Swords

Swords Gazet te FREE

Little Green Cars are in the fast lane to success in 2013 see page 22 February 14, 2013 Find us on

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

INSIDE: Feeling the love at a very special Valentine’s Day in Tayto Park P8

Driven to marriage: Local couple get together thanks to Swords Express Page 5

The last post: Forces’ farewell to Sluagh Hall Football:

Fingallians trio to the fore for Dublin ladies Page 31

Company Sergeant Harris and Lieutenant Stringer take the tricolour down from the roof of Sluagh Hall in Swords for the last time as the army barracks beside Fingallians GAA club, home for over 70 years to A Company 65 Battalion (RDF 2005 - 2013) and before that B Company 7 Battalion (FCA and LDF since the 1940s) closed its gates for the last time at the weekend.

See Gallery on Pages 6-7

Rugby:

Swords win the Jenkinson Cup for third year Page 30

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES................... 6-7 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................27

Anti-austerity demo halts council meeting Councillor slams “aggressive” protest with “grand plan to rush chamber”

 natalie burke

OVER 25 campaigners staged a protest at the Fingal County Council building this week, as members of the Campaign Against the Household and Water

Taxes (CAHWT) brought Monday’s council meeting to a standstill.

The CAHWT members were campaigning against the proper ty tax and, according to one protester, the group were left with no

option but to stage what they called a peaceful protest.

However, Cllr Eoghan O’Brien (FF) said there was “nothing peaceful about it”.

“It was actually quite

aggressive.

“I have no problem with protesters or peaceful protests but the grand plan yesterday was... to rush the chamber.”

Full Story on Page 2

2 swords gazette 14 February 2013

dublin GAZETTe newspapers i n f o r m at i o n

austerity Councillors decry ‘aggression’

Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 - 6010240 Dublin Gazette Newspapers publish eight weekly quality free titles, covering the greater Dublin area from Swords to Dun Laoghaire

c o n ta c t s Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Acting News Editor: Rob Heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile jmaile@gazettegroup.com Picture Editor: Paul Hosford picturedesk@gazettegroup.com Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Suzanne Sheehy ssheehy@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 - 6010240 sales@gazettegroup.com

Find us on

www.gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Members of the Campaign Against Property Tax and Austerity occupy council buildings in Swords earlier this week

CAHWT protest disrupts Fingal council meeting

Over 25 campaigners staged a protest in the foyer of the Fingal County Council building this week, when members of the Campaign Against the Household and Water Taxes (CAHWT) disrupted Monday’s council meetings in Swords.

T he protest saw approximately 25 to 30 protesters bring the council meeting to a standstill on Monday evening, before they occupied the council lobby for over three hours and saw members of An Garda Siochana called to the building.

The CAHWT members were campaigning against the property tax

 natalie burke nburke@gazettegroup.com

and, according to one protester, the group were left “with no option” but to stage the protest.

“We have to bring these austerity taxes to the attention of the politicians. They won’t come and listen to us, so we must come to them. It’s a sad day that we have to occupy public buildings to be heard,” they said.

The campaigners are believed to have arrived

at approximately 4.30pm and their presence caused the meeting to be suspended. Although the meeting resumed soon afterwards, the campaigners remained in what they described as a “peaceful protest” until 8pm.

Local councillor Eoghan O’Brien (FF), however, said there was “nothing peaceful about it”.

“It was actually quite aggressive. The protesters were trying to rush the chamber. I have no problem with protesters or peaceful protests, but the grand plan yesterday was to move it indoors.

“Myself and other

councillors had to leave the building at the end of the meeting through the emergency exit as a result of the intimidating atmosphere,” Cllr O’Brien added.

Gardai were called to the scene as a safety precaution, but no arrests were made.

Campaigner James Faulkner from Balbriggan said that people needed to vent their anger somewhere.

“We’re trying to bring a message back to the politicians that these [councillors] represent us and we don’t want this tax, it’s an unjust and unfair tax. The fact is we’ve invited all the

TDs to our meetings and none of them have shown up – not one,” he told the Gazette.

“If the politicians aren’t going to come to our campaign, we’re going to go to theirs. We, the anti-austerity movement, will now be standing candidates - anti-austerity candidates under the Campaign Against Property Tax and Austerity heading, in both the forthcoming council elections and the general elections. If they’re not prepared to hear what we have to say as a group of people, we’re going to take the seats from them, and we’ll remove them from power.”

Get your heart pumping for Aware event Tesco in Rush are inviting the local community to get their hearts pumping this Valentine’s Day in an effort to raise muchneeded funds for Irish charity, Aware.

This weekend, a team of staff from Tesco in Rush will take up

the challenge of completing the equivalent of three marathons in three days to raise funds for Aware, Tesco’s Charity of the Year.

The challenge will take place over the Valentine’s Day weekend beginning on Thursday, February

14 and continuing until Saturday, February 16.

Team members at Tesco, Rush, will take turns running and walking on a treadmill which will have been set up in-store for the three fundraising days. The team members will begin the challenge each

morning at 10am and continue each day until 7pm.

Customers and members of the local community are also invited to join in and take a turn on the treadmill.

For more information, log onto www.aware.ie or www.tesco.ie.

14 February 2013 swords gazette 3

report: accommodating extra councillors an expensive job

road safety

Council thanks workers

Cost of council seats refit put at €20k each It will cost an estimated €15,000 to €20,000 for each additional seat in the Council Chamber in Swords, Fingal County Council announced this week.

To cope with the expected increase in the number of local councillors from 24 to 40 under the Putting People First local government reform document, the council confirmed that the estimated cost of refitting the Council Chamber in Swords could be between €15,000 and €20,000 per seat.

According to a report issued to local representatives at a council meeting held earlier this week, the architects department of the council has convened a project team in order

to examine the issue of accommodating additional councillors within existing facilities.

The report confirmed that the design work was at an early stage and work is currently being carried out on the project brief.

Consultations are also ongoing with the IT and corporate services departments.

“At this stage no firm costings have been calculated but it would not be unreasonable to put a projected cost of €15,000 to €20,000 per additional seat for the County Hall Chamber,” the report stated.

Given the capacity of the Baldoyle chamber, the council stated that it would be likely that a change of venue for meet-

ings may be considered, perhaps to Malahide library.

With extra costs expected to be incurred, Cllr Darragh Butler (FF) says there is no need for Fingal County Council to increase to 40 councillors.

“We cope very well at present with 24. Residents want extra services and extra resources, not extra councillors,” he said.

The council also confirmed that the proposed increase in county councillors would not result in an increase in staffing payroll costs.

“Due to the current moratorium on recruitment, no additional staff will be recruited for this purpose,” the report read.

Fingal County Council this week thanked members of the Fingal workforce who have helped ensure the safety of local roads during the cold spell in recent weeks.

Technical detail: Engineers Week promotes careers in problem solving engineers week, an annual campaign to promote engineering as

a career and the importance of the profession to Ireland, is taking place this year from February 25 to March 3r, 2013.

This year’s Engineers Week, themed Bringing Dreams to Life is organised by Engineers Ireland and focuses on showcasing to students and parents alike the limitless possibilities that a career in engineering can offer.

Engineers Ireland called on the support of the nation and asked the public to either host an event as part of the week or make sure that they take their children or students to a local Engineers Week event. Further information about Engineers Week can be found by logging onto www.engineersweek.ie.

The possible future engineers pictured are Ellie Mooney from Swords and Gavin DeRoste from Artane, both aged five.

Report In a report released at a recent council meeting, the council and its members showed their appreciation to Fingal crews who have spent time gritting the roads on all the cold nights in the past few weeks, in an effort to ensure the safety of local road users.

“The words of thanks are appreciated and will be forwarded to all the staff involved in the winter salting programme,” the council report stated.

4 swords gazette 14 February 2013

film feast Highlights to include display of latest technology and equipment

Movie makers alerted to Fingal festival deadline Following a successful year in 2012, the Fingal Film Festival has already announced its deadline for submissions for what is expected to be another premier event in 2013.

The much-anticipated festival will take place from May 8 to 10, with the deadline for

submissions being Friday, March 15.

The festival team are already viewing content for this year’s festival, which is due to take place at the Odeon Cinema and the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown.

As well as traditional events, new highlights for the festival

will include a showcase of the latest technology and equipment demonstrated by industry professionals.

A new networking event will also provide filmmakers with a chance to meet with fellow artistic and technical creatives.

Also being introduced at

the 2013 festival is the new Student Award, which is open to short films and documentaries, as well as a feedback option, where submitted films can receive comments on their project.

This year, Oscar-nominated Dublin company Brown Bag Films is supporting the festi-

val by facilitating two animation workshops designed specifically for young filmmakers with a passion for animation.

Managing director of the festival Liz Kenny says organisers will be announcing “an amazing line-up” of industry professionals who will be facilitating this year’s workshops. “We are

Award: A medal for Aimee

FastNews

Volunteer centre visit Balbriggan The Fingal Volunteer Centre will visit Balbriggan this month as part of its ongoing outreach programme.

The programme provides the local community with information and opportunities about donating their time in Fingal.

The visit will take place at Balbriggan Library on Tuesday, February 26 from 3.45 to 5pm. See www.volunteerfingal.ie.

Spring term at Water Babies Water Babies have commenced their spring term of classes in Fingal.

The baby swimming class teaches vital water confidence and safety skills from birth, while teaching parents to teach their baby how to swim.

Classes are held in Roganstown Hotel, Swords on Mondays and Saturdays.

For further details, phone 01 824 9987, or visit www.waterbabies. ie.

advising people to keep an eye on the website, as places for these workshops are limited and will fill up fast.”

All filmmakers are encouraged to submit their work as early as possible. For more information on how to submit your film, please visit www.fingalfilmfest.com.

pictured receiving the Ivan Heffernan Memorial Medal in Marine Science from NUI Galway President Dr Jim Browne is Aimee Walls from Swords. The medal is awarded annually on the results of the honours denominated BSc degree examination in marine science. It is funded jointly by the Marine Programs Section, The University of Georgia (USA) and The Martin Ryan Marine Science Institute, NUI Galway.

transport: long-awaited works should help reduce traffic in estate

€575 allocated to complete Holywell distributor road  natalie burke nburke@gazettegroup.com

Dublin North could see the long-awaited completion of the Holywell distributor road this year, with funding of €575,000 being allocated to the project as part of the Sustainable Transport Investment Programme.

The news comes with the announcement that a total of €4.1 million will be provided to Fingal in order to fund a number of projects in the area, including a feasibility study for a possible cycleway between Malahide

and Donabate train stations.

Brendan Ryan, Labour Party TD for Dublin North, has welcomed funding, saying the money will finance important projects in the area.

“The funding for the Holywell distributor link road is vitally important and long overdue,” he said.

“The €575,000 allocated will complete the missing section of distributor road and roundabout that will link up the two existing sections of the distributor road to the north of and west of Holywell housing development in Swords.”

The provision of the distributor road will complete the road network in the Holywell area, which is hoped to remove traffic from the residential core of the neighbourhood, provide more appropriate routing for bus services and enable traffic improvement measures in the vicinity of the school and local shops.

