Swords 28 1 15

Gazette SWORDS

INSIDE: See our special Bride&Groom supplement

to help make your wedding day extra special Page 21

The Picky Eater: Union 8 breathes some gastronomic life into Dublin 8 Page 20

Day in the life: Lorna Collins

talks about the crucial role volunteers Page 16

sport

Basketball:

Final countdown for Thunder in National Cup Page 32

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

River Island’s spring collection has plenty of fresh looks for everyone

Jan 28-Feb 3, 2016

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Imagining our world in the year 2030…

The Minister for Development, Trade Promotion and North South Cooperation, Sean Sherlock is calling on all North Dublin primary school pupils from third to sixth class to take part in the 2016 Our World Irish Aid Awards and imagine what our world might look like in 2030. Through the awards, pupils learn about the lives of children in developing countries and the work of Irish Aid, the Government’s programme for overseas development.

North Dublin was well represented at the 2015 Awards, with Balbriggan ETNS, Milverton NS Skerries, Gaelscoil Bhrian Boroimhe Swords and St Ciaran’s NS Hartstown, making it to the regional finals.

Permission for Muslim prayer centre appealed Plans to change old An Post office on Rathbeale Road in Swords hits snag as fears it will effect traffic

 emma nolan PLANNING permission that has been granted to change the old An Post Sor ting Office at the Green just off Rathbeale Road in Swords to a Muslim Prayer and Com-

munity Centre has been appealed by residents.

The centre is to provide a community and prayer centre for around 300 members of the Muslim community in Swords. Fingal County Council granted businessman and leading member

of the Muslim community in Swords, Tariq Salahuddin’s planning permisison to change the use of the old building.

However, another local business ow ner, Paul McDonald of Fingal Glass Centre has appealed the

council’s decision due to the effect that the increased traffic from the centre will have on the street.

Salahuddin told The Gazette that he thought McDonald’s fear were unfounded.

Full Story on Page 2

2 SWORDS Gazette 28 January 2016

decision | traffic worries for businessman

Muslim cultural centre go-ahead is appealed  Emma Nolan

Swords has a Muslin community of around 300 members

Planning permission that was granted to change the old An Post sorting office on The Green just off the Rathbeale Road in Swords to a Muslim prayer and community centre has been appealed by residents.

The centre is to provide a community and prayer centre for around 300 members of the Muslim community in Swords.

The council granted businessman and leading member of the Muslim community in Swords, Tariq Salahuddin’s application to change the use of the old building.

However, another local business owner, Paul McDonald of Fingal Glass Centre which is located on the Rathbeale Road has appealed the council’s decision due to the effect that the increased traffic from the centre will have on the street, thus preventing his company vehicles from accessing his premises.

McDonald explained his reason for lodging the appeal: “Basically the lane is only wide enough for one car to pass and if any car parks in the lane it will obstruct it totally.

“The existing premises has space for about 16 cars to park, but when the Muslim community met for prayer at St Colmcille’s GAA club nearby there were 35 cars parked there, so basically I don’t know where they’re going to park and that’s my main concern.”

McDonald feels that

the added traffic on the road is “an accident in the making” and says that he has no objection to the Muslim community centre but urges that any public facility will need proper access and parking.

Salahuddin said that he was sorry to hear about the appeal and outlined many reasons why he thinks McDonald’s worries are unfounded.

He said: “Muslims believe that walking on foot to the prayer is more rewarding and the centre is easily accessible by public transport. Also, the existing car parking space is more than enough for those who may need to use cars.”

He also said that when the premises were used as the post sorting office, it had about 50 full-time employees and customers.

He said: “The heaviest usage of the centre will just be for one hour a week on Fridays. This will not generate traffic as much as it always was,” and urged that during that hour, members of the community centre will direct traffic at the lane.

“We believe it is natural that people will be cautious and may feel worried about any sort of change.

“However, we are confident that we will fit well together at the end. We promise the local residents that this centre will always be theirs.”

The council were unable to comment as the decision and appeal has been referred to An Bord Pleanala.

FastNews

Children with reading difficulties can be helped at Specsavers SPECSAVERS in Swords are now offering visual solutions to children with reading difficulties and dyslexia.

The specialist Schoolvision assessment involves an assessment followed by a binocular test, a reading speed test, measuring the eye dominance and eye tracking.

Once complete, optometrist Sean Douglas (above) determines an appropriate course of action to improve the child’s reading ability.

Douglas said that many parents come to him concerned that their children may have blurred vision which is affecting their learning at school.

Of the treatment, he said: “I have seen firsthand the difference it has made to several children’s reading fluency and learning and their overall quality of life.”

The Schoolvision eye examination costs €30, and is available at Specsavers, Swords Pavilions.

Table quiz to help school grow its garden initiative A TABLE quiz organised by the parent-teachers’ association of the Old Borough National School on Church Road, Swords, is taking place on Thursday, February 4 at 8pm in The Old Borough Wetherspoon’s Pub, Main Street, to fundraise for the school’s Root to Shoots garden project initiative.

The association plans to create a space to grow vegetables and plants that all classes can get involved with.

First, second and third place prizes have been sponsored by Wetherspoon’s and the event is open to all.

Call to bring Rush back to 1916 for this year’s St Patrick’s Day parade THIS year’s St Patrick’s Day Parade in Rush is set to be one of the best in the county as the Rush Heritage, Arts and Tourism Committee, in conjunction with Rush Community Council, are asking all groups, clubs, business owners and individuals in the community to re-create Rush as it was in 1916.

The organisers have put together a prize fund of €1,000 for the best themed entries and are planning to recreate mock-up facades of 1916 shopfronts, and are encouraging locals to dress in clothing typical of

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

what people in Ireland would have worn in 1916.

They are also calling on Rush residents to share any 1916 memorabilia they may have in their 1916 exhibition, and to draw on memories to include in their memoirs exhibition.

To get involved, email festival@rushcoco.ie, or call 01 843 9349.

28 January 2016 SWORDS Gazette 3

tourism | council quick to act to redress mix-up over ardgillan

charity

Upcoming public art initiative

Taxi takes US author to the wrong castle

A BESTSELLING fiction author from the United States was left disappointed after she missed an opportunity to visit Ardgillan Castle in Balbriggan on a recent trip to Dublin.

Jacquelyn Mitchard, author of The Deep End of the Ocean, was keen to include a visit to the castle with it on her itinerary, but was “very let down” when the taxi driver instead brought them to Dublin Castle in the city centre.

As this was the last stop before catching their flight, Mitchard and her family missed the chance to see the famous castle, which was built in 1738.

On learning of the family’s misfortune, Paul Reid, chief executive of

Fingal County Council, quickly contacted Mitchard to express his concern and regret for what had happened.

He said: “Fingal County Council extends a warm welcome to all international visitors to its area and its many heritage properties and other amenities.

“I’m delighted that Jacquelyn Mitchard and her family had intended to visit Ardgillan Castle and avail of its very popular afternoon tea, and I was so sorry to learn that she did not reach her planned destination.”

Reid offered the Mitchard family a tour of a number of Fingal County Council’s heritage properties including Ardgillan Castle, Malahide Castle,

Newbridge House, Skerries Mills and Swords Castle.

He said: “I was very pleased to see Ardgillan manager Tom Reilly’s generous offer to the Mitchards of a complimentary tour, including afternoon tea.

“I decided to extend an open invitation to the Mitchard family to experience all that Fingal County Council’s heritage properties have to offer on their next Dublin trip, to in some way address a mix-up which saw them missing out on a wonderful afternoon in Ardgillan Castle.

“I’m delighted to say that [she] replied immediately, assuring me that our offer will be taken up later this year.”

the future is bright

Ten-year-old Maya Broderick, a fourth-class student at St Patrick’s Senior National School in Skerries, receives a special prize from Minister for Education and Skills Jan O’Sullivan, and GOAL chief executive, Barry Andrews, for a letter she wrote to the Minister on the Syrian refugee crisis. Maya was a prize-winner in GOAL’s Write the Future competition, a development education initiative that invited students nationwide to write to a person of their choice about the ongoing crisis. More than 1,000 students aged between eight and 18 penned letters to sports-stars, musicians, politicians and others who they feel can make a difference in this area.

Picture: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland

A local Malahide artist, Fran Leavey of Fab Cow Design, recently painted for the upcoming Hares on the March campaign for the Jack and Jill Foundation.

T he charity’s next public art initiative is the gathering of 110 3ft tall hares which will be auctioned to raise funds for families of babies with brain damage nationwide.

Leavey’s design entitled O Dhubh Go Dubh, focuses on the mystical and magical role of the hare in many ancient cultures.

The Hare Tail booklets are available for collection at Kilkenny Design, Nassau Street, where O Dhubh Go Dubh will be displayed until the auction.

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malahide

Tender process starts for school building  emma nolan THE tender process has begun for the new school building for St Oliver Plunkett’s National School in Malahide.

