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INSIDE: Fingal students celebrate graduation P8-9

Rowing: Local star shows world class in Munich Page 32

Sports Awards: May’s Dublin Awards winners are announced Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ............8-9, 10 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS ................... 20 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

June 2, 2011

GOING FOR TEN: Swords native gets set for another marathon See Page 3

Locals vow to fight for rail project Q MIMI MURRAY

SWORDS residents have vowed to fight to keep Metro North on track and not allow the project to be derailed.

This follows the launch of a campaign involving locals to secure Metro North at a well-attended meeting facilitated by Socialist TD Clare Daly last Thursday.

“The meeting agreed

to set up YES to METRO NORTH - a campaign for every Swords resident… to make sure that construction on METRO is commenced as a critical infrastructure project that can transform the quality of life for Swords residents and positively contributing to much-needed economic development and job creation,” Deputy Daly said.

Full Story on Page 6

Followers of fashion: Looking great at a CARI fundraiser ROZ and Vicky Flanagan were look-

ing very stylish when they attended a recent fashion show in Cruzzo’s Restaurant in aid of CARI. The event was organised by Miriam Ahern and guests were treated to some gourmet food,

champagne and were shown some of the hottest summer trends in the shops. And if this wasn’t enough, there was also some great live entertainment to top off what was a fantastic event.

Full Gallery on Page 10

2 SWORDS GAZETTE 2 June 2011

MUSIC

Killer Ceol

KILLER Ceol will support Aslan on a couple of dates this June, following on from a successful date with them in April.

“I supported Aslan down in Kilmihill in Clare last April 30 and had an amazing time with the lads,” he said.

“They were so friendly, down to earth and supportive. Billy McGuinness, the rhythm guitarist, said he really liked my stuff and Christy promised to have me support them again in the future.

True to their word Billy got in contact with me a couple of days later with more dates.”

Killer Ceol will now play R ichard Grace Venue in Athlone on June 3 and Hogan’s Cedar Bar, Mountrath, Laois on June 11.

EVENT Minister announces second-level patronage

Go-ahead to open secondlevel schools

Diarmaid Mac Aonghusa, chairpreson of the Educate Together, and Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairi Quinn TD

THERE was good news for local students in Educate Together schools as the Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairi Quinn TD, announced the formal recognition of Educate Together as a second-level patron at the organisations’ annual general meeting in Gorey at the weekend.

T he proposal was tabled by the Minister at the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday and was endorsed as Government policy by both coalition parties.

Educate Together, which has 58 schools at primary level, applied to open its first second-level school in 2007.

Minister Quinn praised Educate Together’s Blueprint for Second Level document, which calls for significant change in the curriculum and current teaching approaches at

second-level.

The Minister told the AGM: “You have shown great leadership in creating and sustaining a national network of primary schools.

“You know that I have long been a supporter of your involvement at primary school level.

“I can now confirm the Government’s view that Educate Together meets all the requirements to operate as a patron of a second-level school.”

Minister Quinn continued: “It is my intention to prioritise the development of a new framework for the recognition of new second-level schools in the context of the Government Programme’s commitment to plurality.

I am finalising proposals to bring to Cabinet so that I can set about implementing this Government commitment shortly.”

Educate Together chief executive, Paul Rowe, responded positively to the announcement stating: “On behalf of the whole Educate Together movement and, in particular, the 13,000 pupils in our primary schools, we thank the Minister for securing formal recognition of our Patron status at second-level.

“We are particularly gratified that our vision for second-level education, as expressed in our Blueprint, has received the Government’s full endorsement.

“With the need to establish up to 20 new post-primary schools over the next five years, Educate Together now has concrete expectations of the first Educate Together second-level school opening its doors in the very near future”.

Rowe continued: “Educate Together is totally committed to delivering the very best education possible to our nation’s children at primary and secondary level.

“We will continue to innovate in our teaching and learning methodologies.

“We will continue to advocate for our children’s rights to the best education possible and for investment in that education to be protected.

“We greatly appreciate the opportunity that formal recognition of our second-level patronage status gives and we look forward to working with the Minister and Department of Education and Skills as this is brought to life in our first second level school.”

The organisation currently has 73 new school applications lodged with the Department of Education and will open new primary schools in Blanchardstown West and Tyrrelstown this September.

2 June 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 3

CHARITY Allen talks to the Gazette about exercise and sponsorship

Debbie is taking on her tenth marathon Q MIMI MURRAY news@gazettegroup.com

RADIO presenter and Swords native, Debbie Allen, will complete her tenth mini marathon this June, and is approaching it with her usual gusto and good humour.

She told the Gazette of her approach to exercising, the pitfalls of dieting and, more importantly, the charity she is supporting this year.

“I have done nine marathons over the years, all for different charities and different reasons in my life at the time. I have never managed to run it yet. I did attempt a jog a few years ago, with two sports bras on, but I never really got going because I entered the wrong section and got stuck behind 40,000 women strolling along and having the craic.

Note to self, enter correct category.

“I took a break of two years and then went back to the gym in late January. I did a six-week Empower programme with Energie Fitness in Applewood in Swords, and I had such great results in so little time that I decided to set myself a goal of the minimarathon to see how my fitness levels have improved.

“I am confident I’ll get around the route; would have definitely been a different story last year.

I didn’t do a tap of exercise, my head was in a dark place and the desire to be fit was not a priority,” she says honestly.

“This year I’m doing it for World Vision as I

sponsor a little girl, Nondudnzo, who is seven and lives in Swaziland.

I wanted to raise awareness for the charity, as they do tremendous work and it’s important to consider children who have so little and are living with their grandparents as they have lost their mum and dad to Aids.

“Things are bad for a lot of people here at the moment, but they don’t have anything like what these children have to put up with.

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‘Things are bad for a lot of people here at the moment, but they don’t have anything like what these children have to put up with’

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“I have to admit the training has been a startstop affair. I go hell-forleather, out to the gym, out on the streets and then life gets in the way and I do nothing for a week. I’m not panicked though, as the vibe on the day is absolutely incredible and you just keep going until the end, buoyed along by the good mood.

“I haven’t changed my eating habits to such an extent that I’m on a diet, heaven forbid, but I have stopped drinking during the week, the sneaky little glass of vino collapso

has been given the boot until the weekend and then I binge drink my head off. Only joking,” she laughs.

“I haven’t focused on ‘The Tonnage’ at all really; losing the body fat that is covering my organs and gaining muscle to burn the fat has been my priority, so the scales are not getting a look in. I lost six stone 18 months ago, which is all back on I’m afraid, and I became addicted to weighing myself and freaking out, so I’m trying to eat less and move more – an old and trusted formula.

“I shall be doing it with some of the girls from Midday; it’s going to be such a laugh, I’m really looking forward to it and there’s a rumour that we might have a Babycham, or two, after the event.

“The job is going well, the station is the number two in the city, so everyone’s happy and I do a week a month on Midday on TV3, so I’m kept busy and on my toes. I’m living in Killester now, still on the northside and I love it, near the Dart, near the sea and near the job...perfect,” she smiles.

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Radio presenter and Swords native, Debbie Allen

CHARITY

Summer dog walk

A SUMMER dog walk will be held in Newbridge House and Gardens on June 26, in aid of Dogs Aid Animal Sanctuary. The sanctuary rescues and re-homes neglected, stray and abused dogs and any other injured creature that comes their way.

The sanctuary is based in Meakstown, Finglas, and is run entirely by volunteers and they are looking for all the support they can get on the day.

For more information, go to www.dogsaid.ie or call 087 2944310.

4 SWORDS GAZETTE 2 June 2011

INITIATIVES: FCC CHANGES BOOST ENERGY EFFICIENCIES

EVENT 225km charity cycle sees record funds raised

Council cuts energy bills by half a million euro Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

FINGAL County Council has cut its energy bill by half a million euro in four years, it was revealed last week.

This has been achieved through a series of energy-saving initiatives that have been carried out in the local authority over that time.

The savings show that Fingal is way ahead of the annual three per cent energy reduction target set out for public bodies, and has reduced its carbon emissions by 648 tonnes.

The total energy s av e d t h r o u g h t h e Energy Reduction Programme 2007 – 2010 is so impressive that it would power the average house for 64 years, make 631 round trips to New York or make 40 million cups of tea.

The programme focused on four key buildings, namely County Council offices in Swords and Blanchardstown, as well as Blanchardstown and Balbriggan libraries.

Consumption In 2010, electricity consumption in County Hall was down by 24 per cent compared to 2007, while gas consumption was down six per cent.

Electricity use in Grove Road dropped by 11 per cent between 2008 and 2010, while gas consumption dropped by 25 per cent.

There was a reduction of almost 15 per cent in electricity use for both Blanchardstown and Balbriggan libraries, while gas consumption dropped 12 per cent.

These important

energy savings by Fingal County Council can be attributed to a number of initiatives, including re-programming existing building management systems and controls and regular re-programming of lighting management system.

The Dublin energy agency, Codema, also carried out a Switch Off campaign which encouraged staff to switch off lights and office equipment when not in use.

Enthusiastically welcoming the impressive energy savings, Fingal county manager David O’Connor said he was “delighted at the savings we have achieved through simple but very effective energy management”.

“We’ve show n we know how to use best practice to get best value for money while still delivering great benefits to the environment.”

A number of other actions are now underway in Fingal County Council that will improve energy efficiency even further, including refitting existing lighting in County Hall with sensor detection and changes to the air handling unit and lighting at Blanchardstown Library.

Fingal County Council received grants from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland for works relating to County Hall and Blanchardstown Library.

These are examples of actions taken which will help Fingal County Council to meet the 2020 target of a 33 per cent reduction in its overall energ y consumption.

The An Post team at the finish line in Eyre Square, Galway – Trevor Pigott and David Kelley, An Post, Swords; Michael Kirwan and Seamus McCormack, An Post, Navan

Locals help to raise €125k for Foundation Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

THE charity fundraising event, Cycle4haiti, has raised a record €125,000 with the help of a team from Swordsbased One4all, An Post in Swords as well as a team from Malahide Rugby Club.

Over the May bank holiday weekend this year, a host of wellknown business figures took part in Cycle4haiti 2011, a 225km charity cycle from Dublin to Galway, which raised €125,000 for the Soul of Haiti Foundation.

A m o n g t h e 15 6 cyclists who set out in a bid to triple last year’s fundraising goal was a local team from One4all based in Swords, An Post, Swords, and a team

Michael Dawson, managing director of One4all and charity cycle organiser with Team Haiti – Luke Giblin, Galway; Darragh O’Keefe, Cork; Shane O’Neil, Michael Cahill, Mark Quigley, Donegal and Conor Murphy, Kerry

from Malahide Rugby Club. Michael Dawson, One4all CEO, along with other high-profile entrepreneurs Michael Cullen, chief executive, Beacon Medical Group and Padraig O Ceidigh, chairman of Aer Arann, also took part in the cycle this year.

The funds raised by Cycle4Haiti in 2010 went directly to support the development of Soul of Haiti Foundation projects, including the provision of a brand new roof for an orphanage in Il a Vache.

M i c h a e l D aw s o n , One4all CEO, said:

“The level of support f o r C y cl e 4 h a i t i h a s been phenomenal. It was really encouraging to see so many people getting involved this year, which has helped us more than triple last year’s fundraising total.

This one small challenge helps make a big

difference to the lives of people in Haiti.”

A number of other Ernst and Young Entrepreneurs of the Year, well-known companies and familiar faces participated in the event, including teams of novice cyclists from An Post, O2, Jacobs Fruitfield, One Direct, Netwatch, Lotusworks, Ernst and Young and Megazyme.

