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Month XX, 2012 malahide • Balbriggan • Applewood • boroimhe • Airside • Portmarnock • Kinsealy • clarehall

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Well done, dad: Graduates get certs at ITB Football:

Margaret’s claim title in fine fashion Page 31

ABIMBOLA Makinwa was

congratulated by his eightyear-old daughter, Numi, at ITB recently, where the classes of 2015 were graduating. This year saw the highest number of ITB graduates honoured at the college’s annual conferring ceremony, in which more than 940 full- and part-time students received awards in various disciplines.

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James Cluskey retires from world circuit Page 29

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Cultural centre is king of the castle €9m funds agreed for proposed civic centre set in the heart of Swords

 keith bellew

FUNDING of €9m has been allocated towards the proposed Swords Civic and Cultural Centre, which includes the Swords Castle lands, as part of the Fingal County

Council Capital Programme 2016-18. The overall project will include a new major central public and civic space outside Swords Castle, new library/civic centre building to sit alongside County Hall,

new landscape interventions in the park and the town, and the creation of a hub or cultural quarter on North Street and Main Street. Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) said he was delighted that the castle had finally been

opened to the public. He said: “It is great to see the castle – the focal point of Swords – being used more and more and this will only increase in years to come.” Full Story on Page 3

2 SWORDS Gazette 12 November 2015

levy Fingal County Council vote maintains 15% cut

Property tax move is too little, says McGuinness  Emma Nolan

Homeowners and businesses will be relieved to hear that Fingal County Council has voted to maintain last year’s 15% reduction in the local property tax. Council members reached the decision on November 3 and so the local authority will forgo increased tax revenues of up to €5.6m. The reduction in the basic rate will ensure that property owners face no

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Cllr David McGuinness (Ind) said it was important to keep the local property tax as low as possible “because residents in Dublin pay more for smaller homes than homeowners throughout the rest of the country” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Council members have voted to maintain last year’s 15% reduction in the local

increases in their 2016 bills as charges will be frozen at 2015 levels. This leaves the council discretionary LPT income at €2.4m and reduces the charge due to be paid by property own-

ers in Fingal by €5.6m. Cllr David McGuinness (Ind) voted to maintain the reduction but said it was important to keep the LPT as low as possible “because residents in Dublin pay more

for smaller homes than homeowners throughout the rest of the country”. But Cllr McGuinness said the “anti-Dublin” move was not enough, and that families would see no cuts to their property tax bill this year. The council budget was agreed at €214m due to the improvement in the economy and the strength of commercial development in Fingal. A council spokesperson said this sum should provide for an increase in services, reduce the tax burden on citizens while also funding a broad and diverse range of services. The council has identified housing, community development and economic development as key budgetary priorities for the coming year with 23.5% of the budget going towards housing and building. The adopted budget has been welcomed by Fingal county manager, Paul Reid who said: “The council is committed to delivering value for money and also to increasing awareness among the people of Fingal as to how their local

property tax

property tax and commercial rates contributions are reinvested in the county, with Budget 2016 one of the most strongly supported budgets of recent years.” Labour councillors voted against the LPT move, voting to reduce it by 10% rather than 15% – the maximum allowed.

Reduction Cllr Mary McCamley (Lab) told Gazette that a 10% reduction “would have meant a saving to the council of €1.8m”. She added: “We lost the motion, but that €1.8m would have gone some way to contributing to helping with the housing crisis in Fingal.” This view among Labour Party councillors has been met with disdain by Cllr McGuinness who said: “The Labour Party in Dublin 15 wanted to increase the amount of property tax residents had to pay which, in my opinion, shows how out of touch Joan Burton’s party has become.” Renua’s Cllr Keith Redmond is “delighted” with

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

the 15% reduction but expressed his frustration with the Government’s lack of flexibility. He said: “I only wish we were given the flexibility by the Government to fully control our property tax so we could reduce it more.” He added: “It appears

that the Government doesn’t trust local councillors and wants to try to centrally manage the property tax of the 26 counties from the Department of Environment offices. “So much for the democratic revolution we were promised.”

12 November 2015 SWORDS Gazette 3

swords: project to develop range of upgrades for town’s centre

treetop fun Want to zip through demesne?

€9m allocated for civic, cultural work  keith bellew

FUNDING of €9m has been allocated towards the proposed Swords Civic and Cultural Centre, which includes the Swords Castle lands, as part of the Fingal 20162018 Fingal County Council Capital Programme. The overall project will include a new major central public and civic space outside Swords Castle, new library/civic centre building to sit alongside County Hall, new landscape interventions in the park and the town, and the creation of a hub or cultural quarter on North Street and Main Street. The Capital Pro-

gramme 2016-2018 provides for an investment of €3m per year for each of the three years in relation to the project. Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) paid tribute to the council for all of the work put into the castle over the past year, saying it is great to see Swords Castle open to the public through the day and events such as the recent Oktoberfest taking place within the castle grounds. He said: “It is great to see the castle – the focal point of Swords – being used more and more and this will only increase in years to come. “First of all, we had t h e ve r y e n j o y a b l e

Swords Festival last July and now the Oktoberfest and, hopefully, plans for a Swords Christmas Festival, whilst nothing has been confirmed as yet, will come to fruition. “It is great to see that great progress has been made with regards to Swords Castle in 2015, and long may it continue into 2016 and beyond,” said Cllr Butler. As well as the castle and cultural quarter, there are also many plans for Main Street . It is hoped that some of the derelict buildings – the block of buildings that includes the old barbers shop – will be knocked down in early 2016.

Ready, steady, go: Cross country runners anticipate a challenge pictured is Cathal Doyle of Santry’s Clonliffe Harriers who recently helped get the GloHealth National Cross Country championship across the line. The event, which has moved from its customary March date to November, incorporates the Juvenile Even Age Cross Country championships while also being a trial for the European Cross Country Championships in Hyeres, France on December 13. Hundreds of children are expected to take part. GloHealth chief Jim Dowdall: “GloHealth is a proud partner of Athletics Ireland and we are delighted to again sponsor the upcoming GloHealth Cross Country Championships.” Picture: David Maher / SPORTSFILE

Plans for a forest adventure area in Malahide Castle Demesne and Regional Park were proposed at last week’s Howth Malahide area committee meeting. A “treetop aerial trail course” at Malahide Demesne was unveiled at the meeting. The adventure route will see participants navigate various circuits through the forest treetops using zip lines, cargo nets, rope bridges and various other obstacles. The outdoor development is still in early planning stages but if approved will bring up to 16 jobs to the area and be an added visitor destination in the park. The developers also aim to promote the course as a healthy, physical activity for all ages.

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portmarnock Company applies to construct new Lidl, retail units and cafe

Residents concerned over Tin Church site development  emma nolan

Portmarnock residents are concerned about the proposed development on the Tin Church site in the heart of Portmarnock village. Rossdon Ltd has applied for permission to construct a Lidl supermarket, two retails

units, a cafe, two office units, as well as underground parking space. Deputy Alan Farrell (FG) has said the additional information sought by Fingal County Council in relation to the proposed development on the Tin Church site in Portmarnock sought to deal

with some of the main issues relating to the development, but still did not adequately address the concerns of local residents. They have expressed concerns over delivery times to the German giant retailer, Lidl, as delivery vehicles would have an impact on

those living in the local area. Farrell said: “I am concerned that, should planning be granted, there is simply no way to ensure the supermarket would adhere to these delivery slots. “This would be unacceptable, particularly in terms of the adverse impact it would

have on residents in St Anne’s Square, Portmarnock village as a whole, and on the road network surrounding the site.” Farrell has stated that the size of the proposed development is what makes it unsuitable for the Tin Church site: “I remain of the opinion that

the sheer size of the proposed development alone makes it unsuitable for the site. “Aand I believe that a more appropriate use for the site could be found, which would have less of an impact on residents and would be more in keeping with the character of Portmarnock village.”

€1m all-weather floodlit pitch opened in Donabate  keith bellew

A NEW full-sized, floodlit all-weather pitch costing more than €1m in Donabate was officially opened by the Mayor of Fingal, David O’ Connor (Ind). The pitch was completed a number of years ago but was damaged due to flooding and a subsequent insurance issue prevented the facility from being opened until recently. This is the latest addition to the sporting facilities in Fingal, following the official opening of the full-sized Gaelic and soccer, floodlit all-weather pitches at Bremore, Balbriggan in April.

The €1.25m funding for the project was provided by Fingal County Council. The facility will be operated on behalf of the council by Donabate and Portrane Community Centre, and will be available for rent by clubs and groups through a booking system. Donabate Community College will have full use of the pitch on weekdays up to 4.30pm. Cllr O’Connor said the facility would be a big asset to the people of Donabate, Portrane and beyond, while Fingal chief executive Paul Reid said the investment would meet the needs of community groups and sporting organisations in the area.

Part of The Fingal Festival of Fire delights onlookers watching by Swords Castle. Picture: Paul Walsh

community: 4,000 attend halloween celebrations

Thousands fired up for Swords festival  emma nolan

Crowds turned out in their thousands for the Fingal Festival of Fire and Oktoberfest in Swords Town Park. Witches, ghouls and spooky creatures were out in force to join in on the fun which ran over three days in the lead-up to the Fire Festival on Halloween night. Swords Castle was transformed into a spooktacular arena complete with a giant suspended skull to add to the Halloween atmosphere. The event was run by the Events Unit in Fingal County Coun-

cil with 98FM’s Big Red unit broadcasting live from County Hall on Swords Main Street. Oktoberfest ran all weekend with Friday and Saturday nights completely sold out. Two Time Polka and Interskalatic were on hand to provide the musical entertainment and had the packed arena dancing all night. The Festival of Fire on Halloween night was attended by over 4,000 people who gathered early in Swords Town Park for a day of family fun. Children and parents were greeted by spooky characters and the little ones made

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‘Swords Castle was transformed into a spooktacular arena complete with a giant suspended skull’ --------------------------

their way through scary tunnels while the more adventurous ventured through the “super scary spine-tingling tunnel”. The evening was finished off in style with a spectacular fireworks display.

