Swords

Swords GAZET TE FREE

Shirley Lanigan updates guide to our many horticultural gems

SEE PAGE 14 JULY 12, 2012

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Travel money ruling queried

by Daly I NATALIE BURKE

LOCAL TD Clare Daly (SP) has hit out at claims that she was not entitled to use part of her travel and accommodation allowances for a nationwide campaign against water and household charges.

Deputy Daly was one of three Dublin-based TDs who have questioned the provisional ruling by the

Houses of the Oireachtas Service that says they were not entitled to do so.

“A TD on a worker’s wage gets the same money as I was on in Aer Lingus and we choose to use the rest of our expenses to further a lot of the campaigning issues that we were elected on. And we make no apologies for that whatsoever,” she said.

Full Story on Page 2

Bargain hunters: Turning clutter into cash at a sale PAT TIERNEY, Liz McKenna, Ella, Zoe and Rebecca McKenna were among the many bargain hunters at a recent car boot sale at The Old Borough National School in aid of St Columba’s Church.

The event was a great opportunity for locals to get rid of the clutter from their homes and raise some much-needed money.

See Gallery on Page 9

2 SWORDS GAZETTE 12 July 2012

PRE-SCHOOL Links Montessori rewards little leavers REFORM: ALL CLAIMS SHOULD BE VOUCHED FOR, SAYS SOCIALIST TD

Daly ‘happy’ spotlight is trained on TD expenses I NATALIE BURKE

nburke@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL TD Clare Daly has hit out at claims that she was not entitled to use part of her travel and accommodation allowances for a nationwide campaign against water and household charges, and welcomes the spotlight that has been put on TDs’ allowances.

Deputy Daly was one of the three Dublinbased TDs from the United Left Alliance who used their allowances for similar campaigns and who have questioned the provisional ruling by the Houses of the Oireachtas Service that says they were not entitled to do so.

Advice

A statement made by the service last week revealed that allowances of €1,000 a month were paid to Clare Daly and Joe Higgins of the Socialist Party and Joan Collins of People Before Profit, which should have only incorporated costs incurred within their own constituencies, except when travelling to and from Leinster House. The statement also noted, however, that the service is currently seeking legal advice to clarify the position.

Following the recent statement, Deputy Clare Daly says she is happy to see the controversial issue of TDs’ expenses highlighted.

“We were quite happy to see the spotlight put on expenses because [the United Left Allia n c e ] we r e a l w ay s looking to have that reformed. It is excessive and the salaries are ridiculous, and the

idea that people would claim expenses and not receipt for them is absolutely outrageous. That is the system that’s there at the moment and it’s completely wrong and needs to be changed.

There is a huge amount of money paid to the big parties and that needs to be looked at as well.”

No apologies

Deputy Daly says she has always been upfront about how she spends her expenses and prior to the election, made it clear that she did not benefit financially from the elected positions. “A TD on a worker’s wage gets the same money as I was on in Aer Lingus and we choose to use the rest of our expenses to further a lot of the campaigning issues that we were elected on. And we make no apologies for that whatsoever.”

Although the household tax was one of the campaign issues, Deputy Daly insists it is not an issue that can be defeated only in Dublin North. “I can bring the benefit of having the privilege of meeting people around the country back to my own constituency and vice versa, and I think it’s a really positive thing actually because we are elected to national parliament.

“The others [TDs] spent the same thing, and they chose to spend it on their car tax and tyres, which other workers pay for out of their wages as I do. And, in that sense, I think it’s more productive to use [the allowances] to support our campaigns on the basis of the platform I was elected on,” she concluded.

Kerrie Gilla, Deirdre Kelly, Roisin Ni Ghribhthin and Natasha Williams. Pictures: Una Williams

Starting on the road to learning T HE Grand Hotel in Malahide was host to the Links Childcare Montessori graduation ceremony recently, when the children, dressed in full cap and gown, received an educational parchment in front of guests.

The ceremony included children performing songs that they had learned throughout the year through Montessori and in Spanish and speech and drama classes.

This year was the largest group of children to graduate

Sophie Miller, Alannah Rochford and Una Drury Byrne

Ludia and Nuria Vallue and Orla O’Dwyer

since 2004. This year children graduated from Abington Wood, Malahide, Seabrook Manor, Portmarnock, The Links, Portmarnock, St Olave’s, Cornmill, Clonee and the newest branch at Balbriggan.

Since opening their newest branch in Abington Wood, Malahide in August 2009, Links Childcare has become one of the largest childcare facilities on the northside of Dublin.

Jake Staunton and Jamie Lynn

Carmel, Cian and Willie Prizeman

12 July 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 3

WASTE WATCH Local concern over Fingal’s image

Sewage plan attracts over 1200 objections I NATALIE BURKE

WITH the Flavours of Fingal festival on the horizon, Lusk Waste Watch has voiced its fears that promoting Fingal food may not be sustainable in future years, should the massive sewage plant planned for the area go ahead.

The final batch of submissions was sent to Greater Dublin Drainage last week as the deadline on the proposal to build the treatment plant passed.

Over 1,200 letters detailing objections to the plan were collected from concerned Lusk residents and were brought to the

council’s head office in Swords.

Speaking just before the submissions were handed in, local campaigner Lorcan O’Toole said it was “ironic” to see the council planning to build a huge sewage plant in the heart of horticultural Fingal, while also planning an event to promote Fingal food.

“It’s great to see a promotion like Flavours of Fingal and just what the council should be doing.

In a few years’ time, it may not be so easy to stage such an event; the image of Fingal will be radically affected by the location of a sewage plant in its heart,” he said.

Regarding the plans for the campaign, O’Toole added: “Fingal County Council will have to answer to the people of Fingal generally, and particularly the people of Lusk, if they persist in their plan to go ahead with this insane proposal.

They have so far ignored the very real and justifiable concerns of the very people they are meant to serve. They have admitted that they have not even given any consideration to the issue of the burden on the community.

“They don’t seem to be listening and seem hellbent on imposing this horror on a village that has done more than its

Local campaigner Lorcan O’Toole: FCC will have to answer to the people of Fingal if they persist in their plan to go ahead with this insane proposal

fair share already. If the final selected site is in Lusk, there will be a very serious response from the people. We simply cannot accept our village being sacrificed like this,” he concluded.

In response to the concerns raised by Mr O’Toole, a spokesperson for Greater Dublin

Drainage confirmed that community overburdening has been taken into account and known environmentally designated areas and sensitive receptors have been mapped for potential constraints. The Alternative Site Assessment (ASA) process aims to avoid and where this is

not possible, to mitigate against any associated impacts.

When the planning application for the project is submitted to An Bord Pleanala, the independent adjudicator will make a determination as to whether the project is compliant with sustainable planning.

EVENTS A busy summer for local guide dogs THE Balbriggan branch of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGDB) have a busy summer period ahead, with a number of events set to take place in the area.

T he charity’s first fundraising event is the IGDB annual dog walk, which will take place in Malahide Castle at 3pm on Sunday, July 15, and all members of the community and their dogs are welcome to join in the fun.

The charity is also set to host a car raffle at the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre on the weekend of July 19, before they appear at the RDS Horse Show on Thursday, August 16.

Anyone interested in volunteering their time and helping out with any of these events should contact the IGDB, Balbriggan Branch, on 085 766 3107.

4 SWORDS GAZETTE 12 July 2012

12 July 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 5

HOLIDAY: 20 CHILDREN JET TO NORTH DUBLIN FOR REST AND RECUPERATION

SCHEME Reservoir works may disrupt traffic

Chernobyl kids to enjoy a carefree visit I SUZANNE BYRNE

FAMILIES across North Dublin have been rolling out the red carpet for the arrival of 20 children from Belarus, who have jetted into the area for a month of rest and recuperation with their new “Irish families”.

The children, eight boys and 12 girls between the ages of seven and 13, are here as part the 26th anniversary of Adi Roche’s Chernobyl Children International (CCI) Rest & Recuperation Programme, which gives the children a break from the still highradiation environment in western Russia.

The summer is a particularly dangerous time for the children, as the intense heat in Belarus contributes to the redistribution of radioactive materials in the atmosphere. Research has shown that the chil-

dren’s radiation levels fall by 30-50% during their stay in Ireland.

All the host families are based around Oldtown, Roganstown, Kilsallaghan, Swords, Castleknock and Ongar.

The arrival of this summer’s group of 500 children to Ireland brings the total number of children who have benefited under the scheme to over 22,000 since 1991.

A group of volunteers have spent the past eight months fundraising to make the trip possible, with local businesses getting on board in helping out to provide everything the young visitors need.

Among the businesses who have donated their time are Specsavers Swords, dentist Dr David Patton and the Plaza Medical Clinic.

The children will have little time to themselves,

with plenty of activities planned, including a trip to the fire station, courtesy of Finglas Fire Brigade; a party in Cork’s Cafe Bar in Ashbourne; a day out in Fort Lucan; a fun day with food and play organised by Little Moo Moos playschool; a swimming trip, courtesy of Sportslink Santry, and a fancy dress night in Oldtown House.

Trina Gilchrist, the North Dublin CCI chairperson, has taken in two girls, Dasha and Vika.

Trina told the Gazette that this year, many of the children have been brought over from Gomel and Mogilev, two of the areas worst affected by the ongoing fallout from the nuclear accident in 1986, which released large quantities of radioactive contamination, which spread over much of western USSR and Europe.

Enchanting Ella: Hitting the beach to raise awareness of dog fouling issues DOG OWNERS and walkers along Rush Main Street and beach were treated to the sight of Fingal County Council’s latest recruit in the war against litter and dog fouling last week. Ella, a two-year old golden retriever, accompanied by her owner, Fingal Litter Warden Wendy Byrne, were out and about meeting dog walkers and members of the public and raising awareness of dog fouling issues, and encouraging responsible behaviour. Ella and Wendy will be visiting Swords on Thursday, July 12.

ROAD works due to take place in Balbriggan this week are likely to cause disruption for road users over the next month, Fingal County Council has warned.

A one-way traffic system will be in place along the Harry Reynolds Road in Balbriggan from July 11 until August 17, as part of essential works to the Balbriggan High Level Water Supply Scheme.

As part of the project, a new reservoir is being constructed which will be connected to the existing water network. To facilitate this, a new watermain is being laid along the Harry Reynolds Road during this period.

Access to individual premises will be maintained at all times during the course of the works and extensive signage will be displayed.

6 SWORDS GAZETTE 12 July 2012

GOURMET: THE NATIONAL START-UP AWARDS

COUNCIL New Lusk grave site a possibility

A big win for Keogh’s crisps

A NEW graveyard site could be on the cards for the area of Lusk, Fingal County Council has confirmed.

