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Check out The Gazette’s tips for a cracking weekend of Easter fun

see page 12 March 28, 2013

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Month XX, 2012 Swords • Balbriggan • Applewood • boroimhe • Airside • Rivervalley

INSIDE: Walking in celebrity shoes to support mental health services for youngsters Page 10

Donabate:

Anger as pitch remains closed after 18 months Page 32

Dublin Sport: March Award nominations announced Page 28

Ghost estates to pay new tax  Natalie Burke

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES.......................6 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................27

life lesson: Overdose experience prompts local to write for teens Page 8

Residents in a number of housing estates across Dublin North will have to pay the new local property tax (LPT) this year, despite being exempt from last year’s household charge due to their estates being classed as “unfinished”.

Senator Darragh O’Brien (FF) has expressed his shock at the Govern-

ment’s decision saying it will come as news to people living in these estates who “feel abandoned by developers and stuck without the amenities and services they paid for”.

Fingal County Council stated that “it was determined that no estate was ‘incomplete to a substantial extent’”, therefore “no estate is exempted from LPT”.

Full Story on Page 4

Shamrockin’ in Swords: Plenty of fun for all on St Patrick’s Day jamie, Keith, Robyn and Tracy Dunne were among the hundreds of people who turned out to enjoy this year’s St Patrick’s Day parade in Swords. The parade, which lasted almost 90 minutes, was host to community groups, marching bands, local sporting clubs and

organisations, an array of colourful floats and Irish military vehicles to name but a few. The parade formed the centrepiece of a weekend of festivities, including a ceili mor and the Viking Village Festival and Market.

Picture: Una Williams

See Gallery on Pages 6-7

2 swords gazette 28 March 2013

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COURTS Coach has five previous convictions

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A high-ranking boxing official was told in the Central Criminal Court that if he reoffended he’d serve every day of his three-year suspended sentence

Boxer avoids jail for headbutting ex-friend A HIGH-R ANK ING b ox i n g o f f i c i a l h a s avoided jail for headbutting a man af ter an amateur exhibition bout.

Judge Mar y Ellen Ring had previously told Ciaran O’Neill (37) that was “most likely” going to jail him after hearing he has five previous convictions, including two for assault.

However she took into account his guilty plea and €1,500 compensation he had for the victim and imposed a suspended three-year term.

T he judge warned O’Neill that he will ser ve “ever y day of those three years” if he reoffends.

She told the man that he had “disgraced himself, his family and the general community by displaying uncontrol-

lable violence” in front of an international contingent of boxers.

O’Neill, who is involved at a “very high level” in the Irish Amateur Boxing Association, assaulted his former best friend outside the pub which hosted the series of fights between Welsh and Irish boxers.

T he former boxer, who is also the head coach at Balbriggan’s Bracken Boxing Club, was one of the main organisers of the event.

His defence counsel said he was held in very high regard in the boxing community and that people were “queuing up” to give character references.

Several testimonials were handed in, including one from Olympic gold medal-winning boxer Michael Carruth, and another stating that

O’Neill’s actions were “out of character”.

O’Neill has five previous convictions including two for assault, one for intimidating a witness and one for making threats.

Judge Ring commented that in light of his previous convictions, the attack did not seem very “out of character”.

She said that he had been treated leniently by the other courts and that the alternatives have not worked.

O’Neill of Chieftain’s Drive, Balbriggan, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing harm to Derek Gildea at the Milestone Bar in Balbriggan on January 29, 2010.

Garda Ciara Mannion told prosecuting counsel James Dwyer BL that Mr Gildea was

attending the exhibition match upstairs in the pub when O’Neill approached him and told him he wasn’t welcome, that he was barred and that he should “f*** off”.

Mr Gildea responded that he had a right to be there and had paid in.

The door staff stepped in and said Mr Gildea was entitled to stay.

T here were several other exchanges between them before the end of the night when Mr Gildea went outside.

A group of people, including O’Neill, were about to go to another pub, and O’Neill told Mr Gildea that he wasn’t welcome to join them.

He then approached the victim and headbutted him, leaving him with a black eye and

a broken plate in his dentures. There was a further scuffle during which the victim was punched.

O’Neill was arrested and said in interview that he used to be friends with Mr Gildea, but would not say what caused their falling out.

Defence counsel John Byrne BL said the pair used to be best friends and would spar together in the boxing club before Mr Gildea quit.

Counsel said O’Neill refereed boxing at a national and international level and was also involved in helping troubled youths and members of the Travelling community through the sport.

He added that he had €1,500 as compensation and that the victim was prepared to accept this.

28 March 2013 swords gazette 3

in the ring Barnardos seeks 30 participants

The Wright place to box for charity The Wright Venue in Swords is getting ready to host a white collar boxing event in aid of children’s charity Barnardos Ireland on Friday, May 31.

Barnardos is seeking 30 participants to enter the ring on the night and put their skills to

the test, and training will begin mid April. The event is being organised

by FundraisingFightNights.ie, and will see 15 fights across a variety of weight classes take place on the night.

“We provide the fastest growing, high adrenalin,

sports and entertainment social nights out in Ireland. All of the fighters spend six weeks in training camp getting ready for their fight night,” explains Conor Ahern of FundraisingFightNights.ie.

“We encourage and support everybody that

comes through our doors to adapt the fighter’s philosophy of training regularly, eating intelligently, drinking responsibly and living wisely.”

For more information and for registration details, email info@fundraisingfightnights.ie.

Lucky: Facebook winner pictured aRE mar-

keting manager of the Swords Pavilion Deirdre King, with local woman Josephine Marks, who won the shopping centre’s Mother’s Day Facebook competition. Josephine won many prizes, including a Swords Pavilions €500 gift card, Butlers Chocolate Experience of a cookery class for two and two VIP movie passes to Movies @Swords.

FINGAL: STUDENTs among 5,500 in national event

Pupils meet to talk about social change  NATALIE BURKE nburke@gazettegroup.com

STUDENTS from Fingal Community College in Swords gathered at The Red Cow Hotel recently, in an effort to speak out about the social issues that most concern them, as well as offering solutions for tackling them.

The local students were among 5,500 young people from across Ireland who are participating in this year’s Young Social Innovators’ Social Innovation Programme. The programme is open to 15 to 18-year-olds to help give them the skills and know-how to bring about change in their communi-

ties and wider society.

The event was officially launched at the Red Cow Hotel on Wednesday, March 20, by David Burns, an adventurer, philanthropist and cofounder of Sand2Snow Adventures. The Fingal Community College students, along with representatives from a number of other Irish schools, spoke out on issues ranging from sudden adult death syndrome and farm safety, to food poverty and school stress.

Throughout the month of March, Young Social Innovators (YSI) will host 15 regional Speak Out events including its first ever event in Bel-

fast, where the YSI programme is being run on a pilot basis this year. Over 42,000 young people have participated in the programme since it was first founded in 2001. Under a new partnership with Vodafone Ireland, the YSI aims to build an empowered network of 100,000 young social innovators by 2015.

Speaking at the event, Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, chairperson and cofounder of the YSI, congratulated the students on having “fresh and insightful ideas” on some of society’s most pressing problems.

“Your creative and energetic approach is

vital to changing society. You have proven that we can have a brighter future with the next generation guiding us,” she said. “Irish people are renowned for our ability to talk. We need now to place increased emphasis on listening, especially to our young people. Given that 2013 is the European Year of the Citizen, it is all the more important that young people as youth citizens feel empowered in their role as social innovators. Young people bring fresh thinking and new perspectives to issues that most of us grapple with. We need to listen to them and support their actions,” she added.

4 swords gazette 28 March 2013

council Waiver list shortened gardai: St Patrick’s Day

Public order issues down  natalie burke

nburke@gazettegroup.com

Senator Darragh O’Brien (FF), demanded an immediate explanation as to why 38 “unfinished” estates across Fingal are now eligible for the property tax

Ghost estates liable for levy  Natalie Burke

Residents in a number of housing estates across Dublin North will have to pay the new local property tax (LPT) this year, despite being exempt from last year’s household charge due to their estates being classed as “unfinished”.

Householders in estates such as Belmayne in Clongriffin, Drinan in Kinsealy, Knocksedan in Swords, Golden Ridge in Rush and Hampton Gardens in Balbriggan learned this week that their estates are no longer defined as “unfinished” and will be liable for the LPT. Overall, 64 ghost estates and seriously sub-standard developments across Dublin city and council were exempt from last year’s household charge.

Just one of these – Priory Hall - will now be exempt from the LPT while the remaining 63 will be eligible.

Senator Darragh O’Brien (FF) , based in Dublin North, has expressed his shock at the government’s decision and has demanded an immediate explanation as to why 38 “unfinished” estates across Fingal are

now eligible for the tax.

“It was only right that these 38 estates in Fingal were exempt from the household charge last year. In fact there were other unfinished estates, like Waterside in Malahide, which should also have been exempt. Many residents of these estates paid way over the odds for what is now a seriously devalued home and are living in unfinished surroundings with no realistic commitment to completion in sight,” he said.

“The government has tried to justify this by claiming that many of these unfinished estates here in Fingal and across Dublin have miraculously been completed and fixed over the past year.

This will come as news to people living in clearly unfinished estates who feel abandoned by developers and stuck without the amenities and services they paid for.”

Senator O’Brien says that questions also remain about homes badly damaged from pyrite also being liable for the property tax.

A spokesperson for the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government said

the waiver list was compiled by the department from information supplied by the local authority itself and residents should contact their local authority to ask why an estate was not exempt.

According to a spokesperson for Fingal County Council: “The Finance (Local Property Tax) Act of 2012 sets out criteria under which properties may claim exemption from the tax.

“In addition to this, the Department of Environment established a set of criteria using the updated information from the 2012 National Housing Development Survey, one of which is the ‘seriously problematic condition’ criterion in determining what estates or part thereof would qualify for an exemption from the LPT. “This list was applied by council engineers in assessing previously exempted estates in Fingal, and it was determined that no estate was ‘incomplete to a substantial extent’ and satisfied the ‘seriously problematic condition’, therefore no estate is exempted from the LPT,” the spokesperson concluded.

Local gardai in Dublin North have reported a quiet bank holiday weekend, following the recent St Patrick’s Day celebrations.

While the celebrations and the Swords St Patrick’s Day parade were as popular and busy as ever in the Dublin North area, it was a relatively quiet bank holiday weekend on the public order front.

According to a senior Garda spokesperson, the weekend was a “great success with very little crime or public orders” taking place.

T he spokesperson said the cold weather was just one of the factors contributing to this success.

“I don’t think last year was particularly a great day but the amount of underage drinking and public order issues emanating from that last year certainly weren’t replicated this year,” the garda explained.

“So we’re putting it down to a variety of things. It was a small bit to do with the weather but mostly to do with the fact that we had plenty of gardai presence out.

“We also asked for the cooperation of all licensees highlighting potential issues that could impact on a peaceful St Patrick’s Day. We feel that they acted very responsibly and that certainly contributed to a very peaceful and joyful family orientated St Patrick’s Day,” he concluded.

28 March 2013 swords gazette 5

libraries

courts: gardai seek witnesses to shopping centre robberies

Discuss a book you just hate!

Man charged over two armed raids A man from north Dublin has been charged in Dublin District Court in connection with two armed robberies which took place in north Dublin in recent weeks.

He was charged with an armed cash-in-transit robbery of €10,000 worth of cash which occurred at Donaghmede Shopping Centre on March 23. He was also charged with a robbery at Clare Hall Shopping Centre, which took place on March 14 and resulted in the robbery of sterling notes to the value of approximately €17,614, as well as over €5,000 worth of US dollars.

He was remanded in prison until March 27 when he will appear in

court in Cloverhill.

A t a p p r ox i m a t e l y 9.30am on March 23, it is believed that the man approached and threatened security staff as they transferred cash from a fast food outlet at Donaghmede Shopping Centre before making off with a sum of cash in a silvercoloured car. There were no reported injuries and no shots fired during the incident.

He was later arrested in the Kinsealy area. He was then detained under section 30 of the Offences against the State Act 1939 at Coolock Garda Station.

During his appearance in Dublin District Court on Monday, March 25, he was also charged with

a second armed robbery which occurred at Clare Hall Shopping Centre on March 14.

The robbery occurred at approximately 10.30am when two males approached and threatened an employee to hand over a cash box.

One of the two men is believed to have been in possession of a firearm and to have fled the scene in a waiting car.

A cash box and all the cash were recovered. The firearm was also discovered close by.

Garda investigations are ongoing and witnesses or anyone with information on either robberies are asked to contact Coolock Garda Station on 01 6664200.

On litter watch: Warden and dog patrol Sea Walk to keep area clean pictured aRE Fingal Litter Warden Wendy Byrne with the

patrol dog Ella, as they start their patrol along the Sea Walk from Malahide to Portmarnock. Together they meet dog owners and passers-by to raise awareness of dog fouling problems. The three-year-old golden Labrador Retriever is always a talking point with dog walkers, and helps Wendy to start a conversation about the obligations of dog owners to clean up after their animals. Last year was the first year of their pilot initiative.