On Sunday families availed of the afternoon’s entertainment and with an almost full arena on Sunday night people boogied away to Marvin & The Grooves. Paul Reid, chief executive of Fingal County Council, said: “All the hard work of Fingal staff over the last few months has paid off, with the huge success of Oktoberfest and the Festival of Fire. “The weekend had a fantastic variety of events for young and old alike. We look forward to providing many more events of this calibre over the coming year.”

12 November 2015 SWORDS Gazette 5

CSO Area’s figures dip to 9.3%, the lowest for six years

Fingal youth shown to buck jobless trend  emma nolan

There has been a significant drop in youth unemployment levels in north County Dublin as rates drop to the lowest in six years. Deputy Alan Farrell (FG) has said that CSO figures showing a reduction in unemployment to 9.3% is positive for the Fingal. And that it is a noteworthy improvement from the 15.1% of February 2012. Farrell said it was “particularly pleasing considering the fall in the number of people emigrating”. He continued: “While this is great news, the youth unem-

ployment rate remains far too high, and a continuation of the work of Government in promoting investment and job creation is essential to ensure youth unemployment levels continue to decrease.” Farrell also commented on the number of people under 25 on the live register in the north county where between February 2012 and September 2015, the youth unemployment level has fallen by 43.7% in the Balbriggan social welfare office, and by 47.6% in the Swords social welfare office. Cllr Keith Redmond (Renua) has criticised

the Government’s handling of youth unemployment as the national figure is currently 21.1% which he states is “no accident”. While he and Farrell agree the rate is too high, he said that Irish youth “receive only €100 per week, which on a 40-hour week, is the equivalent of €2.50 per hour”. ‘Not allowed’

Cllr Redmond also condemned the Government’s minimum wage increase to €9.15 per hour, stressing that it has backfired for under 23s who are “not allowed to leave the dole unless

they can find a job paying €8.65 per hour, thus condemning more young people to stay on the dole.” He tells Gazette: “The minimum wage should be abolished for under 23s and they should be free to take jobs that allow them to get their foot on the work ladder where they can get vital experience and skills for future employers.” This view is shared by Cllr David McGuinness (Ind) who said: “He [Farrell] should raise this news with his colleagues at the next Fine Gael parliamentary-party meeting and tell them to stop victimising unemployed

Deputy Alan Farrell with Fine Gale party colleague and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton

youths and restore their social welfare payments to humane levels.” While the national rate remains an issue, over 125,000 jobs have been created since the Action Plan forJobs was launched in February 2012, accord-

ing to Deputy Farrell, who said: “While the current unemployment figures show that we are making good progress, it is clear that much remains to be done. “Fine Gael has a plan to finish the job we start-

ed, by strengthening our economic recovery and further promoting job creation, which will generate the resources to invest in services that people in the north county, and across the countr y, depend upon.”

6 SWORDS Gazette 12 November 2015

don’sdublin

position B of I manager chamber’s choice malahide: festive village

A child prodigy who grew up to be even more prodigious THE word genius is defined as “a person who displays exceptional intellectual ability, creativity or originality associated with the achievement of new advances in a domain of knowledge” – a definition that most definitely applies to William Rowan Hamilton. The fourth of nine children, Hamilton was born on August 4, 1805 to Archibald Hamilton, a solicitor, and his wife Sarah and lived at 38 Dominick Street, Dublin. When he was three he was sent to live with his uncle, James Hamilton, a teacher and linguist who ran a school in Trim, County Meath. He showed exceptional talent for languages from an early age. By age 13 he had acquired the same number of languages, including ancient Latin and Greek, most modern European languages and Persian, Arabic and Sanskrit. Late in life he often relaxed by reading books in Persian or Arabic! When he was eight he lost a mental arithmetic contest with American prodigy Zerah Colburn who was touring Europe and astounding audiences with his ability. After his loss Hamilton devoted his time to mathematics and less to language study. The year before he entered university he spotted an error in Laplace’s Mechanique Celeste, and this brought him to the attention of John Brinkley, the Royal Astronomer of Ireland. He said of Hamilton: “This young man, I do not say will be, but is, the first mathematician of his age.” He entered Trinity College at 18 and studied mathematics and classics gaining an unprecedented “optime” in both. Soon afterwards, in 1827, he was appointed, while still an undergraduate, Professor of Astronomy at Trinity College. He lived at Dunsink Observatory. On October 16, 1843 while walking along the Royal Canal with his wife Helen, the existence of quaternions took shape in his mind. He etched the equation on Broome Bridge and the famous event is celebrated each year with a walk from the observatory to the site.

Don Cameron

www.donsdublin.wordpress.com

William Rowan Hamilton: a polyglot at age 13 in later years Hamilton relaxed by reading books in Persian or Arabic

Locals ‘upset’ about plans  keith bellew

Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce president Luke Moriarty and newly-appointed chief executive Sean Corrigan. Picture: Kevin McFeely

New chief tasked to realise vision for town  emma nolan

Sean Corrigan was last week announced as the new chief executive of Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce following a ground-breaking policy document from the Balbriggan chamber which outlines a vision for the development of the town over the next five years. The announcement was strongly welcomed by chamber president and local businessman Luke Moriarty who said: “Sean Corrigan brings to this role a wealth of local knowledge, and business and community development experience.” The former Bank of Ireland Balbriggan manager was appointed to the role following publications of the new strategy document. It envisages Balbriggan as a soughtafter location in which to live, work, and do business. The plan out-

lines key objectives that the chamber will pursue to enhance the town’s appeal for residents, visitors, business, and investors. “The appointment of a full-time executive has long been considered central to the chamber’s work in developing our town, and realising its potential for everyone,” Moriarty said. A graduate of Dublin City University and the Irish Management Institute, Corrigan has been actively involved in the Balbriggan business and social community for over 20 years. He was instrumental in establishing Balbriggan’s successful Fumbally Exchange coworking hub in 2012, as well as, most recently, the Balbriggan Men’s Shed in 2015. Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce has the potential to drive growth and prosperity for every-

one, and to improve quality of life in Balbriggan. Commenting on the new policy document, Sean Corrigan said it was “an honour and a privilege to be asked to work on the strategic plan,” he continued: “The key areas of economic development, tourism, planning, and infrastructure, as well as education, sports and recreation are earmarked as drivers of Balbriggan’s future prosperity and development.” Working together

The newly-appointed chief executive explained that working together with the State bodies would change Balbriggan for the better. And he expressed his delight at receiving the opportunity to take on the steering role. Moriarty outlined key achievements of Balbriggan Chamber that would be built on in the com-

ing five-year plan. These include regular liaison with the local authority and the IDA, and marketing the town’s new Creative Quarter, as well as the area’s infrastructure, connectivity, and land availability, with a view to attracting inward investment. There will be continued support from the business community for the excellent local educational establishments, as well as ongoing development of sports and recreation facilities for young and old and a focus on promoting the area’s tourism potential. Moriarty concluded: “Coming out of recession, there is a renewed vigour to work towards the chamber’s vision of Balbriggan 2020, as a town full of opportunity and diversity, where citizens and businesses thrive, and visitors are welcomed.”

A CHRISTMAS village featuring an ice rink, Santa Village, food stalls and festive carousels will open on Friday, November 20 at the Marina Green in Malahide and run until December 23. Event organisers are engaging with a number of community organisations with special deals and discounts to the event. Local traders and businesses are being offered first refusal on the stalls. Cllr Anthony Lavin (FG) said that the Christmas village would cut off access to the park. Some residents who use the park have expressed their concerns about this as construction is already well under way. They were not aware of the impact it would have on the green.

‘Anxiety’ He said: “There probably wasn’t a lot of consultation done with the residents of the area so they were caught offside, and are pretty upset with some of what’s been proposed. It’s creating a certain amount of anxiety locally.” He added that he would welcome the event as long as the needs and concerns of the community were dealt with. A council spokesperson said a full memorandum of understanding was being finalised which would address technical issues such as noise pollution, curfew, environmental issues, various risk assessments and event management plans.

12 November 2015 SWORDS Gazette 7

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health 3,000 children are on waiting lists to access services

Report reveals disturbing facts on suicide statistics

Children’s Rights Alliance statistics show Ireland has highest level of suicide among women and girls, the second highest level of male suicide in the EU and high levels of homophobic bullying  keith bellew kbellew@dublingazette.com

A recently published report by the Children’s Rights Alliance found that Ireland had the highest rate of female youth suicides and the second highest rate of male youth suicides in the EU

between 2009 and 2011. The report also found that one-third of young LGBT people (under the age of 25) have “seriously thought about ending their lives”; at least 18% have attempted suicide; and 27% of those interviewed had self harmed. Research also found

high levels of homophobic bullying with 34% of those interviewed being subjected to homophobic comments by their teachers. The report also found that as of May this year, more than 3,000 children were on waiting lists to access mental health

services throughout the country. Of these, more than 1,700 were on waiting lists for more than three months and 383 had been on waiting lists for more than a year. This amounts to a referral increase of 49% between June 2014 and May 2015. The report urges the State to take steps to end the practice of placing children in adult mental health facilities. It has emerged that 33% of children admitted to mental health facilities in 2014 were “inappropriately admitted to adult inpatient units”. In addition, teenage suicide, particularly among males is a concern outlined in the report. It also discovered an apparent link between the high suicide rate of young males and underage substance abuse. Meanwhile, it warned that healthcare in Ireland is undermined by “an entrenched two-tier system” with “indications of a poorer health status among children from less well-off areas”. The report stated: “Those on low incomes who are reliant on the public health system may have to wait for extended periods for tests and procedures, while those who can afford to purchase private health insurance, can receive a much faster service through the private system.” Marguerite Kiely, clinical manager for child and adolescent services at Pieta House, says the report’s findings are reflected by the experience of Pieta House staff. “LGBT young people are more at risk of selfharm and suicide. We’ve seen an increase in girls, in particular, present-

The report states that those reliant on the public health system may have to wait for medical treatment, while those with private health insurance can receive a much faster service through the private system.

ing with sexual identity issues. We would urge families, friends and peers to be particularly mindful that words can hurt and that negative or offhand comments can have a significant impact on a young LGBT person’s life.”