“Holywell is a lovely development with a young population and an active residents association. The development is blighted by heavy traffic from many commuters who use the estate as a rat

run to get to and from the M1. Once this distributor road is complete, it should remove the vast majority of traffic from the centre of Holywell,” Ryan continued.

Construction

The construction on the distributor road is due to start later this year, with an estimated completion date in 2014.

“The funding pot also includes money for the Swords quality bus corridor improvements, Drinan/Holywell cycle links and the construction of a traffic signalised junction

in Lusk at Station Rd/ Dublin Rd/Main St and other projects. All this investment is a boost for our county and signals the importance this Government places on continued infrastructure improvement,” he concluded.

With some of the funding due to go towards the feasibility study for the potential cycleway between Malahide and Donabate, Fingal County Council have said they have made “significant progress” on what they call the Broadmeadow Way project.

According to the coun-

cil, environmental and engineering consultants are currently compiling an Environmental Impact Statement which will be submitted to An Bord Pleanala for the project.

The update was welcomed by Cllr Eoghan O’Brien (FF) who said: “I appreciate the level of work that goes on behind the scenes. I know people locally are asking what’s happening and I try and get across the painstaking nature of getting it right. I look forward to further reports and hopefully its progress into the future.”

14 February 2013 swords gazette 5

wedding Life-changing Swords Express commute

Driving right into the path of love  natalie burke

The Swords Express has taken people many places but for one particular couple, the popular local bus route is responsible for helping them drive straight into the path of love.

The coach takes commuters from Swords to the city centre every day but, this May, will help two local Swords residents make their wedding wishes come true, having played a part in first bringing them together.

Swords resident Alan Confrey explained the couple’s connection to the commute in a letter he recently wrote to Eirebus, which operate the Swords

Express. The bus will now help make their wedding day extra special, by transporting their guests on the big day.

“I travel in and out of work daily on the Swords Express and this lonely commute was interrupted twice in December 2010, firstly by heavy snow and secondly by an unexpected event that changed the course of my life forever,” said Alan.

“The heavy snowfall meant all timetables were out the window, so when I took the coach at an earlier time than usual, I spotted a beautiful girl I went out with around 15 years before.”

“I said nothing as she passed me by, believing

she would be married by now, but as she passed me getting off the bus, she smiled and handed me her bus ticket. On it she had written her email address,” Alan wrote.

Since the chance meeting that winter day, Alan and his wife-to-be, Gwen Beveridge, say they have been inseparable and now commute on the bus every morning together.

“We still have the ticket she wrote her e-mail address on,” Alan added.

The Swords Express travels from Swords to Dublin City Centre via the port tunnel and back on a daily basis. For ticket prices, timetables and route information, visit www. swordsexpress.com.

Swords resident Alan Confrey and his wife-to-be Gwen Beveridge

restaurant

Gourmet milestone The Gourmet Food Parlour in Swords are celebrating a milestone this week, when they reach five years in business on Friday, February 15.

Since opening in 2008, the restaurant has enjoyed success during the day with their quirky artisan cafe and more recently at night with their famous tapas nights. In the last year, the restaurant underwent many upgrade renovations and doubled in size to seat 72 persons.

“Drop by and visit us on February 15 and join us for some tasty treats,” said proprietors Lorraine Byrne and Lorraine Heskin.

6 swords gazette 14 February 2013

gazetteGALLERIES

Noe Baba of Fulham FC is presented with the U16 International player of the year award by Republic of Ireland International Keith Andrews

pitch perfect: soccers best line out for three awards

T

HE Three FAI International Football Awards were recently held at the RTE Studios in Donnybrook, Dublin.

Republic of Ireland International Robbie Brady was presented with the U21 international player of the year award, while his teammate James McCarthy was presented with the young international player of the year award.

Private Brady, Private Whelan and Private Corrigan. Pictures: Una Williams

Republic of Ireland International Robbie Brady

Republic of Ireland International James McCarthy

Chief executive of Three, Robert Finnegan

Company Sergeant Harris and Lieutenant Stringer

Some of the award winners A Company 65th Battalion

Tom Connor, Michael Keogh and John Buckley

14 February 2013 swords gazette 7

Have you seen yourself in the Gazette? Buy photos online from only €6.99 at www.gazettephotos.com

John Whelan, Brian Kenny, Ronnie Connolly and Dessie O’Hara

Colette Caffrey and Margaret

Corporal Niamh Hunt, Private Niamh Coughlan

Hunt

and Corporal Gillian Dunne

Sluagh Hall: Event marks end of military ties with Swords

Barracks closes its gates for the last time I

t was a sad day recently for any Swords residents with ties to the Defence Forces, whether PDF or RDF or formerly FCA, the Sluagh Hall army barracks beside Fingalians GAA club, home for over 70 years to A Company 65 Battalion (RDF 2005 - 2013) and before that B Company 7 Battalion (FCA and LDF since 1940s) closed its gates for the last time.

Sergeant McGrath, Private Carrol and Lieutenant Dunne

This event brought to a final end, all military ties Swords has had with our armed forces over the last century - barring maybe future St Patrick’s Day parades. It was closed due to the reorganisation of the Reserve Defence Forces and its members will now be splitting up and moving to a number of different locations such as Navan, McKee and Cathal Brugha

Francis Lane, Conor Swords, Peter Rogers and Charlie Ashe

8 swords gazette 14 February 2013

fun Meet some kids and a‘one-woman’ bird

A new arrival into Tayto Park this February are these kids from the African pygmy goats

Feel the love and enjoy a day at Tayto Park  natalie burke

It seems that more than just human couples are celebrating Valentine’s Day this weekend, with news that love is certainly in the air at Tayto Park this month.

With the park offering a romantic setting for its animals this February, head-keeper Lee Donoghue has offered an insight into the breeding patterns of some of its most popular and lovedup animals.

Tayto Park plays host to a large variety of rare and endangered species and experiences its busiest month for breeding in February, according to Lee. “It is always exciting at this time of year at Tayto Park when the keepers are keeping a close eye on their charges. Sometimes we know straight away if a female is pregnant – and other times it’s a waiting game to see if our predictions will actu-

Black swans

ally happen,” he said.

One of the park’s residents, the red-crowned crane is the second rarest crane in the world and is listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.

“The male red-crowned crane is a one-woman bird and due to their monogamous nature, they are seen as Japan’s symbol of love and fidelity. During breeding season, they display a courtship dance, which involves bowing, head bobbing and leaping as

Meerkat pups

forms of communication,” said Liam.

There are a number of big cats at Tayto Park including the near extinct Amur leopards, as well as mountain lions and ocelots. In September 2012, a beautiful fishing cat female cub was born at Tayto Park much to the delight of her parents and indeed everyone at Tayto Park.

Staff at Tayto Park believe that the female Jaguarundi, which is found in Central and South America, is expecting a kitten early in the year.

Red-crowned cranes

“The family of 11 meerkats is one of the most popular animal attractions and moved to a new enclosure in January. Last year, four tiny inquisitive pups arrived in July and more pups are expected this year. Female meerkats are able to produce all year round, however, in a family pack it is only the dominant alpha male and female that breed,” he said.

Another new arrival into Tayto Park in February are kids from the African pygmy goats along with lambs, pheasants,

chicks and ducklings and the next few months at Tayto Park is expected to be full of new arrivals.

The most interesting of all animals in this month of love, however, is the Bennett Wallabies, according to Lee. Pregnancy lasts just 30 days with only ever one joey being born. It is always less than 1 gram and Lee says it is “the size of a jellybean”.

For more information on the full range of attractions at Tayto Park, see www.taytopark.ie or call 01 835 1999.

14 February 2013 swords gazette 9

charity

2013 will be fourth year for north Dublin area to host youngsters

Drive to raise funds for Chernobyl children begins  natalie burke

The North Dublin Chernobyl Children International group has officially started its fundraising drive for 2013.

The group will be hosting a group of children affected by

the Chernobyl disaster for the month of July and is currently raising money to help fund the visit.

This will be the fourth year in a row for the children to visit Dublin North and stay with volunteer host families

across the area. It is believed that a month away from their contaminated homes with fresh air, food and water will afford them two years of health on their return home.

The group recently held

a Big Spring Clean donation day in the Rolestown/ Oldtown area where people generously donated unwanted Christmas gifts, clothes and toys to the cause.

The group’s annual charity sale will take place at St

Patrick’s Parochial Hall in Donabate on Sunday, February 24 from 11am to 4 pm. Last year’s event raised nearly €3,000 in much needed funds. All funds raised will help pay transport costs for the children and for

necessities while they are in Ireland.

For more information on this event or on the north Dublin CCI, contact chairperson Trina Gilchriest on 087 996 9864 or email trinagilchriest@hotmail.com.

Council calling all lifeguards to apply for summer work Fingal County Council are calling on lifeguards to apply for work on Fingal beaches this summer.

Lifeguard cover is to be provided at a number of Fingal beaches on a weekend basis only from June 1 until September 1 this year. It is envisaged that weekday cover will commence from July 1 until September 1, depending on staffing levels and weather.

Beaches that the council intend to provide guard cover for include Balbriggan (front beach), Skerries South and Skerries North, Loughshinny, Rush

Alan Farrell TD (FG): “The money saved will be spent on public services and job creation”

ECB: pact seen as a step in the right direction

Promissory note deal wins praise  natalie burke

The promissory note deal struck by the government which was announced last week is a step in the right direction, according to a number of north Dublin representatives.

The deal was reached with the European Central Bank last week, which saw the promissory notes used to bail out the former Anglo Irish Bank replaced with a series of longterm bonds, in what is considered a positive move towards reducing the burden on the Irish

Bank Resolution Corporation (IRBC).

Speaking about the deal earlier this week, local Fine Gael TD Alan Farrell said it was an historic step on Ireland’s road to recovery.

“W hat was a high interest, shor t-term loan has been replaced by a cheap, interest only loan which can be paid back over 40 years.

“With the passing of time, inflation and the growth of our economy will diminish the impact of the repayments in comparison to our wider economy,” Farrell explained.

Deputy Farrell said the economic benefits in the long and shortterm will be significant.

Spending cuts and taxes for 2014 and 2015 will be €1 billion less than previously set out.

“The money saved will be spent on public services, job creation and the restoration of our economy.

“The first tangible evidence of this will be at the announcement of next year’s budget when there will be €1 billion less in taxes and cuts.

“The sorry saga of Anglo Irish Bank and the promissory notes

has finally been put to bed.

“T he stain on our reputation has been removed and we can now move for ward,” Farrell concluded.

Positive step Labour Party TD Brendan Ryan also welcomed the deal, saying it represented a significant and positive step forward.

“This arrangement will ensure we meet our obligations whilst greatly easing the burden on the Irish people. It is a massive step forward,” he said.

South and Rush North, The Brook and Tower Bay in Portrane, Donabate, Malahide, Portmarnock, Sutton Burrow Road and Claremont, Howth.

Applicants for the lifeguard positions must be not less than 17 years old on March 1, 2013. Application forms and further details can be obtained on the Irish Water Safety’s website at www.iws. ie.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 4.30pm on Friday, March 1. Enquiries can be made to 01 890 5891.