FINGAL Libraries are inviting members to submit “pithy, witty comments” for World Book Night, which takes place on Tuesday, April 23.

In Room 101 For Books, they are asking members to state what book they consider “an overblown waste of a tree”; what novel has “absolutely no merit”, and what “interminable book” have they suffered through.

Members can write their choice and reason on paper and drop it into their local Fingal library, or they can post a comment on the Facebook page at www.facebook. com/fingallibraries.

Those with the best suggestions and arguments will be invited to Malahide Library on World Book Night at 7pm.

6 swords gazette 28 March 2013

gazetteGALLERIES

Participants marching through the parade

Parader strutting his Locals are impressed by this old steam engine

stuff

Children and adults braving the cold to have a rocking great time in Swords. Pictures: Una Williams

28 March 2013 swords gazette 7

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Kira Duff

Swords Cricket Club Jamie, Keith, Robyn and Tracy Dunne

TV3’s Aidan Cooney interviewed Joe Corr

Jack Duff

st patrick’s day: MARCHING GREEN

Shamrockin’ in Swords H

UNDREDS of people braved the cold weather and donned their best green outfits to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Swords.

The crowds gathered wearing leprechaun hats and shamrocks to watch the colourful floats in the parade and people dressed up in various costumes.

Amongst those marching through the parade was Peppa Pig, who delighted the young children. Many local groups also participated in the parade, including the Swords Cricket Club, Danielle Moran’s Irish Dancing School, Swords Boxing Club, the Fingal Ethnic Network and the Fingal Living History Society.

Both adults and children alike had a great day, and they are all looking forward to next year’s parade.

Peppa Pig greeting the Swords Boxing Club in the ring

crowds

The Danielle Moran Irish Dancing School stepping through the parade

Sashi and Ivo Miltchev

8 swords gazette 28 March 2013

Recognition Swords Express ‘delighted with progress made in past year’

Local bus firm transported by prestigious win  Natalie burke nburke@gazettegroup.com

A SWORDS-BASED bus company has been named Passenger Transport Company of the Year.

The privately-owned Swords Express firm picked up the

much coveted title at the recently held 2013 Irish Logistics and Transport Awards.

A popular local bus for those commuting to the city centre, the Swords Express operates a premium coach service from Swords to Dublin city centre via the Port Tunnel. In the

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face of challenging economic conditions, rising fuel prices and an increasingly competitive market, Swords Express, which is owned and operated by Eirebus Ltd, has more than doubled its fleet size and impressively increased its revenue and passenger numbers

in the last 12 months.

Owner and managing director of Eirebus/Swords Express Paddy Kavanagh said the company owes its success to a “customer centric approach not readily found elsewhere in the passenger transport industry”.

“In its six years of operation,

Swords Express has shown robust growth and, in particular, the past 12 months have really seen the company flourish. We really pride ourselves on listening to our customers and responding rapidly, and we have made important changes to the operation as a direct

result of valuable feedback received in 2012. We know, and play to, our strengths and this is why we continue to grow. We are delighted with the progress we have made in the past year and we hope to continue this growth in 2013 and beyond,” he said.

daRK LINe: overdose experience prompts local man to write

Drug struggle used in novel for teens  Natalie Burke

nburke@gazettegroup.com

Five years ago, Balbriggan man Patrick Bentley nearly died of an overdose of cocaine.

This year, the local writer has just published his second book entitled Dark Line, a novel aimed at preventing teenagers treading down the wrong paths of life.

Coming from a background of being in institutions such as St Laurence’s in Finglas and being abused as a child, Patrick found himself getting involved with drugs but gradually, and gratefully, found a way out.

“I survived it and got counselling and when I came out of it, I decided to write my autobiography,” he said.

“When I wrote the last chapter of my autobiography about the overdose, it was at that point I came to the realisation that I could write a fullblown novel for teenagers, giving them a better understanding of the dangers of getting into drugs and how evil it is, how it will destroy your future, your child prospects and everything.

“So that’s really where the idea came from – from writing the auto-

Patrick Bentley who recently published his second book entitled Dark Line

biography. And I took it from there.”

Self-published by 49-year-old Patrick, Dark Line tells a story similar to his own, and is set in areas across Fingal.

While his own story was told in his first book, an autobiography entitled The Jagged Halo, his most recent writing tells the story of a young teacher getting caught up in the drug culture of Dublin “The social scene of today and the gangs of today are all entailed into the story. I suppose it is part fiction and

partly the truth of what’s going on today,” he said.

Patrick will be selling his story door-to-door, as well as in a number of local shops in Dublin North areas over the next few weeks.

Although he leads a positive life today, Patrick revisits his darker days through his writing, in an effort to help others refrain from travelling down a similar path.

“The book is for parents with teenagers and warns of dangers of getting involved with drug culture,” he explains.

“It comes from a differ-

ent angle about how evil drugs are, and the dangers of getting into it. So for young people, it’s to really highlight how dangerous it is to open that door into drugs.”

While the book is primarily aimed at teenagers and their parents, Patrick says it is a book that can be read by all ages.

“I’ve had people in their 70s and 80s who have read it and loved it.

It’s not just about drugs, there’s a whole story there. It goes into spirituality as well.”

“When I’m at the door

talking to parents, I give them my phone number so a few of them were asking me to come back after they finish reading the book, and sit with their teenagers with supervision and help explain to teenagers the dangers involved with drug use.”

Dark Line is out now and available from a range of local stockists across Fingal.

For more details , v i s i t P a t r i c k B e n tley’s Facebook page; w w w.facebook.com/ p a g e s / P a t r i c k- b e n tley/348334808561040.

28 March 2013 swords gazette 9

donabate Council reveals proposed plans for works

Community centre set to house library  Natalie Burke nburke@gazettegroup.com

PROPOSED plans released last week by Fingal County Council have revealed that Donabate’s community centre will be the official home for a brand new librar y for the town.

The Council last week revealed their proposal for plans to build the brand new and muchneeded facility for the town. It will be built on the first floor of the

local Donabate community centre.

According to a spokewoman at the council’s community department, the space in question would allow for the council to deliver a state-of-the-art modern community library for the local area and all its residents. She said the proposed layout for the new library was last week shown to representatives of the board of the community centre, who said they were “very pleased” with the

proposal.

The council also assures locals that all existing users of the centre will continue to be accommodated, despite the changes.

Local Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) welcomed the announcement, saying it was “brilliant news” for the local communities who are set to benefit from the new facility.

“The plans look great and this is brilliant news for Donabate and Portrane. I would like

Proposed plans for the new library at Donabate community centre

to congratulate Fingal County Council and the board of the community centre for all of their hard work in pushing this project forward and I look forward to seeing this facility open hopefully later this year,” he said.

“It is great that all existing users at the centre will continue to be accommodated. Well

done to all involved,” he added.

The current plans and proposed layout for the library will be displayed at the centre for members of the public to view from this week.

The proposed layout plans include an adult reading section and a young adult section, complete with a special reading area. The plans

also include an area for children’s books, with a white magnetic board and bean bags. A quiet area will offer library users access to the internet, and the plans also accommodate space for a staff workroom and office, as well as toilet facilities.

The project is on target for completion in the latter quarter of 2013.

workplace FedEx officially the best FedEx Express has been officially named as one of the best workplaces in Ireland 2013, according to the Great Places to Work Institute Ireland which run the annual listing.

The company, which is based in Swords, ranked 10th out of the mediumsized companies in Ireland. FedEx Express is a subsidiary of FedEx Corp, the world’s largest express transportation company.

The winning companies receive the award for their desire to dramatically improve working culture, as well as building employee trust and creating a rewarding cycle of personal contribution and appreciation, whilst delivering outstanding business performance.

10 swords gazette 28 March 2013

gazetteGALLERY

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Kate Moran and Rachel Armstrong

Model Alison Canavan, who recently attended the Walk In My Shoes charity night at Fitzpatrick’s Shoes on Grafton Street

Walk in my shoes for mental health charity F

ITZPATRICK’S Shoes on Grafton Street recently hosted a special showcase of a celebrity shoe exhibition in its store.

The exhibition marked St Patrick’s Hospital Foundation’s Walk in My Shoes initiative, which provides mental health services to

Roz Flanagan

vulnerable young adults throughout Ireland.

Celebrity shoes on show included U2’s Adam Clayton, golfers Rory McIlroy, Darren Clarke and Padraig Harrington, The Saturday’s Una Healy, signer Nicky Byrne and his wife Georgina, The Late Late Show

Sandra, Georgina and Darcey Carr

host Ryan Tubridy, TV personalities Lorraine Keane and Sybil Mulcahy, and rugby stars Rob Kearney and Brian O’Driscoll.

Guests on the night included model Alison Canvan, Roz Flanagan, Danielle Meaghar, Joanne Hynes, who all donated shoes.

Emily MacKeogh

Astrid Brennan and Nicola Meyer

Lydia Tierney and Amy Nolan

28 March 2013 Gazette 11

Gazette

dublinlife

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools

asdfsdaf businessP27 P16



schools P14

easter fun P12

Kilimanjaro: fundraising night at the dogs

Off to the races to benefit Roof Of Africa expedition K ilkenny hurling star Brian Hogan was on hand to kick off a fundraising night at the dogs at Harold’s Cross greyhound stadium, which will raise money for sick children.

The event will be held from 7.30pm on April 5 in aid of the aptly named Tallamanjaro Ospideal Climb 2013.

The climb will see greyhound stadium general manager Philip Peake

and volunteers made up of doctors, nurses and Tallaght IT students head to Kenya on May 18.

There, they will climb the highest peak in Africa as part of an expedition that will last for 10 days.

The money raised will be used to purchase specialised equipment for children going to theatre in the National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght.

Climbing Kilimanjaro for The National Chil-

dren’s Hospital Tallaght was the brainchild of the late climber Ian McKeever, who was a regular visitor to the hospital.

Commenting on the climb Eleanor O’Leary, head of anaesthetists at the National Children’s Hospital said that the group were anxious to start.

“Fifteen of us depart for Kilimanjaro in May and we are excited about reaching the Roof Of

Africa - the highest free standing mountain in the world.

“Monies raised from this climb will purchase essential equipment for the operating theatre in Tallaght Hospital.”

Mountaineer Mike O’Shea is leading the expedition with Brian and comedian Maeve Higgins, who have come on board as ambassadors.

For more information log on to www.igb.ie

Philip Peake (second from right), greyhound stadium general manager, with volunteers

Gazette

12 Gazette 28 March 2013

dublinlife

DIARY President set to attend traditional music finals The finals of the Siansa Gael Linn music competition will be held this April in the National Concert Hall. Siansa is a competition in which traditional music groups from around Ireland vie for a prize fund of €4,500.

The eight qualifying groups that have made it to the finals will all perform in front of special guest of honour president Michael D Higgins.

Gael Linn is an organisation which promotes the Irish language and Irish heritage in Ireland and is a non-profit body. The concert will be compered

by Aine Hensey, RTE Raidio na Gaeltachta on Sunday, April 14 in the NCH at 7.30pm. Tickets cost €12 and €6 for students and are available from www.nch.ie.

holiday: there’s something for everyone in our guide

Tips for a cracking weekend of Easter fun

The kids are off school and spring might just finally be in the air.

With that in mind, the Gazette has sourced the best events and camps dotted around the M50 this Easter.

In Dublin 15, Dublin Zoo has a very egg-citing line up for the Easter weekend, which includes keeper talks about the bird’s eggs and chicks at the zoo, face painting, arts and crafts and an Easter Bunny disco on Easter Sunday (only). See www.dublinzoo.ie for further details.

Soccer Sisters camps are happening across Dublin including Ongar, Castleknock, Swords and Malahide. This is an FAI programme that aims to encourage more girls to start playing soccer.

There are venues nationwide and it’s for girls aged seven to 12yrs, who can learn to play soccer in a fun, friendly and safe environment. For further info email soccersisters@fai.ie or phone 01 8999559.

Blanchardstown Centre has a feast of events over the Easter holidays. The Woolly Wards Petting Zoo is at the centre from 1-4pm March 28 and 29.

The Easter Bunny Mad Hatter Party takes place on Saturday, March 30 from 1-4pm with live entertainment for all the family including a Mad Hatter Magic Show and Disco, Spot Prizes, Arts and Crafts. While on Easter Monday, April 1 Jack Flash magic shows, arts and crafts, and face painting will take place between 1- 4pm. See www.blanchardstown-

centre.ie.

Meanwhile, Farmleigh Estate’s Food Market is back on Sunday, March 31 from 10am until 5.15pm.