Discrimination The former spokesperson for LGBT Noise, Max Krzyzanowski, who stepped down from his position following the marriage referendum but remains an advocate of LGBT rights, says the “euphoria” of the Yes vote may have caused people to forget that discrimination is still an issue. Regarding the finding that 34% of students had been subjected to homophobic comments from

their teachers, he says: “The majority clearly feels that LGBT people are equal and should be treated equally, but there is the case that 738, 000 people voted No. “Many of them will have voted no because they don’t see LGBT people equally. In that three quarters of a million people are teachers, coaches, bosses, parents and when they give free reign to their homophobia it can be incredibly damaging to the people in their care and when they are young, impressionable people it can be even more damaging.” He says these statistics are timely because the fact that discrimination still exists could be lost in the celebratory mood of the recent marriage refer-

endum milestone. “LGBT people are suffering and they will continue to suffer for some time. “What I would say about the referendum is that it does somewhat change the dynamic for conversation because people who have a dislike or disapproval of LGBT people were always able to speak and operate under the assumption that they were in the majority, and they can no longer do that.” He added that discrimination against LGBT people would take some time to unravel, but should gradually improve. For more information about help services for mental health visit: www. pieta.ie

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10 SWORDS Gazette 12 November 2015

gazetteGALLERY

Mukesh Saini with his daughter Anita

Beibhinn and Caoilfhionn Gillespie show they can brew up a bewitching style to flaunt at the Pavilions Shopping Centre Halloween party, which was held recently to celebrate the holiday. Pictures: Stephen Fleming Aleem and Yasmeen Aamir

Bewitching costumes set the party rocking

Fintin and Alex Merriman with Laura Gardner

Amelia McGreal

Blathnaid Connolly and Clara Cassidy

Leah Gilmartin and Noah Duffey

12 November 2015 SWORDS Gazette 11

Sisters Toks and Gbemi Adeyemo

Kathleen and Catherine Swords from... Swords!

Ciaran McKenna and Ciara Williams with the Name It company car. Pictures: Rose Comiskey

bag a bargain: Name it rolls up with fanfare

Carlos, Charlie and Jenny Hartwick

Tara Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien and Emma Murphy

MPROVED fashion options arrived at he Pavilions Shopping Centre in Swords recently with the grand opening of the Name It store. The occasion was celebrated with good bags and magic tricks as well as a

25% discount on kids clothing for the opening. With Christmas just around the corner, Name It arrived just in time to give parents and others looking for something special for the little ones this season.

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12 November 2015 Gazette 13

asdfsdaf P27 the big interview P16

christmas presents P15

dublinlife Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week

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Gazette

diary P14

Pets can you give amber a new, loving home?

Cormac Breslin, aka CC Brez, playing support for Cry Monster Cry at the Button Factory recently. Picture: Dara Munnis

a day in the life: ‘After breakfast I go straight into my writing’

Easy on Sunday morning  ian begley

FORMER guitarist of Republic of Loose, Cormac Breslin aka CC Brez is going solo and is as busy as ever writing music and playing gigs around the country. This week the Gazette caught up with CC Brez to catch a glimpse of a typical day in his life. “I get up roughly between 10am and 11am. I wouldn’t call myself an early riser, but because I perform Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights there isn’t a real need for me to be up before 10am on those days. “When you’re working late nights you really build up an appetite and

feel like getting something semi-decent into you so my breakfast would usually consist of fruit, porridge, coffee and maybe a few eggs. “My average working day would be between 10 to 12 hours. “My band rehearsals generally last around four or five hours, but when I’m out doing a gig I would leave my house around 5pm and not get back until around 5am the following day. “With most gigs we have to do sound checks and would need to be at the particular venue three or four hours before the doors open. “As soon as I finish my breakfast I get straight into my writing, which I do every single day.

“It’s a routine that I’ve got myself into for about 10 years and if I ever miss a day and don’t do it then it would really bug me. “During the mid-week I would be in my home studio writing music for myself or somebody else. “If I was rehearsing with my band I’d do it in town. “But if I’m writing or recording by myself I prefer to do it at home where it’s nice and quiet.” Brez, who recently released his new single/music video, When It Feels Good, added that on Sundays he prefers to take time off from his busy music life and just relax. “Sunday is my day off. I actually

prefer doing nothing, it’s the one day I have to myself and I like to just chill out or go for a pint with my friends. “Most musicians I know tend to work harder than they should because since they’re self-employed they feel the added pressure on whether they’re doing enough. “When you only have yourself to motivate yourself I tend to get into a circle of working too hard. “Whenever I’m out gigging I wouldn’t get to bed until about 5am, but during the mid-week I would hit the hay a lot earlier.” Follow CC Brez on Facebook – www. facebook.com/ccbrez – for all his latest music and performance dates.

The Dublin Gazette Newspaper Group has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week this week is Amber, a stunning six-year-old, female pitbull cross who was returned after five years due to a change in her family’s circumstances. She is a really sweet, peoplefocused lady and would be suited to a home with slightly older children where she will have company. She is quite the foodie so will respond well to training, if treats are involved! If you think you could offer Amber a home, please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. Don’t forget that you can also support Dogs Trust by checking out their online shop www.dogstrustshop. ie

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Gazette

dublinlife Night out to help people get home THE ninth Peter McVerr y Tr ust Gala Ball will be held on Saturday November 14 in Clontarf Castle with all proceeds raised going directly to Peter McVerry Trust services. The charity, which works to provide housing for homeless people, deal with drugs misuse and fight social disadvantage, needs to raise funds to continue its work. T he event will be

hosted by RTE’s Miriam O’Callaghan and will feature auctions and raffles. Pat Doyle, chief executive of the trust, said: “Ever y year we have enjoyed a fabulous night’s food and entertainment, and raised vitally important funds for our work through ticket sales, auctions and raffles. “This event comes at very difficult time in the fight against home-

lessness and we hope as many people as possible will join us to raise funds to tackle the current emergency.” For more information or to buy tickets, which cost €150 call 01 8230776.

Gaiety programme for young actors THE Gaiety School of Acting is hosting a daylong Young Gaiety masterclass for students, existing and new, to

get an authentic insight into full-time training and what working as an actor entails. The course on November 15, runs from 10am to 5pm and is designed for young people aged 13 to 19 years. It will i n cl u d e s e s s i o n s i n career skills in addition to workshops similiar to classes taught on the two-year full-time acting programme. This day would be particularly helpful for any transition year or Leaving Cert students fast approaching decision time. Colin Farrell, Poldark’s Aidan Turner, Penny Dreadful’s Sarah Greene, Deirdre O’Kane and PJ Gallagher are among those who learned at least some of their trade at the theatre. The masterclass costs €60 and takes place in the Gaiety School of Acting in Temple Bar. To book go to www.gaietyschool.com or call 01-6799277.

Celebrate books with dublin town THE Dublin Book Festival takes place in and around the Smock Alley Theatre in Temple Bar from November 12 to 15. Other venues include the Gutter Bookshop, the Irish Writers Centre, Fighting Words, the Irish Georgian Society, the National Library of Ireland and Dublin City Public Libraries. The festival has a very varied programme and most events are free, so it promises to be fun and

diary

Gaiety Theatre acting students in class with director Patrick Sutton

affordable for everyone. It is one of Dublin’s largest book festivals and celebrates Irish published authors and Irish publishing, across the whole range of genres, from comedy and literary fiction, business, politics and children’s, to poetry and Irish language events. For more information on the festival see www. dublintown.ie

play tells story of Wilde’s lovers A NEW play exploring the story of Oscar Wilde’s lovers opens on November 16 at the Sean O’Casey Theatre. Using historical testimony, Wretched Little Brat written by Brian Merriman reveals the characters behind a story that scandalised a sexually hypocritical Victorian nation and went on to adversely influence law, morality and the fight for LGBT equality to this day. This frank exploration challenges the “gay stereotypes” embedded in Wilde’s public scandals as having serious consequences for the generations of LGBT people who pursued equality in the decades that fol-

lowed. Starring Sean Doyle as Bosie, the play episodically explores key elements in a society struggling to contain a view of its own invented morality.

