Swords

Gazette swords

PLUS:

July 16 - 22, 2015

FREE

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

INSIDE: Gallons of coffee and a zest for his work fuel Today FM presenter Anton Savage’s everyday life P11

competition: You and a friend could win a fabulous trip to Cornwall See P24

A good steer: Taking a turn on a fair’s tractor Athletics:

Fingallians win series of medals at nationals Page 30

COLIN Fox could hardly see over the steering wheel of this tractor, but the little boy showed big determination to get to grips with some agricultural issues when he joined the crowds of people enjoying the Flavours of Fingal festival recently. The county show, held at Newbridge House and Farm, brought together a wide range of sights, tastes and flavours from across Fingal, celebrating the diverse range of produce providers in a number of fields that are found across the county.

See Gallery on Pages 8-9

Swimming:

Series of PBs for Ellen Keane in Glasgow Page 32

Find us on

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES....................... 8 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................28

€18m aims to make Fingal a destination Council tourism strategy to focus on heritage, food, retail and business

 keith bellew

MORE than €18m is to be invested in Fingal in new and existing tourism facilities as part of a strategy to develop tourism in the county.

The new Fingal Tourism Strategy, Destination Fingal, sets out a vision for tourism in the county and plots the actions necessary to develop the sector.

Among the projects which Fingal County Council has

committed to invest in are the East Coast Greenway – a signed tourism route from Howth to Balbriggan; the Swords Cultural Quarter; and the re-development of various heritage properties in the county.

Among the areas which the strategy identifies as offering opportunities are heritage tourism, activity and sports-based tourism, food tourism, retail, conference and business tourism.

Continued on Page 3

2 swords gazette 16 July 2015

education Extra allocation of special needs assistants

Support for local schools welcomed A NUMBER of primary and secondary schools in Fingal will receive an extra allocation of special needs assistants for the 2015-16 school year.

Among the primary schools to receive additional SNAs are Holywell Educate Together NS, Skerries Educate Together, Bracken Educate Together, Holy Family Senior NS, Swords Educate Together NS,

 keith bellew kbellew@dublingazette.com

Donabate Portrane Educate Together NS and Thornleigh Educate Together.

Secondary schools to benefit include Colaiste

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

Choilm, Ardgillan Community College and Lusk Community College.

This is part of a nationwide allocation of 610 SNA posts approved by the Cabinet and announced recently by the Minister for Education and Skills, Jan O’Sullivan, recently.

Dublin primary schools will receive an additional 127 SNA posts, secondary schools an additional 41 posts, and there will be an extra 22 posts in special schools.

Some schools have voiced concerns about the fact that they had to wait until mid-summer to find out their allocations.

As the new school year begins in September, it leaves the schools very little time to source and hire new staff. It also leaves SNAs little time to find new positions.

Deputy Alan Farrell (FG) welcomed the announcement, saying he was proud that since taking office, the Government had overseen an 11.7% increase in the number of SNA posts.

He said: “We’ve basically ensured that every child across the constituency who has an entitlement to an SNA will get one, which is obviously very important for their educational needs.

“W hen a child is

Minister for Education and Skills Jan O’Sullivan – her Department has announced the allocation of 610 additional special needs assistants across the country

assessed as having a particular need, in terms of their education it’s really important that we actually deliver on it,” he said.

M e a nw h i l e , t h e r e was more good news for Holy Family Senior National School, as it was announced by the

Department of Education that it is to receive funding for two new mainstream classrooms.

Deputy Farrell said: “I am delighted that funding is being allocated to Holy Family in Rivervalley for two new mainstream classrooms.

“T he provision of additional classrooms to schools throughout Fingal, and particularly in Malahide, Swords and their surrounding areas, is essential in order to cater for the demand for school places in the local community.”

16 July 2015 swords gazette 3

creativity

council: new policy objectives aim to maximise sector’s benefits

Design contest at schools

Strategy to further boost tourism jobs Continued from Page 1

It is understood that the €18m investment by Fingal County Council will help lever additional funds by the private sector. The new strategy was launched at a recent event at Swords Castle, which is a key element of the new strategy.

Mayor of Fingal, David O’Connor (Ind) spoke of his pride in seeing Swords Castle open to the public again after many years of closure. It was particularly appropriate that the castle was hosting the launch of the county’s new tourism strategy, given that it has the potential to play a key role in attracting new visitors to Swords and to Fingal, he said.

“The strategy estimates

that visitors to Fingal currently contribute €500m a year to the local economy, and sustain 20,000 jobs – one in four of the jobs in the county.

“There are currently about 800 tourism businesses in the county. This shows the importance of this indigenous sector.

“Our goal is to ensure the continuing success of the attractions we have and to support the development of new opportunities and new markets,” said Cllr O’Connor.

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Paschal Donohoe was on hand for the launch and commended the council for leading the way among local authorities in playing a role in the Govern-

ment’s new Tourism Policy Statement – People, Place and Policy: Growing Tourism to 2025.

This policy sets out a range of policy objectives aimed at maximising the economic, social, and environmental benefits of tourism, with the aim of attracting 10 million overseas visitors to Ireland annually by 2025.

Minister Donohoe said: “Under the new policy, local authorities will have a key role in supporting the development of tourism and so I commend Fingal County Council for leading the way in developing this local tourism strategy, which will help deliver on national policy objectives.”

Water cute baby! Layla is the July face of a swimming school’s classes BALROTHERY baby Layla Power made quite a splash with the news that she had been chosen as the July Face of Water Babies.

The just turned one-year-old started swimming classes at just seven weeks old, with the baby and toddler swim school picking the lovely little lady as the latest face in its monthly competition and campaign, which highlights some of the participants in its swimming schools, and offers a chance to win a wide range of goodies. For information about Water Babies classes in Fingal and Dublin, see www.waterbabies.ie.

BUDDING young architects in primary schools throughout Fingal and beyond are being invited

by Swords-based banana importers Fyffes to demonstrate their talent in a way that could provide extra accommodation for their school.

Children aged seven to 10 are being asked to take part in a competition that invites them to submit ideas that would provide useful school space, with the winning work being brought to life in a shipping container, remodelled and fitted out to the student’s design and installed at his or her school according to its requirements.

The entry form can be downloaded at www. freddy f y ffes.ie/gobananas.

4 swords gazette 16 July 2015

main street €2.8m spent to refurbish one of town’s best known buildings

Wetherspoon’s Old Borough opens with 85 jobs PUB operator JD Wetherspoon will open its pub, The Old Borough, in Swords on Tuesday, July 21, with the creation of 85 jobs.

The company has spent €2.8m developing the outlet, on the site of The Old Boro pub on Main Street.

One of the town’s bestknown buildings, the detached, two-storey, T-shaped property was a school for 191 years until its closure in 2000, when it then became a pub.

The inside of the Old Borough National School has been altered over the years, but

the outside is much as it was when it was designed by noted Irish architect Francis Johnston, who designed the GPO. The new pub will be open from 8am until 11.30pm, Sunday to Thursday, and from 8am until 12.30am on Friday and Saturday.

Alcohol will be served from 10.30am Monday to Saturday, and from 12.30pm on Sunday.

Food will be served from opening until 11pm, every day.

Children accompanied by an adult, are welcome in the pub up until 9pm, throughout the

week.

The new-look venue is wheelchair-friendly and features one bar, as well as a beer garden and smoking area. Historical photos, details of local history, information relating to events, historical buildings and characters of the area, as well

as artwork by local artists, are all on display.

Manager Dan Foster said: “Myself and my team are looking forward to welcoming customers into the pub, and we are confident that it will be a great addition to the Swords community.”

Portrane construction for special care services begins  keith bellew

CONSTRUCTION works on residential units at Crannog Nua in Portrane, which have been designated for special care services, will begin shortly. It is hoped that the works will be completed by 2016.

The works relate to an extension to cater for four additional residents at the child and family agency Tusla-operated facility which currently has a six-bed capacity.

Crannog Nua was previously used as a high-support unit for children in State care. High-support units are open

residential centres caring for highly vulnerable children needing intensive intervention. However, it has now been designated as a special care unit. Special care involves the detention of a child for his or her own welfare and protection with onsite educational and therapeutic supports.

A review of special care needs and capacity was completed by Tusla in 2014, resulting in a decision to increase service capacity. “A programme of retrofit and new-build works at Crannog Nua will commence shortly to make this facility fit [for special care services],” said a Tusla spokesperson.

Minister for Communications Alex White has said people will see the benefit of the new Eircode system in the coming weeks and months

services: mixed reaction to postal changes

New €27m Eircode system launched  keith bellew

THE new Eircode postal system, which cost €27m to design, was launched this week and Dublin homeowners and businesses will get their new address in the post in the coming weeks.

Eircodes comprise seven characters that are unique to each mailing address.

The seven characters are divided into two parts – a routing key and a unique identifier.

For example, Dublin Airport’s Eircode is K67 C3V1.

Codes for each address

are generated at random, so codes for neighbouring properties bear no resemblance to each other. Major delivery companies, including UPS, have said they will not use Eircode for this reason.

The Irish Fire and Emergency Ser vices Association said the random design could “cost lives”, as codes are not predictable so that emergency services can find localities easily from memory.

Cllr Eugene Coppinger (AAA), who worked in the postal service for many years, said he did

not believe the new system is at all necessary and thinks the project was a waste of money.

He said: “Most people, particularly the emergency services, use GPS to get from address to address. You put a postal address into your app and you’ll be brought to the front door, so why the need for these codes?”

While the Irish Fire and Emergency Services Association has criticised Eircode, a spokesperson from the Department of Communications said it has been strongly welcomed by the national ambulance service

(which is operated by the HSE) because it will help save lives.

T he spokesperson said: “Eircode will allow the emergency services to quickly identify and verify the precise location of premises, especially in rural areas. The Department has been in continuous contact with the emergency services throughout this project.”

T he spokesperson went on to say that while some delivery companies had criticised Eircode, others such as Nightline, the country’s biggest delivery company – fully supported it.

16 July 2015 swords gazette 5

don’sdublin Oldest museum in State yet hardly anyone knows it It is the oldest museum in Ireland and, until recently, a place that I had not known about. The Zoological Museum, in Trinity College, was established in 1777, although records show that there were collections of “natural history objects” dating back almost 100 years before. The museum was originally based in the Regent House and was established to house Polynesian artifacts from the South-Sea Islands, many of which had been brought back from the expeditions of Captain Cook.

A new building was erected in 1876 to house the growing collection, but due to renovations and the demand for space the museum is now on the first floor. However, much of the collection is intact and it is a vital resource for students.

Over the years there has been a number of curators with Whitley Stokes (founder of the Botanic Gardens and co-founder of Dublin Zoological Society) appointed in 1792, and Robert Ball in 1844.

He was the most influential appointee and was responsible for amassing most of what the museum now holds. And in that same year, when it was declared extinct, the museum was presented with a specimen of Ireland’s Last Great Auk. This flightless bird, a relative of the puffin and razorbill, was hunted by man for its fine feathers.

Only a few specimens remain in museums today, and it is one of the most treasured items in the museum’s 25,000 piece collection.

The great thing about visiting the museum is that you handle many of the items, and if you like (or dare!) you can have your photograph taken in the jaws of a giant shark.

Now that’s different!

From birds and butterflies to a royal elephant there is much to see and enjoy in this little museum.

And, appropriately for a zoological institution, there is a rare Charles Darwin item in a glass case at the entrance. Don’t miss it.