Following a local council meeting held earlier this year, the council confirmed that the land to the rear of the existing burial ground in Lusk, at Katy Hunter’s Cottage, would be assessed and tested to determine if it would be suitable for use as a burial ground.

I NATALIE BURKE

A LOCAL company that commenced trading less than eight months ago has scooped a major award at the National Start-up Awards 2012 held recently in the Burlington Hotel.

Keogh’s Crisps, based in Oldtown, received a significant investment from Fingal County Enterprise Board when they started a new gourmet crisp manufacturing business last year.

Completed

According to the latest report given by the council, the assessment for the proposed graveyard site will be completed by the end of September this year.

It has been acknowledged, however, that a significant amount of funding will be required to carry out the necessary construction works involved, should the lands be deemed suitable.

A mother’s bravery: Stolen - Escape from Syria is launched at the Carnegie Court THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH of the book Stolen - Escape from Syria by Louise Monaghan was held at the Carnegie Court, Swords recently.

Stolen - Escape from Syria is the harrowing story of Louise’s walk across the heavily guarded border of Syria to save her six-yearold child from the father who had snatched her from her home in Cyprus.

It is a story of survival as Louise and her daughter were led by illegal people-smugglers in a journey through bomb attacks and sniper fire in the dead of night to safety.

Pictured at the event are Frankie Monaghan, Outgoing Mayor Gerry McGuire (Lab), author and Swords native Louise Monaghan, Daragh Butler and Louise’s daughter, May.

Unique

Since then, they have gone from strength to strength, with the Keogh brothers even making an appearance on RTE One’s Saturday Night Show, where they launched their unique Shamrock f lavoured crisp range, just ahead of St Patrick’s Day. The Keogh’s brand of

home-grown potatoes has been a staple part of most Irish homes for generations. Spotting a gap in the market for Irish home-grown luxury gourmet crisps, they created a plan to branch into the production of handcooked snack foods. The crisps can now be seen in many retail outlets throughout Ireland and the company has major plans to export the product internationally.

Speaking on the success of Keogh’s Crisps so far, the CEO of Fingal Enterprise Board, Oisin Geoghegan, said: “Keogh’s have shown that even in the middle of a recession, a small business can successfully create a new product range with enormous market potential. Innovative businesses like this one will help to provide much-needed jobs in our local economy.”

DublinGazetteNewspapers Advertising Sales Professionals Dublin Gazette Newspapers is Dublin’s fastest growing community weekly regional publisher, with 8 titles covering the M50 from Swords to Dun Laoghaire.

We are currently looking to recruit: We are now seeking experienced media sales executives to work in our advertising dept in our Lucan head office on a number of Dublin Gazette titles. Experience in newspaper advertising sales is preferable. Full clean driving licence and own car required; fluent written and oral English essential.

Excellent package on offer to suitable candidates.

If you can work on your own initiative within a team environment, are motivated, enthusiastic with an excellent work ethic, please send your cv to: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com

12 July 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 7

EDUCATION Long-term loan is welcomed

Local Labour councillor Tom Kelleher believes the latest funding is simply matching needs with figures

Two local schools target of EU funds I NATALIE BURKE

TWO schools in the local area, Holywell Educate Together, Swords, and Scoil Chormaic, Balbriggan, are set to benefit from the latest funding announced by the European Investment Bank (EIB).

In a formal announcement made by the EIB last week, over €100 milllion will be provided to the Government to fund the construction of 550 classrooms across the country.

Holy well Educate Together and Scoil Chormaic are just two of the Irish schools set to receive new classrooms over the next two years as part of the latest capital investment.

The initiative was

launched in Dublin last week by Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairi Quinn TD, and EIB president, Werner Hoyer.

The programme will see the building of more than 550 classrooms, and involve modernisation and construction works in 35 primary and 12 secondary schools across the country. It will significantly improve teaching conditions and will provide new facilities for a total of 5,500 primary pupils and 6,650 secondary students.

The 25-year loan from the EIB, the long-term lending institution of the European Union, will form part of the Irish Government’s €219 million schools expansion programme, to be managed by the Department

of Education.

According to Minister Quinn, the funding will support the implementation of the five-year construction programme which he announced earlier this year.

“The long-term loan provides a more efficient and cost-effective means of funding this programme than would otherwise be possible. It is a very welcome development and is good news for the taxpayer, not to mention pupils and teachers across the nation.”

While an increased enrolment capacity of 70,000 additional school places is expected over the next seven years in Ireland, local Labour councillor Tom Kelleher believes the latest funding is simply matching needs

with figures.

“We know how many children are about to go into the education system, we know what provisions have to be made, so it’s just a question of doing it in time. All it is is responding to an obvious need,” he said.

“According to the Census returns, Fingal has the fastest growing population in the country. Provisions have to be made on a continuous basis for more and more children entering the education system and it’s important the Department keeps abreast of all the figures, that the corresponding buildings required are put in place and that this is done in advance of, or at the very latest, simultaneous with the kids going to school.”

‘Spray-cation’ tour on the way THE Pavilion Shopping Centre will play host to some golden sunshine this summer, when the Swords-based McCabe’s Pharmacy will be the only Irish stopover of the St Tropez “Spray-cation” tour.

The tour will come to the Pavilion Shopping Centre on Friday and Saturday, July 13 and 14,

and visitors will be treated to a bespoke spray tan, product demonstrations and a consultation with celebrity tanning expert, Jules Heptonstall, who has tanned a host of celebrities.

He will be joined by representatives from McCabe’s Pharmacy and St Tropez who will be offering hints and tips on how to achieve a

salon-perfect tan at home.

Commenting on the event, Ciara McCabe of McCabe’s Pharmacy said: “We’re delighted to be hosting the only Irish stopover of the St Tropez Spray-cation tour.

We’re dedicated to bringing the leading brands and latest beauty products to our customers so they look and feel their best.”

8 SWORDS GAZETTE 12 July 2012

12 July 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 9

BARGAIN HUNT Searching for a good deal at car boot sale

Mervyn Darlington, co-ordinator

Robert Keane, Thomas Traynor and Gerard Fallon. Pictures: Una Williams

Noel and Pamela Murphy

Pat Tierney, Liz McKenna, Ella, Zoe and Rebecca McKenna

Turning unwanted clutter into cash HE Old Borough National School in Swords was the venue for a recent car boot sale in aid of St Columba’s Church. Locals were encouraged to fill up their cars with all the bits and bobs they don’t want

T

anymore and turn the clutter into cash. The rain stayed away which helped bargain hunters in their search for something special. The event will continue every Saturday during June, July and August.

Dylan and Cian Bowbrick

Irwin and Janice Johnson

10 SWORDS GAZETTE 12 July 2012

CELEBRATIONS The Phoenix Park Pirates take on the Dublin 8’s

Birthday bash for the USA

N July 4, US Ambassador to Ireland Dan Rooney and his wife Patricia celebrated American Independence Day by hosting the Third Irish American Flag Football Classic. Over 2,500 guests were in attendance for the Independence Day celebrations.

The football was delivered by professionals who sky dived from a plane overhead.

Then it was time for The Phoenix Park Pirates to take on the Dublin 8’s.

The Dublin 8’s took the title this year winning 44 to 37. Guests of all ages enjoyed hamburgers, hotdogs, red, white and blue cupcakes and other traditional American treats. The Kids Zone was a huge success with face painting, story-telling, science demonstrations and the giant inflatable slide.

O

William Cummins, Eddie Goggins, Ref Tony Rivers, Dan Rooney and Barry Bolton. Pictures: Peter Doyle Peter and Mary Tiernan

Dublin 8’s Youth with Martin Kane, head coach, and Heather Sanchez, team manager

Dave Duffy approaches and then lands with Uncle Sam with Avril and Nathan Byrne

The game featured plenty of end-to-end action

the Steelers’ Flag

12 July 2012 GAZETTE 11

in American football game to mark USA’s birthday

Phoenix Park Pirates Youth with head coach Gerry Bourke and team manager Elizabeth Morrisson

Jimmy Kloda, Zoe Gibson, Karen Doyle, Alan Munnelly, Justyna Kloda and David Vincent French

Katrina Morrisson, US Ambassador to Ireland Dan Rooney, and Aidan Kelly

Zoe Gibson, Karen Doyle and Justyna Kloda

Louise McKiernan, Margaret McKiernan, Mairead Butler, Dylan

Blaithin Ruadh, Sinead O’Neill and Sarah Daly

Butler and Conor Butler with Snap, Crackle and Pop

Peter Killalea

Little Caoimhe McDonald, Lee Gibson was a favourite with all those red, white and blue cup cakes

Hadar Levy from the Israeli Embassy

three months old, on her first

enjoying the celebrations

Independence Day

Derek Byrne and Andrew Bradford

12 GAZETTE 12 July 2012

INDEPENDENCE DAY Over 2,000 get together to mark July 4

Letting celebrate I PAUL HOSFORD

US Ambassador Dan Rooney with Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Aidan Prendergast of the Mayoman’s Association (top) and with Social Protection Minister, Joan Burton

OVER 2,000 people gathered at the residence of the American Ambassador to Ireland, Dan Rooney, last week, to celebrate the birth of the USA. The residence featured a taste of everything American on the day, with hotdogs, burgers and American Football taking centre stage.

The residence, on 62 acres of ground was completed in 1776.

Built by Col John Blaquiere, chief secretary of the British government and bailiff of the Phoenix Park, it has been the home of the American ambassador to Ireland since 1928.

Extensive renovations to the house and property were made by the U.S. Government in 1952.

T he proper ty now consists of orchards and gardens on which are located three cottages and a gate lodge.

T he lower ground floor of the residence has a ballroom, reception and dining room, library, office, kitchen’s pantry, staff room and laundry.

Six suites which each have a bedroom, bathroom and dressing room, plus a sitting room are located on the upper floor.

The residence has furniture and equipment obtained in Ireland, the United States and many other countries.

This year, the staff of the American embassy in Ballsbridge, their families and assorted guests, American, Irish and other wise, were in attendance for the American national day.

Since Ambassador Rooney owns the most successful team in American Football history, the Pittsburgh

Steelers, it is hardly surprising that the showpiece event of the day should be a gridiron game.

The third Irish American Flag Football classic was played on a specially constructed pitch in what is, essentially, the ambassadors back yard.

The pitch, complete with American Football goalposts, two big screens, bleachers and impressive pitch markings that included a 4-metre wide ambassador’s seal at midfield.

Patrick McKenna and Alan Gallagher from Croke Park both put immense work, with their team.