10 swords gazette 14 February 2013

gazetteGALLERY

Have you seen yourself in the Gazette? Buy photos online from only €6.99 at www.gazettephotos.com

Team Ireland’s Gary Burton with his parents Michael and Mary, and his brothers Darragh and Dale

Team Ireland’s Gary Burton from Sallynoggin, County Dublin

Making the moment gold at the Special Olympics T

EAM Ireland did us proud abroad as they earned themselves numerous medals competing in the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games held at Pyeongchang in South Korea.

Katherine Daly from Dalkey, County Dublin won a sil-

ver medal in the novice grade giant slalom, and Rosalind Connolly from Portadown, County Armagh won a gold medal in another final at the same division.

Gary Burton, from Sallynoggin, County Dublin competed in the intermediate giant slalom and won a gold medal.

Team Ireland’s Katherine Daly from Dalkey and

Team Ireland’s Gary Burton is congratulated by medical officer Julie Dwyer

Rosalind Connolly from Portadown, County Armagh

after competing in the intermediate giant slalom

Pat Savill from Mayfield in Cork whose son played on the floorball team

Team Ireland’s Katherine Daly, from Dalkey

14 February 2013 Gazette 11

feature P13

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 schoolsP27 P14



Gazette

diary P12

non-profit: Ulster Bank Community Impact Fund

New €75k grant now open to voluntary organisations A new €175,000 grant fund is now open for application by all voluntary and community organisations in Ireland.

The Ulster Bank Community Impact Fund was announced last week and has been developed through a partnership between Ulster Bank, The Community Foundation for Ireland and The Community Foundation for Northern Ireland.

The Ulster Bank Com-

munity Impact Fund is open to all non-profit, voluntary and community based organisations to support the development of local enterprise activity, financial education and financial inclusion initiatives.

Successful applicants will be awarded individual grants ranging between €1,000 to €40,000.

Applications to the fund will be shortlisted by The Community Foun-

dation for Ireland and assessed by the Community Impact Fund judging panel.

Speaking at the launch, David Thomas, managing director of Ulster Bank’s corporate banking division, said: “This is another step in our long-standing relationship with The Community Foundation for Ireland in our support of communities and individuals across the country.

Specifically the fund will

enable voluntary organisations enhance financial education programmes and foster enterprise in turn creating a more vibrant and progressive economy.”

The application process is open until March 8 and successful organisations will be informed in April.

For information log on to www.communityfoundation.ie/our-grants/applyfor-ulster-bank-community-impact-grants.

The €175,000 Ulster Bank Community Impact Fund has been announced by David Thomas, managing director of Ulster Bank’s Corporate Banking Division, and Jackie Harrison, fund development associate at The Community Foundation for Ireland

Gazette

12 Gazette 14 February 2013

dublinlife

diary

Bid to revolutionise student cooking Late-night kebabs and microwaveable meals are just a few of the staples which feature heavily in the average Irish student’s diet, but these culinary crimes have inspired one food company to attempt to revolutionise student cooking this spring.

Italian food brand Sacla are on the hunt for a special Dublin resident – an Italian mother – to help educate students and prepare them for life away from Piera Campanelle Ercole who founded the Italian home.

Any Italian mothers food brand Sacla She must have pasinterested in applying, sion and a flair for cooking, in order to who will receive a fee for their time, be able teach the city’s students about should send a photo, a picture of their the joys and benefit of creating deli- kitchen and the reasons they would cious dishes. like to take part, to samantha.craw-

ford@taylorherring.com.

a look at the lives of healers on Rte A faith healing documentary set to air on RTE in April is currently

looking for contributions from the people of Dublin.

In the forthcoming programme, the Maccana Teoranta production company will be exploring the many aspects to the tradition of faith healing and will look at the lives of healers, the healed, as well as exploring the understandings of what it is.

Ireland has witnessed a huge change in the traditional following of both the Catholic and Protestant faiths, but one element of spirituality and faith remains strong and that is healing.

The documentary is looking for information from people who have had an encounter with a healer, those who heal or those who have a story to share.

Contact ShaunaMacanna@ gmail.com.

jobs expo makes a return to dublin The Jobs Expo is returning to Dublin this weekend following its huge success in recent years.

This year, organisers are promising an even bigger array of jobs for future employees, as companies from Ireland and abroad compete over the weekend for the cream of Irish jobseekers.

Among the employers lined up are Sky Ireland, who are looking to fill 600 positions, the Department of Health Western Australia, which will be recruiting doctors, nurses and health professionals, and Hourglass Education Recruitment for primary and secondary school teachers.

The exhibition features Irish and international job opportunities, free career clinics and topical seminars.

It runs on February 16 and 17 from 11am until 5pm in The Hogan Suite in Croke Park.

14 February 2013 Gazette 13

FEATURE Eurovision acts are announced

DONATION: PARKING FEE FIRM BACKS CHARITY

Easytrip to raise funds for Irish Guide Dogs Easytrip has announced a charity campaign to raise muchneeded funds for the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGDB).

The electronic toll and parking payment service provider will donate €5 to IGDB for every new Easytrip account opened between now and March 31.

The campaign kicked off at the East Link and Dublin Port Tunnel toll plazas on February 4.

Motorists can pick up a leaflet when passing through these plazas and sign up at www.easytrip.

ie or lo call 1890 67 67 68 until March 31.

Speaking at the launch of the initiative, Dermot MacEvilly, chief executive officer of Easytrip Services Ireland, said: “Easytrip is committed to supporting the friends and families of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.

“These dedicated caregivers commit themselves to helping people who are blind and vision impaired, and also families of children with autism, to achieve improved mobility and independence.

“We are proud to be announcing this fund-

raising campaign and hope it can contribute to the continued success of the charity. This is only the beginning of what we hope will become a flourishing partnership with Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind into the future,” said MacEvilly.

Also commenting on the campaign, Padraig Mallon, chief executive of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, said: “We are delighted that Easytrip have chosen us for this promotion. Our staff uses the tags as they travel the country to support our clients and volunteers.

“We know how convenient and cost effective the Easytrip facility is and would recommend that all motorists who use tolled roads should open an account. When you do, you will be helping us to train and support people who are vision impaired and families of children with autism, everyone wins, now that’s a good deal,” Mallon added.

To find out more on this fundraising initiative check out www.easytrip. ie or for more details about Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind log on to www.guidedogs.ie

Jim Geraghty, Eastlink operations manager, with Dermot MacEvilly, chief executive officer, Easytrip Services Ireland, guide dog Kirby and Sinead O’Keeffe, commercial manager, Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind

RTE have confirmed the five acts bidding for a place to represent the nation in the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest.

The five Irish acts are Zoe Alexis Bohorquez, Ryan Dolan, Aimee Fitzpatrick, Inchequin and Kasey.

The public got a chance to hear each of the five songs for the first time on Mooney on RTE Radio 1 last Thursday.

Last November, RTE nominated five mentors who each worked with an act and a song which they believe could be a Eurovision winner.

The winning act will be selected on Eurosong 2013 on The Late Late Show on February 22.

Gazette

14 Gazette 14 February 2013

dublinlife

schoolLife

Get involved with our new Gazette schools pages As part of the relaunch of the Dublin Gazette Newspapers, we are reaching out to all the schools in our catchment areas to 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 are calling on 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 on 01 601 0240.

schools

st finian’s: students visit port authority offices

Getting all-access to Dublin Port  Samantha Jakstonyte, Nicole Hanratty and Jennifer Evbakhavbokun St Finian’s Community College

On February 4, 2013, the fifth year Leaving Cert Vocational Programme (LCVP) students from St Finian’s Community College went on a guided tour of Dublin Port, organised by Michael Mooney, the LCVP coordinator, organised the visit with head of human resources Pat Ward. The Port Authority were very generous with their time on the day, the students accessed all areas and were treated like VIPs. They first visited Dublin Port Authority head

office and were shown a video of the history and importance of the port in Ireland – its past, present and future.

Charlie Murphy, community liaison and media officer at Dublin Port, spoke to the students.

He has worked at the port his whole life and is passionate about the port and the local community. He has a wealth of knowledge and stayed with the students all day to answer questions.

The students were then brought to the Customs Office within the port to see how they operate. They were shown another short film about all aspects

St Finian’s fifth year students taking a tour of Dublin Port. Picture: Clara Kinsella

of customs control in Ireland – from sea, air and land. For the students, the most exciting part was seeing the portable X-ray machine which can x-ray a truck or container without opening it. The students

then met Molly the sniffer dog who demonstrated her expertise by detecting planted counterfeit money carried by an employee mingling amongst the students.

Finally, the students were driven around the

vast port before touring the Harbour Masters Control Centre. This is where all the ships are monitored and controlled in and out of the port.

The students had very positive feedback. Sami Bouakkaz commented: “Customs was fascinating, I never thought about how difficult it is to monitor illegal goods and substances coming into an island. The Customs Office do an amazing job considering the challenges they face” This was another excellent opportunity for LCVP students to see the world at work and make contacts with business.

14 February 2013 Gazette 15

FEATURE Donate unwanted goods

aontas: promoting adult learning

Festival sets out to prove you're never too old to learn  bairbre ni Bhraonain

bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com

AONTAS (National Education Through Voluntary Unification) Adult Learners Festival 2013 starts on February 25 and ends on March 2 and adult education groups throughout the country are being encouraged to get involved by setting up an event based around a theme.

During the festival, trainees from the FAS local training initiative in

culture and heritage studies at the national print museum will lead special interactive tours of the museum’s permanent print collection.

The tour will give the trainees the chance to work directly with the public for the first time and show off their new training as they become fully f ledged tour guides.

This is the seventh nationwide Adult Learners’ Festival which has become a focus over the

years for adult education in Ireland. The festival hosts events around the country offering information, lectures and workshops for those interested in pursuing an adult learning course.

Any adult learning organisation or group can take part in the festival by holding an event or getting involved in the festival in some other way.

There is a different theme for each day of the festival.

On Monday, February

The free interactive tour of the print museum has been set up as part of the learning for work theme in the festival

25, the theme is to celebrate learning, Tuesday.

February 26 will be given over to green learning, learning communities will feature on Wednesday, February 27, February 28 will be learning for work while lobby for learning day is Friday, March 1 and the festival ends with family and intergenerational learning day on March 2.

According to organisers, the week-long festival aims to promote the work of and the adult education sector and ensure that adult education is placed firmly on the political agenda by showcasing all the work done by adult learners throughout the year.

The free interactive tour of the print museum has been set up as part of the

learning for work theme in the festival and will take place on Thursday, February 28 from 11.30 am to 1pm.

If you are part of an adult education organisation and would like to involve yourself in the adult learners’ week, you can get more information by going online to www.adultlearnersfestival.com

Age Action is urging the public to undertake a spring clean this week, and donate their unwanted goods to charity.

The national charity for older people currently has three charity shops taking donations of furniture, clothes, books, shoes, bric-a-brac, rags and many other items.

“If you’d like to make a donation of stock you can either drop it off at your nearest shop, or alternatively take advantage of our collection service which operates within the M50 in Dublin,” shop manager Edwina Brady said.

To arrange a collection, contact 01 475 6989 or email info@ageaction.ie.