Don Cameron

www.donsdublin.wordpress.com

The Zoological Museum in Trinity College was established in 1777 and houses a 25,000 piece collection for all to enjoy

festival Mayor praises event’s diversity and scope

60,000 attend Flavours of Fingal AROUND 60,000 people attended this year’s Flavours of Fingal show, and Fingal County Council has now set itself the objective of establishing the county show as one of Ireland’s largest familyfriendly food and farm events.

Over the coming weeks, the council will be pursu-

ing plans to further grow the event in 2016.

This year saw a number of new additions to the festival programme, including an array of vintage cars and farming vehicles displayed at the Fingal Vintage Show, and a crafts and artisan food pavilion, complete with cupcake workshops.

Fingal County Council said it would now strive to develop the event so it would become a major national showcase of Fingal’s food credentials.

Major local food producers were in attendance, including Keelings, Country Crest and Keoghs.

Mayor David O’Connor said the show represents

all that is good about Fingal, including food, community, arts, heritage and biodiversity. He said: “I’m delighted to see the collaboration with our partners, Fingal Tourism, Fingal Farmers Group, Fingal Harriers and the Fingal Vintage Society.”

Fingal County Council chief executive Paul Reid

said: “So many people told me over the weekend how much they enjoyed the show, and look forward to attending every year.

“We look forward to working with existing and new partners in 2016 to increase the success of this event and place it on the national stage.”

6 swords gazette 16 July 2015

balbriggan Local performer is youngest competitor in top cabaret contest

Ready for the challenge of Miss Burlesque Ireland  keith bellew

A BALBRIGGAN woman is set to compete in the Miss Burlesque Ireland competition at The Button Factory on Saturday, July 18.

The youngest finalist in the competition, 23-year-old Fiona “Fi” Rooney is an aerial-

FastNews

Make your mark at the Great Malahide Quiz THE Great Malahide Quiz, hosted by Malahide Tidy Towns Committee, returns to The Grand Hotel this year on Thursday, July 23.

The event begins at 8pm, with all proceeds going to the Tidy Towns Committee. This annual event, and the funds it raises, accounts for a large portion of the group’s annual budget.

Locals are encouraged to come down on the night to test their knowledge and support their award-winning committee.

For further information, see the Malahide Tidy Towns Facebook page..

U2 stages could go on show at Fingal exhibition FINGAL County Council is considering the possibility of displaying stages from the past tours of Dublin band U2 at an exhibition in Fingal.

Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) proposed the idea as a potential tourist attraction, following the airing of an interview in which the band’s frontman, Bono, expressed a desire to see an exhibition of the band’s stage props in Dublin.

Some of these props were designed by famous artists and are quite valuable.

ist, artist and circus performer who performs under the stage name, Fifi La Roux.

She was first introduced to the world of circus, burlesque and the Dublin City Cabaret scene after picking up a hula hoop at a music festival during 2012.

She began training in the art

of aerial acrobatics through PaperDolls, a collaborative aerial performance company, and pole dancing at the Irish Pole Dance Academy.

There, she underwent extensive conditioning and training, perfecting her skills and understanding of performance. In 2013, she set off with The Kelly

Miller Circus on a tour across America.

She said: “This was perhaps one of the biggest challenges I have yet faced. At the time, I was only used to performing small cabarets and friends’ shows that were put on throughout Dublin and Drogheda.

“I had to travel across the world on my own, and slip right into the middle of the circus’s tour and there was some serious [demanding] timetables I had to get used to, fast.”

In 2014, she travelled to Milan to train and study for five months at the Brera Academy of Fine Art.

This year. she has made it to the finals of Miss Burlesque Ireland, where she will debut three new original acts.

For further information on the competition, see www. facebook.com/missburlesqueireland. For further information on Miss Fifi La Roux, see www.firooney.com.

finance: claims contentious charge ‘discriminates against dublin’

Review of local property tax effects is under way  Keith Bellew

A review of the effects of rising property values on the local property tax (LPT) is currently under way and due to be completed this summer.

This comes as the price of an average three-bedroom, semidetached house in north county Dublin has risen by 1.01%, to €250,000, in the second quarter of 2015, according to a national survey carried out by Real Estate Alliance.

The review is being carried out by financial expert and chairman of the 2012 Inter-Departmental Expert Group which designed the LPT, Dr Don Thornhill.

The purpose of the review is to consider and make recommendations about what adjustments might be made to the LPT system to achieve relative stability. The results of the review will be considered in the context of Budget 2016.

This was confirmed by the Department of Finance in response to calls for the system to be changed to reflect the rising property values of homes in Dublin.

Senator Darragh O’Brien (FF) called for a freeze on property tax

valuations until 2020, saying Dubliners were facing property tax hikes of €400-€500 as Dublin house prices had jumped by an average of 40% since 2013.

He said: “The current property tax system, based solely on property values, discriminates heavily against Dublin homeowners, who are forced to pay multiples of the tax paid by people in larger houses outside Dublin.”

Fianna Fail has made a submission to the Property Tax Review calling for a number of changes to the LPT legislation, including a freeze on valuation bands until the year 2020, at which point a full review of the system will be carried out.

The party also called for property tax relief for those who are already paying property management fees, and exempting homeowners suffering from serious pyrite damage from the tax for three years, or until the problem is remediated.

Senator O’Brien said: “The Government shot down our attempts to amend the property tax legislation to make it much fairer on Dublin householders. Fine Gael and Labour were intent

Senator Darragh O’Brien (FF): “The current property tax system ... discriminates heavily against Dublin homeowners, who are forced to pay multiples of the tax paid by people in larger houses outside Dublin”

on ramming through the legislation without proper debate.”

Cllr Keith Redmond (FG) previously proposed a motion which was passed by Fingal County Council calling on the Minister to lift the 15% ceiling on councillors adjusting the LPT. He said: “This would

allow each council individually to vary the property tax according to their individual property prices and their demand for funding services. It’s the most democratic and accountable method of fixing the issue.”

He went on to criticise Fianna Fail “who agreed with the Troika to intro-

duce property tax in the first place”, saying their proposal did not solve the problem and simply “kicks the can down the road”.

He added: “It also doesn’t allow individual councils to reduce property tax any more until 2020 at the least.

It doesn’t allow councils

to tailor property tax to local prices or to fund services on the basis of local needs.

“I want a solution to these issues now, not in 2020.”

Cllr Redmond said homeowners with ongoing pyrite issues are already exempt from the LPT.

16 July 2015 Swords Gazette 7

C o m m e r c i a l F e at u r e

A view of Wrights Café Bar pub exterior

The newly renovated Wrights Cafe bar and restaurant

Café Bar celebrates 15 years serving Swords Back in 2000, Michael Wright spotted a gap in the market and opened a Premier late night bar in Swords village. Wrights Café Bar has been hugely successful generating an impressive turnover year on year. The Café bar has been awarded many awards such as National Pub of the Year and Best Licensed Premises in the Fingal area.

To celebrate the last 15 years we are launching our new kitchen and Menu. The kitchen at Cafe Bar Swords has recently undergone a total refurbishment, where we took the decision to partner with the prestigious Ambach Brand & Kaneco (catering specialist) and install a custom made System 900 cooking suite.

The System 900 installed at Cafe Bar is a heavy duty top of the range suite which includes a Grill, Pasta Boilers, Fryers, Rotisserie and Custom made Lava Stone Pizza Oven, giving us the versatility to cater for the locals needs.

We also installed several Williams CP3 inline fridges and a blast chill-

ing system to cater for the most up to date HACCP requirements.

Our team is fronted

by Our GM Venantius McKnight who has been working in the café bar for 12 years, a familiar face to our customers and gives the café bar that personal touch.

Our bar manager Gary Moody gets the transition from bar & restaurant to late disco bar at night just right.

Our new Menu has been designed by our Head chef Ross O’Brien.

Our New wine & Pizza bar has wines on tap by Wine Lab, a new cock-

always been the place to be scene with our Resident DJ’s including FM104’s Mark Nobel.

We pride ourselves with being loyal to our customers & consistent in our quality and servic.

Commenting on this Anniversary Michael said, “I am overwhelmed with the success we have achieved over the last 15 years, I work with a wonderful and talented team who are dedicated to the business. The café bar has matured and our staff are highly experienced and I suppose the company has grown up.

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

“I am overwhelmed with the success we have achieved over the last 15 years, I work with a wonderful and talented team who are dedicated to the business. The café bar has matured and our staff are highly experienced and I suppose the company has grown up...”

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

tail menu and an intimate setting for a quiet drink or social pizza with friends and family.

The Late night Venue, Home of the original late night bar in Swords has

We are proud to have survived the recession which was tough for all but particularly publicans, and the fact that we are winning awards and experiencing growth

is a great reflection on the determination and hard work of our staff.

We welcome Empire and Weatherspoon’s to Swords and we embrace the rejuvenation and growth of Swords village.”

Every Night of the Week we have something to suit your tastes

from: •How’s your balls bingo goes down a treat ever y Tuesday night, with cash prizes and a roll over jackpot. •After work Friday’s with live music from 6pm and special drink and food offers. •Acoustic sets on a Sunday evening, not to mention our late disco bar 6 nights a week.

For more information phone (01) 840 6760 or visit w w w. wrightscafebar.ie

A ddress: T he Plaza, Malahide Rd, Swords, Co. Dublin

Over the last 15 years, the Wrights Café Bar have been awarded many Awards: ● 2004 National Superpub of the Year ● 2006, 2007, 2010 Pub of the Year Award ● 2013 Best Bar Service Award ● 2013 Best Business Frontage (Horticultural Society) ● 2013 Best Bar: Fingal Chamber of Commerce ● Many Trip Advisor Recommendation ● 2013 Michael Wright won the JC Savage Fingal Business Person of the year award

8 swords gazette 16 March 2015

gazetteGALLERIES

Ronan Russel of Newgrange Willow Design

Juliette Collins and Isabella Cruise

Clara Bella-Cully, who came fifth in the Pony Most Want to Bring Home competition, seen here with Buddy Cully. Pictures: Stephen Fleming

Top taste: LOCALS ENJOY FLAVOURS OF THE AREA

Fingal serves up dishes of fun L

OCALS enjoyed two days of fun and food at Flavours of Fingal recently. The county show combined the sights and sounds of an agricultural show with an unforgettable food, horticultural and family fun experience while the farm section of the show featured a programme of livestock and sheep competitions, equestrian contests and other agricultural displays. The historic walled garden of Newbridge House hosted a food producers’ section with an array of local delights. It was a joint venture in association with Fingal County Council, Fingal Farmers, Fingal Tourism and Newbridge House and Farm.

Brian and Ross Keegan with their restored 1926 steam tractor engine

15 July 2015 swords gazette 9

Glen Keogh teaches his son Bodean the art of traditional sheep shearing

Sophie, Michael and Sean Quinn, Emma Getty with James Quinn, Coco and Jennifer Getty

Liam Jordan, a small The members of Irish Military Living History

man in a big, big wheel

Farrier Andrew Mahon

Allison Fullam of Boyne Valley Wools

10 gazette 16 July 2015

gazetteGALLERY

Orna Collins and Julia O’Leary

Karl Fitzpatrick and Elaine Hanley, Catherine Lonergan and Clodagh O’Hea

Alexandra Moore

Leah O’Donovan, Margaret O’Halloran and Grainne O’Sullivan. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Having a ball and helping out charity W

ell-known faces from the Irish modelling business turned heads at the June Ball in aid of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association recently at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dublin.

