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March 1, 2012

THROWING HIS HAT IN THE RING: Mick dons gloves for charity See Page 3

All-new Central Mental Hospital on way I MIMI MURRAY

THE building of a new Central Mental Hospital, including Intellectual Disability and Child and Adolescent Forensic Mental Health Units, has been confirmed for Portrane

by Dr James Reilly, Minister for Health.

In a statement the Minister said: “Funding is included in the HSE Capital Plan to provide for planned infrastructural developments for the

National Forensic Mental Health Service.”

These include the development of a new, 120-bed hospital to replace the Central Mental Hospital, the development of a 10-bed Intellectual Disability Forensic Mental Health Unit, a 10-bed Child and Adolescent Forensic Mental Health Unit, and four regional Intensive Care Rehabilitation Units (ICRUs).

Full Story on Page 7

Model behaviour: At a gala dinner for Laura Brennan Trust MISS Ireland, Holly Carpenter, pic-

tured with Jane and Karl Carpenter, was on hand to host a recent gala dinner in the Grand Hotel Malahide in aid of The Laura Brennan Trust. The model worked tirelessly

all evening, posing for photographs with guests, modelling items for the auction and meeting all the young dancers who performed for those who attended.

Full Gallery on Page 8

2 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 March 2012

CHARGE Minister says he is satisfied with payment options

Elderly concerned over the payment of charges A LARGE number of queries about the payment of the household charge have come from elderly people living in the north Dublin area.

Brendan Ryan, Labour Party TD for Dublin North, has urged the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan, to include the post

office as a payment option for the controversial charge so groups such as the elderly can pay it more easily.

In response to a Parliamentary Question tabled by Deputy Ryan, Minister Hogan said he was satisfied that there is a “comprehensive suite of payment options” available to persons with a liability to pay

the household charge.

However, Deputy Ryan has received a large number of enquiries from older people and those who live in rural north County Dublin who either do not have internet access nor is it convenient for them to travel to their local authority office, upwards of 20 miles away.

“If this is a problem for north County Dublin then it must be an even greater problem in rural Ireland where the distances to local authority offices are even greater,” said Mr Ryan.

“I agree that the payment options online are very convenient for those with internet access. However, a large

number of older people and those who live in rural areas are frustrated at the lack of ‘bricks and mortar’ options available for them to pay the charge.

“Many people have phoned my office frustrated at their inability to be able to pay their household charge in their local post office, where they pay the

Over €10m in charges THE Household Charge office has confirmed that over €10 million has been paid by nearly 110,000 households across the country since the introduction of the €100 Household Charge on January 1.

Eighty percent of those who registered and paid the charge so far have paid online either in full or signed up to pay in four direct debit instalments of €25 using www. householdcharge.ie.

The remainder have paid at their local council cash office or by posting payment directly to the Household Charge office.

Householders have until March 31 to pay the €100 charge before penalties apply.

“The rate of compliance with this charge is broadly in line with what happened three years ago when the Non Principal Private Residence (NPPR) charge was introduced,” said David O’Connor, Fingal County Manager.

For further information, FAQs and payment options for payment of the household charge log on to www.householdcharge.ie or www.fingalcoco.ie.

rest of their household bills.

“I am disappointed the Minister did not seek to include the post office as a payment option as it would have been very convenient for a great many people. Also, I am sure it would have resulted in a higher number of registrations and payments at this point,” he said.

Donation: Flying high DUBLIN Airport Authority (DAA) staff raised a staggering €225,000 for their charity of the year, 3Ts – Turning the Tide of Suicide during 2011.

The donation to the 3Ts, is the single biggest sum ever raised

by DAA staff; over the past five years, DAA staff have raised more than €830,000 for five different worthy causes.

“I am very proud of my colleagues who have shown such an enormous amount of motivation, enthusiasm and energy to raise such a huge amount of money for this excellent cause,” said DAA deputy chief executive, Oliver Cussen.

COURTS: POTENTIAL LOSS OF REVENUE TO STATE WAS ESTIMATED AT €364,000

Man is found guilty of tax dodge on over €411k of tobacco A K U WA I T I w h o attempted to evade excise duty on a large cargo of flavoured tobacco, has been sentenced to two and a half years at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Adel Eid (30), imported by air freight Shisha molasses which had an estimated market value of €411,611 when customs duties, VAT and excise duties were added.

The freight was imported through a company called Pure Asia Limited.

The potential loss of revenue to the State was estimated at €364,000.

Eid, of Twyford Court, Twyford Avenue in London, pleaded guilty to evasion of excise on tobacco products on January 27, 2009 at Cloghran in Swords. He also pleaded guilty to evading

VAT and custom duty on the products.

Custom and Excise officer, Ursula O’Neill told prosecuting counsel, Colm O’Brian BL, a freight package arrived from Dubai to Dublin airport.

Suspicions arose as the labelling on the package detailed tobacco, molasses and glycerine.

“It appeared to be a water-type tobacco, or

Shisha, which is smoked through a water pipe,” explained Ms O’Neill.

“This product is not illegal.”

Ms O’Neill said the Shisha contained 48-61% tobacco and under regulations was classed as a tobacco product, liable to excise duty and VAT. Eid picked up the consignment from the airport and loaded it onto a lorry. A driver

was ordered to deliver the goods to commercial premises in nearby Cloghran.

Customs officers questioned Eid, who has no previous convictions, and he denied that the goods were tobacco products. He accepted he had not paid excise and duty on the products.

Dean Kelly BL , defending, said Eid,

who worked as a delivery driver in London up until his apprehension in 2011, made a catastrophic decision by evading duty.

Judge Martin Nolan commented “there was a substantial amount of tobacco products involved and there must be some level of deterrence for other parties attempting to smuggle products into Ireland”.

1 March 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 3

PEOPLE Raising some funds for Irish charities

Mick to don his gloves in name of charity I MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

A WHITE collar boxing event in the Wright Venue Swords, will see Mick Lynham, owner and director of Event and Music Management Company, ArenaLynx, don his gloves for charity this month.

Mick got involved in the event after a friend suggested they try to raise some funds for Irish charities.

“One day over the summer, one of my best mates, John Ennis, who is general manager of The Grafton Lounge, and I were having a chat about organising a football tournament, where all the venues/bars in Dublin City could put a team forward and play in a pub league.

“We had an idea of bringing some corporate sponsors on board to try to raise some vital funds for some of the Irish charities.

“At that stage I was training five days a week for a boxing fight I had coming up in October last. So after some brain-storming sessions we decided to run with a White Collar boxing tournament for charity.

“John is a very good boxer and has won many fights in Ireland and in Asia.

“I have been boxing full-time for the last year and a half, and come from a very martial arts background and have also won Irish and European titles in Taekwondo, where I was part of the World Taekwondo Fed-

eration for many years, so it was a natural fit for us.

“We named the event, The Dublin Pub Box. The event features managers, celebrities, barmen, DJs and promoters from all of Dublin’s top pubs and clubs, including Lillies, The Grafton Lounge, Porterhouse and The Church.

“I find boxing a great way to release the stresses out of the day. I go over to the club and work on the bags for an hour and then spar in the ring for a further hour. There is no training like boxing training,” Mick laughs.

“Training is going well.

I have put a lot of work in at training to build up my fitness.

“We all work on conditioning where we condition our bodies to take punches to the body and face and then there is a big element of training that goes on schooling where we focus on key punches, combinations, footwork, defence.

“I have put myself on a strict protein diet and have cut out alcohol since New Year’s Eve. All the fighters have put in such a great effort for this valuable cause so we really are pushing ourselves to be in the best shape possible for fight night.

“I train six days a week.

I take Friday off to rest, as it is important that rest is part of your training schedule. I spend three days in my club in Donaghmeda where I share a ring with Irish Singer Songw riter, Damien Dempsey.

“Getting hit by someone like Damien really

FastNews Deals for Mother’s Day EMBODY in Swords is offering some great deals for Mother’s Day. A two-hour spa package with champagne and chocolates costs just €49.

For mother and daughter it costs €95. To purchase vouchers call Anna 01 8079765.

Planning granted PLANNING permission has been granted to The Epilepsy Care Foundation for the development of allotments at Mountgorry, Swords Road, Malahide.

The development will consist of 300, 100 sq m allotments, an upgrade to the entrance, entrance road and gate; a 12m x 3.6m portacabin type structure for clubhouse, disabled toilets and storage.

Owner and director of Event and Music Management Company, ArenaLynx, Mick Lynham

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‘I personally would rather not know who I am fighting, as it’s best to expect the unexpected for a fight in my opinion’ --------------------------------------------------------

is great preparation for conditioning your body to take punches from strong individuals.

“I also do a further three days in our training camp in Drimnagh with Irish professional boxer Noel O’Brian and head coach Steven O’Rourke, who was one of the coache’s to former WBA Champion, Ricky Hatton.

“At the minute, I am unsure who I will be up against.

“One thing I do know is it will be someone of the same height, weight and skillset as me. To be honest, I am not worried who I will be fighting and that’s not confidence or cockiness.

“The main thing is to stay focused and have a rough plan of what you want to do in the ring.

No matter who you are put up against in the ring, you still have to do your job so it really lies with you on the night.

“I personally would rather not know who I am fighting, as its best to expect the unexpected for a fight in my opinion.”

After training Mick says he likes to relax by listening to music. I do like to read a lot also and I enjoy going out for dinner. I do like going out around Dublin to gigs.

“I would encourage anyone free on Thursday, March 29, 2012 to come down to the Wright Venue Swords to support the ISPCC and ChildLine.”

Tickets are €20 and will be available on the door on the night or via The Grafton Lounge Dublin. Doors are 8pm.

4 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 March 2012

CHARITY: HEALTH CLUBS FOR WOMEN IN ANNUAL SUPPORT INITIATIVE

EVENT Volunteer Information-Cheese and Wine evening

Curves weighs in over food aid CURVES’ clubs in north County Dublin are encouraging women in the area to show their philanthropic strength by participating in the 13th annual Curves’ Food Drive.

In addition to the rewarding opportunity for community engagement, the club is offering compelling incentives for both existing and potential members who participate.

From March 1 to 18, Curves of Malahide, Baldoyle, Artane and Fairview will collect non-perishable items and monetary donations for St Vincent de Paul.

The goal, according to Carmel, of Curves in Malahide, is for the community to come together to help people in need.

“At the core of our business is the message that women are stronger when they rally together, and that is the point we hope to bring home with our food drive,” she said.

“We want to show our community just how powerful the generosity of our members can be.”

According to Carmel, members who donate a bag of groceries, or make a donation during the month of March, can join Curves for free. Curves

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‘Each year, Curves clubs collectively donate millions of pounds of food to feed the hungry’ --------------------------

will waive the cost to join – a saving of up to €229.

Each year, Curves’ clubs collectively donate millions of pounds of food to feed the hungry. Over the past five years, a total of nearly 54 million kg of food has been collected and distributed to local communities all over the world through the Curves Food Drive.

Last year, Curves’ clubs donated an average 1,400 pounds of food, per club.

Carmel added: “We hope women in north County Dublin will come together and participate in this initiative.

“Even if you’re not thinking about joining a gym, you can still drop off your donations. There are so many people here in our own community who need our help right now.”

For further information about Curves, contact Curves on 1800 932 800, or see www.curves.ie.

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Top: Tom and Breege O’Neill with Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind staff. Above left: Delta. Above right: Guide Dogs, Sarge and Unice

Irish Guide Dogs for Blind seek volunteers I MIMI MURRAY

swords@gazettegroup.com

IRISH Guide Dogs for the Blind are calling people from North County Dublin and surrounding areas to “Get Going for Guide Dogs” and volunteer in 2012.