Wretched Little Brat runs at the Sean O’Casey Theatre, St Mary’s Road, East Wall, at 7.30pm from November 16-21. Tickets cost €13, €15 and €18 and are available at www.gaytheatre.ie

12 November 2015 Gazette 15

seasonal search: get the gift selection spot-on

Solving the dilemma of Christmas presents! David Fitzsimons is chief executive of Retail Excellence Ireland, the country’s largest retail industry body, representing over 1,100 progressive retailers operating over 13,000 stores in Ireland. He introduces Gazette readers to the recently launched FromMe2You gift card. N ov e m be r a n d December alone can account for up to 50% of a retailer’s annual business, with the seasonal search for the per fect gif ts, a new look for the home, new clothes for the family, and all the goodies that go into making a great Christmas. January too is crazy busy in the retail sector, partly due to the major sales attracting bargain hunters, but largely on account of the number of returns. T hose unwanted Christmas gifts are as regular as turkey dinners, and more common than you think. T he clothes that didn’t fit, or just didn’t suit, the toys there were two of (silly Santa!), the smoothie maker we already had four of, and the cosmetics and accessories deemed simply lame by our unimpressed teenagers!

Certainly Retail E xc e l l e n c e I r e l a n d members don’t mind exchanges and returns, and will gladly facilitate them by providing gift receipts, and swapping sizes. But wouldn’t it be great to get the gift selection spot-on this year, to give choice and flexibility, to offer something that suits everyone, even if it is your Kris Kindle pickout from the accounts department, who you barely know! Here’s some good advice, FromMe2You! FromMe2You is the new multi-store Irish gift card, launched this week by Retail Excellence Ireland. From toys to gourmet goodies, furniture to fashion, and beauty to electronics, FromMe2You is welcome in Ireland’s favourite stores, right across the country, so there is lit-

erally something for everyone, and for all occasions. And, you avoid that brief look of disappointment that flashes over the face when Dad opens his third pair of slippers, and your 12-year-old niece tells you that One Direction is “so last decade”! Available through Topaz forecourt stores countrywide, and online at www.FromMe2You. ie, FromMe2You gift cards can be bought in any denomination from €15 up, solving the complete gifting dilemma in one go, with no hassle or brain-wrecking decisions involved at all. Choose choice! T he FromMe2You card is welcomed by thousands of retailers, large and small, including fast food restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores, as well as prestige brands like Brown Thomas, Louis Copeland and Harvey Nichols. Retailers that gene r a l l y d o n ’t a c c e p t multi-store cards also welcome the new Irish gift solution, including

A treat for Vivaldi fans  aisling kennedy

IF you fancy a night of culture this week then check out the Four Seasons by Candlelight at the National Concert Hall. The Four Seasons has become one of the most celebrated pieces of classical music ever written and remains hugely popular today. The show will present a beautiful programme of 18th century classics performed in a candle-lit style setting with the Mozart Festival Orchestra, the

members of which will be dressed in full orchestral costume of the period. Some of the music on the night will include Mozart, Clarke, Pachelbel, Bach, Handel and, of course ,Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons. The concert will take place at the National Concert Hall this Sunday ,November 15, at 3.15pm. Tickets range in price from €25 to €46 and there are concessions available for the performance. For more information or to book tickets log onto www.nch.ie

Homestore & More, Tiger Stores, Supermacs, Avoca, and CompuB. It’s easy to give the gift of choice this Christmas, and, with no expiry date, the FromMe2You gift card value can be used at any time, giving total flexibility and choice. It may be the thought that counts, but think about this – everyone is happy, the Christmas gift list get ticked-off in super fast time, and there is all the more shopping time to go in search of the perfect gift, for that most special person in your life – yourself! H a p py C h r i s t m a s everyone!

David Fitzsimons: promoting the FromMe2You new multi-store Irish gift card

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16 Gazette 12 November 2015

dublinlife

the big interview

new lease of life: celebrity maitre d’ on life after organ transplant

Two heart attacks later, Healy takes more care  Ian Begley ibegley@dublingazette.com

After undergoing a life-saving heart transplant in 2012, celebrity maitre d’ John Healy says he has found a new lease of life and is now taking much-needed care of his physical health and wellbeing. During this week’s Big Interview, Healy talked about the pressures he was under during the spending-crazed years of the Celtic Tiger and how being over-worked ultimately led to his decline in health. “During 2001 to 2008 I was running the restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel. The pinnacle of society was coming through the front doors. You had leaders of industries, bankers, chief executives and celebrities who were all spending an awful lot of money there. “The reputation of the food and service was on my shoulders and I also had to act as the face of the restaurant. When someone is dropping €500 to €1,000 they expect a certain amount of qual-

ity being delivered so I had to greet everyone and make sure they had a nice evening. The amount of business and money that restaurant was bringing in during those years was insane and relentless. “ My l i f e s t y l e w a s completely unbalanced and at the time I didn’t realise that I was doing a lot of damage to myself. My diet was shocking and my relaxation techniques were non-existent. I also smoked way too much and drank an excessive amount of coffee. “I had no outlet for stress and I’m sure that the combination between pushing myself too hard and my unhealthy lifestyle led to my two heart attacks in 2007 and 2009.” H ealy added that looking back now he feels very lucky to have experienced his illness because it gave him the opportunity to reassess his life. Settling in nicely as general manager of the plush Dublin restaurant Suesey Street and also starting again as maitre d’ in TV3’s The Restau-

rant, Healy says that since his transplant he has felt like a new man. “During the run-up to my transplant I went through an awful lot of mental and spiritual conditioning and reevaluated everything. I took responsibility for my illness and did everything I could to make myself better. “I now feel like a new man. My colleagues tell me that even though I’m 50 I certainly don’t look it or even act like my age. My transplant enlightened me completely as a person and has given me a new lease of life. “Now when I’m working I know not to put too much pressure on myself or drive myself into the ground. I was very hard on myself and very driven before my heart attacks and now even though I’m still passionate about what I do I’m a lot easier on myself. “The new restaurant is fantastic. It’s a lot more relaxed here and the vibe is certainly more informal than the previous restaurants I’ve worked in.”

John Healy of Suesey Street: “I had no outlet for stress and I’m sure that the combination between pushing myself too hard and my unhealthy lifestyle led to my two heart attacks in 2007 and 2009.” Picture: Brian Mcevoy

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‘I had no outlet for stress and I’m sure that the combination between pushing myself too hard and my unhealthy lifestyle led to my two heart attacks in 2007 and 2009’

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To relax, Healy says that yoga now plays a big part in his life to help him to unwind from his day-to -day life. “I’ve just come back from a yoga retreat on the Cliffs of Moher with my friends, which I found to be a very physical and spiritual

experience. I find yoga to be really therapeutic and it allows me to switch off and be at one with myself. “I haven’t changed my diet since my operation, but do everything in moderation. If I want to have a biscuit I will have one and not the entire packet and if I want a cup of cof-

fee I will have one and not nine of them. “I take my medication each day now and am very much aware of my body and mind. I believe that when you become aware of your life you live it better.” Talking about the new season of The Restaurant, filmed in Marco Pierre White Courtyard Bar & Grill in Donnybrook, Healy says he is very excited about when it airs in January. “We filmed in August and there were about nine cameras that ran non-stop throughout the whole evening with

all of the footage edited down for each show. “It was quite fun because it really captures how a restaurant runs and the cameras don’t miss a thing. “After several glass of wine people forget they’re being filmed and start talking about literally anything and everything. “Everything you see is very real and not staged whatsoever.” To find out more about Suesey Street or to book a reservation visit www.sueseystreet. ie or call 01-6694600.

12 November 2015 Gazette 17

asdfsdaf P27 travel P24

cinema P22

OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week

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food P18

the Gaiety Theatre: Little Red Riding Hood, it’s a panto not to be missed

Red alert – big, bad wolf is in town  Aisling Kennedy

Lit tle Red Riding Hood is the Christmas pantomime at the Olympia Theatre this year and with the big bad wolf, a kick-boxing granny and of course Little Red Riding Hood, it’s a panto not to be missed. Joe Conlon, who plays The Notorious Granny McGregor, spoke to The Gazette and told us to expect fun, laughter, and some kickboxing scenes in this year’s panto. “I’ve been playing the dame in the Olympia for the past six years now and it’s a nice feeling

to be back here again. The Christmas panto is a lovely family tradition and we find that families are coming back year-inyear out with their grandparents, grandchildren, parents and kids. They come in their droves and it’s great.” Conlon explained that in his role as The Notorious Granny McGregor he takes inspiration from Ireland’s famous kickboxer Conor McGregor and tackles the big bad wolf in an attempt to protect his granddaughter when she finds herself lost in the forest. “I meet her in the

woods and we end up taking different paths. Along the way we meet various characters who are all very magical. They’re all from bedtime and Disney time stories and it’s then that we bump into the wolf. I bump into the wolf first and we have a bit of shindig and my boxing prowess, being part of the McGregor family, comes in very handy. “I think that’s what is great about this year’s panto. Our director, Darren Crosby, has tried to make it different to last year’s panto which was Peter Pan. He has brought the panto forward into

Little Red Riding Hood aka Hayley-Jo Murphy and The Big Bad Wolf aka Nicholas Grennell

the present time. All of the costumes are made here in the Gaiety too by Pauline McCaul and she has designed and made all of these beautiful ani-

mal costumes. They’re phenomenal and have amazing colours which the kids will love.” Conlon is very aware that the panto means a

lot to his audience and he says that he particularly loves to see the smiles on the children’s faces in the audience when he’s on stage. “That’s the thing with kids, you have to keep the pace going so that they remain focused on it the whole time. Kids do have less attention span than adults so I love to see them really engrossed in the show. That’s the most rewarding part.” Conlon paid tribute to the whole cast including the wardrobe department, hair and make-up, the crew and the actors and actresses.