Newbridge House and Farm will be hosting an Easter Eggcitement event over the Easter holidays this year. From March 23 until April 7, from 10am until 5pm, families can take the Easter egg and treats hunt tour throughout Newbridge House.

Costing just €10 per child (one adult free with each paying child, additional adults €5), the event also includes access to the farm. For more information, call 01 8436534 or visit www.newbridgehouseandfarm.com.

Put a bounce into your little bunny’s step at the Swords Pavilions this Easter with The Mad Hatter’s Easter Egg Hunt taking place on Saturday, March 30. Meet The Mad Hatter at the information desk at 1pm and help him look for the Swords Pavilions Easter Egg with lots of fun for all and lots of prizes to be won. The shopping centre will also have arts, crafts and facepainting from 1pm until 3pm.

See www.pavilions.ie for more details.

Join Alice, the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts for a day of Easter fun in the Secret Walled Garden of Malahide Castle on Saturday, March 30. The family day out will feature a special Easter egg trail, facepainting and cupcake decorating. Tickets are priced at €12 per child and €7 per adult. For more information, visit www.malahide-

Join Alice, the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts for a day of Easter fun in the Secret Walled Garden of Malahide Castle

castleandgardens.ie or call 01 8169538. Tickets must be booked in advance.

The Ardgillan Castle Easter Egg Trail will be supported by Cadbury this year, one of 20 events across Ireland to be chosen by the famous chocolate brand. The trail will take place on Monday, April 1 at 3pm and is welcoming all families and members of the community to take part. Entry fee is €3 per child and all proceeds go towards the upkeep of the Castle see www.ardgillancastle.ie.

In Lucan and Clondalkin, there is plenty to keep children happy over the Easter break.

From Friday, March 29 until Monday, April 1, Liffey Valley Shopping Centre will welcome the Wizard, as they ask shoppers to follow the yellow brick road.

From 12-4pm, Liffey Valley’s own version of Oz will feature fantasy and fairy tales from Dorothy, the Cowardly Lion and Scarecrow and magical entertainment from the Tin Man. Visitors will

also be able to stir up a whirlwind with the Wicked Witch of the West and cast a spell with the Good Witch Glinda.

There will also be plenty of Easter camps around the area, with Lucan Leisure Centre running a kid’s camp for boys and girls aged five to 15.

Activities include basketball, football, tennis, arts and crafts, and many more. The camp will run from April 2 to April 5 and the cost is €52 for a first child and €47 for a second child.

All activities are fully insured and there are small numbers in each group. Email info@ lucanleisure.com or call 01 6241930.

Clondalkin Leisure Centre will also hold Easter camps, also spanning the five to 15 age range from April 2 to April 5.

The cost is €52 for one child and €47 for a second child.

Call 01 4523300 for more information.

Easter will be choc full of interesting things to do in Dun Laoghaire-Rath-

down this year with a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party in Deer Park on March 31 from 1pm to 5pm. Everyone is welcome to this free event run by Dun LaoghaireRathdown County Council and all are encouraged to wear their craziest hats to attend.

Dundrum Town Centre’s Miss Ali Stage School is running an Easter Camp for children aged five to seven in Hamley’s Toy Store. From April 1 to 5, a host of entertainment will be on offer for creative children to let off some steam during the Easter break.

The Easter Camp will have drama, dance and art workshops as well as games and a planned big trip.

In Dun Laoghaire, the National Sailing School on the West Pier is holding an Easter camp for children interested in all things nautical.

The camp starts on April 2 and runs until April 5 and there will be plenty of expert training given by the sailing school over the four days.

28 March 2013 Gazette 13

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14 Gazette 28 March 2013

dublinlife

schoolLife

Get involved with Gazette schools pages and become a real writer or photographer CALLING all students! Dublin Gazette Newspapers continue to reach out to schools in our catchment areas so that we become a closer part of our community than ever before.

Schools are the beating hearts of communities; one of the last places around which a community can gather.

We want all budding writers and photographers from all of our schools to help fill the pages and, in order to encourage the next generation of journalists and snappers to get involved, we are partnering with Harvey Norman to present the Dublin Gazette Newspapers’ Cub Reporter and Cub Photographer of the Year awards.

For more details, contact rheigh@gazettegroup.com or telephone Rob Heigh at 01 601 0240.

schools

trip: fifth year students enjoy visit to siemens plant

A fascinating insight  erica o’sullivan Fingal Community College

A NUMBER of fifth year LCVP students at Fingal Community College were treated to several talks recently by employees of Siemens Diagnostics as part of an enterprise education initiative.

In December, the students took part in mock interviews in the Siemens Diagnostic plant in Swords.

The interviews were organised to give students an insight into the process of applying and interviewing for a job.

In order to participate in the interview, students

had to have sent a cover letter and CV to Siemens in advance and arrive in full interview attire.

All students were given feedback on how their interview went. Every student left the room grateful to have taken part.

At the end of February, the students were invited to the Siemens Diagnostics plant in Swords as part of Engineer’s Week.

The students were given a tour of the plant and were treated to several talks by different employees of Siemens.

They engaged the fifth years in a very interesting talk on Siemens and the production of high-quali-

ty and accurate products for the medical industry.

The students were also given advice on creating a CV and interview preparation.

The students were especially impressed by a short film that brought the manufacturing process to life.

All members of LCVP have gained insight into the enterprise in the Swords area, learning that Siemens employs 300 people in the town.

As a result of their experience, the students decided to make a short film as part of a feedback session to thank Siemens for what they had learned, and the

Students gained an understanding of Siemens’ diverse work in Swords

students hope that they can share what they have learned and help others to prepare for an interview through the film.

The film was planned and created in three weeks and will be presented to

Siemens at a later date.

All LCVP students would like to thank their teachers, Ms Gibson and Ms Hynan, as well as Fedelma, the schools business liason [official] with Siemens.

28 March 2013 Gazette 15

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16 Gazette 28 March 2013

dublinlife

Q&A

business

Focus on personal finances Continued from last week

Step six. Shop well No financial ill can befall anyone who shops carefully. Value for money means more than just the lowest price but can incorporate convenience, service, quality and speed of delivery. Don’t be afraid to negotiate and rejoice in the fact that the silver lining to our country’s woes is that there are some great deals to be had.

cormac o’sullivan, manager of the club

Making positive effects in health and fitness Cormac O’Sullivan is the manager of The Club, at Fitzpatrick’s Castle, Killiney. He has been working in the health and fitness industry here in Ireland for over 15 years.

With over 10 years’ experience at management level, with spells working for some of the largest operators in the sector, Cormac has seen firsthand

the effects of the recession on the sector here in Ireland.

A qualified yoga teacher, Cormac and the team at Fitzpatrick’s are championing the Exercise More – Stress Less message and insist that even small amounts of regular exercise can have dramatically positive effects on our lives.

How long have you been in business?

an impact on the health and fitness industry here in Ireland and The Club at Fitzpatrick’s has not been exempt from that. Our strategy to deal with this has centred on making sure that our memberships offer great value for money with plenty of added services included in the price.

I have been working in the health and fitness business for over 15 years.

I started out as a fitness instructor and worked my way into management within a few years. I have been managing The Club here at Fitzpatrick’s Castle for the last year and a half.

What is your ambition for the business?

Here at The Club our approach places our current members at the centre of everything we do. So rather than constantly focusing on finding new members, our number one priority is to look after the one’s we already have. This has been our key strategy for the last few years in particular and we are now enjoying the rewards.

To continue providing a service that allows members to be part of a club where they feel part of something special. These days’ people have lots of options to choose from when it comes to deciding which gym to join, but there is something special about being a part of a club where you can actually make new friends. I am delighted to confirm that this happens regularly here in our club at Fitzpatrick’s.

What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?

What is your favourite thing about doing business in your local area?

What makes your business successful?

Our club is one of the longest established health and fitness clubs in Ireland, so the atmosphere within it is totally unique. We also provide some additional services that are unique to The Club – in particular our free creche service is very popular amongst our customer base, as it frees up members so they can incorporate exercise into their daily lives.

How has the recession impacted your business?

For sure the recession has had

The people… I find that when I am out promoting The Club people are always interested in hearing what I have to say. They’ll stop and chat with me and many times I’ve ended up having the most remarkable, honest and open conversations with people about why they gave up playing sport or why they stopped exercising and how much they miss it. I love when people are open and upfront like this and I also love that our product can impact positively on people’s wellness if they give it chance.

Step seven. Cut the cost of your borrowing There is a simple but effective formula for dealing with debt. If you can, consolidate all your debt into a single, less expensive loan and then pay it off as quickly as possible. If you can’t, hustle all your lenders until you get a better rate and always pay the most expensive debt off first. The rate of interest makes a huge difference.

Step eight. Aim for high returns and minimal risk There are plenty of ways to make a high return on your investments without taking undue risk. The first secret is not to consider what the market is doing and the second is not to chop and change your mind. Over the medium to long-term the stock market has always (and I mean always) produced greater profits than anything else. Investors who split their money between shares and bonds and achieve average returns do better than almost everyone else. Check out Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) as the low cost way to invest. Don’t, by the way, waste money on unnecessary management fees.

Step nine. Get protected at the right price Review all your insurance. Have you got the cover you actually need? Could you switch providers and save?

It is possible to make huge savings by reviewing your insurance on a regular basis. Do you realise if you have quit smoking over 12 months, you could be entitled to a 50% reduction in your life cover premiums.

Step ten. Be optimistic The economy is cyclical. Everyone is talking gloom, gloom, gloom now but in due course it will become boom, boom, boom again and when it does the canny will make a fortune. If you are entrepreneurial the recession is your friend. The costs of starting and running a business are lower in real terms than they have been for over a decade. Suppliers are offering great deals. Rents are down, professional advisers are charging less and – there are plenty of skilled employees looking for work.  Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

communication: easy way to access services

A Plus Skips launches its convenient new website Dublin business A Plus Skips recently launched its new website, www.aplusskips.ie, which it says offers customers a convenient and easier way to access its services, as it prepares to expand its business further.

This is just the latest stage of A Plus Skip Hire’s continued growth and expansion since it was founded in 2004 by brothers Paul and James McCann.

Starting with just two trucks, it now operates a fleet of 17 vehicles and employs over 40 staff in Ballycoolin, Dublin 15.

According to managing director Paul McCann, the growth and expansion of the business has been overseen by John

McGrane, the financial controller.

“John joined us over four years ago. I felt with my knowledge of the waste industry and his expertise in development we would be able to take the company to the next level.”

John said it was a matter of going back to basics: “Our vision was to offer fair prices to customers, excellent customer service, and offer an environmental answer to all waste needs.

“We felt the only way to achieve this goal for our customer was to purposely design and build a new facility.”

The next phase of development for the company is to make the recycling facility larger to

John McGrane, financial controller of A Plus Skips

allow the team to install specialised equipment for even more segregation of the waste.

“It is anticipated with successful planning permission, that we shall commence the expansion of the facility in July 2013 – creating 15 shortterm construction jobs and 20 full time jobs,” said John.

A civic amenity cen-

tre is among its plans, which will allow the general public to dispose and recycle household items at designated collection points.

“I feel very proud of what we have achieved and what the future holds for A Plus Skips,” John added.

For more information, log on to www.aplusskips. or call 1890 401 020.

28 March 2013 GAZETTE 17

MUSIC P19 ASDFSDAF P27 TRAVEL P24

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

PEOPLE: HAPPY TO SING AT CHARITY GIG

Pets

Cabinteely girl set to support The Saturdays

 BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN

A CABINTEELY singer has won a competition to support popular girl band The Saturdays at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre this month.

On the Friday before St Patrick’s Day, Sophie Hannah Byrne got the news that she had won the chance to sing at a special charity concert featuring The Saturdays in aid of St Vincent De Paul.

The nationwide competition was set up by Bord Gais Energy and was open to all entertainment acts aged 16 and over for the chance to support the chart-topping girl band at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre on Thursday, March 28.

Sophie told The Gazette about how she got involved in the competition.

“It was great to hear I won; it was a great start to St Patrick’s weekend.

I first found out about the competition from Bord Gais Energy Theatre’s Facebook page, and thought I’d give it a go as I already had a few videos of myself singing on YouTube.

“So I entered, as I thought it would be a good platform for me.

“I’ve been singing since I was three years old, and really want to get my name out there so I sent my version of Rihanna’s We Found Love in, and then forgot all about it.

CAN YOU GIVE BUDDY-CASPER A NEW HOME?

“I was truly amazed, therefore, when I was shortlisted and then won the competition. My mother, Bernie, and my friends have been great, sharing my videos on Facebook since then.”

As far as performing with The Saturdays goes, Sophie is very excited, though also a little apprehensive about performing in front of such a big crowd in the theatre.

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

‘I would love a recording contract and to maybe write my own songs some day, though I don’t play an instrument’

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

“Well, I’m always nervous before any performance, but once I’m onstage, everything is fine and I feel like I was born to do it.”