The glitzy event was attended by over 700 guests and was a resounding success raising more than €60,000 on the night.

The association is the primary support

Maya Geller and Dan McNamara

organisation for people living with motor neurone, their family and carers. Key services include home visiting by a motor neurone disease nurse, financial assistance towards home care, funding towards research and the provision of specialist medical equipment on loan to clients. Funds raised on the night will be divided between these crucial services that the charity provides.

16 July 2015 Gazette 11

HEALTH P14

asdfsdaf law P27 P16

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



Gazette

feature P13

what’son can you bear to miss a special day with your teddy bear?

THE tenth Teddy Bears’ Picnic will return to Blackrock Park on July 19 for children of all ages.

Also being celebrated on the day is National Playday, and there will be lots of fun and games taking place all around the park.

Broadcaster Anton Savage: “The only major part of my morning is having huge, vast quantities of coffee”

A DAY IN THE LIFE: tune in to popular broadcaster’s coffee-fuelled show

A Savage day for presenter  ian begley

ANTON Savage, the accomplished, suit-wearing presenter of Today FM, has built up quite an impressive CV over the years, working vigorously to deliver entertaining and informative shows to thousands of listeners from around Dublin each day.

This week The Gazette caught up with Savage to see what a day in his life is like.

“I usually get up at about 5.40am every morning. I don’t have much of a breakfast and have a mindless brain stem routine that just about gets me to the car. The only major part of my morning is having huge, vast quantities of coffee.

“I have one of those cheap Dunnes

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

‘When I get home, I go through the usual routine of finding something edible to force into my face’ -----------------------------------------

Stores coffee machines in my house, and drink about a half a pint before I leave the house and bring the other half with me in the car.

“I have a quick detour into a coffee shop before I get into the station, which would probably be the equivalent of another pint of coffee.

“The best thing about having to get up early is that the bus lanes are still open, which means that it only takes me about

12 minutes to get into work.

“Whenever it’s lovely and sunny outside, I say to myself that I wish I had a bike but on the days when it’s raining and dark, it’s lovely to be in a warm, comfy car with a cup of coffee listening to Paula [MacSweeney] and Ian [Dempsey] on Today FM,” he said.

Arriving into the Today FM studios at about 7am, Savage said he researches all the news of the day and helps to choose what stories would be best suited for the show.

“We go on air at 9am, and are done at noon. After the show, we would sometimes do a pre-record of the following day’s show or maybe I would interview a guest.

“I would then shoot across to the Communications Clinic, except on Wednes-

days when I would spend the afternoon writing a feature for The Herald.”

Savage, who lives on the northside of Dublin, usually gets home by 6pm and says that it would be very rare that he would have a day shorter than 12 hours.

“When I get home, I go through the usual routine of finding something edible to force into my face, and by the time it’s Friday I’m very eager for it to be the weekend.

“I’m becoming a huge fan of Netflix, because of the huge variety of documentaries that are available on it.

“I usually head to bed extremely early.

When I was doing Ireland AM, I was going to bed at about 8.30pm, but nowadays if I go to bed later than 9.40pm then it’s a miracle,” he said.

Check-ups Families are invited to bring their bears and blankets along on the day, where there will be free bear care and check-ups from the Bear Doctor and the Teddy Bears’ Hospital.

Teddy bears will be treated to minor repairs to give ailing grizzlies a new lease of life.

There will also be a DJ, face painting, bouncy castles and inflatable games for all ages, entertainment at the Lake Stage, a make and do area and picnic facilities with plenty of goodies on offer.

The event will start at 1pm and finish at 5pm. The Teddy Bears’ Picnic is a free event. For further information, see www.dlrevents.ie.

Gazette

12 Gazette 16 July 2015

dublinlife

DIARY

A very cheeky remark Government TDs and Ministers were appalled and outraged in the Dail recently when Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams said a bold word.

Speaking in the Dail during a discussion on the Environment Bill, to which the Government had tacked on some new water charge legislation, Deputy Adams alluded to the Coalition’s preelection promise of a democratic revolution sayingL “Democratic revolution my arse.”

The Coalition members were disgusted by the remark, or went to great pains to appear so at least.

Enda Kenny’s answer to Don Corleone’s Luca Brassi, Government chief whip Paul Kehoe (FG), led the charge of indignation saying: “Shame on you, shame on you.”

A s u s u a l G e r r y ’s loyal Deputy Mary Lou McDonald was thrilled with her leader’s performance laughing away at his side and tweeting his remark with the kind of pride Mary Todd would have felt for Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.

clampers hamper new lord mayor IT’S probably fair to say that Dublin Lord Mayors and clampers don’t mix

– as Sinn Fein’s newly elected Lord Mayor Criona Ni Dhalaigh found out when she was clamped recently.

In an ironic twist of fate, it occurred as she was parked outside Dublin City Council’s Wood Quay headquarters.

Just three months ago, her predecessor Cllr Christy Burke (Ind) said that he was opposed to any increase in the fees for the removal of clamps, saying that any increase would only work to serve the company operating the clamping service.

“It would appear to me that the requested increase is certainly to boost the profits,” he said.

While it is unclear whether the clampers in question knew whose car they were attaching the automotive fetters to, average citizens can take solace in the knowledge that even the Lord Mayor cannot escape parking regulations in this fair city.

a healthy way to learn about city Dublin City Council’s community initiative, Let’s Walk and Talk, is a great way for people to stay healthy, meet people and learn a little something about Dublin City.

This initiative com-

prises weekly walks in various parts of the city, themed historical walking tours and other special events.

To mark the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue last year, a new “leg” to this initiative was launched entitled New Shores, Ancient Footprints, which was aimed to educate Irish people about other cultures that exist in the city.

Felip Garzon from Mexico said these walks helped him greatly to improve his English “When I came to Ireland, I wanted to meet Irish people and learn about Irish culture but it was very difficult.

“These walks have given me the chance to do this as well as helping me improve my English,” he said.

For more information about these walks visit www.dublincity.ie/letswalk-and-talk.

a musical fable of Broadway The highly-acclaimed production of Guys and Dolls by the Chicester Festival Theatre production will come to Dublin next April following its run in London’s West End. The musical production will run at Dublin’s Bord Gais Energy

Gerry Adams struck a bum note in the Dail with some inappropriate language. Picture: Cathy Weatherston

Theatre from April 26 to 30. The story, which is based around the prohibition-era of New York, is a hugely popular and multi-award winning musical.

It is based on the colourful stories by American journalist Damon Runyon who was renowned for his vivid fictional depictions of gamblers, hustlers and nightclub singers of New York.

Tickets are available

from the Ticketmaster from July 3, 2015, and are priced at €20.

Come out to play at Curiosity fest The Festival of Curiosity will take place this July and as it was a sellout event for the last two years, now is the time to snap up a ticket.

During the day there is a list of events that are free for families including treasure trails, Lego building, rocket launches,

shows and workshops.

By night Dublin city will light up in a curated programme including a lively fusion of science, arts, culture and technology.

There is a special theme to the festival this year about making memories, and inviting people of all ages to come out to play and to try new things.

Ellen Byrne, co-founder and creative director of the festival, said:

“Going into year three at a festival – with two sellout festivals behind us and over 40,000 people visiting each year – it’s really wonderful to see a home-grown Dublin festival exploring science, arts and technology spread its wings so far so quickly.”

The festival will take place from July 23 to 26.

For more information information about the festival at www.festivalofcuriosity.ie

16 July 2015 GAZETTE 13

ESCAPE THE MAYHEM: ACTRESS AND AUTHOR KATIE KIRBY

Happy to exercise her thoughts  AISLING KENNEDY

KATIE Kirby is a busy woman who alongside her acting career in both TV and theatre, has just recently finished her first novel, Could It Be You. She also has a onemonth-old baby and a two-year-old, so finding time to relax and unwind is very important to her.

The Gazette spoke to Kirby to find out how

she manages to escape the mayhem of motherhood and deadlines.

She said: “I exercise as much as I can. I like to keep outdoors as much as possible, especially if the weather is good.”

Out and about

Kirby said that her two daughters keep her on her toes, and that she always likes to be out and about with them.

“My two-year-old in

par ticular loves being outdoors, so she’s a great motivator to get me out of the house!

Today, we’re visiting Glenroe Park to feed the animals, so I’m always trying to stay as active as possible with them.”

Kirby is also a big fan of Tracy Anderson exercise videos, and throughout her pregnancy she

kept herself relaxed and fit by completing the workout videos three days a week.

“I’ve been using her exercise videos for many years; she’s my fitness guru.”

Kirby said that since she had her second daughter four weeks ago, she has yet to get back into her fitness regime.

“I’ve been walking and things like that, but we have a very awake baby the second time around, so she’s giving us a run for our money.

“I’m looking forward to getting back to normal soon. I remember before my first baby was born, I used to think exercising was a bit of a chore but now, after I’ve had my children, I think: ‘Oh, I want this, an hour to myself to relax’,” she said.

Kirby’s biggest pleasure for relaxation is watching tennis in the summer months.

She said: “I don’t watch much T V, but when I do sit down to watch it, my guilty pleasure is the French Open and Wimbledon. I love watching tennis.”

K irby’s first novel, Could It Be You?, is a romance novel and is available to buy now as an eBook for £2.99 on Amazon.com.

Katie Kirby; right, her romantic new ebook, Could It Be You?

GAZETTE

ESCAPE THE MAYHEM

Gazette

14 Gazette 16 July 2015

dublinlife Micro-triathlon: Dublin people share their stories

Give it a Tri, raise  Keith Bellew

Pictured at the launch of Give it a Tri for Arthritis was Edel McCabe, communications manager, Arthritis Ireland and Arthritis Ireland volunteers Alison Paisley and Sinead McGuinness. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

Arthritis Ireland is holding a micro-triathlon this October 11 at Sportslink, Santry, to coincide with National Arthritis Week.

The micro-triathlon is the first of its kind in Ireland and consists of a 3km run or walk, a 3km cycle and three lengths of a pool or a 30-minute aqua-aerobics class. It is open to everyone, of all ages and all exercise levels.

To promote the event and raise awareness of the difficulties faced by those who suffer with arthritis, a number of Dublin people have shared their stories of coping with the condition.

One such person is 29-year-old Alison Paisley, from Walkinstown, who was diagnosed with fibromyalgia at age 16.

She said that due to her condition, even the most basic tasks which others take for granted can be a trial for her.

“I can’t do the same things other people my age could do. Basic things like showering, washing, drying my hair drained me.

“Constant pain and discomfort wake me up constantly, never fully enjoying a deep, relaxed sleep.

“Some nights I get no sleep and some mornings can be very difficult as I’m so stiff and feel like I haven’t even gone to bed,” she said.

She went on to say that apar t from the physical effects, a condition like fibromyalgia takes a huge emotional toll, which leaves her with a feeling of guilt.

Aged 31, Peter Boyd, from Ballbriggan has also decided to share

his story to raise awareness of the condition.

He was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and rheumatoid ar thritis when he was 27.

He was working and living in Scotland and working as a personal trainer at the time.

A fter he was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and later with rheumatoid arthritis, he was forced to give up his job and move back home.

He described the difficulty faced by those living with a debilitating condition which does not show up on the surface.

“For a long time, I felt

trapped by my physical symptoms and beaten down by the emotional onslaught.

“It has been said that ‘in space no one can hear you scream’. Well, confronted by fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis, no matter how hard I screamed no one saw, understood or heard the pain, fatigue and exhaustion I was feeling,” he said.