“ T h e r e ’s b e t we e n 50-60 people involved so it’s a huge production and everyone is great and really gets involved. Hayley Jo Murphy is the young actress who plays Little Red Riding Hood and both her and Shane M c D a i d w h o p l ay s Woodie the Woodsman have a lovely connection with the audience. The audience will love the show this year.” Little Red R iding Hood will run from November 29 to January 10, 2016 and tickets are available to buy on www. gaietytheatre.ie or www. ticketmaster.ie

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18 Gazette 12 November 2015

OUT&ABOUT

FOOD&DRINK

RECIPECORNER

Enjoy Butler’s Pantry Christmas pudding or (below) Scrumdiddly Ice Cream this festive shopping season

Pop into the pantry for scrummy nibbles LOOKING for a cool break during your Christmas shopping this year? Scrumdiddly’s Ice Cream opened a seasonal Christmas pop-up store when the Christmas windows were revealed on Henry Street on November 2, and will stay open until Christmas Eve. Home of the Scrummy Tub, Scrumdiddly’s has been in business since 2012. It has one simple aim and that is to make going for an ice cream an experience to be savoured and remembered. With queues outside the Donabate and Dun Laoghaire shops it seems people think it is achieving its aim. There are 2,400 possible combinations of Scrummy Tubs, as well as unique specials with secret homemade melted sauces, like the Scrummy Mess, the Scrumnana Boat or Scrumnoffee. The Butler’s Pantry is also getting ready for its pop up debut on Henry Street, this time at Arnotts. It will open on November 19 on the first floor of the iconic department store and will stock a large range of range of seasonal Christmas goodies, including its Christmas puddings, mince pies, chutney and a two-tiered Christmas cake. The Christmas pop-up shop will give Arnotts shoppers the opportunity to buy for their own Christmas pantry as well as providing a stylish range of hampers, available to collect in-store or delivery nationwide. There is a large selection of Christmas hampers to suit most budgets, starting at €50 and going right up to €250; all are beautifully presented in an antique willow wicker basket. Jacquie Marsh, managing-director of The Butler’s Pantry, is delighted with the opportunity to share the experience with a new range of customers as well as those who visit the stores around Dublin. “ There are no shor tcuts when it comes to making food that tastes as good as ours. We make all our food by hand, in small batches at our kitchens in Bray, just the way you would at home”.

DYLAN HOTEL (Eastmoreland Place, Dublin 4) Dylan’s Christmas Naughty or Nice afternoon teas can be enjoyed from November 28 until January 6 from 12 noon until 5pm every day €40

Take5  pearl phelan

The Merrion Hotel (Upper Merrion Street, Dublin 2) Art Tea is served from 3pm to 6pm Monday to Thursday, and is served at 2pm and 4.30pm Friday to Sunday. Tea for two is €78

Some say tea tastes best served in a dainty teacup, enjoyed in salubrious surroundings. Others say that a little bit of what you fancy will do you no harm. The Gazette has gathered up our top five takes on afternoon tea in the capital so that you can decide for yourself. Additional bubbles are optional! Whether you are the arty type, prone to indulging in naughty festive treats, or a blokey-bloke, we’ve got you covered. Note that afternoon tea sittings tend to book up quickly so it’s best to reserve your place in advance.

The Westbury (Grafton Street, Dublin 2) The Westbury’s Festive Afternoon Tea is €45 per person, and €55 per person with a glass of champagne from November 10 until the January 4.

The Morrison (Ormond Quay Lower, Dublin 1) The Gentlemen’s Tea is served with a pint of Wicklow Wolf beer €25

The Shelbourne (27 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2) The Shelbourne new Afternoon Tea with Tea Butler service costs €39.95 per person without bubbly or €53.95 with a glass of champagne, with a children’s afternoon tea available for €19.95, and is accompanied by a live classical pianist Wednesday through to Sunday.

12 November 2015 Gazette 19

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20 Gazette 12 November 2015

OUT&ABOUT

Beauty news

 aisling Kennedy

What? Personalised facial Where? Ever Young Beauty Salon, 64a George’s St Upper, Dun Laoghaire How much? €135 for 1 hour 40 minutes About the salon Owner Iris Tighe opened Ever Young Beauty Salon six months ago in Dun Laoghaire, having worked in the beauty industry for more than 18 years. She was the first beautician in Ireland to be qualified to perform semipermanent make-up procedures, including stroke-by-stroke eyebrow embroidery, eyeliner and lip liner.

Contact See www.everyoung.ie, or phone 01 230 2745.

YSL Pinceau Lumiere divine €65

Clarins Pretty day 5-Colour Eyeshadow Palette 01 €38

Result I thoroughly enjoyed my facial with Iris. I must admit, I was apprehensive when I first saw the Bio Therapeutic machine, but it does not hurt at all and it is extremely beneficial for your skin. This facial really was one of the best facials I have ever had, in terms of how it left my skin. It has been over a week now since the facial, and my skin is still very clear and with a noticeable amount of reduced pores and skin blemishes. My make-up now glides on a lot easier, and some fine lines have reduced slightly around my eyes. Highly recommended by The Gazette.

Mac Colour-drenched pigment No Taboos £18 (c. €25)

Xmas Vernis 8.50 1 ome Lanc Midnight € Rouge

What’s involved? As my facial was tailored to my particular skin type, Iris made sure to tailor the treatment for combination skin. She started by using what she called the Bio Therapeutic machine, which uses a micro current to stimulate the skin. This machine helped to deep cleanse my skin by closing and re-opening the pores on my face; it is also great for smoothing out wrinkles, scars and blemishes. It also helped to tighten the muscles on my face and firm up my skin a lot more, and it helps to promote lymphatic drainage. This part of the treatment took between 40 to 50 minutes. After she had finished, Iris then placed an elastane soft mask on my face for about 15 minutes. This was to help renew the cells in my skin. Lastly, she gave my face and head a massage, and advised me on the skin care I should use on a more regular basis.

Giorgio Armani Maestro powder brush €55

Staying ever young in Dun Laoghaire Salon

12 November 2015 GAZETTE 21

Giorgio Armani Ecstasy Laquer 601 €31.50

Urban D shadow ecay Vice eye 20 pale tte €46 .09

Urban Decay Naked Illuminated bronzer €24.50

Autumn COLOURS  MIMI MURRAY

I tend to wear “more of a face” come autumn/winter. Summer sun-kissed skin looks great with just a slick of mascara and a touch of lippy, but come winter, pale face/blotchy skin is not a great look, so layering it on thick, or thicker, tends to be my mantra in November and December. This leads us in to Christmas and “party face”, when a dramatic eye or a redder-than-red lip is what’s required. So, when it comes to wearing make-up in winter,

the rule of thumb is: go slightly heavier. However, whatever you do, avoid drag queen territory. Remember that scene in Friends when Ross applies Rachel’s make-up, and when she finally looks in the mirror she says: “I’ll just sit next to the transvestite in purchasing”? That’s what not to do! It’s okay to go for a smoky eye or a dramatic lip, but never the two combined.

Mac Magic of the Night Evening Rendevouz lipstick £17 (c. €24)

Clarins Essentials Eyeshadow Palette €43

GAZETTE

STYLE

It’s all about fashion, music and beauty at Night at The Pavilions FOR one night only in Swords, Night at The Pavilions will be held on November 12 from 6pm to 10pm. This will be an evening of fashion, beauty, food and music and, best of all, there will be lots of discounts on offer for this one night only. The majority of the centre’s stores are taking part in this event, so if you looking for a perfect outfit or Christmas gift, it’s a good time to go. Fashion shows will be held on the hour, while Night At Pavilions will showcase some of the top brands including River Island, H&M, Zara, Mango and Next. The very glamorous Glenda Gilson (inset) will be there to open the shows. Xpose magazine scouts will be roaming the shopping centre on the look-out for the best-dressed lady, and there will be a €100 Swords Pavilions gift card up for grabs. Music will be provided by Carl Mulvey while the centre will also have music from the Dublin Choral Foundation. The foundation was set up almost two decades ago to promote the development of choirs of excellence, and to provide a musical education for children previously only available in the cathedral choral tradition. They will be preforming some favourite Christmas carols on the night, making this not to be missed.

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22 Gazette 12 November 2015

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

ReelReviews

spectre

Hits a few Bond marks DOUBLE-oh seven returns for his latest adventure in Spectre (Cert 12A, 148 mins). Daniel Craig takes his fourth outing as the iconic gentleman spy with an edge, which sees Bond caught up in (yet another) globe-trotting conspiracy. The latest hightech, big-budget Bond tale isn’t short on spectacle, but its reliance on viewer familiarity with the recent films falls flat in places.

Near-destitute but wily Miss Shepherd (Maggie Smith) and playwright Alan Bennett (Alex Jennings) become unlikely frenemies for many years at his house’s driveway

brooklyn

Tale resonates well AT LAST – an Oirish film that isn’t inherently hokey and awful. Brooklyn (Cert 12A, 112 mins) sees Saoirse Ronan caught between two worlds as a young Irish emigrant in the 1950s. Sibling assistance sees her start over in the eponymous New York neighbourhood, and romance blossoms. However, complications ensue, with new life choices pulling her heart home ... It’s a strong, engaging film.

burnt

Stinks more than a bit THIS half-baked drama sees hunk du jour Bradley Cooper providing hot stuff in the kitchen. However, Burnt (Cert 15A, 101 mins) isn’t a very tempting offering, with Cooper’s character serving up one cliche after another. Wealthy bad boy chef trying to turn his life around and be the best with his mustsucceed new restaurant, learning life lessons along the way? Check and pass.