The Balbriggan North County Dublin Branch of Guide Dogs are hosting a Volunteer Information-Cheese and Wine evening in the Martello Room, Bracken Court Hotel, Balbriggan, from 8pm to 10pm on Friday March 2, which is sponsored by Supervalu Balbriggan, to highlight the many ways volunteers can get involved in support of

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their work locally.

Guide dog owners, Tom and Breege O’Neill from Balbriggan, have supported Irish Guide Dogs for over 30 years already.

They know first-hand the life-changing impact a guide dog makes and have worked tirelessly for many years to help fundraise so that more people can avail of the organisation’s services.

“Without fundraising volunteers, Breege and I would not have the mobility and freedom we currently enjoy through our guide dogs. In the last few years, Irish Guide Dogs has needed to do more with fewer resources.

Fundraising in particular

is an area needing additional support. We’re hoping that the information evenings will highlight the value of the organisation’s work and inspire more people to support,” Tom said.

Nick Palmer, director of Kingston Technology International, has been an active fundraiser for guide dogs for over ten years, part of which was in England with UK Guide Dogs.

He says it’s his love of dogs that got him involved initially. An active volunteer for the charity’s Balbriggan North County Dublin Branch, Nick says: “I like to describe Irish Guide Dogs as a ‘feel good’ charity because you get to see

‘We’re hoping that the information evenings will highlight the value of the organisation’s work’ --------------------------

the positive outcomes of your efforts as a volunteer. I can’t help but feel good when I see a guide dog in action. Knowing that I have helped another person enjoy an improved quality of life is extremely rewarding and inspires

me to keep doing more.”

Irish Guide Dogs are on a national drive to find volunteers willing and able to help.

Over 80% of the organisation’s income is raised through voluntary donations and all services for people living with sight loss or autism are offered free of charge.

Call 085 766 3107, or email balbrigganguidedogs@gmail.com, to discuss volunteering opportunities with you.

The evening is open to individuals, clubs or businesses interested in supporting Guide Dogs.

There will also be a free raffle for everyone in attendance.

1 March 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 5

6 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 March 2012

SPORT A place at Celtic FC’s Youth Academy is up for grabs

Football’s Next Star is searching for you!

A new RTE youth show is looking for talented football-mad lads for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, writes MIMI MURRAY FOR any lad who has fancied following in the footsteps of Robbie Keane, Shay Given and Aidan McGeady, or who would love to play for legendary football club, Celtic FC, then listen up now!

Celtic manager, Neil Lennon, and his coaching team are coming to Ireland this month to hand-pick 10 talented, and very lucky, young footballers, from thousands of Irish hopefuls, to take part in the new RTE Young Peoples’ TV show, Football’s Next Star.

The programme, which will air on RTE Two this autumn, will feature 10 young footballers, who will battle it out for one coveted place at Celtic’s prestigious Youth Academy.

The trials are open to 16- and 17-year-old boys born on or between the dates of January 1, 1995 and March 3, 1996, and participants have to register in advance to take part.

The final 10 will travel to Glasgow, where they will face a month of intensive training at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

They will eat, sleep and breathe football, and get a real taste of what it is like to be a professional footballer – but only one can win a place at the Celtic Youth Academy.

Football’s Next Star is currently looking for interested contestants, so, for anyone who thinks they have what it takes to be Football’s Next Star, make sure to book a place at one of the upcoming football trials taking place.

They will be held in the

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‘Throughout the series, viewers will see the young footballers really develop their skills and start what is, hopefully, the beginning of a superstar career at Celtic FC’ --------------------------

Noleen Golding, producer, Tyrone Productions

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AUL Centre, Clonshaugh, north County Dublin on Saturday, March 3, and Sunday, March 4.

The trials will be overseen by coaching staff from the Celtic Youth Academy, and participants will be required to arrive with their kit and boots, ready to undertake a series of football tests.

Football’s Next Star is already a hit around the world, and has featured some of the biggest names in world football, including Jose Mourhino and Jamie Redknapp in the British version.

A stellar team is currently being lined up for the Irish production, which will be produced

by Tyrone Productions for RTE Young Peoples’ Programmes, and broadcast this autumn.

Noleen Golding, who will produce the show for Tyrone Productions, is very excited about the show, which is for boys

Celtic FC’s manager, Neil Lennon (above) could soon be cheering on the young winner of the new television show, Football’s Next Star

only.

She says: “There are so many football-mad young boys in Ireland who dream of life-changing opportunities such as Football’s Next Star.

“We are really looking forward to the roadshows and seeing what kind of

talent will come forward to become the next big Irish football star.

“Throughout the series, viewers will see the young footballers really develop their skills and start what is, hopefully, the beginning of a superstar career at Celtic FC.”

Between 40 and 50 contestants will be shortlisted from the trials and they will go on to participate in the next stage of the competition, which will be held at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, where Celtic’s manager, Neil Lennon, will make the

final selection of ten talented young players.

These ten lads will live together and, over a fourweek period, be challenged physically and emotionally, both on and off the pitch.

In each episode, Celtic’s top coaches will make

th tough but necessary the decision to end one boy’s de Celtic dream, as they cut C a young player from the team, ultimately leaving te only three contestants to on battle it out in the final ba episode. ep Throughout the competition, the boys will pe have the opportunity to ha win spot prizes, includw ing master classes with in some of football’s biggest so stars, and a trip abroad to st play top foreign teams, as pl our youngsters get a real taste of what the life of a real professional must be like.

To register, email football@tyroneproductions. ie, or call 01 889 4970.

It’s also very important to check out www.rte. ie/trte for full terms and conditions.

1 March 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 7

PEOPLE Comedian Frank Carson passes away after illness

Tributes are paid to former Mayor of Balbriggan TRIBUTES have been flooding in for Belfast-born comedian Frank Carson, who passed away last week. What many people don’t know is that the raucous Northern Irishman spent two terms as Mayor of Balbriggan.

Brendan Ryan, Labour Party TD for Dublin North, paid tribute to Carson who died after a battle with illness. Frank Carson was famous for his infectious humour and catchphrase: “It’s the way I tell ‘em”.

Carson held a strong affection for Balbriggan and after spending his honeymoon there, he moved to the town in 1950 and served as the town’s Lord Mayor on two occasions. In an interview conducted a couple of years ago Frank said of Balbriggan: “I would love the roundabout to be called Carson’s Round-about. Or I would even like a Carson’s Square there - that would be my life complete.”

Deputy Ryan said: “I had the pleasure of spending time with

Frank Carson in Balbriggan and experiencing his wonderful wit and mastery of joke telling. He will be sorely missed. May he rest in peace.”

Balbriggan Tow n Council opened a Book of Condolence for Carson, with the Cathaoirleach, Grainne Maguire, first to sign it followed by Cllrs Monica Harford, Frank Snowe and May McKeon.

BBC Northern Ireland was also there to do a live link at 6.30pm on the Newsline programme.

OH BALBRIGGAN, BY FRANK CARSON There’s a wee spot in Ireland It’s right by the sea They call it Balbriggan But it’s heaven to me.

The locals are friendly They’re helpful and kind You may leave Balbriggan But your heart stays behind Chorus: Oh Balbriggan lovely Balbriggan Jewel by the sea

Though I’ve done some roaming I’d rather be home in Balbriggan by the sea.

Now I want you to go there It won’t prove me wrong Just a few miles from Dublin It doesn’t take long It’s a journey believe me That you won’t take in vain Once you’re been to

THIS stunning picture of Justin Bieber emerging on stage at the O2 has won local man and staff photographer at The Irish Independent, Steve Humphreys, third prize in the Press Photographers Association of Ireland arts and entertainment section.

PROJECT: NEW 120-BED HOSPITAL TO REPLACE OLD CENTRAL MENTAL HOSPITAL

New Central Mental Hospital is confirmed by Minister THE BUILDING of a new Central Mental Hospital, the Intellectual Disability and Child and Adolescent Forensic Mental Health Units at Portrane has been confirmed by Dr James Reilly, Minister for Health this week.

In a statement, the Minister said: “Funding is included in the HSE Capital Plan to provide for planned infrastructural developments for the

National Forensic Mental Health Service.”

These include the development of a new 120-bed hospital to replace the Central Mental Hospital (CMH), the development of a 10-bed Intellectual Disability Forensic Mental Health Unit, a 10-bed Child and Adolescent Forensic Mental Health Unit, as well as four regional Intensive Care Rehabilitation Units (ICRUs).

The HSE has sought

There’s an 18-hole golf course And a beautiful strand Where you see courting couples there Stroll hand in hand If you feel like a rest And partake of a jar There’s McCormack’s John D’s And the old Harbour Bar.

Jail for drug smuggler

Bieber Fever: Local snapper honoured at award show

I MIMI MURRAY

Balbriggan You’ll go back again

expressions of interest for the design team for this project and it is hoped that work on the design will commence in the coming months.

Minister Reilly welcomed the planned project and stated that he was pleased to advise that: “It is envisaged that construction will start in 2014 and the facility will be completed and operational by 2016.”

This week, Fianna Fail Senator Darragh O’Brien welcomed the commit-

ment the Minister has given to the hospital.

“This is extremely good news for Portrane and is an extension of the commitment given by the previous government.

“Portrane has a long and distinguished record of caring for people with intellectual disabilities and I am very glad to see that that will continue.

“I previously worked with Minister John Moloney on engaging closely with the community in

Portrane and Donabate. I think there has been some slippage with this community contact over the past year and I would like to see a renewed commitment from the Minister and the Government to listen to the views of the community in advance of these projects being constructed.

“The community was very clear in recent years that these developments will be supported but there is a very strong feel-

ing that there is a need for a permanent Garda presence and Garda station for Donabate/Portrane and better transport, including more buses and improved road infrastructure.

“I hope the Minister and the Department of Health will engage with residents on these and other issues.

It is extremely important that the community is on board and listened to as these important projects progress,” he said.

A SOUTH African who smuggled €70,000 worth of cocaine through Dublin Airport has been sentenced to five years.

Paolo Ferreria Gomes De Lacerda (33) of Molesworth Mews, Cookstown in Tyrone, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of 932 grams of cocaine at Dublin Airport on July 7, 2011.

He told gardai he was desperate for money as he had been laid off from his job as a meat packer and was being offered €2,000 to take the drugs from Spain through Dublin Airport.

Garda Karen McCoy told prosecution counsel, Colm O’Briain BL, De Lacerda arrived on a flight from Madrid and was stopped by customs officers.

Two packages wrapped in white material and cling film were discovered in his luggage and De Larceda admitted someone in Madrid packed the cocaine for him to transport to another person in Belfast.

He said he was not a drug user and had worked in Northern Ireland for three years. Six months prior to the offence he had lost his job and was approached by a person in Belfast who asked him to bring the drugs to Dublin Airport.

Judge Martin Nolan noted that De Lacerda had “no proprietary interest in the drugs and desperation led him to try and transport drugs into the country”.

8 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 March 2012

EVENT Enjoying a gala dinner in the Grand Hotel Malahide

Claire Canning and Deirdre Guiden

Host Miss Ireland, Holly Carpenter, with Nuala and Paul Brennan. Picture: Una Williams

Full-house for fundraiser Maria Conway and Majella McCarthy

ISS Ireland, Holly Carpenter, was on hand to host a recent gala dinner in the Grand Hotel Malahide in aid of The Laura Brennan Trust.

The event was a huge success, attracting a full-house.