T he Soul of Haiti Foundation was set up in 2007 by a group of Ernst and Young Entrepreneurs of the Year, including One4all CEO Michael Dawson, to help communities in Haiti to improve their economic and social circumstances and create their own success by building relationships with Irish entrepreneurs.

Rummage box may help memories PEOPLE with dementia can often remember the distant past more easily than recent events.

Home Instead Senior Care in Swords recommends using a rummage box to tap into memories from the past and help people with dementia feel empowered and secure in familiarity.

“When a person has demen-

tia they begin to lose their short-term memory and memories. They can forget about things that have happened in the last few days, months or years. They may even have forgotten what occurred earlier in the day. However, people with dementia can retain their longterm memories and find comfort in discussing things from their past. Particularly things

they enjoyed, like past interests, hobbies or even their past employment,” says dementia care expert, Tara Shortall.

The rummage box can be used as an activity, as a distraction, and, therapeutically, as a reminiscence tool. The rummage box can be made of a shoe box, a biscuit tin, a drawer, press or even a room. It should be filled with old memorabilia,

such old photographs or DVDs of their favourite films when the person was younger.

For more information, log on to http://www.homeinstead and download a free information leaflet on how to create and use the rummage box. Call Home Instead Senior Care on (01) 895 0010 for information and advice on dementia care at home.

2 June 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 5

COURTS Man caught with over €600k of cannabis

Alcoholic gets 10 years for drugs transfer issued a bench warrant for John Wilson, also of Oliver Bond Street, when he failed to appear in court for his sentence, having earlier pleaded guilty to the same drugs offence.

Joseph Douglas (34) of Killyfinla Heights, Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan, and James Griffin (44) of Adare Road, Coolock, were jailed in April of last year for eight years for their roles in the crime.

T hey had pleaded guilty to possessing the drugs at the same location and date.

Det Gda O’Neill told Mr Paul Carroll BL, prosecuting, that he and colleagues mounted a surveillance operation on an articulated lorry driven by Douglas, which had arrived in Dublin by ferry from Liverpool.

Douglas was a haulage contractor.

He said the team followed this lorry to a layby at the back of Dublin Airport on the Naul Road, where it was joined by Griffin in a silver Renault van and the Wilsons in a white English-registered pickup truck.

Det Gda O’Neill said gardai spotted Robert Wilson get out of the

pickup tr uck, climb into the lorry’s cab and pass out packages to his brother, who placed them in Griffin’s van.

Gardai then intervened and arrested all four men.

Det Gda O’Neill told Mr Carroll that Robert Wilson denied any “wrongdoing” during interview, but admitted he had arrived in Dublin that day via ferry and claimed he and his brother had decided to look at aeroplanes before visiting their mother.

He denied passing the 19 packages of cannabis resin slabs from the truck to the van.

Det Gda O’Neill revealed that Robert Wilson, whom he has since seen drinking around the streets of Dublin, was to receive €2,000 for helping transport the drugs and had a return ticket to Holyhead for that evening.

He agreed with Mr Padraig Dwyer SC, defending, that his client had an addiction problem and “no signs of the trappings of wealth”.

He further agreed that Wilson has not been involved in “anything like this” since.

Man who brought in €51k in cocaine is sentenced A Nigerian, who brought €51,000 of cocaine into the country to raise money for his sick mother, has been a given a partially-suspended sentence on condition he leaves Ireland on his release.

Garda Keith Taylor said that Dublin Airport customs officers stopped Godwin Chuks Chukwu (50) at the arrivals area taxi rank and asked him to return with them to the building for a baggage inspection.

The customs officers found cocaine hidden in a camera battery pack and legs of a tripod in Chukwu’s suitcase.

Chukwu, a father-of-one with an address at Parameriro, Suriname, South

America, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of 731.7 grammes of cocaine worth €51,221 at Dublin Airport on September 2, 2010.

He has no previous convictions.

Judge Tony Hunt imposed a four-year sentence, with the final two years suspended on condition Chukwu leave the country on his release and not return for 10 years. He also ordered that the €1,000 Chukwu had on him on his arrest be used to pay for the journey back home.

Judge Hunt said he wanted to “send a message that this is not a free pass, that this is not an open house for couriers”.

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AN alcoholic, who claimed he was watching planes to kill time around Dublin Airport after being caught transferring over €600,000 of cannabis in the area, has received a 10 year sentence.

Detective Garda Frank O’Neill said he and members of a Garda National Drugs Unit surveillance team intervened in the criminal operation and arrested Robert Wilson (47), his brother, John Wilson (52) and two other men at the scene.

The Det Gda O’Neill said Rober t Wilson claimed he and his brother had “decided to look at aeroplanes” to kill time after arriving in Dublin from Holyhead to visit their mother.

Wilson, of Oliver Bond Street, Dublin 8, pleaded guilty on his trial date at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possessing of 88 kg of cannabis resin worth €616,000 for sale/ supply at the Naul Road, Ballymun, on August 8, 2008.

He has six previous convictions from Birmingham in the UK, including a five-year sentence for robberies in 1998.

Judge Desmond Hogan

A thank you: Honouring the work of DSPCA volunteers

The Four Courts

SEE PETS PAGE 17

6 SWORDS GAZETTE 2 June 2011

TRANSPORT: RESIDENTS CAMPAIGN

Keeping Metro North on track Q MIMI MURRAY

SWORDS residents have vowed to fight to keep Metro North on track and not allow the project to be derailed.

This follows the launch of a broad-based campaign, involving residents and commuters to secure Metro North, at a determined and well-attended meeting facilitated by Socialist Party TD, Clare Daly, in The Carnegie Court last Thursday.

“The meeting agreed to set up YES to METRO NORTH – a campaign for every Swords’ resident, community group, commuter or business to get involved to make sure that construction on METRO is commenced as a critical infrastructure project, that can transform the quality of life for Swords residents and postively contributing to much-needed economic development and job creation. This is the only shovel-ready transport project, with planning completed, millions already spent on it, and the only project with funding in place,” Deputy Daly said.

All residents were invited to a second campaign meeting on Wednesday, June 1, in The Carngie Court. The Rail Procurement Agency was invited to make a presentation on the status of the project.

The National Transport Authority has also been written to in order to express the concerns of the community that this project must go ahead.

There will be a public rally on the issue on Monday, June 13, outside the Council offices between 5 and 7pm.

Swords Councillor, Eugene Coppinger, also got behind the campaign.

“An online petition and a Facebook page have been launched. Nearly 50 people turned up to the launch of the campaign, which was very good,” he said.

PEOPLE Local violin teacher Dorothy Conaghan

Bringing classical music to children

Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

IT used to be the recorder or tin whistle but now school children are learning to play classical instruments like the violin, cello and double bass, thanks to a new initiative organised by the National Concert Hall.

Malahide violinist, Dorothy Conaghan, is taking part in the initiative and told the Gazette how she started out in the classical world and how the exciting scheme works.

A class demonstration is given by Dorothy using the NCH set of violins.

“Class teachers, special needs assistants, board of management representatives and possible benefactors observe this demonstration class of students.

The principal then sources funding for instruments - usually a set of 30 violins, and for a specialist teacher.

“A specialist teacher is sourced, and an hourly rate is negotiated between this teacher and the school principal. The principal decides how many classes the budget will allow to avail of this tuition. The NCH Learn and Explore Office then supports the development of an in-school string project.”

This support comes in the form of “Ins c h o o l Wo r k s h o p s ” with Dorothy Conaghan, along with on site teacher training for the specialist teacher for up to three school visits a year.

Dorothy, has a lot of previous experience in the classical field. Having studied mathematics, French and music at University College Dublin, she graduated, with BA and BMus degrees.

She was then awarded postgraduate diplomas in violin teaching, and musicianship, and later fur thered her string teaching studies in Britain and in Belgium where she was awarded a scholarship to study with Koji Toyoda. In London she trained as a Suzuki Method violin teacher and she also studied early childhood education. In the summer of 1987, she studied Violin Pedagogy with Dr Suzuki in Berlin.

“I spent many years working in education in both primary schools and as head of music in a Dublin secondary school. For over 25 years I was a lecturer in Musicianship in the DIT Conservatory of Music.

S i n c e 19 8 8 , I h ave developed and maintained a string teaching practice in north Dublin, and out of this has grown the Chamber Orchestra, Young Dub-

lin Symphonia, which I founded and conduct.

As well as being Feis Ceoil prizewinners, my orchestra received the Irish Association of Youth Orchestras Artistic Achievement Award at the National Concert Hall in Dublin, on two occasions.

“For over 10 years I have been developing a Class String Teaching System for primary schools. I am committed to creating access to top-quality string instr umental tuition during school time for all for primary school children.”

To observe best practice Dorothy has visited schools, instrumental programmes in Atlanta Georgia, San Antonio, Texas and Newark New Jersey. These visits have been supported by The Arts Council of Ireland.

As a string teaching consultant, Dorothy visits primary schools throughout Ireland on behalf of The National Concert Hall, Learn and Explore office.

For these string projects, Dorothy has devised a flexible working model to fit into the Irish Primary School system.

Recently, while conducting a youth Orchestra in Berlin, Dorothy met with the founder of the Venezuela El Sistema youth orchestra, Maestro Abreu, along with some

Students are all tuned up and ready to start practising. Pictures: Peter Doyle

William shows off his skills

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‘For over 10 years I have been developing a Class String Teaching System for primary schools. I am committed to creating access to top-quality string instrumental tuition during school time for all for primary school children’ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

of the players when they performed at the Berlin Philharmonic Hall. “The obvious enjoyment that this orchestra radiates while performing has

always been an inspiration to me,” she says.

She keeps up her own performing as a violinist in the Malahide String Trio, and most recently

per formed with the National Youth Orchestra of Ireland Alumni at the National Concert Hall, as part of their 40th anniversary celebrations.

2 June 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 7

talks about her part in exciting scheme

POLITICS: SENATOR IS GIVEN TWO MORE POSTS

O’Brien to play a much bigger role Q MIMI MURRAY

A COUPLE of plum roles have been given to Fianna Fail Senator, Darragh O’Brien.

He has been appointed to the position of Group Leader for Fianna Fail in the Seanad and Spokesperson on Finance.

Senator O’Brien, who worked in financial services before serving a full Dail term representing Dublin North, will play a significant role in the party’s agenda in Seanad Eireann, as well as assisting in renewing the party across the capital.

Speaking following his appointment Senator O’Brien said: “It is a privilege to be chosen for these important roles by Micheal Martin.

Priority

“We have a very strong and experienced Seanad team and intend to maximise the Upper House in driving legislation that will reform politics and bring about economic recovery in the country.

“The main priority will be to focus our time and energy on initiatives that will grow businesses and employment opportunities.

“The new Seanad has a unique opportunity to reconnect itself with the electorate. There is a widespread view that the Seanad has become

Bjarke Gundersen, music teacher, and Suzanne McAllister, senior infants’ class teacher

Conor, Theo and Eoin

Emily

distant and disconnected from the issues facing people’s daily lives.

“The Taoiseach has made a number of very important selections in his nominees, and I welcome the inclusion of people from outside the general political arena. This will add to the debate quality of the debate we will have in the months and years ahead.”

Effective

Announcing the appointment of Darragh O’Brien as Seanad group leader for the Party, Micheal Martin said: “Darragh has a proven track record both in business and politics. He will be an effective leader of the Fianna Fail group and will work constructively with other parties and Independent Senators.

“The Fianna Fail Seanad team comprises 14 talented individuals, all of whom I expect to play a leadership role in holding this Government to account and in the renewal of the Fianna Fail party. If the Government holds to its pledge to abolish Seanad Eireann, this will be its last sitting.

“My attitude is that, for as long as it is in place, my party will play its full role providing robust and constructive opposition in the best interests of our country,” said Martin.