Sophie intends to create as many opportunities for herself through this performance, and is excited at the possibility that she might sing with The Saturdays, though this has not been confirmed, as yet.

“I’ll be on the look-out for their manager, and I’ll hand out business cards as you never know what might happen, and I want to really use such



GAZETTE

MOTORS P22

Sophie Hannah Byrne: excited to sing at Bord Gais Energy Theatre

a huge platform because these opportunities don’t come along every day.

“I would love a recording contract and to maybe write my own songs some day, though I don’t play an instrument. I’d love to get into a studio with a good producer.

“I love 1960s music, especially soul artists like Aretha Franklin, Sam Cooke and Stevie Wonder, and my voice is naturally suited to that kind of music.”

The special concert in aid of the Society of St Vincent de Paul, featuring The Saturdays and Sophie Hannah Byrne, is on at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre on Thursday, March 28. Tickets are €20 to €35 from Ticketmaster.

Sophie hopes the gig will be useful for her

THE Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is Buddy-Casper, a very handsome two-year-old male Staffie cross who celebrated his second birthday a little while ago!

This gorgeous guy was spoilt rotten with kongs and a canine cake to mark this special day, he was a true king and loved every minute of it! He absolutely adores his walkies and little treats.

He is a good humoured fella but can find being alone quite worrying, so he would love a home where he has constant company.

He would also be happy to share his new forever home with another canine fourlegged friend and big kids 13+. He would love to find dedicated owners who have a real interest in his basic training and socialisation skills, someone who really gets him for the special man that he is.

If you think you could give Buddy-Casper or any of the other wonderful dogs at the centre the loving forever home they deserve, please contact Dogs Trust on 01-8791000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50.

18 GAZETTE 28 March 2013

GAZETTE

BEAUTY OUT&ABOUT BEAUTY news The sport of keeping your skin in top shape

Shocking colour with Avon’s eye-catching gel eyeliner

AVON’S SuperShock Gel Eyeliner Pencil gets a 2013 make over with new limited edition shades this spring/summer season.

The SuperShock Gel was launched in 2010 and has made a name for itself in the beauty world.

This year, Avon has launched four new eye-catching shades to help create dramatic eyes with colour and glam up our make-up look.

It’s supersoft formula lets the SuperShock Gel Eyeliner glide on easily and evenly, leaving an intense colour finish for long lasting, extreme eye-drama.

Liz Pugh, part of Avon’s professional make-up artist team says, “Statement-making eyes are all over the runways this season and metallics are a big trend. Now you can get the catwalk look with Avon’s new SuperShock Gel.” The available shades are Aqua Pop, Steel, Khaki Shimmer and Flash and costs €8.

Collector’s edition of Touche Eclat gets the golden touch IT can be found in many make-up bags and is well known for its highlighting abilities, so to honour the Touche Eclat highlight pen, Yves Saint Laurent is launching a collector’s edition this year.

In 2013, the famous make-up pen has been dressed in shimmering gold.

Every season since 2010, Touche Eclat dons a new golden packaging in tribute to the Saint Laurent house’s most beautiful creations.

The 2013 edition is delicately engraved and embossed with a sparkling shower of light like an exquisitely embroidered dress and was inspired by the crystal bead-covered Haute Couture “Edition Soir” evening gown designed by Yves Saint Laurent in the 1960s.

Touche Eclat was created in 1992. It enhances facial features and contours, erasing all signs of fatigue and dark circles. A few magic strokes and the complexion is beautifully illuminated.

The Touche Eclat Collector 2013 is available from mid-April in shades N° 1 and N° 2.

 LAURA WEBB style@gazettegroup.com

SPORT fanatics listen up, while exercise is good for the mind and body, it can be tough on our skin, so for that reason Buff Day Spa have put together an exclusive package for sports people, to help achieve excellence in the skin too.

We would be doing something very wrong if we didn’t sweat just a little during our workout.

But exercise induced sweat can clog the skin with impurities, so for this the team at Buff Spa have a Spa Custom Facial which includes skin analysis, deep cleansing, steaming, exfoliation, extractions, massage and customised face masque. Ridding the skin of impurities, this deep cleanse facial can help restore skin to radiance.

Those who run or do other types of car-

dio will notice that the back is prone to excess perspira tion, which means the back can get clogged with spots. With this in mind, there is a Dermalogica Beautiful Back that is essentially a Dermalogica facial performed on the back to help keep it looking clean and clear.

This combines a deep cleansing action, deep exfoliation with a 15minute back massage to relax your muscles and re-energise your body.

Across the ocean, in Brazil, it’s usual for footballers to wax their legs in order to prevent infections while injured, and its spreading to Europe. We all know swimming and triathlon entrants will smooth their skin so they can win medals.

Cyclists also wax their arms and legs because of the frequency of accidents during training and competition. Inju-

Exercise can be tough on skin and induced sweat can clog it with impurities

ries can become infected and inflamed due to road dirt and hair.

Removal of hair from arms and legs reduces these risks. A full leg wax costs €45. An underarm wax costs €25.

The full package for a spa custom facial, a Dermalogica beautiful back, a full leg wax costs €145 (regular price is €189) The Buff Day Spa is now also offering sports

massage for only €75 for a session.

The Buff Day Spa, 52 South King Street, Dublin 2. For further information call: 01-677 4624 or see www.thebuffdayspa.com

Giorgio Armani Beauty unveils new foundation shades THERE could well be a bundle of complexions radiating this April when Giorgio Armani Beauty unveils new tones and shades in its Luminous Silk Foundation and Fluid Sheer products.

The make-up giant will launch the two products next week, which claim to match each woman’s “unique complexion shades”.

The foundation and the Fluid Sheer are teamed together to add radiance to the skin tone, as well as sculpt and blend.

Luminous Silk Foundation and Fluid Sheer can be blended or layered

B l e n d Luminous Silk and Fluid Sheer together to create your unique shade.

Layer Fluid Sh ee r ove r Luminous Silk Foundation, to direct and tailor the light, as you illuminate and accentuate the details of your face.

Linda Cantello, international make-up artist for Giorgio Armani Beauty, said flawless, professional make-up begins with “a luminous, natural

looking complexion”.

“By blending Luminous Silk and Fluid Sheer, any woman can find her perfect skin tone while adding radiance and correcting any imperfections.

“I like to start by applying Luminous Silk evenly across the face. Then, using the dedicated Blender Brush, I can use Fluid Sheer to add definition.

Layering the weightless products for a customised result,” she said.

Luminous Silk Foundation is light-perfecting and weightless. Now available in 24 shades – including seven new tones – to precisely match

every woman’s most radiant skin tone.

Fluid Sheer skin tone embellisher is the light-sculpting colour veil for your most dazzling complexion. The radiance enhancer is available in 12 versatile “colored light” shades to highlight and sculpt the face, warming-up the complexion for an instant, healthy glow.

Giorgio Armani Cosmetics are available exclusively at Brown Thomas Dublin and Cork, from April with the following recommended retail prices: Luminous Silk Foundation – €42.69 and Fluid Sheer – €42.69.

28 March 2013 GAZETTE 19

STYLE I have a tummy and need help finding what to wear to hide it?

Orlaith from Dublin 6

Tanya’s Advice: If you want to disguise or minimise your tummy, make structure your best friend. Dresses that are fitted around the waistline will create a more natural silhouette and will streamline your midriff. The black version from the naturally curvaceous Holly Willoughby range illustrates my point perfectly (Holly Willoughby Lace Insert Pencil Dress €79). The black is not only slimming but its structured centre creates a more hourglass figure than a rounded one. There is nothing wrong with having curves, it is just important to know how to embrace and complement them. Avoid fabrics that cling such as jersey and polyester, and opt for more structured fabrics such as tweed and cottons, and if you can, look for dresses that have a lining in them as they will offer more support. Another great way of distracting the eye from a problem area is again through print; all over print will bring the eye in many directions instead of allowing it to focus on one area, so don’t be afraid to give print a try. This printed version from Savoir is ideal, (Confident Curves Mid Length Dress, €40) as it not only has lots of lovely print, but it’s also cut in a wrap style so this will break up the top part of your body even further. I hope this helps and happy shopping!

 Star Question!

I fell in love with a bright yellow dress and bought it for my son’s communion in May, but am now stumped for what colour accessories, shoes etc would go best with it? Paula from Leitrim Tanya’s Advice: Yellow can often appear more intimidating than it has to, and in fact can look great with a variety of colours. For a more dramatic look, team it with black accessories and ideally a print shoe like this monochrome version from Colleen’s range, they will break up the yellow and give it more of a fashion edge (Coleen Fonda Woven Platform Shoes, €57). Complement this even further by adding a black clutch and a

statement necklace for extra drama. Alternatively if you wish to tone down the yellow, nude and gold accessories create a more subdued ladylike look. These nude and gold tipped shoes from Love Label tick all the right boxes with their extra metallic touch (Love Label Goodwin Slingback Shoes, €32); finish with a nude clutch such as this one from Dune, (Tassel Detail Clutch Bag, €59) and your look will be both elegant and fresh.

Style Q&A

Gazette Style and Littlewoods Ireland have teamed up to help readers with some style dilemmas

On the last Thursday of each month, Littlewoods Ireland Ambassador Caroline Morahan or their resident stylist Tanya Grimson (left) will answer your fashion queries through great tips and looks from their many collections. So if you are stuck in a fashion rut and need answers, then email style@gazettegroup.com with your question, name and location. The top questions will be chosen to feature on the page. The reader with the one question deemed the star question of the month will receive a €50 voucher for Littlewoods Ireland.

STAR QUESTION - I am small of stature, what kind of clothes should I wear to make me appear a little taller? Where can I get jeans with short legs as I am forever having to take up the leg length? What type of tops should I wear to flatter my figure?

Sandra from Dublin Tanya’s Advice: These days most labels will offer a petite range which really helps when it comes to getting trousers that actually fit you, but even better, is that ankle grazing jeans are very much in style at the moment. They sit on the ankle bone and, if you team them with a pair of high heels, it will create the illusion of longer legs. Another great way of attracting attention to your now longer pins is to add an injection of colour and this version from South, Petite Curvalicious Super Slimming Skinny Jeans, €37, are ideal for creating this effect. Wedges are great not only for giving some extra height, but also for their comfort factor, meaning that they can be worn every day. This pair from Kurt Geiger (KG Nickle Stud Wedge Sandal, €194) has the added benefit of being equally dressy and casual and would look great with these ankle grazers. Keep your tops to the waist, don’t go for longer tunic styles as these will shorten your silhouette, and if you want to keep the focus on your face add some print to your top or don a statement necklace.

Gazette

20 Gazette 28 March 2013

OUT&ABOUT

Theatre

THE pavilioN THEATRE 01 231 2929 Tuesdays With Morrie

THIS deeply emotional drama is the autobiographical story of Mitch Albom, an accomplished journalist and Morrie Schwartz, his former college professor.

Sixteen years after graduation, Mitch reconnects with Morrie after learning that his old professor is battling Lou Gehrig’s Disease. What starts as a simple visit turns into a weekly pilgrimage and a last class in the meaning of life.

April 3 and 4, tickets are priced at €18/€16.

Draiocht 01 885 2622 Swinging in the Sixties

Feeling Groovy? Coolmine Musical Society invites you to step inside and relive the music of the 1960s. From Swinging London to the Summer of Love, it will feature songs that capture the spirit of the golden decade.

The show will include hits from Burt Bacharach, The Beatles, The Mamas and Papas and the Kinks. April 5 and 6, tickets are priced at €16/14.

Mill THEATRE Dundrum 01 296 9340 Folk the Recession

WITH a wonderful selection of songs by composers such as Marty Robbins, Tom Paxton and Woody Guthrie etc combined with their own arrangements of tunes this is really is a feast of folk music. April 5 tickets are priced at €18/€15.

Ego monster Burt Wonderstone gets ready to embark on his latest trick

review: Good characters, great performances, so why so average?

Every little thing LIFE after Dunder Mifflin has been fairly quiet for Steve Carrell.

Since hanging up his paper-selling boots on the hit US TV version of The Office, the former Michael Scott has yet to turn in a truly brilliant comedy.

Maybe he set the bar too high early in his career with Anchorman and the 40 Year Old Virgin, but Carrell is a supremely talented comedic actor in need of a fitting vehicle.

His first attempt at crea ting a ma rquee comedy icon is The Incredible Burt Wonderstone, a farcical

comedy about magicians, their rivalries and their inspirations.

As far as setting goes, it is a novel idea, but hardly relevant.

If you’ve seen any movie from a Saturday Night Live alumnus in the last decade, you

Film of the Week: The Incredible Burt Wonderstone h h h (15) 100 mins Director: Don Scardino Starring: Steve Carrell, Steve Buscemi, Alan Arkin, Jim Carrey, Olivia Wilde, James Gandolfini

 Paul hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

know the drill; egomaniac lead character starts out horrible, has a few bad things happen to him, maybe a love interest and he reforms.