He is now doing the micro-triathlon as part of his goal to become more active once again.

According to Arthritis Ireland, a cornerstone of its philosophy is “moving is the best

medicine”.

With this in mind, it has launched a unique initiative to engage the Irish public to get out and get active.

Another reason this i n i t i a t i ve h a s b e e n launched is the need to tackle the growing problem of obesity in Ireland.

According to figures from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Ireland is on course to become one of the most obese countries in Europe.

Figures show that 85% of Irish women will be overweight and 57% will be obese by 2030.

16 July 2015 Gazette 15

of coping with chronic conditions to promote three-stage charity event

awareness of arthritis

John Murray, RTE Radio One presenter and Arthritis Ireland volunteers Alison Paisley and Sinead Mc Guinness at the launch

Around 89% of Irish men will be classified as overweight, and 48% will be obese.

A study from the UK

by Dr Stephen Messier shows that for each pound of body weight

lost, there is a 4lb reduction in knee joint stress among overweight and obese people.

Researchers say the results indicate that even modest weight loss may significantly lighten the load on your joints, which is of great benefit for those who suffer with arthritis.

RTE Radio One presenter John Murray, has got on board to lend his support to the initiative.

“T his is a fantastic idea from Arthritis Ireland. I have been a strong advocate of the benefits of exercise for many years, and with the alarming statistics released from the WHO the micro-triathlon couldn’t come at a bet-

ter time.

“Ireland has to reverse the ticking time bomb of obesity and the micro-triathlon is the ideal goal to help us achieve this,” he said.

S t e p h a n i e C a s e y, head of community development at Arthritis Ireland said: “We know that exercise is the magic pill for arthritis and fibromyalgia.

But for many people living with chronic pain, even a short walk can be a huge challenge.

“We have designed our micro-triathlon to suit everyone, whether they have arthritis or simply want to get

fit over the summer months.

“We believe that everyone has the potential to be a micro-triathlete!”

Interested

Those interested can take part as an individual or as a team.

Registration is €30 for a team and €15 for an individual entry.

For more information log on to www.arthritisireland.ie/microtriathlon.

For more information on fibromyalgia and rheumatoid ar thritis visit: www.arthritisireland.ie.

Gazette

FEATURE

Home for cats sought The DSPCA has made an appeal to the people of Dublin to assist them in their attempts to re-home some of the 160 cats and kittens currently under their care.

One such cat is Allie, who came into the DSPCA over a month ago from Ballymun.

She was shot with a pellet gun and as a result of this coupled with a suspected related fall she seriously fractured her front left leg, which had to be amputated.

If you would like to know more about the cats and kittens looking for homes, would be interested in offering a temporary foster home or are not yet a monthly supporter, check out www.dspca.ie for details.

Gazette

16 Gazette 16 July 2015

dublinlife

FEATURE

New Companies Act 2014 analysed  Noreen Maguire Solicitor, Maguire Muldoon Solicitors, Clonskeagh, analyses the New Companies Act 2014, and its main points

Why did we need a new Companies Act? The new Act was nec-

essary because the previous legislation was cumbersome, having been

amended 30 times in 50 years.

The original company legislation was aimed at PLCs – more than 86% of companies in Ireland are private companies limited

by shares, and at long last they are centre stage.

What does it mean?

The 2014 Act, broadly speaking, has five different types of company, as

follows: 1. LTD – Limited company 2. DAC – Designated activity company 3. CLG – Company limited by guarantee (charities and clubs) 4. PLC – Public limited company 5. UC – Unlimited company Here, I am going to deal exclusively with points one and two, above.

DAC and LTD The DAC is the closest to our usual understanding of what a private limited company is. The DAC has a memorandum and articles of association with an objects clause and a minimum requirement of two directors.

The new animal is the LTD. The memo and arts are changed to a onedocument constitution – most importantly, there is no objects clause – so the old idea of a company acting outside its powers, “ultra vires”, is now removed.

A company can be treated like any individual: it can enter into a contract and do anything it wants to do, as long as it is legal.

The other big change is that the LTD can have a minimum of one direc-

tor, but it must also have a company secretary. In both the DAC and LTD, a majority written resolution can now be passed.

For both the DAC and the LTD, the company name must be changed to include “DAC” or “LTD”, as appropriate, so if you opt for the DAC-type company, this will have implications for your website, stationery, etc.

The LTD no longer has to hold a physical AGM – it can adopt a written AGM .

What do we have to do?

A private company needs to decide whether to convert to the new LTD-ty pe company, “opting-in” to the legislation and its rules and regulations. Alternatively, a company can choose to “opt out” and become a DAC. The DAC-type company will be more suitable for special purpose companies: joint venture companies and regulated financial institutions, or where the members of the company would prefer to limit the scope of the company’s powers.

The third option is to do nothing. Once the time limits pass, all private companies will then

automatically convert to an LTD regardless.

So, you may ask, am I better doing nothing?

You should make a decision. If you don’t opt in or opt out, you are effectively in breach of your director’s duties under the new legislation, and this can have implications for a director.

What are the deadlines?

June 1, 2015 – Commencement of Act. August 31, 2016 – Deadline for opting out and becoming a DAC. Hold your EGM, and if agreement is reached by ordinary resolution, fill out the documentation required by the CRO. November 30, 2016 – You have until this date to opt in and become an LTD. Draft your new constitution – hold EGM, pass special resolution, and lodge in the CRO. After November 30, 2016, technically you will be in breach of legislation, you will convert to LTD regardless.

In the meantime, you are governed by the rules attaching to a DAC. Finally, our advice: be proactive and decide – deadlines approach quickly, so put it in your diary for next January.

Solicitor Noreen Maguire: “The new Act was necessary because the previous legislation was cumbersome, having been amended 30 times in 50 years”

16 July 2015 Gazette 17

style P20

asdfsdaf P27 music P23

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



Gazette

health P19

Pets C’mon – give timon a great new home

Dara O Briain speaks at his BBC Science Club during The Festival of Curiosity

Dublin City: annual festival of science, art, design and technology

Ignite your curiosity  Keith Bellew

The Festival of Curiosity returns to Dublin from July 23 to 26 with a cultural feast of science, art, design and technology for all the family to enjoy.

Now in its third year, the festival will see Dublin City come alive with a free daytime family programme and a lively and curated nighttime programme.

During the day, the city will transform into a carnival of curiosities with lots of free family events including curious treasure trails, Lego building, rocket launches, shows and workshops where all ages can go on a city wide adventure in science, play and curious technology.

Step inside Smock Alley Theatre and experience the wonder of science

through an exciting carnival of handson workshops, adventures in electronics, interactive installations and games for all the family.

One daytime event which is sure to attract big crowds is Rawar! Digging for Dinosaurs: a palaeontology exhibition presented by world leading palaeontologist Jack Horner at The Round Room in The Mansion House on Friday, July 24 at 1pm.

By night the festival will light up Dublin City in a curated programme with a lively fusion of science, arts, culture and curious technology.

The Moon Cycle on Friday, July 24 promises to be one of the most interesting of the nighttime events, and is a must for stargazers.

Some of Ireland’s finest astronomers

will pack their telescopes and take participants on a nighttime sojourn through Dublin to Dunsink Observatory.

The party leaves from Smock Alley Theatre at 9pm and cycles for 45 minutes to Dunsink Observatory taking in the Phoenix Park on the way before bedding down for a picnic under the stars.

One of the highlights of this year’s festival is an event called, Ugly Animals: The Search for Dublin’s Minging Mascot, which will be held at The Mansion House on Thursday, July 23 at 7.30pm.

Based on the premise that cute animals get far too much attention, a selection of Dubliners will be championing a series of ugly endangered species, one

of which will be honoured with the title of Dublin’s Minging Mascot.

Both previous instalments of the festival were sell-outs with over 40,000 people visiting each year. Co-founder and creative director Ellen Byrne, said it was great to see a home-grown Dublin festival exploring science, arts and technology establish itself so quickly.

“We have a special theme this year about making memories, and inviting people, of all ages, to come out to play and to try new things - which sees our Curious Nights (adult programme) expand later into the night and the beginning of a new and exciting flagship #Grandpals programme,” she said.

For more information visit: www. festivalofcuriosity.ie

The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs.

Our Dog of the Week this week is Timon, a four-year-old male lurcher crossbreed.

Timon has been at Dogs Trust since 2013, and will require lots of time, love and commitment from his new owners.

He is a really playful fellow, both on his walks with his carers and in his kennel, keeping visitors to the centre entertained with his shenanigans! Timon is looking for a home with older children.

If you think you could offer Timon a loving 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.

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 16 July 2015

OUT&ABOUT

HEALTH

FURTHERPREPARATION FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO GET READY FOR THE ROAD IN CONFIDENCE

The cycle will be a challenging part of your triathlon – so be sure you’re bike-ready IT WILL always be more effective to have a professional carry out your adjustments for you, but in the meantime, see below some simple fitting tips that anyone can do at home on their triathlon bike.

These great tips come courtesy of Jimmy’s Bike shop, Malahide.

Shoe cleats: make sure the middle of the cleat is just behind the ball of your foot, and just ahead of the fifth metatarcel.

Also ensure the cleats point very slightly outward.

Saddle height: a quick test to ensure an approximate height is to sit on your saddle and place the heel of your foot on the base of the pedal, in this position your leg should be fully extended.

Saddle position: when sitting on the bike with your right foot clicked in and positioned at three o’clock, your knee should be 2.5-3cm ahead of the pedal axle.

A good tip is to use a plumb line to gauge

this distance correctly.

Arm angle: when in the optimum cycling position, your shoulder to elbow angle should be about 90 degrees – or slightly less for longer distances on the bike.

Arm pad position: again, in the optimum position, arm pads should rest on the base of your forearm and generally they should be as wide as your shoulder width.

So, the combination of these little adjustments can have a significant effect over a half Ironman distance of 90km. It will also improve your comfort and ability to stay on the bike for longer periods of time.

Look out next week for Gary Crossan’s tips on basic bike maintenance.

Vanguard Wetsuit – male €550 The Zerod Vanguard is an advanced triathlon wetsuit. It is constructed of high-quality Zerod Flex 395 neoprene, and has an SSS coating to reduce friction and drag.

Zoggs Predator Mirror €29 Super-soft silicone seal for ultimate comfort and fit with easy-adjust silicone strap for fantastic strength, comfort and durability.

Compressport Swim cap €6 Along with the official swim cap, try the new Compressport classic swim cap for extra warmth. It, too, is designed for comfort in the water.

Zerod ISuit Black & Orange €175 The iSuit will be your most important ally when competing at Half Ironman and Ironman. The use of technical fabrics such as “water wear weapon” and mesh makes it super light, breathable and very efficient.

Bodyglide Anti-Chafe €14.50 BodyGlide protects against chafing and rash and it makes wetsuit entry and exit easier and faster.

These products are all available from Base2Race, Unit 46, Fashion City, Ballymount, Dublin 24, which offers the following quick tips for swim gear and accessories: 1. Place your goggle strap just above the widest part of your head. If they move down during the swim, they will become more secure rather than

loosen.

2. Ensure your hands are lubricant-free before to putting on your goggles.

Sticky lubricant on goggles can impede your vision.

3. Wetsuits are expensive, so try and swim in your wetsuit before purchase.

Height and weight guides do not factor in body shape.