While the staff are grateful for the announcement, they were reluctant to speak to The Gazette until the sod had been turned and a builder officially appointed.

This comes after a spate of broken promises and failed attempts to start the project over the past 20 years but, thanks to the work of the board of management, the current and former principals and parents, the build will finally go ahead.

Commenting on the news, former pupil Deputy Alan Farrell (FG) said: “It is great news that the tender process has begun for the new school building. It is with a great deal of personal pride that I can confirm that the construction process will finally begin on the brandnew, state-of-the-art facility for St Oliver Plunkett’s this coming summer.”

The school was informed that the project was ready to go in 2010, but it was then found that it did not have planning permission.

Deputy Farrell said: “As a former pupil of St Oliver Plunkett’s, I am delighted to have learned from the board of management that construction will commence over the summer, following the tender process which has just begun, with the tender award coming imminently.

“This is great news for the local community in Malahide as it will put in place the necessary infrastructure to ensure that our children receive their education in an environment which is conducive to their learning.”

heritage | funding for castle and environs welcomed

€1.5m boost for Swords civic, cultural quarter plan  emma nolan A TOTAL of €1.5m has been allocated to the Swords Castle Cultural and Civic Quarter project as part of the Designated Urban Centres Grants Scheme 2014 – 2020.

The grant funding scheme for gateway and hub towns will enable investments in sustainable transport and urban regeneration measures in Irish urban centres to the tune of €127m for the period 2014-2020.

The European Regional Development Fund is providing €40m to the projects, which are co-funded by the local authorities.

The Swords Castle Cultural Quarter master plan presents a road map for the regeneration of Swords Castle and its environs, addressing the issue of regenerating the medieval centre as the cultural and symbolic

centre of Swords.

The castle reopened to the public last summer and has hosted a number of successful events since then.

The initiative is multilayered and includes issues such as identifying cultural uses for the castle, identifying opportunities for new cultural buildings, and environmental improvement.

Boost Deputy Alan Farrell (FG) said that this project will be a great boost to Swords, in terms of revitalising the town, attracting more tourists to the area and providing vital social infrastructure for the greater community.

He said: “I am delighted that the project is to receive a grant of €1.5m.

With a population of approximately 40,000 people, this investment in the revitalisation of Swords is of the utmost

importance in ensuring the sustainable development of Swords as the town continues to grow.”

While Swords Castle has already seen improvements and has been partly refurbished with developments on the main archway and chapel, the project will consist of a three-phase plan, the first of which will see a number of improvements carried out on the site in order to make it more accessible, both as a tourist attraction and as a public amenity.

The second phase will focus on the redevelopment of the derelict buildings surrounding the castle, and the final phase will see a number of public realm improvements undertaken in the surrounding area.

While the total cost of the project will come to €3m, Deputy Farrell said that the grant will go a long way towards advancing the necessary works to

The Swords Castle Cultural and Civic Quarter project has been allocated €1.5m as part of an overall European Regional Development Fund

revitalise and regenerate the urban area of Swords and assist in attracting tourists to the area.

At the announcement of the funding, Paul Reid, chief executive of Fingal County Council said: “This funding gives us great momentum in advancing the architectural master plan for the Swords Castle Quarter that we developed in 2015, and is a significant boost to achieving the vision that we have for Swords as a vibrant urban centre

and as the county town of Fingal.”

Reid said that Swords Castle and town centre are a place of cultural significance and the actions contained in the Swords Castle Cultural Quarter master plan will energise the existing town centre: “This area will instil and foster a sense of place and civic pride and also act as a counterpoint to the shopping and business areas of the town.”

Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) also expressed his

support for the project which, he says, has allowed the residents to enjoy the historical amenity that many hadn’t been in years, since its reopening last summer.

The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr David O’Connor (Ind) also welcomed the announcement and said that the announcement “further underpins and supports what we in Fingal are trying to achieve in terms of using the county’s heritage assets in a sustainable way”.

Local author publishes his third book, Nation Out of Time

 emma nolan

Skerries-born self-published author Patrick Bentley has just completed his third book, Nation Out of Time.

In 2012, Bentley published his first fiction novel, Dark Line, a harrowing social commentary on drug problems in North Dublin.

Determined to share his work with his fellow Dubliners, he went door-to-door with the novel which resonated among many people he spoke to and

ended up selling 8,000 copies over three years. Now he is setting off for a second time with the sequel.

Bentley, who currently lives in Balbriggan, spoke to The Gazette about his latest work, which he describes as: “A commentary on drugs but also corruption in society and spirituality; a whole heap of different themes.”

Continuing on from issues dealt with in the first novel, the self-taught writer wanted to focus on the dangers that

teenagers in Dublin face with drugs, he said: “It gave parents an insight into what really goes on in pubs and nightclubs - I wanted to give something back to parents, educate them on what happens.”

He explains: “I started in August 2012 and went on for three years. I went up along the coast all the way from Balbriggan to Bray and back, and even up to Drogheda, in all weather.”

As for how he started writing, Bentley’s mother always

told him he should write, then after her tragic death in 1994 and period of coping with loss and addiction, he “fulfilled [his] mother’s prophecy” and started writing.

Starting off with his autobiography, he found he wanted to write more and moved on to fiction for his next projects and found once he started he couldn’t stop.

“Anyone that’s read Darkline will be interested to see what happens in the sequel,” he says, “It’s not just about drugs, it

touches on the scandals with the church and corrupt bankers. It explores these themes and their effects on the new generation of kids.

“I feel that these issues have made the younger generation afraid to trust people.”

Bentley is currently six months into writing his fourth book which he plans to title, The Spider of Greenridge and will start selling his sequel A Nation Out of Time in Swords, Malahide and Santry next week.

28 January 2016 SWORDS Gazette 5

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ask the politician | in the build up to the general election the gazette Question: How would you get Ireland’s emigrated citizens to return, if elected?

Provide targeted subsidies and tax credits for childcare costs to help working parents  Jack Chambers (Fianna Fail)

Fianna Fail’s guiding vision centres on creating an Ireland for All. We fundamentally believe everyone should have the same opportunity to gain employment.

However, the brain drain continues unabated with 149,000 third level graduates having left Ireland under Fine Gael and Labour in Government. This is damaging Ireland’s competitiveness as we compete in a global war on talent and skills.

A major barrier stopping skilled talent from returning to Irish shores are the large increases to the cost of living. From increases to premiums in health and motor insurance of up to 30%, scarcity of housing units, exorbitant banking and mortgage rates to spiralling childcare and transport costs – these are all deterring skilled workers from taking up job opportunities in Ireland.

Fianna Fail has specific measures to tackle

A US-style low tax system is just nowhere near enough to address society’s needs – and any returning emigrants know that  deputy clare daly (SP)

WHILE Fine Gael plan to entice emigrants home with a ‘US-style’ taxation system, I don’t believe that low taxes are something that will draw emigrants back.

Affordable, decent housing with security of tenure in the rental sector; a functioning health system; an education system that doesn’t discriminate on the basis of religion; a public transport system that receives the public investment it needs to work efficiently and well – these are the things that attract peo-

ple to live somewhere.

Emigrants know, as we all do, that a country with low taxes can’t fund its public services, so people have to pay out-of-pocket for everything, which costs them much more than they save in tax cuts.

Underfunded public services also have a huge impact on quality of life. Emigrants won’t come home so long as basic services are starved of the funding they need to operate.

If I’m elected, I will continue to fight for investment in services, for decent jobs with decent pay and condi-

tions, and against the privatisation of public goods.

I will continue the fight against regressive, unfair taxes like the water tax, and for a truly progressive tax and social insurance system that can provide for everyone.

I think for most emigrants, a fair and just society – with services available to all, and a decent quality of life – is one they’d like to come back to; the dog-eatdog free market nightmare peddled by Fine Gael, with the support of their Labour colleagues, is enticing to nobody.

these barriers to attracting skilled talent back to Ireland, including: • Provide targeted subsidies and tax credits for childcare costs to help working parents.

• Increase apprenticeships by 25%.

• Reform the banking sector to reduce mortgage rates and bank charges • Force medical insurance companies to tackle waste and high costs.

• Invest in infrastructure to reduce journey times for consumers and businesses.

• Re-establish the successful Motor Insurance Advisory Board which led to a considerable fall in insurance costs up to 2013 to tackle rising motor insurance premiums • Improve supply of social housing to take pressure off private rented sector.

We support simplifying the current tax code and reducing the burden of income tax on all workers including the marginal rate, gradually unwinding the USC and increasing tax credits.

28 January 2016 SWORDS Gazette 7

relaunches its q&a with election candidates on the topics that matter

We must implement a three-pronged approach to create society-wide changes that will support emigrants and citizens  deputy alan farrell (FG)

IF RE-ELECTED, I will work to ensure those who have emigrated will have every opportunity to return. In order to do this, we must focus on implementing a threepronged approach: making sure every person has the opportunity to work, ensuring work pays, and continuing to invest and improve the public services from which we all benefit.