Simples.

But the strength of this genre is not its ingenuity, its storytelling or even its overall worth as film.

We watch films like this when we don’t want to tax our brain too much, to take it easy, sit one out.

These films rely on our suspension of disbelief to be at a point where anything seems remotely plausible, as long as you laugh.

OUR VERDICT:

IT is good. It is certainly not bad. But it could have been excellent had Scardino and screen writers Jonathan M Goldstein and John Francis Daley decided what the film was actually about. Three potentially excellent storylines - the relationship between Burt and Anton, the reemergence of Rance Holloway and the ascension of Jim Carrey’s delightfully bonkers Steve Gray - all go unfulfilled.

Which is handy for B u r t Wo n d e r s t o n e because, despite leaving a number of narrative threads unfulfilled, it will attract numbers through the door based on having quite a few very funny set pieces and characters that are written large enough to leave an indelible mark on viewers’ minds.

Much of the film’s charm comes from Carrell’s talented but complacent Wonderstone.

As it becomes clear that Jim Carrey’s upstart Steve Gray, all urine-holding, hot coal sleeping, is winning the

battle for ticket sales in Las Vegas, Woderstone and his assistant, Anton Marvelton (played with deadpan excellence by Steve Buscemi) must evolve or die.

As the two bicker, the film soars and one attempt by Burt to do their two -man show solo is an absolute highlight.

But the film can’t stay focused long enough to decide what it wants to be, which is highly frustrating.

John Francis Daley (Dr Sweets in T V’s Bones) and Jonathan M Goldstein wrote 2011’s

Horrible Bosses and, much like that effort, Burt Wonderstone is too scatty to really engage.

As the tone shifts, three narratives vie for screentime and none gets the time they deserve.

Alan Arkin, who has made a career out of deadpan comedy, finds himself all at sea, despite his magic legend Rance Holloway being a fantastic comic creation.

In the end, what’s left is a bit of a jumble and it is a shame.

With a bit more care in the script, Wonderstone could stand alongside Ron Burgundy and Chazz Michael Michaels.

As it is, Carrell and Carrey are on fine form, Arkin is excellent and a decent film comes very close to being a very good film.

28 March 2013 Gazette 21

Gazette

FASTtunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods

Easter gift from the Jimi Hendrix vaults Suede’s wilderness years, like those of David Bowie, appear to be behind them now after a creative and artistic explosion with Bloodsports

review: a welcome return from britpop legends suede

A fire in the blood...

AS FAR as comebacks are concerned, this has already been a great year. David Bowie’s The Next Day was a marker, a creative high watermark in his output since the 80s, and in a similar vein, last week saw the release of Bloodsports, the first album in a decade from Britpop icons Suede.

Suede were one of the acts who first lit the fuse of Britpop that blew away the grunge movement on this side of the pond over a glorious three-year period that saw them appear on innumerable magazine covers and deliver on the hype of being the best new band in Britain.

Classic singles like

 ROB heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com

The Drowners, Animal Nitrate and New Generation, and their run of first three albums cemented them as a class act, and ensured a level of fan devotion close to mania.

B r e t t A n d e r s o n ’s androgynous, agressive croon was the perfect foil for Bernard Butler’s (and later, Richard Oakes’) intricate and shining guitar parts, the combination recalling early 70s Bowie, filled with London swag-

ger and pop sensibility that ensured their longevity extended well beyond other acts from the scene who tried to plough the same furrows.

For a band who blazed so brightly at their first appearance on the scene, to have gone out with the whimper of A New Morning in 2002 was hugely disappointing.

Promising at the time of their split the year after A New Morning’s release to come back when the time was artistically right is something that Suede have delivered with Bloodsports.

The record is everything that New Morning was not — bright,

confident and full to the brim with great tunes, to the extent that there are songs here, like opener Barriers and lead track It Starts And Ends With You, that have already been added to the ultimate Suede playlists of fans worldwide.

Barriers, and the other songs that comprise the first half of the record, stake Suede’s case for a justified return to the battlefield in the same way as The Next Day does.

Everything you ever loved about Suede is here - the tubthumping drums, the shimmering production and lyrics that invoke glorious vulnerability, postcards from the underside of city life.

Snowblind is a soaring stomp, while the most glaringly Suedeesque track, Hit Me, ticks all of the boxes for classic status, a rollicking opening and chorus that scales the speakers, and one of the more gratuitous uses of “La la la, la la” in rock in recent times.

Taking the pace down for the last four tracks, Suede deliver some of their most affecting songs of their careers, Sometimes I Feel I’ll Float Away and Faultlines both recalling one of their finest moment, The Wild Ones.

Anyone thinking of making a comeback this year now has another incredibly high bar to clear.

Happy Easter! As the countdown to the chocfest continues, I know what I’m doing this weekend (think the chocoholic nun from Father Ted...)

And given that the Easter Bank Holiday weekend is upon us, it’s pretty fitting that a resurrection of sorts is happening in the rock world.

Jimi Hendrix is regarded by many as one of the greatest guitarists to ever pick up a Fender.

Despite only enjoying a few years of fame when he was alive, his legacy has stretched the length and breadth of the music world, influencing every artist from Miles Davis to Stevie Ray Vaughan.

A dozen albums have been released since his untimely death in September of 1970 at the age of 27, including this month’s release of People, Hell And Angels, an album made up of 12 previously unreleased tracks which were in the pipeline for the follow-up to Jimi’s third (and what turned out to be last) album Electric Ladyland, released in 1968.

The release of People, Hell And Love is also poignant when you consider Hendrix would have been 70 this year.

And if you’re wondering where all this material came from, Hendrix was famous for using studios as rehearsal space meaning although management were forking out heavy fees, the tapes were rolling for much of The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s jam sessions.

However, rumour has it People, Hell And Angels is likely to mark the end of four decades of posthumous album releases, though the guitarist’s engineer, Eddie Kramer, has said there is still a load of live footage in the vault, so the next Hendrix release could be in the form of a DVD. And with Hendrix’s live performances as famous as his fingers - it will be guaranteed to be as electric as ever.

Gazette

22 gazette 28 March 2013

OUT&ABOUT

GAMING

BYTES&PIECES

get lost on a year walk

Tree-mendous sense of design in a chilly game I’M a little late to mention this, as it’s been out for a wee while now, but not unlike the starting cabin deep in its forest, Year Walk isn’t going anywhere any time soon.

While there are tons of new IOS games released every day, only a few of them ever get noticed, with Simogo’s title catching plenty of attention upon its pretty recent release on the Apple store.

At its simplest, you could describe Year Walk as a kind of ... forest walk-em-up, starting off at a serenely quiet Swedish cottage as snow drifts down. From there, you flick the screens around, with trees and other objects unfolding into view, depending on where you’re wandering.

However, the paths and trails don’t quite go where you’re expecting, with a disorientating sense of space, and place, adding to the confusion, while you may meet a number of ... forest spirits on your journey, and not all of them creatures you’d wish to meet in a snowy Swedish forest as night falls ...

An interesting mix of Scandanavian design and folklore, married to quaintly charming graphics that makes good use of IOS platforms’ tactile interfaces, Year Walk is an abstract, atmospheric and elegantly presented title that’s well worth taking a stroll with. Just don’t blame me if you get lost within its deceptively simple setting ...

from free to almost free WhatsApp confirms charge coming

THIS news may not come as a very huge surprise, but the popular free messaging app WhatsApp has confirmed that it’s to start charging an annual (small) subscription cost for its IOS users from some time this year.

One of the must-have apps on many people’s smartphones, WhatsApp has been very successful. Even though it has rivals, it still maintains its very substantial user base for texting and exchanging pictures (without any pesky, annoying ads getting in the way).

While Windows Phone, Android, BlackBerry and Nokia phone users already pay a minimal annual subscription, IOS users can expect to see their free WhatsApp become, well, very almost free, later this year, with chief executive Jan Joum making the sensible decision to apply a charge ...

Previously something of a sidekick in the Gears of War universe, sarcastic, quick-witted Baird (right) steps up as lead protaganist in this exploratory prequel, set shortly after Emergence Day. Baird’s joined by some familiar, and new, faces on this latest intense romp.

gears of war: judgment still shooting for the top

The action ticks along

WITH the XBox 360 nearing the end of its life cycle, several games have been rolling out to show that there’s plenty of life in the old gal yet.

And they certainly don’t come much livelier than entries in the XBox 360-exclusive Gears of War series, that’s for sure; a series that has graced this page before.

Still, with the Gears series seemingly well and truly w rapped up at the end of the recent-ish third title, where next for the franchise?

Well, step forward Gears of War: Judgment, the

prequel!

 shane dillon sdillon@gazettegroup.com

(Oh, Epic Games, whatever next? Gears of War: The College Years?)

Okay, so prequels are generally poorly-received by most people – after all, it’s hard to build up any kind of narrative drama when you know that soand-so will be okay and go on to other adventures.

Still, kudos to GoW:J, wonky name spelling and all, for working out an interesting new angle.

This time round – or, err, before – a previously ancillary character gets top billing as lead protaganist, as sarcastic, highly intelligent Damon Baird begins the game in trouble with the higher-ups.

He’s on trial with a

Fan favourite Augustus “Cole Train” Cole steps up for duty, with his younger self proving as tough as ever

number of other COG soldiers (including perenially popular Cole Train) of being disobedient soldiers in the chaos following Emergence Day – the day when a hostile species, the Locust Horde, suddenly began pouring into the world from below.

Now, Baird, Cole and the others are forced to explain what really happened to lead them to this point (which is all set several years or so before the first Gears of War game, don’t forget). Cue the explanatory flashbacks ...

From the get-go, Gears fans will be in instantly familiar territor y, as nobody does “destroyed beauty” as well as Epic Games, with one ravaged cityscape or landscape after another to plough through, Lancer (chainsaw-gun) a revvin’.

Reavers,Wretches,Tickers, Lambent and more – all the usual Locust horde are here, and some more, and all looking to cause tears before bedtime for Baird and his buddies,

As a way to mix up the action, players can choose to “remember the truth” of what happened at certain locations, where they spot the Gears logo – thus triggering area-specific challenges to undertake

whether in the single player or in the (highly entertaining) online multiplayer modes.

Perhaps the most interesting feature is the ways gamers can undertake optional challenges throughout, all of which help to, firstly, add greater challenge (as though the game was easy to begin with), and, secondly, to flesh out Baird and co as characters.

It’s hard not to feel that GoW:J isn’t more of the same, but that’s not always

a bad thing, as the Gears universe, characters and, well, vision have always been singularly entertaining to begin with.

While the big-scale spectacle of previous titles has been stripped back a little here to focus on tighter encounters, the action certainly hasn’t been short-changed, making it quite a blast. (Sorry, Baird – pun intended.)

Gears of War: Judgment is available for 18+ gamers now from a variety of retailers.

28 March 2013 SWORDS Gazette 23

Combining classic cabriolet with the best of a hatchback

road

Gazette

review: Citroen launches a new chapter continuing the DS line

MOTORING

NOISE

n Cormac Curtis

It MAY not feel like it, but it will soon be summer, or at least we hope so.

In anticipation of some clear blue skies, Irish motorists can rest assured that Citroen is continuing the DS line story with the launch of a new chapter, the DS3 Cabrio.

Irish motorists will be able to enjoy the slightest ray of sunlight thanks to the newcomer’s intelligent architecture that makes convertible life considerably easier. The DS3 Cabrio is all about pleasure. Non-stop.

The DS3, launched just three years ago, has proved an undeniable success, totalling nearly 180,000 registrations.

Boasting enhanced personalisation possibilities with a range of roof collections, the DS3 has led the way in boosting DS line awareness and success.

The DS3 Cabrio is above all a real DS3. It features all the strong points behind the success of its sister model, namely bold styling choices, refinement down to the last detail, and instant driving thrills.

Citroen has chosen a modern technical solution for the DS3 Cabrio to underscore the DS3’s unique character and retain all of the original model’s road feel. Contributing to the personalisation effort, three softtop roofs are available: black, Infinite blue and DS Monogramme. The DS3 Cabrio is also heir to all the sophistication of the DS line, with an innovative 3D rear light signature and a highly original

Rugby legend Keith Wood, event organiser Padraic Quinn and Raymond Leddy, Skoda Ireland

Skoda Ireland steps up as Tour de Conamara sponsor

The DS3 Cabrio features bold styling choices, refinement down to the last detail, and instant driving thrills

tailgate opening motion.

The DS3 Cabrio blazes a trail in the cabriolet segment with a new wave of modernity: electrically manoeuvrable roof up to 120 km/h; the only real 5-seater in the category; the largest boot in the category; available from just 99 g/km of CO2.