Triathletes will need to be at the top of their fitness when they take to the water at Scotsman’s Bay, Dun Laoghaire

IRONMAN: PART 1 OF 3 TO GUIDE YOUR TRAINING

Top tips to help your race go swimmingly  TRIATHLON IRELAND

YIKES! With just over five weeks to the start of Ironman Dublin 70.3 on August 9 and, with most of the training done, it’s time to start thinking about what the day involves.

This week, GazetteHealth talks to Gary Crossan of Triathlon Ireland about the swim section of the event. His helpful hints for first or umpteenth-time triathletes are set out below. Onwards to victory in Ironman Dublin 70.3!

Participants will begin with a 1.9km swim in Dun Laoghaire’s scenic Scotsman Bay. Gary Crossan says this is probably the event’s most intimidating element.

Most important, he says, is to be prepared by knowing what to expect.

Everyone must complete the one lap swim in under 70 minutes, otherwise they will not be permitted to complete the rest of the event. Every athlete

gets a wave to start in and these run over a period of 75 minutes. Positioning for the start, sighting and drafting – these are the key points to consider here.

A simple thing like positioning at the outset can have a huge bearing on how the rest of the day will go. If you get it right, it can go swimmingly!

But, get it wrong, and you can find yourself being punched, kicked and half drowned. This doesn’t make for a fun start to a long day.

The stronger, faster swimmers get themselves up front and at the centre of the wave. Weaker ones should be more to the back and side of each wave, so things are less crowded and you can avoid the melee which is part and parcel of triathlon swimming.

Next up for consideration, says Crossan, are sighting and navigation.

You may not have had to deal with these while

doing your weekly training in the pool.

Good sighting prevents zig zagging and wasting valuable energy needed for the bike and run sections that follow.

Before diving in, get your bearings – where the buoys are and, if possible, a landmark on the shore.

Having a landmark means you don’t have to sight as often, which effectively means less interruption to the rhythm of your stroke.

The word “drafting” is frowned on in the triathlon world, says Crossan, but only in the bike section. It is perfectly legal in the swim and is a great way to save energy while also improving speed.

It is all about being able to swim as closely as possible to the person in front without constantly hitting their feet. It takes skill and practice, but can be worked on in the remaining weeks of training.

Another point to consider when drafting is to

make sure you keep sight of where you’re going. Do not just blindly trust the person you are following, as they might be going the long way round!

Crossan maintains that the last part of the swim is where you can most definitely gain a few positions if you do it well – that is the exit.

On the final 100m of the swim, kick your legs very hard to get a bit of blood back up to the top of your body (as being horizontal for up to 30 minutes-plus can leave you dizzy if you stand up too suddenly).

So, kick like mad, swim until your hands can touch the seabed, stand up slowly and then, when you have your balance, run with high knees out of the water.

At this point you will start to unzip your wetsuit and make your way to your bike, where you will get set for the next section – the 90km cycle. More on that next week ...

16 July 2015 Gazette 19

GAZETTE

20 GAZETTE 16 July 2015

OUT&ABOUT

Three staple make-ups to help your summer look M&S Earrings €17

M&S Playsuit €35

I JUST love summer beauty products, including fresh floral fragrances, eye shadows in gun metal grey and some bright sheeny lips.

Here are three of my current favourites. You don’t need to overthink it – just a couple of key products will have you looking as fresh as a daisy in the morning ...

7.50 d Jacket €12 River Islan

 MIMI MURRAY

Urban Decay Revolution lipgloss €19

Jacket €80

Littlewoods Ireland Bag €45

on jumpsuit €22 Therapy Chiff

River Island

8

YSL Couture Mono No 15 Frasque €31

Littlewoods Irel and Jumpsuit €4

The Body Shop Italian Summer Fig parfum €29.95

16 July 2015 Gazette 21

Gazette

STYLE H&M Boots €149

1,469 Jumpsuit € Roksanda

6 Boohoo Striped blazer €2

Be A

 mimi murray

SEVENTIES fashion has been floating around all summer and is set to continue into autumn. While I’m not really a flares and funky floral prints kind of girl, I do love a bit of high-glam disco, and I’m sure Studio 54 would have been my spiritual home had I been born in the right decade and country.

Our Lust buy

Boohoo Striped trousers €34

Disco DIVA

Hey ho ....

In channeling my inner diva, I’ve picked some of the key items for a good old Donna Summer strut across the floor. There’s lots here to make you feel super sexy.

The black and red number, with some uber glam heels, will make an appearance at my next dressed-to-the-nines event – if I win the Lotto that is! We should be dancing ... yeah ...

M&S Dress €40

.99 €39

2 Alice + Olivia Floral trousers €42

ress

MD

H&

Gander for a look GRAPE & GANDER is a new luxury Irish sportswear brand designed for women who want to work out in comfort and style.

Co-founders Grace O’Rourke and Aoife Connolly from Dublin have created an exclusive three-piece collection featuring pants, sleeveless top and jacket.

The collection will officially launch on July 23 and will be available via www. g ra p e a n d g a n d e r. com.

r

de Gan & e p Gra et €95 a J ck

Gazette

22 Gazette 16 July 2015

OUT&ABOUT

FOOD&DRINK

The spaghetti vongole with cockles, mussels and clams was bursting with taste

Picky Eater PASTA and pizza are too often regarded as “the lazy options”, or lie nondescriptly on those “fusion” menus so beloved of Dublin diners these days.

Not so at Pizza Stop, where “ersatz” is stopped at the door and the genuine Italian experience awaits.

You could pass the restaurant by on Chatham Lane, off Grafton Street – and what a mistake that would be.

Picky and friend met midweek for a quick bite before a gig. As oregano, yeast and vino tinto perfumed the air, we perused the familiar menu, happy amid the red gingham tablecloths and kitchen bustle.

Skipping the antipasti on display (a large cured ham, grilled courgettes and other sundries), we went for a shared tomato and mozzarella bruschetta and a plate of meats from the menu.

The former were the right combination of juicy and dry; the latter moist and tasty.

A glass of house red (each) helped the lot go down nicely. We were

ready for our main dish.

Picky’s pal toyed with the idea of roast suckling pig, but a night of music and beer beckoned so he turned instead to a good old-fashioned pizza with all the trimmings.

A basic margharita was piled high with olives, anchovies, more cheese, pepperoni and peppers.

It emerged fragrant, crisp and even, not buckling remotely under the weight of extra toppings.

Picky went for the spaghetti vongole with cockles, mussels and clams.

A liberal sprinking of black pepper and parmesan (yes, yes, we know you shouldn’t) delivered taste even towards the last mouthful.

The spaghetti was deliciously al dente, and reminded us of Roman holidays: sun, sea and the taste of salt. (It can do this

even in the depths of winter, bless it.)

The accompanying garlic bread and mixed salad were fresh and simple – ideal companions.

Replete and entering the digestive phase, Picky and friend concluded that there’s nothing like a good Italian meal and nothing better than good company to savour it with.

We rounded off our early supper with an inky espresso and Americano laced with sugar.

It can be a tight squeeze in Pizza Stop, and sometimes you can feel a little too close to your neighbouring diners for comfort. But the more you tuck in, the less of a problem this seems to be.

Our bill came to around €50 all in. For cheap, cheerful, tasty and atmospheric fare, you just can’t beat Pizza Stop.

Conclusion SOME may find the venue a bit of a squeeze, but the food on offer at Pizza Stop (at 6/10 Chatham House, Chatham Lane, Dublin 2; tel 01 679 6712) makes it worth dropping into. It doesn’t needlessly tinker with old staples, delivering instead truly tasty fare.

16 July 2015 GAZETTE 23

ALBUM: HOW BIG, HOW BLUE, HOW BEAUTIFUL

Florence learns to live and love in the world  COLM MURRAY

FRESH from her headlining slot at last month’s Glastonbury festival, Florence and her cohorts, The Machine, return with album number three.

For Florence Welch, the success of her first two Florence and the Machine albums Lungs (2009 – Album of the year, Brit Awards 2010) and Ceremonials (2011) meant five years of back-to-back recording, promoting and touring. Lungs ran straight into the making, promoting and touring of the Grammy-nominated Ceremonials, an album written while on the road and recorded straight after coming off tour. The shows were getting bigger, the hair redder, and the success wider and wilder.

A pop star at 21, with two international hit albums behind her, Florence discovered that in giving seven years to her music, some elements of real life had been left by the wayside. Coming back from tour and moving out of her mother’s Camberwell home, Florence reengaged with normal life: going out, falling in and out of love, and simply trying to learn how to look after herself outside of the hermetic bubble of life of the road.

“It was sort of a crash landing.” Florence freely admits.

“I guess although I’ve always dealt in fantasy and metaphor when I came

to writing that meant the songs this time were dealing much more in reality.

Ceremonials was so fixated on death and water, and the idea of escape or transcendence through death, but the new album became about trying to learn how to live, and how to love in the world rather than trying to escape from it.”

And so the new Florence, and her songs, started to swim into focus.

The result is How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful, a collection of songs, written and recorded over the course of 2014.

Produced by Markus Dravs (Björk, Arcade Fire, Coldplay) the third album

by Florence is live-sounding, tune-rich, unhinged in all the right places and powerful in all the best ways. In voice and, ultimately, outlook, Florence has never sounded better. Anthemic hooks and bombastic orchestras are the foundations for the album as her vocal theatrics take the songs to the next level.

A prime example is the future Florence classic Ship To Wreck: it opens the album, and showcas-

es Florence and Dravs’s enthusiasm for reframing her distinctive voice.

The music is not unlike upbeat Cure hits from the 1990s – all polished and tight with catchy hooks.

The dynamics then shift with the first single What Kind of Man, topped off with brass section by lifting and building the momentum throughout.

The themes of love lost and breakups display world weariness from Florence who recalls the fights, drunken night and blissful moments of sadly defunct relationships.

Elsewhere, on Various Storms and Saints, the delivery is stunning, with dusty guitar and occasional keyboard humming accompanying Welch for the first two minutes or so, letting focus fall on Welch’s voice. It’s this restraint which is in contrast to the directness of the first two albums which Florence has learnt to harness. Third Eye is one of her most complete songs as Welch swaps between an uplifting chorus, and verses filled with her roaring near spoken word declarations with the horn section highlighting Welch’s wail of “You are flesh and blood!

And you deserve to be loved!”

An album full of shimmering tunes cl o s e s w i t h t h e uplifting and rocking Mother, leaving us in no doubt there is still a lot more to come from this formidable artist.

Florence and The Machine are set to headline this year’s Electric Picnic

GAZETTE

MUSIC

Gazette

24 Gazette 16 July 2015

OUT&ABOUT

mayo: cong’s most famous ‘son’ is just one attraction

A relaxing break that even The Quiet Man would praise  mimi murray

IN THE early 1950s, an American screen legend came to County Mayo to make one of the most famous movies ever made on these shores.

The Quiet Man starred John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara and was set in the stunning village of Cong on the Mayo/Galway border.

This movie has effectively kept the village going for the past 65 years with a strong tourism industry growing out

of the movie, with Quiet Man tours taking place in the village every day, and busloads of tourists stopping to pay homage at all the film’s famous locations.

Cong is also known as the location for one of Ireland’s most renowned castles/hotels, Ashford.

Ashford Castle may not be within a lot of people’s budgets, but the lodge is.

Situated within the 350acre estate, The Lodge at Ashford Castle overlooks beautiful Lough Corrib.

It was originally built in

1865.