Since the launch of the Action Plan for Jobs in 2012, more than 135,000 jobs have been created in our economy. Fine Gael have a long-term economic plan to reach full-employment by 2020.

We have started the process of abolishing the universal social charge, which has been cut in the last two budgets, and we are committed to getting rid of this tax, should we be re-elected.

This will be supported by sensible increases in the minimum wage, coupled with a working family payment to ensure that work pays better than the dole.

Furthermore, we are supporting working parents, with the introduction of a second free pre-school year and better after-school

The Government is ignoring the reasons why emigrants aren’t coming back – they want more than our chaotic systems  cllr joe o’brien (GP)

SOME of my most significant achievements in my campaigning career have been for the welfare of Irish emigrants during my time with Crosscare.

In 2010, I led a campaign to ensure that vulnerable returned Irish emigrants were granted access to essential social welfare.

Prior to this, many forgotten Irish who returned were shut out from welfare.

I have made significant contributions to the development of Ireland’s first diaspora strategy and I have advocated at an Oireachtas committee for the development of an Irish Emigrant Register.

This is a simple mechanism that would allow the

Depar tment of Jobs to directly call people home when job vacancies arise in their area of expertise.

I have carried out extensive research with 500 Irish emigrants abroad on their experiences. There is a huge problem of homesickness among our young emigrants, and mental health challenges that the Government is not fully aware of.

In that research, people also spoke about what would help to bring them home. For further information, see w w w.mindhowyougo.ie.

More than 250,000 people have left the country in the past five years. If we are to get them back, then we need to make Ireland more attractive than the country

they are living in.

R e c e n t G ove r n m e n t gimmicks and election promises to cut tax rates to tempt emigrants back betray this Government’s lack of understanding of emigration.

People will come back if we can offer them a better quality of life and I know for a fact that many of our emigrants abroad look at our housing crisis and our health system and reluctantly decide that where they are is a better place to raise their family.

In order to tempt people back, we also need to have first-class public transport systems, low commute times, solid and affordable childcare options and, ultimately, more time for family life.

care as a starting point.

I will work to ensure the burden of childcare costs are tackled to ensure parents are not penalised by these costs, and this will assist in helping young families who have emigrated to come home.

Through sensible and sustainable investment in public services, which will be financed through rising employment and an overall stronger economy, we can make put in place the level of services necessary to support our existing communities and support our emigrants coming home.

In addition to this, we will create more jobs for nurses, doctors, teachers and gardai, invest in more housing, and reduce class sizes so that the necessary social infrastructure is in place to help Ireland’s emigrated on their return.

Through increasing the level of jobs available, ensuring work pays, and investing in better services in our local community, we can provide those who have emigrated with the opportunity to return home.

In doing this, we can also provide our children with a brighter future, ensuring they will not be exported for work, like members of my family and generations before us.

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SWORDSGazettegallery | Fingal Dublin Chamber family Business

Willie Maxwell (Salesplus) and Michelle Hawkins (FKP)

Jessica Westphal, Ger Nolan, Susan Byrne, Kevin Price and Ger Heskin from AIB Swords. Pictures: Stephen Fleming

Brian Folay (Trinity College) and Ciaran O’Brien Gary Matthews and David Lowe (Pristine Home)

(Peter O’Brien Landscaping)

Denise Reilly, Nicole Curran and Nicola Connolly

28 January 2016 SWORDS Gazette 11

BREAKFAST SEMINAR IN THE GRAND HOTEL MALAHIDE

Rima Fitzpatrick and Ziva Newmann from DCU Centre of Family Business

Patrick McKenna

Guy Thompson, president of Fingal Dublin Chamber

Maura Moloney (Dublin Airport Authority) and Laura Murphy (Bright Contacts)

Planning for the next generation

Maurice Cregan, Ger Heskin and Tony Lambert

T

he Family Business Breakfast Seminar saw family business and asset succession experts on hand to help with planning the next generation and getting your business ready. Long-term succession issues and asset transfer objectives were top of the agenda as locals came to get top tips for continuity of the family business, liquidity and family needs.

Michael Farrell (FKP) and Guy Thompson (president Fingal Dublin Chamber)

Feargal McCormack (FKP FPM

Brendan Grady (AIB Malahide) and Phil Browne (AIB Airside)

Cathy Nugent and Angela McDonnell

Accountants)

Kevin O’Brien (Craftbeer Growlers)

12 SWORDS Gazette 28 January 2016

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dublinlife

diary

Check out our galaxy in Glasnevin A s pe c tac t u l a r photo exhibition, entitled Images of Starlight,

by Irish amateur astronomers and photographers will open up to the public on February 2 and run

until February 21 at the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin.

Spectators are invited to view intriguing photographs of the solar system, our galaxy – The

Milky Way – and other galaxies.

Leo Enright, space commentator and broadcaster, who has broadcast live commentaries on every major space event

since the first moon landing, will open the exhibition which he says is a “rare opportunity to view the highest quality astronomical images”.

Many of these objects

are millions of light years away but visitors will be able to see them up close and be surprised that their light passes into their own back gardens at night.

The images on show will feature Irish winners of the International Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition organised by the Greenwich Observatory in London.

This free event is organised by the Dublinbased Irish Astronomical Society and the Irish Federation of Astronomical Societies.

cancer charity under threat Children’s cancer charity Hand In Hand is under threat of closure due to the lack of funds needed to support families of children with cancer.

Hand in Hand was established in 2006 and offers emotional and practical support in the homes of families who have a child undergoing treatment for cancer.

These services include domestic cleaning, laundry, childcare and family meals.

The organisation receives no state funding at present and is completely reliant on fundraising events and donations and only employs two full-time staff with salaries not exceeding

€30,000 per annum.

The charity are asking that the Irish public donate just €5 to help to secure the future of Hand In Hand.

Paula Carroll, a voluntary director at the charity, said: “We desperately wish the Irish public will respond immediately and generously so that we can save Hand In Hand and continue to offer much needed support to the families of children fighting cancer.”

For further information and to donate €5, see www.handinhand.ie.

the odds, for now. in favour of FF I t SEE M S p u n t e r s believe that Fianna Fail will win more than 31.5% of the seats in the upcoming general election, despite a date for it being still uncertain, according to BoyleSports.

Having laid over 30.5% seats at 5/6, the band has now been increased to a percentage further and the support is showing no signs of drying up for Fianna Fail to gain over 31.5% of seats at 5/6.

Liam Glynn, BoyleSports’ spokesperson said: “Punters believe that Fianna Fail will get over 30% of seats in the next general election and, following a flurry of bets on over 30.5%, the band has been moved up to 31.5%, with no sign of support for over 31.5% of

Fianna Fail seats easing.

“Despite punters expecting Fianna Fail to win over 31.5% of the seats, their leader, Michael Martin’s odds of becoming Taoiseach have drifted out to 10/1 with current Taoiseach Enda Kenny expected to contest a second term in office, as suggested by his 1/11 odds.”

Enable ireland in need of donations The public are being asked to donate to Enable Ireland in order to help them continue their free services to children and adults with disabilities and their families.

The charity covers all aspects of a child’s physical, educational, and social development, from early infancy through adolescence. For adults, it offers a range of services covering personal development, independent living, supported employment and social and leisure activities.

Enable Ireland says the demand for its services continues to increase throughout Ireland. It has three adult centres in Dublin, located at Sandyford, Crumlin and Dun Laoghaire.

Te x t E N A BLE t o 50300 to donate €4, with 100% of donations going to Enable Ireland across most network operators.

Their helpline number is 076 680 5278.

Spectacular starscapes will create some heavenly sights at the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin soon, thanks to a stunning photo exhibition

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dublinlife

FEATURES

A journey from the streets of Dun Laoghaire to James Bond don cameron

www.donsdublin.wordpress.com

IT’S a long way from Dun Laoghaire to Hollywood, and a journey that James Bond producer Kevin McClory made with distinction.

For the man who produced the movie, Thunderball, it was quite a journey and one that he almost did not make.

McClory was born on June 8, 1924 to Thomas and Alice McClory, who were both actors and the-

atre producers.

They lived at Mellifont Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, and he learned about acting as the youngest member of his parents’ theatre company. It travelled throughout Ireland and Britain, but the outbreak

of World War II brought a stop to that.

McClory spent the early war years as a radio officer on the Norwegian tanker, Stigstad, which was torpedoed and sunk on February 21, 1943. He and others got into a life raft and survived dreadful conditions for two weeks.

They drifted 600 miles before being rescued and taken to a hospital in Kerry.

He suffered frostbite and lost the ability to speak for more than a year, after which he was left with a stammer.

After the war, McClory worked at Shepperton Studios in Middlesex as a location manager before moving up the ladder as assistant to John Huston on The Africa Queen (1951), and assistant director on Moby Dick (1956).