The DS3 Cabrio inherits the strong personality of the hatchback. At 3.95m long, 1.71m wide and 1.46m high, it retains the original’s compact proportions, denoting agility and energy. All the customary bold styling choices are present, from the “floating” twotone roof and shark fin that reinvigorates the car’s waist line, to the side recesses that underline the LED daytime running lights and sculpt the car’s “face”.

The architecture of the DS3 Cabrio is fully in DS3 character. The canvas roof becomes a new source of personalisation with a range of original colours and designs that add to the car’s unique person-

ality. The new model also features all-new 3D LED lights at the rear and a chrome-finished handle that elegantly highlights the top of the tailgate.

While most convertibles weigh in at some 100kg more than the regular model, the DS3 Cabrio is just 25 kg heavier than the DS3 hatchback. The optimised architecture of the cabriolet model retains all of the agility and responsiveness of the original. Citroen engineers have managed to give the DS3 Cabrio the rigidity of the hatchback, notably by using the same architecture for the sides and adding structural reinforcements around the boot.

Equipped with the same technical base as the regular DS3 – ie structural components and running gear – the Cabrio keeps all of the eager handling that makes the DS3 such a treat to drive while at the same time offering topnotch control and safety.

The Irish range offers a choice of three engines

and three equipment grades, with a full range of options.

From safety to comfort to communication and entertainment, the Citroen DS3 Cabrio DSIGN has every angle covered.

High specification features include cruise control with speed limiter, 3D LED rear lights, rear parking sensors and sports suspension as standard.

The new highly-efficient petrol VTi engine is available on DSIGN level with CO2 of 112g and combined fuel economy of 4.9 l/100km.

The step up to level two DSTYLE adds interior mood lighting, signature daytime-running LEDs, air conditioning and 16” Ashers alloy wheels. At

DSTYLE level the e-HDi 90 EGS6 offers the lowest CO2 at just 99g and delivers fuel economy of 3.8l/100km.

The range topping DSPORT equipment level adds connecting box, digital air-conditioning, 17” Black Bellone alloy wheels and a double chrome exhaust pipe. With a step up of just €1,500 the DSPORT grade comes with the sporty petrol THP 155 engine with CO2 of 137g or €280 annual road tax.

The DS3 Cabrio was designed to bring occupants pleasure with no compromises. It combines the advantages of a classic cabriolet with the strong points of a hatchback.

Five-time Tour de France winner Bernard Hinault and rugby legend Keith Wood are among the international sports stars lining up for the 2013 Skoda Tour de Conamara (www.tourdeconamara. com).

The event on May 25 is part of a weekend of cycling activity that will see the Connemara area host Ireland’s first sportive team time trial in Carna.

Speaking at the launch of the event Raymond Leddy, head of marketing, Skoda Ireland said: “Skoda is delighted to become the official sponsor to the Tour de Conamara. We have a rich tradition in cycling and are the official partner of the Tour de France. To be able to get behind a local event such as this was an easy decision to make and we wish all the participants well.

“Monaghan & Sons, our local Skoda dealership in Galway, will be offering participants the option to get pre tour VIP treatment with further details to be announced closer to the event.

“The event has already attracted considerable international interest with registrations already received from cyclists in Britain, France and the USA,” according to event organiser Padraic Quinn.

He explained: “We are hoping to build on the success of last year’s cycle and have made a number of changes to provide a weekend of activity for visitors to the area. The Saturday cycle in Clifden offers 140km and 80km routes. The option to take part in the Sunday team trial event in Carna is something that is already attracting a lot of attention from cycling clubs and corporate teams.”

The weekend is rounded off with a Family Funathlon in Carna that will include cycling, walking and family entertainment. The Newstalk Team Time Trial event and Family Funathlon are fundraiser events for Cancer Care West.

Speaking about the return of Bernard Hinault to Connemara, Padraic Quinn revealed the French cycling legend expressed an immediate interest in returning in the aftermath of the 2012 event.

Quinn noted: “Bernard was very taken with the event atmosphere, scenery and the reaction of Irish cyclists to him. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Tour de France so it is a real honour to have one of the sport’s true legends join us in Connemara for the event.”

24 SWORDS GAZETTE 28 March 2013

GAZETTE

&ABOUT OUT fast TRAVEL NEWS

Set your sights on all the States has to offer

SETTING your sights on the States for that muchlonged for honeymoon offers couples a range of holidays to suit every type of romantic getaway.

With fun activities such as safari cruises, watersports and evening entertainment, as well as the much-needed sunshine and, of course, Disney World, a vacation in Clearwater Beach or St Petersburg in Florida has everything you need for a fun-filled honeymoon.

American Holidays, the Florida experts, have just released these great all-American sun packages, giving you even more reason to head to the Sunshine State this year.

Travel on June 6 and spend five nights at the three-star Rosen Inn Pointe Orlando and five nights at the three-star Sirata Beach Resort from only €639pp. Price includes return flights from Dublin, 10 nights’ accommodation as stated, taxes and charges. Plus, you can add on car hire from only €20 per day.

Spend seven nights at the three-star Barefoot Beach Resort on a self-catering basis from only €629 per person when you travel on June 5, or spend seven nights at the four-star Hilton Clearwater Beach from only €1,109 per person when traveling on May 12. Prices include return flights from Dublin, accommodation as stated, taxes and charges. For more information visit www.americanholidays.com or call 01 6733804.

ADVICE : TOPFLIGHT

Fit for a king and queen!

FOR those loved-up couples in search of something fit for a king and gueen (or a new husband and wife), one way to celebrate your marriage is with a stay at the Residence in Dubai, the luxurious beachfront villa situated within the five-star JA Palm Tree Court.

Located in its own exclusive bay, with 800m of private beach, the hotel offers newlyweds the chance to relax in the epitome of luxury.

Guests can take advantage of a pre-stay planner and start customising their stay in the run up to departure, ensuring the booking of a de-stress spa treatment or a romantic meal on the beach.

On landing, the complimentary Marhaba welcome service at the airport will ensure a relaxed VIP arrival at the resort.

Prices range from €300 a night based on two people sharing a garden view junior suite, or €723 for a bedroom suite at The Residence. For more information, visit www.jaresortshotels.com.

The Residence in Dubai

OFFERS: FINDING THE PERFECT, ROMANTIC TRIP OF A LIFETIME

Honeymoons

When it comes to planning your honeymoon, there’s the added pressure of ensuring this once-in-a-lifetime trip is just that – a romantic trip of a lifetime and one giant excuse to really spoil yourself and your new partner in life. Whether you’re planning an alternative honeymoon at home, or bending the budget to jet off into the sunset, there are plenty of options out there for newlyweds to find their post-wedded bliss in some of the world’s most far-flung retreats. And to help make those all-important plans a cinch, we’ve managed to pull some of the best choices together just for you!

Options are endless for newlywed getaways WHEN it comes to choosing a honeymoon, the options are endless.

So, whether you’re a sand-dweller or a home bird, travel expert Hotels. com has compiled a list of popular honeymoon destinations to inspire everyone’s preferences.

Mexico

In Costa Careyes, Mexico, prices start from just €174 per room per night on Hotels.com.

Stay at the El Careyes Beach Resort in Jalisco, Mexico, a firm favourite with celebrity honeymooners and a perfect choice for couples looking to escape after their big day.

Surrounded by subtropical rainforest and nestled in a secluded cove on the Pacific Ocean, this resort exudes elegance and tranquility.

Bora Bora

Stay at the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa in Bora Bora, French Polynesia, with prices starting from €503 per room per night on Hotels. com.

With celebrity fans including Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, newlyweds can enjoy the island paradise with spectacular views of the Otemanu Volcano from the sea shore.

Get tropical in Bora Bora,

Arizona

French Polynesia or stay close

If you’re not looking to follow the classic honeymoon recipe that requires an exotic beach, you can enjoy the exclusive service of the Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa in Arizona, USA. A boutique hotel located on Camelback Mountain with a splendid view of Paradise

to home and enjoy Donegal

Valley, even celebrity couple Beyonce and Jay Z are rumoured to have honeymooned here.

Prices start from €357 per room per night.

Donegal

Or to stay a little closer to home, why not enjoy

your post-wedding moon at Lough Eske Castle in Co Donegal? Sex and the City star Sarah Jessica Parker chose Donegal for her honeymoon and with prices starting from €166 per night, you too could enjoy a very fashionable holiday in the weeks after

your big day.

A stunning five-star, Lough Eske is set within 43 acres of forest woodland the perfect location for that honeymoon closer to home.  For further information

visit www.Hotels.com.

28 March 2013 SWORDS gazette 25

Gazette

TRAVEL fast

TRAVEL NEWS

Get romantic and see the sights of Rome and Sicily

The white sand beaches and turquoise waters of Thailand make for an ideal romantic getaway

In the mood for travel Whether you are looking to explore the wonders of the United Arab Emirates or the beauty of Thailand, Travelmood have something to suit all needs and tastes to make that special occasion one to remember.

Maldives

Travel to the Maldives on May 12, 2013, and spend nine nights in the four-star Bandos Island on a B&B basis from only €1,299 per person. The price includes return flights from Dublin, accommodation

as stated, speedboat transfers and all taxes and charges.

modation, internal flights and all taxes and charges.

Thailand

Mexico

Travel to Thailand on May 22, 2013, and spend three nights at the four-star Rembrandt Hotel in Bangkok on a room-only basis, before enjoying seven nights at the five-star Indigo Pearl Hotel in the Premium Pearl Bed Suite in Phuket, on a B&B basis from just €1,429 per person.

Price includes return flights from Dublin, 10 nights’ accom-

Spend three nights in the five-star Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa in a Premium Deluxe Tropical & Garden View room in Mexico, on an all-inclusive basis from only €1,398 per person for couples travelling on June 10, 2013. Price also includes return flights from Dublin, accommodation as stated, internal flights and all taxes and charges.

Honeymoon Lowdown!

Over 100 engaged or recently married respondents completed the survey which was conducted by Hotels.com through Confetti.ie, the online home of Irish bridal title, Confetti Magazine. While results showed that one-in-four Irish couples spend on average between €5,000 and €10,000 on their dream holiday, it seems that is not all!  Despite the recession, 99% of newly-

weds plan to take a honeymoon  While traditionally it was the groom’s

job to book the honeymoon, it seems the modern bride is leaving nothing to chance with 69% of people polled saying that researching and booking the honeymoon is a joint decision.  Thailand is the most popular honey-

moon spot (19%) followed by Italy (11%) and Australia (9%)  7% of couple say they plan to honey-

moon at home

Dubai

Or finally, spend five nights at the five-star Hotel Ibn Battuta Gate in Dubai on a B&B basis, before spending seven nights at the four-star Avani Kalutara Resort in Sri Lanka, in a superior lagoon view room from just €1,564 per person.

Prices include return flights, 12 nights’ accommodation, internal flights, taxes and charges when travelling on May 11.

For further details or further dates available, visit www.trav elmood.ie or call 01 4331063.

Essential tips for the ultimate stress-free post-nuptial holiday Whether you are planning a romantic beach holiday or a whirlwind city break, your first trip as a married couple should be full of excitement and romance and an excuse to wine and dine. But being swept away in the run up to the much-anticipated nuptials can sometimes mean overlooking some of the vital details.

Dr Graham Fry, director of the Tropical Medical Bureau, knows all about the problems faced by newlyweds and says that a small forgotten detail when planning your all-important honeymoon can shatter your dream holiday.

To help your honeymoon run as smoothly as possible, Dr Fry offers a number of essential tips.

1. Ask someone responsible to send your marriage registration form to the general

There is so much to see in Italy, from the captivating city of Rome, to the sandy beaches in Sicily.

If Italy is your dream honeymoon destination, you are in luck – Citalia can send you there for incredibly low rates.

Travel to Bologna for four nights at the Metropolitan hotel, on a B&B basis, for just €459 when you travel on April 23.

Or spend a holiday in Verona for two nights at the Mastino Hotel, and Lake Garda for five nights at the Parcha Del Garda Hotel, also on a B&B basis from only €649, travelling on May 9.

Or perhaps you will be tempted to relax by the turquoise waters of Capri for seven nights in the Syrene Hotel, also on a B&B basis from €969, travelling on May 17, 2013.

All prices are based on two people sharing and include return flights, taxes and charges. For more information, visit www.travelmood.ie

registration office when you’re away – the form must go in within one month of the ceremony.

2. A meal at a top restaurant might be romantic, but steer clear of the shellfish when abroad to avoid honeymooners’ most common malady.

3. Don’t forget the suncream! Looking like a lobster won’t turn anybody on, even if they have sworn in sickness and in health.

4. If possible, have a day at home after the wedding before the honeymoon. This will hopefully prevent the “I forgot the tickets” scenario.

5. Don’t use your married name on the tickets unless your passport reflects the change – you might not be allowed on the plane.

For more tips, visit www.tmb.ie .

Go the extra mile to Cancun or Dominican Republic Long-haul destinations combine brand new experiences with relaxed, home-from-home accommodation, so going the extra mile could make the world of difference to your holiday retreat and Thomas Cook are offering a range of idyllic destinations this honeymoon season.