We arrived in Cong on a grand, soft day – translation: grey and wet, but as we all know in Ireland, it doesn’t take long for dull weather to move off in another direction, and we were able to ramble around the estate and take in all the lush scenery and magnificent countryside.

My other half was determined to teach our young son how to skim stones, and what better place than Lough Corrib: a serene lake, with the only thing breaking the

silence being a fisherman tinkering at his boat.

After plenty of fresh air, it was back to Wilde’s restaurant for dinner. This place is more on the side of fine dining, so probably not the best place for our almost three-year-old, but there is a bar serving food, which is probably better with young kids.

However, they do have a really adventurous menu for kids in Wilde’s, which impressed us.

Our meal was to be filled with lots of little surprises. Between all

courses there are small plates, selected by the chef and brought to the table, which allows you to sample so much more of this great chef’s cooking.

For starters I went for Johnny’s King Crab with mango and euchalyptus, sea urchin and coriander, while hubby went for pan-seared scallops with bacon, truffle, honey and apple.

My main was wild turbot with monks beard, leek and grape, while my other half went for venison.

Ashford Castle’s Wilde’s restaurant offers a great view over Lough Corrib, complementing the fine fare

I was impressed by the presentation and attention to detail, and the flavours married well together.

Our family suite was perfect, with lots of space for our son to run around, and we all got a great night’s sleep after a busy day of travelling and sight-

seeing.

If you plan a trip to Mayo, or are a Quiet Man fan, Cong is not to be missed and the Lodge is a great base.

For further information on Cong, see www. congtourism.com, and for the Lodge at Ashford, see www.thelodgeac.com.

16 July 2015 gazette 25

America: the perfect adventure destination

Gazette

TRAVEL fastTRAVEL

The best of culture, food and scenery Located in the south-west region of India, Kerala offers honeymooners the best of culture, food and scenery on their romantic getaway.

Unwind and allow all of your wedding nerves to float away in this destination, which boasts postcard-perfect beaches, shady coconut groves and lush paddy fields.

With GoHop.ie, you can spend 14 nights in Kerala in five different resorts from €2,280pp from October to April. Spend two nights in the Old Harbour Hotel in Kochi, two nights in the Windermere Estate in

There’s a lot more to this vibrant city than meets the eye

You should want to leave for Las Vegas  ian begley

With 10,000 Irish fans making the trip to Vegas to see Conor McGregor take on Chad Mendes last week, we take a look at some of the things Irish fans could expect to do on a trip to Sin City.

Famous around the globe for its world-class entertainment and casinos, there’s a lot more to this vibrant city than meets the eye. From incredible shops to fantastic scenery, you won’t be stuck for things to do in and around Las Vegas.

American Holidays has compiled a list of the most exciting activities and excursions to ensure you have a great trip.

1. Check out the incredible free water display at the Bellagio Fountains.

Water shoots up to 460ft in the air, perfectly choreographed to the tunes of Frank Sinatra and Gene Kelly. The Fountains of Bellagio were destined to

romance your senses.

Take in a complimentary Las Vegas show of water, music and light thoughtfully interwoven to mesmerise its admirers.

2. Find out all there is to know about America’s most famous criminals, such as Al Capone, and learn about the origins of the FBI at the interactive Mob Museum.

The museum provides a world-class, interactive journey through true stories. From the birth of the mob, to today’s headlines. Whether you like it or not, this is American history.

3. Experience the immense beauty of the Grand Canyon on a helicopter tour. Be wowed by the canyon’s breathtaking canyon which stretches as far as the eye can see. Enjoy the scenery of all the rims of the canyon where you can see the Colorado River, lush forests of the Grand

Canyon National Park, as well as the high deserts of the West Rim. 4. Built in 1931, the Hoover Dam draws millions of visitors each year and The Hoover Dam Tour offers a unique way to see, learn and appreciate what Hoover Dam is all about. This tour offers guided exploration into lesser known parts of the dam.

5. For a truly life-changing experience and adrenaline rush like no other, complete your visit to Las Vegas with a tandem skydive. Take in the stunning views of Mount Charleston and the strip as you free fall for 60 seconds.

6. Venture into the desolate and abandoned Area 51, journey along the infamous extra-terrestrial highland and learn about legends of aliens and UFOs on a special tour.

7. Shop til you drop on the Las Vegas strip. You’ll find everything from highend designer boutiques to

fun souvenir stores.

With the vast quantity of things to do in Las Vegas, you can spend six nights in the Stratosphere Hotel and Casino from €689pp in August.

For those looking to travel during the winter you can spend five nights in the Excalibur Hotel and Casino from €695pp in December.

If those who want two holidays in one, you can spend three nights in the Doubletree Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas and seven nights in the all-inclusive Occidental Grand Xcaret in Mexico, from €1,579pp during the month of November.

Or for a thorough American experience spend four nights at the Circus Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas and three nights in the Ramada New York/Eastside in New York from €815pp.

For more information on these deals, visit www. americanholidays.com.

Munnar, two nights in Cardamom County in Kerala, two nights in Backwater Ripples in Kumarakom, one night in Lakes and Lagoons in Alappuzha, and five nights in The Leela Kovalam in Kovalam.

Highlights on this tour include soaking up the picturesque port town of Kochi, exploring the tea plantations and pristine valleys of Munnar, gliding along the Kumarakom backwaters and relaxing on the golden beaches of idyllic Kovalam.

To find out more about this offer, visit www.gohop.ie.

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 16 July 2015

SWORDSCLASSIFIEDS IMPROVEMENTS

IMPROVEMENTS

SUPPORT

€4750 €1650

CLEANING LANDSCAPE

FOLLOW US TODAY ON OUR SOCIAL NETWORK

Visit: Facebook: www.facebook.com/ DublinGazetteNewspapers Twitter: @DublinGazette

ACCESS ROOFING & BUILDING PAVING

DVD TRANSFERS Video & Camera Tapes CineFilms Photos & Slides converted to DVD Music & Titles added

The Goddress,

WE SPECIALISE IN ALL TYPES OF ROOFING

ALL BUDGET DRIVEWAYS

Dress Hire & Sales Dunshaughlin Village, Meath Call For Appointment 0872919604 / 0851961268 facebook.com/ TheGoddress

CITY PAVING AND LANDSCAPING Dublin – Meath- Kildare – Wicklow Offices in Santry and Stillorgan

All our work is guaranteed for 7 years.

Recommended by Kilsaran Concrete

We Specialise in new installations, maintenance, repair and rejuvenation of: Driveways – Patios – Paths – Walls – Canopies View our gallery at www.citypaving.ie Email us: info@citypaving.ie Phone: 01 8427512/01 2884280 Mobile:087 2577720

• Driveways • Patios • Concrete Imprint • Decoration Walling • Fencing Natural & Coloured Stone PH: 0873900300 / 01 6971796 www.allbudgetdriveways.com allbudgetdriveways@yahoo.com Malahide Rd & Kimmage Rd

UP TO 45% OFF

SELECT PAVING & LANDSCAPING

FOR ALL YOUR PAVING & LANDSCAPING SOLUTIONS Serving The Greater Dublin Area

UP TO 45% OFF

Full range of services - Cobblelock, Driveways, Patios, Slabbing & gravelling.

Imprint concrete, decorative walling and fencing.

Fully registered and insured company STAR DISCOUNTS for this month All work guaranteed No 2 Fairview Strand, Dublin 3 www.selectpaving.ie Call today for a free E: selectpaving@hotmail.com no obligation quotation 0858335596 / 01 685 6262

• New Roofs • Roof repairs & maintenance • Roofs latted & felted • Torch and felt specialists • Slating ROOF • Also, Gutters cleared, REPAIRS repaired & replaced • Chimney work, repaired, FROM €80 replaced & pots replaced • Velux Windows • UPVC Facias & Soffit Supplied & Fitted • Garden Sheds • All building work carried out.

SCHOOL

MATTERS PROMOTE YOUR EVENTS

ALL AREAS COVERED / FULLY INSURED

Call Northside office: 01 5134071 Southside: 01 5134098 Emergency: 085 217 0693

GOT A PHOTO? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 2 or email news@dublingazette.com

CONTACT US WITH YOUR NEWS

6010240

16 July 2015 SWORDS GAZETTE 27

SWORDSCLASSIFIEDS ABC CERTIFIED 51,340 COPIES EACH WEEK (ABC: Group MFD, March- April 2014).

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 01 60 10 240 RECRUITMENT

SUPPORT

LOCAL BUSINESS



SHOP LOCALLY

SALES AGENTS throughout Dublin area required for exciting new Water Softening Product.

 Generous commission paid and full training given to suitable candidates.  Good appearance, enthusiastic and excellent communication skills required.

May suit retired or part time workers.

CVs to paulinebrady28@icloud.com

SPECIAL OFFERS House rewire €2000 Extra Sockets €35 Fuseboard €250

EST. 1985

UNBEATABLE PRICES

Best Prices Periodic Testing 20% Discount with this ad Call for FREE Estimate

Ph: 01 6208992 or 087 2760894 Email: rightsparks@gmail.com

MADE FROM 2" HEAVY GAUGE BOX IRON For more info contact Pat Mob: 087 275 2175 Tel: (042) 966 3222

30% OFF ALL WORK IN JUNE/JULY

LEGAL & PLANNING APPLICATION

ANNOUNCEMENT

· Standard rate €75 + VAT · Payment in advance

60 10 240

CLOTHES LINES

ACTIVE PAVING

We can now officially accept planning & legal notices from all four County Councils in greater Dublin region · Dublin City · Dun Laoghaire South Dublin · Fingal

CALL THE GAZETTE ON

AEC Electrical

Ph. 01 601 0255

O’Brien & Sons

Landscaping and Building Services • All types of trees pruned and trimmed • Over 20 years experience

All work Guaranteed before the winter and the rain!

Do you have rotting wood fascias & soffit?

Rotting or broken gutters?

FREE QUOTES

UPVC Fascia's Soffits - Supplied & Fitted All colours available Seamless Aluminium Guttering - Supplies & fitted We are registered for vat & fully insured. Good rates and work guaranteed.

Call Darren 087 680 3058

• All paving of patio slabs covered • Walls / Fencing - built and rebuilt • Raised beds and Roll out lawns • Hedges trimmed and shaped • Natural and Pebble Stones • Bark, Mulch supplies and laid  ALL areas covered  FREE estimates Call Charlie on 086 4078174 / 01 8483003

Gazette

28 Gazette 16 July 2015

SPORT Patterson all set for Euro debut

FastSport

softball: stillorgan called into ireland’s first slowpitch side

McGee back in irish davis cup tennis team:

CASTLEKNOCK’S James McGee will lead Ireland’s Davis Cup team to face South Africa in the Davis Cup by BNP Paribas Euro/Africa Zone Group II relegation play-off.

The Irish number one will be backed up

by Sam Barry and they will be joined by doubles specialists James Cluskey, from Swords, and David O’Hare for the tie which takes place at the Irene Country Club in Centurion, South Africa from July 17 to 19.

The Irish Davis Cup captain Conor Niland said: “I am very pleased to announce a strong team for this tie against South Africa.

It is great to have James McGee back in the squad and we are excited at the opportunity to play in South Africa.”

Ireland lost both their previous outings against the South Africans and need a win to avoid dropping into Europe Zone Group III for the first time since 2007.

 sport@dublingazette.com

THE inaugural women’s Irish National Fastpitch Softball Team will be competing in its first international championship at the European Softball Federation’s 2015 European Championships in Rosmalen, Holland on July 19 to 25.