Entertainment on the night was provided by two Champion Dance Crews from Backstreet Dance Studios, Genesis and Li’l Swagger, who brought the house

Denise Brennan and Derek Alford

Ann and Shane Brennan

M

Darlene Wigham, Marie Hurley and Noreen Chambers

down.

A hilarious game of Heads and Tails featuring all 200-plus guests had everyone in stitches and the music provided by Eclipse had the room hopping until the early hours. The evening raised in total â‚Ź15,000, which will go a long way to ensuring the fund is available to those who may be in need of support

Jenny McGrath, Lauren Grennell and Sarah Murphy

1 March 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 9

THEATRE Players present classic Christie tale

SIGNING: PATRICIA SCANLON

Novelist to sign copies of latest offering The play will feature a collection of other eccentric characters

N OV E L I S T P a t r i cia Scanlon will be in Manor books this Friday to sign copies of her latest offering, Love and Marriage.

Betty Reddy as Miss Marple

Murder mystery Murder is Announced, a novel by the mother of crime fiction, Agatha Christie, will be staged

by St Andrew’s Players this March.

In this classic thriller, everyone falls under suspicion and the full skills of Miss Marple and Inspector Craddock are needed to reach the final denouement.

St Andrew’s Players’ production takes place from March 1 to 3 in the Portmarnock Sports and Lei-

A

sure Centre, at 8pm each evening.

The Players are currently rehearsing intensively, to make sure the show is up to their usual high standard. The cast includes Ger Memery as Inspector Craddock and Betty Reddy as Miss Marples.

Tickets for the show are €12, or €10 for concessions. Groups of six people or more can get a group rate of €8. They are available at 086 816 4846.

Ger Memery as Inspector Craddock

Fans She will be in the store on Church Road from 11am on March 2 and is sure to attract a huge crowd of avid fans.

Patricia Scanlan was born in Dublin, and lives here still.

During the time when she worked as a librarian, she started to write, and is now a full-time author and one of Ireland’s best-selling writers.

10 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 March 2012

TAKE TWO After 6 Networking at the Crowne Plaza Hotel

Joelene Devine, Tom Lynch and Nicola McArthur

Vincent O’Neill, Siobhan Moore and Colin Moore

Jeud Ennis and Gayle Gregan

Boosting business HIS week we take another look at the Chamber’s first Business After 6 Networking Evening of 2012. Chamber President, Siobhan Moore, welcomed the many members and their guests to the event which was held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Santry. Over 70 business men and women attended. The event was a great opportunity to Meet – Learn – Connect – Network with like-minded business people to increase business contacts and receive

T

Myles Flood, Eugene Haines, Avril Donnelly and Cormac Sarsfield

referrals to grow and improve business.

In the coming year, the Chamber will be organising monthly Business After 6 Networking Evenings as well as a monthly Business Breakfast which started with Dermot O’Leary, chief economist with Goodbody Stockbrokers on Tuesday, February 28 in the Radisson Blu Hotel Dublin Airport. Other speakers are set to include the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Leo Varadkar TD.

Niall Butterly, Jacynta Mullen and Marc Lynch

Don Early

Joanne Moody

1 March 2012 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 1 March 2012

EVENT City gets ready for pageantry, culture, carnivals and

Exploring science of fun A host of colourful characters were on hand in Dublin this week to launch our national holiday celebrations A HOST of colourful characters were on hand in Dublin this week to launch St Patrick’s Festival 2012, which will take place from March 16 to 19.

Drawing inspiration from Dublin’s status as The City of Science, the Festival parade and ever-popular city Treasure Hunt are this year inspired by the how, what and why of science.

Celebrating the very best in Irish and international talent, Dublin will come alive with pageantry, culture, carnivals and free entertainment.

With an audience of over one million, Ireland’s leading pageant companies will animate a selection of science questions posed by children, such as “How is a rainbow formed?, What makes the weather change?, How is electricity made?’’ and each will present their imaginative, colourful, remarkable and thought-provoking creations on the streets of the capital during the festival parade.

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar said: “St. Patrick’s Festival is a fantastic showcase for Ireland and for Irish tourism, and a centre piece of our tourism calendar.

“This festival makes the most of the unique international profile of St Patrick’s Day. “There’s a great schedule of free events taking place over the four days of the festival with the very best of Irish and international talent.

“It will reinforce Ireland’s reputation as a friendly and fun destination for visitors.”

Susan Kirby, CEO of St Patrick’s Festival, feels the 2012 programme of events will have something for everyone: “Our St Patrick’s Festival is one of the largest artistic presentations of its

kind in the world and the atmosphere in the city is always electric.

“This year, we will be hosting some of the best events that the capital has ever seen, with something for all ages, nationalities and tastes and the majority are free!

“The collaboration with Dublin City of Science 2012 also links us to a year-long celebration and will open up the city in a whole new way for many people, with the parade in particular answering everyday questions in a colourful way.

“Above all, this is a national celebration and a chance for everyone to come along and enjoy all of the fun of the festival.”

In preparation for the big day, primary school children from across the country have also joined the fun, with discussions based around science questions in the classroom.

Responding with drawings, stories and video, a selection of their interpretations will be available to view on the festival website.

Everyone can take part by downloading the resource pack from the festival website, www. stpatricksfestival.ie, from March 1.

The How? What? and Why? resource pack explores child-centred answers to the questions being animated by the pageant companies.

Professor Patrick Cunningham, chief scientific adviser to the Government, feels the theme to the parade and treasure hunt is an exciting platform for science.

“What better way to demonstrate the reach of science into our everyday lives and culture than through Ireland’s national festival.

“We are delighted to be working with St Patrick’s Festival, combining science and creativity in a

Pictured are Emily Parkes, aged 5 (left), and Mia Parkes (right), aged 7 from Dunboyne, Co Meath and Jake Murron (centre), aged 3, with characters from the Artastic street troupe who will be appearing in this year’s parade, Moe Coakley (far left) and Emily Archer (far right) joined by Leo Varadkar, Minister of Transport, Tourism and Sport and Susan Kirby, CEO of St Patrick’s Festival

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

‘There’s a great schedule of free events taking place over the four days of the festival with the very best of Irish and international talent’ --------------------------------------------------------

new and exciting way,” he said.

This year’s jam-packed St Patrick’s Festival lineup aims to cement the world-class reputation of the Irish national holiday with four days and nights of celebration and entertainment, for young and old.

New initiatives have been added to this year’s festival, such as I Love

My City, a distinct celebration of Irish culture during the festival.

This special programme of unique, free Irish cultural events takes place in the beautiful surroundings of some of Ireland’s prestigious cultural institutions, venues and spaces in the Georgian Quarter from Merrion Square to Kildare Street.

Artists, performers and collectives, such as Donal Dineen, Dublin Laptop Orchestra, UNESCO City of Literature and many more, will perform on March 16 and 17.

I Love My City headline events will take place in The National Gallery, The National Museum, the RHA, The National Concert Hall, The National Library and Leinster House, while city-wide, cultural institutions and venues will also be offering a variety of activities and interesting events that are a must-see at Festival time.

The programme will also see an eclectic Trad

Stage in Meeting House Square, a busy outdoor music and street performance schedule and an Irish Craft Beer and Artisan Food Market in Custom House Quay.

On March 16, Dublin’s Creative Quarter (from Georges Arcade via Powerscourt Townhouse to South William Street) will be bustling with activity and the best of Irish design and making will be on show.

The full I Love My City programme will be launched on March 6, headline events are free but reserve spaces early to avoid disappointment, check www.stpatricksfes-

tival.ie for updates.

Other Festival favourites, such as the St Patrick’s Festival Ceili are back in the line-up for 2012.

Kicking off the festival in style on March 16, visitors will be immersed in Irish culture and craic at this outdoor celebration of traditional Irish dancing.

This popular event offers a unique and funfilled way to spend an afternoon dancing on the streets of Dublin.

Expert callers will lead the crowd through dances such as the Siege of Ennis, the Walls of Limerick and lots more.

1 March 2012 GAZETTE 13

free entertainment to run from March 16 to 19

for St Patrick’s Festival Emily, Jake and Mia take a closer look at what’s coming up at this year’s festival

Characters from the Artastic street troupe help to launch St Patrick’s Day Festival

14 GAZETTE 1 March 2012

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY FastBeauty Iron warning: Look out for signs of deficiency

A RECENT study by the Department of Health and Children has found that Irish women were twice as likely as men to have an iron intake below recommended levels.

The latest figures show that as many as 91% of women aged 16-64 do not get their recommended daily allowance of iron in their diets.

Staff at Lucan Village Pharmacy advise that iron is used to make haemoglobin, which carries energy around the body, and that symptoms of iron deficiency can include tiredness, poor concentration and dark circles under the eyes. If you require further information regarding iron supplements, consult your local pharmacy or doctor.

Chic event: At BT’s store BROWN Thomas’s French beauty experience, Vive la Beaute, is running until Sunday, March 4, celebrating Parisian beauty and style.

Exclusive product launches, bespoke themed events and fabulous gifts with purchases are adding to the stylish celebrations. For further information, see www.brownthomas.com.

by Laura Webb

Kiehl’s keeps skin healthy and youthful HE Kiehl’s brand has been on the market since 1851 and is renowned for its skincare products that give men and women healthier-looking skin.

Taking care of the skin is probably the most important daily routine a person should try to keep on top of, and with the

T

extensive skin care range at Kiehl’s, everything a person needs to keep skin healthy and revitalised is supplied under the one roof.

The brand’s latest product, Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution, is Kiehl’s first serum that promotes youthful clarity, while reducing the appearance of dark spots, discolourations, post-acne marks and hyper-pigmentation. It also helps to prevent the formation of new discolourations.

The product can be used all year round, and the good thing about it is, it’s suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin.

Key ingredients in the product include white birch extract. This is a sugar derived ingredient known to reduce the signs of photo-damage, while restoring hydration. Activated C, another key ingredient, works with white birch extract

to support and facilitate the appearance of discoloration correction.

Activated C also helps to prevent new forms of discolouration from appearing.

Youthful

Enhanced skin clarity, to even out skin tone and give a more youthful appearance, is provided by peony extract. This is a traditional Chinese medicinal antioxidant that also helps to protect against damage to the skin.

It’s recommended to use the product for at least eight weeks to see visible results. The useup rate of this product is 30-45 days.

Kiehl’s found that 87% of women clinically demonstrated more even skin tone, while 89% clinically demonstrated a reduction in dark spots. The recommended retail price for Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution is €41.

Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

The original familyrun Kiehl’s pharmacy was located in New York City in 1851. Using natural ingredients, its products are formulated to assure the highest quality of skin care for customers all over the world.

The extensive range of Kiehl’s products can be found at their dedicated stores in Wicklow Street, Dublin 2 and at Dundrum Town Centre.

To view their products online, log onto www. kiehls.co.uk.

Brushing up on those make-up skills BRUSHING up on DIY make-up is something many of us can raise our hands high and admit we need some help, and, thankfully, it is out there.

LA Creative Academy is Ireland’s leading training institution for make-up, fashion, beauty,

designing and photography.

Art studio

Based in Dublin’s Chatham Street, it is now running Sunday classes in make-up, fashion and beauty in their state-of-the-art studio.

Participants will learn the latest tips from international catwalks, and could be the next big catwalk or bridal make-up artist.

For further information on the Sunday course, call LA Creative Academy on 6751999 or visit www.lamakeupacademy.com

LOCALMATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZET TE CALL 60 10 240

1 March 2012 GAZETTE 15

16 GAZETTE 1 March 2012

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods THE ANNUAL guilt-fest that is Lent has kicked off, and seeing as you’re supposed to give up something that’s hard to do, I think I’ll give up paying for stuff. Actually, it’s easier than it sounds — if you look for free entertainment, you can find it.