Spend 14 nights at the luxurious five-star Moon Palace Golf and Spa Resort in Cancun, Mexico, offering honeymooners a secluded white-sanded beach setting. A 14-night package on an allinclusive basis is available from €2,178 pps on September 22, 2013.

Or stay 14 nights at the romantic four-star Sirenis Suites in Punta Canta, Dominican Republic, on an all-inclusive basis from €1,210 pps. The hotel is set in a tropical haven, nestled between a coconut grove and a spectacular beachfront.

Price is based on a departure date of October 1, 2013.

Both prices include direct flights from Gatwick, however flights can be arranged from Dublin to Gatwick at an additional cost.

To book call Thomas Cook Ireland in Dublin on 01 514 0316.

advice : topflight

Sirenis Suites in Punta Canta

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 28 March 2013

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SEE PAGE 15

JULY 26, 2012

Find us on

Month XX, 2012 SWORDS • BALBRIGGAN • APPLEWOOD • BOROIMHE • AIRSIDE • RIVERVALLEY

INSIDE: Novelist has last word on The Other Woman P8-9

FRIDAY’S GOT TALENT: Lucky

contestants set to do battle See Page 7

Wright place, right time: Beauty chases World crown Fingal 10k:

O’Doherty wins as thousands run Swords race Page 30

THE WRIGHT Venue was the perfect place for friends and family of Miss Wright Venue, Rebecca Maguire, to give her a big send-off as she got ready to take on the world and hopefully bring home the Miss World crown. Rebecca arrived in China on July 18 for a month of filming, training and rehearsals, with the final taking place on August 18.

Picture: Una Williams

Full Gallery on Page 2

Swimming:

Murphy ready for London Olympic Games Page 32

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 BUSINESS .....................18 MOTORS ....................... 20 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ......... 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

â‚Ź2.5m investment for social housing Funds to benefit elderly, homeless and disabled

ďż˝ NATALIE BURKE

THERE was good news for Fingal this week with the announcement that over ₏2.5m will be invested in Fingal’s social housing scheme over the next two-and-a-half years.

The news was confirmed

earlier this week by the Minister for Housing and Planning, Jan O’Sullivan, who said the funding of ₏2,534,302 will provide new social housing units, as well as providing homes for people with special housing needs, such as the elderly, the homeless and the disabled.

The funding was welcomed

by Deputy Brendan Ryan (Lab), who said the provision of units for people with special housing requirements has been an important issue over recent months. “This funding announcement will provide local families and individuals with certainty.�

Full Story on Page 5

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28 March 2013 SWORDS Gazette 27

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sport awards P29

FastSport O’COnnor opens edmonstown:

The Ireland team brought home an impressive 16 medals from the 2012 Paralympic Games in London

paralympics: investment for the future will assist host of local stars

Funding boost for inspiring athletes on the road to Rio Following the success of Team Ireland at last year’s London Paralympic Games, where the country’s competitors secured 16 medals, the Minister for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring, has announced an investment of €910,000 to Paralympics Ireland for 2013, marking a significant stepping stone for the Paralympic movement in Ireland on their road to Rio in 2016.

The announcement was part of a package of support to Irish high-performance sport of €8.6 million, which also included direct financial support

to 25 Paralympic athletes totalling €604,000 under the Irish Sports Council’s international carding scheme.

The funding represents the first time that Paralympics Ireland has not seen a cut in their funding in the first year of the four year Olympic cycle after previous Games.

Liam Harbison, chief executive of Paralympics Ireland, said: “This investment package is very significant for Paralympics Ireland and sets us on a sound path to further sustained progress on the road to Rio 2016.

“The improved resource allows us to sustain the huge progress made in securing 16 medals in London and ensuring we deliver top class services to Paralympic athletes,” said Harbison.

Commenting on the investment in the performance programme, Nancy Chillingworth, Paralympic performance director said: “The four year performance plan for Rio can now be implemented in full with increased support to sports, sports science and medical provision and improved levels

of professional technical expertise to assist athletes. The plan sets us on a path to sustained success commencing with major Championships in each sport over the coming six months with athletes already targeting qualification slots for the Games.

“Continued investment throughout the next four years is essential for Paralympic sport to continue the huge strides made in London.”

Preparations for Rio 2016 have begun in earnest with the first inspection visit completed this month.

Irish golfing legend Christy O’Connor Junior was on hand last weekend to officially open the new professional facilities at Edmondstown Golf Club in Dundrum.

The club has invested over €400,000 in its new pro facilities, which includes a 2,000 square feet pro shop and a state-of-the-art swing room.

The opening included a tournament sponsored by Bill Sheehan and Sons and Mitsubishi Motors.

O’Connor was generous with his time and coached several of the student members of the Edmonstown club on their technique.

c o n ta c t s Sports Editor: Rob Heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6205

Gazette

28 SWORDS Gazette 28 March 2013

SPORT

DublinGazetteNewspapers 2013 dublin sports awards march nominees

WILL it ever end? Not the terrible weather, but the amazing achievements of Dublin’s sporting men, women and children which is making our job in choosing the nominees for the Dublin Sport Awards such a difficult job. This month is no different, but there were some stand-out performances that deserved extra attention. Siofra Clerigh-Buttner has been making waves in athletics for years and continues to hit the heights nationally, while Barry Cahill called time on an inspiring inter-county career. Fiona Coghlan and the Irish women’s rugby team impressed on every level, making history on the way to the 6 Nations Grand Slam. Monkstown managed to claim the Irish Senior Cup title this year before a centenary of missing out on the title came to pass, and Clondalkin RFC achieved their third promotion in five years to reach the Leinster League Division 1A.

H STARof the MONTH

siofra clerigh-buttner

barry cahill

fiona coghlan

Colaiste Iosagain’s Siofra Cleirigh Buttner continued her incredible schools record with an emphatic victory in the senior girls 2,500m race at the Irish Schools’ Cross Country Championships in the University of Ulster, Jordanstown this month.

THE St Brigid’s star and former Dublin captain called time on his inter-county career, having won eight Leinster titles, an All-Ireland and an All Star during his 11 years representing Dublin, avowing his belief in the next generation of players.

LUCAN teacher Coghlan has been the leader of the pack with Ireland’s women’s rugby team, captaining the national team to their historic set of achievements in the 2013 6 Nations championship run, only the third captain ever to claim the Grand Slam.

ireland women’s rugby

monkstown HC

clondalkin RFC

A HISTORIC season for Ireland’s senior women’s rugby team saw an incredible 6 Nations campaign crowned with an array of firsts - the first win over England in the competition, first Triple Crown, first championship title, and the holy grail, the Grand Slam.

MONKSTOWN hockey club ended their 99-year wait for Irish Senior Cup glory, finally breaking their hoodoo in the competition in the most thrilling of finals as Andy Ewington, for the second time in a week, netted a silver goal winner.

CLONDALKIN rugby club will celebrate their 40th year in the giddy heights of Leinster League Division 1A, the highest level of competition they have ever contested, following a superb 27-6 win over Cill Dara last Saturday that saw them earn promotion.

TEAMof the MONTH H

Get set with Gazette Sport for Great Ireland Run  sport@gazettegroup.com

D u blin G a z e t t e Newspapers is delighted to announce that we have teamed up again this year with the SPAR Great Ireland Run to recognise runners in each of our papers’ local areas.

The Gazette will recognise the fastest man and woman from each paper’s circulation area with a specially designed plaque as well as prizes

of sports gear. After the run, we will also be publishing a results list of the top local male and female finishers.

The SPAR Great Ireland Run 2013 will take place in the Phoenix Park on Sunday, April 14, at 1pm.

This year’s run will more than ever be about enjoying a full family running day as a mini run for five- to eightyear-olds over a one mile lap has been added to

the programme alongside a junior run for nine- to 15-year-olds over 2.5km. The Mini Run and Junior Run will precede the main event and an adult can run or walk alongside each child in the mini-run.

Up to 12,000 entries are expected and every adult entrant will receive an exclusive technical T shirt as well as a medal and a generous goody bag after completing the run.

Participants are being encouraged to raise funds for good causes and the event’s nominated charities are the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation and SPAR’s charity par tner, the 3Ts – Turn The Tide of Suicide. The Baby Max Wings of Love Fund is the nominated charity for the junior run and mini run.

Entries can be made online at www.greatirelandrun.org.

Athletic stars Ava Hutchinson, Fionnuala Britton, Lizzie Lee and Linda Byrne with Willie O’Byrne from SPAR at the launch of this year’s Great Ireland Run

28 March 2013 SWORDS Gazette 29

Gazette

Grand Slam glory for Ireland’s captain Coghlan Fiona Coghlan led Ireland in their historic 2013 6 Nations campaign, and spoke about the journey from college fields to the top of women’s rugby BRINGING attention through success to your chosen sport is something that every competitior aspires to achieve, especially when it has existed in the shadow of a more high-profile version of the game.

So when Ireland’s women’s rugby team claimed the holy grail of the sport in the Northern Hemisphere, the 6 Nations Grand Slam, the attention of the nation turned to recognise what they had achieved.

It should be noted that achievements of this kind are few and far between – Ireland’s captain, Fiona Coghlan, became only the third player to lead Ireland to Grand Slam success after Karl Mullen and Brian O’Driscoll.

The women also recorded their first ever win over

 rob heigh sport@gazettegroup.com

England, as well as their first Triple Crown and first 6 Nations title.

Speaking to Gazette Sport last week, Coghlan admitted she hadn’t had time for the enormity of the team’s achievement to sink in.

“I don’t think it has hit me yet, it has been so manic since we got back.

I really haven’t had time to sit down and think about it. I haven’t even had the chance to watch the match back, which I would normally do in the day after or night after the game.”

Ireland’s Fiona Coghlan leads out the team

Speaking about the deciding match, in which they faced Italy in a wet and wind-blown Rome, Fiona says though it was tough, it was not the hardest match of the campaign.

“The weather conditions didn’t allow us to play the kind of rugby we like to play. In that sense it was tough, but it wasn’t the most physical game, the French game was more physical. It’s when things aren’t going your way that you have to knuckle down and try to hold the lead, which we did.”

Fiona has a long career in rugby, but it didn’t start from an early age.

“I was sport mad as a teenager and played everything, but it wasn’t until I went to college in Limerick that I got into rugby.

I signed up for everything in fresher’s week and that was the thing that grabbed my attention most. At the start I was kind of bored at training as it was so technical, but once I played my first game, I was hooked.”

At college, Fiona won intervarsity competitions and college leagues, and went on to win the AllIreland league with UL Bohs. Her first international cap came against Spain in Madrid in 2003.

“The experience was brilliant. Someone got injured and I went on as hooker. The level was a step up to what I was used to, and it was a shock to the system. So many of my teammates from the club were on the team

at the time, which made things a little easier.”

Fiona is hoping that the team’s achievements can raise the profile of women’s rugby in Ireland to a higher level, and get more people involved in the sport.

“I would hope that people continue to take women’s rugby seriously.

Before, I don’t think people even knew that there was such a thing as international women’s rugby, or the standard that we were at. Now they’ve been exposed to it, I would hope that it would encourage them to keep supporting it and get involved.

“Everything has been so positive in the last couple of weeks, we’ve never received so much exposure. Before, when we played in Twickenham in 2005 when he had to leave without seeing the men’s match, or when our travel plans have gone haywire, that has made the headlines. But to be getting exposure for the way we play and people looking at the game rather than everything surrounding it, is fantastic for us.

“If we can get more numbers involved, it will be more positive.”

Fiona has already seen first hand the kind of impact that international success can have on interest in a sport through her day job, teaching at Lucan Community College.

“Everyone at the school is really excited, and I brought the 6 Nations trophy to the school the other day. On Tuesday, I had a parent-teacher

meeting, and a number were really positive about getting their daughters involved in rugby, which is the first time that has ever happened.

“I hope that can

increase, and in other schools across the country, and I’m sure that the supports will continue to be put in place by the development officers and the branches locally.”

FastSport anville third in kilkenny: MOUNT Anville finished third in the Kate Russell All-Ireland schoolgirl’s hockey championship last Friday in Kilkenny in dramatic fashion as they got the better of Crescent Comprehensive.

The Leinster champions fought back with two goals in the last ten minutes to win 4-3 to beat the Limerick side, finishing third overall behind Lurgan and Kilkenny College.

Gazette

30 SWORDS gazette 28 March 2013

SPORT

FastSport

Fingal secure place in Division 1 in play-off FINGAL retained their place in the Leinster men’s Division One as they saw off a depleted Clontarf 4-1 in a promotion/relegation tussle at Grange Road, Rathfarnham last Saturday.

Fingal were the beneficiaries of their opposition being short five regulars, and had something to spare at Grange Road, with Ciaran McNamara, Andrew Poynter, John Lennon, Robert Forrest and Andrew Butler all absent from the Clontarf set up.