Following the recent announcement by Softball Ireland, Ireland will be anchored by longtime Stillorgan resident, Jennifer Patterson (nee Bohan). She grew up in Lakelands and currently resides in Coolnevaun with her husband, daughter, and pets.

Patterson has qualified from an extensive

panel of players that will form the first ever women’s national team.

“To represent Ireland again is a great honour and one that I had hoped to do again.

So, to compete on an Irish Team that is brand new… it’s all the better,” she said. “This team has an opportunity to establish a benchmark for future teams to challenge. It will also provide the foundations for several young women and girls to participate in softball for years to come.”

She credits her love of sport to the success she had whilst playing hockey and rounders in the fields of Lakelands.

She and the teams from the estate had won

a number of All-Ireland championships in their respective age brackets.

Patterson began playing softball in the mid 1990s, and was selected to represent Ireland in the European Coed Slowpitch Championships in 2000 and 2004, in Maynooth and Linz, Austria respectively.

Those Ireland teams earned bronze and silver medals in their respective years. Patterson has followed those selections, with three national titles with her club, the Oddsox Greens.

She is also a core member of one of the most successful teams in the UK. Her team there, H2O Heroes, has won the national soft-

Jenny Patterson in action

ball league four times and garnered three silver medals in the British National Championships.

She has travelled to the USA, London, Jersey and Czech Republic to compete in further high profile championships.

The 2015 ESF European Championships is the most prestigious competition in Europe for this format of softball, the majority format played on the continent. It is also the largest development focus for the European Softball Federation (ESF) across many delegations within the breadth of

Europe. The ESF hold similar championships for men, and a number of age bracketed events across several divisions for both girls and boys youths.

With the selections now made for this initial Women’s Irish National Team, Team Ireland has been training regularly, both midweek and on weekends. They also took part in a tournament in Belfast, competing against teams of men and women, where the Irish ladies finished as runners up.

Although this is Team Ireland’s initial foray into women’s fastpitch softball, the team has

lofty aspirations. This year’s team is looking to achieve both a European and world ranking.

It is hoped that they can achieve a ranking in the top 15 in Europe, while its standings globally will depend on results elsewhere. Softball Ireland has already negotiated an at large bid to compete in Canada at the 2016 Women’s World Championships.

For Patterson, her involvement is also a family affair as her husband, Stephen, who is originally from the United States, acts an assistant coach for the team.

Four Dubliners called into Irish women’s hockey team  sport@dublingazette.com

Kate Lloyd is one of four Dubliners to join up with the Irish senior women’s hockey team. Picture: Adrian Boehm

FOUR Dubliners have been added to the Irish senior women’s hockey team panel for the EuroHockey Championship II in Prague as part of seven changes to the panel made by new coach Graham Shaw.

Shaw took over as head coach from Darren Smith in the wake of last month’s World League Round 3 in Valencia when 2016 Olympic hopes were dashed.

In the intervening fortnight, Railway Union’s Kate Dillon and Emma Smyth both

announced their retirements while UCD’s Nikki Evans is recovering from a broken jaw sustained against South Africa.

With Anna O’Flanagan, Lizzie Colvin, Aine Connery and Emma Gray unavailable too, it leaves Ireland shy half a dozen players with over a century of caps.

In their absence, opportunity knocks for a series of newcomers to stake their claim for a place in the side. Ards’ Kerri McDonald is the sole debutante while Railway’s Kate Lloyd has only two games under her belt

and is in line for a maiden tournament She comes into the panel along with UCD duo Deirdre Duke and Emily Beatty while Pembroke goalkeeper Stella Davis comes in as number two goalkeeper and Ayeisha McFerran will likely be the number one in Gray’s absence. Naomi Carroll is the other incoming player to the panel.

Speaking about the selection, Shaw said: “The objective of this tournament is a top two finish to secure promotion back to A Division.

“This is very important for this squad and the path we want to take.

“The squad selected has flexibility with multiple players able to operate in more than one position and physically fit to cope with the heat in Prague.”

Ireland - currently ranked 14th in the world - are drawn in Pool A with Czech Republic (world rank 35), Ukraine (26) and France (24) for the competition which starts on July 18.

The latter two sides have both been comfortably beaten by Ireland in the past year.

16 July 2015 swords gazette 29

Gazette

Two out of three ain’t bad for Dublin clubs

FastSport

Both Shamrock Rovers and UCD made it through to the second round of the Europa League qualifying stages with wins over opposition from Luxembourg in the past week Dozen Dubs named in  nathan kelly

sport@dublingazette.com

FOR the neutrals, it was a case of two out of three ain’t bad for Dublin’s League of Ireland sides in Europe last week with UCD and Shamrock Rovers advancing to the second qualifying round of the Europa League.

Obviously, St Patrick’s Athletic fans will be disappointed after the Saints were booted out of Europe by Skonto Riga after a 2-0 defeat in Richmond Park last Thursday resulted in a 4-1 win for the Latvian side on aggregate.

But, for Rovers and UCD, the glamour of European football is set to last a little bit longer at least.

Rovers followed up

their 0-0 first leg draw against Progres Niederkorn in Luxembourg with an emphatic 3-0 win in Tallaght last Tuesday night.

Dave Webster scored his first goal for the Hoops while a Marty Waters double secured Pat Fenlon’s side route to the next round where they will face Odds Ballklub of Norway.

Speaking af ter his brilliant brace in the second leg last week, Waters praised the work ethic of his Tallaght teammates.

“From the first minute, we worked hard,” he said. “We came out in the second half and we started well, which had been our downfall in the last two or three games.

But we started both halves well, and we were

well on top. We got the result we wanted.”

Rovers famously reached the group stages of the competition in 2011 and the flying winger is aiming for a similar story this season.

“It would be amazing, going from watching some of the games to playing some of the games.

“But we’ll take the next games as they come. We’ll see how we can do,” he added.

With the second qualifying round due to begin this Thursday, Waters insisted he and his teammates had no time to rest on their laurels.

“You have no time to think, so we’re straight into training, and we’ll hopefully, hopefully, get

UCD will be hoping they can add to their excellent opening round victory when they take on Slovakia’s Slovan Bratislava. Picture: Ed Scannell

a result over there.”

The first leg of Rovers’ second qualification round tie against Odds Ballklub is in Tallaght Stadium this Thursday, July 16, at 8pm, with the return leg in Norway a week later.

Collie O’Neill’s stud e n t s p r ov i d e d t h e

advantage and on 43 minutes Joel Pedro levelled things up with a brilliant effort from 20 yards.

O’Neill must have been just thinking about getting his side in level at this point and drilling instructions into them for the second half but

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

‘It would be amazing to go from watching the [Europa League] games to playing in them’ - Marty Waters

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

shock of the night when they beat F91 Dudelange, also of Luxembourg, in their first leg two weeks ago thanks to a great finish from Ryan Swan.

The second leg was played in Dudelange last Thursday and while Shamrock Rovers struggled to play in the Luxembourg heat, the Students took the lead once again when their matchwinner a week earlier, Swan, headed past Joubert after Jamie Doyle had f licked on Mark Langtry’s throw-in.

The game was turned on its head on 28 minutes when UCD’s leftback Sean Coyne was shown a straight red card for a lunging tackle on Kevin Nakache.

It wasn’t long before the hosts began to use their extra man to their

Dudelange had other ideas.

Three minutes into injury time, Nakache headed in a long-throw from Da Mota to leave it 2-1 on the night, and 2-2 on aggregate but with UCD still ahead on away goals.

Despite an onslaught on Niall Corbet’s goal in the second half, the 20-year-old keeper dealt with absolutely everything, turning in a heroic performance which inspired the other nine UCD men on the pitch as they held on to book their path in the next round.

T he Students will travel to Slovakia to take on Slovan Bratislava this Thursday in their second qualification round first leg before the return leg in Belfield next Thursday, July 23.

Irish rugby Sevens panel TWELVE Dublin-based players will be looking to help the Ireland women’s and men’s sevens rugby teams keep their 2016 Olympic dreams alive as the squads for this weekend’s Rugby Europe Olympic Repechage tournament in Lisbon are named.

The women’s side features a high volume of Dubliners with Railway Union’s Emma Murphy and Stacey Flood, Old Belvedere’s Hannah Tyrrell, pictured above, and Jenny Murphy and Blackrock’S Katie Fitzhenry in the panel.

They are in an initial group with Belgium, Romania and Ukraine in their 12-team competition.

The men have seven Dublin-based players including UCD’s Adam Byrne and Harry McNulty, Lansdowne’s Tom Daly, Ian Fitzpatrick and Mark Roche along with St Mary’s College’s Steve Toal-Lennon and Terry Kennedy. Their pool sees them up against Georgia, Italy and Russia.

Both teams must finish in the top three in Portugal to qualify for next year’s World Olympic Repechage, which will determine the final teams to travel to Rio 2016.

Speaking ahead of the tournaments, Anthony Eddy, IRFU director of Rugby Sevens, said: “Both squads have developed well and this weekend will be a real test as they face up to some of the best teams in Europe.

“This tournament is arguably the most important one of the season so far for both teams, and with a place at the World Olympic Repechage the prize for a top three finish I am sure they will give everything they have.”

Women’s captain Lucy Mulhall commented: “We have been training well and made steady progress this season, so we hope to put all that work into practice this weekend as we target a spot at next year’s World Olympic Repechage, where we hope to compete for a place at Rio 2016.”

Men’s skipper Tom Daly added: “This is a great opportunity for us to measure ourselves against some of the best Sevens teams in Europe. We are an ambitious team and our preparation, training and tournament experience to date have been great.”

Gazette

30 SWORDS gazette 16 July 2015

SPORT

fastSport

athletics: fingallians run up series of national medals

Malahide big winners in Dublin tennis leagues MALAHIDE Lawn Tennis and Croquet club achieved a unique milestone when their men’s and ladies first teams won Class 1 of the Dublin Lawn Tennis Council summer league.

Success was also achieved by the men’s fifth team who won Class 5 of the league.

The Class 1 achievement is noteworthy as Summer League at this level is the pinnacle of inter club tennis competition in Ireland.

The club has also completed the development of two new tennis courts and three mini/midi tennis courts for juniors in recent times.

Pictured are the team captains of the three winning teams complete with trophies, from left, Steve MacNicholas (men’s fifth), Karen Nugent (ladies first) and Stephen Nugent (men’s first).

Malahide win Community chess title MALAHIDE claimed the Leinster Community Games Under-13 chess tournament last week to add to their Dublin crown.

They accounted for Wicklow and Kildare en route to the semi-final played in Patrician College, Newbridge. Duleek (Meath) were the semi-final opponents.

An early win by Isaac Flynn with Aisling Ni Laighleis soon making it 2-0 put Malahide in a commanding position. William Hackett added the third win to snatch the match.

Captain Finn Ellingboe agreed a draw to give Malahide a 3.5 to 1.5 points overall win.

Malahide now faced The Downs (Westmeath) in the final and very quickly established a 2-0 lead, again with Flynn and Ni Laighleas setting the pace.

The Downs were given a ray of hope when Hackett overlooked his opponent’s stalemate opportunity.

James Kavanagh, however, re-established Malahide’s superiority to score the winning point.

With the match secured, Ellingboe again agreed a draw, giving Malahide an overall 4-1 victory.