They made sure the pitch was ready and up to the standard a man whose team plays in a $300 million, 65,000 seater stadium would expect.

There was much joking that the Rooneys could pay Croke Park back by securing a Steelers game for HQ in the future, as has long been rumoured, but official word on such a move is still not forthcoming.

The game itself is a non-contact version of the gridiron game.

Many players on both the defending Phoenix Park Pirates and challenging Dublin 8’s had never played the game before at all.

Not everyone, however, was a pigskin neophyte.

Taking the reins at quarterback for the 8’s was a young man by the name of Dan Rooney.

T h e a m b a s s a d o r ’s grandson has just finished a stint as the backup quarterback at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire and was coached on the 8’s by his uncle, Dan Rooney Jr. Along with some US Marines and other

embassy staff, both teams had a mix of newcomers and vets, with some Irish American Football players thrown into the mix as well.

The game itself started with the arrivals of the teams as announced

by Today FM spor ts reporter Paul Collins.

Then followed armed forces from both Ireland and the US marching the colour (or, on this day, color) before the singing of the national anthems.

Then, the game ball was delivered by --------------------------

‘The relationship between our two countries is stronger than ever...we never stopped imagining a brighter future’

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

US Ambassdor Dan Rooney

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

members of the Irish Parachute Club, who jumped from high over the residence.

A typically low-key arrival for such an event as this, then.

Game on The game itself was a thriller, with the young Rooney leading his team into an early lead by finding Joe Grey for an early touchdown, before finding Danny Ferens Jr, whose father is a member of the Steelers’ front office.

T he Phoenix Park Pirates, led by Eddie Goggins, were struggling to get into the rhythm as they sought to defend the crown which they wrestled

12 July 2012 GAZETTE 13

the American way - with football and hotdogs

freedom ring to a special friendship from the 8’s last year.

Just before half time, Shaun Douglas, a player with Castleknock’s own West Dublin Rhinos, caught a pass before weaving his way through the despairing reaches of the 8’s defence and in for a touchdown.

That left the score at 23-14 at the break.

At half-time, a group of youngsters from both Ireland and America took part in a smallsided game, thrilling the crowd in a 14-7 win for the 8’s.

T he Pirates would receive the ball to start the second period and after one play, Douglas had hauled his team back into the game.

The victorious Dublin 8’s team

The teams would go back and forth before the Pirates would level things with just under two minutes to go.

With consummate calmness, Rooney

showed why the family business was American Football and led his team into the endzone with just seconds to go.

In the end, joint-Most Valuable Player Ferens

would show why he is being highly touted for some major colleges in the States with a stunning interception to end the game.

With a presidential

election this year, it is unclear if this will be the last year of this event or whether Mr Rooney will be returned to the Chief Secretary’s Lodge by Barack Obama or Mitt Romney.

It is clear, however, that Rooney has the appetite to stay in the Phoenix Park, praising the strong relationship between the country of his birth and the nation of his heritage.

“Our relationship is stronger than ever,” he said before echoing the words of Barack Obama who, during his visit to Ireland last year, spoke of countries that have “never stopped imagining a brighter future”

“I have travelled all over Ireland and visited every county. US confidence in Ireland’s economy has never wavered and our investment in Ireland’s future remains strong,” Mr Rooney said.

In the end, all that was left to do was sit back and look at how well puttogether the day was.

Embassy staff had worked long and hard at producing a special day and they certainly succeeded.

Many in attendance, particularly those from this side of the pond, remarked at how over the top it all seemed, but were reminded swiftly that over the top is what America does.

CHARITY

Motor bike run for spina bifida AN annual motorbike charity run is set to take place later this month, when a group of motorcyclists will travel from Dublin to Tullamore in order to raise money for a very worthy cause.

A f ter a successful charity event last year, the fundraising motorcyclists “15 to 1” are set to hit the road again, but this year in aid of spina bifida.

The group is inviting any motorcyclists who wish to take part to come along and donate €20 towards the fundraiser.

Any motorcyclist who would like to join in the run is asked to meet at the Mansion House in Dublin at 9.30am on Sunday, July 29.

The run will officially start at 11am with refreshments available on arrival to Tullamore.

14 GAZETTE 12 July 2012

TOP 100 Author updates guide to our horticultural gems

Capital comes up roses in garden world I SUZANNE BYRNE

WICKLOW may be the Garden County – but Dublin’s gardens are still among the best in the country.

That’s according to writer Shirley Lanigan, who’s just published an updated edition of her book, The 100 Best Gardens in Ireland.

Airfield Garden in Dundr um, Ardgillan Demesne in Skerries and Dillon Garden in Ranelagh all make the grade

in her 100 best list, which has now been made available as a pocket guide for wandering garden enthusiasts.

T he latest edition explores the history of Ireland’s gardens, their design, flora, fauna and

includes interviews with owners, curators and gardeners themselves.

It’s also a great guide to practical information on fees and opening hours and quite simply bursts with information on the cornucopia of horticultural gems just waiting to be dug up.

Speaking to the Gazette, Lanigan explained her idea of what made a garden truly great.

“My favourite gardens are big wandering ones

Dublin’s gardens are still among the best in the country, according to writer Shirley Lanigan (left)

where you can get lost.

“Where you actually have to sort of turn left and right and go down laneways and tunnels.

For me, they’re the Mecca of great gardens,” she said.

“There’s an untamedness about the best of Irish gardens, they always give you the feeling it sort of happened by mistake.

“I think it’s because of all the rain our gardens tend to be extremely lush

and it’s easy for an Irish garden to develop a jungle-like feel – unlike British gardens where they go in for much more formality that’s more mannered and hemmed in.

Ireland’s a bit scruffier,” she said.

Explaining how she drew up the list, Lanigan said she initially made her selection from memor y and experience and then revisited the gardens. Some still made the grade – and

some didn’t.

“What I like now is the wall-planting. There’s a lot of good design now, using the walls of a new buildings as a vertical build – it gives you the chance to let plants look as if they have the upper hand.”

Of the Dublin gardens on her list, she said the Dillon garden was a particular wonder.

“It’s one woman and her husband’s garden.

There’s this most extraor-

dinarily beautiful garden behind their home. She really is an amazing woman with plants.”

As for the ideal recipient of the book, Lanigan said: “Anyone who likes to go out for a drive. Very often, you’ll pick one or two things. Though you’d be hard pressed to reproduce them.

“But we can all dream,” she said.

The 100 Best Gardens in Ireland is published

by Liberties Press.

Antibiotic use must be curbed, says study I SUZANNE BYRNE

SCIENTISTS are calling on the government to step up their current campaign to curb the use of antibiotics in humans and animal healthcare.

According to an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-funded report detailing new links between water quality and health, the problem of antibiotic resistant bacteria has become increasingly widespread.

The study, Enhancing Human Health through Improved Water Quality, demonstrates the extent to which acquired antimicrobial resistance in E. coli and Enterococci bacteria has spread in Ireland’s water sources.

Lead author of the

study Professor Martin Cormican told the Gazette the health risk lay in the fact that these bacteria, which live in humans and used to be sensitive to antibiotics – had now become resistant – primarily due to the overuse of antibiotics.

These bacteria are then spread between humans and animals through contaminated water sources – as well as other inter-animal contact, and can turn up in others that have not been on courses of antibiotics – thus accelerating their spread.

T he study fur ther details the potential role of intensive health care settings, such as hospitals as a focus for pharmaceutical and bacterial contaminants.

The hospital superbug MRSA is a strain of bacteria that has become resistant to conventional antibiotics.

Among the report’s key findings is a connection between heavy rainfall and sudden changes in water quality – as bacterial contamination gets washed into groundwater from farm sources and septic tanks.

Researchers have also stressed how poorlyprotected wells or water treatment facilities can have an adverse impact on the health of families and business owners.

In light of this, the report recommends the classification of water sources to highlight those at risk.

It further advises the

implementation of a total quality management systems approach to water treatment plants, where operational failure is identified as a major risk.

During the period o f t h e s t u d y, s o m e rural populations were exposed to piped water that was substantially contaminated with faeces all of the time, with the additional problem of exposure to E. coli that had an array of acquired antimicrobial resistance mechanisms.

It noted in this regard however, that overall improvement in drinking water quality was reported in the recent EPA report The Provision and Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland – a Report for the Year 2010.

12 July 2012 GAZETTE 15

CHAMPIONSHIPS 350 sailors set compass for title success

Sailing elite to drop anchor in Dun Laoghaire I SUZANNE BYRNE

THE cream of the world’s young sailors are set to drop anchor in Dun Laoghaire this week as the borough plays host to the International Sailing Federation’s (ISAF) World Youth Sailing Championships.

Dubbed the Youth Olympics of Sailing, the event is taking place in Ireland for the first time in its 42-year history at locations across Dun Laoghaire Harbour and Dublin Bay between July 13 and 20.

The 350 budding seafarers, all aged between 16 and 19, are representing 63 flags from across

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six continents.

Accompanied by 120 coaches, they will sail 250 boats across five classes in their race for the eight available world titles.

Brian Craig, who’s chairing the event, told the Gazette the organising committee first made its application to host the championships back in 2008 and faced stiff competition from six other countries.

T he key factor in their successful bid, he believes, was that Dun Laoghaire “had it all”: “A marina, plenty of hotels, a yacht club – all within short walking distance – while other venues may have had two of these,

but not a third.”

Organisers hope the championships will bring €5 million into the local economy with 100,000 visitors expected to attend over the duration.

Along with the competitive events, the weeklong championships, sponsored by Four Star Pizza, will double up as a music and cultural festival, offering visitors the chance to peruse market stalls, enjoy street music and take in the bracing sea air on a trip around Dublin Bay. The opening ceremony takes place on July 13 at 7.30pm and will be addressed by Tanaiste

The cream of the world’s young sailors are set to drop anchor in Dun Laoghaire for the International Sailing Federation’s (ISAF) World Youth Sailing Championships

and local TD Eamon Gilmore (Lab), Cathaoirleach Cllr Tom Joyce (FG) and ISAF President Goran Petersson at the Harbour.Plaza.

The welcoming of the teams will be followed by the ceremonial raising of the championships flag and the mixing of the waters brought from the homelands of the 63

competing nations.

The ISAF World Sailing Championships have long provided the world with its first glimpse of future sailing stars and Olympians – with 15 of the competitors who won medals at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games past medallists at the youth championships.

Expected to top the medal table this year are the French, New Zealanders, Americans, English and Spanish – although local girl Sophie Murphy from the Royal St George Yacht Club in Dun Laoghaire is thought to be in the running in her category, the Laser Radial Girls.