One great example is Hard Rock Rising, which is taking place every Thursday until March 8 at The Hard Rock Cafe, Temple Bar. There is no cover charge so it’s basically a free gig as you’ll witness bands battling it out for the chance to perform at The Hard Rock Calling Festival in London’s Hyde Park.

The Saturday night at Hard Rock Calling will be headlined by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, and is set to be a great platform for the successful band to share the stage with one of the best in the business.

And they’ve made it this far, so you can be guaranteed decent music from the likes of Johnny and the Beep Beeps and Eazy Tiger.

For more information, log on to www. hardrock.com and search for the Dublin location.

The Australian Pink Floyd played three shows at The Olympia last week, and they didn’t disappoint. Okay, you didn’t think you were looking at David Gilmour or Roger Waters but they sure did a good impression of sounding like them. They may have been singing someone else’s songs but they sure were playing like they wrote them.

If you missed Australian Pink Floyd, then be sure to catch the splinter group, Brit Floyd, at The O2 on May 4. They played a blinder at The Grand Canal Theatre last year and return to the bigger venue, apparently with the infamous Floyd inflatables. I’ve High Hopes!

Listen to Dee Woods from Radio Nova every weeknight from 7pm to 12am on 100.3FM

Pink Floyd’s The Wall in concert

Monsters of rock: Local band take stage at RDS show DUNDRUM band, Cry Monster Cry, were certainly not drying their eyes last weekend when they were asked to play the Hot Press 2FM stage at the RDS Music Show.

The band, who are set to release their debut EP, The Fallen, in May, were one of the top ten acts out of 600 who took part in a Hot Press competition to get a showcase spot at the RDS. You can keep up with the band on Facebook and Myspace.

LOCAL TALENT: A GATHERING OF TALENT MAKING THEIR MARK

Songwriter Club united in creativity I ROB HEIGH

LOCAL supporters of the Dublin music scene, radio presenter Keith McLoughlin and singer Sinead McNally, are set to host the next session of the The Songwriter Club on Saturday, March 10 at the Teachers’ Club, 36 Parnell Square West.

The idea for The Songwriter Club came about in late 2011 when Sinead and Keith spoke to each other about setting up a meet-up group for people involved in the music industry to bring them together to chat about all aspects of the industry, including songwriting, gigging, recording and promoting their music.

Sinead said: “The idea for the Songwriter Club came about in late 2011.

I wanted to be able to meet with people in the industry to chat informally about all things related to my work as a singer/songwriter.

“Although it’s so easy to connect and network with people across the internet and at gigs, I thought that a meetup group for us to meet face to face every cou-

Members of the Songwriter Club gather at the last meeting of the collective

ple of months would be very beneficial.

“The first-ever meeting was held at The Village on Wexford Street.

The club is now set up so that songw riters, musicians and professions connected to the industry can meet face to face to share information and advice and to discuss topics and issues of importance to us.”

After the success of the previous meetings,

the club has had to move to bigger premises for this next meeting to allow the number of people interested in attending a place in the conversation.

“There has been a lot of interest expressed from songw riters in Cork and Galway regarding a similar club being set up in those cities.

“It is hoped that over the next 12 months, there will be at least two

other locations in Ireland where The Songwriter Club will exist so that people who want to be part of the club don’t always have to travel to Dublin.

“There has also been a lot of interest expressed at the meetings that Songwriter Club gigs should be considered in which members of the club come together to perform at a suitable venue occasionally throughout the year.

“As you can see, there are lots of topics and issues to be addressed and we hope to cover as much as possible in the coming months,” said Sinead.

All musicians, and people involved in the music industry are welcome to attend, and the Songw riter Club posts its news its own Facebook page at w w w.facebook.com/ pages/The-SongwriterClub/228119757249977

1 March 2012 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: MICRO PIGS HAVE VERY SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS WHEN IT COMES TO CARE

This little piggy is not going to market THEY’RE mini-pigs with a massive price tag, and, although these gorgeous little porkers are not going to market, I’m concerned for their welfare. You see, now that the designer “handbag dog” phenomenon is soooo last month, these adorable, pint-sized creatures look set to become the latest fad.

Therefore, following a number of calls to the shelter, some of which I’ve taken personally from people asking such questions as: “Eh, do you know where I can get my hands on a micro-pig for my mate’s 18th birthday?” to: “Can I bring my micropig out in my handbag?”

My answer to both questions by the way is “No” and, er “Absolutely not.”

If you read on, you’ll

grown. However, as not every human is the same height, this is obviously difficult to judge.

A micro-pig has been bred over generations to be smaller than other species of pigs

understand why.

I’m going to outline a few guidelines, which I hope prospective micropig parents will take into account before they decide to purchase one of these animals and then find out, when it’s too late, that they are unable to provide for their well-

being and very specific requirements.

What is a micro-pig?

It is quite simply a pig that, over generations, has been bred to be smaller in adulthood than other species of pigs. They are usually described as being “knee-height” when fully

Can anyone own a micro-pig?

No. A pig is a farm animal. This means in accordance with the legal requirements; before you purchase your pig, the Depart of Agriculture Food and the Marine will need to be contacted in order that the local District Veterinary Office, (DVO), can arrange an inspection of the owner’s premises to establish suitability. You will then need to be registered as a “herd owner”. A herd owner is someone who has just one pig or several pigs. According to the Department’s guidelines,

“Only persons registered with the Department and issued with valid pig herd numbers are allowed to own or trade in pigs. This provision applies to anyone who wishes to own pigs, however few.”

Can I bring my pig out with me when I’m socialising?

No. You will need to contact the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine, and fill in a dispatch document to notify them of a pig movement.

So, if your pig becomes ill, how do you take him to see a vet if you don’t have a legal permit stating you’re a herd owner or a dispatch document giving you permission to move him? The vet will need to visit you, so do take into

account expensive, outof-hours, house calls.

This brings me to veterinary care.

Will my local vet be able to provide care for my pig?

Unlikely. Local vets are highly equipped and trained to deal with domestic pets like cats, dogs, rabbits, etc., When it comes to dealing with pigs, however, you will likely need a more specialised professional.

What is the average life span of the micro-pig?

Approximately 10 years, although some live until they are 25 to 30 years, and that’s a lot longer than a cat or a dog.

So, you see, pigs are wonderful, intelligent ani-

mals, but, sadly, they are often purchased by people who are not equipped with the proper knowledge or facilities required to care for them. Owning a pig takes skill, a proper budget, land and a good deal of time and understanding.

Also, as social animals, pigs require the company of other pigs and that means if you only purchase one, he is likely to become depressed.

Where can I obtain more information?

Check out www.agriculture.gov.ie and I would advise reading their Pig Welfare Requirements Booklet.

For more info log onto www.dspca.ie or email miriam.kerins@dspca.ie

18 GAZETTE 1 March 2012

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS

Edited by Cormac Curtis

RoadSigns Road Signs MERCEDESBENZ LET THEIR STARS SHINE: MERCEDES-BENZ have said that “all the stars will be out” this weekend, when members of their main dealer network are set to host a used car sale.

Recognising that March can be the best time for customers to source a top-quality used car, every Mercedes-Benz dealer in Ireland is remaining open from 9.00am until 6.00pm on each of the four days of the event, (12.00 noon – 4.00pm on Sunday).

All cars presented for sale will be covered by MercedesBenz’s own Star Select Approved used car warranty.

It is estimated that some 500 cars will be offered for sale over the four days of the event, from Thursday, March 1, until Sunday, March 4.

Mazda have rebuilt their award-winning Mazda5 from the ground up. The Sport version of the car comes with incredibly useful powered rear sliding doors, and an incredibly comfortable leather interior. Folding seats offer plenty of load capacity when needed

Changing expectations CORMAC CURTIS ccurtis@gazettegroup.com

XPECTATIONS have a way of really messing with your perspective.

I can’t tell you how many nights I was dragged kicking and screaming to some party or other, swearing blind that I was going to have a miserable night. Then, lo and behold, the night turns out to be a real humdinger – the kind against which you measure all other nights.

The question then remains, was it that good in the first place? Or did it simply surpass some pretty low expectations?

Well, I must admit that, for me, the Mazda5 was kind of like one of those nights.

On paper, there is not a whole lot to get excited about – family car, sevenseater, 1.6-litre diesel engine. Yawn.

T his car was first released to the public

E

SPECS: MAZDA5 SPORT Engine: 1.6L (115ps) diesel Transmission: 6-speed manual Economy: 5.2L/100km CO2 emissions: 138g Road Tax Band: B Price range: €25,495 €30,495 (model driven)

back in 2005, and Mazda gave it its very own classification – Compact Multi-Activity Vehicle, or C-MAV for short.

Don’t get me wrong, this car has been a success for Mazda, with over half a million sold worldwide, 175,000 of those here in Europe.

It has picked up no less than 37 automotive awards, and has consistently been voted one of Europe’s most reliable and safe vans.

Which begs the question, how come I wouldn’t recognise one if it jumped

up and waved its motoring awards in my face?

Well, even as a father who needs to ferr y around my kids, their friends, and bags of toys, bikes and sports gear, I wouldn’t really be too bothered about the look or image of the family car – I’m just interested, quite rightly, in the practicalities.

Which means I am also left feeling a little resentful when I am forced to buy a car I need instead of a car I want.

This is all a very drawn out way of saying that the latest incarnation of the Mazda5, well, surprised me.

I took a moment to consider the looks of the car, and, to be honest, I had to nod in approval – I may have even grinned a little.

Even in the original Mazda5, the designers went to some lengths to keep the sliding rear doors look as non-commercial as possible, by

keeping the rail they move on nicely hidden.

In the new model, Mazda’s award-wining Nagare-flow design elements have given the profile an attractive, sculpted “wind and wave” feel.

The model I tested boasted the Sport spec.

Among other features, it included attractive 17” alloys, air con, very efficient bluetooth connectivity (it hooked up to my iPhone a good deal more easily than a few premium saloons I have tested), cruise control, power rear sliding doors, rear spoiler, side skirts and front fog lights.

All this, and a very fuel efficient 1.6 litre diesel engine delivering a claimed 5.2L/100 miles, or 54mpg in old money.

Either way, that’s attractive fuel economy by any standards.

So, it sounds like the whole package, but I still wasn’t looking forward to driving it (those pesky expectations still hanging

around).

I was wrong to be so negative.

This fairly big tank had no problem moving when asked, and the six-speed gearbox was very well matched to the 1.6-litre diesel motor.

You’re never going to take any quick corners in this car (which begs the question, why do they call it the Sport model?), but it drives a hell of a lot better than I was expecting.

Add to this the leather trim, with very eyecatching red piping, well laid-out dash, strong air con with air vents that you can point anywhere, heated seats, arm rests, big rear view mirrors and even a reverse parking sensor – you really begin to see what all the fuss is about.

Mazda could have given the old model a nip, a tuck, and a few botox injections and jacked up the price – they did, after all, already have a winning

formula on their hands.

But in fairness, this car was rebuilt from the ground up, and you can feel it.

Of course the real litmus test is what my kids say.

My six-year-old said: “Papa, this is a very handy car.” Her younger sibling, after some thought came out with: “I love these doors,” and I’m forced to agree with both of them.

This is a terrific family car. It leaves you wanting nothing (apart from, perhaps, automatic transmission), but it has classleading extras, and acres of carry space, with the option of folding all the seats in case you ever need to move half of IKEA’s store room.

The electric sliding doors made me smile – and they really are useful, but I felt the boot should have a hatch option so you can just open the glass section; that would have made it that little bit more complete.