Anne-Marie Torsney won both the national Under-19 shot putt and discus titles last weekend. Picture: Sam Barnes

Torsney wins double gold  sport@dublingazette.com

FINGALLIANS’ AnneMarie Torsney produced a superb series of throws as she claimed the GloHealth National Juvenile Championship Under19 shot putt and discus titles in Tullamore last weekend.

Her winning distance in the shot putt was 11.85m, well clear of Nenagh’s Derbhile Ryan in second place as she produced a remarkably consistent series of throws. All five of her legitimate throws cleared the 11m, mark, enough to win the competition, with

her best effort coming in round three.

A day earlier, Torsney won the one kg discus title with almost 10m to spare over Finn Valley’s Jade Leeper. All five of her legal efforts were enough to win the title once again and she saved her best for the fourth series when she landed a distance of 42.82m.

She narrowly missed out on adding to those gold medals with a pair of fourth places in the javelin and hammer respectively. Club mate Jake McNicholl did likewise in the boys’ hammer competition, his throw of

pitch and putt Ward adds senior title to long list of accolades geraldine Ward from Portmarnock, the most decorated winner in Dublin pitch and putt, collected another county title after a six-shot win over RGSC Siobhan Keely in the senior final last week at Lucan.

Ward, pictured third from left with the other winners at the event, shot an excellent -9 for 36 holes.

There was also success on the men’s side for the club at inter level as Tom Brady finished third.

48.05m enough to finish with a fourth place spot, too.

Jake Robinson, however, was another club member to land a medal when he picked up silver in the Under-18 hammer with an excellent 48.97m effort.

Fins’ Ciaran McManus came third in the Under15 200m final. He won his heat in the morning before running the final in 24.35 seconds, coming in behind Leevale’s Conor Morey in the race for gold.

Pascal Ryan reached the final of the Under-16 boys 100m and ended up

in seventh place overall in his very first shot at the national stage.

I n t h e U n d e r-16 boys’ hammer, Darragh Groome ended up sixth overall. Ciara Markey was 11th in the Under-13 javelin final.

Ava Keogh earned a silver medal in the Under12 60m race when she crossed in 8.49 seconds, ending up just 0.08 of a second behind Midleton’s Queen Taminowo.

A week earlier, on the first day of the national juvenile competition, Keogh took on a sizeable long jump field with 17 entrants.

She produced a fantastic jump of 4.36m to take the silver medal and set a new personal best at the same time.

At junior and Under23 level, Fingallians had three athletes competing. Bronwyn Keogh ran in the junior 100m and 200m and performed excellently in the heats to make the finals in both.

Although outside the medals on this occasion, all four runs were solid and consistent.

Sarah Murray competed in the Under-23 100m and 200m finals, winning the former and coming second in the latter.

16 July 2015 SWORDS gazette 31

Gazette

Top honour

Rowe named player of the month for June

Club Noticeboard fingallians

Clann Mhuire’s Carla Rowe was

named the Croke Park Hotel Player of the Month Award for June following her outstanding performances for the Dublin Under-21 side in their All-Ireland victory.

She is pictured with Alan Smullen, general manager, Croke Park Hotel at the presentation earlier this week.

PREPARATIONS are well under way

bition game at the TG4 senior ladies

for the visit of the GAA President to

Leinster final at Dr Cullen Park, Carlow

Fingallians on Saturday, July 25. An

on Sunday, July 19 at 4pm.

tUachtaran will officially reopen our state of the art all-weather pitch.

We will require all our members, young and old to be present on the

Picture: Piaras O’Midheach/Sportsfile

football: north county to the fore in Jackies panel

Best of luck to our own Sinead, Fiona, Emer, Niamh and all the Dublin ladies who will be defending their Leinster title against Westmeath.

morning from 9.30am. This is a great

The U-10 Friday puck around contin-

honour for the club and all members

ues through the summer in Balheary

past and present are very welcome.

each Friday at 6.30pm. All kids, par-

Last week we hosted a most suc-

ents, brothers and sisters are most

cessful football camp with over 200

welcome. Please contact klawton1@

participants. A big thank you to Dublin

hotmail.com for further information.

footballers Micheal Darragh Macauley

Our U-7, U-8, U-9 summer hurling

and James McCarthy who paid a visit

continues again this week in Balheary

on Dublin day to the camp.

at 6.45pm.

This week is the turn of hurling with

Congratulations to Paul and the

places still available (€50 to members

Dublin squad as they added a 54th

and €70 to non-members). It was great

Leinster crown to their league title.

start to the hurling week with a big

Ticket applications can now be made at

win for the Senior Dublin hurlers over

the club bar for the All-Ireland quarter

Limerick in the championship. They

final; further details to follow.

are now rewarded with an All-Ireland quarter final v Waterford.

Each Friday from 8pm, social football is played on the new all-weather

The junior D championship semi-

pitch. New players are very welcome.

final is on Thursday, July 16 versus St

Please come down at 7.45pm and ask

Jude’s away at 7.30pm. No date as yet

for Mark Butler.

for the intermediate B championship.

The quarterly visit of the mobile

Good luck to Ava Taylor from our

bloodbank will happen this Wednesday

U-12 girls who will represent Fins while

and Thursday at 3–5pm and 7–9pm

playing for Dublin in the half time exhi-

each evening.

st finian’s Dublin captain Lyndsey Davey has been in superb form since taking on the armband

Lay-off no issue for McGonigle’s Dublin  nathan kelly sport@dublingazette.com

NO FEWER than 10 north county footballers could be involved when Dublin ladies senior footballers take on Westmeath in this Sunday’s TG4 Leinster Championship final in Dr Cullen Park.

Fingallians have four players in the panel for the provincial decider through Emer Ni Eafa, Niamh Rickard, Fiona Hudson and Sinead Finnegan. St Sylvester’s are represented through N i c o l e O we n s a n d Niamh McEvoy, while St Maur’s, St Margaret’s,

Clann Mhuire and Skerries Harps all have one player each; Olivia Leonard, Muireann Ni Scanaill, Carla Rowe and Lyndsey Davey respectively.

Dublin booked their place in the final with 1-17 to 1-7 win over Laois in the semis in what was their first competitive senior fixture in nine weeks.

Speaking ahead of the final, Dublin boss Gregory McGonigle revealed how you manage to keep a side ticking through such a gap.

“Well we had the Under-21 side winning the All-Ireland final a couple of weeks and we’ve a

number of players still in that squad so they would have been kept going.

Having such a strong underage side benefits your senior team because it allows you to have very intense and competitive internal games.”

While Dublin are looking to win their 11th Leinster title, their opponents Westmeath are hoping to win their first provincial crown.

“They have come on a lot in the last couple of years,” said McGonigle.

“We watched them in the earlier rounds and they’re a very fit team and a very organised team.”

Skerries Harps star Davey is the Jackies’ captain, and was part of the team that lost to Cork in last year’s All-Ireland final. McGonigle commented on the North Dubliner’s stint as captain and how she could prove crucial on Sunday and for the rest of the summer.

“I think she has taken on the mantle brilliantly.

She’s really developed a strong relationship with the forward-line which has improved us as a team on the whole. She’s a player you want for these big games with her experience and we just hope she can continue her form.”

THE lotto jackpot was €3,900 and the

Congratulations to the Dublin

numbers drawn were 4, 11, 17 and 20.

senior footballers and hurlers on

There was no jackpot winner.

great wins over the weekend.

The winners of the €25 lucky dip

Two further camps take place

prizes were A Sandelana, Derek

later in the summer, starting on

Deegan, Joan O’Grady and Coco.

August 17 and 24.

Nex t week the jackpot will be €4,000.

This week saw the first of our

Places can be booked through our website homepage www.stfinians. com.

summer camps, the Kellogg’s Cul

Gift vouchers are available from

camp, which was attended by a big

the club shop if you are looking for

numbers of children.

the ideal birthday present for the

Despite some bad weather at the

GAA star in the family.

start of the week, it turned fine and

A full range of club tracksuits,

much fun was had by the children

shorts, shirts, socks, helmets and

and their coaches.

hurls are available and by giving

The advanced camp is on this week for boys and girls aged 13-17 years.

vouchers you are also supporting the club.

fingal ravens THE club would like to wish a speedy

Gaels away on Sunday in the league at

recovery to Luke Griffin who was

11am.

recently injured during a game.

There was no winner of this week’s

Congratulations to Mick and Deb-

draw. Numbers drawn were 14, 24, 25

bie White on the birth of their baby girl

and 36; €20 to Dappers, Susie Walsh

Ciara and to Padraig and Fiona Bren-

and D Duffy and Liam Lumley.

nan on the birth of their son Ollie.

Our juniors play St Sylvester’s in the junior D championship on Thursday, July 16 at 7.15pm in Rolestown.

Our Division 6 team play St James’s

Next week’s jackpot is €16,006. Good luck.

The club are now live on Twitter please follow @FingalRavensGFC for live match updates.

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

Throwing shapes: Fingallians Anne-Marie Torsney picks up pair of national field titles P30

july 16-22, 2015

European ambition: Shamrock Rovers and UCD pass Luxembourg tests P29

NAC’s Ellen Keane following her heat in the women’s 100m Breaststroke SB8 where she finished in a personal best time in Glasgow. Picture: Ian MacNicol/Sportsfile

Keane’s personal best

Former Aer Lingus member swims faster than ever before three times at the world championships in Glasgow but just misses out on podium  nathan kelly

sport@dublingazette.com

ELLEN Keane, formerly of Aer Lingus Swim Club, produced a number of lifetime bests at the Paralympic Swimming World Championships in Glasgow on Tuesday but ended up just shy of a medal in the 100m breaststroke final.

The Dubliner began her championships on Monday morning and recorded another personal best in her 100m backstroke heat with a time of 1.18.69.

The Beijing and London Paralympian subsequently swam faster than ever before in her preferred breaststroke event.

She completed her 100m breaststroke (SB 8

class) heat in 1.22.97, which left her first in the heat and shaved two hundredths of a second off the previous time she set at the London 2012 Paralympics.

Keane subsequently took almost another half a second off that later on Tuesday evening, recording a hugely impressive 1.22.50.

Having won her heat this morning Keane was hopeful of contesting a place on the podium but in an incredibly tightly fought race barely a second and a half separated silver from fifth as double Paralympic champion and world record holder Olesia Vladykina took gold in a new championship record of 1:17.47.

Speaking after the race Keane said: “Although I’m really pleased with my two PBs today I’m

disappointed with the result. I know I have more in me but it was just such a tough race and it just didn’t go my way. I’m already thinking of what I can do to improve and close that fine margin.”

Reflecting on the result, team manager Hayley Burke added: “That was such a tight contest there for Ellen.

“She’s swum three big personal bests in two days and it’s just a pity it wasn’t good enough for the podium.

“She can’t do any more than swim her fastest race and it really just did come down to the touch tonight and luck just wasn’t on her side.”

Team mate James Scully, with whom Keane swims with at the National Aquatic Centre’s high performance unit, started the champion-

ships for Ireland on Monday morning in the 50m backstroke S5 class and recorded a time of 45.18.

Thirteen-year-old Nicole Turner was another to shave time off her best with 1.48.07 to finish fifth in the 100m breastrstroke SB6 final that was won in world record time by fellow 13-year-old Tiffany Thomas Kane of Australia in 1.34.95.

These championships are a key milestone on the road to Rio 2016 Paralympic Games qualification.

Swimmers who win gold and silver in their events earn automatic qualification slots for their country. For the others the highest possible finish is vital as the remaining slots are allocated based on world rankings in 2016.