Prospects for a road race moving forward

Dorothy Conaghan, NCH

THE prospect of a road race in Fingal took a big step forward this week, with plans to establish a committee that will organise the event well under way.

The Events Department of Fingal County Council, along with Socialist Councillor, Eugene Coppinger, are to form a committee that will decide who takes ownership of the event.

Cllr Coppinger says

he hopes the race will be held in May of next year and he hopes to get every councillor in Fingal out to either run or walk the race.

“The idea will be to finish it on the Main Street in Swords. It will be on a Sunday, so it will mean the street is only closed for a couple of hours. We really want to highlight Fingal and Swords with this,” he said.

8 SWORDS GAZETTE 2 June 2011

EVENT A proud day for Leaving Certificate students at

Students graduate HE Leaving Certificate students of Fingal Community College graduated on May 26 at a ceremony held in the College. Proud family members and equally proud staff looked on as each graduating student was presented with a graduation folder and certificate by the principal, Mrs Sharon McGrath, and deputy principal, Ms Martina Donnellan. The Bloom of the Rose was the theme selected by the year group and was accompanied by a beautiful painting of a rose created by 6th Year student Eddy Ekofo Ifuki.

Students were fully involved in the ceremony and read selected poems and extracts from the New Testament and presented symbols representing their journey through the school. Mrs McGrath addressed the packed assembly hall and spoke of the challenge facing each family as the young students are now being “catapulted from the familiar and highly regulated world of school into an unfamiliar world where they are expected to make adult decisions and to take full responsibility for themselves”. She said that she hoped that they would “open their arms out wide to embrace these changes but at the same time hold on tightly to their values”– values that she believes they have witnessed on a daily basis in Fingal Community College.

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Atiyoyo Edafe, Jordan Barron and Janelle Kelly. Pictures: Peter Doyle

Peter Moore and Elaine Moriarty

Cein O’Sullivan, Jordan Brooks, Scot Chapman and Christopher Russell

John Punch, special needs assistant, and Dean Brittnell

Sharon McGrath, principal, and Brenda Kelly, year head

Kenneth Toring with his parents

Aaron Boylan, Glen Quinn and Nickolett Reger

2 June 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 9

Fingal Community College as they celebrate graduation

Mr and Mrs Freeny

Carmel, Linda, Danielle and Lisa Byrne

Sean Farrelly and Nicole Gallagher

Sharon McGrath, principal, and Ruth Ryan

Ryan Kelly, Levon Vasilyan and Michael Barker

10 SWORDS GAZETTE 2 June 2011

EVENT Cruzzos Restaurant hosts CARI charity event

Suzanne Craddock and Hazel Kaneswaren

Fashion fundraiser IRIAM Ahern hosted a summertime lunch and fashion show in aid of CARI in Cruzzo Restaurant, Malahide recently. Guests were welcomed with a champagne reception, after which they enjoyed a delicious four-course gourmet lunch with wine in Malahide’s favourite seaside venue. Before lunch a special fashion show was held to showcase the hottest summer trends from M&S, Camille Boutique, Neola, Divine, Aria Boutique and Yasmin Boutique. After lunch a fun-filled auction took place followed by a special surprise live entertainment. All proceeds go directly to CARI. CARI provides a professional child therapy and counselling service to children and families who have been affected by child sexual abuse.

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Alan Hughes, Sinead Desmond and Karl Broderick. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Alison Healy and Milena Byrne

Terry McCoy and Miriam Ahern

Roz Flanagan and Vicky Flanagan

Cecilia Ahern, Miriam Ahern and Georgina Byrne

Virginia Synott and Linda Keating

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteGAMING GAMING Only two more Kinect sensors left to be won!

HE Gazette is continuing its incredible Xbox Kinect sensor competition this week, as we give away the third of our four terrific prizes.

K inect for Xbox 360 brings games and entertainment to life in extraordinary new ways, without using a controller With Kinect, technology evaporates, letting the natural magic in all of us shine. Controllerfree gaming means fullbody play.

Kinect responds to how you move. So, if you have to kick, then kick.

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If you have to jump, then jump. You already know how to play.

All you have to do is get off the couch, “plug in� to your Xbox 360 console, and jump in to experience game play.

Kinect Sports allows you to say goodbye to the buttons and controllers, and play six full sports games just as you always have, using your entire body.

Become the heavyweight champ of the living room with boxing, or take to the sand with some high-flying beach volleyball action.

With soccer, field and

track events, and even bowling, Kinect Sports has something for everyone.

Meanwhile, Kinect Adventures will have you jumping, dodging, and kicking your way through 20 pulse-pounding adventures, set in exotic locations around the world.

K inect Adventures gets you to work with your friends and navigate through roaring rapids, challenge obstacle courses, and even save a leaky underwater laboratory.

The spirit of adventure awaits!

WIN A KINECT SENSOR AND TWO KINECT GAMES To be in with a chance to win a Kinect Sensor and two Kinect games, to use with your XBox 360 console, just answer the following question.

How many Kinect sensors is the Gazette giving away in total?

Post your answer to Kinect Competition, Gazette Group Newspapers, Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan, Co Dublin.

Alternatively, you can email competition@gazettegroup.com.

All entries must be received before Wednesday, June 8.

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 13

GazetteGROWING GROWING

In association with

SEEDLINGS: FUN IN THE GARDEN

The joy of growing up MICHAEL KELLY

DID a lot of transplanting this weekend, which is always a fun activity for a GIYer. There’s nothing like the satisfaction of planting seedlings – bare beds transformed in an instant with neat rows of little plants.

There are always a few days of fretting after transplanting, however – will cold nights set the plants back? Will slugs or rabbits try and munch on them?

Seed sowing is a relatively exact science – if you sow a seed at the right temperature and at the right depth, and you keep the potting compost moist, then it will generally germinate rather reliably.

In addition, up to the point that they are transplanted, the seedlings have luxuriated in the 5-star comfort of my potting shed.

They have been nurtured, spoiled, cossetted.

I’ve carefully watered them each day, switched on heat underneath them at night and covered them with fleece.

The potting shed is a controlled environment – there is no weather in there – no rain or wind.

Nor are there any pests

to trouble them – leather jackets, slugs, snails, birds or rabbits.

Planting a seedling out in the soil therefore is a watershed moment.

It is the moment it leaves a very controlled environment in favour of something far more uncontrolled, unpredictable and messy.

And like a parent sending a child off to school for the first time, you just have to have faith and let it go into the mad, bad world.

Things to do this month To-Do Watering and weeding duties step up a notch – the tunnel/greenhouse in particular will require a good deal of water from now on.

Watch the weather and water outside as required.

Continue to earth-up potato plants to prevent the spuds becoming green.

Mu l c h a n d w a t e r tomato plants and continue to remove side shoots that appear in the leaf axils.

Stake everything that grows tall – raspberries, peas, beans, tomatoes, etc. Net soft fruit against birds – it’s worth the effort.

Sow Sow courgettes, pumpkins, summer and winter squash, fennel, chicory.

Succession sow: beans (French and Runner), kale, pea, spinach, spinach beet, summer broccoli, carrot, swede, leek, lettuce, brussels sprouts, b e e t r o o t , c h i c o r y, endive, turnip, kohlrabi, fennel.

Plant out leeks, brussels sprouts, cabbage, autumn caulif lower, calabrese, sprouting broccoli, celery, celeriac, cucumbers, pumpkin, marrows, runner beans, aubergine.

Harvest We are now really starting to see some payback from our GIYing - the first broad beans and peas as well as new potatoes, new carrots, soft fruit like gooseberries, cherries and strawberries.

Herbs are in full flow.

Also harvest kohlrabi, cabbage, caulif lower (month end), spinach, spring onion, shallots, salad leaves, elderflower, rhubarb, salad leaves, onions, carrots, beetroot, garlic, sea-kale.

Michael Kelly is a freelance journalist, author and founder of GIY Ireland

Recipe of the Month – Broad Beans with Bacon JUNE is broad bean month – I love opening up the pods and seeing the little beans nestling in the comfy white fleece inside.

The little green gems love to be paired with bacon. This recipe serves 4-6.

Ingredients: • 30g butter • 4 slices unsmoked bacon • 1 medium onion, finely chopped • 500g broad beans, shelled • 125ml stock

MELT the butter in a pan.

Add the bacon and onion and fry until the onion is soft but not coloured.

Stir in the beans.

Add the stock and bring to the boil.

Cover and cook over a moderate heat for 6-8 minutes until the beans

are soft but not mushy.

If there is too much liquid in the pan at the end, boil briskly for 1-2 minutes to evaporate it.

Serve immediately – this will make a lovely side dish or served by itself with some crusty or toasted bread.

It’s now time to harvest and get some payback from all your hard work

14 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY Get the Cheryl red carpet look SHE may not have become an American sweetheart, but Cheryl Cole proved in Cannes that there are few who can rival her on the Red Carpet.

The glamorous singer took the French by storm when she appeared on the carpet with her hair slicked back to show off her stunning features and her gorgeous white dress with belt detail by Stephane Rolland.

Lisa Laudat, L’Oréal Paris’ Celebrity Hair and Make-up artist was responsible for the star’s make-up.

For a glowing complexion to add luminosity to Cheryl’s skin after arriving in Cannes from America, Lisa applied Youth Code Boosting Serum, followed by a light coat of Infallible Brush 24hr foundation in Golden Sand and contoured the cheeks with Glam Bronze Duo in Brunette. Under the eyes, Touche Magique concealer was gently applied.

Meanwhile, her golden eyes were achieved by mixing New L’Or L’Or L’Or Color Infallible eye shadow in Goldmine (available from September) and Color Infallible eye shadow in Endless Chocolate to the lids of the eyes.

Cheryl’s eyes were then framed with both Superliner and Contour Kohl eyeliners in black. To complete the golden eye look, Lisa applied Telescopic mascara in Carbon Black to Cheryl’s eye lashes.

Edited by Dawn Love

Spoiling your Dad on Father’s Day Roger & Gallet

FOUNDED in 1862 Roger & Gallet has a complete range of perfumes, shaving and fragrant care inspired by the masters of traditional barbering and is available from pharmacies nationwide.

L’Homme Shaving Foam is priced €13 and is a rich, thick shaving foam, which respects the skin, thanks to allantoin, an active ingredient with softening and soothing properties and aloe vera, a plant renowned since ancient times for its moisturising action.

It also contains an anti-bacterial agent to protect the skin.

L’Homme Aftershave Balm is priced €15, and is formulated to provide extra-special care. Its gel cream texture contains aloe vera and white tea that gives stressed, tired Roger & Gallet L’Homme shaving skin a new radiance and vitality. Skin is left soft and matte Foam, €13, (left) and L’Homme from morning to night.

Aftershave Balm, €15 La Roche-Posay

The well-known French brand has the perfect solution for every man’s skincare needs, especially those with sensitive skin.

Its XY Homme range combats skin sensitivity and problems, which result from regular shaving, including post-shaving irritation, ingrown hairs and persistent redness and post-shaving dehydration.

Check out its XY Homme Hydrating Barrier Gel (€18), which has customised hydration adapted to male skin physiology and its XY XY Homme Normalising AntiHomme Normalising Anti-redness Balm (€18), which not only soothes redness Balm, €18 (left) and XY razor burn, but hydrates sensitive skin.

Homme Hydrating Barrier Gel,€18

MooGoo is packed full of natural ingredients and includes shampoos, specialist balms, moisturisers and lip balms

Aussie phenomenon hits the shelves IT’S one of the beauty industr y’s best kept secrets, but now the Aussie phenomenon, MooGoo, is being stocked in Kerins Pharmacies in Blackrock and Dalkey.

The luxury band is

packed full of natural ingredients and includes shampoos, specialist balms, moisturisers and lip balms.