His stock was rising, and he was asked to act as assistant producer on Mike Todd’s Around the World in 80 Days (1956).

In 1959, Mcclory met author Ian Fleming, who asked him to read his James Bond books. He did, and told Fleming that the character “jumped off the page”, although he needed some modifications to make him interesting for a screenplay.

He, Fleming and Jack Whittingham worked on the new project (Thunderball) until Fleming dropped out due to other commitments. However, when Fleming published the book without recognising the others’ work, they sued – and won.

In December, 1965, Thunderball was released and it is still the most financially successful of the James Bond series.

a day in the life: helping volunteers help children

Lorna’s crucial role at LauraLynn  Ian Begley

Volunteers play a crucial role in the dayto-day running of LauraLynn’s children’s hospice and are needed in many areas, such as helping out with fundraising events, interacting with children and their families and assisting the clinical care team.

The hospice provides support throughout a child’s life and offers a variety of care for children with life-limiting conditions.

Lorna Collins, the volunteer coordinator of LauraLynn, spoke to The Gazette this week about what a day in her life is like.

“I started working here last February and it’s a relatively new, fulltime job. I used to work in a very similar role for about nine years, so I’ve fitted in very nicely here.

Basically, my job involves looking after our team of volunteers, which amounts to about 120 at the moment.

“I’m officially here five days a week and am

always up and down from my desk throughout the day.

“I have to meet the volunteers each day and make sure they’re happy.

Most would do a twohour shift, and I would meet up and see how they’re doing throughout the day.

“Some of the volunteers are called activity assistants and would start the day with ‘circletime activities’, which involves a lot of fun and games. When the kids are up and out of bed, we start their day with lots of songs and dancing.

“The volunteers then read the kids stories, and help them do arts and crafts. They also assist the clinical staff and basically just keep the kids entertained throughout the day. Their job is to make sure LauraLynn is a really fun place and to make the children’s stay feel like a holiday.

“I would interact with kids on a regular basis, but mainly do the same role as the volunteers.

The clinical team look after their clinical needs

Lorna Collins, volunteer coordinator at LauraLynn children’s hospice

and the volunteers provide a source of entertainment and help the staff keep the energy levels high.

“I have a nine-to-five job, but the volunteers here start from 9am-8pm and also work weekends too.

“It can be a new and daunting experience for some of them when they first arrive, so I have to make sure they’re okay and having fun.

“I’ve a few students in

with me today who are making cloud props to teach the children about the weather, so it’s all very hands-on.

“We have many outings and events during the weekend as well, and the volunteers often dress up as superheroes and Disney characters. If needs be, I’ll also throw on a costume as well.”

For more information about how to volunteer at Lauralynn, see www.lauralynn.ie.

28 January 2016 Gazette 17

food P20

SUPPLEMENT P21

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

style P18

Pets gentle bruno deserves a second chance for a home

The members of Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, who are set to delight Dublin fans of the group with their note-perfect performances of many classic tunes

music: rumours of fleetwood mac at bord gais energy theatre

Go your own way to see Rumours  emma nolan enolan@dublingazette.com

The Bord Gais Energy Theatre are welcoming the ultimate tribute to one of rock-and- roll’s most remarkable groups this January 31with a one-night performance from Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Fleetwood Mac fans can immerse themselves in a night of classic hits, meticulously performed in the style of the iconic band, and spanning the length of their career.

Having performed to more than a million fans since they formed more than a decade ago, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac return to Ireland this month to launch their stunning new stage production, performing in note-for-note detail all the classic hits from one of the most out-

standing and enduring catalogues in the history of rock music.

Recognised internationally as the world’s leading Fleetwood Mac tribute show, Rumours secured the priceless golden seal of approval from founding member Mick Fleetwood, who described the act as “an extraordinary emotive performance of Fleetwood Mac”.

With recent guest appearances from Fleetwood Mac’s very own legendary guitarist Rick Vito, this stunning new show takes the audience on an epic musical journey through changing eras and styles, from the exciting sound of the 1960s London Blues scene right through to the staggering commercial success of the 1970s, 1980s and beyond.

Replicating perfectly the power and subtlety of Fleetwood Mac at their bril-

liant best, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac perform all the classic hits live, including Black Magic Woman, Dreams, Gypsy, Say You Love Me, Sara, Oh Diane, Little Lies, Everywhere and many more.

Louise Rogan and Amanda Kostadinov are famed for their incredibly authentic performances of Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie respectively. From vocals to body language, it’s hard to tell the difference between the tribute and the real thing.

While it’s entirely possible that the band could send Fleetwood Mac fans home happy by playing Rumours from start to finish, the seasoned professionals go beyond that, delving into the back catalogue and B-sides to take the show to a heightened level of authenticity.

During the show, the stage empties to

allow the musicians revert to the Peter Green era of the band in the 1960s before Nicks and McVie joined, with Blues guitar favourites like Albatross and Black Magic Woman. The bulk of the show consists of performances of best-known songs like Go Your Own Way, Dreams, The Chain, Landslide, Rhiannon and more, executed in the style of famous past Fleetwood Mac live shows.

The show features a message from Fleetwood Mac drummer, Mick Fleetwood, who tells the audience: “Let’s share our music once again. Of course we’re not here in body, but we are in musical spirit”, and gives his endorsement to his “dear friends” performing the music adored for generations.

The show starts at 7:30pm, with tickets priced €31.50 and €41.50.

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 Bruno – a male, seven-year-old Terrier cross.

His story started out as quite a sad one, as his owner passed away and left poor Bruno heartbroken.

He is such a sweet, gentle and loving little soul, but given his background it will take him a while to settle in to a new home, so we are looking for extra special adopters who will give him that second chance in life.

If you think you could offer Bruno 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.

OUT&ABOUT

STYLE

Gazette

Gazette

18 Gazette 28 January 2016

Drops Of Youth Overnight Mask €36.50

Let your skin bloom with help from plants

Women’s Le Chic sunglasses €13

Women’s Lina stripe top €37

Men’s Floral shirt €37

€75 Women’s Zahra khaki shirt dress

Men’s Leaf

THE Body Shop has been searching high and low for even more special ingredients to add to its popular skin care ranges, with plant stem cells providing an excellent base for three new products.

From the Alpine mountains of TrentinoAlto, Italy to the sandy beaches and rocky shorelines of Brittany, France, a range of plants have surrendered their natural goodness to The Body Shop, who in turn have prepared three new products in their Drops of Youth range.

Drawing upon edelweiss’s protective properties, sea holly’s firming properties and criste marine, which helps natural skin renewal, the Drops of Youth products are a natural addition to your skin’s daily routines, whether used as part of your overall skincare or on t h e i r ow n individual merits.

The Body S h o p ’ s Drops of Youth range is available now.

25

€ print shorts

springforth WITH the worst of winter behind us – touch wood – we’re all beginning to think of brighter looks and styles as a grand stretch begins to creep back into the evening. (It’s slow, but it’s definitely there!)

River Island’s spring collection has plenty of fresh looks for men and women, with some familiar wardrobe staples getting a bang up to date

twist, as colours pop alongside some classic shades and hues.

Whether you’re going out at the weekend, brightening up the office or just looking forward to sunnier days (remember them?), River Island’s spring collections will put you in the right mood to banish the winter blues, and spring out there with a ... err, bounce in your step and some great new styles.

Drops Of Youth Eye Concentrate €31.95

Drops Of Youth Essnce Lotion €23.95

Women’s Le Chic bag €40

Women’s Printed washbag €20

Women’s Spa wedge boots €60

28 January 2016 Gazette 19

Gazette

20 Gazette 28 January 2016

OUT&ABOUT

Shaking up online food ordering Since its launch in June 2015, Marvin.ie has shaken up online food ordering with a revolutionary and rewarding system which offers a better deal for customers and for restaurants. Marvin.ie now offers more diversity in takeaway food than ever before, with over 30 cuisine types available to order. This is expected to continue to grow in the coming year.

We tested it recently from our fairly central abode in Dublin 8.

We ordered cheeseburgers, fries and a thoroughly authentic strawberry shake with all the trimmings from Mad Cow Milkshakes and Burgers in Cabra.

The food arrived very slightly over the 45 minute wait time given, but was hot all the way through and delicious.

I was also chuffed to be able to order a milkshake to my front door.

Marvin.ie works with some of the biggest takeaway food names in the business, including Apache Pizza, Mizzoni’s, Camile Thai Kitchen, Zaytoon and Bombay Pantry. Order online at Marvin.ie or via the Marvin.ie iPhone or Android app. Keep in touch with Marvin.ie on Twitter (@Marvin.ie) and Facebook (facebook.com/Marvin.ie).

FOOD&DRINK

The Picky Eater hits D8 The sounds of rejoicing can surely be heard for miles around in the streets of Dublin 8. The enclave of Kilmainham - where artists and hipsters, townies and bourgeois professionals who fancy themselves a little bit urban meet has finally got itself a decent restaurant, and this is a crowd that likes to eat out!

