ U-15

every Wednesday in the clubhouse

footballers who had a convincing

at 9pm. Open to everybody, regard-

2-11 to 0-06 win over St Maur’s in

less of how good/bad your Irish is.

St Sylvester’s were denied at the death in spite of an epic comeback against St Oliver Plunkett’s in the final

Saints miss out in dramatic final

FINGAL RAVENS

JUNIOR D HURLING FINAL

team who pla y Good Counsel at

St Sylvester’s St Oliver Plunkett’s

4-7 3-14

sport@gazettegroup.com

S T S Y LV E S T E R ’ S almost pulled off one of the most incredible comebacks but ended up just short, denied the Junior D hurling crown

by St Oliver Plunketts/ ER last Sunday in Parnell Park.

It ended a pair of fine runs for the Malahide men without a trophy to back up 2009’s epic Leinster junior championship win as the club’s inter side were felled recently in their semifinal.

Syls trailed at one stage by nine points but fought back to level matters with the closing ten minutes upon them.

But, just when they looked set to carr y the day, Plunketts dug deep to see Mick Doyle’s point and Shane Beecher’s goal swing

the momentum back the Ashtown club’s way.

It was a cruel end to a cracking contest that had started in nightmare fashion for Syl’s.

Plunkett’s hared into an imposing lead, building a tally of 1-5 through Mick Malone’s early goal with just a single point coming in response in the opening phases.

But Sylvester’s rallied to tighten up defensively with Graham Morris to the fore while scores from Kevin O’Flynn began the comeback in earnest.

He nabbed four while Colm O’Connor followed with a couple of goals to keep pace with Malone’s second major.

With Claud Scully and Kevin McLoughney also finding the net, it made for a rip-roaring tie as the momentum swung back and forth.

During Sylvester ’s ascendancy, the likes

of Andy Lestrange and Cormac Finn were outstanding to limit the damage further for the Navan Road men and it kept the game in the balance.

With Plunkett’s mix of youth and experience, they were tiring in parts but summoned one last effort to force the game back in their favour as Doyle got them back in front and Beecher netted with the last puck for the win.

It proved the club’s first ever junior championship win in their

history, capping a fine year that has seen them lose just once in 20 competitive outings to date with the possibility of adding to that tally in the league.

Three points from their final two outings will secure a final showdown in AHL7, too.

For Syl’s, it effectively ended their season on a low note as they have just one league outing to fulfil, a dead rubber against Ballyboden St Enda’s that will have little bearing on their league finish.

BEST of luck to our senior team

We are having an award night for

who play Ballyboden St Enda’s in a

our U-21s, who won the 2010 cham-

replay of the senior championship

pionship, and our ladies team who

this week in Parnell Park. The win-

won their 2010 league, on Sunday

ners play St Peregrine’s at 3.45pm

October 30, in Kettle’s Hotel. All

next Sunday in Parnell Park.

members are welcome to come

Also, best of luck to our junior 11am next Sunday morning in their last game in the league; a win will see them promoted to Division 4 next year.

along celebrate the success of these teams.

Committee meeting this Thursday at 8.30pm in Kettles Hotel.

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 1, 21, 25 and 31.

Our duck race and cross coun-

€20 to Alan Reilly, Larry Fay and

try challenge has been refixed for

Maura Norton. Next week’s jacpot

Sunday, October 30, at 2pm at Kin-

is now worh €2,613, please support

sella’s Bridge.

your club lotto each week.

ST FINIAN’S THE intermediate football team

The club would like to express our

play Scoil Ui Chonaill in the last six-

sympathy to Grace Murray and her

teen of the championship on Satur-

family on the sudden passing of her

day, October 15. Venue is Balgriffin

brother –in- law.

and throw –in is at 5pm. Extra-time

Fundraising: Bag-packing takes

if necessary. Let’s get the young

place in SuperValu, Boroimhe on

teams out to support.

Thursday from 6 to 9pm, Friday

We w i s h o u r G a e l i c 4Mo t h e r s team the best of luck as they take

from 6 to 9pm and Saturday from 11am to 6pm.

part in the national blitz in Naomh

Help will be needed on Saturday

Mearnog next Saturday. They have

afternoon from 1pm from parents

been training hard in the hall every

and mentors. Please forward your

Thursday night at 9pm with Paddy

name to Anne O’Connor at 087 610

Green.

9452 if you can assist.

Follow GazetteSport on Facebook and Twitter and at www.gazettegroup.com

ALL OF YOUR SWORDS SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

SAM ON TOUR: Maguire trophy and Dublin squad come to Fingallians P28

OCTOBER 13, 2011

DESCENT AT LAST Annual canoe event takes place P29

GazetteSPORT

Neale Fenn, here in his Tottenham Hotspur colours, will be part of the Swords Celtic LSL set-up this season

Swords Celtic sign former Spurs star Local side add big name to squad as League of Ireland winner Neale Fenn included in LSL Sunday Major panel STEPHEN FINDLATER swordssport@gazettegroup.com

SWORDS Celtic have pulled off the biggest signing in their history after securing the addition of former Tottenham man Neale Fenn last Tuesday night to their LSL Sunday Major panel.

The four-time League of Ireland winner has been out of the game since the end of the 2010 season when he was part of Shamrock Rovers’ League of Ireland title-winning panel.

But he is keen to get back playing after a year out in which he established his Just4Strikers school as he seeks to impart some of the lessons learned from his 18-year professional career.

During that time, he played with the likes of David Ginola and Teddy Sheringham and represented the Republic of Ireland at every underage level, including Brian Kerr’s U-20 side when they claimed third in the world.

He came to the League of Ireland via Waterford to Cork City where he won his first title

before claiming it twice more with Bohemians and then last season with Rovers in what looked to be his swansong.

But the connection to Swords came through club member Gareth Condon, who brought his son to one of Fenn’s coaching clinics and the old “itch” to play again came back “Gareth brought his son to one of the striker sessions that I run weekly; I got chatting to him and he asked if I was playing anymore. I said ‘Nah, I don’t have time’. We got talking from there,” he told GazetteSport on Tuesday night.

He was at the club’s Balheary base where he was running a session with a group of dedicated U-16s who have started the season in fine style.

Coaching remains his primary task and he will be getting involved regularly with the club on this basis but the addition to the playing fields should prove an additional attraction.

“I do love the coaching, so it’s meant I haven’t really missed playing that often. My last match was for Shamrock Rovers last October but I’m

starting to try and get back into it again.

“The setup here is brilliant, lovely size of club, not too far from where I live in Ashbourne. I haven’t seen a huge number of the young lads in actions but I know a lot of the players are on the NDSL squads, so there must be a good standard.”

Asked what he will bring to the club, he laughs: “I suppose I bring experience and that’s the main thing! There’s a fitness aspect to it and I do go to the gym but I enjoy playing football, that’s the main thing I love doing, and so why not combine the two and get my fitness up.

“So far, I haven’t really talked to anyone about ambitions. It’s all been about coaching here on Saturdays, running little clinics; I haven’t spoken at all about the playing side of things.

“I was in the masters for Tottenham in August but, apart from that, I haven’t kicked a ball in a competitive match. I’ve played little five-a-sides with friends but I’ve just been getting a bit of an itch.”