Amongst its most popular products is the brand’s new anti-aging

cream, which promises to help reduce the appearance of lines and sun damage.

According to the company, one of the key ingredients is Resveratrol, the latest break-

through compound found in red grapes.

For more information on the broad range of MooGoo products, and how to achieve healthy skin, visit www.moogoo. ie

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 15

16 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

Gazette Contacts Block 3A Mill Bank Business Park Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251 Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. - Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette.

The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

GAZETTE COMMENT

By Councillor Michael O’Donovan

A man of war - a man of peace The recent royal visit prompted Labour’s Cllr Michael O’Donovan to put some thoughts on paper about Republicanism, about the Queen, and about his granduncle Pat.

LET me start by congratulating the Gazette on the excellent photos of the Queen’s visit. Her visit to the Garden of Remembrance was remarkable, the warmth of the welcome she experienced was close to universal, and it set me thinking of what Republicanism now means to this country.

Growing up in Cork, the hero of our extended family was my granduncle, Pat O’Donovan.

Back in 1920, Pat was a member of a unit known as the Flying Column, and he was one of the 40 or so riflemen who took on and wiped out two lorry loads of “Auxiliaries” at Kilmichael in West Cork.

For several months previously these thugs in British uniform had been terrorising the villages and the countryside of Cork, particularly targeting and burning the homes of Republican supporters.

The fire-fight of Kilmichael lasted no more than half an hour, but at the end of it, all 18 of the British detachment lay dead, with the loss of three on the Republican side.

After the ambush there was a price put on Pat O’Donovan’s head and he spent months on the run but he still fought with the Flying Column in a number of other bloody skirmishes.

That year of war had a huge personal effect on Pat. When the truce came, he was unable to settle back

into farming life and his restlessness drove him, of all places, to Britain.

There he took an industrial job, married an Irish emigrant lady, and raised his family in north Wales.

Like all his comrades in the West Cork IRA, Pat despised the members of the Essex regiment and the Black and Tans, because of the brutal way they treated Republican prisoners, but he came to regard the British as a tolerant and welcoming people, and lived happily in the UK until his death in 1974.

Pat’s personal journey from man of war to man of peace mirrors, I think, the change in thinking that allowed the Queen’s visit to go ahead and be a success.

We can never forget that we were the victims of a British Empire that ruled other nations by force and intimidation, but recent important initiatives have changed the landscape.

These include the power-sharing executive which gives Nationalists a guaranteed role in government, the establishment of the PSNI, which has demonstrated that cross-community policing can work, and the fulsome apology given by David Cameron for the Bloody Sunday killings in Derry.

The silent bow of respect by the Queen at the Garden of Remembrance said more than any speech.

We may be moving to a definition of Republicanism that is more confident, and also more at ease, with our former occupier. There is now a chance that our future relationship with Britain will at least resemble a partnership of equals.”

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THANK YOU: RECOGNISING THE COMMITMENT AND DEDICATION OF UNSUNG HEROES

Honouring the work of all our volunteers ID you know that 2011 has been designated European Year of the Volunteer?

No! Well now you do; so, for those of you who’ve been thinking about volunteering but who’ve so far only paid this thought lip service, now is the time to do something about it. I mean, hasn’t your mother always told you that, “it’s far better to give than receive”.

But, have you ever wondered why people volunteer? I mean, why work for no pay? Right!

Well, while I believe there are various reasons why people choose to donate their free time and talents out of the goodness of their hearts, I would imagine that the most obvious one is having a sense of purpose.

This is usually driven by a need to give something back. Believe me, it’s absolutely immeasurable the positive difference a volunteer can make to a struggling charitable organisation.

So, with that sentiment in mind, I’d like to dedicate this week’s column to the Dublin SPCA’s unsung heroes, the lifeblood of our society; our wonderful, amazing, volunteers!

Yes, you all know who you are! You are the people who make

D

it all possible, who give unselfishly of your time, your love, your support, your compassion, your friendship, your humanity and your dedication to our staff and our animals, day in, day out.

You are a critical part of society. Without you we’d be lost.

Every hour of every day you, the Dublin SPCA volunteers make a worthwhile contribution to our work, both economically and socially.

In its 171-year history, the Dublin SPCA’s reputation has been steeped in tradition, not just for promoting humanity and compassion, not just for saving animals’ lives, but for its legion of volunteers who have imbued upon us, the staff, a sense of strength and spirit that has inspired us, making us realise just how privileged we are to have you.

We rely heavily upon your commitment, your love for our animals, your eagerness to help and we appreciate every single minute you give us.

You come here and you make a connection, not just with our animals but with us and with each other, giving everyone a sense of belonging, a sense that we are all working toward one common goal – to build

a better future for animals.

So, if sometimes we hold back on telling you just what a wonderful human being you are, or forget to mention that you’re doing an amazing job, please understand, we have an unending supply of appreciation for you in our hearts.

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

‘You are exceptional human beings, each and every single one of you’ --------------------------

We know and recognise your enthusiasm, it gives us heart. However, during those busy periods at the shelter, (er, like now while we’re in the middle of kitten season), we may forget to nurture that enthusiasm.

We may forget to say thanks, forget to say how cherished you are, how your unselfishness has helped shape our shelter.

But, deep down inside, we hold eternal gratitude for you and for the excellent work you do.

You have made our concerns your concerns and, for this, we love you and will always love you.

So, whether it’s simply

Dublin SPCA volunteers thanked for their fantastic contribution, every hour of every day

a case of saying “thank you for turning up today,” or “great job socialising those puppies,” you, our volunteers should know your contribution has managed to transform the repetitious tasks of daily shelter life into hours of mutual love, support and care.

And, in spite of whatever stresses that may come our way, please understand that you are not taken for granted.

Your help is appreciated, your presence enriches, you are the heart of our society, we honour your commitment and offer you our unyielding love and gratitude.

You are exceptional human beings, each and every single one of you.

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

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CALL 60 10 240 GOT A STORY? WE WANT TO KNOW!

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18 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs MEN GET MORE STRESSED:

THEY may be the butt of chauvinist jokes but it seems women drivers could end up having the last laugh, according to new research by satnav firm, TomTom. T h a t ’s b e c a u s e men’s stress levels soar a staggering seven times higher than a woman’s when stuck in heavy traffic.

Psychologists tested volunteers for the rise in stress chemicals in their saliva when caught up in a traffic jam. The levels for women in the study increased by 8.7% while stuck behind the wheel but for men it shot up by a worrying 60% in the same gridlock scenario.

That could be unhealthy as it puts pressure on the heart and can cause dizziness and breathing problems yet, remarkably, many had no idea they were suffering from stress.

IMPORTS WON’T PAY OFF – VW: EUROPEAN buyers of a US-built lowerpriced Passat would face thousands of euros in import charges, VW says.

Volkswagen has said that European customers importing lower-priced Passats built in its new US factory in Chattanooga, Tennessee, will end up paying more than if they buy a more expensive Germanbuilt Passat.

VW has done a test calculation to prove that importing the US-built vehicle into Europe would not pay off.

According to the calculation, transport, car testing and import duty costs, as well as the cost of retrofitting lights, will add thousands to the cost of the cars.

The new Ford Grand C-Max is the longer version of the C-Max, with seven seats and twin sliding doors

Ford take it to the Max Ford has boosted its C-Max options with a new seven-seat version. MICHAEL MORONEY drove the new Ford Grand C-Max ORD has added more options for the C-Max people carrier that was introduced to Ireland at the end of last year. The car retains its compact size and there is now the option of a sevenseat version.

For Ireland, Ford offers only diesel power in response to a market that is now overwhelmingly diesel due to lower motor tax rates and obviously better economy. For the C-Max there is the option of a 1.6-litre entrylevel diesel model or two versions of the 2.0-litre diesel.

My test car, which I took across the Irish Sea for a lengthy drive, was the smaller engine version with the higher Titanium specification. This 1.6-litre

F

SPECS: FORD C-MAX 1.6TDCI Top speed: 170 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 13.3 secs Economy: 21.7 km/litre (4.6 l/100km) CO2 emissions: 119g/km Road Tax Band: A (€104) Scrappage Eligible: Yes Warranty: 2 years Entry Price: €24,495

turbo-diesel engine has been upgraded, according to Ford, for better economy.

My test covered over 1,200km across Irish and British roads, with lots of motorway cruising. The 95bhp engine performs well on the open road, but there is a noticeable lack of power when needed. The engine torque at 230Nm is lower than some of the similar

size competition, such as the Renault Grand Scenic or Mazda5, and that’s noticeable when you want to push on.

The acceleration pace is 14.3 seconds for the bigger Grand C-Max; you shave a second off this for the slightly smaller fiveseat version. The Grand C-Max is a shade slower than the competition and that’s a power and torque feature, which the entry level, 1.6-litre diesel model is slightly short on.

The economy rating of the car is impressive at 20km/litre (4.9 litre/100km) and that’s marginally better than the competition.

Ford has a new sixspeed gearbox for the C-Max and it’s a joy to use.

The gear shift is smooth

and easy with the lever in a convenient position.

As a people carrier, a car like the Grand C-Max needs to have plenty of storage areas. With the seven seats in place, in my case six, as the smaller middle seat was absent, the boot storage area is a little limited. This makes cars like the Grand C-Max with the sevenseat capacity more suited to short, full-load runs.

If you are planning on a long, full family holiday journey with all the seats occupied, then you’ll have to consider investing in a roof box; there’s simply no room for a significant luggage load.

The extra row of seats is very useful for school runs and local jobs.

The car has lots of lit-

tle storage areas in doors, etc, and there are loads of options in terms of styling, including seat back trays.

The under-floor storage areas in the rear are a little small to be practical.

The seven-seat Grand C-Max also comes with a new rear seat belt minder system.

This alerts the driver if any of the seat belts in the second or third row seats are not correctly fastened; a helpful feature if young children are travelling in the car.

The entry-level cars are well fitted out with 16” alloy wheels, front fog lights, rear privacy glass, heated windscreen, Bluetooth voice control, air conditioning, electric front windows, remote radio CD and leather steering

wheel and gear knob. The bigger Grand C-Max gets rear parking sensors and foldable mirrors, power child locks, rear seat belt minder and electric rear windows included in the extra €3,000 price.

The safety deal also includes Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) which cannot be overridden.

The entry price for the C-Max models is €24,495, while you need to spend an additional €3,000 for the seven-seat Grand C-Max model.

The Grand C-Max is a solid car to drive, with a good driving position, modern styling and a high level of features. It needs more power at the lower end as it aims for better economy.

Don’t be mobile phone distracted this weekend IF you’re planning to be out on the roads this Bank Holiday weekend, you’d best focus on keeping safe and focused on driving. Gardai are expected to step up enforcement, not only for drink-driving and speeding offenders, but also for those talking and texting behind the wheel.

Every year there are thousands of injuries caused by people who talk or, worse still, text while driving their car or truck. I’ve seen them myself and it’s alarming, especially to see truck drivers sending texts.

US research has shown that nine percent of all drivers are talking on

mobile phones, which make them four times as likely to crash; and drivers who read or type text messages contribute to thousands of crashes per year. There is plenty of local anecdotal evidence to show that people being distracted by mobile phones cause thousands of accidents each year, many of which are

never reported.

We all need to spread the word about distraction and emphasise this point: No message or call is worth the risk; when you get into your car, truck or van, turn your phone off or use hands-free and, better still, put the mobile in the glovebox.

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY PORTMARNOCK: ASKING The inside’s out: B&Q’s latest range PRICE OF €475,000 of cutting-edge patio furniture B&Q are leaping into the summer mood with the launch of a selection of coun-

try, contemporary and heritage products that can help create the ideal environment for relaxing and entertaining outdoors in your garden.