The week’s events will

conclude with a fireworks display which will crown the closing ceremony.

After the medals are awarded, the official flag will be lowered in readiness to be handed over to Cyprus who host the event next year.

For further information on the events logon to http://www.dlrcoco.ie/

16 GAZETTE 12 July 2012

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY Getting the perfect smile in just a day GETTING the perfect smile could take just one day, thanks to a revolutionary treatment by a Blackrock clinic.

Seapoint Clinic launched a brand new product that will revolutionise treatment for denture wearers or those with broken or missing teeth.

Teeth in a Day is a clinically proven product that allows patients to have their smile transformed in one day.

This clinic is the only clinic in Ireland offering this treatment, which is proving quite popular in the UK and USA. Typically, when a patient decides to have implants to replace missing or decayed teeth they could be waiting six months, and have to wear temporary dentures in the interim, causing discomfort and unease. This new procedure means that appointments which normally take place over a six month period are condensed into one visit.

For further information and prices at Seapoint Clinic check out on www.seapointclinic.ie or phone 1800 92 7770.

Edited by Laura Webb

Fashion week celebrates four unknown stylists HE finale of eBay Online Fashion Week ended on a high thanks to four unknown stylists who were chosen to style the end of week catwalk show, Ireland’s first eBay fashion show at Smock Alley Theatre.

L e a n n e Wo o d f u l l , Gavin Norton, Laura O’Brien and Roisin Flanagan were handpicked by TV personality fashion guru Darren Kennedy, founder of helpmystyle. ie.

The four young stylists were given the chance to showcase their style ideas by creating three of this summer’s hottest trends for the catwalk show.

The trends included sport luxe, printastic and tea party. Each stylist used clothes from eBay’s fashion gallery.

Gavin Norton’s take on preppy chic for men combined varsity jackets with bow-tie suits and mixed a patterned slim fitting trouser (€31) with a cardigan (€22) – adding a leather varsity jacket to prep up this look (€46).

Laura O’Brien nailed the tea party look keep-

T

ing it feminine and sweet.

One of her looks showcased a cute yet stylish peter pan-collared, orange polka dot dress (€22) teamed perfectly with a flower headband (€7) to give it that summer chic feel.

A printastic themed look by Leanne Woodfull stuck to the brief by highlighting a Versace print shirt (€42). She themed the amazing summer printed shirt with retro denim shorts (€12) and a simple black belt (€65).

The printed scarf used as a headband, added to the look giving it a real 80s feel.

Roisin Flanagan made sports clothes look luxurious. One of her looks teamed a baseball vest (€31) with a black leather skirt (€22), turning a top usually associated with lounging around into a sport luxe statement piece.

Over 300 fashionista’s took to their seats at the finale show recently including make-up artist Joanne Larby and Kellie Dalton of Burberry.

Not only did the show delight the Irish audience, but it was viewed

Trendsetters Gavin Norton, Leanne Woodfull, Laura O’Brien and Roisin Flanagan (top) and their creations

by thousands who watched through a live stream online from areas like Singapore, USA and Italy.

Commenting on the event, eBay’s Laura Wilkinson said “eBay.

ie’s Online Fashion Week celebrated everything about Irish fashion and enabled everyone to be involved. The fashion talks engaged the live and online audience with over 500 Twitter interac-

tions and questions posted to the industry insiders. Showcasing emerging talent of Ireland’s upcoming stylists was a great end to the week.”

The upcoming stylists were applauded for

their work and looked like they were having the time of their life.

To watch any of the talks or the fashion show go to: http://www. youtube.com/user/ eBayIEofficial

Always be ‘photo ready’ with Revlon’s affordable foundation BE photo ready with Revlon’s affordable foundation that is light enough, yet tough enough, to stay intact all day and night.

Whether you plan to stay in, or enjoy a night out on the town, Revlon’s PhotoReady make-up (€19.40) will stay on skin through even the hottest summer days and nights.

ColorBurst Lip Butter in Tested under the harshest lights Lollipop and high-definition camera lenses, PhotoReady Makeup the make-up provides poreless, airin Shell brushed skin in any light. According to its makers, the PhotoReady foundation contains “photochromatic pigments that bend and PhotoReady Eye Primer reflect light to help erase any flaw”. and Brightener

It also contains SPF 20, protecting the skin from sun damage.

This product is also extremely easy to apply, so anyone who doesn’t have a foundation brush will love this foundation. Just press the pump to disperse formula – two to three times is enough – then apply with fingertips. Start at the center of the face and blend outwards. Once applied, users immediately notice the soft luminous finish. It’s fragrance and oil free.

This product is available in four colours – Shell, Nude, Natural Beige and Cool Beige.

For anyone who might need a little help with a more even and

smooth complexion, then try Revlon’s PhotoReady primers. The Perfecting Primer (€19) is for anyone who thinks pores and fine lines are an issue. It can be used alone for a more even and smooth complexion or as a great surface area for make-up application under Revlon’s PhotoReady foundation.

Anyone who wants to reduce the appearance of lines and creases on lids and under eyes should try the Revlon PhotoReady Eye Primer and Brightener (€14.80). It brightens the entire eye area and ensures eye shadows and concealers stay in place.

Meanwhile, Revlon are giving lips a burst of colour with their lip

butter. The ColourBurst lip butter (€11.25) softens and hydrates lips, which is a much needed ingredient during warm weather and cold weather periods. This lip butter glides on easily and leaves lips with the great long-lasting colour. There are seven shades available including: Peach Parfait, Cotton Candy, Candy Apple, Tutti Frutti, Lollipop, Strawberry Shortcake and Sweet Tart. Test out the whole range and find the perfect colour to make the perfect pout. For the month of July, this product is reduced to €7 at participating stores.

Revlon products are available at pharmacies nationwide.

12 July 2012 GAZETTE 17

SNAPSHOT The local stories of the day

Tall Ships are coming TO mark the first day of the International Tall Ships Races, “First Mate” Keith Duffy was joined recently at Grand Canal Square by Minister for Tourism Leo Varadkar and Dublin’s newly elected Lord Mayor Naoise O Muiri (FG).

The Bugle Babes, a 1940s-style vocal trio, provided the music as details were announced of the line-up for the capital’s free four-day festival this August 23-26.

The fleet of 50 ships, which sets sail from St Malo, France, for the first race in the series, arrives into Dublin – final host port in the race – for what promises to be this summer’s biggest floating festival.

One of the most anticipated nautical events of the year, the Tall Ships Races 2012, which is supported by the Polish city of Szczecin and organised by Sail Train-

ing International, docks in Dublin on Thursday, August 23, when the city is expected to come alive with a festival atmosphere both on and off the water.

Local organisers, Dublin City Council and Dublin Port Company, are delighted that Dublin was chosen as the final host port for this year ’s race and have programmed an impressive entertainment line-up to cater for all tastes.

Minister Leo Varadkar commented: “It’s great to see the Tall Ships Races back in Ireland again, following a highly successful visit last year.

This fantastic event is set to attract thousands of people into the capital.

“It’s a rare opportunity to see so many of these great ships against Dublin’s striking city skyline.

Events like this are very important for tourism

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

Managing Director: Michael McGovern email:mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Acting News Editor: Rob Heigh email: mmurray@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater email: sport@gazettegroup.com Picture Editor: Paul Hosford email: picturedesk@gazettegroup.com Ad Manager: Louise Fitzgerald email: lfitzgerald@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements

Lord Mayor of Dublin Naoise O Muiri (FG), Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Leo Varadkar, and ‘First Mate’ Keith Duffy at Grand Canal Square in Dublin as they announce details of the The Tall Ships Races 2012

companies and I’d like to congratulate everyone involved in bringing it to Dublin. It’s fun, it’s free of charge and open to everyone.”

Over the week, there

will be music with Ash and the Undertones set to perform on the Bulmers Music Stage along with other high-profile music acts as part of the spectacular free four-day

line-up. The Bulmer’s Music Stage will host a jam-packed line-up of performances from some of Ireland’s hottest upcoming acts to musical stalwarts.

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

18 GAZETTE 12 July 2012

R1

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS Listening to what the client wants Supported

by AIB

Interview: David ‘Warren’ Venter, owner, David Warren Hair And Beauty, Kinsealy

THE COMPLEX WORLD OF INVESTMENT: PART 2

Continued from last week’s Gazette Business

Keeping it simple therefore, uncluttered and easy to understand is the key for the average investor.

What is also key is that changing nature of investment. Currently government bonds have been the star performers over the last few volatile years.

However, they cannot continue to perform as they have and therefore having the flexibility to be able to swap into a different investment vehicle without cost and without fuss is essential.

First things first – work out what is your attitude to risk. On a scale of one to five, where one is lower risk and five is higher risk, where are you ?

Once you have established this risk attitude, then the choices become a little clearer. One option launched recently is Standard Life’s MyFolio funds where you simply choose between one of the five funds that match five risk levels. Each fund is designed to maximise potential returns within the investor’s chosen risk level and is then monitored, reviewed and actively managed by the investment team in Standard Life.

Based on the same scale of one to five, each MyFolio of multi-asset funds is risk based. Originally launched in Britain over 20 months ago, the fund has so far attracted over €1b with 40% invested in the MyFolio 3 (the balanced choice) and c. 20% each in the MyFolio 2 (lower to medium risk) and MyFolio 4 (medium to higher risk). Annual management charges range from 1.15% for model 1 to 1.35% for model 5 and for those wanting to see precisely the make up of every investment in these models, you can access the factsheets on www.standardlife.ie or email me for the factsheets.

This type of investment is not suitable for those investors who do not wish to take any risk on their money.

Contact John with your money questions at

jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

DAVID “Warren” Venter has been in love with hairdressing since 1985, and says that the one thing he loves the best is the everchanging trends and interesting people he meets.

He says: “It never gets boring. Over the years, I have worked on photo shoots, fashion shows and TV productions. I have worked for a leading hair care company as an educator.

“If I had to sum up all my experience in one word, it would be the word that I start all my training with, and that word is: Listen.”

David adds: “When you listen to the wants and needs of the client – and I mean really listen – the client will tell you all you need to know to meet all of her or his requirements.”

On building up an extremely successful business and name, he says: “I have been in Ireland for 11 years now, and I have embraced this opportunity [to establish my business] with both hands. “[For our clients], a good experience and advice is what I base my career on.

“As well as good hairdressing, I will be offering a range of beauty services.”

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

A: A postman, because postmen could ride on the bus for free

African army I started hairdressing

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

.com

www.

group

hairdressing and is also diversifying into beauty services too

Q&A

Q: What was your first job?