Fingal made their Division One quality show in an assured performance.

It took less than a minute to hit the front when Chris Neville pulled back for Paddy Gahan, pictured, to finish off.

On the quarter-hour, Eamonn Bane got on the end of a broken-down penalty corner as Fingal enjoyed plenty of possession.

But the Bulls fought back to get one on the board before half-time from a penalty corner second phase, when John Mullins netted.

Indeed, a half filled with corners ended with both sides earning four set pieces and scoring from one.

Neville made the game a little less nervy when he made it 3-1 and former Clontarf man Luke Hayden neatly deflected in a corner to close out the win in comfortable style.

For Clontarf, after demotion 12 months ago, coach Gareth Borland is hopeful the base can be set for a bigger push for promotion next term.

For David Bane’s Fingal side, it was a tough campaign as their small squad struggled with a compacted season with a series of double weekends.

On their day, though, they could compete with most sides, the highlight being their Mills Cup victory over Leinster league champions Pembroke while there was also notable last season wins over Corinthian and Glenanne to assure they avoided the bottom rung of the division and automatic demotion.

soccer: cabo crushed as Swords aim to avoid drop

Swords Celtic’s Major 1C side gave themselves a huge boost in their bid for league safety with an emphatic win over Cabinteely

Madden treble lifts Celtic lsl saturday major 1c Swords Celtic Cabinteely  sport@gazettegroup.com

5 0

SIMON Madden’s hat trick was the highlight as Swords Celtic picked off a huge win in their bid to avoid relegation from LSL Saturday Major 1C with a comprehensive win over Cabinteely.

In so doing, they got a major result over one of their key rivals in their bid to avoid the drop, rising to 18 points in the league and level with the southside outfit, with the added advantage of a vastly superior goal dif-

ference.

It was one of the rare few ties to survive the conditions, with the deluge of rain and cold weather prior to the weekend putting paid to all but four LSL ties which were played on day across the 10 Saturday divisions.

To that end, the tie was switched from Balheary to the impressive new complex in Coolock and the Astroturf pitch in the Chanel base of Parnell’s GAA. All the goals came in the second half after the first was tight and cagey.

But Swords cut loose in the second half, getting

minding our men Fingallians star backs Pieta House campaign dublin and Fingallians football star Paul Flynn was on hand last week to help Kathryn Thomas and Love/Hate actor Peter Coonan launch Mind Our Men, a new campaign from Pieta House. The aim of the campaign is to reduce the rate of male suicide in Ireland, and is a call to people to to look out for the men closest to them, to recognise the signs and symptoms of suicidal behaviour and what to do to help. See www.mindourmen.ie for more information.

on the board when Barry Caulfield scored from the penalty spot following a foul on Thomas Carthy.

It set the wheels in motion for a sterling showing as Caulfield was again involved in the second goal. His set-piece found Madden to net his first of the afternoon and he was soon celebrating another.

It came about after Eoin Cashen and Danny Brady linked up to create the chance during a rampant phase for Swords, making it 3-0.

Jack Hargan added to the scoring with a virtuoso solo effort and Mad-

den made it five, again from Caulfield’s prompting with another enticing cross knocked home.

It puts Swords’ second team up to third from bottom in the table, ahead of the Kilbogget side with four games in hand with Rathcoole Boys, Earl Celtic and potentially Drumcondra within range of being overhauled.

Their first team, meanwhile, were off last weekend due to the weather conditions, meaning that their season is likely to become ever more compact as they bid to reach the intermediate ranks in

the province.

Currently, they are four points off top of the LSL Sunday Major division but have three games in hand over Dublin University.

But, with 10 games still to be played, it will be a hectic late push when midweek football begins in a fortnight to get all the games done and dusted without suffering too much player unavailability for the critical ties.

But Larry Clare’s outfit have yet to lose in the league campaign and have seven points to spare over third placed Fairview CY.

28 March 2013 SWORDS gazette 31

Gazette

Locals feature as Fingal press for promotion  sport@gazettegroup.com

FINGALLIANS man John Matthew Sheridan hit nine points as Fingal kept their promotion hopes alive in the Allianz HL Division 3A at Croke Park on Saturday night when they defeated Fermanagh by two points in a tight encounter, 1-16 to 2-10.

Sheridan, who was one of six Fingallians players in the panel, shot 0-6 in the first half and it was a point effort from him that led to David Smyth’s seventh minute goal.

Fermanagh were creating chances, though, and Brendan McGarry, John Duffy and Sean Corrigan scores kept

them in touch, before Corrigan flicked a sideline to the net to put the Erne County 1-3 to 1-2 up on 19 minutes.

Then Sheridan caught fire and over the following 15 minutes hit five points but Fermanagh went in just three behind at the break.

Fingal looked like pulling away after the

break but Porteous bundled in a 46th-minute goal to make it 1-10 to 2-6.

The final quarter was nip and tuck as a Corrigan free levelled it on the hour but the pacy Dean Flood and Peter Daly pushed Fingal ahead late on, before Sheridan and then Smyth had the final say.

NFL: footballers bounce back from cork loss

Club Noticeboard fingallians With club fixtures on hold due to the

on April 11 and raise some money to

bad weather, only the inter-county

suport our camogie teams. We need

fixtures went ahead. Dublin foot-

30 volunteers, and full training will

ballers and hurlers both had com-

be given to all taking part. Please

fortable wins, but performance of

contact Sheena McCabe or Yvonne

the week went to the Fingal hurlers

Campbell or email camogiefingalli-

in Croke Park with a two-point win

ans@gmail.com.

over Fermanagh, with six Fingallians hurlers playing.

Details are currently being finalised for the Fingallians Strictly

On the camogie front, during

Come Dancing, and the date will

March and following on from the U-9s

be announced shortly. Currently,

blitz wins at home against Naomh

around the end of May is favoured

Mearnog and Naomh Maur on March

and almost certain. In the mean-

10, the U-10s continued the winning

time, we would still love some more

ways beating Naomh Brigid’s and

dancers, particularly of the male

Naomh Uinsionn at home. The U-8s

persuasion.

braved the cold in Portmarnock on

And you may have heard rumours

Sunday with one win, two draws and

about infighting in the men’s adults

one loss. Well done to all.

teams over who and how many

There will be no nursery this Sat-

should represent them on the night;

urday, March 30. The club shop will

they are very true, and there is

also be closed.

major competition amongst the Fin-

Congratulations to our senior players Aoife Reilly and Fiona Hud-

gallians male players for the remaining few places in the show.

son who were pivotal in Maynooth

The Mobile Blood Bank will be in

College winning the Giles Gup last

the club on Wednesday April 3 and

week.

Thursday April 4 from 5 to 8.30pm

Camogie Feile Fundraiser: We are

each evening. Let’s help ensure

looking for some brave and hardy

essential blood supplies are always

individuals to volunteer to abseil

available by giving blood and bring-

down one of the Ballymun Towers

ing a friend or neighbour.

naomh mearnog Denise Masterson from Naomh Mearnog lined out for the Dublin senior team against Tyrone. Picture: GAApics.com

Dublin ladies return to winning ways LADIES NFL Div 1 Dublin Tyrone  sport@gazettegroup.com

3-7 0-6

FINGALLIANS Sinead Finnegan produced a tireless performance to help Dublin run up a comprehensive win over Tyrone as they had 10-points to spare in the fifth round of the TESCO Home Grown national football league, getting back to winning ways after falling to Cork.

The game was played in bitterly cold and blustery conditions in Belfield but was an entertaining affair considering the setting.

Dublin who had played

against the strong breeze for the opening half of the match had led their Northern challengers at the interval by 1-3 to 0-4.

Dublin’s opening goal had come from the boot of the industrious Noelle Healy, whose speedy runs through the Tyrone defence was causing the Red Hand County some concern.

However, Dublin were dealt a hammer blow within 20 minutes when Sinead Goldrick had to be carried off the field of play with what appeared to be a hamstring injury.

She was one of two Foxrock Cabinteely play-

ers in the starting line-up with Emma McDonagh starting in the forwards but picked up a second half sin-binning.

Tyrone were enjoying decent possession during these phases but found little change from Dublin defenders Siobhan McGrath, Sinead Finnegan and Ballyboden St Enda’s Rachel Ruddy whose work rate was top notch.

Healy was unfortunate not to raise a green flag for the second time when her rasping shot bounced back off the post but Dublin’s persistence did eventually pay off when Siob-

han Woods, popped over three unanswered points to push her side further ahead.

And the tie was effectively ended when Dublin substitute Hannah Tyrell, out jumped the full back Laura McGillion to knock the ball past the onrushing Shannon Lynch.

Boden’s Hyland added to the rout as she had the calmness and strength to slot a low shot past Lynch while being challenged by two Tyrone defenders.

Up next for the Dubs will be the visit of high flying league leaders, Monaghan, to the Capital on Easter Sunday.

Well done to Kevin and Shane who

impr e s sive di spl a y a g a in s t S t

both performed well for the Dubs in

Jude’s, winning in the end by five

their victory over Down.

points. This team is managed by

Congratulations also to Denise

Brenda Bradley and Colm Delaney

and Cliodhna who were in flying form

and they will contest the Feile Div 1

for the Jackie’s in their victory over

competition later in the year.

Tyrone.

Our hardy Under-8 girls braved

The weather disrupted most

the elements and won all three

of the club activity again but two

matches in their Blitz. The team

camogie games did survive on our

mentor here is the dedicated Siob-

all-weather pitch.

han Crean Lynch.

The Under-14 team put on an

Happy Easter to all.

fingal ravens Our Easter camp is on next Tues-

membership forms are available

day, April 2 and Wednesday, April 3

on our website, www.fingalravens.

at the pitch, from 10am to 1pm.

com, or at the clubhouse.

The cost of attendance is only €15

As agreed at the AGM all mem-

per child, and all children from four-

bers must have their membership

to 12-year-olds are welcome.

paid in full by March 31.

We are holding a pub quiz on Fri-

Any mentors that require train-

day, April 12 in the lounge of Kettle’s

ing or re-training on the defibrilla-

Hotel at 9pm sharp. Table of four

tor, please let Elaine Casey know on

only €30. We urge all our members

087 961 2660.

to please come along and support this fundraiser.

Well done to Darren Daly and the Dublin senior football team on a good win against Derry in the league last Saturday.

2013 membership is now due;

Lotto numbers were 16, 21, 26 and 29.

There was no jackpot winner. €20 to Joey Morris, Luke and Ruth, and Ann Kinsella (Lispopple).

Please support your club lotto each week.

GazetteSPORT all of your swords sports coverage from page 27-31

major achievement: Swords Celtic move closer to safety in LSL Saturday 1C with emphatic win P30

march 28, 2013

captain fantastic: Fiona Coghlan on Ireland’s glorious Grand Slam P29

Heartbreak for Donabate clubs PORTRANE hockey club’s Adrian Henchey says the decision to keep the €1.6m pitch in Donabate unavailable to local clubs as “heartbreaking”, causing potentially terminal issues for one of the country’s oldest clubs.

They were initially handed the keys to the venue in October 2011 but just a few days later, the pitch was damaged by flooding. Since then, a dispute has been ongoing between the insurance company, the builders and the local authority, as well as the school on whose grounds the pitch was built.

Without a resolution and a potential court case to decide who is liable, the pitch remains closed for Portrane as well as local soccer clubs intending to rent the pitch for training sessions.

For the hockey club, it has now become critical that the pitch is open to the community or see a huge dropoff in sport in the area as he explained to GazetteSport.

The club has been renting alternative venues since 1991 when hockey moved from grass and shale pitches to Astroturf and has been campaigning for new facilities

ever since with Henchey’s father Percy, along with Alan and Peter Byrne working with St Ita’s AFC, to get something put in place.

In 2007, the green light came through and Adrian Henchey said it had the potential to galvanise hockey and other sports in the community on the peninsula.

“Once we got word of the green light, we went on a massive fundraising initiative and began to reintroduce hockey into the community.

We got coaching into the local schools and our underage section rapidly began to

grow.

“Since the pitch flooded in 2011 and there was no movement to open it up, our membership has fallen off a cliff. There’s generally a feeling that the pitch is not going to be delivered and will be redeveloped. There’s a huge apathy there.”

He adds that it has become a costly and time-consuming business for parents to keep their children involved “We can only keep going with the kids who are in a position to travel to ALSAA. We fully respect that it is asking too much of parents

to come home each evening and then drive the children out there.

“It is heart-breaking, no doubt about it and has a negative impact for hockey.

If we have to wait another four years [for the dispute to go to court], it would destroy us.

“Even four more months could destroy us, but four more years... it’s an absolute disgrace in the current climate. For a local authority to spend close to €1.6m on a pitch, it’s heart-breaking for local clubs that we cannot Adrian Henchey at the pitch at Donabate before its opening use it.”