The styles on offer are: Country, with rustic styles that never go out of fashion, including the Capri three-piece bistro set at €365; Contemporary, with sleek shapes and cool colours, with a range of B&Q’s cutting-edge chairs, tables and accessories to give a garden or conservatory a truly modern feel, with the Jersey garden set at €1,153; and Heritage, where B&Q can help introduce a sense of timeless elegance to your terrace or patio with woven rattan and intricate mosaic designs, including the Cobbo coffee set, at €970.

Number 104, Ardilaun, in Portmarnock is on the market with an asking price of €475,000

Super semi in Ardilaun NOEL Kelly Estate Agents are bringing No. 104 Ardilaun, Portmarnock, a four-bedroom semi-detatched family home, to the market for €475,000.

From the moment you open the hall door, you are impressed by the space and light this Sorohan-built home has to offer. The vendor is keen to sell, so make it a priority to inspect.

Modern in design and layout, this home provides comfort and flexible living accommodation that can adapt to the changing needs of any family.

The house is complimented by a secluded landscaped rear garden which is laid in lawn with a variety of shrubs and bordered by a colourful display of plants that contribute to the welcoming aspect which the property presents. The orientation is south facing and there is a large decking, perfect for al fresco dining in those summer months.

The front garden driveway is tarmacadam, providing parking for two or three cars.

The property also features a garage, which could be easily converted into a study should

the new owners require more space. Viewing is by appointment only, and can be arranged by contacting Noel Kelly on 01 846 2752.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with decorative timber floor, kitchen with fitted wall and floor units, integrated fridge freezer, oven hob and extractor fan, ceramic tiled floor.

The lounge has a marble fireplace and doors to the patio. Upstairs the bedrooms have fitted wardrobes, while the master bedroom has a walk-in wardrobe, sloping ceiling and storage space.

The bathroom has a new white suite, electric Triton shower, tiled floor and walls, shower screen and accessories.

The property also features a large garage, a side entrance and Upvc double-glazed windows.

The garage could be easily converted into a study should the new owners require more space, and the carpets, curtains and blinds are included in the sale.

Viewing is by appointment only, and can be arranged by contacting Noel Kelly on 01 846 2752.

PORTMARNOCK: A FOUR-BED DETACHED HOME FOR €695,000

Family home ultimate in relaxing elegance

NOEL Kelly Estate Agents are bringing No. 126, Drumnigh Wood, Portmarnock, a fourbedroom detatched family home set in a private estate, to the market for €695,000.

Houses in Drumnigh Wood are always sought after and this will be no exception. This prestigious development, which extends to c 156 sq m or c1,680 sq ft, is in a fine setting and the estate avails of 24-hour security surveillance.

No. 126, Drumnigh

Wood also features gas-fire central heating, decorative timber floors, a side entrance, two double garages, a cobblelock driveway, and a large, westerly orientation rear garden with patio.

Stylish decor, a cheerful ambience, spacious accommodation makes this the perfect home in which to live, entertain and provide the ultimate in comfort and relaxing elegance.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with wooden floor, a large

Number 126, Drumnigh Wood, in Portmarnock

living room with a feature bay window, a feature fireplace and connecting doors to the sunroom, which features velux roof lights. The kitchen/dining room has fitted wall and floor units, integrated oven hob and extractor, dishwasher, fridge freezer, a feature island unit, as well as a marble worktop and a tiled floor, and has a door leading to the util-

ity room. The three main bedrooms have fitted wardrobes and the master bedroom is en suite, with a power shower and tiled floor.

The main bathroom has a jacuzzi bath, tiled floor, recess lighting, and heated towel rail.

There is a large rear garden, which is laid out in lawn, with a variety of plants, shrubs, and patio.

There are a host of amenities close by, including the famous Velvet Strand and Promenade, the breathtaking coastal walk from Portmarnock to Malahide, the Sports and Leisure Centre, as well as excellent shopping and transport facilities.

Viewing is by appointment, and can be arranged by contacting Noel Kelly on 01 846 2752.

2 June 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Mark Bownes, Carpet and Flooring Concepts

Husband and wife team know flooring

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS WEDDING FUNDS AND INSURANCE Q – We are saving for our wedding in 18 months time, and trying to save € 650 a month. Where

MARK Bownes is married to Niamh and has two children, Isobel, who is three-years-old, and Nathan, who is one. When not working in the showroom, Mark enjoys taking them walking by the seaside in Dun Laoghaire.

Having worked in flooring retail for many years, Mark took over the family store with Niamh.

Niamh previously ran Curves’ fashions from the store with her mother, Muriel.

On Muriel’s retirement, Mark and Niamh have taken the business in a new direction, opening the successful Carpet and Flooring Concepts.

The husband-and-wife team have a great understanding of the carpet business and follow the latest colour and design trends.

Niamh is able to apply her fashion-buying background into helping customers put together the perfect colours when designing a room.

Mark Bownes, of Carpet and Flooring Concepts

is the best place to save and can you insure any part of a wedding ? Patricia – Dun Laoghaire A - Congratulations on setting the date and saving together at this stage augurs well for your future.

The very best type of account to save your money on a monthly basis is the Regular Saver Account – most of the deposit takers currently operate them. These were originally launched in 2007 by AIB Bank to continue the good saving habits of the SSIA investors. Simply put, you save between € 100 and € 1,000 per month for between 12 and 24 months, and you can earn up the 4% interest. Ulster Bank (Special Interest deposit account ) and EBS ( Family regular saver account ) are the two current best offering that 4%. In 18 months time, you will have saved € 11,700, plus interest to help you celebrate your big day. As regards the insurance, you can buy wedding insurance to cover such risks as • Cancellation

• Personal accident

• Rings, flowers and cake

• Wedding gifts

• Photography and video

• Legal expenses

• Ceremonial / bridal attire

• Personal liability

• Cars and transport

• Marquee extension

• Failure of suppliers

• Extended public liability

To cover a wedding up to c. €10,000 and take out three-star cover, the premium would be c. €80. Web sites to check out that offer such cover include,

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

A: A racing driver.

Q: What was your first job?

A: Selling furniture and beds in a department store.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: Just about enough to pay for a couple of nights out at the weekend.

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: Niamh and I opened carpet and flooring concepts in September 2010

Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed?

A: Yes, I helped out in a restaurant kitchen for a short time, chefs are exactly as we see on TV! Crazy!

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Getting positive feedback from our customers, it means we all did our jobs well for them.

Q: have you achieved anything

www.weddinginsurance.ie and www.irishwedddin-

that you once thought you could not pull off?

A: Yes, when we got engaged, I managed to surprise Niamh with a trip to Paris. She had no idea about the destination, even at the airport.

A: Pulp Fiction, never tire of watching it. Brilliant!

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

A: Jedward.

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Eating out occasionally.

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Five.

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

A: The floor fitting, apart from that, Niamh and I do everything.

Depeche Mode to UB40 and reggae.

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

A: A cup of coffee!

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Carpet and Flooring

Q: Is there anything about yourself that you would like to set the record straight on?

A: I very rarely have coffee at

Concepts.

split his head open on a boys’ holiday! Very funny after though, the doctor stitched his head ok, but had to shave a patch of his hair off! A unique look for the rest of the holiday.

Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update?

A: Probably carpet offers on

my desk!

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Richard Branson’s Necker

the shop’s Facebook page.

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: I watch football, and I am a

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: I like most foods, especially

Island with my family! Can you arrange that?

Spurs’ supporter.

Indian or Italian, so either with a nice red wine.

occasionally with my friends.

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

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

A: Enda Kenny.

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

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: Mainly music from the 80s,

Q: What sport can you play?

A: I play poor snooker and golf

ginsurance.ie - best of luck Patricia !

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

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: My mate, Charlie, fell and

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Ferrari test driver Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: Drive across America in a classic American car.

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

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS

CALL 60 10 240

22 GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Belfast Titanic Maritime Festival and the Sea Bangor Maritime Festival NORTHERN Ireland will be marking its rich seafaring history with not one, but two, summer festivals celebrating all things maritime. The Belfast Titanic Maritime Festival and the Sea Bangor Maritime Festival run on consecutive weekends in June and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) is urging visitors to jump aboard and enjoy the action-packed family events.

The Belfast Titanic Maritime Festival, taking place from June 24 – 26 at Queen’s Quay and Abercorn Basin, offers a weekend of fun and activity for all ages.

Some of the world’s most spectacular tall ships will sail into Belfast and members of the public will have the opportunity to board and explore many of the vessels. Among the flotilla will be the HMS Bounty, which proved very popular during its last visit to the city in 2009. The magnificent ship was built in 1784 and served in the British Admiralty after being commissioned as His Majesty’s Armed Vessel in 1787. Other famous tall ships docking for the festival include Lord Nelson, Pelican of London, Johanna Lucretia and Irene.

A wide range of activities will run alongside the visiting ships and families can enjoy street entertainers, arts and crafts, live music, and a variety of other family fun activities. Not to be missed are water-based spectator events, including a pirate battle re-enactment on the River Lagan between ships Zebu and Vilma.

Also arriving to Queen’s Quay as part of the festival will be the International Market, bringing tastes from all around the world.

The sixth Sea Bangor Maritime Festival takes place on June 18 and 19 at Bangor Marina and seafront in Co Down and highlights of this year’s festival include the return of HMS Bangor to the Eisenhower Pier, where visitors will have the chance to find out what life on a military ship is really like.

In the festival’s tented village, celebrity chef Matt Tebbutt joins many local suppliers to cook up a storm at the Food Fayre. Also in the tented village is Bangor’s first ever Baby Rave, complete with DJ, lighting, projections and pram parking.

To find out more about the Maritime Festivals, the Titanic tours, or for further information on places to stay or things to see and do in Northern Ireland, check out the free booking and advice service at NITB’s Tourist Information Centre in Suffolk Street Dublin 2, callsave 1850 230 230 or click on www.discovernorthernireland.com.

Waiting to relax in style in Wicklow LAURA WEBB

IF anyone had heard me on the way to Wicklow, they would have thought they were travelling with a very impatient three-yearold... are we there yet, are we there yet, I chanted in my partner, Johnny’s ear.

I’m not sure if it was the excitement of the weekend, or whether it was the fact that, in 45 minutes time, I was to be treated to a spa treatment that promised to rehydrate environmentally stressed skin and be the “ultimate indulgence” for anyone thinking of playing a spot of golf, or indeed after a round.

The trip from Dublin 15 to Druids Glen Resort in Wicklow took less than expected, and we arrived just a half an hour before my appointment with relaxation.

Druids Glen Resort in Wicklow is surrounded by lush landscapes and has plenty of amenities to offer, including a spa (below, left) and is also one of Ireland’s renowned hotspots for golfers

Landscape

We had heard of the beautiful surroundings of Druids Glen Resort, and upon arrival we weren’t disappointed with the amazing landscape and views in the background.

Walking into the hotel, we became extras in someone’s wedding who had arrived at the same time as us. Ducking our heads behind the newlyweds, I think we avoided ruining their welcoming and great picture opportunity.

Like any other girl, I just couldn’t help but have a proper look at the bride, who looked stunning in an off-white satin gown. Her bridesmaids were also just as beautiful in peach, taking pictures in the stunning foyer of Druids Glen.

With the bags now in the room, which are extremely spacious and well-designed, my other half and I were ready

for the “ultimate indulgence”.

The relaxation room in the spa looked incredible, definitely an area I would have no problem relaxing in after a massage.

We were both booked in for the Druids Glen signature treatment, also known as the Druids ritual involving a 45-minute all over massage and 30minute Elemis facial.

Joanne, miracle hands we will call her, worked wonders on relaxing my ever stressed mind and body.