Gazette

16 Gazette 14 February 2013

dublinlife

business commuting

advice: LOOK AT Retirement, insurance

Stay focused on finances for life  john lowe The Money Doctor

THIS week, I conclude my examination of financial planning for each stage of your life, with retirement, and start examining insurance.

Retirement With luck and/or judgement, your debts should

all be paid. You should have a range of assets, not least your own home and a pension fund.

You should have spare cash to indulge your chosen leisure activities.

If this is the case, your priorities are likely to include any or all of the following: Creating an emergency fund; funding any benefits

lost following retirement, such as health insurance or a company car; planning for long-term care; tax planning; investing for income or finding other ways to boost income.

If you aren’t as well-off as you would like, then, naturally, your priority will be making the most of what you have available and trying to improve

Leap into a way to save on transport Car insurance is one obvious expenditure we all attend to. However, there are many other vital outlays in life that we should also plan and account for.

your situation as much as possible.

This concludes my analysis of the main life stages of financial planning. Next ...

Insurance made simple Life is a dangerous business – and so, insurance was born. Every day, all

around us, terrible things are happening.

Some of these terrible things happen to possessions (for instance, houses burn down, cars crash, roofs are blown off, holidays are cancelled because of strikes and bicycles are stolen).

Some terrible things happen to people (for

instance, people fall ill, get hurt in accidents, and die). More in the February 28 edition.  Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@ moneydoctor.ie or visit www. moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

WE ARE all looking for ways to save a few euro these days, and especially when it comes to travel.

To this end, the Leap card has been introduced – a reusable plastic smart card that can be used instead of paper tickets to pay-as-you-go on public transport in Dublin.

A spokesperson for Leap said: “Using the Leap card can save you money. It is up to 15% cheaper than Dublin Bus single tickets paid with cash; up to 17% cheaper than Luas singles, and up to 18% cheaper than DART and commuter rail singles.

“It also works out cheaper than return tickets on Luas, DART and commuter rail services.”

Cost-capping A recent innovation for travellers in suburban Dublin is the costcapping option for Luas users. If you make lots of Luas trips with your Leap Card in one day or during a week, the Leap system will automatically cap the price so you don’t spend any more than you need to.

Similar functionality is being developed for Dublin Bus, DART and Commuter Rail services and will be enabled shortly.

Other operators, such as Bus Eireann, and private bus services are being approached to join the scheme.

A wide range of ticket options, such as annual and monthly tickets, will also be made available on Leap cards later this year.

The Leap card is available at more than 400 shops in Dublin, or online at www.leapcard.ie.

14 February 2013 GAZETTE 17

ASDFSDAF P27 TRAVEL P24

MOTORS P23

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



GAZETTE

MUSIC P22

Pets

HELP BELLA FIND A LOVELY NEW HOME

In talking with The Gazette’s Laura Webb on the Lucan set of his new film, Gold, James Nesbitt praised the production’s location – if not quite the bitter weather. Then it was back to work (right) as he, and co-star, David Wilmot, prepared to splash in the freezing Liffey ...

CINEMA: THE GAZETTE TALKS WITH ACTORS JAMES NESBITT AND DAVID WILMOT

Happy to be cold for Gold  LAURA WEBB

WAKING up on a cold Tuesday morning in February to shoot a scene that sees one man get thrown into the icy waters of the River Liffey hardly sounds appealing, but it’s all in a day’s work for actors James Nesbitt and David Wilmot.

Well, kind of ... the stunt man does most of the work, but Hobbit star Nesbitt was also planning on making a splash on set by getting pushed into the chilly February waters during a scene being shot in St Catherine’s Park in Lucan last week.

Nesbitt, and Shadow Dancer actor Wilmot, lead an all-star cast for Irish feature film, Gold, which is currently in production.

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

‘It is a beautiful location here at St Catherine’s Park; I really can’t wait [for this shoot].’

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

James Nesbitt, actor

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

The comedy/drama, developed by Dublin-based production company Subotica, is about the life of wandering loner Ray, played by Wilmot, who desperately tries to track down his estranged ex-wife so his dying father can see his teenage granddaughter one last time.

However, Ray soon discovers his ex has built a new life with his former PE

teacher, played by Nesbitt.

Last week, The Gazette went down to the popular Dublin West Park to get a glimpse behind the scenes and have a chat with some of the cast members.

The scene being filmed at the park involved a stunt man falling into the river and being washed down through the rapids.

Setting the scene, one of the onset production team members, Anne, explained what was about to happen.

“The two leading actors, Frank (Nesbitt) and Ray (Wilmot) go for a walk down the river, a little argument happens and one of them falls into the river.

“We have our stunt team ready, water safety [crew] and the ambulance [crew] ready for the scene. Donal, our stunt-

man, is doubling [as] James Nesbitt. He is going in the water, and he will shoot all the way across the river.”

During their rehearsal time, Nesbitt and Wilmot took a moment out to talk to The Gazette about their latest film project.

Nesbitt said he was loving filming the movie, and was geared up and ready for his day ahead.

“It is a beautiful location here [at St Catherine’s Park]; I really can’t wait [for this shoot]. We have been filming for about a week now, and I think it is going to take about five weeks to complete.”

Nesbitt was enthusiastic about the project, saying that the script is “fabulous”, and praised his fellow actors and crew.

Continued Overleaf

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

Love is in the air, and our Dog of the Week, Bella, is a two-year-old pointer crossbreed. A real beauty – both inside and out – this lady is a clever girl who even knows how to open gates!

Bella’s ideal match would live in an active home with plenty of space for her to be able to run off-lead and stretch her paws. Her pawfect owner would be able to spend time helping her with her socialisation skills and basic training, as she adores learning new things.

As a playful pup, she would cherish a canine companion to keep her company and goof around with, and would be happy to share her new home with big kids, aged 10+.

Please contact Dogs Trust at 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. A map and directions can be found at www.dogstrust. ie, and you can also find them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ dogstrustireland), or on Twitter (@DogsTrust_IE).

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 14 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

Ready to make a splash with roles the way in,” he said, shuddering at the thought.

Working together for the first time, Wilmot said working alongside Nesbitt has been “great”, as has working with Condon and young Game of

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

‘Working in film, you would work longer hours. Films are like marathons, so it’s sort of an endurance test’

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

David Wilmot, actor

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

his hair to keep it from sweeping in his face.

Asked how he was, he bounced about, saying “very cold”.

For him, filming is going well. “It’s hard to tell, but people seem happy. Today is the first bit of snow we have had, and we have to climb into the river.

“I have to wade in a little, but Jimmy has to go all

Thrones actress Maisie Williams, who plays his daughter.

Their day at St Catherine’s Park was set to end at 4.30pm when daylight turned to night, which is a short day for movie makers.

“Working in film, you would work longer hours.

Films are like marathons, so it’s sort of an endur-

ance test,” said Wilmot.

It seems the test is not just for working long hours, but also enduring sub-zero temperatures.

“I was thinking about that the other day. I am kind of cold – a lot. I can’t remember the last hot day I worked in. I should sort that out,” joked Wilmot.

Other supporting actors in the production include Eileen Walsh from Pure Mule and Steven Mackintosh from Small Engine Repair. Gold was written by and is being directed

by IFTA winner Niall Heery.

Filming is ongoing in various locations around Dublin since it commenced on January 30, and principal photography is scheduled to wrap on March 5.

Gold is hoped to be completed in September, and goes on general release in 2014.

Perfectly understandably, David Wilmot was relieved that his character only had to wade into the freezing Liffey a little bit – unlike his co-star, James Nesbitt

gazette

group

.com

“I am working with some brilliant people, including David Wilmot and Kerr y Condon [actress from This Must Be The Place, the Sean Penn film that was partially filmed at the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre], so I am very thrilled to be here. It is lovely.”

Asked if he had filmed in the park before, the Ballymena-born actor said it was his first time there.

“I filmed a lot [in the Republic] years and years ago – it is a beautiful place, but never here. It is cold but very exciting – it’s great to be a part of it.”

Remaining tight-lipped about the film’s storyline, he said all he could tell us was that it’s a “comedy about a family”.

“I don’t think I can say any more ... But today,

we know two people are walking along, and I am getting in the water later, so it’s gonna be a cold day,” he laughed.

A chilly David Wilmot was wrapped up in a duffel jacket and hair clip in

www.

Continued from Page 17

All of your latest All of your latest local news, sport, local news, sport, features and features and pictures are now pictures are now just a click away just a click away

14 February 2013 Gazette 19

Gazette

STYLE health: kbm dental service

Awear €50

Look after one of your most valuable assets – your teeth

Miss Selfridge TBA

Awear €55

Marks and Spencer €40

MONO CHROME Celebrities like Beautiful Creatures star Emmy Rossum, Homeland’s Clare Danes and reality superstar Kim Kardashian, to name just a few, are all rocking out the monochrome look that is about to take over our wardrobes (again!) So this week, Gazette Style has found some great looks to show our readers just how good you can look in black and white, without any worries of looking like that 1980s character from Beetlejuice or that zebra out of Madagascar!

Heatons €20

Penneys €20

“Your health is your wealth” is a very wise old saying, but one of the results of Ireland’s economic woes has been that many people cannot afford to look after their most valuable asset – their health.

Most people don’t realise that there is a proven link between a person’s dental health and their general health. Problems with your teeth or gums can cause serious auto-immunisation diseases of the joints, kidney and heart. Statistics reveal up to half of the children in Ireland have tooth decay by the age of five, but public dental screening service does not start until a child is at least seven.

Baby teeth play an impor-

tant role in helping adult jaws and teeth develop into the right position. If lost early, it can create problems in how the adult teeth align.

KBM Dental is helping to drive down dental costs for Irish people. KBM Dental can offer your child a dental check up for €25 (if you mention this article) which includes a gentle exam of the child’s teeth, oral tissues, and jaws.

The centre also offers root canal treatments and tooth whitening. For more info email kbmdental.grange@ gmail.com or call the clinic at Grange Road Retail park, Rathfarnham on 4957 844.

Centres also located at Tallaght and Skerries.

Gazette

20 gazette 14 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

review: Jessica chastain single-handedly brings down osama bin laden

Zero to complain about I AM not a man who believes that films, or any entertainment media, need to be scrutinised for political stance, gender representations or any other societal concerns.

Yes, there are some artists who like to pepper their work with their beliefs and opinions, but more often than not, they recognise that their first priority is to entertain.

W hich is why I believe that Girls is just a very funny sit-com and not a building block of

 Paul Hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

modern feminism and that maybe it’s okay to enjoy The Impossible without worrying about the colour of the leading family.

Which brings us to Zero Dark Thirty, another film which has become more than a film.

It has become a debat-

ing point in a US presidential election, a source of investigation by both the CIA and Department of Homeland Security (who both found that the film makers had not been given access to classified information) and the basis of an argument over the use of torture in war.

Personally, I don’t really care about any of that.

Yes, I believe that torture is abhorrent and the US needs to look at its own rules of engagement, but was I thinking about that during the muchdiscussed scenes in Zero Dark Thirty? Honestly, no.

Maybe I am missing the point and the film is designed to make you discuss and debate these things, but personally I watch feature films to be entertained, to be told a story.