1 March 2012 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 1 March 2012

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS

Plug in to the appeal of electric vehicles

www.gazette group.com

All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

Edited by Cormac Curtis

LECTRIC vehicles are becoming a more regular sight on Dublin roads, and now you now can test-drive the Renault Fluence ZE saloon and Kangoo ZE mini van at Bill Cullen Liffey Valley to see if “electric” is up your street.

Robert Dunne is the Electric Vehicle (EV) ambassador for the South Dublin region, and is based at Bill Cullen Liffey Valley, where he is dedicated to the Renault range of electric vehicles.

His role is to help build awareness and assist customers in making informed choices about owning an EV. He says: “Renault has made EV attainable and affordable for everyone.

The first 2,000 customers who purchase an EV will have a free home wall box installed at their home or business, providing them with their own fuel station.

“Home charging is the preferred method of charging an electric car or van, and an overnight charge of six to eight hours will cost around €2, based on night rates.

“Renault believes that EVs should be affordable to all and, with the SEAI offering grants of up to €5,000 to purchase an EV, people are very interested in learning more,” “We are currently offering free extended test drives of the Kangoo ZE van and Fluence ZE, and I would definitely recommend that people who believe an EV vehicle may suit their lifestyle should drop in and have a drive.

“It’s an incredibly smooth driving experi-

E

Robert Dunne, Electric Vehicle (EV) ambassador, Bill Cullen Liffey Valley, is ready to advise everyone on whether “electric” is right for them, depending on their lifestyle, while (inset) Al Pacino is one of those already enjoying the EV experience

ence, and we can advise on costs and savings to be made by owning an EV, and also how to finance your EV,” says Dunne.

He has a long history with Renault, and started off his career at 12, washing and cleaning out cars as they arrived into the country. He joined CityGate Renault in 2006 as a sales consultant, before taking a year out in 2007 to travel the world.

In 2008, he returned and took up a position in Bill Cullen Motors Liffey Valley, before becoming an EV ambassador in 2011.

Dunne has taken part in a charity white-collar boxing fundraiser in aid of Crumlin Children’s Hospital, with Crumlin Boxing Gym, and, from this, he has developed a passion for the sport.

Benefits As an EV ambassador, he is faced with the challenge of informing customers on the benefits of the EV range, determining whether EV is the right fit for them, and demonstrating the vehicles.

A personal highlight for him was his trip to the Seville Motor Show last October, where he drove the full Renault ZE range for the first time.

The range is to be expanded later in 2012, when Renault will launch the Twizy – an urban twoseater quadricycle, and the ZOE – a stylish compact hatch.

Renault is the only manufacturer to introduce a range of electric vehicles from light commercial vans to passenger cars, and aims to be the leader in the field of electric vehicles.

1 March 2012 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Stephanie Sinnott, owner of Baby Body Fit

Finding her niche in the fitness industry BABY Body Fit was started in December, 2010, by Stephanie Sinnott, after she spent three years working in the fitness industry.

This week, Stephanie spoke to the Gazette about how she started her business. “I gave birth to my daughter in March, 2008, and while trying to lose that weight, I decided to learn more about fitness, and retrained as a fitness instructor and personal trainer.

“I quickly found my niche within the fitness industry. I decided to turn my passion for fitness and pregnancy into a career, and conceived Baby Body Fit. “Noticing the trend for pregnancy yoga and pilates, I saw a gap in the market, as there was a lack of a maternity exercise programmes available. I wanted to provide women with a safe and effective exercise routine for during and after their pregnancies,” she says.

Stephanie was keen to develop a wide-ranging and beneficial programme for her clients.

“In Baby Body Fit’s prenatal, Prepare classes, we combine light cardio work with strength and toning exercises. We

work on strengthening legs, arms, upper and lower back, along with core muscles and posture. The classes help to control excessive weight gain through light strength training, “In our post-natal, Regain classes, we use a mix of interval and circuit training, brisk walking and light jogging, and body-toning exercises to give you a fun, full body work-out. The beauty of this is that you can bring your little one in their buggy, saving you getting a babysitter! This has become a great social time for the mums, with lots of coffees had afterwards.

“We have also launched our ‘Maintain’ classes, which are held on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings. Maintain classes are open for females of all ages and all classes are suitable for all fitness levels.”

Baby Body Fit have classes running, or starting soon, in Dun Laoghaire, Cabinteely, Stepaside, Sandymount, Firhouse, Lucan, Phoenix Park and Swords.

To find out more, visit www.babybodyfit.ie.

Q: What was your first job?

A: Lounge girl in local pub.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: It was £12 for a seven-hour shift! I thought I was loaded!

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: I started the business in

Bank compliance and regulation requirements to ascertain this information, so relevant advice and recommendations can be given. Therefore age, family situation, income details, current commitments, future commitments ( e.g. did you know in a recent bank study that the cost of sending your child to third level education alone, excluding fees, exceeds € 42,000 per child ! ) your present rainy day fund (ideal to have between three to six months’ net annual income in a totally accessible account ) all count in making that decision where to invest that €10,000 ! So, let’s presume you are under 30, single, no commitments, no debt and you really do not need this money for two years… the two best rates going to print are: 1. Investec Bank – 18 months fixed account ( gross 6.85% but equivalent to 4.52% Annual Equivalent Rate ) 2. Permanent TSB – two years and two months (gross 9.5% but equivalent to 4.47% AER)

Stephanie Sinnott, owner of Baby Body Fit

April, 2011, and quit my job to build it in July, 2011.

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Working for myself and teaching the classes.

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

A: Although I love teaching the classes, I am slowly handing over most of mine to the other instructors.

Q: What sport do you follow?

websites, anything relevant to the business.

ing Tallafornia and My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding. Both hilarious!

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: Mainly indie rock – Interpol, Bloc Party, Arcade Fire, Oasis, Foo Fighters, Queens of the Stone Age, Joy Division, Nirvana, but I like almost everything except bubblegum pop.

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A – As the saying goes, how long is a piece of string ?

Find must be completed in accordance with Central

there’s no escaping that!

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

A: I’ve recently started watch-

touch it for two years. Pat – Cork St D 8

professional independent financial advisers, a Fact

A: Parenting and maternity

tlebells, home work-outs and weight training.

safest and best place to put it ? I don’t want to

know some of the background circumstances. For

A: I live with a soccer fanatic so Q: What sport can you play?

A: No sport, but I run, do ket-

Q – I have € 10,000 to put away. Where is the

With these type of requests, it is really important to

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

A: Actress.

INVESTING €10,000

Q: What was your last tweet/ status update?

A: Announcing the new franchise in Limerick, Clare and north Tipperary.

ing money frivolously?

A: Dundrum Town Centre! My family and friends say my car knows its own way there!

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: About 50.

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Scallops, black pudding and

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Being told that the bus

pea puree for starters, venison for main, and poached pears for dessert.

journey from Koh Samui to Singapore was only 16 hours.

It turned out to be 34 hours!

Q: Who would you like to have dinner with?

A: Kurt Cobain. Failing that,

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Seeing the Northern Lights.

Jillian Michaels.

The Money Doctor’s Tip of the Week CREDIT CARD DEBT If you cannot manage your credit card debt, have spent up to your limit, are easily tempted with the accessibility of a credit card limit, perhaps you should switch to a prepaid card. With the Money Doctor prepaid MasterCard 1. Government stamp duty is only €5 per annum ( normal visa card duty is €30 ) 2. Discounts abound ( e.g. Ryanair flights charge €12 when you use a Visa card – use your Money Doctor prepaid MasterCard and there is no charge ) 3. You can only spend what you lodge into the card – there is NO credit.

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Pilot! But I do love what I’m

Contact John with your money questions at

doing right now.

jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at

but I’d say Jedward represent the Under-15’s population.

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

A: Travel, staying in nice hotels,

www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the

Q: Where do you enjoy spend-

I’ve had enough hostels!

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

A: I would hope David Norris,

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZET TE CALL 60 10 240

Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

LOCAL

MATTERS

22 GAZETTE 1 March 2012

GazetteTTRAVEL Travel EXTRA Take a ‘Oui’ holiday to Disneyland DISNEYLAND Paris is celebrating its 20th anniversary and is offering some great deals, with free children’s places for the celebration party, starting from Sunday, April 1.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Disneyland Paris, Abbey Travel is delighted to offer up to 40% off Disneyland Paris hotel and park passes – plus, children under seven stay and play free.

Abbey Travel is offering family stopover packages starting from €85 per adult per night. The price is based on two adults and two children under seven staying for four nights in Disney’s Hotel Cheyenne, and five-day park tickets, for arrivals on selected dates from March 29 to November 7, with the sale ending on April 30.

This package excludes flights and transfers, and the offer is subject to availability, terms and conditions. To book, call Abbey Travel on 01 804 7160, or see www.abbeytravel.ie.

Money Doctor is the trading name of Providence Finance Services Limited and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

Family fun at the lodges in Fota Island Resort I CORMAC CURTIS

ID-TERM breaks take a little getting used to. They seem to just creep up on you, and they shouldn’t.

Especially, if like me, you already have two kids in school.

I really should have a clearer idea of when the holidays are – but I don’t.

The idea of taking two days off half-way through February just doesn’t have a very “mid-term” feel to me. In late January we’re still talking about the Christmas break we just enjoyed!

On top of all that, at this time of year, I like to

M

live in denial.

I especially like to pretend that there is nothing on the horizon that will actually cost me anything, as I desperately do what I can to balance the overdraft/credit union/credit card bill from the festive season.

But a mid-term is a midterm, so, at the beginning of February, along with every other family in the country, we tried to think of something fun to do with the kids for a couple of days.

The answer, as it so often does with my lot, involved a trip to Cork.

We tend to grab any opportunity to spend a little time in Cork with both hands – but one thing we hadn’t tried in Ireland’s “real capital” before was self-catering.

The Fota Island Resort was our destination for three nights in an incredibly well-appointed threebed holiday home.

I’m sorry… that’s an unfair understatement.

The self-catering houses at Fota Island Resort are stunning.

Ours looked like a show-home that was kitted out in the very best fixtures and fittings.

Leather furniture, big f lat-screen T V, spot-

Offer: Go wild with the family this Easter COME face-to-face in county Cork this

Easter mid-term to children aged 4-12)

April with free-roaming animals and

where they will be kept entertained with

birds, as kangaroos cross your path and

plenty of fun activities, including arts and

ring-tailed lemurs jump down from trees.

crafts, swimming, picnics and soccer.

Book an Easter family package at the

Hot chocolate and cookies in the Amber

five-star Fota Island Resort and enjoy

Lounge complete this family friendly

two nights luxury accommodation with

package, which is available from €268 per

breakfast each morning, an early bird

night for adjoining or interconnecting

dinner on one evening, an in-room movie

rooms, subject to availability.

and tickets to one of Ireland’s top ten visitor attractions, Fota Wildlife Park.

Back at the resort, mum and dad can

Fota Island Resort also includes Irish Open Championship golf courses and Academy, self-catering lodges, fitness

also head off to the spa for some R&R with

classes, and walking trails. There is sure

a treatment or time in the hydrotherapy

to be something every member of the

suite, while the kids go wild in the Cheetah

family will enjoy. For more, visit www.

Club kids’ camp (open every day of the

fotaisland.ie or call 021 488 3700.

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

‘It was a joy to settle in to such a warm and comfortable environment and plan our activities for the coming days’ --------------------------------------------------------

lessly clean double oven, microwave, fridge-freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, en-suites off each bedroom, downstairs toilet, heated towel rails all over – this place had everything, and tastefully decorated to boot.