Having lived in the area myself for many years and being in the game and all, I had long daydreamed of opening my perfect “neighbourhood” joint there. Alas, I wasn’t in a position to do so and didn’t really have the experience or backing then and it has taken another six years for someone else to cotton on.

It still amazes me that none of the city’s main players ever took a punt of the grittier end of D8. A stone’s throw from town at the end of Thomas St and boasting some of the inner cities most visited attractions such as IMMA, Guinness’s and The Gaol, not to mention an imbalanced quota of the pink pound. This is an inbuilt market if ever there was one and Union 8 on the corner of South Circular and Old Kilmainham Road is prized to cash in.

I still spend plenty of time in the area thanks to my friends there, so

trekked over from my current home in D6 last Saturday to check it out with the locals.

On a miserable January Saturday night the sparkly newness and subtle lighting had transformed this derelict old corner, which was formerly an 80s social welfare office, into something you might see in Shoreditch.

Huge awnings and large picture windows give you a view straight into the uber- hip and modern industrial style space which was already buzzing on opening weekend. We sat just inside the door in a comfy little lounge area looking into the open bar and kitchen and taking in the brickwork, painted steel and midcentury furnishings. Staff where super relaxed and attentive and we were seated soon after arriving, though I expect the queues will get longer.

There were four of us and we opted to do a roundup of the menu and share the lot. So here goes: Really lovely charcuterie and a beautiful, creamy and delightfully savoury white onion soup, a perfect tart and sweet beetroot and sheep’s cheese salad and wonderfully succulent spiced lamb breast started us off and took a swipe at our unre-

Union 8 is “the perfect neighbourhood joint” that breathes some gastronomic life into D8

covered post Christmas hunger pangs.

A nice break of 15 minutes allowed us to enjoy our seriously good Tempranillo and give us an appetite for mains. The swapping of plates continued so here goes again: Beef cheek that was tender and flavoursome in its ubiquitous dark unctuous gravy, crispy fatty and soft pork belly was utterly beautiful, a surprisingly moist and moreish supreme of chicken which was delicious and delicate with an outstanding dark meat pie and a perfectly cooked loin of venison with a fondant potato that was as nice as I’ve had!

We shared a chocolate fondant with salted caramel ice cream which was beyond lush.

Prices for starters are €7-9 and mains are an extremely fair €17-27.

With four bottles of wine and a couple of coffees are bill was a satisfactory €242, minus tip.

Only fair to say that food of a less fancy variety is available up the road in the bar of the Hilton and the auld Italian above the Patriot does a mean pizza – I’ve put a way a few in my time – but it’s great to see such a cool little establishment breath some gastronomic life into the area …finally.

Conclusion Union8 boasts an uber- hip and modern industrial style interior. Staff where super relaxed and attentive. Food was flavoursome and delicious. (740 South Circular Road, Kilmainham, Dublin 8 Island Bridge. Phone:(01) 677 8707

Gazette

Bride Groom

28 January 2016 Gazette 21

Let The Gazette help make your wedding day extra special and guarantee you have happy memories to share with friends and family in the years to come budgeting advice:

We have some great tips to help manage your cash for the big day Page 22

celebrate in style: rock their world:

Dresses

From classic, timeless designs to a more contemporary look, we have a range of truly beautiful dresses See page 24

Ciara Bridal at Powersourt TownHouse Centre Esther Dress â‚Ź1,600

Take your pick from a wide range of beautiful homes and castles

These glittering beauties will delight any lucky recipient

Page 23

Page 24

Gazette

22 Gazette 28 January 2016

Bride Groom

See what the Headfort Arms Hotel has to offer at their wedding showcase The Headfort Arms Hotel in Kells will

special touches and theme with the

host its wedding showcase on Sunday,

help of a team of in-house wedding

February 7.

coordinators who are on hand from

Bridal couples can now arrive via

start to finish and ensure that the

the new garden entrance which hosts

Headfort really offers that personal

beautiful bespoke white gates. Guests

wedding experience.

can also enjoy the new paved areas,

Fully inclusive packages are also on

giant parasols and seating areas, rain

offer to take the occasional stresses

or shine.

of planning away. Packages include a

The garden is now also self-con-

luxury hotel reception package with

tained with its own bar, rest rooms and

five-course dinner, floristry, station-

BBQ, making it the perfect backdrop to

ary, wedding cake, live band, profes-

civil ceremonies which can now be held

sional DJ, photography, videography

outside in the venue.

and full venue dressing, from €8,500 for

Civil and humanist wedding pack-

100 persons (on selected dates). Mid-

ages, which cater for couples who do

week inclusive packages start at €39.95

not want a religious ceremony, are very

per person.

much increasing in popularity. Equally

Full wedding weekend packages are

for those who wish to embrace the

also available which include a “next

autumnal or winter seasons, the Head-

day” garden party, with pig-on-the-

fort is known for its open fires, homely

spit or casual food offerings custom-

atmosphere and an Irish welcome set

ised as you wish.

to match.

Couples can customise their menus,

For further information, see www.headfortarms.ie.

| financing your wedding |

Keeping the big day on budget To avoid going over budget, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s website www.consumerhelp. ie has timely advice for anyone who recently got engaged.

Review your spending Get a clear picture of your finances. If you have outstanding debts such as loans or credit card bills, concentrate on clearing them first, starting with the most expensive, to gain a good insight into what money you have available to spend.

Start saving To avoid starting married life on a bad financial footing, consider opening a savings account dedicated to your wedding costs.

At www.consumerhelp. ie, you will find a savings comparison tool to compare the interest rates on savings accounts from the main providers.

Make a wedding budget Check out the wedding budget planner on the Competition and Consumer Protection’s consumer website (http:// www.consumerhelp.ie/ wedding-budget).

This online tool will help you calculate all costs, big and small. Most importantly, it will help you prioritise your spending.

Struggling to meet the cost If you are struggling to stay within your budget and feel that you need to borrow, check how much it will cost you and how long it will take you to

repay the loan. You can do this by using the loan calculator at www.consumerhelp.ie. There is also a personal loan cost comparison on the website, which allows you to compare the latest interest rates charged by the main providers.

Be Flexible Try and stay flexible in your plans. Consider getting married off-peak; the month and the day you choose to marry on could save you thousands of euro. In terms of venues, be open to alternative spaces and think about the experience you can create.

Ask for help; cake making and decoration, calligraphy, photography and music may be hobbies your friends have.

Join online discussion forums and read wedding blogs to find out about others’ experiences with suppliers and ways you can save.

Pay by credit/debit card Paying by credit/debit card instead of cash offers you some protection if things go wrong. For instance, you may be able to request a chargeback if something goes wrong, such as the bridal shop closing down. A chargeback is when your card provider agrees to reverse the transaction. Avoid signing a contract with a venue until you are sure what is and isn’t included in the price being quoted.

Keep all the paperwork Quotes, contracts and receipts relating to the wedding should be kept

Whether you’re planning on pushing the boat out or going for a more intimate affair, keeping track of any related wedding costs is essential

safe in case of any issues with a supplier.

What about insurance?

Wedding insurance offers you more security if something does go wrong – such as failure of traders to deliver a service. Many insurance providers offer wedding insurance, so make sure you know what the policy covers before

you buy. Travel insurance for your honeymoon can cover you against any losses. Shop around for the best value and always check the policy details before you buy.

To get more tips and advice on managing your money for life’s big events, check out the Competition and Consumer Protection’s website at www.consumerhelp.ie.

28 January 2016 Gazette 23

| there are many beautiful, old irish venues to host your dream wedding |

Let the past help start your future THE right venue is a key part of making your big day a wonderful one for everyone, and not “just” for the happy couple.

Whether looking for a venue that’s steeped in history, or for something a little more contemporary, there’s a venue to suit all tastes and budgets, with the following sure to delight all who book them.

Tankardstown House, Co Meath Tankardstown comprises an 18th century manor house and orangery – the focal point of an 80-acre estate of parkland, woodland, courtyards and walled

gardens.

Both civil ceremonies and civil partnerships can be held within the house and in the gardens by the yew tree. The predinner drinks reception in the main house sets the tone for the evening ahead, when guests proceed down the winding staircase to the orangery, which can seat up to 250 guests for dinner.

For further information, see www.irelandsbluebook.com, or contact Tankardstown House directly at 041 982 4621.

Rathsallagh House, Co Wicklow Imagine the wedding of your dreams in your own

country house with a romantic parkland setting of rolling fields and thousands of mature trees.

Rathsallagh, a member of Ireland’s Blue Book, is regarded as the ultimate country house (home of the O’Flynn family) wedding venue in Ireland.

Its exclusivity allows the flexibility to tailor all arrangements to suit couples on their special day.

With its walled gardens and orangery, Rathsallagh is ideal for civil ceremonies and blessings, while there are a number of quaint country churches on its door step.