I believe that documentaries do a better job of raising big issues and that researching a topic is much more valuable than basing an ideological position on what Kathryn Bigelow portrays on film.

The fact that it has been buried under all that argument has detracted from the fact that what we do have here is a very, very good film.

Based loosely on the story of the USA’s attempts to hunt down Osama Bin Laden, Zero Dark Thirty is Bigelow’s follow up to her Oscarwinning war film, The Hurt Locker.

Where that film looked at modern warfare and modern warriors, Zero Dark looks at what it took to get the information on where Bin Laden was hiding acted upon.

Reteaming with Hurt Locker writer Mark Boal, Bigelow is in control from the off here, keeping a short leash on the audience, all false trails and slow sequences.

While the film is the subject of much debate about its politics, it actually doesn’t have any.

No political discussion is given to what to do with the intel at the spooks hands, merely that they must act on it.

Whereas most films about spying show the

Jessica Chastain: saving the world while being fabulous

Film of the Week: Zero Dark Thirty h h h h h (15) 157 mins Director: Kathryn Bigelow Starring: Jessica Chastain, Kyle Chandler, Jason Clarke, Chris Pratt, James Gandolfini

OUR VERDICT: DON’T take it as gospel, don’t get bogged down in its political stances and don’t pay attention to accuracy. Do those three things and you will find an excellent film, a tense thriller and some breathtaking performances. Chastain should find herself an Oscar winner later this month, as her Maya fights to make herself equal in a man’s world. Which is odd because, on current form, she has no equal as an actress.

rock star elements of the job, Zero Dark Thirty shows the grinding boredom and repetition that is involved in gathering

intel.

Not to say that the film is harmed for it by any stretch.

The whole thing is tied

together so tightly that it is strengthened by the slower moments.

But, really, this is Jessica Chastain’s show and she revels in it.

Given the most freedom of her career by a director who clearly trusts her implicitly, she moves the story on with a frenzied energy and an immediacy that is perfectly measured.

After announcing her arrival over the last three years, this marks her as a true Hollywood star.

14 February 2013 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

GAMING DEAD SPACE 3: A HORRIBLY ENTERTAINING ADDITION

BYTES&PIECES BYTES

Sequel is quite a blast SOMEONE once wrote that the problem with horror is that if you write about, say, someone opening a door and finding a nine-foot-tall bug outside, the reader thinks: “Ah, how horrible!”

However, at the same time, they’re also thinking: “Well, at least it wasn’t a 10-foot-tall bug.”

The point is that no matter what you create and deliver, there’s always a law of diminishing returns to overcome when factoring in reader familiarity and expectation with horror, and horror tropes.

This has been the problem with the horribly good (and definitely adult-rated) Dead Space franchise, in that each episode, to date, has been a smash hit in blending psychological horror with action in a sci-fi setting, yet, in doing so, has been reinforcing gamers’ expectations with what to expect in each game.

For “newbies” to the series, and as a quick recap, following his (mis)

EVEN MORE SKYLANDERS

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@gazettegroup.com

adventures in Dead Space aboard the Ishimura, a giant mining spaceship, unlucky engineer Isaac Clarke found himself hot on the heels of the ship’s Unitologist members – a single-minded cult who, having dug up an alien Marker on another world, led to the deaths of everyone on the Ishimura, including his girlfriend.

Later, Dead Space 2 saw Clarke escaping the Unitologists’ clutches aboard The Sprawl – a vast city complex in space also brought to ruin by the cult, and by the Marker’s strange powers – namely, not just to make most people hallucinate and eventually go crazy, but also to pretty effectively mutate and zombify them in pretty dangerous and grotesque ways.

LAND YOURSELF IN A DREAMY SETTING Proteus is a fine example of a “wander-em-up”

The galaxy’s unluckiest engineer, Isaac Clarke (inset, above), finds himself jetting into another awful – in the best sense – adventure in Dead Space 3

Now, Dead Space 3 (DS3) sees Clarke return, determined to put an end to the Marker, and Unitology, once and for all, using his engineer skills (as in the prequels) to turn whatever he finds on his journey to deadly use, whether that’s machinery or, more often, upgrading mining equipment, raw materials and gear into deadly weapons.

He’ll need them, too, as Clarke faces an awful lot of determined human Unitologists, hideously mutated Necromorphs (um, space zombies), and more, not to mention the natural dangers of a number of fantastical and otherworldly settings, all the while as he deals with other characters and their motivations, some helpful but others not ...

PARENTS everywhere will join my nephews in rejoicing with the news that the next Skylanders game has just been announced, and is due out some time this year.

Skylanders Swap Force will bring oodles of new characters to the hit series, with interchangeable top and bottom halves to create even more

While purists may disagree with DS3’s increased emphasis on action – not to mention the dreaded words, “computer-controlled partner” for some sections, which carries all sorts of negative connotations for many gamers – it’s a fair enough development for the popular franchise.

There’s still an awful lot of interesting gameplay, great locales, creative setpieces (has anyone tired of Zero-G sequences yet?) and engaging aspects to make DS3 a blast upon its recent multiplatform release (where, as always, prices vary in shops).

All in all, despite being a step away from the more rarified horror of its prequels, DS3 is a gaming highlight for 2013.

gaming fun.

A new Swap Force peripheral will also be released, to facilitate the new characters, while existing characters can also join in with the next game.

Parents (and hard-pressed uncles) can look forward to tiny pleas of “I just want one more Skylanders, just one!” some time in 2013 ...

I MEANT to get around to this PC title sooner – oh well, better late than never, right? Regular readers may note that I’m rather fond of open world “sandbox” games, and Proteus is a creative addition to this niche genre.

Available for €8.99 through Steam, the digital distribution channel, Proteus is an interesting wander-em-up, more experience than game, which sees the player wander through a randomly created island, yet one which, upon each iteration, hosts a number of common features.

By wandering around, different audio soundscapes are triggered, depending on the location and surroundings, and even by the seasons, as it’s possible – and part of Proteus’ charm – to cycle the island through a year.

There’s no goal, no missions, no side quests – just you, the land, odd creatures and sights – but that’s all. Steering away from the “Videogames as art” argument, it’s also worth noting that Proteus’ visually simplistic, yet creatively striking graphics are also memorable, helping to generate an aimless landscape that yet rewards repeat visits.

Gazette

22 Gazette 14 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

MUSIC

Little Green Cars are in the frame for much success this year

Cars geared for 2013 IT’s easy to fall in love with you.

So goes the refrain from The John Wayne, the lead single from Little Green Cars Nell Harper EP. The lifting melodies and insanely catchy chorus have made the song a constant feature on Irish radio in recent months, but the sentiment can be as easily applied to the young band, who hail from across Dublin’s southside.

A five-piece whose combined age barely makes a century, Little Green Cars are the most hyped band in Ireland at the moment and, unlike many recent most hyped bands, Little Green Cars are

 Paul Hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

totally worth every last superlative.

The Harper Lee EP brims with a confidence and assuredness that isn’t evident in most bands with twice the experience.

T he five-par t harmonies are mostly anchored around leads from Stevie Appleby and Faye O’Rourke and Faye says that the band’s current success can be a bit odd at times.

“It has been surreal at times. But I’ve never

been the kind of person who has thought too much about the future.

“I’m doing music now, going to keep doing it til I’m not.”

Typical of the Irish music scene, there have been detractors wishing to take shots at the band, with much of the criticism aimed at their collective youth, but getting to their current status, signed to Island Records in the UK and Glassnote, home of Mumford and Sons, in the US, has taken some doing.

“It’s been an arduous process to get where we are. We had a lot of labels coming over to watch us before we were signed.

“We wanted to make

music as freely available as possible.

“We are really lucky, lots of labels weren’t the right fit, but now we have a phenomenal team of people around us.

“It’s not about hype or quick releases, it’s about making sustainable careers.”

While Faye recognises that occassionally their age is mentioned, once you get down to brass tacks, all that matters is the music.

“You want people to take you seriously and get past our ages.

“But we’re making mature music at a young age, or so I’m told!

“It can be a bit strange because when you’re working at your own

pace for so long you then have to get used to --------------------------

‘It’s not about hype or quick releases, it’s about making sustainable careers’

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

hitting deadlines.”

The band are due to follow up The Harper Lee EP with the release of their debut album Absolute Zero in April.

Produced by Markus Dravs (Mumford and Sons’ Sigh No More and Babel, Arcade Fire’s Neon Bible and T he Suburbs, Coldplay’s Mylo Xyloto), the

album is as anticipated as any other this year, with Faye saying that working with Dravs was a dream.

“When we were asked who we’d like to work with on the album, Markus was a dream producer, the Maccabees Wall of Arms is one of my favourite albums, so when he showed interest, that was really surreal.

“It was great because he wanted to capture what we’d done, not change it too much.

“So we worked with him for four months straight in an isolated farmhouse in the English countryside.

“The album might make people turn their heads.

“I think people will be

intrigued.”

With a slot on US mega-festival Coachella to come in April, a soldout gig in Dublin’s Button Factory on the slate and a place on the BBC’s sound of 2013 list, the next 12 months are set to belong to Little Green Cars, not that Faye is making any plans.

“I’ve never been someone who plans that far ahead.

“We’re really happy with what we’ve done.

Wherever that takes us, it takes us.

“Whether what we’ve recorded connects with three, 10, 50 or 100 people or more, then that’s great.”

Something tells me it will be a lot more than that.

14 February 2013 swords gazette 23

kia: a more engaging driving experience than its predecessor

Sportswagon brings style and sophistication n Cormac Curtis

OK, so I’m about to turn 40 – that does not mean I’m getting old, practical, settled or boring, but I do have a lot more time for estate cars than I used to.

But there is no reason to dismiss these motors in the way we traditionally have done.

Take for instance the Kia cee’d sportswagon.

It went on sale in Ireland last October, and I for one started to notice it straight away.

Naturally, it has been put together with all of Kia’s current design queues in mind – the distinctive front grille, the upswept headlight clusters and body contours all combining to give the car real modern appeal.

The Sportswagon is the latest addition to the cee’d range – following the introduction of the five-door that was

launched in May. This is a more sophisticated, more efficient, and more refined car and it delivers a more engaging driving experience than its predecessor There are no surprises with the interior – quality materials, top-notch build quality, clean lines and very comfortable seats.

While offering the same range of engines, transmissions and running gear as the cee’d five-door hatchback, the cee’d Sportswagon offers increased passenger and cargo space, with enhanced practicality.

With a new roof, side panels, rear doors and tailgate, the Sportswagon is 195mm longer (4,505 mm) and 15mm taller (1,485mm), while the 2,650mm wheelbase, one of the longest in the C-segment, is common to all cee’d variants. When open, the new tailgate

The Sportswagon is the latest addition to the cee’d range

rises to 1,888mm to allow easy, unimpeded access to the cargo bay.

And while all the extra bits and pieces sound impressive and look the part – I must admit that rear visibility was just that little bit too obscured for my liking. You can certainly get used to it, but given the terrific view looking forward, it was just a pity they couldn’t have squeezed a few more inches of glass in the aft section.