A: After two years in the South

gazette

Known as ‘Warren’, South African David Venter has established himself as a leading name in

Q: And your first firs pay cheque?

A: Although it’s all relative,

look good

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

A: Where possible, answering the phone

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: What’s that?

Q: What sport can you play?

A: As a challenge, I was told

cheque was €6 a my first pay ch month

to bounce a golf ball off a tree on the other side of the field, which I did on the first swing.

I think I am a natural.

Q: Have you ev ever done a job you loathed?

A: No.

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

A: Classical music, and horror

Q: When did you yo start your present job?

A: I started hair hairdressing in 1985

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Making a client feel and

movies, all the way

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

A: David Norris, of course Q: What music/pictures/mov-

ies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: A serious mixture of music for me: Rory Gallagher, Lady Gaga, Madonna, Tony Bennett – you name it, I’ve got it

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Lady Gaga. I love the looks.

Proof that changing the way you look and dress changes the way people see you.

Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update?

A: Sanctuary Hair and Beauty all the way

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Pasta all the way Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna?

A: Dame Edna – because she is real

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Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Shoe and stationery shops Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Last count, including slippers – about 106. (I have a thing...)

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: None at all. I try to make the best of every situation.

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Going to South Africa to see my family, who I haven’t seen for about eight years

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: I have my dream job Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: Look for a job ...

LOCAL

MATTERS

12 July 2012 GAZETTE 19

TIPP HAS IT ALL P20

UNIQUE PILGRIMAGES P22

SUMMER HOME & ABROAD.....FOR ALL THE FAMILY

TOP CLASS DESTINATIONS P22

GETAWAYS!

JULY 2012

FastTravel Summer sale offers even more reasons for a car-cation

Whether travelling alone or with your loved ones, the Costa Daurada – “the golden coast” – is an increasingly popular Spanish treasure

SPAIN: THE DELIGHTFUL COSTA DAURADA IS A FAMILY FAVOURITE

Make golden memories HOL I DAY M A K E R S have been flocking to Spain from Dublin, and the island of Ireland, for many years now, with a holiday in Spain still delighting families and holidaymakers of all ages.

With so many sundrenched beaches, historic cities, cultural sites and remarkable scenery to take in, some holidaymakers might almost fear they have too much choice when trying to find a great holiday in Spain.

However, one thing is for certain – with so many

wonderful resorts and regions to visit, you’re virtually guaranteed of having a wonderful holiday, whatever part of Spain you visit.

Catalonia remains one of Spain’s most popular regions for Irish holidaymakers – and with good reason, given the area’s mixture of sights and resorts.

Catalonia’s Costa Daurada (literally,“the golden coast”) is a particularly family-friendly destination that has become increasingly popular with Irish holidaymakers, with families comprising 60%

of visitors to the region.

Hotels there are particularly in tune with family needs, with hotels and restaurants offering high chairs and nappychanging tables.

T he area’s leisure options are endless, and include a wide range of facilities to help visitors enjoy the perfect day at the beach, from children’s play areas to the sand itself, with such delights as outdoor libraries to relax with a good book, or shops renting equipment for water sports.

The Costa Daurada’s natural resources mean

visitors can go for relaxing strolls or bring the kids for one of the area’s many exciting excursions.

There are also a wide range of activities and adventure sports for young people, helping to cement the area’s appeal for visitors of all ages.

All services are designed with families in mind, meaning that the resulting accommodation venues, restaurants, infrastructure and theme parks will guarantee that a family stay in Costa Daurada is set to be the most pleasurable family

experience of the year.

So, for golden memories, and for a wonderful holiday in Spain, whether for a first-time or experienced visitor alike, the Costa Daurada promises you a wonderful holiday.

For further information on the Costa Daurada, and on one of Spain’s most enchanting regions, as well as information on hotels and activities, see www.costadaurada.info, w w w.costadauradaevents.com or www.terresdelebre.travel (selecting the English language site versions, where necessary).

KIDS will go half-price this summer with Stena Line, which have launched a summer sale offering families even more reasons to enjoy a carcation this summer.

This latest offer is available on all crossings with Ireland’s leading ferry company, from both Dublin Port to Holyhead and Rosslare to Fishguard, with children travelling from only €8.50 for a single fare. Children apply to 15 years and younger, while infants travel for free.

This offer is available on travel up until August 31 when booked by July 12, and fares are subject to availability. For further information on the latest sale offers, click on www.stenaline.ie, call 01 204 7777, or visit your local travel agent.

Enjoy a weekend of wellbeing and escape to County Carlow IF THERE has ever been an excuse to escape the daily duties of everyday life, it appears Sandbrook House in Co Carlow may be just that.

The period country home has come up with the ideal break away with a weekend of well-being this August, where you are invited to stretch, strengthen and meditate your way to pure relaxation with sessions of yoga, pilates and meditation in the stunning Carlow setting.

From August 17 to 19, Sandbrook House are hosting a Wellness Retreat in the tranquil and picturesque surroundings. Set on 25 acres of mature parkland, it is the ideal place to forget the stresses of daily life.

As well as classes given by talented instructor Rachel Gaffey, founder of MyWellbeing. ie, guests will also enjoy breakfast, lunch and evening meals packed with home-cooked, local, organic vegetarian food and a cookery demonstration full of delicious recipes that will help you to maintain your healthy lifestyle at home.

To take a proper weekend break and retreat to Sandbrook House, call Rachel Gaffey on 086 845 3864 or visit www.sandbrook.ie

20 GAZETTE 12 July 2012

SUMMER GETAWAYS! Enjoy a couple’s break away in magnificent Cavan ENJOY a child free zone with a Couple’s Retreat at Radisson Blu Farnham Estate, Cavan, this summer. Located in the heart of a magnificent estate just 3km from Cavan town, the Radisson Blu Farnham Estate is a contemporary and stylish hotel, full of country charm and character, surrounded by natural beauty among acres of rolling countryside.

To enjoy a break away this summer, the Radisson Blu is offering the Ultimate Couple’s Package with spa treatments and lunch as well as one night’s accommodation. Start the experience with a gommage marine scrub on the hamman table before a relaxing hydrotherapy bath to leave you refreshed and relaxed. Next, you will both enjoy the serial mud chamber, where you are covered in mud as the chamber gradually warms.

As the mud dries, it removes toxins from the skin.

Steam then gently fills the chamber to soften the mud, before a warm shower is dispensed from the ceiling to wash away the mud, leaving your skin feeling luxuriously soft and smooth. Complete this wonderful experience with a massage each side by side. The Couple’s Retreat includes overnight luxury accommodation and super buffet breakfast from €210 per person sharing midweek/€235.00 per person sharing at weekends. For more information or to book, visit www.farnhamestate.ie or call 049 4377700.

Tipperary’s Glen of Aherlow offers stunning views and fantastic walking trails and the Aherlow House Hotel (right)

GLEN OF AHERLOW: ENJOY THE FRIENDLY AND INVITING ATMOSPHERE

Tipp has it all for a top trip away from the city I DAVE PHILLIPS

THERE seems to be a predisposition towards heading for the sea when

looking for an escape from the city.

Perhaps the attraction is part and parcel of being an island nation; or maybe it is down to the fact that for many people, the quaint coastal towns and villages of the West offer the kind of low-key, slow-living comforts that can’t be found in the city.

Until recently, I was part of the drove that left the inland counties largely unexplored in my quest for a country break, but after stumbling upon Tipperary’s Glen of Aherlow, I’m a card-carrying convert.

Set between the Galtee Mountains and Slievenamuch in South Tipperary, the Glen of Aherlow is just a short trip off the M8, making it a relatively painless journey from Dublin.

We’d arranged to stay at the Aherlow House Hotel, which with its ivy-laden exterior and overflowing flower bas-

kets, comfortably melds into the lush green surrounds. As well as a large restaurant and bar, the hotel offers self-catering options in purpose-built lodges, making it a popular wedding venue.

Located on the cusp of the Glen of Aherlow Natural Park, it’s also a top spot for walkers, acting as a great base for the more challenging peaks of the Galtees, as well as for the multitude of gentler loop walks.

If putting your feet up is more appealing than putting them into boots, you won’t be disappointed. The hotel is charming and the abundant little touches – freshly baked cakes along with the newspapers in the room – go to show that real effort has been made to facilitate a relaxing experience.

Gastronomically, Aherlow House Hotel is special. The recently recruited head chef, Jose Vega,

has brought culinary flair honed in his native France to locally procured produce. The result is an amazing menu that is simultaneously elegant and earthy. Particularly tasty was the braised fillet of Aherlow river trout, served with vegetables in a Sancerre butter sauce; and a wonderfully tender fillet of beef from the nearby Lewis farm.

After dinner we traded the mountain views of the Treetop Restaurant for the open fire and cosy confines of the Hunting Lodge Bar, which serves as a watering spot for both guests and the surrounding community. As it was a Friday night, some of the locals were set up next to us for a small seisun. The relaxed atmosphere (and a Bulmers or two) had us pitching in on a few songs, after which we got talking to Michael Moroney, the Glen’s resident walking guide.

Having taken in an

early morning walk, we discovered the hotel can arrange plenty more activities, including fishing, golf trips, equestrian outings, heritage tours, or a trip to Mandy Parslow, the local potter. Aherlow House Hotel is full of character and characters.

Outdoor enthusiasts will be in their element; food-lovers will be intensely satisfied; history and heritage buffs will enjoy its close proximity to Cashel and Cahir castle, as well as the multitude of smaller glimpses of history that can be gleaned from the area.

Maybe it’s down to the stunning location, or perhaps it’s that sense of community pride seeping into everything that happens at Aherlow House Hotel – whatever the cause, you’re bound to enjoy the honest, friendly and inviting atmosphere.

For rates and specials see: www.aherlowhouse. ie

12 July 2012 GAZETTE 21

22 GAZETTE 12 July 2012

SUMMER GETAWAYS!

Get more from your pilgrimage I NATALIE BURKE

FOR anyone interested in adding a little extra to the run-of-the-mill pilgrimage, Joe Walsh Tours Pilgrimage and Sun Holidays are offering you the chance to not only soak up the unique atmosphere and spirituality found in the ever popular shrines of Italy’s San Giovanni Rotondo and Benevento, Portugal’s Fatima or Medjugorje in Bosnia Herzegovina, but also to embrace the sunshine and

St James’s Church, Medjugorje

local cultures in the idyllic coastal settings of Alba Adriatica, Sorrento, Lisbon Coast or Dubrovnik.

The unique combination of a religious and sun holiday allows you to spend three or four days

on a peaceful pilgrimage before moving on to a calming holiday by sandy, sun soaked beaches.