The lady in the van: ‘true-ish’ clash of characters drives a great film

Entertaining eccentricity BASED on “mostly true” events, The Lady in The Van (Cert 12A, 104 mins) is the latest movie from the pen of accomplished playwright and English national treasure Alan Bennett. Starring the inimitable Maggie Smith as Miss Shepherd – the lady in question – the film covers a period of Bennett’s life in the late 1970s when he moved to London. Filmed on location at the house where Bennett resided, the plot is immediately and effortlessly engrossing: Bennett allows an elderly, itinerant woman who lives in the back of her van (inset, right) to park her clappedout vehicle in his driveway as an act of charity in order for her to secure some welfare benefits. He expects the stay to last for a couple of weeks, but to the chagrin of Ben-

 Dave phillips

nett and his neighbours, she ends up staying for more than 15 years. Opening with Bennett (Alex Jennings) giving a florid description of Miss Shepherd’s particular odour (amongst other things: a blend of wet wool, raw onions, and lavender talc), we are initially compelled to watch out of a sheer, grotesque fascination. The laboured relationship between the pair is captivating – with the curmudgeonly Miss Shepherd knowing full well how to milk every drop of human kindness from the too-timid Bennett,

who for his part can never quite muster the courage to ask her to leave. It quickly becomes clear that deeper motives and desires are being fulfilled beneath the surface. With Bennett, we see a struggle in finding his place in the world, understanding his sexuality and managing his creative success. Bennett is a paradox – perennially apologetic, he soft-foots through life despite a deep inner desire to stomp, and he finds himself caring for a stranger, while unable to care for his declining mother. There is a touch of magic realism in the telling of The Lady in the Van, with Jennings often appearing on screen twice in the same shot. There’s Bennett the writer, perched omnisciently in a chair by the window, shaking his head

and gently goading the Bennett who is at an utter loss with how to get Miss Shepherd out of the habit of using the downstairs toilet. The back and forth between these two personas is littered with Bennett’s characteristically wry and acerbic insights into human nature. W hile Jennings – whose fame as an actor on stage far surpasses his work in cinema – is perfectly cast in this role and does an immense job, it is hard not to focus on the remarkable performance

of Smith. No stranger to the role, she has played Miss Shepherd in both a radio dramatisation and a stage production of The Lady in the Van. On screen, she is simply irrepressible. Underpinning the delightful obstinacy that makes Miss Shepherd such a captivating character is a potent sense of tragic fragility, and Smith is able to skilfully simultaneously embody both qualities. This teeters high in a career filled with amazing performances. Even allowing for an

ending that felt far toosyrupy for such an emotionally resonant second act, The Lady in the Van is a remarkable piece of film. It is a treat that unfolds tentatively, deepening as it goes; a heartfelt and whimsical journey back into a parochial past where the concept of community possessed a very different sense of meaning. Bolstered by the inherent comedy of the oddcouple situation that Bennett found himself in, there is room to explore the extraordinarily real relationship between two people from different generations, who are both split between their idealised and actual selves, and who both exist uncomfortably on the peripheries of society.

Verdict: 8/10

12 November 2015 Gazette 23

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24 Gazette 12 November 2015

OUT&ABOUT

fast

TRAVEL NEWS

Get your New Year off to a warm sunny start  Ian Begley

It’s hard to think that Christmas is now less than eight weeks away and we’ll soon be ringing in another New Year. So why not start 2016 with a treat and get your New Year off to a warm sunny start by taking advantage of some of the January winter sun deals available with lowcostholidays? One of the destinations on offer is a seven-night stay in Lanzarote on January 16 at the 3-star Blue Sea Los Fiscos from €279 per person. Alternatively, travel to Tenerife on January 18 for seven nights at the 4-Star Inter Palace from €299 per person or the Gran Canaria on January 16 for seven nights at the 4-Star Blue Bay Beach Club from €329 per person. And for those really looking to spoil themselves this January, you can book yourself a sun holiday in Fuerteventura on January 16 for seven nights at the 5-Star Geronios Suite & Spa from €399 per person. Those opting for the beautiful Mediterranean island of Malta will be happy to know that from €359 per person you can stay at the 5-Star Radisson Blu St Julian’s Hotel on January 16 for seven nights. Lowcostholidays Irish managing director Clem Walshe said: “January tends to be the most popular month as it’s great value and many holiday consumers like the idea of having a break in what most agree is the longest month of the year. “Forecasters are predicting one of the coldest Irish winters in many years so it’s not surprising we’re seeing a spike in demand for New Year breaks to the sun. “The Canaries tend to be the most popular destination for guaranteed sunshine with a healthy amount of discerning customers opting for the beautiful Mediterranean island of Malta.” For more information on these destinations, visit www.lowcostholidays.ie

TRAVEL

radisson blu, Athlone : ‘we had a nightcap to settle our nerves as a fog crept in on halloween night’

Autumn retreat puts on spooky show for guests  pearl phelan

IT could have been a summer’s day as we sat looking out on the Shannon and enjoying lunch at the Quayside Bar and Lounge at the Radisson Blu Athlone, but it was Halloween. It was a fine day for a barbecue on the riverside terrace. The relaxing start belied the excitement we were in for as the day unfolded. It is a handy journey from Dublin to Athlone by car, out the Galway road, or you can relax on the train, like we did. From the comfortable and central base, we explored the castle and town. The mighty Shannon divides the town in two, overlooked by the sturdy 13th century castle, which has seen many hard-fought battles to take control of the town. The visitor centre at Athlone Castle has stateof-the-art interactive experiences, which tell of the gruesome 1691 siege of Athlone. Video, sculpture and artefacts give an impression of how tough those times were. Macabre tales of bloodbath and massacre felt appropriate for the day that was in it. There are lots of opportunities for visitors to play dressup (not just at Halloween!), and get to grips with some weaponry of the era. Tickets cost €4 for children, €8 for adults and €20 for a family pass. Having worked up an appetite at the castle, the delicious dinner at

The Radisson Blu across the River Shannon on a summer-like Halloween day

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‘It is a handy journey from Dublin to Athlone by car, out the Galway road, or you can relax on the train’ --------------------------------------------------------

Elements Bistro did not disappoint. The contemporary space with bamboo screens and an interesting octagonal island hearth was an oasis of calm before our spooky

evening entertainment. The hotel played host to mentalist and hypnotist Keith Barry. The Waterford-born showman played to a packed crowd, delighting us with

his mind-control tricks and hypnotising willing participants. I was blown away by the vigour with which audience members played their parts while under Barry’s spell. A woman, who was portraying an aggravated cleaner, was an absolute scream and nearly stole the show. I dare not reveal too much, suffice to say

the title Out of Control is not an exaggeration. After a nightcap to settle the nerves, we retired to our spacious accommodation overlooking the river as a heavy fog crept in. For more information about upcoming shows and deals at the Radisson Blu Athlone visit www.radissonblu.com/ athlone

12 November 2015 Gazette 25

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 12 November 2015

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TEMPORARY STAFF DEB, as the largest provider of mock exams to second level schools in Ireland, requires employees for temporary work commencing in early January to pack and despatch exam papers to schools. literacy, accuracy, attention to detail, Good levels of literac ability to work as part of a team and to work under pressure essential.

Apply with CV to: Jobs@debonline.ie by Friday 20th November 2015

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Gazette

28 gazette 12 November 2015

SPORT Garth and Joyce win top gongs

FastSport

cricket: annual awards celebrate the best of a memorable year

Genesis hosts tricks and sticks: GEN-

ESIS Hockey Club in Stillorgan is participating in the Irish Hockey Association’s Tricks4Sticks programme that aims at encouraging hockey clubs to link up with non-hockey playing schools to introduce the sport and increase the number of participants. The Tricks4Sticks programme for local schools is supported by the Irish Sports Council’s Women in Sport, HSE and Healthy Ireland. The current programme with pupils from St Raphaela’s Secondary School runs up tothe end of the year. Genesis is keen to establish links with secondary schools in the Stillorgan area and is now looking for schools that are interested in introductory hockey sessions. The programme is free for participating school and includes coaching sessions by qualified coaches. For more information, contact Sorcha Cunningham 083-1857701

 sport@dublingazette.com

ED JOYCE, formerly of Merrion CC, and Pembroke’s Kim Garth have been rewarded for impressive international seasons by being named winners of the top priz-

es in the 2015 Hanley Energy Cricket Ireland Awards. Joyce, who was a previous winner in 2013, fought off tough competition from Sandymount native Andrew Balbirnie and North County’s John

Ed Joyce won the Irish men’s player of the year

Mooney to win the international men’s Player of the Year award. During the year, he became Ireland’s highest individual run scorer with a superb 231 in the InterContinental Cup win over UAE. He also scored a century in Ireland’s World Cup win over Zimbabwe - one of three victories for the Irish during the competition. Te e n a g e r G a r t h scooped the women’s Player of the Year award, beating off the challenge of Lucy O’Reilly and Cecelia Joyce. The Pembroke allrounder played a pivotal role in Ireland’s three match international series against world champions Australia,

Kim Garth

and was also to the fore with a number of strong performances in the ECB County Championship and T20 campaigns. Another star from that international series against Australia was YMCA teenager Gaby Lewis who is this year’s Sunday Independent Aengus Fanning Emerging Player of the Year. The 14-year-old has impressed in her first full season with the Irish Women’s side, and is certain to play a major role in Irish cricket in the coming years. Jack Tector is the 2015 Shapoorji Pallonji Cricket Ireland Academy Player of the Year. The YMCA batsman had a breakthrough season scoring heavily in domes-

tic cricket which saw him gain elevation to interprovincial cricket with Leinster Lightning. He also led Ireland Under19s with great distinction as they narrowly missed out on World Cup qualification. Leinster Lightning skipper Mooney was instrumental in leading his side to a clean sweep of trophies at interprovincial level scoring centuries in both the T20 and Championship formats. He is the winner of the Hanley Energy InterProvincial Player of the Year. M o o n e y ’s f o r m e r North County colleague Eddie Richardson was to the fore with both bat and ball as he enjoyed a quite superb domestic

season. Richardson was the leading wicket taker in Leinster claiming 50 wickets, as well as scoring 434 runs. For these displays, he is a deserved winner of the O’Neills Club Player of the Year award. Former Ireland opening batsman Alf Masood will become the 12th inductee to the Cricket Ireland Hall of Fame, which is voted for by the Cricket Writers of Ireland. Masood joins fellow Irish cricketing legends Simon Corlett, Mike Halliday, Stephen Warke, Ivan Anderson, Gerry Duffy, Ginger O’Brien, Ossie Colhoun, Roy Torrens, Dougie Goodwin, Jack Short and Alec O’Riordan.