In terms of cargo, the capacity is 39% greater than the cee’d fivedoor hatchback (528 litres compared to 380 litres) with the rear seats upright and 25% greater with the rear seats folded and the cargo bay loaded to the roof (1,642 litres compared to 1,318 litres). The higher roofline ensures that headroom is increased, by 21mm (front) and by 2mm (rear).

The model line for new

cee’d in Ireland will comprise two trim and engine choices. Trim levels comprise entry level TX and EX - both will be available in 1.4 and 1.6 diesel.

Standard on all models are ESP (electronic stability program), ABS (antilock braking system), BAS (emergency brake assist system), HAC (hill assist control) to prevent roll-back, VSM (vehicle stability management) and ESS (emergency stop signal).

Gazette

MOTORS

road

NOISE

Volkswagen claims number 1 spot for January

Volkswagen Ireland were the topselling passenger car brand in Ireland in January according to figures from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), claiming the No 1 position with 2,137 registrations, a market share of 12.37%.

Commenting, Paul Burke, operations director for Volkswagen Ireland said: “We are delighted with the strong start to 2013, which continues the momentum from

last year. The level of interest in all our model range plus our 3 Offer is very strong.

In addition, the new Golf has been in huge demand since launch and we expect sales to increase further as supply improves. At the moment we are selling every car we can get our hands on.”

Volkswagen Ireland’s strong performance is against the backdrop of an overall motoring industry that year to date is 18.54% down on 2012.

The new Golf has been in huge demand

Gazette

24 swords gazette 14 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

fast

TRAVEL Take a trip of a lifetime to Beijing and Shanghai If this is your year to treat yourself to the trip of a lifetime, Travel Department could have the perfect escape with a trip to Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai.

Depart April 5 from Dublin to Beijing and return from Shanghai to Dublin with British Airways (via London Heathrow).

Spend five nights at the five-star Legendale Hotel in Beijing on a B&B basis and during your stay, enjoy excursions to The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall of China and Beijing Zoo, among other places.

You will spend three nights at the five-star Howard Johnson Ginwa Plaza Hotel at Xi’an before spending two nights at the five-star Radisson Pudong Century Park Hotel in Shanghai.

Excursions in both Xi’an and Shangai are also included.

Evening meals are included every night in each city.

Alternative dates are available including April 18, 23 and May 2 (prices may vary). Priced from €2,099. Visit www. traveldepartment.ie or call 01 6371600.

TRAVEL

northern ireland: derry~londonderry celebrates its 2013 city of culture win

Walk through history along the walls of ancient Derry  Dave Phillips

You can’t mention the winner of the 2013 City of Culture award without being made aware of its complex history of divide.

Popularly and historically Derry, but since 1613 officially Londonderry, the name undoubtedly induced palpitations in the City of Culture marketing team, who settled on a tilde between the contentious titles to make Derry~Londonderry the focus of this inaugural year.

A year long series of events began in January with the Sons and Daughters Concert which brought home an eclectic collection of performers including Snow Patrol, Phil Coulter and The Undertones. In the coming months, the city

will host the world GAA congress, an Irish language festival, the Fleadh Ceoil, and the Turner Prize alongside many smaller festivals and events, giving Dubliners ample opportunities to make the three-hour trip north for an overnight or weekend stay.

One of the first things you should do is take a walking tour of Derry’s walls, which have enveloped the city centre for 400 years. Martin McCrossan, a local man who first started up the tours over two decades ago, provides an excellent commentary on the city through the ages.

An hour walking the walls will take you from the establishment of the 6th century monastery of Colmcille, through the Siege of Derry and the

formation of the Apprentice Boys, to Bloody Sunday and the peace and reconciliation work that eventually followed for the community.

From the vantage point of the walls, you can look out over the collection of murals that have become well-known symbols of sectarianism. Some of the murals have changed over time to reflect the change from violence to peace.

The turbulent history of Derry is one that nobody is afraid to shy away from, let alone attempt to forget. The great split in this community and its subsequent repair is part and parcel of a unique cultural identity; and the walking tours and museums dedicated to what has become known as The Troubles have become some of the most popular attractions for visitors.

Staying at a hotel within the walls of the

The Foyle, traditionally a natural border between the Catholic and Protestant communities, can now be crossed via the recently erected Peace Bridge

A walking tour of Derry’s walls, which have enveloped the city centre for 400 years, comes highly recommended. Pictures: Gavan Donnelly

city is recommended, as so much is accessible on foot. The Tower Hotel is a great central spot as you’ll have everything just a short stroll away.

Derry is full of little streets, arches and alleyways, so there are a lot of nooks and crannies to explore – one of the highlights is the Craft Village, a quiet collection of shops and cafes where you can pick up some unique jewellery or gifts. There’s also a great live music

scene in the evenings, with lots of pubs hosting bands. Aside from the Fleadh Ceoil, which is set to make its first border crossing and draw up to 300,000 people to the city in August, there’s also a Hidden Voices festival, and BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend festival on the cards for 2013.

Many of the 2013 City of Culture events are taking place in The Venue, a temporary arena located at Ebrington Square on

What to do and Where to stay

Derry~Londonderry is a 2013 City of Culture

 A full list of events taking place

 Rooms are available at the Tower

in Derry~Londonderry during 2013

Hotel, Derry, from £59 at www.

is available at www.cityofcul-

towerhotelderry.com

ture2013.com.

 Tours cost £4 from

www.derrycitytours.com

the banks of the river Foyle, in what was once a British Army base. The symbolic relevance of this is not coincidental.

The Foyle, traditionally a natural border between the Catholic and Protestant communities, can now be crossed on the recently erected Peace Bridge, a massive monument to progress that gently twists and turns across the river.

It’s only when walking on this new ground that the rationale of bridging the name Derr y~Londonderr y with a tilde becomes obvious. There’s a palpable sense of pride in the city and a whole list of reasons to visit.

14 February 2013 SWORDS gazette 25

No 4 Oak Glen Park, Southern Cross Road, in Bray is a four-bedroom house on the market for €420,000

Home with unique style and warmth

Sherry Fitzgerald in Bray are bringing No 4 Oak Glen Park, Southern Cross Road, in the town to the market for the price of €420,000.

This four-bedroom home has been well maintained and extended and upgraded over the years, meaning that the house has a unique warmth and style.

On entering, the hallway is indicative of the pristine accommodation to follow. The heart of this home is the open plan kitchen/family/dining room, which has been extended in recent years.

Flooded with natural light from the various Velux windows in the high vaulted ceiling, it is the perfect area for relaxing and dining. Double doors bring you through to a study or playroom

which in turn brings you through to the living room at the front which has a lovely box bay window.

A separate utility located off the hallway is ideal for hiding all evidence of mundane household chores!

A guest wc completes the downstairs accommodation.

Upstairs there are four bedrooms: two singles and two doubles. Three of the bedrooms have fitted wardrobes and the fourth bedroom has fitted shelving and storage.

Master bedroom

The master bedroom is en suite. A hotpress and family bathroom complete the accommodation on this level. A further stairs will bring you up to the converted attic. This

space has been cleverly converted to provide a very bright and spacious room.

The property has a cobblelock drive to the front of the house which provides off-street parking. It has a wooden gate to the side, giving access to the rear garden, which is laid out with Indian sandstone paving and is the perfect haven for al fresco dining in summer months. The rear garden is bordered with plants and shrubs, and a Barna shed provides outside storage.

Oak Glen Park is only moments from the N11/ M50, providing quick and easy access to both the city centre and the sunny south east. A bus at the end of the road will bring you to the Luas or the DART. Bray

town itself has a charming beach and seafront promenade that appeals all year round. An excellent choice of pubs, restaurants and coffee shops are along the main street and seafront. There is an excellent choice of both primary and secondary schools close by.

Oak Glen Park is a very popular development on the Southern Cross Road and has always proved popular with both young and old alike, and this is a home of the highest standard providing spacious living accommodation ideal for a growing family.

For more information and to arrange an appointment to view, contact Joan O’Hanlon at Sherry Fitzgferald, Bray on 01 286 6630, or email bray@sherryfitz.ie

The cleverly converted attic space

The open plan kitchen/family/dining room is flooded with natural light

Gazette

HOMES

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 14 February 2013

SWORDSCLASSIFIEDS

ADVICE

GUITAR

COURSES STARTING FEBRUARY 2013 INFORM FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

JANE O’BRIEN

086 895 7883 BUILDERS BRICK,BLOCK AND STONEWORK

GRAFFITI

GRAFFITI REMOVAL

20 years experience, living locally.

Garden walls, sheds, brick piers, patio & paving. Decorative internal brick work, Plastering, Concrete Drives and paths.

New Builds.

Insurance quotes.

Call Dave anytime 0872917647

DVD SERVICES

DVD TRANSFERS Cinefilms,Photos and Slides transferred to DVD with Music and Titles added. Camcorder and Videotapes edited and transferred to DVD. Phone 01-2807838 Mobile 087-9132265 Email: alleventsvideo@eircom.net

(Beginners to Late Intermediate)

• Experienced teacher will

design the best learning plan for you or your child!

• Learn your favourite songs!

• Play melodies and chords • Will travel to your home in Dublin 4, 6, 6W and 8 • References available

CONTACT: Nick @ 086 8805518 or Email: kluzeknick@hotmail.com

WE HAVE 135,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240 CARPENTRY

PLUMBERS JT PLUMBING

BEST PRICES IN DUBLIN!!

All areas covered. 15 years experience. Free estimates.

OUTSIDE TAP SUPPLIED & FITTED €70 Water Tanks, Drippings Taps, Radiators, Burst pipes, Cylinders, Pumps, Outside Taps, Showers, Immersions, Bathroom Suites.

For your free estimate call now on 085 7555412 or email: mjrules44@gmail.com

SPORT

Doors, floors, stairs, fitted units, kitchens, decking.

Painting, papering, tiling, Insulation, Soundproofing Works To Walls, Floors, Ceiling. Roof repairs, property maintenance & renovations. Est: 1990.

Member of N.G.O.M.C www.comiskeydecorating andcarpentry.com Andrew Comiskey 086 2742869/ 01 8251315

FLOORING

Why advertise with the Gazette?

Let our advertisers tell you why:

;lYc`e YXj\[ jXc\j fggfikle`kp J\m\iXc e\n k\Xd d\dY\ij Xi\ Y\`e^ jfl^_k kf \ogXe[ Xe \o`jk`e^ ]`\c[ jXc\j k\Xd f]]\i`e^ Zfejld\ij X j`dgc\ Xe[ \]]\Zk`m\ nXp f] dXeX^`e^ k_\`i lk`c`kp Y`ccj% K_\ ifc\ Zfd\j n`k_ ]lcc kiX`e`e^# X ^\e\iflj YXj`Z Xe[ leZXgg\[ Zfdd`jj`fe Xj n\cc Xj dXep fk_\i Y\e\]`kj%

@] pfl n`j_ kf Y\ Zfej`[\i\[ ]fi Xe `ek\im`\n gc\Xj\ j\e[ X Zfgp f] pfli :M Xe[ Zfm\i`e^ c\kk\i kf Zfc`e7ZZZfejlckXekj%\l%Zfd

Trabolgan Holiday Village, Cork have used the Dublin Gazette Newspapers for the last few years to advertise various aspects of our holiday village including special offers. We have always had an excellent reader response from the advertisements run and have found the area’s covered by all 8 papers of great value to Trabolgan. The help and guidance we have received from the staff has made it easier for us to communicate our message efficiently and cost effectively ensuring we get the maximum from our budget. We would have no hesitation in recommending the Gazette to any business.