Departures from Dublin this summer include a four-night pilgrimage in Fatima, followed by three nights in Estoril at €649 per person, leaving Dublin on July 26, August 23 or August 30 for seven nights. The pilgrimage from Dublin departing on August 31 includes a one night stay at Benevento, three nights in San Giovanni Rotondo and three

nights in Sorrento, priced at €824 per person plus tax, while the pilgrimage departing on September 17 will take you to Alba Adriatica for four nights and to San Giovanni Rotondo for three nights.

The seven night trip is €784 per person plus tax.

All prices include direct flights with Aer Lingus from Dublin, one standard piece of check-in luggage subject to airline’s conditions, all transfers and tours by luxury airconditioned coach, a full religious programme and services of a Joe Walsh Tours representative throughout the tour.

For further information, visit www.joewalshtours. ie or call 01 241 0800.

Kevin’s class gets him to top: New head chef at Herbert Park Hotel KEVIN Ramen, has been recently promoted to head chef at the

four-star Herbert Park Hotel, Ballsbridge. Kevin is originally from Mauritius and has worked at Herbert Park Hotel since 2006. He had previously worked in various hotels in Mauritius before moving to Ireland.

TRAVELMOOD: BEAUTIFUL LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE

Top class destinations I NATALIE BURKE

FROM the tropical sands of Thailand to exclusive shopping in Dubai, Travelmood are giving you the chance to explore some of the world’s most beautiful locations this summer while staying in top class resorts around the globe.

Stay in the three-star Golden Sands Apartments in Dubai for five nights from only €693 per person.

Placed at the heart of fashionable Bur Dubai, visit the exclusive shopping malls, the Dubai Museum, the fashionable night spots and the new Metro Junction.

Departing from Dublin on September 7, the price includes return f l i g h t s , f i ve n i g h t s ’ accommodation on a B&B basis, taxes and charges.

Visit the four-star Viva Wyndham Maya resort in Mexico for seven nights on an all

inclusive basis from just €935 per person.

Be immersed in pristine beaches and coral reefs while being just five minutes from bars, restaurants and the shops of Playa del Carmen.

Departing from Dublin on December 6, prices include return f lights, seven nights’ accommodation, taxes and charges.

Relax at the five-star Anantara Resort and Spa in T hailand for seven nights on a B&B basis, followed by the four-star Bel-Aire Princess for three nights on a B&B basis from only €999 per person.

The luxurious seclusion of the Anantara Hua Hin Resort is reminiscent of an ancient Thai village, surrounded by tropical gardens and private beaches as well as being just a short distance from Hua Hin’s best golf courses and the lively town centre.

Antara Resort and Spa

Departing from Dublin on September 6, prices include return flights, 10 nights’ accommodation, taxes and charges.

The final offer invites you to stay at the fourstar Cape Town Ritz Hotel for seven nights B&B for just €999 per person.

The price also includes return flights, taxes and charges and departs from Dublin on November 2.

Stay at the modern Ritz resort, just 300m from the beach.

Dine at The Top of the Ritz, Cape Town’s only revolving restaurant and consider the option of adding a unique Safari experience to your trip.

For more information on these offers or to book, visit www.travelmood.ie, call their team on 01 4331020 or visit the Travelmood store in Duke Street, Dublin 2.

12 July 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 23

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access to all resort facilities start from €540 per apartment per stay (maximum 2 adults & 3 children per apartment).

Your family will be spoilt for choice with the selection of on site activities. The popular Kids Club Fun Club runs each week (Mon to Sat) up to the 28th August 2012 where the little ones can enjoy Arts & Crafts Classes, Fun Fit, Giant Games, Basketball, Table Tennis, Bouncy Castle & Hip Hop Dance. Tennis Court, Family Movies, Fishing, wii room, walking track & much more!

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the Resort, families can explore a range of funfilled days out including; the National Stud & Japanese Gardens, Outlet Shopping at Kildare Village, Lullymore Heritage Park, Emo Court, Pet Farm along with exploring the wild & wonderful Laois Countryside and nearby horse-riding.

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To book & enquire please call 057 8645500, www. theheritage.com

24 SWORDS GAZETTE 12 July 2012

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

GoingOUT THE PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Singing Nina

SINGING Nina is the fabulous new show brought to you by the Chicago Jazz Queen, Karen Underwood and her band. Karen brings to you in narration and song the engrossing life story of the great legend Nina Simone, from her struggle against racism and exile from her homeland to her flamboyant and troubled relationships and her poignant life. Karen sings all the classic Nina songs, Mississippi Goddamn, Sinnerman and My Baby supported by a live band. For one show only, July 13 at 8pm, tickets are priced at €18/16.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Somewhere under the Rainbow THIS award winning, one woman, musical theatre extravaganza has captured audiences around the country.

Now, in preparation for the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Biscuits for Breakfast are delighted to bring “Liza” to the Mill Theatre for one more performance before she leaves these shores. Sharon Sexton’s Liza recounts stories, memories and secrets that make up a fascinating career and an even more intriguing personal life. As she belts her way through Minnelli’s infamous song book, the audience are invited beyond the footlights. July 14 at 8pm. Admission: €20.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 462 7477 Johnnie’s Britches BEEZNEEZ, the popular company that brought you Tuesdays with Morrie and Don’t Dress for Dinner return to the Civic with a lovely old Irish comedy, Johnnie’s Britches.

A runaway, nationwide hit when first produced in the 1940s, Beezneez bring their distinctive production values to this gentle comedy of another time. Anxious to be rid of their accident prone servant girl, Ned and Bridget are willing to allow her to be married to almost anybody, including Johnnie. July 13 and 14 at 8pm. Admission: €20/16.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 The Connect Club 2012 THIS July, Draíocht is delighted to be back, once again, working with the Daughters of Charity’s Summer Camp The Connect Club in Laurel Lodge. The summer camp is filled with social and recreational activities catering for young people with varying degrees of intellectual disability, with the aim of providing an outlet that is fun and focused on the individual’s likes and interests.

Jack (Mark Duplass) learns a harsh lesson when the two ladies say that they are “fine”.

Sisters are doing it Carefully constructed, tenderly performed and wellwritten, Your Sister’s Sister just never catches fire I PAUL HOSFORD

YOU don’t get a lot for $120,000 these days.

The moderate sum is barely enough to fund a purchase at a distress auction, never mind a film that would capture the imagination the week that SpiderMan swings back into action.

That is the challenge set for Your Sister’s Sister, the follow-up to Lynn Shelton’s Humpday, which was one of the finest comedy dramas of recent years.

I n t h a t f i l m , t wo men drunkenly agree to make an adult film together and are faced with the prospect of going through with it because of their male pride.

In this film, Shelton has brought Humpday star Mark Duplass back, but left the naughtiness behind.

She instead has made

FILM OF THE WEEK: Your Sister’s Sister ### (15) 90 mins Director: Lynn Shelton Starring: Emily Blunt, Mark Duplass, Rosemarie DeWitt, Mark Birbiglia

OUR VERDICT:

IT’S a good film. There is no doubt about that. But, and it’s hard to put my finger on why, it just doesn’t feel complete. It’s a welltold, interesting story and a neat look at a very complex set of relationships and some deeply flawed people. Shelton deserves credit for her writing, but the third act lets the film down.

a very similar film, but for women.

Instead of pornography, male pride and machismo, the issues of sibling relationships, love and who can or cannot make a good parent.

All in all, it is refreshing film-making in that it’s made for very little, but still manages to be engaging in a way that many big-budget films are not.

But, coming af ter such a film as Humpday, it almost feels like a let-down.

Although Humpday was not Shelton’s debut,

this film feels like the quintessential “difficult second album” in that it tries to hit the same notes as its predecessor when a unique take would be more welcome.

T his is less Neon Bible than it is whatever The Darkness’ second album was called.

A c t u a l l y, c o m p a ring the film with The Darkness is unfair as it is credible, likeable and put together by extremely talented people who all seem lovely.

Loveliest of them all is Emily Blunt, currently stretching her main-

stream legs in The Five Year Engagement.

Here, Blunt plays Iris, who in an effort to help her best friend Jack out of mourning for his brother, suggests he take a trip to her parents’ secluded cabin.

There, he stumbles across Iris’s lesbian sister Hannah. A night of dr unken passion between the two triggers an unexpected entanglement of relationships when Iris suddenly arrives at the cabin the next day.

From there, the film becomes an interesting and somewhat caustic look at what makes relationships tick and, honestly, whether men and women can ever be truly just friends.

Although the cast is experienced and likeable, the film just fails to fire. Whereas Humpday felt like its 90 minutes sped through, there is the sense that ever y

sinew is being strained to haul Your Sister’s Sister to the finish line.

When it is good, however, it is very good, and when Shelton is on form, there aren’t many directors who capture the human condition as readily.

At the heart of it all, comes Shelton’s seemingly unshakable faith in people. She genuinely seems to like her characters, flaws and all.

Shelton gives Duplass, star of the criminally overlooked The League, the best lines and he seems as close to a muse as the director has, but DeWitt and Blunt carry a neat three-hander to its inevitable, and welltelegraphed conclusion.

It won’t change lives, but this is neatly positioned counter-pro gramming to the spandex, swinging and webshooting.

12 July 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING Bytesandpieces A spacewalk could be a cake walk HERE’S one of those “Ronseal” IOS games – you know, they do exactly what it says on the tin or, more exactly, what the title says – in the form of Astronaut Spacewalk.

Here, a deep-sea diver has 24 hours to uncover a global conspiracy involving cats, a secret Soviet undersea base, a rusty codex from 1640 and a deadly female French assassin who – Nah, only kidding – it really is just what the title suggests, as you take an astronaut on a spacewalk through a variety of orbital missions.

It’s a pretty simple idea, yet executed with style and, um, precision. Precision? Yes, indeed, as precision is key to the title, as you guide an astronaut on their spacewalk by tapping to release just the right amounts of gas, while considering your direction and inertia, as well as suit power reserves.

After all, one wrong tap in the wrong direction could send you drifting serenely towards, say, Madagascar on the planet below – and your certain death, helplessly following a trajectory away from the space shuttle docking bay.

A neat little title executed with flair, Astronaut Spacewalk is available on iTunes.

Although Solid Snake’s adventures in the Metal Gear series have taken him around the world and through several decades, Snake – and his younger self (inset) – has always been wearily fighting what amounts to the same battle, as he has fought against Man’s casual willingness to corrupt, rule and destroy others ...

Snake keeps growing I SHANE DILLON

I NOTICED this week that one of gaming’s Grand Old Men – in the grizzled, scarred, battleweary and cynical form of Solid Snake, chief protagonist of the endlessly-reinventing, multiplatform and cross-genre Metal Gear series – is now 25 years old.