The aroma in the

room, made by the smell of papaya in the Elemis skincare range, helped to send me deeper into relaxation. Combine that with the facial and it turns out that this ritual does exactly what it says on the tin.

Golf hotspot

Walking through the grounds, anyone can see, including a non-golfer like myself, why this is one of Ireland’s renow ned hotspots for golfers. And for any enthusiast, it is certainly one to experience.

For dinner there was just one word Johnny used to describe his meal of caramelised smoked duck starter, steak with stuffed tomato and banoffee pie, and that was “EPIC”.

For me, it was the tasty soup of the day, carrot and coriander. My main, baked crushed monkfish with pesto crust – was cooked to perfection with a leek and carrot ragout that left me wanting to lick the plate. A freshly cooked mixed-berry crumble with lemon posset also went down a treat.

Chatting with a lovely waitress, Maeve, rumours that the Welsh football team were staying at the hotel were confirmed, which made me love this hotel even more.

Well, if it is good enough for an international football team like the handsome Welsh, then it’s good enough for me.

To find out more about Druids Glen, or to see what special offers and room rates are available, log onto www.druidsglenresort.com

2 June 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

BudgetTravel Accommodation across the globe that won’t cost you the earth FOR a range of quirky and bizarre accommodation around the globe, that doesn’t cost the earth, go to www.hostelworld.com for some interesting and exciting choices.

Choose from sleeping in a giant mushroom, floating on water, or even curling up with the local wildlife in a tree house, to make your holiday an adventure that will never be forgotten.

For travellers looking for a change of scenery above and beyond the view outside the window, the travel experts at Hostelworld.com have handpicked their most popular unique and unusual hostels from around the world to excite the most adventurous of travellers.

Kadir’s Tree House in Turkey Scotland’s RockNess Festival has an iconic landmark as its backdrop

Rock the most beautiful, small festival in the world FESTIVAL fever is about to take over Scotland next weekend with RockNess, hailed as the Most Beautiful Festival in the World and winner of Best Small Festival at this year’s NME Awards.

While most festivals take place in vast fields and campsites, RockNess provides a surprising way to experience an iconic Scottish landmark – the world famous Loch Ness from June 10 to 12.

Over the weekend, festival-goers will experi-

ence the biggest headline acts with the mighty Kasabian unveiling tracks of their hotly anticipated new album for the first time on the Friday night, and dance icons, The Chemical Brothers, set to rock the Loch on Saturday night.

Speaking about their return to RockNess, Ed and Tom, of The Chemical Brothers said: “This will be the first time we have played in Scotland since 2008, and so it’s really exciting to be head-

lining one of our favourite festivals. RockNess is an amazing place to play and we can’t wait to be back there again.”

Buzzing

Scottish singer songwriter Paolo Nutini, who says he is “buzzing at the prospect”, will close the festival in a landmark gig on Sunday, June 12.

Other acts appearing this year include Mark Ronson, Nero and Katy B on the Friday, The Cribs, Annie Mac, Exam-

ple and comedian Sean Hughes on Saturday, and Glasvegas, The Wombats, We Are Scientists and Beardyman on Sunday.

Ticket details are available through www.rockness.co.uk, Ticketmaster or, for further information, email info@rockness.co.uk.

To plan your break to RockNess, and for a range of offers on accommodation and attractions throughout Scotland, visit www.visitscotland. com/surprise.

The Irish Three Tenors help Relaxing summer dining celebrate hotel birthday at Cullen’s at the Cottage TO celebrate The Heritage Golf and Spa Resort’s sixth birthday, the Irish Three Tenors will be playing live at the resort on Friday, June 3.

Joined by a star violinist, Ireland’s very own and hugely successful, John Scott, David Martin and Declan Kelly, the concert aims to raise funds for Emer O’Hora, team member at The Heritage Golf and Spa Resort, who is taking

part in the ladies, mini marathon on the June bank holiday weekend in Dublin in aid of the cancer support Cuisle Centre in Portlaoise.

A r a t e o f € 18 0 for a double delu xe guestroom, including breakfast and two tickets to the Three Tenors Concert is also available.

Visit www.theheritage.com, e-mail info@ theheritage.com or call 05786 45500.

CULLEN’S at the Cottage, on the grounds of Ashford Castle, opened its doors for informal summer dining recently.

A short stroll across the bridge from the castle lies the thatched cottage of Cullen’s, where locally sourced produce can be enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere.

Offering an a la carte menu, with a little something for everyone, there is also an evening

bar service topped off with evening entertainment. Cullen’s is open to Castle residents and non-residents alike.

Though reser vations are not essential, they are advised to avoid disappointment.

Cullen’s at the Cottage is open seven days a week, from 12pm to 10pm.

For more information contact 094 954 6003 or go to www.ashford.ie.

KADIR’S Tree House in Turkey gives every traveller the opportunity to live their childhood dream and sleep in a real tree house. There are over 45 to choose from and to get to them you must climb up ladders before resting for the evening. If you don’t feel like resting, you will enjoy a night out in one of the hostel’s three bars or two nightclubs. Rates are from €9.36 pp/per night – go to www.hostelworld. com/hosteldetails.php/Kadirs-Tree-House/Olympos/798.

Historic lighthouse in California ON the rugged California coast, just 25 miles south of San Francisco, sits the Point Montara Fog Signal and Light Station. Established in 1875, the historic lighthouse and turn-of-the-century buildings have been preserved and restored to create a unique and bizarre hostel. Today Point Montara Lighthouse is still a beacon for travellers from all over the world. Prices start at €19.30 pp/per night – go to http://www.hostelworld. com/hosteldetails.php/ HI-Point-Montara-Lighthouse/Montara/1838

Arkabarka Floating Hostel on the river Danube ARKABARKA Floating Hostel is situated in one of the most beautiful central parks of Belgrade, on the river Danube. This place uniquely combines the exotic natural feeling of the river, with the urban comfort of contemporary wooden architecture. There is a cozy cafe welcoming Belgradians, that gives guests the opportunity to mingle with locals.

Prices from €15, or go to http://www.hostelworld. com/hosteldetails.php/ ArkaBarka-Floating-Hostel/Belgrade/24507

24 SWORDS GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Corus Concert COMPRISING singers who may not have trained academically, yet can sing beautifully with joy in their heart, Corus – the choir that does not have auditions, does not require members to be able to read music, and is open to anyone who loves to sing – will see 80 members performing a wide range of songs.

From classic bands like The Beatles through to more contemporary acts like Bruno Mars, Chorus will hit all the right notes with an exciting and uplifting performance.

The concert starts on Thursday, June 2, at 8pm, with admission costing €10.

Tarry Flynn THE life of a 1930s’ Cavan farmer, poet and dreamer will be brought to vibrant life in a celebratory fifth anniversary show at The Mill, which is marking its birthday in style with this superb production. There’s something for everyone in this production, with this tale of a simple man with a complex heart from a bygone era having much to enjoy for audiences today. The production runs from Wednesday, June 8 to Saturday, June 18, with admission priced at €18, €15.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 The Ballet Ruse THE beautiful world of ballet may be sent spinning – or pirouetting – by two budding ballerinas, who go from bar to barre in a bid to fulfil their dreams. Lady GaGa rubs shoulders with Tchaikovsky in a show that’s not afraid to step up to the mark to present wonderful, imaginative dancing with a twist. The Ballet Ruse plays at 8pm in the Main Auditorium on Saturday, June 4, at 8pm, with admission priced at €15/€12 conc.

The Chastitute ONE of Ireland’s best-loved plays comes to life at Draiocht, as Going Out turns to another rural farmer, this time in Kerry, where John Bosco is a middle-aged countryman reflecting on his life. Stuck in eternal celibacy, thanks to all kinds of reasons – and not a little bad luck – John Bosco reflects on his predicament, even though not everything he blames for his situation may have actually happened ...

Staged in style by the skilled members of the Coolmine Drama Circle, this is a fine, comedic play that theatregoers will love. The Chastitute plays at 8.15pm in Draiocht Circle until Saturday, June 4, with admission priced at €16/€13 conc.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Ghosts AWARD-winning Irish playwright Frank McGuinness has turned his considerable skills to bear on a dramatic new version of Isben’s Ghosts, presented here by London Classic Theatre.

Telling of the preparations for the opening of an orphanage in tribute to her husband, the widow Helene Alving is awaiting the return of her son, Oswald, for the momentous occasion. However, his return turns the fraught event down a road that could lead to tragedy, as the ghosts of long-past events and secrets begin to come out ... Ghosts will be staged at 8pm from Thursday, June 2 to Saturday, June 4, with admission priced from €15.20 to €21.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 The Witches ROALD Dahl’s classic tale of witches and clever children comes screaming into town with a bewitching production, adapted by David Wood. Ranging in age from threeyears-old up to adults, Witches promises to put everyone under its spell, as dastardly plans must be foiled by some clever kids, if they can overcome their fears of the scary w-w-witches ... The production is running nightly at 7pm until this Saturday, June 4 with admission priced at €15, or €10 for children aged under 10.

In this reboot for the X-Men series, we turn to the 1960s where, once upon a time, Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Erik Lehnsherr (Michael Fassbender) were friends, before Professor X (Charles) would use his special powers to protect Humanity, and Magneto (Erik) his, to attack it

The neXt instalment With a stiff breeze from the Cold War behind it, this film franchise reboot should be a bit of a hot property again Q KATE CROWLEY

THESE are historic times we live in. Newspapers all around the world are cranking out articles based on the same big story, sharing something that the Irish people, and Dubliners, can all look back on and remember, for years to come.

Yes, that’s right – Mel Gibson is almost back on our screens, with The Beaver.

However, Mel, and his bizarre film (telling of a troubled man who learns to laugh, to live, to love again – all courtesy of the beaver hand puppet which he uses to communicate with the world) ain’t this week’s gem, folks, but we do have a highly-polished film for your consideration, instead.

Remember the X-Men? No, not Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh, but, rather, the hit series of

FILM OF THE WEEK: X-Men: First Class ++++ (12A) 132 mins Director: Matthew Vaughn Starring: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Oliver Platt, Kevin Bacon, January Jones, lots of determined Mutants

OUR VERDICT: PURISTS may moan about the origins of two of the most iconic comic book characters of all time, let alone the way in which they gather their respective gangs, but there’s still a briskly enjoyable film here. True, there are still a few too many lashings and lashings of angst, oh, the angst for Kate to stomach, but it’s a good, and thoughtful, reboot for a franchise that had become a little stale ...

films from a few years ago, telling of the popular Marvel Comics characters.

Starring Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellan, as well as – well, nobody remembers the other characters, bar Hugh Jackman as Wolverine – the films were a pretty decent sci-fi series, before eventually wobbling and coming to a juddering halt under the weight of their own gravitas and the angst, ooh, the angst!

Cue the inevitable Hollywood reboot for

the series, and, in triedand-tested fashion, it’s time to delve deeper into the origins of the X-Men, before they were X-Men, before Mutants came out of the woodwork (or walking through walls, or flying through the air, or turning into steam, or whatever).

Following the mythology of the recent films, X-Men: First Class jumps back to the youth of the series’ chief protaganists; Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Erik Lehnsherr (Michael

Fassbender); back to the 1960s, before the world truly knew of the Mutants among Man. Here, when they were just Charles and Erik, rather than Professor X and Magneto, the two young men, coming from very different pasts, spark up an unlikely but intense friendship, respecting the opposing qualities in each other’s unique powers and skills.

Howe ve r, w h e r e Charles seeks to educate the world about how Mutants should be respected as equals, Erik sees Mutants as the next step for humanity, and superior to ordinary men, whom he sees as an evolutionary dead end.