For further information see www.irelandsbluebook.com, or contact

Rathsallagh directly at 045 403 112.

Castle Leslie Estate, Co Monaghan Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes, Castle Leslie is a stunningly beautiful and secluded estate in Co Monaghan.

A truly private rural escape, it is a magical setting for your very special day. Located in the village of Glaslough, the estate is only 80 minutes from Dublin, but feels like a million miles away from modern life’s stresses.

Castle Leslie Estate can accommodate different styles of wedding celebrations, ranging from 40-260 guests. For further information, see www. irelandsbluebook.com, or contact Castle Leslie directly at 047 88100.

Kilronan Castle, Co Roscommon Located on the shores of Lough Meelough, Ballyfarnon, Kilronan Castle is a hidden gem, and one of Ireland’s most luxurious castle hotels.

The ancestral home of the Tenison family, Kilronan Castle is steeped in history, full of character and old-world charm.

With its acres of woodland, open lawns and pathways, the castle offers everything to make the big day pass without a hitch, catering for intimate to extravagant weddings alike.

Its 84 superbly appointed bedrooms are fully equipped with contemporary comforts, fusing modern luxury with a touch of old-style glamour.

For further information, see www.kilronancastle.ie, or contact Kilronan Castle directly at 071 961 8000.

Make it Monaghan for a wedding venue to remember, with historic Castle Leslie providing a striking backdrop for your photos

Gazette

24 Gazette 28 January 2016

Bride Groom

| classic, timeless styles |

Commins & Co, 2.20ct sapphire and diamond ring €2,150 The Town Bride Stella York Wedding Dress €POR

With this ring …

Ciara Bridal at Powerscourt Townhouse Centre Lulu Dress €2,000

WITH Valentine’s Day just around the corner – one of the most popular days of the year for popping the big question – we decided to take a look at some of the more popular rings available this year. The single solitaire, which proved popular for so many year, has been usurped by the cluster diamond, or princess cut.

Kate Middleton has also made popular the solitaire sapphire surrounded by diamonds. Here are some of our faves, from Commins and Co.

Commins & Co, 1.00ct yellow sapphire ring €2,475

Commins & Co, 1.95ct aquamarine and diamond ring €3,550

Commins & Co, Halo engagement ring selection

Ciara Bridal at Powerscourt Townhouse Centre, Naomi wedding dress POR

It’s all about the Dress!

It’s likely to be one of the most (if not the most

important) dresses you will ever wear, so, every bride wants to get it just right.

Commins & Co, Solitaire engagement ring selection

Covet The Collection, Sophia dress from €195

Sweetheart necklines and bust dresses have made way for sleeker, silk and satin looks with a

strong Downton influence.

With Covet in Powerscourt now doing a bridal

range, there is plenty of opportunity to wear

a show-stopping gown. Here, we’ve picked out some of our favourites.

Knightsbridge, Johanna Johnson Wedding Gown, €POR

28 January 2016 Gazette 25

26 swords gazette 28 January 2016

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Gazette

28 gazette 28 January 2016

SPORT

FastSport Tector runs not enough for Irish side: IRELAND’S Under19 cricket team suffered a second consecutive World Cup warm-up defeat in Savar on Monday when a disappointing batting collapse saw them lose by four wickets to Canada.

Dubliners Jack Tector and Stephen Doheny gave Ryan Eagleson’s side a perfect platform with an opening stand of 88 in 14 overs before the Canadians struck back impressively through Kurt Ramdath.

Skipper Tector hit eight fours and a six in his knock of 83 before younger brother, Harry, chipped in with a very valuable 37 before Ireland finally dismissed for 197.

Canada, however, made the total with four wickets to spare to see them home with Abreesh Khan clipping an unbeaten 93 runs to play the captain’s role.

Ireland begin the tournament in earnest on Thursday against tournament favourites India.

boxing: lucan woman bringing celtic warrior ethos to los angeles

Christie’s American dream  james hendicott

sport@dublingazette.com

LAST SUMMER, Lucan native Kerrie Christie left Blanchardstown’s Celtic Warrior Boxing Club after four years, and took off for pastures new with Box N Burn in Los Angeles. Her lofty aim: “become boxing’s premiere female coach”.

Eight months on, GazetteSport spoke to Christie to hear how her American adventure is progressing. “Life has been crazy fast but absolutely amazing, getting myself settled in the gym, in the area, and to the lifestyle,” she said of her new surroundings.

“I’ve been working hard in the gym, trying to learn as much as I can

and progress as much as I can, and work on my own conditioning too. Things are going great. I feel like I’ve always been here.

“The gym is going from strength to strength and I’ve become a head trainer which is a great little boost.”

One of Christie’s key aims on leaving Ireland was to learn from Box N Burn, with the club home to a host of high-level boxing superstars ranging from British prospect Tony Jeffries to leading fitness trainer Kevan Watson.

On the learning process, she says it’s more about adaptations than sweeping changes, but that she’s progressing nonetheless.

“My approach to box-

ing training has changed,” she says. “Being surrounded by world class trainers here with so much knowledge, you pick up little bits here and there that you add to your arsenal. Just minor changes, different techniques, rather than the approach.”

Of course, there is some Los Angeles glamour to be had, too. “I can’t mention a name right now, but I am currently training a client, privately, for an upcoming tour starting in April.

“She and her band are touring Europe over three months from April - July. So, she needs to be in peak fitness to be able to keep up with a very demanding tour schedule, and then we are also

Kerry Christie conducts a training session at the Box n Burn gym in Los Angeles

trying to get her into peak condition so she looks good on stage too.

“It’s exciting. It’s a fun project! They actually hit Ireland in May, I’m hoping to get out for the show.”

Christie’s move also gives an insight into the Irish boxing scene’s success, especially at age-group level, by comparison. “The amateur set up is a lot different,” she tells us. “In Ireland, we have boxing clubs in most small towns, like you would with a GAA team or football team for local kids to get involved and start learning and competing.

“From my own expe-

rience in Ireland being part of a boxing club, we start young like eight or nine years old, and spar as soon as possible. Over here, there doesn’t seem to be boxing gyms, not for young kids anyway.

“The only boxing clubs I’ve come across, are high school or college teams.

College sports are obviously massive over here.

A big college will have a boxing team.

“Other than that, there are plenty of boxing clubs around, but they are for people to go and train in. You have to find your own trainer to take you down the amateur fight path.”

As for life in Califor-

nia’s sun? There’s no question it suits the Dub. “I really am in love with life over here,” she says.

“If you want to do something, the opportunity is here for you, just put the hard work in and it’ll work out. Sometimes life feels like an episode of Entourage.

“Twice I’ve had Arnold Schwarzenegger cycle past me as I’m skateboarding on the beach cycle path. Walk down the street to get a coffee and you’ll most likely bump into a celebrity.”

With “big news” to follow in the coming months, Christie’s LA adventure sounds like it’s just beginning.

Madigan gives Stillorgan RFC a coaching masterclass  sport@dublingazette.com

Ian Madigan giving advice at his master-class session with Stillorgan RFC

LEINSTER and Ireland rugby star, Ian Madigan – who is a Life Style Sports ambassador – paid a special visit to Stillorgan RFC to share some of his secrets of success.

Currently playing in Division 3 of the Dublin Metro League, Stillorgan RFC were put through a 90-minute master-class session

by Madigan with a special focus on tactical and place kicking.

The club won the session following a competition run by the sports shop with Ian Earls of

Stillorgan RFC selected as the lucky winner.

Earls and his team mates took to the field in Kilmacud where the Irish out-half demonstrated skills and techniques honed under the guidance of Leinster and Ireland coaching staff, breaking down each skill and technique as the team strive for victory this season.

Competition winner Ian Earls said of the session: “It was such a great experience to be coached by and play with Ian Madigan.

“He’s one of the best players around, so to have the oppor-

tunity to be trained by him was really something special, definitely an unforgettable experience.

“I entered the Life Style Sports competition because, while my team are very good, our kicking game was in need of some work, so no better man than Ian to come in and give us some inspiration!”

Madigan said of the session: “They were a great group of lads and I really enjoyed the experience. The session itself was a good challenge as there was a real mixture of ability with

some beginners thrown in with guys who have been playing for years.

“However, they all had a great energy and a huge appetite for the sport, which is great to see.”

Debbie Byrne, marketing director at Life Style Sports added: “Our involvement in rugby is not limited to the elite level but caters to players of all ages and abilities through our unrivalled range of performance apparel and equipment.

“We’ll be keeping a close eye on Stillorgan RFC’s results in the coming weeks and months.”

28 January 2016 gazette 29

Gazette

Goldrick hoping for Ladyball dividends

FastSport

Lidl’s marketing campaign for the new ladies football season certainly garnered plenty of media attention; Dublin and Foxrock Cabinteely star hopes it will brings a wider audience  nathan kelly

sport@dublingazette.com

AS IS the case every January, media coverage for intercounty football is growing week by week.