“

EMPLOYMENT

B E C A U S E L O C A L M AT T E R S

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

gazette group .com

USING THE 3 WAY APPROACH: • IMAGE • BEHAVIOUR • CONFIDENCE

GUITAR LESSONS AVAILABLE!

www.

EXPERIENCED LECTURER OFFERING AN 8 WEEK COURSE ON HOW TO SUCCEED WITH THE PRACTICALITIES OF DATING

ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZETTE CALL 60 10 240

All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

14 February 2013 SWORDS Gazette 27

cycling P28

asdfsdaf gaelic games P27 P31

dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community



Gazette

sailing P28

FastSport iosagain star wins Leinster title: COLAISTE

James McGee and Sam Barry celebrate their doubles victory over Marek Marksoo and Vladimir Ivanov in the Davis Cup

tennis: castleknock man aces estonia test in riverview showdown last week

McGee power play critical as Ireland win dramatic Cup tie CASTLEKNOCK man James McGee cut a dramatic figure last week in Riverview following his and Sam Barry’s epic doubles victory over Estonia’s Marek Marksoo and Vladimir Ivanov in the third leg of their Davis Cup tie.

It ultimately proved the vital match as the two countries shared the four singles rubbers on the Friday and Sunday. Sandwiched in between, the doubles was the epitome of the competition’s attraction, running the gamut of emotions in front of an enlivened capacity crowd at the Clonskea venue.

Initially, it looked plain sailing as Barry played a blinder in the first set while McGee’s two bludgeoned returns forced the key break in the final game, making it 6-4.

The second set followed, 6-3, but the pendulum swung against them as they were unable to break again for another 25 games. Marksoo, without a world ranking but a current University of Sacramento tennis scholar, looked all at sea in the opening sets but suddenly found a lightness of foot and deftness of touch around the net to become the key player,

pulling off a string of sharp volleys.

Indeed, Estonia were claiming the big points and raced to the next two sets, both 6-3, to send the rubber to a deciding fifth. Again, Estonia looked to be cruising after an early break of the McGee serve and they extended the lead out to 5-2.

McGee did hold to keep the tie alive before, on Ivanov’s serve, Estonia earned two match points, one of which Barry produced a stunning forehand winner down the line to survive once more.

Those saves got the crowd going and their chants of “break, break, break” grew

louder when Marksoo overhit a volley, bringing Ireland back to 5-4. Barry held and parity remained up to 7-7.

When the crucial break came, McGee let out a primal roar, leaving him with the chance to serve out the match.

Two heavy second serves got him to match point and he saw it home with an emphatic ace.

A day later Barry, completed the job with a singles success, 3-2 overall and earning Ireland a date with Finland in round two of the Euro Africa section of the draw.

Iosagain’s Siofra Cleirigh Buttner continued her winning streak as she claimed the Aviva Leinster Schools’ Cross Country Championships in Santry Demesne last week.

Cleirigh Buttner won the senior girls race, detaching herself and Linda Conroy from the field by the final lap as both athletes entered the finishing straight. Buttner made the decisive break to win the title.

Mount Anville’s Ella Fennelly showed a clean pair of heels to the rest of the intermediate girls field as she strode to an impressive victory. Isabelle Odlum (Rathdown School) and Isabel Carron (Skerries CC) finished second and third respectively.

c o n ta c t s Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@gazettegroup.com

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

Gazette

28 SWORDS Gazette 14 February 2013

SPORT

FastSport leinster call for trio from adamstown: ADAMSTOWN trio Hammas Habi, Hannan Mann and Ali Elahi have all been included in the South Leinster training squad for winter cricket coaching sessions currently being held at North County Cricket Club.

Six sessions between now and Easter will give the players an opportunity to further their skills and gain selection onto this summer’s Leinster U-17 squad.

As well as playing in this year’s interprovincial series, games have also been arranged against Australian schools – St Patrick’s, Sydney and St Peter’s College, Adelaide.

Added to the programme this year will be two South Leinster versus North Leinster fixtures due to take place on July 24 and 26 at Kilgobbet Park in Cabinteely.

Phoenix’s Thomas Anders, Eoin Cleere and Adam Chester have been named in the North Leinster selection.

sailing: strong local contingent up for annual national awards

Murphy heads ISA nominees  sport@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL sailors abounded among the 25 nominees in contention for the Irish Sailing Association’s six prestigious annual awards including the premier accolade of the Irish sailing community; the ISA Sailing Achievement of the Year award.

The awards will be presented at the ISA seventh annual awards ball in the Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire on March 2 as hundreds of members and supporters of the Irish sailing community come together.

2012 was an incredibly successful year for Irish sailing as 11 sailors competed at the London Olympic and Paralym-

pic Games and dozens of medals were claimed at events around the world. This has been represented in the calibre of nominees.

The female star of Irish sailing, Rathfarnham’s Annalise Murphy, will go head-to-head against two other outstanding nominees for Sailing Achievement of the Year, kindly supported by BHP Insurance.

Fellow Oly mpians Peter O’Leary and Malahide’s David Burrows earned their nod when they won gold at the preOlympic Sail for Gold regatta which took place less than two months before the Games at the Olympic venue in Weymouth.

But both contenders

will face stiff competition from the third nominee; offshore sailor Damian Foxall who was Watch Captain on Groupama, winner of the 2011-2012 Volvo Ocean Yacht Race.

New to this year’s awards is the collaboration between the ISA and Mitsubishi Motors for the ISA Mitsubishi Motors Club of the Year Award. This award will be presented to the club that has significantly developed in raising the profile of the sport, improved safety standards and developed initiatives to grow membership and community inclusion.

Amongst the nominees is the Royal St George Yacht Club which wel-

Annalise Murphy is among the nominees for Irish Sailing Achievement of the Year

comed 350 youth sailors from 63 nations to Dun Laoghaire last July as they hosted the Youth World Sailing Championships along with three other Dun Laoghaire clubs. They are up against UC D S a i l i n g C l u b who won the student yachting world cup last November and Wicklow Sailing Club who hosted the 17th Round Ireland Yacht Race during the summer.

Paving the way for future Olympic successes are the incredibly talented youth sailors who are rising through the ranks of the ISA Olympic Pathway Programme.

Among them is Laser Radial sailor Finn Lynch, from the National Yacht Club, who claimed silver at the Youth World Sailing Championships last summer giving Ireland its best ever result at the championship.

0He has been nominated in the category of Youth Sailor of the Year, supported by Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company, along with Sarah Eames from Co Down, Dougie Power from Co Waterford and Harry Whitaker from Co Cork. Other awards on the night include Volunteer of the Year, Instructor of the Year and Training Centre of the Year.

Ryan hoping to add to world championships medal haul  sport@gazettegroup.com

Garda cycling club’s Caroline Ryan

GARDA cycling club’s Caroline Ryan has been named in Cycling Ireland’s world championship team as the country has qualified for a record six events.

She has been named in the three-person selection for the event which takes place in Minsk from February 20-24.

She is joined in the side by Skerries-based Martyn Irvine and Eoin Mullen as they finalise their preparation for the World Championships having qualified through the World Cup series.

Olympian Irvine will race the individual pursuit and the scratch race, events in which he took a silver medal at the World Cup in Glasgow last December.

In the colours of his new team, United Healthcare, Irvine is completing his preparation racing in France, before joining the rest of the team two weeks before the competition begins.

Ryan, who is the reigning bronze medallist in the points race, will be racing in the individual pursuit, the points race, and in the scratch race.

That was Ireland’s first medal

at a senior track cycling world championship since Harry Reynolds took gold in 1896 and bronze in 1897, a feat made even more incredible by the fact that cycling is the second sport at which she has competed internationally having previously rowed for the country.

Both Irvine and Ryan are aiming to place in the top five in the world in their events, which given recent results, is a realistic goal.

Mullen will be racing in his first senior world championship, and is competing in the sprint event.

“Mullen has been based in the

world training centre in Aigle for the past year, and his performances have been consistently improving.

Coach Brian Nugent said: “Eoin has created history by becoming the first sprint rider to qualify for the world championships. This in itself is a fantastic achievement, and it is great to see the new generation of cyclists coming through.

“With Ireland lining up in six events, this is the largest representation that we have had, and we will be on the hunt for another world medal.”

14 February 2013 SWORDS Gazette 29

Gazette

30 SWORDS gazette 14 February 2013

SPORT

FastSport

Matt Doherty part of strong Irish showing SWORDS man Matt Doherty was part of Noel King’s Republic of Ireland U-21 team that produced an impressive display to beat the Netherlands 3-0 in a friendly at Tallaght Stadium.

Millwall striker Aiden O’Brien marked his debut at this level with a first half double before Anthony Forde wrapped up the scoring with a second half spot-kick.

The Dutch gave the Irish defence plenty to think about early on and home keeper Aaron McCarey made a stunning save to keep out a misdirected header by defender Derrick Williams in the third minute and Dutch captain Alex Schalk hit the post with a deflected shot.

O’Brien gave Ireland the opener when he steered home from Forde’s cross in the tenth minute and might have made it two in the 22nd minute when he outstripped the Dutch defence but pulled his shot wide.

Forde was the provider once more for the second goal eight minutes before the break with a wide free-kick that Shane Duffy headed on and O’Brien swept to the net.

Wolves midfielder Forde wrapped up the scoring when he expertly fired home from a 57th-minute penalty to seal a memorable win after he was fouled by Stefano Denswil to earn the penalty.

Substitute keeper Sean McDermott made a late save to deny Joel Veltman as the home side held on for the victory.

The Irish U-21s had beaten Italy in their previous fixture and meet Portugal in another home friendly on March 25 while their opening competitive game in the next UEFA Championships qualifying tournament is away to the Faroe Islands on August 14.

Doherty, himself, has been on loan with Bury for much of the season, lining out 17 times before returning to Wolves for the second half of the current campaign where he had made four appearances since moving across the water from Bohemians.

rugby: three jenkinson cup titles in a row for swords

Swords produced an excellent comeback from eight points down to win the Jenkinson Cup

Butler points way for Swords jenkinson cup final Dundalk Swords  sport@gazettegroup.com

20 21

THE immortal lyrics of the late Dominic Behan’s Auld Triangle echoed through the corridors of Drogheda’s Shamrock lodge dressing rooms on Friday night as a victorious Swords First XV celebrated a 21-20 win over North Leinster rivals Dundalk in the Jenkinson Cup final.

They had to do it the hard way, though, recovering from a brace of early tries. Dundalk punished some over-zealous

Swords work 10 minutes in when a high kick from open play was sent into the 22 and the committed Dundalk tight head prop collected and crashed over for their first try.

From the subsequent kick off, a line break from Dundalk’s winger saw a well-worked score into the corner, extending the Louth men’s lead to 10-0.

The first signs of a Swords response came from the back of the superior scrum which saw Shane Walsh link up with first centre Niall Gamble to bust forward.