With the world suddenly thrown into peril, thanks to the Cuban Missile Crisis, the opportunity to take Mutants out of hiding presents itself.

However, where one

would seek to use extraordinary powers to stop the crisis, another sees an opportunity to change the order of things, on a global scale.

The only problem is, the Hellfire Club, led by Sebastian Shaw (Kevin Bacon), is also working away behind the scenes, and the secret society will play a greater role on the X-Men’s future than at first appears ...

The shadow of Stewart and McKellan looms large over First Class, but McAvoy and Fassbender do well, taking such iconic and defined characters and putting an interesting spin on them.

Briskly moving along at a satisfying pace, coupled with some punchy action pieces, and with some interesting thoughts befhind all the bombast and CG set pieces, I have to give some good marks for this First Class ...

2 June 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 25

A Cloud is a core plan for Apple ADAM MAGUIRE

THE way that people buy and listen to music has changed dramatically in recent years –Apple’s iTunes has been at the centre of that.

Now, Apple is about to launch a new product that could shake things up once more, so what will it do, and what makes it so special?

The idea Apple has recently been signing a number of agreements with music companies such as EMI and Sony to let its artists be carried on a new, online music service.

The idea is that people will pay for access to songs “in the cloud”, rather than having them downloaded to their computer.

Why do this?

People nowadays often use a lot of different devices on a daily basis.

They might have a home and office computer, a phone in their pocket, and maybe even a tablet.

Keeping all of your songs up to date on all of these things can be a bit of a balancing act, so the idea here is that you will not have to.

If you want to hear the songs you bought, you just need to go online and play them, hassle-free.

The cost Apple has been tight-

lipped about the service, so it is currently unclear how it will be offered.

It might be that you pay for access on a songby-song basis; it is also quite possible to be a subscription service, where you pay a monthly fee to access the entire catalogue of music.

Another potential route is that it simply acts as an online “locker”, where people can put the music they have already bought online so that it is accessible anywhere.

When will it launch?

Rumours are it will be unveiled by Apple at a conference in early June.

However, it might take a while for it to hit Irish shores, though, especially if country-specific rights deals have to be hammered out first.

Are there any alternatives?

Yes. Amazon have a cloud player, and Google recently launched its Music Beta service in the US. Both allow users to upload their music online so that they can access it wherever they are.

Another option is Spotify, which has a massive catalogue of music that can be streamed by users, without ads, for a monthly fee.

However, that is also currently not available in Ireland ...

Epson BX320FW While technically an office printer, the Epson BX320FW is affordable, and useful enough, to find pride of place in any home or even home office.

Boasting high print speeds, greater ink efficiency and an easy setup, there is a lot for the BX320FW to live up to.

After all, the printe r m a r ke t is quite c r owd e d at the moment, e v e n when it comes to those that offer print, scan and copy facilities.

However, this device holds its own in every regard. It is fast, quiet and efficient and, once you have a wireless network at home, it is very easy to set up.

At the front of the device is a very straightforward panel – much like one you would see

on a photocopier, only more simple – which makes it very easy indeed to navigate and use.

This printer is not the

smallest in the world, but it would be ideal for any user that will be printing a lot of documents, and the occasional photo.

It also comes with a range of software to make the process of

editing and printing scanned documents all the easier.

It’s cer tainly well worth considering for users looking for more

than your basic printer fare.

The Epson BX320FW printer is available on Pixmania.ie for €193, plus P&P. Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

GAZETTE

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 2 June 2011

SWORDSclassifieds

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Beginners and Improvers 6 week Sewing Classes on Dress Making and Home Furnishings resuming in September. Half Day workshops also resuming in September. Contact us at www.sewgreat.ie or www.pressxpress.ie, call 01 8227650 or email info@ sewgreat.ie

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2 June 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

MONTH OF MAY: Last month’s Sports Awards winners are announced: Page 29

LADIES’ FOOTBALL: LOCAL PLAYERS NAMED IN THE DIVISION 2 TEAM OF THE YEAR

Jackies’ defence takes all places on Team of Year sport@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN’S Cliodhna O’Connor (Naomh Mearnog), Sinéad Goldrick (Foxrock Cabinteely), Ailish McKenna (St Brigid’s), Gemma Fay (Ballyboden St Enda’s) and Sinead Aherne (St Sylvester’s), along with Siobhan McGrath, were named in the Bord Gais Energy Ladies’ Football Division 2 Team of the League at a ceremony in Croke Park last week.

In total, 26 counties are represented in the 60 players selected and each player was presented with a specially commissioned kit to mark their achievement.

The selection process is led by team managers and referees who were asked to nominate players after each round of league matches, and managers are precluded from voting for their own players.

Speaking at the

announcement Pat Quill, President of Ladies Gaelic Football said, “It is a great personal honour for the players to be selected.

All counties have talented players and these awards may be the only opportunity that players from counties who do not reach the final stages of competitions get to be recognised.

“I thank the county managers and referees for their diligence in their nominations. These are

Cliodhna O’Connor, Sinead Goldrick, Ailish McKenna, Gemma Fay and Sinead Aherne, with Siobhan McGrath

also coveted awards by the managers in recognition of their team building skills.”

Division 2 champions, Dublin, will be thrilled with their contingent as they secured six places

and, with a goalkeeper and four defenders among them, perhaps it shows where others felt their true strength lay throughout a dominant league campaign.

The other nine places

were shared between five counties, with Meath leading the way with four places – Shauna Bennett, Katie O’Brien, Gráinne Nulty and Mary Sheridan – while Cavan, the only team to beat Dublin all

year, took home two selections for Gráinne McGlade and Aisling Doonan. Armagh, Waterford and Sligo completed the Division 2 Team of the League selection with one player each.

28 SWORDS GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport GAA

Fingallians’ Sarah Deegan

Dublin U-14s

Junior Jackies trounce the Tribe UBLIN booked their place in the 2011 All-Ireland U-14 final with a hard-fought win over reigning champions, Galway, in St Loman’s GAA, Mullingar, last week.

The goals scored were to be the deciding factor when Dublin rattled the Galway net on six occassions.

Dublin had the advantage of a strong wind behind them in the first half, and led at the interval by 4-3 to 1-5.

Galway threw everything at Dublin in the second half, but the young Dubs dug deep and defended their goal line tightly to secure this vital win.

The final score was Dublin 6-6, Galway 2-9.

Dublin will play Munster champions, Cork, in the All-Ireland final on June 11 or 12.

Dublin’s Amy Deegan, from Round Towers, in action against Galway. Pictures: GAApics.com

Kate Murray (Naomh Olaf) St Brigid’s Ann-Marie Troy

Megan Morrissey (Castleknock)

D

Emma Byrne (Castleknock)

Saoirse Tulie (St John’s Ballinteer)

Foxrock Cabinteely’s Socha Whooley

2 June 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 29

in association with

KARATE: CLUB SHOWS STRENGTH HOME AND AWAY

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS MAY WINNERS IN ASSOCIATION WITH

+ STARof theMONTH

RYAN O’DWYER KILMACUD Crokes’ star Ryan O’Dwyer produced a truly outstanding performance to help Dublin annex their first National Hurling League division one title since the 1930s.

He was named man-ofthe-match in the Dubs’ comprehensive 0-22 to 1-7 success over Kilkenny in the final.

TEAMof theMONTH + SWORDS CELTIC

SWORDS Celtic enjoyed a memorable month, claiming nine league and cup titles across the various NDSL and DDSL competitions in a bumper three-week period.

The titles ranged from U-8 up to U-17 level, with several Premier gongs among them.

MAY was another month when the great and good of Dublin sport came to the fore and the matter of choosing winners for the Dublin Sports Awards was particularly hard.

But, looking at the achievements by each of the contenders, two clear champions emerged from among the pack.

Ryan O’Dwyer’s huge performance for Dublin in the defeat of Kilkenny, the perennial hurling supremos of recent years, was worthy of our acknowledgement.

And, with nine titles in league and cup competition across all age ranges at the club, Swoirds Celtic showed their commitment to youth develop-

ment and top-level coaching that will see them and their players be a part of our collective soccer consciousness for years to come.

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

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

You can also check out the latest stories from GazetteSport at our new website, www.gazettegroup. com.

Leeanne Royle accepts the Charles Naylor Memorial Trophy from Sensei Andy Sheery in Birmingham

Corduff hail a real Royle performance CORDUFF Karate Club’s Leeanne Royle was recently awarded the prestigious Charles Naylor Memorial Trophy for the most outstanding child competitor at the Karate Union of Great Britain’s National Championships at the NIA Birmingham.

The competition, which is in it’s 45th year, is by far the largest championships in Britain, with over 1,000 competitors battling it out for a place in the finals.

As part of the USKF Ireland team, Leanne stormed her way through

the eliminations of the girls kumite (fighting) event and went on to win the title. Leeanne also took home a bronze medal for the Under-16 kata event.

This special award, presented by the KUGB chief instructor Sensei Andy Sherry, is a major achievement for Leeanne and the Corduff Karate Club, as it is the first time in the history of this tournament that an Irish person has won this particular prize or been placed first in their event.

Four other students

Camp for champions: Leinster launch 2011 summer training LEINSTER players Eoin Reddan, Isa Nacewa and Richardt Strauss, along with local kids Neil Durkan, John Durkan,and James Durkan-Watson were on hand to launch the Volkswagen Leinster Rugby summer camps, which will run throughout the city in July and August. Players will be taught by fully-accredited IRFU coaches and two senior Leinster players are expected to visit each camp along with the Heineken Cup. For a full list of venues or to book a place please log on to www.leinsterrugby.ie/summercamps.

took part in the Karate Union of Great Britain’s National Championships as part of the USKF Ireland team.

Corduff’s James Farrelly, Mark Maguire and Eleanore Coates fought well but narrowly missed out on places in the finals.

In the junior male category, Ryan Cullen beat some tough opponents to secure a bronze medal in his event.

The club also recently sent a squad of 30 students to compete in the tenth USKFI National Championships held in

the Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown.

The competition, which was the largest to date, saw many of the Corduff competitors being placed in the finals.

For some of their junior members, this was their first major national competition, and they displayed their competitive attitude and spirit, in particular, Yacine and Yusuf Ghanem. The two brothers fought some very spirited matches, but eventually Yacine pipped Yusuf to take home the prize.

30 SWORDS GAZETTE 2 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Swords’ charity ride: Local cycle club head to Galway for Haiti TEAM AN POST SWORDS were a part

Swords Celtic hailed by mayor and local heroes LORD Mayor of Fingal, Ken Farrell, and Watford goalkeeper Rene Gilmartin came to Swords Celtic last weekend to make presentations to players and teams in what has been the club’s most successful season for many years.

The Lord Mayor spoke of the close working relationship Swords Celtic have with Fingal Co Co and congratulated the club on its continued development.

Gilmartin, meanwhile, recalled playing at Balheary at a time when the club’s only facilities was the grass on which the football was played, prior to the development of the clubhouse.

Awards were made to each of the seven-a-side teams with the eleven-a-side teams given awards for Top Goalscorer, Player of the Year and Most Improved Player.

Rivervalley call for minileagues RIVERVALLEY Rangers annual mini-leagues football festival is due to start Tuesday, June 7 and run through to prize-giving day on Sunday, June 26.

Competition is open to all boys and girls born between 1996 and 2005 with matches played at the club’s Ridgewood pitches.

Applications can be downloaded from the Application Form link on the club’s website at rvrfc.com and will be accepted up to Friday, June 3 and should be e-mailed to petercarton@ rvrfc.com. Any queries, please contact Michael

of the massed group of riders who took part in the Cycle4Haiti ride from Dublin to Galway recently. Pictured at the finish line in Eyre Square are Team An Post, Trevor Pigott and David Kelley (from An Post, Swords), Michael Kirwan and Seamus McCormack (from An Post, Navan).