This year, however, ladies Gaelic football stole the headlines, if even for a couple of days.

Ladyball announced itself to the world on social media last week and immediately grabbed attention. A new pink ball, “specially designed for a lady’s game with softtouch for a woman’s grip, eazi-play for a woman’s ability and fashion-driven for a woman’s style”.

Three days later and after much outrage online, ladies football’s new sponsors, Lidl, owned up to Ladyball, admitting it was a marketing campaign to raise awareness and show

how ladies gaelic football deserves serious support.

Foxrock Cabinteely’s Sinead Goldrick appeared on the poster in the supermarket chain’s second, more-serious video and we asked her what she thought of the whole idea.

“I think it was a successful campaign that brought attention to ladies football at a time that we wouldn’t normally get media coverage,” said the All-Star.

“Hopefully, it will follow through with activation in terms of raising awareness of ladies football and will, in turn, bring more attendance to our games.

“I think, for any marketing campaign, if it makes noise, it can bring attention to the game. It had a high reach and everything like that so I think it was a positive thing.”

The campaign was originally met by a mix of people who sensed straight away there was a more serious idea behind it and those who actually thought Ladyball was to start appearing on shelves. One thing it did show, which Goldrick agrees with, is that a lot of people showed they care about women’s sport “Hopefully now it’s not just a social media or online reaction and that people actually follow through with it and start supporting by coming to the games and also watching our games when we’re on television,” she said.

Away from marketing campaigns, Goldrick reflected on 2015 on the club and county stage.

It was mixed year which ended with a fourth AllStar.

Sinead Goldrick at AIG’s launch of the 2016 Dublin season. Picture: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

She enjoyed Dublin and Leinster success with Foxrock Cabinteely before an All-Ireland club semi-final defeat to eventual champions Donaghmore.

There was also a second consecutive All-Ireland intercounty final defeat to Cork.

defeats Cork no doubt still hurt and Goldrick insists things have to change this year if they are to eventually topple with their Rebel rivals. “ O b v i o u s l y we ’ ve reached two All-Ireland final’s in the past two years and we haven’t got over the line so we need to

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‘Hopefully Ladyball will follow through and bring more attendance to our games’ Dublin star Sinead Goldrick

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“I suppose with the club, for us to win a Leinster title for the first time was a huge achievement,” she said.

“I know we wanted to go the whole way and it was hugely disappointing but for where our club is and for Foxrock Cabinteely, to win the Leinster title I think I look on that as a positive year in terms of club.

“In our semi-final we missed a lot of chances, a lot of goal chances, and Donaghmore went on to win it so it shows we are at that standard and we can compete for All-Ireland club finals.

“That gives us a lot of confidence in ourselves and hopefully this year the goal will be to win Dublin, Leinster and the All-Ireland.”

In terms of Dublin, those two back-to-back

kind of change what we’re doing this year.

“What we’re doing is not getting us our ultimate goal so I think we’ve all taken that on board and reviewing it as a completely new year, again focusing on one game and right now that’s Kerry,” said Goldrick.

That Kerry game kicks off the National League season on January 31 and despite a drive to catch Cork, the season opener is the only game on the mind.

“They would be one of the top four teams in Ireland so it will be good to see where we stand against them and where our fitness levels are.

“I think the ladies football league is very competitive, especially in Division 1 and we’ll want to see where we are in comparison to the other teams.”

Crusaders’ Hyland on the high road to victory CRUSADERS Marie Hyland clawed her way back to a comfortable victory in the women’s intermediate race at the GloHealth intermediate, masters, juvenile B and intercounty relays which were all held at Dundalk IT last Sunday.

It was one of the highlights of an actionpacked day of cross-country running.

In Hyland’s win, a whirlwind start by Catherine Whoriskey (City of Derry Spartans) saw her rocket into the lead from the gun setting a blistering pace.

Whoriskey looked like she was going to leave the field in her wake but the fast early pace caught up with her and Hyland closed the distance before pushing on to an impressive victory over 5km in 18.56. Catherina Mullen (Shercock) paced her race perfectly to come through and usurp Whoriskey for the silver in 19.11 with the daring Derry runner having to settle for third in 19.15.

Elsewhere, DSDAC’S Emer Fitzpatrick showed immense potential for the future with a comprehensive win in Hannut, Belgium As soon as the gun sounded, Fitzpatrick and Niamh Carey broke away from a top class field in what was a veritable mudbath.

The locals were astounded by the pace set by the two DSD athletes.

The early exertions told on Carey who was only beaten by a top Belgian athlete, by a few metres, for the silver medal. DSD ended up with four of the first 10 runners, making sure of a great team win in the Under-18 girls category.

The club also won well with their Under-18 team winning at Under-20 level.

This augurs well for the future as teams from Belgium, France, Germany and Holland were represented in a well organised event, where there were 30 races of every description.

Gazette

30 SWORDS gazette 28 January 2016

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: ennis cousins score in extra time for last 16 berth

FAI primary schools deadline approaches THE SPAR Primary School 5s programme kicks off again in 2016 with Friday, January 29 set as the deadline for schools in Dublin to enter.

The fun five-a-side schools competition, which is open to boys and girls from fourth, fifth and sixth class, will begin with a countywide blitz in Dublin this March with the winners progressing to regional, provincial and then the prestigious national finals in the Aviva Stadium on May 11.

In 2015, the boys’ A cup and girls’ A cup proved to be highly competitive. Our Lady of the Wayside emerged as winners of the boys ‘A’ Cup while Gaelscoil Cholmcille, Coolock won the girls’ competition.

The SPAR Primary School 5s Programme is a schools initiative organised by the Football Association of Ireland Schools (FAI Schools) and supported by SPAR. The competition attracts entries from nearly 20,000 students and more than 1,000 schools nationwide. With participation levels increasing year on year the grassroots programme is now the largest primary schools competition in the country.

Speaking about the programme Willie O’Byrne, managing director of BWG Foods (owners and operators of the SPAR brand in Ireland) said: “We are very proud to be involved with this programme which sees nearly 20,000 boys and girls get the chance to represent their schools on regional, provincial and even national levels. We’re looking forward to building on the success of last year.

FAI Schools are delighted to announce the launch of this year’s competition. Sean Carr, FAI Schools Chairman, added: “The competition is a wonderful opportunity for both boys and girls of all sporting ability to participate in a fun filled initiative with an emphasis on enjoyment and well-being. The pupils will be given the opportunity to showcase their talents in the Aviva Stadium at the National Finals. I would encourage all primary schools to sign up immediately”.

Information on entering the SPAR Primary School 5s Programme is available at www.spar. ie or www.faischools.ie Follow all the action live on social media using #SPAR5s.

The Malahide United NDSL Under-15 side

Malahide’s family affair

sfai under-15 cup

Freebooters Malahide United  nathan kelly sport@dublingazette.com

0 2

IT WAS a family affair as Malahide United’s Under15 NDSL Premier side advanced into the last 16 of the SFAI Cup with a 2-0 win in Kilkenny last Saturday.

Goals from the Ennis cousins Luke and Keith in the second period of extra-time did the business as Davy McGrady’s talented young troops beat Freebooters on their own turf in the national competition.

In what was a tight

game at Freebooters’ Fair Green ground, the visiting side took a while to settle.

Despite playing with the wind in a gusty first half, United failed to take advantage.

The hosts created little too with set-pieces causing much of the worry for both defences before they went in 0-0 at the break.

The second half followed the same suit although the north Dublin side improved greatly and had chances to win the game.

T he best chances arguably came to the home side however and McGrady will thank his keeper Sean Bohan for

portugal open Local duo in Montado for big competition skerries’ Maria Dunne, far left, and Forrest Little’s Julie McCarthy, fourth from right, will form part of a large Irish contingent to play in the 85th Portuguese international ladies amateur championship this week at the Montado Hotel and Golf Resort.

The championship will consist of 18 holes stroke play being played over four days, with the top 40 players and ties competing over a final 18 holes on Saturday to decide the champion.

keeping it scoreless going into extra-time.

The first period of extra-time saw both sides reluctant to throw too much forward but it was Malahide with more off the ball.

In the second period, they threw caution to the wind and went for it.

The deadlock was broken when Luke Ennis buried home after a scramble in the box. Just moments later, his cousin Keith doubled the lead when he brilliantly put away a Danny Taaffe cross.

Reflecting on the win afterwards, McGrady was proud of his side who are now the only remaining

Malahide team contending for SFAI glory this season.

“It’s great to keep going in the competition, the lads deserve for sticking to the task on a pitch that was a bit awkward,” he said.

“It was nice too that the lads both scored such big goals in front of their grandfather who had made the trip; that kind of thing makes it all a bit better,” added McGrady.

The season in general has been a good one for this side, who are second to St Kevin’s in the NDSL Premier, but the manager knows they need help from others to clinch the

title come May. “I’ve been happy enough with the season so far but, yes, looking at the league table, we’re really hoping St Kevin’s have a slip-up,” he admitted.