A clever, pre-rehearsed move from the back of the

jersey guardians Zebo Thunder-struck ahead of English game antoinette Thunder, from Balbriggan, was one of 23 lucky Irish rugby supporters lined out as official O2 Jersey Guardians for the Ireland Team ahead of the game against England at Aviva Stadium last weekend, taking care of Simon Zebo’s number 11 jersey.

Jersey Guardians gives supporters the chance to deliver the players’ jerseys to the Irish dressing room ahead of the game. She is pictured with former Irish international Mick Galwey.

scrum saw Shane O’Kelly ease in for Swords’ first try on the half hour mark.

With the shif t in momentum, the Swords pack began to dominate the breakdown, disrupting and stealing possession in the ruck. Their back line, meanwhile, began to play a more direct passing and offloading game.

It paid off when Juris Beikmanis chased down a long range defensive kick to score a fiercely contested second try which was subsequently converted

by Butler but a Dundalk penalty meant they shaded the half 13-12.

And they pushed fur-

ther ahead off the back of a clever box kick and chase, making it 20-12 against the run of play.

In the face of tough Friday night conditions, Swords David Gallagher and Shane Conaty’s kicking game pinned Dundalk, a platform from which Dundalk were able to make their forward superiority count.

The front five, headed up by David O’Reilly, Leo Price and Eoin O’Hobain, with Adrian McLoughlin and Stuart Lemont in the engine room, forced the sin-binning of both Dundalk’s number eight and out-half.

A converted try got them within two points with three minutes left on the clock as Swords’ big men edged forward towards the white wash with bruising crash balls from Fiachra Coll, Paul Orr, Paddy Jones and O’Reilly.

They inched closer and closer, getting Butler within range and he composed himself.

His drop goal handed Swords a narrow lead and they secured possession for the final play, allowing them to hold on for a dramatic third Jenkinson Cup win in as many years.

14 February 2013 SWORDS gazette 31

Gazette

Flynn’s movement key in Kerry victory  sport@gazettegroup.com

THE movement of Fingallians man Paul Flynn, Dublin’s only All Star for 2012, played a key role in their dominant 11 point victory over Kerry, with Jim Gavin’s men now making it two wins in two outings at the Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney on Sunday afternoon.

Fingal Ravens man Darren Daly extended his run in the first team playing half back line and his defensive awareness had a big impact on keeping the Kerry attacks at bay throughout the game.

Although the score line showed a very dominant performance from the Dubs, Gavin believed it could have been more on

the day had there been more of a stress put on scoring and shooting in the build up to the game.

“We have a lot of work to do on the training field on their shooting. The quality was questionable at times but I suppose from a coaching perspective at least we created those opportunities.

“But the Kerry defence

played quite well, they were tight on their guys, every time there was a shot going off there was pressure being put on so you have to give them credit as well.”

Dublin may have to make do without Connolly after he was taken from the field after sustaining an ankle injury when they take on Mayo..

Club Noticeboard fingalllians CONGRATULATIONS to the Dublin sen-

The interest shown has been phe-

ior hurlers on defeating Wexford 1-19

nomenal since it was announced that

to 0-16 in the final of the Walsh Cup.

Strictly Come Dancing is coming to

After last year’s success, the club

Fingallians, with both dancers and

are going all out to make our repre-

helpers getting in touch. If you’d like

sentation at this year’s Swords St

to dance, you need have absolutely

Patrick’s Day Parade even bigger. If

no experience of dancing; just some

you wish to help or have any ideas,

enthusiasm, willingness and a sense

please email fingallians@gmail.com

of fun. If interested in dancing or help-

The club will be hosting a first aid course this Saturday from 9am - 5pm.

football: fins women fly the flag in sky blue

ing, contact Oisin on 086 8516210 or strictly@fingallians.com

The cost will be €30 and a member of

Football championship diary dates:

each team must take part. For further

intermediate and senior first round

information and to confirm your place,

- on the weekend of April 13 and the

please contact sandraobrien67@

junior first round is June 16.

gmail.com.

The Irish conversation group runs

The club and Swords Credit Union

each Wednesday in the clubhouse at

are putting a list of businesses where

9pm. Suitable for all levels. Group are

a defibrillator is available. We would

now getting ready for Seachtain na

ask members who know of this facility

Gaeilge which runs from March 4 to 7.

to email the club on fingallians@gmail.

Good excuse to get involved. Tuilleadh

com or darren@swordscu.ie

eolais o Liam ag 086 3814422.

For one day only, we will have a club

Good luck to our neighbours Bally-

shop sale next Saturday, February 16

mum Kickhams who meet Dr Crokes in

from 10am to 12 noon. Sale includes kits

Semple Stadium next Saturday at 4pm

(socks/shorts/jersey) for €50.

in the All-Ireland club semi-final.

st finian’s

Denise McKenna scored Dublin’s first goal against Donegal last weekend. Picture: Peter Hickey/GAAPics.com

Injury-hit Jackies fall to Donegal loss nfl division one Dublin 2-7 Donegal 3-10  sport@gazettegroup.com

DESPITE not coming away with a win against Donegal at the weekend, Dublin ladies manager Paul Gilheaney will take some positives from the performances of a sizable Fingallians’ crew of Sinead Finnegan, Amy McGuinness and Denise McKenna who battled hard for the Sky Blues throughout the 60 minutes in Chanel College.

Hannah Tyrell’s entry to the game was some what shadowed by yet

another Dublin loss as 2011 All Star Elaine Kelly was forced from the field after sustaining an injury in the warm up, but the young Tower’s talent will be happy that she was first player that came to mind as replacement for the Dubs boss.

Kelly’s name only adds to the list of Dublin injuries coming off their opening league encounter with Meath the week before where the side lost the services of rising stars Orlagh Egan and Niamh McEvoy.

The fluidity in the side’s movement and distribution that was wit-

nessed in their opening league clash with Meath was absent on Parnell’s turf, as the lack of training and match fitness seemed to rear its head in the Dublin side who may still be having some growing pains with some fresh faces now added to the squad.

Donegal’s star forward Geraldine McLaughlin caused the majority of the trouble for the Dublin defence and she bagged 3-5 of the Donegal tally of 3-10 with 3-3 of the scores coming from play.

Dublin could only muster 2-7 for themselves

on the day falling to a six point deficit from their northern opposition.

Siobhan Woods led the scoring for the Jackies with 1-1, Sinead Aherne took 0-4 with 0-2 from frees, McKenna grabbed the side’s first goal and Lyndsay Davies and Amy Guinness took a point each.

Gilheaney’s side travel to Leinster rivals Laois next week where they will no doubt face a tough ask as the O’Moore County have already taken two wins in their opening two encounters in the league, seeing off Donegal and Tyrone.

THIS week it is the final countdown to

clean unwanted clothes, (in any condi-

the Mock Wedding. Tickets should have

tion), bedlinen, duvets, pillows, towels.

been booked and paid for at this stage

including bags, belts and soft toys.

and we are all looking forward to a

This has the potential to be a huge fun-

good day out next Saturday.

draiser with very little input so please

The ceremony starts at 5pm in Pea-

support. Please drop off bags to club-

cocks and afterward the reception

house at following times: Monday, Feb-

will be in the Regency Hotel.

ruary 25-Thursday, February 28 from

Fixtures for all teams are becoming available at present. All team fixtures can be seen in the league tables section of www.stfinians.com.

7.30-9pm and Saturday, March 2 from 11am-2pm.

The lotto jackpot was €8,900 and the numbers drawn were 9, 13, 16 and 18.

There will be a clothing collection on

There was no winner. The €50 Mock

Saturday, March 2 to raise fund for St

Wedding ticket winners were Joanne

Finian’s GAA Club. Please donate your

Marley and Andrea and Keith.

fingal ravens ALL mentors please note pitches are

bership forms are available on our

closed all this week. Well done to our

website www.fingalravens.com or

U-14s who beat St Olaf’s away on Sat-

at the clubhouse. As agreed at the

urday to make it two wins from two

AGM all members must have their

games.

membership paid in full by March 31.

Well done to Darren Daly and the

If any member would like to pay by

Dublin senior football team on a good

instalments they must have their last

win away in the league against Kerry

instalment paid by March 31.

on Sunday.

Only fully paid up members can

Juvenile presentation took place on

travel to Ventry in February for the

Sunday, well done to all our players of

Paidi O’Se tournament. In the Paidi

the year and most improved players

O’Se tournament our ladies team got

of the year, thank to Kettle’s Hotel and

Dunedin Connolly’s of Edinburgh in the

to Damian Flanagan, Ian Kavanagh and

junior ladies section and our senior

Martin Flanagan for making the pres-

mens team got Gracefield of Offaly in

entations.

the mens senior section.

We would like to wish a speedy recovery to Tom Daly.

2013 membership is now due; mem-

Please donate your unwanted/ unused handbags, they can be all shapes, sizes, colours and brands, it

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

Doherty delight: Swords native part of the Irish U-21 side that saw off the Netherlands 3-0 P30

febrUARY 14, 2013

davis cup doubles heroes: Ireland celebrate stunning win over Estonia visitors P27

Swords woman Lynne Cantwell, crouched in the centre of the picture, played a pivotal role in the Irish women’s rugby team’s first ever win over England Picture: Tony Bourke

Cantwell part of history After 17 successive defeats for Ireland, Swords woman Lynne Cantwell put in an excellent performance as England were defeated for the first time  peter carroll

sport@gazettegroup.com

SWORDS woman Lynne Cantwell played a huge role in what would turn out to be a historic day in Irish rugby, as the Irish women beat England for the first time in their history after 17 defeats on the bounce, in a onesided affair that finished 25-0.

The Irish cause was helped no end by the distribution of Cantwell and Nora Stapleton, but it was Alison Miller who took the headlines with her hat trick of tries that did the damage for the Irish against their fiercest rivals.

The first try came on the seventh minute

mark after Cantwell put Miller through to touch down, and despite Niamh Briggs not being able to put over the conversion, a Cantwell run forced another penalty which was well executed shortly after by Briggs to extend the lead.

Cantwell and Stapleton worked together in the build up to Miller’s final try to make it 20-0 and it was Briggs who finished off the scoring yet another try to close out an emphatic victory.

Emotional After the game Philip Doyle couldn’t hide his happiness with the result having invested a huge chunk of his life into the team.

“It’s very hard to keep your emotions intact at this great time,” said manager Philip Doyle. “I’ve been involved in women’s rugby for 20 years and it’s been 20 years of hard work.

“But, this is a very special bunch of girls, I’ve always said it about this group. This is just so memorable and their nil score is very nice too.”

Doyle spoke about the team effort that was on display, despite Miller’s hat trick.

“From the set pieces to the defence we worked so hard in preparation for this game.

This is what we have wanted for many years and we have been so close to the result in the past.

“We knew we were building and getting stronger. The whole squad was involved here, we are 30 strong and it took something from every single one of them to get a result out of a team like England who are ranked number one in the world.

“The coaches too have been unbelievable and I’m sure they’re very proud of what the team did out there today.

“This is the best day in the history of women’s rugby. Let’s just hope we can go on forward now because we’ve just gone to the next level as far as I’m concerned.

“We have to move on from here because there are bigger fish to fry in this championship.”