Well, I mean, the series is now that old, but Snake himself is much older, as befitting someone who’s been around the block in his day.

That “day” has jumped around, with Snake’s adventures playing out in eras ranging from the 1960s to the present day, through contemporary settings with wildly different global politics at play to slightly-futuristic places with impossible tech and gadgets.

A true cross-platform character, Snake’s been caught up in the coldest of Cold War realpolitik scenarios; fought fringe terrorist groups that were backed covertly by global superpowers;

tackled paranoia and rogue international agencies attempting to subvert political processes; uncovered – and buried – bizarre secrets at one hidden base or secret location after another; saved the world, lost allies and fought former comrades – you name it, Snake has wiggled his way through one high-stakes drama after another.

Although largely presented as a curious blend of James Bond, Snake Plissken, Robert Fisk and a masterless samurai,

Boxing clever with a brilliantly daft camouflage idea LEST readers think that picking up any of the Metal Gear games is about as light-hearted as a three-hour lecture on Middle-East politics, the series has always had a dash of pure slapstick, such as in its brilliantly daft idea for camouflage – the cardboard box.

Yes indeed, when patrolling a topsecret military base full of guards on high alert, mere hours before an illicit nuclear launch is due against the world’s main cities, every self-respecting master infiltrator needs the perfect fools-everybody disguise: an ordinary cardboard box to hide under.

Simply by slipping a cardboard box over his head, and then inching/darting around playing the old “Huh? Did something just move?” game with confused nearby guards, Snake is generally able to sneak on by.

True, my attempts to sneak around, and then out of The Gazette an hour or two early in this fashion haven’t quite worked out as well, but it remains a fondlyremembered gaming sight to see, regardless.

Snake has remained one of gaming’s most complex, yet popular, characters.

This, despite the Metal Gear games’ tendencies to practically slap players about the head with political commentary as the game plays out.

For example, one moment could find Snake creeping through the engine room of a hijacked container ship carrying biological bombs deep into the heart of a bustling city – the next, a 20-minute cut-scene could play out, as Snake, and others, discuss over his radio link European foreign policies in the 1970s, and the complex ties between the military, commercial and political wings of, say, China.

At least you can always count on regular breaks to go and make a cuppa, then.

It’s all pretty farout, headscratch-

ingly complex (and, quite simply, frequently daft) stuff, and can feel more like an abstract commentary on global politics, and The Way Things Work, than being just, you know, a game.

All of this heavy-hitting wackiness has largely been down to the legendary figure of Hideo Kojima, the singularly-focused figure who’s driven Snake, and sidekicks, on across the years, with each new adventure becoming increasingly out-there.

Still, Snake’s adventures have remained highly popular, as Kojima-san has always driven the games along with plenty of conventional gaming tropes, from stealth sections to all-out blazing action set-pieces.

While occasionally irritatingly dense to wade through, as well as covering stuff that even a conspiracy theorist would roll his eyes at, here’s hoping that Snake’s maverick adventures in the Metal Gear universe keep growing for many more years.

GAZETTE

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 12 July 2012

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12 July 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

FEILE FEVER: Dublin plays host to annual U-14 festival of hurling Page 28 and 29

GOLF: DORAN BRINGS MCELROY’S IRISH SENIOR CLOSE REIGN TO AN END IN BUNCLODY

Donabate woman reaches Senior Close final four sport@gazettegroup.com

D O N A BAT E ’ S P a t Doran played superbly but was just pipped at the semi-final stage of the ILGU Irish Senior women’s close championship at Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club last week.

Playing eventual winner Helen Jones, from Strabane, she was undone on the 21st hole of her final four tie last Thursday to agonisingly miss out.

Jones had earlier produced a stunning comeback. She was dormie two down against Doran but showed her true fighting spirit to win both the 17th and 18th with pars and bring the match down tie holes where she eventually won out on the 21st.

A r o u n d e a r l i e r, Doran had knocked out defending champions Sheena McElroy, from Grange, who had put up a gallant defence of her title and a three in a

row record.

Doran has been knocking at the door in recent years and she maintained her composure in an edgy match to win with a par on the 18th while McElroy found the water left of the home green.

McElroy had earlier dismissed Killarney’s Mar y Geaney on an emphatic 6&5 scoreline to show she was in rude form.

The Island’s Gertie McMullen was another

Donabate’s Pat Doran reached the semi-final of this year’s Irish Seniors’ Close championship

local golfer to traverse the competition in dramatic fashion as she reached the quarter-finals, too. There, she was one up against Portumna’s Suzanne Corcoran playing the 18th but a

par from the Galway woman was enough to take the final hole and she birdied the first tie hole to win a semi-final berth.

Earlier in the comp e t i t i o n , M c Mu l l e n

had beaten Headfort’s Pauline Walsh 4&3 and Adrienne Crowley, from Woodbrook, one up.

Dun Laoghaire duo Marie Igoe and Niamh Giblin were also involved in the competi-

tion and made it safely through the first round.

Igoe bowed out to Jones in round two while Doran dismissed Giblin 4&3 in the third round of the competition.

28 SWORDS GAZETTE 12 July 2012

GazetteSport Sport Feile fever descends on Dublin HE annual Feile na nGael made its way to Dublin for the first time in over 30 years as over 3,000 hurlers, camogie players and handballers from around the country came to the capital for one of the highlights of the GAA calendar.

They competed in three days of competition at clubs around the city before taking part in social activities including a parade from Croke Park to O’Connell Street while Saturday saw the finals take place across the divisions in Croke Park and Parnell Park.

T

Members of St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh were among huge crowds to gather in O’Connell St to support the Feile na nGael

The referee inspects the Newport team’s hurleys

Kilmacud Crokes in action against Buncrana in Silver Park

Ballinteer St John’s camogie team enjoy the Bus Eireann Feile na nGael Parade from Croke Park through Dublin City

12 July 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 29

Ballyboden St Enda’s Eoin Featherstone and De La Salle’s Lee Wall in the division one hurling competition

Lucan Sarsfields’ Emily McIntyre and Newport’s Ciara Floyd

parade. Pics: Martina McGilloway/ilivephotos.com

The St Brigid’s handball team enjoy the parade

The Clondalkin Youth Band lead teams down O’Connell Street

Handballers Hannah Dagg, Fiona Tully and Anna Ni Odhrain Ni Mhurchu

Stephen Smith and Thomas Donohoe

Kilcormack/Killoughey in action

Dublin hurlers Peter Kelly and Johnny McCaffrey with Peter Flannery

30 SWORDS GAZETTE 12 July 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SWIMMING: AER LINGUS MAN ON FORM AHEAD OF OLYMPICS

Fins go the distance on magic weekend FINGALLIANS U-15s BALLYBOUGHAL Pitchproduced and Putt club’s a weekfirst to away evening remember as for they 2012 picked was held off a in series Deerof Park classy in Howth wins inthis quick week. succession.

Inbegan It spite oflate thelast badThursday weather, they evening enjoyed when a lovely the Fingallians evening,U-15B warm and team dry fought with aback light with breeze, great heart perfect to beat for some St Peregrine’s great P&P. by a single point Six teams at home contested in Balheary. in a three Theball team, scramble a mixand some ture of 14samazing and 15s, results battled with hard onlyfor two thestroke 60 separating minutes tofive runteams out deserving on the night. winners.

Winners The Finswith U-15A a gross team51then werehad Rory two Homan, games Frankto back Hughes back to and contend Marie Delaney, with on Saturday pictured, followedand night in second early Sunday place by morning Jimmy Browne, and while Gerry Levins &David mentor Maura Nethaway Lynch with had a Gross to dispatch 52. TeresaThird Collins place early sawSaturday three teams morning level onto53collect with the of six team theofplayers Vince Walker, from the Mick Gaeltacht Daly and forJim the Gallagher vital weekend’s takinggames. the prizes OnonSunday a back six morning, count. after Thethe next game clubLeyna major will Rodgers be thewas Jones tasked Cup Club Championship. with the job of getting The the draw six will ladstake back place to the on Wed 11th Gaeltacht safe Julyand after sound. the scramble game playersOn canSaturday text theirevening entry to Fins the secretary U15A took on 085on a 1743748 well fancied or put Sttheir Jude’s name team onin the Holywell sheet in the and clubhouse. early on Sunday morning they were away to St Vincent’s in Fairview Park.

Games for this great team have been tough this season and they were unlucky on a number of occasions where results might have been different. With only two points so far in division one, results were needed in both games to keep hopes alive of staying in the top tier for next year’s campaign.

And they managed to earn two wins. On Saturday night, in a really tough battle, Fins ran out winners 3-9 to Jude’s 11 points, and then on Sunday morning they beat St Vincent’s 5-15 to 1-6.

To single out any individual performance would be extremely difficult, as it was a complete team effort from goals to the forward line that ensured victory.

The level of commitment and desire that each player showed was nothing short of breathtaking. Anyone that was there on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday commented on what an excellent game they had witnessed. There were no cameras present and the sound of the clash of ash or a well struck ball were not drowned out by 80,000 fans, but for the few that had the privilege to be there they knew they had witnessed a moment of sporting guts and determination.

Olympic-bound Barry Murphy produced an excellent swim in Montreal last weekend as he continues his preparations for the Games

Murphy breaks 50m record I sport@gazettegroup.com

AER Lingus swimming club member Barr y Murphy put in a top performance at the Canada Cup in Montreal last weekend where he broke the Irish senior 50m Butterfly record.

Murphy was just .01 of a second off the record of 24.49 in the morning heats but went into the final and clocked a 24.42 finishing in fifth place.

Three weeks out from the London Olympic Games, Murphy is showing that he could go onto even greater heights on the big stage, with his finish at the Canada

Cup being more of a conditioning drill than anything else according to Peter Banks, National performance director.

“This meeting came in the middle of his training camp, and the focus of the event was very much just to get him race ready, so it was a fantastic achievement for Barry to go out there and clock such a good time.

“Obviously, with these outings, focus is really not on performance, we can expect to see Barry bank even quicker times when the Games get under way.

“He was very unlucky

Flying Fins: Junior relay team notch senior fourth FINGALLIANS 4x100m female relay team,

pictured with the Brothers Pearse team - having recently claimed gold in the national junior championships - just missed out to Leevale on a senior medal as a photo finish put them in fourth behind Leevale in Morton Stadium last weekend in what would have been a remarkable double.

Sarah Murray came fifth in the 100m, Bronwyn Keogh and Stephen O’Connor competed in the first round of 100m.

not to qualify for the Beijing Olympics in 2008, so he has had four years to get himself into peak condition and with his wealth of experience he can go on to great things in London.