Not only that - but guests can use the hotel’s fitness centre, including the all-important swimming pool.

The houses are tucked away, just off the long,

tree-lined drive that runs up to the main hotel.

It was a joy to settle in to such a warm and comfortable environment and plan our activities for the coming days – not forgetting an appointment in the hotel’s luxurious spa for a certain wife of mine.

Usually we would have a pretty good idea of the kind of facilities and activities available at a hotel like this, long before we get there. But,

this time we hadn’t got around to it. The result of this lack of planning was that we were pleasantly surprised to find one of the houses in among the holiday homes was specifically for a supervised Kids’ Camp.

Even after our first day of swimming, walking, and even a visit to a local jungle gym-style activity centre called Go Safari – our two little adventurers were only too keen to meet up with other kids for some arts and crafts and a movie at the free kids’ camp.

Once the movie was over, we strolled around to pick up the girls, who fell fast asleep as soon

1 March 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

FastTravel Celebrate St Patrick’s day in style – in lovely Malta JET off to Malta to celebrate St Patrick’s Day this year – with direct flights from Dublin and just over three hours away, Malta is a great destination for a weekend break, especially around Paddy’s Day. Spring has a lovely mild climate in Malta, and getting around the island is easy.

Malta will celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Irish style, which will see Irishmen and “honorary Irishmen” flock to their local Irish pubs to drink Guinness and listen to traditional Irish music.

Prices for accommodation only with Belleair are as low as €41 pppn in the 5-star Radisson Blu, St George’s Bay, B&B based on two people sharing.

Mercury Direct offers a stay in the 3-star Porto Azzurro, St Paul’s Bay, in a studio on B&B basis for three nights for €315.71 per person, including flights, transfers and luggage.

Concorde Travel offers excellent packages of direct flights plus a threenight stay in the 4-star Hotel Cavalieri, St Julian’s, based on two sharing standard room, B&B for €469 pp, including all taxes and charges.

There’s lots of information, and you can book accommodation to suit all tastes and pockets, on www.visitmalta.com, or visit your travel agent.

Becky and Sarah Curtis prepare for their visit to the Kids Camp and the Teddy Bear’s Picnic, left, as the all-important swimming pool awaits the arrival of a horde of fun-loving families

as they got back to the house.

This was the end of a pretty perfect family day.

Ordinarily, I would have been happier if I could have squeezed in some time at the hotel’s driving range – but seeing my better half practically float out of the beautiful spa following her Comfort Zone facial, I couldn’t complain.

It would be difficult not to feel relaxed at Fota Island Resort, such is the attention to detail and thought they put into a

family’s requirements requirements, but the spa really is the icing on the cake for a little destressing.

It features a full fitness suite, an indoor heated swimming pool and a superb hydrotherapy suite, home to Ireland’s only “walking river”, which is apparently renowned for assisting in healing sports and fatigue-related injuries. The spa is home to 18 spacious treatment rooms and offers over 60 treatments.

I know I said that this was a self-catering holi-

day, and we did have most of our meals in the house, but one morning we couldn’t resist popping in to the clubhouse to have breakfast served to us.

Receiving such charm and warmth from the staff, even when you arrive at a golf club with two excited little girls, really is a treat.

But we needn’t have worried, as there was a table with a few very excited Corkonians, one of whom had hit a holein-one on his morning round, and they were only too happy to share

the good news with everybody!

Families visiting the Fota Island Resort should make certain to visit the nearby Fota Island Wildlife Park – it is the kind of place that kids simply adore.

The only reason we didn’t pay a visit this time around, is because we had been lucky enough to spend time there late last year – and our two girls were having far too much fun with the other kids at the resort to even consider going anywhere else.

24 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 March 2012

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Macbeth

ONE of Shakespeare’s bloodiest plays will be brought to vivid life by the Icarus Theatre Collective, as the noble’s progressive lust for power gradually escalates in his bid to usurp the kingdom ... The award-winning British theatre company will bring their considerable skills to bear in an eclectic production, bringing the original verse to life in a number of imaginative ways. See Macbeth at 7.30pm on Monday, March 5 or at 10.30am on Tuesday, March 6, with tickets priced €12/€16.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Paddy Laughs - Heat 2 THE craic will be mighty – with a little luck and skill – thanks to the finalists taking part in Heat 2 of the Paddy Laughs comedy competition. It’s the next stage in the four-step contest, seeking to find and crown the best local comedian, with would-be comics, aged 18 and over, invited to come along and break a leg – or, better, some funny bones – with their very best (and worst) gags! Come along and enjoy Heat 2 at 8.05pm on Saturday, March 3, with admission priced at €5.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 885 2622 A Murder of Crows HANSEL and Gretel get in a flap with an exciting production for children aged eight and over. Based on the classic tale, actors/musicians will weave a gothic tale of two lost (but ultimately resourceful) children – but seen from the perspective of a chorus of raucous and rowdy crows, whose antics will delight children as they flap about. Wing your way over to the Civic Theatre for this lively play on Thursday, March 1 and Friday, March 2, with shows at 10am and 12.30pm. Admission costs €7.50, group rate.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 David O’Doherty THE shy and retiring founding member of Destiny’s Child, little-known inventor of the iPad, instantly recognisable star of 2Fast 2Furious, and 1990 East Leinster Under-14 triple jump bronze medallist, David Doherty takes time out from his remarkable global achievements to star at Draiocht with little more than his wit, a keyboard, anecdotes, and lots of experience from performing at comedy festivals around the world. Catch David at 8pm in Draiocht on Friday, March 2, with admission costing €16.

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Daniel Radcliffe tries to magic up a break away from Harry Potter as he stars in The Lady In Black; Natalie Portman returns in the re-released Star Wars: Episode 1, which has gained an extra dimension for its 3D release; and Liam Neeson wolfs down another tough-guy role in The Grey

Assorted servings This week, a look at some of the films on general release that may – or may not – deserve your consideration ...

KATE CROWLEY

FACED with a notexactly-thrilling rota of titles for your consideration, this week, I’m sorely tempted to crack open the emergency bottle of Mother’s Ruin – AKA gin – that clinks every so often at the back of my drawer where it hides behind unwanted Adam Sandler and Jennifer Anniston DVDs – any of which make excellent coffee coasters, I can exclusively confirm.

However, given that pouring oneself a stiff drink at the workplace is A) only permissible if one is a master whiskey maker, and B) perfectly routine if starring in TV’s Mad Men, I’m faced with the sobering fact that there’s nothing new of worth to urge you all to trot off with your recessionist roubles to catch at the cinema, this week.

Instead, here’s another one of my irregular

FILM OF THE WEEK: Various to Directors: Various Starring: Harry Potter, Darth Vader, Oskar Schindlier – or, at least, the actors well-known for these cinematic characters

OUR VERDICT: WHILE Adam Sandler’s latest offering lurks at cinemas, rubbing shoulders with Nic Cage’s latest, here, instead, are a number of marginally better films to consider viewing, as cinemas and film distributors sink into their annual early-spring slump.

round-ups where I cock a snoop at some of the currently showing films, which I haven’t previously covered.

First up, and it’s Harry Pott–errr, I mean, Daniel Radcliffe, starring in The Woman In Black ( , 15A, 95 mins). Oh, and this time around, he ain’t the titular character, folks.

Sent to one of those creepy old mansions that only the rich and insane could afford to build and live in, outside a grim little town, the young solicitor is soon in no doubt as to why the locals fear the house by the marsh.

After all – and, as I

love saying, “the clue’s in the title!” – the film’s titular character is not only haunting the crumbling old place, but proving quite capable at killing the locals’ children in her supernatural quest for vengeance, of sorts.

And, Blimey O’Reilly, Radcliffe’s character only has a child of his own, hasn’t he? Err, yes, he does. It’s time for the mutton-chopped young man to face up to this spooky lady, before she strikes again ...

Based on the criticallyacclaimed 1980s book, which has also enjoyed an equally well-received play, the film fails to

complete the set, with Radcliffe proving particularly miscast in the role of Earnest Young Ghostbuster Solicitor Dad. Magic, it ain’t, but at least it’s not particularly awful ... ...which neatly leads me on to Star Wars: Episode 1: 3D ( , PG, 136 mins), which has returned like Obi-Wan to our screens. In 3D. This, of course, means that the film has finally gained an extra dimension, which is pretty neat, considering how utterly two-dimensional it was without this gimmicky extra bunged on top.

Star Wars fans will lap this up, and of course the 3D polishing adds an oooh-shiny layer of gloss to the impressive visuals.

However, as one of those old-fashioned people that like films with elements such as “plot” and “characterisation” – not to mention being

one of the six billionor so people that hated Jar Jar Binks, first time around – I sense a great disturbance in The Force regarding this one.

As with the previous film, Liam Neeson stars in The Grey ( , 15A, 117 mins). Oskar Schindler seems ever further behind him, as he coasts through a pretty daft film of Man Versus Wolf!

Here, the ever-decreasing numbers of survivors of a plane crash in a freezing, hostile landscape get picked off for lunch by some hirsute hunters – wolves – while Neeson tries to get them all back to safety, which is as daft, yet deftlymade, as I’ve probably just made it sound.

Finally, Adam Sandler’s latest – oh no, I’ve run out of space. Sorry, Adam. It was going to be a review for you, anyway. But then, aren’t they always? That’s all, folks!

1 March 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING Bytesandpieces The last word on The Last Story?

Once again, Alan Wake’s most useful defence comes from his trusty torch, as another unlikely, bizarre adventure begins to unravel around him.

However, the torch isn’t the only source of light relief in this downloadable sequel to his earlier title, with several fun moments, too.

Plenty of fun, schlockhorror moments here SHANE DILLON

YOU’LL understand that I have a certain symapthy for writers. While I wait for Hollywood to discover what a literary genius I am, I’ll have to settle for getting my literary kicks in the gaming world with Alan Wake, the unlikely hero, of sorts, of the hit XBox 360 title of the same name.

Actually, at the time of writing, I note that the recently-released port of Alan Wake to PC, via the digital distribution channel, Steam, recouped its PC development and marketing costs in just 48 hours.

It just goes to show that a great game needn’t be format-exclusive, and Alan’s bizarre adventures in a sleepy lumberjack town that’s anything but, could be a hit with any gamer interested in something a little different.

I’ve previously praised the XBox 360 version of

the title, as I really liked its graphics, coupled with the imaginative setting (coming on like a cross between Twin Peaks, The X-Files, The Twilight Zone and a vintage Stephen King tale), creating a title that took an awful long time to get made – five years – but which exceeded expectations.

Now, once again, Wake returns to the XBox with the next chapter in his tale – Alan Wake’s American Nightmare, presented as part of XBox 360’s “House Party” of downloadable titles.

Here, the unlucky protagonist has swapped the surprisingly violent setting of rural Bright Falls for a new tale in an unfamiliar new landscape.

While its parent title had a broad, wide-ranging plot with some literary pretensions – only to be expected from dealing with a character whose twisted words seemed to be coming to horrible life

around him – its sequel of sorts has swapped the highbrow appeal for popcorn shlock, reimagining Wake’s world as seen by, say, a collaboration between David Lynch and Quentin Tarantino.

The result is a game that’s familiar for Wake veterans, yet reimagined with a healthy dose of menace and threat, creating plenty of schlockhorror moments that will feel instantly familiar to any Alan Wake veteran or newbie alike.

Here, Wake has left the forests and lakes of Bright Falls far behind for the dusty plains of Arizona, as he finds himself once again out under a dark night sky, with little more than a torch for company.