The 225km charity cycle from Dublin to Galway raised €125,000 for the Soul of Haiti Foundation.

INTERNATIONAL: LOCAL STAR MAKING WAVES FOR WOLVES

Reilly at 086 242 1935.

Cluskey into Futures draw with victories SWORDS man James Cluskey made it through the three rounds of qualifying at the Israel F6 Futures event earlier this week in Ashkelon.

He got the better of local man Eden Peleg in a very tight second round encounter 7-5, 7-6 before facing another Israeli in the final round of qualifiers.

Facing Matan Shay Ganzi, he had a much more comfortable ride, winning out 6-2, 6-1 to reach the main draw of the competition.

A season of success was capped for Matt Doherty, left, when he was picked for Ireland’s Under-19s against Italy last week

Doherty shines for Ireland sport@gazettegroup.com

S WOR D S ’ M a t t h e w Doherty’s impressive season took another major step for ward when he was part of the Republic of Ireland side who qualified for the European Championship Under-19 finals in July, after recording an impressive 3-0 win over Italy on Sunday in Kolobrzeg, Poland.

Doher ty lined out in the back four once again, following a season in which he had moved to the brink of the first team in Wolves, making his debut for Mick McCarthy’s side

in the FA Cup. Impressive performances in pre-season friendlies for Bohemians against Wolves and Aston Villa went a long way to help earn a move to Wolves in August of last year and the Swords’ man has been an integral part of this European campaign.

Four points from their first two matches left Ireland needing to defeat mini-group leaders Italy in their final game to secure the one qualifying berth into the finals.

And they delivered in spades when Conor Murphy fired Ireland

ahead on the half hour before substitute Sean Murray and Joe Shaughnessy added two more in the second half to clinch the victory and qualification.

Italy finished with nine players after having two sent-off in the final stages.

In action An Ireland side, w h i c h s h owe d t wo changes from the side that drew with Ukraine a couple of days earlier due to suspensions of Anthony O’Connor and Eoin Wearen, were quickly into the action.

Francesco Bardi in

the Italian goal had to be on his guard to foil a stinging shot by Irish midfielder Declan Walker on 16 minutes.

But there was little the Livorno keeper could do just past the half hour when Murphy hared onto a through ball and lifted it over the advancing custodian for the precious opener.

For the third game r unning, John O’Sullivan was at his brilliant best again and worked Bardi with another effort shortly after the restart when he was put clear on goal.

But Ireland wouldn’t have long to wait for

another opening and when Kevin K night picked out fellow substitute Sean Murray with a cross, the Watford youngster showed tremendous composure to slot home.

Italy nearly halved the arrears ten minutes later when Aaron M c C a r e y ’s c r o s s b a r was clipped with a shot that deflected off John Egan.

That proved to be the only scare though as Joe Shaughnessy made the game safe by rattling the net with a shot inside the box af ter Conor Murphy had set up the Aberdeen defender.

2 June 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 31

in association with

AFL 5: BALLYBODEN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF CONDITIONS

CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS CONGRATULATIONS to Sarah Deegan

Well done to Sarah Deneher who

on a great display as Dublin went

helped Dublin to a silver medal with

through to the U-14 girls’ All-Ireland

her performance at the National

final. The Dublin junior footballers

Cross Country relays in Athlone

advanced in Leinster with Ciaran

over the weekend.

McLoughlin part of the panel.

next outing in Ashbourne GC from

ing the week 2.17 to 2.7. U-13B and

2 to 3.30pm on Friday, June 24. A

U-14B footballers and U-12 girls

timesheet for this outing will be

were also victorious.

available in the club in two weeks.

All the local primary schools are invited to participate in blitzes in

AFL 5 Innisfails 0-8 Ballyboden Wanderers 2-9 STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

WANDERERS made the best of favourable firsthalf wind and hill advantage last Thursday night in Balgriffin to leave Innisfails right in the relegation mix in AFL5, as they pass the halfway mark in the season.

With squally winds coming from the airport end of the top pitch, damage control in the face of those conditions was always going to be the order of the day.

But ’Fails were sprung early, conceding 1-3 inside the opening ten minutes as David Costigan’s unattended catch and flashing finish built an imposing lead from which the hosts never recovered.

At times in the second half, gaps opened for the likes of Mark McCluskey and Matthew Keenan but Bren Boyle’s defence kept clean shooting chances to

a minimum.

It left the hosts frustrated, closing to four points with ten minutes to go but never getting properly in range.

The towering figure of Garry O’Sullivan was key in the endgame as with Karl Boland’s kickouts into the breeze held up in midfield, the Wanderers’ midfielder picked off plenty of catches and ensuing frees to wind down the clock.

And when a superb set of hand-passes created the chance for Liam Murphy to net a second goal, it was two points ground out.

The southsiders got off to a dream start, Murphy’s free augmented

by Costigan’s 1-1. John Healy twice stormed forward from the half-backs while Carl Ennis tacked on another.

In response, Keenan responded with three identikit frees from the right corner but their bid was further hampered by a nasty injury sustained by full-back John

McEvoy.

A fine team point from Costigan and a pair from Murphy helped to build the lead to 1-8 to 0-3 at the break, a decent wedge but also a vulnerable one given the difficulty facing uphill.

Indeed, that point was proven when Keenan boomed over from 50 metres out, with the wind playing its part. Derek Burke’s kick-outs were dropping on the 40 to pin Wanderers back.

Healy did cancel out that point but it began an 18-minute scoreless period for the Ballyboden side with just Murphy’s goal coming in the last 26

minutes of the tie.

Little by little, ’Fails chipped away, Tone Taaffe and Jason Devoy’s overthe-shoulder effort building some momentum.

Taaffe added a fine second while substitute David Bowe got the Balgriffin club to within four.

There was still time for a late surge but it was cut short as the lively Damian Gallagher and Emmett Farrell transferred the ball with real pace.

Shouts to clear the ball were calmly ignored by Murphy who coolly rolled it low to the bottom right corner across the bows of Derek Burke.

eoin.cullen@aviva.ie The club would like to wish Tommy

on Thursday, June 19, and will con-

Reilly, senior, a speedy and full

tinue up till June 25.

recovery.

next Saturday, June 4, at 10am.

Innisfails’ early slip hinders effort

Further information available from

Fingallians GAA Club, commencing

The Academy goes ahead as usual

Innisfails could not match the early attack from Wanderers, and consequently lost out in their AFL 5 match

The Club Golf Society has their

Adult hurlers beat St Brigids dur-

The latest Lotto numbers drawn were 4, 5, 8, 10 and 20.

FINGAL RAVENS ANNUAL golf classic last Saturday

Daly and Ed Prunty, also to Ann Fox

was a great success; thanks to our

for getting in sponsorship and to

main sponsor, Pat McDonagh.

Andy Kettle for doing the auction.

Thanks to everyone who played or

Also a big thanks to Jessica and

sponsored a tee box, thanks also to

Clodagh Manning for selling raffle

Swords Open and to Kettle’s Hotel

tickets all day on Saturday.

for the food afterwards.

Well done to the winning team of Noel, Willie, Joey and David.

Junior B team play Ballyboughal at home this Thursday at 7.30pm in the cup.

A big thank you to all on the Golf

Well done to all the boy and girls

Committee for the work they put

from Rolestown school who made

in to make this fundraiser so suc-

their first holy communion on Sat-

cessful, Pat Kinsella, Maura Norton,

urday.

Alan Manning, Jackie Flynn, Anne Convery, Declan O’Brien, Audrey

Committee meeting this Thursday at 9pm in Kettles Hotel.

ST FINIAN’S THE adult ladies’ football team had

raiser with minimum input. Please

a good win last week. Emma Brady

support.

made a great save from a penalty.

A cake and book sale will take

Memberships are overdue.

place in the clubhouse on Saturday,

Remember you must be a fully paid

June 11, from 11.30am. Donations of

up member to obtain tickets for

cakes and books can be left in the

Dublin matches through the club.

clubhouse on the morning of June

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 2, 4, 13 and 14. There was no winner of

11 from 10.30am. We hope that all teams will support this event.

the jackpot worth €5,000. The €50

The Fun Day is taking place on

winners were Alan Delaney and

Sunday, June 19 from 2 to 5pm. Fun

PNLN. Next week, the jackpot will

for all the family. More details to

be €5,100.

follow next week but keep the date

Following the success of our last

free.

clothing collection another date

A sponsored cycle will take place

has been fixed for Saturday, June

on June 18 and June 19. Sponsorship

11. We need you to donate your

cards will issue soon and we hope

clean unwanted clothes, bed linen,

that club members will take a card

old duvets, pillows, towels, includ-

and raise as much sponsorship as

ing bags, shoes belts and soft toys.

possible. We need at least 45 adults

Clothes can be dropped off to club-

to take part in the cycle which will

house at following times:

take place in the clubhouse on spe-

Tuesday, June 7 to Friday, June 10, from 7.30pm to 9pm Saturday, June 11, from 10.30am to 12.30pm. All bags will be collected at 1.30pm. This is a great fund-

cial cycles. As part of the fun day a juvenile cycle will take place on Sunday, June 19.

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

ALL OF YOUR SWORDS SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

RISING STAR: Local soccer player shines as Ireland U-19s defeat Italy P30

JUNE 2, 2011

STARRY EYED: May Sports Awards winners revealed P29

GazetteSPORT

Sanita Puspure and team mate Lisa Dilleen celebrate their excellent performances at the World Cup rowing event in Munich last weekend

Puspure puts in world class row Kinsealy resident shows her potential to reach 2012 Olympics but must still wait over passport concerns STEPHEN FINDLATER swordssport@gazettegroup.com

SANITA Puspure once again showed her potential as a possible Olympian as, working in tandem with 19 year-old Lisa Dilleen, she pulled off a remarkable result at rowing’s World Cup regatta in Munich last weekend.

The pair are the newest duo, banding together just three weeks ago to pick up fifth place in the double sculls, a result which would see the pair on the verge of Olympic qualification should it be replicated later his summer.

Ireland will bid to earn one of the eight qualifying spaces from a regatta in Bled in 13 weeks time and, with just Canada, New Zealand and Australia absent of the contenders in Munich, Kinsealy resident Puspure and Dilleen set a fine early season marker.

For the latter, it was a first ever senior regatta, emerging from the U-23 circuit she raced in 2010 whilst completing her Leaving Certifi-

cate.

And while their pairing is a new one, it is one which High Performance Director Martin McElroy was not surprised gelled instantly. ”They’re two very complementary characters. They train hard but are good fun to work with. The timing has worked out quite well because they have put in the hard work over the winter so, while they haven’t been together a huge amount of time, that wasn’t really an issue.

“If they can spend a bit more time together, that will bring it out even more. Fifth place in their first World Cup regatta, it’s pretty impressive.”

Eligible A spanner in the works, though, could be Puspure’s eligibility. She previously represented Latvia at youth level but has been resident in Ireland for the past five years, recently submitting an Irish passport application.

Currently, she can compete at World Cup level but is not allowed enter Olympic events until this issue is sorted and so now faces a race against time for the administration process to take its course.

Dilleen and Puspure produced a fine race in their semi-final, dicing with Romania down the course to secure second in the closing stages.

In Sunday’s final, Romania reversed that position in the closing stages to take fourth while favourites Britain, the United States and Belarus took the medals.

But Puspure was nonetheless delighted with their performance.

“We were focusing more on having a good row every time and just pushing the boundaries; checking how far we could go. That brought us to the A Final, which is great.

“Today, we were just a bit tired from the weekend, but I think we did great overall, considering we have had just a few weeks in the boat. I think it is a great achievement.”