Trio from Crumlin club win big at world karate event  sport@dublingazette.com

Daniel Donohue Jr, Dane Walton and Jake Jackson

THREE members of the Irish Wado Ryu Federation have just returned from the WKC Karate and kickboxing world championships that were held in Albufeira, Portugal, producing a series of fine results. Daniel Donohue Jr, Dane Walton and Jake Jackson have been training with each other for the last 18 years under the watch full eye of Sen-

sei Dan Donohue Sr. After three gruelling days of competition, the long-awaited world titles started to flow in. First to land a medal was Crumlin’s Walton, winning the Under-85kg light contact fighting title. Next, the club members took part in the three-man traditional team kata, taking gold once again. They were also successful in winning the open team kata gold once again as part

of an overall team effort that landed seven world titles for Ireland. The team has been chasing the WKC world title for the last seven years, winning silver and bronze in previous attempts but their perseverance paid off. Indeed, for the Wado Ryu team, this was their fifth world championship bid. The club itself is a non-profit club based in St Bernadette’s parish centre in Crumlin.

The athletes are self funded –with support from Murray’s Pub in Inchicore – and the three were training seven days a week after and before work coming up to the championships. Anyone who would like to join them in training can do so on Tuesdays from 8pm to 9.30pm and Friday from 7.30 to 9.30pm. For further information, go to www.irishwadoryufederation.jimdo.com.

12 November 2015 gazette 29

Gazette

Cluskey calls time on tennis career

Swords man tells JAMES HENDICOTT about why he has stepped off the globe-trotting grind that is the international circuit after 15 doubles titles and nine Davis Cup call-ups JAMES CLUSKEY has retired from professional tennis with immediate effect. The Swords man represented Ireland in the Davis Cup and peaked at an impressive 145 in the world as a doubles player. He’s been playing professionally since he graduated in 2009.

There’s a sense of “it’s time” to how Cluskey describes the retirement. At just 28 years of age, the player’s physically capable of continuing, but tells GazetteSport that it’s “not been the best year, results wise” and that the day in and day out of training is becoming increasingly

Swords man James Cluskey has retired after a fine career on the pro tennis circuit

trying. “I’m struggling to covers costs,” Cluskey told us. “I’m still really enjoying the games, but I have to be honest with myself, I’m just not as motivated as I was. I’ve been travelling full time since 2010, and while it was a tough decision, it’s time to move on to something else.” The Irish tennis scene has come a long way since Cluskey started out. He recalls playing Parks Tennis games in Swords as a youngster, where Peter Clarke, who peaked outside the world top 200, was looked up to as being “from a different planet” He still lauds Park Tennis as his career’s starting point. Cluskey broke into the Irish side for the Davis Cup match for a game against Slovenia at just 19, an experience that he still points to as a career highlight, alongside his main draw ATP contests. He was only the third

Irishman to play an ATP main tour event, and particularly recalls playing alongside the likes of David Ferrer. “I was able to play Davis Cup for the last nine years, play for the LSU Tigers for four years, reach a career high ranking of 145, win 15 doubles titles including two challengers, play main draw in a few ATP 250 events and make many friends from all over the world along the way. “Not bad for a Parks Tennis boy from Swords. I never thought I was the most gifted tennis player but I love the sport and always gave my best,” Cluskey wrote on his Facebook wall. Talking to him in person, the retirement seems more of a slow grinding down - wanting to spend some time at home, wondering what’s going to come next and being keen to push on to it, being sick of relying on others

to continue playing and motivation issues. He describes the travel experience - which for all but the top players can be a solitary one - as being “great when you’re in places like Las Vegas, but really quite difficult after a while in places like China and Azerbaijan, trying to get yourself ready to play professional sport”. He gratefully thanks sponsors who include a public crowd-funding campaign last year, Tennis Ireland and Sport Council Ireland, all of whom were “great,” but asking for money started to become a drain, something pushing Cluskey out of the sport. His final game was a quarter final loss against Rafael Nadal’s Wimbledon conqueror Dustin Brown and Carsten Ball in Sweden, a game in which Cluskey admits the better team won, but also a fittingly high-level finish.

expertView Flair and physicality used to optimum effect by NZ For the duration of the Rugby World Cup, ex-Edinburgh and Marlboro player and IRANZ Level 5 rugby coach Dennis Bowes has shared his thoughts on the festival. FOR over a month, fans and beyond were glued to the World Cup, and what an amazing time it has been for world rugby. With no end of drama, skills and emotion, some dodgy decisions and strange calls on and off the pitch, it’s been a great advert for the sport. It’s shown the challenges to reach the top of the game are huge and also who the brave ones are that will change to get there. The two best teams played out a fantastic final in London. Finals are often nervous affairs and often this overshadows the quality of rugby due to the pressure. Even with the world watching, we got the best final from two teams who played the game with skill, flair and no little physicality. This was the New Zealand of old, performing under pressure after a wobble as their big game players grabbed the game and drove it home. With many players on the New Zealand team bowing out of international rugby is this the last we see of McCaw, Carter (pictured) and crew? For Australia, can they continue to build on this now and maybe come RWC Japan in four years’ time be the team to overthrow New Zealand? Maybe Japan can one better and make the last eight on home soil? What next for the northern hemisphere? Can we catch up? Can we change what do we do? And who will be brave enough to change? We will have new laws, new body shapes come the next world cup. Will we have a new number one? Will north catch south in the style of game? Four years will go quickly and let’s hope we have started to review our game and will we be brave and honest about how we need to change? Can our culture allow us to change our mindset? For now, let’s agree if we can that we want all of our rugby played like the finals, with skill and fun the top of the list.

Gazette

30 SWORDS gazette 12 November 2015

SPORT

FastSport

Soccer: rush’s carolan and Ardgillan’s mcnally shine in blue

Westbrooks inspires Swords to derby win GCD SWORDS Thunder are back in the top half of the men’s Basketball Ireland Premier League thanks to an 82-70 win at Pyrobel Killester last weekend as they recorded their third win of the campaign. It puts them back in range of the top four sides and enhances their playoff places as they beat one of their rivals for a place in the upper echelons of the table. “It just puts us back in the hunt again,” said Thunder coach Dave Baker. “We’re starting to play for each other and believe in the system. Beating Killester on their own court is massive.” Isaac Westbrooks played a key role with 18 points as well as five rebounds and seven assists in a good all-round performance. Dan Nelms chipped in with 14 points while there were plenty of scores shared around the likes Kevin Lacey (pictured), Michael Goj, Sergi Guardia and Alex Dolenko. Killester, for their part, were reliant on Jermaine Turner who landed 25 points and 17 rebounds – including 12 on defence – but he suffered from a lack of support from those around him. Swords, meanwhile, had a much higher shooting percentage, especially from inside, while they scored all of their 23 free throws on the night. On the women’s side, DCU Mercy took control with a comprehensive 72-55 win over reigning champions Team Montenotte Hotel. The result consigned Team Montenotte Hotel to back-to-back defeats for the first time in over two years while Mercy are now unbeaten and three points clear at the top of the table. “The rivalry between these teams is well documented,” said DCU Mercy head coach Mark Ingle. “Both teams probably know we’re going to be in contention at the end of the season. Psychologically it was a good win for us.” DCU trailed by seven points at the break but forced the tempo and pulled off a 15-point swing in the third quarter. Sarah Woods’ 24 haul included a pair of three-pointers that quelled a mini-comeback in the fourth quarter.

The Leinster Under-15 girls celebrate their success

Fingal duo aid Leinster win sport@dublingazette.com

TWO Fingal schoolgirls played their part as Leinster retained their crown for the fourth consecutive year in a row in the FAI Schools Girls’ Under-15 Interprovincial Tournament. Isibeal Carolan of St Joseph’s SS, Rush, and Alix McNally from Ardgillan Community College, Balbriggan were part of Paul Howard’s squad for the competition that took place over the course of last weekend. The Leinster side, flush with girls from Dublin schools, won their opening two games before

losing to Munster in their final fixture, but had done enough to retain their title. They opened the competition with an enthralling seven-goal thriller against Ulster. Louise Masterson of Holy Family Community School in Rathcoole fired her province ahead after just three minutes with a brilliant solo effort. The girls from up north responded well though and found themselves 3-1 up by the 20th minute. Amy Boyle, Kerry Brown and Megan Havlin got the goals which rocked Leinster until the half-time break. Howard’s side came

fai junior cup Rivervalley advance by challenge of Dingle rivervalley Rangers advanced to the fifth

round of the FAI Junior Cup with a 2-1 win over Dingle last weekend in Grangegorman off the back of a high quality second half showing. John O’Donoghue profited from Daniel Murphy’s assist for the first goal before Murphy then rounded the home goalkeeper and slotted home with 20 minutes to go. Dingle got one back five minutes into injury time but too late to affect the outcome.

out after the interval in inspired form however. Doireann Fahey pulled one back early on to make it 3-2 before Masterson levelled the game from the penalty spot. The next goal was going to be crucial and with all the momentum behind them, it was Leinster who got it and what a goal it was. Following some nice build-up play, Carolan received the ball and from distance, fired an absolute rocket into the top corner which proved to be the winner. Leinster’s second game and second win of the weekend game against Connacht. Fiona Ryan

put Howard’s side ahead from close range early on before Carolan got her second goal of the weekend midway through the first half via a stunning volley with her left foot. Connacht pulled one back with a well-taken goal from Savannah Cassidy but didn’t have enough to find another and Leinster grabbed the victory. Going into the final set of fixtures, both Leinster and Ulster were in with a shout of winning the competition. Were Ulster to beat Connacht and Leinster to lose to Munster, Ulster would take the title. Munster were the only

side yet to win a game and looked determined to put that right in their final fixture. Aine Donegan fired them ahead but Alannah McEvoy equalised for Leinster early in the second half. With only minutes remaining, Sophie Liston popped up with a deserved winner for Munster, it didn’t dampen the Leinster spirits too much however as Connacht had beaten Ulster which meant Howard’s side were champions once again. Carolan and McNally will now wait to find out if they are included in the International Select to face England in Manchester in March.