“T he Canada Cup performance showed that he is in good form, his conditioning is solid and it will put him in a good mindset in the last three weeks of his preparation,” said Banks.

Murphy was the first Olympic swimmer to qualify for the London Games, despite not competing in this year’s European and National championships due to

complications with his illness, acute asthma.

The former Belvedere College student went to study at the University of Tennessee in 2009, where he broke many Irish records while winning a plethora of tournaments, including a powerful display at the Indianapolis Grand Prix where he took gold.

In so doing, he also set the Irish national record for the 100m breast stroke at 1:00.27, which also qualified him for Olympics.

The Aer Lingus talent also enjoyed a solid performance in 2010’s European Championships

before becoming the first Irishman to progress to European Championship sprint final.

He qualified through the heats of the 50m breaststroke and his semi final time of 27.60 launched him to sixth in the world rankings, one of the highest positions ever held by an Irishman.

Elsewhere, clubmate Conor Turner was in action at the European junior swimming championships where he swam the 400m freestyle in 4:06.23 while he followed up with a time of 16.12.39 in the 1,500m free.

12 July 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 31

FOOTBALL: THIRD WIN IN TEN DAYS FOR FINGAL

CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS MIDSUMMER Party this Saturday, July

night from 6pm onwards or into the

14. Doors open at 8pm. Entry to the

club office (Monday-Friday) between

BBQ will be €5 and includes your first

9.30am and 12.30pm. For more infor-

drink at the bar. At great expense, the

mation about the camps, please con-

club has chef Paddy Mulligan flipping

tact the club on 01-8400125 or Nicky/

the burgers and tossing the salad.

Simon. Details are also on www.fingal-

Well done to Peter Murtagh on com-

Thank you to all of those who took

Sunday. No mean feat, 3.8km swim,

part in the hurling school of excel-

180.2 km bike and 42.2km run and all in

lence. Coaching during the week was

a time of ten hours and five minutes.

carried out by Dublin hurlers Shane

A big thank you to the team of help-

Durkin and Ross O’Carroll who shared

ers that made the hosting of the All

their skills and knowledge of the game

Ireland Feile last week.

with those who participated.

Sunday, July 22 - Croke Park: Lein-

The summer hurling festival will con-

ster Senior Final – Dublin v Meath at

tinue again this Wednesday in Balheary

4pm; applications must be in by Friday

for U-8, U-9 and U-10s at 6.30pm-8pm.

night, July 13 at the club bar. Stand €35,

New members are most welcome.

Hill 16 €20 and Children €5.

Swarming defence from Fingal Ravens combined to leave no way through for St Sylvester’s Darren Clarke

Casey cracker adds to Ravens flying form AFL DIVISION ONE Fingal Ravens St Sylvester’s

1-8 0-9

I STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

MICK Deegan’s Fingal Ravens continued their incredible resurgence as Alan Casey’s second half goal handed them a richly deserved third win in ten days against high flying St Sylvester’s.

It lifts the Rolestown club into a share for eighth place, something that could scarcely be envisaged a fortnight ago as the club went winless over the first four months of the AFL1 season.

But their work-rate and hunger were a cut above what Syl’s could offer last Saturday morning and it could have been a more comfortable outcome.

As it was, Colin Prendiville and Joey Morris were immense in shutting down intercounty stars Darren Clarke and Michael McCarthy.

Neither were to score

from play while Darren Daly was the beating pulse at centre-back. His performance was made all the more telling as he togged out with six stitches above his eye, sustained three days earlier against Parnell’s.

He manfully fronted up and played a defining role in tricky conditions, the pitch passed fit for play on the morning of the game.

It made scoring tough with over half the scores coming from frees and that is how the run started, Clarke lifting over a 45.

Derek Keogh (Ravens) and Conor Daly’s neat chip and kick for Syl’s were the pick of the first half efforts, advancing the score to 0-2 to 0-1.

But both managers were enduring a frustrating time. The side from Malahide were giving Gabriel Bannigan a rough time, struggling for fluidity.

Deegan, meanwhile, was lamenting a wide count of seven to two at

the break, a stat which meant his side trailed 0-5 to 0-4, while Derek Daly had drawn the best from Rob Wallace.

Ravens, though, tightened up on the free concession count in the second period while Keogh levelled matters at five each with his second neat score.

An exchange of frees kept the sides locked together – Clarke hitting his fourth – but the hosts were looking ominous.

Niall Tormey’s leftfooted skidder was only denied by Wallace’s diving fingertips but his side hit the front for the first

time in the 44th minute when Casey popped over his fourth score.

Offaly star Nigel Dunne quickly cancelled that out off the back of Shane O’Connor’s diving intercept.

But it was Ravens’ time to get lucky as Morris dropped in a booming ball.

Amid a melee, Wallace could only punch as far as Casey who coolly clipped through the netting.

Aidan Relihan came off the bench to keep the tie interesting, but Ravens defended assuredly before PJ Casey rubber-stamped the result.

lians.com.

pleting the Iron Man in Frankfurt on

Our IT section has now amalgamated

The hurling summer camp will take

www.fingallians.com and www.fingal-

place on Monday, July 16 to Friday, July

lians.ie. Teams that wish to add con-

20. Completed application forms can

tent can email the information to fin-

be handed into the club bar each week

gallians@gmail.com.

FINGAL RAVENS OUR summer camp last week was a

their final by one point; thanks to all

great success; huge thanks to Alan,

the parents and to our hosts for their

Mick, Paul and all of the coaching team

hospitality.

for a fantastic week. All the juveniles

We want your old mobile phone; there

really enjoyed themselves; also thanks

will be a box in the clubhouse where

to Dublin hero Paul Flynn who arrived

you can leave them or give them to any

on Friday with Sam.

committee member or team mentor.

Well done to our senior team on two great league wins last week, away to

Best of luck to Ronan Norton who has gone travelling for the year.

Parnells and at home to St Sylvester’s.

We wish Declan Hannigan and his

Well done also to our minor team who

family the best of luck with their move

had good win in the league away to

to Cork. We would like to wish a speedy

Man O War and to the U-16s on a great

recovery to Christy O’Brien.

win against St Jude’s.

Anyone who is interested in apply-

Tickets for the Leinster football final

ing for the job of club caretaker and

on Sunday, July 22 in Croke Park must

maintenance person, commencing the

be ordered by text only to Desy on 087-

first week in September, please con-

9957429 by 8pm this Thursday, July 12.

tact John McCarthy on 087-6599348.

Well done to our U-8s who competed

This is run in conjunction with FAS; all

in the St Pat’s of Tullow, Carlow tour-

applicants must be over 25 and must

nament at the weekend. They lost

be signing on for at least one year.

ST FINIAN’S A COMPREHENSIVE win for our adult

Clothing collection will take place

hurlers over Craobh Chiarain on Sun-

on Saturday, July 21. Please donate

day puts the lads in a position to chal-

all your clean unwanted clothes (in

lenge for top spot in division four.

any condition), bed linen, duvets, pil-

Our Intermediate footballers have

lows, towels, shoes, bags, belts and

a crunch top of the table fixture on

soft toys. This has the potential to be

Wednesday evening down in St Anne’s

a lucrative fundraiser with minimum

Park versus the current second place

input. Please give it your best support.

team, Clontarf. Come out and support

Bags can be dropped off to the club-

the lads.

house at the following times: Monday,

Our ladies camogie team had a great two point win over Naomh Mearnog; lots of great performances on the night, well done to all.

July 16 to Thursday, July 19, 7.30pm9pm and Saturday, 11am to 1pm.

The lotto jackpot was €5,700 and the numbers drawn were 1, 2, 9 and 13.

Congratulations to the Dublin minor

There was no winner. The €50 winners

hurlers who won the Leinster Champi-

were Frank McArdle and family and

onship versus Wexford in Croke Park

Frank Egan. Next week’s jackpot will

on Sunday.

be €5,800.

ALL OF YOUR SWORDS SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

MURPHY’S LAW: Aer Lingus man breaks 50m butterfly record P30

JULY 12, 2012

DUBLIN’S FEILE FEVER: The capital welcomes the country’s U-14 hurlers P28-29

GazetteSPORT

Fingal Ravens manager Mick Deegan is enjoying life in AFL1 after a tough start to the campaign saw his team rooted to the bottom of the table

Ravens flying on comeback trail Three wins in ten days has seen Mick Deegan’s team transform their AFL1 fortunes in brilliant fashion STEPHEN FINDLATER

swordssport@gazettegroup.com

BESET by emigration, work commitments and injury, Mick Deegan – an All-Ireland winner with Dublin – believes his Fingal Ravens panel is finally getting the luck they deserved after a harrowing start to the season.

Just one point from the opening four months of the AFL1 season had seen them odds on to be occupying one of the relegation slots.

But three wins in three outings in ten days has incredibly lifted the Rolestown side into the top half of the division.

While Deegan says his side are nowhere near out of the woods yet, he is buzzing in the wake of the results against Templeogue Synge Street, Parnell’s and, last Saturday, title-chasing St Sylvester’s.

“You can’t beat winning,” he told GazetteSport in the wake of the third win, once which saw them boss play for long periods against one of the county’s most consistent performers.

“I started here eight years ago and it’s a totally different team. Three great wins on the trot now and I think we’re into the top half of the table. St Jude’s is a big game next week. They’re below us but they won it all last year; it’s always a tough game.”

Speaking about the nature of his panel, Deegan says that being located in a small parish at the edge of Dublin means that every player moving on is of huge significance.

Add in that the club’s second team has risen to intermediate level and there is the added logistical problem of both sides playing at the same time in each round of matches.

They are big challenges to getting the balance right, attempting to blood young players in the top team while also giving requisite game time at inter level.

Ronan Glynn is one such player to have profited from that situation, moving up from the club’s AFL5 team from last year to be a key part of the first team’s full-back line this term.

And Deegan says the policy of trusting in

youth is coming good: “It goes in cycles and you have to keep chopping and changing. A lot of people were worried about those emigrating but you just have to get on with what you have each week.

“If the numbers are there, they’re there but if not, there’s not usually much you can do about it.

“We started well last year and then finished poorly and fell away. The year before, we lost the first six and then came back.

“But there are a lot of young lads, five or six of them on the bench today. We do struggle now because the second team are playing at the same time.

“For us out here, it is a struggle, especially as we lost so many lads to New Zealand and London.

“But we’ve got players back, after struggling around the two championship matches with players injured, working or away. We got a run of 17 or 18 players out training and it makes a huge difference.”