“We’ve still to play them again but we need someone to take points off them as well as ourselves to have a chance at winning the league.

“They beat us 3-1 earlier in the season; it was a decent game but we went 2-0 down pretty early on and.

“But we will keep taking it week-by-week and game-by-game and continue to keep the pressure on them.”

28 January 2016 SWORDS gazette 31

Gazette

senior success

Balbriggan school win camogie championship

Club Noticeboard FINGALLIANS A BIG thank you to Paul Flynn for visit-

loreto Balbriggan were crowned the

Dublin post-primary schools Senior C champions last Friday in Ringsend as they got the better of Holy Faith, Clontarf.

They were among the big winners on finals days with St Joseph’s, Lucan taking the Senior A title, Dunshauglin CS winning the B trophy while St Dominic’s of Cabra from the Senior A shield.

football: recurring groin injury to be rested

persons.

ing the nursery on Saturday morning

Good luck to Sarah Murray who will

with the Sam Maguire. The club are

compete in Scottish Seniors in the

currently scheduling a weekend night

60m and 200m next weekend.

in the club with the cup for the adult

After our Christmas break Texas

members. Check out our Facebook

Hold’em is back this Friday, January

page for a picture diary of the morn-

29. Entry will be €10 and it will be held

ing with Sam.

in the club bar from 8.30pm.

Membership 2016 forms are also

We are starting preparations for

available from the club bar, all man-

this year’s St Patrick’s Day parade.

agers and online on the club’s web-

Any members with ideas or wishing

site: www.fingallians.com (top right

to help out can contact the club on

of the home page).

fingallians@gmail.com

On Saturday evening, the Dublin

Irish dancing for adults is on every

senior footballers start their league

Monday in the club hall. It will take

campaign against Kerry at 7pm. Then,

place each Monday morning from

on Sunday afternoon, the Dublin sen-

10.30 to 11.30am. Beginners and sea-

ior ladies play the Kingdom in Parnell

soned pros are most welcome.

Park at 2pm. For ticket info for the

The club recycling drive 2016: Bags

Spring Series 2016, please go to www.

of all clean unwanted clothes, bed

dublingaa.ie/tickets.

linen, towels, shoes, bags and soft

Currently, our big pitch and Holy-

toys can be dropped into the club bar

well are both closed. Balheary is

any evening from 7 to 9pm or on Sat-

opened. To check availability, please

urday mornings from 10am to 12pm.

contact the adult or juvenile chair-

No household bric-a-brac.

ST FINIAN’S CONGRATULATIONS to Louise Greene

Get fit, learn the skills of Gaelic

mier junior camogie panel this week.

football and make new friends. No

Best of luck, Louise.

previous experience needed. For

We have a family quiz upstairs in Peacock’s restaurant next SaturPaul Flynn brought the Sam Maguire trophy to the Fingallians’ academy last weekend

Fin’s Flynn to miss early part of league

 sport@dublingazette.com

PAUL Flynn confirmed this week he will miss the early stages of the national league as attempts to get over a recurring groin injury.

L a s t y e a r p r ove d a similar story as he missed the early phases of the competition due to surgery in early January before returning to the field in March to meet Tyrone.

And the four-time AllStar is hoping that he can get back into full fitness for the mid-section of the league this year with a view to helping

Dublin win back-to-back All-Ireland crowns.

Speaking at the launch of the Setanta coverage of the national league, the Fingallians’ man said he “got through last year” but the issues never fully went away. “ I just had to manage my training a bit better. I needed to rest it. When we finished up, I went back playing with the club and it just got worse and worse.

“I wasn’t doing them any favours and I definitely wasn’t doing myself any favours. So I gave it the rest it needed.”

He feels that getting his body in perfect condition is on track though he says that there are still concerns on his mind about the injury.

“The one thing that any player or athlete worries about is their fitness.

“If you can keep the body good and you can train hard you can give everything every time, every game.

“So yeah, obviously I’d be worried about it.

“The rehab has been going well and there has been no reaction so far.”

He a dded tha t it played a role in him not

quite reaching the stellar heights of 2014 in 2015 though he was still a hugely important cog in Jim Gavin’s side.

“Every game I felt my passes were finding the man [in 2014], I was going to win the kickouts, I was going to find myself in the right place for breaks.

“Everything felt like it was easy, in my own head it was easy.

“I definitely didn’t hit the heights last year. I probably played as well, if not better, than I did in 2011. It’s just that your own standards are rising each year,” he said.

Thursday evening at 9pm.

who was called up to the Dublin pre-

further information, contact Anne on 087 6109452.

day, January 30 from 5pm to 7pm

Please ensure early payment of

to raise funds for the girls LGFA/

membership fees, through our web-

camogie Feile. The Dublin vs Kerry

site homepagewww.stfinians.com.

senior football league match will be televised after the quiz.

Please also remember, it is possible to get 30 years club membership

Well done to all our hurling teams

of St Finian’s GAA Club for €1,000,

who played in the Gormanstown

or €1,500 for a couple. Contact Pat

indoor hurling tournament. Some

Farrell on 087 2506511 for further

very good and exciting games.

details.

Gaelic4Mothers and others are

The lotto jackpot was €1,800 this

looking for new players so if you

week and the numbers drawn were

fancy a new challenge, why not head

3, 12, 13 and 21. There was no jackpot

over to the Community Centre every

winner.

FINGAL Ravens THERE will be a mass for deceased

member.

members of Fingal Ravens on Satur-

Some fabulous prizes are on offer

day, January 30 at 6pm in Rolestown

including the top prize of a new Opel

church.

Corsa. Anyone who purchases a tick-

The juvenile awards night is in Ket-

et for the GAA national club draw 2016

tles Hotel on Friday, February 5 from

from Fingal Ravens will be entered into

6.30pm. We will be presenting player of

a separate draw with a chance to win

the year and most improved player of

two tickets to the All-Ireland football

the year to teams who competed from

final 2016.

U-9s to U-16s in 2015; hope to see you all there.

2016 club membership is now due; forms are available in the clubhouse or

The GAA national club draw 2016

can be downloaded from our Facebook

tickets are only €10 each and are on

page or can be done online on www.

sale now; contact Maura Norton on

myclubfinances.com.

087 9936458 or Bernadette Kavanagh on 087 9397642 or any committee

All membership must be paid in full

by March 31.

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

jan 28 - Feb 3, 2016

freebooting: Malahide United advance to last 16 of the ladyball launch: Goldrick hopeful furore will national competition with win over Kilkenny side P30 lead to increased crowds P29

GCD Swords Thunder’s Isaac Westbrooks on the attack in the club’s semi-final win over UCC Demons

Baking up Thunder storm

Swords basketball is building up to their biggest ever night as they zone in on the men’s national cup final date withTempleogue

 nathan kelly

sport@dublingazette.com

THE biggest night of GCD Swords Thunder’s arrives this Saturday in the National Basketball Arena when they take on Templeogue in the Hula Hoops men’s National Cup Final.

The Arena will host a feast of national finals over the course of the weekend but the seven days leading up to it are often labelled “the longest week of the year” for those involved in basketball on these shores.

It’s a saying that Swords head coach Dave Baker agreed with as GazetteSport spoke to him in the lead-up to Saturday’s massive game.

“We’re all very much looking forward it; the

whole club is excited, but I just wish it would come faster. The waiting around gets to you a bit.”

Swords reached the final after an underdog triumph over UCC Demons in Cork earlier this month. The 103-82 win was accomplished through Thunder completely upsetting the Demons’ rhythm, something Baker said he would look to do when we last spoke before the semi-final.

“I’ll admit I’m a bit of a freak when it comes to preparation,” he said quite bluntly. “Perhaps others wouldn’t obsess over stats and tapes before a game but I do.

“When I was looking back on tapes of Demons, I noticed certain flaws in their play

and gaps that were there to exploit. It was all well and good me spotting that but, credit to the team, they took on board what I said and implemented the gameplan perfectly.”

Saturday brings another challenge in the form of Templeogue. The sides have met twice in the Premier Division already this season, with the south Dublin side winning the first game 81-80 at home back in October. Two weeks ago, Swords got revenge with an 80-69 win on their home court, but Baker is reading little into those results.

“It’s a cup final on Saturday, anything can happen on the day,” he said. “They are a good side; I think they have a couple of injury worries but still have plenty of talent.

“They’ve also just brought in Paddy Kelly, an ex-Irish international who was named the sixth best Irish player of all-time in a recently published list. We haven’t got any hidden gems like that for Saturday but we’ll be confident enough.

“It’ll also be a different atmosphere for sure.

The place will be packed; there’ll be a lot of media attention and the game will be live on television.

“With that said, I think my group of players are quite grounded and will deal with any added pressure.

“The likes of Kevin Lacey, Isaac Westbrooks and Alex Dolenko all have plenty of experience in big games, as do others in the squad so I’m not worried about that.”