12 November 2015 SWORDS gazette 31

Gazette

Bilingual tour

Fins’ Under-12 make mayoral visit to town

Club Noticeboard FINGALLIANS

fingallians’ Under-12 girls recently paid

a visit to Dublin Lord Mayor Criona Ni Dhalaigh. The group were given a bilingual tour, gaeilge agus bearla, of the mayoral residence in Dawson Street. The girls got to see the historic Round Room and also heard about how the Choctaw Indians helped Ireland during the Gorta Mor of 1847 with a great time had by all.

OUR minor hurlers will play next Sun-

mheara Atha Cliath, Criona Ní Dhálaigh,

day in the quarter final of the B cham-

who gave our U-12 girls a bilingual

pionship against St Oliver Plunkett’s at

turas of the Mansion House. Great

home. Throw in is at 11am.

experience for players and mentors.

This Sunday, November 15: Division

The last date for club shop Christ-

away; a positive result will put us into

mas orders will be November 30 and

the playoffs. The Division 6 semi-final

the last trading day for the shop will

against St Brendan’s, away, at 11am

be December 12 (opening hours from

and Division 11 semi-final versus Bal-

10-12pm each Saturday morning).

lyfermot, at home, at 2.30pm.

football: late free swings epic tie for saints

Ta griangrafanna ar Facebook.

3 final league game against St Jude’s

The club’s Irish language group

The club is organising foundation

meets each Wednesday at 9pm in the

football and hurling coaching courses

club bar. New participants are sought.

starting next Friday, November 13

Failte mor to all, regardless of stand-

from 7.30pm to 10pm. Please contact

ard.

wayne.hutchinson.gpo.dublin@gaa.ie for further information. The date of Thursday, November 19 has been set for this year’s annual

The new opening times for the club gym are as follows: Monday to Friday - 6.30-9.30pm, Saturday – 3-6pm and Sunday - 12.30-6pm.

general meeting. It is most important

The end of season awards night

that as many members as possible

will be held in the club on Saturday,

attend. The accounts will be avail-

December 5. Tickets €15. Members

able to members at 8-10pm on Friday,

appreciation evening will be held on

November 13.

Sunday, December 20 (further info on

Cailini U-12: Go raibh maith ag Ard-

both events to follow).

ST FINIAN’S

The St Margaret’s side that won the Dublin Under-15B football championship title

Dwyer’s rocket wins title for Margaret’s

under-15 B final St Margaret’s 3-12 Erin’s Isle 2-12  sport@dublingazette.com

STMARGARET’S Under15s landed the B football championship last week following a dramatic finish to a pulsating game in Blakestown Road, edging out Erin’s Isle. They got the decider off to a cracking start in near perfect conditions with two quick points from Ciaran McManus before Isle’s came into the game with a vengeance. They scored 1-6 without reply, including a stunning goal from Jack Timmins. Margaret’s

were struggling as Jamie Perry, Darragh Carroll and Jamie Hyland were dominating the middle of the park. Margaret’s didn’t lie down, though, and started to chip away at the lead. Five unanswered points from McManus, Ror y Dw yer Jordan Spratt and Eoin Hanlon brought them back to within two points at halftime, 1-7 to 0-8. The sides continued to produce fine, flowing football in the second half. McManus and Hanlon regularly surged forward with intent and Margaret’s were justly awarded a penalty when

Hanlon was taken down. The subsequent kick was precisely dispatched by Rory Dwyer. As time wore on, the half back line of captain Kevin Rooney, Richard Cooper and David Smyth, allied to outstanding goalkeeping from Jack Murphy proved pivotal. Substitute Dylan Abbott, shortly after coming on, scored a neat goal low to the left which gave Margaret’s the upper hand. Again points continued to be traded with full forwards Connor Newman and Micheal Ryan both clearing the bar to put Margaret’s two points

up. It set up a dramatic final minute. Isles were awarded a late penalty which Darragh Carroll coolly slotted home to put Isles ahead. Margaret’s refused to give up, though, and deep into injury time were awarded a free kick 20m out which Dwyer thundered into the roof of the net. McManus added an extra insurance point to round off the result and a superb season for St Margaret’s who, earlier in the year, had captured the Division 4 league title, making for an historic double.

IT WAS with huge pride that we watched

The adult camogie team played their

our club member Eoin O’Connor being

senior 7 championship final on Sunday

awarded a place on the Nicky Rackard

in O’Toole Park, Crumlin. The girls gave

Champion 15 for his performances

it their all in truly biblical weather con-

during 2015 with the Fingal senior

ditions but just came out the wrong

hurlers.

side of the result.

Eoin was accompanied to the GPA/

As a consolation, after the game,

GAA awards on Friday night by his

the team were presented with their

parents Anne and Eoin and club mate

senior 7 league winners trophy. Team

Ciara Buchanan.

captain Ailbhe Byrne commended the

The minor girls’ football team played in the shield final on Friday night against Clontarf but came out the wrong side of the result. The girls were delighted to have

entire team for their effort on Sunday and throughout the season. Many thanks also go to Martin Halpin for organising the supporters and team bus for the camogie final.

reached a final in what was the first

Well done to our U-21 footballers

year they have played together and

who got their championship season

are looking forward to their next sea-

off to a winning start in Chanel on Sat-

son.

urday against Parnell’s.

FINGAL Ravens CLUB lotto results: numbers drawn

recovery to Sean Griffin who had his

were 4, 15, 33 and 35. There was no win-

operation recently. We hope to see you

ner; €20 to C McArdle, Elaine Gleeson

back out on the pitch soon.

and Paddy and Florrie. Our lotto jackpot is now capped at

Our Fairyhouse Raceday takes place on November 28.

€17,000. The lotto jackpot will remain at

Tickets are €100 and include: trans-

€17,000 until it is won. We have started

port there and back from Kettle’s,

a ghost jackpot in the background

admission ticket, three-course meal,

which will be funded each week and

tea/coffee, tote facilities in the res-

will then be available as the new jack-

taurant, direct access to the Jameson

pot once the current jackpot has been

Stand, race card, pre race tipster, Fin-

won.

gal Ravens branded tickets and after

Our seniors play Thomas Davis at home on Sunday, November 15 at 11am in the league. The club would like to wish a speedy

racing music. Money raised goes towards the allweather pitch project which will be a huge benefit to all our members.

GazetteSPORT all of your swords sports coverage from page 28-31

november 12-18, 2015

leaves the court: super saints: Dwyer’s rocket seals the deal for cluskey Globe-trotting tennis star St Margaret’s in Under-15 championship final P31 retires after fine career P29

Finian’s claim first A title in 15 years  james hendicott

sport@dublingazette.com

ST FINIAN’S Under-13 side have won the club’s first A title in 15 years, with coach Sean Halpin describing the winning side as “perhaps Finian’s most successful side in 30 years”. The Under-13s promoted to Division 1 back in April, beating Plunkett’s in the Division 2 final, and have had a mixed league season as they established themselves in the top division, with results improving as the season progressed. Finian’s played Castleknock in the shield final, powering through

the final few minutes to clock up a seemingly dominant score in a fiercely competitive game in which they found themselves behind shortly after half time. A Castleknock goal early in the second half put the west Dubs two points ahead, but a goal from Ellie Kane followed by a second from Ciara Laird quickly turned the match in Finian’s favour. Alongside wing back Kane, Shauna O’Shaughnessy had an outstanding game in midfield, while Robin Lynch’s late penalty secured what ended as a comfort victory for Finian’s, who came out with an impressive margin of 4-9 to 3-3.

Speaking to GazetteSport, Halpin emphasised that following a few weeks off to enjoy their win, the side will be back to training through the winter to prepare for their next Division 1 assault next year. “Of course, the hope is that we convert young successes like this into the adult sides,” Halpin said. “We don’t have strong numbers in ladies football, and Conor Collier [who also coaches the side] and I both played for the club at adult level. “This is my first coaching job, and we’re starting to make a lot of progress; to see players coming in

from other clubs and to produce some real role model players. “There are six players on the Under-13 side that should actually be playing at Under-12 level, but they’re very able at this level. “We didn’t really know what to expect from the step up, but we’re so proud of the girls. This team has the potential to go a long, long way.” The powerful second half performance from Finian’s certainly suggest they’re a team full of confidence and ready to make a real mark at the top of the game. The camogie side at the same age group is also becoming a force to be reckoned with.

The St Finian’s Under-13 footballers who won their A title last week