It’s not long before Wake’s running for his life to the “safety” of a nearby motel, with a nearby diner also providing a thin slice of bright, welcoming safety from the

dark landscape, where oil derricks tirelessly bob up and down, and The Taken – mysterious, homicidal people swathed in swirling, oily smoke – lurk in the helpful darkness, ready to put Wake to sleep. Permanently.

Wake knows that Mr Scratch, his evil doppelganger (occasionally seen on TV sets in live footage, using the same actor for the Alan Wake model) is behind the nefarious goings on around him, and that, following his adventures in Bright Falls, his ability as a writer to manipulate reality with his words makes him the only person able to thwart such plans.

Now, all Alan has to do is find Mr Scratch – and to survive the darkness that’s all around ...

A sequel that’s not a direct sequel, Alan Wake’s American Nightmare is a highly enjoyable piece of action-horror-hokum.

Not for children (with

scenes of implied violence, murders, and more), my description of something that’s Lynchian and Tarantinoish seems pretty apt for this slice of paranormal Americana.

Still, although the game has its faults – Alan again controls like a tank, suffers from a “roadie-run” posture when he moves, and fights the camera almost as much as The Taken – it’s good fun, with a number of blackly amusing moments, too.

Its presentation, too, is notable, with the series’ Twilight Zone homage, “Night Springs”, framing much of the action in style, with a narrator’s distinctly dulcet tones occasionally describing Wake’s latest decisions.

Although not exactly the depeest or longest adventure in the world, this is an enjoyable return for Wake, while its occasional bursts of action certainly won’t send gamers to sleep ...

NINTENDO’S Wii troubles continue, as the console continues languishing at retail. It’s a pity as, although its successor is on the way, the Wii never quite hit the stride that it should have; not helped, perhaps, both by a few too many simplistic titles hitting the market, as well as not always being supported with any great enthusiasm by retailers, as a cursory walk into any games’ retailer around Dublin shows, with small Wii sections .

It’s unfortunate, then, that a richly imaginative title with much to appeal to gamers looking for a bit more “oomph” for their Wii, The Last Story – a highly-imaginative and beautifully-presented action-RPG – has been dropped by GAME, removed from the retailer’s website, and won’t be available to buy in the chain’s Irish stores, as I confirmed with a number of outlets by telephone.

While the retailer’s well-publicised trading difficulties continue, its seems counter-intuitive that key, flagship and console-specific titles would not be stocked by the chain. This would be akin to, say, going to your supermarket and being told that, no, sorry, they don’t sell milk. Not a critical problem, but not very helpful, at the same time.

Of course, The Last Story is available from other outlets, and is well worth seeking out and paying the asking price for a challenging, fun and frequently beautiful, Wii title.

GAZETTE

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 March 2012

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28 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 March 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Ronan and son set for Great Ireland Run RONAN Keating and his son, Jack, were on hand last week to help to launch the 2012 SPAR Great Ireland Run, and to show their support for the run’s nominated charities, the Marie Keating Foundation and the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation.

The SPAR Great Ireland Run 2012 will take place in the Phoenix Park on Sunday, April 15, at 1 pm, with up to 12,000 entries expected.

Every entrant will receive an exclusive technical T shirt before the event as well as a generous goody bag after completing the run.

Dublin Gazette Newspapers is delighted to announce that, once again, we have teamed up again this year with the SPAR Great Ireland Run to recognise the top runners in each of our newspapers’ local areas.

This year, the Gazette will recognise the fastest man and woman from each paper’s circulation area with a specially designed plaque, as well as prizes of sports gear. After the Run, we will also be publishing a results list of the top local male and female finishers.

The 2012 Run will once again incorporate the Irish 10k road championships and will feature most of Ireland’s top distance runners. To further incentivise elite Irish athletes and raise the standard of 10k running, a prize fund is being put in place for the first ten Irish men and women.

A star-studded field of international and national distance runners will compete on the day. Last year’s winners were Jesus Espana of Spain and Charlotte Purdue of Great Britain in 29:26 and 32:42 respectively.

Entries can be made online at www.greatirelandrun.org. More details and up-to-date news on the event is on Facebook and Twitter.

CRICKET: LOCAL INFLUENCE BRINGS INTERNATIONAL AWARD

Euro Under-19 player Paul Stirling with Brian O’Rourke, who received the Outstanding Contribution to Coaching award recently

O’Rourke honoured sport@gazettegroup.com

BRIAN O’ROURKE’S tireless efforts for Cricket Ireland have earned him the prestigious ICC Europe Coach Award ‘Outstanding Contribution to Cricket Coaching’ for 2012.

The 41-year-old Leinster Development Manager has played a pivotal role in the promotion of cricket in the country for the past 17 years - developing talents such as Eoin Morgan, the O’Brien brothers, John Mooney, William Porterfield, Boyd Rankin, Paul Stirling and George Dockrell.

It was under O’Rourke’s influence that Dockrell switched from a medium pace bowler to spin, a move which has turned him into one of the most highly rated youngsters in world cricket.

Clearly delighted that his hard work has been acknowledged by the ICC, O’Rourke said: “It’s a fantastic honour not just for me personally but also Irish cricket. There’s a real buzz in the country about cricket at the moment, and the game is clearly on the rise.

“The numbers of coaches and participants are growing significantly, and there’s still a lot of talent out there to be unearthed. There are a lot of opportunities now for young cricketers and I’m confident that Ireland will continue to be a major player on the world circuit for generations to come.”

O’Rourke has fulfilled a variety of roles since 1995, coaching Ireland teams from Under-15 through to Under-19 level, taking charge of Under-19

World Cup campaigns in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Malaysia.

During that time he has also been heavily involved at inter-provincial level, leading Leinster Under 15s at every tournament since 1997.

O’Rourke has also instigated a comprehensive tour programme for Leinster youth sides, giving them opportunities against quality representative sides from the UK - to date 50 such tours have taken place for Leinster teams aged 11 to 19, with notable wins against county opposition, including Gloucestershire, Yorkshire and Derbyshire.

The Pembroke club man has gained experience by working in Australia and South Africa, forging valuable pioneering partnerships between those countries and Irish

cricket – indeed no fewer than 20 youngsters have been placed in South African schools since 2003.

He has also organised training camps in India and Spain, helping future Irish cricketers obtain valuable overseas playing experience.

Brian O’Rourke has been involved in the establishment of many new clubs over the past two years, including Adamstown, Dundalk, Swords, Tyrrelstown, Cabinteely, Carlow, Clonee and Greystones.

O’Rourke’s innovative work in school’s cricket has seen thousands of children introduced to the game, and the emergence of the Leprechaun Cup has seen the game at the crucial Under-11 level go from strength to strength.

Indeed such has been

the popularity of the primary school competition that it has been necessary to introduce an additional Super League element for schools in the Dublin and Wicklow regions..

National Development Manager, Tim Simmonite, knows just how important O’Rourke is to Cricket Ireland.

He said: “Brían continues to play a key role in the creation of future coaches as part of a much greater workforce. He is a proud and passionate man, and Ireland would simply not be where it is on the world cricket stage without him.

“Brian’s record, achievements and abilities speak for themselves and I’m delighted that he has achieved recognition through this prestigious award - he fully deserves this accolade.”

1 March 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 29

2012 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - FEBRUARY NOMINEES

FastSport

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

# STARof the

Superbike superstar added to Bavaria line-up

MONTH

SHANE DAGG

LESLEY O’HALLORAN

REBECCA MCDONNELL

THE Malahide exile was a crucial part of British Columbia’s victory in the Las Vegas Rugby Sevens’ championship, scoring in both the semi-final and the final.

DUN LAOGHAIRE tennis star O’Halloran came back with four medals, including gold, from the ITF Senior World Championships in San Diego last month.

REBECCA from Westmanstown Gaels became the first representative from the club to be picked for a Dublin team this month.

THREE ROCK ROVERS

CLONDALKIN GYM

BALLYBODEN U-21S

THE Rathfarnham hockey club proved their mettle and resilience in the EuroHockey indoor championships in Turkey, claiming promotion.

THE Precision Display Squad made history by becoming the first club to claim back-to-back titles at the City of Leeds Gymfest.

THE St Enda’s side claimed their fourth title at this level in five years in an epic final against Kilmacud Crokes in which they prevailed in by a point.

# TEAMof the MONTH

Lining out for Calcutta: Charity race’s 14th running IRELAND rugby stars Conor Murray, Peter O’Mahony and Donnacha Ryan lined out last week to launch the Calcutta Run which takes place on Saturday, May 26.

The 14th running of the race will see funds being raised for the Peter McVerry Trust and GOAL’s work with homeless young people in Dublin and Calcutta.

The 2011 race raised €160,000. For more information, see www.calcuttarun.com

IRISH World Superbike star Eugene Laverty is the latest big name from the world of motorsport to confirm their participation at Bavaria Dublin City Racing extravaganza that comes to the city in June.

The 25-year-old from Antrim finished fourth in the World Superbike Championship in 2011 and has since teamed up with the Max Biaggi at the Aprilia team to push for the top spot.

Laverty will ride his Aprilia Superbike along the Bavaria City Racing city track, which starts at the Convention Centre, continues along Customs’ House Quay before crossing Butt Bridge, chicanes at D’Olier Street, zips past College Green and the Central Bank on Dame Street before reaching the chequered flag on O’Connell Bridge.

The Aprilia team joins an ever-growing line-up of international and domestic motorsport talent that includes the Vodafone McClaren F1 team and the Breezemount Motorsport GP2 team at the event.

Bavaria City Racing Dublin will take place on Sunday, June 3, and is a free public event and over 150,000 people are expected to line the streets to enjoy the best the world of motorsport has to offer.

For those who want to get closer to the action, there are three ticketed premium performance zones on the track at Customs House Quay, O’Connell Bridge and at the Main Paddock on North Wall Quay. Tickets for these areas are priced from €75.90 and are available from Ticketmaster.

Ireland three for three in T20 series IRELAND’S cricketers finished their tour of Kenya with a whitewash in the Twenty20 series against the host nation in Mombasa last weekend.

The third match proved a close-run encounter, that Ireland came out of vic-

torious by only two runs.

Ed Joyce and Gary Wilson were the main scorers for the visitors in their innings, that saw them run up a total of 107 for 9.

Kenya ran the match close, ending on 105 for 7, with wickets being claimed by Alex White, Boyd Rankin and George Dockerell proving the difference between the sides.

30 SWORDS GAZETTE 1 March 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Fingal face UCD to try to salvage season FINGAL face a huge battle in their bid to beat the drop from Leinster hockey’s division one as they welcome UCD to ALSAA on Saturday afternoon at 1.30pm.

The northside team fell to a 6-2 loss to Railway Union last weekend and, with the students picking up a draw, Fingal were pegged back into a share of ninth place with UCD in the division, with Clontarf still able to leap-frog both teams.

They were 3-0 down at half-time against Railway before rallying with goals from Ken Treacy and Luke Hayden but they never got in range to affect the result as Eoin MacArthur scored twice and Rob Abbott, Peter English, Jeremy Duncan and Mark English countered.

Fingal also play next Tuesday night in the league against Three Rock Rovers coming to the airport at 8.15pm.

SOCCER: INITIATIVE GROWS AS ROAD TO POLAND GETS CLOSE

FAI coaches Conor Cullen and Liam Fennell at the Road to Poland schools coaching programme in Bracken Educate Together NS, Balbriggan

Boot camps begin in Fingal I sport@gazettegroup.com

FOLLOWING the official launch by Ireland senior team manager, Giovanni Trapattoni, of the community Road to Poland grassroots programme, the FAI are delighted to announce further developments in the north county region.

On the back of successful Road to Poland schools coaching programmes in Balbriggan, similar programmes are being rolled out in Swords primary schools, namely Holy Family NS, Kinsealy NS and Applewood Gaelscoil NS. With the backing of

Swords Pavilions and, in line with their community support programme, additional programmes, including a Tiny Tots programme for three to five-year-olds is now up and running in Rivervalley Community Centre in Swords every Tuesday morning, and a forthcoming 4v4 Road to Poland programme in Swords will take place.

The grassroots initiative has been a huge success to date, with three after-school coaching programmes set up in Balbriggan, and there are four more planned for Swords, together with an unique Road to Poland

Global sponsors: Swords Celtic get local firm’s backing MICHAEL Daly, of DSV Air & Sea Ireland, Ltd and Neale Fenn, Swords Celtic’s firstteam manager, were on hand recently to help to announce DSV’s sponsorship of the 2012 senior team.

DSV Air & Sea are a global end-toend freight forwarder, with over 21,000 employees in 110 countries.

Swords Celtic would like to thank DSV for their sponsorship and commitment towards the senior section for the coming season.

4v4 tournament play competition coming up in the weeks ahead.

One lucky winner from this competition will have the honour of being a mascot at the Aviva stadium for the last Republic of Ireland home friendly against Bosnia on May 26, before the team sets off for Poland and Euro 2012.

Under the guidance of FAI/Fingal County Council development officers, Paul Keogh and Michael Pender, the partnership with Swords Pavilions has meant close to 500 boys and girls in primary schools in the region will have

Euro 2012 brought a little closer to them.

Speaking of the success to date of the Road to Poland programmes, FA I / F i n g a l C o u n t y Council Development officer, Paul Keogh, said: “We are delighted with the response to date to all the programmes we have rolled out. Increasing participation is important for the association, it has been fantastic to see so many girls getting involved.

“With the backing of Fingal County Council and Swords Pavilions more is planned as the excitement of Poland and Ireland’s first tournament

in ten years approaches.”

Marion Brown, Principal Sports Development Officer, Fingal County Council, said; “Fingal County Council’s Sports Office and the FAI have a fantastic relationship and this programme is another example of how both organisations, working together, are affecting young people in a positive way at grassroots level.”

For more information on any of the programmes being run in Swords, please contact FA I / F i n g a l C o u n t y Council Development officer, Michael Pender 087-1273258.

1 March 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 31

in association with

FOOTBALL: DUBLIN STAR LINES OUT FOR COLLEGE

CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS OUR adult footballers kicked off

coaching development, the club has

their seasons over the weekend with

decided to extend the closing date for

a league draw against Erin’s Isle for

the purchase of tickets to March 31.

the seniors, the first junior team

The draw which will now take place in

were defeated and the 2nd team

the clubhouse on March 31 at 10pm.

won.

The club is now employing three new

Well done to DCU and Paul Flynn

coaches, Dublin hurler Simon Lam-

when they captured the Sigerson Cup

bert, and full-time student coaches

on Saturday afternoon.

Michael O’Sullivan (Tipperary foot-

Fingal hurlers defeated Louth with

baller) and Aine Shannon ( Wexford

the back bone of the team coming

camogie player), who have begun to

from Fins, including top scorer JM

rollout the coaching programme with

Sheridan, Dermot Vaughan, Peter

various teams.

Daly and Paul Quinn.

Seachtain na Gaeilgeis on from

In response to members’ requests

March 5 to 17. We encourage every-

for more time to allow fullest partici-

body to make a special effort and try

pation in the club car draw to aid the

and speak some of the Irish they have.

FINGAL RAVENS

Fingallians’ Paul Flynn was on hand for DCU to propel them to Sigerson Cup vistory against NUI Maynooth last week

Flynn powers DCU to Sigerson Cup success SIGERSON CUP FINAL DCU NUI Maynooth

2-17 0-7

I sport@gazettegroup.com

FINGALLIANS’ Paul Flynn put in a powerful display to inspire DCU to Sigerson Cup final glory against NUI Maynooth last Saturday afternoon.

He was central to DCU’s impressive showing, and his goal early in the second half set his side on the road to victory.

Flynn, who scored 1-3 in total, timed his run and jump perfectly to redirect a curling free from Dean Rock into the net in the 34th minute, and, as a result, establish a 1-8 to 0-4 advantage for DCU. Ballymun Kickhams’ clubman, Rock, also had a good day in front of the posts, scoring three points from play and one free.

A third Dub in the DCU attack, Eoghan

O’Gara, had an excellent game at full-forward and, as well as from winning a constant supply of possession, he also slotted four points from play.

D u b l i n U n d e r-21 player, Gary Sweeney, gave Dublin U-21 manager Jim Gavin a welcome boost ahead of this Wednesday night’s Cadbury Leinster U-21FC clash in Bellefield, Enniscorthy, by coming off the bench to slot a late point.

T he St Sylvester ’s man also featured off the bench in DCU’s semi-final victory on Friday, returning to action after being sidelined in recent weeks due to a hamstring injury.

Sigerson Cup victory followed up the college’s success in the O’Byrne Cup to make it a memorable month for the Glasnevin academy.

Elsewhere, Fingal-

lians’ John Matthew Sheridan top-scored once again for Fingal when they picked off a 1-13 to 0-12 victory over Louth in their opening National Hurling League encounter.

A free-scoring start to the second half saw them push on after they had trailed 0-6 to 0-5 at the break, but points from Richardson, Colm Foley and Sheridan nosed Fingal in front.

T hey kept the momentum going when Sheridan found the net and, despite Louth closing the gap to four points on two occasions in the final quarter, Fingal always found the scores to maintain their advantage.

The corner forward struck four frees in his final tally of 1-6, and was joined in the side by clubmate Dermot Vaughan.

Sunday morning, meanwhile, saw the opening round of the

league football season, with several local sides in action.

Fingal Ravens, for whom Warren Finnegan has returned to St Brigid’s, saw their defence breached four times by newly-promoted O’Toole’s in Division One in Rolestown, falling 4-5 to 0-12.

Fingallians, meanwhile, started their campaign with a 1-10 apiece draw with Finglas side, Erin’s Isle, in their bid to get back into the play-offs following their near-miss on promotion in 2011.

CLUB membership for 2012 is now

Chiarain in Clonshaugh at 11am in

due. Please get your membership

the league; junior B team play Round

forms from any committee mem-

Towers at 2.30pm in Lusk in the cup.

ber or team mentor, or they can be

Anyone looking for a DVD of the box-

downloaded from our website. All

ing must text their order to Declan

membership must be paid by March.

on 086 858 7231.

As agreed at the club AGM, non-paid

Anyone looking to order tickets for

up members (adult and juvenile)

Dublin v Armagh (football) and Dub-

will not be permitted to play after

lin v Cork (hurling) in Croke Park on

March.

Sunday, March 11, please text your

Next Sunday, the Junior A team

order to Desy on 087 995 7429 by 8pm

play O’Dwyer at 11am in Balbriggan

next Thursday, March 1. Stand €14,

in the cup; minor team play Craobh

Child €6, all Hill tickets €14.

ST COLMCILLE’S League campaign commenced on

allow for maximum benefit from the

Sunda y af ternoon with a home

trainer and the sessions.

game vs St Margaret’s. After a slow

Next weekend is cup action with

start, the team rallied in the sec-

an away fixture to the Naul, with

ond half to turn around a six-point

throw-in at 2pm. Meeting in the

deficit to secure a hard-earned

club at 12.45pm sharp.

draw. A good team performance in the second half.

Turn out for training was disappointing last week and an improve-

Club lotto is at €9,000 and the draw is held every Monday night at 10pm. Envelopes cost €2 per line or €5 for three lines.

ment is required for this week, with

The club are seeking support to

adult training on Tuesdays and

help kick start the juvenile section

Thursdays at 7.30pm. A full turn-

- any help welcome - if interested

out from the squad is required to

please let Adam know.

ST FINIAN’S A very busy weekend of fixtures

at the Gormanston Indoor tourna-

brought the club a lot of success

ment.

with wins for our intermediate

The Executive Committee are

footballers, junior footballers and

also delighted to report that we

our minor hurlers. All the pre-sea-

have taken possession from Fingal

son training certainly paid off this

County Council of some new pitches

weekend. For all adult and juvenile

in Ridgewood. The pitches consist of

results and fixtures, please see our

full-sized and juvenile pitches and

website, www.stfinians.com.

they will help us greatly with the fix-

We are hosting an Under-10 indoor camogie tournament next Saturday, March 3, from 12 noon to 3pm.

Well done to our Under-10 camogie team on a couple of great results

ture congestion at the weekends.

The Sam Maguire trophy will be visiting the Club next Saturday from 3 to 6pm. All the teams have been allocated a slot for a team photo.

ALL OF YOUR SWORDS SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

HURLING HEROES: Fingal open their NHL campaign with win over Louth P31

MARCH 1, 2012

FEBRUARY FLYERS: Dublin Sports Awards nominees announced P29

GazetteSPORT

Swords Celtic’s U-12s, following their success in Dungloe, will be hoping to push on to yet another round in the SFAI Cup this weekend

Celts tackle Tipp’s finest in SFAI Cup Swords’ young tyros line up another big date on the national stage as they take on Templemore on Sunday swordssport@gazettegroup.com

SWORDS Celtic’s U-12s will play one of their biggest games this season this Sunday when they take on Templemore in Balheary Reservoir (1pm) in the last 16 of the SFAI Norton Cup. The competition initially saw over 300 clubs enter the competition but Swords have already come through five rounds to be one of just a few NDSL sides still standing in the All-Ireland competitions.

It is a run that has seen them overcome sides from Balbriggan, Kilbarrack, Maynooth and Clontarf in the North Leinster regional rounds – running up 24 goals in the process.

They subsequently made it past Dungloe Town in the final 32, in a game described by manager Eddie Darcy as one of the toughest games his team ever played.

The Celts battled fiercely against the Donegal opposition, falling behind early as the long journey took a while to be shaken from their legs.

The atmosphere was electric with the game very well supported on the sideline. Every ball was battled for in a fair and honest manner as Swords – captained by Conor Murtagh – forged their way into the game with goals from Aaron Duffy and Karl Stanley to push them through to the last 16 phase.

Templemore have had a slightly shorter route to this phase as two 3-2 wins in the South West region put them into the national stage where, again, the same scoreline was enough to dismiss Killinardish Coachford.

Such ties are often journeys into the unknown but Swords go into the tie off the back of a great season to date, which has seen them rise to the top of the NDSL Premier league with eight wins and a draw from nine games – four clear of their nearest rivals with five games to go.

They are one of a couple of Fingal clubs on course in the national competitions as Malahide United have also been blazing a trail.

Three of their schoolboy sides have made it

through to the quarter-finals of the SFAI cups in an unprecedented show of force from the Gannon Park club.

In doing so, they outdid all other DDSL clubs with an incredible set of cup runs. The U-15 side, one step away from emulating their semi-final run of a year ago, got the better of Evergreen in Cork after extra time, prevailing 2-1, to set up a quarter-final date with Templeogue United.

At U-14 level, Templeogue – winners in 2010 at U-12 level – halted Malahide’s run in a classic 6-4 contest but Michael Dowling’s U-13 selection produced an outstanding comeback against Dublin rivals, Mountview Boys.

They trailed 3-1 but came back to claim the tie in enthralling fashion, taking the laurels on a 4-3 scoreline.

Finally, Lorcan Mooney’s U-11 side won through in a Dublin derby against Belvedere, winning on penalties after normal time ended 1-1.